Literate Musings

Christmas: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2011-11-25T21:20:00.002-06:00

I'm so excited about Christmas that I put out my decorations two weeks before Thanksgiving. That's a record for me. Woo Hoo!

Just waiting for gifts to adorn the tree!

Celebrate the Reason for the Season!

The State of Being Thankful

2011-11-25T19:54:00.004-06:00

Doing good deeds doesn't always translate to folks being thankful for what you've done or are doing for them. Assistance comes in many forms but is not always appreciated by those whom you are trying to assist. Funny, isn't it? What I'm learning is that I have to give without expecting anything in return, even if it means that the receiver doesn't learn the lesson intended from my "gift", "assistance" or "help".

I'm thankful for another teachable moment and I'm also thankful for family, friends and trials. Each one has a way of testing our love, strength, and courage.

Back in Stride Again

2011-11-25T19:37:00.000-06:00

Hey Peeps,

Now that I've gotten my second wind you can expect to see new postings of my ramblings, prosaic thoughts, commentary and idle rants about life in general, or any thing that'll generate discourse among like- and not so like-minded folks. :-)

Talk to you later.

Successful Black Women Seeking Black Men . . .

2010-04-24T09:14:00.002-05:00

It seems that the quest for "black love" has gone mainstream. ABC's "20/20" recently broadcasted a "symposium" or "dialogue" on Can a Successful Black Woman Find a Black Man? Check it out. What do you think? Food for thought or just fodder?

For Hip Hop News & Entertainment at DimeWars.Com

Crazy is as Crazy Does

2009-12-05T10:27:00.004-06:00

Check out this story and see how easy it is to live up to your last name. If my last name is Creep, does it really mean that I'm a creep? Did he really think he was a boob?

Honorable Minster Louis Farrakhan on Barack Obama, Churches, and Satan

2009-10-25T10:54:00.003-05:00

I couldn't agree any more with Minister Farrakkan's words if I had voiced them myself. He's right on so many points. Stay tuned.

I'm Feeling Kinda Blue Today

2009-10-11T18:59:00.003-05:00

Not to be a downer, but I'm feeling a bit blue today. I guess I'm having a "blue day." So to help me get through this moment, I'm gonna listen to the blues man himself, Mr.Bobby "Blue" Bland.

Random Thoughts

2009-10-11T18:55:00.002-05:00

Word Association:

Knees
Ache
Leg
Tremble
Kiss
Love
Sweet
Michael
Honeymoon
Dreamin'
Sunset
Sunsrise
Promises
Hope

Long Time, No Hear or See

2009-07-19T21:27:00.005-05:00

I know it's been a minute -- okay, six months -- since I last posted, but I have a really good reason for why I haven't been online. Really. I've been busy pursuing higher learning.

Yep. I've had my nose in the books for the past nine-months immersed in leadership development program. And lemme tell you, this girl is now developed, in more ways than one. :-)

I'll tell you about my journey in another post, but I just wanted to send out a quick shout to let you know I'm back. So watch-out-der-now, it's on and crackin'. Holla back at me and let me know you're out there.

In Peace,

A newly developed and evolved Leader.

Hello, Mr. President!

2009-01-20T18:09:00.005-06:00

Former Senator Barack Hussein Obama took the oath of office today and became America's 44th President. Joined by his beautiful wife and First Lady, Michelle Obama, the attractive couple waved to the jubilant crowd estimated at over 1 million strong, who broke out into a chant of "O-BA-MA! O-BA-MA! O-BA-MA!"

What a day in American history!

Feds: Black man posed as white racist in threats

2008-11-15T13:02:00.002-06:00

11/14/2008, 3:11 p.m. CST
By KEVIN McGILL The Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A black man from Mississippi has been arrested and accused of sending racist death threats over the Internet to three black students at Louisiana's Nicholls State University.

The FBI in New Orleans said Dyron Hart, 19, was arrested Wednesday. He is accused of sending the messages by way of the students' Facebook accounts. The messages contained racial epithets and death threats and were sent to two black women and a black man at Nicholls State in Thibodaux, La.

The author of those messages cast himself as a white man who intended to kill blacks because Barack Obama was elected president.

Hart told an FBI agent that he sent the messages to "get a reaction," according to the agent's sworn statement.

The criminal complaint was filed in U.S. District Court in New Orleans. U.S. Attorney Jim Letten's office said Hart made his initial court appearance in Biloxi. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Golden in Mississippi said Friday that Hart was released on bond and was ordered to appear in federal court in New Orleans on Nov. 24.

Although the case sprang from a probe into messages sent to the three Nicholls State students, the FBI agent's statement said Hart also admitted sending the message to students at other institutions, including LSU, the University of Mississippi and the University of Alabama.

An FBI news release said Hart, if convicted, would face a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Repeatedly using an obscenity and the N-word, the author of the message threatens to kill more than 3,000 black people in a month because of Obama's election and warns the recipient of a pending attack from "a random white man," according to the agent's affidavit.

Neither Hart nor his family could not be reached for comment. The phone number listed at his home address was not in service. A message left Friday with Hart's court-appointed defense attorney was not immediately returned.

Colton Brodoux was the name of the person who purportedly sent the messages. "Hart admitted that he created the Colton Brodoux profile on Facebook," the FBI affidavit said. The document details how the FBI traced the messages back to a computer at Hart's Poplarville address in Mississippi.

Hello, Mr. President!

2008-11-05T06:21:00.004-06:00

The first Black president-elect of the United States of America and the first family. Simply beautiful! This is truly an awesome day in American history. Let us celebrate with dignity, respect, and a bravado that we've never experienced before.

God bless Barack Obama and God bless America!

May all who came before him rest peacefully knowing that their labor was not in vain. God bless Sojourner Truth. God bless Marcus Garvey. God bless Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. God bless my grandparents, Mr. Albert Owens and Mrs. Fannie Owens.

And God bless my dad, Nathaniel Owens, who did not get a chance to see a black man elected to the highest seat in the land.

Obama's Loss Traced to Undefined Voter

2008-10-29T11:30:00.003-05:00

Don't be an Undefined Voter. Vote Barack Obama on November 4th!

Hunt for Red October

2008-10-26T10:18:00.004-05:00

How desparate are the Republicans to win the U.S. Presidential election? See for yourself:

Crazy is as crazy does.

And how stupid is John McCain's brother, Joe? Listen for yourself.

David Alan Grier & Chocolate News

2008-10-14T17:22:00.003-05:00

I don't know what to say about this trailer. Check out the promo for David Alan Grier's new comedy, Chocolate News. I have always liked Grier from his early days with Robert Townsend to his "I've arrived" era on In Living Color with Keenan Ivory Wayans and Damon Wayans. But there's something about this trailer that doesn't sit well with me.

Maybe it's the old shtick of cooning and buffooning that has me scratching my head. No need to debunk any stereotypes here, especially since Grier appears to have pulled out all stops in that department. I guess I'll have to tune in to see how far Grier has grown or sunk as an actor/comedian.

What about you? What comes to your mind when you watch this promo?

Seeking Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

2008-10-03T15:18:00.003-05:00

Calling all cooks!

As the holidays approach, I'm looking to spice up my Thanksgiving and Christmas menus with some good ol' southern dessert. Does anybody have a good sweet potato pie recipe?

Please share.

Mental Hospital Phone Menu

2008-09-22T09:21:00.003-05:00

Hello and thank you for calling The State Mental Hospital. Please select from the following options menu:

If you are obsessive-compulsive, press 1 repeatedly.

If you are co-dependent, please ask someone to press 2 for you.

If you have multiple personalities, press 3, 4, 5 and 6.

If you are paranoid, we know who you are and what you want, stay on the line so we can trace your call.

If you are delusional, press 7 and your call will be forwarded to the Mother Ship.

If you are schizophrenic, listen carefully and a little voice will tell you which number to press.

If you are manic-depressive, hang up. It doesn't matter which number you press, nothing will make you happy anyway.

If you are dyslexic, press 9-6-9-6.

If you are bipolar, please leave a message after the beep or before the beep or after the beep. But Please wait for the beep.

If you have short-term memory loss, press 9.

If you have short-term memory loss, press 9.

If you have short-term memory loss, press 9.

If you have low self-esteem, please hang up. Our operators are too busy to talk with you.

If you are menopausal, put the gun down, hang up, turn on the fan, lie down and cry. You won't be crazy forever.

If you are blond, don't press any buttons. You'll just mess it up.

This coming week is National Mental Health Care week.

You can do your part by remembering to contact at least one unstable person to show you care.

(Well, my job is done . Your turn!!)

Okey Dokey Friday Jokey

2008-09-19T16:50:00.001-05:00

Art Imitating Life

2008-09-14T18:52:00.005-05:00

Former 'SNL' alumni Tina Fey nailed her impersonation of Gov. Sarah Palin during last night's opening. This is way too funny (and scary)!

"The Twist" top song of Billboard Hot 100 era

2008-09-12T07:45:00.008-05:00

Awwwwwwww, shookey shookey, now!

Chubby Checker's "The Twist" was named the top song of Billboard Hot 100 era.

"I'm glad they've finally recognized it," said Checker of his early 1960s hit. He compared "The Twist" — named by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum as one of the 500 songs that shaped rock 'n' roll — to the creation of the telephone as a groundbreaking moment because he said it was the first time people were dancing "apart to the beat."

The Billboard Hot 100 chart measures airplay and sales information (and more recently digital downloads) in determining the nation's most popular songs. To determine the most popular song of the Hot 100 era, Billboard used a formula to determine the top song — not always relying on weeks at No. 1 since the data was reported differently in its early days.

Sad Day for Detroit Politics

2008-09-04T12:02:00.008-05:00

The curtain has fallen on Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, who pleaded guilty today in a packed Detroit courtroom. The usually cocky and sometimes arrogant mayor was somber and contrite as he admitted to lying under oath.

Detroit Chief of Police Ella Bully Cummings retired immediately after the mayor's guilty plea.

As part of his plea, the mayor will pay $1 million in restitution, spend four months in jail, and surrender his law license.

Kwame Kilpatrick is now a convicted felon. His future in politics remain unclear.

The city now turns its attention to swearing in the new mayor, Kenneth Cockrel, city council president.

http://freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage

One heart, one widow connect suicides of two men

2008-08-31T20:53:00.008-05:00

By Allen G. Breed
Associate Press
updated 11:47 a.m. CT, Sun., Aug. 31, 2008

On an overcast spring morning in southeast Georgia, Sonny Graham drank some coffee and headed out the door for another day in the family landscaping business and to take his 9-year-old stepson to the dentist. But Graham made a detour to the backyard shed that he’d built.

