My interests are varied, but right now I'm completely focused on listening to cool music and launching my own stationery company (my lifelong dream) which should be happening soon! And finishing my PH.D. in Community based Economic Development.
I'd like to meet people who possess the conviction within themselves to make their own conscious decisions and accept the real consequences of their actions. And, I'm partial to artists, intellectuals, musicians, philosophers, comedians, etc. (and no, I don't think all of these are mutually exclusive!)
My favorites right now are John Mayer (his spirit makes me happy), Anthony Hamilton (his voice reminds of the great soul singers of the seventies), New Orleans Brass Bands like Rebirth and the Hot 8 (the music of my roots), Coldplay (but isn't cliche at this point to like Coldplay? I still do unapologetically), D'Angelo's Voodoo album (modern classic), Jamie Lidell (music to groove to while surfing the web), Lionel Richie's love songs (who doesn't love Lionel?), and any of the other 2000 hits loaded on my IPod!
I love movies and Trading Places with Eddie Murphy and Dan Ackroyd is my favorite comedy. I love so many movies just for one line like, Zebrahead for "Nikki was a hooker, so I took her!" and Ben Affleck's "I have to tell you I love you" speech from Chasing Amy. I prefer comedies and action flicks (with plots), psychological thrillers, and good, old-fashioned sappy romances. Therefore, my favorite movie of all time would have to be an obscure little Australian film called "Flirting" which was Nicole Kidman's last film before she came to America and which stars Thandie Newton before she crossed the pond as well. Do your heart a favor!! Watch "Flirting!"
Love TV and thanks to the TIVO, I can occupy my time during my insomniac moments which have been frequent. Fan of Grey's Anatomy and Numbers and Best Week Ever and other randomness that I catch on the tube. I'll watch anything that catches my eye.
This list could be absolutely exhausting, but my new favorite that I want all of my friends to read is "On Love" by Alain de Botton. This book is an excellent examination of a relationship from infatuation, to love, to confusion, to despair, to hatred, to acceptance and forgiveness. It reminds me of what Chris Rock says, "If you've never contemplated murder, then you've never been in love!" The book Song of Solomon made me stand up and cheer with joy at its beauty and instantly sad that it was over. We live in a better world because this book exists.
My mother of course. I admire the amazing Gordon Parks who I got to meet once thankfully before he died. Oprah is tops on my list. And Bono. This guy's awesome. He could just rest on his rockstar laurels for life, but decided to risk ridicule and rejection to actually make a difference in the world. And last but certainly not least, all the people who lended a hand to me and my beloved City after the hurricane. I know that compassion is real and tangible and I will spend the rest of my days eternally grateful.