AtypicalAnecdote

In Memory of A Preacher's Wife: RIP Whitney Houston

2012-02-11T22:58:00.000-08:00

Much like the rest of the world, we are shocked and in disbelief at the passing of several influential people within these last weeks. Today, Whitney Houston, a voice ranging in effortless scale, rooted in the black church, paralleled by none, was found dead in the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Her untimely death comes as a surprise to black audiences and music lovers alike on the eve of the music industry’s biggest night’s—the Grammy Awards—a night of which her success used to reign supreme.

At her peak, Houston was the golden girl of the music industry. From the middle 1980s to the late 1990s, she was one of the world's best-selling artists. She wowed audiences with her stage presence, appearance, and miraculous vocals. Houston’s talents carried her over the threshold from music industry into the film industry. Known for roles as “The Body Guard,” “Waiting to Exhale” and most popular within the black church, “The Preacher’s Wife” of which she starred opposite Denzel Washington.

The Rev. Al Sharpton said he would call for a national prayer Sunday morning during a service at Second Baptist Church in Los Angeles. "The morning of the Grammys, the world should pause and pray for the memory of a gifted songbird," Sharpton said in a written statement.

We will continue to try and perfect the “Houston” run’s…slave away to compete with songs like, “I love the Lord” or the Gospel medley she held down with Cece Winans and Shirley Caesar. It is true that death cannot kill what cannot die. Whitney Houston’s memory will live on within the hearts of many through her music, her movies, and her trailblazing feats. Rest in Peace, Ms. Houston.

John 14:1-4 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.”

SOPA? How about NOPA!

2012-01-19T02:46:00.000-08:00

Such leading websites as Google, Wikipedia, Reddit and Boing Boing have either shut down, or delayed their load in time in an attempt to protest congressional antipiracy bills they say amount to censorship.

SOPA and PIPA seemed to have the right intent to stop piracy and phishing online, however reports say their methodology is flawed. According to the LA Times, already three major co-sponsors of SOPA and PIPA antipiracy bills have publicly withdrawn their support due to the weight of heavy protests.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) says on his facebook page:

”Congress should listen and avoid rushing through a bill that could have many unintended consequences.”

Wikipedia, Reddit and about 10,000 other websites blacked out their pages Wednesday with messages warning of the dangers of the legislation and urging people to contact their congressional representatives. Dan Weiser, a spokesman for the House office of the chief administrative officer says,

“Due to the black outs, there has been a manageable increase to House member websites”

I thought censorship was unAmerican?!

To read more on the bills, click here: End Piracy, Not Liberty

An Observance on Martin Luther King Day

2012-01-16T14:35:00.000-08:00

While 56% of American’s have the day off, 44% of Americans, under employers’ ideals somewhat synonymous with Jesse Helms and Ronald Reagan, are in their offices today answering phones, and scheduling meetings—another manic Monday. But how should we honor a man who wanted to overturn the entire edifice so that ALL PEOPLE could practice justice and love toward one another?

Vincent Harding, one of King’s colleagues, once said, “A dangerous Negro, now a national hero. How shall we work with that?" In 1963 Martin Luther King, Jr. was called the most dangerous Negro in the United States because he posed a threat to the very precious ideals that, unfortunately, continue to underwrite our socio-economic and political culture.

A national observance of Martin Luther King Day today leaves me feeling Shakespeare-like—to work or not to work? If we take the day off, are we observing King for the man he was and the amazing lengths he went for equality or by taking the day off are we domesticating his radical message?

Most people who live under a time of influence of a natural leader, trailblazer, and hero—do not realize it until articles and books are published posthumously. While we contemplate the above statement, “If we take the day off, are we observing King for the man he was and the amazing lengths he went for equality or by taking the day off are we domesticating his radical message?” I would like us all to consider what a conversation would be like between Bishop Charles E. Blake, President BarakObama, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. would be.

Let’s honor our leaders while they still inhale and exhale precious air. Pray for our leaders and support them the best way we can. Mark 6:4 says, “But Jesus said tothem, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his ownrelatives, and in his own house.” Could it be possible to speak well of our leaders and honor them now? To marvel at the legacies they still create?

Today is not just another manic Monday.

Frail Bodies Pt. 1

2011-11-29T15:57:00.000-08:00

The human species or better yet, homo sapiens is latin for "wise man" or "knowing man." Us, being the "wiser" of the species have a highly developed brain and are capable of abstract reasoning, language, introspection, and problem-solving. We are bilateral beings, sensitive to body language, self-expression and the exchange of ideas. All powerful are we? hmmmm...indeed.

We are the movers and shakers of this earth...from civilization, to trade and economics, architecture, and science and health...our additions to the earth, (and subtractions as well) make us the kings and queens of the land.

Yet, what I find ironic is in all our "splendor" "awe" and "amazement," how incredibly frail our bodies are. We have no outer layers of protection, no scales, no exoskeleton, disguising attributes, (weaves and make up do not play here!), no venom...all we have is skin. Yes, our skin protects us against pathogens, excessive water loss and other things...but we are naturally and literally defenseless.

As God created us in His image and likeness...I would like to assume that he also created us to physically depend on Him. He knew what abilities He was going to mold us to have, what things were capable of and how impactful we would be on this world. But yet and still...our natural physical makeup causes us to be dependent on Him. To cover us, pick us up least we cast a foot on a stone, as He promises that no weapon forged against us will prosper.

Our frail bodies, and God our Preserver.

We Remember September 11th

2011-09-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

I remember exactly where I was on September 11, 2001. I sat on the edge of my seat as the rest of my fellow students clustered around a television in the middle of my 9^th grade English class. Horror gripped my body as I saw ominous smoke bellow from buildings and police officers frantic over the airways. I remember asking my teacher, “is this a movie or is this real?” With tears in her eyes, my teacher—Mrs. Bridges said, “Antoinette…this is very real.”

September 11^th will always be remembered as surreal day of pain and disbelief for the American people. How could a series of four coordinated suicide attacks fall upon a country that seemed so impenetrable? On that dark morning, 19 terrorists from the Islamist militant group al-Qaeda hijacked four passenger jets and intentionally crashed two into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and a fourth jet—Flight 93—crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylania before it could reach its intended target in Washington, DC.

It would be wise for us to pause and reflect on the courageous men and women on that day. Let us reflect on El Shaddai’s grace and mercy on how He opened the gates of heaven and welcomed loved ones. Let us reflect on Jehovah Shammah

—a God who is there, comforting wife’s who had lost their husbands and children who had lost their mothers . Jehovah Rapha—healing God who is yet and still bringing back the minds of city officials in FDNY AND NYPD suffering from posttraumatic stress. Jehovah Jireh—a provider to families who have still been unable to identify remains of a family member.

Many brothers and sisters are mourning on this day and searching for a need to smile. Tomorrow is truly not promised and as we are considering the feelings of our fellow man, it would be wise for us to also consider ourselves. If we should perish today would we be satisfied with the lives we have lead, would our family be pleased at the example we have left for future generations to emulate? And most importantly…would we hear our merciful father whisper onto us, “Well done.”

May we continue to have love and understanding in our heart. Treat every verb that comes from your mouth onto someone’s ears as golden. Change starts within. Shalom.

Life Can Still Continue

2011-08-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

"When things don't go according to plan some people say, 'I just got dealt the wrong set of cards.' And when I hear that, I start to think...well...whose actually playing?" says Nicholas James Vujicic (affectionately known as 'Nick'" (born 4 December 1982) is a preacher and motivational speaker born with Tetra-amelia syndrome--a rare disorder characterized by the absence of all four limbs.

As a child and through the struggles a young one must have had growing up, he eventually came to terms with his disability and started his own non-profit Life Without Limbs – at age seventeen. Vujicic presents motivational speeches worldwide, on life with a disability, hope, and finding meaning in life.

This video below made me cry like a tiny tiny baby. Let me know how you like it.

Is Racism Still Alive?

2011-08-12T02:30:00.000-07:00

Here I was minding my own business when my friend Ryan Hill on facebook asked me to weigh in on a topic posted on his page by Mr. Willam Taylor. Appropriately titled, "SPARKS." I have copied our conversation below as our discussion is a healthy one we must continue to ask ourselves.

William Taylor writes:

Over the past few days, I’ve been reading posts on Ryan’s page concerning racism, cultural diversity and overall ignorance. I’ve justly responded with my on thoughts on the matter(s), but feel like they’ve been promptly ‘swept under the rug’ by more debates stemming from the same issues. I, for one, apologize for using a friends Facebook page as a sounding board, but am – frankly – getting tired of the ‘why me’s’. I’m sure a few of you will think that last sentence was speckled with an ample dose of ignorance, as well, but if you were to take a chance to get to know me, like Ryan has, you would realize that it’s quite the opposite, so please…hear me out....

The post recently added by Amora, about a man – James Anderson – being brutally slain by two right wing extremists, disgusts me. Not for the fact that this was an act of racial prejudices, but because an honest, hard working family man was killed. The thing that bothers me about this, stems at an underlying issue that is far more disconcerting to me – to let this man die in vain, would be an injustice to both him and his loved ones, and would also serve as a victory to those who committed such a heinous crime.

Instead of the “why me’s” and simply posting the fact that “racism is still alive”, people of the world need to realize a simple fact….. THAT WE ARE ALL ONE. We are all human. Slavery ended in 1863. The Holocaust in 1945. 18 days ago, a man killed 72 people in cold blood – all the victims were white, as was the killer. In Somalia, 500,000 children are facing imminent starvation because the al-Shabab won’t allow the U.N to import food. HATRED is not going anywhere, but the way we respond to it, HAS TO. Not one race should feel the pain of these tragedies, but everyone – ALL races and creeds. The further we distance ourselves in times like these, the longer these acts of hatred and ignorance will continue.

- This is simply, my own humble opinion.

And yours truly writes:

Your “one humble opinion” was stated perfectly. The phrase, “WE ARE ALL ONE” seems to ignite some abstract thinking into many minds instead of dealing with the simplicity of it.
We are all interdependent on each living, breathing organism. The naturalist in me would say, as we exhale plants “inhale”, as plants “exhale” we inhale. Common concept of carbon and oxygen… The spiritual person in me says, we are all created with a purpose to peruse that specific purpose, backed by a merciful God. The historian in me shuffles back through historical data and traces our origins back to ONE source.

