“A Change is Gonna Come” ✊🏽

Feb24

“It’s been a long, a long time comin’ but I know, change gonna come. Oh yes, it will.”

Classic music touches and can define and transcend a particular point in time. 1964 classic – “A Change is Gonna Come” by R&B legend Sam Cooke has long represented the Civil Rights Movement and can be seen as an inspiration for today’s movement of Resistance.

Image result for resist

Being deeply moved by the growing chorus of voices across the country speaking out against repealing the ACA, the Muslim ban, and a myriad of serious issues affecting their lives, this lyric kept repeating in my head – “change gonna come.”

In my search for the original song by Sam Cooke, I came across this particular video statement which felt so right for these troubling times. Let me know what you think.

“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a song by American recording artist Sam Cooke, released on December 22, 1964, by RCA Victor. Produced by Hugo & Luigi and arranged and conducted by René Hall, the song was the B-side to “Shake“. The song concerns African-Americans and contains the refrain, “It’s been a long time coming, but I know a change is gonna come.” (Wikipedia)

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Samuel (Sam Cooke) Cook

(January 22, 1931 – December 11, 1964)

The song was inspired by various personal events in Cooke’s life, most prominently an event in which he and his entourage were turned away from a whites-only motel in Louisiana. Cooke felt compelled to write a song that spoke to his struggle and of those around him, and he recorded the song for its first release on his final album, Ain’t That Good News.

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Though only a modest hit for Cooke in comparison with his previous singles, “A Change Is Gonna Come” became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. The song is widely considered Cooke’s best composition and has been voted among the best songs ever released by various publications. In 2007, the song was selected for preservation in the Library of Congress, with the National Recording Registry deeming the song “culturally, historically, or aesthetically important.” (Wikipedia)

Image result for a change is gonna come sam cooke

At this pivotal point in our Democracy, I’m drawing inspiration and determination from the lyrics penned by Cooke over 50 years ago:

✊🏽

There been times that I thought I couldn’t last for long
But now I think I’m able to carry on

It’s been a long, a long time coming
But I know a change gon’ come, oh yes it will

Tenacity of Hope!✌🏼

Feb19

Image result for positive quotes

The lives of millions of Americans have been shaken since election day. With eyes pried open, we have been forced to confront a 2017 reality we never imagined. In my life, it’s been a renewal of activism. My energy and spirit have been revived, in these dangerous days, since joining a growing resistance to fight hatred and bigotry by promoting a worldview of love.

Image result for positive quotes

Penning this blog has been a revelation of change and the process of growing stronger through it. My original goal was to share my life journey with friends and family afar to keep them updated on the day to day of my cancer treatment.

Image result for positive quotes

I’m still sharing my story but to an even wider audience now; speaking at rallies and in a soon to be published article in my local paper on the impact of the Affordable Care Act making possible the affordability of my cancer treatments. Without the ACA I might not be alive today.

When we reach out to one another with empathy and truth, we grow. Everyone benefits from a world of inclusion, not exclusion and with each life we touch we spread positive energy and an attitude of hope.

Image result for together we rise quotes

It’s truly a blessing to be able to author this blog and interact with this beautifully diverse world. My spirit is renewed each day with the rising promise and tenacity of Hope.

Image result for hope quotes

Don’t Lose the Gratitude 🙏

Feb14

My morning and evening praise is part of living my life deliberately and holding gratitude in my heart. I’ve come this far by faith and I have no intention of letting that go.

Every time I think about my blessings I well up inside. I can’t help giving my testimony and sharing my joy.

Each of us is a miracle and it’s so important to grasp that concept and move through life bearing that knowledge and living for love and peace.

I’ve adopted a personal mantra to refocus on trying days and situations, “Don’t Let the Bad Behavior of Others Destroy Your Inner Peace.”

Each day let us live our truths in peace and harmony. ✌💗

We’re A Winner! ✊🏽✌🏼🎶

Feb6

Image result for if you don't go after what you want quote

Fortitude, Determination, Perseverance

When the life goals you set feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember these 3 words of encouragement – Fortitude, Determination, and Perseverance. But in these stressful times, it’s just as important to make sure you take care of yourself.

Taking a spa day, watching a favorite movie or settling in with a memorable book; whatever takes you outside of your head. One of the ways I’m taking care of myself during my #Resistance Protest is to recharge by listening to motivating, “We can do this” music.

Curtis Lee Mayfield (June 3, 1942 – December 26, 1999) was an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, record producer, and one of the most influential musicians behind soul and politically conscious African-American music. His groovin’ and movin’ music became the soundtrack of my young life including 1970 soul classic “We’re a Winner” which felt like the perfect choice for my take a break re-charge time.

