Your Eulogy

If you were to die today/tomorrow, what would your friends, love ones, enemies, and associates say about you?

When I thought about this question last weekend, for some reason yet to be determined,
my heart was racing. I literally thought I was having a heart attack. I do know atrial fibrillations are common– but I am uncertain if this flutter had anything to do with my heart ready to bounce out of my chest. Perhaps, it was anxiety. Dr. Singh (my Indian doctor with a Mumbai accent) will give his diagnosis early next week. Thank the Lord I can understand EVERY word he says!

For now, let’s discuss/think about death and dying. An avoided subject that I do not fear at all. I have been saying for a few years now, “If I die tomorrow, I must admit that I have had a pretty decent run.” If I believed in heaven or hell and had to guess where I would go when I die I would say that my ‘good deeds’ have helped prepare me a spot on the Right Side of Our Lord. Pearly Gates here I come!

I wonder if we can have this chat without someone referring to dying as passing, expiring, gone on to glory. I ask because I am of the belief that most Americans are completely uncomfortable with death (Figure that: afraid to go meet their Maker?). Therefore, regulating us to talking about “croaking” in abstract terminology.

Okay, let’s get started:

Eulogize yourself!

Death and Dying

“Although intellectually we all know that one day we shall die, generally we are so reluctant to think of our death that this knowledge does not touch our hearts, and we live our life as if we were going to be in this world forever.”

Could this be the reason we have difficulties dealing with the Final Exit?

Written by Brian E. Payne.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kN6Xt0o4cLQ&feature=email

Two Baby Daddy's

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=815272

Who ready to "pass judgment"?

But, I am curious:

Where is this woman's shame?

Giving interviews and crap...Once shame is gone morality suffers!

http://www.worldofstock.com/slides/TAF2470.jpg

Chemo, Religious Belief, Natural Remedy, or Death

"The Hausers are Catholic, but also believe in the natural healing philosophy of the Nemenhah Band, a Missouri-based religious group that believes in methods advocated by some American Indians. Colleen Hauser testified in court that she believed chemotherapy is a form of poison and that she had been trying to "starve" Daniel's cancer with supplements, an organic and sugar-free diet and high-alkaline water."

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-05-20-chemoboy_N.htm

When should COMMON SENSE trump FAITH?

Shared Brian E. Payne.

That Hat...

Remember when a hat was a hat? Remember when hats had a prestigious character if it looked worn? I can see the sweat ring and folded brim now. Those were the days when a hat added to the definition of one’s personality. Unlike today, hats have become flashy showpieces. The stickers indicating the size of the hat are not removed. The brim looks like a huge sun visor that belongs in a Yukon. They just look stupid! Those who wear these urban displays of vainness are the epitome of insecurity.

That last sentence alone is enough to turn people off. It basically regulates thousands of young people and adults who are still trying to be ‘Da Shyt’ (mostly black people, by the way) to what I have entitled, ‘Foolishness By Any Means Necessary’. Somewhat similar to this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pyW6w5B7Aw

A message to black people:

http://rlv.zcache.com/stop_embarrassing_me_black_people_tshirt-p235217533666516112qm73_400.jpg

However, foolishness has hit home. Literally.

My son, Judah, showed-up for his weekly visit with one of those dumb looking showpieces on his head. I could have died. Here is my son, wearing a hat with that glittery sticker and oversized A that’s suppose to indicate that he is an Atlanta Braves fan or city of Atlanta Admirer on it. I could have puked!

At that very moment, I wanted so desperately to snatch that ridiculous head garbage off his big dome and shake the new found coolness and urbanity out of him. Seriously, I wanted to destroy that damn hat and some way/some how block the inevitable boyhood machismo.

It definitely did not help my sanity that he insolently swaggered the entire visit with that God-awful hat on his head. He wore it while playing a game on his PSP that prompted him to say over and over again: “Oh, Snap!” That irritated me too. He even had the audacity to wear it while we spent time watching a sentimental episode of Extreme Makeover Home Edition. Imagine that: A ten year old with one of those stupid hats on his head and his conservative father, who was crying because of the show content, sitting hugged-up watching television. http://abc.go.com/primetime/xtremehome/index?pn=index&clipId=208722

I was so elated when it was time for Judah Mordecai to go back to his mother’s home. I could not take anymore of his new found gaudy debonairness. It actually was repugnant, in my 38 year old mind.

