R&C Effect

 You have to be living under a rock not to notice the couple that many women admire. Russell Wilson who is the star QB for the Seattle Seahawks and his lovely wife Ciara who is an R&B artist, as well as an amazing dancer. Most people know especially in the black community and urban culture are aware of the back story with Ciara's ex the rapper Future and their tumultous relationship along with their son that came as a result of that relationship.  Future was well known for getting around and had quite a few women at his disposal and you can figure the rest. Ciara in the past admitted that relationship had a toxic effect on her but fought through it and tried something Different!

Russell Wilson steps on the scence polar opposite of Future, had his own financial wealth but more importantly his personality and character was different. This is not to say he was perfect because no man or woman is, but he showed her a different side of what a man is. Attributes like integrity, respect, compassion, admiration, just to name a few. Any woman besides Ciara would be receptive to that after dealing with toxicity of cheating, emotional abuse, among other things. That decision she made to try something different well has changed her life and his life as well.

The deal with women and men nowadays is that many want that type of relationship but not many are willing to let go of mental and emotional baggage from previous relationships. Everyone has different expectations of what they want in a mate, and that's ok as long as it is realistic. Let me break this down for you.  Man makes money, money don't make a man, it is a resource that we work and build for. Nothing is wrong if a woman desires a rich man financially, but if his morals are bankrupt, as a woman you are in a piss poor situation. A nice butt and breasts are desirable for most men, I can speak for myself something I like, but that is a physical attribute of a woman, it doesn't define a woman. So as a man you can have a woman with a banging body but as time passes that figure that was lifted is going to drop and what her heart and attitude is like is going to matter most.

Moral of the story is be willing to let go of toxic baggage from your past, no matter if it is someone you share a child with, ex spouse, or whomever it may be. Be open to embrace something different because it just might change your future!

The bible says in Proverbs 20:6, "Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?"

Poetic Thought:

What is love, what is lust,

You need oxygen to breathe, a relationship needs trust,

Unrealistic expectations keeps your heart camouflage,

When presented with organic, you addicted to artificial, so you self sabotage,

The time comes to relinquish the old, embrace the blessing of something new,

Everyone has imperfections, be careful not to miss out on someone that is true!  ~ JD

There is a song out by a very talented and beautiful R&B artist by the name of  HER, the song is entitled "Damage". The song is definitely bumping but there is a particular verse that stands out the most:  

"Not worried about it, I'm putting pressure

 You only cut me if I let you

No, he ain't the one, it's just for pleasure

Either learn me or I'm a lesson gone"

Those lyrics were deep and no matter who you are woman or man be careful so you won't be damage!

Always love GOD, love yourself, and let nothing or no one define you. The best is yet to come! Until next time class dismiss!!!

Don't Forget YOU

Nowadays so much is going on, and you can find yourself going through the motions of life like a non stop flight from one destination to the next. Career, family, relationships, and other obligations are just a few examples that require your time. Men and women both experience this and cope with the stress it may bring as well.
You can give so much of yourself and not realize you have become empty like a car with no gasoline.
There is nothing wrong with being a selfless person, especially since there appear to be an abundance of selfish people out here. One must also not neglect or forget about themselves in the process. When people do this, it can open the door way to mental and emotional deficiencies, such as depression, anxiety, anger & resentment to name a few.
Picture being on an airplane with a child, the safety instructions in case of an emergency, you must first put your oxygen mask on, this is required and wise to do. To some this may seem selfish, but if a parent  doesn't do it, he or she may pass out and won't be able to help their child.
Moral of the story, if you don't take time to replenish yourself, you won't be any good to those you love and serve everyday.
The bible says in Isaiah 40:31, " But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint."


Poetic Thought:

Life is not a leperchaun, luck of the Irish,
Protect yourself at all cost, no Coronavirus,
Balance your equilibrium with work and play,
Embrace the present, cherish today,
GOD will grant you blessings that are new,
While loving others, don't forget you!  ~ JD


I will leave you with this, Caring about others is a COURTESY but self love is a NECESSITY!
This month of March marks 7 years I started this blog Real Life University back in 2013. Though I took an unintentional hiatus, I am grateful for everyone who has supported this blog along with my books and podcast. GOD is good and I had to hit the reset button on my Purpose. The best is yet to come! Until next time, class dismiss!

The PURGE: Entertainment vs Reality

There is a movie franchise called the Purge. I have seen the first three and recently the Saturday following the 4th of July I saw the latest installment which is a prequel called "The First Purge" which I felt was the best one.  For those reading this blog that are not familiar with the movies, they are an American dystopian action horror films. The basis is that the american government is now being ruled by NFFA which stands for New Founding Fathers of America. In an effort to keep crime down in the latter part of the 21st century, one day out of the year for 12 hours people are allowed to purge their anger and inhibitions through crime including murder and not be held responsible for it. Now to the sane and moral people that seemed inhumane and horrific, but sadly enough many people participated.

Getting back to this prequel The First Purge, it showed how it all began with this experiment the government offered the Black and Latino citizens in low income area of Staten Island, New York with monetary incentives up to $5000 or more to participate in purging their anger in any shape or form. Many of the people living in the projects of Staten Island, that were broke, despaired, naturally took to the experiment in which criminal acts including murder was for a gain of  monetary incentive if you survive.  The NFFA kept tabs by putting tracking devices in people's arms and giving them contact lenses so they can witness the acts of purging as they happened going viral.

