Reflections and Resolutions: Happy Holidays, Ever Forwards

It been a while since my last post, and what a year it has been. Right now it remains a blur, so there is nothing to do but keep moving forward. I'm trying to enjoy the night, so I'll keep this short. If 08' was a bad year, 09' takes the cake. New Years Eve started off nice only to have New Years end in drama, marking the beginning of the end of a long friendship. Then, apprehensive and scared out my mind I got under the knife to repair a torn up knee from a simple pick up game; something I still haven't fully recovered from. School and work, well I'll just leave it at that. I'm not trying complain or say, "woe is me." but that's how the year went. Like my knee, I see it as a year or rebuilding and switching around the foundations I stand on. Having heard other people's 2009 woes, along with the current events of the world, I'd say it's a rebuilding year in general. Through all the loses, the ups and downs, I've learned a great deal: Your first love teaches you how to love, how to be loved, how to be a better you, and what not to tolerate; blood doesn't necessarily equal family, your true friends and family make it all worth while, It's not who you've know the longest, but who's never left your side, do what you love and never work another day in your life, most importantly find something to laugh about everyday, which is my resolution, along with being a more content individual. Much more than that, there's not a whole lot more I can say, but Happy New Year! There's much more to come! God Bless!

We Were Once A Fairytale

I came across this video a couple days ago and I thought that I would share it with you, that is if you are not familiar with it already. This is Kanye West's short film adaptation of "See You in My Nightmares," featuring Lil Wayne off of his 808's and Heartbreaks album. It is directed by Spike Jonze (Where the Wild Things Are) and it shows a rather dark and ominous side of the artist. It is a bit freaky, but also pretty cool. Take a look and leave your thoughts and comments. If it does not make sense the first time do not worry about it. It might take a couple views to understand the message behind this, and there are a few theories floating around. Anyway, Kanye is known for coming out with his share of interesting and odd videos. You got to love it because it takes viewers away from that generic form of media, which perhaps inspires you to think a little. Whether you love or hate Kanye, I think you should see this one. Supposedly, this video is not the complete finished product. If that is true, it would be interesting to see how the rest of this mini movie plays out.

Back From Hiatus

I've been a way for awhile and I just want to catch up with my readers. If you've been wondering where I've been all this time...well, to sum it up, I've been taking care of some much needed business. I'm trying to finish up school and I got a new apartment, among other things, so I've been pretty busy. Don't worry I'm going to keep it coming for you all out there. I might change some things up too. It doesn't hurt to add a little flare. Stay on the look out for some new posts in the near future. I'm going to try to post something new about every other week, probably on Sundays. Right now I'm still trying to get settled and balance all my time and responsibilities, but it's going to be good. I look forward to it. For all of you who do follow the blog I appreciate it and there's more to come! I'm excited, and you should be too! Let a friend or a friend of a friend know about the movement too. I'm trying to up my readership and get some more recognition. If you have any suggestions, comments, or if there's anything you would like to see me touch upon, just let me know. As always, Your feedback is important.

Have a good night and God Bless.

I <3 Music

Can I just say that I'm excited about the state of music again! It seems like there is life out there after all; not to say that all music out today, is bad. I've recently been hearing a nice range of new and good music lately. The music is alive again. It's fresh, it's fun, it's intelligent, and most of all it's creative! There's a slew of new talent (yes, actually talented), i.e. Drake, Kid Cudi, Ryan Leslie, Asher Roth, Charles Hamilton, Wale, who constantly bring new energy and creativity to the game. Then there's the Veterans, i.e. Jay Z, Eminem, Kanye West, John Legend, Trey Songz, and Maxwell, to name a few, that keep coming out and producing quality music. Be on the look out for Jay Z's Blueprint 3 (Sept. 11) and Em's Relapse 2. Trey's new album is due out Aug. 31 and Kanye is due to have a new album sometime next year. Maxwell's new album "Blacksummersnight" is in stores now along with John Legend's "Revolver," and they are both fire! On the more alternative side, there's Gym Class Heroes, Cobra Starship, and Fall Out Boy bringing the heat. To be honest I've been slacking on the Reggae tip, but the the Dancehall world is a blaze too! There's a new Cd from Sean Paul and new music from Bennie, Bounty, Movado, Vbyz and many more. Like I said, I'm pretty excited of what's to come. The song you're about to hear is what prompted me to post this in the first place. It's a crazy callabo of major artists, featuring one the greatets rappers to grace this earth, Marshall Mathers. Make sure to pause the music on this page before you play it. Here it is:

Forever with Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Eminem (in that order).

