beauty found in destruction

 

A supercell that became a tornado-like vortex over Amarillo, Texas.

1 comment | May 11th, 2008

message to my daughters…

Never allow someone to be your priority while allowing yourself to be their option.

(Inspired from me being on the Glow In Dark Tour.)

1 comment | May 11th, 2008

Learn to say ‘no’ to the good so you can say ‘yes’ to the best.

I wish I would’ve come up with that quote by John C. Maxwell.  It made me think how I’m never satisfied when told something is good.  I believe good is the enemy of great.

2 comments | May 10th, 2008

the source of genius revealed

WARNING: This video from 1974 will change how you look at pop culture!

This isn’t meant to be a diss…but it is what it is.

4 comments | May 9th, 2008

the genius behind being a genius is…

…simply applying what you know to what another genius has already done.  Brillant, isn’t it?!

Add comment | May 8th, 2008

being from the south side of chicago…

…I know a gang beat down when I see one!

Add comment | May 7th, 2008

very honest manipulation

Add comment | May 5th, 2008

again with the mind play

I’ve heard of Jamaican Hard Dough Bread, but this is ridiculous!

Add comment | May 5th, 2008

instructions for the thinking challenged

I wish this wasn’t real, but unfortunately their are some people who really don’t want to figure things out for themselves.

And just to be clear, that’s not my hat!!!

Add comment | May 5th, 2008

an extreme of it’s all about me!

I’ve been known to be a little self-centered as well as an extremist at times, but this is even too much for me.  This had to come from the someone who was tired of having the covers snatched off in the middle of the night.

It funny how my self-centeredness formed that opinion of this picture.  I say that because the romantic in me sees an expression of someone who really likes to snuggle!

Add comment | May 2nd, 2008

iThink

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.  Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking.  Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice.  And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.  They somehow already know what you truly want to become.  Everything else is secondary.”

- Steve Jobs, Apple Co-Founder

Add comment | May 1st, 2008

uhmm…OK?

I’m not sure if I take more issue with what’s said or how it was said. 

As I was just about to post this, a thought came to me…why is this funny?  Obviously this was an expression of some one’s frustration who’s just trying to make a honest living here in America.  And just because they haven’t conquered the language yet, I put them on blast for ridicule.

Wow, am I turning into this very thoughtful being who no longer finds humor at the expense of others…uhmm…not so much…because funny is funny!!!

Add comment | May 1st, 2008

a lesson learned

It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.

Add comment | April 30th, 2008

thought provoking lyrics

I’ve always liked these lyrics from India Arie’s song “Video”…

But, I’ve drawn a conclusion, it’s all an illusion,
Confusion’s the name of the game
A misconception, a vast deception
Something’s gotta change
But, don’t be offended this is all my opinion
Ain’t nothing that I’m sayin law
This is a true confession of a life learned lesson
I was sent here to share with y’all

1 comment | April 30th, 2008

uhmm…maybe the media is right?!

1 comment | April 29th, 2008

is this the core demographic that the media says has so much voting influence?

As I watch some of the cable news shows, at times I get extremely annoyed by how they speak to the listener as if they’re all stupid.  I just can’t figure out how they’re able to get away with it.  Why is there no mass public outrage for them now clearly making the news instead of just reporting the news?  They’re constantly making stories that are designed to create an emotional reaction.  The main problem I have with this is when a decision is made based on emotions, that’s a decision made without thinking.  Now ask yourself, how many times has that worked in your favor?

And for all those who are some how offended by this picture…uhmm…I wonder why?!

1 comment | April 29th, 2008

attention all parents…there’s a deadly trend!

This is an article reported by Michelle Kosinski, NBC News Correspondent on MSNBC.com.  I feel it’s a very important read, especially with the ease of information spreading via the internet where most of our young spend alot of their time.

LONDON – “Everyone around here is doing it.”  “It has become a trend.”  “I have thought about doing it myself.”  Somehow, these are all quotes from teenagers, talking about – suicide.

Since the start of 2007, 19 teenagers and young adults have taken their own lives in the tiny towns scattered through the southern Welsh county of Bridgend, where people have been living along the Ogmore River for centuries. Total population: around 130,000. (more…)

1 comment | April 28th, 2008

oh my god becky…like those oranges are sooo big!

 

I wonder why it’s considered cute when Del Monte does it, but it’s lewd when Sir Mix-A-Lot does it? (uhmm…is the Sir Mix-A-Lot reference still relevant?)

In any case, I’ve just become quite thirsty!

Add comment | April 28th, 2008

very well said

Add comment | April 27th, 2008

i love feedback!!!

This was a response to a recent statement I made that “Great minds don’t think alike, they think for themselves.”

