Wednesday, December 14, 2011

The Faces of Rich

Ghetto Rich
Primarily invested in depreciating assets i.e. cars, clothes and jewelry.

Scenario 1:
Young woman receives 80k when her father passes away and blows every penny on clothes, high end purses and shoes. The mother criticizes her daughter; however quiet as its kept the mother acts in a similar fashion. The mother receives a substantial sum as well. She opted to donate her Grandam to charity, which is fine; however she turns around and almost in the same breath leaves her health care profession without notice(idiot move), purchases a BMW M3, then decides that wasn't enough so she purchases an additional vehicle. Only the current years Saleen Mustang, please note the sarcasm.  

Okay, some may feel this isn't too extravagant.  It is when you are living in section 8 housing.  The money spent on the vehicles which lost a bit of their value as she drove them off the lot could have served as a sweet down payment on a home.  Depending on the state it could have paid for the home in full.  Bam! Investment made! I will recognize this woman for paying off the bills she had in collections. However in the end she was unable to maintain the vehicles. Couldn't afford the maintenance much less gas. Not once was their a thought to set aside funds for a rainy day. No savings, no 401k....nothing. Just the notion of robbing Peter to pay Paul. A lot of us do that anyway. That's just what we do. Not only that she was no longer able to continue in the health care arena and is currently employed part-time at Walmart. The vehicles had to be sold and the proceeds used to pay off outstanding liens. 

Scenario2
The Entrepreneur also known as Hustle Man.
Hustle Man is doing big things. He walks around with the latest technology in his pocket but struggles to maintain active service.  Why? Because Hustle Man doesn't have a job! He'll tell you he's self employed and about to blow up! He's about to purchase a McDonald's franchise in an area that already has one every 2 miles. In an economy such as we have they have already started closing quite a few.

Hustle Man recently acquired 2-3 million dollars. This was a legit acquisition. He's decided he needs a house.  I agree. A home can be a sound investment. However why are you going to spend 1 million on a MONEY PIT? A home that needs repairs. Lots of repairs! You're trying to keep up with the 'Lil Wayne's, with ostentatious displays of your new found wealth. I can't give you the Jay Z status, because He is a Businessman. No where close to the Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, DuPont or the Rothschild families. Perhaps I should rank you with Mike Tyson, an entertaining fighter but not business savvy.

Nouveau Riche
Previously part of a lower socio economic rank

Scenario 3
The Goldsteins of America
Forgive me if the name strikes a nerve. It's the first name that came to mind for those that have worked for their wealth within the 20th-21st century. Those that have worked hard and knocked others out of the way in the process. Not caring about anyone but themselves. Feeling they are exempt from ALL normal policy and procedures and treating others like mere peasants. I can't even put you in the category of the Alec Baldwins, simmer down. 

Scenario 4
The man/woman who marries into 'Old Money'. Business savvy, picking up the tricks of the trade from the family adding their own ideas and methods creating quite the empire. Aware of the life struggles that we as humans go through and always willing to assist others, quite the humanitarian/philanthropist. The one that you encounter and have absolutely NO idea that they have billions.

Rich in Spirit
Those that make ends meet the majority of the time without complaints. Not needing anything and if they do, their faith in God carries them through. You have a roof over your head, food on the table and love in your heart. You do what you can within your power to help others.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Friends v Frenemies

Do friends hurt relationships? 
Do friends have our best interest at heart?
In new relationships do we cast our FRIENDS aside to appease our NEW significant?

In my observations I have noticed, when two individuals are NEW in their relationship they tend to ignore outside elements further known as friends.  Is this proper? That may come with a 50/50 answer.  Some may find that there is nothing wrong with it; others may feel you should not alienate your friends.  I am inclined to not alienate the friend whether male or female.  True friends are in your life and heart no matter what. The friends were there first essentially and are an extension of you. Understanding, that should things progress with you and the significant, the significant will also then be a part of you. Said friend will also understand the need to place a limitation on the amount of time spent without any loss of identity on your behalf. 

Friends that have been around forever so to speak may genuinely care; however you may find an interest that far surpasses that of a Platonic relationship. When that is discovered are you prepared to handle it? You may also find the long time friend trying to advise you of what's right and wrong in your NEW relationship based upon their past experiences.  Would this information be noteworthy? Food for thought.  It's possible it may be noteworthy; however everyone's reactions to actions are different. That friend's adverse experience could be the very thing that makes your toes curl placing you on cloud nine and that wonderful feeling of ecstasy your friend experienced, may be the very thing that makes you want to regurgitate.

