Giving

In life it’s really important to give. I don’t think I can stress this enough. In a world, where many people are self -absorbed and only do things to get personal gain, this is something I think more people need to focus on.

Why do you think we have families, friends, teams, etc. We, as people, need help, and support, and can not achieve our dreams without that from others. This is OUR world. Not mine, or yours. We are all here together to make a difference and when people, friends, any group come together, its always much stronger than one.

My point today is that people need to start giving more and helping others. Its really time to just step up. I mean I would do anything for my family and friends, almost to the point that I push aside MY obligations in order to help my loved ones, which is not good either. I need to find balance. But isn’t that what’s life about?

Anyways, It just shocks me whenever I hear about friends not supporting others or helping others in desperate need of help. Isn’t that the point on true family and friendship?

I mean I would not call many people my “friends.” I know a lot of people. But I only call my friends people who I know are there for me, support me, believe in me, and would help me even if it wasn’t convenient for them. There have been times I really needed help, and people came through for me, so I know they are my real friends, and there have been times I’ve needed help from other “friends” and they were no where to be found. So I don’t waste my time with them anymore. Life is too short to have such superficial relationships with people and spend your precious time with people who when it comes down to it, don’t have your back.

Regardless, the world would be a better place in general, if everyone stepped up, took themselves out of the equation, and looked at the bigger picture. We really need to pull together, especially during these tough times and help wherever we can. Friends, family, strangers, whoever. Just be more open and aware of these things.

Just a thought

Peace and Love,
Lysee

Be Open

"Sometimes you have to venture outside your world in order to find yourself"

Sometimes people get stuck in their routines. They stop going out of their comfort zone, trying new things, getting to know new people, and just stay where they have always been, a place that is known and safe.

We weren’t put on this earth to stay stagnant in our lives. We are meant to grow, learn, and try new things. Even if you fail at what you try, get burned by someone your trying to get to know, feel stupid, insecure, or embarrassed. It’s worth it. Don’t let that stop you from continuing to be open to new things. You honestly are missing out on so much by doing so. New experiences are what make life worthwhile. The more you are open to new things. the more you learn about yourself, and open your mind to new thoughts, ideas, and people. Every new experience is a lesson learned and there can never be too many lessons learned.

Go outside your comfort zone. Try new things with new people. Go out on a limb, every day. Every single day. You will be surprised how drastic your life changes and how different you feel since you are now truly Living.

Did she do the "Un-Thinkable?"

Please watch this... Now. Right now.

This is Alicia Key's Unthinkable video. I might be late on this but I just watched it for the first time last night. The song alone is beautiful but I was excited to see the video as well. I was pleasantly surprised to say the least.

Alicia could have gone into a totally different direction with this video, and just made a standard one. A video of two people making that step from friend to lover... and she did.... But she did more than that and took it to a whole other level.

The video is so beautiful and I am so proud of her for making such a strong statement. Her video describes the racial tensions between black and white and how it unfortunately STILL is a big deal today. In the video, the "Unthinkable" is an inter-racial relationship. And what might have been considered unthinkable 50 years ago, is still considered unthinkable in certain areas of the US/world today.

The United States needs to get its priorities in order. I mean every day people preach about how we are one, people are the same, we should see no color and judge every one as equal. Yet there are many people who are racist, sexist, and prejudiced against all types of people.

The fact that some people would think an interracial relationship is unthinkable is hard for me to understand. I know that in certain religions or cultures it is considered unthinkable, but I mean--really? Love sees no color. And I don't think there is anything wrong with falling in love... Even if you happen to do so with someone who does not have the same background as you.

The thing that people fail to realize is that we are all one. We are put on this earth to connect, grow, and be of service to others. We are NOT here to seclude ourselves and separate ourselves from "Others." The fact is, in my world, there are no "others". We all feel pain, we all have struggles, we all have fears, we all are real. People need to get over this BS, because that's exactly what it is. Its inexcusable that you would let race stop you from following your heart. It's sad actually, very sad.