There, the 69-year-old picked up the 12-gauge Remington shotgun he’d taken on so many quail- and dove-hunting trips, pointed the muzzle at the right side of his throat and pulled the trigger.

It was April Fool’s Day, almost exactly 13 years since another man’s suicide gave Graham a second chance at life

That man was Terry Cottle. When he ended his life, Graham got his heart.
But it was not just an organ that connected Graham and the 33-year-old donor. Nearly a decade after the transplant, Graham married Cottle’s young widow.

And now Graham had made her a widow again.

As word of his death spread, the Internet lit up with the story of the heart that had been twice silenced by suicide — and the woman who’d lost the same heart twice. Reporters and bloggers waxed on about “cellular memory” and whether the organ somehow held a “suicide gene.”

Nonsense, thought Cottle’s sister. The brain is where the conscience resides, where love and loss are felt; the heart is just a pump.

As far as she was concerned, Graham’s death was less about her brother’s heart than about Cheryl — the woman with whom both men had chosen to share it.

Click here to read the rest of the story.

Kwame Kilpatrick to plead guilty and leave office

2008-08-31T12:53:00.006-05:00

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is believed to have reached a plea deal. He will admit guilt, resign, pay restitution, and more.

Click here to read the article.

Barack Obama's Missed Opportunity

2008-08-31T12:20:00.008-05:00

During Barack Obama's historic acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention in Denver last week, he missed an opportunity to acknowledge the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by failing to invoke King's name in his speech. It would seem that he left that up to the white speakers: Hilary Clinton, Bill Clinton, and Joe Biden.

Dr. Cornel West and Dr. Julianne Malveuax suggests that Senator Obama missed a golden opportunity to link the past with the present, but instead chose to distant himself from history by targeting white centrists.

Do you think Senator Obama's speech "appealed to the white center"? Did he fail to "connect historically" with Blacks as suggested by West and Malveuax?

Take a listen and tell me what you think.

While You Were Sleeping . . .

2008-08-27T06:30:00.002-05:00

. . . here's what happened:

US military deaths in Iraq war at 4,147

Dr. Dre's 20-year old son found dead

Former Portland Trail Blazer Keven Duckworth dies at 44

Former NBA player has part of leg amputated

US judge: No delay in White House subpoenas case

No bond for mother accused of trying to sell girl

Jodeci's Back . . . or Not

2008-08-24T18:42:00.004-05:00

It's reunion time! And like most reunions, whether it's family or band mates, you know somebody's going to show their azz. You can almost always bet that somebody will show up drunk, high as a kite, ready to rumble, or looking and acting like a prima donna. Either way, you know you're in for an interesting time.

Well, from the looks of this video I think JoJo from the famed 90's group, Jodeci, showed his azz big time. He collapses midway through the performance. I hope he's okay. All jesting aside, I hope he's now clean and sober.

Check this out.

Word Association

2008-08-23T12:36:00.002-05:00

Man-eater
Cougar
Youth
Maturity
Seasoned
Fries
Hamburger
Ketchup
Gaining ground
Losing ground
Meal Ticket
Hot Item
Wassup
What's Down
Never Give Up
Pressing Forward

Enough Already!

2008-08-15T16:48:00.013-05:00

Dear Honorable Kwame Kilpatrick:

The great citizens of the city of Detroit deserve better!

Do the right thing and resign today. How much more embarrassment and dishonor will you heap upon the taxpayers? This great city -- which struggles each day to find a new identity in the wake of a dying automotive industry -- loses its respectability each day that you're in office. Formerly a mecca for attracting large companies, the cityscape now serves as a backdrop and sad reminder of a once prosperous metropolis. Oddly enough, somehow it seems to now serve as a metaphor for your life today. Do the honorable thing, Mr. Mayor. Resign.

We had such high hopes for you when you rode into the city as Detroit's youngest mayor. With your beautiful wife by your side and a family name rooted in Detroit politics, the city of Detroit welcomed you as the big, strong, handsome former football captain of Florida A&M University. Armed with a law degree from Detroit College of Law and a resume befitting a black urban political professional, for many of us you represented a new Detroit.

As a young and vibrant do-gooder with a heart for children, your record as a state representative proved that you had political chops. Ten years ago you helped develop the $675 million Clean Michigan Initiative. You managed to designate more than half of the funds to Detroit; both Michigan's largest city and the one most in need. And you weren't shy about helping to secure millions of dollars to fight lead poisoning in the city. At the time, more child-related lead poisoning cases were reported in Detroit then throughout the rest of the state combined.

Thirty-one years old when elected mayor of Detroit, you were the first youngest mayor of Detroit and second youngest mayor of any U.S city. You were just twenty-six years old when elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, and later served as the leader of the Democratic Caucus.The first African American to hold a leadership position in the Michigan Legislator.

And like so many young, political proteges, your career in politics was boundless. You even spoke briefly at the 2004 Democratic convention just like my former congressman, Harold Ford, Jr. (D-TN), who was touted as a future presidential running mate. But also like so many young -- and old -- politicians, once elected the bloom is off the rose. During your first term, Mr. Mayor, you seemed to use the city coffer as your own personal bank account, racking up more than $200,000 on a city-issued credit card for travel, meals, and entertainment. Jet setting from city to city, hobnobbing with the rich and famous, and often seen getting your groove on at celebrity hosted events, all while the taxpayers picked up the bill.

Now in your second term, you're still acting up. With a steadily declining approval rate, did you really think that you could continue your shenanigans and the people would turn a blind eye? Come on. Get real. And did you really think you could end a veteran police officer's career with a few "choice words", have an affair with your long-time friend, lover, and former chief of staff, lie under oath about it, and get away with it? Your poor behavior and misconduct has cost the city over $8 million.

I won't even dwell on your recent foolish behavior: assaulting a police officer, witness tampering, and disrespecting the court. And you have the nerve to want to attend the Democratic National Convention. Get real. As if the Democrats need another side show! We already have The Hillary Show. No More Drama.

Enough is enough, already! Please stop the madness.

Kwame, please do the honorable thing and a step down now. Let the good citizens of Detroit heal and move forward. You have become a distraction and an embarrassment to the city and most definitely for your family. If you won't think about the citizens of Detroit, at least think about how this is affecting your wife and children. What a legacy to leave.

It's time to get off the train, Mr. Mayor. Your ride is up.

Sincerely,

Literate Muse
A Very Disgusted Detroit Sympathizer

Soul Singer and American Icon Isaac Hayes dies at age 65

2008-08-10T19:59:00.011-05:00

The legendary soul singer, Isaac Hayes, Jr., who began life in a tenement in Covington, Tennessee but later went on to win an Oscar and multiple Grammys, died suddenly today at his home near Memphis, Tenn.

Best known for the theme song from the 1971 movie Shaft, Hayes started his music career as an untrained musician. He wanted to become a doctor until he realized his musical talents during a ninth-grade talent show. As he developed as a musician so did his rich, baritone voice. His trademark sound and look (bald head and gold chains) was captured on his hit album "Hot Buttered Soul", which later became the name of his radio program during his stint as a radio personality.

Hayes was a gifted singer and songwriter. He penned memorable songs for notable singers, like "Hold On, I'm Comin'" for Same & Dave.

Hayes, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, was pronounced dead at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis in Memphis, Tenn., after collapsing Sunday afternoon near a treadmill in his home nearby.

This weekend has been simply awful. We've lost two iconic personalities -- Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes -- in less than 48 hours. Both men were still quite young and had so much to offer. Now we'll never hear the new comedy routine Bernie was working on. And we'll never know the genius of another Isaac Hayes.

When I first moved to Memphis, I had the great pleasure of meeting Mr. Hayes. He was very gracious and personable, and reminded me much of my own Dad. His sense of humor was off the chain and he couldn't resist looking at a pretty woman, at least that's what he said when a friend snapped our picture -- just me and Black Moses.

I will always cherish that photograph.

As my thoughts and prayers turn to his family, and Bernie Mac's family, I am comforted by knowing that the time these two genuine spirits spent here on earth is forever memorialized on wax, television, videos, Cd's, film, and in our hearts.

R.I.P.

Comedian and Actor Bernie Mac Dies at age 50

2008-08-09T10:23:00.005-05:00

The lovable and very funny comedian, Bernie Mac, who won a Peabody for his hit television comedy, The Bernie Mac Show, died Saturday at age 50.

"Actor/comedian Bernie Mac passed away this morning from complications due to pneumonia in a Chicago area hospital," his publicist, Danica Smith, said in a statement from Los Angeles.

She said no other details were available and asked that his family's privacy be respected.

The comedian suffered from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung disease that produces tiny lumps of cells in the body's organs, but had said the condition went into remission in 2005. He recently was hospitalized and treated for pneumonia, which his publicist said was not related to the disease.

Mac was one of the original Kings of Comedy and brought a unique brand of humor to his comedy. His humor was bold and straight in your face and he didn't mince his words. He rarely apologized for saying what he meant. Mac said what he meant and he meant what he said. And if you didn't like cussing and fussing then you probably wouldn't have liked Bernie Mac's humor.

He reminded me of comedians Redd Foxx, Robin Harris, and Richard Pryor.

Today the world is less funny without Bernie Mac to make us laugh.

R.I.P. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Okey Dokey Friday Jokey

2008-08-08T08:23:00.000-05:00

Angry man shoots lawn mower for not starting

2008-07-29T19:31:00.012-05:00

July 25, 2008 1o:41 PM EDT

MILWAUKEE - A Milwaukee man was accused of shooting his lawn mower because it wouldn't start. Keith Walendowski, 56, was charged with felony possession of a short-barreled shotgun or rifle and misdemeanor disorderly conduct while armed.

According to the criminal complaint, Walendowski said he was angry because his Lawn Boy wouldn't start Wednesday morning. He told police quote, "I can do that, it's my lawn mower and my yard so I can shoot it if I want."

A woman who lives at Walendowski's house reported the incident. She said he was intoxicated.

Walendowski could face up to an $11,000 fine and six years and three months in prison if convicted.

A call to Walendowski's home went unanswered Friday morning.

