We Are All The Same Inside - The Blog

Last week I had the most heartwarming evening at Ali Formey Foundation, creating We Are All the Same Inside ® Sage dolls! So appreciative to The Trevor Project for reconnecting me to Carl Siciliano Ari Salaam and Steve Cruz for this workshop manifested. This project has been simmering on my back burner for about 15 years. I've always wanted to find a way to use this human diversity tool of tolerance - creating these, symbolic Sage dolls - to connect with young LGTBQ+ people, especially those facing challenges. And last week, it finally happened! Volunteering my time, I felt a sense of déjà vu. It felt remarkably similar to my time teaching at Hunter Elementary School, one of my favorite jobs as an art teacher before transitioning to higher education. There was that same spark of creativity, the joy of seeing minds engage, and the profound satisfaction of witnessing self-expression unfold. These teens, facing obstacles, poured their hearts and souls into their Sage dolls. Each stitch, each bead, each carefully chosen color, told a story of resilience, hope, and the inherent beauty within. The We Are All the Same Inside ® Sage doll-making philosophy, embodied in these dolls, resonated deeply. It's a reminder that beneath the surface, we all share common ground, regardless of our backgrounds or the challenges we face. That evening was a true testament to the power of doll art, connection, and the human spirit. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and inspired to continue finding ways to use my skills to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. If you'd like to learn more about the Ali Formey Foundation please visit their website: https://www.aliforneycenter.org/

Once I was a sprite, budding workaholic, and a relentless people-pleaser. My early New York days were a whirlwind of freelancing, dancing, flitting between school and after school programs, day care centers, and homeless shelters. Often, I immersed myself in these environments, taking on the artist residency role, bringing with me art supplies and of course the We Are all the Same Inside doll parts. These were and still are the tools of my trade, the bridges to connect with those I served. One particular memory stands out, etched deeply into the tapestry of my past. It was during a partnership with a New York City shelter. As I engaged with the program staff, one woman shared a poignant story. Her son had gifted her a weeks vacation. As she recounted this simple act of kindness, a vacation she had never been afforded tears welled up in her eyes. In that moment, I was a detached observer, a young and determined man consumed by the relentless pursuit of goals and the intoxicating rush of productivity. Relaxation was a foreign concept, a luxury I couldn’t afford in my quest for fulfillment. Almost a quarter of century later, the echo of her tears resonates with a profound clarity. The hustle, once a badge of honor, now feels like a relentless treadmill. I find myself longing for the quietude she described, the simple joy of doing nothing. The woman at the shelter was not merely sharing a personal anecdote; she was offering a glimpse into a life beyond the constant striving. In the relentless pursuit of making monthly payments and meager success, I had overlooked the essential human need for rest, for stillness. The irony is not lost on me. I, the human who had brought solace and creativity to others, had neglected my own well-being. That moment, a fleeting snapshot in time, was a premonition of the challenges I would face. It was a life lesson, a gentle warning about the dangers of an unchecked ambition. Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the experiences that shaped me. The work I did (and still do) was meaningful, and the connections I forged were invaluable. Yet, I also recognize the importance of balance, of honoring the need for rest and rejuvenation. The woman at the shelter taught me a valuable lesson about the human spirit, about the power of simple kindness, and about the enduring importance of finding peace amidst the chaos. Her tears were a wake-up call, a reminder that even in the midst of our aspirations, we must never lose sight of our humanity. It is a lesson I continue to learn, a journey towards a life that is not only fulfilling but also sustainable.

