If the shoe fits...

“The Eye of Deception”

Your tongue is cunning, so very captivating.

Your pen is eloquent, filled with crafty mendacity's.

Your life is intertwined in duplicitiousness as you follow the imprudent, interferer's, those who lack credence, and seek favors. Under demanding circumstances and pretense, you feverishly chase the currency; the pressure mounts, your health fells, but you equivocate. Quite unscrupulous, a spirit so wicked and masked in deception, that a bitter taste of sweetness and love lie beneath your true being; anxiously you await to escape. You look, but do not see...

I SEE YOU, I PITY YOU, I FORGIVE YOU…

Written and narrated by Eunece V. Franklin-2014

“The Eye of Deception” (Vol. 1)

"True Love"

"True Love"

A poem dedicated to my parents...

"True love" is enduring and everlasting; it is unconditional, unwavering, and flinches not. It is an understanding and a selfless trait that only coexists among "True lovers." Sometimes a sacrifice shared by a soul mate, but always a genuine appreciation shared by both. Yes, live your life with passion and vigor, and make sure you choose the best lover to share your life because...

"True love" excepts the positive flow of energy handed down by the "Karma Gods" like meeting a new love in another country, different background and culture, unexpected to be sure, but "nothing incredible is impossible" because...

"True love” is poetry in motion. It is "when you work to live, not live to work." It is when you meet someone and feel as though you have known them forever. You finish each other's sentence, and it feels natural with no inhibitions, no stress and worry, patience, and love for one another. The relationship is not forced or pretentious, like trying to put a circle in a square- "it is not quite the right fit." There is not a loss of words, and both lovers can always be themselves where each appreciates and respects the other. It is a club where wisdom and graciousness need only apply-as each member is envied by non members.

"True love" allows emotions to fuel enthusiasm, and inner restlessness to disappear as that mystical, magical, 'special one' craves for your attention, and he or she is anxious to share the good news with family, friends, and colleagues. Careful though, ONLY share-- with those who care!   And make love until your hearts beat as one as you travel down the glorious road of bliss and peacefulness. My friend’s, harness the thought like a "May Day" in springtime or envision

"True love" as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot and humid summer day in the sexy cities of New Orleans, New York, or Paris...thirsty anyone???

"True love" is the end of the story where the couple live happily ever after; proudly and responsibly with dignity and honor protecting the realm. Hence, a treasured gift passed down from God, where no man or woman has to settle for less, when he or she is ensured the best. However, there is one exception...you have to believe! You must have faith to experience all of the above. In fact, this is the intersection where passion and "True love" encounters what most will never experience, and some will only read about like a "Fifty Shades of Grey novel."

And that is what "true love" means to me as I patiently await my turn. One can only dream the dream that my parents experienced for 58 years...

Written and Narrated By Eunece V. Franklin (10/28/2013)

Happy New Year!!!

The wonderful thing about a new year... "New possibilities." After all, nothing incredible is impossible!

Happy New Year...

This is MY year...2014!

"Time to achieve all my goals that I have worked towards the last four years."

"A Class Act"

One of the reasons that I have always loved fashion is because I watched my mom dress and apply her makeup many, many times when I was a little girl; the result, "I inherited some of her fashionista style." Mom was a conservative dresser, but loved bold, bright, vibrant colors, which matched her "bigger than life persona." She wore exquisite hats, classy and eloquent scarves, Jackie 'O' gloves and glasses, and of course heels and pantyhose. 

I learned so much from this classy, sassy, vivacious woman (My Mom).

R.I.P. "Fatty"...

Love your middle daughter...

"Change is good"

As I close one door and open another, set to move within three weeks, it has not always been easy, but it’s never been boring. In fact, there is something unique and life-affirming about moving into a new home. After all, a new home provides a new sanctuary where I have the opportunity to pair down my belongings, design the new space, and start a new beginning. I am excited, yet nervous! Nevertheless, I envision hope and optimism as I take a giant leap of faith after spending 18 years of my life at Trevi Square Condominiums! I have lived and loved at Trevi Square. Further, it was the first purchase in my adult life-finally a homeowner, something that my father said was a “right-of-passage” for every responsible American.