We are all one, in the sense that we all experience hate, injustice, despair. Literary leaders, religious trailblazers, and humanitarian workers have all been quoted questioning humanity’s disdain for one another from the beginning of time. Shakespeare wrote in The Merchant of Venice "If you prick us, do we not bleed? If you tickle us, do we not laugh? If you poison us, do we not die?" Mahatma Gandi’s, “There are many causes that I am prepared to die for but no cause that I am prepared to kill for.” “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1:19

There has ONLY been TWO times in history were a unity in the American people was tangible: 1, the 6.9 earthquake in 1989 (killing over 60 people and about $6 billion in expenses) and 2, the four coordinated suicide attacks by al-Qaeda otherwise known as 9/11. I remember walking out of my house and stumbling and at least 4 people came to help me up. The hurt partnered with a thankful mindset for life created a blanket of harmony—although short lived, was beautiful.

But the point that you are missing is clear…racism is still UNFORTUNATELY simmering on a stove of governmental policies in a pot of political gain. And as racism is still simmering, violence is its inescapable companion. For example, since Bush has left the Presidential Office, racially motivated violent outbursts have increased by 400% against President Obama. (The highest number on record.) There has also been an increase in the number of anti-immigration groups throughout the country. These groups grew from 173 in 2008 to 309 in 2009, a rise of nearly 80%.

I agree with what Ryan has said in response to slavery. The abomination of slavery is, in fact, over…but there is a pain that is associated even with the very word as slavery has affected lives of the old. The most influential way of storytelling is oral tradition. Stories passed down from generation to generation. And while black hurt as been passed down, paralleled are stories of white supremacy are passed down as well. We cannot simply touch on a matter without understanding its origins or subsequent actions. Now should a black man or woman sit back and use that ideology as an excuse to be unsuccessful? No…but it is what it is.

As racism’s companion is violence its counterpart is power. Our world produces enough food to feed every mouth suffering from hunger. World agriculture produces 17 % more calories per person today than it did 30 years ago, despite a 70 % population increase. Which leads us to the topic of poverty. The causes of poverty include an individual’s lack of resources, an extremely unequal income distribution in the world and within specific countries, conflict, and hunger itself. Racisim+violence+power= a self destructing world drowning in a conundrum of contentment.

And I will stop here before I start rambling more. I’ll have you know, William, I told Ryan last night that I am in love with your mind.

If you care to weigh in on the discussion, by all means...do so. :)

Sex is the Easy Part (Pt. 2)

2011-07-14T11:20:00.001-07:00

When you're dreaming with a broken heart the waking up is the hardest part. Not because of love lost, but because who will be around to deal with you when you cant?

As the only man growing up around women, my thoughts, ideas, and concepts were quickly shoved under the rug. I couldn’t be too emotional about a problem, couldn’t express my concerns, wants, and needs because I had to be a man. My mother had an addiction problem and left me. She’d say she’ll be back, but I wouldn’t see her at times for months. I became very good at charming my way into things. You see...if they can't see the hurt behind the smile, we have a win/win situation. I got used to charming my way into hearts and subsequently, I learned how sex was my greatest asset.

I would walk around with my hand out waiting for a woman to help me. Too prideful to ask a brother, cuz a woman always understands. Men make no excuses, women have purses filled with them.

Cece was a good one. She'd give me rides when needed...offer bus tokens from her mothers stash and cooked for me when I asked. Who needs a car when there's always a willing woman? Queta, was drama for me and I lived it, loved it. Her attention made me feel like a king and I loved going to her house, leaving messes on her floor and food to see if she’d bring it to me the next day. Even when she got into a relationship, to hear her say she wished it was I made me walk on cloud 9.

Rina, said she’d always be there for me and didn’t mind if it took me 3 hours on the bus to get to her..she'd given me a child, the least I could do was sex her from time to time. Toni wrote my proposals, cooked for me, took me to rehearsals, and introduced me to everyone I know now--not to mention she let her little girl love me. What I love most is a woman with a child, though. That let’s me know she has to take care of business because if she doesn’t work, her child won’t eat. Let’s me know she isn’t accustomed to handouts and won’t be asking me for any.

Each one of you speaks to my insecurities while I'd create problems that didn't exist to artfully push each one of you away...a woman's heart is my playground.

You see...at the end of the day, there will always be one who gets me. Who will play hard to get until suddenly she gives in. So I charm her. Pull her into my lyrical kingdom, spit bars around her thighs, whisper rhymes between them...blow a lil air up there to hear her moan. Cuz it feeds my ego. I know she love my big ego.

Somewhere between rhyme and reason I should have learned sex is the easy part. And waking up is the hardest part.

(stay tuned for Pt. 3)

Get OUT My Mind

2011-06-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

"What are you doing in here?" I ask. He's not in here. I know he's not. I close my eyes, and open them slowly. Oh my God he is here. I lounge across the room. "No, no...put that book down. And that one too!"

Everything is out in the open now, I couldn't hide anything if I wanted to. I'm exposed...I might as well be standing there naked in front of him. A barely audible whisper escapes my mouth, "put it back on the shelf in alphabetical order please." I take a deep breath, close my eyes and slowly open them...drawing courage from somewhere I didn't know existed. "I asked you a question, Raphael...what are you doing in here?"

As he stands there, his cologne reaches me...slicing through my barriers of protection...combating the sweet musk of my books in their mahogany shelves.

I look around the room of my treasured possessions. I looked at the rows and rows of books, manuscripts, poems, words, photographs...my life cataloged in one room.

Every book in here I wrote
Some I'm not too proud of
Some I wish I could burn
So many pages I wrote
Wish I could revise them
But there's no erasing
And the best advice I got was....

keep writing

"Oh...nothing. Just looking, turning the pages. You've got some good material," he says with that smirk I used to love. Should I just run? Should I scream? All I want to do is cry--

"I even took a few pages out that book over there. I found it quite interesting.""Of what book?!" He laughs. "Antoinette, what's wrong? Relax! I took a few from the big one over there. The purple one on the stand."

The title of that purple book was, "My heart."

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The question of the day is...who are you going to allow in your mind's library? Who will you grant the access to rip pages from your heart's surface and will stumble upon your "how-to" booklet's to reach your precious inner core's being? Take it step by step...day by day...and remember, there's no talking in the library.

HT: Dust

A Beautiful Heart

2011-06-27T01:31:00.000-07:00

The heart is the catalyst to the life of our frail body’s, without it we would cease to exist as it is one of the most important organs in our body. In science and literature, the heart is always taking spotlight.
When a break up occurs, we hear that someone’s heart is broken. We never hear that someone’s mind is broken, or their lung is broken--always the heart.

With my linear way of thinking, I can’t help but compare a beautiful heart with a scientific approach. As I sit and think about the heart expanding and contracting, delivering blood filled with oxygen to nourish our muscles and brain…I think about our daily situations. What positive affirmations do we hear causes us to expand? What negative phrases or disagreements cause us to contract? Dr, Dean Ornish writes in his book: Love and Survival. The Scientific Basis for the Healing Power of Intimacy:

“…love and intimacy are at the root of what makes us sick and what makes us well... I am not aware of any factor in medicine -- not diet, not smoking, not stress, not genetics, not drugs, not surgery—that has greater impact on our quality of life, incidence of illness and premature death from all causes.”

A beautiful heart to me is a heart that although maybe overworked from skipping beats, torn from palpitations, a bleed from an emotional rapture…continues to beat still encouraging life and growth. We can sit here and list all of the attributes that make up a heart: compassionate, kind-hearted, giving, sacrificial, nurturing…but a heart that continues to move firmly through the chemicals of life experiences, and through the weight of disenchantment in a failed relationship, is the most worthy of them all.

a-beautiful heart

Nothing to Write

2011-05-21T23:52:00.001-07:00

I’ve had nothing to write about...similar to an open uninhabited desert salivating at the drop of rain. Wait…I'm doing too much. It's not that my life isn’t filled with small anecdotes…perhaps I should say, I haven’t WANTED to write anything.

Sometimes writing makes things so drastically final. And if you’ve come accustomed to the things I write, you’ll see they are mostly positive like I’ve “got it together.” The truth is, I don’t…

Sometimes people find it odd when I’ve had a bad day, week, maybe month. “Antoinette, let me run this past you.” “Antoinette, can you offer me some advice…” “Antoinette, why aren’t you smiling?” The reality is…how in the world can someone expect you to be on all the time?

Last week I had about three different people—completely unrelated in any form or fashion, come to me and tell me a certain colleague was talking about me. It didn’t bother me none, particularly because I don’t care too much for her anyway, but when I saw her I knew I had to say something. I don’t know about you, but my book of the law says “If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over." Well, unfortunately she didn’t listen…she pretty much didn’t care. And it REALLLLYYYY took all of the strength I could muster to not punch her in her face. All in all, her major quorum was she believed I don't speak to her or smile when I see. Which naturallyyyy allowed her to come the conclusion that I am sometimey. [Insert sarcasm here]

But what really bothered me was that her grading scale was comparing me to my twin sister. Nicole is the opposite of me, always smiling and saying hello to everyone. My attitude is what you see is what you get. I don’t know how to smile if someone has crossed me….I didn’t learn how to smile when I have absolutely nothing to smile about it. When I’m happy I’m happy….when I’m not…I’m just not.

Needless to say. I haven’t been writing because I simply didn’t feel like it. I’ve really only been doing what I wanted to do…not because it was right or wrong…but the authenticity in my emotions compelled me to.

If you gain anything from this post it is this: your feelings have authentic value. If you’re happy, share that happiness with the world so much that your smile is contagious. If you’re on the opposite side of the spectrum with your emotions, stay there for a while. Live it, breath it, cry it out, and move on. There’s no use in putting on a band-aid so tight that air doesn’t filter through for healing.

My Encounter with Sexual Abuse

2011-04-16T17:05:00.000-07:00

The Spring 2011 issue of Heed hones in on the topic of abuse. Many of the features and editorials in this edition shed light on the prevalence of abuse—in its many forms— families, communities, and pop culture.

Amongst the stories of celebrities, you will find my personal and transparent encounter with sexual abuse. It was a tough story to write, but I'm glad it's out there. "When Dark Nights Birth A Beautiful Heart"

Support the movement.

Click here to purchase a copy.

How Sweet the Whistle

2011-04-07T11:49:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I was at my favorite nail shop off La Brea and Rodeo about to get all fancy. "chào buổi sáng" good morning I say as I walk into the nail shop. (Yes, don't hate...I know a few vietnamese words). I'm ushered in like VIP, hooked up with the warm water for my toes and offered some water. As soon as Kim starts taking the polish off, she looks at my necklace and stops. A few beats pass and she says, "That whistle...that...whistle...where did you get it?" I said happily like an ignorant American that feels good for any minor donation, "it's for charity, you know about it?" Kim started to cry and said, "yes, I know all about it."

