My Dear Friends,
Some things about life are too good to keep to one-self. Such is the Inspiration I
received from my daughter about "Music". All my life, I've loved & listened to music and I've since forced that love of music on my children. Long road trips from South-Florida to Boston,covering more than 1,000 miles one way, with only plenty of various types of music and some stops to "wee-wee" and buy "McDonald's" looks like it's starting to pay-off. "MOLAYO" wrote & submitted this essay yesterday. But, I had her explain and rewrite her thoughts again. I'll stop my "ranting" and share what she wrote :
"HOW TO WRITE A SONG by Molayo.V.Sobande"
FIRST, YOU SIT DOWN IN A CHAIR AND RELAX . NOW, YOU TAKE THE INSPIRATION THAT YOU HAVE AND TURN IT INTO IMAGINATION.
SECOND, YOU USE A LOT OF CREATIVITY. NOW, YOU'RE READY TO MAKE A SONG. YOU USE THE INSPIRATION, IMAGINATION AND CREATIVITY AND EXPRESS THEM INTO WORDS. AFTER, TRY TO MAKE YOUR OWN??"BEAT". "BEAT" STANDS FOR VERY FUN CREATIVITY. THE BEST PART ABOUT "BEAT" IS, YOU DON'T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING. IT IS JUST ABOUT HAVING FUN AND BEING CREATIVE. THEN, THERE'S "RHYTHM" . "RHYTHM" STANDS FOR YOUR INSPIRATION OR IMAGINATION ABOUT SOMETHING. THE BEST PART ABOUT "RHYTHM" IS, IT GUIDES AND LEADS THE "BEAT" ON IT'S OWN PATH. IT MAKES THE "BEAT" SOUND MUCH BETTER. SO, YOU PUT ALL THE PARTS TOGETHER AND YOU HAVE YOUR SONG. BEFORE I FORGET, HAVE EFFORT,PATIENCE, TRY YOUR BEST,HAVE DETERMINATION AND HAVE FUN ! My goodness, this 8 yr old blew me away. She made me feel so stupid since music runs in my blood and I've loved music way before she was born. Yet, she helped me put it all together . Two of her teachers keeps saying they wish she can be cloned. I hope they like this piece and??I hope you guys enjoy it. Much Blessings In The New Year !!!
Yours Truly,
TOLA
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Seasons Greetings,The Kennedys, Marlon- Jackson & 'The Motherland Project', Music e.t.c "
Dear Loved Ones,
Long, Long Time Indeed ! i thought i'd give everyone a "little" break. But so much is going on in our world for me to continue to stay silent. So,here i go again with some "observations".
As 2009 comes to a close, i'd like to say Goodbye & Thank You To The Kennedy Family, especially, the four amazing Brothers who are no longer with us. As a Man, Father & Human of African-descent, i owe my freedom & Love of America largely to the likes of "Teddy" Kennedy (i trust President OBAMA shares my sentiment). I still remember like yesterday when "MANDELA" visited my former hometown of Boston. I know i've said it before,but, kindly pick up TED- KENNEDY's newly released Memoir ( TRUE COMPASS ).
Moving along, for lovers of soulful music, i strongly recommend a newly released C.D- "All Star Tribute in Honour of Frankie- Beverly & Maze". Many folks can't seem to understand why "Frankie" has never won a single Grammy. The R&B Band last released a C.D back in 1993, but they tour the U.S & the World almost every year, selling out venues. I give credit to some new artists that did their best in trying to belt-out different songs by "Frankie-Beverly & Maze" on the Tribute C.D . They include MUSIQ SOULCHILD, KEM, LEDISI, JOE (love Joe), MINT-CONDITION (love the guys from PRINCE, JIMMY-JAM & TERRY-LEWIS' hometown of Minneapolis),AVANT, MARY.J.BLIGE e.t.c .
I'm also Grateful to the Almighty because i made four memorable trips to Africa this year,thus, outdoing my previous record of three yearly humanitarian trips since 2001. Yes, i've lost much money in the process,but my life has been touched and i hope i succeeded in touching a few lives. How can i forget watching several matches LIVE at The Lovely Abuja National Stadium (specifically the National Team against TUNISIA in the 2nd to last game for S.Africa 2010 & The U-17 Team as Nigeria played host to the World in The FIFA U-17 Tounament)?. One never knows what to expect from Nigeria's "SUPER EAGLES" ( they will easily give you a Heart Attack if you have a weak heart). The Country compares to Brazil in terms of producing naturally gifted Soccer players, but,lack of preparation,funding and "fire brigade approach" remains Nigeria's "fumbling point". However, i must warn the world about the Country's U-17 Team ( the players have probably been picked-up and spread out all over clubs in Europe by now). Anyone who needs to appreciate or understand Soccer should go and watch Nigeria's games in the recently concluded Tournament in Nigeria. It is a very good way of getting ready for S.Africa 2010 in the summer. We will mark "MADIBA's" 93rd(?) Birthday on July 14 during the World Cup too ( start practicing how to blow your "Voo-voo-zela" as soon as possible. Call the Nigerian or S. African Embassy if you don't know what it means).
