Community & World Issues

So many dreams and goals are pushed aside due to thinking we have to be at a certain place in our lives before the work begins. You may find yourself wishing you could do this or that when most likely you can! Thank goodness you weren’t born with this mentality. Somewhere along the way you definitely learned it. Remember how excited you were when the idea of following your dream first entered your head? Before your mouth opened to share excitement, a thought proceeded by a vision was planted in your mind. That vision was nurtured in your heart until it was time to call it to action. You were certain the excitement would be equally met by friends and loved ones but instead the feedback received expressed apprehension, doubt, uncertainty, bewilderment, and in some cases; downright anger!

Nothing kills a dream faster than other people. You absorb that depressing energy coming at you and accept it as your own. In a matter of days you go from being on top of the world to questioning why you dared to dream in the first place. Look around because you’re not alone. Many of us check our dreams into this holding area and never return for them. Remaining in a place of Stability and Familiarity is less risky than traveling to foreign territory. However, having faith in Your works turns risk into Investment.

Our Creator gave you a talent special only to you so that you may learn it, nurture it, master it and use it to contribute to mankind. He made His Investment in you before you were even conceived! Your gift isn’t any good to anyone if it remains in its wrapping paper sitting somewhere in the back of the closet.

I have something for you…yes you! In my hands I have your box that has been wrapped for many years. The one you have been promising to open when the time is right. Your dreams and all that you imagine are right here. Will you open it?

With the ever changing chaos amidst what remains consistent is we can always count on a good old political sex scandal to spice things up. Many of our most notable Leaders have succumbed to public scrutiny and exposure. At this point there should be a patent on the formula for “post” affair damage control:
1. Admit to it
2. Hold a press conference and express an almost tearful apology
3. Talk about how much you let down your family and constituents
4. Have your wife standing at your side as a sign of support and unity.

What’s ironic is that what starts out as betrayal to the Spouse becomes over shadowed by the presence of public betrayal. When the media circus exposes the deed, the public official spends more time apologizing to his constituents than mending his relationship. What’s even more hilarious is the “public outrage” and backlash from wives of America who feel entitled to an apology as well.

More recently South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford went public exposing his liaison with his Argentina Hot Mamma. Bizarrely his public apology turned into a twisted admittance/declaration of his undying love for the other woman BUT his intention is to save his marriage and make amends to the people of South Carolina (Whatever!). When these incidents occur I pose the same questions;
-Is the public owed an apology when Public officials are exposed?
-Does an extra – marital affair interfere with the Public official’s ability to do his job?

Unless public funds were used to carry out the relationship, I don’t feel I have to be personally apologized to. An apology in essence should be sincere but these types of apologies are nothing but steps in the “I need to keep my job” process. I understand our leaders are held to a higher standard but where do we draw the line on having to know everything?

That’s my word now I’m waiting to hear your position….I’m listening…..Holla at ya Gyrl !

I heard something interesting on National Public Radio (NPR). Early this year, President Obama visited Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington D.C. When asked by the cashier if he wanted his change, President Obama replied, “Nah, We Straight.” Based on President Obama’s use of the term, “Nah, we straight,” NPR comprised a segment on
Coded Language. It was said, “Obama uses coded language, mannerisms, and symbols that resonate with Blacks (people) but may be missed by Whites.”
To others the language may be coded but for Black people it is a unique dialect we share among one another. Historically we have always spoken in code; mainly to prevent being killed. However as time progressed, the manner in which we speak continued to evolve. We share a non-verbal communication as well. For example: I can look at a Black person whom I do not know and gesture or display a non verbal message and it will be pick-up without the faintest hint of confusion. I would love to say this “language” is something taught, but I’d be lying. I actually believe it’s in our DNA strand.

Did NPR discuss this because President Obama used a term unfamiliar to all Americans or to expose his use of a language favored mostly by black people? Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: Today’s White House will not always reflect the style, culture and language of the last 43 Presidents. Already President Obama has apprised America into taking a genuine interest and focus on our culture; our language.

Do you feel Blacks and White hear Obama differently? Speak to me….I’m listening…Holla at ya Gyrl !