Playing it Safe: Michelle Obama At the Democratic National Convention

August 26th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

I’m on East Coast time and have a little girl to chase around all day, so I missed Michelle Obama’s Speech last night. I watched the convention all day yesterday just waiting to hear from Michelle Obama.

They say she is completely on Board with the Campaign. She was willing to get a make over, practice her Public Speaking More; basically anything that would help her husband get elected. I laughed because I could just see this being a disaster.

When she was being herself, America is down right mean, and She just found Pride in Her Country since her Husband started Running and Winning. But in this truly sincere, well scripted, and practiced speech, we will see the Real Michelle Obama.

Got up this morning, Found the Video and The Words and Now it’s time to Go To Work.

The first part on the speech focuses on her Brother. Nice Words. No Complaints; Let’s move on.

“And he’s been there for me every step of the way since that clear February day 19 months ago, when – with little more than our faith in each other and a hunger for change – we joined my husband, Barack Obama, on the improbable journey that’s brought us to this moment.” Full text

Little more than each other. Yeah, right. After Barack Obama’s Speech at the DNC for John Kerry, you had a lot more than just each other. You had the extreme left of the Democratic Party pushing for An Obama Nomination. They had a candidate that could say he was against the War from the Beginning. And that made him a Dream to the Bring Our Troops Home People.

Not to mention, the simple color of Barack Obama’s Skin got him a couple votes. There are people that have supported Hillary Clinton since Bill’s Presidential Days; that turned their backs to vote black. These are people that have worked with Senator Clinton to get actual Legislation passed, have never worked with Barack Obama, but will say that he is more qualified. You can’t tell me that Hillary Clinton is that inept.

Michelle Obama then starts to tell of her Father. How he got up everyday and went to work, even after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. As he got sicker, he had to get up earlier to get ready for work. It didn’t stop him, though his paced was slowed.

He wanted something for his children, so he worked for it. Remarkable Story. Hey, Tell that Story more than once. Tell People that Shit Happens, but you have a choice on what to do Next. You could lose your home and complain that it’s all the Government fault or you can fix your credit, save for a down payment, and this time read the entire Loan Application. And if you don’t understand something, Ask. That’s your choice.

Her father could have said. “I’ve worked for enough years, the President should assign money to my family so I don’t have to work so Hard. I shouldn’t have to save to send my Children to College. I shouldn’t have to work for my Children to have Health Care.”

But if he said All That, “Would he still be Michelle Obama’s Rock? Would she have been able to recognize the qualities she loves so much in Barack Obama? Or could she have ended up as another statistic? Poor, black, and stuck in the same place.

It’s in the struggle. Character is built in Struggle. Confidence is built through Struggle. Success is the by product of Struggle. Why would you want to take that away? To give people more of a reason to feel entitled, and then when the programs stop; the people are left with no way to take care of themselves because they have never struggled.

Give me a enlightened story of a Man with No Struggle. The greatest People have stories fill with pain and heartache. Why? Because that made them strong enough to with stand storms and still persevere. It’s not easy to stand when you feel the entire world is falling around you, unless you’ve been there before and you know it’s going to be okay. Don’t try to give so much to your kids, that you forget to give them what you had.

“And you know, what struck me when I first met Barack was that even though he had this funny name, even though he’d grown up all the way across the continent in Hawaii, his family was so much like mine.”

Listen up People. This Black Man was raised with a white Family and they still had the same values. Is it Possible that White People Struggle Too? This is not a Knock on Either Obama. This is a little shot out to the Racist of our Communities. The ones that think Life would be Great, If they had been born White. White People Struggle too.

Life is not handed to them on a silver Platter. There are White Families where the Father walks out and doesn’t play a Role in his Kids Life. There are white Families that have lost their homes. There are White Families that don’t have Food to Feed their Kids. Stop using excuses. Especially if they are completely Baseless.

“…to know that the only limit to the height of your achievements is the reach of your dreams and your willingness to work for them.”

