Dear Ken,
I am going to try this video blogging out...
29 September 2010
09 September 2010
What is this dude thinking (Koran-burning)?
Dear Ken,
It has been a minute since I last updated. For the past month, life has kept me rather busy. I have had a couple of joys and a few minor setbacks. Nonetheless, being able to rise up and face another day keeps me #optimistic.
Only when I thought the world could not get crazier, I turned to CNN and read about the Rev. Terry Jones, the pastor of a small church in Gainesville, Florida, who is planning a Koran-burning ceremony on the 9th anniversity of the September 11th terrorist attack. The church, with fewer than 30 congregants, plans to burn 200+ copies of the Muslim holy book.
Rev Jones has ignored harsh criticism from Gen David Pataeus, Secretary of State Clinton and even the President. Secretary Clinton calls his act “disrespectful [and] disgraceful".
While Rev Jones' act of burning the Koran is probably protected by the First Amendment, has he forgotten the principles that Jesus taught of honoring, loving and respecting other people? I am reminded of the scripture that Jesus wrote: treat others as [we] would like to be treated.
Rev Jones can disagree with Muslims and their beliefs, but to set ablaze to these books only incites violence, places several troops in Afghanistan in harm’s way and will only encourage a recruiting drive for al-Qaeda. President Obama mentioned on Good Morning America that "this could increase the recruitment of individuals who'd be willing to blow themselves up in American cities or European cities".
Dude really needs to start practicing what he preaches!
It has been a minute since I last updated. For the past month, life has kept me rather busy. I have had a couple of joys and a few minor setbacks. Nonetheless, being able to rise up and face another day keeps me #optimistic.
Only when I thought the world could not get crazier, I turned to CNN and read about the Rev. Terry Jones, the pastor of a small church in Gainesville, Florida, who is planning a Koran-burning ceremony on the 9th anniversity of the September 11th terrorist attack. The church, with fewer than 30 congregants, plans to burn 200+ copies of the Muslim holy book.
Rev Jones has ignored harsh criticism from Gen David Pataeus, Secretary of State Clinton and even the President. Secretary Clinton calls his act “disrespectful [and] disgraceful".
While Rev Jones' act of burning the Koran is probably protected by the First Amendment, has he forgotten the principles that Jesus taught of honoring, loving and respecting other people? I am reminded of the scripture that Jesus wrote: treat others as [we] would like to be treated.
Rev Jones can disagree with Muslims and their beliefs, but to set ablaze to these books only incites violence, places several troops in Afghanistan in harm’s way and will only encourage a recruiting drive for al-Qaeda. President Obama mentioned on Good Morning America that "this could increase the recruitment of individuals who'd be willing to blow themselves up in American cities or European cities".
Dude really needs to start practicing what he preaches!
06 August 2010
Vacaying
Dear Ken,
It's been a minute since we last spoke, so I wanted to drop in for roughly 2.3 seconds to give a mini update! Right now, I'm in Miami acting a fool with some of the best people in the world. We're headed out ... talk with you later.
Me
It's been a minute since we last spoke, so I wanted to drop in for roughly 2.3 seconds to give a mini update! Right now, I'm in Miami acting a fool with some of the best people in the world. We're headed out ... talk with you later.
Me
29 July 2010
Tweet this
Dear Ken,
I confess that I need to make a confession because for too long I have denied confessing that I have an addiction to twitter!!! #iConfess
Tweeting is simple and easy. I wake up tweeting. Go to bed tweeting. Send tweets in meetings. Walk tweeting. Tweet at the gym. Tweeting while clubbing. Against @Oprah's wishes, tweet while driving. In class tweeting. Tweeting at church.
It's addictive!
28 July 2010
Loving my friends
Dear Ken,
Today as I was showering, it hit me. I began to think of the amazing people in my life who are nothing short of phenomenal. Often time I fail to comprehend how truly blessed I am to have encountered some incredible acquaintances. Though my immediate circle is quite thin, those who share in my joys and sorrows on a daily basis are ones - without a shout or doubt who are consistent in their dealings and thoughtful in their advice that they give to me.
Surrounded by people who embrace differences and respect the fact that we all don't share the same taste gives me hope. These are the ones who accepts Ken without a price tag. I love these people. They're close just like family. We share tweets, have drinks, laugh, worship together, party together and sometimes cry together. I can't ask for more. Well, I could, but I don't want to appear too greedy :-).
For those who have ever made an impact in my life, given me sound counsel or have shared a memory with me, I truly cherish you! You guys and gals know who you are.
Time to workout. #MobileBlogging.
24 July 2010
Tired with work (already!)
Dear Ken,
My Saturday mornings have turned into grabbing green tea and listening to music until I consciously decide to get up out of the bed and run! Ah. Surviving the work week is now almost equivalent to getting through a painful episode of the Maury Show. The famous "When Sunday Comes" song has been replaced with tweets and facebook status updates with "When FRIDAY Comes". Some of the tweets are: (On Monday) - "#Countdown to Friday" or (on Friday) - "My favorite day of the workweek".
