A Different Thanksgiving Perspective

While I know most of us in the African American community "Get2Gether" on Thanksgiving with our families out of the tradition of gathering. We must never forget our Native & Indigenous Family (whom many of us claim we have mixed in us) imprint on this European holiday; it should never be diminished because of the fallacies in historical interpretation. One must never forgo truth for comfort; The truth should always make you uncomfortable if your guilty. As Susan Sarandon said "Speak Your Truth, Even If Your Voice Shakes."

For More Read:

Thanksgiving: A Day of Celebration or Mourning for Native Americans?
http://racerelations.about.com/od/historyofracerelations/a/ShouldYouCelebrateThanksgiving.htm

No Thanks to Thanksgiving
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/National_News_2/article_9371.shtml?utm_medium=facebook&utm_source=twitterfeed

Uncovering The Myth of Thanksgiving
www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/Perspectives_1/article_6595.shtml

No Thanks To Thanksgiving
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/National_News_2/article_8344.shtml

Black Criticism vs Black Romanticism in Today's Political Climate

Corporate Interests Run America

Cornel West has held no punches in his intense and rigorous critique of President Obama. Many African Americans are very angry with the likes of Dr. West, Tavis Smiley, Boyce Watkins, & Julianne Malveaux for taking The POTUS to task on several key issues. However, as political constituents our duty is to question elected officials rigorously, and demand that they produce results in our interest. Other nationalities and ethnic groups do so.  It is great that we have the first elected African American President to sort of speak since John Hanson (first President of the Continental Congress) who was Black. However, we cannot allow romantic feelings cloud our political lens; luring us further and further away from self-empowerment and collective advancement especially the second time around.

I tend to believe President Obama has good intentions and desires in his heart to help poor and middle class people, but as Minister Farrakhan said when he was first selected [cough] excuse me elected; "I am under no illusion...," "he cannot truly do what is in his heart..." The powerful "Corporatocracy" influence engulfing him will not allow it. But, I say let's see he may prove his critics wrong, and represent the "Drum Major for Justice/Change," platform he ran his initial candidacy on.

However, the true ownness is on us to create and produce the change we desire to see in our neighborhoods. It has been stated that Black buying power will be estimated at 1.1 trillion dollars in two years; you mean to tell me we cannot pull together to create and produce a future? When you look at other nationalities such as the Chinese and Jews; rarely do they depend on government--they mainly do it themselves. We have to adopt this model in order to ensure a future for the generations to come.

I respect men and women like Minister Farrakhan, Dr. Bill Winston, & Sis. Nikki Henderson (The People's Grocery-Oakland) who present, create, and develop opportunities, that provide solutions outside of the false held notion of governmental dependency many African Americans faithfully hold on to. The Blueprints for our independence have been put before us for quite some time now. It is obvious as legendary reggae group Burning Spear said "No one remember Old Marcus Garvey," and the countless other "Great One's" whom came before and after him with the BLUE-PRINTS? The rise of The Sleeping Giant is IMMINENT!!!

Cornel West 'Goes In' On The POTUS

The New Slave Shoe... Chains & Shackles Remixed

"A test market of who or how many Africans are awake in the Americas, it does not matter we know that they are still sleep." ~Annini

Many people will ask, "what's the big deal?, it's just a shoe!"  "It's makes a fashion statement...," or, even worst when someone Black says "Who cares slavery is over and besides other Blacks sold Blacks into slavery."  What an asinine statement from someone who is not able to understand, and share genuine feelings of concern, for all of the pain and suffering our great-great grandparents endured while in chattel enslavement during the African Holocaust.

"JS Roundhouse Mids, dropping in August."

It is very saddening to note especially when someone who is Black makes such an absurd statement.  I can almost bet my last dollar, as guest columnist Tingba Muhammad noted in a recent column in The Final Call Newspaper, "It is almost impossible to imagine a Jewish person saying anything similar: 'Since there were Jews that financially supported Hitler, and Jews that were soldiers and officers in the Nazi army, and Jews that delivered other Jews to the concentration camps, I don’t want to hear about any Jewish Holocaust.'"  Indeed, such a statement is impossible to imagine to juxtapose the horror and ongoing effects of the suffering, pain and total destruction of a people.