Bow Down and Worship Him - Bishop Paul S. Morton

2008-07-25T21:06:00.000-05:00

Behold the Lamb of God

2008-07-25T20:58:00.000-05:00

Something About the Name Jesus

2008-07-25T20:51:00.002-05:00

Miracle Worker - The Rance Allen Group

2008-07-25T20:38:00.002-05:00

Definitely NOT Employee of the Month!

2008-07-22T16:00:00.006-05:00

Former CBS anchor, Larry Mente, was charged with snooping on his colleague, co-anchor Alycia Lane of CBS-3 (KYW) Philadelphia affiliate. Mendte is being charged with a felony in a computer tampering investigation of Lane. He illegally accessed Lane's personal computer more than 500 times starting in March 2006 and printed and shared some of the emails with other sources, including attorneys prosecuting Lane for assaulting a police officer.

Mendte was indicted in May and was officially charged with a felony today. He is expected to cooperate with the U.S. Attorney's office and and will turn himself in.

Geesh! And you thought you worked with some bad apples? I guess the moral of this story is to ask before you snoop.

Florida Officer Fired for Demanding Free Coffee

2008-07-21T07:24:00.004-05:00

According to the Associated Press, an internal affairs report says a Daytona Beach [Florida] police officer demanded free coffee and tea from a Starbucks and threatened employees with slower emergency response times if they refused.

Lt. Major Garvin, a 15-year veteran, was fired July 8. According to the Daytona Beach News-Journal, Chief Mike Chitwood says Garvin recently failed a polygraph test that he insisted on taking.

The coffeehouse's employees claim that since June 2007, Garvin had visited the store as many as six times a night while on duty. Besides demanding free drinks, workers complained that

Garvin also cut in front of paying customers.

A telephone listing for Garvin could not be found

I guess he wanted FREE coffee to help wash down all those doughnuts. It's a good thing that a liquor store wasn't on his route, he probably would have demanded free booze.

Another dirty cop off the streets.

What the Eff?

2008-07-20T20:33:00.003-05:00

Gay Man Sues Bible Publishers

In another frivolous lawsuit filed in a U.S. court, a gay man from Canton, Michigan is suing popular Christian publishers Zondervan and Thomas Nelson Publishing for $70 million. He claims that the publishers are violating his constitutional rights and causing emotional pain, because the Bible versions they publish refer to homosexuality as a sin.

Folks, I didn't make this up. Read the article.

Go Run Tell That!

2008-07-20T17:33:00.007-05:00

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was the first black fraternity founded at a Historically Black College or University. Anthony Johnson, a Nu Psi Chapter (Virginia State University) frat member, gives an oral history:

Visit Nu Psi Chapter's web site at http://www.ques-nupsi.org/.

Omega's Psi Phi National Web Site: http://www.omegapsiphifraternity.org/.

A King's Ransom

2008-07-17T20:23:00.007-05:00

I'm sure Coretta and Martin are turning over in their graves saddened by the public spectacle their children are making of themselves.

Martin Luther King III and his sister, Rev. Bernice King, last week filed a lawsuit against their brother, Dexter Scott King, claiming he mishandled thousands of dollars from their mother's estate and Dr. King's estate and used it for his own personal use.

Dexter denies the claims and says his siblings have equally benefited from funds from their mother's estate. He feels maligned and believes his brother and sister are talking recklessly about him and plans to clear his name.

http://www.ajc.com/search/content/metro/atlanta/stories/2008/07/15/King_siblings.html

Let's hope the family can reach an understanding without airing any more dirty laundry.

Blog Shout Outs

2008-07-11T00:27:00.002-05:00

Shout Outs to my favorite blog sites and why I like 'em.

Abstractions of a Bohemian Hippie Chick. Why I like this blog? Because the writing is clever and the author is down with natural hair!

Invisible Woman. This blog offers a fresh, funny, and colorful insight on Black cinema. You won't find a blog like this in YOUR neighborhood.

My Urban Report. Another great blog! The vibrant colors alone will draw you in, but it's the subject matter that makes you stay. It's news from "another shade of information."

SheGeeks. A very informative site. This young urban sistah is making her mark in the world of social media and technology blog.

American Medical Association Apologizes to Black Doctors

2008-07-10T07:48:00.005-05:00

The AMA on Thursday issued a formal apology for more than a century of discriminatory practices that excluded blacks from participating in a group long considered the voice of U.S. Doctors.

It's about time!

AMA Apologizes to black doctors

Mildred Loving, Matriach of Interracial Marriage, Dies

2008-07-07T09:47:00.021-05:00

I was just made aware of Mildred Loving's passing while reading another blog. Somehow I missed the media coverage or perhaps the media provided little coverage of the untimely passing of Mrs. Loving.

Mildred Jeter Loving, 68, an unlikely heroine for social change who set the wheels in motion for the landmark Loving v. Virginia case that challenged and eventually overturned the ban on interracial marriage, died of pneumonia May 2, 2008 at her home in Milford, VA.

For those of you who are not aware of the significant role Mildred Jeter Loving played in American history, let me remind you who Mrs. Loving was.

Mildred Loving (June 22, 1939 - May 2, 2008), with her husband Richard Perry Loving (October 29, 1933 - June 29, 1975) filed and won a landmark U.S court appeal in defense of their interracial marriage that became the legal standard used to eradicate all laws against such marriages in the United States.

Mildred Jeter and Richard Loving first met when she was 11 and he was 17. He was a family friend and over the years they started courting.[1] They lived just north of Richmond in the Commonwealth of Virginia, where interracial marriage was banned by a 1924 statute. When Mildred was 18 she became pregnant, and the couple decided to marry, traveling out of Virginia to do so. Mildred later stated that she did not know it was illegal when they got married in 1958, but she believed her husband did.[2] They returned to Virginia and were arrested in the middle of the night by the county sheriff, who had received an anonymous tip.[3] They moved to Washington DC after pleading guilty to being married and being banned from living together in their home state, but returned to Virginia after the Supreme Court decision.

Mildred considered her marriage and the court decision to be God’s work, and she supported everyone’s right to marry whomever they wished.[4] She told the Washington Evening Star in 1965, when the case was pending, “We loved each other and got married. We are not marrying the state. The law should allow a person to marry anyone he wants.”[2]

On June 12, 2007, Mildred Loving issued a public statement for the 40th anniversary of the Loving v. Virginia Supreme Court decision, commenting on same-sex marriage.[5] Her statement concluded:

Surrounded as I am now by wonderful children and grandchildren, not a day goes by that I don’t think of Richard and our love, our right to marry, and how much it meant to me to have that freedom to marry the person precious to me, even if others thought he was the “wrong kind of person” for me to marry. I believe all Americans, no matter their race, no matter their sex, no matter their sexual orientation, should have that same freedom to marry. Government has no business imposing some people’s religious beliefs over others. Especially if it denies people’s civil rights.

I am still not a political person, but I am proud that Richard’s and my name is on a court case that can help reinforce the love, the commitment, the fairness, and the family that so many people, black or white, young or old, gay or straight, seek in life. I support the freedom to marry for all. That’s what Loving, and loving, are all about.

Mildred and Richard Loving had three children, Donald, Peggy and Sidney. Richard Loving died when a drunken driver struck their car in 1975; Mildred Loving lost her right eye in the same accident.

From Harvard to Ebonics in Three Seconds

2008-07-06T21:47:00.003-05:00

Check out this video clip of an educated Negro newscaster talking mess.

Cockroach vs. Gay Weatherman

2008-07-06T21:01:00.006-05:00

Let's get ready to rumble!

In this corner we have the champion, a multi-legged, multi-generational Cockroach, weighing less than one ounce. In the other corner we have the challenger: An effeminate Gay weatherman wearing a tight brown suit and overly processed hair, weighing in at a whopping 145 pounds.

Folks, it looks like this lopsided match-up may be one for the history books!

And the winner is . . .

Spencer Haywood, a Forgotten NBA Legend

2008-07-04T17:28:00.011-05:00

I pride myself on being a moderately informed sports fan. I mean, I'm no sports junkie, mainly I watch professional basketball and little else. But since I was introduced to the NBA some 35 years ago that probably makes me more of basketball fan than anything else. I was nine years-old when I saw my first NBA game. It was a televised series between Boston Celtics and the Milwaukee Bucks, a best of seven series that lead to Boston winning another NBA World Championship.

I was fascinated by the unselfish team play and camaraderie shown by the Celtics. Boston's arsenal included Hall of Fame players Dave Cowens, JoJo White, John Havlicek, and Paul Westphal. All were excellent players and a collective force to be reckoned with.

And speaking of force, does anyone remember Spencer Haywood?

According to NBA.com's web site, on the court, Spencer Haywood was such a devastating force in his prime that no opponent could defend him or keep him off the boards. Off the court, he had a lasting effect on the game of basketball, largely because he provided the 1970 legal test case that opened the NBA to undergraduate college players.

Spencer Haywood has won an NBA championship and a gold medal. At his best Haywood was as dominating as they come. As a 20-year-old rookie in 1969-70 he led the American Basketball Association in both scoring and rebounding and was named the ABA's Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year.

After moving to the NBA he averaged better than 20 points for five consecutive seasons, including 29.2 ppg in 1972-73, and he was twice selected to the All-NBA First Team.

Haywood was born into a family of 10 children on April 22, 1949, in tiny Silver City, Miss. The rural poverty called hard time Mississippi by Stevie Wonder in "Living For the City" struck true for the Haywood family. Taking the opportunity to escape the stifling conditions at the time in the rural South, Haywood at age 15 went to Chicago and then to Detroit to live with his brother. In the Motor City, he led his Pershing High School to the 1967 Michigan Class A championship.

He spent a year at Trinidad State Junior College in Colorado, where he tallied 28.2 points and 22.1 rebounds per game. In the summer of 1968, Haywood helped the United States to a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Mexico City. He moved on to the University of Detroit for 1968-69, where as a sophomore he scored 32.1 ppg and led the nation in rebounding with an average of 21.5 rpg. Feeling that he had accomplished all that he needed to at the college level, Haywood passed up his final two years of eligibility to sign with the ABA's Denver Rockets.

Haywood joined the ABA in 1969-70 and had a phenomenal first season. He was the league's Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player. He also won the ABA scoring title with an average of 30.0 ppg, and he led the league in rebounding with a remarkable 19.5 rpg to set the ABA's all-time record. The next season the 21-year-old Haywood shook up both the ABA and the NBA when he left the Rockets to sign with the NBA's Seattle SuperSonics.

