Community & World Issues

With the ever changing chaos amidst what remains consistent is we can always count on a good old political sex scandal to spice things up. Many of our most notable Leaders have succumbed to public scrutiny and exposure. At this point there should be a patent on the formula for “post” affair damage control:
1. Admit to it
2. Hold a press conference and express an almost tearful apology
3. Talk about how much you let down your family and constituents
4. Have your wife standing at your side as a sign of support and unity.

What’s ironic is that what starts out as betrayal to the Spouse becomes over shadowed by the presence of public betrayal. When the media circus exposes the deed, the public official spends more time apologizing to his constituents than mending his relationship. What’s even more hilarious is the “public outrage” and backlash from wives of America who feel entitled to an apology as well.

More recently South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford went public exposing his liaison with his Argentina Hot Mamma. Bizarrely his public apology turned into a twisted admittance/declaration of his undying love for the other woman BUT his intention is to save his marriage and make amends to the people of South Carolina (Whatever!). When these incidents occur I pose the same questions;
-Is the public owed an apology when Public officials are exposed?
-Does an extra – marital affair interfere with the Public official’s ability to do his job?

Unless public funds were used to carry out the relationship, I don’t feel I have to be personally apologized to. An apology in essence should be sincere but these types of apologies are nothing but steps in the “I need to keep my job” process. I understand our leaders are held to a higher standard but where do we draw the line on having to know everything?

That’s my word now I’m waiting to hear your position….I’m listening…..Holla at ya Gyrl !

Life seems a constant search for peace, happiness, serenity and the ultimate… Love. As human beings we yearn to love and be loved. The steps we take on this journey lead us in many directions. We learn that happiness is not a given, peace can be found in the midst of chaos, hearts break and love is lost as quickly as it is attained.

Eventually we realize we can only make amends for past mistakes and the end of the world is not really the end of the world but a means to push us beyond our comfort zones when we can no longer push ourselves. Regardless of our religious views the common thread is: When we face tragedy we all seek and need to believe there is a Higher Power than Man.

The greatest gift about this life is we always have TOMORROW. Tomorrow is our “big break”, our “do over”; another opportunity to do all we missed the day before. Tomorrow brings another opportunity to change a life, change a perspective, and change the direction of your path.

What a beautiful life this is. Do you Agree?

This is my personal reflection, now I would love to read yours. Dig into your soul then speak from the heart. Speak to me..now Holla at ya Gyrl !
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On June 9, 1997 Frederick Hill was charged with Kidnap for the purpose of Robbery. He was 16 years old. The actual crime took place on June 2nd, just a week prior. Frederick along with another teenage boy robbed a local video store taking video games, and cash. The weapon used: an unloaded BB gun.

The Kidnapping charge was obtained because the victims were instructed to move from one side of a room to the opposite side. Once arrested, Frederick admitted to his involvement. His case should have been handled in Juvenile court but instead, Frederick was tried as an Adult and sentenced to Life in prison with the possibility of parole after 7 years. While most 16 year olds are planning their future and preparing for college, Frederick prepared for hard prison time in California’s violent Correctional Facilities.

When Frederick went up for his Board hearing in 2007 he received exemplary reports from his Psychiatrist, prison officials and the Deputy District Attorney. It was noted Fred completed his G.E.D within one month of being arrested. He has completed vocational courses in Landscaping, Real Estate, Roofing, and Home Inspection and is a Certified Personal Trainer. Several Self-Help courses were completed as well.

Prior to his Board Hearing, Fred was medically determined a “Low risk” in the community because he has No prior history of felonies or misdemeanors. There is NO history of drug or alcohol abuse and NO record of aggression or violence in prison. A Probation report rendered him suitable for release. The Parole Board deemed him “extremely intelligent and motivated.” The Deputy District Attorney called Frederick “Phenomenal” and commended him for only having one write up during his 10 years in prison. However it was the one write up coupled with Frederick’s “youth” that was the Deputy District Attorney’s reason for denying him Parole. The infraction was for Possession of Contraband; Cell phone and Charger. Again, the DA cited that Frederick’s, “Youth brings about the possible threat to others“. So now his age is the determining factor?! This makes absolutely no sense to me. Frederick maintains his humble presence but admits it can become a hard pill to swallow when he sees murderers, rapist, and child molesters being found suitable to return to the free world.

