Barack Obama On Bill O’Reily

September 5th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

They were trying to hurt me last night. The NFL Season kicked off, Congratulations Giants. John McCain gave his Acceptance Speech at the RNC. Specta had show #103. I had No Idea the Compassion of Cindy McCain. But My Most Anticipated Moment, Barack Obama on O’Reily.

Nice Move, Obama. Choosing to go on O’Reily the Same Night as McCain gave his acceptance speech. I must admit this is the first time I’ve watch almost every speech from both Conventions. I’ve followed this election closely and this is so much Fun. Not in the sense that it’s a Joke but to see Politicians move like Chess Pieces; it’s quite entertaining.

When Senator Hillary Clinton went on O’Reily, I said if Barack Obama doesn’t go on, it would kill his creditability. Now Hate him or Love him, Bill O’Reily is the King of Cable News. I don’t always agree with him. Especially on Matters of Hip Hop. I mean he didn’t even pronounce Nas correctly. But he asks direct question and pushes for direct answers. He also sheds alot of light on corrupt Judges in this Country and mobilizes to get them out of office, and for that I continue to watch.

I held no preconceived notions on how Obama would perform. At this crucial point of the Election, I was sure Obama would be on his A game. And I was anxious to see it. And I was not disappointed.

A strong and determined Barack Obama looked eye to eye with Bill O’Reily and answered every question directly. I must give my Respect for this. This is one of the Factors that led me to support John McCain, Straight Talk.

The answers to the Questions left me wondering though. Is it a God like Complex that makes someone unable to admit they made a mistake? This has been thrown at President George Bush as a criticism. And I understand Obama would alienate his base by giving Republicans Respect for saving War in Iraq from failure. But wouldn’t that have been a great opportunity to silence the critics like me and stand up for What’s Right, even if you get some Grief from your base.

That’s a major Sticking Point for People. Do we really think Barack Obama will stand against his Party and Veto a Bill he knows is full of Earmarks because he’s in the White House? Or will he, like George Bush, refuse to go against his Base and allow wasteful spending? Should we give him the benefit of the doubt and wait until he gets in office to see or should we vote for someone who has a record of Standing Alone, even with his Party in the Majority?

I really liked something Lindsey Grahm said last night. Though Barack Obama gives Appreciation for our troops service; he refuses to give Appreciation for their Victory. This is kinda off subject but Someone close to me has this afflection; the But But Pocus. You can get them admit their arguement is flawed but they always throw in a But. Why? Admit it and move on. It’s not that Hard. I digress.

When they moved to the Subject of Iran, Barack Obama promotes more Diplomacy. I understand the Premise. I do. But they have the Oil, So they have the money. What are we going to SAY to them that’s going to stop them from doing as they please? I’m serious. At a time when we Are dependent of Foreign Oil, what set of phrases or threats can you wage at Iran that will make them listen. Saddam Hussein didn’t have half the Power of Iran and he allowed his Country to be envaded rather than having a Honest Diplomatic Relationship with the West. I wouldn’t expect anything less from Iran.

It’s not because Ahmadinejad is in Office. It’s because now that they’ve started the Process and been so vocal about it; to negotiate would be like admitting defeat. It would cause them to lose influence in the Middle East. To not win a fight is one thing but to refuse to fight in the first place is something totally different. Iran started picking the fight, they can’t turn around now. And no words are going to stop them.

Then they went to Pakistan. Now a major Democratic Point is we can’t continue to force our way into the culture of other countries. What are you saying when you Criticize Men trying to Establish Democracy without changing It’s Country’s Integrity? What do I meant by this? In American Politics, the Candidates can travel the Country campaigning, with little fear for their safety. In Afghanistan and Pakistan you can get blown up. You can get shot.

Yes, they are going to make some mistakes trying to navigate through a major change. When we formed our country we had basically a fresh slate. We were still influenced by England but we had and Ocean to dull that influence. They are in the Middle of the Conflict, with no seperation from the Extremist and Radicals. It’s like walking through a mine field; trying to hold on to National Security while implementing change to those who know only violence. Just look at some of the cities in America. We still don’t know how to get it Right. We still make Mistakes.

Now I will take Nothing from Barack Obama on his demeanor and stature. I’m glad he didn’t show the ignorance sometimes exposed by Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. I will gladly admit he has ushered in a New Age of Blacks in Politics. I will admit he’s inspired Millions. I just can’t Vote for him. At this point in time, I think we need someone that isn’t scared to Praise our Military, every chance they get. I want someone that inspires young Americans to Serve in our Armed Forces, by example. Both with their own history and with the future of their Children. I’m still voting John McCain.

In The Storm Again: Gulf Coast Braces For Gustav

September 5th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Before I write anything I have to offer An Apology.

Ray Nagin, Mayor of New Orleans, I Apologize. I was the biggest critic of how you handled Katrina. I pointed the finger straight at you when everyone else was Pointing To George Bush. I don’t Apologize For That. I do Apologize for saying you didn’t Deserve a Second Chance.

As the Gulf Coast Braces for Hurricane Gustav, I have to say What No One Else Will Say.

