I’m Your Girl
Though right now you can’t buy me diamonds and pearls
take me on trips around the world
I’m still proud to say
I’m your girl
It’s a blessing to have you as a part of my life
and I blush at the thought of becoming your wife
You’re just that special to me
and I pray you really really see
the joy you bring to my heart
the happiness I feel just having you a part
of my dreams
Even during those times when it seems
we should go our separate way
we somehow manage to stay together
and work through the stormy weather
God is good
so as we should
I give thanks to Him for you
and all the special things you do for me
Diamonds and pearls
trips around the world
are not things this girl needs!
No indeed
Not unless we can have them together
cause I plan on loving you forever
I’m so proud to have you in my world
but even prouder to say
I’m your girl
Copyright Andrea Marina Thomas
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Letting Go
Oh look at you! You are so beautiful! My have I missed you! Let's make an earnest effort to stay close.
I am finding myself having to let go of a lot of things in this new year. Purge. Interesting that what appears on the outside happens inside first. Since this is true, there is no wonder that my digestive system began the purging first. Or should I say my subconscious began the process in the form of a dream. Yes it's true. Before the actual act of purging happened, I had a very vivid dream of said act. Toilet overflowing and all! No, I am not trying to make you sick, but just trying to drive home the point that we create from the inside out. All that appears in our outer world is only a reflection of our thoughts.
As a result, I am finding that the things I am purging no longer serve me. Thoughts of lack, struggle, procrastination, fear, limitations, etc are all being left behind. They do not leaving willingly, let's be clear, however, what they are finding is that there is no longer room in my spirit for them. I have cleaned house. So there is no longer room for the above concepts to reside. I can feel clarity, faith, self-confidence, trust and focus move in. God knows I have put in the work. I have prayed, read, meditated and listened for the renewing of my mind. And it has been renewed. I am grateful.
So the final thing I had to purge was a false sense of security. Trust in my job, man, circumstances and conditions that had no foundation. God has brought me to a place where I totally lean on Him/Her. I must admit, this place is not for the faint of heart. It is for those who do not need to live by sight, nor who can easily be shaken. Just a few years ago, had I found myself here, I would have run back to the familiar. But this time. This time, I will hide myself under the wings of God. I will lean into god until we are one. I will close my eyes, put my hand in God's and walk confidently, faithfully, willingly, and joyfully down the path He/She leads me. this time, I will trust...unequivocally.
Until next time, take care of yourself and one another.
Peace, Love & Blessings,
Marina
I am finding myself having to let go of a lot of things in this new year. Purge. Interesting that what appears on the outside happens inside first. Since this is true, there is no wonder that my digestive system began the purging first. Or should I say my subconscious began the process in the form of a dream. Yes it's true. Before the actual act of purging happened, I had a very vivid dream of said act. Toilet overflowing and all! No, I am not trying to make you sick, but just trying to drive home the point that we create from the inside out. All that appears in our outer world is only a reflection of our thoughts.
As a result, I am finding that the things I am purging no longer serve me. Thoughts of lack, struggle, procrastination, fear, limitations, etc are all being left behind. They do not leaving willingly, let's be clear, however, what they are finding is that there is no longer room in my spirit for them. I have cleaned house. So there is no longer room for the above concepts to reside. I can feel clarity, faith, self-confidence, trust and focus move in. God knows I have put in the work. I have prayed, read, meditated and listened for the renewing of my mind. And it has been renewed. I am grateful.
So the final thing I had to purge was a false sense of security. Trust in my job, man, circumstances and conditions that had no foundation. God has brought me to a place where I totally lean on Him/Her. I must admit, this place is not for the faint of heart. It is for those who do not need to live by sight, nor who can easily be shaken. Just a few years ago, had I found myself here, I would have run back to the familiar. But this time. This time, I will hide myself under the wings of God. I will lean into god until we are one. I will close my eyes, put my hand in God's and walk confidently, faithfully, willingly, and joyfully down the path He/She leads me. this time, I will trust...unequivocally.
Until next time, take care of yourself and one another.
Peace, Love & Blessings,
Marina
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Are There Words to Describe What I Am Feeling?
Peace and Blessings my lovely ones,
As a wordsmith, imagine what it must be like to be word-less. Imagine, not being able to find the words to express how you feel about a particular person, event, situation, etc. Well that is exactly what has happened to me. I am at a loss for words. Imagine that! A poet, lost for words! I am sure it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out why the cat has my tongue:) If you guessed the inauguration of our first black president, why George, you are right!
