On the eve of a history making democratic debate, I began to look back down the crossroads of time, reminiscent of how we got here.
As I strolled through the dark days for the sixties from Selma to Montgomery, I ran across an unfamilar name of a fallen soldier.
I am sure as most people, I did not recognize this fallen Civil Rights activist. The first thing that came to mine was,
"Viola Liuzzo who?"
I began to think out loud, this does not sound like a black person's name. Neither does this sound like a man's name. No, this person seems to be a white woman. Do you mean a white woman is among those who gave their lives for Hillary and Obama to face off tonight in an equal forum???
You know my cultural heart rate was off the charts. My consciousness was tasered by this revelation. Ms Liuzzo was a 39 years old mother of five who was murdered by the KKK in 1965 after the march to Mongomery march in Alabama.
Ms Liuzzo got involved with the civil rights movement after seeing the horrible images of the aborted march at the Edmund Pettus Bridge. She is noted to have said, this struggle, "was everybody's fight!"
Wow!
What a powerful statement!
A statement that is as relevent today as then.
So as we watch this historical debate tonight we must put this snapshot into perscective. Not only has this been a long time coming, but it came with a very high cost.
Whether black or white, male or female, young or old, rich or poor; we all must be reminiscent of the long hard blood stain road that we as a people have traveled to get here...
So as we watch history being made tonight right in front of our eyes with our family and friends, let us take note.
Viola Liuzzo made history in 1965 that has taken this long to be realized. The struggle is not a black thing, it's a civil rights thing...
It's a human rights thing...
We must not forget!
We can not!
We will not forget!
"Viola Liuzzo Who?"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viola_Liuzzo
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
"We As A People!"
It is impossible not to be culturally conscious of where we are at this snapshot in time. It has been a photo shoot in the makings for over forty years. I am sure that as many of the now active participates in this election, listened to Dr. King's speak of a time he referred to as "we as a people" oh so many years ago, visualized this snapshot of this very time.
This time when his words would be a reality.
Now they can say, "we are here!"
The torch has been passed on to them.
They are no longer the generation of the future, they have become the generation of the now. They are the ones in the snapshot. And it is the now generation's time to inspire the next generation to visualize their own video clip (snapshot) of a greater tomorrow. It was afforded to them and now it is their responsibility to pass it on.
They have inherited the cultural responsibility to cause a generation to visualize, to dream and to imagine their own video clip (snapshot) that one day they too will see fulfilled.
This is the energy that, as Jesse has so eloquently said so many times before that, "Keep Hope Alive!"
Now they have the torch.
What will they do with it?
Will they as those that have gone on before them inspire a generation take to take up the torch and march in the spirit of "we as a people" into their bright tomorrow?
Or will they forget the words of their forefathers and allow the "evil of self" to destroy what has fueled this movement of equality; from the puritans, the abolitionist, the freedom fighters, and the civil rights leaders until now.
History, is in their hands.
When this future generation looks back in history, what will history have recorded of this time. A people that passed the torch with the grace of those that came before them, or ones that put self before those they hope to serve.
Time will tell and time will not lie...
So what do we say to these things?
"We as a People" can make history.
So we as a people must overcome the ways of the pass and set a course that history will not be able to refuse to record.
I, as many, have been a close observer of what is happening culturally in our nation and around the world in this time. In our immediate consciousness the most popular Cultural happening is this "race for president of the United States!" As a nation, this is the most unique election process ever.
For the first time we have a white woman and a black man vigorously competing for this office.
Culturally Speaking this has been a long time coming. There has been a lot of conversation about the heighten anxiety both candidates are experiencing as they try to make their case to the American people in each debate.
These debates have been really electrifying and exhilarating. More like a championship heavyweight fight. People plan debate parties with their friends and each cheer their candidate on. Often times these parties consist of families where the spouses and children are all on different sides. This causes a cultural phenomenon called the "debate after the debate."
This is where each side vigorously reiterates why he, she, or they have chosen their candidate. This debate after the debate spills over from day to day, venue to venue, home to home, and job to job. And believe me, everybody has an opinion. I am sure this will go on until the day the winner is inaugurated.
This cultural shift has proven to be the most exciting, thought provoking and polarizing electoral contest of our generation.
I believe there is no question that this Cultural Shift will for the better take us as a nation to a place we have never been before. Our Cultural past has been one quilted patch work of; many ups and downs; periods of unity and division; and dark and bright days. But as with any quilt, it takes a patch work of all different colors, shapes, and sizes to bring out it's beauty and provide it's comfort.
Now it is time for this generation to put aside their differences and come together as "we as a people!" And together make history. Just like that quilt, each part comes together to make the whole.
The world is watching...
Let's not let them down...
The bible say, "to whom much is given, much is required!"
But one can only give from what one has to give...
I believe that those that are in high positions must be unifier to bring us together as a people. There is room for everyone to play their role to lead us into a new tomorrow. I hate to keep bringing up the military but it is apart of my cultural DNA. In the military, every soldier is a leader. It is just a matter of time when the load will be placed on his/her shoulders. They will only be ready if they have learned all the tasks given to them along the way. There is no pass because lives are at stack...
We as a people (democratic candidates) must do the right thing and make history by taking our right place in the line of change. Get in where we fit in. Don't give into the forces from the right...
And let's make history together...
We can do this!!!
"Yes, We Can!"
"We As A People!"
This time when his words would be a reality.
Now they can say, "we are here!"
The torch has been passed on to them.
They are no longer the generation of the future, they have become the generation of the now. They are the ones in the snapshot. And it is the now generation's time to inspire the next generation to visualize their own video clip (snapshot) of a greater tomorrow. It was afforded to them and now it is their responsibility to pass it on.
They have inherited the cultural responsibility to cause a generation to visualize, to dream and to imagine their own video clip (snapshot) that one day they too will see fulfilled.
This is the energy that, as Jesse has so eloquently said so many times before that, "Keep Hope Alive!"
Now they have the torch.
What will they do with it?
Will they as those that have gone on before them inspire a generation take to take up the torch and march in the spirit of "we as a people" into their bright tomorrow?
Or will they forget the words of their forefathers and allow the "evil of self" to destroy what has fueled this movement of equality; from the puritans, the abolitionist, the freedom fighters, and the civil rights leaders until now.
History, is in their hands.
When this future generation looks back in history, what will history have recorded of this time. A people that passed the torch with the grace of those that came before them, or ones that put self before those they hope to serve.
Time will tell and time will not lie...
So what do we say to these things?
"We as a People" can make history.
So we as a people must overcome the ways of the pass and set a course that history will not be able to refuse to record.
I, as many, have been a close observer of what is happening culturally in our nation and around the world in this time. In our immediate consciousness the most popular Cultural happening is this "race for president of the United States!" As a nation, this is the most unique election process ever.
For the first time we have a white woman and a black man vigorously competing for this office.
Culturally Speaking this has been a long time coming. There has been a lot of conversation about the heighten anxiety both candidates are experiencing as they try to make their case to the American people in each debate.
These debates have been really electrifying and exhilarating. More like a championship heavyweight fight. People plan debate parties with their friends and each cheer their candidate on. Often times these parties consist of families where the spouses and children are all on different sides. This causes a cultural phenomenon called the "debate after the debate."
This is where each side vigorously reiterates why he, she, or they have chosen their candidate. This debate after the debate spills over from day to day, venue to venue, home to home, and job to job. And believe me, everybody has an opinion. I am sure this will go on until the day the winner is inaugurated.
This cultural shift has proven to be the most exciting, thought provoking and polarizing electoral contest of our generation.
I believe there is no question that this Cultural Shift will for the better take us as a nation to a place we have never been before. Our Cultural past has been one quilted patch work of; many ups and downs; periods of unity and division; and dark and bright days. But as with any quilt, it takes a patch work of all different colors, shapes, and sizes to bring out it's beauty and provide it's comfort.
Now it is time for this generation to put aside their differences and come together as "we as a people!" And together make history. Just like that quilt, each part comes together to make the whole.
The world is watching...
Let's not let them down...
The bible say, "to whom much is given, much is required!"
But one can only give from what one has to give...
I believe that those that are in high positions must be unifier to bring us together as a people. There is room for everyone to play their role to lead us into a new tomorrow. I hate to keep bringing up the military but it is apart of my cultural DNA. In the military, every soldier is a leader. It is just a matter of time when the load will be placed on his/her shoulders. They will only be ready if they have learned all the tasks given to them along the way. There is no pass because lives are at stack...
We as a people (democratic candidates) must do the right thing and make history by taking our right place in the line of change. Get in where we fit in. Don't give into the forces from the right...
