I continually pause and restart my creative writing process, having a great interest in writing novels but more luck writing poems. I'm a history buff who enjoys reading American political history and philosophy. My desire is to have an understanding of the ideas that shaped our world, for better or worse. When not reading and writing, I enjoy coffee with friends and play backgammon, as well as chess. Lately, I've taken an interest in theater: building characters, writing, and acting in a local troupe.

I teach English as a Second Language in public schools. I'd enjoy teaching regular English classes as well and would love the opportunity to teach at the University level. I've thought about running for public office, though it's nothing I take too seriously. My hope in all of this is to, through all activities, promote understanding and communication in an effort to achieve a more workable peace.

The son of musicians and having had music around me at all times, I've found it to be an integral part of my life. I can sing bad karaoke of a great many songs not offered in your local bar and am becoming better at drumming, despite having no drums of my own. I enjoy interesting conversations about ideas. I want to grow, helping and being helped by those I surround myself with.

Raised on the Beatles and Bob Dylan, I enjoy an easy tune, great harmonies, and a pointed message. I could skip most of the eighties, with the exception of Michael Jackson. Grunge's origin in the music of Neil Young and Nirvana are familiar and enjoyable to me, as well as the personal evolution of Alanis Morissette and Tool. I enjoy early rap and any that has a coherent message that aims to better the artist's world. Lupe Fiasco and Jay-Z, as well as Tupac Shakur are favorites here. With Doc Watson, I've enjoyed the simple tunes of blue grass, but I have difficulty enjoying contemporary country. I also have trouble with any rap song with a one-line repeating hook. My collection ranges from Robert Johnson's 1939 recordings to the new century. Give me something new, and I'll appreciate it.

Communication and education are dual passions of mine, and I'm spending a considerable portion of my life in those directions. Communication being our best means towards achieving peace and understanding, it is extremely important to me that we instill a sense of openness and curiosity in our youth.

I received a B.A. from the University of Memphis in English, my concentration being Creative Writing. Through this, I write poems and short stories, having once envisioned myself as the next Stephen King. However, I've discarded most of my horror-writing in favor of writing about identity: my own, and my community's.

After taking a few years off, I've returned to The University of Memphis to get my Master's in Education. I want to teach English as a Second Language in the public schools here. I'm finishing my first semester now of a three year program.

I am certified under an alternative license to teach ESL in public schools and am in the process of finishing the school year at a local high school. Earlier this year, I was a substitute teacher, wandering from school to school when a teacher was ill.

I hope to receive a doctorate at some point, though I'm uncertain of what I will be studying: English, History, Philosophy, or Sociology.

I'm good with my pen, writing mainly poetry these days. Friend have said I do well with essay-writing as well.

However, for me, what you are good at isn't nearly as important as what you are trying to do. The key to staying both young and happy is to never let yourself stop learning and trying new things. In college, I had some interest in, but no time for, exploring philosophy. To that end, I've been reading modern and contemporary philosophy and psychology books. I'm always up for a new idea.

I also enjoy trying new games and activities in general. I've been exploring local restaurants lately, which has been exceedingly pleasant.

What you first notice about me depends on a number of factors, so that is a difficult question to answer. If you see me in a coffee shop, you'll notice a number of books and my laptop. I'm usually wearing headphones, regardless of whether or not music or any sound is playing.

If you meet me in a meeting of friends, you'll see that I'm fairly quiet. I speak more in one-on-one situations and tend to take a backseat to the main action when in groups. I use that time to learn about those around and will make occasional comments where I feel mine will fit.

If you've seen me at Trivia Night at Huey's, you'll see me filled with useless information on any number of topics.

If you see me at a play, concert, or presentation, you'll notice whatever you yourself feel about those events coloring your impression of me.

Give me anything from the history, philosophy, science, mythology, or fiction section.

My current favorite movies are 12 Angry Men, Pi, The Fountain, Yes, Solaris, The Dreamers, Finding Neverland, Network, Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, Memento, Superman: The Movie, Superman Returns, American History X, I am Legend, 28 Days Later, Secretary.

In music, I favor Alanis morissette, the Beatles, Beethoven, Bob Bylan, Dave Matthews Band, David Bowie, Doc Watson, Elton John, Eminem, Folk Music, James Brown, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, live bands, Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd, radio, Robert Johnson, rock music, Simon and Garfunkel, The Doors, The Eagles, The Rolling Stones, Tori Amos, the blues, blue grass, classic rock, rock 'n' roll, rock, Tool, A Perfect Circle, Puscifer, The Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Tupac Shakur, Lupe Fiasco, and Nellie McKay.

I've fallen in love with the sandwiches at Barnes and Noble. I enjoy sushi. Spaghetti and pizza will always please me. Subways is the only fast food i eat.

Family
Friends
Knowledge
Experience
Compassion
Phone

I think about the future: mine, my friends'. I consider what happens after whatever stage we're in is over, how we will change, how our experiences will color our outlooks and therefore our future.

I think about education, how I can best teach students.

I think about ideas.

It really depends. I'm sometimes doing homework, grading papers, having coffee, making ice cream with a friend, or just getting in some alone time.

We'll see...

...my profile appeals to you.