Jazz In The Gardens-As An Observer-Day 120

Happy Wednesday.

I hope you have the best of day of your life today. I wish you much happiness, success, and love.

This past weekend, my daughter were at the almost renowned, "Jazz in the Gardens". This niffy name coms from the fact that many musical, and/or jazz musicians are invited to come out to entertain Miami, in Miami Gardens. Miami Gardens is the third largest city in Miami-Dade county. The population is diverse, yet primarily African American. The mayor of this city is African American as well.

My daughter and I went to this event, as media observers. We covered this event, in order to report to you, as well as others what it is all about. So here goes.

Day 1.-Saturday, March, 20, 2010:

When we arrived, we met different personnel, to claim to be from various media outlets. The media room, was a tent that was set-up, specifically for the media, and it was where the artist were to be photographed and interviewed. (If we were permitted to ask questions). Moreover, there were various local artist, such as Rachel Brown, KaWan DeBose, and sexy John Saxx, (my daughter's favorite),

Rachel Brown:

She was absolutely beautiful. She made herself available to whomever wanted to speak with her. She took as many pictures, as the camera would take. She wanted the coverage. Although, Tay and I did get to hear her sing. We loved her personality. In fact, Ms. Brown autographed one of her calenders', for my daughter. THank you Ms. Brown, as we wish you much success in your career.

Kawan Debose:

He was cute and adorable. He knows his music, which was soulful, and energetic. My daughter said he was very "nice", when she interviewed him. He made himself available for all pictures and interviews.

John Saxx:

My daughter had met Mr. Saxx prior to this event, so this was an "extra special" interview for her. John Saxx, is a local artist here in Miami, who, you may have, guessed it, plays the saxophone. He was a gem. Mr. Saxx, and my daughter, both had on jazzy hats. He allowed media to take as many photos as we wanted, and he made himself available to any media outlet, that had a microphone to record him. Thank you John Saxx, and much success to you.

Now the national artist were a different story, at least some of them were. There were many more stipulations. Such as they most national artist would agree to be photographed for a few minutes, and would take only 2-3 questions, from the array of media outlets, who were there. These national artist were, K'Jon, Teena Marie, Robin Thicke, and Mary J. Blige.

K'Jon:

This was so very intersting to me because I had only recently research this artist. Not because I knew he would be at the is event, but because I fell in love with his song, "On the ocean". I listen to it religiously daily. I love this song. But anyway, he was very kind. My daughter began her interview of him, by telling him that her mother, is a native of Detroit, Michigan, just like himself. She also asked him " how does he want his music to influence young people"? He responded positively to her, and commented on her question. My daughter loved him, and appreciated his kindness toward a budding reporter.

Teena Marie:

NO SHOW in the media room.

Robin Thicke:

Wonderful. Handsome. Humble. Handsome. Generous. Handsome. Oh I said that several times already. LOL. This man is absolutely wonderful. I will tell you this, I believe his wife is a very lucky lady. There were no uppity airs about this man. He made himself available for the media. We took pictures, and my daughter asked Mr. Thicke the same question she had asked K'Jon. Mr. Thicke walked over to my daughter, and shook her hand, and answered my daughter's question, making my daughter feel so good. It was an awesome time in her life. Thank you Robin Thicke, for making a little girl feel like a star.

Mary J. Blige:

First we waited for about an hour for her to come to the media room. Limited pictures, four police officers to guard her "press conference". No questions. It sucked. I felt so bad, because my daughter really wanted to speak with Mary J., and I loved her before this. I felt that a woman that has come from the ghettos, and been through as much as she has, with all of the physical abuse by the hands of a man that she thought she loved, would humble her. Instead, it was quite the opposite. It was as though she was too good to take time to communicate with her fans. At least my daughter got a wave from her. :(


Tomorrow, I will tell you about the Sunday, March 21, 2010 event. I will tell you the truth.

Have a great day,

L. for Love

I Am Moving Forward-Day 119

Happy Monday. I have not written an entry in almost a month. I have missed you with all sincerity. However, I have been focused on other matters, and as a result, my attention was diverted.

I have been focused on my book that I have decided to write. I will share more with you as the days past, but I have begun my journey with words. I have thought about writing a book for some time, but I never actually started the process until now. I told you that this year will be different. It is about bringing my thoughts into fruition. It is about boldly stepping out, and separating myself from the crowd.

It reminds me of Lady Gaga. She is an entertainer, who dresses to entertain. She wears very unusual attire, which she uses to separate herself from the crowd. A few months ago, I read an interview of Lady Gaga, and she admitted that her goal in the entertainment world was NOT to be just another "girl with a pretty face and nice body". She wanted to be different. And she is.

I want to take a step in the direction of what I enjoy doing, and what makes me happy. I am not happy living day to day, living paycheck to paycheck. I want so much more. Now let me say that if the latter is your life, this may be great for you, but it is not for me. We must make our own choices in life, in deciding what path to take. The choices that make us happy, and/or content vary from person to person. The key is to find out what you like to do.

Moreover, I will be sharing much more with you s the days and weeks pass. I will also share with you that I am encouraging my daughter to publish some of the things that she has written. My baby girl is very very talented.

However, I wanted to give you some insight as to what I have been doing, and what my plans are. I am also dealing with some personal issues, that I refuse to deter me. I am moving forward.

As I always share with you, life is short, live it, and enjoy it now.

Have a great day and a better work week.

L. for Love

Asians vs. Blacks, in education-Part II- Day 118

Happy Thursday to you.

I hope you have a wonderful and properous day. Today, I am completing my research with regard to Asians vs. Blacks, in education. Why is it Asians excel in education, and most Black children fail?

Black Americans:

"Black males in Michigan have the lowest high school graduation rate in the country, according to new University of Michigan research.

Only 33 percent of black males in the state complete high school. In contrast, white males in Michigan have a 74 percent graduation rate, according to UM?s Black Male Project .

?Researchers, policy makers and educators increasingly acknowledge that low K-12 academic performance, high school completion and higher education participation levels for African-American males represent a national crisis,? Rowley said in a statement. ?National data reveal that African-American male students are underperforming at alarming rates across the K-12 educational pipeline as well as in their college attendance and completion rates.?

Rowley, an assistant professor of higher education and Afroamerican and African studies at UM, said the project is designed to examine the factors that contribute to the crisis of black males and education.

?We plan to highlight the variation in black-male background characteristics and attitudes that affect their overall achievement and college aspirations,? he said. ?We also strive to highlight strategies and interventions to mediate these factors.?

Rowley believes that the poor statistics reflect the negative self-image black men have toward their academic efficacy. Public schools should work closely with UM to match educated black men mentors with K-12 students, he said.