Well, I am definitely an American, but not always the most responsible American. After all, it was at Trevi Square where I made numerous “growing” blunders as a young adult. Needless to say, I can assure you that I have lived rather than existed over the past 18 years at Trevi. In fact, walk with me down memory lane. In November of 1995, I remember vividly wanting a 2 bed, 2 bath traditional loft with high ceilings, brick walls, wood burning fireplace, outdoor deck, and a cozy upstairs duplex bedroom; my dream came true! All my friends loved my new bachelorette pad and thought that the space was unique as we planned our first gathering (and many, many more to come). I must admit, the large arched windows provided additional charm overlooking the courtyard to the north, and Michigan Avenue to the south. Notwithstanding, I would have garage parking that was the perfect place to safe-keep my new BMW convertible. It looked as though I had finally arrived, and according to Webster’s dictionary, I was the new BUPPY (“A young, upwardly mobile black professional”) with a loving family, good paying job traveling the country, and a new man to boot! However, I would be remiss in not mentioning my favorite house warming gift at Trevi Square; Mayday, my partner and crime room-mate. A 12 week old Cocker Spaniel, who only passed November 19, 2011. Mayday was the true love of my life, and a gift from GOD; Funny, I guess that is why Dog spelled backwards is GOD! 

Mayday and I will meet up again, but not now as I begin a new journey and continue to embrace CHANGE. This is God’s plan, and I must carry on…

Does an Ivy Education Get You Better Job Prospects? - Vault: Blog

Does an Ivy Education Get You Better Job Prospects? - Vault: Blog

Why settle, when you can have it all...

"There are some that settle for what they need, but I choose to "NOT" settle! I choose to receive what I need, and get what I want!"

 E.V.F

2013

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Today, mark's one of the most celebrated holiday's in Chicago. In fact, Governor Quinn, continues the tradition of "dying the Chicago River" GREEN. Therefore, go out and have a green beer, kiss your neighbor, and celebrate St. Patty's day because TODAY...everyone is Irish!

Beyonce "unveiled"

I watched Beyonce Knowles on HBO last night, and I think her documentary was brilliant public relations! This young lady has grown, and it shows by the intimate conversation that she reveals to her audience. Beautiful, talented, and a smart, shrewd business woman to boot! Beyonce is in a good place in her life with a new baby, supportive family, and a super star husband that she adores. More important, it is refreshing to see a positive documentary that is assured to inspire young ladies. Well done, Ms. Knowles. I am a new fan!

Obama coming to Chicago to 'talk about the gun violence'

Thank you Mr. President!
Obama coming to Chicago to 'talk about the gun violence'

Do Not Stop Dreaming...

In three, weeks, February 26, 2013 to be exact, I will complete my public administration capstone for graduate school. After two, years and a total of four years if you count the attainment of my MBA in June 2011, I am finally ready with full armor on to pursue my dream career. However, not to get ahead of myself because I am currently too busy writing papers, preparing oral presentations, and reading to enjoy the thrill of finally completing my higher-educational journey; I must keep my eye on the prize. So, I digress, but I cannot help but think back to the time when my initial thirst for knowledge to attain a graduate degree was overwhelming, and sometimes I would feel apprehensive. Well, look at me now! I am about to achieve my second masters degree in four years, and yes, the achievement is a monumental one, but I will always remember the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices that I had to endure in the process. I will cherish this experience for a life time, and tell anyone that will listen "dreams do come true--as long as you believe." In fact, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that the journey to transition out of one career into another career would lead me down a path of sheer fulfillment.
I write this story for all the people in a similar predicament to say, "Do not give up because winning is a matter of endurance. As long as you do not quit, you will win." Moreover, do not forget to reward your accomplishments. I look forward to rewarding my educational deeds with a trip to "Back to Europe." Yes, I fell in love with Europe after the study abroad trip a couple of months ago so to satisfy my craving, I am looking into a 21-day destination trip to London, Paris, Rome, Venice, and Barcelona, Spain. Wow! Okay, I need school to be over immediately. -:)

Out with the old, In with the new---

"Out with the old, In with the new---New Years Resolutions" - Success and happiness, which begin with finding your purpose. In doing so, supporting a cause and brainstorming to determine ones passion is reason enough to live. As such, when life seem to frustrate you, get out of your comfort zone by getting out of your way to make a monumental life-change. Furthermore, planning and preparation are paramount tools for any leader to LEAD! In fact, when leading, consider the following to get started: "Intellectual satisfaction, Security, and Fair Compensation. For further analysis, check out what Forbes has to say.