There is nothing wrong with dating outside your race; it shouldn't even be an issue. It shouldn't even be something people notice. Yet, it is a big deal for many people, which is sad. Don't get me wrong, there is also a problem when people only date outside their race and refuse to date anyone who is their race--that's discrimination and I don't believe in that either. Everyone deserves a fair chance without being prejudged. But if you happen to fall in love with someone outside your race. . .pursue it. Go for it. There's nothing wrong with following your heart. You feel me?

What is Sexy?

What is sexy these days?

What do you define as sexy?

Look at the two photos above. The first, of Audrey Hepburn, is what I define as sexy. Audrey exemplifies class. She was beautiful, well spoken, intelligent, and extremely classy; she was a true woman and a real lady. To me, classy IS the new sexy. Not the second picture, of a woman barely clothed in a suggestive pose. Do people think that's true sexiness?

See it seems to me some people have it wrong. A lot of people actually. Or maybe its just me that has it wrong. But I doubt it.

See even If I looked under google images for "sexy" pictures.. .That's what I supposedly get. . . A bunch of half naked men/women dressed provocatively and posed suggestively. Is that really the message we want to send to people as sexy? I hope not.

See Sexy to me is how you carry yourself. It's being fun, fearless, confident, intelligent, and classy all wrapped up into one. You don't need to sell yourself short by dressing down, and wearing less to look sexy... I mean c'mon, really???

Remember when Justin Timberlake "Brought Sexyback"? Besides making amazing music that everyone could dance to, he was making a statement. The whole concept and look of his album was him dressed nicely; clean cut and fashionable. Not shirtless, not with chains, leather jackets, or little clothing. He was dressed nicely, dressed to impressed--with suits, vests, and more. His style was sexy! I mean that's what I would call sexy.

That's exactly what I mean though. So many times I go out and see women dressed provocatively and what is even worse is that they have no clue why men just want to sleep with them and not get to know them... Well, duh! If you are dressing a certain way, you are going to get treated a certain way. Sorry ladies but that is the truth.

I want to change the way some women think and teach all women that being classy IS sexy. That is truly what sexy is. Concealing and leaving things to the imagination is admirable. It's easy to throw on heels and a short skirt and tight top. But not all of us need to go there to get attention. Get your attention by being you who are and giving off great vibes/energy. You don't have to dress like that to get noticed... By the right man anyway...

Peace and Love,

Lysee

Wise Words

"Don't try to change people - here's a better idea - choose people who are already the way u want them to be"

The Sweetest Thing

Lauryn Hill is one of the biggest influences on me musically. She's amazing to say the least. What I love about her is her honesty, her realness, and not to mention her originality with her style of music. There is something about her and her music that makes her so authentic. I love that kind of realness and creativity in her style of music. I can't wait for the day she comes out with new material.

Enjoy the video. It's one of my favorites

Peace and Love,

Lysee

Remember her?

Man, I miss Ashanti... Her voice, her energy, her music. She has influenced me in so many ways. This is one of my favorite songs. It's so beautiful and powerful. I really hope she comes out with more stuff like this.

Peace and Love

Lysee

Inception

Last night I watched the movie Inception, which is amazing by the way, so everyone must go see it. Anyway, I won't give anything away but the whole point of the movie is that the strongest, most powerful thing that can either destroy a person or turn them into greatness is one thing; the mind. The mind is so powerful and what you feed it really determines how you live your life. One thought can change your entire life. I believe that thoughts turn into your "Truths" or what you perceive to be real. When you believe these things (thoughts/ideas/etc) to be real, you start to act upon that belief. For example, if you believe people are greedy and untrustworthy, you won't be as open to others for your whole life. You will go around missing opportunities, and in turn pushing people away because of this belief. If you think a certain way, it effects your actions, which in turn effect your life. It is so important to think positive and not dwell on negative things because it really can ruin a person. It can ruin your self esteem, your relationships, how you work with others, or how others perceive you.

I think this is such an important concept for people to grasp that for those of you who would want a deeper understanding of this, I would suggest you read Wayne Dyer's book Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life

++ Stay Positive ++

Fall in Love

"Nothing is more practical than finding God, that is, than falling in love in a quite absolute, final way. What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything. It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning, what you will do with your evenings, how you will spend your weekends, what you read, who you know, what breaks your heart, and what amazes you with joy and gratitude. Fall in love, stay in love and it will decide everything.” - Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J.

