AJC.com > Living > Blog > Archives > 2008 > July > 14 > Entry
She’s on a mission!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We keep on waiting (waiting).
Waiting on the world to change
One day our generation
Is gonna rule this population
Good news, John Mayer! The wait is OVER. I happen to know that our generation is already making moves to rule this population. I say this because I just spent a week in Mexico volunteering with a great organization, Constructores Para Cristo.
You want to know who was leading the groups, and assisting with coordinating this wonderful short-term mission trip? Our generation! There were young and many single people deeply involved and showing that we do care about changing the world. CPC’s founder, Dianne Davis has positioned a new generation of leaders to continue her mission’s work Shout out to Ashlee and John (He is from Dunwoody!)
This is the driving force behind CPC, Dianne Davis, receiving the Mother Teresa award. She is such an amazing woman! Fortunately, she granted me an opportunity to interview her. Pic Source
Our group included wonderful people from all walks of life, varying ages, professions and from many states. We came to make a difference in the community of Piedras Negras, Mexico through building homes and providing medical care. I was on the medical team with my mother who is a pediatric nurse practitioner. We had outstanding doctors on our medical staff: Dr. John Buttler, Medical Director and pediatrician, Dr. Sarah Hays, opthamologist/surgeon, and Dr. Jan Mathison, a pediatric neurologist. We all worked in this medical clinic:
I was assigned to work in the pharmacy, and I assisted in shoe distribution to children who needed them. I can not believe how amazing it felt to give away shoes that I didn’t even buy!
Sweet and happy recipients of a brand new pair of shoes!
One of the (many?) perks of being single is having the freedom to go globetrotting around the world without dragging an unwilling participant along the way. Have you ever dated someone who was a missionary? What about someone with serious wanderlust? Did you pack a bag and join them on their adventures? Where did you go? How was it traveling and exploring the world together?
It would help a lot if the person you are dating shared these interests. When I mentioned my trip to a former guy of interest, he basically scoffed at the idea. Clearly, we had different outlooks about the world!
How do you handle dating someone who has vastly different ideals about world traveling, volunteering, etc.? Do you think that means you are not a good match? Is it possible that you will clash on bigger things too?
If you could have one all expense-paid date to anyplace in the world, where would you go? What would you do? Who would you take!
By the way, I really missed you guys! I appreciate the warm welcome that you gave Blanca. She had a great first week! Happy Monday!
Permalink | Comments (280) | Post your comment | Categories: About Wise Diva
Comments
By Raqi
July 14, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
WiseD I am glad you a had rewarding journey. As the saying goes it is better to give than to receive.
I think having a mutual outlook on the type of trip you took is very important.
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
Welcome Back…thats a very Positive Action to take! I’m trying to get more involved again with community service.
I almost got myself killed over the weekend and this is a sign or a reality check that I need to change the drinking / partying into something more positive and stay focused. I’ve given up drinking all together.
I took my friend out from Tampa Bay to Buckhead Friday night and out with friends…one of my friend’s bought gave me this redbull vodka and he had one too. We’re playing pool…having a good time, whatever. We drink this one drink and both of us don’t remember anything. He got his wallet and cell phone taken and woke up on the street at 6am in some apt complex curb & I don’t even remember getting back to my friend’s place. Somehow I did, no memory.
Be careful especially the females, these spiked drinks are out there. It freaks me out just thinking about it because I wasn’t even drunk yet I don’t remember anything. Be Safe. There’s my life lesson and I’m grateful to actually be here today…for real.
By SlimOne
July 14, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
Slow start I see….Morning all.
By Dan
July 14, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
Well good morning all,
The D went to the Chris Rock concert on Saturday and the dude is just plain silly…a good time was had by all.
@ATL Guy
Sorry that happened to you, but that’s why we keep our drinks within eyesight (if not in hand) all night. The other part is to learn to drink before going out. Saves money, saves time, and when you get the hang of it, will save you from events such as the one you described.
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
Dan … yeah I pre-game it usually when I have a driver etc. Thing is I wasn’t drinking to get hammered so its not like I was spending a lot of money. I’m a guy so I don’t think about these drinks being drugged or anything. I’m 26 and I’m starting to think alcohol is becoming too much of my nightlife…I don’t like how I feel, don’t like how I become, taking too many chances, tired of the regrets. I workout quite a bit so I just want to cut the drink out and just focus on career and being healthy. I’m killing myself at this pace. I am really happy with my decision
By Duluth
July 14, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
Why does the kid in the picture on the left have a freaking binky in his mouth????? A little too old for that don’t cha think?
By abc
July 14, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this
As one who used to travel for a living, I can tell you that while absence may make the heart grow fonder, too much of it will be the end of the relationship. ‘Course, that’s different from a week here or 2 weeks there to attend seminars, volunteer projects, missions, etc. There’s no reason for that to be a problem for anyone, but I know it would be for a lot of people. They may have trust issues, or be incapable of taking care of themselves, or whatever. Such things are surmountable, but a PITA.
By Dan
July 14, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
@ATL
I’m not criticizing mind you, bruh. Just a helpful hint from a former partier.
As with anything excess is the key, drinking (or anything) in moderation is a good thing. To become excessive about an activity is where we all get into trouble.
BTW, you and your friend still have your kidney’s right? lol
By Kym aka Lady Sage
July 14, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Good Morning All,
Have you ever dated someone who was a missionary? Nope. Not sure that would gel well with some of my political ideas..I am big on volunteering but I am not so big on missionary missions.
