THEY ARE TALKING CHANGE: DOES THAT MEAN PEACE AND LOVE?

My Brothers Keeper

The love of my creator has truly been manifested in my life. I recently, have been able to fulfill some of the plans I made, to spend time with the people I love; after suffering from a recent ailment. It began immediately after returning from the hospital and being able to be with my family again. It continued, when I was able to return to work and resume my career.

I recalled the event of being able to spend time together with my son, in the sports part of this blog. It turned out to be, more of an event than our previously planned outing that I missed. We had an opportunity to meet a former Knick player, get an autographed jersey and see the shoot around from some really great seats.

2008 is getting even better. I recently went out with my best friend (brother) and his wife and family; along with my wife and family. We saw a movie and went out to dinner. The movie turned out to be about second chances. It really was about fifth, six, and seventh chances. Spending time with my brother and his family was truly special. We are brothers who have a lifetime of memories together. We have spent time together on many occasions. However, being able to get together again and to continue our relationship was very endearing to me. It also, was about having second chances.

The funny thing is if you did not know us, and observed us from afar. On most occasions, you would think that we really did not get along very well. We would argue after having won a game of cards, basketball, pokeno, or anything else, you may think of. We were/are very competitive at anything, we were involved in. However, no matter the argument, even after being angry with each other; I never can recall a time when I did not love him as much as I loved anyone.

I felt a need to write this article, at this time, because brotherly love seems to be such a rare commodity during this day and age. We all remember the story of Cain and Abel. They were two brothers; one killed the other because one was jealous of the other. I believe the world would be at peace, if we as brothers and sisters, could get beyond our differences, jealousness and feelings of inadequacies. I learned at a young age, that if you want something in this world, you have to work for it. The life I lived was never easy; I worked hard all my life.

The one thing I knew was never lacking, as I grew older was the Love. I knew if we were ever short of sugar, or oil, my mother added love. I knew if I fought with my sister or brother, I knew in my heart I still had love. Now as an “adult” with a wife, and children; I have my “occasional” disagreements with my wife, family and friends. But, my experiences have made me wise. We will always have disagreements with family, friends and enemies. And we all may face times of anger or resentments. But, no matter what problem you face, the answer to the question that Cain posed to our creator; which was 'Am I my Brothers Keeper'? The answer should be, Yes.

We all have to remember that forgiveness is not only a blessing to the receiver. It is also, the balm that heals the giver. We are not always the best judge of who is wrong or right. I have argued with my brother on many occasions, if the basketball was outside of the foul line or not. We argued many times whether it was a ball or a strike. We argued many times. We disagreed, we said our peace; and then we kept it moving.

I am blessed that we remain friends, as well as family all these years. I have learned some lessons from our past. I hope the reader of this article, will take away from it, just one thing they may recall from their past or present situations, involving family or relationships they have. Try to remember, to be the one, “who is the keeper of the Inn”. Be the one that makes the peace, others will learn from your example.



Poet’s Corner

It was the way they played themselves that caused the reaction in my heart,
Don’t act like you’re a player, Until you study for the part.

You thought you were the One, the apple of my eye,
It seems as though you were, Until you made me have to cry.

Your innocence betrays the character of your heart,
It’s the darkness of your soul that is tearing me apart,

You called my name; I responded and felt a need in your voice,
I took a second to remember, you made a critical choice,
My mind could not shake, the tugging in my heart,
Your voice again, and again, now the feelings start.

Should I cleanse my heart forever, should I give it one last chance?
Only time will reveal, If my heart will take a stance.

I cannot take the emotional turbulence, of your love without end,
It may be better to be your advisor, your supporter, your friend.
The ending won’t be easy, the pain to much to bear.
But my heart cannot contain, the silent screams of one more tear.
Brad



BLOG TALK

The gift of love was my best present this past holiday season. God has truly blessed my life. That is not to say that I have not met many challenges, and have many to face coming into the New Year. I have been enlightened however, with the wisdom and experiences that only comes from adversity and the creator. Some people feel as though their problems will be solved, “once they get their money right”. Some feel as though their problems will end if they find, ‘Mr. or Mrs. Right!’ I believe the answer comes in the way we show our love!

I believe that many of us don’t take that time to remember that we help ourselves, when we take the time to remember the needs of others. We live in a society were we want everything here and now. We believe in taking care of number one, in today’s society. I believe in a God that gives us more than enough. He will not leave his children without the things we need, and of our good desires. However, he is not a wasteful God.

The creator blesses us with abundance, so that we can be a blessing to each other. We should be good stewards of the blessings that we receive. By, giving back, whether its time, money or wisdom, this reveals the purpose of our prosperity. The creator is wonderful, and never ceases to amaze me. I wonder all the time, why? I ponder the reasons for the many difficulties and challenges I face. He gives me the answer. He says seek me, search for me I am that treasure you seek. He has been a wealth of wisdom, knowledge and joy.

We seem to be living in a time where you will hear many people talk about Change. They are looking for Hope! Many are hoping that our future is heading towards that better tomorrow. The question is ‘how will we get there’? Will it be every man and women for themselves, or will we go hand in hand.

There has been a lot of discussion about this topic, in many aspects of how we live as a society. Should there be a universal health plan that takes care of all of us? Or should we only worry about whether our family is covered. Is an education a right! Or a privilege for those who can afford it.

These questions and many more like it will have to be answered by the choices we make in the upcoming presidential election. How will we proceed? Will every decision be tempered with the faith and love that comes from the example of the loving creator, that most Americans believe in; or will our decisions have dollars sense, as its bottom line?




A PEACEFUL PLACE TO BE

I cannot judge unless I walk a mile in their shoes!

I may have to be the one to make the peace, and swallow my pride!

The universe is not exacting it gives everything the space it needs!

My time is short but my acts of love will last forever!

Love never fails!