Dance = Love

Singing is my passion. But dancing... Is my love. I love to dance. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE singing, but I hold a very special place in my heart for dancing. (I hope that makes sense, lol) Today I went to a dance class where I learned a routine from a professional choreographer. I have not been dancing very much this year since I left school and so my skills definitely aren't as good as they used to be. But I didn't care. Dancing is about heart. And I could easily be intimidating by other dancers, but whatever. THey have been doing this every day all their lives, and I'm JUST starting to get back into it. *Note to readers* NEVER feel intimidated by someone who you think is better than you and never let that stop you from going for what you love, and thinking you aren't good enough.

Anyways, I love dancing so much. I feel safe dancing. Even if I look like an idiot, dancing is about emotion. Anyone can move their body, but its how you move it that makes you a good dancer. I believe the more authentic you are, the more of your Swag you put into it, the better dancer you become. I love expressing myself through my body. You can interpret any dance move and make it your own. Its crazy. I could be having the worst day, but when I hear that beat, and my heart starts racing, my body just starts feeling it, and I'm in another world... I'm just in the zone. I just love expressing myself through movement to music. It literally fills me with joy.

Today was a great day

I will never stop dancing.

What is Marriage?

So... This is a picture of the Dream and some random... He was married to Cristina Milian but its obvious that relationship has ended. They were only married 3 months.

See I know I can't judge, but I'm judging. I mean I fully acknowledge I don't know the situation, but if there was any possibility that you would end your MARRIAGE with someone, especially within 3 months, there was no point in getting married in the first place.

Feel free to disagree with the statements I make during this blog, but I define marriage as a union between two people who pledge their lives and themselves to one another forever. They should literally be eternally together; with their love everlasting.

Maybe I just have a different idea or definition of marriage, but I don't think marriage means what it used to. Divorce rates are so high today and many married couples I see don't even seem in love anymore. Why is that?

See I don't think people today fully realize what marriage means and what you are getting yourself into. Marriage is a big committment. You are basically saying, that out of the 6 billion people in the world, you think this person is the best person for you. The most connected to you physically, intellectually, and emotionally. This person will be the mother/father of your children, and will start a family with you! You are choosing to spend your life, your struggles, your triumphs and share those precious moments with them and no one else for the rest of your life. I know it sounds dramatic but its true.

I believe that marriage, like most things, is a very beautiful thing, if done correctly. I for one, believe in marriage, but do not know if it's for me yet. I mean I am always changing, always growing, always taking new paths... So how can I say who I am today will want to be with the same person as who I am in 10, 20, 30, 40 years? I mean its easy to fall in love in my opinion, if you allow yourself to open your heart to another, but how do you know you will always love this person and your love, or dynamic between the two wont change? That is something I am still trying to figure out and understand.

Regardless, I think many people rush into marriages without realizing the true commitment they are making. If you can't commit to someone for a lifetime you definitely should not be marrying them. If I marry, I only want to marry once. What about you?

Something I wrote

For some reason I was just inspired to write this. I haven't figured out if its a poem or rap but its me so enjoy.

people say I'm wise
I'm just a product of the master
I get my knowledge from my god
and leave it all up to my pastor
see I know it's not just me
I got a gift that makes me faster
takes me higher, makes me brighter,
lifts me up to make me lighter,
I'm a lover not a fighter
but ill fight to be a guider
for all those that need a writer
to speak the truth and make it fire
light it up, you'll need a lighter
to burn these words that I conspire

"People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered; Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway. If you are successful you will win some false friends and true enemies; Succeed anyway. If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you; Be honest and frank anyway. What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous; Be happy anyway. The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway. You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God; It was never between you and them anyway. "

Peace and Love,

Lysee

Lauryn's Back!

Take a sec to look at this blog ... http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.11583/title.lauryn-hill-breaks-silence-on-hiatus-children-more

Man... I've MISSED Lauryn Hill. I was really excited to see this article because She's one of my favorite artist and it seems like she has been MIA for so many years.

Anyways I thought this article was interesting and just wanted to share it with all of you. I think its interesting how she mentioned that her environment, meaning the music industry was not necessarily looking out for her best interest and she didn't have the right support system around her to continue doing what she was doing.