The long time friend crossing the Platonic Relationship Boundaries could have very well been a great friend, that turns(ed) lethal.  Should your time be consumed with your significant other and you alienate the long term friend you may find when you finally reach out to them, you're in hostile territory.  Your friend has been hurt and may blatantly try to destroy your relationship if allowed.  It's juvenile I know, but it happens. We must keep in mind the friends heart typically wants what the heart wants.  Over ruling what is essentially right.   

In a nutshell, Yes, friends can and do hurt relationships if we are not careful, even if we know in our heart of hearts that they have our best interest in mind.  When the boundaries are crossed and the hurt occurs our friend becomes our frenemy.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Disparaging & Offensive

This post may offend some just by the one word that really chafes my behind or the fact that I express sheer disgust in its usage. The one word that has been accepted as a term of endearment by some; wherein the spelling has been changed over the years to do what, make a sad attempt at making the word acceptable?  That's right I am talking about the word used by so many..'Nigger', 'Niggah', 'Nigga', 'Niglet'.  The list actually goes on; however I've opted not to go on with the many  spellings. 

We have had comedians use the word freely, Redd Foxx and Richard Pryor. A scene from Sanford and Son "Legal Eagle" .... "There are enough ni**as in here to make a Tarzan Movie" though comments in comedic programs such as this may have been funny, it doesn't make it right. 

Richard Pryor in his life's comedic foray stopped using the word Nigger once he took a trip to Kenya, returning and condemning the word.  His desire to abandon the word, enticed death threats, etc.  But guess what?  He was still FUNNY.  Considered by some to be a pioneer, an astute observer of life.   

Chris Rock is noted for saying 'We took the scraps and made it cuisine.  We took the word Nigger and made it poetry....put some sauce on it and it's poetry'. 
Is this why our youth use the word as though they were drinking a glass of water? Truth be told it can't be isolated to the youth.  We have adults that seem to use it just as freely without any hesitation. 

Listening to a group of young men on the metro rail made me cringe.  They were tapping out beats with their hands and feet, not bothering a soul; however the words emanating from their mouths were quite unsavory.  Ni**a this, Ni**a that.  F@ck that Ni**a, That Ni**a is crazy.

I read a comment  which mimicked my thoughts without derailment...."If you witnessed your mother being raped, forced to watch the entire atrocity or your father being hung from a tree (strange fruit) because it was common & fair actions for ni**as, would you be so willing to make the word into a term of endearment?"  I would NOT, but that is ME. 

We have become so de-sensitized and continue to make every excuse known to man to use this word.  If Richard Pryor could cease the use why can't we as a whole do the same.  I guess that would be too simplistic of a task. 

Monday, October 24, 2011

Criticism of Obama/L.R.A.

Obama has received criticism for sending troops to Uganda in an effort to restore Human Rights & Dignity to Ugandans. 

Rush Limbaugh is one to critique Obama's actions. More or less stating that Obama is meddling in the affairs of Christians. These Christians being the Lord's Resistance Army, a.k.a L.R.A., led by Joseph Kony an African Terrorist. 

Joseph Kony is noted to have committed a plethora of atrocities...abduction, rape, maiming and murdering civilians, including children. His organization is noted for abducting young girls forcing them to be sex and labor slaves. Others reported to have been traded, sold or given as gifts by the L.R.A. to arms dealers in Sudan.  Children forced to become child soldiers, taking the lives of other children. 

Reports indicate approximately 70,000 children have been abducted. Thousands killed others displaced in four countries. Villagers mutilated...lips, ears and noses cut off.  Leaving them permanently disfigured as Evelyn Apoka who spoke out against Rush Limbaugh applauding Obama for his efforts.

It seems that Joseph Kony inherited power through or from his Aunt Alice Auma, the Mystic who started the Holy Spirit Movement. Intentions were to establish a regime based on the Ten Commandments.  Somehow this concept must have slipped. This in turn could be why Rush Limbaugh feels Obama is meddling. 

If we look at this differently...is maiming & rape Christian-like? Are we as a nation mentally prepared to combat child-soldiers? These children that are brainwashed and know nothing of living the life of a child. So are we meddling when if we look right out our front door we have the same atrocities that take place in the U.S.?

