I am always amazed at the audacity of some people... and this is coming from a girl who tends to speak her mind even if it might rub some people the wrong way. In my own defense, I am outspoken, but I am also a nice person... but that's another post entirely.
Anyway, I despise when people boldly speak about things they clearly have to knowledge of in the first place.
A simple example: If I stop and ask you for directions, I would MUCH prefer you be honest and tell me you don't know how to find my destination, rather than pretend to know exactly where I'm going and send me halfway around the country with your stupidity.
Another example: Deep down in my soul, I cannot bear to read the idiotic "...99% of you are too scared to repost this..." statuses on facebook. Today I read this,
"Homeless go without eating....Elderly go without needed medicines.....Mentally ill without treatment....Troops without proper equipment....Yet we donate millions to other countries before helping our own first....99% of people on facebook won't have the guts to repost this!!!!! Will ...you.....?"
Now if your heart is racing and you want to jump through the computer and strangle the oblivious individual who posted this quote as their facebook status, then you and me... we're on the same page, Homey. If you are wondering why that statement sends adrenaline pumping through my body, then sit back, relax, and open your mind. By the way, my heart is still pounding in my chest.
Here we go my friends, the main problem with that statement is the examples given are completely inadequate and irrelevant for comparative purposes. How can I explain in words how substantial this is? You cannot compare the USA's homeless, hungry, elderly, troops, and mentally ill with say... Ethiopia's, for example. As of 2010, the life expectancy for individuals born in Ethiopia is 55.41 years. They don't even have elderly!!! They don't live that long! And they certainly don't have medicines! They are lucky to have a bed. Many in Ethiopia live in mud huts. Straw for beds. No medicines, people. The beautiful people of Ethiopia are dying from completely preventable and/or curable illnesses and diseases. Everyday. I can guarantee with every ounce of my being, that if the individual who posted the statement described, or anyone else for that matter, spent one measly hour in Ethiopia, they would have a brand new outlook.
In Ethiopia, any type of disability leaves you homeless, walking the streets, begging for food and money. If you are a female, God help you, because you are prime real estate. You are almost absolutely forced into a life of prostitution. Then what will become of your children? There isn't birth control! No one will give you a job. You have no home. Your family shuns you, because of your disability. You will give birth alone, and then what... hmmm? What? How will you survive? How will your child survive?
Furthermore, my brother is a Marine. He has completed 1 tour in Iraq and spent time in Peru, as well. I know, firsthand, the struggles our military faces and want nothing, but the best for the men and women who are protecting our country. That said, you cannot compare our military to the military (if you even want to call it that), in other countries. Ethiopia's military, seriously? Do I even need to explain?
Here's the thing, there's a whole lot of crap going on in this world... a whole lot of crap I don't understand. Here's what I need to say though...
We are all human. It is so disgustingly selfish to disregard life, simply because it is found in another country. Why are the living, breathing, feeling beings across the world less worthy than we are? The bottom line is, the people in Ethiopia (and many other countries) are suffering and dying horrific deaths. The children... be still my heart... the children must endure hardships that you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy. You must not disregard their suffering. You must not compare their lives to ours in an effort to keep your money on your own lavish countryside. Do not speak of things that you have no knowledge about. And IF you do actually fully understand the lives of the people living in other countries, devastated by natural disasters, disease, war... and still think it is appropriate to stand on your soapbox and insist to keep America's money in America... then well, get off my blog. I very sincerely hope you are never in a situation where you need aid. Because someone might find some ridiculous reason to deny you help, simply because they can. How bad would that suck?
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Individuality
Ahhh, individuality... one of my favorite topics.
Individuality is on my mind today, because... well... because I love it that much.
I am drawn to people who live their lives with little to no influence from society.
It is so insanely hard to look within ourselves instead of to others, because we don't trust ourselves. We automatically think that someone else, regardless of how ignorant they really are, knows more about any given subject than we do. Why is that? Why don't we see ourselves as the brilliant, beautiful creations we are? Conformity is a sad, sad reality for so many people who would otherwise, have so much to offer.