Where is the Part about the Government Financing your Dreams? Isn’t that why you want to raise the Taxes on the Rich? You mean I can work for it, without Government Assistance, and still make it? No Way. Doesn’t that go against the entire Barack Obama Campaign. He doesn’t say, “Study more in High School so you can get a Scholarship to College. He says “I’ll give everyone the ability to go to College. Why?

So they can be rushed out by Professors, so the next group can come in. So colleges can stop caring about entrance scores and start thinking about how much money they’ll be getting from the Government. So we have a large group of Citizens with Degrees, but none with pride in the Accomplishment.

“And he urged us to believe in ourselves – to find the strength within ourselves to strive for the world as it should be. And isn’t that the great American story?”

I’m going to be here all day. To believe in Ourselves. That’s Funny. If we believed in Ourselves we would leave towns crippled by No Economic Growth. If we didn’t leave, we would hold the local Public Office Accountable. Not Continue to Re-Elect those that do nothing to solve the Problem.

Black Democrats govern most Black districts. We are a diverse people, all with different beliefs, values, and economic situations. How is it possible the 97% of us all believe in Barack Obama? I don’t really do statistics, but I’m sure the chances aren’t good. The only places were anyone gets that kind of support is Countries were it’s not wise to step outside the box.

So is this the Position we’re in now. If I actually believe in myself enough to know I don’t agree with Obama positions, that makes me less black. I’m a trader, an outsider, a disgrace to my own people; because I follow Obama’s advise. Because I believe the American Dream shouldn’t stop when you reach Success. Because I believe if I earn $5 million, the Government shouldn’t take $1.25 million or more. To me, that’s like putting a cap on your Success; Don’t let our company grow to fast, or we’ll be in the High Tax Bracket with little chance for more expansion.

Corporations cost money. I plan on building one. I think about things like that. When I get there, let me keep my money. I got investment ideas to help the economy, let me spend my money as I see fit. I think I’d do more for the community opening businesses, than giving more money to Social Programs. That’s how much I believe in Myself.

“The young people across America serving our communities – teaching children, cleaning up neighborhoods, caring for the least among us each and every day.”

Little jab at those who believe you should only take care of yourself. If you plan on voting for the Obamas’, you should know they expect you to lend a hand to your fellow man. Your Hero is giving you a glimpse inside the change he’s bringing. What’s up?

“It was strong enough to bring hope to those neighborhoods in Chicago.”

I’m just wandering. Kanye West is from Chicago. Barack Obama was a Illinois Senator. Kanye came out with a song talking about the Violence in Chicago. Are you seeing where I’m going. Kanye West is a proud Barack Obama Supporter.

I’m just saying. If the Senator of My State was running for President, I would question how 30 people could be killed in One Weekend in my town. I would be wondering why didn’t you bring this change you talk so much about to the community that gave you a start. Yes you fought for this, and yes you campaigned for that, but where are the changes? We are still getting slaughtered in the Streets?

Where is the Barack Obama Doesn’t Care About Black People Speech?

All in All, I think Michelle Obama has adopted her Husband’s style beautifully. She says everything People want to hear, with little actual substance. See gives messages of Hope, but not self reliance. She gives a Great Family Message, but doesn’t advocate the path that got her there.

There were some really Great Things she said.

“All of us driven by a simple belief that the world as it is just won’t do – that we have an obligation to fight for the world as it should be.” Declaration to Fight

But each of us also comes here tonight by way of our own improbable journey. Expect Problems

Instead of heading to Wall Street, Barack had gone to work in neighborhoods devastated when steel plants shut down, and jobs dried up. Starts with Me

The world as it is” and “The world as it should be.” And he said that all too often, we accept the distance between the two, and settle for the world as it is – even when it doesn’t reflect our values and aspirations. Equal Opportunity

I stand here today at the crosscurrents of that history – knowing that my piece of the American Dream is a blessing hard won by those who came before me. All of them driven by the same conviction that drove my dad to get up an hour early each day to painstakingly dress himself for work. The same conviction that drives the men and women I’ve met all across this country: It’s Our Turn

B.M.W + K.K.K + M.S.B. = A COMMON THREAD

August 25th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

If you read this and nit pick and the little points; then you’re missing the big picture.

