One Man Can Change The World

      


      Big Sean's cut "One Man Can Change The World" is one to keep on your anthem list. I love hearing inspiring tracks from young artists; it gives me hope that all is not lost. I don't need to hear 20+ cuss words every verse, or envision all the fantasies you've brought to life. Every black person isn't out for the next high, or selling it. I have a dream or two and I need tracks such as "One Man Can Change The World" to keep me going. Big Sean had a praying grandmother and it shows; he's young and wise.
              One man can change the world is solidified truth. I'm not speaking on the song, but on the statement itself. Where would we be if any leader male or female didn't operate on faith? Everyone has a gift to share and it'll make room for you in this world. Your gift is life changing for you and the people assigned to the sound of your voice. It's on you to have the faith to believe that your gift could change the world. One thing's for sure, you'll never know if you don't try. I challenge you to do one thing you've never done before the year is out. You can write one page to your new book; write one song for your new CD; draw one sketch; sew one outfit for your new collection etc. Just do it, whatever it may be.


Pressing on to
                                          Another Day Forward
                                                                                                    Until Next Time...

Generational Curses: Bobbi Kristina Brown

               I hated to hear of Bobbi Kristina's passing. I wanted her to survive and come out of the coma. I knew if she passed in February, the media would just tear her and Whitney apart. I'm a big Whitney Houston fan. I cried like a baby when Whitney passed. I'm aware of the charges and vices for both women. However, has anyone ever asked how Whitney ended up being an addict? Whitney did start in the industry young. I'm not looking for excuses, but I feel there's a reason for everything. Whitney had a hard time accepting she was good enough. Did she ever know how she was truly adored?
                Bobbi Kristina witnessed her parents ups and downs. Parents are our examples. The situations people get into are generational curses. Addicts will beget addicts if God isn't in the picture. What were Bobbi Kristina's beliefs when it came to God? I remember when Bobby and Whitney were baptized in that river years back. Did Bobbi Kristina ever get baptized? I pray she had that opportunity. Her world was unstable and her life was short because of it. We (parents) have to watch the seeds we sow because we might not reap it, but our children or grandchildren could. God said the sins of the father could fall on 4 generations. This gives us every reason to watch the choices we make on a daily basis, right?
         
                                           Whitney & Bobbi Kristina was here...


Pressing on to
                                      Another Day Forward
                                                                                         Until Next Time.....

Chattanooga, Tn Makes Headline News

    
   You couldn't have paid me to believe that such an event of domestic terrorism would happen here in my hometown, or become a CNN headline. There was an armed man who targeted two National Guard facilities. He fired 25-30 shots in a blink of an eye. There were 4 fatalities and 3 injured in the aftermath. I can see the uneasiness in people's faces. My husband and I didn't know the full story until 1pm that afternoon. He got a call around 12:30pm informing him not to travel near Amnicola Hwy. My husband just said " a cop got shot on Amnicola". We just assumed a dope dealer was running from the cops and retaliated. I knew the story had to  be bigger because it was announced on the radio that the major networks were headed to Chattanooga for the police conference. I had no choice but to believe it because the coverage was ALL over the news. We were definitely a small town on edge. I'm an unarmed officer in Security. This event makes me reevaluate my protective methods. I can reprimand unruly people daily, but to deal with a terrorist is another level. I humbly pray for comfort for the family of the 4 men slain. I guarantee they didn't see this coming in life. This situation affirms to me, to never underestimate a small town. Life is truly unpredicatable; anything CAN happen.


