We Are What?
- A recent column based on a study states that fewer Americans are claiming an organized religion. He goes on to give numbers that fewer people claim to be Christian, etc. He then states that the scandals in various religious groups are most responsible for this downward trend.
I have a different view on that. Perhaps the downward cycle of people claiming religion is a direct representation of the downward trend that society is clearly going into. Fewer people subscribe to a faith, more people subscribe to lawlessness and anarchy as we are witnessing in this day unlike any other.
Rather than looking at religion as the bad guy, the columnist is excusing the desertion of a facet of life that is designed to bring about a more peaceful, positive focus on this challenging world in which we live.
Might I suggest, that rather than encourage people to just join a religion, how about people just try Jesus? Being a Christian is so much more than having a religion. It is to change one's life into making it into that of the only begotten Son of God. It is not a religion that people need, it is a change of lifestyle and even that of life. Try Jesus.
Are We supposed to be Stupid or What?
- The shamockery that is the Bailout for the Finance Industry continues to irritate me. I'm not going to harp on how Congress in 2008 just gave the finance companies and CEOs basically vaultfuls of money with no oversight. But now we see, that AIG, ground zero of this economic mess, is still giving away $165+ million dollars in bonuses. Am I supposed to be ok with that? Are the American people supposed to be ok with that? Are we supposed to be that stupid?
The autoworkers' union was told to give up concessions or watch their employers go into bankruptcy. Yet and still, AIG can say "We had to honor our contracts which called for bonuses." Somebody needs to go to AIG and shut them down! President Obama is calling for the Treasury Department to do whatever can be done to either stop the bonuses or stop the payments to AIG.
AIG, for those who don't know, was the company whose risky investing started the domino effect known as this recession we are in. Their methods in trading should call for heads to roll, not bonuses to be doled out. It is sheer insanity that they say they cannot do anything BUT pay the previously agreed to bonuses. They should either pay back the money owed ASAP (with penalties), or they should just watch their company go under.
We're not that stupid.
Obvious Book Plug of The Day:
- For me, to write is to live. It took some time for me to really enjoy the process of putting thoughts. ideas, et. al on paper. But now, this gift is more than just a gift. It makes me feel so good to be able to express myself in this fashion. Let me paraphrase my man Train. When you can do your thing and share it with others, it's a beautiful thing indeed.
I may not be like Jordan on the court, Ashe on the circuit or Tiger on the links. But man, I tell you, when I can get on the keyboard and bang out what's in my mind, it does my mind good like a drug, my body good like milk, and my spirit good overall. Soon enough, the world will be able to see what God ha given me the ability to do and when that happens, it's shouting time for real. But being a good Christian, I'm not going to wait until then, I'll shout and praise Him in advance!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Monday, March 16, 2009
TOTAL CHAOS, NO MASS CONFUSION
TOTAL CHAOS, NO MASS CONFUSION
- And now, we get another challenger for the Big Seat in the Manoogian, as of Saturday Night. Councilman Kwame Kenyatta announced his candidacy for the position of mayor of the Big D. So that makes Kenyatta, Mrs. Conyers (who's trying to slip her name out as a write-in candidate), as well as the winner of the run-off election in May, the winner of said election in May, countless others who will throw their names in the hat between now & August, and a partidge in a pear tree.
Mr. Kenyatta said in an interview that he will be the type of mayor that can connect with the people in a way unlike any since Coleman Young. Wow. C. Young did not always connect with people, he was devisive to the Metro area and became the epitome of a career politician whose individual agenda at times, subverted the best for the majority. I'm not sure if that is the best for Detroit in 2009. We shall see.
I'm sorry, call me a rapidly developing cynic re: Politics in the Big Mo, but the position of mayor should have such a high bar attached to it, that only those of the finest records and public acclaim, should even consider themselves worthy of putting together the right campaign for it. It seems to be kinda cheapened when anyone with the fee to enter/names on petitions or whatever, throw their proverbial hats in the ring.
I have no beef with Mr. Kenyatta, do not know him, and cannot say if his record on the Council makes him worthy of the biggest job in the city. I do hope that if he does run, and win, that he does he very level best to return the D to its place in the country and world. I'm not sure if lookling back is the best way to go forward.
She's Out & About
- Christine Beatty was released from jail this morning after serving 67 days in Wayne County. I can say after having everything shake down after the trial that started it all, her behavior on the witness stand was Ground Zero. I can't help but think that if she had not been so obtuse and outright defiant, things may have gone differently. IMO, I said, if I was a lawyer, I'd be most likely to keep digging too, with her antics on the stand. Little did I know at the time, that she and Kwame knew about the text mesgs, etc.
But that was then, I digressed. She seemed so very humble upon her release, but still showed some attitude by the amount of media covering her at the jail this morning. She seemed anxious ot get home to see her children, no issue there. She did seem surprised and even agitated that movement was a little difficult. However, this was a big story and coverage was reflective of that. I think that she was hoping for a little less pub on this.
Here's hoping that she can reshape her life. Being divorced (with children), a felon, barred from getting into the legal profession and attached to a major scandal will be tough barriers to overcome. With much work and a renewed spirit, the possiblity is there. She has her 2nd chance now, I hope she can get the kind of sweetheart gig Kwame got. I've said from the start that both of them should get the exact same treatment. Step up (again), Mr. Karmonos.
Are U Ready?
- In the words of Flavor Flav, "Yeeeeeah Boyeeee!" Big ups, PE. The Madness is ready to begin. I'm not gonna trip on teams that shouldn't have gotten in (Arizona, take a bow). Those types of teams usually get dropped by the 1st weekend anyway. The Tournament will be underway Thursday @ 12, and it will be on and crackin for 3 weekends.
My Spartans are #2 in the Midwest and of course, people are picking Louisville to run through the region. All I can say is that to beat a good pressing team, it helps to have a dynamic point guard (Kalin Lucas) and a runing team to take advantage of the opportunities the press creates. With those horses, Izzo can make it happen. All I can say is, the regional final in Indy could look like the 500 with all of the running expected to take place.