And let's make history together...
We can do this!!!
"Yes, We Can!"
"We As A People!"
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
"Obama Ain't No JFK!"
It's been rumored that when Lady Bird Johnson heard of Bill Clinton's romp in the Oval office with Monica Lewinsky, she said, "Bill Clinton ain't no L. B. J."
In this campaign season where candidates are dropping names like a "bright eyed want-to-be fresh off the bus in Hollywood," let me say that "Obama ain't no JFK. There are several facts one could list that would distinctly show this truth, but this blog is not big enough to list them all...
So I am puzzled at Senator Edward Kennedy's comparison of Obama with his beloved brother. Is there something else behind this so public endorsement? What was the characteristic he saw in Obama that has escaped me.
First of all, JFK was a war hero... Dahhhhh!!!!
I could and probably should stop right there. But you know me I must go on...
Ok, Obama has the gift of gab (Eloquent Speaking ability).
When did the ability to deliver a great speech become one of the top qualifications of a President. I guess you all miss the SOTU speech last night...
Need I say more???
JFK could not only speak well but his speeches were delivered with a conviction that caused people to want to follow him into a better future. It is one thing to talk about change but entirely another to have the political savvy to bring it about. Kennedy galvanized the Democratic party.
Obama is causing huge divisions.
The one question that everyone ask them self when making a decision to vote of Obama is, "why?"
Why am I giving my vote to this man?
Is it because he is black?
Is it because he is young?
Is it because he is eloquent?
Or is it simply because i like him?
It is amazing to me that in all the discussions that I have heard about Obama, no one says, "what he has done???"
Now it is my turn to ask "Why?"
Why is it when you walk into the barber shop and this discussion is going on, when the question of "what has Obama done," comes up, everybody gets quiet. Is this because no one really knows anything significant that he has done.
Yes, he is a junior senator.
Him and many others.
Yes, he worked with the poor in Chicago.
I am sure there are countless pastors, priest, social workers and many others who could claim the same thing.
Ok, he wrote a book about himself.
Wow!!! Kinda young to do that at that time, but...
Either way, what has he done that would make one say, "because of this I believe he has the intestinal fortitude to withstand the hardship that comes with this great office."
I just don't see it...
I don't believe that you must be a war hero to be a president, but that does give you a documented record one can look at to assess the sum of the man/woman.
Many years in public service also lays out a track record of victories and defeats one can draw from in order measure one's convictions and beliefs.
If one has a long running successful business career, it show leadership ability, discipline, and tactfulness.
But without any of these things, then what is left for one to ascertain ones qualifications to be president of the United States of America?
Don't look at me, I am trying to figure this thing out myself...
Let's deal with this thing called, "change!"
I too believe that this country needs "change!"
But "change" at what cost?
I would love to change my occupation, but I must first count up the cost. Do I just jump off the boat with no plan into an uncertain tomorrow. Well I could, but there is a 50/50 chance of success or failure. The success I can handle but it's the sleeping on the street that let's me know this is not worth the gamble. In order for me to make "change" in my life, I must have a solid plan...
I must first gather information about the change I desire to make.
I must select some courses of action.
Then I must make a plan...
This is called a "win win" situation.
I believe that Americans truly want "change," but not in a negative way... So "change" can be positive or negative. Everyone talks about "change" but never specify the fact that they are actually talking about "Positive Change!"
Yes, we can make history all right, but let's make the kind of history we really want... We have the opportunity to make our vote count toward making history with "Positive Change" for a better tomorrow.
This is our duty...
Duty has nothing to do with self interest or personal feelings...
Duty has to do with "Convictions and belief."
A strong belief in democracy and the political process.
It is our duty to evaluate the strength and weaknesses of each candidate based on the facts... Then make our decision based on what is best for our country and the world. I know this is a heavy burden. I know it would be easier to just to pick a candidate based on how they make us feel. But I am sure you have seen the TV trails where the defendant is found guilty of some horrible crime and there are those who are die hard supporter...
Dahhhh!!!
They had strong feelings too...
Hummmm!!!
I am not trying to "change" any one's mind as to whom you should cast your precious vote.
I am only trying to make you think.
It takes work to make "history!"
And regardless who you vote for you will get "change!"
But remember,
"Obama ain't no JFK!!!"
In this campaign season where candidates are dropping names like a "bright eyed want-to-be fresh off the bus in Hollywood," let me say that "Obama ain't no JFK. There are several facts one could list that would distinctly show this truth, but this blog is not big enough to list them all...
So I am puzzled at Senator Edward Kennedy's comparison of Obama with his beloved brother. Is there something else behind this so public endorsement? What was the characteristic he saw in Obama that has escaped me.
First of all, JFK was a war hero... Dahhhhh!!!!
I could and probably should stop right there. But you know me I must go on...
Ok, Obama has the gift of gab (Eloquent Speaking ability).
When did the ability to deliver a great speech become one of the top qualifications of a President. I guess you all miss the SOTU speech last night...
Need I say more???
JFK could not only speak well but his speeches were delivered with a conviction that caused people to want to follow him into a better future. It is one thing to talk about change but entirely another to have the political savvy to bring it about. Kennedy galvanized the Democratic party.
Obama is causing huge divisions.
The one question that everyone ask them self when making a decision to vote of Obama is, "why?"
Why am I giving my vote to this man?
Is it because he is black?
Is it because he is young?
Is it because he is eloquent?
Or is it simply because i like him?
It is amazing to me that in all the discussions that I have heard about Obama, no one says, "what he has done???"
Now it is my turn to ask "Why?"
Why is it when you walk into the barber shop and this discussion is going on, when the question of "what has Obama done," comes up, everybody gets quiet. Is this because no one really knows anything significant that he has done.
Yes, he is a junior senator.
Him and many others.
Yes, he worked with the poor in Chicago.
I am sure there are countless pastors, priest, social workers and many others who could claim the same thing.
Ok, he wrote a book about himself.
Wow!!! Kinda young to do that at that time, but...
Either way, what has he done that would make one say, "because of this I believe he has the intestinal fortitude to withstand the hardship that comes with this great office."
I just don't see it...
I don't believe that you must be a war hero to be a president, but that does give you a documented record one can look at to assess the sum of the man/woman.
Many years in public service also lays out a track record of victories and defeats one can draw from in order measure one's convictions and beliefs.
If one has a long running successful business career, it show leadership ability, discipline, and tactfulness.
But without any of these things, then what is left for one to ascertain ones qualifications to be president of the United States of America?
Don't look at me, I am trying to figure this thing out myself...
Let's deal with this thing called, "change!"
I too believe that this country needs "change!"
But "change" at what cost?
I would love to change my occupation, but I must first count up the cost. Do I just jump off the boat with no plan into an uncertain tomorrow. Well I could, but there is a 50/50 chance of success or failure. The success I can handle but it's the sleeping on the street that let's me know this is not worth the gamble. In order for me to make "change" in my life, I must have a solid plan...
I must first gather information about the change I desire to make.
I must select some courses of action.
Then I must make a plan...
This is called a "win win" situation.
I believe that Americans truly want "change," but not in a negative way... So "change" can be positive or negative. Everyone talks about "change" but never specify the fact that they are actually talking about "Positive Change!"
Yes, we can make history all right, but let's make the kind of history we really want... We have the opportunity to make our vote count toward making history with "Positive Change" for a better tomorrow.
This is our duty...
Duty has nothing to do with self interest or personal feelings...
Duty has to do with "Convictions and belief."
A strong belief in democracy and the political process.
It is our duty to evaluate the strength and weaknesses of each candidate based on the facts... Then make our decision based on what is best for our country and the world. I know this is a heavy burden. I know it would be easier to just to pick a candidate based on how they make us feel. But I am sure you have seen the TV trails where the defendant is found guilty of some horrible crime and there are those who are die hard supporter...
Dahhhh!!!
They had strong feelings too...
Hummmm!!!
I am not trying to "change" any one's mind as to whom you should cast your precious vote.
I am only trying to make you think.
It takes work to make "history!"
And regardless who you vote for you will get "change!"
But remember,
"Obama ain't no JFK!!!"
Monday, January 28, 2008
"What does Politics and War have in Common?"
I don’t know why everybody has got their “panties in a wedgie” over how this political contest is being played. Politics is more akin to War, Football, and Professional Boxing than anything I can think of. As one of the candidates so eloquently puts it, “If you are afraid of the sight of your own blood, then buy a ticket and watch it from the stands…” Needless to say, these ring side seats are going at a premium.