Bottom line is, we have to educated, and teach our young people point blank not to buy into this buffoonery & trickery, like J-Cole said in the joint 'Nobody's Perfect,' "They killin niggas for J's, that's death over designer..."  At the end of the day, this is just another in a long line of signs, and as I like to cogently say "another kick in the ass!"  Time is long over do... WAKE UP & DO FOR SELF!

Food For Thought For The Faith Community Part 2

Spirituality is a way of excepting the fact that there is a spiritual force in the universe larger than all of mankind. But someone had to come along and invent a word called God. Then some had to serve another God and say mine is better than yours, and some had to create faith, someone said I have the true faith.”— Dr. John Henrik Clarke

The Three Faiths

The above statement by Our Great Scholar & Historian, Dr. Clarke makes one ponder and reason... the disunity, discord, and bitterness among "God's Chosen People," "Glory of God," and/or "The Human Family" that we the members of "The Human Family," are described as, in both the scriptures of the Bible and Qur'an. This disconnect, strife, and quarreling among those especially, who are Jews, Christians, and Muslims is so appalling that it makes me sick to my stomach!  Especially, in the present context of evil machination, mendacity, and moral decadence that we are all experiencing and being subjected to on some level today, knowingly or unknowingly; willingly or unwillingly.

WE MUST BE UNITED!!! WE MUST BE ONE!!!

I can see why so many youth and people in general are turned off by religion. The Enemy of us all is so deceptively wicked and wise that the world of religion and faith has fallen on its death bed! It gives no hope to a people yearning for hope and like Min. Farrakhan said "Even if God were to intervene in our affairs and raise among us a divine light for us--we would be in such darkness that the light would be among us, and we would not be able to comprehend the presence of the light..." So, true indeed...

Today, there is a crop of Visionary Leaders coming out of the synagogue, temple, church, mosque, and perhaps more importantly "The Streets," today, whom have not fallen prey to the Enemy's trick that will restore Right Order and Balance to this Planet once again... Time Is Now!

The God above will not refrain any longer from bringing wrath to this "hell of a place," which will destroy, and that is destroying the idea of evil machination, mendacity, and moral decadence on this planet. Making way for the establishment of a complete Freedom, Justice, and Equality to reign once again, wherein all people can live among one another under the banner of true Peace! -The Brotha

Coming Judgement

Universal Greetings & Salutations to The Members of The Human Family of The One God

God's Judgement

In the Bible it says "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows" (Gal 6:7).

And in the Holy Qur'an it says "So the evil (consequences) of what they did shall afflict them and that which they mocked shall encompass them." (Surah 16: 34).

In this time of spiritual unbalance and disunity, which has The People of The Book, and the World in total disarray.  The Scriptures of the Bible & Qur'an are both fulfilling themselves as I write. We are seeing strange and unusual weather patterns, economic collapses, rising violence, and all other sorts of other signs that an end is near.  The pressures of the wickedness of this world is causing havoc among all people, and in order to defeat this overt and covert wickedness--all people of good will and intent must unify!  The Creator will not continue to settle for our foolish quarrels and bitterness towards one another.  Throughout the various monotheistic faith traditions especially, we see strife inside and outside among these traditions; and it is hated by God that we would continue to engage in such rancor, while our common Enemy and his minions continue to run and rule this world.

Time is Running Out!

Those who are prepared to endure God's Wrath, will be those who have kept to their duty, and obeyed God's instructions. The very reason Jesus The Messiah entered into the world 2000 years ago was to give us the Greatest Example of obedience, preparation, servant leadership and brotherhood known to man that no other Servant of God could provide us.  We must be doers of the Word, and continue to follow in The Masters' footsteps.  The time has come in which The Prophets predicted and he (Jesus) confirmed that God would return to judge this worlds nations.  “And the nations were angry and your anger has come.... Rev 13:18 ABPE

Well, the war is on, now, and the forces of evil are fighting a last-ditch battle to hold on to power.  However, God is present now to remove not some of them, but all of them. -Minister Farrakhan

-More Next Time, God Willing!

