Wednesday, September 1, 2010
The Liberation of Rejection
"Dear to us are those who love us... but dearer are those who reject us
It's just time. No, actually it's past time. The steps have become a little too routine, the conversations extremely monotonous and the drive is slowly leaving my body like mist. And ever so often, I get excited about the possibility of a new project, a new direction. Hell, I get excited when a new person comes into the department.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
It Couldn't Be Me...
THE YOUNG PROFESSIONAL ADVOCATE - 04.29.10
It couldn’t be me...
Last week I had the opportunity to view “The Farm: 10 Down,” a poignant documentary about maximum security Angola Prison in Louisiana. The film revisits the surviving subjects of the Emmy-winning documentary, “The Farm.”
It provided me with an education about the prison system that I didn’t know that I needed. Growing up in Louisiana, I’ve always known that was the place where people went for a very long time. I didn’t realize that most of the residents of Angola are long-timers.
The film provided an interesting perspective on what happens after we throw away the key. And with so many prisoner re-entry programs focused on rehabilitating them after release, I thought we should know about what rehabilitation looks like on the inside of Angola.
View the Young Professional Advocate 04.29.10
It couldn’t be me...
Last week I had the opportunity to view “The Farm: 10 Down,” a poignant documentary about maximum security Angola Prison in Louisiana. The film revisits the surviving subjects of the Emmy-winning documentary, “The Farm.”
It provided me with an education about the prison system that I didn’t know that I needed. Growing up in Louisiana, I’ve always known that was the place where people went for a very long time. I didn’t realize that most of the residents of Angola are long-timers.
The film provided an interesting perspective on what happens after we throw away the key. And with so many prisoner re-entry programs focused on rehabilitating them after release, I thought we should know about what rehabilitation looks like on the inside of Angola.
View the Young Professional Advocate 04.29.10
Remembering Dr. Dorothy Height - republished from the Young Professional Advocate 04/21
Today’s announcement about the loss of “drum major for justice” Dr. Dorothy Height caused me to pause. More than any other icon of civil rights, her passing is very personal to me. As an aspiring woman of influence, I recognize her legacy as nothing short of a phenomenon.
Supporting so many in the truest sense of the female spirit of nurture, yet demanding so much of men and women alike. She was there at every stage of what we now call “the civil rights movement” with scores of unsung women who supported the movement. In my imagination, I can see her being present, yet not always heard or heeded; her quiet courage and patience sitting in rooms that were closed to most women but her; and the moral fortitude needed to stand on her principles.
And yet she persisted, yet she was resilient and brilliant and accommodating. And on more than one occasion, she made time to speak to me when she knew nothing about me. Looking into my eyes as if I were one of the people she was there to see. So as I walk into rooms where men are sometimes more concerned about my appearance than my intellect and I make contributions that are sometimes unrecognized, I think of Dr. Height. Her name was never mentioned in my history book but her impact was felt. Dr. Height said, “If you worry about who is going to get credit, you don’t get much work done.” This mantra enabled her to influence countless initiatives and organizations that have supported our country.
So one question for you:
What change will you inspire to honor her legacy?
And one for me:
Isn’t it wonderful to have an idea worthy of your concern over who might get the credit?
Thank you Dr. Height for your legacy!
Dr. Dorothy I. Height (1912 – 2010)
Activist, Social Worker President, National Congress of Negro Women
She said: “We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for and with those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity..”
Supporting so many in the truest sense of the female spirit of nurture, yet demanding so much of men and women alike. She was there at every stage of what we now call “the civil rights movement” with scores of unsung women who supported the movement. In my imagination, I can see her being present, yet not always heard or heeded; her quiet courage and patience sitting in rooms that were closed to most women but her; and the moral fortitude needed to stand on her principles.
And yet she persisted, yet she was resilient and brilliant and accommodating. And on more than one occasion, she made time to speak to me when she knew nothing about me. Looking into my eyes as if I were one of the people she was there to see. So as I walk into rooms where men are sometimes more concerned about my appearance than my intellect and I make contributions that are sometimes unrecognized, I think of Dr. Height. Her name was never mentioned in my history book but her impact was felt. Dr. Height said, “If you worry about who is going to get credit, you don’t get much work done.” This mantra enabled her to influence countless initiatives and organizations that have supported our country.
