Almost 2 decades ago, anyone could have told you that these kids had the major components to move ahead and become successful.  I didn’t share that train of thought.  Being foreign to the lifestyle of New York City was our major setback.

Back in 1986 when the movment of hip hop was now surfacing and an evolutionary change to the United States of America was in the making, there we stood.  Four brothers and sisters, not knowing what the future held but determine and willing to make it there.

  Merv and I looked distracted but comfortable that whatever we were looking at is pleasing to the eye.  Melissa is the one always focused and smiling while Melba swears to the a 2 feet miget kicking at her ankles.  To this day I don’t know what she was looking for.  But this is the image back in 1987 when we started our schooling.  Public schools were always available but my parents felt it best for a Private instuition with maximum focus on education.

Nevertheless, It was a blessing that 20 years later I could stand and pose in a picture with my Brother, Merv.  A man that I’m very proud of and even though I’m older than he is, I’ve always looked up to him.  He has transcended into a man thats modest in his undertakings and I’m so proud to call him, Bro.  My Sisters, Melissa and Melba, who has grown up to be lovely and caring individuals.  They have always taken care of their big brother and have never crossed the line or disrespected me, at least thats what I know.  I am happy that they have journeied so far, undertaking life’s challenges and obstacles, and pushing forward.  I wouldn’t want anyone else to call sisters.

I really want to thank God for giving us the opportunity to live life.  Life that he has set forth.  Its not a gift that will be overlooked.  Over the past few days we have come across several violent events in the educational departments in the USA.  The latest being the slaying of 33 students and faculty at Virgina Tech.  Those people woke up that particular morning like any other, but never returned to their beds that night.  And In our persuits to build that perfect exsistance, we sometimes get that wake up call.  I can’t help but think that one of those students could have been me.  But God rest their souls.

And to my Siblings and our chase of the perfect lifestyle, be safe and be well.  As you already know, My family comes first, like everyone else piorities, and I love you guys to death.  Continue to grow and be the beautiful people we are ordained to be. 

FREE 

For the past decade and so, My grandmother was relocated to Florida for extar care and attention due to her severe condition of Alzheimers.  Alzheimer’s (AHLZ-high-merz) disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities. As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may also experience changes in personality and behavior, such as anxiety, suspiciousness or agitation, as well as delusions or hallucinations. 

Even though this condition bother her extremely she still found the attitude to be……, well……. I guess, my grandmother, anytime I visited her in Florida.  She wouldn’t remember me or even know that I’m her grandson, but she still smiled and carry on like everything is fine. 

From since I can remember, she always greeted us with open arms, a warm smile and a giving heart, even when it was forbidden for her.  She was the best Grandmother a young man could find and she will be missed. 

Until we meet again, Aun’ Phil.  Prepare that place for me at your table like you’ve always done.  Love you GrandMa.

5 things men hate to hear:

“My last boyfriend…”
All we can say is, why? Why mention that your ex was a jerk? Why mention that you and your ex are pals? Why mention how great he treated you?  Why mention your ex, period? Whatever you say, all we will hear is, “I’m going out with you, but I’m still thinking a lot about another man.” Although men like to compete, they don’t like to do it in a relationship with men who aren’t even in the same room.

“Do you mind if I take this call?”
Of course we mind. We won’t say we do, but we do. So unless it’s a dire emergency involving your kids or grandmother on her deathbed, let your voicemail pick up. Trust us, an hour paying attention to your date won’t kill you.

“So how do you feel about abortion?”
This type of question is known among men as a litmus test—a touchy topic that women raise to gauge whether we’re politically, morally, or spiritually on the same page as them (the death penalty, gay marriage, and the war in Iraq also fit the bill). Sure, we probably have strong opinions. But we’re not interested in getting into them with you, at least not yet. After all, this is a date, not debate club. Let’s have fun and save more heated back-and-forths for later.

“And then I found this cute pair of sandals…”
Granted, you and your girlfriends can spend hours gushing about shopping, shoes, and new hairstyles. But you’re not out with your girlfriends. You’re out with a guy, remember? And same as how we wouldn’t subject you to talk about stocks or our favorite sports teams, please, do us the same favor.

“How do you feel about having a family?”
Pop this question during those first few dates, and most men will assume your biological clock is ticking fast—and that’s not a good thing. It’s not that we don’t want families, many of us do—it’s just that we like to get to know a woman first. And we like to know you like us as more than just as a potential baby-making machine. After all, where’s the romance in that?