You see, around my neck that day was a whistle necklace. An old school whistle that was symbol of Falling Whistles, (FallingWhistles.com)
a nonprofit started by Sean Carasso after a trip to the war zone fo the Democratic Republic of Congo. I happened to see the whistles hanging up in my favorite shoe boutique in the Beverly Center and after reading the story I purchased two whistles at $34.95. After Sean came upon an illegal prison for children, he learned boys too small to carry guns, are forced out to front-lines armed only with whistles with instructions to make as much noise as possible. As the enemies approached, the children would be shot in hopes to quiet them. Being a mother, I was deeply touched by this story. Children ripped from the loving embrace of their mothers are forced into a prison only to be misused, mistreated, and the valve of their life destroyed.

Upon returning home, Carasso struggled with what to do about the innocent bloodshed in Congo. Then one day, a friend placed a whistle around his neck and said, “No matter where you go, make sure you keep those boys alive in your heart.” It was then that Falling Whistles was born.

It's impossible to know how taking a stand for a wonderfully conscious cause can not only be a conversation starter, but bring about an awareness in places least expected. I was in a nail shop off all places...and a woman a woman from Vietnam, about 6,000 kilometers away from the Congo, knew about the injustice of tiny body's being sacrificed for an inhuman and unjust war.

One of my favorite quotes is, "If you don't stand for nothing, than you'll fall for anything." What will you stand for? Whether its the walk of faith or taking a stand for a positive cause, do it! You'll be surprised by how effective you'll be.

Sex is the Easy Part (Pt. 1)

2011-03-23T22:43:00.000-07:00

I can make you scream, shout, and moan. Toes curling, body thrashing about as if it wasn't your own. I can make the brass, flute, and horn section of your body reach notes darkly beautiful as I am the conductor to your symphony, baby. Headboard knocking the wall on some real, "I think the neighbors know my name."

Can I...touch you there? Taste you and lick you there? Your body moving rhythmically with mine, legs intwined, because I own this. I own this...physical manipulation. Because you see, baby...sex is the easy part.

Sex is the manipulation that gets people in trouble. Your body becomes no longer your own...days spent with a wet "nana" as you cross and uncross your legs under your desk at work...plaguing yourself with memories of your physical dance from the night before. (Does a soul tie ring a bell?)

How many times did you have an argument with your loved one and the only resolve was sex? You see...during sex, no one is responsible for an adult, in-depth conversation. I'm gonna work her so good I'll make her forget. No one is held accountable for a real resolution to a problem.

And let's be real...sex, without the covenant of marriage is complicated. Yes, the bible tells us about fornicators and where they're going. That we must abstain from the appearance of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22)....our bodies are temples (1 Corinthians 6:19)...we have been bought with a price so we should glorify God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:20)...that the marriage bed is the only place that will be undefiled. (Hebrews 13:4) I get this, this is my walk...but this blog is not meant to through bible at you, but use common sense.

God gave you the ability to think, to use your natural thought process, use wisdom. So because God instilled that on the inside of you, you using those devices from an internal place and operating from your moral campus is not you thinking you're the ish but giving thanks to God! (Some of you will get that tomorrow).

Ladies, you should know by now that I'm a "soft feminist." I encourage you to use Godly wisdom and not accept mediocre. You are more than just a good lay, a soft body, and a wet hole. Save that good good for your husband--a man worthy of all of you. The most telling sign of a man that's a complete lame is one who will always divert the conversation to becoming physical. "Babe, I need you." You answer, "why, is everything ok?" "yes," he answers. "I just wish you were my hand is right now." YUP...ladies, run away.

Sex is always the easy part.

RIP Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

Hollywood icon, Elizabeth Taylor was quite possibly the first celebrity sooo glamorous you wanted to not only be, but smell like her. ((Sigh)) Ms. Taylor, 79, passed away today of congestive heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Hospital

In her last notable interview with Harper's Bazaar Mag she says:
“I never planned to acquire a lot of jewels or a lot of husbands, I have been supremely lucky in my life in that I have known great love, and of course, I am the temporary custodian of some incredible and beautiful things.

The former child star and two-time Academy Award winner not only famous for such films: “National Velvet,” “Cleopatra,” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” but she was known for her impressive diamond jewelry collection and a plethora of marriages, twice to Richard Burton and 7 other marriages.

.

Hip Hop Legend Nate Dog Passes at 41

2011-03-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

Fans and celebrities alike are pausing with reflection as word spreads that hip-hop artist and vocalist Nate Dogg passed away today. Rod McGrew, his longtime manager confirmed to CNN that Nate Dogg, born Nathaniel Hale, died at the age of 41.

Celebrities have been tweeting away:

@SnoopDoggSnoop Dogg

We lost a true legend n hip hop n rnb. One of my best friends n a brother to me since 1986 when I was a sophomore at poly high where we met

@LudacrisLudacris

There is a certain void in hip hop's heart that can never be filled.Glad we got to make history together. RT @SnoopDogg: RIP NATE DOGG.

with the top tweet being Erykah Badu's:

@fatbellybellaErykahBadu

Nate Dogg... freshness period. rest in beats.

As of Wednesday, McGrew told CNN that the family has yet to receive an official cause of death, although McGrew believes the artist died of natural causes. Complications from the two strokes Hale suffered in the past few years could have been a factor as well.

Not many of us know of what the lengend was experiencing as it was kept moderately under wraps. May he rest in peace.

here's the story on CNN

I Cried in the Middle of Starbucks

2011-02-25T14:32:00.000-08:00

Two days ago I cried in Starbucks. Any of you who knows me personally is aware of my challenges with people ranging from family members to school teachers labeling my daughter autistic. To put it frankly, my daughter doesn’t fully communicate vocally.

It’s hard when the world is against you and the only comfort you have is trusting your mother instinct. So what did I do? I doubted myself, questioned God, and put my daughter through a series of tests. Now some people reading this post will say, “well, you have to rule out what is it,” “it’s better to catch the issues at a young age.” And naturally, I followed suite. But you know what the problem is? I was treating my daughter like a sickness and mirroring Western medicine. In our Western practices, we use science in a very analytical way...combining chemical compounds to treat our illnesses while ruining our body's natural defenses. And while I admire the doctor's persistence and affluent abilities, the challenge is perception. Doctor's commonly have a rigid focus and treat symptoms with as much medicine our frail bodies can handle instead of adopting holistic views to marry seamlessly with science.

So, I said all that to say…I was treating my daughter as an ailment. I was ruling out all possibilites of what it could be. I was listening to what other’s told me and not trusting my natural maternal instincts. I remember chanting silently to myself, “I am doing the right thing” as I looked into the rearview mirror and saw my daughter’s miserable expression. In her tiny face, I read so much. I read, “mommy, I communicate in a way that’s comfortable for me” “mommy, I show you my love, why do I have to tell you?” “mommy, I’m ok.”

I woke up with a defiant strength 4 weeks ago. THAT’S IT, NO MORE TESTS! No more playful exams with blocks and motor skills assessments…no more piercing eyes watching her every move…silently righting on a pad. THAT STUPID PAD THAT ALL DOCTORS MUST PURCHASE TOGETHER AT SOME WHOLESALE STORE.

Needless to say, two days ago I was waiting on my soy dulce latte with my daughter reading her book. She turned the page, pointed out a few pictures, and said “fishy, red, blue, robot” all of the simple and expected words. Then she turned the page and started smiling. She opened her perfect little mouth and sang, “twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are.” It was there, at that moment that time stood still. I looked at my daughter, dropped to me knees and wrapped my arms around her little body. And there I was with tears streaming down my face, IN THE MIDDLE OF STARBUCKS singing twinkle, twinkle little star.

It’s a beautiful feeling having all of the self-doubt wash away. There is a reason why God blesses us with our children. It’s because He trusts us to raise them, but while we are raising them they are raising us. Let’s let our stars grow and watch as they twinkle.

Beyonce meets Blackface

2011-02-20T16:59:00.000-08:00

L’Officiel, one of the top French magazines, is celebrating it's 90th anniversary and has asked Beyonce to grace it's March 2011. This issue is geared towards honoring legendary Nigerian singer and activist, Fela Kuti and has therefore styled Beyonce in African Garb and--get this--blackface. Yes, you read that correctly. Beyonce willingly let the magazines make up artists paint her face stopping at her neck.

L’Officiel writes,

“The Fashion magazine is about to celebrate its 90th birthday. To celebrate this anniversary, the festivities start with the March issue, with Beyoncé on the cover. She agreed to pose for an incredible fashion shoot, with the theme of African Queen, paying a tribute to the legendary Fela Kuti. Far from the glamorous Sasha Fierce, the beauty posed for the magazine with amazing fashion designers clothes, but also in a dress created by her mother. [It is] A return to her African roots, as you can see on the picture, on which her face was voluntarily darkened. All the pictures will be available in the collector edition, on sell at the end of this month.”

Ok...let's begin with fail # 1 "Far from the glamorous Sasha Fierce" are they insinuating that African culture isn't glamorous r was that statement just badly written? Fail # 2 "A return to her African roots, as you can see on the picture, on which her face was voluntarily darkened" now, typically I take the route of reporting...but COME ON. Even if L' Officiel and Beyonce didn't mean to stir up controversy with the blackface...I wouldn't expect them to be that stupid. Here's the thing you might not know--Beyonce is actually black. So she doesn't NEED to darken her face.

[DISCLAIMER: Here is when I go off on a tangent.] A black women returning to her "African roots"?!?! Beyonce isn't from Africa she's from Houston, Texas...so returning to her roots means returning to texas. I'm a melting pot of black, latin, native american, and european....born and raised in Los Angeles. I would slap the person that told me to return to my roots. And yes, yes, we can speak on the horrible reality of slavery and what took place. People ripped from their families, land, and culture coupled with generation after generation of self-hatred. A self hatred so immense that brothers don't want to mess with anything darker than a milky way so women press their hair on a regular, resort to lightening cremes, or death defying silicone injections. Let's not forget how our brothers and sistas try to "come up" on each other or and blame THE MAN on why they can't find a job--accepting defeat when really that could be translated into lacking the willpower to move forward. These things are all very real...but that's not what we're discussing now.

