Moving on into 2024 -Spread Kindness and Love

 It's less than 12 hours left in my year of 2023.  I end it still alive, and able to open the door to the promises and hopes of 2024.  I have food to eat, somewhere to live, and am able to walk, talk, see, and think with relatively few problems.  There is limited stress in my life.  What stress there is I have voluntarily brought into my life.

I had no "major" earthly accomplishments in 2023 that come to mind. The decade that began with Covid has become calmer now in terms of medical pandemics.  Our world still seems to have an evil spirit pandemic that raises up in the actions of a few impacting the lives of many.  There are at least 2 wars going on around the world that are based on relatively few people making evil based human decisions.

What can we do?  In 2024 create and spread kindness and love.  That is the commandment that a man with a Godly connection challenged us with several thousands of years ago.  It's not always an easy task to accomplish.  But, let's give it a try.

Social Gossip Media - TD Jakes

 GNN is fully engaged.  Yes, the Gossip News Network is talking about various allegations regarding TD Jakes human behavior.

1.  What were you all expecting?  If I recall only Jesus Christ was a perfect man. Let's all look in the mirror.  Have all of our behaviors our entire life been pleasing to God?  If you idolized Jakes, why would you idolize another human being?

2.  If a person performs 100 acts in their life with 2 of those not being pleasing to God, do those 2 actions condemn the person for life?  Or does the body of work count?  98% good, 2 %  bad.  You do the math.

3,  Instead of idolizing people, inspire yourself to be and behave spiritually.  Practice behaving and doing acts of kindness.  Don't worry about the sinful actions of others.  Focus on yourself and making yourself a better person.

4.  Is TD Jakes paying your electric bill, water and sewer bill, mortgage, rent, buying you groceries every week, filling your car with gas every week?  If not then why are you worrying about him?  He can afford to have people around him to help him correct his behaviors?  Can you say the same?

5.  Get back to your life.  Focus your energy and time on you and your family.

The Miracle Maker - Jesus Christ

 As we celebrate the gift that God gave us, his son Jesus the Christ, let's pause and reflect on this God/Man named Jesus.

It is clear now that the miracle of feeding 40,000 to 50,000 using a few loaves of bread and a few fish, can now be explained clearly.  There is no doubt that from those two items, to feed thousands Jesus made some bread pudding and some catfish nuggets.  That's the type of foods you can stretch on a low budget.  Add to His resume'.  Jesus Christ, master Chef!

In today's era, what would Jesus diet be like?  Would Jesus be a vegetarian?  I can see that being a possibility.  You never read stories in the bible about Jesus going to BBQs, or grilling do you?  So, yes I can see Jesus starting His day after prayer with a fruit smoothie and some type of vegetarian dish.  And you know when Jesus stops in for lunch at the neighborhood eatery, at the sight of Him entering the restaurant, someone immediately says, "drop a 2 piece catfish, it's Jesus."

What kind of job would Jesus have today?  Definitely an Influencer.  Millions of followers of course.  The Jesus podcast would be unparallelled.  Subscribers would have to wait in line for a chance to hear an episode.  You can imagine some of the topics.  Such as "Do you really need to hit that joint?  Jesus says, get spiritually high instead!"

46 Years Ago - Evansville Aces basketball team and others perish in plane crash

 As I was preparing for an on alumni meeting tomorrow, there was something about the date that came to my mind.  December 13th.  Then I  remembered.  It was 46 years ago when I was still a college undergraduate student when the University of Evansville men's basketball team perished along with others taking a chartered flight to Nashville, Tennessee for a game the next day.  Human error was assigned the blame.  Some devices were not taken off the plane prior to taking off and the plane had been overloaded with luggage impacting how it could fly in an emergency.

It was the Aces first year playing in Division 1 basketball after a successful past 20 years in Division 2.  The team was youthful with at least 5 freshmen on the squad.  They also had a new coach who brought in ideas of a new fast break type offensive attack.  All that potential and the youthful lives of those players came to an end that night.

I did not hear about the tragedy until I turned on my TV the next day as I prepared to go to my internship job in Indianapolis, Indiana.  When on campus, I had been around several of the black players on the team.  It was difficult to accept that all of the players were gone.  The university and the parents were involved in a financial settlement based on lawsuits filed.  The amount of money the families were given seem today as being far less than the value of each person's life.  It was not meant for those individuals to have a long life.  It's unfortunate, but it is the reality of life.  Nothing is promised.  For any of the family alive today, we remain sorry for your loss.

The Sadness of the Season - Pay something positive forward - Make Some Good News

 I was in line at a local grocery store.  A man in front of me had just gotten in line.  He had a red hoodie covering the top of his head, obscuring his face from the back.  I noticed the one item he was purchasing was a six pack of beer.  It was about 9 in the morning.  As he turned to pay his bill I noticed that he was a black gentleman.  He looked younger than me.  He at first glance reminded me of me, if life had taken the wrong turn in my life.

I thought it was sad that this culture and his life journey had gotten him to the point where purchasing a beer for breakfast was the beginning of his day.  I assumed it was his breakfast.  After I paid for my items I went outside to see where he had gone.  I think my intent was to talk to him.  I was praying silently to myself as I was headed outside.  When I got outside I saw him walking.  He was with another gentlemen and they were headed I assumed to his vehicle.

