"Your breath stinks and you have B.O.!"

Frequently I read DiversityInc. It is an online compilation of articles and interviews, opinions and blogs that support diversity. Regularly I receive their emails and am always interested in the topics they cover. I believe you must join to read the articles in full.

Today's headline really caught my eye: 'You're Too Pretty to Be a Lesbian' and Other Offensive Compliments. I hope the link allows you to read them all, it was very interesting.

Often I am torn with always having to be SO politically correct. It saturates my thinking and often how I share things with you here on this blog. I would never intentionally want to offend anyone ~ ever. That is just who I am, but being so careful all of the time is exhausting!

Today my mind has been grappling with the Father Phleger YouTube video where he openly mocked Senator Hillary Clinton at a sermon for Trinity United Church of Christ. Things that could once be said to a particular audience in privacy can no longer be said. That is good and that is bad. With our first amendment rights, are we really allowed to say exactly what we want to? Does anyone think he meant to offend or just reach his audience? Now days I am never too sure!

Here again, I have attended Father Phleger's St. Sabina Church. I have enjoyed his sermons because, as my Dad says, "he is all about the (black) community". When there was a rash of violence and improprieties against the black community in the 90's, he and his parishioners took down huge billboards to help discourage drugs, alcohol and the violence. Then in the early part of 2000, he and his parishoners erected billboards with positive messages. He has marched for us. Stormed City Hall for us. He went against the archdiocese for us. A white priest always fighting for equality on the black South Side of Chicago. He has been a great advocate, but I really do not condone his speech. The Clinton Administration came to Chicago and offered us federal grant money and funded quite a few things to help curb violence during that time. I understand he wants to support his congregation, but in affect, he is not a black person. The Clintons have worked just as hard if not harder for the black community on many levels, and have worked with him. What kind of message is Chicago sending out to the world?? Mocking people over this election, that is just not cool...is it? Using race, though we are vastly segregated and racist here ~ aren't we trying to move past this?

Anyway, we all say stupid and out of line things. We are humans! Our thoughts change all of the time. As do our opinions and it is all kind of interesting.

I get the most outlandish commentary myself! But I take into account that it is human nature and we're just not inclined to think before we speak?

During the winter shortly after September 11th, I was walking with my mom and 4 year old son down a very trendy diverse street on the Northside of Chicago. Being a "windy" cold Chicago day, I had a black wool scarf wrapped about me thinking I was quite stylish. A young man rode by and yelled, "f**king Arabs!" We turned looking about until we realized we were the only people within a few blocks. Realizing he was yelling at us, I screamed back, "No we're not, we're black!" After thinking about it, and talking with my mom, I should have said, "Oh yeah, so what you f**cking moron!!", but I'm just not one who thinks quick on her feet!

All of our differences make us so much the same! I want to be the person who stands up for everyone! You see, I am also very tall...I get the whole "Did you play ball" lines and because I AM black, I get the typical, "What ARE you?" (uh, human?) "Wow, you're black? Really? You speak so well. You have nice hair. Both parents are black, really? Well, you're so nice anyway".

So reading these exchanges today on DiversityInc and in the news was sort of fun. I hope we are at least learning more about ourselves in all of this, or are we learning too much??? Is the new age of technology micromanaging our lives to the point where very soon our body functions will be at the mercy of everyone? Will we be watching Hillary buy Depends, or Barack farting LIVE at 10!!?

I am very rarely, truly offended save for the time I was 18 and a supervisor spit on me once I told him my background. My sons have been called "N***ers at the park, and well the list goes on, I just don't get as mad as I should? Have I become complacent with the world? Have I been told, "What would Jesus do?" too often, and just made it a way of life?

What about you guys. Have there been boisterous comments that have offended you? Have you ever inadvertently offended? What is being too sensitive or not sensitive enough? Inquiring minds want to know!

Tomorrow is another day!

I went away without having gone anywhere. Somewhat like this beautiful piece of art on this busy thoroughfare. Standing tall in the midst of chaos. Not really knowing where I was or what I was thinking!

It wasn't writer's block or any emergency.
It was a rare form of brain freeze, but not really quite that either.

I started posts everyday in my head. Plenty of juicy politics, slimy affairs, and world catastrophes occurred, but I guess there was nothing I was feeling passionate about? Is THAT possible?

Not really having much success telling you what was going on in my head the last few days, I guess I should plainly admit that I am not so sure myself!