How do you handle dating someone who has vastly different ideals about world traveling, volunteering, etc.?
Since I am the volunteer and most of the guys I have dated were not too keen on giving up a Saturday morning to “Be the change they want to see in the world.” It basically becomes something that I do and I never forced him to do it. If he has respect for me then he will respect my ideas and beliefs and so long as said beliefs and ideas do not overtake my relationship..(spending more hours mentoring than I do being a mother or love) then I would hope there would be little to no problems (It is all about BALANCE)
Do you think that means you are not a good match? Nope. Is it possible that you will clash on bigger things too?
Nope..you can clash on bigger things and still have the same interest and ideas.
If you could have one all expense-paid date to anyplace in the world, where would you go?
I have tons of places I would love to explore in our vast world. But I really would love to take a tour of the USA and Canada. There are tons of places and sites I am dying to see.(I am blaming the book *”1000 places to see before you die)*
*So I would love to take a 2 month vacation and hit as many places as possible. *
Who would you take?
Frankly this is a trip I would love to share with my SO and my son. So it would be like a family road trip so to speak.
By The Truth
July 14, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Fantasy vacation: Bre’s scheduled trip. To cool to hit the road for a few weeks and see the world.
Atl Guy rumor is those spiked red bulls will have you waking up with a sore azz. Watch your self. LOL
It’s going to be a nice day folks.
By AmazonRed
July 14, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this
It’s Monday! Another blissful weekend in ATL. I hope all of you had a great weekend. :-)
Welcome back WiseDiva. Thanks for sharing your experience in Mexico! I figured you just went down there to party!
This is a unique topic too, so thanks. Having a partner that enjoys travel is a must for me. I haven’t done any missionary trips, but was just thinking this weekend that I should look into joining the peace corps. It was a fleeting thought. LOL
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
Dan I’m with ya. I have a compulsive personality (why I stay away from Vegas). I’ve always gotten the hook ups at every nightclub in Midtown with VIP or whatever. I just need to tone it down. When I do things, its always to the extreme. Thats my Problem. My kidney is not being sold on the market just yet.
Chris Rock is Awesome, he is funny as hell!
Truth Haha Crazy
Did any of you see the Miss Universe last night!? OMG those girls are bangin! Miss USA slipped and took a fall…so funny!
By Dan
July 14, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
As far as dating someone that committed to cause, to me it’d be no different than any other job.
I enjoy women with passion and conviction, so discussing her passion could spark my own.
That said, I’d require herpalghonerealmononucleoisitis testing the minute she touched down. It’d be a real bad way to die catching some foreign infection and I ain’t bit mo left the state…
By DasV
July 14, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
I’d require herpalghonerealmononucleoisitis testing the minute she touched down. It’d be a real bad way to die catching some foreign infection and I ain’t bit mo left the state… ROTFLOL@ tht Dan…. had to come outta lurkesville to tell ya! too funny
By For Real
July 14, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
The morning after……
Dude: ATL where are we?
ATL: I don’t know bro! I think we are in a park.
Dude: Are you leaning up against a tree too?
ATL: Yeah and my wrist and ankles are duct tapped together.
Dude: Me too, are your pants pulled down too?
ATL: Now crying Yessss!
To be continued……
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Hello everybody. I’ve missed each and every one of you!
Atl Guy, sorry, but you gave me my first laugh. Glad you guys made it to see another day. How many times have I told you to stay alert (LOL).
As Truth stated, I’d like to have Bre’s vacation schedule. Since I can’t, even with the unrest, I would like to visit Zimbabwe. Waterfalls excite me and Victoria Falls is simply breathtaking!
I think it’s important for your traveling companion to be on the same page as you. To take a reluctant person along with you only spells DOOM!
How do you handle dating someone who has vastly different ideals about world traveling, volunteering, etc.? My ex would complain because I was always volunteering helping different organizations, especially Hands on Atlanta. I quickly found out that it if you’re involved w/something that takes quite a bit of your time AWAY from home, you better have an understanding mate. If the two of you aren’t evenly yoked in this area, the ensuing arguments can be brutal.
Side note, just got back from Junior Olympics in Rock Hill, SC. Lil Leggs has advanced to the National Championship in Nebraska. WOO HOO, WOO HOO!
By DasV
July 14, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Dan stay with forReals story…. surely he wont have you ‘poked’ at the end of it…. right, forReal??!
congrats, sexyLeggs to you and baby gurl.
anyone watch the Amazing Race??… that show highlights the need to be on the same page when it comes to traveling and tasking. and it is a great way to determine if you’re with the one…. cause no matter the destination, traveling is stressful…. and under stress you meet the real person under all the ‘fluff’.
By Staceye AKA Black Mamba
July 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Morning guys!!!
Wise It does feel good to give. As a pageant queen, during my reign we took toys to children’s wards of hospitals and gave them out. Then I performed fro the kids. I enjoyed every minute of it. I even went back after my reign was over because it made me feel great.
I love to travel, and I do it with my girls. I tend to enjoy a trip where there is no expectations from me except to make sure I have the funds to have fun! We are planning our trip to either Costa Rica or Brazil.Being single allows us to pick up and go. Being childless alots us to have more money to get up and go. It’s a great life. Now I am every adventurous..so if I go onw trip with a guy he has to be just as or more adventurous than I. My dream trips are to Egypt, Fiji and Greece.
ATL Guy WTH man? A dude spiked you and your boy’s drink? Well this is Atlanta! No strange feelings in your body unknown right? Were all your belongings accounted for? Yeah I do not let a guy get me a drink. He can buy it…but believe me…it comes straight from the bartender’s hands to mine. No GHB in me buddy!
