Gun Violence in NYC

The amount of gun violence that has been plaguing NYC as of lately has been really crazy. Just the other day a 34 year-old, mother of twelve children, Zurana Horton, was gunned down right outside of a school in Brooklyn. She was pregnant and chose to shield her child and neighboring children close by. I wanted to take the time out of my day to make sure her name is remembered, because not everyone would protect others as opposed to looking for their own survival.

I could hate on Al Sharpton and his insatiable appetite to always be in front of the cameras with his permed hair and shiny-suit, but we need other warriors to step into the forefront and do something radical. Cut off your hair, throw your suit in the trash, and be among the people in the neighborhoods where the gun violence is taking place. Approach brothers still attached to the umbilical cord of the block. They don’t go further than they have to, so they’re always going to be there out in the open.

I’m sure authorities are aware of the origin of these weapons, but it’s not at the top of their to-do-list. I am hopeful, and will continue to push myself to do the things that I can do as individual. You do the same.

“Identity & Direction”

Fasting for three days in search for Identity & Direction; only consuming water or fresh, squeezed fruits. Keep me in your prayers, as I always keep you in my own.

A “Piece” of Me

If you know me and know my testimony/story, then you know that my father passed away when I was four years-old. He was a great man with struggles that still plague the hearts and minds of individuals today. As much hurt and pain as he caused I always focus on the light that shined so bright. He was a devout Muslim, who taught himself how to read, write, and speak Arabic. He had strong genes (I look like I could be his younger brother). Most of all he could paint very well.

When he was going through a rough patch one of my aunts, who resides in NYC, bought one of his paintings for $100. I confirmed the price with my mother, because family often holds grudges with their own. We speak ever so often, but she happened to call me just the other day. She’s doing some spring cleaning, and have her whole house painted. She said that she was going to get rid of the painting, and wanted to ask me first, since it was my father’s piece. Without hesitation I said of course. Before I could even say that, though, she said that she wanted $200, for what she paid for (*shaking my head*). I didn’t even think too much about, but told her I’ll have the money ready for her.

I’ve wanted that painting for a long time, because I knew she never appreciated it as much as I did. Before I leave this earth I’ll be sure to learn how to paint, so I can create a piece that I hope to pass down myself. Even though my aunt’s neighbor wanted it I would’ve done anything and everything to make sure I would obtain that painting. Once I get it I’ll be sure to post a picture of it. Money isn’t even an issue. I just want the piece of me returned has been missing for far too long.

NYC Marathon 2011

Like I said in my previous post I am not running this year, but I still run to stay in shape. I ran last year with these two ladies, and I would be remiss if I didn’t help them raise some money. It’s not easy raising $2,500 when you’re asking mostly family and friends. I’m not within the 1% of population that controls most of the wealth in this country, so it’s not all that easy. If you are able to please donate as much as you feel moved to donate to Maria A. Davis (internationally known HIV activist) and Victoria Carrera (Professional Trainer). They’re running for HarlemUnited, which is a community-based organization providing unique continuum of care. They integrate socially and economically disenfranchised people into a healthy and healing community. The majority of their clients are people living with HIV/AIDS. Stigma and barriers due to poverty, race, HIV status, sexual or gender identity are their enemies, but they are one of the few voices crying in the wilderness for those that are most often forgotten.

Please support my two strong sisters, and help support HarlemUnited:

– Maria A. Davis

– Victoria Carrera

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s a while…

Sorry for neglecting my wordpress blog, but I’ve been super busy. I’m energized with all the new ventures that I’m embarking on, so you’ll see updates a lot more frequent. I originally started this to help spread the word to all my family and friends when I ran in the 2010 NYC Marathon. I’m not doing it this year, but I will definitely do it next year. I will shout out a few of my good friends that continue to run. I’ll leave that for another post though. Until my next post all I can hope and pray for is to inspire and heal, if not someone else, then most definitely myself!