Back to the matter at hand...this magazine failed for me. I am offended by this sham of a way in honoring Fela Kuti, a man wholly concerned with the freedom of Africans throughout the Diaspora.
At first glance, the photograph just looks ridiculous.

While I understand the impulse to use Beyonce as the model for an “African Queen” since she reigns for black woman under Oprah, would it have been difficult for her to stay as she naturally is? She simply could have been in the editorial with beautiful African attire with a hint of edge. OR why not have Kuti's son, Femi Kuti, or a real African model?

Here's a quick behind the scenes look:

Questions...questions...questions.

The Man I Loved Could Never Love Me

2011-02-19T11:38:00.001-08:00

I recently had the worst day of my life. I realized that the man I love is incapable of loving me the way I need to be loved. Does he love me? Yes...is it the way I need to be loved? No. It's important to know what you need in an individual and not settle for something mediocre. And how does one know how they need to be lived? Through a lot of self reflection, knowing what you like and don't like...having a thorough understanding of your identity.

Now I could go into how he had some chick call me (WITH SOME IRREFUTABLE INFORMATION that made me cry like a baby) but what would be the point? LADIES, there’s SOOOO much more I could get into that would literally tarnish everything he’s worked for…but I have class, and to be honest, a little more concern for his well being than I should so I’ll operate on a higher level.

Sometimes we walk around in a daze…hoping that the person that we have given our hearts to will help us grow, will invest in us, will hang on our every word. That knows what we can and cannot eat (for health reasons) so will be thoughtful in selecting a restaurant. An ultimate witness in our life, through the good decision-making and bad…and his witnessing won't subtract, but will be a seamless and beautiful addition to our life.

I think because women are natural nurturers and philanthropists at heart—we put up with more than what we should. Love is very simple when a person assumes the face of humility, and will sacrifice to make things happen.

When a person reaches a level of success on a minor scale—it’s always a perfect indicator of what’s to come. Ladies, have you ever known a man who was feeling himself so much, he’s incapable of communicating with you? So you sit there and tell yourself, “no, he’s just busy…they’re running him crazy…he’s got a lot on his plate.” Case in point, he took me to dinner and begged me to try to let him be there emotionally for me (well after we broke up, and I had retracted my time and emotions from him). The next day my sister and I came to a disagreement so what did I do? I called him to see his response. Let me just say he failed. We as women always want to give men the benefit of the doubt before they have even earned it from us.

I guess right now I’m on some new sh*^ and being perfectly transparent because otherwise how else would I grow, or would help others grow.

PS..
That "some chick" I mentioned earlier isn't just "some chick." But like I said...HIGH ROAD.

Please Don't Yell...It Hurts My Head

2011-02-07T21:42:00.000-08:00

I find it quite interesting that I find myself in a paradox of sorts...on one end I'm getting e-mails from readers asking to write more on media and gossip. On the other hand, I'm getting Christian's asking me why I am writing any secular topics it all. And although I appreciate your concern...did sending an e-mail in all caps make you feel better. (Yes, you...I'm talking to YOU).

Let me put it simply...this is my blog; AKA...an outlet for my expression. My banner has always been "AtypicalAnecdote: God, Life, and Observations all aggregated in a progressive pot of goodness." Let's dissect the matter...this blog is my pot of gumbo...and in that gumbo I speak on my religious beliefs, and mainstream stories that draw some type of surprising emotion from me.Whether is draws my sarcasm, anger, love...I'll write on it.

I love that each of you read my blogs and send me e-mails on them. Just know that I am not that writer that falls into a certain type of genre...exploration is key to elevation.

What's Going on in Eqypt?

2011-01-31T15:49:00.000-08:00

The world hasn’t seen this kind of protesting in Egypt since the 1970’s. Thousands of people—men, woman, and children—are taking to the street to protest the autocratic governance of President Hosni Mubarak. The people of Egypt are tired of government corruption, poverty, and seemingly uncontrollable unemployment.
As protest leaders began assimilating their groups via Twitter, the Egyptian government responded by blocking Twitter and then proceeded to block facebook. Twitter responded by developing a tweet feature based on a voicemail.Here's what they said on their blog:

We worked with a small team of engineers from Twitter, Google and SayNow, a company we acquired last week, to make this idea a reality. It’s already live and anyone can tweet by simply leaving a voicemail on one of these international phone numbers (+16504194196 or +390662207294 or +97316199855) and the service will instantly tweet the message using the hashtag #egypt. No Internet connection is required. People can listen to the messages by dialing the same phone numbers or going to twitter.com/speak2tweet.

Here's communication from one of the top journalist's in the field now:

Christian Egyptian’s are also aggregating a series of protection for the Muslim Egyptians for their prayer Friday. With is humbling is always the human spirit…religion, ethnicity, tax bracket, holds no creed in times of need and despair. I’ll update you all when I find out more details.

Bet You Didn't Know--Talib Kweli released an Album TODAY!

2011-01-26T17:05:00.000-08:00

Tablib Kweli said in an interview with Lipshultz on Billboard when questioned about his TV spot for Pepsi Max's NFL playoffs campaign:

"There's a segment of my fan base that wants to believe that I'm in some basement somewhere with a notebook, with a backpack on, writing rhymes to Eminem instrumentals or something," says Kweli. "So the idea that at this point [is that] I'm 35 years old and there's no music business, and I have grown man responsibilities, so of course I'm going to get paid for my craft. And I'm going to work with companies that are willing to support the lifestyle."

I respect that. What most of you don't know--unless you out searching for that good hip hop is that Kewl's 5th album "Gutter Rainbows" was released digitally today. You can cop that on itunes here.

President Obama's State of the Union Address

2011-01-26T16:38:00.000-08:00

President Obama said a few things that would make even the most rigorous Libertarian sit up a little taller in their chair. To be perfectly honest, I have not been as pleased with his term or his decisions but I have slowly come around to being pro Obama again. Although I would have liked to watch his address with my grandmother last night, my daughter had other things in mind.

I sat and listened to this man who had promised so much at the beginning of his term and had failed. I then thought about how his presence alone seemed to be the unifying force for all ethnicities and how he is simply the most progressive President since FDR. You could tell from jump that as republican and democrats sat side by side, there was a little bit of a stale attitude creeping from the audience and out of the television. Democrats who usually leap from their chairs with admiration and joy politely sat and clapped as they agreed with what the President said their neighbor Republican looked head on.

I was waiting on him to tackle a few issues head that seemed to cause unrest in the American people. He said, “I've heard rumors that a few of you have some concerns about the new health care law," Obama joked. On curbing illegal immigration, Obama did little beyond expressing his support for tackling the issue and acknowledging that it will be "difficult and take time". The White House knows that Obama entered tonight's speech with genuine political momentum following last year's lame-duck Congressional session and the reaction to his handling of the Tucson tragedy. The speech then was geared to play it somewhat safe, offering up a popular message -- America needs to "win the future" -- and not engaging on some of the issues that dominated political discourse over the past two years.

This blog is not meant to give a blow by blow of what was spoken about…but as I mentioned before, after I sat with my 4 year and listened to a man whose complexion mirrors my own, how he compliments his white grandmother for instilling in him—much like my background---I’d like to remain hopeful. Prayerfully he has a plan for his feel good words and I can again jump out of my seat with as much enthusiasm as I had on Nov. 4^th of 2008.

REPOST: Just An Observance on MLK Day

2011-01-17T03:16:00.000-08:00

But how should we honor a man who wanted to overturn the entire edifice so that ALL PEOPLE could practice, justice, charity, and love toward one another?

Is Usher Alright?

2011-01-14T21:06:00.000-08:00

Usher has been on his OMG tour for a lifetime it seems. Last Wednesday night he cancelled his sold out show in Berlin "due to illness" according to ushernow.com. He tried coming back for a make up, but he only lasted five songs. When it was time to sing, "There Goes My Baby," he just couldn't do it.

Responding to his fans while they booed him off stage, Usher promptly apologized. What sucks is Usher's fans in Berlin aren't eligible for a refund because technically, he did perform.

What the video below. The action starts around 1:28.

My Daughter Brought Me Closer to God

2010-12-28T23:46:00.000-08:00

Two years ago on the fourth of July, my daughter brought me closer to God. I remember sitting with my daughter in my lap on the porch with our family watching fireworks light the sky. Each time a firework would go off, my daughter would bury her little face in my neck when the thundering noise would frighten her followed by a quick contradictory laugh.

“Nevaeh,” her uncle called. “Nevaeh, come here…come see what I have.” My daughter looked up to see her uncle holding a streamer. She quickly ran over to take a look. Just then, my neighbor lit a firework, must have been 10 feet away. Within seconds it sounded like a bomb had landed in the front yard…stunned, I looked for Nevaeh and there she was laying face down at the bottom of our concrete stairs.

My world stopped. Every thing moved in slow motion. My daughter didn’t just fall down a flight of stairs?! I remember my hands shook uncontrollably as I reached out to pick her up. I slowly turned her over as she gasped and flailed about…frantic for air. Next, she opened her tiny mouth and a piercing cry escaped her lips—a cry I had never heard before.

While my sister drove to the hospital, I was in the back seat frantically trying to calm her. There was blood all over her shirt, everywhere…no matter how much tissue I held to her mouth, it wasn’t enough. She would try to rub her head and I kept saying… “Baby, I wish I could take your pain. I wish you could just give it all to me.” After all, couldn’t I deal with the pain better? Wasn’t I more equipped?

We went through the normal procedures that night. The ER nurse treated her lip and gums that had been split. This is all my fault. I watched as the nurse laid her swaddled body on the hospital bed and followed as they moved her to radiology. This is all my fault. Tears stained my silk blouse as I helplessly watched them give her a CAT Scan. I felt like I had failed as a parent, while feelings of guilt washed over me—This is all my fault.

By the grace of God, they released us within 4 hours. Her test results came back normal and we were prescribed some pretty strong pain relievers for the bump beginning to form on her head as well as proper packing for her mouth. I cried for the 15^th time that day and tried to not think about all that could have been.

On the way home, watching my daughter sleep, I began to think about God, Abba—our Father. I began to think about His love...His unyielding and sacrificial love. I began to think about how many times He watched us hurt ourselves in our disobedience and felt pain for us. How God must have wanted to take Jesus’ pain away as he watched His Son on the Cross. How it must have felt to watch His Son experience insurmountable amounts of pain as they nailed His flesh into the wood and placed thorns about His head…as they stabbed his side…How God most have wanted to hold Jesus in His arms …to console Him, to show Him He did not forsake Him that day on Calvary…yet knowing what Jesus’ purpose was, God waited like a parent in a waiting room…

Through my daughter’s pain, I experienced a slight revelation to the personification of our God Almighty, El Shaddai. I began to thank Him like never before. God is not a man where He cannot bare our burdens…where He cannot take our pains…and give us joy. Because what does he say?

