What's on my mind?: Recent Episodes
perry
Zuri wanted to know about her father's death. She knew Aunt Ebele would tell her the whole truth. Zuri was finally ready to hear the whole truth. Zuri and Aunt Ebele found themselves in a prolonged silence, punctuated only by the occasional cooing and laughter of Minkah. A spring storm had unexpectedly arisen, its ferocity evident in the unrelenting sway of the trees under the onslaught of wind and rain, visible through the window.
Breaking the silence, Zuri turned to Aunt Ebele, "May I pose a question?" she asked. Aunt Ebele, with her characteristic grace, responded, "Of course, my dear. Feel free to ask anything."
Zuri, struggling to articulate her thoughts, finally managed to ask, "What transpired with my father?" The fate of Ike had always been a convoluted topic within the family. Zuri had scant knowledge about her father's demise.
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Zuri prepared herself to disclose a profound truth to Aunt Ebele: Minkah possessed the third eye.
Zuri's emotions welled up slowly, a solitary tear tracing its path down her cheek. Aunt Ebele cradled Minkah in one arm, drawing closer to Zuri. She clasped Zuri's hand gently and encouraged her, saying, "Speak your truth, child."
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Zuri’s burden of concern was already substantial. Her cherished Aunt Ebele introduced an additional element: it’s us.
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Zuri was determined to investigate every possible avenue to uncover which faction of her family had placed a target on her child’s back. Regardless of the outcome, she was resolute in her decision to raise Minkah, instilling in him a blend of motherly wisdom, common sense, and trust. She was acutely aware that the issue of trust would be a challenging one to address.
She also recognized that growing up in Mississippi would pose its unique set of difficulties for her son. Her burdens were already substantial, with the assassination of her father Ike, and prominent leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Medgar Evers weighing heavily on her mind. The safety of her son was an additional concern that she now had to bear.
In the midst of these challenges, she found solace in prayer, hoping that Aunt Ebele would provide the guidance she so desperately sought.
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Upon the revelation that her son possessed the third eye, Zuri’s initial joy gave way to apprehension. Instead of savoring the moment, she found herself consumed by thoughts of the potential envy and animosity her son might encounter. Moreover, she feared that his unique gift could make him a target for violence at the hands of white supremacists. The question lingered: which side of the family had unwittingly bestowed this mysterious and perilous curse upon her child?
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Zuri dutifully provided breakfast for her husband, while Minkah was nourished by his mother’s milk. Unbeknownst to her, Zuri’s mother, an early morning visitor, would inadvertently complete the formula.
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Even during the journey home, Zuri harbored skepticism towards Mosi’s narrative. She ventured to broach the subject with Big J, as she felt it was essential to understand his perspective on the matter.
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Having imparted a significant revelation to his family, Mosi was now prepared to field any questions that might arise. He stood ready, open to discussion and further inquiry
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One week has passed since the tragic loss of the esteemed civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In the wake of this profound event, he has decided to bring to light the truth about Minkah. This disclosure, he believes, is of significant importance and he is prepared to share it with everyone. The details surrounding Minkah have been shrouded in mystery, and he feels that now is the appropriate time to reveal them. He hopes that this revelation will provide clarity and foster understanding among all.
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Mosi is inclined to disclose the information; however, the appropriate time for such revelation has not yet arrived.
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The argument that Trump's lawyer made for why the former president has immunity reminded me of a child caught in a lie by an adult, but the child is trying to explain his way out of it. I am glad I missed most of it because the part I heard was unconvincing and dangerous. How can he claim that impeachment was the only appropriate remedy when he opposed his impeachment by saying he could only be held accountable for criminal acts after leaving office?
This is a clear example of contradictory rhetoric. I am deeply concerned that many of my fellow citizens are being deceived by this. I hope that they will soon realize the truth and act accordingly. One might assume that only uneducated people are susceptible to the former president's deception. But that is not the case. Many well-educated people have abandoned their rationality and prioritized a false narrative over what they know is right.
It is undeniable that the founders, despite their shortcomings, were opposed to the concept of a monarchy. The notion of complete immunity would have been considered absurd to them.
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We must all understand that we rule...nothing. Have you ever experienced an epiphany? A moment when you're engrossed in profound contemplation, and suddenly, a metaphorical light bulb illuminates. Each day, I pose the question, What's on my mind today?' This practice serves as a method of self-reflection, a means of directing my focus toward examining an issue and understanding the factors that influence its trajectory.
Through this introspection, I've come to realize that the most significant events transpire within the confines of our minds. However, the challenge lies in the common misconception that the majority of us exercise complete control over our thoughts. While there is a degree of truth that a small amount of us may be able to do this, the reality is that a majority of us willingly surrender a portion of our cognitive control to external influences. We often find ourselves swayed by factors such as wealth, religion, carnal desires, substances, and other sources of pleasure.
It is anticipated that a significant number of individuals might respond with a denial, asserting, "No, not me." However, I would like to assure you that this is a misconception. Irrespective of one's position or status, a universal willingness exists to relinquish a degree of control to attain perceived desires. Despite the notion that being subservient may be unappealing to many, the reality is that we have all experienced it to some extent and continue to do so. This is an undeniable truth of our existence.
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The task of people trying to revise historical events, such as the Jan 6th event, is increasingly challenging and verging on the impossible. As demonstrated by Katt Williams, when evidence exists, it will inevitably be discovered. Therefore, any attempts by the former president or his minions to reinterpret the events of January 6th, are destined to fail. There's a well-known adage about online content: "The internet is forever."
Attempts to portray violent incidents as peaceful or to label the perpetrators as victims are futile. Encouraging individuals to disregard their own perceptions in favor of a prescribed narrative is not only ineffective but also dismissive of their cognitive abilities. It's tantamount to asking people to distrust their own senses, which is an unrealistic expectation. The truth has a way of revealing itself, regardless of attempts to obscure it.
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The U.S. Constitution, in its original form, imposed certain restrictions on individual actions. For example, Article II, Section 1, Clause 5 of the Constitution stipulates the prerequisites for presidential candidacy:
Natural Born Citizen: The candidate must be a U.S. citizen by birth, not through naturalization at a later stage. This requirement is fulfilled by any individual born within the United States or to U.S. citizen parents abroad.
Age: The candidate must be at least 35 years old on Inauguration Day (January 20th) following the election.
Residency The candidate must have resided in the United States for at least 14 years prior to taking office.
The framers of the U.S. Constitution also provided a mechanism for the government and the people to amend the Constitution as needed. This adaptability has led many to refer to the Constitution as a "living document". The efficacy of this mechanism was demonstrated with the ratification of the 11th amendment in 1795 and the 12th amendment in 1804, underscoring the Constitution's capacity for modernization.
Following the Civil War, the U.S. government recognized the need to address certain issues within the Constitution, leading to the addition of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, collectively known as the Reconstruction Amendments. These amendments introduced changes to broaden the scope of the Constitution, but also established additional eligibility criteria for holding office, akin to earlier stipulations. Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, also known as the Disqualification Clause, outlines the conditions under which an individual is deemed ineligible to hold public office in the United States. The clause states:
"No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any state legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any state, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.
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As citizens of the United States, we may feel as though we are encountering an individual like Trump for the first time, but this is not the case. Trump embodies the archetype of the indulged child who believes he should always be prioritized. He struggles to comprehend how someone outside his social stratum could perform equally well or surpass him. However, we deceive ourselves by considering this as a novel phenomenon. It isn't. Trump is a direct product of privilege. He exemplifies the outcome when a child is never denied. His belief that wealth can procure anything isn't entirely unfounded; this approach has seemingly served him well throughout his life. A majority of his followers are individuals of a similar disposition. His admiration for autocratic governance suggests a lack of understanding of the essence of American values. It implies that many of his zealous supporters may not fully comprehend the sentiment expressed in Lee Greenwood's song, "God Bless the U.S.A." Trump and his adherents are mistaken in their understanding. Merely uttering words does not constitute patriotism. True patriotism is embodied by advocating for the less privileged, marginalized, and minorities. However, to fulfill these requirements, one must prioritize the needs of others above one's interests, and prioritizing the needs of others above one's interests is a significant challenge for Trump and his supporters.
Trump perceived individuals such as Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Joe Biden as inferior to him for reasons that are ostensibly clear to him but not to the rest of us. He fails to understand why he isn't universally adored. The distinction between someone who has genuinely exerted effort and someone for whom the work has been done is evident. He stands as the foremost and most compelling argument against participation awards.
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They are after your money. That's the only thing I'm certain of. They will use any means and any words to get it. They are hypocritical and dishonest. They don't care about your well-being, your expenses, your savings, your lifestyle, your family, or even yourself. They will exploit you while you live, and they will pursue you after you die. They are greedy, and they will scare you into thinking that you need them to survive or to avoid suffering. They will make you hate or fear one group of people, while inviting those same people to this country to work for low wages.
The truth is, there are only two sides in this conflict: you and them. You outnumber them by far. But they have what you want and they know that many of you will do anything to get it. They also know that by giving some of you what they have, they achieve two things: one, they make you dependent on them, and if you disobey them, you are finished. I am astonished by how many of you are willing to accept that offer. They have power over you. Two, they take from you, and you will always end up giving whatever they gave to you, back to them.
The most important takeaway is that you always have more power than they do. Sure, they can buy off a few of you guys, but not all of you. Not enough of you.
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You have more potential to make an impact than you might think. If you want to capture people’s attention, follow the meaning of the saying, “the squeaky wheel gets the most grease.” This means that the more you complain or protest, the more likely you will get what you want. There are different ways of being loud. One of my favorites is the boycotting that is happening of businesses that support the Israeli government and, by proxy, the Israeli government killing innocent Palestinians.
If you want the American government to listen to you and to change its position on calling for a ceasefire, you have to challenge capitalism. In the world of geopolitics, it seems like it should be easy to say, stop killing innocent people. It seems like it should not require any courage to say that or for a government to refrain from doing that. But when you are dealing with weak men, what else can you expect?