Same Song & Dance

Here's another one for you. It's a little rhyme I put together, based on various experiences from myself and others. It's drawn up like a conversation... I Hope you enjoy! Leave your thoughts and opinions. You know I love the feedback.


She said they never change
That's right they never do
She said they all the same
And that's including you
But I could say the same
Yet I'm trying play this through
I'm not into playing games
I'm just into knowing you
She said yeah I've heard before
To how many have you said that before
What kind of fool do you take me for
I'm not into getting ranked for score
Sure that You're a nice guy
More certainly a wise guy
But you have no idea what I had to put up with the last guy
So soon as this is over I'ma say that was a nice try
I said I know you're hurt dear
Let me make this one clear
I come to you with no fear
With something I think we could share
Don't you think we'd make a good pair
But...that only made her eyes glare
She laughed,
I think you're funny dude
I also think you're kind of rude
How dare you come in here, intrude
And think that you could have me fooled
Back up, now, don't break the rules
I'm not gunna make the same mistakes for you
Even though you're kinda cute
What kind of real feelings could you have fueled
Now she didn't give me a chance
That's the problem with romance
Turned down at quick glance...
I don't know what's lies deep inside
But let me give you a piece of mind:
You say every guy is the same
All they do is play games
But have you ever took the time to change
Maybe your aim is short ranged
So you come up with short change
But what I trying to say is,
I think you're amazing
And it's a damn shame
Those fools couldn't see it
I human too
I know you like what you like
But don't shut me out
I've Been there too
And it's hard to see past what your used to
There comes a time you need you try something different
Instead of being so distant
If you're to afraid to,
Then there's something you might end up missing
You'll catch the same fish and throw em' back in the same pond fishing
And your way beyond small bodies of water
And I figure you've cried bodies of water
I'm not trying to pressure you or be your man
If I ever offend you, I apologize in advance
All that I've been saying is that I understand,
But you should let love dance
Like it's supposed to...

Mental Note

I was just thinking to myself, that life shouldn't be so difficult. I don't necessarily believe it was meant to be that way. I believe that if everyone took the time to look at themselves and take care of themselves, then life would be a whole lot easier. If even one person took the time to take care of themselves; finding what truly makes them happy and truly being happy, thus finding contentment with their lives, then this joy and happiness would spread to others. It would inspire otheres to do the same. In being happy with yourself and your life as it is, and as you make it; everything else, which matters even less, should fall into place. Once you find that inner glow, that inner peace, then everything else will flow naturally. I truly believe that, however, I'm still working at it....It's all easier said than done, but the power lies within us. That being said, I have a couple poems that I will be posting up soon. So, keep a look out for them. I've been enjoying all the positive feedback. God Bless.

Funny People

To start off the weekend I went to go see the new Judd Apatow movie, Funny People. It stars Adam Sandler, Seth Rogan, and Leslie Mann. I'd have to say it that was not a bad movie at all. The movie chronicles the life of successful comedian, George Simmons (Adam Sandler), as goes through life after discovering that he has an advanced form of leukemia. At some point, the audience comes to realize the depth in Simmons' character. He is quite alone, desensitized, and disconnected from most other human beings. While performing at a local venue one night, he discovers the talents of the young, struggling comedian; Ira Wright (Seth Rogan). In light of his condition, he takes in Ira as his apprentice/assistant. Over the course of the film, the pair begins to build a strong friendship. It seems that in his misfortune, he is on the verge to new found humanity. This also pushes him to seek out his long, lost love, Laura (Leslie Mann); "The one that got away," not soon before he discovers he is cured of the disease. Of course, Laura is married to Clarke (Eric Bana), with two children in the mix. It all made up to be an interesting plot. The movie, while hilarious, hinted at some valuable suggestions about life: Nothing is guaranteed, Life is not guaranteed, so make sure to cheerish every moment, Be true to yourself, Always remember who your true friends are and keep them close, continue to learn from your mistakes, and learn to forgive yourself, And if you every find someone you truly love, who loves you right back, don't let it slip, cheerish them, start everyday fresh and treat it as the last. Most importantly, you can't expect to be happy with someone if you are unhappy with yourself. You are the key to your own happiness. It's all easier said than done, but I know that I can truly relate. Overall, I give this movie a 3.5 out 5, because it started to drag on towards the end and then it just sort of ended. In terms of funniness I'll give it a 4.5 out of 5. Adam Sandler and Seth Rogan together was just hysterical from start to finish, and lets not forget the supporting cast as well. I don't know if you'll get what I got out of it, but you'll definitely get a good laugh. Funny People is definitely one of the better comedies I've seen in a while. The rest of the cast includes: Jonah Hill as Leo, Jason Schwartzman as Mark, Aubrey Plaza as Daisy, The RZA as Chuck, and Aziz Ansari as Randy. There was also a ton of guest appearances, some surprising, which is to expected in an Adam Sandler movie, or anyone from the old SNL (Saturday Night Live) Crew. If you're looking for a good laugh then you need to go check out Funny People!