I sat spellbound all day yesterday, watching and ingesting each moment, each event, each ceremony. I cried, laughed, smiled, laughed some more, cried some more and smiled a lot. What a day! I can only imagine the gratitude, reconciliation and sense of victory my ancestors and those that were not of African descent who fought for what was right as well, must have felt watching the inauguration of our
44th president-a black man. Amazing!
Although I understand there is no price, event, or words that can substitute for the lives that were lost, the families that were separated, the spirits that were broken and the pain my ancestors endured as a result of slavery, yet I choose to believe that Barack represents healing. I choose to trust that their endurance was not in vain, and that we as a people have begun to embrace the humanity that binds us all.
To thrust the future of humanity upon the shoulders of Barack, is a heavy burden to cast on one man. Barack represents us all. Not just as black or white, man or woman, but as spiritual beings housed in human form. He cannot do what needs to be done by each of us alone - be our brother' keeper. We are all responsible for one another. Let's be about the business of love. It's actually very simple.
Until next time, take good care of yourself and each other.
In love and peace,
Marina
As a wordsmith, imagine what it must be like to be word-less. Imagine, not being able to find the words to express how you feel about a particular person, event, situation, etc. Well that is exactly what has happened to me. I am at a loss for words. Imagine that! A poet, lost for words! I am sure it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out why the cat has my tongue:) If you guessed the inauguration of our first black president, why George, you are right!
I sat spellbound all day yesterday, watching and ingesting each moment, each event, each ceremony. I cried, laughed, smiled, laughed some more, cried some more and smiled a lot. What a day! I can only imagine the gratitude, reconciliation and sense of victory my ancestors and those that were not of African descent who fought for what was right as well, must have felt watching the inauguration of our
44th president-a black man. Amazing!
Although I understand there is no price, event, or words that can substitute for the lives that were lost, the families that were separated, the spirits that were broken and the pain my ancestors endured as a result of slavery, yet I choose to believe that Barack represents healing. I choose to trust that their endurance was not in vain, and that we as a people have begun to embrace the humanity that binds us all.
To thrust the future of humanity upon the shoulders of Barack, is a heavy burden to cast on one man. Barack represents us all. Not just as black or white, man or woman, but as spiritual beings housed in human form. He cannot do what needs to be done by each of us alone - be our brother' keeper. We are all responsible for one another. Let's be about the business of love. It's actually very simple.
Until next time, take good care of yourself and each other.
In love and peace,
Marina
Thursday, January 1, 2009
May God Bless You This Year!
Whooooaaa! We made it! Another year! What a blessing, huh? Man. Can you believe it is 2009? I swear to you, time has crept upon the wings of speed, and there is no looking back. Is it me, or does time seem to have taken a fast track to eternity? I used to hear my elders say, "Girl, don't you be rushing time! They'll come a day when you wish time would slow down!" Well by George, that's why they have all the wisdom. Can you imagine me telling my kids the same thing! Who knew? Guess that makes me an elder, huh? It's all good. I'm not one of those people who minds getting older because I realize if I'm here to celebrate another day, I am blessed, you feel me?
So I have written my New Year Intentions and posted them on my mirror, in my car, on my nightstand, etc. I plan to keep them present as constant reminders of what I choose to out picture. Hope if you have chosen to write New Year Intentions that they all come to fruition for you!
Ready, Set, Go!
Until next time, love somebody until they have love oozing out their pores!
Marina
So I have written my New Year Intentions and posted them on my mirror, in my car, on my nightstand, etc. I plan to keep them present as constant reminders of what I choose to out picture. Hope if you have chosen to write New Year Intentions that they all come to fruition for you!
Ready, Set, Go!
Until next time, love somebody until they have love oozing out their pores!
Marina
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Sharing is a Blessing
The holiday season is upon us and I am feeling the Spirit! My life has been so full of wonderful blessings the past few months, and I am humbly grateful for each one of them.
I had the opportunity to share the stage with two other poets for an event that featured Dr. Cornel West! What an amazing man! He is is humble, intelligent, kind, funny and gracious. I must thank him for the wisdom he imparted, not just to me, but the over 800 people who came out to see him at the Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte. What a night!
Yesterday I was the mystery reader for my daughter's third grade class! What fun! If you haven't had a chance to spend time with young ones, I highly recommend it! They are amazing balls of energy. We had a great time and they even read a book for me.
