I want to quickly raise a question: Are Leaders Born or Raised? The answer in that question is relevant in numerous discussions and classrooms around the nation. If I had to add my two cents to the conversation I would say they may be both.
Some people in leadership capacities, just have it. These are those people who we all know are the ones we want to be in charge of any situation. There is no question that some people have that it factor. If we are going to be lead anywhere, we want that person to be our captain, pilot, shepherd, and/or coach. Born leaders have some type of gene that others just don't have. From their childhood days these individuals were standouts. They have always been the center of attention and parents didn't have to encourage take the spotlight, they just stole it for themselves.
Conversely, the other type of leaders are those that are raised. These people have had either formal training or were taught to take the reigns of the various things they have at their disposal. These are those individuals that have served in various servant capacities and picked up the necessary tools to take over as a leader. Some of these people studied, prepared, and worked diligently to become a leader.
I respect both types of leaders and I don't favor either of them. Personally, I believe that I am a nice mixture of both. I would challenge each of you, especially if you feel that you are a leader, to try to figure out what type of leader you think you are. I appreciate your time.
No need for an introduction today. I am so ashamed of our people. We settle for anything that is giving to us. People pee on us and tell us that its raining. They feed us crap and tell us its dessert. Do we no longer have standards? What happen to the days when people were inquisitive and naturally questioned things as they were presented. I am ashamed to say that those days are gone.
In music, it doesn't matter what the lyrics are or if they are lyric-less, all we say is, "the beat goes hard. Therefore we bang it in our cars, clubs, and/or run to the nearest store to buy it or bootlegg it. We don't care if these idiots are talking about raping children, killing each other, or destroying our community by encouraging our youth to throw away their lives by participating in pointless gang violence.
On t.v., we watch anything. I could talk about several Anglo Saxon shows versus Ethnic shows that are successful but I won't waste my time. No one would be surprised that people of color watch shows that project levels of violence and crime. Perhaps we are attracted to these things, but its shameful. Its no secret I hate the Boon Docks and everything it stands for or is associated with, but not my people. We watch it and laugh away as others in their living room are saying, "that's exactly how they act too." But its all good. You don't care, so why should I?
I am so ashamed that we have forgotten the principles we were giving as a child. I woke up this a.m. wondering why I even blog, mentor, or try to do anything that helps our society. No one else cares. I oftentimes want to put on a black hood, with black jeans, and a ski mask and grab an arsenal of weapons and go crazy. Rappers, Television, & other forms of negative entertainment are slowly leading to the demise of our communities and neighborhoods, but no one gives a DAMN. I can't do this alone people. Maybe I should stage a massive boycott of these things; will you join me? Will anyone show up? Probably not, you are more worried about materialistic crap like when the new J's coming out or the new Hermes bag. Its disgusting. I wish I could fly away.
First off, I have to say I was extremely impressed by the 2010 B.E.T. Awards. I guess the network executives got tired of hearing the constant complaints from last year and decided to turn it up a notch. I must say as a life long critic who at times despises B.E.T. and what they stand for; after last night, I owe you one.
Now, there weren't many moments in the show that I can say were memorable but I have to mention a few that will last forever. First off, Chis Breezy. Of course this is no surprise to me. The network executives and all of America owed Chris this moment. He should have been able to perform at the memorial, but nonetheless he rocked the anniversary. As a grown man you are always discouraged from crying because it may be seen as being weak, but Breezy, cry my brother cry. I haven't seen so much passion and poise since Mike Jack did those performances himself. Chris, this selfish, I am better and more perfect than anyone else world may never forgive you for your actions, but I say after last night, "brother, your slate is clean with me."
I would've loved to see Prince perform a little. Most times those who win the Lifetime Achievement Award do a little something, but he is Prince. The only 4'11 brother who sports a perm and high heels and could walk in any hood in America and get mad respect. Mr. Purple Rain himself, is a boss. But, I am glad he got what he should've gotten long ago. Its always good to honor a legend while they are still with us and not from the grave. Alicia stop climbing on ish' for GOD sakes your preggors!
Lastly, Diddy, Ross, T.I.P. and the rest of the Dirty Money Crew did the most. I have to tell you, I wouldn't trust Diddy to put money in my overdrawn savings account, but the brother makes hits. He has done what no other producer has done with his craft. Watching him on stage was like he really belonged there, grill and all. I thought during the whole Mase Harlem World Movement Diddy was in his prime, but boy was I wrong. Diddy is the man. Now he ain't no Robin Hood, ask Shyne, the Lox, Dream, and his other victims, but nonetheless he is the man.
