Here Is Something To Think About: The Lord (Word) Is With You

 

Image by: DHSpeller Thoughts of a Disciple

[Reprint of WordPress blog post of January 2023 (edited) ]

 

“And the Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded: and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The Lord is with you , while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.” ~II Chronicles 15:1-2

The above scripture reminded me how important it is to "think on good things".  ^{Philippians 4:8}
Remembering John, Chapter 1 which teaches that God is Word; and that Word gives life, we can encourage ourselves so that we can keep pressing towards the wins in our lives. 

Now, here in the Chronicles, it alludes to the fact that if we stick with the Word, it will be with us.  Yet, when we move away from the Word, it seems to move away from us—which technically is all about perspective (because we know that the Word will never

I am Thankful and Grateful

 

Image by: DHSpeller Raleigh, NC

[Reprint from WordPress Blog of June 28, 2021 edited]

Recently, I had a thought session.  I was wondering if I could be disappointed, dissatisfied; yet thankful and grateful all at the same time.  And, my conclusive answer is, Yes.  This is how…

First, I am very thankful and grateful to Word/God for life, health, and strength; and the ability and power to do what I must.  At the same time, I recognize the current state and situation that I find myself (which constantly changes).  Sometimes, that leads to frustration, dissatisfaction and disappointment; but, I work hard at NOT murmuring–

About Wilmington North Carolina & the News and Observer

 

Image: PBS "American Coup" film 

I watched the documentary on PBS called American Coup.  I think it is a bit of history everyone needs to watch. As a matter of fact, it is the stuff that a good movie is made of.  If it wasn’t real, you could swear the best fictional writer wrote it.

It sheds light on what really happened in the nation and the lies told or truths omitted to shade the history of America. 

 

To my surprise,  it seems the News and Observer newspaper played a big part in creating a racial division in the state of North Carolina. Although they  "apologized" in 2006 for their part in conjuring the racial divide and civil unrest… a freakin’ coup!!!  I wonder if they could do more now to help in the ongoing process of

If Trump Wants To Be A “King”, We Should Treat Him Like One

 

Hear me out.  We are going about this all the wrong way.  The King of England literally does nothing regarding actual governing. That is how we should treat Trump and his royal court of idiots, abusers, and harassers, until they are voted out in 2026 or 2028, whichever applies. Then we should abolish that itsh forever, and make sure enablers of such foolishness are never in power again.

When you know and realize that there is an abuse of power going on, people in positions of authority literally are obligated to not obey unlawful orders. And with Trump, not following set procedures, or the law, that is exactly what should happen.  He and the Republicans have been taking liberties with the law and power that do not benefit as a whole, the American people; and we should isolate them by not following the unlawful orders they are proceeding to give.  Just don’t do it. Removing a woman’s right to choose is a prime example of overreach for Trump and the conservatives. Doctors should have

Abuse of Power… And Dereliction of Duty Are a Terrible Combination

Image: AI generated Microsoft Design

I was sitting here thinking and as I was looking over Trump’s previous presidency, and the presidency that he's about to go into. The whole thing looks like an abuse of power.  One definition of abuse of power given by the NCJRS Virtual Library is "the misuse of a position of power to take unjust advantage of individuals, organizations, or governments."

From the first day that Donald Trump took office, and even the time prior to him being elected the first time until now, everything about him and the Republicans that support him; and the people he's chosen as staff, have all been involved in a very large scheme to abuse power.

All of the crime that he has committed, all of the laws and he is broken, and the grifting he has done--everything has been an abuse of power. That's what he should have been impeached on the first time; that's what he should have been impeached on the second time; and that’s what he should be impeached on in the future because he ain’t learned shit.

He doesn’t want to do better. He hasn’t listened to council. He tries to intimidate judges and anyone

3 Things I Hope We Black People Start Doing

 

As I have been listening to the aftermath of the 2024 Elections, through it, as throughout all of history, people bring us up in the mix.  Often the conversation goes into the topics of what we didn’t do and what we should have done, all while ignoring what we've already done in support of this American experiment.