Student achievement gaps need to be aggressively addressed. For example, the percentage of Blacks age 25 and older with a high school diploma or more was 72 percent in the 2000 census, compared to 85.5 percent for Whites. In addtion, the percentage of Blacks with bachelor's degrees or more was 14 percent, compared to 27 percent of Whites." (University of Michigan raises awareness of education gap for black males By Dustin Walsh)

"Closing achievement gaps is a critical issue. The performance of Blacks is systematically different from that of other racial and ethnic groups. Decreasing gaps in student achievement means that we must increase the learning gains of Blacks. This will require the creation of public policies and legislation that support public schools committed to identifying and setting high, worthwhile, and attainable goals for students and ensuring that teachers and students are supported in these efforts. It will also require meaningful collaboration among community organizations and leaders, parents, and the school. The success of the school must become the success of the community.

There is a need to increase diversity and cultural competence in the teaching workforce. Recruiting and retaining teachers of color is important, as some children of color will go through their entire educational career without having a teacher who looks like them or who can identify with the uniqueness of their cultural heritage.

Adequate and equitable resources are important to the future success and development of Black students. Far too often, Black students—males in particular—are unnecessarily placed in special education classes, while the number of Black students who take honors and advanced courses remains significantly below that of other groups. School funding structures that lead to under-funding and under-resourcing our neediest schools have furthered the achievement gaps. All students deserve a quality public education, and this can only occur when we close the gaps in equity and access."(NEA: Blacks, Education Issues)

Comparative Analysis:

While it is clear that most Asians do better than Caucasians with regard to education, the question is why? It is also clear that Asians value education, and place a high degree of expectation on it. They believe that whatever it takes to achieve a quality education, at the expense of pleasure must be done. The Asians understand that you can play more when you have worked at the forefront.

The Black culture is completely different. Most Black people emphasize a "good time" before hardwork, and education success. When some Black children spend more time studying, other Black children try to publically embarrass them by saying..."they talk white". Now, I did know that intelligence have a color on it. Basically, in essence, the children are saying. "Black Ebonics, which is really ignorance covered up as accepted speech and speaking proper English is White, which is more intelligent, is more accepted in the Black community. Why? Could it be because most of the Black children are really illiterate?

Think about this:

If my speach patterns are incomplete sentences, improper enunciation of words, slang, and down right ignorance, I speak acceptance Black speech. But if I pronouce my words correctly, speak in complete sentences, and even know how to spell most, if not all of the words that I use, I speak like a "White person"? Are you real, or am I on candid camera? I am saying that Black people who think that ignorance is acceptable need to be reprogrammed.

There is clearly a reason why most Black children fail in school. Only a fool does the same thing over and over again, and expect a different result. So I ask....Black people....what are you doing to actually make changes in education? hmm...the same thing? THINK about it.

Have a great day,

L. for Love

Asians vs. Blacks, in education-Part 1- Day 117

Hello to you , and may your day be as bright as the sun. May your smile be as wide as the ocean.

I have not written in about a week or so. Not good. I miss writing my blog. I love the ability to be able to communicate, unrestrained. Moreover, I have been doing a lot of thinking. Thinking why it is that most Black people are always last when it comes to education or our thinking ability. Do Black people take the time to think? What do we think about about education? I have done some research to ascertain these questions, and the answers may not surprise you but the truth need to be told, and openly discussed. Most Black people place little credence on education. I will compare and analyze the Asian culture and education with Black people culture and education.

Asians:

According to research:

Among Asian communities, the most popular cultural view emphasizes the need for an
individual to succeed in their education (Sue & Okazaki, 1990). Previous studies have identified practices
in many Asian families that are said to promote educational achievements, these are: (1) demands and
expectations for achievement, (2) induction of guilt about parental sacrifices and the need to fulfill
obligations, (3) respect for education, (4) social comparisons with other Asian-American families in
terms of educational success, and (5) obedience to elders such as teachers. This is supported by studies
that show how Asian American students achieving significantly higher on their academic more often
compared to their American counterparts (Goyette & Xie, 1999). This may serve as an indication of how
important education is among Asians. Asian-Americans for instance tend to score higher than whites on tests of math ability, have higher GPAs, and more likely to attend a four-year college course than that of
American whites (Hsia, 1998, Lai, Nagasawa & Wong, 1998; Sue & Okazaki, 1990; Chen & Stevenson,
1995). Numerous comparative studies have reported that, regardless of social class and family economic
background, Asian students have higher SAT scores, higher grade-point averages, more years of
schooling completed, and a lower dropout rate than European Americans and other ethnic groups (Kim
& Chun, 1994; Sue & Abe, 1995). Many researchers have looked for explanations to account for this
remarkable phenomenon (Hirschman & Wong, 1986; Kao, 1995; Kim & Chun, 1994; Peng & Wright,
1994; Sue & Okazaki, 1990). Two views have emerged from previous studies: one ascribes this success to
Asian cultural values, the other to the demands of acculturation.

In particular, Asian cultural values and practices such as the importance of hard work, respect
for education, and high expectations for achievement have been identified to promote high educational
attainments (Kitano, 1984; Sue & Okazaki, 1990; Vernon, 1982). To accomplish goals in learning, Asian
learners are said to be determined, diligent, and generally prepared to undergo hardships and
difficulties where academic tasks are concerned (Li, 2003). They consistently persevere and singlemindedly
concentrate because they were born and raised in a culture which stresses the importance of
effort over ability. They study hard, regardless of favorable or difficult learning conditions and are
motivated to improve themselves continuously. For them, it is always possible to excel, regardless of
how difficult the task maybe, provided that they consistently show and exert considerable effort over
academic tasks.(Asian Values and Epistemological Beliefs as Predictors of Valuing Education)
Angeli Marie S. Malaki
Ma. Socorro Theresa Z. Soriano
Florangel M. Valdez
De La Salle University-Manila

In essence, most Asians understand that it is important to work first and play later. They understand the value of prioritizing. They place a very high value on education.

I was speaking to a friend of mine, when I brought up Asians vs. Blacks in education. He told me that Asians spend "all of their time studying". He went to say that it was almost like "child abuse", the way the Asians make their children study, and forego playing." I listened to him intently. Then I said to him, ok so you are telling me that Asians abuse their chldren when they expect their children to spend more time studying than playing?

I went on..let us look at the results. Asians go on to become some of the brightest minds in the country. While most Blacks aspire to become atheletes and rappers. Where are Black people's thinkers? I further brought to his attention that a fool does the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result. For example: If I want to lose weight but I continue eating donuts and cheese burgers, where have I made any changes to see a different result? There.

If most Black children are using the bulk of their time to play, and very little on studies, the results are clear. They will fail, and or get mediocre grades, so where are the changes for a different result for most Black children?

The Bar must be raised. An expectation of greatness must be reinterated.

I will discuss research discussing the problems with most Black children, and their low grades tomorrow.

Have a great day.

L. for Love

The Psychology of "WHY"-Day 116

Happy Monday.

May your day be a blessing waiting to happen. May you have a productive work week.''

This past weekend was challenging and alot of fun for my daughter and me. First, my daughter was invited to a big "star-studded" event to interview attorney Willie Gary, a prominent attorney here in Florida. Mr. Gary is a multimillionaire, that has won some major landmark cases in Florida. He has over 200 people working in his firm.

