SCOTUS Nominee Personal Vote Tallies Recommendation of 65-1

Today was one for the record books. It became a case of Ford v. Kavanaugh, or vice versa in believability of who did, or did not do, what was alleged.

Gut-wrenching best describes each of the participants on center stage.

Ford’s testimony of one beer at 15yo, and becoming a victim of sexual assault, made many women of all ages, silently harboring such a secret, feel heard on some level.   

Who could defend a SCOTUS nominee after such a heartfelt testimony? 

Life teaches to show restraint, and not get emotional when others put their hearts on the table. And, I have to say that in today’s testimonies I had to be all ears and leave my emotions out of the mix.

All said, I believe Ford was victimized. However, her inability to know how she got home from the party leaves me with one huge question.

How could it be, that on the night she was violated, she can’t remember who to thank for getting her safely home?          

AND THEN, after a couple of hours, the accused gets his chance to defend his name.

Kavanaugh has an impeccable professional record, with the blemish of a man who in his teens decades removed, sometimes ‘drank too many beers’ in accordance with alcoholic guidelines.

This brings us to the now; which, is what matters the most. In the now, whether this judge’s record is one that will offer sound judgments on legal cases rendering constitutional decisions is what matters.

Is his now record a reflection of the man he is today? A decision has to be made on whether this nominee will get a vote.

If I was a member of the betting community, I believe the now man will win the nomination. I do believe that the unsupported allegations of what he did in his youth will never overshadow who he is now, today.

I’m reminded of the teen years, and the words of Jesus: “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone” (John 8:7). This in no way makes light of Ford's trauma.

I couldn’t help but note the title Hon. before his name. Honorable is what this means. A total blindside best describes his experience with these ‘out of the blue’ allegations.

On one hand, we have a highly convincing female citing an alleged incident with no ‘there’ witnesses, and her friends denying recall of any such occurrences.

On the other hand, we have 65 witnesses, all female, citing a stellar record of this SCOTUS nominee. Speaking of stellar, this describes his record as a husband, dad, and member of his community.

I have my opinion; but, I’m not paid to be the deciding vote. Between Ford’s inability to remember how she got home from her tragic violation, and Kavanaugh being defined as a person who drank too much, makes it difficult, if not impossible, to ever base a deciding vote on today's demonstration of yesteryear's she said, he said; did, didn’t do it, discussions.

Stay tuned.

  

Some Events Should Be "Modify As Needed"

Be angry and sin not. That’s in the Bible. Jesus said it. Well, today I’m a bit angry, and I’m going to use this post to prevent my yen to spew venom, thus, (hopefully) sin not.

I can’t get the Inaugural Day Parade out of my thoughts, which is the root of my ire. Before I  go any further, I will preface this by saying the overall rating of the Inauguration 2017 ceremonies was a solid A. That said, I’m pointing at all the black pastors and Christian reps surrounding President Trump, who are serving as a prayer covering for him. These men and women are supposed to have his back, especially when things come down to the sensitivity of “race”.

I bounced in and out of watching the beautiful Inauguration Day events, and had to literally turn the television off when I walked in on gyrating women, in scantily-clad outfits performing in front of the 

First Family, with young Barron getting more of an eyeful than any child his age should see. (SMH) PLEASE don’t tell me anything about what he sees in his everyday life. You will completely miss the point. 

My heart dropped with Melania's, (and I’m sure many others with a compass of moral integrity), as I saw this otherwise cultural performance of big talent marching by. PLEASE don’t make me laugh by calling me racist. In fact, I’ll laugh just in case any of you dare even think that thought.