I thoroughly enjoyed some of the show. Nicki Minaj and Drake are keeping Young Money so relevant. I wonder how long this three headed monster including Weezy will be able to stay together? If anything changes remember your boi posed the question first. All I know is Drake is label head material and if he continues to display his lyrical prowess, he may just join the ranks of some of the best that did it. Nicki doing her thing too for the female emcees. While I hate the whole Barbie thing, her comments last night made a lot of sense. Weezy, what is there to say. This former hot boy has parlayed his way into a multi million dollar lifestyle and has built a franchise that is changing the world. He just needs to stay out of Cell Block 4 (CB4) and he might make billions. Lets see what happens next.
B.E.T. you did well. Yes, I said it. Don't get use to it Ms. Debra Lee. As soon as I feel like you all are slipping, I am on your butt. Have a good day.
Yo- I hope all of you are having a wonderful weekend. Today is Sunday, otherwise known as the Sabbath. I hope all ye faithful and faithless are getting some much needed rest today. But, if you are like some other people I know, you wait until Sunday to do all your laundry, chores, and other stuff. Sunday is not the day you should be doing all that---I digress. Today's topic: Quitting.
All the greats have said it and I am sure you have heard it a million times, "Quitters never win and winners never quit." I believe this to be so very true. No matter what it is that you are trying to get accomplish, whether it be in sports, your life, and/or your career--never give up. Don't quit. The tougher things get, the closer you are to reaching that sweet spot. Sometimes it may seem easier just to quit and start over, but you are altering the course of your life if you don't see your efforts through until the end.
No matter what you are faced with you can overcome it. Just don't quit. Don't quit on your loved ones, friends, pets, or life. If you quit, you are just selling yourself short. The time you put into it, you can never get back. So today, I want you to make an extraordinary effort to finish whatever it is you start. If you are getting beat by a thousand on Madden, finish the game. If your other significant is caught cheating, give them another chance (j/k), if you aren't seeing the results of your diet, give it another week. Whatever it is your doing, don't quit. Quitting is simply not an option.
Jay-Z said it best, "Attitude reflects leadership." I once heard a millionaire say if he had to chose between someone with a Harvard degree or someone with a positive attitude, he would take the positive attitude person every time. As he stated, "you can train people and teach them to do what you need them to know, but you can't train and teach a positive attitude; either they have it or not." Both of these really speak to the importance of today's topic: Attitude.
A positive attitude will take you a long way. Don't let your attitude cut you out of the things you deserve in this life. I am always amazed by how many people, especially those who are getting paid to have a great attitude display the worse attitude ever. Why would you take a job in customer service or in the hospitality industry if you don't like people? Just because you hate your job; it ain't our fault---QUIT!
Attitude is important in your career, professional and personal life. People don't want to share this life with someone who always has a horrible disposition; is always scowling and frowning; and is always complaining and fussing. Look in the mirror, if this is you, think about it. If you don't change your attitude, you are going to find yourself, by yourself.
TGIF! I am so glad that we have made it through another week. Oftentimes, I believe we all take life for granted. Take a moment with me right now to thank your GOD, gods, or whom or whatever you serve for giving you another day. Now to get back on track, today's topic: Relaxation.
For you worker bees out there today's topic is especially for you. I want to encourage you all out there to take time to relax. Relaxation is very important. People who don't know how to relax feel the stressors of life full force. Stress will kill you and if you don't learn how to relax we may lose you before your time.
Relaxation can be in a number of forms. It can be those activities that you do aimlessly and don't cause a problem for you at all. For some of you, these activities may include and are not limited to: jogging, reading, writing, composing a song, socializing, texting, spending time with friends, taking a nap, playing video games, etc. One or more of these activities may help you relax. If this list is too short and you have no other ideas of how to relax; use GOOGLE to search forms of relaxation. Find a method that works for you and get to relaxing.
I am in no way insinuating that you don't know how to relax, but I am suggesting that you do it more often. You have to make time for you. You should spend as much time taking care yourself as you do helping others. Relaxation can be the difference between life and death. You may think I am exacerbating the issue, but I'm not. Do your homework people. What doesn't kill you only makes your stronger. Just try to relax. Stop worrying about things you can not change and move onto those things you can. Relax, Relate, and Release all those stressors!
Enjoy your weekend and please keep the people in the
You already know what time it is. This is your neighborhood life coach back again giving you some pointers that may help you at some point in your life. Today's topic: Procrastination.
Now I know we all do it. As a matter of fact we all probably do it daily; but it isn't good for us. Procrastinating will eventually cause us all kinds of problems. Notice I am saying us, because I am an avid procrastinator as well. But I usually procrastinate on things I am not motivated to do or those things I am burnt out doing. Either way I shouldn't and neither should you.