 Pressing on to
                                      Another Day Forward
                                                                                              Until Next Time

Thugs v/s Kings

           Which 4 letter word describes you? The two will never be the same. A thug can never be a king and vice versa. Kings go church; thugs live in the clubs, especially strip clubs. This is how Future could mess up his happy home with Ciara. I'm a fan of Future's; no shade, but you should know when to turn in your "player's card". Kings work; thugs slang. I've dated a dope dealer or two and the money is fast, yet it comes with a lot of trouble. Your phone gets tapped, people knocking at your door all times of the night; your significant other going in and out of jail. Any legal job is better than all that turmoil. Kings love coming home to a peaceful woman of course; thugs run the streets. Thugs have to be with their boys. There is nothing heavenly in the streets at the end of the day. Chop it up however you wish. Kings take care of their family without having to be asked. He can see Lil 'D is outgrowing his jeans or shoes like you can. Thugs take money from their girl; they keep excuses on deck. Some queens are dating thugs and got the positions all wrong, like Yung Joc's girlfriend on Love & Hip Hop Atlanta. He's supposed to lead and provide. I believe in a woman getting out to work herself but don't emasculate him in the process. Who's the man, him or you? Kings show love; thugs hurt you. Kings don't hit you; thugs will treat you like a man on the street. For example, Yung Berg didn't have to dump Hazel's purse out on the ground like he did on Love & Hip Hop Hollywood. Saigon acted a complete fool with Erika on Love & Hip Hop New York. You think their child will like seeing his mother treated like that when he gets older. I watch it all and I learn from everybody. Kings respect their wives or girlfriends. Thugs got everybody and their mama in their bedrooms. Weigh the scales for yourself. Is their more bad than good? If the answer is more bad than good, then my friend it is time to make a move. If their is more good than bad, then let time do her thing. Men definitely need time to mature and they will get there. Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, and Mendecees didn't need a gun to their head to make it right with their ladies, did they? My grandma always said "if it takes a man longer than 2 years to make you his wife, then you're wasting your time". It don't take all day to recognize sunshine, do it?



Pressing on to
                                               Another Day Forward
                                                                                                       Until Next Time....

Deadweight Daddy

          I'm 38 years old with 10 half-siblings. My dad has 5 boys and 6 girls including me, ranging from 48-27 years of age. There are at least 9 nieces and nephews that I know of thanks to Facebook. Yes, Facebook and this is where my dilemma begins. I always knew of one sister and one brother growing up because my mom told me of them. I met one of my younger brothers in 1990 because we were attending the same school at the time. I was in the 8th grade and he was in the 5th grade. We didn't have a clue that we were related. My homeroom teacher asked me if I was related to this child because we had the same last name. I told the teacher that we weren't related. He was a unruly student too; I wasn't trying to hear this news. My teacher said " I think you should take a look into that". I laughed at him and left.
           God being God I started watching the child and noticed certain features he did have. I asked my best friend at the time to ask him who his dad was. She asked him and he said my dad's name. I  was in disbelief. I met the oldest brother in 1993 because we were attending the same high school. He was 17 years old and I was 15 years old. He was a junior and I was a sophomore. We both chose Drafting as our vocational class. This was the brother I always knew of, but he didn't have a clue who I was. I was conflicted whether to tell him or not. He was popular and I was a book worm; we were night and day.
            God being God again we came into the truth over a Six Flags trip we were about to have. We both joined FBLA and in return they were taking us to Six Flags. My teacher was writing out my receipt for the trip. My brother sounded out my name as he was writing it and then he asked me who my dad was. I said our dad's name and he was in tears and disbelief. I felt helpless. I didn't know how to comfort him. I'm 15 years old; I shouldn't be meeting siblings in school. This is my dad's responsibility right? He created me, I didn't create him. I did have a relationship with my dad until he married this woman. My oldest brother and I turned out to have a cool relationship and then we got distant in adulthood. He introduced me to one of my older sisters in 1993, I was  16 and she was 23 years old. She claims she doesn't remember this day, but I'll get to that later. Who forgets meeting a half-sister? He also introduced me to 3 little brothers and a younger sister. My dad had these 4 in his new marriage and the bad little boy I met first was the oldest of this little group.
             Our reunion went smoothly, but I didn't see them again until I was 17 years old. My dad didn't know I was working at this buffet and brought the kids with him. They asked him about me, and he's never denied me, yet they are all strangers to me, why? Some of our kids are close in age. My son went to high school with one of my nephews (his cousin) and they're strangers. Sometimes I wish I knew nothing, but unfortunately I do. I just tell my kids to keep it moving; to accept that we'll never know my dad's side.
            In 2011, I reached out one last time on Facebook. This is where that sister I met in 1993 claimed she didn't remember meeting me then. I guess I imagined dad's blue Cutlass Sierra too, or that Sade's "Kiss of Life" was playing on the radio and we were both fans of it. Yeah, it's all in my head. Here I was 34 years old still trying to know brothers and sisters; nieces and nephews, pathetic right?  I told the Lord that this would be the last time I reached out to them. This merry go round has to stop. I settled in my heart that when I turned 40 years old; nobody better come into my presence from his side of the family. It's a weary situation at times and I can't afford to carry around the negativity. I wish my dad and siblings well, but they're all deadweight. I just think it's abnormal to have that many siblings and everyone claim they know God, but we're this distant. I hate my kids have a negative outlook when it comes to family. I feel responsible for that sometimes, yet it's not my fault either, is it? I hate when people say "ain't nothing like family" it means nothing to me and it should, right?


