The world watched last week as 15 year-old X Factor USA contestant Astro had what he called "a moment" but most critics called a temper tantrum. After learning that he was in the bottom two and would have to perform again for the judges to decide whether he or Stacy Francis would go home. Brian Bradley did not feel that he should perform for people who had obviously rejected him. There were tears, attitude and for those of us who could see it, some deeply hurt feelings. Presumably, the judges saw his pain because they voted to keep him on the show.
Fans of the hugely popular talent show immediately took to Twitter and Facebook to let the young rapper know how they felt about his emotional display. Most were kind and understanding and offered words of encouragement but many were harsh and quick to tell him that he needed to grow up. They also felt that he should have been sent home... promptly!
Hopefully, the naysayers watched Tuesday night's episode of The X Factor USA and heard the rap delivered by Astro. He was terrific. The theme of the night was being thankful. His rap included an apology and a thank you to his fans, who've dubbed themselves "the Astronauts". He gave a shout-out to locales in America and around the world for supporting him in his quest to become the X Factor. He brought the energy and excitement that hooked his fans at his audition.
This fan was particularly proud of the teen rapper because in the end, he showed more maturity than the adults who accused him of being immature, a brat, ungrateful, disrespectful and a number other of things. Astro owned his mistake, expressed his regret for his actions more than once and returned to the stage and owned that as well with yet another original hip-hop/rap tune.
Watch a recap here
If those who were so critical of this young man had their way, this is what he would have learned from their comments.
-- No one makes mistakes
-- You are not allowed to express hurt or disappointment
-- Teenagers are expected to act like adults
-- You are not deserving of understanding and compassion
Luckily, he learned from the people who know that no one is perfect so everyone makes mistakes yet they can be treated with compassion even when they have shown their vulnerability by exposing hurt feelings. Hopefully, he learned that he should enjoy his youth and not rush into adulthood as that will come in time with loads of responsibilities that he needs to be prepared to handle but not at this moment. He has definitely learned to take responsibility for his missteps, apologize and move forward and be grateful for the people who are supportive of him.
Astro writes original lyrics each week instead of covering some else's material. No disrespect to the other singers (because I am a fan of Melanie Amaro, Rachel Crow, Marcus Canty, Chris Rene and Stacy Francis) but that takes a level of talent not possessed by most. The Astronauts appreciate his amazing talent and I hope that the critics can as well. And well... back up off the kid. He did show and prove.
Wave! Wave! Wave!
November 23, 2011
November 18, 2011
Tyler Perry explains his decision to cast Kim Kardashian in his movie
Tyler Perry sent a letter to his fans, and I am one, asking that we allow him to explain his decision to cast Kim Kardashian in his new movie, The Marriage Counselor. Basically, he is trying to appeal to a younger audience and, as always, impart some valuable life lessons including pitfalls to avoid. A quick glance through his message board reveals that his fans are loyal and plan to give Perry and the film a chance. There are fans who are not as flexible and vow that they will not see the movie because of Kardashian's participation. Even men are outraged over her perceived belittling of marriage. Kris Humphries only lasted 72 days after the wedding. What do you think about the controversy? My opinion is below.
Although I have never been a fan or watched her show, I have no objections to Kim K.'s appearance in The Marriage Counselor. It was a brilliant business move to cast her in the film because her fans cross all age, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries. That equals even more cross-over appeal than Tyler Perry has experienced thus far with his movies. People should understand that he is not only a writer, producer and filmmaker, but he is a businessman. With that said, I would be more concerned about how Perry is using his wealth and influence to give back in these difficult economic times. Many of the people who have faithfully supported his efforts by buying tickets to plays and now movies and purchasing DVDs are barely making it. Kim Kardashian having a role in a movie, lead or otherwise, is not at the top of my list of important issues. I understand some people's objections because of the way that she gained her fame and fortune but the fact of the matter is that there is a market for her willingness to put her life on display, obviously. Perhaps people should remember that even the most unlikely messenger can deliver news that will have a positive effect and change lives for the better. The Bible has many stories of God using the worst and most despised for something good. According to Mr. Perry, he is attempting to do the same. Viva Free Enterprise!
Although I have never been a fan or watched her show, I have no objections to Kim K.'s appearance in The Marriage Counselor. It was a brilliant business move to cast her in the film because her fans cross all age, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries. That equals even more cross-over appeal than Tyler Perry has experienced thus far with his movies. People should understand that he is not only a writer, producer and filmmaker, but he is a businessman. With that said, I would be more concerned about how Perry is using his wealth and influence to give back in these difficult economic times. Many of the people who have faithfully supported his efforts by buying tickets to plays and now movies and purchasing DVDs are barely making it. Kim Kardashian having a role in a movie, lead or otherwise, is not at the top of my list of important issues. I understand some people's objections because of the way that she gained her fame and fortune but the fact of the matter is that there is a market for her willingness to put her life on display, obviously. Perhaps people should remember that even the most unlikely messenger can deliver news that will have a positive effect and change lives for the better. The Bible has many stories of God using the worst and most despised for something good. According to Mr. Perry, he is attempting to do the same. Viva Free Enterprise!
