This is my second stitch at writing this morning, well the first time I actually wrote pen to paper, not fond of that because my penmanship sucks, and so does my spelling, Now I know I need to practice and carry a dictionary. Easy solution. I'm working on it. I almost don't like typing because my computer has it's own mind and skips lines and it is very nerve recking at times as I get into the typing process. I am actually getting kinda good at typing without looking, YEAH ME!! I plan to practice more. I am excited about that because it is something I know I can do. my 10 key skills used to be on point when I worked at Jewel- Osco! :-)
Anyway, not sure what I want to write about right now, my problem is I have so much floating in my mind it's hard to decide, I really want to write with purpose. I was having coffee with a dear old friend last week, telling her about my recent life changes, she told me she was so inspired and she thought I could be a motivational speaker. I was humbled at her words. She said she felt that I was sharing with purpose so to speak, not to bost myself up. That is exactly why I want to write, I just need to get in the habit, and find somethings worth writing. Thinking about why am I putting these words down? Will they help anyone? Will they hep me. That is also something I just now considered. Maybe my words will help me. LOL
Well, That is all I have for now. Writing with substance coming soon.
PEACE,
Thanks for visiting. As ALWAYS I welcome feedback, comments, questions. All positive and full of love.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Sunday, December 30, 2012
3 Months IN!!
ABE Movement: Buy. Think. Eat. Liberate.
August 1, 2012, three months ago I began a journey that led me down a road; I didn’t even know where I was going. But I knew I wanted to be there. I knew that if I didn’t start walking I wouldn’t get any place. As a matter of fact I will take it back to October 2011 When I began to get more actively involved in the community and “politics” I remember thinking about this city and how it was run, and me not knowing a DAMN thing. A hunger rose up inside my being.
Working in the community for years and having a passion for children and families, I saw that shit was not right for the majority of Black people. I wanted to do more.
When I began to work the BIDDLE For Milwaukee campaign I had no idea about politics, I just knew that something had to change. I felt the passion and commitment in Mr. Biddle’s voice. I saw that he was not a regular ol “politician” HE was FOR THE PEOPLE. Out spoken not giving a fuck about anything but doing what is right and making REAL change. I supported his efforts hole heartedly. Being IN the HOOD almost daily talking to people one on one about the current conditions was such a life changing experience for me. Even now as I drive around I feel a connection like never before, peoples stories come back it’s like the hood is alive in me, and I in it. Sounds crazy maybe; but I can’t describe it any other way. After that election I KNEW shit was not over. LOL
Leading me up to this exact moment in life; 3 months into a movement to support Black Owned business has been everything it needed to be. J I had no expectations, and I think THAT was the key. Just being involved in this ONE single thing that will be a building block for the future was enough for me. As this process unfolds I have made significant life changes simply by being open to more, being willing to challenge and rethink all I have come to know, not only that but willing to learn more about what I don’t (and I don’t know plenty shit) LOL
We must be willing. GOD gave us a will. He did not create robots; He gave us a free will and a free mind. I feel that my spiritual, mental, and physical beings are and continue to be enlightened. I was willing to step out of my comfort zone; ya know what? It’s not so uncomfortable out here. It’s actually very liberating, rejuvenating, intoxicating, challenging, awaking, amazing….all kind of “ings”!
I am blessed to be surrounded by people who challenge me to grow, encouraging (that could go up in that list too) J me to do more intellectually, spiritually, and physically. (Now if I could get some help with my emotions I would be alright) ;)
I am excited that my 14yr. old son and nephew are quite invested in this movement, hungry for more. All on their own they have chosen to get involved and actually put in work, attending meetings etc. This is their future we are talking about and the future of their seeds. I can only imagine the energy, encouragement and seeds being planted within them. I hope they share and encourage their friends to get involved. I am excited for us to grow together. J
I only want for MY people (yes MY people OUR people, we are a part of each other, WE have to be accountable for each other, the village has rested long enough!!) to be FREE Spiritually, Physically and Mentally. I find it hard to understand when people are reluctant to even find out what we are about. This is real life that we are dealing with we are not playing.
Anyway, like I said I am on a road that is going someplace great. Although I may not make it to the destination I want to pave the way for the next, generation. We as a people have sat for too long, relying on a system that gives no fucks about us. If you think that statement is inaccurate then just look around. I mean really look past your box, into someone else’s. We need to organize as a people. This is the ONLY way to liberation. We need mental, Physical, and spiritual liberation.
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING is unapologetically committed to the reclamation, preservation, protection, and progression of Black culture, Black power, and Black people.
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING is not a fad, it’s a movement. It’s a movement fully committed to restoring the culture of the Black community, empowering its members to recognize their ability to change and self-determine their own destiny, and ultimately liberating ourselves and our children from the abyss of cultural repression and economic oppression. Our programs focus on giving members of the Black community opportunities to engage in being agents of creating their own community change by being critical of where they spend their money, the food they put into their bodies and the knowledge put into their children’s minds. In the spirit of those ancestors who fought relentlessly for us to retain and promote our humanity, we encourage the community to come together and celebrate the beauty and genius of being BLACK.
