A Newborn Miracle!
When I got the news my oldest brother, Mansfield, was diagnosed with prostate cancer I knew that I had been given a divine experience to help him through a very challenging time. It is because of his diagnosis that I decided to start this website.
When I got the news my oldest brother, Mansfield, was diagnosed with prostate cancer I knew that I had been given a divine experience to help him through a very challenging time. It is because of his diagnosis that I decided to start this website.
When faced with numerous challenges, pneumonia on 9/11, a year in the hospital with meningitis and complications due to having AIDS, a ventricle shunt put into my head, bilateral hip replacements, a broken femur due to a fall six weeks after my hip surgery, a divorce and a very hard break-up, I did everything possible to confront my experience and overcome these challenges. This site is dedicated to giving you all the tools that I found along my path and to encourage you to search for your own tools to get through challenges you may face in your life. “You can be your own miracle!”
I encourage you to take a few minutes and watch a little of this documentary filmed for TLC about me, before, during and after my hip-replacement surgery.
“What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is the truth! My sister Alis told me when I was in the midst of my hardest times to just remember there is always someone somewhere that would love to trade places with you, so find gratitude in where you are even if it is hard.
Family is very important to me. When I was sick in the hospital my brother Tim flew from Los Angeles to New York every week and stayed with me from Thursday through Sunday. This meant more to me than I think he will ever really realize. It is also because of him that I feel it is very important for me to step up for my brother Mansfield and be there to support him in his full recovery. I truly believe we have the power in side of us to heal ourselves. It isn’t easy but with the proper support and guidance we can overcome all things that seem too difficult at the time they appear.
When I came out of the hospital my mom said to me, “Phineas… you are a miracle!”. It was then that I realized what had just happened. I was alive because of a power greater than myself, and because of the power within myself.
While I was searching for my miracle I knew that I would have to overcome many obstacles and challenges. I never doubted that I would find it but I did not pretend to know where it would be or when it would appear. It is at this time that I realized how important it is to enjoy the journey not just focus on the destination. I believe we all have miracles waiting for us. We just have to open our eyes and hearts to find them.
“Now’s the time for you to be your own miracle. Your journey begins here…”
You are all my family and I have been called to share my experience, strength and hope with you all, so find it in your heart to find joy even in the hard times and know you will get better.
I dedicate this website to my mother, Aleasta, who is my angel here on earth. I love you mom!
Love and light,
Phineas Newborn III
(This song is written and performed by myself, John Abbott and Gary Seligson, to obtain the rights for a broadway musical adaptation of The Alchemist by Paulo Choelho. I later realized that what I had written would become the theme of my life for the next several years. Listen and enjoy!)
A Shepherds Tale
You can leave a comment for me on my:
(click on the link below)
GUEST BOOK!
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By Erika M Barrantes, January 17, 2011 @ 12:58 am
One cannot hold a torch to light another’s path without brightening their own
This is a wonderful way to demonstrate and share the bright and healing path you have blazed. What a gift for others who seek to find more light to find their way through life’s many challenges! As the quote goes “a candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle.” Thank you for being a light for all of us to enjoy and learn from! You too are an Angel on Earth. Love, Blessings and much Gratitude, Erika 
By Joanne Korrine, January 17, 2011 @ 1:11 am
Dear Phineas, God bless you for having the courage to be be this open. Please know that since your program you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. Even now after reading your blog, you have helped me re-affirm my faith in our Heavenly Father and that through him all things are possible.
Please also know that your family are in my prayers and I know that you will be a pillar of strength (not only) for me and your brother. I believe that you touch any and everyone you have and will meet. May God be with you in all that you aspire to achieve.
By Boon Lin, January 17, 2011 @ 9:01 am
Dear Phineas, I am so proud to be your partner. You have inspired me and I know you are going to inspire many people. I love you.
By Aleasta Newborn, January 17, 2011 @ 11:57 am
Dear Phin, I have witnessed your journey in overcoming many physical, emotional and spiritual challenges.
