I Love Teachable Moments

August 19th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Now I don’t like to Post other People’s Work, but I have to tell this story, in short. Read Whole Story.

This is Tony Petite, a 12 year old boy from New Orleans. When Katrina hit, his family was forced to move to Denver. When Tony arrived, he felt out of place because the other students were more advanced. But Tony got something he wasn’t used to. Help. The teachers spent extra time with Tony getting him caught up.

Tony’s family moved back to New Orleans. They came back to their neighborhood where houses still had spray painted markings from when Katrina Hit 3 Years Earlier. He came back to his school, to see his A’s and B’s turn to D’s and F’s; he came back to fighting instead of learning.

Now the two People standing next to him are not his parents. They are the Principals of A New Charter School for Boys in the New Orleans Area, Miller-McCoy Academy. Tiffany Hardrick and Keith Sanders both come from Memphis and were Principals. They were also members of an Organization called New Leaders for New Schools, a non profit that targets leaders to become Principals in Urban Schools.

They left Memphis just as their schools were beginning to flourish to help in New Orleans. “I remember sitting in my living room and just crying, just really feeling for the people who were involved,” Sanders said. “Now we’ve been given the opportunity to be a part of the rebirth of New Orleans. How often do you get a chance to contribute to something like this?”

I could go into the fact they re-elected Nagin when He was inefficient at handling the build up and the aftermath of Katrina. I could point out that a lot of Misplaced Targets of the Storm have found a new life in other parts of the Country. I could tell you it is a disgrace that we complained so much when we saw the Storm unfolding, Now we have moved on with our lives like it never happened, while people are still suffering.

But I won’t. Instead I will give Praise to Tiffany Hardrick and Keith Sanders. I bet if I tried, they would say for what. Because they see the big picture and know they play a part. I will Praise Tony’s mother for seeking out a better school for her Son. I will Praise Tony for accepting the help when he moved to Denver. And I will Praise the Reporter that still believes we want to hear stories of inspiration.

Learn To Play Your Position: What More Can I Say?

August 19th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

The Story

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Hope. Hope was having a very bad day. She got an A on her Math Test, but the teacher pulled her to the side and accused her of cheating. She got an A on her Oral Exam, but the class made jokes while she was speaking. She was allowed to spend her free period helping in the office, but the kids that were in trouble threatened her for helping the teachers process paper work. She was just having a bad day.

Then Hope goes home. She runs in the house to tell her mother about her day. The first thing her Mother says to her is, “Why didn’t you do something to your hair. You look Horrible.”

Hope tried to explain. “I had two tests to take today and I spent this morning studying. If I had spent time on my hair, I would’ve been late for school.”

Her mother replied, “You think you gon get something out a book? You better make sure you keep yourself up so you can find a Man to take care of you. You don’t want to end up like me.”

Hope was so confused, she to her best friends house. “Why weren’t you in school today? You know you missed two exams.” Hope questioned.

Her Friend answered, “I don’t know why you spend your time in school. I dance three nights a week and make over $5,000. You need to come and work with me.”

Hope couldn’t take anymore. She ran to the local playground. A post up boy saw her crying and approached. He put his arm around her and whispered ‘It’s alright, Ma. Don’t cry. You should be my girl and I’d make sure nobody makes you cry.’

Hope was tempted but she knew better so she continued on. Then she looked up at the Sky and asked Why?

Out of No Where, and Angel appeared. Hope was transfixed in disbelief. “Hello. I my name is Dream and you’re starting to piss me off.”

Hope thought to herself, ‘Oh No. Even the Angel wants to dog me.’

Dream came closer to Hope and began to speak. “Let’s start with your teacher. Did you cheat?” Hope shook her head No. “Then why are you letting her upset you. Does she ever smile? Do you ever see her in a good mood?” Hope shook her head No.

“Let’s move on. What was the topic of your Oral Report?” Dream asked. “How Black People Can Help Other Black People Succeed.”

“Did you believe the words you spoke?” Hope shook her head Yes. “Then you need to get some tougher skin. If you had the same opinion as them, they would probably still ridicule you. It’s not the message, usually it’s more about breaking the spirit of the messenger.”

“Your Mother. She is a lovely woman.” Dream uttered. “She has a job, owns a house, takes care of you, drives a BMW…”

“Yeah, I don’t get it. I study everyday, I teach myself new math, I do random science experiments, all in an effort to be like my Mom.”

“Your best friend is sliding down a pole.”

“Yes and I got Neighborhood boys trying to get in my pants. Do you want to hurt me more by making me repeat this day again in my mind.”

“Honey, Where are You?” Dream smiled.

“I’m in a dirty park, probably losing my mind, thinking I’m talking to a Ghost.”

“You are not in the house putting on make-up, you are not rubbing baby oil on yourself preparing to be groped by random Men; You are taking time to think about Me. Your dreams. You will not lower yourself for a Man because that’s Not what I’m about. You will continue to speak over criticism because My voice is Loud. You will start to SMILE when you face opposition because You’ve seen ME, and you know I’m Real. You will wait for a Good Man because You are Not willing to sacrifice Me.”

