I wanna show you that universe type love
The kind that has no limits
That love that takes eons to find the end of
That love that has no gimmicks
Can I show you that timeless type of love?
That will be talked about for generations
The type that women dream of
That gives them that warm sensation
I'd like to show you that priceless type of love
A love that can't be sold
A love you'll never give up
Not even for fortunes untold
Would you like that infinite type of love
A love that knows no bounds
One that never seems to end
No edges can be found
For this love unlimited
I'd give you the world
But the world isn't enough
For you as my girl
Giving you love like no other
Is all I desire
So lady, won't you be my everything
Because my every dream you inspire
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
My Observant Mind: My Sin=Your Sin
I've seen a lot of people taking shots at each other recently and honestly it's a disturbing trend. People are taking offense to words that are meant to build up and praising words that are meant to tear down. It's sad that people won't accept the words of their brothers and sisters and learn from the lessons they are being taught, especially because of prior transgressions.
The bottom line is this, I am no greater than Jimmy who is no greater than Sue. We are all sinners, whether we lie, covet each other's possessions, have slothful or greedy tendencies or lust carnally. No one's sin is greater than the next. We all will have to face judgement at some point for our earthly doings, but who are we to judge each other's actions? Are we playing God toward one another? Or are we shining the spotlight on each others issues to dim the glaring light on our own? There are a lot of cliches to use for this problem, the pot and the kettle, stones in a glass house, etc. But the problem is not identifying the issue, it is fixing the issue. The thing is, do the people even want this issue fixed?
As much as we complain about the hypocritical nature of man, it is something that it seems will never fade. People have a lack of willingness to check themselves these days, especially in a forum where they have an audience whom will hang on to their every word. Instead of understanding the power of the words they speak, most become drunk with power and intoxicated by their momentary stardom and will rant and rave like lunatics to keep that attention. It's a sad but all too familiar sight.
Don't feel as if I'm taking shots at anyone in particular because I'd be just as big of a hypocrite if I said I have never had this issue and I have to keep a constant check on myself because, honestly, I'm no better than anyone else. Let's be honest, none of us are really better than someone else because we all come in this earth and leave the same way, butt naked and alone. But we all are different in our thought processes and in the events that shape us to be the people we are and the problems we deal with. So instead of extending one finger to point, extend 5 to lend a hand and lift each other up and out of whatever darkness we may encounter.
The bottom line is this, I am no greater than Jimmy who is no greater than Sue. We are all sinners, whether we lie, covet each other's possessions, have slothful or greedy tendencies or lust carnally. No one's sin is greater than the next. We all will have to face judgement at some point for our earthly doings, but who are we to judge each other's actions? Are we playing God toward one another? Or are we shining the spotlight on each others issues to dim the glaring light on our own? There are a lot of cliches to use for this problem, the pot and the kettle, stones in a glass house, etc. But the problem is not identifying the issue, it is fixing the issue. The thing is, do the people even want this issue fixed?
As much as we complain about the hypocritical nature of man, it is something that it seems will never fade. People have a lack of willingness to check themselves these days, especially in a forum where they have an audience whom will hang on to their every word. Instead of understanding the power of the words they speak, most become drunk with power and intoxicated by their momentary stardom and will rant and rave like lunatics to keep that attention. It's a sad but all too familiar sight.
Don't feel as if I'm taking shots at anyone in particular because I'd be just as big of a hypocrite if I said I have never had this issue and I have to keep a constant check on myself because, honestly, I'm no better than anyone else. Let's be honest, none of us are really better than someone else because we all come in this earth and leave the same way, butt naked and alone. But we all are different in our thought processes and in the events that shape us to be the people we are and the problems we deal with. So instead of extending one finger to point, extend 5 to lend a hand and lift each other up and out of whatever darkness we may encounter.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
#savecoventry: From Polished Cleveland Magazine
For those who didn't know, the Coventry area in Cleveland Heights is in dire straits. Check out my editorial on it from Polished Cleveland Magazine. Let's do our part to preserve something special and #savecoventry.
Big shout outs to Robin Thomas, Chris Taylor, Varsity Squad and everyone who appreciates the arts.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
She Loves Hip-Hop
There’s this chick that keeps compelling me
I cal her Rhythm Melody
The reason she makes my heart stop
She loves Hip-Hop
While most chicks dream of a wedding dress
She’s debating with the fellas about which MC is best
When most ladies sit home watching Bridezilla
She’s probably listening to the mixtape tribute for J. Dilla
Most girls are concerned with wedding bands
She’s nodding her head to the Wu-Tang Clan
See she loves hip-hop
And that’s what I love about her
Whether rocking to Wale
Or just vibin to Murs
She prefers shell toe Adidas
Over Nine West boots
She don’t want to her Beyonce
She’d rather listen to The Roots
She’s my favorite kind of chick
Likes to vibin and chill
No need for facades
She just keeps it real
She loves hip-hop
And I appreciate her so
Got me feeling like Fab
I can’t let her go...
