Thoughts I'd Like To Share...

So are you ready to get your act together yet…?

2012-02-13T11:14:00.000-05:00

Nothing like the untimely death of someone you’ve grown up admiring to cause plenty of quiet introspection. I am still in shock about the tragic and untimely death of Ms. Whitney Houston. It almost seems surreal… But it does beg the question, “Are you ready to get your act together yet?”

This past weekend was my son’s 8^th birthday. True to our very unconventional nature, we decided to have a pool party in February. Now since we live in Florida, that’s not all that shocking in and of itself but wouldn’t you know it, we had a “cold snap” this weekend. Thankfully, it wasn’t too bad Saturday, about 70 degrees. But, the parents were cooperative, the children had a blast and our family was enjoying some much needed R&R. In fact, I was in the Arcade at the resort where we were staying when I got a text message from my friend, “Whitney Houston has passed? Turn on tv” To which I replied, “We’re in the arcade. Is she dead?” The heart-wrenching reply still causes a knot in the pit of my stomach, “Yes at age 48”

Wow! I’m thinking to myself , “She was only two years older than me…” Now the demons she has battled for years are well-publicized but it seemed as though she was on the verge of a huge comeback. Did she wait too long or did she simply run out of time? When is the right time to get your act together? When your children are all grown up… When you and your significant other are on the right path… No! The simple answer is RIGHT HERE! RIGHT NOW!

I love this quote that I saw in Linda Barnby’s publication, Rich Life Happy Life. “Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities have crept in; Forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.” Ralph Waldo Emerson Don’t wait too long to set attainable goals! Don’t wait too long to begin prioritizing your activities! Don’t wait too long to focus on the things that are most important in your life! Decide what you want to accomplish and be about the business of having single-minded focus until you reach all your goals.

Is creating balance in your life one of your goals?

2012-02-09T19:40:00.000-05:00

A healthy body, soul and spirit is the key to a balanced lifestyle. In Twelve Pillars, A Novel by Jim Rohn and Chris Widener, it is referred to as living a “Life of Three-Dimensional Health. You should make sure that the outside of you is a good reflection of the inside of you.”

Well-balanced healthy meals provide a variety of essential nutrients. Good nutrition helps you maintain a healthy weight and overall wellness. (taken from Herbalife International of America) Of equal importance is scheduling time to exercise. You see, setting goals and prioritizing your tasks is of little value if you are too sick, depressed or tired to do anything. You must attend to your spiritual well-being in addition to your physical well-being.

In order to achieve success you must decide to make positive changes in your life that will help you reach your goals. Once you make that decision will you commit to doing the necessary things to reach your goals? Once you decide what you want out of life for yourself and your family, will you work diligently until you make it happen?

What is the most important task I must complete today?

2012-01-31T23:08:00.000-05:00

How will you prioritize your tasks for each day? You will align your activities with your goals. What is considered urgent and what is considered important? Urgent issues are equated with emergencies. Are you completing the urgent tasks first? You must commit to setting goals and aligning your tasks with accomplishing goals. According to Stephen Covey, you must…”put first things first.”

You should assign a number to each task that you need to complete sooner rather than later. These are tasks that are urgent must be completed immediately or they will create crises. Urgent tasks will be given an assignment of one. Tasks that are important need to be completed in a timely manner but they are not urgent. They will be assigned a number of two. Once you determine the most urgent task that you must be complete each day, you should commit to focusing on that task until it is completed. By doing this, you can maximize your productivity and reduce the issues that require immediate attention.

Only tasks that will contribute to your goals should be considered important. Once you take care of the urgent issues, you can focus on the important tasks. Focusing on the important tasks will reduce the urgent issues significantly. There are always going to be urgent issues that come up and demand immediate attention but taking care of the important tasks on a consistent basis will reduce the urgent issues.

　

Consider Changing the way you think about things…

2012-01-21T16:00:00.003-05:00

You must make an effort to find balance in 2012. Work hard but build lasting and meaningful relationships. Recently, I completed reading Twelve Pillars, a novel by Jim Rohn and Chris Widener. It has literally changed my perspective on the way I approach life. It has energized me to create a stable financial future but I also want to bring along as many other folks with me who want to work hard and play hard too!
To that end, I am offering suggestions on ways to maximize your empire building efforts. The key is in managing your time wisely. Get yourself a day planner, use your phone, use your lap top but get out there and meet people but don’t forget to follow-up with them and build relationships. The fortune is in the follow-up. People want to do business with folks they know and like.
The third Monday of each month is Connect over Coffee on Kirkman Road at the Jackson-Hewitt office. On Tuesday mornings at 8:30 there is a networking event operated by the SRB Networking Group www.srborlando.com and it is held at the Village Square on Goldwyn Avenue in the 2nd Floor Conference Room. On Tuesday evenings at 7:00pm there is the Orators Toastmaster Group. This activity is at Century Link building on 436 near Ronald Reagan Blvd. This information was obtained from www.meetup.com
A good group to join for building your business is ABC – Orlando- Central FL Business Connectors Networking. You can find their information on meetup.com. Another great organization you might want to investigate is the National Association of Entrepreneurs – Winter Park http://www.thenae.org This group is having their Grow Your Biz & Build Friendships with other CEO’s on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Fiddler’s Green Irish Pub at 11:30am.
Other groups to consider are the African-American Chamber of Commerce and the Orlando Women in Business. Both of these groups have networking events as well as educational opportunities.
I am looking forward to being a life-long learner and sharing the knowledge with other businesses and “do-gooders” like myself. Let’s go become millionaires!

Protein and Weight Loss

2012-01-21T10:34:00.002-05:00

Protein is extremely important in the process of losing weight. The amount of quality protein in your diet is the single most important calorie that influences your metabolic rate favorably influencing weight loss. A significant body of evidence indicates that protein levels far higher than our government’s suggested levels of intake are optimal for weight loss as long as you simultaneously decrease carbohydrate intake.

Increasing your intake of protein can greatly improve your odds of reaching your optimal weight. Quality protein also helps you sustain muscle during weight loss, improve muscle fitness, improve immunity, improve antioxidant function, build HDL cholesterol, and enhance insulin and leptin function – all of which contribute towards optimal weight management efforts over time.

Protein is made up of various amino acids. The most important amino acid is leucine. Getting your protein intake high enough, especially proteins rich in leucine, can activate a sluggish metabolism and result in weight loss. The highest source of leuicine-containing foods are cottage cheese and red meat. Avoiding red meat and dairy products makes it more difficult to get leucine-containing foods in higher amounts. The foods that are the richest in leucine include milk, cheese, eggs, pork, fish, chicken, legumes, peanuts, nuts and seeds.

The bottom line is, if you want to lose weight and not gain it back, increase your protein intake consistently. That coupled with increased physical activity is a recipe for success.

Improving ADHD Symptoms Through Diet and Behavior Management

2011-07-20T15:04:00.001-04:00

If you have a child that has been diagnosed with ADHD as I do, you may be dreading the beginning of the upcoming school year. However, I have great hope that the improvements that we saw at the end of last school year will continue into the new school year. It didn’t hurt that he had an awesome teacher who was very committed and understanding. We worked together very well as a team. There must be an open line of communication between the teacher and the parent. I love that in this new era of communication, I was able to converse with my son’s teacher by text message. We did a great deal with my son through diet, vitamin supplements and behavior management. I have gone through great “pains” to avoid medicating my child and possibly affecting his health for years to come.