“Come with Me Hope, I want you to meet my best friend, His Name Is FAITH.”

The Point

Our dreams are never going to appear out of thin air. Our dreams are never going to fight for our attention. “All the world’s a stage, and all the Men and Women merely Players; they have they’re exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his act being 7 ages.” In other words, everyone will play their position. The question then becomes What’s your Position?

The Teacher

This does not just apply to School teachers. This applies to anyone who is supposed to supply knowledge, but takes offense when surpassed. Your Character’s focus should be on inspiration. When did it become more about your pride than their growth? Why try to bring them down a peg or two, when you helped them climb in the first place?

The Mother

Once again, this does not just apply to ‘Mothers’. This applies to people that have made it, but encourage you to follow a different path. They entered the military as lost souls, found themselves, came back knowing exactly who they are and what they want to be; but will tell you, there is nothing to be gained in the Military. They sacrifice to get accepted to a Great College, then instead of telling that story, they fight for Affirmative Action. Character is built through struggle. They struggle and succeed, then expect you to succeed without the proper sacrifice. Question Motives.

I just have to throw this in. I asked my Cousin; How many people in the hood do think would be good repairing a Helicopter? She laughed and said NONE. I didn’t laugh. I said, “How do you know, when they’ve never seen Helicopter, except flying overhead.” Little Lessons.

The Uninspired

These are the Name Callers. These are the ones’ who have nothing to say, but they want to be heard. They don’t want to listen but want your attention when they lay out their excuses. They know that things aren’t good, but they don’t know how to fix it; so They Do Nothing. Except criticize those who make an attempt.

The Forgotten

Every man plays different parts during his lifetime, but I’m sure all of us play this part at some point in time. Like that neighborhood boy. He could’ve been waiting for the next basketball game, but because of his location and appearance, Hope could’ve judged him as a Dough Boy. Like the Best Friend. How do we know she was stripping? She could have a part in Musical. She could be skipping school to improve her dance. They hire dancers on talent, Not on Grade Point Average. But the money amount would cause you to assume.

For what ever reason, we all get overlooked. It might be the color of your skin but it also might be the tone in which you chose to speak. It might be the fact that you’re a woman but it might have something to do with the way you carry yourself. It might be because your broke but it might have more to do with your broken spirit showing through. It might be that nobody cares but it might be everyone who does care; you criticize, you ignore, or you just treat as a Forgotten.

The Dream

I bet you taught this position wouldn’t exist, HUH? You thought it was the imaginary character. The disappointing fact, It IS. The plays that really need these characters find them none existent. The students who would have an excellent chance to excel in college but doesn’t have one person to help get them there. The boy or girl that gets beat up everyday in front of everyone because Gangs have more Respect than Police. The girl that sees a way out of abusive household by having a baby.

Where is their vision of a Dream? Will an Angel appear out the Thin Air and tell them which path to follow? Yes. We are out here, strong. We just haven’t found you YET. But don’t worry; The Calvary Is On The Way. We’ve been through your struggles and made it out. We’ve be judged, overlooked, kicked, then kicked again when we were down; We’ve been criticized, felt humiliated and lost, and scared to move forward. But we won’t stop because we know The Dream is Real. We see it in your need to question. We see it when you stand up when everyone else would have you on your knees. We hear you when you cry out for help. And we are Coming. If we’re not coming fast enough, then seek us out. I know I won’t turn you away, and I’ll assure you, I’m not the only one.

My Favorite Hope

We all have Hope in Us. Most of Us want Good Things for our lives. We hope to get a good job. We hope to find the right mate. We hope all our basic needs as humans are met. But some of Us don’t like the sacrifice it takes to get there. The price is so high, we focus on the negatives and forget about The Hope. When the Hope is gone, We fill the empty space with excuses.

But what if we stopped and looked at the people who were trying to take away our Hope. They say, those who can’t do, Teach. So if you’re surpassing your teacher, do not allow their words to stop you. You will be greater than them and they know it. If your “Mother” is Bitter and Angry because she can’t find a good man, don’t listen when she stakes your future on finding one. If you know some one has no hope, don’t waiver in yours because they insult you. But don’t Overlook them either. That may be the only way they know to ask for help. At least make an effort to be someones’ Dream. If they don’t accept it, Fine. God accepts your actions, not their response.

Faith

None of these things would be possible without FAITH. If you don’t have Faith, it’s a pretty safe bet your hopes and dreams are Lacking. Now I Love the Lord, with all my heart and soul, but that doesn’t have to be your source of Faith. It can be your refusal to make the same mistakes as your parents. It can be your acceptance that life isn’t perfect, but if I do right, I’m going to be Okay. But nothing feels better than dropping to your knees, telling God what pains you, and leaving that pain with him. Problems don’t seem that insurmountable. Haters don’t sound that Hateful; more envious. And Hopes and Dreams flood the spaces once filled with pain, then anger, then excuses.