-Bro. Lamon

*Inspired by various lectures, excerpts, and writings by President Thomas Jefferson, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad, Minister Malcolm X, Reverend Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright and The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan,

*The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings © is an non-for-profit organization of people who are students of various Divine scriptures and teachings who cross generational, religious, and cultural gaps to reveal the linkages between all Believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe regardless of your faith tradition, paradigm of knowledge and/or thought in order to promote Universal Unity, Harmony and Healing to all.

Scriptural Support & Literary Support:

And the Lord said, "Let My spirit not quarrel forever concerning man, because he is also flesh, and his days shall be a hundred and twenty years." -Genesis 6:3 CJB *Study chapter in context

And also the nation that they will serve will I judge, -Genesis 13:15 CJB *Study chapter in context

Say to them: As I live, says the Lord God, I do not wish for the death of the wicked, but for the wicked to repent of his way so that he may live. Repent, repent of your evil ways, for why should you die, O house of Israel! -Ezekiel (Yechezkel) 33:11 CJB *Study chapter in context

For there shall be another vision for the appointed time; and He shall speak of the end, and it shall not fail; though it tarry, wait for it, for it shall surely come; it shall not delay. Behold, it is puffed up-his soul is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith. And surely he, whom wine betrays, a haughty man whose dwelling shall not remain, who widened his desire like the nether- world-and he is like death and shall never be sated, and he gathered all the nations to himself and collected to himself all peoples. -Habakkuk 2:3-5 CJB *Study chapter in context

For the justice of God is revealed in it from faith to faith, according to that which is written: “The just one shall live by faith.” For the wrath of God is revealed from Heaven against all the evils and the wickedness of the children of men, those who are holding the truth in evil. Because a knowledge of God is revealed to them, for God has revealed it to them. For the secrets of God from the foundation of the world are appearing to his creatures through intelligence, even his power and his eternal Godhead, that they will be without a defense, Because they knew God, and they did not glorify him as God, nor did they give him thanks, so that they became destitute in their reasoning and became dull in their heart without understanding. -Romans 1:17-21 ABPE *Study chapter in context

But the righteousness of God is by the faith of Yeshua The Messiah unto every person, also upon every person who believes in him, for there is no distinction, -Romans 3:22 ABPE *Study chapter in context

Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow.  If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.  So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith. -Galatians 6:7-10 NRSV *Study chapter in context

THE LORD JEHOVAH does not delay his promises as people consider delay, but he is patient for your sakes, and because he is not willing that any person would perish, but that every person would come to conversion. -2 Peter 3:9 ABPE *Study chapter in context

And the seventh Angel sounded, and there were great voices in Heaven that said, “The Kingdom of the world has become our God's and his Messiah's, and he shall reign to the eternity of eternities.”  And the 24 Elders who sit before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, Saying, “We thank you, LORD JEHOVAH God Almighty, who is and has been, for you have taken your great power and you have reigned.”  “And the nations were angry and your anger has come, and the time of the dead to be judged, and you shall give reward to your Servants the Prophets and to The Holy Ones and to those who reverence your name, to the small with the great, and you shall destroy those who have corrupted The Earth.” -Revelation 11:15-18 ABPE *Study chapter in context

These are on a right course from their Lord and these it is that shall be successful.  Surely those who disbelieve, it being alike to them whether you warn them, or do not warn them, will not believe. -Surah Al-Baqara (The Cow) 2:5-6 *Study chapter in context

And they ask you to hasten on the evil before the good, and indeed there have been exemplary punishments before them; and most surely your Lord is the Lord of forgiveness to people, notwithstanding their injustice; and most surely your Lord is severe in requiting (evil).  And those who disbelieve say: Why has not a sign been sent down upon him from his Lord? You are only a warner and (there is) a guide for every people. -Surah Ar-Rad (The Thunder) 13:6-7 *Study chapter in context

“Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, that His justice cannot sleep forever” -Thomas Jefferson circa 1785

There is a higher court than courts of justice and that is the court of conscience. It supercedes all other courts. -Gandhi circa 1900's