Just Random thoughts......comments welcome.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Relationships & Church

My mind roams yet again.  My thoughts or questions at this time are as follows:
Is it healthy in a relationship for one to attend church regularly while the other shows no interest?  Even if it's only once a month; there is no interest shown. Both individuals believe in God, but one chooses not to participate in any form of worship or fellowship within the church.  One might argue that it is not necessary to enter into a building to have church.  Another may argue that it's always good to obtain a viewpoint of an outside teacher of the word, as everyone has something different to offer.     

Does it place a strain on the relationship when one comes in from a spirit filled day of worship, wanting to share the joy in their heart, mind and soul, and the other has no way of truly relating?  What happens when that inability to relate to the other causes one to turn to someone else of the opposite sex within or out of the church? 

Ah-ha! That is yet another thought or topic to ponder as well as one cheating on their significant other with the church.  It's not as bad as it may sound.  My brain is moving faster than my fingers.   

On a personal note I applaud and have much love for a MAN/WOMAN that openly professes his/her Love for God and ALL he has to offer!!  So often we wander around this earth silent for fear of how we will be perceived. Embrace HIM!!

Other thoughts & comments are welcome.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

When Is It Too Soon? Who Determines The Time In Which We Mourn?

When we have friends, spouses or family members diagnosed with a terminal illness are we prepared for everything that goes along with it? The time, the support, the love, the mental state of our friend, family member or spouse? Of course not.  I don't think anyone is fully prepared.

The reactions of all are so unpredictable. Are some of our reactions warranted?  Maybe, maybe not.  Personally I'm 50/50 on the issue.  There is no clearly defined path.

I reflect over the past 12 years in which my neighbors shared a part of my heart.  Shirley, given less than 5 years to live after a lung transplant,  outlived the odds.  She maintained and prepared her family as much as she could for things to come, as God prepared her for her journey.  December 16, 2010 we Celebrated Shirley's Life. No more pain, her spirit soaring high. Her family....feeling lost and alone, because their rock had to move on.  I watched her husband stagger to his feet as they closed her coffin, sobs to be heard outside of the sanctuary it seemed.   There was no doubt that Sam loved his wife.  No doubt that Sam was in love with his wife. The knowledge of his love for Shirley was not enough to prepare someone looking from the outside in for the sequence of events that occurred.  

Six months after Shirley was laid to rest another woman introduces herself as Sam's ex-wife and is now living with Sam.  The initial reaction on my part was a bit of anger encompassed by Whys, Hows and Blank Stares.   My anger subsided rather quickly. Why? Because I have not walked in Sam's footprint.  I cant say that I fully understand the pain he felt losing his wife to a well fought fight.  

A number of questions fall into play. These questions may not  exactly fit this scenario, but they are questions to think about nonetheless.   Was the relationship coming to a close prior to the diagnosis? Was the surviving spouse there to the end as support? Was there a decision made between the two, for the other to move on with their life as quickly as possible? We as the outsiders looking in truly do not know. Another thought, no matter how CLOSE we consider ourselves to be to any one person, no matter how much we THINK we know about any one person, we ONLY KNOW what they want us to know. I'm not discrediting the friendship wherein there is the feeling that we have been privy to most things, but it is what it is.  

It's human nature to hurt and ask why as a friend and on the behalf of the deceased. It's human nature to feel betrayed and feel as though the deceased has been betrayed. The feeling of betrayal cutting you so deep, I get it.  However I've had to ask myself on more than one occasion 'Are these actions, feelings and reactions in line with God's way?'.  It's actually a simple answer; yet an internal challenge.  

We are works in progress, we can't determine what time frame is or is not proper for grieving. It's in God's hands.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Positive Movement Forward

Everything in life is a process in motion.
Without movement & progression, there is no life.
As long as you are full of life and living, you are headed somewhere.
It's up to you to decide where you are going. 
It's up to you to enjoy yourself along the way.
It's up to you to Activate that progression with positive movement forward.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

A small saga to be heard
A young girl, dreaming of being a bird
Living a life
Deprived of strength and vitality
Eager to learn and to do what's right
Owning the hardship of caring for two
Options to abandon, would not do
A burning desire to go far
Escaping only while the door is ajar
Soaring above the emotional traffic jam in her heart
Only returning to extinguish the pain and
Encourage others to do their part
An empty nest would not be left
As mother placed her duties, atop a shelf
Freedom found
Heaven Bound

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Men, Women, Friends

The phrase "There is someone for everyone.", brings thoughts to mind. 

When you have a man and a woman who have been engaged in a long term friendship, is it right to cross the line?  Do you cross the line?