I personally read through all his Hearing records and became amazed that there were over 50 pages of Frederick being complimented and praised by the Board of Prison Terms on how he has used his prison time constructively and exceeded above and beyond their expectations. Let’s sit with this for a minute…….. The District Attorney speaks GREATLY of Frederick then recommends Denial of Parole because of his age and possessing a cell phone?!

Frederick’s most recent Parole Hearing took place this year January. He was once again denied. This reason? because his crime was “Heinous” and “Sophisticated”.

I’m asking all of you who has been touched by his case to please show your support by writing Frederick Hill or simply sending him a card encouraging him to stay fighting for his freedom.

Please Holla at ya Gyrl and let me know your thoughts good, bad or indifferent.

Frederick Hill #P09300 d11/241 low
Chuckawalla Valley State Prison
P.O. Box 2349
Blythe, CA 92226

I heard something interesting on National Public Radio (NPR). Early this year, President Obama visited Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington D.C. When asked by the cashier if he wanted his change, President Obama replied, “Nah, We Straight.” Based on President Obama’s use of the term, “Nah, we straight,” NPR comprised a segment on
Coded Language. It was said, “Obama uses coded language, mannerisms, and symbols that resonate with Blacks (people) but may be missed by Whites.”
To others the language may be coded but for Black people it is a unique dialect we share among one another. Historically we have always spoken in code; mainly to prevent being killed. However as time progressed, the manner in which we speak continued to evolve. We share a non-verbal communication as well. For example: I can look at a Black person whom I do not know and gesture or display a non verbal message and it will be pick-up without the faintest hint of confusion. I would love to say this “language” is something taught, but I’d be lying. I actually believe it’s in our DNA strand.

Did NPR discuss this because President Obama used a term unfamiliar to all Americans or to expose his use of a language favored mostly by black people? Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: Today’s White House will not always reflect the style, culture and language of the last 43 Presidents. Already President Obama has apprised America into taking a genuine interest and focus on our culture; our language.

Do you feel Blacks and White hear Obama differently? Speak to me….I’m listening…Holla at ya Gyrl !

This month I will receive my first paycheck minus 10% thanks to Governor Terminator. Having to live with a 10 percent cut while still doing a 100 percent job is difficult yet I have much to be thankful for.

I am thankful that I’m spawned from a culture and heritage possessing the strength, ability, and endurance to live without. A culture where adaptation is a constant and having to stretch a dollar is sometimes necessary. Although this is my first global recession, I’ve been through many in my lifetime except my mama called it a different name: Making Ends Meet.

Growing up it seemed we were always in a state of recession or…Making Ends meet. There was no depression or suicidal intentions. When ends didn’t meet my Mama did what she had to do to supplement her income. She has been a Baby Sitter, House Cleaner, Meal Preparer, Cookie Maker, Errand Runner, and Gardener to name a few. My sister and I had to live without the latest and greatest toys because getting what we need took precedence over what we want. We were forced to use our imagination. Therefore we sewed our own doll clothes, made dollhouses out of card board boxes, rode bikes, skated all day long, and made “gourmet” pies from dirt and water. Yes, we experienced difficult times, but through it all there was a whole lot of fun and laughter.

When I watch the “panic antics” of the news and other media outlets talk about our recession, I’m thankful my peace and happiness are not invested in “things” I can’t afford or trying to keep up with the Jones’. Who are the Jones’ anyway?

How have you been affected by this recession? Can you relate to M.E.M?…I’m listening …..Holla at ya Gyrl !