We Finally Learned Our Damn Lesson. The Government. Ray Nagin finally figured out he is Responsible for the People of New Orleans and if he doesn’t Enfore Evacuation; this time he might not be forgiven. And I applaud the way he stepped up the Plate. He warned New Orleans there would be no assistance if they decided to stay. Now everyone knows that there wil be assistance available to the couple of Fools that stayed, but the urgency of his tone forced A lot of People to leave.

I must also ask; Where is the adulation for the Bush Administration? I mean they caught the brunt of the Criticism from Katrina. Where is all the comments by All The Black People telling how prepared The Bush Administration Is? It’s not coming, and it shouldn’t . All the Praise should be placed on the shoulders of the Local and State Governments. That’s their job and they Are Finally Doing It.

My Black People. Thank You for heading the Warnings. Thank You for Taking Responsibility for Your Own Life. Thank You For Not Waiting To Become A Victim. Thank You For Doing Your Part. Because no matter how prepared the Government Is, You have to be Proactive. If they are two Steps Behind; Then You should Get There Four Steps Ahead Of Them.

As Hurricane Gustav grows closer to the coast, it’s not gathering the Same Speed and Direction as Katrina. It might not impact New Orleans as bad as predicted. I fear this will cause a sense of False Security. If the storms don’t hit with the same impact and the levees don’t break, Will we get the same response for Evacuation Next Time? Or will we once again doubt the force of Mother Nature; and allow ourselves to become victims of her wrath?

24 Things A Sister Should Never Apologize For

September 5th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

My Sister sent Me This List. I don’t know where it came from, so if you wrote it, Thanx.

1. Never apologize for pursuing what makes you happy. Even if you need to quit your job, transfer schools, or move across country, always do what you really want.

2. Never apologize for using proper English. Keeping it real doesn’t mean you have to speak Ebonics.

3. Never apologize for giving your best in a relationship that just didn’t work out.

4. Never apologize for being successful. Only haters want to keep you at their level.

5. Never apologize for crying. Wear waterproof mascara and express yourself.

6. Never apologize for ten pounds you need to lose. People who truly care about you will accept you as you are.

7. Never apologize for being frugal. Just because you save your money instead of blowing it on the latest fashion emergency doesn’t mean you’re cheap.

8. Don’t apologize for being a single Mom. Babies are a blessing.

9. Never apologize for treating yourself to something special. Sometimes you have to show yourself some appreciation.

10. Never apologize for leaving an abusive relationship. Your safety should always be a priority.

11. Never apologize for keeping the ring even if you did not get married.

12. Never apologize for setting high standards in a relationship. You know what you can tolerate and what simply gets on your nerves.

13. Never apologize for saying NO.

14. Never apologize for wearing a weave or braids. You bought it so it’s yours.

15. Never apologize to your new friends about old friends. There’s a reason she’s been your girl from day one.

16. Never apologize for ordering dessert or more than one dessert.

17. Never apologize for dating outside your race. Just because you found Mr. Right across the color line doesn’t mean you don’t love your brothas.

18. Never apologize for demanding respect. You are to always be treated as a queen.

19. Never apologize for not knowing how to cook. Even if you can’t burn like Grandma you know how to order good take out. (Right Girl!)

20. Never apologize for your taste in clothes. It’s your style.

21. Never apologize for changing your mind, it is your prerogative.

22. Never apologize for making a decision from your heart, even if others don’t agree. You have to live with the consequences not them.

23. Never apologize for making more money than your man, you work hard and you deserve to get paid.

24. Never apologize for being you!

Some where meant to be funny and get a chuckle but there are a few to Pay Serious Attention To. Especially Number 24. Because that’s where it all starts. You apologize when your man gets mad; like he didn’t piss you off first. You feel bad because sometimes you need to get away from your Kids. Your doubts make you feel less Like A Queen; Yet you manage to Navigate through Life.

Never Apologize For Getting Mad; Just Don’t Try to Get Even

Never Apologize For Crying; Just Don’t Make it An Everyday Occurance

Never Apologize For Your Opinion; Just Educate Yourself Before You Share

And The One That Didn’t Make The List And Belongs There

Never Apologize For Loving The Lord, For Calling His Name, For Having Absolute Faith He’ll Light Your Path.

Dear Barack Obama Supporters

September 4th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

I’m wondering when did this become about Me and You. If I’m against Obama than I’m against You too. If I don’t stand with the Black Man, then I’m some how less Black. Well I do stand with Some black Men. I’ll use one in Particualr. Michael Steele. Now if you don’t know who he is, then I will question; How Black Are You?

Michael Steele, was the first Black Person elected to Statewide Office in Maryland. Yes, he has broken down barriers too. Why No Praise for This Black Man? Is it because he is a Republican? And if so, why question my blackness instead of my Political Affiliation. Or are you trying to pull a double standard?

He has one of the Best Quotes of OUR TIME. I have to paraphrase because I can’t find the exact quote but it goes something like this. ‘We are no longer fighting to sit at the Counter, Now our fight begins to Own the Diner.”

