Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Monday, July 16, 2012
Sunday, July 15, 2012
REDD'S Voice on Homophoia and Black Consciousness
[Painting, 'DANTE AND VIRGIL IN HELL' by WILLIAM BOUGUERAEU 1850]
Someone asked a question about "Homophobia" in a
forum designated for AFRICAN-AMERICANS who are supposed to be "socially
conscious." But I find that these people are only advocates for
AFRICAN-AMERICAN heterosexual Christians. A lot of people made
homophobic comments in the forum; and tried to make the case that
homosexuals are evil, killing our society, and somehow responsible for
murder and rape [among other things]. When you begin to qualify whom
you'll be "socially conscious" for [and not be "conscious" across the
board], you can quickly become "socially UNconscious" in a lot of areas. I'm going to post my reply (to the topic in the forum)...
REDD'S Commentary
"WOW! The vitriol and absence of mature, objective conversation in this area speaks volumes. Humanity is mentally and emotionally WEAK; so weak that people can teach us to HATE other people [in the name religion or mere IGNORANCE], and instead of us researching the ideology and philosophy of the generation(s) before ours, we just blindly accept and internalize that same IGNORANCE. Then, we grow to believe it so fiercely that we become adamant in our disdain and opposition to any issues or subject matter that we've been programmed to dislike, and have never taken the time to research or study.
As a mature and (hopefully) wise adult, I try to view matters from as many different angles as possible. I don't want to be ignorant; and I definitely don't want my son to be ignorant [or intolerant to anyone based on gender, ethnicity, culture, sexual preference, political or religious beliefs]. Bisexuals, homosexuals, and even transgendered people are human, first. They live, love, and have highs and lows in life like everyone else. Those who are attracted to the same gender do NOT endanger by life, my family, my religion, my world-view, my political policy positions, or the society at large. Those who are attracted to the same gender are NOT part of some elaborate plot to destroy the world; otherwise, that would have happened thousands of years ago when homosexuality was the norm in some regions, cultures, and religions (as a religious rite). Homosexuality should NOT be compared to murder, molestation, rape, incest, or malice. I doubt that homosexuals are thinking about the ills of another person's personal code of morality, in their quest to be a viable part of the nation. They just want to live and love; in a Democratic Republic where they - by the letter of the law - have the inalienable right to do so.
I don't like to make comparisons, per se; because I believe that all comparisons are odious, in one way or another. But I am baffled by those who want African-Americans [human beings] to have the same liberties as any other non African American (heterosexual; it seems) citizen, then rail against the HUMAN RIGHTS of Homosexuals [human beings] who want the liberties that their votes and tax dollars dictate that they should have. They are NOT sub-par beings or 3/5ths human. They are 100% human beings with a 100% right to live as they desire to live in a nation that promotes "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" for every human being. I could go on, but, I digress for now."
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
Friday, July 13, 2012
Thursday, July 12, 2012
The Genius of the Pharaohs of ancient EGYPT
[Diorite statue housed at the EGYPTIAN MUSEUM
in CAIRO, EGYPT. Diorite stone is similar to granite, but it is more
dense and harder to cut.]
PHARAOH KHAFRE [reigned 2558-2532 B.C.]! I'm
presently studying the Pharaohs of ancient EGYPT! I want to go see some
of the carvings, statues, and busts of EGYPT from the 3rd-13th Dynasties
(2649-1640 B.C.) at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NEW YORK. I'll
plan that for the beginning or the middle of August. I just realized I
didn't get to explore an ENTIRE section of EGYTIAN art at the BRITISH
MUSEUM the last time I was there [I didn't get there until sunset; so I
only had approx 2 hours to browse]. Next trip, I'm going to spend an
entire day in that section alone. I've developed such a fascination for
northern & eastern AFRICAN art & culture, and MIDDLE EASTERN art
& culture; this new appetite is swiftly catching up to my love for
JAPANESE, CHINESE, and INDIAN art & culture. I'm such a nerd!
#Poindexter
PHARAOH KAFRE is responsible
for the 2nd largest pyramid in EGYPT; and Archeologists believe that he
is responsible for orchestrating the construction of the SPHINX [which probably exhibited his face before being damaged by EMPEROR NAPOLEON of FRANCE over 4,000 years after its construction]!