Is our generation already tired of working? Some of my friends and I have been in the workforce for merely 1-6 years (give or take), and according to some of our updates, work is becoming more of a task opposed to enjoyment. Working 40 hours a week to enjoy the finer things in life ... is work and our generation clashing?
Some say that we are just too young and inexperience. Others say that we are so eager and hungry for a management position ... that we desire to work less hours or we expect to make an income greater than $50,000 in our first position, and oh - don't text, e-mail or call [the young employees] about work beyond 9-5.
Getting a head start with researching employment issues, I stumbled across an article on Entrepreneur.com about 12 Benefits of Hiring Older Workers. The author had frightening point-of-views of what makes an older worker better than younger ones.
Well, on Monday, I'll be sure to update twitter with: "2 days of weekend and 5 days of work ... that ain't right!" #JustSaying
My Saturday mornings have turned into grabbing green tea and listening to music until I consciously decide to get up out of the bed and run! Ah. Surviving the work week is now almost equivalent to getting through a painful episode of the Maury Show. The famous "When Sunday Comes" song has been replaced with tweets and facebook status updates with "When FRIDAY Comes". Some of the tweets are: (On Monday) - "#Countdown to Friday" or (on Friday) - "My favorite day of the workweek".
Is our generation already tired of working? Some of my friends and I have been in the workforce for merely 1-6 years (give or take), and according to some of our updates, work is becoming more of a task opposed to enjoyment. Working 40 hours a week to enjoy the finer things in life ... is work and our generation clashing?
Some say that we are just too young and inexperience. Others say that we are so eager and hungry for a management position ... that we desire to work less hours or we expect to make an income greater than $50,000 in our first position, and oh - don't text, e-mail or call [the young employees] about work beyond 9-5.
Getting a head start with researching employment issues, I stumbled across an article on Entrepreneur.com about 12 Benefits of Hiring Older Workers. The author had frightening point-of-views of what makes an older worker better than younger ones.
Well, on Monday, I'll be sure to update twitter with: "2 days of weekend and 5 days of work ... that ain't right!" #JustSaying
17 July 2010
Countdown to Oct 9th
Dear Ken,
For the past two days, I have had my head buried in this Kaplan Review Book. With the LSAT being about 2 1/2 months away, I am in #CrunchMode. The most difficult part is that there is no proper way to prepare for the test. Recalling undergraduate, grad and some post-grad studies, it was easy to memorize a few facts, walk into the class on test day and circle the multiple choice answer or respond to an essay question. The LSAT, seemingly, requires a lot of analytical, brain-guzzling, and reasoning skills. #FML
This 498-page book review is crucial. Stubbornly, I decided against paying 3 installments of $433 to take an in-class review session. Looking back, I think I probably would have benefited by having an instructor explain some of this information to me. Though, it is not all too bad reading over the material and teaching myself ... just takes more time! When I reach a snag in the rug, I find myself being creative by resorting to YouTube videos to explain the more difficult sections. Surely my parents taught me how to hustle! O_o
Preparing for the test has definitely required me to sacrifice a lot. Forgoing the parties, hanging out with friends, losing a little sleep by staying up later, going without using social networking sites for hours and missing a few of the good shows that are still left on TV. Truly, I'm aiming as close to 180 as possible.
For the past two days, I have had my head buried in this Kaplan Review Book. With the LSAT being about 2 1/2 months away, I am in #CrunchMode. The most difficult part is that there is no proper way to prepare for the test. Recalling undergraduate, grad and some post-grad studies, it was easy to memorize a few facts, walk into the class on test day and circle the multiple choice answer or respond to an essay question. The LSAT, seemingly, requires a lot of analytical, brain-guzzling, and reasoning skills. #FML
This 498-page book review is crucial. Stubbornly, I decided against paying 3 installments of $433 to take an in-class review session. Looking back, I think I probably would have benefited by having an instructor explain some of this information to me. Though, it is not all too bad reading over the material and teaching myself ... just takes more time! When I reach a snag in the rug, I find myself being creative by resorting to YouTube videos to explain the more difficult sections. Surely my parents taught me how to hustle! O_o
Preparing for the test has definitely required me to sacrifice a lot. Forgoing the parties, hanging out with friends, losing a little sleep by staying up later, going without using social networking sites for hours and missing a few of the good shows that are still left on TV. Truly, I'm aiming as close to 180 as possible.
15 July 2010
29 June 2010
2018 (a poem i wrote 2.5 months ago)
Dear Ken,
I was kinda hesitant to post this, but I wrote this back on March 30th and published in another place, but I wanted to bring this to you to let you read it. I went through and reread it ... found a few errors - so what? It'll definitely show you how human I be :).