I cal her Rhythm Melody
The reason she makes my heart stop
She loves Hip-Hop
While most chicks dream of a wedding dress
She’s debating with the fellas about which MC is best
When most ladies sit home watching Bridezilla
She’s probably listening to the mixtape tribute for J. Dilla
Most girls are concerned with wedding bands
She’s nodding her head to the Wu-Tang Clan
See she loves hip-hop
And that’s what I love about her
Whether rocking to Wale
Or just vibin to Murs
She prefers shell toe Adidas
Over Nine West boots
She don’t want to her Beyonce
She’d rather listen to The Roots
She’s my favorite kind of chick
Likes to vibin and chill
No need for facades
She just keeps it real
She loves hip-hop
And I appreciate her so
Got me feeling like Fab
I can’t let her go...
November 4, 2008
The view on the TV was so surreal
I had to call a friend
To ask if it was real
The first time I ever cried
From the doing of a man
Was the first time an African-American
Was voted President of this Land
My faith in a nation was restored
And now I understand that
Years of Hard work does have a reward
So I vowed from that day
To build a legacy
Not only for myself
But for my current and future family
To be a better man everyday
And to work hard
And never let my mind go astray
To work toward my goals
And never ever quit
To build up my community
And to make a difference none will forget
So I thank you America
For helping me to believe
Because Obama is President
There isn’t anything we can’t achieve
I had to call a friend
To ask if it was real
The first time I ever cried
From the doing of a man
Was the first time an African-American
Was voted President of this Land
My faith in a nation was restored
And now I understand that
Years of Hard work does have a reward
So I vowed from that day
To build a legacy
Not only for myself
But for my current and future family
To be a better man everyday
And to work hard
And never let my mind go astray
To work toward my goals
And never ever quit
To build up my community
And to make a difference none will forget
So I thank you America
For helping me to believe
Because Obama is President
There isn’t anything we can’t achieve
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Is the Death of Autotune imminent?
Last night was a defining moment in Hip-Hop as Jay-Z declared in his new record The Death of Autotune. The record has already generated a lot of buzz and has yet to be heard by the entire Hip-Hop community. Sean Carter has been dubbed the unofficial Barack of Hip-Hop, so when he motions for something to cease, it should right? Not so fast. It appears that some of the Hip-Hop faithful have challenged Jay's authority on this record, saying that it's garbage and that Jay is dissing artists that make their living off of ringtone raps and autotune sound. Is it really a diss or is it a challenge to these artists to do something more creative than to piggyback off of the previous man's success? I mean we all know as Hip-Hop fans that paying homage shows that you respect the grind of another artist and have a love for his craft, which is why you hear so many lines repeated in Hip-Hop. However, there is a difference in paying homage and being, to quote Ghostface, a shark nigga (a.k.a. Biter). I mean, let's call it for what it is. You can't cover shit in chocolate and call it candy, it's still shit, just in a different package. I reminisce on the days where Hip-Hop was pure and you could tell artists apart. If Leaders of the New School was on, you didn't get them confused with EPMD. Now you can turn on the radio and here the same song three times in a row sung by three different artists (ref. GS Boys - Stanky Leg, Hurricane Chris - She Fine, and whoever made that Ricky Bobby track). Jay is basically stating that artists aren't showing true talent anymore for the sake of trying to sell what's hot at the time. Whatever happened to trying to make a timeless album in Hip-Hop? There are a few artists who still make good albums but classics are few and far between these days. Honestly, I see a rash of backlash coming for Jay-Z over this track, although I personally loved it and not just for the fact that it's a new Jay-Z track. He actually is saying something that is being talked about in Hip-Hop blogs and is the buzz in Hip-Hop already. But trust that all the autotuned diss tracks and cookie cutter rappers will be taking popshots at Jay and rest assured that when the Blueprint 3 drops that he will address these artists with a few "I heard you talking but I can't see you" metaphors. All I can hope for as a Hip-Hop fan is that some artist hears this track for what it is, takes Jay-Z up on the challenge and creates a masterpiece that will undeniably redefine Hip-Hop. {Bring Back Classic Albums}
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Nike Wolverine Pack
Check out the Wolverine inspired Nike Pack
The Wolverine Dunks and Sabertooth Air Max '95... Pretty slick
The Wolverine Dunks and Sabertooth Air Max '95... Pretty slick
The Nike Dunks
Get these joints here:
PROPER
425 E. 1st St.
Long Beach, CA. 90802
562 628 9100
Back on the Camel... Swag Surfin... or not
I’ve been observing life again from atop a camel hump… Some things really just confuse me and some things are really just funny to me.