Psalm 68:19 Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah

Exodus 18:10 He said, "Praise be to the LORD, who rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians and of Pharaoh, and who rescued the people from the hand of the Egyptians.

1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

Jude 1:24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy—

Psalm 30:5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

I am enjoying the rollercoaster ride of my faith, and of a being parent. I have hereby humbled myself to lessons learned through the joys of parenthood.

SHALOM.

Teena Marie Dies at 54

2010-12-26T20:56:00.000-08:00

Having just come from a hoax on Twitter on Morgan Freeman's alleged death, I was a little skeptical on the new's of Teena Marie's passing, but sadly--it is a reality. The confirmation came Sunday from publicist Jasmine Vega, who worked with Teena Marie on her last album. Her manager, Mike Gardner, also confirmed her death to CNN.

I had the pleasure of meeting the "Ivory Queen of Soul" who is best known for her hit songs, "Lovergirl", and "I'm a Sucker For Your Love", while working on Showtime at the Apollo many years ago. I'm sad to say her daughter, reportedly found Marie's body at her home. The cause of death has yet to be confirmed.

A death in the family is hard, but what makes it exceptionally hard is it is directly following a major holiday of which a few hours ago Marie posted on Twitter, ""May Gods Light always shine on you and your family! May you have the most joyous Holliday season ever! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!"

My prayers are definitely with her loved ones.

After 10 years, Carine Roitfeld is Leaving French Vogue Magazine!

2010-12-26T20:37:00.000-08:00

I first learned the news of Carine Roitfeld's departure from visiting one of my favorite blogs, The Sartorialist at blogspot, ran by Scott Shumen. Naturally I did some investigation, and it's true...after 10 years as the editor in chief of French Vogue, Carine Roitfeld has announced her departure from the magazine at the end of January.

The 56-year-old, renowned as one of the most influential names in fashion, initially began her career as a model before switching to styling and eventually becoming Tom Ford's muse. She landed the role of French Vogue editor in 2001.

In a telephone interview with the New York Times' Cathy Horyn, Roitfeld explained: "It's 10 years that I'm editor of the magazine. I think it's time to do something different." As the fashion typically loves a good scandal, there is none to report as of yet. All that is said is that Roitfeld is leaving to pursue personal projects.

Vogue will announce Roitfeld's successor, within the next couple of weeks.

Racial Anti-Abortion Ad in Austin

2010-12-24T01:13:00.000-08:00

This national ad disturbed me. On one end, I appreciate it being a nice relief from the sickening abortion ads and of course, I am pro-life...but to specifically have a campaign that targets abortion in minority communities that's ridden with guilt is astounding and irritating. The sign says, " The most dangerous place for some children is in the womb," why not just have a campaign called the guilt campaign? I think what's more important is letting young lady's know that first, God has forgiven you, but perhaps the larger part is forgiving yourself and taking preventative measures against unplanned pregnancy.

We don't need anymore campaigns that highlight abortion factories as "Planned Parenthood." One abortion every 15 minutes...teens in and out, without the proper knowledge of what they have done, subjected their bodies to, or how to prevent a pregnancies in the future. Might I add that the founder of Planned Parenthood is recorded saying the goal is to, "stop the reproduction of the unfit" and that an African American baby is three times more likely to be aborted than the rest of the population.

Here's the problem...we have young lady's who are placed in compromising situations, who have experienced rape or molestation which alters their perception on love. We have young lady's brought up in a household where it's "cool" to get a baby daddy. When that young lady gets pregnant, decides to have an abortion because visually (thanks to the awesome campaigns) where are the counseling or educational classes?

This is a widespeard issue that needs a resolution. The solution, however, does not include propelling abortion clinics to be the first option. If treated at the source--starting with parents and "health" education, we're better equipping our young ones to make "grown up decisions" and handle themselves in a manor that is both respectful to their bodies, to God, and their future.

Student Cons His Way Into Harvard

2010-12-19T00:42:00.000-08:00

Adam Wheeler, 24, lied his way into Harvard and benefited from more than $40,000 in grants!
Sound's like another movie is about erupts...click here to read the full story.

The Kardashian's Holiday Portrait

2010-12-16T17:42:00.000-08:00

VS...

...go figure

Winona Ryder--1st to Admit Mel Gibson Was allll Messed up

2010-12-16T13:22:00.000-08:00

“Black Swan” star Winona Ryder remembers Mel Gibson being “anti-Semitic and homophobic” long before his taped racist rants were broadcast across the world.

She says in the January issue of GQ, , “Fifteen years ago, I was at one of those big Hollywood parties. And he was really drunk and I was with my friend, who’s gay. Mel made a really horrible gay joke. And somehow it came up that I was Jewish."

Melly Mel just can't get a break...

Elizabeth Edwards Has Passed

2010-12-08T14:02:00.000-08:00

Just as news hit the blogosphere surrounding Elizabeth Edwards' doctor's releasing a statement saying she had a few weeks to live, it has now been confirmed that the estranged wife of former Vice-President John Edwards', has passed.

It is no secret that Edwards has been bravely battling breast cancer since 2004. This week Monday, it was reported that her cancer had spread to her liver and that she was no longer receiving treatment.

John Edwards and her 3 children were beside her at her time of death. The funeral for Elizabeth Edwards is open to the public and will be held at Edenton Street United Methodist Church at 1:00PM.

The church is the same one where the funeral for Edwards's son Wade was held when he died and Edwards will lovingly be placed beside her son in the nearby Oakwood Cemetery. My prayers are with the Edwards family for their strength!

Loneliness During the Holiday Season

2010-12-07T17:29:00.001-08:00

The holiday season is a time of giving, cherishing time with family and friends--the epitome of hope and joy. But let us remember that while we are enjoying the fruits of the holiday's there are some who smile while inside they are hurting--because to them, the holiday season is synonymous with the passing of loved ones, lost relationships, or dark childhood memories.

Loneliness is the only prison where we sentence ourselves and voluntarily carry out that punishment. It’s a difficult place when we position ourselves to sit in areas of desolate solitude all the nurturing ourselves—hoping the holiday season will end with haste.

If you are wrestling with the seeming insoluble virus of loneliness, know that there is a cure. And the cure isn’t some mystery that only can be obtained by in-depth counseling or seminary…but it involves a willingness to be guided down a path towards a healthy and wholesome you.

Loneliness is cured by a bold desire to reclaim your life despite your circumstance, to acknowledge that God is right beside you despite your individual situation or what others may tell you.

Remember that God is right there to pick you up and mount up as wings on eagles, where you will run and not be weary you will walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

Deuteronomy 4:31 (New International Version)

31 For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your ancestors, which he confirmed to them by oath

1 Samuel 12:22 (New International Version)

²² For the sake of his great name the LORD will not reject his people, because the LORD was pleased to make you his own.

Psalm 27:10 (New International Version)

¹⁰ Though my father and mother forsake me,
the LORD will receive me.

Psalm 31:7 (New International Version)

⁷ I will be glad and rejoice in your love,
for you saw my affliction
and knew the anguish of my soul.

Psalm 46:1 (New International Version)

¹ God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.

Psalm 55:22 (New International Version,)

²² Cast your cares on the LORD
and he will sustain you;
he will never let
the righteous be shaken.

Psalm 112:4 (New International Version)

⁴ Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous

Psalm 147:3 (New International Version)

³ He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.

World AIDS Day

2010-12-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

AIDS…the mere mention of the word conjures fear—fear stemming from not properly being educated on the contraction of the virus. The harsh fact of the virus remains; last year, nearly half a million babies were born HIV positive. Currently more than 33 million people worldwide are suffering with HIV and over 7,300 more are infected every day…what’s even more astounding is that 1 in 5 does not know they have the virus.

Karen Timberlake, Department of Health Services Secretary said. “Anyone can become infected with HIV, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, gender identity, or socioeconomic circumstance. Some of our communities are especially hard hit by HIV, making it vitally important to focus our efforts on helping people with the greatest need for prevention and treatment services.”

Our church realizes the impact we can make and have therefore teamed up with Save Africa’s Children in partnership with ONE Campaign and are aggressively working towards expelling the virus by 2015.

We invite you to partake in our service tonight! We would love to have you hear to help us join in the fight to raise awareness.

West Angeles North Campus
3045 Crenshaw Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90018
@ 7:00PM

If you cannot physically join us, then why not team up with us online? Visit us at webtv.westa.org/live we’d love to have you.

Adam Sandler's Turkey Day

2010-11-25T13:34:00.001-08:00

A Visionary: Presiding Bishop, Charles E. Blake, 1st Pastor in 100 years to Unite 1200 Churches Online

2010-11-20T14:15:00.000-08:00

Every Pastor is expected to call upon the Godly wisdom and past experiences of previous Church leaders to help chart the pathway to the future for their congregation. But the extraordinary presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination has searched beyond the immediate horizons. Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake called on his deep historical knowledge and wisdom, combined with his vision of the challenge the church faces in the technological present and made a decision that would expand the church’s reach and offer opportunities for a greater sense of community within a global landscape.

Because Bishop Blake is a true visionary, in 2006 he saw a future for the church that could safely be entrusted to his younger, technologically gifted staff. In a time when few Churches actually employed a Web Team, Bishop Blake recruited his own team at West Angeles COGIC and challenged them once to take strides in technological innovation for West Angeles COGIC, and yet again—in strategically laying a foundation for online worship for the 103rd Holy Convocation in St. Louis, Missouri.

Every year, thousands of saints across the world congregate for the Holy Convocation--hoping for a shift and expecting a deeper revelation than ever before. Historically hosted in Memphis, Tennessee; the atmosphere was thirsting for a renewal. Like the multitudes of old, the numbers this year were doubled and tripled--through technology. For every saint physically present, there were two gathered in worship around their computer screen.

In the past, The Church of God in Christ, with members both nationally and internationally, were never able to experience such a unifying event online until last week. But now, because of the age of technology and Bishop Blake’s prophetic vision, members from Brazil, Canada, Germany, Africa, and the United States were able to sit from the comfort of their home and join into to each service.