The saying goes, "don't put off until tomorrow, what you can do today." This is important because as you may well know, tomorrow isn't promised to any of us. UGK (The Underground Kings,) one of the greatest Hip Hop groups of all times put it best, "one day your here, and the next your gone." R.I.P. Sweet James Jones a.k.a. Pimp C. With that in mind, we can began today avoiding this habit of procrastinating.
I know some of you are avid procrastinators too. I mean you wait until the last minute to do almost everything. Some of you do it because you are just lazy. Now that is a whole different form of procrastination and if you are lazy you need a heeling ritual for this habit today. I would like to aspire all of you to join me on my crusade to end procrastination. We all could take advantage of the time given to us and do things right now, at the present moment instead of waiting around to the very last moment. One of these days procrastination is going to be the death of you. One of these days, in your usual fashion, you are going to wait until the last moment to do something and then something else is going to come up and that which you were originally suppose to do WONT GET DONE and there may be a significant price to pay.
If you been tuning into the blogs this week, I been writing about several things I believe to be important in this life. Today in that same vein I am going to discuss: Perseverance.
Webster's dictionary defines Perseverance as: the act of persisting or persevering; continuing or repeating behavior. According to some perseverance is:
commitment, hard work, patience, endurance
being able to bear difficulties calmly and without complaint
trying again and again
You show perseverance when you ...
Give up your tv time to spend hours studying
Try a new sport that is very difficult but you don't give up
Have a learning disability but keep studying even when discouraged
Come from a home where there is fighting and unhappiness but you still try your best
Have missed a week of school but you work hard to catch up
Are at the end of a difficult race but you cross the finish line
Save money and make sacrifices to buy something
Spend hours perfecting your gifts (playing the piano, singing, poetry, etc.)
Study and work hard to raise your grade
Try out for something you weren't successful at the first time
Inside of all of us is the spirit of a champion. It is on you if you show up to compete and stay until the final quarter is over or the whistle blows. In summation, perseverance is about never giving up. Never giving up on your friends, family, dreams, and especially the one you love. It essential to becoming a better you. As I say all the time, "giving up is simply not an option, so choose something else." Whatever you do in this life, don't give up, don't ever give up. No matter how tough or rough it gets you can make it.
I promised my G-Ma that I would do something nice for her today. So to fulfill my promise to her I am going to talk about something else that is extremely important: Balance.
Balance is one of those things you must have in life; not just when your riding a bike or roller skating either. Balance keeps you leveled. Too much of anything is overkill. You have to maintain balance in all thing you do in life. If you lean too far to the left, or too far to the right you are bound to topple over. For instance, if you know you want to drop a few pounds for the summer, you can't just attend a P90 X classes in the evening, but have a CHURCH'S chicken box waiting for you at the house as soon as you get home. Need another one here it goes. In love, balance is important too. You don't ever want to find yourself in a relationship that is anything other than 50/50 (or 60/40 if you find yourself a good one). If the one you love doesn't mirror your actions or demonstrate the same commitment that you do, then your relationship might be out of balance. As the church folk would say, "you two might be unequally yolked."
You have to seek balance to find it. I know too many people who work themselves too hard, but do not take time to appreciate themselves. Or you have those people who sacrifice love and happiness just to pursue a dream that they believe will benefit them more than anyone else can. If you are out of balance, it is like a car with the alignment off; if you let go of the wheel long enough it will begin to drift over to the right or left side, and if there is another car coming you might just crash. I encourage you all to take a moment and weight your options before you do anything in this life. Stop putting the weight of the world on your shoulders or putting too much on your balance. Find balance or you might just fall flat on your face.
How are all of you doing this fantastic Monday morning? It is my hopes that you had a wonderful weekend. Your boy been traveling around the south for the last couple weeks. Now I am back in Lil-Weezy-Anna. Anywho, I want to take a brief second today to talk about something that is extremely important: Setting Goals.
Goal setting is imperative if you want to be successful in this life. Oftentimes people have a number of things they want to accomplish but have no idea how to get where they are going. That is why setting goals is important. Goals help serve as pieces to the puzzle of life. If you don't set goals, you will never know in which direction you are going.
Goals should be set in two forms: Short term and Long term. Short term goals should be those things that can be accomplished over the course of a few months to a few years. These are those things that you can start working on today. For example, if you plan to stop texting and driving. You decide to put your phone away while you are in the car. These type of goals are are more immediate. Conversely, long term goals are those things that may take a few years to a decade. These type of goals take a little more planning and effort to obtain. For example, if you are trying to quit smoking. Perhaps instead of giving them Newport's up all together you begin by minimizing the amount of cigarettes you smoke a day to help lead you to stop smoking all together. Long term goals can be comprised of one or more short term goals.