This is about morality, thus returning back to the black pastors and Christian reps surrounding 

President Trump. Someone needed to have more-critically vetted the parade lineup. I am very familiar with the cultural battle of the bands; and, love to see a great band performance as much as the next person. However, on this very honorable occasion, with a worldwide viewing audience, someone needed to have enough ‘courage’ to advise the band director that proper attire, befitting the occasion would be required. I don’t know what that attire would have been. Perhaps they could have just been flag-bearers for this occasion. I haven’t a clue. But, this provocative and exotic routine ruined the whole parade for me, and made the case that the moral fiber of America is in shreds. Do I think the ‘dancers’ should not be a part of the college bands? That’s a non-factor in this post; truly the least of my concerns at this moment.

This is about keeping family-appropriate events, family appropriate. This is about adjusting the attire, to be apropos for the occasion. It was clearly an uncomfortable moment for most people in the viewing stands; but, it’s water under the bridge. I felt as if some wanted to shield the eyes of the children; but, to 'save face' smiled and refrained.

In that moment, I wondered who posted most of the funds for the GoFundMe account, hoping this routine would be a blight on the day. I’m exhaling now. I’m sure I will continue to put this behind me, because there are enough concerns far-more pressing. So, dear Christian elders, representing Mr. Trump, PLEASE go on record: God is holding you accountable to step in when ‘race’ becomes a factor. Someone should have made arrangements to alter that leg of the parade, no pun intended. 

Many may say, I’m just being too prudish. Not so, far from it. It’s just that on the heels of this (SMH), “Million Woman March” I think it’s time women reevaluate the definition of how a woman should represent herself. I grew up in a world where morality mattered (a 'whole' lot). With that seed planted and deep roots formed, means even with all one’s imperfections, the goal is to stay with a strong moral high-ground.     

Trump Without Teleprompter More Raw; But Message Still Received When Scripted

On the heels of yesterday's cowardice act, I'd like to say prayers for all who were directly and indirectly affected by the heinous act. To shoot an unarmed person who is of no threat to you speaks volumes. I am so glad that I serve a God who tells me not to judge anyone, lest I be judged (Matthew 7:1). I am so glad that Jesus living and breathing on the inside of me lets me love even those who would be easier for me not to (2Corinthians 13:5). I am glad that I believe we should hate the sin and love the sinner (1Corinthians 6:9).
That said, I would like to suggest that we bring morning prayers back to the public schools. I would like to suggest that it become okay again to have elementary-aged students in detention write the Ten Commandments as 'punishment'. I would like to suggest that high-schools be run more as military academies than fun, carefree havens. And lastly, I would like to suggest that every male between the ages of 18 and 30, serve two years in a branch of the military, as required in China.
We are living in a 'new' America. Preparation is a necessary defense. Guns are not the problem. A hatred for our nation and what it stands for is. In a few short months, barring the unforeseen, I predict that Donald J. Trump will be our next U.S. President. His V-P pick should be someone who is experienced and poised. I wish it could have been Fiorina. Perhaps Jan Brewer, former Governor of Arizona might be on the short list. I really believe Ben Carson should consider the lead job in the Department of Education. If anyone could get the prayer conversation back in center-stage it would be him. As a product of the public-school system I think he would be a great asset to creating necessary changes to help youngsters succeed. Secretary of State should be someone with a strong Defense background. For some reason, Gingrich comes to mind.
That's it. Prayers for all. Prayers for all. 