At the time, the NBA prohibited the drafting or signing of a player before his college class had graduated. Haywood's class wouldn't graduate until the end of the 1970-71 campaign, but the Sonics signed him anyway. The NBA league office and other NBA teams opposed the move, protesting that it violated existing rules and that, since Haywood hadn't gone through a draft, the Sonics had no right to him.

The NBA took Haywood and the Sonics to court. The argument in Haywood's favor was that, as the sole wage earner in his struggling family, he was a "hardship case" and therefore had a right to begin earning his living. The Supreme Court ruled in Haywood's favor, forever altering professional basketball.

Beginning in 1971, underclassmen were allowed to enter the NBA Draft provided they could give evidence of "hardship" to the NBA office. In 1976 the hardship requirement was eliminated in favor of the current Early Entry procedure, whereby any athlete with remaining college eligibility can enter the NBA Draft on the condition that he notifies the league office at least 45 days before the draft.

But before the final legal decision, Haywood would encounter a lot of hostility from the general public about his attempts to play in the NBA. However, after finally being cleared to play late in the 1970-71 season, Haywood joined the Sonics and averaged 20.6 ppg over the final 33 games. The five years he spent with Seattle represented the most stable and productive period of his career -- he made four NBA All-Star Teams, two All-NBA First Teams and two All-NBA Second Teams.

In 1971-72, his first full NBA season, Haywood scored 26.2 ppg and grabbed 12.7 rpg. The next year he was unstoppable, pouring in 29.2 ppg (third in the league behind Nate Archibald and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) and pulling down 12.9 rpg. His most effective shot was a turnaround jumper in which Haywood took advantage of his height and reach to extend above the defender before lofting a soft arc toward the hoop. He scored 51 points against the Kansas City-Omaha Kings that year. The Sonics, however, finished with a 26-56 record, 34 games out of first place in the division.

Haywood continued to provide stellar play. In 1973-74, his scoring average dropped to 23.5 ppg, but he increased his rebounding to 13.4 rpg, sixth in the NBA. The Sonics finished 36-46 under new coach Bill Russell and missed the playoffs again.

His most effective shot was a turnaround jumper in which Haywood took advantage of his height and reach to extend above the defender before lofting a soft arc toward the hoop.

Haywood and Russell made history in 1974-75 when they led Seattle to its first playoff berth in the team's eight-year existence. Haywood was dominating as usual, averaging 22.4 ppg and 9.3 rpg and earning his fourth straight trip to the NBA All-Star Game. The Sonics finished 43-39 and actually made some noise in the postseason, bumping off the Detroit Pistons in the first round before losing to the eventual NBA-champion Golden State Warriors in the conference semifinals.

After that season, Haywood was traded to the New York Knicks for cash and a draft choice. In the Big Apple he led the life of a star. He married glamorous fashion model Iman, and the celebrity couple were regulars on the social scene. But New York acquired Bob McAdoo during the 1976-77 season, and the Knicks found themselves with two high-scoring forward. In the middle of the 1978-79 campaign, Haywood was swapped to the New Orleans Jazz for Joe C. Meriweather. When the Jazz moved to Utah for the next season, Haywood was sent to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Adrian Dantley.

He averaged only 9.7 points in a limited role with the Lakers in 1979-80 but earned his only championship ring that year.

Haywood spent the 1980-81 campaign playing in Italy and working toward returning to the NBA. He played 76 games with the Washington Bullets in 1981-82 and 38 more the following season. He was waived in March 1983, then retired from the NBA with 14,592 career points and 7,038 rebounds.

Prior to retiring, however, Haywood got caught up in drugs. While playing for New York he was introduced to cocaine and eventually his drug use began to effect his play. Over the years his stats steadily declined and he played at a journeyman's level.

After retiring from playing in 1983, Haywood became involved in real estate development in Detroit, and wrote his autobiography, Spencer Haywood: The Rise, the Fall, the Recovery.

Today, Haywood lives in the Detroit suburbs with his second wife of 15 years, Linda. He's a family man with three daughters at home, Nikiah, 21, Shaakira, 15, and Isis, 12, and another, Zulekah, 26, from his previous marriage

I wasn't aware of the great impact Spencer Haywood had on the game of basketball until I logged onto NBA.com. I knew about his problems with drugs, but I had no idea that he was a trailblazer. Knowing what I now know, in my opinion Haywood's autobiography should be required reading for today's college athlete. His legacy serves as a reminder that had it not been for him, their asses wouldn't be in the NBA today living large and making all that cheddar.

Spencer Haywood is an NBA legend and trailblazer. He should not be forgotten.

Big Day for Smokey

2008-06-30T07:08:00.006-05:00

Today's the day that my seven-month old Shih Tzu, Smokey, gets neutered. Although I have mixed reservations about stopping his reproduction system, I do recognize the advantages of spaying and neutering our pets. According to my veterinarian, neutering a male reduces the risk of both prostate enlargement and prostate cancer. I'm told that neutering also will make your pet more affectionate and less likely to roam, get in fights, or become lost.

Please say a prayer for my pooch as he goes under the knife this morning. As my neighbor said (while talking to his female dog), "Take a look at Smokey, because when you see him again he won't be the man he used to be."

4 Worst Sitcoms Ever

2008-06-28T11:29:00.012-05:00

In the name of all things pure and holy, how does a bad situation comedy finds its way on air? Just looking at the quality of these shows one immediately can tell it's not about art or posterity. These whack-ass sitcoms should have never made it past the pilot episode. Yeah, they served a purpose. They created jobs for talentless writers and bad actors, and in some cases, good writers and talented actors fell victim, too. Amazingly these humorless comedies liberally laced with laugh tracks and feigned audience interest appear regularly on prime time television, either in syndication or regular season.

I guess like most things bad sitcoms have their place in society. Fortunately for the "hired help" like the grips, lighting technicians, hairstylists, costume designers, production assistants, make-up artists, et. al., it makes for steady employment.

Here is my list of the 4 Worst Sitcoms Ever:

4. Reba. This whack-ass sitcom has been on the WB network for the past several years. It started n 2001 and ended last year. It stars country singer Reba McEntire as a single mom raising three kids, but keeping an eye on a son-in-law, a granddaughter, an ex-husband and an ex-husband's neurotic wife. 'Reba' began with the Hart family in the midst of a divorce as Texas soccer mom Reba watched her white-picket-fenced world collapse before her very eyes. Her dentist husband, Brock(Christopher Rich), left her after what she thought was 20 happy years of marriage for his impossibly perky and unfortunately pregnant dental hygienist, Barbra Jean (Melissa Peterman). The cherry on top of this bitter sundae was the pregnancy of Reba's then 17-year-old daughter Cheyenne (JoAnna Garcia) and her decision to marry her high school football star boyfriend, Van (Steve Howey). Rounding out the happy brood is teenage Kyra(Scarlett Pomers), who continues to greet puberty with venom, and son Jake (Mitch Holleman).

Where's the humor in that scenario? Ask the writers, cause watching an episode of Reba is like visiting the dentist office. You know it's gong to be painful, so you just grin and bear it.

3. She's the Sheriff. Starring an ageless Suzanne Sommers cast as Hildy Granger, a young wife suddenly widowed with two children to support. Her employment worries end when the Commissioner of Lakes County, Nevada (near Lake Tahoe), offers to appoint her sheriff, the job held by her husband until his untimely death. Hildy accepts the position and is immediately forced to handle the daily problems of both locals and tourists, with extra trouble created by the four deputies on her staff. In addition, Hildy has regular battles with work colleague Max Rubin, who doesn't feel Hildy should be in the job.

Okay. Once again, where's the humor? This sorry sitcom lasted 44 episodes! Thank goodness it never made its way to syndication.

2. The Ropers. Simply horrible. A spin-off from Three's Company, 'Three’s Company' landlords Stanley and Helen Roper leave the apartment complex and move into a new one. Still the same Roper dynamic, but without the Three’s Company gang. Not funny. Without the ensemble cast from 'Three's Company', this sitcom fell flat. It only lasted one season.

1. Cavemen. Enough said. This bad sitcom was derived from a series of funny commercial ads for GEICO Insurance. What started as a good commercial ended as one of the worst sitcoms ever. How interested would you be in watching the perils of cavemen as the maneuver through a modern day big city? Get real!

Tell me, which sitcom would you like to see added to the list and why?

An Obama Love Story

2008-06-28T10:55:00.005-05:00

Okay, so I've posted twice in a row about Obama. Don't strangle me.

I ran across this lovely video while trolling YouTube and immediately thought, "Wow! What a homage to love." It's a pictorial salute to love accompanied by a beautiful ballad sung by Clay Aiken. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. What I enjoy most about the tribute is 1) The strong and positive images of black family and black love, and 2) The words of the song.

Watch and listen for yourself.

Enjoy!

Obama Passes the Litmus Test

2008-06-27T18:16:00.011-05:00

Several months ago when Barack Obama appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show he made a powerful statement. It wasn't so much what he said, but what he did. He showed the viewing audience that he has soul. And how does a black politician show that he has soul? He dances.

I'm not kidding. The Democratic presidential hopeful breaks out in a dance. Initially he looks pretty awkward, stiff and not very soulful. But when Ellen rolls up to him and starts her signature dance, Brotha Barack starts getting down. I mean he really gets down. He throws his hands up, shakes his hips and starts poppin' his fingers. You know. The cool brotha in the club dance. In essence, he got his groove on.

So for all you haters out there who keep saying that Barack ain't a brotha, y'all need to stop. See for yourself. Barack Obama is really Black. And he can dance, too . . . for a White guy.

Officer Fired for Beating Transgendered Woman

2008-06-27T08:37:00.006-05:00

The Memphis Police Department has done the right thing. Officer Bridges McRae has been fired for using excessive force in the videotaped beating of Duanna Johnson, a transgendered former prostitute.

Although it took four months for the department to take action, the administrative hearing officers apparently only needed two hours. In an administrative hearing held on June 25, Officer McRae learned his fate: It ain't cool to beat-up a detainee and keep your job. During the proceedings, McRae wanted to speak in his defense but his attorney advised against it. He now plans to appeal his termination.

Johnson says she feels somewhat vindicated by the department's decision to fire McRae, but plans to continue with her $1.3 million lawsuit against the MPD. The FBI has also been called in to investigate to determine if Johnson's civil rights were violated.

