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If I could only have the heart of the Samaritan. (My perspective)

Luke 17:11-19 (New International Version)

Ten Healed of Leprosy
11Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy[a]met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!"

14When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed.

15One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.

16He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.

17Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" 19Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well."

Day 2 in South Carolina has been an awesome day. The weather here is so beautiful that it causes you to simply stop and bath in its Glory. It really does make you aware that someone greater than you and I is responsible for this.

So by now, you are asking yourself why the scripture, to open the blog? Well, this was todays Gospel. Today I attended church with my friends Cameron and Wess. They identify as Episcopalian. This is the second time since we have been friends that I have worshiped with them, and every time I attend church with them, I fall deeper in love with the Episcopalian faith. Today, we attended St. Stephens Parish here in Charleston, SC. www.ststephenscharleston.org The church was recommended by their Bishop in Knoxville, TN.

The liturgy that was giving by the priest was phenomenal. This story is a very profound story in the bible. This is the story of 10 men who were afflicted with leprosy (the concordance will say that they didn’t have leprosy but they had a disease of the skin). The 10 men have an encounter with Jesus as he is making his way into Jerusalem. (First, important fact: Whenever there is an encounter with Jesus you should expect to never be the same.) The cry out to him from a distance “Jesus, have mercy on us!” (Second important fact: you can cry out to him from wherever you are. You are never to far from God, for him to change your circumstances.)

The story goes on to explain that Jesus advised the men “to go show yourselves unto the priest”, the scripture continues to tell us that “and as they did they were cleaned.” (Third important fact: He will do what he said, he will do.)
But, the Juice of the scripture comes when we look at the adoration and gratitude the men had for what Jesus had just done for them. These 10 men had been living with leprosy, and if you know anything about biblical times, you understand that living with leprosy was the worse thing that could happen. A lepor was cast from civilization, in most places they were not even allowed into the village. So here we find these lepords who have been afflicted all of their lives, and treated like third class citizens, and in the matter of one simple cry-out to Jesus they were healed of their affliction.

The scripture goes on to say that of the 10 only 1 returned with adoration and gratitude to Jesus for what he had done. WOW, are you kidding me! Only 1 was grateful and humble enough to go back to the source of his healing, and say thank you. This 1 lepor was also a Samaritan; he was the one that should not have been as grateful as he was. In the scripture Jesus identified him as the “foreigner.”
So as I listened to the sermon this morning, I stopped and thought about the times I asked God to do something for me, and when he did it. I don’t ever remember saying “Thank You.” How many times do you wake up and put your feet on the ground, without taking a few minutes to simply say “Lord, I thank you for today’s awakening.” I’m guilty, I don’t do it everyday. It should be a daily. I’m thankful for the sun, the rain, the dirt, the sounds of birds; because it simply could have been me who was lacking the ability to experience those things. I am grateful for being chosen to live on this planet that God in his wisdom called Earth. Can you imagine what it would be like to be on Mars, and looking at Earth? LOL!

Don’t be like the 9 and become arrogant. Be the odd man out, and remain humble when God blesses you. Remember to give him all the adoration, he is due. You gotta dance with the one who brought you boo!

Sorry if my grammar is incorrect, and off, but when this hit me, I had to get it off my chest.

Live, Laugh, and Love as much as you can!

Kindrick

I made it!

East coast baby! I made it to the east coast, all I can say is WOW! South Carolina is beautiful.

At the beginning of this year, I made a vow to myself that in this my 30th year of walking on earth, I would step outside of my comfort zone, and experience as many things as possible. I have had more than a few speed bumps that have kept me from jet setting, or simply getting in my car and taking a drive.

But, today I am very proud of myself. Inspite of a few mishaps I followed through with my instinct and I am sooo glad that I did. This is the get-away that I needed, and that I deserved. Its going to be so nice to fall asleep with the sound of the beach.

OVERWHELMED

The last week has been a very busy, busy week for me. I have worked, been in meetings, done planning sessions, and many, many other things. I am sitting here looking at my calendar for this coming week, and the only thing that I can see for me is the time that I have sat aside to watch Glee on Tuesday night. Other than that my time will be spent at work, doing homework, and dabbing in a few other little projects that I am currently consumed by.

Needless to say, I am overwhelmed, or am I? Tonight on my drive home, I began to think about that statement "I'm overwhelmed." Am I really overwhelmed or have I managed to be consumed by my emotions, which have placed me in a comfortable position to complain. Hmmm, I confess! I think that I have allowed my emotions to get the best of me, and that I have chosen to sit comfortable in the whiners corner and complain. See, I understand through my self-reflection that what I am feeling is not overwhelmed, it might be tired at the most but most definitely not overwhelmed.

Overwhelmed describes the feelings of the citizens of Pakistan who many are still without descent shelter weeks after a flood. Overwhelmed, is the mother who will place her child 6 feet under the ground because she has no way of feeding them. Overwhelmed, is the family who has lost their home, and their way of life as they know it is no longer the same. Overwhelmed is the person who just found out that their life will never be the same, because some terminal illness has chosen to reside in their body.

At this very moment choose to put aside my complainers cap, and embrace the things that are necessary for me to become the individual and being that I am destined to be. No longer will I complain. I will speak life-positive words into my situations.

