The best there ever Was, The best there ever Will be!

I just finished watching Jackson’s memorial. It’s kinda like a bomb went off in my head a week too late. i have goose bumps on my arms, especially seeing his childhood pictures and him singing “I want you back”. Like He would know at age 10.  I can’t help but wonder: What if? What if he stayed and aged as he should have? how handsome he would look. God works in mysterious ways and they say he can’t give you everything. I don’t know that I would’ve reacted this way if I hadn’t dealt with a similar situation not so long ago. Though every experience, every loss is different, I finally understand most of what his family is going through.

I was in Tunis when I heard of the news of Michael’s passing. Surprisingly (or maybe not) the tunisians in the hotel seemed much more touched than the bunch of americans I was around. Still, though I felt sadness, that was about it, maybe because I had my own demons to fight. Upon getting back to the US, it actually hit me more and more that a prodigy was gone. It’s unbelievable how much time I’ve spent on youtube watching the man’s videos and concerts and remembering some songs I had forgotten about. Gosh! He had so many, kinda reminds you he’s been singing since he was 6. At times, I couldn’t help but feel pitty. Knowing how much he’s been through while watching every and anyone paying tribute to his life, I kinda wish someone, anyone would’ve stood up while he was still alive to stop the madness and circus the media made about his life. Even the coverage right after his passing was offensive: talks of prescription drugs and all the rest. Yes the man had flaws, try living your life in the spotlight since childhood and being held up to some  impossible standard. My sister and I were wondering yesterday if his fame and fortune were worth all that he had to go through, and both answered Hell no! no one should have to go through what he did. And in the end, he was more of a soul in need of help than anything else.

So let’s keep celebrating the best that ever did it, and the best that ever will. I don’t think we’ll get to see such a genius for a long time. It wasn’t just his dancing, but also his persona, his character, his smile, his sensitivty, his high-pitched voice that all got lost in a masquerade of surgery and singularity that everyone just labeled as mere weirdness. But that was him, with all his greatness and his flaws.

God bless him and may he rest in peace!

As soon as people are asked of their favorite michael song, it’s either Beat It, Thriller, Billie Jean, Bad or Smooth Criminal. Those were GREAT and I can listen to them over and over, LOVE them. But I like the more subtle ones, the underrated, but nonetheless great: Heartbreak Hotel, Who’s loving you, PYT, Another Part of Me, Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough and my ultimate favorites: Human Nature,  Give into Me and The Way You Make me Feel.

  ” La Bande a Bono” in LA- January ‘09

 

Dance Away!

M.

 

Somewhat still around…

It’s 3:48 AM and I can’t sleep anymore. For the past 10 years, every so often, say every month or two, I’ve had this dream, actually let’s call it what it really is, a nightmare. A nightmare that I’m being chased. Always the same story, getting chased by a man, a dark, scary, sweaty, dirty and relentless man, who without a doubt is out to hurt me. There’s always familiar faces in it, friends usually,  sometimes family but  neither can ever help me. At the end of the dream, I always wake up right when the man is about to catch me. So far, he never has. Tonight he didn’t either. I usually get back to sleep after a 1/2 hr because I’m used to it happening. But tonight I can’t. Tonight, my friends were not in the nightmare, but my family was: my mother, grand mother, sister, twin brother and nephew.  One was missing.

Amina (from the Coup de Coeur Blog) sent me an email yesterday about missing my posts. Though I meant to answer over email first, I didn’t get around to it before going to bed. I have gone M.I.A for a while. Last you heard from me, I was coming back from travels and getting slammed by a wicked agenda between thesis, papers, internships and work… Though I was able to finish and graduate, the unthinkable happened: my dad left on May 2nd at 1:05 AM. I was on the plane taking me to Dakar after my mom told me dad wasn’t feeling really well since the day before.

 He never got to see me graduate. My reason for ambition and determination had left a week before I graduated.

You see, the worst part of that nightmare that got me curled up in a ball when I woke up,was not about being chased around, but rather because of my dad’s absence in that nightmare. To this day, a month and 29 days later, I go around, back to routine day after day, after day and yes I’m able to smile, joke around, even laugh. But every once in a while, something, and it’s never something precise, makes you break down. In the middle of nowhere, in the middle of people, in public places, in the shower, behind the wheel…anytime, anyplace. I went to Tunis for work last week and though it did me some good, I broke down in the middle of a meeting. No triggered word, no triggered image… just thoughts alone, and a heavy & bleeding heart… Anytime, anyplace…

Everyone said: it was God’s will and the funniest part is, I have said that to people before, but I don’t think I could’ve ever realized what it meant, and I still don’t. If there was a plan out there for my dad to pass and life to go on, I don’t know what that plan is for because the pain my sister, brother and I have gone and still go through is only made worst by seeing my mom’s world completely shattered and having no idea what to do with herself. Despair alone is enough to break you to pieces, let alone missing him.  Heaven should’ve waited…

… Or picked me. If there was ever a way to designate oneself before God called my everything back to Him, then I would’ve volunteered to go over him. Because there’s so much my dad was looking fwd to, because there’s so much more coming from me that I would’ve wanted him to see and be proud of, because there’s so much good he could’ve still done for people around him. It’s unbelievable how many stories I’ve heard after he passed that almost made me feel like I didn’t know him. People coming fwd with stories about how he helped or even saved their lives. And closer to my heart, stories about him, his reactions, temper, character, habits, likes, dislikes and it made me smile under puffy, teary eyes because I realized right then, tough I had an idea already, that I am my dad’s carbon copy. And though it makes me proud, it also leaves me ever sadder. Everyone has a story about dad but the same theme keeps coming around: “Un homme de paix, mais avant tout un homme de principes”. Avoiding drama like the plague, but ready to stand up for what he thought was right. 

If nothing else, my mom, sister, brother and I were proud. Even from his place in the cemetery, next to his mom and dad,  he made us proud. If today indeed I’ve lost 1/2 of me, lost all of my ambition, lost quite a bit of my reason for being, God only left me with pride, memories and a whole lot of questions. Can I add anger? Because I kinda am, but that’s blasphemous, isn’t it?

If only heaven would’ve waited, he would’ve seen his grandson (that little devil!) turn one the day before he passed, me graduate 6 days after he passed, his wife’s bday a month later… And God knows he wanted to see all of that, he was getting ready for all of that. Even he didn’t know he was leaving. 2009 started off very well for each and everyone of us 5 in the family and all was going smoothly, until May 1st when he suddenly got stomach pains…

So here’s why I haven’t posted anything in so long. It might just be that way for a while because I have to admit, not much matters to me right now, not even myself. I will get through this. They say tough times do not last, but tough people sure do, and family and I will.

For now, despair and a big empty hole are all I got… And no one can help.

God grant me the serenity

To accept the things I cannot change;

Courage to change the things I can;

And wisdom to know the difference.

M.

 

 

The Vieiras, the Bongos and the Al Bashirs…

I’m sticking my nose out of reports for a second. Couldn’t help but react. I tried to shut it after Guinea’s events, after Bongo’s, but news out of the Hague about Sudan are too big for me to just keep quiet.  Are things moving for Africa… Maybe?

Well, you know what I think of all these people, “African leaders”… I don’t have to repeat it! (Not all of them, but let’s say 99.9% of them)

*Bongo, the only man shorter than Sarkozy…  They only froze a tiny part of what he stole… Freeze more! With all its potential, Gabon is still one of the poorest country in the world. You’d think it’d be otherwise given the size of the country and small population… not sure this will hurt in any way, but it’s clearly publicity not needed

* Al Bashir, it’s sad that there is even a debate about whether there should be an international warrant for his arrest. It is the right thing, is it what’s needed? Unfortunately not… Of course, the dire situation humanitarian agencies and peacekeeping mission are going to take a it and be retaliated against… BUT, the bigger picture you ask me? This will show any and everyone no one is above the law, not even a Pdt.

Overall, it’s about time the Internaltional justice community took notice of Africa’s woes. Now, I’m not calling for radom intrusion. Call me bias, but any warrant against Kagame for example, I’ll stand against… Now people like Al Bashir, I salute the “intrusion”, that is if you call trying to stop a genocide an “intrusion”. It is certain more need to be tried, more injustices need to be highlighted and more atrocities condened and swift action to be taken, in many places accross the globe. BUT, some intervention is better than no intervention.  Some are saying, why randomly assess who gets tried, and who doesnt. Sudan’s case is not random. It’s long overdue!

*As to Vieira, well the man is gone. Rest in peace, and may your people finally get out of misery… AT LAST!

AND CAN SOMEONE ASK WADE (Senegal’s pdt) TO SHUT HIS TRAP? That I know, he’s never done anything to allievate Darfurians suffering, hell, doesn’t do half nearly enough for his own people in Senegal, except for his pockets getting fatter…. So Puh-Lease….Actually, that all these leaders (Tanzania, Senegal to cite a few) would rather ask for more patience, I’m bewildered. It’s been going on for so long, how much more time do you need? 400,000 dead and 2 million displaced. More time for what? The cowards only fear for themselves and one other importance of this arrest warrant: precedence. If it happens to Al Bashir, it can happen to anyone of them. Meanwhile, they all sit around him in meetings, they may not congratulate him, but they might as well! It’s sad this has to be taken care of by international community. I hear the argument about making the situation more volatile…because Al Bashir and his people are senseless murderers. The issue is not that there shouldn’t be a warrant out for his arrest, the issue is the lack of action: unlilateral, miltary use of force to back it up…

All pigs, and will all burn in hell: I said it! Ocampo is a hero. The chances of arresting Al Bashir are not so low. As soon as he flies in international space, he can be arrested by UN agents,according to Intl Law. Bottom line, people are slowly dying: women are massively gang raped, 500,000 die each month of excrutiatingly painful deaths… in th end, maybe, just maybe al Bashir acts eraticly, then action will be taken.

Allright! I’m out… I’ll have to come back and profess my love for Kigali,  Rwanda overall …AND Kagame, my skinny hero!

I’m watching his monthly press conference on TV: when asked about the situation, he doesn’t agree with the ICC and the selective nature of how it deals with its programs. He finds the institution too political. He acknowledges his bias and that he might not be the best person to ask about the ICC. Now, about Al Bashir, he sees as a separate issue than the ICC, and doesn’t want to take a stand about his being guilty or not. BUMMER! Very disappointing answer. What happened to fighting for the vulnerable and defenseless. He of all people should know. Didn’t he cry foul and hammer the Intl community for not standing up for his people. He’s had to take charge in a country that went through the horrors of Darfur and worst… I really thought his answer would be different, but then again maybe Sudan is geographically too close, maybe all african pdts know in the back of their minds not to disavow each other (god knows they’re almost all alike anyway!), and mayb it might be the fact that some judges are on his case as well.

I’ ll say more next time.

Peace out!

 

Time OUT… (Pouce!)

Okay, haven’t blogged in a while. I just wanted to sound off now before I leave. I won’t be around for at least a month and I can’t say I’ll miss winter in DC (it’s been colder than ever).

Got a lot to do and not much time to do it all:

* I have a seminar this weekend on: the “Methodology of Peace”.

*  I just chose my thesis “Business Engagment in Conflict settings: How Foreign Direct Investments help or hinder fostering peace in Africa”. Due by the end of the semester.

* I have to do some work/school study and my topic will be: “International Public Health System in Post Conflict Countries: How NGOs should better gear their policies to ensure sustainable peace”.

* AND on top of it all, I’ll be traveling  for work over the next month to: Addis, Kigali, Bujumbura, Nairobi and Geneva (in that order). Hopefully, winter will be done (or almost) by the time I come back (March 18th).

So my plate Is definitely full (and I thought things would slow down in the beginning of the year, HA!). I will try to post as often as possible, but given the scope of what’s waiting, I wouldn’t hold my breath!

So, I’m signing off for a little while, packing my ballerines and short sleeves and leaving the boots and coats behind. But i’m sure i’ll be reading your blogs from my hotel room on weekends!

Any suggestions for good books ?(French or English)? You’d think I’d have enough reading to do with the thesis and studies I have due soon but I’d like to read stuff non work/school related as well. I have to admit I haven’t followed up in the literature department  lately. I’ll need some for the time I’ll be spending in planes and airports.

Smooches,

M.

 

Obama & the Muslims…

Muslim/Arab/Persian (pick one)

issue/problem/conflict (pick one)

Mr Pdt came out today on Al-Arabiya TV to discuss US-Arab world relations. 1st interview on Arab television, al-Arabiya’s Hisham Melhem, this has to be an event (especially coming from a US pdt, how different). It’s like fresh air. I just hope they take time to listen, let him prove himself and show the new direction he wants to take.

See I take issue with the amalgam people make about muslim and Arab world. All muslims aren’t arabs, all arabs aren’t muslims. If you read part of Obama’s inauguration transcript, I think he could’ve done a better job at separating those 2 worlds. It’s not the muslim World you have a problem with. Now, I’m sure Obama knows that, but maybe it would be a good start to stop spreading that into American media.  As muslims, we’re even asked, why don’t you stand up for what you believe and defend your religion against terrorists who want to hijack it. My answer: I don’t feel i have to defend anything because if you only knew better, just a little better, you’d know they’re not speaking for all of us out there, they’re not even speaking for the majority of us out there.. So yes, I’ll educate people when asked about it, but it’s pretty hard to educate people when you spend most of your time defending your position when being attacked (because fighting stereoptypes and prejudice means being defensive everytime you’re asked about it). Now, not to overstate, it’s not like we’re being persecuted. But if you just listen closely to what is being said out there, it’s not a comfortable feeling. I’m confident enough in my faith that it doesn’t bother me in my day to day activities, my faith is not written on my face, and you would’ve thought ignorance would’nt be such an issue by now. But 95% of americans do not know 95% of Senegal is of muslim faith. I guess ignorance is bliss. That being said, I can only imagine a woman walking with her veil in the US or some religious sign accross her chest.

So I applaud him for tackling this issue so early on in his presidency. I guess he’s trying to set the tone Biden, Clinton and Mitchell will have to follow (because god knows he’s going to have to focus on domestic issues: job losses, stimulus plans and market crashes)

Hopefully, the bitterness and pettiness he wanst to kick out of DC, he’ll be able to kick out of that region. What needs to be clear though, which I think he touched on (around 4:10 of the video) is that thought Israel is an ally, they need to bring something to the table as well, and even moderates in Israel agree they’ve been given a blank check these past 8 years.