Today I was blessed to be able to be in the presence of seventeen handsome, funny and intelligent young black boys, my son included. We spent two and a half hours together reading and listening to poetry, learning from each other and just having a good ole time. I have to thank Seldric and the brothers of the Alpha Academy who spend their Saturdays mentoring these wonderful young men for three hours. What a commitment, what a show of love. I thank them for allowing me to deposit my passion into their spirits. I thank the boys to for welcoming me and showing me love.
My life is full and I am so grateful. What a blessing to be present.
Until next time, take care of yourself and one another,
Marina
I had the opportunity to share the stage with two other poets for an event that featured Dr. Cornel West! What an amazing man! He is is humble, intelligent, kind, funny and gracious. I must thank him for the wisdom he imparted, not just to me, but the over 800 people who came out to see him at the Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte. What a night!
Yesterday I was the mystery reader for my daughter's third grade class! What fun! If you haven't had a chance to spend time with young ones, I highly recommend it! They are amazing balls of energy. We had a great time and they even read a book for me.
Today I was blessed to be able to be in the presence of seventeen handsome, funny and intelligent young black boys, my son included. We spent two and a half hours together reading and listening to poetry, learning from each other and just having a good ole time. I have to thank Seldric and the brothers of the Alpha Academy who spend their Saturdays mentoring these wonderful young men for three hours. What a commitment, what a show of love. I thank them for allowing me to deposit my passion into their spirits. I thank the boys to for welcoming me and showing me love.
My life is full and I am so grateful. What a blessing to be present.
Until next time, take care of yourself and one another,
Marina
Sunday, November 16, 2008
A Kind Gentlemen
I want to share something with you that happened to me today to prove that we are all one. On the surface it may appear no big deal, but in my mind it was God's gentle way of reminding me to hold fast to my dreams.
I was sitting in Panera Bread this morning with my laptop, hashing through what are now the last 100 or so pages of my manuscript while waiting for my son who was volunteering with the Alphas. First of all, let me tell you it was simply a gorgeous morning here in my parts of the woods and I was so grateful for the opportunity to have some quiet time to myself. Anyway, I had been there for almost an hour and a half when this nicely dressed gentleman and his daughter came and sat at the table next to me. When they arrived, it was lunchtime and the restaurant, which earlier only had a few patrons now found itself packed wall to wall with folk.
I was deeply engrossed in the manuscript, proud of myself for staying focused for as long as I had, when from the corner of my eye, I noticed this gentleman staring at me. I looked up and smiled. He asked if I were studying and I told him I was working on a manuscript. He proceeded to ask me how long I had been working on it and I shyly told him about thirteen years. I felt compelled to explain that each time I had stuffed the manuscript in a drawer, the characters would beckon me to come back and get them so that I could tell their stories, so I felt obligated to comply. He laughed and indicated he'd heard other authors say the same thing. He asked me what the story was about and I explained that it was about a man that had come home to find that his wife of ten years had left him. I told him the entire premise of this story is how we really don't listen to one another and how we sometimes hide our true selves from others. He appeared fascinated and then asked me the title of the book. When I told him what it was, (Listening To The Silence), he said it was a great title.
He asked me several more questions and I was happy to answer them, and even thanked him for caring enough to ask. When he and his daughter left, and we said our good-byes, I felt a new found pride in myself. He reminded me of how awesome it was that I was doing what I loved. He also reminded me that we are all one, and that God is ever present, ever encouraging us to have faith in ourselves and our dreams. That gentleman will never know how he touched me and encouraged me and affirmed me, just by showing an interest in what I was doing. I didn't get a chance to thank him, but I will always remember the example he set and apply it in my own life. I will remember to genuinely show an interest in others and listen to what they are saying. How ironic...there I was writing about listening and this gentleman exhibited my point. And who could believe there is no God?
Take care of yourself and one another,
Marina
I was sitting in Panera Bread this morning with my laptop, hashing through what are now the last 100 or so pages of my manuscript while waiting for my son who was volunteering with the Alphas. First of all, let me tell you it was simply a gorgeous morning here in my parts of the woods and I was so grateful for the opportunity to have some quiet time to myself. Anyway, I had been there for almost an hour and a half when this nicely dressed gentleman and his daughter came and sat at the table next to me. When they arrived, it was lunchtime and the restaurant, which earlier only had a few patrons now found itself packed wall to wall with folk.