Witnessing my son become a different person as a result of an overpriced and overly garnished hat that I cannot under any circumstances refer to as a baseball cap was completely unbearable.

A baseball cap with character is the settle looking one above. Not, the tasteless looking attention grabber with fake diamonds in the shape of an A. So stupid!

What makes this commentary more than a father’s rant? Well, it was apparent that the hat gave Judah some level of weird confidence. Any hat with the capability to do that is DANGEROUS. How about he boastfully prance around over the A’s he earns each grading period? Also, for some reason Judah’s innocent expression jetted. With the hat on, he was Mr. Frown. Pretty much like the ‘hard dudes’ we see on the street corners in the middle of the day preparing for the penitentiary, http://wordofmorgan.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/thugs.jpg

No more pleasing smiles from the boy I help create? Right! That damn hat will come up missing the next time he comes over to Daddy’s place. And, if he is ever caught with his pants like this: http://pepetalk.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/0920baggy.jpg please prepare to read about me, Father Beats Son’s Azz Over Pants.

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by that STUPID AZZ HAT!

I am so attracted to MOTHERHOOD

Lisa Leslie on her career and being a mother. I just love her! So smart, dynamic at her craft, and sexy!

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=4156168

Hope EVERYONE had a great Mother's Day.

Shared by Brian E. Payne

http://rebellioussacrifice.blogspot.com/

Gay Times are High-Jacking Tradition

America is being literally high-jacked by liberal ideology. America is also the same far-right country that wants to ban abortion with its right-winged rhetoric. So, where are the middle voices when speaking of the assault traditionalism is enduring?

I am not homophobic. I am a black father concerned about the direction this country is headed. I am a black man who believes that marriage is a sacred bond that should benefit heterosexual couples.

The unfortunate move to change what is natural is another effort to further secularize America. Soon this Union will be unrecognizable: We have women raising boys to be punks. Cry babies. Whiners. Men by the numbers are standing in gay nightclub lines looking like thugs:

http://gossiboocrew.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/jjsexydude.jpg

Little girls wanting to be like the Eurocentric Barbie and little boys aspiring to be Lil Wayne:

http://www.merryswankster.com/images/LilWayne-thumb.jpg

Homosexuality and any other deviances from normalcy are like oil trying to mix with water. It is not a good concoction. It will never become one liquid.

The mere fact that these states Gay Marriage Rights: Where Is Gay Marriage Legal? are moving in this direction only supports what was NOT in the divine plan. Without overly referencing Christianity or the tool used to encourage robotic behavior (the Bible), one has to admit that what is RIGHT in this case is not SUBJECTIVE:

Marriage in all its complexities and joyfulness should remain in holy matrimony (the intended purpose).

Maybe I am too conservative. Perhaps, I should loosen up?

No way! I am going to stand with what is RIGHT/NATURAL. We know what I am conveying is not SUBECTIVE. So, let’s stop being Politically Correct – and speak out against what we will soon have to explain to our kids if the onslaught of liberalization continues.

Written by Brian E. Payne.

Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep/Our Father, who art in Heaven

Obama to be prayer day no-show - Washington Times

Well, I can understand why there is so much uproar over President Obama “nixing” the National Day of Prayer: President Bush showed his allegiance to the Christian-backed day of recognition for eight years.

This man (Obama) can’t get a break.

Not that I am in support of him getting a free pass. Nope! He needs to be intelligently scrutinized. He’s one of my employees! Nonetheless, if he would have participated in the breakfast and/or the service factions of our populace would have complained that his participation only supports faiths that ‘value’ prayer. In essence, stating that his allegiance is with Christianity. The last time I checked most religions and spiritual walks have some form of prayer/meditation/sending up good thoughts. Right? Perhaps, this is why some are offended.

If President Obama does not believe in prayer, as some columnist declared today, he is doing a great job of pretending. The pictures (above) can be used as proof that our president cherishes the practice. (Well, he could have been sleep in one photo).

He best BELIEVE in PRAYER...a lot of people are PRAYING for his black/white behind!