The world is in a state of rage, and men are primarily responsible. Men often feel the need to prove themselves to others, even if it means resorting to violence or oppression. This is a toxic form of masculinity that harms everyone, including men themselves.
When I think about my childhood, I remember many times when my mother would calm my father down or say something that would make him reconsider his actions. I heard this statement today that women are less prone to aggression than men because they are more confident and secure in themselves. They are also more willing to defend themselves and their loved ones, more than any man would be willing to do. This is why a female animal is most fierce when her offspring, whether cubs, calves, or something else, are threatened. Sometimes, a female animal will protect her young from the father or another male of the same species.
Every person who has died or been captured in the conflict between Palestine and Israel shares one thing in common: they were born by a woman. I think women understand the value of life better than men, and they would not take a life carelessly. When I look at the current state of the world today, I often wish women were in charge.
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Donald Trump is a monstrous product of the white men who have failed to hold him accountable. The trouble he faces is a result of his actions and those of his associates. Joe Scarborough, the host of Morning Joe, has repeatedly stated on his show that people in New York were aware of his tendency to overstate.
Donald Trump is responsible for his own downfall and would have been wiser if he had followed Public Enemy's advice and not believed the hype he created and others created around him. He should have known himself better. White men have enabled him to lie about his wealth, they have allowed him to use the courts to force contractors to accept whatever he pays them. Donald Trump does not see how his fraud has hurt others because he does not consider himself as part of the other.
He fails to realize that he is no longer in a familiar environment. He can no longer rely on the sycophants who would ignore his misdeeds and let him do as he wishes. Donald Trump posed a question yesterday while addressing the cameras during one of the recesses at his civil trial, and it was similar to why New York is suing him now. It shows how unaware he was of the many people who have turned a blind eye and let him have his way.
It also shows he did not anticipate that the people who would hold him accountable would not resemble him. They would be black, for the most part, but even more egregious to Trump, they are women. Black women who are DAs and a judge, for the most part, are holding Donald Trump accountable. His disparaging remarks about the black judge and DAs show that he does not think that they have the authority to challenge him. And because he is dealing with the state or federal government, he cannot outspend them and use the justice system against them.
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The media portrayed Donald Trump as a successful and influential figure. They highlighted his wealth and lavish lifestyle, featuring his New York apartment on magazine covers and giving him cameo movie roles. They also helped him gain popularity and credibility as a political candidate, eventually leading him to the White House.
White people controlled the media outlets that gave him a platform, elevated him, and gave him a positive image. Republicans and, yes, even some Democrats overlooked his actions and enabled him to pursue his agenda.
White people concealed the truth and attempted to use other black people to challenge President Obama. People like Larry Elder, Candace Owens, and Herman Cain tried, but that did not work.
White-controlled media enabled Trump to question the validity of Obama's presidency. These white men who controlled the press or media implied, "Black people, you did not vote according to our wishes, so we will undermine your chosen leader." But then they accepted a white voice that volunteered, thinking that black people would trust a white voice telling them that Obama should not be president because he was not born here. But this strategy soon backfired. Trump's lies started to reveal themselves.
It began with President Barack Obama and the night of the News-Press correspondent dinner. I am sure Obama was fed up with Donald Trump and the media's obsession with the birther nonsense. So he jabbed back with jokes, but there is always a hint of truth in a good joke. People laughed because they knew that those jokes held some validity of truth.
Initially, Obama wasn't enough. Throughout Trump's first presidential campaign, he garnered free media. By the time his first campaign was over, he had amassed nearly $2 billion in free media coverage, approximately twice the total expenditure of the most expensive presidential campaigns in history. The New York Times, in 1989, provided a platform for Donald Trump to advocate for the death penalty for five individuals who were later found innocent. The United States Justice Department in 1973 filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump, his father, Fred, and Trump Management, seeking a settlement that would ensure a commitment from Trump and his father to refrain from discriminatory practices. After two years, the case was resolved when Trump attempted to countersue the Justice Department for $100 million, alleging false statements. However, the court dismissed these allegations. These incidents, on their own, would have significantly impacted any other candidate's electoral prospects. However, the predominantly white-owned media landscape conveyed to the white public that societal norms had shifted, giving Donald Trump a blank check to normalize expressions of racism and embracing dictators and authoritarian governments.
Then, a panel of representatives, led by Bennie Thompson, on the January 6th committee, transferred all their information to independent prosecutor Jack Smith. Black District Attorneys in Georgia, New York State, and New York City also undertook the task of holding Donald Trump accountable for his actions. They would challenge Donald Trump, while many white men and the white media would let him go unnoticed.
Suppose you are an individual of African descent, particularly from the southern United States. In that case, you have observed that racism has consistently permeated American society, often subtly and nuancedly.
Their plan would fail here, though. The strategy failed because it was based on a misunderstanding of the African-American community, especially African-American women. The proponents of the strategy, primarily white men, did not comprehend the historical and cultural context that shaped the views and values of their target audience. They did not realize that they were essen
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The House of Representatives has not passed a budget that would provide sufficient funding for important government programs such as education, healthcare, and environmental protection. Additionally, they have proposed cuts to these programs that could disproportionately affect the poor and middle class. These budget proposals are "self-inflicted" and could have a negative impact on the economy and the American people.
Former President Trump has interjected himself into the conversation, as is his usual practice, in an apparent attempt to slow down criminal proceedings against him. Many Republican sycophants in the United States Congress support him.
Former President Trump has called on congressional Republicans to let the government shut down in a dubious effort to undermine the criminal proceedings against him. Despite federal criminal proceedings being exempt from shutdowns, Trump's demand is unlikely to succeed, as Republicans in Congress are divided on whether to support a government shutdown. Even if a shutdown were to occur, it is unlikely to stop the criminal prosecutions against Trump, as federal criminal proceedings are exempt from shutdowns.
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Trump's demand is a sign of his desperation and his willingness to use the government as a weapon against his political opponents. It is also dangerous and could lead to a political crisis. It is important that Congress reject Trump's demands and continue to support the criminal investigations against him.
In the event of a government shutdown, some federal employees are deemed essential and required to work without pay. These employees perform jobs that are essential to the national security or health and safety of the American people. Examples include law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders, emergency medical technicians, air traffic controllers, border patrol agents, military personnel, prison guards, hospital staff, food safety inspectors, public health workers, and air pollution inspectors.
In addition to essential employees, some other federal employees may be required to work during a government shutdown, but they may be furloughed later and receive back pay. This includes employees who are working on essential projects, such as national defense or disaster relief.
The number of federal employees who are required to work without pay during a government shutdown varies depending on the severity of the shutdown and the priorities of the administration. In the 2018-2019 government shutdown, approximately 420,000 federal employees were required to work without pay.
Government shutdowns are disruptive and can have a negative impact on federal employees and their families. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the largest union representing federal employees, has called on Congress to pass legislation that would ensure that all federal employees are paid during a government shutdown.
The Constitution guarantees that members of Congress will be paid, even during a government shutdown. This is based on Article I, Section 6 and court interpretations. The reasons for this include Congress’s responsibility for budgeting and funding, and its essential role in government functions. However, there is a partisan divide on public opinion regarding this issue, with Democrats more supportive than Republicans of congressional pay during a shutdown.
Some people may face financial difficulties during a government shutdown. It might seem that this would be a significant incentive for Republicans to avoid a shutdown. However, some MAGA Republicans are willing to take extreme measures.
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While I have strong negative feelings towards the terms' cancel culture' and 'blank has been canceled,' it's important to note that when you cancel something, such as a subscription, a flight, or an appointment, you are responsible for the action. When someone claims to have been canceled or says that they are canceling me, it seems they are shifting the focus away from their actions and now assuming a victim mentality.
It is apparent in how they speak about it. They say things like, 'they are canceling me.' Again, this directs blame toward the accuser and away from the person who has done the wrong thing and instead of the person being held responsible or applying certain consequences for specific actions.
Harvey Weinstein was not canceled. He was held accountable for his actions. Similarly, the young lady in New York who called the police on a black man was not canceled. She was simply facing the consequences of her actions.
The term 'cancel' has a relationship with something that is being discontinued and is never to return When a TV show, a model of something, and death are cancelled; they all have the connotation of finality or the end of something. It seems that people who claim to be 'canceled' want others to perceive it as a form of social death and they will never be heard from again.
However, this is not the case. It is important to understand that there are consequences to our actions, and we must take responsibility for them. No one is trying to cancel you.
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What's up guys.
So, what's on my mind today?
Ageism
Okay guys, let's get into this.
It is evident, and perhaps many of you would concur, that discussions surrounding President Joe Biden’s age often indirectly target his Vice President, Kamala Harris. It is crucial to recognize that these critiques are often laden with undertones of misogyny and racism.
I understand your perspective. Change can indeed be challenging for many to embrace. However, in the unlikely scenario that President Biden is unable to fulfill his duties, Vice President Harris possesses a substantial background that equips her to execute the responsibilities of the office competently. It’s important to note that President Biden has exhibited no indications of cognitive decline. He has not experienced any momentary lapses that have affected Mitch McConnell, nor has he demonstrated the verbal confusion evident in a recent speech by the former president.
It can indeed be perplexing to comprehend why the media might focus on this particular issue, especially when contrasted with the numerous questionable cognitive moments of the former president, these range from his cryptic ‘cov-fe-fe’ tweet to his unanticipated late-night medical visit to Walter Reed Hospital and many more. It is worth reiterating that President Biden has not demonstrated any such behaviors.
there is a significant correlation between physical health and cognitive health. Engaging in physical activity has been linked to enhanced cognitive functioning and overall brain health throughout an individual’s lifespan. Moreover, higher levels of physical activity have been associated with improved cognitive functioning in older adults.
When examining the health habits of President Biden and former President Trump, it’s clear that their exercise routines differ significantly.
