Could Donald Trump Really Become the Next U.S. President?

I suppose the answer depends on whom you ask. The fact that he's getting so much flack from his GOP competitors leads me to believe the answer is a very strong and solid MAYBE. He reminds me of an off-the-cuff Mitt Romney. By this I mean he is among the most financially wealthiest people in the world and will not lose this status even if he loses the campaign or anything else in life for that matter. Aside from knowing he's not in this race for the paycheck or desire to live like a rock-star for the next four years, let's talk meat here. Donald Trump knows money. Donald Trump has a proven track record for creating jobs and enterprises. Donald Trump knows hard work since he helped build properties with his dad when he was a youngster. He's successfully raised several children of his own and taught them the value of work and not just doling out cash creating unstable rich kids. Donald Trump knows comebacks from defeats, since he's filed bankruptcy a time or two. If I had to toss my hat in the ring today for the next nod for President, I'm teetering on saying his name; but, it's really far too soon...not really....and barring him making any actions that would derail him as a viable option, I'd say...hmmmmmmm.....D-d-d-d-...uhmmmm...too soon...But, don't discount him as noncredible. People are listening. People who have money to build him up are watching. This might get very interesting. Very interesting.  

Sandra Bland an Example of Why Cooler Heads Should Always Prevail

The last time I blogged it was quite a mournful affair; even though it pales in comparison to goings on in the world. On the heels of that post occurred the terrible massacre of nine church members in South Carolina, making it much too stressful to write for a while. Tears of sadness for everyone directly and indirectly involved was all the initial prompt could muster.
I've begun working and don't have a lot of time for the hobby of blogging. But, amidst the many newsworthy topics that have occurred since last I wrote, the one that is bringing me to the keypad this day is the Sandra Bland story. My bottom line in this case is respect given, would probably have been respect received, leaving her to live another day and enjoy the blessings of a new gig. Anyone who lives in the South knows that summer is as close to hell-fire as anyone should want to get. Without making excuses for anyone involved, it is far too hot to deal with attitude. If you're having a bad day, know that people working in the heat might be having one too. Keeping tensions cool is always a plus.
With that said, once the lights hit your rear-view mirror, you are technically under arrest. Saying what you don't have to do is not going to work in your favor. You are fooling you if you think you are going to win in situations where authority is disrespected. I don't care how much media fire there is about police brutality. Laws and respect for authority are designed to help civilized nations remain civilized.
Final word: Do I think Bland committed suicide? Yes. I do believe she was just that overwhelmed; not just with having to reap the consequences of failing to follow authority; but the fact that she would lose  the coveted new job since she was facing felony charges of Aggravated Assault of a Police Officer. In addition, I'm sure her stress factor was tantamount imagining her mother trying to raise bail money on such an avoidable offense. Will her family get rich behind this? Probably. Not because of her innocence; but because monies should be dispensed due to plastic bags in a jail cell being too convenient for a person entertaining thoughts of suicide while ruminating over the consequences of poor behavior. Either way, sad...sad...sad. One more time...sad.

I'm Convinced Everyone Has Their Own 'Third Week in June'

Every year, the third week in June finds me in mourning. No matter how many years pass, death's sting reminds me that this week was once filled with a succession of celebrations. It would really start in May with lots of shopping for the perfect gift for the perfect mom, being mine. It was met with lots of family revelry and good eats.

A few weeks later, it was the third week in June, and Mom's birthday and Father's Day always ran back-to- back. Well, since her passing nearly two decades ago, this week always finds me 'making my way' through. Being her only daughter, other family members have moved on and think I should do the same. In a large degree I have; but, anyone who has had a world-class mother knows you never completely move on. There are days that you really have to weather. And, when the week starts off with rain, as this one did, it simply adds to the drear.

Remembering Mom is swiftly followed on Sunday with the remembering of some very special fathers who have crossed over. Most recently my oldest brother, who left behind six very beautiful children, departed this existence a bit over a year ago. I'm reminded also of the man who gave me two beautiful children as husband and father and died much sooner than anyone who loved him would have wished.

In the midst of all the mourning, there's another mourning of sorts. My dear sweet Dad is still very much alive and well. That's a real blessing. However, as many know, when one parent dies, the other eventually remarries, especially men. Well, such is the case. About a decade after Mom died he married a wonderful woman, a baker's-dozen years' younger than he, which I'm sure helps keep him youthful. With that said, new wife comes with six new half-siblings who have adopted him as the wonderful dad that he is, considering their father died, ironically, nearly two decades ago. As my birth-family once was, they are a very family-oriented clan and have his Father's Day mapped to the hilt with barbecues and gifts that reminds one of Christmas. Added to that, I'm a three-hour drive away. Oh yes, I'm more than welcome to attend; but, can you imagine trying to be stoic with a step-mom trying to live up to my birth mother. Dizzying to think about, and much too 'pseudo' for lack of a better word. As I said, she really is the perfect wife for my dad.  So, I'll call and genuinely wish him a happy day. It is tiring to sound upbeat when we speak in this third week in June. As usual, I eventually bring up mom's recent birthday, which is a bit awkward, trying not to rain on the mood. After 'catching up' we end the call, and if I'm blessed, as usual, the fourth week in June rolls around, and by God's grace life resumes as normal.

