Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Give Them Their Flowers...




Cynthia Wilson chatting with Black Film Icon and Actress Ruby Dee at the National Newspaper Publisher's Association (NNPA) Awards Reception honoring Ms. Dee during
the Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Weekend-Fri. Sept. 25,2009

I was happy to be there and even happier that the National Newspaper Publisher's Association(NNPA) was honoring her with an award that night, giving her flowers while she could still enjoy them. It was a particularly special time for me. You see the last time I had the opportunity to talk with Ruby Dee was in 1983 in Detroit, Michigan at the after party for a play entitled the Ninth Hour written, produced and directed by playwright Barry Pugh.

 That very same night at the same party we also celebrated our birthdays together. Yes. Ms. Dee was gracious enough to share her birthday with me. And, I can't tell you what that did for me as a young African American woman, serving as Special Project Assistant for the first African American woman to be elected to the Detroit City Council, Erma Henderson. I was turning 29 and Ms. Dee...well, I will let her tell you that as I don't recall(smile). Her kindness that night has remained on my heart all these years. So, it felt fantastic to catch up with her briefly about that and to also let her know that she should have been the one walking home with the Oscar that night in 2008 for her portrayal of Denzel Washington's mother in the 2007 movie American Gangster. She was so gracious and humble looking at me as though she was so pleased and also a little surprised that I would think so much of her performance. She was as humble then as she was that night during the after show reception for the Ninth Hour's cast. And, as I reflected on the event of some twenty-six years ago, it became even clearer to me why the NNPA award tonight had her name on it.

 The playwright who she and her husband, Ossie Davis traveled to Detroit, taking time out of their busy schedules to portray characters in his play, was relatively new, up and coming. He was ecstatic about their involvement and I was thrilled as well, since he was a friend and client. Yet, Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis saw something special in his writing and his artistic interpretation of Christ's crucifixion and his last hours on earth. It was also a project sponsored by the church where Barry was a member. "In presenting Dee a Black Press Champion award, Danny Bakewell, chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, the Black Press of America, said she was chosen to be honored ''not because she's an actress and a writer and a producer that we honor her. It's because she's an incredible human being. She is one who stands as a model for all of us as a mother, as a wife and as somebody, who in spite of all of her achievements, never left her community.''(more...) No truer words were ever spoken. I can attest to that from life experience. God bless you Ruby Dee and NNPA for honoring you. Thank you for taking the time to chat with me and share your favorite scripture.

 Again, you deserved that Oscar... But, God had something bigger and better for you. Peace and blessings, Cynthia

Monday, September 14, 2009

...But to Do Justice, Love Kindness and Walk Humble: "Go Where the Need Is"







Pictured above: (1) Cynthia Wilson and Democratic Majority Whip, Congressman James E. Clyburn at Florida Ave. Baptist Church reception following sermon ;(2)Dr. Trent, First Lady of Florida Ave. Baptist, Congressman James E. Clyburn and Senior Pastor Trent, Dr. Earl Trent ; (3) Cynthia Wilson with friend and church member Iris Toyer at Florida Ave. Baptist Church reception for Congressman James E. Clyburn; (4) Cynthia Wilson and Dr. Earl Trent, Senior Pastor Florida Ave. Baptist Church; and (5) Cynthia Wilson looks on as Congressman James E. Clyburn greets and talks to reception guests and church members
Photos 1,2,3 and 5-Courtesy of Lonell Johnson-Founder-Director
Technology Playground

Photo-4-
Courtesy of
Gary A. Smith, Senior Partner,
Ivy Planning Group, LLC
__________________________________________________

Today I had the opportunity to attend a special Sunday Worship service at Florida Avenue Baptist Church where the Reverend Dr. Earl D. Trent, Jr., is Senior Pastor. This morning's guest speaker was House Majority Whip for the 111th Congress, Congressman James E. Clyburn Democrat of South Carolina.

The Congressman exuded his usual statesmanship, authority and confidence, as he delivered an incisive and powerful word. He began by making a few clever remarks. He joked and easily broke the ice, warming the congregation prior to the sermon. He continued to lay a subtle foundation for the sermon and reception that would follow. When it was all said and done, the message in my opinion was clear. There are people in need of Health Care. Don't pass them up.
Start writing letters and making phone calls to your elected officials/representatives. Tell your friends to do the same. Pass the word and get the message out. Let your elected representatives and those in the media know that you support the President's Health Care Plan.