The sad part is, We have to fight other Blacks to get it. Now, I’m going to do a little comparison for you. Please don’t come at me telling me I Hate Black People. I’m Black and you Downing me For Having An Opinion Makes You A Hater. I don’t Want you to think Like Me. I don’t Care who you Vote For, As Long As You Vote. And I refuse to handle Any Of You with Kid Gloves. If Barack Obama can take the Criticism, than so can you.

Comparison of Barack Obama and Michael Steele

Neither came from a Traditional Family. Barack Obama grew up with a Single Mother. Michael Steele was adopted as a Baby. Now, I don’t know if Barack Obama’s Family was Democratic, but Michael Steele’s Family Was. Both Men garnered strength From Their Mothers’. Both went to Decorated Schools and Earned Multiple Degrees. Both are Lawyers and both chose to go into Civil Service. Both are Exemplary Examples of the American Dream.

One more very important thing Links These Two Wonderful Black Men. They both built Character through Struggle. Barack Obama’s family wasn’t rich. He had to work to Get into College. He had to take out Loans to Finish Law School. He even made a point of Bringing it Up in the Beginning of His Campaign. How he and Michelle Obama were still paying off their student loans.

Michael Steele lost his Father when he was young, but his Mother refused to Go on Welfare. Instead, she took a Minimum Wage job to support Michael and his Sister. He was the first in his Family to Go To College. Now I’m not sure if he acquired alot of debt in this Pursuit, because he doesn’t talk about it. But I’m willing to wager he did.

This is were the differences come in. See Barack Obama had to struggle to get where he is. And I give him all the credit in the World for doing So. It’s not easy tearing down color lines. It’s not easy to change the face of History. But I question; Could he have done it without the struggle? Would he stand so firmly on his Beliefs if he didn’t have to fight for them?

Michael Steele became a Republican because of the Lessons he learned from His Mothers’ Actions. When times got tough she didn’t look to the Government to take care of her house hold. She went to work and did the things neccessary for her children. I watch my sister and her three Kids and I know that this is no easy task. I’m sure it was no easier for Barack Obama and his Family. But Barack Obama made it.

Then he turns around and tells You; I’m going to do it for You. I’m going to make sure you go to College. I’m going to make sure you have healthcare. I’m going to make sure you get everything You deserve. When did Barack Obama become my Mother or My Father? When did I tell him he had more power over My household than I do?

My daughter is going to College and it won’t be because the Government said she can. It will be because I sacrifice to make it happen. It will be because I demand it of her. And I have no doubt I will struggle, Because I’m struggling Now. But I also have no doubt my daughter will benefit from seeing How Much Her Mother and Father Struggle For Her. Her Father and I will be her Rock. The same as Michelle Obama’s Father was Hers’. Why try to take that away? Why not let Black Parents be the Hero to Black Kids?

And more than that, Why take More From the People Who Followed the Same Path and Made It. How can you say to someone that’s spent Years trying to build a successful business; Now You Have To Pay For Those Who Don’t Save. Now You Have To Pay For Those Who Didn’t Compete. Now You Have To Pay For Those Who Don’t Sacrifice.

Now let me Pre-empt the attack. All of Us are not Lazy and We Try and Things Are Still Hard. Amen. I know. But guess what. Not all of Us think that the Governments Fault. I have been knocked down more times than I can count and never once did I look at the Government to Fix my Situation. Now in the case of Jobs. Yes, the government plays a role in the Number of Jobs Available. But So Do You. If you can’t find a Job, start your own business. Then you not only have a Job but you can help other people get a Job. All with NO GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE. Just from the Sweat off Your Brow.

I’m trying to run my own Business. I’m beginning to realize it’s harder than I thought. I’m starting to realize that when you go it alone, shit gets tough. But I have some really talented people in my Family. I’ve asked them to help me out. But none of them thinks they have anything to share with the world. I have a Brother that does Amazing Art but doesn’t want to start a T-Shirt Line or a Comic Strip. He wants to open a Tattoo Parlor.

So I say, “Let’s come up with some shirts. Get them on the Web and make some money. Then you can open your own Tattoo Parlor. ” I’m still waiting on a response. So I question, When I become Successful, should I have to turn around and pay for his College, Healthcare, or anything else. He has talent, opportunity, and someone with a little knowledge of the Web by his side. If he chooses not to access any of these, is it the Governments Fault or the Governments’ Responsibility to take care of him?

My Favorite Lil Cousin is A Hair Styling Genius. Every time I see her I want to snatch the style right off her head. Her Mother Owns her own Beauty Salon in Richmond Va. But in order to do the upgrades she wants, her mother works another Job. Her only request of my favorite Cousin is that she takes care of the Shop when She’s at her other Job.

But my Favorite Cousin is so obsessed with the Streets, she doesn’t take any Responsibility. All her friends say, “I wish my Mother was Like Yours. I Wish My Mother Had A Business She Wanted Me To Help Her Run.” But my Cousin sees dollar signs. She’s attracted to popping New Tags off Of Clothes. Pulling the Latest Shoes out a Nike Box. Being in All the Right Clubs at the Right Time. And when she can’t get these things on her own, she attaches herself to a No Good Nigga.