Forbes 10 Resolutions

Gov. Chris Chistie blasts Congress for inaction on Hurricane Sandy aid

Gov. Chris Chistie blasts Congress for inaction on Hurricane Sandy aid 

http://youtube.com/govchristie

THIS IS DISGRACEFUL! WHEN IS THE EAST COAST GOING TO RECEIVE RELIEF FUNDING? IT'S SAD TO SAY, BUT CONGRESS IS DOWN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILIES AS FAR AS SUPPORT  IN THE COUNTRY... :(

Health, Prosperity, and Generosity...

The year is coming to an imminent close, and I would be remiss if I did not blog about the one blessing that I have prayed for all year long. As such, first and foremost, I thank God for watching over me, my family and friends, and for always providing me the answers, when I ask. Second, I thank God for allowing my mother's cancer to be in remission! After several years of this horrific disease ravaging my mom's body, I am proud to say that mom's cancer is in remission. My mom is the strongest woman in the world, and I love her dearly, but her faith, family, graciousness, and medical team are to be commended during the challenging times that we endured. I am so happy she and my dad can celebrate the New Year's Day with family and friends, and I know that but for the grace of God, my "Fatty" is back...XoXoXo

Always remember: "The bad, can make us all better. Good, better, best, never let it rest until your good is better, and your better is the best!!!" Happy New Year...

Senseless Killings in Chicago, Illinois---

Two days remain in 2012, and according to Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, the statistics of homicides have increased since 2008 with a record total of 500. Gang violence, illegal guns, absent parents, a poor educational system, and a lack of community support continues to plague Chicago's West and South side neighborhoods. The senseless killings are enough to make the city of "Big Shoulder's" and other American cities rise and take notice. As such, homicides in Chicago are up 17 percent over the last year, and shootings are up 11 percent...the numbers are staggering and unacceptable! In fact, for the record, Chicago, Illinois has strict gun laws compared to the rest of the country, and yet the proliferation of gun violence in the city continues to increase every year because criminals have easy access to guns. In my humble opinion, you need to isolate the problem areas, instill a 24 hour curfew, identify the known criminals, then call in the National Guard! Doing so will send a clear message..."WE ARE TAKING OUR STREETS BACK, AND OUR CHILDREN!" Community activists, parents, clergymen, politicians, and anyone concerned with the high level of violence in the great city of Chicago should pause for concern. In fact, whether the killings are in Newtown, Connecticut, or Chicago, Illinois, it all leads back to guns and the irresponsible individuals that have access to these weapons of mass destruction. Lastly, bullets do not have eyes, and how long before the tragic killings spread to your neighborhood. I'm just saying...

Merry Christmas...

Merry Christmas everyone because today is a day to spend time with family to reflect upon our blessings (past, present, and future). In fact, my mother, father, siblings, and family and friends are enjoying the holidays in glorious spirits. Further, I cannot wait until dinner time because this is my favorite time of the year...Enjoy!!! Check out one of the Franklin families favorite Christmas songs... http://youtu.be/o3YxvNQgq3M

January 10, 2013...Watch "SCANDAL"

Okay, if Shonda Rhimes; Writer, producer, director, and creator of "Grey's Anatomy" is working on a project...I'm watching! Slow curtain up, and in comes actors Kerry Washington (Olivia, Crisis Manager) and Tony Goldwyn (Fitz, Mr. President) with on-screen authenticity, passion, chemistry, and hotness, and you have a hit TV show..."SCANDAL."