My pick is, and has been for the entire season, UNC. Too many horses, too much firepower, too much experience, too good a coach, too much of everything. As long as Duke does not win, I will be happy. If UNC or State wins, I will be estatic. I expect to be smiling come 3 weeks from now in one way or another.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- I am headed into a conference designed to bring about some major decisions re: You're A Winner! (In Jesus Christ). The delays will be removed, the gas pedal will be hit, and some real progress will be made. In this climate, things are moving slower than expected, but into each life, some rain must fall.
I am no less confident in God's ability to make things happen than ever, and I am so excited about what He intends to do. In any case, I hope to list some progress very soon. His grace is sufficient for all that we stand in need of, so give Him the praise!
- And now, we get another challenger for the Big Seat in the Manoogian, as of Saturday Night. Councilman Kwame Kenyatta announced his candidacy for the position of mayor of the Big D. So that makes Kenyatta, Mrs. Conyers (who's trying to slip her name out as a write-in candidate), as well as the winner of the run-off election in May, the winner of said election in May, countless others who will throw their names in the hat between now & August, and a partidge in a pear tree.
Mr. Kenyatta said in an interview that he will be the type of mayor that can connect with the people in a way unlike any since Coleman Young. Wow. C. Young did not always connect with people, he was devisive to the Metro area and became the epitome of a career politician whose individual agenda at times, subverted the best for the majority. I'm not sure if that is the best for Detroit in 2009. We shall see.
I'm sorry, call me a rapidly developing cynic re: Politics in the Big Mo, but the position of mayor should have such a high bar attached to it, that only those of the finest records and public acclaim, should even consider themselves worthy of putting together the right campaign for it. It seems to be kinda cheapened when anyone with the fee to enter/names on petitions or whatever, throw their proverbial hats in the ring.
I have no beef with Mr. Kenyatta, do not know him, and cannot say if his record on the Council makes him worthy of the biggest job in the city. I do hope that if he does run, and win, that he does he very level best to return the D to its place in the country and world. I'm not sure if lookling back is the best way to go forward.
She's Out & About
- Christine Beatty was released from jail this morning after serving 67 days in Wayne County. I can say after having everything shake down after the trial that started it all, her behavior on the witness stand was Ground Zero. I can't help but think that if she had not been so obtuse and outright defiant, things may have gone differently. IMO, I said, if I was a lawyer, I'd be most likely to keep digging too, with her antics on the stand. Little did I know at the time, that she and Kwame knew about the text mesgs, etc.
But that was then, I digressed. She seemed so very humble upon her release, but still showed some attitude by the amount of media covering her at the jail this morning. She seemed anxious ot get home to see her children, no issue there. She did seem surprised and even agitated that movement was a little difficult. However, this was a big story and coverage was reflective of that. I think that she was hoping for a little less pub on this.
Here's hoping that she can reshape her life. Being divorced (with children), a felon, barred from getting into the legal profession and attached to a major scandal will be tough barriers to overcome. With much work and a renewed spirit, the possiblity is there. She has her 2nd chance now, I hope she can get the kind of sweetheart gig Kwame got. I've said from the start that both of them should get the exact same treatment. Step up (again), Mr. Karmonos.
Are U Ready?
- In the words of Flavor Flav, "Yeeeeeah Boyeeee!" Big ups, PE. The Madness is ready to begin. I'm not gonna trip on teams that shouldn't have gotten in (Arizona, take a bow). Those types of teams usually get dropped by the 1st weekend anyway. The Tournament will be underway Thursday @ 12, and it will be on and crackin for 3 weekends.
My Spartans are #2 in the Midwest and of course, people are picking Louisville to run through the region. All I can say is that to beat a good pressing team, it helps to have a dynamic point guard (Kalin Lucas) and a runing team to take advantage of the opportunities the press creates. With those horses, Izzo can make it happen. All I can say is, the regional final in Indy could look like the 500 with all of the running expected to take place.
My pick is, and has been for the entire season, UNC. Too many horses, too much firepower, too much experience, too good a coach, too much of everything. As long as Duke does not win, I will be happy. If UNC or State wins, I will be estatic. I expect to be smiling come 3 weeks from now in one way or another.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- I am headed into a conference designed to bring about some major decisions re: You're A Winner! (In Jesus Christ). The delays will be removed, the gas pedal will be hit, and some real progress will be made. In this climate, things are moving slower than expected, but into each life, some rain must fall.
I am no less confident in God's ability to make things happen than ever, and I am so excited about what He intends to do. In any case, I hope to list some progress very soon. His grace is sufficient for all that we stand in need of, so give Him the praise!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Short and Sweet
Short & Sweet
- Today's post will be Short & Sweet. Nothing too detailed today, but enough to whet your appetite hopefully for more.
Don't Worry, Be Happy
- Believe you me, I understand that today's climate economically, socially, etc. is shaky. Not since the great earthquake of 06 has the land been this unstable. However, I must say that today's society does not only feed on negativity, it thrives on it! It's like Ghostbusters 2 (The Classic, lol) where NYC and its residents could only get excited about the worst of the worst.
Well, The D is truly there now. Everything, it seems, on the news is negative. So much so that my Pastor, E.N. Jennings, Sr. had the church to avoid the news for a week. Believe you me, it does the spirit good. With nothing but layoffs, bailouts, crime, scandals, confrontations, drug use, stds on the rise, et. al., the mind of man needs to not only avoid the negative, but also someway, somehow, embrace the positive.
I know that sounds like some Bobby Mc Ferrin stuff there, but for real, Think Positively and Grow Rich. Things Will Change! But they must first start in the Mind.
Where's Martha?
- Everyday, the Clueless Council gives us something else to laugh at. This week, Martha Reeves said that Jay Leno's free concert for unemployed workers in the detroit area should not be @ the Palace (Donated for free, I may add), but in Detroit.