Excuse my grammar and punctuation errors, but I had to get this typed because it just would not let me be.

Good night!

Live well, Laugh often, and Love much!

Kindrick

Happy Labor Day!

Labor day is not officially here, but many of us have already began to celebrate. I pose a very important question? What do you know about Labor day? Do you know the history of Labor day? How and why it has become the holiday that it is? Well, if you do not know, you have come to the right place.

Labor Day: How it Came About; What it Means

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

Founder of Labor Day

More than 100 years after the first Labor Day observance, there is still some doubt as to who first proposed the holiday for workers.
Some records show that Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a cofounder of the American Federation of Labor, was first in suggesting a day to honor those "who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold."

But Peter McGuire's place in Labor Day history has not gone unchallenged. Many believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, not Peter McGuire, founded the holiday. Recent research seems to support the contention that Matthew Maguire, later the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., proposed the holiday in 1882 while serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. What is clear is that the Central Labor Union adopted a Labor Day proposal and appointed a committee to plan a demonstration and picnic.

The First Labor Day

The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, 1883.
In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday, as originally proposed, and the Central Labor Union urged similar organizations in other cities to follow the example of New York and celebrate a "workingmen's holiday" on that date. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and in 1885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country.

Labor Day Legislation

Through the years the nation gave increasing emphasis to Labor Day. The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed during 1885 and 1886. From them developed the movement to secure state legislation. The first state bill was introduced into the New York legislature, but the first to become law was passed by Oregon on February 21, 1887. During the year four more states — Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York — created the Labor Day holiday by legislative enactment. By the end of the decade Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 other states had adopted the holiday in honor of workers, and on June 28 of that year, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories.

A Nationwide Holiday

The form that the observance and celebration of Labor Day should take were outlined in the first proposal of the holiday — a street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations" of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families. This became the pattern for the celebrations of Labor Day. Speeches by prominent men and women were introduced later, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civic significance of the holiday. Still later, by a resolution of the American Federation of Labor convention of 1909, the Sunday preceding Labor Day was adopted as Labor Sunday and dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement.

The character of the Labor Day celebration has undergone a change in recent years, especially in large industrial centers where mass displays and huge parades have proved a problem. This change, however, is more a shift in emphasis and medium of expression. Labor Day addresses by leading union officials, industrialists, educators, clerics and government officials are given wide coverage in newspapers, radio, and television.

The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation's strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker.

http://www.dol.gov/opa/aboutdol/laborday.htm Accessed: September 4, 2010

I am spending my weekend camping with some friends. It is very, very, very quiet, and peaceful. I took a minute from my studies so that I could blog with you for a minute. I sooooo needed this rest and relaxation, after I finish reading this chapter for class, I will be able to do absolutely nothing but have a good time. YAY!

I won't keep you from your Labor day festivities, but thanks for dropping in and giving me a read. Have a Safe and very Happy Labor day!

Live, Love, and Laugh as much as you can this weekend.

Kindrick

Wold you have told Sammi?

It has been a long time since I have visited you. I apologize about my neglect. Tonight, I watched MTV's Jersey Shore and the show visited the topic of, Should you tell a friend if you knew that his or her, boyfriend or girlfriend is cheating on them?

Background: Last year MTV in its creative genious decided to follow 7 lives as they enjoyed a summer on the Jersey shore. All of the 7 are Italian young adults who live in New Jersey. The show was filled with long nights of partying, occasional fights among roommates, a drama filled showmance that has carried into season 2, and last but most definitely not least, the show even touched on physical abuse of women, when "Shnooki", was attacked in a bar by a random male customer.

This season MTV relocated the show to Miami, and the show has been filled with Drama, Clubbing, random sex, Drama, clubbing, random sex, and well, you get the point. Now enter, the subjects of this blog. Ronnie and Sammi are two young adults who started dating on the first season of the show. After the first season of the show it was reported that they were breaking up. You can read more about that by googling their names. Now, the second season of the show has started and at the begining of the season they were not really speaking to one another, however, like CARELESS adults, they made a decision to try dating again, and have been fighting ever since.

NOW OUR FEATURE PRESENTATION: Ever since the decision was made that they were going to get back together Ronnie has been "doing him". One night in a club he double kissed two girls, he gave his phone number to some shot girl, and there are even internet rumors circulating that he has "hooked-up" with girls in restrooms. Now, there would be no issue here if he was alone, but to behave in the fashion and manner that he has been behaving in front of other women who live in the same house, and are friends with his girlfriend, is out right bold! This man thinks he is on top of his game. SIDE COMMENTARY: Men always think that women are stupid and that women will never stand up for one another. (BUZZ) That is where men make their mistake. Yes, there are a few women who will side with men, but those women are women who have no choice. (THINK ABOUT IT) Ladies, will always have their girlfriends back. So now back to our drama, on one of their nights out Shnooki was witness to Ronnies shananigans, and felt really bad that she had seen him behave the way he did, and then he went home and crawled right into bed with Sammi. So fast forward a few episodes, Shnooki and another female in the house, J WOW, yes that is her name, decided that it would be a good idea to write Sammi an annonymous letter explaining to her what they have seen.