I love the History Channel and during a break from watch the Democratic Convention I caught an Episode of The Ku Klux Klan; A Secret History. It got me to thinking and this is what I came up with.

The Factions

B.M.W.- Bitching, Moaning and Whining

If you read my articles before, you know who I’m referring to. If not, then let me enlighten you. These are the black people that complain about everything. The Government stops me from doing this, my circumstances stop me from doing that, and the street raised me to be who I am.

K.K.K. Klu Klux Klan

Everyone knows who they are. The white supremacist that think every problem they incur comes from someone of another color. The White People that think the United States would be better if it were only inhabited by White People.

M.S.B.  Muslim Suicide Bombers

Scratching your head, Huh. How in the Hell does she plan on pulling this off? Well here I go.

The upbringing

B.M.W.– They were brought up in nothing but negativity. They have been told since birth; the world is out to get you. It doesn’t stop at a Race. Yes, the white man is out to get you, but so are your black elected officials. America is not a place for A Black Man to Become Successful.

K.K.K– They were brought up in nothing but negativity. They have been told since birth; you are the rightful Heir to this Country. It doesn’t stop at Race. Yes, the Black Man is taking all your opportunities, but it’s white people that are helping them. America is no longer a place where a white man can feel safe.

M.S.B.– They were brought up in nothing by negativity. They have been told since birth; if you spend your life killing people who don’t believe the same as you, then you’ll get 99 Virgins in Heaven. It doesn’t stop at Race. Yes, we want to hurt Jews, but there are Muslims standing in our way. America is despicable because everyone doesn’t believe in Allah.

The Leaders

B.M.W.– The Ones At The Top Don’t Practice What They Preach. Their leaders work and strive towards success then turn around and tell the People it’s impossible for you to do it. They build careers and financial stability, while advocating Public Assistance. They advance in Power and Prestige and leave their People behind.

K.K.K.– The Ones At The Top Don’t Practice What They Preach. Their leaders will encourage violence against those they deem unworthy, but let a Black Man walk into his Company with the ability to push up the Sales and he’s hired. They tell their people to fight for White Rights, but campaign with speeches meant to uplift everyone. They advance in Power and Prestige and leave their People behind.

M.S.B.– The Ones At The Top Don’t Practice What They Preach. Their leaders tell them to denounce the West, while they reside in Palaces that could rival any Western Architecture. They tell their People the United States is Expansionist, while they profit from Free Trade. They tell their people to live with just the basics, then take Vacations to the U.A.E and indulge in all the Sins unacceptable in their own Countries. They advance in Power and Prestige and leave their People behind.

The Beliefs

B.M.W.– The rules everyone else has to follow, don’t apply to me. Let a News story come on about a White Man killing a Black Man in a White Community and Black People lose their minds. Racism. Let a News Story come on about a Black Man killing a White Man in a Black Neighborhood and Black People say they had no business being there in the first place.

K.K.K– The rules everyone else has to follow, don’t apply to me. During the 60’s and 70’s, a White Man in Mississippi still thought there was no way a jury would convict them for killing a NIGGER. Because a NIGGER is not a Real Man. When they began losing their property in Civil Cases, they couldn’t understand why.

M.S.B.– The rules everyone else has to follow, don’t apply to me. Every major Religion has ‘Thou shalt not Kill.’ In most Muslim countries, you can be killed for changing Religion but not for murdering for your beliefs. They complain when attacked by none Muslims, then answer by attacking their own people.

The Markings

B.M.W.– When the Kitchen gets to hot, they throw on a Bandanna. Red, Blue, Black; it doesn’t matter. They are quick to show people they belong to something. They fit in. But no, they don’t stop there. They have to go and get it permanently etched into their bodies. Tattoos that make it impossible to separate or individualize Themselves From Gangs.