President Biden maintains a regular exercise regimen, typically working out five days a week for approximately 45 minutes per session. His routine encompasses a variety of activities, including weightlifting, cardio, and core exercises. Additionally, he is known to enjoy cycling and utilizes a Peloton bike for indoor workouts.
In contrast, former President Trump does not adhere to a regular exercise routine. While he is known for frequent golfing outings, his physical activity beyond this is relatively limited.
Regarding the comprehensiveness of their routines, President Biden’s regimen appears more holistic. His routine targets all major muscle groups and promotes cardiovascular health. While golfing can certainly be beneficial for health, it may not provide as comprehensive a workout as the variety of exercises included in President Biden’s routine.
It's important to note that many media outlets and individuals tend to focus on the most obvious or easily accessible information, rather than conducting a thorough investigation.
In my view, President Biden has demonstrated commendable performance in his duties, ranging from providing military funding for Ukraine to managing the economy. It’s unfortunate that his age often becomes the primary focus in media narratives. It’s crucial for media outlets to ensure comprehensive and balanced coverage of all aspects of a president’s tenure, rather than concentrating on singular aspects such as age.
It’s worth noting that there's only a three year difference between the former President, Trump, and President Biden.
Okay, guys.
That's what's been on my mind today.
You guys have a good day.
Peace out.
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It is essential to identify the root cause of a problem and then find ways to address that cause to solve said problem. The issue of undocumented immigrants has the bloody hands of capitalism all over it. People who migrate to the United States without authorization come here for various reasons. Some individuals seek economic opportunities, while others flee violence or persecution in their home countries. Additionally, some people immigrate to reunite with family members already residing in the United States.
How do they get here?
According to a report by the Pew Research Center, a significant number of undocumented migrants entered the United States legally through ports of entry such as airports or border crossing points. These individuals were subject to inspection by immigration officials but have overstayed their visas and are now undocumented in the United States. These people are overlooked because it's a problematic narrative for the media. There isn't an easy picture to draw attention to, like those at the southern border. However, most individuals attempting to enter the United States illegally are apprehended at the southwestern U.S. border and originate from Mexico or Central America. This is the picture that we often see. This narrative allows the media to participate in lazy journalism.
A fundamental question is how people become aware of these economic opportunities within the United States.
Well, that's easy.
Immigrants become aware of economic opportunities in the United States through various channels. Some common ways include:
Word of mouth: It's probably the most used means of spreading the word of economic opportunity in the United States. Friends, family members, or acquaintances who have migrated to the United States may share their experiences and inform others about the available economic prospects.
Online resources: Immigrants can access information about economic opportunities through online platforms, job portals, social media groups, and forums. These platforms provide insights into job openings, high-demand industries, and potential career paths.
Migration agencies and consultants: Some immigrants seek assistance from migration agencies or consultants who specialize in guiding immigration procedures, job prospects, and economic opportunities in the United States.
Community organizations: Immigrant community organizations often play a crucial role in disseminating information about economic opportunities. They may organize workshops, seminars, or networking events to connect immigrants with potential employers or provide guidance on starting businesses.
Educational institutions: Immigrants pursuing education in the United States can explore economic opportunities through career services offered by universities and colleges. These services provide resources for internships, job placements, and networking opportunities.
Given that we live in a capitalist financial system, it is essential to analyze whether employers can maximize their profits by hiring undocumented workers.
Of course, hiring undocumented workers can provide financial benefits for employers. According to an article on LawFirms.com, employers who employ unauthorized workers may experience lower labor costs and increased profit margins.
The Center for American Progress reported that California and Texas have historically had the largest undocumented workforce in the United States. California has approximately 1.4 million undocumented workers, while Texas has around 1.2 million.
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The prevailing inequality in this country is evident from the current situation. The privileged and the ordinary people are not on the same level. The wealthy have more advantages and opportunities than the rest of us. They also use their power and influence to create unfair barriers for those who challenge them. For instance, many contractors who worked for the former president, Donald Trump, were either underpaid or unpaid. They sued him, but he used delaying tactics, making the legal process more costly for the contractor.
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The main topic here is to explain why I support unions. There are many arguments in favor of unions, but the most important one is the power of the collective. This power enables workers to achieve better outcomes than they could individually. It also provides the basis for other benefits of unions, such as higher wages, better working conditions, and more influence on policies.
We live in a capitalist economic system where nothing is free. Everything has a price. Even in a socialist economic system, nothing would be free, but things would be more equitable. Regardless of the system, some effort is always required to obtain things.
A common strategy of many wealthy people is to discourage the use of collective action and to promote individualism among workers. However, this is a foolish and short-sighted approach. A lesson can be learned from the classic novel Gulliver’s Travels, where the protagonist, Gulliver, wakes up in the land of the Lilliputians, who are tiny people who had to work together against a giant foe.
Unions are like the Lilliputians, and they can usually only achieve what is best for the group by working together. Some people like to discourage others from participating in unions by highlighting the cons, but in this instance, the positive aspects of a union and collective bargaining far outweigh the negative.
Wealthy sports owners utilize collective bargaining to secure favorable outcomes for themselves. They understand the strength of speaking with a unified voice and negotiating as a group. This is a valuable lesson that workers can learn from the wealthy.
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Sports have the potential to reduce racial discrimination by cultivating a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and fair competition among diverse groups of people.
This statement appears to be the superficial remark everyone expects you to make. It is indeed a convenient way to avoid revealing the truth. Sports are driven by money and winning. Even if some owners harbor racist sentiments, their desire to maximize their profits and success overrides their racial biases when selecting black players for their teams.
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How would you react if I said that America's favorite game was a lesson in socialism? You might wonder if I will discuss the stadiums partly funded by taxpayers' money. Although that is one aspect of the NFL's socialist structure, it is not the main point of this discussion today. I am referring to the NFL's revenue-sharing system.
The NFL owners have two sources of income: national and local revenue. The local revenue, which consists of 60% of ticket sales, concessions, parking, and corporate sponsorships, is earned by the teams themselves and depends on each team's market size and performance. The owners get to keep this revenue for themselves. This is not a discussion about this source of income.
I am talking about the national revenue sharing. The National revenue comprises TV deals, merchandising, licensing, and 40% of ticket sales, negotiated by the league and distributed equally among the teams. The owners get to keep 53% of this national revenue, and the players get to keep 47% of this income.
The "why" is the most interesting part of this whole thing. Why is the national revenue shared equally among the owners? Easy, it's to foster competitive balance and financial stability among the teams. In other words, no one team can gain an advantage because they are in a bigger market and can bring in more money.
In 2019, the national revenue amounted to about $18 billion. Each football team received approximately $500 million. Another way that the NFL owners try to maintain fairness is the use of the salary cap. The salary cap is the maximum amount each owner can spend on the players' contracts. It is paid from the national revenue. You know, the revenue that is shared equally. The salary cap was about $224 million in 2019, which is slightly less than 47% of $500 million.
This resembles socialism to me. These multi-millionaires and multi-billionaires are concerned with fairness and they do not want teams with bigger markets to outperform them because of money. Socialists contend that capitalism inevitably results in unfair and exploitative concentrations of wealth and power in the hands of the few who prevail in free-market competition. This reminds me of the quote, “Do as I say, not as I do.” I suppose a socialist structure only works if you have millions or billions of dollars.
Additionally, do you know the entity that helps the players get paid, ensures their medical expenses and health are taken care of, and provides other benefits? It’s the NFL Players Association. I suspect that the owner influenced the choice of the name. Perhaps they dissuaded them from using the term union. However, the NFL Players Association is essentially a union. Just like a Cadillac and a Honda are both cars. Anyway, ask yourself, why is it that a union is good for these millionaire players, but multibillion-dollar companies fight so hard against unions? Companies like Amazon, Walmart, Starbucks, McDonald’s and others have resisted the formation of unions so that the average worker cannot benefit from the power of collective bargaining.
These wealthy individuals have deceived you, so that they can retain the profits from your labor for themselves.
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The modern GOP's simplistic approach to the word "woke" is astonishing. To equate it with something negative is downright foolish. Can you imagine telling your child or parents to "sleep on" everything someone says or does to them? For example, "You can sleep on what John or Kenneth is saying to you. They have your best interest at heart." Or "You can sleep on when you leave your drink on the table to go to the bathroom. Nothing will happen to it."
To be asleep is to be unaware of what is happening, which is the opposite of being woke. To be anti-woke is to refuse to challenge things. It is to go through life passively, accepting everything at face value. It is to be vulnerable to manipulation.
Can you imagine this being the sentiment at any time in history? Gen X women, especially, can relate to the experience of having to carry dimes and quarters in case they needed to make a phone call because they were not safe walking alone.
It is concerning that the GOP would want their constituents to be asleep. Cults and cult leaders, on the other hand, would definitely want their members to be asleep. It is in the cult leader's best interest to have members who are not paying attention, who are numb, or who are asleep to what is happening around them.
If you know a Democratic leader, encourage them to turn the GOP's anti-woke campaign on its head. We need to be more vigilant than ever in challenging the status quo and protecting our democracy.
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The 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States after the Civil War. However, thousands of former slaveholders who had relied on enslaved labor for their economic prosperity faced a loss of income and power. So, they sought alternative ways to exploit black people to gain or retain income and power. The federal and state governments would play a significant role in black people's economic oppression.
A business owner knows labor is the most significant and indispensable business cost. It always has, and it always will be. But with new technology, replacing some of the labor costs with machines is becoming easier. But after the end of enslavement, there weren't many machines that could replace the work of the free labor enslavers had.
Some might argue that exploitation is a personal responsibility and not a systemic issue. However, this ignores the historical and legal context that has enabled white people to exploit black people in the United States. The withdrawal of federal troops from the South after the Civil War was followed by the enactment of Jim Crow laws that enforced racial segregation and discrimination.
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The difference between a boycott and a strike is that a boycott is a form of protest by consumers who refuse to buy or use a product or service until their demands are met. In comparison, a strike is a form of protest by workers who refuse to work until their demands are met.