You complete each others sentences, you mirror the others soul.  You are struck by the thought of never having a love that makes you 'Breathless'.  As friends neither of you are completely oblivious to the chemistry that emits from a simple touch.  The energy that escapes is visible to outsiders.  Do you continue to torture your being or do you allow your eyes to speak with the rhythm of your heart? Act on it; try it on for size. 

My thought; communication is key.  Discuss your feelings before its too late or others are involved.  You are of course friends, you should be able to talk about anything.  You don't want an endless war of the heart. 

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Clouds That Carry The Rain
Hide The Sun
The Days Turn From Green to Brown
Bringing About Cool Nights and
Autumn Sounds



Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Transgender or Scantily Clad?


Which is more socially acceptable a scantily clad female bumping and grinding on national television or someone who has undergone gender reassignment?

Both receive quite a bit of criticism. It amazes me how in the 21st century, so many are such hypocrites.  Listening to excerpts of a few shows, it appears that the Dancing With The Stars viewers may boycott watching the show because Chaz Bono, 'Transgender', will be a dancer on dancing with the stars.  We have parents that speak of this no longer being a family show and they will not allow their children to watch it.  Why? Because YOU the parent are teaching your child to not treat everyone equally?  Without you as a parent advising your children that dancer so & so was born a female, how would the children know? Don't get it twisted, I am fully aware of children obtaining the information by other means, but most things begin in the home or should anyway.   

What's more damaging to a child's view, watching a man dancing across the stage or a female dressed with a smidgen more than pasties and a thong on gyrating across the stage? Humph, I would think the latter.  That's my opinion and I stand by it.

If you have opted to boycott the show, so be it.  You truly don't have to watch it, I'm sure there will be OTHERS that continue to boost DWTS's ratings when you are long gone.  OTHERS, that aren't living in primitive times and choose to accept others for the choices they have made instead of condemning them. 

The mindset of todays society is bound by a learned external power....Racism!

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Church or Chutch

Just a small minute since my last post.  A number of thoughts dancing through my mind one of which involves the church.  Yes that's right, Church.

I spent a number of years attending a Pentecostal Church.  Spending every Sunday without fail in Sunday School, Morning & Evening Service and sometimes afternoon programs as well.  Morning service lasting 'til 1:30-2:00 p.m., allowing you enough time to run home or to a nearby restaurant to grab a bite to eat before you were back by 3:00 or 4:00 depending upon what time the afternoon service started.  Those were the days when you were awakened to the sounds of James Cleveland, the smell of fried chicken for dinner, sausage for breakfast and maybe even some pancakes to go alongside that sausage. 

It's funny how times have changed.  We have churches that have more than one morning service to accommodate the growing congregations.  That one service at 7:45 a.m. which I choose to attend as I am an early bird which is considered 'The Hour of Power'.  No frills with this service unlike the regularly scheduled morning service at 10:30 a.m. It may only be an hour to an hour and a half, but I come away feeling like a freshly picked Georgia Peach, full of nutrients and freshness.  Now to me that's Church. 

Now let's tap into what would seemingly be the difference between Church and Chutch.  Some might say Church is where you have spent your time being filled with the Spirit, learned about His Greatness and heard a Joyful Noise from the Choir.  You have left feeling as I, the Georgia Peach, refreshed, renewed and Truly Blessed.  The Presence of the Lord is Here!

Chutch on the other hand  is attended by those trying to see what Fly suit Pastor  is adorned in.  Where Sister So & So is calling for a $2000-$5000 offerin' because Pastor chose to drive the Bentley and obtained a rock chip in his paint job and that same rock put a nick in his windshield.  Pastor has made it known that he now regrets driving the Bentley and should have driven the Escalade instead.  When you attend a Mega Chutch do you come away feeling nourished or just broke as you support your Pastor's High Standard of living?  I'm just sayin', food for thought.

Please do not think that these individuals are unable to provide you with the Word, because I am sure they are.  But are they actually Led by God, are they truly Anointed in their delivery?  

Humph...I know what my thoughts are, what are yours?  I am not a person to quote scriptures but I am a firm believer in God and his work.  And through my belief I am not inclined to believe that his work involves the million dollar home, with the vehicles to match and the suits not far from the same.  

So if you spend more preparation in trying to determine what label is in the back of Sister Sally's or Brother Harry's suit or the square footage of Deacon Joe's home one would conclude that you have not spent enough time preparing to receive the Word of God.   

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Mother, Daughter, Boyfriend, Cougar or Not?

What do we call the woman that sleeps with her daughters boyfriend?  Would it be proper to call her a cougar?  I have a number of distasteful names that I could call this type of woman, but I would prefer that someone else come up with their own names.