1) Steve Harvey’s book causes an epiphany in women. Now they understand what men are saying. – Are there really that many men in the world that are full of shit that women can’t understand simple words? Or is it the whole ‘believe none of what you heard and half of what you see’ thing. Either way, somebody needs to do some soul searching.
2) People are more inclined to rely on word of mouth than actual fact. – I watched person after person talk about how they weren’t eating pork anymore because of the swine flu, yet I saw not one news report that said that eating pork was the thing that spread the swine flu. Amazing how people will spend hours out of the day on the internet looking up the latest dance or celebrity nude photo but won’t look up things that are important to our existence.
3) The media is based on fear-mongering. – While I’m on the subject of the swine flu, let’s talk simple math for a second. At one point when the swine flu was first considered an epidemic, the amount of cases was 300+ and the death toll stood at 8. I found this to be interesting because the regular influenza virus has millions of cases annually and claims hundreds of thousands of lives, yet it isn’t considered an epidemic. And how about those folks who wore the masks to keep from catching it. I wonder how many of them use condoms because AIDS is still spreading rapidly and killing millions worldwide. Can someone say SARS?
4) DRAKE!!!! – Okay, I like Drake as much as the next hip-hop fan but can we please stop with the over-saturation of his music. The man has yet to drop an actual album yet and he’s created more buzz than a lot of the proven artists in the game. What’s going to happen is folks are going to get tired of him before he ever drops an album. I know we are all desperate for something new and refreshing in the game but all I ask is that we don’t kill this man’s career before it starts.
5) What’s Beef – Cleveland artists are claiming that one artist is still another artist’s swag… SERIOUSLY? I wonder if anybody in the actual industry cares? What about the general public? How about we stop the bs’n and start trying to put some of these folks on. Besides, your swag was never yours to begin with.
6) What’s Beef pt. 2 (Nick Cannon and Eminem) – GTFOH!!! Nick Cannon didn’t like the track where Eminem talks about him being with Mariah? Does this mean we get to hear a Nick Cannon track dissing Eminem? Woohoo!!! *insert disinterested face*
7) Boyfriend # 2 – So I guess it’s what’s hot in the streets these days for guys to want to be the other man in a relationship. And what does that say for all the women out here that claim that men ain’t shit yet have a bf #2… Remember that mask I talked about before… Yeah, you should take that joint off in 5… 4… 3… 2…
8) Sex tapes & Naked flicks – Poor Cassie. First you get exposed for being a fraud as a singer, then you get exposed… LITERALLY! I guess since putting Lil Wayne on a track with you didn’t help sales maybe getting naked might huh? And Rihanna and C. Breezy are in the mix too. Sorry if I’m not interested in this either. And give it up for Hoopz (of Flavor of Love fame) for upstaging them all with 7 seconds of, well, giving it up. Fellas are gonna be searching that video for real now. I wonder if I did a sex tape, would more people visit my blog…
I’m getting off my camel for now, I think he’s finally thirsty. Holler at y’all later.
1) Steve Harvey’s book causes an epiphany in women. Now they understand what men are saying. – Are there really that many men in the world that are full of shit that women can’t understand simple words? Or is it the whole ‘believe none of what you heard and half of what you see’ thing. Either way, somebody needs to do some soul searching.
2) People are more inclined to rely on word of mouth than actual fact. – I watched person after person talk about how they weren’t eating pork anymore because of the swine flu, yet I saw not one news report that said that eating pork was the thing that spread the swine flu. Amazing how people will spend hours out of the day on the internet looking up the latest dance or celebrity nude photo but won’t look up things that are important to our existence.
3) The media is based on fear-mongering. – While I’m on the subject of the swine flu, let’s talk simple math for a second. At one point when the swine flu was first considered an epidemic, the amount of cases was 300+ and the death toll stood at 8. I found this to be interesting because the regular influenza virus has millions of cases annually and claims hundreds of thousands of lives, yet it isn’t considered an epidemic. And how about those folks who wore the masks to keep from catching it. I wonder how many of them use condoms because AIDS is still spreading rapidly and killing millions worldwide. Can someone say SARS?
4) DRAKE!!!! – Okay, I like Drake as much as the next hip-hop fan but can we please stop with the over-saturation of his music. The man has yet to drop an actual album yet and he’s created more buzz than a lot of the proven artists in the game. What’s going to happen is folks are going to get tired of him before he ever drops an album. I know we are all desperate for something new and refreshing in the game but all I ask is that we don’t kill this man’s career before it starts.
5) What’s Beef – Cleveland artists are claiming that one artist is still another artist’s swag… SERIOUSLY? I wonder if anybody in the actual industry cares? What about the general public? How about we stop the bs’n and start trying to put some of these folks on. Besides, your swag was never yours to begin with.