Pressing on to
                                                 Another Day Forward
                                                                                                            Until Next Time....

Queens v/s Bitches

            You didn't get the memo? Yes there is a difference! Just to name a few examples: Queens go to church; bitches go to clubs. I have been to a club before  a few times, but I didn't get lost in the lifestyle. Queens work for money; bitches sex for money. I don't hold my hand out to no man. I expect my man to know his position and provide, but I'm not sitting around waiting on him either. I think it it takes two to provide for a household nowadays. God said "you have to work if you want to eat". Queens cook; bitches don't know how, they want to eat out ALL the time. Yes, I like eating out, but I KNOW how to cook. I would be ashamed to tell a man that I didn't know how to cook. My husband prefer I cook, but I work too, and sometimes we are going to have some Papa John's or KFC moments. Queens stay at home; bitches run the streets. I have children and I can't help them with homework if I'm out kickin' it all the time. I can't spend family time in the streets. Kids shouldn't have to raise themselves. You shouldn't let a child go until they reach 18 years old. They didn't ask to be here. Queens dance; bitches twerk. I explained this in a previous blog. Queens show love; bitches intentionally hurt you. Queens respect the relationship, exemplify faithfulness, and loyalty. Bitches date more than one man, and they disrespect men in private and public. Queens don't need four or five cuss words a sentence. Queens are classy; bitches are ratchet; bottom line.
           Here in recent years; I've noticed bitches are getting the wifey status way too soon. I have to wonder if men really know the difference. Then again, if his mom's a bitch, then how should he know the difference? Now that's the million dollar question.



Pressing on to
                                      Another Day Forward
                                                                                             Until Next Time....

Godly Women Don't Twerk

         I'm sure the title will upset a few women; but if you're not a mother, you probably won't see my point today. Then again, some of these so called mothers are the problem. My daughter LOVES to dance. She does the "Whip & Nae Nae" dance all day everyday. I know the song very well because of her playing it all the time. She loves watching the "Dancing Dolls" show that comes on Lifetime. There is a difference between the Janet Jackson generation and the Beyonce generation. I loved dancing and performing because of Janet Jackson. She was sexy, yet classy. She never had to do stripper like dances to get a man's attention. You either have sex appeal or you don't. Beyonce, God bless her soul is entirely too wild. She gets all the kudos in the world from me because she can perform in heels like she's wearing sneakers. Yet, if I had to choose who I wanted my daughter to emulate. I would choose Janet Jackson with no hesitation. I have a couple of Beyonce CD's. I bought "Dangerously In Love" and "B'Day", so I'm not a hata. I just wish she'd calm it down sometimes.
          I've been proposed to 7 times and I didn't have to pop, drop, lock, or twerk nothing. Go figure. I've been married 5 years as of now and he still like coming home to me lol. Go figure. I didn't have to do gay things, or get caught up in trisexual activity (people experimenting) to get a man's attention. Men that want two women at the same time are just selfish and women are helping them stay that way. Sex is spiritual. You're mending your soul with another soul and now they want to put another soul on top of that? God isn't with that. There's nothing blessed about the situation. You're bringing strife to your own life. Just cause it can be done, doesn't mean it need to be done. My daughter and I can't listen to Dej Loaf together or Trey Songz and Chris Brown. Their lyrics are too graphic. I could watch "Soul Train" with my mom. What happened? Wreckx N Effect came out with the song "Rumpshaker" in '91 or '92. I remember trying to shake it at 14 years old and my mom walked in and busted me. Thank God she cared to reprimand me. She has raised me to be a lady not a bitch. How does your mom see you? Then by all means, act accordingly, starting today.