Also, if we, as individuals, find ourselves feeling ignorant in the presence of others, why don't we then educate ourselves? Instead, we feel lower and less worthy. Take an encounter with a knowledgeable individual as an opportunity. Be empowered. Pick up a book and educate yourself. There is an infinite amount of subjects, capable of grasping your heart and creating an undying passion in your soul. Don't you want to be passionate? Don't you want to make a difference? Only you have the power to determine your path in this life. You can happily join in with the crowd and live your days unaware of the vast knowledge and astounding impact you could have on this world. Or, you can embrace your God given ability to make your own choices. Figure out what you believe in! Don't just agree with the majority, uneducated. Empower yourself! Then, stand up for what you believe in... and you'll be able too, people, because you will have the knowledge to back it up... as well as the love and passion for what you are fighting for.
In my short time on this earth, I have already found many causes worth fighting for. It took some time for me to understand why I feel so strongly about specific topics, but I now realize that these are subjects I have educated myself on (years worth) and my interest drove me to learn more, and my thirst for knowledge turned into love in my heart. I am who I am. I love what I love... but that will change over time... as it should.
I hope you will, if only for a moment, look within yourself for your guiding light. I promise, what you find will be amazing.
Individuality is on my mind today, because... well... because I love it that much.
I am drawn to people who live their lives with little to no influence from society.
It is so insanely hard to look within ourselves instead of to others, because we don't trust ourselves. We automatically think that someone else, regardless of how ignorant they really are, knows more about any given subject than we do. Why is that? Why don't we see ourselves as the brilliant, beautiful creations we are? Conformity is a sad, sad reality for so many people who would otherwise, have so much to offer.
Also, if we, as individuals, find ourselves feeling ignorant in the presence of others, why don't we then educate ourselves? Instead, we feel lower and less worthy. Take an encounter with a knowledgeable individual as an opportunity. Be empowered. Pick up a book and educate yourself. There is an infinite amount of subjects, capable of grasping your heart and creating an undying passion in your soul. Don't you want to be passionate? Don't you want to make a difference? Only you have the power to determine your path in this life. You can happily join in with the crowd and live your days unaware of the vast knowledge and astounding impact you could have on this world. Or, you can embrace your God given ability to make your own choices. Figure out what you believe in! Don't just agree with the majority, uneducated. Empower yourself! Then, stand up for what you believe in... and you'll be able too, people, because you will have the knowledge to back it up... as well as the love and passion for what you are fighting for.
In my short time on this earth, I have already found many causes worth fighting for. It took some time for me to understand why I feel so strongly about specific topics, but I now realize that these are subjects I have educated myself on (years worth) and my interest drove me to learn more, and my thirst for knowledge turned into love in my heart. I am who I am. I love what I love... but that will change over time... as it should.
I hope you will, if only for a moment, look within yourself for your guiding light. I promise, what you find will be amazing.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Mason's in kindergarten!
Look at my gorgeous little baby. It seems like just yesterday I was sitting in the rocking chair, rubbing my pregnant belly...
Showing off his awesome backpack!
Seriously, what a stud.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
My An Orphan's Wish Office
Pictured below: My AOW office. (space may also be converted into my kitchen counter). remarkable.
The AOW flyers with letters attached, all tucked neatly into my favorite Bob Marley folder. Ready for distribution.
Pay It Forward
One of the things that I hate most in this life is... joining in with the crowd.
Following the shooting this morning at JHH, I imagine there will be a lot of talk about the implications of the incident for hospital staff, patients, and the community in general. I have already seen the various facebook statuses... mostly shock and disgust with what transpired at the hospital this morning.
So, it is almost painful for me to discuss this topic that others are speaking about, but I feel I may have a different point of view and so I digress.
I have so much to say.
First, media does society such a disservice. Entertainment for many is a handbook for some. Whoever dreams up the insanely ridiculous season finales of the newest television drama, is a mastermind. You are a genius. I could never just imagine that scene unfolding! And most likely, neither could any other joe shmow. Unfortunately, the concept for the TV drama gives birth to psychopathic reality for some of the crazies in society. I am, by no means, placing blame. I firmly believe that each individual has their own mind and is capable of making their own decisions. Period. But the fact of the matter is, if you make a TV show depicting a distraught patient/family member shooting up a hospital, you create ideas in some who may not of thought of that on their own. Key word: may.
Furthermore, what the hell is wrong with people? Why does this society... these generations, seem to lack appreciation for human life? For life in general? Do you not see life... air to breath, eyes to see, a heart to beat? It is not acceptable to take another life. That should have never become an option at all. Now, it is a feasible and sometimes simple alternative. That is absurd.