Even though this is a fictitious movie series depicting America in the latter part of the 21st century, it possess some harsh realities. When it comes to black and brown people communities, there is poisoning in the water supply, food contamination, human trafficking for organs, sex trafficking of girls and young women, police brutality, drug trafficking, economic disparity, a disproportionate rate of violence.  This is by designed to exterminate a group of people who are thought to be a burden or nuisance in this land of the Red, White, and Blue according to their race, social economic class, religious beliefs, and so forth. America has purged on black people since slavery, lynchings, Jim Crow, Tuskegee experiment, just to name a few. Now the Latino community is feeling it with separation of children from parents being detained in camps and sent back to Mexico because the majority say all are illegal immigrants and have no place in America. Mass school and public shootings happening so frequently to where people are becoming desensitized. Yet we are told by the  treasonous head of the government he is making America great again.  It's become a cliche but  stay woke!

The bible says in 2 Timothy 3:1-3, "But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self control, brutal, not lovers of the good." 

Poetic Thought:

Gunshots fired everyday,
Sad to say, hard for children to play,
Life is not a sprint, but a marathon of endurance,
Crime is a liability, cover your love ones with insurance,
Immorality has expedited the last days with a surge,
Seek help from GOD, protect yourself, from the wickedness of man's purge! ~ JD

I used the Purge movies even though it is for entertainment there lies hidden messages, we see everyday in our society. The nature of man has become increasingly evil. Actor Donald Glover whose alter ego when it comes to music Childish Gambino has a song called "This is America" and the video  sums up a lot of what is happening right before our eyes. Continue to promote love, the word of GOD but be proactive and protect yourself and love ones at any cost!  Until next time, class dismiss!!!

MENTAL STATE

A lot is going on in our communities and society at large. Mental illness is running rampant with no discriminant of people be it male, female, Black, White, or any ethnicity. Just here recently in the news two very wealthy individuals Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain committed suicide leaving behind the pieces for their families to pick up and shock from their fans. Now that this has happen to some high profile individuals, the narrative of mental health is beginning to be discuss a little more and talked about on social media. In the bigger scheme of things it is good that people are talking about mental illness but the million dollar question is what course of action are you going to take to help someone who may be suffering from mental illness?

On a more personal level, I'm sure someone reading this blog, know a family member, friend, colleague or someone who deals with or is affected by mental illness. In the African-American community people don't like talking about it or addressing it properly because of the perceive stigma that comes along with it. In so many cases people will say just pray about it or I'm praying for you and someone could really be in need of professional help. Now don't get me wrong my GOD is more than capable of all things, but he also allows us understanding of wise counsel, so instead of just praying for that individual suggest or seek some professional help for them. Many people are having mental breakdowns, committing heinous acts, because of the intense battle with mental illness and their story will not be publicize on the entertainment news but they are important in the lives of those who love them. 

A few common mental illness disorders that are affecting people that are around you everyday are; Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety & Panic, Schizophrenia just to name a few. If you know a love one, friend, or colleague battling any one of these or some other mental illness disorder, be there for them and if they are not getting help for it, encourage them to. This battle of the mind is Chess not checkers and must be approached strategically in order to be effective in helping someone.

The bible says in  Ephesians 4:23, "An be renewed in the spirit of your mind".

Poetic Thought:

You see Pepsi but to some it taste like Coke,
The voiceless try to speak, but they choke,
Emotions and decisions are in constant conflict,
Prescriptions become a convenient fix,
Peace is what you stand in line for and wait,
Cast your cares on the Creator and seek help to heal your mental state. ~ JD


Sometimes when I am out and about in the city running my errands or heading to my destination, I see people on the street corner and a lot of times some of them are talking to themselves acting erratic. I assume many people passing by in their vehicles or walking into the stores think those people are crazy and probably on drugs. In some cases they might be, but I'm sure there are some of those people who are suffering from a mental illness and it landed them on the streets. Have compassion and thank the Lord above for your blessings and having a sound mind. Until next time, class dismiss!!!

FLIGHT or FIGHT

You have to be living under a rock not to have seen in the news about the cowardly mass shooting killing of four people at a Waffle House diner in Nashville, TN suburb of Antioch on Sunday morning April 22nd. This was another display of a mass shooting culture here in the United States of America that seems to happen quite frequently nowadays.

The culprit a  29 year old white man Travis Reinking killed four people of color 3 men and a woman. This begs the question beyond just another mass shooting was this a hate crime and racially motivated.
The bravery of a 29 year old black man James Shaw Jr to act quickly and disarm the cowardly shooter, not only saved his life but saved the lives of so many other patrons at that diner. When asked later by reporters what made him act courageous enough to wrestle the AR-15 assault rifle from the gun man his reply was, "I was just trying to live, I figured if I was going to die, he was going to have to work for it".

A simple yet profound response it was. In the grand scheme of things, if you were in a situation like that what would you do? Would you allow yourself to be a casualty of a lunatic shooting spree or would you fight back to save your life? The theory of Flight or Fight come into play. I applaud James Shaw for what he did because had he not, he could have been a victim along with many others present at that Waffle House diner in the wee hours of Sunday morning. He would have missed out on being present in the life of his 4 year old daughter. Knowing what you have and who you have to live for triggers action and I share the same sentiment he did.

It's not about trying to be a hero, but if you can't run to get to safety which is (Flight) then your only other choice is to (Fight) for your life. We must be vigilant and alert in our day to day coming and going because the world is full of sin and people are carrying out various acts of violence towards the innocent.

The bible says in Matthew 24:12-13, "Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."

Poetic Thought:

The world is trying to finish a wicked race it has start,
People influence by gun violence, shattering a million hearts,
Hard to enjoy everyday life without a warning of fear,
Many pray there won't be another massacre from a far or near,
All is not lost, trust GOD and stay in his will and sight,
When confronted by evil, allow wisdom to dictate should take flight or fight! ~ JD

My prayers and thoughts go out to the families of the four victims in the Waffle House shooting in Nashville, Tennessee. I send the same prayer to all the families of victims of mass shootings over the past years in our country. Gun laws and background checks must be revamped and tightened, so please vote for those politicians who will listen to the people. Hats off again to the brother James Shaw who happens to be a fellow alumnus like myself of Tennessee State University. T-S-U Tigers!!
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. Until the next time, class dismiss!!!

