Hello Everyone:

Currently our Federal government based in Washington, D.C. is trying to negotiate a budget compromise that will guarantee its continued operation for the remainder of the fiscal year. The clock is ticking and both parties controlling Congress have apparent differences regarding how key spending cuts should be allocated. This isn't the first time such an impasse like this has occurred and it won't be the last. Usually the party which has the least "humanistic" approach (Republican) will live to regret it in the upcoming national elections in 2012. Too many people who belong to this party don't seem to be the “sharpest knives in the drawer” regarding how the vast majority of people will perceive their actions. Economically, too many people are still reeling from the global recession that began around 2008 and any actions that will “throw a monkey wrench” into the U.S. economy's recovery efforts won't be taken graciously. As we say in the “hood”, 2012 as of today is “on and popping” campaign wise. At the rate, our Federal government is going, a repeat of the 2008 elections wouldn't surprise me at all. When people are hurting economically, they will send a very clear mandate to initiate change for the better. Patience is a virtue and I'm patiently awaiting November 2012 because nothing gives me more pleasure than seeing the Republican party losing in major national elections. Lately oppressed people have been revolting against their “insensitive”, “unresponsive” governments all over the world and now certainly isn't the time to be angering the “oppressed masses” in the United States just to make an “ideological” point.

Democracy is defined according to Webster's Dictionary as “government in which the “POWER” is vested in ALL THE PEOPLE" which reinforces every citizen's “equality of rights”. The beauty of the democratic process is that all people in this country have a right to voice their opinions whether we all agree or not and to “officially weigh in” via the ballot box concerning how our government shall function in accordance to the amendments ratified within our U.S. Constitution and individual State Constitutions. Just because one political party may have won a majority of the popular vote in an election, it doesn't lessen or mitigate the rights of the losing minority. In order for a democratic based government to effectively function, compromises have to made on a regular basis regardless of the ideological differences of the opposing parties. Of course, there are “special interest” or “lobbyist” groups who represent various industries that are constantly attempting to “hijack” the democratic process to suit their own very “self absorbed” financial interests. However, in the end, all the elected officials these lobbyists have “bought and paid for” can only remain in public office by “the will of the people” they represent which isn't always guaranteed. Modern day elected officials simply don't have the luxury to completely ignore the masses who didn't vote for them. To do so is political “suicide” because enough defectors from their established political base may be enough to cost them an election. In my opinion, “not voting” is just as detrimental as a “no” vote. It only strengthens the opposition's position.

The democratic process in the United States isn't without its challenges but I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. This process has been so beneficial to the development of our country because it enables the infusion of “fresh” ideas and perspectives within our cherished societal institutions. Too many people “live and breathe” based upon their somewhat "narrow" interpretation of “tradition”. Not all traditional practices are worthwhile due to the evolution of mankind’s empirical understanding. Contrary to what many believe, “change” is the only constant in life. Nothing remains the same. The pendulum of existence swings both ways and will always seek “balance” when any situation becomes “out of sync” with the universal Laws of Karma. Courage, compassion and faith have always been tremendous equalizers that have guided our wonderful nation in the most uncertain of times. Yes, I still believe! Don't you?

May Peace Be With All of You,

Sistah Selah

Hello Everyone!

For starters, I want to thank the people who have taken the time to leave comments on my blog entries. I do read all of them and respond to some of them. I don't respond to all of them because although I'm well educated, I'm not an “expert” on everything and nor do I wish to be perceived as one. Furthermore, I'm also attending graduate school which requires quite a bit of focus and time in order to succeed. Believe me, if I had the time, I would update my blog more often; however, I do have other commitments that require my constant attention.

The following comment was posted on my blog: Will there be a doomsday in 2012?

I responded as follows:

If that's what you care to believe, but I wouldn't bank on it! I believe the fate of mankind isn't written in stone and everyday gives us a new opportunity to set things right. What we do on an individual level is just as important as what's happening on a global scale. Individually we can and do make a difference.

Like everyone else, I'm very concerned about the recent international events and their global impact upon the entire world. The radiation that's leaking into the ocean from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan really concerns me. I enjoy eating seafood and the impact upon fragile underwater ecosystems may be devastating. Certain species of birds primarily eat fish to survive. Seafood is also used as a primary ingredient in some brands of pet food. Will I still be able to use “sea salt” to season my food? It's become a popular lower sodium alternative in some brands of canned soup. I also occasionally add it to my bath and it's an additive in some spa products along with “sea weed”. I also use “Irish moss” to combat nasty colds which is a “red algae” that grows along the coasts of Europe and North America. Like many people, I take “fish oil” tablets on a daily basis to improve the health of my circulatory system. Will I have to stop taking them?