My daughter has interviewed radio personality, Tom Joyner. He has the radio program with about 10 million listeners per day. My daughter is working on taking the recordings and transferring them to her blog, that she is writing. She took many pictures throughout the event that I have posted some of the pictures above.

This was the most exciting time my daughter had in a while. She wants to expose these professionals to other children to encourage children to study so they too can enjoy the fruits of their labor. My daughter has decided to speak to professionals and translate these interviews so that young people can understand what it will take for them to become successful.

Why? Because young people need to be encouraged.

My daughter constantly ask me these questions. Why mommy? Why not? Why do they? Why do they not?

Why do children ask so many questions? Have you ever thought about this?

Remember the program that Bill Cosby hosted years ago...."Children ask the darnest questions?

According to new research by Maggie Severns, Why as Why? "At some point, most people who spend time around young children encounter a youngster who likes to play the “Why?” game. For those who are not familiar with the “Why?” game, a child asks a question and an adult answers, to which the child asks a second question: Why?

The adult explains the answer and gets the question again: Why?

For a long time, researchers believed that most questions young children ask were being asked in order to prolong a conversation, and not because the child wanted an actual explanation about something. Why? The belief was that children don’t have an understanding of causality until they are between 5 and 8 years old; meaning that they don’t see how one thing can happen or exist because of something else. However, as research continues to dig deeper into the minds of young children, many researchers are starting to believe that very young children—possibly infants—can make causal inferences about the relationship between objects in their environment.

Psychologists writing in this month’s issue of Child Development probe the relationship between young children and their surroundings by taking a look at what questions they ask and how they react when someone responds in order to explain why. Their findings provide new evidence of the power of language interactions between adults and children – driving home the point that the strongest learning environments are those in which adults engage in rich conversations with children, even those as young as 2.
The studies were conducted by Brandy Frazier, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii, and Susan A. Gelman, and Henry M. Wellman, both professors in psychology at the University of Michigan.
Frazier and her colleagues hypothesized that if children actively seek explanatory knowledge by asking questions, then they will react differently depending on the answer that they receive from an adult. They set out to examine not only the questions kids initially asked, but also their responses to the answers adults gave them. They figured that if children ask questions strictly to spark or extend a conversation, then any answer they receive will be satisfying. But if they are asking questions because they want to know an answer, then the nature and length of that answer will effect how the child reacts.
“I was interested in the active role that kids play in finding out about the world,” Frazier explained in a conversation last week."

So it clearly proven that the most productive enviroments for children are the ones in which they can ask questions, and get explanatory responses. Do not try and prevent children from asking questions, you may stunt their learning. Instead, encourage children to ask questions.

I know first hand that it can be challenging answering the questions. My daughter goes on and on with questions. She is a talker, and a thinker. She wants to know. Sometimes, I may get weiry of answering her questions, or sometimes, I do not have answers that she seeks. But I always encourage her to ask me anything she wants, and I promised her that I will do my very best to answer, and if I do not have the answer, we can research it. I explain to my daughter, like my daddy explained to me, if you have a question you need to ask someone for the answer or now I tell my daughter, research it. With information abound, answers are at your finger tips. Moreover, I carefully explain to her that it is important that she ask all of her questions while she has a teacher in front of her, and for further understanding research and study.

The "Psychology of why" is astounding. This is the way we learn. It is only as young adults and beyond that we began to shy away from asking questions. People try to conveince us that if you ask the wrong question, you will be frowned upon. But I say WRONG! Ask whatever you want to know. Don't worry about asking a "stupid question". Why? Because there is no such thing as a stupid question. The onlt stupid question is the one that is NOT asked.

Knowing this, I encourage to ask your children....what is on YOUR mind today?

Have a wonderful day.

L. for Love

The "Birth" of Complacency-Day 115

Happy Monday:

May your work week be the best week ever. But let us first deal with today, as it is the present, and a gift given to each of us.

This past weekend was a joyous and sadden time, for my daughter, and myself. We found out some very good news, while listening to some of the best motivational speakers there are, and on the other hand, we learned that every that is "said", is not always the truth. But most important, we learned that we have each other, and as long as God gives me breath in my body, I will always be here for my beautiful daughter.

Moving forward. I started reading a new book this weekend. The book is a motivational, self-help book, which are my favorite books. I believe that you are what you think you are. I believe that our mind is so powerful that we can convince it to believe whatever we desire to have, and our mind will develop a "course of action" by which we can accomplish our desired results. I believe that we must constantly motivate ourselves, by what we read, watch and the people we allow in our lives. Sometimes, we have no control over some of the people, as they may be related by blood. But we can surely limited the access these same "negative" people have inour lives.

I am because I believe I am, is my philosophy. So why are so many people, especially Black people, complacent with their present state of being? First, what is complacency?

Complacency-a feeling of quiet pleasure or security, often while unaware of some potential danger, defect, or the like; self-satisfaction or smug satisfaction with an existing situation, condition, etc.

Motivate-to provide with a motive or motives; incite; impel.

Power-ability to do or act; capability of doing or accomplishing something.

Let's just think for a moment about our America's present economic condition. What are we spending most of our money on? Do you know? huh? Let me give you a clue.....complacency. Now can you guess what it is?

United States of America spend most of our tax dollars on "social programs". Yep, that is right, and I said it. Albeit, I have used some of these programs, as a means to help get on my feet, as opposed to allowing the use of these programs to become a way of life.

In fact, did you know: "The Treasury Department has the second largest expense in the federal budget. Only income redistribution (The Departments of Health and Human Services, HUD, and Agriculture (food stamps)) is higher. As the debt increases, so does the interest payment. Social spending is the largest item in our federal budget. Do you have "Compassion" for lower income earners?

In Fiscal Year 2009 (FY09), the Treasury Department spent $383 Billion of your money on interest payments to the holders of the National Debt. Compare that to NASA at $19 Billion, Education at $53 Billion, and Department of Transportation at $73 Billion".(Amac)

We have become a nation of people depending on others to take care of them instead people taking care of themselves. We have become a nation full of people that are complacent. It is NOT the taxpayers responsibility to make sure our children are fed, housed and taken care of. I do not get this. When a girl/young woman makes a conscious decision to engage in unprotected sex, and oops, gets pregnant, who is responsible for that child? Are you ? Am I?

The responsibility clearly lie with the young woman, and the young man that take it upon themselves to engage in sexual acts. Their action eventually produce a baby. The baby must be cared for emotionally, financially and in all other aspects. These parents need to get a job, to financially suppor their child, and solicit help from their family members. Taxpayors should NOT be responsible for other people mistakes. If you make a baby, YOU should be financially responsible for it. This is the only way to make people responsible for their own actions. Otherwise, we create a nation of complacency, which we have done. Everybody says "give me", and no one wants to work and be responsible for their actions.

