WhiteLibraTexas

Poetry (Refrain Poem): "C'est Toi Mon Grand Amour" by WhiteLibraTexas

2011-05-31T15:56:00.005-05:00

C'EST TOI MON GRAND AMOUR

(Pour anh LasanTaberd74)
C'est toi, tu es mon grand amour.
C'est toi, tu es mon meilleur ami.
C'est toi, tu es mon amour de ma vie.
C'est toi, amour veut tout sans nombre,
amour n’a point de loi.
C'est toi, je ne puis demeurer loin
de toi plus longtemps.
C'est toi, tu es mon grand amour...
C'est toi, merci de m'aimer
et je t’aime...
~WhiteLibraTexas~
05/31/2011

Here's to someone very special in my life, "C'est Toi Mon Grand Amour," my simple, refrain poem, but filled with much appreciation, respect, and affection, written just for you to celebrate friendship, life, love, and especially you. Yes, I'm especially celebrating you for being in existence and for being in my life.
"C'est Toi Mon Grand Amour" is the French version of the romantic and beautiful song "You Make Me Feel Brand New." This timeless love song was written in 1974 by Thom Bell and Linda Creed. Since its birth and up to this day, this song has become one the most requested songs for Valentine's days and wedding days because it celebrates love and lovers. I think ultimately your partners/spouses should forever be your lovers and should be cherished and honored like the first time or the beginning of our love. Only then, we can truly keep the romance unity candle burning 'til the end of time. :0)
This poem is being featured in the music clip "C'est Toi Mon Grand Amour," performed by Johnny Farago, and uploaded by me on my YouTube channel.
Although the French version is not the translation of the English version, I still like the French lyrics as much as the English lyrics. I featured both of these songs on my YouTube channel.
To watch the French version by Johnny Farago, click here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTQSbnm9LSY&feature=channel_video_title
To watch the English version by Simply Red, click here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwKpthlRVWU&feature=related

Poetry (Prose Poem): "Tuyết Rơi" (The Snow is Fallin') by WhiteLibraTexas [Vietnamese translation by nguyenquangy@gmail.com]

2011-05-25T16:20:00.005-05:00

Tuyết Rơi

Tuyết trắng rơi...
Giọt nước mắt ngà, tôi khóc.
Đêm chúng tôi vẫy chào tạm biệt ...
Linh hồn tôi, trái tim tôi lạc lối, chơi vơi...
Như chim lạc đàn trú thân trên cành cây băng giá
Tự hỏi lòng biết bao giờ tuyết mới thôi rơi?
Tình yêu nơi đâu? Quê hương là chốn nào?
Người là tình yêu cũng là Quê nhà...
Và tôi muốn về nhà ...
~WhiteLibraTexas~
(Vietnamese Translation by nguyenquangy@gmail.com)

Lấy cảm hứng từ "Tombe La Neige (Tuyết Rơi), rất xúc động của Adamo, tôi đã viết bài thơ văn xuôi này. ~WhiteLibraTexas~

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This prose poem was originally written in English by WhiteLibraTexas, titled "The Snow is Falling," which was posted on this blog in April of 2011. The poem is beautifully translated into Vietnamese, titled "Tuyết Rơi," by nguyenquangy@gmail.com

To view the original posting of the Vietnamese translation, click here: http://gocsan.blogspot.com/2011/04/normal-0-false-false-false_26.html

To watch the music clip "Tombe La Neige" by Adamo, click on the red title of this post or you may also click on the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRYud-ji_t8&feature=channel_video_title

Poetry (Prose Poem): "The Snow is Fallin' " by WhiteLibraTexas

2011-04-11T17:52:00.008-05:00

   The Snow is Fallin'


The snow is falling...

   With white tears, I'm crying.
   The night that we waved good-bye...
   My soul and heart went astray...
   Like a lost bird on a lonely, frozen branch
   Wondering when the snow would stop falling?
   Where is my love? Where is my home?
   You're my love, my home...
   And I want to go home...
   ~WhiteLibraTexas~
   04/11/2011

Inspired by Adamo's tear-jerker "Tombe La Neige (The Snow is Fallin')," I wrote this prose poem. To watch my music clip of "Tombe La Neige" on YouTube, click on the title of this posting in red text.

2011 Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami

2011-03-21T02:44:00.004-05:00

2011 Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami

On March 11th, 2011, at 2:47 p.m. local Japan time, a frightening temblor struck Japan, the biggest earthquake to hit Japan in 140 years, measured 9.0 on the Richter scale, according to the U.S. Geological Service. This great quake triggered a tsunami and left millions without food, water, power and shelter. The U.S. Geological Service officials have chosen the name "2011 Tōhoku Earthquake" for this monster quake. Tōhoku is a region located in the northern part of Honshu, the largest island of Japan. Tōhoku takes up the largest part shaken by the quake, approximately a 250-mile-long rupture area.