From that experience I think I will try to do a few deeds of kindness to others during this holiday season.  Maybe it will be motivation to do so throughout the year.  Pay it forward.  Make some good news.

Ecclesiastes - Deja Vu. Do some acts of kindness, while there is time to do so.

 It's the same as before, only a variation of a theme.  Another "active shooter" incident at a college in Nevada.  The term "active shooter" itself seems ridiculous.  Once the gunman stops shooting is he or she deemed an "inactive" shooter?  Just call it what it is.  A murderer on the loose.  Use all means to defend yourself or actively engage the shooter with the idea of ensuring they never harm anyone else again.  Then you hear that the shooter died from a self inflicted wound.  What was the point of hurting/killing innocent people?  Just so you can have your name added to the list of people who could not function in this world?

This world has seen all types of evil.  Some we may never know about, because their evil was never discovered.  Even now someone is being injured, held captive, or headed towards death because of the actions of someone else. 

The book of Ecclesiastes in the bible sums it up quite well.  We think what we are going through is new, but it has happened before.  In some cases the incidents were never recorded.  Through all the drama we have been through as human beings, you would think there would be a manual for us to be given at birth with a list of actions/thoughts that we must avoid as human beings.  But what happens?  No matter what we are told, or what we read about, we commit the same negative actions.  We do what we want regardless of the circumstances.

People talk about the coming of a new world war.  Well, what else is new?  The world has constantly been in a status where there is some type of conflict or war going on.  The reasons vary.  Greed, property disputes, religious disputes and of course just plain human arrogance and stupidity.

We are predictable in how much evil we can commit.  It's the kind actions.  The generosity and caring for each other that keeps the world from going into total chaos.  Just remember.  Mankind was wiped out before by our Creator.  Human life has already been identified to come to an end one day.  Wars, natural disasters, climate change.  It's all happened before.  We were not designed to exist forever.  Try to do as many acts of kindness and good while you are here.  Nothing else matters.

To Know the Details of My True Culture

 I watched a movie titled "Frybread Face and Me".  It featured the life of a modern Navajo family focused on the experiences of two Navajo youth, one male, one female.  One of the featured characters was the Navajo grandmother.  She only spoke the Navajo language as she had refused to learn how to speak English over her lifetime.

I thought to myself, it would be great to be able to learn about the culture of Native Americans.  It would be great to learn about the culture of my own African ancestors who I discovered through an African Ancestry DNA test are from what are now called in Africa the countries of Guinea-Bissau and Gabon.  The Balanta people of Guinea-Bissau and the Eshira and Eviya people of Gabon are whom my DNA connect to.  Beyond that connection, I do not know the traditions and culture of my ancestors.  I do not know their spiritual foundation.  I do not know how they lived day-to-day, or what they ate.

The reality is that I was educated on the culture of "America" which is based on the culture of European Americans.  My ancestors were forcefully brought to "America" to perform hard labor that European Americans were too lazy to do themselves.  That is a basic truth.  If that is not the truth of why Africans were brought to this country, then what is the truth?

I was recently having a part 1 spiritual discussion related to the relationships between men and women.  As I thought about the topic, I came to the conclusion that how I relate to a woman is based on the European American culture I grew up under in the United States of America.  My thoughts and views of women is not based on my being educated by African ancestral values and traditions.  So, I truly am not able to respond to how to spiritually relate to a woman as my partner.

Why not?  Because the European American culture did not teach me how to approach a woman as a spiritual partner.  The European American culture taught me  humanistic traditions and roles a man and woman should display.  As a black man, I am doomed to failure in knowing how to treat a woman because I never was taught the spiritual values and traditions of my ancestors on that topic.

How can I get better?  First, I need to create a spiritual foundation working with a female partner.  We both have to work together to create the spiritual foundation we both want to start from.  We need to weed out all those humanistic actions and behaviors that create conflict and problems in male-female relationship.  We have to agree to reject those human cultural values that get in the way of our spirituality.

We have to face the reality that neither of us was given a spiritual guide to having a great male/female relationship.  I have never met anyone who has shown me that they have such a guide.  I have never met anyone who has had a perfect male/female relationship based on applying the values and culture of the country they live in.

Are you preparing a spiritual guide to give your descendants?  A spiritual guide that will guide them in a "successful" male/female relationship?  Human beings have been around for over 2,000 years.  Many lessons have been learned and maybe shared within families.  Still we struggle in relationships.

Maybe the answers do not even relate to my original culture?  Are we all just doomed to never being able to establish a spiritual foundation, because we never start from a spiritual foundation?  Can a person truly reprogram your humanity into a life where all your actions result from spiritual thinking?

52,465 views?

 My human curiosity had me check to see how many views my writings have had over the years.  Fifty Two thousand views is what the tracking system shows.  I have wondered if college or high school students have been "borrowing" from my writings to help them in their educational pursuits?  Have I contributed to some student achieving a passing grade in some high school, undergraduate, or graduate course?  If so, I hope my writings helped to inspire you to write your own words, rather than you just taking my material verbatim and putting it forth as being your thoughts.