"2018"
I ain't even gonna lie - I'm lost. Traveling through this rough path without direction is scary. When the songwriter sung "my back is against the wall," I echo the sentiments. Head tilted to the sky ... tears streaming down my face ... now, both hands on my knees and head hung down. I think, "God, which way is right?" Afraid to go in either direction because my mind is heavy ... filled with anguish and turmoil and pain and misery and doubt and confusion. Am I delusional? Maybe so. Maybe not. This can't always be this way cause it wasn't always this way. There was a period in time when I could look up to the Father and trust Him to direct my way. But now, all I see is a blur when I seek guidance. All I can hear is noise when I ask for help. All I can feel is fierce winds beating against my body when I take one and then another step. See when I place myself in these situations, I don't understand. I seek to find. And ask to understand and challenge to grow and knock to be answered and speak to be heard and reason to make sense and walk after righteousness to live again ... be a friend to have friends. Friends. Friends ... yeah friends. Or how about friends. Who has friends? We all have friends, right? Friends who we can go to for advice or to listen or to ask questions to or to cry with and share memories with and talk to into the wee hours of the night just because their company is peaceful. But what do I do when I feel like everyone around me is moving ahead and I'm stuck in between a rock and a hard place because of unfortunate circumstances? What do I do when it feels like I've been deserted and hurt by the ones who I thought I could trust? What do I do when it feels like the world is weighing heavy on my shoulders? Some say to tie a knot at the end of my rope and hold on to what little I can. But then I turn and see fathers molesting daughters and sons being raped by their uncles they thought they could trust. Then we are forced to put our faith in a failing education system that doesn't give a damn about if we make it or not. And then we look to the church for guidance only to discover that in some instances it's just a social club or a body of believers who are so judgmental that walking through the left door is sinful. God forbid that we continue judging one another and placing ourselves higher or looking or nose down on one another. Reach back and help her get up. Yeah, you may have warned her that he was no good. So what she found herself in a domestic violence situation or strung out on drugs. Help her get some help. Yeah, maybe he is saggin his pants. But have you stopped to mentor or encourage or find out the root of why he's crying out for attention. Some people make me so sick with the hypocrisy and the folly. I'm ill to my stomach because of the republicans and their obvious racist attacks against a president who believes in one fucking nation under buddah or mohhamad or allah or confucious or god. Believe in whoever the hell you want to believe in. Go to mass. Go to the kingdom hall. Go to the synagogue. Go to the temple. Go to church. Be independent. Do you. I'm so sick and tired of you telling me that I'm wrong because I'm doubtful or worry. Or that I'm abnormal because I believe on sundays when the sermon feels good and then have a hard time trusting on Tuesday through Friday. See mondays and saturdays are okay because I either just came down from a high or anticipating another high. Church has been minimized to a big pep rally, money sucking, pastor pimping organization. Maybe I'm hurt or just simply don't care anymore. Care anymore. Care anymore. Yep. That's how it feels when the little three-year old girl is walking the street barefoot because her mother is strung out on dope - with the needle still sitting in her vein - trying to find food ... can you see her with the strap of the sandle in her mouth - hopeless. We turn and walk away and get out big mansion on the other side of town - afraid to confront the real issues in our backyard. Our masters or doctorate or law degrees start to define us. We forget that we are all like sheep. Or does that verse still exist? The four year old rocking himself to sleep because he witness three and four men walking in and out of the house because the mom gotta do what she gotta do to make a living. And then he goes to school - sleeping in class and then eventually becomes a problem because he's gotten to the sixth grade and can't read. Instead of the school identifying his problem in kindergarten, then label him as "special ed" by the eighth grade. Too embarrassed by his label, he resorts to skipping school and selling drugs because he fits in ... initiated into a gang because he's finally accepted. It's too late now because he has true family, or so he thinks, that loves him. Shit, he just broke into your house the other day. And just last week, he robbed the grocery store and held one of the cashier workers at gun point. His picture is now blasted all across the news because we didn't catch him when he was 4. Standing in front of the judge, she reads off all the charges and no room for rehabilitation because you know what the systems do to those who they are afraid to give help to. Damn, just how fucked up is our judicial system and our penal codes and our governmental agencies. Give me my food stamp card. I want my health care card. Give me WIC ... wait, those are the entitlement programs that the wealthy are seeking to dissolve. Somebody gotta help me. I don't want to work. I just wanna sit at home until the employment benefits run out and then rely on uncle sam to foot the bill. I need the section 8 and then HUD housing. Man, someday our society will wake up and stare the problems in the face. I'm going to get me something to eat.
#imjustsaying
I was kinda hesitant to post this, but I wrote this back on March 30th and published in another place, but I wanted to bring this to you to let you read it. I went through and reread it ... found a few errors - so what? It'll definitely show you how human I be :).