Many wrote in their thankfulness in having the opportunity to partake online because of physical conditions, financial strains, and other unfortunate circumstances that forced them to stay home. Not only were member able to view each service, but were also given the option to simultaneously chat about and share their experience across the social spectrum. Hits to the site was nothing less than miraculously synonymous with the events in the book of acts as a charted total of 10.5 million hits to cogicislive.com were recorded. And now that the Holy Convocation has ended, members still have the opportunity to fellowship with one another through cogicislive.com/myexperience

Charles E. Blake, known as the Presiding Bishop for the Church of God in Christ denomination, and council member to President Obama’s Faith Based Initiative, can be now known as the futuristic Bishop of technology.

Tony Parker Cheats on Eva Longoria

2010-11-17T11:49:00.001-08:00

GASP! Now...I don't think anyone saw this coming. Hollywood doesn't really give much hope to the monogamus, committed, till death do you part, romance.

After 3 years of marriage, Eva Longoria has filed for divorce. Multiple sources tell Us Weekly that the couple's marriage fell apart when Longoria discovered the basketball star was having an affair with a mutual female friend for nearly a year. Among her alleged findings were hundreds of text messages between Parker and the unidentified other woman.
"Eva is heartbroken by the betrayal," one insider tells the mag.

Parker reportedly pleaded for forgiveness after admitting to his infidelity.
"Eva truly thought she was going to grow old with Tony and have children with him," says an insider. "She's inconsolable."
The actress filed for divorce in Los Angeles Wednesday, citing the standard irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split.
Longoria, 35, and Parker, 28, married on July 7, 2007 in a 17th century castle outside Paris.

TSK TSK TSK...of course this asks, "will a man always be a man?!"

I've Been Away

2010-11-17T11:47:00.000-08:00

Hey all, I've neglected the blogging world for a total of 15 days. My apologies...I had to back to back trips and then I got a lil sick, but I'm better now. I'M BACK!

Happy Birthday Dizzy Gillespie

2010-10-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

Today, Google pays tribute to the great Dizzy Gillespie. John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie is one of the most influential figures of jazz. He first revolutionized jazz as being one of the inventors of bebop, and the richness of his rhythms carries through multiple forms of music, Afro-Cuban, Caribbean, and Brazilian in particular.

The sounds of Dizzy are easily recognizable by his passion and his somewhat obscure melodies flowing from a broken trumpet that someone fell on backstage at one of his earlier shows. And although his music would proceed his face, no one could mistake the great bellowing cheeks as his trademark.

Later he played with all the hot shots in jazz, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton, Earl Hines, Billie Holliday, Thelonious Monk, and Bird Parker to--to name a few. ;)

Perhaps, the upcoming years, after his death could be best described by Dizzy himself, "The music of Charlie Parker and me laid a foundation for all the music that is being played now. . . . Our music is going to be the classical music of the future." Today he would have been 93 years old. Thank you for your musical genius, Dizzy.

Who are "The Poor?"

2010-10-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

Often times I feel like a forced bystander when I hear a family, a country, or a continent described as "the poor." The term "the poor" forces me to think of those who got dealt a bad deck, set-back, or disadvantaged. I never understood why PEOPLE, living, breathing, smiling, caring, wonderful PEOPLE were classified in a way to remove them from our minds.

Every time an infomercial comes on we think, "hmmm, I really ought to help those people" as if somehow we're privileged and above it all when the truth of the matter is, we are a country built on the backs of FREE LABOR, earth shattering, ripping lives apart--stolen labor. Let's also not forget that during WWI AND WWII, if we hadn't sold arms and ammunition to "allies" causing nations to owe large amounts of money to the US where would our wealth be? If we hadn't gotten in bed with countries devastated by bombs for "reconstruction," and charged them insurmountable amounts of money to rebuild, where would we be? Oh, and let's not forget us controlling governments of a number of countries which, as if by surprise, subsequently puts the US in the position to control their economy.

But to bring it back, our mental recognition of "the poor" bothers me, and I say "our" because I can be accused of that as well. I think Nikki Giovanni said it best in her poem "Nikki Rosa," although somewhat racist.

Childhood remembrances are always a drag

if you’re Black

....

and if you become famous or something

they never talk about how happy you were to have

your mother

all to yourself and

how good the water felt when you got your bath

from one of those

big tubs that folk in chicago barbecue in

and somehow when you talk about home

it never gets across how much you

.....and I really hope no white person ever has cause

to write about me

because they never understand

Black love is Black wealth and they’ll

probably talk about my hard childhood

and never understand that

all the while I was quite happy

If we replace the two subject matters " black," as "the poor" and "white person," (journalist) as

"society as a whole" then perhaps you'll feel me on this. Instead of categorizing them as "the

poor" let's deal with what it is...POVERTY. Lands stricken by consistent civil wars, stolen

goods, and maliciously deceptive government.

Take a look at the video below of Jessica Jackley giving a speech at the TED convention. Jessica Jakley is the co-founder of Kiva.org, an online community that helps individuals loan small amounts of money, called microloans, to entrepreneurs throughout the world.

Let me know what you think.

I think, overall...what we need is a holistic approach to poverty with specialized organizations. And correct me if I'm wrong, but I think providing consistent food, healthcare and shelter is definitely an important complement to what was discussed here.

Willow Smith's Official Video

2010-10-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

Willow Smith's official video for "Whip My Hair" debuted yesterday, October 18th, on BET'S 106 and Park. I would have posted this yesterday, but I took a "blog break." Yes, I'm allowed. The video was directed by Ray King and I'm assuming from the video, Willow's goal is to bring some life into an otherwise bland world.

Take a look and let me know what you think.

I Just Wanna Be Successful (no pun intended Drake)

2010-10-17T00:36:00.000-07:00

I want my success to have the same characteristics of a fountain. Pulling in and pushing out a wealth of knowledge. Giving back the quarters of wishes thrown into me. Captivating crowds with an alien act of sharing, but better yet….seducing. Because that’s what knowledge should be…foreplay.

I want an explosian of an exchange like Kings Fahd’s fountain in Jeddah and emulate strength like the Archibald Fountain in Sydney. Perhaps the transference of my success could spellbind admirers like the Tivoli Fountain in Italy or I could show up and show out like the Bellagio Fountains in Vegas.

Whatever the case may be, I’ve always been an advocate in returning what I’ve been given and for better lack of words...getting off on it.

HT: Smith

Alica Keys and Swizz Beatz Welcome a Baby Boy

2010-10-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

The musical duo gave birth to a baby boy named Egypt Dauode Dean (Dean is Swizz' last name) late in New York's St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital.

Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys began dating in 2008, while he was still married (sorry, just reinforcing facts here), romantically involved around May of 2009 and announced their engagement in May of 2010.

Swizz tweeted:

"

@THEREALSWIZZZSWIZZ BEATZ

I'm so thankful for everything I been blessed with in my life wowwwwww! #realtalk"

This child is a first for Alicia Keys and a fourth for Swizz Beatz. (Inhale...exhale, Mashondra--you'll be alright, mama).

Police: Women at College Party Possibly Drugged

2010-10-11T10:32:00.001-07:00

I can't express over and over again how important it is to fully equip and arm our children when they go out.
Here are some tips from their guest, Bill Stanton--safety and security expert:

1. If you are having a drink, watch where the bartender makes the drink: if you don't see it, don't drink it.
2. Girls, travel in two's or three's
3. Women, take a look online to fully see the statics of women who are taken advantage.

More importantly, he says, "this is the age that is no longer, 'Drugs, Sex, & Rock N' Roll, it's the age of Drugs, Sex, & Control'"

Alexander McQueen protege Sarah Burton Steals the Show

2010-10-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

Sarah's words after the tragic death of McQueen were, "The creation of modern, beautifully crafted clothes was at the heart of Lee’s vision. I intend to stay true to his legacy,” Burton staying true to her word debuted the label's Spring 2011 line filled with elaborate detailing, perfectly executed construction, and whimsical detailing.

Sarah Burton was once McQueen’s second in command, the first and only design assistant giving commercial direction to Lee’s incredible genius. It was a partnership that worked- with Burton heading up womenswear for 14 years. She was the label’s intern who never left.

A master of tailoring who trained on Saville Row, Burton also carried forward these qualities with the folding and suit cuts on display. The overall tone to the show was a bit softer than McQueen however, there's no dramatic details paired with true craftmanship, on the leaf grating, woven and tulle numbers in particular, would surely have done McQueen proud.

The Weather Channel

2010-10-04T11:06:00.001-07:00

Am I the only dummy who's wearing sandals on a rainy day? Just for giggles, here's today and tomorrow's forecast.

CMillian is Pregnant...Again?

2010-10-04T11:01:00.000-07:00

Christina Millian allegedly announced over the weekend that she is pregnant again. The pseudo singer was photographed at Coldwater Canyon in Beverly Hills over the weekend with baby V for a bday celebration.

Now, I've always wanted to like @CMillian, she does have a little talent...BUT if she is pregnant again, it's safe to say she's focused on an alternate career route.

I'll keep you posted on the details.

My People

2010-10-04T00:07:00.000-07:00

I don’t have a “my people.” At least not in your conventional since. “My people” used to be who surrounded me in my neighborhood with similar features. It used to be the ones called black, although black seems to be the only word associated with different hues of golden browns to enriched mahogany.

The cliché of “my people” have now dwindled away. I do not identify with the stagnant ideas, notions, or the methodology of trying to get over. I don’t identify with the hook up at the gas station, the “I’ma just get a rich baby daddy,” or “I know someone who can get that Evo for free.” I don’t identify with the mockery made of my love of asymmetrical designs or abstract patterns—and what sucks is if I told them the truth of it being a Gucci design, they’d be on it by name alone.

I have now embraced a new set of people-ones who have emerged through a cocoon surrounded by bullshit and have reawakened into the ones that are hungry. Ones that are focused on the upward climb instead of a downward spiral of all things flashy. My people are not categorized by color or gender, label or vintage, prius or maserati--but for they that treat their goals as children—nurturing them, investing in them—A TRUE “no child left behind.” My people are infused with positivity and admit they know nothing and in that admittance, they have become geniuses.

And although it saddens me to leave some behind, I’m fascinated by who I’ll meet along the way. No one ever said hard work would be easy, and perhaps if it were easy—we’d never realize when we’ve made it.

Willow Smith Signs with Jay-Z

2010-09-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

Willow Smith, the 9-year-old daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, has released her first single, 'Whip My Hair,' which has already been viewed over 300,000 times on YouTube after 2 days of being released.

Jay-Z said in an interview with Ryan Secrest this morning:

"I heard the record first before I knew that it was recorded by a nine year old and I was like, man that record's a smash," Jay-Z said, "I believe in superstars. I believe on big records on superstars and I think she has both."

