O King's Blog Spot

Rock Chalk Refuge

2010-09-04T10:57:00.003-04:00

Today is the first day of college football. Across the country student athletes are chomping at the bit to start their season. Their dream of a national title and BCS bowl at stake, nerves run high for these young people as they have put in countless hours for this season to start.

For three young people in Lawrence, I imagine they have a whole different set of nerves. As new head football coach Turner Gill leads the Kansas Jayhawks on the field for the first time. These three young people will still be catching their breath from a grueling 20 minute performance. As 300+ lbs linemen rumble the ground, they will wave their arms directing the band to the tune of I’m a Jayhawk. The crowd will clap and the beads of sweat will hit their lily white uniforms. Yes it is game day and time for the band to take the field.

They say you never forget your first time. This is true. My uniform was one size too small. It was constricting and did not allow me the flexibility I needed to truly perform as the other Drum Majors have in the past. Walter and Devin were both experienced and had warned me to be ready to sweat. I did not know that every ounce of me would be drained in a 20 minute performance.

The run in from the stands starts the first test. It started with a 70yard goose step that ended with a leap and salute to the crowd. Then, a 60 yard strut that leads back through the band as we perform the KU countermarch. With mace in hand, I was now conducting from the 35 yard line. My arms were rubber. I often saw drum majors in year’s prior conduct with one hand. I now knew why. Being out of breath was not to time to be waving a 42’ mace, but still I pressed on. 2 songs later and it was back to the strut. A 40 yard jaunt into the Sunflower Formation. With thousands of eyes upon me, my pregame butterflies have now been overtaken by a mixture of adrenaline and exhaustion. The noise of the crowd cheering you on excites you, living your childhood dream motivates you. I push on to do my best.

Conducting the Star Spangled Banner never seemed difficult. When you conduct it in a traditional way with a mace you find yourself wanting it to me much shorter. The Alma Mater was no different. As the big finish comes, I lean back as far as humanly possible. The ligaments in my knees begin to remind me of my basketball injuries and I stop pushing. I knew my limit and it had been past long ago. The Rock Chalk Chant became my refuge, an oasis in the sea of exhaustion. A strut to the sideline to finish catching my breath ended and I watched the band march off the field. As Devin gave the order to the two African American drum majors that flanked him, rose to a 40 yard goose step across the field.

I rose from my knees and took off my helmet. A mix of emotions was met with cheers from the fans and high fives from fellow band members. Hours of practice have lead to this point, and it was only pregame. We had a whole other performance to do at halftime.

To the young men and women at the University of Kansas, I salute you all who blow the whistle and strike up the band. May these next few hours stain your memories as they have mine a decade later. As you call the hogs, pray for strength and stamina. Pray for precision and perfection. Always remember that it is a great day to be a Jayhawk.

What's goin on..... Again???

2008-08-19T23:37:00.001-04:00

Okay, lets face it. We are in a recession. Our economy is going through a downward spiral and has been since 1999. It has been a steady decline, but we have really hit a low point over the past few years.

I have found out recently that many of my friends are going through tough times at work. People are getting laid off left and right. Even in my own career, which has normally been very stable, my co-workers are getting laid off. This is hard for me I am doing ok, but feel terrible for those who now have to go without a steady income.

What’s goin on? Marvin Gaye sang this song back in the 70’s with so much turmoil. It is time we speak out again and find out what is going on. We need to start asking the right questions and not accepting life as it is presented to us. Why are gas prices so high? Why are we spending money protecting other countries when our own borders are not secure? All these questions linger in my head as I am not happy with things.

Prayer.

Over the next few weeks I am taking time each day to meditate and pray. So many people in my life need prayer and healing. I am at the top of this list!! Our nation and world need prayer. My heart is beginning to open itself again going overseas and being a basic missionary. The life of 50hrs a week and filling someone else’s pockets just doesn’t seem that appealing anymore!!

I am asking that everyone take some time over the next month and pray everyday. Even if you are not a person of faith, you can meditate and focus your energy on the positive things in your life. Spread the love in your heart to one another and use that time to balance yourself. For those persons of faith, I ask that your spend some time with the creator and ask for grace. We all could use a little grace and mercy these days. If not for you, then someone in your life who just might have it harder. I am praying for all of you!!

Love you all,

Oliver

Tic Toc….

2008-08-19T23:10:00.000-04:00

So it is happening. I never knew what it felt like, but it is happening to me! A few months ago a friend of mine noticed that I was looking at babies and children differently. I never thought I would have them, I thought it could happen, but my life would be to complicated and fast paced to have children. Now… I can’t get them off my mind.

Here is the sad story, I am 30, a decent guy, and have a good sense of humor. I think in the end I would make a great dad!! In my business I deal with a ton of people who are not good parents and see their children suffer daily from people who have no business being a parent in the first place. WTF??? How is it that the idiots in the world seem to multiply like lab rats, but the people who actually pay their taxes wait until their clocks have almost ticked out to have their first child? Sad!! I am not saying that everyone who has multiple children are bad, but the movie “Idiocracy” seems to be a fantasy that is coming true. The idiots have us outnumbered 2 to 1. It is true. I deal with people who just can’t seem to get it together everyday. Guess what… they all have babies on their hips…

Over the weekend I spent some extended time with my friends a their newborn baby. She is absolutely adorable and could be a baby model. I used to be scared to death of babies, as I would always be afraid to do the wrong thing and mess up someone else’s child. This baby was great. I was playing with her all weekend. She fell asleep on my chest and I was hooked. I wanted one… I want my own little shorty!! I am not going to rich in and just have a baby mama…but for the first time in my life, I felt my biological clock ticking… more like ringing the bells from St. Marks Cathedral. Oh yes, it is definitely time to settle down and make some moves!

Here is my favorite part!! I was that guy. The anti children guy, “ they will ruin your life”… well… the crow meat taste great because I am recanting my statement and understanding what so many before have. Children are God’s greatest gift to humanity! The ability to bring another life into this world is nothing short of divine and should never be taken for granted under any circumstances.

God bless all the children (I sound like some cheesy movie) but it is true. I hope that one day I will be get that feeling and put this clock to bed once and for all.

First Day of School

2008-08-18T05:54:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of school for most kids in our area. This weekend I could feel the buzz, as the Wal-Mart & Target shelves were empty from the mad frenzy that is that first day.

Being so far removed now, I reminisced over my childhood experiences. Last year I remember shopping with a friend for school bags for her children and wondering what it feels like to hold the keys to someone’s education in your hand. Elementary school specifically was such a huge part of ones development. You can go from being the “smart” kid the “Dunce” in the matter of one year. Since you usually travel with the same group of kids through High School, these stigmas can be hard to shake. I remember the first day of school in 3rd grade when I had Ms. McDonald, who just so happened to be the hottest teacher at the school. My best Friend Jason was in the class too. It was awesome. That year was so much fun as I listened to every word that came from Ms. McD’s mouth. I can honestly think back as that as my first school hood crush… (ask me later and I will tell you a funny story about that). That year went by so fast and I learned so much. Much of my development as a “smart kid” started there as I began to accelerate much more rapidly and eventually would end up in the gifted program in 7th grade.

My friend’s son is starting third grade today. He was excited for school as I was back in the day. Ah, the cycle continues, as I am sure he is set for some fun times. The pressures on the faculty and staff today seem unfair as too much attention is being played on the fcat and not enough on the development of well-rounded children. I think too many kids are falling onto the “dunce” category just because they do not test well, and now that is the only focus of schools so they do not loose any funding….This is a vicious cycle.

As I was very close to becoming a teacher it makes me wonder what I would be doing this morning as I am about to get ready for my chosen profession… Would I be getting kids ready to play instruments…. Sad that this was my life for 15yrs and now it is so far away. Funny…

So, my hat is off to all you teachers who are making the world a better place by shaping the lives of so many children. If by chance you are the “hot” teacher in school… Thank you, thank you, thank you!! To all of my parents, May God show you patients and understanding as you guide your children through the educational journey of life. To all the shorties out there… My prayers are for you right now.

Not coming back

2008-08-08T06:04:00.000-04:00

Not coming back

As many of you know, I recently turned thirty. This is not so bad anymore as I realize that it’s just another year. The first few days before and after my birthday were some of the hardest days I have ever had to encounter, but I made it through and am now on my way to a new life.

I decided to shave my head as I always do in the summer months. Over the past couple of years I have noticed a rapid decline in my hair’s thickness, particularly to the front portion. In thinking about the remaining follicles, it is probably not a good idea that I take a razor to them, but I do. I am bad boy. The other morning I was getting ready to shave again and stopped to look in the mirror. After gazing at a very good-looking face for a while, I focus on my hairline. It was gone baby gone. I always knew it. One day the fro would be no more.

So, it’s not coming back. Like sands through the hourglass, so are the hairs on my head. I have to accept that I will be wearing the baldhead look for the rest of my days on the spaceship earth. The sad thing is that I don’t even have to shave my facial hair but once a week. (A trait that I get from my late father.) I shuffle through pictures of me with hair and will now have to chuckle, these days are far behind me…. “I use to have hair back in my 20’s”, is a statement I might need to get used to.

Symbolically, changes in our lives happen without question. No one knows how or why they do they just do. I have known that this change in my hair would come one day. I guess when it was time to happen, I am just not ready to say goodbye, but have to accept that my hair is gone, but that’s okay… there is nothing wrong with being a sexy bald brotha….

Kickball

2008-07-24T07:21:00.001-04:00

Kickball

Kickball is a sport that I have been playing for about a year now. It brings me so much joy while satisfying my competitive side of life. I find myself looking forward to Thursday nights as a release from the pressures of everyday life. I have become a little too committed to this sport as I have also found myself planning life and even work around, yet it has paid dividends.

Last Thursday my new team, affectionate called “Your Mom”, won the kickball championship again. I have been on another team previously called the Blue Ballers, which was full of my Orlando friends. The Blue Ballers decided to take a season off. I won a championship with the blue balers three seasons ago and got to hoist the cup of victory for the first time. This year around with “Your Mom” was different. I found myself having smack around “Your Mom” in order to get things done. I would push “Your Mom” harder n deeper than I thought was possible…. Okay that is enough with the silly puns!!

This has faced me with quite the dilemma, do I stay with “Your Mom” or do I go back to my trusty faithful “Blue Ballers”. Oh the drama that we have in life. I have wn a championship with both, but I found that my old team will be coming back with a vengeance. My new team is good, but is not as athletic as the balers were. “Your Mom or Blue Ballers” Just sounds funny saying it!!

On the serious side of Kickball, I also am the charity director. Which means I am apart of the “Brain Trust” as Mike and Steve so humbly put it. Wanting to do things in the community is another passion of mine. I honestly find myself enjoying the charities as much as I do rounding the bases on a home run. Last year we were able to do a couple of awesome events. This fall I want to put together a big tournament for the Florida. We would raise funds for a local charity. Wish me luck.

The new season starts in September. We shall see what team I am on.

La Nuit Noir

2008-07-24T01:57:00.001-04:00

La Nuit Noire

Bonjour, It has been a while but I will catch you up on me in a while.

Lets talk about the Dark Knight shall we! AAAAAmazing!! The movie was one of the better, if not, the best superhero movie of all times. As I was watching the movie, I could not help but recognize its greatness. I am not one to jump on the hype machine bandwagon and was a little leery going into the movie, but Heath Ledger’s performance was phenomenal.

As I examined his art at work, it left me with a number of questions. Was his performance that great, or was it overstated due to his untimely death? The answer is true to both. Unfortunately, we will never be able to separate the one from the other. As this as a backdrop, lets look deeper into this final epilogue from a great actor and a wonderful movie character.

Ledgers performance will become iconic in the years to come. His role as the Joker in the re-born Batman series will be seen as a superhero villain extraordinaire. (Look for look-a-like clowns running around this Halloween!!) As so many who meet untimely death, it is paradoxical that Ledger’s death brought so much attention to his performance. He has been a classy actor for years and really came to the head in Brokeback Mountain. (HEHE… I just reread that sentence!!) . It is sad to profit off of ones death, but the past cannot be changed. Ledgers death planned or unplanned, has made this film one of the most watched ever and has challenged me to question some basic beliefs and thoughts. Was Ledgers death essential to the success of this movie? If fate exist, was this almost written to be apart of the script and secure this movie in the pantheon of all time greats?

I know this. In life sometimes we can be apart of something that leads to something greater than we could imagine. It is not always the part that we want to play, but we have no control over the script, that is the director, and no rewrites will occur! Ironically, on the day I watched “The Dark Night”, apart of my heart was removed unexpectedly. (Figuratively not literally) Yet, by this loss, something greater will come about for them and many others. Without making Ledger or myself into a martyr, the parallel remains. That through loss of something special, something greater can return. Ledger’s death was terrible and something I wish it never happened. But the past is done, and we must find the understanding in the midst of the sadness. This movie will be an eternal remembrance of something special.

I find solace in these thoughts as my heart heals and I will learn to love again.

I have always had a faith in God. I find myself doing more and more preaching these days on the importance of having this relationship. It is my belief that God has a plan for all of us. Did God want Heath Ledger to die… to bring attention to this movie? Who knows, I do believe that the moral questions in the movie bring up so many deep issues that affect our society today. Any dialogue on these topics will be blessing. I know that Ledger’s performance will be considered historic in years to come. Through his death Ledger, will inspire many minds to do wonderful things… even if it is seeing the beauty of the dark night.

“Suddenly, the night does not seem so dark, and the morning is just a couple moments away. I can see the sunlight in the distance, fighting back the dark, and bringing the joy of a new day. My heart will take these rays of hope and keep them hidden in my soul.”-OK

30

2008-07-24T01:56:00.000-04:00

30 Thought

I’m 30. That’s right, the Big O is 3 O. Wow, I must tell you that it feels different. To be honest, my twenties was a decade of transition that has brought me to where I am today. Around my birthday every year, I usually take time to reflect on all the good and bad that have happened.

This year was a little different. Found myself in an unfamiliar place. I was with my mom. It was nice. I spent the morning with the person who gave me life. She told that she was proud of me and gave me her blessing. She mentioned how much joy I have given her. We embraced and a tear fell as I thought of my father, as I know he would be proud of me too. It has been 9 years since I last hugged the man who also gave me life; the sting is still there as though it were yesterday. I have come to embrace the pain and relish in his love for me. In all that I do, it is the hopes and dreams of my parents that drive me. Their constant sacrifices for me have made me the man I am. My life is an extension of their dreams, and now my dreams are his….

I have grown so much in 30 years. I look at old pictures of myself from high school and can’t believe I was ever that skinny!! Life is series of changes. These changes are necessary in the creation of our personal character. As I am going through changes right now, I realize the beauty of life. I thank God that I have been given the time I have. It is so wonderful to wake up each day despite the despair and hard times that we face. I have a faith that will see me through. This too shall pass, and I am sure that the story of my life has a few more pages to be written.

I thought about Jesus. According to biblical records, he started his ministry at age 30. I don’t think I will be leading the world to salvation, but it also puts my next portion of life in perspective. Can one person save the world? Can the power of one be so great that it inspires people to do the impossible? To walk on water? No, I don’t think I will be doing that, but what can I do? How can I impact people for good? What have I done today to make the lives of my neighbors better? I have asked myself this question often lately. I find myself far too often being cynical to those less fortunate. I pray that in the time I have been given that I help those in need. Maybe then I will start working on that water onto wine trick!

I AM

2007-06-20T22:47:00.001-04:00

I AM

The other day I was watching “The Prince of Egypt”. It was that animated movie about Moses and the 10 commandments. One of my favorite parts of that story is when Moses asks God his name. He simply states “ I AM”?? Well that solves and answers to a ton of questions doesn’t it? I Am? Is that the best we could do? I am sure that this story lost some of its authenticity throughout the years. “I AM”, was probably Andy or something that lost a couple of letters along the way. Regardless, “I AM” has been a staple in our English language that has never really lost its power.

At the university of Kansas the fight song is entitled “I’m a Jayhawk” I have probably listened, played, and directed this song 10,000 times in my extended stay in Lawrence. The title says it all. I Am A Jayhawk!! Shortened, but still exclaims the pride one feels in associating themselves with the school, mascot, and culture of Kansas University. Ask any Kansas student to sing the school’s alma mater and rock chalk chant and you will understand a whole new meaning of passion.

So what am I? I thought about this question today. I AM _______ Blank? So many words can fill that space. I am what? What is it that encompasses all of me in a single phrase? It was so much easier to sing along and not think about the words of our fight song. What are we? Who are we? I would love for someone to say Oliver, you are Christ. Oliver you are Love. You are Peace. You are Understanding. You are Patients. But I am not these things all the time. I am also Anger….at times. I am hate…when stuck in traffic. I am selfish. I am wrath. I am sloth. I am an asshole. Fortunately not all the time am I these lesser qualities, but they all still exist within me along with the good.

I am Oliver. The original, the unpredictable, the unprecedented. I am 31 flavors of life and then some. It is one of those things that I am come to grips with and embraced. I am throwing 7 kinds of smoke these days and loving each drop that life has to offer!! Through this I have learned the things about myself that I do not want to be. I am working on those. Replacing the bad flavors with the good is our true calling. I am a work in progress for sure.

Understanding that God encompasses all acts of life sheds some light on the “I AM” ness of that statement. Something that magnificent could never be summed up in one world. God’s power is boundless; words could never do him justice.

A candle in the wind

2007-06-19T23:05:00.000-04:00

A single candle sits in my room. It is a bright red candle that was a move in gift from a friend. From time to time I light this candle to counter the stale smells that can linger from earlier cooked food. The sweet smells are soothing after a stressful day. I know this sounds quite feminine, but it is the truth.

As I came out the shower tonight, the previously lit candle had filled my room with a mixture of strawberries and cream aroma that are about to put me right to bed. I turned of the light and stared at the candle as it illuminated my room. The red glow of the candles wall serves as a mini night-light. As much as I would want to sleep with it burning, I have seen one too many videos on what happens. So I just looked into the flame for a little while and reminisced.

Fire can be so basic as it can also be so destructive. It is one of the most basic elements we need to survive. If I were ever on a desert island my first instinct would be to create fire. I don’t think my boy scout skills are were they used to be, but I think I could manage.

Fire can also be passion. I often think about some of the most romantic nights of my life involved candle burning?? I don’t know why, but for some reason it always seemed to heighten the mood of the carnal pleasure that later ensued. A candle light dinner is still the first page in the book of romance? All this from a simple combustion of elements in a small space of air? Comical at best how this happens.

Unfortunately, what fire can create it can also take away. A few firefighters lost their lives today trying to keep others from these same passionate flames. Irony at its best. How can one item manifest itself in so many ways? The ability to sustain life and destroy it without itself changing. In San Francisco, one of the city’s trademark landmarks is Coit Tower. This pillar stands on the pinnacle of a hill in the north beach district and is a San Fran must see. The tower itself is a tribute to the firefighters who saved the city from fire at the turn of the century. The top of the tower is shaped like a fire hose. It is a interesting sight for a city that is full of quirks.

No real point to this blog, just a few random thoughts that came to me as I was getting ready to blow out my candle. I guess my next blog should be about water and wind!!

Memorial Day Thoughts

2007-05-28T08:14:00.000-04:00

The Gospel of John 15 says this:

15:12 My commandment is this—to love one another just as I have loved you 15:13 No one has greater love than this—that one lays down his life for his friends.

This is one of my favorite passages in the Bible. Jesus commands us to simply love one another. Not so tough right, but he also alludes to the ability of the ultimate sacrifice that one can give in the name of love.

Last night I started watching the series Band of Brothers. It was not planned, just a funny coincidence that it coincided with the Memorial Day weekend. A few days ago I read a story of a puppy that was returned to the family of a 22-year-old soldier who recently lost his life in Iraq. It has been said that every generation has its war. After the Civil War, it was the Spanish American War. Soon to follow was WWI, WWII, Korea, & Vietnam. In the 80’s the Cold war reached its heights, but ended abruptly with the ending of the Soviet Regime. Over the past 15 years our conflict has been centered in the Middle East. My generation has traded in green army fatigues for sand colored ones.

I have said this numerous times, but just to clarify once again. I am a patriot. I love America. I am very proud of my Jamaican heritage, but this country is still the greatest one earth. In any loving relationship, you may love them to pieces, but just may not be happy with them all the time.

I take my freedom for granted quite often. In an hour or so I’ll be heading down the road to the beach to enjoy the holiday with some friends. This trip will only be impeded by stoplights and not security checkpoints. Something as simple as going to the beach without thoughts of personal safety is a freedom we all take for granted far to often.

In California one of my good friends & co-workers was a refugee from Bosnia. He was younger than I was by three years, but everyone thought he was in his 30’s. One day we got to talking about everything that happened. He was excited about telling his story, but after he showed me some of his scars I understood how some wounds will never heal. He was so thankful for the United States coming in at that time or he said he would probably not be here. This made me proud of our country to know that we have done some good after the dust had settled. I pray one day I will meet someone from Iraq and know we have had the same effect on that country.

Yesterday a couple of kids from my church are already signed up from the military. Seeing folks younger than me going off to fight in a war before they have really got a chance to live is something that does not sit well with me. I understand the situation, but also fear that sending our smartest individuals of to a country that did not ask to be liberated may not be the best of ideas. Despite my personal distain for our current war, I fully support any and every person who has ever donned a uniform in the name of protecting our freedoms.

So truly on this Memorial Day, I say thank you to all the soldiers who have given the ultimate sacrifice for my sake and the freedoms I enjoy all to well. Understanding the message of John 15 makes me appreciate the lives of all those who have been lost.

No greater love has ever been shown.

Sleepy O

2007-05-24T00:04:00.000-04:00

Hibernation

So I will be going into a self imposed hibernation of over the next few weeks. Starting June 1^st and continuing until my birthday July 14^th!! I wont be completely incognito, but I won’t be out as much. For those prayer folks, I ask you to join me in a time of meditation. I will spend the next few weeks, concentrating on my mind, body and soul. Nothing is wrong with me, but every now and then I lake to time some time for personal reflection without to much distraction from the outside world. So If I do not answer my phone, or seem distant over the next few months, please understand it is nothing personal against you, but it is just Oliver getting back to all the things that make me me. I hope to see or hear from all my friends over the next couple of weeks. Until that time, I will truly pray for all of you and wish that the creator continues to bless you with peace & eternal grace.

Love You All,

My Natural Mystic

2007-05-23T23:50:00.000-04:00

My Natural Mystic

With so many songs constantly running through my head it is amazing that I have really pressed my career in music. My roommate ridiculed me the other day for constantly singing as we walked downtown. Sorry, dirk, but it is just what I am. Funny enough that same night I ended up on stage doing a couple of Marley tunes.

Over the past few weeks I have found myself completely consumed by music. I cannot get enough. My newest pusher has been myspace and its artist section. I have found myself probing through pages and pages of independent artist trying to find that one track that says it all. I guess it must be my current funk in life I am going through, but for whatever reason, I have found myself gravitating to the original and unknown. While finding comfort in those familiar tunes I know far to well.

My recent obsession has been with mostly acoustic and soul music. I have found myself searching out live performances of my favorite artist. Jason Mraz, Eric Clapton, Anthony David, David Ryan Harris, Danyo Cummings, Goapele, Lucky Peterson, and the Marley’s have been a constant source of escape for me over the past few weeks.

Tonight I found my old Clapton Unplugged CD. This is the CD I would want to be trapped with on a desert island with. Just give me a guitar and a solar powered CD player.

At my office I have a nice Bob Marley, Ben Harper, & Jack Johnson mix that I like to mellow out to. This is nice as I have grown more and more anxious of my job anticipating my very soon departure. As a uncertain future looms in the distance, music provides me a certain amount of solace of a long lost friend that never wavers. The beauty of music is that is can consume and save this savage beast.
Many more will have to suffer, many more will have to die…Don’t ask me why?

I am gettimg married

2007-05-23T22:48:00.000-04:00

I’m Getting Married

If that doesn’t sound weird to say I could not even imagine it happening. This morning I had a good chat with a friend about this issue in both of our lives. She was telling me how frustrated she was a woman getting older and “it” never yet happening for her. I also shared some of my frustration, but hope for something promised. It is funny how men and women can feel the same way about something, but never discuss it unless they are in such a safe and comfortable environment. In our discussion, we both proclaimed how much we enjoyed our independence, but longed for something a bit more meaningful. I had just returned from a wedding the previous weekend and was feeling a bit of those wedding blues. “ Always the groomsmen never the groom” is a joke quite common around my house. My mom provides the biggest catalyst to get married. Every time I venture to Deltona, a 20-minute Q & A session follows about when I will get married. I have come to accept this interrogation as apart of growing old and single. To my defense, I am no position to even think about settling down. Right now life is as good as it gets. I understand that I am no spring chicken, but I also know that my time has been set by a hand greater than mine. To be the man that I want to be for my eternal partner, I am still a work in progress. So I am getting married, just not anytime soon.

Banana Boat Boy's

2007-05-23T22:27:00.001-04:00

Miami Banana Boat Boy’s

The name sounds funny doesn’t it? It mostly sounds slightly offensive to me, but that it because it affects my direct culture being from Caribbean descent. I am pretty sure that the Dolphins will not be changing their names to this any time soon. It is just offensive to some people.

Recently, the NFL has tried to crack down on things they feel might be detrimental to the league. They have through a series punishments, disciplined said players who did not measure up to the code of conduct established by one Roger Goodell. Bravo Roger, you have been able to establish a league in which values and personal character as much as on-field performance. To make his point even better, Mr. Goodell went as far as holding the teams and owners for the actions of their players. Wow, what a renaissance man!! A commissioner actually stepping up to the challenge of the day, Bud Selig, please takes some notes.

Most Recently, the hammer is leaning towards Michael Vick and his alleged dog fighting ring. As awful as this is, it is not something that truly hurts anyone emotionally on a daily basis as a racial slur would. As to be on cue for this blog, a few days after some serious allegations were levied against Vick, a Player from the Washington Redskins came to his defense. Clinton Portis claimed that Mr. Vick had every right to do what ever he wanted on his property and questioned the motives of those set out against him. He aimed most of his argument to those members of the Media and PETA who have firmly gripped this cross. As I heard the comments of Mr. Portis, I knew that a quick response if not complete dismissal of his statements would be soon to follow by the NFL organization he is employed by, the Washington “REDSKINS”!

In a statement released a few media hours after Mr. Portis’s inflammatory comments, the REDSKINS released a statement disassociating themselves with the remarks of Mr. Portis. Going further in their statement, they actually went as far as apologizing for anyone who might have been offended by Mr. Portis…Really?