Boycotts and strikes are potent tools that organizations can use to demand change. They target the economic foundations of entities or sectors that engage in unjust or harmful practices or exploit their workers. The critical factor for a successful boycott or strike is solidarity. If the boycotters or strikers lose their unity or commitment, their chances of achieving their goals diminish.
In this capitalist economic system, the outcome of a boycott or a strike depends on which side can endure the financial loss longer. The boycotters or strikers may seem disadvantaged, but if they remain united and determined, they can inflict significant damage on the target's finances.
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We live in a world where propaganda is pervasive and influential. Many of us are vulnerable and succumb to its influence. A common misconception is that wealthy people have all the power, which is a lie. The power belongs to the people, but they are tricked into thinking that they do not have power. The wealthy use various strategies to manipulate us and maintain their dominance, such as creating inflation, discouraging labor unions, and creating division among the lower and middle classes by forcing them to compete for resources that the wealthy control. The main instrument they employ to achieve this is capitalism. Capitalism is a zero-sum game, where someone has to lose for someone else to win.
Many of us, the majority of us, are drawn into the capitalist system because we have been taught that we can succeed with hard work. However, the capitalist system as a whole is rigged against us. Moreover, we are taught that other economic systems are doomed to fail because they are prone to corruption when the truth is that all economic systems have the potential for corruption, especially capitalism. We are immersed in a sea of corruption that people and corporations have caused in the capitalist system. And even though the corruption is evident, they tell us that other economic systems would be worse. We are fed with the positive aspects of capitalism and blinded to or given excuses for the inequalities that exist in the capitalist structure. They are quick to blame people with low incomes for being poor. When Ronald Reagan wanted to turn us against people with low incomes, he presented us with the image of the “welfare queen.” It was not a coincidence that the person was black and a woman. It was a deliberate choice. And most of us fell for it hook, line, and sinker. While not informing most of us that the vast majority of people on welfare are white. The federal government in the Jim Crow era could not explicitly exclude black people from welfare programs. They had to devise clever ways to keep the welfare program out of as many black hands as possible.
They accomplished this in many ways, such as:
- The Social Security Act of 1935 excluded agricultural workers and domestic servants, who were predominantly Black, from old-age insurance and unemployment insurance benefits.
- The Aid to Dependent Children (later renamed Aid to Families with Dependent Children) program gave states broad discretion in determining eligibility and benefit levels, which allowed Southern states to exclude or limit assistance to Black families.
- The Federal Emergency Relief Administration, which provided relief funds to states during the Great Depression, allocated more money per capita to white families than Black families and often denied relief to Black families altogether.
- The Works Progress Administration, which created jobs for unemployed workers, segregated its projects by race and paid Black workers lower wages than white workers.
- The Public Works Administration and the Federal Housing Administration, which subsidized housing construction and mortgages, enforced racial segregation and redlining policies that prevented Black families from accessing affordable and quality housing.
These structural systems were built into the government to make it seem like they were playing fair, but they were not. They had developed a system in which they would try to hide their racism. Many of these same structures still exist or have created new ones to replace older ways of systemic racism.
Ronald Reagan and other Republicans since have used these racist cloaks to fit their narrative and reinforce the stereotype that black people are lazy and always take advantage of a system meant to help people. Meanwhile, we ignore or justify the expl
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The video of Ta’Kiya Young’s death was disturbing, but as I analyzed it, I noticed several actions by the officer that seemed irrational. It was clear that the first officer did not perceive Ms. Young as a lethal threat. He was shouting at her and ordering her to get out of the car, but he was also standing safely at the side of the vehicle. The second officer, however, placed himself in danger by standing in front of the car. He did this voluntarily. Was this an official protocol to stand in front of a vehicle with the possibility of moving?
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I asked a question today and looked up the answer. The Democratic governor of Kentucky cannot replace Mitch McConnell with a Democrat if he steps down. According to a law passed in 2021, the governor has to choose from a list of three candidates submitted by the Republican Party of Kentucky. The temporary replacement would serve until a special election is held to fill the vacancy. This law was supported by McConnell and opposed by Governor Andy Beshear, who tried to veto it but was overridden by the Republican-controlled legislature. Therefore, McConnell’s Senate seat would remain in Republican hands even if he resigns or dies before his term ends in 2027.
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In my opinion, the U.S. political system and how it affects Black people has kept them in an ongoing state of victimhood. I think the system was designed by old white men who wanted to stay in power at any cost. I believe that they have made Black people suffer from oppression and injustice for a long time. I believe that Mitch McConnell's second medical event, at least it appears that way to me, that happened on a live recording, has shown us how evil, selfish, greedy, and hateful most of them can be.
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Stochastic terrorism is a term used to describe the use of language or communication to incite violence. The term "stochastic" refers to a process that involves random probability or chance. Stochastic terrorism is the public demonization of a person or group that results in the incitement of a violent act. These acts are statistically probable but cannot be predicted.
Stochastic terrorism can involve:
- Dehumanizing and vilifying a person or group of people
- Hate speech
- Public dehumanization
- Public figures
Stochastic terrorism is a type of extremist violence that is borne of increasing polarization. Extremism and terrorism experts have been warning of the growing threat of stochastic terrorism. These acts are much harder to predict by law enforcement.
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A well-known saying warns us to be cautious of those who claim to be our allies because they may also have ulterior motives or hidden agendas. This metaphor compares such deceptive people to wolves who disguise themselves as sheep to prey on the flock.
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Rarely in life are two or more issues sitting on equal footing. Bothsideism tries to tell us that one side carries as much weight as the other. Common sense tells us this is not true. Don't be fooled ask questions.
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How does it feel to be Black? It is shameful that not everyone can feel the joy of being Black and knowing that you are the foundation for everything!
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I hate term cancel culture. Using the term cancel culture shifts the attention away from the wrongdoings of the person and towards the people who are calling for accountability. For me there has never been such a thing as cancel culture, instead people are to face the consequences for their actions.
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Sundown towns are places in the United States that practiced racial segregation and exclusion by preventing non-white people, especially African Americans, from staying in town after dark. They used various methods, such as laws, signs, violence, and intimidation, to keep out people of color and maintain their all-white status. Sundown towns existed mostly in the North and West, but also in some parts of the South. They emerged after the end of Reconstruction and peaked in the early 20th century. Some sundown towns still exist today, although they may not be as overt as before. Sundown towns have a lasting impact on the racial and social landscape of America
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Shortly before I moved to Texas, James Byrd was killed. Horrifically by three white men. I would be lying to you if this did not give me pause about moving to Texas.
On a summer night in 1998, a black man named James Byrd Jr. was walking home from a party in Jasper, Texas, when he was offered a ride by three white men. Little did he know that this would be the last ride of his life. The three men, Shawn Berry, Lawrence Brewer, and John King, were members of a white supremacist gang with a sinister plan to start a race war. They took Byrd to a secluded road, brutally beat him, spray-painted his face, and chained him to the back of their pickup truck. They dragged him three miles along the asphalt, tearing his body apart. They dumped his remains in front of a black cemetery and drove away, leaving behind a trail of blood and evidence.
The gruesome murder of James Byrd Jr. shocked the nation and sparked outrage and protests across the country. It also exposed the deep-rooted racism and hatred plaguing some parts of America. The case symbolized the need for stronger hate crime laws and justice for the victims of racial violence. The three killers were arrested and convicted for their heinous crimes. Two of them, Brewer and King, were sentenced to death and executed by lethal injection. The third one, Berry, received a life sentence and is still in prison.
The story of James Byrd Jr. is not only a story of tragedy and horror but also a story of courage and hope. It is a story of how his family and community endured the pain and grief and fought for justice and change. It is a story of how his legacy inspired the passage of the James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Act in Texas and the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act at the federal level. It is a story of how his memory lives on in the hearts and minds of those who seek to end racism and hate in our society.
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The United States Supreme Court, often regarded as the highest judicial authority in the country, has had a profound impact on shaping the nation's laws and policies. However, a closer examination reveals a dark history of racial injustice in landmark cases. It is crucial to delve into these missteps to fully comprehend the extent of the Supreme Court's flawed rulings and their lasting implications. By understanding the mistakes made in the past, we can work towards a more equitable and just future for all.
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The sun is the ultimate fusion reactor, supplying enough energy to meet all of Earth's energy needs. All of nature benefits from this energy, but only humans need a way to make money from it. Greed and capitalism are the reasons why we have not yet been able to harness the full potential of this free, clean, and sustainable energy source.
If we could put aside our greed and work together, we could create a world where everyone has access to affordable, reliable, and clean energy. We could end our dependence on fossil fuels, which are polluting our planet and contributing to climate change. We could create millions of new jobs in the clean energy sector. And we could make the world a better place for all of us.
The least of us benefit when we all benefit. When we lift up the poorest and most vulnerable members of our society, we create a stronger and more prosperous world for everyone. So let's put aside our greed and work together to build a better future for all.
Here are some specific ways that we can work together to harness the power of the sun:
- Invest in research and development of solar energy technologies.
- Create policies that support the growth of the solar energy industry.
- Educate the public about the benefits of solar energy.
- Support businesses that are committed to using solar energy.
By working together, we can make the sun a source of clean, affordable, and sustainable energy for everyone. This is an opportunity to create a better future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let's not let greed and capitalism stand in our way.
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Everyone wants a protector. Minkah found one, Walta, a beautiful monster protector who would shield Minkah and his family from the monsters and the ghost of the previous family that lived there.
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If you remove a band-aid from a wound too soon, it will not heal properly.
For 342 years, white men benefited from playing in a system that limited their only competition to other white men.
Affirmative action was the band-aid put in place by white men to heal a wound that white men caused.
Affirmative action in education is a policy that aims to improve opportunities for groups that have historically been excluded or discriminated against, such as racial minorities and women. President John F. Kennedy initiated it in 1961 to ensure equal employment treatment throughout the government regardless of race, creed, color, or national origin. In 1967 and 1972, it was expanded to include women and college admission.