Politics In A Nutshell

Yes, it's been a minute. And, yet so little has changed, in politics that is!  Several famous people have died, what for most of us seems prematurely. But the big news of the day remains politics. Hillary, Bernie, and Donald J. are in what sometimes seems like a middle-school raucous act vying for the highest office of the land. I have really gone round and round about for whom to vote. Because I am up to my ears in career politicians, Hillary is out. However, Donald J. is a big man, with a big mouth, and a big wallet. He is not used to losing, and is very used to saying thank you for looking out with the stroke of a pen to a blank check. His biggest blot is his inability to know when to 'shush'. Thankfully, today he has chosen to go mum on his stomp-down of the judge. Thank you. Clearly, there are a lot of people who are concerned that the judge is a member of La Raza. It's kind of like a judge who is a member of the Black Panthers or KKK. Ethical concerns stir. But, sadly, if he wasn't being sued for a less-than stellar job-producing online 'university' the judge would probably be his 'friend'. Speaking of less than stellar online colleges with poor job-producing degrees, I personally 'own' one of those 2-cent degrees from a university whose head guy says Trump is his friend; which sparks a reminder for a need for college overhaul. Donald Trump is clearly a flawed human being. With that said, aren't we all? Is he the best of the three? I wish I could clearly say without a doubt, YES! However, I've been reading Bernie's plan for funding college and health care. He wants to 'repay' the little man for bailing out the big man a decade ago. Hands up. I'm sure when November arrives and I enter the booth, it will come clear who will get the nod. As it stands, unless some major change occurs, the ticket will read Hillary v. Donald J.; which means the answer will be clear. We'll see.

President Obama Made the Right Call in Staying the Course

Oftentimes, life puts you between a rock and a difficult place. It is then that you have to make a call on the best thing to do. As an outsider looking in, I have to respect the President's decision to go on with life as-scheduled on his recent trip to Cuba and Argentina. As an outsider looking in, attending a baseball game and dancing the tango during a time when an ally was reeling from a terrorist-attack seemed insensitive. However, I was a bit miffed as to why the media was taking such aim against his decision when terrorist attacks happen everyday in various parts of the world. It was then I began to accept his logic with a bit less 'judgment.' I ask: Had the attack occurred in, let's say, Nigeria, would the media have been as appalled at the family outing to the game, or the tango in Argentina? Let me end by saying, 'sounds like politics to me.' I am certain that he was doing all he could; and, behind the scenes his staff was keeping him up-to-the-minute on the goings on. I must note that this media tear-down came minutes after he gave a beautiful speech uplifting an oppressed people. I am glad that he didn't allow the unfortunate attack dim his efforts to bridge two nations. Imagine him devaluing Castro by saying, "Gotta' go, I need to go back to D.C. to" ughmm...I don't know...watch the media's continuous loop of the same clip. Clearly, everything he was going to do in D.C. he was able to do from where he was. I close. As always, I can't end without saying how beautiful a couple, and family, the Obamas truly are!

Thanks to DJ Trump, Americans Are Energized!

I am energized by the passion of this campaign season. People are more fired-up than the Obama followers of 2008. Donald Trump will change the face of the Republican Party. When is the last time you have openly seen African-Americans rallying FOR a GOP candidate? As an Independent, I care not about the Party as much as the issues at hand, and the candidates' plans to solve them.  The Trump Express will really be representative of America's melting pot. It will be exciting to see if he chooses Kasich for V-P and Carson for Department of Education, with Christie as Attorney General. As we say in Texas, "YEE-HA!!!" 

Today I learned...

...that it's a lot easier to address six gray strands of hair individually than to open up a whole box of blazing red hair color to fix the 'issue'. Why is that men look less 'old' than women should their graying edges show? I don't know; but, as we speak, I am shopping for some neutral hair dyes to bring my hair closer to its original color. Lesson learned: DO A STRAND TEST!!!!! Actually the color is quite beautiful; but faaaarrrr too radical for my needs.

As With Every Reality in Life; Rally-Goers Should Have to Pay...

Any real-world human being knows clearly that NOTHING IN LIFE IS FREE. This truism should be applied to political rallies, namely those where, as in the past 24 hours, the goal of too many attendees is to cause disruption. In an odd kind of way, it reminds me of my days in the classroom. It only takes a handful of those with poor behavior to ruin an otherwise joyful time.

I'm convinced that the escalating melees at Trump's campaign events are being designed by people in higher-up places wanting to derail any chances of him getting into the White House. To blame him for a person's decision to ACT on what he says, speaks to the character of the person who acts. My opinion is a rebel-rouser only needs an excuse to do what is in his heart to do.