As I have grown older and more educated, I have come to realize that some things can be more offensive to one person than the others. I used to think that being a conservative Christian was the only way of life. Even though I still hold some of those value true to myself, I am now smart enough to know that I am not the smartest person on earth, although coming in second is nothing to hang your head about. I have come to learn that people who are different than me both socially and economically deserve the same amount of respect as any other person in this great country. Theories of equality should emulate from the walls of Washington DC to the rest of this country. Unfortunately, Washington is crowned with one of the most offensive franchises in the country. How can this be? How can we in a modern post civil rights era condone a franchise that carries on the name of a racial epithet? Please do not diminish the racial slur by the cute markings on a helmet. This term is down right offensive. It carries the same weight to me as the dreaded N’ word.

A few years ago the St Johns University changed their mascot from the Redman to the Red Storm. Kind of catchy, but given its replacement, I never heard those horrible words uttered again. In Washington, the NBA’s Bullets changed their name to the Wizards to sever their relationship with a the word “bullet”, sight the negative connotation that could be used in. How Ironic that a few steps from where the Wizard’s play, the REDSKINS fill RFK Stadium Sunday after Sunday with thousands of fans wearing offensive attire. Funny how we forget those human beings who don’t mean that much to us in society, but let a few dogs get caught up in a fight, and ESPN is all over it?
This is just very disheartening.

Staring Outside My Window

2007-04-25T00:39:00.000-04:00

Right outside my window you can is the skyline of downtown Orlando. The view is awesome. Everyday when I get home I run out to the balcony and see all the little ants marching along their way. I find this relaxing as I am in the comfort of my own home, 8 stories up from the hustle and bustle. My apartment is on the corner of our building and on the top floor. From my window I have a view of the Home Depot Supply building, which is located next to my room. On top of this building is an American flag illuminated by lights for all the I-4 drivers to see. Yesterday the flag returned to full mass after being at half for a week following the massacre at Virginia Tech.

Last week I clicked on a link that briefly introduced the story as it was unfolding. As always, the first instinct is to downplay the events, but as the truth came to light, pure terror set into my heart. 33 people lost their lives in all. One crazed and confused young man forever altered the lives of families, college students, a community, a nation, and the world. Stories zipped across fiber optic wires bringing this tragedy home for so many families around the world. The news brought this story to us in live vivid color as camera phones captured the panic of so many students. This was more than just a kid and a gun. This was a sign of things that have been brewing for quite some time.

The blame game was one of the first things the media will try to do in order to make sense of it all. Shifting the responsibility to those who could in no way be held accountable for someone’s senseless acts. Some folks just loose it sometimes; there is no real protocol for someone acting in this manner. I managed student dorms for over 4 years. There is no way the persons in charge could have ever suspected something like this.

My heart went out especially to the young man by the name of Ryan Clark. In looking through the list of victims, he embodied so much of me in college. A member of the marching band, a resident assistant, and volunteer for local charities make our college resume almost identical. His first reaction as an RA was to investigate the trouble on his floor. I have been that position hundreds of times and could not imagine doing anything different. After reading his story, this tragedy hit so much closer to home. Unfortunately, he was just on of 32 other stories that ended that day.

Why, why does something like this happen in the grand spectrum of things?? I pondered this all week and even now as the flag outside my window has returned to its normal position. This is my only solace in this hard lesson learned. I have never really gotten picked on in school. A couple of times some older kids tried to pick on me, but I was always popular enough that I had friends to stick up for me. I look back on it now and realize that I being in a position of popularity, I had the power to lift up those who were picked on, but did not always rise to the occasion. Mr. Cho in actions and cryptic pictures demonstrated a hurt that we all have felt from time to time. Neglect, rejection, isolation are all emotions that none of us like to feel but did seem to torture this young man. On Sunday night I was at a worship service were we prayed for this young man and others like him. With each car that passes my window I realize that there are more cases like this one that could happen anywhere and any time. It was mine and the prayer of a few hundred other folks that a great sense of healing would come upon not only the families of those who lost so much, but also on those who could commit a crime like this. Through this unfortunate event, I hope that people come to a greater understanding of the bond that exist through us all. We are all God’s wonderful little creations, and the love that we can share between each other, is the thread that can unite us all.

One Love

Love One Another

Waveland Chronicles Part 1

2007-03-26T23:49:00.000-04:00

Waveland, MS
Sunday, March 18th, 2007
6:42 am

Intro
It would be wrong for me not to start this journal without a notation of the events that sent them into place. In my previous letter, I explained how the effects the Hurricane Katrina touched the soul of all. The church I belong to began raising funds and awareness for this trips over 3 months ago, now that I am actually here, I understand why. More about that later. So lets backtrack a couple of days to Friday, when my “vacation time” began.

Friday, March 16th

My day started early, I tried to finish packing but I was unable before I had to depart to work. This meant a return trip to Orlando to finish my laundry and pick up my little odds and ends. Once I reached work, a hurricane of sorts affected me. Funny how the week before Friday seem calm to the storm of ensued @ 9:01am once the office opened. My new cell phone was a buzz with people texting me their new numbers, and I began receiving instructions on the days events. My trip leaders contacted me to remind me to make sure I was able to pick up the van from the rental spot in Orange City. My weekly reports and a couple of monthly reports were due all before I departed. The local sheriff’s department also stopped by to take a tour of the property, how convenient. I was swamped in work up to my ears and saw no escape. That overwhelming feeling began to creep in as I felt that I had bitten off more than I could chew. Through it all, I knew I could make it, if I just endured.

As the clock hit 3:08pm I was walking towards my car. My work day now over, I had left instructions with my co-workers for the week to follow. My task for the day had amazingly been completed and I felt confident knowing that I was beating I-4 traffic and would make it to Orange City by 4pm. Of course, I-4 did not cooperate on its half and I was forced to bend a couple of the local speeding laws en route to making it there on time. Once I made it to Orange City exit, my heart leapt. I drove past the local cemetery and could not bear to look to my right.

I had volunteered in the previous trip meeting to be a van driver, so showing up at the Budget Rentals was almost comical to me. Oliver King, a responsible driver, it funny just typing that. I was entrusted with a white 12-passenger van, woohoo!! This was going to get interesting. I left my car behind and drove home. My mom was waiting to bring me back out to the Budget to pick up my car. Once I got my car, I had a couple more stops to make.

My first stop was to Cingular to try and figure out my new phone. It is one of those smart phones that truly might be smarter than I am….which is not saying much, but nevertheless very frustrating. After a brief tutorial on how to use my phone, I was on to my next stop.
March 16th marked the date that my Father passed away. Seven years ago I got a call that change my life. His body was laid to rest in Orange City cemetery lot. I felt it necessary to pay my respects. As I drove up to the lot, I felt ashamed. My life was not exactly where I wanted it to be. I had questioned some of my actions and ethics in the previous months at work and in life. Would my father be proud? I doubt it? I was humbly approaching his grave with a remorse I had not felt in years. I knew that this was a crucial visit. This would set the tone for my weeks trip. Surely he would be proud of that. Yet I didn’t know what to say. As I walked up to the grave sight, I saw the words KING spelled out. The tears began to form. Fighting them back, I bowed my head shamefully, I knew he loved me and still does, but I knew he was disappointed in some of my decisions. How do you say I am sorry to someone who no longer exist? As I began my confessions, I felt a little better. A rush of memories soon followed. The laughs began to trickle as I remembered so many wonderful memories of my dad. A smile appeared and my soul had been blessed. I reached in my pocket to grab my new phone to snap a photo to send to my brothers and sisters. As I looked at my phone the message read “Battery at Critical Level, Replace or Recharge”.

That was my message, my omen, my mission for the week. I needed to replace and recharge my battery, the things that motivated me were not material, but spiritual. A year ago, I was in Jamaica immersed in a deep spiritual state. I had such a close connection to God and all the things he has given us. I somehow forgot he was in charge of all things that are. I needed to replace the things in the my life that took me away from his love and get a spiritual recharge.

Thanks Dad, you always knew the right words to say.

Saturday March 17th

The day started just after midnight in Wal-mart. I had to pick up a few items for my trip. A selection of Haribo Gummy Bears where on the top of my list of course!! The clientele in a Wal Mart after midnight definitely changes. I am not sure what it is, but the freaks definitely come out at night. After my return home, I finished packing up my stuff got ready for bed. My head hit the pillow shortly after 2am. I knew the 5am wake-up call would be a difficult one, but fortunately my battery where recharged.

As I arrived at the church shortly after 6am, I was buzzing. I think the overall excitement of taking a missionary trip provided me with the extra adrenaline to overcome what should have been a tired body. Some of my other fellow trip takers did not share my excitement. I was probably that irritating guy who always had energy in the morning. To top it all, I had my camera and was taking pictures with a bright flash of everyone for this journal. Boy did they love that!!

We got on the road right at about 8am. 100 yards form the church parking we made our first stop. Someone forgot some papers and needed to return to the church. This was definately foreshadowing for things come. We had a small caravan of vans and trailers. 41 persons overall were packed in 4 vans and one truck hauling a trailer of supplies and luggage. My van was slotted in the third spot. In my van we varied from age 15 to 66. It was a great group and we really got to know each other on the way up. Traveling across the country with persons aging in age from 1 to 66 meant that we had stops. We had a bunch of stops. Potty breaks happened every other hour and it took us 3 ½ hours to get to Gainesville. This trip normally takes me 2 when I visit my brother. Still, I enjoyed the ride. I was the driver and didn’t mind the breaks, as I was able to stock up on Starbucks double espressos.

Shortly after 8:30pm we pulled into the city of Waveland. The sun had already set and barely left a hint of pint purple on the horizon. As we navigated our way to our destination, we were appalled by the level of damage still visible even at the darkest of hours. A slow creep down roads with no name and we finally made it to our home for the next week.

A two story home that with stood the brunt of the storm’s force and is now the headquarters for the 40 volunteers who lie within its walls. The house that I now call home is a sea of cots and air mattresses. I am currently sharing a small room lined wall to wall with single bed cots. I did not even have enough room to inflate my air mattress, alas; my trip is not about comfort. We are here to help people, surely I could sleep six to a room for a week of my life, and at least we have a roof over our heads.

As we unpacked our things, my body showed unexpected strength considering the days long drive and the previous nights deprived rest. I was still living off the adrenaline I showed in the morning and became more excited as the obstacles and difficulties appeared. I wouldn’t want it any other way. Sure it would have been great to be staying in some luxury hotels, but for what, to sleep comfortably when the people we are serving could not? No, I like sleeping next to men who saw logs all night. At this moment, there is no place I would rather be.
AS my head hit the pillow, I had time to reflect on all events that lead to that first nights rest: All the people who supported us. All the planning that went into the trip. All the sacrificed hours for work and school that each individual had made. Every hour worked to help financially support this endeavor. All the patience that would be required to make 40 egos mesh together. Some people do not believe in miracle’s but for us to drive 600 miles to Waveland without incident, the first of many miracle’s happened on March 17th!!

Love's Divine

2007-03-06T22:34:00.000-05:00

Divine Intervention

My brother Sean is six years my elder. Growing up as the baby brother, I was always attached to the hip of Sean or my other brother Wesley. Wesley is five years older than I. Between the two of them, they found time to torture me routinely on Saturday mornings. Whether it was my choice in cartoons, or desire to play the Cello, they often found something to use as a catalyst in ultimately tying to a bed or tree. Fortunately my wrists are very small and I would often escape within minutes of their treacherous acts. My blood now boiling, a battle would ensue for the next thirty minutes. I would always end up surrendering as both of my brothers exerted age and strength over me.

As I got older, my brothers and I continued our shenanigans, yet they both were now in high school and began lifting weights. Sean excelled at this tremendously and set a few freshman weightlifting records at Deland High School. As our conflicts became more and more physical, it became evident that I would never be able to match the muscular abilities of my brother. I became mindful of this giant as he approached me. His arms had become solid steel canons deploying mortars into my chest reminding me of his presence whenever I ventured too close. I learned to keep my defenses up at all times as he could unleash a punishing blow at any time. My youth, speed, and agility were no match for his overwhelming strength.

This behavior has continued to even now as I am in my late 20’s and Sean is in his mid 30’s. This weekend he brought his family down from Atlanta to visit on the three-day weekend. As I walked up the stairs to the room he was staying in, I preceded with the same caution I had always shown in his presence a toddler. A quick knock on the door was quickly answered by a light and gentle voice on the other side. “Come in”, he spoke softly. Nothing could prepare me for what happened next.

I opened the door slowly wanting to examine my escape route if need be. Upon first glance I saw my brother lying peacefully on his side. The terror level was lowered to a very light yellow!! Lying on his powerful bicep was one of the most beautiful creations I had ever seen. Olivia Divine is the newest addition to the King family. Her arrival in November was met with as much anticipation as any baby would conjure, but this arrival was pleasant surprise on the resounding effect she would have on my brother.

This once proud and overly arrogant man had been reduced to whisper and quiet talk. As I walked in the image of him gently stroking the cheek of his daughter is a true testament of how beauty can tame a beast. My initial reaction was one of amazement as this was my first chance to see my newest niece. Her tiny body and adorable face made me proud that she was named after me!! (Okay maybe she is named after my mom, Olive, but Olivia, Olive, Oliver…I could be in there too!!)

Sean on the other hand was a completely different person. This is all in a good way. I was dumbfounded by this newly found gentle giant. The arms that I witnessed easily bench press 480lbs, were now used a pillow for a beautiful baby girl. The man who on every opportunity would proudly proclaim that he was the “Greatest” was truly humbled my Ms Olivia Divine King.

Sore Loser

2007-01-28T23:45:00.000-05:00

So as one gets older, he/she must come to grips with the fact that some of your physical capabilities will decline. Oedipus answered the Sphinx’s riddle; “what has 4 legs in the morning, 2 at noon, and 3 at night?” The answer is human beings and the 3 legs refer to us at an older age walking with a cane. I am not to far from that now it seems.

I am out of shape. It is not too bad, but bad enough were I know I am losing some of my physical attributes before their time. As I sit and watch sporting events I see guys I played against in college at the top of the physical capabilities. I have always wondered what it would be like to switch places with them. Every time I watch a former Kansas Jayhawk in the NBA I know that I could be better off physically than I am now. In the Oedipus clock, I am way to close to sundown than I should be at my age!!

I played flag football yesterday. It was just a pick up game with some friends. It had been a couple years since I had played football competitively against guys my own age so I was ready for the challenge. I even broke out my old drum major cleats, which are pro style footwear for grass. I was ready to play. Unfortunately, my body was not. I found out very quickly that if you do not use it, you will truly lose it, and then embarrass yourself over and over again trying to regain it!! I caught the first couple of passes thrown my way and sprinted into the end zone for a score. That would be the only highlight of the day for me. As I was continuing to play, my body was not responding in the way I was used to, this caused me to not only get burnt on plays, but on others were I thought I could make the catch, I just looked foolish!! Oh how the mighty have fallen. My confident swagger walking onto the playing field was quickly replaced gimpy hobble off. I was defeated both physically and game wise. My two dropped passes and other blunders became the recurring joke for the remainder of the night and on to today.

As I sit in bed today, extremely sore in places I did not know I have, I realize that complaining about it is not going to make the hands of time go back to noon. I must be a man of action and create a time machine for my body. I refuse to one, be embarrassed again, and two, let the hands time take away the best years of my life. AS my body slowly recovers this week, I will begin my metamorphosis back to the O King of old, before I get to old!!

I need your help

2007-01-24T01:04:00.000-05:00

I hate to do this, but here goes!

I am going on a mission trip to Waveland, MS in March. For those of you who don’t know Waveland is considered ground zero for Hurricane Katrina disaster. It is located 90 miles east of New Orleans. Although New Orleans suffered great losses due to the high number of people in that city, Waveland suffered the more dramatic losses as 35-foot storm surge pushed 10 feet of water, 5 miles inland. The town was completely flattened. As we all witnessed, the rescue efforts through out the gulf were minimal, and although the government has done a tremendous job of helping out cities like Mobile and New Orleans, the citizens of towns like Waveland have relied on the generosity of private donors. FEMA has picked up the slack recently, but can only provide temporary solutions as to a long-term problem.

Enter Pine Ridge Fellowship (PRF). PRF is a church that I attend here in Deltona. A month ago it was mentioned that they were looking for volunteers to go a mission trip to help out Katrina victims. My first reaction was, “they still need help”? As the slideshow began, the pictures looked like they came straight from a war zone, yet they were snapped the week earlier, almost a year and five months after the hurricane. The town was in shambles. I looked at my calendar and made plans to attend. In the process I canceled a trip I had for that weekend in order to help out.

I have been blessed many times to survive storms that have ripped through Florida. I was living in California when Central Florida was devastated by 3 hurricanes in a 5 week span. My family was fortunate to survive these storms unscathed, but my heart was in my throat each day watching news reports from the region. I was so thankful to all the volunteers who helped my mom remove debris from our house and also who helped replace our roof. The strength of our society is the ability to answer the bell whenever it is rung. I now have an opportunity to help others who have been less fortunate to survive such a powerful storm. I am overwhelmed with joy just thinking about this opportunity to service others, even if it is only for a week.

So, how can I help you Oliver??? Very good question, here’s how. I am asking for donations for this trip. The cost per person is $400, plus personal sacrifices from work or school. Right now our congregation has 40 people signed up to go. These people vary in age and economic status and represent a true melting pot of volunteers who share one passion of helping others. The cost for each person is a larger burden for some even though their hearts are there. So we have decided to pool our money and raise enough for those who have a desire to go but maybe not the means. Our goal is to raise enough money to not only send our volunteers, but also present the city of Waveland a love offering with anything surplus collected. I am not asking anyone to break their banks, but if you think you would be interested in helping to sponsor this trip please drop me a line with your address so I can send you out an official letter explaining the trip in a little more detail.

More than anything, the biggest support you can offer the people of Waveland are your continued prayers and warm wishes. The road to recovery will be long and continuous, but our shared compassion for those in need will once again prove why we are a great nation. I ask that you remember us volunteers in the coming weeks as we prepare for this trip and especially during the week of March 17th – 24th as we embark on this mission.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and God Bless,

Oliver

Ps – here is a link for the city of Waveland, you can see the effects of the storm first had.
http://www.wavelandcity.com/

Naked!!

2007-01-24T01:03:00.002-05:00

Naked

I got kicked two times in the buttocks the other night. Those of you who have seen the movie “Waiting” know exactly why this happened. The night before I had come to see my nephews running around the house in their birthdays suits. It was comical at best as they had no shame to their bodies. What a contrast this drew for me.

At what age do we lose that innocence? I remember as a child sprinting around the house naked, and my dad ushering me upstairs. As I have gotten older, our personal bodies become more and more an issue. I am extremely modest when it comes to my body. Rarely would I shower in public facilities in high school or college. As a boy scout, I would wake up at 2 am just to shower while no one else was around. Yet I am not ashamed of my body in any way, I just choose not to show it everyone. I tend to keep a lot of things more private these days, not just my body.

In many of my past relationships some of the most intimate moments came as I would be naked with a woman. One of my girlfriends would hide under the covers if I turned the lights on, and she was one of the most beautiful girls I have ever met. As the case with many ladies, they have much more of an image issue then men, so I think it was even more intimate for them than me. Nevertheless, the ability to lay naked with another person that you care about is the ultimate sign of trust. In some more casual relationships, the clothes would return after the nighttime acrobatics, but the relationships that meant the most were the ones with nothing to hide.

A couple of my guy friends have no problem being naked. As much as I would like them to keep there clothes on, somehow after a few drinks, they always find a way to get their private parts exposed for the whole world to see. Ironically these two individuals, who do not know each other, have a very similar way about them. Their lives are open books for all to see, and I truly admire their ability to honest about themselves at all times.

I wonder what would have happened if Adam never ate the apple? Ralph Lauren shirts or Levi’s Jeans cannot hide the shame that many of us carry around, so we find other ways to dress up our shortcomings in hopes that others will accept us. The be told if we were all just naked, maybe it would be a little easier to talk about things, maybe we would all get along a little better?

I want to get naked. Not in a physical sense, but in a way were I am free to express my thoughts without fear of judgment or chastisements. I want to be able to speak my mind freely without fear of exposing my inner thoughts. My friend’s get on me for always bringing up deep issue’s…well, sorry, but that is who I am, and that is how I think. I find fascinating how many people hide their ideas on certain issues like a birthmark’s they try to cover up with long sleeves? We are who we are, and we should never be ashamed of any part of that!! So lets all just get naked and talk it out!!
Maybe I should join a Nudist colony?

Waiting

2007-01-24T01:03:00.001-05:00

Let’s not wait anymore!!
Tonight I watched the State of the Union Address by President Bush. I must say that I was impressed for the first time in a long time. As much as I am against him politically, tonight I was moved by his determination to see America succeed. We have lost ground on the rest of the world. It is not that I want to hold others back from progress, but the ideals of America strikes a thick chord in heart. Both of my parents came to this country seeking a better life for their children, I believe that in America, you can be anything you want to be. The sacrifices made by my parents so I could have a better life is my motivation for my children to one day grow up in a country where opportunities are abundant. Ensuring this abundance is and should remain the primary focus of our government. Bush tonight made many remarks that I hope he carries through on, in the shadows of the Iraqi conflict lye some serious social issues that must be addressed. I urge everyone to look into the social issues affecting your position in life and voice your opinion. The great thing about this country is that change can start with just one person, and one idea. We recently celebrated Martin Luther King Day. One man impacted the entire country and world in changing the way we view each other. As we proceed forward into a new year, lets us all make an effort to make America a better place for us and the next generations to come. A John Mayer song sings about “waiting for the world to change” I say, we should wait no more. With advancements in communication and information, we all have the ability to make change in our world today. What are we waiting for??

Random Stuff...

2007-01-24T01:02:00.000-05:00

It's been a while, but i'm back!!

TV Addict Returns…

I am at it again, a new season to TV shows are coming and I am counting down the days until I get Tivo in my new apartment!! American Idol, 24, Lost, The Office, Family Guy, ah the list goes on and on… I find myself planning my weekly schedule around these shows and am asking friends to record episodes that I have to miss for various reasons. This is sad, but I have not been this excited about TV since the days of the A Team, Thundercats, and Transformers!!

Movies…

Speaking of Transformers, the live action movie will be coming on July Fourth of this year. Their will be a transformer party at my place followed by a roof top fireworks show courtesy of Lake Eola!!

Been quite the movie buff lately, but the best movie I have seen recently is hands down the Departed still followed by Blood Diamond. So that makes Leonardo my new favorite actor!!..hmmm maybe he could be in Transformers the movie!!!

Music…

Some pretty good concerts are coming to the Orlando Arena (yes it will for ever be the o Arena) and other venues. Let me know if you want to see folks like John Mayer, the Roots, Chili Peppers w/ Gnarls Barkley, and my personal fav….Los Lonely Boys

Other stuff…

2007 has started off amazing for me and I must say that I am in a completely different state of mind than I was last year at this time. I still miss California with a passion, but slowly but surely Florida is starting to grow on me and I am enjoying it more and more each day!!

Profit or Prophet

2006-11-20T00:23:00.000-05:00

Rebecca St James Concert

So last night I went to this Rebecca St. James Concert! It was quite a different atmosphere from the previous night as this was a Christian concert. The concert was held in the great metropolis of Deltona. I headed out about 6 pm to catch a glimpse of the Grammy award-winning artist. Growing up I had never been into to much Christian music because I was told it was “Blasphemous”. I never really bought into this train of thought, but was not in a position to defy my parents either. They would rather I listen to gangsta rap than listen to something with a positive message…how ironic!!

AS I arrived at the outdoor venue I had on a long-sleeved shirt and jeans. Surely this would be enough warmth for Florida…Wrong. When I first got there it was not so bad, but as the sun quickly departed, the humid Florida air began to bite at my skin. An hour into the opening acts I headed back to my car where I found a windbreaker from the night before. Hoping the thin nylon would provide me with warmth was a mistake. Ms. St James was supposed to perform at 8pm. But as 8:30 rolled around I was standing around freezing with one hand in my pocket and the other sippin on hot coffee!! A decision had to be made. With each performance prior to Ms James, I grew weary of the cold. It was 8:45 and still no Rebecca. I really felt bad for the people who had been there since 3pm. They waited all day to see her perform. At 9:05 She finally graced the stage. Unfortunately I could not take it anymore and half way through te second number I departed. I had never been one to beet the traffic, but I also was not about freeze my patooty off for anybody. …did I really just use the word “patooty”…

Side Note – There were about 7 opening acts for Ms. James. And as the night before, I am sure each artist was just as passionate about his or her art as the headliner. Ms. James has a huge tour bus with security guards and the whole nine..I was joking with some of my church friends and we said” isn’t this a Christian Concert?? What’s up with the security??” we chuckled it off but, I thought more for the artist who don’t get a tour bus, don’t they need protection from the band of renegade Christians who might attack??

Side Bar – One of the hip hop artist from the night said something that I have always felt in my heart, ironically I have never been able to articulate as well as he did in his lyrics. He said this:

“God gave me this talent free, I didn’t ask for it, he wants me to share it with you, how could I charge you for something that was free to me?”
Now that is not a direct quote, but it sums up my feeling on why music should be free!! He asked everyone to go to his website and download his CD for free, this was a welcome sound to my ears as I observed many of today’s artist (especially the Christian ones) making a profit of a talent they been blessed with given from God, but want you to pay to hear it?? How ironic is that??

Knocks Me Off My Feet

2006-11-20T00:22:00.000-05:00

Donnell Jones Concert

I don’t like to admit to making a mistake very often, but a few years ago I made probably the biggest mistake of my life. I was listening to a song by Donnell Jones, which was saying everything that I was feeling at that time. I was always a big fan of his, and at that point in my life “ I just needed time to see, where I wanna be?” These words, although they were true at the time, proved to be the cause for my later disappointment and apology. The sad truth is that if by chance you ever fall in love, you should really hold on to it. The deeper truth is that if you are lucky enough to fall in love with someone, and they love you back just as much, you should be thankful for every moment you have with that person. Unfortunately at age 21 I was unaware of this timeless truth. But, as the saying goes, “it is better to have loved, and to have lost, than to never to have loved at all!!”