"2018"
I ain't even gonna lie - I'm lost. Traveling through this rough path without direction is scary. When the songwriter sung "my back is against the wall," I echo the sentiments. Head tilted to the sky ... tears streaming down my face ... now, both hands on my knees and head hung down. I think, "God, which way is right?" Afraid to go in either direction because my mind is heavy ... filled with anguish and turmoil and pain and misery and doubt and confusion. Am I delusional? Maybe so. Maybe not. This can't always be this way cause it wasn't always this way. There was a period in time when I could look up to the Father and trust Him to direct my way. But now, all I see is a blur when I seek guidance. All I can hear is noise when I ask for help. All I can feel is fierce winds beating against my body when I take one and then another step. See when I place myself in these situations, I don't understand. I seek to find. And ask to understand and challenge to grow and knock to be answered and speak to be heard and reason to make sense and walk after righteousness to live again ... be a friend to have friends. Friends. Friends ... yeah friends. Or how about friends. Who has friends? We all have friends, right? Friends who we can go to for advice or to listen or to ask questions to or to cry with and share memories with and talk to into the wee hours of the night just because their company is peaceful. But what do I do when I feel like everyone around me is moving ahead and I'm stuck in between a rock and a hard place because of unfortunate circumstances? What do I do when it feels like I've been deserted and hurt by the ones who I thought I could trust? What do I do when it feels like the world is weighing heavy on my shoulders? Some say to tie a knot at the end of my rope and hold on to what little I can. But then I turn and see fathers molesting daughters and sons being raped by their uncles they thought they could trust. Then we are forced to put our faith in a failing education system that doesn't give a damn about if we make it or not. And then we look to the church for guidance only to discover that in some instances it's just a social club or a body of believers who are so judgmental that walking through the left door is sinful. God forbid that we continue judging one another and placing ourselves higher or looking or nose down on one another. Reach back and help her get up. Yeah, you may have warned her that he was no good. So what she found herself in a domestic violence situation or strung out on drugs. Help her get some help. Yeah, maybe he is saggin his pants. But have you stopped to mentor or encourage or find out the root of why he's crying out for attention. Some people make me so sick with the hypocrisy and the folly. I'm ill to my stomach because of the republicans and their obvious racist attacks against a president who believes in one fucking nation under buddah or mohhamad or allah or confucious or god. Believe in whoever the hell you want to believe in. Go to mass. Go to the kingdom hall. Go to the synagogue. Go to the temple. Go to church. Be independent. Do you. I'm so sick and tired of you telling me that I'm wrong because I'm doubtful or worry. Or that I'm abnormal because I believe on sundays when the sermon feels good and then have a hard time trusting on Tuesday through Friday. See mondays and saturdays are okay because I either just came down from a high or anticipating another high. Church has been minimized to a big pep rally, money sucking, pastor pimping organization. Maybe I'm hurt or just simply don't care anymore. Care anymore. Care anymore. Yep. That's how it feels when the little three-year old girl is walking the street barefoot because her mother is strung out on dope - with the needle still sitting in her vein - trying to find food ... can you see her with the strap of the sandle in her mouth - hopeless. We turn and walk away and get out big mansion on the other side of town - afraid to confront the real issues in our backyard. Our masters or doctorate or law degrees start to define us. We forget that we are all like sheep. Or does that verse still exist? The four year old rocking himself to sleep because he witness three and four men walking in and out of the house because the mom gotta do what she gotta do to make a living. And then he goes to school - sleeping in class and then eventually becomes a problem because he's gotten to the sixth grade and can't read. Instead of the school identifying his problem in kindergarten, then label him as "special ed" by the eighth grade. Too embarrassed by his label, he resorts to skipping school and selling drugs because he fits in ... initiated into a gang because he's finally accepted. It's too late now because he has true family, or so he thinks, that loves him. Shit, he just broke into your house the other day. And just last week, he robbed the grocery store and held one of the cashier workers at gun point. His picture is now blasted all across the news because we didn't catch him when he was 4. Standing in front of the judge, she reads off all the charges and no room for rehabilitation because you know what the systems do to those who they are afraid to give help to. Damn, just how fucked up is our judicial system and our penal codes and our governmental agencies. Give me my food stamp card. I want my health care card. Give me WIC ... wait, those are the entitlement programs that the wealthy are seeking to dissolve. Somebody gotta help me. I don't want to work. I just wanna sit at home until the employment benefits run out and then rely on uncle sam to foot the bill. I need the section 8 and then HUD housing. Man, someday our society will wake up and stare the problems in the face. I'm going to get me something to eat.
#imjustsaying
22 June 2010
Response: Listening to America's Youth
Dear Ken,
Before calling it a night, I just wanted to share with you what I wrote in response to an article posted on The Kitchen Table's blog. The article, entitled Listening to America's Youth, was about the perception of younger, church attendees, and how African-American history should be discussed more in the church. Here is my take:
Church, in all due respect, has become a social playground. I often engage in meaningful conversations with my friends about this issue. Young people are turned off by cliques and associations that have been established in the church. Where the church once was a beacon of hope for the downtrodden and a lightening rod of restoration for those who hurt -- has turned into preachers pimping the congregants and promising miracles and blessings for sacrificial seeds. This insults the intelligence of the young (and old), critical thinkers, who view the Higher One as more than a glorified sugar daddy.