What if we started a new government plan. NO WORK. NO FOOD. How many people do you think you would see just standing around waiting on someone to give them something for absolutely nothing? Think about it this way.""For society as a whole, nothing comes as a 'right' to which we are 'entitled'. Even bare subsistence has to be produced.... The only way anyone can have a right to something that has to be produced is to force someone else to produce it... The more things are provided as rights, the less the recipients have to work and the more the providers have to carry the load." Thomas Sowell, quoted in Forbes and Reader's Digest.

We need to take a greater stand against complacency, and make people be responsible for their own lives, and their own choices. I truly believe that if you give a man a fish, he will eat for one day. But if you TEACH him to fish, he will eat for a lifetime. Teach people to be self reliant. The more people are self reliant, the more we can reduce our budget deficit, and maybe one day, education will become the priority, and all American children will be guaranteed a free college education.

Now "education" is something, most taxpayers, don't mind paying for. An educated people is an educated nation.

Have a wonderful and responsible day.

L. for Love

"Blackness" Is NOT A Handicap- Day 114

Happy Saturday.

I hope you have a productive and wonderful day. May you accomplish your goals, and then some.

I was reading various news on the internet, as I usually do most mornings, and/or evenings. When I came across this blog,
"Why Blacks Suck". When I read just the title, I was taken aback, for a moment. I have always felt, and still feels that people have the absolute right, to voice their genuine opinions, even if the words are insulting to most. I believe in allowing for an open and honest debate.

Moreover, back to the present topic, the writer of this blog recently wrote a piece concluding that "blackness is a handicap". I competely disagree, and I will articulate my position with facts, research data, and not mere words.

First, Dr. Watson, a scientist that completed his research on this subject concluded whites are more intelligent than blacks. "The scientist who won the 1962 Nobel Prize for his work on discovering the structure of DNA has had his upcoming talk cancelled by the Science Museum.

Dr James Watson's controversial views on intelligence state that white people are smarter than black people. A museum spokesperson said "It is a shame that a man with a record of scientific distinction should see his work overshadowed by his own irrational prejudices."

In a recent interview, Watson said:

"...all our social policies are based on the fact that their intelligence is the same as ours - whereas all the testing says not really."

He also said that he hoped everyone was equal but "people who have to deal with black employees find this is not true."

No stranger to controversy, Watson is on record as once stating that a woman should have the right to abortion if it can be proved the unborn child is going to be a homosexual." (RustyLyme)

In another "race and intelligence" study taken from "Storm Front.org, it concluded:

"African-born blacks comprise about 16 percent of the U.S. foreign-born black population (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2000), and are “considerably” more educated than other immigrants. The vast majority of these immigrants come from minority white countries in East and West Africa (e.g. Kenya and Nigeria). While less than 2 percent originate from North or South Africa (CIA World Factbook, 2004; Yearbook of immigration Statistics, 2003). In an analysis of Census Bureau data by the Journal of Blacks in higher education, African immigrants to the United States were found more likely to be college educated than any other immigrant group, which included those from Europe, North America and Asia (see also Nisbett, 2002; U.S. Bureau of the Census, 2000). African immigrants have also been shown to be more highly educated than any native-born ethnic group including white and Asian Americans (Logan & Deane, 2003; Williams, 2005; The Economist, 1996; Arthur, 2000; Selassie, 1998; Nisbett, 2002).

Most data suggests that between 43.8 and 49.3 percent of “all” African immigrants in the United States hold a college diploma (Nisbett, 2002; Charles, 2007; U.S. Census, 2000). This is slightly more than the percentage of Asian immigrants to the U.S., substantially greater than the percentage of European immigrants, nearly “double” that of native-born white Americans, nearly four times the rate of native-born African Americans, and more than “8 times” that of some Hispanic groups (Williams, 2005; Nisbett, 2002; The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, 1999-2000; U.S. Census, 2000). Black immigrants from Africa have also been shown to have rates of college graduation that are “more” than double that of the U.S. born population, in general (Williams, 2005). For example, in 1997, 19.4 percent of all adult African immigrants in the United States held a “graduate degree”, compared to 8.1 percent of adult whites (a difference of “more than” double) and 3.8 percent of adult blacks in the United States, respectively (The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, 1999-2000). This shows that America has an equally large achievement gap between white Americans and African born immigrants as between native born white and black Americans

In the UK, 1988, the Commission for Racial Equality conducted an investigation on the admissions practices of St. George's, and other medical colleges, who set aside a certain number of places for minority students. This informal quota system reflected the percentage of minorities in the general population. However, minority students with Chinese, Indian, or black African heritage had higher academic qualifications for university admission than did whites (Blacks in Britain from the West Indies had lower academic credentials than did whites). In fact, blacks with African origins over the age of 30 had the highest educational qualifications of any ethnic group in the British Isles. Thus, the evidence pointed to the fact that minority quotas for university admissions were actually working against students from these ethnic groups who were on average more qualified for higher education than their white peers (Cross, 1994; Also see, Dustmann and Theodoropoulos, 2006). Dustmann and Theodoropoulos (2006) provided the first thorough investigation of educational attainment and economic behavior of ethnic minority immigrants and their children in Britain. This study investigated how British born minorities performed in terms of education, employment and wages when compared to their parent’s generation, as well as to comparable groups of white natives, using 27 years of “LFS data” (Labour Force Survey). For both generations Black Africans topped the list in both years of schooling/educational qualifications and wages/employment, followed by Indian and Chinese immigrants. In terms of educational attainment levels, their results showed a strong educational background for Britain’s ethnic minority immigrant population, in general, with second generation ethnic minorities on average doing better than their parents, and “substantially better” than their white peers for most socio-economic indicators."(Storm Front.org)

Therefore, I conclude that "blackness itself is not a handicap. But I must admit, that with all of the ills in the Black communities, it may appear this way to many. It is just that we have too many weak Black males in America, that do nothing but give us a bad reputation. I will not run from an honest opinion about how American Blacks are fairing. Most Blacks in America do suck. And by "suck", I mean, that most Black American are NOT doing well at all. Most have become complacent, and excepted the slave mentality that "the white must save us from ourselves."

But look at African Blacks from other countries such as Nigeria, and Ghana, and you will see that "true" Africans believe in education. They clearly understand that an educated people is an educated nation.

They, unlike most American blacks, believe in working hard for the betterment of their communities. Most of the African men also believe in rearing, and taking care of their children, which is the begining of true intelligence. Why? Because children eventually grow up and repeat what they learn.

Have a wonderful day, and please do not forget to read.:)

L. for Love

Why Can't the Truth Be Told Without Backlash? Day 113

Happy Tuesday:

I hope you have a wonderful day. May all of your goals be accomplished, and may you find the peace we all seek.

Why can't the "truth" be told without backlash? I ask this question in wake of the remarks made by Andre Bauer. Mr. Bauer is the South Carolina politician, who made remarks at a town hall meeting. According to published reports, he said "my grandmother was not a highly educated woman, but she told me as a small child to quit feeding stray animals. You know why? Because they breed! You're facilitating the problem if you give an animal or a person ample food supply. They will reproduce, especially ones that don't think too much further than that." (Associated Press)

Now let us intelligently scrutinize these remarks, without being emotionally attached to the words. Let analyze them without following what anyone else would say. Let us dig deep into ourselves, and ask ourself this question: Are the remarks true?