On Friday night I scooted downtown after work to grab a few cocktails with some friends. As we went to a friend’s bar I noticed a stage set up. I asked him who was performing? He said “Donnell Jones”. My heart skipped. The man who was responsible for so much pleasure and pain, I had to see him in concert. I hung out for a few hours to her one of my favorite R&B artist do his thing. I would not be disappointed. He has a new album coming out and I didn’t recognize some of his new stuff, but as the night went on, he brought out more and more of his classics. Then, as if he got the memo…he ended the night with “Where I wanna be”. Well that put a sour end to a great night of music, as I skirted over to the bar. I would normally have drowned my sorrows in long pour of Bacardi Limon, but it was late and I needed to put this to rest in so many ways. I ordered up a sprite and decided to let it go….let it all ago!!
Side note – Opening up for Donnell was a high school friend of mine. Ironically this person had a crush on me in back in the day!! I was a couple years older than her, and it just never really materialized. It was awkward to see her all grown up and on stage. I always knew she could sing, but it was awesome to see her take command of the stage!! After her set, we made small talk and got caught up on each other’s lives. She is an accountant by day, and a sultry singer at night. Mega props to her on following her dream and never giving up. As the night went on, I ran into more high school friends who where also there to se our classmate. Once again, the move back home is starting to pay dividends.

Eat Me

2006-11-20T00:21:00.000-05:00

You are what you eat...or are you??

“Oliver, you’re not really Black!!” You would not believe how many times I have heard this in my life. I have almost become numb to these words & thoughts, mostly writing people off who have this mindset. Growing up in Deltona, this was a challenge for me as a child. I was usually the only black kid in my class for the first few years. I would get picked on sometimes about it, but mostly stayed close to a core group of friends who accepted me for who I was. A person. Unfortunately though, these same kids who grew up thinking that being black meant, rims and gold teeth, think no differently now. It is amazing how people mask racism with terms like “urban”, “inner-city”, “demographic” etc… As I am now in Corp. America again, these terms and sayings have reared their ugly heads once more.

I guess the thing that bothers me the most is that I am a person who is very proud to be a black man. I am also very proud of my Jamaican Heritage. I say these statements not to feel superior to another race of people or culture, but I feel there is so much to be proud of in the face of struggle from both the color of my skin and the culture I was raised in. I enjoy meeting people of other cultures as we can learn so much from those who are different than us. If all the colors of the rainbow were red, that would not be very exciting now would it?? Such is true in life, we need all kinds of people to make this world interesting. It is sad to me when people limit themselves to shallow thinking and closed mindedness. More than anything I feel sorry for these people. If I thought like this, I would only eat “Rice & Peas and Jerk Chicken!!” As much as I love Jamaican food, I also enjoy Italian, Chinese, Mediterranean, French, Japanese, and all types of international cuisine. It would be boring to eat the same style of food every night. Sometimes you feel like a taco, sometimes you feel like a crepe’. The beauty of life is knowing that you can experience all these things without losing your own identity.

Muzak

2006-11-15T01:00:00.001-05:00

Muzak…

What is it? How can we be so taken prisoner by a set of rhythmic vibrations?? Music is such a huge part of our beings that it sometimes makes me wonder where we would be without it? Most folks who know me know the importance of music in my life. I have learned not to become a music snob, as some people are who have been educated in the musical fields. Far too often one in the musical world will lose touch with the basis of music.

There was a point in my college “career”, that I hated music. I had listened and critiqued it so much that I could not hold a conversation with my friends anymore; I would spout out topics they had no understanding of. To the common man, he cares little for the “inverted chord progressions”, which took place in the middle of the latest hip hop song!! As a musician though, very little escaped my ears and I began to over analyze music to a point of obsession.

Thankfully, I got out of my funk and began to listen for the sake of enjoyment again. What a great gift we have in music!!. Whether you believe in creation or not, our ability as humans to create and appreciate music is something divine. There is a song for every occasion in our lives. From our earliest studies of culture, music has and always will be a constant companion. With out music, there would be no national anthems, no seventh inning stretches, no jaws, and no “chicken noodle soup song”. Yes even the chicken noodle soup song is an example of the vast variations of music on our society and culture.

I recently received a few CD’s from very good friend. These were all burnt mixes of stuff new and old. I was able to recognize some of the tracks, and others were very new to me. With each new selection, I was eager to hear something different and unique. I instantly fell in love with a couple new tracks. Isn’t it funny how a song can completely encompass your soul and take you to another world? As I listened to each track, I was able to put myself in the middle of the artist’s lyrics and “Drift Away”!! Shockingly my favorite tracks ended being a song from the Dixie Chicks called “I Hope” & the John Mayer track “waiting on the world”! Needless to say, I was shocked that these songs from artist I have heard of, but never really listened to could enlighten my day so greatly!!

Here is a challenge…Think about your life… If you could make one twelve track CD, what songs would be on it?

Side Note…
Getting music from a friend is like getting legal crack! I can’t get enough as always. The mixed CD is a viable art form. As I have made my fair share of mixes in the past, I discussed technique with my friend as a skilled craftsman would with another artist. It is comical sometimes how life changes right before our eyes… 20 yeas ago we used to walk down the street with boom boxes on our shoulders…now we have cell phones with built in MP3 players… Music will never be far from us.

Driven

2006-11-15T00:56:00.000-05:00

When I put my mind to it….

Success is all relative to a certain position in life. To Bill Gates or the Donald I am a drop in the bucket, but to some folks (like my mom), they think the world of me. It is funny how an opinion me can vary when I remain the same person. Fortunately I stopped living for others approval a long time ago. I now just make sure that before I go to sleep, I am comfortable with the things I did that day. In the end that’s all you have.

So as I am growing older I am finding that I have certain areas that I excel and others that I am lacking or below average. Recently as I was interviewing for jobs they asked me what my greatest weakness is? After thinking about it, I mentioned that my handwriting really needs some help. At the time that’s all I could think of. (If you have never seen it, it is really bad) I am currently listening to an audio book of the “Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. (I listen to it on my daily commute.) This is currently the worlds best selling book. I must admit it offers a certain insights to life and the things we can do. I was turned off though very early by one of its defining keys to success.

Mr. Warren states that you must focus on one thing and do it well. He explains how spreading yourself to thin causes you to loose focus on your ideals and goals. Well, I beg to differ. I agree that being the best you can be in an area is great thing, but I also believe that being versatile is just as important also. Personally, I hate to be pigeon holed by someone for something that I am supposed to be. It is easy to write someone off as being one thing. You can say, “hey that’s guys a surfer, or that guys a band dork, etc…” we all say these things as we try to categorize the people we know into blocks or groups. Truth be told, no one is one thing. We are complex beings with much “more than meets the eye”!! (Transformer shout out)
It is my belief that contrary to Mr. Warren we can do and be anything that we want to be at any given time. The need to belong to a certain group or clique is a dangerous notion to me. We form groups or pacts of acceptance to only the ideals and thoughts that fit into our perspective. A club of millionaires will never understand the struggles on the common man, yet if they mowed their own lawn just like John Doe 6 pack, they may understand that we are more alike than we are apart. I believe that we can do anything if we put our minds to it, yet putting your mind to it requires you to think consciously about the world around you…and that’s just not best selling theory these days.

Sick & Tired

2006-11-09T00:19:00.000-05:00

Pleasae read all five blogs in one sitting...its quality reading and the that was O KING!!

Sick and tired of being sick and tired. My body has been run ragged!! I have not been able to sleep, this has been happening for sometime now, but it is affecting me more lately. I can not sleep in anymore and my latest wake up call over the past few weeks has been 7. But I am not usually in bed before 1 or two on a good night. I am functioning on 2 to 3 hours a night if you call that solid sleep. I feel like Ed Norton in Fight Club!! To add a little sugar to the sweetener, I have pick up a cold or flu from everyone I and their mommas who got a flu shot last week. That combined with a few nights of partying have combined to a never-ending illness over the past two weeks.

This came to a culmination yesterday as I just had it!!

We all have had one of those days!! You wake up take a shower, get dressed and head into work…but wait, did I forget something.., Watch?? Check. Necklace?? Check. Keys? Check. Cell Phone? Check?? Wallet?? Check?? Argh….what did I forget…..wait…I couldn’t have?? “did I put on Deodorant?? No Check!!! How does this happen? A grown man forgets to spruce up with some old spice?? I think in the morning routine, I just missed a step. Now to compound this situation with my previously mention illness, I was uber frustrated. The worst part of having BO Is not knowing if you do or don’t have BO..I knew I was missing some right guard, but I did not know if I was giving off a foul odor, or if it was under control. Fortunately I was not sweating yesterday, yet still I was overly continuous of myself making sure I would not get to close to anyone person. To top it all off, because of my illness, I could not smell a rose if it was glued to my olfactory gland!!

At the end of the day I was relieved to know my odor was nothing but the smell on fabric softener that had soaked through to my skin!! I have never been happier to be a snuggle kind of guy!! As for the sniffles, they are still with me today, hopefully I can get some sleep in the next couple of days and get over this. Being sick sucks in so many ways!!

Disney Dreams....

2006-11-09T00:17:00.000-05:00

A Recent Trip To Epcot

I went to Disney this past weekend for the food and wine festival, (yes I know did not help my sickness). As I approached the park I remembered going to Epcot with my entire family back in the early 90’s. Back then it was a big tip as my entire family went. I realized what a special memory this and how I would cherish that for a long time. Nostalgia aside, I was ready to check out some of the new rides and attractions Mickey had brought the giant silver globe in my 11 y absence. My recent trips to the Disney World park’s had all been centered around the more adventurous side of things. This was my first trip back to Epcot since “Tuba-Christmas 95”!!

I have some great friends. I have mentioned this on occasion before, but my core group of friend’s are some of the best people I know. I have been blessed time and time again when I think back on life and realize how special these bonds are compared to others I know. The ability to share jokes with people that have gone on since the 7th grade is just awesome!! I truly feel sorry for the wife’s of my boys who just have to shake their heads at our school boyish antics… Add little bit of booze to the mix and we are a destructive bunch of wreck – looses set for world domination…That’s Disney World Domination!! With every food sample from around the world, we were forced (and I stress forced), to imbibe a libation from every available country. By the time we made it to America our sheets were set at full sail!! The mixture of Dayquil an lager had quickly put my cold to rest!! It was smooth sailing for the rest of the day.

The weather in Florida can just be breathtaking at times. I know what it lacks in natural landscape it makes up for in weather and endless beaches. As much as I love the weather in the bay area, Florida has days that take you a little closer to heaven with each drop of sunshine. Saturday was one of those days I was happy to be in the sunshine state. It was just cool enough in the morning for long sleeves, but warm enough in the afternoon for polo. A perfect combination that made the food, wine, and friendship that much more enjoyable.

As the evening drew to a close, on cue a beautiful sunset was complimented by clear skies and full moon. At dusk we spent 20 minutes playing with our camera’s searching for the right setting to get our night vision pictures right. Although none of them came out, it is still a funny memory trying to figure this stuff out!!
The night ended with a meal at Bahama Breeze as we discussed plans for our upcoming trip to Jamaica!! Times like these make me joyous to be around the people that I care about he most on a day to day basis….even if they do think the NBA should have a dress code!!

Vote or Die

2006-11-09T00:16:00.001-05:00

Diddy’s campaign never really made sense to me. I appreciate the passion of the mohawk’d marathon runner, but the extreme of his slogan made it seem a little to offensive for my blood.

This election their was no need for a fancy campaign slogan. America had had enough of DC’s politics. Across the country voters turned out to change the country through the power of election. As much as I was happy to see the current administration take a huge blow, I was happy to see our form of democracy really work. This is proof once again that our form of government is able to stay true to its original inception. The people do have the power to change policy and government with in due process without disrupting the over flow of the governance of the country. This is a beautiful thing when it is appreciated for the fact that it was conceived over 200 yrs ago. Over government has survived and will continue to thrive just as longs as though who believe in its ideals stay true to our responsibility….Voting!!

I voted in Florida for the first time. I wanted to make sure my state would not make the same mistake they did in 2000 with the general election so I chose to use the electronic machine eliminating the chance of a “Hanging Chad”. Contrary to the speculation, anyone with a decent IQ could easily handle this machine. I found it easy and a streamline process, although I do spend 6 hours working with computers.

As I was waiting in line to vote a older African American Gentleman came into vote. He could barely walk and had to be pushing his late 80’s, yet he came in unassisted and was ready to vote. I wish I had my camera!! I almost wanted to applaud his efforts. Now this is speculation, but I assumed he was born in a time when it was impossible for him to vote. I am sure he has seen the heights of this country and the depths, yet he was here in his place right where he is supposed to be.

Shame on us all for taking this privilege for granted so much!! As I came into work proudly wearing my “I Voted” sticker, a co-worker begun to snicker at the fact that I woke up early just to go vote. Instantly my mind raced back to the old man who probably never had this chance at the age of 28. I proudly spoke out on the dangers of taking this liberty for granted. As the debate ensued, I knew forever which side of the line I would be on. After waking up early and going into work stinky (see my sick & tired blog) it was all worth it!!

Election Highlights!!

A tear of joy ran down my cheek today as Rumsfeld resigned…oh what perfect timing.

Did they really think the American people cared about Sadamm Hussein?

Two Hands

2006-11-09T00:12:00.000-05:00

If you go to my myspace page you will see a video link to the Ben Harper song titled “Two Hands” I first heard this song about a year or so ago in the bay and was instantly hooked. Never mind the pulsing reggae rhythms, the lyrics of this song cut straight to my heart. I have always wanted to help people, but more than not we as people end up taking care of number one first. This is human nature, and I am guilty of it more than most. During my stay in Jamaica I knew I had to make some changes in my life. I had been somewhat successful in the business world and had been another part in the corporate cog of America. There is nothing wiring with this as we all need to work and have to have a job. Yet in my soul, I knew that I was more than a guy who collected rent and scheduled apartment cleanings. I knew that I could help people as I once did I college and could make someone else’s day brighter.

On the beach one morning I prayed for God to make me a blessing to someone each day. Ironically I was thrown back to my Boy Scout motto, which says to “Do a good turn daily”. Back in the day this was seen as helping a old woman across the road, but in the modern times it is something as easy as holding the door open for a person. That extra five seconds you spend holding that door, may be the relief they needed to get them through the day. We have all been on both sides of that coin!!

Upon my return I knew I had to get active. I knew that my talents were being wasted if not for my sake, but for that sake of those who could not advocate for them selves. Unfortunately, the real world caught up to me quickly and the bills had to get paid. I had a little savings, but not enough to become a wandering missionary feeding the homeless. I had to work, so it was back to the man I went!!

In June I joined a new church. At first I was a little skeptical because it was across from my old high school and I was not really feeling the level of diversity I desired in a place of worship. I found myself doubting my ability to grow in this congregation. I went back a couple more times and decided to meet with the pastor for a little one on one Q’n A. As we discussed all topics from church to politics to sports, I mentioned my desire to get active in the community. He also expressed a desire for that among the church members and suddenly we were speaking the same language. I instantly got tapped into a group through the church and before I knew was heading up a feed a family program for needy families in our town.

When it rains, it pours. Just about the time I was getting involved with this program, I had become also involved with a couple other volunteer organizations. One with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and eh other with a local church who has a basketball program for teens. all this in a matter of a month. In typical Oliver Fashion I could not say know and my evenings are completely booked. Careful what you wish (or pray) for. My beach prayer had been answered and in typical Godly fashion multiplied into abundance!! Now my problem is juggling my calendar so that I am able to participate in all activities equally while maintaining somewhat remnants of a social life. Fortunately I have been blessed to have everything line up on different days and weekends.
One of my friends asked me a “why are you doing all this stuff”. My reply was simply because I can and I want to. As much as I would love to come home one evening from work and relax, I feel so much better about things knowing that I made a difference in someone’s life today…guess its still the Boy Scout in me!!

I am such a Weener

2006-11-09T00:09:00.000-05:00

At what point did Halloween surpass Christmas as my favorite holiday? I am not sure, but I do know that this one-day (or weekend) is just as important to me now as ever before. Christmas is always and forever number one because of the religious implications, but Halloween has been bumped up to a solid #2 based solely on fun potential alone.

2 years ago a friend drop some tickets on me and my roommate to see the “Exotic Erotic Ball” in San Fran. I had know idea what this was so we went dressed in street clothes. This took place the weekend before Halloween so most people came dressed in a costume or lack their of. At this point in my life I had never really lived in a major city and never new the extremes of diversity. Five minutes at the ball changed my idea of the word costume all together. I was at first appalled, then I could not look away as the costumes became more and more extravagant, I made a vow to never show up to a party again not dressed for the occasion. Halloween took on a new meaning, not one of ghost and ghouls, but one of creativity and originality. The best costumes are the ones that are a little different and defiantly cheesy!!

Over the next year I had done some careful watching of pop culture to see which costume would I attempt to pull off. At the time (2005) Dave Chappelle had just launched his double disk CD featuring a comic bit about the “Lil Jon” I had to do it. So I went out and got the whole costume from a ATL hat to a fake gold grill!! My friends were shocked and the two parties I went to were tons of fun. The Halloween party in Downtown SF was out of control as 200k people packed the streets for this occasion. My camera was in overdrive as I snapped photos with everyone!! I had a blast and the Halloween bug and definitely stung me.

As this year approached I was unable to secure a costume to surpass last years feat so I brought back Lil Jon for some east coast love. Again he was a smash and the focal point of many pictures. On Halloween night I decided to switch it up and break out my back up costume, the “Hooray Beer” guy from the Red Stripe commercials. This did not go over as well, but to the fans of originality, this was pretty funny. During my celebrations I got some pics with some great costumes including the “Appliance Direct Guy”, Caption Crunch, ad Borat. All these costumes helped bolster the spirit of the holiday!! The next day I had to go to Wal Martt to pick up some supplies for my job, sure enough, the Christmas decorations were up and Halloween candies were all on sale, how quickly life changes moods in less than 24 hours!! Oh well, I guess it time for jingle bells!!

The Champ

2006-10-22T23:17:00.000-04:00

Can I get the nation of origin??

This weekend I help out with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra again. It was a simple little fundraiser over by the UCF campus. During the festival they had various competitions for kids including Spelling Bees’ and a math Olympics. As each child made their way up to the podium, I too was in the competition from the comforts of my booth. I had no fears of misspelling a word in front of hundreds of people. Major kudos to all the kids who went through with the event, I barely made it out of the first round.

In the afternoon they put out an open call for a geography bowl. This was down my alley. I am a terrible speller. I honestly think my brain does not always function the way it should sometimes, as I should be a better speller than I am. Fortunately that when it comes to history and geography, I excel a little more than the average bear. I joined the open call line for geography. With a lot less people in the audience I was feeling a little more confident. My competitive juices started to flow and the competetion turned from a friendly tongue and cheek laugher, to a battle of the minds. I made the finals, but could not figure out where the green mountains were located…(Vermont, btw)

I got third place and a free game of bowling for my knowledge. I haven’t gotten an academic award in years. It was almost like being in second grade again something’s never change!!

Uncle Fro Zone

2006-10-22T22:51:00.000-04:00

The Incredible’s…

As I came from church today I saw a red flash wiz before me and bolt upstairs. Two more pint sized crimson marauders quickly followed. My brother-in-law ran down the stairs and asked me for my camera which I had on me at the time. He quickly snatched it and raced back upstairs. The sudden commotion sparked my interest and I shortly followed to see exactly what all this “hootin and a hollerin” was about!!

A picture says a thousand words!! My nephews were so excited to take this picture that it took me five minutes o just get them to stand for one pose. I am Uncle Oliver around the house, but I am also known as “Fro – Zone”, so I used my freeze ray to keep everyone still for the pic.

With so much going on in the world…it is awesome when we take a few moments to just be a little silly…Some might consider this to be "Incredible" more than any super power!!

A moment's thought

2006-10-09T16:52:00.000-04:00

In the blinking of the eye…

Children with Autism need special attention. They can be challenged in so many ways. One of my nephews is challenged with this mental disorder. Fortunately my sister and brother-in-law were blessed enough to make the necessary sacrifices in order to ensure his adaptation to our social society. Many parents are not as fortunate as they have been. It is difficult; as many people do not totally understand the challenge a child with autism can present. With each day I have my nephew around me, I am thankful for the progress he has made from barely being able to speak two years ago, to now not being able to “be quiet”. With each day it is the small victories you must take.

A family friend recently suffered a terrible loss. His nephew also has autism and is just a year younger than mine. His mother only left the child in the car for a moment to drop something off in her parent’s house. The child does not speak at all and loves to play in water even though he cannot swim. Yesterday the police searched the neighborhood for this little boy, today his body was found in a pond near the home of his grandparents. As unfortunate as this is, I can’t imagine how his mother feels for the brief moment she left him unattended. My thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family as they must not only deal with the lost, but also the guilt of a mistake so many of us have made.
If you get a moment, please pray for the family of Aaron Campbell as they endure this terrible loss.

Today's Conditions Call For

2006-10-08T05:05:00.000-04:00

The contrast….

The day started with a trip to the local soccer fields. Parents packed their kids in SUV’s and minivans in order to catch a glimpse of the next greatest talent… A girl who played on my nephews teams who scored at least ten goals today. It is only the 3 –5 year old league, but she is simply amazing. I was shocked to see how one child could dominate a sport above beyond her pears. Today I really got a glance at true greatness.

My voice went south from screaming and yelling. I was a true “soccer mom” minus the mom and insert an “uncle”. As I cheered on my three nephews, I was taken back to my glory days on the pitch. Our team would be loaded with future talent and even better friends. It was just last week I was reveling with a former teammate at my ten year reunion on the dynasty that was the 1985 – 1986 Deltona Killer Bee’s!! Watching my nephews run around the field was more fun for me than I think them. I was with them on every

As I returned home I got the call the beach plans were still on. A short drive out to Cocoa beach and we were officially beach bumming it up for the day. Cocoa Beach is a open container beach which we took full advantage of… Once on the beach I quickly reminisced my trip to Jamaica. Needless to say I was happy you be hearing the sound of the ocean again. It was though I was reunited with a long lost friend…I am turning into “The Old Man & The Sea”

After my moments of nostalgia the real reason we were there started. A little beach volleyball. The first sets of challengers were disposed of quickly. My counterparts and I were playing decent, wait, did I say I….. hmmmmm I think decent is a stretch for the steaming pile of athletic performance that I displayed. A whiff, a service error, bad pass, and a few “my bad’s” pretty much some up my play for the day. If a chain is only as strong as it weakest link, then our chain was just busted!! We managed to scrape out another win. I am pretty sure Dirk did not want to even look at me on the ride home, his disappointment was something I had gotten used to by the end of the day. In my defense, I have not played volleyball competitively since high school; not making an excuse, but this is just a notation. A quick swim in the ocean and we were back on the road.

Hung out in Orlando for a few minutes, but our plans for the night got cut short by a work pager call. No worries, I was exhausted at this point and was happy to be heading home. As I approached my house a few drizzles began to fall. I thought nothing of it as the skies were absolutely clear at the beach. The day was simply amazing and I could not have asked for better beach weather. Almost on cue, as I closed the door behind me, that light drizzle became a full out downpour. I later learned of the massive storm systems that followed me home and left tornado sightings all over Orlando…

Tired, I turned in early as I had a long day ahead of me. As I reflect on the day I notice the contrast that existed…True athletic greatness vs. athletic disgrace…Weather that reminds you of what heaven will be like vs. Rain can ruin anyone’s parade with a quickness!!

Southies...

2006-10-07T01:44:00.000-04:00

The Departed…

I admit it. Freakin Marky Mark can act. I don’t know why, but he has always been the actor I love to hate. Now I don’t admit this often, but in a rare occasion, I am can be mistaken. He has really changed from his bubble gum bad boy image with the funky bunch to be one of Hollywood’s best actors. The rest of the cast for the Departed was also stunning on set. As usual, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Wahlberg all made the characters quite real, and extremely funny. I guess this was the most surprising aspect of this film as I found myself laughing through most of the movie.

A few years ago I got to visit Chicago, which is the site of one of my favorite movies the “Blues Brothers”. As I drove around Chi Town, I made my way to “Lower Wacker Drive”. Instantly I began laughing as I remember the scene from the Blues brothers being chased throughout the city of Chicago. Suddenly the silver screen did not seem so far distant, and that “movie magic” could be touched. The Departed had this same affect on me because it was filmed throughout the Boston Area. For those who have visited Boston, the film takes you through the city and into the neighborhoods as though you were walking up Beacon Hill. Less than year ago I visited Boston for the first time. I was shocked by how much history was in the city, but even more impressed by how well the cultural areas are preserved. As my guide took me around the city I got to see so many attractions and was able to get a deeper appreciation for the Bostonian culture. This movie brings this culture to life through its subtle expression of cultural art. Needless to say, those movie guys know a thing or two about putting on a good show!!

I definitely recommend this flick to all who enjoy a different look at a gangsta flick or for those who love the city of Boston, either way you will be entertained!!

Lost...

2006-10-05T23:08:00.000-04:00

You are at a party; you walk over to some friends who are already in the middle of a story. 15 seconds later they start laughing but you missed the entire joke. The rest of the night you are trying to figure out what was said that was so dang funny?? You are lost!!

Last night this is how I felt after watching the season premiere of “Lost”. I am contemplating now if I should to go out and buy seasons one or two to get caught up, or should I just let it go?? I must say that I am very intrigued now than I was a couple years ago when the show first started, I think it could be a good series, but unlike 24, you can’t just start in the middle of the series, you need to understand everything that has happened thus far. My sister-in-law watches this show in England I know, maybe I can get a quick update from her?? So anyone “in the know”, please fill me in on this whole “Lost” thing…

The Bill of Rights....

2006-10-05T01:49:00.000-04:00

The Cost of Freedom & A Lesson in Forgiveness

As the Puritans crossed the icy Atlantic in search of religious freedom, they set foot on a country where democracy would prevail. Escaping the oppression of the British government, they brought with them the ideals of such documents as the “Magna Carta”, something this country would be built on. Our forefather’s took these ideas to heart when they drafted our constitution. They worked diligently and creatively to establish a country for the people, with liberty and justice for all. The freedoms we enjoy so much are based on the depth of thought they put into these original documents, but that freedom comes with a price. A price we are unfortunately witnessing everyday.
First Amendment – Freedom of speech, press, religion, peaceable assembly, and to petition the government.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Second Amendment – Right for the people to keep and bear arms, as well as to maintain a militia.
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed.