I was deeply engrossed in the manuscript, proud of myself for staying focused for as long as I had, when from the corner of my eye, I noticed this gentleman staring at me. I looked up and smiled. He asked if I were studying and I told him I was working on a manuscript. He proceeded to ask me how long I had been working on it and I shyly told him about thirteen years. I felt compelled to explain that each time I had stuffed the manuscript in a drawer, the characters would beckon me to come back and get them so that I could tell their stories, so I felt obligated to comply. He laughed and indicated he'd heard other authors say the same thing. He asked me what the story was about and I explained that it was about a man that had come home to find that his wife of ten years had left him. I told him the entire premise of this story is how we really don't listen to one another and how we sometimes hide our true selves from others. He appeared fascinated and then asked me the title of the book. When I told him what it was, (Listening To The Silence), he said it was a great title.
He asked me several more questions and I was happy to answer them, and even thanked him for caring enough to ask. When he and his daughter left, and we said our good-byes, I felt a new found pride in myself. He reminded me of how awesome it was that I was doing what I loved. He also reminded me that we are all one, and that God is ever present, ever encouraging us to have faith in ourselves and our dreams. That gentleman will never know how he touched me and encouraged me and affirmed me, just by showing an interest in what I was doing. I didn't get a chance to thank him, but I will always remember the example he set and apply it in my own life. I will remember to genuinely show an interest in others and listen to what they are saying. How ironic...there I was writing about listening and this gentleman exhibited my point. And who could believe there is no God?
Take care of yourself and one another,
Marina
Friday, November 7, 2008
Dear President Obama,
After reading Alice Walker's letter to President Obama, it inspired me to write my own. I invite you to do the same; it is quite healing. If you are a parent, I recommend you invite your children to write one too. They can put it in a time capsule, nothing extravagent, and revisit it years from now. As for me, I will share mine with you, put it in an envelope and then read it after President Obama's first term has expired.
Dear President Obama,
Where do I begin? There are so many things I want to say to you and as I try to formulate the thoughts that become words, I find them speeding off the highway of my mind so swiftly that I cannot write them fast enough. Therefore, please forgive me if I appear to be all over the place with this letter.
It has been three days since we elected you President and I still cry when I think about it, or when I see anything that reflects you and/or your beautiful family, or when someone walks by me and smiles that giddy smile of elation. By the way, you may not know this, but you and I are both Virgos. Because of this fact, it does not surprise me one bit that you are brilliant and possibly vain:) On the flip side of that, I also imagine that you are your own worse critic, so I lovingly advise you to remember to take care of yourself. Our tendencies as Virgos is to care for others before we care for ourselves. Due to the demands you will face, you are in no position to make that mistake. Of course I am sure Michelle will play an instrumental role in ensuring you center yourself, as I imagine she has since you were brilliant enough to ask her to be your partner in this amazing thing called life.
Speaking of Michelle! I have a woman crush on your wife! She is amazing! She reminds me of so many other black women who are, and have been the rock, backbones and anchor of their families, communities and the world, even. I am going to say this and I will probably catch a lot of flack for saying it, but I've never mind that one bit! I have made it a habit to speak from my heart, and my intent is never to harm. Besides, those that know me, know my heart. That being said,it is significant to me that your wife is an African-American woman. I realize that you are so far evolved when it comes to this that you honestly did not see her color when you fell in love with her, but you have no idea of the implication I feel this has for so many black women. Most folk won't talk openly about it, but you best believe the conversation is being had!
We as black women have carried a heavy burden which I am sure you are aware of, Sir. The irony of it all where you are concerned is that your mother, a white woman, bore you, and here you are a symbol of hope for all people. That is simply beautiful, and I honor here for that. No if ands or buts. As well I honor your father with the same conditions. Nevertheless, for me as a black woman, and I want to be careful to speak for myself, because I dare not wish another to speak on my behalf when I disagree, I have yet to find a way to reconcile the memories of the past that haunt me in the present. Memories my ancestors demand I hold fast too, not as a weapon of bitterness but as a testament of pride. I do not wish to allow memories to enslave me, I only keep them alive to honor my ancestors and to remind myself of the fortitude I possess as an African-American woman. God knows we are amazing beings!