 

 It’s obvious that people are constantly in the affairs of African Americans. Be it culture, music, religion or just conversation, people discuss (and sometimes speak for us—when they can’t find their designated mouth pieces, they’ve anointed to represent us) and tell us what we are thinking as if we can’t speak for ourselves.  It’s time for all of that babbling to cease.  Three things that I hope Black people start doing are:

 

1.      Speak for yourselves clearly and often. Even though you may not get invited to a show or platform that has millions of viewers, use your own social media to be heard. Disregard the naysayers and criticism. Get your message and opinions out there!  Crude, fancy, plain or simple. Communicate. People are going to have something to say regardless of what you do. And although it may appear no one is paying attention, someone is always watching.

2.      Learn to use your personal power. In 2024, it is time to hold people accountable for how they are treating you.  You don’t have to go along to get along.  Nor do you have to settle for scraps.  If others can expand and prosper, so can you. Learn to work with Black businesses and keep some of the wealth in our communities. If you are not satisfied with a good or service, then tell that business what it is you have an issue with—and please let it not just be the “price is too high” excuse.  You’ll spend whatever

Republicans Are Failures to The People They are Supposed to Be Serving

 

The crowd of Republicans in office now are the type of people that will throw a rock and hide their hands.  They’ve been that way for quite some time.  What irks me the most is that Democrats are letting them be that way.

If it were me, every day I’d let the American people know that Republicans voted against every bridge being built, every small business being started, and every Social Security check being mailed or deposited.

They have no regard for you or your mama, and don’t give a damn if FEMA comes to your rescue because they are planning to “defund” everything except tax cuts which the are looking for kickbacks from the donors, they are planning to give them to.

I’d point them out at every ribbon cutting or grand opening ceremony for the frauds that they are; and

The Main Difference I see Between Republicans and Democrats Is That Republicans Are Willing To Do Anything and Democrats Are Willing To Do Nothing

 

Image: Bing - ARRA News Service

For years it seems like Republicans have been willing to skirt the law, make up things along the way, and even test the boundaries of norms just to get their way. Democrats on the other hand, sit back and believe that just the mere law being written on paper is enough to keep the evil away.

Now that the Supreme Court has been taken over by the right wing injustices; and the House, Senate and White House have been seized by insurgents and insurrectionists, Democrats are slowly starting to see the light. 

If they could stop arguing amongst themselves about why Kamala Harris and Tim Walz lost--which, I think they actually ran pretty good race, they might be able to grow a spine and make a difference for the 2026 elections.

If they could finally realize that a large percentage of the nation still have prejudices that they need to

It’s Already Starting… People are Giving Trump Every Ounce of Their Energy

 

Image: Microsoft Stock Photo (edited)

My thoughts: If people spent as much time and energy researching the woes that would come along with Trump before the election, they wouldn’t be hyperventilating now.  Just as they did the last time, it seems like people (especially the press), are starting to give Trump every ounce of their energy; before they lose access.

Because if you remember, they stopped having press briefings altogether at one point, to reduce even the appearance of any visual of accountability.  It all seems to be madness. Stressing every hour of every day about, “what will Trump do next”.  Like it’s a tv show or a game.  They get high off the adrenalin rush that they don’t get from their mundane lives.

This is the wrong way to get that rush people. Acting ignorant and allowing your prejudices to show, only reflect badly upon you as an individual.  Even though you tried to do it in the secrecy of a voting booth, it showed up in the final results of the election.  I truly am hoping everything turns out fine—but running a

The Democrats Are Doing What Democrats Do…. Panic!

 

I’m already hearing and seeing Democrats fall into the trap of panicking over other people’s problems.  Stop it!!!  Hispanics decided to vote for Trump; and now Trump’s Project 2025 is being announced of going into effect on Day 1 of his administration—so says one of his spokespersons, as reported on MSNBC; leading with the deportation of millions of undocumented people.

I say, that’s a fight between them and the Trump administration.   We need to focus on making sure regular civil rights are not violated and help them in ways we can (along the way) as we pursue our goals.  The game Trump plays is to get everybody worried and flustered and focused on things that are an aside to something else they want to do.  Hispanics have ample organizations to help them fight that battle.  Far more than African Americans, it seems. Though it may seem a bit uncaring, it is not. 

I’ve noticed in history that when blacks fight for their rights, in a way, everybody benefits—often more so.  The time has come

Wow. Trump Won…So what will Republicans Try To Do Now?