"She has a child's innocence but she has a clear vision of who she is and who she wants to be," Jay-Z said, comparing Willow to a young Michael Jackson.

Many people suggest she’s too young to step into the music game…but let us not forget that beauty’s like Britney Spears, and Fergie all started out around 9 on MMC. AND Raven Symone put out a single when she was 8 written by Missy Elliot called “That’s What Little Girls Are Mad Of.”

At any rate, I'm feeling this one...Justin Bieber eat your heart out.

You're Not Dating Him...You're Dating His Woman

2010-09-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

Ladies, no one is really saying this…but I’ll just say…when you’re dating a man that’s involved with someone, you’re not dating him…you’re dating HIS WOMAN.

Now, take a deep breath and think about it. AND I MEAN REALLY THINK ABOUT. You feelin’ him because he compliments you? Because he knows how to tell you if your eyeshadow looks amazing? Because he says, “you wearing them shoes.” The point is…he knows how to say certain things because HIS WOMAN has pointed them out. Because she has molded him into the perfect, articulate, mature, well groomed man that you and your girlfriend’s 3-way call cuz you can’t believe he says (let me roll my eyes) all the right things.

As we get older, it seems we’re more desperate to not want to be alone. But please, for the sake of REAL woman…stop messing with that taken man. How dare you force yourself to believe, “baby, I only wear the ring to keep the chicken heads off. I only want you,” knowing darn well you cringe every time the light reflects off it. How dare you go get your vajayjay waxed just “in case” his needing a shoulder to lean on translates into needing a wet hole?

Stay strong ladies. Your days away from that special breakthrough that you need, just believe in yourself. Mr. Right will come along...but only when you’re on your own individual path to success.

Where Are You From?

2010-09-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

I was born in books...a subject only a writer could conceive of. One who understood words as verbs. Laced with perfect metaphor; Therefore, poetry in motion. Intricate from a BC tapestry, now tied with the Most High’s Ancestry.

Is Chris Brown A Problem For "Takers"?

2010-09-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

News across the web is centralizing on Chris Brown possibly being a problem for Takers. Although one of the producers for the film, Will Packer, said Brown’s legal troubles had nothing to do with the release date, the facts are clear. Filming for Takers began in 2008 and has been delayed MULTIPLE times. His optimism is comforting to Brown’s career as he says, “I think this will give him the opportunity to have the focus on something positive he has done, which are hard work and a great performance," Packer said.

In weeks leading up to the release of Takers, Brown’s face has actually been removed from most of the advertisement…sheesh.

And according to CNN, pop culture expert, S. Tia Brown says, “the marketing has been smart in that while the film has a majority African-American cast, it has managed so far to avoid being typecast, while still courting that demographic.” She also goes on to say, “"It was shot in a way which doesn't make you think 'black movie,'" Brown said.”All of the guys are in custom suits and they are classy crooks, not drug dealers or something stereotypical." Now…I typically love the words that effortlessly flow from Ms. S. Tia Brown…but let’s be real…this whole movie is a stereotype. I’m glad they not saggn, with gold teeth, sucking on chicken bones in the back of a car to small for 24’s…but the majority of the film’s actors are black…playing bank robbers. It’s not the kind of blatant disrespect in my previous post, but more visually gentle in a Hollywood sort of way.

There’s no question that the gentlemen bandits look fabulous strolling away from explosions but really, the film itself took a bunch of second-string actors too young to get a role in 'The Expendables' and put them in a very average cops and robbers flick.

Kudos to my baby daddy-Michael Ealy…always a good a sight for me. Wait…did I just type that?

Think Before You Speak

2010-08-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

What does, "I'm just telling it like it is" mean? I can't STAND when someone says that has an excuse to be overly rude. There are ways to say things to someone that won't ignite an emotional response to you "telling it like it is."

I find there is an extreme difference in people who "tell it like it is" and people who "keep it real." Most people who say they are telling it like it is, don't keep it real. They're manipulators of emotions and circumstances. Does it sound like I'm venting? Perhaps...I'm just allergic to mess... especially if I'm the recipient of a late night teary eyed phone call from one of my ace's over someone "keeping it real."

The moral of my thought bubble is this...think before you speak. Don't just go shooting off at the mouth based off a feeling.

My grandmother once told me, "baby, people will forget what you say, but they'll never forget how you make them feel."

Interesting for a Homewrecker

2010-08-24T11:23:00.000-07:00

Just found out that Alicia Keys (@aliciakeys) and Swizz Beatz (@therealswizzz) uploaded each other's 17 year-old pictures as their background.

Is it just me that finds it oddly funny that Beatz still doesn't have his twitter account verified?

Homewreckers Need Love Too…

Congrats Miss Universe 2010

2010-08-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

The Miss Universe 2010 pageant was filled with excitement and suspense as women from all over the world competed for the coveted title but only one woman could walk away with the crown. Our new Miss Universe is Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete!

Many people believed Miss Philippines Venus Raj would take the crown followed by Colombia and Guatemala. Are you happy with the results?

Top 10 Funny Words According to Antoinette R. Banks

2010-08-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

Don't laugh at the title...I'm reemphasizing that it may not be funny to you, but it sure is to me.

I’m a low key nerd when it comes to it. I love technology, I like museums, understanding how things work and so on…I’m full of USEFUL facts that find a way of blurting themselves out from time to time.

Maybe I should go on Jeopardy? Hmmm.…

Anyway, I wanted to share with you the top 10 Funniest Words according to me. Some because of their spelling and some because of their meaning. Watch when you read it…you’ll see what I mean.

Abibliophobia—the fear of running out of reading material
Anencephalous—Lacking a brain. (I’ve used this when talking to my boss. Makes me laugh EVERYTIME)
Brouhaha—a loud uproar
Bowyang—A strap that hold the pant legs together. (I can’t even begin to explain why this is funny to me).
Cockalorum—A small conceited man (if I have to explain why…please don’t comment on this blog)
Callipygian—Having an attractive boo-tay! (This is funny only because there’s an actually word for MY butt lol)
Ecdysiast—An exotic dancer. (Say the word slowly—you’ll get it)
Quean—A scandalous woman. (When your man calls you his Queen, make sure it’s QuEEN and not QuEAn)
Ranivarious—Frog-eating (The word is funny to me)
Vomitary—An exit or outlet. (This one makes me chuckle)

What are your favorite funny words? Let’s all have a nerd moment.

I Thought I'd Never Say This

2010-08-17T11:54:00.001-07:00

"Someday, you're going to wish to be a kid again," said my mother. My personal and quiet rebuttal at 14 was, "hellllllllll no, I can't do anything!" but alas she was right. I enjoy the freedom of adulthood, but what I miss more is me trusting my inner child's spontaneity. There have been too many times where a child's belief in fantasy and the never ending possibilities were needed and my mind simply said, "no, not possible."

Last night I was trying to get some writing done and my 3 year old kept screaming and laughing and because I was so engrossed in my web of words, I yelled, "keep it down." Instantly, I felt guilty and thought, "Antoinette, you're horrible. Go laugh with your daughter." I broke out the brushes and paints and we painted for hours-most of the paint on each other than the canvas. Not only did my daughter learn more about colors and mixing them, we had a great time doing it.

Who says being an adult is synonymous with being stern and uncompromising? Why do we limit ourselves and mask it by saying, "I'm just being realistic?"

I challenge you to imprint your adult self with one characteristic from your childhood everyday. Put a bow in your hair, eat a scoop of ice cream, run through your house, ask "why" a million times, whisper a secret in someone's ear, and laugh uncontrollably.

You will start to see your work getting done faster, your stress levels go done, and a better attitude. If, and I cringe while I'm typing this, IF I do get wrinkles, I'd rather them be from a smile than a frown.

First Artist to Stream Studio Sessions--SENS MUSIQ

2010-08-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

I've written about him before, and I'm writing about him again. SENS MUSIQ- one of the best lyricist to step out of the norm has first surprised me with his integral lyrics and I am YET AGAIN surprised with his social media integration.

Sens Musiq is the first artist to EVER live stream his studio sessions. His first live stream took place last week on USTREAM via his creative director's channel and he will be LIVE from Edit-block again tonight in the ramp up to releasing his album at 6:00PM PST.

His Mixtape, "From My Heart to God's Ears V1" is scheduled to drop in just a few weeks along with his release party--which is kept on a hush hush for now. Most of the details are secret, but my readers will definitely be the first to hear once the location has been revealed.

Sens Musiq is represented by BlaukMarket and his publicist can be reached via blaukmarket@gmail.com. I'm excited to hear what he'll come up with next.

Happy Birthday Mr. President!!

2010-08-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Our president is 49 today! President Barack Obama got a couple of birthday presents that didn't need unwrapping, and the White House says they were the highlight of his day.

Spokesman Robert Gibbs says the president got birthday wishes by telephone from first lady Michelle Obama and their daughter Sasha, who are visiting Spain.

And daughter Malia, who is away at camp, used her allotted phone time to call around lunchtime to wish her dad a happy birthday.

Obama's Secret Service detail got him a present too. But Gibbs would only describe it as "heartfelt."

After a full day at the White House, Obama arrived in his Chicago hometown to continue celebrating with friends.

Here's a birthday gift from me to you, Mr. President....Mrs. Marilyn Monroe.

Judge Deemed California's Same Sex Marriage Ban Unconstitutional

2010-08-04T16:20:00.000-07:00

Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker in San Francisco, California overturned the state's ban on same-sex marriage today, saying the voter-approved rule violates the constitutional rights of gays and lesbians.

"Proposition 8 fails to advance any rational basis in singling out gay men and lesbians for denial of a marriage license," Walker wrote in his decision. "Indeed, the evidence shows Proposition 8 does nothing more than enshrine in the California Constitution the notion that opposite-sex couples are superior to same-sex couples."

Brian Brown, president of the National Organization for Marriage says, "Big surprise! We expected nothing different from Judge Vaughn Walker, after the biased way he conducted this trial. With a stroke of his pen, Judge Walker has overruled the votes and values of 7 million Californians who voted for marriage as one man and one woman."

What is your opinion on the seesaw rulings of Prop 8?

My Master Cleanse

2010-08-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

This is Day 4 of my cleanse...and here's a video in response to your e-mails from my tweets!