I think that's a common problem in the music industry and that's something I am not looking forward to. I think for that exact reason, that is why there are so many celebrities with so many drug and alcohol problems. The people around them and the industry that they are in are not looking out for the best for them. Its sad to see all of these stars just go down the wrong path. That is why is crucial to have a good support system in any career you get into.

I really respect Lauryn's decision to take a step back. Most people would just continue doing what they do until they go so far down the wrong road that once they get there it is far too late. Sometimes you just gotta figure out what works best for you and act accordingly. I really respect people who take that time to step back to re-evaluate things. Its hard to do that especially when you are in the middle of a great career, but that's what she needed to do to fix herself and that's great for her. Sometimes we just need breaks in life and there is nothing wrong with that. I hope it has served her well and I cant wait to hear her new stuff if she chooses to record in the future :)

Say whatt?

Take a sec to look at this blog...

http://www.pynkcelebrity.com/archives/47555

Basically what it says is that Justin Timberlake recently hit on a Lakers Girl at a Lakers game and she refused to even talk to him because she knows that he has a girlfriend.....

Now before I even comment on this let me preface this saying that I absolutely love Justin Timberlake and his music, AND that you never really can trust anything the media says so this could be completely false... But lets just go with it.

If this is true, then I have a lot of respect for this girl. I get so frustrated with some women these days because they have NO RESPECT for other women, let alone themselves. I think 9/10 times if Justin hit on a woman, they would take the bait, fully knowing that he is taken.

I just dont understand why someone would want to get with a man who is clearly using them and with someone else in the first place. What good can come from dating a man with a girlfriend or even a wife? I think there would be A LOT less cheating in the world if women just refused to participate. I mean cheating or dating a man with a girlfriend/wife is a choice....

Dont you have enough respect for yourself to find a man that isnt taken? A man that truly loves you for you and only wants to be with you? Thats what I think. I just have way to much respect for myself and other women to even go there. I love respecting my fellow female but I really wish to see in the future women truly coming together to respect one another. In all areas of life. Supporting one another; in our relationships, careers, and otherwise. Thats one thing I feel so compelled to talk about in my music. One of my goals is to empower women and unite them through my songs. As women I really think that with the right attitude and work we can really make anything possible. We can change a lot of the stereotypes that are out there and we can become better people as a whole. What do ya think?

Anyways, I just really hope people look at this article and start to emulate that kind of behavior. Its okay to say no and its okay to stand your ground! Some females just need to stop being so selfish and really see the big picture. I really think it pays to have strong morals and high values. I really respect that kind of respect. I just believe you get what you give in this world and if you give respect to yourself or anyone, you will get it back.

Okay Im done with my rant. I hope everyone had a blessed weekend.

Peace and Love,

Lysee

Gratitude

There is something to be said about gratitude.

Yesterday I just realized how a simple "Thank you" can make a world of difference. So many times I'll go so far out of my for people, and I don't mind at all, I honestly enjoy helping others, but it just feels so good when they acknowledge what I do and just say thank you and truly mean it. It makes a person feel that they are making a difference and the time they just spent for you wasn't for nothing.

Then I realized I can vocalize my appreciation more. For example, my family does sooo much for me and I have totally gotten used to it. Because they always go out of their way for me I stopped even noticing or thanking them for all that they do. Never forget about the people who go out of their way for you, even if its something small.

I know there has even been times Ill open doors for strangers and they dont even acknowledge me. And that sucks! haha I mean at least a smile or something. Some people are just so caught up in their own stuff they don't even realize the simple things people do for them on a day to day basis to make their life easier. Thats why its so important to be aware.

So just take a moment and just think about all the people who do nice thoughtful things for you and next time really truly thank them. A thank you honestly goes a long way.

Peace and Love,

Lysee

“Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

I have never agreed more with any other statement.

Keep grinding people.