After a mere 62 years, the Republican President's appointees to SCOTUS decided, in essence, that all was equal now and Affirmative action was no longer needed because it discriminated against other groups.
These Republican appointees would try to justify their decision by bringing up cases where the SCOTUS failed, the Dred Scott decision, and Plessy v. Ferguson. Clarence Thomas, a Republican-appointed Justice of the Court and benefactor of the same Affirmative action policy he ruled against, tried to argue that experts got those cases wrong. What Clarence Thomas fail to mention is that those were white men that got those cases wrong. His omission of all the facts rendered his example
In recent years before the election of Donald Trump as President, there were rare cases of overt racism, such as the dragging death of James Byrd, Jr, here in Texas. Many racist people were not willing to face the consequences of letting their racism be known, so they would practice what I call subtle racism.
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The Truth About Jesus and the American Right
You may be surprised to learn that Jesus was not a Christian. He was Jewish and followed the Jewish faith. But what does that mean for the millions of Americans who claim to follow his teachings? How have they distorted and corrupted his message to suit their own agenda? How are they using their political power to impose their version of Christianity on everyone else? Don't miss this eye-opening episode.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? Propaganda. Okay, guys, let's get into this. Propaganda is the deliberate and systematic use of information,especially of a biased or misleading nature, to influence the opinions or actions of othersfor a specific purpose. Propaganda can take various forms.
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Citizens of Indianola expect honesty and transparency from their elected officials. As someone who grew up in the town and graduated from its high school, the mayor, owes it to the people to be truthful about what happened and to ensure that justice is served.
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"Might over right" means that those with power or strength can impose their will or justice over those weaker or less powerful. It is a variation of the phrase "might make right" or "might is right," which is an aphorism on the origin of morality. According to this view, a person's character is determined by those who can enforce their ideas or standards on others by physical force or manipulation. This can be seen as a descriptive statement of how the world works.
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“Protections of Medical Conscience” and allows Florida healthcare providers and payors to refuse services based on their moral, ethical, or religious beliefs. It looks like a new way of practicing discrimination to me. Here is a copy of the link to the bill. https://drive.google.com/file/d/10hQDf5-hjbSYvrJQ6ONxeGTepiUiYP_y/view?usp=share_link
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The myth is that we need more police officers. It's an easy, throw-away line that politics use to rally you to their side. Who is going to vote NO to more police, more protection? My question to you is, did police protect those 8 people that died yesterday at the end of the shooter's gun? No! Because, for the most part, the police react to a crime that is being committed. The truth is more police are not the answer. The answer is to decrease crime. You do that with better gun laws, addressing poverty, education, and creating an environment of equal opportunity. Reacting to something that has happened means you are already too late to stop it.
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MLK, Jr. was right. As he sat in a Birmingham Jail, he knew that our struggle as a people could be helped or made harder depending on the white moderate. King understood that some areas could be seen as gray areas, but freedom, yes that includes economic freedom, is one of the one things that is either right or wrong. He saw that white moderate would only go so far. This means that the white moderate was picking the side that was against the black person, against freedom. Freedom comes in only one flavor. Anything else is oppression.
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The story of the Indianola Business boycott of 1986. It started on March 27, 1986. Let's go back in time.
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What's guys? So what's on my mind today? Capitalism. Okay, guys let's get into this.
Too often, people accept the narratives that capitalism is natural and inevitable, that it promotes freedom and democracy, while also fostering innovation and progress, at the same time reducing poverty and inequality, and is also compatible with environmental sustainability. If told someone that I had a pill that could do all of that for them, I would get laughed out of a building and be branded a charlatan. But, people are naive about what capitalism does for them and what it does not do for them and that they could be better served by a different economic system.
Let’s start by looking at the claim that capitalism is natural and inevitable. Capitalism, like all economic systems, is a human invention. It is not a force of nature or something that will always exist. I mean animals don't use capitalism. Capitalism is a set of rules and regulations that are designed to benefit certain people and groups while marginalizing or exploiting others. So, it is not natural or inevitable - it is a choice.
The idea that capitalism promotes freedom and democracy is also a myth. Capitalism relies on large concentrations of power, typically in the hands of a few wealthy and powerful individuals or corporations. This power imbalance can lead to a lack of freedom and democracy, as those with power can influence or control the political and economic systems.
When it comes to innovation and progress, capitalism has had a mixed record. While it has certainly been a force for progress in some areas, it has also hindered others. For example, capitalism can lead to a focus on short-term profits, which can limit the development of innovative technologies that have long-term benefits but may not be profitable in the short term.
The claim that capitalism reduces poverty and inequality is also false. In fact, capitalism has been linked to increasing levels of poverty and inequality. This is because it often leads to a concentration of wealth in the hands of the few while leaving the majority of people in poverty.
Finally, capitalism is not compatible with environmental sustainability. Capitalism relies on the exploitation of natural resources, which can lead to environmental degradation and pollution. This has a negative impact on the environment and can lead to long-term damage to our planet. So, as you can see, people are often quite naive when it comes to the role of capitalism in their lives.
For us, it is important to recognize the myths and understand the reality of how capitalism works so that we can make informed decisions about our economic and political systems.
Okay guys, that's what's been on my mind today. Peace Out.
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What’s up, guys? So what’s on my mind today? Why did the right co-op the word woke? Okay guys, let’s get into this.
The word woke has a long history in African American culture and activism. It originally meant being alert to racial injustice and discrimination in society. It was used in songs, poems, speeches and movements that challenged racism and oppression. It gained more popularity in 2014 with the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, which protested against police brutality and systemic racism.
However, in recent years, the word woke has been co-opted by some conservatives as a way to mock and dismiss progressive values and causes. They use it as a pejorative term or as a term expressing contempt or disapproval to label anyone who supports social justice issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, women's rights, climate change action, immigration reform, and more. They accuse them of being unreasonable, extreme, or hypocritical. They also use it as a scare tactic to rally their base against what they perceive as threats to their traditional views and privileges.
But this is a false narrative that ignores the reality of social problems and inequalities that affect millions of people every day, even affecting people from the right. These people vote against actions that may help them. Being woke is not about being trendy or fashionable. It's about being aware of and actively attentive to important facts and issues that impact our society. It's about being compassionate and empathetic towards others who face discrimination and injustice. It's about being willing to learn from different perspectives and experiences. And it's about taking action to create positive change in our world.
So don't let anyone tell you that being woke is bad or wrong. It's actually a sign of strength and courage. And don't let anyone use the word woke as a weapon to silence or shame you for caring about others. It's actually a badge of honor and pride.
Okay, guys. That’s what’s been on my mind today. Thank you for listening and stay tuned for more insightful input on other current issues. Peace out!
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Okay, guys, this is part three. Let's get into this.
One of the worst things that people can hear about themselves is that they are racist. But if a person votes for someone that puts racist policies in place, then why shouldn't that voter also be considered racist.
In August of 1955, two men kidnapped Emmitt Till and brutally killed him. Those two men would go to trial in September of that same year. After the trial was over and the evidence deliberated by the jury, those two men were acquitted by an all-white, all-male jury despite overwhelming evidence against those men. All the men that participated in the murder trial of Emmitt Till had at least two things in common with him. They were all males, and they had all been 14 years old once and no one on the jury could see themselves as 14-year-old kid. Whiteness won.
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Okay, guys this is part two. Let's get into this.
The cases of Emmitt Till, Charles Lewis, Horace Duncan, Fred Coker, and many others are true stories of racism in its purest form. Remember, racism is prejudice plus power. Events like the Tulsa Race Riots, Rosewood, and The Red Summer, marking a time from January to December of 1919 where no less than sixty documented events of white mob violence to place, all demonstrated how the power of the U.S. government and capitalism would let racism flourish. White mobs felt safe going into black neighborhoods to loot, burn things down, and kill black people. Many people in these white mobs face little to no punishment at all.
Now, why 1919? Even though there had been many episodes of racial violence against black people before 1919 and since, the year 1919 would be known as the Red Summer. White mobs looting and burning black own business and homes and murdering black people.
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What's up, guy? So, what's on my mind today? Prejudice and Racism.
Okay, wait, before we get into this there is one thing that we need to do, all of us. We will do it together because we have to put a steak in the sand and say this is the starting point, zero. Because if we don't all start from the same position, then some of us are going to end up in the wilderness wandering around. Okay, guys let's get into this.
The definition of prejudice is a preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.
The definition of racism is a belief that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race.
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What's up, guys? What's on my mind today? The Veil. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
The definition of a veil as a noun is a piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face. But we will look at the verb tense of the word veil, which means to cover, hide, or disguise.
A textbook case of someone using a veil (to cover, hide, or disguise) is the statement from Nikki Haley, about living in a South Carolina town divided by railroad tracks. Full stop right there. Why? Why did the railroad tracks divide the town? I'm sure many black people know what she was saying, but she never speaks the truth about why. The fact that she never addresses why the railroad divided the town is problematic, this is her using a veil to cover up, hide, or disguise. But I am black and from one of those towns, so I can tell you this. She grew up in a town built on racism, redlining, and jim crow laws. I know this because I grew up in the same small type of town in Mississippi. Indianola was a little unique, in that, the railroad tracks and the bayou winding through the town combined to create an artificial and natural boundary between black and white communities in the area. Towns like these are dotted across the south. The railroad track or some other natural or artificial landmark acts as the boundary.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? Guilty. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
The United States of America would have you think it does not believe in collective guilt.
But this is 100% incorrect.
When over 100,000 Japanese-Americans were incarcerated in internment camps during World War II because of Executive Order 9066, the survivors received an apology and reparation, from the United States because the United States of America recognized its collective guilt. After a decade-long campaign, the Japanese-American community won congressional approval for a law, The Civil Liberties Act, signed by President Reagan in 1988 and paid each surviving victim $20,000 in compensation to try to right a wrong.