EGYPTIAN citizens, not slaves, probably built the SPHINX [possibly 2,000
or more people; working year round until it was completed]. He was a smart
guy.
I'm just wondering how the EGYPTIANS
were able to make sculptures out of diorite, polish them, and move them around
(because this particular state weighs a few tons). This statue
of PHARAOH KHAFRE isn't going anywhere any time soon; it will probably
be around until the end of time. It's almost indestructible. I'm
fascinated by the genius of the EGYPTIANS. His son and successor
MENKAURE is etched into GREYWACHE stone; which doesn't shine as brightly
as DIORITE, but it's also a hard stone. Now, I get why a lot of these
statues and busts from 2700-1500 B.C. have held up so well. I'm really
intrigued! WOW!
The ancient EGYPTIANS fascinate me, tremendously. They
seem to have managed time and resources very well. Plus, they didn't
mind hard work. I've been learning to renovate homes; because I want to
acquire more properties and renovate them myself. I
always keep in mind that the EGYPTIANS made it happen without the kind
of technology we presently enjoy. So, I can't complain or make excuses. I
don't have to make bricks with straw; or chisel rock for walls or
accents. I have it easy. They didn't have LOWE'S and HOME DEPOT! LOL!
"From my lips to your soul!"
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Wed July 11, 2012
After a long and crazy day, a good workout is therapeutic. I'm going to sleep like a baby tonight. I think I may wake up and blog about a few things that have on my mind for the past week. I don't want this to just be about ME! I want to use this venue to help people think and behave differently. So, I'll work on that.
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
Monday, July 9, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Mon July 9, 2012
People say I'm "too smart for my own good." But my failure is in my kindness, not my intelligence. If I were rude (or a celebrity), I would get more results for all of the programs and services I offer. I have a non-profit organization that I need to build. But, the challenge for me is getting people to help with the work. When an organization isn't glamorized on TV, people don't usually want to be connected or involved. However, if I reach out to my associates at CNN and commit to an interview, I'll have people tripping over each other to be connected to what I'm doing. I think it's sad that we need the media and or celebrity to get people in America to participate in a worthy cause. I guess, in time, I'll have to use media to my advantage in order to get some real work done. The only problem with that is: after you're profiled on TV, you become a celebrity (local, regional, national, or international) and I really don't want or need that. Then I have to swallow my pride and remember, "REDD, it's not about you!" I can accomplish my goals and try to (on some level) live out my life as a hermit. I started this blog, as well, because I know that I have to use all avenues available to me to promote what I'm offering. I guess it'll work, for now.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Sun July 8, 2012
What a day! I spent a lot of time reading articles and studying; studying a plethora of different subjects. I'm not sure why I was all over the place today, but I was. I'm in limbo as it relates to meeting space for a non-profit organization I've started. I will find out in a few days if I'm going to get the space Downtown Atlanta that I've been scoping out. So, I will keep my fingers crossed.
The first week of July is over. So, I can start blogging in more detail as planned. I've just had so much on my plate this week; and I wasn't able to really let loose in this blog as I had originally planned. But, I'll be posting more extensively as the days and weeks go by. I hope that everyone reading this blog will be able to get something positive and useful for their journey. That's my main goal; and I'll be working toward accomplishing that in the near future.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Sat July 7, 2012
It's going to take that to reach my fitness and business goals. I'm not where I need to be physically or mentally. I hold myself back; because I have a fear of failure. Then, I shut down when things don't flow as planned. But, that has to change; today! I have a lot of goals. I also know that I can achieve all of them with the right state of mind and some hard work.
Friday, July 6, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Fri July 6, 2012
I think the quote above speaks volumes. It says more within the confines of one sentence than I could even begin to write within the format of this blog. I believe it's easier to be kind and compassionate than it is to be evil and malicious. It also takes a degree of intelligence to analyze and manage one's thoughts when deciding between the two poles. Let's also consider that "Intelligence has its limits; but ignorance knows no bounds." I guess that's why we see a patten of wickedness more often than the few traces of love in the world. That's food for thought.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Thurs July 5, 2012...
I have to continue pushing myself each day. I'm trying to make improvements; spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. I realize that change is a day by day process; and I mean to see it through. I know I have to stop using my two (2) strokes as an excuse to feel sorry for myself; and spend the rest of my life doing the bare minimum, in all areas. I'm strong and disciplined enough to get up each day and make life happen.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Wed July 4, 2012...