It is not about who is offended or why. Just ask yourself or the remarks true. Well are they? Do you believe that you should not feed stray animals, because by doing so you will help to facilitate "the problem". Now the first question that come into my mind is what problem is he referring to? In my mind, I conclude that he is referring to people that are not productive citizens. The leeches. They just basically live off tax payers by getting their free lunches. And when an "ample" food supply is given to "these people", they are able to survive and eventually multiply and therein the problem is exacerbated. In other words, the problem gets worse, it deteriorates.

Now I pose this question to you again. Do you agree? But here is the "kicker". Mr. Bauer, then makes the comment .."especially ones that don't think too much further than that." Now I ask you, who do you think Mr. Bauer is referring to? Let's be real, and genuine with eachother. My feelings will not be hurt.

Let me put is this way. I will evaluate based upon common knowledge of South Carolina's politics, and the reality of the situation.

South Carolina:

South Carolina spends more on dropouts after they leave school than it spent when they were in school
More than 30,000 South Carolina students in the class of 2005 failed to graduate from high school. The state’s
overall graduation rate is about 52.5 percent. Independent estimates have placed South Carolina’s graduation
rate at the very bottom of the 50 states. On average, South Carolina’s more than 340,000 working-age dropouts
each earn $8,000 less than high school graduates each year, totaling $2.8 billion, and reduce state employment
by more than 37,000 jobs.
Each new class of dropouts produces public costs of $98 million every year for the rest of their lives, or about
$3,193 per dropout.
Over an expected lifetime of 50 years, one year’s class of dropouts will cost South Carolina $4.9 billion.
These cost estimates only include costs associated with three sources: lost revenue from taxes and fees,
increased Medicaid costs and increased incarceration costs. Because dropouts also incur many other public
costs, the true public cost of dropouts is larger than $3,193 per dropout per year.
Just the state portion of school funding in South Carolina (not including local and federal funding sources) is
about $3,228 per student. This means the state is spending more on dropouts each year after they leave school
than it spent when they were in school.

Dropouts are Twice as Likely to Rely on Medicaid; Dropouts Increase South Carolina’s
Medicaid Costs by $155 Million Each Year
Individuals who fail to obtain at least a high school diploma are at a much greater risk of reliance on safetynet
program such as Medicaid, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, housing assistance and food stamps. The
probability of being a benefi ciary of one or more public-assistance programs increases dramatically for individuals
who do not have at least a high school diploma. (The High Cost of South Carolinas Low Graduation Rates, Brian J. Gottlob
Senior Fellow Milton and Rose D. Friedman Foundation)

Now you should begin to clearly see a major problem in South Carolina, and the entire country. Too many people trying to get free services, while the tax payors carry the burden. Now it is mutually exclusive if someon is temporarily unemployed, and need service, but I am referring to the ones that make it a vicious cycle of dependecy. You know the ones where their parents were getting some kind of public assistance, and they are now getting public assistance, not trying to make life better for themselves or their family members, by attending school. The ones who have maybe five (5) or six (6) different children by five or six different men.

Is this what we have become...a nation of dependency? When do we tell people that they need to be responsible for their choices? Can we tell them today?

Have a great day,

L. for Love

Where Did The "Love" Go? Day 112

Happy Friday.

I hope you have a wonderful, properous, and peaceful day. I wish you love, and happiness.

Years past, Black people use to love each other. But today, with all of the Black on Black crime, and senseless killing, you can conclude the opposite. Where has all of the love gone? Why do Blacks commit the most heinous crimes on eachother?

I will critically attempt to shed some light on a dismal problem in order to prevaricate the truth, that plagues our communities toay.

Slavery- the condition of a slave; bondage.
Love-a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person;a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend.

Brief History:

Nat Turner had a religious zeal and a belief that he was the "chosen one" to free himself and his slave brethren. This 31 year old preacher to the slaves devised a plan of "terror and devastation." His organized revolt became America's most famous and violent act involving slave resistance. On August 21, 1831, Nat Turner and six other slaves killed Turner's plantation master and his family in Southampton County, Virginia. Turner increased his supporting band of slaves as they went about killing a total of 60 white slave owners, including their wives and children. Federal and Virginia state troopers encountered the roving band of slaves and killed most of those in rebellion. Other slaves not connected to the rebellion were also killed. An estimate of over 100 slaves were killed, but Nat Turner escaped. He was hunted down as he hid out in the swamps for almost three months. He was finally captured and executed on October 30, 1831. (B.David Swartz Memorial Library)

In the antebellum South, slavery provided the economic foundation that supported the dominant planter ruling class. Under slavery the structure of white supremacy was hierarchical and patriarchal, resting on male privilege and masculinist honor, entrenched economic power, and raw force. Black people necessarily developed their sense of identity, family relations, communal values, religion, and to an impressive extent their cultural autonomy by exploiting contradictions and opportunities within a complex fabric of paternalistic give-and-take. The working relationships and sometimes tacit expectations and obligations between slave and slave holder made possible a functional, and in some cases highly profitable, economic system.
-- Academic Affairs Library, The University of North Carolina at Chapel

"African American women had to endure the threat and the practice of sexual exploitation. There were no safeguards to protect them from being sexually stalked, harassed, or raped, or to be used as long-term concubines by masters and overseers. The abuse was widespread, as the men with authority took advantage of their situation. Even if a woman seemed agreeable to the situation, in reality she had no choice. Slave men, for their part, were often powerless to protect the women they loved.

Slaves resisted their treatment in innumerable ways. They slowed down their work pace, disabled machinery, feigned sickness, destroyed crops. They argued and fought with their masters and overseers. Many stole livestock, other food, or valuables. Some learned to read and write, a practice forbidden by law. Some burned forests and buildings. Others killed their masters outright -- some by using weapons, others by putting poison in their food. Some slaves comitted suicide or mutilated themselves to ruin their property value. Subtly or overtly, enslaved African Americans found ways to sabotage the system in which they lived.

Enslaved African Americans also resisted by forming community within the plantation setting. This was a tremendous undertaking for people whose lives were ruled by domination and forced labor. Slaves married, had children, and worked hard to keep their families together. In their quarters they were able to let down the masks they had to wear for whites. There, black men, women, and children developed an underground culture through which they affirmed their humanity. They gathered in the evenings to tell stories, sing, and make secret plans. House servants would come down from the "big house" and give news of the master and mistress, or keep people laughing with their imitations of the whites." (Africans in America)

Present Day Mental Slavery:

SEVERAL recent studies have garnered wide attention for reconfirming the tragic disconnection of millions of black youths from the American mainstream. But they also highlighted another crisis: the failure of social scientists to adequately explain the problem, and their inability to come up with any effective strategy to deal with it. (New York Times)

Too many Blacks have succumb to the povery mentality. Too many are not focused on education. They are more focused on "bling", the opposite sex, and having a good time. Living for the present, and forgetting about the future mentality. Black teenagers are more violent. Just this morning, I heard on the news that an elderfly lady in Miami area was stabbed more than 60 times for five dollars ($5.00). I reinterate, a life was taken for $5.00. What in the h%&$ is going on? Why have so many Black people resorted to violence, as thie way of articulating their position?