And she is a Fly Diva, so there isn’t a shortage of Niggas willing to step in a buy her what she wants. But her Mother is Now Feed Up. She has struggled for her Children and this is How My Fav Cousin Repays Her. Cussing her out. Not showing up when she’s supposed to. Letting important dates pass with completeing simple tasks.

So when Her Mothers’ business becomes Real Successful, why should she have to turn around and pay for My Favorite Cousins’ College, Healthcare, or anything else? She’s spent years paying for these things and My Favorite Cousin doesn’t appreciate any of it. Instead she Cusses and Fusses because her Mother expects something from Her.

These are the People and Situations I know. Does it mean I don’t love My Brother or My Cousin? No. I Love Them to Death, but I’m Not Responsible for the Decisions’ they make. Nor is Bush, Obama, McCain, Palin, Biden, Pelosi, Reid, Cheney or any one else in Government. And when they run out of Options, It’s None of the Aboves Fault either.

But it becomes an Issue when Obama, Biden, Pelosi, and Reid, say it’s Bush, McCain, Palin, Cheney that have stopped you from excelling. Because Now They Have Justification For Their Inaction. Now they can feel justified pointing the Finger elsewhere. Where is the benefit in that?

This is just a little letter to tell you where I’m coming From. And no Matter Your Color, I’m sure you know the people I’m talking about. The one’s that went to College and dropped out because it was to hard; Never equating all the time they spent partying with the time they could have been studying. The one’s who have watched their Mothers’ and Father break their backs for the little they had and complain it’s not enough. The one’s that take No Risk but want all the Rewards.

There are Million’s of Us Black Folk Doing It. We got Good Jobs, Great Educations, Nice Homes, Fly Cars, but if you have all these things and Never Opened a College Fund for Your Child, why should the Government Pay For It? Why should the Son’s and Daughter’s of Mother’s and Father’s that Worked For Everything, have any excuse to Blame Someone Else for their Shortcomings? And why should I have to Vote For A Black Man, when all the research I do leads me to believe he’s not What This Country Needs?

Another Black Face in a High Place telling me I don’t have to work for my Child’s future. Telling Me I Can’t Do What His Mother Did, Without his help. Telling My Husband he can’t do what His Wife’s Father Did, without his help. Telling me to wait until he gets in Office For My Life to Get Better. I don’t wait for Politicians. I make my Life Better or Worse depending on My Decision.

And you can wait if you want. You can continue to spend and not save for an Emergency. You can continue to invest in Nike, Gucci and Prada or you can choose to invest in yourself. You can continue to Vote Color and Not Principal. But I Place This Bet. Four Years Into a Barack Obama administration, you will still be waiting. Because if he makes all your dreams come true and You Actually start to Garner Success, You are going to want the Government to stay the Hell out of Your Pocket.

And For all of you who say I’m not Down with the Black Community because I continue to talk about what could be and Not What Is, I have a Special Treat For You. Don’t Blame Me, He Said It.

Sincerely Yours
Star
P.S. I’d like to thank Senator Barack Obama for Not Questioning my Blackness because I have differing opinions. It takes a strong Person to disagree with out resulting to Name Calling.

Mommy, She’s A Girl! Sarah Palin Speaks At The Republican National Convention

September 4th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Last Night was one of the Greatest Nights I’ve ever had. And No it’s not because of the Wonderful Speech given by Sarah Palin. Last night my Daughter sat and watched the Convention with me. Now, my daughter is not the type to watch the News. She covers her ears and sings over the words. “That’s Not For Little Kids, Mommy.” I know it’s just her way of trying to get me to turn the channel.

I’ve been a little laxed on her the Last Few days; She’s having Surgery. So last night I let her stay up with me. We made paper pocketbooks and Necklaces between the Speeches. When Rudy Guliani spoke, I was cheering. So she started to cheer. I turned the T.V. off for a second and had a little conversation with my child.

I told her not to cheer for Anyone just because Mommy cheers. That’s what Followers Do. I want her to be a leader. Even if that Means going against Mommy’s belief. I told her how important it was to think for herself. She nodded her head, changed the subject, and we were back to making Paper Dolls.

Sarah Palin gets annouced and I tell her we have to stop. It’s very important that Mommy watches this speech. So, she climbs on top of me, lays down, and begins watching with me. When Sarah Palin walked out, her head shot up. “Mommy, She’s a Girl. Can a Girl Be PRESIDENT?”

I looked her dead in her eyes and said “YES, A Girl Can Be President. And if anyone tells you other wise, you tell them WATCH ME.” This little girl has told me a MILLION and ONE times she wants to be a Veterinarian. And I have no problem with that. But I would love to see her in Public Office. So this was amazing to me; She was now actually thinking about becoming President.

And if that wasn’t enough. She turns to me and says “All I have to Do is Work Hard, Think for Myself, and have compassion for People and I can Be President?” This is a 3 year old girl. Shocking her mother with every single word out of her mouth. I dropped to my Knees in front of her and hugged her as hard as I could.