"I call on the young men of America who must make a choice today to take a stand on this issue. Tomorrow may be too late. The book may close. And don't let anybody make you think that God chose America as his divine, messianic force to be a sort of policeman of the whole world. God has a way of standing before the nations with judgment, and it seems that I can hear God saying to America, "You're too arrogant! And if you don't change your ways, I will rise up and break the backbone of your power, and I'll place it in the hands of a nation that doesn't even know my name. Be still and know that I'm God." -Martin Luther King Jr, circa 1967

This is a time for me to examine my own relationship with God. Is it real or is it fake? Is it forever or is it for show? Is is something that you do for the sake of the public or is it something that you do for the sake of eternity? [voice rising] This is a time for me to examine my own, and a time for you to examine your own relationship with God -- self examination. -Excerpt from Reverend Jeremiah A. Wright Post 9/11 Sermon delivered September 16, 2011

Everywhere we look on the Earth, nations are angry. When a nation is angry, that's one thing, but it says, “… thy wrath is come.” The Wrath of God is something to be terrified of, because when God gets after you, He uses the very thing that we depend on for our life and our health and well being, and makes it an enemy to us. So, the worst person to get into a fight with is The God of Justice. -Excerpt from The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan at Life Center Church of God in Christ in Chicago, Ill., April 25, 2009

The full story behind Rev. Jeremiah Wright's 9/11 sermon

Reverend Jeremiah A. Wright Post 9/11 Sermon delivered September 16, 2011 in full context

*Torah, Biblical, Quranic scriptures taken from: The Complete Tanach with Rashi'sCommentary, New Revised Standard Version, Aramaic Bible in Plain English, New International Version, Amplified Version, Maulana Muhammad Ali English Translation of The Holy Qur'an, and Know Ouran.org

Traditional Thinking Pt 2

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord.  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. -Isaiah 55:8-9 NRSV

As we all journey towards our respective goals and objectives in life, never be afraid to step outside of the box of 'traditional thinking (a way of reason or judgement based upon relative experiences and/or ways that are rigid),' and/or 'groupthink (The practice of thinking or making decisions as a group in a way that discourages creativity or individual responsibility).'  Within our walk with God, we have to be unashamed of where He is leading us to.  Even though it may oppose and go against the traditional and/or normal ways of doing things; a person's character will ultimately determine how he/she interprets God's good, pleasing, and perfect will over their lives.  We can only leave the hindrance of our comfort zone behind through the shear difficultly of stepping out on pure faith. (Rom 12:22 ABPE)

Those around us may not fully understand or get our process, friendships may be severed, we may be mocked and scorned, but "If we obey what God says according to our sincere belief and moreover in His Word, God will break us from these traditional beliefs and patterns of normalcy that misrepresent Him."  Moreover if you and I stay true to God, God will see us through as He saw all his faithful servants through.  The life of Isa (Jesus) is such an awesome model to follow because he was the 'Ultimate Example,' by the way in which he walked and lived his life outside the box of traditional thinking, and more importantly by doing God's will (Luke 22:42 ABPE).

When Jesus came into the world, he was not loved in a world like this. If you really follow him, you will not be loved in a world like this. -Minister Farrakhan via Twitter 4/8/12

Our demonstration of obedience to God allows us to attain a better and higher level knowledge God; which ultimately provides us a better and higher level knowledge of Ourselves that is called 'self-mastery.'  We must be bold and willing to come to a position of giving up the traditions that hinder us and leap out on faith; "because Lord Jehovah is God, our sustainer and our helper; Lord Jehovah will give love and honor and will not withhold His good things from those who walk in perfection" (Psalm 84:11 ABPE).  Remain true to God, and He will see you through!  -More To Come Next Time, God Willing -Bro. Lamon

*Inspired by "The Supreme Climb," by Oswald Chambers http://utmost.org/ 4/26/2012 and Saviors' Day Part 2 lecture by The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan 3/42012

*Definition of traditional thinking constructed by Lamon P. Caldwell II (c)
*Definition for groupthink taken from Google Dictionary


*The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings © is an non-for-profit organization of people who are students of various Divine scriptures and teachings who cross generational, religious, and cultural gaps to reveal the linkages between all Believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe regardless of your faith tradition, paradigm of knowledge and/or thought in order to promote Universal Unity, Harmony and Healing to all.

