Get Into The Zone

So much to celebrate this week. History is being made. History is being celebrated. I haven't have much time to do blogs (at least on the Axe) because health priorities come first. The Democratic National Convention, history marking Barack Obama's place, the celebration of Women's Right to Vote, and so much more... It makes my heart swell with pride.

I'm in the zone and hope people are feeling encouraged. Its easy sometimes to see the negative, without recognizing the positive, but there are always better days. Better moments that help us to be thankful we're alive. Words fail me this morning, but I feel very optimistic and blessed lately.

Finally, I get it! Thank God!

Quiz

Thanks to Cocoa Rican for the link for this quiz!

You Are 4: The Individualist

You are sensitive and intuitive, with others and yourself. You are creative and dreamy... plus dramatic and unpredictable. You're emotionally honest, real, and easily hurt. Totally expressive, others always know exactly how you feel. At Your Best: You are inspired, artistic, and introspective. You know what you're thinking, and you can communicate it well. At Your Worst: You are melancholy, alienated, and withdrawn. Your Fixation: Envy Your Primary Fear: To have no identity Your Primary Desire: To find yourself Other Number 4's: Alanis Morisette, Johnny Depp, J.D. Salinger, Jim Morrison, and Anne Rice.

What Number Are You?

Choice Made And Announced

I'd just gotten off to sleep this morning when the Text Message finally came through. It was no surprise because T and I stayed up late watching CNN most of the evening. After awhile, a two year old coulda guessed Barack had chosen Joe Biden. Was it really worth all he hype? I'm not sure.

Political pundits are either applauding Senator Obama's choice or reinforcing the notion bruh is not ready for the Oval Office. This subject is rather trite. Was "W" any more prepared? I mean, George Bush, Jr failed at mostly every venture he entered into and he achieved the Presidency. John McCain is out of touch with reality, but all those folks think he'll do such a wonderful job. Why not give a new kid on the block, like Barack Obama, a chance to prove himself?

As the months draw closer to the November election, my optimism is waning Obama will win. As out of touch as McCain may be, the 2004 election proves people will often chose incompetence over real promise for change. While I don't think John Kerry was the best choice for president, damn, he woulda been better than another four year Bush term.

Critics are out to get Obama by any means necessary. Fuddrucker folks, fuddrucker. Let the new blood make an effort. He can't do any worse than 8 years of the Bush Administration. Sure Obama may not be adept on foreign policies, but isn't that why he chose a running mate like Biden? Someone who knows his stuff; a running mate who brings to the table not only experience, but knowledge. Listening to how Biden has not missed a day of teaching ever, takes the Amtrak to work every day, owns one home, he seems more in touch with the common man than other political offerings. Perhaps this was the best solution. Now my only hope is Barack might coax Condi over from the Dark Side of the Force. There's still hope.

"Good, in her, I sense. Still time, there is for her." Condoleeza Rice obviously is hyped about Barack being the first real potential African American Presidential hopeful. Her interviews have shown her pride. IF Colin Powell can bail on the Bushes, if Joe Lieberman can go turncoat on the Democratic Party, why not "Kinda-sleazy?" While she has much ground to make up for kowtowing to the Bush Administration, her service to an Obama Administration would be further respected and admirable.

So how about it Dr. Rice???

We're Still Waiting....

CNN keeps saying any moment now....yeah, right!

C'mon Barry! C'mon....

I don't know about the rest of you Obama supporters out there, but I've been watching my cell all day for that text to come in, waiting for the news of Barack's Veep selection.

Why I'm so obsessed, I don't know. Given my choice, perhaps Barack selected Evan Bayh or Joe Biden. I didn't care for the others on his short list. Watching CNN and MSNBC over recent days, commentators gave explanation how other candidates are virtually eliminated from contention based on statements Obama released once he confirmed he had chosen a running mate.

Hmm. So when are we gonna know already!?!?

I'm not a patient person. If we have to wait until Barack's rally tomorrow in Illinois, I think I shall go mad! Please, Barack, don't make us wait until the beginning of the DNC on Monday!

Kid Cali in Tejas Kountry

Geez man. It's harder than Hell to keep up with some of your favorite ball players once they move out west. Hadn't heard anything on Wolfy in a while so I went to check out the San Diego MLB site and he wasn't. Was well aware Randy got sent from the Dodgers to the Padres at the beginning of the 2008 season. I'd assumed he'd still be throwing for the club. Wrong!

After some Google searching, I found my favorite Southpaw is pitching for the Houston Astros.