Clyburn's stern leadership qualities I have until this morning admired from a distance on the television screen or imprinted in a story on a newspaper page. I first observed his deft handling of the media during several of those politically charged incidents which transformed last year's Presidential race into one of the most grueling and challenging democratic primaries in the history of our nation. One that tested the soul of the Democratic Party and the mettle of Obama supporters. Somehow Clyburn always managed to inspire confidence and communicate in a manner that assured we were in good hands. No matter how edgy the situation got, our elected officials-- at least in the House of Representatives-- were on the job, aware of the issues and taking care of business. He was proceeding in the same manner today and I felt blessed to be in closer proximity, witnessing the commanding, yet humble presence live and in person from a church pew.

The table was set for his sermon, with a favorite Old Testament scripture Micah 6:6-8, which sets forth what God requires of man. Here is excerpted passage 6:8:

He has told you, O man, what is good;
And what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness,
And to walk humbly with your God?

He also chose Luke 10:30-37, the Parable of the Good Samaritan, his favorite scripture from the New Testament.

The gist of his message: Leaders have to get off of their high horses and go to where the need is. Meet people on their levels. Go into their communities and show them how to apply the word by both precept and example. Giving the word is not enough. You have to follow up by demonstrating it. This provided a segue into the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the gage for determining a good neighbor. A neighbor (1) does not have to be a member of the same church; (2) does not have to be of the same ethnicity: and (3) gets off of their "high horse" and goes to where the need is, demonstrating compassion to those needing help, as the Good Samaritan did. He emphasized that the Good Samaritan and the man in need of help were from different ethnic groups who were warring against one another.

Following the service there was an informal gathering which provided an opportunity to meet Clyburn and to listen to a brief talk about what each of us could do to assist in the Health Care Reform effort. He left the congregants with one last scripture, Hebrews 11:1. " Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen." He urged everyone not to give up, assuring us all that our elected officials would get things back on track. He told us to write in to the radio, television, newspapers and other broadcast mediums and voice our views, showing our support for the President's proposed Health Care plan.
________________

My Views:

(Revised 9.29.09)

I believe that quality health care is a basic human right and as such should be provided on a scale similar to that of public education. If you can afford to go to private school great. If you can't, but you still need quality education, public school is available. Now, substitute "health care" for public education. To make a solid quality public health program available to those in need, should not be up for further debate nor should the issue be vulnerable to continuous manipulation and distortion. Making health care available to all whether by public option or through other similar means is the direction in which the country should be headed.

Because in the final analysis, it is not really about partisanship, being Republican or Democrat. It is really not, or at least, it should not be about race, nationality or national origin. I know the issues are complicated. Some don't want a public option. There is also concern that the Republican movement against it will result in a watered down version of Health Care Reform caused by the big financial interests that stand to lose most. However, Congressman Clyburn in his sermon facilitated my understanding of it to more than a political question. In my opinion, he broke it down to a question of ethics and/or morals. If you follow the scripture parable of the Good Neighbor, its about helping those in need. To some this may seem like an oversimplification. But think about it. Are you going to just pass your neighbor by? The charge has been given in the word delivered.

So friends, I say don't be confused by the misinformation which seems to be flooding the internet and other media nor be intimidated by the number of venomous protests, demonstrations, outbursts and/or Town Hall meetings. Now is the time to ban together and engage in a unified effort to establish a program that many in need will benefit from. It may even save some lives. Giving Health Care Reform the attention it deserves is part of the hard work of which we were forewarned before and after the election. President Obama is not resting on his election victory. Nor can we. He is out there working hard to make affordable coverage a reality for all. So is the House Majority Whip. Now is the time to make your voice heard...once again. Get busy doing justice and loving kindness...

Thanks to my good friend of over 30 years, Iris Toyer. She is a long time member of Florida Avenue Baptist Church. Thanks also to Pastor Trent for keeping the church relevant and engaged.

Acknowledgments to Deacon Lonell Johnson and Gary A. Smith for taking and sharing with me their photos.

Thank God for blessing with friends in high places who are busy raising the bar.


Peace,

Cynthia

Listening to: Yes We Can:Voices of a Grassroots Movement


Reading:

The Healing of America: A Global Quest for Better,Cheaper and Fairer Health Care by T.R. Reid

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

A Creative Prayer of Trust



Photo Source

Today's reflection about trust is based on the following scripture and you may find the fuller version of it in video format on the "Chaplain of Pop" You Tube Channel:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight" Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV version)

Trust is important in building lasting relationships.The bottom line is that it is important for us to be honest and trustworthy in our dealings with one another as much as possible.

I have learned through the trials, the storms and the tests of life, and they are sure to come, to place my complete and total trust in God. That is, I rely on God working through the person or situation for my higher good. Let God place on someone's hearts what their actions and behaviors should be towards you. As the coin says "In God We Trust". It is in God we should always place our trust. With God you can't go wrong. You may not always like the outcome. But it will always be for your highest good. Human beings may fail you,but not the creator of the universe,the maker of man, woman, child,heaven and earth, the alpha and the omega.

