Rethink........

I woke up this morning, thankful for another day, a new love and a new look on life. The devil has been busy in Cali but I continue to have faith in GOD and humanity.

Not too long ago, I thought that life was nothing more than a living hell. A place where people were meant to struggle and be without hope of a better life until we cross over. The love of and for my three children provided strength to hold on and hang in there... Im sooo glad I did and i'm eternally grateful to the few that reached out to me from nowhere and helped me get to this place. Im even more grateful to "The One" who restored my faith in GOD and love. Just when you think you've been left to figure things out on your own, someone comes to take that walk with you.

I encourage every person to rethink their position on life, friendship, love and how they worship their GOD, EVEN IF YOUR LIFE IS GOOD. I ran from GOD for the majority of my life thinking that I could not "be me" and do his will. Everything is GODs will. What a fool I was. He has brought me to my knees and humbled me. My intent is to never be bitter, angry or vindictive. I am human. I will be disappointed. I will never be angered AGAIN. Now I know thats a hard commitment to make, but it can be done.

My reciprocation for GOD and this community which has helped keep me here will be to see my goal reached of sending 100 well deserving students to college. I've just started to branch out to other schools, Morning Side High, and move this agenda forward. It will be done. Some one other than their family has to give a shit about them. The bureaucracy handicaps these great minds wanting to be just a hairdresser, dancer, model, actress, singer, ball player. We come from "The" greatest minds on earth. I, like my father before me and children to follow, are leaders and thinkers. I refuse to let the political agendas of some be a hindrance on these babies. Sorry to put it in those terms but I need to be clear that I am sincere and common, just like you.

Be well family. Enjoy what you have earned and been given. - Joe

Lead me on........

I find myself having to focus on taking care of me, yet believe there is an increasing demand for my help or advise. It is natural for me to want to help but I think its time to "do me". As guilty as that makes me feel, I do understand it and have been made to see it by a great friend for which I am eternally grateful.

As a parent, president and political figure in the community, I find it hard to evade "being involved". It is who I am. It is, what I was born to do. My road was not without many bumps, ugly turns and uphill battles. I feel that there is a need for inspiration, dedication and consultation in the community not only for the sake of ours but those to come. I'm a down the road guy. Ive been blindsided a few times but have been able to rebound because I anticipate the unexpected.

I look to change the mindset of many by empowering them with the ability to see immediate results in their work/input. The gratification is intoxicating. As I get back into  expressing my thoughts, I hope to shine light that we are not alone. Ive been inspired by a couple of lovely women, one whom i've yet to meet. This is going to be a great tool for me and even more so for those to follow. I'm certain my content will increase as time moves forward..- Joe