More Scriptural & Literary Support:


When I call out the name of the Lord, ascribe greatness to our God.  The deeds of the [Mighty] Rock are perfect, for all His ways are just; a faithful God, without injustice He is righteous and upright. -(Deuteronomy 32: 3-4 CJB)

With the loyal you show yourself loyal; with the blameless you show yourself blameless; with the pure you show yourself pure; and with the crooked you show yourself perverse.  For you deliver a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down.  It is you who light my lamp; the Lord, my God, lights up my darkness. By you I can crush a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall.  This God—his way is perfect; the promise of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all who take refuge in him.  For who is God except the Lord?  And who is a rock besides our God?— the God who girded me with strength, and made my way safe.  He made my feet like the feet of a deer, and set me secure on the heights.  -Psalm 18:25-33 NRSV

Then Elihu continued and said: “Hear my words, you wise men, and give ear to me, you who know;
for the ear tests words as the palate tastes food.  Let us choose what is right; let us determine among ourselves what is good. -Job 34:4 NRSV

Yeshua (Jesus) said to him, “Why do you call me good? There is no one good but The One God.” -Mark 10:18 ABPE (See in context)

Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Fathere does, the Son does likewise. -John 5:19 NRSV (See in context)

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. -James 1:19 NRSV 

And your God is One God; there is no God but He! He is the Beneficent, the Merciful. -HQ 2:163

Mankind is a single nation. So Allåh (God) raised prophets as bearers of good news and as warners, and He revealed with them the Book with truth, that it might judge between people concerning that in which they
differed. And none but the very people who were given it differed about it after clear arguments had come to them, envying one another. So Allåh (God) ha s guided by His will those who believe to the truth about which they differed. And Allåh (God) guides whom He pleases to the right path. -HQ 2:213 MMA

Allåh (God)— there is no god but He, the Ever-living, the Self-subsisting by Whom all subsist. Slumber overtakes Him not, nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him but by His permission? He knows what is before them and what is behind them. And they encompass nothing of His knowledge except what He pleases. His knowledge extends over the heavens and the earth, and the preservation of them both tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Great. -HQ 2:255 MMA

Allåh (God) imposes not on any soul a duty beyond its scope.  For it, is that which it earns (of good), and against it that which it works (of evil). Our Lord, punish us not if we forget or make a mistake.  Our Lord, do not lay on us a burden as Thou didst lay on those before us. Our Lord, impose not on us (afflictions) which we have not the strength to bear. And pardon us! And grant us protection! And have

mercy on us! Thou art our Patron, so grant us victory over the disbelieving people. -HQ 2:286 MMA

Say: Surely my Lord amplifies the means of subsistence for whom He pleases of His servants and straightens (them) for whom (He pleases), and whatever thing you spend, He exceeds It in reward, and He is the best of Sustainers. -HQ 34:39

*Torah, Biblical, Quranic scriptures taken from: The Complete Tanach with Rashi'sCommentary, New Revised Standard Version, Aramaic Bible in Plain English, New International Version, Amplified Version, Maulana Muhammad Ali English Translation of The Holy Qur'an, and Know Ouran.org

'C'mon Son' (Metta World Peace)

According to Buddhist teaching, Metta (Pali) is a benevolence toward all beings, without discrimination, that is free of selfish attachment. It is a strong, sincere wish for the happiness of all beings.

C'mon son!!!

Come on my dude formally known as Ron Artest aka Ron Ron... we all thought you learned from your past dear brother. What a poor example of benevolent sportsmanship! But I suppose we all have to keep to our duty and renew ourselves daily in the Universal Divine Order of Peace & Equality! -The Brotha

Traditional Thinking Part 1

Traditional Thinking...

The prelude of my accepting my journey and calling in to ministry and attending seminary... WOW! I was fighting the modern day Jonah in me at the time! 4/11/12

This is in response to dialogue b/t myself and a sista who's in seminary school in NYC. We were discussing seminary schools, traditional religious thought and the Importance of Jesus. I thought it was so powerful that it should be posted Thanks for the insightful discourse sista!!!