There were plenty of fun encounters on Blog Catalog, as usual. Often that can be a BIG distraction. Everyone is so cool, kooky and fun over there...you could spend hours, if not days, just commenting and having a ball!

Mainly though, I have allowed something to weigh heavy on my mind. It is a major complication in my mind of how we view, and as a society, influence crime with ourselves and our legislators.

A new wave is being tested through many parts of the world. It is akin to

Evidence Based Practices

but for our purposes, its relation to treating offenders and reducing recidivism.

The major shut-down I experienced is closely related to a meeting I attended with a Canadian professional who encourages responsivity and cognitive behavioral support when one has committed an offense.

This new take on our dealings with those who commit heinous crimes against society is both invigorating and frightening.

Somehow the complexity of it all shut me down! My main complaint has been that in attempting to assist offenders in lifestyle changes...while a great idea, can be very taxing and go against the grain. It is also a huge feat ~ most adults have to reach a pivotal point before they seek behavioral changes.

I always argue this is a prime issue that should be dealt with, here in America, at a federal level and somehow be implemented into our early child-hood development.

Teaching youngsters in early childhood curriculum about anger management, intervention and strategies for healthy living seems like the most productive angle.

Citing the problems we are facing here in the States with teen violence, rage and gang (I say terrorist) activity, wouldn't this be a more congenial approach?? It is cost effective and more likely to succeed. It may not be as profitable. Surprisingly, many dollars are made off of crime and correctional institutions. Building jails and courthouses is really not the wave of the future anymore, though many are inclined to believe that it is. There has even been a lot of talk to privatize the criminal justice system! What do you guys think about that?

Productive programs should be enriched. Programs like "Cease Fire" should not be subjected to administrative funding changes. Just because there is a change in the White House, our safety should not be impacted.

Well, it is all just a thought ~ pondering all of this somehow shut me down! Glad to be back and I look forward to all you have to say!

Enjoy the day!!

Fun Town!

Blogging for Human Rights yesterday was really fun. I enjoyed reading all of our missions, ideas and viewpoints!!

Sadly, Mother's Day in Chicago was a monsoon so the Y-Me Breast Cancer Walk in Grand Park turned into something straight out of Noah's Ark. My sister, her husband and my niece lasted about 2 hours before giving up, but she raised money and all in all it was a great effort. Better weather next year!!




I did however capture Chicago Saturday and Monday. It was slightly overcast, but beautiful as always! So, as promised, I have posted just some of the pictures.

Our mayor, Richard M. Daley has done wonders with our landscaping and has encouraged some very interesting art to be displayed every year. I love it!





One year we had cows. Last year we had globes. This year is a mystery. Our gardens have been modeled after Versailles. In addition to all of that, we have received a gift from Polish Artist Magdalena Abakanowicz. Her gift, titled "Agora" are giant, massive, cast iron, hollowed out figures that resemble walking boots or legs...I suppose you must use your artistic interpretation! There are 106 figures that appear to be just walking around the corner at Roosevelt Road and South Michigan Avenue. It always makes me stare!





Enjoy the pics and enjoy the day!



THIS is a cast iron flower near Buckingham Fountain, still researching who the artist is! Cute isn't it? It stands about 8 feet tall!



THIS guy was a live mannequin. Painted silver from head to toe, he billed himself as the "Chicago Tin Man".

Blogger's Unite For Human Rights ~ Let's Talk About NOLA

As Blogger's Unite today reporting on Human Rights issues, I would like to once again share a video that I posted back on January 24, 2008. This video, from Finding Our Folk, is part of a documentary or series from months ago that has recently been honored at the New Orleans Film Festival! I received the email today that details what went down at this year's festival which ran in April 2008. The Finding Our Folk Tour Documentary was chosen for the Audience Award ~ Special Recognition! So congratulations to the Finding Our Folk Team!

In addition, the New Orleans brass band HOT 8 were also on hand engaging in dialogue and also performing. The email also shared that the Boston International Film Festival June 9, 2008 at the Lowes/AMC Theatres will also feature the Finding Our Folk Documentary from 3-5pm.

This is such encouraging news. Many people remain displaced and unable to come home to New Orleans. Housing has not become available. Jobs remain scarce. There is still a fight for unity, for just reconstruction, for the violence to end and for other basic human rights. Please make your voices heard. New Orleans needs to stay in the focus. Please visit New Orleans City Hall.

This latest PRESS RELEASE is a must read.