Duluth I said the same thing. Any kid over the age of 1 should not have a binky!
ATL Guy I have a compulsive personality too but to only certain things. I am glad to know you stay away from Vegas.
Yes I did the Miss Universe pageant. That was always my biggest fear, falling while on stage. Sometimes they get their evening gowns at the last minute and do no practice walking in them along with the heels. A dress with a train is the hardest because when you turn it may not turn with you and can get caught on your heel. I never had that happen on stage…but I took plenty of headers while practicing! I felt bad for ole girl though.
By QC
July 14, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
Morning..zzzzzzz
By Wise Diva
July 14, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
good morning :)
@Duluth, yeah, I thought the same thing, he was 3 yrs old, still on a bottle, too. Yikes! I tried not to judge the mom too much on that, though. It seemed that she was doing the best she can do, you know?
By Foots
July 14, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
Congratulations to Lil Leggs!!!
If you could have one all expense-paid date to anyplace in the world, where would you go? What would you do? Who would you take!
I’m happy to have someone who has traveled in the military and on his own and has an appreciation for the world’s beauty. Personally, I would love to go to Australia, Greece, Egypt, Bali and South Africa, if all expenses were paid. I actually want to do one of them next year, probably Egypt. Gate 1 Travel ALWAYS has great deals all over the world. Can’t wait to use them. Bali is where I’d like to go for a honeymoon though. It’s extremely beautiful and reasonably priced.
It does take an understanding mate if you are a person who likes to volunteer. Hopefully, we would be able to volunteer together at some point.
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
*Morning all. *
Ms. WiseDiva welcome back.
And here I thought the Mexico rendezvous was strictly for birthday R&R. It’s neat to read you are working the field of missions out in Mexico. Congratulations!
…For many are called and few are chosen!…
By Atl Lady
July 14, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
If I can ever get away from my job and responsibilities long enough, I plan on taking a couple of months and going to a few places I’ve always wanted to visit. I really want to go to South Africa as well as some European places. My only reservation is the current perceived hostility towards Americans in certain countries. I’ve met people that traveled a lot, but they seemed to only work long enough to make money to take these trips. Great photo albums, but no real stability.
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
Side note, just got back from Junior Olympics in Rock Hill, SC. Lil Leggs has advanced to the National Championship in Nebraska. WOO HOO, WOO HOO!
Awesome news Sexyleggs! Mom you should be proud.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
I had to go back and look at the pic. I didn’t know what a binky was. I’m not an advocate of pacifiers. Never had to use one.
Thanks DasV/Foots. She is so pumped. Coaches, parents and the kids were crying. Out of the 11 that made to Junior Olympics, 7 made it to Nationals. Told her we have to do some fundraising this weekend, and she said she didn’t feel like. I said “well, I didn’t feel like sitting in that hot damn sun for the past 4 days, but I did it because I love you. You love to run so you’ll love collecting money to keep you running. I don’t know folk like Ms. Oprah!” Sheesh!
I love the show Amazing Race and The Mole. Both shows showcase a person’s character. Bottom line, if your SO constantly grumble about your desire to help others or your desire to travel, then you’re not right for each other.
By The Melo
July 14, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Hie SexyLeggs my 10 year old daughter was at the Vic Falls this past wekeend and is travelling back to Johanesburg,SA this friday.She was at the crocodile farm,animal park and went on a boat ride on the Great Zambaezi river.Saw lions,cheetahs,elephnts etc and was so giddy when i spoke with her over the 4ne. She cant wait to share the stories with her school friends when she gets back to school and says her journal is jam packed!!
By For Real
July 14, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
For Real now challenging lil leggs to a 40 yard race. The winner gets 40 strokes from Sex Leggs.
By Wise Diva
July 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
We went to Victoria Falls when I was in South Africa in 2007, it was breathtakingly beautiful! I still need to organize my photos from that trip, i am such a slacker
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Cemeeli, I’m very proud. She has worked very hard. Thank you! As any parent knows when you see the fruits of your hard work begin to materialize, you can only clap your hands and jump up and down screaming YAY (LOL)!
By Staceye AKA Black Mamba
July 14, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
CONGRATS TO LIL’ LEGGS! KEEP OUTRUNNING LIL BOYS…NEVER LET THEM CATCH YOU!! lol
How could I forget the other places I am dying to go to…Dubai & Turkey. I would love to bellydance where the art of the dance originates.
Melo You are from that area right? Was this your daughter’s first trip to Africa? Who did she go with?
I wish I was in the Amazon with Frank Ski and the kids right now! I would love to see that place! I went to the Puerto Rican rainforest. That was beautiful. Humid as heck! Thank God for ponytails.
**
By Dan
July 14, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
While not a big fan of traveling..it does a brother heart good to hear of sisters doing it for themselves….
South Africa, Puerto Rico, Europe, all that…and on their own pocketbooks…I love it…
Whenever I hear “I love to travel” from a woman…I see my savings accounts declining as we travel.
But y’all keep it up…and as soon as the State Dept. sees fit to approve my passport application, I’m at it with you…
Dan now thinking of being mistaken for Shaq in Hawaii and Japan….ahhh……
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
Wait Staceye you said you didn’t Miss Universe Pagent before!? You have to be Playin…
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
Melo, have her share her journal with ME too! I know she was very excited to experience the wonders of Africa.
WiseDiva, I want one of your pics. If I should get the opportunity to see the falls, I have no doubt it will take my breath away.