According to Jennifer Shu, MD, “Studies show that children with healthier diets tend to behave and perform better at school. Chances are these desired effects extend to the home as well.” Hunger surges can also create problems. Children who are hungry are bound to have more difficulty maintaining concentration, are prone to get frustrated more easily and can become more irritable. A small percentage of children with ADHD have sensitivities to certain foods or food additives, such as colorings or preservatives. “Eliminating these substances from the diet may improve the ADHD behaviors; however…be sure to discuss any dietary changes with a physician and/or nutritionist,” says Dr. Shu

When you have a child with ADHD you are parenting a child who has greater demands, needs more involvement, and requires greater patience and understanding by us, the parents. As a general rule, all children respond well to a regular routine but for kids with ADHD, routine is vital. Children with ADHD do best in settings with clear, consistent expectations. Reward good behaviors and provide appropriate consequences for negative behaviors. Sometimes tasks that seem simple to us are very difficult for children with ADHD. Reward hard work and effort, instead of focusing on the outcome. Praise positive behaviors right when you see them. Focus on your child’s strengths and provide him/her with opportunities to do well. It is important to help build his/her self esteem and confidence. Always remember, even though you may feel like you are by yourself, as I did at first, you are not alone. It is often helpful to have a place to go for support and education. Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) is a great source. I have been to the web site! Check out their online communities. Finally, Carve out some “me time.” Dealing with ADHD can be exhausting. It is important for us to take some time to “recharge our batteries.” Here are a few tips that may make parenting your ADHD child a little easier. Take it from someone who knows, they really help.
1. Set Up Clear House Rules
2. Organize Your Home
3. Set Up a Daily Schedule
4. Reward Effort
5. Catch Your Child Being Good
6. Focus on Strengths
7. Get Support
8. Take Time for Yourself

References
ADHD and Diet
http://add.about.com/od/childrenandteens/a/Nutrition.htm

Behavior Management and ADHD
http://add.about.com/od/childrenandteens/a/parentingtips.htm

The Case for After School Programs

2010-09-13T10:51:00.004-04:00

An increasing number of experts have said that a solution to many educational challenges may be as simple as good after-school programs. Hi-Tech Tutoring Center, Inc., offers just such a program to help enhance the educational experiences of at-risk youth. According to a new study of 35 after-school programs serving low-income elementary and middle school students, children who regularly attended a program were (academically) far ahead of their peers. Not only did test scores increase, but their work habits, social skills and behavior improved with increased after-school activities. Just from anecdotal information received from parents, we know that many students do not handle un-supervised time well. At HTTC, we have a contract with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. We are all too familiar with the spike in the crime rate between 3pm and 6pm. We offer activities that do more than keep students occupied. We know that we offer a top-notch program, but we lack the funding to serve all the students who need our help.
Whatever the reason, parents often turn to tutoring services to give their children the help they need. At Hi-Tech Tutoring Center, Inc., we not only offer help for struggling students (and academic enrichment for advanced students), we offer a nurturing environment for emotional enrichment. We offer a variety of options, but studies show that visits less than twice a week are usually a waste of a child’s valuable time. By December this year, HTTC will be offering online tutoring via Skype. This offering will be ideal for the student who prefers to work independently, but still needs a little extra help. It will be especially attractive if he or she is comfortable communicating via computer.

References
“Do Afterschool Programs Give Students a Boost?”
http://www.education.com/magazine/article/Afterschool_Programs/

“Types of Tutoring: What’s Best For Your Child?”
http://www.education.com/magazine/article/Types_of_Tutoring/

Whose Fault Is It Anyway?

2010-03-08T12:50:00.001-05:00

There’s no cheerful way to put it things are in a real mess! Of course now that President Obama is “the man,” everybody is looking at him to get us out of this mess. Right after he took office, he said, “I didn’t create this mess, it was waiting for, on my desk, wrapped in a nice bow.” Excellent point Mr. President. Come on now, The man has only been in office a little over a year. He didn’t get us in this mess but he sure is the one everybody is looking at to get us out. Now I know when things are bad, we all look around for someone to blame, but even on his worst day, I never felt hatred towards George W. Bush. It doesn’t seem to me that President Obama gets the same consideration. The “tea party people” claim to represent the frustration of the American public but their rallies don’t look much like America to me.

In my opinion, they have found a way to express their outrage over a black man being elected President of the United States without looking overtly racist. Now they have every right to their opinion but let’s keep it real, shall we? I heard the “talking heads” say right after the election, “Well all that anger has to go somewhere or they are going to explode.” All this anger seems to have found a home in the “Tea Party Movement.” How can anyone who claims to be a Christian, think it’s ok to harbor that kind of hatred towards another human being? These people say they are just unhappy with the direction the country is going in yet they have personally attacked President Obama’s very character. I’m no fan of George W. Bush but I certainly don’t hate him personally. I’m very unhappy with many of the policies his administration put in place but I would never dream of referring to him as a “Nazi.” Do I think that a lot of the problems the country is experiencing are George W. Bush’s fault? ABSOLUTELY!!! Do I harbor a deep hatred in my heart for the man? OF COURSE NOT!!! My fear is that because President Obama is a man of principles, he may be only a one term President. OH HOW I PRAY THAT I’M WRONG!!!

Calling All Dreamers and Doers!

2009-09-28T15:52:00.002-04:00

I cannot do this by myself anymore! I have at least two home-based businesses that could be very lucrative if I just had some help! The key word is leverage! Instead of relying on just yourself to make a living, you build a team of “hard-chargers!” Be aware, that these opportunities involve a small investment but if you put in the work, it’s a small price to pay! And besides, I would never market a product that I don’t use or believe in! You have to believe in the product or your lack of sincerity will show through in your presentation every time! Let’s start with the Blast off network. I’m not going to even attempt to explain it to you. Here is the link so you can check it out for your self!

http://ppl.blastoffnetwork.com/hollymosleycooper18

Finally, there is a company called Winalite. I believe that this company is on the verge of opening up such a lucrative market that it is simply going to be incredible. Check out this website:

http://www.TeamLoveMoon.com

Now I know a lot of people are out of work right now so I know there are folks out there who have the time and the determination to make both of us financially comfortable for our families into several generations. I’m not selfish; I’m more than willing to share. What I need are some folks that can get out there and “hit the ground running!” I need people who can help me do the leg- work that needs to be done. They also need to be committed to do the steps necessary to get properly trained.
http://www.4WCS.biz

If you are one of those people who think that they want to create a future for themselves and their families rather than just “hanging on” to their job, check out the information, give me a call, and the sky is the limit!

You can call this 24-hour message line anytime! Your call will be returned!
1 866 718-7941

What are you willing to do for your children’s sake?

2009-07-06T12:53:00.000-04:00

I have to do better about writing more regularly. I have so much wisdom to share! For instance, what are you willing to do for your children’s sake? I would say almost anything but I wonder if everyone feels that way. I’m not going to go into great detail but I learned a valuable lesson this weekend while trying to teach my children one as well. I say children because I got a chance to see my stepson this weekend. I spent an entire day with some people with which I don’t have the best relationship… I’m only going to say I’ve been trying to teach one of my children not to verbalize everything that “pops into his head.” At the same time, my stepson, who has to know or maybe he doesn’t, that these aren’t my favorite people in the world, yet we were able to spend a relatively pleasant afternoon together without incident or strife… Children need to see adults getting along and working through their differences for the greater good. How much misery and pain is caused in the world by people who can’t get along? I hope to be able to continue to lead by example and show my kids what lengths I’m willing to go to make them happy and help with their healthy development. I’m not trying to “pat myself on the back” but I could’ve spent the last day of my “staycation” doing almost any other thing besides what I did. I wanted my son to see his big brother, I wanted to see my stepson and I wanted to reestablish a broken relationship for the future. My son deserves to know the other side of his family. Now, if there was only something we could do to help mend his father’s confused mind and reestablish that relationship….

The Real Good Old Days!

2009-05-28T15:32:00.000-04:00

I’m sitting here at my computer trying to figure out what to write about. I haven’t written for a while but I still have plenty to say. For instance, I started a discussion in NCOF, (National Circle of Friends) about “The Real Good Old Days.” It was about when we were children how we could go outside and play and just be a kid and our parents weren’t worried about us. How we played with all the kids in the neighborhood and were in and out of each other’s houses and nobody was worried about us getting molested or kidnapped… Sometimes I feel a little sad for my boys (I say boys because even though Xavier isn’t here, he’s still my boy and always will be). They really may never have those opportunities that my cousins and I had. We had the run of the neighborhood and we would go around collecting bottles so we could cash them in and go buy “now or laters,” and other junk from the corner store or the “flip lady.” We bought those tall Nehi sodas in the glass bottles that they don’t even sell anymore. We would play outside all day and not complain about the heat. It was nice because my aunts had pools but we weren’t always in the pool, sometimes we were just riding our bikes or just playing outside. Actually, if we went inside too many times, our parents would threaten us, “If you come back inside again, you’re going stay in here…”

Are We Ready To take it to the Next Level…?