Lord, doesn’t he need it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AR4PQ30VkBk

Shared by Brian E. Payne

Recession Prompts Gender Role Reversal: Black Woman Slams Her Husband

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=7497859&page=1

I was hoping I heard the black lady incorrectly. I actually prayed while preparing my dinner that the sista was joking. No dice! Turns out this black lady said what she said. Of course, I waited a few minutes before I decided to blog about this. Then I calmed down. Then I got angry. Well, that's too strong of a word to describe my feelings. I was disappointed by her response. It, once again, validates what so many think of black women who have climbed the 'corporate ladder'.

What say you?

Shared by Brian E. Payne.

Mine that Bird and His Common Rider

For the first time in my complex life, I watched the Kentucky Derby. I decided to call one of my friends and tell him that I was watching; and in typical fashion he attempted to make me feel stupid by ridiculing me because I had never watched a group of horses that are forced to run around a dirt track, little men who are underpaid ride on the backs of million dollar horses, and a bunch of people, mostly Americans, stand around with enormous hats on (women) and men perpetrating in Seersucker suits. Of course, this dude’s efforts did not affect me one bit. But, his shallow insistence did encourage me to travel to Kentucky next year and ‘front’ like most of the people there. However, one thing will continue before I take off to the mid-west seeking a good party:

I will conduct more research on the two minute event e.g. its origins, previous black jockeys, and possible black owners of horses in the NTRA (National Thoroughbred Racing Association).

Mine That Bird shocks Derby at 50-1 - NTRA.

Speaking of black folk. I did see Michael Jordon there in a hideous suit and that big azz hoop earring. Michael Jordan Pictures - Celebrities At The Kentucky Derby - Zimbio. Why does he wear that ear piece? Ironically, his former trade’s championship game series is not the most watched sporting event in the United States. Not even the Super Bowl! The Kentucky Derby wins that honor. Guess what? That smart mouth dude who attempted to humiliate me did not know this.

At the end of the race I was hooked.

One thing that will not get lost in my partying when I go next May:

The Race

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjY-rrAoTl8 - (A thrilling TWO minutes)

Mine that Bird was determined to win! At the end of the day, Mine That Bird went down in history as the “Spoiler”. I prefer to call him The Horse that Had the Jockey who Wanted to Win - How a common man rode to greatness: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=2860738.

“A Common Man”

I like that. An average man from the country side of Louisiana won…while surely pleasing the high-rollers in the overpriced VIP sections. I will be outside the gates next year in a rented RV.

Written by Brian E. Payne.

Barbie is a Tramp...Now

Barbie, the baby doll icon, got rid of Ken last year seeking women's liberation; and now she is getting some ink. Believe me, I am not against conservative body art - but I am not in support of Mattel marketing an adult decision to kids. And, we complain about how 'grown' kids are today. Where is the outrage? I am tired...

http://www.myfoxboston.com/dpp/news/offbeat/Totally_Stylin_Tattoos_Barbie_030409

Brian E. Payne

The 100th Day Report Card

Today, our president receives his first “report card”. He has made it to the JUDGMENT benchmark of 100 days as President of the United States. Seems like yesterday he was getting tripped-up by Justice Roberts on that cold day back in January. Three months have passed! Many will shallowly say that he has done a remarkable job and others will begrudgingly state that he is taking this country straight to h*ll. Like we are not already there? If there are those out there that believe I am over exaggerating the present condition of Gomorrah I recommend that they think about the pot of unclean chitterlings that was passed to Mr. Obama. He inherited a bubble guts stomach ache, not from President Bush, but ultimately from the lawmakers who are of late notorious for turn coating (The Fix - Specter To Switch Parties) and eating a lot of pork Politicians LOVE Pork….Even John McCain! « WHAT IS GOING ON?. Okay, just to be fair I will add President Bush to the pig intestines. He did help intensify the worldwide hatred of the United States.

As we reflect this Wednesday on what is important I hope we will continue to be critical of all politicians. Including President Obama. His centennial celebration does include: fibbing and the neglect of campaign-hyped policy…which defines him as a politician. Perhaps, not the average – but he still in the position of ‘compromising’ so that his liberal agenda gets full attention and approval. However, President Obama has been SUCCESSFUL in quite a few areas of legislation. I, the unrelenting critic, cannot dispute that. It appears several people cannot criticize much.

