The Black Man and His Johnson

For centuries, black men have endured the degradation of their spirit and manhood. All that they stood for while serving as kings in Africa was dismantled by slavery. They have however, remained steadfast. They have made a way out of no way. They have overcome what many thought to be unbeatable odds without much POWER.

The perseverance of the black man cannot be refuted. With that, a certain stigma has arisen that might prove to be controversial, insightful, and informative.

Recently, I picked up a book that was recommended to me by a Caucasian woman. The title of this very thought-provoking book is Hung: A Meditation on the Measure of Black Men in America. The author, Scott Poulson-Bryant has taken me on a very uncomfortable journey page after page. It has been so uncomfortable because he has forced me to conduct an ego self analysis. No man enjoys this. It truly puts him in a position to either accept some things or totally discount them.

If any black man tells you the size of his penis does not matter please move away from him! Lighting will definitely strike him or somewhere close. The fact of the matter is that the black man’s penis is the last beacon of success and power that he has after everything else such as money, cars, houses, and clothes are taken away. His penis is what will be in his hand! He still has that device that makes a woman squirm. He still has that thing every white woman wants to experience. He still has that sword the white man hated so much during slavery that it was cut off, and then placed in the black man’s mouth while the noose was around his neck.

Power: the ability or capacity to perform or act effectively.

Despite what the government reports to us via statistical analysis, the black man wants to be effective. He wants to be because it is in his nature to perform effectively, be it professionally or personally. We all want to be viewed as the best car sales man, stock broker, check stand clerk, medical doctor, trash collector, or teacher. Why? It is simple: The best gets attention and then recognition follows.

According to our societal beliefs, the best penis is the 8 to10 inch one. We should not be surprised by this. The Hummer is huge. Bigger is just better in the United States. Now, ask yourself why wouldn’t every black man want a large penis? I am sure the ones who have those eight to ten inches feel a certain level of power. Remember, the desire for power is planted in men at a very early age. On the basketball court, on the football field, and in the bedroom the man has to have the power to some degree. However, for the black man this power concept relates back to how power was taken away from him. Imagine the power a king has. He is the ruler. No one can or should defy him. It is this type of power that the black man wants to regain. He wants to be the man of the house. He wants the white man to see him as what he was before Porch Monkey. He wants his woman to see him as DA MAN! The question: How does all of this relate to penis size? Continue to read.

Well psychologically, a man is usually less confident if he has a small penis. Not only with his sexual performance, but in his life in general. But, the man with a large penis walks with a swagger. He knows he is the #$*&. Nobody can tell him anything.

Why do we have this difference in confidence levels? To explicitly reiterate:

The big black penis is envied by white men and black men. The big black penis makes the white women come back. The big black penis has the ability to make every man in the locker room stop, glance, be quiet for a moment, and then say: DAMN!

Envy, praise, and attention. To be envied, praised, positively reviewed, and recognized. What more does the black man need? Whew! I am excited thinking about the power that I have.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by any brother out there saying, ‘Brian, I was never a

ding-a-ling watcher in the middle school gym shower.’ Yes, you were. We all were because we wanted the power, and wanted to see who else had it!!!

Please read below the female's response to: Is penis size important?

1) I think that size is important in regards to the extremes - too large or too small. Too small won't be enjoyable, and too large would be uncomfortable. The only personal opinion that I have is in regards to the physical pleasure - anything in between 5 and 7 inches should work just fine. However, I could understand why some people would inappropriately correlate penis size to a measurement of manhood.

2) I think it depends on what a person is looking for when in the presence of a particular penis. What is it that they want from it, and/or the person? Then size is important. My honest answer to the question is No. Size doesn't make me feel better, nor does it satisfy my needs. Size is only important to those women that have allowed themselves to live in a shallow world with unsureness of self. Size counts for half of what a man with an average size penis can do, versus one with 12 inches.

3) The penis is the quarterback and I will be the receiver. When it goes long and deep: Touchdown!!! Play executed perfectly, but only if the penis knows how to stroke a pass. Praise be to the man that is equipped with the knowledge and skill of pleasing with ones "penis."

4) I think penis size is important to some degree, but mainly I think it's a matter of preference. I think it’s a misconception that the larger the penis, the greater the sex. Size is important to each person in the sense that the receiver/giver is seeking satisfaction, and when that is not achieved its a bummer. Isn't that essentially what we are seeking: to be satisfied in the bedroom. No matter the size. For me, it's not about the size, as much as it is about performance. So, if a man doesn't know how to utilize this tool, size goes out the window.

5) The size of a penis does matter because you want to be able to feel something during sex. Believe it or not, their are men whose penis looks like it stop growing at age 7 or 8. I really feel sorry for these men and encourage them to marry a virgin. To be more specific, it is not the length that matters, it is the girth that is really important.

6) When I was young I believed the HYPE, and yes I thought size did matter. Since I have been grown and allot more experienced in life. I have found that a man that is giving pleasure to a woman that wants to be pleasured; size does not matter...quality not quantity. "It feels good" does not mean as much as my feelings.

7) In the case of oral sex I believe the size of the penis comes into full play. I have only performed oral sex on my ex-husband, but I feel you have to have a certain size for the woman to maintain the quest of conquering the penis with her mouth. The penis has to be large enough that the mouth and throat can feel the depths of the penis penetrating through her whole body.

8) It's not about feeling better. It's about feeling at all. I gotta be able to feel you, at minimum. That's being considerate because... your penis needs to make me c*m. If I can't feel your penis, how will your penis make me c*m? No manner of motion in the ocean will help a small ship. It'll just make me seasick...

Lucifer's Acquisition

Why should we care that Middle East tensions have flared up once again? Why is the media covering the same scenario that plays itself out daily in that region? Why are we spending so much time talking and debating the crisis? Why don’t we just sit back and allow these people to destroy themselves? Why is the Western world quick to defend “God’s chosen people”, who became ruthless invaders and brutal occupiers of righteously acquired land. The Jewish people were wrong many years ago, and they are wrong now.

These are the type of questions I have received within the last few days. Some may consider the questions valid, a few may be offended by the non-caring attitude that they purport, and some may consider the final question to be anti-Semitic. Either way, the Middle East problems are far from being over. This tit for tat deadly game is taking lives and destroying physical structures such as homes, border crossings, and businesses. While the destruction continues many of us who care, are wondering what the real issue is. It definitely is not about two kidnapped Israeli soldiers. It is bigger than that. Much bigger.