Pressing on to
                                                     Another Day Forward
                                                                                                      Until Next Time.....

The Revival Will Not Be Televised

         The definition of revolution is "an abrupt political overthrow or seizure of power brought about from within a given system". Another definition is "activities directed toward effecting basic changes in the socioeconomic structure". African Americans don't need a revolution, they need a revival. One definition of revival is "restoration to use, acceptance, activity, or vigor after obscurity or quiescence". God is light, and after observing the times of today; I'll have to say we've definitely strayed away from the light. Obscurity means to be deficient of light. Quiescence means to be inactive or still. There are marches and meetings arranged all the time and yet, things still stay the same. After reading and dissecting both definitions; I'll declare again that we need a REVIVAL not a REVOLUTION. My mom used to play Gil-Scott Heron's "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" all the time in my youth. I got the message of the song, yet in this present time I say "The Revival Will Not Be Televised". No one will see God coming. He said He would come like a thief in the night. I see how that could come to pass because some people take God for a joke. There's a show named "Black Jesus" that comes on Comedy Central and it's very blasphemous. Do I think God is only coming back for African Americans, of course not. I can only speak from my point of view in the world. The revival is for His chosen of all ethnicities. As of now I don't think African Americans are living up to their fullest potential. I read how Mary McLeod Bethune started a college with only a hundred dollars. Now we have countless millionaires in the black community and we're like hamsters running in the wheel. We're moving, but not accomplishing anything major as pertaining to life changing laws. What is wrong with this picture? I admit and understand that certain systems have been developed to hold us back as a people. These systems can be overcome by all of us aligning ourselves spiritually with God. Revivify us Lord!



Pressing on to
                                         Another Day Forward
                                                                                                  Until Next Time......

Beautiful Flawed Creature: Bill Cosby

       Let him without sin, cast the first stone! I surrender; I stated before that I am a fair person. I was told Bill Cosby was trying to get his own television network like Oprah Winfrey, and that brought the heat he's been under for the past few months. I was rooting for Bill Cosby to overcome the scandal because I grew up watching this man. I was a die hard "Fat Albert" fan. Bill Cosby was happiness and love in action for me as a child. I loved "The Cosby Show", of course because of "Rudy" and her being close to my age at the time. Bill Cosby was "that" father for all black children who had a absent dad in the home. He showed me how a father should be; how my husband should treat me; flirt with me etc. I got all of that from watching the show. Do I throw the baby out with the bathwater now because of the outcome in recent events; his hands are dirty. I say no, as the saying goes "don't regret nothing if it made you smile". Bill Cosby brought a lot of joy to my childhood. As an adult, I wasn't that big of a fan. I thought he could be a bit snobbish actually. He could come across real judgemental at times, especially with black women. I take the sour with the sweet. To be fair, with entertainment being all about the image. I understand why they would snatch the show. We never know what people are doing behind closed doors. What you do in the dark eventually comes to the light.

Pressing on to

                                      Another Day Forward

                                                                                          Until Next Time.....

Dukes or Rednecks?