I am truly grateful for our moments of sharing and my believing in you that whatever you wish to accomphish in your life would be your own miracle. You have indeed open your eyes and heart to the universe by sharing your experience, strength and hope. Continue on your magnificent yourney. You are truly a miracle!! Love. Mom
By Lyn, January 20, 2011 @ 12:51 pm
I love you and thank you for always being available to answer my questions about living a healthy and great life! Love u Uncle!
By Ramon Flowers, January 24, 2011 @ 3:37 pm
Hello Phineas,
I’d like to commend you on a job well done. You’ve given us the wonderful ingredients to kick off the new year by approaching it with the recipe for longevity. Happy New Year!
Love,
Ramon
By Val, January 31, 2011 @ 7:02 pm
Phineas,
Thank you so much for sharing your
Journey and your truth. Thank you for
Reminding me that there are always people going
Through much harder and more challenging things.
I wish you much love and continued healing. XXOO’s
Love Val
By Carol Fineman, February 3, 2011 @ 12:41 pm
Phineas,
This is an amazing website and an important mission that you are on. There is much wisdom and power here.
Thank you, as always, for helping to show the rest of us the way.
Love,
Carol
By Marlene, February 7, 2011 @ 8:03 am
Phineas,
What a wonderful blog and what courage and committment you exhibit. Inspirational. Thanks!
By Lance Roberts, February 8, 2011 @ 9:52 am
fabulous!!! You have always been on a better food journey which is why you have been able to kick so many things in the a**rtichoke! so many of your recipes sounded delicious. also overwhelming. I am gonna really comb through to see what I can add to get myself started. ps- I love Kangen water, not only because it’s good for us, but because I like the smoothness and I swear that I always feel better.
By Lisa Pollino, February 28, 2011 @ 11:33 pm
This site and you are so inspiring! I have been blessed to know you! We must get together soon
Hugs Lisa
By Jeff Schiff, March 3, 2011 @ 4:54 pm
Phineas – thank you for sharing your journey with us. What we can’t possibly do alone, we can do when we call on our fellow journeyman. I’m so glad to be singing with you each week, and to be getting to know you better. Congratulations on your website, and look forward to reading more! Jeff
PS: I just included this quote in the meditations I send out each morning – “I choose the path paved in miracles.” – from I Turn to the Light by Connie Bowen
By Tammi Cubilette, March 5, 2011 @ 10:33 am
Phineas-Thank you so much for turning me on to your website! Your honesty about your own experiences is inspiring!
Tammi
By Flori Acosta, March 18, 2011 @ 12:06 am
With every chapter in your life, you never cease to amaze me. No matter how bad life may seem to us in our journies, in your life you always turn challenges into something so special and profound. Something this whole world can learn from. We’ve known each other and supported each other for most of our lives and I always feel such honor every time we speak. You voice carries an enormous amount of love that can reach me no matter where I am. We are all a reflection of each other and each one necessary and valuable. Thank you for all that you do and all that you are. You may never know how deep my love runs for you. I have one word that would describe you – MAGNANIMOUS! My cup runneth over…. Flori
By Lim, March 19, 2011 @ 12:57 pm
Dear Phineas,
What a touching life story I have read. You are truly a miracle . Your courage to share with others certainly will help and change people to change their lives.
Wish you all the best !
Lim (Malaysia)
By jane minion, March 20, 2011 @ 12:53 pm
Phineas,
Unforgettable is what you are . You etched yourself in my mind and heart when i took your class twenty years ago.
Every now and then, i try to find you, your name pops into my head and i wonder where and how you are..and this time, I really found you at your most beautiful best.
Michelle was my teacher in nyc and she sent me to you many years ago, and she is a rare beauty who i love and dearly cherish.
Both of you are angels in my life who make the world a better place to be.
Thank you for sharing your life to inspire and set an example of what it means to live with dignity and strength.
What you gave me in those months i was a student is a gift that lasts forever.
Pure Joy.
You are in my prayers always, thank you for your beauty, kindness, strength and generosity of spirit.
Jane Minion
By halisi vinson, March 21, 2011 @ 10:05 pm
WOW! Phineas. Heartbreaking, courageous, bold. I am rooting for you with everything i have in me with an extra dose of prayers!