BLACK PANTHER (Symbolism) 5th Year Anniversary Edition

You would have to be hiding under a rock, not to know the spectacular movie by Marvel comics "Black Panther" which was released in theaters back on February 16th. The movie was a great one with action, good story line, and a glorious display of Black people as Kings, Queens, through the lenses of beauty, strength, and intelligence. It was set in the fictitious country of Wakanda in the motherland continent of Africa. The country had a sacred and most powerful resource known to earth Vibranium which was a source of power to the Black Panther and their technological advancement over the rest of the civilize world. The resource was hidden along with country itself from the rest of the world because of the corruption. So to the naked eye, it seemed like a poor, desolate, rural country in Africa to the rest of the United Nations.
Prince Tchalla was the heir to throne and also the Black Panther fighting injustice in other parts of Africa. Once he went through the ritual in becoming the king, he was influence by the love of his life  Nakia about helping other people of color around the world with the precious powerful resource Wakanda possessed. Though hesitant at first it took some adversity abroad and internally in order for his eyes to open for the need to help others outside of Wakanda and still protect his people as well. There is a lot more to the movie but I am not going to spoil it for anyone reading who hasn't seen it yet.
The symbolism here is broad but let me break it down. First the fictional resource Vibranium that is in possession of the people of Wakanda to me represent the resource we as black people have all across the world. That resource is our  physical, mental, and spiritual gifts given to us by GOD that has been instrumental with contributions to society at large since the beginning of time. Examples can be seen through sports, art, music, medicine, and overcoming slavery and social injustice still to this day. Black people alone in the United States according to Black Enterprise spending power is 1.1 trillion dollars and projected to rise towards 2 trillion by the year 2021 which is three years away. Now take that number and flip it to investing instead of consumerism and you will truly have a Wakanda community in reality not just on the silver screen.  Let's move from economics to the social aspect, eliminating crime in all its forms, violence, drugs from our communities. This will display a sense of pride and truly take the shackles off the mentality embedded from many years of  social injustice such as slavery, Jim crow, mass incarceration, police brutality to name a few. This has to start with every black man, woman, and child in order for it to become a reality. We must love who we see in the mirror and extend that to our fellow brother and sister or else we are just left with false pride and goosebumps from a fictitious super hero movie that gave a glimpse of what people of color are which is royalty and love by GOD.

The bible says in Proverbs 29:18, "Where there is no vision the people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom's instruction."

Poetic Thought:

Black people full of culture and influence,
Endured many atrocities with no Aflac, no accident, no insurance,
Rich with melanin in our skin, and resiliency in our heart,
Change the dynamics of any endeavor we put our mind to and start,
Take a drink from the river of life like a deer with antlers,
Chosen people of GOD, everyday lets become our own Black Panther! ~ JD

My hope is that we take away more than goosebumps from the movie and really put in the work to change every community into a real life Wakanda  economically, socially, spiritually, and culturally for the next generation after us. In a few days this will be the 5th anniversary I started this blog back in 2013. I want to thank everyone who has ever taken the time to read it. I truly appreciate you! Until the next time, class dismiss!!!

DIVIDED ATTENTION

America has seen the worst side of people in regards to race relations in this country this year 2017.  Last weekend in Charlottesville,Virginia a group of  white nationalists, KKK, neo nazis all marched in protest to the taking down of Confederate statues of Robert E. Lee. They were shouting anti-semantic slurs, racial slurs and it escalated into violence among them and people who were counter protesting this bigotry and hate at this high level. To the fears of most who were witnessing this on television across the country not only was their bloodshed but a young woman lost her life when a coward plowed his car through the crowd of people who were against the racist groups marching. Many others were injured. This was on display for the world to see the divisiveness occurring in the United States with race relations reaching a dangerous boiling point.

To make matters worse President Trump showed empathy for the racist groups and was claiming both sides were to blame for the violence more so the ones counter protesting in which he referred to as the alt left. No surprise this man is showing his true colors and makes no apologies about it either. Yet he still has many followers believing in this racist ideology as well as a few black folks who have totally sold out or playing the coon card to the fullest. He is not bringing the country together but further dividing it as well as increasing the boldness of these white militia groups and supremacist agenda to  "Make America Great Again" in code meaning take us back to Jim Crow days where people of color were treated as second class citizens.

Nobody wants to talk about the elephant in the room but the increased killing of unarmed black people at the hands of police on camera but no convictions or accountability of the cops, the pipeline to prison for minorities, inadequate economic resources, high poverty in the inner cities, are just a few issues to name that is contributing to this chaos and people have gotten fed up over the injustice.

The lenses are seen differently through the eyes of white people and black people for the most part. An example would be Colin Kaepernick last year taking a knee during the national anthem during the NFL season to protest the police brutality against black people in the United States.  A  majority of white people  felt he was disrespecting the flag , and he should just play football or find some other way to protest.  Many didn't acknowledge the reason he was kneeling it was more so how dare you bring light to this atrocity happening especially during the playing of the national anthem at a football game for our entertainment. No longer will racism be disguised as patriotism we see clearly.  And of course some black people felt Kaepernick shouldn't have done it either for various reasons. This generation is not our grandparents generation with the same strength of unity they had to overcome racial inequality back in the day, but folks are starting to wake up.  In order to ensure the next generation is not reliving an oppresive past we all must become proactive instead of reactive!