Today was a simple, lazy day for me. I had a major sinus migraine, so I stayed indoors. I was able to read a little, sleep a lot, and watch some movies on TV. I hope to be out of the country next year this time. That would be good. If I'm not out of the country, then I'll go to NEW ORLEANS for the Essence Music Festival. Decisions, decisions...!
When I was on FACEBOOK today, I saw
The larger question is: Are
we celebrating the Independence Day of yesteryear only; or is it safe to
celebrate what has evolved from the initial Independence Day? It's all
about perception, it seems. I wonder why the same people
who hate Independence Day don't hate READING and EDUCATION in this
country; because the slaves were tortured and killed if they could read
or if they were educated. Why are READING and EDUCATION different?
Should those things be rejected, too; according to that logic? There I go thinking again. I just wish that people could choose their battles more wisely. I'm sure that most of the people who have a disdain for Independence Day think I'm someone who is either a conformist or a slavery sympathizer. I'm neither. I just think that we can celebrate the progression of AMERICA from the original Independence Day to the present one.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
REDD'S Journal: A Day in the Life Tue July 3, 2012
I have PUERTO RICO on the brain. I'm due for a trip to SAN JUAN in August and again in October. As I workout for the next 88 days, I'll also be focusing on improving my Spanish skills. I ultimately want to work up to becoming fluent. But, I know that will take some time and a lot of hard work. I'm built for the challenge.
We experienced a major thunderstorm in ATLANTA today. It made me long for the waters of the beach behind CARIBE HILTON hotel; or the clear sand of LA CULEBRA beach. I can really see myself living in PUERTO RICO. I can spend the day working on my fluency and spend the evenings lounging at the beach; watching the waves crash and listening to the whistle of the wind from the water. That's Heaven.
I went out into the rain today, to pick up a tuxedo for DEITRICK & MELISSA'S wedding this weekend. AARON FRANK'S car is a sauna. I'm going to try to help him get a new compressor; so he won't have to endure the heat of the rest of this Summer (with its record high temperatures). The heat in the car was only intense because we had to keep the windows up to prevent the rain from drenching the upholstery and flooring. The rising temperature, the rain, the thunder, and the darkness that hovered had me daydreaming about settling into the sand and following the path of the passing boats and the approaching waves. Yeah; that's Heaven.
Monday, July 2, 2012
The R.E.D.D. Revolution, Inc.
The R.E.D.D. Revolution [Reduction and Elimination of Devastating Debt]
is a non-profit organization designed to eliminate the DEBT and stop the
HOME FORECLOSURE crisis facing our fellow AMERICANS. The R.E.D.D.
Revolution is a division of the Christian International Fellowship. We
believe that it is our Christian duty to assist ALL of GOD'S children;
so that they can see and experience the compassion of CHRIST through the work that we believe we are called to do.
As a non-profit organization, ALL of the funds that we generate are used for DEBT ELIMINATION and ANTI-FORECLOSURE purposes ONLY. We collect money and use that money to eliminate DEBT; slowly and legally repair the CREDIT of everyone we help; and acquire and pay off the properties of those facing FORECLOSURE. We also put all participants through a Money & Credit Management course; designed to keep them out of debt and teach them how to budget their money, live within their means, and spend using cash ONLY. ALL participants must cut their credit cards and close all open lines of credit.
The REVOLUTION involves embracing a NEW and better way of viewing PERSONAL FINANCE and CREDIT! We will NOT:
[1] Live on CREDIT;
[2] Live in DEBT (or by a code of perpetual debt);
[3] Purchase what we can't pay cash for;
[4] Purchase major items that we have not thoroughly planned and saved for (Homes or Cars);
[5] Spend haphazardly (every dollar must be accounted for and have a destination).
END
As a non-profit organization, ALL of the funds that we generate are used for DEBT ELIMINATION and ANTI-FORECLOSURE purposes ONLY. We collect money and use that money to eliminate DEBT; slowly and legally repair the CREDIT of everyone we help; and acquire and pay off the properties of those facing FORECLOSURE. We also put all participants through a Money & Credit Management course; designed to keep them out of debt and teach them how to budget their money, live within their means, and spend using cash ONLY. ALL participants must cut their credit cards and close all open lines of credit.