Finally, i'm not big into watching T.V & especially not into so-called reality shows. But, A & E has a series on The Jackson Family Dynasty ( REST IN PEACE MICHAEL! ). Some people are going around saying The Brothers are trying to cash-in on MICHAEL's death. Then again, other folks are making lots of money already,so, why not The Great One's Brothers. Anyway, i am extremely excited about Marlon- Jackson's project dubbed "The Motherland Project". Unfortunately, we have individuals in Nigeria who have made ( or pardon me, Stole ) enough money to do the same laudable project the Man is about to undertake. I've always talked about the need to link America directly with Nigeria & Africa and i've expended my little resources towards that end. So, i am extremely excited about what is bound to happen. I Congratulate The Lagos-State Government, Marlon- Jackson and All involved with this laudable project. I can go on and talk about an event i was Blessed to be a part of in Lagos on my last trip : 'An Evening With The Chief Commander (Evang.) OBEY", organized by CITY PEOPLE MAGAZINE. It was the least the folks involved with the popular Nigerian Socialite magazine could do after eroneously publishing that the NIGERIAN LIVING LEGEND is Blind. They have since retracted that rubbish of a story. i will try and make sure their Senior Editor reads this and maybe we will become friends in the future. Nevertheless, "COMMANDER" dazzled all of us that happened to be lucky enough to make the event. MERRY CHRISTMAS, SEASONS GREETINGS & HAPPY 2010 TO ALL OF YOU & YOUR FAMILIES. MORE LOVE NEXT YEAR & BEYOND SINCE OUR WORLD NEEDS IT. PEACE !!!
MUCH LOVE,
Dr. Olutola- ('Tola)- Sobande & Family
Long, Long Time Indeed ! i thought i'd give everyone a "little" break. But so much is going on in our world for me to continue to stay silent. So,here i go again with some "observations".
As 2009 comes to a close, i'd like to say Goodbye & Thank You To The Kennedy Family, especially, the four amazing Brothers who are no longer with us. As a Man, Father & Human of African-descent, i owe my freedom & Love of America largely to the likes of "Teddy" Kennedy (i trust President OBAMA shares my sentiment). I still remember like yesterday when "MANDELA" visited my former hometown of Boston. I know i've said it before,but, kindly pick up TED- KENNEDY's newly released Memoir ( TRUE COMPASS ).
Moving along, for lovers of soulful music, i strongly recommend a newly released C.D- "All Star Tribute in Honour of Frankie- Beverly & Maze". Many folks can't seem to understand why "Frankie" has never won a single Grammy. The R&B Band last released a C.D back in 1993, but they tour the U.S & the World almost every year, selling out venues. I give credit to some new artists that did their best in trying to belt-out different songs by "Frankie-Beverly & Maze" on the Tribute C.D . They include MUSIQ SOULCHILD, KEM, LEDISI, JOE (love Joe), MINT-CONDITION (love the guys from PRINCE, JIMMY-JAM & TERRY-LEWIS' hometown of Minneapolis),AVANT, MARY.J.BLIGE e.t.c .
I'm also Grateful to the Almighty because i made four memorable trips to Africa this year,thus, outdoing my previous record of three yearly humanitarian trips since 2001. Yes, i've lost much money in the process,but my life has been touched and i hope i succeeded in touching a few lives. How can i forget watching several matches LIVE at The Lovely Abuja National Stadium (specifically the National Team against TUNISIA in the 2nd to last game for S.Africa 2010 & The U-17 Team as Nigeria played host to the World in The FIFA U-17 Tounament)?. One never knows what to expect from Nigeria's "SUPER EAGLES" ( they will easily give you a Heart Attack if you have a weak heart). The Country compares to Brazil in terms of producing naturally gifted Soccer players, but,lack of preparation,funding and "fire brigade approach" remains Nigeria's "fumbling point". However, i must warn the world about the Country's U-17 Team ( the players have probably been picked-up and spread out all over clubs in Europe by now). Anyone who needs to appreciate or understand Soccer should go and watch Nigeria's games in the recently concluded Tournament in Nigeria. It is a very good way of getting ready for S.Africa 2010 in the summer. We will mark "MADIBA's" 93rd(?) Birthday on July 14 during the World Cup too ( start practicing how to blow your "Voo-voo-zela" as soon as possible. Call the Nigerian or S. African Embassy if you don't know what it means).