    
     



   I heard through the grapevine the television show "Dukes of Hazzard" was being pulled off of television due to the Confederate flag being painted on the infamous orange Charger they drive on the show. I was a die hard fan of the show growing up. I didn't have the luxury of 100+ channels in my youth as my kids do today. "Dukes of Hazzard" was  exciting to watch to me as a child. I didn't know anything about Confederate flags, rednecks, or racism. My grandmother and I would watch "Hee-Haw" on a weekly basis. It was just something to watch to me and I actually thought the show was funny. As an adult, I noticed the flag on the car the "Dukes" were driving and wondered "were the "Dukes" rednecks"? They were living in the country, and there wasn't anything "classy" about Uncle Jesse.Yet, this show was a part of my childhood and other African-Americans back in that time frame. 
          Let's investigate the matter for ourselves. The definition of duke is "a nobleman with the HIGHEST hereditary rank" or "a prince who rules an independent duchy". This doesn't describe the "Dukes". The definition of a redneck is "chiefly used for a rural poor white person in the Southern part of the United States. The term can be identified with the term hillbilly. Uncle Jesse strikes me more of a hillbilly than a nobleman. The definition of a hillbilly is "one from the mountains or backwoods". Where did the "Dukes" & Uncle Jesse live? Correct, in the backwoods. The only time we saw black people on the show were when they were up to no good with the other robbers. I think there was one black States Trooper, but his presence wasn't consistent. Who have African-Americans been adoring really?


Yet we press on to 
                                        Another Day Forward
                                                                                             Until Next Time.....  

Let's Be Clear!

            I am not racist nor am I prejudiced. Yet, I do believe in calling a spade a spade. I do believe in the Word of God. I weigh all circumstances through righteous scales. Let's keep it simple, wrong is wrong and right is right. Rape, murder, molestation, robbery, assault, etc. It's all wrong in my eye no matter what ethnicity you are. A crime is a crime, period. I think Angelina Jolie was great in "Girl Interrupted", yet I love Denzel Washington in "The Great Debaters", yet he won an Oscar for being a thug cop in "Training Day". I can listen to Common one day and listen to Coldplay the next. I'm an open minded individual. I am an 38 year old African-American. I recently found out I have an Haitian heritage due to a funeral in 2011, so I'm still learning my own journey. No one has it ALL figured out, yet there are some ridiculous laws being made, blatant disrespect to God Himself, and no compassion for life or children. This is a problem for me.
         I think it's an awful thing that happened to Matthew Shepphard. He was killed at an young age just because he was gay. Though I can have compassion for his life, I still stand on the Word of God when it states that homosexuality is a sin. I wish Bruce Jenner would have found a better way to feel comfortable in his own skin, Yet, I respect his freedom of choice like God does. I'm not going to give him a hard time because of what I believe in and how I believe it. I know the Bible states that men shouldn't dress like women and vice versa. You either obey or disobey, it's as simple as that. The Bible has the last say so in my life. Hopefully, Another Day Forward will be enlightening, reflective, as well as heart changing. I will not be kissing ass through this blog to be politically correct. I love transparent people. I can admit it and quit it.  I was raised to say what I mean and mean what I say. You will get no Kanye West moment's out of me. I think about everything that come out of my mouth first. I am not militant nor non-violent. If it's worth fighting for, then let's go to war.
        There are too many young African-Americans getting shot down left and right, and being overlooked because they had a "past", and the offender walks free. Why shouldn't that be a problem for me as a mother of an 18 year old male myself. Trayvon Martin was 17 years old. I shouldn't have to be so thankful that my boy made it to 18; don't that sound ridiculous? I know it's going to take more than people wearing hoodies, making posters with "Black Lives Matter", and arranging marches here and there. Only God can change a persons heart. My son stated to me that Christians/Believers were weak. I informed him that we are not weak by a long shot. God gets angry; God kills; and God went to war when it was necessary. All those examples ARE biblically based. So, will someone answer my million dollar question.? Everybody claims to be a Christian or Believer from the President to the dope dealer. If this is the case, then why is there so much sin overlooked in the world? I'll answer my own million dollar question. The answer is this, children of God are not reading the Bible like they should be, and they aren't applying the principles appropiately. We couldn't be, or the world wouldn't be this way. I believe this wholeheartedly. Does anyone want to tell me I'm wrong for thinking this way?

             Yet, our world turns to
                                                       Another Day Forward
                                                                                                   Until Next Time.......