Something is wrong with our society and why it takes a tragedy, such as the shooting at JHH, to open people's eyes, is beyond me. Wake up people! We need to make a change! We need to love one another. It is a learning process, but with knowledge comes acceptance, and through acceptance, love can form.
If you take nothing else from my scattered writings, please take this moment to consider love over hate. It starts with you. One, single person... in one, single instance... choosing kindness over cruelty. It WILL create a chain reaction. Pay it forward, peeps!
Following the shooting this morning at JHH, I imagine there will be a lot of talk about the implications of the incident for hospital staff, patients, and the community in general. I have already seen the various facebook statuses... mostly shock and disgust with what transpired at the hospital this morning.
So, it is almost painful for me to discuss this topic that others are speaking about, but I feel I may have a different point of view and so I digress.
I have so much to say.
First, media does society such a disservice. Entertainment for many is a handbook for some. Whoever dreams up the insanely ridiculous season finales of the newest television drama, is a mastermind. You are a genius. I could never just imagine that scene unfolding! And most likely, neither could any other joe shmow. Unfortunately, the concept for the TV drama gives birth to psychopathic reality for some of the crazies in society. I am, by no means, placing blame. I firmly believe that each individual has their own mind and is capable of making their own decisions. Period. But the fact of the matter is, if you make a TV show depicting a distraught patient/family member shooting up a hospital, you create ideas in some who may not of thought of that on their own. Key word: may.
Furthermore, what the hell is wrong with people? Why does this society... these generations, seem to lack appreciation for human life? For life in general? Do you not see life... air to breath, eyes to see, a heart to beat? It is not acceptable to take another life. That should have never become an option at all. Now, it is a feasible and sometimes simple alternative. That is absurd.
Something is wrong with our society and why it takes a tragedy, such as the shooting at JHH, to open people's eyes, is beyond me. Wake up people! We need to make a change! We need to love one another. It is a learning process, but with knowledge comes acceptance, and through acceptance, love can form.
If you take nothing else from my scattered writings, please take this moment to consider love over hate. It starts with you. One, single person... in one, single instance... choosing kindness over cruelty. It WILL create a chain reaction. Pay it forward, peeps!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Champions
Please pay no attention to the dinner of champions in the following photographs... thank you.
What can your kid do?
Because mine... well mine can make this... out of a mini oreo cookie!
BLAM!
Artist: Austin Petr- 19 months
Monday, September 13, 2010
An Orphan's Wish
You all are doing an amazing job, supporting An Orphan's Wish! Thank you to everyone out there who is sponsoring, donating, spreading the word, and praying for AOW!
If you don't know what I'm talking about, or haven't had the time to check us out, please visit http://www.anorphanswish.org/!
Thanks again!
You ARE making a difference!
If you don't know what I'm talking about, or haven't had the time to check us out, please visit http://www.anorphanswish.org/!
Thanks again!
You ARE making a difference!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
A Superhero Party!
Today we had a great time at, our friend, Micah's 4th birthday party! The kids all had fun at the park, especially since they got to dress up like their favorite super heroes. Somebody want to explain why no one dressed up like a mom???? Hmmm...
Super Austin on the slide!
Batman, aka. Mason, speeding away on his bat mobile, aka. scooter.
Super Austin on the slide!
Batman, aka. Mason, speeding away on his bat mobile, aka. scooter.
Boy Wonder!
A collaboration of great minds.
Our 6th Anniversary
Today, Mike and I celebrate 6 fabulous years of marriage. Over the last 10 years, we have spent almost every day together. It wouldn't be surprising to me if we had already had our share of good times and bad, but truth be told, everyday with my husband is a blessing. He is so patient and understanding. He is so very loving. He is a phenomenal father, which if course makes me love him even more! I have been so lucky to find my match so young in life. From the very beginning, I knew God had us find each other in order to carry out His big plans and I am so glad He trusted us. There is not another person on this earth who could fill my man's shoes... I am so lucky to have him on my team.
Proof that Mike knows who I am deep in my soul... and loves me just the way I am!
Proof that Mike knows who I am deep in my soul... and loves me just the way I am!
The biggest and most romantic fortune cookie ever! Note: this may or may not have already been devoured.