My heart goes out to you, Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun. I made a video clip to dedicate to Japan and to express many thanks to friends and volunteers across the globe for lending a helping hand to aid the devastating Japan. To watch this video clip, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ze7cUY4Q-_0&feature=channel_video_title

Here's another version of the dedication video clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RE7rPpKK8o&feature=channel_video_title

Let’s pray for Japan. Let’s send love and kindness to Japan by making your monetary donations. When giving, please beware of donation scams. Make your donation through those reputable charities/non-profit organizations, such as any of the followings:

https://american.redcross.org/site/Donation2?5052.donation=form1&df_id=50...

https://secure.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6617251/k.7E71/Dona...

https://secure.unicefusa.org/site/Donation2?df_id=9661&9661.donation=form1

http://www.worldvision.org/content.nsf/pages/japan-hea-2011-eappeal-pg4?open&...

https://www.mercycorps.org/donate/japan?source=55400&gclid=CPKG2vSq2KcCFd...

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Richter Magnitudes & Descriptions:

Less than 2.0 = Micro earthquakes, cannot be felt.
2.0-3.9 = Minor earthquakes, can be felt, but rarely cause damage.
4.0-4.9 = Light earthquakes, can shake indoor objects and cause some damage, but not significant.
5.0-5.9 = Moderate earthquakes, can cause considerable damage to poorly constructed homes & buildings, and minor damage to well-constructed ones.
6.0-6.9 = Strong earthquakes, can cause serious damage in areas up to 100 miles (160 kilometers).
7.0-7.9 = Major earthquakes, can cause serious damage in areas over 100 miles.
8.0-8.9 = Great earthquakes, can cause devastating damage in areas several hundred kilometers across.
9.0-9.9 = Great earthquakes, can cause devastating damage in areas several thousand kilometers across.
10.0+ = Massive earthquakes, can cause devastation to our planet! It has never been recorded. Let's pray it never will occur.

The Biggest Recorded Earthquake on Earth:
Where: Chile, named "The Great Chilean Earthquake (aka the 1960 Valdivia Earthquake)"
When: May 22nd, 1960
Time: @ 2:11 p.m. local Chile time
Magnitude: 9.5

(Info are based on U.S. Geological Survey documents)

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Dr. Charles Francis Richter

The Richter Magnitude Scale was created by an American seismologist and physicist, Charles Francis Richter [04/26/1900-09/30/1985] of the California Institute of Technology. The scale was developed in 1935 as a mathematical device to compare the size of earthquakes.

Did you know that major or even great earthquakes can occur beneath the oceans that may not even be felt by humans?

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as your source.

Poetry (Enjambment Poem): "Always & Forever" by Forever Young CT

2011-01-03T04:19:00.007-06:00

ALWAYS & FOREVER
(For anh Lasan Taberd74)

Always and forever, the love you give to me
Is as magical and beautiful as the rainbow I see
Always and forever, tender, selfless, and precious is your love
That I could never get enough of
Always and forever, you taught me the joy of giving
And that’s when my world starts living
Always and forever, seasons change, people change,
But our love remains unchanged
Always and forever, you shall have my heart
Since you got a hold on me right from the start
Always and forever, you and I, together we shall stay
'Cause true love shall never go astray
~Forever Young CT~
01/03/2011

Poetry (Carpe Diem Poem): "Oh! My Sweet Love, Oh! Mon Amour" by WhiteLibraTexas

2011-01-01T02:48:00.009-06:00

Oh! My sweet love, Oh! Mon amour

Oh! My sweet love

Oh! Mon amour

I need you today

I’m the flower that you so love

For today, the flower blooms most beautiful

Tomorrow it might die

Let’s live for today

Let tomorrow be its mystery

Love me this moment

Shower me with your love

Embrace me at sunrise,

Take me to paradise at sunset

Let's love as if there's no tomorrow

For you are the greatest love of my life

I want to love you each day

As if it’ll be the last day

of our existence here on earth...

Oh! Mon amour, j'ai besoin de toi maintenant!

~WhiteLibraTexas~

01/01/2011

Inspired by the beautiful lyrics and melody of the romantic French love song, "Oh! My Sweet Love [Oh! Mon Amour]," I wrote this Carpe Diem poem on New Year's Day. To watch my upload of this timeless love song, performed by Dalena and Don Ho, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pTQzZy6WF4

To watch my upload of Christophe's version, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUWRKhkxaGQ

Poetry (Limerick Poem): "A Forbidden Love Poem [L'amour Avec Toi]" by WhiteLibraTexas

2010-12-31T00:22:00.006-06:00

A Forbidden Love Poem

(L'amour Avec Toi)

My love, society and morality

Forbid us to live our reality

My love, I don't really care

Lovemaking's for us to share

Tonight, I'm yours, with geniality.

~WhiteLibraTexas~

I wrote this poem on 04/21/2010, inspired by the story behind "L'amour Avec Toi," a well-known love song of Michel Polnareff. I'm featuring this song on my YouTube channel, performed by Star Academy 6. To read more about this song and to watch this music clip, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GlLhc3GRuI

Poetry (Acrostic Poem, AKA Name Poem): "A Lifetime for You" by ScottRM60

2010-12-30T23:33:00.004-06:00

A Lifetime for You (aka White Libra)

(Contributed by ScottRM60)

Warmth is in your eyes

How I love those eyes

In me, you'll remain

Till the end of time

Endlessly it is

Love is in your heart

In your pretty smile

Because I love you

Right here, I'm waiting

A lifetime for you

-ScottRM60-

Vietnamese Composer: Khánh Băng

2010-12-30T22:26:00.003-06:00

Khanh Bang [1935-2005], another legendary songwriter in the history of Vietnamese music, art and entertainment, was born as Pham Van Minh, in Thang-Tam, Vung-Tau, Vietnam. Khanh Bang was considered to be the first musician to play an electric guitar on Vietnam stage, which was in the 60’s.