ForReal, what would you give if you lose????
Staceye, I’m adopting that as my motto (ROFL)!
Thank you Staceye. However, I don’t want to be anywhere Frank Ski is. Guess I could go on the trip and simply avoid him.
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
It is the fruit of the labor girl. Good example.
Leggs i am just estatic with and for you.
Kym i read you doing your thang (volunteer) too. cool
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Ut oh, Atl Guy is now hooked! Get ready Staceye (LOL)!!!
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
welcome back, Diva….
Congrats, Lil Leggs
By Atl Lady
July 14, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
Dan LOL @ your 10:52 post.
By For Real
July 14, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this
SexyLeggs lil leggs gets 40 strokes from you with a belt.
By Kym aka Lady Sage
July 14, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
Cee/Sexyleggs Yeah I am a active volunteer with Hands on Atlanta and I try to take my son too..when I can and the project permits.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
Thank you 2C.
Cemeeli, nothing like teamwork even from the opposing teams. That race was hard fought by all participants. When her team’s name was announced I looked around and some woman who was crying hugged me and I hugged her back crying. Beautiful moment!
Ok, here’s my question to those of you who have been to exotic and beautiful places and there are waterfalls. You know those falls where it looks like a cavelike opening and you can stand inside and watch the water fall, how many have made love there? I know it’s open but how many have tried?
By The Truth
July 14, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Leggs congrats on Little Leggs. I love to see folks win, no matter what it is. I would like to help her fund raising efforts and commit to $25.00. This will be followed by other bloggers who also want to donate. (The Truth now mean muggin the regulars to get some type of commitment) Drop me an email with an addie.
Dan gotta second that on the ladies getting out on their own. They do it Big Willie style. LOL
I went to the Black Ski Fest a few years ago and spent 7 days in Breckenridge Colorado. After 4 days I was sick of it and came home on the 5th day. I love travelling but to stay in one spot for 2 long gets on my nerves. I need to keep moving. LOL
Wise btw, since it’s a fantasy vacation I’d have a Gulfstream G550 on call for personal service. No public airports. LOL
2C/Foots I bought another watermelon friday and it was delicious. Thanks for the tips. I’m getting another one today. I love cold watermelon. Any of you ladies want some? LMAO
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Leggs
Ecstatic…i am ecstatic…
with myself. Lol
By AmazonRed
July 14, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
I went to the Black Ski Fest a few years ago and spent 7 days in Breckenridge Colorado. After 4 days I was sick of it and came home on the 5th day.
Truth - Do you actually ski or snowboard? I do both. I was thinking of going next year since Delta is having a sale on tickets to Aspen right now…
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
TheTruth what is a Black Ski Trip!? So if I came with you on that trip…would it be an issue??
Never heard of something like that so I’m curious
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
“This will be followed by other bloggers who also want to donate. (The Truth now mean muggin the regulars to get some type of commitment)”
“Trick loves the kids”…..hit me up at “Iam2cptg@yahoo.com”.
By Atl Lady
July 14, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
Truth now checking eveyone’s pockets and busting piggy banks and raiding change in the ashtrays of people’s cars! LOL :-)
By Kym aka Lady Sage
July 14, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
Truth Don’t feed it or it will grow.
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
I am a active volunteer with Hands on Atlanta and I try to take my son too..when I can and the project permits.
I see we are eventually going to meet. Kym
Leggs the connection of a good moment like that doesn’t happen often. smiling Uh, NO to your question and wow.
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
AJC, y’all playin wit me…..that ain’t what I wrote!
lemme try this again, Iam2cptg@yahoo.com
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Amazon I worked out of our Denver Office for 2 weeks in March and went up to Key Stone, Colorado on the weekend to snowboard. It was incredible. Key Stone is right by Breckenridge…awesome slopes
Aspen is too Expensive, not really worth it. Hope this helps!
By Dan
July 14, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
@Leggs
Like the song says…
I got 5 on it!!!!
Anymore would give me the shakes…
By Foots
July 14, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
(sigh) Here we go….
Truth I was thinking about going this year. I have to find a way to make that happen. Though I may have to wait until Winter 2010 if I’m still living, so I can go off of the proceeds from the sale of my other house. I’ve heard it was amazing, one of my friends has been going for a few years.
By For Real
July 14, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Kym I do alot well I did alot with Hands on Atlanta to. I went to high school with one of their Project Managers.
SexLeggs Way to put that out there Truth. SexyLeggs hit me at For_Real730@yahoo.com
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
yeah, y’all got jokes…..thanks for the confirmation, though…..
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Leggs i have your addy. I am going to hit you up.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
ForReal, oh, sorry, my mind went elsewhere!
Truth thank you. What a wonderful thing to do. I send you my info. Wow, lil leggs has blog sponsorship. The black ski club Truth* speaks about is the Southern Snow Seekers. wwww.southernsnowseekers.org.
Cemeeli, you’re right. They don’t come often. We looked each other in the eyes and started laughing crying!
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
no for real… What is a black ski trip?? Like I’ve never heard of a white ski trip before because it would be kind of discrimitory I would think. Sounds wild to do a trip based on Race alone. Is this common?!
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
A big **{{{{MUAH}}}} to all of you for even entertaining the thought!