The beautiful roses that Mr. Romance left as a trail from the bedroom to my gift on the kitchen table!
How lucky I am to have found the love of my life!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Waiting For A Family...
Wow, lots of exciting things going on at An Orphan's Wish today! I just received word that you can now go to http://www.anorphanswish.org/ and view pictures and info on waiting children. It is my understanding that these children have at one time or are currently stayed in the House of Love and been supported by An Orphan's Wish! Please take a moment to visit the site... it just might change your life!
100 Sponsors In 100 Days!
Hello out there! Please visit http://www.anorphanswish.org/ to learn more about how we are changing lives! Please consider becoming a sponsor for one of our incredibly deserving little angels and help us reach our goal of 100 sponsors in 100 days, as well! You can make a difference! Don't forget to add my name to the notes section during your checkout and you could help me win a free trip to China to visit with the kiddies! Thank you!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Go Ravens!
These three absolutely adorable, fascinating, brilliant, loving, hysterical little people are the ever-illuminating sun in my sky. I love them immeasurably. God's blessings in my life are so abundant and o.b.v.i.o.u.s... just look at them!
Oh, and Go Ravens!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Revision
Ugh, why do I have to be so philosophical? I need to, ahem... revise my previous post.
In my attempt to convey my very deep and intricate feelings, I may have come off cold and misleading. By no means did I mean to imply that I do not want the issues "to invade my own life." The issues are my life. The very aspects of. this. life. that have taken hold of my heart and soul and forced me to open up my eyes and become aware, forced me to make the choice to either stand up and fight, or turn the other cheek and blend in with the unsuspecting crowd... have formed my own life, not invaded it.
And for that, my friends, I am eternally grateful. Maybe I'm just in a different mindset at this hour, but I am privileged to walk that fine line previously mentioned. Some days I play Three Little Birds repeatedly, and some days I play Africa Must Wake Up. That's just my life.
In my attempt to convey my very deep and intricate feelings, I may have come off cold and misleading. By no means did I mean to imply that I do not want the issues "to invade my own life." The issues are my life. The very aspects of. this. life. that have taken hold of my heart and soul and forced me to open up my eyes and become aware, forced me to make the choice to either stand up and fight, or turn the other cheek and blend in with the unsuspecting crowd... have formed my own life, not invaded it.
And for that, my friends, I am eternally grateful. Maybe I'm just in a different mindset at this hour, but I am privileged to walk that fine line previously mentioned. Some days I play Three Little Birds repeatedly, and some days I play Africa Must Wake Up. That's just my life.
Count Your Blessings
Yet another Marley tribute... Count Your Blessings is the title of a track on the Distant Relatives album by Nas and Damian Marley.
The song is inspiring, for sure. A clear reminder that we should be grateful for our blessings. Let go of your negativity. Absolutely words to live by... words of wisdom... BUT, sometimes when you are aware (because you have made yourself aware) of people's hardships and society's ignorance AND you have made it your own journey to bring awareness to the issues and make.a.difference... your heartache and personal struggle to reach your goal, is exhausting. Did you follow that? Yet, if you vow to count your blessings, live life to the fullest, don't worry, be happy... aren't you, in a sense, abandoning the fight? Don't get me wrong now, we all have those days... good and bad. I will be the first to admit that I get weak and those thoughts creep into my conscious mind, reminding me how blissful ignorance truly is. I don't wake up every morning ready to start a revolution, but I do wake up every morning aware. I just find it hard to walk the super thin line between fighting for what you believe in and letting the negativity invade your own life. It's a difficult road... this one less traveled. Has someone said that before?? =) Anyway, those are my thoughts for today... take them for what they are.
I would like to end on a don't-worry-be-happy note though... my struggle aside...
I LOVE my children.
I LOVE my husband.
I LOVE my family.
I LOVE Africa!
I love China.
I love God's orphans and I will change some lives, I will.
I am blessed to be touched my music.
I love our earth and I am grateful to be here.
I love when the cool breeze blows across my cheeks and I feel the presence of my God in the air.
I LOVE being me!
I love being aware... I love the opportunity to make a change.
I am soooo blessed!