Hillary and Bill Clinton has always played to win. I guess they are not afraid of their own blood. Obama needs to learn the rules of the game. If you can’t dazzle them with your rhetoric, then mesmerize them with your “Bulls_ _T. If that don’t work just “sucker punch” them!
Either way Politics is Hell…
But it has to be that way in order to determine who is best fit to be the leader of the free world. As I have said before, “It (Politics) is not for the weary or the weak at heart.”
And for all those people who think that just because you like the way a candidate looks, smiles, smells, talks, or dance is criteria by which we elect a President; you are truly in “La La Land!”
So we actually owe Hillary and Bill Clinton a debt of gratitude for holding no punches. If Hillary loses the Democratic nomination, the winner will be totally drained and bloody, but ready to take on all other contenders. So ladies and gentlemen, let’s get ready for round three! I am sure you will not be disappointed. The superbowl is this weekend. Tickets are going for thousands of dollars. People are spending lots of money for the best seat they can afford to watch these titans tears each other to pieces. The harder the hitting, the fuller the contact, the better…
Wow! And football ain’t got nothing on Politics!!!!
And don’t let these “sideline couch-do-gooders” who defend Obama, fool you. The other aspect about politics (and all the other full contact competitions) is nothing is for free. There is always something in it for them. And besides, if Obama needs for someone to defend him now, what is going to happen when the world comes knocking at our door. Hillary has already let you know that her and Bill will take on all comers. Now Obama is going to have to touch gloves and get ready for the heavy hitting…
Like I said in an earlier post about “Humpty Dumpty,” basically “talk is cheap!” It might sound good, “but it is still cheap!” So if your rhetoric is not backed up with action, the same folk that pushed you up will cheer when you hit the ground. So anyone who runs for the office of President of the United States, must realize that the road to the White House is full of pot holes, mud holes and washouts. One must be able to effectively navigate all these hazards while carrying the weight of the world on his/her shoulders. One should feel honoured to have the opportunity to compete on such a level.
It can only make one better.
Therefore instead of complaining about the assaults, think about the troops you are running to lead, adjust your gear, and march on. Soldiers are trained to learn from every situation and adjust. This has been our advantage in warfare for years, even centuries. We are able to adjust…
If we as a nation chose a weak or untested leader, then what can we expect in the time of crisis. So the testing of a campaign is a small sacrifice one should be willing to go through in order to win the confidence of the People of the United States of America.
You must remember, it is this process that made us the greatest nation in the world.
“What does Politics and War have in common?”
"They are both Hell!"
Hillary and Bill Clinton has always played to win. I guess they are not afraid of their own blood. Obama needs to learn the rules of the game. If you can’t dazzle them with your rhetoric, then mesmerize them with your “Bulls_ _T. If that don’t work just “sucker punch” them!
Either way Politics is Hell…
But it has to be that way in order to determine who is best fit to be the leader of the free world. As I have said before, “It (Politics) is not for the weary or the weak at heart.”
And for all those people who think that just because you like the way a candidate looks, smiles, smells, talks, or dance is criteria by which we elect a President; you are truly in “La La Land!”
So we actually owe Hillary and Bill Clinton a debt of gratitude for holding no punches. If Hillary loses the Democratic nomination, the winner will be totally drained and bloody, but ready to take on all other contenders. So ladies and gentlemen, let’s get ready for round three! I am sure you will not be disappointed. The superbowl is this weekend. Tickets are going for thousands of dollars. People are spending lots of money for the best seat they can afford to watch these titans tears each other to pieces. The harder the hitting, the fuller the contact, the better…
Wow! And football ain’t got nothing on Politics!!!!
And don’t let these “sideline couch-do-gooders” who defend Obama, fool you. The other aspect about politics (and all the other full contact competitions) is nothing is for free. There is always something in it for them. And besides, if Obama needs for someone to defend him now, what is going to happen when the world comes knocking at our door. Hillary has already let you know that her and Bill will take on all comers. Now Obama is going to have to touch gloves and get ready for the heavy hitting…
Like I said in an earlier post about “Humpty Dumpty,” basically “talk is cheap!” It might sound good, “but it is still cheap!” So if your rhetoric is not backed up with action, the same folk that pushed you up will cheer when you hit the ground. So anyone who runs for the office of President of the United States, must realize that the road to the White House is full of pot holes, mud holes and washouts. One must be able to effectively navigate all these hazards while carrying the weight of the world on his/her shoulders. One should feel honoured to have the opportunity to compete on such a level.
It can only make one better.
Therefore instead of complaining about the assaults, think about the troops you are running to lead, adjust your gear, and march on. Soldiers are trained to learn from every situation and adjust. This has been our advantage in warfare for years, even centuries. We are able to adjust…
If we as a nation chose a weak or untested leader, then what can we expect in the time of crisis. So the testing of a campaign is a small sacrifice one should be willing to go through in order to win the confidence of the People of the United States of America.
You must remember, it is this process that made us the greatest nation in the world.
“What does Politics and War have in common?”
"They are both Hell!"
Sunday, January 27, 2008
"Hillary, The Clean-up Woman!!!"
I am curious to know if your reason for voting for Obama is because he is black? I believe the next president will inherit the most messed-up government since the great depression.
Therefore he/she will be blamed for all the failures of his/her predecessor, “Bush.”
Damned if they do and Damned if they don’t.It took a Clinton to clean up the first “Bush” mess!
I believe it is going to take another Clinton to clean this mess up as well. Let Hillary be the clean-up woman. At least Obama would not be the first Black President with so much mess to overcome.
The Clinton’s are good at making and cleaning up mess…Hillary cannot win the Primary election without Obama’s support. Therefore Hillary will have to have Obama as VP in order to win.
Then Obama will be in great position to be president when things are good. Besides, Obama is really young and lacks the necessary experience to actually pull this country together.
It is one thing to be able to talk the talk, but can Obama walk the walk???
That remains to be seen…
But at the end of the day, the citizens of the United State will not be thinking with their heads but with their stomachs…
“Hillary, “The Clean-up Woman!”"
Therefore he/she will be blamed for all the failures of his/her predecessor, “Bush.”
Damned if they do and Damned if they don’t.It took a Clinton to clean up the first “Bush” mess!
I believe it is going to take another Clinton to clean this mess up as well. Let Hillary be the clean-up woman. At least Obama would not be the first Black President with so much mess to overcome.
The Clinton’s are good at making and cleaning up mess…Hillary cannot win the Primary election without Obama’s support. Therefore Hillary will have to have Obama as VP in order to win.
Then Obama will be in great position to be president when things are good. Besides, Obama is really young and lacks the necessary experience to actually pull this country together.
It is one thing to be able to talk the talk, but can Obama walk the walk???
That remains to be seen…
But at the end of the day, the citizens of the United State will not be thinking with their heads but with their stomachs…
“Hillary, “The Clean-up Woman!”"
Thursday, January 24, 2008
"White Men Can't Jump!" vs "Boys In The Hood!"
"WOW!!!"
Ain't this Exciting!!!
OK, here it is...
Bill Clinton (white men can't jump or can they) vs Barrack Obama (boys in the hood or was he)...
This is really exciting stuff...
I believe Bill has answered the question whether he can dance? He seems to be doing the "Ali Shuffle" very well with Obama.
I guess he is a "Brotha!"
Now Obama is not acting like a Brotha when it comes to addressing Bill.
But before I get too far into this situation I want to address a Cultural Shift in History happening right before our eyes.
Bill Clinton has single handily eradicated the "Willie Lynch" philosophy.
Hats off to you Mr. Clinton...
So what am I talking about...
The news media has been trying to turn this race into an issue of white vs black. Bill Clinton's attack on Obama (which is "N-Yo-Face" Hood stuff...Hummm I wonder why Obama can't handle that) has cause conservative news media outlets to defend a black man (Obama) against a white man.
They have totally reversed the "Willie Lynch" syndrome.
This has never before happened in our modern day cultural consciousness where so many white conservatives have sided with the black guy as they are now.
This is the buzz of the new media outlets on every channel...
Also another nail is being driven into "Willie Lynch's" coffin with black women (and need I say men too but not as much), who are not listening to the polls or the press or even each other, but deciding on merit who they are going to give their vote too.
So it seems that we have finally "overcome" the "Willie Lynch" mentality...
It was the "Willie Lynch" mentality that caused us (African Americans) to have the "crabs in a barrel mentality." But with this daily debate in every venue that you enter, we as a people are making our own minds up.
This is "Exciting Stuff!"
I had to make that observation because everyone is so bent on this being about race and it is, "the race for the White House!"
But back to Bill and Obama.