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING envisions a self-determining, independent, self-sufficient global Black community.
HOTEP! MVP
August 1, 2012, three months ago I began a journey that led me down a road; I didn’t even know where I was going. But I knew I wanted to be there. I knew that if I didn’t start walking I wouldn’t get any place. As a matter of fact I will take it back to October 2011 When I began to get more actively involved in the community and “politics” I remember thinking about this city and how it was run, and me not knowing a DAMN thing. A hunger rose up inside my being.
Working in the community for years and having a passion for children and families, I saw that shit was not right for the majority of Black people. I wanted to do more.
When I began to work the BIDDLE For Milwaukee campaign I had no idea about politics, I just knew that something had to change. I felt the passion and commitment in Mr. Biddle’s voice. I saw that he was not a regular ol “politician” HE was FOR THE PEOPLE. Out spoken not giving a fuck about anything but doing what is right and making REAL change. I supported his efforts hole heartedly. Being IN the HOOD almost daily talking to people one on one about the current conditions was such a life changing experience for me. Even now as I drive around I feel a connection like never before, peoples stories come back it’s like the hood is alive in me, and I in it. Sounds crazy maybe; but I can’t describe it any other way. After that election I KNEW shit was not over. LOL
Leading me up to this exact moment in life; 3 months into a movement to support Black Owned business has been everything it needed to be. J I had no expectations, and I think THAT was the key. Just being involved in this ONE single thing that will be a building block for the future was enough for me. As this process unfolds I have made significant life changes simply by being open to more, being willing to challenge and rethink all I have come to know, not only that but willing to learn more about what I don’t (and I don’t know plenty shit) LOL
We must be willing. GOD gave us a will. He did not create robots; He gave us a free will and a free mind. I feel that my spiritual, mental, and physical beings are and continue to be enlightened. I was willing to step out of my comfort zone; ya know what? It’s not so uncomfortable out here. It’s actually very liberating, rejuvenating, intoxicating, challenging, awaking, amazing….all kind of “ings”!
I am blessed to be surrounded by people who challenge me to grow, encouraging (that could go up in that list too) J me to do more intellectually, spiritually, and physically. (Now if I could get some help with my emotions I would be alright) ;)
I am excited that my 14yr. old son and nephew are quite invested in this movement, hungry for more. All on their own they have chosen to get involved and actually put in work, attending meetings etc. This is their future we are talking about and the future of their seeds. I can only imagine the energy, encouragement and seeds being planted within them. I hope they share and encourage their friends to get involved. I am excited for us to grow together. J
I only want for MY people (yes MY people OUR people, we are a part of each other, WE have to be accountable for each other, the village has rested long enough!!) to be FREE Spiritually, Physically and Mentally. I find it hard to understand when people are reluctant to even find out what we are about. This is real life that we are dealing with we are not playing.
Anyway, like I said I am on a road that is going someplace great. Although I may not make it to the destination I want to pave the way for the next, generation. We as a people have sat for too long, relying on a system that gives no fucks about us. If you think that statement is inaccurate then just look around. I mean really look past your box, into someone else’s. We need to organize as a people. This is the ONLY way to liberation. We need mental, Physical, and spiritual liberation.
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING is unapologetically committed to the reclamation, preservation, protection, and progression of Black culture, Black power, and Black people.
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING is not a fad, it’s a movement. It’s a movement fully committed to restoring the culture of the Black community, empowering its members to recognize their ability to change and self-determine their own destiny, and ultimately liberating ourselves and our children from the abyss of cultural repression and economic oppression. Our programs focus on giving members of the Black community opportunities to engage in being agents of creating their own community change by being critical of where they spend their money, the food they put into their bodies and the knowledge put into their children’s minds. In the spirit of those ancestors who fought relentlessly for us to retain and promote our humanity, we encourage the community to come together and celebrate the beauty and genius of being BLACK.
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING envisions a self-determining, independent, self-sufficient global Black community.
HOTEP! MVP
Day 50
ABE 50 Days In
I don’t remember that last time I blogged about ABE, but I feel it is time to once again write about my experience.
Recap: Beginning May 1st 2012 myself and a group of likeminded friends (I appreciate that I can call them that, because not everyone I work with is my friend)began to support only BO (Black Owned) businesses, in order to build economic power in our community. This not only made me aware of what I was spending my money on, but where I was spending my money. I save money over all because I was not just impulse buying things I didn’t need; I did that A LOT.
When I tell people about ABE I get mixed reactions. I have been told I’m racist, I have been told that BO Businesses can be too expensive, bad service, smells bad…etc. My response is let’s help them to get better. I am sure these businesses want to be successful, so instead of avoiding them, let’s connect with them and help them to grow! That in turn will help our community to grow.
I had a conversation via Facebook someone mentioned that we have enough segregation and ALL people should come together. Integration is needed. My thought, are we not already supposed to be integrated? How is that working for the majority of Black people in Milwaukee? I say to look at it this way integrating Black with Black. We have to support each other; we have to learn to LOVE ourselves as a whole culture.