The two girls wrote the letter, and decided to drop it in her drawer with her belongings for her to find. On tonights episode she found the letter, and I will not entertain her stupidy of asking people who wrote the letter. She was more concerned with who wrote the letter, than she was with the facts that were outlined in the letter.

Her behavior leads me to my question, "Would you tell a friend if you knew their boyfriend or girlfriend was cheating?" My answer is, NO! I would not tell a friend if I knew that he or she was being cheated on, and here is why. There is no way that anyone who is being cheated on can say that they are completely blind to it. Cheaters can only cover up their lie, for so long, after a while it begins to fall apart, and the other person in the relationship if they are on their game can pick-up easily on what's going on.

I believe that we are in a day and age, where people believe that some companionship is better than none at all, and this is a sad realization of our society. I have always heard my girlfriends say "I am better off alone." The truth is that you really can do bad all by yourself. You dont need no other monkey to bring you down. Sammi, handled herself very immaturely in this situation. Who cares who wrote the letter. Deal with the issues in the letter, becasue those issues hurt you. The fact that somewhat wrote a letter to you is not the issue, but because she is so scared to deal with her issues, she is on a witch hunt for someone who was trying to save her from embarassment. I honestly think she more upset about the letter, than she was about the night Ronnie called her a "bitch." (Yes he is sick, but she is off the deep end. His mama would have gotten a call that would have been telling her to get her black dress ready.)

So my advice to you is to NOT tell your friends if you know. Most people will turn it against you and say that you are using it for your own personal gratification, and will do everything in their power to remove your credibility.

A victim is someone who allows themselves to continuously be put through the same circus with the same results. A dear friend of mine also says that this is the same definition of insanity. Its amazing how these two states of being go hand-in-hand.

There are probably some parts of this blog that dont make too much sense, but feel free to email me with your questions, comments, and concerns.

Remember to Live, Love, and Laugh!

Kindrick

Photo Referenced from http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://bumpshack.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/ronnie-sammi-break-up-jersey-shore-photos.jpg&imgrefurl=http://bumpshack.com/2010/01/22/jersey-shore-reunion-ronnie-sammi-break-up-still-together-photos/&usg=__mcV-OQ7Yf3E7MXb0hLQqX2hkZyQ=&h=240&w=320&sz=32&hl=en&start=0&zoom=1&tbnid=bXMJszFPzrqaNM:&tbnh=120&tbnw=168&prev=/images%3Fq%3DRonnie%2Band%2BSammi%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26biw%3D1419%26bih%3D706%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=122&vpy=108&dur=3058&hovh=192&hovw=256&tx=122&ty=152&ei=3TJ3TNO2AYT78AaK5-32BQ&oei=3TJ3TNO2AYT78AaK5-32BQ&esq=1&page=1&ndsp=34&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0 Accessed 8/26/2010

NOLA RED DRESS RUN 2010

So this year I participated in the NOLA Red Dress Run...Man oh Man! We Louisianians know how to pass a good time. All I can say is that the event was a Success there were 6000+ people in attendance. I have never seen soooo much Red, and who would have ever thought that there were so many different makes of Red Dresses. Anyways, here are a few pics, enjoy. Go to http://nolareddress.tumblr.com/ to get information so that you can be there for next year.

What do you believe?

Good evening blog boddies!

Today, I received an email from a fan. YAY! I have fans, who would have thought. In his email he stated that he enjoyed reading my blog, and he had been checking for new post but had not heard from me. I replied to him letting him know that I usually only speak when I have something to say, and BOY OH BOY, have I got something to say. There are a few hot topics pressing my mind right now, but let me go for the hottest of them all. Let me share with you my OPINION in regards to all the hype surrounding the Community center which will be built a few blocks from ground zero, and has got a number of people in America in a knot.

First of all, I dont call this a controversy, because there is not controversial regarding this issue. The issue is that a group of Islamic Americans have managed to secure funding to establish a community center that will serve the youth of New York city. Other people in America have changed this into a group of "radical islamist" are planning to construct a mosque a few blocks from ground zero. No, its a community center that will house a prayer room. (LETS MAKE IT CLEAR!)

Secondly, these people have murdered my ears with talking about how sacred ground zero is, but have they checked the listing of businesses with-in a walking distance of ground zero, OF COURSE NOT. It has now become acceptable for people to just rattle of their brain anything and the American public does not fact check it. Granted, most of the American, public couldnt give you the physical adress of Ground Zero. Anyways, there is a STRIP joint a few feet away from ground zero, but you dont hear anybody complaining about how disrespectful that is to the lives lost at the world trade center. Would we allow a strip joint to open next to a grave yard, well truth be told in America it might just pass.

Last but most definitely not least. I honestly feel that if when you pray, God picks up the phone and asks "Who is this?", you shouldnt be complaining about this issue. How is that people who have strayed away from their own faith, have placed themselves in a position to determine, whats acceptable for another persons faith. The time you are waisting on fighting these people and their accomplishments, you could be spending on reaquainting yourself with your God. Also, if you are as much of a christian as you proclaim to be, then I am sure you have read the scriptures in the bible that refers to Compassion, and Love for others. Those are basic biblical principles and God did not say that we had any discression of who we wanted to share his love with. We have to apply it to ALL!

