Making the Dream : Will Racism Ever Die?

A belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others. – dictionary.com

Hatred or intolerance of another race or other races. – dictionary.com

Racist beliefs provide the foundation for extending special rights, privileges, and opportunities to the race that is believed to be superior, and to withholding rights, privileges, and opportunities from the races believed to be inferior. – Encyclopedia of Psychology

In this post of Making the Dream I will not extract my personal feelings on this topic and will right exactly how I feel. One thing to not confuse is that I do not intend to be a hypocrite. I do believe that racism is across the board. Even the “inferior” races believe to be superior to those that claim it. As a Christian young woman, I will base my thoughts and beliefs off of Christianity and how I believe that God created us all equal. Please feel free to post any comments/responses that you deem necessary. If your comment/response is negative in any manner (and I do not mean if you disagree with me), it will be deleted. Enjoy.

1865. But that was only an end to slavery, right? Wrong. It should have been an end to the abuse of the superiority complex of white Americans. Let’s take it back way earlier than that. Who are the true inhabitants of our “home” land? Certainly not ANY Caucasian, or any other race that gloats as superior, or even inferior. Native Americans. Hence the name. I understand the politics and beliefs and all that jazz, but even with all of that I continuously fail to understand how those who roamed this country before any of us are pushed to different corners and areas of this country.

Why am I talking about racism? Oh, I don’t know. Maybe it’s because I’m tired of the blatant, and outright disrespect that myself and other peers receive while attending an institution of higher education. Or maybe it’s because of the opportunity that so many of us would like, but aren’t even glanced at because we “aren’t representative of what we stand for.” So do you stand for racism? Because if so, don’t make it hidden. MAKE IT KNOWN. At least then I will understand why I’m being disrespected and what you TRULY stand for. I have yet to experience racism in the workplace, but have experienced enough of it while obtaining my education in LESS THAN ONE YEAR. Certain groups on campus have been very hypocritical in their mission statements and mottos. Do not PREACH diversity, if you are simply there to serve one group of people. Do not PREACH Christianity if you are not following the life of Jesus. HE’S THE REASON CHRISTIANITY EXISTS. Galatians 3:28 “ There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Genesis 1:27 “So God created human beings in his own image, in the image of God he created them;male and female he created them.” I do not recall him saying this group is superior over this one, and this one will be inferior for eternity. [If you have found that somewhere, please let me know and I will gladly correct myself.]

This may sound like a rant, which in a sense it is (But it’s also my blog so I can do as I please). However, this is a matter that I face everyday and am not able to “vent” about whenever I choose. This is obviously a decision made myself, since we do have “freedom of speech” (to a certain extent) but it’s true that in order for my days to be 1% positive and productive, I need to push aside the ignorance and disrespect that I interact with on a daily basis in my community. But isn’t it my fault? Nobody said going to a predominantly white institution was going to be easy…

MG*

Twitter Thursdays : Bring On the Inspiration

I’m sure everyone and their mother has a twitter by now. Some use it to stalk celebrities, some use it to network, some use it for branding. Whatever your reason for using it, at least one should be to gain some inspiration. If you’re staring at twitter all day, at leas get something fruitful out of it!

So I’m going to list my top 5 most inspirational twitter-ers. Follow Them!

5. The Socialite aka @imkeepingup (www.imkeepingup.com) : Her blog is always on point and she’s always delivering great topics and encouraging inspiration. She gives us a look into the African-American world around us and also a glimpse into her own life while making the dream happen! She’s on the road to success!

4. Rev Run of Run DMC via @RevRunWisdom : I know we’ve all seen Rev Run in his bathtub on Run’s House sending out his daily mass blackberry inspiration. Well guess what? Now he’s broadcasting all over Twitter! Follow him and receive his daily insight into having a joyful life.

3. Lauren London via @MsLaurenLondon : She doesn’t update as often as the others, but when she does she delivers positive words of encouragement. Be uplifted!

2. Ralph Marston via @ralphmarston : He is my most re-tweeted. He sends messages that are not only encouraging, but challenging as well. I URGE you all to follow this man, and challenge yourself. This is how he became successful by the way!

1. God’s Word via @dailybible : This needs no explanation or any kind of “bio”. God speaks, and we should all listen. FOLLOW!

I hope I’ve opened some of your eyes to some new inspiration.

Enjoy!

MG*

Making the Dream : Mistakes Happen!

Ahh! School tried to consume me so early! But these are the makings of a successful young woman; sometimes MISTAKES HAPPEN. I will do my best to never miss a day again.

So…I’ve decided that I will treat this as a job. Meaning, I’m working two jobs right now. And that’s ok. This is a platform to my success, and I know that God will provide the strength and energy, especially through things that glorify Him. :)

Enjoy Thursday’s posts and give me some feedback.

