In my years, I’ve encountered many a people shouting the end is near and no one, including myself, has given them more time than it takes the words to fade into the atmosphere. However if you place a news camera in front of these town criers and have a reporter ask a few questions…..well, now the story gains foundation and a semblance of truth.

I am one of the few who slept like a newborn baby on doomsday eve. Man has been given control over many things, but predicting death and the end of the world just isn’t one of them. Nevertheless, self-proclaimed “predictor” Harold Camping admits being “flabbergasted” the world didn’t end. At 89 years old, many may chalk it up as babble, but I don’t think he should skate so easily. Since Mr. Camping has referenced himself a Prophet, I think he should demonstrate his divine ability to…um…prophesize.

Other than proving the media can be as foolish as we all imagine, Mr. Camping learned another truth: God gives no one heads up on the day or the hour of the End: not even Mr. Camping.

Californian Republican Party official Marilyn Davenport has finally apologized after collapsing under the scrutiny and outrage of those she serves: The American people.

Marilyn Davenport thought it to be nothing more than a light-hearted joke when she circulated an email depicting President Barack Obama and his parents as chimpanzees with the caption: “Now you know why – no birth Certificate!” Davenport contends, “In no way did I even consider the fact he is half black when I sent out the email.” Well Ms. Davenport, maybe you should have. Furthermore her lack of willingness to sincerely admit her faux pas is reminiscent of the Civil Rights Era. Her initial response,”Oh, come on! Everybody who knows me knows that I am not a racist. It was a joke. I have friends who are black. Besides, I only sent it to a few people–mostly people I didn’t think would be upset by it” exhibits a woman more irritated by the fact her character is called to question rather than someone who made an honest mistake.

The 74 year-old Tea Party activist and member of the Orange County Republican Central Commission later issued a more watered down apology: “To my fellow Americans and to everyone else who has seen this e-mail I forwarded and was offended by my action, I humbly apologize and ask for your forgiveness of my unwise behavior, I say unwise because at the time I received and forwarded the e-mail, I didn’t stop to think about the historic implications and other examples of how this could be offensive, I would never do anything to intentionally harm or berate others regardless of ethnicity, everyone who knows me knows that to be true.” Many GOP members have condemned her actions and are calling for her resignation.

Because the revised apology dons a tone of sincerity does not mean all consequences should be removed. The bottom line is; at 74 years old this woman has lived long enough to know right from wrong, moral from immoral, racist from non-racist. What’s done in the dark will always come to light and Ms. Davenport the light has been shed upon you!

Those waiting on the sidelines for HOPE to get better will surely be left behind. I remember a simple time: when our only frustration was increased oil prices. That item of discussion seem to have left our tongue completely as we now worry about our homes, job security, education, and the ability of our government to lead this nation. Our Leaders have “cried wolf” many times, but today the wolf walks among the sheep so be ready! We can no longer be a People waiting for government hand-outs. Think about it; when Wall Street goes on Welfare (bail outs) where does that leave us?

Be encouraged to use your talents, hobbies and skills as a means to earn money. A grim economy doesn’t mean there isn’t money to be made. It’s a sign we’ve been complacent too long! Everyone is on shaky ground and those who aren’t afraid to capitalize on their talents and resources will feast. Those who are still waiting for Hope will meet famine. It’s that simple.

Now I’m asking the question: Will you Feast or Famine?….I’m listening. Holla at ya Gyrl !

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?

While catching up on my tweets I came across an interesting one encouraging others to sign a petition to ban Shirley Q. Liquor. I wondered about Shirley Q. Liquor because before this morning, I had never even heard the name. I did some research and learned Comedian Charles Knipp created this character much like Tyler Perry with Madea. However unlike Tyler Perry, Charles Knipp is a white male who performs this character in black face. With Shirley Q. Liquor, Mr Knipp amplifies every negative stereo-type known of the black woman. Listening to the monologues, it becomes clear why many would like this persona to swim with the fishes.

A few examples of the dialogue are;
    “On the fifth day of the Kwanzaa my check came in the mail; AFDC! Thank you. Lawd c’mon kids so we can go to the sto’ for some collard greens, ham hocks and cheese.”

     “I’m gonna burn me some chitlins and put some ketchup on there and ax Jesus to forgive my sins.”

Obviously this is offensive and insensitive to black people but doesn’t banning it altogether violate the right to freedom of speech? I feel just as he has a right to say what he wants, I have a right to not spend anymore time than it takes to write this topic thinking about it.

It stings horribly when our negative stereo-types are re-hashed over and over again. We may not be able to ban everything which offends us but we can definitely boycott them!

Will you ban Shirley Q. Liquor?..I’m listening…Holla at ya Gyrl!