“We’re a winner and never let anybody say
Boy, you can’t make it ’cause a feeble mind is in your way
No more tears do we cry
And we have finally dried our eyes

And we’re movin’ on up”

We’re a winner and never let anybody say
Boy, you can’t make it ’cause a feeble mind is in your way
No more tears do we cry
And we have finally dried our eyes

And we’re movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)
Lord have mercy, we’re movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)

We’re living proof in all’s alert
That we’re too from the good black earth
And we’re a winner
And everybody knows it too

We’ll just keep on pushin’
Like your leaders tell you to
At last that blessed day has come
And I don’t care where you come from

We’re all movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)
Lord have mercy, we’re movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)

Hey, hey, we’re movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)
Lord have mercy, we’re movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)

I don’t mind leavin’ here
To show the world we have no fear
‘Cause we’re a winner
And everybody knows it too

We’ll just keep on pushin’
Like your leaders tell you to
At last that blessed day has come
And I don’t care where you come from

We’re just go move on up
(Movin’ on up)
Lord have mercy, we’re movin’ on up
(Movin’ on up)

We’ll just keep on pushin’
We’re a winner
Lord, baby, everybody
Hey, you know we’re movin’ on up
We’re a winner
Yeah, yeah just keep on pushin’

Songwriter
Mayfield, Curtis L

Happiness Jar Blessings!

Feb1

I saw this poster the other day and loved its concept and message of recognizing a blessing a day. We can tend to forget the good things in our lives with the news serving up what seems like an endless stream of bad after horrible after worse stories on a loop. But within the madness let’s not forget to stop and “smell the roses.”

Time as we mark it is merely minute by minute. The past is over the future is yet to be but right now, this moment is the only thing that’s real.

I love this idea of The Happiness Jar because we get to pause and say thank you, Lord, for this wonderful gift of life. And, at the end of the year remind ourselves that things aren’t really that bad after all.

Image result for every day may not be good but there is something good in every day

Together We Rise ✊🏽 Women March!

Jan26

Healthcare Rights

Women’s Rights

Voting Rights

LGBTQ Rights

Human Rights

I’m still fired up by the response and energy the world displayed on Saturday as women rose up around the world to say: “We’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take this anymore!”

Democracy in action full force.

I felt so proud and excited participating in this powerful exercise of civic duty in action; pushing back against an administration built on lies, hate, racism, misogyny, and Islamaphobia.

This election has shown the American people how important it is to engage in the process and “take it to the streets” in a show of solidarity that we the people have the power to affect change not only in the US but around the world!

The positive energy and determination to continue this organizing renewed my belief in 21st-century change. The outpouring of voices and sheer numbers of those who marched was incredible!

Image result for together we rise

The Women’s March was not just a one-day affair, groups are forming all around the country and we have a strategy moving forward.

#ResistTrumpTuesdays

Our first event this Tuesday was protesting against the “Swamp Cabinet” of nominees in front of the office of Senator Thom Tillis who represents my state of North Carolina.

In a 24-hour time period, we were able to mobilize over 100 protesters in a show of unity. I had the privilege to speak and make my voice heard and I’m even more fired up than ever before.

original_url: CF1B2C2E-C37D-4BE9-8A1C-5A570905BC06

I’ve already connected with progressive groups MoveOn, Indivisible and Organizing for America. Like I said, this is not a fluke and the fight for justice is just beginning. We will keep pushing this momentum!

Let’s keep this energy going and continue to work toward moving this country forward and completing the work that reflects the true desires of the American people.

Serenity of Sound 🎶

Jan20

An awesome friend shared this serene, jazzy, cool and funky piece of music to serve as a respite from the day to day crazy. I told him this will be my go-to number when the world pushes me to scream.

I hope we are all taking moments to breathe, meditate, and count our blessings. Our spirits are more infinite than this temporary corporal home. In order to do what we need to and stand up and fight for humanity and justice, we need all the energy, love and positive vibes we can muster.

Enjoy!

Celebrating the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.🙏🏽✌🏽

Jan16

“The time is always right to do what is right.”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today, we celebrate the legacy and love of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As I listen to the song “Glory” by John Legend and Common, I weep with the pain of those who’ve sacrificed their lives for the cause of justice and humanity.

One of my favorite quotes from Dr. King is:

I attended a rally yesterday to raise my voice against the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and will continue to speak out whenever I see injustice and refuse to stay silent about the things that matter.

Happy Birthday, Dr. King!

Keep On Pushing!✊🏽

Jan13

Life has a way of slapping us in the face just when we think we’ve got it licked. When those moments arrive, I always look for quotes, videos, songs whatever it takes to inspire and motivate me to thrive, push through the hills and achieve my personal goals.