Here's the prayer:

"God, I am trusting in you to somehow work this situation out and resolve it for the highest good of everyone concerned. I rely on you to place on each person's heart the behavior or actions to take that would be pleasing to you in this matter. Maybe the one thing I wanted was not what the other person wanted or what you would have for either of us. Please shine your light of clarity and help all concerned to see your will and your way. I surrender everything and turn it over to you god. I trust in you."

Peace and blessings,

Cynthia Wilson

The Chaplain of Pop

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Friday, June 26, 2009

The "King of Pop" has Passed,but the Thriller Remains...


Photo Source


It is still taking a while for the shock of Michael Jackson's transition from this life as we know it, this realm of existence to "eternity", to take hold. It has been a surrealistic experience for sure, almost as though I am in delayed response mode.

The intensity of the rest of the world's response to his death has finally reached me. And, while the scuttlebut and news of child molestation and random weirdness cast a long shadow over his reputation, one thing is for sure, his musical talents and contributions were tremendous. This is true whether you admired him for his musical genius and humanitarian accomplishments or abhorred him more for the terrible things of which he was accused, relentlessly judged, yet, ultimately found innocent by a jury of his peers.

I have at this very moment become overwhelmingly touched by the sheer magnitude of the impact his music has had on my life from puberty to middle age. A kaleidoscope of memories are swirling through my heart and mind. From "Stop the Love You Save May be Your Own", "She's Out of My Life" to "Billie Jean", these tunes only scratch the surface of his musical talents. While I did not know Michael personally, I feel that I have been extremely blessed to have had the opportunity to come into contact with him by working on the phenomenally successful "Victory Tour" in 1984, twenty-five (25) years ago, as Consultant to the Community Affairs (See Tour credits). In fact, I wish I could post some of the photos I took during then that have since been lost. They'd probably be worth a small fortune now. Not that I'd cash in. However, I take comfort in the cherished memories that remain in my mind's eye.

My experience as Community Affairs consultant gave me an opportunity to distribute concert tickets to disadvantaged kids who could not afford to attend the concerts(something close to Michael's heart,) meet members of his immediate family, including his father Joe whom I sat next to while viewing the Tour's finale show in Los Angeles in the family box, along with other members of the Jackson clan. I also met the family matriarch Katherine, who was always especially friendly and gracious, Germaine, Randy, Marlon and briefly the "King of Pop" himself, viewing the concerts and pre-show preparations from a backstage vantage point, courtesy of a VIP pass. I was very excited about his upcoming tour "This is It" and quite frankly, I was looking forward to getting involved. My hope was to work with Michael Jackson again as a community or promotional consultant, if not "tour chaplain".

I could go on about the thrill and excitement of being a part of the Victory Tour, how I managed to arrive on the scene, out of nowhere, having stepped out on sheer faith and connect with Michael's then management and legal staff. I navigated the shark infested waters, which usually surrounds big time and much sought after entertainers and eventually eked out an opportunity to work behind the scenes, mingling with friends, staff and advisers to one of the all time pop music giants. Does that surprise you? with God all things are possible. I was reminded of that often back then. It is quite an inspirational story itself. But, I will save that for another time along with the related scripture reference and its theme, "the faith of a mustard seed".

Today the focus is, as it should be on Michael Jackson, the boy, the man, the mega star and his phenomenally successful music legacy. That it was a thriller, there is and can be no doubt. And, in spite of all the the negative media over the last decade that has weighed him down, torn his spirit apart and created an insurmountable heap of criticism and aspersion, he remains the indisputable "King of Pop." to many he was a generous and dedicated humanitarian. The bottom line: he was a young black boy who grew up in a lower middle class neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, overcame tremendous odds and became the number one recording artist in the world with Thriller the best selling album of all time. As for his range of influence, the thing speaks for itself, as they say in the legal vernacular of res ipsa loquitur. Just observe how the world is reacting to the news of his passing.

The spirit of Michael Jackson lives on... through our memories, his music and our love.

Above right is a play list of some of my favorite songs which I dedicate to Michael and the lovers of his music everywhere. Also, find a video of his famous moonwalk done like no other posted on Heavier Octaves Radio.

Rest in peace Michael. My deepest condolences to the Jackson family.


I leave you with this scripture reference: John 3:16:

"...that whoever believes in him [Christ] shall not perish but have eternal life.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Draft Fodder for Inpiration Fund Series in 7 or 8 parts

Over the past two years, and rather intensively this past year and a half, that question has become somewhat of a mantra, as I have witnessed close friends lose their homes, businesses and/ or jobs, having to cut back on spending, resulting in leaner lifestyles. Some have even been wavering on the brink of poverty. These are smart, industrious people who cringe at the thought of having to ask for a government hand out or ask friends or family for a loan. They have always been able to make it by, one way or the other. But, today's economy has presented a different set of challenges. Challenges which need to be met head on with progressive and innovative solutions.