2009-03-18T15:27:00.000-04:00

My son is a model! Wow! You’ll excuse me but it’s going to take a while for that to “sink in.” I told you about the contest he was in where he made it to the finals and he was competing for a one year modeling contract. Well, he won! My son won a one-year modeling contract with a company called Model Productions. We are now in the process of waiting on the contract to arrive in the mail. We must find a lawyer to review the contract for us (now is the time for my shameless plug for Pre-Paid Legal Services) We must get measurements taken. We must work on our talent. We must produce a resume for a 5 year old. We must do everything that goes along with launching a modeling career. Wow! Did I say that before? I’m still so excited! I couldn’t even sleep last night because my mind was running like a hamster on an exercise wheel! I have to admit I’m very new at this whole process. I have no idea what it’s like to be a “stage door mom.” From our very limited experience in the contest, I know it involves a lot of coaxing, rushing, placating, pacifying, and a great deal of waiting. There’s plenty of whining and complaining but a great deal of satisfaction in winning!
So where do we go from here? Will we work on magazine layouts? We will do television commercials? Will we get a role on a television show? Will we get a role in a movie? Will we do department store catalogs? How much traveling will we do? Will we have to do home schooling? Even if we go to a regular school, will we need a private tutor to travel with us? Right now I have more questions than answers. However, as soon as I have some answers, I’ll let you know. Stay tuned…

My Son the Model…?

2009-03-11T16:16:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday I went to the movies with some friends. I was early so I started looking around. I saw this display from this company called Model Productions. It was talking about something they call the American Mall Model Search. I was intrigued. I was also a little surprised because my mom and I had just been teasing my son that very morning about how he needed to find himself a job so he could accommodate some of his very expensive tastes. So I filled out the little form so that I could get a call back from the company. I really didn’t think too much more about it and was already thinking I would just let it go. Then, I got a call from the company on Wednesday telling me that they were having auditions that night. Now, it’s time to either “put up or shut up.” So I went and picked up my son from school and took him to the audition just like he was. No bath, no wardrobe change. Just a “grubby” little kid who had been at school all day! I filled out the paperwork and we sat and waited. We waited what seemed like forever and we practiced walking down the catwalk and we learned the line that he had to say. I wasn’t sure how he had done but sure enough, when the judging was over he had made it to the finals! What a thrill! You see we are very new to the “whole competition thing.” I’ve always known he was precocious and adorable but it was “neat” to see that other people thought so too. We got our instructions and scheduled his photo shoot for the next day. I found him a really cute outfit (in our own closet) and he did his photo shoot and I thought it came out wonderfully! This past Saturday we had the big competition. He had to do his screen test and he had to do the catwalk again. Once again, I don’t know how he did. We have to wait two weeks to hear back from the company. He was competing for a one year modeling contract. He has to come out in the top ten percent this time. Even if he doesn’t win we can still sign up to go on virtual auditions. You see, you don’t even have to be in the same room anymore. You can film an audition and send to who ever might be interested in hiring you! I really hope he wins one of the contracts. I think it would be much easier if I had more guidance to help us along. What ever happens, I think that it’s so cool that other people appreciate my child’s intelligence, poise and good looks! You’ll have to excuse me; I’m a very proud mom who sees nothing but the brightest future for her baby boy!

When Will Things Get Better?

2009-02-19T15:50:00.001-05:00

Is the Stimulus Package going to help? I’ve heard so many “talking heads” that are supposed to be experts say that things are probably not going to improve before the end of this year! That’s just wonderful… I’ve thought about getting a little job on the side to help make ends meet until things get better. I have limitations on the type of work I can do now since I had my “heart incident.” I have training as a Medical Assistant, as well as a Certified Nursing Assistant. The last time I went to the doctor, some years ago, he told me that he wouldn’t advise me to go on disability, but I probably would not be able to do that type of work any more. At the tutoring center, I spend all my time working on the computer. I don’t really do any stressful work or anything that involves heavy lifting or standing on my feet. I have several home-based businesses but things are just so bad right now no one is spending any money. I just don’t have the energy to get on all these conference calls and go to all these sales meetings every day and every week. However, I must make the effort to try to get advice and training to try and “jump start” my little businesses. The dilemma I face is I’m all my son has right now. I am trying so hard to offer as much stability in his life as I can right now. When I’m gone, he must stay with his grandma. Sometimes these meetings run kind of late in the evening and then I have to “drag” the poor child out into the cold or rain or even if it’s late we have to get home. We could stay at grandma’s house but that means packing up our clothes and everything that goes along with being away from home.

I said all that to say… When are things going to get better? I have a deep faith in God that is basically keeping me going right now. I am in so much debt it’s ridiculous. I need an influx of cash to help me get my head above water. The problem with that, besides the fact that the banks aren’t lending any money right now, is that my credit is now so “jacked up,” I probably couldn’t get a loan from a loan shark! I love all these “holier than thou” people who get on the news talking about how they don’t think it’s fair to bail out all those “lazy, irresponsible” people who can’t pay their bills… Well I am not lazy or irresponsible! I have had some bad breaks in the last couple of years and then the economy tanked! I know I’m not the only one out there in this situation. I did not buy a house I couldn’t afford. I go to work every day. To tell you the truth, sometimes I really do wonder how I ended up where I am now? All I can do is continue to “plug along.” Some days are easier to deal with than others. I don’t know when things are going to get better but I sure hope it’s real soon!

I’m Still on Cloud Nine…

2009-02-12T15:53:00.000-05:00

I’m still absorbing the fact that the President of the United States is a Black man! President Barack Obama. Wow! That’s quite a concept to “wrap your head around.” I guess all the “gloom and doomers” are able to see that we have had a Black president for a while now and the world hasn’t come to an end. In fact, I think he’s doing a pretty good job! I’m sure it’s somewhat overwhelming dealing with all the “stuff” he inherited on day one! To paraphrase the president, “This mess was waiting for me on my desk in the Oval Office tied with a nice bow!” I pray for him every day and every night! I know he said if he doesn’t do the job, he should be fired but I hate to think about who would be his replacement.

I am so proud beyond belief of how the first black “First Family” is conducting themselves. What an inspiration it is to see Mrs. Michelle Obama on the cover of Vogue! How wonderful it is to see those adorable little girls and how smart, respectful and well-behaved they are. I love that the First Grandma has moved in! I know that since my husband’s illness, my mother has been an invaluable part of our lives. She provides the stability in my son’s life that only a real grandma can. Everyone in America has an opportunity to see that black men and women love each other; that little black children know how to behave; that we know how to treat our seniors and that they are valuable contributors to our family structure. I only wish that the country didn’t have to be in the midst of the mess we are in for Americans to finally realize that they could give a black man a chance to be elected President of the United States.

Reflections and General “Stream of Consciousness…

2009-01-15T12:28:00.001-05:00

I know you haven’t heard from me in a while but I’ve been far too busy acting like a 23 year old. A few years ago, I decided that I would celebrate my birthday for the entire month of December. You see, my birthday is two days after Christmas and most people are far too busy “doing the holiday thing” to pay any attention to my birthday. That being said, I’ve done my best not to miss a party or a “Happy Hour” within the last month or so… Funny thing about acting like a 23 year old in a 43 year old body… All I can say is thank God for alkaline water, naproxen and chiropractors. I’ve been having a great time but when I wake up in the middle of the night, when it’s quiet and I have the opportunity to think and pray and reflect, I begin to wonder what I really have to show after these 43 years on the planet? What have I done and what am I doing to make a difference? I know people often get reflective around their birthday and the beginning of a new year. As it happens, in my case, they come at almost the same time. I came to a decision in church Sunday. I know this year I must do a better job of remembering that everything I do or don’t do affects the life and future of another person – my adorable son. I can say that I am proud to have been given the opportunity by God to bring this wonderful human being into the world and I’m going to do my best, with God’s help not to “screw him up too bad!” It occurred to me the other night, All the time I spend trying to build our businesses and earn a living are not going to mean “squat” if I wake up one day and my son and I don’t know each other. I also know without a doubt, I’m a much happier mom when I get a chance to “blow off a little steam” every now and then. I also heard a line in a movie that really made me think. Although I’m still married and not dating, the lady in the movie made a profound statement, “ I don’t have time for dating…every man I deal with must be a potential father for my son.” I took that in a different direction. Everyone I come in contact with or spend a great deal of time with, could potentially affect both of our lives if I don’t make smart decisions.