Another bad cop off the streets.

Do you think it's ever warranted or necessary for police to use excessive force?

http://www.wreg.com/Global/story.asp?s=8556748

Transgendered Female Takes a Beating

2008-06-22T11:18:00.007-05:00

Things are getting ugly here in Memphis, Tennessee.

What is the world coming to when a woman can’t walk down the street without being picked up and beaten by the police?

Duanna Johnson, a 6-foot-5-inch transgendered woman, was arrested in February on a charge of prostitution. What ensued next is a nightmare that Johnson, 42, will never forget. For 18 minutes, Memphis police officer Bridges McRae beat Johnson because she refused to stand up. The whole incident was caught on a security surveillance video and was released last week by Johnson’s attorney.

The raw footage of the beating has outraged Memphians and the gay and lesbian community. The FBI has been called in to investigate and civil rights organizations vow to seek justice. They want the officer fired. Instead, for the past four months, McRae has been assigned to desk duty pending an administrative hearing.

Johnson is suing the City of Memphis Police Department for $1.3 million.

Johnson said she wasn’t “working” that night but was just walking down the street when McRae approached her and took her in for solicitation.

Johnson was born a male but has been living life as a female for the past 17 years. She said she is used to people staring at her but she has never experience such blatant disrespect and humiliation. She said McRae kept referring to her as “he/she” and “faggot” and she refused to answer him. When she told him that her mother did not name her “he/she” or “faggot,” that's when McRae lost it. He struck her several times with his fist and gloved handcuffs. Another officer restrained her while McRae beat and pepper-sprayed her.

The video shows other officers standing around watching the incident. Johnson said she called for help but no one came to her aid. A few minutes later, a nurse is called to the lobby. Johnson said the nurse repeatedly ignored her pleas for help.

Shelby County Sheriff Mark Lutrell, who oversees the jail, said that the nurse didn’t ignore Johnson, but performed a visual assessment of Johnson and determined the injuries weren’t life-threatening. A few minutes later, the nurse tended to McRae while Johnson rocked back and forth behind them.

Police Director Larry Godwin says he was sickened by what he saw on the videotape. “I was infuriated. I notified the FBI because they needed to investigate to see if this person’s civil rights were violated.”

An administrative hearing is scheduled for McRae next week.

I'll be keeping my eye on this case. Truly amazing. Had the videotape not been released, would the public have known about this incident? Most likely not.

How many corrupt cops and millions of dollars spent on lawsuits will it take before the city of Memphis and Shelby County government clean up its law enforcement agencies?

Teen Girls Make Pact to Become Pregnant

2008-06-21T10:17:00.003-05:00

Thirty miles outside of Boston, Massachusetts in a small fishing town part of Cape Ann Peninsula, sits the city of Gloucester, America’s oldest working seaport. Known for its beautiful harbor, famous beaches, historic inns, ancient lighthouses, legendary painters, and fresh seafood, Gloucester can now add to its lists of attractions: Gloucester High School Teen Pregnancy Club. This strange club boasts a membership of 17 girls from Gloucester High School.

TIME first reported the story earlier in the week, reporting 17 girls at Gloucester High School are expecting babies—more than four times the number of pregnancies the 1,200-student school had last year. Some adults dismissed the statistic as a blip. Others blamed hit movies like Juno and Knocked Up for glamorizing young unwed mothers. But Principal Joseph Sullivan knows at least part of the reason there's been such a spike in teen pregnancies in this Massachusetts fishing town. School officials started looking into the matter as early as October after an unusual number of girls began filing into the school clinic to find out if they were pregnant. By May, several students had returned multiple times to get pregnancy tests, and on hearing the results, "some girls seemed more upset when they weren't pregnant than when they were," Sullivan says. All it took was a few simple questions before nearly half the expecting students, none older than 16, confessed to making a pact to get pregnant and raise their babies together. Then the story got worse. "We found out one of the fathers is a 24-year-old homeless guy," the principal says, shaking his head.

According to Guttmacher Institute, each year almost 750,000 women ages 15-19 become pregnant. In general, states with the highest number of teenagers had the highest number of teenage pregnancies. In 2000, the states with highest teenage birthrates were Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, Arkansas, and New Mexico. The states with the lowest birthrates were New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, North Dakota, and Maine. Although Massachusetts is ranked as one of the states with the lowest teen birthrates, the sudden rise in pregnancy among Gloucester High School teens is alarming.

What would cause 17 adolescent women to make a pact to become pregnant while in high school? And how can we prevent more teenagers from “joining the club?”

Please share your comments.

If Walls Could Talk, What Would They Say?

2008-06-20T14:59:00.008-05:00

Ask Scott McClellan. That's what he's doing today before a congressional committee. The former White House press secretary told Congress on Friday that President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney wanted him to say that Cheney's chief of staff wasn't involved in the leak of a CIA operative's identity, an assertion that turned out to be false.

Scott McClellan, Bush's spokesman from 2003-2006, said he had reservations about publicly clearing the name of I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, Cheney's chief of staff at the time. Later, Libby was convicted of obstructing the investigation of the leak of Valerie Plame's CIA identity.

McClellan told the House Judiciary Committee that he doesn't know if a crime was committed in efforts to cover up the leak.

But he had harsh words for the White House, suggesting that the administration is continuing a cover-up in the Plame case. Read the article to learn more.

Ramdom Thought for the Day

2008-06-18T08:04:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to the Boston Celtics for winning the 2008 NBA World Championship. I'm so glad that Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen (as well as Paul Pierce and coach Doc Rivers) finally got a ring! And they did it up big, too: 131-92.

Sorry, Lakers, maybe next time. But June 17, 2008 was Boston's time to shine.

http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?categoryId=2459788&brand=null&videoId=3449933&n8pe6c=1

Tim Russert of "Meet the Press" Dies of Heart Attack

2008-06-13T20:45:00.011-05:00

Journalist Tim Russert of NBC's "Meet the Press" fame, died of a heart attack on Friday. Tim, who was only 58, apparently died suddenly while preparing for his weekly broadcast. Resuscitation efforts failed and Mr. Russert was pronounced dead at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, DC.

My deepest sympathy for his family, friends, and a nation's loss.

R.I.P.

Okey Dokey Friday Jokey

2008-06-13T20:06:00.008-05:00

I really do love this country, but . . .

1. Only in America . . . can a pizza get to your house faster than an ambulance.

2. Only in America . . . are there handicap parking places in front of a skating rink.

3. Only in America . . . do drugstores make the sick walk all the way to the back of the store to get their prescriptions while healthy people can buy cigarettes at the front.

4. Only in America . . . do people order double cheese burgers, large fries, and a diet coke.

5. Only in America . . . do banks leave both doors open and then chain the pens to the counters.

6. Only in America... do we leave cars worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and put our useless junk in the garage.

7. Only in America . . . do we use answering machines to screen calls and then have call waiting so we won't miss a call from someone we didn't want to talk to in the first place.

8. Only in America . . . do we buy hot dogs in packages of ten and buns in packages of eight.

9. Only in America . . . do we use the word 'politics' to describe the process so well: 'Poli' in Latin meaning 'many' and 'tics' meaning 'bloodsucking creatures'.

10. Only in America . . . do they have drive-up ATM machines with Braille.

- From the website, Lots of Jokes

NASCAR in Blackface

2008-06-11T21:04:00.010-05:00

When I think of NASCAR, I think of redneck-beer chugging-tobacco spitting-Confederate Flag waving-foul mouthed white men. Never would I have placed a black face with NASCAR, even if there are a few token blacks in the industry. So you can imagine my surprise when I read the attached article about a sistah-- yes, I said a SISTAH!--suing NASCAR.

Thirty-two year old Mauricia Grant, a former NASCAR official (and only black female official) is suing her ex-boss for $225 million. According to Ms. Grant's lawsuit filed on June 11, 2008 her white male co-workers repeatedly flashed their genitalia, made sexual overtures and innuendos, compared the KKK to the NAACP, and used the word nigger like it was going out of style. In the 40 page filing, Grant said she was repeatedly exposed to a racially hostile work environment and subjected to racists comments and a sexually hostile work environment. When she complained to NASCAR officials, Grant said that she was told to "deal with it."

Wow! Just when you thought it was safe to go into the office. I bet NASCAR will look to quickly settle with Grant to avoid the appearance of racial discrimination.

Cha-Ching!!! A sistah's about to get paid! Read the article and let me know what you think.

Okey Dokey Friday Jokey

2008-06-06T09:48:00.003-05:00

The Lie Detector

John was a salesman's delight when it came to any kind of unusual gimmick. His wife Marsha had long ago given up trying to get him to change. One day John came home with another one of his unusual purchases.

It was a robot that John claimed was actually a lie detector.

It was about 5:30 that afternoon when Tommy, their 11 year-old son, returned home from school. Tommy was over two hours late.

"Where have you been? Why are you over two hours late getting home?" asked John.

"Several of us went to the library to work on an extra credit project," said Tommy.

The robot then walked around the table and slapped Tommy, knocking him completely out of his chair.

"Son," said John, "this robot is a lie detector. Now tell us where you really were after school."

"We went to Bobby's house and watched a movie," said Tommy.

"What did you watch?" asked Marsha. "The Ten Commandments.," answered Tommy.

The robot went around to Tommy and once again slapped him, knocking him off his chair once more. With his lip quivering, Tommy got up, sat down and said, "I am sorry I lied. We really watched a tape called Sex Queen."

"I am ashamed of you, son," said John. "When I was your age, I never lied to my parents." The robot then walked around to John and delivered a whack that nearly knocked him out of his chair.

Marsha doubled over in laughter, almost in tears and said, "Boy, did you ever ask for that one! You can't be too mad with Tommy. After all, he is your son"

With that the robot immediately walked around to Marsha and knocked her out of her chair.

The Dream Realized?

2008-06-05T22:15:00.011-05:00

Democratic Presidential Nominee, Sen. Barack Obama (IL) and wife, Michelle.

"It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual."

"Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children."

"But there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force."

- Excerpts from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech during the March on Washington (August 28, 1963)
________________________________________________________________

Liberation from Guilt

2008-06-02T20:26:00.010-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

Today is my birthday and I declare it a national holiday, a holiday free from guilt. So, I'm gonna indulge in a sinful pleasure. I'm gonna have a hot fudge ice-cream sundae topped with fresh whipped cream, crushed peanuts, and a plump red delicious strawberry on top.