By The Melo
July 14, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Wise Diva where did u stay when u went to the Vic Falls….the elephant hills hotel overlooking the river is stunning!! Mamba daughter went with my 7 year nephew and the dad to South Africa.The grandma took over in SouthAfrica on the next vacation trips to Falls etc.Iam from that part? yes and no..i dated and sexxed from South africa,Zimbabwe,Zambia,Swazi, and stopped in east africa in Kenya so like u,im a little bit of a united nations of southern and eastern africa as far as dating goes….my dykk has a rainbow tip,resembling those cntries natl flags..the women showed me all the nice spots…….. Sexxy cant wait to see whats in those photos either,wl defntly share….
By Kym aka Lady Sage
July 14, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
For Real never to late to start back. With the economy the way it is they are always in need of volunteers and if you don’t like to volunteer alone. There is Teamworks..where you can join a group of other willing volunteers and go to various projects together
By Staceye AKA Black Mamba
July 14, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Dan what makes you think that because she says she loves to travel that she will ask you to pay for it? LOL
ATL Oops I meant to say I saw the Miss Universe Pageant. LOL I have competed and won on a national/Caribbean level. I would say the strangest pageant that I won was in St. Kitts. Though I have retired from pageantry since 2004..I have a few things still coming to me…not sure if I will compete though.
Sexyleggs not with him..but they do go on some great trips. LOL
Truth I already pledged $25 to Lil’ Leggs track fund. It’s on it’s way.
ATL Guy No…come along on the trip! Granted you’d stick out! But what’s wrong with that? I hate blending in…being the sore thumb rocks! But I think it’s called a Black Ski trip becasue Black folks don’t usually do a lot of winter sports. So in efforts to get more diversity they do these trips. Now I have gone and still saw more Black folks chillin’ at the lodge and partying. So… I tried to ski…I suck at it. But I have been ice skating since age 4.
By Dan
July 14, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
@ATL
A black ski weekend (bike, beach, reunions of any kind) is an opportunity to socialize and network with people of like minds and similar goals.
To base it on race is an opportunity to share experiences in a closed environment of professional trials and information.
When Black people segregate ourselves it’s more cultural than racial. And again, think power, we can’t discriminate…..yet
By Str8
July 14, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Just heard about your trip… Had to come read up on it… I commend you on not only talking but going out to do the work. I am sure this will inspire more people to do the same and thereby CHANGE THE WORLD.
Am proud of you Diva (always have been).
By SexyCool
July 14, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
atlguy…please understand that a LOT of organizations and activities that carry the title of being for Blacks or African Americans came about during a time when we, as a people, were excluded from mainstream America…
in today’s society…as racism is definitely alive and thriving…you still see these types of organizations and activities being formed and taking place…
the discrimination in this instance came from the fact that because the discrimination existed…we have to find our own way to live fulfilling lives…because if we WAIT to be INcluded…we will always find ourselves on the OUTside…
By Staceye AKA Black Mamba
July 14, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Melo I swear..you are a hot mess! LOL You never cease to amaze me!
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
I use to go on college sponsored school trips that always fell around my b-day. I too suck at skiing, but I absolutely love tobogganing!
By Dan
July 14, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
@ATL
I meant to say “segregate ourselves for certain functions”
@Staceye
Like other gender specific duties, I would think that us traveling would mostly involve me paying. NBF, but even independent ladies like to “be ladies” when the check comes ‘round.
To that matter, I’ve only had one lady offer to take me on a trip (on her tab), but hey, maybe it’s the D…my ego can leave room for that possibility
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Staceye how you doin!? When am I taking you out!? Haha!
Dan people can discriminate with any situation. I could say “lets have an all whitey snowboard trip” … but why would I ever be part of something like that!? I embrace different backgrounds, interesting people, & all cultures. Its easy to gravitate to your own I know…but being open to all would be good times too!
By SexyCool
July 14, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
dan…>>>>>here<<<<<
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
BTW, WiseDiva, I admire you for what you’re doing. I truly believe more people should volunteer their time. It’s such an emotional/mental rewarding experience knowing you helping someone just because it makes you feel good. I volunteer in one place I’d rather not but have a good reason to do it —-> P.A.W.S Atlanta. Lil Leggs loves animals and we started volunteering there about 3 years ago. For those of you thinking about volunteering but haven’t done so, start now. Call an organization and offer your time. It will truly inspire you!
By Atl Lady
July 14, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
Truth Shoot me an email with lil leggs info. Now, going into lurksville (got meetings for the rest of the day).
By KP (http:chatkafe.blogspot.com)
July 14, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Wise Diva, Good stuff on your missions trip! Volunteer work allows you to give back to others and also serves as a reality check as to how good our lives really are. Keep up the good work and remember there are several local opportunities to get involved in Atlanta. You’d be surprised as to the number of people living on the streets right here in our very own backyard. Our ministry group goes out every 1st and 3rd Saturday to feed the homeless of Atlanta and found groups of people living in the woods off Veterans Memorial (aka Bankhead).
On topic…a person who volunteers and serves others shows they possess compassion, which has a level of appeal/sexiness. I desire for my wife to have a heart to serve and give back to those who are less fortunate.
By AmazonRed
July 14, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
There are plenty of different races at Black Ski Weekends. Many of them spouses. What a silly assumption to think you wouldn’t be welcome.
There are several professional conventions for things like accounting, engineering etc. Guess what, you don’t have to be in that certain profession to attend those either.
Good grief.
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
Why seperate?