So one question for you:
What change will you inspire to honor her legacy?
And one for me:
Isn’t it wonderful to have an idea worthy of your concern over who might get the credit?
Thank you Dr. Height for your legacy!
Dr. Dorothy I. Height (1912 – 2010)
Activist, Social Worker President, National Congress of Negro Women
She said: “We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for and with those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity..”
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Today is Earth Day! - Green Grass Generation Begins
If you’ve ever attended a meeting with a group of young professionals, you will know that the energy can be exhilarating. Focused or not, there’s a kinetic possibility in the air that is hard to ignore. Corralling that energy into a plan is an art form, but when executed effectively can produce solid results.
When I started highlighting policy issues for young professionals, it was with the goal of targeting that energy on issues that would ultimately change our planet. Grass roots strategies to energize the communities, organizations and businesses that we serve. And it’s time to get to work.
Get involved in our 2010 young professional focus area, sustainability by focusing your energy on the Green Grass Generation!
When I started highlighting policy issues for young professionals, it was with the goal of targeting that energy on issues that would ultimately change our planet. Grass roots strategies to energize the communities, organizations and businesses that we serve. And it’s time to get to work.
Get involved in our 2010 young professional focus area, sustainability by focusing your energy on the Green Grass Generation!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Diversity and African American History Month
We've assembled a team of approximately 10 coworkers of various cultures to participate in planning our 1st department-wide African American History observance later this month. What does your organization do for African American History Month? Are you starting new traditions this year?
Monday, January 18, 2010
My Daughter: An Endangered Species
My daughter shared with me at the dinner table that “It’s like being an endangered species being one of two democrats in the room. Everybody’s lashing out at each other.”
She was talking about her English class, where one of her fellow students remarked that, “the only reason Barack Obama got elected was because the country wanted to make history.” His remark stemmed from a candid discussion about Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream Speech. When I asked what her response was, she said she just didn’t feel like responding.
After listening to the speech, their assignment was to write down 3 dreams of their own. My daughter’s dream was that everyone be able to express their views openly. As I think about my childhood and imagine my parents’ through stories shared with me, I wonder why she must still shoot for that dream. And while we have enjoyed freedom of speech since 1791, why is it still not equitable?
We live in a world where the loudest, most powerful voices or even the majority of people in the room often overwhelm and conquer the others. We live in a world where the best ideas are often overlooked in favor of those that spring from wealth, power and the ability to speak into a live microphone.
But, I still dream.
I dream that motherless children from Haiti speak loudly through their photographs, that the peaceful calm voices of Gandhi, Mandela, Chavez and King resonate and persist through new voices, that my persistent emails and blogs promote thought, and that my daughter turns opposition into the opportunity to create cleverly-executed, verbal rebuttals.
As we celebrate Martin Luther King’s birthday today and a national day of service on Monday, find an opportunity to serve your community in a way that will help us to see dreams fulfilled in the lives of others.
She was talking about her English class, where one of her fellow students remarked that, “the only reason Barack Obama got elected was because the country wanted to make history.” His remark stemmed from a candid discussion about Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream Speech. When I asked what her response was, she said she just didn’t feel like responding.
After listening to the speech, their assignment was to write down 3 dreams of their own. My daughter’s dream was that everyone be able to express their views openly. As I think about my childhood and imagine my parents’ through stories shared with me, I wonder why she must still shoot for that dream. And while we have enjoyed freedom of speech since 1791, why is it still not equitable?
We live in a world where the loudest, most powerful voices or even the majority of people in the room often overwhelm and conquer the others. We live in a world where the best ideas are often overlooked in favor of those that spring from wealth, power and the ability to speak into a live microphone.
But, I still dream.