His pseudonym was derived from the first names of his two female childhood friends, “Khanh” and “Bang.” Khanh Bang started writing music since his elementary years. The musician himself couldn’t recall which was the first song that was written by him; however, “Vong Ngay Xanh,” which was written and released in 1956, brought his name to stardom. The famous French poet, Françoise Sagan, wrote the French version to this song.

Khanh Bang stopped writing music in the mid 90’s when he lost his eyesight to diabetes. According to his family members, in the morning of the Lunar New Year Day, Khanh Bang was still enjoying good foods, sharing good cheers and laughing with his loved ones. Later on that day, he was feeling fatigued and was just going to take a little rest; however, he never woke up. Khanh Bang passed away peacefully in the afternoon of Lunar New Year Day, 2005.

I like Mr. Khanh Bang’s upbeat melodies in most of his love songs--very youthful and lovely, such as Sau Dong, Tieng Mua Roi, Trang The, etc., just to name a few. I’m featuring one of his love songs on YouTube, titled "Neu Mot Ngay," performed by Kim Anh. This particular song is much mellower, with a slower beat, and it's a real tear-jerker, but I somehow like it very much.

Practically speaking, I've been living in the USA all my life, but I was born in a war-torn country, Vietnam, and was told many heart-broken stories derived from the war. I left Vietnam at a young age and so my memories of the Vietnam war is very vague. When I started listening to the songs that were written by our well-known songwriters prior to 1975, I formed my own opinion. And in my opinion, most of Vietnamese love songs, although very beautiful, are extremely sad and often about separation anxiety, pain, and sorrow caused by war (particularly during the Vietnam War, the period prior to 1975). They often give me that melancholy feeling. That is also the storyline of the featured song, “Neu Mot Ngay."

To watch my upload of this song, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WK58RsXa2Pc

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as your source.

From the Dalai Lama: Compassion

2010-12-22T10:39:00.000-06:00

Compassion

(Contributed by daulao)

Hatred, jealousy and excessive attachment cause suffering and agitation. I feel compassion can help us overcome these disturbances and let us return to a calm state of mind. Compassion is not just being kind to your friend. That involves attachment because it is based on expectation. Compassion is when you do something good without any expectations – based on realizing that “the other person is also just like me”.

From the Dalai Lama: Peace of Mind

2010-12-22T10:37:00.001-06:00

Peace of Mind

(Contributed by daulao)

When we speak of a calm state of mind or peace of mind, we shouldn't confuse that with an insensitive state of apathy. Having a calm or peaceful state of mind doesn't mean being spaced out or completely empty. Peace of mind or a calm state of mind is rooted in affection and compassion and is sensitive and responsive to others.

Poetry (Poetic Narrative): "Just Another Woman in Love" by Forever Young CT

2010-12-19T12:52:00.008-06:00

Just Another Woman in Love

(for anh Lasan Taberd74)

When I see the rainbow, I think of your love

When I see the sunshines, I think of your smile

When I see the bright stars, I think of your eyes

When I see the soft clouds, I think of your touch

When I see flowers blooming, I think of our first kiss

When I see people hugging, I feel your embrace

When I see them smiling, I feel your caress

When I see them kissing, I feel your warm and sweet lips

My love, it's your tender love

that I see and feel everywhere

I am just another woman in love and

I am so happy that you're mine!

So, no matter where I might be at this moment

just remember I love you;

remember how deep our love is

And everything will be alright... <3 <3

~Forever Young CT~

(AKA WhiteLibraTexas - 10/31/2010)

To watch my music upload of "Just Another Woman in Love" (performed by Lâm Anh), click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0dki4dxv8M

Poetry (Pastoral Poem): "My Countryside" by Forever Young CT

2010-12-19T11:52:00.008-06:00

My Countryside

The land is called the rice field of dreams

With white clouds adorn the big blue sky

A flock of wild geese just passing by

From afar, happy songs being sung

By the content voices of everyone

of those who have devoted all their lives

to nurture the life of this rice field

Look at the boy and his buffalo

Happy to be together, they are

Life is so breezy like the rice fields

so carefree like the flock of wild geese

so enchanting like my countryside

The countryside of Vietnam, it is.

~Forever Young CT~

12/16/2010

The drawing of "The Countryside with Buffalo Boy" and the poem "My Countryside" were inspired by the song"Bức Hoạ Đồng Quê" of Văn Phụng and the book "A Story of Vietnam" of Dr. Trương Bửu Lâm.

