POEM: Seeing Red

Time changes
and we are just as fickle
so even if we are tickled
we don't laugh anymore
because sometimes we are sore
and other times we may
have a score to settle
but don't get caught
in the nettle
or get burnt by the kettle
cause the pot's bottom is also black
and when we act slack
we often times do not
see that we lack
manners and discipline
but these negative twists
can spin
but you can win

you have to think ahead
and refrain from seeing red
for every little thing
if you have to - sing
and dance a little too
because you can't take it all on
and while this plays
like a song
you have to admit when
you are wrong
let go
and move on

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Taking on Challenges - Go For It

I am a sucker for a challenge. I just can't resist. I love to conquer what others think is difficult and I don't taking it on head first. I guess I am kind of a thrill seeker and I do get bored fast. However, my aim is always to complete a project. I'm working in my yard right now and it is hard work but I see progress which I am proud of. I am doing several special projects at work including one which had to be put on hold - but little by little I am getting there.

I really do believe in taking small steps to meet the big goal, and I see the results of that daily. I do get frustrated along the way but I have accepted that I can't change everything and everybody. Sometimes, you just have to let things fall apart for things to be fixed. I smile at those moments. While it may seem conniving, I accepts when certain things are beyond me. My challenges that I take on- I am on a mission to conquer.

Now don't get the bright idea that I will take on the challenge that you want to give me because it doesn't work like that. You take on yours and ask for help if you have any challenges - not because you are lazy. Can't stand people who give up before they try - pet peeve. I do know when it is time to give up - because some things are better left alone or unsaid.

I am going to continue on my little projects and do the best that I can to be a good citizen and good public servant.

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Inaction is not the Answer

I went to a policy workshop the other day and it was said that policy includes the action or inaction taken in relation to a problem. I am a publicofficer and the "inaction" part makes me smile. Actually, even in my personal life, I can see that inaction causes situations to become the norm. If I see my child doing something wrong, and I don't address it, the child will think that particular behavior or action is okay. I see it more when you get those reactions that "others are doing it so why can't I".

This lack of action is definitely not a good thing and it permeates the community. Somehow, we just don't like to address issues because of relationships. However, something has to give. My children will tell you that I will address their bad behaviors as soon as I can. If I don't, then they will go into the world feeling that no one should correct them. Where do people who think that way end up?

A lot of the lawlessness and slackness in the world can be attributed to the lack of inaction to address problems in the home, in the schools and in the workplace. I saw a situation where a student was hit by an object by another. The student who was hit hurled an expletive and was reprimanded and suspended. The student who hurled the object was not reprimanded in any way. Great action for the expletive but inaction for throwing the object.

I encourage you to take positive action where you have the power to. If you are not in a power position, then please bring attention to the issue.

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Songs to "Keep On" Your Playlist - Third World, 2Pac, Curtis Mayfield and Sounds of Blackness

There are four (4) songs that will always stay in my playlist. These songs bring a positive message about keeping it together.

"Optimistic" - Sounds of Blackness
"You can win as long as you keep your head to the sky". Can you ask for a more positive message? This song was released in 1991 when I was still in high school and BET was the link to black music. I always loved how Sounds of Blackness performed in their videos with such a unified presence. "Be Optimistic!"

"Keep Your Head to the Sky" - Third World

Third World is a reggae band which is internationally known and has released countless hits. This song, which was released in 1991, is mellow and beautifully performed. The hook is simply the song title which reminds us that we should keep a positive mindset.

"Keep Your Head Up" - 2Pac
"Keep your head up ... and don't let up" is the hook on this powerful song, which is one of 2Pac's most positive songs. His lyrical finesse and passion for the people came out in this song. It was released in 1993 and samples Zapp's "Be Alright".

"Keep on Keeping On" - Curtis Mayfield
This song is two decades older than the others listed. Curtis Mayfield's talent was truly a gift to music. He has countless hits but beings that message of keeping the faith. This song was sampled by two artists, L.E.G.A.C.Y. and Freeway.

Anyone who knows me or reads this blog will know that I love music from different times and genres. I love music with a positive message and these four songs have that. Each song literally tells you to keep it together and these days, we need more of this type of music over the some of the stuff on the airwaves. Keep your head up!

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Music Video: Imo - "Life Line"

Coming out of the British Virgin Islands: "Life Line" by Imo! Enjoy!

Starting to write .... backspace ..... restart

More than once I have started writing a blog entry, and I would delete it. Sometimes I do not feel that it is the right timing, and other times, I just do not want to expound. There is a lot going on - locally, regionally and internationally - and it impacts us all in one way or the other.

The purpose of this blog is not to dwell on the negative, but to share poetry and personal experiences, inspire positive change, share tips and other noteworthy thoughts and to make you smile. There might be one or two vent moments in there too, because venting can be good for the soul!

This blog was actually started as an avenue for me to improve my writing and also to build a repertoire of work. I actually just spelled repertoire correctly on the first try! Proud Moment! 

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Giving and Taking Correction ... Not an Easy Road

On my Linette - Inspire VI Facebook page, I recently made a comment about taking correction. Giving correcting directives is not the easiest thing either. Sometimes, you have to build the courage to talk to loved ones, co-workers and friends to tell them that they are doing something wrong. It doesn't matter what level you are at because having to tell someone that what they have been doing for years is wrong can be daunting.

There's no easy way to do it. Sometimes, it comes out nice and other times it won't. The best thing is not to hold things in and try to speak about the behaviors or concerns early - regardless which team member it is - family, friend etc. I guess it's easier to speak to children but we have to be so careful because our behaviors better not reflect what the reprimand is about. The Lord knows I try!

I would want to scream sometimes but having a vent moment with a friend helps. What helps is to know that I am not the only one facing the problem. It's not that we are celebrating mediocrity or bad behavior, but it will be mutual discussion about solving the problem.

In terms of taking correction - take it. Of course, you have to first accept that you are wrong. I'm not always right - but I know when I am wrong and when I am right. It gets harder if you feel like you're getting thrown under the bus. Been there - Done that!!!!!! The bus runs permanently in my alley ... and that's ok. I want to be in leadership and these are some of the things that you have to deal with.

I am working on taking my correction without remorse. Of course, there's always that condescending person or the petty peever who is going to find ulterior motives in everything! My God - they are not the easiest people to deal with. As we Caribbean do....STRUPES! Give me faith, dear Lord!!!!

I am working on me daily! I am moving forward every day! I am improving me and my situations consistently!

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