I dream that motherless children from Haiti speak loudly through their photographs, that the peaceful calm voices of Gandhi, Mandela, Chavez and King resonate and persist through new voices, that my persistent emails and blogs promote thought, and that my daughter turns opposition into the opportunity to create cleverly-executed, verbal rebuttals.
As we celebrate Martin Luther King’s birthday today and a national day of service on Monday, find an opportunity to serve your community in a way that will help us to see dreams fulfilled in the lives of others.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Haiti Update - Urban League of Palm Beach County mobilizes
Urban League of Palm Beach County
Working with state and local officials in Florida to provide needed items to those in Haiti
You can donate the following items:
1) Money
2) Blankets
3) Dry rice and beans
4) Baby supplies
5) Shoes
Send Donations to Urban League 1700 N. Australian Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Contact
Graylen Houston
ULYP of Palm Beach County
561-215-5078
graylenhouston@yahoo.com
Working with state and local officials in Florida to provide needed items to those in Haiti
You can donate the following items:
1) Money
2) Blankets
3) Dry rice and beans
4) Baby supplies
5) Shoes
Send Donations to Urban League 1700 N. Australian Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Contact
Graylen Houston
ULYP of Palm Beach County
561-215-5078
graylenhouston@yahoo.com
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
The Crisis in Haiti…what will the response be?
The Crisis in Haiti…what will the response be?
I awoke to a picture of a young child surrounded by rubble in the aftermath of yesterday’s earthquake in Haiti. She looked so much like the daughter of a friend of mine. Her no doubt once shining face, covered in concrete dust.
I heard about this tragedy on the way home from work yesterday and by this morning heard that the President had committed to aid for Haiti. I also saw a sound byte from Department of State head, Hillary Clinton speaking of the tragedy.
But following the disasters that we’ve seen over the past 10 years…911…Hurricane Katrina…the Tsunami and the varying levels of support and response given, I wonder what will happen this time. And to be honest, I’m cynical about the global response to a country of people of color. I heard a lady asking for help from the United States and wondered if we would really deliver, in a way that would really help her.
So my prayers and support will be with the people of Haiti and I’ve compiled some resources that may help you make a difference in that region.
Wyclef’s Video on CNN
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/world/2010/01/12/bpr.wyclef.jean.haiti.cnn
Wyclef’s Blog
http://wyclefjean.wordpress.com/2010/01/13/statement-by-wyclef-jean-on-haiti-earthquake/
Way to Give through Wyclef’s Foundation
Wyclef Jean, a rapper and hip hop artist from Haiti, urged people to text "Yele" to 501501 to donate $5 toward earthquake relief.
WFAA Channel 8’s Giving Recommendations
• The American Red Cross: www.redcross.org
• UNICEF: www.unicef.org or call 1-800-4UNICEF
• Operation USA: www.opusa.org
I awoke to a picture of a young child surrounded by rubble in the aftermath of yesterday’s earthquake in Haiti. She looked so much like the daughter of a friend of mine. Her no doubt once shining face, covered in concrete dust.
I heard about this tragedy on the way home from work yesterday and by this morning heard that the President had committed to aid for Haiti. I also saw a sound byte from Department of State head, Hillary Clinton speaking of the tragedy.
But following the disasters that we’ve seen over the past 10 years…911…Hurricane Katrina…the Tsunami and the varying levels of support and response given, I wonder what will happen this time. And to be honest, I’m cynical about the global response to a country of people of color. I heard a lady asking for help from the United States and wondered if we would really deliver, in a way that would really help her.
So my prayers and support will be with the people of Haiti and I’ve compiled some resources that may help you make a difference in that region.
Wyclef’s Video on CNN
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/world/2010/01/12/bpr.wyclef.jean.haiti.cnn
Wyclef’s Blog
http://wyclefjean.wordpress.com/2010/01/13/statement-by-wyclef-jean-on-haiti-earthquake/
Way to Give through Wyclef’s Foundation
Wyclef Jean, a rapper and hip hop artist from Haiti, urged people to text "Yele" to 501501 to donate $5 toward earthquake relief.