What will the impact be upon marine life? There are “endangered” marine species and how will this disaster impact them? Remember last year's BP oil disaster. I was just as nervous about that one and I have to wonder how much our oceans can withstand before we kill them altogether. I live in the USA on the west coast and enjoy going to the beach. Will it be “safe” for me to “wade in the water”? The current unrest in the Middle East is pushing the price of oil “through the roof”. The current price is $108.10 per barrel. Not only does this have a direct impact upon what we pay for gasoline to fuel our cars but the price of products that use significant amounts of petrochemicals will rise as well.

In my opinion, the hand writing is on the wall! Modern society is entirely too dependent upon products and forms of energy that have the potential of destroying large ecosystems which we, humans, and other forms of life on this planet depend upon for our survival. Even with all of our modern capabilities to monitor changes in our environment, we lack the ability to quickly restore invaluable ecosystems once they are destroyed, if they can be saved, at all. We, as consumers, should petition our government leaders to make a concerted effort to implement more “ecologically friendly” forms of energy. The survival of our planet may depend upon our “individual” efforts to make our wishes known. Our planet's ability to “heal” itself isn't “unlimited” and we're pushing it to the brink.

May Peace Be With All of You,

Sistah Selah

Now, as a man, I recount that. When I deal with negative things in this life, in this business, I "rise above it". I stay on higher ground. I don't come down from the safety of a higher place to deal with the foolishness or danger of what is beneath me. I tell you it works. It frees your soul to be free. If you haven't tried it you should. It will mess your enemies up. If I can leave you with anything, I will leave you with this--in this life there will be a lot of things thrown at you. Take them as they come. Some things you fight, but most you don't. Rise above it!  Nothing can hurt you when you stay in the high place. It's safe there. And don't worry about your enemies. The 23rd Psalm says, "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies", which means, in order for you to eat, then your enemies have to be present! (smile)

Hello Everyone:

It's been quite some time since I've updated this blog due to a multitude of reasons.  To be perfectly frank, I've been considering starting a brand new blog but I haven't made a final decision on this issue.  However, I've been prompted by an issue that deserves to be addressed with some "intelligence" and "objectivity".

It never fails; every time any news about African Americans is posted on the Internet the amount of derogatory feedback is legion.  For the most part, we African Americans aren't surprised by this sort of "overt" negativity.  It simply goes with the territory, so to speak, because many very "racist" and "hateful" people who deeply resent "people of color" for whatever reason, never miss an opportunity to anonymously sit behind their computers and mindlessly bash us because they can't be readily identified.  Thankfully, the GOD I worship, "SITS HIGH, AND LOOKS LOW" and when people choose to put "hateful", "destructive" intentions into motion, THEY WILL ALWAYS COME BACK TO HAUNT THEM AND THAT'S A "NATURAL" FACT!!!

Historically, the achievements of African Americans have always been under represented within American society which is what has prompted the recognition of "Black History" month.  During the month of February, a concerted effort is made to focus public awareness upon the struggles and accomplishments of African Americans.  For the most part, the significant accomplishments of "Non-Caucasians" have been consistently overlooked within the curriculum of public schools.  Community efforts such as these help combat the institutionalized racism that is well embedded within so many public and private institutions that result in these blatant oversights.

On March 6, 2011, The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, known as the NAACP, held its 42nd Annual Image Award ceremony.  From its inception on February 12, 1909, this internationally renown organization has been at the forefront of the struggle against inequality that has adversely impacted "people of color" within the United States.  Like so many well established institutions, it has had its "ups and downs" but for the most part, it has significantly contributed to the judicial, legislative and cultural victories that have advanced equality in America.  Make no mistake; these significant victories have paved the way to eradicate "overt" discrimination against anybody based upon age, race, sex, religion, national origin as well as sexual orientation.  This well respected organization provides an excellent annual forum to acknowledge the accomplishments of African Americans which aren't always readily appreciated within the larger scope of American society.

What I find "unacceptable" is the constant criticism of African Americans who openly voice their discontent about being overlooked when the nominations of more entertainment industry specific awards are compiled such as the Oscars, Golden Globes and Emmy awards.  Mind you, these are usually the same "ASS BACKWARD" Neanderthals who routinely criticize "community specific" award ceremonies such as the BET and NAACP Image Awards.  They criticize them as being vehicles of "reverse discrimination" but what is the justification for the complete "shut out" of African Americans regarding the Oscar nominations that have occurred this year??? 