Along with this ABE lifestyle comes something greater, its called education; Education of self, history, others. It is really amazing how I see things now, my mind is focused on what can I do to make US better? How can I connect people with people? (Actually I have always been that way) but it’s like I have purpose now, a different purpose. I get confirmation all the time that we are on the right path, God lines up everything.
I bought a shirt that said “I have good hair, I have African in my family” this girl told me my shirt was a lie, and that Black people hair is nappy. It’s all bad. I asked her “Why, is the hair God gave you not good enough?” Who told you it wasn’t?” Just think about that. Who sets these things in place for us to internalize and believe? Why are WE not good enough as WE ARE? This is just an example of things I am coming to question and realize.
ABE is MORE than ABE. It’s about education, economic development, health, BUILDING the BLACK community.
Definitely NOT a fad
but a MOVEment
a LIFESTYLE
Powered by MOVE Milwaukee J
MVP
I don’t remember that last time I blogged about ABE, but I feel it is time to once again write about my experience.
Recap: Beginning May 1st 2012 myself and a group of likeminded friends (I appreciate that I can call them that, because not everyone I work with is my friend)began to support only BO (Black Owned) businesses, in order to build economic power in our community. This not only made me aware of what I was spending my money on, but where I was spending my money. I save money over all because I was not just impulse buying things I didn’t need; I did that A LOT.
When I tell people about ABE I get mixed reactions. I have been told I’m racist, I have been told that BO Businesses can be too expensive, bad service, smells bad…etc. My response is let’s help them to get better. I am sure these businesses want to be successful, so instead of avoiding them, let’s connect with them and help them to grow! That in turn will help our community to grow.
I had a conversation via Facebook someone mentioned that we have enough segregation and ALL people should come together. Integration is needed. My thought, are we not already supposed to be integrated? How is that working for the majority of Black people in Milwaukee? I say to look at it this way integrating Black with Black. We have to support each other; we have to learn to LOVE ourselves as a whole culture.
Along with this ABE lifestyle comes something greater, its called education; Education of self, history, others. It is really amazing how I see things now, my mind is focused on what can I do to make US better? How can I connect people with people? (Actually I have always been that way) but it’s like I have purpose now, a different purpose. I get confirmation all the time that we are on the right path, God lines up everything.
I bought a shirt that said “I have good hair, I have African in my family” this girl told me my shirt was a lie, and that Black people hair is nappy. It’s all bad. I asked her “Why, is the hair God gave you not good enough?” Who told you it wasn’t?” Just think about that. Who sets these things in place for us to internalize and believe? Why are WE not good enough as WE ARE? This is just an example of things I am coming to question and realize.
ABE is MORE than ABE. It’s about education, economic development, health, BUILDING the BLACK community.
Definitely NOT a fad
but a MOVEment
a LIFESTYLE
Powered by MOVE Milwaukee J
MVP
African American Music Month
This is from the book “Revolutionaries Daily Thoughts” By: Mwalimu K. Baruti
“We must remember that music has always served a positive culturally enhancing function for Afrikans. Throughout ourstory, it called us to preform ritual, festival and ceremony, to celebrate our rites and gather at our holy places to confirm and rejuvenate any neglected connection with our Ancestors, guardian deities and the Creator. It summoned us to village meetings to decide disagreements between individuals. When necessary, it even called us as a community into war with others. We must remember that drums have always been at the center of our music. As the heart, they beat out the time that regulates the pulse of our constant movement toward equilibrium and perfection in spite of the disorder created around us by incomplete beings. The vibrations that their music gives off nurtures the communion of our community. They marked cadence during the marches those who broke from their enslavement made from town to town after victorious revolts. They rolled down from our Maroon, Quilombo and outlier strongholds announcing coming war and retaliation they speak of universal rhythm, of balance, of justice, of order. We have never given them up because we know their power.”
I read this and it really moved me, we as a people have to understand where we were TAKEN from. Everything has history, and meaning, purpose. Drums were more than just beats to shake our ass to, and when I think about the music we listen to now, the current mainstream is has strayed so far from where it originated from.
What message is our music sending to our people?
What is the purpose?
What have we done with the power of the drum?
Where is the nurturing of our community?
Nurture means to care for encourage the growth and development of…
Communion is the sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, esp. when the exchange is on a mental or spiritual level.
Where is this, in the music that we as a people embrace? What are we developing and growing? Where are our spiritual mental thoughts and connections?
In this new journey I am on, I am beginning to see things in a different light, perhaps these things are nothing new, but they are being developed and growing. We have to get back to the basics. I have more facts and things to share later on, but this is something I felt compelled to put out here in the world, or at least this part of it. I encourage you to think about this, your own personal reflection.
Affirm: I listen to the words of the drum (Also from the book)
#PEACE
MVP
“We must remember that music has always served a positive culturally enhancing function for Afrikans. Throughout ourstory, it called us to preform ritual, festival and ceremony, to celebrate our rites and gather at our holy places to confirm and rejuvenate any neglected connection with our Ancestors, guardian deities and the Creator. It summoned us to village meetings to decide disagreements between individuals. When necessary, it even called us as a community into war with others. We must remember that drums have always been at the center of our music. As the heart, they beat out the time that regulates the pulse of our constant movement toward equilibrium and perfection in spite of the disorder created around us by incomplete beings. The vibrations that their music gives off nurtures the communion of our community. They marked cadence during the marches those who broke from their enslavement made from town to town after victorious revolts. They rolled down from our Maroon, Quilombo and outlier strongholds announcing coming war and retaliation they speak of universal rhythm, of balance, of justice, of order. We have never given them up because we know their power.”