You see, Leno made the faux paus of talking about Detroit for the concert, but then set the concert @ the Palce of Auburn Hills. Again, the Palace was donated. As this will be the weekend of the Final Four, the larger Detroit venues are not readily available. Madam Reeves does not care, and then not only insisted Leno do the show in Detroit, but then had the temerity to tell him, Auburn Hills is 90 minutes away! I've worked in Auburn Hills for 4 years, I'm sorry, but the drive there from downtown Detroit is 45 minutes, tops.
Besides, Leno is doing a benefit for workers in the area, regardless of how close to Detroit they are. Martha, it is ok if he donates his gift for free at the Palace. Get a clue and focus on the bigger issues, madam Councilwoman.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- God has called you into His Marvelous light for a Purpose. Let HIM guide you, and allow you to be the ligth of the World Jesus was referring to in Matthew's Gospel. Your salvation was not just to keep you out of Hell, but so that your life and testimony would be a blessing, gift, etc. to those that you come into contact with. Even on your worst of days, you can shine into someone else's life that is immersed in the darkness of these trying times.
Be Good y'all, told you I was being short. Deuces!
- Today's post will be Short & Sweet. Nothing too detailed today, but enough to whet your appetite hopefully for more.
Don't Worry, Be Happy
- Believe you me, I understand that today's climate economically, socially, etc. is shaky. Not since the great earthquake of 06 has the land been this unstable. However, I must say that today's society does not only feed on negativity, it thrives on it! It's like Ghostbusters 2 (The Classic, lol) where NYC and its residents could only get excited about the worst of the worst.
Well, The D is truly there now. Everything, it seems, on the news is negative. So much so that my Pastor, E.N. Jennings, Sr. had the church to avoid the news for a week. Believe you me, it does the spirit good. With nothing but layoffs, bailouts, crime, scandals, confrontations, drug use, stds on the rise, et. al., the mind of man needs to not only avoid the negative, but also someway, somehow, embrace the positive.
I know that sounds like some Bobby Mc Ferrin stuff there, but for real, Think Positively and Grow Rich. Things Will Change! But they must first start in the Mind.
Where's Martha?
- Everyday, the Clueless Council gives us something else to laugh at. This week, Martha Reeves said that Jay Leno's free concert for unemployed workers in the detroit area should not be @ the Palace (Donated for free, I may add), but in Detroit.
You see, Leno made the faux paus of talking about Detroit for the concert, but then set the concert @ the Palce of Auburn Hills. Again, the Palace was donated. As this will be the weekend of the Final Four, the larger Detroit venues are not readily available. Madam Reeves does not care, and then not only insisted Leno do the show in Detroit, but then had the temerity to tell him, Auburn Hills is 90 minutes away! I've worked in Auburn Hills for 4 years, I'm sorry, but the drive there from downtown Detroit is 45 minutes, tops.
Besides, Leno is doing a benefit for workers in the area, regardless of how close to Detroit they are. Martha, it is ok if he donates his gift for free at the Palace. Get a clue and focus on the bigger issues, madam Councilwoman.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- God has called you into His Marvelous light for a Purpose. Let HIM guide you, and allow you to be the ligth of the World Jesus was referring to in Matthew's Gospel. Your salvation was not just to keep you out of Hell, but so that your life and testimony would be a blessing, gift, etc. to those that you come into contact with. Even on your worst of days, you can shine into someone else's life that is immersed in the darkness of these trying times.
Be Good y'all, told you I was being short. Deuces!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
GOODBYE & GOOD RIDDANCE?
G'DAY MATES.
* I took a few days off celebrating my birthday. Had to thank God for 38 glorious years. Even in the days and nights that I could not realize how much He was carrying me, God has at least allowed me to become cognizant of His ever-abiding presence. To all of my brothers and sisters who I grew up with that are not here today, to them and you I say, God is still good!
Goodbye & Good Riddance?
- And now the Kwame Kilpatrick era is officially over? A judge ruled just a few hours ago that former mayor Kilpatrick can go to Texas to begin his job with Covisint. We all know that the job was a gift from Peter K., owner of Compuware for the sweet deal on the Compuware Building. So Kwame takes said gig, goes to Dallas, is never heard from again, should have the restitution bill being paid on a monthly basis and all's well that ends well, right?
Here's the kicker. He has filed a $100 million lawsuit against Skytel for exposing the very text messages that caused much of the drama for the last 14 months. So a new fight has begun, where, at some point Kwame will be coming back to The D for statements, testimony and the like. It remains to be seen whether the texts are considered public property (the pagers WERE city government property) or private domain (there was an apparent understanding that private messages could be sent). In any case, my fair Detroiters, we have NOT seen or heard of the last of Kwame Malik Kilpatrick. Like a bad movie, this just keeps going on and on and ...
BTW, what is the betting line that in about 6 years, Kwame returns to The D, "reformed and matured," and ready for a new run at city politics? God help us if so.
Let's Get Ready to Rumble
- So the City Clueless Council is ready to go to court over the veto by Mayor Cockrel. This nightmare continues over Cobo Hall. If this plays out for long, regardless of the possible outcome, what are the chances that the regional authority proposition dies on the vine? And then, what exactly happens?
Are we to rely on a Council that has been so far unable to draft a workable plan to renovate the rapidly dilapidating building? And then we watch as the Rock Financial building in Novi starts to gobble up several events and the Palace or other suburban entities make headway on more events until the few events that Detroit has coming through Cobo are rendered meaningless and powerless to stop the pitiful complete washout of the "Jewel of the City?"
C'mon people! This is an utter cluster! This will not end up good for the City. The posturing of politicians with an overinflated sense of self is pathetic. There are other pressing items on the agenda. Let's not get started on the school system, police response time, dwindling tax base or any myriad of other concerns. Council! Wake up and let's get Cobo taken care of! There is only one way to handle your business, and that's to handle it.
You're All Mad!