So, if you're mourning a loss with the upcoming Father's Day, know that you are not alone. Don't be shy to talk about your sorrow even if everyone around you thinks you should have moved on by now. It's not for them to decide; after all, most have not experienced the loss as you have.

Dolezal's Misrepresentation More A Case of Don't Ask, Don't Tell

There's nothing new about people denying their true race for an opportunity at a better, more posh future. NAACP Head, Rachel Dolezal merely flipped the tables on the controversial practice of Affirmative Action. Interestingly, I'm reminded of a recent law case - Fisher v. University of Texas - involving a student taking her race-based complaint to the Supreme Court in attempt to lawfully overturn a perceived discrimination practice. The Supreme Court tossed it back to a court of appeals, which offered no conclusive verdict, and Fisher continues her fight against race-based admissions.

The issue of Dolezal reminds me of someone functioning from a "whatever-it-takes" mentality, which is very common in the make-it-to-the-top career-world. The first time I heard that phrase, I cringed to the core; because, the question asked was in relation to something that should have required a more problem-solving approach as an answer. There's something deceptive about doing whatever it takes to make something happen. In this case, it is the integrity of someone working in a job capacity requiring utmost integrity.

Recently, I have applied for many jobs. Usually, near the end of a lengthy application, a page pops up indicating that for statistical uses ONLY information about my race, age, and gender are required. Some companies allow for an opportunity to opt-out. I offer the data anyway; since these identifying factors are easily discernible on my vitae. I'd have to be pretty naive to think one couldn't surmise with near-exact precision my race, age range, or gender based on details given.

On to the bottom line: Do I believe Dolezal should be fired? Nope. If she is clearly fulfilling her role as director, then she should continue doing so. After all, if she wasn't vetted for race, obviously race wasn't a factor in her qualifications. Perhaps, the fact that she checked two boxes infers some loyalty to her son and her adopted siblings. I am sad that she felt a need to falsify her race; however, I clearly understand that for those who have peace about rationalizing integrity in life, she resorted to 'whatever it took.' Clearly, she had all the qualifications needed to impress the person who appointed her. After all, to fire her because she's white would be reverse-discrimination; thus a violation of equal-opportunity rights.

Let it rest. The quandary is hers to deal with. The media-mayhem may get the better of her and she may resign, not because she's white; but because she was truly disingenuous about a key factor in the position she holds. If she denied a black person a lucrative job because the hiring committee 'thought' she was black, then let it rest. It's not her fault, in a sense, because she clearly sat in front of them during several interviews and received the nod as the woman for the job. One for Dolezal. Thousands of people fudge on job applications every day in less obvious ways with hopes of having a pay check at the end of the month to have a sustainable life. Will she resign? I don't know. Should she be fired because she lied about her race? NOPE. After all, to reiterate, this would become a case for reverse-discrimination, as well as the presumption that the NAACP can't have white leadership. Now, that would be a case for the Supreme Court with some tornadic winds in its sails.

Denver Mom Humiliating Daughter Planting a Seed of Abuse

 My heart breaks watching this video. I don't think this is effective parenting any more than I think running down the street attacking your 'grown' son is effective. Sometimes children do dumb and sometimes reckless acts as they transition from teen to adulthood. Taking privileges away is good; but public humiliation sends a wrong message that may teach daughters that love is 'abusive and denigrating.' Mom went from two parents who love her, to a deadbeat dad not caring.
This behavior is clearly why I believe there should be one computer for children under 18, in the main room of the home, facing where everyone who walks in can see. I purposely did this when raising my children. Facebook certainly has legal protections for children who pose as adults. So, parents the responsibility is yours to learn how to check history searches and call teens out on sites you don't approve of. Again, this is sad because this child being comfortable wearing a bra for the camera, speaking in adult language which flies over the heads of many adults, hints that she is far more active than Mom is ready to accept. This duo clearly needs professional counseling. This video needs to be removed. The child needs to be taught what happens to women who exploit themselves for men. Perhaps, making her write a research paper as summer fare would benefit her.
Mom would do well to teach her the value of abstinence while bracing herself for the fact that this daughter may be sexually active. All adults can remember the teen years, and how some of the most docile girls were climbing out of bedroom windows at night, soon pregnant to their parents' shock and horror. While this child's decision is sorrowful, not addressing her need to protect herself from disease and pregnancy would be even more devastating. Mom, she is your daughter. I know this video is to help you appear as the parent-in- control; but, I'll offer my advice again: Either find Godly counsel or allow someone a wee-bit older to tell her from experience the fire she's playing with.