I have not always been treated fairly by everyone who proclaimed to love Christ. In elementary school a nun told me that she didnt understand why "ya'll prodestant kids are allowed to go to school here." I looked at her and replied, "maybe its because we pay more." She was not very happy with my response. Later, in life I am judged by people who think they know me, who tell me that there is no way I can be me and have a relationship with God. Hmmm, no wonder why people dont go to church, its not really a friendly place.

I have alot more to share...New Orleans Red Dress Run, EAT PRAY LOVE, and maybe I will share a secret.

LIVE, LOVE, AND LAUGH!

Kindrick

Its like a Heat Wave!

So today is August 2, and currently the temperature here in Southwest Louisiana is sitting at a steady 100 degrees, however the heat index has the temperature feeling at a oppressing 110 degrees.

The scary thing about this whole thing is that this is only the second day of August. Yes, I hate to advise you but you have 29 more days of this oppressing heat to live through. However, I am very grateful that I have my new car for this heat wave. If I would have been driving my old car during this heat wave I would look like an obessed stripper who worked his money maker too hard on the pole. So I am very grateful for my Optima. Long live the buick, may she rest in peace.

Anyways, in other news I was told a week ago that I have lost an amazing 23 pounds thanks to this miracle drug that I am on for my type 2 diabetes. How does it feel to be 23 pounds lighter? Ummm, Im hungry dang it! But, all jokes aside I am very happy with the progress I am making towards being a size healthy. Wait, speaking of heat, how do these people expect me to participate in the New Orleans Red Dress run in all of this heat? OMG! I have a feeling that I am going to be watching from the side line. :-))))

Well folks, I have chicken in the oven, and homework that I need to be tending to. I have to sign off. As always, remember to Live well, Laugh hard, and Love often. (Yea, I changed it on you.)

Kindrick

RAINBOWGATE

Recently, most of us have all been made aware of a video that surfaced on youtube. The video is the reaction of youtube user Hungrybear9562, to a double rainbow. In the video he begans to verbally and emotionally express his gratitude for the double rainbow. The video has had over 5 million views. Take a look for yourself.



I am upset that most americans think that there is something "crazy" about his reaction to the rainbow. His reaction to the rainbow is simply his way of thanking God for the gift of the rainbow. Times have most definitely changed. We now think that someone is crazy or insane because they are overhwelmed by the works of God. Yet, if you cheer and scream at your tv during a ball game at some guy who makes millions of dollars you are normal. Hmmmm, things are twisted to say the least.

This video reminded me to appreciate the simple things in life even more. When was the last time you sat and enjoyed the rain. Rain symbolizes the cleansing of the soul, mind, and iniquities. I think that if we all took the time to appreciate the small things more we would all be in a better place. Its also important to remember that the rainbow is there to remind us of the convenant that God made with us and all creatures of the earth that he would not destroy the earth by flood again.

"I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth. And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: And I will remember my covenant, which [is] between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that [is] upon the earth. " (Genesis 9:13-16, KJV)


Live well, Laugh often, and Love much!

Kindrick

I once heard someone use an expression that said "life is a school house, and without the use of any text books, or lesson plans, it will teach you valuable lessons." I am amazed at how there is always an opportunity to learn something new in all experiences. I am sitting in the comfort of my living room, and thinking to myself "WOW! For all the uncomfort that I experienced this weekend, I learned a valuable lesson." I won't share the details of my experience with you, but I will share one thing that I learned about myself this weekend. This weekend I learned that I should be celebrated and not simply tolerated.

As people we should surround ourselves with people who celebrate us, and dont simply tolerate us. The people who celebrate us are the people who understand us in our fullness. They understand our strengths, weaknesses, and are willing to love us no matter what. Check the people in your camp!

Just to let you know, I spent my weekend in New Orleans. OMG, the city is beautiful. The city is alive and full of the hustle and bustle of tourists, and those beautiful people who call New Orleans home. New Orleans, is a place that can be very challenging on the soul. But, if you are able to look pass the shinanigans, you will experience the true beauty of the city. I love New Orleans, for its live music, its begniets, and the ability to simply sit and watch the Mississipi river as she silently flows into the gulf of mexico. I am glad to see the city rebuilding, and its people living in a continuous revival state of mind. Long live New Orleans and its people!

Reality Check - The Bachelor & Bachelorette

Good Morning blog buddies! It’s been a while since we have chatted, but believe it or not sometimes I really appreciate my silence. Yesterday was the 5th of July, and I used the day to rest, and catch up on some much needed R&R. I avoided all social media outlets, and for the most part watched a minimum amount of the television. However, I ended up watching a marathon of the A&E series Intervention, which is a very good show. For those of you who don’t know “Intervention” is a mini-series-documentary about people who are living with addictions that range from Alcoholism, to hording, to addictions with pornography. It’s a good show, because it gives a real face to addictions, and it demonstrates how people become slave to their addiction, and that people will do anything to get their next “fix”.

As the day continued, I slept some more, at one point I woke up and did some reading for a new class that started this week. However, before I knew it the time was 6:45 p.m. and I had seen an advertisement for the ABC show “The Bachelorette”. I was intrigued to watch this episode because at the end of the show there was going to be an interview with Jake and Vienna from the last season of the “The Bachelor”. I had watched the show from beginning to end, and it was my hearts conviction that Jake had chosen the wrong girl.