6) What’s Beef pt. 2 (Nick Cannon and Eminem) – GTFOH!!! Nick Cannon didn’t like the track where Eminem talks about him being with Mariah? Does this mean we get to hear a Nick Cannon track dissing Eminem? Woohoo!!! *insert disinterested face*
7) Boyfriend # 2 – So I guess it’s what’s hot in the streets these days for guys to want to be the other man in a relationship. And what does that say for all the women out here that claim that men ain’t shit yet have a bf #2… Remember that mask I talked about before… Yeah, you should take that joint off in 5… 4… 3… 2…
8) Sex tapes & Naked flicks – Poor Cassie. First you get exposed for being a fraud as a singer, then you get exposed… LITERALLY! I guess since putting Lil Wayne on a track with you didn’t help sales maybe getting naked might huh? And Rihanna and C. Breezy are in the mix too. Sorry if I’m not interested in this either. And give it up for Hoopz (of Flavor of Love fame) for upstaging them all with 7 seconds of, well, giving it up. Fellas are gonna be searching that video for real now. I wonder if I did a sex tape, would more people visit my blog…
I’m getting off my camel for now, I think he’s finally thirsty. Holler at y’all later.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
I Love My Levi's
Won’t you be my Levi’s
And never go out of style
Those other girls are Ed Hardy
They’re only hot for awhile
They‘ll collect dust in the back of the closet
While I rock you everyday
They only look good with one style
And you’re a good look in every way
Let those other cats have True Religion
And all the passing fads
Just give that classic 501 love
The Levi’s like my dad’s
You compliment my sexy
You look good dressed up or down
The style you have speaks volumes
Without ever making a sound
It doesn’t matter your cut baby
I like you skinny or wide
You can roll for a night on the town
Or spend a nice chill evening inside
I love my Levi’s lady
There just classic sexy it’s true
So won’t you be my Levi’s
I’m so comfortable in you
And never go out of style
Those other girls are Ed Hardy
They’re only hot for awhile
They‘ll collect dust in the back of the closet
While I rock you everyday
They only look good with one style
And you’re a good look in every way
Let those other cats have True Religion
And all the passing fads
Just give that classic 501 love
The Levi’s like my dad’s
You compliment my sexy
You look good dressed up or down
The style you have speaks volumes
Without ever making a sound
It doesn’t matter your cut baby
I like you skinny or wide
You can roll for a night on the town
Or spend a nice chill evening inside
I love my Levi’s lady
There just classic sexy it’s true
So won’t you be my Levi’s
I’m so comfortable in you
Monday, May 11, 2009
Music Reviews...
Relapse by Eminem
Tracks: 20
Rating: ♪♪♪
Eminem finally returns to the game after a near 5-year hiatus, and this album has been highly anticipated. However, the hype and anticipation goes unwarranted as Eminem gives a less than stellar performance on this album. He sticks with his old formula of shocking lyrics and rewind that back, what did he just say material but some of the metaphors that he had been known to kill the game in the past just don’t add up on this album. Sometimes it seems that he relies strictly on his wordplay alone to carry him through this album. However, he does manage to give a few gems Slim Shady style and gives a glimpse into what is going on in the head of Marshall Mathers on the track Beautiful.
Notable Tracks:
Beautiful
Same Song and Dance
My Mom
Underground
Epiphany by Chrisette Michele
Tracks: 12
Rating: ♪♪♪♪
After a strong showing on her first album, I Am, Chrisette had gained a following that anxiously anticipated a new release, and Epiphany does not disappoint. Epiphany shows a growth in the Chrisette as an artist and a bigger budget with more solid production. Lyrically, she gives a stellar performance. She starts the album strong with her lead single, Epiphany, a catchy and mature break-up anthem, and she doesn’t let you go throughout the album. Another solid effort from one of the industry’s up & comers.
Notable Tracks:
Epiphany
Blame It On Me
Notebook
What You Do (feat. Ne-Yo)
In A Perfect World by Keri Hilson
Tracks: 14
Rating: ♪♪♪ 1/2
It’s quite apparent that from first listen to this newcomer that she isn’t as vocally strong as some would hope for, but she makes up for it with strong lyrical content over decent beats with catchy hooks. Keri Hilson gives a decent effort on In a Perfect World... although she does fall short of the hype she generated with two solid singles, Energy and Turnin’ Me On. Overall, it is not a bad album and it isn’t entirely forgettable. She fits in nicely among the R&B/Pop divas of this time period (Rihanna, Beyonce, Ashanti, etc.)
Notable Tracks:
Knocks You Down (feat. Ne-Yo & Kanye West)
Slow Dance
Energy
Turnin’ Me On (Feat. Lil Wayne)
Tracks: 20
Rating: ♪♪♪
Eminem finally returns to the game after a near 5-year hiatus, and this album has been highly anticipated. However, the hype and anticipation goes unwarranted as Eminem gives a less than stellar performance on this album. He sticks with his old formula of shocking lyrics and rewind that back, what did he just say material but some of the metaphors that he had been known to kill the game in the past just don’t add up on this album. Sometimes it seems that he relies strictly on his wordplay alone to carry him through this album. However, he does manage to give a few gems Slim Shady style and gives a glimpse into what is going on in the head of Marshall Mathers on the track Beautiful.