Sistas words... "Most Master's Programs for Seminaries are diverse, this one is based on the Christian faith but the professors CHALLENGE you to look outside of Christianity to consider what was happening in world outside of Christianity. And, I LOVE that!!! I have seen many African American students that grew up in the Christian faith (especially Baptist, Pentecostal, etc) struggle with looking outside of Christianity because that's all they know...but it's a wonderful learning experience to do so

My response I've looked at schools all over the country to be honest. Yeah, many of us who grow up in the Christian faith tend to think just how you explained and it bothers me! I love the works of Christ and honor his name--however I feel our people are so fixated with Christ we tend to loose focus of the one who sent him. In my humble estimation, it gives our people a blurry view of the power of his works and the scripture he brought.

It bothers me how some clergy teach Christ as some passive figure who didn't stand up for what he was sent to do and fulfill. I guess some would say I'm a radical Believer like a Nat Turner, Dr. King in his last years, or Min. Malcolm X. However so, change only comes from the force and power of truth and Christ was the greatest example of that!!!

Sistas words... "I am so feeling what you are saying! YESSSS!!! People forget about God...and the power of God. And, Jesus is a powerful figure because he stood of for JUSTICE and TRUTH... and was radical about it!

I did a paper for one of my classes entitled "Exposing Repression through Redaction using Exegesis" where I talked about how the biblical text has been redacted so much by people that it was used as an oppressive tool for many people especially women. More specifically, denying the presence of femininity of the deity...where women could relate to God. God, as portrayed by the biblical writers, is the forceful, powerful male figure/deity that judges, etc... and the question is... Is that REALLY who God is?

After being exposed to greater theological thinking, it just scares me to know how much stock people put in the Bible... that was written by man... than the God that gives us the faith to achieve anything that we want."

My response WOW!!! Powerful... and I'm feeling u too!!! Many people forget about how scripture has been used to oppress, suppress, depress, and subjugate people to away of thinking that is in direct conflict with the scriptural teachings. For instance, I have disagreements with the work of some Missionaries in Indigenous lands. The Bible has been used in many cases to pimp the people!

Although, I believe a new paradigm shift is happening in religion because those who were once asleep are now beginning to see scripture in context outside of what has been the norm. Those who have been in control are scared of this new shift and that's why I believe the stakes have raised recently on a spiritual level...

I'll get off my soapbox and not get to deep!!!

However, many forget it was God who gave Christ the power and authority to do the things he did. We believe that Christ "paid it all," when he died for us... but that is only half of the story... he did pay it all for us however we still have to work and show ourselves approved!!! It's the walk, the carrying of our own cross and I think we forget that half!!!

Sistas words... "So, true. Preachers must realized that they cripple people more with traditional thinking rather seeking out new knowledge. Wow! You've said a lot. It's okay... I was on my own soapbox earlier with my friends. LOL It seems like you will be a great asset to whatever seminary you attend. Because you are coming in the door with an open mind. And, that's WONDERFUL!!!"

Comments about the blog:

Krystal with an "E" writes:

I don't belive that I have enough words in my vocabulary or a substansial amount of room to write how I felt reading this astounding blog!

But I will say that if we as the "African-American", "Black", "Minority", "Melenan-Abundant", "Challenged Race", Or the human race period; if we would have discussions more about serious topics like this we would find less times for all that other non-sense.

Keep expressing your self brother.

Bro. Hydrofuse writes:

I concur to the fullest!!! Man, we are the true leaders of our community! First, we must attempt to heal ourselves mentally, spiritually, physically, socially, and economically. Secondly, we must not discrimate against any help or calls for assistance from any one making an attempt to better themselves. I love my race, but it's too many so called bro's holding down the one that really wants a positive change in his or her life. Man, we can speak eloquently and make all types of conversation, but until we make a clique or build a school, farm, more media or t.v. stations, and unite the common blackman in Africa and all over the world, we are wasting our time. I believe securing land and a strong diet is the first step in awaking the sleeping lion in the black man

Circa April 2006 Lamon Caldwell II

March is National Kidney Month!!!

As National Kidney Month and my Birth Month comes to a close, The Brotha takes time to reflect on his newly received "Gift of Life," given to him October 28, 2011 approximately 3:00 p.m. Chicago Standard Time (*Smile).

