Good Article About the Way People See Things!

Jon Stewart is back. The former “Daily Show” host came out of retirement to join his old colleague, Stephen Colbert, on CBS’ “Late Show.”

He said:

“You feel that you’re this country’s rightful owners. There’s only one problem with that: This country isn’t yours. You don’t own it. It never was. There is no ‘real America.’ 

You don’t own it. You don’t own patriotism, you don’t own Christianity, you sure as hell don’t own respect for the bravery and sacrifice of military, police and firefighters. Trust me.

I saw a lot of people on the convention floor in Cleveland with their ‘Blue Lives Matter’ rhetoric who either remained silent or actively fought against the 9/11 First Responders Bill reauthorization. I see you, and I see your...” 

Source: Ed Mazza

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/jon-stewart-republicans-own-america_us_5791ab2fe4b0fc06ec5c843b?section=

Good point, Jon. When people point out how bad others are, they can’t see their own faults.

Get well, Dorothy.

More Displays From My Niece!

Rest In Peace, Don! July 6, 1968 ~ July 19, 2016 (age 48)

Carol, you and your family have our deepest condolences!

It's Hard to Let Go!

For Some People It's Hard To Let Go Of The Past!

Get Well Soon, Dorothy!

Grace and Mercy!

Mercy & Grace

Mercy withholds the knife from the heart of Isaac.

Grace provides a lamb in the thicket.

Genesis 22:11-14

Mercy runs to forgive the prodigal.

Grace throws a party with a robe, a ring, and a fatted calf.

Luke 15:20-24

Mercy hears the cries of the thief on the cross.

Grace promises paradise that very day.

Luke 23:39-43

Mercy converts Paul on the road to Damascus.

Grace calls him to be an apostle.

Acts 9:1-6, 17

Mercy keeps us out of Hell.

Grace takes us to heaven.

Ephesians 2:8-9

And the difference between mercy and grace is this . . .

Mercy withholds from us what we deserve.

Grace gives us what we do not deserve.

Romans 5:20

Tom Clay..What The World Needs Now (Abraham,Martin and John)

This might seem new to some of you, but always appropriate for all of us! We still need to hear this message. There have been so many lives lost to violence due to hatred.

Stay strong, Dot! You're in my prayers!

I Moved To Chicago VLOG/ Week 1 Update

And More Displays!

More Great Looking Displays From My Niece!

Words To Remember When Having a Rough Week!

Keep going until you see what the end is going to be. Linda E.'s Mom.

Words of wisdom and advice help us make it through is life. Mine.

Hang in there, DB.

Teria Mone Internship!

I'm posting my niece's first models. They will stay on the floor until next week! I am so very proud of her!

Great Job! Check out her You Tube Sessions under the same name!

Rest In Peace, Muhammad Ali!

In Memory of...

Today is Memorial Day. A day set aside to take a moment to remember the unknown military soldiers who gave their lives for this great nation and never returned home. Some people will question why would they or they died in vain. Those that question has that right because these brave men and women did not die in vain. They died for a bigger purpose that many will never understand. We have to remember what they died for, us.

Side note: I want to include our first responders, law enforcement, EMS, the fire department personnel and all those who sacrificed their lives to keep someone else alive. The rest of you, enjoy your bar-b-que!

Happy Mother's Day!

A sincere Happy Mother's Day to all moms who give their all for their family and are continuing to give even when they are not always appreciated! You know who you are. You are the ones who are hurting and still hurting emotionally, physically and financially and doing everything you can to show family unity. Some of you can hardly move because of physical ailments and still cook, clean and wash while there are able-bodied people in the house who think of themselves. When they should think of the sacrifices that you made. You are the nameless heroines, but the people in your world will!  Ladies, I salute you!

RIP, Billy Paul!

Billy Paul, who sang “Me and Mrs.Jones”, died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 81.

Rest In Peace, Prince! 4/21/16

Holy Thursday!