The Middle East conflict, particularly between Palestine and Israel, dates back to the early 1800’s. It all started over the acquirement of land and an imperialistic action. Land then, like today, is the determining factor of the development and creation of a culture. The geographical location dictates the elements within the culture. For example, in the Pacific the cultural aspects of the people there coincide with what the land has to offer e.g. tropical climate. In the Middle East, because of the religious and spiritual aspects, the land is prime real estate. It is the essence of the people. Muslims, Christians, and Jews have known this for quite some time. Therefore, the Palestinian Arabs decided to settle in this part of the world bringing together their Muslim, Christian, and Jewish traditions while living in complete harmony until “outsiders” from Europe selectively decided to colonize the land. These people are known as Zionist, but are also referred to as Jewish extremist. Over a significant period of time the Zionist migrated from Europe to Palestine. Of course the influx burdened the Palestinian people, and it was this burden that eventually lead the Palestinian people, who were living together peacefully, to became resentful. Then the fighting commenced!

I find it ridiculously hilarious that the major point of the conflict is somehow glossed over by the United States and European governments. It was the European Jew who invaded this part of the world. It was the European Jew who pressured the UN to intervene on their behalf under false pretense. It was them who ended up with 55 percent of the land to form a Jewish state (now Israel) despite the fact they represented only 30 percent of the total population, and owned under 7 percent of the land.

In regards to land procurement the darker skinned humans always get the raw deal. Think about it. The Native Americans were the first inhabitants on what is now North American soil. The Aborigine people of Australia were the first inhabitants of that part of the world. The Asians and Africans of today and thousands of years ago were the first inhabitants of that body of land. Each group’s land was infiltrated with foolish Western values, imperialized, culturally raped, and/or stolen by the white man.

What skin tone does the Jew’s in power from Israel have? You guessed it: WHITE. It is interesting that the white men of the past and even today have constantly been the aggressor and the conniving ones, but they always plead innocence when challenged. In the Hebrew Bible, the writer of Isaiah had a name for people of this character: Lucifer.

After countless history lessons we are still avoiding the appropriate discussion. Instead of giving the Palestinians their land back we choose to debate over if their military tactics are within the confines of warfare. Yes, killing civilians merits a discussion. However, the darker skinned people (Palestinians) are not interested in sitting down and talking about sanctioned Western methods of war. They want their land, and they have proven that they are willing to die for it. I admire and respect that because my ancestors of Africa died in an effort to save what the Europeans and Americans have transformed into a dreadful place.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by that person who dares to label me as anti-Semitic.

The Holy Koran and Your Bible: Is your God a Supreme Mob Boss?

A recipe of Hatred, Murder, and Destruction: The Holy Koran and of course your Bible.

*Before I begin I would like to encourage you to study the Koran to not only verify my findings, but to educate yourself. What you will discover is the Koran for thousands of Muslims is a scared tool that can be used to help one despise the non-believer and its teachings have caused years of religious conflict. The same holds true for the Bible.

The average Muslim today will not tell you that their book of faith is littered with seeds of hatred, murder, and destruction. The conservative, moderate, and liberal Christian will not tell you that their book of guidance (the Bible) has strands of H, M & D. However, for all of you who subscribe to Islam or who is intrigued by the religion that is proclaimed to be the guiding force of the terrorist will be informed today by a man who believes all forms of religion have proven to be deadly when the prescribed tenants and beliefs are misinterpreted or misused.

To misinterpret sections of the Koran is a potential recipe of H, M, & D. For example, how should one understand the following Koran passage: God does not guide the evil-doers (2:258). First, one must understand that the referred to evil-doers are those men and women who are considered unbelievers. Then you have to ask yourself, who does God guide? The answer: Muslims, who have declared war on the non-Muslim. This is the first seed of hatred and division that has been planted between the non-believer and believer. Keep in mind a similar scenario is within the Christian faith i.e. highly favored saints and the unfavored people who question.

Take a look at this passage from the Koran: Those that deny God’s revelations shall be sternly punished; God is mighty and capable of revenge (3:5). There is no room for misinterpretation here. Right? This mighty God appears to be in the punishing business. He appears to be revengeful. If you read the Koran you will gather that the revenge mentioned is not an act of light punishment. Death is your sentence if you do not believe Allah’s mandates. Keep in mind the Christian God killed Pharaoh, his son, and his troops because they did not believe.

Let’s dissect one more passage that does not require a scalpel to make an incision. On the matter of suicide: Do not destroy yourselves (4:29). Before you respond, think about this passage. Do not destroy yourselves (??). Well, on September 11, 2001, yesterday, and today a few determined men killed themselves and hundreds/thousands of other people. They apparently did not take heed to this passage. They decided to view it in un-literal terms. A literal interpretation, unlike others, was bypassed. I find this interesting considering the Muslim in the Middle East prefers a literal translation. There is no tolerance for “picking and choosing” over there. Keep in mind Jesus’ death has been viewed as a suicide by many.

The essence of this piece is to drive home the point that religion continues to be a great divider. It is a reckless vehicle full of explosives. Usually after an explosion particles are thrown every where. At times there is no recognition of what was in the vicinity. Explosions are Destructive, the result of some is Murder, and the impetus behind the explosion is Hatred. H, M & D!

How long will people die over something that does not make any sense? Who will be the next fanatic to emulate Jim Jones? Who will be the next victim of sectarian violence? Will there ever be an end to misguided faith?

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, former chief mastermind of terrorism in Iraq. Inspired by those self-righteous Christians and Muslims, who fail to acknowledge that their God sanctioned murder. This makes their God the supreme mob boss.

Declaration of Their Independence

As I sat here wondering what my message will be for the upcoming holiday. I slowly navigated to Internet Explorer, clicked on the desktop icon, and then I moved the mouse arrow to my favorites. I proceeded to click on the Google link, placed the mouse arrow in the space provided to type, and then I typed the History of Independence Day. While waiting to click Google Search, I thought about what would come up on the screen. I immediately envisioned links to websites that would resemble my search criteria. Of course I was right. So, I clicked on the first one I saw: Independence Day on the Net–Story. Well, I definitely got what I asked for. The history of America’s birthday is in big fonts, stars are all over the page, firework graphics are protruding, and that song I despise is playing. What is it? America, America... Somebody help me. By the way, the song repeats itself over and over again. That was irritating me as I tried to continue my research.

Eventually, I clicked on the icon that read: Declaration of Independence. I have read the document before. However, this time around I read it without trying to memorize selected areas of it. Then it finally hit me that the most quoted sentence of the document (We hold these truths...) precedes two extremely important sentences. Read below. Pay close attention to the second and third sentence.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”

Since the day this so called Declaration of Their Independence was written we (black folk) were not included. We were property then. I ask, what are we considered now? Answer: Since this document has not been amended and never will be we are still technically speaking, property. However, today we have been given a status to have unalienable rights. Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. I have my life. I am breathing. I guess I have liberty. I am considered free from restriction and control. Wait, is this true? Anyway, I do have the opportunity to be happy. I am happy.