Finally, i'm not big into watching T.V & especially not into so-called reality shows. But, A & E has a series on The Jackson Family Dynasty ( REST IN PEACE MICHAEL! ). Some people are going around saying The Brothers are trying to cash-in on MICHAEL's death. Then again, other folks are making lots of money already,so, why not The Great One's Brothers. Anyway, i am extremely excited about Marlon- Jackson's project dubbed "The Motherland Project". Unfortunately, we have individuals in Nigeria who have made ( or pardon me, Stole ) enough money to do the same laudable project the Man is about to undertake. I've always talked about the need to link America directly with Nigeria & Africa and i've expended my little resources towards that end. So, i am extremely excited about what is bound to happen. I Congratulate The Lagos-State Government, Marlon- Jackson and All involved with this laudable project. I can go on and talk about an event i was Blessed to be a part of in Lagos on my last trip : 'An Evening With The Chief Commander (Evang.) OBEY", organized by CITY PEOPLE MAGAZINE. It was the least the folks involved with the popular Nigerian Socialite magazine could do after eroneously publishing that the NIGERIAN LIVING LEGEND is Blind. They have since retracted that rubbish of a story. i will try and make sure their Senior Editor reads this and maybe we will become friends in the future. Nevertheless, "COMMANDER" dazzled all of us that happened to be lucky enough to make the event. MERRY CHRISTMAS, SEASONS GREETINGS & HAPPY 2010 TO ALL OF YOU & YOUR FAMILIES. MORE LOVE NEXT YEAR & BEYOND SINCE OUR WORLD NEEDS IT. PEACE !!!
MUCH LOVE,
Dr. Olutola- ('Tola)- Sobande & Family
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
"On A Serious Note: A Nigerian Suicide Bomber? A Cause For Global Concern-(Blast From Recent Past)"
Dear Friends,
It's been three plus days since the horrible news broke out. I found the news so unbelievable that by the second day, i had to try to reach C.N.N since no Nigerian official had made any T.V appearances.
As each day goes by, i'm afraid many fellow Americans (along with people around the world who will at best tell you Nigeria is in Africa) are coming to believe Nigerians are turning into a bunch of Terrorists who must be watched carefully. Well, my three decades here in America has convinced me that Nigeria remains America's BEST Friend in Africa and perhaps, one of Her Best Friends around the World. During moments like this, the easiest thing to do when you are of Nigerian-descent is to be quiet and watch every step. I've always tried to watch my steps,but, for the sake of millions of Peace-Loving Nigerians, i cannot afford the luxury of staying silent. I am fully convinced that the reason the "Nigerian Bomber-Wanna-Be" failed is because it is no mission to assign a Nigerian. By God's grace, the young Man's failure should help close in on those selling the ideology of hate. President OBAMA has done much to reduce the hate that many around the Muslim World felt after the mistakes made in the aftermath of 9/11 . But, Nigeria, the most populous Nation in Africa, has about 45% Muslims who are mostly friendly towards their fellow Christian Countrymen & The U.S.A. The Country has occasionally had it's share of brutal fighting between Christians & Muslims. But, perhaps The U.S can dialogue with credible folks in Nigeria who know much about these issues. Many around the World ( especially here in America) have no idea when & how Nigeria dealt a blow to the "Boko Haram" Muslim Extremists. They do not have any idea of how the Country is managing the on-going Niger-Delta crisis. It does not help that Nigeria's President is on a sick Bed in Saudi-Arabia at this very sensitive moment. I believe you have some ideas to delve into here. (Research Folks) !
My guess regarding what will happen after this is that Nigeria ,as the major power (population, mineral & human resources aplenty) in Africa will have to put it's house in order. Good Leadership is needed now more than any other time in the Country's History. The World should not fear Nigerians because they are generally afraid of death. For Nigerians, dying in one's sleep is tough enough. Blowing themselves and others up is simply Un-Nigerian (too many are simply afraid of blowing a Bicycle up). As a traveler, i know both Airports ( in Lagos & Schipol in Amsterdam) very well. Before you can get on a flight from Amsterdam and other European Capitals to travel to The U.S, folks in Nigeria & Europe really go all out to check every passenger (never mind the unintelligent comment made by a C.N.N "Expert" who claims Nigerians wear a funny, loose-fitting clothing that may prevent bombing equipment from detection). I truly hope C.N.N will soon get an articulate Nigerian on air to help further shed some light on this rather sensitive issue. NIGERIANS ARE REALLY HEARTBROKEN ABOUT THIS ISSUE. THEY LOVE AMERICANS &, BLOWING-UP AMERICANS IS SIMPLY UNTHINKABLE. AGAIN, IF A NIGERIAN CAN ATTEMPT THIS HORRIBLE ACT, OUR WORLD IS IN SERIOUS TROUBLE. I am now fully convinced that the earlier the world silences the masterminds of the 9/11 attack, along with the development of genuine, mutually benefiting dialogue with the Muslim world, the better our world will be. Any attempt by naive, clueless fellow Americans to go after Nigerians struggling to LIVE will only make matters worse. THE WORLD SHOULD AT LEAST GIVE SOME CREDIT TO THE "NIGERIAN-TALIBAN's" FATHER WHO DID HIS UTMOST TO ALERT AMERICAN AUTHORITIES IN NIGERIA ABOUT HIS BRAIN-WASHED SON. AND TO AL-QAIDA OR TALIBAN, WHEN YOU SEND A NIGERIAN TO CONDUCT THIS HORRIBLE CRIME, YOU ARE BOUND FOR FAILURE BECAUSE NIGERIANS ARE KNOWN AROUND THE WORLD TO LOVE LIFE. WE CAN EVEN SAY THAT NIGERIANS WILL NOT WAIT TO GET TO HEAVEN BEFORE MEETING THEIR "QUEENS" (IN PARADISE?) WHEN THEY KNOW THEY CAN EXHAUST SUCH SEARCH HERE ON EARTH (TRAGICOMICALLY-SPEAKING,OF COURSE). It Sure Looks Like The Masterminds Of Terrorism Continue To Perfect Their Strategies After Each & Every New Device The Civilized World Comes Up With To Keep The Flying Public Safe. HEAVEN HELP US ALL. NONETHELESS, I WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY 2010 !!!