I guess what I am trying to say President Obama, is that in my mind, race still matters. Regardless of how we as a country camouflage, mask, sugarcoat, fairytale around it, it matters. And it is my belief that it will continue to matter with such vehement presence until we authentically address it...pain, shame and all. So back to Michelle. It is important to me that my children see positive images of me in others. Of course I must lead that parade, but it is important to me that I look back at my reflection and see other positive images. That is who Michelle is to me, she is a reflection of me as a black woman. She is a reminder that we as African-Americans can have united, strong, committed families. That we are the American story too. That there is nothing wrong with two people loving each other regardless of what color they come in, and if that love reflects itself in two shades of brown, then it too is beautiful. For so long we as a people have been led to believe that our love was flawed. I imagine it began with the atrocities of slavery. But you and Michelle, and so many others who have decided to raise our children in loving households remind us that we are whole, perfect and complete, even with out short-comings. I guess this is so personal for me, Mr. President because I have yet to master that formula for myself.
So why I don't expect you to solve all of our problems whether overnight or at all, I do have high expectations for you when it comes to the authenticity needed in racial dialogue. I think that it is the underlying hope within a lot of people regardless of color. That you will come to the table and talk to us openly, freely and candidly about things that pain us to discuss, but nevertheless, we trust you, based on what we've experienced of you, to begin that conversation for the sake of all sides, in a way that the truth, crushed to the ground rises.
Lastly, I am indebted to you for the sacrifice you have undertaken. The sacrifice to yourself, your wife and to your beautiful daughters that you have been blessed to parent. I am honored you thought enough of me and countless others to serve this country and ultimately the world in a way that births a new freedom. Thank you so much. I commit to you that I will do all that I can to be the best me. I will let my light shine so that it connects with the light in others and reminds them of the magnificence of who they are. After all, that is what you have done for me.
I am knowing nothing less than peace, love, happiness, protection, health, accomplishment and joy for you.
God bless you President Obama.
In Love, Peace & Blessings,
Marina
Dear President Obama,
Where do I begin? There are so many things I want to say to you and as I try to formulate the thoughts that become words, I find them speeding off the highway of my mind so swiftly that I cannot write them fast enough. Therefore, please forgive me if I appear to be all over the place with this letter.
It has been three days since we elected you President and I still cry when I think about it, or when I see anything that reflects you and/or your beautiful family, or when someone walks by me and smiles that giddy smile of elation. By the way, you may not know this, but you and I are both Virgos. Because of this fact, it does not surprise me one bit that you are brilliant and possibly vain:) On the flip side of that, I also imagine that you are your own worse critic, so I lovingly advise you to remember to take care of yourself. Our tendencies as Virgos is to care for others before we care for ourselves. Due to the demands you will face, you are in no position to make that mistake. Of course I am sure Michelle will play an instrumental role in ensuring you center yourself, as I imagine she has since you were brilliant enough to ask her to be your partner in this amazing thing called life.
Speaking of Michelle! I have a woman crush on your wife! She is amazing! She reminds me of so many other black women who are, and have been the rock, backbones and anchor of their families, communities and the world, even. I am going to say this and I will probably catch a lot of flack for saying it, but I've never mind that one bit! I have made it a habit to speak from my heart, and my intent is never to harm. Besides, those that know me, know my heart. That being said,it is significant to me that your wife is an African-American woman. I realize that you are so far evolved when it comes to this that you honestly did not see her color when you fell in love with her, but you have no idea of the implication I feel this has for so many black women. Most folk won't talk openly about it, but you best believe the conversation is being had!
We as black women have carried a heavy burden which I am sure you are aware of, Sir. The irony of it all where you are concerned is that your mother, a white woman, bore you, and here you are a symbol of hope for all people. That is simply beautiful, and I honor here for that. No if ands or buts. As well I honor your father with the same conditions. Nevertheless, for me as a black woman, and I want to be careful to speak for myself, because I dare not wish another to speak on my behalf when I disagree, I have yet to find a way to reconcile the memories of the past that haunt me in the present. Memories my ancestors demand I hold fast too, not as a weapon of bitterness but as a testament of pride. I do not wish to allow memories to enslave me, I only keep them alive to honor my ancestors and to remind myself of the fortitude I possess as an African-American woman. God knows we are amazing beings!