"Good Stuff!!!":)
Bill is acting more like a brotha than Obama.:(
So please allow me to give Obama some notes from,
"Boys N-da-Hood 101."
First of all, I heard a very prominent black radio personality on Lou's show just the other day check another guess when she tried to play him the way Bill is playing Obama.
The host "Man-up'd" and said, "I am not Obama!
I don't suck up to nobody!"
"WOW!!!"
I said, "Now that's a Brotha from the Hood!!!"
So Here are a few Lessons that can "Help a Brotha out," if you know what I mean!!!
"B.N.D.H. 101 - Lesson 1. Man-up! Don't let no one tell you who you are. You tell them!
B.N.D.H. 101 - Lesson 2. Realize when someone is just selling "wolf-tickets!"
Either ignore them or tell them to "Bring it On!"
B.N.D.H. 101 - Lesson 3. "Don't dish it, if you can't take it."
Yo Bro. there are many more but these are the foundations. If you feel like you are being disrespected politically, then he's a brotha, disrespect politically until he gets the point.
Oh, one more...
B.N.D.H. 101 -Lesson 4. Fight-Yo-Own Battles...
Don't let others speak for you, say it yourself...
All fun aside, political debates are not for the weary or weak at heart...
I am sure Bill has read, "The Art of War! by Sun Tzu" many times...
He is using those "time tested tactics" to get an advantage...
Obama is playing "Soft Ball" with a guy that has mastered "The Art of War!"
In short, Obama is too nice!!!
I said in one of my earlier blogs, in order for Obama to win the nomination he would have to win over "white women and black men." Well sir, you can't win them like this...
But no-one can say,
"This ain't some exciting stuff!!!"
I can't wait for round three...
"WOW!!!"
"White Men Can't Jump!" vs "Boys in the Hood!"
Ain't this Exciting!!!
OK, here it is...
Bill Clinton (white men can't jump or can they) vs Barrack Obama (boys in the hood or was he)...
This is really exciting stuff...
I believe Bill has answered the question whether he can dance? He seems to be doing the "Ali Shuffle" very well with Obama.
I guess he is a "Brotha!"
Now Obama is not acting like a Brotha when it comes to addressing Bill.
But before I get too far into this situation I want to address a Cultural Shift in History happening right before our eyes.
Bill Clinton has single handily eradicated the "Willie Lynch" philosophy.
Hats off to you Mr. Clinton...
So what am I talking about...
The news media has been trying to turn this race into an issue of white vs black. Bill Clinton's attack on Obama (which is "N-Yo-Face" Hood stuff...Hummm I wonder why Obama can't handle that) has cause conservative news media outlets to defend a black man (Obama) against a white man.
They have totally reversed the "Willie Lynch" syndrome.
This has never before happened in our modern day cultural consciousness where so many white conservatives have sided with the black guy as they are now.
This is the buzz of the new media outlets on every channel...
Also another nail is being driven into "Willie Lynch's" coffin with black women (and need I say men too but not as much), who are not listening to the polls or the press or even each other, but deciding on merit who they are going to give their vote too.
So it seems that we have finally "overcome" the "Willie Lynch" mentality...
It was the "Willie Lynch" mentality that caused us (African Americans) to have the "crabs in a barrel mentality." But with this daily debate in every venue that you enter, we as a people are making our own minds up.
This is "Exciting Stuff!"
I had to make that observation because everyone is so bent on this being about race and it is, "the race for the White House!"
But back to Bill and Obama.
"Good Stuff!!!":)
Bill is acting more like a brotha than Obama.:(
So please allow me to give Obama some notes from,
"Boys N-da-Hood 101."
First of all, I heard a very prominent black radio personality on Lou's show just the other day check another guess when she tried to play him the way Bill is playing Obama.
The host "Man-up'd" and said, "I am not Obama!
I don't suck up to nobody!"
"WOW!!!"
I said, "Now that's a Brotha from the Hood!!!"
So Here are a few Lessons that can "Help a Brotha out," if you know what I mean!!!
"B.N.D.H. 101 - Lesson 1. Man-up! Don't let no one tell you who you are. You tell them!
B.N.D.H. 101 - Lesson 2. Realize when someone is just selling "wolf-tickets!"
Either ignore them or tell them to "Bring it On!"
B.N.D.H. 101 - Lesson 3. "Don't dish it, if you can't take it."
Yo Bro. there are many more but these are the foundations. If you feel like you are being disrespected politically, then he's a brotha, disrespect politically until he gets the point.
Oh, one more...
B.N.D.H. 101 -Lesson 4. Fight-Yo-Own Battles...
Don't let others speak for you, say it yourself...
All fun aside, political debates are not for the weary or weak at heart...
I am sure Bill has read, "The Art of War! by Sun Tzu" many times...
He is using those "time tested tactics" to get an advantage...
Obama is playing "Soft Ball" with a guy that has mastered "The Art of War!"
In short, Obama is too nice!!!
I said in one of my earlier blogs, in order for Obama to win the nomination he would have to win over "white women and black men." Well sir, you can't win them like this...
But no-one can say,
"This ain't some exciting stuff!!!"
I can't wait for round three...
"WOW!!!"
"White Men Can't Jump!" vs "Boys in the Hood!"
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
"History Being Made Before Our Eyes!"
As I watched the Democratic debate, the visual was overwhelming.
When one thinks of the fact that not so long ago, the diversity of the stage would not have been possible.
Not only the stage participates but the audiance was also made up of people who would not had the chance to even sit in the building, much less be in attendence.
Where the white guy on the stage was truly the minority.
Yes, the fire works were ferrous, but civil.
One must look at what is being displayed as a testament of the struggles that so many have fought for in order for us the be here as a nation.
So history is being made right in front of our eyes!
We should not miss it or diminish it.
History is on the side of the spirited debate.
Each candidate as well as the American people receive the benefit by getting to see the real candidate's strength and weaknesses.
The one thing that history has never recorded until now is this type of even playing field where a woman and black man is in the Frey.
Yes, it is exhilarating to observe.
Now you know I like to keep it interesting...
If the Democrats really want to make history (and this idea's time has come)
then all three candidate take a position in the primary.
So if it is Hillary as the nominee then she chooses Obama as VP and Edwards as potential Secretary of State.
Then History is made in it grandest form right before our eyes...
When one thinks of the fact that not so long ago, the diversity of the stage would not have been possible.
Not only the stage participates but the audiance was also made up of people who would not had the chance to even sit in the building, much less be in attendence.
Where the white guy on the stage was truly the minority.
Yes, the fire works were ferrous, but civil.
One must look at what is being displayed as a testament of the struggles that so many have fought for in order for us the be here as a nation.
So history is being made right in front of our eyes!
We should not miss it or diminish it.
History is on the side of the spirited debate.
Each candidate as well as the American people receive the benefit by getting to see the real candidate's strength and weaknesses.
The one thing that history has never recorded until now is this type of even playing field where a woman and black man is in the Frey.
Yes, it is exhilarating to observe.
Now you know I like to keep it interesting...
If the Democrats really want to make history (and this idea's time has come)
then all three candidate take a position in the primary.
So if it is Hillary as the nominee then she chooses Obama as VP and Edwards as potential Secretary of State.
Then History is made in it grandest form right before our eyes...
Sunday, January 20, 2008
"These Aint the "Sixties!""
These ain't the sixties.
These are the "Zero" years!
No pun intended...
But these ain't the "Sixties".
What causes Bill Clinton to be so brash when His and Hillary's political careers are questioned?
Maybe it's conviction grounded in a firm belief of democracy and the political process.
These ain't the "Sixties".
Bill, Hillary, John, Elizabeth and many others were sixties kids.
Kids that sat-in, marched, prayed and protested to ensure that there would be a future worth living here in the United States of America for all of us.
These ain't the "Sixties".
These are the "Zero" years.
So where are the "Zero" kids?
What are they doing?
What are they going to do?
What are they waiting for to do something?
What kind of future do they expect to have for themselves and their children?
The sixties kid did not buck the establishment they established it.
They got on board and turned the music up.
The twenties kids did not put them off but they knew they were there and
eventually the world began to dance to a different beat.
No it wasn't easy nor is it expected to be, but the "Sixties" kid got on board and made it happen.
So where are the "Zero" kids?
Why haven't they gotten on board?
Why can't we hear their music?
Who will stand for them in the future?
What type of future do they expect to have?
When I was in the military we use to say, "No plan is a plan for failure."
The "Zero" kids must chose their future.
Whether a future planned for success or failure.
Either way, if they don't get on board one is guaranteed.
When will the "Zero" kids realize this?