No matter what you do in life, setting goals will help you get there. But make sure you goals are obtainable. What that means is, if you know you want to be a millionaire, you can't continue to work at Burger King thinking that you are going to amass a generous amount of wealth because you made fry cook in 2 weeks. Now, don't get me wrong, I am not trying to discourage you from dreaming big, I am just saying be reasonable. Don't short change yourself and set your goals to low and don't over extend yourself by setting your goals to high. Make sure you set them realistically. Know like directions in your GPS, the goals you set are eventually going to lead you to your destination or produce the outcome you seek.
Let me begin by saying Happy Father's Day to all the fathers, step-fathers, adoptive fathers, GOD fathers, volunteer fathers, & all those mothers who are forced to serve in this capacity.
I want to take a moment to address how important having a father in a child's life is. Today, unlike any other time in history, kids are raising themselves, and experimenting with drugs, guns, sex, and alcohol at a much younger age. Boys think that being a man is carrying a weapon disrespecting females, baby pimping, and/or dressing like idiots. Young girls think that opening their legs and letting random men touch them and tell them how beautiful they are make them women. Wonder where these kids get this ideas from? Ny assumption is from the television, the streets, and/or from lack of parenting. Statistics show that in most cases, children who are raised in a two parent home often perform better in school and are more likely to be successful over the course of their life. Now, we all know that doesn't hold for all cased because some of use weren't raised with parents at all and we turned out ok.
But, statistics or not, parenting of any kind is important. Children need parents, mothers, and fathers. It is a shame how many men squander the opportunity to assist in the rearing of their own children. It is extremely important to be there for your children, especially your man children. These boys need you more than ever because without your presence these little boys are idolizing their favorite rapper, gangster, or Hollywood thug. If you have a chance to be a father to a child, any child, please do so. These little boys and girls need you. A chance to be a father is a terrible thing to waste. Be a father, be a role model, be somebody for CHRIST sakes.
~Special Thanks To All The Fathers Out There. You Don't Have To Do It,
Yeah I know its Saturday and I hope you all have plans to do the most today, but I had to start your day off with some good nutrients like vitamins. Today I am going to touch on something that I believe is very important, Destiny.
Last night, while some of you were out partying like its 1999, I stayed home as I usually do and had a movie night by my lonesome. The movie of choice,"The Book Of Eli." Now, don't worry if you haven't seen it, I am not going to spoil it for you. Its just that the plot of the movie inspired me to write about today's topic. Everyone, no matter how big, small, tall, short, pretty, skinny, pleasantly plump, black, white, asian, latino, indian, and/or mulatto has a destiny. In my mind destiny is defined by the purpose you are giving at birth to fulfill on this earth. Now, some people have a destiny that may impact the world at large, and some people have a destiny that will only impact their neighborhood, but it doesn't matter we all have one and all are extremely important.
If you are human, like most people are (emphasis on most because some people like myself believe we aren't the same species as everyone else) you may not be so sure what your destiny is. That is why it is important to keep on living. In line with that, you must keep dreaming too. Somehow or someway your destiny may be revealed. In some cases it may never be revealed and you may never know your true purpose until it is time for you to leave this world. I have always wondered what my destiny is and welcome an answer to that question. I know I may never truly receive anything more then a hypothesis to that question, but I will continue to live, work, and serve as I do on a daily basis. And if I never find it, at least I tried to.
Just remember a destiny---everyone has one, even you. HE did not put you on this earth just to put you here. YOU are here for a reason and you should always remember that. Whatever impact you are making at school, work, church, in your community, or at home, keep it up. You never know, your daily activities could be the ingredients that are mixed together to prepare you for your big meal---YOUR DESTINY!
I hope everyone got a good night's sleep. As I stated previously, I am on this car safety kick, so imma just go with it. Today's Topic: Vehicles Need Love Too.
Now just in case you have no idea what I am talking about, allow me to elaborate right now. Your car, truck, van, suv, or whatever form of transportation you have needs special attention. You shouldn't just continually jump behind the wheel and just go, go, go. There are a number of things that your vehicle needs beyond the obvious, gas. For example, the oil should be changed every 3000 miles. Which equates to about every 2-3 months, depending on how much traveling you do. You tires' air pressure should be checked just as frequently or every time they seem a little low. Doughnuts or spare tires are not meant to be driven on for days at a time. They are called spare tires for a reason and you should never go more than 40-50 miles per hour with one on your car. All your fluids should be checked frequently too (i.e., your transmission fluid, brake fluid, radiator coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and others.) Lastly, you should get wheel alignments, tune ups, and check ups too. Your car needs love, just like you do.