I’m going to Quote Jay-Z. What More Can I Say?

When It All Goes Wrong: Dealing With Disappointment

August 16th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

We all have moments where we think everything is alright.  Money is straight. Love ones are straight. And you begin to think, I’m Okay.

Then the walls begin to crumble and you don’t know why it all starts to go wrong.

I got a little news for you.  So is life.  I’m not extremely happy right now, but I’m still looking for the point.  I know that God doesn’t give you more than you can handle.  And I’m about full, so why does the onslaught continue?

All I can come up with, There is something I need to be a little stronger for.  I don’t assume to know God’s plan, but I know he loves me.  I know he watches me.

Sorry if this feels more like a journal than a blog, but I’m not going to tag this.  If you are reading this, God says help is on the way.   You are not here by mistake.  I’m writing this because this is not the first time I’ve felt this way, but it is the first time I felt the need to share it.  To let my own vulnerabilities show you it’s okay.  I’ll be here tomorrow, filling the internet with my thoughts, with a smile.

I hope this helps.  I don’t know who needed to hear this, but just writing it makes me feel better.  And maybe my day went so bad, so I had to write this.  So you could read this.  I’m telling you, THE LORD IS GOOD.

My Theory of Russia Invading Georgia

August 15th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

The President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, made an inspiring speech telling of the destruction left in the Wake of Russia’s push into it’s Sovereign Neighbor’s Territory.

I Love Video Games, I recently started playing Civilization Revolution. It’s a confusing game when you start, but you soon learn the importance of a few things.

Culture is important.

You have to have food. Great People. And Great Structures. If you don’t, your territories won’t grow. The strongest Cultural Cities have a diverse mixture of the above.

Money is important.

Nothing is worse than having War waged against you, and you have to succumb to demands because you can’t build up a troop force to match your opponents fast enough. No matter the victory you seek, money is a necessity.

Science is important.

Being the first to invent something garners many benefits. Countries will offer you Knowledge in Exchange for yours. You have the ability to modernize your forces faster. And it sparks creativity allowing the construction of Great Wonders.

Government Is Important.

Depending on the the time period, you have to switch your government with your goals. Depending on your mindset, You may choose a Monarchy :Sorta like France. You have all these beautiful structures and ambiance, that just draw people back. Feudalism: Sorta Like Russia. You use the government to strengthen your Armies. Despotism: Sorta like Iran. You have the authority to do as you please, but you get no added benefit to the strength of your people. Communism: Sorta like China. You are able to build up your country fast, but you quickly lose the respect of your people. Republic: Sorta like Mexico. You have the ability to send out mass “settlers”, but decreases your ability to be productive. And Of Course Democracy: You get double the Science and Trade, but you can’t declare War, You Can Only Defend Yourself.

You gain the ability of Democracy half way through the game, and I always change and stick with the Democracy. I usually have no need to attack another Country, I concentrate on strengthening my Boarders. I like to win with Culture or Money, though Science is usually easiest to obtain.

The Most Important Aspect Of The Game Is Your Army.

If you do not have sufficient forces in a particular area, No matter your money, culture, or knowledge, You will be attacked. It is a certainty. Some times War is waged from Countries far away from your territories, so I blow them off. I give them nothing. I’m much more willing to negotiate with those on my boarders.

The irony in that is, it comes a point where even my neighbors turn on me. I make them offers, they insist on Violence. I destroy the Armies they send at me and once again offer them peace. They again refuse. Now I’m spending money on troops instead of fixing my country. Then when I demoralize my neighbors and they accept peace, that force from far away rolls up on my Boarders.

While I destroyed their Armies, The Far Away Country moves through their territories, with little resistance, because they wanted a War, with Me.

Crazy how I can even over think a video game, huh? But it’s true.

As Americans, we want all the things our Country stands for. Truth, Justice, and Right to the Pursuit of Happiness. These are the Same Values President Mikheil Saakashvili, damn near cried about in his Press Conference With Condoleeza Rice today. He poured his soul out because while his country embraced Democracy, Russia Chose Violence. While Georgia spent money on beautifying it’s Cities and uplifting it’s Population, Russia chose to strengthen and mobilize it’s Armies.

The next thought is who was the real target. Does Russia gain World Power Status from taking over Georgia. I don’t think so. It’s a message. We’re coming after you. If you don’t give me what I want, there will be War. And Georgia found out the hard way. If you don’t have the Military Force, it’s almost impossible to live in Peace. If Israel was on Russia’s boarder, I bet they would have thought twice. Why not go after Poland, because they have the Military force of America to back them up.

It’s wonderful to want to be a Peace Loving Nation. But until we get to a point where every country feels that way, it’s unlikely to happen. There will always be the BIG GUY the Picks on the Little Guy. And if left unchecked, He becomes Big Enough to Cause Conflict With The Other Big Boys.