 

Image: AP News on November 6, 2024

Sad, but the true nature of “America” showed up during this election.  So now that the Republicans will apparently have full control of the government in 2025, let’s see what they plan to do and how much of Project 2025 will try to be implemented. 

It looks like too many people tried to be clever.  Voters across America tried to hold on to the piece of cake they were eating, especially in Florida, and may have lost it all.  Florida voters overwhelmingly voted to support Abortion and Women’s Healthcare rights but guess what…they could not reach the 60 percentile that was needed to make it the state law.  So, by them also voting for Trump, they gets nothing, nada…zip; at the moment.

I also think other changes are on the way too.  With Trump’s Postmaster General DeJoy still on the job,

Beware of Companies Trying to Sell You Gold and Silver

 

Image Resource: FDIC Online Image

It seems like every time elections come around or something that might have an effect on the economy, some company(ies) start with the “buy gold and silver” commercials.  The more commercials you see, the more you should suspect there might be a possibility of a scam afoot. And it’s usually supporters of the right wing.

I don’t want to name companies here, but I would encourage you to do the research for yourself and elderly relatives who might become victims of the schemes.

Any company that is not FDIC insured should be considered a problem for you. Your money is not protected.  FDIC stands for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.  It’s the independent agency of the United States federal

If People Can’t See How Much of A Problem Trump Is, Let Them Be

 

I personally think it is time for all of the begging, pleading, and cajoling to cease. If people can’t see or refuse to remember how bad Trump and the Republicans were for the average American, then forget about them and focus on the voters and support you do have.

This is a repeat of the 2016 election. Everybody (now including me) spends all their time talking about what that idiot of a buffoon is doing instead of moving forward.  If you are going to talk about him, discuss how it seemed like every day there was a made up self-generated crisis that stressed people

I Have A Problem With All The Extra Civilians Sucking Up Money That Veterans Could Be Getting Directly—My Current Rant

It is understood that Service Members fight and defend these United States of America.  We have a civilian President, Vice-President and other officials who have rank over them in leadership roles.  No problem.

My problem is with the extra civilians that are hired in the VA, DFAS (Defense Finance and Accounting Service) and other important agencies who haven’t served a day in their lives and have no idea what Service Members actually go through.  If they want a civilian related job supporting the military, at least they should join the National Guard or Reserve so that they can have an idea of the full experience.

There are more than likely millions, if not billions of dollars that could go directly to veterans without going through the extra layer of bullshit.  As a matter of fact—the VA Claims department could be eliminated altogether.  Telling anybody who went through the minimum of Basic Training that there

Price Gouging Is Real Regardless of What the “Free Market” Says

Image: Microsoft AI Designer generated

The topic of Price Gouging has been in the public square lately.  In an article I saw online entitled Supply and Demand or Price Gouging? An Ongoing Debate, from the Harvard Business School Online, price gouging is simply defined as when companies raise prices to unfair levels. VP Harris has mentioned that she will address the issue when elected President as she should—as any President should have already been doing. 

Getting back to the article, I found it interesting because it was a clear explanation of how supply and demand works (on of the pillars of our economy) and how price gouging plays a negative role.  Visit the article mentioned above.  It is very enlightening.

I think businesses who take unfair advantage of their customers should be prosecuted.  I also think we as consumers are not necessarily powerless. We could decide not to pay the high price some businesses charge; but that is often labeled as ‘boycotting’ when it’s really not. Businesses need to get the message

Roanoke Cashie Center Video Post Explore

Image: Rest Area outside the Roanoke Cashie Center

So, today, I'm practicing adding more video content to the site! 👀  You are probably aware that I have a YouTube channel and I want to start building it up along with my blog.  I have old,  I mean vintage videos from places I've visited and businesses I've interacted with that I thought might be interesting ...at the very least good practise in adding content.  

Today, we are looking at the Roanoke Cashie Center in Windsor, North Carolina.  It is a preservation

I Think Unions and Employment Agencies Should Have a Paradigm Shift

Photo by fauxels on Pexels.com

[Repost of May 29, 2021 WordPress post]

Unions and employment agencies both serve a good purpose in the workforce.  Now, however, it seems like there is a void that is not being filled, and somebody needs to fill it.  Many workers have their resumes out there, but either the pay is too low, or in areas where workers aren't currently located.