Season 3 premiere of "SCANDAL" on ABC begins Thursday, January 10, 2013...Watch fluidity and complexity in motion. It is smart TV... Check out this hot scene from season 1 Olivia & Fitz...SCANDAL

I'm a huge fan of "Olivia, Fitz & Mellie" and the entire cast

I cannot wait to see them in action on ABC in January 2013!

The Urgency of "NOW"...

An inspiring act of leadership is taking place in the country following the Newtown, Connecticut tragedies. As such, the days of seeking an excuse for “inaction” is no longer acceptable as concerned citizens, lawmakers, mayors, business people, parents, and President Obama’s administration brainstorm to prevent further gun massacres. Hooray! The urgency of ‘NOW’ is vital to the sustainability of this great nation, and I for one cannot wait to participate in the call to action. As such, if you are interested in volunteering useful ideas, time, energy, and the hard work ahead of such monumental tasks, I suggest contacting your local congressman or senator. After all, there is strength in numbers and most organizations will welcome the support. Find your representative:

The "Tipping Point"

http://my.democrats.org/Newtown

President Obama delivered yet another somber moving "eulogy" after a massacre took 20 babies and six adult lives in Newtown, Connecticut; quite moving! In doing so, the president vowed to take action to remember the lives lost, and in my humble opinion, this will define the president's legacy. To be sure, this is a monumental task that the president cannot tackle alone, but if not now, when? Again, there are so many social issues to be discussed, but if the recent tragedies cannot galvanize a society to do the right thing, than we are no better than terrorists slaughtering innocent human beings in third world countries. "We can, and must do better." I'm just saying...

This is not a right/left issue, but as the great  educator 'Horace Mann' said, "Until you have done something for humanity, you should be ashamed to die."

How people die by firearms in the United States:

Total =32,163 

*Murder Suicides- 18,000 

Homicide Suicides-11,000 

Unintentional/Police Interventions-3,163

An overwhelming majority of people die from guns in the United States, and I thought it was important to share with you the truth, rather than the misinformation that flood the media. The numbers above are statistics from 2011 (cdc.gov), and clearly we live in a culture of violence, in the Unites States. That said, the high profile mass shootings that we see on the nightly news are (murder suicides). As such, it is time to take action because we are at war and the enemies are guns, mental illness, and a society of selfish, greedy, irresponsible people afraid to speak the truth, and do the right thing. People so caught up with self interest and ambition that safety and prosperity for all is an after thought. More important, if people have the power to move mountains, when are we going to witness the movement? Wake up America! How many more times do we have to sit and watch the media showcase a list of murdered citizens? In fact, whether the deaths are on the streets of Chicago, a shopping mall in Oregon, or an elementary school in Connecticut, the result is still the same…death; Enough is enough! Are we not tired of grieving for senseless deaths in the country? “If you see something, say something, if you say something, do something.”

I’m just saying…

A Timeline Of Mass Shootings In The US Since Columbine

A Timeline Of Mass Shootings In The US Since Columbine: On Friday morning, 27 people were reportedly shot and killed at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, CT. According to sources, 18 of these casualties were children. This is the second mass shooting in the US this week, after a gunman opened fire in an Oregon shopping mall on Tuesday, killing 2. ABC News reports [...]/p

*Missing from the article: All the Chicago shootings, Brookfield, Wisconsin shooting, Tinley Park, Illinois shooting, and I am sure if we dig a little further, we will be able to list more. That said, it is time to act America! I am sick and tired of having to watch the news (or should I say, the views), sensationalize for ratings the tragic stories of massacre shootings in the country. Conversely, three days after my "mental illness" post, another senseless massacre takes place.  If we are to have an honest discussion on the topic of mass shootings, it cannot only be about GUNS...we have to discuss "MENTAL ILLNESS" too!!! More to the point, "enough discussion, it is time for sane individuals to ban together and ACT!!!"

My prayer's go out to the families of the tragic stories above.  America, what say you on the repeatedly guns & mental illness tragedies, and what action will we take as the result of the above massacres? I'm just saying...