Image result for perseverance quotes

Livinginthemoment2015 is an excellent venue to share expressions of inspiration and attitude adjustments; hopefully, encouraging self-realization and strength.

Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions released “Keep on Pushing” in 1964 and it quickly became an anthem for the drive, empowerment, and perseverance to have Faith and always keep on pushing.

So when times get tough and you feel like quitting always remember

✌🏽

Yes We Did! ✌🏽🇺🇸

Jan11

Barack Hussein Obama

44th President of the United States of America

Thank You!

“We’ve made America a better, stronger place for the generations that will follow. We’ve run our leg in a long relay of progress, knowing that our work will always be unfinished. And we’ve reaffirmed the belief that we can make a difference with our own hands, in our own time. That’s the imperative of citizenship — the idea that, with hard work, and a generous heart toward our fellow Americans, people who love their country can change it.

I’m filled with so many emotions after President Obama’s Farewell Address last evening; ranging from wonderful personal memories, anguish, anger, and Pride. This morning, I’m also filled with a renewed sense of commitment and hope.

My Memories

Inaugural Invitation

Affordable Care Act

These past 8 years have been living proof that we can be a more progressive, inclusive, loving America. The President brought out the best and sadly the worse in the American people but also taught us a lesson, one I hope we all learn; for always, “The Struggle Continues”.

First Inauguration

January 20, 2009

President Obama was eloquent, dignified, passionate, and very loved by an audience of 20,000 whose shouts of 4 more years filled the capacity full convention center. Watching on television, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to bid adieu to My President. A man who taught me how to organize, get fired up, and that We the People have the power to affect Change.

January 10, 2017

Make no mistake, we shall not see the likes of a Barack Hussein Obama ever again. Once in a lifetime comes a human spirit who captures the hearts and minds of millions and energized a nation to move forward and be the “Change We Seek”.

A family man and loving husband. (Wow, integrity on Capitol Hill!) He’s the real deal. Those that claim to hate him will live to regret their obstructionism and racism. Those of us who love him are filled with Pride and Admiration for a man who worked so hard, dreamed so big, and accomplished so much!

“It’s been a long, a long time comin’ but I know, change gonna come. Oh yes, it will.”

Classic music touches and can define and transcend a particular point in time. 1964 classic – “A Change is Gonna Come” by R&B legend Sam Cooke has long represented the Civil Rights Movement and can be seen as an inspiration for today’s movement of Resistance.

Being deeply moved by the growing chorus of voices across the country speaking out against repealing the ACA, the Muslim ban, and a myriad of serious issues affecting their lives, this lyric kept repeating in my head – “change gonna come.”

In my search for the original song by Sam Cooke, I came across this particular video statement which felt so right for these troubling times. Let me know what you think.

(January 22, 1931 – December 11, 1964)

At this pivotal point in our Democracy, I’m drawing inspiration and determination from the lyrics penned by Cooke over 50 years ago:

✊🏽

There been times that I thought I couldn’t last for long But now I think I’m able to carry on

It’s been a long, a long time coming But I know a change gon’ come, oh yes it will

Share this:

Penning this blog has been a revelation of change and the process of growing stronger through it. My original goal was to share my life journey with friends and family afar to keep them updated on the day to day of my cancer treatment.

I’m still sharing my story but to an even wider audience now; speaking at rallies and in a soon to be published article in my local paper on the impact of the Affordable Care Act making possible the affordability of my cancer treatments. Without the ACA I might not be alive today.

When we reach out to one another with empathy and truth, we grow. Everyone benefits from a world of inclusion, not exclusion and with each life we touch we spread positive energy and an attitude of hope.

It’s truly a blessing to be able to author this blog and interact with this beautifully diverse world. My spirit is renewed each day with the rising promise and tenacity of Hope.

Share this:

My morning and evening praise is part of living my life deliberately and holding gratitude in my heart. I’ve come this far by faith and I have no intention of letting that go.

Every time I think about my blessings I well up inside. I can’t help giving my testimony and sharing my joy.

Each of us is a miracle and it’s so important to grasp that concept and move through life bearing that knowledge and living for love and peace.

I’ve adopted a personal mantra to refocus on trying days and situations, “Don’t Let the Bad Behavior of Others Destroy Your Inner Peace.”

Each day let us live our truths in peace and harmony. ✌💗

Share this:

Fortitude, Determination, Perseverance

When the life goals you set feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember these 3 words of encouragement – Fortitude, Determination, and Perseverance. But in these stressful times, it’s just as important to make sure you take care of yourself.