Notable Tracks:
Beautiful
Same Song and Dance
My Mom
Underground
Epiphany by Chrisette Michele
Tracks: 12
Rating: ♪♪♪♪
After a strong showing on her first album, I Am, Chrisette had gained a following that anxiously anticipated a new release, and Epiphany does not disappoint. Epiphany shows a growth in the Chrisette as an artist and a bigger budget with more solid production. Lyrically, she gives a stellar performance. She starts the album strong with her lead single, Epiphany, a catchy and mature break-up anthem, and she doesn’t let you go throughout the album. Another solid effort from one of the industry’s up & comers.
Notable Tracks:
Epiphany
Blame It On Me
Notebook
What You Do (feat. Ne-Yo)
In A Perfect World by Keri Hilson
Tracks: 14
Rating: ♪♪♪ 1/2
It’s quite apparent that from first listen to this newcomer that she isn’t as vocally strong as some would hope for, but she makes up for it with strong lyrical content over decent beats with catchy hooks. Keri Hilson gives a decent effort on In a Perfect World... although she does fall short of the hype she generated with two solid singles, Energy and Turnin’ Me On. Overall, it is not a bad album and it isn’t entirely forgettable. She fits in nicely among the R&B/Pop divas of this time period (Rihanna, Beyonce, Ashanti, etc.)
Notable Tracks:
Knocks You Down (feat. Ne-Yo & Kanye West)
Slow Dance
Energy
Turnin’ Me On (Feat. Lil Wayne)
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Moving On... {New Piece}
As your heart has grown fonder
My heart has grown colder
You walk around on air
I got the weight of the world on my shoulders
You love me
I don’t
You’ll give anything
I won’t
I don’t want to forgive you
You think I should
I don’t want to give my all
You think I could
Through all the pain
I’ve found a love for self
That means so much more to me
Than any monetary wealth
I struggled to maintain for so long
And now I’ve found my peace
I’ve found a new focus
I’ve gained a new release
So your crying complaining and tears
Sad to say are all for naught
Because I found a new love for me
A love I once forgot.
My heart has grown colder
You walk around on air
I got the weight of the world on my shoulders
You love me
I don’t
You’ll give anything
I won’t
I don’t want to forgive you
You think I should
I don’t want to give my all
You think I could
Through all the pain
I’ve found a love for self
That means so much more to me
Than any monetary wealth
I struggled to maintain for so long
And now I’ve found my peace
I’ve found a new focus
I’ve gained a new release
So your crying complaining and tears
Sad to say are all for naught
Because I found a new love for me
A love I once forgot.
One Man
I've given you pieces of me
shown you what I am made to be
Man. father, brother, son
I am all these things in one
I embody these things in this space
one face, one place
one man is all I can be
I try to be Superman
with speed and strength untold
yet I try to be sensitive
longing for someone to hold
I try to be a teacher
for your endless pursuit of knowledge
I try to be the bread winner
to put our children through college
yet through all thisI am still, one man
When you need to feel protected
I try to be your thug
yet I try to be loving
when you just need a hug
I'm your passionate prince
when you want to make love
I'm your prayer partner
when you need the Man above
I work hard to be everything
you could ever want and need
your epitome of strength
the father of your seed
Understand this one thing
one thing about me...
I am only one man
and that's all I can be.
shown you what I am made to be
Man. father, brother, son
I am all these things in one
I embody these things in this space
one face, one place
one man is all I can be
I try to be Superman
with speed and strength untold
yet I try to be sensitive
longing for someone to hold
I try to be a teacher
for your endless pursuit of knowledge
I try to be the bread winner
to put our children through college
yet through all thisI am still, one man
When you need to feel protected
I try to be your thug
yet I try to be loving
when you just need a hug
I'm your passionate prince
when you want to make love
I'm your prayer partner
when you need the Man above
I work hard to be everything
you could ever want and need
your epitome of strength
the father of your seed
Understand this one thing
one thing about me...
I am only one man
and that's all I can be.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Sitting on a camel observing the world...
I took this weekend to observe some of the behaviors of people and some of the ironies of life. I was able to draw some conclusions about some things and figure a few things out about my life. I also made some serious (and humorous) conclusions about life. Here’s some of the things I’ve learned...
1) A lot of people that claim to be real are followers - I’m not hating you for it. Sometimes you just want to fit in so bad that you lose who you really are. Sometimes it’s just the journey that you take in life. But one day you will have to look in the mirror and face yourself for who you really are.