Does loyalty matter?

Susan E. Rice, United States Ambassador..."Got sucker punched!"

The one thing that I can say about President George W. Bush's leadership style, "President Bush would have fought for Condoleezza Rice, had she have been in the Susan Rice's predicament." Case in point, after 911 there were rumblings that Condoleezza Rice, then National Security Advisor, dropped the ball. As such, the rumblings subsided because President Bush is loyal to his people, and he made sure that Ms. Rice's qualifications, integrity, and commitment to the country did not suffer from a smear campaign in the media, or from the opposition party. Therefore, in my opinion, I think it is shameful to see Susan Rice used as the scape goat for the Benghazi tragedy, and further shameful to see President Obama, his administration,  and the democrats lack of defense for Susan Rice; leaving the UN Ambassador out to dry in 120 degree weather without cover! In doing so, Ms. Rice withdraws her hat from the Secretary of State position, leaves with her tail between her legs, and the G.O.P./cynics win the battle. Conversely, it is quite clear that the current administration has no loyalty for its people, which makes one think, "will you have loyalty for the people who voted you into office Mr. President?" Who is next to be thrown under the bus? I'm just saying, loyalty does matter...

Is it time to discuss "Mental Illness" in the U.S.?

Okay America, we can debate about gun control until the cows come home, but when will we have an honest discussion about "mental illness" in the country? In fact, have not we had enough "mental illness" killings in the country? For the record, it is true, there are too many guns on the street (possessed by known criminals), but how many more people have to be killed because a mentally ill person requires adequate care? Unfortunately, it is a double edged sword...mentally ill and carrying a weapon. Question: "How can we have presidential elections where spending billions of dollars on silly ads vying for our vote, but America, a wealthy country cannot invest in helping to get treatment for ill individuals, thus preventing them from going out to shoot innocent people Christmas shopping in a mall?"  It is embarrassing and shameful to watch the nightly news and hear them speak about gun control whenever there is a mass shooting in the country, but fail to speak on the real issue. Case in point, what about the fact "almost 20+ years ago the ACLU and President Reagan single handily changed the trajectory of mental illness in the country through misguided law suits, and cutting funding for mental health facilities. Why not simply reform mental illness services? Why did we have to shut down the facilities that clearly many mentally ill patients require?" In my humble opinion, the country needs to review the existing laws and make revisions, and it is time for America to wake up, speak out, and demand that your elected officials put forth "mental illness" legislation (with funding) to help those in need, and keep the rest of us free from harm. Last, a word to the media, "stop covering up the real issue in some of these mass shootings. Gun control is a political issue, to be sure, but helping to treat mentally ill people is a moral issue. Guns do not shoot themselves people are behind the shootings; unfortunately, some of these people are ill!" I'm just saying...

Study Abroad 2012..."A Fabulous Experience!"

Eunece V. Franklin' presents...

My final (video), which chronicles the fabulous, November 2012' "Study Abroad Trip." 

Enjoy...and SMILE!

Eunece & Fellow Graduate Classmates/Faculty~  

in

London & Paris Nov 2012.

A Musical Legend Dies...

Throughout life, one often remembers the legacy of a musician by the universal language he or she leaves the world. As such, we will remember composer/pianist, Dave Brubeck for his jazz musical talent and social activism. Mr. Brubeck, well known for selling a million copies of the famous "Take Five" single, and for being the first Caucasian to sit in and play with an all black band, dies a day before his 92 birthday. In doing so, since music is a universal language, Mr. Brubeck, and his jazz quartet band has broken numerous musical and social barriers. RIP, sweet prince...perhaps you, Louis, and Coltrane can rock the heavenly house tonight; and that would be one time I would love to be a fly on the wall. -:)

Take a listen to one of jazz music's greatest legends:  http://youtu.be/faJE92phKzI

J'ai tout simplement adorer l'Europe!

My visit to "Le Louvre" in Paris was  Si Magique'! 