Six Teens Loose Their Life in Louisiana

2010-08-03T17:05:00.001-07:00

Too many people just really don't have the fundamentals of life down...one of them is swimming. African-American children drown at a rate almost three times higher than white children, according to Make a Splash, a national child-focused water safety initiative created by the USA Swimming Foundation. Of course this is not just solely based on African-Americans, it's the family's themselves. Imagine being a mother or a father and which your children dying in a fight to swim. You can't do anything about it because YOU can't swim--which is the case in point to this family below in Shreveport, Louisiana.

The Oil Did NOT Evaporate

2010-08-03T16:47:00.001-07:00

According to WVUE correspondent John Snell, local officials dispatched a dive team to a barrier island off of southeastern Louisiana's Plaquemines parish to scan the sea floor for oil. The team, however, could barely see the sea floor, due to the current murky state of the area waters. But when the divers returned to shore, they made a rather remarkable discovery: tiny holes that burrowing Hermit crabs had dug into the ground effectively became oil-drilling holes. When the divers placed pressure on the ground near the holes, oil came oozing up.

BP's Oil on Louisiana's Barrier Islands - FOX8 Story @ Yahoo! Video

Lawrence Fishburne's Daughter is Now a Porn Star

2010-07-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

Out of all the careers to choose from, 19 year-old Montana Fishburne is breaking into the movie industry. Not the elite movies her father, Laurence Fishburne is widely known for, but the adult film industry.

One thing, Montana or "Chippy D" said that bothered me to the 10th degree was: "[this movie] is a step in a direction," for joining the industry. Wait...let me take a second before I continue reporting instead of going on a rampage...............[pause] Matter fact, just watch the video below. You'll see how eagerly she watches her co-star, Brian Pumper and be warned of his foul and somewhat vivid language.

Vivid Entertainment, which also distributed Kendra Wilkinson and Kim Kardashian's sex tape, will handle the release of Montana Fishburne's self-titled video, which is due out August 18th.

Fishburne told TMZ she was inspired by Kim Kardashian, who shot to instant fame after her own sex tape was made public several years ago.

"I've watched how successful Kim Kardashian became and I think a lot of it was due to the release of her sex tape by Vivid," Fishburne said in the press release." I'm hoping the same magic will work for me. I'm impatient about getting well-known and having more opportunities and this seemed like a great way to get started on it."

Gone are the days of auditioning or submitting an acting reel. I can't see this ending well.

Irv Gotti says Nicki Minaj is just as Talented as Lauryn Hill

2010-07-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

In a recent interview with VIBE, Gotti claims that “Nicki Minaj is just as talented as Lauryn Hill“.

His full quote after the jump…

The world has yet to see the best of Nicki Minaj. What she’s delivering to the world now is basically what they want. But I know that she’s a super talented superstar who can do anything at a high level—rap, sing, act, whatever she wants to do. This is just the beginning of Nicki Minaj. Her best is yet to come. In my opinion she is as talented as my other girl Lauryn Hill. They have completely different styles. But as far as the talent is concerned they both can do it all. Nicki just isn’t showing it yet ’cause she doesn’t want to. But world be prepared ’cause she’s the truth.

Is this a ploy to get his once influential label back on dry land? Hmmmm excellent start. [Insert sarcasm here]

Where Subculture Becomes the New Mainstream

2010-07-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

I get the pleasure of being a contributing writer to HEED Magazine--where subculture is the new mainstream. HEED magazine fulfills a niche' in the urban marketplace, highlighting topics, venues and personalities rarely covered in most mainstream media.

Check out it's latest edition today on zinio.

Obama-1ST President to appear on a Talk Show

2010-07-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – President Barack Obama will appear on female chat show "The View" on Thursday, in what the ABC network said on Monday was the first appearance by a sitting U.S. president on a daytime TV talk show.

Obama's July 29 appearance will be taped on Wednesday. He will be asked about jobs, the economy, the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and family life inside the White House, ABC said in a statement.

Click here for the full story

Legos Are Our Lifesavers

2010-07-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

Lego blocks are the playtime favorite for kids everywhere and many adults obsession. What is so sweet about the similarity between an adults restricted mind and a child's reaching one is the ability to create and be creative. Hillel Cooperman's lecture at the TED convention takes us through seeming subculture of the legos featuring CAD, open-source robotics and a little adult behavior. After watching this video, I'd urge you to become an individual that strives for creativity and self-actualization.

Show Your Crown

2010-07-22T08:06:00.001-07:00

I had lunch the other day with a friend of mine who was born with the genius gene. He's a complete obnoxious specimen, but his clarity brings my life clarity. He said plainly, "Antoinette, this week, don't be afraid to show your crown."

I know I've been blessed with different talents, different qualities, and a level of success at the age of 24. All my accomplishments have happened because I made them happened--no hand out's here. But sometimes I allow my intelligence to get stifled as in attempt to make others comfortable during meetings and conversations. And although my next sentence will make me send like a Pompus Billboard I'm going to say it anyway: I also know that my beauty can be offsetting in a professional setting as well. Somehow young, intelligent, and beautiful are ingredients for women to spew malice and make my life a living hell.

So, when I heard, "...don't be afraid to show your crown" I stopped my fork (filled with yummy brown rice and veggies) mid air as if a light switch went on. BING!!! There are a certain few that carry royalty both from an organic and hereditary well and it's OK to give people a drink from it every once and a while.

This week, I have allowed my crown to shine, and I urge you to let your royalty show--no matter what. Don't be afraid by what other's may think or how someone may feel based on your natural genius and God given abilities. Continue moving down your own individual plan of righteousness. Be the best writer, painter, chef, plumber, designer, architect, or caregiver that walked the face of this earth.

HT: Evan

Emperor George Steinbrenner in the baseball Kingdom dies from massive heart attack

2010-07-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

When A Dream Turns to Nightmare

2010-07-12T15:31:00.000-07:00

While Christina Milian takes a leisure stroll with 6-month old baby Violet, the Dream

choose to go on holiday with his assistant Melissa Santiago.

The Dream's rep has released a statement saying that he and Milian are separated! The statement via Us Magazine reads: "Terius 'The-Dream' Nash is saddened to announce that his marriage to Christina Milian was unsuccessful. The couple reached this decision in late 2009, but decided to keep the news private in efforts to protect their baby daughter Violet. They ask for consideration and respect for their family moving forward.

While The Dreams reps are busy releasing statements, the only bit of news from Christian Millian's camp is from her twitter page, "'Whatever you think... believe it."

Now if beauty's like Halle Berry and Christian Millian get cheated on...what's in store for the rest of us.

Feliz Cumpleaños, Kahlo

2010-07-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate the memory of Frida Kahlo on her birthday, July 7th. Kahlo was perhaps one of the most prolific painters of her time. She was a mixed-heritage Mexican girl with a Hungarian and Jewish father, and Mexican Spanish mother. Born in 1907, she lived through the Mexican Revolution, dodging gunfire and riots, only to be shot with polio at age 6. Because of the polio’s effect on Frida, she wanted to study medicine and unlock the mysteries of the body. However, when she was 18 she was hit by a trolley. An iron rail went straight through her uterus; her foot was crushed and dislocated, and her spinal column, collarbone, ribs and pelvis were all broken. Alive, but trapped and crippled, she was given a special easel and some paints to entertain herself during the long and painful convalescence. And so Frida was confined to her bed for years; it was there, in that state of isolation, Frida made two discoveries-- that she had an amazing gift with oil based colors and that she would love Diego Rivera almost 20 years her senior for his ideals in politics and art. Kahlo is most known for depicting herself in various shocking visuals—especially for that time. She has said, “I paint self-portraits because I am the person I know best.

At 22, she wed painter Diego Rivera following a tumultuous ten-year union where both artists carried on numerous affairs. They soon divorced but some say you cannot truly divorce the heart as they ultimately remarried before Kahlo’s death in 1954.

Since her death, Kahlo's celebrity has only grown. In 2001, she became the first Hispanic woman to have her face put on a U.S. postage stamp, and her 1943 work "Roots" set the record for the highest-selling portrait by a Latin-American artist in 2006. She also had a movie based on her life titled "Frida" directed by Julie Taymor (Broadway's "The Lion King"). The film stars Salma Hayek as Kahlo and Alfred Molina as Diego Rivera, and was nominated for six Academy Awards, including a Best Actress nomination for Ms. Selma Hayak.

To put the icing on the memory of Frida Kahlo, Google as replaced their icon with one of Kahlo complete with vines interlocking around Google’s embloom.

Happy Birthday, Frida

Thank you, BET

2010-06-30T12:27:00.000-07:00

Hey all! For those of you looking for my review on the BET awards here’s the post again. Dunno what happened, but thanks Kathleen for bringing it to my attention!

Queen Latifah set the tone with what may have been the funniest opening we’ve seen from the BET Awards in years. From poking fun at Usher liking menopausal women to Drake being, “cute, but clumsy” she definitely kept the show entertaining. All hail the Queen.

Now, if you watched the BET Awards, I’m sure you found Alicia’s performances to be a little…uh …disturbing. Don’t get me wrong; she looked absolutely amazing pregnant…but sexy turns into alarming when you decide to climb a piano combating the offset of gravity due to a 5 month old in your womb! I was too worried about her to be taken by her performance. :::sigh:::

What perhaps stole the show was Chris Brown’s ruined Michael Jackson tribute. Brown has the perfect moves to mirror the King of Pop, and across the blogosphere there was more mention of him blubbering through “Man in the Mirror,” then El Debarge’s EXCELLENT performance that launched his first album in 16 years, Kanye’s comeback performance of “Power” since his shamed event at the VMA’s, and Prince’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Was this because people were on the fence of his performance? Was Brown moved by Mike’s memory or was he trying to get back into America’s graces. Much like the center of a tootsie pop, the world may never know.

Knight and Day

2010-06-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

Knight and Day is an enjoyable and entertaining action flick with one of the best summer movie openings we’ve had in a long time.

The movie is preposterously funny to the point where you overlook Cruises’ saggy man boobs and immobilized forehead as well as Diaz’ eye catching wrinkles.

What I found particularly hard to find was the romance between Diaz and Cruise…both performances were over the top—I think they’d make a way better pair as platonic partners than a love interest.

On the other hand, if you want to just veg out with a lightweight movie—Knight and Day is your go to flick for the summer.

You LINT LICKER!

2010-06-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

I've gotten a couple e-mails about why I haven't been posting any blogs lately. I've just been taking care of a couple of things, but I want to thank you because it lets me know you're reading and looking forward to what I write. So in my hiatus, of which will be over by tomorrow, please enjoy my all time FAVORITE commercial!! lol