I've decided not to include the link. Hopefully, Mom will take it down, NOW; and, by the time you click, it will be unavailable.

If You’re Unemployed, Keep Applying!!!!

If you’re in the hunt for a new gig don’t get discouraged and quit. Bailing out of the job-market affects the ratings in ways that skew the true unemployment rate. While the ‘stable’ numbers touted may be a good marketing ploy to get young people and some old ones, into the lure of college-student-loan debt; ultimately these low-unemployment rates lack truth. I read an article recently that stated if you stop looking for work for four-plus weeks you are not counted in the unemployment rankings. Also, if you work a mere two hours a week cutting a neighbor’s lawn, you are not counted in the unemployment rankings.

Also, if you’re only able to find part-time gigs and rely heavily on government aid, you are not unemployed; thus not counted; no matter how under-employed you may be. Which brings me to the final point. There are far more part-time jobs advertised offering zero health-benefits than full-time. Many young people are hopping three and four jobs just to total a salary resembling a 40-hour work week. Things have changed so drastically since my heyday in the market and my advice to anyone thinking about jumping into debt to attend college you might want to read the countless stories of lament online.

Am I anti college? ABSOLUTELY NOT. I would that everyone could pursue four years of academics post high school. But right now the college bureaucracy is top-heavy, and, the legs of student-loan owners aren’t going to be able to bear up under it for the long haul.  I’ve said this before. If you’re staring at graduation in the next two or three years, or weeks for that matter, consider sitting out of college til you’re 25. Yes, all of your pals will have a head-start on you; but, most will wish at 25 they would have chosen a more sensical major. I know seven years post-high school sounds like a lifetime; but, consider working in a job requiring a high-school diploma while saving like crazy to pay cash for your college degree. You may even forego the need to have the full-time, on-campus, kids-at-play experience.

 That’s it. Many are reading this right now wishing they would have heard these words before they headed fresh out of high-school, into the student-loan-debt pot, into the rat-race world working in a field they loathe.  I know this went from talking about unemployment rates to college, so somehow I’ll bring it back full circle: If you are unemployed you need to stay in the ‘hunt’ because that’s one way the truest demographic figures can be told. Bottom line, if you’re unemployed, you owe it to your country to do your duty: Keep applying! Who knows, in the process you may just land the job of your dreams.

MOTHER'S DAY 2015 BITTERSWEET FOR MANY REASONS

As Mother's Day 2015 comes to an end and the gifts have been opened and special meals prepared, we must not forget those mothers struggling to accept the loss of their precious sons, whether police officers in uniforms gunned down just because of the profession they were a part of, or those who died while in the commission of a police arrest.

We must remember Moms and their families, who at this day's end have to make sense of homes devastated by storms that blew through and destroyed everything they owned except for the memories.

And in our celebrations let us not forget those who, for one reason or another, were not in a place of being remembered for all the love they gave through the years. Let us remember mothers who are incarcerated and separated from their children. And, please let us remember to call that someone you know who mourns the abortion(s) of her battered womb and sees Mother's Day as a dark reminder of her decision(s).

But, so as not to end such a special day of honor with gloom, do let us remember, with thanks to God, all mothers past, present, and future for this life-giving role for whom without, the world would quite frankly, cease to exist. Love you, MOM.

Headline in Major Paper a Huge Blunder

Okay, how am I supposed to receive this headline published May 10, 2015? Is it in poor taste or was the editor off duty?

Two Mans and One Woman Charged in Murder of Two Cops in Mississippi - USA TODAY

The Theme of This Season's Mindy Project Destined it to Failure (with UPDATE)