I guess what I am trying to say President Obama, is that in my mind, race still matters. Regardless of how we as a country camouflage, mask, sugarcoat, fairytale around it, it matters. And it is my belief that it will continue to matter with such vehement presence until we authentically address it...pain, shame and all. So back to Michelle. It is important to me that my children see positive images of me in others. Of course I must lead that parade, but it is important to me that I look back at my reflection and see other positive images. That is who Michelle is to me, she is a reflection of me as a black woman. She is a reminder that we as African-Americans can have united, strong, committed families. That we are the American story too. That there is nothing wrong with two people loving each other regardless of what color they come in, and if that love reflects itself in two shades of brown, then it too is beautiful. For so long we as a people have been led to believe that our love was flawed. I imagine it began with the atrocities of slavery. But you and Michelle, and so many others who have decided to raise our children in loving households remind us that we are whole, perfect and complete, even with out short-comings. I guess this is so personal for me, Mr. President because I have yet to master that formula for myself.
So why I don't expect you to solve all of our problems whether overnight or at all, I do have high expectations for you when it comes to the authenticity needed in racial dialogue. I think that it is the underlying hope within a lot of people regardless of color. That you will come to the table and talk to us openly, freely and candidly about things that pain us to discuss, but nevertheless, we trust you, based on what we've experienced of you, to begin that conversation for the sake of all sides, in a way that the truth, crushed to the ground rises.
Lastly, I am indebted to you for the sacrifice you have undertaken. The sacrifice to yourself, your wife and to your beautiful daughters that you have been blessed to parent. I am honored you thought enough of me and countless others to serve this country and ultimately the world in a way that births a new freedom. Thank you so much. I commit to you that I will do all that I can to be the best me. I will let my light shine so that it connects with the light in others and reminds them of the magnificence of who they are. After all, that is what you have done for me.
I am knowing nothing less than peace, love, happiness, protection, health, accomplishment and joy for you.
God bless you President Obama.
In Love, Peace & Blessings,
Marina
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Obama...
It is 1:30am, the day after the election, and I am trying to absorb the fact that we as a country have elected the first black president. I can't imagine that the magnitude of what this moment means to me has quite penetrated my soul yet. I have cried, laughed, cried and then laughed again, all representative of the realm of my emotions. I think about my ancestors and try to imagine what this moment means for them. The vindication, healing and faith it must represent. I don't think I can fathom it, but I honor their sacrifice with this victory.
My son had gone to bed, but was not quite asleep yet. When he heard my scream announcing Obama's win, he ran into my room to see the results for himself. He immediately ran downstairs to grab two wine glasses and the sparkling cider so that we could toast. I'm not sure if he was excited about the moment or the opportunity to drink sparkling cider from a wine glass, but whatever the case, how significant to be celebrating this moment with him. This is the kid that almost took me out of here during his birth. Now, here I am, celebrating the election of the first black president with him. Yes Jumaane, you too can be president. I could tell it was uncomfortable for him to see me crying, but at the same time I sensed his happiness and I think I felt him contemplate what this truly represented on a larger scale.
I imagine if God allows me to wake in the morning, I and the world won't be the same. Something has shifted in the Universe and I think it is a monumental step in the right direction for mankind. Thank you Obama for dreaming big, America for supporting the dream, and the world for embracing the possibility that we could all live in peace.
Take care of yourself and one another,
Flabbergasted,
Marine
My son had gone to bed, but was not quite asleep yet. When he heard my scream announcing Obama's win, he ran into my room to see the results for himself. He immediately ran downstairs to grab two wine glasses and the sparkling cider so that we could toast. I'm not sure if he was excited about the moment or the opportunity to drink sparkling cider from a wine glass, but whatever the case, how significant to be celebrating this moment with him. This is the kid that almost took me out of here during his birth. Now, here I am, celebrating the election of the first black president with him. Yes Jumaane, you too can be president. I could tell it was uncomfortable for him to see me crying, but at the same time I sensed his happiness and I think I felt him contemplate what this truly represented on a larger scale.
I imagine if God allows me to wake in the morning, I and the world won't be the same. Something has shifted in the Universe and I think it is a monumental step in the right direction for mankind. Thank you Obama for dreaming big, America for supporting the dream, and the world for embracing the possibility that we could all live in peace.
Take care of yourself and one another,
Flabbergasted,
Marine
Monday, October 27, 2008
Mixed Emotions
Over the past few weeks, I have been dealing with my rollercoaster emotions around the fact that we will have our first Black President. A Black man. I imagine my ancestors are breaking out the sparkling cider while thanking God for the faithfulness of His/Her promises. If you are experiencing a lot of clouds in your area, it is because they are kicking up a lot of dust from all the dancing and shouting up in heaven. Unlike many of us, they never doubted this moment for one second.