If you know, can you share the answer with me? Where did the Love go?

Have a great day,

L. for Love

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-Is the Dream DEAD? Day 111

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.)

Happy Wednesday.

I hope you had a wonderful holiday weekend. Ours was absolutely wonderful. But we were and still are all very much affected and dismayed by the catastrophe in Haiti. Moreover, we are doing what we can by supporting it economically and sending what needed supplies we can.

We will continue to lift all of the Haitian people up. We pray for you Haiti, and all of the men and women that are giving so much of themselves to help.

Moreover, this past weekend, we celebrated Dr. Martin Luther king's birthday. As we know, it is a national holiday. Hooray. But what does it all mean? Who was Dr. King, and what were his philosophies? What were his dreams and aspirations?

About Dr. King:

According to Wiki, "Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968) was an American clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the African-American civil rights movement. His main legacy was to secure progress on civil rights in the United States, and he has become a human rights icon: King is recognized as a martyr by two Christian churches. A Baptist minister, King became a civil rights activist early in his career. He led the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott and helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, serving as its first president. King's efforts led to the 1963 March on Washington, where King delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. There, he raised public consciousness of the civil rights movement and established himself as one of the greatest orators in U.S. history.
In 1964, King became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his work to end racial segregation and racial discrimination through civil disobedience and other non-violent means. By the time of his death in 1968, he had refocused his efforts on ending poverty and opposing the Vietnam War, both from a religious perspective. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1977 and Congressional Gold Medal in 2004; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was established as a U.S. national holiday in 1986."

Education

Growing up in Atlanta, King attended Booker T. Washington High School. He skipped ninth and twelfth grade, and entered Morehouse College at age fifteen without formally graduating from high school. In 1948, he graduated from Morehouse with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology, and enrolled in Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Pennsylvania, from which he graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1951. King then began doctoral studies in systematic theology at Boston University and received his Doctor of Philosophy on June 5, 1955, with a dissertation on "A Comparison of the Conceptions of God in the Thinking of Paul Tillich and Henry Nelson Wieman."

A True Comparative Analysis:

"Bill Cosby, now ranked by blacks as one of the people they admire most, according to the Pew Research survey, has been traveling across the country, visiting black churches and organizations, lacerating poor black parents: "I am talking about these people who cry when their son is standing there in an orange suit [prison garb]. Where were you when he was 2? Where were you when he was 12? Where were you when he was 18, and how come you didn't know that he had a pistol? And where is his father?"

"You know how whites used to clutch their purses in the elevator whenever a black teenager stepped in," says Natalie Brown, who works with poor blacks here through the local Urban League. "Now blacks do it, too."(The Wall Street Journal)

Lastly, " Why is the black grad rate so low? Don't make excuses for it like "the government, the racist policy of separate but equal, no money going to the underperforming schools". The US government spends more for education in public schools than in the past why are they failing? Be honest and give your opinion why black students are performing lower than any other group to grad from City public schools. Is it because education is not stressed in the urban black community? Is it because many come from single parent homes with absent parents? Is the call of the street stronger than the call to get an education? Put it all out there... What do YOU think?" (Media Take Out.com)

What would Dr. King think if he were alive?

Have a great day,


L. for Love

Haiti-Let's Help NOW...............What IF?-Day110

Happy Thursday. Our beloved Haiti was hit by a massive earthquake. The quake that hit the country was over 7.0 on the ricter scale. Can you fathom?

Can you fathom losing all of your loved ones in a matter of minutes? Can you fathom losing all of your belongings that took a lifetime to accummulate in a matter of minutes? Can you imagine yourself dead and gone, without anytime to plan?

What if? What if it were YOUR home country or even the United States? Would you think differently about the earthquake?

Can I answer this question in complete honesty? Of course YOU would want things differently. You would want help sooner. You would want other countries to come to your aid. You would want to find your love ones alive in the massive piles of debris.

Do you think any different than the people of Haiti? Do they deserve any less?

The answer to both of these questions, is a resounding NO.

Haiti. Who are the Haitian people?

"Haiti's regional, historical, and ethnolinguistic position is unique for several reasons. It was the first independent nation in Latin America, the first post-colonial independent black-led nation in the world, and the only nation whose independence was gained as part of a successful slave rebellion. Despite having common cultural links with its Hispano-Caribbean neighbors, Haiti is the only predominantly Francophone independent nation in the Americas, and one of only two (along with Canada) that designate French as an official language; the other French-speaking areas are all overseas départements, or collectivités, of France.

The French government changed and the legislature began to rethink its decisions on slavery in the colonies. After Toussaint L'ouverture created a separatist constitution, Napoleon Bonaparte sent an expedition of 20,000 men under the command of his brother-in-law, General Charles Leclerc, to retake the island. Leclerc's mission was to oust L'ouverture and restore slavery. The French achieved some victories, but within a few months, yellow fever had killed most of the French soldiers. Leclerc invited Toussaint L'ouverture to a parley, kidnapped him and sent him to France, where he was imprisoned at Fort de Joux. He died there in 1803 of exposure and tuberculosis." (Wikipedia)

Please take time and help this country that is in dire need of asistance. Please donate whatever you can, and help in anyway that you can. I will do my part as well.

I know if it were me, I would want someone to help. What if it were YOU, and YOUR family?

PLEASE HELP HAITI. Have a wonderful day.

L. for Love

The Day My Mouth Stood Still-Day 109

Happy Tuesday.

I hope this day is the best day of the beginning of your new attitude.

It is very important to consistently work on self-improvement. This the cornerstone to comprehending that we have to continue to improve. I use to believe that I had it all together. I am considerate of others, respectful of my elders, and very outgoing. However, I had to learn to use my ears more than my mouth.

I remember vivdly when I was much younger that I would always do most of the talking. Regardless to whom I were speaking, I would talk, talk, and talk more. People would normally comment on my enthusiasm for life, and the project I was working on at the time. But I would seldom, if at all, listen. In fact most of the people that I engaged, hardly got in a word edge wise. Oh. I had so much information share. I wanted to make sure that my goals and aspirations were clearly understood so that whomever, I were speaking to, at the time, would understand that I was going places.