I read this and it really moved me, we as a people have to understand where we were TAKEN from. Everything has history, and meaning, purpose. Drums were more than just beats to shake our ass to, and when I think about the music we listen to now, the current mainstream is has strayed so far from where it originated from.
What message is our music sending to our people?
What is the purpose?
What have we done with the power of the drum?
Where is the nurturing of our community?
Nurture means to care for encourage the growth and development of…
Communion is the sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, esp. when the exchange is on a mental or spiritual level.
Where is this, in the music that we as a people embrace? What are we developing and growing? Where are our spiritual mental thoughts and connections?
In this new journey I am on, I am beginning to see things in a different light, perhaps these things are nothing new, but they are being developed and growing. We have to get back to the basics. I have more facts and things to share later on, but this is something I felt compelled to put out here in the world, or at least this part of it. I encourage you to think about this, your own personal reflection.
Affirm: I listen to the words of the drum (Also from the book)
#PEACE
MVP
A month Later
#AllBLACKeverything
Day 31
Wow, has it really been a month since I hopped on the ABE train? As I type this, the current total for the group is $5,659.66. In just 30 days, I am willing to bet that more will be added and I also bet a lot of those dollars are new dollars to the Black community!
I really don’t have much to say, I am so very excited to keep this lifestyle in rotation. Yes, there are challenges, but right now I don’t want to focus on those, they are minimal and are to be expected. Nothing I cannot deal with.
We have great plans in the works! I only hope you will join us on our life changing journey!
YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS!!
TRUST ME!....
I’m really tired that’s’ the real reason I don’t want to type a lot, and since this is a forever event, I will have plenty of time to talk your ear off in the future!
#ASE
MVP
Day 31
Wow, has it really been a month since I hopped on the ABE train? As I type this, the current total for the group is $5,659.66. In just 30 days, I am willing to bet that more will be added and I also bet a lot of those dollars are new dollars to the Black community!
I really don’t have much to say, I am so very excited to keep this lifestyle in rotation. Yes, there are challenges, but right now I don’t want to focus on those, they are minimal and are to be expected. Nothing I cannot deal with.
We have great plans in the works! I only hope you will join us on our life changing journey!
YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS!!
TRUST ME!....
I’m really tired that’s’ the real reason I don’t want to type a lot, and since this is a forever event, I will have plenty of time to talk your ear off in the future!
#ASE
MVP
Lifestyle!
My spirit is moved this morning, as I woke up with many things on my mind. (When do I not) I was inspired by a few posts on Facebook that got the God in me on fire. I am excited for the future and I get emotional when I think about freedom for our people, true freedom, most importantly free minds…I was in the shower last week (I do mad thinking and get plenty ideas in there!) I was thinking about our city, reflecting on my time in the hood knocking on doors and talking with people. I was moved in many ways by everyone. I was out there mostly all by myself and I have to say the first time I went in the field alone I was kind of scared. But I had some of the best conversations with people and people were respectful and willing to engage. People really want better for themselves and their community. When I drive around now, I feel like I’m missing the people, but I also feel at home. I was on every end of the 15th district and I drive past places, I remember stories people shared. It really was a beautiful time and experience for me.
On the other side of that, I saw pain, suffering, hopelessness, oppression I saw a people who really didn’t understand the root of their problems. (Honestly, I am just now beginning to see myself.) It was then (in the shower) when I had that thought, and a vision of AFRICA flashed so clear in my mind I mean SO CLEAR I was taken a back in the shower…like almost fell.(I don’t get visions like THAT, that was crazy real) It was at that moment that I realized, I mean really realized that this generational curse in SO deeply rooted back to the mother land. I saw that we are tackling only a small part of the whole, the HEART (Africa) needs healing. A long journey indeed but if we start at home and then we can be an example for others to follow. I shared my thought with my team of ABE and I was so glad they didn’t think I was nuts, LOL I was right on the money. I was enlightened. J
Anyway, I feel myself rambling, I really just wanted to get these thoughts out here because, and well I want to.
This is day 17 of our 30 day “Challenge” I can say this. I can’t see myself after 30 days saying okay, back to the real world. THIS is my LIFESTYLE. I went into pick in save for the first time in 15 days to get my son his Asthma pump, I didn’t even feel like I was at home, I didn’t miss it at all. I did also; have to go to Wal-Mart for my cats’ food. (I will not kill my animals over the mission) I must say, that was a bit of a challenge, because I am the Queen of buying shit I don’t need… and the clearance section is my therapy. BUT I went in there got my cats food and bounced! *GOODJOB* I was thinking about accountability, now, I was accountable to more than just myself (knowing I don’t need to buy stuff I don’t need) but to my team(who will hold me accountable) and the People, GODS people they are the reason we are doing this. I have said it before, and will continue to say “IT IS NOT ABOUT ME”
I am ready to work, I keep hearing the topic about doing “more” in various meetings and conversations I have with people. For me it is just confirmation that I (WE) are on the right path, Question is will you join us?