When it's all said and done, Americans (U.S.) are really faaaaar more conservative than they let on. Yes, the entertainment world is full of over-the-top lifestyles and too-much-skin for the public eye; but, when we tune in to watch tv, we want choice. Prior to this season, The Mindy Project walked very close to crossing the line; but, when Mindy callously announced she was pregnant, I knew the show had one of two choices. In fact, before I disclose the choices, I actually tuned in just to see if the choice that would have earned it another season had aired. I admit, I usually miss the actual airing for one reason or another and end up catching snippets.
But, back to the two choices. The first choice was the season would have ended with her in the ER, learning that she had experienced a miscarriage. The new season would have begun with her experiencing some dark moments for her loss, and the show would have progressed with a new theme of hope and promise for her career and relationship getting stronger and more directed.
The other choice, which is the one that doomed the show for 'regular' TV is she would have remained pregnant, sending a horrible Murphy Brown message that single mothers are 'cool'. It's not that they aren't per se; but it sends a very false message. Being a med student is very exhausting. A student's days are filled to the brim with work and study. For her to have a child, and presumably function as a single-mother sent a message that most Americans will never digest as the ideal, while sitting in front of the set with chips and iced-tea. 
I understand Hulu is in line to pick up the show. Great. But, I really can't imagine finding it worth the time to watch; because, the message is all wrong on many layers, including single girl over-eager to be in relationship, never quite sealing the deal, never addressing the fact that loose behavior will probably earn you an HIV-AIDS diagnosis, or any other STD associated with promiscuity. Also, the world really doesn't need a glamorous spin put on the life most single mom's experience, equating to a potential lifetime of poverty. I could go on; but, I won't. It's too draining.
So, there you have it. Just as Murphy Brown (the show from the 80s) set out to show women are strong enough to carry the weight of parenting without benefit of a stable relationship with the father closed the door on an otherwise pretty decent show, so goes Act II, The Mindy Project.

UPDATE: I'm glad to learn that Mindy received a lifeline for her Project. She really is a talented artist. On further research I learned she is the brain-child behind this uniquely funny show. I simply hope she will set the 2nd best example and marry her live-in lover-boy before the baby arrives. Kudos.

Baltimore D.A. Bringing Charges Against Six Officers Proof No One is Above the Law

The video of a man in distress being dragged into the back of a metal cage on wheels, shackled and handcuffed, without restraints makes crystal clear why people have taken to the streets in mass protest. This response is not about one person, but all who have suffered abuse at the hands of those who take an oath to protect.

Prior to today, I had not seen the interior of the vehicle; but, having done so, it shakes me to the core as it takes me back to scenarios where black men are tied to the back of a truck and dragged to death. I believe in peaceful protesting, but, tonight I can more clearly understand the rage of rock-throwing and destruction of city property.

I'm reminded that this is how wars start, similar to those going on in the streets of Syria. People in power, abusing the little man, until a powder-keg response fuels beyond control. Thankfully in America the hope is in the judicial system that a jury of peers will decide the fate of these officers.

Totally unrelated, the seven teachers in Atlanta sentenced for cheating on tests, are just another example that people in authority are held to the same standard as those over which they have power; but, with a far-higher responsibility to model what to do and what not to do.

I pray that this family will be recompensed to the highest monetary-value possible, knowing full-well there is no payout large enough to replace a family member snuffed out in such a cruel way. Also, I pray that God is allowed to let justice play out in a court of law, and mercy for all the jurors who have the difficult task of sorting through the piles and piles of testimony to render a verdict of guilty or not guilty.

Clearly, Freddie Gray needed medical attention before getting into the van. Records show he needed EMT- assistance en route. Imagine 50 years ago before technology was as second-to-second as it is today. This may not have even been an afterthought. The i-phone generation is magnifying the eyewitness account, making the he-said, she-said story hard to deny.

What If Suspects Didn't Run From Police?

I've been trying to shake this thought since the Scott-shooting a few weeks ago. And before I could put it away as a moot discussion, this incident in Baltimore resulted in another death of a black man who, no two ways around it, fled arrest.

Law Enforcement 101 teaches that the arrest begins at the time of the request to stop; be it lights flashing in your rear-view mirror, or an indication you are being questioned on some level if you're leaving the store in pedestrian mode. Even though most instances don't require your Miranda-rights being read, technically and officially for that brief moment in time you are under arrest.

For whatever the reason, this latest man decided to run away from police. Does this not look like an admission of guilt? I can think of reasons why suspects flee, i.e. tossing drugs, weapons, outstanding warrants. On some level, running away is a strange, maybe subconscious profession of guilt.

It was broad daylight, not some dark abandoned alley in the wee hours of the morning. Again, in both instances, broad daylight. If neither of these guys would have run, more than likely they'd still be alive today, possibly in the slammer, and the National Guard wouldn't be holding a city under curfew. I am not saying that rogue cops don't exist. If you read my blog you know my belief that the rogue-mentality can exist in any profession. But, a decade and then some into this new millennium, African Americans should stop responding as slaves fleeing a master, getting hunted down, caught, and suffering the ultimate punishment for an act of defiance, i.e. running away. I think too, in the protests, people need to stop raising their hands as if to say "You got me, I'm unarmed, ready to follow orders to be arrested." I know this stems from some spin on the Brown-shooting; to make the statement,"Don't shoot." However, make some posters saying something to the affect; instead of holding your hands in admission of 'guilt'.