First let me say words cannot not even begin to express my deep, deep appreciation and deference for the love, care, support, positive thoughts and prayers by my family and friends; and those I do not know personally, which have been and continue to be poured out into the grand universe openly and privately for me.  I am indeed "blessed and highly favored," as we like to say in the church!  It has been a long five and half year journey on dialysis and nonetheless, I was not able to see it through solely based upon my own power and strength; but through the power and strength of the One God.  The same power and strength He gave to Yeshua (Jesus) and all of His servants throughout the Holy books of both the Bible and Qur'an.

In May of 2006 while living in Tampa, FL my life would change for ever as I was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease.  It was socking because there was no specific cause as I had never been sick and was a known health nut!  It would be the beginning of a long five and half year journey.  Many of you who "straight up" know me, know me to be a very private and internally strong person; who rarely complains or makes any fuse about my life and what I have endured.  For awhile, I would never discuss my condition in detail openly, and I kept it strictly among a close circle of friends and family, and even they may say I was reluctant to share all the details with them (*Smile)!  It was not until upon being revealed to me through several conversations over the years, which served as confirmation that I needed to share my story more often.  Thing is, I knew this was the case going into my sixth month on dialysis especially after I was able to see how many lives I was touching during that time by simply being positive and encouraging.  It took me to a place of complete humility that allowed me to surrender my self to say "It ain't all about me, anymore."  It became all about my duty as a servant leader who has been blessed with superabundant gifts, talents, and abilities that I was negligent in not fully sharing them with others.

Now, keep in mind this coming from a dude who has played D1 and D1AA collegiate football, had a brief stint in pro football, traveled all over the US and parts of the Caribbean, started a potentially lucrative business with a long time childhood friend, hung out it in cities like South Beach, Hollywood, and New York City rubbing elbows with the who's who in sports and entertainment.  For these reasons, many would say based upon perception that I was "living the good life," but as the young people say, "Not, you doin' way too much!"  I like to turn it around and say, "I was doing way too much of nothing when it really came down to it."  I was not walking in my purpose plain and simple because I was too busy trying to get away like Jonah, in the biblical account! Nonetheless, I am thankful for the experiences as they were necessary in the process so I can never down play the valuable lessons that I learned.

Your Arms Are Too Short To Box With God

Many suggests that being the recipient of a transplanted kidney is sort a like receiving a "second chance," and I agree it sure is! However, I must take it a step further; I see it not only as a "second chance," but as a mission.  A mission that puts me on "blast," as we say in hip hop culture.  A mission that lines up with why I was born into this world and what I am supposed to be doing in my life of service.  I cannot not run any longer or even stand a chance in trying to box with the Universal Power and Force of all living things.  As the title of the early 80's Broadway musical suggested, "Your Arms Are Too Short To Box With God!"  With that, I humbly submit!

Currently, The Brotha overall is doing very well as I get acquainted with this new "Gift of Life," heading into the fourth month of my post-kidney transplant process.  The new kidney is working like The Creator intended it to work through His active, perfect and permissive will!  Since late February, I have been dealing with an infection known as CMV infection, which is common among many transplant patients during the first few months after receiving a transplant.  The medication I was prescribed has not been working fast enough to remove the infection out of my body, and I was admitted last night to be switched to a different medication through an IV.  Of course, I was not happy about this but I had to "fall back" because I am not in control of the Master Plan.  I am only responsible for carrying out my divinely given and appropriately appointed assignment(s)!  Although at the hospital as I write this piece and in spite of the recent set backs in my life overall these past few weeks, I remain steadfast and unshakable!

Peace & Success Indeed,

-Bro. Lamon aka Dubie, Big L

Your Minute bka God's Minute

"I have only but a minute only sixty seconds in, forced upon can't refuse it, didn't seek it, didn't choose it.  It is up to me to use it. I must suffer if I lose it. Give an account if I abuse it, just a tiny little minute but all of eternity is wrapped up in it." -Dr. Benjamin E. Mays as recited by Tavis Smiley

Original Version:

I've only just a minute,
Only sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me, can't refuse it,
Didn't seek it, didn't choose it,
But it's up to me to use it.
I must suffer if I lose it,
Give an account if I abuse it,
Just a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it.