That being said, I was paying bills and looking at my monthly budget and trying not to let fear over take me. I went to an Open House the other night for a school in which I am considering enrolling my son. It was wonderful seeing the great opportunities this education would afford him. They did an excellent job with their “sales pitch.” Of course being in sales I know how it works. You show the potential client how wonderful the product is that you are trying to sell, then you “hit them” with the costs! I knew it was expensive but wow! I talked with the admissions person and the principal and they said that they offer financial aid so I should not let cost deter me… I think I understand the true meaning of unselfishness now. There is nothing that I want for myself right now more than I want to be able to give this opportunity to my son. I spoke with God the other night and I told him that he would have to show me how in the world I could do this without sacrificing any type of extra anything in our budget? You see, we don’t have extra money in our budget. I also heard an interesting sermon on Sunday about how selfish God’s people seem to be towards him. I’m not pointing fingers; I am including myself as well. I have decided that I must do a better job of giving my 10%! I decided that since I’m not really getting a paycheck that I don’t need to tithe. However, I am getting my bills paid every month so that is no excuse. Just because I don’t take a check to the bank to deposit, doesn’t mean that my needs aren’t being met. That is the whole point! I am struggling because I am not giving God what is rightfully HIS! I considered the fact that I find the money to do most of the things that I consider important but when it’s time to pay tithes, I “come up short.” So God has decided to show me just how life can be when you don’t even make an effort to give him what is his in the first place. I won’t belabor the point but I WILL DO BETTER OR ELSE! I really don’t want the else! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to let you “inside my head!” I’ll try not to let it be so long until the next time we talk!

“Fist Bumps, Hi-Fives, Hugs and The Cupid Shuffle!”

2008-11-05T15:31:00.000-05:00

I went to an election watching party last night. I was in danger of not making it there due to transportation challenges. I actually missed a meeting that I was supposed to attend. I really don’t have the money to get my car fixed right now but that is not the subject of this blog. I sat there and watched the election returns come in. I was excited but also very nervous. Would those that don’t believe that the voters should decide elections intervene? Would there be election trickery this night as there was four years ago? Alas, there was not! I am certain that I will never forget the deep pride and lump in my throat I felt when I saw on the television and heard them announce that they were “calling the race” for Barack Obama! I will always remember the deafening cheer that arose from the crowd! It was amazing to see the images of the people dancing in the streets all over the world and all over America! THERE WERE ALL KINDS OF PEOPLE HUGGING AND CHEERING AND DANCING WITH JOY!! An African-American man elected President of the United States! I never thought I would see it in my lifetime! I am so happy and grateful that my 81 year-old mother had the opportunity to vote for an African-American man for President! This morning, my son’s teacher said that yesterday, he told the class during their mock election that “he was going to be President and tell everyone what to do.” I can now look him squarely in the eye and tell him that he can become President if that’s what he really wants to become! I can honestly tell him and affirm his desires to be whatever in the world he wants to be EVEN PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!

Perhaps it is somewhat difficult to describe what this election means to African-Americans. Although, rightfully so, Senator Obama did not make the campaign about race, there is no denying the deep pride that so many African-Americans feel today with this one man’s accomplishments. We are also so indescribably proud of our great country for judging this man on his qualifications and merits.

From now on, there are now no excuses for not achieving one’s goals! All possibilities and goals are attainable! Last night, America celebrated! There were fist bumps, hi-fives, hugs and of course we did the Cupid Shuffle and even the Electric Slide! Now the work begins. We must all (every American) roll up our sleeves and help and support our President. God Bless America and God Bless President-elect Obama and his beautiful family!

Are You Better Off Now Than You Were Eight Years Ago?

2008-10-24T15:27:00.001-04:00

Let’s leave politics out of the discussion for just a minute. I have one simple question for you – are you better off now than you were eight years ago? For me, that’s a “loaded” question. I wasn’t married yet and I didn’t have any children of my own. I was also eight years younger. I was a divorce’ dating seriously a man that had a young son. Seriously dating a man who is visually impaired. That’s a story for another time. To answer the question; I’m pretty sure I’m better off now because my darling boy wasn’t born until 2004! However, not to be selfish, this country is most certainly not better off. I was in a class where I was informed that we are not to say derogatory things about our leaders because they were placed in their position by God. I’m going to have to pray about that one some more because I think President George Bush should be held accountable for the mess this country is in right now. It might not be entirely his fault but I’m pretty sure his lack of leadership had a great deal to do with it. Senator McCain said the other night that he’s not George Bush. No, Senator McCain, you are not George Bush but it seems to have taken you a long time to come to that realization.

I am very disturbed by the way things are going in this country right now. I am sometimes afraid to turn on the television because of all the bad news. I pray daily and nightly to try to have some peace of mind. I know how blessed we are to have a nice place to live but if something doesn’t “break” soon, that might even be in jeopardy. Unlike many people, I have excellent prospects for a great income but I am concerned about how that will work out with the economy heading full steam towards a recession. I know in my heart that if we wake up on November 5th and John McCain has somehow managed to win the election, the world will continue to turn and life will go on but I don’t think that it will be a very pleasant world.

I know as a Christian, that God is in control. I know that everything will work out. However, I would feel a whole lot better if Barack Obama was elected rather than John McCain!

What Does The Future Hold For America?

2008-10-01T15:18:00.000-04:00

I went to an Obama/Biden ’08 rally today! I stood out in the heat to show my support for the next President of the United States. I stood in the heat to hear the last really great President we’ve had recently. President Bill Clinton was in town to give a speech in support of Senator Barack Obama. Lately, I have been a little “miffed” with President Clinton but you can’t get too upset with a man supporting his wife. I wish he had not said some of the things he did but today he more than vindicated himself with the speech he gave at the University of Central Florida.

No one can deny, not even the Republicans, that Bill Clinton did an excellent job when he was in the White House and left a surplus and not a deficit. He left this country in excellent shape! He has some flaws but all humans have flaws! “He who is without sin cast the first stone.” They, the Republicans, tried to crucify Bill Clinton because of his indiscretions (Monica Lewinski). I cannot deny that President Clinton lied. However, the lies that HE told did not cause any of our brave, young soldiers to DIE! (George W. Bush)

I often write about how much I love this country. This is the greatest country on Earth but we are going in the wrong direction. I have also said that I would have no problem voting for John McCain if I thought he was the person to lead this country where it needs to go. I just don’t think Senator McCain and Govenor Palin are the ones for the job! You see, everyone is talking about all my white brothers and sisters who might not be able to bring themselves to vote for Senator Obama once they get in the privacy of the voting booth. Why is that? All these many years that I’ve been voting, I’ve never had to make a choice based on race. I’ve always chosen the best candidate for the job based on their qualifications! If Senator Obama was not qualified, I would not vote for him. It would not matter to me that he is African-American. He gets my vote because I believe he’s the best qualified person to lead us into the future and out of this mess; he does not “get a pass” simply because he is a black man! I consider it a source of pride and a gift from God that I can vote for him because he’s a qualified man who happens to be black!

I don’t know what else the poor man can say! THIS IS A DIRE SITUATION AND WE NEED TO DO SOMETHING TO GET US OUT OF THIS MESS!!! For the love of God America, put your prejudices aside and give this man a chance to fix this mess! DO YOU REALLY WANT SARAH PALIN A HEARTBEAT AWAY FROM THE PRESIDENCY?