Luckily for Me, she was so tired she fell out about ten minutes Later and I was able to catch most of Sarah Palin’s Speech. What’s the difference between a Hockey Mom and a Pitt bull? Lipstick. Hah. That was more than a joke to me. It really tells of how Us Mother’s feel about our Children. We are their champions and biggest advocates. We have to build them up when they get knocked down. We have to encourage them when they fell unworthy or Scared. We have to fight the battles their little hands can’t.

But More Than That, the Pittbulls get rewarded. We see our children make mistakes, but handle them with the same Stiff Spine they see In Us. We see our children falter and stand back up; like they’ve seen Us do a Million times. Or even better, we see our kids learning things our Parents Never Taught Us. So, even though I doubt my daughter will ever play hockey; I will be a Pittbull Basketball Mom, or a Pittbull Tennis Mom, or what ever she decides, I will be her Pittbull.

Does this Mean I can’t have a Career of my own? Or does it mean I should continue to seek my goals; so she can see in Me all that she wants to be? It pisses me Off To NO END, to hear the critism waged at this Woman. But I think we are leaving out a very important issue. It matters if the Media questions Men the same as Women. But isn’t it insulting to Single Father’s to dismiss their ability to play the Major Role in the Family.

Not only can they bring home the Bacon, but there are alot of Men that Cook it too. There are alot of Men that make the Sacrifice; not only for their Children, but for their wives. The women who have decided to Love them Forever and In return only expect they are in it together. So when her Star Rises; He is Happy For Her. He is not asking, “Well what about Me?” He straps on his Apron, packs the lunches, and kisses his Wife on her way out the door. Does this Make Him Less Than A Man? Or Does this Make Him One Hell Of A Man?

I’ll post another article on the content of the Speech but first I had to share this thought. I have a Man that pushes Me forward. He wants me to live up to All of my Potential. And when the day comes that my Career takes more of my time, I have no doubt that he will step in and do what any Great Man would do. Take Care of His Child. And Everyman that has his Woman’s back, is all Right By Me. And Every Woman that has a Man that Has Her Back; Is a Very Lucky Woman.

A Personal Story Of Forgiveness

September 3rd, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

I must admit I thought this blog was going to be a way to get some of my ideas out into the world. I watch the News like a Maniac. I spend so much time yelling at the T.V., that I was glad when I finally found an Outlet. But something rather unexpected has happened through this Process. I’ve begin to think More about the things going on inside of me.

Yesterday, I found out my daughter will be having surgery on her eyes. It’s an one hour precedure and she can come home the same day. But that never stops a Mother from worrying if something can go wrong. I spent the majority of Yesterday telling my Daughter how much I love her.

As she told me to leave her alone, I had to change my focus. So I started to look at myself; Again. Now I was raised by a Wonderful Woman. Mrs. Susie. She was my Angel. She had two kids of her own, with no man, and she took me in a raised me as one of her own.

I didn’t look like the other kids. I didn’t think like them but I never felt out of place. I never knew this wasn’t my real family. Then things changed and I had to move with My Father. I loved my Dad and he spoiled me Rotten. But he had found a Wife and she didn’t particulary like how much attention my Father paid Me.

Then, on top of that, I got a chance to meet my Biological Mother. Well not really meet, but on my 13th birthday my BIO called and asked if I wanted to move with her. Then she told me we could take my father for child support once I moved. I hung up the phone.

I went and told my MOM, Ms. Susie, about the Phone Call From My Bio. My Mother told me to forgive her because it wasn’t all her fault. See, my Bio was a College Graduate. She taught Elementary School in Richmond Va. Then one day she went out, someone slipped something into her drink, she came home read the bible from front to back, and then she lost her Mind.

My Mother told me “One day you are going to have to let go of your Pain and Anger and Forgive.” She passed away the day I found out I was Pregnant with My Daughter. I’m not the Forgive and Forget type. I learned early that if someone stabs you in the back once, you are a fool not to expect it again. That’s how I survived growing up. Putting people in spaces and leaving them there.

I’m close with my Bio’s Family, and now I find myself spending more time around Bio. I’ve come to realize; That Bitch Is Crazy. She talks to herself. She would rather live outside in the shed with the fleas and ticks instead of the House. She can’t bring herself to look me directly in My eye.

So Yesterday, As I was thinking about my daughter. I decided to Call and Check on Bio. I have never called to talk to her before. Never. But for some reason, I picked up the phone and dialed. She answered the phone, with her distant unattached tone, and I started to regret calling. When I told her who it was, her spirits lifted. I could hear it. And I felt it, inside me.

Yesterday, for no reason in Particular, I choose to forgive My Bio. Not only did I make the decision, I felt really good about it. Like my Mom was looking down on Me and was smiling and my heart felt light. My life wasn’t the easiest, but it could have been worse. I didn’t have my Bio Family growing up, but I had one hell of a Family in it’s place. What do I really have to be mad about?

I’ve held on to so much. She made me a crack baby. I’ve had to deal with this sickness and that sickness because of the decisions she made, but I’m alive and kicking. She Kept my older sister but sent me Away. My sister just recently Got off Drugs and started to get her Life back together. That could have been ME, if my Father had given me to My Mom. She never called to say Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, or just to say I’m thinking about you.