Godspeed,

Latoya

Now that we are nearing the end of January, you should be establishing a good stride in the Marathon of pursuing your Dreams. There are those who took off sprinting and are way ahead of you, but don’t worry; most of them will hit the wall as that New Year excitement begins to wear off. You are mentally prepared for the long haul. As those around you notice your persistence growing stronger, most will be inspired as well and want to join your team. You need good people around you so use them. Allow those who are truly for you to be your cheerleaders. A wonderful thing happens when you begin to move in your own direction; you lead others to do the same. But just as you attract those who support you, you will also be targeted by those who despise you: The Haters and The Fakers.

The Fakers are like wolves in sheep’s clothing. They mesh themselves with your real supporters. They high-five you, pat you on the back and celebrate with the masses on your achievements but deep inside they anticipate your failure. They look for opportunities to instill fear and doubt. In a subtle manner the Fakers shoot down your ideas, always willing to tell you why you shouldn’t as opposed to why you should. The Fakers are the worst of the worst. Once identified, they should be immediately eliminated from your team.

The Haters are simple. Their only purpose is to hate on YOU. I give Haters respect because unlike the Fakers they know and embrace their position. A Hater will let you know up front where they stand. They hunt you and create chaos because they want you destroyed. Haters get angry when you seek to climb above and beyond what is “acceptable”. Don’t EVER waste your time trying to convert a Hater….. But you can be strategic in using them as motivation. When you see Haters, smile and keep it moving. The closer you get to the finish the harder they’ll hate. That’s what they do; so don’t keep’em happy, keep’em Hating.

Have you been targeted by The Fakers and The Haters? I’m listening…Holla at ya Gyrl !

Today the nation stopped at 12:06 p.m.

At 12:06 p.m. our hearts paused its beat as President Barack Obama uttered the first words of his Presidential Inauguration Speech.

At 12:06 p.m. America received a welcome overdose of Hope and Change; injecting renewed spirit, renewed confidence, true unity, and confirmation that when we stand together as a people, America is truly our country.

November 4, 1841 Frederick Douglass delivered one of his first recorded anti-slavery speeches for the Massachusetts Society. In this speech Mr. Douglass says, “They will not allow that we have a head to think and a heart to feel and a soul to aspire.”

Today, souls of Americans drown in aspiration, acknowledgement, and testimony that we have reached the epitome of what our Ancestors hoped to see. I can only imagine they are looking down upon us with a quiet smile saying “well done America…well done.”

I know we have a long road ahead of us which will likely get worse before it gets better, but I didn’t want to worry about that today. I simply wanted to emerse myself in the moment. This is my reflection as I witnessed History take place, what about yours? I want to know how you felt today at 12:06 p.m.; good, bad or indifferent…I’m listening…Holla at ya Gyrl !

I never become tired of talking about the things we dream of. Dreaming about things to come or the way we envision ourselves is vital to our foundation and maintaining ourselves as an individual. Last week we acknowledged that life does get in the way of our dreams. Growing up our choices seems limitless then we become adults with responsibilities and discover it’s not all that we thought it would be. The freedom is great but the margin for error closes quickly. We leave High School and enter a life of true responsibility. As our responsibilities increase our passion for pursuing our dreams slowly fade away. Then one day you wake up and the kids are bigger, your career is steady, life becomes a little more balanced and you discover the passion you had for your dreams is still within you. Where do you start? Now that you’ve lived 10 or more years in strict rules and rigid timeframes it’s time to unlearn some of what you’ve dedicated your life to; coloring inside the lines.

I use the term bittersweet often because it sums up something that’s good and not so good at the same time. I view rules as being bittersweet. We need rules to establish order. However, when too much focus is placed on rules we neglect our ability to be creative. We start seeing the glass as half empty as opposed to half full. Our optimism is replaced with pessimism, and we shift our thinking to why we “can’t” as opposed to why we “can”. We let people convince us to remain in our comfort zones though it is innate in us to venture. So, in order for us to let go, revive our creativeness and nurture what we are good at we should start by giving ourselves permission. Permission to;

- Be different!
- Have a crazy idea and treat it seriously!
- Talk about what you dream in your heart and believe in it!
- Be confident and somewhat arrogant about your natural talents!
- Invest in making your dream come true!