Or will they continue to live up to the designator of their generation?
These ain't the "Sixties", but these is the "Zero" years.
If the "Sixties" kids got on board to helped the "Twenties" kids change a nation, needless to say the world for the better, then when will the "Zero" Kids do the same?
Or will they?
The "Sixties" kids are waiting!
These ain't the "Sixties"!!!
"These are the "Zero" years!!!"
These are the "Zero" years!
No pun intended...
But these ain't the "Sixties".
What causes Bill Clinton to be so brash when His and Hillary's political careers are questioned?
Maybe it's conviction grounded in a firm belief of democracy and the political process.
These ain't the "Sixties".
Bill, Hillary, John, Elizabeth and many others were sixties kids.
Kids that sat-in, marched, prayed and protested to ensure that there would be a future worth living here in the United States of America for all of us.
These ain't the "Sixties".
These are the "Zero" years.
So where are the "Zero" kids?
What are they doing?
What are they going to do?
What are they waiting for to do something?
What kind of future do they expect to have for themselves and their children?
The sixties kid did not buck the establishment they established it.
They got on board and turned the music up.
The twenties kids did not put them off but they knew they were there and
eventually the world began to dance to a different beat.
No it wasn't easy nor is it expected to be, but the "Sixties" kid got on board and made it happen.
So where are the "Zero" kids?
Why haven't they gotten on board?
Why can't we hear their music?
Who will stand for them in the future?
What type of future do they expect to have?
When I was in the military we use to say, "No plan is a plan for failure."
The "Zero" kids must chose their future.
Whether a future planned for success or failure.
Either way, if they don't get on board one is guaranteed.
When will the "Zero" kids realize this?
Or will they continue to live up to the designator of their generation?
These ain't the "Sixties", but these is the "Zero" years.
If the "Sixties" kids got on board to helped the "Twenties" kids change a nation, needless to say the world for the better, then when will the "Zero" Kids do the same?
Or will they?
The "Sixties" kids are waiting!
These ain't the "Sixties"!!!
"These are the "Zero" years!!!"
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
"What Does "Humpty Dumpty" Have To Do With It?"
HUMPTY DUMPTY THE WHOLE STORY!
HUMPTY DUMPTY WAS JUST LIKE YOU AND ME,
FULL OF ENERGY AND CREATIVITY!
HE TALK TO HIS FAMILY,
FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND ALL,
AND SAID,
"IF YOU WILL HELP ME,
I’LL CLIMB UP ON THAT WALL.
FROM UP THERE FOR MILES I’LL BE ABLE TO SEE,
AND WHEN KINGS PASS BY THEY WILL MARVEL AT ME!
THEY WILL GIVE ME SILVER, GOLD, DIAMONDS, AND PEARLS;
AND WE WILL BE THE RICHEST EGG KINGDOM,
IN ALL THE WORLD."
SO THEY HELPED HUMPTY AND ALL HE SAID CAME TRUE,
AS KINGS PASSED BY THEY GAVE HIM HIS JUST DUE.
THEY GAVE HIM DIAMONDS, PEARLS, SILVER AND GOLD,
AND THRU-OUT ALL THE WORLD HUMPTY’S FAME WAS TOLD.
BUT HUMPTY HAD FORGOTTEN ALL HE HAD SAID,
HIS FAME AND FORTUNE WENT STRAIGHT TO HIS HEAD,
INSTEAD OF GIVING BACK TO THOSE THAT HELPPED HIM SUCCEED,
HE JUST SAT ON THE WALL FULL OF PRIDE AND GREED.
HE ADONED HIMSELF WITH THE SILVER AND THE GOLD,
HE HAD RINGS ON HIS FINGERS AND PEARLS ON HIS TOES,
HE LOOKED DOWN ON HIS FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND ALL,
EVEN THO WITHOUT THEM HE WOULD NOT BE ON THE WALL.
THEN ONE BY ONE THEY BEGAN TO LET GO,
AS HUMPTY BEGAN TO SWAY LIKE NEVER BEFORE,
FOR WITHOUT ANYONE THERE TO KEEP HIM BALANCED ON THE WALL,
HUMPTY DUMPTY BEGAN TO FALL, FALL, FALL.
THEN OFF CAME THE DIAMONDS, THE SILVER, THE GOLD AND THE PEARLS,
NO MORE FAME AND FORTUNE, NO MORE TOP OF THE WORLD ,
DOWN, DOWN, DOWN;
PASS ALL OF HIS USE TO BE FRIENDS,
HUMPTY DUMPTY WAS NEARING THE BEGINNING OF THE END.
THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THERE WAS A BIG LOUD SOUND,
AS HUMPTY DUMPTY HIT THE GROUND.
CRACKED, HURT, BARELY ALIVE,
BUT MOSTLY HURT WAS HUMPTY’S PRIDE.
FOR HE MOANED AND GROANED,
"SOMEBODY PLEASE HELP ME!"
BUT FOR HUMPTY DUMPTY, THERE WAS NO MORE SIMPATHY.
AS THE KINGS PASSED BY THEY SAW HUMPTY LAYING ON HIS BACK ,
WITH HIS LIFE RIUNNING OUT OF THE BIG HUGE CRACK,
HE PROMISED TO HAVE HIS HORSES AND MEN RETURN,
TO TRY TO PUT HUMPTY BACK TOGETHER AGAIN.
BUT NOONE CAME BACK TO GIVE HUMPTY A HAND,
FOR HUMPTY DUMPTY WAS JUST ANOTHER HAS BEEN.
SO THE MORAL OF THIS STORY IS VERY SIMPLE YOU SEE,
IT’S BEEN THAT WAY FOR CENTURIES!
NOONE ACCOMPLISHES ANYTHING BY ONES-SELF,
IT ALWAYS TAKES THE HELP OF SOMEONE ELSE.
SO DON’T BE LIKE HUMPTY DUMPTY,
WHEN YOU REACH THE TOP OF YOUR WALL...
FOR REMEMBER,
THE FURTHER YOU GO UP,
THE FURTHER YOU MUST FALL!
"What does "Humpty Dumpty" have to do with it?"
HUMPTY DUMPTY WAS JUST LIKE YOU AND ME,
FULL OF ENERGY AND CREATIVITY!
HE TALK TO HIS FAMILY,
FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND ALL,
AND SAID,
"IF YOU WILL HELP ME,
I’LL CLIMB UP ON THAT WALL.
FROM UP THERE FOR MILES I’LL BE ABLE TO SEE,
AND WHEN KINGS PASS BY THEY WILL MARVEL AT ME!
THEY WILL GIVE ME SILVER, GOLD, DIAMONDS, AND PEARLS;
AND WE WILL BE THE RICHEST EGG KINGDOM,
IN ALL THE WORLD."
SO THEY HELPED HUMPTY AND ALL HE SAID CAME TRUE,
AS KINGS PASSED BY THEY GAVE HIM HIS JUST DUE.
THEY GAVE HIM DIAMONDS, PEARLS, SILVER AND GOLD,
AND THRU-OUT ALL THE WORLD HUMPTY’S FAME WAS TOLD.
BUT HUMPTY HAD FORGOTTEN ALL HE HAD SAID,
HIS FAME AND FORTUNE WENT STRAIGHT TO HIS HEAD,
INSTEAD OF GIVING BACK TO THOSE THAT HELPPED HIM SUCCEED,
HE JUST SAT ON THE WALL FULL OF PRIDE AND GREED.
HE ADONED HIMSELF WITH THE SILVER AND THE GOLD,
HE HAD RINGS ON HIS FINGERS AND PEARLS ON HIS TOES,
HE LOOKED DOWN ON HIS FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND ALL,
EVEN THO WITHOUT THEM HE WOULD NOT BE ON THE WALL.
THEN ONE BY ONE THEY BEGAN TO LET GO,
AS HUMPTY BEGAN TO SWAY LIKE NEVER BEFORE,
FOR WITHOUT ANYONE THERE TO KEEP HIM BALANCED ON THE WALL,
HUMPTY DUMPTY BEGAN TO FALL, FALL, FALL.
THEN OFF CAME THE DIAMONDS, THE SILVER, THE GOLD AND THE PEARLS,
NO MORE FAME AND FORTUNE, NO MORE TOP OF THE WORLD ,
DOWN, DOWN, DOWN;
PASS ALL OF HIS USE TO BE FRIENDS,
HUMPTY DUMPTY WAS NEARING THE BEGINNING OF THE END.
THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THERE WAS A BIG LOUD SOUND,
AS HUMPTY DUMPTY HIT THE GROUND.