Being happy is great, but why don’t I feel included? I feel like this holiday is not for me. I have asked myself time and time again, why in the world am I celebrating this holiday that does not pertain to me? My answer: “Why not? The steaks, hotdogs, and ribs I eat on the 4th of July are always good!” The 4th is just like Thanksgiving for me. I drink and eat until I get sleepy. Then I wake-up, drink, and eat some more.

Plain and simple, Independence Day is another ridiculous day that our government has sanctioned to celebrate under the auspice of a few alienable rights. It is among numerous other holidays that we claim are our reasons to be thankful and joyous i.e. the birth celebration of Jesus Christ (not sure why this is so important. I guess he ranks up there with George Washington). Anyway, I will eat a steak on the government and I will probably stand with hundreds of other people to watch the sky light up with the colors of America via fireworks. But there is one thing I will not forget, and maybe you should not either. Read below.

"That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”

We should take heed to what we are summoned to do since the present government has become destructive. It is in our rights to abolish the government and institute a new one considering the elected officials have created an environment where our safety is in jeopardy i.e. terrorist attacks, and considering many of us are having difficulties pursuing happiness on several fronts because of our governmental policies.

I am ready to rebel. Are you? The young man pictured in the portrait was ready. Click on this link to view the picture (to the right of page):

http://www.pekingduck.org/archives/000935.php.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by that sickening flag I am bound to see waving in the sky for the next few days. The Red, White, Blue, Stars and Stripes. This flag has a similar psychological effect on me after visualizing or seeing a symbol of hatred such as the Nazi used swastika or the Klansmen’s uniform: DISGUST.

The Tables Need to Stop Turning

The Tables Have Turned: Not a Good Thing

There are men who are joyously dancing. There are men who are gloating. There are men who are foolishly content. Why? Because the Tables Have Turned. Brian, what do you mean? Well, the man does not have to court a female any longer. He does not have to commit. He does not have to do his part to maintain a relationship. The single black man in Atlanta and other major metropolitan areas do not have to be respectful, courteous, honest, forthright, sincere, faithful, and all the other things that should be done to do right by her, and he still gets the woman and everything that comes along with her i.e. sex, never ending supply of dates, etc. The Tables Have Turned.

Twenty years ago the majority of black men would open the door for his date. He would pay for the meal. He would return calls. He would walk the female to the car. He would drive. He would show unwarranted affection. He would listen. He would positively respond to concerns. He would validate feelings. He would caress during sex. He would even spoon. Ladies, not anymore. The man is riding high on the fumes of nine women to one man.

If you really think about. What did women expect? Did women expect the man to respond differently? If so, why in the world would you believe that? Yeah, I know: ‘He should just do the right thing.’ Move to earth! This is not the way it works anymore. It should function differently, but in the real world things move along with what is permitted. The flow of water can be stopped if it is turned off. Flooding can be prevented if the hole in the levy is sealed. ‘Okay, Brian, are you saying women have allowed this behavior?’ YES, I AM SAYING THAT. You are the one who takes out your purse when the check comes. You are the one who runs straight to the passenger side without allowing the man to open the door for you. You are the one who allows the man to sex you without any form of intimacy. You are the one who will say to the man, ‘Oh, you do not have to call, I know you are entirely too busy.’ You are the one who dates men who cannot articulate his feelings, and then you expect him to understand yours. You are the one who will not allow him to pursue you. You can tell me I am wrong. That is fine, but for some of you the guilt is consuming you as you read this.

Is this new development a good thing? Of course not! It is a problem when there are numerous men saying to themselves, ‘Man, there are too many women out there for me to be sweating her. I am moving on to the next one.’ This mentality is destructive. It is a problem we definitely could do without in the black community. What happens to the black family when the tables are turning? How should the man respond? Well, it is simple; the man needs to first and foremost do right by her. This entails: diligently putting forth an effort to sustain the relationship, listen and respond with compassion, be interested in what your woman has to say, communicate your feelings, make honesty a priority, show respect and treat her as if she is your mother or daughter, and basically bring back the elements of courtship. Chivalry would not be dead if men and women valued it.

Women, it is simple for you too. All you have to do is get fed-up. When you get fed-up you will set boundaries. I just ask that you get fed-up and set the boundaries sooner rather than later because the man will more than likely not change his destructive behavior until he is FORCED. Force him! You are not responsible for him. I know. Just remind him what is expected and necessary to get in those panties.

Now, the fellas are probably wondering why in the world did Brian write this. No need to ponder. It needed to be said. You know I am right. If not, challenge me. Tell me where I am wrong. We can discuss this like men. I am just writing from experience. Believe me, I am not throwing stones. My verdict has been read: Guilty on all counts!

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by the few women who are getting fed-up.

Slavery Effects

Discipline can be conducted in numerous forms, and parents have various ways to incorporate discipline into their child rearing strategy. My mother used physical discipline to institute fear and to teach a lesson. After several years of the whippings I concluded that if she did not whip me I would not be where I am today. I have even said countless times to my friends, “without the beatings I would probably be in prison.” In some ways I believe this because I have been in too many compromising and extremely unlawful situations that could have lead to death or imprisonment. What helped me to do the right thing was: The long walk to get the switch and then the beaten. However, after several years of parenting and witnessing other parent’s parent I believe physical disciplinary tactics can to some degree cause psychological and emotional damage if conducted in anger.

With that opening statement, I need your feedback on an incident I unfortunately witnessed.

The Beating

While waiting on the train after a very exhausting day. I saw a woman standing on the train platform with three rambunctious children. The age range was approximately 5yrs old to 8yrs old. The woman looked tired. It was another hot day in the ATL, and being underground waiting on a late train made me hotter! So, I know she was fuming. Three active kids, heat, and a tardy train. Anyway, after about two minutes of her trying her best to control the children and to no avail, she pulled out a stick. It looked like a broken yard stick.

Well, the stick was eventually used in anger to BEAT the 5yr old because he said one too many times that he was hot. After about thirty-five seconds of seeing a slave beating, and while two black policemen and other train passengers looked on (including myself) like it was a normal occurrence I began to get upset. Actually, I become overwhelmed with a host of feelings.

