The Everlasting

Though time goes on, memories are ever lasting...imprinted on life and played in our hearts as we reflect on things past -- a smirk from a familiar stranger across the room reminds me of that friend (gone too soon), a sweet aroma lingering like grandma's timeless perfume (leaving a gentle comfort), or the way that glad child squints his eyes and smiles the way her father once had (as if he's there smiling back at you). Those are things that will never fade...everlasting impressions of those who remain...alive in our hearts and minds...living on and on in our spirit as do they...ever here...immortal in the memoir of time. Though their soul has transcended just beyond the veil...forever here and always it is through us the beauty of their spirit remains -- within the memorial of your heart.

Random Muse: In Remembrance of Jean-Michel Basquiat

Rollingout.com: 10-black-child-geniuses-you-should-know

Reflection: 2012

In theory, mankind is indeed experiencing a Revelation - literally and figuratively. From bitter political agendas, 'end of the world' prophecies, to the tragedies of Sandy Hook Elementary and Chenpeng Village Primary School in China -- 2012 (likewise the recent years before) has been tumultuous throughout.  As many expected, namely Christians, the world as we know it did not end. In regard to the Bible, I'm personally reminded of the seven seals. Seems the pale horse is riding, as hatred, greed, selfishness, and all manner of reckless abandon continues to metastasis throughout humanity -- trying to make its way into the heart of man.

I recall a quote I read recently in light of such events: a man by the name of Fred Rogers (1928-2003) once said, "When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." Her words are profound in its simplicity. These are dark times. Yet, remember for every shadow formed there is light. Just as Jesus himself wept -- crying out in misery on the mount -- many mourn and ask God why. Even so, at the dusk of ages God has not forsaken us.

Last but not least, as 2012 comes to a close I'm humbly reminded of how precious life is. Each day I attempt to guide my own soul through Christ who strengthens me, resist negative influences, and not allow the blinding bitterness of evil to dumb me down, kill my spirit, and cast it's shadow in my wake. I pray for discernment and the courage it takes to seek higher ground. As cliche as it is, it really does begin with the man in the mirror. For those of us still here, our purpose is not complete. If we want to better our family, neighborhood, schools...let's strive to be the positive change we'd like to see in the world, next year, and years to come.

Casual Bloggers Anonymous

Ahem *clears throat* um, my name is Cheryl and in case anyone hadn't noticed (cry for attention) I haven't written in months. OK. All jokes aside, this 30-something chick is back into the throws of college pursuing a new career. So with all that entails...long story short, blogging has taken a backseat to the books...err, as in third row in the mini van to be exact. At times I've felt guilt (direct your attention to exhibit A) about being a card carrying member of Casual Bloggers Anonymous...and then there's that novel I've written a whopping 3 pages into...but I digress. Overall, my main goal is to finish school so that's where 90% of my focus lies these days.  And who knows? I may even start a 'casual' blog about it! *wink wink* Meanwhile, I received an impeccably timed invitation to guest blog (I was hype) from one of my favorite bloggers! Tampa's own Clark Brooks is not only a darling but writes a witty blog guaranteed to start your day off with a laugh or two.  Be sure to check him out, along with a few words from yours truly. Ridiculously inconsistent trickle of consciousness: Today's guest author: Cheryl Williams 

It was the summer of 1986.  My family was the first black family to live on this street, in this "neck of the woods", since God knows when. One of the white families who neighbored us, came by and introduced themselves. They seemed friendly and I quickly made friends with their daughters. I even remember the fresh baked cookies they brought which my mother refused to let me eat. She did not trust strangers bearing gifts. Then one fine day someone left a particularly exciting gift... lit papers left flaming in the summer breeze alongside the ditch in front our house. 

Fast forward twenty-some odd years; this area (including the county as a whole) is more diverse. You'd think they'd be used to use by now. Yet in still, every now and again someone with ill intent, drives pass and deliberately throws their fast food wrappers/trash into my parent's lawn. A solemn reminder that "you're kind ain't welcome 'round here." Last month, during the night someone bashed in their new mailbox. That hadn't happened in years... but it too was nothing new. Racism is nothing new. In fact, it's and issue all Americans inevitably experience in their lifetime. It's better than it used to be but still lurks like a cancer, seeking anywhere it can infect society -- a constant reminder that some cannot stand to see others prospering. In their eyes you are less than human and hence do not deserve "certain inalienable rights".  

However, nothing could be further from the truth.  As far as my parents are concerned, they are good, hardworking people who have EARNED everything they own, don't judge a man by his roots but his deeds, and sought a wholesome community to prosper, raise, and educate their children within. To add insult to injury, my father is a disabled American veteran who fought for this country, survived the 60's, and paid his dues ten times over. Yet, small minded, narcissistic, sociopaths disrespect him simply because he was born black. He is a man with pride and stands tall. Each time he's repairs another vandalized mailbox he's says, "they'll never change."  

I understand his resolve, and it's times like these I reflect and wonder where society is headed. Is he right? Maybe I'm naive, but I wholeheartedly believe race relations will continue to get better in this country and abroad in spite a few neanderthals. Prejudices of any sort will never be eradicated but milestones have been made as mankind evolves.  Meanwhile, its the former that breaks and tests the heart as I seek reasons not to despise those who hate. God help. Some day race will not nearly matter as much as the content of one's character.  I once wrote a sentiment that I now return to, "many desire a life free of pain and persecution; yet if we are to truly live, it is to do so in spite of it."  In spite of these isolated incidences, they have no regrets as life here has been pleasant overall.