I simply adore Europe! I recently completed the study abroad program for graduate school, and the experience was life changing. In fact, I think I have found my new home-away-from-home, and I look forward to re-visiting London, Paris, and Italy, Spring 2013. The culture, people, food & wines, shopping, and companies that I visited was quite impressive. I also had the wonderful opportunity to meet a group of fellow grad students that I consider "life-time friends" because of our study abroad experience. As such, I am looking forward to continuing correspondence with all the people that I met. As for the sites, I especially enjoyed touring Big Ben, The London Tower, Lloyd's of London, Le Louvre, The Eiffel Tower, Versailles, Champs Elysee's, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. The list of museums are a spectacular site to see, as is riding the Euro Star high-speed rail from London to Paris at 186 miles per hour. To be sure, the history is fluid and like something out of a story book. I recommend traveling to other countries in the world because it provides an experience that only one can imagine. To be sure, my experience to Europe for the first time was life changing, and I cannot wait to visit Europe again next year. Thank you so much Keller Graduate School of Management for selecting me as one of the graduate students to represent the "Study Abroad Program" in 2012! The experience was a once in a life time opportunity that I will forever remember. Check out my FB memories (http://www.facebook.com/studyabroadNov2012)

Louie, a fellow grad student and I, at "Le Louvre"...

Sex scandal, gone scandalous!

To single women in the world, if you learn that a man is in a marriage, the last time that I checked, this would deem him "off limits." Have some decency, self-respect, or what about "moral value." In fact, answer me this question, "Have we as a society eliminated the fact that marriage matters?" Are there some in our society willing to ruin the family unit at all costs? In doing so, is ambition, climbing the social ladder, and demonstrating a "Reality TV" persona  the message that we want to send the younger generation? Unfortunately, we hear the media stories of infidelity, over and over, and quite frankly, it is sickening how America's moral capacity continues to slide down the slippery slope of "indecent behavior." Worst; what about the innocent family and friends who are responsible for picking up the pieces after the dust settles. The inappropriateness of an extramarital affair has become commonplace in this country, and that is quite disturbing. Moreover, it would be nice if the media would stop glorifying this disrespectful behavior, and call it for it is; scandalous!

As such, ladies & gents, before you begin gallivanting around with a married person, remember this quote: " "What goes around, comes around," and 'Karma' is a...

Elections have Consequences

It is the economy...STUPID! The economy will grow at 4-5% when people are working; let's get this country working. Moreover, if the Democratic Party allows the Republican Party to continue to obstruct, and cause chaos and mass confusion the next four years, I think the American people will give up on both parties, and we will see a third party resurrect. As such, first things first: "ALLOW THE BUSH TAX CUTS TO EXPIRE!" The extension of the Bush tax cuts are costing the country billions of dollars, and Americans do not want to witness "A modern day 'Greece' in the United States. Wise Up...elected officials!"

You have to "Believe to Retrieve"

A message to the Northeast citizens, and for American's to open their hearts & wallets : During the past year, what appear to be tragedy, turns out to be a blessing in disguise and provide the opportunity to recommit to "faith."  In fact, oftentimes it takes trials and tribulations to reaffirm what one already is aware of, and that is, "You have to Believe to Retrieve." Retrieve the blessings that will enable everyone to be open, honest, humble, and generous. As such, when things appear catastrophic (Northeast brothers and sisters) take a deep breath and lean on your faith; even if you think the time is now, but it happens later, know that your 'God' makes no mistakes and works on his time schedule. Keep the faith, and make no mistake, help is on the way; if you believe...

My thoughts and prayer's be with you, and know that the words above are from experience...Keep the faith!

"What 's happened to the party of Lincoln?"

Young people, Latinos, Blacks, Women, Asians, and the Gay community, have re elected President Obama for another "4 More Years."  In doing so, prior to the President's victory lap, he confidently stated in his re election speech, "Americans are greater than their individual ambitions." So true; Mr. President! However, now that the political punditry has begun on why Governor Romney lost the race, the bigger question that Americans are asking "What's happened to the party of Lincoln; "After all, President Abraham Lincoln was famous for negotiating with "A Team of Rivals." Nonetheless, the Republican party appears to lack inclusiveness, honesty, and the capability of articulating a clear and positive vision for the nation. My advice,  "You might want to ask Congressman Ron Paul how he was able to energize so many "NEW" follower's in his campaign. Last, DO NOT listen to your mean spirited, hate mongering factions within your party, and always remember that civility trumps hate." I'm just saying...

