Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
To all of my GLBTQ friends, Happy Gay Pride Week.(I know it was last week, but I wanted to post on Parade Day) I tried to post it up yesterday, but the power blew out. I was waving my flag in your support yesterday, tho.
Google Gene Compton's for a really good documentary I saw on PBS last week. I tried to send the link to Bonnie and Mo, but for some reason it never attached. The journey of the classes we took togther, could have been complemented by this piece, had I known it existed. I would have begged for it to be included in suggested viewing. It could have answered questions from the actual people who experienced what went on to those whose closemindedness prevent them from even acknowledging things like this happen.
Read, share, teach and learn from each other as we express ourselves in this forum.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Taking Your Own Version of Freedom Too Far
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
While doing my morning routines in the park this just now, I came upon a horrific sight. At some point during the night, vandals struck. The Park House had been broken into. Paint was splattered on the steps, on the bushes, the beautiful greystone structure was now magenta,green and brown. Lovely for childrens' artwork hung lovingly on display, horrible when selfish and underfulfilled individuals have so little sense of value, they ruin beauty for the rest of us. The park worker told me inside was just covered with debris and paint. What causes an individual or group of individuals to believe it is a right of theirs to destroy what belongs to all of us? I have resided in this community for over thirty years. I remember the "good ol' days" in that park. Hanging out with my college buddies after class, strolling with my sweetie(s) LOL, catching some rays, I have always taken advantage of the running track (back in my running days), rolling in the snow with my husband to be,my best friend announcing her second child was on the way happened right there at the top of the steps, losing my own baby weight there on the running path while pushing the stroller, bringing the children of my family daycare program to the toddler swings, teaching or should I say TRYING to teach my son how to ride his bike, (Gr'ma was the one who finally found success with that endeavor), or the four foot paths of varying distance and incline, (my speed these days). The tennis courts, soccer and football fields, softball enclosure, basketball courts, dog run, playgrounds and sprinklers get a good workout from the community all year long. The Park House features an after school program. senior citizen center and a workout room. The summer camp season is about to begin tomorrow and now the park house has to turn away those who are enrolled until this mess is restored to some kind of workable order. This is not the kind of personal freedom to which I referred yesterday, this is just a vile and selfish criminal act. I hope the punks who did this are found and are made to restore everything back to the original condition. They should further be punished by having to clean up parks throughout the city for the rest of the summer.
While doing my morning routines in the park this just now, I came upon a horrific sight. At some point during the night, vandals struck. The Park House had been broken into. Paint was splattered on the steps, on the bushes, the beautiful greystone structure was now magenta,green and brown. Lovely for childrens' artwork hung lovingly on display, horrible when selfish and underfulfilled individuals have so little sense of value, they ruin beauty for the rest of us. The park worker told me inside was just covered with debris and paint. What causes an individual or group of individuals to believe it is a right of theirs to destroy what belongs to all of us? I have resided in this community for over thirty years. I remember the "good ol' days" in that park. Hanging out with my college buddies after class, strolling with my sweetie(s) LOL, catching some rays, I have always taken advantage of the running track (back in my running days), rolling in the snow with my husband to be,my best friend announcing her second child was on the way happened right there at the top of the steps, losing my own baby weight there on the running path while pushing the stroller, bringing the children of my family daycare program to the toddler swings, teaching or should I say TRYING to teach my son how to ride his bike, (Gr'ma was the one who finally found success with that endeavor), or the four foot paths of varying distance and incline, (my speed these days). The tennis courts, soccer and football fields, softball enclosure, basketball courts, dog run, playgrounds and sprinklers get a good workout from the community all year long. The Park House features an after school program. senior citizen center and a workout room. The summer camp season is about to begin tomorrow and now the park house has to turn away those who are enrolled until this mess is restored to some kind of workable order. This is not the kind of personal freedom to which I referred yesterday, this is just a vile and selfish criminal act. I hope the punks who did this are found and are made to restore everything back to the original condition. They should further be punished by having to clean up parks throughout the city for the rest of the summer.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Whose Independence?