While the church might not be perfect, you are correct in pointing out the significance of tradition and history. Whereas tradition calls for devotion, the new church accepts a praise team for praise and worship. Whereas the former church clings to legalistic principles such as women not preaching, unable to wear pants, not sitting in the pulpit or wearing makeup - the new age church is accepting of women rights to have participatory roles.
History is definitely important. Also, embracing change and the creativity of each church reaching the Higher One in their own way should be equally understood.
Before calling it a night, I just wanted to share with you what I wrote in response to an article posted on The Kitchen Table's blog. The article, entitled Listening to America's Youth, was about the perception of younger, church attendees, and how African-American history should be discussed more in the church. Here is my take:
Church, in all due respect, has become a social playground. I often engage in meaningful conversations with my friends about this issue. Young people are turned off by cliques and associations that have been established in the church. Where the church once was a beacon of hope for the downtrodden and a lightening rod of restoration for those who hurt -- has turned into preachers pimping the congregants and promising miracles and blessings for sacrificial seeds. This insults the intelligence of the young (and old), critical thinkers, who view the Higher One as more than a glorified sugar daddy.
While the church might not be perfect, you are correct in pointing out the significance of tradition and history. Whereas tradition calls for devotion, the new church accepts a praise team for praise and worship. Whereas the former church clings to legalistic principles such as women not preaching, unable to wear pants, not sitting in the pulpit or wearing makeup - the new age church is accepting of women rights to have participatory roles.
History is definitely important. Also, embracing change and the creativity of each church reaching the Higher One in their own way should be equally understood.
19 June 2010
Father's Day
Dear Ken,
Father's day is quickly approaching. Actually, it's tomorrrow. I can remember like yesterday when my father divorced us when I was in the second grade. That was roughly 17 years ago ... 7 years old, at the time. We had just moved. At the time, from my 7-year old lenses, it appeared that there were no major rough points in my parent’s marriage. Nonetheless, the ugliness of adultery robbed me of several years of his presence. Growing up for a good portion of the time in a single parent household was extremely difficult.
Reflecting on what one of my friend likes to refer to as “Baby’s Daddy Day,” I am compelled to recall the most fondest memories I have shared with my pops. Travelling down memory lane, some of the days have been amazing, while others have not always been the best. While my adolescent years were the most fragile and sensitive time, to date. I longed to spend time with him -- having conversations of reassurance. Those were some tough days. Because of his absence, I resorted to extreme defense mechanisms to cope with life … hard!
Lately, we have been in the process of repairing our relationship. It has not been the easiest thing, by far, but I am amazed at the continued progress. This task has required a lot of patience, from both parties. I look forward to spending the day appreciating him for being there, when he could, and for the love and support that he shows.
To all the fathers out there – Happy Father’s Day!
17 June 2010
Morning Ramblings
When I should be in the bed, I'm up at 2:05 in the a-m blogging. Unable to sleep, I resort to the next best thing - the internet! Today was a great day. No major complaints. I was able to achieve everything that was scheduled on the "to-do list". Looking back, time went by way too fast.
Preparing for the days ahead, it seems like there is so much to do and so little time to get things done. My life now consists of studying for the LSAT, reading blogs, working, a little partying (okay - a little more than a little), tweeting, and working some more. I haven't even really had a telephone conversation with some of my good friends in a long time. My mom was complaining that I rarely come to visit and how a 5 minute drive-by would be incredibly special. Guess this weekend I'll stop over.
This dieting and working out thing is going great. I'm feeling 120% better as a result of going to the gym, doing cardio, weight lifting and some of the free classes. Changing the way I eat has been a challenge. I can't even dispute that sometimes I get so tempted to stop by a fast food restaurant and chow down. However, instead of forgoing the fast food altogether, I've place strict limitations on what I can eat and how often (maybe once every 2 weeks).
I'm starting to get sleepy, but I wouldn't dare close without mentioning that I'm getting ready to start back going out on dates. After almost 2 years of living the bachelor life, I think I'm a little more mature for the whole couple lifestyle. I've ran across some really interesting folks and some real problematic ones as well. Guess the weeding and sorting is about to begin. Oh, what are you all's thoughts of long-distance dating? Does it work? How far is too far? How often should those in the relationship commit to seeing each other? Just thinking...
Not proofreading. Good night/morning.
Preparing for the days ahead, it seems like there is so much to do and so little time to get things done. My life now consists of studying for the LSAT, reading blogs, working, a little partying (okay - a little more than a little), tweeting, and working some more. I haven't even really had a telephone conversation with some of my good friends in a long time. My mom was complaining that I rarely come to visit and how a 5 minute drive-by would be incredibly special. Guess this weekend I'll stop over.
This dieting and working out thing is going great. I'm feeling 120% better as a result of going to the gym, doing cardio, weight lifting and some of the free classes. Changing the way I eat has been a challenge. I can't even dispute that sometimes I get so tempted to stop by a fast food restaurant and chow down. However, instead of forgoing the fast food altogether, I've place strict limitations on what I can eat and how often (maybe once every 2 weeks).