Peace and Love,

Lysee

Dare to Be Different

Life is about finding yourself. And sometimes that means you have the drift away from the crowd so you can stay true to yourself. So many people don’t want to stand out but over the past couple of years I have found thats what make you you. I mean look into the music world. Lady Gaga, for example, is huge and widely respected because she is true to herself; she is different. In the beginning of her career, people told her she would never make it and they rejected her. They thought she was weird and didn’t get it. I mean heck, I didn’t even get it the first time I saw her in one of her crazy outfits at the VMAs. But what I and most of the world has come to realize is that she knows herself and she’s just doing her. She’s absolutely brilliant.

Its hard at first, if people aren’t like you or don’t understand you, for you not to feel alone, or like an outsider. But after a while, people will come around. People respect you for doing what you feel is best and not “selling out.” Look at Alicia keys. She lives in a world where the entertainment industry is all about sex and makes billions off of sex appeal yet she always manages to look classy and not show that much skin. She never goes down that road the further her career. Thats a phenomenal thing to accomplish when a whole industry is doing it a different way. Or take Avril Lavigne. She came out when sexy pop stars where all the craze and everyone wanted to be like Jennifer Lopez, Cristina Aguilera, or Ashanti; all beautiful, strong, GIRLY women. Avril at the time was anything but girly. She came out on stage with her jeans, tee, and a tie and rocked out. She wasn’t sweet and gentle like most pop starts try to be, but she was outspoken, opinionated, and edgy. After Avril, I literally saw so many girls at my school looking and dressing like her everyday. It was cool to be different. People LOVED that about her. And thats my point. In life you have to figure out what makes you different and focus on that. People will Love you for that exact reason.

I remember being in high school and so confused about myself. I didn’t fully know who I was yet and I went to a school of about 1500 students and I was one of 3 other african americans in the entire school. As soon as I walked on campus I was noticed. By everyone. I felt so uncomfortable in class when teachers would have discussions on slavery or racists and I would speak in a class full of Caucasians. I felt so out of place and so judged! I wanted so badly to just be invisible because I felt SO visible. I wanted to be like everyone else. Not unlike everyone, not an outsider. Because that's how I felt. No one looked like me, so I felt alone. For lack of a better word, it sucked. I tried to wear what everyone else wore and act a certain way just so I could show people I was like them. But that was many years ago. Now I have learned to embrace my differences and show them off. I make them my strengths. I’m just doing me and it feels great! Now if Im the minority in the room I don’t care. I have embraced my differences and Im HAPPY to be different, in how I look, dress, feel, and express myself. Thats what makes me me and I am soo grateful for that.

Everyone feels like an outsider or alone at some point. Just remember that its OK to be different and sometimes you have to stand alone to stay true to yourself. Thats okay! Truth is if you tried to be something you weren’t, you would be worse off and unhappy anyways, so just do you and the rest will follow.

Peace and Love

Lysee

Keep it simple

People over complicate things- including myself.

I want to make a point to simplify my life in every way. Its wayyyy to easy to get overwhelmed and stressed in this day and age.

Wow. This might take a lifetime to master, but I'm going to do it


Keep it simple guys.

I Love you Mom

Happy Mother's Day everyone!

I wanted to dedicate my post today to my mom. She is an amazing woman who will never get enough credit for all she has done. I would not be the person I am today if it wasn't for my mom. Through her I have learned how to respect myself, educate myself, and have the poise and confidence to go far in life. I learn everything from her. I'm so glad I have such a good parent who serves as a great example to me. I have never met someone, so strong, independent, hard-working, generous, intelligent, open-minded, and classy. My mom defines the meaning of a true woman and mother. No one has sacrificed as much as she has for me, and I am forever in her debt. No matter what gifts I give her, she has given me the best gift of all... life! I know that sounds corny but its so true.

Its so funny because you know that phrase that basically says you always end up like your parents? Well If you would have told me that ten years ago I wouldn't have believed it. I literally remember sitting at home seeing my mom come home from work while she was talking to someone she worked with. She seemed so fun yet intelligent and witty that I was amazed. She did things I only dreamed of. Like she was (and still is) and incredible public speaker. She would speak at events with hundreds of people and remain so poised and knowledgeable on her subject. She was extremely smart; always knew how to get her way and would figure out how to make something out of nothing. She was so comfortable around people, so energetic and charming. And this was a big deal because at the time I was at that age where you are a little socially awkward, haha. SO I looked at her as this amazingly accomplished, yet caring person and I never thought I would amount to her greatness. I looked up to her so much and put her on such a huge pedestal that I thought I could never reach. Today, is a different story though. I have grown so much and I'm soo happy to say I'm my mother's daughter. I cant believe it but I really have grown to be very much like her and I'm so thankful for it. I have slowly but surely learned how to do all these things that I never thought I would be able to do or be comfortable doing. I have learned so much through her strength and example. Don't get me wrong, I still have A LOT more to learn and to grow, but I just cant believe I have made it this far. I am so blessed.