In an effort to “connect” with me guess who said, “I can’t believe that lady. She could have killed that little fella. Why can’t these women discipline in another way?” You got it: A white lady! I was so embarrassed, but the embarrassment turned to misdirected anger. I foolishly got mad at the 50 plus year old white lady. Why was I mad at her? She did not savagely beat a 5yr old with a walking stick! Out of respect I decided not to cut her with my tongue. Even as I type, I am wondering why in the $#% did I consider cursing her out. Interesting?

Why didn’t I save that child from being brutalized? Why didn’t the policemen stop the
in-a-rage black mother? I guess I was too tired to intervene. My day left me too BEAT. So, BEAT I could not stop what the white slave master did to my ancestors. They BEAT them to control them. They BEAT them because they hated them. However, this time around the slave master was the black woman and what she hated at that very moment was not the children, but herself and her plight; and I am guilty of indirectly supporting what the slave master so successfully accomplished: Black self hatred.

To top this spectacle off in a separate matter, one of the policemen decided to clear the steps leading to the train platform. Guess what method he selected to do it with? He took out his black club. Pointed it at the black teenagers sitting on the steps, and then yelled with intense anger and disgust, “Get your butt off the steps. Get out the way. Stupid!” Yes, an officer of the law.

Both incidents are examples of the hatred we (black folk) have toward each other. It is our internal shield we use to deflect the love and respect we are suppose to show each other. It is what will ultimately destroy us.

Questions: What is your take on both scenarios? What should the policemen, the other passengers, and I have done?

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by witnessing one of slaverys' accomplishments: Black self hatred.

What can I say about my father?

Since I plan to answer the question honestly the commentary you are about to read maybe disappointing, disturbing, and/or not uplifting. Now, if you want the truth and a dirty version of the reality of Father’s Day for millions of black men in America stay with me for about five minutes. I assure you by the end of the five minutes you will be pleased and thankful I shared my story with you. It is a story of “beating the odds”.

On July 3, 1989 a woman looked at me as I bagged her groceries at the local supermarket. Actually, she was staring. I became uncomfortable after about 30 long seconds, so I asked “How are you today?” She replied with, “I am fine. Are you JB’s son?” I said (with excitement and pride), “Yes, I am.” She preceded to pick-up her groceries and walked away. Then she did a 180, and yelled to me with disdain. “I hope you don’t be nothing like your daddy!”

I was 19 years old. I was working on my birthday. I was trying to earn enough money to purchase my college books. I was trying to do the right thing. I was trying to do what my mother told me to do (“work to get what you want”). However, at the very moment this women finished her sentence with “daddy” I was devastated.

No one reading this can probably understand the sting of that statement because you don’t know my father unless you have heard of him by way of gossip. Those of you from Thomasville, North Carolina know of him, but you don’t really know him. You have heard the stories of how mean he was and how most people in the Ville were terrified when and if he got angry, but you don’t really know him. Despite what has been said about him he can be a kind man.

He is the man that I have “run away” from for years. I ran from looking like him. I ran from being like him. Ultimately, I tried everything in my power to shake his genes. Over time I discovered that running away from this man meant I was running away from myself. I had to admit to myself and others that I am just like my daddy. The resemblance is amazing and my behavior at times was unique only to JB Taylor. However, one thing sets us apart. One thing: I am a devoted father.

On this Father’s Day and for the past six 3rd Sunday’s of June I have been Judah Mordecai’s father. I have been like Johnny Johnson, Alexander Watson, Charles Brown, and numerous other black men who have remained faithful to fatherhood, but on June 18, 2006 it will be a little different for me. I have finally summoned enough courage to say to the world, “I am who I am because of what that woman said to me back in 1989.” As I fought to be someone different, I, in turn became a man who wanted to prove to that lady I am the essence of my father, but I am what he was not: A father.

On Father’s Day continue to love, cherish, and respect the black father. More than likely, he is being a father without any fatherly guidance on what is necessary to be a great dad. Help his children answer the question: What can I say about my father? differently.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by the vow I made over ten years ago in a High Point University dormitory room. I would like to ask every man reading this piece who has children or plans to have children to repeat the vow with me. The vow: I will be a father to my children no matter what the circumstances are. Not having a father is not an excuse to be absentee.

The Latest Youth Craze

The Metro-Sexual commentary I wrote a week ago has sparked another conversation. One that I have been trying to stay away from for quite some time because I could not intelligently articulate my thoughts without becoming consumed with frustration. A conversation that’s sensitive and somewhat prevalent among women and men living in the Atlanta area. So, as I attempt to express my point of view please understand that I am trying my best to create a forum that’s caring, understanding, respectable, open, and bluntly honest.

Below is my response to another blogger who mentioned to me her concerns about homosexuality in Atlanta.

“...I find it highly pathetic that this city has become the Mecca for men who are not confused. They are exactly what you see: Gay. No confusion whatsoever.

I am perplexed by the number of youth who are embracing the homosexual lifestyle without a complete understanding of being gay. This attitude of being gay just because is ridiculous, and it gives some insight on the pathetic-ness of our society.”

Pathetic: Arousing or capable of arousing sympathetic sadness and compassion.

Fad: A fashion that is taken up with great enthusiasm for a brief period of time.

For me to describe something as pathetic means I am upset, disappointed, and/or sad about the reality of that something. It is real that homosexuality exists all over the world, and that numerous countries consider it a crime and worthy of death. It is real that homosexuals have decided to select a lifestyle that has been aggressively criticized and denounced by the Church, it is real homosexual views are forced upon people who are not interested in the details of the gay lifestyle, it is real if you are gay you are threatened by hate groups, it is real homosexuals are permitted to adopt children without much regard to the effects it may have on the child, it is real gay men, like heterosexual men, practice unsafe sex, it is real homophobia incapacitates acceptance, it is real thousands of men are emotionally and psychologically battling their reality of being gay, it is real gay men are embarrassed to come out of the closet, and it is real homosexual men are deceiving women (on the Down Low). With all this realness, I ultimately find it pathetic our youth are embracing homosexuality like it is the latest pair of Allen Iverson shoes to hit the stores.

Many of us have concluded being gay today is a fad. It is something to do. It is an expression of our freedom. However, not many of us have openly discussed the magnitude of this “new thing” that our children are in a craze over.

What type of response were we expecting from our children when we have beaten into them that being gay is a sin and that being gay is disgusting? Did we not understand that all children gravity toward the so called forbidden? You remember when your mother and father told you to, “Stay away from that. It is not good for you.” Some of you responded under your breath, “Okay, but I am still going to try it.” At that very moment I and other kids were at a crossroad. We could have listened to our parents or we could have satisfied our curiosity. Well, hundreds upon hundreds of us did allow curiosity to win, and the result for some has been death.