The “Bill of Rights” is a guarantee of citizen’s rights in this country. They may practice many freedoms only dreamed about in other countries. The first two articles are held with great reverence in our everyday society. The first amendment is often one of the most contested as the “Right to Free Speech” this is debated even now as I type this blog. The “Patriot Act” allows congress to intimidate one from expressing themselves “freely”. The first amendment was set so that unpopular speech could and would be allowed, not so Howard Stern could talk about sex toys!! This is a small price to the freedom we are supposed to enjoy.

The second portion of the First Amendment deals with the right to practice religion freely and without disruption. The beauty of this law is that this was the ideal that the Puritans were after when they came to America, to be able to practice their faith without interference from the government. The Second Amendment gives persons a right to bear arms. This was established so a person could protect himself and family in a time of crisis or if a militia was needed for the protection of the country…even against its own self. My heart was saddened this week as these two rights intersected with a very deadly outcome.

In the movie “Kingpin” the Amish way of life is poked at with a sort of tongue and cheek mentality. As odd as they seem to the mainstream public, they are what make America the great. The fact they can practice their faith openly and without interruption is proof that our form of democracy is close to the original ideals of our forefathers. The members of this faith practice their traditions openly and unabashedly in our current society of 400hp cars and botox injections.

An estranged man enters a Amish Schoolhouse. Using his constitutional right, he is armed and begins to slay five young women. 3 victims die shortly after the bullets entered their bodies. Later, two sisters would die at the local hospital where 5 other girls are fighting for their lives. The killer, disgracefully, turns the gun on himself and ends this real-life nightmare.

Two freedoms operated independently but unfortunately intersected with a deadly conclusion. This is the unfortunate cost to our freedom. One might say without the right to bear arms, this would never happen, true, but the same could be said if we curbed religious freedoms, then an incident like Waco or Jerry Jones would never happen either. The unfortunate truth is that with every freedom we enjoy, there is a price and risk that we must also accept.

The Beauty of Faith…

I could not do it. I claim to be strong in my faith, but if had watched my two granddaughters innocently but horribly slip into eternity the night before, the last thing on my mind would be forgiveness. Unscripted, unprepared, and unexpectedly a news camera caught the grandfather of the two girls who died at the hospital. When asked how he was doing, he explained that he was unable to sleep. When asked if he forgave the killer? He said: "In my heart, yes," "through God's help."

Through this tribulation his faith is still present. I must say that my level of respect for those who practice the Amish way of life is at an all time high by the statement of this one man. The fact that the entire Amish community has embraced the killer and his family speaks volumes to the depth of human forgiveness. Even in their darkest of hours, the beauty of this Amish truth, loving one another, can light the very world they choose to separate themselves from.

At the end of the day one must examine his or her life…how much lost could we bear and still hold on to our ideals?? How strong in our personal faith are we that we could find solace in embracing the very one that causes us so much pain?? These questions linger in my head as I re-evaluate my relationships and those I seem to be unable to forgive. How insignificant do my petty feuds seem when balanced against those who have lost so much…
My prayers go out to the hearts broken by this tragedy and the lives taken for a simple lesson to be learned…

No More Glasses...

2006-10-04T23:05:00.000-04:00

Like sands through the hour glass…

It’s already October!! What happened to 2006? It’s almost over already!! I can’t believe that I’m making my plans for the 2007!!
This year is flying by. I have made so many changes in my life in just a short amount of time. It is amazing how one day you go to sleep as a child, and the next day you wake up as an adult. I still am a kid though and this life is just a playground. This is one of those years I will look back on and appreciate the choices I have made both good and bad. They are the choices I chose to make, and that makes me very happy regardless of the outcome. Grabbing the reigns to your life is an empowering feeling, even if those reigns are leading you down a difficult road. The first 9 months of this year have been filled with so many great stories and experiences. It would be impossible to chronicle them even in this silly blog, yet I know that this year above all others may have been the most important in my life thus far. As I am still trying to finish it out strong, I recognize the growth that has happened even since the beginning of the year. This growth I have achieved is still based on the system of weights I choose to balance it against. My dream is to eliminate these weights and achieve true enlightenment beyond the eyes of my peers and my own silly judgments. In the classic cliché of the “glass being half full or half empty”, my goal is to get to a point were there is no glass at all…I want the water to be free to flow in whatever direction possible…no walls, no barriers, no holds on ones mind. This is freedom from the burdens of this life…I am not there yet, but the journey has been part of the joy!!

Colors.....

2006-10-02T00:41:00.000-04:00

Sorry I have been an away for a while, but will have some good stuff this week….

Color.....

Mine is purple. As a kid you were always asked what is your favorite color. How difficult a decision for a 4yr old to make?? Deciding right then and there what it is going to be for the next 70 yrs!! Ironically, I think color speaks volumes to who you are as person. So maybe your choice in color is pre-determined by your personality?

I recently had a conversation with a friend in regards to our favorite colors. The fascinating part of the discussion is when we both described how important that color was to both of us. Who would of thought that something so insignificant to a child could sum up a person once they become an adult?? I as examined this further I find that we tend to grow into our color just as we do many things in life. It is a Chicken vs Egg equation, did you have the character traits before the color, or did you naturally grow into that color?? In my case, Purple, is often the symbol of royalty…with my last name, I am not sure which came first, but it is funny that the combination came together nonetheless.

A couple years ago I went to England for a visit. One of my goals was to find the perfect purple shirt. Across the pond, Purple is a more of a popular color (or colour, for my British readers…) than over here in the states so my selection was greater. So last night as we took my Mom out for her B-Day, I broke out my shirt and tie to signify the occasion. As always the compliments came in rather frequently as I am sure not many men want to venture out the house looking like Barney!! Nevertheless, it is my favorite shirt, and I like it quite a bit.

So for all you bloggers, I want to know what your favorite color is and how it defines you? Do you find yourself aspiring to fulfill the stigma associated with a certain color? Do you even have a favorite color?? Inquiring minds want to know??

The View!!

2006-09-16T00:25:00.000-04:00

I love Rosie O’Donnell… I think she is a talented comedian. I am a Christian though and was quite offended by her comments. It seems as though it is open seasons on Christian bashing by those in certain circles the liberal media. My question is this? Why is their so much animosity between the two sides? If I tell another Christian that I am liberal, you would think I said a 4-letter word to them. Tell a liberal that you are Christian, and they think you are a closed minded pig…how ironic??

I understand Rosie’s past run-ins with some of those who profess to be Christians, but I would think she would be able to recognize the difference between a good seed and a bad one? Calling us Terrorist is something that is unfair and really hurtful. I guess I expected more out of someone who is as intelligent and “open minded” as she is.

Being an African American male, I am far too aware of all the problems of discrimination of any kind. I empathize with those in the Homosexual movement because I consider it an extension of the civil rights movement 40 yrs ago. You have people fighting for equality and justice. Even though my personal and spiritual beliefs do not coincide with their social views, I would never think to impose my way of life on them nor would I begin to single them out as a terror to our society!!

I realize that there is a militant side to the Liberal agenda that often chooses to point out those on the militant Christian side, but is this not the contrast between MLK and Malcolm X. Both men fought for freedom and equality but went about it different ways. The true beauty of their story was that Malcolm in the latter days of his life came to understand that hate vs. hate only creates more hate. Unfortunately it was that same hate that ended the lives of both of these men before their times.

I wish that we as a people could truly understand the importance of tolerance for our civilization to survive. It is going to take a good effort on both side of the fence in order to get us all to a place were we can live in peace and harmony…

One Love….Love One Another!! (OLLOA)

Saying goodbye to my X

2006-09-13T22:10:00.000-04:00

This is never easy to do. Over the past few months the writing had been on the wall. I knew it was over, but I still tried to make the most of it. Unfortunately two nights ago it ended.

For the past 5 plus yrs my X has been in my life. I remember staying up all night with my X. We have traveled all over the world. A companion like I have never known, and now there is just an empty space in my bedroom. So much joy you have brought into my life…and now nevermore… nevermore!! Oh yes I miss you!!

If you can’ tell already, my X –Box died on me two nights ago. CPR only resulted in more traumas. I thought about sending it in to get looked at, but I knew it was time to just say goodbye!! So, it will be on to a new 360 now, I think I will donate my old one to someone who know how to fix’em up and hopefully a kid can share the joy that I once had!!
Goodbye dear friend…till we meet again in the giant video game room in the sky!!

Central Perk

2006-09-13T21:57:00.000-04:00

What makes a person a great friend? What makes someone a person who you want to be around for an extended period of time? I’ve found myself recently questioning those around me. As I have been thrown into this new life in Florida, I am finding that my old friends have changed as much as I have. The new friendships and bonds I am making are also interesting. But what makes a great friend? I think it’s time that is the best judge!!

I spent Labor Day weekend with some close High School Friends. The bond between us is sometimes closer than blood. Brother’s from another mother is an understatement in how close we are. As we begun our weekend shenanigans, the wife’s and girlfriend of these guys could only shake their heads at our ongoing stupidity!! What fools we mortals are!! Grown men acting like 12 yr old kids all over again. It was great. I have known these guys longer than I have known myself. They are such a part of my development as an adult; I can’t imagine my life with out them!! Very few people are lucky to share these types of friendships that have lasted over 15yrs! I consider myself blessed.

Throughout my life I have had thousands of acquaintances. These are people I have met through various organizations, clubs, sports, trips, bars, churches, etc… Have you ever tried to write down everyone you know? You will be amazed by the list!! Through all these people though, my list of close friends is fairly short. Not always by choice of my own, but some relationships dwindle over time, and some never lose a spark. It is just based on the connection you may have with that person. I have one friend who I have known since I was 5. We are so close that the language between us is unspoken. A simple glance and we are cracking up on the ground!! I have another set of friends that started around 6th grade. These guys also have that same dialect with me. Once I reached Kansas, I had to make find a new set of friends being all alone. I quickly bonded with my roommate and other kids in my dorm. My band friends also are like brothers and sisters to me in a strange band universe!! (it is a band thing, you wouldn’t understand).

After college though, the trend suddenly stopped. I found myself at the end of my exclusive friend list. For a new friend to be added on, it meant someone had to be deleted. I was thinking about the friends I have made in the past 5 years in comparison to the ones I made in the first 23 and the list is barely off of my two hands. As odd as this was, I noticed this more now in Florida than I did in Cali. As I am out mingling with friends here locally, I have met a ton of new people, yet I don’t feel the need to invite new friends into my life. I am not a snob; I just have all positions filled right now!! The relationships I currently have are enough to carry me through. This saddens me as I want to meet as many people as I can, yet I just don’t have the motivation to re-introduce myself over and over again. I am content with what I have been blessed with.
The Sunday before Labor Day we were all in a Starbucks lounging on chairs and avoiding the Florida rain. For a brief moment, I had to chuckle as my life had become a sit-com, everyone with coffee or tea in hand talking and laughing. I realized how fortunate I am to have all of you that I consider a friend in my life. Whether I have knwn you for a week or 23yrs, I have so many great stories about everyone. Even though I am not getting paid by the episode, the memories that have been made are truly priceless.

The Passion of the Crocodile Hunter

2006-09-05T00:49:00.000-04:00

Crikey!! This was the catch phrase of the late Steve Irwin. As I heard the news last night / this morning, I was taken back. I hadn’t felt like that in a long time about a famous person’s passing. It was as though someone you knew had just died. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the Croc Hunter, which ironically, I also feel like I know!!

As I examined my thoughts today upon hearing the news I wondered why I felt this way. I did not know the Croc Hunter. I have no idea when his birthday is, favorite foods, favorite color is, or if he really as animated in real life as he was on his show? The things I did know about Irwin were this. He was a man of PASSION. I think this single character trait shown above all his crazy antics, his silly catch phrases, or his Sportscenter commercial’s. Steve Irwin loved animals with an unwavering passion, a passion that he shared with the entire world.

People always say that cream rises to the top, I think this is the case with Irwin also. He had become the unofficial voice of wildlife exploration. I personally liked his shows and antics. I was amazed to see his wife right next to him as he went on all those crazy expeditions. In reality, how cool is it that he found someone who was as passionate about wildlife and nature as he was. I remember watching episodes were she would be right next to him as he is gripping a poisonous snake. Their love and passion for each other was bigger than a TV screen could show. In a small way, their relationship is one I think we all aspire to have, a partner who is in tune with our every step and shares deeply in our passions. I am sure she has suffered the most in this lost.

Tonight across the globe millions of animals will sleep better because of Steve Irwin. On one hand, they will not have to worry about a crazed Aussie sneaking up on them to show a camera unique markings, but on the other, his ability to raise awareness and interest in the general public will secure his legacy. Growing up I would watch nature shows for hours. These documentaries were shot and shown from monotone type settings, educational as it was, this was not the highlight of my week!! The Adventures of the Crocodile Hunter pumped new life in the Nature seen and brought new fans to see a guy really get excited about whatever animal he stumbled on. Again, the passion of Steve Irwin inspired so many people to either watch or just think about nature in a new way. For this we all are truly indebted to him.

The legend of the Croc Hunter will become immortal. Whether it’s the South Park parody episode or the references in pop culture, his status has not only made him a folk hero, but a international icon!! He will forever be remembered and missed by those of us who loved as he did, all of Gods wonderful creations.

RIP Steve, May God welcome you into his kingdom with open arms.

The Rule of Thumb

2006-08-31T02:02:00.000-04:00

Here are my five rules…

1. No Whining
2. Always Share
3. Remember your Please and Thank You’s
4. Listen to the Adults
5. **Uncle Oliver is always right

** The Rule of Thumb!!

On Monday School started for my 3 nephews. Over the past 9 months I have gotten to spend an extended period of time with them so they feel more like my own children than they do my nephews!! The youngest was starting K-4 and boy was he excited. In the morning they were all running around the house, but he was ready to go first. He had on his little book bag and was ready to go!!! It is amazing has fast they grow.

Taking them to school was a family affair!! Their parents were there along with my mom. I walked with them as we went into the courtyard and quickly dispersed to find their old friends. For the first time, all three boys ages 8, 6, & 3 were attending the same school. Their excitement was only topped by my anxiety as a concerned uncle. I know you have to let them go, but I was just a too attached to the youngest one. As he was sitting in his chair I could not help but smile at him as he was becoming his own person. No more flips, no more trips to the bathroom, he has grown up into a little man.

Over the summer I taught the kids the rules listed above. Of all the rules the most important is rule #5 or the rule of Thumb. Uncle Oliver is always right!!! This has become a joke between us, but now it is going to be challenged as they are all growing in knowledge and learning to think independently. The theory of Uncle Oliver always being right will soon be tested and challenged, as they grow older. As I enjoy my place of autocracy, I realize that part of their development will be to challenge the ideas and customs taught to them. The oldest has already discovered this independence of thought as he often tells me that I am not always right!!

As I review this list I wonder how much better each of our lives would be if we stuck to these five rules?

1. No Whining. - I am guilty of this many times over!!
2. Always Share – what would the world be like if those who controlled all the wealth truly followed this simple principle
3. Remember your Please’s and Thank You’s – Again, how many times in a day do we take thing for granted or forget to appreciate the little things that people do for us?
4. Listen to the Adults – Forget the adults, just listen, and don’t wait for your turn to speak!! I think again such a simple premise has been forgotten!!
5. Well, the Rule of Thumb should definitely be followed!! I am pretty sure that I would do a great job running things around here, but hey, nobody asked me how things should go!!

It is like one of those poster’s that read, Everything I needed to know I learned in Kindergarten!! If you ask any of my nephews what the five rules are they can tell you in a snap. I wonder if they could teach the world at least 4 out of 5??

K Fed

2006-08-21T07:50:00.000-04:00

Poor Brittany!!

Last night, between soccer matches, I was forced to watch the “K Fed” performance and the teen choice awards. How exciting!! This was quite possibly the worst performance by anyone I have ever seen in my life. It was like watching an American Idol performance gone horribly wrong!! After his “performance” they could only find one group of people who were cheering…I think it was his family!! He even looks like a young Vanilla Ice, a name no one wants to be compared to for any reason!! I feel sorry for Brittany and her baby daddy!! It’s not funny when everyone is laughing at you and you don’t even know it.

Soccer Addict!!

2006-08-21T07:42:00.000-04:00

Me…. a Soccer Hooligan???

A few months ago I wrote a blog on a soccer match that would be taking place between Barcelona and London Arsenal. This match features two of the world’s premiere players and was a precursor to the World Cup. As the world cup approached, my personal interest was at an all time peak!! I was excited to see America compete on the world stage and finally bring us some well-deserved respect!! That didn’t happen. The American team laid a big fat goose egg. Even though the competition was stiff, they really left their game stateside. This was a good thing for me. With no real media attention to the US team, the focus was on the rest of the world. My eyes really became open to “Soga Bonita”.

The World Cup had become my addiction. So much so, that when it was all said and done, I was beside myself with nothing to watch on TV. I could not get enough soccer. I scoured the Internet gathering information on every team and player I could find. I am completely, and have really since, ignoring the ongoing baseball season in preparation for the English Premiere league, which began this weekend. Just as in any sport I enjoy, the true sign of obsession is one thing….The Video Game!!

Whether its Madden, College Football, NBA Live, Baseball, or Golf. If it was a sport that I enjoyed, I was going to own the video game. When I was younger, I would stay up all night with a friend playing either Madden or College football until the sun came up. Recently I was over a friend’s house and he broke out a game that simulated the World Cup. Instantly my passion had been rekindled. We played a couple of matches and I got hooked. I went out and rented a game and just this weekend purchased it. Ironically, the game features countries from all over the world. My first team was Jamaica, of course, but they are still a bit raw in the game. My second team is the Queen’s own English Team!! Beckham, Rooney, and the boys have become my choice assassins. I am a addict!!

Last night was another session. As I arrived, the smack talking began!! 6 months ago if you had told me that I would not only own a soccer game, but be bragging about how good I was, I might have had you committed!! Now, I am a full-blown soccer hooligan. I spent hours on the phone with my brother in England discussing strategy and players. My knowledge of the sport, formations, and players has increased so rapidly that I recently joined a Fantasy Football (soccer) league in England. Isn’t the Internet great!! I cannot get enough soccer. My brother-in-law and I argue daily about players and why Jamaica’s team can’t get it together!!

I realized this weekend how bad my addiction has become. Not only was I driving 45 minutes just to play a couple of matches, in my dreams I am thinking about it. I wake up and search the net for unknown players who I can add to my team. Last night I played until a little after 3 AM and am up at 7 thinking about it again….I may need to see somebody about it….this can’t be healthy!!

In Due Time

2006-08-03T11:04:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite rap songs. Driving down the road it comes up on my playlist. Like a Ginsu knife, these words cut straight to my heart. It always amazes me how someone else’s words can audiate exactly what you want to say in your mind. As I am going through a sudden career change, Cee-Lo’s lyrics rip right into my mind and remind me of the peace I am still searching for.

Song: In Due Time
ARTIST (I stress ARTIST): Outkast f/ Cee-Lo
Album: Soul Food Soundtrack

Cee-Lo: Verse 2
Strugglin's just a part of my day
Many obstacles have been placed in my way
I know the only reason that I make it through
Is because I never stop believin in you
Some people wonder why we here in the first place
They can't believe because they ain't never seen your face
But even when you pray, the next day you gotta try
Can't wait for nobody to come down out the sky
You've got to realize that the world's a test
You can only do your best and let Him do the rest
You've got your life, and got your health
So quit procrastinatin and push it yourself
You've got to realize that the world's a test
You can only do your best and let Him do the rest
You've got your life, and got your health
So quit procrastinatin..

Chorus:
Just keep your faith in me
Don't act impatiently
You'll get where you need to be, in due time
Even when things are slow
Hold on and don't let go
I'll give you what I owe, in due time

Again these lyrics seem to sum up my feelings over the past couple of weeks. As the changes are rapidly approaching on the horizon it is important to hang on to my faith and understand that we “can only do our best and let him(God) do the rest”. Understanding that blessing do come down from above, but they also happen to those seek them out. Life is such a precious gift to not squeeze every drop out of it, would be a waste. My persistence will pay off one day I am sure, in this life or the next!!

Losing My Identity

2006-07-26T00:46:00.000-04:00

What defines you? Is it your actions? Things you say? Places you’ve been? What makes you unique in all that you do? Today I had a part of me ripped away; I lost part of my identity.

This may sound crazy, but I have recently been bumming about leaving the west coast. Growing up in Florida I never imagined that I would live in California never the less San Francisco of all places, I was just a little too conservative. After my time at KU, checking out to the left coast seemed much more appealing than a drive back home to Florida, California here I came. I spent almost 3 years in California. Looking back on it, I am sure that they will be some of the best years of my life. I met so many different kinds of people and really opened up my eyes to life in a way I never thought possible. Living in the Bay Area gave me so much of an education in humanities further than any text book could. It is truly amazing how so many different people can interact on one geographical area. In the end, San Francisco became my friend in every sense of the word. Loyal, interesting, and charismatic are a few words that double as a description of the city and a great pal. I would often enjoy my free days in the city just wandering around by myself discovering it’s endless quirks. SF is a place like no other in the world.

I recently took my real estate exam. As apart of the licensing process, one must obtain a Florida drivers license. As I scheduled my DMV appointment, it was going to require something of me I was trying to avoid. I had to surrender my California driver’s license that I had possessed for a little over two years. I was not happy about this at all. Before my appointment today, I tried to conjure up different stories that would enable to retain a little piece of California I had carried around in my wallet for the past 7 months. I am not a very good liar, which ultimately meant I had to face the inevitable: I was going to lose my identity and there was no going back.

As I approached the counter I felt like a martyr walking to the gallows. I knew that these were the last moments I would be able to whip out that funny looking license and draw the attention of all Fl natives who observed it. I was assimilating into the Floridian culture much to my dismay. Gone now are the trips to Fisherman’s Wharf and Marina district. Gone are the drives up the Pacific Coast Highway and across the Golden Gate Bridge. No longer shall I taste the wine squeezed from grapes I had become all too familiar with. In a final plea I begged with the worker for me to retain the ID, but she would not budge. She quickly confiscated the contra band ID and sliced it in two pieces with the precision of a guillotine blade. And just like that it was over. Three years of my life cut in half and discarded forever.

As I received my new ID, I quickly put it in my wallet. I knew that it would not fill the recent void in the same way its’ predecessor had. Slowly but surely I am sure I will begin to welcome this newfound identity and embrace its ways. It is hard for me to believe that it was just 10 yrs ago that I left this very same address, my life has changed so much since then.

Now is the time for new beginnings and adventures. I will have to find new streets to call my friends’ and replace wine grapes with fresh squeezed Orange Juice…I guess it is healthier for you anyway!!

Joe Joe the Wiz

2006-07-24T00:25:00.000-04:00

My nephew Joseph is going to be a freaking computer genius. My brother has always been amazing on computers; there is a ton of truth in saying about the apple and the tree. (Although they are not a Mac family…ha ha…I gotta start writing this stuff down)

I got to spend the day with my brother and his family. Again this is the reason I moved back to Florida, as it was a great way to spend a Sunday. My nephew Joe is only 4, yet he knows how to navigate the web like a season vet. Hew took me to his own computer which runs on Microsoft Vista…this hasn’t even come out yet…. He took me to his favorite websites like it was yesterday’s news. At one point I forgot that I was talking to a 4 yr old and started to ask him questions about the graphics card? He just stared at me, oh yeah, you are 4yrs old, most adults don’t know what a graphics card does. Little Joe will be going into Pre-K in a couple of weeks. I can’t imagine his teacher will be able to teacher him much. This kid is going to be something special, some kind of genius…just like his Uncle!!

Out of Touch

2006-07-23T23:58:00.000-04:00

The past couple of nights have been very disappointing for me. I have always heard the old saying of “Use it or Lose it”. I have associated this saying with talents that I had worked to achieve such as musical ability and basketball. I have always been rather competitive in these areas even if I took an extended period of time away. But these are not the areas of my disappointment.

Pool: I used to be The Miz

On Friday night I met some friends out and we played a few games of pool. I did not realize how badly my game had gotten. In the matter of a year I had gone from a decent player, to absolute garbage with a pool cue in my hand. It was rather embarrassing as the girls we were with made me look like I have never played the game before. My first shot consisted of me missing the ball I was aiming for and launching the cue ball around table. The worst part is that I began this episode by explaing to my friends how I would destroy them. Open mouth, insert das boot.

Result: Lost all four games I played in including twice to an all female team.

Bowling: They don’t call me Kingpin for nothing.

As if I did not learn my lesson enough on Friday night. Last night we went bowling. Again I began to explain to people how I was a decent bowler. My first throw rocketed down the lane and went directly into the gutter!! I followed that in the next frame with a double goose egg. They call me Big O, but it should be Big Zer-O after that performance. My bowling skills disappeared faster than government surplus from the Clinton administration.

Result: 94 pins of a 160+ average.

Darts: Does Anybody Really Throw Straight?

My English roots lead me into playing darts / cricket back in college. My uncle is a nationally ranked player in England and he showed me a couple of tricks. I thought of all games I would be able to hold my own in this. WRONG, WRONG. This was by far the worst of the three experiences. My darts were hitting everything but the board. I spent more time putting the broken pieces back together than I did throwing them.

Result: DNF frustration reached an all time high.

All of these games were played in front of some people who were eager to point out my deficiencies. This only added to my frustration. I lost my touch, but I am determined to get back what was once mine.

A Redwood Tree vs Zues...Who Wins?

2006-07-19T01:34:00.000-04:00

I am not a fan of lightning. As a kid, I would sleep in my parent’s bed whenever I heard the thunder or saw the flashing of light. Once the lightning got too close, I would knock on my parent’s bedroom door. I now understand why my father would be upset with me each night there was a storm, this happened about once or twice a week for 3 or 4 years!!

Tonight as I drove back from the airport I was marveled by a tremendous storm. Every 10 – 15 seconds, the sky would illuminate with electric bolts. Zeus was very angry tonight!! Last night over 20,000 bolts were recorded in the Central Florida area. As I was driving home through the storm, I began to feel a little overwhelmed. My hands were at 10 & 2 on the wheel and I began to revert to the small child within me wanting to knock on the door.