K.K.K.-When the kitchen gets to hot, they throw on a Hood. White or Red; it doesn’t matter. They aren’t as quick to show people they belong to something. But they are quick to point out they fit in. They just use words instead of Ink. NIGGER THIS, NIGGER THAT, HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A NIGGERS DEAD? Yes there are K.K.K.’s that have Tattoos, but the majority keep their beliefs inside.

M.S.B.-When the kitchen get hot, they throw on a Scarf. White; but that doesn’t matter. They are desperate to show they belong to something. They fit in. They just don’t use Words or Ink, they use belts made to explode and inflict as much damage as possible.

Side Note: My niece told me there was a difference between putting a K.K.K. hood on a little baby and buying a little baby Fake Gold Teeth. She said one is not meant to set the Agenda to Kill. So I asked her. “What happens to that little boy when he grows up and wants everything that goes with those Gold Teeth? He becomes the one that robs, sells drugs, and eventually will make the decision to kill or be killed.

The Similarities

B.M.W.-I’m not wrong because I believe. These People know that slavery was once a part of the United States and they believe racism will always be a part of the United States. They believe a Black Man will never get a fair shake, no matter how many exceptions they are presented with. They believe they were put on this earth to fail. And no one is going to touch that Belief.

K.K.K.-I’m not wrong because I believe. These People want a return to the Glory days of Segregation. They believe they are far more adept than any Black Person could be. They believe White People settled this Country and Should Control it Forever. They believe the Purity of the White Race is the biggest Issue facing them. And no one is going to touch that Belief.

M.S.B.-I’m not wrong because I believe. These People only have to look towards the Koran to find Belief. When it can’t be found, they look toward the Sheiks. They believe Israel shouldn’t exist. They Believe Capitalism will ruin their Religion. They believe killing themselves is acceptable as long as they do it for a Good Cause. And no one is going to touch that Belief.

The Opportunities

B.M.W.-The Most Radical Need Not Apply. There are opportunities available to this faction, but they won’t accept them. Not because they don’t want them. It’s because accepting them down grades your creditability. To reject the Lifestyle would mean your a traitor, a backstabber, and embarrassment to your Faction. Why can’t I be Black and Smart?

K.K.K.-The Most Radical Need Not Apply. There are opportunities available to this faction, and they will accept them. They will take a position as long as another White Person is in Charge. Let a Black Man take over and it’s time to go. Not because he’s a Bad Guy, It’s because working under him down grades your creditability, To reject the Lifestyle would mean your a traitor, a backstabber, and embarrassment to your Faction. Can I pay my bill, even if a Black Man signs my check?

M.S.B. -The Most Radical Need Not Apply. There are opportunities available to this Faction, but they are given no chance to see them. Instead of learning to read, write and think independently, they are taught to shoot in Elementary School. I’m sure Muslim parents cringe at that thought, but they send them to school none the less. It’s not because they don’t want their children to have long lives. It’s because if the don’t fight for Islam your creditability is down graded. To reject the Lifestyle would mean you’re a traitor, a back stabber, and an embarrassment to your Faction. Can I pray to Allah, without wanting to Kill Someone?

The Point

Every group of People have Conservative thinkers, Liberal thinkers, and those who Follow One of the Two. No one in this World is meant to Go It Alone. We are born into families and our families are connected by Culture, Religion, and Common Ideals. When we lack those Families and Networks, we feel lost and want to belong to something.

That’s where the Factions come in. They scoop up those that are alone, hurt, and angry; with no where to place their frustration. They take them in and give them acceptance, but along with that comes the Negative. Nothing in this world comes without a price. The admission to these groups; Your Ability to think for yourself, Your Ability to break Stereotypes and Preconceived Notions, Your Ability to learn from other People, Cultures, or Religions, basically Your Soul. Just to Belong.

None of these Groups Are Respectable. None of these Groups bring any Good into the World. But the Sad reality is, they will always exist. Someone will always find a way to rally the troops and improve their personal position. There will always be someone that didn’t put in the Work but expects results. And when those results don’t come, they will look elsewhere to place the blame. There will always be those that believe in nothing, so they will fall for anything.