The bible says in Ezekiel 22:29, "The people of the land have practiced oppression and committed robbery, and they have wronged the poor and needy and have oppressed sojourner without justice."

Poetic Thought:

Not checkers but chess,
Strategic moves in order to fix this mess,
Racism and bigotry has a venomous bite,
The Zebra can't disguise itself, in plain view black and white,
Violence erupting into a deadly dimension,
Unity takes the blinders off, no more divided attention! ~ JD


The people of GOD need to come together more than ever, black, latino, white, in order to defeat this demonic spirit of racism. If you truly love GOD and your skin color may not be black but you witness the injustices that are happening then you will speak out and take action to help, but if your silence speaks louder than your disgust or action then you have asserted yourself  on where you stand. Stay woke brothers and sisters and educate your children on what's going on! Real Life University is back this semester, until next time, class dismiss!!!

Black is Gold

Black people are beautiful and innovative. We have transformed society and American culture in many ways over the past few centuries from slavery to modern day. However there is a problem, black people tend to subscribe to self hate, jealousy, idiotic behavior, unmerited favoritism, among many other things. It has infiltrated and broken up the black family and confused the identities of men and women which thus affects and confuses the children. Allow me to explain what I mean.
First off there is a divide when it comes to the importance of caring about one another between black men and black women. No doubt the black woman is beautiful and precious and should be respected and protected but it must be reciprocated as well. It takes two to make a child and bring forth that life. Yes black men have to step up and be better fathers regardless if they are in a committed relationship with the mother or not. Misogyny and male bashing feminism both have no place but seemingly  are becoming prevalent throughout our communities. Let me break it down like this, God made Adam in his image and he took a rib from Adam to make Eve. A woman is made from the rib of man and men are born through the womb of women. A complete cycle. So therefore both black men and women need one another and should therefore respect each other and so should their children. In the bible the book of Ephesians says in chapter 6 verse 2 "Honor your father and mother.This is the first commandment with a promise." Now I realize you have mama boys and daddy's girls, in which children are closer or tend to favor one parent a little more, but if you were fortunate to have had both parents in your life whether they were married or not you should take heed to that verse in the bible and not ostracize your parents or children for that matter.  Fathers show boys how to be men and mothers show daughters how to be women. If this was done more consistently in the African-American community you would see less criminal activity, mental health issues, broken relationships, confuse gender sexuality,  poverty,  among many other things. It would seem like things are hopeless, but all is not lost. Bottom line we have to work together to uplift our people and love and treat one another fairly. Black men and women shouldn't be competing with one another but working together to build a better future for generations to come. Each play a vital part in the bigger picture solving the ills of our people. Let's stop the blame game, the my cause is more socially conscious than yours, the hate and jealousy, the manipulation and abuse of one another. Learn to love one another despite the differences we all may have. Support each other, patronize our businesses, help mentor in the community with our children even if you are not in the field of education. These are just a few strategies that would truly help in the plight of black people here in the United States and across the world. We are more than just amazing athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs, we are GOLD!

 The bible says in Proverbs 29:18, " Where there is no vision the people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom's instruction."

Poetic Thought:

New day, a new song,
Learn from mistakes of the past, embrace right and relinquish wrong,
Faith with works is the remedy,
Cultivate and be proud of your identity,
Be a thermostat change the temperature, not too hot nor too cold,
One of the most precious resource on earth, black is gold! ~ JD

A show I like to watch on ABC when I have time in my schedule, is the sitcom Black-ish with Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross. The show is funny but always has a message pertaining to the black family and black people in general  when it comes to pop culture, politics, stereotypes, etc. One episode that stood out to me was after the aftermath of the Donald Trump presidential election and how everyone else was freaking out at the character Dre's job and he gave a passionate speech about the plight of black people and the resiliency we have no matter the circumstances turning lemons into lemonade! Never underestimate, black is Gold!!! Until the next time, class dismiss!!!

RESURRECT YOUR PURPOSE (3 yr Anniversary Edition)

It's spring time 2016. There are numerous things going on in our society right now. President Obama being the first U.S. President to visit Cuba in almost ninety years. The 2016 Presidential race which has been short of a mockery especially on the Republican side. The crazy weather with its storms and floods among many other things. All is not lost despite the way somethings appear.

Having faith in God is the key to withstanding anything this life throws at you. We are a few days away from Easter Sunday or rather I say Resurrection Sunday for Christian believers in Jesus Christ.
If you are a Christian then you know Jesus was crucified, died, and three days later rose again with all power, so that anyone who believes shall not perish but have a right to eternal life in Heaven. Jesus Christ died for our sins, he made the ultimate sacrifice in the midst of being unappreciated, tortured, abused, betrayed, among many other things. The factor that stands out though, is that he fulfilled his God ordained purpose.

Allow me to draw an analogy as it relates to you and me. As men and women we go through the adversity of life, sickness, financial issues, heartache, broken families, emotional imbalance, and a whole gambit of other issues. Think  of that as being placed in a tomb prematurely, but without faith in God you will remain there. When you exercise your faith in God, he will resurrect you, so you can be on your path to fulfilling your purpose. Without faith it is impossible to please God and even more it's harder see the light at the end of the tunnel or the sun because of the down pour of rain. I encourage every man and woman reading this blog to resurrect your purpose because God has something mighty in store for you.

In the bible in Luke 23:46 it says, Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" when he had said this, he breathed his last.