The Astros? Yup, the Astros. Now I've never been to Texas, but I can't imagine a California boy living in landlocked Texas. Not knocking Texas, I'm sure it's a fine state, but I know how different the Keystone State is for folks from the Californian Republic.

Houston, huh? Maybe after this season, Wolfy will be finished with his wanderlust and come on back to Philly. I'm sure they'd have him back.

Hope Wolfy's 32nd birthday was well spent!

On Your Ps and Qs

Hey people! What you know good?

I'm up at this ungodly hour because I have a busy Friday scheduled and not enough hours to complete all my tasks, errands, and whatnot.

Sorry for the lack of posts lately, but to be honest I didn't have anything worthy of posting. I know I promised Corey to give details of my latest man drama with Napoleon, but you know, I've reached the point where I bless what was, send him on his way, and pray I can continue on my proper path.

Forgiveness is more about the forgiver than the forgiven, ya know?

Most of my days lately have been trying to keep my health up and prep myself for the next round in my healing process. New treatments start next month, which means a new round of PT, MRIs, blood work, and a menagerie of other tests. Oh boy.

At least I can report to you both the nurse and med tech helping with the next bout are deliciously handsome. One guy (let's call him Gemini for future reference) has a cocoa butter brown complexion with the dreamiest brown eyes (the tech specialist) and the other (We'll call him Maxwell) has a dark mahogany skin tone with dreads (my weakness)! To boot, Maxwell has a slight accent I can't quite place my finger on. It's not Caribbean or African. I really don't care! Both are really what the doctor ordered, LOL.

Yeah, I'm being a slut-puppy. At least I've motivation to get over to my appointments. While I joke about this next go-round, the treatment is going to be intense and radical. I'll be going 3-4 times a week with the average appointment lasting three hours. Ya! It's gonna be so much (sarcasm) fun! But I praise God, because at least I'm here. The alternative could be so much worse! So if I'm looking forward to going to the hospital if for nothing else to get my sleaze-on, at least I'm getting healthy while I'm at it! Hahaha!

The next stage in the healing game may kick my ass and I'd be remiss to say I'm not a little frightened. I'm terrified actually. While I don't go into the specifics of my health condition on the blog, a few of you know what's going on. If you think of it, I'd ask for the prayers and support. If all goes well, one surgery my docs thought necessary may be determined unnecessary. IF this next treatment goes well. I'm down with that.

Going to church has been a tremendous blessing. Last weekend, Hester and I got our praise-on in God's House then went to dinner at the Manna Cafe afterwards. It's a soul food joint run by a local alumni chapter of Omega Psi Phi. The food is out of this world and would challenge my own cooking. It's food like your grandmother used to make on Sundays and high holidays!

Proceeds the Q's earn go to a worthy cause; reinvestment in the community. The Omega brothers get young boys from the neighborhood as servers and teach 'em skills and put on a path towards positive success. Usually the boys are high school age, but I've been there with a few junior high school age kids. From what I hear, most of the kids end up in college or some kinda post secondary school education. (Terrific work gentlemen!)

Anyway keep me in your thoughts boys. I'm gonna need all the prayer and positive energy I can get...

Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones

An awe inspiring woman.... God bless you for your service and dedication.

Bitch No More

Queen Hester decided to delete her blog, The Bitches Council. She told me she is too wrapped up into her own stuff right now to continue on.

I understand. Going through a divorce can be a bit messy and nasty. While I'm disappointed she just didn't leave it up a while, I realize she's a take action kinda girl, and likes clean breaks instantly. Hmph. I should learn a lesson from that I suppose.

So no more Bitches Council. Hester asked me to post a blurb on the Axe. I think she might have kept on going if readership had been more. Oh well. Rest assured, my blogs will continue. I'm having too much fun with them.

Saturday Till Today...

Bernie Mac. Isaac Hayes. Obama in Hawaii. McCain in the Mid-State. Black Olympian Cullen Jones winning a gold medal...been more than a few events happening the last few days, each deserving their own blog post, but alas, I've been a bit MIA.

I was shocked and dismayed at both of the deaths of Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes. I still can't believe it. I caught part of Larry King Live tonight and watched DL Hughley, Cedric The Entertainer, and Steve Harvey recount their thoughts on Bernie Mac. Yesterday I listened to Tom Joyner's tribute to both men oh his Morning Show program. Wow! I can't believe they're gone. Life is short.