- Thank God! It is just about that time of the year! Less than 10 days away before the start of the NCAA Tournament. The conference tourneys are going and I am getting so geeked up! My Spartans are on a warpath, looking to begin a campaign destined to end @ Ford Field for the Final Four. The UNC Tar Heels just put it on Duke, buzzer beaters are coming in from Sioux Falls and all over. Life feels good.
- In addition to the Spartans and Heels, the other Final Four teams will come from this group:
Louisville, Oklahoma, Villanova, Missouri and outside shot for LSU. Pitt will meet the wrong team in the Sweet 16, and UConn will choke in the Elite 8. Call it a hunch.
- As a lifelong sports fan, there is no better time of the year for me than the first 2 days of the Tournament. The upsets, game-winning shots and hot runs of players seemingly out of nowhere. The cats like Bryce Drew, Patty Mills, Kent State, Ed Pinckney and VCU. It's the real "Most Wonderful Time of the Year."
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- It's real simple. As Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord, with all thine heart, and lean not to thine own understanding. In all thine ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
- Trust God and He will cause for your gifts to bring you before great men!
Peace in the Middle East. I'm out like shout.
* I took a few days off celebrating my birthday. Had to thank God for 38 glorious years. Even in the days and nights that I could not realize how much He was carrying me, God has at least allowed me to become cognizant of His ever-abiding presence. To all of my brothers and sisters who I grew up with that are not here today, to them and you I say, God is still good!
Goodbye & Good Riddance?
- And now the Kwame Kilpatrick era is officially over? A judge ruled just a few hours ago that former mayor Kilpatrick can go to Texas to begin his job with Covisint. We all know that the job was a gift from Peter K., owner of Compuware for the sweet deal on the Compuware Building. So Kwame takes said gig, goes to Dallas, is never heard from again, should have the restitution bill being paid on a monthly basis and all's well that ends well, right?
Here's the kicker. He has filed a $100 million lawsuit against Skytel for exposing the very text messages that caused much of the drama for the last 14 months. So a new fight has begun, where, at some point Kwame will be coming back to The D for statements, testimony and the like. It remains to be seen whether the texts are considered public property (the pagers WERE city government property) or private domain (there was an apparent understanding that private messages could be sent). In any case, my fair Detroiters, we have NOT seen or heard of the last of Kwame Malik Kilpatrick. Like a bad movie, this just keeps going on and on and ...
BTW, what is the betting line that in about 6 years, Kwame returns to The D, "reformed and matured," and ready for a new run at city politics? God help us if so.
Let's Get Ready to Rumble
- So the City Clueless Council is ready to go to court over the veto by Mayor Cockrel. This nightmare continues over Cobo Hall. If this plays out for long, regardless of the possible outcome, what are the chances that the regional authority proposition dies on the vine? And then, what exactly happens?
Are we to rely on a Council that has been so far unable to draft a workable plan to renovate the rapidly dilapidating building? And then we watch as the Rock Financial building in Novi starts to gobble up several events and the Palace or other suburban entities make headway on more events until the few events that Detroit has coming through Cobo are rendered meaningless and powerless to stop the pitiful complete washout of the "Jewel of the City?"
C'mon people! This is an utter cluster! This will not end up good for the City. The posturing of politicians with an overinflated sense of self is pathetic. There are other pressing items on the agenda. Let's not get started on the school system, police response time, dwindling tax base or any myriad of other concerns. Council! Wake up and let's get Cobo taken care of! There is only one way to handle your business, and that's to handle it.
You're All Mad!
- Thank God! It is just about that time of the year! Less than 10 days away before the start of the NCAA Tournament. The conference tourneys are going and I am getting so geeked up! My Spartans are on a warpath, looking to begin a campaign destined to end @ Ford Field for the Final Four. The UNC Tar Heels just put it on Duke, buzzer beaters are coming in from Sioux Falls and all over. Life feels good.
- In addition to the Spartans and Heels, the other Final Four teams will come from this group:
Louisville, Oklahoma, Villanova, Missouri and outside shot for LSU. Pitt will meet the wrong team in the Sweet 16, and UConn will choke in the Elite 8. Call it a hunch.
- As a lifelong sports fan, there is no better time of the year for me than the first 2 days of the Tournament. The upsets, game-winning shots and hot runs of players seemingly out of nowhere. The cats like Bryce Drew, Patty Mills, Kent State, Ed Pinckney and VCU. It's the real "Most Wonderful Time of the Year."
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- It's real simple. As Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord, with all thine heart, and lean not to thine own understanding. In all thine ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
- Trust God and He will cause for your gifts to bring you before great men!
Peace in the Middle East. I'm out like shout.
Friday, March 6, 2009
TGIF
TGIF!
Finally!
- It is finally Friday, and I am glad to see the week go out! The news clips of the City Council (most specifically the 4 Divas) singing old church hymns was enough to both laugh my head off and also shake my head in dusgust (You try doing both at the same time). It is sad that everyday Detroit has to find itself in the punchline of a comedian's routine because of what is done by the political leadership.
It is like a man who shoots himself in the foot get mad at the people who notice how much blood is being lost and then cusses them out for noticing the damage that was done. Get it together, people, dare I say, leaders.
Finally (II)!
- My MSU Spartans are again the champions of the Big Ten, outright, no sharing. It is another feather in the cap of Coach Tom Izzo and the brave 12 from East Lansing. It is the first Big Ten title in about 8 years, since 2001. It makes you say wow, why has it taken so long, but also job well done.
- The Spartans are still an outside shot to get a Number 1 seed for the upcoming NCAA Tournament. If they go on and win the Big Ten Tournament after the season, they will be no less than a #2, and depending on how everything else shakes down, a #1 to go along with North Carolina, UConn/Pitt (whoever wins the Big Beast) and probably Oklahoma (depending on how the Blake Griffin injury is viewed).
- All of Sparta herself (I mean East Lansing and her sons) are basking in the continued climb that Izzo and Co. are approaching since this team is clearly the most talented one since the championship team of 2000. Good luck fellas.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- The key to being blessed as a Child of God is to walk in your calling. Do what God has called you to do. Do not covet or desire someone else's gifts or position. Do this because God has specifically called you to fill the role He has designed for You.