“It’s true that people, generally, do not think alike, but if you are trained logically, there is tendency that you will think alike because you are faced with facts. Oh!  The other philosophy; “They think for themselves”.  This is obnoxious.  Anyone who thinks for his or herself alone is selfish, and has nothing positive to contribute to human race.”

Wow!  First let me say that most “facts” have the common flaw of being limited to the person’s perspective who’s presenting them.  So, please get as much information possible in order to make the best decision for yourself.  I’m sure no one would take issue with that…right?

And secondly, I wonder why anyone would think it’s defined as obnoxious when you’re not necessarily influenced by others…and because of so, you’re not capable of making a positive contribution to the human race?

I feel it’s my strong independent thinking which has created mutiple opportunities for me to help others.  I’m quite confident with a cookie cutter mindset, I wouldn’t have been able to have a positive impact when speaking to Bronx High School students (especially when I’m not an athlete or entertainer) or even have the gull to write a book that inspired a reader to reconnect with their father.

Regardless of how wrong or right, I love when what I think sparks others to think…so keep the feedback coming!!!

Add comment | April 25th, 2008

missed opportunity?

Why do you think someone chose to take a picture instead of helping Grandma out?

Add comment | April 25th, 2008

innovation for the truly lazy

I found “may be used as litter” quite funny.  Even I wouldn’t have thought of that one! (uhmm…maybe I would have…I’m pretty bright!)

Add comment | April 25th, 2008

an eco-friendly hustle…and I mean that in a good way

 

The idea of Pedaled Phone Calls was created for those who live in parts of the world where cell phones are still a luxury. Here in America, these three wheeled bikes are usually used to sell ice-cream, pop-corn, or hot dogs. But in Nicaragua, the same kind of vehicle brings a pedal powered mobile to the people in need of making a call. Ten minutes of pedaling produces an hour of battery life.
 

Add comment | April 25th, 2008

the mind of an entrepreneur…it takes one to know one

“Most of entrepreneurship, for me, is about instinct and intuition.  Many times I have been asked by someone considering a new venture if he should go for it.  But an entrepreneur knows instinctively when to go for it.”

- Michael Dell, Founder and Chairman, Dell

1 comment | April 24th, 2008

not the time for doubt

There are times in life when you just have to go for it and dare to be you.  Only time can reveal if you had the talent, skill and discipline to conquer what was so obviously unnecessary to everyone else.

Add comment | April 23rd, 2008

this has to encourage speeding!!!

Add comment | April 23rd, 2008

message to the american consumer…raise your standards!

I’m quite confident this would only sell in America and I don’t mean that as a compliment.

Add comment | April 23rd, 2008

I’ve heard of dreadlocks, but shitlocks reggie?!

What do you think are his career options?

3 comments | April 23rd, 2008

the way to be a friend

OK, I must admit that I laughed for about 5 minutes straight when I first saw this picture.  Once I regained my composure, I was actually inspired by it. 

It made me think about how a true friend will use their strength to support a friend.  And by doing so, the friend who receives the support is made to feel strong themselves.  Wow, it’s funny how we can be inspired by the strangest things!

Or does that big guy just have some control issues?

(NOTE: This picture was not done in photoshop which makes it so much more funny!)

2 comments | April 22nd, 2008

what a way to ride

As innovative as I am, I would’ve never thought to do this. This just goes to show how we all can have growth moments.

2 comments | April 22nd, 2008

a sharp pencil = a sharp mind

All I’m saying is my pencils would’ve been the sharpest in class.

3 comments | April 22nd, 2008

it must be the money

This chart represents the 2007-2008 U.S. discretionary budget, the portion of the budget that the President and Congress creates each year.  It does not include Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and interest on the national debt.  Source: Congressional Budget Office

Now for all those who are following the presidential race, I think this should have a greater concern than how someone bowls or drinks shots with beer chasers.  Don’t get caught up by these old distraction techniques.

Add comment | April 21st, 2008

interesting concept

Imagine this concept the first time it was introduced to the city council for approval.  I sure it was titled the “See As You Pee” public restroom project.

 

Add comment | April 21st, 2008

the art of illusion

If you look at it carefully, it should come to you how this is done.

Add comment | April 21st, 2008

what a big difference that small can make!

It’s clear that technology has made its mark in our daily lives.

When I saw this picture, it made me think about how advancement in technology is defined as smaller and faster…which I’m sure is an approach that the ladies aren’t in agreement with.

I find it quite amusing that with all the new conveniences of technology, we seem to have less time. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We’ve learned how to make a better living, but not a better life. We’ve added years to life, but not life to years.

Could there be a technology breakthrough that would allow us to slow down and actually enjoy life more…oh wait, there is…the power to use the greatest computer ever made…OUR BRAINS!

Add comment | April 21st, 2008

life is fun when you do things just for fun

Having fun shouldn’t stop when you become an adult.  One should maintain their childhood while accepting responsibility…and a secret to having fun is staying in the moment!