This Is Not A Popularity or A Beauty Contest

2008-09-10T15:57:00.000-04:00

This is not a popularity or a beauty contest! Our children’s future depends on whom we elect on November 4th. Lies and “swift-boating” are no way to convince the public that you deserve the job. That’s all I’m going to say about that. Senator Obama gives the American people credit for being smarter than that; sometimes I wonder.

Next subject. Feminism is not about abandoning your family. However, since I made that note to myself, we have found out that Governor Palin charged the State of Alaska for 300 nights when she wasn’t travelling. She was actually at home in Wasilla not travelling from Juno. So maybe I should refrain from accusing her of abandoning her family and instead accuse her of defrauding the citizens of Alaska.

Nevertheless, let’s talk about what the “new self-created change agents” are going to do about ensuring equal pay for everyone. Let’s discuss how they are going to stimulate the economy, put people back to work, provide health care for the uninsured. No, we’d rather discuss nonexistent sexist comments! I have heard the sound bite that they are trying to say was a sexist comment. GIVE ME A HUGE BREAK! Republicans are very good at diverting everyone’s attention from THE REAL ISSUES! America, for the love of God, please don’t fall for the “okey-doke.” WE ARE IN TROUBLE AND JOHN MCCAIN AND SARAH PALIN ARE NOT GOING TO FIX THE SITUATION!

I’m not impressed, Governor Palin, because you go to work every day and have a family. Millions of African-American women have been doing it for years! And by the way, when 17 year old “Sheniqua” gets pregnant, she doesn’t get to go on television, she usually gets “sent away in shame!” She can come back when the baby is born but the situation is not glorified.

Those community leaders that you mock are the backbone of America’s political process. The rich lobbyists that are running the McCain/Paliln campaign are not the one’s who are going to elect the next President of the United States. The grass-roots, go to work everyday, struggle to pay bills are the one’s who are going to determine this election. The Obama campaign needs to stay on message and stop getting rattled and distracted by this latest Republican nonsense.

How Ironic…

2008-08-31T20:02:00.001-04:00

How ironic that another terrible storm is headed towards the gulf coast but this time, it is interfering with the big party (Republican National Convention) in Minnesota. I feel bad for the people on the gulf coast but I think it’s terribly ironic that the Republicans will not be able to ignore the weak, and the sick and the poor this time because everyone is watching what they are doing this time.

I can’t say I’m all that sorry that we don’t have to listen to an entire week of the Republican Party trying to justify the failed policies of the Bush Administration. However, I still want to hear what John McCain and his running mate have to say. Senator McCain has said that he doesn’t know that much about the economy; then he said that he feels that the economy is fundamentally sound. I am a fair-minded person; I want to hear what their solutions are for getting us out of this mess they say that we’re NOT IN! Senator McCain, there are millions of people in America suffering on a daily basis. Senator Obama has told us what he plans to do; what are you going to do about the millions of Americans who are suffering?

God has a way of orchestrating things. What if the timing of this storm was some kind of Divine Intervention? I have said repeatedly that I have submitted my life to God. I know that he is in complete control. That doesn’t mean that I don’t accept responsibility for my actions but I know that there are some things that are out of my control.

What A Night…What A Week!

2008-08-30T13:44:00.002-04:00

I never thought I’d see it in my lifetime! That’s what I am hearing from a lot of African-Americans. I mean African-Americans of all ages. Senator Obama may not have “made a big deal” in his speech but yesterday was an historic day! Not only was it the 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream Speech,” but a black man stood in front of 84,000 of his closest friends with millions more watching and accepted the Democratic nomination for President of the United States! Frankly, I was “blown away!” I took my son to a “speech watching party” because I wanted him to be a part of this historic occasion. There were several thousand people there because the party was part of the Tom Joiner Family Reunion. When Senator Obama was finished speaking, Tom said he felt like dancing so we all did the Cupid Shuffle. It was a beautiful thing to behold. Everyone was dancing and celebrating and rejoicing this wonderful night for America.

I have heard many of Senator Obama’s critics say that he gives great speeches but there is never any substance to what he says. Last night he laid out his plans to get us out of this mess we’re in. I’m sure there is going to be harsh criticism of his plans. I wonder what they are going to say now that Senator McCain has picked a Vice President that has even less “experience” than Senator Obama. Is Senator McCain trying to get Hillary supporters by nominating a woman? Why this particular woman? Who is she?

Now I know a little about who Sara Palin is.. She’s a Pat Buchanan-supporting, extremist. I guess that’s what Senator McCain feels he needs to “shore up” his base. I can’t believe any true Democrat would desert her party because of hurt feelings or anger. Are Hillary Clinton’s supporters still so upset that they would support a ticket that would most certainly overturn Roe v. Wade? I don’t like the whole connotation that if you’re pro choice, you’re pro death. What if all the unwanted babies were allowed to be brought into this world anyway? They might end up like poor Caylee Anthony. I don’t know about you but I hate to think about the possibility of “a whole bunch” more missing and abused children!

I think Senator Obama did an excellent job in laying out his plans for America. I am going to try to keep an open mind and listen to what Senator McCain says, even if I have to drink some Red Bull to do it!

How Did Michelle Obama Do On A National Stage?

2008-08-26T11:09:00.001-04:00

Will she be able to convince America that they should give her husband a chance? Will Joe Lunch box and Susie Housecoat (working-class, blue collar voters) be able to see past the color of their skin? Barack and Michelle Obama are brilliant people that have a great deal to offer America. Why is this country that I love so much so unwilling to give this black man a chance? White Americans will blame it on so many other “things.” After all, no one wants to be seen as a hood wearing, rebel flag carrying bigot!

To be continued after the speech…

WOW! She did a great job reaching out to Americans to highlight our similarities and not our differences. There are no parents of any race who would not do whatever was necessary to ensure their children’s future. I think Michelle did an excellent job of telling her side of the story. I don’t see any reason to question her patriotism or her love of this country.

After hearing her speech and seeing that family together, how can you look into your children’s eyes and explain to them why when you had the opportunity to change the future, you chose to maintain the status quo? I don’t think anyone can use the excuse that they are so different from “us” and they don’t represent “our” values. We have to do something to get this country back on track.

What’s the worse that can happen?

2008-08-25T13:09:00.000-04:00

I had to had to be extremely creative to write this blog. The comma and the “i” on my laptop decided not to work. However I am extremely determined. So it came to me, all I have to do is hook up a keyboard to my laptop where all the keys work! Eureka! Now, on to more serious topics.

What if America allows her racist ways to overrule her logic? Most African-Americans know that they have to be twice as good to get the same position as their white counter parts. It might seem unfair but it’s reality. If anyone doubts what I say, I refer them to the special that aired on CNN about how companies have admitted that they will hire a white male with a felony record over a black male with a clean record! I was deeply offended when I heard this but not really surprised. The young lady who did the study was white and she was very surprised. I doubt if many of the African-Americans watching the program were surprised at all! Is America so racist that they are willing to make the rest of us suffer through another four years of misery?

If John McCain doesn’t even now how many houses he has what makes me think he can solve this economic mess that the country is in right now? How do we get through to these people who say they don’t feel they now enough about Senator Obama? All you need to know is that he’s not John McCain. I don’t begrudge the man his success but people are suffering and he seems to be out of touch.

What’s the worse that can happen? We could end up with another four years of George Bush!!

I'm baaack!!

2008-08-12T10:49:00.001-04:00

I’m back! I was taking a slight break to get some things straightened out and get the office moved and give some of my other businesses some needed attention. It wasn’t as though I was someplace relaxing and sipping on drinks with little umbrellas. I have been going through some minor domestic drama. However, I won’t go into that right now.

We have moved the office to a new location. We are in a much nicer, much better maintained building. We went through “the tortures of the damned” to get everything moved out of our old office. Now we are in the process of getting everything organized in our new office. We have less space but it is a nice feeling to come to a building that is so well maintained.

The new environment is a welcome change; I feel as though I need order in my somewhat complicated life right now. Sometimes I lay awake at night, when its quiet and wonder how I got to the place where I am now. I have many blessings to be thankful for, it just seems to be so difficult some days.