Sincerely,
Dr. O. ('Tola)- Sobande ( S.Florida)
It's been three plus days since the horrible news broke out. I found the news so unbelievable that by the second day, i had to try to reach C.N.N since no Nigerian official had made any T.V appearances.
As each day goes by, i'm afraid many fellow Americans (along with people around the world who will at best tell you Nigeria is in Africa) are coming to believe Nigerians are turning into a bunch of Terrorists who must be watched carefully. Well, my three decades here in America has convinced me that Nigeria remains America's BEST Friend in Africa and perhaps, one of Her Best Friends around the World. During moments like this, the easiest thing to do when you are of Nigerian-descent is to be quiet and watch every step. I've always tried to watch my steps,but, for the sake of millions of Peace-Loving Nigerians, i cannot afford the luxury of staying silent. I am fully convinced that the reason the "Nigerian Bomber-Wanna-Be" failed is because it is no mission to assign a Nigerian. By God's grace, the young Man's failure should help close in on those selling the ideology of hate. President OBAMA has done much to reduce the hate that many around the Muslim World felt after the mistakes made in the aftermath of 9/11 . But, Nigeria, the most populous Nation in Africa, has about 45% Muslims who are mostly friendly towards their fellow Christian Countrymen & The U.S.A. The Country has occasionally had it's share of brutal fighting between Christians & Muslims. But, perhaps The U.S can dialogue with credible folks in Nigeria who know much about these issues. Many around the World ( especially here in America) have no idea when & how Nigeria dealt a blow to the "Boko Haram" Muslim Extremists. They do not have any idea of how the Country is managing the on-going Niger-Delta crisis. It does not help that Nigeria's President is on a sick Bed in Saudi-Arabia at this very sensitive moment. I believe you have some ideas to delve into here. (Research Folks) !
My guess regarding what will happen after this is that Nigeria ,as the major power (population, mineral & human resources aplenty) in Africa will have to put it's house in order. Good Leadership is needed now more than any other time in the Country's History. The World should not fear Nigerians because they are generally afraid of death. For Nigerians, dying in one's sleep is tough enough. Blowing themselves and others up is simply Un-Nigerian (too many are simply afraid of blowing a Bicycle up). As a traveler, i know both Airports ( in Lagos & Schipol in Amsterdam) very well. Before you can get on a flight from Amsterdam and other European Capitals to travel to The U.S, folks in Nigeria & Europe really go all out to check every passenger (never mind the unintelligent comment made by a C.N.N "Expert" who claims Nigerians wear a funny, loose-fitting clothing that may prevent bombing equipment from detection). I truly hope C.N.N will soon get an articulate Nigerian on air to help further shed some light on this rather sensitive issue. NIGERIANS ARE REALLY HEARTBROKEN ABOUT THIS ISSUE. THEY LOVE AMERICANS &, BLOWING-UP AMERICANS IS SIMPLY UNTHINKABLE. AGAIN, IF A NIGERIAN CAN ATTEMPT THIS HORRIBLE ACT, OUR WORLD IS IN SERIOUS TROUBLE. I am now fully convinced that the earlier the world silences the masterminds of the 9/11 attack, along with the development of genuine, mutually benefiting dialogue with the Muslim world, the better our world will be. Any attempt by naive, clueless fellow Americans to go after Nigerians struggling to LIVE will only make matters worse. THE WORLD SHOULD AT LEAST GIVE SOME CREDIT TO THE "NIGERIAN-TALIBAN's" FATHER WHO DID HIS UTMOST TO ALERT AMERICAN AUTHORITIES IN NIGERIA ABOUT HIS BRAIN-WASHED SON. AND TO AL-QAIDA OR TALIBAN, WHEN YOU SEND A NIGERIAN TO CONDUCT THIS HORRIBLE CRIME, YOU ARE BOUND FOR FAILURE BECAUSE NIGERIANS ARE KNOWN AROUND THE WORLD TO LOVE LIFE. WE CAN EVEN SAY THAT NIGERIANS WILL NOT WAIT TO GET TO HEAVEN BEFORE MEETING THEIR "QUEENS" (IN PARADISE?) WHEN THEY KNOW THEY CAN EXHAUST SUCH SEARCH HERE ON EARTH (TRAGICOMICALLY-SPEAKING,OF COURSE). It Sure Looks Like The Masterminds Of Terrorism Continue To Perfect Their Strategies After Each & Every New Device The Civilized World Comes Up With To Keep The Flying Public Safe. HEAVEN HELP US ALL. NONETHELESS, I WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY 2010 !!!