New laws should be enacted that if you run from police, you rack up a charge that makes a mandatory five-years just to deter this 'nonsensical' and life-threatening behavior. And if in the commission of your being arrested you end up deceased, families get no compensation based on your decision to flee arrest. Some people say the guy in New York, Garner, didn't resist arrest; but, if you look closely at the video, he did. When told to put his hands behind his back, he began moving away, trying to start a conversation of 'why'. That is a legitimate question; but, it doesn't give you the right to not obey the order. Too much can happen, even death, if you drag out the inevitable trip to jail.

Aside from new laws, police officers need to go into foot-traffic mode and adopt the programs that have been effective in other cities. It will also make less than upstanding citizens want to join law-enforcement. I can't help but believe some of the shady dealings on play-cop TV shows might not be spilling over into real-life events, and totally unacceptable in real life.

The weekend is upon us. Protests are planned. The media seems as vipers hoping for the volatile. I, as most everyday Americans, should pray for peace. Maybe even have a prayer-march through the city streets this weekend. That should make the major networks lose interest. Blessings all, blessings. 

Tis the Time of Year Teachers Ponder Walking Away From the Profession

Teaching is a ministry. It is not for the faint of heart to work with children who come to the table with problems most people can't begin to fathom. People call it burnout when they simply have more desire than energy to carry out the passion, not so much because of the children, as much as the red-tape and hoops the socialist agenda requires. Prayerfully, you'll join, or start a group sharing how change can be created. Your story is not unique, as you stated. Change starts with refusing to sign a contract which says you have to teach to a test. Change starts with calling Congress in droves to spark discussion for change. Teaching to the test is synonymous with giving kids meds for ADD: Big companies are making millions which helps keep the hamsters (teachers) on the wheel to do the impossible: Bring a non-reading 5th grader to grade level in 9 months, permeating the belief that the teacher and the learner failed. Hopefully summer break will refresh you, and you'll give it another try (for the kids). Of course, if your wick is spent, I genuinely understand and hope you find something as rewarding. Few things are. I believe once a teacher always a teacher. So, somewhere, maybe Sunday school, you'll find yourself teaching youngsters. They need a loving person. Sometimes teachers are the only love they experience. Sad, but you know. After all, you wished you could say...Best for you. I'm here if you need to talk. I'm here.

Note: This was sparked by Washington Post article:

 http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/wp/2015/04/25/teacher-what-i-wish-everyone-knew-about-working-in-a-high-needs-school/

Toya, Toya, Toya, Girl! Count to TEN!!!!!

Okay, first and foremost Praises to God that Baltimore's civil unrest has ceased. Thankfully, too, to know that the majority of the trouble was caused by the may I say, not surprising, hormones-on-steroids teens. Mind you, I'm not making excuses for them; but....some can hit the rewind button and realize those were some fueled years for people who later turned out to be really responsible parents and citizens.

Moving from that point to the gist of this post, I tried with all I had not to watch the video of the Mom who opened the can on her son, in public I might add. Not that doing this in private would be any more productive, I watched the video. My reaction was as most people's, but it's clear she's doing something right because a lot of children might have floored the person throwing blows.When I saw this happening I thought she might end up with a domestic violence charge; but, to my surprise this afternoon when signing on to the news, she's a hero. Who would have thunk it? My goodness. She's the person you want with you if you get lost in a dark alley. No, just kidding, or maybe not!

To you Toya. I understand your frustration with a misbehavin' teen. I know your fight to keep him on the straight and narrow. However, if you rethink this, I'm going to ask this be the last time you ever raise your hand to him or anyone else; barring self-defense, of course. My kids are well-past the teen years;' but, I had a puberty rule, which I enacted long before that. Bottom line, I do not believe a child who has entered the pubescent years should be physically punished, not even a tap on the hand. I think there are too many things that can be taken away, i.e shoes, pods, games, privileges. The message you sent was, dare I say?...wrong. As a mother I understand your frustration, so I won't belabor the point. I know for a fact you, as most mothers in these difficult years, are doing the best you can. I think by the pictures this 'child' might even be a father, clearly a grown man. I know you love him, and did what you thought was best; but, uhm, let's try re-phraseology here...this was not the right thing to do.

In closing, good luck Toya on finding a gig. I'm sure now that you've gotten face time, and a viral YouTube video, you probably won't need a job for long. I'm very concerned that we send a detrimentally wrong message when we 'lose it' with anyone; but especially people we love. The goal is to teach those who we're here to mentor (our children) a better way. For a fact, violence isn't it. But, again; not judging because you did what you did out of love and the frustration of a defiant teen's behavior. It's a new day. Your actions have made you a hero. But, unfortunately a 'smart' child will see this and call 9-1-1, and CPS in one swoop to have a parent arrested. So, guys, this made good YouTube; but, I wouldn't recommend this behavior in everyday settings. I wouldn't recommend it at all. Peace. And again, Praise God for peace!