A simple Internet search would yield numerous national, international and ethnic based organizations that honor the accomplishments of Australian, British, Chinese, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Latino and Spanish people, just to name a few.  Nobody criticizes these "national" or "ethnic" specific awards because there is "NOTHING MORALLY WRONG" with a community of individuals who come together on a regular basis to honor the accomplishments of their members.  Even those who work in the pornographic movie industry annually honor the accomplishments of their members.  Considering the depths of their “depravity”, does anyone complain???  At least organizations that honor the accomplishments of African Americans primarily promote those individuals who are making significant strides in their chosen fields in a very positive sense.  For those individuals who can't assimilate into a more “global” and “multi-cultural” world landscape THAT'S STRICTLY “YOUR” PROBLEM!  GET OVER IT!  People of color aren't going to "DISAPPEAR" simply because you would rather not acknowledge our "RELEVANCE''.  Diversity makes the world a much more interesting place and if you have chosen to reject the statistical realities of current and future population trends, the world will continue to "ROCK AND ROLL" WITHOUT YOU!  It existed long before you were born and will continue to do so regardless of how much you have chosen to absorb yourself in “hate” and “bigotry”.  YOU ARE YOUR “OWN” WORST ENEMY!!!

May God Bless You and Yours,

Sistah Selah  

Hello Everyone:

It’s been several months since I’ve updated my blog.  Truthfully, I’ve been somewhat preoccupied with other matters and now, I have more time.

I’ve been monitoring some of the reports concerning this catastrophe and as a former resident of Louisiana I’m very concerned about the long-term impact it will have on its’ future and that of the entire world.   Preliminary investigations have been made and a high level government official has resigned but it has been well over a month and crude oil is still gushing into the Gulf of Mexico which poses a significant environmental threat to all of us.    You don’t have to a doctorate degree in the sciences to understand that realistically the world has only “one” ocean and if enough chemical pollutants are pumped into it, it will die.

From a legal and ethical standpoint, I understand the Obama Administration’s frustration because this is a “man-made” disaster – not a natural one.  In all fairness, the parties who created this mess should “clean it up” and “reasonably compensate” those individuals whose livelihoods and way of life have been directly impacted by their negligence.  I’m very sympathetic with the desire of BP executives to privately manage the spill containment and clean up efforts.  However, if this was only a leaking oil tanker with a finite amount of oil; I’m sure they would be able to handle it but we’re talking about an enormous amount of oil gushing out of the ocean floor which may be well beyond their capabilities to contain.

Considering the magnitude of what’s at stake, BP should formally ask the U.S. government and possibly NATO for assistance with the understanding that government involvement does not “lessen” or “terminate” their financial responsibility in this disaster.  Time is not on our side and BP should be willing to acknowledge this reality.  The future of our world’s precious oceans is at stake.  The United States' federal government lacks the solid expertise to deal with this ecological nightmare on its’ own; however, a combined effort composed of BP and governmental logistical support may be exactly what’s needed to quickly contain this spill and minimize the ecological damage to our planet.   

I sincerely pray that an effective solution will be implemented as soon as possible.  If BP can successfully deploy it by themselves, that would be wonderful; however, if this is not the case, please ask for assistance.  There’s just too much at stake.

May Peace Be With All of You,

Sistah Selah

Hello Everyone:

May all of you have a most blessed week!

This weekend, I went to see Denzel Washington’s new movie, The Book of Eli.  This movie is an action adventure that is as entertaining as it is spiritual.  I was glued to my seat from the beginning to the end.  Mr. Washington is one of the best actors in the business and he did not fail to deliver a stellar performance along with his first rate cast members.  I wish him continued success in his future endeavors. 

When I reviewed some of the comments on the Internet, I was surprised to discover that some individuals had an issue with the version of the Bible that was used in the movie.  I’m a Roman Catholic who was raised as a Baptist and I’m familiar with various versions of the Bible; however, the message is essentially the same whether you’re Baptist, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Methodist, Roman Catholic or any other Christian denomination.  We believe in and acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.  His ministry and teachings were “real” 2,000 years ago, are “real” today, and will be “real” tomorrow.  The path each Christian chooses to worship him and his Father in Heaven is an individual choice, not a preordained societal mandate.  As far as I know, no one denomination has “cornered the market” on this truth.  Jesus chose to conduct his ministry with caring, truth and simplicity.  Too often, mankind has chosen to convolute and misrepresent his legacy based upon our own worldly agendas and prejudices which is an absolute shame!

The Book of Eli is more about the importance of being connected to a much more powerful intelligence than one’s self.  Faith, religion or a system of beliefs have always been utilized by civilizations to build and stabilize them by establishing a code of ethics that encourages the development of healthy societal institutions that foster a sense of community among its’ members.  This film does a wonderful job of illustrating this point without being “preachy”, “elitist” or “bigoted”.  It also challenges the movie audience to look at ourselves as we are and what we might become, if things were really to “go to hell in a hand basket”.  The distinction between civilization and anarchy is a very thin one and it’s only by the “Grace of GOD” through the development of spiritual values that societies evolve in a caring, humanitarian direction.  This movie’s message transcends our Western Judeo-Christian religious concepts and can also be appreciated by non Christians.  I really enjoy movies that make a lasting impression on my thoughts such as this one.  I only pray that Hollywood will produce more of them!  Be sure to enjoy your Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, tomorrow.

May Peace Be With All of You,