If you ask me, I’ll tell you straight up, Israel doesn’t have the right to exist. I said it. agree, disagree? That’s my opinion. Now, is  Israel’s annihilation a solution? Maybe not given the alliances they were able to built (don’t think the US is the only one, it’s their biggest ally, but they have some in the muslim world and the Egyptian government has been accused time and again to be part of it). I don’t think it’s fair to impose Israel, but if Palestinians want to be better off, then they have to put aside some of the differences. I think the Arab community in the Middle East did a very bad job at building alliances.

Mitchell is a breath of hope. He was very efficient in brokering a sustainable Irish-Catholic peace agreement in Northern Ireland. let’s see where this ends… It’ll be long and it’ll be tedious. But I do think if someone can do it, it’s Obama and we can only go uphill from where the whole matter stands today. It was  about time someone thought of reaching out to the ArabMuslim world (I call it that because the conflict is mostly with those who belong to both). It’s only right that in trying to broker a peace deal between two sides, you’d TALK TO BOTH sides. Even during the campaign, you hear talk of Israel all the time but only hear of Palestine as in the Israeli-Palestine conflict. It’s like Palestine only exists in a conflict paradigm.

On my way to work this morning, I was listening to Radio MPR (I use to put on music all the time, but I’m so sick of TPain and Akon every 2 seconds). They had this Palestinian student who lives in the US call and told of the story of his father and deceased brother who died last month in one of Israel’s show of force. Israeli soldiers came into their house, shot the brother and refused for the father to call an ambulance. They made sure to stay until the 18yr old  (freshman in college) died in his father’s arms. Worst part is, after the father was able to sneak for a moment and call an ambulance, the soldiers asked the ambulance to turn around. The boy bled to death while the hospital was less than a mile away. The father begged to even let them walk, he would carry his son to the hospital himself, but they refused. It’s such a sad story, but then again it makes you think and wonder how they think they can get away with such behaviors. I’m not discounting that of the Palestinians, by all means, this just all has to stop. Both need to be called back to order and hopefully Obama will and stop with the unfair one sided policies. That is only a recipe for failure.

Here’s a link to the full transcript.

 

Hellooo Mr. President… Cheers to Barack Hussein Obama!

Well, his time has finally come!

No need to tell you, DC’s been hijacked by out of towners. Out of town licenses everywhere, people don’t know how to use the DC Metro (major slow downs…) but the atmosphere is jovial and happy all around filled with sea of faces from all around the world. Iwent to the Inaugural concert on Sunday and today’s inauguration as well. Estimates talk of nearly 2 mil people, but in 9 years that i’ve been in DC, I’ve never seen such crowds, such excitement and such pride. There’s a feeling out there that America is beautiful again.

At The National Mall

Political leader and cultural icon…

So now the weight of the world is on his shoulders, litterally, and what a weight! I don’t really envy him. As the saying goes: to whom much is given, much is required. He’s been given a whole lot,  and a lot of optimism is going around. Today’s a day for celebration, but tomorrow is time for work. He is in trouble. He’s the most powerful man in the world, but he’s in big trouble.

There’s loads of optimism and confidence in his ability to lead. A lot of hope, inspiration and joy. And that might help him damper people’s high expectations. Also, he’s such a rock star and popular right now that no one dares oppose him. In times of hardship, no one likes to see catfights, all they want is action and going against the Pdt’s will is seen as being catty.

Going down Constitution avenue...

Extraordinary party for an extraordinary man…

I cheered when he said his full name… So so proud!Many raised the question as to whether it was appropriate to have such a grandiose party in such harsh economic times. The answer from one CNN reader on Cafferty: “America has been going through 8 years of mental recession, spare us one day to celebrate and then we’ll all get back to work.” The Inauguration Committee spent $160 million for the day. This will be the campaign, the inauguration, the era that will break all the records.

Ushering in a new era…

More than just a party with random people crying, hugging and kissing in the streets of DC, his speech rang true on every note. Given how interested I am in American Foreign Policy, the most important moment, was this part of the speech:

To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society’s ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

If that is the guiding principle of his American foreign policy, then the world can only be a better place. The message is clear and direct. I guess all these African leaders that are in town, UNinvited, throwing their own “unofficial” inaugural ball (pittyful!) must, or at least, should feel a bit ashamed. If anybody wants to claim the dream he was able to achieve, then they clearly now know who can cling to it, and who cannot.  So to african leaders, please refrain in your celebration because he sure was talking to you about clinging to power.

His speech is all that it should’ve been. Concise, direct and with a clear message and purpose. He touched on every single issue that is important to America and the world to a certain extent. Magnificent speech overall, not that we expected any less of him. There was also an underlined criticism and backhanded compliments to Mr. Bush… i actually felt sorry for the guy because where I was standing, people booed everytime his name came up… Both him and Cheney were booed: “Nah nah nah nah; nah nah nah nah; hey hey hey Goodbye!”

Did you guys notice Cheney on his wheelchair?… talk about hurting his back the day before officially leaving office. People saying it’s too bad this is the last image we get of him… To all those, I say, you have seen nothing yet as to what happens to this man. Just watch…

And what’s with Justice Roberts messing up Obama’s oath…

The town’s going back to normal tomorrow. Roads will be open again and all out of towners will go home.  It’ll be business as usual and back to work for me. The first daughters are going back to school (how cute are those 2 with their cute outfits, beautiful!)… to a remarkable day…

 

The difficulty lies, not in the new ideas, but in escaping the old ones, which ramify, for those brought up as most of us have been, into every corner of our minds. ~John Maynard Keynes

…To another great left-handed personna! You know how US lefties do…

M.

 

VALKYRIE… 2008’s Best Movie!

BASED ON A TRUE STORY: a plot to assassinate Hitler during WWII, also known as the July 20th plot. Operation Valkyrie was the official code-name for Hitler’s contingency plan in case of a national emergency, and what the plotters in a brilliant scheme decided to use against the SS regime once Hitler was killed.

Tom Cruise as Colonel Claus Von Stauffenberg. The cast was brilliant. If you’re wondering what movie to watch, you HAVE to run see this one. We were ecstatic at the end of the movie and the story is so inspiring. The movie is directed by Brian Singer (Usual Suspect and XMen, 2 movies I Luv!)

Though initially, there was much ado about nothing because Cruise was playing the role of Von Stauffenberg, German Ministry and the Colonel’s family expressed concern over his following of Scientology, and that’s sad. Though I’m very puzzled by the teachings of Scientology, Cruise has always delivered on all of his roles and that shouldn’t determine whether he does a good job or not. Tensions flared then settled and in the end, he delivered with oozing charisma and presence. I feel this was his best role ever and should be nominated for an Oscar. His performance and that of others in the movie were electrifying. Add a great plot, loads of suspense and a touch of heroism and humanism, and you get one of the greatest movie ever produced. Really, it was THAT good! Tom Cruise NAILED IT…

So run see it. You’ll learn some history and better yet, it’ll inspire to make a difference. As I said many times: IF YOU DON’T STAND FOR SOMETHING, YOU’LL FALL FOR ANYTHING.  So often we only celebrate those that were able to make a difference and tend to completely disregard unsung hero.

The movie and the personality cult around Hitler is very reminiscent of most of our leaders in Africa. It’s a little tough to get passed Von Stauffenberg being a father of four, to put his family aside and work for the greater good of Germany (and the world to a certain extent). The greater sacrifice imaginable. Though I’d like to think of myself as a humanitarian in the flesh, I can’t ever imagine leaving my family off for any cause. But then again, those were extraordinary times…

Only spoiler to the whole thing: we already know how it ends. V. Stauffenberg doesn’t get to kill Hitler and the atrocities of WW2 keep going, we know for a fact. On the other hand though, knowing all of that doesn’t stop you from staying on the edge of your seat. D turned around to tell me how nervous he was at some point and we were both trying to figure out who the “traitor” was going to be: someone had a funny look on their face, so-and-so doesn’t seem to be 100% on board, why did he say it this way? why did this other not act according to the plan?. Overall, the director and the cast did a great job not spoiling the thriller and though you know how it ends and where it starts, you only know as much as you watch and the suspense keeps you boiling with excitement, to the point where you even ask yourself: wait… Hitler committed suicide at the end of the war right? You feel like going back to your history book, but ultimately and unfortunately as you’ll find out, we’re not rewriting history here… But makes you wonder about the turn of events had they succeeded and only wish for them to succeed. It’s like American Gangsta. You watch it knowing Denzel’s character goes to jail and gets caught, but Denzel plays it so well and is so charismatic, you almost dismiss all the harm his character has done for his community and hope he doesn’t get caught. This set of events is a little different because it would’ve been the right thing to happen.

10 out of 10, so go catch it!

 

2009 is here… Blessed and Happy New Year!

First off, let me start by wishing all of you a happy 2009 and may this new year bring all the joy and happiness you wish for! 

I dunno about you guys, but for me, 2008 went by so fast. I remember celebrating  2008 so vividly, it feels like it was yesterday. Anywhoo, i’m not big on resolutions (I would just break them the next day!), so I never make any. On the other hand, I look back on 2008 and think long and hard. Turned a couple of pages and that’s for the best. Like I said in the “About ME” tab, NEXT, the world is my playground and life is pushing my wings!

The break was Fan-TasTic and felt very well deserved. Now it’s back to work. Can’t believe these 2 weeks went by so fast, even faster than 2008.

In other news, I would’ve hoped 2009 would’ve started better for the rest of the World. It seems every year’s end, something goes array.  Gaza hospitals are filling up with civilians mostly. Whether you have a stance on the whole Arabo-Palestinian conflict, and putting aside history, one has to admit 500 deaths on one side vs 5 on the other screams unfair and abusive use of force.  It’s startling to me that a country would think a show of force in such a volatile region surrounded by enemies will get you anywhere. If anything, it only fosters extremism and hardens moderates.  I tend to be very pessimistic about a sustainable peace in Africa, but the light is ever and even dimmer in the Middle East stemming out from a very unfair situation created by a repentant  Europe for having let Hitler’s atrocities go on for way too long. 

Let me not dwell on this too much. Here’s how you can help:

UNRWA, United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East : http://www.un.org/unrwa/emergency/donation/emergency_activities.html

ANERA, American Near East Refugee Aid: https://secure2.convio.net/anera/site/Donation2?df_id=1280&1280.donation=form1&s_src=googlegrants&s_subsrc=gazatermshelpgaza&gclid=CMm4tbrn95cCFQGHHgodPjIJDw

SAVE THE CHILDREN: http://www.savethechildren.org/emergencies/middle-east-crisis/gaza-children-in-crisis.html?gclid=CJ3qxdTn95cCFQFvGgod6hQbDg&WT.mc_id=x_gg_emer_middle_east_txt_3&WT.srch=1

DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS: http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/donate/

 

I now have to get back to the chaos I left in the office. Fun, right?

SO, NO resolution as always, BUT… Food for Thought for this new year: 

Don’t be afraid to believe that you can have what you want and deserve.

Watch your Thoughts, they become words.

Watch your words, they become actions.

Watch your actions, they become habits.

Watch your Habits, they become character.

 

 

Peace out!

M.

 

 

Angels: Good or Evil

I haven’t done much this weekend. Didn’t really feel like doing anything. Went to the mall on Saturday with some friends for Xmas shopping. It’s so obvious it’s a recession out there. Malls are not as full as they usually are this time of year, and certain stores (the ones dumb enough not to have any sales) are empty as ever.  Maybe that will help de-commercialize Xmas.

Anyhoo, been watching the History Channel Saturday night and Sunday, mostly about religion. With Xmas season, it seems everyone’s more interested in religion (at least for the last 2 weeks of December). Saturday, there was this documentary on the Da Vinci Code. I think we’ve not only all read the book but also seen historians break down what was true and false in the book.

Today though, just finished watching a documentary: Angels: Good or Evil? I just caught the last hour about Angels and Jinns in Islam. It’s fascinating. Being from Senegal, and I’m sure the same could be said about a lot of cultures, you can’t grow up dismissing the idea of supernatural forces out there, as scary as it may be. There’s just so much that happens that cannot be explained by humanity, you can’t help but believe in higher powers, be it God or other forces. Islam talks of God, angels, and Jinns.

The book of Marie talks of 9 angels, in groups of 3, who can address our needs that humans can’t.

In Islam, each angel has a specific calling. Spells are used in amulets to keep newborns alive, to treat impotence, to help your business grow… I always thought these magic spells were only used back home, it’s quite interesting to see there is a history throughout the world of using magics to cure people’s problems. You know:  amulets, spells which are used back home for good reasons as well as bad ones. They are so scary to me that I usually try not to think about it because they give me the creeps. It’s almost become customs for Senegalese to run to Marabouts and “charlatans” to resolve their issues. Worst part, is now they’ve learned how not to do anything about their situations other than using magic: to get a job, to get a wife/husband, get rich, but also, get rid of competition, get their bosses fired, get rid of the cumbersome wife/husband out of their way… And don’t get it twisted: almost everyone is doing it, even people you wouldn’t suspect. Whether they’ve been educated or not, Senegalese or not… they all do it. And it’s not only in Senegal. It’s actually worst in many other counties. I’m talking about Mali, Togo, Benin, Haiti and so many others… those are the ones I’ve heard about the most. So in the end, if you’re not resorting to magics to get what you want, you use it to protect yourself anf loved ones, protect the little success you’ve been able to make for yourself, the good wife/husband you have at home, from jealousy and envy.  You’re taught very early on, not to expose your financial or personnel success so as not to attract the evil eye, the envy of people and people’s talks. Unlike in the U.S.  for example, you have to “hide” what you’ve accomplished.

