Introduction to Tola 101

AMERICA: DON'T KILL THE DREAM: THE WORLD IS WATCHING by Denis Ochiabutor Nwaobasi

2010-03-04T14:45:00.000-08:00

ATTENTION:This lovely piece was written by a retired Nigerian diplomat(very thought provoking)!!!

"And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream -- Martin Luther King Jr.

In different parts of the world, in diverse languages and cultures the word dream has different meanings, connotations and interpretations. But the famous American dream owes its prominence to a speech delivered by the late Civil Rights leader, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on 28 August 1963, at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC, excerpted above.

In that great poetic yet philosophical speech, he said: "I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.

"I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood."

Sometimes in the past, I had the opportunity to listen to some erstwhile immigrants, who are now prosperous and well known American citizens, among whom the current Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, declare that whatever they have achieved in the United States was made possible by the American dream. They are quick to tell who cares to listen that hard work, determination, honesty, creativity and patriotism are highly rewarded in America as a result of the American dream. According to them, this dream creates opportunities for all irrespective of race, religion, ethnicity or skin colour.

By 1963, after more than 100 years of independence, the United States of America was still a nation under construction. And the Rev. Dr. King rightly prophesied then that America faced "difficulties" and would continue to do so in the future.

For more than 200 years, people of European origin had ruled the United States of America on the basis of racial supremacy, injustice, socio- political violence, discrimination, economic exclusion, and utter disregard for "godly" and human rights. By so doing, they sowed the seeds of the "difficulties" that Dr King talked about, and which still prevail today.

Americans are very religious. But how Godly are they? They are citizens of the United States of America. But how united are they?

In God We Trust
Boldly written on the American currency, the Almighty Dollars bill is: "In God we trust." History has it that the first Europeans that settled on the geographical space that constitutes the present territory of the United States of America fled their native land, England, as a result of religious persecution. They were later joined by settlers from other European countries.

Given the experience of these early settlers who fled their own countries in search of religious, socio-economic and political freedom, in search of better living conditions, one would have expected them to live in peace and harmony with their hosts, the Native Americans, who had lived on that land for many centuries. But that was not to be, and has so far, never been the case. The treatment that the settlers meted out to American Indians was no different from, if not worse, than the persecution that forced them to flee the land of their own ancestors. America, thus, is a land of contradictions with the settlers and the natives all having their own dreams of a better life.

As if that was not enough the Native Americans were deprived of their God-given land through endless wars unleashed on them by the settlers. Most of the wars ended through the signing of peace agreements, which, were not respected by the settlers. In today's America, reality contrasts with the spirit and letter of "in God we trust."

Race Relations
Relations among the diverse groups that make up the American citizenry, illustrate how erstwhile victims have, in turn, become persecutors themselves. On race issue, America is like a house built on sand, hence without a solid foundation. Residential areas follow racial lines.

Human beings of all races abhor and resist oppression, deprivation of freedom and fundamental human rights, humiliation and exploitation. America mobilized and fought side by side with the oppressed in Europe to defeat Hitler of Germany and his powerful army. The state of devastation caused by that senseless war was such that the same America had to set up a Marshal Plan for the reconstruction of Europe. Ironically, some American citizens currently brand themselves as Neo Nazis, disseminating Nazi literature, unleashing violence and suffering, pain and sometimes death on their fellow citizens under the watchful eyes of successive American Governments.

America was proclaimed free and independent in July 1776, after the war of independence and self-determination against Britain, the then colonial power. Having won their independence the hard way, one would have expected free Americans not to mete out atrocities and injustice to their fellow citizens similar to their experience under the colonial rule. But unfortunately in the 1960s Dr Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights activists fought against inequality in "a state sweltering with the heat of injustice ...oppression," and racial discrimination based on skin colour. The America, which makes the world believe that it stands for and defends justice, equality, self-determination, freedom of expression and association and democracy harbours hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan, an extremely violent and powerful separatist group. The members are lawless, brutal and racist with their philosophy based on the superiority of the "white race" over others. Literature on their activities against their fellow citizens of different racial origins is replete with gruesome, barbarous, horrendous murders and acts of terror.

Another group that shares common views with the Ku Klux Klan are the Neo Nazis, who disseminate the Nazi ideology and recognize Hitler as a great statesman. The United States considered the Nazis as a threat to world peace and got involved in the Second World War to destroy them. Is it not ironic that the same America now has its own Nazis, on its own soil?

The American Rifle Association is another lawless, untouchable group that poses a great threat to peaceful co-existence, law and order in America. The indiscriminate sale of firearms and other dangerous weapons promoted by this group can be blamed for the hundreds of thousands of murders committed in America every year by adults and children alike.

America and slavery
The advent of the industrial revolution gave rise to slavery. Raw materials needed in the factories in Europe were available in the Tropical regions of the world, especially in Africa, and in Asia and the Americas. Plantation owners observed that Native Americans died in great numbers after being subjected to hard labour on the plantations. The need for "more resistant" substitutes then arose and Africans were found to be "better suited" for the hard labour in the plantations.