I’ve Never Voted For A Reality Show; Until MTV’s America Best Dance Crew

August 14th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

So, I’m supposed to be getting ready to spend a three day weekend with my fam. I have to pack for me and my daughter and I’m a woman so you know how long that takes me. While packing, I was listening to the SPECTA Show and 100radio.com, and half way watching America Best Dance Crew, on Mute. I get engaged by the witty intellect of the host and call in.

That should be sufficient groveling I’ll end it there. 🙂

Anyway I get nothing accomplished. So I turn on the sound and watch the rerun of America’s Best Dance Crew. I am a huge fan of the Show. But I never call in and vote. I just accept the results for what they are. Sometimes I don’t agree but that’s cool. What affect does it have if I don’t vote?

Then last week they sent home Fannie Pack and I was crushed. They were by the far the most consistent and always entertaining. They were my favorite crew. But I still didn’t feel bad for not voting. I mean they all will benefit from just being on the Show. I bet Broadway got in touch with Fannie Pack before the show was over. So I’m still cool with not voting. Oh yeah, I forgot about Supreme Soul, they left way to soon.

Round 1 goes to SuperCrew. Round 2 goes to So Real Cru. In the package before the third dance the leader of SuperCrew slaps me in my face. He says, “Everyone always told me I wasn’t good enough. But look at me Now. I SHINE. MY CREW SHINES.”

The first time I ever voted for a “Reality Show”. I realized that this is way more than just my entertainment, it is these groups passion. They won me with that. Of course, I waited and watched both performances, but the passion he demonstrated in those words tugged at me. So Real Crew killed it too. But I couldn’t get past those words.

Eight years they’ve been together. They have lost jobs to follow their passion, they’ve faced ridicule, and countless disappointments. Eight long years later they are reaping the rewards. Perseverance. Sacrifice. Dedication. And a couple of people willing to Struggle with you. That’s more than any performance, by any crew, on any set, in any town.

Now I’m laughing at myself because it’s late and I’m up writing to you. But I guess if I’m Dedicated and willing to make a couple Sacrifices, I will Persevere. And if you’re willing to struggle with me, then one day we may reap the rewards. Just a Thought.

Nigga Vs Nigger: Yeah I Said It

August 13th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

I Know I’m Gonna Catch It For This One!

I had an interesting conversation today, and it left me quite unsettled. So I had to stop and think. I spent the majority of the day thinking about this one topic. Should we stop using the word Nigger? Now those that label me “Conservative” might be surprised to find out, I love the word. To me, it no longer holds any power, racially. If used to describe me, I accept because that person must not know me very well. And more over, they can’t stop me. They don’t deserve my energy, I keep it moving.

But I got deeper in thought, That’s What I Do? There are two different definitions, Let’s go through the difference.

Drug Dealers

There are different kinds of drug dealers. Don’t disregard and say all dealers are bad. Some are reserved in the fate that is awaiting them. Is it right? No. But it is reality and that’s the realm in which I work.

The Nigger drug dealer will sell to a mother, while her children watch, knowing they are hungry. He will take the money and walk away. Even though, he was once that little kid and he knows how it feels. NIGGER.

The Nigga drug dealer will sell to mother, after giving her children a dollar or two, then catch them on the fly and take them to the store. He will buy them some thing to eat. That might be all he does, but it’s more than the Nigger.

C.R.E.A.M. As long as we believe it, there will drug dealers. Until we give the Community real hope, there will be addicts. Reality. I’ve been there, I know that all dealers aren’t bad people. I know that some just don’t care, About Anything. So when I see that Cops killed a BLACK DRUG DEALER, I think of my NIGGAS that told me that that’s how they would go out. And I believed them.

And when I say they are smart. They will break down economics to you. They can give you an opinion on the Middle East. They do more reading than some of the “Liberals” that provide them with excuses they don’t use. But the minute you tell them they would be good in the “Real World” they pull away. Why? I have no idea. If they believed in themselves just a little bit, I wouldn’t have anything to write about.

Baby Daddy’s

Sex. What can I say? Again, the REALITY in which we exist doesn’t make the abstinence fight very affective. They even target the young girls with BRAT dolls. My daughter will never get one. But in our society, sexuality is more main stream.

The Nigger Baby Daddy has the means to take of his child, be they legally or illegally and doesn’t. Even worse are those that degrade the Baby Mothers’ by demanding services for assistance. Sex for Diapers. NIGGER.

The Nigga Baby Daddy got a girl pregnant before he was ready. He got a job, but it’s just not enough. He knows he has to finish school but the Baby Mama degrades him from not hustling. Keep going, because one day you will be standing on your own two feet and will have made it because you worked for it. MY NIGGA.

Children don’t ask to be born. Nor does their birth mean the end of your life. I didn’t start this thinking process until after I had my daughter. I want so much for her, but I don’t want to begrudge her the things I loved in my childhood. I want her to get a Fantastic Education in a Black School. I want her to Love Hip-hop because the music has a message.

Black Men it’s O.K. that you are not perfect. As long as you are trying, We got you’re back. So think about that when you try to hollar at that girl and she turns you down because your broke. That’s a blessing. Just do you a little while longer and God will send that WOMAN that will love you, fight you, and struggle with you. You will find your rib.