To be honest, it’s one of the things that make me re-think about whether I ever go home or not. But like many have told me,  especially my father, it doesn’t really matter where you are in the world, if they want to get you, they’ll try. All you have for yourself is your belief  and faith in god and praying to him nothing human made can hurt you. And that’s more powerful than any spell. To be honest, (and maybe go into more personnel that I have ever on this blog), from talking to my grandmother and mother, they’ve often told us about amulets, and eggs they’ve so often found hidden in the family home when they were younger. My grandfather had done well for himself throughout his life alongside Senghor (Senegal’s first Pdt), and his children, thank god, did mostly well for themselves too.  Sometimes, at family reunions, they’ve made it a point to tell all of us (about 70 grandchildren) about how vile and ugly people can be, but also how good they can be too. My grandmother has always refused to resort to magic and says all she needs is for God and her departed husband to protect her and she will be alright. With all that has happened to her, it’s pretty amazing for her spirit never to have broken.

Ok, I’ve gone  a little off topic here…

It’s very easy nowadays to put aside religion or the existence of a supernatural world because of new technologies and science. It’s the issue addressed by Dan Brown (author of The Da Vinci Code) in angels and Demons. How science and religion fight each other because it is believed one cancels the other out. The book is about the fight the Vatican has put on for so many years to avoid certain secrets about Jesus, Mary and Christianism that would make that would divulge religion to look more “human”. Through the sect of the ILLUMINATI, the plot takes place in Rome where scientists try to protect the Vatican from a bomb threat from Illuminati who vowed to uncover the Vatican for its hypocrisies and contradicting values ready to kill to keep secrets. Read it if you get a chance, I liked it better than Da Vinci Code.

Angels represent the best and worst of human kind, the struggle between good and bad which I believe we’re all capable of, each and everyone of us. While being a scary thought, it’s also reassuring to know you have angels and people watching over you. I believe when people are taken away, they may not become angels, but they watch over you. It might be just a way to keep them present in your life and thinking about them, but I believe in it.

 Anyway, the documentary was fascinating. I wasn’t able to find the scheduled reruns, but an upcoming documentary to watch is God vs. Satan on Dec 25th at 8PM and Dec 26th at 12AM on the History Channel. Not sure anybody has time to watch TV these holidays, but hey…

Honestly, I’m done with school, and trust me I’m glad to catch a break, but with everyone asking me about the PhD (hunh dad , I always thought if I went back to school it would be to study Law (humanitarian Law), I’m seriously, very seriously now thinking about studying theology. I just find it fascinating and I want to know more about it. How realistic is it to make it into a degree? I don’t know. So maybe just a certificate or on my own time …

 

“Reputation is what men and women think of us. Character is what God and the angels know of us.”
   - Thomas Paine

Barcelona-Villareal is about to start… I have my Barcelona jersey on (Thx Ishoum;)… Cross my fingers and toes!

Peace my people,

M.

 

Weight Fluctuations… and ramblings

Okay, I guess after the 200th person tells me, yes I’ve lost some weight. If I didn’t know, now I know! Went to a party on Friday, 4 people told me and 3 just told me this morning at work. I think I got it by now.

I’ve never been obsessed with my weight..Gain some, loose some. It’s never been hard for me to lose any, and I don’t gain weight easily (j’entend deja les mauvaises langues so daccord… except when I was in Geneva ou jai du prendre 20 kilos ok!). Hell, I can skip one meal and fit in the dress I didn’t fit in the day before. But it’s like people like to remind you and talk about it. It’s funny how every time I’ve lost weight people tell you how good you look. When they tell me I’ve gained weight and don’t make any comments, I feel awkward… what do you mean exactly? It’s like you wait for a comment of approval. Because when I loose weight you never forget to tell me how good i look, but when I gain some… there’s just no comment at all.

People make it a point to make you self conscious about your weight… I’m lucky my metabolism is fast enough that I don’t have to worry much, but it might catch up with me once I get kids. Hopefully, I look at my sister now and maybe it won’t. She had a baby and looks slimmer than me even. But then again, I’ve always had more hips and been a little heavier… I’m anti diet anyway. I belive in Mark Twain’s :”Part of the secret of success in life is to eat what you like and let the food fight it out inside.” I’ll get to the gym whenI have more time, which is NOT NOW! I’ll do Yoga next year…

So with a car accident last week, exams killing me, a crazy work schedule getting off of work around 8 or 9 at night, having a root canal and a dentist that won’t let me be and wants to do all kinds of procedures… (that I’m not sure are necessary at all)..of course I’m going to lose weight.

So next time you see me, just say you look great or don’t say anything at all and don’t mention the weight. Gracias!

“Nothing would be more tiresome than eating and drinking if God had not made them a pleasure as well as a necessity.”  ~Voltaire

 

Peace Out!

M.

 

If you don’t stand for SOMEthing, you’ll fall for ANYthing…

I’ve been away so long!

Work is busier than ever, end of year, wrapping up some projects that are closing AND my boss had a baby boy on Thursday. It is a happy event, but then again what the both of us usually did now falls on me. Fun, right?

School: classes are OVER… I have a couple of papers due next week, then it’s done. I still have to write my thesis in January, but no more campus…not that I have anything against AU, but hey! Juggling between work and classes especially around exam time was excrutiatingly tiring. After this thursday exams and classes will be done, so I’m psyched!

What’s next? I dunno. What is sure is I’m tired of DC. So Dakar or Geneva… probably!

Other than that, I haven’t really followed on anything happening…haven’t had time… but I look forward to some free time and some me time.

I’m watching Christiane Amanpour’s “SCREAM BLOODY MURDER” on CNN. Though I’m not a big fan of Amanpour, given her not so unbiased reporting on “religion and faith”, I have to admit she delivered on this one. Basically, the documentary is about the gross human rights violations, genocides and civil wars that have gone unreported by the International community: in Cambodia, Iraq, Rwanda, Bosnia and Sudan. She reports on the people who stood for something at times it could cost one’s life, those who fought for what was right and took it to heart to alarm the international media and intl community. It’s like the world will never learn. One instance can be an accident but this many can only be a lack of interests. This december marks the 60th anniversary of the Genocide convention.

A French priest in Cambodia. An idealistic U.S. Senate staffer in Iraq. A Canadian general in Rwanda. Each one tried to focus the world’s attention on genocide. Each time, they were shunned, ignored or told it was someone else’s problem.

She interviewed Kagame and I have to say I’m such a big fan of his. I understand there are some mixed feelings about him, but I consider him a hero. Are his hands blood free? NO. But in the end, he was the only one to care enough to rescue his people. Like Kagame, I can only see the international community’s lack of will to intervene as a lack of desire, not having hands tied up as they so often pretend. This is why I regret the lack of pressure on China, especially during the Olympics.

What an Obama Administration will do for Africa and torn places in terms of Foreign policy?

Eventhough Obama’s victory was cause for celebration in Kenya and throughout Africa, Obama himself will not do anything for Africa, at least not more than any other president. Not that he doesn’t care, but let’s just say the man has a lot on his plate. He will and has to focus on domestic affairs. Now his administration can. He nominated Dr. Susan Rice as UN Ambassador. Nothing could be more of a good news for people like me who’ve been waiting for an intervention. Rice is a role model (at least for me). She was a fellow at the Brookings Institute, was under secretary for African affairs under Clinton. She was also Obama’s foreign Policy advisor during his campaign and this woman is a tough cookie. Intervention and stopping the genocide in Darfur was a mainstay of Obama’s campaign speeches.  And when he nominated Susan Rice to be the UN ambassador, she ticked off a list of priorities and challenges, including ending genocide. Also, a Clinton as secretary of state won’t hurt either. Hopefully, she doesn’t act like her husband when it comes to us and actually does something when she can.

 S. Rice’s stance: intervention, intervention and that’s what we want to hear.

 

 

Amanpour interviewed Michael Barnett: Eyewitness to a Genocide, which I read while in Geneva. Bartnett was a fellow at the UN at the time of the genocide. Read it if you get a chance.

 

“He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Peace out … and Happy Eid Al Adha to everyone!

 

Refugees and Fashion!

I usually am not a big fan of photographers taking “sordid” pictures of Africa and Africans. I call them sordid, you might call them something else. Though I agree, it’s not all rosy back home, there’s much more to Africa than plagues, suffering and war. Now, I still think it’s important to report on them. Otherwise, they go forgotten, and count on africans themselves to forget. I have a rwandan friend who once told me travelling through Rwanda, some people he met were not aware of the Genocide in Darfur! WoW, of all places…

This I think is a little different. We don’t ever associate refugees or IDPs with fashion or other “superficial” matters. Though their lives are changed forever, they still remain human, with needs, wishes and basically, just wanting to live a normal life. That might be through fashion, or just a desire to be looked at as more than another victim.

Celebrated fashion photographer Rankin turned his back on the sumptuousness and glamour to embark on a journey to the refugee camps of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The war-torn country is said to be the world’s deadliest conflict zone since World War II, killing more than 5.4 million people. The conflict is complicated by outside forces and a variety of armed groups fighting both the government and each other.

I’ve talked about Congo on this blog before and how horrific it’s been out there.

Rankin said his images go “beyond statistics and show the human side of the conflict,” claiming that Western audiences have become “anesthetized to traditional photographs of conflict victims.” 

 

The photos are of the citizens of DR Congo who had to leave their villages and live in refugee camps in order to save their lives. Most of these people have lost their families due to the war. They are true survivors trying to lead a normal life amidst the inhuman conditions that surround them. 

 

Rakin visited the Mugunga refugee camp with Oxfam and his photographs are now being shown in a exhibition outside the National Theatre in London’s Southbank until December 21, 2008. The exhibition is called Cheka Kidogo, Swahili for “laugh a little.” The photos were taken and posed as a fashion shoot and are very different to the images usually coming out of war zones.

  

 

 

Tumani (Hope), 38. Tailor 

“This sewing machine is all I could take with me. It was heavy, difficult to carry, but I couldn’t leave it behind. This sewing machine feeds my eight children and me. If someone were to take this from me, they would be taking my life.”

 

 

Seraphine, 42. Entrepreneur 

“I came from Rutshuru in Katwiguru. My own husband was killed in front of my eyes. There is still no peace in Rutshuru. Laurent Nkunda (leader of CNDP) is still oppressing us. We lived with the Interahamwe and there was no problem with them. But when Laurent Nkunda came, we started suffering a lot. He shot many people. Many people.

“Please help us get rid of those enemies so that we can go back to home. That is what we want. If you help us with this, really, we can finally heal.”

 

 

Antoinette, 70. Wife and Granny 

“ My husband was a businessman. He is dead. One night those men entered the village. They were assaulting us, shooting people, and setting fire to our homes. My husband was shot. I found his body on the street. I didn’t attempt to bury him. I couldn’t. I had to run. I want my message to be heard. I want an end to this war.”

 

 

Rehema Buera, 52. Restaurant owner 

“I lost my husband and four of my children because of this war. After the attack, there were dead bodies everywhere in my village. I found the dead bodies of my husband and my four eldest children – all shot in the head. That day, 175 people from my village were murdered.”

 

 

Furaha Vumilia, 65. Basket maker 

“It takes two weeks to make a basket – but it only sells for 260 francs (25p). How can you work for two weeks to make 25p? I fled when the war came. People were throwing bombs into our houses. I was living with my son. He and his wife were killed. I fled with my two grandsons. One is 15 and the other 13. They are orphans now.”

 

 

Karo Redi, 14 (with baby Happiness)

 

 

Banza Masamba, 47. Hairdresser  

“There are 24 of us in the camp, living in four small huts. The worst moment in my life is right now. We want peace. That’s all. Peace so that we can go back home. We want you people to talk to the politicians and ask them to stop this war.”

 

 

 

Jasmine, photographer 

Jasmine turns her make believe camera on to the photographer. 

 

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June 20th is World Refugee Day (it’s forever stamped on my brain from my time working for UNHCR). It shouldn’t be the only day when you do something about it though:

Educate yourself, get involved. Go to: 

http://www.oxfam.org./en/emergencies/congo 

http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1857758,00.html

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“We are not myths of the past, ruins in the jungle, or zoos. We are people and we want to be respected, not to be victims of intolerance and racism.” 
– Rigoberta Menchu, REFUGEE, Guatemala Nobel Peace Prize Winner, 1992

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Peace,

M. 

 

 

MotoMoto in the House! MADAGASCAR II

In case you didn’t get it, I’m referring to Madagascar 2. It came out this week end and being a fan of cartoons and Disney movies (my dad still doesn’t understand how his 26yr old can still be watching cartoons!) It was hilarious, went with a bunch of friends, made it even more interesting so go watch it if you have a chance. Feels good to escape work and studies sometimes, and not to be thinking hard all the time. King Julian and MotoMoto are to die for!

Other than that, Obama parties all over the city. It was crazy! I think people are milking it now! Anyway, great times to be in DC. It seems this blog has turned into an Obama blog, when at first, that wasn’t my intent at all. I actually started the blog while doing some research about one of my papers and wandered around the internet. And given that I refuse to express myself on Facebook and other “social” website , well, I decided to express myself here. Now that he’s my “Mr. Pdt”, well, I’ll still talk about him, but to a lesser extent. And the Master’s done in a month too. Really people, what am I going to do with myself. Just work? At least the Bball season has started. I love soccer too, but I can only watch it on weekends. That might compensate…

I was curious to see what the most recurring themes on the blog were. Apparently, I’ve talked about religion quite a lot. And of course, Africa, home, war, activism and politics. I’m starting to get known out there as a political/activist freak. I’m really not, but I like to keep on top of current issues, and I have to given my field of work and studies. So, from now on, less politics, more… (I dunno).

Just wanted to tell you to run watch Madagascar II.

 

Africa is a CONTINENT, get it RIGHT!

Fox News reports that Palin didn’t know Africa was a continent and did not know the member nations of the North American Free Trade Agreement — the United States, Mexico and Canada — when she was picked for vice president.

Newsweek reports that Palin spent far more than the previously reported $150,000 on clothes for herself and her family.

Several publications say she irked the McCain campaign by asking to make her own concession speech on election night.

 Palin Aide: Campaign Drove Wardrobe Controversy:

However, Stapleton told ABC News the Fox News report on Africa and NAFTA was taken out of context. She explained that during a briefing session, someone asked Palin to explain the McCain-Palin stance on an issue, and as she was responding, “in the middle, she said ‘country of Africa’ and somebody instantly wrote it down and said, ‘Oh, my God, she thinks it’s a country.’”