I'm starting to get sleepy, but I wouldn't dare close without mentioning that I'm getting ready to start back going out on dates. After almost 2 years of living the bachelor life, I think I'm a little more mature for the whole couple lifestyle. I've ran across some really interesting folks and some real problematic ones as well. Guess the weeding and sorting is about to begin. Oh, what are you all's thoughts of long-distance dating? Does it work? How far is too far? How often should those in the relationship commit to seeing each other? Just thinking...
Not proofreading. Good night/morning.
13 June 2010
Struggle
This one vice is getting the best of me. Often times, I think, "if I didn't struggle in this area, I would be ok." This truly keeps my face to the ground. Not out of embarrassment but in hopes of establishing some sort of plan to do better. I look at the situation day in and day out and nothing seems to improve. I might go a week without thinking of engaging, but sometimes, the weight of doing overshadows the times without.
Removing the mask and confronting this issue head on has been quite difficult. I've tried fasting in hopes of gaining some sort of discipline ... much failure! And then, professional help, ie counseling didn't help either. So I look at this and ask, "what do I do next?" Should I reevaluate the situation and continue to make excuses or microscopically examine the root cause? Well, at least, that's what the highly recommended counselor suggested. And after I've gotten to the bottom of the condition, then what?
Is is that I'm seeking one thing and forgetting the other? Or do I already have what I'm seeking and lack the self-control? Whatever the case might be, all I know is that I stand by what I wrote earlier: "This one vice is getting the best of me".
What are your struggles?
Removing the mask and confronting this issue head on has been quite difficult. I've tried fasting in hopes of gaining some sort of discipline ... much failure! And then, professional help, ie counseling didn't help either. So I look at this and ask, "what do I do next?" Should I reevaluate the situation and continue to make excuses or microscopically examine the root cause? Well, at least, that's what the highly recommended counselor suggested. And after I've gotten to the bottom of the condition, then what?
Is is that I'm seeking one thing and forgetting the other? Or do I already have what I'm seeking and lack the self-control? Whatever the case might be, all I know is that I stand by what I wrote earlier: "This one vice is getting the best of me".
What are your struggles?
10 June 2010
If/then
So I'm sitting here studying for the LSAT. I came across the "Formal Logic in Logical Reasoning" section. This is generally referred to as the conditional or if/then statements. So the example is:
If a person lives in the US, then that person must be living in North America.
From the statement, one would conclude: a person who lives in the US lives in North America, but not necessarily the opposite.
Reading further into the explanation, there's one sentence that caught my attention: "So, although you can be sure that the condition depends upon the result, you can never assume that the result requires the condition to occur."
Ok - so what am I getting at?
Nothing really. I just wanted to find a way to throw out my favorite scripture - Isaiah 59:1 (Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear). With this written, if the Lord's hands are not too short and if His ears are not too heavy, then I can rest assure that He will save and hear me!
#imjustsaying
If a person lives in the US, then that person must be living in North America.
From the statement, one would conclude: a person who lives in the US lives in North America, but not necessarily the opposite.
Reading further into the explanation, there's one sentence that caught my attention: "So, although you can be sure that the condition depends upon the result, you can never assume that the result requires the condition to occur."
Ok - so what am I getting at?
Nothing really. I just wanted to find a way to throw out my favorite scripture - Isaiah 59:1 (Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear). With this written, if the Lord's hands are not too short and if His ears are not too heavy, then I can rest assure that He will save and hear me!
#imjustsaying
02 April 2010
Survival!!
Leaving the "7 last sayings of Christ," I feel so proud of myself that I was able to participate in lenten season these past 47 days. I have to admit, two things got the best of me, but I was able to forgo the third - alcohol! Well, if there's a next year, I know what I won't be going without ;-).
Good day!
21 March 2010
Happy Health Care Reform!
Change has finally come to America. Representatives in the House did the right thing by passing health care reform legislation. By now, you have heard all the reasons why. This is not end, but we are definitely headed in right direction. A number of presidents have tried and failed, but President Obama and his administration got it done. Lets work to continue changing America!
19 March 2010
18 March 2010
"All blacks need to leave the store"
... and who said we are living in a post-racial America? I beg to differ!
Coming out of New Jersey, several shoppers in Wal Mart heard: "Attention, Wal-Mart shoppers, all blacks need to leave the store" - over the store's loudspeaker. Can you believe this?
Although this may have been a prank and probably not even sanctioned by Wal Mart or one of its employees, this definitely leaves a sour taste in the mouths of black people.
As we try to shift our mindset to see beyond the color of an individual, instances such as this teaches us that we have not arrived. Even further, this shows that we should continue to have open discussions about racism and the importance of embracing others and their differences. Moving past racism is no easy undertaking, and we should not sweep a situation such as this under the rug. Lets engage.