Baltimore's Act A Blatant Mockery of Everything Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Died For

Okay, America. I’ve avoided writing about the Baltimore civil-rights debacle. But today’s looting of a local pharmacy makes clear my premise that it’s not really all about the latest suspect’s alleged demise at the hands of police. Thieves looting a store and criminals destroying city property is about something totally unrelated to protesting an unjust act. I could only shake my head and wonder who was missing in the development of these bad actors’ lives? Clearly, I saw people taking advantage of a situation and stealing things that clearly….exhale…breathe, Mytu.

Protesting is one thing. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ‘s peace-movement was effective because his non-violence proved on what side of the fence the problem rested. His ability to verbalize the need for non-violence created change. I’m not sure who is leading the civil-rights movement today; presuming there is one; but, they are failing miserably at promoting peace.

It almost seems as if there is an undercurrent of fabricated chaos that is unraveling every attempt made in the 60s to right wrongs. It’s good there’s a curfew. Right now, I’m thinking good luck with that. I’m literally shaking my head. I am at a rare loss for words.

It almost makes me tempted to question if African-American males on the wrong side of the law aren’t possibly putting themselves in suicide-by-cop confrontations that resort in their deaths, spurning unrest among the people. I’m simply saying the scenarios seem to keep playing out the same way. At the bottom line of each incident the suspect resists arrest on some level, or foolishly attempts to grab an officer’s firearm, or worse, points a threatening weapon at a cop. None of those scenarios are wise.

Some might argue relevance, but in each of these cases, the offenders’ families will be the wealthier. Tonight the streets of Baltimore are overflowing with disaster.  People who rely on selling goods at the game venues are losing money tonight because a pro-game had to be canceled. If this city continues to be under civil arrest the pro-teams will simply hold their games in other arenas. The people with the money will not lose; it’s the little guy trying to make ends meet who will suffer.

As I watched the mayor’s press conference, I saw background video of a lot of youngsters being somewhere they weren’t supposed to be. Let’s see…it’s Monday…a school day? Or did I miss the memo: A funeral shut down classes?...Maybe so.

Guardians of youngsters, tonight you OWE it to them to teach that resisting arrest will not end in their favor. Nor will fleeing, or attempting to flee…Prayers for peace America. Prayers for peace.

Suicide of Child-Star Sweeten, Clearly a Light Shining on a Quiet Epidemic

Teen suicide is on the rise in the United States. Most recently, child-actor Sawyer Sweeten, 19, ended his life. While disturbing, it's far from shocking. Life is difficult. Life is complicated. Life is many things that can make a person question a reason for longevity. But question we must.

The Bible alludes to after-life existing in both heaven and hell, beyond this physical presence on earth. Examples include the evil man who begged that his brothers be warned about the wrath of hell; and, Elijah in heaven being called from the dead, asking why the person chose to 'bother' him (Luke 16:28, 1Samuel 28:15).  The Bible even alludes to strong men who died by falling on their own sword (1 Chronicles 10:5).

Some consider suicide an unpardonable sin. The Bible does not support this as truth. Yes, the sixth Commandment says 'Thou shalt not kill." But, Moses murdered a man, even fled to the countryside to avoid punishment; but, clearly God pardoned his sin (Exodus 2:11-15). There are many other Bible outlaws who murdered that God went on to use for His Glory and the greater good.

Personally, I don't believe suicide is the wisest choice. Your heart is beating for a reason bigger than what's going on in your life right now. I grew up in a culture where therapy was only for the insane. Thankfully, this ridiculous myth is lessening; but, even so, it is reported that funding is far from adequate, explaining why so few people seek and receive help. Certainly, credentials for the helping-profession need to be less stringent when working with clients expressing non-life-threatening concerns. Also, liability and costs for service should be lowered. Of course, this means fewer dollars to Big-Pharma and, a close second, the fat coffers of colleges and universities; so don't hold your breath.

To the Sweeten family, my condolences. On behalf of everyone who has recently lost a loved one, particularly to suicide, my condolences. Why God doesn't intercept some acts is one of life's many mysteries.Most likely, the answer remains shrouded because its far beyond our ability to process. In the days, years ahead, a family will find strength, hopefully in faith and spiritual counseling, to not so much understand, but gradually accept that suicide is a choice.

My inner-therapist would love to know if he was on prescription meds for mental help. This seems to be the go-to solutions for anyone admitting to anxiety on any level. I am a believer in the holistic-approach to healing; getting to the root of the problem is imperative to grasping the solution. Clearly, happy-pills have consequence and should be used for stabilizing a client, not creating dependency.

Allow me to end with this thought: Jesus ministered to many. He didn't write synthetic prescriptions as the answer for healing. But, He did point to ways one could be healed. For this reason, the APA might do well to shed more emphasis on a faith-based approach to helping; though, again, it's not likely they will.