Then, in the midst of my complaining, something terrible happens. Two great individuals go on to glory. I'm speaking of Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes. I still have most of my immediate family with me here on Earth. We may not all be on the best terms but they are still here. Here's to hoping all our issues are resolved before it's too late.

Whose the Most Patriotic Candidate?

2008-07-03T14:30:00.001-04:00

As we prepare to celebrate the birthday of our nation, let us discuss the topic of patriotism. What does it mean to be patriotic? Does it mean we have to wear an American flag lapel pin? Does it mean we have to wear the pride we feel in our country on our sleeve? I keep hearing a lot on the news about how Senator Obama just doesn’t have the military experience to be Commander-in-Chief. We all honor Senator McCain’s service to our country but does that automatically make him the most qualified? The president has all kinds of advisers to help him; he does not have to be retired military. Now it seems as though this is the newest tool to use against Senator Obama. After all, no one actually wants to say that they don’t want to vote for Senator Obama just because he is black. Now we can start to question his patriotism then we don’t have to talk about why we really don’t want to vote for Senator Obama.

How bad does it really have to get? I think it’s time to give the Democrats a chance. Why should we give the other party eight more years? Is there anybody out there who can convince me that Senator John McCain would be a better choice for President? I really try to keep an open mind but I just can’t see it. Sometimes I question whether anyone can fix this horrific mess that we are in. My one and only comfort is that God is in heaven and that he is completely in CONTROL!

What really is the meaning of life?

2008-06-23T14:15:00.000-04:00

Why does it seem as though the minute you get your head above water, a tidal wave washes over your head and you go under again? Why does it seem as though the minute you get all the bills paid and have some idea about having a little extra money, the car breaks down? Maybe it’s the toilet that overflows or a pipe that breaks? When do you ever get to the point when you have enough money? I wonder if anyone ever really feels like they have enough money? Exactly how much of yourself are you supposed to give before you are “used up?” I ask a lot of questions huh? I think I’m going to be taking a few more “me days.”

To top it all off, I feel like I lost a member of my family. When I heard about the untimely death of Tim Russert last week. It seems kind of unfair that he’s gone and so many despicable people are still here! How are we ever going to get through another election season without him?

What is really the meaning of self-sacrifice? Are you supposed to give to the exclusion of providing for your family? Sometimes I feel as though I’m “beating my head against the wall” until it bleeds! Perhaps I’m being redundant but I often wonder if what I’m doing is really worth all the aggravation. We help children here; that’s what we do! I mentioned before that I sincerely hope we are in line for a huge blessing because it seems as though all of Satan’s minions are lining up against us! Most of them in human form!

I have a deep faith and I know we will be fine, but I have to be honest, it’s really wearing heavily on my nerves!

What a Great Day for the U.S.A.!

2008-06-04T17:05:00.000-04:00

I don’t think Americans fully grasp what a momentous occasion today is! I know a lot of people just want to make it about black people but it’s bigger than that! I don’t want to get caught in a Michelle Obama moment but I have never been more proud of this country! I have always been very proud and very grateful to be an American but I can hardly contain the JOY AND PRIDE that I feel today! What if we have the opportunity to elect the first African-American president and the first female vice president! HOW COOL WOULD THAT BE?! I will be the first one to admit that there are some cultural differences between the races but it does not have to drive a wedge between us. Why does different have to be bad? ALL PARENTS OF ALL RACES want the best for children! I sincerely believe that Sen. Obama wants the best America for all children, not just his two little girls. I just don’t think Sen. McCain has the vision to get us where we need to be. I honor his service to this country. I just don’t think he’s the man for the job. I have said before that if I thought that he was I would gladly vote for him but I don’t think he wants to take this country in the right direction for my children’s future.

Random thoughts…otherwise known as stream of consciousness…

2008-05-27T13:49:00.001-04:00

I was discussing this upcoming election with my mom. We heard from a friend of hers that Barack’s name is in the Bible. That in fact it is a Christian name and not a Muslim name, as everyone would have you believe. It’s in Judges 4:4. There is a story about how this man named Barak works with Deborah to bring some “folks” out of bondage. The point is Barak asked Deborah to go along with him. She said she would go but she would get the credit for bringing the “folks” out of bondage. Call me crazy but that scenario sounds eerily familiar! My reasons for thinking Sen. Obama needs Sen. Clinton are not really biblical but reading that passage this morning made me really think. He and particularly Michelle might not like the idea but I’m really beginning to question whether he can win without her help?

I was also wondering what’s going on over in Great Britain? There has been a rash of young people killed recently. The “weird” part of it from an American perspective is that they have been stabbing each other. Of course they don’t have the problem in the U.K. that we have here in America with guns but apparently they have a different weapon of choice. Where is all this anger coming from? They have so much built up anger that they just want to stab each other?

Finally, with Sen. Clinton saying the things she’s been saying, it’s hard to know who the enemy is? John Hagee says he’s been a supporter of the Jewish people for years. Hard to see it that way when he says things like “Hitler was doing God’s work…” Why was Sen. McCain so anxious to get this man’s endorsement? Why does it matter that they aren’t friends? Why is it so different from Jeremiah Wright? Then Hillary, I call her Hillary when she makes STUPID comments that make reference to the assassination of Bobby Kennedy. Everybody says she didn’t mean to compare Sen Obama to Bobby Kennedy and that she wasn’t for a minute suggesting that she harbored any ill will towards Sen. Obama. I don’t card how tired you say you are, WHY THE HELL WOULD SOMETHING THAT INSENSITIVE COME OUT OF YOUR MOUTH?!

Just some random thoughts for us to ponder together…

Why Am I Here…?

2008-05-19T13:43:00.000-04:00

I thought I had found my purpose in life. I know we were all created to worship God but we also all have a “calling” in life. Up until now, I thought I was doing what God wanted me to do in helping to educate children. Could I have been so terribly wrong? We’ve had some “rough times” in recent years but I just can’t seem to see what this “very rough patch” we are going through is supposed to be teaching me (us). I really don’t complain; I just “keep plugging.” I have other businesses but I’m still in the process of building them. They really aren’t yielding a “real income” yet. We have “toyed” with the idea of giving up a dozen times or more and just letting whoever wants this tutoring center so bad have it! Maybe they can get the funding we’ve struggled all these years to maintain. I try not to think about where I might be now if I had just left after college and pursued a career elsewhere. I was on my way to Atlanta! I might be “well off” but I might not have my “darling boy.” (I’m stealing a line from my favorite gospel singer whose name I cannot remember right now!) THERE ARE NO SECOND CHANCES!!! You only get one shot at this thing called life. I don’t happen to believe in reincarnation! Maybe we’re just too stubborn to give up? We know the children need our help, whether they want it or not. We know we offer a service that helps working parents at an affordable rate. All the support letters that we were able to take to the Fire Marshall Appeals Board; even though we were denied our appeal, honor us. We know that God is in complete control and we don’t get to decide whether we give up or not! I’m just talking! I’m sure we’ll still be here at least another three years to celebrate our 20th anniversary. We might not be in the same location, but we’ll still be in business. The only way we won’t is if God himself decides it’s time for us to leave!

Just Things on My Mind…

2008-05-14T15:02:00.001-04:00

I’ve been trying to figure out what I should write about. That’s why I haven’t posted a blog. I don’t know if you can actually call it writer’s block. Maybe you can. I’ve been thinking about what’s going on with the election and whether Senator Clinton is going to deal well with not getting the nomination. Some African-Americans have voiced concerns to me that “they” are going to find a way to “take it away from Barack.” I continue to reassure them that he is picking up super delegates every day. So this mysterious “they” (white people, the media, the super delegates) really couldn’t take it away from him even if they wanted to; at least not without raising quite a few questions about “the rules” and why they keep getting changed!

I’ve also been thinking about this “nasty little bug” that Senator Clinton keeps trying to put in everyone’s ear; ”…you know the hard working, white people aren’t going to vote for Senator Obama.” Does that mean that only the white people are hard working? My question to Senator Clinton is what election results are you looking at? Senator Obama has won in states where the populations are predominantly white. States like Nebraska, Iowa, Alaska… I don’t even remember all of them! “I think he’s getting some votes from “hard working, white people!” Hmmmm?