Okay. Okay. I'm dieting, so I'll skip the cherry. Help me blow out 44 candles. Ready. Set. Go!

Happy Birthday to Me!!!

What the Eff? Kids Gone Wild!

2008-05-19T13:06:00.013-05:00

What would possess a parent (and I use the word loosely) to allow a child to smoke a cigarette? I don't care what culture you're from or how "acceptable" it is for some cultures to allow smoking or drinking at an early age. It's irresponsible behavior. Letting a child inhale carcinogenic poison is akin to placing a baby in a car seat in the middle of a busy highway. It's just a matter of time before it's smashed to pieces.

I'm sure you have seen these pictures ad nauseum on the Internet, but stuff like this is happening everyday. It's totally wild and crazy.

And then you got the kid in the video below. What gives?

Maybe little man's grand momma should sign up for a course in ass whupping at the Ass Whupping Academy featured in the video below. Concerning Lil' Hector/Tokyo with the cigarette, his parents should be whupped.

Catch You on the Rebound

2008-05-14T07:19:00.003-05:00

I've been incredibly busy for the last few days and it looks like there's no end in sight. Well, actually, the end is in sight but it's not until the end of next week. I'm juggling several huge projects at the same time, so I'm stretched pretty thin. But I haven't forgotten my blogging duties (hee hee), I'm just mad busy. Give me another week and I promise, I'll make it up to you.

In the meantime (to quote Iyanla Vanzant), grab a cup of java, sit back, relax and stay for a while. Read a few posts, gather your thoughts and drop me a line. Feel free to share your comments or just leave a note to let me know you dropped by.

May your day be filled with wonder, peace, love, and joy.

In Peace,

Literate Muse

Okey Dokey Friday Jokey

2008-05-09T14:17:00.005-05:00

IRISH PROSTITUTE

An Irish daughter had not been home for over 5 years. Upon her return, her Father cussed her.

"Where have ye been all this time? Why did ye not write to us, not even a line? Why didn't ye call? Can ye not understand what ye put yer old Mother through?"

The girl, crying, replied "Sniff, sniff . . . Dad . . . I became a prostitute."

"'Ye what?!! Out of here, ye shameless harlot! Sinner! You're a disgrace to this Catholic family."

"OK, Dad-- as ye wish. I just came back to give mum this luxurious fur coat, title deed to a 10-bedroom mansion plus a £5 million savings certificate. For me little brother, this gold Rolex. And for ye Daddy, the sparkling new Mercedes limited edition convertible that's parked outside plus a membership to the country club ........... (takes a breath)............ and an invitation for ye all to spend New Year's Eve on board my new yacht in the Riviera and . . ."

"Now what was it ye said ye had become?" says Dad.

Girl, crying again, "Sniff, sniff . . . a prostitute, Daddy! Sniff, sniff."

"Oh! Be Jesus! Ye scared me half to death, girl! I thought ye said a Protestant. Come here and give yer old Dad a hug."

What I Know For Sure

2008-05-06T16:58:00.015-05:00

Laughing is good therapy.

No matter what, at the end of the day you can't recapture lost time.

What goes around comes around and usually it ain't pretty when it's your turn.

What you do to others reflects on you. What you do for others reflects on God.

My occupation does not define me.

The older I get the more I appreciate my youth.

How you handle a break-up says a lot about your character.

I love the sound of happiness.

It takes two to be a couple.

My position in the community does not define me.

Whether I speak or "write" my peace, I have released tons of energy.

What proceeds from the mouth of a man/woman comes from the heart.

Thoughts without action are only daydreams.

To attract friends you must be friendly.

To attract love you must be loving.

To attract fools you must be foolish . . . in your thoughts, actions or deeds.

Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Is Turnabout Fair Play?

2008-05-04T15:58:00.013-05:00

I have refrained from engaging in many conversations with friends and strangers about the 2008 U.S. presidential election. Mainly because I don't particularly care for either of the candidates: Senators John McCain (R-AZ), Hilary Rodham Clinton (D-NY), and Barack Obama (D-IL). But with the malicious attacks leveled at Senator Obama for comments made by his former pastor and spiritual advisor, Reverend Jeremiah Wright, I got to thinking, "Is turnabout fair play?"

Why has the media been so negligent in covering inflammatory comments made by a pastoral supporter of John McCain, Pastor John Hagee? Most people who watch television ministry are probably aware of John Hagee, a white, evangelical pastor of a mega church in San Antonio, Texas. Pastor Hagee is a very popular preacher. He appears several times a day on various television stations across the country. I happen to like Pastor Hagee. I believe that he is a man of God and that he really believes the Bible is the infallible word of God, as I do. I also like Reverend Wright. I believe that he is a man of God and he believes the Bible is the infallible word of God. I don't think Pastor Hagee's views are all that different from Reverend Wright when it comes to his convictions.

Pastor Hagee is often quoted as saying that the Catholic Church is a "whore religion." He is a strong supporter of Israel. And he preaches death to unbelievers. This is the same pastor that Senator McCain openly lobbied for support during the Republican primary. While the media has hopped on Reverend Wright's inflammatory comments and "attacks" on America, they have largely ignored John Hagee's claims and criticisms.

Now it seems that Pastor Hagee may become a "thorn in the side" for the Republican presidential candidate, according to The New York Times. Finally the media seems to be focusing their radar on this "crazy" white preacher from Texas. I've already issued my disclaimer, I like Pastor Hagee.

I also like Reverend Wright, who is a supporter of Minister Louis Farrakhan. So if Obama can have Reverend Wright and McCain can have Pastor Hagee, then I guess turnabout is fair play. Does one beget the other?

Wright. Hagee. Farrakhan. Am I aligned with all of their beliefs? No.

Should I, or Senator Obama, or you be held accountable for our pastor's views? They have a right to their beliefs, and so do I.

Here's an op-ed piece from today's issue of the The New York Times. It's titled The All-White Elephant in the Room.

Okey Dokey Friday Jokey

2008-05-02T08:29:00.003-05:00

Friday Humor . . .

When the Going Gets Tough

2008-04-27T22:05:00.009-05:00

For most of us changes in our eyesight usually prompt a call to the optometrist or ophthalmologist or other medical professional. If we have a toothache or chipped tooth, most likely we will make an appointment to see a dentist; and if you experience knee, shoulder, or joint pain, like I did last week, you will call an orthopedic specialist posthaste. Most folks, if they're ailing or feeling pain, typically seek some kind of medical treatment.

So why is it when some of us experience emotional pain or psychological trauma, we hesitate to visit a mental health provider? Given all of the strain and stress caused by family obligations, school, our jobs, dealing with difficult people, and unreasonable expectations that we and others place on us, it is no wonder that many of us are “disconnecting” from reality. Sometimes you don’t even know, let alone feel, that you’re under stress because you’re so used to operating at or above 100%. You become immune to the signs and symptoms.

We’re in constant motion. That’s the society we’re living in. We’re constantly meeting deadlines, running the kids around, caring for loved ones, and serving on multiple committees and boards. We spend more time advancing our careers and education than we spend nurturing healthy relationships with our families. And what’s worse, we spend even less time developing a relationship with our Creator, whom all blessings flow. Then what’s leftover we give to ourselves—maybe.

With this kind of imbalance there is no wonder why we feel overwhelmed or under appreciated and choose to disconnect. After giving away so much of ourselves, how can we possibly expect to maintain good mental health?

The Louisiana Weekly on Sunday examined suicide and depression in the black community. According to the Weekly, "Still suffering from the vestiges of slavery and still targets of institutionalized racism and discrimination today, with health and economic disparities in their disfavor in almost all societal categories, blacks are the first group of people who need to seek help for possible mental illness and depression, yet the last ones to get it." Author and Harvard Medical School psychiatrist Alvin Poussaint said blacks "see mental disorder and depression as a sign of personal weakness or moral failure." In the book Lay My Burden Down, Poussaint and co-author Amy Alexander write that blacks downplay issues of depression and mental illness, which can lead to suicide (Jackson, Louisiana Weekly, 4/6).

According to an article in the Beacon Journal, one in five Americans has some type of mental disorder— defined as a change in mood, thought or behavior, causing distress and/or problems in day-to-day functioning. Nationwide, mental illnesses cause a disability rate second only to heart disease, according to a 1999 report by the U.S. Surgeon General.

One way to improve mental health is by talking. Through dialogue people can come together for a mutual exchange of ideas, observations and experiences. Dialogues go beyond the usual interactions between practitioners and recipients of mental health services. They provide a safe environment in which participants may speak freely to create better understanding and mutual trust and respect.

Temporarily disconnecting from the strain and stress of life is a natural response. But how and when you choose to reconnect will determine your success in managing life’s challenges. If you are experiencing any of the problems listed in this post, please seek help. If you don’t have adequate health coverage, there are many ways you can still seek help. Contact a mental health provider in your community.

Here’s a list of resources that may be helpful:

· American Mental Health Counselors Association
· National Mental Health Information Center
· Online Health Resources
· Mental Health America
· Mental Health Organizations by State
· Mental Health Agencies
· Treatment Advocacy Center
· Mental Health Today
· HealthyPlace.com
· The Bright Side

When Godly Women Disagree . . .

2008-04-26T23:02:00.002-05:00

This is what it sounds like when women of God disagree.

Knock Knock

2008-04-23T22:47:00.007-05:00

Remember when you were young (I mean really, really young) and use to play childhood games? I can remember spending hours playing Tag, Hide-and-Seek, Red-light/Green-light, Ring Around the Rosey, Kick Ball, Freeze, and Simon Says. Awwwwwwwwwwww. Those were the days. I was part of a group of neighborhood kids who played until we were exhausted, or at least until our Moms called us home. It seemed like we never grew tired. We were like the Energizer Bunny, we kept going and going and going.

Sometimes we'd race our bikes up and down the street or around the corner, or just ride in the driveway. Other times we'd just sit and tell jokes. Of course during play-- especially when the boys would play--the jokes almost always turned silly or into "a game of Yo' Momma."

I never really liked the "yo momma" jokes because it always turned personal and somebody usually ended up with a swollen lip or a black eye. But what I liked most about our childhood games was the "Knock Knock" jokes. Remember those?

