THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING
A friend of mine says " What are you so happy about? What are the smiles for?" I replied "Obama won. A change has come and it's time for reinvention!" For him, this was not such a great reason to smile although he voted for Obama. He just sees him as another Black man. He does not see this so called CHANGE.
In response to his comment, I say that yes there is one change that we see so far, and that is witnessing a Black man being elected as President of America. However, this does not take away from what America has done to Black people as a whole. Yes Blacks have been held back from earned wealth and education, but let's move forward.
Not forget but forward.
Let's prove that we are entitled to what has been denied to us time and time again. Of course, it doesn't take just a Black President to make things happen. Communities make things happen. Unifying with one another makes people take us seriously. Mr. President Obama is just the skin of the apple. The flesh and the core are his young and gifted followers/believers that will transform this country into a place where Blacks can feel like they belong 100%.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
OVERWHELMING EXPERIENCE!
I am usually claustrophobic when it comes to a large crowd and a small space. However, I was not going to miss last night's victory in Harlem. The celebration in Harlem is the biggest celebration in a public space that I have been to in a long time. Young and old, Black, White, Asian, and Hispanic were out in the masses. There was tons of hugging, dancing, screaming, shouting, and of course tears of joy streaming down the faces of many. No one could hold back their emotions. Sam Cooke was right when he said that a "change was gonna come." And my God it did. They shouted "Yes we CAN!" Then it was quickly changed to "Yes we DID."
I am beyond ecstatic that Barack Obama is the first Black president of the United States. It is so amazing that Barack did not run for President as a "Black man." He ran for president as a Colorless husband and father who had a dream of making an impact on his country. Throughout this year long campaign, Obama played like a true champion. He was composed and respectful of the Republican party. Although the Republican party used various tactics to try to sabotage him, Barack chose to remain on the "high road" by refusing to retaliate.
It is relieving to have someone like Barack in this position. To see someone that the majority friends, family, and I can relate to is more than a dream come true. I feel honored to have this privilege. It is exuberant to know that there is someone different from the monolithic images that we see of Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson (Don't get me wrong I support these leaders, but we are progressing and so should our goals and tactics). I call on all Black and non Black Americans to give Obama the support that he will need during his entire term. We cannot stop here. We must reinvent ourselves. The change starts with each individual person, then it extends and trickles down to other people. There should be no more excuses for not doing anything to better yourself and your spirits. You can achieve anything you want!
After last night's victory, I regained a new and deeper respect for a Black man and the Black family unit. I respect my Black brothers, but at times when I see the the reinforcement of the negative images of a Black man being an abset father, felon, drug dealer, "ghetto" and many other expletives, I begin to internalize these thoughts. In turn, I believe them because its all that you see. But as of yesterday, I believe that Barack's victory will dispel all of these negative stereotypes and uplift the Black man. I am hoping that all Black men can gain a sense of trust in their government. I also hope that they will have the confidence that is needed to know that they are Kings and they hold the key to their success.
A Black man is a powerful being and second to God he is the leader of the family. When I see Obama, Michelle and their two lovely daughters it gives me hope that I too can have a solid family structure that is unbreakable. Coming from a broken family with only my mother as the leader 100% of the time, I lost faith that I would ever be able to have a wonderful husband and children. Broken family units definitely outweigh the "perfect" ones in my world. The closest tight knit family that most lower to middles class families from my neighborhood seen were the Huxtables. They certainly were not tangible.
When I would see shows based on weddings. I would always hear women, mainly white, say that they "always dreamed of marrying the man of their dreams and being a princess since they were younger." For me, this was not a thought. Recently I begin to think of these things. The concept of living the American dream with the beautiful family and the house with the white picket fence was certainly not an item on my check list. Not because I did not want it, but because I did not think it could be possible. However, it is possible. Now that Barack is President it is time for those degrading images we see of Black families to change to something positive so that Black girls and boys can dream of finding happiness within themselves and their family.
Of course, nothing happens over night. Progression takes time. Barack has a lot of mess to clean up in that White House. However, we will do it together. We have to continue to be excited and willing to make a change.
Let's not just talk about it, let's be about it!