Pure love from the heart does not need an explanation! Prepare for Good Friday!

8 Year Anniversary and Your First Easter!

Time really flies! 8 years has passed since mom's transition. She loved Easter and Holy Week. In fact, she held on until the day after Easter. Christmas and Holy Week were her favorite times of the year.This is my brother's first Easter since his transition. Despite, my losses, there have been more gains, but most importantly, I have strengthen being faithfully focused in the Lord, My God! I will always miss them, but they are in safe and peaceful place, painfree and love filled!

Rest In Peace All Fallen Heroes That Gave The Ultimate Sacrifice!

We thank you for your dedicated service and commitment to protect and serve!

Tell The Truth and Shame The Devil!

Get it straight, people. President Obama is not the “Great Divider” as Donald Trump wants you to believe. The so called “Unifier” has quickly forgotten that he was part of the birther group who heighten racial tensions to divide America as soon as the President was elected.  Now, the “Divider” is continuing at his campaign rallies by exploiting good people’s dark sides. And some of them see things from their side only, even though they may not view things equally. A unifier stands up for his wrongs and does the right thing. One good thing coming out of this mess is the overhauling narrow-minded Republican Party.

POTUS, We Have A Problem!

Associate Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia was found dead at a ranch in West Texas on Saturday.  The 79-year-old jurist apparently died of natural causes after attending a private party of about 40 people at the Cibolo Creek Ranch, according to reports. Scalia went to his room Friday evening after telling friends that he wasn’t feeling well, and died in his sleep, CNN reported. His body was discovered when he failed to appear for breakfast Saturday.

Before the man is buried the conservatives has already determine to block the President from nominating a new replacement. What a shame! They are not interested in the American people only in their selfish interests. They are hoping that the new President would nominate another conservative provided that the new President would be a conservative. However, the Republican Congress would rather go a year with a vacant seat on the Supreme Court. There are enough issues pending but obviously they don’t care. And if a Democrat is elected, once again, the same old hold-ups in Congress will repeat themselves. Congress is an embarrassment.

RIP,  Justice Antonin Scalia!

Go Red!

City Hall, Columbia, SC 2/5/2016

Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths among women each year, killing approximately one woman every 80 seconds.  Fortunately, that can change that because 80 percent of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action.

And don’t forget to make heart health a priority. Schedule a prevention check-up to review a woman’s overall health so a doctor can measure blood pressure, check cholesterol and look for signs of heart disease, stroke and other illnesses.

Visit Go Red's website!

Rest In Peace, Maurice White!

Maurice White, born on December 19, 1941 in Memphis, Tennessee, died in Los Angeles on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at the age of 74. He was one of the founders of Earth, Wind & Fire. The icons of funk, rock, soul and R&B. Everyone had their special song(s). I liked them all, but my two favorites are Devotion & Reasons.

Subaru Dog Tested | Subaru Commercial | Puppy (Extended)

Rest In Peace, Mrs. Mack!

Margaret Mack, 78, died Monday, January 25, 2016 at her home. She was the wife of Mr. Roy L. Mack. Services entrusted to Rich-Colonial Funeral Home. What a beautiful woman! God bless her family and loved ones!

 www.rich-colonial-funeral-home.

Why It’s Sometimes Best To Keep Your Opinions To Yourself!

We have all been around someone we thought appeared intelligent until they opened their mouth. Then again, we also have been around someone that is attractive but behaved otherwise. But, we do know that both can be an embarrassment. Don’t open your mouth unless you know what you’re talking about. Do your research and understand the basics of your topic. If you don’t, you’ll only look like an idiot unless, you’re that far gone that you are only fooling your dumbass self.

Case in point, a certain celebrity's opinion about the Academy Awards. That's all it is, an opinion, but she is absolutely Clueless!

Happy Birthday, Momma Bennett!

Blessed with the grace of 94! Love you!

What's Happening This New Year | New Year's Resolutions!!!!