Thrilled to announce that I've been elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Mattie J.T. Stepanek Foundation! Beyond humbled to join Mama Peace herself, Jeni Stepanek, Ph.D. alongside fellow luminaries and global peace activists like Mr. Simon Cohen (UK), Stacey MacKinnon (Canada), Jim “JJ” Jackson (Canada), Khouloud Ayuti (Israel), Joe Palermino, (USA), LeAnne Smith (USA), Noah Striker (Canada). Together, we'll collaborate and carry forward Mattie's powerful message of hope and peace. Speaking of peace, mark your calendars! Join us for a FREE family fun day at the Peace Day in the Park on Sunday, July 14th from 11 am to 2 pm at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park (1800 Piccard Drive, Rockville, MD). We'll have free fun for families, friends, and everyone! Plus, we'll be making PLUSH WAATSI Sage dolls of Mattie – a special way to remember his spirit. See you there! Timothy

There was a quiet energy as we walked in. Tables were covered in rainbow flags and sported mounds of colorful fabrics cut precisely to fit the Sage dolls kits I stuffed the night before, a stark contrast to the subdued atmosphere of any typical senior center. Today's agenda: "We Are All the Same Inside" Sage doll-making workshop, with a brief introduction to the significance of LGTBQ+ Pride. Terrified as per usual, I opted for a gentle approach, focusing on the universality of emotions and the participants experiences with dignity. The discussion then shifted to the Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. I saw a flicker of recognition in some eyes, while others held a polite curiosity. Instead of heavy jargon, I used terms like "finding success in your own uniqueness” and "having a sense of belonging." It felt more inclusive, a bridge across generations. Soon after fabric scraps and paint transformed into whimsical Sage dolls, each one unique, mirroring the diversity within the room. Yet, a sense of unity pervaded as we stuffed and stitched, a silent testament to our shared humanity. As the workshop ended, a few participants lingered. An awkward silence settled – the kind that precedes a question long held back. It started with, "When did you know you were… different?" followed by the more loaded, "Isn't it a choice?" I answered each question with respect, emphasizing that sexual orientation and gender identity are part of who we are, not choices we make. However, the most touching moment arrived when a woman with rheumy eyes confessed, "My granddaughter just came out as a lesbian, and my grandson… well, he's changing into a girl. I don't know what to do." Looking into her worried face, I offered the simplest advice: "Love them." It wasn't a dismissal, but a foundation. Love, I explained, could build bridges of understanding, open doors to communication, and create a safer space for their loved ones to thrive. Going to the senior center that day, wasn't just about crafting Sage dolls; it was about crafting connections. Like the colorful fabrics used that day, we celebrated that pride in oneself can become the most beautiful spectrum.

Diana Ross, a name synonymous with glamour and her sheer determination, has captivated audiences for decades. Her influence transcends race, genders and even borders, uniting fans across the globe in a shared adoration. While I've never personally brushed shoulders with the legendary Supremes singer, I've witnessed countless others chase that dream. Some have come closer than others. I've met those who dueted with her on stage, and even those who held the creative reins, producing her iconic songs. But for the average fan, that kind of proximity remains a distant fantasy. Perhaps, in a way, that's for the best. My own intense Diana Ross fandom peaked in my late teenage years and young adulthood, a period when her music served as a powerful soundtrack to my life's unfolding chapters. Recently, watching The Kelly Clarkson Show, I felt a familiar pang of teenage awe mirrored in a 14 year old named Louie and his wide-eyed reaction to his mother surprising him with tickets to see Diana Ross. It was a delightful echo of my own fourteen-year-old self, completely enthralled by Ms Ross's brilliance. This renewed connection with fandom sparked an unexpected turn of events. Out of the blue, Louie's mother contacted me via Instagram about my #star80 dolls, a collection of 80+ Diana Ross We Are All the Same Inside Sage dolls that had adorned our Christmas tree during the 2023 season. Sharing this passion with a fellow Diana Ross devotee felt like the most natural thing to do, so I shipped a couple of #star80 dolls his way. But the urge to connect didn't stop there. In a moment of my people pleasing (or perhaps fueled by a touch of nostalgia), I sent several boxes of Diana Ross memorabilia to Louie. It felt right. He, in that moment, seemed to embody the pure, unadulterated love for Miss Ross that I once possessed, and perhaps needed it more than I did. Now, with the remaining 80 + #star80 dolls in hand, I find myself pondering their fate. While shipping them all to Louie may seem like the obvious answer, seeing his recent video thanking me gives me pause. It's more than just a "thank you" – it's a beautiful testament to his passion, a vibrant celebration of Diana Ross's 80th birthday on this planet, complete with vibrant designer gowns, dolls, and a love spanning eight decades. Louie, with his collection of seven dolls (a magical number, I might add, representing the rainbow spectrum), seems destined to find his own unique path to success. Perhaps these #star80 dolls will serve as a reminder that sometimes, the greatest joy comes not from meeting our idols, but from sharing the fire of that admiration with others. The legacy of Diana Ross,after all, extends far beyond the stage, living on in the hearts and voices of her devoted fans, a vibrant tapestry woven across the globe. As for me, I'll hold onto the memories and the knowledge that my teenage self's unwavering love for Miss Ross continues to inspire and connect, even in unexpected ways. #dianaross #star80 #legacy2024 #dianarossthankyou #sagedoll #weareallthesameinside