I do hope that my writings have helped some people to think about issues and to formulate your personal viewpoints on a topic.  The views expressed were my own based on my experiences and what I have been taught or observed over the years.

I have noticed that sites tagged in foreign countries have been the locations where my writings have been viewed.  Again, I am not sure what that means.

Anyway, the goal of my writings is to put forth an opinion and to help us think about various issues. I have only received one or two comments to my writings.  If you are out there and have read my material, please let me know what your views are.  arnellHill520@gmail.com awaits your responses.

A Different Approach to Sharing the Word About Jesus

 I had a dialogue with several men on Saturday evening.  The conversation went well for about half an hour.  Then we got into discussing how to share our spirituality with others.  One of the men said that we had an obligation to tell someone that if they did not get Jesus in their life and repent, they would go to hell.  I and another gentleman felt that was a rather direct and somewhat harsh method to tell someone about Jesus.  We stressed that we would rather just dialogue with the other person and not tell that person they would go to hell if they did not change their lifestyle.  The "you will go to hell" person is a Deacon in a church, bible study leader, and was trained to think and speak the way he does. This after a life of not being a model citizen.  He is very sincere in his beliefs which is his right.  But me and the other man felt it was a somewhat rigid attitude to take towards someone else.  My thoughts were to just continue a dialog with the non believer and listen to what they have to say, and why they think the way they do.  I personally would rather take that approach. When the time was right, I would then bring up the "technical" aspects of giving your life to God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit.  Whatever I become in my spiritual walk, I do not ever want to become a "one way or the highway " Christian.

Immigration-The Source of the Problem is within the Countries People are Fleeing From

 There is an amazing fact to the immigration crisis.  Governor's of  some states are trying to pass on the responsibility of taking care of the immigrants to other states.  But, why are those Governors not focused on the conditions in those countries immigrants are fleeing? I have not heard one governor talk about the United States applying pressure to the governments where immigrants are coming from, or providing aid to those countries from whence the immigrants are coming!  There has been no talk about those countries taking actions to build up the foreign countries' housing and job infrastructure, or stopping any mistreatment of the citizens causing them to flee to the United States.  Their is no talk of providing aid to those countries, under specific conditions, so those countries can build affordable housing, and have clean water, food, and jobs, for their citizens.  Would that not be a better solution than giving the inhabitants of those countries the one choice of embarking on a dangerous journey to the United States?  

Instead politicians and their followers gripe and moan about all the immigrants and aliens coming into the United States.  Does the land where the immigrants are coming from contain poisonous soil and unbreathable air?  Are those countries unfit for human beings to live?  If not then what's the problem?  If the problems can be fixed in those countries, fix them.  Then the United States won't have to worry about trying to accommodate hundreds of thousands of people a year into the United States.  Governors will not have to expend state dollars to ship immigrants to another state.  Is that not the widely touted "win-win" scenario of legend?  

So, to the federal government, to the President, Vice President, and our dysfunctional Congress and Senate I ask you to answer the question.  Why are you not working with those countries where the immigrants are fleeing, or applying pressure to the governments of those countries to fix the conditions that are making their citizens flee from to the United States?  

In the Presidential debates that would be a topic I would like to hear the candidates talk about.  Having the countries of immigrants fix the conditions in those countries that are making their citizens flee to the United States.

TV Parental Guidlines Monitoring Board - Accountable to no one?

They're back and flexing their entertainment muscle all in our faces!   The TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board continues to oversee ratings of TV shows with an authoritative, take it or leave it attitude.  Despite glaring evidence that many TV shows are not accurately being rated, they march on as the public cannot scrutinize or question their decisions.

I recently sent in a comment that episode 7 of "Special Ops: Lioness" should have been give a descriptor of "S" for explicit sexual situations do to an extended same sex intimate scene between two females.  The episode was given a " TV-MA" rating with the descriptors of coarse language and violence.  There was no mention of the same sex sexual activity that would be thrust out at the public in a "surprise, surprise, gotcha fashion".  Of course the Monitoring Board, consisting of 18 representatives of the Entertainment industry, ranging from Hulu, CBS, and the Parent Teachers Association, did not respond to my complaint.  Why?  Because they have that arrogant "don't question us" attitude that the American public has come to tolerate.  Also, they really do not care what people think about their deliberations.  It's our industry and you should be privileged that we are creating trashy scenes in TV shows for you to watch!"

The issues are the same I have mentioned in the past 2 years. Bring more clarity to the ratings so viewers, like myself, who don't want to see certain depictions in their home will not waste time watching the shows.  A rating should be a warning label on the content of a show or movie.  The rating system is not accurate when it comes to scenes of intimate sexual activity.  Or modify the rating MA to include language that it may involve scenes of intimate sexual activities.  Is that asking too much?

Children and teenagers are already exposed to illicit materials via the internet.  Can we at least have more internal controls in the entertainment industry?

The Construction Business - A monopoly for White Males??

