David Blatt: 24 Karat Gold

I mean is there anyone in EQ or in God’s creation that breathes like this man? I am sure there are some but to have one in our midst is just pure joy. David is the rare angel that also wears the Star of David on his heart. Regardless of his religious beliefs David is for me a model to aspire to. His words always speak the truth but never pierce the skin. He incessantly makes me feel good whether we exchange a friendly glance or engage in a philosophical discussion. He’s a learned man that’s obvious and every time I see him he brings elegance with every word he speaks. He talks openly about his feelings and is so unafraid, which to me is a rare trait in any human. We are so concerned in keeping our frailties a secret David is open about strength and what’s not so strong. “Very cool” as he would say. 

Earlier this month as I was making my 30th platelet donation feeling pretty good about myself I looked up at the Donor Board in Melville and there plain as day was David’s name with over 150 donations. How incredible I thought. Platelet donations take start to finish nearly 2 ½ hours which is a considerable amount of time to donate as well as the liquid life giving gold the body manufactures. But David never spoke of it before in his exquisite self-effacing style. I love this man. If you don’t know him introduce yourself.  I am privileged to know him. David Blatt is 24 Karat Gold.  

Jessica Capobianco Stanziale: Dionysian Artist

I have had the experience of many massage therapists over my membership span at EQ (dating from April 1, 2003). Most of these artisans were memorable in terms of technique, touch and how deep their individual skills put me into an altered state. 

 But first a little segue. Dionysius son of Zeus from Greek mythology was the god of wine, ecstasy and intoxication.  This symbolizes what massage means to me perfectly.  Through therapeutic touch one becomes intoxicated and enters into a world of feeling and experiences outside the everyday. We in a sense become connected in an “oneness” with the universe.  

To the Apollonian individual (Apollo the other son of Zeus) massage therapy is simply logical and necessary to rejuvenate tired and aching muscles to make them new again. Both philosophies are quite true because massage realigns the damage we do especially we who strive for fitness everyday.  For my part leaning ever to the ethereal side of life massage is severely lacking in my regimen. Maybe just maybe in the massage therapist Jessica Capobianco-Stanziale I find the time and dedication to make this woman my individual instructor in order that I can keep on keeping on in the intense group exercise I so love.  

Jessica recommended to me by Kristen Finello (K2) was extolling her virtues heaven on high. I was a skeptic at first because although most massage therapists are excellent no one has “intoxicated” this damaged physiology enough to make me want a return visit. Jessica changed all that for she is a Dionysian Artist. Her hands are adroit and powerful. She intuitively knows where the problem areas are and reaches in with a deep tissue massage that is truly magnificent. In a way Jessica is a musician and her instrument is the human form. 

Constance Korol: Hearts of Gold

I say hearts because she has more than just one. The first belongs to her beloved husband Michael but CK’s love doesn’t stop there. She a member of EQ is among other things a devotee of Mr. Tripp Doherty. An allegiance that is unfailing and unwavering. When I came back to Mr. Mayhem’ sessions she was there as always never letting up on her pedal stroke. He is a man who inspires her in class and on the road as well. Her husband Michael is doing some of that as well recording Ultra Man status in 24 hour and 100 plus mile runs.  

Constance is to me the voice of reason. Whenever there is controversy she sees both sides of the story and I think she’s powerful enough to mix oil and water. She is a writer too and today we were talking about writer’s block, which we both face now and again, and we both agreed sometimes you just have to put your butt in the chair and write. Inspiration isn’t always divine intervention.  

Constance has the humble heart, which is one of the most admirable as she defers to others rather than take the spotlight herself. I like CK as a friend that turns on my smile whenever I look at hers. Constance Korol; has hearts of gold.  

When Love Takes Over Part III

When is the romantic relationship worth all the fuss of the hours when instincts are in collision? At times love can be like chasing the high of alcohol it is fleeting at best. No two people are in love every minute mostly because of some perceived slight by the other. It’s impossible to be considerate of every nuance a woman expects especially when she doesn’t verbalize it. And if a man doesn’t feel he’s being cared for like his mother used to do they pout silently like a little boy. 

Love is the tender trap once it takes over you’re pretty much f**ked. Why we can’t live without it is simple enough we all want to be needed and all need to be wanted. The words of love keep us satisfied. The look of love washes us in an adrenaline only nature can provide. When the words turn sour or the countenance of our loves reflection changes it so often determines how we feel about ourselves.