I am not surprised to see Jake carrying on the way he is. Men have a tendency to be very rude, and nasty when they have a hard time admitting that they have made a mistake in picking a mate. Especially in this case , it was before millions and millions of people. Jake is embarrassed that he chose with the wrong head. Now he finds himself involved and engaged to a woman that he has NOTHING in common with. The woman that he described last night was the same woman that was in the house, that didn’t get along with any of the other women, and that was very manipulative, demanding, and rude. However, Mr. Jake was blind not by love, not by lust, but by his pure hormonal desire to do nothing but “mate” with her. It’s animalistic, but it’s true! WOMEN OF AMERICA LISTEN: DON’T BE FOOLED BY THESE CRAZY REALITY SHOWS. THE NATURE OF THE MAN IS TO MATE! Understand that it is very possible for a man to have sex with a woman that he has no interest in, and that he does not have any intentions of marrying. Women or spiritual beings, and men are (how shall I say it?) hmmmm, they are BEAST!

I feel very sorry for Vienna. Although I am not a fan of hers, I feel bad for anyone who is in her shoes. America, we have got to take an internal look at us. I am very confused with how we will block one group of individual’s rights for marriage equality, yet at the same time we go crazy for cocoa puffs for a show that has reduced marriage to a Drive-thru experience at a fast-food chain. Hmmm, I just don’t get it.

Namaste

Kindrick

An appropriate EVICTION notice

This week I learned a valuable lesson. Earlier this week we were all made aware of a United States Army General named General Mcchrystal. Earlier in the year General Mcchrystal gave an interview to Michael Hastings, writer for Rolling Stone Magazine. The article was titled "The Runaway General." Now, I am gonna bypass all of the politics of the article, because personally, I didnt feel that the comments he made were targeted to Barack Obama in a political fashion. The comments were coming for a man who had obviously experieneced some hardships in getting the assistance he needed from the White House. You really should read the article. However, the coments he made were very unappropriate for a man of his "professional" stature. Overall, I think the interview was giving to the wrong outlet.

My only issue here and the lesson that I learned is that you have to be on watch 24/7, because not everyone who is with you, is for you. The article makes note that General Mcchrystal voted for Obama, which I guess is suppose to make the stab in President Obamas back less painful. I learned this, as a supporter of mine you are charged with being on watch for me 24/7, and you are charged with looking out for my best interest. If you disagree with me, bring your grievances to me, dont broadcast your grievances with me in public. If you are unable to dwell with me with those terms and conditions than you leave me no choice but to relieve you of your duty. YOU WILL NOT BURN ME TWICE.

A while back a friend of mine and I were talking about how I was making changes to the way I address people in my life. I have a habit of using the term "Friend" to describe people who really arent friends of mine. Turning 30 was a monumental time for me in my life because I realized that quality will always override quantity. That being said, I am done with living a life filled with people who dont aid or add anything to my life.

**USELESS INDIVIDUALS**

Please be advised that effective this 27th day of June in the year of our Lord 2010, you are officially EVICTED from my life. Your time has been well served. However, we have reached a point where my life strategy and your strategy or not working in synergy. Its truly been a pleasure getting to know you. Understand, that my intentions are not to harm you but to see you grow. I pray that your life is filled with greatness.

Life well, laugh often, and love more.

-Kindrick

Just to empty my head

Hey there blog buddies!

Today has been an interesting Tuesday to say the least. There have been so many things going on in our crazy little world today.

First, today is day 64 of the BP oil catastrophe in the gulf coast, and the earliest sign of a solution is not until August. What are we going to do? Today, a Federal judge in Louisiana delivered an opinion to block the 6 mos. Moratorium that would prevent deepwater drilling. The moratorium was put in place as a means to remove offshore workers from platforms so that “watch-dogs” could check for safety violations on platforms that are currently in use. The white house immediately issued a statement stating that it would appeal the judge’s decision to “block” the moratorium. Shortly after that announcement information was released stating that the federal judge, who sat the case, should have passed on the case because he has financial ties to Transocean. Transocean is the company that owned the Deepwater Horizon, the rig which was leased to BP and So, in the great American art of bureaucratic bull-corn, where does that leave me as an oil-field employee? Where does this leave you? Hmmm, NOBODY KNOWS. You will just have to pop some pop-corn and watch the DRAMA unfold. I think this drama is going to have Victor and Nicki’s 100^th wedding BEAT. J (Good Lord those people have renewed their vows more than you wash your panties.)

Second, our stars of ABC’s the Bachelor have called it QUITS! Lyons, and tigers and bears, OH MY! I mean seriously! Did you really expect this to work? All I can say is this, CIRRRRCUS!

Ok, love you lots. I know, I really didn’t share much but I have been multi-tasking through this entire post. Ill be back later in the week.

Give somebody a hug, they sure could use it!

Kindrick

Happy Fathers Day!

Good Morning and Happy Fathers Day! It’s a beautiful day to reflect on all things that pertain to dad. Where would we be without our fathers? Good or bad, absent or present we all made our way into this world with the help of a Father. Now, for many of us (like me) our biological fathers didn’t raise us. However, I give my biological father big thanks for removing himself out of the way, so that someone who was more qualified for the job of raising me could step-up.