Read what one of the best event promoters in this land of pop culture has to say about our Homeboy, President Barack Hussein Obama:

"Tomorrow marks Obama's 100th day in office. I wonder if in the quiet, still darkness of the night... in the small bathroom that no one uses downstairs in the White House... do you hear a man mumbling to himself in the mirror... "What were these people doing for the last 40 years??? I thought I knew, but I had no idea." Considering the bailout plan Bush created & started, Afghanistan, Iraq, the oil crisis, the economy, Fannie & Freddie, the Swine Flu, the real estate industry, the American Automotive industry, the energy crisis, Mexico, Cuba, natural disasters and the media... President Obama is "ice." Cooler than a polar bear's toe nails. If Bush, McCain and Palin were at the helm, do you still think Americans approval rating would be at 70%? Honestly people, regardless if you are an Obama supporter or not, if either one of the individuals I previously mentioned were in power, our morale level would be at an all time low. I have seen President Obama more times in 100 days then I saw Bush in 2007. He works so hard, I'm almost willing to bet my baby toe he has 3 clones. This man does more in an hour than I can do in a year. I salute our President, his efforts, his resilience, his vision and his "cooler than a polar bear's toe nails" demeanor. Because with everything going on at this very moment... McCain would have slipped into a deep depression and early stages of Alzheimer's.... then Sarah Palin would have been our president..... Yeah, I know.... that thought gave me a cold chill too."

I agree with JCarter, “President Obama is ICE.”

Something to think about in regards to perception:

Most Influential Person

Don’t be surprised…Brittany Spears and Tina Fey are more “influential” than two world leaders and the Jim Hendrix of rap, Lil drug infested Wayne, is in the top twelve. And, I can’t forget: a preacher made it in the top three. Wow! I knew I should have used my seminary education to gain notoriety …and to get rich.

Written by Brian E. Payne.

Inspired by The General of Sol-Fusion (http://www.sol-fusion.com/).

The Truth Hurts and PC Wins

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klT0aSRTuDQ

By now you have heard or read about some blonde chick standing up for her beliefs. In the recent past, we have heard some quite ignorant responses to the questions bias judges ask during beauty pageants. At least in this particular case, Miss California did something that is becoming a rarity: she told an unfiltered truth. She was not responding with the restraints that political correctness unfortunately produces. Miss California spoke her conscious, not what she thought would get her a prestigious title that many will forget about ten years from now. Instead, Carrie Prejean will be remembered because she stood her ground. She did not succumb to the PC-ness t hat has polluted honesty and integrity. I commend her, and condemn this fat gay guy who does nothing to advance the gay cause in America, Perez Hilton. His type of over the top flamboyancy typically hinders, and not advances. Who is this guy anyway? He can’t be the new spokesperson for Homosexuality in America. If he is…I now see why the ‘movement’ is leaderless and off-course.

While speaking of the course, Americans need to stop pretending that same sex marriage is a natural phenomena. It is not, and we KNOW it. But, what we have selected to do is unleash ‘un-definition’ within the ranks of established morals and values. We are pathetically willing to accept whatever makes us feel good. What’s easier. What does not hold us accountable. In all of this irresponsible liberalism, what we are approaching is complete cultural/societal disarray.

What will our kids recognize about what made America ‘decent’ at one time? Family is what we once could count on to uplift us, teach us, mold us, and ultimately make us feel a sense of security. What we have exchanged for this is not reflective of what some say God wanted:

Order

Same sex marriage is not within that confine. It is, actually, out of order.

The other opinion:

Miss California: An Unpopular Answer or a Bad Answer? Nsenga ...

I definitely welcome yours.

Written by Brian E. Payne.

http://theshadowseries.blogspot.com/

Stay tuned: The Penis is a Dummy (The Shadow Series)

Sponge Bob Got Back

Well, I was trying to have an uneventful night with my son, Judah. We decided to watch a little television. Something funny - but well within the decent category. We found some show on the Disney Network. I typically do not care for him to watch the 'kid friendly' stations for several reasons. One being: behaviors that I do not agree with are promoted and condoned. Like cross dressing and boys acting like girls. Yeah, I now 'minor'. But, I have had the unwanted task of explaining to my son why two men were French kissing out in public at the infamous Lenox Mall in Atlanta a year or so ago. Anyway, while we watched television Judah and I got excited when we noticed that Sponge Bob was featured in a new Burger King commercial. Sadly, Judah's excitement dwindled when we watched the following (link below - extended version).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5X4TSbGreA

He was so disappointed.

