Shock Value: Entry 43 "I Pray For You, You Pray For Me"

I won't keep you all long today, but I was reminded on yesterday evening that we all still have a lot to be thankful for. During my nightly viewing of Anderson Cooper 360, they did a segment on Haiti. You would think by now the country is in its recovery phase, but that is just not the case. Thousands of Haitians are still without food, running water, and other daily necessities that we take for granted.

Planes are crashing, terrorists are plotting, and atrocities are occurring all over the world. In the midst of all the mayhem, I ask each of you to take a moment today, to give thanks to your GOD, Buddha, Allah, or whomever your deity is. Give thanks for your mere existence and then take a moment to pray for peace and for your neighbors. In troubled waters, only GOD can calm the seas of life and bring us back to shore. A wise woman once told me, "Prayer Changes Things." And, I believe it.

I wish you all well today, and I too pray for serenity, strength, wisdom, health, and prosperity for all of you. I ask in HIS name that each of you are kept and that this world calms down. Eat well today and be merry.

~Minister Brotha~

Daily Laugh; Or Is it? WTF?!

Shock Value: Entry 43 "T.G.I.S.!"

People, People, People; "Thank GOD Its Saturday!" I don't know what type of week you all had, but I could've done without last week. It is history now; so lets move on. I really think weekends are somewhat overrated because they are always too short and most of the time you have so many things you didn't get done during the week, that you don't get a chance to enjoy your off days.

I am not sure what you all have planned today, but you need to do something. Don't just sit in the house for the next two days, couple of hours or minutes and do nothing. I mean don't let the fact that your finances aren't up to par, stop you from getting out of the house. You know there are a number of free things that you can do that won't cost you a dime. Call up your gurls or the hommies and tell everyone to grab something out their fridge or cabinet and head over to your spot or the nearest park. Don't forget the music and playing cards. We all know that when one or two of us get together; we know how to "get it popping!

So don't hesitate. Pick up the phone & hit up your bestie right now. Time to get it crackin! Whatever you get into,be responsible--no need for any extra DUIs or fatherless babies.

Be Safe,

Daily Laugh: This Ish' Isnt' Funny To Me At All! But I Am Sure Some Of You Will Enjoy; Its Probably Your Kid Or You Got One Just Like Him!.

Shock Value: Entry 42 "Are We There Yet?"

To end my serious of questions to you all, my loyal fans, I wanted to ask a more serious question this time around. Are we there yet? Let me explain. I remember back when the presidential election season began. Yes, it took me awhile to learn how to pronounce his name and research his historical journey to the US Senate, but when now President Barack Obama became a candidate for president; it was believed that We had made it. I remember staying glued to CNN from his bid for the Democratic Nomination to the night Senator John McCain conceded and Mr. Barack Obama, was named the next President of these so called United States.

I must admit I expected the world would change in a major way. But, I have now come to realize that the only way the world will every change is if we change our ways and mannerisms. I assumed that racial minorities, especially Black Folks, would behave more appropriately now that we have made it to the Big House; Boy was I wrong! The drop out rate, crime rate, and murder rate in this country is still astronomical in the black community, as compared to their Anglo-Saxon counterparts. Take Chicago for instance; you would think since President Obama is a product of this great US city, they would at least try to get their act together; wrong again!

As I write this message I guess I kinda answered my own question. Are we there yet? H. E. double hockey sticks, No! And honestly we won't ever be there, wherever there is, until we begin to hold our family, friends, spouses, and favorite rappers and entertainers accountable for destroying our communities and race. I should've known better than to believe that one man could change the world. Hey, if JESUS struggled why wouldn't man? If Brothers Martin and Malcolm couldn't get us together after both of them died for our civil rights and freedoms; why should I believe we as a people would act any differently now?

I challenge each and every one of you to play your part. There are a number of evil forces out there, that have come here, like RAP and Rappers (Wangstas), to kill and destroy us socially and culturally. I said it and I will say it to any one's face! I HATE RAP AND RAPPERS AND EVERYTHING IT AND THEY STAND FOR. NOT ONLY DOES RAP CULTURE, NOT HIP HOP CULTURE, FALSELY REPRESENT WHO WE ARE AS A PEOPLE; IT HAS GIVEN OTHER PEOPLE THE RIGHT TO DENY US OPPORTUNITIES TO GET TO KNOW THEM OR LEAD BECAUSE THEY THINK WE ARE ALL DEGENERATES, IGNORANT, TATTED UP, INARTICULATE, AND UNMOTIVATED; UNLESS ITS BOUT DOPE, HOES, AND MONEY.