Same reason there are Indian, Asian, Latino, UK, middleeastern, muslium culture centered events and organizations. The ethnographic fellowship with “the” your own culture for a spell. Not to discriminate.
just/sayin’
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
SexyLeggs I’m looking at this from a European point of view…I don’t understand how still there is this divide in this country by the races. To me…I see your point with the groups of staying together etc….but isn’t that keeping that group away from working together with the mainsteam?? To me, its like you’re almost preventing the cooperation across the races by on purpose seperating yourself. I understand racism is in this country still … but progression should be open on both sides. I would be ashamed if there was a White Entertainment Television (WET) or group networking for White Young Professionals. I just think it excludes and divides.
Again…raised European by principle so thats my view.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
You know KP, I agree w/your post about compassion but I think having the ability to empathize is a more superior emotional trait. JMO! No matter because I don’t think one can exist w/out the other.
By Alvin
July 14, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
ATL Guy think about it dude…most winter sports are mostly white any how…so having a all white ski trip is pointless…99.999% of y’all will be there any how, LOL.
Dude, you wouldn’t understand…lets leave this topic along.
By Dan
July 14, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
@Sexycool
Would you be offering to take your boy on a weekend spurt to the Bahamas? is that what that post meant?????
@ATL
There is a discipline called sociology that defines human relationships. What you and I are debating are ingroup and outgroup activities….
The ingroup could be based on any number of characteristics and in this case we are choosing race as the defining paradigm…
Now Caucasians have plenty of entities for your social gathering, whether en masse or in smaller ingroup actiivities (think: Country and Western bars) and while an ingroup activity is defined by the parameters that encompass the group as a whole, there is no discriminatory aspect of the makeup of the group..anyone can participate.
But then like Staceye said, you’d stick out like a black man in an Abercrombie and Fitch ad…..
By Foots
July 14, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
ATLGuy No one here owes you an explanation for anything. If you want to find out more information about why anything is the way it is racially since it seems to be such a big deal to you, please do your own research.
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
“Dude, you wouldn’t understand…lets leave this topic along”
I think we’ve been saying that for ‘bout 2 weeks now…..
By Dan
July 14, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
@ATL
Think about it, your 12:21 illustrate my points precisely, what exactly is mainstream, esp. in a country as diverse as this one?
Words have power in their usage.
By Foots
July 14, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
KP Hey there!! Glad to see you drop in. How are things with you and your lady? Does she attend your volunteering functions with you?
By KP (http://chatkafe.blogspot.com)
July 14, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Sexy, I totally agree with you. I guess the bottom line for me is that volunteer service demonstrates a person’s ability to think about others versus themself :).
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Why are people telling me to just leave it alone or not address it cause I “won’t get it”!? I’m not stirring anything up, just trying to get some perspective here. Relax everyone.
Believe its important to ask questions to learn about eachother’s cultures. Am I off base here?
By The Melo
July 14, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
Mamba,those were the wild days,during my single days….of all the tribes i mixed and mingled with,the ndebele wmen in Zimbabwe and South africa and the Kikuyu ladies in Kenya were the most loveable and pleasnt.For the ndebele wmen,sexx to them is like having a handshake,no big deal….the xhosa wmen,thats mandela’s tribe,hell hath no fury like a woman scorned(is that king lear or hamlet?),dnt cross those coz they burn u alive,if u play them……. My only regrets is not having cracked a white wman(im waiting on diane sawyer to propose) and a hindu or muslim woman.A muslim woman is proly the most challenging and i wld take a gamble,even in my marriage to crack one and see what lies underneath those veils..must be some real nice under that thing, thats why the men are so protective……
By anonymousella
July 14, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
all expenses paid? i’d do a mostly overland trip around the world and write / video blog about it. (overland travel = traveling without flying; although i’m not sure if i’d be up for a transoceanic cruise).
that’s my dream, actually, and i’m working on making that happen.
compatible travel styles are definitely important IMO. my ex and i took a trip to spain and got on each other’s nerves…. although, in my defense, getting lost and having to walk a mile in a foreign country because somebody don’t want to listen to you is reason enough to get salty. getting a fever and diarrhea and having somebody not even make sure you’re okay will do it too. and then to have that same somebody go and get you antacid instead of pepto bismol is enough to make you slap him (though i didn’t).
By Dan
July 14, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
@Alvin
I don’t think he should “leave the topic alon[e]”
Thing is, I’ve got friends on a wide racial spectrum and we engage in frank and furtitive discussions all the time about racial and cultural differences.
Like the one homeboy that likes to skydive, my question to him was “why?” His answer was satisfactory and I get a better understanding of his mindstate.
It’s all about education bruh… They don’t know what they don’t know
And @ATL
I for one would like to congratulate you on seeming willing to have a frank discussion about race and trying to get cultural enlightenment, but like the joke the other day…there are limits…..lol j/k bnr
By Tazzee
July 14, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Morning Folks!
Wise - awesome update. I want to go on a missions trip before I go back to school.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
Atl Guy, you posted to the wrong person. Yet, let me say this to this comment: I’m looking at this from a European point of view…I don’t understand how still there is this divide in this country by the races. The divide is still there because caucasian folk are still making it hard for all of us to intergrate. Next you say: To me, its like you’re almost preventing the cooperation across the races by on purpose seperating yourself. WOW, caucasian people have been doing this years. Your question should be addressed to them first then you can and will understand the end result. Next you say I understand racism is in this country still … but progression should be open on both sides. Yes, it should and we have been saying this to your folk for eons only to fall on deaf ears. I would be ashamed if there was a White Entertainment Television (WET) or group networking for White Young Professionals. I just think it excludes and divides. It may not blatantly be called WET, but it is what it is and that’s why some have gone out and get events, organizations, programming suited just for us because we got tired of knocking our heads against a brick wall. JMO!