So thank you mommy, for your kind and inspirational words, your dedication to serve not only your children but everyone around you, and your dedication to yourself to become a better person each and every day. If it wasn't for your encouragement since I was born to do or be whatever I wanted to I don't think I would have ever dreamed big enough to truly believe I could achieve everything I ever wanted, not to mention go for my singing career. You always believed in me and told me all things were possible. And I'm starting to find out you were completely right.

I love you mom. I really really do.

This blog does not need a Title :)

WOW! There is so much I wanna say and so much on my mind but I'll stick with the simple stuff... For now.

Today has been a really good day so far! I met with my good friend Ashley who photographed me today for some new looks for my myspace. Im completely re-doing my website so Ive been so busy putting it all together! So many artist have so much help (publicist,managers,stylists, etc) but I'm really just doing this all by myself. Its pretty cool thought, trust me I'm not complaining. Its just a lot of work to do as one person! I just feel very accomplished because this week has been all about focus and getting stuff done that I needed to. But in the midst of my work, I realized that I miss dancing! I haven't been going to dance studios much and keeping up with my other passion, dance. Ashley and I were on the same hip hop team in college and it was so nice seeing her today because it reminded me of my love for dance and the people who love what I love. So Just because you are busy focusing on your careeer, it doesnt mean that you should lose sight of other hobbies or things that make you happy. So today i decided im going to get back into dance and start taking some classes. Im super excitedddd.

Rushing

I don't like to rush things. I'm saying this because I feel rushed at the moment and I don't want to rush this blog just because I feel like there might not be enough hours in a day. With that, I'm going to take a deep breath and begin writing...

Independence. That's whats on my mind today. One lesson I have learned is that as a female its so important to remain independent. I love having my own life, friends, and career and it is something that keeps me "me" One thing I want to explore and promote through my music is that female independence. Since I was born, Ive always had that attitude of getting everything myself and never letting a man take over or do everything for me. Don't get me wrong, if you have that by all means go for it, I'm just saying a woman can always fall back on her independence, because relationships come and go...

Its so seldom to see a couple that last a lifetime these days. SO many people lie, cheat, etc and that's why women have to get it together NOW. Its so important to have your own money and your own life. Because not only does it keep YOU happy, it'll keep others around you happy because since you have your own, you have more of yourself to give.

I believe in long lasting love, I believe in long lasting friendship, and I believe in fairy tales. But just because I believe that doesn't mean it always turns out that way. SO while yes, you may think you have found "the one" or have the greatest friends you have to remain true to yourself. you have to be aware that your surroundings change and can change you and that you won't let it. Always maintain your independence and continue being you. Even when it's not convenient.

I have come to realize that everything in life comes and goes. Your relationship with your parents, friends, lovers, jobs, experiences, feelings. At one point they are all close to you / strong and at others they are weak/non existent. So you gotta just learn how to roll with the punches and let go of everything so that when you have it you can truly enjoy it and embrace it, but when they are gone, you don't completely fall apart. So ladies, Please remember to always remain you. Make your own money, have good people around you, and always do you. Never let a man do everything for you until you learn how to do all these things for yourself. Because once you depend on a man, friend, parent, for everything... that's when things can get messy.

on that note i hope everyone has a great day!

(sorry to be a little bit of a downer today... but this is an important subject thats near and dear to my heart)

Peace and Love,

Lysee

Inspire(d)

Currently wide awake thinking... Life is about inspiration. Its about inspiring others and being inspired. Todays goal? Get out there and inspire. Whether it be with your art, music, logic, skill, mind, energy, or attitude. Whatever it is you "do" you can inspire just by simply doing it. I'm going to create something beautiful today.