The REVOLUTION involves embracing a NEW and better way of viewing PERSONAL FINANCE and CREDIT! We will NOT:
[1] Live on CREDIT;
[2] Live in DEBT (or by a code of perpetual debt);
[3] Purchase what we can't pay cash for;
[4] Purchase major items that we have not thoroughly planned and saved for (Homes or Cars);
[5] Spend haphazardly (every dollar must be accounted for and have a destination).
END
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
REDD'S Journal: A Day In The Life Mon July 2, 2012
Today was a great day! It started a bit slow, but then it began to build and ended on a high note. I woke up thinking about the heat of the day and the things I wanted to accomplish. Somehow, I did NONE of the things I originally planned; but I did get something accomplished.
I woke up to a movie playing on HBO; since I fell asleep in the living room, with the television on. I didn't pay attention to the movie; so I don't remember which movie was being showcased. The sound somehow alerted me that it was time to get up. I turned the volume down and logged onto my computer. I read a few articles; my normal routine. Then my buddy AARON FRANK called. He was bored so he wanted to come hang out. But, he made it to my place and crashed on the sofa. He slept for an hour. That isn't unusual; most people who come to my place are hypnotized by that sofa.
AARON FRANK slept, so I showered and got dressed. We made our way to Publix to purchase fruit and water for this fitness journey we vowed to embark on. From there, we decided to go hang out at 'Starbuck's.' Four hours and a few Facebook posts later, we ventured over to 'Thai Lana' and enjoyed one of my favorite Thai restaurants in the southern region of this great country of ours. Thai food consumed; and back to home base I returned. I spent the remaining hours of the night watching television, updating my new page on Facebook [THE R.E.D.D. REVOLUTION], and completing my
Sunday, July 1, 2012
REDD'S Voice on P90X
I love P90X; and I will scream it from every mountain top! I love the overall program and I love the fact that it's for those with a College mentality. By that, I mean: When we were in Elementary, Middle School, and High School, people checked our homework and grades. We were held accountable for punctuality and the production of projects as well as preparation for exams. But, for those of us who went to college, we were left on our own. College pushes us to become ADULTS. Nobody is there to hold our hands. It's up to us to go to class; prepare for exams; and write our term papers and hand them in on time. P90X is the same way. As an ADULT, it's up to you to turn on the DVD player or computer and do the work. It's up to you - as an ADULT - to exhibit some discipline and persevere to the end of each workout [and to the end of the program]. If it doesn't work for you; it probably doesn't work because you didn't make the effort.
A new P90X session begins for my friends and I tomorrow [Monday July 2, 2012]. This time around, I'll have a one-on-one accountability partner. This will push ME to do even more and work harder than I've worked in the past. As a former Fitness Trainer [and Martial Artists], this is right up my alley.
I love the challenge of P90X! I'm a big nerd. So, I challenge my mind more than I challenge my body; especially since I'm no longer a Fitness Trainer or a Martial Artist. Also, I need to get back to peak conditioning. I lost a lot of my balance and coordination after having two (2) cerebellar strokes Friday June 17, 2011! My recovery has been called "miraculous." But, in reality [you know I like to be realistic], immediately after the first stroke I dialed 911 and unlocked the doors of my apartment. A few moments later, the second stroke gripped me. My quick reaction was what helped me to make a speedy [and as some like to say "miraculous"] recovery. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely believe in miracles and the miraculous. But, I have to balance out the miraculous with human effort and quick thinking; in my case. I have a tiny hole in my heart that I knew NOTHING about. Blood clots in my body were able to pass through the hole and up to my brain. That's why I had the strokes. Thankfully, this Summer, I will finally have the hole sealed. Due, in part, to modern technology; by way of a non-invasive procedure that will be performed. I refused to have my ribs cracked and chest opened to close the hole. I think this fairly new procedure - with its 98% rate of success - falls into the realm of the miraculous. So we'll put a gold star next to that one for bona fide MIRACLE!
I'm ready to begin this journey again. I also hope that this post motivates someone else to start their quest down the path to getting into the best shape of their life. P90X is NO JOKE! But it will, literally, change your life; and your body [externally AND internally].