"The big winner is DEMOCRACY because money cannot buy elections in the 21st century!"

Bienvenus! CineMoi...

For those interested in film, fashion, and quality programming, you have to check out "CineMoi." I have previewed so many classic films (and I love the classics e.g., TCM channel), but more profound, if you are sick and tired of the "dummy-down" programs out there e.g., "Reality TV," then I know you will appreciate this "sexy" channel. In addition, it is a global channel that features wonderful new talent (Independent films/Foreign films), talented artists, and a plethora of informative and artistic masterpieces that allow one to sit back and enjoy "smart programming." If you are a "free thinking, creative individual," and enjoy vintage cinema, and thought provoking films with depth, check out the latest press release for more information:

CineMoi...Launches in the U.S.

"I am a huge fan of CineMoi". Merci! I have found a new home (Ch. 259) Direct TV...

Hurricane 'Sandy' devastates the East Coast!

The aftermath of Hurricane Sandy has all eyes on the Northeast, and let's hope that FEMA, the media, and all parties involved in assisting our fellow citizens have learned from Hurricane Katrina. First and foremost, if people are displaced, for whatever reason, please, please, do not call them "REFUGEES!" Many people (I, included) were quite disgusted to turn on the television, only to hear American citizens from New Orleans, being called refugees; what an appalling affront. It was disgraceful! Last, Hurricane Sandy is a devastating hurricane, and unlike the behavior in the media displayed seven years ago, let us hope that we have learned that WORDS and ACTIONS matter; particularly since we are talking about the lives of millions, and millions of people! Patience and professionalism, compassion, honesty, and humility are required in times of crisis. I'm just saying...

"One hopes for the best, but prepares for the worst. Please God, protect the United States and ALL the citizens"...

John Sununu: Colin Powell Endorsed Obama Because He’s Black

John Sununu: Colin Powell Endorsed Obama Because He’s Black

Question. "Mr. Sununu, based on your argument for General Powell's endorsement of President Obama, am I to assume the same argument for you, if you vote for Gov. Romney?"  Ah...Politics has a way of casting a light on ones 'true feelings.' To Mr. Sununu's credit, at least he's being honest. (lol)...

Is Authenticity Important in Friendships?

Shakespeare gave us this ethical principle: "This above all - to thine own self be true. When our behavior does not match our values, we are not living authentically." As such, years ago, I learned the importance of  "being real," which is the main reason that I like to surround myself with like-minded individuals. Unfortunately, being an outgoing, high-spirited, outspoken person, over the years, I have unwittingly allowed people with differing opinions to come into my life. Yes, variety is the spice of life, unless the spice promotes negativity, false hope, and quite frankly, phony promises. Further, this begs the question, "Is Authenticity Important in Friendships?" Well, according to Dr. Carl Hammerschlag, pioneer in Body-Spirit Medicine, and Faculty member, University of Arizona Medical School, "Being authentic; the key to truly happy, healthy relationships. It is not possible to be happy without being true to yourself. Unfortunately, many people live their entire lives never discovering their authentic self. In fact, being authentic is being genuine, not a fake persona that you want people to see."

Hallelujah, Dr. Hammerschlag. I concur! Nonetheless, I am fortunate to have met some honest, decent people full of positive mind, spirit, and integrity, whom I consider true friends. Therefore, YES, authenticity is vital for any lasting friendship. Admittedly, it does not take me long  to spot a phony, and my response to them, "Please stay away from me!"

For further information on this fascinating topic, check out Dr. Hammerschlag's book for guidance and spirituality: http://wwsg.com/hammerschlag-carl-md

Hooray for Civility!

It was nice to see President Obama and Governor Romney poke fun at each other at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner in New York. Both men were extremely funny, and was able to show a humorous side to their personality. My favorite one-liners included the president making fun of his middle name, and the governor making fun of how he and his wife dress around the house.