For whatever reason, a good portion of government aid for the ordinary citizen seems to have clogged up in one political bottleneck or the other. It just does not seem to be pouring out fast enough to meet people's immediate needs. And, let's not forget another layer of delay and set back, financial predators who profit and gain from schemes and plans designed to benefit only themselves at the expense of others. They don't care about others as long as they get theirs, taking under the pretext of helping--with their own Madoff-esque twist.
Unfortunately, this kind of mentality has contributed significantly to the current economic crisis. Simply put, greed just got out of hand. One prime example and glaring reminder is the foreclosure crisis. It sent this country into a financial tizzy that will take it a while to recover from. The domino effect has sent financial giants to the bankruptcy courts and thousands have been laid off or terminated from their jobs. Many of us know friends and family members who have been impacted.
So, I thought, why not a fundraiser for friends having cash flow problems or otherwise experiencing financial difficulties? It may sound crazy and be perceived as the utmost in naivete, but why not start a fund that will inspire and assist those who are unemployed and going through severe financial trials as a result of the economy? Why not promote a real sense of community outreach and service, sincere help for our neighbors without a lot of fanfare, pretense, administrative roadblocks and red tape? Why not a community fund among friends in which everyone can contribute according to their individual capacities and receive in line with their unique needs. Whether $10, $20 or $1,000, every gift is important. This concept was superbly demonstrated with the power of "grass roots" fundraising in the last Presidential election. What an inspiration. Need I say more?
My vision for the Inspirational Fund is inspired first by God and scripture (Romans 6:38), President Obama's resounding success last November in galvanizing the small contributions of common people into an extraordinary tool for progress. It is also inspired by wonderful friends who have helped me along the way, sharing their resources freely and without "stuttering". It is based on the community chest concept such as those set up in social networks and on message boards across the internet. But instead of raising the funds to keep communities or boards up and running on the internet, this money will be used to keep a friend up and running, while preventing them from "slipping through the hard times cracks". Minus the red tape, of course, the funds will help with food, housing, bills, transportation and any other miscellaneous emergency expense until the "friend in need" lands employment or otherwise gets on their feet.

The initial goal is a symbolic $10,000.00. Funds raised will be made readily available to individuals or organizations experiencing hardships with the aim of getting them through the temporary challenges they face. The plan is to expand this effort into an ongoing "helps" ministry and humanitarian aid network.
I hope that you will join me in "sharing the wealth and spreading the love". If you can't give money, maybe this Inspirational Fund will at the least cause you to look at situations of need differently. Hopefully, it will ultimately "inspire you to give" so that you will "give to inspire", setting off a chain reaction of giving, which seems one sure way to help.
Stay tuned for further details. Please visit my page at Fundable.com. and make your pledge.
Thanks in advance for your contribution!
Cynthia

"What can I do to help?"

An Inspiration Fund... Providing A Window of Hope and Sustenance for Friends in Need in 8 Parts

Alicia Keys: 'I Love New York/For The Love of Money'
Alicia Keys: 'I Love New York/For The Love of Money'


In continuing with the 8 part "An Inspiration Fund" blog in seeking pledges, I thought I'd lift up an earlier blog written almost two years ago--Global Day of Action Against Poverty . It isn't "Global Action Day Against Poverty" today but today's blog lifts up some of the same ideas and sentiments. So, when you're done reading it, have at one from the archives. A bonus is that I provided a link to a video in which Alicia Keys performs that classic O'jay's tune "For the Love of Money", which is posted at the top of this blog article as a "blast from the past". Enjoy!
____________________________________________

Part III-"For the Love of Money"


Donate

For whatever reason, a good portion of government aid for the ordinary citizen seems to have clogged up in one political bottleneck or the other. It just does not seem to be pouring out fast enough to meet people's immediate needs. And, let's not forget another layer of delay and set back, financial predators who profit and gain from schemes and plans designed to benefit only themselves at the expense of others. They don't care about others as long as they get theirs, taking under the pretext of helping--with their own Madoff-esque twist.

Unfortunately, this kind of mentality has contributed significantly to the current economic crisis. Simply put, greed just got out of hand. One prime example and glaring reminder is the foreclosure crisis. It sent this country into a financial tizzy that will take it a while to recover from. The domino effect has sent financial giants to the bankruptcy courts and thousands have been laid off or terminated from their jobs. Many of us know friends and family members who have been impacted. to be continued


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