What if, unions, employment agencies and these workers networked and created viable co-ops?  With a slight change in operational procedures unions and employment agencies could help workers organize

Federal Black History Month Site

[Repost of my March 17, 2023 WordPress site post]

I was researching for Black History facts recently and ran across this site called BlackHistoryMonth.gov.  It's a site sponsored by the federal government and has quite a few links to different resources.

The site is primarily for February, the official Black History Month, but since I'm doing Black History Month--all year, you can follow the link above to visit the site anytime.  They have amazing resources under the "Exhibits and Collections" menu link and the other videos and audio selections are very interesting too. 

3 Reasons Why The Entire Republican Party Is Responsible For Our Current Problems

  

Image: AI Microsoft Designer

I’ve been watching the news and listening to coverage lately.  To my surprise, nothing is changing. It’s amazing and evident to me, that news reporters and talk show hosts –(and more likely the network themselves) have some type of affinity to politicians.

It is always a “both sides” comment added to try to shade or bias the actions of the conservative right (Republicans). And ironically Democrats usually don’t seem to have the backbone to stand up for themselves.

Maybe it’s because Republicans still try to hold on to the old but faint truth that they were the party of Lincoln; and Democrats use to be the party of the Dixiecrats before they all went over to the Republican party.  Whatever the reasoning, in my opinion, it has been a very long time since Republicans have done anything that was good for the American people.  And, these are 3 reasons why I think Republicans are mostly responsible for problems we have in America now.

1.       Anything we try to do for people collectively, Republicans try to tag it as “socialism” and welfare. Technically a lot of things that are done in America for the common good could probably be described that way. In doing so, they block and discourage anything that is meant to help the poor and middle class while at the same time they are glad to help the wealthy and wall street get anything they can from the government in the form of loans, contracts or breaks (which is also "socialism") because they are the ones who normally donate to their campaigns the most.

2.       Though they try to say they are fiscally responsible and morally beyond reproach, they be doing the most to disrupt government and the American way of life. Often their tax breaks and give aways to the wealthy explode the fiscal budget and cause more problems in the long run. They want to cut social programs like Social Security or Medicare all while blocking legislation to get the wealthy to pay

3 Reasons Why This Is The Perfect Time To Rethink The Favored “Two Party System”

 

Image: Microsoft Images

Technically, we have more than just “two” parties in America.  We always have and more than likely always will.  So, it is time our political processes recognized that fact. Everyone does not want to be a Republican or Democrat. As a matter of fact—there are more non affiliate and independent voters in America than either of the main parties.

Having said that, I think all party or non-affiliated candidates should have the same access, resources and limits during their candidacy. Meaning, they should all have the same set of rules to follow, the same amount of money they spend on total campaigns; and limits on how much TV and other platform advertising that can be done. (They should learn to use social media to promote themselves like everyone else—send people to your “link in bio”.) 

Although it is too late for this cycle, now is still the perfect time to make critical and drastic changes to the electoral and voting process.  As I’ve stated in other posts, all Americans who desire to participate should be allowed to be involved in the primary electoral process—in a neutral and fair setting. In my opinion, we should look at implementing things like:

1.        Rank Choice Voting.  Rank Choice Voting would allow voters to select their first, second and third (or more) choice of candidate and would help with the overall selection process.

2.       C-SPAN should be the Official Network for the Public. Networks tend to want to please who they perceive to be their audience. C-SPAN on the other hand, is a different type of platform.  It is somewhat neutral, covers most of the events of the House, Senate and White House along with

Do You Know How To Back Up or Clone Your Computer?

Backing up your personal files can be very important so you won't lose your personal data.  There are several ways of creating back ups-- be it on local medium or the in the cloud.  But, what if you want to go beyond that?  I have been wondering for a while on how to back up my whole computer.  Meaning everything. I like how my programs run, I like how I have my drives are set up; and the way I can flow during work. And right now, I don't ever want it to change.  

I was searching on ways of doing that and it turns out "cloning" my own system might be the way. Cloning is the process of making an exact copy of your computer as it is at the time of the clone.  So, if your computer went down, theoretically you could insert the drive into your computer and keep working just as if nothing happened. During my search for answers, I ran across a YouTube channel called

One thing is for sure, VP Harris and her team are putting in the work.