The experience of African slaves in America was not different from those of Native Americans. The latter were promised freedom if they made certain sacrifices, especially during the War of Independence. But once the war was over, the promises were jettisoned and it was business as usual. It is on record that discrimination was practised even in Churches where Blacks were forbidden to seat together with Whites.

The judicial system too, delivered justice based on race. A White man was always right in any contentious issue brought against him by a Blackman. White children were raised and fed with racial hatred. Their parents never taught them to love other Americans who did not look like them. The seed of segregation, division and disrespect on racial lines was thus sown right from the early life of America as a country, and yet Americans "trust in God!"

Following the abolition of slavery, freed slaves were not equipped to start a new life. They roamed the streets. Some of them were able to buy their freedom and started their own businesses. But from time to time White marauders unleashed violence on them and destroyed all their property. Some whites distinguished themselves and came to the assistance of many freed slaves, but these were few and far between. African Americans toiled to build Churches and Schools, but these were also destroyed or burnt down by some white Christians. There were cases as recent as the late 1990s.

In present day America acts of violence, oppression, injustice and murder, etc., are no longer the exclusive preserve of whites. The oppressed of yesterday have joined the new-comers and become oppressors and murderers themselves. But the black race in America bears the greatest burden of race violence and discrimination in America. The victims range from the late Michael Jackson to sitting President Barack Obama, the first Black American to be elected to the White House.

After September 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks
America has gone through so much politically, militarily, economically and socially. The most recent and most devastating attack on its soil, after the Oklahoma bombing, was the terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre on 11th September 2001. The entire world was outraged and rallied behind America in the aftermath of those attacks.

So much has been said and written in support or against President George Bush's decision to extend his "war on terror" to declaration of war against Iraq instead of concentrating his efforts against terror suspect Osama Bin Laden and the Al-Qaeda based in Afghanistan. The world was made to believe that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, but this later proved to be false.

Under George Bush, Americans lived in fear while their President waged wars against Iraq and Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.

The two wars, especially the ill-advised and costly invasion of Iraq made Bush and his Republican (GOP) party very unpopular in America and resulted in untold hardship at home. So after 8 eight years of suffering, Americans decided to vote Obama and his Democrat party into power.

Obama as President
The George Bush presidency also cost America so much international goodwill. In addition, the world economy took a terrible plunge. President Obama, in his inaugural speech, reminded Americans that the task ahead would not be easy and that economic recovery would take some time.

But less than 12 months in office, and faced with the consequences of two costly wars and a depressed economy, Americans are already exhibiting impatience, dissatisfaction and fury against the Obama administration. The Republicans, instead of cooperating, are working at cross purposes with Obama and the Democrats. Flirting with the same Party that plunged them into economic depression, raises the question whether Americans actually know what they want? Or like the BBC noted on its online edition 24 January 2010: "Why do people vote against their own interest?" This is in relation to the Obama administration's proposed healthcare reform with the same Americans the reform is designed to help describing it as "socialist, godless, a state on the road to a police state." Why are Americans opposed to their own "Marshall Plan?"

Many are reading racism into the senseless opposition to the Obama presidency and its well-meaning reforms. They see some concerted efforts to ensure that Obama fails so his opponents will say we told you that African Americans are a bunch of incapables. Yet, Obama was elected by Americans of all races, creed and region.

Democracy in America

Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), the erstwhile President of the United States described democracy as "government of the people, by the people, and for the people." America has always portrayed itself as a model of democracy, attaching sacrosanct importance to accountability, honesty and good governance. But in reality America finds it difficult to live by these noble preachments, but instead exhibits the tendency of a country at war with itself. To lead a free world requires exemplary conducts. Profound changes are therefore required in every aspect of life in America to ensure genuine trust in God and true unity.

America should be an exemplary democracy which its founding fathers dreamt of. The present "Democranarchy" - a mixture of democracy and anarchy - is unworthy of the world's sole super power. Perhaps, the American Constitution requires an amendment to expunge those provisions that encourage excesses of criminal minds, gun totters and murderers. The authorities should seize all weapons in private hands to reduce violent crime in the society and all hate and criminal groups should be disbanded. President Obama represents an epitome of the American dream, and Americans must not kill this dream.

How To Write A Song : By Molayo.V. Sobande

2010-02-10T13:47:00.000-08:00

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

Seasons Greetings,The Kennedys, Marlon- Jackson & 'The Motherland Project', Music e.t.c "

2010-02-10T13:05:00.000-08:00

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

"On A Serious Note: A Nigerian Suicide Bomber? A Cause For Global Concern-(Blast From Recent Past)"

2010-02-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

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)

"Special Tribute To The Late Ted- Kennedy (Blast From The Past)"

2010-02-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

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 !!!

"Path To Keeping U.S.A #1, MJJ's Legacy(His Kids) & More"

2010-02-01T20:12:00.000-08:00

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

HAITI,NIGERIA & AMERICA ON MY MIND !!!

2010-01-29T19:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,
After numerous attempts by friends and loved ones for me to share my "rants" with folks beyond my sphere, i've finally caved-in upon very little persuation by a Prof. friend whose family made me Haitian long before i cared to find Black folks' very first free Nation (Yes, Haiti is over 200 years old) on the Map.