Lil Miss Sassy: I Run This

August 25th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Once upon a time there was a girl named Sassy.  Sassy was the Shit.  She rocked the Newest Clothes, drove the hottest Cars, had the Best Friends and Loved Life.  Her favorite saying,  I Run This.

Well one day, Sassy was out with her friends.   They were in the Mall when Sassy spotted a Girl that looked so out of place.  Immediately, Sassy and her friends made the girl the target of their jokes.  They followed her around talking about her clothes, her hair, and anything else they could point out.

The Girl heard the comments and was tempted to turn around but she was on a mission.   Sassy and Friends continued to follow the Girl; And they continued to crack jokes.  Finally the Girl was finished with her shopping and headed out of the Mall.  Sassy said, “I Run this Mall.”

Sassy called one of her Boyfriends’ but he wasn’t home.  She tried another, but he wasn’t answering.  She  went to the parking lot and waited for a fly car to ride by.  The Girl drove by in her Honda and Sassy and her friends laughed.  A Hummer rolled up and stopped.  Sassy said “I Run These Dudes” as she got into the Jeep.

Sassy got home and her mother was asleep on the Couch.  Sassy wakes her and asks her if Dinner is Ready.  Her mother has worked a double and all Sassy can think about is herself.  Her mother gets up and cooks for her.  “I Run My Mom.”  Said Sassy.

Then all of a sudden, Crash.  She ran to the kitchen to find her Mother laying on the floor.  She was so panicked, she didn’t now what to do.  She called all her friends and none answered.  She called all her dudes and none answered.  She finally called an Ambulance.

Suddenly, Sassy didn’t feel like she Ran Anything.  She had rode in every kind of car, but she didn’t have one of her own.  She was popular in School, but she didn’t pay attention when they taught CPR.  She got everything she wanted but somebody else always paid for it.

Sassy rode to the Hospital with her mother.  When they took her to the back, Sassy made her way to the Chapel.  She didn’t know why; her feet just lead her there.  She opened the door and who was there but the Girl from the Mall.  Sassy moved toward the Girl.

“I know you didn’t follow me from the Mall.”  The Girl said the moment she saw Sassy.

Sassy shook her head No and explained her visit to the Hospital.  The Girl closed her eyes, clasped her hands, and began to Pray.  Sassy questioned her actions.

The Girl said “I’m talking it to the Man in charge.”

Sassy barked back “I Run Me”

The doors opened and a Doctor ran in to get Sassy.  Her mother had major heart failure and need a transplant immediately.  The feeling of helplessness came back.  She could get clothes and rides from Dudes but she got her food and shelter from her Mother.  Where would she be without her Mother?

They let Sassy visit with her Mom.  Her prognosis wasn’t Good.  She was at the top of the list for a transplant because it was an emergency, but that still didn’t guarantee she would get a New Heart.  Then the Doctor came in with fantastic News.  They had a heart.  A Patient in the Hospital went into distress and the family decided to let them Go.

Sassy  was so happy.  She wanted to meet the family that would be giving her Mother a second chance at life.  Who else?  The Girl from the Mall.

Sassy was perplexed.  Had the situation been reversed, she would not have done the same.

The Girl walked up the her and Said  “Take this as a Lesson.  God runs it.  I’m ready to let my mother Go.  I bought her all her favorite things today as you followed me around the Mall insulting me.  I spent her last coherent moments listening as she told me she wanted nothing but the best for me.  The last thing she told me was to go and Pray.  Then I run into you, again.

Then my Mother dies; at the exact moment your Mother needs a transplant.  God runs it.  I do as he commands, and he lead me to you.  Your Mother got a New Heart,  Did you?”

Sumthin Gotta Give: Big Boi and Mary J. Blige

August 25th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

I Love OutKast. Mary J. Blige is my favorite Female Artist. Just watch the video, while I build my thoughts.

Oh! Hip Hop isn’t dead. It lives and there are “Mainstream” Artists that will put it all out there. Not like Jack Ass Ludacris, but with swag and eloquence. I really hate to do what I’m about to.