John McCain is in Central PA. Local media latched on to a quote he gave recently citing "It's hard to do the Lord's work in the Devil's city," referring to Washington. I thought to myself, "Gee, that's so kind of you, John McCain." The part of me that still counts Washington, DC as a second home takes offense to that. DC is far from the devil's city but some of his minions certainly are on Capitol Hill, that's for damn sure.

Obama's in Hawaii. Get yo' rest brother, get your rest. You're gonna needed. More and more negative Obama ads have been running during the Olympic broadcasting lately and some of the misguided actually are falling for it. Ugh. Doesn't help matters former governor and Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge has been escorting Senator McOldhead around PA either.

Fox News was criticizing Barack for taking time off from the campaigning. Brother! If the man's tired and wants to rest, let him. Besides, last time I checked, both he and McCain are still Senators. Doesn't Congress take 200th vacation during the month of August?!?! Congress works maybe 2 months of the year! LOL.

The Olympics. I've had my fill of the gymnastics, diving, swimming, and volleyball events. I'm ready for the track and wrestling competitions. Nothing against Michael Phelps, he's my boy and all, but I'm soooo sick of seeing his face er'rywhere! Did Cullen get any coverage on being one of the few Blacks to receive an Olympic medal in swimming? Here, coverage was more of an "oh and by the way" deal. Phtt! I digress from further comment.

Overall for me, life has been a little challenging, but I'm muddling through. I'll save my recent activities for a post tomorrow. Until then, keep the faith....

Oh, And My Thoughts On Manny...

Though I'm a day late and a dollar short, you honestly didn't think I was gonna forget to mention words about Manny Ramirez being shipped to the LA Dodgers, did you?

Fortunately Manny got sent to one of my favorite baseball teams. Yes, LA is still one of my teams, even though it's oh-so-far-away. Not like Boston is exactly close for that matter either.It's about an eight to nine hour drive. I hope Manny is a happy player out there in Angel City. I keep reading about all his homers of late. Damn bruh!

Not sure where I found this video, but I find it amusing as Hell. It's of Manny and his then teammate Julian Tavarez from maybe a season or so ago. I love the commentators' response.

Watch and enjoy.

Coming Soon

A few months ago I did a post on the Top 100 in Hollywood. Oh I haven't forgotten about it. I've been compliling a list and putting it in order. I should have a listed posted by the end of summer.

If you have no idea what I'm talking about, check out the link:
http://weildingtheaxe.blogspot.com/2008/06/35-out-of-100-wheres-rest.html

"One World, One Dream"

Say what you will about the controversy over this year's Olympic Games, but the Chinese pulled off the Opening Ceremonies to the XXIX Olympiad with panache, zest, style, and grace. All I can say is "Wow!"

It was a sheer spectacular display full of pageantry. So far, this has to be the best Opening Ceremonies in my memory. Dramatic elegance, well choreographed, and creatively touching on themes central to the culture and history of China, it did the job! There was symbolism everywhere! With the exception to the goosestepping soldiers, one could almost forget China is Communist. Almost.

Most touching was when the Chinese Athletes strolled into the arena with Yao Ming at the helm. Alongside Yao and company was a survivor from the devastating Earthquake which rocked China back in May, killing over 70,000. Bob Costas and Matt Lauer described the boy's bravery and courage. Well done!

Thankfully, one concern of mine didn't pan out.

I was convinced all evening the United States athletes were gonna get a poor reception entering the stadium (remarkably called the "Bird's Nest" cuz that's sure what it looks like), but I was pleasantly wrong.

US athletes received rousing cheers and applause! Despite people's viewpoints with American involvement in world events, We were accepted as a part of the World family with open arms. I, too, was impressed when the Iraqi delegation received a positive reception. Contrary to the boos and jeering Iran got afterwards, the Iraqi athletes were showered with warmth.

Bush looked bored out of his gourd all evening. With exception to the USA athletes entrance, he sat looking miserable and uncomfortable, occasionally leaning over to whisper something to First Lady Laura. And someone please teach Dubya how to sit more Presidential. Hester pointed out early in the evening Georgie-boy sits with a "wide-eagle" posture, showing everyone his "package." Ick! How undignified! How trite for the Leader of the Free World not to suck it up one night and show a little enthusiasm. Jeez!

My most captivating event of the evening was the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, which my poor words cannot give adequate description. If you missed it, definitely catch it on YouTube. I was blown away. And the fireworks!!!! Again...."WOW!"