1) A lot of people that claim to be real are followers - I’m not hating you for it. Sometimes you just want to fit in so bad that you lose who you really are. Sometimes it’s just the journey that you take in life. But one day you will have to look in the mirror and face yourself for who you really are.
2) Marriages are really for the birds these days - Don’t get me wrong, I see a lot of folks in relationships and I’m happy that you are happy, but are you REALLY happy? I have more friends who took the jump with someone believing that it was ‘the right thing to do’ and in the end have gone through or have to go through painful and trying divorces. Please examine your life before you make that step.
3) A lot of women want to be in relationships just for the sake of companionship - I see more women that talk about their relationships. The thing that bothers me about it is they will say ‘my man/bf/whatever’ a thousand times in a convo. We get it, you are in a relationship. But what’s his name? Does he actually have an identity in your relationship other than ‘Your Man’?
4) Things on television are smaller than they appear sometimes - Sitting courtside at the Cavs game gave me a shocking realization... A lot of NBA players aren’t really that tall. However, LeBron has to be taller than 6'8"... That cat is HUGE...
5) There are a lot of guys who are only in relationships for the steady POON - Yeah I said it! I think if they had a chick that would give it up without having to have a title attached, you probably wouldn’t see many guys in relationships at all.
6) Guys really do say some stupid shit - Sorry again fellas, but you know that you speak without thinking sometimes. "I trust you but I don’t trust other guys..."
7) Grandparents at some point got switched with some strange, nice life form - Ok so at some point, my parents got swapped with these watered down extra nice people that don’t whoop kids anymore. I wish I could have gotten away with jumping on the couch when I was a kid. Sheesh...
8) Sometimes friends don’t really understand, and you have to forgive them for that - Self explanatory
9) Outside influences can destroy a good thing if the inside doesn’t know how to handle it - Sometimes people allow the words and actions of the outside world to affect how they look at their internal world. At some point, we have to learn what things don’t really apply to our internal lives and leave that in the external world.
10) Sitting on my camel in the desert, I never found my oasis... Just a bunch of mirages - Things aren’t always what they appear. Sometimes the thing that looks like a fresh spring meadow in the distance only ends up being a sand dune when you get close to it. Don’t allow your mind to be clouded with other thoughts and see the world for what it really is.
These are just a few of my observations for the weekend. I’ll post more periodically as I continue to sit on my camel... ::peace::
Thursday, March 12, 2009
What Things I'm Tired of Hearing Women Say
Ok so lately, I’ve been expanding my horizons in the e-world (i.e. started a blog page, joined Twitter, etc.) and in some cases it has been an enjoyable experience. I’ve met a lot of interesting people and have gotten introduced to some new music and great views on the world.. I love hearing people’s opinions about life, relationships, music, sex and the like. However, I have noticed a lot of bitter men and women on some of these sites, but mostly women. I’ve read a few notes that women have posted and some of them are downright appalling, while others are so true. A couple of my favorite women in the world put together a list of things they are tired of hearing ‘men’(for the lack of a better term) say. Here is my rebuttal in the form of things I’m tired of hearing women say. Ready... Go...
"Niggas ain’t shit" - True statement and it’s cute to say when you are in high school and the first couple years of college, but once you’re pushing 30 and you are still talking that same yin yang, it’s time to get your life in order. You only get back what you put out.
"I’m a model" - No boo boo, you are not a model. You are a chick taking pictures in the mirror of your bathroom. I don’t see a comp card. Where’s your portfolio? Are you on modelmayhem? If not, miss me with all that.
"I’m independent" - BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHA... Excuse me for laughing in your face but last time I checked, the only way you are really independent is if you own your own (business, house, car, etc.). Maybe you are talking about your political affiliation? Whole ‘nother story.
"Women are smarter than men cuz we are more slick with ours" - Hmmm... you would think your smart ass would have a man that you didn’t need to creep on. If you were so damn smart, then how about devising a plan to make your man be better in bed, like , oh I don’t know, TELLING HIM WHAT YOU LIKE. And they say men are the dumb ones...
"Women are smarter than men... PERIOD" - did I miss this memo because last time I checked, you were still depending on that man to provide something for you. Something that since you are so smart you could probably do for yourself. Lazy mf’ers...
"I got a man but he ain’t acting right" - So if he’s not acting right, why is he still your man? Stop trying to have your cake and eat it too...
"I want a boyfriend" - Well when you’re through playing on the playground, go find yourself a man. Grown ass kid...
"You look like you can eat a good pussy" - Yup, I sure can. But not yours... Miss me with that.
"I’m a Diva" - Hmmm... Are you one now because Beyonce claims she’s one? Did you know that just last year, Beyonce claimed that she wasn’t a diva? You might want to catch yourself while you’re following these walking contradictions around.
And that’s not it ladies. You have some other things you need to get right in your world.
Stop lying to this guys about their dicks - Every man out here does not have the big dick or can even hit the spot properly. Stop building these cats’ egos up because it’s not helping yours or anyone else’s cause.
