My Open Letter to President Barack Obama

Dear Mr. President,

I hope you and the First Family enjoyed your Easter. There have been relentless requests made of you lately. Some suggest that you may not be the rightful holder of your position. On behalf of our fellow US citizens, I would like to apologize for the blatant ignorance and disrespect shown to you. Never in my life have I witnessed such behavior from those who claim to be patriotic, lovers of our country and staunch supporters of the values and principles America was built on and stands for. Never have I observed pursuits for disqualifying factors with any other elected official - much less a United States President - to this degree. It frustrates me that you have to endure this, but as many other 'firsts' in our American history, senseless hardships are expected; and thus, the offenses made against you (and your family) are par for the course. I have done my best to avoid injecting the possibility of racially targeted attacks on your character, integrity and citizenship - basic qualities normally assumed of your Office. Unfortunately, those denying racial intent are turning a blind eye to this reality.
It is my hope that those carrying out these calculated attacks are part of a dying breed. It's a shame and I am ashamed of what I've seen by other Americans.

I suppose those who question your existence have pushed you to expose areas of your life that, under normal circumstances, would remain private (or at least not surrendered in this fashion).

So, now the entire world has a copy of your birth certificate:

http://1.usa.gov/fLR7nu (http://www.cnn.com/interactive/2011/04/politics/interactive.obama.birth.certificate/index.html?hpt=C2 see pp. 1-6).

I really wish you did not have to do this, but thank you for obliging. Hopefully, we can keep things moving along. No checkbook could pay for the truth. No one having access to large amounts of money should assume that wealth trumps the political process.

I wonder what will be asked for next. Perhaps demands for DNA samples? I wonder if they realize that no matter how ridiculous their accusations become, you (and those who believe in what your office is trying to accomplish) will not be distracted. I know you are aware of this, but I feel compelled to remind you that there are so many people praying for you; praying that you are not only safe, but secure, confident in your responsibilities, and focused on the tasks ahead. I may not personally agree with every aspect of my President's agenda (past Presidents included), but I respect the office. Now, only if others subscribed to that basic level of respect you deserve.

So Mr. President, I hope these menial requests don't discourage you too much. Please continue to work on our country's unemployment, economy, and education system. I don't want to sound bossy (I've been accused of that), but can you also continue working on phasing out the wars declared by your predecessor? I know that a Commander-in-Chief needs to do this strategically. Oh, one more thing: the gas prices are really becoming outrageous. Whatever you can do to bring fuel costs down (if anything) would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

Reflections...Short & Sweet!

As I prepare to bring in the 2011 New Year, I can't help looking back at the year 2010. I am so appreciative for the beautiful people in my life. From the childhood friend (that I attended pre-school with) having lunch with me this week; to the college friend (and sorority sister) that crashed at my home for a few days; to the elderly friend that I made while buying items from the drug store. He couldn't help but share how blessed he was to have his wife for 52 years and isn't sure if he can make it without her...I could go on and on about how important my network of friends is to me. I love you all and I am so blessed to have each of you in my life!

(not going to cry)

I can't explain the type of excitement I'm feeling right now, but I like it. I am thankful for the confidence (not arrogance) that God is allowing me to experience, and I will continue to pray for a still and quiet strength into and beyond 2011. I will continue to pray for those around me (near and far).

(crying-happy tears)

We all have so much to be thankful for. As you reflect and anticipate remain thankful, and join me in growing in the following areas:

Patience

Consistency

Giving

Completion

Can you think of more? Add them...

and...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Adventures in the Life - Hiking (Yup...We Do That Too)!

A couple of weeks ago, my friend, and sorority sister, invited me to go hiking with her. Initially, I thought hiking would be something different for me - maybe even fun. After all, I enjoy the outdoors, animals, etcetera. Of course I love the camaraderie and social aspect as well. However, I had no idea how much of a physical workout it would be! And oh, what a workout it was. Henceforth now and forever, Billy Goat Trail A in Great Falls, MD will be known as the 'Plateau Breaker' and I got my plateau broken. In fact, I am still patching it together (along with my sore thighs, arms, back, blistered feet and ankle).

I digress.

The first visit to the trail was more "adventurous" than my subsequent visits.
We (my Soror, a friend of her's and I) completed the trail. I think one of my lungs collapsed - no, seriously - and I left feeling defeated. And to add insult to injury [literally], we got lost getting back to the car. The sun set...I walked part of the way alone (and afraid), saw a dead snake and could hear wildlife in the wild life...I...was...scarred! So (after catching up with my hiking companions) we finally made it to the car - thanks to my Soror for running ahead to get the car!

I'll admit, my first try left me with more than bruised body parts. I had a bruised ego. I went into my first hike as a rookie in true form -- ill-prepared. I wasn't appropriately equipped. I didn't have enough water or food, and I didn't eat enough before getting to the trail. Did I forget to note that it was 90+ degrees that day, and we started the hike after 3 pm (the hottest time of the day)? I spent a good part of the week healing my aching body (with ointment and ibuprofen), spending a lot of time in the sauna and steam room(s) and reminiscing on how athletic I used to be - envisioning that once athletic version of myself emerging during the next hike...what, can't a girl imagine?

Wait, did I just subconsciously commit to doing that again?! Damn! Well, I am a glutton for punishment (on so many levels, but that's another blog).

The next time though, I vowed to arrive to the trail in the morning, have water and snacks, and invite a group to hike with me; and that's exactly what I did. To my pleasant surprise, I completed the trail like an experienced explorer, and was surrounded by an awesome group!

I was so excited to have been able to, not only take advantage of the hike's workout, but to also enjoy the scenery and make new friends --like Georgia, a very friendly and affectionate Lab!

Perhaps, this hike will be a weekly or semi-weekly thing? We can start a group. What do you think of the name: "We Do That Too?" Either way, I'll be back to Billy Goat Trail A, and I may venture to trails B through D...who's with me?!