Do I fault the kids? No, I do not. I place the blame on the parents and the village we supposedly live in: The world. Where are we to be found when the world is going to hell in a hand basket? Should we step in and say to our children, ‘Being gay does not fit into God’s natural order of things.’ Should we say, ‘It is okay. Be who you are. God accepts us all.’ Collectively, we have said NOTHING, but today is your chance. Continue to read.

The same sex male/female youth I witness kissing and groping each other as I ride the train and as I walk around downtown is overwhelming, alarming, and it is pathetic. I feel aroused with sadness that no one has impressed upon these youth that living a gay lifestyle is…

I have purposefully left the above sentence for you (the reader) to complete.

Also, if you believe being gay has reached the level of a fad please enlighten others by helping me answer the following question: How will this reality benefit the society at large?

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by our confused and attention seeking youth.

A Letter to Those Cautious Women: The Definition of Metro-Sexual

Announcement:

Every sexually active individual needs to be cautious about who they sleep with.

Why wouldn’t you be under the present circumstances: Rampant increases in sexually transmitted disease infections i.e. the big one: HIV/AIDS. However, it is my belief this leeriness is not solely associated with sexual behavior. I am of the belief women are also concerned about who and what they devote themselves to. What do you mean by “what they devote themselves to.” Well, it is a fact there is a huge percentage of men in Atlanta and throughout the world who are double-dipping or should I say undecided? If you are a double-dipper you are playing with someone’s life. Their life is not your playground or your backyard of exploration. If you fall in the undecided category please keep in mind or be informed that who you say you love is more than likely not equipped to psychologically assist you with your dilemma. You need some level of therapy to help you come to terms with the issue. And, by the way, this is not something TD Jakes can cast out of your body.

Now, to the subject at hand. The Metro-Sexual. Who is this man? What makes him tick? Why is he misunderstood?

Ladies, you asked us (men) to take off the Timberlands. You demanded we tuck in our collar shirts. You even required we pull up our pants a little. Then you went on to hint that we need to remove the athletic caps, and trade them in for a more stylish hat.

You suggested we get a monthly manicure and a pedicure. You asked us to shave our chest hair down to a non-abrasive length. You even strongly recommended we put wet wipes in our bathrooms.

Ladies, you asked us to use correct English in the home, and demanded we get rid of the street talk. You encouraged us to start reading books, and not just the sports page. You even convinced us to become more internationally astute. Then you succeeded at hoodwinking us into eliminating Sports Center from our television viewing repertoire.

You came to our homes, and concluded the décor was cheap looking and outdated. We went shopping with you to “beautify” our place, and while spending our money to redecorate our place of refuge, you slipped a pair of shoes in the shopping cart. Then you lead us to believe painted accent walls were in.

And, ladies, we even altered our eating habits to appease you. We put down the chips. We decided to eat more WHITE MEAT chicken. What happen to the leg and thigh? Now, we eat skinless breasts! Then we fell for this one: ‘Baby, if you are going to drink beer maybe you should drink one of those low in carb’s beers.’

Fellas, we have been suckered! Lead astray!!

Ladies, guess what? We are now what you groomed, cultured, and molded.
We are Metro-sexual!

A description of the Metro-Sexual:

An urban straight male ranging in age from late teens to mid 30's who is good looking (FINE), stylish, fashionable, trendy, cultured, & well groomed. A metro sexual is very conscious about his image and looks in public. He is well educated, confident, knows what he wants in his life. Prefers quality over quantity. He always wants to make sure he is up to date on fashion, and usually he is the trend setter, and he is open to new things as long it is worth his time and money.

He is a hip guy who is sensitive to women's feelings and spirituality. He is not even afraid to say ‘what a cute little purse or those shoes are hot’. This man is tuned into the very core of women, noticing every detail about them. Yes, he knows when it is time for his woman to get her hair FIXED. He is not open to too much weave. Extensions get in his way and makes his woman look superficial.

He is meticulous about his stuff and he is a decorator who does not need a woman’s assistance in making his home comfortable. His home probably speaks volumes about him, and he wants to make a statement to all his visitors.

He loves to make love to his woman, and he knows exactly how to please her affectionately and sexually. If you want to get banged every time, too bad. He wants to be passionately erotic. He may not be into the oral sex thing right out the gate! So, don’t get disappointed if he passes on that the first, second, and third time around. He is only being health conscience and he is just making sure you will not lose your mind because he plans to do it sensually.

Oh!, and he is definitely, not gay. He just wears a tight t-shirt because he is proud of the body he has sculptured by working out four times a week. Actually, he wants you to join him on the elliptical machine.

You know you want this man!

Written by a proud dark-skinned Metro-Sexual. Inspired by all the women who convinced her man to watch Desperate House Wives instead of the featured NFL Sunday Night Game on ESPN!

Oprah’s Legends Ball: Mourning the Death of One Black Woman and Appreciating Thousands More

It was May 22, 2006 when I finally mourned the death of my grandmother. After 14 years I began to understand the magnitude of her death. Frankie Payne’s death did not hit me on April 10, 1992 like it did while watching Oprah Winfrey’s Legends Ball. It was on this night between 8pm and 9pm that I realized the power of Frankie.

She was quick-witted, sarcastic, and brutally honest. She was the epitome of Dorothy Height’s courageousness, she was dedicated to life like Cecily Tyson, Frankie Payne was the essence of Ruby Dee’s beauty. How I loved my grandmother!

She was my momma, my auntie, and my grandma all in one. She was everything to me. Frankie Payne told me how to behave in public and she demanded that I respect and honor the black woman. Not only was she the behavior checker she was the evaluator of my girlfriends. She set the standard. How I miss Frankie!

Eventually, while watching the MOVING special presentation, my thoughts began to drift from grandma. I started to think of my relationships with the black woman. I began to think about the pain I have caused. I began to re-evaluate what I want and desire from the black woman. I immediately thought of the marvelous bonds I have created with women whose make-up includes tenacity, love, beauty, intelligence, creativity, elegance, passion, support, and humility. All of the women invited to Oprah’s home to celebrate black femininity have these wonderful personality traits. Traits every black man wants. How every black man needs a Leontyne Price!

No black woman on the face of this earth should say, ‘There are no role models for me.’ From Ashanti to Gladys Knight there is a model for the black woman to emulate. The icons are in the black woman’s reach, and the black girl on the Southside of Chicago has someone they can say is my heroine. On career day at Salem Elementary School every little black girl can proudly say with confidence, ‘I want to be just like McMillan, Keys, Reese…’

And, for the black man we should all be able to say, ‘The black woman has been there and she continues to support me.’ A display of support like Coretta Scott King gave to a man who changed America. How I want a Rosa Lee Medley, Mary Payne-Scott, and Demetress Johnson!