This is only the beginning of a new and powerful story.
Luv u much!
Halisi
By Joaquin, March 24, 2011 @ 5:26 pm
Dear Phineas,
You are truly a miracle! Ever since I met you in choir, I have sensed and been drawn to your powerful and magnificent spirit. Seeing this video piece has deepened my respect for you. This piece has shown me the depth of your strength, love and commitment to life. You inspire me to be a better person and live more fully. Your video moved me to tears. But I am grateful because they are tears of inspiration. Thank you for sharing your gifts with me and the world. You are a Light of God shining brightly.
Much love and respect,
Joaquin
By Bruce Heath, March 25, 2011 @ 5:15 pm
My Dearest Friend,
We have had many conversations that have been so wonderful to me.Thank You for sharing the Spirit of God with all of us and now turning it into a healing. You know I’m always here for you.
Love Bruce:)
By Shaula, March 27, 2011 @ 8:28 pm
Oh Phineas,
Where do I begin? I love it. This site is such an amazing way of sharing I can’t find the words of appreciation to say to you.
I am so inspired and so happy for you first of all and second, I think this is such an amazing portal of knowledge and experience that the whole world can use! Wow! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing yourself yet again with us. I am so proud to be a part of your family. I love you and am here to support this movement you are starting. As always I move with you wherever you may go. All my love to you. I have to go now and start reading all this amazing information that I know will change my life. Knowing you changed my life 21 years ago. I know you are going to change people’s lives for the better. You are such a healing spirit and an inspiration to us all.
Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!
By Lance D. Davis, March 27, 2011 @ 11:01 pm
Phineas,
Words truly cannot express the emotions and feelings experienced after my viewing the TLC story on you. What a blessing it is for you to let God use you via your testimony of trials, tribulations but overall triumph. How inspiring and encouraging your story is! How blessed I am to have heard it! Thank you for sharing it. It’s truly heartfelt, transformational, empowering and inspirational. May the power of your story continue impacting the lives of of others, and May God continue to bless you! Much love and I’m out.
P.S. I also enjoyed the other short videos too
By Levi Louis, March 28, 2011 @ 1:16 pm
Hi Phineas,
I was greatly inspired by your story. Thank you so much for sharing. Ya, see one never knows just who they’re sharing a pew with in church. You truly are remarkable and you continue to let God work through you. On Sunday (yesterday) you mentioned different substitutes for carbohydrates. I know you said seeds any others a carb addict like me can use?
Levi Louis (not your cousin)
By Chuck moore, April 1, 2011 @ 7:50 am
I just finished watching your operation,and recovery tape. I started crying at the same place,when your sitting in the taxi,waiting for Karine to come out. It starts the waterfall!! Then later to look at those eyes,and see all of the strength pouring out,as you start your journey to recovery. You are amazing,and your words to me yesterday,made me want to get up on point again!!! That would be a trip!! Anyway Phineas,i see no other way,but up for you!!! Please let me know everything that is going on with your projects
All my love Chuck
By Diana Hex, April 3, 2011 @ 10:29 am
Phineas, Phineas,Phineas;
Wow! I’m blessed to have danced under you! I was compelled to catch up with you! Again, Wow! Thanks for inspiring my day with the strength of yours! You look the same in your 40′s as your 20′s. I would ask your secret, but I’ve just experienced your passion and compassion through your footage. I love your core, it’s the purest blend of human quality that I’ve ever seen; I’m excited for you. You have something that the whole world needs- an organic smile!
Your Testimony has Blessed many! I Love you dearly! Thank you Phineas for everything.
Grace and Peace,
Diana Hex
By Marc Copage, April 3, 2011 @ 12:37 pm
How fantastic! What a magnificent site! Thank you for continuing to teach and inspire!!! Onwards and Upwards!!!