It is not bombastic nor grandiose to say that the ancestors of many Black Americans suffered far more significant losses concerning life, liberty, dignity, and the pursuit of happiness than any of our fellow incarcerated Japanese Americans. If the pain and indecency suffered by our fellow Japanese Americans were considered a ten on a suffering scale, then the ancestors of many Black Americans suffered a million times worse. It is also noteworthy that this nation not only apologized to those Japanese Americans, thus admitting its collective guilt or moral fault, but the United States of America also paid them reparations. The reparations were intended to provide some restitution for Japanese Americans' suffering and injustice during World War II. They were also meant to acknowledge the past's wrongs and demonstrate the nation's commitment to justice and the protection of civil liberties. Millions of Americans were responsible for paying these reparations, promised in 1988, in the form of taxes, despite not being involved in the decision, in 1942, to incarcerate Japanese Americans at all. The collective guilt of this country was responsible for an awful act, thus requiring all Americans to bear the culpability or blame for such an appalling decision, even after several generations had passed.
Why pay the ancestors of enslaved people? That's a fair question. Here is the answer. This country promoted, allowed, and they made it legal, but its most essential flex, this country made it profitable to enslave my ancestors. I am, and millions of others like me are all that remain. I am the amalgamation of this country's rancid, vile decision to make my ancestors profitable. My enslaved ancestors are dead. But I am their voice; I am their face; I am their proof of this country's deed. I am the bill that is marked overdue, and it is time for this country to pay its debt for the capture and enslavement of my ancestors the foundation.
The country's founders purposely set this nation on a path of oppression, subjugation, enslavement, and disenfranchisement, of a group of African People that committee no act of war or invasion. They violated no treaties against this country. Nor did this group of people try to achieve economic or territorial gains from this country or try to change the religion of the country's people.
This country sought to uphold the vile practice of chattel enslavement for no other reason than capitalism. This country's practice of chattel enslavement benefitted the federal, state, and local economies, banks, and other institutions.
Those Africans were brought here for enslavement and became the nation's foundation and scaffolding. They grew the wealth of this country, without benefitting from that growth or wealth. They were brought here, against their will, to work the fields for the capitalist system of this government.
The United States of America should be held guilty as a collective because it passed on many opportunities to abolish the practice of enslavement. The 3/5th compromise, the Dred Scott decision and the fugitive slave act all solidified t
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? Racism. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
Racism is more subtle now, but subtle does not mean racism doesn't exist. Subtle is defined as delicate, elusive, or something achieved through clever and indirect methods. Before the civil war, the practice of racism was overt, it was in your face, and racist white people didn't care if their racism was known. But after the civil war, the practice of racism has moved slowly to something more subtle and has given some white people the braising idea that racism no longer exists. Subtle racism is the same as overt racism in what it plans to achieve.
Subtle racism initially included things like Jim Crow laws, black codes, redlining, segregation, poll taxes, and others. With the help of the courts, Black people slowly chiseled away at those forms of racism. But instead of racism disappearing, racist people have become even more subtle with their racism and practices. They are so subtle with their racism that, at least to themselves, they believe that racism no longer exists or that they are not racists.
Politicians, all from the right, often use the word like 'woke' as their silent dog whistle. Blaming this so-called 'wokeness' for making white children feel inadequate because if they learned the history of what their parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and ancestors did to give them the white privilege, it may make them feel bad.
Subtle racism has been weaponized and it affords the user of such tactics the ability to 'throw rocks' (to put actions and methods in place to boasters racism or enhance systemic racism) and then hide their hands, you know, make up an excuse of why they are doing it, plead ignorance, or downright deny the action that are doing are should be considered racist.
Today, most people know that being overtly racist can come with detrimental consequences. And in an unfortunate twist of faith, efforts to stomp out overtly racist people and or systems have caused overtly racist people to use more subtle ways to practice their racism. The people putting politicians in these places that will make laws that will target a specific group of people are now the pariahs of the system.
Racist people have found new ways of having their cake and eating it as well, in the form of subtle racism. The challenge then becomes what do you call people who claim they are not racist, but all their actions, their voting habits, prop up this racist system. Well, that's easy. Racist by proxy.
For a racist system to work, you must at least two types of people, one the racist people and two the people that racist people marginalize. Which camp do you belong?
Okay, guys, that's what's been on my mind today. Peace out!
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? Fear. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
The dictionary defines fear as an unpleasant, often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger.
This definition of fear hits home because I, too, know it. If you are the parent of a child, but especially a black child, regardless of your child's age, you also know it.
As a parent, but especially as a black parent, you always carry this fear, and you are always ready to place yourself between harm and your child.
Instead of the fear dissipating as your child ages, the fear only deepens as your black child ages because with age comes more independence.
This is when most black parents lean into prayer and the almighty to protect their child. Or they hope the people causing harm to their child have empathy for their child and their child's life. And when these things seemingly fail, you beg the question, "why?" to be answered.
I wonder to myself why none of those officers, black, white, or otherwise, why none of them could see Tyre Nichols as a human life, period.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? Just a boy from Tupelo. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
So what is a 'Just a Boy from Tupelo? Well, it is a 30-minute HBO exclusive special on the Elvis Presley phenomenon and the making of the Elvis movie." 'Just a Boy From Tupelo: Bringing Elvis To The Big Screen' is the short film's full title.
Do I have a problem with it? Yes, yes, I do.
This is yet another example of this country burying its head in the sand and trying to make itself feel better. This is another form of the lie that America tells itself over and over again. Elvis, despite how poor, was not just a boy from Tupelo. Part of the short film depicts how a young white Elvis can move in and out of Black establishments, picking up skills he would use later in life.
The title makes it seems that Elvis was just another boy in Tupelo. In reality, he was just another white boy raised in the late 1930s, and throughout the 1940s and 1950s in Mississippi. Elvis' competition wasn't the other great black talent of his time. The dirty poor Elvis Presley would have been able to go into places that a wealthy, talented black boy raised at the same time would not have even gotten near.
As I read the title, my thoughts were that they could not see the privilege that a poor Elvis, having been born and raised in the most racist state in the union during the Jim Crow era, had over all the other black kids, probably many of those black children were just as talented or even more talented than Elvis.
In any self-help program, coming to terms with and admitting the horrible acts you have done is the first step on a long road that should lead to improvements. Just a White boy from Tupelo" is the better title, and we all know why.
Okay guys, that's what's been on my mind today. Peace Out.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? America's struggle, okay, guys, let's get into this.
This country has an internal struggle that most refuse to believe. What is that struggle? Easy, it is this country's identity. The U.S. identity is the essential thing that has been a failure by both the citizens and lawmakers to describe since the founding of this country.
The United States of America's so-called founding fathers, in their declaration of independence from the English crown, set the tone for this country's identity crisis. They would pitch that this country stood for certain things that could not be challenged, right given to men by their Creator. But in reality, they would practice something else. The declaration of independence starts with the founders' words that they obviously did not believe, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." It is this identity that the United States of America has had a delusional relationship with since the founding of this country, and it still does to this very day.
This country's practices and deeds have been diametrically opposed to what the idea of America was supposed to be.
For example, a "self-evident" truth does not require complex reasoning or evidence to justify it. Liberty, a self-evident truth the so-called founders state that all men had, would end up as empty words because the country practiced enslavement of black people. This country's words or idea of who it thinks it is has been a lie m when contrasted with its practices.
Each branch of government has repeatedly usurped the self-evident truth that all men were born with certain unalienable rights, including Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. This country has shown that the life of the unborn is more important than the born's.
It claimed that freedom was an undisputed right and a self-evident truth that every person deserved. But yet, in practice, this country allowed enslavement, a directly opposite view. It forced indigenous people onto reservations and placed more value on white male and female lives than on others.
The United States tailored laws that would assure the promotion of white male or white female people over others. These people have had a prominent seat at the table and have made detrimental decisions for others. Some of these decisions, whether written or unwritten, would include things like redlining, segregation, jim crow laws, and unfair and unequal education practices, to name just a few, which would affect black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, LGBTQ, and indigenous communities.
It is very difficult to look at yourself in the mirror and admit that you are a monster. Time and time, the United States of America has continued to lie and sugarcoat itself into believing it is the hero of its own story. This is the identity crisis struggle of this country, the lie vs. reality.
Okay, guys, that's what's been on my mind today; peace out.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? Sugarcoating, okay, guys, let's get into this.
One of the definitions for sugarcoating is to make something superficially attractive, or acceptable or to make something else considered unpleasant or disagreeable seem palatable.
In this country's history, a long line of people, that don't look like me, were willing to write and swallow a narrative of this country that is simply full of lies or lacks the complete story. Plenty of reading and seeking people more knowledgeable than myself have helped me get to U.S. history's raw truth.
A more authentic story of the United States of America is often difficult to listen to, but having all the facts grounds us in reality and will help us avoid past mistakes. I fully understand the fear of some people, and that letting go of their privilege will relegate them to some form of a second-class citizen. These fear tactics have worked effectively in the past, and politicians from the right still use the same playbook today.
The recent decision by Ron DeSantis, Florida's governor, to drop African-American AP courses signals that some people still need to learn important lessons here. Oh, and it's not a silent whistle when the right uses the word woke. We know what you mean.
Okay, guys, that's what's been on my mind today; peace out.
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The AAVE meaning of the word woke differs from what most conservative-minded people think. The AAVE meaning of the word woke simply means to pay attention. Pay attention to your surroundings, what you are being taught, and especially to information not given to you. Maybe it's me, but whenever I hear a conservative person say woke, it always gives me pause, if you know what I mean.
Jefferson Franklin Long was a politician that was woke and understood simple common sense logic. My interpretation of what he was saying is, "Don't let these snakes back in the chicken coop." Yet the U.S. government failed to follow common sense and instead traveled down a road that would ultimately lead to disaster again.
In 1988 the movie School Daze premiered. At the movie's end, a young Laurence Fishburne broke the fourth wall and told the audience to Wake Up! I submit that they want you asleep (not paying attention), and you should, please, wake up.