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
REDD'S Voice on Male Grooming
BLACK SOAP is part of the
traditional HAMMAM [TURKISH BATH] ritual. It is the first treatment in oriental public
bath. With a texture of butter, this natural vegetable paste based (with
black olives) is rich in vitamin E. It is obtained from a mixture of oil
and crushed olives; soaked in salt and potash. In the nineteenth century
it was used as a product of Dermatology, and later became a real beauty
tool for the body; suitable for every type of skin. It prepares the skin
for exfoliation. The skin will be softer and ready for a scrub. Combined
with the action of the Kessa glove [specialized exfoliating glove], it will remove impurities and dead
skin. Thanks to its exfoliating and moisturizing, it softens and
nourishes the skin. It does not foam, but becomes creamy when you add
water.
REDD'S Voice on Dealing With REALITY
This is my first blog post and I wanted to get right to the heart of my philosophy.
I think that people - especially in AMERICA - avoid dealing with
REALITY! We tend to present ourselves and someone other than who we
really are; and let's face it, we're trained and or programmed to do so.
When you interview for a job, you put on your nicest clothes and "sell"
yourself. It often leads people to pass off a figment of their
imagination [a representative] as the person they think the employer
wants them to be in order to get the job. So, we live our lives thinking
that this practice is the norm; that it's perfectly fine.
Then, we go out on dates and we do the SAME thing. We try to "sell" ourselves to the person we're out with, in hopes of getting this person to really like us. But we're really offering a totally DIFFERENT person for our date to get into. It's NOT reality. Yet, we've come to grips with living in this space between reality and a blatant lie. When do we deal with reality?
A lot of my peers think that I'm some sort of revolutionary; because I talk about all the subjects that they regard as taboo [politics, religion, money, sexuality and sex, HIV/AIDS, other preventable diseases, personal grooming, psychology & counseling, etc.]. Why these subjects are "taboo" in a liberal, liberated country like the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is a mystery to me. But these issues need to be addressed; and I'll continue to address them.
People who live in reality and deal with reality don't allow any issues or subject matter to fall into the category of TABOO! Nothing is off limits. But, we do address or discuss all subject matter tactfully; because BEING REAL doesn't have to equate to BEING RUDE! Some people get the two concepts confused because they both begin with the letter *R,* I guess!
Now that you have been introduced to REDD, and not REDD'S representative, we can begin our journey with honesty and integrity. I hope to add something positive to your life. I hope to gain something from those of you who will (hopefully) write to me and share your feelings, questions, suggestions, and random ideas or ideologies. Remember that NOTHING is off limits. I will do my very best to express myself honestly, openly, tactfully, and in a way that is simple, to the point, and easy to comprehend; so we can learn and grow. I'll be back to terrorize your mind and emotions!
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
Then, we go out on dates and we do the SAME thing. We try to "sell" ourselves to the person we're out with, in hopes of getting this person to really like us. But we're really offering a totally DIFFERENT person for our date to get into. It's NOT reality. Yet, we've come to grips with living in this space between reality and a blatant lie. When do we deal with reality?
A lot of my peers think that I'm some sort of revolutionary; because I talk about all the subjects that they regard as taboo [politics, religion, money, sexuality and sex, HIV/AIDS, other preventable diseases, personal grooming, psychology & counseling, etc.]. Why these subjects are "taboo" in a liberal, liberated country like the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is a mystery to me. But these issues need to be addressed; and I'll continue to address them.
People who live in reality and deal with reality don't allow any issues or subject matter to fall into the category of TABOO! Nothing is off limits. But, we do address or discuss all subject matter tactfully; because BEING REAL doesn't have to equate to BEING RUDE! Some people get the two concepts confused because they both begin with the letter *R,* I guess!
Now that you have been introduced to REDD, and not REDD'S representative, we can begin our journey with honesty and integrity. I hope to add something positive to your life. I hope to gain something from those of you who will (hopefully) write to me and share your feelings, questions, suggestions, and random ideas or ideologies. Remember that NOTHING is off limits. I will do my very best to express myself honestly, openly, tactfully, and in a way that is simple, to the point, and easy to comprehend; so we can learn and grow. I'll be back to terrorize your mind and emotions!
"From my lips to your soul!"
Peace and love...
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