September 12, 2011
Remembering September 11, 2001
9/11
September 11th, the year two thousand and one
The workday in America had barely begun
When evil descended from the sky
Causing thousands to be injured or to die
Those caught in the line of fire were innocent... just going about their day
A nation was horrified to see them taken in such a violent way
And as a nation, we mourned
While the attackers were vehemently scorned
Stories of loved ones lost are constantly being told
Some stories include heroes in the face of danger standing bold
September 11, 2001. We’ll never forget what happened on that date
Shaken? Sure. But this country is still undeniably great.
Encouraged
Tragedy far beyond anything my eyes have ever seen
How could anyone be so hateful, so callous, so mean?
Only God knows the depths of the horror the victims felt that day
Sacrificed for a senseless cause in a horrible way
An entire nation, indeed most of the world, shocked and dismayed
Frightened and angry survivors demanding that vengeance not be delayed
Days and days of digging... still thousands remain lost
The nation’s leaders vowing to apprehend and punish the attackers at all cost
A country in chaos, yet standing united, standing proud, standing strong
Celebrating the lives of those lost through candle light vigils, prayer, and song
We were rocked by these dastardly deeds, there is no doubt
We were knocked to our knees but we are up again and ready to show the
enemy that we are not out
Though the nation’s past is riddled with the temporary fall
We are sustained by a mighty God who sees us through it all
With a faith never ending, deep abiding, and true
Our citizens remain encouraged for we know what God can do.
Poems excerpted from "My Heart's Treasure" by Sunida York ©2005 All Rights Reserved.
September 11th, the year two thousand and one
The workday in America had barely begun
When evil descended from the sky
Causing thousands to be injured or to die
Those caught in the line of fire were innocent... just going about their day
A nation was horrified to see them taken in such a violent way
And as a nation, we mourned
While the attackers were vehemently scorned
Stories of loved ones lost are constantly being told
Some stories include heroes in the face of danger standing bold
September 11, 2001. We’ll never forget what happened on that date
Shaken? Sure. But this country is still undeniably great.
Encouraged
Tragedy far beyond anything my eyes have ever seen
How could anyone be so hateful, so callous, so mean?
Only God knows the depths of the horror the victims felt that day
Sacrificed for a senseless cause in a horrible way
An entire nation, indeed most of the world, shocked and dismayed
Frightened and angry survivors demanding that vengeance not be delayed
Days and days of digging... still thousands remain lost
The nation’s leaders vowing to apprehend and punish the attackers at all cost
A country in chaos, yet standing united, standing proud, standing strong
Celebrating the lives of those lost through candle light vigils, prayer, and song
We were rocked by these dastardly deeds, there is no doubt
We were knocked to our knees but we are up again and ready to show the
enemy that we are not out
Though the nation’s past is riddled with the temporary fall
We are sustained by a mighty God who sees us through it all
With a faith never ending, deep abiding, and true
Our citizens remain encouraged for we know what God can do.
Poems excerpted from "My Heart's Treasure" by Sunida York ©2005 All Rights Reserved.
June 10, 2011
RHONY - Oh Those Damn Blondes!
You know things are bad when Kelly is calling anyone "weird." She said it to Alex several times during tonight's episode. Kelly's a sweetheart, wacky, but a sweetheart. Oh, but those damn blondes! Baby, they can work a nerve!
Poor Alex... she needs to take Kelly's advice and just observe the altercations between the other women and not try to participate. Alex can't confront someone and come out on the winning end to save her life. She ends up standing there with her mouth wide open as the other person shuts her down and throws her out or walks away. Hey, Alex, you do realize you defended the woman who threw you out of her party just a few episodes back, right? Head check, please. I'm still in shock that she's modeling. On to the next damn blonde...
What's the chick's name who's so childish and rude? Oh, yeah, Sonja. You believe in a pecking order? Cindy should've pecked your a$$! You're all adult women. How about simply treating each other with respect? By the way, are you and Ramona more than friends? It appears that you are sharing more than friendship and Pinot. Now for the last damn blonde...
Oh, Ramona, Ramona. You can b!t&h it out but you can't take it. As soon as Jill lit into you, you melted into a puddle. Get a better body guard than Alex. Unless she can shoot out pepper spray while she's standing around with her mouth wide open, she's pretty useless as a means of protection.
Cindy, jump in there, girl. You were too quiet. Did you see how the Countess pulled shade on those blondes? You can do it just as well. There's no being reasonable with them. You have to come in swinging elbows, baby! Take your 15 minutes of shine instead of letting them get all the camera time.
Jill, love, love, love you, girl. You're standing up for yourself. Now that's the what AND the ish! However, I don't think you should borrow anyone's swim wear, dear. I really thought that you would have cut ties with Ramona after the way she spoke to you about your step-daughter during your auction but you must truly like her. Too bad. Even though she says she's going to be more considerate towards you, she won't. Selfish people are never considerate of others.