 

Image: KamalaHarris.com Campaign

We don't know how the vote or election is going to turn out at this point, but one thing is for sure--she is putting in the work. I am a non-affiliate voter, and I like progressive issues that are for ordinary people.

And I must say, she is incorporating a lot of them in her campaign. I know she can't do it alone, and she'll need somewhat of a "progressive congress" to help pass things into law; but the point is she is or appears to be open to signing a lot of positive things.

If Joe manages to get a cease fire, and a two-state plan in Gaza—which, shouldn’t actually be that hard, they will be well on the way to another term in office.

And honestly, at this point—Drs. Jill Stein and Cornel West should help in the process and welcome it.  If they can’t do it themselves, at least be civil, if not kind to the person who is at least speaking their language.  Then after the election, start immediately working on your issues! It is not that hard to

Can We Stop Calling These Meetings Debates? It Was More Like a Pseudo Inquiry. 5 Things about the “Debate” -- Trump vs Harris.

 

Image: C-Span Capture

In my opinion, debates are when two people state their position and go at it—trying to convince an audience to favor their side.  These tv show debates are meetings or gatherings that are bent towards getting ratings more so than facts details. So I wish they would just call it that.  Two people asking all the questions and the two participants not even addressing each other, again… is not a debate. But, I digress.  Let’s get to the 5 Things.

1.       It should have been a Town Hall event. It would have had the same effect for the networks as far as trying to get ratings; and real people could have been asking questions.

2.       The Moderators didn’t moderate.  Letting Trump still talk whenever he wanted, with a muted mic you could still hear him through was not moderating and dumb. It is my opinion that his mic and his mouth

Let’s Talk: What Do you think about a Progressive Union, instead of a Progressive Party?

Image Source: Pexels.com

 As some of you may know, I really wanted Dr. West to be a contender for the presidency this election cycle. And truthfully watching the process has been painful. Like Bernie, and at one point Jill, I enjoy supporting people with progressive ideas.  But I hate that the energy their campaigns generate always seems to fizzle out when they either lose or become no longer viable as a candidate in their march towards November.

So, this time around I started thinking about what could be done to both capture and sustain the progressive movement regardless of victory or failure of the candidacy. 

I propose that a progressive political union be created.  Though it seems to generally be used to unify small states or entities, I thought it could also be used to unify individuals and organizations/parities who don’t have enough power of their own to make a big difference immediately.  In my opinion, it would be the exact vehicle needed to move ideas and causes forward—across political parties and directly into the purview of the voters. 

So many ideas and issues could be addressed through the political union platform. Members could

4 People Who Can Educate You About Republican Lies Concerning the Economy, Race, Culture and Other Things

Often, when we black creators feature other black speakers, orators or professors, it is said that we have an “agenda”.  Which is really not necessarily true.  Fact is, we just want to get the truth out.  Today, I have a treat for you!  These are four other people who also have information to share.

I often see information on my timelines from Thom Hartman, Rober Reich, Jane Elliot and Tim Wise.  Their information is well presented and resourced if you listen to what is said. 

I curate content for different play lists on my YouTube Channel.  It’s still a work in progress, but it’s coming along nicely. Today I'm starting to add specific posts on the blog that discuss aspects of

I've been in the "lab", learning about other platforms and trying to work out a plan...

Image: From my "North Carolina Politics" discussion video on YouTube

Yep, Republicans in North Carolina are relentless in trying to take away your rights and bringing legislation that is horrible for regular people…

Hey everybody!  I know it’s been a few days since I’ve posted: but I’m still looking into the older posts to convert them as well as working on something new!  I’m working on my other social media platforms to try to incorporate them better into the mix.

My thought is to begin introducing videos that I have either on my site or a playlist that I created for discussion.  Also, I’m hoping that along with checking out the video, you’ll consider following me on that platform as well. 😁

As you might already note, I have integrated general widgets/plugins in the sidebar area; but these specific type posts are to draw your attention to a particular video or issue I wanted to talk about.