By julie lazur, April 14, 2011 @ 11:32 am
it is truly mindblowing considering everything that u have been through, phineas. many changes, and, yet, some things never change. u still inspire and teach all of us, the best way, by your example. making us stand up , rise up and reach for our maximum best. still! blown away. thank u gentle, good friend, and, love ♥
By Daniel Seda, April 14, 2011 @ 1:42 pm
So, so, so, so proud of you, my darling!
Love and Light To You Always and Blessings Be,
Daniel
By Jewell, April 16, 2011 @ 8:41 am
Phineas, I feel so much watching your story, but the sum is love and appreciation. You are a Treasure of the first order. How wonderful, not that you’ve had these dramatic experiences, but that you’re willing to let them inspire others facing drama in their own lives. I love you! Lois
By Douglas Korves, April 16, 2011 @ 8:56 am
Hello Phineas,
Some people let their afflictions define them. What impresses me about you and this well-done film is that:
1. You remain the essence of you throughout the film. Illness does not triumph or diminish the spirit and talent that you are.
2. You do not “carry” or drape your woes across your shoulders as many do. You wear a technicolor coat of wellness wherever you go and we all enjoy watching you sachaying about in it.
3. You truly are in some, subtance and wholeness, greater than the sum of your “parts”.
Phineas, in life, the music never stops: keep dancing (we love the song and the songwriter also.)
By Karla Gordy Bristol, April 18, 2011 @ 4:00 pm
Phineas,
Since high school, I have known you to be such a wonderful, caring, giving and encouraging person. Now, through your many challenges, you continue to show your amazing spirit through this website. You have put so many things into perspective for people. Your words are powerful and can benefit us all. Thank you for your unconditional love! May God continue to give you and your brother strength, and pull you through these challenging times! You do have a wonderful family!
~ Much love
By Djeneba Aduayom, April 21, 2011 @ 9:40 pm
Dearest Phineas, I had the amazing chance to cross your path i think now about 20 years ago in Paris, you have always been an inspiration from the very first moment I have met you and our friendship developed, it was genuine and true and always will be no matter how long it has been or how far. Watching this made me cry so much but also smile because that fire you have is there and is burning stronger than ever. You are a beautiful spirit and showing that anything is possible as you always have shown. Here I send you all the love in the world always. I remember that routine you taught us in Paris one day, on George Michael’s song “Teacher” It made me so emotional…….and if you remember it we could dance it again one day.
With love Djeneba
By Marvin Thornton, April 23, 2011 @ 11:50 am
Phi! You’re amazing. And you are rare. Rare in the sense that you are a man who is truly living an authentic life in a world that often does not support that. For that I am proud to know you and proud to call you friend. By sharing your dark moments your light shines brighter than you can imagine. Denial is DIS- ease, honesty heals. Thank you! APPLAUSE, APPLAUSE, APPLAUSE!
Smooches,
Marvin
By Nancy Scher, April 30, 2011 @ 6:56 pm
Phineas,
I am touched, moved, and inspired by who you’re being. Authentic, powerful, compassionate, intentional, and loving. The freedom and way you tell your story, (and what a story it is!); but clearly you are not your story. You are all about relationships, expression and sharing and I can’t wait to see what you have to say next.
Love,
Nancy
PS. nice to be back in your fold
By Jim Abbott, May 1, 2011 @ 5:43 pm
Happy to see you moving ahead on your amazing journey
hope to hear more of it soon
Jim
By Bill Brooks, May 9, 2011 @ 3:20 pm
Hi Phineas!
You are a blessing and an inspiration to so many. I am honored to be your friend! Keep up this divine work and know that you are loved and supported in all you wish to achieve!
Bill
By Chris, May 12, 2011 @ 5:30 pm
Phineas even before I new of your challenges, your name inspired me. What it must feel like to get up every day and know that your are Newborn. Free of anything that had occurred previously.
By Cathy Simpson, May 15, 2011 @ 9:38 pm
Phineas, what an honor it was to dance beside you at Unity. Your courage is remarkable, inspiring and humbling. How blessed we all are for you to be walking and dancing among us. In Joy!! –Cathy
By Johary Ramos, May 16, 2011 @ 11:22 pm
Hermano, we share some parallelism in our lives. You just reinforce me and my journey and also my desire to keep fighting or marching forward and with pride. Thanks for being!