 I was walking by a construction site in the Wellen Park area of North Port, Florida.  It is a growing area, with homes priced $400,000.  At other construction sites that involved building homes, I had noticed work crews comprised of mostly Hispanic workers.  This site was different.  The construction work appeared to be focused on clearing the vacant land and laying drainage/sewage pipes and possible electrical connections.  But, at this site I noticed an absence of minority representation.  Several miles away there is a project involving the widening of a road.  A 6 mile 52 million dollar project.  At that site the only minority worker I saw was a black man given the task of holding a sign to stop and slow traffic.  There were no visible workers operating the machinery that requires specialized skills.

I photographed the name of the construction company doing the work at Wellen Park.  After locating a point of contact, I wrote them via email asking was there a path by which minorities could get a foot in the door with their company, Phillips and Jordan.  The company prides itself on being owned by a European American female.  The response I received was to receive email notifications of the job openings within the company.  But, most of the jobs involved foreman or jobs requiring specialized skills.  Only 1-3 involved entry level type positions.  I wrote them again last week, pointing out the high requirements of the open positions and asked again was there a program designed to allow minorities or other disadvantaged people to build a career for themselves in the construction business?  My point being that one opportunity could change the lives of a family that for generations been stuck in a cycle of poverty or hopelessness.  I have yet to receive a response to my second inquiry.

The construction business has long been monopolized by white males.  Drive to any construction site and observe who works there.  Note the European American flavor to the workers on site?  So why is this industry monopolized by European American workers?  Are black and other minorities excluded from getting a foot in the door on purpose?  If so, racism still does exist.

The News in 2023

Step back and evaluate the value and quality of items shown on the local or national news.  Ask yourself this question.  How did the information you were just shown via the news improve your life?  Did it educate you?  Did it inform you in a critical area important to the success of you and your family?  Did it inspire you to positive action?  Or was it just entertainment?

Realize that the stories presented to you were decided upon by a relatively small group of people.  That group decided that you would only be shown the stories they chose.  No one asked you what you wanted to see.  No one cares about what you need to see to improve your life.  A small group of people decide what you should value and what you should watch.  How does that make you feel?  Are you delighted by the stories shown to you on the evening news?  Don't you wonder what was left out from the selection?  What criteria are they going by to decide what stories you absolutely have to see on the news?

Most "news" stories will deal with violent acts by individuals.  The more individuals killed or injured the greater likelihood that the story will be presented first.  That is unless the subject(s) of the news story is about a group of people who do not have "favored" status.  The greater the public notoriety of the person, the greater the chance the "news" will feature them.

Try this.  When each news story comes up, write down the type of story it is.  Violence/murder could be one heading.  Shooting/death could be another heading.  If the story is about a person, write down what the person did to warrant the attention.  Keep that self log the entire week, then review it to identify if there is a consistent theme/trend as to what type of stories are pushed out at you.

How did all the stories you watch make you feel?  Sad? Disgusted? Scared? Angry?  Whatever you felt is what the small group of people who selected the stories want you to feel.  They seek to get an emotion from you.  Note that some news stations end the news with a "feel good" story.  It's likely the most positive story of the day.  Maybe the stories are rolled out that way so you leave watching the news with a positive attitude? It helps ensure you will return the next day to wade through all the violent stories to reach the positive story.  Your emotions are being played with in the manner the positive story is always last.

You need to expect more from the news you watch.  First, ask how are the stories chosen?  What is the criteria used to select the stories that make the cut?  Demand that the news be used to educate you on an issue.  Give you the chance to decide an issue based on hearing both sides of an issue presented on the news.  Contact the news stations to let them know which stories had no redeeming value.  What is the  value of telling you that someone has been shot and killed?

The news needs to tell us the following things: 1.  Is the water we drink safe.  2.  Is bad weather approaching your community?  3.  Is a criminal on the loose who presents danger to the public?  3.  Are there recalls on food or other items?  4.  Where are the traffic problems in the city?  5.  Is there a world event going on that may endanger our country?  6.  Is there a man made or natural crisis brewing that endangers the public?  7. Has a cure been found for some diseases or sickness?  Add any other category in your community that fits "a need to know".  Six to 8 items daily that we need to know about.  What follows after that is simply entertainment filler.  Stories designed to occupy the time and thoughts of a willing public.  The stories about entertainers and celebrities is useless.  Filler material to fit our human pyramid of idols.

Start asking your TV station to give you the news we all need to know.  Let them keep the trashy material to themselves.  Finally, ask for the names and phone numbers of the people who are approving the stories that are pushed out to you everyday.

Distractions from a Spiritual Lifestyle

 Trying to live a life starting from the foundation that we are all "children" of God is difficult.  The verbal, human communication with our Creator is not a direct verbal ask and response method.  We communicate via praying in reverence.  We "talk" to God, but we don't receive a verbal response.  We are then left to our human means to determine what is the path we are to take in response to our prayer request to God.  Then we await an outcome.  Yes, we do have a part in deciding the answer.  Sometimes the outcome will depend on the effort we put into the issue at stake.  Whether it involves economics, relationships, or other decision making, how we prepare for the result can be a deciding factor.  We just can't ask God for a result and then go watch TV or play video games while we let God do all the work.  We have to put in the work too.