Poetic Thought:

Sin always keeps an open invite,
Obedience is better than sacrifice, strive to live right,
Everyday it's another round in life's boxing ring,
Roll with the punches, keep swinging, your trainer is the King of Kings,
Titles and accolades are ok, they touch only the surface,
To be an agent of change, allow God to resurrect your purpose!!! ~ JD

There are many songs I love by the R&B soul band Earth, Wind, and Fire. Rest in peace to Maurice White the founder.  This song is in my top five favorite by them, entitled "Devotion." At the end of the day we all need Devotion to God and to our Purpose which will allow us to have better devotion to our families. You show me what a man or woman is devoted to and I can tell where his or her heart is at. I want to wish everyone a Happy Resurrection Day! Immerse yourself into the goodness of God and give him thanks for his son Jesus Christ and all he has done for you. Also this week marks 3 years since I started this blog back in March 2013. I thank everyone who has taken the time to read it and I hope it inspires you and may you continue to support it. I thank you all! God Bless! Until next time, class dismiss!!!  
 

BLACKBerry ASSAULT

There is a lot of violence going on in today's society against every culture of people. But the climate here in the United States of violence against black people is just short of genocide.
First there is a mass assault committed through black on black crime in our communities. Everything from gang violence to domestic violence and anything in between happening at an alarming rate. The effects of these horrendous acts are devastating to many families. As a culture we need to stop the self hatred and the inability to have constructive conflict resolution instead of destructive.
It is a terrible thing when a race of people continue to commit murder against themselves.

On the other side is the assault committed by police brutality against African-Americans. The countless cases in the news of brutality caught on camera but only later to be dismissed in the court of law. I totally understand the principle of respecting authority and we must definitely have to teach our children to do that as well. What I do have an issue with is when someone unarmed life is taken innocently or excessive force is used against a person of color but in that same scenario someone who is Caucasian that may less likely happen. No race card being played because it has always been the ace of spade since this country was conceived. Too many examples of this is constantly happening but there is always a justification for it. Wrong is wrong no matter if it is a civilian or a person behind a law enforcement badge, because at the end of the day we all are imperfect despite our race, gender, or occupation. People are entitled to their own opinion, but if you just look at things from one perspective be it the law or the victim, I feel the full answer to the problem will elude you.
I know people in law enforcement  that are genuine people, parents, and are not corrupt. But there are many who are.

I'm in the education field and the same principle applies for teachers, administrators as well for people of a particular race or culture. The problem comes in, when those perpetrators are not dealt with to keep the stain off the law abiding black citizens, the non racist or overly aggressive police officers. It seems a lot of people rather point the finger and feel their perspective is right instead of trying to get to the root of the problem.

The recent incident that just took place in a South Carolina high school a few days ago that went viral on the internet is yet another example. Honestly when I first saw the video of the white male officer yank the  black female student out of the chair and man handle her it angered me. I was looking at the fact he was a man and that was a girl who was not armed and posing a threat even though an order was given to get up from her seat.
Then I realize later that the teacher and an administrator had asked her to leave for a disciplinary infraction and she refused being insubordinate. Right there is a problem. So many of our children are not being taught to respect authority despite how they may or may not like it. That responsibility falls on the parents. By no means am I excusing the excessive force the officer used against the girl but it could have been avoided if she would have just gotten up when the teacher had asked her to.
In retrospect both sides have to do better to keep these incidents from happening frequently and becoming fatal whether caught on video or not. Parents must teach their children to respect all authority do what is ask of them and law enforcement  must demonstrate more compassion and de-escalate situations against people of color to minimize the outcome of deadly or excessive force.

The bible says in Ephesians 6:12, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms".

Poetic Thought:

The 60's civil rights movement was started but is not finish,
The progress made has been distorted and diminish,
The waves of destruction have hit high tide,
Black lives are being exterminated through many forms of genocide,
We have to take responsibility and change through action not rhetoric default,
It's past time to wake up, to stop this Blackberry assault! ~ JD

The more these issues remain the more this social injustice volcano is going to continue to erupt!
No the world is not perfect but everyone can play their respective part to do what is right for the common good of all. Until next time, class dismiss!!!

The TRANSITION

At some point in your life there will be a transition. The transition could be personally, professionally, spiritually or all three and then some. How you view and embrace the transition will determine if your outcome is positive or negative.
Human nature says a lot of people are afraid of change or resist it subconsciously because of their comfort zone. How many times in your life have you resisted a transition that was inevitable for your life to grow? It could be the transition from a relationship, a job, a habit, or anything that keeps you from your full potential as a man or woman.
"Purpose requires the transition from complacency to courageous effective change." So whatever the transition you are going through now or have completed allow it to make you a better person and thank God in the process.

The bible says in Philippians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

Poetic Thought:

My thoughts are deep not surface,
Eliminate anything not beneficial to your Purpose,
Strive to manifest your potential,
Blessings will begin to flow exponential,
Life is made up of actions and decisions,
In order to reach your destiny, you must go through the transition! ~ JD

Thirty days from now on November 6th will be my birthday. I will make the transition from my current age to the next age. All my life I have been in a transition from one level to the next. A series of lessons: growth and maturity, triumphs and losses, love and heartache, among many more. I have learned it is God allowing me to become the Man I am suppose to be. It is still a process but I'm striving everyday to fulfill his purpose for my life. Recently I have made a transition  to becoming a published author with my debut book 5 Dimensions of A Man by Jerry Davis. It is available for purchase @ www.Xlibris.com  www.Barnes&Noble.com  www.Amazon.com  I'm excited for the future and what God has in store for me, so anyone reading this blog embrace your transition because it just might change your life! Until next time, class dismiss!!!

