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.