I am hopeful for the future, and if you want liberation for people ALL people, not just African Americans but EVERYONE, PLEASE stay tuned and
“Be ready to work when called upon” *In my Eyon Biddle voice*
#M2AllBLACKeverything
Is not a fad, it’s a movement
On the other side of that, I saw pain, suffering, hopelessness, oppression I saw a people who really didn’t understand the root of their problems. (Honestly, I am just now beginning to see myself.) It was then (in the shower) when I had that thought, and a vision of AFRICA flashed so clear in my mind I mean SO CLEAR I was taken a back in the shower…like almost fell.(I don’t get visions like THAT, that was crazy real) It was at that moment that I realized, I mean really realized that this generational curse in SO deeply rooted back to the mother land. I saw that we are tackling only a small part of the whole, the HEART (Africa) needs healing. A long journey indeed but if we start at home and then we can be an example for others to follow. I shared my thought with my team of ABE and I was so glad they didn’t think I was nuts, LOL I was right on the money. I was enlightened. J
Anyway, I feel myself rambling, I really just wanted to get these thoughts out here because, and well I want to.
This is day 17 of our 30 day “Challenge” I can say this. I can’t see myself after 30 days saying okay, back to the real world. THIS is my LIFESTYLE. I went into pick in save for the first time in 15 days to get my son his Asthma pump, I didn’t even feel like I was at home, I didn’t miss it at all. I did also; have to go to Wal-Mart for my cats’ food. (I will not kill my animals over the mission) I must say, that was a bit of a challenge, because I am the Queen of buying shit I don’t need… and the clearance section is my therapy. BUT I went in there got my cats food and bounced! *GOODJOB* I was thinking about accountability, now, I was accountable to more than just myself (knowing I don’t need to buy stuff I don’t need) but to my team(who will hold me accountable) and the People, GODS people they are the reason we are doing this. I have said it before, and will continue to say “IT IS NOT ABOUT ME”
I am ready to work, I keep hearing the topic about doing “more” in various meetings and conversations I have with people. For me it is just confirmation that I (WE) are on the right path, Question is will you join us?
I am hopeful for the future, and if you want liberation for people ALL people, not just African Americans but EVERYONE, PLEASE stay tuned and
“Be ready to work when called upon” *In my Eyon Biddle voice*
#M2AllBLACKeverything
Is not a fad, it’s a movement
ABE Post 3
#ABE
Sacrifice is opportUNITY; this is what I got out of our meeting tonight. (that and a whole lot of other things). But this is sticking with me, the discussion being that we don’t want people to see this as a sacrifice but as opportUNITY. For me, a lot of these next 30 days will be sacrificing some part of myself but with a purpose.
As Mo said in her blog post we are fasting. And yes, we are. When I think about the times in my life that I choose to go on a spiritual fast in search of hearing from and focusing on my Father my creator. I gave up things that were hard for me (or that I thought would be hard) like Facebook and chocolate. But one thing I learned is that once you stop focusing on what you are giving up (loosing) and start to focus on what you a gaining (winning) then the sacrifice is opportUNITY and not really a sacrifice. If you are doing something out of Love and with Love driving you, then you can’t go wrong.
Not to say it is easy, anything worth having requires work hard work and dedication. Something that I notice about myself personally I am willing to do more, because people deserve more. The crazy thing is as I focus and this movement and the direction it is heading, the direction we are heading my focus in not even on me. I mean I envision a great community for our people I see myself looking on from a sideline perspective with the thought of look at what we did and all the lives we helped to change and impact for the better. And I know my life in the process is changing as well but THAT is not even the important piece. *shrug*
I am a firm believer that we all can do something. The question is, are you willing to go above and beyond what you already know you can do? It is a personal question that only an individual can answer. I have answered for myself and I encourage you to do the same. We are mad about the condition of our people, our inner city, lack of support from elected officials etc. I say it’s time to really reflect on what it means to be mad about something talk about the change we need and see how much change you have inside you.
Now a brief update about my recent #ABE shopping
Yesterday I ventured out to Piggly Wiggly at Mid-Town. As I was driving over there I was thinking about how for the past 17 years I have lived in River-west. Everything was close at hand, my job, the store, the boy’s school, and our doctors. Now here I am going way the hell across town to go grocery shopping. I really had to ask myself, “Why” I have made sure that everything I was involved in was in the same box. Is it really for convenience? Or is there another meaning behind my decisions? I think about the fact that in 17yrs I have only lived 3 places and each time the opportUNITY came up for me to move, I never wanted to go past Holton Street. Because that was “THE HOOD” perhaps for the safety and development of my 4 sons is the main reason I didn’t want to move to “THE HOOD”. But I still am rethinking my prior thoughts. ANYWAY I am ranting (that is what blogging is for right?) ;)
My shopping experience at the Pig was pretty decent. I felt good about doing my weekly (maybe bi-weekly if my sons don’t eat too much) there. The prices were comparable some if not better than Pick and Save, the employees were friendly and helpful the store was pretty clean, I found eveything easily and I found most of the regular food I buy and some items I was like “ooh, let me try this.” I feel like I was depriving myself so to speak of other items because I never went anyplace new. I could be thinking to deep, but I’m glad I am thinking.