LETTING GO (2 yr Anniversary edition)

There comes a time in our lives as men and women there is something we have to let go. Letting go could be a relationship, a business, a friendship, or even self habits that are not beneficial. Whether by choice or not, letting go can be difficult especially if its something you like, someone you love, or just your comfort zone pertaining to your career or way of living.
It's human nature to resist change sometimes and come to grips with letting go of something that you want but may not be in the will of God for your life. It can become a strain on a person's emotions, decisions, and overall behavior.
I've come to learn in this life that everything I want or desire may not always be what God has for my life. As a man sometimes this can be hard to accept. I realize being driven to be successful, love someone from your heart the best you can, being strong for your family can be overwhelming and allow you to be reluctant to relinquish that thing you familiar and comfortable with.
It's all a part of the process in this journey of life we all at some point have to go through.

In the bible the words says in Philippians 4:7, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Poetic Thought:

Time is of essence,
Absence of peace, allows chaos to be present,
Faith is the antedote for fear,
It may be raining but the sun will eventually appear,
To reap a harvest, love you must sow,
God has greater for you in exchange for letting go! ~ JD

I'm a big fan of the tv drama Chicago Fire that comes on NBC. It shows the daily lives of fire fighters and paramedics as they save lives from burning buildings and other catastrophic incidents.
One particular episode a fireman on the rescue squad was trying to save a man trapped in his car hanging over the ledge of a parking garage 3 stories high. The victim had to let go of the steering wheel and grab hold of the fireman hand in order to be pulled to safety before the vehicle went over the ledge. In this case letting go saved someone's life.
This month marks two years since I started this blog and I thank everyone who takes time out of their day to read it. My hope is that it encourages you and inspires you. Thank you sincerely! Until next time, class dismiss!!!

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Well it is  the month of February and officially eight days from Valentines Day February 14th. This holiday is a celebration of love between couples married, engaged, or dating.
Many gifts are purchased at this time, especially chocolate, flowers, jewelry, and lingerie just to name a few. Of course not everyone is in a relationship, some people are single be it by choice or break up.
If you are reading this and in a relationship than your expression of love should reflect everyday besides Valentine's day.
For anyone who has ever been in a grown and mature relationship knows that it takes work.
You have two individuals a man and a woman unique in their own way coming together to form a bond. Many differences and similarities to mesh together. Her needs, his needs, her desires, his desires and so forth.
Love is at the core of any relationship but there also has to be respect, trust, communication, and committment in order to sustain a healthy relationship. Sometimes selfishness, insecurity, dishonesty, among many other things can be like a virus that infects a relationship causing strain and even heartache.
I have been in good and bad relationships in my life. There have been times I contributed to the turmoil in the relationship and other times it was the lady in my life. What experience has taught me is you can't change no one but yourself. Should you attempt otherwise it will be like beating your head against a brick wall and you have no right to complain about the headache!
Be prepared to love someone that is not flawless because neither are you. Before every kiss begins with KAY you must put in the work today! :-)

The bible says in Matthew 19:5, "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh."

Poetic Thought:

A bird in the hand beats two in the bush,
The labor of love will birth a blessing, you got to push,
In the purest form make love not lust,
The relationship garden cannot grow, must fertilize it with trust,
Be courageous, open your heart, to overcome committment fear,
How can two walk together, unless they agree, Where do we go from here? ~ JD

There is an ole school song by Stacy Lattisaw and Johnny Gill called "Where do we go from here".
 I listen to this song in my truck frequently because I like ole school R&B but also the significance of the song.  The synopsis of the song is about a man and a woman in a relationship that came to a crossroad and not sure if they should walk away or keep trying to make it work. Powerful song! At some point in life we all have had to ask this of ourselves and our significant other  Where do we go from here?  Until next time, class dismiss!!!

DOMESTIC WAR

There is a war going on here in the United States of America. I'm not talking in reference to the war on terror in the sense of foreigners dropping bombs or beheading people. That is happening and a travesty but I'm speaking about all the domestic violence here at home. In the news headlines another young brother NFL player is exposed in a video for punching his wife and knocking her unconscious. Another high profile NFL player is being indicted on child abuse charges against his four year old son. Locally here in Memphis, Tennessee where I reside, a husband killed his wife then himself, and a week later a firefighter killed his girlfriend. There also was a group of teenagers forming a hit mob going to the local grocery store and beating up and assaulting innocent people. As if that wasn't enough last month in August in Ferguson, Missouri an unarmed black male teenager was  killed in cold blood by a police officer. This has seem to become a trend since the volatile case in 2012 of Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman in the state of Florida.
All of this senseless violence is at epidemic proportions right now. There is so much hate consuming the hearts of men and women today.
Insecurities, betrayal, lack of trust, prejudice, along with other suppressed issues contribute to the behavior that is being exemplified  in our society. Our culture is becoming desensitized to the horrific acts of violence happening to women, children, and people in general.
It doesn't matter if the offender is a professional athlete, officer of the law, husband, father, mother, or teenager it is wrong all the way around to carry out such acts of violence. It has got to stop!!!


The bible says in Matthew 11:12, "From the days of John the Baptist until the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force."


Poetic Thought:


Sticks and stones do break bones,
The heart of a man is no longer right but left to go wrong,
Anger brings destruction like a consuming fire,
Integrity is low while immorality has risen higher,
Evil is a cancerous tumor manifested in the mind's core,
We wrestle against spiritual wickedness in this daily domestic war! ~JD


There is a movie I saw a year ago called The Purge. Since then the sequel The Purge Anarchy came out in July of this year. I saw both movies. The basis of the movies is a new age America where for one day in March for a period of 12 hours acts of violence is legal to commit including murder and people wouldn't be held accountable for their actions. The movie is intriguing but subliminally it sends a message of where our society could be heading. We must turn back to God and educate ourselves on conflict resolution instead of resorting to violence as a means to solve disputes or problems we all face. Pick up your cross and get on the battlefield to defeat the enemy in this domestic war! Until next time, class dismiss!!!