CRACKED, HURT, BARELY ALIVE,
BUT MOSTLY HURT WAS HUMPTY’S PRIDE.
FOR HE MOANED AND GROANED,
"SOMEBODY PLEASE HELP ME!"
BUT FOR HUMPTY DUMPTY, THERE WAS NO MORE SIMPATHY.
AS THE KINGS PASSED BY THEY SAW HUMPTY LAYING ON HIS BACK ,
WITH HIS LIFE RIUNNING OUT OF THE BIG HUGE CRACK,
HE PROMISED TO HAVE HIS HORSES AND MEN RETURN,
TO TRY TO PUT HUMPTY BACK TOGETHER AGAIN.
BUT NOONE CAME BACK TO GIVE HUMPTY A HAND,
FOR HUMPTY DUMPTY WAS JUST ANOTHER HAS BEEN.
SO THE MORAL OF THIS STORY IS VERY SIMPLE YOU SEE,
IT’S BEEN THAT WAY FOR CENTURIES!
NOONE ACCOMPLISHES ANYTHING BY ONES-SELF,
IT ALWAYS TAKES THE HELP OF SOMEONE ELSE.
SO DON’T BE LIKE HUMPTY DUMPTY,
WHEN YOU REACH THE TOP OF YOUR WALL...
FOR REMEMBER,
THE FURTHER YOU GO UP,
THE FURTHER YOU MUST FALL!
"What does "Humpty Dumpty" have to do with it?"
Sunday, January 13, 2008
"What would Martin Say?"
As I listened to the morning talk shows with both the front running Democratic candidates invoking the name of Dr. King, I began to wonder "what would Martin say" about all this.
Well as a culturally conscious historian and one who feels spiritually connected to the cultural identity of our time, I am encouraged at this vibe.
What do I mean by this "vibe?"
This "vibe" is the rhythm of things that vibrate throughout our cultural community.
Throughout our tribe.
It flow throughout the Diaspora.
It has flowed since the beginning of time.
A different frequency, a different pitch at different times but the same vibe.
It's the same vibe that Martin talked about when he said, "I am a Drum major for peace."
The same rhythm that vibrated from his lips from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in his "I have a Dream" speech.
And the same vibe his legacy vibrates today.
Now these two candidates are striking different notes but the same vibe.
I believe this is what Dr. King was talking about.
When we as a people can compete on an even playing fields for the same position. So here we have a white woman and a black man strumming the same cultural strings of change.
Change that transcends race, gender, age, and economics.
So we have arrived at the moment of truth.
A testing of the very principles that Martin spoke about. Do these principles withstand the test of time or are they lost in the greed of mankind.
Will time tell the stories of a time of triumph with these sacred principles intact.
Or will time speak of a time when these very principles we have upheld for a generation be no more.
Hummm???
"What would Martin say?"
Well as a culturally conscious historian and one who feels spiritually connected to the cultural identity of our time, I am encouraged at this vibe.
What do I mean by this "vibe?"
This "vibe" is the rhythm of things that vibrate throughout our cultural community.
Throughout our tribe.
It flow throughout the Diaspora.
It has flowed since the beginning of time.
A different frequency, a different pitch at different times but the same vibe.
It's the same vibe that Martin talked about when he said, "I am a Drum major for peace."
The same rhythm that vibrated from his lips from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in his "I have a Dream" speech.
And the same vibe his legacy vibrates today.
Now these two candidates are striking different notes but the same vibe.
I believe this is what Dr. King was talking about.
When we as a people can compete on an even playing fields for the same position. So here we have a white woman and a black man strumming the same cultural strings of change.
Change that transcends race, gender, age, and economics.
So we have arrived at the moment of truth.
A testing of the very principles that Martin spoke about. Do these principles withstand the test of time or are they lost in the greed of mankind.
Will time tell the stories of a time of triumph with these sacred principles intact.
Or will time speak of a time when these very principles we have upheld for a generation be no more.
Hummm???
"What would Martin say?"
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
"Nothing happens in a Vacuum!"
The baseball scandal report by Senator Mitchell on the abuse/use of steroids was one of the most detailed reports I have ever heard. I was struck by a particular line Sen. Mitchell used to describe how this problem could have persisted unchecked for so long. He said,
"Nothing happens in a vacuum."
This statement gives credence to every situation that happens in our lives.
Nothing happens in and of itself.
It's always a sequential process of events that bring things to its present situation.
Regardless of what we are referring too.
So what am I getting at?
I recently heard someone say that African Americans don't owe the Clinton's anything. They were referring to the question of whether or not blacks should vote for Hillary instead of Obama. I say, "nothing happens in a vacuum!"
The African American has struggled for decades for equal rights and equality.
Anyone who has any sense of history realize that we did not struggle alone. We had friends all along the way.
It is amazing to me how we can forget those who reached across the racial divide to give us representation.
I feel that there is a certain amount of giving back that must be incorporated in our struggle to "overcome!" And we must remember that as those early civil rights leaders/marchers sang that song (we shall overcome) they incorporated the verse,
"Black and white together!"
I heard this summed up very well by the third Democratic candidate's wife, Elizabeth Edwards! She said on hardball that this campaign should not be about race or gender. "We" (referring to herself, other whites, women, and blacks) all marched in the sixties for equal rights and equality for all peoples.
"Nothing happens in a Vacuum!"
I believe she correctly makes the point that we cannot be guilty of doing the same thing we have been fighting against for all these years. Hillary and Obama, a woman and a black respectfully, would not have had the opportunity to even participate in the Presidential race if it had not been for civil rights fighters of the past. So it is hypocritical for Democrats to vote for these candidates based strictly on their race or gender.
As I said,
"Nothing happens in a vacuum!"
There is a sequence of events that take place which bring anything to it's present situation. I believe if we use this principle to evaluate these candidates, we will be in step with the mantra of our civil rights foundering fathers, not by race or gender "but by the content of their character."
So as we are continually astonished by Obama's eloquent speaking ability and the adding up of Hillary's abundance of experience, let us not fall prey to this present snap-shot.
Because when Obama talks about change, that change did not happen in a vacuum. And when Hillary talks about experience, that experience did not happen in a vacuum. Not only do we as voters must remember this but also these candidates must do the same.
I believe we all should take a note from a line in Sen. Mitchell's report,
"Nothing happens in the Vacuum!"
"Nothing happens in a vacuum."
This statement gives credence to every situation that happens in our lives.
Nothing happens in and of itself.
It's always a sequential process of events that bring things to its present situation.
Regardless of what we are referring too.
So what am I getting at?
I recently heard someone say that African Americans don't owe the Clinton's anything. They were referring to the question of whether or not blacks should vote for Hillary instead of Obama. I say, "nothing happens in a vacuum!"
The African American has struggled for decades for equal rights and equality.
Anyone who has any sense of history realize that we did not struggle alone. We had friends all along the way.
It is amazing to me how we can forget those who reached across the racial divide to give us representation.
I feel that there is a certain amount of giving back that must be incorporated in our struggle to "overcome!" And we must remember that as those early civil rights leaders/marchers sang that song (we shall overcome) they incorporated the verse,
"Black and white together!"
I heard this summed up very well by the third Democratic candidate's wife, Elizabeth Edwards! She said on hardball that this campaign should not be about race or gender. "We" (referring to herself, other whites, women, and blacks) all marched in the sixties for equal rights and equality for all peoples.
"Nothing happens in a Vacuum!"
I believe she correctly makes the point that we cannot be guilty of doing the same thing we have been fighting against for all these years. Hillary and Obama, a woman and a black respectfully, would not have had the opportunity to even participate in the Presidential race if it had not been for civil rights fighters of the past. So it is hypocritical for Democrats to vote for these candidates based strictly on their race or gender.
As I said,
"Nothing happens in a vacuum!"
There is a sequence of events that take place which bring anything to it's present situation. I believe if we use this principle to evaluate these candidates, we will be in step with the mantra of our civil rights foundering fathers, not by race or gender "but by the content of their character."
So as we are continually astonished by Obama's eloquent speaking ability and the adding up of Hillary's abundance of experience, let us not fall prey to this present snap-shot.
Because when Obama talks about change, that change did not happen in a vacuum. And when Hillary talks about experience, that experience did not happen in a vacuum. Not only do we as voters must remember this but also these candidates must do the same.
I believe we all should take a note from a line in Sen. Mitchell's report,
"Nothing happens in the Vacuum!"
Monday, January 7, 2008
"Experience Matters!!!"
You know how they say in real estate,
"Location! Location! Location!"