To watch the music clip for "Bức Hoạ Đồng Quê," click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PL824UEo5c

To watch the music clip for "A Story of Vietnam," click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZA_56D7HKs

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "Bức Hoạ Đồng Quê (The Countryside with Buffalo Boy"

2010-12-16T18:17:00.002-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "Bài Không Tên Cuối Cùng (The Last Nameless Song)"

2010-12-15T23:15:00.002-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "Tất Cả Cho Anh [Everything's for You/Vivre Pour Toi, Mourir Pour Toi]"

2010-12-15T22:56:00.003-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "The Virgin Mary & Baby Jesus Under the Holy Star""

2010-12-15T22:27:00.003-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "The Angels' Song (Cao Cung Lên)"

2010-12-15T22:26:00.003-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "The Virgin Mary & Baby Jesus"

2010-12-15T22:25:00.003-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "Lòng Mẹ 2 (Mother's Heart 2)"

2010-12-15T22:24:00.000-06:00

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "Tám Điệp Khúc (The Mother of Vietnam)"

2010-12-14T17:34:00.002-06:00

Vietnamese Composer: Anh Việt Thu

2010-12-14T16:44:00.013-06:00

Anh Việt Thu [1940-1974/1975] was born as Huỳnh Hữu Kim Sang in Mỹ Tho, Vietnam. A couple of sources claimed that he passed away in 1975, while a few others claimed 1974 as the year of death. Thus, the exact date is not known, but it was prior to the ending of the Vietnam War. It could also be that he passed away in late 1974, not very long before the Vietnam War ended. Due to this historical event, this talented songwriter and his name didn't receive the recognition and fame that he should be entitled to and well-deserved. A true talent in Vietnam music who was taken from us too soon. If any of my AMP friends who happen to know the exact date of Anh Việt Thu's departure, please share with me. Anh Việt Thu was married to Trần Nữ Hiệp. They had one son, Việt Bằng.

The origin of Anh Việt Thu's pseudonym is interesting to me. Anh Việt Thu had a younger brother by the name of Việt Thu, whom he loved dearly and took well care of. "Anh" in Vietnamese means "older brother." Thus, "Anh Việt Thu," in this sense, means Việt Thu's older brother. Anh Việt Thu came up with this pseudonym as a reminder to himself that he is the responsible older brother of Việt Thu. And that is according to Vũ Anh Sương, Anh Việt Thu's poetry friend.

Most of Anh Việt Thu's folk/country songs are not complicated to comprehend. The lyrics are tender, very "down-to-earth" and full of love and affection for his war-torn country, Vietnam. I featured a very beautiful song from this young composer, "Tám Điệp Khúc," on my YouTube channel. It just happens to be one of his "harder to comprehend" songs, well, to me it is, but "Tám Điệp Khúc" is indeed one of my all-time favorite Vietnamese folk/country songs. Anh Việt Thu wrote less than 20 songs, a combination of love songs and folk/country songs; however, most of them were well-received and recorded by many well-known artists of yesterday and today, i. e. Duy Khánh, Nhật Trường (Trần Thiện Thanh), Thanh Tuyền, Hoàng Oanh, and Lệ Thu, etc., particularly the featured song, which was recorded by all these famous Vietnamese artists (of my parents' generation).

Before I did my research on this songwriter, whenever I listened to this song, there's one sentence in it: "Anh nhớ thương em từng giờ" (or "I miss you every hour of the day") that I kept wondering where did it come from because the entire song, he seemed to praise his love for the Mother of Vietnam or Vietnam the Country itself. However, this one sentence is indicating how he missed his "lover/sweetheart" every hour of the day. After completing my research, I then learned that this song originally started out as a love song, based on his own love story, but because his love for his country/the Mother of Vietnam was so strong that he ended up combining the two together and came up with such beautiful melody and heart-warming lyrics for this song.

"Giòng An Giang," written in his late teens, is another masterpiece from Anh Việt Thu. It's also one of my favorite songs from this beloved songwriter [See the attached Video Response by daulao on YouTube]. Anh Việt Thu's other well-known and well-loved songs include "Đa Tạ," "Hai Vì Sao Lạc," "Người Đi Ngoài Phố," and "Như Giọt Sầu Rơi."

To watch my upload of "Tám Điệp Khúc," click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jjnq73HZBTE

To watch daulao's upload of "Giòng An Giang" (performed by Ánh Tuyết), click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZAmxIL1SZ0

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

WhiteLibraTexas' Artwork: "Lòng Mẹ 1 (Mother's Heart 1)"

2010-12-12T18:07:00.002-06:00

From the Dalai Lama: Peace

2010-12-11T18:31:00.001-06:00

(contributed by daulao)

Neither peace nor war exists independently of us. Political and military leaders have grave responsibilities with respect to peace - but they too are members of the society that we as individuals help to create. Peace in the world depends on peace in the hearts of individuals; this depends on each of us practising ethics by disciplining our negative thoughts and emotions, and developing basic spiritual qualities.

From the Dalai Lama: The Root of Our Existence

2010-12-11T18:26:00.001-06:00

Our life depends on others so much that at the root of our existence is a fundamental need for love. That is why it is good to cultivate an authentic sense of responsibility and concern for the welfare of others.

Vietnamese Composer: Văn Phụng

2010-12-09T14:54:00.009-06:00

Born as Nguyễn Văn Phụng in 1930, in Hanoi, Vietnam, this legendary songwriter was also considered as one of the best composers of Vietnam music, prior to 1975 (prior to the end of the Vietnam War). He studied music and learned how to play the piano at a very young age. Mr. Van Phung was a brilliant student. His father wanted him to pursue a career in the medical field. After one year of studying medical, Mr. Van Phung decided to stop pursuing that field and started to follow his passion for music. From that passion, many of his timeless love songs were born, most were written between 1954 and 1972. Needless to say, most of them became smash hits and have been sung by various artists of different generations. His songs are still "hot" as of today.