 

I didn’t know people like that still existed. Actually, nah…I did. I know there’s rampant ignorance in this country about far away places, especially if those places don’t hold any type of interest. One of those: Ya know: Dark Africa. BUT, not too sound corny or cheesy, you would’ve thought Gov Palin, in her running for Vice President and going against an African American ( litterally AFRICAN American), she would’ve at least known Africa was a continent. Well, turns out she didn’t. I’m sure this only reinforces the sentiment the elctions went the right way. ANd just in case you want to cut her some slack, fine. How about living in the US and not knowing the countries that signed NAFTA? I don’t doubt there might be many others out there, but it sure is a scary thought coming from an elected official seeking the oval office.

Yes, the race is over and the gloves are out. A time for victors to rejoice and for loosers to blame and point fingers. In this case, they’re all pointing to Alaska. It might be unfair to portray her as THE reason for the Republican’s loss, but one has to admit she and her many screw ups played a huge role in McCain’s slamming defeat. Ultimately, McCain would’ve still lost given the disappointing and divisive campaign he ran, or so I think. Many have praised him for his speech, I do too, but to a lesser extent. That’s what the candidate who lost does, especially after they loose by such significant margins. Remember, the day before, according to him, Obama was a socialist, maybe even worst, a comunist (the ultimate insult right?). So excuse me while I wipe my tears of joy and please step aside. He either completely lost his way during the campaign and had his eyes way too focused on the end, by any means necessary, or he just believed half of what he said on the 4th.

Oh well, I think Palin is  going be in the news for a little longer, giving ammunition to SNL and comedians, but other than that she is and will remain a joke. As to calling her the future of the Republican party, that’s what people always call the loosing Pdt or VPdt. But never for too long. If she is, then the Republican Party is more lost and confused than I thought. So long Sarah…

 

It is now time for CAMELOT… and I STILL refuse to work…

The Era of CAMELOT

Here’s a breakdown of the results and categorized by the average IQ of those states… NO COMMENT.

WoW!

 

Off to another Obama party tonight to celebrate with some friends (like we didn’t celebrate enough on Tuesday night! My voice is still not back…) But there are tons of parties this weekend throughout DC… and the Obamas are coming to meet the Bushes on Monday for a tour of the White House. You know MD, DV and VA will be back in the streets again to celebrate, and so wii I! It’s so exciting, I can’t even contain myself…

By the way, if you want to attend the inauguration on January 20th, start calling your Congressinoal Representative NOW.

Friends,

Please take the time today to call your Member of Congress. Each Congressional Office will be allotted a certain number of tickets to give to their constituents to attend the inauguration. Do your research, call the office and ask for one/two tickets to attend the Inauguration. They will put your name on a list immediately. You can mention that you volunteered, this helps. They won’t ask you where or how. Each member of your family can call to request a ticket. There is no cost for the ticket (FREE!). Please be certain to take down the name of the person you speak to and keep that on hand for when they say you must call back to check on when the tickets can be picked up.

Call today. Many Members of Congress are closing their lists this week.

“Joint Congressional Inaugural Committee Releases Ticketing Information for
56th Presidential Inauguration

 

Cheers,

M.

 

I WEPT

Call me a cry-baby or too emotional (i don’t thnik anybody’s ever called me that!)… I wept like a baby yesterday .Couldn’t even breathe at one point. It was all surreal to see his name next to the President Elect sign…

We were actually waiting for the results for Virginia and California, so we were all very surprised that they called the election for him so early. We all bursted into joy and hugged for 5 minutes. Then, we danced… oh, and the DJ, imagine this: the whitest crowd ever and all of a sudden some “coupe Decale”…let me just tell you us africans went BIZIRK… and that was to celebrate Obama’s Africanism. IT was beautiful. Of course then there was McCain’s speech that everyone calls gracious. I admit, it was. Maybe I look too much to the past and can’t get past certain things he said on the campaign trail, I was moderately impressed. (Je suis rancuniere, je sais!). How about President Obama all cool, calm and collected while the rest of the country was loosing its mind over his victory.

 

As to our 44th President’s speech, I already knew I was going to tear up. My eyes got wet when he walked on the stage with the ” First Family”. Then, he started talking, I started crying, then he talked about the 106 Yr old African American who cast her ballot in Atlanta. That’s when I LOST IT. I cried and wept to the point I couldnt breathe anymore (sorry for all those I scared). Then again, even Powell said he wept.

At the White House, Yesterday. Looked like a mutiny. It was actually very close to a mutiny.

 

Here’s a video showing the Madness in DC. We left U Street and walked to the White House around 2 am. U know how it was in the streets of Paris after France 98, when they won the World Cup + New Year’s… add some, and you only then can you  imagine what yesterday was like. This is coming out of U street and going towards the White House. MAYHEM:

So, thank you for all the calls, MSNs, Bberry msgs, Text msgs from all over… from Dakar to Geneva to Montreal to South Sudan to Jeddah… (Yes Ismael, you way over there in Jeddah . I know I was vehement in my support for him and it paid off. Only now do I only realize how many people’s ears I was bashing about Obama. I’d like to believe I converted, or reinforced your view of him. And if I did, then I’m the happiest woman in the world. So thks for those who’ve let me know I was the one who did that and told them about Obama. Imagine telling your kids: “Obama got elected President on November 4th, and your auntie Marie was the first one to tell me about him.” WoW!

Anywhoo, I still refuse to work… because:

YES WE DID my people! Last night, AMERICA made us PROUD!

“Beautiful Day” is one of my favorites from U2, and oh, so appropriate… check it out on the week’s pick.

See the world in green and blue
See China right in front of you
See the canyons broken by cloud
See the tuna fleets clearing the sea out
See the Bedouin fires at night
See the oil fields at first light
And see the bird with a leaf in her mouth
After the flood all the colors came out

It was a beautiful day
Don’t let it get away
Beautiful day

 

M.

 

Happy Bday Marieton!

 

Talking ’bout a Revolution starts… with a Whisper…

 

All that’s needed now is for people who said they’d vote for him, to go vote for him. So to all out there, Go out and vote. I wonder though what my new hobby will be. This has been going on for 2 years so I’m kinda sad it’s coming to an end. I’ve proudly followed this guy since his speech at the DNC in ‘04 and converted everyone around me ever since. It’s been exciting and a blast going through the whole primary and presidential season. The elections were historic in so many ways: Hillary (though I think her campaign has been less than honorable), Conservative’s desparation, Joe the Plumber as the face of the republican party and last but not least, the magnificent campaign Obama ran. So for all those reasons, I’ll be devastated when it comes to a close.

And, oh, if Palin is the future of the Republican Party, then Democrats are surely very safe for years to come.

As Dr. Cornel West (see his latest book “Hope on a Tightrope”) said, it’s an exciting time to be living in times of such desparation from Conservatives.  Yes indeed, it is!

GET OUT and VOTE!

I’ll leave you this time with this super funny email I got at work on Friday. Let me just say I’ll scream BOOyaa AND call in sick on Wednesday

M.

 

________________________________________________________________

Good Morning My People,

 After watching the final debate the other night, it dawned on me that Obama could actually win this thing.  If that happens, there will be a lot of people (some of our co-workers included) who will be afraid that an Obama presidency will usher in the end of days.  They’ll be watching us on November 5th (the day after the election) for signs of the end times.

 To keep the peace and keep a lot of folks from getting nervous, I think we should develop a list of acceptable celebrations and behaviors we should probably avoid – at least for the first few days:

1.       No crying, hugging or shouting “Thank you Lord” – at least not in public

 2         No high-fives – at least not unless the area is clear and there are no witnesses

 3         No laughing at the McCain/Palin supporters

4         No calling in sick on November 5th. They’ll get nervous if too many of us don’t show up.

 5         We’re allowed to give each other knowing winks or nods in passing.  Just try to keep from grinning too hard.

 6.        No singing loudly, We’ve come this Far By Faith (it will be acceptable to hum softly)

 7.        No bringing of  barbeque ribs or fried chicken for lunch in the company lunchroom for at least a week (no chitterlings at all) (this may make us seem too ethnic)

 8.        No leaving kool-aid packages at the water fountain (this might be a sign that poor folks might be getting a break through)

 9.        No Cupid Shuffle during breaks (this could indicate a little too much excitement)

 10.      Please no “Moving on Up” music  (we are going to try to remain humble)

11.      No doing the George Jefferson dance (unless you’re in your office with the door closed)…..

12.      Please try not to yell—-BOOOO YAH!

13.      Just in case you’re wondering, Doing the Running Man, cabbage patch, or a backhand spring on the highway is 100% okay.

> >  If I’ve missed anything feel free to add to the list. I just want to make sure we’re all on the same page when Obama brings this thing home on November 5th.

 Now go get your early vote on and let’s make this thing happen!!!

 

Obama Boomaye!

I LOVE this picture.

You know how they say 30 is the new 20...well, Obama is the new Lincoln!

 

 

This one I’m proudly rocking on my car:

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Well, well, well…

It’s been a busy week at work and school, but I’m seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s midterm’s week and all my papers and presentations are due at once. This IS the last semester though, so I will suck it up, do my part..and get it over with.

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So, of course, like most of you, I took time out of my proposals (trying to end the Ethiopia-Eritrea Border row, how pretentious?) to watch Barack’s 1/2hr infomercial -Obamamercial as they call it. The video was impressively well directed (a little dramatic at times, but it only reflects the grandeur of the moment). Putting aside all biases of mine, I though it was brilliant (what else?). I hate to mix shallow when talking of “noble subjects”, but didn’t he look betther than he ever has. Not to sound like a teenager here, but ooohhhh! Seriously though, I think it’s very important for candidates to grab as much attention from voters towards the end, and not just any attention, but positive attention. Notice how he did not ever mention McCain and his campaign. That was great strategy. Only issue I had, is the repeating sound of  promises he made, it sounded like a record full of” I wills and  I promises…” Though I believe some of it, ( they’re all politicians after all) it just sounded like a whole lot to try to achieve in 4 yrs, especially given the harsh economic problems the world is now facing. it just sounds unachievable and I wonder whether promising less wouldn’t have been a better strategy, especially when people are so disillusioned. Ultimately, it doesn’t change my mind. I certainlty don’t agree with Obama’s stance on the Israelo-Palestinian conflict and his parting of Jerusalem, but I’d still vote for him because of all the other issues. PLUS, I’d vote for Oompa Loompa before I vote for McCain. Another point, I don’t agree with but I could easily see undecided voters and republicans turned off, is the presidentail turn his commercial had. Though of course you want to look presidential, it might look a little pretentious to look and sound SO presidential. Personnally, I don’t really buy it. but hey, something to keep in mind. I’m sure that’s gonna be McCain’s latest line of attacks.

-

-

Allright, back to serious business… Obama and Clinton are about to take up the stage in Florida. And by the way, wasn’t it time for Clinton (Bill that is) to throw his support. I mean, i’ve lost so much respect for this man, it’s unbelievable how hard it was for him to let go of the anger. It’s a presidential race. May the best win! Your wife lost, ok… he ran an extraordianry campaign, hers on the other hand I took issue with so many times. I’ve never thought much of Hillary, but Bill was way up there on my list. And for him to have been so vindictive and actually forced to throw his support (or rather 1/2 support) behind Obama amazes me. He’s entitled to his opinion of course. But guess what, no half-ass endorsement either please! He came out and said he’s not bitter, he throws his support for Obama. Well then a little more excitement please instead of dodging every question and never fully supporting the man. If you don’t feel like supporting then just say so by all means, and prepare to incurr the wrath of the democratic party if you think they threw you under the bus. He’s finally campaigning for the man. But I think he’s mostly doing it for his own political career and legacy, which took a hard hit during this campaign, and that of his wife ( coz we know it’s over for THEM if HE doesn’t win!)

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Ok NOW I’m getting back to my serious school business. I’ll leave you with a video that is making waves on Youtube. Barack and McCain dance off. The video is hilarious and very well done.

Oh yes we can!

________________________________________

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As Oscar Ameringer put it:  “Politics is the gentle art of getting votes from the poor and campaign funds from the rich, by promising to protect each from the other. ”

M.

 

Hijab or no Hijab… That is the question!

First off, I want to greet Hijabee in DC. Welcome to the blog and thank you for your comment. Though I love it when people agree with me, I find it even more interesting to have different points of view. I was going ot answer with another comment, but then it got too long, so I started a post.

Now to answer your comment on the “Inside the Koran” Post, as to the mandatory use of the hijab for Muslim women, I guess we’ll just never agree on this one (and we’ll live with that, won’t we!). For me, this issue is not even a matter of should it be forced or not. There is an underlying difference between mandatory but not forced AND not mandatory but recommended. 

And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what must ordinarily appear therof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and notdisplay their beauty except to their husbands,….

My interpretation of the verse you posted is obviously not the same as yours. I don’t interpret this as asking women to wear a veil. I interpret it as dress modestly so as to avoid attracting gazes and stares. And to achieve that, I don’t think the Hijab is necessary. I would go as far as saying wearing the Hijab is being zealous, but more power to anybody out there who wants to. I don’t see the Hijab as being aggressive as some have argued. Now, wearing the Burqato me is…. how do I put it in a “politically correct” way …is straight up idiotic. I don’t mean to be offensive, but that’s my view, and I think everyone is entitled to their opinion. If my daughter (when I have one) wants to wear the veil, I’ll sit down and ask her why, and let her do it if that’s really what she wants to do. It is also true that wearing the hijab can decrease the tendency of the self to focus on vanity and the physical beauty of the body, and that’s a plus.

I was talking to a colleague last time and I was pointing to the fact that some women wear the hijab, with the tightest clothes out there. I think that defeats the purpose. Of course, those are probably the ones, who given the choice would choose not to wear it. See, the danger with your interpretation of mandatory but to each woman’s discretion (versus mine of not mandatory but to each woman’s discretion) is it gives ammunition to fundamentalist and religious zealots to impose because ultimately I think imposing the Hijab and the Burqa are acts of men. That’s not a reason to completely dismiss the veil, but it doesn’t help. As a secularist, I think it’s important for all, women especially to part what came from Islam and the Quran and what came from Arabic tradition.

Now, though I think the argument of women wearing the veil has some value, because I think most of the women who wear it don’t really have a choice, I see this argument more as a weapon for the West to falsely point to Islam as being oppressive.