WUUUU- SAAA; GOTTA REMEMBER THOSE PRESSURE POINTS! Have a great weekend!

~Love is Love; Spread it or kill yourself!

Daily Laugh: This Takes Laying Of The Hands To A Whole New Level; S.M.D.H.!

Shock Value: Entry 41 "Who Watches Movies on B.E.T.? W.T.H.!"

So, either you all have nothing else better to do. Maybe you are stealing cable from next door. Either way, Who in the hell watches those E-Level BET movies? Now I know we all get bored to death at times. And, even though we have 300 channels, some days there isn't one thing on on tv. But, I am horrified by the quality of programming on every coon and whigger's favorite television station---B.E.T.

Not only was I exhausted with BET after they got rid of Video Soul, Hits, Big Tigger, Rap City and AJ and Free; then replaced it with such buffoonery as College Hill and the new 106 & Park. Thanks, Tracie Edmonds for developing a show that makes minorities want to go to college to get drunk, beat up, or a train ran on them. Why promote graduation or show the positive aspect of college? And, Terrance and Rocsi are the absolute worse!

I digress. I write today to speak on these made for TV movies that B.E.T. has begun showing. Two words: GOD AWFUL. Who watches those shows? The plot is just as bad as the acting. Don't get me wrong, I know everyone isn't an A-List actor and we all have to start somewhere, but these movies make me want to gauge my eyes out with rusty nails. Maybe they are developing these horrific cinemas for the older crowd, cause Lord knows they don't make them for anyone else.

I am so disappointed in B.E.T. I use to appreciate its content. But my Frat, and former founder let the quality of programs decline and then he sold it and ran away like a runaway slave. B.E.T. (Buffoons, Entertaining, on Television.) Oh, how you have hurt me and the future generations of America. While I hate the Boondocks with a passion--(Aaron McGruder I am coming for your anus soon!;) I agree with its banned episodes on B.E.T. Enough said. B.E.T. ---Ultimate Fail.

Just Saying.....

Shock Value: Entry 40 "And We Still Together...For What?""

I think over the course of the next couple of days I am going to continue to ask questions that I want you all to help me answer. Can someone tell me why couples and married people stay together even though one or more of them are cheating? When in the world did infidelity become an acceptable behavior. It is so funny how married people always state that they want to leave, but they are staying for the sake of the kids. As if, it makes it better for them to see mom and dad under the same roof displaying zero forms of affection for each other.

What is the purpose of being with someone, just to say you have someone? Most of the people I know in relationships are generally faithful when there significant other is in the room. When that person leaves---the are just as available as an unoccupied parking spot or other single people around them. I am perplexed as to why married people or people who are in relationships see the need to hang out with single people. The behaviors and actions of the singles crowd can't be encouraging to people who already have someone. Plus, if you have found your King or Queen; why aren't you home in your castle celebrating what you two have built together?

I am not saying that people in relationships or marriages shouldn't have fun, hang out, or assemble themselves with single people; but I am saying this possess a challenge for your friends when a guy or female tries to holla and you and you don't indicate to them you are married or have a man/woman. Now that puts us in a precarious situation. Worse than that, is when you lie and say you are with us, to your significant other or spouse, and you forget to tell us. So when your significant other asks us, we are put in a situation to have to lie for your trifling butt. Then if you get caught, now everybody think we are hoes together. Negative!

Just take this as a fair warning. One person's trash is another person's treasure. If you don't love the one you are with; let them be free to go and you go find someone to love or that you want to build a future with. Stop blaming it on the kids, finances, or the fact that your other partner is married too. What's going to happen is you are going to make plans to leave your Prince or Princess for them and they are going to decide to stay where they are at. Then you, dummy, will be singing that lovely song, "All By My Self..."

Word to the Wise

Daily Laugh:This Is No CNN, LOL!

Shock Value: Entry 39 "The Kanye Work Out Plan""

People, People, People,- Now I have to raise a question for you all to answer. How skinny is too skinny? I am a proud member of the YMCA. Although I normally go to play basketball, when I do decide to hit the general fitness area, I am shocked at the various types of people in the gym.

First, you have your--- I just gotta lose a couple pounds to get in this dress treadmill, magazine folks. Then you have that---I ran cross country in hight school and now its on to the marathon, ipod and large bottle of water persons. There is also "the gut"--- those guys who refuse to stop drinking bud light, but show up to the gym one a month with the smedium t-shirt and his son's shorts on. There is always a church deacon in the room, with a t-shirt from the 1930s, khaki shorts, and soft bottom shoes with those GOD awful black church socks. Every now and then you will see the diva, who refuses to sweat and has her hair wrapped up like she is bracing for a hurricane or she is an official part of the Taliban.