A little over a year ago I took a trip to John Muir Woods. This is a national forest located about 20 miles north of San Francisco. It was one of the most amazing places on earth. John Muir Woods features an entire colony of Redwood trees spanning a few hundred acres. Redwood trees are the tallest on earth. They can grow up to be over 360+ ft high and have a lifespan of 1100+ yrs. As I walked around this national park, pure amazement was an understatement of how I felt. I was with a friend and we caught up to a ranger tour telling all about the forest and its famous trees. As the ranger recited facts upon facts she mentioned a special niche that I will never forget. Redwood trees do not burn. As if I was astonished enough by the sheer size and height of these trees, the fact that they are naturally fireproof threw me for a loop. How is this possible I asked?? Redwood trees produce a chemical in their sap called tannin that makes their wood almost impossible to burn and immune to fire. Around the turn of the century loggers almost put these trees into extinction because of this amazing characteristic. A lumber that could stand up to any fire was priceless then as it is now. California Redwood trees were manufactured and shipped all over the world. Thankfully the government stepped in to protect the trees and preserve certain areas as national parks.

On the tour I had to ask another question about lightning and the trees. Being so tall, it would seem inevitable that a tree would get struck, and subsequently catch on fire? The ranger informed that the tree actually do get hit, but are immune to the fire once again. A little damage may occur, but overall they can survive any thunderstorm with out a fret of lighting.

At the end of the book of Job, God appears to Job and begins to explain to him the creation. God tells job how the mountains, trees, and all the animals that inhabit the earth were made. God explains the joys in making each item unique and special, and how this infinite wisdom was beyond our comprehension and understanding. I am sure that God made these redwood trees immune to fire just to keep things interesting! As I said before God must have a sense of humor as we try to figure out how this all got here!!

As my mind returned from a brief daydream and began to refocus on the road ahead, I felt once again connected to the creator. God made the Redwood trees just the same way you and I were made, special and unique. We all have fears. We all have danger about us. We are all also special in someway. Although I am pretty sure no one is fireproof, we all have been given special talents like no one else in the world. We all are our own little Redwood trees; we just have to find our niche!!

BW

2006-07-14T01:09:00.000-04:00

Birthday Wish

Today I pray my birthday wish will come true.

Peace to all mankind.

As a birthday present for me, could you say a little prayer that this will be achieved someday soon? I realize it would take quite a bit of effort all over the world, but the images that are flooding in are staggering. The next few days and weeks could prove to be important for stability in regions all over the planet. The world has seen enough lives being lost through natural disasters and disease; we do not need bombs to take away any more. Say a little prayer for me today for world peace all over the world. North Korea, the African nations at war, the Middle East, India & Pakistan, and all other places where people speak with bullets rather than words of love. They need your thoughts, they need your prayers!!

This would be the greatest present I could ever ask for!!

I got a secret!!

2006-07-07T00:56:00.000-04:00

Can you keep a secret? Really, if someone tells you something, does it go in the vault?? If you then tell that secret to your best friend, did you really keep that secret? The ability to share information with one another is a show of knowledge. If knowledge equals power, than the knowledge of secrets creates even more power.

A secret can be a very powerful bit of information. It can be used to manipulate a situation or given the upper hand in a business deal. It could drive one to extreme measures to keep it hidden or told in efforts to relieve ones personal torment. The variations of secret are as complex as the secrets themselves. Still, we all have them, and we all fear ‘em.

I love reading people’s bio, especially when they say that they have no secrets. That is just a bold face lie. As always, those people are the ones with the most to hide. We all have things in our lives that we are either not proud of, or too prideful to let be known. It is interesting to examine your own personal secrets. I have found that it is not the secret itself that is difficult to deal with as much as it is the thought of ridicule you might receive for revealing it.

The classic case of this is the Clinton – Lewinsky scandal. One secret told over the phone, led to a national media zoo over something that was supposed to be “on the DL”!! However, this incident proved how one little secret could define a generation’s view of sex, sexual relations, and it’s place in American politics. Monica’s faith in Linda Tripp proved to be her downfall much more than the relationship itself. I am sure if she had to do it all over again, she would have just called to hello!!

One of my friends is in the Masonic Lodge. He is open about some of the items that go on, but is very selective in what information he will divulge. I find it fascinating that the secrets of the lodge have gone on for so long without the truth being exposed. I guess some people are better at keeping secrets than others.

In the mafia, a person who cannot keep a secret is often called a rat or snitch. They are subsequently put in the witness protection program to conceal their identity from those who would harm them. In doing this, they lose everything they have because they told a secret. That seems like a pretty hefty price to pay for information, but I guess that is what you have to do if you can’t keep a secret.

I wonder if we would be more inclined to tell our secrets if we knew the person we told them to would be like a mason and take it with them to the grave. I think the greatest fear for most of us is that they would rat us out and then disappear, without any accountability for their actions.

Who can you trust?? Does any one person know all of your secrets?? I have always felt that if they put all of my friends in a room, they might be able to find out everything about me, but it would take a large room and a ton of time!! I am also pondering how many secrets I know, have I been good about keeping those?? Have I ever passed on a secret in thinking that it was going to be confided to another without really knowing the other person’s intent?? These are all questions I am asking myself as I am beginning to re-categorize my friends. I think similar to the Masonic lodge; you have friends in different levels or degree’s of depth. Those who you could trust with your deepest darkest secrets, and those who wouldn’t tell your phone number. Is this a true litmus test of friendship?? Do secrets define your relationship with the ones closest to you?? I hope not.

The real reason I am writing this is because I got a bit of news today from someone who I thought was a friend. I can’t really say that they were keeping a secret from me, but I felt that they really could have revealed the information much earlier then when they did. Should I be upset?? After I got the message, I was not upset about the information in the message as much as I the fact that I was the last to know. Is this not a insult in so many ways, or I am turning this into something more than it needs to be?

Sussudio

2006-07-06T00:18:00.000-04:00

It is funny how when you are young you do things that you just have to laugh about when you get older. I grew up in the 80’s. I‘m a product of Run DMC and hair bands, with a little left over 70’s soul on the side. As I listen to these tunes now, I realize all the words I was singing…I realize why my mom would not let me sing ”like a virgin”!! I thought it was a catchy tune, but I realize a little inappropriate for a 6yr old to be singing.

In college I sang in a men’s glee club. It was the first time I took singing seriously. The conductor of the choir not only made us learn the notes and rhythms, but we were required to translate from whatever language into English. We would sing songs from all genres including liturgical music. One of my favorite pieces was a version of “Kyrie Eleison”, this also happened to be the same name as on of my favorite 80’s tune.

A “Kyrie” is one of the oldest traditions in liturgical music. Translated, it simply means, “Lord, have mercy”. The song by Mr. Mister made so much more sense after I found out the true meaning of the words. One of the beautiful aspects of music is its ability to inspire throughout the generations, but it can reach people in so many ways. It can be timeless, just as a work of art. As you are evolving, so does your appreciation for the art. Now if I can just find out what “Sussudio” means??

360

2006-07-05T00:45:00.000-04:00

July 4th 360

Last night I made a little fireworks of my own…the real fireworks, not the kind you brag to your boys about!! My overwhelming fireworks explosion could not even keep the attention 3 kids who were so excited to see them. So tonight I decided to let last night’s exhibition speak for it self. I chose to stay in tonight and catch up on some schoolwork. Just as I was tearing into some realty law, it started.

I never thought the rockets red glare would find a home in Deltona. In Central Florida you can purchase agricultural fireworks for personal use from dealers with a simple wink. As fun as this was for me the night before, it turned out to be something special tonight. I was reading and heard the explosions outside. I thought I would check it out and see how many people had winked at the firework dealers. Millions!!

The city of Deltona was putting on quite a show to the north. I was amazed by the extravagant show they put on for a retirement town!! The real entertainment came from what seemed to be hundreds of mini firework shows going on all around me. Every direction I turned, I saw whistles and explosions of color. It was very entertaining.

After a few minutes I returned inside to continue with my studies, but to my dismay the sporadic crackle of a few mortar shells, turned into the overture of 1812 in an instant. It seemed as the city of Deltona was beginning the finally, the citizens also caught wind, deciding to take note and also fill the sky with mortars. As I observed the spectacle, I was taken back by the sky being filled brilliant colors of light in every direction.

America can learn from this. We all love fireworks. There are simple things can bring us together, things to rally behind for the greater good. It is amazing how patriotic we can be when given the chance. All around me people were enjoying a day set aside to remember the day our nation was established. As we celebrate this day, maybe we can work to make America’s Independence Day one the all people who inhabit this land can enjoy. Maybe we can make a 360 from where we have been in this country and start to look around. Then we would see that we are all the same and created equal just as our forefathers established on that day!!

Happy 4th!!

2006-07-04T12:10:00.000-04:00

Independence Day is a special day for all Americans and all people. The Declaration of Independence in 1776 marked a change in colonialism and marks the birth of our great nation. However, the best part of Independence Day is not the fireworks, it is the Nathan’s Hot Dog eating contest. I am about to be glued to my television for this event as I am placing bets with my brother in law!! America has a new hero and his name is Takeru Kobayashi!!

Oh yeah, don’t forget to vote!!

Superman Returns - A quick review

2006-07-02T02:15:00.000-04:00

If you have not seen Superman Returns, do not read this blog!!!

I just saw Superman tonight…Wow!! I must say that I was a little skeptical coming into the show because the new Superman was an unheard of guy from a soap opera!! Add to the fact they have been trying to make this move for the last decade and have been unsuccessful made me wonder if the legend of superman ended with Christopher Reeve. Boy was I wrong. This version of superman hit the nail right on the head. It did not miss on any level. It was a perfect combination of action and plot that kept me entertained as much as I was emotionally moved. Two thumbs way up.

So the movie has me here thinking about a couple of things that I must write before I go to bed tonight…here goes, hopefully I will spell things right and use all the right there’s!!!

A. Kryptonite

It is funny how a phrase from pop culture can become iconic in stature. Kryptonite, although Krypton is a real element, is just a made up item from the old superman comics. The real krypton is a gas found in the air, thanks wikipedia!! The character of Superman is something most people aspire too. Being strong, noble, and having a chiseled jaw line never hurt anyone I’m sure. Yet the trait I think we most identify with Superman is his weakness to kryptonite. We all have something that makes us weak and mortal. In this movie, superman must face an entire island of kryptonite even if it means his death. His determination to prevail in spite of eminent danger makes him even more of a hero. I think this is why we love him so much. He only has one weakness world, yet he would face that for the greater good. We all have our own weaknesses. Each time we are able to overcome our weakness; it makes you feel like you have a red cape on too. I think there is a little superman in all of us. That’s a good feeling to have.

B. Reading too much into it…maybe…maybe not??

As I was watching the movie, I pondered the character of Superman as a Christ like figure. This always happens in these types of movies were people want to draw the character into something they can relate to in their personal lives. I often try to dismiss these types of events because they often seem cheesy and farfetched. Many people said this about the matrix trilogy and Neo’s character also. When I go to a movie I watch it for entertainment purposes only. I recognize the movie making process as an art form and try not to breath to much into it. Yet, I understand that just like an artist, director’s can be influenced by many elements, both direct and abstract. They also can convey those influences, both directly and in a symbolic allusion to something deeper. It is difficult for me to separate the two now because in all I do, JC is always in the back of my mind. I am sitting here pondering if I am making the connection because I want to, or were their some undertones in the movie that I picked up on?? Anyone that has seen the movie please tell me you saw a couple scene’s towards the end that made you wonder if it was done on purpose?? Or just tell me I am crazy and that will be fine too!! Or I have to hope the DVD has a director’s commentary!!! At least now I can try to get some sleep!!

Out of my head

2006-06-30T02:41:00.000-04:00

Sometime I feel a little…

A few weeks ago I wrote about being balance and how essential that is to ones sanity. I need to take my own advice. This past week has been a blur. One part is my lack of sleep is causing me some serious focus issues, but I can’t sleep because I am constantly pondering different situations of my new found career. It is driving me insane at times…I got some warm wishes from a friend which helped me greatly and along with some prayer and good laughs today, I am back on a normal path so.

I was driving along tonight to see a friend and this song came on that I have not heard in years. The funny thing about it is that when it came out, I thought it was a catch tune, but never thought it would apply to my life. That’s the reason I believe God has a strong sense of humor. Call it Karma or whatever, but the things in our lives seem to always comeback to us full circle. I had to start laughing when I heard this tune because I just couldn’t believe it was so simple.

The group is “Fastball”, and the tune is “Out of my head”. Which perfectly describes how I was feeling over the past week. These are some of the lyrics that hit home:

Sometimes I feel
Like I am drunk behind the wheel
The wheel of prosperity
However it may roll
Give it a spin
See if you can somehow factor in
You know there’s always more than one way
To say exactly what you mean to say

Now it’s time to get some sleep!!

L8

Yahoo Q&A....

2006-06-28T01:58:00.000-04:00

As a child I really wanted to be an astronaut!! Growing up near the space coast, it was not to far from reality to dream about going into the great abyss of space. In 2nd grade the Space shuttle Challenger blew up as my entire class watched from the school courtyard. I did not recognize the risk each of those astronauts took as they waved goodbye for a final time before boarding the shuttle. Dreams can be chased forever, for those who live it though, there is know sweeter symphony than the dream achieved. I think every person who realizes a dream would gladly risk it all. Even through the fire!! These people are heroes beyond our reasoning; they risk it all for a dream.

Why don't we have flying cars??? The future section @ EPCOT had flying cars!The future is now, I want to FLY NOW!! Flying cars should not be that far away. We have the technology to make cars that hover by just usisng a series of magnets and electric currency. Why is there so much red tape to get the inventions out that would make the world a better place?? I would hate to think that governments would hold back science for the sake of the automobile & oil industry??? The same industry that has profited the most from our natural resources without thinking to secure the supplies for future generations...Oh say it ain't so!!!

Church Dating

2006-06-28T01:41:00.000-04:00

Church Dating

The architecture in a church building can be amazing. During my lifetime I have been fortunate enough to visit many house’s of worship around the world. I think the interesting thing about churches is how much stock people put in them. I myself have been going through quite a frustrating time recently as I am trying to find a decent place to worship.

I often compare finding a church to going on a blind date. I get nervous before I attend a service just like a date. You are really hoping that this relationship is going to be the one that knocks you off your feet, but it is never that way really. They usually try and wow you with beauty and pageantry in hoping you will be convinced in thinking they are the one for you. In the end, they are probably just after your money!!

Not to be so cynical but I am really having a difficult time finding a church. I have recently attended one that I think will be a nice fit for me, but just like a relationship, it is going to take some work. I will say this though, beauty is definitely on the inside when it comes to churches, not all places of worship may have the best exteriors, but once you get one the inside, you realize that the people are what make it beautiful. I have found some great places in my time that did not look like the Salisbury Cathedral, but I would give the world to be around those people for just an hour!! (No offense to the people of Salisbury, I did not attend services their!!)

Testing

2006-06-24T18:37:00.000-04:00

If I could

2006-06-22T01:52:00.000-04:00

I love this picture. I took it in Jamaica a few months ago. It was my last night and I was enjoying a final sunset. This pic was taken half heartedly, but now has become one of my favorites. I imagine being able to create landscapes and beautiful beaches. The do anything with the wave of my hand! It makes me think about a question:

If I could ________, I would ____________?

Filling in the blanks is much more difficult than I thought. So many options could go into that space, but to choose just one, this is a challenge! I would love to be able to fly. I would also want to help people though. Immortality is never a bad idea? Would I use my power for good or evil? If I went back in time to correct a wrong, would that really be right? It is an endless question with too many possibilities to ponder, but I want to know what you think? As the always say, be careful what you wish for, a great power may be a great burden also, i.e. the ability to heal people, might cause a mass hysteria of people knocking at your door. Drop me a line or sound off on what you would do? (Try not to end world hunger and poverty, as they are obvious answers.)

Reech Falls Story

2006-06-11T02:36:00.000-04:00

“Dis isa good one”
My Reech Falls Story
March 22nd, 2006

The Day started with a bang at the window. A local Rasta had shown up at about 6:30 AM to deliver the wrong fruits I ordered the day before. Unfortunately he banged on the window in Kacia and Stephie room instead of mine. Startling them out of their sleep, and sent me scrambling for my keys. I was actually awake and was reading some scripture that morning, so I was able reduce the amount of terror they had dramatically.

We had decided the night before that our trek would start from the house in Duncans and take us around the island to Kingston where our host Ruddy awaited. I was more inclined to cut strait through the center of the island and save about 6 hours off of roads I had never driven on. Ms. Stephanie insisted that we were going to hit up a few sights along the north east coast of Jamaica so I obliged. After we packed up and grabbed some fruit, we were on our way. Again, if you are just joining this blog, Stephie was my German navigator and Kacia was our backseat DJ. (This is day 1 to a 3 day trip around Jamaica, please Pelican Bar blog for day 2)

Our first stop was Fern Gully. The lonely planet guide stated that their were over 600 hundred different types of ferns alive in that ecosystem. I have always been told it was over 2000!! Jamaicans can dream I guess… We shot through the gully and noticed the brakes were grinding now worse than ever. Fern gully is a straight shot to Kingston and my instinct told me to head that direction. I did not want not be a party pooper and felt we should just go…what ever happens will happen!!

After Fern Gully we continued north along the cost seeing the most amazing scenery. Jamaica is truly a beautiful country. It is sad to see the disparity in the faces of its citizens as they rarely get to appreciate God’s gorgeous creation. I guess they are no different than any of us though who take things for granted!

Our next stop was in Anutta Bay. This is where my mother was born and is a few miles from where my grandma lives. (See my Granny’s Story blog) After a quick hello, we continued to our first real destination, “Somerset Falls.”

Somerset Falls is a lesser-known tourist spot, but offers a unique experience. I was still a bit edgy as I was wading in uncharted regions of Jamaica for me. I had a cell phone, but if anything went wrong, it would not take long for the sharks to smell blood. I had to relax and let go. I did not want to ruin the adventure for Stephie and Kacia, but my angst was evident. I reluctantly agreed to go on the tour and leave the car in the unmanned parking area. The tour consisted of a boat tour guide who took us along a sequence of waterfalls. For the adventurers, you can swim portions of the tour, but over all it does not pack the same excitement punch of Dunn’s River Falls. They do have an interesting nature trail and offer a great reception area for those of you interested in something different.

After a Somerset we were back on the road. We had a quick lunch in Port Antonio and we off to the famous Blue Lagoon. Again on the way we witnessed the most breathtaking sights sites as we navigated our way up the coast. The Blue & John Crows Mountains painted a picturesque background for our coastal jaunt. The Blue Lagoon was featured in that 80’s movie with Brook Shields. It has now become a tourist trap of a grand scale. What is a natural mystery has become a national misery as tourist are constantly panhandled by locals for everything. I refused to leave the car and let Kacia and Steph snap pictures for me. I did not get the good vibes I had been feelin for the majority of the trip after Somerset and saw what these guys were up too.

The next stop was Long Bay Beach. This is the top surf destination in Jamaica and I immediately knew why. Upon arrival the waves here were 3 to 4 feet higher than anywhere else we had visited, and this was a calm day. The beach was amazing because of the waves and yellow/white sand combination. I really recommend this spot for anyone who wants a great beach adventure without all of the traditional tourist haggles. The local were friendly and the area is quiet and remote.

Our final stop was a place called Reech Falls. My spider senses went haywire as we drove deeper and deeper in what seemed to be a jungle. Even our Lonely Planet guidebook was very vague on a true description of this place as Stephie told us. In the spirit of adventure though we pressed on. My new fear was now the ever diminishing sunlight and our 2 ½ hour trek to Kingston we had ahead. It was already 5pm and I was having serious doubts about ability to navigate in the dark. We were off the beaten path were very few local travel nevertheless tourist. One wrong turn and we would just end up on the back of a milk carton somewhere. We ventured onward.

Upon arrival to Reech, it was worse than I thought. There are no facilities. The road was blocked off and you are forced to park in a make shift lot. The “tours” for these excursions are done by locals. Nothing official or legitimate was in sight…what have we gotten into I thought, if ever there was a time to break out, this was it. I smiled as we got out of the car I expected my female companions to catch the same vibe I was and quickly dart out of Dodge like nothing happened. (Never doubt the will of a determined German!!) Stephie had her mind set. We were going to do this even if it meant life and limb. Again, I conceded and quoted “We made it this far”. We changed as our tour guided ditched his bike behind some woods. He explained to us that it would be a 30 min hike up the falls and 30 min back down….”RIGGGGHHHHTTT” That little voice inside of me now had a megaphone and was using it to bash me over the head repeatedly. I put up another objection based on the sake of time but my request was overruled. We were doing this come hell or high-water!!

Our hike began as we traveled up a remote path. We did not see any other tourist or locals here.(which would have been a refreshing sight.) In the back of my mind, I had this music playing….chhhhhhh….ahhhhhhhhh…killllllllllll..chhhhhhhhh…..I shook it off and followed behind our guide hesitantly. At any moment we could have been took, an I would not have been surprised. I did not know what to think. I brought my camaera and cell phone just incase things got shaky…at least I could use those to barter for our lives. At the top of our hike our guide got more and more friendly. I actually started to relax until he told me to leave me bag and camera on the ground…..”RRIGGGHHHHHTTTT…UMMMMM….NO!” I am a sucker??. Leave it on the ground, then he said he would take pictures of us as we came down??? “Come Again??…Come down what” After a few unenthusiastic glances at my travel partners, I handed over my camera and travel bag. I could not believe this was happening.

We climbed up a set of rocks. He explained that we would crawl down this hole and then swim under. He showed up by example and then helped us in… (this is where the story gets weird) Once we climbed in we witnessed something that was unbelievable. It was like a manmade Jacuzzi with jets coming in every direction. It felt so amazing and was well needed at the time to reduce the tension. Our guide told us to stand in an area when he whipped out my digital camera!! “Um Sir…that probably should not get wet” I said...”Yes, mon yes mon, it aright” He snapped a shot on told us to swim under… the rocks!!

As we surfaced we were back on the other side of the rocks we had just climbed. This was turning out to be pretty cool. Our guide was legit, and we made the most of it. The hike down was half in water half on land. We swam great portions of it including two amazing dive points. The first dive point was of a small set of rocks. Our guide was there every step of the way capturing these moments like a professional photographer, and the entire trip not one drop of water touched me camera. (Boy did my feet taste bad!!!) He was a true professional as he took his time helping us along the way and showing us some really cool spots. The last dive was a doozy. It was probably on 10 –12 feet high, but it seemed like a leap of death. Not only were we jumping into the water, but also we were jumping over some rocks. Steph volunteered to go first. 1…2…3…Jump…No jump!! Kacia steps up!! 1 ….2…3…Jump….No Jump!! Then it was my turn. Our guide had already demonstrated the proper technique, and came back up to get the camera. After a brief, delay, I decided to finally put on a pair of “man” pants that I had back in Duncans. I jumped.

Shooting up from the water I felt like Mark Spitz in all his Olympic glory. Sure I did not win anything, and only 3 other people observed my squirmy dive, but we had conquered more fears than I could conceive on this little adventure. The ladies followed suit jumping in. Stephie was last to go and I caught it on video!!

Before we left we were all ecstatic. I snapped a picture of our tour guide with the ladies. I asked him to take one more picture of us with Reech Falls in the background. After snapping the photo he replied. “Did isa gooog one.”

As darkness began to fall and we were going to the car, suddenly my initial fears had departed. Time had no power over us and we were enlightened. Our spirits were high, we paid our guide double the suggested amount in Lonely Planet and he provided us with some star apples and fresh coconuts to drink on our trek to Kingston. We even bought a little breathing toy from the Rasta who was hanging out aimlessly by the car. This was an adventure like non other!

The sun was in its last hour and we had to reach the eastern most portion of the island. We blazed a path along the coast and by sundown we were well on our way through the eastern banana plantations and heading on a straight shot to Kingston. Once we got to Kingston it was dark and I ironically got very lost. I called our host Ruddy and we met him at a local shopping plaza. We were all tired but still puzzled on how the day we had would be retold to family and friends upon our returns. So many times you hear a story and the person says, “You just had to be there!” For this case, I can’t imagine that these words do justice to our trip!!

With all the lessons I learned on my trip to Jamaica my trip to Reech Falls stands out as a reminder that you should never judge a book by its cover. Following your instincts can sometimes make you miss out on the greatest adventure of all…. Life!!

Key West One

2006-06-06T23:45:00.000-04:00

This is the best I remember. Pieces of the weekend that was Key West is still trickling in like Regan Economics…but I will try to briefly sum up the reason why men should not be aloud to party together without adult supervision.

The Prologue – It started downtown at Latitudes. This was a mistake to start a weekend off on a Wednesday, but we were leaving early in the morning, so we all met downtown. Good times once again. Although it was funny to walk downtown with a huge suitcase as scantly clad dressed women walked by. A fun night was had by all and we turned in rather early.

Weds June 1st – Day 1 – “Over and Dung before it begun”

Key West is long drive away. We left at 9ish and headed down the turnpike. Riding shotgun I got to pick and choose the tunes we would listen to. Team Alpha was in the Trailblazer. The Beta team left from a secret undisclosed location almost simultaneously. Our goal, was to obtain as much crazy Boy band ass as wee could get…(didn’t happen). I guess I should give you the list of my fellow bandmates and their bios.

Team Alpha:

Adam – aka “Daddy” – A Typical heart throb with the older brother charm
John – Confusing ethnic qualities and deadly wrestler...also very dirty
Luis – The Puerto Rican lover who has a special affection to jellyfish
Me – “Darkness” for the group giving the clique a little neo-soul

Team Beta:

Nyung - aka Dung – Crazy Asian leader of the pack
Dustin – The guy with great hair
Chri$tian – Dustin little brother who made us all keep on our shirts
Kim – quiet shy guy with a little dark side to him

Together we were 8 men on a mission.

Upon our arrival we got the party goin. “daddy” had set up the hotel and rent-a-car so everything was set. We got our scooters and were racing down Duvall Street looking for happy hours. We quickly got broken up and but all reunited at Crabby Dicks. What did people do before cell phones?? Right away a tone of rowdiness and debauchery was established. Eight guys can be pretty intimidating for normal patrons. As we walked from bar to bar, we picked bar stragglers like “Hot” Rod and others who just wanted to party…some people call them groupies. We ended happy hour at some Irish pub with a singer. After a few more we designated “Dung” to go up on stage and with a girl who was tagging along with us…funny, I cant remember any names…Key west is a open minded city. Many people know that it is a gay/lesbian stronghold. We didn’t want any part of that, but I thought it was awesome that people we accepting of a Vietnamese kid… singing a country song….in a Irish Pub!! “only in a America!!