If you are like me, you depend on your car for a lot. I mean its my ride to work, church (when I go,) the store, out of town, and a number of other very important excursions. Just remember the car is like the body, if you take care of it, it will take care of you. Instead of going out and buying new cars when you get your income taxes or rims and stuff, perhaps you should take the one you have in for a full 20 point inspection. Pep Boys, Firestone or anywhere like that would be glad to have you. Just stop hoping in your car and driving, driving, driving. It will break down on you somewhere. I would hate for it to be on the side of a dark highway road at night or on your way to work when you are already late. I see way to many cars on the side of the rode, at the mechanics' shop or sitting in some one's yard. Most of this can be prevented if you are proactive and maintenance your vehicle regularly.
This is just a thought: If you spend a few dollars here and there to keep your car up, it may prevent you from spending a few thousand or more later to get it repaired or having to purchase a new car every year. I know some of you are balling out of control, but to those of us who are still living from pay check to pay check, barely, this may help.
Sorry for the delay. Your boy been traveling all day. I apologize for keeping you waiting. I am back atcha on the car tips. Today's topic: Car Seats.
I must share my frustration for a few moments and vent. Last time I checked, children 3 and under must be in this little contraption called a car seat. It's a mini version of an actual car seat that you buckle the little ones in and then you buckle them to your car's seat. This is not something I am making up, its the law. For some reason, parents, mostly young ones, think its cute to ride around with their children in their lap. Now, when I was younger, my grandfather use to sit me on his lap as he drove around. This was actually how I learned to drive, but I was in a huge old truck on a dirt road in one of the most countriest towns in the world. Today, things have changed drastically. People are way more irresponsible behind the wheel.
I write to make a formal request to ask all of you, black, white, latino, whatever; please help save a child's life. Put them where they belong in the car, in a car seat. Also, make sure you don't just sit them in the seat to bounce around, buckle them in. Maybe you don't mind flying through the windshield, but give the little ones a chance to see what a job, car note, house, and adulthood feels like.
Since I have been on this car safety tip, I am starting to feel like Smokey the Bear or one of those D.A.R.E. police officers that use to visit your classroom and talk to you about drugs, alcohol, etc. Of course, half of you all didn't listen cause you were already high and drunk at 8, LOL! Nah, I take that back; I'm just serious. Anywho, I am going to keep on with my tips for the car. Today's Topic: No when loud is too loud.
Ok, I love when the music in my car makes my whole car vibrate. I mean I grew up in the DJ Magic Mike and Southern Style DJ's bass era. So, the kid can appreciate a great sound system. Now, I consider a great sound system to be one that has a nice balance of treble and bass. I don't do all that trunk rattling. I think that's just stupid. Also, this new trend of putting one speaker under your hood, so you can roll up your windows and force everyone else to listen to that crap you play is ri-damn-diculous too! But hey, if the aforementioned are your things, by all means enjoy.
My message today is about being respectful with your volume, especially at certain times of night, at stop lights, in church and school zones, and at any other time you may encounter those of the older and younger generation that shouldn't be exposed to your tasteless music, (i.e. Mr. Bust-It-Baby himself, Plies, and other nasty rappers.) I use to be surprised by the level of females who enjoy this crap, but not anymore, because as the smartest girl on the planet told me once in a debate about rappers and the B word, "when they say B*tch they not talking to me, so I don't worry about it.--B*tch please! I digress.
I ask out of respect, please ask your fathers, brothers, uncles, cousins, sons, and male friends to be more courteous with their music levels. I don't understand why people roll all their windows down in extreme heat, just so they can show off their music equipment in the car. Or why they get to a traffic light and have to turn their system all the way up. It sad because other cultures be looking at us as if we are so ignorant. Sad to say it, but some of us really are. Not that everyone doesn't do it, but some of us do it more often. It's really not hard, just take a second to know your surroundings. If you are riding through a neighborhood at 2,3 in the morning, who you trying to floss for; everyone was sleep until you ignant azz came thru---arrggg....I hate Ninjaz (Side Note: They come in all races, shapes and sizes)
I don't know why I am on this safety tip right now, but as a believe in synergy and letting it flow I'm going to just go with it. Today I want to talk about another car safety topic: Road Rage or as I refer to it, "Raging on The Road."
Now, I will begin this blog in true D.A. Intellek fashion, by saying yes sometimes I get a little anxious when behind the wheel of a car. But, my anxiousness comes from people who do not follow the laws of traffic and do obvious things that may lead to accidents. My opinion is, "cars don't kill people; stupid people behind the wheel of cars kill people." I want you all to give me one moment of your time to hear this carefully.