This week, I’m taking a look at an older video that discusses a continued issue in North Carolina surrounding politics.  Elections are coming up and it is important that we be informed about the issues.  For me, the act of voting is important.  Putting the right people in charge increases the chances of

It Is Time For An Education Overhaul

 

[Repost of May 14, 2021 WordPress blog]

Yes.  It is time for an education overhaul! All my kids are grown, but I'm still interested in the overall community and how to advance the ideals of education; full, and truthful education; education that includes the histories of ALL people living in America.  I like the thought of public education, but, I'm becoming more and more a fan of Khan Academy, and programs like it too.  Mainly because of the what ifs.  You know, things like:

• What if nothing changes to help those who are disadvantaged in the regular school system and learning environments?
• What if kids get expelled for perceived "behavioral reasons"?
• What if another disaster or pandemic happens?

The teaching must go on! We can't disrupt learning every time something happens!

This is why I favor any technology or program that will allow kids and people to continue to learn.  I

Growing Your Own Food Might be Worth the Time Investment

 

[Repost of August 31, 2022 WordPress blog-edited]

Last year [2021], I tried an experiment to see how hard it would be to grow my own plants and food.  I got some supplies from Amazon... (growing medium, jar cups, and rocks) and other supplies locally… (soil, pots, etc.).  It wasn’t as hard as I anticipated to start the project—but the effort came in being consistent and knowing what to do as the plants began to grow.  If you travel or are out of the house a

About Your Blood Pressure

 

As you know, I like to explore all types of topics and information.  Today, we’ll take a quick look at information about blood pressure. First, let’s explore blood and what it does.  ¹Blood has two primary functions.  It delivers oxygen; and carries away carbon dioxide and other waste. ,

²When the heart beats, it circulates blood by pushing it through the blood vessels.  The amount of

Listen Closely-- People Can Vote for Who They Want

 

[Reprint and edit of my WordPress post of September 18, 2020]

It’s that time again. Democrats are starting to blame other people for their failures, and possibly the ones coming in November. So, I’m here to give my opinion on the matter.  I’m here for that.  But first, a few housekeeping notes.

1. In my opinion, Republicans are low grade criminals. They should all be voted out and all of them should be held accountable for disastrous policies that the nation currently operates under.
2. Democrats are also liable. They try to give the appearance of operating above board but have criminal tendencies as well.
3. I am a non-affiliate voter and am an astute observer of the process. And, what I have observed so far, I don’t like.

I don’t like

I think Progressives are the Adults in the Room

[Edited reprint of my WordPress blog post of December 10, 2020]

Yep, I truly believe that Progressives are the adults in the room called, our country, the USA. While modern day Republicans are the bullies and Democrats are timid and scared, Progressives, for the most part play the role of the adults.

Progressives don't really want to bothered by the bickering but eventually-- we have to engage. The Republicans want to keep all the goodies for themselves and their friends and some Democrats want the same, but pretend that what they want is something for "the people". Real Progressives

America Spends a lot on "Health Care"... but doesn't really have any

 

Photo by Cottonbro Studio on Pexels.com

[Updated repost from my WordPress blog of April 30, 2023]

It's amazing to me how much money the U.S. supposedly spends on #HealthCare, but doesn't have a good system to support its citizens.  Another solid effect of #cronyCapitalism.

I read a great, short article that explains the difference called, “Are Health Insurance and Healthcare the same thing?”  In my opinion, they are not.

If we are going to spend money on health care, it should not go to bailing out insurance companies.  It should go directly to the people, so they can work directly with doctors.  And, if a 'system' of payment

About Being a Democratic Republic

 

“A democratic republic is a form of government operating on principles adopted from a republic and a democracy. As a cross between two similar systems, democratic republics may function on principles shared by both republics and democracies.” 

~Wikipedia                            

Some Americans see our form of government as a democracy; others view our government as a republic.  Both have elements of truth.  Our government was formed as a federal democratic republic.  We have adopted elements of both a democracy and republic.   Personally, I think that is pretty awesome.  In the Resource section below, I have a link to a general Google search that explores the topic in more detail.

As a citizen, I love the concept.  I just think we need to “tweak” the edges a bit and firm up on all the

Politics: We Must Make Republicans And Democrats Minority Parties In Congress

Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com

[Repost of my WordPress blog of June 10, 2021] 

In my opinion, since both the Democratic Party and Republican Party included many conservatives who were against civil liberties of all people; they both technically are Republican, and neither represent the people as they should.

I am going to lay this out in its simplest terms because this is how it was revealed to me.  Politics have always been relative to money and power.  But at some point, back in the day, the Republicans, the party of Lincoln, got involved with fighting to end slavery.  Eventually, those in the Democratic party who were fervent in their efforts to deny people their earned rights, took over the Republican party; leaving the Democratic party as a weaker version of the Republican party (because they all didn't leave). 