Take a look for yourself, and be prepared to laugh a little because if you can't poke fun at yourself from time to time, then life can get pretty mundane. I'm just glad to see that "politics" does not define these two powerful men. I'm just saying...

President Obama, one-liners (http://youtu.be/vvXCVCEkdts)                       

Governor Romney, one-liners (http://youtu.be/mCVX_iFJ_8k)

The sweetest news on "Sweetest Day"

Today is Sweetest Day, and the "Sweetest" news that I have received is that my mom is home. After months of being hospitalized, physical therapy, and lots of prayers, my mom is finally home where she belongs! I spoke to my dad, and I could hear the joy in his voice. The joy of finally having his "life mate" back home amongst her family, photos, flowers and all the things that we sometime take for granted. I spoke to my mom, and like the typical mom, she inquired about what was going on in my life. She wanted to know if I were preparing for my European trip, she asked about the weather in Chicago, and more important, she asked if I were getting ready for the holiday season, as she knows that Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter are my favorite holidays. 

As such, for those of you that take life for granted, always remember this glorious prayer that mom reminded me of today, Psalm 41:3 "The LORD sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness." As usual, you are correct again mommy!   Luv you Fatty... 

God is good. Thanks mom and dad for being  YOU...

Ethel Kennedy, RFK's Rock...

I watched the HBO documentary of Ethel Kennedy, directed, produced, and narrated by Ethel and Senator, Robert F. Kennedy's youngest daughter, Rory Kennedy. The well known Kennedy legacy, a story of courage, dignity, tragedy, charisma, and of course Camelot, rarely tell the story of the women behind the powerful Kennedy men; Ethel Kennedy is one of the fascinating women that I attribute to Robert F. Kennedy's success. In fact, news flash, "Anyone that can raise eleven children with a continuous smile on her face, deserves respect and admiration!" I have a tremendous amount of respect for Ethel Kennedy (and the Kennedy women in general) because under the microscope of the world, as tragedies unfold before staring eyes; Ethel's poise, grace, and character brightly shine. The 1960s in the United States were contentious times in the history of the country, so the documentary was a great history lesson to view, and I have even more respect for Ethel and the Kennedy family.

Great job Rory! A beautiful, thoughtful documentary of your mother (family) which demonstrates the power of family, love, legacy, American history, and courage. Further, no violence can erase the fact that your family will always be respected and admired for courage and tenaciousness.

FYI: Growing up, there were four elite photo's hanging on my parents wall, "Jesus, JFK, RFK, and Martin Luther King." I'm just saying...

An "Omage" to Audrey Hepburn...

In less than 40 days, I will embark upon my first trip to Europe; I am so excited! As I prepare for the study abroad program to London and Paris, I am often reminded of one of my favorite European actresses, Audrey Hepburn. Audrey Hepburn exuded class, sophistication, and beauty (inside and out). I hope that I have an opportunity to shop for an "Audrey Hepburn" piece of memorabilia in Paris. In fact, check out one of Audrey's favorite characters on the big screen (sung by the one and only Josephine Baker). Witness her grace, style, elegance, and beauty. Au revoir mes amis...

"La Vie En Rose"

Is Politics Disenchanting?

Liar, Liar, your NOSE is growing...

If the strategy to win the White House is to LIE to the American people, one thing is for certain, "It will not work this time!" In fact, if the media outlets do not call out the "Mendacity" that surrounds the presidential campaign, then they too become a part of the problem. Furthermore, it is amazing how politicians and the media underestimates the intelligence of the American people. However, I will venture to say that most American's want to hear innovative ideas that will get this country back on track; a positive vision for the country. Thus far, the only thing that most American's have witnessed is the large donor dollars that have passed through the political cycle, and ruined democracy in the process. 

There is an old saying to keep in mind when heading to the ballot box this November: "Men of genius, are admired, Men of wealth, are envied, Men of power, are feared, but only Men of CHARACTER...are trusted!" 

I'm just saying...