At the end of the day, the person in the driver's seat can decide how the ride will go. No one's asking, but I sincerely believe that Trump should limit all future rallies to people who have a direct link to his campaign, either through financial contributions and/or volunteers, and their friends and family members promoting his cause. Yes, the rallies may be significantly smaller, but authenticity over quantity would make for a safer and more supportive experience. Clearly, it is but for the Grace of God that no one has been seriously injured at these events. I think the Chicago-debacle should be fair-warning, and the reason the 'rules' of attendance be  changed. I dread the thought of how much worse last night's incident might have been had it been the 'dog days of summer.' As always, Mytu Sense...

Changing Rules in the Middle of the Game is Not Fair

I am one of those Americans who is really enjoying this 2016 campaign season. Well, I was, until a recent non-candidate chose to step in and announce a need to change the rules of the game. It doesn't flow that way; especially, this late in the process, if ever. I have shaken my head more than once over the past few weeks, acknowledging how thick-skinned one must be to run for public office. We elect a single candidate to take the 'blows' to represent our nation across the board.
I will say, I was extremely disappointed to see my 2008 pick spearheading the shakeup to derail the 'clear' winner of the GOP nomination. What message are we sending our youth when we try to deny the winner the merits earned for months and months of hard work? The person winning the most delegates wins the nod. At least those are the rules as most Americans understand them to be. I suppose the caveat is in the fine print. I seriously don't think Americans are going to stand by quietly to be told their candidate has lost the bid because of a 'caveat'. Without belaboring this glitch in an otherwise exciting campaign season, it seems at the end of the day that 'sour grapes' have found their way into the champagne bowl. A lot of people were bitterly reminded in Romney's recent speech, that eight years later is the result of a 'failed' GOP election that should have been won in 2008. Until this recent podium embarrassment many were hoping Romney would run again in 2024 after this year's nominee served his eight years in the White House. However, after this demeaning speech, I'm going to guess, not likely. This is the people's choice. A lot of foot-traffic and time has gone into choosing a nominee. Let's let the process play out, and, not try to spoil it for everyone. I guess I know now why Trump felt a need to input his own caveat at the start of this race: "...as long as the GOP treats me fairly." Speaking of fairly, the tax-disclosure is looming. It's difficult to be all in, when all the pre-qualifying papers have yet to be submitted. Oh well, with Carson out, my decision has been made, simply by a process of elimination. Click here to read more on my Facebook page. Without superdelegates, I think it would be a Sanders v. Trump vote; but, padded delegate-voting looks like it might be Clinton in the Democratic seat. Of course, it's not a sealed deal for any of the candidates. I can only pray for the day when explicit "riggings" are called out; and, the popular vote, the true vote of the people, wins!

Who Knew Race Was A Card to Be Dealt in the Game of Trump?

It's difficult to accept that 50 years past the Civil Rights Movement, the U.S. is still plagued with racial unrest. People showing up at, otherwise peaceful rallies, making race an issue is unsettling. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say, having never met him personally: Donald J. Trump is not racist. When he says he's a 'unify-er' I, imagine he's made a uniting deal or two.  Do I think he's temperamental? Probably; but, no more than any billionaire CEO. I guess, long-story-short Trump will more than likely be a President for all the people. Before this campaign really caught traction, I sensed he'd probably gain momentum. I simply couldn't have imagined how much; or perhaps I could have. His best choice for VP would be my 2008 first pick, Mike Huckabee. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. I sense that the GOP will look totally different in the next eight years if Trump becomes President. I think people will see the candidate more than the Party. Pandering to a people based on their race or religiosity is a bit off-putting in this age of multiculturalism. One last curiosity; why don't politicians pander to say, the Jewish or Muslims, the way they do to African-Americans and Christians? In a strange and eery way, courting to a race and denomination seems in and of itself a flagrant form of discrimination.

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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.