I think the Quran does ask of women to cover up and dress modestly, but think the veil as coming from Arab tradition rather than the Holy Book. I think men have used this hijab and burqa argument in many parts of the world to indeed oppress women. I think most women who wear the Hijab, do it because they don’t have a choice. I think some women who wear the Hijab see themselves as holier than those who don’t. I think wearing the Hijab is being zealous (after all even the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’s wives did not wear the Hijab)

On the other hand, I believe it does allow for women to avoid being self centered. I believe some women who wear the Hijab do not condemn those who don’t and do it for their own personal reasons. I think the Hijab can help spiritual growth.

I don't think it is a BASIC Human Right. It IS simply a right.

 

 

 

So, in the end, I’m not anti Hijab. I’m against the motives behind wearing it most often and what’s been made of it. I certainly wouldn’t recommend my daughters to wear it. I’d recommend they cover up though that’s for sure, act in decent manner and be modest in all circumstances. But, like I said, if they ever, on their own decide they want to and ask for permission or  blessing, I would give it to them. Now, chances are, if my daughters get my personality, they might not even ask me and just do it. Well, then fine!

I’m sure my post is going to raise some eyebrows, and some might even find it blasphemous and I assure you that is certainly not my intent. 

 

 

 

 

 

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For those who can laugh at religion, I’d suggest watching Bill Maher’s Religulous. i saw it this Weekend (I was really trying to see “W” but it was sold out!). I am still cracking up. Bill goes to Amsterdam, North Carolina and asks questions about religion and some of the "myths" (at least that’s what he calls them) about Noah’s Arc, the trinity… The movie is doing good at the box office and of course, some asked for a general boycott. Note that it’s not a documentary… makes a big difference as you watch. And of course, if he wanted to make it a documentary, his choice of representatives would be more than questionable since he only interviewed fundamentalists. It’s more of a comedy, based on true facts and characters and full of very simple, narrow- minded people. LOVED IT!

 

I agree with most of Maher’sarguments in his “Real Time with Bill Maher”’s show and even on religion sometimes (he’s an atheist which isn’t a belief that there is no god, it’s not having a belief that there is a god). Sometimes he makes you cringe though and i guess he does it on purpose.  Of course, I don’t agree with all he says on religion… especially when he has &^%$#$ like HER on his show distorting it all:

 

He called her story extraordinary and brave. If by extraordinary you mean liar, then yes, it is extraordinary! She’s a hypocrite and a phony. It’s sad that Steven and Darrel Issa are the ones with the more nuanced approach. It’s not all black and white. Of course there are some grey areas. Ultimately tolerance and moderation are the norm.  But she still wants to dispute that. Muhammad (PBUH) had to become a warrior because he and the first Muslims were persecuted. And it’s certainly not true that the Quran says if you’re an infidel, you should die. There are extremists in all religions and certainly in Islam.

Let me stop here coz I’m getting all worked up over someone who’s not worth it.

That was my 2 cents regarding your comment!

Salam,

M.

 

“Trust No one, Deceive Everyone”

This is bad! I actually thought of closing the blog since i almost don’t have much time for it anymore! How sad!

Anywhoo, dropping a line real quick to tell you all to go watch Body of Lies coming out next Friday. If not for DiCaprio, you’ll go for the great plot, Russel Crowe and director Ridley Scott. The movie is adapted from the novel by Washington Post Columnist about a CIA operative who goes to Jordan  to track a terrorist.

Okay so if you’re thinking like me, you’re thinking … there we go again! In the 90’s, it used to be the russian that Rocky had to knock out, then the viet’s turn and now arabs. Stereotypes hunh! Well, I trust Leo, Russel and Ridley scott to deliver a knock out movie though. The trailers are insane and this is going to shatter the latest box office movies. Comes out Oct 10th and I can’t wait!

 

 

By the way, run see Eagle Eye with cutie-to-die-for Shia Laboeuf. I know i’m corny but I just love the kid! He was great in Transformers…

Could anyone look hotter than Leo though…  …not really!

 

 

Laterzzzz!

 

El Cantante

Dropping a line quickly for anybody who hasn’t seen El Cantante yet. Though I’m not a fan of J.Lo, Marc Anthony all by himself is worth watching the movie. The movie is good, the man is a genius and the music is excellent, so you’ll dance off of your chairs for sure! It’s based on the lifeof Hector Lavoe, famous Puerto Rican salsa singer from the ’70s.

The movie is more than just about good Latin music. Lavoe was deeply troubled and almost paranoid by the prospect of death. He suffered personal tragedies and the dismissal of a father who thought singing was not so honorable. He used up drugs to numb his pain and became HIV positive from drug use.

This song is addictive too:

 

M.

 

Way to Go GOP: a Day Late & a Dollar Short

So I was away this long weekend and had the greatest time in Montreal. A chance to get away from DC, US politics, school stress and work, we all need that from time to time , right?

Came back to a terrible mess here. Not from work, I only managed to have about 15 emails when I got back. That’s a first! The political landscape is in turmoil though! I wasn’t really sure where to stand on Palin when I left. All I saw was McCain picking a woman to steal some of Clinton’s bitter, frustrated, clingy base (Go right ahead please!), picking her to attract ultra conservative pro life partisans. What he probably didn’t realise (as if it was that hard to put 2 and 2 together) is that Palin stands for almost everything Clinton has fought against. So how do you think you’d attract those women? Right, maybe because they have proved time and again that they are willing to vote on emotions rather than on issues.

Well guess what, she actually is being criticized (rightfully so) by mothers and women all across the country because she has 5 kids (3 are okay for now, one’s pregnant and one has dow syndrome). You’d think with all that baggage, how is she gonna run this country? I’m all for women juggling high power jobs and families, but le’t be honest here, there is no way she can do both correctly. She will have to choose at some point. Especially given McCain’s old age, he needed someone energetic, devoted and fully available. She’s certainly not. If she is, then it’s because she would put country before her family. And that to feminists is unforgiveable. It’s a reality that the same is not expected from man candidate. Obama has confessed many times that he’s missing out on his kids growing up and is not getting nearly as much heat as Palin is right now. Kind of a double standard, but hey!

AND, on top of all that, Mrs Mom from the almighty party, preaching far-right-abstinence-only, has a 17yr old pregnant daughter. One of two things: you are either the biggest hypocrite ever or just not that efficient in managinig your home. Don’t get me wrong, accidents happen. We all know you can’t control all that goes on in your home and raising teenagers is hard. I’m sure she didn’t send her kid to get pregnant. But you’re running for the 2nd most important office in the country and you’re proning abstinence and nothing else. What does this say about you? If that’s what McCain calls being fully vetted, then, by all means, how is he going to run this country? The major decision a presidential candidate has to make is in the choice for his/her VP. Let’s just say one did waaay better than the other! This is the most qualified candidate he came up with, in big,vast America. WoW. Worst part for him, is there WILL BE more dirt on her coming out coz the media is all over this.

4 days after she’s been picked, this is what we know for sure:

1.She governs 9000 people in a state where there are more deer than people. Her so called CEO experience was managing 50 people.
2. ZERO foreign policy experience.
3.He met her one time 6 months ago and interviewed her 15 minutes.
4.Under criminal investigation.
5. Husband was arrested for DUI.
6. Teenage daughter is pregnant.
7. Has only been out of the country 1 time in her life. WOW

 

Now he sends a team of 12 to further investigate. Yeah, like trying to patch the roof while it’s raining.

Of course I realize McCain’s plan is no for me to understand, because people like me would never vote for him. So he’s tapping into his base and trying to solidify it. I get it, and maybe it’ll work with them. But it’s clear in this election that the winner is the one who will draw in the most independents vote. And Palin I’m not sure will help him with that.

 

Watch out Cindy!

 

Never Gonna Give You Up…

 

From the convention… Michelle, Michelle!

Anyone who listened to Michelle Obama’s speech knows she rocked it. I’m not her biggest fan, but that’s only because of the fantasy man she married rather than her personality ( I’m just jealous!!). I’m sure someone wrote her speech, she’s had input from her husband, a coach and lots of time to practice this. It ’s still an achievement if you ask me, because she delivered. Can you imagine Cindy McCain or Laura Bush doing the same? She was brilliant. She hit the nail on every point. If that’s not inspiration for women, then I don’t know what is! I still don’t get why some women cried though. It was a superb, well crafted speech.

I’m now in awe of her and what she’s accomplished. Ultimately, at this level, a man can only go as far as your wife and family will lift you.

 

Now, I can’t wait for Cindy McCain’s speech. Really, let’s hear what the bimbo has to say!

 

 

 

____________________________________________

You all know of my fascination with this man. Someone else out there in the blogosphere/Youtubosphere actually is even more infatuated than I am it seems. Or they just have waaaay too much time on their hands. Anyway, I haven’t said much about the convention and the Biden pick, so I thought I’d drop this here at least for your entertainment.

Now, Biden has been my pick since the beginning. Some complained about Hillary not having even been vetted for VP. That’s because they don’t want her and ultimately the choice is Barack’s. So please, all the protesters should just be locked up for 8 years, enough time to give McCain et. al time to damage the economy and foreign policy further. Gosh, they piss me off. Women and politics…a dangerous mix. First time they are this involved, and they made it all about what politics shouldn’t be about: emotions. GET OVER IT!

Get with the program. Biden is the perfect pick: who else would run towards the stage like he did on Saturday during their first appearance in Illinois or say that his wife is “drop-dead gorgeous”? Only Biden. He speaks his mind (God knows Obama needs someone like that by his side) and oh… Darfur. He’s advocated for military action from the get-go, so hopefully, him in the office will change from Condie’s and George’s lets-talk-about-it, but-not-make-a-move attitude.

 

Back to Barack and the MOVES. The video is called “Barackroll” (the original singer is Rick Roll Some thought his dancing was off, I say Bravo!

 

BinBinBlog!

Ok, this may not be the best transition (y’ know! from the earlier post I won’t mention, hint hint: right below) but hey! Il faut de tout pour faire un monde…

So no point in writing this post in english because the blog I’m about to introduce is all in french (sooorrry!). Non french speakers can still go check it out though!

So, j’ai decouvert ce blog: BinBinBlog il ya qque temps et le visite regulierement. Aucune idee quant à l’identité de l’auteur (ca n’a pas trop d’importance d’ailleurs!) . Le nom du blog et le nom de l’auteur (PetitPagne) en disent assez pour que je n’en rajoute! . Place a la séduction version sénégalaise, on est réputé pour aprés tout!

 

Quelques titres de posts:

Poids de l’education, choc des cultures/ Fais moi Mâle / Polygamie / La Jalousie est un TRES vilain Defaut / L’Armoire à Lingerie de la Djongué /  ”Bledards” VS “Toubabs bou Gnoul”: Balle au centre /  Marriages Arrangés qui n’arrangent pas tjrs au final / Le Mougn /  J’fais à manger, Tu fais la vaisselle /  Un Thioff avec des Oursins dans les poches / Raison VS Amour / Chutes de Reins a en tomber…

(Bon, ya aussi des post sur Senghor, Cesaire, Rose Dieng, le Senegal et autres…)

 

En gros, vous voyez la couleur! Decouvrez vous meme avec un espace achat as well (au cas ou!)

So, si vous avez une minute et envie de decompresser, faites y un tour! Hommes et femmes sont la bienvenue… On n’est jamais trop informé, right?

 

Il n’est que 11:45 but je creve la dalle! So, lunch and then back to work!

Enjoy the blog!

M.

 

Inside the Koran

I’m actually back sooner than I thought.

I just remembered I wanted to post something on this documentary I (semi) watched last night. I wasn’t really concentrated, but National Geographic Channel is fortunately airing re-runs of it this week end.

 It’s called: INSIDE THE KORAN.  It’s quite fascinating and goes through the huge differences among the vast Muslim world. (Because there is more than one Muslim society and all Muslims don’t live in the Middle East, right?). The Holy Book guides a billion Muslims, so it is only right that it stirs so much fascination.

 

 I have to admit, I have only taken interest in religion not so long ago. Not that I didn’t believe (I always have), but I wasn’t practicing much and still have some grounds to make up in that field). I only know some of/about it, and from what I know, some I agree with, some I disagree with. (But even raising questions according to some, is blasphemous already). Excuse me if I have questions and some doubt as to the validity of some arguments. Some might tell you, you’re supposed to believe even if it doesn’t make sense. Sorry… I have a hard time doing that. Call me too down to earth, too realistic, too modern (as some might put…), but I’d like to think we don’t just all follow things blindly. The goal is not to turn things and the religion upside down, but maybe…just maybe… it would help to make sense of what it is we’re following here. It’s hard for many to believe that Islam can be source of inspiration for both pacifists and extremists: it’s open for interpretations, we don’t have a clergy for guidance and the translations are sometimes full of discrepancies on top of the Arabic language being highly metaphorical.

How can a woman be head of state in Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim nation, but not even permitted to drive in Saudi Arabia, the home of its holiest sites? Go figure!

 

The documentary goes through Women’s condition in the Muslim World (necessity of wearing the Hijab, female circumcision…), relations with Christianism and Judaism, message of peace and the right to defend one’s religion…

The most fascinating segment of Inside The Koran concerns scientific investigation of the oldest known manuscript pages, discovered in Yemen in 1972. They were written in the early eighth century without diacritical marks, the little dots and accents that can change not only the pronunciation of Arabic but also its meaning. Some scholars, the documentary reports, believe anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of the words in the Koran have been misidentified.

So the Koranic sentence that’s been widely understood to promise martyrs an eternal romp with virgins — ”we have paired them with dark wide eyed maidens” — could, with insertion of diacritical marks, actually be “we will make you comfortable under white, crystal clear grapes.”

 

The documentary doesn’t mean to be controversial but by simply raising questions within such a sensitive topic, I raised my eyebrows quite a few times, especially when I hear some idiots who think they are God themselves. The women’s right issue gets me upset all the time.  I personally believe reforms are needed. Not with the Koran itself (it is the Word of God after all), but with the Hadiths, and the Sunna, the Shariah and how a lot of things are interpreted, if ever possible. Because if you take away what was lost in translation, misinterpreted, intentionally corrupted, then a billion people can’t rely on that information.