Sincerely,
Dr. O. ('Tola)- Sobande ( S.Florida)
Monday, February 1, 2010
"Special Tribute To The Late Ted- Kennedy (Blast From The Past)"
Date: 13 October 2009 09:46
Subject: "MY SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE LATE SENATOR TED- KENNEDY & THE KENNEDY FAMILY"
To:
Dear Loved Ones,
Long Time No Chat ! As you all can imagine, i've been keeping track of "some" things like the rest of
you. But, let's save all that for some other time ( i simply refuse to bore you too much with some of the
most amazing events unfolding before our very eyes ). I mean, who cares about OBAMA's Nobel Peace
Prize? About Health Insurance For All In The Most Powerful Nation & Democracy In The World ? ( Please,
go and watch "Michael- Moore's" latest movie titled ; CAPITALISM : A LOVE STORY ! ), About my fellow
American Republicans (majority of them anyway ) going "bananas" at the mention of BARACK, HUSSEIN
or OBAMA ( they don't even bother to call him President anymore. Perhaps some did this around
Inauguration ). I will say this, America is looked upon as The Free World's True Leader and little folks like
me will continue to remind my fellow Americans of this Special Responsibility. I am very hopeful since i
have American friends of all ethnic and religious backgrounds who will not let America's Bright Light be
put out by a few ( or lots of ? ) hateful folks who seem bereft of ideas.
Moving on, i trust most of you have already finished reading Late Sen. Ted- Kennedy's memoir : TRUE
COMPASS" ? If you haven't, i urge you to STOP whatever you are doing (never mind how beautiful or
important it is) and go to your nearest Bookstore or the "net" and get a copy. Upon arriving at J.F.K Airport
in N.Y about a month ago from Africa, one of the first things that caught my Soccer-Loving eyes was the lovely Book .
Without asking any questions, i quickly grabbed a copy for myself ( after all, my Doctoral Program is over
and i can get back to enjoying reading about the Great Ones who sacrificed so much to make our world a
better place). The question is not what is in the Book ? Rather, it is what is not in it ? In fact, i returned to
the Bookstore a few days ago to buy 10 more copies for some of my MENTORS back in Nigeria.
I strongly recommend that anyone aspiring to positions of power in any Country (especially all lawmakers &
Politicians in Africa's sleeping Giant-NIG. ) must read this Book. It will surely help them understand what it
means to be a "LEADER". What A FAMILY ? What A LEGACY ? As i search to build a bridge between
America and Nigeria/ Africa, i find myself believing that my dream may not prove to be elusive if i just
carry on with my Prayers and Die-hard spirit. I once wrote in a "piece" that i have a Love-hate relationship
with my former hometown of Boston. As it turns out, even The Kennedys (especially Teddy who managed
to live longer than the other Brothers who died way too young) feel the same way. All the things i did not
understand about the Civil Rights Movement ( which i watched my Late Senator Champion) and much
more were covered. World War II, Vietnam, Assassinations, Elections, Watergate scandal,
Chappaquiddick , The Biafran War In Nigeria e.t.c , e.t.c My Goodness ! The Book is a Special Gift from a
Man Of Steel who got to see it All Very Close. How Could I Ever Forget The Day "NELSON- MANDELA"
came to my Town (BOSTON)? Everyone knew he came to say a very Special Thank You to Bostonians
(especially Teddy & The Kennedys). They fought battles on behalf of those who could not win by
themselves. They brought out the humanity in many of our fellow citizens who weren't ready for "CHANGE".
"TEDDY" even helped The OBAMAS become The Very First African-American President & First Lady
(never mind the "spoilers"). I PRAY THAT TEDDY'S SOUL ( ALONG WITH THE OTHER KENNEDY FREEDOM FIGHTERS WHO SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR ALL HUMANITY) REST IN PEACE !
MUCH LOVE,
' Tola
P.S : I MUST USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO THANK FRIENDS & MENTORS WHO PRIVATELY
EXPRESS GRATITUDE TOWARDS MY RANDOM "RANT". THEY ARE HERE IN THE U.S.A,
IN EUROPE & AFRICA. I AM DEEPLY TOUCHED & HUMBLED BY YOUR GENUINE AND
HEARTFELT COMMENTS. ALL OF YOU , ALONG WITH MY LOVE FOR OUR COMMON
HUMANITY ARE THE REASONS WHY I "RELUCTANTLY" SHARE MY THOUGHTS. I AM
TRULY BLESSED TO BE A LITTLE PART OF YOUR LIVES !!!