Baby Mamas

Sex! Yadda, Yadda, to much sex in videos, Yadda, Yadda, Girls Kissing on T.V. Yadda, Yadda. You get the point. Teach more Self Responsibility. Another Blog Another Day!

The Nigger Baby Mama will welcome public assistance. She will invite her drug dealing boyfriend to live with her. When he gets locked up, she’ll move to the next man, and get pregnant by him, too. Then as it gets harder to attract men, 2 Kids and All, she goes for child support. She gets new shoes, her hair done, and new outfit for the club Friday Night. I thought it was CHILD SUPPORT! NIGGER!

The Nigga Baby Mama will welcome public assistance. She will continue her studies and try to be the best Mom she can. When she gets a job, the government will cut her off, IMMEDIATELY. No more food stamps, No more access to public housing, all without giving a chance to allow for saving. But she carries on. And it might not be perfect, but her kids are healthy, clean, and being properly educated. My NIGGA.

And it’s the truth. There are Mother’s that don’t ask for hand outs and it’s not because they don’t need the help. It’s because the real help they need is not offered to them. Ask most Mothers’, Do you want a Rebate Check or AFFORDABLE Child Care rates? Ask most Sistas’ in the hood, if you could keep your benefits for 6 months to a year, would you actively seek a job? Yes. But you can’t ask them to work at Wendys’ knowing they are going to lose everything they receive now instantly.

Now I know every state is different, but in V.A. you can’t get public assistance if you have a car of real value. Meaning you bought a Car 3 for 4 years ago and since then have fallen on hard times. They tell you to sell your car, then come back and apply. That’s not effective assistance. Lose your means of getting to and from a job, and we’ll give you food stamps. Question Motives People!

I could go on all night at this, who knows, I might do a part 2 in the future, but right now, I think I need to cover my Ass.

In each example, I used a description of a person I know, Personally. So I’m not applying this to everyone. Unless you know I was talking about you. I can’t help you there. You need to do some soul searching about YOUR CHOICES.

But to all of those that fall somewhere between the lines of the two, take something out of it. Maybe I didn’t describe your situation, but I beat you know both types. Sit back and think of the last decisions you’ve made and see which line are you closer to. It’s not some thing you have to take offense at. “She wants me to look inside, Look Inside for What. I Know Who I Am!”

Good. Since you are so self assured, do the test. Think about the people around you and the decisions they’ve made and see where they fall. Does it mean they are Bad People? No. Does it mean you should no longer associate with them? No. It will make you more conscience of YOU? Maybe You’ll decide you were getting a little to close to the wrong line, and since then things have started going down hill.

I do it all the time. I question if the advice I give my daughter is appropriate at such a young age. I told myself I was going to be the first to talk to her about all the important stuff. But it’s hard to look at her and bring up Sex, at 3. So I don’t. Then she goes on a playdate and comes back talking about “Being Sexy For The Boys”.

I didn’t know what to say. I wanted to yell but that’s not the kind of mother I want to be. So I told her to play, like nothing wrong. I took my time, straightened my thoughts and went to my 3 years old and talked about what is SEXY. Did she understand? I don’t think so. But the next playdate was at my house. When the little girl said “Let’s play Sexy”, My Daughter said “I’d rather be smart.” I entered, set up Dora’s Chutes and Ladders and we played in Spanish.

I get to personal on this thing, but I want you to understand. I understand. We are all different. With different circumstance, different support systems, different thinking patterns. In those differences we have to find strength, not excuses. If each one of us draws those lines, and make decisions accordingly.

Now to those who find the “N” Word Offensive. I apologize but nothing is worse than someone trying to fake who they are. I am a work in progress and one day I may look back and realize the word causes detrimental harm. If that happens, you can take comfort in the fact you were right. You can even write me and give me a personal I Told You So. Until then I think the word is nothing compared to our current thought process. If you didn’t know, my favorite quote, “The most potent weapon in the hand of the Oppressor is the mind of the Oppressed.” Think About It.

Help Wanted: Equal Opportunity Positions Available

August 12th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Wanted: Young men to participate in Caged Experiment (2,000,000 Applications)

Salary: Negotiable; depending on time served

Requirement: Very low self esteem, innate ability to make wrong choice at every turn, strong desire to pass blame Elsewhere and the inability to function properly in society.

Benefits: Free Access to Health Care, Three Meals Everyday, Access to a Gym and Cable Television, and a chance to join the Felon Brotherhood.

This Nice Man will show you where to Apply

Wanted: Young women to participate in Breeding Experiment(750,00 Applicants)

Salary: To be paid in 18 years

Requirements: A Vagina

Benefits: Access to Free Health Care, Access to Public Assistance, and aren’t babies so cute

Do Not Apply If You Use These

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Wanted: Person of Color to Run For Office (Applicants vary by District)

Salary: Limitless; Depending on Character

Requirements: Easy on the Eyes, Clean Cut Appearance, Articulate Inspirational Speaker, and Very Energetic.