Instead, I should have been happy that I made it out. I should have been happy I was given to a Mother that made Education Important. I should have been happy that I still had a Mother on this Planet even though the Woman that Raised me was no longer here. I learned Forgiveness Today. Real Forgiveness. Not when you can tolerate someone even though you are cussing them out in you head.

Forgiveness Frees some space In Your Mind, In Your Heart, And In Your Soul. So, now I look up at the SKY and tell my Mother, Thank You. She’s propably in Heaven saying “It’s about Damned Time, Now You Can Get Your Blessings. Now instead of Looking Back, You can Look Towards Your Future.”

I Love this blog. If you read some of the things I write and you disagree; Fine. But if you take nothing else with you, remember this; You can stop the Lord from sending you Blessings. You can be so wrapped up in what was; that you forget to think about what can be. Find a way to Forgive someone that’s wronged you. Find a way to let go of the things that force you to stop looking inside yourself. Start looking for some Peace in Your Life and you might find you have more Good than you realized.

Pro-Life + Pro-War = Oxymoron

September 2nd, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

This is just to funny. Now I’m not knocking the dude that says this. He writes to me every so often accusing me of not doing my research. Then he throws a bunch of facts at me, as if I need his assistance in Research. I like it though, because ususally those that disapprove of my writings call me names instead of having a Civil Disagreement.

Having said that. How can you believe in War and still be Pro-Life? (Full Discrestion; I’m Pro choice.)

This is like equating an Unborn baby to Radicals. How can you in good conscience compare the two. If you want a real comparison, then Check out the Article; B.M.W. + K.K.K. + M.S.B. = A Common Thread.

War has been present since the beginning of Life. I’m sure even the Dinosaur’s fought over Territory. It’s a weakness in Man to want to control Everything. And as long as Humans run this Planet, I have a sneaky suspicion there will be War.

Does this mean we can’t Promote Life? Or is the Unborn Baby what most of Us are willing to fight for. The future of our Country. The Future of our Family. The Future of our beliefs and ideals. Yes, we want babies to continue to be born, but we have to protect the Future for them. We have to fight for them to have the same or better than we had.

To think the two don’t collide , I find absurd. Just Ask a Jewish Person if being Pro-Life means you have to be against War. As the Germans killed Mothers, Fathers, and Babies Alike. What if America believed Not Fighting was more important than Saving those Unborn. The world could have lost an Entire Segiment of it’s Population. The world could have lost an Entire section of it’s Culture. Not to mention the Woman that were saved and had babies.

Without War this Discussion would be Null and void. Without War there would be no United States of America! Without war, I would still be a slave and my daughter would follow in my footsteps. Because those who are unwilling to fight, will be conquered by those who have Weapons. And Born or Unborn, those with weapons really don’t care.

I’m An American; I Just Happen To Be Black

September 1st, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Check out the Smokey Robinson Spoken Word On My Side Bar: Then Come Back.

I listen to this Every Day. Just to Know that I’m Not Alone. Now being the 5’9 120lbs. Light Skinned Girl, I’m never Black Enough. See I think For Myself. I’m Not Voting For Obama; So I get hate mail telling me to bleach my skin. I got a Stomach Disorder. I’m skinny; So they tell me I need to Eat So I Can Get An Ass. I’m self-aware. I Preach Personal Responsiblity; So I obviously ignore that there is Real Racism in This Country.

See I decided a long time ago to stop trying to be black. I used to think that there was really something wrong with me because I didn’t think like the people around me. Where they looked for excuses; I looked for Opportunity. When they looked For Someone To Blame; I looked for the Lessons to be learned. When they question my devotion to Education; I stood my ground.

But As Life Inevitably does, you get hit with a dose of Reality. Yes I was looking for Opportunities but I was looking for Black Opportunities. Finding me a Drug Dealer with Money to Spend. Having my choice of Which Car I wanted to Drive by talking to the right Dude in a Crew. Always being in right place at the right time to Pull off A Little Hustle.

Yes I was looking For Lessons To Be Learned. But I was Looking For Black Lessons. How to get in and out of someones’ else’s hood unnoticed. How to talk the Police Out Of Arresting You. How to get away with Bad Shit without anyone knowing. How to make a Dollar out of 15 cents with no real effort.

I was looking for that Black Education. You know, just make it out of High School and You’re Good. As long as You Get Your High School Diploma, You’re doing better than alot of them out here. You Finished School, why would you go to College?

It wasn’t until I had my daughter that I realized; I needed to stop chasing those Black Dreams and Start Making Some American Dreams. But that brings Internal Conflict. Were they right all along? Am I Just Not Black Enough?

My Answer to That! Fuck You. I’m An American; I Just Happen To Be Black!

See my blackness doesn’t lie in your opinion or perception of me. Nor do I care if I Live up to What You Think A Real Black Person Should Be. I’m going to do the Real Black Thing, I’m Going To Do Me. I’m going back to school; but my IPOd will still play Tupac and Jay-Z. I’m growing my own business; but I’ll still Catch “The Family That Preys” by Tyler Perry the very first day. I’m not voting for Obama; but I hope Condi can stay,for whom ever makes their way into the white house.

