Big up to Chris Goins for putting me onto this trailer. Beyond The Bricks is a must watch for al those in the education system and all those involved in local politics and the progression of human consciousness Beyond the Bricks follows African-American students Shaquiel Ingram and Erick Graham as they struggle to stay on track in the Newark, NJ public school system. Weaved into the boys stories is commentary from some of the countries foremost scholars and experts focused on African-American boys and their education including Newark Mayor Cory Booker, the Reverend Al Sharpton, and Schott Foundation President Dr. John Jackson, among others. Through these two students personal stories, the film looks critically at the circumstances that are plaguing African-American communities overall, and offers up examples of people who are successfully combating these challenges.

This dude isn’t as stunt heavy as my boy Damien Walters but he definitely has mad style!! Its like he’s combining free running with breakdancing using real obstacles in urban environments. Plus the video samples one of my favorite Bruce Lee quotes of all time. Very dope!!

I wouldn’t consider myself an atheist by any means but I’m definitely far from religious. Although I have a high respect for religion and the peace it provides individuals I have always been critical of the interpretation of scripture and the persecution of innocent people on behalf of scripture. I came across this video on my friend Dan’s Facebook page and it made me think about the relevance of religion in our modern world. I truly believe spirituality is a necessity to all those seeking balance and contentment in their lives but is religion? I’m not saying that it time to irradicate religion from society but I do think its time for us to teach our children the difference between scripture and the pure messages found in most religions.

I smile each and every time I watch this video. I am so taking this little girl’s example.  This is the correct way to jump start your day on the right foot!

Sometimes it just takes a kind word, touch or smile to change someone’s attitude, and sometimes their life. Nick Vujicic and his attitude serve as a great examples of the celebration of life over limitations.

Ironic, isn’t it? Anyone could say the words he says, but the fact that it comes from a guy with no arms or legs makes it so much more heavier. The truth here is that every human being is precious for his or her existence on this very planet of ours. Each one of us is an enrichment to the sum of mankind. And this is an encouraging thought. Please share this video with others.

Aside from his fighting techniques it’s Bruce Lee’s philosophies that inspired me. In this clip from his last recorded interview he reminds us to “Be Like Water My Friend”…

Growing up in Harlem all my friends were passionate about our sneakers, but  no one ever taught us how to turn that passion into money. Damon Williams, on the other hand,  turned his passion for athletic shoes into an stock portfolio worth over $50,000. And get this… he’s only 14 years old. This inspirational video is courtesy of PBS show Money Track. Check it out.

Do Schools Kill Creativity? I thinks so and apparently so does Sir Ken Robinson. In this TED conference presentation he makes an entertaining and profoundly moving case for creating an education system that nurtures (rather than undermines) creativity.  He champions a radical rethink of our school systems, to cultivate creativity and acknowledge multiple types of intelligence. Why don’t we get the best out of people? Sir Ken Robinson argues that it’s because we’ve been educated to become good workers, rather than creative thinkers. Students with restless minds and bodies — far from being cultivated for their energy and curiosity — are ignored or even stigmatized, with terrible consequences. “We are educating people out of their creativity” This is a must watch for everyone, espsecially all new parents out there!!

http://www.vimeo.com/9029148

“My mom told me when I started playing baseball I wont be able to run that fast because I had an operation. I told Mom I wouldn’t need to run that fast, I’ll  just hit them out of the park – Then I’ll be able to walk.” -Edward J. McGrath,

“From nobody to upstart. From upstart to contender. From contender to winner. From winner to champion. From champion to legend. Always think like a champion under any circumstances.”- Tony English

“WHEN EVERYONE GOES BIG, GO SMALL. WHEN EVERYONE GOES CLEAN, GO DIRTY. WHEN EVERYBODY PUTS ON THE CRAZIEST OUTFITS EVER, PUT ON YOUR FAVORITE OLD BAND OF OUTSIDERS DINNER JACKET AND PULL A MONSTER OUT OF YOUR SOUL” -Kanye West

*Following what everyone else is doing will only make you like everyone else. Be Different. Be You. – Tony English