As tragedies are happening all over our great world, and with such frequency, we are becoming less inclined to keep up with all of the depressing news, turning our thoughts inward as we try to triumph over our own struggles. BUT please remember that while all of these tragedies need our focus, our attention, our money and our time, New Orleans is an American Institution. It is unique to this land and it's residents have not been adequately taken care of.

As the New Orleans Hornets press on and fight for their beloved city and their place in NBA history, let's take this opportunity to bring more exposure to what needs remain, what else can be done, and how we can help NOLA!


We all know it has a special place in my heart and in my soul ~ as it does for so many others as well. Many others who left behind a home, a job, family and friends. NOLA's lifestyle, NOLA's food ~ the Mississippi, the Gulf, and Lake Pontchartrain just have to be attended to!

Enjoy the day!! Thanks Blog Catalog and ALL my blogging friends!

CHICAGO ~ BREAST CANCER & UPTOWN LIZ!

Well, it is Mother's Day Weekend!!! Happy MOTHER'S DAY to all of you who are mothers, have mothers to celebrate with or sisters, friends what have you, that you are sharing this weekend with. If you are sad this weekend at some sort of loss or memory of a loved one ~ be sure to get out and do something nice or fun!

Chicago is celebrating Mother's Day with the Y-ME Breast Cancer Walk in Grant Park!!

SO, if you readers remember our friend Ramona Russell of UptownLiz.Com, who lost her 28 year old sister to breast cancer, visit the site and buy something for someone you love all while contributing to your favorite cause!




Stay tuned, gonna be out and about taking pictures of beautiful Chicago this weekend, that is, IF it doesn't RAIN!

This one is for YOU MommyB and Keri!!!

Whew!

I really had to take a few days after the Kentucky Derby. Part of my distress was PMS, seriously, but I really had to evaluate some things. Our world is so multi-faceted. Complexities, subtleties, innuendos ~ we are a passionate race of beings.

Life goes on. In watching Eight Belles trainer Larry Jones tear up as the PETA protest ensued. REALLY, I mean there are hundreds of thousands dead in Myanmar...while everyone has their cause, can we just let the man mourn his filly in peace.

Kdawg68 has given us a few expressions of movement that I vehemently support.

I am creating a donation badge to help as well. Here are some sites to check out that support healthy environments for horses overall. As society continues to evolve, hopefully we will continue to strive for a more compassionate society for all living beings. Infanticide should be our first goal...then we can work hard toward eliminating other rights violations.

Here are the sites: OldFriendSequine.com, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Cantera USA


There will also be more information forthcoming on how we can serve those in need as Spring storms continue to devastate here and abroad.

Let's continue our mission of spreading love and peace and enjoying each other!

As always, LOVE to hear any items you love to share. I have been receiving really wonderful emails and I enjoy your friendships immensely!!

Wow

I have been crying for an hour and a half. Crying about a spirit I did not even know, but admired. I wonder what type of lesson is this? It was said this type of injury is unheard of. Two ankles at once.

I hope I did not jinx her fate somehow. I really could not watch. I flipped the telelvision on because I knew the race was over and that's when I saw her go down. I was hysterical as I am sure everyone watching was.

Rest in peace sweet Eight Belles ~

Eight Belles to GLORY on Kentucky Derby Day!

If I were at the Kentucky Derby today, I would be wearing either this hat,

OR this one!




I found these on JillHenningsHats.Com

But, unfortunately, I have never taken an interest in this sport, mainly because I am an animal lover and just the chance that an animal can be hurt at one of these events and then possibly slaughtered on sight has always been a deterrent, therefore I probably won't be watching again today.

HOWEVER! Many of you guys are Blog Catalog participants and therefore know Kdawg68.

His blog The Aspiring Horseplayer is sensitive, informative, and shows a different spin on horse racing, horses and the folks that love horses and the sport. It has drawn me in!

My dad is in his mid seventies now, so any chance to connect and share experiences, I take 'em! He and my uncles have always placed friendly wagers on whatever is going on, so this year I was able to put in my two cents thanks to Kdawg68!

This has also caused my ears to perk up when there are conversations on television, so enter Eight Belles. I mean, all the ladies in the house, you have to have a spot for her going against all of these guys! There have been only three fillies in the sport's 134 year history to win The Kentucky Derby. First there was Regret in 1915, second was Genuine Risk in 1980 and Winning Colors, who was 20 years ago in 1988. Thirty-five other fillies have tried to win the Derby and failed.


SO, Eight Belles, show 'em what you've got. Beautiful, strong, determined, fast and able to handle the colts. You go girl!









Now go out and enjoy this day!!!