Please make sure your Drug Using Days Are Over prior to Applying

Benefits: Access to a Platinum Race Card, Celebrity, Inside Access to Hide Your Shady Dealings

Wanted: Street Pharmaceutical Reps (Number of True Applicants Can’t Be Verified)

Salary: Limitless; Depending on Lack Of Character

Requirements: Math Skills, Ability to Negotiate, Acceptance of Incarceration, Indifference to Death, Ability to Work Long Shifts and Be Discrete

We no longer give race cards, due to their ineffectiveness in Court.

Benefits: You get it All NOW! The Car, The Girls, The Dough, and You Never Have To Grow Old. You could even win some new Bling and a Promotion

Wanted: Students to Participate in Educational Experiment (300,000 applicants every year)

Salary: N/A

Requirements: No effort put into learning, Total Disrespect For Teachers, Disregard for School Property, and eventually Dropping Out

Benefits: This is An Entry Level Position. Applicants could be promoted to any of the above positions.

1-800-Rac-Card

When You Need Proof You’re Black

Apply For Reparations Here Blast the War Here

Click Here To See Newest Race Card Applicant

Wanted: Young People to Apply For Scholarships (Applicants decline yearly)

Salary: Limitless; Depending on Desire

Requirement: A Set Goal, Strong Work Ethic, A Lack of Excuses, Ability to Prioritize, Ability to Make Sacrifice, and a Desire to Seek Out Help

Benefits: There are NO GUARANTEES, but it is a Great Place to start

These Opportunities Are Sponsored By the Democratic Party

You Know You Can’t Do It Without Us, So Why Try?

My Declaration to Fight: Forging a Black Civil War

August 11th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

After America won it’s freedom from the British, we were a Country. A country ready to forge a path into history. But before we could reach the future, we had to fight amongst ourselves.

In Iraq, most of the violence is sectarian, meaning they are fighting over what they want their country to become. They are not over there saying let’s blame Saddam, the U.S., the world; I’m sure some are, but as a whole I doubt it. They are meeting with family and friends previously prohibited by their own government.

I saw a bumper sticker that said “War isn’t the answer.” I thought to myself; it’s the solution.

As Conservative Black Folks, we don’t fight like we should. We look at those on top complain just as much as the one’s on the bottom, and we’re stuck in the middle trying to navigate through hate, bias, intolerance, and a constant need to explain we are not all alike.

So I Make My Declaration of War

On our “So Called Black Leaders”, your services are no longer needed.

We have a duty to wipe out mass ignorance and not help support it, by supporting you. I will say it one more time; How in the hell did you make it? And why in the hell do you then turn around and tell me I can’t? And I’ll even answer it for you. You need me to broke and ignorant so you can succeed. Ain’t gonna happen. Your final check is in the mail.

On the FTW”S of our race, Fuck You too.

You get no more sympathy from me. If you think you have the right to sell drugs, rob, steal, beat, rape, or harass, and still be safe in our neighborhoods, you are wrong. You are a product of your environment, no you are a product of choice. You could choose to suffer a little now; go to school, maybe get picked on a little for not having the best clothes, or not get any play from the girls. But you choose to want it now, and Fuck The World. Not working anymore.

The choices you make forge that environment you blame so much. You sell more drugs-> there are more addicts-> the more addicts->the more kids grow up without the ability to have the bare necessities. You know all those things you use as a crutch. My father wasn’t there, my mother was an addict, I didn’t have food, and nobody gave a damn about me. You selling that crack to that mother causes the environment that holds you down. Seriously. Blame placed at your door step.

(Don’t send me any excuses. I got a million. But you will never hear me use one.)

On the ignorant for the sake of being ignorant of our race; What’s up?

Once black people risked their lives trying to learn to read and now you risk yours trying to stay away from a book. O.K. I had to pause right there. This should have been my first declaration. Why do we set a goal to be stupid?

When I was in high school, (gotta get personal for a moment), I was a nerd. I didn’t need a Training Bra until I was 16. I almost got into a fist fight with one of my Math Teachers’ for correcting her. I had a hard time maintaining friendships with females, so I was alone a lot. In that time, I taught myself to type, learn the math for next year, and write all kinds of poetry. I grew, even though I had to do it alone.

While you are so eager for that guy or girl to look at you, colleges are eager to give you money for an education. While you beat down those that study, you turn away assistance in helping you succeed. (Be their friend and let them help you learn) While you tell a teacher what your not going to do, you miss a chance for a flame to be sparked inside yourself. It wasn’t until I was handed an essay in middle school did I learn to appreciate Hip hop.

On black women having babies to keep a man; you know he ain’t no good.

My sistas, I know we don’t always get along, but you deserve so much more. And on top of that, You make our Men weak. I don’t want to hear you complain about Niggas’ being dogs, when you let them dog you. If you can play a dude to get yourself some bling, use that same influence to make him better himself. If he refuses, the answer is not to have a baby, it’s to move on. Do you and do it better because you don’t have some one bringing you down.