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
This coming Friday marks the 232nd anniversary of this country's independence. But who is really independent? With Big Brother virtually everywhere all of the time, no one is free or independent any longer. Some of the these intusions like the new mandatory television digital signal boxes into our homes, that will take effect next February, is reported to be a two-way device attached to our televisions that will allow outgoing signals to the "big eye in the sky." Is anyone safe anymore in the privacy of their own home? I hardly think so. We as Africans in America, just celebrated Juneteenth. That's more like it for us...finding out after two and a half years that slavery had finally been outlawed. Where are the forty acres and a mule that had been promised to each of us? Do you know what can can do collectively with our forty acres pooled? We can be unstoppable.
This coming Friday marks the 232nd anniversary of this country's independence. But who is really independent? With Big Brother virtually everywhere all of the time, no one is free or independent any longer. Some of the these intusions like the new mandatory television digital signal boxes into our homes, that will take effect next February, is reported to be a two-way device attached to our televisions that will allow outgoing signals to the "big eye in the sky." Is anyone safe anymore in the privacy of their own home? I hardly think so. We as Africans in America, just celebrated Juneteenth. That's more like it for us...finding out after two and a half years that slavery had finally been outlawed. Where are the forty acres and a mule that had been promised to each of us? Do you know what can can do collectively with our forty acres pooled? We can be unstoppable.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Didja Miss Me? Well. I'm Back
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
Something was wrong with the site, and I couldn't sign in to post. So much has happened, so much has gone on. One day left before vacation. Can you say Hallelujah? It was a very productive school term, but, I am glad it is over. I am getting too old to keep doing this, but it is extremely rewarding. I certainly hope and pray the children have a rewarding. productive and safe summer. The expereinces they had during the school year should continue during the summer. With such a happening city we live, there are abundant activiities which to partake. Get up, get out and do something, anything...just do it!
Something was wrong with the site, and I couldn't sign in to post. So much has happened, so much has gone on. One day left before vacation. Can you say Hallelujah? It was a very productive school term, but, I am glad it is over. I am getting too old to keep doing this, but it is extremely rewarding. I certainly hope and pray the children have a rewarding. productive and safe summer. The expereinces they had during the school year should continue during the summer. With such a happening city we live, there are abundant activiities which to partake. Get up, get out and do something, anything...just do it!
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Reflections of Real Dads
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
RIP Tim Russert
Happy Father's Day to my Dad, Leonard Eversley, who left this world MUCH TOO SOON, and to my brother, Leonard James Eversley,
who also was taken away from us before he had his chance to become a
biological father. God loved him best and called him home, but I wish
he could have stayed a while longer. He was so young, full of life,
hope and promise. He would have been a great DAD. For those whose lives
he touched, were the ones who knew a father didn't have to be
biological, but just there for you with unconditional love. He was ALL
that and more. From his car accident, I learned to wear a seatbelt
everyday, I think we all learned that one. From his sacrifice I gained
wisdom. And surprise to you too, Dirk. For without you, I
wouldn't be a Mom to Kerrell. Time heals all wounds and the memories of
the past fade so that I can choose to remember the good times. I never
thought I'd ever grow up enough to even think these words, yet they came out
effortlessly. I live in hope I can continue to grow as a human being
who can find the good in everything and everybody. To all of my
extended family, blood related or not, I thank you for shaping me into
becoming the person I am today and the even better person I will be
tomorrow. For those who have gone on, I feel your love and guidance
still. Not a day goes by that I don't miss you. A truly Happy Father's Day to you all. Take the time to tell someone you love that you love them. Hold someone's hand. Whisper
words of encouragement. Give a shove in the right direction. If someone
stumbles, lend a hand. If you feel weak ask someone to give you some of
their strength. Last but not least know that these pearls are not mine,
but those of my Dad. who taught me that "all of the wonders I seek are
already within." I was truly blessed to be the daughter of Leonard Eversley
RIP Tim Russert
Happy Father's Day to my Dad, Leonard Eversley, who left this world MUCH TOO SOON, and to my brother, Leonard James Eversley,
who also was taken away from us before he had his chance to become a
biological father. God loved him best and called him home, but I wish
he could have stayed a while longer. He was so young, full of life,
hope and promise. He would have been a great DAD. For those whose lives