Vehicles are nothing to play with. If you are always running late, don't get made when other people are cruising down the street at a snails pace. It's not their fault you get up early, get dressed early, but still manage to somehow run late. You need to leave earlier. If you know you are late frequently, you need to make a special point in your life to get a move on sooner than your usual departure time. I know the fast lane is for people who drive the speed limit or about 9-12 miles over it, but people aren't always going to be courteous and move over because you pull up on their bumper. Find an opening in another lane and move over and keep it pushing. One thing that bothers me the most is the driver that speeds out to turn or get in front of you, but slows down. Ewwww; that grinds my gears, but its not that bad. You just have to maneuver your way around them too.
My advice to you is to slooooowwwww dooowwwnnn. The Good Book says, "Be Anxious For Nothing. THE RACE IS NOT GIVING TO THE FAST OR THE SWIFT, BUT TO HE THAT ENDURETH TO THE END" The way you drive--- you might make it to the end--of your life that is! Slow and steady wins the race people. And do me a favor people; lay off the horn. I am telling you now, if you are behind me in traffic and you blow your horn, prepare to reach the highest point of pisstivity, because I am going to make it worse and slow all the way down. I hate horny people in cars. (You Know What I Mean.)
Today, make a special effort to relax while you drive. Enjoy your little vehicle excursions. Life is too short to speed through it. Plus, 9 times out of 10, you are still going to be late anyway. Late is late, rather it is 2 minutes or 15; so deal with it. Be smart, Be safe, and Be courteous.
~Sings, "Baby Lets Cruise, Awaaayy, From Heeeerreeee."
To those that may not know...This is what Hip Hop is supposed to sound like...
This is proof positive that hip hop is both alive and well.... Dang, makes me want to start writing again... Cats done got so lazy and this should be a wake up call. To bad they had to go over seas to do this. Maybe I should move the London... Hmmm....
Now before you all chop my head off, let me first say we all do it, but we shouldn't. Texting while driving is very, very dangerous. It is one thing to be on your phone, but texting delays your response time tremendously. Most recently, I saw a special on CNN where a gentleman demonstrated how texting while driving affects a person's ability to react to people stopping suddenly in front of them. You would be amazed how texting caused the driver to be less aware of his surroundings. This phenomenon has become so bad, that innocent people are actually getting killed in accidents where one driver was texting and the other had no idea that this ride would be the last one they would ever take. Some states have even went so far as to give out citations and points on your driver's license for texting and driving.
I know that may seem drastic, but they say desperate times call for desperate measures. I think people don't realize how dangerous texting and driving is. I had no idea either. So, it is all our jobs to constantly seek out knowledge. Thus, here it is for you. DON'T TEXT & DRIVE; well at least while you are moving. If there is something you absolutely have to say and you refuse to call that person for whatever reason; wait until you reached the next stop light or pull over on the side of the road. Trust, I am not perfect. I am fighting the texting while driving demon too. But, I have decided to lead by example. From henceforward, I am going to take my own advice. And if you happen to be in the car with me and you see me do it, please address it. Respectfully though; I would hate to have to put your anus OUT my whip.
Anyway, be smart, be safe, and be courteous to others on the road. Half of you have road rage anyway (I'll talk about that tomorrow,) so slow down and use that ear piece you have that you only pull out in the club and talk like normal people. Texting while driving is quickly becoming as dangerous as driving while drunk. Both can affect your abilities and also kill innocent people. Don't wait until its too late to put your phone down and pay attention to the road. If you have to text; I heard the passenger seat is the bomb!
I hope you all are enjoying your weekend. It is a pleasure daily to get the opportunity to speak with each and every one of you. Today's topic: "Everyone has a dream."
I have come to understand that no matter who you are, where you where born, where you are from, or who you are kin too; everyone has a dream. Some people knew from their kinder years that they wanted to be a fireman, doctor, or a lawyer. Unfortunately, some people are like me---way beyond their adolescent years and still have no idea what they want to be when they grow up. But, that's okay; you just keep on living and keep on dreaming.
Everyone has a dream and no matter what people say, continue to press towards the mark. Whatever you do, don't get discouraged. Not to be a Debbie downer but as I always say, "everyone can't be a rapper, actor, or rich." But there is something everyone can contribute to this world. Find that one thing you will do for free everyday and find a way to get paid for it.
I am the eternal dreamer and I await the day when more of my dreams turn into a reality. You should too continue to dream as well until yours reach the realization phase.
I promise not to hold you all to long today. I know it's Saturday and many of you have plans to keep you busy for the entire weekend. Its hot so stay hydrated. Today I want to talk to you all about Patience.