The song is inspiring, for sure. A clear reminder that we should be grateful for our blessings. Let go of your negativity. Absolutely words to live by... words of wisdom... BUT, sometimes when you are aware (because you have made yourself aware) of people's hardships and society's ignorance AND you have made it your own journey to bring awareness to the issues and make.a.difference... your heartache and personal struggle to reach your goal, is exhausting. Did you follow that? Yet, if you vow to count your blessings, live life to the fullest, don't worry, be happy... aren't you, in a sense, abandoning the fight? Don't get me wrong now, we all have those days... good and bad. I will be the first to admit that I get weak and those thoughts creep into my conscious mind, reminding me how blissful ignorance truly is. I don't wake up every morning ready to start a revolution, but I do wake up every morning aware. I just find it hard to walk the super thin line between fighting for what you believe in and letting the negativity invade your own life. It's a difficult road... this one less traveled. Has someone said that before?? =) Anyway, those are my thoughts for today... take them for what they are.
I would like to end on a don't-worry-be-happy note though... my struggle aside...
I LOVE my children.
I LOVE my husband.
I LOVE my family.
I LOVE Africa!
I love China.
I love God's orphans and I will change some lives, I will.
I am blessed to be touched my music.
I love our earth and I am grateful to be here.
I love when the cool breeze blows across my cheeks and I feel the presence of my God in the air.
I LOVE being me!
I love being aware... I love the opportunity to make a change.
I am soooo blessed!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Marley Mama's thought of the day
Have you ever thought that the "facts" that you imply not to be racist, because you believe them to be "fact," are actually the misconceptions of a society who's ignorance has blinded them to the exceptionality of each individual?
Travis' First Day
In my excitement to post Travis' pictures, I forgot to add how he handled his first day... emotionally. So, for documentation, here is the run-down...
We entered his classroom together, hand in hand, and searched for his name among the cards on the attendance chart. He found it easily and turned it over. Then, we slowly and timidly made our way to the backpack area where another little boy was sobbing. My heart was hurting for him as he begged for his mommy.
Travis found his hook quickly and Mrs. Vincent came back to welcome us as Trav hung up his book bag. Mrs. Vincent took the lead in guiding Travis around the classroom for his daily school duties as I quickly and quietly knelt down for a lil kiss and hug good-bye. I watched my little angel as fear gripped his heart and tears welled up in his beautiful eyes. It took everything in me to not burst out in tears myself. I knew he was upset, but I assured him Mrs. Vincent would take good care of him and I would be back soon. I slipped out of the classroom knowing that my baby wanted me to stay. As soon as I got out the door, I couldn't stop my own tears. How hard it is to let our children grow up, especially when they need extra encouragement to let go of our hands.
The next hour went by quickly and I couldn't have been more excited to see Travis come through those doors! Mason and Austin were waiting with me, happy to see their brother again.
And then... there he was. My sweet, shy, loving little Travis looking content as can be, to wait in line with his friends. He came out, took my hand, and was seemed unfazed by the events of his first day of school. I was so proud of my boy... as I always am.
We entered his classroom together, hand in hand, and searched for his name among the cards on the attendance chart. He found it easily and turned it over. Then, we slowly and timidly made our way to the backpack area where another little boy was sobbing. My heart was hurting for him as he begged for his mommy.
Travis found his hook quickly and Mrs. Vincent came back to welcome us as Trav hung up his book bag. Mrs. Vincent took the lead in guiding Travis around the classroom for his daily school duties as I quickly and quietly knelt down for a lil kiss and hug good-bye. I watched my little angel as fear gripped his heart and tears welled up in his beautiful eyes. It took everything in me to not burst out in tears myself. I knew he was upset, but I assured him Mrs. Vincent would take good care of him and I would be back soon. I slipped out of the classroom knowing that my baby wanted me to stay. As soon as I got out the door, I couldn't stop my own tears. How hard it is to let our children grow up, especially when they need extra encouragement to let go of our hands.
The next hour went by quickly and I couldn't have been more excited to see Travis come through those doors! Mason and Austin were waiting with me, happy to see their brother again.
And then... there he was. My sweet, shy, loving little Travis looking content as can be, to wait in line with his friends. He came out, took my hand, and was seemed unfazed by the events of his first day of school. I was so proud of my boy... as I always am.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
One hour
If I had just one hour with Damian Marley... well it's inappropriate to say what images really run through my mind, but let's just say he is a brilliant, incredibly amazing man... and leave it at that.