he touched, were the ones who knew a father didn't have to be
biological, but just there for you with unconditional love. He was ALL
that and more. From his car accident, I learned to wear a seatbelt
everyday, I think we all learned that one. From his sacrifice I gained
wisdom. And surprise to you too, Dirk. For without you, I
wouldn't be a Mom to Kerrell. Time heals all wounds and the memories of
the past fade so that I can choose to remember the good times. I never
thought I'd ever grow up enough to even think these words, yet they came out
effortlessly. I live in hope I can continue to grow as a human being
who can find the good in everything and everybody. To all of my
extended family, blood related or not, I thank you for shaping me into
becoming the person I am today and the even better person I will be
tomorrow. For those who have gone on, I feel your love and guidance
still. Not a day goes by that I don't miss you. A truly Happy Father's Day to you all. Take the time to tell someone you love that you love them. Hold someone's hand. Whisper
words of encouragement. Give a shove in the right direction. If someone
stumbles, lend a hand. If you feel weak ask someone to give you some of
their strength. Last but not least know that these pearls are not mine,
but those of my Dad. who taught me that "all of the wonders I seek are
already within." I was truly blessed to be the daughter of Leonard Eversley
Saturday, June 14, 2008
As Time Passes By...Farewell Walton
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
Good-byes are never easy. Some are welcome, some are bittersweet, some are a long time coming, and some are long overdue. I never thought I'd have to bid my high school farewell. Yes, I graduated more than thirty years ago, but there was always the comfort of knowing I could go back for a visit, (although I never did), if I so wanted. To know it will no longer exist is like a piece of me is gone forever. Seeing faces from the past, that haven't really changed much in my mind's eye, was a feeling that made me glow from the inside out. Spending time with Diana, my friend of close to forty years, brought us right back to the days of youth and innocence. Seeing the girls who I'd only casually seen in the hallways and never got to know, but always shared something in common, was nice. It was like we never missed a beat. And, although we entered the room with that common bond, we left as sisters in an experience. Yes, it is sad to know Walton is going to be gone forever after this year's graduation exercises, WE will be Waltonites forever. NO ONE can ever take that away from us. Farewell Walton High School.
Good-byes are never easy. Some are welcome, some are bittersweet, some are a long time coming, and some are long overdue. I never thought I'd have to bid my high school farewell. Yes, I graduated more than thirty years ago, but there was always the comfort of knowing I could go back for a visit, (although I never did), if I so wanted. To know it will no longer exist is like a piece of me is gone forever. Seeing faces from the past, that haven't really changed much in my mind's eye, was a feeling that made me glow from the inside out. Spending time with Diana, my friend of close to forty years, brought us right back to the days of youth and innocence. Seeing the girls who I'd only casually seen in the hallways and never got to know, but always shared something in common, was nice. It was like we never missed a beat. And, although we entered the room with that common bond, we left as sisters in an experience. Yes, it is sad to know Walton is going to be gone forever after this year's graduation exercises, WE will be Waltonites forever. NO ONE can ever take that away from us. Farewell Walton High School.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Who Now? What Now?
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
Okay, so now what will the next move be? Hillary and Bill, or HilBilly, (as they are so lovingly referred to on, The Week In Review **LMAO**, played themselves, and played themselves BADLY! President Obama, (I LOVE writing that, saying that, and visualizing that), cannot let THEM become Vice President. It is not a New Hope and Change we need. It is TIME FOR CHANGE. President Obama will be able to open previously locked doors just because he represents a change. The rest of the world is looking forward to a new day in America. Who would the best candidate be for the second spot? I think it is too bad John Edwards is not interested. His thinking and policies seem to reflect many of Barack Obama's. I hadn't given it much thought because I felt Edwards would automatically be the Vice President. Who should be our next Vice President?
Okay, so now what will the next move be? Hillary and Bill, or HilBilly, (as they are so lovingly referred to on, The Week In Review **LMAO**, played themselves, and played themselves BADLY! President Obama, (I LOVE writing that, saying that, and visualizing that), cannot let THEM become Vice President. It is not a New Hope and Change we need. It is TIME FOR CHANGE. President Obama will be able to open previously locked doors just because he represents a change. The rest of the world is looking forward to a new day in America. Who would the best candidate be for the second spot? I think it is too bad John Edwards is not interested. His thinking and policies seem to reflect many of Barack Obama's. I hadn't given it much thought because I felt Edwards would automatically be the Vice President. Who should be our next Vice President?