You know why no one else has Your story? Because you have been set up to tell it to someone who needs to hear Your story. Your story, life, skills, gifts were all designed to contribute to the Kingdom of God. God does not need us to try to duplicate and replicate what someone else does; He has fearfully and wonderfully made us as individuals, with an individual assignment to address.
If you are not sure what Your purpose is, go to God. Ask Him, "Why have I been allowed to see thhis, or go through that?" Or ask "Why do I have this talent or that talent?" God will show you, nay all of us, Why He made us like He did if we ask Him.
- It took me a long time to stop running like Jonah (In my mind & spirit) and embrace what God has called me to. I love the fact that I love what He has called me to (now). It was not easy, nor did I always readily accept it. But let my life be a lesson to you. Don't lose years on end trying to figure it out. Remember God will not beat you up for seeking His will. In fact, it's the total opposite. He encourages it, and He is encouraging you to do so. Just Do It.
Peace. Be Good.
Finally!
- It is finally Friday, and I am glad to see the week go out! The news clips of the City Council (most specifically the 4 Divas) singing old church hymns was enough to both laugh my head off and also shake my head in dusgust (You try doing both at the same time). It is sad that everyday Detroit has to find itself in the punchline of a comedian's routine because of what is done by the political leadership.
It is like a man who shoots himself in the foot get mad at the people who notice how much blood is being lost and then cusses them out for noticing the damage that was done. Get it together, people, dare I say, leaders.
Finally (II)!
- My MSU Spartans are again the champions of the Big Ten, outright, no sharing. It is another feather in the cap of Coach Tom Izzo and the brave 12 from East Lansing. It is the first Big Ten title in about 8 years, since 2001. It makes you say wow, why has it taken so long, but also job well done.
- The Spartans are still an outside shot to get a Number 1 seed for the upcoming NCAA Tournament. If they go on and win the Big Ten Tournament after the season, they will be no less than a #2, and depending on how everything else shakes down, a #1 to go along with North Carolina, UConn/Pitt (whoever wins the Big Beast) and probably Oklahoma (depending on how the Blake Griffin injury is viewed).
- All of Sparta herself (I mean East Lansing and her sons) are basking in the continued climb that Izzo and Co. are approaching since this team is clearly the most talented one since the championship team of 2000. Good luck fellas.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- The key to being blessed as a Child of God is to walk in your calling. Do what God has called you to do. Do not covet or desire someone else's gifts or position. Do this because God has specifically called you to fill the role He has designed for You.
You know why no one else has Your story? Because you have been set up to tell it to someone who needs to hear Your story. Your story, life, skills, gifts were all designed to contribute to the Kingdom of God. God does not need us to try to duplicate and replicate what someone else does; He has fearfully and wonderfully made us as individuals, with an individual assignment to address.
If you are not sure what Your purpose is, go to God. Ask Him, "Why have I been allowed to see thhis, or go through that?" Or ask "Why do I have this talent or that talent?" God will show you, nay all of us, Why He made us like He did if we ask Him.
- It took me a long time to stop running like Jonah (In my mind & spirit) and embrace what God has called me to. I love the fact that I love what He has called me to (now). It was not easy, nor did I always readily accept it. But let my life be a lesson to you. Don't lose years on end trying to figure it out. Remember God will not beat you up for seeking His will. In fact, it's the total opposite. He encourages it, and He is encouraging you to do so. Just Do It.
Peace. Be Good.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Are You Serious?!?
* Unfortunately, It Does Not Look For The 3 Men Lost at Sea.
Are You Serious?!?
- OMG, I was watching the news today, only to see a long, fearful rant by The City Council. No, not Conyers this time, but by Barbara Rose Collins. She was at first sounding off about her (and others) fears of losing control of Cobo. Nothing new there. But then, there were some spectators (or possible other members) who then shouted various other Detroit-held entities that they feared could be lost as well.
They cried out about the Water Board, The DIA (THE Hidden Jewel of Detroit, IMO) and other landmarks. Their concern could have some validity. What ALSO has validity is how they (and prior Councils) have wasted away the inherent values of some of these landmarks, by not utilizing correct oversight and proper maintenance and sound fiscal policies. Council members, you can rant and rail all you want about losing control, but my question is, what are YOU leaving behind for future generations of Detroiters? Are you going to be leaving viable landmarks, or just shells of what used to be? You all are just like Nero, playing while Rome burned.
The Man is About Business
- The President is at it again. President Obama is fastidiously attempting to not only address the ills that he talked about on the campaign trail, but he is also trying to attack the problems that have been deep rooted in this country. Next up on his hitlist: Healthcare.
He was meeting today with the various parties that impact and affect healthcare across this country. His meetings were public (unlike Clinton's), and he is considering and examining ways to make healthcare a national opportunity for all. What many do not seem to realize is that healthcare costs account for MANY personal bankruptcies. It was reported approximately that 1.5 million people annually file for bankruptcy due to healthcare costs and concerns. Shameful.
No president has been effectively able to get a handle on this issue since Theodore Roosevelt. Well, President Obama, some 100 years later is aiming at it now. Here's one man hoping, unlike Limbaugh, that he does NOT fail. I have children who will be impacted by this.
New Life for the Pistons?
- Are the Detroit Pistons making a new run with approximately 20 games to go? They have won their last three games, beating Orlando, Boston and Denver (In Chauncey Billups' return to Tha D). Let's look a little closer at this.
1) The Orlando W was a good win, no other way to look at it. The Pistons got one in against the team they have beaten in the last two playoffs, a team whose number they seem to have.
2) The Boston victory came against a Celtic team without Kevin Garnett, who quite frankly, OWNS Rasheed Wallace. Since KG came to Boston, they have spanked the Pistons repeatedly, so his absence obviously played into Sheed regaining his game against Beantown's Best.