Starting to Rhyme a Little. But to get serious. Was Martin Luther King Jr. fighting for our Rights to be An American? Of Course. He wasn’t fighting to have Us All Sent Back To Africa. When will we claim our Place as Americans? Not the Victims of America.

I’m proud to be Black. I Love the Swagger of Our People. I Love the Resilliance of Our People. I Love the Flo, the Groove, the Passion of Our People. The Question is Do You? If you say you do, Then The Time Is Now. Make the Black Dream and the American Dream One in the Same.

It’s not Okay to be just getting by; unless you’re on a path to a goal. It’s not O.K. to accept anything less than your whole slice of the American Pie. Not just the piece The Government Decides To Give You. But all the yummy Crust you have to Work To Get.

We don’t have to change who we are to Acheive this Goal. But we do Have To Do Our Part. We Have To Start Taking Ourselves Seriously. We love to see Grafitti but will you buy a Painting to make the ArtForm Legitimate. We love Breaking and Popping but will you go see a play that features the Dancers. We Run the Music Charts but there are few songs that will go down in History. When will we make our Culture Legitimate; Not Commercial?

Let Me Go Before I Say To Much!

I Can Officially Say “I’m Voting For John McCain”; Annoucences V.P. Pick Sarah Palin

August 29th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Most of you will think it’s funny that I would say that. My writings would lead you to believe I planned on voting For McCain all along. But I was struggling with that decision. I would listen to Barack Obama talk and I loved the topics. Then I started to realized his Platform didn’t stand to Those Ideals. I would Love to Vote For A Black Man. I Have Pleaded With Barack Obama to tell me something Real.

Instead he tells his remarkable story. I don’t think his Mother Paid for His College. He did. And with that he built the character to Become The First Black Man to get the Presidential Nomination From Any Party. A wonderful Accomplishment built on his own hard work. That’s Wonderful, but it’s not enough. Because then you champion for College For Everyone when drop out rates in high schools of All Colors Are Rising. Fix Public Schools or give vouchers for the Parents who really want better for their children and let them compete for Scholarships. Just as you had to Compete For The Right To Be Our Next President.

I Digress.

John McCain announced his Vice President Nomination, Sarah Palin; Governor of Alaska. I wanted it to be Condi Rice. If it had been Romney or Pawlenty, then I would have still been on the Fence. I would have waited until After the Debates to Make My Final Decision.

When I heard the Announcement, I Froze. Barack Obama took the safe easy choice, that went against everything he was campaigning Against. Joe Biden has been in office just as long as McCain. An Average Washington Politician. And I knew McCain would do the Same. Have a Nice Safe Pick. No Way. The Maverick Picks A Maverick; How befitting?

Before John McCain even made the announcement, Barack Obama’s camp put out a Response.

“Today, John McCain put the former mayor of a town of 9,000 with zero foreign policy experience a heartbeat away from the presidency. Governor Palin shares John McCain’s commitment to overturning Roe v. Wade, the agenda of Big Oil and continuing George Bush’s failed economic policies — that’s not the change we need, it’s just more of the same.”

They neglect to mention she is the Governor of Alaska. They even take a Shot At Small Town America lessening the importance of those that govern them. Then it hit me. They can’t say anything Nice About Sarah Palin because that would be like smacking Hillary Clinton right Across The Face. Hah! I Love Politics.

Now I Know This Is About Politics. But there were lots of other Women John McCain could have chosen. The former C.E.O. of Xerox, Anne Mulcahy has been out Campaigning For John McCain. So I’m like let’s hear McCain’s Hillary Clinton UpperCut Speak.

She is Celebrating her 20th Anniversary with her Husband, Today. He is a Commerical Worker at a Oil Plant in Alaska. He’s even a Union Member. They have 5 children. The Youngest, Trig, was born in April with Down Syndrome. The oldest is being shipped to Iraqi on Sept. 11th. And three girls in the Middle.

She started As a Hockey Mom, Joined the PTA, Became Mayor, Ran for Governor Lost, served On Energy Commision, Ran Against Incumbent Republican, Won, and then fought against the Corruption in her Own Party. Even put Democrats and Independents in her Cabinet. Ever hear of The Bridge To No Were. The Billion Dollar Project in Alaska. She turned down the Federal Government Funds Associated with The Project. She said if want to Build A Bridge, We’ll Build It Ourselves. With Five Kids And A Good Marriage.

John McCain didn’t just pick A Woman. He picked the Woman. To See her Walk out on that stage with Her Family, Looking Fierce For A Woman who has 5 kids; One Born in April, then to hear her Speech. I Bet Hillary Clinton is Not Going To Vote For Barack Obama. She hopes McCain Wins So she Can Run in 2012. Think About It. John McCain is So Old he decides not to run for Re-Election. Sarah Palin vs Hillary Clinton. Two Women Running For President 2012. Remember I Predicted it.

With All That Said. Sarah Palin, Knocked Me Off The Fence. The simple Fact Her Son Is Going To Iraq made me want her to be a poised speaker. I have One Daughter and I go Nuts Sometimes, I can’t imagine 5. And to do it All and Still Serve the Public. I’m getting So Excited About This Campaign. Oh! In All Of This She Has the Highest Approval Rating Amongst Governors in the United States, >80%. And I live in Virginia and Tim Kaine is in my low 20’s.