After the pub we scooted back to the hotel. Somehow I missed the memo that we were not going back out. As I got ready and took a shower, everyone else decided to drink some more and go swimming. As I was finished getting sharply dressed, and began walking to the door, the door opened to laughter as the pool was going to be the resting place for these gentlemen tonight. Annoyed, I decided to be a team player and throw back on my trunks and get head to the pool. Sure enough as I come out the bathroom, I find the door opening again with everyone telling me how they got kicked out of the pool and decided to go out!! A few expletives were uttered in the direction of my travel mates but I once again decided to have a good time.

During my time getting ready, Nyung decided to head back to Ft. Lauderdale to see his a Lady. Not Cool. We were all heated as none of us wanted to see him go. It made the trip seem odd that someone would defect before it even really got started. Especially for me when Nyung was one of the original people who invited me to tag along on this trip. Originally this trip was to set for four. The irony is that I was before January, I had only met these guys a few times on trips to Florida. They were actually just mutual friends I had heard about through my HS buddies. But Nyung, Luis, and Adam convinced me to go and I agreed, it was awkward to have an original invitee become a deserter to his fellow mates. After much discussion his mind was set, and the boy band had its first defection. We decided to carry on as their were still 3 more days of fun to be had!!

We headed out to the strip again and continued to bar hop. Had cut back my intake greatly and decided to pay more attention to the fairer sex. I ran into a buddy I met a few weeks earlier in Jacksonville at a wedding. How Ironic, after a quick chat I turned more attention to other ladies but got nowhere…Oh well, we have a few more nights!! A midnight ride and we were home after a barrage of myspace jokes, we all retired for the evening. Our livers would only get a few hours rest before the morning mimosa’s called!!

To be continued…

Down with love!!

2006-05-25T21:47:00.000-04:00

Plecia nearctica

The love bugs are back.

I hate love bugs. I have know idea why God created them, he must have been just seeing what would happen if you stuck two bugs together and told them to paste themselves on as many cars as possible…he was successful. (Please notice I described God as “he”…this is another post for another day!!)

For those of you who do not know, a love bug is by far the most menacing insect to Florida drivers. They are fly-like insects that are stuck together in their rear. For a couple months out of the year they float along roads and highways destroying the paint of every passer by. There are times when the road will be darkened by their overwhelming presence. There is no escaping them, they are constant nusance. Growing up I spent countless evenings cleaning them off the grills of my parents cars. I had forgettoen completely about them until the other day when they attacked my windshield.

When I was younger would separate them from each other. I now know that this is apart of their mating ritual and I was a straight player hatin on some poor love bugs, but this was payback for the countless hours I spent cleaning their cousins of the grill of a Volvo. What sweet irony that a “lovebug” is hated by all!!

A Glass Ceiling from the Gutter

2006-05-25T20:59:00.000-04:00

Hello

Can you cut my lawn?
I need you to start at dawn!

HeY

Can she clean my house??
But be quiet like as a mouse??

Then

You can serve me some food.
Please don’t mind me being rude,

So

If you bOth can take the bus home,
I think I’ll drive to the spa alone

By the Way….

Do know any English?
No, then how much Can you really earn???

But

Please teach my kids Spanish,
They pRobably should learn!!

Wow

How many skIlls do you have?
You can do almost anything!

Oh…sorry

I can’T have you work at my office,

It’s the wholE immigration thing!!

Charlatan

Brushstroke!!

2006-05-21T22:56:00.000-04:00

Artist

“One, such as a painter, sculptor, or writer, who is able by virtue of imagination and talent or skill to create works of aesthetic value, especially in the fine arts.”

Far to often this term is used to refer to a cut rate entertainer who graces the cover of a magazine. An “Artist” is one who for a lack of better terms “Keeps it Real”. Don’t get me wrong, I like to shake my laffy taffy with the next guy, but there are times when you just really need a throw back to some real music and real musicians. This is by far one of the best concerts I have been to in a very very very….I can not stress very enough…long time. The House of Blues was off the hook last night, except for the 60yr old drunk couple in front of me!! It was one of those concerts that you did not want the band to stop playing. Nothing is better than live music. Nothing is better than watching a group of artist at their craft…

Thank you Roots & Common for showing Orlando what Hip Hop is supposed to be.

Why it hurts so bad...

2006-05-18T00:04:00.000-04:00

A KU Story

KU (University of Kansas) has just signed a top ten recruit for the upcoming year. This is a very big deal. Recruiting is essential to maintain a top tier program. As a modest fan, I try to follow what is going on up on the hill even though I am a thousand miles from the Campanile. (The modest thing is an understatement, I am a fanatic!!)

When I first went to KU, the team was ranked #1 in the nation. The 96-97 team was loaded with stars. Jacques Vaughn, Scott Pollard, Paul Pierce, Raef Lafrentz, and Billy Thomas are all alumni of that team who are currently in the NBA. As I watch them play now, I have a connection to them, but not the same that I have to more recent players.

During my student days, I played in the basketball band. We got to travel with the team and to all the tournaments. When the team lost, the band lost. When the team won, we got to travel…and travel we did!! Courtesy of the basketball team, I got to go all over the nation as a student performer. These trips were all expenses paid and even a little extra some days!! A winning team was more important to us than any other students on campus, our spring breaks all hung on the balance teams success. We were more informed than the opposing coaches. We studied every recruit and their potential to take us to the elusive Final Four. One of my good friends and I took it to another level as we would rate each player as potential on & off court stars and how that might affect our potential if a “thug” type player would affect the team. (See Lester Earl & Jeff Graves) Doing hours of research on people you have never met, gives you a relationship with these student athletes before they even step foot on the campus. We know their tendencies more than opposing coaches. At the school’s first practice, “Late Night”, we got to see them up close and personal.

Right now KU has a great incoming freshman and sophomore class of students that can take us far. The past two years we had exited in the first round of the tourney much to the dismay of the Jayhawk Nation. Both teams were whispered to be a championship caliber team and lost to schools ranked in the lower echelon of the tournament. With each loss, a group of seniors or outstanding underclassman will depart and make it to the NBA. This hurts as you never really get a chance to say goodbye to them as the walk through the tunnel for the last time of that season.

Recently, Kirk Hinrich, Nick Collison, Drew Gooden, Wayne Simien, and Aaron Miles have been the latest Jayhawks to make the jump NBA. All of these players took KU to the final four in consecutive years and nearly won the championship in 2002. I was extremely close to this group as I would work with them in the summer at basketball camps. I managed the dorm where they held the camp and would have to sneek the players in and out the back door at times to avoid the mobs of screaming kids hovering for an autograph. I got to know a few of the players pretty well and created an even closer bond with them. Each of these players was a true class act and were genuinely good guys. During the off season I would play lick up games at the gym and realize just how good they are…(and how bad I was).

When the team loses in the tournament it is like getting a unexpected phone call from your girlfriend saying she is breaking up with you. Your plans are suddenly thrown out the window as you have just been dumped for a school that has 4 scholarship players (@#$% Bucknell)!! With a loss like this though, it is worse because you have to say good bye to guys you get to know and feel like you have known since their junior year in high school when they were first recruited. You even know their middle names, favorite movies, and meals. You see them go from boys to men in the span of four years, and even though they may not know your name, they are a big part of your life. KU is ready to make another run starting this fall, I just hope that next March is the year the pain goes away.

Absolute Faith

2006-05-17T11:18:00.000-04:00

In absolute truth there is no faith.
Without faith we have no hope.
Without hope we have no dreams.
Without dreams our existence becomes dormant.

During my time here in Jamaica I have been doing quite a bit of meditating on things in life. My interest in others and their religion has been culminated by my quest to understand truth. So much is fed to one that “fact”, is often a matter of perception. As one changes his perspective, also his perception will follow suite. I find myself getting to a place of comfort, only to have a new idea challenge those ideas and send me on another quest. Grasping truth has been like grasping the wind, but maybe it was never meant to be held, only followed.

What is true? What is false? In school T or F test were the easiest or where they? What if you believed what is false to be true? Is it not true to you? The scientific method requires proof for a thesis or idea to become law. Through a system of test it can be proven that 1 + 1 = 2. This is basic equation that proves the idea of addition, because 1 + 1=3 is false. This sets a strong foundation and leaves no room for error in the theory. With no margin error in the theory this is called an absolute truth. Something so true it cannot be proven other wise.

An absolute truth is a great thing to establish. It allows you to place building blocks that advance everything from binary codes in computers to enormous mega structures like the Golden Gate Bridge. These truths often lead us to stay within its parameters that offer safety and consistency. When a person steps on his car brakes, the truths of friction and gravity slow them down. If the car did not stop, the person would be forced to question these theories, as it is the science behind brakes that makes the car stop.

One who has absolute truth has no need for faith. Again and again they can prove their theory by a group of experiments. Those who have a partial truth need faith in order to create an absolute truth in their mind. In their equation X + Y = 2. The question is now to a person of faith is what is that other truth? What is the X? X is infinite seeing it can be an equation within itself. Y can also be infinite seeing that there is no absolute. The only absolute is the end of the equation, which is 2. If I were to say that X = 4 then Y = (-2). This ongoing equation causes would go on for every possible number sequence. Yet it would still return to the absolute truth of the addition law.

How does this affect us in our day-to-day lives? Well we are faced with so many truths daily that it becomes often cloudy to observe the simple ones. Death is an absolute that we can never avoid. It is the end of all equations. Our existence in-between this absolute is what defines the X’s and Y’s of our lives. With every X, we must balance it with a Y in order to complete the equation. As a person of faith you are often faced with a question of the existence of God and his absolute being. This must be balanced with the truths that we know to be true in our lives. This can be very difficult as it seems the entire scientific agenda to is disprove the existence of God. In my equation, God serves as an absolute. I consider myself to have an absolute faith in believing in basic Christian principles. I understand that others may choose to believe strictly in science, or another faith. That’s okay. This is something that has happened since the beginning of time.

It is my belief that this equation will never be solved. If it could be scientifically proven that something supernatural existed, it would disengage the physical world, as we know it. Yet, there are so many signals pointing that something exists beyond our own understanding. This is where one would establish faith. Through it all, they are to many variables to firmly plant your foot in a stronghold and call it an absolute truth. Knowing this, one must take a “leap of faith” and create a foundation of truth in something in order to complete the equation. In my equation, Y = Yahweh. X = all other variables, but my Y never changes.
In my understanding of this principle, it has become obvious to me that this idea is far different than one would be taught in a textbook or church service. Each side has chosen to dismiss the other as they feel Science and God cannot co-exist. I beg to differ. I believe that they scratch each other’s back without even looking!! I think in years to come, a bridge will be made to understand our world along with a greater understanding of our creator. Until then, it will be a choice of faith in what you choose to, or not to believe.

Old School

2006-05-17T00:05:00.000-04:00

When something is “Old School” does it automatically get “Street Cred”??? I went to play basketball tonight and was called “Old School” by some of the high school kids. I did not care that much, as it just felt good to get out on the court again after a 3-month absence. My game is not what it used to be, but every now and then you can see a flash of greatness!!

I am not sure how I should take it as a compliment, or as an insult? At any rate, I am fine being OS…the kids were shocked by my ability even though my moves won’t be featured on an “And 1” videotape. After the first couple of jump shots, that barely grazed the rim, I took my game inside and used some of low post moves to get my shot going. I got some confidence and really started to get in the groove of the game. Soon I was making no look passes and hitting long range 3’s. “Old School got game!!”

My freshman year in High School I got cut from the basketball team. I was shocked. Coming out of 8th grade, and fresh of a 5th place state finish, I was assured a spot on the team. Getting cut was a huge ego bust. I remember not hearing my name being called and getting that feeling like an American Idol contestant…(”So you had a bad day”)….As I stared across the court to the kids on the team, I remember thinking…”I am better than him, him …and definitely him!!” I stormed out of the gym. My pride would not let me cry in front of other people, as soon as I got home, I balled.

I had some flaws in my game. The next day I grew up and asked the coach why I got cut. He detailed all the tools I was missing to be an effective player. It was something I did not want to hear, but definitely needed too. I practiced that year very hard…( I would have made Allen Iverson proud). I came back to the coach at the end of the school year after winning the county championship and asked for a spot on the team. He allowed me and another kid to be on the summer squad. I was satisfied.

My High School career was not one of legend. I was a decent player, but God did not bless me athletically like he did some people. My basketball IQ is what separated me from most HS players. I played my final 3 yrs HS and did not receive a single letter from any schools to join there college squad. I was okay with that. I had already punched my lunch ticket to Kansas on a Music Scholarship!!

At Kansas I became a basketball nut. For the first time in my life I became just a fan in the crowd. It was difficult at first to watch the team run out on the court and not hear anyone call your name, but after realizing how much work it would take, I was happy being a fan. My intramural team won the residence hall championship, and I became a “gym rat”. Everyday I would spend 2 –3 hours of study time on the court. The kid who once got cut as a freshman, was now becoming a gym deity. My grades suffered, but my “Street Cred” was on the rise.

Irony. Be careful what you wish for. My dream of becoming a drum major in college was achieved, but with a price. I strained my patella (kneecap), causing scar tissue to form in my left knee. People would asked why I stopped playing ball so much. I would respond with, “I hurt my knee in marching band”. (Insert rolling on the floor laughter here.) After each game, I iced my knees like any other athlete. My doctor told me to stay off of it, and they could remove the tissue once it was healed. I did not listen. I was back on the field the next week performing for thousands at halftime. My absence from the basketball court was replaced with new questions of “ Aren’t you the guy with the funny hat??”

These days my knee still has pain every now & then, and my game is nowhere it used to be. My biggest obstacle is the extra 30lbs being carried on my frame, not my knee. As I am getting older, my moves are a little slower than they used to be, but still effective enough to show the young kids some skills. Through it all I am happy to be “Old School”…I think o am supposed to spell it “Old Skool”???…I ‘m not that hip anymore!!!

Mother's Day Roses

2006-05-14T23:13:00.000-04:00

As you walk up to my house, you will pass a rose bush. This bush has been there since we moved in some 25yrs ago. Every season it will bloom with the most beautiful blossoms that make you stop in your tracks. My mom loves this rose bush, as do I. When I was a child I would surprise my mom when she got home from work. I would go outside, pick roses for her, and put them in a pot on a kitchen counter. I would then hide and watch her expression as she came through the door to find beautiful fresh picked roses. I got instant brownie points and got away with forgetting to take out the trash!!

Last year on Mothers Day (MD), I surprised my mom with a visit from Cali. I flew in on Saturday night and showed up to her church on Sunday morning. The entire soprano section was also in tears as I walked up and gave her a kiss. We the day followed with the traditional MD meal and laughs. We took pictures in front of the roses. I knew right there and then that as good as it was to surprise mums, nothing would beat being around her 24/7. I am a momma’s boy at heart and I was coming home!!

My decision to move back to Fl from Cali was met with some resistance. My roommate at the time felt that I was throwing away a good life I had started. True. Some of my friends did not understand why I would leave Northen California when it was a place that I loved so much. Also True. Even my own mom was skeptical when she came out to visit. She was shocked to realize that a good job, great friends, awesome church, and unbelievable weather could all be in one place, and that I was walking away from all this. Even she asked why?? The answer is the same as it has always been…”You only get one mother!!”

Before my father passed away, we talked about a few things in life he would’ve liked to see me do. On top of telling me how much he loved me, he also told me in specific words to look after my mother. After his passing I knew exactly how James felt at the cross when Jesus charged him to look after Mary. I have always felt that it was my responsibility for her well being even though it is still her who takes care of me some times.

My mom is very important to me and I so thankful to have her. On any given day she can cause me to pull my hair out or run face first into a wall, but I still cherish her with an undying passion. I do not have an Oedipus Complex by any means, but I do look to date women who have that same loving, caring, and nuturing characteristics that my mom possesses. As I am getting older and become a much more mature adult, I am beginning to understand all the sacrifices my parents made for me. It is an awesome feeling to be able to return some of that love.

In the Jamaican culture, parents never ever go to nursing homes. The reasons for this vary from expense to basic principles. From a young child I was always taught a saying that goes ”once a parent, twice a child”. This falls in correlation with the riddle from the Sphinx that Oedipus solved. It is a basic understanding that all people will go through a phase in their life when they will gain and lose their independence as adults. My mom is far from these days, but I did not only want to take care of her when I had too, I wanted to make some great memories as an adult to take with me when she is gone. The seasons of ones life may change but the love will always remain the same. Every rose I smell takes me to our garden, one day I know that scent will be nevermore.

“God gave us our memories so that we might have roses in December.”-J. M. Barrie

You Got Served!!

2006-05-14T00:02:00.000-04:00

Tonight I went out to dinner with my mums for a pre-mothers day dinner. The rest of my family will be going out tomorrow, so this was a “date” for her and I. We went to the Olive Garden(OG) by our house. Not a good idea.

If you have never worked in the restaurant, it is an ugly business that I think everyone should have to experience at least once. The truth is that you would not eat half the food you order if you knew how it got to you. At best, the back of the house staff in most medium grade restaurants operates on a 7th grade level. I used to work at the OG we visited tonight and was cautious about going, but my mom loves it there…argh!! I personally prefer going to restaurants where I have never worked, that way I don’t have to think about what I know to be going on behind those swiveling doors. To the credit of OG, they have some great company standards and the managers are always persistent about getting the food out fresh and presentable!! This is only the back of the house, the food must get to you by the hands of a server.

For those of you who have served before, you know the stereotypes associated with certain people. A few months ago I had this conversation with some former servers, I would not consider them racist, but they confirmed the “Denny’s” treatment of African-Americans. Whenever I go out I always feel the responsibility to compensate for this by making servers reconsider their preconceived notions about my people. Seeing that the current wait staff was 9yrs removed from my time, I figured that a new generation would put to bed old ideals. Not so.

Upon our seating I looked at my watch, A little after 7:15. We were sitting in a two-server section. This means that the two servers split the section by alternating tables. A couple minutes after we were sat, a party of five was sat in our section. I observed the servers as they rushed back to the service area to decide who would take the party and who would take the take the us. At 7:23 the party of five was making drink orders and we still haven’t been acknowledged by the wait staff. My mom sensed my anguish, and told me to be patient. I knew better, a 5 top meant at least a $20 - $30 tip, while our table probably meant the bare minimum. At 7:28 as the 5 top was getting their drinks and meals ordered, I told my mom that I was counting down from 30 seconds before we walked out. As I began counting our server waddled over. I have to give credit to my mom who kept a smile throughout the whole process. She was really oblivious to my knowledge of the restaurant “code” and just wanted to get some breadsticks!! I relented my sour attitude and tried to enjoy the evening.

Strike two came when we ordered. I was a decent server, I had enough know how to make simple conversation with my patrons and strike up a good conversation. The one thing you want to make sure you do is to not only get the order right, but make sure it is in the right order. The OG makes sure their servers know not to put in a food order until soups and salsds have been delivered…I think our server was missed that tidbit. Our food arrived a minute after our meal along with our appetizer. Great, it will be a buffet!! Good thing she did not forget my Chianti…oh wait she did!!
To the credit of OG, the food was amazing. I am a fan of the Chicken Marsala w/ Fett Alfredo. The food made up for all of our server’s shortcomings. More importantly, my date was going great as we kept each other laughing about the silly things only a family knows. My mom can be a riot at times and I just enjoyed being around her more and more these days.

Which came first the chicken or the egg?? As the server dropped off the check I glanced at it thinking of what to do? If I tip well, I am “breaking the cycle”??? If I leave the percentage the service deserved, I am only reinforcing old stereotypes. I normally am a 20% tipper so I decided to leave a 14% tip. I even broke out my cell phone calculator for this one. My hope is that my server is and was as oblivious to this melodrama playing out in my mind as my mom was… and these bad ideals from generations pass can be put retired. My mom smiled as I paid and we both left satisfied. She had dinner with her baby boy, and I got to serve our server!

Scream!!!

2006-05-10T23:54:00.000-04:00

I am a Michael Jackson fan. Don’t get me wrong, I think he is a sick perv, but the man could possibly be one the greatest entertainers of all times. It is sad that such beautiful music is tainted by his post stardom actions. I was watching the coverage of Dubya on the news. That combined with all the junk in the evening news made me think of the song “Scream” Now I have always been infatuated with janet from the “Good Times” days, but the this collaboration was lyrically as good as it was on the dance floor.

I clipped these lyrics that made me think…Was MJ a profit???? Hardly, but I am feelin everyword being sung!!

michael)
Tired of injustice
Tired of the schemes
The lies are disgusting
So what does it mean
Kicking me down
I got to get up
As jacked as it sounds
The whole system sucks

(janet)
Peek in the shadow
Come into the light
You tell me i'm wrong
Then you better prove you're right
You're sellin' out souls but
I care about mine
I've got to get stronger
And i won't give up the fight
(michael)
With such confusions don't it make you wanna scream
Your bash abusin' victimize within the scheme
(janet)
You try to cope with every lie they scrutinize
(both)
Somebody please have mercy
'cause i just can't take it

-TRUE!!!

So Now You Know!!

2006-05-09T13:33:00.000-04:00

So Now You Know!!

My 3yr old nephew Joshua came to me with a confession. While playing with my old G.I. Joe, a few of them broke in half. His face was so very apologetic…I couldn’t get mad. I told him that it would be okay and just to be careful next time. My G.I. Joe collection used to be a hot button issue in my house. This collection includes many original issue figurines and vehicles. From age 6 until I discovered girls…(13 not 20), my undying passion was the collection of as many Joes as possible. This collection grew to mammoth proportions to a total number of over 300 articles. My brother Wesley simultaneously collected his famed Transformers. His numbers closely match mine as he was also a fanatic.

My brother got a car and discovered girls when I was in 5th grade. He left his trusted collection in my loyal hands. I guarded Optimus Prime more than I guarded my loins!! Together with my new transformer and GI Joe collections, I had enough toys to last an entire year. But….just as any kid…I wanted more!! With a room full of toys my parents were hardly convinced that I needed to purchase any more toys…”but I gotta get the new Duke”…my mom was not haven it. I needed a new strategy. Enter: Robert S*

Robert S*(Rob) was that kid in school. The kid that you always knew would be servin 5 to 10 for something. His list of attributes include; bully, heart throb, liar, trouble maker, etc…. I was only interested in most indulging quality…”Five Finger Discount Champ” Rob had a knack for going into stores, removing the Joes from their packaging, and walking out with them. He would show up to school the next day with three of four newly obtained contraband. Rob was also a savvy businessman. He would unload his product for 1 or 2 bucks depending on the rarity and demand. Special request might garner a higher price, but they were always cheaper than the purchase price and who could beat the service?? Also as a perk, being a “client” of Rob’s also garnered his protection from other bullies!! This was a win win situation. I wasn’t buying stolen goods, I was protecting my own ass’sets!! (I am still convinced of this!!)

My collection doubled from a 100 or so to over 200+. Rob and I became daily associates. My allowance became my drug money, and GI Joes were my crack, and Rob was my pusher. Like any junkie I could not wait to go to school, foaming at the mouth when I would see him. If he shrugged his shoulders with nothing to offer, I would get depressed. Some days I would even buy double characters just for a fix…I knew I could trade them with the kids at my church who were all impressed with my growing collection. This was a business too.

Rob got caught. A panic rushed through my class as we were all connected in his trafficking. Rob was a true thug and never ratted us out. We were all safe as he was just smacked on the hand by Babylon. Sure enough a month later he was back to his small time dealings. I slowly weaned myself off of of this habit and until the end of the year. In sixth grade I discovered the fairer sex and lost my obsession with the collection.

Growing up as a “God Fearing Christian” I felt a bit of guilt about everything at the time. I knew that stealing was wrong, but I wasn’t stealing so that made it okay… right?? No. How often do we as humans try to justify doing something wrong by circumventing it through another person? How could I now get mad at Joshua for breaking something that should not have been mine in the first place?? Karma is a funny thing. Sure enough that each time I would return from college my mom would have given more and more of my Joes away. Slowly but surely a once abundant collection has been dwindled down to less than 100 items, most of which are broken or beyond resale value. Through it all, I have learned a valuable lesson….So now I know!!!
“And Knowing Is Half The Battle”

Ronaldinho.....Nuff Said!!!

2006-05-08T18:34:00.000-04:00

A couple of years ago I was in London visiting my oldest brother. We began talking about sports as most guys do. I was fascinated by his seemed to be expert knowledge of soccer (or football for you purest). He began to tell me about a player known as “Ronaldinho”. His excitement sparked my interest and I loosely followed the progress of this player and his favorite team, the London Arsenal.

As Americans, we take to sports heroes and often create legends around them. When one player excels in a sport, we tend to exalt them in a way that creates a legend before the ink dries. The names like Jordan, Elway, Ruth Gretsky, Woods, Ruth, etc… all carry a tremendous amount of respect for their respective sport. Internationally this also happens, but very few stars are able to crossover to this extreme as in the world of soccer. Ronaldinho is this player. He is not the over hyped mega star like David Beckham, Ronaldinho is the real thing. If Neo (from the Matrix) played soccer, he would take lessons from Ronaldinho!!

This sport is played in every corner of the world with as much or even more passion than any other. Recent world cup ads ran and stated that “Wars would stop for this event.” I hope so. The world should stop to watch Ronaldinho play. He is a truly gifted individual.

On Wednesday, May 17th two powerhouse teams will meet for a match that will set the table and mood for the world cup. The London Arsenal will be playing Barcelona for the Champions League Cup. This may be one of the greatest soccer showcases the world has ever seen as two of the world premiere clubs will square off. Set your Tivo to record this match. You will need to watch some of these moves in slow motion to truly appreciate it. Ronaldinho will be playing for Barcelona and Thierry Henry will lead a star studded Arsenal team. These two will later represent there countries of Brazil and France in the World Cup, respectively. You owe it to yourself to watch this match and find out what all the hype is about.

Wedding Crushed Part Duex

2006-05-07T20:52:00.000-04:00

Part Duex
“Why I am no longer welcome in Jacksonville”

Sunday morning rang in with a knock at the door of house keeping! “Go Away!!” We stumbled around a bit and finally made our way out the door. We had to pick up gifts and and shirts for the wedding. I could not decided which shirt to wear with my fancy vest and tie set. Dirk and I went to Burlington to pick up a few items while Ed was getting a haircut, after that it was off to the wedding.

Upon arrival at the wedding it was our mission was evident. The reunification of a once mighty force of men who together could dominate the world….at least so we thought!! The reality was that it was going to be a very long night of jokes and nostalgia. My fellow crashers were Ed & Dirk. As we made our way through the church, we were all taking notes of the ladies present!! There was a ton of potential in the room that was for sure.