Subject: "MY SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE LATE SENATOR TED- KENNEDY & THE KENNEDY FAMILY"
To:
Dear Loved Ones,
Long Time No Chat ! As you all can imagine, i've been keeping track of "some" things like the rest of
you. But, let's save all that for some other time ( i simply refuse to bore you too much with some of the
most amazing events unfolding before our very eyes ). I mean, who cares about OBAMA's Nobel Peace
Prize? About Health Insurance For All In The Most Powerful Nation & Democracy In The World ? ( Please,
go and watch "Michael- Moore's" latest movie titled ; CAPITALISM : A LOVE STORY ! ), About my fellow
American Republicans (majority of them anyway ) going "bananas" at the mention of BARACK, HUSSEIN
or OBAMA ( they don't even bother to call him President anymore. Perhaps some did this around
Inauguration ). I will say this, America is looked upon as The Free World's True Leader and little folks like
me will continue to remind my fellow Americans of this Special Responsibility. I am very hopeful since i
have American friends of all ethnic and religious backgrounds who will not let America's Bright Light be
put out by a few ( or lots of ? ) hateful folks who seem bereft of ideas.
Moving on, i trust most of you have already finished reading Late Sen. Ted- Kennedy's memoir : TRUE
COMPASS" ? If you haven't, i urge you to STOP whatever you are doing (never mind how beautiful or
important it is) and go to your nearest Bookstore or the "net" and get a copy. Upon arriving at J.F.K Airport
in N.Y about a month ago from Africa, one of the first things that caught my Soccer-Loving eyes was the lovely Book .
Without asking any questions, i quickly grabbed a copy for myself ( after all, my Doctoral Program is over
and i can get back to enjoying reading about the Great Ones who sacrificed so much to make our world a
better place). The question is not what is in the Book ? Rather, it is what is not in it ? In fact, i returned to
the Bookstore a few days ago to buy 10 more copies for some of my MENTORS back in Nigeria.
I strongly recommend that anyone aspiring to positions of power in any Country (especially all lawmakers &
Politicians in Africa's sleeping Giant-NIG. ) must read this Book. It will surely help them understand what it
means to be a "LEADER". What A FAMILY ? What A LEGACY ? As i search to build a bridge between
America and Nigeria/ Africa, i find myself believing that my dream may not prove to be elusive if i just
carry on with my Prayers and Die-hard spirit. I once wrote in a "piece" that i have a Love-hate relationship
with my former hometown of Boston. As it turns out, even The Kennedys (especially Teddy who managed
to live longer than the other Brothers who died way too young) feel the same way. All the things i did not
understand about the Civil Rights Movement ( which i watched my Late Senator Champion) and much
more were covered. World War II, Vietnam, Assassinations, Elections, Watergate scandal,
Chappaquiddick , The Biafran War In Nigeria e.t.c , e.t.c My Goodness ! The Book is a Special Gift from a
Man Of Steel who got to see it All Very Close. How Could I Ever Forget The Day "NELSON- MANDELA"
came to my Town (BOSTON)? Everyone knew he came to say a very Special Thank You to Bostonians
(especially Teddy & The Kennedys). They fought battles on behalf of those who could not win by
themselves. They brought out the humanity in many of our fellow citizens who weren't ready for "CHANGE".
"TEDDY" even helped The OBAMAS become The Very First African-American President & First Lady
(never mind the "spoilers"). I PRAY THAT TEDDY'S SOUL ( ALONG WITH THE OTHER KENNEDY FREEDOM FIGHTERS WHO SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR ALL HUMANITY) REST IN PEACE !
MUCH LOVE,
' Tola
P.S : I MUST USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO THANK FRIENDS & MENTORS WHO PRIVATELY
EXPRESS GRATITUDE TOWARDS MY RANDOM "RANT". THEY ARE HERE IN THE U.S.A,
IN EUROPE & AFRICA. I AM DEEPLY TOUCHED & HUMBLED BY YOUR GENUINE AND
HEARTFELT COMMENTS. ALL OF YOU , ALONG WITH MY LOVE FOR OUR COMMON
HUMANITY ARE THE REASONS WHY I "RELUCTANTLY" SHARE MY THOUGHTS. I AM
TRULY BLESSED TO BE A LITTLE PART OF YOUR LIVES !!!
"Path To Keeping U.S.A #1, MJJ's Legacy(His Kids) & More"
Dear Friends,
As many of you know, i care very much about two Countries (U.S.A & Nigeria)& i will continue to speak out on issues affecting both while i'm still able to breathe. Of course HAITI remains on my mind,but, i'll be saying more on HAITI very soon (God-willing or "Nsha Allah", as my Muslim friends would say).