And the Over All Brilliance of McCain’s Strategy to Steal the Spotlight From Barack Obama’s bounce off His DNC Speech, finally makes me believe John McCain cares about winning this election. If he had some boring safe pick, I would basically have ceded the Race to Obama. Listened Along, posting an An Article or Two but not really being excited. Now I want to see the Joe Biden and Sarah Palin Debates. I want to see this election play out.

o Uninspired: Barack Obama at The Democratic National Convention

August 29th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Eight Is Enough

As I watched the Economic Report and learned the our Economy is continuing to Grow. By over 3% this year. New home sales are on the rise. Unemployment is Down. Consumer Spending is also up. So with all that said, I expected a more uplifting speech from Barack Obama.

From the Beginning, Obama has said he is not the Average Politician. His whole campaign is centered around Change and Hope. But his speech at the Democratic Convention, Left me Little Hope He Will Bring that Change.

The Major Problem

I only had One Major Problem With Barack Obama’s Speech. He started sounding like he was only running as A Democrat because he’s black. What do I mean by that? Most Black People are Conservative, yet we continue to Vote for the Democrats because History has told Us it’s the right thing to do. Barack Obama sounded like a conservative though he votes like a liberal.

We should be able to have Guns without AK 47’s being on the street. We should be able to Agree we need to cut down on the Number of Abortions in this Country. Same Sex Couples should have the same rights as Married Couples. A mother should not be seperated from her Child because of Illegal Immigration.

We should be able to Disagree and still be cordial, but Barack Obama is asking more of Us Than That. He is asking us to Put Him in Office with a Democratic Controlled Congress; And there might be a change on the Supreme Court. Now most people I talk to don’t understand what that means.

They don’t understand that if Barack Obama becomes President and One Justice of the Supreme Court were to leave, then the entire Government will be run by the Same Party. If you think George Bush is Bad, wait Until You See Congress finally starting to pass Bills.

Abortion is Legal; No Matter How Far Along You Are.

Now Barack Obama has a great Relationship with Planned Parenthood. He believes they do wonderful work in our Communities and said he will Continue to Give Them Government Funds. While in secret, Planned Parenthood was excepting donations for Abortions targeted at Minority Families. In other words, we should work towards less Abortions, just not in the Black and Spanish Communities. Please Pay Attention.

No Felonies; And You Still Can’t Have A Gun

Recently, A Washington D.C. Man went before the Supreme Court to Argue for his right to Bare Arms. D.C. had one of the strictest Gun Laws in America. You were not allowed to have a Hand Gun and any other Gun you owned had to be dismantled and stored in a different location than Bullets. Early in the Campaign Barack Obama said he agreed with the Gun Laws in Washington D.C., then when the Court came out with the decision to strike down the law, he agreed with that too. Majority of those AK 47’s aren’t legally owned Guns, so if the Average Citizen loses His Right to Bear Arms, the only ones with the Guns are Criminals and the Government.

If Illegals bring Their Families; They Should All Stay

When did we become a Nation that ignores our own Laws? And when this transition took place, why did it not apply to Black Men. This is my Issue with Illegal Immigration. Now they say we’ve lost to many jobs to Out Sourcing and in the same breath want to give immunity to Illegals because we need the workers; which one is it? If we need workers and you’re willing to forgive breaking the law to get them, then why not let out Non Violent Offenders from our Jails. Why not give immunity to Actual Americans? The main reason, they broke the law and have to serve their time. Well every single Illegal Immigrant that crossed the American Boarder should be deported because they broke the law. If you have so much compassion for kids separated from their Parents, then start with the little black boy that never Got to See His Father, except through a Cell.

Is it Marriage; Or is It a Civil Union

I don’t care if You’re Gay. I don’t care if you’re Gay and you want to adopt. I don’t care if You’re Gay and Want to have the same rights as everyone else. You get my support on that. Go ahead and adopt. There are too many kids out there with no one to take care of them. Go ahead and love another Person with Your Heart and Soul, to much of that is missing in the World Today. Fight for your right to visit your Companion in the Hospital, the courtroom, or on a Tax Form, but it still won’t be a Marriage. Not because you don’t mean as much or deserve the same rights, it’s because your Union doesn’t fit the definition of Marriage. Fight for an identity for yourself and I’ll stand beside you, but please don’t tell me I have to change my understanding because of your life style. How fair is that to me?

The Formula for Disaster

A Liberal Congress passing bills and accepting Judges. A liberal President signing those bills into law and placing those Judges in Key Positions. A Liberal Supreme Court judging on their own personal belief (Look at California if you want to see the destruction possible by Liberal Judges) instead of the Constitution.

That’s what I got from the DNC Last Night and it scares the Hell Out Of ME. I watched some of the commentary After the Speech. They swooned over the Greatness of Obama’s speech. He lifted his voice in authority a couple times, but he stumbled on basic words. He came on excited to Accept the Democratic Nomination, then turned into Just Another Politician. Spouting the same speech he’s used time and time Again.