We, black men, have witnessed via the Legends Ball broadcast that black women can get together without “chatting” about each other, without backstabbing, without gossiping, without looking angry, and without disrespecting each other. Now, it is time for us (black men) to step-up. We have to do our part by combating and defeating the barriers we have created and remove the curtain of division that has pushed black men and women a part. Ultimately, it is time for the black woman and man to rededicate ourselves to the development of the black family.

Black man, will you join me? Black woman, will you help and continue to support us?

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by the memories of Frankie Payne. Inspired by one of God’s gifts to the world: Oprah Winfrey.

For more information on the Legend’s Ball please visit this website: http://abc.go.com/primetime/legendsball/

The conservative Christian got it wrong. The Da Vinci Code promoted an essential element of Christianity: Faith

Since creation man has always wanted the unanswered answered. He has continuously sought to create an environment that builds or adds to civilization. However, history has proven most human beings just want to know one single form of the truth. These are the people who condemn themselves to a life of surface intelligence. They refuse to holistically explore or enhance their beliefs. They do not understand the truth quest.

The movie and the book Da Vinci Code, despite the controversy surrounding it, is a story about three individuals who want a full understanding of Jesus. They decided to search for more than what they have been told. The woman who was selected to be the direct benefactor of the truth and the two men who wanted nothing more but to reveal to the world another version of the truth are examples of what God intends for us to do: Question.

Yes, I believe God wants us to question Him and question anything that will cause us to structure our lives around a belief concept. Christians and Muslims have decided to build a life surrounding various elements within their faith. It is this faith that sustains them. It is this faith that moves them to love and even kill.

The truth quest displayed and emulated by the characters in the Da Vinci Code is faith seeking an understanding. The characters are simply trying to understand. Their desire to know the truth is teased with one single item that could give them what they wanted and then their desire is fulfilled with the one thing they started with: Faith.

Faith is the beginning and ending of all things. It is all we have when the lights are dimmed to darkness. Faith is our sole reason to continue. It helps us get from one point to the other.

Our lives are mirror images of the three characters. We are benefactors of our truths and we all want our version of the truth to be read and heard. The one place we make a mistake is when we fanatically believe our truth and understanding is the only form worth building a faith concept around.

Let’s continue to build our faith by considering and understanding other versions of the truth.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by The Teacher, Robert Langdon, and Sophie Neveu (Da Vinci Code movie characters).

The Black Man Has A Voice

On too many occasions we hear all the news worthy incidents surrounding black men i.e. crime statistics, ridiculous celebrity stories, professional athlete drama, etc. We rarely hear news that supports the numerous positives of black men. Now, I do have to admit that it would be very easy for me to follow suit with the media by telling you how frustrated I am with the lack of progression of black men in America. It would be very easy for me to blame the white man and the United States government for the demise of the black man. However, today I want to spend some time uplifting the black man and sharing with you the Black Mans’ thoughts via quotes. These are thoughts that need to be heard. These are thoughts that have the potential to eradicate the vices plaguing the black community. With our thoughts followed by action we have the power to make some changes that will appease our ancestors.

Below you will find quotes on various topics from the unseen and unheard black man. Cornel West, Tavis Smiley, Charles Barkley, John Lewis, Barack Obama, Cain Hope Felder, and numerous others are not listed. They have been quoted enough. What you will read are quotes from everyday men who teach, own a business, work in international development, manage after school programs, etc. These are the black men making a difference that’s on a smaller scale. A difference that goes unnoticed by ABC, NBC, BET, MTV, CBS, CNN, and Fox.

It is my hope you are moved to reflect and act. It is my hope you read a sentence that will change your opinion or at least challenge your beliefs. Either way, keep in mind that the Black Man has a Voice.

Quotes

Live life...it is the beginning and end to all things that are important to you.
-Anthony "ACOTT" Cottrell, Air Traffic Controller

There is no testimony without a test. –Patrick Medley, Teacher

God does not choose the qualified, rather He qualifies the chosen.
–Anonymous, Sales Clerk

Facts should be the basis of our beliefs. Unfortunately, reason has been overpowered by religious myths and stories that were only intended to generate faith and belief.
–Brian E. Payne, Recruitment Coordinator/Manager and writer

Your life today is the result of your attitude and choices in the past. Your life tomorrow will be the result of your attitude and the choices you make today.
–Anonymous, IT Consultant

Oftentimes conflict can be resolved if we practice two simple rules: Self Assessment and Communication. –Derrick Medley, Veterinarian

Religion is a controlled substance viewed by common people as the truth, by wise men as false, and by the RULERS as useful.
-Eric Johnson, Master Barber and former Stock Broker

Live a life that will not make God ashamed to call you His own.
–Michael Jenkins, International Development Recruiter and Printing Business Owner

There is no such thing as accidents. All things work according to a major plan.
-Ron Wilkins, Pastor and City Councilman

Religion, by it's very nature, is about division, but that doesn't mean we can't be unified through spirituality - that is, embracing the actual teachings of the Messengers of each faith, as opposed to the interpretations (and flat out lies ) that religion has piled on top of the wisdom of the Messengers.
-Azikiwe Chandler, Experiential Learning Youth Program Leader

Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level, and beat you with their experience. –Brian Scholl, Customer Service Representative

He who truly searches for the truth will find it. Once it is found prepare to be changed forever.
–Brian E. Payne, Recruitment Coordinator/Manager and writer

The Black Man: See him. Hear him. Respect him. Love him.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by the irate black man on the train wanting to be
heard.

Dafur: What does a black life mean to the United States Government?

The United States government is not doing anything different from its past and present foreign policy. The government has always been slow to react to the killing of black people. Yes, the murder of 200,000 people in Sudan was committed by other black people. America calls this Black on black crime. However, is this any reason for the United States not to intervene? Do our leaders know that over 2 million people have been displaced? Do they know that our African brothers and sisters will surely be affected by malnutrition and disease as a result of the human displacement which will result in more death? One would think that President Bush would have more to say other than, “Sudan's Darfur region has the chance to "begin anew" but the situation there remains dire.” To his credit President Bush did announce that the U.S. would send food shipments to Darfur and he has asked Congress to approve $225 million in emergency funding. Now, my questions are, Why has it taken so long for the government to get involved? Is the $225 million enough? Allow me to address the first question: The United States government is too busy addressing their insecurities i.e. snooping around in Iran’s business. The United States government is over extended in a war that appears to have no ending in sight. The United States government is politicizing a decision on border security. This is what our elected officials are doing while black people are being slaughtered.