Blessing Out Of A Tragedy!

I haven't been much of an uncle while my brother was living. I didn't stay in contact with my nieces or nephew. I don't have an excuse for it. After I met them at his memorial, they immediately treated me as if I have always been there for them. Forgiveness can put a major guilt trip on a person. Since then I decided that I will never let myself be separated from them anymore. It is imperative now that I stay in continuous contact with them and be as much of a part of their lives as I can. We talk or text several times a week and I enjoy it! Tonight, I realized just how blessed I was when I heard from both of them within 5 minutes of each other! I can't tell you how much that really meant to me. My brother passed and I feel like an Uncle! God is awesome!

Rest In Peace, Natalie!

R&B singer Natalie Cole, who followed her famous father, Nat “King” Cole in the music business with hits like “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) and “Unforgettable,” transitioned at age 65.

Happy New Year!

May this year be all that you want it to be for all things that are good!

Merry Christmas!

Another First!

We all have firsts in our lives. First word, first steps, first kiss and first love. You get the message. We can go on and on even outside of our lives to historical moments, etc. My first Christmas without my mother was years ago, now it's without my brother. Yes, I'm sad but I'm not the only person who has a list of firsts. So, this Christmas, let's look back and cherish the moments with our loved ones or the people we loved and be grateful for them, Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

I get these inspirations most of the time. Some are really thought provoking and some are tear jerkers. I don’t know who wrote this but it’s a good story! This is truly another Christmas Story!

Thank you, Stephanie, you never stopped sending me these after all these years! I am grateful!

Two Babies in a Manger

It was nearing the holiday season in 1994, and it was time for our orphans to hear, for the first time, the traditional story of Christmas. We told them about Mary and Joseph arriving in Bethlehem. Finding no room in the inn, the couple went to a stable, where the baby Jesus was born and placed in a manger.

Throughout the story, the children and orphanage staff sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word. Completing the story, we gave the children three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins I had brought with me.  No colored paper was available in the city.

Following instructions, the children tore the paper and carefully laid strips in the manger for straw. Small squares of flannel, cut from a worn-out nightgown a lady had given us, were used for the baby's blanket. A doll-like baby was cut from the felt we had brought from the United States. The orphans were busy assembling their manger as I walked among them to see if they needed any help.

All went well until I got to one table where little Misha sat. He looked to be about 6 years old and had finished his project. As I looked at the little boy's manger, I was startled to see not one, but two babies in the manger. Quickly, I called for the translator to ask the lad why there were two babies in the manger. Crossing his arms in front of him and looking at this completed manger scene, the child began to repeat the story very seriously. For such a young boy, who had only heard the Christmas story once, he related the happenings accurately - until he came to the part where Mary put the baby Jesus in the manger.

Then Misha started to ad-lib. He made up his own ending to the story as he said, "And when Maria laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay.  I told him I have no mamma and I have no papa, so I don't have any place to stay. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn't, because I didn't have a gift to give him like everybody else did.  But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, ‘If I keep you warm, will that be a good enough gift?’ And Jesus told me, ‘If you keep me warm, that will be the best gift anybody ever gave me.’ So I got into the manger, and then Jesus looked at me and he told me I could stay with him—for always."

As little Misha finished his story, his eyes brimmed full of tears that splashed down his little cheeks. Putting his hand over his face, his head dropped to the table and his shoulders shook as he sobbed and sobbed.  The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon nor abuse him, someone who would stay with him - FOR ALWAYS.

Jesus came so that we could be His children – for always.

Unknown Writer

Happy Birthday, Sagittarians!

Especially, Nana, Judy, Charliss, Mae, Hazel, Leslie, Carolyn, Bobby, Cindy, Chris, Jean, Vivian and many others I have forgotten to mention and have moved on. God bless you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cherish the moments with the people you care about.

God's Pie

Rest in Peace, Officer Stacy Case! End of Watch, November 7, 2015!