It should be noted that 1/3 of single women between the age of 40 and 60 are dating younger men.  However does this statistic make it okay to seduce your daughter's boyfriend?  I would say not.

It is my thought that a woman should be their to protect, love and nurture her children.  Not betray them, cause them harm or disown them. What would cause a woman to flaunt her affair with the daughter's boyfriend, play juvenile games by taunting her daughter.  Trying to injure her daughter by running her off the road in the boyfriend's car, then creating havoc in a local establishment. 

Are you insecure and jealous of your daughter?  Are you setting out to hurt her because she looks and reminds you of your ex-husband.  The same ex-husband that left you because you opted to cheat, steal and show no moral standards when it came to your marriage. 

It's a chance that there are some suppressed issues from childhood; however if this is the case, those issues need to be dealt with. Denial is not an option, nor disowning your own flesh and blood. 

,

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Her Biggest Hit Was About Her Problem

The title is part of a tweet I read the other day, in reference to Amy Winehouse and her song 'Rehab'. Oftentimes we forget that most things written are a direct result of an experience.  

I read a post from yet another social network, which started my wheels turning as usual.  We put so much time and emphasis into grieving or marveling over celebrities that have succumbed to death as a result of the over indulgence of drugs and alcohol.  We speak of how saddened we are that they have died at such an early age.  It's tragic! We have a '27 Club' for artists such as Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain and now Amy Winehouse has been added.  There are other individuals that are noted in this club that have not been mentioned in this post. Just keeping the list a bit short to prove a small point.  These are names that most people recognize and continue to speak of long after their passing. My question at this moment is, do you recognize the following names?:

Lisa Steinberg - NY, age 6
Annette Anderson - GA, age 37
Valerie Anne "Bubble" Barker - VA age 20
Layne Bryan Banik - NE age 2
Debra Breaux - AZ age 38
Jacob Breaux - AZ age 4
Melissa Breaux - AZ age 7
Tamara Nicole Zimmerman - SC 4 months
Kimberly Dabney - MD age 40
Darlene Dowsey - MD age 27
Carol Evans - OH age 72
Connie Bradway - NC 28(pregnant)

9 times out of 10 you don't recognize these names. The question is why?  I can tell you that from this list, Lisa Steinberg, died at the age of 6.  Lisa was unconscious, bruised and blue.  Allowed to be a victim of brutality, neglect and destruction. A senseless killing.  Her parents(adoptive) Joel Steinberg, a NY Attorney and Hedda Nussbaum a writer. Both Lisa and Hedda, victims of family and domestic violence.  Lisa had a baby brother found the same time his sister was, tied to a play pen with a rope, clothes soaked in urine and body covered in dirt.

Darlene Dowsey, age 27, mother of 2. Shot in the head by her estranged husband. Darlene tried to do everything right, protective orders, police attention, family support.  It wasn't enough.  I still see Darlene's smile, as she was always alongside my hairstylist working on her own clients head and telling jokes.    A senseless killing!

These names belong to those that were not celebrities belonging to the "I did everything right' club or the 'Many Reasons Why I Should Stay' club.  Yes, their biggest HIT was definitely about their problems. 

Do me a favor make a mental list.  Think of three women you know.  Consider.....statistically 1 out of every 3 American women has been a victim of domestic violence, is currently being abused or will suffer abuse during their lifetime.  Think of how much attention is paid to the victim whose protective orders lie at the bottom of a 12 inch stack of papers on a Friday afternoon, on the clerks desk.  The clerk decides to take an extended lunch, returns only to add more documents to the 12 inch stack instead of working through it.  Victim is shot and killed Monday morning, 7:30 a.m. as her child boards the school bus.

No One death is less or more important than the other; but more emphasis needs to be put on HOW to prevent such.  We have the ability to make a difference!

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

You Are Not The Father

Listening to a conversation between a group of young people. Young in the sense of twenty something. A few above the age of thirty.  I do not personally know these people and it's a good thing. My lack of knowing them assisted me in keeping my mouth shut just a little bit.


A young lady apparently calls a family meeting of sorts to discuss a delicate matter.  I will call the young lady Corrinne.  Corrinne has become aggravated that her child's father or so the family thought he (Kevin) was the father, has moved on and is about to marry and have a child by his fiance'.  Corrinne finds it in her heart to advise Kevin and his family that he is not the biological father of now 8 year old Courtney. Corrinne provides the family with paperwork to prove her thought provoking and hurtful topic.  This is not an episode of Maury Povich, Jerry Springer or the guy Steve from Jerry's show.  This is a true story.  Sad and true.