Given how torn and frustrated I am sometimes with my religion (aren’t we all a little?), and those who blindly accept it all, my philosophy is to go with what makes sense. Because, at the end of the day, what religion and Islam in particular teaches you is to be a bigger and better man/woman, compassion, love and sacrifice for the greater good. So if you ever wonder about abortion, gays, war, cloning, women’s rights and all those issues, just go with what makes the most sense knowing the fundamental message in all revealed religions is love.

All this love talk might sound corny, but I can’t help but cringe when I see women covered from head to toe, only their eyes showing, with gloves (cold or heat) looking like ninjas. All that because some men interpreted “not to display their adornment” to mean covering it all up because “we, men, can’t stand to see anything else but your eyes.” According to them, it’s temptation. Well, how about you blindfold your eyes and let me be! Because if seeing my hands is too tempting for you, then maybe you should check yourself. Nowhere is it ever mentioned to cover your hair. All is said is for women to dress appropriately to avoid wandering eyes. Now, to each its own way of appearing modest. Some might want to cover their hair, some might do it other ways. As long as it’s your choice, then go ahead. But I will be damned if A men tells me how to dress for him not to be tempted.

Anyway, you get my point and I’m stirring away from the message of this post. WATCH the documentary if you get a chance. Maybe it’ll be on the Internet too. It’s called: Inside the Koran and re-airs on Saturday Aug 9 at 1 PM; and Tuesday Aug 12 at 5 PM on the National geographicChannel

NGC examines the Muslim Faiths most sacred text and its messages of peace and tolerance- including what some perceive as justification for violent conflict and suicide bombings against US troops and their allies.

 

 

PS: Never watch a documentary like this with “know-it-all’s”. They keep yeep-yapping and telling you all about what they know (or rather what they think they know), and it’s hella irritating!

 

Peace!

M.

 

I swear…Im still alive

… Alive & Kicking!

I can definitely say it’s been ages this time… a month actually given the datestamp on my last post. Jesse is soooo last month. We’ve all moved to bigger and better things. I had disappeared for a while, for joyous reasons though. i think it’ fair to say, we’ve all been slow when it comes to blogging lately, coz let’s face it, summer is here, everyhting else is speedier. Who has time to blog?

So what’s new? not much. I haven’t blogged in forever, or read any of yours for that matter. School is kicking my behind, and work is too. How fun!

My 3 month old nephew is more adorable than ever, we now have full on conversations and he makes the funniest faces ever with his heart shaped lips…and looks as serious as his grand father (who he’s named after)… it’s hilarious!…

eVaDiva officially left the premises and went back to Dakar. I swear if one more person asks me how I’m coping with her departure, I’ll scream… (miss u though!)

There’s been a coup in Mauritania, but I’ve been a little too busy to keep up and I’m not sure what to make of it yet. Is it just a bunch of army officials pissed because they got sacked? or this has been planned for a while because of popular discontent? The first one is plain selfishness as we’re used to in Africa, the latter is more righteous. But how many coups do you need? Bloodless, yes, but still illegitimate. Senegal should be next. We need it bad (YES, I said it!)

 

Anywhoo! I’ll be back to lively-up this place! In the meantime, enjoy this great song I’m living, breathing and sleeping by all day, everyday. Don’t you just love Lil Wayne, he’s outta control, but a rockstar nonetheless! (TPain still bugs me though). Didn’t think anything could top Lollipop for me… this one actually did! And the concept of the video is taken from Inside Man, one of my favorite movies starring Denzel “FINE” Washington and Clive Owen.

Got Money? and you know it. Take it out your pocket, show it then throw it!

 

 

 At KP’s request, I’ve updated the “From my Ipod” page.

Till later, ENJOY when you can, ENDURE when you must!

M.

 

He’s a bad “Mother…Shut-yo-mouth”

SO, I’m taking time off from work to blog about this real quick. It’s been so outrageous that I can’t just sit back and let it slide. For those of you who don’t know, “Almighty” political activist, “defender and speaker for ALL black people”, Jesse Jackson was caught bad mouthing Obama on none other than Fox News this week. Once again, after Jeremiah Wright, Jackson’s exact words (while he thought the mic was out, like that can ever be an excuse especially on the TV set) :

Jackson made the comments to a guest before an interview on Sunday’s “Fox & Friends,” whispering that Obama was “talking down to black people” and that Jackson wanted to “cut his nuts off.”

Really! and that’s coming from a civil rights activist, who is supposed to be part of Obama’s team. It’s his inherent right not to approve and to criticize Obama, even not to endorse him if he’d like. But it is outrageous and deeply disappointing to appear this vulgar and tasteless. The remark made no sense whatsoever! What is there to talk about cutting off someone’s privates just because you disagree with one of his speeches.

If he was the grand man he pretends to be, he would’ve picked up his phone and raised the issue with Mr Obama himself rather than trash talking.

 

 

Bottom line, I think Jackson is a hater. And even Al Sharpton has never fully endorsed Obama. And by all means, don’t endorse him just because he’s black. They feel he’s not black enough or doesn’t represent blacks fully enough. Well Misters, that’s exactly what O’s intention. Not be someone who’s gonna cater to one race and not the other.He’s neither too black, neither too white. It’s the president of the United States they’re electing. Had he taken the same mistaken route them both took, well he wouldn’t be where he is, would he! And most someone remind them African Americans are still a minority in this country.

 

Lay off the hatorade and jump on the bandwagon… 

 Constructive criticism please. Otherwise, well just shut your mouth! Mr Jackson is IRRELEVANT anyway. So guess what, this’ll all be forgotten in the next couple of weeks for Obama. But Jackson’s legacy will forever be marred by this vulgar, irrelevant, jealous remark, just like him.

 

 

 

Laterz,

Dark & Lovely.

 

And then there’s…HANCOCK

 

It’s been ages my people!

SO… I kinda got dragged into watching Hancock yesterday. I love Will Smith to death, but from watching the previews, and given the bad critics, I was not even remotely interested in watching this one. Fortunately, (or unfortunately depending on how you look at it), the preview does not do the movie any justice. It is much more than what is shown from the preview but there is one big twist that you don’t expect and I guess they could not translate in the preview at the risk of revealing the whole plot.

There are heroes, there are superheores and then there’s… HANCOCK

 The movie stars Will Smith, Charlize Theron and Jason Bateman.

 

Of course Will is his usual funny self. Witty and full of hella funny one liners. Charlize is dazzling and out-of-this-world-sexy. (It’s almost unfair “creatures” like that even exist. She looks like a drawing (in a good kinda way!) Jason Bateman was actually able to stand his ground and didn’t get overpowered by Will nor Charlize, which is a great task all by itself.

 

GOOOO see it. You won’t regret it. I liked Iron Man better, but don’t just judge the movie by its trailer, because it is so much more than just about a drunk, fallen super hero. The twist is banging and what you see in the preview makes for only about a 1/4 of the movie so there’s much more to see… And trust me, there will be a sequel… So you don’t want to be running around looking for the first one next summer when that comes out!

 

 

“Hancock” drew $107.3 million over the 5 1/2 days since it began previewing Tuesday and officially opened Wednesday in 3,965 theaters, exceeding expectations of an $80-million haul, the studio said.

 

Enjoy,

M.

 

Pas Folle!… I would love to be with you together…

OH MY GOD! Im going crazy and loosing sleep over this song. I actually love the song. The lyrics? It’s something else… I received this  from a friend in Montreal while at work ( thx O.B.) and ive been watching it over and over and over again! I just can’t stop. For the french speakers… YOU HAVE TO WATCH this…you’ll die laughing!

Guinean music is one of my favorite… and this one tops them all.

 

 

My favorite line (I know it by heart now): Je l’avais pose ma candidature, elle m’avait assepte…

Un beau jour tres tot matin quand je me suis levé dans mon sommeil, je me promenais dans la ruiiie… je me suis meme approché d’elle et je L’avais posé ma candidature, elle m’avait ASSEPTé… je t’aime comme une fleur tres brilante… Est ce que poulet braisé a perdu feu, je dirais bien que non, il a deja ete grille..ti ris ti ris tiris ti ris…

 

LOVE IT!

 

Another TAG Game…

Was tagged by Eva… so here it goes

The rules are posted at the beginning. At the end of the post, the player tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leave a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answer.

1. What was I doing 10 years ago?

1998: I was still in High School, 11th Grade (1ere, à Jeanne DArc, for those who are familiar with Dakar). Probably supposed to be studying for my french end of year exam… but you know me and exams… never usually study much for them and pray to God it all goes well. I guess i haven’t had any major bummers yet, so I’m still doing that to this day. My day will come, I know that. Usually didn’t spend my summers in Dakar, how unfortunate now that I think of it, but at the time, all we wanted to do was get out of the country as soon as classes were over and come back on the first day of school. Oh I miss vacationing with all of my cousins (all 100 of us used to come and go at the same time and at the same place…those were the days)

2. What are 5 things on my to-do list?

Hummm..there are so many. I always putt off until the last minute then start scrambling…

I could send you my email inbox for a start. But honestly except for work and school… well, calling back the 100 million missed calls I’ve had this past week or two.. I’m so bad with keeping up with phone calls. Some sleep would be nice instead of going out to diners and working…

3. Snacks I enjoy?

Gosh, so many. First and foremost FIGOLU (that Ichoom sends me on a regular basis when she can, thank you milles fois meme si je me plains tjrs que ce n’est pas assez), Almonds, Petit Ecolier, anything with NUTELLA on it, pretzels, ICE CREAM: Haggen Dasz pine of Cinnamon dulce de leche… hum hum hum…

4. Places I’ve lived?

Dakar, DC, Geneva

5. Bad habits

Like I said earlier waiting till the last minute to do stuff… not so patient … Stubborn as hell and waaay too proud! (I’ve had so many remarks about “ma fierte mal placée, thank you very much!)… and apparently, according to some people I will not name, I’m loud, which I completely disagree with…

6. Things I’d do if I were a billionaire?

Set up my own humanitarian foundation, travel around the world with my kids and husband (not that i have any for now, and granted they’d want to come with me), going around the globe, do as much humanitarian setting up education, public health, and women empowerment programs…

7. People I want to know more about?

No one I can think of!

 

That was me in 7 questions…

M.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda!

(Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve… for the french speakers!)

On my way home from work yesterday, I stopped by Borders to get yet another Coelho. Ended up getting “By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept” (I’ve updated the “Readings” page). I found another book though by Ellyn Spragins: WHAT I KNOW NOW; Letters to My Younger Self.

If I HAD Known THEN, What I know NOW!

What if you were given the opportunity to put a letter in a time capsule and sent back to your younger self, knowing what you know now. Needless to say we all go through ups and downs in life and sometimes looking back on it we wonder why we reacted, said or decided a certain way. Sometimes you go through things in life and think the world is coming to an end if it doesn’t go your way. Everyone goes through ups and downs, yet we all tend to give way too much importance to the downs and take the ups for granted.

In this book, Spragins interviewed multiple successful, powerful, glamorous and exceptional  women. Each wrote a letter to their younger selves about life in general: Madeleine Albright, Maya Angelou, Phylicia Rashad, Queen Noor …to name a few (41 in total). In thinking about these women, we automatically think success, toughness, good choices and forget as fellow human beings they’ve experienced heartbreaks they though they would never recover from, betrayals in friendship, unwanted pregnancies, death taking a loved one prematurely, failure in professional life, changing yourself and clinging to superficial things to fit in… The letters get personal because each chooses a trying moment in their life and address the letter to that particular moment looking back with wisdom, calm and patience, advice you wish you had gotten. Basically, Knowing what i know now, you’ll be alright.

In the end, it’s not about making the right choice all the time, because if that is your goal, you will undeniably fail. It’s about knowing to live with your choices and letting them make you stronger, bigger and brighter.

 

What these letters offer… is hope- hope that those who read them will understand that there is a future where the road not taken is no longer regretted, and, in the end, the choices we make, make us who we are.

 

 

It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err. ~ Mahatma Gandhi

 

Till later, Endure when you Must, Enjoy when you Can!

 

HIStory…

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh….

Allright no results yet, but you can only imagine my excitement. I do have an exam tomorrow I have to study for… but hell, this is once in a lifetime event! TONIGHT’s THE NIGHT!

Forget the “Clinton-VP” talk and how she lost the nomination. Her speech was actually the worst she’s ever said: bitter, sour, sad, empty, irrelevant… It actually angered me how out of touch she was with reality. It’s like she’s the only one who hasn’t gotten the memo: HE WON! So please, let’s stop talking about “Who’s the stronger candidate” the people and the delegates have chosen and IT’s NOT YOU!. I actually think she’s the worst thing that could happen to women. I mean imagine next time a woman tries to run for office… Clinton has made her campaign so emotional, divisive, moody, needy and relentless (in an ugly way), such a disservice to women, it’s as if she did not realise this is bigger than her. Ultimately, he represented the African american race to the fullest. Winner or loser, the african american community would’ve come out of this victorious because of the magnificent campaign he’s run. Anyhow, strong arming the nominee to pick you as a VP is seldom an effective idea. By saying “the 18 mil people who voted for me need to be respected” #%^& Please. There’s better ways to go about it than forcing yourself onto a ticket. I was honestly starting to take pitty and thought maybe she might be a good enough pick for VP, then I listened to her speech and that reminded me, like I could’ve forgotten, how vile and bitter she is. Her speech and tone were both disappointing and infiruiating. For her not only not to acknowledge his victory, but to still claim she’s the stronger candidate is simply to dismiss the hisoric moment yesterday night represented. Grace is what she needs, and a reality check! A vote for Clinton does not ultimately mean a vote against Obama, so it’s not like he has to rally 17 million people from Clinton to him. Most of them would vote for him, some need more convincing than others, but they would vote for him against McCain.

There are so many reasons why he shouldn’t pick her: the Bubba effect (Bubba for Bill, his new nickname used in that unfair Vanity Fair article that is coming out in the July issue that he is so mad about, and rightfully so) he’s just too much of a narcissistic force; she sounds like she wants to fight Obama more than to support him, independents and especially Republicans hate her guts, and most importantly, she just represents everything he said he was going to fight against: old politics. How do you explain to your constituency you went for the one thing you claimed you would fight all throughout your campaign?