Here are some of my favorites:

Knock knock!
Who's there?
Orange.
Orange who?
Orange you glad I stopped by?
--------------------------------------
Knock knock!
Who's there?
Anita.
Anita who?
Anita damn break!
---------------------------------------
Knock knock!
Who's there?
Sara.
Sara who?
Sara a doctor in the house?
---------------------------------------
Knock knock!
Who's there?
Sacha.
Sacha who?
Sacha lot of questions!
----------------------------------------
Knock knock!
Who's there?
May.
May who?
Maybe I'll tell you, maybe I won't!
-----------------------------------------
Knock knock!
Who's there?
Lena.
Lena who?
Lena a little closer and I'll tell you!
-----------------------------------------
I invite you to tell me your best "Knock Knock" jokes!

Hallmark Greeting

2008-04-22T16:55:00.006-05:00

I ran across this beautiful Hallmark greeting and thought I'd post it. The message is geared towards the New Year, but it is a prayer for all seasons. So as the saying goes, "better late than never."

Prayer for the New Year

Give us the kindness to hear with compassion,

to offer support,

loving comfort, and care.

Give us the courage to do what is needed,

the wisdom to choose

what is right and most fair.

Give us he vision to see what is possible.

Give us the faith

that will help pave the way

for a present that's hopeful,

a future that's peaceful --

give us the heart to bring joy to each day.

Catch a Falling Star

2008-04-18T11:44:00.006-05:00

One of the coolest things about blogging is having the opportunity to have your thoughts and ideas exposed to hundreds, if not, thousands of people across the globe. All you need is a computer with Internet access and a bit of creative ingenuity, then sit back and enjoy the ride. The reciprocity may be boundless.

Although I'm relatively new to blogging, I'm having a ball using this form of expression. It's like having an electronic diary, but the only difference is that you really don't mind if someone finds your diary, opens it and read it. As a matter of fact, I hope you not only read my blog, but ponder what I'm saying, and share it with others.

Since I've been on blogger.com I've read many wonderful blogs. The interesting thing about blogging is that you never know whose blogging or what they have to say until you log on. There are so many web sites dedicated to blogging that it's virtually impossible not to catch the "blogging bug." That's why I have dedicated this post to bloggers everywhere. I applaud each of you for your diligence in blogging every day, and even those who only post once a month, you deserve an applause, too. Thanks for giving me something to laugh at, seriously ponder, or even frown upon.

Let's support bloggers everywhere and continue to fight for our right to free speech. Please check out these blogs and share them with others.

Oneness in Women in Christ

2008-04-16T18:32:00.004-05:00

Today's theme is "Oneness in Women in Christ." What is the focus of a real woman's obedience to God, and how can we support our sisters-in-Christ?

Romans 6:16 says:

"Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?"

As women in Christ, our obedience is to the Lord which leads to righteousness. The focus of a real woman's obedience to God is our covenant with Him and to each other as women in Christ.

Who are Women of Covenant?

We are women in agreement, women of God, women of promise, women binding together to obey and do the call of God. We will promote growth to the church as well as encourage and uplift one another in love and compassion. We will be thoughtful women, intercessors, women of joy, women working together in love and unity. We will honor one another as we honor God.

We will lift our pastor and his family up in prayer and be on standby to work when called upon. We will follow the direction of God, and when disagreements come – and you know they will – we will learn (to agree to disagree). We are women of faith, women who know and believe God can and will do what He says in His word.

We are praying women, obedient women, and compassionate women of truth, who will go the extra mile. We will strive to do our best. We will be real women of God.

What’s New in Black Literature

2008-04-12T22:33:00.001-05:00

Why Can't Black People Get Ahead by Gwen Richardson

Standing Tall: A Memoir of Tragedy and Triumph by C. Vivian Wright

A Bound Man: Why We Are Excited About Obama and Why He Can't Win
by Shelby Steele

Incognegro by Mat Johnson

Seen It All and Done the Rest: A Novel
by Pearl Cleage

Three Reasons Why Kwame Kilpatrick Should Quit

2008-04-12T21:22:00.009-05:00

1. Driving While Black (DWB) is no longer a defense—especially when you canned Gary A. Brown, head of the Detroit Police Department’s internal affairs, who alleges that he was fired in retaliation for investigating the mayor’s conduct.

2. You are smart enough to pass the Michigan State Bar Exam, but not smart enough to use your own damn cell phone to arrange trysts and send explicit text messages to your mistress, Christine Beatty, who also happens to be a city (former) employee. Instead you both used your government issued cell phones for your adulterous affair and then lied under oath about being “more than friends” Geesh! How dumb is that?

3. To hear Councilwoman and former Motown singer, Martha Reeves, belt out her hit song, Dancing in the Streets, after Kilpatrick announces his resignation.

Old Wounds, New Hurts

2008-04-12T20:08:00.005-05:00

Some people say that you can't move forward until you've closed the door on your past. Yeah, I guess I would have to agree with that statement--at least in part. At times, dealing with events and people from my past has certainly kept me from moving forward. For instance, my sister and I have bickered off-and-on for years, ever since we were children. Sometimes her words and actions have cut me to the core and vice versa. There are times when I have confronted her about her stinging tongue and the negative impact of her words. There are also many times when I have remained silent.

Usually, the conversation goes like this: "I was really hurt and offended when you shared personal information about me with someone else, especially when I heard the information repeated back to me by another person. I felt violated and betrayed. Can you tell me why you would violate my trust, and how can I be sure it won't happen again?" Her textbook response: "Well, I didn't mean to cause you any pain or discomfort by sharing your story. I didn't realize how much it meant to you and I am sorry that I violated your trust. In the future when sharing it would help me if you were to say 'Do not repeat this.' "

These types of conversations have gone on for years and always with the same results. I would share personal information, emote, or respectfully disagree with a point or two and without fail, during our next argument my sister would echo my words back to me. She'd throw my past offenses in my face along with any previous discussions or conversations we've ever had, oftentimes repeating them verbatim. You know, after a while a person grows tired of this kind of unhealthy exchange; it doesn't allow for one to have a human moment or freedom of expression without censure. Now looking back I realize that my sister's idea of "private conversations" or healthy debates simply don't match up with mine. Over the years there have been many offenses, confrontations, and indiscretions, and I have weathered them all. I have accepted the fact that we are distinctly different and for a long time I turned the other cheek . . . until this most recent incident.

Years of resentment and hostility surfaced after I took a stand and decided to "disconnect" because I no longer chose to play the role of passive defender. Decades of serving as target practice for my sister's misplaced anger and my semi-silence has worn thin. My level of tolerance has evaporated. While I respect her need for personal expression, I need for her to also respect my privacy. And since it appears that she is unable or unwilling to respect my wishes, I have to redefine our relationship. For some people there is no middle ground, it's either all or nothing. Generally, that has been the case with my sister. So, in order for me to continue my personal growth and move forward, it would appear that I have to close the door on my past.

But can I really close the door on my relationship with my sister? Yes. I think I can. Especially when the relationship is toxic, unhealthy, causes stress, lacks joy, limits growth, and generally displeasing.

Famous Quotes

2008-04-09T17:33:00.006-05:00

"The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life." - Muhammad Ali

"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans." - John Lennon

"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, "I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along." . . . You must do the thing you think you cannot do." -Eleanor Roosevelt

"How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in life you will have been all of these." -George Washington Carver

"A woman who is convinced that she deserves to accept only the best challenges herself to give the best. Then she is living phenomenally." -Maya Angelou

"I think the reward for conformity is everyone likes you but yourself." -Rita Mae Brown

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

"Just do it!" -Nike Shoe Company

"Wisdom is supreme; therefore make a full effort to get wisdom. Esteem her and she will exalt you; embrace her and she will honor you." -Proverbs 4:7-8

Random Thought for Today

2008-04-06T11:43:00.003-05:00

Word association. Say the first thing that comes to mind.

Black
America
Equality
Indigenous People
Ship
Chains
Wall Street
George W. Bush
John F. Kennedy
Rosa Parks
Betty Shabazz
Oprah Winfrey
Mother
Father
King
Queen
Postal Worker
Check

Say it Ain't So

2008-04-02T19:48:00.013-05:00

Living in the southern part of the United States can be an interesting experience. For starters, one can never tell what to wear because the weather is so fickle. Rain today, sunshine tomorrow. Cold snap ends on Friday and starts again on Monday. One day my wardrobe consisted of three seasons: a winter coat, a light spring jacket, and a summer frock. All in one day. Totally weird.

But what's even more weird (in a good way) are the people from the South. Well, weird is not the word that I want to use, unique is probably a better word choice. And speaking of words, are you familiar with the language spoken "down south" by many of its inhabitants? Neither was I until I moved here.

Remember the actors Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan in the movie Rush Hour? Chris says to Jackie, "Do you understand the words coming out of my mouth?" And I'm thinking, you gotta be kidding! You're asking a Chinese immigrant if he understand the words coming from your mouth; a high-pitched, screeching southern drawl riddled with split infinitives and dangling modifiers. I don't even understand the words coming out of your mouth, and I was born in America. Chris Tucker was born in Georgia (a southern state) and has the accent to prove it.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not knocking southern accents. I'm just amazed at what comes out of the mouth of some southerners. I'm originally from Chicago but I was raised in the pacific northwest where folks don't have an accent and you really can't tell what region they're from. They call it the "every man's" voice. This is the voice used by broadcast journalists, radio personalities, and advertisers. I've been accused of having this type of voice--and I'm just one generation removed from the south. However, I did study journalism, even if only for two semesters.

Just listen to the local news anchors here in the south and you won't hear their southern accent, especially the one's who were born and raised here. Then listen to some of the folks they interview; you'll definitely know what part of the country you're in.

Here are a few buzz words and phrases to let you know you're probably living in the south or from the south:

1. Fixin' To get set to; be on the verge.
2. Make groceries To buy groceries; grocery shop.
3. What time it is? What time is it?
4. Reckon. To regard or think of as.
5. Sho 'Nuff. Sure enough.
6 That dog won't hunt. The idea or argument won't work.
7. Holler. To yell or shout.
8. Y'all. You all or ye all.
9. Hear tell. A form of "hear it told." Often conveys that the information was passed second- hand.
10. Nearabout. Almost
11. Wongo. Want to go.
12. Mo'. More.
13. I'ma. I am.
14. Dubba wide. Double wide.
15. Sumptin' Teet. Someting to eat.
16. Hoodia. Who do you . . .
17. Liked to. I could have.
18. I ain't never in my life. I have never.
19. Mama ' n em. Family.
20. Mo'. More.