I was raised by an AWESOME man; my father was perfect almost to default. He did everything a father does to show a child that he is absolutely, positively in love with his kid. My memories of my dad go back to when I was little and he and I would go on camping trips with my boy scouting troop. See, the interesting thing is that my dad was not really a “camping” kind of man, but he did it because he knew that it was something I wanted to do. Many of times he inconvenienced himself, to see me smile. Fast forward a few years to my teen years, where I began to be a handful (yes that’s right, I was a handful). I remember moments where he was SOOOO disappointed in something I said or did, that he would just give me this look, which was enough to send breakers through my soul. However, he would never let his disappointment keep him disconnected from me. So I completed high-school and decided that I wanted to see the world, and made a few moves in the world that he was NOT at all pleased with, but he never stopped me. I think he silently knew that I had to get out and do it on my own. However, I can promise you that not a Sunday afternoon went by where I did not get a call from home.

My dad was not only my dad, but he was looked to for spiritual guidance from members of his congregation. Yes, I am a P.K (Preachers Kid). I never thought about how hard it was for him to be the spiritual leader of two houses, filled with people who depended upon him for guidance, love, and leadership, I know it was hard but he never let it show. The only thing my dad was NOT was a plumber! I remember one time he tried to fix the line that goes from the sink to the ice-maker. My mom and I left home that morning for a shopping trip and when we returned, water was gushing from under the front door of the house. I remember that we got new carpet, because he didn’t want to spend a few extra bucks to hire a professional to install the ice maker. J

In August of 2002, my father, Herbert Ivy Benoit, passed away. Although he is not physically here with us, he left a legacy behind. He was a great man; he had a passion for living, and a desire to be of service in ANY and every way possible. I learned a lot from my dad, most importantly I learned the importance of GPS.

In the spirit of my father’s love and kindness, I extend to you my wish for a very happy father’s day!

Kindrick

Im still proud...

Im still proud and blessed to be a citizen of these great United States of America.

God save all of us!

Kindrick

I QUIT!!!!!

OMG, that feels so good to say. I heard a sermon by a minister named Jamal Bryant, and in his sermon he explored the difference between quiting and failing. Ok, so let's talk! I am about to get uncomfortably honest with you.

(LET ME PREFACE THIS BY SAYING THAT I AM NO SELF-HELP SPECIALIST. I AM JUST SHARING MY FEELINGS & THOUGHTS. THIS IS WHAT WORKED FOR ME.)

ok, read on...(SMILE)

I must confess that I am one of those people who has a problem with leaving bad relationships, and friendships. I have been in some of the worst relationships and friendships but, because I have a fear of failure I do not leave. I always looked at those relationships from the perspective that there was something wrong with me. It was my fault that those people didn't appreciate me in the skin, and talent that God gave me. I think often times I make excuses to the benefit of my transgressor so that I feel that I don't have to leave the relationship. Now if you know me, you would think at face-value that I am very secure in my skin, and truth be told I often struggle with self-acceptance, and self-worth. It's a work in progress.

However, I reached a healthy conclusion this week, that it is time for me to "quit" a relationship that I have been trying to resuscitate for far too long. I am at a place where I am comfortable with leaving the relationship because I realize that the end equation does not equal a home-field advantage for me. To quote Pastor Bryant "quitting is not the same as failing, quitting simply means that I have realized that there are better options that present me with an outcome to my advantage."

So, when you walk away from this blog tonight. First, give God thanks for my clarity of mind. Secondly, evaluate your life, and think about those people who seem to never encourage you, never ask you, "how are you feeling", and wouldn't even offer you their left-over scraps from the $2.99 special at Popeyes. Then with much prayer make a decision that creates a "win-win" for you.

I have tooo many other things to worry about, for example "How do I want my eggs in the morning?" (SERIOUSLY! I, want eggs in the morning!)

Live well, laugh often, and love more! (just give your love to people who appreciate it)

Kindrick

BP, Gulf Coast Recovery, and President Obama.

It is now day 57 or so of the BP oil catastrophe. Tonight President Barack Obama addressed the citizens of this great country. President Obama laid out his plan for recovery from the oil spill for the gulf coast. In his speech he advised the country that he has appointed a new drilling regulator, and he also makes mention of the need for the country to move forward with its quest for other energy sources. I was waiting to hear him discuss or mention his plans on the moratorium that he has in place that stops deep water drilling for the next 6-months. He makes mention of the moratorium, briefly explaining its importance, but does not make any mention of letting it up any sooner. I honestly, did not expect him to shorten, or reverse the moratorium. I didn't go into the speech expecting much, because I knew that he was going to remain firm on his decision.

As this catastrophe continues it causes more, and more separation amongst us a people. At this point in this MESS, people in the northern parts of the United States who are not accustomed to offshore drilling, are finding it very hard to be sympathetic with oilfield workers, because they feel as though this mess was caused by ALL oilfield workers. My words to you are..."I didn't do it!" I don't understand why I should be punished for the GREED of people like Tony Hayward, and his army of corporate thieves. This brings me to another point...I have been hearing lots of talk about boycotts against BP. A few things that you should know before you pick up your picket sign and protest in-front of your local BP fuel station.

1. In 2007 BP left the "gas station" business, and sold its gas stations to local owner operators. So the person that you are hurting the most could very well be your neighbor and or friend. BP, allowed those local owner operators to continue to operate their businesses under the BP brand, because at that point the brand had power.