I am usually claustrophobic when it comes to a large crowd and a small space. However, I was not going to miss last night's victory in Harlem. The celebration in Harlem is the biggest celebration in a public space that I have been to in a long time. Young and old, Black, White, Asian, and Hispanic were out in the masses. There was tons of hugging, dancing, screaming, shouting, and of course tears of joy streaming down the faces of many. No one could hold back their emotions. Sam Cooke was right when he said that a "change was gonna come." And my God it did. They shouted "Yes we CAN!" Then it was quickly changed to "Yes we DID."
I am beyond ecstatic that Barack Obama is the first Black president of the United States. It is so amazing that Barack did not run for President as a "Black man." He ran for president as a Colorless husband and father who had a dream of making an impact on his country. Throughout this year long campaign, Obama played like a true champion. He was composed and respectful of the Republican party. Although the Republican party used various tactics to try to sabotage him, Barack chose to remain on the "high road" by refusing to retaliate.
It is relieving to have someone like Barack in this position. To see someone that the majority friends, family, and I can relate to is more than a dream come true. I feel honored to have this privilege. It is exuberant to know that there is someone different from the monolithic images that we see of Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson (Don't get me wrong I support these leaders, but we are progressing and so should our goals and tactics). I call on all Black and non Black Americans to give Obama the support that he will need during his entire term. We cannot stop here. We must reinvent ourselves. The change starts with each individual person, then it extends and trickles down to other people. There should be no more excuses for not doing anything to better yourself and your spirits. You can achieve anything you want!
After last night's victory, I regained a new and deeper respect for a Black man and the Black family unit. I respect my Black brothers, but at times when I see the the reinforcement of the negative images of a Black man being an abset father, felon, drug dealer, "ghetto" and many other expletives, I begin to internalize these thoughts. In turn, I believe them because its all that you see. But as of yesterday, I believe that Barack's victory will dispel all of these negative stereotypes and uplift the Black man. I am hoping that all Black men can gain a sense of trust in their government. I also hope that they will have the confidence that is needed to know that they are Kings and they hold the key to their success.
A Black man is a powerful being and second to God he is the leader of the family. When I see Obama, Michelle and their two lovely daughters it gives me hope that I too can have a solid family structure that is unbreakable. Coming from a broken family with only my mother as the leader 100% of the time, I lost faith that I would ever be able to have a wonderful husband and children. Broken family units definitely outweigh the "perfect" ones in my world. The closest tight knit family that most lower to middles class families from my neighborhood seen were the Huxtables. They certainly were not tangible.
When I would see shows based on weddings. I would always hear women, mainly white, say that they "always dreamed of marrying the man of their dreams and being a princess since they were younger." For me, this was not a thought. Recently I begin to think of these things. The concept of living the American dream with the beautiful family and the house with the white picket fence was certainly not an item on my check list. Not because I did not want it, but because I did not think it could be possible. However, it is possible. Now that Barack is President it is time for those degrading images we see of Black families to change to something positive so that Black girls and boys can dream of finding happiness within themselves and their family.
Of course, nothing happens over night. Progression takes time. Barack has a lot of mess to clean up in that White House. However, we will do it together. We have to continue to be excited and willing to make a change.
Let's not just talk about it, let's be about it!
Friday, September 19, 2008
OBAMA WAFFLES?! This is ludicrous!
The products were on display at the Values Voters Summit that was hosted by a conservative Christian group.
I don't care whose side you are on, but this is taking it too far. it is outlandish and OBVIOUSLY bigotry.
What do you think of this? Do you think that there should be some consequences for this?
Thursday, September 11, 2008
SENT FROM HEAVEN
That morning I was sitting in Sr. Margaret's class when I heard the news. Everyone gasped in shock, and begin to cry. We were all concerned about our loved ones and our own well being. My principle soon made the risky decision to allow us to go home. No one knew where to go or who to call. It was like the world had ended. No cell phone, no computer, no way of communicating with people you definitely knew were going to help out.
As I was leaving the school, I figured that I would try to take my normal route home. Of course, the trains were shut down. I couldn't think straight. There were so many people.
Chaos. Smokey Air. Tense. Gloomy. Sullen. Surreal.
I was scared, in tears, and hoping that my family was okay. At that moment, I felt lost and confused, but I wasn't the only one feeling this way. Other New Yorkers were fearful. But of course as New Yorkers, we unified, and gave helping hands to one another even if the solutions we came up with weren't successful.
With the help of a few good Samaritans I successful made it home a little sore from trying to maneuver with my backpack. But thankfully unharmed. I am appreciative of the ordinary people who extended a helping hand. This is a day that will never be forgotten.