WFAA Channel 8’s Giving Recommendations
• The American Red Cross: www.redcross.org
• UNICEF: www.unicef.org or call 1-800-4UNICEF
• Operation USA: www.opusa.org
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Senator Reid did not use the brown paper bag…
Senator Reid did not use the brown paper bag…
In southern Louisiana, as I am told through family stories, a paper bag was used to determine entrance into some of the most exclusive events of the black bourgeoisie. Lighter than the bag, you were allowed in. Darker, you were left out.
Unwittingly, Senator Harry Reid placed me back there mentally with the recent publication of his remarks…wondering why anyone would care to make that distinction between shades of melanin. Without casting judgment on those who fall pretty to making “occasional” untoward comments, how can we remedy the problem of categorizing people based on color (or shades thereof)?
I’m not giving Harry Reid a pass, but I have not heard him make such comments as he addressed the National Urban League Legislative Policy conference or while working with his rather “chocolate” senior aide.
My recommendation for politicians has been sensitivity training. But who is going to train the countless African-Americans who made determinations about then Senator Obama’s ability to run based on all manner of stereotypical traits. I don’t even have to say them, because the phrases are popping up in your head as you recall sitting around the TV watching CNN and wondering if he could actually beat Hillary (or anyone else for that matter).
Let's start with a dialogue with your friends, family and in your groups. Yes, break away from the TV and discuss it. Talk to the person sitting next to you at work, or the person ringing up your groceries. It all starts with you.
And besides President Obama is okay with it. ;)
In southern Louisiana, as I am told through family stories, a paper bag was used to determine entrance into some of the most exclusive events of the black bourgeoisie. Lighter than the bag, you were allowed in. Darker, you were left out.
Unwittingly, Senator Harry Reid placed me back there mentally with the recent publication of his remarks…wondering why anyone would care to make that distinction between shades of melanin. Without casting judgment on those who fall pretty to making “occasional” untoward comments, how can we remedy the problem of categorizing people based on color (or shades thereof)?
I’m not giving Harry Reid a pass, but I have not heard him make such comments as he addressed the National Urban League Legislative Policy conference or while working with his rather “chocolate” senior aide.
My recommendation for politicians has been sensitivity training. But who is going to train the countless African-Americans who made determinations about then Senator Obama’s ability to run based on all manner of stereotypical traits. I don’t even have to say them, because the phrases are popping up in your head as you recall sitting around the TV watching CNN and wondering if he could actually beat Hillary (or anyone else for that matter).
Let's start with a dialogue with your friends, family and in your groups. Yes, break away from the TV and discuss it. Talk to the person sitting next to you at work, or the person ringing up your groceries. It all starts with you.
And besides President Obama is okay with it. ;)
Monday, January 11, 2010
Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire
Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire
Have you ever been accused of something that you didn’t do by someone who has an interest in your failure? Or have you just flat out been sabotaged by a co-worker who wants to win?
Some of you may say, what planet are you on, that is so elementary school or high school at best. But it appears that the high schoolers who lied about you have grown up, entered the work place and are at it again. Unlike the silly stuff they used to do…lying and saying your hair was cute when it was sticking out in the back, or lying about their intention to run for homecoming queen, they are now lying about things that really matter.
So, beware of the liar who tells your boss that you messed up the work assignment when you really didn’t and the boss who doesn’t know the report well enough to know that they are lying.
Do people lie at your job? What do they lie about? Share your experiences.
Have you ever been accused of something that you didn’t do by someone who has an interest in your failure? Or have you just flat out been sabotaged by a co-worker who wants to win?
Some of you may say, what planet are you on, that is so elementary school or high school at best. But it appears that the high schoolers who lied about you have grown up, entered the work place and are at it again. Unlike the silly stuff they used to do…lying and saying your hair was cute when it was sticking out in the back, or lying about their intention to run for homecoming queen, they are now lying about things that really matter.
So, beware of the liar who tells your boss that you messed up the work assignment when you really didn’t and the boss who doesn’t know the report well enough to know that they are lying.
Do people lie at your job? What do they lie about? Share your experiences.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Are You Serious?!
Are you serious?