Patience is extremely important. The GOOD BOOK says, "Be Anxious For Nothing." I know we would like things to happen a lot quicker in our lives. For example, if you are seeking a new job, a raise on the current one, or waitng for that promotion you want really bad. It will come, but you must be patient. This is not just about labor, but in relationships as well. I know you two may have been dating for years now, but he or she may not be ready for that commitment or to jump the broom. Don't rush it; it will come in due time. There is nothing worse than someone being forced or strongly encouraged to do something before they are truly ready. Then if the outcome isn't what you sought, there is a problem.
Patience is a virtue and we all have to work on being more patient. No one is perfect, but just know everything comes in due time. HE will not give you more than you can handle. Just sit back and relax. Being patient causes you not to stress as much. If there is something on the horizon for you it will come. Regardless of popular opinion there isn't a thing in the world you can do to make it come faster.
Greetings Nationiers, this is your captain speaking...
What inspires you?
As we move into the new millennium we are introduced to new and exciting ideas and concepts. We come in on out of contact with new people, places, and things. But how much do we really take from these associations? Approximately 10 years ago, I had a conversation with a young man who gave me a very unique and interesting perspective about life. The young man told me “...never prejudge people before getting a chance to really sit and dialog with them...” He continued on saying “...everyone we meet in life has crossed our path for a purpose...” and “...its our job to learn and take as much as we possibly can from each and every encounter...” I must admit, I didn't completely grasp or agree with his sentiments at the time, but as I've lived day after day and year after year, those comments began to ring louder and louder in my mind. What I have grown to believe about life, in my infinite wisdom, (LOL) is very similar to what the young man was trying to explain all those years ago.
You see, to me, life is little more than a series of experiences meant to teach us more about ourselves and others. It is up to us to learn, grow, and draw inspiration from said experiences. So what are you learning and drawing inspiration from in life? What most of us don't realize or acknowledge is that we as people don't have to be college educated or accomplished to be a teacher. In fact, some of my greatest life lessons were learned from those who have had the minimal-est of education. In other words, I have learned more from these people than I have learned from some of the nations most esteemed professors; real talk.
As you go out today, look around and think about some of the people that you've come into contact with. Think about some of the conversations you've had with friends, family, co-workers, and heck, even strangers. Take some time and reflect on what you've learned, taught, and drawn inspiration from. But please do remember; some people, places, and experiences are meant to teach you what to do, and some are meant to teach you what not to do!!!!
Yall already know what time it is. Yep, its time again for you all to read a message from your neighborhood Admiral. Today I want to talk about something that is near and dear to my heart: Saying what you mean and meaning what you say. Now without further ado, lets get it.
This topic frustrates me even as I type. Just yesterday I wrote about love and in no less then 10 hours later I was flabbergasted with people again. Why don't people just say what they mean, instead of saying that they think you want to hear. I don't desire to have anyone around me who can't critically critique me and share constructive criticism with me. Out of the goodness of their heart and not out of spite of course. This is the reason so many people walk around today with their heads up in the air, because they think they are perfect and darn near it. If more people kept it real and shared their actual thoughts, the world would be a much better place.
Conversely, if you say it, mean it. Stop saying, "I'm done with him or her." When you know your not. Stop with the, "I am sick of these people not appreciating me and what I have to offer so I'm going to find another job." Or my personal favorite, "this year gone be my year." Is it now? If you say it, mean it. You are capable of doing so much more than you know. No one around you may believe that you can do it, but as long as you do, that is all that matters.
Say it, Say it Say it, but please mean it; because you might not get a chance to take it back. So be sure what you are about to say is worth the energy you are going to utilize pushing the words out your mouth. If not, grab a flash disk/floppy disk (for my elders) and save it.
On my way somewhere this a.m. I read a sign that said, "a year without love is like a year without summer." I thought about it for a moment then I realized what the true message was. Love is just as important as all the seasons. Summer is very important to all of us and to the earth. First off, most families spend quality time together over the summer. The summer is important to plant life and vegetation as well. But, the whole premise is to illuminate the importance of Love.
Love is the strongest weapon in this world. It is also the eternal healer. With love one can do so much more, than one can without it. Love keeps us all together, but it must be exchanged equally. Love can be your friend and quickly become your enemy. Love is so powerful it can build a foundation and then destroy the whole entity. Love is impervious to power, but the power of love can determine if a person survives a relationship.
Now I must admit, I am the eternal optimist, but I am unsure if love will ever make its way over here, but I have seen the beauty of love. People all over this nation join in holy matrimony because of this thing cause love. Many of us were breed out of love. Thus, love has many functions and purposes. A number of you out there are still waiting on the moment when you are knocked off your feet or find someone to love you for who you are. In the interim, I am here to encourage you to give love and it will be returned. Whether you see it as a noun or verb, Love Is Love. Whatever it means to you, is just that.