All Black Everything is not a fad it’s a movement
It’s real nigga shit ;)
MVP
Sacrifice is opportUNITY; this is what I got out of our meeting tonight. (that and a whole lot of other things). But this is sticking with me, the discussion being that we don’t want people to see this as a sacrifice but as opportUNITY. For me, a lot of these next 30 days will be sacrificing some part of myself but with a purpose.
As Mo said in her blog post we are fasting. And yes, we are. When I think about the times in my life that I choose to go on a spiritual fast in search of hearing from and focusing on my Father my creator. I gave up things that were hard for me (or that I thought would be hard) like Facebook and chocolate. But one thing I learned is that once you stop focusing on what you are giving up (loosing) and start to focus on what you a gaining (winning) then the sacrifice is opportUNITY and not really a sacrifice. If you are doing something out of Love and with Love driving you, then you can’t go wrong.
Not to say it is easy, anything worth having requires work hard work and dedication. Something that I notice about myself personally I am willing to do more, because people deserve more. The crazy thing is as I focus and this movement and the direction it is heading, the direction we are heading my focus in not even on me. I mean I envision a great community for our people I see myself looking on from a sideline perspective with the thought of look at what we did and all the lives we helped to change and impact for the better. And I know my life in the process is changing as well but THAT is not even the important piece. *shrug*
I am a firm believer that we all can do something. The question is, are you willing to go above and beyond what you already know you can do? It is a personal question that only an individual can answer. I have answered for myself and I encourage you to do the same. We are mad about the condition of our people, our inner city, lack of support from elected officials etc. I say it’s time to really reflect on what it means to be mad about something talk about the change we need and see how much change you have inside you.
Now a brief update about my recent #ABE shopping
Yesterday I ventured out to Piggly Wiggly at Mid-Town. As I was driving over there I was thinking about how for the past 17 years I have lived in River-west. Everything was close at hand, my job, the store, the boy’s school, and our doctors. Now here I am going way the hell across town to go grocery shopping. I really had to ask myself, “Why” I have made sure that everything I was involved in was in the same box. Is it really for convenience? Or is there another meaning behind my decisions? I think about the fact that in 17yrs I have only lived 3 places and each time the opportUNITY came up for me to move, I never wanted to go past Holton Street. Because that was “THE HOOD” perhaps for the safety and development of my 4 sons is the main reason I didn’t want to move to “THE HOOD”. But I still am rethinking my prior thoughts. ANYWAY I am ranting (that is what blogging is for right?) ;)
My shopping experience at the Pig was pretty decent. I felt good about doing my weekly (maybe bi-weekly if my sons don’t eat too much) there. The prices were comparable some if not better than Pick and Save, the employees were friendly and helpful the store was pretty clean, I found eveything easily and I found most of the regular food I buy and some items I was like “ooh, let me try this.” I feel like I was depriving myself so to speak of other items because I never went anyplace new. I could be thinking to deep, but I’m glad I am thinking.
All Black Everything is not a fad it’s a movement
It’s real nigga shit ;)
MVP
ABE Day 2&3
#allBLACKeverything Day 2&3
Well yesterday was pretty uneventful in the quest for purchasing from Black owners. I didn’t need anything, I took my lunch to work and we had leftovers for dinner. After work however I took my 8 yr old to the lake we did stop off at McDonalds on East North for a small snack, (he was SO starving) They had a new 100% Juice drink (Slushy Like) It was pretty good.
I was however inspired by my girl B and her blog post. I so appreciated how she laid her plans and included her children in them. *AWESOME* Now, I was thinking oh, I am going to do the same thing. But I still am on the fence about talking to mine; (My 16 yr. old already thinks I’m being racist ever since I began getting my gas only on the BP on Atkinson) LOL. I may just have him read her entry and see what he thinks.
I kind of want to continue making changes and see if in fact they notice and ask questions about things.
I have however stumbled upon some questions when thinking about the whole process.
1) I have to get my cat fixed, so where is a black owned vet? ( I still don’t know where I can buy their food at)
2) I frequent the corner store by my house, OFTEN. The owner although he is not black, ever since I have known him, he employees Black men, (so should that count for something?) The children go there a lot after coning me out of dollars here and there so do I
4) I have to get new soil for my garden (the car thieves stole my 10 bags of soil ggrrr) SO where do I get that from?
5) Oh, the Goodwill!! My favorite place. (made me feel kinda sad inside)
6) My son wanted money for the book fair, (We have a million books they don’t read so I wasn’t giving him any money anyway) but I did have to think about that, like hummm…
Just a few things I have to consider; none of which have caused me to second guess my decision.