3) The Denver game was the most hollow win I must remark. How, some will ask, since Billups came back and gave Stuckey 35? A little known fact is that Carmelo Anthony was not playing, sent home because of a suspension. In the NBA, if a team does not have its best player and leading scorer on the road, those teams have 1 win & 25,000 losses (The Buffalo Braves won once when Bob McAdoo had the flu in '76). So that game almost doesn't count.
In any respects, it is time for the bugler player to get ready to hit taps in about 8 weeks, when Round 1 of the playoffs is done and the Pistons join me at the crib to watch the rest of the teams play for it all.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- A word to the Wise. I almost got caught up with an unscrupulous "agent." Literary agents, like all agents go on behalf of their client in order to procure book deals. I have info from one such agent and was advised to send in my manuscript, etc. Well, I had to look up their website before sending my info in.
As it turns out, this company is a well-known scam artist and is infamous for charging fees for editing, layouts, et. al. I am soooo glad that I did not send them anything of real note or cost. I have worked too hard for this, and God is going to make those things that are invisible to become seen so that HIS will may be done and He is given all the glory! It shall come to pass, It shall be done! In Jesus' name, it shall be!
Peace.
Are You Serious?!?
- OMG, I was watching the news today, only to see a long, fearful rant by The City Council. No, not Conyers this time, but by Barbara Rose Collins. She was at first sounding off about her (and others) fears of losing control of Cobo. Nothing new there. But then, there were some spectators (or possible other members) who then shouted various other Detroit-held entities that they feared could be lost as well.
They cried out about the Water Board, The DIA (THE Hidden Jewel of Detroit, IMO) and other landmarks. Their concern could have some validity. What ALSO has validity is how they (and prior Councils) have wasted away the inherent values of some of these landmarks, by not utilizing correct oversight and proper maintenance and sound fiscal policies. Council members, you can rant and rail all you want about losing control, but my question is, what are YOU leaving behind for future generations of Detroiters? Are you going to be leaving viable landmarks, or just shells of what used to be? You all are just like Nero, playing while Rome burned.
The Man is About Business
- The President is at it again. President Obama is fastidiously attempting to not only address the ills that he talked about on the campaign trail, but he is also trying to attack the problems that have been deep rooted in this country. Next up on his hitlist: Healthcare.
He was meeting today with the various parties that impact and affect healthcare across this country. His meetings were public (unlike Clinton's), and he is considering and examining ways to make healthcare a national opportunity for all. What many do not seem to realize is that healthcare costs account for MANY personal bankruptcies. It was reported approximately that 1.5 million people annually file for bankruptcy due to healthcare costs and concerns. Shameful.
No president has been effectively able to get a handle on this issue since Theodore Roosevelt. Well, President Obama, some 100 years later is aiming at it now. Here's one man hoping, unlike Limbaugh, that he does NOT fail. I have children who will be impacted by this.
New Life for the Pistons?
- Are the Detroit Pistons making a new run with approximately 20 games to go? They have won their last three games, beating Orlando, Boston and Denver (In Chauncey Billups' return to Tha D). Let's look a little closer at this.
1) The Orlando W was a good win, no other way to look at it. The Pistons got one in against the team they have beaten in the last two playoffs, a team whose number they seem to have.
2) The Boston victory came against a Celtic team without Kevin Garnett, who quite frankly, OWNS Rasheed Wallace. Since KG came to Boston, they have spanked the Pistons repeatedly, so his absence obviously played into Sheed regaining his game against Beantown's Best.
3) The Denver game was the most hollow win I must remark. How, some will ask, since Billups came back and gave Stuckey 35? A little known fact is that Carmelo Anthony was not playing, sent home because of a suspension. In the NBA, if a team does not have its best player and leading scorer on the road, those teams have 1 win & 25,000 losses (The Buffalo Braves won once when Bob McAdoo had the flu in '76). So that game almost doesn't count.
In any respects, it is time for the bugler player to get ready to hit taps in about 8 weeks, when Round 1 of the playoffs is done and the Pistons join me at the crib to watch the rest of the teams play for it all.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- A word to the Wise. I almost got caught up with an unscrupulous "agent." Literary agents, like all agents go on behalf of their client in order to procure book deals. I have info from one such agent and was advised to send in my manuscript, etc. Well, I had to look up their website before sending my info in.
As it turns out, this company is a well-known scam artist and is infamous for charging fees for editing, layouts, et. al. I am soooo glad that I did not send them anything of real note or cost. I have worked too hard for this, and God is going to make those things that are invisible to become seen so that HIS will may be done and He is given all the glory! It shall come to pass, It shall be done! In Jesus' name, it shall be!
Peace.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A SECOND CHANCE?
* Before we get into Anything else, We want to send out a prayer for the families of the 3 brothers lost in the Gulf of Mexico.
A Second Chance at Life?
- I am at a loss trying to explain the sympathy and empathy for those families who are still searching for the men whose ship was capsized on Saturday afternoon. Because 2 men were NFL athletes, that neither makes their disappearance more important than the other gentlemen, nor does it make their potential loss any greater.
The 3rd gentleman, whose name I am not familiar with, is a person just as valuable to society as are Corey Smith and Marquis Cooper, he's just not as well-known. Our deepest prayers are covering both them and their families. We are hoping that God does the miraculous and allows for a safe return to all of those men.
A Do Over?
- There are reports that Mayor Ken Cockrel Jr. is contemplating a veto of the City Council's idiotic decision to renovate and resuscitate Cobo Center and transition its ownership into a regional authority. I believe that the majority of people who wanted the renovation plan to be voted down were fearing that Detroit would lose control of one of its landmarks. I hate to be redundant, what is the purpose of controlling something that is dying on the vine?
The issue should not be one of control, but one of what's best for the city, region and state as a whole. It is the 21st Century, people let's get past the rhetoric and fears of 30-35 years ago. I know how vital ownership is in any city, but how much more important is the viability and vitality of Cobo Center?