If I had one hour with Mr. Marley, I would have so much to say, so much to ask. I want to discuss the Rastafarian movement with him. I want to know his personal beliefs and opinions. I am intrigued and curious. I want to know how he can truly believe that Haile Selassie is the second coming of Jesus Christ?
With all the truths and facts revealed, how can you still believe that Haile Selassie was divine? What do you believe to be true about the famine in Ethiopia and if Haile Selassie knew? How can you believe Ethiopia is Zion yet claim the divinity of the man who adamantly hid the famine and allowed for the painful deaths of so many Ethiopians, in order to preserve his reputation? I wonder if you would claim that the media distorted the reality of what was really going on in Ethiopia and thus caused the downfall of Haile Selassie? What do you believe about the apparent death of Haile Selassie?
I'm not being combative here, I'm genuinely curious what Mr. Marley would have to say.
Fundamentally, Damian Marley and I believe in the same things. Incredibly, we have a lot in common. I absolutely believe that the media does a disservice to society. How can the average man distinguish what is true unless he decides to research and determine the honesty of each individual media claim? And until your eyes are opened to the lies being shoved down your throat, you don't know that you should have been researching those claims in the first place. I get it. But it is our duty, and our RIGHT to decide for ourselves what is truth. Don't you dare let the media's stereotypes and vast generalizations be the only education you receive before choosing your path in this life. Please.
I also truly, deeply love Africa. I absolutely believe and appreciate that every man, regardless of skin color, culture, religion etc. came from Africa. It's particularly difficult to be white and hold this belief to be true. What this means for me is that although personally, I did not make the choices to deem people of color to be a lesser race and thus worthy of slavery, torture, and death, my ancestors did. Although I live every single day of my life, educating and fighting for the rights of other races, I will always feel shameful about my ancestry. That is hard. I actually can't believe I just let those words come to fruition on my monitor, but it needs to be said. Any white man who does not feel some shame about the mistakes (and mistakes is an understatement) of his ancestors, obviously doesn't understand the extent of what God's human beings had to endure at the hand of the white man. That said, today is a new day and a new opportunity to make good on those faults. Our hearts beat the same, our blood bleeds the same, and today we must unite to make a change.
Furthermore, though I do believe in the dishonesty of our media, I also think it is ignorant and damaging to suggest that the media's depiction of the lives of many, many Ethiopians in completely inaccurate. Many Ethiopians are, in fact, starving. And although I agree that the media never shows the amazing, incredible, beautiful aspects of Ethiopia's history, culture, and society, it is important for people to have their eyes opened to the devastation in the country, as well. Reform needs to start now for Ethiopia. Enough people have suffered and died. The rest of the world will never, ever be able to see the beauty that is Ethiopia if she does not save her own people first.
What I would give for the knowledge of how to start reform for Ethiopia...
So, Mr. Marley's lyrics are extensive, genius, and enlightening... but they are also limiting. The album, Distant Relatives, leaves me questioning him and wanting to know more. Brilliant?... absolutely. Frustrating?... absolutely. If I had just one hour with Damian Marley, we would have a lot to talk about.
If I had one hour with Mr. Marley, I would have so much to say, so much to ask. I want to discuss the Rastafarian movement with him. I want to know his personal beliefs and opinions. I am intrigued and curious. I want to know how he can truly believe that Haile Selassie is the second coming of Jesus Christ?
With all the truths and facts revealed, how can you still believe that Haile Selassie was divine? What do you believe to be true about the famine in Ethiopia and if Haile Selassie knew? How can you believe Ethiopia is Zion yet claim the divinity of the man who adamantly hid the famine and allowed for the painful deaths of so many Ethiopians, in order to preserve his reputation? I wonder if you would claim that the media distorted the reality of what was really going on in Ethiopia and thus caused the downfall of Haile Selassie? What do you believe about the apparent death of Haile Selassie?
I'm not being combative here, I'm genuinely curious what Mr. Marley would have to say.
Fundamentally, Damian Marley and I believe in the same things. Incredibly, we have a lot in common. I absolutely believe that the media does a disservice to society. How can the average man distinguish what is true unless he decides to research and determine the honesty of each individual media claim? And until your eyes are opened to the lies being shoved down your throat, you don't know that you should have been researching those claims in the first place. I get it. But it is our duty, and our RIGHT to decide for ourselves what is truth. Don't you dare let the media's stereotypes and vast generalizations be the only education you receive before choosing your path in this life. Please.