This young man has paid child support and taken care of this little girl as a father should, providing Courtney with his last name, only to have the rug pulled from under, sending him into a tailspin of overwhelming emotions.  The 8 year old Courtney that is in tears because of her father's outburst of obscenities followed by a broken table and tears. 
The immediate charge, of the aunt of 8 years, across the room as her fists meet with Corrinne's chest.  What mother would do this?  Why in a public place? Why after 8 years? Why the juvenile and petty animosity she has due to Courtney's father of 8 years wanting an opportunity to move on with his life?  The mentality of individuals today never ceases to amaze me. 

At this intersection in time I wanted to hug the little girl and her father.  Their worlds turned upside down.  The aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins in shock.  Life as they once knew it to be, is no longer.  

My thoughts...when you lay down with more than one person without any form of contraceptive during a two to three week span, you seem to be making an adult decision.  If you're adult enough to spread your legs, then you should be adult enough to face the consequences and truth that their is the possibility that you don't know who the father is of your unborn child.  Own up to that responsibility. Save yourself and those around you the heartache.    

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Soul Searching

Soul Searching, a means by which we bring about new principles of life, feelings, thoughts, actions and a revolutionary new vision and grace to relinquish us from the dark negative side of our natures.

With our search comes development of that kind of humility that makes it possible to receive God's help and nurturing.  We find that as time progresses we can discard the old life, the one that did not work, refused to work-replacing it with a new life that can and will work under conditions which we have known to be oppressive. 



 

Sunday, July 10, 2011

A Father's Love

Waking to the sound of the deepest voice in the house. 
One of the faces you see when you take your first step as a toddler.
The hand that reaches out to help you up when you wreck your bicycle once the training wheels have been removed.
The voice you hear in the stands cheering you on during a sandlot game.  "That's MY SON", "That's MY GIRL!". 
The one that bellows "That's not what we learned.  You know what I taught you!!! Let's make it happen!"
The third base coach in a softball game yelling "Dig, Dig, Dig!!!!" as you round third heading home.
The voice beside you in the passenger seat of the car trying to direct you while learning to drive a car, bellowing "STOP, STOP, STOP the damn car! You just added white walls to the tires. Get out, I'm driving!"
The voice of the man that puts the fear of GOD in his daughter's first date. "Don't make me dust my daughter for finger prints or any other substances when you get back!", as he answers the door with a machete in one hand and a chain saw in the other. 
The Man with his chest as high as the heavens when his son comes home with a four foot trophy and plaque acknowledging  he broke three cinder blocks with his bare hands.
The feeling of a father's embrace when you walk across the stage at graduation. 
The love you see in his eyes the day of your wedding. 

Funny....I'm unable to equate many of the moments mentioned to a father's love.  Those seem like moments that are monumental in a child's life.

My father's love is based solely on memories. 
Seeing my Dad stand beside his Dodge Charger or the Green Volkswagen Beetle.  The Beetle would creep me out a bit, only because it was always covered by caterpillars that fell from the trees.  Yuck!!

Finding out that my Dad was Santa Claus and racing my AFX Slot cars on the AFX Race Track that was in the dining and living room floor. 

Watching my Dad play recreational basketball and softball with his coworkers from Norfolk and Western Railways.  Spending time with him at work, walking across the breezeway that hovered over the train tracks. 

Listening to my Dad chuckle when I fell from my bike after he removed the training wheels.  A bit beside himself I might add.  I did fine until I realized he was no longer behind me.

Remembering his horizontal striped shirts which were ugly, his KOOL cigarettes, PBR's and Budweiser. I thought cigarettes labeled KOOL were kind of Cool and I remember the Pabst Blue Ribbon cans. 

The talks that were had prior to going out shopping.  Really it was my Dad & Mom talking, "Don't ask for nothin' because you ain't gettin' nothin'!"

The major fishing trip that my Dad & I took.  A charter on the Chesapeake Bay.  I didn't bait my hook, but I definitely caught the bulk of the fish.  Fun Times!

The deepest memory, seeing my father, a marine and Vietnam vet lying in uniform in a casket. He looked so handsome and sharp.  His expression, one of peace and love.  At the age of six one would not imagine that the expression of peace would make such a lasting impression, but for me it has. My Father's Love!! I'm fortunate to see my father every time I see my brother.  He could be my Dad's twin. 