But, this night is not about her, it’s about him and the fantastic speech he delivered, as expected. He looked so presidential in the 20,000 people arena while McCain just looked pathetic with his 2000 people and his green “Leader we can believe in” ripped-off slogan. Obama got emotional at the end of his speech and I swear he looked like he was about to shed a tear. This is history in the making. Looking at the bigger picture, because this is bigger than Obama, imagine teachers, parents and minorities in inner cities and how inspirational this is. If he can do it, then maybe the system is not all that meant to just keep you and minorities down. I’m not saying it’s perfect and fair, but this makes it look possible. Who would’ve thought!

In the end, let us rejoice… Enough of Hillary! This is O’s moment.

 

 

Happy Bday Anderson… (I have such a crush on him.) And he’s 40 tonight!

 

Back to my “theory of Economics” studying… I’m nowhere near done. This is going to be a long night!

Tchuss,

M.

 

Cheers to Love & Fashion… Sex and The City

Fashionistas, Fashion Victims and Wannabees…

That’s mostly what we found at the movie theater yesterday night for the much anticipated Sex and the city premiere. There were about 4 or 5 guys in the theater alltogether, and we know what team they belonged to…nothing wrong with that!

 

I wasn’t really thrilled about going to see the movie because of the hype, the previews and the critics. I was expecting a chick flick with women screaming girl power… and that’s exactly what we got, except not in such an obvious way. The 4 women reunite and brag about the joys of New York City and true friendship. Kinda makes you wanna move to NY. Truth is, I thought the movie was great. Yes, yes I will admit it at the fear of sounding corny. I though it was a good movie,  much better than I expected. Now, if you went thinking you were about to watch a philosophical movie about life and its tribulations, then you were in for some major deception. But if you went to watch a lighthearted movie, with some heavy moments (breakups, cheating, betrayal…) with some cheering and some boos… the crowd kept ooohing and aaahing, then it was a great movie. And the fashion in the movie: my lord, the women just looked FaBuLous!

 

 

 Hum hum hum… Chris Noth aka Mr Big. Ohhh how a man in a nice cut suit can just make you go WOW! Something about him just does it!

Oh the pains and joys of love. Overall, it was a blast watching the movie and somehow, each and every one of us can identify with one of the character’s experience at some point in time. Jennifer Hudson plays Carrie’s funny and endearing assistant. And, on top of all, I have to admit, you come out of the movie thinking… Yes Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and oh so fair skinned Miranda made me think.

 

 

What did I learn you’d ask? NEVER SETTLE. No ones wants to be 40 and single. But still, since no one wants to go through divorces ( Eva sent me an article about how 1 in 4 marriages in Senegal end up in a divorce) and it’ll take the time it takes, but it’ll come. Know yourself and your value and love it all. Love and life with your loved one is complicated as it is to add doubt on top of that. So Amen to love, and Amen to friends that get you through hard times and celebrate you during happy ones. Now, there might’ve been other lessons, but what i got from the movie was mostly that… and cultivate true friendship. It’s all worth it…

I give the movie a 2 thumbs up and a B+. Everyone I’ve talked to so far LOVED the movie as well. So run see it! … And guyz too: no shame in sharping your game!

 

Ambition and a Good Attitude!

AMBITIOUS… such a loaded word!

So my morning at work started great. There’s been an email going around announcing internal movements and my name was in there. So I came to work to find a flury of emails and voicemails congratulating me. Feels Great! Then, I meet 2 colleagues in the hallways and one of them says, “well congrats, I hear you’re moving to bigger and better things. That’s great. I’ve always known you would be somebody and I wouldn’t be surprised seeing your name in some headlines in a magazine in a couple of years.” Nice compliment right? Until the other one drops “oh so you’re one of those?”… “One of what?”… “You know, ambitious and all”…

Luckily, the other guy replied, “no, she’s got her head in the right place and her heart is too big for that!”    … Otherwise I might’ve just ripped his heart out!

But I’m still mad as hell…

Like that’s a bad thing. I guess ambition has become synonymous to cut throat. People cringe and become weary of someone “ambitious”. Somehow, it’s not the first time I’ve been called that but it’s never rang such a negative response. Ambitious yes, BUT WITH a good attitude!

I was raised to become and want to become somebody. doesn’t mean I’m gonna stoop to malicious tactics to get there. It will all come at the right time and the right place with hard work and staying positive.

That was me ranting… Back to work now and to my cheerfull self!

 

“Give me a lever long enough, and I shall move the world. ~ ARCHIMEDES

M.

 

Soccer Balls & Basket Balls…

Oh the sweet smell of victory. Kobe and the Lakers done did it yesterday night. San Antonio lead during the 3 first quarters thanx to Parker (the ball player I hate most after Paul Pierce & Ben Wallace) and lead by as much as 20 points in the middle of the 3rd quarter. But that was counting out Kobe who all of a sudden transformed and made the Lakers, along with Pau Gasol, come back with an amazing 24-13… Any team that can keep SA from scoring deserves to win. So much for teamplaying Kobe, see how it WORKS!

And hey, Phil’s the coach, what’d you expect. I wish he gets his ring this year. That’ll shut all those who claim he could never do it without Shaq. And that’ll give me hope that DWade can do so as well.

 

Anelka and Terry… What have you done? I mean this was one of the best games I’ve watched in a long time. Really! 1-1 before the break, and same afterwards until they had to go to penalties. And they both played terrific games. Man Utd dominated the 1st half, and Chelsea the 2nd. They both deserved to win at that point but I’m not gonna lie, I was rooting for Chelsea. First off because it’s Drogba’s team, though he really messed it all up when he slapped Vidic. Second, because Man Utd got my team kicked out (yes, I’m still bitter about Barcelona not making it!).

Ahhh… so Anelka and Terry missed their penalties, and there goes our cup. The Reds have done it again, though C. Ronaldo missed his penalty too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oh well, better luck next year, and we’ll keep rooting for L.A. Hopefully, they make it to the end, WITH the happy ending.

 

Un-Be-Lie-Va-Ble, Barack in Oregon

75,000 people. That’s never been heard of. (Barack held the previous record, but that was (only) 30,000. It must be scary and empowering at the same time to be talking to such record turn out crowds. Secret Services must be pulling their hair on this one! 

 

                                                   

W.O.W.

 

 

The Greatest Silence: Rape in the Congo

I had the hardest time getting to sleep last night. I watched this documentary on HBO called The Greatest Silence: Rape in the Congo by Lisa Jackson. when I finally got to sleep, I dreamed of armed men with machetes and guns! Awful!

Anyhoo, the documentary was about an hour and so and it was already pretty late. Seeing these filthy pigs, wouldn’t even want them to lay their eyes on me, let alone hands or anything else. On top of being animals, they are probably the stupidest people you’ll ever meet. At one point, Lisa interviews ex Mai-Mai soldiers (who have been known for being the most barbaric of soldiers, along with Interharmwe fighters),  claiming they rape for power. Because according to their “cult” raping a women, gives you strength against the enemy. Though most claimed they would kill anybody who’d dare rape their sisters or mothers, some actually went as far as claiming that if it’s for other soldiers to get stronger, they would let it happen and not interrupt, for the greater good of the Congo. Well if that’s what it takes, then F#&k Congo. Really!

The biggest problem and the main reason all this violence is widespread is because it’s not just  Congolese rebels fighting the army, the Ugandans and Rwandans are part of the fight as well. And they’re all guilty. Do you imagine these men reintegrating society? They’re animals. There’s no way they sould still be breathing, let alone given a chance to get back to normal life. If you ask me, just drop a nuclear bomb on Congo. You’d kill these animals, innocents wouldn’t live in fear, and victims would be better off than to have to live with these scars. Because they don’t just rape, they mutilate, burn, cut off body parts and make their victims eat their relatives. Who’d want to live after that? Most of the atrocities are uncomprehensible. After you get past the explanation of men living in the bushes and having “urges”, you still can’t quite grasp the need to cut open a pregnant woman’s womb to kill the baby with their bare hands after they’ve cut off the husband in pieces, all in front of the kids to watch.

 

Winner of the Sundance Special Jury Prize in Documentary, this extraordinary film, shot in the war zones of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), shatters the silence that surrounds the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. Many tens of thousands of women and girls have been systematically kidnapped, raped, mutilated and tortured by soldiers from both foreign militias and the Congolese army. A survivor of gang rape herself, Emmy Award®-winning filmmaker Lisa F. Jackson travels through the DRC to understand what is happening and why.

 

 

Ways to help? Here are links to some organizations that do allievate victim’s suffering:

ON THE GROUND
Women for Women International – Restoring Hope
Women for Women International helps rebuild the lives of women in war-torn regions through financial and emotional support, job skills training, rights education, access to capital, and assistance for small business development. This Crisis in the Congo page includes links to personal stories of survival, a report on the status of women in the Congo, a fact sheet on the Congo, and updates on programs run by the organization.

International Rescue Committee – The IRC in Democratic Republic of Congo
This global network of first responders, humanitarian relief workers, healthcare providers, educators, community leaders, activists, and volunteers provides access to safety, sanctuary, and sustainable change for people whose lives have been shattered by violence and oppression. The website includes links to reports on sexual violence in the Congo, descriptions of the group’s humanitarian aid programs, and video and photographic reports from the region.

Human Rights Watch – Congo
This NGO aims to protect the human rights of people around the world by supporting efforts to prevent discrimination, uphold political freedoms, investigate and expose human rights violations. The website includes links to briefings and papers on war crimes and human rights violations, as well as a multimedia presentation on the Katanga province known as the Triangle of Death. For more information, read a report entitled Triangle of Death.

Panzi Hospital, Bukavu
Under the guidance of Dr. Denis Mukwege, the General Referral Hospital of Panzi offers treatment to the victims of sexual violence from all over the Congo. The website includes background information on medical treatment, psychological care, socio-economic assistance, and daycare for children of survivors provided by the hospital.

United Nations: Mission in the Congo (MONUC)
Established by the United Nations Security Council to facilitate the implementation of the Lusaka Accord signed in 1999, MONUC is authorized by the UN to ‘protect civilians under imminent threat of physical violence and contribute to the improvement of the security conditions.’ In 2007, the UN also created UN Action a joint initiative of 12 UN entities with the goal of preventing sexual violence and responding effectively to the needs of survivors. For more information, visit Stop Rape Now.

 

My Guilty Pleasure: The Bachelor’s Matt Grant

Oh My! I plead guilty! guilty as charged. I’ve stopped watching reality TV a while ago. BUT this season of the Bachelor got me glued to my TV every Monday night. Matt Grant, the British Hunk looking for love is the reason. I’m disappointed though, that in the end, he chose (who I think was) the wrong girl for him, Shayne. I mean he’s smart, funny, witty, successful and good looking and oooh..the way he dresses…, so why end up with the needy, immature, clingy pseudo actress from the cover magazines. Granted, I thought she was pretty decent, but still not good enough for him! He made it seem like he was looking for the real deal, but his decision yesterday night was the opposite of that!

Matty, what have you done?

We wish them well! There won’t ever be a better looking and funnier Bachelor, so this is the last season I watch…

 

Greatest Action Hero Movie of all times…

And the award goes to… IRON MAN. Went to see it this saturday night. I was screaming even at the end of the credits. Loved it! The movie had the 2nd best opening of all times, that’s gotta tell you something!

First off, as much as I love Robert Downey Jr (and I mean, luv luv!), I still wasn’t sure about him playing an action hero given his previous roles. But the man, outdid himself, as always. He was great, better yet… fantastic. No one could’ve played it better than him! The wittiness and sarcasm made him funny as hell!

Robert “Iron Man” Downey Jr…

 Overall, the movie is great, the actors (though my choice of a leading would’ve been someone other than plain-jane Gwyneth Paltrow), the special effects, the plot, the dialogues were amazing and Tony Stark’s humour is what did it for me…I loved it all.

On top of all that, what I loved even more was beyond the obvious great plot and acting, the underlying dilema Tony Stark goes through when he realises his weapons are actually not used to fight for peace as many arms dealer would claim, but rather inciting and into the wrong hands killing and destroying more than helping. So he goes from heartless industrial weapon marchant to building a conscience and decides to take matter into his own hands and repair the damage him and his company are responsible for.

Anyhoo, like I said… THREE THUMBS WAAAAY UP!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…

 

Exciting News:

May 13th…

“Iron Man 2“
Release date: April 30, 2010
Lowdown: This franchise has always been planned as a trilogy, and you can expect everyone to return and for Terrence Howard (aka War Machine) to get a lot more screen time.

 

 

 

Party’s over, Turn out the Lights!

Allright, no more Hillary bashing. I actually don’t have to do that anymore. She is toast…burned…done! I actually almost feel bad for her. …Wait…. naaaah! I don’t. It was about time. Everyone’s declared her demise, except for her. We don’t even hear Bill anymore. Boo hoo!

Anyway, time is not for revenge or stomping her. Victory for the first battle is done. Focus…focus. The long road to presidency is ahead, and i’m confident. McCain… really, McCain. Not that there is nothing to woory about, because his only way of winning is not trying to be more charismatic than Obama, to which even Hillary, the once hailed emblem of feminism, miserably failed. His path to victory is in default votes. Those that Obama cannot persuade, who even if a prophet endorsed Obama would not vote for him, for reasons beyond his speeches, policies and values.

Other than that… I still think he’s a favorite. Let’s hope he keeps running his campaign as he’s done up until now. no doubt McCain with all of his hot temper would not stoop to Hillary’s lows. Call McCain what you want, he’s proven above that. Or so I hope!

 

 

Mandela’s 90th Bday!

Just when his name was removed from the US Terrorist list (that was 2 weeks ago and Secretary Rice apologized for that!), to celebrate his 90th birthday, Madiba is going to be in London in June (27th). Proceeds will go to his Aids charity, 46 664 (his prison number) and performers will include: U2, Annie Lenox, Sugababes, Andrea and Sharon Corr, Eddy Grant, Italian star Zucchero and Spainish group Amaral, while Queen will perform with vocalist Paul Rodgers, Amy Winehouse and many other surprises!

Anybody who registers on the 46664 website before 1800 BST on Tuesday will be able to buy pre-sale tickets from 0900 on Wednesday, before they go on general sale at 0900 on Friday.

 

Wish I could be there!