But the one day my mouth stood still, I learned that it is important to speak less and listen MORE. I had met this gentleman. He was professional, and had an enormous amount of money, in other words, he was very well off. He liked me very much. He would take me out to dinners in his fine car. He would always dine first class. He would be given the best service, and tables by his business associates in the restaurants we visited. But one particular day, we were out dancingg, and enjoying ourselves, when he began to speak to me. But I was into my own world, trying to tell him what was on my mind. When, I missed some of what he said, and this gentleman walked off the dance floor, and I never seen him again, after that evening. (True story):(

This is truly the day my mouth stood still. I looked around for him, and he was GONE. I was embarrassed, hurt, and disappointed. However, I was more disappointed with myself, because I did not listen to this man. I had my own agenda, and I wanted to be in charge, and I wanted him to listen to me. Not the other way around.

He spoke. I spoke. He left. I lost.

Now I know that talking is good sometimes. But it is much more important to listen to others. I have learned so much more by listening, closing my mouth, and giving others the opportunity to express themselves.

Now I share this life skill with my daughter, because she is also a "great communicator". She loves to talk. But I tell her. "Sweetie, I know you have so much to share, but why don't you listen a little more. Give others a turn to speak, and you sit back and listen." Well, she does not really like this way of communicating. I can tell she would much rather speak than listen. But of course, I want her to learn while she is young that she has two ears for a reason. That she should use her ears much more than her mouth.

But now when I go into a business meeting, or anywhere else for that matter, I go in ready to ........LISTEN. I do little taking unless I am asked a question. I rarely volunteer any information. I just sit back, and listen. And you know what? I learn so much more than I ever did when I had diarhea at the mouth:) My mouth was running off, and I had little, if any, control of it.

But today is another day. My life is going into another direction. "I can see clearly now, because the rain is gone." I have so much to look forward to. It is as though, I have been given another chance to make life happen, and find the happiness and peace that I have always wanted.

I love life, I love my family, and I love you.

Make this a great day, and remember, LISTEN today.

L. for Love

How Do We Learn to Focus? Day 108

Happy Monday.

I hope you had a wonderful weekend. My weekend was challenging and wonderful simultaneously. My car went out again, not good. I have gotten a new starter put on it, and it still will NOT start. I had another so called "mechanic" look at it, and he told me that my ignition switch was "bad". So today, I will order a new ignition switch from the car dealership. I really hope this is the last thing that need to be repaired, because I am ready

Moreover, I went to various meetings this past weekend. I am working on somethings, and I am very excited about the people that I have the opportunity to work with. We are building a team, and success is our mission. We will not be intimidated, and/or dismayed. We will stay the course, and continue to move forward in order to accomplish our goals.

But I am curious about how do someone learn to focus. How do we train our mind to focus?

Focus-a central point, as of attraction, attention, or activity.

According to Steve Pavlina:

"A key to the intention-manifestation model is that you must keep your thoughts focused on what you want and avoid thinking about what you don’t want. Even if you’re skeptical about the power of intention, it shouldn’t be hard to see that a disciplined mind brings benefits. Improved mental discipline is sure to be a useful skill regardless of your current model of reality. It’s hard enough to achieve goals via direct action if your mind is cluttered with negative or distracting thoughts. But with intention-manifestation, it’s nearly impossible." (Steve Pavlina)

Steve goes on to ask, "Even as you read this article now, what other thoughts are passing through your mind? Is 100% of your attention focused on reading this, or is your consciousness split? Is any part of your mind churning over work-related issues, emotional stress, physical discomfort or hunger, noise from the next room, or past or future events? It’s often the case that less than 50% of our attention is directed to the task at hand. That isn’t focus — that’s blur."

It is clear and cannot be disputed that my daughter and I have problems with staying focused. However, what can we do to get better is my question. As I researched this topic, I found that there are somethings that we can do to give ourselves more control over our own thoughts, and attention span. So her are a few suggestions from Mr. Pavlins:

"Giving up TV. If you want to stay focused on what you do want, it would be wise to start blocking sources that flood your mind with thoughts of what you don’t want. TV is filled with negative images, especially TV news programs, so it’s a prime killer of positive intentions. I’ve noticed that after doing without it for about four weeks now, my thinking has become noticeably more focused. I’m technically still doing my 30-day trial, but I see no reason to re-addict myself when the trial ends.

Consciously focusing attention on the task at hand. Throughout the day I try to perform a few tasks with 100% of my attention on what I’m doing. When lifting weights at the gym, I focus on the current muscle group I’m training. When eating a meal, I focus on the taste and texture of the food. When driving I focus all my attention on controlling the car. This means staying in the present moment, not thinking about the end of the workout, the work I’ll be doing after the meal, or my driving destination. This not only improves my concentration, but the secondary benefit is that it keeps my mind off of would-be negative thoughts that might creep in while I’m not paying attention. If I’m thinking about the weight I’m lifting, I know I’m not accidentally thinking about financial lack."(Pavlina)

As can be seen, some of his suggestions sound eerily familiar. I wrote about the affects of television earlier, and mention the devasting affects it has on ours, and the minds of our children. But if we are serious about controlling our own mind and helping our children, we have to make some difficult decisions. Most of the decisions we make will NOT be popular. But hey, who seeking popularity? NOT I.

Control-to exercise restraint or direction over; dominate; command.
Train-to develop or form the habits, thoughts, or behavior of (a child or other person) by discipline and instruction.
Attention-the act or faculty of attending, esp. by directing the mind to an object.

I am more concerned with making sure that we accomplish our goals, and anything else we set our minds to. However, we must have control of our own thoughts, and this dominion starts by learning how to focus. We must train our minds. This is the ONLY way to have dominion over our own minds.

Do you have complete control of your mind? Can you focus for a significant period of time? What about your children?

GET CONTROL NOW.

Have a great work week,

L. for Love

A Positive Mental Attitude-Day 107

"Remember to "Keep your mind on the things you want and off the things you don't want. Remember the old proverb "Be very careful what you set your heart on, for you will surely achieve it". (Napoleon Hill)


Happy Friday.

I hope you have an absolutely wonderful day, as well as weekend. May your dreams come into fruition as you give them life through your cultivating them. Dreams are similar to plants, in that, we must cultivate them. They must have specific attention to bring the thoughts into relaity. But have no doubt, dreams are your eventual reality.

Dreams-a succession of images, thoughts, or emotions passing through the mind during sleep;an aspiration; goal; aim.

Reality-the state or quality of being real.

Fruition-attainment of anything desired; realization; accomplishment.

Cultivate-to prepare and work on;to promote or improve the growth of (a plant, crop, etc.) by labor and attention.

It is critical that we first understand that we must have goals. What is a goal?

Goal-the result or achievement toward which effort is directed; aim; end.

According to Napolean Hill principles for a success life, authors Lecter and Reid say that:

"there are many things you cannot control," the factors critical to success are within an individuals' control: namely, "your mind and your attitude." They go on to point how how important it is to know: "about vision, opportunity, taking action, following through and more, and applying it." (Three Feet From Gold, Leichert and Reid)

More often than not the ingredients for success lies withing each of us. "Most often the answers we seek are inside each of us, but it often takes someone else to show us the direction in which to proceed."(Napolean Hill)

The time is NOW to accomplish our goals. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not promise to us. But today is the present we have to build on. That is why it is called present. It is a gift that we have now. Let's use for goodness sake.