Just Say No!

NBA free agent, Stephon Marbury, seems to have completely lost it. Maybe "the pressure" finally got to him. First, the "Starbury" tattoo on the side of his head and now, well...yeah. There's not much to say about the former Celtic on this one. I think the videos speak for themselves. They're both comical and quite disturbing at the same time. Moral of the story, just say no!

He Says He's Sorry

Here is the recent video of Chris Brown apologizing, regarding the whole domestic abuse incident. There's alot of on talk on whether he is sincere or not, either way it takes alot of strength to apologize for ANY Huge mistake, Especially one on this magnitude. There is NO excuse for ANY man putting his hands on a woman. At the same time, you have to wonder what Rihanna did to set this guy off? Again, I'm NOT saying that she or any other women would've deserved it, but short of the man being completely out of his mind, there had to be some button seriously incited to set someone into a rage like that. Hands down he was wrong, but maybe there is some extent of wrong on both sides. Let it be a lesson to all of us. Think before, you say or do. Respect yourself first; you will be able to give respect and receive it. Fellas; take care of your ladies. Ladies; never let a man hit you, and take care of your men too. Peace and Love. Check out the video. It's going to be a media circus, correction, it already is.

She Wasn't that Great...

This one sort of just came to me. It's about...well just read. I hope you enjoy. As always feel free to leave your thoughts, comments, and feelings. I love the feedback and I'd like to hear from you...


She was kinda cute
Had dimples with a smile too
She might of had me fooled
But that was my fault too
Slender, quick, a lil thick, and fun to be with
Occasionally, I laughed at Her wit
Sometimes it was cute, the way she would throw fits
At times I thought She was the only one I should be with
I loved to make her laugh
If anything, number one in my draft
Intelligent, but at the same time daft
But arent't we all
In one increment or another
My size
The right fit
Golden Brown
Peach lips
I won't lie, I felt it through my finger tips
If that was all...
But that was it
As deep as I explored
There was nothing more
Just a generic fixture of a picture of my black sister, digitized from an HD mixture
And excuse me if I get too deep
But I'm deep
And deep oceans are more vivid than shallow streams
In my opinion...
Now ain't saying she was shallow
But... It is what it is
A mirage
To add to my repertoire of knowledge
It's part the reason I went to college
A part of my dreams
Now the rest, you wouldn't even believe
Trust, I'm not putting Her down
Somewhere every Queen deserves their crown
But not from me
And maybe She could be
A Queen
No ones perfect
I'm not
At one point, I damn near thought she was
But that wasn't to be
Yeah, she was okay
But... She wasn't that Great
Not to me...

Love Always Shines Everytime Remember 2 Smile (L.A.S.E.R.S.)

So I think this video is relevant to my last post (You Are What You Eat).
Its a video by rapper Lupe Fiasco, promoting his next album entitled L.A.S.E.R.S. He gets into some thought provoking stuff. I also think the video is pretty cool, so check it out. As always feel free to leave your thoughts, comments, likes or dislikes. And if you don't know by now who Lupe Fiasco is now is you chance.