I also truly, deeply love Africa. I absolutely believe and appreciate that every man, regardless of skin color, culture, religion etc. came from Africa. It's particularly difficult to be white and hold this belief to be true. What this means for me is that although personally, I did not make the choices to deem people of color to be a lesser race and thus worthy of slavery, torture, and death, my ancestors did. Although I live every single day of my life, educating and fighting for the rights of other races, I will always feel shameful about my ancestry. That is hard. I actually can't believe I just let those words come to fruition on my monitor, but it needs to be said. Any white man who does not feel some shame about the mistakes (and mistakes is an understatement) of his ancestors, obviously doesn't understand the extent of what God's human beings had to endure at the hand of the white man. That said, today is a new day and a new opportunity to make good on those faults. Our hearts beat the same, our blood bleeds the same, and today we must unite to make a change.
Furthermore, though I do believe in the dishonesty of our media, I also think it is ignorant and damaging to suggest that the media's depiction of the lives of many, many Ethiopians in completely inaccurate. Many Ethiopians are, in fact, starving. And although I agree that the media never shows the amazing, incredible, beautiful aspects of Ethiopia's history, culture, and society, it is important for people to have their eyes opened to the devastation in the country, as well. Reform needs to start now for Ethiopia. Enough people have suffered and died. The rest of the world will never, ever be able to see the beauty that is Ethiopia if she does not save her own people first.
What I would give for the knowledge of how to start reform for Ethiopia...
So, Mr. Marley's lyrics are extensive, genius, and enlightening... but they are also limiting. The album, Distant Relatives, leaves me questioning him and wanting to know more. Brilliant?... absolutely. Frustrating?... absolutely. If I had just one hour with Damian Marley, we would have a lot to talk about.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Nas and Jr. Gong
On Tues., I went to see Nas and Damian Marley perform live at Sonar! I was lucky enough to spend the evening with two awesome ladies, Stacey and Jessica! We had a friggin' phenomenal time... in fact, that's a vast understatement.
If you have spent more than 35 seconds with me, you know that I believe and preach equality of all people. I lead by example and no longer have to make an effort to do that. It's natural. Imagine if you will... me (5'2") in a sea of towering men. I literally was surrounded by approximately 6 men, towering over me at probably 6' or more each. I'm talking shoulder to shoulder here, figuratively of course since my shoulder was level with their ribs. Anywayyyy, petite pale skin chick jammin' in a crowd of brown faces. Now imagine us all sweating profusely, jumping, raising our hands up, dancing, singing... sweating again, because it was that HOT. Now imagine me with the biggest, cheesiest smile on my face. Imagine me closing my eyes and loving every minute. Imagine pure joy and relief that someone else in this world believes what I do. Equality. That we are all made perfectly. That we have the power within ourselves to surpass all odds and overcome all obstacles. That God is good... great! And we should be living our lives according to His will. That we are free. That we need to stand up for our rights, but we need to stand up for those who need our help, as well. I could go on forever... seriously.
The musical collaboration of Nas and Damian Marley is nothing short of genius. The show was incredible... a life changing experience.
If you have spent more than 35 seconds with me, you know that I believe and preach equality of all people. I lead by example and no longer have to make an effort to do that. It's natural. Imagine if you will... me (5'2") in a sea of towering men. I literally was surrounded by approximately 6 men, towering over me at probably 6' or more each. I'm talking shoulder to shoulder here, figuratively of course since my shoulder was level with their ribs. Anywayyyy, petite pale skin chick jammin' in a crowd of brown faces. Now imagine us all sweating profusely, jumping, raising our hands up, dancing, singing... sweating again, because it was that HOT. Now imagine me with the biggest, cheesiest smile on my face. Imagine me closing my eyes and loving every minute. Imagine pure joy and relief that someone else in this world believes what I do. Equality. That we are all made perfectly. That we have the power within ourselves to surpass all odds and overcome all obstacles. That God is good... great! And we should be living our lives according to His will. That we are free. That we need to stand up for our rights, but we need to stand up for those who need our help, as well. I could go on forever... seriously.
The musical collaboration of Nas and Damian Marley is nothing short of genius. The show was incredible... a life changing experience.
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