By Dr. Benjamin E. Mays

Our Little Brother Trayvon Martin! No Justice, No Peace!

There is really nothing more to be said in this matter, the brotha will let the visual aids speak!!!

Peace indeed to the family of Our Lil' Brother Trayvon, and May Allah (God) be pleased with him!

What is a Black Life worth in 2012? What is the life of the disenfranchised, poor and oppressed worth?

                                  Did you forget about Mrs. Mamie Till's baby boy Emmett? 1941-1955

 I know you have not forgotten about Mrs. Mamie Till's Baby Boy?

                                                                 Trayvon by Jasiri X

                                            
                                                           Strange Fruit -Billie Holiday

Are You Exhausted Spiritually, Yet?

Exhausted 

"Put all the cards on the table...," "Lay it on the line...," "Sell out,"and "Leave it all out on the field!" are quotes that many of us have heard in some form throughout our life time especially if you have ever been an athlete or in sales.  We whom put our lives to use doing God's business of serving humanity must realize that these well known quotes hold significant meaning for us also.  The choice one makes to be a servant leader is not a lightweight type of decision from one to make.  It means long hours, going where no one else will go, doing what no one else would do, and giving yourself over to spiritual exhaustion.

As a servant leader, or one who is a Representative or Ambassador of The Most High you become the source who is the catalyst for one's spiritual growth and development on earth.  In chemistry a catalyst is a substance that causes or accelerates a chemical reaction without itself being affected.  Moreover, those of us in ministerial leadership are the bearer's of Good News from the Originator who is the Source that supplies all of our needs.

"Jesus the consummate (servant leader) washing a man's feet"

In realizing this relationship that we in servant leadership must bear good information that feeds the minds and comforts the souls of the people so they will learn to apply it to their daily lives; we must be committed with the same selfless passion that Jesus and other great men and women of God have exhibited, throughout the ages.  If we are willing turn ourselves over to be completely exhausted to the cause of service, or as Chambers notes "The process of being made broken bread and poured-out wine means that you have to be the nourishment for other people’s souls until they learn to feed on God.  They must drain you completely—to the very last drop."

"You can't save people if you don't serve people, and you can't lead people if you don't love people." -Tavis Smiley remarks at Congresswoman Julia Carson's Home-going Service

-More To Come, Next Time; God Willing! Peace & Success Indeed

-Bro. Lamon

http://utmost.org/are-you-exhausted-spiritually/  accessed February 9, 2012


****The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings is an organization of people who are students of various Divine scriptures and teachings that cross generational, religious, and cultural gaps to promote unity, harmony and healing that reveals the linkages between all believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe regardless of your paradigm of knowledge and thought. Est. 2006, 2012 (c)

Scriptural & Literary Support:

Tanak (Torah) Yeshayahu (Isaiah) 40:28-31

Do you not know-if you have not heard-an everlasting God is the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth; He neither tires nor wearies; there is no fathoming His understanding.

Who gives the tired strength, and to him who has no strength, He increases strength. Now youths shall become tired and weary, and young men shall stumble. But those who put their hope in the Lord shall renew [their] vigor, they shall raise wings as eagles; they shall run and not weary, they shall walk and not tire.

Tanak (Torah) Tehillim (Psalms) 87:7

And singers as well as flute players, all my innards (internal workings) are concerned with you.

Gospel (Injeel) 2 Corinthians 3:1-6 (NRSV)

Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Surely we do not need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you or from you, do we? You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all; and you show that you are a letter of Christ, prepared by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are competent of ourselves to claim anything as coming from us; our competence is from God, who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

Quran 2:87

And most certainly We gave Musa (Moses) the Book and We sent apostles after him one after another; and We gave Isa (Jesus), the son of Marium (Mary), clear arguments and strengthened him with the Holy Spirit...

Quran 2:148

And every one has a direction to which he should turn, therefore hasten to (do) good works; wherever you are, Allah (God) will bring you all together; surely Allah has power over all things.

Ouran 6:73

And He it is Who has created the heavens and the earth with truth, and on the day He says: Be, it is. His word is the truth, and His is the kingdom on the day when the trumpet shall be blown; the Knower of the unseen and the seen; and He is the Wise, the Aware.