I think it's not only because of the lyrics, but also because of the melodies--most are upbeat! Even this featured song, Giã Từ Đêm Mưa, it's supposed to be a really sad love song, but it's not depressing at all. I mean it's kind of hard to sound depressing with the ChaCha rhythm, right? Sad love song, yes! Wanna do the ChaCha? Sure! That's also why I purposely wrote "After the Rain" to follow "The Rain." Goodbye is only a temporary thing, there's always hope for reunion or reconciliation because I believe true love can never die. It'll be challenged, but the more it's challenged, the stronger the love will become.

"Giã Từ Đêm Mưa" is one of my most favorites from this songwriter. Mr. Van Phung's Ghé Bến Saigon, Suối Tóc, Tôi Đi Giữa Hoàng Hôn, Mưa, Bức Hoạ Đồng Quê, Tình, and Yêu are among the many songs that I really like. These are classic hits. They're actually of my parents' generation.

I've heard quite a few versions of this song from the popular artists of yesterday and today. However, my most favorite version is still the classic version by Bich Loan of CBC, a Vietnamese rock/pop band, which was very popular and active in the 70's. They're are still performing today and I've heard they have their own music night club in Houston, Texas. Bich Loan is the band lead vocalist, who also plays the electric organ.

Mr. Van Phung was married to Châu Hà, a well-known Vietnamese singer of my parents' generation. Mr. Van Phung passed away on December 17, 1999, in Virginia. I made a music clip, featuring "Giã Từ Đêm Mưa," as my dedication to Mr. Van Phung, our brilliant and talented songwriter. Thank you, Mr. Van Phung, for leaving us with so many beautiful songs, to be forever treasured in the music of Vietnam Mr.

To watch my upload of "Giã Từ Đêm Mưa" on YouTube, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfH5HLu_DNU

To watch my upload of "Bức Hoạ Đồng Quê," click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PL824UEo5c

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

My Chihuahuas! Some Fun Facts

2010-12-09T14:50:00.007-06:00

Did you know that teacup, pocket, mini, toy-sized, elf-sized, regular-sized, however you want to call, these terms are just sale gimmicks? There are actually only two types of chihuahuas--the Apple Head and the Deer Head. They're originated from Mexico, in a town called Chihuahua.

Chihuahuas are he smallest breed of dog. Their life span is from 14 to 18 years. They have up to 16 different colors of furs. They weight between 2-12 pounds, stand between 6-11 inches tall, from top of the forehead (Tall? Now that sounds funny!). Some are tiny and some are just bigger than tiny... That's all. The gimmick name teacup is just to make people think the smaller the chi is the more rare and expensive it would be. So, teacup chi's are more expensive than the other bigger chi's.

The chi's don't like large spaces, make them nervous, especially when they are being left alone at home. Nervousness makes them want to go around and mark anything. It's best to keep them in smaller area with cushioning pillows and blankets when you're out. They love to sleep. During the day when you're out working, running errands, going to school or whatever, what do you think they do all day at home? SLEEP! They like to bury themselves under a blanket. Oh, speaking of sleeping, my pooches snore! Leche snores the loudest!

Chihuahuas are wonderful pets. They're playful and have lots of energy. However, they tend to be possessive, stubborn and feisty. Because of those characteristics, they can be a little hard to train. But if given enough love and attention, they can become the cutest and sweetest, eager-to-please pooches that you can own.

I have three chihuahuas, one Deer Head and two Apple Head, including the tiniest one--the teacup chi! I'm showing them off in a few of my Christmas video clips that I uploaded to my YouTube channel. To watch one of those clips, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W37cyZakZ4c

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

Vietnamese Composer: Trịnh Công Sơn

2010-12-07T22:51:00.011-06:00

What is my image of Trinh Cong Son [02/28/1939-04/01/2001], whose talents I greatly admire and love? A solitary man of many true talents! In his music, one would often find the evanescent nature of life, thirst for peace, sorrow of love, and many tragedies caused by his war-torn country, Vietnam, particularly during the period prior to 1975.

Trinh Cong Son, also a poet and painter, was born in Daklak, Vietnam. There is no way I am able to completely comprehend this Master's lyrics (very perspicacious!) without the help of my parents. His music is one of a kind. He is a true legend in the history of Vietnamese music, arts and entertainment. Although I grew up with American and French music, I started listening to and enjoying the Vietnamese music only a few years back; I love his music and I miss him--knowing he is no longer with us to write more of his beautiful melodies. Needless to say, he is greatly missed by many Vietnamese music lovers of different generations.

It was around December of 2009 that friends started to ask me if I actually understand Trinh Cong Son's lyrics? My honest answer is: "No--they're beyond my comprehension!" Nevertheless, because I love his melodies so much that I took time and patiently asked my parents and also my teacher (my private tutor who helped me "re-learn", as well as "learn more", about the beautiful Vietnamese language) to help me understand Trinh Cong Son's lyrics. Trinh Cong Son's lyrics are just too "deep"--I mean extremely "deep"! My comprehension of his lyrics is still weak, but still, it's enough for me to fall in love with his music.