I just heard the clear eyes guy, you know the one on the “Clear Eyes” commercial; complain that President Obama held a press conference to offer his response to the attempted Christmas terrorist attack in a polo shirt. He was completely irritated that the President did not take the time to put on a suit and tie to address the nation and suggested that he shouldn’t be in Hawaii at all.
Now, I distinctly remember commenting to friends and family that President Bush was always on vacation in Crawford, TX or at Camp David. So I find it very interesting that one 11-day vacation in Hawaii that was filled with updates and calls from Washington is being used to criticize the President.
Just in case you don’t remember, here are some quotes:
"President Bush is beating the August heat the same way he always does -- with a vacation on his ranch in Texas. He got there yesterday. This will be his shortest vacation since he's taken office. Usually he takes a full month, this time around because of the wars and everything, only ten days. I guess he's saving up the personal days so he can skip the last three months of his presidency." --Jimmy Kimmel
"As you know, President Bush is taking 5 weeks off. It's like he's still in the National Guard." --Jay Leno
"President Bush is on a five-week vacation. How many folks get five weeks off a year? You know, if I want five weeks off I have to have open heart surgery, for God's sake." --David Letterman
"The president jumped on a plane to start a five-week vacation. This will be the longest presidential vacation in 36 years. This means President Bush has now been on vacation for 27% of his presidency. That means the country could be 27% more screwed up than it already is." --Jimmy Kimmel
And just in case you need a news story:
487 Days at Camp David for Bush
Posted by Brian Montopoli
(AP Photo/Lawrence Jackson)
George W. Bush is today making his final visit to Camp David as president.
He will likely miss the place: According to CBS News White House Correspondent Mark Knoller, today's trip marks Mr. Bush's 149th visit to the presidential retreat. The planned three-day stay, during which the president is being joined by family and former and current aides, will bring his total time spent at Camp David to all or part of 487 days.
Yes, that's 487 days. And Camp David is not even where the president has spent the most time when not at the White House: Knoller reports that Mr. Bush has made 77 visits to his ranch in Crawford during his presidency, and spent all or part of 490 days there.
I just heard the clear eyes guy, you know the one on the “Clear Eyes” commercial; complain that President Obama held a press conference to offer his response to the attempted Christmas terrorist attack in a polo shirt. He was completely irritated that the President did not take the time to put on a suit and tie to address the nation and suggested that he shouldn’t be in Hawaii at all.
Now, I distinctly remember commenting to friends and family that President Bush was always on vacation in Crawford, TX or at Camp David. So I find it very interesting that one 11-day vacation in Hawaii that was filled with updates and calls from Washington is being used to criticize the President.
Just in case you don’t remember, here are some quotes:
"President Bush is beating the August heat the same way he always does -- with a vacation on his ranch in Texas. He got there yesterday. This will be his shortest vacation since he's taken office. Usually he takes a full month, this time around because of the wars and everything, only ten days. I guess he's saving up the personal days so he can skip the last three months of his presidency." --Jimmy Kimmel
"As you know, President Bush is taking 5 weeks off. It's like he's still in the National Guard." --Jay Leno
"President Bush is on a five-week vacation. How many folks get five weeks off a year? You know, if I want five weeks off I have to have open heart surgery, for God's sake." --David Letterman
"The president jumped on a plane to start a five-week vacation. This will be the longest presidential vacation in 36 years. This means President Bush has now been on vacation for 27% of his presidency. That means the country could be 27% more screwed up than it already is." --Jimmy Kimmel
And just in case you need a news story:
487 Days at Camp David for Bush
Posted by Brian Montopoli
(AP Photo/Lawrence Jackson)
George W. Bush is today making his final visit to Camp David as president.
He will likely miss the place: According to CBS News White House Correspondent Mark Knoller, today's trip marks Mr. Bush's 149th visit to the presidential retreat. The planned three-day stay, during which the president is being joined by family and former and current aides, will bring his total time spent at Camp David to all or part of 487 days.