A Do Over? (Pt. 2)
- When the Pistons blew the 2nd pick in 2003 on Darko Milicic (passing on Carmelo, Bosh, etc.) I thought Dwyane Wade would have been the ideal pick to blend in with Rip Hamilton & Chauncey Billups, and eventually grow into a replacement for either.
When Detroit drafted Rodney Stuckey last year, he was cited as having the same kind of game as guess who? You got it, Mr. Wade. I did not think so after watching him play last year, and am pretty sure after 3/4 of this season being completed. Wade played the point guard position as a rookie because he is a rather unselfish player who learned to share the ball on the way to a Final Four appearance as a junior. Stuckey on the other hand, was always a shooting guard, who was not known as a willing passer or lead guard-type.
To take a fellow who's always been an off-guard and then say (at the highest level of the sport), let's change you to a lead guard is a BIG switch and hard to do. It's hard enough to just go from college to the pros as is, but this is not working, so far. Since he is young, Stuckey may become another in the long line of great Piston guards, but he is not D. Wade, the remix or remake.
Obvious Book Plug of The Day:
- I came across information on an agency that long ago viewed a prior copy of my manuscript. I decided to resubmit it to review for a possible second opportunity of representation. I am going to wait with baited breath (what does that mean, anyway?) for a communication back from them on it. If they are pleased with it, we may look to run with them. They do fit the criterion set by the editor I had been contacting on this matter. As things progress, be sure to stay tuned for the next update on this one.
Be Easy, Y'all.
A Second Chance at Life?
- I am at a loss trying to explain the sympathy and empathy for those families who are still searching for the men whose ship was capsized on Saturday afternoon. Because 2 men were NFL athletes, that neither makes their disappearance more important than the other gentlemen, nor does it make their potential loss any greater.
The 3rd gentleman, whose name I am not familiar with, is a person just as valuable to society as are Corey Smith and Marquis Cooper, he's just not as well-known. Our deepest prayers are covering both them and their families. We are hoping that God does the miraculous and allows for a safe return to all of those men.
A Do Over?
- There are reports that Mayor Ken Cockrel Jr. is contemplating a veto of the City Council's idiotic decision to renovate and resuscitate Cobo Center and transition its ownership into a regional authority. I believe that the majority of people who wanted the renovation plan to be voted down were fearing that Detroit would lose control of one of its landmarks. I hate to be redundant, what is the purpose of controlling something that is dying on the vine?
The issue should not be one of control, but one of what's best for the city, region and state as a whole. It is the 21st Century, people let's get past the rhetoric and fears of 30-35 years ago. I know how vital ownership is in any city, but how much more important is the viability and vitality of Cobo Center?
A Do Over? (Pt. 2)
- When the Pistons blew the 2nd pick in 2003 on Darko Milicic (passing on Carmelo, Bosh, etc.) I thought Dwyane Wade would have been the ideal pick to blend in with Rip Hamilton & Chauncey Billups, and eventually grow into a replacement for either.
When Detroit drafted Rodney Stuckey last year, he was cited as having the same kind of game as guess who? You got it, Mr. Wade. I did not think so after watching him play last year, and am pretty sure after 3/4 of this season being completed. Wade played the point guard position as a rookie because he is a rather unselfish player who learned to share the ball on the way to a Final Four appearance as a junior. Stuckey on the other hand, was always a shooting guard, who was not known as a willing passer or lead guard-type.
To take a fellow who's always been an off-guard and then say (at the highest level of the sport), let's change you to a lead guard is a BIG switch and hard to do. It's hard enough to just go from college to the pros as is, but this is not working, so far. Since he is young, Stuckey may become another in the long line of great Piston guards, but he is not D. Wade, the remix or remake.
Obvious Book Plug of The Day:
- I came across information on an agency that long ago viewed a prior copy of my manuscript. I decided to resubmit it to review for a possible second opportunity of representation. I am going to wait with baited breath (what does that mean, anyway?) for a communication back from them on it. If they are pleased with it, we may look to run with them. They do fit the criterion set by the editor I had been contacting on this matter. As things progress, be sure to stay tuned for the next update on this one.
Be Easy, Y'all.
Monday, March 2, 2009
What Is Going On?
Day 61:
What's Going on Peoples?
- Some Interesting things going on over this weekend.
1) I witnessed Monica Conyers, President of the Detroit City Council on the news, in studio. She was in a forum re: last week's debacle on Cobo Center and other political issues. In a word she is an Abomination as a city leader. She is a law school graduate, and boy does she give those with a juris doctorate a bad name. She was very unprofessional, she appeared to have an attitude more in-line with the sisters at the beauty shop, than that of one in charge of running a city that is in the Top 10 in the country.
How can Detroit feel good about itself, knowing that if things got ugly, she could be in the big chair, making all of the big decisions? You talk about a disgrace on the national scene? Kwame who? Fugheddaboutit. She is crass, rude, curt and screams, "I only got here because of my last name!" Speaking of which, has anyone ever asked why is it that her "husband," Congressman John Conyers, is NEVER seen with her? Just a question to consider...
2) I caught most of the Phoenix-LA Lakers game on Sunday afternoon. I noticed the trend that has been plaguing the NBA, and to a lesser degree, the NFL. It is a trend that disgusts me and I find completely unacceptable. It is cheering for the opposition. Early on in the game, Kobe "It's Still All About Me" Bryant was getting more than his fair share of cheers. I was continously looking at the floor and arena to verify the game was in Phoenix, not LA.
A few weeks back, the crowd at MSG serenaded him with chants of MVP when he shot his way to over 50 points. The fact that he gained all of 3 assists notwithstanding, it was a despicable scene. Why would fans of the opposing team cheer for the best player of the team that is trying to beat your team? I don't think that the Bad Boys were EVER cheered in Chicago, Philly or Beantown, yet these watered-down fans today will cheer for the man who wants to send them home, crying over the fact that their team lost. Insane to a man who grew up on sports. I can honestly say I remember my first games before having my first memory of church. And I am a preacher!