I am excited to learn about more places and people to support, I only hope this will grow (really already has) into something bigger than ourselves (really it already is)
I even decided to start my own Partylight business and I have a couple other ideas that have been floating around in my head for a while and am trying to bring them to pass but as I was thinking about what I needed to do to get those up and running, I was suck wondering.
Can I buy those supplies from a Black owned establishment? ;)
I attempted today to shop at a location I believed to be black owned, the Galst Food Mart on North Ave. I actually liked it in there, but come to find out; they are not black owned anymore. L
I believe everything in time, so I plan to be very patient and take it one day at a time.
I did get the best ICED CHAI TEA from CMYB this morning! YUMMY!!
MVP
Well yesterday was pretty uneventful in the quest for purchasing from Black owners. I didn’t need anything, I took my lunch to work and we had leftovers for dinner. After work however I took my 8 yr old to the lake we did stop off at McDonalds on East North for a small snack, (he was SO starving) They had a new 100% Juice drink (Slushy Like) It was pretty good.
I was however inspired by my girl B and her blog post. I so appreciated how she laid her plans and included her children in them. *AWESOME* Now, I was thinking oh, I am going to do the same thing. But I still am on the fence about talking to mine; (My 16 yr. old already thinks I’m being racist ever since I began getting my gas only on the BP on Atkinson) LOL. I may just have him read her entry and see what he thinks.
I kind of want to continue making changes and see if in fact they notice and ask questions about things.
I have however stumbled upon some questions when thinking about the whole process.
1) I have to get my cat fixed, so where is a black owned vet? ( I still don’t know where I can buy their food at)
2) I frequent the corner store by my house, OFTEN. The owner although he is not black, ever since I have known him, he employees Black men, (so should that count for something?) The children go there a lot after coning me out of dollars here and there so do I
- “Forbid” them from spending “my” money there?
- Make them earn EVERY dollar, so then it is theirs and they can spend it how they like?
- Just don’t give them money. J
4) I have to get new soil for my garden (the car thieves stole my 10 bags of soil ggrrr) SO where do I get that from?
5) Oh, the Goodwill!! My favorite place. (made me feel kinda sad inside)
6) My son wanted money for the book fair, (We have a million books they don’t read so I wasn’t giving him any money anyway) but I did have to think about that, like hummm…
Just a few things I have to consider; none of which have caused me to second guess my decision.
I am excited to learn about more places and people to support, I only hope this will grow (really already has) into something bigger than ourselves (really it already is)
I even decided to start my own Partylight business and I have a couple other ideas that have been floating around in my head for a while and am trying to bring them to pass but as I was thinking about what I needed to do to get those up and running, I was suck wondering.
Can I buy those supplies from a Black owned establishment? ;)
I attempted today to shop at a location I believed to be black owned, the Galst Food Mart on North Ave. I actually liked it in there, but come to find out; they are not black owned anymore. L
I believe everything in time, so I plan to be very patient and take it one day at a time.
I did get the best ICED CHAI TEA from CMYB this morning! YUMMY!!
MVP
ALL BLACK EVERYTHING!
#ALLBLACKEVERYTHING DAY 1
The challenge for the next 30 days, to buy from only Black owned establishments support our own and recycle the Black dollar. When I first heard about the challenge, I didn’t have to think twice about deciding jump on it. (In my Sir Mix a Lot Voice)
(I think I kind of “Bogarted” my way into the initial group of friends who came up with the idea but I love them I’m glad they graciously included me.;))
But For me, it just made sense for very few reasons. It doesn’t take much for me to do what I can. I have a saying “If I can, I will” It’s just that simple
1. The Black community is suffering
2. If we don’t do something to try and turn things around, we are a part of the problem
3. We have to take care of our own; no one is going to do it for us
4. There is potential all around us, let us tap into each other support and build.
First, let me say that I typically shop at the “normal” big business corporations. Pick N Save, Wal-Mart (Yes, I know how bad they are) Target etc. I try not to eat out a lot but I frequent McDonald’s (yes, I know how bad they are too) Where ever else my young sons con me into stopping. I often eat lunch with co-workers have them pick me up something where they go etc.
So day one: I leave for work, I often stop through McDonalds for coffee (now, the one I go to is Black owned) but I choose to make my own coffee for once. (Why else do I have a coffee pot at home) As I go through the day and lunch time approaches, I invited myself to lunch with a co-worker and our mutual friend. (I guess I stay pushing my way into people’s lives) they were happy for me to join them because well, I’m a wonderful person! ;) but they couldn’t decide where to go so I got to pick. I had been craving noodles and Company for like three weeks!! So I jumped on that, we made the plans to go….then I was like oooh, snap! *literally that’s what I said* sent out a text like hey lets support local business and go to CMYB! After a little resistance it was a go. (had they not agreed I would have passed) We added another person to the mix so the four of us met up and had lunch. *almost messed up on the first day* I frequent there often (my friends were shocked because everyone knew my name and I was talking to everyone) LOL The wait was kind of long but the food was over all good. I hope they will return to support.
I also filled up at the BP on Atkinson, now I have been doing that ever since I found out that was the only black owned gas station in the city, so that was not anything out of the normal either.