LIFE'S LABOR

Well we are coming off another Labor Day holiday. It is a time of reflection for the American worker be it blue collar or white collar. In order to produce anything or achieve something labor is required.
In life as a man or woman you will have to labor in order to have a better quality of life. If you are a parent you labor to provide for your children. If you are an entrepreneur you labor to ensure a successful business. If you are a mother you spent numerous of hours in labor to birth your child. With respect to reference of a mother in labor during the process of child birth, is similar to what you go through in life. The pains of life's labor come hard, sharp, and like a contraction it seems every few minutes literally and figuratively.
Now I am a man and I could never know what it actually feels like to be in labor to give birth like a woman, but I do know about life's labor.
Here are a few examples of labor pains in life: family disconnect (contraction), heartache (contraction), sickness (contraction), sin (contraction) along with many more. No man or woman is exempt from experiencing life's labor. If you endure the discomfort and pain by putting Jesus Christ first in your life then you will eventually birth a blessing like a mother does her child.

The bible says in Psalms 128:2, "You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours."

Poetic Thought:

The battlefield of the mind is fought everyday,
Stay parallel, your actions must line up with what you say,
Going through the basic training of life,
No matter the odds, be courageous, earn your stripes,
Be encouraged, embrace the Lord's favor,
Impact someone positively, reap the fruit of Life's Labor! ~ JD

There is a gospel song I love to listen to by William Murphy called "Its Working". This song invigorates my spirit and motivates my determination and drive to know that no matter what Grace and Favor is given to me by God. Here is the hook:

"This is my season for grace and for favor,
  This is my season to reap what I've sown,
  Everything is working together for my good"

 Remember this when life's labor seems unbearable, know that God has something for you on the other side of it. Until next time, class dismiss!!!

HEART ATTACK

Today many people are suffering from heart attacks. I'm not speaking the heart attack in the physical sense where your internal organ goes into cardiac arrest. I'm speaking about the heart that has the artery of your emotions flowing through it.
Many factors can attribute to you having a heart attack.  Some examples would be a disappointment or failure in something you are pursuing, a bad break up in a relationship with someone you love, or a disconnect with your family.
In the past and present I have experienced all three. The only way to persevere through it is giving it to GOD. Let's be real you might know this and can speak it all day to someone else but when it is you going through it is easier said than done. Emotions of hurt, anger, frustration can be like hot coals scorching you. As a man or woman in this journey of life you will surely experience adversity, setbacks, and heartache. Like the popular saying "What don't kill you makes you stronger."
Another important thing is to take a self assessment  of yourself and the things you may have done to contribute to your heart attack. Things you could have done better, mistakes that could have been avoided or not repeated, procrastinating instead of progressing forward.
Like with your physical heart you must get exercise, eat right, and take vitamins so it may function properly and not be high in cholesterol. You must do the same for your emotional heart in order for it to function properly. Exercise love,  feed it the word of GOD, take Vitamin A (Acceptance), Vitamin C (Compassion), Vitamin D (Discipline). At some point alot of us have been deficient in our heart regiment, I know I have and can tell when the emotional cholesterol in my heart is high.

The bible says in Psalm 147:3, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

Poetic Thought:

Life is a rollercoaster going up and down,
Sometimes you have to smile through an obvious frown,
Love is suppose to be nourished not starved,
Any conflict unresolved can leave scars,
Seek what is good in abundance not lack,
GOD is the specialist and will heal your heart attack! ~ JD

There is a gospel song that I love to listen to by Dewayne Woods called "Let Go".
This song is personal to me because I can feel it in my spirit and how it applies to my life. Here are some lyrics from the song that stands out:

"There is so much going on,
  Sometimes I can't find my way,
  And often times I struggle,
  Struggle from day to day"

  "As soon as I stop worrying,
   Worrying how the story ends,
    I let go and I let God
    Let God have his way"

Those are some powerful words! For anyone reading this blog and going through anything that troubles your heart, just know to give it over to GOD and he will allow it all to work out for your good. It may not seem like it at first, believe me I know, but just understand his timing is not our timing but he is always right on time! GOD bless you! Until next time, class dismiss!

SEX SEASON II

It's that time of year again. The weather has gotten warmer with spring here on the verge of summer. A year ago on this blog I talked about sex season. The examples of more revealing clothes, men displaying their physiques from putting time in the gym, women showing off their coke bottle plus figures from doing the same. Don't get it twisted sex stays in the air 24/7/365 but this particular time of year as summer approaches hormones are wild like Pac-Man. Like I stated before sex is a great thing created by God but like with anything man has tainted it to fit our own desires and agenda..
No longer is it sacred between a man and woman or husband and wife, but to whomever chooses and to whoever they choose it with, regardless of age or gender.
Sex is a free will choice whether it's in the confinement of marriage or an adult engaging in it outside of marriage. Lets be honest sex feels good, men we like it and women like it too. Some people desire for sex is higher than the next individual, and there is nothing wrong with either person. A high libido shouldn't mean a low morality when it comes to sex. An example of this would be porn. A well known reality star off a show that I watch decided to do a sex video. Yes I've seen a clip of it, when it first went viral on the internet like so many others. I'm not passing judgement on her, she is attractive, but her private business out for the public to view, diminished some class. The real issue is how it is going to affect her young daughter.
We are free to choose what we want to do but not free from the consequences of that choice.

The bible says in I Corinthians 6:12, "Everything is permissible me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything."

Poetic Thought:

The sweetest is that pink cookie,
All star in the game far from a rookie,
Addictive adrenaline rush,
The feeling of an orgasm as it bust,
Penetrate deep, intercourse is next,
Society with no restraint being a slave to sex. ~ JD

There is no secret most of us have engaged in sex at some point in our lives from adolescence to adulthood. You are entitled to your opinion, but I feel it should stay a private encounter. Be wise and either practice safe sex with a condom or abstain , or risk losing the game in this season of sex! Until next time, class dismiss!!!