Similar (but no where near the same magnitude) to this, there seems to be someone who is willing to go beyond expectations when I'm in need because last evening I got lost. Yes, I who pride myself on being a native New Yorker, got lost. The stores, the buses and trains, and none of the people were familiar. I asked for directions, but no one knew and if they did I became more confused.
At that moment, there was one thing left for me to do. Call my lifeline (who we will call BP). First I thought, "This is outrageous who would come all the way over here to get me?" Fortunately, BP came to pick me up expeditiously. It seemed like the car pulled up to me 5 seconds after we hung up.
This isn't the first time that I have got out of a jam with the help of BP. When I need to vent, when I need some food, or something as simple as a laugh BP comes right on time.
It's a great feeling to know that someone will be there for you no matter the circumstance.
Sometimes I complain that I don't have this or that. But God gave me something that's more important than all, and that's an angel who I can use as my lifeline for all of life's curve balls.
Can you do the same?
That morning I was sitting in Sr. Margaret's class when I heard the news. Everyone gasped in shock, and begin to cry. We were all concerned about our loved ones and our own well being. My principle soon made the risky decision to allow us to go home. No one knew where to go or who to call. It was like the world had ended. No cell phone, no computer, no way of communicating with people you definitely knew were going to help out.
As I was leaving the school, I figured that I would try to take my normal route home. Of course, the trains were shut down. I couldn't think straight. There were so many people.
Chaos. Smokey Air. Tense. Gloomy. Sullen. Surreal.
I was scared, in tears, and hoping that my family was okay. At that moment, I felt lost and confused, but I wasn't the only one feeling this way. Other New Yorkers were fearful. But of course as New Yorkers, we unified, and gave helping hands to one another even if the solutions we came up with weren't successful.
With the help of a few good Samaritans I successful made it home a little sore from trying to maneuver with my backpack. But thankfully unharmed. I am appreciative of the ordinary people who extended a helping hand. This is a day that will never be forgotten.
Similar (but no where near the same magnitude) to this, there seems to be someone who is willing to go beyond expectations when I'm in need because last evening I got lost. Yes, I who pride myself on being a native New Yorker, got lost. The stores, the buses and trains, and none of the people were familiar. I asked for directions, but no one knew and if they did I became more confused.
At that moment, there was one thing left for me to do. Call my lifeline (who we will call BP). First I thought, "This is outrageous who would come all the way over here to get me?" Fortunately, BP came to pick me up expeditiously. It seemed like the car pulled up to me 5 seconds after we hung up.
This isn't the first time that I have got out of a jam with the help of BP. When I need to vent, when I need some food, or something as simple as a laugh BP comes right on time.
It's a great feeling to know that someone will be there for you no matter the circumstance.
Sometimes I complain that I don't have this or that. But God gave me something that's more important than all, and that's an angel who I can use as my lifeline for all of life's curve balls.
Can you do the same?
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
CARDIO BLAST!
Yesterday evening I had the privilege to take the most fantastic Cardio Body Toning class. The class was full of estrogen. There were no men in site besides the instructor Mack. There were about 50 women of all ages and races that filled up the room.
At first, I thought this is going to be easy and boring. Mack instructed us to do the usual which is to get a mat and grab some weights. Then I knew for sure that it was going to be the typical exercise class that the instructor begrudgingly gets through with mediocre workouts that a baby can do.
After everyone settled in, Mack turned the CD player on and Diana Ross belted out "I'm Coming Out." At that moment, Mack transformed into a drill sergeant, and we each felt the pain. It was a pain like no other. It was pleasurable and definitely wanted.
What made it enjoyable was hearing the tunes that were being played. He played tunes like Cheryl Lynn's "Got to be Real," Madonna's "Like A Virgin," Sheila E's "Glamorous Life," and many more that we all sung while lunging and squatting.
While doing a chest press, I looked in the mirror to peek to see what the other women in class were doing. Seeing the smiles and the unity made me feel empowered. I know that it is "weird" to think of this while suffering from excruciating pain, but I felt good to be a woman.
I was doing something for me for a change. Getting in tune with my mind, body, and soul and pushing it to the next level.
What was the last thing that you done that made your feel awesome? Is there any hobby/activity that you do daily that makes you feel like you're "sitting on top of the world?"
Yesterday evening I had the privilege to take the most fantastic Cardio Body Toning class. The class was full of estrogen. There were no men in site besides the instructor Mack. There were about 50 women of all ages and races that filled up the room.