Unfortunately, the supporting systems in this world that impact us do not have a Godly spiritual foundation.  Public schools that we are educated in rarely connect us to our spiritual Creator and Father.  In pubic schools, we are not taught the rules, principles and laws that God created for us to follow.  We start off our lives in an educational system that distracts us from the purpose that God created us for.  Fellowship with God is what we were created for.  Having a successful materialistic life is not what God created us for.  In God's eyes, the person who achieves materialistic riches is no better than the head of a family whose lifestyle is grounded in having God at the center of their life.

We have gotten so far off track, that we do not realize how off track we are.  We now talk about people being the G.O.A.T., "greatest of all time" in various occupations, primarily sports.  We are infatuated with idolizing other humans because of their entertainment star status.  A skill with a basketball or football is more admired than having a lifestyle that is in alignment with being in Fellowship with God/Jesus Christ/Holy Spirit.

To obtain that spiritual lifestyle one has to reject many of the human rituals and lifestyle that we have created.  We have to change the definition of having a successful life.  This begins in the family.  If we can't practice being in fellowship with God at home, we certainly can't expect to do so once we leave the home.  The distractions outside the home are many.  We often bring those distractions into the home and into our family environments.  Today start screening what you allow inside your home.  Screen out the lifestyle factors that are not in fellowship with God.

Creating Barriers - If Only....

 I saw a news item that the Governor of Texas, himself paralyzed from the waist down and subject to barriers common to the disabled, has placed barriers in waterways south of Texas to prevent immigrants from crossing into the State of Texas.  There is some irony in his actions.  While he was allowed to continue with his life via surgery, the Governor is preventing immigrants from having an opportunity to improve their lives.

Barriers to stop the progress of people.  What a concept. What an idea.  If only Native Americans, had placed barriers along the shores to prevent Europeans from settling into this country years ago.  Then possibly maybe the annihilation of the Native American people would not have happened or been at least delayed?  Maybe African's would not have been enslaved in these United States?  Maybe there would not have been a Civil War?  No Confederate states would have been created and no lingering thoughts and beliefs of Confederate values. The power of barriers.  Yes, barriers can change the course of history.  Maybe that is the Governor's concern.  To maintain the dominance of European American culture in these United States and in his state of Texas, he has decided to create barriers.

The message of the governor is clear to the immigrants.  "You are not welcomed in Texas!"  We hear you Governor, very clearly.  You have enunciated the message very well.  Well, here is a message for you Governor from a higher authority.

Psalm 37:11-13  The lowly will possess the land and will live in peace and prosperity.  The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance.  But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming.  (New Living Translation)

Father's Day Advice to Fathers and Sons

Father's Day.  On father's day, you can normally find an open reservation for dinner at most restaurants.  Often a walk in is available.  It is the exact opposite from mother's day where it's difficult to find any reservation availability.  Why? In general, fathers do not have a great reputation.  Often the fathers who are not the best of fathers stand out over those fathers who are "model" fathers.  Negative things always overwhelm good things.  We as humans seem to prefer negative drama over positive drama. But the tide may be turning as more and more positive stories come out.

For you sons out there.  Remember this.  "Father's don't know what they don't know. "  In other words, a father who isn't taught by his own father to be a model father, does not know how to display to you the traits of being a model father by his actions.  So, then you either model your father's learned/un learned behavior, or focus on trying to improve in the areas that your father was never good in.  So be understanding of the faults of your father.  His father may have passed on some of the traits that you do not like.  Or your father may even be an improvement over your grandfather.  Just know that your father either is doing the best he can or he doesn't know what he does not know.

Once a man learns his wife or woman he is sexually involved with becomes pregnant guess what happens?  Well guess what?  The man is not given a manual on "how to be the best father you can be?"  Maybe we should be given one.  After thousands of years there should be a top 100 tips on being a good father?  Or at least 5-10 books that provide guidance.  Here are a few random selections from an internet search:

How to Be a Good Dad: 12 Simple Steps - Ramsey (ramseysolutions.com)

Bright Horizons | How to Be a Good Father: Tips & Advice for Dads | Bright Horizons®

How to be a Great Dad: 18 Tips for Fatherhood | The Art  of Manliness

Within your family, has there ever been a discussion of what is a great father?  What person stands out whom you know of?  An uncle, grandparent?  Who is it?  Maybe you don't have a reference other than your own father.  Think about it.  For such an important role, thee is no "manual" they are given to apply.  It's all on the job training.  Your father is the result of there being no manual.  We do the best we know how to.  Happy Father's Day!

How Affordable Housing Crisis Is Increasing Homelessness

 Despite record setting low unemployment rates, just having a job does not guarantee that people can afford a place to live.  It is not unheard of for rent to cost in the range of $3,000 a month.  That normally is a mortgage payment.  The lack of affordable housing is increasing the number of people who fall into the category of being homeless.  Stories are increasing.  Here is a recent story from Indianapolis, Indiana.