For those of you that have the classic family household, don't take it for granted.  Cherish it!!!! When your father is around to watch and participate in your growth by leaps and bounds.  Embrace the love.  Don't push him away, include him in your thoughts and activities.  For the father's that for some reason or another opt not to be in the lives of their children, try changing before it's too late. 

Peace and Enjoy Your Father's Love!

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Mahogany Bliss

Heaven Divine
You have arrived
An angel in disguise
Your smile, brings about MY natural high.

Ebony eyes
Sweet mocha lips
Wrapped in your magic
And the rhythm of those hips.

That thing called love or lust
Appears like the hummingbird
Seeking that sweet berry nectar

Those arms, those hands
Familiar with the songs I sing

Soothing and comforting.

Lead me on my journey of the rolling hills
While I guide you through the valley low
Damn who knew I would miss that Mahogany Bliss.

Monday, July 4, 2011

Slavery Today

As I briefly scan an article regarding Slavery Today/Human Trafficking and browse through the comments I realize that so many are just oblivious to what is going on in today's world. 

Are we so ignorant to equate or compare slavery to religion or the lack there of?  Since when does someone's lack of religion solely promote slavery?  Perhaps I am the one being a bit naive in that respect.  Please note the sarcasm.  

Slavery, bondage, a victim induced into slave like exploitation through fraud, force or coercion.  Oftentimes victims are subject to physical abuse &/or psychological intimidation; wherein they are unable to free themselves from their current situation until they have conjured up enough strength or have obtained assistance from an outside source. 

It should be noted that in today's society there is no need for legal ownership as it was in the 1800's.  Now a child can be bought and sold for as little as $100 versus $1000 in the 1800's.  Slavery is now a global enterprise involving corrupt law enforcement, drug dealers, criminal gangs and families deprived of strength and vitality.  

One of the most prevalent forms of slavery in the U.S. is commercial sex exploitation.  This is a multi-billion dollar business involving young girls generally 18 years or younger, that have either been kidnapped or sold to the highest bidder by their families with the inability to afford to feed them.  We must not forget the children that have been orphaned as a result of natural disasters as the devasting earthquake in Haiti.  These problems create an ongoing source of ongoing supply for experienced traffickers.   

So for those that blame hinduism or any other religion for slavery as we know it today...I think you're wrong.  There are so many that do not claim to be Christians or part of any particular religious sector that are not involved in this way of life.  Then you have those that were raised in the Church that are.  I find this to be a choice.  A choice instituted by those without morals or a clear sense of what is wrong or right.  This is their (their being the traffickers) method of operation no matter how wrong it is or who it may hurt.  Of course this is my opinion and I'm entitled to it.

There are similarities to those enslaved to those that are victims of domestic violence, elder abuse & family violence.....Perhaps I will continue this on my next post.    
   

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Summertime - A Natural Aphrodisiac

Random thoughts

The weather has changed, some choose to move on, others choose to make the moves. 
Summertime, a natural aphrodisiac.

Is it the short flirty skirts and bare legs with strappy sandals that put it in motion for the men?
The thrust of the chest after the 5 am run and 6 am workout that emits the feeling of Cheyenne pepper for the ladies?
It's Summertime, a natural aphrodisiac.

Is it the smiles received from the eyes or just a matter of feeling good. The art of pleasing or receiving pleasure while listening to the melody of the summer breeze. Hmmmm.
It's Summertime, a natural aphrodisiac.

The dreams that set the stage.....sitting outside your door, the alluring scent of every inch or the sand beneath your feet while embraced by a rain shower.
It's Summertime, a natural aphrodisiac.

Oh my, Oh my.  Imagining encircling you with arms open wide. Imagine the satisfaction. No rush, no rush.  Head to toe....
That Summertime Aphrodisiac. 

Sunday, June 12, 2011

With Adversity Comes An Advantage And A Choice To Make A Difference

I'm winging it.  So much to say and oftentimes I just don't know where to start.  So here it goes.  There may be repetitious thought patterns, again so much to say with difficulty organizing those thoughts. 

In times of adversity we often find ourselves wallowing in self-pity, depressed and viewing life's events as a constant setback.  We allow adversity to take control creating self-doubt in conjunction with the self-pity.  We constantly ask the questions, "Why?", "Why Me?", "What did I do to deserve this?" Or the "I must not be living right." We can't allow adversity to weigh heavily upon our shoulders.  We must rise up and stand, facing it head on.  We must use it as a tool, a hammer to breakthrough that which is trying to hinder us.  The moment you allow adversity to plague you is the very same moment you have allowed your strength to falter. 