#teachablemoments
Coming out of New Jersey, several shoppers in Wal Mart heard: "Attention, Wal-Mart shoppers, all blacks need to leave the store" - over the store's loudspeaker. Can you believe this?
Although this may have been a prank and probably not even sanctioned by Wal Mart or one of its employees, this definitely leaves a sour taste in the mouths of black people.
As we try to shift our mindset to see beyond the color of an individual, instances such as this teaches us that we have not arrived. Even further, this shows that we should continue to have open discussions about racism and the importance of embracing others and their differences. Moving past racism is no easy undertaking, and we should not sweep a situation such as this under the rug. Lets engage.
#teachablemoments
13 March 2010
Running
Have 2 more laps on this 7-mile run/jog interval ... feeling exhausted. Nonetheless, this has been an incredible relaxer! Listening to "Peace be still" by Vanessa Bell Armstrong. She's taking me around this track! Uh-oh, stomach cramp.
06 March 2010
Marathon training
So I've started the first official day of marathon training. This will be my second marathon, and I'm really excited about it. Hitting the track for 16 laps or 4 miles did a body good! Wish me luck!
01 March 2010
20 February 2010
Stop defining me!
I really don't want to be defined by religion. Too often, we get caught up in who's right, who's wrong, how it should be done, etc and forget the purpose: serving God and having a personal, intimate connection with Christ.
Winning a philosophical or religious debate is what some preachers have resorted to. What if I like some of the principles of the Catholic faith and some of the beliefs of the Jewish? How about finding those guiding principles that best relates to me and begin living and walking them out without being handcuffed or classified as a Baptist, COGIC, Muslim, Pentecostal, or Budhist.
Religious figureheads would counter and say that a "double-minded man is unstable in all of his ways" or it is appropriate to be "cold or hot - not lukewarm". Fine with that, but I am more convinced than ever that relationship trumps religion.
Winning a philosophical or religious debate is what some preachers have resorted to. What if I like some of the principles of the Catholic faith and some of the beliefs of the Jewish? How about finding those guiding principles that best relates to me and begin living and walking them out without being handcuffed or classified as a Baptist, COGIC, Muslim, Pentecostal, or Budhist.
Religious figureheads would counter and say that a "double-minded man is unstable in all of his ways" or it is appropriate to be "cold or hot - not lukewarm". Fine with that, but I am more convinced than ever that relationship trumps religion.
16 February 2010
Lenten season
This is one of the most exciting, yet challenging times of the year. As I prepare to receive the ashes with the traditional: "Remember you are dust and will return to dust," I will also pause for 40-46 days in a period of self-denial to strengthen my bond with the Savior. In celebration of Christ's resurrection, my pastor has asked church members to begin the Daniel's Fast. In doing so, we will read the New Testament together. I will be challenging myself to forgo three things during this Lenten season in hopes of starting a fresh and reestablishing my commitment to Christ. Everyone who are fasting or giving up something, remember when you are tempted, just ask for strength.
Happy Fat Tuesday!
Happy Fat Tuesday!
30 January 2010
28 January 2010
SOTU Thoughts
Last night’s State of the Union indicated one thing: America still has her hands full.
Before last night’s address, I admit that cynicism and pessimistic sentiments started to creep in. Over this past year, President Obama and his administration have had to make some pretty unpopular and bold actions. Some moves have been received with pretty moderate support while others have been unwelcoming, especially from the Party of No. Some of the administration’s important first steps have alienated independent voters and frustrated a lot of the democrats along the way.
His speech served to reinforce the very idea that we know is true: this is America’s defining moment. Although in the past she has deprived the black race of some of the most basic and essential liberties, the acronym USA embodies a substantial buoyancy of hope and justice and freedom and democracy and independence.
President Obama’s tone in his first State of the Union compared to that of the 43rd President’s was noticeably different. Whereas former President Bush’s main priority was the War on Terror, there was a symbol of new wars headed our way: War of Fixing the Economy, War on Getting Americans Back to Work, War on Health Care, War on K-12 and Higher Education, and War on Putting American’s Needs in Front of Partisan Bickering. He shifted the nation’s top priorities. This is most needed.
Middle class Americans have it hard. It is a daily fight to prevent home foreclosures, work to make ends meet, taking out a student loan to gain access to a quality and affordable education, working to combat racial disparities, unfair gender or sexual discrimination – while those on the other side of the aisle live with insensible tax breaks and record bonuses.
Americans were often reminded last year that we needed to tighten our belts and that those on the Hill would be more committed than ever to ensure that our economy rebounds, people get back to work, and that reaching across the divided party line would become normal practices – all for the common purpose of creating a more perfect Union. But is it so? Our belts cannot get any tighter!
President Obama reminded me tonight that he gets it. He understands the hard times that everyday people are facing. He is in touch with those who wake up each day on a daily grind to find employment, and those who have to choose between feeding their children or provide adequate health care coverage.
When times get hard, people bail. What we cannot afford is the government turning its back on the people who need the resources the most. President Obama explained that it is not about winning another election, but it is about getting the people’s work done.