Stop saying I don’t need a man one second then complaining about how you don’t have a boyfriend the next - Are you bipolar? You’re not making any sense.
Stop listening to your single girlfriend about your relationship - She’s single for a reason. You’re in a relationship for a reason.
Stop trying to hook us up with your ugly friend - If she’s cute to you however when you go out, she never gets any attention, this means you probably have your friendship goggles on.
I’m done for now but there will be a part two to this.
"Niggas ain’t shit" - True statement and it’s cute to say when you are in high school and the first couple years of college, but once you’re pushing 30 and you are still talking that same yin yang, it’s time to get your life in order. You only get back what you put out.
"I’m a model" - No boo boo, you are not a model. You are a chick taking pictures in the mirror of your bathroom. I don’t see a comp card. Where’s your portfolio? Are you on modelmayhem? If not, miss me with all that.
"I’m independent" - BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHA... Excuse me for laughing in your face but last time I checked, the only way you are really independent is if you own your own (business, house, car, etc.). Maybe you are talking about your political affiliation? Whole ‘nother story.
"Women are smarter than men cuz we are more slick with ours" - Hmmm... you would think your smart ass would have a man that you didn’t need to creep on. If you were so damn smart, then how about devising a plan to make your man be better in bed, like , oh I don’t know, TELLING HIM WHAT YOU LIKE. And they say men are the dumb ones...
"Women are smarter than men... PERIOD" - did I miss this memo because last time I checked, you were still depending on that man to provide something for you. Something that since you are so smart you could probably do for yourself. Lazy mf’ers...
"I got a man but he ain’t acting right" - So if he’s not acting right, why is he still your man? Stop trying to have your cake and eat it too...
"I want a boyfriend" - Well when you’re through playing on the playground, go find yourself a man. Grown ass kid...
"You look like you can eat a good pussy" - Yup, I sure can. But not yours... Miss me with that.
"I’m a Diva" - Hmmm... Are you one now because Beyonce claims she’s one? Did you know that just last year, Beyonce claimed that she wasn’t a diva? You might want to catch yourself while you’re following these walking contradictions around.
And that’s not it ladies. You have some other things you need to get right in your world.
Stop lying to this guys about their dicks - Every man out here does not have the big dick or can even hit the spot properly. Stop building these cats’ egos up because it’s not helping yours or anyone else’s cause.
Stop saying I don’t need a man one second then complaining about how you don’t have a boyfriend the next - Are you bipolar? You’re not making any sense.
Stop listening to your single girlfriend about your relationship - She’s single for a reason. You’re in a relationship for a reason.
Stop trying to hook us up with your ugly friend - If she’s cute to you however when you go out, she never gets any attention, this means you probably have your friendship goggles on.
I’m done for now but there will be a part two to this.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Check This Out... Music Edition...
Every now and then, I'm going to spotlight an album or a mixtape that I like and would like for you to take a listen to. This mixtape that I'm spotlighting today is from DJ K-Nyce of the Varsity Squad. My first venture into the realm of K-Nyce was at a local party at the B-Side (if you're from Cleveland and you don't know about it, GET FAMILIAR). This was the first club event that I had gone to in awhile because I got tired of hearing the same old club music over and over. I mean seriously, I am so tired of hearing Soulja Boy it is ridiculous. To my surprise, K-Nyce played a very eclectic set, integrating music from the 70's, 80's, 90's and some of today's best. Since then, I must admit, whenever I hear he's dj-ing a set, I'm trying my hardest to be in the building. So of course when I heard he was releasing a mixtape, I was excited as hell to hear it, and trust me, it didn't disappoint. Varsity Squad Radio Vol. 1 is a great blend of today's big names in hip-hop with some of the up and coming artists that will make noise in the next couple years. The mixtape features songs from well known artists like Lil' Wayne, Q-Tip, Busta Rhymes, Jamie Foxx, Rick Ross and a list of others, as well as newcomers like KiD CuDi, Wale, Nawledge & Drake. Check the link below to download Varsity Squad Radio Vol. 1. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
I'm Working Two Jobs. What Are You Doing?
So I was having a chat with my coworker over lunch yesterday when she brought up a client that we picked up last year. She mentioned to me how this young lady has been working two jobs for the last few years to maintain her household. I see no problem with this, however, in the last two years, her husband managed to make just over $500! Yes, you read right, FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS!!! So I had to ask what exactly is he doing around the house all day if he is not able to go out and get a job. She didn’t have an answer for me. So this got me to thinking, how many people have really learned to maintain a household if in fact they lose their jobs, especially men.