On black men having babies and not taking care of them; you know you wrong.

If your dad wasn’t there and you choose not to be there; that doesn’t make any sense at all to me. What excuse could your father tell you that would release all the pain inside you? Would you accept; my boys all got dayton’s so I had to rob that fool so I could have so too? How about; your mother wanted me to spend time with her, I had other chics to focus my attention on? I don’t think that would work with you, and I’m sure it won’t work with your child in the future.

In the coming weeks, I will be breaking down each Declaration and starting a movement on it. I purposely left out hip-hop because it will change when we do, and not a second before.

Interested in joining my War?

I would like to tell you it’s easy, but I can’t. It won’t be easy, because you will be judged by those who like excuses. They will pull up slavery, Rodney King, and anything else they can to keep you were you are. They will say you ain’t fly because you don’t rock Gucci. They will say your not black enough because you speak with proper vocabulary. They will say you don’t care about the plight of black people because you don’t want hand outs.

To me it’s easy to laugh at these things, but it’s not that easy for everyone. The power comes in the little successes. When you receive your report card and see A’s instead of F’s, it gets a little easier to fight. When you get that job and that white man shakes your hand and tells you he looks forward to having you as an employee, it gets a little easier to fight. When a real man or woman approaches you and you can tell and appreciate that person, the fight gets alot easier. But these are not things that happen overnight. These are things that take Sacrifice.

Start small. Find a little way to see if I’m right. Call up your cousin that’s always in trouble, and spend the next couple weekends with him or her. Take them to a museum, a play, or some other event they wouldn’t normally got to. Find their passion and entice them with it. Watch them change because they get a chance to see some new. It will be the first time they think in terms of choices, and you will have won a battle in my cause.

Encourage your child to play with the kid that sits alone in the corner. Not just for the benefit of the kid in the corner, but for the benefit of your child. Teach them to see Character in Man, not the outside showing.
Teach them we all belong, and sometimes all it takes is an introduction to spark a long lasting friendship. They will then see that there are choices. Then we could have students competing for Valedictorian, not just prom queen and king. Then you will have struck a blow to those who say change is impossible.

Allow your children to listen to Hip-hop, then make them hate it by breaking it down for them. (This is one of my Favorites) Sit down and try to have your child (say 8 and up) explain Soulja Boy to you. Seriously, ask them what that song means. And watch as they can’t answer. Then play Tupac (any song will do, even a violent one; but for the kids stick with Brenda had a Baby or Keep Your Head Up) and ask them what the song means. Just do the experiment. If you don’t have kids, use a niece or nephew. If you’re a teenager, ask your friends. You do that and watch the conversation spark. You are helping to build my arsenal with each debate.

Come up with your own experiments based on what’s going on in your community. Like I said start small. If you have a good job and fly car, go to the ghetto during the day when most of the playgrounds are filled with kids and talk to them. When they tell you nice car, say yeah it cost me four years in college, but boy is it worth it. I got a job, a house, and a nice car. It was worth it. Set up a time for them to meet you in the library or rec center and show up. Be on time, dressed properly, and show interest in them. Show them how a man operates, and maybe something you’re missing in your life will open up. I’m just saying, we all have room for improvement. But improvement brings rewards. You keep this up and you’ll be a General in my army.

If you choose to stand in my way

Go ahead a try. See that’s the difference between me and you. You see an obstacle and look for an excuse. I see an obstacle and I look for a way to tear it down. I have confidence you don’t have the stamina to fight toe to toe with me for 12 rounds. I’ll be moving forward, while your looking backwards. I’ll be gaining success, even if in small measures, and you will continue to be at the mercy of someone else. To paraphrase Specta; Don’t give me fish, give me a fishing pole, I can do the rest myself.

But I will question what do you have to gain by staying in your current position. Are the Ghettos’ getting better without my knowledge. Are politicians keeping promises made during campaigns, it’s just were to stupid to see all the changes? Why are you satisfied with the script handed to you by those that benefit from your misfortune? Are you truly satisfied with our people right now?

If in answering these questions, you still find yourself opposing my position, I’m ready. The War Is On.

Could you imagine if we win? If each one of us takes a little step and we actually push our people past drugs, aids, poverty, defeatist thinking, misogyny, materialism, violence, and negativity that keeps us poor and oppressed. Imagine schools that pay for books not metal detectors. Imagine communities that pay for playgrounds instead of jails. Imagine stores opening in black neighborhoods, where white people aren’t scared to go.

A Time For Change: Chapter 3

August 10th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

From inside the cab I called Travis and gave him Big sistas number. One call from me and he gets $1,200 and sometimes long life clients, even though in this business that could be short. If I wanted to hustle myself I could control this town. Everyone here is weak and not about business. That made doing business to damn risky.

We pulled up to the border of Lynnville projects. It must have rained when we were in the club. The night air was crisp and just on the brink of being warm. Early spring my favorite time of the year. I told the driver to pull over. I offered him the amount shown on the meter. He refused. I said okay and flipped a $20 over the front seat.