No matter your position on the Chinese, their politics, or the Olympic Games, one must admit this was one of their finer moments. A proud achievement for them and the world! Kudos!

Chicago 2016!

I am a self-professed Olympics junkie, I confess it! With the exception to the 1980 Moscow Games, I've consistently watched each Summer Olympic Games since 1976 and plan on watching part of the Beijing Games, despite the controversy.

The Olympics' heyday may've passed, given all the scandals involving doping and such, but I have to admit I find myself always enamored with the Summer Olympics!

My goal is to make it to the 2012 Games, Lord willing. Doubtful the Olympics will hit the States in time soon again, but I'm praying Chicago gets the 2016 Games. I'd settle for Rio though. Two reasons.

First, the Olympics have never been held in an African or South American country (Mexico's 1968 venue doesn't count because it's still North America despite certain attempts to divorce it from our continent. Shame on you if you think otherwise!) Second, I'd give me an excuse to visit my buddy who recently moved back home to his native Brazil.

New York, Philadelphia, or Washington, DC definitely should put a bid in for the 2020 Games if Chicago loses out for 2016. The IOC makes their decision next year. Maybe if Obama wins the Presidency, Chicago might stand a decent chance.

Beijing 2008

"There's an old Vulcan proverb...Only Nixon could go to China."
-Leonard Nimoy as Ambassador Spock
Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

For weeks now, there's been much scuttlebutt about President Bush attending the Opening Ceremonies at the Beijing Olympics. It's been a controversial issue with many people reasoning against him going because of China's track record with human rights violations. The issue seems rather moot since the Games are tomorrow evening and Bush has been in China a few days now.

I question why the International Olympic Committee chose Beijing for the 2008 Olympic venue. Given China's policies, it seems to be the antithesis of what the Olympic Games represent. Surprisingly, I support Bush's decision to attend the Games. I can't explain it, I just think it was the right thing to do. If he (Georgie-Porgie) is sincere about making inroads with the Chinese Government, perhaps it'll do some good and have a positive effect. Then again, Bush's diplomatic policies have been suspect themselves, his entire term in Office.

What's your position? Whether you watch the Olympics or not, do you think it was wrong for Bush to attend the games? Should the US have protested and boycotted the Beijing Games like we did the Moscow Games in 1980? Does the Olympics hold any real weight to true world issues anymore, if it ever did?

Thank God for 8/4/61!

Feels Great Sunday Morning

Between 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Sunday has always been a sacred time for me. Whether in church or not, its my favorite time of the week. After 12 o'clock, the serenity breaks, and the real world comes crashing through.

This morning, I was supposed to go to church, but being so amped from events going on around me, I chose to skip out. Yeah, shoulda went, I know. I need to get my spiritual groove-on back in motion. It's all but depleted of late.

July was a crash course in "don't underestimate how quickly life can change from good to no-so-good in a heartbeat!" Been pissed off, overcome with hurt, sad, feelin' betrayed, lonely, but mostly exhausted. Too much negativity! Church helped, but then I backslid and misses a Sunday here and there....

Despite not going again this morning, I took time to bask in tranquil nature sounds on my deck, sipping iced coffee, smoking a cigarette, and reading the newspaper. Usually, during the week, all you hear is the busy daily grind of traffic, neighborhood kids, or cops. Sunday morning always feels so damn great, like everything is right with the world. So calm, so peaceful.

When I was a child living with my father, Sunday had a special place. The only time when I felt important in his life, significant. We had our ritual. We'd listen to WHUR-FM's Sunday Jazz, read the paper, then prepare for brunch at Mr. Henry's, a quaint tavern/bar/restaurant over in Southeast DC. After that, we'd maybe go over to The Mall or Rock Creek Park, do something silly, then trek over to my grandparents' house for dinner.

Sunday morning has always recharged me. It gives me hope to hang in there before the reality of the week hits! Today was so idyllic, so peaceful sitting on the deck, I relaxed and enjoyed all that could be absorbed. There's a comfortable breeze (it was actually a little chilly) and the sun is out, no overcast like yesterday. My worries are a thing of the past. At least for a little while.

Regrouping

'S up brothers? Sorry for lack of posts lately. I'm going through a tremendous amount of stress and grief now. Things, hopefully will calm down this month. July kicked my ass HARD! I'm coming into August with a positive attitude though, just a little weary and mindful.

Posting on both blogs should resume tomorrow. Tonight I need to let my hair down and hang out with my compatriots in crime. Catch u on da fly tomorrow.

-Ian