Faith and Belief

2008-03-30T21:24:00.012-05:00

According to Webster's Dictionary, faith is a firm belief in something for which there is no proof. Whereas belief is a state of habit of mind in which trust or confidence is placed in some person or thing. Belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer.

A couple of weeks ago I met a gentleman online who shared his Christian faith. After several sporadic conversations, we exchanged phone numbers. Recently he talked about his desire to marry--no, he wasn't talking about me--and his belief in love. He is twice divorced but still believes the right woman is out there for him. In fact, he is so convinced his wife is waiting that he has already purchased an expensive ring to present to her when he finds her. Now, that's some real faith.

Nonetheless, I was encouraged to hear that his faith is driven by his belief in God. You see, he hasn't always been a believer. There were times when he tried to chart his own course and make things happen, but the results were unkind. There's nothing nice about having two failed marriages, being a part-time dad, filing bankruptcy, and encountering health issues. According to him, all of these things happened because he didn't make Christ the center of his life. His belief was only in himself and not in a higher power.

Now with new priorities and Christ firmly centered in his life, he's experiencing remarkable changes. His physical and financial health has rebounded and he now sees his children more often. Even though he has no proof that a wife awaits him, he has all the confidence in the world that he will marry soon.

"As your faith is strengthened you will find that there is no longer the need to have a sense of control, that things will flow as they will, and that you will flow with them, to your great delight and benefit." ~Emmanuel~

Feeling Patriotic?

2008-03-27T22:00:00.001-05:00

If you're feeling patriotic today, may I suggest you listen to Marvin Gaye singing the National Anthem. When Gaye first sang the anthem during the opening of the NBA Allstar game in 1983, he received mixed reaction. While some lauded his performance as original, creative, and nothing short of genius, others panned the performance and claimed Gaye had 'crucified' the national anthem by personalizing it. Marvin's rendition was not the traditional version, but was more jazzy and smooth. Almost immediately after his performance, a petition was circulated by his detractors to ban anyone from personalizing the national anthem. Obviously that didn't fly, hence, Roseanne Barr's fisaco 15 years later.

Only in America, as Don King would say.

Marvin Gaye singing National Anthem

Is Black Love Dead?

2008-03-25T20:02:00.000-05:00

I ran across this piece on YouTube by http://www.themessageshow.com/. It's clever commentary on the 'state' of black love. Tell me what you think.

A Walrus Tribute to Michael Jackson

2008-03-25T19:50:00.002-05:00

Enough said . . .

A Change is Gonna Come . . .

2008-02-09T22:00:00.000-06:00

Sam Cooke wrote and first recorded his hit song, "A Change is Gonna Come," in 1964, which later became the anthem for the civil-rights movement. Now more than 40 years later, a new generation of socially consicous Americans are singing a new tune: "Yes, We Can.", based on a speech given by 2008 Democratic presidential hopeful, Senator Barack Obama.

A new voice ihas emerged in American politics and people are listening. What do you think?

Build Self-Esteem with Love Gifts

2008-01-18T06:16:00.000-06:00

I ran across this article by Virginia Reeves and thought I'd post it on my blog-- of course with Ms. Reeves' permission. Hope you enjoy it. I certainly did!

Build Self-Esteem with Love Gifts
© By: Virginia Reeves

Feeling good about yourself enables you to easily treat others well. Practicing the following seven tips will bring more happiness and joy into your life.

1. GIFT OF ACCEPTANCE.
Show those around you that they are loved for what they are, not for what they do or even how much they try to please you. Acceptance builds self-esteem in both you and others. Offer guidance if asked and continually foster independence. Help others find happiness in their own way and you'll find that your level of joy increases as well.

2. GIFT OF SELF-CONFIDENCE.
This means trusting one's own abilities and talents and using them. To be proud of accomplishments and not shy about letting others know about them is another component. The understanding and acceptance that one does not need the approval of others all the time is critical to good mental health and emotional growth.

3. GIFT OF POSSIBILITIES.
Anyone can do anything they want to do - if they're willing to work at it. This means acquiring the needed skills, taking risks, and reaching out.. Give to yourself and your loved ones and friends the gift of freedom to be anything rather than limiting imaginations by labels and rules. Permit everyone to dream and then help in whatever way you can to see the achievement of those dreams. Encourage love of learning and exploration of new ideas. Your influence will encourage you to do the same.

4. GIFT OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
This support base allows a positive outlook to permeate whatever you do with your life. You learn from both the good and the bad, the happy and sad, the success and the setbacks. Interactions of all types are found, nurtured, and used throughout your life. They aren't always picture-perfect but that's part of teaching you how to develop yourself and the many capabilities you need to build self-esteem.

5. GIFT OF BEING A PERSON WHO HAS A SPARK and appreciation for all of life. Encourage those you care about to be fully alive by taking adventures, finding laughter and fun daily, expressing their creativity, and stretching themselves beyond their personal limits. Model a lifestyle that provides them with a positive guideline.

6. GIFT OF LIFE WITHOUT NEEDLESS WORRIES OR FEARS.
Show others by practicing this way of life demonstrates that you don't just sit around and fret about problems. Rather, you tackle them. Be a doer; you'll be surprised at how others will follow your lead. Not only that, the"problems" may vanish when met head on or realistically pushed aside.

7. GIFT OF ACRONYMS.
Sure, it sounds strange but it gets you thinking. Here's some ideas for the word love.

Loving Openly, Vivaciously, Enthusiastically
Liking Offspring Virtually Everyday
Little Oddities, Very Endearing
Life Offers Vibrant Energy
Laughter, Openness, Vitality, Excitement

In addition to giving these gifts to others, remember to give them to yourself as well. Love gifts can be given away any time, to anyone, for the best reason of all, you care. The gifts of acceptance, self-confidence, possibility thinking and action, problem solving, and the supreme gift of finding happiness in the challenge of living comes from self-esteem love gifts. Give them freely, willingly, and with affection.

Riddle Me This

2008-01-12T21:15:00.000-06:00

What do you get when you cross free online games with modern popular culture? One amazing web site called Riddler.com. This great web site offers tons of free online games that you can play right in your browser: puzzles, trivia, arcade, sports, word games and more. It's all FREE and you can play online, so you never need to install any programs on your computer. From a quick, casual game to engaging multi-player tournaments.

Enjoy!

Incremental Love

2008-01-03T22:46:00.002-06:00

One of my New Year's commitments is to love without fear and be more grateful, giving thanks for everything. But making a conscious choice to love without fear actually has given rise to my own fear--rejection. You see, when you spend three quarters of your life like I have trying to rebound from a paradoxical family, one of two things usually occur: 1) short- or long-term emotional damage and/or 2) a fixation with the idea of fixing people, situations or things. In my case, I suffered from both, short-term emotional damage and the need to fix others. And to top it off, I was also a people pleaser. A trifecta!

I'm sure you know people like me, and in some cases you may even be married to or living with or even working beside my separated at birth twin. Just kidding. But it's nice to know that I'm not in this alone. Back to the subject. You know those people who always seem uncomfortable unless every body's happy? Or the consensus builder? How about the person who seems unaffected by others' opinions but who secretly wants acceptance? Well, that was me. Guilty on all three counts.

All of my life I have struggled quietly and at times not so quietly with rejection. Because of this fear I've only managed to have superficial relationships. A wall had been carefully constructed around my emotions to avoid being hurt, and it seemed like I was incapable of loving without fear. Fear of what, though? After a series of failed relationships, I was forced to examine my behavior. I did a Sigmund Freud maneuver and psycho-analyzed my actions toward those whom I desired to have a close relationship. And let me tell you, the analysis revealed some deep-rooted fears. My fears went all the way back to the womb. Well, not literally, but it was rooted in my childhood---my very dysfunctional childhood.

During my self-discovery I got in touch with my wounded inner child; the child who felt abandoned and unloved by her mother because of her inability to nurture due to a mental impairment. As much as I loved my father, I resented him because he was physically present but emotionally absent. Praise, compliments, and encouragement were foreign to my parents, so at an early age I learned that love was conditional. If I worked hard around the house or at school, my father would occasionally say "Good job. I'm proud of you." What I took away from those moments was that in order to gain my father's love I had to earn or work for it. This behavior, unfortunately, stayed with me into my adult years.

So you can imagine when I entered adulthood and started dating, my view on love was very skewed. In my relationships I found myself mimicking similar patterns from childhood. I would try to please my partner through constant praise, compliments, and encouragement. And since I didn't have a personal cheerleader or life coach, I was determined to be his best friend, encourager, accountant, social worker, banker, job counselor, mother, and fill in the blank. You name it and I was going to be it, just as long as I had his attention.

It wasn't until about eight years ago that I found my way out of darkness and into the light. After my father passed away in 1997, I gradually began to assess my life and how my unhealthy emotions were clouding my vision. I started to eliminate toxic people and rid myself of toxic thoughts. I slowly began building new friendships and nurturing old ones, all the while drawing strength from my renewed relationship with Jesus Christ. Even though I still make a few relationship blunders, it's nothing compared to what I once entertained. That's growth.

I have learned to accept me as I am and for who I wish to become. My love for others is incremental and increasing each day. So on this third day of the New Year, I remain committed to loving without fear. I am so very grateful that God has purposed within me to experience the true meaning of love.

Great Expectations for 2008!

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Well, folks, it looks like we made it through 2007 and into the new year. That's something to be grateful for, isn't it? And like millions of Americans, I, too, am shaking off the old year and putting on new garments for 2008. Ain't it grand? Just think, the Lord has afforded you another day to breathe, walk, talk, see, taste, hear and share the goodness of His son, Jesus Christ. We have freedom of our limbs, free thoughts, and free will. This is a beautiful life.

I am excited about having another chance to serve our Lord in 2008. Last night I talked to a friend and we reminisced about the past year, we talked about what we did and didn't accomplish in 2007, and the beauty of second chances. Three hundred and sixty-five days to get it right, to complete our "To Do List", and to think about new beginnings and second chances.

I have committed to reading one scripture a day and with some effort maybe I'll end up reading the bible in one year. It's all semantics, but I prefer not to use the word resolutions. I like to call them commitments or affirmations--somehow it sounds better when I say "I commit to saving 10% of my income each month," rather than "I resolve to spend less and save more!"

Any great expectations for 2008?

Question: What's on your "To Do List" for the New Year?