My final thoughts are about why someone is trying so hard to close down the tutoring center?! We have been operating for nearly 17 years and now we have to install a fire alarm, “yesterday!” We have to put massive amounts of money into a building that does not belong to us! We suspect “foul play” but conspiracy theories are very difficult to prove. We are not opposed to the idea of meeting fire codes; we just need time to raise the money. We are non-profit! We don’t keep $9,000 - $11,000 “laying around!” We have been able to get the assistance of some very powerful people and it looks as though we can come up to code with minimal expense but now there is still the “time issue!” We are certain parties involved have been “paid off” but of course we can’t prove it. We also aren’t entirely sure who’s working behind the scenes, and supplying the cash!

My REAL final thoughts are about how I feel about having a husband that is severely mentally ill and vehemently opposed to doing anything about it! I’ve told his mother that I’m going to have him hospitalized and see if that “moves him” towards getting some help! She told me to “send him home” to her in “bug tussle,” I mean Melbourne. My apologies to anyone reading this who is from Melbourne. However, I’ve been there several times and I am not impressed. I’m as unimpressed with Melbourne as I am with Sanford and I “own” a house there! I really need him to want the help and not have it “forced on him.” My mother says I should try to encourage him to get help but he won’t listen to anyone! Meanwhile, I continue to try to raise the children with minimal support – financial or emotional! When I get my car fixed, I’m going to disappear for a day or so and let him stay where he is and continue to “talk to himself” and “swat imaginary bugs!” I will of course make sure my son is taken care of and perhaps he can see that he needs to get help. If nothing else, it will be some “me time!”

Mother’s Day…

2008-05-09T17:11:00.001-04:00

As we quickly approach mother’s day, I reflect on what it means to be a mother. What does it mean to be responsible for a “tiny life?” My baby is not so tiny anymore but he’s still my baby. I also have to give “props” to my stepson, Xavier. I did not give birth to him but he was “my first baby” and he is as much mine as if I had given birth to him! After all, biology does not a parent make! I will never forget a conversation we had one day. I was trying to explain to him that Jimmy, his little brother had “come from my stomach” but he had not. He then said that he wished he had come from my stomach. I have never been so touched and I will never forget that conversation! Although most of my husband’s family has done everything that they can to keep us apart, I know one day when he’s old enough to make his own decisions, he’ll come “home to me.” I just want him to know that he can come whenever he wants to come home whether his dad and I are together or not! Parents divorce each other, not the children!

My youngest son, Willie James Cooper, III, is a wonder to behold! Although I don’t remember when I wasn’t his mother, I marvel at the changes and accomplishments he goes through everyday! He is the most handsome, the smartest, the “coolest, “ the most charming child I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing, next to his big brother of course! The blessing God has given me humbles me and I only pray that I will have the knowledge and skill to do half the job raising him that my mother did raising my brother and I.

There is hope for the future!

2008-05-07T12:00:00.003-04:00

When I heard the little boy on Michael Baisden the other day, I knew there was hope for the future! The little boy’s name is Christian Adams, he’s 11 years old and he’s from Alexandria, Louisiana. If I’m not mistaken, that’s the same town where they found a noose hanging from the back of someone’s truck right after the Jena Demonstration. The reason I know that there is hope for the future is, the little boy is white and he is a great admirer of Senator Barack Obama. He is concerned about the issues (education, health care), not the color of the man’s skin. If this little, 11 year old boy “gets it” why can’t the rest of the adults? How bad does it have to get before we stop allowing ourselves to be distracted from the REAL issues? I suspect by November, things are going to get so bad that even the most hardcore racist will be ready to vote for a “purple man” if he can fix the mess we’re in!

I want to give a great deal of credit to this young man’s parents. It is evident that they are teaching him to look at the entire person, not just the outside. Children have to be carefully taught hatred; it doesn’t come naturally. I was watching my son play the other day at a birthday party we attended. The group was extremely diverse, just as his class and his school are diverse. The children just play together; they could care less what each other look like on the outside or what neighborhood they come from. When and where do we learn to be so aware of each other’s differences and not our similarities? I would have no problem voting for John McCain if I thought he had the answers to the mess we’re in! I admire Senator McCain for his service to our country but I don’t happen to think he’s the right man for the job. Keep in mind that’s just my opinion.

Everyday of my life I pray to God to take out of my spirit anything that is unchristian-like. God created EVERYONE in HIS image! That means that no one human being is any better than any other human being. I’ve said it before but I think it bears repeating, we are all in the same boat, either we work together to “right the ship” or we all “sink together!”

Is it a dream ticket or my worst nightmare?

2008-05-01T16:58:00.000-04:00

What if we could ensure that the democrats control the White House for the next 16 years? Are we willing to explore the possibility of a Clinton/Obama ticket? Should we even be thinking along those lines? Can Obama win this election without Clinton? I have heard that if this election is for Obama, then no one can take it from him. I am a Christian with deep-seated beliefs and I know that it is true. Should Obama consider asking Senator Clinton to be his Vice President? The prevailing wisdom is that Obama should accept the Vice Presidency, then run for president in eight years. Will that work? Who knows?

I know two things for certain, we must not allow the media and everyone else to distract us from the real issues and we must not allow things to continue as business as usual.

Here we go again!

2008-04-29T12:09:00.001-04:00

Here we go again with Reverend Wright. Does the media ever get tired of “covering” this man? Then, this morning, I hear Tavis Smiley on Tom Joiner talking about some very racist comments that were made by Pat Buchanan. I’ll paraphrase for you, “You black people should be more grateful to us white people for bringing you over here (on slave ships) to America and teaching you about religion and spending all the money we’ve spent on job training programs and welfare and how we should stop being so selfish…” I can’t continue, I’ll be going to lunch soon and I’m feeling nauseous! The “piece” I’m quoting from is called “Memo to Whitey” “Charming!” I’ve always known this man was a lunatic but now I have confirmation. Why does Pat get a pass while Sen. Obama has to “explain” his relationship to Rev. Wright? I’m not sure what Rev. Wright’s motivation is but I was under the impression we were still in America where we have free speech. Why don’t the democrats get an ad together with some of Pat’s quotes from “Memo to Whitey?” The republicans are trying to crucify Sen. Obama with their ads.

You know, and I’m speaking to my Caucasian brothers and sisters right now, if you need an excuse not to vote for Sen. Obama, then you deserve exactly what you get in November! The problem is the rest of us are going to have to suffer like we’ve suffered through this last eight years! I might have to seriously consider moving to Canada or the Caribbean! I think I’ll choose the warmer climate… All joking aside, I love this country far too much to leave her, but if you are going to let racial prejudice influence your decision, I’m going to seriously wonder about my fellow Americans!

What Was He Thinking?

2008-04-24T13:25:00.000-04:00

I was watching “Countdown with Keith Oberman” last night and imagine my surprise when I hear that Pastor John Hagee said that Katrina was “…a punishment from God for inappropriate behavior.” I’m paraphrasing of course. In essence he said that because the City of New Orleans had scheduled a “Gay Pride Celebration,” that’s why Katrina hit! Where is the uproar? Where is the moral outrage? Everybody wants to harp on the statements that Reverend Wright made but I don’t hear the uproar about what Hagee said! Could it be because many of the victims were African-American? I don’t like to “play the race card…but come on…? I don’t want to focus on nonsense in this campaign as we have been doing, but this “man of God?” does not get a pass for making such a horrible statements.

A little while ago, I wrote a blog about whether America is ready for a black president. But when I see this very racist ad that the republican party of North Carolina is running but nobody is talking about what John Hagee said! What gives…? I’m not even from New Orleans and I find his comments very offensive. Any human being with any decency, black, white, brown, or yellow should find this “man of God’s?” statements offensive! The only thought that gives me any peace or allows me to sleep at night, is the knowledge that whoever God wants to become president will be elected in November.

What is this world coming to…?