After work I head on over to Pick N Save to get something’s for dinner…*Oooh Snap* Swooped back around to go to Lena’s on Fon Du Lac. Okay, now I am out of my element. For real. I haven’t been to Lena’s in a while, when It was on East Capitol I really liked it a lot and shopped there often. My trip was not the best experience, it smelled and the cashier refused to ask if they would substitute another brand of milk because they were out of the sale brand. Now I am very pick customer, I know my rights, I know what managers can do if they choose to. I worked as a supervisor at Jewel- Osco for like 6 years. And at “my” Pick N Save they know me, (when my children are lost in the store I have to page them myself) LOL It took a lot for me not to start using my “customer is always right” voice. I decided to chop it up for the cause and go about my business. The other items I bought did not have too much difference in price, the selection is far less than Pick N Save but overall it was decent.
So I spent all my dollars on day 1 Supporting Black owned businesses.
Here are my challenges/ advantages that I foresee in the future
1. It’s hard to switch gears from a normal routine but I think it is good for my mind. Change is good.
2. I think I will save money in the long run because I will be mindful of where my money is going and to whom and not stopping everyplace for everything
3. We can hold businesses accountable, so if you want us to support you then we expect a quality of service/ product
4. When I want something like chocolate, or ice cream or anything on a whim that will be kind of hard it is not at my fingertips
5. We can see what we need in our community (like I don’t know where I will get my cats food from) :)
6. Supporting and building up your community feels good!
7. Some sacrafice is going to me made, but that is okay! Its is not all about me! :)
MVP
The challenge for the next 30 days, to buy from only Black owned establishments support our own and recycle the Black dollar. When I first heard about the challenge, I didn’t have to think twice about deciding jump on it. (In my Sir Mix a Lot Voice)
(I think I kind of “Bogarted” my way into the initial group of friends who came up with the idea but I love them I’m glad they graciously included me.;))
But For me, it just made sense for very few reasons. It doesn’t take much for me to do what I can. I have a saying “If I can, I will” It’s just that simple
1. The Black community is suffering
2. If we don’t do something to try and turn things around, we are a part of the problem
3. We have to take care of our own; no one is going to do it for us
4. There is potential all around us, let us tap into each other support and build.
First, let me say that I typically shop at the “normal” big business corporations. Pick N Save, Wal-Mart (Yes, I know how bad they are) Target etc. I try not to eat out a lot but I frequent McDonald’s (yes, I know how bad they are too) Where ever else my young sons con me into stopping. I often eat lunch with co-workers have them pick me up something where they go etc.
So day one: I leave for work, I often stop through McDonalds for coffee (now, the one I go to is Black owned) but I choose to make my own coffee for once. (Why else do I have a coffee pot at home) As I go through the day and lunch time approaches, I invited myself to lunch with a co-worker and our mutual friend. (I guess I stay pushing my way into people’s lives) they were happy for me to join them because well, I’m a wonderful person! ;) but they couldn’t decide where to go so I got to pick. I had been craving noodles and Company for like three weeks!! So I jumped on that, we made the plans to go….then I was like oooh, snap! *literally that’s what I said* sent out a text like hey lets support local business and go to CMYB! After a little resistance it was a go. (had they not agreed I would have passed) We added another person to the mix so the four of us met up and had lunch. *almost messed up on the first day* I frequent there often (my friends were shocked because everyone knew my name and I was talking to everyone) LOL The wait was kind of long but the food was over all good. I hope they will return to support.
I also filled up at the BP on Atkinson, now I have been doing that ever since I found out that was the only black owned gas station in the city, so that was not anything out of the normal either.
After work I head on over to Pick N Save to get something’s for dinner…*Oooh Snap* Swooped back around to go to Lena’s on Fon Du Lac. Okay, now I am out of my element. For real. I haven’t been to Lena’s in a while, when It was on East Capitol I really liked it a lot and shopped there often. My trip was not the best experience, it smelled and the cashier refused to ask if they would substitute another brand of milk because they were out of the sale brand. Now I am very pick customer, I know my rights, I know what managers can do if they choose to. I worked as a supervisor at Jewel- Osco for like 6 years. And at “my” Pick N Save they know me, (when my children are lost in the store I have to page them myself) LOL It took a lot for me not to start using my “customer is always right” voice. I decided to chop it up for the cause and go about my business. The other items I bought did not have too much difference in price, the selection is far less than Pick N Save but overall it was decent.
So I spent all my dollars on day 1 Supporting Black owned businesses.
Here are my challenges/ advantages that I foresee in the future
1. It’s hard to switch gears from a normal routine but I think it is good for my mind. Change is good.
2. I think I will save money in the long run because I will be mindful of where my money is going and to whom and not stopping everyplace for everything
3. We can hold businesses accountable, so if you want us to support you then we expect a quality of service/ product
4. When I want something like chocolate, or ice cream or anything on a whim that will be kind of hard it is not at my fingertips
5. We can see what we need in our community (like I don’t know where I will get my cats food from) :)
6. Supporting and building up your community feels good!
7. Some sacrafice is going to me made, but that is okay! Its is not all about me! :)
MVP
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