Stacy Case had been with the Columbia Police Department a little over four years, but had a previous 15-year career in the U.S. Army as a military police officer, where she was a veteran of the Iraq War.  She received several awards while serving her country, including the Iraq Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Award, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and a Good Conduct Award.  She died in a car collision answering the call of duty. 

Rest In Peace, Mrs. Annie B. Coulter!

The funeral service for Mrs. Annie Bell Coulter, 99, of North, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, at St. Mark United Methodist Church, North, with Dr. Thomas J. Bowman Sr. officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mark United Methodist Church East Cemetery. Such a blessing! God bless you and the family, LT!

Friends?

I took a shortcut today through a residential community and passed a former co-worker’s home.  I noticed a For Sale sign on the front lawn and men working on the home. She had risen through the ranks and moved to bigger and better opportunities in DC.  We never became good friends but we have held a few serious conversations at one time or another. She passed away a few years ago from cancer. She was a wonderful person but some might disagree.

I mentioned this to say that the few people we do consider friends, we don’t tell them enough how we appreciate them. I, personally, have that problem. I've always questioned myself why I don’t let people get close to me. It’s not the hurt that I’m concerned about, we’ve all been hurt. My concern is the loss of someone in my life that I care about. It’s draining so I build my walls.  When people care about me, I am reluctant to reciprocate. So, it’s easier to distance myself. It may be selfish. While I’m avoiding being hurt, I end up hurting them. Yeah, I’m a piece of work.

So, I move on without any explanations and accept the blames against me. I’m getting better but tell that to the others that I have already offended. My sincere apologies.

Happy birthday, Mom!

Thank you, Lord, for the time you gave us!

The Refugee Question!

Pope Francis, this past week was in Washington, DC, where he spoke to Congress and the United Nations in New York on climate change and immigration. This weekend, he is heading to the city of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, PA. He has been full tilt since he left Italy.

Let me say right now that the tales of refugees are being put in place right now. How, you might say? One group of politicians wants to shut down immigration and another want to keep the US doors open. Keeping the doors open comes with a price. Who are the doors being opened to? Who needs to be kept out? It could be to a lot of people who don't fit America's descriptions.

The tales spinning have begun. A conservative from upstate South Carolina stated on her FB page that, “According to the FBI, these refugees cannot be vetted. Refugee status means these people will be immediately entitled to a huge array of benefits … that our most vulnerable citizens, including women and children at risk, need.” I have heard already through various discussions that the refugees will not assimilate to the US but intend to change the US to a Muslim nation. True or false, only time will tell.

And the President will be still be blamed for all the bad things that happen.

h

Mission or Position?

Which is more important?

An Open Letter To My Baby Brother, 1954-2015!

March 2, 1954 - July 24, 2015

We got you back home, Austin. It’s been a challenging two weeks for us but even tougher for you and the years of suffering. You played it off with me as long as you could but the pain would not let you hide it any longer. I am so grateful that the children saw you in those last days. It wasn’t easy for them then and it definitely was not any better at your celebration. You have some beautiful children and I always thought you were so blessed to have them. You have a son that favors you and a daughter that favors her mother.  And a wife that is loyal and supportive. I found that so awesome! There is so much to be thankful for.

You would have been proud. Unity Mortuary conducted it with class and dignity. It was a fantastic tribute and the Colonel oversaw all of the details. I know, I have always called Melinda; Colonel. It was meant to respect for her rank. As you know, I am very proud of her for her military achievements and her soon to have doctorate. I never meant it to sound impersonal by not calling her Melinda. I enjoy calling her colonel. She provided the pictures for a slide show that included the family, you and mom. I saw a side of you that I never knew. I guess we both are private people and keep our feelings suppressed for fear of reprisals. I still have a tough time letting people in. I also know that we are both stubborn individuals. You never got a chance to meet April.