Family forced to move out of former Washington Pointe Apartments (wrtv.com)

WTHR News - Same Negative Stories Every Day - We deserve better

 

Today was my last day watching the Indianapolis WTHR news.  Here is the text of my letter to the general manager:

Your news coverage is the same every day.  Repetitious stories of shootings and murders.  It’s as though you can’t find any stories that are motivating and positive.  Here is all that people need to know.  Is the water safe, is the food safe, or their any recalls on food or other items, what is the weather, what is traffic like, is any criminal loose we should be watchful for, are there any laws being passed that impact us, is there a health issue we should know about?  After that you get into the need to know category and human gossip.  Your stories of shootings, road rage, murders have no redeeming value.  You are not telling us anything we do not know about our society and neighborhoods.  Your “news” coverage rarely presents stories that are inspirational or motivating.  Stories that inspire us to do better.  Instead, your news coverage takes the easy way out.  You repeat stories of shootings, murders, etc. with only the names and places changing.  Your news coverage has no value.  It does nothing to improve the daily lives of the people watching in and around the Indianapolis area.  Not seeing or hearing your news coverage will be an improvement in my life and the lives of others who choose not to watch the nonsense you present us as being news.  It is not news.  It is just negative visuals you present to us as if we want to see such things after a long day at work or in school.  Explain yourselves. What do you think you are providing to the public that is helpful?  We know violence exists!  We know evil exists!  My life will improve without having to be exposed to the daily nonsense you throw out at us as being news!

Affordable Housing Crisis - People Living in RVs

 Another sign of the times and the affordable housing crisis.  Over 11,000 people are living in RVs across Los Angeles County.  Why?  Because in Los Angeles a one bedroom apartment costs $2,500 a month.  More evidence that housing, what we used to think was something we could all get, is not a guarantee in the United States of America.  So, while politicians distract our attention with rants about woke ideology, immigration, and freedom, the problem persists and gets worse each day.

Where is the government response to the issue?  There is none.  As with most real problems, we are on our own to figure out a solution.  People need to stop being passive about the issue.  In Los Angeles those living in RVs should drive them to the state capitol and park them around the building where the state legislature meets.  Or park them around the building where your local community legislators convene.  Make the problem noticeable to the public.  Show the world how the United States responds to such a basic issue as creating or building housing to accommodate its citizens.  

Affordable Housing Crisis

 One of the American dreams is to have your own home.  In the United States that dream is becoming increasingly difficult to manage and achieve.  Yes, you can find a home.  But the home you find at the price you can pay is not the dream home you always desired. Why?  Because the prices of homes have skyrocketed since 2020.   A home that could be purchased for a mortgage price of $250,000 in 2020 will now cost around $450,000 in 2023.

The rising costs especially impact the first-time home buyers.  Those who are tired of paying rent prices that are equal to some monthly mortgage payments.  So what are government officials doing about the problem?  Is there legislation being proposed to bring relief to homeowners and would be homeowners?

This is an issue that needs to be up front in the upcoming 2024 political primaries and general election.   Affordable housing is a major issue.  As you review the credentials of local, state, and national candidates ask them what they propose to ease the Affordable Housing Crisis.

Sarasota Florida Fails to Help Family of Deceased Veteran on Memorial Day

 Parades and grilling foods?  Is that the best Sarasota Florida can do in memory of those who served in our Armed Forces?  Apparently, that is the extent of how much government offices care in Sarasota.  At his moment, the son of a deceased Vietnam veteran is facing the prospect of being made homeless due to the decisions and actions of their landlord.  The landlord has served an eviction notice on the family of 6, which includes two sets of twins 13, and 2 respectively.  The family has lived in housing conditions, to include mold, that the landlord has allowed to fester for the past 3 years.  Other code violations exist in the duplex. The landlord has supposedly decided to make repairs to the duplex unit after June 30th which is the eviction date handed the son of the Vietnam veteran.

We all know that there is an affordable housing crisis in Florida as well as across the United States.  There is no avenue in Sarasota, or so far in the state of Florida, that is providing assistance and relief to this son of a Vietnam Veteran and his Florida family of 5.  While politicians in Florida are focused on national elections and political fame, the citizens of Florida such as this family of 6 suffer.

In Florida, is Memorial Day just a time for parades and grilling as the only way to honor those who gave their lives for this country?  Or is it about taking action to even come to the aid of the families of deceased veterans who are suffering in the most basic ways?

Let's find out.  Florida can you respond?  If so contact Action 7 News 941-923-6397 and the Suncoast News 941-361-4600 in Sarasota.  Also contact the Sarasota City Manager at 941-263-6402 to express your concerns with action on Memorial Day to support the descendants of deceased veterans.  Lasty contact the Governor of Florida 850-488-7146.

Lastly, sorry to interrupt your grilling and day of relaxation. 

Florida - The Haves and Havenots in Florida

 Sometime today, the Governor of Florida is supposed to announce his candidacy for the office of President of the United States.  The power and privilege of the office will be the result of being elected.  Meanwhile in Sarasota, Florida, there is a family of 6, 2 adults and 4 children, who are being evicted come June 30th from their home.  A home that has numerous health code violations.  A home where the landlord has refused to repair the unsanitary conditions. The other side of Florida, poverty and hopelessness.  Whereas the Governor represents wealth and privilege; the family of 6 represents despair, hopelessness, and the struggle to just find clean, decent, affordable housing in Florida.

The governor of Florida seems focused on fighting back against social forces in this country.  Rather than initiating a discussion with those parties, it's a war of divisive words.  Some aspects of his concerns may be valid. But, why not have a discussion instead of fighting a war of words with people and businesses in Florida?