We elected them. We decide if they stay or go.
Before last night’s address, I admit that cynicism and pessimistic sentiments started to creep in. Over this past year, President Obama and his administration have had to make some pretty unpopular and bold actions. Some moves have been received with pretty moderate support while others have been unwelcoming, especially from the Party of No. Some of the administration’s important first steps have alienated independent voters and frustrated a lot of the democrats along the way.
His speech served to reinforce the very idea that we know is true: this is America’s defining moment. Although in the past she has deprived the black race of some of the most basic and essential liberties, the acronym USA embodies a substantial buoyancy of hope and justice and freedom and democracy and independence.
President Obama’s tone in his first State of the Union compared to that of the 43rd President’s was noticeably different. Whereas former President Bush’s main priority was the War on Terror, there was a symbol of new wars headed our way: War of Fixing the Economy, War on Getting Americans Back to Work, War on Health Care, War on K-12 and Higher Education, and War on Putting American’s Needs in Front of Partisan Bickering. He shifted the nation’s top priorities. This is most needed.
Middle class Americans have it hard. It is a daily fight to prevent home foreclosures, work to make ends meet, taking out a student loan to gain access to a quality and affordable education, working to combat racial disparities, unfair gender or sexual discrimination – while those on the other side of the aisle live with insensible tax breaks and record bonuses.
Americans were often reminded last year that we needed to tighten our belts and that those on the Hill would be more committed than ever to ensure that our economy rebounds, people get back to work, and that reaching across the divided party line would become normal practices – all for the common purpose of creating a more perfect Union. But is it so? Our belts cannot get any tighter!
President Obama reminded me tonight that he gets it. He understands the hard times that everyday people are facing. He is in touch with those who wake up each day on a daily grind to find employment, and those who have to choose between feeding their children or provide adequate health care coverage.
When times get hard, people bail. What we cannot afford is the government turning its back on the people who need the resources the most. President Obama explained that it is not about winning another election, but it is about getting the people’s work done.
We elected them. We decide if they stay or go.
25 January 2010
Rundown
- Fantasia's show comes on tonight.
- The US Supreme Court gave the okay for unlimited amount of monies to be donated to political figures from corporations (bad idea)
- First Lady Michelle Obama stopped by "The Wendy Williams Show"... well, a wax figure did.
- Super Bowl is February 7: Saints vs Colts (not worth watching)
- President Obama will deliver his first State of the Union speech on Wednesday.
- Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke term expires on 1/31/10 - will he be reconfirmed?
- President Obama told ABC: "I'd rather be a really good one-term president than a mediocre two-term president."
- Black History Month is just seven days away.
23 January 2010
Health care reform to jobs
With the recent election of Senator-elect Scott Brown in Massachusetts, the once promising health care reform is probably stalled. As a result of the republican winning, the democrats do not have the supermajority – which is bad news for President Obama and his promises.
As much as I hate that this is happening, the democrats can only fault themselves for taking way too long to pass the bill. Boy oh boy do I dislike the agenda of the Republican Party; however, I can honestly admit - when they did have the majority, they pushed their legislation through, with or without bipartisan support. Democrats failed to deliver. And when November comes around, if the dems have fewer seats, think: health care.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi admitted earlier this week that she does not have enough votes in the House to pass the middle-of-the-road, not-what-was-originally-promised Health Care Reform that the Senate passed. Perhaps these representatives fear that a stamp of approval on this legislation would equate to less votes in the upcoming election. Rightfully so - because several left-leaning liberals, including myself, was depending on those who are seated now to get it right. And they did not.
Several of my friends have either graduated college or is pretty close to graduating. Growing up, our parents placed emphasis on finishing high school and going to college "so that you can get a good job". Okay. It has happened. Where are the jobs? Americans are hurting.
Everyone that can work and wants to work, should be able to work! This Congress definitely needs to step up and deliver. We need jobs (oh, and REAL health care reform, too).
As much as I hate that this is happening, the democrats can only fault themselves for taking way too long to pass the bill. Boy oh boy do I dislike the agenda of the Republican Party; however, I can honestly admit - when they did have the majority, they pushed their legislation through, with or without bipartisan support. Democrats failed to deliver. And when November comes around, if the dems have fewer seats, think: health care.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi admitted earlier this week that she does not have enough votes in the House to pass the middle-of-the-road, not-what-was-originally-promised Health Care Reform that the Senate passed. Perhaps these representatives fear that a stamp of approval on this legislation would equate to less votes in the upcoming election. Rightfully so - because several left-leaning liberals, including myself, was depending on those who are seated now to get it right. And they did not.
Several of my friends have either graduated college or is pretty close to graduating. Growing up, our parents placed emphasis on finishing high school and going to college "so that you can get a good job". Okay. It has happened. Where are the jobs? Americans are hurting.
Everyone that can work and wants to work, should be able to work! This Congress definitely needs to step up and deliver. We need jobs (oh, and REAL health care reform, too).
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