TRUST

Trust is something that takes almost a lifetime to gain but only a short time to lose. It is the glue that binds relationships between men and women and all people in general.
If there is no trust between two individuals more likely than not the relationship will be broken. It is human nature to feel close to another person if you are able to trust them. This applies to family, friends, coworkers, or anyone you are willing to trust.
I have experienced in my own life trust being broken in my family and personal relationships. In my opinion trust goes hand in hand with respect. When it is gone, respect begins to evaporate as well.
Think back over your life when someone lost trust in you or you lost trust in someone, it wasn't a very good feeling. It quite possibly affected your emotions in a negative way and your perception of the individual changed or theirs changed about you.

The bible says in Psalm 118:8, "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man."

Poetic Thought:

Have direction either go left or stay right,
Collaborate with your attributes or let insecurities cause a fight,
Everyday is new mercy, a gift from the creator,
Life is like the candy, things happen now, some later,
Be filled with love so much you could bust,
When everything fails seek God because in him you can always trust! ~ JD


One of my favorite gangster movies is New Jack City. The main character Nino Brown was played by legendary actor Wesley Snipes and  his right hand man G Money played by great actor Allen Payne. A lot happened throughout their reign over the dope game in New York. But once the heat by the authorities got on them tough, their drug empire became infiltrated and crumbled. Trust between them evaporated and Nino end up killing G Money.
Trust is a rare commodity that is in high demand in today's society. My acronym for TRUST is
The Real Understanding Shines Through! Until next time, class dismiss!!!

NO DOUBT (1 YR. ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

One thing that many men and women face today is doubt. At some point in your life you have had doubt. Maybe you doubted an opportunity, healing, or something that would be in your favor. Doubt is an instrument used by the enemy to cause you not to trust in God or firmly believe in his promises to you.
Doubt can come from many sources. People close to you will doubt you sometimes such as family, a spouse or significant other, and friends.
It can be self doubt which is the worst form of doubt because if you don't believe in yourself no one else will. In my own life I've experienced doubt from others and rare moments of self doubt but I would always overcome it. Doubt from others didn't really matter to me because I felt no one is in position to judge the next person. The self doubt I immediately dismiss because I am driven to succeed no matter the odds.
Every man or woman must have confidence in order to combat doubt. If not, doubt will choke the life out of your dreams and aspirations!

The bible says in James 1:6,  "But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."

Poetic Thought:

Life is like spades, arrange your cards,
You hold the ace, so play smart,
Pursuit of happiness takes you through a maze,
Appreciate the good ones and learn from the bad days,
When you're up to bat, don't strike out,
Be determined to get your blessing, have no doubt! ~ JD

I like the producer and artist Pharrell Williams of the Neptunes. His new song "Happy" plays in my music rotation. It's a feel good song with a positive message. Here is a verse and hook from this song;

verse:  Here come bad news talking this and that (yeah!)
           Well, give me all you got, don't hold it back (yeah!)
           Well, I should probably warn you I'll be just fine (yeah!)
            No offense to you don't waste your time, here's why

hook:  Because I'm happy
          Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
           Because I'm happy
           Clap okay if you feel like happiness is the truth

If you are reading this blog, have life, then God is not through with you. Happy anniversary to my blog Real Life University that I started 1 year ago today. Thank you to everyone who read and subscribe to it and the best is yet to come that is no doubt! Until next time, class dismiss!!!

STAYING POWER

These days very few men and women have staying power or in other words the stamina to go the distance. I am speaking in regards to spiritual and emotional staying power not only physical. A person's spiritual and emotional staying power will be tested when adversity strikes in its various forms. Examples can be; pressure at your job, conflict with a spouse or significant other, more bills than funds sufficient, division within your family, just to name a few.
As a man or woman residing in our flesh, our nature is to be defensive, shield ourselves from hurt, disappointment, or shame. Our inability to push through allows for the Lord's ability to give us the staying power to make it through.
I have learned time and time again in my own life this lesson. When anger and frustration infiltrated my spirit and threw my mind off focus, I had to go to God in prayer. That's when I receive direction, confirmation, and the stamina needed in order to see the blessing on the other side whatever obstacle was in my way.

When I work out in the gym, I go hard in my regiment. Precision in my reps and sets in order to build and strengthen my muscles. If I overwork my muscles or fail to properly stretch them, then muscle fatigue can set in causing me not to have maximum performance or stamina while working out.
The same goes in the spiritual, if you allow adversity to overwork your emotions, your faith will suffer fatigue and frustration will hinder you from the blessing that is on its way.
Speaking as a man staying power is not only important in the bedroom and gym but also in the spirit where the battle is waged for your soul daily!

The bible says in Galatians 6:9, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."

Poetic Thought:

Time moves forward never back,
You appreciate abundance when you've experienced lack,
Blessings or curses can fall like Niagara,
Prayers stand erect, spiritual Viagra,
Make the most of your daily 24 hours,
Go to the GNC (God Never Ceases) to give you staying power! ~ JD

I am huge fan of the movie series Rocky played by legendary actor Sylvester Stallone. I have the dvd box set Rocky, Rocky II , Rocky III, Rocky IV. I was watching Rocky II the other day, the rematch between Rocky and Apollo Creed  went the distance 15 rounds of intense battle between boxing Gladiators. Even though Apollo Creed was a superior boxer, it was Rocky's mental staying power that propelled him to victory  and becoming heavy weight champion.
That's how it is when you in the ring of life against adversity the enemy throws at you, go the distance, roll with the punches, trust God and you will come out victorious! Until next time, class dismiss!!!