2. There is NO guarantee that the oil, or gas that you put in your vehicle is not oil that was drilled by BP. "Once companies make a discovery, it comes out of the ground and ends up at a refinery. There, it can get mixed with oil that a variety of companies and poured into the tanks. Then, the gasoline makes at least one stop at what is essentially a wholesale warehouse. BP owns some of these tank farms, but so do other companies." (Ron Lieber. 6/11/2010)

3. Oil is a raw material used to make hundreds of things we use everyday. Do a google search to see what items require oil in their manufacturing. My point is BP will get their money. Airlines have fuel agreements with BP, that are signed for at minimum the next 10-15 years.

Please do not run out of gas trying to boycott BP. Its too hot for all that drama!

Find a way to live, love, and laugh through this.

Kindrick

Works cited

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2012094603_bpboycott12.html?syndication=rss Accessed 6/15/2010

Harry Connick Jr.! Oh how I love thee!

Yes, I am protesting my love for Harry Connick Jr. The man is a musical genius. A few years ago, I stumbled upon one of his cd's called "Star Turtle", and that CD changed my life forever. That cd layed a foundation for jazz in my life. I am forever grateful for Harry Connick Jr., and his passion for New Orleans as well as the state of Louisiana. He is a GREAT person to have representing our state.

Today, while flipping through some of my youtube.com subscriptions, I found this clip from the whitehouse. I love this video, because this is Harry doing what he does best being a musician. It takes a while to get to the part where he begins to play but its worth the wait. Also, he brings a little boy up to sing with him. The little boy did not know "When the saints go marching in" but he still pulled it off. Listen to the music. What significance does this video have to the blog you ask? Well, its definitely under the category of "just to make you smile."

Hey there...We've come along way.

Hey there!

So today you gave me a call, and although you and I have talked on the phone plenty of times in the last few days/weeks, this call was different. This phone call brought back memories of when I lived hundreds of miles away from you, and you would call me at 3 and 4 in the morning. I remember those calls well, I would often have to go and sit on the balcony to talk to you because I didn't wanna wake-up my other "roommates." Anyways, so right now I am sure that you are about to loose your mind reading this blog, because you have realized that this blog is a public letter to you.

I realized that in the 12 years or so that we have known each other I have never told you how proud I am that you have accomplished your goals. O wow! To watch you go from volunteer to executive director of an organization that you have so much passion about. I bet you didn't know that I secretly watch you for an example on how to set and achieve my goals. So yes, your life had its moments but the great thing about that is you didn't allow them to keep you back.

Anyways, its important as we grow into another season in life that you understand that I appreciate laughing, and sharing all of my life moments with you. I simply pray that God allows me to continue to share with you. Keep up the great work kid!

Sincerely yours,

Kindrick

When will today be my yesterday?

So its no secret that today has not been one of my best days. I feel heavy burdened, and just kind of "blah". I was embraced with kind friends from friends and even my boss, and even had a friend make one of my favorite dishes (thanks by the way). However, nothing can soothe my sorrows like this poem written by Iyanla Vanzant. This woman is brilliant. I know many people are hating Oprah and Stedman right now, but Oprah has introduced us to some really powerful spiritual leaders, and in my opinion Iyanla is one of them. Hope you enjoy.

Yesterday I cried

by Iyanla Vanzant

I came home, went straight to my room,

sat on the edge of my bed,

kicked off my shoes,

unhooked my bra,

and I had myself a good cry.

I'm telling you,

I cried until my nose was running all over

the silk blouse I got on sale.

I cried until my ears were hot.

I cried until my head was hurting so bad

that I could hardly see the pile of

soiled tissues lying on the floor at my feet.

I want you to understand,

I had myself a really good cry yesterday.

Yesterday, I cried,

for all the days that I was too busy,

or too tired,

or too mad to cry.

I cried for all the days, and all the ways,

and all the times I had dishonored,

disrespected, and

disconnected my Self from myself,

only to have it reflected back to me

in the ways others did to me

the same things I had already done to myself.

I cried for all the things I had given,

only to have them stolen;

for all the things I had asked for that

had yet to show up;

for all the things I had accomplished,

only to give them away,

to people in circumstances,

which left me feeling empty,

and battered and plain old used.

I cried because there really does

come a time when the only thing left

for you to do is cry.

Yesterday, I cried.

I cried because little boys get

left by their daddies;

and little girls get forgotten by their mommies;

and daddies don't know what to do, so they leave;

and mommies get left, so they get mad.

I cried because I had a little boy,

and because I was a little girl,

and because I was a mommy

who didn't know what to do,

and because I wanted my daddy to be there

for me so badly until I ached.

Yesterday, I cried.

I cried because I hurt.

I cried because I was hurt.

I cried because hurt has no place to go

except deeper into the pain that

caused it in the first place,

and when it gets there,

the hurt wakes you up.

I cried because it was too late.

I cried because it was time.

I cried because my soul knew that I didn't know

that my soul knew everything I needed to know.

I cried a soulful cry yesterday,

and it felt so good.

It felt so very, very bad.

In the midst of my crying,

I felt my freedom coming,

Because Yesterday,

I cried with an agenda.