Taking a spa day, watching a favorite movie or settling in with a memorable book; whatever takes you outside of your head. One of the ways I’m taking care of myself during my #Resistance Protest is to recharge by listening to motivating, “We can do this” music.

“We’re a winner and never let anybody say Boy, you can’t make it ’cause a feeble mind is in your way No more tears do we cry And we have finally dried our eyes

And we’re movin’ on up”

Share this:

Time as we mark it is merely minute by minute. The past is over the future is yet to be but right now, this moment is the only thing that’s real.

I love this idea of The Happiness Jar because we get to pause and say thank you, Lord, for this wonderful gift of life. And, at the end of the year remind ourselves that things aren’t really that bad after all.

Share this:

Healthcare Rights

Women’s Rights

Voting Rights

LGBTQ Rights

Human Rights

I’m still fired up by the response and energy the world displayed on Saturday as women rose up around the world to say: “We’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take this anymore!”

Democracy in action full force.

I felt so proud and excited participating in this powerful exercise of civic duty in action; pushing back against an administration built on lies, hate, racism, misogyny, and Islamaphobia.

This election has shown the American people how important it is to engage in the process and “take it to the streets” in a show of solidarity that we the people have the power to affect change not only in the US but around the world!

The positive energy and determination to continue this organizing renewed my belief in 21st-century change. The outpouring of voices and sheer numbers of those who marched was incredible!

The Women’s March was not just a one-day affair, groups are forming all around the country and we have a strategy moving forward.

#ResistTrumpTuesdays

Our first event this Tuesday was protesting against the “Swamp Cabinet” of nominees in front of the office of Senator Thom Tillis who represents my state of North Carolina.

In a 24-hour time period, we were able to mobilize over 100 protesters in a show of unity. I had the privilege to speak and make my voice heard and I’m even more fired up than ever before.

I’ve already connected with progressive groups MoveOn, Indivisible and Organizing for America. Like I said, this is not a fluke and the fight for justice is just beginning. We will keep pushing this momentum!

Let’s keep this energy going and continue to work toward moving this country forward and completing the work that reflects the true desires of the American people.

Share this:

An awesome friend shared this serene, jazzy, cool and funky piece of music to serve as a respite from the day to day crazy. I told him this will be my go-to number when the world pushes me to scream.

I hope we are all taking moments to breathe, meditate, and count our blessings. Our spirits are more infinite than this temporary corporal home. In order to do what we need to and stand up and fight for humanity and justice, we need all the energy, love and positive vibes we can muster.

Enjoy!

Share this:

“The time is always right to do what is right.”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today, we celebrate the legacy and love of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As I listen to the song “Glory” by John Legend and Common, I weep with the pain of those who’ve sacrificed their lives for the cause of justice and humanity.

One of my favorite quotes from Dr. King is:

I attended a rally yesterday to raise my voice against the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and will continue to speak out whenever I see injustice and refuse to stay silent about the things that matter.

Happy Birthday, Dr. King!

Share this:

Life has a way of slapping us in the face just when we think we’ve got it licked. When those moments arrive, I always look for quotes, videos, songs whatever it takes to inspire and motivate me to thrive, push through the hills and achieve my personal goals.

Livinginthemoment2015 is an excellent venue to share expressions of inspiration and attitude adjustments; hopefully, encouraging self-realization and strength.

Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions released “Keep on Pushing” in 1964 and it quickly became an anthem for the drive, empowerment, and perseverance to have Faith and always keep on pushing.

So when times get tough and you feel like quitting always remember

✌🏽

Share this:

44th President of the United States of America

Thank You!

I’m filled with so many emotions after President Obama’s Farewell Address last evening; ranging from wonderful personal memories, anguish, anger, and Pride. This morning, I’m also filled with a renewed sense of commitment and hope.

My Memories

These past 8 years have been living proof that we can be a more progressive, inclusive, loving America. The President brought out the best and sadly the worse in the American people but also taught us a lesson, one I hope we all learn; for always, “The Struggle Continues”.

First Inauguration

January 20, 2009

January 10, 2017

Make no mistake, we shall not see the likes of a Barack Hussein Obama ever again. Once in a lifetime comes a human spirit who captures the hearts and minds of millions and energized a nation to move forward and be the “Change We Seek”.

I will not say farewell to 44 but instead, welcome to Part 2 of our goals to perfect a more perfect union.

Let’s keep organizing and proving once again, Yes We Can!

Share this:

There been times that I thought I couldn’t last for long
But now I think I’m able to carry on

It’s been a long, a long time coming
But I know a change gon’ come, oh yes it will

“We’re a winner and never let anybody say
Boy, you can’t make it ’cause a feeble mind is in your way
No more tears do we cry
And we have finally dried our eyes