Well, I feel the same way about experience,
"Experience! Experience! Experience!"
As I have said before, I believe that experience is the best teacher.
As I listened to Obama defend himself for being the candidate with the least experience in the race, I was reminded of several situations where the lack or abundance of experience made the difference.
As you know, I am prior military and police. I have been in some really crazy situations where experience or the lack there of made the difference in the outcome.
Please allow me to give you a few examples.
Example 1:
Many years ago I took a flight across country. It was a clear beautiful day. The pilot was a young guy who met all the passengers at the door with a smile. We had a smooth take off and a comfortable flight. I believe the roughest part of any flight has to be the landing. So as we began to come in for a landing I was surprised at the roughness of this landing on such a beautiful day. The plane at first seem to be in a steep fast down turn. A lot of the passengers began to look concerned. Then it seemed that the plane was traveling slightly sideways. At this time I became very concerned myself. When we did finally touch down, we bounced off the runway several times before coming to a very hard stop. After we finally stopped an older voice came over the loud speaker and said, "We apologize for the shaky landing, this is his first time landing with passengers on board." I guess we were unknowing "guinea pigs" for this young pilot to get some experience.
I am sure that the young pilot needed to get experience landing with real passengers on board but I just did not feel comfortable with him learning at my expence.
"Experience Matters!!!"
Example 2:
I was an officer in the field Artillery. We fired the big howitzers. On a training mission in Fort Bragg NC one hot summer day we had a planned visit by the Brigade Commander. So at the planned time we cancelled all firing to allow his chopper to land directly in front of our gun line. As fate would have it as the chopper was approaching some smart young soldier decided to do what was called a "check fire" command to ensure that no one fired a round while the chopper was landing. Now remember we fired the big guns that could take out a city block with one round. Because of the lack of experience this young soldier did not think about the delay between the click of the the mic and him speaking the command. Therefore, instead of his command being "Check-Fire (meaning don't fire), the only part that was transmitted was "Fire!" (and we know what that means!!!) All the gun commanders on the line realized his mistake except one. Almost immediately after we heard the command over the radio we heard,
"Boom!!!"
Yes ladies and gentlemen, a live round went out of the tube directly toward the chopper bringing in the Brigade Commander. We were horrified as we looked to see what was going to happen. At approximately the same time the round went out of the tube the chopper pilot turned directly into the direction of the round coming at him. The round missed (but not by much).
When the chopper finally landed, needless to say several people had very high "pucker values!!!" The Brigade Commander seemed unaffected by the events that had just transpired and carried on with his review. As the commander gave his parting speech, he made the comment that it was a good thing he had an experienced chopper pilot with several years of combat flight time. When we saw the round coming at us he turned into it to make us a smaller target. The pilot's experience saved their lives. Needless to say the "Check-Fire" command was changed Army wide to "Check-Firing" to prevent this from happening again.
"Experience Matters!!!"
Last Example 3:
Again as a young officer, who was commissioned through OCS, I had a lot of prior experience in artillery. One of my jobs was as a safety officer. You can imagine when you can make an unsafe act and kill several people (which I have seen done), safety is very important. One night at approx. 0200 hours (2 am for you civilians) on Fort Bragg during a training mission, I walked into my Brigade HHC. As I passed by a safety chart, that a young soldier was setting up, I realized he had set it up backwards. His south was north and vise verse. A common mistake when you are tired. I stopped and pointed out his mistake. To my surprise this young soldier disputed my correction and proceeded to compute data using this chart. I reminded him that I was the safety officer and he was to immediately cease and stand down. The young soldier was obviously tired and fed up. He began to tell me that he had checked this chart several times and it was correct. Now this young soldier had really upset me and in my hast to shut down the mission until this matter was resolved (lives were at stake) I used the wrong radio transmitter. Instead of only communication with my Brigade Units I had transmitted over Range Control's Frequency. Needless to say, all hell broke loose. Yes, I had done the right thing just in a grand fashion. It seemed that every star, bird, clover, and bar on Fort Bragg heard my transmission all at once. Choppers were in the air. Commanders were awakened. Flares were being fired off and I am not exaggerating. So here I am standing there nose to nose with a young soldier when the Battalion Commander walked in and demands to know what idiot dropped the range. I said, "That idiot was me sir, because this hardheaded idiot (referring to the young soldier) is about to get a lot of people killed." By this time the Brigade Commander walks in half asleep. "What in hell is going on?" was the first thing out of his mouth. I explained what was happening. He looked at me and said, "Lt, you had better be right." I said, "sir I will bet my career of several years of experience on it." He said, "that's good because if you are wrong your career is over." I probably would have been sweating if I had not made the same mistake myself many times over the years (experience matters.) About that time a drowsy chief computer came rushing in. Before asking what was the matter, he glanced at the chart and said, "that's wrong!" This computer like myself had several years of experience setting up safety charts therefore it is easy to see this mistake.
As you can see in all these situations, peoples lives were at stake.
If it had not been for the experienced people involve there outcomes could have been tragic.
I know that a fresh change is important but change without experience is a recipe for failure.
"Experience matters!!!"
"Location! Location! Location!"
Well, I feel the same way about experience,
"Experience! Experience! Experience!"
As I have said before, I believe that experience is the best teacher.
As I listened to Obama defend himself for being the candidate with the least experience in the race, I was reminded of several situations where the lack or abundance of experience made the difference.
As you know, I am prior military and police. I have been in some really crazy situations where experience or the lack there of made the difference in the outcome.
Please allow me to give you a few examples.
Example 1:
Many years ago I took a flight across country. It was a clear beautiful day. The pilot was a young guy who met all the passengers at the door with a smile. We had a smooth take off and a comfortable flight. I believe the roughest part of any flight has to be the landing. So as we began to come in for a landing I was surprised at the roughness of this landing on such a beautiful day. The plane at first seem to be in a steep fast down turn. A lot of the passengers began to look concerned. Then it seemed that the plane was traveling slightly sideways. At this time I became very concerned myself. When we did finally touch down, we bounced off the runway several times before coming to a very hard stop. After we finally stopped an older voice came over the loud speaker and said, "We apologize for the shaky landing, this is his first time landing with passengers on board." I guess we were unknowing "guinea pigs" for this young pilot to get some experience.
I am sure that the young pilot needed to get experience landing with real passengers on board but I just did not feel comfortable with him learning at my expence.
"Experience Matters!!!"
Example 2:
I was an officer in the field Artillery. We fired the big howitzers. On a training mission in Fort Bragg NC one hot summer day we had a planned visit by the Brigade Commander. So at the planned time we cancelled all firing to allow his chopper to land directly in front of our gun line. As fate would have it as the chopper was approaching some smart young soldier decided to do what was called a "check fire" command to ensure that no one fired a round while the chopper was landing. Now remember we fired the big guns that could take out a city block with one round. Because of the lack of experience this young soldier did not think about the delay between the click of the the mic and him speaking the command. Therefore, instead of his command being "Check-Fire (meaning don't fire), the only part that was transmitted was "Fire!" (and we know what that means!!!) All the gun commanders on the line realized his mistake except one. Almost immediately after we heard the command over the radio we heard,
"Boom!!!"
Yes ladies and gentlemen, a live round went out of the tube directly toward the chopper bringing in the Brigade Commander. We were horrified as we looked to see what was going to happen. At approximately the same time the round went out of the tube the chopper pilot turned directly into the direction of the round coming at him. The round missed (but not by much).
When the chopper finally landed, needless to say several people had very high "pucker values!!!" The Brigade Commander seemed unaffected by the events that had just transpired and carried on with his review. As the commander gave his parting speech, he made the comment that it was a good thing he had an experienced chopper pilot with several years of combat flight time. When we saw the round coming at us he turned into it to make us a smaller target. The pilot's experience saved their lives. Needless to say the "Check-Fire" command was changed Army wide to "Check-Firing" to prevent this from happening again.
"Experience Matters!!!"