On both occasions (the gay kiss and the bouncing butts), Judah said to me, "Dad, that is not appropriate."

What are your thoughts about the commercial?

Written by Brian E. Payne.

Tea, Talk, and Protest

When I was a Peace Corps volunteer I learned a great deal. I can go on and on with all the treasures that I acquired and brought back to the United States. Not that I was void when I joined the infamous Eastern Caribbean training group (EC 60) – but I was sadly naïve.

One of the most beneficial influences there was the learned behavior of ‘taking it easy’ with the assistances of Earl Grey. Drinking tea became a ritual. Imagine that, a southern boy partaking in a British past time! My morning began with tea. My afternoon concluded with tea and conversations. Long conversations that never failed to address world affairs. I loved the combination: Tea and mouth chatter.

Last week proved to many that there was a need for TEA and a lot of rhetoric. Over 700 tea parties around the United States. Crowds of 10,000 or more. People from all walks of life: young, old, white, white, men, and women. All were mentally consumed with one mission: PROTEST. The age old opportunity to communicate to the powers that ‘we the people’ are unhappy. Disappointed. Disgruntled. And, growing with dissension

(http://www.teapartyday.com/Map.aspx).

While I am a passionate supporter of political dissent that’s responsible and purpose driven, I just could not understand why these folk suddenly decided to voice their concerns all on the same day. Smells funny to me. Some say that the ‘campaign’ to send a message was a grassroots effort. Isn’t that ironic? The Right aligning themselves with grassroots activities? Really? Who buys that crap? We all know that the conservatives, republicans, and ultra right-wingers rarely go to the people to implore them to speak for them. (Well, they did effectively utilize the Ku Klux Klan -- Extremism in America.) Their counter tactics have always begun from the confines of their unyielding and moral high ground politics. Not from some mid-westerner who is upset about a job loss. This act of opposition is reserved for America’s stepchildren e.g. blacks, gays, and women.

But, perhaps things are changing? Are these culturally insulated people finally understanding that government has never been on their side? Have they finally begun to conceptualize that those on the disenfranchised left have been left out? No…say it ain’t so! They are not just realizing that tax increases have the ability to handicap communities? Their trailer parks?

When I visually examined the crowds in state owned parks and on the steps of state capital buildings I could not make many distinctions. However, one element did pop into my brain:

Perhaps, the United States government’s elected officials will listen now. Their distant cousins are now being affected (Billy Bob).

But, reality set in. And, here it is

Taxes have been raised by lying presidents (all of them including President Obama) that I have been blessed to witness walk into the White House – but these pissed-off folk have NEVER orchestrated a day to protest legalized rip-offs since Boston. Makes one wonder what the real frustration could be.

And, now that the Right has no serious plan to combat the Left they have decided to be organized critics of their own system. Actually, it is a clever move: Get the people on one accord under the cloak of ‘we are prepared to do right by you now’.

Who is falling for this?

Well, it is obvious. Look at Grand Wizard Sean Hannity’s sponsored TEA Party protest:

http://pajamasmedia.com/instapundit/files/2009/03/teapartycincy2.jpg

A lot of people, right?

All those people are prepared to kick Barack Obama out of office without understanding that their taxes would have been raised by John McCain too. Do they know this? I believe that they do. This growing whitewashed and extremist radicalism (a fearful reaction to impending ‘White Slavery’) is in response to the BLACK change that they are not psychologically prepared to embrace.

Tax increase is not the change. It is the standard: Happens all the time.

Have you looked at your utility bill lately?

Written by Brian E. Payne. Inspired by Ada B.

Barack and Hugo: The Handshake

Why in world didn't President Obama tell his staff to keep him away from Hugo Chavez? He gonna take some hits for this one. H*ll, he under the microscope anyway - but a picture with a man who throws ridiculous insults and who is seen by many as a lunatic. Not that I agree. Actually, when Chavez is not spitting fire he has legitimate criticism of the GREAT UNITED STATES that I agree with!

Let the conservative anti-Obama begin...again.

Stay tuned. It will be something else next week. Want some TEA?