Add comment | April 18th, 2008

nature vs. nurture

It’s the age old question, is a person more a product of their nature or their nurturing?  I’ve come to the conclusion that people are more a product of their nature.

I believe this to be true because who we are begins with our nature and it’s the individual’s nature that dictates the response to the nurturing.

Add comment | April 17th, 2008

the only goal is to keep them off the pole!

Nature vs. Nurture pt.II

It’s apparent that the influence of a parent is great…but ask yourself, why did this appeal to the child?

(This is an actual drawing from a elementary school student.)

Add comment | April 17th, 2008

one of these kids is doing their own thing!

Nature vs. Nurture pt.III

Now do you see a future comedian or inmate?

Say what you will, but I find this freaking hilarious and only wish I would’ve done at that age.

Add comment | April 17th, 2008

lack of a thought process pt.II

I’ve never claimed to be the smartest person in the world (OK, maybe I think I’m the smartest person that I know), but whoever came up with this ad clearly rode the short bus to school.

Do you think the billboard advertising company took advantage of the…uhmm…not so smart?  I’m sure there are laws against that.

Add comment | April 16th, 2008

lack of a thought process pt.I

Parking at the amusement park…$12

Bungee jump…$45

Having your picture put up on the Internet after you shit on yourself on the jump…PRICELESS!

Remember that just because others do it doesn’t mean that you should.  Think it through folks, think it through!

Add comment | April 16th, 2008

proof positive that we’re in a recession

I don’t know about you, but my hustle just went into overdrive!

(And for anyone who thinks this is mean…uhmm, I didn’t tell her to put on that shirt.)

1 comment | April 15th, 2008

what they’re really thinking

For the record, I do not believe in the caging of any living being for entertainment purposes.

Add comment | April 15th, 2008

a natural beauty

1 comment | April 15th, 2008

content vs. intent

For most of my life, I have always had to defend my process of doing things.  I’m a person who thrives in doing things my way and has never set out to do things just like everyone else.  Fortunately for me, I never bought into not doing something just because no one else was doing it.  I find this is a great way to continually challenge myself to become better at any and everything I do.

I say that to say…don’t get side tracked by focusing on the WHAT of an action.

The real power is found in the WHY of an action.  So many situations in life could or would be avoided if you were to begin to seek out the true intent of actions instead of merely focusing on the content.

Although this perspective may not always be the easiest to grasp, it has the greatest potential of being the most worthwhile.

If you can stlil udnesrtnad waht you are raednig rgiht now, deos is tkae aawy from the msesgae taht one shuold seacrh for intnet oevr contnet in actoins?

Add comment | April 14th, 2008

soup or salad?

The perfect invention for all of us who burn the midnight oil trying to get out our dreams. 

Add comment | April 14th, 2008

where’s peta when you need them?

I’m not saying I know everything about fashion…but I do know this isn’t it!

Add comment | April 14th, 2008

think for yourself pt.III

This video proves my previous point perfectly…THE MEDIA IS NOT BASED ON REALITY!  

Now I do give props to the creators of the video.  I really dig how they made a clearly “don’t try this at home” video look so amateurish.

Now for all the “Little Johnnys” who actually think that by putting on a pair of sneakers by Kobe Bryant will some how allow them to leap over a car speeding towards them…uhmm…I’m sure the entire medical profession will be leaping with joy by your decision!

Add comment | April 12th, 2008

the reality of advertising

I had the recent honor of speaking on a panel at North Carolina Central University to discuss W.E.B DuBois’ “The Talented Tenth” theory.  One of the topics covered was the negative influence of the media and artists of today.

After further reflection, I think it’s my responsibility to offer a solution to this matter.  Especially since I’ve been in a position to create many images which are now in the market place for the last 12 years.

Please understand this…the media and art is not based on reality.  It has not, and will not, EVER be based on reality.  It’s based on very creative people coming up with very creative methods to sell either an idea or a product.  And no matter how creative, by default the creativity is limited by the person who comes up with it.

I think a solution is to never believe anything, no matter where you read it, saw it or heard it, unless it agrees with your own common sense.  This way you’ll have complete ownership of how the influence will affect you.  And I’m confident that most people won’t choose the negative ones…right?

Add comment | April 11th, 2008

think for yourself pt.I

I’m not sure of the exact date of this ad, but I’m sure it’s before Hip Hop.  So for all those who keep saying that my beloveth Hip Hop is responsible for the misogynistic views of today…think again my friend!

Although I wasn’t there, I’m confident this ad refelcts the mindset of an INDIVIDUAL who wanted to connect with the general population.  Nothing more than that!  Now ask yourself, did this ad work and more importantly, why?

If you don’t like the ideals being presented, simply put yourself in a position to change them.

Add comment | April 11th, 2008