Many of the young men I know, while knowing how to do prescribed man duties around the house (i.e. cutting the grass, painting and other miscellaneous minor repairs and maintenance), have no idea how to handle other household duties. You’d be surprised how many guys have no clue how to wash their own clothes. It’s rather depressing. I know that if it were me working two jobs and I had a mate living at home, I would have certain expectations of things that should be taken care of, especially if she wasn’t out looking for a job every moment that she could. There’s no way, if I was the one home, that I could even imagine myself not having the house cleaned and dinner ready for my wife, because I understand what it takes to be the provider for the family and to expect someone to hold down two jobs and still come home and fix dinner and wash my clothes while I sit home and do nothing, in itself, is absurd.
So chime in and tell me what you think about this situation. What would you be willing to do if you were the one without the job? What would your expectations be of your mate if your were the one providing for your household?
Many of the young men I know, while knowing how to do prescribed man duties around the house (i.e. cutting the grass, painting and other miscellaneous minor repairs and maintenance), have no idea how to handle other household duties. You’d be surprised how many guys have no clue how to wash their own clothes. It’s rather depressing. I know that if it were me working two jobs and I had a mate living at home, I would have certain expectations of things that should be taken care of, especially if she wasn’t out looking for a job every moment that she could. There’s no way, if I was the one home, that I could even imagine myself not having the house cleaned and dinner ready for my wife, because I understand what it takes to be the provider for the family and to expect someone to hold down two jobs and still come home and fix dinner and wash my clothes while I sit home and do nothing, in itself, is absurd.
So chime in and tell me what you think about this situation. What would you be willing to do if you were the one without the job? What would your expectations be of your mate if your were the one providing for your household?
Monday, March 2, 2009
Master Teacher... (Inspired by Erykah Badu)
Why is it that we as black men believe standing on the corner hustlin’ is cooler than going to the library to read and get educated. Why do we feel that having sex with many women makes us more of a man than having that one woman, building her up and nurturing her? Why don’t we raise our young boys to be men rather than leaving a woman to be mommy and daddy? Why do we recognize each other as niggas rather than strong , black brothers?
When do we as a people recognize the pitfalls that we continuously set for ourselves? I pray for all my black brothers, but especially our young generations, because, like it or not, we are lost. So many of us now have no idea how to be men. Everyone wants to be grown but many of these so called men aren’t men at all. They are scared little boys whom react to situations and adversity as they believe a man should. Most of us have no idea how to truly survive a struggle and bring ourselves out of it, so we continue the same cycle over and over. We make excuses for our shortcomings instead of admitting what our faults are and finding a way to fix them. Why do we follow trends instead of the words of our elders? Life is not about being the coolest nigga on the block, because the world is larger than your block. Life is what you make of it. Be a leader, an example for your children. Work harder, be a REAL MAN, not a boy pretending to be a man. Be a husband, not a babydaddy or a player, it gets old. Build our black women up instead of breaking them down. Be informed of the world around you, not just the gossip on the block. Read, write and express your true feeling of the world. These are the principles that afford you all the opportunities that you have been afforded in the world thus far.
Understand this, I don’t knock your hustle, I just understand that we as blacks make up a small percentage of America, but almost half of the prison population is black. 65 percent of black women with children are single mothers and the percentage of them that are under 21 is much higher. We have to educated each other and teach our children. We as black men need to be better. Go to school. Don’t just make life about basketball and screwing. We have to be better. Nurture our child, help guide them to be the next great leaders of our nation. Ask for help and don’t let your pride get in the way. Learn from your elders, they’ve seen so many things that you have yet to encounter.
When do we as a people recognize the pitfalls that we continuously set for ourselves? I pray for all my black brothers, but especially our young generations, because, like it or not, we are lost. So many of us now have no idea how to be men. Everyone wants to be grown but many of these so called men aren’t men at all. They are scared little boys whom react to situations and adversity as they believe a man should. Most of us have no idea how to truly survive a struggle and bring ourselves out of it, so we continue the same cycle over and over. We make excuses for our shortcomings instead of admitting what our faults are and finding a way to fix them. Why do we follow trends instead of the words of our elders? Life is not about being the coolest nigga on the block, because the world is larger than your block. Life is what you make of it. Be a leader, an example for your children. Work harder, be a REAL MAN, not a boy pretending to be a man. Be a husband, not a babydaddy or a player, it gets old. Build our black women up instead of breaking them down. Be informed of the world around you, not just the gossip on the block. Read, write and express your true feeling of the world. These are the principles that afford you all the opportunities that you have been afforded in the world thus far.
Understand this, I don’t knock your hustle, I just understand that we as blacks make up a small percentage of America, but almost half of the prison population is black. 65 percent of black women with children are single mothers and the percentage of them that are under 21 is much higher. We have to educated each other and teach our children. We as black men need to be better. Go to school. Don’t just make life about basketball and screwing. We have to be better. Nurture our child, help guide them to be the next great leaders of our nation. Ask for help and don’t let your pride get in the way. Learn from your elders, they’ve seen so many things that you have yet to encounter.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