Yes, that's 487 days. And Camp David is not even where the president has spent the most time when not at the White House: Knoller reports that Mr. Bush has made 77 visits to his ranch in Crawford during his presidency, and spent all or part of 490 days there.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Changing the Bureaucratic Culture
Changing the Bureaucratic Culture
My boss has been (about 30 levels removed) has been criticized for her response after the attempted bomb detonation on a flight to Detroit. I am thrilled that this attempt was stopped and that we are not now discussing the tragic loss of the passengers of that plane.
If my memory serves me correctly, Napolitano has been serving in her current post for less time than President Obama (since he appointed her after his swearing in). And unfortunately she is working within a federal government environment where change is slow and where it is sometimes difficult to pin-point exactly where the buck stops. Did the breakdown in communication between departments come from the typical federal knowledge hoarding that ensures top-dog status? Or did it stem from the lack of funding for the comprehensive database and equipment necessary to share information across platforms? Or it could be some other breakdown that cannot be pin-pointed exactly?
Whatever the cause, I doubt that the problem solely rests on the leader who recently took the helm. The problem may stem from the lack of open communication from secretary to the top levels of management and the lack of accountability across the entire organization. These failures should point us to how to better manage the bureaucracy to excellence, to create a government environment that rivals our best corporations. If we stop looking for scapegoats, we may be able to fix a system that is in desperate need of repair.
My boss has been (about 30 levels removed) has been criticized for her response after the attempted bomb detonation on a flight to Detroit. I am thrilled that this attempt was stopped and that we are not now discussing the tragic loss of the passengers of that plane.
If my memory serves me correctly, Napolitano has been serving in her current post for less time than President Obama (since he appointed her after his swearing in). And unfortunately she is working within a federal government environment where change is slow and where it is sometimes difficult to pin-point exactly where the buck stops. Did the breakdown in communication between departments come from the typical federal knowledge hoarding that ensures top-dog status? Or did it stem from the lack of funding for the comprehensive database and equipment necessary to share information across platforms? Or it could be some other breakdown that cannot be pin-pointed exactly?
Whatever the cause, I doubt that the problem solely rests on the leader who recently took the helm. The problem may stem from the lack of open communication from secretary to the top levels of management and the lack of accountability across the entire organization. These failures should point us to how to better manage the bureaucracy to excellence, to create a government environment that rivals our best corporations. If we stop looking for scapegoats, we may be able to fix a system that is in desperate need of repair.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Epiphany
Epiphany
While it is the name of the newest Chrisette Michelle album and no-doubt the name of countless trendy clubs across the country, mine was the normal kind. That SAT word that many people don’t strive to understand, as long as they don’t have to use it, came to me as I asked myself some pointed questions.
What is this blog really supposed to be about?
Who am I trying to help?
How will it profit me?
Fortunately the first two questions were relatively easy. The blog is about young professionals, and is trying to help you (young professionals or those striving to understand this demographic). But benefiting me has been a rough spot, because I’m really not wired that way.
So I deduced that the best way to profit me would be to ensure that this blog would be able to be an honest outlet, a place where I can rid myself of those things that I dare not say to any and everyone. In that way, by helping to preserve my sanity, this blog would be hugely profitable.
So on this day of the real Epiphany, the Christian festival, observed on January 6th to commemorate the manifestation of Christ to the gentiles, I offer my epiphany…my sudden, intuitive perception of the essential meaning of this Young Professional Advocate blog. I vow to share my consistent revelations with you. :)
While it is the name of the newest Chrisette Michelle album and no-doubt the name of countless trendy clubs across the country, mine was the normal kind. That SAT word that many people don’t strive to understand, as long as they don’t have to use it, came to me as I asked myself some pointed questions.
What is this blog really supposed to be about?
Who am I trying to help?
How will it profit me?
Fortunately the first two questions were relatively easy. The blog is about young professionals, and is trying to help you (young professionals or those striving to understand this demographic). But benefiting me has been a rough spot, because I’m really not wired that way.
So I deduced that the best way to profit me would be to ensure that this blog would be able to be an honest outlet, a place where I can rid myself of those things that I dare not say to any and everyone. In that way, by helping to preserve my sanity, this blog would be hugely profitable.