I truly believe the Democrats in their current state, are far better than Republicans, but they often 

Mainstream Media is Messy

 

I was watching the Morning Joe show today and they are already trying to create pit falls for VP Harris (as I am sure other media outlets are doing the same).  This has always been something interesting to me.  Why do they usually go for the messy embrace?  Sure, smut sells. But at least try to have some sore of balance real time.

Bringing on someone to rebut what was said afterwards—even if it is a few minutes, or seconds, afterwards-- is too late.  Combine the time and let’s get into some real fact finding.  “Oh, if we did that,

My Quick Take: Secret Service Director Cheatle Resigns

 

Image: Created with Microsoft Designer

Several news outlets are reporting that the Director of the Secret Service resigned; probably, as well she should. But, I wish before she did so, she would have given Congress a piece of her mind--for all of her team.

I wish she  by stating that with Donald Trump's mouth, she is surprised that it hadn't happened earlier.  It's hard protecting someone who is a divider, who won't following directions, and who won't shut the hell up.

He constantly lies and brings divisive energy; which brings danger to everybody around them.  Who wants to rush out to protect someone like that?

She should have brought up the fact that Donald Trump likes people with AR-15s and other destructive

It's Interesting that the Higher You Are, The Longer It Takes to Bring You To Justice

Photo: Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

[Repost of my WordPress blog post 10 May 2023]

It is interesting to me how hard it is to bring these Republicans to justice.  From Donald Trump, to Clarence Thomas to George Santos (if that's his real name).

All the while, police are being judge and jury by executing people in the streets and not even giving them the opportunity to get to trial!

Our legal system has never been that great, but now it's straight trash.  And, this is what happens when

God is Not a Man... Numbers 23:19

 "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said and shall he not do it? Or, hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?"

~Numbers 23:19

[Repost of my WordPress Blog May 6, 2021]

It's been a while since I've written any inspirational notes or encouragements here.  I think about them a lot-- internally, but just haven't put anything down.

Today, I have something for you to think about from Numbers 23:19.  "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said and shall he not do it? Or, hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?"  …Awesome-- in so many ways.  But the long and short of it all, I believe, is that God (YHWH) is saying, I'm different.

For a while now, a concept keeps coming back

It's Not So Much What Others Think, It's About What You Believe

 

[Repost with edit from Blog of December 9, 2009]

It's not so much what others think. it is more about what you believe. I was reading in the book of Matthew (Chapter 8).  A particular passage of scripture stuck with me, because it read true.  “Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee”, the verse read.

The preceding scriptures were a couple of parables that described how faith operates.  Basically, the requirement to make “faith” work is “belief”.   As I re-read the scriptures a few times, I was fascinated how easy it was for some people to believe just because they do.

One of the parables was about a centurion who asked Jesus to heal his servant who was some distance away.  Jesus said okay, and had offered to go to the soldier’s house to heal his servant.

Creating Something From Nothing... of Sort

 

[Repost from Blog of March 22, 2010 with updates]

Many people find themselves unemployed because of economic problems. My encouraging word today is: Don’t be totally discouraged by what you have lost. You still have your talents, skills and abilities. You have not lost them. I encourage you to use the “Entrepreneur” approach. Create something from nothing.

For instance. If you worked in the banking industry, you may have the skill to assist others in qualifying for loans or help them understand the basic workings of the stock market.  Or perhaps you were a

Learning How to Be ‘Always Ready’ [a different take on an old post]

During my military days, I was once assigned to a unit who had a motto of, “Always Ready”. (Tish was cool as hell when everyone snapped to attention and yelled it out-- …was a lil bit corny tho…) It was a training unit and I believe the ethos behind it was that, as an individual and collective as a unit; we should always be ready to contribute to the accomplishment of the mission.

Therefore, being mentally, and physically prepared and present were essential in meeting goals.  Even during personal crisis, you had a contribution to make.  Now, I wished I learned how to totally apply that to my overall life.  I was great at compartmentalizing as I think many were.  It helped me to

Learn Something About Your Social Media Strategy-- 4 Things to Consider

It’s important for every business owner to learn something about their social media strategy. Even if you don’t want to worry yourself and prefer to farm everything out.  At least know what platforms you are using and how to perform one of the tasks.