(This is a tender section for the ladies)
The ceremony was great. Watching one of your friends get married is such an inspiring event. This is the 3rd “Crew wedding” I have attended and each one almost draws me to tears. I am so proud to have these guys as friends and being there to share that moment with them is truly a blessing. All of my friends have married girls who I think the world of. Amy has become a friend who I look forward to getting to know. People like her just don’t come about too often, I am happy for Lou to find someone so great!!
(Back to the juicy details)

We arrived at the reception hall shortly after the wedding. It was only about a mile or so from the hotel and wedding site. The DJ encouraged us to take advantage of the snacks. He did not need to point out the “open bar.” In traditional fashion we began our assault on the bar. Lou had told us the week prior that he wanted this to be a time to remember. I wish I could have kept up my side of the bargain.

Ed, Dirk, & I were assigned to Table 16. Behind me were Chris & Eleana, Matt & Ana, and Jurgen & Kelly. The whole crew was together. Lou had also put his three lovely (female) cousins at our table…(Thanks Lou!!) This made for some interesting conversation for the three eager eligible bachelors at the table trust me!!

The first couple hours went by uneventful. The meal was great and drinks kept flowing. The traditional items such as dances, wedding tosses, and cake eating went on. While these items carried on, our level of sobriety quickly departed. Being around my friends was so great. Matt, Chris, & Jurgen represent such a special part of my childhood. The great aspect about our friendships is that time has stood still for us. Though we have been friends for almost 17yrs…We are still the same kids playing video games at Nick’s house. Like a fine wine, our friendship only gets better with age. Needless to say, a few “I Love You Guys” were uttered throughout the night!!

I am a dancing machine. The prior night’s escapades were only a teasers for the moves I would breakout on the dance floor. Once again I could not help it, Ed just shook his said as he knew that it would be only a metter of minutes before I was making a fool of myself!! Right on cue, I started making the rounds, fortunately I was not the only one. We were all three sheets to the wind and not looking back. We had set sail to familiar grounds. Salsa, Swing, Hip Hop, Reggae, Reggaeton, …I danced to them all. As always getting much love and attention from the ladies I had my fair shair of dance partners. I am not sure who grabbed my camera, but some of these moments were captured. Some photos I have deleted, btu some are too funny to let go.

We went outside to take a group picture. I am always big on making sure that these moments have stills of taken for future meetings. As we stepped outside the daylight provided an unfriendly reminder that time it was still early. It was barely after 7pm and we were all blasted. Trying to organize 10 people for a photo proved to be a difficult task. Once one group was rounded up, someone had to run to the bathroom. We finally got a group shot taken. Looking back on the pic, it seemed like it was just out of an episode of friends….(although their were no brothas on friends, you get the idea!!)

After this point things begin to get a little cloudy…I remember finding out that the ladies at our table were all legal…but barely….I remember finding out that everyone was hitting on Lou’s sister, and I was being a bit overprotective….and somehow, we all got into a muffin fight back at the hotel…conversations with more ladies…& Sometime after that, all of the night fades to black.
The morning after was not fun. As I awoke we found Dirk in the bathroom hugging the toilet. Ed was fine but just shaking his head at me…Sorry!! We started unpacking and I ran into Amy in the hallway. I guess our little muffin fight turned into a disater that required an extra tip for the service crew…oops!! On my way down into the car I ran into a couple guys from the wedding party who were a little upset at my “Playa Hate’n” ways…Sorry fellas but not on my watch!!! The hotel staff also showed the same distain to my antics the prior night…Oh well. It is fair to say that I am probably no longer welcome in the city of Jacksonville for some time. I wish I could have gone back in time but you only get one chance at life. I was happy no one got hurt and we all had the time of our lives…So thanks to Lou for facilitating a wonderful weekend and giving us yet another reason to party!!

Giddy Up!!

2006-05-07T01:13:00.000-04:00

The Kentucky Derby is supposed to be the super bowl of horse racing. To me it is a reminder that God has a sense of humor.

Growing up my fascination with horses ended when a pony stepped on my foot at the age of 5. I kept my distance from them since that point. A friend in College was an equestrian rider. She took to me riding one day and got over my fears. Horses are remarkable animals. They are like giant dogs always starving for our attention. Our ability to domesticate them as animals has been essential to our history. What would story of Paul Revere if he had rode a camel??

I used to live in San Mateo, CA, which is 20 miles south of San Fran. About a mile from my apartment was a horse track called Bay Meadows. I have always wanted to see a horse race, so one weekend some friends and I decided to go. I had no idea what I was doing. I lost every bet for a total of $20. (I really broke the house) Horse betting can be a tricky thing. We had a great day just hanging out in and around the track though. My favorite part of the event was to go down and check out the horses before the race. Getting up close and personal with these majestic animals gives you a better understanding of who they are. My appreciation for the sport rose immediately and I went back a few times.

A friend came out to visit and my roommate and I took him to the track. Again I was in awe to see these four-legged gladiators take to the track. As I strolled through the gallery of horses, I picked my pony!! I was sure as anything that this horse was going to be a winner. I scooted up to the window and placed my two dollar bet. I can’t recall the odds, but it was around 12 – 1 or something. A nice $25 payday would have made up for the previous shortcomings of wagers past. With ticket in-hand, I headed over to our box. With a sound of the trumpet and shot of a gun they were off. The thunder from a horse track is nothing like that of a Nascar car event, but it is still exhilarating. As the horses made their way around the track my eyes began to sparkle as my horse edged to the front. With a photo finish he crossed the line in first place!!! Finally, victory was mine!!!

I walked up to the counter to cash in on my winnings. The payout would be enough to bring me back a couple more times I was sure. I don’t really enjoy gambling. I do it for the fun and do not put too much stock in my bets. Truth be told, I am a horrible gambler because I just don’t have that zest for cash as some people do. Handing my ticket over the cashier I noticed his odd look did not match my Kool-Aid grin.

“This race has not been run yet” He said
“Uh, no I bought this from you ten minutes ago” I replied.
“Sorry sir, but this is for a later race at another track, did you tell me for the race at Bay Meadows”
“Why else would I be here!!”
“Sorry, the best we can do is a refund”

My once proud prance had turned into a slow limp back to our box. My friends were amused by my ever-steady streak of bad luck. At this point I was convinced through and through:
God has a sense of humor…. and I am the butt of every joke!!

Give Earl Thanks

2006-05-05T00:19:00.000-04:00

Thanks Earl!!

I love the game of golf. A couple years ago I would play 4 –5 times per week. With all that practice, I should be able to hit the ball well?? I am a terrible golfer! It is fair to say that I am the worst golfer on this side of the Mississippi. If I can make it through an entire round without losing 10 or more balls I feel like I should get a green jacket. One time I took a swing and the ball went behind me. The 8yr old kids watching began to chuckle. It was okay though, I was apart of the revolution.

A long long time ago I used to think that golf was only for white people. I grew up watching the game every now and then, but saw it as only a game for Caucasians, how archaic. My only care for golf was watching Bill Murray try to blow up the gopher in “Caddyshack.” I remember a kid down the street from us who would always go and play golf with his dad. We had a single golf club at our house, for some reason, that I used to hit balls every now and then. Until I graduated high school I still believed that golf had no room for a black man. Then the Tiger revolution began.

In 1996 Tiger Woods exploded onto the golf scene. He attracted new sponsors but more importantly he showed that the game could and should be played by anyone. Jackie Robinson did the same a few generations ago for baseball. Was Tiger the first black golfer? No, but, he was the first to cross the lines with such substance that it made it impossible to ignore? Absolutely. Woods’ impact on golf will be felt for generations and possibly centuries to come. Just as a baseball field now if filled with players from all over the world, the golf spectrum will also spread across cultural lines that have existed for hundreds of years.

Woods is a product of a interracial marriage which is even more of a credit to who he is and what he represents. Woods is a renaissance man. He is by far the most dominant athlete in his sport right now. Off the court he is also a savvy businessman who charmed the world with his infectious smile and intense fist pumps. His wife is also super uber hot!! Really hot!! He is the envy of every man. Tiger has transcended the game of golf to a prime time sport. What was once a sport for the aristocracy of this country has now become a cultural phenomenon.
I wish I started playing as kid just as Tiger did with his dad Earl. The videos of them playing golf as Tiger was just able to walk is amazing. The vision of the father has now become a reality for the son. It is remarkable to think his father saw his son’s potential as just a child. It is unfortunate that Woods the senior will never get the opportunity to understand the impact that he has had on the world as much as his son. Tiger gives credit to his father for everything he is. What a lasting tribute to a man who the world may never know but only through Tiger his son. This is a metaphor in so many ways.

NBA....&.Random Thoughts

2006-05-02T22:46:00.000-04:00

I love this game!!

I am watching th NBA Playoffs right now. I am a Shaq fan. Most people think he is a huge waste of space. I you have ever played basketball; you understand how much of an amazing athlete he is. I also love watching Dwayne Wade. He is amazing with and without the ball. The NBA is the best it has ever been and I have been watching my entire life. Most people would argue and tell you the Michael Jordan days were the best, but you need true parity for the games to be exciting. This year it is wide open and the champs could come from anywhere….

Got a few job offers today, when it rains it pours. I am not sure if I should take them, or hold out for something better. I also really wanted to go to London again for a few weeks, but that may not happen for a while now. I am still pondering my options as I have a little bit of flexibility. I should have a true update by the end of the week.

I am going back to school in the fall. I will be working on a psych degree and then going to grad school for counseling. It should only take a year or so, but time will tell. I am excited about being a student again. My moms is even happier.

I am still collecting stories from the last night of the wedding….Sorry my memory is a little shot!! Part two should be coming after I find out the truth of what happened!!

Getting ready to move out in a few weeks. I am still going to help out as a nanny, but my duties will be greatly reduced. Went swimming with the kiddies today!! Last week was the first time I have been swimming in our pool in at least 15yrs!! Wow that water was cold!!

If you have never heard of Craigslist.org, you are missing out on one of the webs best secrets!!

So to recap!!

Go Heat!!
Still looking for a jobby job!!
Mmmmnnnn….Co-eds!!
Two days later I am still a little cloudy!!
Looking for a Condo in downtown Orlando!!
Craigslist Rules!!

Wedding Crushed - Part 1

2006-05-01T22:08:00.000-04:00

Wedding Crushed
Part I

Everybody loves a wedding. Lou and Amy have been together for ever. The wedding was just a reason to party. And party we did.

The day started horribly. I had to pick up Ed in Orlando early because of a funeral I was attending. The lady who passed away was a family friend from my mom's church. She was a true saint. She spent 25 yrs as a missionary in Africa with her husband. She just returned to Florida a couple of years ago. In November she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Her family gave her a wonderful tribute and there was not a dry eye in the building. Her lifeÂs testimony is something legendary. Although I only met her in passing, I was inspired by the life she lived.

After the funeral I shot home to get packed. I had to grab a haircut also. If you are ever in Deltona, never never never NEVER, go to Keith Barber's. In Jamaica, the barbers are very classy and can really cut. I am new around here so this was a crap shoot. The guy who cut my hair had to be the worse barber I have ever been too. In the middle of cutting my hair, (which took almost an hour) he ran outside to try and wave down a girl pumping gas across the street. This mixed with the fact that he was focused more on the NFL draft than my hair silently irritated me. The last half an hour in the chair I just sat quietly and waited for him to be done. Tip....Yeah right.

After being butchered, I picked up Dirk & Ed and we were off. Jacksonville was about a two hour ride away and I had been delegated to do the driving this time. Ed is a massive size man and Dirk is no small fry either. Taking Dirk's Tiburon or Ed's truck was out of the question. We were all staying in the same room anyway so it was a fun road trip. Once we got checked into the Downtown Wyndham, we set off to the rehearsal dinner. Even though none of us were in the wedding, Lou invited us because we are all like family. Jurgen (Dirk's brother) represented "The Crew" in the wedding. We were all very close in high school and have remained very close to this day. Lou could not have us al in the wedding so Jurgen was selectedelegate delagate. This was awesome for me as I could just sit back and enjoy. The dinner was great. Mazziano's is a awesome eatery. We also were given 3 drink tickets which we took full advantage of. This was the beginning of a very long night.

After dinner we returned to the hotel. We all started pounding on the booze Lou passed out as gifts to the wedding party. In Lou's room Jurgen got lit up. This was not as bad as his "I am a Rhino" episode, but he was very entertaining to watch. Lou kicked us out 11 and we headed over to the bar were he and Amy work. There the drinks kept coming. I started slow, as I tried to pace myself. Didn't happen. Ed is a bartender also and started ordering shots all around. A couple of toast later and I was toasted.

There was a band playing who was something like "Tenacious D". They played really well and were also funny. Being the only black guy in the bar made me feel a little uncomfortable at first because I hate feeling isolated. Normally when I go out I like to go places that have a good mix. This place was cool though, so I quickly blended in to the scene. The band started to play so me hip hop and reggae. I am a sucker for music and everytime I say that I am not going to dance...I end up an the floor. Jurgen also tries to get the latest dance moves from me every time we go out. We became dancing fools. As always the ladies showed a brotha some love on the dance for as well. The night was going great. Seeing my friends again was awesome. Between dinner, drinks and dancing, we all had a blast. Kelly and Eleana (Jurgen & Chris's wives) were also there. They were also having a good time as the boyz began behaving badly. It is such a great thing to have the people you grew up with as close friends. We are all such kids once we get out. I can't imagine growing up any other way. A moments like this, are the entire reason I moved back home. As the night progressed, I found myself very glad not to be driving home. I was smashed.

For some reason, I started making more and more eye contact with the band. I saw the mic and knew it was calling. As last call for drinks was made, the band asked for request. I took leap of faith."Redemption Song" I shouted. He nodded and agreed if I returned with a shot."No Problem" A shot of Patron and the haunting intro was being strummed. This is by far one of my favorite songs of all time. For some reason I inched closer and closer the mic. I was music major in college and have a decent voice, but I am no Bob Marley. With enough liquid courage, I slid over to the mic and began to belt it out. My friends began to laugh and chuckle as the "Ol Oliver" was back on stage!! The band began to laugh also as I mixed up a few words here and there. I am a bad Jamaican!!

After my rendition, it was time to go. We all were done and it was closing time. We scooted over to the hotel and with the wedding party, made some night moves!! Dirk and Derrick made friends with some very nice bridesmaids and the wedding crash was on!! As for me I retired to the room. My experience tells me that I am too old to be getting crazy the night before a wedding, I decided to chill. This was just the beginning of long weekend, I needed to pace myself. Didn't happen.

Showin Ed some loves!!!

Olfactory Removal

2006-04-28T02:47:00.000-04:00

Nostalgia…..Rulz….&….Bites

Nostalgia is truly a double-edged sword. With every smile it brings, it can also bring a tear. Tonight I hung out with one of my good friends Ed. Ed is huge. He is 6’8 and tons of fun. He is also a bartender in downtown Orlando, so he is very well connected. I spoke with him earlier in the day and we decided to get together. I had not really hug out with him since I got back in December.

Being a friend of a bartender has its perks, let me tell you. Ed gets much love from all the local ladies and the bartenders….SWEET!!! I wish I was still a lush because we did not have to pay for anything tonight. In my younger days, I would be sleeping on someone couch instead of typing at 2am…I kept it lo-key and had a beer & a red bull… to keep me awake.

Ed is a dear friend from high school. Just being around him makes me glad that I moved back home. I always envisioned myself being around the people I grew up with. In Cali I never felt as close to the people as I do in Fl. The people here just know me inside and out. Ed and I discussed the upcoming wedding for are friend Lou this weekend and the drunken debauchery that will follow with the old crew. A good portion of my high school click the “Mail Men” will be in attendance as one of our founding fathers is being tied in holy matrimony. Ed and I joked about funny stories of the past and how many drinks it would take before they all came out!! This was good nostalgia.

As we bar hopped around downtown, I was amazed at Ed’s treatment. He was not “rockstar” status, but he has the “Norm” from cheers appeal. Before he would sit down, a cold bud light would be waiting for him. Each of the 4 places we visited tonight had some form of live music playing. The last two places had guys with guitars playing solo covers. Downtown Orlando is not 6th street Austin…but it has it’s moments.

In the movie “Someone Like You”, Ashley Judd plays a jaded ex who goes through extremes in order to get over a former boyfriend. In one scene she goes to a doctor to have a gland (olfactory) in her nose removed just to avoid smelling the cologne of her ex. The sent drove her crazy and made the hurt worse. Ashley, I’m feelin you!! (btw, I love AJ…any woman that passionate about college basketball is a hottie in my book)
I do not want to get my olfactory removed, but maybe my eardrums. The most important sense to me is hearing. It is so important that I am able to listen to music that I wonder what would happen if I ever went deaf. As I child I would often get horrible ear aches/infections and be unable sleep until the wax was drained out. As I got older my hearing got tremendously better and I able to establish what is called “relative pitch”. (A music thing that can be important for band nerds like me!!) As I listen to music, certain chord progressions or key changes can instantly remind me of an overture once played. This can be an awesome gift as music is one of my greatest passions. This can also be a tremendous burden as tonight in the last two bars, songs were played that reminded me of a former girlfriend. Instantly I became silent and withdrawn from the world around me. Even though the relationships is now over, my overall feelings were taken back to a time when I was extremely happy…that consequently made me sad…go figure!! Although I am to blame for my current situation, which almost makes it worse, I tried to find the silver lining in this cloud… I do know this, for every unhappy memory; there is a wonderful one that brightens my day. Though the pain of lost love sting lingers, the fulfillment of true passion I once attained can be a soothing symphony.

Nostalgia can be such a paradox.

Smell these roses!!

2006-04-26T18:57:00.000-04:00

This is my nephew Joshua. He is very very cute. Joshua is taking advantage of the day. Oh to be a child. Shortly after this photo we began playing his favorite video game, Chicken Little. This was a big mistake. After ten minutes I could not watch him run around in circles anymore. I began to help him every now and then.

I left the room to clean up the kitchen and search for jobs online. Each time little Joshy would get stuck on Chicken Little, I would hear: “uncle…..Uncle UNCle…UNCLE….”
“Yes, Josh”
“I need help”
“Alright…”
I could not resist the ever increase calls from a desperate 3yr old who’s sole existence rested on his completion of the next level.

Joshua now knew that a constant call would render him my services. I was fine with this as an old video game junkie, I knew how frustrating it could be not to beat a level.. Unfortunately a case of very very bad timing was on the horizon. As I was calling back a company that had contacted me the day prior, Joshua began the chant. At first I did not want to hear it. I had just started leaving a message on the VP of the company’s voicemail when I heard “uncle uncle…if you just ignore him, it will all go away. (Yeah Right) Just as I beginning to close message, my very very cute nephew was screaming….UNCLE…UNCLE…UNCLE….I NEED HELP!!!

I don’t think I am getting a call back tomorrow!!

Rasta Vibes I

2006-04-26T01:31:00.000-04:00

Part I.

Immigratoin & Freedom

"The preservation of peace and the guaranteeing of man's basic freedoms and rights require courage and eternal vigilance, that the least transgression of international morality shall not go undetected and un-remedied. These lessons must be learned anew by each succeeding generation, and that generation is fortunate indeed which learns from other than its own bitter experience.”

Haile Selassie I
“Speech to the United Nations” New York City, NY October 4, 1963

Our forefathers would have been proud to know that this speech took place in New York City. (Although it would have been called New Amsterdam.) At the time this speech was made, the world was a much different place than it is now, yet many of these problems still exist. This speech given by Haile Selassie I was the basis for a Bob Marley song called “War”.

The word freedom has tremendous depth. It is almost always accompanied with the blood of those to secure it. In our country we have been blessed to have so many freedoms we often take for granted. The ability to post a blog without too much interference or fear is a wonderful thing. (for those who are reading this due to the Patriot Act, I Love America, don’t worry!!) I have a great deal of respect for those who have fought to ensure that our freedoms are secured. From the Declaration of Independence to the “I Have a Dream” speech, we have been a nation who has struggled to ensure our freedoms, yet the struggle continues. As a country, we have been bestowed with the ability to grant others theirs. That makes me proud to be an American.

As a person of Jamaican heritage and a son of two immigrants, I am very nervous about our current immigration situation. The law is the law. Those who break it should not be rewarded, they should be punished by a fair & righteous justice system. If I stole a hybrid(lets say a Lexus 400h…I want ride in style!!), I could not claim that I was trying to protect the environment, but did not have the money!!! The initial act was wrong. Bottomline!! Under no circumstances should the law be violated. Yet we must examine the environment put into place that created situation. I will come back to this example.

Currently our illegal immigration situation is a very complex problem. Most immigrants simply want the freedoms that you and I enjoy. Since they have never truly been given this opportunity by our government, they have taken it, by force. This is unfortunate. What could easily be accomplished 40yrs ago is almost impossible. (Unless you are from a select group of countries.) For this last statement I turn to the Declaration of independence.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

…..Or unless you are from a country south of our border…then you are less than equal. A few weeks ago the statement was made by some in Washington, saying, “ These people do the jobs most Americans don’t want to do”…Profound. Hearing this, I could not believe what was being said. Immigrants were being touted as a second-class citizen openly and effectively in order to pass legislation. This was very disheartening as many good people were instantly sub-graded in status as human beings. Did our forefathers mean all men, or just the ones from countries we like? What happened to the unalienable rights given to us by the creator?? What happened to their pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness?

Marley sang these lyrics in the song “War”. These lyrics are a direct quote form the Selassie speech. Until the philosophy which holds one raceSuperior and another inferiorIs finally and permanently discredited and abandonedEverywhere is war, me say war That until there is no longer first classAnd second class citizens of any nationUntil the colour of a man's skinIs of no more significance than the colour of his eyesMe say war That until the basic human rights are equally Guaranteed to all, without regard to raceDis a war That until that dayThe dream of lasting peace, world citizenshipRule of international moralityWill remain in but a fleeting illusionTo be pursued, but never attainedNow everywhere is war, war

Surely we do not want a war, but this could what is going on across this great nation of ours. Right now citizens are patrolling the border, armed and ready to dispatch of any person crossing the border. A wall is planned on being constructed. But only one border of our nation? Are we creating another East Berlin? War is never the answer. How can we avoid this?

Long before our current immigration policy was created people from all over the world immigrated to places like Ellis and Angel Islands. The statue of Liberty stood as a beacon of hope. The Golden Gate Bridge were arms that welcomed all new comers to the shores of their American Dream. Today the most historic neighborhoods have the name of Chinatown or Little Italy. As I discussed the immigration situation with my mom, she described the early times when she first came to this country. She and my dad worked very hard to provide a comfortable life for my family. I highlighted the words worked very hard because that is exactly what our current immigrants are doing. Working very hard.

Living in California, I saw the immigration population first hand. Working in the apartment industry, a good portion of the work force tended to be immigrants. Even worse was the assumption that the companies we contracted for knew about it and this was a great way to cut cost. Uh oh….who’s breaking the law now. The ugly truth is that America has created an environment were the illegal immigrant could survive. For every person who has ever had a illegal immigrant work for them, the blame is on you. Now it is not just me who has stolen the car….we got all of corporate America going to the slammer too!!!

What a mess we have…How do we solve this?? What about the freedoms we hold so dearly?? To complete my analogy I will resolve it like this.

In order to obtain a hybrid and ultimately better the environment around me, it would be more conducive for the carmakers to reduce their profit margin making the high more cost effective. Ultimately this will have an impact as the grater good will be served in the face of pending energy crisis….How does this translate!! The government needs to make and effective immigration policy making it conducive for an immigrant to successfully and legal obtain citizenship if so desired. This will take a sacrifice on the part of the government and also corporate America but it will serve the greater good. In Selassie’s speech, he states:

“guaranteeing of man's basic freedoms and rights require courage and eternal vigilance”. He continues to say: “These lessons must be learned anew by each succeeding generation, and that generation is fortunate indeed which learns from other than its own bitter experience.”

Today as Americans we stand faced with this challenge to ensure freedom in this country for all who seek it. This road will not be easy, but neither was the one that led to this countries emergence as a defender of these freedoms we now have the ability to bestow. This will take sacfrices on all sides, both mental and physical. In the end, if we are successful, our country will shine as “One nation under God, with Liberty and Justice for all”

I Said It!!

2006-04-24T23:27:00.000-04:00

I said it!!

I am a nanny right now. It is not a permanent thing, but I am just helping out my fam until the end of the school year. I am also looking for jobs, but I am in no hurry. My sister and her husband both work 40hr+ weeks. My mom normally watches the kids, but as she is getting older, I feel much more comfortable driving the kids around than having her do it. I wake up at 6am every morning to get the kiddies ready for school. I make lunches & dinner. I have even read a few bedtime stories. I am very domesticated, to say the least. My nephews are 8, 6, and 3. Isaac is the oldest and Joshua is the youngest. Nathan is the middle child. They all have energetic personalities that will leave you in stitches before too long. My mom spoils them as any good grandmother should and I have turned into quite the disciplinarian. Together we play a nice good cop/bad cop.

Today I did the unthinkable. Most days I try to be a cool uncle by taking the kids to the park, playing soccer, etc… just the stuff I wanted to do as a kid. (Truth is I am not that cool). My brother-in-law works nights and sleeps in the day. As the kids came home from school they were all wound up. Before they made there way upstairs I told them to keep it down. Isaac began his normal routine of questions about why it was necessary to stay downstairs. At the end of questioning I cracked like Jack Nicholson in “A Few Good Men”….I said it….

”BECAUSE I SAID SO ISAAC!!”

The single quote I despised as a youth has now unfortunately become apart of my repertoire. His face showed the same irritation I had as a child as I knew their was no getting pass that end all statement. I must admit, it silenced him and I was realeaved to be off of the witness stand, but the overall hypocritical feelings were beginning to set in. I decided to explain the situation to him. Right on cue, he shrugged his shoulders and went on playing with his toys.

Never say never!!

Pelican Bar!!

2006-04-21T03:23:00.000-04:00

The Pelican Bar

If this story read from the ending to the front it would not be as magical. I will let you know that the ending is just awesome to me, but you may find it otherwise. Still, this tale is worth sharing. Many people believe in God, some people don’t. I have a firm belief in God, that is my choice. Everyone in the world has the ability to make a choice. I am thankful for this ability to choose, because it makes the debate interesting and my faith stronger. I will let you know that at the end of this story you will have to make a choice of what to believe.