So on this day of the real Epiphany, the Christian festival, observed on January 6th to commemorate the manifestation of Christ to the gentiles, I offer my epiphany…my sudden, intuitive perception of the essential meaning of this Young Professional Advocate blog. I vow to share my consistent revelations with you. :)
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Still Fans
Still Fans
I never understood how or why my mother would get excited about Al Green or Marvin Gaye after all of these years. In fact I thought it was kind of funny to see her dancing in the living room as we cleaned the house to Love and Happiness. I knew that I wasn’t feeling the love and I definitely wasn’t happy watching her dance while I cleaned. But on the day after Christmas, I figured it out.
Accompanied by my good friend Tisha, I went o the Boyz II Men concert. As soon as I caught a glimpse of them near the stairs to mount the stage, I started yelling and jumping up and down almost uncontrollably. It was an automatic response; I don’t even know how or why it happened. And I really don’t know how I went running up to the front of the stage with Tisha to audition for a rose. You know that we audition for a rose, either trying to look cute or batting our eyelashes, screaming or just jumping up and down.
My successful audition resulted in Wanye presenting the rose to me over the heads of four or five jumpers and countless eye-lash batters. Time stopped and I ran back to my seat to avoid the crowd. So yes Mom, I now understand that those groups that you loved as a youth, forever remain the groups of your youth.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
All Before 10 am...
Today the Starbuck’s lady outdid herself on my venti soy chai. I mean really there is an art to making a hot, frothy beverage.
And, Prince’s “Purple Rain” was playing this morning.
I sent Tom Joyner a text message about his craziness this morning.
Ralph Hall, my non-answering congressman, received a call from me. (He might get one at lunch, too!)
And this morning, I forwarded a name for a board position.
The more I do, the less I think about what’s going on with me. The more I do, the more I feel purpose in my life. And the earlier in the morning it begins, means I’m like the army or something!
So, if anyone needed a pick me up this morning, this is my feeble attempt to lead by example. J
And, Prince’s “Purple Rain” was playing this morning.
I sent Tom Joyner a text message about his craziness this morning.
Ralph Hall, my non-answering congressman, received a call from me. (He might get one at lunch, too!)
And this morning, I forwarded a name for a board position.
The more I do, the less I think about what’s going on with me. The more I do, the more I feel purpose in my life. And the earlier in the morning it begins, means I’m like the army or something!
So, if anyone needed a pick me up this morning, this is my feeble attempt to lead by example. J
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Mayor’s Town Hall Meeting @ Southwest Center Mall
Monday, October 5th
Southwest Center Mall
6:30 pm
Get an understanding of the new developments at Southwest Center Mall and what plans are in place to revitalize that area.
City Representatives from Police, Fire, Water, Code Enforcement, Economic Development, Parks and Recreation and more will be available to answer questions and dialogue with you about what's going on in the city.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Politics in the Obama Age at UTD
On Thursday, September 24th, I was the guest of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Tau Xi Chapter for their Black Speak event at the University of Texas at Dallas. This year's event was subtitled Politics in the Obama Age, The Age of Change.
It was great to see young professional students so engaged in politics and how it affects their world. We discussed not only what Obama has done since his term began in January, but the difference between what he has sole control over and what he does not. We finally evolved into a discussion on what we must do to become engaged at this pivotal time in our political history.
We really have arrived at the "Obama" age where possibilities abound. The question is whether or not we are ready to take hold of those possibilities and leverage them for our good and that of our communities. I am still amazed at the number of people who are watching on the sidelines at such a pivotal time. There are too many issues not to pay attention.
However these young people are on the way to deeper awareness signified by their presence at Black Speak. You've all inspired me to provide more information. Thank you for the wonderful time and the return invite. It was a pleasure and an honor.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
After Being Called A Liar...Getting the Job Done
Like many others, I have sufficiently reviewed the comments made in last night's Presidential address. Miraculously, when I woke up this morning Joe Wilson is still an elected official with a vote representing some of the citizens of South Carolina. And President Obama must work with he and other legislators (some who stood up and others who sat down) to create a healthcare plan that works for Americans.