In 1869 Jefferson Franklin Long was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. In
addition to being the first Black person elected to the U.S. House of Representatives
from the state of Georgia, he was also the second Black person elected to the U.S.
Congress. Long served the shortest term of an African American member, just three
months. But, when he spoke on the House of Representatives floor on February 1, 1871, he became the first African American to do.
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It doesn't give the energy the person that is saying it believes it does. I had a conversation about it.
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Capitalism is a powerful economic system that has brought unprecedented wealth and prosperity to the world, but when applied to healthcare, the results can be problematic. Capitalism in healthcare has the potential to promote greed
and inequality, leading to an inequitable distribution of resources and a disconnect between those who can afford quality medical care and those who cannot. This has a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities, and it is important to explore this issue in order to develop solutions that can promote health equity. I will examine how capitalism in healthcare has led to greed and inequality, how it has impacted individuals, and how we can work to create more equitable systems.
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Make America great again is an absolutely sh!t piece of "slogan." For me, it's a dog whistle calling racist people to unite. I know there are people out there saying I'm not racist. But you are, if you voted for, supported, or agree with that slogan, people running for office under that slogan, in any way, form, or fashion. You need to ask yourself, make America great again for who? For everyone? Well, we know that hasn't ever happened in this country. There is not one period in this country that America hasn't shown her ass to be racist. Pick any era of time, and I will show you where the marginalized people have had to fight against this country's racist ways. In this country, the vast majority of white men and white women have reaped the benefits and promoted racist actions and racist views. If you feel comfortable, then you probably should ask yourself if you are the problem.
Okay, guys, let's get into this.
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? Remember me? This is something that I deal with daily and probably something that will get worse. I am sure of it. Maybe it's time for Ginkgo biloba.The kid won't know about that drug. I think this is poem number 213 of my Project 365. Okay, guys, .let's get into this.
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? Hate.
It's 2013, and it's day 42 of my Project 365. The word hate had been nagging at me for days by this point. What do I want to write about hate? Over and over, I think, what do I want to write about hate? Then it hits me. So I took pen to paper, and I came up with this. A simple story, but I think it hits all the points.
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? Disappear into the crowd.
In the middle of my 365 Project in 2013, I was sitting around, pen in hand; the words 'disappear into the crowd' popped into my head. I wish I could show you my writing pad around this poem. I remember many erase marks and reaching for the right combination of words to express the desperate mood I thought this poem needed. I was left with this.
Okay, guys, let's get into this.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? A Weapon to Wheel. So on my quest to 365 poems in 2013, I have run into a wall titled write's block. So I sit, and a word comes to mind, relationships. There are so many angles from which to write. Pick one...breakups. I have been through a few of those. Okay, from whose point of view...well, take a listen.
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? Are you the 'safe' space? It may be challenging to stand up to racist people, especially if they are close 'friends,' family, or coworkers. But being silent provides the racist person a green flag to continue. Or perhaps worse, they think that you approve of them. Florida's government has passed a bill into law to shield people's feelings. And why it does not explicitly list that it is safeguarding white people's emotions, a clause in the new law more than delivers the true intentions - An individual, by virtue of his or her race or sex, does not bear responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex. An individual should not be made to feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress on account of his or her race." Name another group of people that would be ashamed of their ancestors' past, other than white people?
Holding a person today for the unethical actions of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, or any enslaver is wrongfooted. But not teaching how the laws, the justice system, and the United States government put in place a system that has benefited white people for hundreds of years and has been oppressive to black people and people of color is just as or even more wrongfooted.
Besides, I don't presume anyone is condemning people for their ancestors' sins, lack of a moral compass, or their failure to follow the teachings of their bible. Condemnation comes from people's actions today and how they mirror their ancestors' actions. This willful ignorance and dismissal of some people to reject their history will be more destructive to them, no us, in the future.
Being afraid to learn our history because it may cause hurt feelings among a group of people is the wrong approach. History can be painful, but the propagandizing of history for a glorious ideal of fantasy, you want to believe, is more dangerous to everyone. Embracing the pain, reflecting on how and why things happen, followed by a reasonable faith effort to correct past mistakes, will put us on solid ground to make tomorrow a brighter promise for everyone.
Okay, guys, let's get into this.
@quinnster from tiktok video
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What's up, guys? Happy New Year and what's on my mind today? Time has no Wealth. This is one of my favorite poems from my 365 project of 2013. So, I wanted to share this with you guys as we kick off season 2 of the podcast, "What's on my Mind Today?" Okay guys, let's get into this.
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So, what's up guys? What's on my mind today. But He sends no angels. This poem number 21 of my 365 Project that took place in 2013.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? The booster vaccines part two.
Okay, the Center for Disease Control, CDC, and the Federal Drug Administration, FDA, now recommends that people 18 y/o and above receive a booster vaccination. Of course, as with all medical decisions, talk this over with your family doctor or personal care practitioner to see if this will benefit you.
Here is the link so you guys can read the information for yourself. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? The booster vaccinations and my experience.
Okay, let's get into this.
Now, like all medical decisions, you should talk this over with your personal care practitioner, PCP, first.
Now, I work in the medical field. I have had many discussions with physicians on their stance about receiving the booster vaccine. The physicians that I work alongside have received the 1st and 2nd doses of the Moderna vaccine. Although I haven't spoken with all of them, I have talked to enough of them to conclude that receiving the booster vaccination is a good idea.
What do you think? Yes or no? I received my booster on November 14th.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? First mate. I'm talking about your very first "sexual experience." Well, kind of. This poem is number 157 of my 2013, 365 project, titled First Mate. The poem has a Dr. Seuss type of vibe to it, and that's on purpose. These last few podcasts and the next ones will focus on talking about privilege and then white privilege. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? No Justice, no peace, what does it mean. It doesn't mean violence. This motto calls people to understand that until we have equal justice for all, then peace for all of us is out of reach. We have continued to do the hard work of changing things.
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What's up, guy? So, what's on my mind today? Just a thought. This poem was number 256 in my Project 365 for the year 2013. I am sure that we have all have been there at one time or another. A period in life in which we wished we could stop the thinking process. We try to sleep and it fails us. The switch to turn this process off comes at a very high cost. This should never be an option and I implore you to please seek help if it ever does. Believe it or not, talking out your problems does help.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Hours: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish.
800-273-8255
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? Sometimes they say the quiet part out loud. But were listening? Okay, guys, let's get into this. A massive voting block could be created if middle-class and poor white people joined forces with the middle-class and poor Black people and people of color, swinging power to the majority of the people in the country.
Then why has it hasn't happened? The economic power of such a voting block would prove itself formidable. Could there be a simple answer as to why this hasn't happened? I think yes. Remember the K.I.S.S. theory. K.I.S.S. is an acronym that stands for "keep it simple stupid." And why many things may need a long explanation to get to the true heart of why something is happening.
The reason why these people haven't joined forces isn't one of them.
Occam's razor, another theory, applies here also. In layman's terms, it's a theory that says that the simplest explanation is usually the best one.
The 36 President, Lyndon B. Johnson, said the quiet part out loud. L.B.J., a savvy white political force raised in the south. Understood that he had his fingers on the pulse of white people. He acknowledged that the way to move impoverished and middle-class white people against the things that would benefit them was to convince them that they were better than blacks. L.B.J. once said, "If you can convince the lowest white man he's better than the best-colored man, he won't notice you're picking his pocket. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he'll empty his pockets for you."
Now no one likes to feel tricked. And believe it or not, that's the rub. So trying to engage these people and show them that they are voting against their interest often pushes them further into the rabbit hole.
That's the whole ball game: divide and conquer. It's always been the game. The middle class and poor white people that often vote against their economic interests find themselves hoodwinked by a part of the country that will cut them off as quickly as they no longer need them.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today, music. There are very few people in this world that can match my love for music. The complexity of the sounds and the ability of the artist to tell a familiar story is what traps me. I grew up with people that shared my love for music, and they have exceptional talents. I would beg them to teach something. One of my friends showed me how to play the eight notes of the bass line to "Billie Jean." Yes, I was jealous. I was always jealous that I did have any formal training on the piano. Nowadays, I hear about these kids making money by creating beats to sell to artists. I think, "Man, I know a guy that would have been great at creating beats." One day while in a restaurant, I saw a guy playing a Cajon. I said to myself, I know I have noticed that instrument before, kind of. So this is a story about that discovery. As you guys have probably already figured out, I tried to learn and soak in as much of the tremendous amount of talent that was around as I could. Okay, guys, let's get into this!
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? It's all about the women, Black women. Black women are the backbone of Black culture. Until we decide to lift all Black women as a Black community, we will continue to run in place. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today, "Too Late." The best teachers can plant a seed that will bear many fruits well into the future. They slip those nuggets of information to you repeatedly, without you becoming aware that you are getting a life lesson. My most formidable teacher was very much like Mr. Miyagi, my dad. Simple tasks that seemed meaningless to me or I saw as a way to extract "free labor" often planted those fruitful trees that I still pick from today. Today's poem is number six from my 2013 project 365. Now, it's simple. But one of my favorite quotes is about simplicity. It states, "Within simplicity lies the sublime."-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. It means that there is a grandeur found in intelligibility. I know, Germans, you have to be careful quoting them. But I found this quote in a book titled "All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum. Which is confirmed, by the way, now fight me. But if someone would ask me to explain that quote to them now, I would say K.I.S.S. or keep it simple stupid. I know that's kind of harsh, but it's to the point. So this poem plays on the lesson my dad taught me in three acts, 1. Action, do something. 2. Don't be afraid to fail, but if you do fail, then do it quickly. 3. Don't dwell on your failures. These are valuable lessons from which to learn. Please make a new plan and try it out. Okay, guys, let's get into this.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today, The Big Day. I wonder if you guys caught that I said, The Big Day and not MY Big Day. I would eventually have a "Big Day," but this poem is not about that at all. No, this is a poem about a person (me) that knew his time had run out. There would be no hero moment here. No dramatic moment of me rushing in and shouting, "this wedding should not proceed." Nope. According to the Gambler's rules, I should walk away, and that's what I did. Okay, guys, Let's get into this.