"Thương Một Người" is a very tender and beautiful song from this multi-talented musician. It's also one of my most favorite songs from him. This popular song has been recorded by various artists of different generations; however, my favorite version is from Ý Lan. She delivered an immaculate performance of this song. To watch my upload of this song on YouTube, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuXyB_8a-5I

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

Vietnamese Composer: Đức Huy

2010-12-07T22:23:00.020-06:00

The oldest "teen" heartthrob of Vietnam music and entertainment has got to be this talented and hopelessly romantic songwriter/singer/actor Đức Huy. As I mentioned previously in one of my music uploads, Đức Huy is forever young and forever in love with love. His music can really validate my statement/point-of-view. In addition to writing his own music, Đức Huy has also recorded his own songs, as well as songs of other well-known songwriters, i.e.Trịnh Công Sơn, Nguyễn Trung Cang, Tuấn Khanh, Từ Công Phụng, etc.

Born as Đặng Đức Huy on June 10th, 1947, in Son Tay, Vietnam, Đức Huy started writing music in the mid 60's, with his first mega hit "Cơn Mưa Phùn," written in 1969, which brought him to stardom. His name and music have found a special niche in the hearts of many young lovers of his generation, my parents' generation and now, my generation. This special niche was, and still is, comparable to none. Đức Huy's contemporary music style is very fresh and youthful, a combination of romantic, seductive, sweet and tender. One thing that I really love about Đức Huy's music is that no matter how sad or melancholy the love stories in his songs might be, he would always give them (the lovers in his songs) a hope for a reunion, for a better tomorrow, for togetherness in the end.

If you want to see how Đức Huy charms his audiences and brightens up a stage, you'll have to watch the Paris By Night DVD # 93, titled "Celebrity Dancing," covering a dance competition among the Vietnamese artists, where Đức Huy was one of the judges. My all-time favorite singer, Khánh Ly, was also participating, as one of the judges as well. These two judges were sitting next to each other and they tickled me to death with their great sense of humor and charming ways.

I did need some help from my parents to explain some of their punch lines (which were rather a little difficult for me to comprehend); then I wanted to roll on the floor laughing after I finally understood what they were "throwing" at each other. They were just so hilarious. I really enjoyed watching this DVD with good music, beautiful dancing, and a fun-loving panel of judges. By the way, I paid $25 (plus tax, ahhh... Uncle Sam--he needs us as much as we need him, I guess!) for this DVD and it's worth every penny.

A very well-loved, charming, and humble songwriter, Đức Huy was born to write love songs and I sure hope that he'll continue to write his beautiful music for as long as he walks the face of this earth.

"Il n'y a qu'un bonheur dans la vie, c'est d'aimer et d'être aimé.

There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved."

That should describe the soul of this gifted songwriter perfectly.

To watch my upload of one of Đức Huy's popular love songs on YouTube, "Người Tình Trăm Năm," performed by Ý Lan, click here: http:www.youtube.com/watch?v=ageq1vhnVCA

To watch my upload of Đức Huy performing his own song, "Thoáng Mây Bay," click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFfqs-wPtyw

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

Vietnamese Composer: Vũ Thành An

2010-12-07T11:14:00.015-06:00

Born in 1943, in Hai-Hau, Nam-Dinh, Vietnam, Mr. Vu Thanh An is another talented songwriter. Many of his songs became smash hits; noticeably, the series of love songs that he didn't give any title to, only numbers were assigned to them (Nameless Song # 1, # 2, etc.).

These nameless love songs became very popular in the mid to late 60's when they first came out. Today, the legend of Vu Thanh An's nameless love songs continues to prove to be very popular. Vu Thanh An's melodies are tender. His lyrics are beautiful, yet very sad, and they carry a little "bitter sorrow" in them, especially in almost all of his nameless love songs.

“Bài Không Tên Cuối Cùng” is the last song in his series of nameless love songs. This particular song is featuring both, the original and the new lyrics. If I am not mistaken, Vu Thanh An wrote the original lyrics in the late 60's in Vietnam; many years had passed, he then wrote the new lyrics for this song in the US. The new lyrics are equally beautiful, sad, but less of the "bitter sorrow." In the original lyrics, when his lover tied the knot with another man, he questioned her if she had chosen the right path? With a badly broken heart, came the birth of the first nameless love song, and quite a few more nameless love songs following it.

In the new lyrics of "Bai Khong Ten Cuoi Cung," he re-assured her that, indeed, she had chosen the right path because if they had become one, she would have endured a life of privation with him. This is what I call "true love"--it's not selfish, not demanding, willing to give more than take, and not expecting anything in return. He is very passionate.

I uploaded “Bài Không Tên Cuối Cùng” (performed by Khanh Ly) on YouTube. Khanh Ly's voice is still as spellbinding as ever. This song has been recorded by many artists, but of course, Khanh Ly's version is my most favorite one. Her deep voice, one of rich lower register and so breezy, goes very well with this melody.

Once again, I am proud to present another timeless love song by one of the living legends in the music and entertainment world of Vietnam, Vu Thanh An.

To watch this music clip, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9V5vbJmEe4

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

A Great Book: A Story of Vietnam by Dr. Truong Buu Lam

2010-12-06T13:39:00.021-06:00

ISBN: 978-0-615-356-73-2

Author: Truong Buu Lam

Title: A Story of Vietnam (1st Edition)

Genre: Histories (Historical Fiction & Non-Fiction)

Publishers: The Editions Thanh Cao (Honolulu, Hawaii) & Outskirts Press, Inc. (Denver, Colorado)

"A Story of Vietnam" was given to me by my big brother as a gift. It's one of the most valuable gifts that anyone could have given to an individual of Vietnamese heritage who was born and/or grew up in a new land or another country, other than Vietnam, like myself. I received and read this book with keen appreciation and much respect for my big brother and Dr. Truong Buu Lam, the author of "A Story of Vietnam."