“You shouldn’t be walking out here all alone, ma’am.” He said poking his head out the drivers’ side window.

“To me, this is the safest place in the world.” I turned my back and walked away. He stayed there for a moment, then quickly pulled off when a group of local thugs got to close to the side of his cab.

I didn’t like living here. I got the money to move someplace nice, but no place nice could be as safe.

Goldie, by far the scariest of all the rats around here, was the best person to do business with. He didn’t speak to me when we weren’t talking about business. When he did want to do business he always had the money, he was always on time, and he told me I can walk safe in his hood. So I dropped the cost of his inventory. Now he supplies to most of the little rats around here, and most of the city. He never tells anyone where he gets his work, so the whole hood thinks he’s banging me. And that’s cool no one fucks with me. It works for me.

I walked down the street. It seemed to be dead tonight. I bet I’d get a delivery soon. There were no fiends, no little kids outside playing way past their bedtimes. Silence and that was worrisome the longer I walked and the quieter it seemed to get. I quickened my pace and made my way into the dirty corridor that led to my apartment.

I checked the halls, both ways, twice. Something just didn’t feel right. I opened the door and went in fast. I bolted all five locks from the inside. Took off my knock Vera Wang slingbacks, and began to move close to the couch.

He startled me as he began to move around. I knew that he was still having those bad dreams that haunted him the 2 years I’ve known him. I heard him softly murmur ‘I don’t want to be a gangster. It costs to much’.

My heart broke looking at him, remembering how alone I used to feel. Shit, used to feel. The way I have always felt. I stayed a safe distance from his swinging range and called his name sereval times raising my voice each time until he opened his eyes.

“They almost got him tonight.” He didn’t have to tell me who. I knew. Goldie had started making a lot of enemies. He had such low prices on his work, no one else could compete. “I put $135,000 in your safe. Do you mind if I crash here tonight?”

“You know you don’t have to ask. Go get in the bed we’ll talk in the morning.”

“I’ll make you pancakes.”

“I can’t wait.” I said as he sauntered off into his bedroom. He was 13 and on the fast track to taking over his father’s business. He had no fear in dangerous situations, because he had nothing to live for, but boy is he smart. I let him have unlimited access to my apartment as long as he brought good grades home. So, he did. I even had to go to the school and get him put in advanced classes so he wouldn’t be bored.

I can’t have kids so he’s the closest I’ll ever get.

Obama Playing The Race Card: And Your Surprised?

August 8th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

I know I’ve been away for a minute, but I’m back.  And thank all you guys for the messages and support.  I love it, Thank You.

Having said that, Lets get rolling.

“I know I don’t look like the guys on the Dollar Bills”  Barack Obama in front of a black crowd pulling up the race card.  If you didn’t expect it, you should have been reading my blogs.  I told you it was coming.  He is the same as Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, and the rest.  He knows we love excuses, so he gives us what we want.  Then when he gets called on it, direct the blame some where else. Are you Serious?

This is the Man you want to represent us as a whole.

What was the first thing you thought when you heard the sound clip?  Did you think he was talking about anything other than race?  Then he comes out and insults our intelligence.  I was talking about this; I was talking about that. I mean it, it gets to the point, I don’t even listen anymore.  I tune it out and cuss him out in my head.

Then I started to think.  We should take him at his word.  He doesn’t look like George Washington.  Barack Obama never fought for his country.  Barack Obama doesn’t believe it’s okay to fight for your country.  Washington had a successful business, then decided to fight.  I don’t see the resemblence.

“I have sworn upon the alter of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man” Thomas Jefferson.  Does this included pulling the race card in the middle of a campaign?  Doesn’t look like Barack Obama fits into that great quote.    But wait, even though both the British and the French were attacking American Merchants, Jefferson did everything he could to stay out of the fight.  Now that sounds like Barack Obama.

Abraham Lincoln is more like President Bush.  Look.  I don’t like what you’re doing and you need to stop.  The South said NO! Lincoln said, O.K., Let’s go. And then there was the Civil War.  If Barack Obama would’ve been president, (And I know a black man couldn’t have been President, but Obama wasn’t talking about color, right?), There would not be a United States of America.  Because sometimes you have to fight.

Alexander Hamilton died fighting in a duel.  I don’t see Barack Obama fighting over anything, so I’ll just stop there.
I’m wondering if Barack Obama is laying the frame work to be the first black face on a Dollar Bill.  I don’t believe it’s out the realm of his ego.  Maybe I’m getting a little personal now, but I can’t help it.  I know what’s coming, and if John McCain can’t stop looking like a dead man I feel bad for the state of our country.

But more than that, I feel bad for the state of our people.  If Barack Obama gets into office and raises the taxes even a little on us that are barely making it, he’ll drive us down.  Back into the base of his party, poor people.  I’ve been there, done that, and I don’t want to go back.
Don’t be surprised when the race card comes up again.  I bet in front of another black crowd. I bet it’ll be used to distract from a real issue.  Even worse, I bet it’ll work.