As leaders in the workplace, the community and our homes, we have all encountered someone who has been less than professional in their dealings with us. My question is then, how do we really move forward? Do we truly accept the apology of others and move on to get the job done?
Based on President Obama's comments and demeanor, it appears that he moved on almost as soon as the comment was made. In order to get the job done, we have to be able to put aside words in favor of concrete suggestions, ideas and solutions.
So let's use this as a growth experience. Share how you turned a disparaging comment or a lack of respect into a finished project.
As leaders in the workplace, the community and our homes, we have all encountered someone who has been less than professional in their dealings with us. My question is then, how do we really move forward? Do we truly accept the apology of others and move on to get the job done?
Based on President Obama's comments and demeanor, it appears that he moved on almost as soon as the comment was made. In order to get the job done, we have to be able to put aside words in favor of concrete suggestions, ideas and solutions.
So let's use this as a growth experience. Share how you turned a disparaging comment or a lack of respect into a finished project.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
President Obama's School Fire Side Chat
This evening's news headline included concerned parents ready to keep their kids out of school in order to prevent them from being exposed to politics. When did we decide that we no longer wanted our kids to be exposed to politics? They are exposed to us every day. Maybe, it was when the President decided to speak to students and encourage them to do well in school.
Since when did encouraging children to do well in school become a political issue. If President Obama came to my class (via television) to speak about the importance of achieving academically, I would listen. I would have listened to any President of the United States of America. In fact, the fireside chats weren't just for adults.
School districts have been given the choice to determine whether our children will see the message in school. Some who are concerned that they have not seen the message, or that parents may not approve are opting to post it online for later viewing. But the students who need encouragement the most, may not have a computer with which to watch.
Seriously, the "politics" of the situation prohibit the President from saying anything questionable. The "politics" do not however, keep individuals from questioning whether a man that speaks on our behalf to the leaders of the world, can craft a non-political message to our children.
Come on, give me a break!
If you have children, let your school district, board or school know that you trust our nation's President to speak to our children about education on September 8th.
Since when did encouraging children to do well in school become a political issue. If President Obama came to my class (via television) to speak about the importance of achieving academically, I would listen. I would have listened to any President of the United States of America. In fact, the fireside chats weren't just for adults.
School districts have been given the choice to determine whether our children will see the message in school. Some who are concerned that they have not seen the message, or that parents may not approve are opting to post it online for later viewing. But the students who need encouragement the most, may not have a computer with which to watch.
Seriously, the "politics" of the situation prohibit the President from saying anything questionable. The "politics" do not however, keep individuals from questioning whether a man that speaks on our behalf to the leaders of the world, can craft a non-political message to our children.
Come on, give me a break!
If you have children, let your school district, board or school know that you trust our nation's President to speak to our children about education on September 8th.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Definition of Professional
We are told that to be professional is to be appreciated by coworkers, lauded by managers and supported by the organizations that we support for pay. However, it is clear that not all organizations run as professionally as we would like. And that even the most well-trained organizations are only as professional as their corporate culture allows.
And what does professional mean? Is it using proper grammar to transmit an email or is it refraining from shouting across cubicles even when you can see the person right there?
professional - exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession.
Based on this definition, maybe you should begin by exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, businesslike manner. Then conform to the technical or ethical standards of your chosen profession. At some point your "professionalism" may have to conform to the standards of those around you.
And if you choose not to conform, you may be in for a very lonely journey.
What do you do when confronted with the choice of being your best or accommodating to your surroundings? I would love to know.
And what does professional mean? Is it using proper grammar to transmit an email or is it refraining from shouting across cubicles even when you can see the person right there?
professional - exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession.
Based on this definition, maybe you should begin by exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, businesslike manner. Then conform to the technical or ethical standards of your chosen profession. At some point your "professionalism" may have to conform to the standards of those around you.
And if you choose not to conform, you may be in for a very lonely journey.
What do you do when confronted with the choice of being your best or accommodating to your surroundings? I would love to know.
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