Vanzant, Iyanla. (2000). Yesterday, i cried. New York: Fireside.

This photo is a photo that I took on my vacation to Hawaii. It makes me happy. Once you've cried I think you have to give God thanks for your cry, and move on.

Unforgettable pictures

Picture taken from: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/06/photogalleries/100608-gulf-oil-spill-environment-birds-animals-pictures/#gulf-oil-spill-killing-wildlife-pelicans_21360_600x450.jpghttp://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/06/photogalleries/100608-gulf-oil-spill-environment-birds-animals-pictures/#gulf-oil-spill-killing-wildlife-pelicans_21360_600x450.jpg

Just a few things...

First, on last Friday I made a trip to my local movie theatre with a friend of mine to watch what is being called in the social media world SATC2 (Sex and the city 2). I left the movie feeling so frustrated. Before I can explain my frustration allow me to bring you up to speed on Sex and the City as I see it.

Sex and the City is the story of 4 friends who live in New York City. The 4 women share their lives with one another in every aspect from troubled relationships, to over-sexed cougars dealing with menopause. I was never a fan of the HBO series, it just appeared that Carrie Bradshaw (leading character) whined too much for my sanity. This is a woman who has it ALL. She is a successful writer, and has a boyfriend , Mr. Big, that most women would die to have. Yet, she always finds something to be unhappy about. There is always some aspect of their relationship that leaves her unhappy, or there is something in her life that she is unhappy with. Anyways back to the movie, I left the movie feeling so depressed because those women have achieved what I consider to be the "TACO SUPREME". They have it all. They have relationships, successful jobs, children, marriages, and most importantly they have an unbreakable friendship. Yet, as always with the girls from SATC there is always something to complain about, or something to fix. I'm not going to go into any specifics because I would hate to ruin the movie. I do say that it is a good movie, I just wish we could see the girls of SATC happy, one big movie about them being happy.

Next, I have a dilemma. What do you do when you realize that helping someone else is going to hurt you? Where do you draw the line between your own insecurities, and lending a hand to your brother or sister who is down on their luck. I am faced with a situation, I have a friend who needs a hand up, but I know that we live TWO completely different lifestyles. I from the bottom of my heart want to help him out, but I know that there is going to be a conflict of interest somewhere down the road. Im torn, really, really, really torn. I keep thinking to myself, "What if it were me?" Does the scripture, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" still apply in this situation? WWJD?

Live well, Love lots, & Laugh often!

P.s. Its day 50 of the BP Oil catastrophe, and there is no sign of a resolution in sight. You can take a look at the cams on www.bp.com and let me know what you think. Please pray for those of us here in the gulf coast.

Gulf Coast and BP

BP has become synonymous with Gulf Coast. Who knew that the Gulf Coast and BP had such a strong love affair. NOT!!! Right now, I would hate to be an Executive at BP. Its definitely not going good for them at all. So here is how I feel about this entire matter.

What happened to that Rig is not a terrorist attack on the US, it was not staged by the Coast Guard, or some radical group that hates drilling. What happened out there is something that has the possibility of happening to any Oil Rig. Yes, we are now begining to discover that there is a possibility that BP leadership made cost cutting decisions that may have aided in the explosion. However, we do not know this for sure. The problem that I have had with this matter is the way that the executives of BP and the media have handled the matter. I don.t believe that the executives have done enough to keep the public educated and informed as to what happened, and what they are planning to do to resolve the matter. Its only human for people to assume, when they are left to make their own decisions. I think that BP Execs could use a refresher in Social Responsibility. It would have been more appropriate for the Executive to empathize, apologize, and reassure the world that BP as a corporate citizen was doing all in its power to protect the safety of the people, and the gulf coast ecosystem. We have yet to hear any words from BP addressing rumors that BP requested the workers on the rig to sign waivers of liability immediately following the explosion. All we have heard from BP and its executives is an empty promise to remain in the gulf coast until every drop of oil is cleaned, and also apologies for making remarks like the one below. Tony, I understand that you want your life back. But, I am more than sure that there are 11 families that would like to have their loved ones back. Does BP recognize that the court of Public Opinion has already found it GUILTY? What will BP do to resuscitate its public image? Should Tony Hayward be removed from his position as leader of BP?

At this point as citizens, the only thing we can do is rely on one another to put our biases aside, and come to aide of our home, our neighbors, and our weak corporate citizens. We should all lend a hand in the cleanup when possible.

Much love!

Welcome to my Blog! June 6, 2010

Its been another magnificent Monday. This will make my third attempt at blogging. I look forward to blogging so that I can use my blogging as a tool to cleanse my soul from my thoughts. I often find myself being held hostage by my own thoughts, and worries. But, I am resolved to place them in cyber space and simply leave them there.

Through this blog I plan to share everything in my life with you. Thoughts, feelings about current events, notes from sermons at church, etc. You are going to learn alot about me, through reading this blog. BIG NEWS: I have Secrets, some of them, I am going to share in this blog, others are too close to my heart to share with Cyber Space. Besides, I do plan on being a successful individual at some point in my life, and sharing all of my secrets might hinder me from that. Ok, I gotta run..My first secret is that I am addicted to reality TV. Real Housewives of New Jersey is now starting.

Talk to you later.