Blessings all. Hold on for the journey. Yes, you are right! Life is messy and murky; but, we have to trust that as long as God keeps our heart ticking, we should fulfill HIS purpose. I wish I believed in easy-way outs. I don't. What's to say we show up on the other side prematurely, and the same aggravations on this side are waiting for us on the next. Except now, we hear the annoying echo: "NOW WHAT???"  til our official death date. For the sake of all beloved, push through adversity. TALK TO SOMEBODY! I hope it's me. I'm always here. If your purpose is blurry, ask God to give you clarity. He will.

Here's a link that might shed some light:
http://jasonfoundation.com/prp/

Sometimes Praying For Lost Family Members is ALL You Can & Should Do

I am not a fan of social media. It opens portals that one might not know otherwise about a family member or members. It is said that curiosity killed the cat. If it didn't kill it, it surely probably caused more trouble than it desired. In this case, I'm the feline. While taking a break from the online-job-search process, which I also am not a fan of, I dared take a look at my estranged nephew's page. Oh dear. I cried. Literally. I also fled the page realizing that running did not absolve me from actually doing something. Of course, prayer is the first thought that came to mind. Had he been involved in the over-the-top behavior many young males go through I might have chalked him up to 'sowing his oats.' But, no; this was something far worse; from the dark side, that I never would have expected from a child who went to parochial school and church long after most had fallen away.
I'm convinced that something happens when your mother dies; especially if she dies before you get your footing as an adult. I could be wrong. His darkness probably was closeted long before social media came on the scene. Long story short, this lost man is a member of the occult; and all the debauchery you might find associated with it. I actually wrote an email reaching out; but, honestly, I can't bring myself to submit it. I'm sure it would be thousands-times worse than talking to an addict who's not ready to give up his/her darkness. I'm sad; but, acceptant that this is what it is; and, I will pray that God in His Mercy will save this child (nearly 4 decades old) from the depths of hell he has chosen.

A Pastoral Viewpoint: This dispels the myth: Once Saved always Saved. I think one can make a decision to eternally become prodigal to God and His Son Jesus Christ. Just as satan made his decision and was booted out of heaven eternally, I think man can fall into this same abyss. In fact, Jesus said, some fell away and no longer walked with Him, to which He said they were of no use to Him and the Kingdom (John 6:66). Of course, I'd love to know what you think. Final thought: Where there's life there's hope. Lift up prayers that this child will be saved from eternal damnation. Blessings to all!

No One Told Me That The Older You Get, Bad Hair Days Become Bad Neck Days

There's no other way to say it. Young people, look in the mirror to your contented delight; because, the older you get the more you will stare at things you'd rather not look at and try in vain to rid of; namely wrinkles. AHHHHHKKKK! Anyway, yes, it's over. I have reached the age that barring plastic surgery or botox I will have to make peace with my neck's decision to relinquish the tautness of its youth. The thought of someone jabbing a tool so close to my jugular and lipo-suctioning pockets of fat from my chin is far more frightening than I am courageous. I have expended more money than I care to mention on topicals; and, so yes, if any women 'of age' have any beauty tips they want to share, I'm all ears. In the meantime, I am going to go and make peace with the inevitabilities of heredity, aging, and life.

DISMAYED

After reading an article detailing what college-faculty have in common with McDonald's employees left me feeling, the title of this post. How many people, who should be looking at retirement in a few years, are realizing that because of pie-in-the-sky hopes that an additional degree would net a better salary is only going to net them additional years looking for a way to make ends meet while paying student-loans? REALLY?

Are there any serious contenders for presidency yet? If so, how can they not redefine the goals of the education system and the TRILLION DOLLAR, out-of-control, runaway train, called STUDENT-LOAN DEBT; which is clearly a SCAM if defined by most Americans. After reading the article, it is clear that the majority of people wearing the noose aren't benefiting; and, because it's not being stopped or forced to derail one has to presume the government or big business or someone other than the little guy is making a haul.

I am also the title of this post about politicians announcing their presidential-candidacy-run at a particular Christian university; which is a major recipient of students on the student-loan ride. How refreshing it would be if religious universities denied the student-loan boat ride down the river by reminding applicants of the Bible-tenet that the borrower is slave to the lender.

I won't write anymore. I'll just be more the title of this post.

Regards. And if you are a high-school senior and have no means to pay for college, be happy. Join Peace Corp, work at Wal-mart; apply for college til someone gives you the means. DO NOT JUMP ON THE STUDENT-LOAN TRAIN!!!!! If you do, you will be the title of this post. I GUARANTEE!!!!! :)!!!