Why isn't the governor also concerned about the quality of life for all Floridians?  I have seen no state program that attempts to help people find affordable housing in Florida.  Is that a decision the governor has made that only those with a substantial income are welcomed in Florida?  Why must a family of 6 tolerate unsanitary conditions in Florida?  Why must landlords be given the authority to rule over tenants and then force tenants out?  This family of 6 will be struggling to find an affordable home in Sarasota.  The choices of where to go are choices no fans of the governor would ever accept.

So, as you get excited over the announcement the governor is making, should you not also feel disturbed that the governor is showing no compassion for those seeking affordable housing?  He is not going after landlords who mistreat people.  I contacted local media outlets about the story of the family of 6.  So far the story has not been given any attention.  This is the way of life in Florida.  The weather forecast is more important than the living conditions of some people.   What can you do?  Get your education and obtain a job that gives you economic power where the lack of compassion by elected officials does not matter.  Your own economic power will be your way of keeping you and your family in decent living conditions.

NAACP Issues Travel Warning??

About a month ago, I heard that the NAACP, the former giant of civil rights activity, was going to issue a travel ban to warn people about social conditions in Florida.  I thought to myself, why would you keep people from coming to Florida to invest in black businesses there?  Also, why would you promote black people not coming to Florida to enjoy the natural resources of the state?  Lastly, who do you think you are hurting?  Does the NAACP really think that black dollars supports the economy of Florida?  Last time I looked around, I am the only black person living in my housing division?  The homes that do go up for sale are out of the price range of most black people.

The intent of the NAACP may have been good, but the strategy does not fit conditions in 2023.  What happened to the days when the NAACP would file suit in court to challenge legal decisions?  Why isn't the NAACP doing so in Florida?

Rescind the warning.  Urge black people to flood the state with our dollars and only shop at businesses friendly to black people.  Urge black people to purchase homes and properties in Florida.  Become citizens of Florida and then exercise your right to vote people and policies out of office and off the books.  Now is not the time to be heard and not seen.  NAACP, time to regroup on your strategy.

The Latest Stupid Human Tricks

 The past 2 weeks have featured a variety of dramatic stories.  In the United States, in Allen, Texas another deranged human being committed a mass shooting.  It has now become reality that in your family someone needs to have practiced defensive/offensive techniques with a gun to defend you when a mass shooter appears on the scene.  Any mall, or public place where people gather needs to have someone trained in the techniques to take down a mass shooter.  No talking to the shooter.  No attempt to diffuse the situation.  No hostage negotiation.  Just the technique to end the mass shooter's life as quickly as possible.

We know businesses are not going to invest money in protecting their customers and employees' lives.  So, it is up to each of us to defend ourselves and our loved ones.  Our weaponry may not consist of AR 15s but we can legally purchase self defense weaponry to end the madness of a mass shooter.  This is what we have come to in this world.  We allow people with mental illness or who are just plain evil to obtain weapons to systematically kill people for no reason.  We do not owe the mass shooter any counseling or any mental health care.  If they want help they can get it before they begin the activity of killing innocent people.

Immigration.  I have heard reports that s  many as 10,000 immigrants are awaiting the opportunity to cross over into the United States.  My thoughts were, why isn't the United States and other countries imposing sanctions against the countries immigrants are fleeing from?  Isn't it the leaders of those countries responsibility to fix the conditions in their countries that is causing people to flee to the United States?  Why are they immune from the chaos they are imposing on the United States?  So instead of shipping immigrants on buses and planes to communities across the United States, why isn't the government of the United States putting pressure on the governments of the countries where the immigrants came from to fix the mess in their country?

The debt ceiling.  Who cares if the United States debt continues to grow?  We saw during Covid that nothing gets in the way of the United States government spending money.  So please stop all the political grandstanding and just take the action that raises the debt limit.  Then move on to the day to day issues that make a difference in people's lives.  Feeding the poor.  Creating affordable housing.

UE Students Feel Unsafe on Campus

 In 1934, Evansville College admitted its first black student, Zerah Priestly, after an 80-year period when black students were not permitted to attend the college.  In 1934, social conditions in the United States were at the point where Evansville College was the last major college in Indiana to allow a black student admittance.  Racism and "Jim Crow" laws and policies were the norm in many parts of the United States.  The common theme was to treat black people inhumanely.  Lynching of black people throughout the United States were commonplace.

In 2023, some 89 years since the doors were opened to black students, a climate of "unwelcomeness" still exists towards black students at the University of Evansville (UE).  Systemic conditions exist that make UE at times an "unsafe" environment for black students.

Recently several black students attended a student function at a UE fraternity house.  At the function, black students were called the "N" word by several of the European American UE students at the function.  The official response of UE to the incident so far has been underwhelming. Last night the UE Black Student Union held a meeting to air grievances regarding the lack of an official response by UE to the incident and black student feelings of being unsafe at UE.

As a 1980 graduate of UE, I urge university officials to take appropriate disciplinary actions against the students who initiated the hate speech against the black students. A failure to do so would be a "wink and a smile" towards all students who believe in verbally assaulting black students, or anyone, with hateful words.  A failure to act condones poor behavior.

UE we await your response.

TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board - A "secretive" organization creating public policy

 What is one of the most secretive organizations in the United States?  That would be the TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board.  The Board consist of 18 appointed members of the entertainment industry and 5 "public interest" members.  Representatives from Hulu, NBC, CBS, and the Boys and Girls Club of America are some of the group members  The group meets in private and the names of the members are kept hidden from the general public.  This private group is responsible for creation of ratings and descriptors for the TV shows and movies the general public watches.  You will never see this group interviewed on television.  The group interacts with the public via a one way communication of survey results that they proudly say always supports the rating system.  The rating system they oversee is supposed to serve as a guideline to parents and others who want to be aware of the content of the material they or their children, nephews, nieces, and grandchildren are about to view.

The Board stated that recent survey results indicated that 95% of parents feel it is important to know about sexual situations in the program they are about to watch.  One issue that has come up is to understand how the Board defines "sexual situations"?  Are scenes featuring two women kissing, or two males kissing in a bed defined as "sexual situations"?  Currently such scenes are not labeled as sexual situations and have been pushed out as viewers in TV shows and movies without a warning that the program contains such scenes.

Do you as a viewer want to be forewarned about the presence of scenes that involve homosexual behavior or non binary gender behaviors?  "Sexual situations" is a descriptor that needs to be defined by the Board.  If sexual situations does not involve homosexual behavior or non binary gender issues, then separate descriptors need to be created for homosexual and non binary gender content.  In addition the ratings and descriptors need to remain on the screen for at least a full minute.  Please contact the Board via the below methods to express your views on the adequacy of current ratings and descriptors related to homosexual behavior and non binary gender content.

TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board
PO BOX 771
Washington, DC 20044
TVOMB@tvguidelines.org
(202) 570-7776

The Good News

We are in a world destined for destruction in a horrific chaotic manner.  God created a system and method for human beings, as broken as we are, to have eternal life beyond this world.  God's system was to place His son in a human form on Earth.  He then allowed for that son to suffer and die for OUR sins.  That system opened a new door for all people to achieve eternal life.

This system/method is in place.  The rules for humans to follow have been established in those words given in the bible.  Now it is up to each of us to overcome the human ways of the world and to adhere to God's rules if we want what God has offered.  The path to the offer is through the narrowest of gates.

What is your choice?  What is your chosen destination?  Begin/continue your journey.  The path is full of obstacles.  Tread carefully and in constant prayer.

Mr. Hamlin and StandAndPray

 No longer being a fan of football, I was unaware of the tragic event that occurred to Mr. Hamlin prior to posting my prior blog on StandAndPray 2023. What really caught my attention was how many football fans were suddenly motivated to pray in response to the tragedy. Would it not have been better to Stand And Pray during the playing of the national anthem to include a prayer for the safety and well being of all the players?  No, what we as humans do is pray after a negative event has happened.

Next Sunday football fans across the world will be likely asked to stand for a moment of silence in honor of Mr. Hamlin.  Some of you football fans might even take that opportunity to say a silent prayer.  But, then you will go right back into the human behavior where you remain standing with your hand over your heart , and your beer in your other hand to honor your nation during the playing of the national anthem.

Prayerfully, Mr. Hamlin will recover.  Prayerfully you will not be asked to stand at a future football game in memory of Mr. Hamlin.

So now I will ask you again.  Before your next football game or any sporting event, can you simply StandAndPray during the national anthem?

Stand and Pray at our Sports Distractions #StandAndPray 2023

 And so it continues.  In the United States, maybe in other countries also.  Before we start our sporting events, our cultural or governmental traditions have established a moment where we stand as the flag of the government is displayed and the associated national anthem played.  We are asked to stand, respectfully take off our caps, and sing along with the anthem (if you know the words).  Sometimes we are asked to place our hand over our heart.  These are human instructions on what we should do, whether we want to or not.  If you do not follow these instructions, you are frowned upon.  And please do not even think of taking a knee if you are one of the combatants on the playing field preparing for your "game".  In some countries this pre game ritual has been linked to respecting those who have fault in our human wars.  Those people sent off to practice our utmost human stupidity.  The act of killing each other over human values.  Property/land, power, resources.

There is another option for our pre game ritual.  I propose this option to all regardless of your faith, religion, or national human origin.  Regardless of your race, gender, or economic status.  As you are asked to "please rise, remove your caps, and join in the playing of our national anthem", simply stand and pray.  

Stand in acknowledgement of the God who created humanity.  Pray either silently or out loud for the continued grace of our Creator who allows us to continue to live despite our continuing to stray from the course which our Creator established for us to follow.  Pray in thanks for all that you have, whether it's the material and economic benefits that allow you to even attend this "game"; your health which allows you to be alive at the game; or just pray for spiritual guidance in your life and in the lives of your family members.  Pray in acknowledgement that the sports event is just a human distraction from the rigors of real life.  Yes, the sports event may be your "time out" from the drama of real life, but your act of "StandAndPray" is your action of acknowledging what really matters.  Stand and pray is your acknowledgement that you are always "time in" when it comes to your spirituality.

Romans 1:23  (NLT)  And instead of worshipping the glorious ever living God, they worshipped idols made look like mere people and birds and animals and  reptiles.