Cast out the self-pity and doubt.  Flourish in the fact that you have made a difference in someone elses life.  Relish in the fact that you have greatly influenced someone else that has come into your path.  You must realize that your path has already been charted so bask in the light, which guides you into the unbridled path that has been paved for you.  Your light is your strength, your faith and your ability to realize that others learn from you as you learn from them.  You may not know and you may not understand the purpose of your path but you must accept that which cannot be changed and caress that which can and move on.  We must focus on the positive within the negative and rebound from it.  

Adversity is a challenge to be conquered, pushed aside to make room for the next.  View it as a stimulant.  Without it, we often become too relaxed in our ways, taking life for granted and putting off that which can be done today for tomorrow, a tomorrow which is not promised.  Adversity should be looked at as a means of education.  It makes you think and of course when you think of ways to turn that negative into positive you are in turn stimulating your mind.   

The knowledge received from mischance is phenomenal.  From that knowledge you must take note that the simplest of conversations between you and a teenager, a co-worker, a friend will have a lasting impression.  There will always be something that you share with someone that educates another in some way, shape or form.  This should make you proud.  Proud of who you are, proud of what you have gained, proud of where you came from, proud of your ancestors that faced adversity in its most disapproving of times and proud to share your adverse moments with someone else as our ancestors shared their moments with us.  Remember when you help others you in turn help yourself.  

In the eyes of adversity you are vulnerable, you're a pawn in a game of chance.  However if you view adversity as an aggressive advantage you will come forth with vigor and education.  You will have the realization that soiled moments or passages in our lives can be cleansed and forever inspiring.  Once you bathe yourself in the inspiration received you will then find that not all is turmoil and tranquility will soon be a more frequent occurrence.  As time passes when someone asks, "Have you exercised your faith in the eyes of adversity?" you can say YES with conviction!

The sooner you take action and put your desires and dreams into play, the sooner you will see that adversity is truly a tool to aid you in your goals.  Not only will you be aggressively using it to your advantage but also you will have longer to enjoy your goals and dreams once attained.  Every day you allow your life to be ruled by adversity is a day YOU allow to pass without action and a day less you could be living with more joy, less pain and true happiness.  

It's a matter of choice.  You have the choice to make a difference.  You have the choice to change your life.  You have the choice to conquer and survive that which plants your feet in sinking sand.  You were chosen to make a difference in the lives of others.  And most importantly God chose you.  

So you can choose today to take control of your life, build upon your dreams and aspirations or you can wait until tomorrow, a tomorrow, which is not promised. Sitting back doing absolutely nothing wallowing in the turmoil that adversity has placed in your lap weighing you down, laughing at you as it takes full control.  The choice is yours! Make a difference!!

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Not So Subtle Thoughts

A virgin to the blog, yes that is what I am.  So forgive me if I falter. 

My mind races with pages of random thoughts, unsure of where to stop or to begin. Will wing it by wondering why so many females will in 'my' opinion degrade themselves to once again in 'my' opinion gain attention.

As I observe a number of women, young ladies, etc. I have noticed many, that have been in a relationship that did not end amicably, tend to offer themselves up to the next available bidder not the highest.  I see nothing more than a lot of self-degradation and I don't think they realize it. These young ladies find it increasingly necessary to outwardly express "I need a man!!", " Who wants to be my toy tonight?", "I'm down for the dirty" (I laughed when I heard that one), and in the words of Salt-n-Pepa, "I'll take yo man!!"  Really?  Is that truly necessary? These phrases don't scratch the surface of what I've heard. The words that escape from the mouths of these ladies is equally as degrading.  Sometimes worse than any sailor I have come across(no offense to the sailor).  

I wonder if they were to step outside of their box for a few minutes and view their photo op, would they be pleased?  Would men 'truly' find this culture of women attractive?

On the flip side, perhaps these tendencies and so called confident traits would be best suited for behind closed doors. I'm inclined to believe an ample amount of men would adore the sauciness of such in their mate. 

Keep in mind ladies, just as you may not want or be attracted to the man in the powder blue polyester suit, white socks and black Stacy Adams.  The man may not want or be attracted to the woman that wears 'NO CLASS'.

Don't feel that you are losing your identity by not being so crass, it's just a matter of identifying who you really are and wish to be.

Some may be offended others will just ponder.  Those that are offended will 9 times out of 10 be those that my thoughts apply to. 

I'm just sayin'...an observation made.