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Its HOT in HEERRRE
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
One week....what a difference a week makes. The weather is sooo hot and the relief can't get here soon enough. Not hatin' just statin'. Our trip to Central Park yesterday, was OUTSTANDING!!! The sprinklers had the kids happy to be with us`on such a hot day. I was happy to help provide them with so much joy. We must remember that children are young for only a short period of time. They should get as much enjoyment as possible because the Good Lord knows we are adults for so many years, enjoyment of childhood is very necessary. Seeing their faces all lit up, makes ALL of it worthwhile. Yes it is Hot in HEERRRE, so get in the sprinklers!
One week....what a difference a week makes. The weather is sooo hot and the relief can't get here soon enough. Not hatin' just statin'. Our trip to Central Park yesterday, was OUTSTANDING!!! The sprinklers had the kids happy to be with us`on such a hot day. I was happy to help provide them with so much joy. We must remember that children are young for only a short period of time. They should get as much enjoyment as possible because the Good Lord knows we are adults for so many years, enjoyment of childhood is very necessary. Seeing their faces all lit up, makes ALL of it worthwhile. Yes it is Hot in HEERRRE, so get in the sprinklers!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Living In The Moment
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
Taking time to live in the moment, and appreciate each day is a necessity. Getting so unravelled at the seams while just trying to make it through the day happens far too often. Gotta slow it down, just a bit, to catch my breath. Breathe deeply. Smell the freshly cut grass, and enjoy it for what it is. Hear the sighs of the babies who discover their feet for the very first time or the tenth time, it is all a wonder for them to enjoy and a pleasure for the rest of us to behold. Hearing rain tap against the windowpane while nestling against the one you love, feeling their heartbeat in rhythm to your own is an inexplicable pleasure. Living in the moment, one moment in time, every moment in time, is to be appreciated and enjoyed.
Taking time to live in the moment, and appreciate each day is a necessity. Getting so unravelled at the seams while just trying to make it through the day happens far too often. Gotta slow it down, just a bit, to catch my breath. Breathe deeply. Smell the freshly cut grass, and enjoy it for what it is. Hear the sighs of the babies who discover their feet for the very first time or the tenth time, it is all a wonder for them to enjoy and a pleasure for the rest of us to behold. Hearing rain tap against the windowpane while nestling against the one you love, feeling their heartbeat in rhythm to your own is an inexplicable pleasure. Living in the moment, one moment in time, every moment in time, is to be appreciated and enjoyed.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
We Are One
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
More shout outs to soon to be president Barack Obama. He has the ability to build bridges and bring people together. It is just what our country needs today. We have to rebuild the trust in our country that has been lost. We have to rebuld the trust of other nations who presently despise us. Our nation is capable of regaining the respect in which we were held in high regard. Pray for our nation, pray for our nominee and for heaven's sake, don't forget to pray for yourself.
More shout outs to soon to be president Barack Obama. He has the ability to build bridges and bring people together. It is just what our country needs today. We have to rebuild the trust in our country that has been lost. We have to rebuld the trust of other nations who presently despise us. Our nation is capable of regaining the respect in which we were held in high regard. Pray for our nation, pray for our nominee and for heaven's sake, don't forget to pray for yourself.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
BAM!!!
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
The time for change is NOW! Congratulations, Senator Barack Obama!!! 'nuff sed
The time for change is NOW! Congratulations, Senator Barack Obama!!! 'nuff sed
Monday, June 2, 2008
Time
Dedicated to the memory of Sean Bell...Respect
Time moves much too swiftly, for those who have something to do. Time seems to stand still for those who seem to want to waste it. Children want to speed it up, adults want it to go "back to the good ole days." No matter what we'd like, time is moving along. How we use it is what is most important. Remember, life is NOT a dress rehearsal. You don't a second chance to do it over, so USE YOUR TIME WISELY. Don't find yourself saying, "I wish I had done so and so before time got away from me." Use it or lose it. Time is precious and a gift. How are you spending YOUR time?
Time moves much too swiftly, for those who have something to do. Time seems to stand still for those who seem to want to waste it. Children want to speed it up, adults want it to go "back to the good ole days." No matter what we'd like, time is moving along. How we use it is what is most important. Remember, life is NOT a dress rehearsal. You don't a second chance to do it over, so USE YOUR TIME WISELY. Don't find yourself saying, "I wish I had done so and so before time got away from me." Use it or lose it. Time is precious and a gift. How are you spending YOUR time?