Should our government be concerned with the Dafur genocide? Remember, these are Africans killing Africans. Keep in mind the value of a Jewish life did not mean too much to the US government for a long time during the Holocaust. Millions of Jews were killed before America provided some level of assistance. So, I ask again why should the United States intervene in Sudan. Many of us would say that it is the right thing and humanitarian thing to do. However, the officials making the decision may not truly care if a Sudanese is killed or not. This is not something I want to believe, but it could certainly be the case.

Finally, I end this commentary with where I began: What does a black life mean to the United States? Before you answer please remember that the United States government has been responsible for killing its own citizens: Black Americans.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by my dead Sudanese brothers and sisters.

African American Health: Chitterlings should not be on the Kid’s Menu

Eating in the south can be a treat. Collard greens, ribs, ham, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, and peach cobbler are all delicacies of the south. One can not get enough of the good cook’in and eat’in we Southerners pride ourselves on. It is evident in the number of down-home style restaurants that are sprinkled throughout Dixieland. Unfortunately, it is also evident with our numerous health problems i.e. diabetes, obesity, heart disease, hypertension, clogged arteries, high cholesterol, etc.

Obesity throughout America has become an alarming issue with both youth and adults. It is like we are oblivious to the studies conducted that prove obesity is linked to psychological problems and unhealthy bodies. One of the YMCA of America’s slogans is along the lines of “We Take Care of the Mind, Body, and Spirit.” Within Black America this is not the holistic approach taken. We want to believe we are taking care of our spirits by going to church. We think that we are taking care of our minds by reading the bible and watching junk television e.g. MTV, BET, and soap operas. Now, when it comes to the body we are totally absent. Absent from eating right and working out.

On Saturday April 29th, I witnessed something that was not only disturbing, but pathetic. At one of the most famous southern style eating establishments in the Atlanta metro area, a mother purchased a bowl of chitterlings for her toddler. Yes, a toddler. He was cute, rambunctious, eager, and hungry. It was amazing to see a toddler sitting at a table eating chitterlings like he knew what he was eating. I stared so much that the mother rolled her eyes at me signaling to say, ‘What are you looking at? I feed my child what I want to.’ Of course I was appalled at the reality that a parent gave a child pork intestines to eat for dinner. I just believe partaking in the consumption of chitterlings is a decision the individual should make. Not a mother’s decision for her 2 year old child.

Now, don’t be mistaken I ain’t knocking no chitterling eating. I was just shocked to see the child reaching for the Texas Pete hot sauce! However, needless to say the entire scene gave me fuel for this commentary.

In my efforts to support, challenge, lovingly criticize, and inform Black America I have a few statistics for you to ponder or reconsider.

-Number one killer is heart disease (same for whites).

- The prevalence of diabetes among African Americans is about 70% higher than among
white Americans.

- Approximately 69 percent of African American women between the ages of 20 and 74 years of age are overweight and 39% are obese.

-Third leading cause of death is stroke.

-The manifestation of physical illnesses is related to mental health. It occurs at a rate of 15% among African Americans and only 9% among Caucasian Americans.

-44% of African American men are considered overweight and 24% are obese.

-Nearly half (49%) of African Americans have two or fewer servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

-One in three African Americans suffers from high blood pressure/hypertension.

-White Americans are more motivated to enter a fitness program than African Americans.

It is obvious the eating habits of African Americans are linked to poor health. It is up to us to educate each other when we can and serve as healthy eating and fitness role models for our children. Allowing your toddler to eat pig stomach is definitely not modeling health conscious behavior.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by our future, the black toddler.

Mary Magdalene, the wife of Jesus. Might she not have been the Church’s prostitute?

A few weeks ago, I emailed a photograph of the Lord's Supper to numerous friends and associates. Within my email I requested the following:

…I need for you to help me by telling me what you see when viewing the Lord's Supper portrait. We all know the obvious. Right? i.e. twelve disciples, Jesus in the
middle, table with food, a discussion is commencing, etc. Now, tell me what you see beyond these things.

Listed below are a few of the responses:

*I don't see any women.

*There is a woman to the right of Jesus.

*I see enough to know that the image that most people refer to as Jesus is a lie.

*The biggest impression this picture leaves on me is that this is a group that is not in harmony with each other.

*I see the traditional picture of the last supper that most of us ascribe to. However, I also see a Eurocentric view of Jesus and the disciples. I also see that Jesus is looking straight ahead, rather than at the disciples. That might just be to reflect his calm manner in the midst of all of the confusion. If I am correct, this picture is the point when Jesus stated, “tonight, one shall betray me.” The disciples were questioning who would do it. I don’t know which one is Judas (at least they didn’t make him black), but I know shortly after that, Satan entered him, and he left the room (for them to complete the supper).

*There appears to be an argument going on with ‘finger pointing’ and 'gesturing' between what looks to be 4 different groups of opinions. It looks that Jesus is trying to get the different opinions to come to some sort of compromise or mutual understanding. However, he doesn't look to be having much success in getting the group to come together.

*WHITE MEN!

*In all honesty, the only thing I see in this picture is great group discussion. We always wonder what everyone was talking about when Jesus prayed - maybe we can now start to speculate that Judas was not the only one involved in the deception of Jesus! All the disciples in this picture are engaged in some sort of conversation.

*There are windows and greenery outside. Daylight. One nationality
The people are not focused; they are holding conversations.
Where is the wine?

*When I take the time to look at this picture I see a group of white people with plenty of food to eat...they appear to be quite privileged.
*I see a gathering of white people, who appear to have adequate supplies of food strewn about the table. They look overweight, and are wearing nice clothes including shoes so they probably have a lot of money. They are also sitting in a nice house with
furniture, utensils decor etc so obviously their host is quite wealthy.

*I see 4 groups of 3 individuals each. To me, left to right, one group is listening to Jesus, the next group is whispering (not speaking openly) about or to him, the next group is talking to him and the last group is animated and talking out together about him. Each group is connected to Jesus and what he is saying and doing but each in a different way.