Last Example 3:
Again as a young officer, who was commissioned through OCS, I had a lot of prior experience in artillery. One of my jobs was as a safety officer. You can imagine when you can make an unsafe act and kill several people (which I have seen done), safety is very important. One night at approx. 0200 hours (2 am for you civilians) on Fort Bragg during a training mission, I walked into my Brigade HHC. As I passed by a safety chart, that a young soldier was setting up, I realized he had set it up backwards. His south was north and vise verse. A common mistake when you are tired. I stopped and pointed out his mistake. To my surprise this young soldier disputed my correction and proceeded to compute data using this chart. I reminded him that I was the safety officer and he was to immediately cease and stand down. The young soldier was obviously tired and fed up. He began to tell me that he had checked this chart several times and it was correct. Now this young soldier had really upset me and in my hast to shut down the mission until this matter was resolved (lives were at stake) I used the wrong radio transmitter. Instead of only communication with my Brigade Units I had transmitted over Range Control's Frequency. Needless to say, all hell broke loose. Yes, I had done the right thing just in a grand fashion. It seemed that every star, bird, clover, and bar on Fort Bragg heard my transmission all at once. Choppers were in the air. Commanders were awakened. Flares were being fired off and I am not exaggerating. So here I am standing there nose to nose with a young soldier when the Battalion Commander walked in and demands to know what idiot dropped the range. I said, "That idiot was me sir, because this hardheaded idiot (referring to the young soldier) is about to get a lot of people killed." By this time the Brigade Commander walks in half asleep. "What in hell is going on?" was the first thing out of his mouth. I explained what was happening. He looked at me and said, "Lt, you had better be right." I said, "sir I will bet my career of several years of experience on it." He said, "that's good because if you are wrong your career is over." I probably would have been sweating if I had not made the same mistake myself many times over the years (experience matters.) About that time a drowsy chief computer came rushing in. Before asking what was the matter, he glanced at the chart and said, "that's wrong!" This computer like myself had several years of experience setting up safety charts therefore it is easy to see this mistake.
As you can see in all these situations, peoples lives were at stake.
If it had not been for the experienced people involve there outcomes could have been tragic.
I know that a fresh change is important but change without experience is a recipe for failure.
"Experience matters!!!"
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
"Does Obama deserve a Pass?"
Does Obama deserve a pass from black folks for being black?
I am sure those of us that live in the black community is well aware of what is referred to as "The white man's pass." If you have not figured it out yet, this is when a white man is given a pass just because he is white.
As I think back on the fathers of the Civil Rights movement and the foundation that was laid for us as a people, this question of a pass is haunting.
I heard Obama say recently that, "as a black guy running for president, you've got to have hope." Of course, my mind went back to the famous quote by Jesse Jackson used during his presidential campaign,
" Keep Hope Alive!"
So Obama using the word also made me think of how far we have come from then until now as a nation and a people.
A lot of questions come to mind that forces me to say, "what the hell, Obama is black like me, why not just give him a pass." But then was Jesse given a pass just because he was black or did he have to, do as we say in the black community,
"Bring it!" (And Jesse Brought it.)
OK, for that matter, does Hillary deserve a pass for being a woman?
Lord knows if she gets that pass, all the men in the race can go home now.
But back to Obama's pass.
I am old enough to remember the Klan coming to the house; JFK's, Malcolm, Martin, and Bobby's assassinations; and white and coloured restrooms.
So needless to say, the idea of having a black President fills me with a strong sense of pride and fulfillment. Pride because it speaks volumes about how far we have come as a people and a nation. Fulfillment because of all the sacrifices that has been made for this possibility to even exist.
BUT!!!
There is still this "Big But" in the room.
Why am I considering Obama for President?
Am I giving Obama a pass?
When I think about the other candidates in the race it seems obvious to me that the most qualified of all the candidates on both sides of the isle is Hillary. When one puts the pass forty years of all the candidates life in the political process side-by-side, Hillary's is the most impressive of them all. Not only is she most educated, but from the beginning she has been in the national political spotlight. I believe experience is the most significant teacher a person can have. I believe that there are several hot spots in the political arena. The experience of getting burned over the years teaches one how not to get burned over and over again. I also believe being in the political environment for four decades conditions one to be able to effective deal with the rapid and sometime turbulent changes in that atmosphere.
But all that said, "does Obama deserve a pass?"
From the picture I previously painted, if it's based on experience, the answer would be a resounding "Yes!" That would be the only way he could get elected.
I have heard Obama talk allot about the fact of him becoming President would bring the necessary change America needs to the white house. I do agree that a black man as president is change but so would the first woman as president.
Then if it is about change, Hillary being the first woman does the same thing on a larger scale than Obama being black and she comes with the experience.
So does Obama deserve a pass?
If it's about change then again the answer would be a resounding "Yes!" Need I say more about that?
"No!!!"
So now back to the founding fathers of the Civil Rights movement.
I believe there was one consistent thread among them all when the question of a pass would come up. I believe they lived by the words of Dr. King, "Where one is not judged by the color of their skin but the content of their character."
This is the underlining mantra that has been the battle cry of Civil Rights leaders for decades.
So does Obama deserve a pass???
The answer is a resounding, "No!"
I believe we as a people have to evaluate Sen Obama and all the other candidates not based on the color of their skin but the total "Content of their character."
You know I like to keep it interesting.
There is another famous line from another great movie "Dreamgirls!"
You probably did not hear it but you know me, "Culturally Conscious!"
Needless to say, this line had my ears burning for a minute...
This is the scene when Eddie and the girls do their first show in Vegas. The MC (White Guy) says something to the effect of, "Welcome this new black group with their new hit song xxxx! Lets give them a chance because if we don't like them, they can always clean up after the show..."
Wow!!!
I ain't going to say anything...
We will leave it right there...
Happy New Year everybody!!!
I am sure those of us that live in the black community is well aware of what is referred to as "The white man's pass." If you have not figured it out yet, this is when a white man is given a pass just because he is white.
As I think back on the fathers of the Civil Rights movement and the foundation that was laid for us as a people, this question of a pass is haunting.
I heard Obama say recently that, "as a black guy running for president, you've got to have hope." Of course, my mind went back to the famous quote by Jesse Jackson used during his presidential campaign,
" Keep Hope Alive!"
So Obama using the word also made me think of how far we have come from then until now as a nation and a people.
A lot of questions come to mind that forces me to say, "what the hell, Obama is black like me, why not just give him a pass." But then was Jesse given a pass just because he was black or did he have to, do as we say in the black community,
"Bring it!" (And Jesse Brought it.)
OK, for that matter, does Hillary deserve a pass for being a woman?
Lord knows if she gets that pass, all the men in the race can go home now.
But back to Obama's pass.
I am old enough to remember the Klan coming to the house; JFK's, Malcolm, Martin, and Bobby's assassinations; and white and coloured restrooms.
So needless to say, the idea of having a black President fills me with a strong sense of pride and fulfillment. Pride because it speaks volumes about how far we have come as a people and a nation. Fulfillment because of all the sacrifices that has been made for this possibility to even exist.
BUT!!!
There is still this "Big But" in the room.
Why am I considering Obama for President?
Am I giving Obama a pass?
When I think about the other candidates in the race it seems obvious to me that the most qualified of all the candidates on both sides of the isle is Hillary. When one puts the pass forty years of all the candidates life in the political process side-by-side, Hillary's is the most impressive of them all. Not only is she most educated, but from the beginning she has been in the national political spotlight. I believe experience is the most significant teacher a person can have. I believe that there are several hot spots in the political arena. The experience of getting burned over the years teaches one how not to get burned over and over again. I also believe being in the political environment for four decades conditions one to be able to effective deal with the rapid and sometime turbulent changes in that atmosphere.
But all that said, "does Obama deserve a pass?"
From the picture I previously painted, if it's based on experience, the answer would be a resounding "Yes!" That would be the only way he could get elected.
I have heard Obama talk allot about the fact of him becoming President would bring the necessary change America needs to the white house. I do agree that a black man as president is change but so would the first woman as president.
Then if it is about change, Hillary being the first woman does the same thing on a larger scale than Obama being black and she comes with the experience.
So does Obama deserve a pass?
If it's about change then again the answer would be a resounding "Yes!" Need I say more about that?
"No!!!"
So now back to the founding fathers of the Civil Rights movement.
I believe there was one consistent thread among them all when the question of a pass would come up. I believe they lived by the words of Dr. King, "Where one is not judged by the color of their skin but the content of their character."
This is the underlining mantra that has been the battle cry of Civil Rights leaders for decades.
So does Obama deserve a pass???
The answer is a resounding, "No!"
I believe we as a people have to evaluate Sen Obama and all the other candidates not based on the color of their skin but the total "Content of their character."
You know I like to keep it interesting.
There is another famous line from another great movie "Dreamgirls!"
You probably did not hear it but you know me, "Culturally Conscious!"
Needless to say, this line had my ears burning for a minute...
This is the scene when Eddie and the girls do their first show in Vegas. The MC (White Guy) says something to the effect of, "Welcome this new black group with their new hit song xxxx! Lets give them a chance because if we don't like them, they can always clean up after the show..."
Wow!!!
I ain't going to say anything...
We will leave it right there...
Happy New Year everybody!!!
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