Blog, tweet, post, take pictures, or do something that will get you involved with the process so that you can become familiar with that aspect of your business.  These are four things to consider:

1. It will help take some of the mystery and anxiety out of the technological mental block you may have.
2. It will help raise your confidence level when talking to others about social media.
3. You will gain a new skill and perhaps a new hobby.
4. Only you know your business like you want it perceived. Being able to talk about it or painting the picture you want seen will help craft the brand you desire.  It might not be perfect—but “writing the vision and making it plain so that others may see and run with it” (Habakkuk 2: 2-3) it real.

Being self-reliant in at least one aspect of the social media arena is very empowering.  Using that

I Think We Should Work Harder at Getting 'Work From Home' and 'School From Home' Right

[Repost from my November 10, 2020 WordPress Blog site]

Personally, I think we should work harder at getting Work From Home and School From Home right.  The pandemic was and is rough.  It's not the first nor will it probably be the last problem in this 'brave new world' we are facing.

I think many people have looked at these two solutions as temporary fixes as opposed to working on them as long term cures that could potentially help out a lot of people.  Do you think people like driving 20 - 30 miles to a job where they only make between $7.25 and $12 an hour?  Especially if they could do the work from home?

Home schooling has actually been around for a long time.  This period has been an opportunity

Ford Motor Recalls 552,188 Ford F-150's ...Year Model 2014

There is a loss of signal between the transmission output shaft speed sensor and the powertrain control module.  The report I read said this could cause a downshift, regardless of what speed you are going.  This could cause loss of control of the vehicle.  This is for the 2014 Ford F-150 model being recalled.

Ford recommends that you take the vehicles to the dealership for updating of the powertrain control module.  

Resource:  Reuters Article Dated: June 25, 2024. Ford to recall more than 550,000 vehicles, US safety regulator says.

Who Is Willing To Be The Last Crab?

 

[Repost of an article from my January 7, 2011 Blog]

“…like crabs in a basket…”… A derogatory remark, normally associated with a group who is either fighting against each other; or who is trying to hold others in the group back so much so, that there is no chance of progression.

I heard this term used the other day in a sermon at a church meeting. As I was sitting; listening, I began to think;

I’m Not a Fan of Self-Driving Cars or Self-Aware Robots

First, I just wanna say I'm a big fan of technology. But, not so much of 'Self-Driving' cars.   As I have said time and time again, I think technology should assist us...not replace us or the things we do.

I admit, it’s kind of intriguing and exciting to think that we could travel down the road while the car drives itself.  But, I believe that kind of technology should have limitations and parameters to insure the overall safety of others.  We already hear about how early attempts of self-driving vehicles are causing some accidents; and honestly with new technology—that should be expected.

But, why can’t we be content with the integration of technological advances with the skills of human drivers?  Some companies have taken that approach with the park assist functions and lane monitoring.  I’m fine with that.  It helps real drivers avoid accidents and keeps everyone safer on the roads.

What I’m not good with is allowing a non-thinking or non- feeling object have total control over itself

I think "Personalized Education" is going to be the new "School Model"

 

Pixels.com Image by RF Studio

With COVID still going on, it’s possible that there will be more home schooling, or distance learning.  I've spoken on this before; but I’ll talk about it again now.  I believe we really need to rethink how we educate in America.  In my opinion, designer, self-paced, personalized education is going to become the norm.

Acknowledging Reasons to Consider Personalized Education

I agree that there should be national standards. A basic, minimal core of topics should be taught and mastered.  But, the way that they are taught should be subjective. In my opinion, a few things need to be considered.

• Some schools weren’t that great prior to COVID, in educating students.
• People often learn in different ways.
• People catch on to concepts and learning material at different speeds and sometimes it’s better in different settings or learning environments.
• History.  More actual history should be taught in America, not less.  Information about slavery has a place alongside teaching about the Holocaust--and I would argue even more so. Also, the way Native Americans have been depicted throughout history books is appalling--and should be corrected. 

Possible Changes to Address Issues

Having said that, I think the ultimate role teachers and instructors will play is that of a coach or counselor to the learning experience.  And, perhaps the brick and mortar school buildings will