As a proud Vietnamese American, I am also learning to cherish my Vietnamese heritage and "A Story of Vietnam" has opened the door to the discovery of my heritage.

The author's writing style is one of fluidity and conciseness. Dr. Lam wrote this book with the "story-telling" style and I love it! It's so interesting with unabated events in every chapter, nothing like our boring, traditional text books. It's actually NOT a textbook. It's a good story book, period! I am still amazed at how much I've learned from just one book. With some rare photos and great poems in it, make this book even more fun to read. If you like poetry, here's your chance to indulge yourself in some very unique poems that you probably wouldn't be able to find anywhere else, not in English versions for sure. Thus, I am proud to recommend this book to just anyone. Hint: you don't have to like histories to enjoy reading this book.

What lesson did I take away from "A Story of Vietnam"? For me, it's not really a lesson, it's more of a very precious discovery. The author has helped me realize that my heritage is a heritage of honor, pride, and courage. As a reminder for me to be proud and to never forget that, no matter where I might be living and what I might have accomplished in life. I will not tell you more, you'll just have to read it to validate my claim here. I hope you'll enjoy reading "A Story of Vietnam" as much as I did, and still do.

I like this book so much that I decided to make a video clip to introduce it to friends across the globe on YouTube. In my video clip, I also featured the beautiful countryside, riverside, and sunset images of the enchanting Vietnam. The audio of the clip is from two classic popular songs: "Về Dưới Mái Nhà" of Y Vân [1933-1992] (performed by Thế Sơn, Trần Thái Hoà, & Quang Lê) and "Bến Xuân" of Văn Cao [1923-1995] (performed by Khánh Ly & Trần Thái Hoà).

I'm from a family of scholars. I was so excited about the book that I showed it to my Mom. She read it and she loved it! I do want my book back though, so I'll buy one for her to keep in her library, as part of my Christmas gift to her. Why my Mom? Not only just a kind-hearted, loving and caring mother, she was also an educator who has been encouraging me to learn more about the history of my birth country, learn to write better the Vietnamese language (BTW, did you know that Vietnamese is one of the hardest languages to learn? Well, to me, it is), as well as to improve on speaking the language of my Mother's tongue. Needless to say, she was so proud seeing that I own this book and guard it with much joy and respect. ~WhiteLibraTexas~

To watch my video clip featuring this book on YouTube, click on the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZA_56D7HKs

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Truong Buu Lam, a humble and highly respected Specialist of Southeast Asian History, is a retired Professor of History, University of Hawaii at Manoa. Dr. Lam is the author of Patterns of Vietnamese Response to Foreign Intervention (1968); New Lamps for Old (1982); Resistance, Rebellion, Revolution (1984), and Colonialism Experienced (2000).

A true patriot of Vietnam, Dr. Lam is also editor of the collections Patterns of Vietnamese Response to Foreign Intervention, 1858-1900 and Borrowings and Adaptations in Vietnamese Culture.

Dr. Lam is currently residing in Hawaii with his beloved and devoted wife, Vo Le Thanh Diep. They have one son, Lam Son, who is working for the New York City Board of Education, while pursuing his Ph.D. in Education Administration.

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"A STORY OF VIETNAM" ORDERING INFORMATION

1) Publication by the Editions Thanh Cao, Honolulu, Hawaii: http://www.astoryofvietnam.com/purchase

Paperback, 386 pages, shipping included: $12.95/copy for 1 copy, $11.95/copy for 10-19 copies, $10.95/copy for 20 or more copies. Add $2.00/copy for destinations outside of USA.

PDF file: $3.00

2) Outskirts Press Bookstore Website: http://outskirtspress.com/webpage.php...

6 x 9 Paperback, $18.95

Instant E-Book, $5.00

As of the date of this review, five of Dr. Lam's books are also available for purchase through Amazon.com, including "A Story of Vietnam" (Paperback, $18.95).

NOTE: All prices shown are in USD (United States Dollars) and may be subject to change without notice.

The Moody Blues with "For My Lady"

2010-12-06T11:57:00.014-06:00

I will have to repeatedly use the word "love" when I talk about the British rock band, the Moody Blues. I love classic love songs and to me, "For My Lady" is one of the best classic love songs of our time. I really love this song for its tender lyrics and melody. The Moody Blues, formed in 1964, started out as an R&B (rhythm & blues) band playing mostly cover songs. I love the vocal and instrumental harmonies of the Moody Blues. They are somehow very seductive, mesmerizing to me.

The romantic ballad, "For My Lady," is from the album Seventh Sojourn. It is also their first #1 album in the US. However, the band's reflections on making this album was not of fond memories. They had a hard time completing the album. Pain goes hand-in-hand with success for this band, after five years of enjoying their huge success with sold-out concerts across the globe, the band was going through a period of great tension between band members.