Let’s move forward together and shift our dreams from our heads and back into our hearts. What dreams do your heart desire? I’m listening…Holla at ya Gyrl !

Godspeed
~Latoya~

The New Year represents a fresh start and renews our motivation to be better, do better and challenge ourselves outside the limits of our boundaries. How many New Years have you said,” this is the year I do…” just to find yourself saying the same thing again the next year and the next? What happened? You were ready to start your business, write that novel, shed 20 pounds, go back to school etc.. then you let life get in the way…… again.

We are gifted with a mind that has no limits or boundaries. I bet when you close your eyes and daydream, you see yourself as the person you want to be; strong, confident, large and successful. Then you return to life and start following rules again. Remember in Kindergarten how it was so important to color inside the lines? Even in our early development we were taught rules but not really allowed to foster our creativity and the things we are good at. Your mind paints a better reality of what you can become because no one is there reminding you to color inside the lines.

Let’s make 2009 the year we start and pace the race. Bringing your dreams into reality is more kin to a Marathon as opposed to a short sprint. But because we have no patience for the sacrifice, labor and mental training it takes to begin building an empire we tend to “hit the wall” around Spring disappointed the dream hasn’t come into fruition. We allow people to discourage us and we discourage ourselves with negative affirmations. You know what negative affirmations are? Excuses!

- “I can’t because of…”
- “I don’t have the money”
- “If my husband/wife would have supported me..”
- “I’m not that good yet..”

Can I love you enough to tell you no one should out-do your excitement for your own dreams? Furthermore, no one should work harder than you in pursuing your dreams. Here’s a question: If your only source of food came from what you grew on your own land, would you allow someone else to plant your seeds and nurture your soil? Think about it, I’ll wait…hmmmmmmmmmmmm….that’s what I thought! Then why do so with your dreams? You’ve talked about it long enough and you’ve hit the wall enough to know that short sprints don’t work. It’s time to pace your race. Are you ready for your Marathon?…..I’m listening…….Holla at ya Gyrl!

I grew up with a Father who staunchly supported my dreams no matter how silly or unrealistic. My dreams were filled with bright lights, big screens, and Broadway bill boards bearing my name! When I wanted to be a Singer, my Daddy let me play my records as loud as I wanted. When I thought I would be the first female Break Dancer to make it big, my Daddy brought home the biggest cut of card board he could find. As my dreams moved to being a Rapper, he bought me a microphone, notebooks, and never winced when I scratched up our records trying to D.J. in our tiny Living Room. I knew without a doubt I could reach the stars, so of course when I began raising my kids I even went a step further. I’ve been Team Mom too many times to count, Assistant Basketball Coach, loudest Mother in the stands, snack person and transportation. 3 of my sons loved sports and wanted to be bigger than Michael Jordan, Kobe, the Barber twins, etc., and my 4th son found his gift in academics. He was the only one who never expressed his dreams or talked about what he wanted to be when he grew up.

Then one day, my son told me he wanted to be the first Black President of the United States of America. I shook my head in agreement and support of his dream knowing I was telling him a lie!

I knew this country, with all its freedoms, democracy, beauty, and protection of its own, this unspeakably wonderful land of opportunity for all men of all races would allow my son to be anything he was capable of reaching for, but President was not one of them.

I hoped and prayed my son would find another dream to strive for. One without a meaningless purpose. As my son entered High School he did shift his focus. Even he opened his eyes realizing he may never see a Black President of the United States in his life time.

So, today as I intently scrutinize the Presidential election, I stand speechless, proud, shameful, and vindicated. Shameful that I didn’t have enough confidence in America to believe I would see a Black President and vindicated that I no longer have to lie. When my little Nephews and Nieces tell me they want to grow up and be President, I can look them straight in the eyes and PROUDLY tell them they can be anything they want to be……… including President of the United States of America…Let’s vote for a Change We Can Believe In.

~GodSpeed~
Latoya