1 Love

You Are What You Eat

They say you are what you eat, rather you are you what you absorb; whether it be food, drink, music, people, your environment. At some point or another, we become the very things that are allowed to enter our bodies; good or bad. For example, you eat unhealthy foods and don't exercise, you become as unhealthy as your lifestyle. You do nothing but smoke and/or drink, or consume certain substances, "legal or illegal," it eventually takes a tole on your body. If you grew up or live in a negative environment, your morale eventually if not sooner, becomes just as negative as your situation. Say you hang around a group of people who are always up to no good, are always getting in trouble, and have no ambition to do anything profitable or productive, then what do you think will happen? Maybe you don't necessarily become exactly like those people, but it sort of becomes all you know after awhile. You might become as small minded as them. Maybe you don't do the things that they do, but sooner or later you're going to be affected by just being associated. You're going to end up in a situation you never wanted to be in in the first place. All that negative energy is going to affect you somehow, and to the point where you will start spewing out negativity on some level. Life isn't so much about what happens to you, as much as it is, how you choose to let it affect you. You can choose what you want in your body and you can choose to get out of a harmful situation or to separate yourself from people who only bring you down. Surrounding ourselves with positivity; food wise, people wise, environmentally wise, and even music wise, provides us with the keys for healthy, prosperous living. However, and especially in today's world, that is all easier said than done.
I'm not sure, but maybe it's the tragic death of MJ or the combination of things going on in my personal life that has lead me to touch on the subject. I grew up in a strict Jamaican household, where my parent (my mother) would not allow any kind of slackness. At times it was hard, and I felt it to be unfair that I couldn't do some of the things I saw other kids doing. For one thing, she was right when she would say that I would appreciate it one day. Standing where I am now, it makes a lot more sense. I am definitely grateful and blessed; blessed to have sense. Especially now, when my sister and I are grown, I believe my mother to be much more understanding and laid back when it comes to certain things. I know everyone will be talking about MJ (may he rest in peace). but I'll mention him again. For as long as I can remember, I have been n love with music. It still gets me through the day, while maintaining my sanity. As far as I remember, Michael's music is where this long love affair begins. In light of recent events, I find myself reminiscing, as I'm sure we all have, of trying to dance and sing like Mike as a kid. Everyone wanted to be like Mike right? Who doesn't have fond memories of sliding across the kitchen floor in their socks, trying to reenact the moon walk? Its one of those things my mom found adorable, and even encouraged. I think it was early grade school when I began getting into hip hop. For a period it was probably all I listened to. I lived and grew up on Hot 97 radio station. This became a bit of a concern to my late grandma and my mom. My mom, for one, could not stand rap music! She couldn't stand the music because all she could hear was the objectification of women and its use of crude and vulgar language. She would always say that what I put in my body will come out one way or another. So if i filled my ears with filth and garbage, that would be exactly what would come out of me. Of course I never really listened, nor understood what she meant. I always thought she was being over critical, and as the famous line goes, "Parents just don't understand." Only now does it make sense to me. Whatever you ingest definitely affects your mood, well being, and general outlook.
Have you ever sat and listened to one of the many songs of today, which lack real substance, or watched one of the many mind numbing reality TV shows that the networks keep pumping out? How do you really feel afterward? I think we all start to become a little dull and numbed down after a while. I'm going to go on a little bit of a tangent just say that in Michael's prime and even still, during the late 90s, the majority of entertainment we see today would have been unacceptable! Think about it. Maybe after honoring the life of a legend we'll remember what quality music and entertainment is all about. Getting back to my point, and the reason I started this post, the people in our lives especially have an influence in our personal health and growth. I'm still young, but in the past few years, and with the experience of college, I've gone through a lot of "friends." I've come to find those who are my real friends and those who only stood around for one reason or another, but mostly for heir own personal gain. I read somewhere, where it was simply put that "some people are just poison." These type of people are to be avoided like the plague. They are as poisonous as snake venom or close to the toxins in the processed foods and drugs we put into our bodies. Today, I probably have the least amount of "friends" I've ever had, but I'll take quality over quantity. I've been through the liars, fronters, and the flakes; all of them fake. I've been through my share of ill intentioned females as well, but that's another blog... Then there's those you've been friends with for years, who u feel indebted to. They've changed, not for the better, and leave you feeling stuck and uncomfortable. There are those who may be genuinely good people, but just can't stay out of trouble. Because you hang out with them, you sometimes get dragged into the drama as a well. I mean drama to the point where you could end up in the hospital or in hand cuffs. You become the mediator and you are always on edge. It all becomes very draining. Once that begins to happen, those people have become poison. How could you ever expect to grow and be prosperous when stuck in any of these positions. Sometimes I've had to learn the hard way that i needed to let these people go in order to move forward, even if that meant walking alone. My main goal for this year has been to take better care of myself, and lately I've probably have never been more uncertain of which path to take. Whatever may happen, I'm just trying my best to surround myself with the right people and feed myself with the right foods. Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Healthy Spirit.

Blessings