By Alvin
July 14, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
2 Can that dude is a lost cause…or is he just slow
I am now looking up the word “slow”.
Light Blub
AtlGuys
And dude, I am not refer’n to your intelligent
By KP (http://chatkafe.blogspot.com)
July 14, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
Foots, I’m on MIA pretty much everyday, but pick and choose when to jump into the discussion :). My lady currently has a separate volunteer endeavor she’s involved with. She plans on transitioning over to my ministry’s project in the near future because it’s larger and serves more individuals. I welcome the participation of others from this blog also.
By Foots
July 14, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
ATLGuy Believe its important to ask questions to learn about eachother’s cultures. Am I off base here?
Then ask a question about interracial dating. Why rely on this dating blog to be the “Everything you ever wanted to know about Black culture” handy guide. Folks are beginning to get a little weary of this.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
…Am I off base here? Only in terms in not understanding why we have created entities geared exclusively toward our culture. Your culture has been doing it for centuries and no one questioned them because of their “inferred” right of entitlement. Some of us are simply doing the same thing that your forefathers have been doing all along. However, I thank you for noticing the chasm between the races.
By Kym aka Lady Sage
July 14, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
AtlGuy Dude of course you are trying to stir something up..that is why I told Truth not to feed it or it will grow. You are not trying to understand anyone’s culture. Tell you what though if you really are trying to understand there are several workshops and events being held for the rest of the month during the National Black Arts Festival attend and then ask all the questions you want.
By Staceye AKA Black Mamba
July 14, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Dan Just as a date…if guy asks me out..he should pay. Just as I would do if I asked him out. Now if he invites me on a trip…same goes here and vice versa.
ATL Guy I promise not to GHB you and you will still have your kidneys in tact! LOL
all whitey snowboard trip LMAO…now I actually wet to something like this. It was not called that..but my girl went to college where it was mostly White and we attend the skip trip with her. Let’s just say we were the chocolate chips in the vanilla ice cream! So besides the people on the trip..the residents of Burlington, Vermont, the people at Stratton Mountain and the snow itself, we stuck out like hell! LOL But after I won the Karaoke contest..my girls and I were the celebs of the trip. We even walked into a party and had one guy pull a Coming to America moment and said Sexual Chocolate! He said that was his favorite movie! LOL
White Entertainment Television (WET) that does exist…it’s called ABC, NBC, CBS, etc. You hardly see any blacks on these stations! LOL But yeah a name like WET can be taken a whole other direction dude! I think the channel would be somewhere between PLayboy and Spice channel.
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
“that dude is a lost cause…”
Alvn, he just wants someone to talk to, that’s all…..his conversation migrates to the same topic everyday….
By ATL Guy
July 14, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
Dan you are right…mainstream is multi-national in this country…thats why I love diversity and this country.
To everyone else saying that I’m this “lost cause” or that I’m “slow” for actually making an effort to understand. Then whatever. Its dissapointing people are just like “thats the way it is” & prefer to not even have a discussion (non heated) and be open about what plagues this country.
People need to make effort on all sides to bridge this gap instead of holding this tension divide.
By SexyLeggs
July 14, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
Excellent suggestion Kym aka Lady Sage!
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Beloved…where and why are thou so inquisitive of the African American culture? Are you promoting the development and the awareness of our culture/secrets? I don’t think anyone here is up to divulging what all we do.
By Foots
July 14, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Kym Regarding your 12:43 and the NBAF, now THAT is a heck of a plan to gain cultural understanding. That and of course, the Black in America documentary. July is just full of cultural enrichment!
By GaMan
July 14, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Leggs hit me up with the addie as well…put me down for 25.00 we have to support the kids…
GaMan is always down to help*
Back to Blogsville, USA
Manswellp@yahoo.com
By AmazonRed
July 14, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
Why are people telling me to just leave it alone or not address it cause I “won’t get it”!? I’m not stirring anything up, just trying to get some perspective here. Relax everyone.
Because this is not the “educate the clueless on race relations” blog. You change topics from the jump on here now about things that are common sense to most everyone on here.
“Black In America” comes on CNN on July 23. If you truly want to gain more “knowledge” on race relations in this country, watch that or something.
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2008/black.in.america/
Goodness.
By SexyCool
July 14, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
as one who does not blog or even lurk everyday…i didn’t know that ATLGUY had regular questions about the african american culture…as you all are now pointing out, i find it a novelty that he has so many questions about black culture…
i encourage him to ask any question that would not be considered offensive…how in dah#ll else will he be exposed to other cultures? how many people of other ethnic backgrounds are you going to let all up in your personal space in the name of learning about your culture?
By Dan
July 14, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
@ATL
Don’t hit me up with a list of questions regarding race, but if you want to have that discussion, I’m all for it:
Danbynight@netzero.com
But for the sake of the blog, let’s not hijack the conversation with racial complexities.
Lets just stick the more conventional men vs women debate….
In that vein of thinking, Dan now annouces that “B^&&^ ain’t ish…”
By Tazzee
July 14, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this
SexyLeggs send me an email at Tazzee@gmail.com with the fundraising information.
ATL Guy There will always be a divide because people are different. From my POV, I live and work around white people and they don’t like what I like nor are they trying to. Most of them simply turn the channel when a show comes on that doesn’t represent them - for years we couldn’t do that. So when I mention a show like Living Single - a show that I totally identified with - they don’t even know it existed, let alone what the show was about. Even if I never watched some of the shows with all white casts I know the basic premise of it because while watching the nightly news, I see a preview for it.