I have watched various American administration conduct various policies towards that Great Country of less than 10 million people. In my three decades journeying through my adopted Country of the good ole U.S of A, i've spent a decade in Boston,Maryland tri-state area and S.Florida respectively. I must admit that i was appalled at the treatment of Haitians locally in S.Florida and in America generally. As a Practicing Pharmacist in S. Florida, working in various neighbourhoods from W. Palm Beach southwards to Miami, i have watched helplessly as many Haitian families cope in a dignified manner with the rather ridiculous rule dubbed " the wet foot, dry foot policy". Haiti & Cuba are fairly small Island Nations with troubled history,much of which the average citizen in the two Countries along with their counterparts in Great America, have little control over. The argument for allowing Cubans ( i identify with Cubans because they have an amazing Yoruba tradition- S.W-Nigeria) to walk "right-in" and get proper documents that many folks of African-descent will spend an entire lifetime working for, has been beyond me. And for some reason, until recently, most of the Cubans moving to America tend to be Caucasian. Now, obviously this has my "funny" mind thinking my adopted Country still has a long way to shake-off issues bordering on racial bias. As i write, despite the complete destruction of lives and property from the present earthquake in Haiti, my beloved Country still has plenty of Haitians in jail simply for not having proper documentation.

Fortunately, i've invested my little resources into discovering the world outside America. Unlike many folks around the world, i am never surprised at the amazing humanity & generosity of majority of my fellow Americans. They make my job easier as i knowingly & unknowingly spread America's gospel around the world. I will use this opportunity to appeal to my American Brothers & Sisters who tend to lean a bit too much to the right, hiding under terminologies such as "Right Wing", "Conservative"( believe me, most folks with African values tend to be Conservative Socially but have no time for Hatred), "The New Tea Party Folks" e.t.c (y'all know those i'm talking about and i bet they know themselves too) to do a bit more soul-searching.

I suppose it is easy for me to talk about certain sensitive issues that most folks in America may not feel comfortable talking about because i try to make myself believe i fear no one. Listen, many of my Heroes ( J.F.K, M.L.K, Malcolm-X, Bobby-Kennedy,M.J.J,Nkrumah & so on) died rather young. At my tender age, i've experienced a bit in life for me to decide The Almighty ( All Religion Inclusive) certanly did put me here for a reason. All the riches in life will not make me happy. True Happiness for me comes from seeing "American values" practiced,thus changing my American Children's world for the better. My "poor" kids, i keep "preaching" to them they must stand up for something. I suppose i'm trying to follow in the footsteps of my Parents, Uncles, Mentors & Role-Models while growing up back in Nigeria. I hope i live to tell their story,but, they have left an amazing legacy. They are certainly tough acts to follow. The bottom line is America will be better off if her citizens can hold on to the humility,humanity & generosity that i have been watching on T.V Screens since the tragedy in Haiti started. My prayer is that Haiti will not be tuned-off before, during or after the Super-Bowl. I mean no bias when i say that America ( citizens & it's Patriotic Army) is presently at it's VERY BEST as we watch what we've always known The Blessed Nation is capable of. And i am watching what folks in Africa are doing (or not doing) to show their solidarity with the Continent's people in Haiti. I was Happy to see Huge HAITIAN POSTERS & Flags at the on-going African Cup Of Nations in ANGOLA. It's so unfortunate that up until now, Africa has not been able to speak in unison to let the whole world know that the entire Continent stands solidly with it's people in Haiti. Perhaps, this will change once Nigeria's ailing President returns to Abuja after having been away from his "Throne" for over two months while recovering from health issues in Saudi-Arabia as Africa's Most Populous Nation remains Leaderless.

In conclusion, i must assure the WORLD that HAITI will never dissapear. In my chat with my Haitian Brothers & Sisters, i can't help but be amazed with the audacity in these amazing people. They are not busy spending too much time crying and trying to have people feel sorry for them. RESOLUTE ! They are ready to dust up, rebuild and keep on LIVING (It's an African thing-especially, Nigerian. NEVER MIND "THE UNDERWEAR BOMBER") . As the first Independent Black People, i suppose they have tragicomically grown used to getting up every time they've been wronged (to put it lightly). Someone said a couple of weeks ago that Haiti recently finished paying the French ( Yes, for once, i'll join fellow Americans who could care less about "French Fries"- of course i know nothing is French about Heart-attack-causing "Fries") for their Independence. Pardon me, I must Have Way Too Much On My Mind. Hopefully, We'll Pick-Up From Here Soon. I've Got Nothing But Love For All Reading. PEACE & LOVE ALWAYS !!!

Most Sincerely,
' Tola

intro to tola's SUPER rant

2010-01-29T13:57:00.000-08:00

Let's see, let's see, let's see. . .

I want to share my thoughts about how beautiful the world would be from the perspective of a person of African descent who has lived in and loved America for the past three decades.

I am a frequent visitor of the African continent--specifically its most populous Nigeria.

I hope to use this site to help bring some understanding between not only people of African descent but others that care about Africa and all its peoples.