Whenever i visit my old City of Boston, i always make a habit of visiting a newspaper stand in Harvard Square where you will find all sorts of current newspapers & magazines from all parts of the world. So, i repeated this routine about 2+ weeks ago while visiting my Brother & his lovely family. The weekend was the last before Boston "shocked" those who may not know much about that Great city that i love to hate. Boston & Massachusetts elected it's very first Republican Senator since 1963 ( or thereabout ). To make matters worse, it was The Late Great Ted - Kennedy's seat that the Democrats recklessly gave up. Then again, knowing Boston, it was bound to happen since it's progressives had succeeded in electing an African-American Governor and the State has kept two Democrats as Senators ( John- Kerry being the 2nd, the former Presidential Candidate whom i got to worship with at my Church during his campaign in S. Florida- Thanks to Chief Jimmie- Brown, my Pastor, Mentor & Retired Miami Police Chief).
Many so-called "Experts" have appeared on T.V offering all sorts of views about why Senator-elect Brown won and many on the "political right" have predicted that the Republicans are about to take over ( hopefully after "OBAMA" completes his first four years?). This issue leads yet again to the issue of RACE. See, my people in BOSTON are very sensitive to being labelled as RACIST. So, i sense they have allowed some movement towards the "Center" or "Left" ( folks in Europe & Africa will have to find out what Right,Left & Center in America means. Just know that you must RUN if you should meet "Mr. Rush- Limbaugh or Glen- Beck". They are "Right-Wingers" & Dangerous like Weapons Of Mass Destruction. I can see them both traveling to HAITI- In My Dreams). My prediction is the new guy will last if he is willing to vote against the wishes of his party once in a while, thus, voting for some "OBAMA" administration proposal instead of the "Just-Say-No" attitude of the present G.O.P bunch who obviously wants OBAMA to fail.
Moving along, upon studying current trends around the world in my travels and readings, i'll have to repeat what True Leading Experts on World events are saying. CHINA, INDIA & BRAZIL (to name just a few) are not engaged in any Wars and are busy building alliances all over the world, especially in Africa. I saw it during my visit to NEW-DELHI, INDIA about five years ago while on a speaking engagement and i have seen The Chinese & Indians in action in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation of about 171 million people. The three Countries named above used to be consumer Nations (like African Countries), but, they now produce and Export all over Africa where Western Powers used to dominate. On my last trip to Nigeria (Nov.'09), i was happy and saddened as i was taken on a tour of some amazing projects being co-ordinated by a handful of Chinese Citizens with Nigerians making up the bulk of the workforce. I still do not understand how they manage to communicate despite attempts by some to answer my question. I felt sad because Nigeria's official language is ENGLISH and it's citizens LOVE ALL THINGS AMERICAN ( especially Medications since NIGERIANS hate DEATH- "NEVER MIND THE UNDERWEAR BOMBER"). Unfortunately, i always sense timidity and lack of interest whenever Nigeria or Africa comes up in conversations with my fellow Americans. The Bottom line is sooner or later, Nigeria & Africa, with it's tremendous human & mineral resources, will eventually be developed. Those willing to play "ball" on the Continent ( with 53 very different Countries)will be the winners.
My prescription for America's present Economic downturn will be to seriously engage it's Friends in Africa(especially NIGERIA) while also embarking on a major Infracstructural Development here at home. We can all imagine a America with "Bullet Trains" criss-crossing the various states along with the job opportunities that will be generated. Remember, when you are up, the only way to go is Down. God-willing, America will stay up ( both in Moral & Economic Terms ).
Finally, i must close with The Late Great "Michael- Jackson" & His Amazing Kids. Much of America watched "The Grammys" this past Sunday Night and the organizers saved the Best for the final 20 - 30 minutes. "MAXWELL" & "ROBERTA- FLACK" dazzled ( a solo performance of "Pretty Wings" & a duet with the latter's collaboration with the Late Donny- Hathaway). In a Blessed Nation struggling constantly with the issue of RACE, I believe The Almighty ( All Religion Inclusive PLEASE) used "MJJ" and HIS PRECIOUS CAUCASIAN KIDS TO CONFUSE THE HECK OUT OF US (then again, i'm not included since i remain absolutely colour-blind). T.V Stations across America showed the less than 2 minutes eloquent speeches by "Michael's" older two Kids. I predict America will have to grow along with these amazing precious gifts in the years ahead. I predict they will help erase the hatred being spread by racists of all kinds. Michael's Music & His Kids will help spread the important message of LOVE all over the world. And To Our HAITIAN BROTHERS & SISTERS, "TAKE IT FROM ME, SOMEDAY WE WILL ALL BE FREE"- The LATE GREAT SOULFUL DONNY-HATHAWAY.