My personal favorites are the ---I am so big, watch me look at myself, while I make grunting sounds and lift this whole entire building guys and the skinty women who talk about their fat rolls, so they are running like they are freed slaves and don't have a thing to lose, but the time they are wasting. I know its summer time and everyone wants to get skinny. But I encourage you to get fit and heathy--- and stay that way.

Put your Kanye Workout Plan into Action--Today!

Shock Value: Entry 38 "Stop Apolo-lying"

I ain't wasting a minute today baby! I have to get right in your grill woodworkz. I am so frustrated with people who feel the need to "apolo-lie." Now that I have coined a new term, let explain to you the definition.

Apolo-lie: (verb) the act of apologizing for something but in an untruthful manner.

Shawn knew he was cheating on his girlfriend last night with Beckie, but he felt the need to tell his girl and apolo-lie, to make her feel better about the fact that his is a cheater.

Now all of you on here have heard people apolo-lying. They tell you they are sorry for cursing at you and then in the next sentence they drop the f' bomb again. Or your best friend borrowed your purse and brought it back with cigarette burns on the bottom and empty honey bun wrappers inside. When you ask her about it, she is quick to say how sorry she is and she will get you a knew one. Note to self: "If she had the money to buy a new one, she wouldn't have borrowed your dang bag." (Preach, preacher!)

Anyway, this is my revolt day. I want to start a movement to ban all Apolo-Liars. Start calling these ingoranuses out. If you know they lying, tell them they lying. No matter how hard they try men generally are horrible liars. I think we are the main culprits of the apolo-lie; but some of you chicks got it down pack too.

So join me in my revolution to rid the world of these people who think they are smarter then the rest of us. The next time you encounter an apolo-liar on the verge of giving you their best piece of work, stop them mid sentence and say, "Why you gotsta lie Craig?" (LOL) Then politely introduce them to you first cousin, Dial Tone.

One

Shock Value: Entry 37 "The Imortance of R & R"

Good Day to you all:

Today I want to talk to you all about the importance of R & R a.k.a. Rest & Relaxation. It is very important that you take time to get as much rest as possible. 6-8 hours of sleep is recommended, but I am sure the average person on this site doesn't get nearly that much because oftentimes you are up all night pondering about the last blog I wrote. (yeah right) Anyway, rest is extremely important for any good diet as well. Rest is just as important as exercise. Thus, I want you all to take time to grab a nap today if you can, or crawl into bed a little earlier tonight than usual.

Relaxation is very important as well. Stress causes a number of issues and can kill you if you allow it. People just need to learn to relax. On a daily basis, I quote the Serenity Prayer.I use to get so upset and frustrated but these days I choose life over stress and heartache. The things I can change, I do what I can, those things I can't, I leave it up to the MAN upstairs. Stop letting everything bother you and get you all worked up. Just relax! I know at times things can seem like they are too much to handle and maybe that is true. So, why worry? Relax, relate, and release.

It makes no sense to shorten your life because you aren't resting properly or you don't know how to relax. Now, I must admit, I am hypocritical with this blog because I am an insomniac, thus I rarely sleep. But, we all can do better. Together we can challenge ourselves to rest more and relax. As a matter of fact, get you a snack, find you a comfy chair, elevate your feet and chill with the kid--- right now!

Peace, Love, & Nappyness

Shock Value: Entry 36 "Congratulations Are In Order"

By now, most colleges and universities around the nation have already held or in the process of holding their commencement/graduation ceremonies. I have had the opportunity to attend and give the commencement address at a few of these. I want everyone to help me as I push this chair back from the desk, stand up, and deliver a round of applause for all those people who answered the call and received or will soon be receiving their college degrees this Spring. It is good to know that although the media only reports on the negative aspects of many communities, people, young and old, from various ethnicities and walks of life; others are completing their educational goals and graduating from college.

To those of you who decided to further your education, and more importantly to those young black men who decided that their athletic and/or rap career was secondary to their degree attainment, we salute you. Regardless of what one thinks, a college degree, even in this post-recession era, will increase your earnings beyond that of a person who only completed high school. Now that you have those papers, remember this: They may be able to say what they want to you or about you, but you earned that degree and that is something no one can ever take away. Congrats! If no one else said it, "we here at WoodWorkz are your family and are truly proud of what you have accomplished. Enjoy your weekend and have a blast! Remember Grad school is waiting....

Be Blessed,

Good Humor: Happy Now? Rap has now crossed over.