What the Hell is Wrong with You Two?

In the beginning, you should have stated this was an endorsement for Barack Obama. I don’t mind that you have an opinion and you want to share it. Go Ahead. But make it known ahead of time. Question why they wait until the end of the video to show Obama. Is it maybe; then you don’t have to explain How He Is Going To Help You.

Why not start with the local Government? Why not point out the Mayors’ that have held office during the declining years? Let’s just throw one out there.

This is Shirley Franklin. She has been the Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia since 2002. If the schools continue to decline. Go and talk to her. If the crime rate gets worse, go knock on her door. If you can’t find a job, ask her for one. I guarantee If Barack Obama becomes President, the government of your city will not change. Especially if you already have a Democrat in office.

So What’s the Point?

I don’t think they are encouraging anyone new to vote for Obama. The ones’ who would fall for it, already are voting for him because he is black.

My beef comes with the deception. I believe the words in the song, until Mary begins to sing. I just don’t see how any policy Barack Obama supports will get us to the World they Want. Okay we can bring the troops home. I got that, Not going to argue, but what else?

See, Democrats will fight for the right to have guns in Video’s but will try to deny you the right to have one in your home legally. They will fight for Health Care but will split your benefits with Illegal Immigrants. They will fight for College Tuition but fight against sending your child to a school that will actually prepare them for College. They will fight for your right to choose but will deny you the right to help your child with the decision. They will fight for Gay’s right to marry but be careful, with a combined income you might become “Rich” and see your Taxes double.

Where is any of that in the Message?

Are You Better Off Now Than You Were 8 Years Ago?

August 25th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

That seems to be the theme of the Barack Obama campaign. So I’m going to do the assessment of myself. Then I hope you can do the same.

On the Inside

Eight years Ago, I got to vote for the first time.

I woke up election morning excited. I was going to vote for Al Gore. He was the Vice President to the 1st black President, Bill Clinton. He was the Democrat. That’s all I needed to know.

I voted for Al Gore, without knowing anything about the Politics that came with him. I’m so ashamed to admit that but it’s nothing but truth here. I’m better off now because I NOW Pay attention to the speeches, the nuances, and judge on my belief.

Eight Years Ago, I lived in Richmond Va.

Now I love my hometown. It raised me; How could I not? But they weren’t Good lessons. Many of my friends were killed, arrested, or drug abusers. Many of my girl friends lived in Public Housing, had multiple kids, and no hope for a future.

I moved away right after I realized I voted for Al Gore. It wasn’t the fact that I voted for him. It came with the knowledge I wasn’t educating myself anymore. When I got out of High School, I let my learning come to a halt. I am better now. I keep my distance from friends and family and I really miss them sometimes; But there comes a time when you have to make a choice to move on. To take the Lessons of the Past and leave the heartache and pain behind.

Eight Years Ago, I thought I would never have a child

Not going to get into the medical stuff but my body wasn’t supposed to be able to handle carrying a child. This really didn’t bother me. I didn’t want any Babies? I planned on getting my money right then adopting big kids. 11, 12, and up.

I’m not going to tell you patience comes with child birth. It doesn’t. It takes time. But I am Better Off. I have that patience Now. But more than that, It was a total renewal of my faith in God. Everyone has heard the sermon; the doctor’s said No, but Jesus said Yes. Amen.

Eight Years Ago, I awoke everyday Uncertain

I was a mess. I got hit on all the time but with a fresh Scar on my once pretty stomach, my self esteem took a blow. My heart still burned for someone I couldn’t have, even though I knew he was poison. I had gotten the disease out of my body but it had taken my soul.

I still awake everyday uncertain. But I am Better Off. Now I awake Uncertain of what I’m going to write, but it comes out none the less. I’m uncertain if I’m being the best Mom I can be, but “I Love You Mommy” are the first words out of my daughters lips every morning. I am uncertain if I will ever get my message out, but I let that roll off my back and keep pushing forward.