Written by Brian E. Payne

An Eye for an Eye...Literally

Woman blinded by acid wants same fate for attacker - CNN.com

How do you feel about "biblical justice"?

If used in the United States would it lower crime rates? It appears to me in the US that the fear of going to prison is somewhat non-existent for many.

Justice?

http://www.javno.com/en-world/iran-orders-man-blinded-for-acid-attack---report_208309

http://www.hyscience.com/photos/iran_eye_3.jpg

Shared by Brian E. Payne

A Father Passing on the RIGHT PLAYS

As I have said time and time again:

The black man has more on his mind these days. Hell, he always has. Unfortunately, they have never asked: What do you think/believe? - in a way to get the REAL answer. But, here on this blog which is dedicated to TRUTH, the Black Man does not have to wait to be asked. He speaks and he ain't PLAYING:

Last night my wonderful girlfriend made a very innocent comment that pierced my soul and provoked me to go into a "speech" laced with emotion. Yes, we do have Emotions. Yes, some of us are passionate about our roles and responsibilities as parents.

Her comment:

"I find it hard to believe that you have not taught your son how to PLAY basketball." Look at Michael Jordan. He has passed on his craft to his sons."

My blood began to boil. I probably need therapy, as most Black Men do to help deal with these emotions and experiences that were never digested properly as a child, and continue to be a part of my fabric to this day. Yes, I PLAYED basketball. I was named an ALL-STAR my first year on an organized team at age eleven. I earned 3 full scholarships running up and down courts on the eastern shore of the United States. I made many associates, had plenty of admirers, learned the value of: discipline, teamwork, sacrifice, goal setting, hard work, and sportsmanship all which have proven to be positives in my life. In the end Basketball did not PLAY me as it has far too many black males in our country.

I discovered years ago that too many black males are pushed, influenced, and even expected to play sports to fulfill the dreams and entertainment desires of others.

As for Michael Jordan.......................He is simply the greatest basketball PLAYER of all time. I choose not to hold him or sports up to the following people and their causes: Mary McCloud Bethune, Thurgood Marshall, Harriet Tubman, Shaka Zulu, Muhammad Ali, Dr. Ben Carson, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - all adorn my son's bedroom wall and bookshelf.

More importantly, I choose to influence my child to learn about and believe in God. I attempt to "train him and run drills" on how to be a good citizen, open doors for ladies, say thank you to teachers, compliment his neighbor, local mechanic, and the teenagers working the cash registers throughout the community. None of these people may ever become famous or gain financial riches for their crafts yet they contribute something more than 2-3 hours of entertainment as most sports and athletes do.
What am I really saying?

For those parents who really care about teaching our kids (especially black males) what and how to PLAY; PLEASE consider the following avenues: Education, Citizenship, Responsibility, Accountability, Spirituality, Carpentry, Masonry, Medicine, Electronics, and Entrepreneurship. Determination and practice in these areas will help prepare them to PLAY a much bigger game. The game of LIFE!

Written by Patrick Medley.

http://www.mochadad.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/thefuturebywak.jpg

Let the Praises Commence

3 'phenomenal shots' ended pirate hostage crisis - CNN.com

We should expect to receive an onslaught of media coverage that will honor the specially trained and highly disciplined covert tactic group, US Navy Seals. The military is also experiencing a surge in web site hits. All of this attention will keep the Captain of Maersk Alabama in the news too. We should be prepared to watch his first primetime interview with Charles Gibson or some other popular news anchor. He will receive an award for bravery. Commendations from the navy. H*ll, President Obama, the man who gave an order to shoot the Somali pirates if visible danger was imminent, has already called Captain Phillips congratulating him on his heroic actions.

What will be forgotten are the men who were more than likely under orders of a deranged militia leader. Men who probably have not reached the age of 20. Men who were likely taken under a controlling spell at the age of 13. They are better known as Child Soldiers.

“Approximately 250,000 children under the age of 18 are thought to be fighting in conflicts around the world, and hundreds of thousands more are members of armed forces who could be sent into combat at any time.” -Amnesty International

As we (Americans), go about our week, we will also fail to acknowledge the possible reason why this piracy activity is taking place:

A Desperate Attempt of African Retribution

Whether we want to admit it or not, there are men and women all across this world who believe that the United States and its destructively “evil” cohort, Europe, are deserving of any illegal and/or deadly reprisal as a result of their pillage of African nations. Even the perpetrators feel justified in their, in many cases, asininely backwards actions.