Rarely do things offend me, because I understand people are entitled to their opinions. It is only because of that freedom that I’m able to write and post my views for the world to see. How-ev-er….I am so tired of groups; political or otherwise comparing their contention to the historical plight of blacks, Negros, coloreds, afro-Americans, African Americans, or whatever it is they call us today.

I understand today’s movement to bring forth basic American rights for the homosexual community which heterosexuals are entitled to; but to say this movement is comparative to the Civil Rights Movement is brazen. For those who feel this is the same fight, might I remind you that;
-Being black cannot be hidden. People of the Civil rights movement did not have a chance to “come out” or “go public”. Black people were born “out”.
-I don’t recall any alternative lifestyle people being hosed down at peaceful rallies by the local police department and fire department.
-I still have not come across any restaurants or hotels with signs that read “Straight People Only”.
-Haven’t heard any stories of Gay people being beaten to death for whistling at straight people and;
-There are no laws which segregate gay people from straight people

My father who is only 63 years old grew up in North Carolina, unable to swim at the community pool because by law, it was not designated for Colored people. He had to read a sign before he could sip water from a public fountain because if that fountain was not designated for Colored people he had remain thirsty until he found one. Can you imagine how many public water fountains he had to pass up in the sweltering North Carolina heat just to quench his thirst?
The Gay Rights movement may be many things but it’s definitely NOT “the new black”.

Talk to me; whether good, bad or indifferent I want to know what you think. Is being Gay the new Black?
I’m listening….Holla at ya Gyrl !

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 !

Eventually we realize we can only make amends for past mistakes and the end of the world is not really the end of the world but a means to push us beyond our comfort zones when we can no longer push ourselves. Regardless of our religious views the common thread is: When we face tragedy we all seek and need to believe there is a Higher Power than Man.

The greatest gift about this life is we always have TOMORROW. Tomorrow is our “big break”, our “do over”; another opportunity to do all we missed the day before. Tomorrow brings another opportunity to change a life, change a perspective, and change the direction of your path.

What a beautiful life this is. Do you Agree?

This is my personal reflection, now I would love to read yours. Dig into your soul then speak from the heart. Speak to me..now Holla at ya Gyrl !
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The Kidnapping charge was obtained because the victims were instructed to move from one side of a room to the opposite side. Once arrested, Frederick admitted to his involvement. His case should have been handled in Juvenile court but instead, Frederick was tried as an Adult and sentenced to Life in prison with the possibility of parole after 7 years. While most 16 year olds are planning their future and preparing for college, Frederick prepared for hard prison time in California’s violent Correctional Facilities.

When Frederick went up for his Board hearing in 2007 he received exemplary reports from his Psychiatrist, prison officials and the Deputy District Attorney. It was noted Fred completed his G.E.D within one month of being arrested. He has completed vocational courses in Landscaping, Real Estate, Roofing, and Home Inspection and is a Certified Personal Trainer. Several Self-Help courses were completed as well.

Prior to his Board Hearing, Fred was medically determined a “Low risk” in the community because he has No prior history of felonies or misdemeanors. There is NO history of drug or alcohol abuse and NO record of aggression or violence in prison. A Probation report rendered him suitable for release. The Parole Board deemed him “extremely intelligent and motivated.” The Deputy District Attorney called Frederick “Phenomenal” and commended him for only having one write up during his 10 years in prison. However it was the one write up coupled with Frederick’s “youth” that was the Deputy District Attorney’s reason for denying him Parole. The infraction was for Possession of Contraband; Cell phone and Charger. Again, the DA cited that Frederick’s, “Youth brings about the possible threat to others“. So now his age is the determining factor?! This makes absolutely no sense to me. Frederick maintains his humble presence but admits it can become a hard pill to swallow when he sees murderers, rapist, and child molesters being found suitable to return to the free world.

I personally read through all his Hearing records and became amazed that there were over 50 pages of Frederick being complimented and praised by the Board of Prison Terms on how he has used his prison time constructively and exceeded above and beyond their expectations. Let’s sit with this for a minute…….. The District Attorney speaks GREATLY of Frederick then recommends Denial of Parole because of his age and possessing a cell phone?!

Frederick’s most recent Parole Hearing took place this year January. He was once again denied. This reason? because his crime was “Heinous” and “Sophisticated”.

I’m asking all of you who has been touched by his case to please show your support by writing Frederick Hill or simply sending him a card encouraging him to stay fighting for his freedom.

Please Holla at ya Gyrl and let me know your thoughts good, bad or indifferent.

Frederick Hill #P09300 d11/241 low
Chuckawalla Valley State Prison
P.O. Box 2349
Blythe, CA 92226

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 !