Whats Good Nationiers!? This is your captain speaking.
I'm here today to illustrate the power of actions. Many people fail to realize that the energy one puts out into the universe inevitably attracts similar forms of energy. Think of it in terms of a type of cologne or perfume. Whatever you spray on yourself daily determines what you will attract. If you are a negative person, you will inevitably attract negativity. If you are a positive person you will attract positivity, and so on. With that being said, lets move on to the topic at hand shall we...
Ladies and gentleman, this is Lil B aka BasedGod:
For those who haven't heard of him (and believe me, you re not missing anything), Lil B is a little know street rapper and member of Bay area CA. Rap group “The Pack”. He is also one of the newest members of Soulja boys camp, SOD Money gang. He is probably best categorized as one of these new wave skate/street thug/tight jeans wearing rappers. Astonishingly, the little degenerate has amassed a small following which only demonstrates the general decline of hip hop artists and culture overall. Having listened to what this guy has produced, (I cant with a clear conscience call it music) I have come to the conclusion that this dude was sent by the devil to corrupt young souls. Now I know that this a very extreme statement, but I have good reason for making such assertions. This guy is the talent lacking sadistic architect of songs such as “Hoes on my dick”, “Violate that Bitch”, and “I am God” to name a few. Lil B has also been quoted in songs saying “I am God”, “I always wanted to be God”, and “...bitches on my di*k because I look like Jesus...”.
Now that Ive provided you with an adequate demonstration to lend support to my earlier statements, you should be able to see that my allegations were well founded.
Now, where should I begin??? First things first. Young man, you are not God, you are all that is wrong with music, hip hop, and pop culture all rolled up in one. Secondly, you are a sad byproduct of what our society has created. Young, uneducated, and disrespectful. Third, you're pure garbage and the only reason Soulja Boy signed you is because he's so garbage that he makes anybody standing within a 100ft radius look decent. But thats not the real issue as I see it.
The problem lies in that he has no idea how uneducated and mis guided he is. He obviously has no one to guide him and show him the error of his ways and left to his own devices, he is at the mercy of what the universe has in store for him. Remember what I said earlier about the power of actions? If you spew hate and ignorance in your music and or in your life, you will attract that same hate and ignorance as a result:
Enter the guy in the Polo hat...
Now in no way shape or form do I condone what took place in the above video, but it just illustrates my point. Be aware of the energy you put out. Be mindful of your actions. And choose your words carefully. Don't think that for one second you can be that disrespectful towards God and expect to be blessed and protected. Lil b promotes money, drugs, sex, and violence but as the video shows, none of those things were able to protect him when me was attacked. In fact, out of that entire room full of people, no one came to his aid. I think its time for Lil B to call on God and make some changes in his life. Lets face it, he's not that talented but he's been blessed with an opportunity to affect change, an opportunity that far more worthy people struggle for. Lets hope this incident opens his eyes to what is really important in life.
However, judging by this video, I cant say for certain that he learned anything. And by the way Lil B, it sure looked and sounded like it hurt... And nope! I don't feel you... Seems like an ass whiping always gets niggas minds rights for a lil bit... Leave dem drugs alone young boy.
This is an official challenge to all you WoodWorkz Nationers and everyone you encounter. We have got to do better with the time we have allotted on this earth. Stop embarrassing me! I mean in our relationships, occupations, and personal aspirations. Too many people today are settling. I am not sure if its fear or they just get comfortable, but you have too many things going for you to just take what is given to you.
Today, unlike decades ago, there are more monies & scholarships available to minorities and students of all races to go to college. Most of the time I hear people say, "I want to go or go back, but I just don't have time." I once learned that the things you want are weeks of sacrifice to equate to a lifetime in paradise. Lets look at from another angle. So you are living from check to check each pay period and struggling to make ends meet anyway, and your not going to attempt to find another place of employment because? Or you know that your significant other is never going to be faithful, so you in-turn decide you are okay with having this don't ask don't tell relationship, when you know for a fact it is eating you up inside. Stop saying you are doing it for the kids! You are staying because you don't want to be alone. I guess it better to have 1/8 of someone than no one at all. I digress!
Anyway, people stop with the settling. There is so many opportunities out there. There are plenty of fish in the sea and if the one on your hook isn't the one you want, throw it back. There is truly someone for everyone. Don't miss out. As it pertains to that job you hate; start looking for something new. Regardless of what the media says, there are a number of jobs available. If you don't seek you will never find. You have to want more for yourself, before anyone else can provide you with more. If you are comfortable with just enough, then you will always come up short. We have got to do better. There is so much we have access to, not to do the most with it.
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