The Outside

Eight Years Ago, I cared about Brand Names

No different than a typical American Youth. I wanted somebody’s name on my butt. Some cool logo on my Shoes. Some pretty design on my nails. Somebody’s hair style on my head. Some form of Gold on my neck, ears, and wrists.

Full Disclosure; I Love Shoes. Having said that. I am Better Off. I still get my hair done, but not the $150 and up styles. If I buy name brand, you better believe it’s on sale. I stopped wearing jewelry the more I saw people getting robbed. The major difference; when I started looking inside myself, I didn’t care as much about the outside.

Eight Years Ago, I had NO Credit Card Debt

At a very young age, I realized the truth about Credit Cards. My step mother had skipped a Payment and watched her interest rate double. I knew I was no good managing money, so I never applied for a credit card.

Now, I have Credit Card Debt. But I am Better Off. I invested in Myself. I wanted my own business, so I made the moves to make it happen. I don’t know everything and sometimes learning comes with a price. But I believe in myself, so I know I made a wise investment.

Eight Years Ago, I drove a 89 Nissan Sentra

It was red. It was my first Car. I hated it. My dad said if I kept my grades up, when I graduated he would buy me a car. Instead, I got a Car Payment on a Car I didn’t want. But to be fair, I graduated a year early and he didn’t have the proper time to save.

I’ve never had a brand New Car straight off the Lot. I could have, but I never really cared about a car. As long as I can get from Point A to Point B, I’m cool. Am I Better Off? I don’t have a car note.

Eight Years Ago, I lived with my Grandmother

If you ever want to feel like you have no privacy, you should live with my Grandmother. She didn’t believe in Snaking, everyone should eat together. She didn’t believe in Girls riding alone in a Car with a Boy. I Love Her To Death, but I would never want to live with her again.

Now you can tie all the above together. If I had a car note, I probably couldn’t afford Gas. If I only brought brand name clothes, I probably couldn’t pay the Mortgage. If I didn’t invest in Myself, I probably wouldn’t have Hope For My Future.

Are You Better Off?

I had a couple conversations to try to gauge the response. Nobody is better off. Oh, except all the white people that rob Blacks of their Money. The Oil Companies, The Government, and the People that Make Food. All on a mission to kill off the rest of Us Black Folk.

You are no better off. You are still complaining about what someone else is doing. Look inside and tell me have you grown? Any? Or are you on a continuous loop of the same mistakes?

Do you want to keep up with the Jones’ so much, that you don’t plan for the future?

Will you buy a house you know you can’t afford, with a flexible rate, so you can show off for a couple months?

Will you Go buy an SUV because you saw it in a Video, even though you know the price of Gas?

Will you continue to Rent and help someone else grow their portfolio?

Or in Eight Years from Now, will you look back and say I am Better Off. Not because John McCain was President. Not because Barack Obama was President. But because I took the steps to change my habits to make a better life for Myself.

If you have two Hi Def T.V.’s, an XBox 360, a Playstation 3, every pair of Jordans’ from the last 10 years; you could have brought stock with what you spent. You could have invested in starting your own business. You could have had a down payment for a house. You could have paid for your child’s first 2 years in college.

When you look at those White People that hold you back, where is their Escalade sitting on 22’s? Why aren’t they dripped from Head to Toe in Gold and Diamonds? Why do they all wear the same Khaki Pants and Polo?

It’s because they are paying the Mortgage on their Million Dollar Home. It’s because the Own A BMW, Great on Gas. It’s because the Gold they own is in the form of Notes. They don’t have to tell you they have money, but they can LAUGH ALL THE WAY TO THE BANK.

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Nina B Video: Show Support

August 19th, 2008 | By Sonnie Johnson

Now if you’re anything like me, you notice the lack of Feminine Personalities on the Rap Scene. Where are the Women with something to say? If we really want to hear them, then we have to seek them out.

But most of All, When we find them, we have to show them our support. Check back when they release New Material. Save that new dress for when the Female Artist comes to town. Call your radio stations and ask why they are not the ones in heavy Rotation.

Now Presenting Ms. Nina B.

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.