We pulled into Ruddy’s house in Kingston and the brakes were giving a swan song. The entire week prior, the brakes had been squealing but today the sound was unbearable. We were renting the car from Ruddy who is the brother of my brother in law Wayne. (That can get confusing… I know). We had driven half way around the island from Duncans to Kingston. The trip took over twelve hours to complete after a few stops at some “off the beaten path” sites. Stephie, my German navigator and a KU buddy, had set up this trip taking us to some amazing places on the island I have never even heard of. Kacia, another KU buddy, played DJ from my handy dandy PSP. Together we were a threesome carving up the island of Jamaica on a wicked 3 day tour. This was day two.

That night, as I explained the brake situation to Ruddy, we agreed to get it taken care of first thing in the morning in order not to fall too far off of our schedule. The brake shoes would take a couple of hours to replace and we would be on the road by 10am. We all agreed and headed to bed as it was a long day.

As the morning begun Ruddy and I headed out to a local auto shop to pick up the parts. This was the first obstacle. As we learned quickly, brake shoes can be a very quirky purchase. Needless to say, the auto parts shop did not have the part. Nor did any auto part shop in greater Kingston. As we departed the store, we noticed that the rear tire was flat. At this point I was like a Nascar pit crewmember, watching the clock. The tire was changed with a quickness that would make Jeff Gordon jealous. I realized that the 10 am departure would need to be pushed back an hour or two. As we went to the auto mechanic we left the car there. Ruddy’s wife came to pick us up as we searched Kingston for these rare brake shoes. This care was a Mazda, and very common. We ended going to the dealership(on the other side of Kingston) to buy the part. Along the way the mechanic let us know that the flat tire, “was actually punctured, and would need to be replaced. Oh yeah…. btw, as the another mechanic was taking off the brake shoes, he broke a bolt from the brake caliber, so that would need to be replaced also!!”

I looked down to my watch, the time was nearing 11am, and we still have not found brake shoes. I had to put in the call. To my surprise the ladies were very calm even if I wasn’t. I think Ruddy & Michelle picked up on my angst. I wanted to get on the road as soon as possible. Murphy’s law states what can go wrong, will go wrong. By 1pm, I was a believer. We had made arrangements to meet a friend who was going to let us have “Afternoon” passes to an all-inclusive 5 star hotel. We were pumped about this, and I did not want to miss this opportunity. With each passing moment, our window of enjoying this gift became smaller and smaller, I was not happy. Also along the way, we were planning to stop at a spot Stephie insisted on, called the “Pelican Bar.”

1:30pm. - Our three hour trek to Treasure Beach and the Pelican Bar was just getting started. We stopped to get some fresh fruit and snacks along the way for lunch. (Jamaica has the best pineapples hands down!!!) We got a chance to drive through parts of Jamaica that I have not seen since I was very young. Mandeville was the highlight of this road trip for me, as we used to live there when I was a child. Driving through Jamaica, the landscape transformed from rocky ocean to a lush mountain valley and back to white sand beaches with the snap of a finger. I narrated along the journey explaining all I knew about Jamaica and its history to my female passengers. As we arrived at Treasure Beach shortly after 4:30, we could not find the Pelican Bar. The lonely planet book said we would be able to see it from the beach. This was the only case where the book was wrong. After discussing this item with a local fisherman, who was also a former NYC fireman, we discovered that it was cheaper and better to catch a boat 15 miles up the road at Parotee Beach. The evening was quickly approaching. Stephie really wanted to go to this spot. I reluctantly agreed, as I knew we might miss our opportunity to collect on the resort passes. Fate would ultimately decide and we headed in the direction of Parotee.

Two days prior to this, Stephie had randomly met two German women, who were dining in a restaurant where we were also eating. They told her of an amazing bar, in the middle of the ocean. She had made her mind up that we were going too. I was hesitant at first, because I was not sure of the road, but we agreed to make it an adventure. As we parked on Parotee Beach, in the distance, we could see a hut in the water. I was in shock, as I could not even begin to fathom something like this. We all began to get very excited. I acquired a boatman in my best Jamaican accent, (the dialect is called “Patois”…and I am terrible at it!!) and we were on our way. A 10-minute boat ride, a mile out, and we were there.

It was just after 5:30 pm when we arrived at the Pelican Bar. The Pelican Bar is a bar/restaurant built on a sandbar a little less than a mile of the coast. Its position makes it interesting for it is surrounded on all sides by water. A large number of wooden stilts hold up the hut, which is the size of a large living room. To park the boat, the driver beaches it on the sandbar two feet below the water surface. I am 150% positive that this place would never(… in a million years) pass any kind of building code for construction, but that is what makes it so cool. The bar itself serves various Jamaican seafood dishes along with cold beverages. We all decided to have a drink and then we try to make it to the resort.

I decided to check out the exterior of the bar and walk around a bit. I have never been so far out in the ocean where I could just walk like I was in a kiddie pool. As I strolled along the outside of the bar, I thought that this would be a great photo op. I had Stephie take a picture of me from the bar in the water. As I walked back to the bar I saw a stingray swim by me. I freaked. I know they are not aggressive, but that is not something you see everyday. I did not mind the fish swimming about, but those rays just look so creepy in the water. I proceeded to grab my camera and go on a photo rampage, snapping shots of this very peaceful creature.

After my close encounter I made my way inside. It was just after 6pm and the sun was beginning to set. I am a fan of sunsets if you have read my previous postings. This was by far, the most amazing sunset I have seen in my life. I put my camera into overdrive and began snapping away. I took over 30 photos of this sunset. My partners were also in awe its beauty. At one moment I looked over and caught a glimpse of Stephie. I snapped a shot that I am in love with.

I mentioned before that I have a strong faith in God. As we returned to the beach, I was beside myself. The day that had started so unpredictably had turned into one of the most enchanting moments of my life. I was forced to ponder to the question, was this all in the greater plan? Was I meant to see this? For all the things that had gone wrong in the day, were those set into place by something beyond me…? I don’t know. But…I do believe in God. I believe he intercedes for us even if it is beyond on comprehension at the time. For me, that sunset was a serendipitous event that only the creator could manifest. This is my choice. This is my belief.

On the way to the resort I could not hold in my feelings. I discussed what had just occurred to the ladies. I knew putting that kind of statement out there could field not only resentment, but also open a can of worms that no one like the smell of. In a true melting pot fashion, Kacia agreed with me, and Stephie disagreed (“and two out of three ain’t bad…A wise man once said). Thinking back on it, I am glad that we all had our own opinions. That is the beauty of it. Some people will live their entire lives not believing and some will. The choice is the real beauty; we can choose to believe in something or not. I choose to believe.

To see the pictures click here!!

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/oliverrking/album?.dir=/f1ddre2&.src=ph&.tok=phV5wvEBV0WSvJ_1

King Kong

2006-04-19T23:39:00.000-04:00

In the latest version of King Kong, Peter Jackson does an amazing job as the director in recreating a well-known story. I pondered what made this movie so different than the others? Sure the stunning special effects and realistic environment made the story come alive more than ever before. Jackson used to made Kong seem much more “human” in this film than the previous directors. Kong had a personality we could all relate too. In the movie the gorilla laughs, cries, gets angry, and shows many more emotions that you and I posses in our everyday lives.

In the movie the one scene that made the viewer relate to Kong more than any other is when he is observing the sunset with Naomi Watts. She simultaneously begins to sign the word beautiful. They both watch the sun descend into the ocean. At this point both characters in the film are equal, they are both in awe of the natural beauty. At this point in the movie Kong has been transformed from a giant gorilla, to a creature with feelings and emotions similar to you and I. He begins to speak the universal languages of love and compassion. He becomes one of us.

Towards the end of the movie I found myself pulling for Kong even though the end was inevitable. It was easy to get wrapped up in the story when you know how it is going to end. As Kong began his ascension to the top of the of the building, I remember hearing some of audience member’s begin the sniffle. Throughout the movie, Jackson’s character development of Kong made him more than a gorilla, it made him human. With the final fall in the horizon, Kong was a friend and not a 1200-pound gorilla. As he fell, so did our vision of being connected to someone or something through that universal language. Kong stood for the simple things we want to hold so dear, love.

Right now I live in a mostly wooded area I do not get to enjoy the sunsets like I used to in the Bay Area. When I was in Jamaica I got a chance to see some of the most amazing sunsets I have ever experienced. As the sun set on my final evening I was faced with realization that my time in Jamaica was coming to an end. My mind pondered on all of the wonderful ones I had seen in the prior weeks. A sunset can be symbolic of so many things in ones life. For me it was the final one I would enjoy on Jacobs Beach. I wrote a prayer from a rock on the beach as the sun descended below the hills in the distance. My prayer was written for all beings to enjoy life as I do. I realized that most beings have not been endowed as we have. God has blessed us with the abilities to not only enjoy sunsets, but to write about them a week later and share that wonderful emotion with others. I am thankful for the ability to even write this story.

The picture here is of my final sunset in Jamaica. Like Kong, watching a sunset lets me feel a little more human. For that brief moment, I feel like I'm not so alone in the world knowing that someone, somewhere, is watching this also. With all the trappings of our lives, watching a sunset for the few moments in the evening reminds me that God made this day for you and me, we should make the most of it. We are all apart of his wonderful creation, we should all be enjoying this world to its fullest.

Spiritual Awareness

2006-04-19T00:40:00.000-04:00

As a child I was always happy go lucky. My third grade teacher used to call me smiley because I always had a smile on my face. As I got older my spirit/soul became disturbed by all the hatred and anger in the world. I remember when my parents would get into a fight and it affected me more than them. I wondered why someone who you loved would ever say or do something to hurt you. I would get so angry and want to run away at times. These days, one does not have to go far to have their spirit disturbed. It seems that the entire world is filled with negative energy. This can cause serious damage to ones spirit.

When I was in college I remember being exhausted after a football game. I was the drum major of the band and had everyone coming up to me all day and asking me questions. At the end of was physically exhausted but more so spiritually exhausted. I had given all of my spiritual energy to those around me. My director told me that I was important to the band because everyone fed off of my energy…I thought he was a little crazy until the first game. Then I understood. It was like nothing I had ever experienced before. That was the first time I recognized the fact that I am as much of a spiritual person as a physical one. I became aware of my own personal energy and how people and actions of others around me would affect it. I had always been sensitive as a child. Most people set up barriers around their spiritual body so they are never really hurt, but they also never let their spirit run free. I have always let my spirit lead me, if you are not areful, it can be ed astray by the wrong people.

I think understanding your true inner spirit is the first step to repairing it. We all are born with certain spiritual traits whether they are related to good things or bad. I have a very creative spirit along with a spirit of compassion for others. I also have a strong spirit of pride, which can be a good thing or bad thing depending on how it is used. Understanding your spiritual sides helps you understand why you react to certain items in your life differently than you would at other times. A person who has a spirit of truth within them, hates a liar…and vice versus.

I have a strong faith in God; I think you know that, I love the “footprints” poem. I have found it to be so true in so many things I do. When I was living in Cali, I had a job that drove my spirit into a dark place. My fun loving nature became dark and angry, I was yelling at friends and fighting with who ever I could. It ruined a relationship because I refused to trust people. All of this was because the negative energy that I was being force to accept at my job. So many facets can affect your spiritual body. Your friends, job, diet, exercise all play apart on not just your physical body, but your spirit and soul as well.

One night in Sacramento I lost it and began yelling at everyone outside of a bar. My tirade continued to a police officer and my friends who were with me. I ended getting out of a cab in the middle Sacramento and decided to walk around a city I have never been in my whole life. I had hit rock bottom. I had to make some changes. I got back to God because he really does offer us true healing, from the inside out. Later that year I went to Jamaica and had one of the most spiritual experiences in my life. I felt reborn as I swam in the ocean & basked in the rays from the sun. I could not believe that I had created so much stress in my life only to realize that the things of this world are only temporary. I realized that true happiness and joy comes from the inside out. All these things that I did as a kids, seemed so foreign to me as an adult. I new I had to return to that happy place one and for all.

I quit my job, apologized to my friends, and started putting myself in around positive people and situations. I cleansed my spirit by prayer and fasting. With a new clean spiritual slate, I began to keep up a “spiritual” diet in order to protect it from all unwanted attributes.
Keeping your spirit clean is important. It is like keeping your room or car clean. If you don’t do it, things pile up, and then the task seems too large before too long. The good news is that God gives us strength to move mountains, so surely we can do a little housekeeping within our soul.

Mr. Sandman

2006-04-18T21:50:00.000-04:00

Have you ever woken up from a dream and swore that it was real? Then only to find that in reality you did not score the game-wining touchdown but severely kicked your significant other sleeping next to you. (Then your next dream takes place comfortably from the couch!!) Dreams are an amazing aspect that we possess. A gift that we as human have been given from Jah. Dreams shape our everyday lives and has provided us the some of the most creative minds the world has known.

But what is a dream really? Psychiatrist say that dreams are a pathway to out sub-conscious mind, a gateway for us to tap into a realm that exist only within our brains. Just as dreams can be wonderful, they also can be terrifying in the form of nightmares. Nightmares serve as a balance, without them, we would not truly appreciate a dream that could be considered a fantasy.

As a child I would often get in trouble for day dreaming in class. I could not help it, I was fascinated by clouds and the world around me. I would often just stare off into the distance. Even today my mind has a tendency to wander when I am not focused on a specific task.

When I think of my own personal dreams and compare it those I see being lived out all around me, I filled with joy. I have been blessed in my life to see vision start from a dream and subsequently manifest themselves into reality.

When I was a 5th grade my brother became a drum major at Deltona High School. I got to tag along with him wherever he went. I became a band nerd from the first day they offered the class in middle school. My dream was to become a drum major in high school just like my big bro. In 9th grade I tried out for drum major. My brother drove down from the ‘University of Florida just to support me. As they announced the drum majors, my name was not on the list. My dream was crushed. With a few syllables my dream had quickly turned into a nightmare. I was very proud as a youth and still harbor some of those traits. Being humble is something I struggle with on a daily basis. On that day I was humbled greatly.

My sophomore year was another disappointment. I was lost in the shadows of my older siblings never truly gaining an identity. With my dream of being a drum major was almost lost. Yet with every whisper of it around the band room, my heart listened.
With a new school came a new opportunity. On the first day the audition sign up was posted, my name was on the list. I practiced day and night in preparation for the chance to chase a dream. My audition was flawless. My dream became reality.

Later I continued to dream and achieved the same success in college. I was a drum major for three years after suffering 2 defeats in tryouts. The Dream lived on. As I started unpacking last night, for some reason I found my old drum major hat from high school. My mom must have placed it in my room for some odd reason. It was faded tremendously, yet my memories of the dream fulfilled will never go dull.

With every victory in life there is a setback. For every dream achieved there are a thousand others that never make it to fruition. Yet some of us are scared to dream. We are blessed with this great gift just as much as it is a curse in the form of a nightmare. We should never fear the latter though. With each dream we are given an opportunity to make it come into reality, good or bad. We only get one shot at life; it would be costly not to take stock in our dreams. Our return on a dream realized is worth more than diamonds. Living in a dream world is a perfect place for me. It keeps me going.

Our fears are our nightmares. Success is driven by our dreams.

Every night before you sleep, pray for sweet dreams.

Sleep Well,

O

A Jamaican Hike

2006-04-18T13:32:00.000-04:00

As the scavengers circled above, I knew I was in trouble. Surely they were not coming for me, yet I was the only thing half alive insight. The story could not end this way. I decided to press onward, I had come this far and I knew that this would end with victory or death. I was committed.

Earlier my trek began on the paved road outside our villa. I just wanted to see what was beyond the curve of the beach. It was Wednesday and I needed a change of pace from my normal routine of readings. It was just before 10 a.m. A quick hike and I would return for an afternoon siesta. Do I need water?? Na, I will be back before it gets hot!! Wallet? Sure just incase I need to buy some souvenirs. Camera? Of course, what would a hike be without photos. Cell Phone? Yea, just incase someone calls. PSP? Check, I wanted to rock out to some tunes along the way.

The first hour was uneventful. I hiked along a mostly sandy beach. Along the trail I saw a baby shark. This was not a refreshing sight, seeing that I had been swimming in those same waters an hour earlier. Apparently he was caught some distance off the coast though…Swew!! Towards the end of the hour the terrain became more and more rocky. I had passed a fisherman hunting in the shallow waters. Little did I know that this would be the last human I would see for some time.

As I approached the first of many obstacles, I was overcome with a sense of bravado. As I went along, I found what seemed to be paths here and there. I joined these paths before returning to the rocky coast and cliffs. 15ft below was the ocean with its crystal clear waters. I thought to myself, “if anything I can swim around?” My first obstacle was a large boulder. It was about 15ft high, which now made the water 30ft below. There was no getting over it. The only choice was to turn around or find a way around. That little voice in all of us telling me to turnaround and call it a day was subsequently silenced by the spirit of adventure. All of the sudden reason and planning were tossed aside for rush of adrenaline. I was going to take on the rock; I just had to figure out how. To the right was the ocean and very very sharp coral rock to cushion my fall. To the left uncertain rocks and a steep climb. I decided to take the path without the coral cushion. After a short climb I found myself straddling a cave and a dubious fall. Needless to say my focus was sharper than the rocks I clung too. Like Spiderman I made my way up, over, and around this rock. My first victory only made me thirst for more. I was a junkie, and like most junkies, my demise was inevitable.

From the top of the rocks I could see a beach in the distance. My interest was sparked. Could I make? … Of course…”I’m O King baby!!” My trip in Jamaica had been a serendipitous adventure and surely this would become part of the fairytale. As my watch struck noon I once again heard that voice who was not so tiny anymore. Yet, my spirit wanted to push on. Surely I was not the first to attempt this feat, and I could always swim back. I decided to press on.

Around 12:15 I made it to a little beach. Like a desert oasis, this tiny stretch of sand served as a temporary resting place for me as I took time to appreciate all the natural beauty. I vowed to return to this beach one day…but by boat.
Looking at my watch I decided to push on. I wanted to get to the beach in the distance that could not be to far away now. The terrain became much more treacherous. I found myself clinging to trees and rocks more the ever before. Those paths that I had seen before had suddenly forsaken me and I was lost for all intense and purposes. Above me I noticed one scavenger, I thought his nest must be close. I pushed forward. I knew that if I could stay close to the coast, I would eventually get back to the rocks. An hour after I had left my little beach, I found myself knee deep in thorns and brush. This was not good. The forest provided some protection from Jamaican sun, but my swim trunks and tank were soaked with sweat.

As I reached another rock obstacle, that tiny voice was broadcasting loud and clear. “Turn around….NOW!!!” 3hrs into the trip, Reason and Adventure had a pow wow. They decided to bring forth a case of why I should carry on. “Surely the beach is closer than a return trip that took us 3hrs to get here? Lets keep going and see what happens…You’ve come this far right??” Unwillingly my doubt subsided and fear once again turned into adrenaline as I pushed on with a feverish pace. I found an old log and proceeded to bash my way through the brush, making a path were none existed before. My legs bloodied and scared became numb to the pain as I raced through thistles along my way. As long as I was bleeding I was still alive. My decision keep going could only be met with victory. My will to succeed was at times putting my life in peril as I was all alone. I could’ve fallen at any moment and broke something. To make it worse, not only would no one have known, but the chances of me being found would have decreased seeing that the scavengers (now 3 in #) were still circling above. Am I strong enough. My faith kept me strong. I have strong idea that this path I was going down (both figuratively and literally) was leading somewhere. God has always made a way for me when things seemed impossible….Why would today be any different?? Turning around or calling for help was not an option only unless I was faced with death. My faith brought me peace, although I wished it could somehow formulate that peace into some form of hydration. (Oh Moses….how did you pull that off??) I realized that without hydration, my muscle could cramp at any time or I could lose my balance. These thoughts raced through my mind as I climbed up another rock. I realized I was truly walking (or climbing) by faith and not by sight!!

I returned to the coast to see the beach was coming closer but still I had some impossible terrain to be crossed. 4hrs into the journey and my camera battery was dieing. I decided to make one last video of my trip. (Just incase they find the camera and not me!) At this point my play list had thankfully switched from Rock to Gospel. My spirit was lifted. I made my final plan and assault. I would attack from the coast as long as possible. This proved to be a difficult choice as the loose rocks and sharp coral edged the coast. I was forced to push my way through the brush and trees. I found the terrain to filled with twice thorns as before, my legs and arms had no time to bleed. I needed water and fast. As I came over a final set of rocks I could see two heads swimming distantly in the water. Where there are people, there is water!!

It was just after 2pm and I was exhausted. The final obstacle was some thick brush that came up to my shoulder. I tried to bash my way through but to no avail. I thought, “Isn’t every Jamaican supposed to carry a Machete… standard??” I wanted to scream as this final barrier kept me from triumph on white sandy beaches. My frustration only led to more cuts as the thorns dug into my thighs and hand. The battle wounds well deserved. My senseless bravado had led me to dead end only a hundred yards from my goal. My scars would only prove the legend one day….but first I had to find a way out of this brush. It could not end like this. I took time to compose myself. I was not going through chest high brush. This was a fact. I decided to back track slightly and find a way around. Surely if I could make it to the coast I could find a spot to dive in. Even if it meant losing my electrical items, I was willing to take that risk. As I began to back track, I noticed a set of rocks just beyond some shallow brush. Overdrive kicked in. I made and one final charge and subsequently began to pick up speed. My legs charged through the vines like a running back barreling over defenders. At one point I was walking on top of the brush and branches like Christ on water. Finally my sneakers hit sand. I put my arms up in celebration of the victory. My ocean audience applauded with calm waves crashing in.

My victory dance was now short lived I found the most desolate beach in human history. “Where were those two heads I previously saw?” I began my march along the beach. Like an angel transfigured in the shape of a human, I found a man waiting on his fisherman friends to return. He asked where I had come from? I laughed. His eyes opened as I told him my journey. He offered me some of his water, but I only took a little not being greedy, he seemed hesitant about it at first. He would have given me a ride but his friends were returning soon. Rather than waiting I decided to make my way home via a taxi. My journey was almost complete. I asked him how to get the main road and he said there was a path a few hundred yards up the beach. Great!! I was on my way again after a tease of some water.

As I approached the path I saw the hill in the background and knew thatI would be climbing this in order to get to civilization. I pushed forward. Uphill I walked for what seemed to be an eternity but was more like 45 minutes. At points I felt my hamstrings and calves cramping and stopped to stretch them out. My chest was imploding as my heart raced. I could see the heat rising from the earth ahead of me. As I looked down I saw blue empty shells of shotgun scattered about the road, I realized that this was a road seldom used. I wonder what or frightfully “who” the were shooting at? Surely I was not trespassing? I hope I was not walking into someones illegal garden?? My head was becoming light as the heat was causing slight dizziness. Was this it? Did I come all this way to pass out on some country road with no water? That tiny voice had gone fishing as he was disgusted by all my antics. His displeasure with my actions has left him with a smug smile ever since my first no. I knew I could make it, yet every step seemed as though I was mixing cement with my feet. My PSP provided me my only solace as the praise & worship tunes played out. As I reached the end of a long straight I made a turn. I pulled out my earphone to here the only thing sweeter than the music playing. A car horn. Yes that sweet-augmented fifth was more the devil in music for me now. I shook off the cinder blocks around my ankles and concluded my trek by hiring a taxi. Although he was not heading in my direction I offered to double his fair if he took me home. The 15 minute car ride home did no justice to the 5 ½ hour trek I had made. As I surveyed the landscape from the passenger window I shook my head and realized…

I ‘m an Idiot!!

But I would do it all over again!!

Grandma Visit

2006-04-18T01:27:00.000-04:00

Granny,

Over the river and through the woods to grandmothers house we went. My granny is just over a 100 yrs of age. She has a spirit that makes me smile every time I think of her. She lives in Long Road Jamaica, which is a few miles inland off the north central coast. Her house is a shack at best and she loves it!! Her smile and laugh would light up any room. As I walked down the steps to her house, her eyes lit up as it was an unexpected visit, surprises are always welcome by everyone. (My embrace of my grandmother was a spiritual exchange). It was nice to make the pilgrimage to see her. She lives so far from what we would consider civilization. The road took 45min just to travel 4 miles!! At points people walked by and stayed ahead of us as we conquered the terrain. Yet her smile made it worth it.

Growing up I never spent much time with granny because we lived so far away. My mom always told me about her, but as the song says, ”Ain’t nothing like the real thing”. My granny is quite alert for 100; she keeps up on politics and all that is going on from the radio broadcasts she listens to. My cousins still live around her and offer her support for the little things she needs, but she mostly lives on her own surrounded by a host of grandchildren.

As we talked her message to me became clear. She wants great-grandchildren from me!! I thought my mom was bad, but how do you dodge a 100yr old when she asks you questions about why you are not married? I explained to her that I was not ready yet and was still searching for the right one. She understood but said before she goes to heaven; she would like to hold one of my children. I fought back a tear. Her life is such a wonderful refreshment to the chaos we have created. Her appreciation for the simple things in life makes my existence seem that much better. She loves all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I could only hope that my life would be as blessed as her has been. We talked a little more and she reiterated an idea to me numerous times. Her quote for the day was this:

“The good you do, will get you through life”

She uttered this to her other grand-children hanging around the house and to me a few times. She said these words with a sense of pride knowing that I had come so far to see her. This brought her a great amount of joy just seeing me she said. My life was the embodiment of her trials and tribulations at that moment. She saw me as a shinning example and that, “it was all worth it” smile came on her face. Very few of us get this type of gratification from a simple visit. Again her words caused a rush in my heart. I imagined her world before I was even born and the temper tantrums my mom must have thrown. I imagined the extra hours she put in to send my mom to the best schools and eventually to college. I imagined all of her extras patient as she watched over my brothers and sisters my parents worked abroad. All of the love that she has shown to her family was being returned by a simple visit. It humbled me as I felt I was in the presence of greatness. My life is where it is because of the love she shared, and I was overjoyed to return a small portion.

My granny visit was coming to an end. After a toast and some lunch we made the trip back to Kingston. Before I left, we embraced, exchanged “I love you’s” and said our goodbyes. On my return home I reflected on the joy this day had brought. My trip would not have felt right if I did not see her. My life would not have been blessed if I had not known her.

Welcome

2006-04-18T01:14:00.000-04:00

I hope to use this forum to communicate my innermost thoughts and ideas. I also plan on throwing in a crazy story or too!!

Get ready to see topics from all over the spectrum. Join in and lets have fun!!

Love for All,

O King