3) Word is, Snoop Dogg, the Doggfather, blunt smoking, reality tv host and self-proclaimed pimp, has joined the Nation of Islam. He says he is an "advocate of peace," yet and still, he is not a Christian? It seems to me, that if I am an advocate of peace, I would want to be down with the Prince of Peace. The Prince of Peace is not named Louis Farrakhan, but Jesus Christ! I am continually amazed at how many of our brothers still think that being a Christian is not synonymous with being a strong Black man. Today, more than ever, Pastors and preachers assert their Blackness and Strength without compromise AND are saved!
The day of the shuffling, mumbling, compromised Black preacher is gone. Their are too many brothers doing the right thing in the pulpit and out of the pulpit to make the excuse that the Pastor/Preacher is just a pimp and he don't stand for what's right. That is a tired cop-out, and somebody needs to call these brothers together and let them know that to be righteous, you don't run away from the Church, but you need to run to it. Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, Dr. Michael Dyson, you all are ministers, men of the cloth. You have the ears of so many influential Black men, speak up! Or do you just want the position without the responsibility. That's real.
4) The Republican Party may be the biggest hypocrites the World has ever known. I've watched and read several media outlets where the RNC decries every facet of President Obama's stimulus and economic plans. They say they now are crying out to change Washington, yet and still, they were arm-in-arm when Bush took us into the throes of this economic crisis. Where were there protests then? How can they not associate themselves with the decisions then and now say that they have the solution? How can they continue to insult our intelligence and expect us to swallow what they are shoveling and not regurgitate it due to the fact that it is hypocrisy at its finest and garbage at its worst.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- I got an email from a publisher who is willing to partner with me on getting my book out. It will come with some cost for me, though. Now that is antithetical to me in part. My thought is, if I am producing the work from first page to last, why would I need to pay to get it out? The flip side is, if I am not willing to put money into this project, why would I expect anyone else to? It is something that I will have to prayerfully consider, before making a final decision. Keep reading this blog, and you may know before the publisher does.
Peace, Love and Hair Grease.
What's Going on Peoples?
- Some Interesting things going on over this weekend.
1) I witnessed Monica Conyers, President of the Detroit City Council on the news, in studio. She was in a forum re: last week's debacle on Cobo Center and other political issues. In a word she is an Abomination as a city leader. She is a law school graduate, and boy does she give those with a juris doctorate a bad name. She was very unprofessional, she appeared to have an attitude more in-line with the sisters at the beauty shop, than that of one in charge of running a city that is in the Top 10 in the country.
How can Detroit feel good about itself, knowing that if things got ugly, she could be in the big chair, making all of the big decisions? You talk about a disgrace on the national scene? Kwame who? Fugheddaboutit. She is crass, rude, curt and screams, "I only got here because of my last name!" Speaking of which, has anyone ever asked why is it that her "husband," Congressman John Conyers, is NEVER seen with her? Just a question to consider...
2) I caught most of the Phoenix-LA Lakers game on Sunday afternoon. I noticed the trend that has been plaguing the NBA, and to a lesser degree, the NFL. It is a trend that disgusts me and I find completely unacceptable. It is cheering for the opposition. Early on in the game, Kobe "It's Still All About Me" Bryant was getting more than his fair share of cheers. I was continously looking at the floor and arena to verify the game was in Phoenix, not LA.
A few weeks back, the crowd at MSG serenaded him with chants of MVP when he shot his way to over 50 points. The fact that he gained all of 3 assists notwithstanding, it was a despicable scene. Why would fans of the opposing team cheer for the best player of the team that is trying to beat your team? I don't think that the Bad Boys were EVER cheered in Chicago, Philly or Beantown, yet these watered-down fans today will cheer for the man who wants to send them home, crying over the fact that their team lost. Insane to a man who grew up on sports. I can honestly say I remember my first games before having my first memory of church. And I am a preacher!
3) Word is, Snoop Dogg, the Doggfather, blunt smoking, reality tv host and self-proclaimed pimp, has joined the Nation of Islam. He says he is an "advocate of peace," yet and still, he is not a Christian? It seems to me, that if I am an advocate of peace, I would want to be down with the Prince of Peace. The Prince of Peace is not named Louis Farrakhan, but Jesus Christ! I am continually amazed at how many of our brothers still think that being a Christian is not synonymous with being a strong Black man. Today, more than ever, Pastors and preachers assert their Blackness and Strength without compromise AND are saved!
The day of the shuffling, mumbling, compromised Black preacher is gone. Their are too many brothers doing the right thing in the pulpit and out of the pulpit to make the excuse that the Pastor/Preacher is just a pimp and he don't stand for what's right. That is a tired cop-out, and somebody needs to call these brothers together and let them know that to be righteous, you don't run away from the Church, but you need to run to it. Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, Dr. Michael Dyson, you all are ministers, men of the cloth. You have the ears of so many influential Black men, speak up! Or do you just want the position without the responsibility. That's real.
4) The Republican Party may be the biggest hypocrites the World has ever known. I've watched and read several media outlets where the RNC decries every facet of President Obama's stimulus and economic plans. They say they now are crying out to change Washington, yet and still, they were arm-in-arm when Bush took us into the throes of this economic crisis. Where were there protests then? How can they not associate themselves with the decisions then and now say that they have the solution? How can they continue to insult our intelligence and expect us to swallow what they are shoveling and not regurgitate it due to the fact that it is hypocrisy at its finest and garbage at its worst.
Obvious Book Plug of the Day:
- I got an email from a publisher who is willing to partner with me on getting my book out. It will come with some cost for me, though. Now that is antithetical to me in part. My thought is, if I am producing the work from first page to last, why would I need to pay to get it out? The flip side is, if I am not willing to put money into this project, why would I expect anyone else to? It is something that I will have to prayerfully consider, before making a final decision. Keep reading this blog, and you may know before the publisher does.
Peace, Love and Hair Grease.
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