By the way, here's the link to the article:

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/heres-what-college-professors-have-in-common-with-mcdonalds-workers-2015-04-15?reflink=MW_GoogleNews&google_editors_picks=true


After reading, you will be the title of this post.

Scott-Shooting Update

Okay. I have the answers. Late-child-support payments will land you in the slammer, unable to maintain your job, and eventually getting you further behind in payments. But, what does running solve? Doesn't that just add to the charges when caught? What a mess. Children without a dad; even though now a lack of money probably will never be their lot in life. While running was wrong, shooting a man, clearly running away from you, in the back, eight times, indisputably wrong, for lack of a better word. This is a tragic and bitter scenario. The downside of allowing one's self to watch the unfolding is you can't just hit the delete button in the mind. You're now on the hook to make a statement of 'write' and wrong. Whatever the unseen details, no one deserves to die running away. No one. Sad day in America, America. Another sad day.

My condolences to all left to grieve.

Okay, I'll Ask: Why Did Scott Run?

I know, I'm potentially walking into a hornet's nest here. I've done that a time or two before. So, here goes. I brought myself to watch both videos: the routine traffic stop, and the aftermath. In the video where the officer walks up to the car and asks for essentials, I thought, okay, nice and respectful person. A misdemeanor taillight malfunction is usually met with a 24-hour warning ticket to get the problem corrected. After all, it could happen to anyone. Most people gratefully thank the officer for the head's up, the problem is corrected, life goes on. And then, there are the oddities of life; people who RUN.

I will admit, for days I didn't look into this incident; only heard in bitter sadness via online radio-news sources eight shots fired at a man on the run. I'm thinking a 20-something-year-old kid who panicked, took off on foot; being totally unjustifiable to be shot in cold-blood, in the back. Quite obviously, yesterday when I realized it was a 50-year-old "senior citizen," I could only shake my head and wonder, WHY DID HE RUN? Clearly, there is never a reason to run. You're just making it more difficult for everyone involved. If you have legal problems, know that the gig is up when 5-0 tags you. You're it. It's time to go to jail. You will not pass Go. Okay, I digress on such a serious matter.

I am sure if Scott was here to do that scene all over again, he would face the music and know that a few months, maybe even years, would not be the end of the world. Again, I ask, "WHY DID HE RUN?" That's it for part one of this discussion.

Now to the problem, as sad as it is. The video blocked crucial details. I saw an officer take off behind a fleeing suspect. Most officers want to go home at the end of the day, and running behind suspects whose i.d. they have possession of, is not worth the run. The car would have been impounded. The passenger (correction) would have been questioned, probably released, and suspect on the lam would be caught in a few hours or days. This officer would not be in jail charged with murder, away from his precious family; and the suspect would probably be alive and getting ready to face the music, or not.

Back to the video. I saw an officer obviously plow down an unarmed man. In his defense, he says the suspect tried to get his taser. I can't confer or dispute that, considering the instrument was on the ground. I saw him handcuff the suspect in order to 'secure' the scene in case the guy with eight gunshots might be on PCP and get up and go round two. Now the problem. Allegedly, the suspect attempted to grab the officer's taser which ended up on the ground at; let's say Point A. After the body is cuffed, a few feet away (Point B), the officer returned to pick up the taser from the initial point, and clearly walked over to drop it next to the body of the deceased, and cuffed, suspect. Oh no. Then in a manner that left one asking, 'Did you just see him just do that?', the officer leisurely picked up by the taser, returning it to his person. Oh dear. Thus, the murder charge.

My sorrow goes out to both mothers. I presumed the mother of the suspect was in her 40s or 50s; but no, her son was an old man who obviously had not learned the value of protocol in a traffic stop. Running is not an option. It just makes life harder for all. The mother of the officer is clearly in shock. My prayers go out to everyone involved. SOMETHING went terribly wrong in this routine traffic stop. I hope there's video of what happened in the alleged altercation.

Word to the wise: Officers want to go home at the end of the day just as everyone else. They have families. They mow lawns. They attend Little-League games. Yes, there are rogues in any profession; but, overall most police officers don't want drama. It's clear, the traffic stop showed a respectful person trying to do his job. What made him 'go rogue' and 'plant' evidence makes the hidden part of this story almost, well clearly, MOOT. What happened? WHY DID HE PUT THE TASER BY THE BODY? I'm sure the defense will come down to disorientation in the heat of the moment; but, don't let me play attorney here.  One thing's for sure: Both mothers lose and, in life's irony, the mother of the suspect will never want for a dime the rest of her days. Sad, and true. Believers, let us not just talk about this. Let us lift up prayers for all involved. Amen.

Note: While editing this piece, heard a news update where other innocent African-American-male drivers, obeying protocol, without provocation, fell at the mercy of this officer's taser. Dear God. Have mercy.