Today would have been Dad's 80th birthday. There's a familiar ache, the kind that comes with that absence. But don't make me start belting out Luther Vandross' "Dance With My Father," that song is so heavy with the weight of a changing relationship. But instead, a different kind of melody plays inside, a melody born from my Italian heritage - superstition. It goes like this: whenever I see a pineapple, it's a sign from a departed loved one, letting you know they're watching over you. It might sound SO silly, but lately, pineapples seem to be popping up everywhere – a vibrant patten on tablecloth at downtown Manhattan restaurant, a street vendor selling fruit, even a quirky phone case. Each time, a warmth spreads through me, a silent "Hey there, 'Moth (his nickname for me) from the other side". The truth is, our relationship wasn't always sunshine, lollipops and pineapples. It took him a while to understand my path, and courage on part just to walk it. But in the twilight of his life, there was a shift. We talked, we listened, and a bridge of acceptance was built. He came to see the man I was becoming, the man I was always meant to be. So, Dad, wherever you are, this one's for you. Every spiky pineapple I see is a reminder that you're no longer physical, is woven into the fabric of who I am. Happy (would-have-been) #star80th birthday. And hey, I wish you could have seen my #star80 Diana Ross A Celebration of 80 Gowns, Dolls & Years Christmas tree last year.

Watching the series "Eric" (2024) on Netflix was a surprisingly poignant experience. The troubled protagonist Vincent is puppeteer, clinging to the impossible hope of reuniting with his missing son Edgar through his giant puppet named "Eric". This series resonated deeply with my own journey with the "Sage" doll.
Just like Vincent with "Eric", the Sage doll became my catalyst for tolerance, a vessel for the stories I poured into my children's picture book pages and students' lives. While Vincent desperately seeks a connection to his estranged son Edgar, I found a unique way to foster connection and inspire creativity in countless young minds and even connected with celebrities that continue to inspire me. Both Vincent and I, through our artistic mediums, discovered a way to bridge the gap between the tangible and the intangible, the seen and the unseen.
Vincent's unwavering belief in a fantastical transformation mirrored my own belief in the power of puppets and dolls in the classroom. These seemingly simple objects become powerful tools for navigating difficult concepts and conversations. They create a safe space for students to explore emotions and reveal hidden vulnerabilities. The Netflix series reminded me that even in the darkest moments, there's a spark of power within us all. Just like Vincent, with the support of "Eric", we can find the strength to transform ourselves.
Vincent the protagonist in the Netflix series "Eric" troubled as he is dreams of transforming the world, by the end of this he discovered a powerful truth: the greatest transformation most often needs be within. He realized that his dolls and puppets were mere reflections of the need to change himself NOT the world he sought to reshape. Here are some additional musings and thoughts prompted by the Netflix series "Eric" and my teaching experiences using dolls and puppets:
* Power of the Metaphor: Puppets and dolls act as metaphors, allowing students to express themselves indirectly,fostering deeper understanding. *Unlocking Emotions: Dolls and puppets can help children feel safe enough to explore difficult emotions, leading to catharsis and growth. * Building Empathy: By creating characters and stories, students can develop empathy by stepping into the shoes of others.
"Eric" serves as a powerful reminder that transformation, even the seemingly impossible, can be sparked by a little bit of belief and a whole lot of creativity. It reinforces my own commitment to using the dolls or puppets in any classroom to empower my students and foster positive change in their contexts of learning.