We needed to create BET because your ‘mainstream’ television stations did not have shows that showed us. We had the Jeffersons for a while. Then there was about a decade before the Cosby Show and A Different World - but other than that - no ‘mainstream’ shows. You can’t count those on Fox because once Fox got a loyal following, the black shows were cut and replaced.
I remember when I started working in Corporate America - if I didn’t watch Melrose Place, I didn’t have anything to contribute to the lunch convo. Hell, I’d rather watch Fresh Prince or something like that…so to ‘fit in’ I would watch that crap. If I tried to bring up something that I liked no one could relate. After a while I stopped going to lunch with my team - lunch is supposed to be a break from work, I was tired of working to fit in.
Which brings me to the ‘Black’ vacations - when I go on vacation, I want to vacation with folks that have similar interests. So as Dan stated, it’s more about culture than color.
You don’t have to put ‘White’ in front of certain things because it’s a given.
Hope this helps you understand why we ‘segregate’ during our leisure time.
By abc
July 14, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
I speculate that frequency of African American appearance on television exceeds national demographic percentages. While Metro Atlanta is 63% white and 29% black (City of Atlanta is 61% black and 33% white) the national averages are more like 75% Caucasian and 12% African American. It might seem like T.V. shows represent fewer black people than exist in our country when compared with Atlanta and similar demographics, but Atlanta is not the world.
I could be mistaken, I don’t watch a lot of T.V. Come to think of it, I’ve never seen a black person on Antiques Road Show or the DIY channel, but I don’t even watch stuff like that very often. I wonder how many black people are on America’s Funniest Home Videos? Not too many, I would guess.
Yall didn’t seriously watch Miss Universe, did you? There had to be something better to watch than that! Or, maybe not.
By 2 Can Play That Game©
July 14, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
Cee…since you have a good memory….’member that day I mentioned what Judge Arrington did in his court room, and asked for white folks’ opinion…member I got reprimanded for that too? but we got dude in here stirring racial tensions, and ain’t shyt said to him…..
I’m just taking notes on the inconsistencies……..
By AmazonRed
July 14, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
i encourage him to ask any question that would not be considered offensive…how in dah#ll else will he be exposed to other cultures?
SexyCool, supposedly ATL Guy has “black friends” who are comfortable enough to share racial jokes about black people with him.
So since he and these black friends are so “cool” maybe he should ask them.
By Jamoca
July 14, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Good Afternoon, everybody….
@ Foots:
Your 12:26 pinned “the tail on the jackazz” well “spoken”, as I totally agree….
However….Demi, you’re absolutely right, he would not understand, if he’s strictly relying on his “European perception”… per the last line of his 12:21 (“..Again…raised European by principle so thats MY view…”)…smh….keep that up and you’ll always be looking “from the outside in…”
Looks like it’s getting pretty sticky in here once again (sigh)…SA, seems you’re “just messy”…and have a knack for being all over the place, seriously…can’t really say that I’m surprised that “Black History 101” (wrong blog, btw) has been the subtopic upon your arrival, since “this” has been you since DAY # 1, on this forum.
On Topic:
Alpha House of Tampa has been my favorite charity org since I came upon their work back in 2001…very well organized and proactive….so much to whereas it seems they’ve always had some sort of waiting list…
@ SexyLeggs and Kym
Loved (both) your 12:36 and 12:43’s!…Kym, super idea!!!…hopefully that will put this to rest…(if only for a moment, dang!)
@ Cee:
Hey girlie!……” I don’t think anyone here is up to divulging what all we do….” There ya’ go, right there!
By SexyCool
July 14, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
ARed…i had no idea…interesting…
By Tazzee
July 14, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
ATL Guy and another thing - these things don’t exclude other races, you are more than welcome to attend. You just have to realize that the music, activities, etc will be geared toward black people. I have yet to attend one that did not have folks of different races - y’all were just in the minority.
By M'Karyl
July 14, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
@Wise Diva What such a fantabulous, positive social interaction!!!! Kudos!!! I am a product of the 60’s Social Movement era…and I do believe that it is very important for us to make more constructive change in the world we live in…and I also think that it is important to have someone who shares those views with me…I did not put too much emphasis on this in my younger years, but the more I mature and assess what common lifestyle values need to be mutually significant within a relationship, then the committment to social change, activism, etc. is very important to me…in the end, after I have sorted out all of the things that matter to me the most, the ability to make a better world with the resources I have been blessed to receive is a major concern to me…“The flame of love is about to die…somebody fan the fire…I believe, I believe…Earth, Wind & Fire!
By Cemeeli
July 14, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Judge Arrington did in his court room, and asked for white folks’ opinion ‘member I got reprimanded for that too? yes.
sigh
we got dude in here stirring racial tensions, and ain’t shyt said to him….. unfortunatley, yes.
2C I hear/read you loud and clear. I’m not “overtouched” by dude, i’m simply tryin’ this diff approach.
To believe something good about someone, rather than something bad, when you have the possibility of doing either. After hearing his clarification <—-(this has not yet happened). I’m prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt. I’m just curious how Beloved went from one extreme, = At first making “jokes” to/about us, to maybe inqusitive discourse and questions about “our” culture.
wondering
By The Truth
July 14, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
Ared Do you actually ski or snowboard?Let’s put it his way. If you put me at the top of a hill I’d make it down but wouldn’t get ANY style points. LOL It would be ugly. Picture those human snowballs in the cartoons and that would be close. I love snowmobiling though. LOL
Atl listen, you being a caucasio