Much Love,
' Tola
As many of you know, i care very much about two Countries (U.S.A & Nigeria)& i will continue to speak out on issues affecting both while i'm still able to breathe. Of course HAITI remains on my mind,but, i'll be saying more on HAITI very soon (God-willing or "Nsha Allah", as my Muslim friends would say).
Whenever i visit my old City of Boston, i always make a habit of visiting a newspaper stand in Harvard Square where you will find all sorts of current newspapers & magazines from all parts of the world. So, i repeated this routine about 2+ weeks ago while visiting my Brother & his lovely family. The weekend was the last before Boston "shocked" those who may not know much about that Great city that i love to hate. Boston & Massachusetts elected it's very first Republican Senator since 1963 ( or thereabout ). To make matters worse, it was The Late Great Ted - Kennedy's seat that the Democrats recklessly gave up. Then again, knowing Boston, it was bound to happen since it's progressives had succeeded in electing an African-American Governor and the State has kept two Democrats as Senators ( John- Kerry being the 2nd, the former Presidential Candidate whom i got to worship with at my Church during his campaign in S. Florida- Thanks to Chief Jimmie- Brown, my Pastor, Mentor & Retired Miami Police Chief).
Many so-called "Experts" have appeared on T.V offering all sorts of views about why Senator-elect Brown won and many on the "political right" have predicted that the Republicans are about to take over ( hopefully after "OBAMA" completes his first four years?). This issue leads yet again to the issue of RACE. See, my people in BOSTON are very sensitive to being labelled as RACIST. So, i sense they have allowed some movement towards the "Center" or "Left" ( folks in Europe & Africa will have to find out what Right,Left & Center in America means. Just know that you must RUN if you should meet "Mr. Rush- Limbaugh or Glen- Beck". They are "Right-Wingers" & Dangerous like Weapons Of Mass Destruction. I can see them both traveling to HAITI- In My Dreams). My prediction is the new guy will last if he is willing to vote against the wishes of his party once in a while, thus, voting for some "OBAMA" administration proposal instead of the "Just-Say-No" attitude of the present G.O.P bunch who obviously wants OBAMA to fail.
Moving along, upon studying current trends around the world in my travels and readings, i'll have to repeat what True Leading Experts on World events are saying. CHINA, INDIA & BRAZIL (to name just a few) are not engaged in any Wars and are busy building alliances all over the world, especially in Africa. I saw it during my visit to NEW-DELHI, INDIA about five years ago while on a speaking engagement and i have seen The Chinese & Indians in action in Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation of about 171 million people. The three Countries named above used to be consumer Nations (like African Countries), but, they now produce and Export all over Africa where Western Powers used to dominate. On my last trip to Nigeria (Nov.'09), i was happy and saddened as i was taken on a tour of some amazing projects being co-ordinated by a handful of Chinese Citizens with Nigerians making up the bulk of the workforce. I still do not understand how they manage to communicate despite attempts by some to answer my question. I felt sad because Nigeria's official language is ENGLISH and it's citizens LOVE ALL THINGS AMERICAN ( especially Medications since NIGERIANS hate DEATH- "NEVER MIND THE UNDERWEAR BOMBER"). Unfortunately, i always sense timidity and lack of interest whenever Nigeria or Africa comes up in conversations with my fellow Americans. The Bottom line is sooner or later, Nigeria & Africa, with it's tremendous human & mineral resources, will eventually be developed. Those willing to play "ball" on the Continent ( with 53 very different Countries)will be the winners.
My prescription for America's present Economic downturn will be to seriously engage it's Friends in Africa(especially NIGERIA) while also embarking on a major Infracstructural Development here at home. We can all imagine a America with "Bullet Trains" criss-crossing the various states along with the job opportunities that will be generated. Remember, when you are up, the only way to go is Down. God-willing, America will stay up ( both in Moral & Economic Terms ).
Finally, i must close with The Late Great "Michael- Jackson" & His Amazing Kids. Much of America watched "The Grammys" this past Sunday Night and the organizers saved the Best for the final 20 - 30 minutes. "MAXWELL" & "ROBERTA- FLACK" dazzled ( a solo performance of "Pretty Wings" & a duet with the latter's collaboration with the Late Donny- Hathaway). In a Blessed Nation struggling constantly with the issue of RACE, I believe The Almighty ( All Religion Inclusive PLEASE) used "MJJ" and HIS PRECIOUS CAUCASIAN KIDS TO CONFUSE THE HECK OUT OF US (then again, i'm not included since i remain absolutely colour-blind). T.V Stations across America showed the less than 2 minutes eloquent speeches by "Michael's" older two Kids. I predict America will have to grow along with these amazing precious gifts in the years ahead. I predict they will help erase the hatred being spread by racists of all kinds. Michael's Music & His Kids will help spread the important message of LOVE all over the world. And To Our HAITIAN BROTHERS & SISTERS, "TAKE IT FROM ME, SOMEDAY WE WILL ALL BE FREE"- The LATE GREAT SOULFUL DONNY-HATHAWAY.
Much Love,
' Tola
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