I love you all. Let's make 2010 the best year of our lives.

Have a productive and loving day,

L. for Love

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sablady1.rss

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sablady1.rss

You Make Your Own Reality-Day106

Happy Thursday.

I hope this day is one of your best days of 2010. Go out and make it happen.

I have been assiduous, working on my personal affairs that need improving. When one day my friend was watching a program on his television, and it suddenly dawned on me. With so many reality shows being forced on the American audience. It came to me that we do not need reality shows we make our own reality.

I was conversating with this same friend of mine, and I shared with him that most Americans sit back, and watch other people living their lives. These "reality show"s are nothing more than certain people, most celebrities, who are living life in the fast lane, and getting paid for it, opening their lives for entertainment purposes. While on the other hand, the unsuspecting consumer is watching others live their lives, while their lives past right on by. And the days keep creeping by.

Does this make any sense to you?

I should hope not. Why would anyone want to sit back on their sofa, chair or whatever piece furniture he/she may use, and watch others "live" and their lives die a slow death? It is unbelievable to me. Most people do not take the time to actually think this through. ok. Let us break this down to it smallest denominator.

The factor: The reality shows. Whichever. It does not really make a different, which one we focus on for our limited purpose . They are all basically the same. The premise is of some celebrity living his/her life in the public domain. While the public sit back and be entertained. We actually consciously choose to sit and watch people live their lives. Is this not the basic premise of reality shows?

Reality-the state or quality of being real;real things, facts, or events taken as a whole.

Life-the condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic objects and dead organisms, being manifested by growth through metabolism, reproduction, and the power of adaptation to environment through changes originating internally.

Limited-onfined within limits; restricted or circumscribed.

Limit-he final, utmost, or furthest boundary or point as to extent, amount, continuance, procedure.

Watch-to be alertly on the lookout, look attentively, or observe, as to see what comes, is done, or happens: to contemplate or regard mentally.

Why is the American audience so interested in the lives of other people, or more specifically celebrities? Can anyone tell me this? I find it apalling and insulting that the producers of these reality shows can think so little of the American audience. It is as though we have nothing better to do than watch other people's lives while ours are put on the back burner.

Are you interested in watching some of these rich celebrities prance around in their limos and fancy "name brand" clothes reminding us of what we do not have? The "thigs" that we could have if only we would get our behinds off of the couch, bed, chair or whatever you sit on to watch these programs, up and live our own lives. Do we really need to be reminded that we have a life, and our family need us? Do I need to remind you that your children need you? Remember they have homework, or need to eat, and what about the clothes that need to be washed.

In other words, we have our own lives to live. Remember? I am NOT interested in watching others live the good life while, on the other hand, I struggle dailey just to survive. So you tell me who should be the audience for the reality of YOUR life?


Have a great day. Live your Life.

L. for Love (p.s-that's my daughter in the picture above-interviewing) Making her reality:)

A New Direction -Day 106

Happy Wednesday.

I am so happy that this year is off with a "bang". We are making changes, and we are happy about the choices that we are making. Some of our changes are difficult, but if we are to accomplish what we have set out to accomplish, then we must continue down the road, in a new direction.

Did you catch on that I have been using "we" instead of "I"? I have a very good friend, who God placed in my life. He has thus far been a blessing to my daughter anf me.

I don't have family that I know of here in Florida, and therefore, it came be challenging, with very little support. However, it is important to have "good people" around you, that you can claim as family.. We are meeting very good people who are "on the move" here, and they have invited my daughter and me along for the ride. What ride you may ask? The ride to Success at the corner of Not Looking Back.:)

We are headed in a new direction. A direction where people are "focused" and clear in their objectives. They know where they want to go. People who have "success" for breakfast and "accomplishments" for lunch. You may ask what these same people have for dinner? Well think about it. If you have not come up with the answer by now, it is "money". These people understand that money is NOT a cure all, however, you can enjoy your family and life so much more without the worries that economic stress can bring.

We love being in these people's presence. The energy we get from our new Florida family is unbelievable. When they speak they prefer to use terms such as "win", "succeed", "accomplishments", like the words were planted in their mouths. They know NO boundaries, and accept no failures, as defeat.

They believe that life is worth living, and people are worth helping. I love it.

In addition, I am speaking to many members of my family in Detroit, and I am loving it. We are chatting via FaceBook. I love them. I never want to be alienated from most of them again. LOL.

Have a wonderful day,

L. for Love

This is how my, I mean Our, year is going thus far, and I am a happy camper.

And The Beat Goes On/Happy New Year-Day 105

Happy Monday.

I hope you brought this year in with a "banging attitude". One that speaks of "moving forward", and "challenging yourself". This is what I did. My daughter, my close friend and myself, brought 2010 in praying together. We first laid out our goals for the new year, and we prayed that we will stay on course, and execute the work that go along with goal setting.

As I forementioned in another writing, my son brought his new year in with his dad, brothers, and some members of my family, in Detroit, Michigan. He was elated. He shared with me how he saw various family members that he had not seen in many years. I was very happy for him...and myself.

Moreover, I made up my mind that I need to first set some goals for 2010. Then I devised a plan as to how I plan to eventually realize these goals. No doubt, I must take the action needed to bring my dreams to fruition. I love it. Because in "2010, we will win."

I will share with you a few of my goals. I am focusing on myself, being a better person, on the inside (and out:), family becomes an automatic priority, and I am working diligently on my financial predicament. I will become more financially secure.

I will not describe to you my specific plan of action as to how I plan to achieve these goals. I just believe that if I talk or share too much, I am less likely to execute the work. I decided that I would much rather work and produce the desired results as opposed to talking about them. Just telling you what I plan to do, is NOT enough for me. I want my action to speak for me, as I write my entries and share these things with you, as the days, weeks, months, and eventually the 2010 year, come to a close. And you and I know that it will come to an end. So I decided to "JUST DO IT".

I am taking action.

Action- an act that one consciously wills and that may be characterized by physical or mental activity:

Goals-the result or achievement toward which effort is directed; aim; end.

Achieve-to bring to a successful end; carry through; accomplish:to bring about an intended result; accomplish some purpose or effect.

Focus-a central point, as of attraction, attention, or activity.

Moreover, as the definitions above clearly point out that I must be focused to bring my actions to a successful end. So to sum up my unspecified goals that I share with you today,,,,,,,I am now focused on getting my family life in order. I am now focused on my financial condition, or lack thereof. I am focused on being a better person overall. I am focused on continuing to learn as much as I can.

Education NEVER stops, as long as we have breath in our bodies. We can never ever learn everything there is here on this earth to learn. So what this means is that we are constantly changing, hopefully for the better.

THank you 2010, as I will win, and I plan to bring others with me. Success is not success if you are alone. Success is for you to enjoy with others. I want to always help others become successful, so help me God.:)

Make it a successful year,

L. for Love