Although completing this album was a dreadful experience for the band members, the album was certified Gold in November 1972, the same month that it was released!
"Your Wildest Dreams," "Nights in White Satin," and "Tuesday Afternoon" are my three other very favorite songs from the Moody Blues.

To watch my YouTube upload of one of my most favorite songs from the Moody Blues, "For My Lady," click on the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpHIazW3NWA

Note: If you like this posting, you're welcome to use it. Please be kind enough to credit WhiteLibraTexas as the source.

From the Dalai Lama: The Key to a Better, Happier World

2010-12-06T08:41:00.007-06:00

(Contributed by daulao)

I believe that at all levels of society, whether that involves our family, nation or the international community, the key to a better, happier world is greater compassion. It is not necessary to become religious, or to believe in an ideology to bring this about. The important thing is to develop our basic human qualities as much as we can.

Poetry: "Một Đêm Trăng Sáng" by Quocdungcali

2010-12-04T13:57:00.006-06:00

"Một Đêm Trăng Sáng" (Contributed by Quocdungcali)

Trong một đêm trăng sáng
Có hai người yêu nhau
Tình yêu kia lai láng
Họ mặn nồng "đổi trao"
Ánh trăng làm nhân chứng
Cho hai người yêu nhau
Tình yêu kia bất diệt
Mãi muôn đời bên nhau- Quocdungcali

10 Questions to His Holiness the Dalai Lama

2010-12-04T13:27:00.003-06:00

(Contributed by daulao)

Time Magazine recently interviewed His Holiness in New York City for its "10 Questions to His Holiness the Dalai Lama". Time Magazine has published the response.

Question: Do you ever feel angry or outraged? —Kantesh Guttal, PUNE, INDIA

His Holiness: Oh, yes, of course. I'm a human being. Generally speaking, if a human being never shows anger, then I think something's wrong. He's not right in the brain. [Laughs.]

Question: How do you stay so optimistic and faithful when there is so much hate in the world? —Joana Cotar, FRANKFURT

His Holiness: I always look at any event from a wider angle. There's always some problem, some killing, some murder or terrorist act or scandal everywhere, every day. But if you think the whole world is like that, you're wrong. Out of 6 billion humans, the troublemakers are just a handful.

Question: How has the role set out for you changed since you first came to be the Dalai Lama? —Andy Thomas, CARMARTHEN, WALES

His Holiness: I became the Dalai Lama not on a volunteer basis. Whether I was willing or not, I [had to study] Buddhist philosophy like an ordinary monk student in these big monastic institutions. Eventually I realized I have a responsibility. Sometimes it is difficult, but where there is some challenge, that is also truly an opportunity to serve more.

Question: Do you see any possibility of reconciliation with the Chinese government in your lifetime? —Joseph K.H. Cheng, MELBOURNE

His Holiness: Yes, there is a possibility. But I think past experience shows it is not easy. Many of these hard-liners, their outlook is very narrow and shortsighted. They are not looking at it in a holistic way. However, within the People's Republic of China, there is wider contact with the outside world. There are more and more voices of discontentment among the people, particularly among the intellectuals. Things will change — that's bound to happen.

Question: How can we teach our children not to be angry? —Robyn Rice, GRAND JUNCTION, COLO.

His Holiness: Children always look to their parents. Parents should be more calm. You can teach children that you face a lot of problems but you must react to those problems with a calm mind and reason. I have always had this view about the modern education system: we pay attention to brain development, but the development of warmheartedness we take for granted.

Question: Have you ever thought about being a normal person instead of being the Dalai Lama? —Grego Franco, MANILA

His Holiness: Yes, at a young age. Sometimes I felt, "Oh, this is a burden. I wish I was an unknown Tibetan. Then I'd have more freedom." But then later I realized that my position was something useful to others. Nowadays I feel happy that I'm Dalai Lama. At the same time, I never feel that I'm some special person. Same — we are all the same.

Question: Do you miss Tibet? —Pamela Delgado Córdoba, AGUASCALIENTES, MEXICO

His Holiness: Yes. Tibetan culture is not only ancient but relevant to today's world. After seeing the problems of violence, we realize that Tibetan culture is one of compassion and nonviolence. There is also the climate. In India during monsoon season, it is too wet. Then, I very much miss [Tibet].

Question: What do you say to people who use religion as a pretext to violence or killing? —Arnie Domingo, QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES

His Holiness: There are innocent, faithful people that are manipulated by some other people whose interest is different. Their interest is not religion but power or sometimes money. They manipulate religious faith. In such cases, we must make a distinction: these [bad things] are not caused by religion.

Question: Have you ever tried on a pair of trousers? —Ju Huang, STAMFORD, CONN.

His Holiness: When it's very, very cold. And particularly in 1959, when I escaped, I wore trousers, like laypeople dressed. So I have experience.

Question: Do you believe your time here on earth has been a success? —Les Lucas, KELOWNA, B.C.

His Holiness: Hmmm. That's relative. It's so difficult to say. All human life is some part failure and some part achievement.

From the Dalai Lama: The Compassionate Mind

2010-12-02T14:50:00.008-06:00

(Contributed by daulao)

The compassionate mind is very important. Fear, anger, jealousy are based on a self-centered attitude. By developing a sense of caring for others' well-being your heart autom atically opens and that brings transparency, straightforwardness and honesty, which leads to friendship. We are social animals, and one individual's survival relies entirely on the rest of the community.