 

 

In other news,

KOBE IS MVP!

 

Shut Him Up!

Can someone ask Jeremiah Wright to just shut up and go bury himself. The saying goes “When in a hole, STOP digging”.  Well, he’s still digging. The Obama Campaign should just shut him up once and for all coz this guy has done more damage to them than Rove, Cheney and Clinton combined! And no matter how much you distance yourself from him, he’ll always be linked to his campaign. And the media loves it! Well, Wright is getting his 15 minutes of fame. The man was on every major news outlet yesterday night!

What’s even more annoynig is that he seems to have an agenda. Unfortunately for him, I don’t think anybody will think Obama is throwing his pastor under the bus if he disavows him. BHO might even come out looking like a victim. The disappointing part is that it had to come from one of his own. But then again, any white person in their right mind wouldn’t be able to get away with these attacks. So of course, had to be a brother!

Wright also restated the idea that HIV was invented as a weapon against minority communities, had kind words for Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan and railed against American imperialism.

The media attention to Wright’s recent appearances has created another headache for the Obama campaign. The senator from Illinois is struggling to close out the primary season against Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (N.Y.) after losing key races in Ohio and Pennsylvania and seeing new doubts raised about his prospects in a general election against Sen. John McCain (Ariz.), the presumptive Republican nominee.

 

My Concern is that he’s not only doing a tremendous disservice to Obama, but also to the black religious community as whole, by portraying African American religious wing as unpatriotic and wild, as if Farrakhan and his nation of Islam had not done enough damage.

Just SHUT UP! ( What I really wanted to say was $%$ the  %^&$  @$, but don’t want to be vulgar)

Here’s what Obama’s response to Rev Wright’s latest. I guess, had he done tihs earlier, then it wouldn’t have gotten this far!

 

M.

 

Kobe (re) Rocks!

Okay, so I used to be the BIGGEST Kobe/ Lakers fan ever… until he started acting up and walking around all cocky and stuff. So, for the past 2-3 years, he’s been at the bottom of my “me likey” chart.

This video though might’ve gained him some points in my book. 2 weeks ago, he literally jumped over an Aston Martin (which happens to be THE car I could die for! Life is so unfair!) Anyway, look at the video. Then Kenny Smith re enacted the moment on the TNT Inside the NBA (Love that show). Hilarious!

 

 

Gotta love it! And since DWade/ Miami is not up for Playoffs or MVP, well let’s just call him Kobe “MVP” Bryant!

M.

 

 

 

 

Go on, Brush your Shoulder Off!

I knoooooow! I’ve been absent lately. Final exams and heavy work load are actually hitting me HARD!  it’s Friday, just got home from work, it’s 7:00 pm, about to take a hot steamy shower, put on my pj’s and SLEEP! SLEEP… Tomorrow is another day!

BUT before that, I had to post this video of none other than Barack. After that horrible debate on Wednseday (probably his worst debate ever, but then again ABC is mostly to blame for that), he was speaking in PA and just watch this. When Obama meets JayZ!

He got 99 problems but a B$#% ain’t one!  HILARIOUS! How could you vote against that?

 

 

Laterzzz,

M.

 

 

Cesaire n’est Plus!

I know I’ve been slacking lately when it comes to blogging, Just stopped by real quick (as if work is not kicking my behind enough!), I just learned Aime Cesaire passed away today and i honeslty didn’t think I’d react this way. I mean I knew of the man, his writings and I’ve even quoted him many times, but I swear it’s like someone close to me passed away! (je sais, je sais, wanée…merci)

Anyway, it’s a great loss and he will be remembered. Le 160e anniversaire de l’abolition de l’esclavage est dans une semaine et serait la platforme ideale pour commemorer son message, bien que ce soit Rama Yade et son mari qui president les manifestations. Au risque de m’attirer les foudres, cet homme commande le respect et la gratitude a l’instar d’autres comperes de la “negritude”. Je ne citerais pas de noms, mais on se sait!

Quick BIO:

 

Issu d’une modeste famille de sept enfants, Aimé Césaire étudie d’abord au lycée Schoelcher, à Fort-de-France. Grâce aux conseils d’un de ses professeurs, il obtient une bourse pour partir poursuivre ses études à Paris, au lycée Louis Le Grand. C’est là qu’il rencontre Léopold Sédar Senghor, avec lequel il fonde, en 1934, L’ Etudiant noir. C’est dans cette revue qu’Aimé Césaire emploie, pour la première fois, le mot qui, à lui seul, résumera son combat, tant littéraire que politique : la ‘négritude‘. A la veille de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, il publie le ‘Cahier d’un retour au pays natal’, texte fondateur à bien des égards, puis rentre en Martinique, pour y enseigner le français. La Seconde Guerre mondiale lui donne l’occasion de forger ses idéaux politiques, la Libération de mettre ces idéaux en pratique. Pendant plus de 50 ans, il mêle ses activités d’écrivain avec ses mandats de maire et de député. Et se bat à la fois pour la reconnaissance de la spécificité et la richesse de la langue de ses ancêtres, et l’indépendance des colonies françaises. Faire prendre conscience au peuple noir de la richesse de ses propres racines : tel est donc, depuis plus de 60 ans, le but premier de l’oeuvre d’Aimé Césaire. Une oeuvre à la fois littéraire et politique qui prouve que le rêve peut être le moteur de la réalité. Et qu’on peut, en même temps, être fier de son identité, et prôner l’universalité. En 2008, retiré de la vie politique depuis plusieurs années, Aimé Césaire décède à l’âge de 94 ans. Il reste une figure incontournable de l’histoire martiniquaise et l’un des derniers fondateurs vivants de la pensée négritudiste.

 

Ecoutez le monde blanc
horriblement las de son effort immense
ses articulations rebelles craquer sous les étoiles dures
ses raideurs d’acier bleu transperçant la chair mystique
écoute ses victoires proditoires trompeter ses défaites
écoute aux alibis grandioses son piètre trébuchement
Pitié pour nos vainqueurs omniscients et naïfs ! ” ~ Cesaire.

 

 

Six Random Things about Me!

Since I was tagged by eVaDiVa, I had to come up with a list of 6 random things about me. Hummm…

So randomly (Gosh, it took me 1/2 hr to come up with this…)

1. I listen to music absolutely all the time, any mood (happy, sad, melow)…first thing I do in the morning is put on some music, and that’s the last thing I do before going to sleep, something’s gotta play!

2. I like watching sports, but I don’t play any (my mom tried classical dance, let’s just say me and my pink tutu did not get along more than a month, so I played tennis for 7 years)

3. My twin brother and I were born on a Tuesday. Him at 11:59, me at 12:00, but I had to be re animated because his fat behind took too long to come out. Can you imagine I almost didnt make it!

4. I can count 6 six body parts I hate about myself…actually 7

5. I still watch cartoons religiously on sundays on the Disney Channel (Totally Spies and The Emperor’s New Groove are my favorite)

6. I suck my tongue when I’m hungry. (the ugliest thing ever, so you probably won’t catch me doing it).

 

There you have it. I had to post it before eVa made the list herself. Waneeeeeee!

 

M.

 

Africa’s Pinochet is going down!

Finally, Senegal has decided to act instead of harboring a murderer.   

BBC News:”Senegal’s national assembly has amended the country’s constitution to allow the trial of Chad ex-leader Hissene Habre.”

 

Hissene Habre’s regime is accused of widespread murder and torture. A commission of inquiry said his government was responsible for some 40,000 politically motivated murders and 200,000 cases of torture.

This man’s been living in Senegal since 1990. It was about time. Make him go through the longest and most humiliating trial ever, then just dismember the bastard! Same goes for Taylor.

 

According to a former death squad leader testifying at Taylor’s trial, the ex President ordered militias to eat the flesh of their enemies. Joseph “Zigzag” Marzah said Mr Taylor had instructed fighters loyal to him to even eat UN Peacekeepers to “set an example for the people to be afraid”.

“We ate a few [Ecomog soldiers], but not many. But many were executed, about 68,” Mr Marzah said.

‘Throw away the head’

When asked by defence lawyer Courtenay Griffith about how the militiamen would “prepare a human being” for eating, Mr Marzah described the splitting, cleaning, decapitating and cooking of the corpse with salt and pepper.

“We slit your throat, butcher you… throw away the head, take the flesh and put it in a pot… Charles Taylor knows that,” he added.

Mr Marzah also described how he had killed so many men, women and children that he had lost count, and also slit open the stomachs of pregnant women on Mr Taylor’s orders.

 

I have one word to describe these people: ANIMALS.  I almost wonder why bother with trials and tribulations!

 

War!

 

Un an plus tard, l’Afrique Repond à Sarkozy

This is a “frenchie” post. Sorry!

So un an plus tard, une poignee d’intellectuels africains, une vingtaine (Senegal, Mauritanie, Cameroun, Chad, Algerie, Madagascar, Congo…) ont décidé de répondre, au nom de l’AFRIQUE, au discours de Sarkozy en juillet 2007 a l’Université Cheikh Anta Diop (quelle ironie!). Le discours prononcé à  Dakar se voulait de donner le ton quant a la nouvelle politique de la France en Afrique. Bien que beaucoup s’entete à penser que Sarkozy ait voulu jouer au plus malin, je reste persuadée que son discours a eu l’effet desiré, et il est loin de s’en excuser. Ou Sarkozy peut il bien trouvé le culot de venir nous donner des lecons sur notre histoire et notre culture? Chez nous, en tout cas chez le chef d’état senegalais qui lui en a donné le droit.

Discours raciste? Evidemment. Raciste, paternaliste, conciliant, sournois, cynique et ignorant. Sarkozy, en gros! Et alors?  « [Le colonisateur] a pris, mais je veux dire avec respect qu’il a aussi donné. Il a construit des ponts, des routes, des hôpitaux, des dispensaires, des écoles. » dixit N.S. Daccord, mais encore? Evidemment, aucune note de repentance dans son discours et ca OUI, je le lui reproche. On ne ré- écrit pas l’histoire. Et cela vaut  pour les francais autant que pour les africains.

Oui, nous avions une civilisation, une histoire et une culture avant l’esclavage et la colonisation. De quoi etre fier. La question essentielle de nos jours serait quelle est la part des africains dans l’écriture de notre histoire d’AUJOURDHUI. Il est important de connaitre son passé et de le célébrer, mais rien n’est plus important que d’aller de l’avant et se concentrer sur son present et son future. Et c’est la que le bas blaisse! A en juger par l’état de notre continent (violences génocidaires, guerres fratricides, dictatures, gaspillage et pillages des ressources, persistance du pacte colonial…), les raisons de s’ennorgueiller et de se rejouir sont minces, pire, elles sont infimes.  Quelle part des dommages est a attribuer aux etrangers?  Quelle part attribuer aux africains eux memes? C’est une des questions posées dans l’ouvrage. Peut on reellement s’attendre, dans un monde capitaliste et gouverné par la course aux profits, a ce que la France, et autres nous aident ad vitam eternam?  On tend la main, et on se tire une balle dans le pied aussi en ayant des regimes comme en Guinee Equatoriale, Nigeria… Actually, toute l’afrique à l’exception de 3 ou 4 pays sur la bonne voie.

J’ai toujours affirmé que si j’avais été un pays de l’Ouest, je ne donnerais pas un penny a l’Afrique, en tout cas à aucun gouvernement africain. La colonisation, plutot la neocolonisation fait encore partie des facteurs qui nuisent au development de l’Afrique. “La tragedie de l’Afrique, c’est la trahison de l’Elite”, disait Césaire. Malheuresement, nous avons les leaders que l’on merite: roublards, menteurs, assassins, mecreants, voleurs, egocentriques, violeurs, atés… et j’en passe. Comment prosperer?

Au final,  peut etre que le sermon condescendant de Sarkozy , nous rapellera que notre future est entre nos mains et que l’aide au development en Afrique (en tout cas entre etats) est une grosse farce qui n’enrichit que les elites de ces pays (l’affaire Shell et nos ressources naturels, l’affaire des dechets toxiques en CI…). Evidemment la France nous coule, ca a toujours ete le cas. Le principe du neocolonialism est de pouvoir avoir accés et profiter des ressources des africains, MAIS d’africains independants et donc censés etre au controle de leur destin. Ce qui rend l’africain plus pitoyable que jamais a mes yeux.

 So, les cris de fureur et les denonciations, oui, mais à petite dose s’il vous plait. Si Sarkozy s’est sentie en droit de s’imposer en donneur de lecon, c’est parce qu’on le lui a permis. Wade etait assis a ses cotés et a meme acquiessé au discours de Sarko. A mon avis, une énieme source d’embarassement et à denoncer 3 fois plus fort que le discours lui  meme. Mais cela personne ne s’en offusque! Sarkozy n’est peut etre pas le candidat le plus enclein à  donner des lecons, mais lecon il faut . Esperons que le résultat final soit une remise en cause des africains et de leur future, plutot que se suffir à dénoncer et désigner l’étranger comme étant la cause de tous nos maux. En gros, élargissons le debat!

“ Le drame de l’Afrique, c’est que l’homme africain n’est pas assez entré dans l’Histoire (…) Jamais il ne s’élance vers l’avenir (…) Dans cet univers où la nature commande tout, l’homme reste immobile au milieu d’un ordre immuable où tout est écrit d’avance (…) Il n’y a de place ni pour l’aventure humaine, ni pour l’idée de progrès ”,~ SARKOZY, en 2007. 

“ ce bloc de sable et de cendre, ce morceau inerte et passif qui depuis six mille ans fait obstacle à la marche universelle ”~ Victor Hugo, en 1879.

___________________________________ 

Rien de nouveau… pas de quoi s’attarder. Aidons nous, respectons nous, ENSUITE,pourra t-on s’offusquer de propos pareils!

Retournez a l’essentiel, le débat que Nkrumah (Cabral, Nyerere…et autres) a commencé il y’a 60 ans est malheuresement plus pertinant que jamais.

M.

 

Champions League 2008 – The Last 8 Standing

VIVA Barcelona!

I wish, I just wish for Arsenal vs Barcelona for the final.  Could this be ’06 all over again? Oh the sweet smell of victory!

You’re going DOWNNNNN!

from www.footytube.com posted with vodpod

 

What is Malaria?