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Day five of my 2013 Project 365. I love this poem for so many reasons. It's simple. It's meaningful. It's impactful. 9/11.
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? All relationships must end. This poem is for the ones that don't end so well. This is the fourth poem of my 2013 Project 365.
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today, A Blew Duet. This is the third poem of my 2013 Project 365. I originally wrote this poem in 1998. I was working as an ICU nurse in my hometown of Indianola, MS, and while watching this older man that I had known all my life say goodbye to his wife, I picked up my pen and started writing.
We were going to turn off the ventilator and extubate her whenever he was ready. I turned off most of the alarms to give him as much peace as possible. I then watched him from the desk to signal me when he was ready.
He told his children to wait outside as he sat there with her. He held her in silence mostly. But he did talk to her, and he cried. I brought him tissues, but men of that era always had a handkerchief with them. No amount of time would be enough for him, and if he wanted to take my whole shift to say goodbye, then so be it. Selfishly I wished he would have.
In a bigger facility, I would have called respiratory to come and extubate the pt and turn off the vent. During the night shift in a small facility in Indianola, the ICU nurse wears many different hats, and the responsibility would fall to me. I love my job as a nurse, except for this part of the job.
After some time, he signaled to me he was ready. He shook my hand and thanked me. His sons and daughters came into the room. I called the ER doctor over, we disconnected the ventilator from the ET tube and turned it off. Deflated the endotracheal tube balloon, removed the tape, and pulled the tube. The pt was not breathing, but there was a rhythm on the monitor and a feeble pulse. Her pulse was gone after 3 mins marking the end of her life, death.
I tried to leave the room, but the family wanted me to stay. I stayed for a few more minutes, but then I gave all the time they needed to say goodbye.
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What's up, guys? What's on my mind today? Well, on day two of my 2013 Project 365, I wrote this poem that I titled Nothing. I hope you guys enjoy it.
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In 2013, I decided that I was going to write a poem every day. The poem I am sharing does borrow familiar words from the greatest, Maya Angelou. Maya Angelou's poem Still I Rise hits themes about the struggle and difficulties of a black woman, and in the end, rising above it all with her focus determination. I come from a solid matriarchal social influence. They called my barely 5 feet tall, maybe a 120 lb great-grandmother "Big Mama" for a reason, and size wasn't it. This message is my message to the black women, those that have come before, and to the ones coming after me.
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What's up guys? What's on my mind today? Join me as I revisit CoViD-19 with Dr Arai. This is a follow up to the interview that we did a few months ago discussing CoVid-1 9. Today, we will discuss where we were then, our thought about today, and an outlook for the future. This interview is packed with a lot information. Buckle up and grab a cup of coffee and as usual, let's get in to this.
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I promise this episode is coming. Still researching...in the meantime, I will be recording a new episode about the coronavirus with Dr. Arai. If you guys have any questions please send me a message or make a comment below.
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What's up, guys? So what's on my mind today? The color purple. Ok, let's get into this.
So, I'm from the very small rural town of Indianola. It is located in heart of the Mississippi Delta. An area that pushes as far north as the Mississippi board with Memphis TN, and as far south as Yazoo, MS. To the east, the Mississippi delta ends just before Winona, MS, and to the west by the Mississippi River town of Greenville.
There are several things that this area is known for, from some of the worst poverty and injustice in America to the resilient black people and black culture there. The rich culture of music, namely gospel, and blues played perfectly off of each other. The black preacher would often sound like a blues singer, and a blues singer would sound like a preacher both delivering stories of suffering, rejoice, heartache, love, and family. Stories of life. One of the things that I remember hearing the older people say is 'take them to church.'
You should listen to this - Cream by Prince https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r967lcA_rR8 A small section of this in the podcast. But you need to see and listen to the entire video. Remember...grown folks music.
Cover of Erotic City and Dirty Mind by me!
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What’s up guy? So what’s on my mind today? Advice. My mom and dad both gave me advice. But not in equal quantities. The sheer volume of advice that my dad had to offer about things dwarfs the amount of advice I received from mom.
What my mom lack in quantity, she made up for it easily in quality.
Travel on this ride with me and learn the best advice I ever received from my dad! JG wasn't short on giving advice.
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Hey guys! What's on my mind today? Have you ever thought about what it must feel like to be caught in another person's dream? You sit, you wait, and watch as they cycle through their dream, and then it's your turn. You are only there for one reason. Your moment will come and then she will be done with you. You are relegated back to that dark area of her brain. She will need you, again.
Poem Stolen by Perry Green
Whodini's Five Minutes of Funk cover produce, arranged and played by P.Green
A.l.o.n.e. by Mike Leite
https://m.soundcloud.com/mikeleite/alone
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What does it take to speak out against injustice? Darnella Frazier proved last summer with a cellphone and her subsequent testimony this spring that you have to have courage. The definition of courage is the ability to do something that frightens one. Or it is strength in the face of pain or grief as cited by Google’s English dictionary. Throughout our collective history, as a country, there have been many people to display courage. But where Americans continue to fail is because of this made-up idea of race. I am a member animal kingdom and so are you. We are of the species Homo sapiens sapiens and we live on the surface of a spaceship called Earth. Our species prevailed, where other bipedal hominins became extinct. That is our collective past. We are the same people. Our collective presence has shown us that this designation of superiority based on a chemical reaction in our skin that is meant to protect us from the dangers of the sun and to allow the synthesis of vitamin d is ignorant at best. I often wonder how many great minds have our species Homo sapiens sapiens destroyed, killed, subjugated because of this misguided belief in superiority. Where could our collective presence be at this very moment? The warning comes because if we do not look at ourselves and understand that we are smarter, stronger, and wiser because of our diversity, but not our diversity in something a trivia as the color of skin. Then our collective future is doomed. There has always been one group of people that thought that they were superior to another group of people because of religion, philosophy of life, wealth, or whatever in the hell made you different from them. As our world became much smaller in the middle 1400s, skin color has grown out as the latest iteration of this backward ass complex. Can we ever outgrow this foolish way of thinking? Be courageous and speak out.
Music produced and arranged by P. Green
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What's up, guys? What's on my mind today? Regulations.
So today I'm going to talk about regulations. What they are and what they are not.
And then try to figure out why the word is thought of as a bad word in the Republican Party.
Now let's get into this.
The term Regulation in its simplest form means a rule. As defined by Merriam Webster, a regulation is a rule or order issued by an executive authority or regulatory agency of a government and having the force of law.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-02-17/texas-was-warned-a-decade-ago-its-grid-was-unprepared-for-cold
https://www.wsj.com/articles/texas-power-grid-was-minutes-from-collapse-during-freeze-operator-says-11614202063#:~:text=The%20Texas%20electric%20grid%20was,of%20the%20grid%20operator%20said.&text=Within%20three%20hours%2C%20more%20than,grid's%20operating%20frequency%20to%20fall.
https://www.texastribune.org/2011/02/08/texplainer-why-does-texas-have-its-own-power-grid/
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What's up, guys? So, what's on my mind today? Minnie Cox. A Black American that helped shape this country. And for me, there is no better place to start than my hometown of Indianola, MS. Minnie Cox, a graduate from Fisk University with a teacher's certificate, was first appointed as postmaster of Indianola, Mississippi, in 1891 by President Benjamin Harrison, a republican. But there is always a caveat. Cox was only appointed after no white Republicans qualified for the job. The appointment of postmaster possibly made Mrs. Cox the first African American to assume that role.
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So I was thinking about the Republican senators willing to vote to acquit the former president and a debate question to those republicans that will run for president in 2024 or really any election. "How can Americans ever trust that you will defend the country from foreign enemies but most importantly domestic enemies? You voted for the acquittal of a president that failed that one duty when a domestic mob of his supporters fought police, kill an officer, and was looking for the VP and senior leadership to kill."
How would they answer that question in a debate?
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Hey guys! So, what's on my mind today? CoViD-19. I just completed a great in-depth interview with Dr. David Arai about CoViD-19. Dr. Arai is a board-certified ER physician with over 30 years of experience in healthcare. I got to pick his brain and access his knowledge about all things Covid-19. I know that there are many questions surrounding this virus, the vaccines, mask-wearing, and 'will we ever get back to the before times?' We cover these issues in the podcast. Disclaimer, you should always make medical decisions about your healthcare with your primary care practitioner. Other places you can turn to for information include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cdc.gov, U.S. Food and Drug Administration fda.gov, your state or county health departments, and local governments. Remember, this is just another tool in your information belt. You and your healthcare provider also have the last word.
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I was going to talk about the cost of democracy and bipartisanship, but after watching and listening to Professor Eddie Glaude Jr. on the show "Deadline: White House," he sums it up nicely. He is saying the first thing that we have to agree on to are the rules of democracy. A functional democracy requires it to breathe and to grow. Some lawmakers seem to be abandoning these rules.
You can follow the link to the video. https://twitter.com/i/status/1354944388057726977
Anyway, that's what's on my mind today.
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Sometimes life imitates art. The Republican party will be given another chance to put the country over their party. Last year they failed and they embolden a president. Their reward was Mr. Trump inciting a seditious mob that looted, damaged, hunted members of congress and the VP Pence, all to try to prevent a certification by the congress of an election that Trump lost.
This is what's on my mind. Their last chance to do what they took an oath to do. Protect the country from all enemies both foreign and domestic. I'm not asking them to be Ironman. I'm asking them to be an American.
One chance.
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We only have one president at a time. So, if a president that is on the way out of office in a few days commits an impeachable offense, what do you do? Listen for my opinion on the matter.
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After the recent insurgency of the Senate and House of Representatives chambers on Capitol Hill on January 6th, many social media platforms have cut off President Trump's ability to use their megaphone as a way for him to continue spread misinformation and quell the possibility form him to incite another riot event. My take on free speech argument.
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