Devin and Melinda read some beautiful poems and Teria got up to stand beside Devin when he started to fill up with tears and struggled to go on. But he got it together. It was a beautiful tribute. Speaking of Teria, that young lady can truly sing. As you, mom and Nana look down on us with prayer, you will see her rise to fame. She has a lovely voice and that song she sang brought tears, shouts and thunderous clapping. It’s called “Hope You Can Dance.” Gladys Knight sang it in the “Family That Preys.” Lee Ann Womack sings it, too! Another song that stood out was “I Look To You” by Whitney.

Tia and your grands, Michale, Calim and I forgot the name of the oldest, made it. I had not seen her over 20+ years. I still recognized her as she, too, favors her mother. I told them all at the celebration that I will call them at least once a month to stay in better contact. I can’t be responsible for waiting to see our family during grieving situations. I need to also keep in touch when things are well. Our cousin Robert has always been that person. I mailed Aunts Babb and Dot the program.

It still hasn’t dawned on me that you and I can’t talk or disagree anymore. The movie “Kingdom Come” is on and I can’t help but think of us when we were kids and became adults. I am so grateful (blessed) that we reconciled last year but deep inside I am feeling the loss. When mom left, the world took on a different view, now there’s another view and it’s getting better how I view it. It’s hard for me to let go, Austin, it’s really tough. I couldn’t truly cry until 3 months after mom and I think it was a TV commercial that triggered it.

I have so much to talk about but even if you were around, I probably would not even think about it. I wonder why when people are gone from our lives we are ready to talk but not always knowing what to talk about?

The kids kept some of your ashes for their rings and bracelets. They spread the rest over the lake and Anderson. Jewelry that holds loved ones remains, never knew that. I’m getting old. I’m glad you’re back home, You will always be my baby brother, Austin. I love you!

The Flag is Down, July 10, 2015!

The Confederate Flag is Coming Down in South Carolina!

Yes, the law was passed after a long night of contentious discussion. For once a serious racial dialogue took place in the hallowed chambers of our state capital. The Civil War has been over but there were still some fighting. This battle was won between two opposing forces, heritage and pride, hate and fear, black and white, old and young and republican and democrat. It had to take the lost of innocent lives, specifically, nine, including one of their own to change the hearts and minds of the old guard. Amazingly, from the exact two three weeks of the Emanuel Nine deaths, the South Carolina legislature joined together to take down the Confederate Flag. To some it was a symbol of heritage but to many it was used as a symbol of fear and hate. The battle might have been won but the war will continue in the minds of many who will use excuses not to move forward but to remain in the past. A special thanks goes to the many who supported and orchestrated this historical change. God bless South Carolina and the United States!

9 Deaths, 9 Funerals, 1 Million Tears!

3 men and 6 women from 26 to 87 years of age shot down in the middle of worship. A place where it was thought to be safe for all, a House of God. Our prayers are with the Charleston Community, the National Community and the World Community! It is so very tragic that people still hate each other. Pray, brothers and sisters, pray! How much more will it take for us all to come together?

And The Buzz This Time Is ...!

I don’t hear much in the news about Miley Cyrus’s opinion relating neither being a boy or girl. Whatever sexuality she claims, it’s her business. But the big news buzz is about Rachel Dolezal, the current NAACP chapter president in Spokane, Wash., who was exposed for pretending to be a black woman. And this is news because a white person pretends to be black! Any news about any black person pretending to be white? How about a gay person pretending to be straight? I don’t have time for that. People tend to lean towards gossiping about other folks business but what about events that are affecting them now? Is the media even concerned about wars, jobs, health care, government obstruction, income disparity, racial inequality and cyber theft? Roadways and bridges are unsafe and are deteriorating and racial relations seem to be going backwards. The homeless population is growing and more veterans are committing suicide every day! Who will help these groups of people? These topics are just a few but they are much more important than worrying about what people believe about themselves.

Happy Memorial Day!

Thank you to those who have served our country and to the many more that supported, encouraged and lost those that did! Stay loving and proud!

William McDowell - In