While I do not condone the behavior, I do understand where the ‘get-back’ impetus stems. When I think of what Africa could have been, I think about all the white men who have capitalized off the welcoming spirit and the humble nature of African people. These men have stolen land and assets that they have used in many cases to pit one African ethnic group against another.

No, this (child soldiers/understandable African retaliation) will not be discussed this week. Instead the American people will be flooded with misplaced heroism, additional military recruitment ads, and glorification of US bravado.

I ain’t falling for it!

Written by Brian E. Payne.

Every year I have something to say about the celebrated resurrection of Jesus Christ. My words have been viewed as cynical, disrespectful, and overwhelmingly insulting. Of course, I have in turn defensively described my sentiments as my truth. My beliefs. My understanding. While ‘telling it like it is’ I have isolated myself becoming a lone man on a theological island that, in truth, has become drastically lonely.

Feeling alone is not a good feeling. It leads to a depression that fluctuates from moderate to severe – but this Easter season I am not lonely. I actually feel like I am standing with countless brave people. I have ‘balls’ as a result of this like-minded support. But, I do not have joyous feelings about this considering what is occurring domestically.

In the latest edition of Newsweek http://www.newsweek.com/id/192583, writer Jon Meacham, states that Christianity and its influence is losing substance and legitimacy among America’s latest and most recent generations. He also says that the Christian Right has lost its battle against same sex marriage, abortion, and school prayer (lost that fight a long time ago). And, to be quite frank these are battles I wish in some ways would have never been lost. Well, praying in school was never something I supported. Nonetheless, the Lefts strong-arm ability to regulate abortion to a meaningless ‘choice’ and their successful efforts to defy God’s marital union has done nothing but change the divine script God supposedly set-forth.

Not that killing babies and same sex persons getting married is my defiant ax to grind. Really, it is not. However, we (Homo sapiens) have allowed a mechanism that forged my moral character to dwindle. Christianity has become irrelevant to many. It is a non-issue. The question bishops, pastors, and other Believers should be asking is, Why? Why does Newsweek’s cover read:

The Decline and Fall of Christian America

In my typical cynicism, I must declare that the last word in the cover’s title is the problem:

AMERICA

This country has taken too many wrong turns. In effect, altering the precious landscape that was envied by most nations. Now, we are nothing more than an embarrassed bully trying to rearrange a mess. A mess, Christianity in its most useful form (character development, and not the belief pushing of myths e.g. He Rose) cannot shake…thus the reason its usefulness has become useless.

Another Easter…some will relentlessly celebrate what Mary Magdalene - John 20:14 was first to witness (allegedly) while others will share the morals Christianity once was able to solidify in MOST humans.

Written by Brian E. Payne.

http://www.amazon.com/Exposing-Christianity-Sharing-Alternative-Churchs/dp/142419413X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1239408142&sr=1-1

Thangs Have Changed in the White House...fo sho!

I shared the pictures above with mostly women expecting to only humor someone's day.

I guess I did that - but you know me...Mr. Too Damn Serious. Mr. Gotta Have a Discussion.

What came next:

I have been privy to several female discussions in person and on line where women still spread/acknowledge the following sentiment:

Size really does not matter that much.

However, I have noticed that there has been a major shift in that thinking/desire among women too:

Size does matter.

Okay, if sizes does not matter, why in the h*ll do women purchase and use HUGE fake ding-a-lings? I forgot what they are called until I Googled 'fake penis' and found:

http://images.asia.ru/img/alibaba/photo/51510924/Sex_Toy.jpg. LOL!

Okay, if size does not matter, why are so many women within the confines of these revealing discussions disappointingly articulating that "it is too little for me"?

Also, with the overwhelming number of sex toy parties (items for sale) that are flooded with single women and married women who claim that they are using the old faithful (dildo, magic bullet, etc.) instead of sex-ing a man, brings me back to my known thought for years:

Men are not sexually satisfying women.

Hope I am doing my job: Slinging with help from:

http://image.examiner.com/images/blog/wysiwyg/image/guinness%5B1%5D(1).jpg