At first, I thought this is going to be easy and boring. Mack instructed us to do the usual which is to get a mat and grab some weights. Then I knew for sure that it was going to be the typical exercise class that the instructor begrudgingly gets through with mediocre workouts that a baby can do.
After everyone settled in, Mack turned the CD player on and Diana Ross belted out "I'm Coming Out." At that moment, Mack transformed into a drill sergeant, and we each felt the pain. It was a pain like no other. It was pleasurable and definitely wanted.
What made it enjoyable was hearing the tunes that were being played. He played tunes like Cheryl Lynn's "Got to be Real," Madonna's "Like A Virgin," Sheila E's "Glamorous Life," and many more that we all sung while lunging and squatting.
While doing a chest press, I looked in the mirror to peek to see what the other women in class were doing. Seeing the smiles and the unity made me feel empowered. I know that it is "weird" to think of this while suffering from excruciating pain, but I felt good to be a woman.
I was doing something for me for a change. Getting in tune with my mind, body, and soul and pushing it to the next level.
What was the last thing that you done that made your feel awesome? Is there any hobby/activity that you do daily that makes you feel like you're "sitting on top of the world?"
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
WE DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT ALASKA, AND SHE DOESN'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT HER HOUSEHOLD
John McCain's VP pick, Sarah Palin, has some skeletons in her closet that has been leaked. Her 17 year old daughter Bristol is 5 months pregnant. Of course, McCain's campaign would love to sweep this on under the rug. According to McCain's spokesperson, Schmidt "Life happens."
We live in a modern society and yes it is not anything "new" for a teenager to get pregnant and have a baby out of wedlock. But your ordinary teenagers mother is not a candidate to be the Vice President of the USA.
Every Repulican seems to be in an uproar about the media airing out Palin's teen daughter. However, republicans are naturally twisting the story in another direction by saying, "at least she didn't get an abortion." So that makes it right?
Let's think about who we want to help run our country. Since Sarah Palin is supposedly such a responsible, pro life, PTA, family oriented mom, then where was she when her daughter was underage drinking and getting knocked up by some jockey that considers himself a "f---in" redneck (according to his myspace page)?
Monday, September 1, 2008
THE WEAK CAN NEVER FORGIVE -Gandhi
Happy Labor Day!
Okay so I am back from a holiday weekend. Of course there was lots of food and friends and family involved in this short but fun weekend. I also had a little bit of free time to think about a topic that I seem to battle with very often.
That topic happens to be Forgiveness.
When and why should you forgive and how do you move on from hurt?
It's not that I don't have the strength to forgive someone when they hurt me, it's just that I don't know when to forgive. I don't want anyone to confuse me pardoning them of their wrong doing as me being weak. I also find it difficult because I don't want someone to continuously hurt me because he/she knows that I will turn the other cheek.
Someone very dear to me always says, "Aren't you a Christian?"
And my response is, "Yes."
"So you shouldn't have a problem with forgiving anyone!"
This is true, but I have to protect myself as well. To me, any man who lets someone pain them time after time is a fool.
However according to the Word, "God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another" John 1:5-7
I want to live in God's likeness as much as I possibly can. Although it isn't easy, I know that for every person who have hurt me in the past I have forgiven, or shall forgive because I know that once I get rid of the evil then I can live freely.
Happy Labor Day!
Okay so I am back from a holiday weekend. Of course there was lots of food and friends and family involved in this short but fun weekend. I also had a little bit of free time to think about a topic that I seem to battle with very often.
That topic happens to be Forgiveness.
When and why should you forgive and how do you move on from hurt?
It's not that I don't have the strength to forgive someone when they hurt me, it's just that I don't know when to forgive. I don't want anyone to confuse me pardoning them of their wrong doing as me being weak. I also find it difficult because I don't want someone to continuously hurt me because he/she knows that I will turn the other cheek.
Someone very dear to me always says, "Aren't you a Christian?"
And my response is, "Yes."
"So you shouldn't have a problem with forgiving anyone!"
This is true, but I have to protect myself as well. To me, any man who lets someone pain them time after time is a fool.
However according to the Word, "God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another" John 1:5-7
I want to live in God's likeness as much as I possibly can. Although it isn't easy, I know that for every person who have hurt me in the past I have forgiven, or shall forgive because I know that once I get rid of the evil then I can live freely.
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