LuAnn, You handle yourself better than any of the other housewives. You take charge and you don't apologize for it. And, if anyone has the nerve to ask you to fall back or say sorry, you have none of that nonsense. The Countess is damn near gangsta! That's how we like it-- brass balls, no chaser. She can tell your a$$ where to go with class and style. Not one cuss word. She's good. Hey, Countess, can you teach a sista how to do that? Put those lessons on etiquette you give to the rude blondes on DVD. Bestseller, baby.
Seriously, though, the show didn't disappoint. I was entertained. Brunettes rock! Blondes, kick rocks.
Poor Alex... she needs to take Kelly's advice and just observe the altercations between the other women and not try to participate. Alex can't confront someone and come out on the winning end to save her life. She ends up standing there with her mouth wide open as the other person shuts her down and throws her out or walks away. Hey, Alex, you do realize you defended the woman who threw you out of her party just a few episodes back, right? Head check, please. I'm still in shock that she's modeling. On to the next damn blonde...
What's the chick's name who's so childish and rude? Oh, yeah, Sonja. You believe in a pecking order? Cindy should've pecked your a$$! You're all adult women. How about simply treating each other with respect? By the way, are you and Ramona more than friends? It appears that you are sharing more than friendship and Pinot. Now for the last damn blonde...
Oh, Ramona, Ramona. You can b!t&h it out but you can't take it. As soon as Jill lit into you, you melted into a puddle. Get a better body guard than Alex. Unless she can shoot out pepper spray while she's standing around with her mouth wide open, she's pretty useless as a means of protection.
Cindy, jump in there, girl. You were too quiet. Did you see how the Countess pulled shade on those blondes? You can do it just as well. There's no being reasonable with them. You have to come in swinging elbows, baby! Take your 15 minutes of shine instead of letting them get all the camera time.
Jill, love, love, love you, girl. You're standing up for yourself. Now that's the what AND the ish! However, I don't think you should borrow anyone's swim wear, dear. I really thought that you would have cut ties with Ramona after the way she spoke to you about your step-daughter during your auction but you must truly like her. Too bad. Even though she says she's going to be more considerate towards you, she won't. Selfish people are never considerate of others.
LuAnn, You handle yourself better than any of the other housewives. You take charge and you don't apologize for it. And, if anyone has the nerve to ask you to fall back or say sorry, you have none of that nonsense. The Countess is damn near gangsta! That's how we like it-- brass balls, no chaser. She can tell your a$$ where to go with class and style. Not one cuss word. She's good. Hey, Countess, can you teach a sista how to do that? Put those lessons on etiquette you give to the rude blondes on DVD. Bestseller, baby.
Seriously, though, the show didn't disappoint. I was entertained. Brunettes rock! Blondes, kick rocks.
June 8, 2011
Homeowners Foreclose on Bank of America
Check out this article and video where a couple gets to foreclose on Bank of America for illegally trying to seize their home for which they paid cash. It's about time they (the bank) got a taste of their own medicine.
April 7, 2011
Milk+Honey
milk + honey series trailer from brown paper dolls on Vimeo.
It would be great to have Debbie Allen back on TV in a series! According to the email I received, the scripted series is looking for a home on network television. The handsome Idris Elba is the executive producer along with the Brown Paper Dolls company (Dana Gills, Asha Kamali May, and Jeanette McDuffie). Lance Gross is a part of the talented cast. Gotta love that, ladies!
Let's help them make this show the "ish"!! LOVE! DREAMS! GO!!!!
March 19, 2011
Prayers for Candace
I haven't made a post in quite some time but I wanted to take a moment to ask for prayers for my beautiful 7 year-old niece named Candace, the youngest daughter of my sister Cindy and her husband, who is in an Intensive Care Unit following an ATV accident yesterday. A team of surgeons will be working to stop bleeding on her brain and repair other serious injuries. She may require skin graphs to her arm and other areas where flesh was stripped from her small body. She is enduring a tremendous amount of excruciating pain.
Normally, she is a fun-loving, feisty, super-smart little girl who loves learning and playing with her cousins. She has had aspirations of becoming an attorney since at least the age of five. She was always clear and frank about that. I have always been proud of what a remarkably astute and determined young lady she has been since arriving in this world. She pays close attention to everything and has a memory like a steel trap. She is an 'A' Honor Roll student.
I'm devastated after seeing her at the hospital last night. So, I ask those who believe in the power of prayer to please join her parents and big sister, Briana, family and friends who are praying for her full recovery without lasting or debilitating affects. She is a very caring child who attends Sunday School and church services faithfully and I know that if you needed it, she would pray for you.
Thanks!!!
Peace and blessings.
~Sunida
Normally, she is a fun-loving, feisty, super-smart little girl who loves learning and playing with her cousins. She has had aspirations of becoming an attorney since at least the age of five. She was always clear and frank about that. I have always been proud of what a remarkably astute and determined young lady she has been since arriving in this world. She pays close attention to everything and has a memory like a steel trap. She is an 'A' Honor Roll student.
I'm devastated after seeing her at the hospital last night. So, I ask those who believe in the power of prayer to please join her parents and big sister, Briana, family and friends who are praying for her full recovery without lasting or debilitating affects. She is a very caring child who attends Sunday School and church services faithfully and I know that if you needed it, she would pray for you.
Thanks!!!
Peace and blessings.
~Sunida
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