Daily Laugh: Never Scare A Black Man

Shock Value: Entry 35 "There is an Epidemic Going on Outside: Part 5""

Topic: Homicide and Gang Activity

Perhaps you haven't been watching the news this year, or your radio and your computer haven't been taking out the plastic. Just in case all of the afore are true, let me bring you up to speed on a few things. Homicide and Gang Activities are taking the lives of our children.

I was sitting on the couch the other evening frequenting a social networking site when I saw everyone talking about this show "the First 48." I vaguely remember being forced to watch a few minutes of one show, because I was at someone else's house and they treat that show like it is a new release at the movie theatre. I say this to say, this show focuses mainly on homicides in various urban areas. I wondered do the viewers know that every time this show airs someone else has been a victim of a hanus, pointless, and usually stupid crime.

Men in American, more exclusively, young black men are dying at an alarming rate. The city of Chicago alone last year had more homicides than soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq & Afghanistan fighting for whatever reason it is now. Oh, the war on Error, or Terror, one or the other. That is a dang shame! Most of the victims were young, black, and talented. Gang violence plays a major role in these deaths too. We all need to take a moment to speak with our sons, nephews, brothers, male cousins, etc. and let them know that we love them and we don't want to lose them over something as irresponsible as the color of the handkerchief they carry in their back pocket or block they live on.

If you doubt the above mentioned isn't that bad; check the facts:

Gun/ Gang Violence & Homicide Rates:

• In cases of Gun violence, the USA ranks 7th in the world

• Homicide rates among 18- to 24-year-olds have declined since 1993, but remain higher than they were prior to the 1980s.^[17] In 2005, the 17 through 24 age group remains significantly overrepresented in violent crime statistics, particularly homicides involving firearms.^[30] In 2005, 17- through 19-year olds were 4.3% of the overall populationof the United States.^[31] This same age group accounted for 11.2% of those killed by firearm homicides.^[32] This age group also accounted for 10.6% of all homicide offenses.^[33] The 20- through 24-year-old age group accounted for 7.1% of the population,^[31] while accounting for 22.5% of those killed by firearm homicides.^[32] The 20 through 24 age group also accounted for 17.7% of all homicide offenses.^[33] Those under age 17 are not overrepresented in homicide statistics. In 2005, 13- through 16-year-olds accounted for 6% of the overall population of the United States, but only accounted for 3.6% of firearm homicide victims,^[32] and 2.7% of overall homicide offenses.^[33]
• People with a criminal record are also more likely to die as homicide victims.^[11] Between 1990 and 1994, 75% of all homicide victims age 21 and younger in the city of Boston had a prior criminal record.^[34] In Philadelphia, the percentage of those killed in gun homicides that had prior criminal records increased from 73% in 1985 to 93% in 1996.^[11][35] In Richmond, Virginia, the risk of gunshot injury is 22 times higher for those males involved with crime.^[36]
• In 2005, 75% of the 10,100 homicides committed using firearms in the United States were committed using handguns, compared to 4% with rifles, 5% with shotguns, and the rest with a type of firearm not specified.^[37] Due to the lethal potential that a gun brings to a situation, the likelihood that a death will result is significantly increased when either the victim or the attacker has a firearm.^[38] The mortality rate for gunshot wounds to the heart is 84%, compared to 30% for people who sustain stab wounds to the heart.^[39]

Further information: Gun violence in the United States by state

• Criminal Gangs have swelled to over 1 million members and account for 80% of the crime in US neighborhoods
• There are approximately 24,500 gangs in the U.S . There were an estimated 750,000 gang members in 2000. The 2009 estimate is One Million gang members (see articles1 & 2) with 147,000 of them currently incarcerated.

• Of the 1 million gang members, about 40% are juveniles (under 18) and 60% are adults, or about 400,000 teenage gang members and 600,000 adult gang members.
  

• jBetween 90% to 94% of gang members are male. Between 6% to 10% are female.
  

• There are approximately 360,000 teenage boys and 32,000 teenage girls in gangs
  

• There are approximately 560,000 adult males and 48,000 adult females in gangs.
  

• Every city in the U.S. with at least 250,000 people has gang activity. 86% of those with at least 100,000 people report gang activity
• 94% of all gang members are male due to low income, poor school performance, no positive after school activities, etc.
• There are between 60,000 and 80,000 female gang members in the U.S.

Approximately 32,000 female gang members are teenagers, and 48,000 are adults.

60% of gangs do not allow female members. (Girls hang around, go to parties, but are not "members."

40% allow female members, but only 1 out of 10 gang members is a girl