By boyd christopher, July 25, 2011 @ 2:22 pm
wow you are the light
By Anne Shaw Barnaby, August 31, 2011 @ 5:43 pm
From: Barnaby, Anne
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 12:58 PM
To: ‘phineas@thealchemistthemusical.com’
Subject: Bless your heart and soul-Breakin’ RULES forever!!
Dear Mr. Newborn: (Hope you have several moments to read this please)
I only have just read of your amazing journey and spiritual/physical challenges, and I pray to God our heavenly Father to guide you and your devoted family on your journey. You will be forever included in my prayers for health and survival.
I’m a “Breakin’” fan from waaaay back, was 36 at the time the movie came out. It changed my life in so many vivid and memorable ways, too numerous to list. The “light” of the movie is you, Mr. Newborn, without a doubt. A truly beautiful and moving performance, casual and fun, yet so soul-deep.
Your chemistry with Lucinda Dickey was kind, friendly, and so lovingly supportive.
I thank you, sir, for being so alive and amazing, still performing, and staying in touch with cast mates. YOUR dream touches millions all over the world, and this one girl, who’s now 63, thanks you with every fiber in my soul. “Breakin” is timeless, so radiant and true, with shades of purity we have long shed in the new millennium. Seeing Ice-T was so super powerful, the original scratching, playing phonograph records…..I was a radio broadcaster for 30 years, so I appreciate the origins of the hip hop movement. When I began as a radio “DeeJay” we used 78’s and 45’s, then cassettes, then CD’s, so Ice-T truly resonates.
I’m sure it would be an impossible feat to ever schedule a performance in Montana, (we are still too small) but perhaps one day, after I retire, I’ll come to New York or Los Angeles and watch you all. I was also thrilled to read in your mini-bio that you worked with Van Johnson!! He must be my almost-most fave movie actor from the 1940’s, especially after seeing him on Broadway perform in “La Cage Aus Follies”…..we sat in the 4th row, and he brushed past me after the show….a moment I’ll never forget.
I was raised in California, however have lived in Montana most of my adult life. I was lucky to see “Breakin’ “ in an actual movie theatre, the Rialto, now closed. I was a young costumer to the actor Bill Pullman, in the mid-1970’s, when he worked as a university professor, teaching theatre, prior to his success as an actor. I still stay in touch with he and his family, his wife is a wonderful dancer in the Los Angeles and New York circles, Tamara Pullman. They are terrific folks. They have a ranch in Montana, so we get together for horse stuff and whatnot.
My Father was a Louisiana jazz pianist, from New Orleans, and knew all about your Dad’s devotion to his craft, in fact I remember my Dad thinking very highly of the “sound” of your family name….he used to say “here’s the Professor….Dr. Phineas”. He had many of your Dad’s recordings, faithfully recorded on cassettes. My Dad used to tell the story of being allowed into one of the all black jazz clubs in New Orleans when he was a young college student, and a devotee of Fats Waller and Art Tatum. He said Mr. Tatum’s hands could span a full octave, as his fingers were very long and tapered.
Thank you, dear Mr. Newborn, for reading the ramblings I’ve written, much success to you forever. You truly are a timeless, evolved, and brilliant human being, and I thank you for all the joy and love you have brought to my rather quiet and diverse life. May you continue to find joy, hope, and truth in the expression you give to your public through your amazing work. God bless you!
Your biggest fan in Montana, I hope,
Anne Shaw Barnaby
By Iris Gordy, September 7, 2011 @ 3:06 am
Dear Phineas,
Thank you for sharing your incredible story! Karla directed me to your site. I had no idea that you’d been experiencing such tremendous challenges! You are indeed a miracle of God’s enduring Love and my prayers continue for your success. What a delightful surprise to see you at our ‘Make Music LA’ meeting recently and thanks for including your father’s distinctive musicianship on this website. What a treat! The apple truly doesn’t fall far … Stay strong Precious One!
Love and continued blessings,
iris