Now, the questions that I have been asked: Brian, what did you want me to see? What have you noticed that I have not? Well, after years of viewing the Lord Supper’s picture I must admit that I never noticed there is a WOMAN next to Jesus. Without question, within the portrait I emailed to my friends, and in numerous Lord Supper pictures I noticed that to Jesus’ right there is a FEMALE seated. I have asked myself several times how could I not notice this. The answer: I have been CONDITIONED to believe that the 12 disciples were male. I have also been TRAINED to believe that women did not have a significant leadership or higher status role during biblical times. So, why in the world would I have noticed that the female seated next to Jesus, who writers, professors, archeologists, anthropologists, historians, and scholars have determined through other legitimate sources i.e. purposely left out gospels, writings, etc. is Jesus’ wife, Mary Magdalene?

This is not new information. The book, Da Vinci Code revealed this to the world 3 years ago. It has also been a topic of discussion among religious scholars for years. However, the Da Vinci Code communicated this most successfully. I am certain the upcoming movie will spark some controversy, and it will disturb the peace of millions of Christian viewers.

I would like to pose the following questions: Should it disturb the peace of the faithful Christian? Is it important? Does it matter that Jesus could have been married?

I certainly believe various expressions of the truth should be considered by all who claim to believe in the divinity of Jesus. The process may reveal something to you that you never considered. It may just help you understand that the story of Jesus is multi-dimensional: clouded with uncertainty, false, beloved/revered by believer’s world-wide, altered to generate faith, and supported by the Christian elite to mind-control the masses.

Mary Magdalene, the wife of Jesus. Might she not have been the Church’s prostitute?

What are your thoughts?

For more information please visit - http://www.magdalene.org/intro.php.

To view The Lord's Supper potrait I used visit - http://www.keepsakes-etc.com/lasuwataha.html and click on the picture.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by Dan Brown, author of the Da Vinci Code, the Lord’s Supper portrait, and numerous friends.

I ain't never scared. Who are you fooling, black man?

Earlier this week I was forwarded an email from a friend. Usually, I do not open all of the forwards I receive. However, on this day the forward came from a good source. It came from someone who shares the same issues I face on a daily basis. This someone is a black man who is a wonderful father. He is involved in his community, and he has dedicated his life to a profession that is praised and devalued. He is a teacher.

Attached to the forward was a link to an article entitled, Plight Deepens for Black Men, Studies Warn. With this title I could not ignore it. I quickly started to read. After the first two paragraphs a heavy feeling of depression set in. I became semi-numb. The statistics listed were not only alarming they frighten me and encouraged me to write a brief sermon. The sermon you are about to read is a depiction of where many black men are today. Our lives are in disarray, shambles, in a mess. And, the future is scary. Who is going to lead us? What will happen to our children? When will we stop negatively reacting to our fears?

When will we understand that God approached the man in the beginning and asked “Where are you?” to help us make the decision to do RIGHT.

Genesis 3: 8-10

They heard the sound of the Lord walking through the Garden of Eden at the time of the evening breeze, and Adam along with Eve hid themselves from the presence of the Lord among the trees of the garden. But the Lord called to the man, Adam, and said to him, “Where are you?” He said, I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.

Adam’s mistake and disobedient behavior has caused significant damage to the human race. Due to his actions many of us cannot look in the mirror and be pleased with the reflection. We can’t because we see our polluted souls. We are polluted with all the things that have caused “the plight”. What are those things? Let me inform you by asking the black man four questions. The answers you read to the questions have been provided by three black men.

Question: What have we been hiding from?
Answer:
-Responsibility
-Righteousness
-Decision-making

Question: How have we been hiding?
Answer:
-Through arrogance
-Self-righteousness
-A deliberate and conscience misunderstanding and misinterpretation of the truth.

Question: When do we begin to hide?
Answer:
-When we know we are wrong, and it has been discovered.
-When we have no where else to hide. All of our believed “safe-havens” are used up.
-When we realize God is chasing us.

Question: Where do we hide?
Answer:
-In excessive drug and alcohol consumption.
-In wasteless spending.
-In unhealthy relationships.

Fear is defined: a feeling of alarm caused by awareness or expectation of danger.

What danger did Adam fear? Why was he so concerned about God’s reaction?
Did he know he was wrong? Was he ashamed of his nakedness? Did he expect to be punished?

Usually, when we are “in the wrong” we perfectly understand our actions will eventually cause some kind of negative consequence. For example, when we fail to be true fathers to our sons, we surely recognize there is a high possibility our sons will grow up lacking in the department of character. So, why do we continue this vicious cycle of generational curses? When speaking of a curse, one usually believes someone wished the curse upon them. In this situation we are primarily responsible for the repeated occurrences of the generational curse.

It is simply too easy for us to be mediocre. No one requires much from the man any longer. Women are settling for whatever approaches them, employers are hiring anyone that wants to make a quick dollar, and those who are not concerned with career development; our parents, particularly our fathers, are absence from our lives, so we don’t have an expectation from the father to be a good black man. In light of this, why not breeze right through life with no direction, no focus, no accountability, and no desire to implement change of the African American condition?

I will tell you why: This is not the black man’s purpose. We are not here to die without any connection to God’s ultimate plan for our lives.

We need to face fear head on even when we create the problem. We can do this with courage.

Courage, so often needed and desired, but rarely used. It takes a lot of effort and dedication to be courageous.

Muhammad Ali proved this when he told the American government, “I ain’t got no problem with a Vietcong”, after he was drafted to the United States Army.

Walter Rodney, former Prime Minister of Jamaica, set an example of this before he was brutally assassinated by an opposing group of the Jamaican government.

Patrice Lumumba, former Prime Minister of the Congo, resisted the European governments while fighting to unify and protect the African people.

My grandfather, Inky Payne, proved to be a man of courage as he worked for an organization in Thomasville, North Carolina who’s objective was to challenge the racist politically decisions of the local self appointed white leaders.

The black man has had numerous examples of what it takes to be a good man. Some of these examples were in the home and some were icons. So, we do not have much of an excuse. We have failed to use the examples to our benefit. We have ran from our issues instead of embracing them. When will we stop running?

The statistics support the following statement: We are running out of time.

“I Ain’t Never Scared” is a phrase in a rap song. It is not something the black man has lived by in the past twenty-thirty years. We have been scared for a long time. Again, the statistics support me. Yes, the system plays an ENORMOUS role in the demise of black men. However, I have to admit we have been the ones to continue with behavior we know is unbecoming and short of what God desires. I know this because I, myself, have and continue to run from God despite the understanding I have of what it takes to answer God’s call.

God did not create us to be fearful. He created a man in his image. God is not afraid. God is not shiftless and lazy. God is a great father, not a deadbeat. God is respectable. God is not uncaring. He is loving. God is not stubborn. He is humble. God is… No need for me to continue. The Black man knows what God represents.

Are you still scared?

Sermon written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by Patrick Medley, the dedicated teacher.