I also think about my own vision. A vision that drove me to write a book celebrating and uplifting African-American men long before it was fashionable to do so. A vision that tells the story of a Black man who loves God, honors his family and children, respects his fellow brothers and sisters regardless of what shade of the rainbow they reflect, and who is determined to make this world a better place for all. I imagine my ancestors demanding that I hold fast to my dream just as they did Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he stood before thousands of people and declared this very day that is now being ushered in by Barack Obama in his I Have A Dream Speech.
And so, as I try to wrap my brain around the tragedy that Jennifer Hudson and her family find thrust upon them, I sift through it all with my own belief system. What I come up with is far too complicated and leaves my head spinning, requiring me to turn to the One who is all, knows all and created all with a bombardment of questions. Many of my questions go unanswered, or so I think, and others are given what I feel are flippant answers given the simplicity of their truth. I find myself wanting all of my questions satisfied with answers that I think make sense, and realize I am not seeking, but telling. I am telling this all powerful force what and how I think things should be, and given my limited understanding, I know best right?
In the midst of all my confusion, I can hold fast to one truth, and that truth is that life is a mystery with definite certainties. I trust not because I have experienced, but my experiences have taught me to trust. I know that love conquers all, but how each of us reaches that understanding is as individual as we are, but serves us all the same. I have found that God is and isn't. We are all individuals on our own wonderful journey, but yet we are all one.
Let's take care of ourselves and each other,
Peace, Love & Blessings,
Marina
I also think about my own vision. A vision that drove me to write a book celebrating and uplifting African-American men long before it was fashionable to do so. A vision that tells the story of a Black man who loves God, honors his family and children, respects his fellow brothers and sisters regardless of what shade of the rainbow they reflect, and who is determined to make this world a better place for all. I imagine my ancestors demanding that I hold fast to my dream just as they did Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he stood before thousands of people and declared this very day that is now being ushered in by Barack Obama in his I Have A Dream Speech.
And so, as I try to wrap my brain around the tragedy that Jennifer Hudson and her family find thrust upon them, I sift through it all with my own belief system. What I come up with is far too complicated and leaves my head spinning, requiring me to turn to the One who is all, knows all and created all with a bombardment of questions. Many of my questions go unanswered, or so I think, and others are given what I feel are flippant answers given the simplicity of their truth. I find myself wanting all of my questions satisfied with answers that I think make sense, and realize I am not seeking, but telling. I am telling this all powerful force what and how I think things should be, and given my limited understanding, I know best right?
In the midst of all my confusion, I can hold fast to one truth, and that truth is that life is a mystery with definite certainties. I trust not because I have experienced, but my experiences have taught me to trust. I know that love conquers all, but how each of us reaches that understanding is as individual as we are, but serves us all the same. I have found that God is and isn't. We are all individuals on our own wonderful journey, but yet we are all one.
Let's take care of ourselves and each other,
Peace, Love & Blessings,
Marina
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Oh My!!
Hey there my peeps! What's crackin! Are you loving your life? I hope so. What a miracle, this thing we call life, huh? I tell you, I have been on such a high the past few weeks that I don't anticipate I will come down anytime soon. What has caused me such bliss you ask? Oh my,it's called life!!! Simple as that! If you don't get how beautiful it is to be alive despite what is happening in your life, think of the other option. I won't preach, but trust me when I tell you life ain't always been a road paved with rose bushes and pretty flowers for me. Yet, I am one to tell you it's all worth the ride. No matter what comes your way, when you have God on your side, there is NOTHING that can break you. I mean nothing.
Hold fast to your dreams my friends. Never, ever stop dreaming. I know what it's like to wonder if all of your dreams will ever come true and to wonder if you are dreaming in vain. And I am here to tell you that I don't have the answers to why things are the way they are. But one thing I can say for sure is that God wants for you ten times more than what you can imagine.
Stay positive and remember...take care of yourself and each other.
Marina
Hold fast to your dreams my friends. Never, ever stop dreaming. I know what it's like to wonder if all of your dreams will ever come true and to wonder if you are dreaming in vain. And I am here to tell you that I don't have the answers to why things are the way they are. But one thing I can say for sure is that God wants for you ten times more than what you can imagine.
Stay positive and remember...take care of yourself and each other.
Marina
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