2008-04-22T12:13:00.002-04:00

With the economy in the shape it’s in right now, it makes you wonder what this world is coming to…? Why are people so selfish? Why are people so willing to vote for a tax cut for themselves at the expense of the education of our youth and the healthcare of the less fortunate? Why are we so indifferent to the fact that there are people in Haiti eating dirt? What is this world coming to…? Has the situation become so desperate that we have switched to a self-preservation mode? Why does it seem that when things get “bad,” we stop caring for our fellow man? I know I’m raising a lot of questions but I really would like some answers! Maybe the answer is, when we believe we are in a desperate situation, we feel that we must “protect our own!” Maybe if we bring God back into our lives, we would realize that caring for our own families is not mutually exclusive to caring what happens to other people’s families. “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Well, the simple answer is “yes, yes you are.” I’m paraphrasing of course, but I believe Dr. Martin Luther King once said, we are all in the same boat and if we go down, we are all going down together!

Please check out our websites!
www.hitechtutoring.com

www.mosleyseducationalmanagementgroup.com

Have you ever had one of those days…?

2008-04-16T12:41:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had one of those days that turned into one of those weeks? I don’t know what’s going on but it feels like every one of Satan’s minions is conspiring against the tutoring center lately. I certainly hope that means we have huge blessing on the way! We have been working quietly for nearly seventeen years to help educate our youth. We have had thousands of success stories with very little fanfare. I say all this to say that I know we are providing a needed service but there are days when we wonder if it’s really worth all the aggravation?

In my opinion, there is nothing more important than educating our future leaders. Yet, teachers are the most underpaid and under appreciated profession. People seem to overlook the fact that without teachers, there would be no doctors or lawyers. Perhaps we need a Public Relations person to put the proper “spin” on what we do on a daily basis. I know that older people and children are not “sexy” or “flashy” but they are the people in our society that need the most nurturing and care.

We are having a golf tournament tomorrow. You know that old saying, “what if you gave a party and nobody came?” We had a pretty good, little slate of players, until two days ago! I have never seen so many deaths, births, illnesses and surgeries all at once in my life! I know people have their own issues and lives but just about everybody who had promised to play cancelled on us. Many of these folks promised to support us monetarily (i.e. the check is in the mail) but we need the funds yesterday. We are obligated to pay for these players whether they play or not! “Right about now, we need a miracle…”

Check out these websites!

http://www.hitechtutoring.com/

http://www.mosleyseducationalmanagementgroup.com/

Where Do We Go From Here…?

2008-04-15T12:44:00.001-04:00

I am not even going to “sugar coat” it… my marriage has been in a mess, a state of flux for the last 3-plus years. We are seemingly, slowly working our way back to some kind of normalcy. Now, I get to work and find out we are under attack on that front! The devil is not happy unless there is “mess and drama” going on. Can we ever get to a point in our lives when things will be calm on all fronts? Does that situation really exist? I think I heard the minister say that you should be wary if you aren’t dealing with some issues or challenges in your life, it means God is not molding, shaping and preparing you for your blessing. I don’t know about that but I for one would like to have the blessing, the peace and the calm. I don’t need the tests, just the blessings!

I would like to tell my boss-my mom that everything is going to be fine and work out perfectly. I should know by now beyond a shadow of a doubt that nothing is too hard for God. But still, somehow we doubt him… Why is that?

So where do we go from here? Do we close down the tutoring center and throw in the towel? Pardon my language but I say “hell no!” Do we give up on our marriage and file for divorce? Of course not! We plan a renewal of vows for our 7th wedding anniversary!

We proceed with our plans, install the fire alarm system that inexplicably is such a major issue all of a sudden…(read this as competition making phone calls to the fire inspector’s office? Hmmm?) We make whatever phone calls are necessary to those in charge to get permission to have our students transported on our field trips. We continue to “plug away” at building our sales consulting business to help fund our non-profit.

Where do we go from here? We continue praying, laughing, loving, doing life…

Check out our websites!
http://www.mosleyseducationalmanagementgroup.com

http://www.hitechtutoring.com/

The Blessing of Giving

2008-04-14T17:54:00.001-04:00

I apologize for missing a few days. It was just not possible for me to take the time to make the entries. I took the weekend off and did not touch a computer!

Thursday, I went to the store to buy groceries. Not really an unusual activity except that it was n0t for my family. It was for a family in need. I am not a wealthy person but it needed to be done so I did it. I wish I could describe the “charge” I got from that simple, little act. I need to tell this family what a blessing they were for me. I need to tell them what a “high” that it gave me! Everyone should experience that “high!” It does not have to be monetary giving; it can be giving your time. I need to teach my son that giving is really fun.

How Are We Doing With Dr. King's Dream?

2008-04-09T13:00:00.003-04:00

Recently we commemorated the anniversary of Dr. King's death. It was "celebrated" with a re commitment march. I heard Reverend Al Sharpton on the Tom Joiner Show this morning talking about what kind of legacy we are leaving for our children and grandchildren. Right now, I am concerned that we are moving in the wrong direction. While it is true that we have an African-American and a woman running for president, we still have thousands of people losing their jobs and their homes. We still have far too many American children going to bed at night hungry! Before his untimely death, Dr. King was in the process of organizing a march on Washington for the poor of all races! Many people of all races are finding themselves in desperate situations because so many of our jobs are being sent oversees. They are going the the very same food banks for help to which they used to contribute!

Meanwhile, the politicians seem far too concerned with an ill-conceived war than dealing with the joblessness and the homelessness created by the mortgage-crisis/housing slump. I wonder what Dr. King would think about the situation we find ourselves in right now? I know he would be as opposed to this war as he was to the Vietnam War. Our servicemen and women are coming home to find that they are in danger of losing their homes! We won't even discuss those coming home to inadequate medical care! This cannot be right! They are risking their lives for our great country and then coming home to homelessness.

How are we doing with Dr. King's dream? I fear the answer to that question is- not very well. Can any of the presidential candidates get us out of this mess? Who in their right mind would want the job? I pray that we do better for the sake of my 8 year old stepson and my 4 year old son! I can be certain of one thing - in the words of the old spiritual, "you better get right with God." If you think we are experiencing global warming now, I know a place where it's a whole lot warmer...

Are We Really Ready?

2008-04-08T10:59:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I asked if we were really ready for an African-American president. Today I wonder if we can handle a female president? I heard Senator Clinton on Tom Joiner this morning talking about her plans to cure breast cancer in our lifetime. Sounds wonderful! Is she ever going to get the opportunity to implement her plan? Are we going to spend all our time trying to determine if she has an honesty issue? Should that be a determining factor when we go into the voting booth? Are we going to get "caught up" in the idea of electing the first female president? What happens when she goes to the Middle East to deal with leaders in that part of the world? I fear she may have the same amount of success that Secretary of State Rice if having...

Can we just see her as an extremely capable Senator that has spent her career trying to help people? Are men going to vote for a female candidate? Some men don't even like having a female boss...Could they handle a female Commander in Chief?

I wonder if Senator Obama were having minimal success would this even be an issue? After all, Senator Clinton seemed like a "sure thing" a year ago! Or is the fact that she is female always going to play into the discussion? Is Senator Obama always going to be the "black guy?" Is Senator McCain always going to be the "old guy?"

Can we just evaluate the candidates on their careers and leave race, sex and even age out of the discussion?

Are We Really Ready?

2008-04-07T11:00:00.000-04:00

Are we really ready for a black president when we can't seem to get past the "race issue?" Why do we care what church Senator Obama attends? Why does the news media (CNN) seem so determined to "make" Senator Obama leave his church? I don't think anyone asked George Bush what church he attended when he was running for President. Could it be that Rev. Wright's comments about race made some people feel uncomfortable? I'm certain most of what Rev Wright said has been uttered at countless black churches all over America. Sometimes it's difficult to hear the truth! Why are we letting something so petty distract us from the real issues? Can Senator Obama effectively deal with the myriad of problems that we have in this country? That's the question that needs to be asked! Not what church he chooses to attend! Are we going to allow racism to keep this very talented, intelligent individual from getting elected? I love this great country and I know we are better than that!
Check out our website!
www.mosleyseducationalmanagementgroup.com