MG*

How-To… Put Your Life In Order

On the road to success, the path can become a little cluttered. Maybe even too cluttered. How can you see where you are on the path or how far you’ve gone with all that mess? Simple, you can’t! But there is a solution for this. Organization! I don’t think you have to be an obsessive list maker, but I do think that there are some key things that you can do in your life that will help for you to see straight ahead of you and around you. I’ve listed a few tips here that can get you started, and will hopefully help you to remove those cluttering roadblocks. :)

1. Acquire a planner. 
Whether it's Microsoft Outlook on your laptop, or a funky little planner      from Wal-mart, you need something where you 
can log appointments, meetings, events, etc. Make it a habit to log things into your planner as soon as something comes up. 
DO NOT rely on your perfect memory and write it down "later". Make sure that you check your planner when new things come 
up so that you don't over-book. 
My opinion: I think it's nice to have a task/calendar on your computer, but I don't think that an electronic planner should be your only source. I'd recommend having a paper planner as a back-up, and fill that in as you go.

2. budget, Budget, BUDGET! 
It doesn't matter if you have an infinite amount of money. I still believe that you should keep track of 
your spending and income. For most of us though, budgeting is something that we need to invest more time in. Find or download a daily or monthly budget sheet. Make sure that you are keeping receipts and bank statements so you can have accurate record of spending. This site has some great tips for budgeting.

3. Reflection is good for growing... 
It's always a good idea to set aside some time for yourself where you can simply reflect on the day or the week. 
This doesn't have to be done everyday depending on your personality, but if you're easily stressed I'd recommend 
doing this daily. Write in a journal, blog, listen to music, or just simply be alone with your thoughts. Whatever 
helps you release. Our lives can become very hectic and it's a great idea to just gather your thoughts to prepare you for the next day or week. It's all too easy to get on overload and then we are burned out. Now that's not making the dream happen!

Some websites that offer other great tips :

1. 12 Ways Budgeting Can Improve Your Life
2. 10 Commandments for the Student Consumer (Charade)
3. Making Time For Yourself

Daily Quote : EVERYONE takes a tumble…

“When there are stumbling blocks, you need to learn from them. Don't close your eyes from frustration, but open them to your future. You want to be remembered not for your fall, but how you stood tall.” – Ms. Glam

When times are hard, it’s easy to give in to the misery and failure. Almost too easy actually. There will be rough patches in life, you will make a mistake, and you will fail at something. Want to know why? Because nobody on this Earth is PERFECT. Nobody is. The only perfect being that I’ve heard of watches over us, and I don’t think your name is Jesus[1 Peter 1:19 NIV]…

When we are at a stumbling block in our lives, don’t be afraid to take a tumble. Show the world, and mainly yourself, that you can deal with anything that comes your way. Trials and struggles are put in our lives not only test our strength and faith, but to grow. Every situation in life serves a purpose. It is something to learn from so that if this stumbling block, or another, arises in the future you will high jump over it instead of just tripping on it.

So keep your heads up, and keep pushing forward. If you give up at the first sign of hardship, how will you make the dream happen?

MG*

Making the Dream : First Day Jitters

By jitters, I was making a play on Jittery Joe’s coffee. Because my first day I was only awake because of the amount of caffeine I consumed ( I know, not healthy!).

How was my first day? Great! I know I’ve mentioned this a lot, but I’m super excited for this school year because I believe that this year I will learn a lot, be challenged a lot, and also have a ton of fun. So now you understand why I’m excited! I’m so happy to be back in my “home”town and getting back into the swing of things with organizations (so excited about Alpha Omega campus ministry this year) and my social life.

I have so many goals for myself, but one thing I need to pay attention to is that I don’t over-do it, or sell myself too short. I’ve done a lot of planning and praying for this year over the summer, and so far so good. Granted, it’s only been one day but let’s be positive!

My classes this semester are challenging, but who doesn’t love a challenge? This is my chance to truly push myself, and I’m going to push as hard as I can. I’ve made a little list of some of my goals for this year that I will share with everyone:

Goals for Sophomore Year:

1. Keep GOD first. :)
2. Complete Core Curriculum
3. Apply & be accepted into Terry College
4. Obtain a Marketing internship for summer 2010
5. Volunteer 150 hours
6. Get a bigger following for my blog
7. Become more involved.
8. Start/work on a marketing project (non-profit)
9. Obtain Dean's list status. :)
10.Learn how to budget and save.

MG*

Fashion : From Work place to Groove Place …

School. Work. School. School. Work. Social life. Work. School.

I think I’ve made a point? Many times we get caught up in our busy lives, and usually when one area in our life is blossoming, another one is plummeting. Also, in the everyday routine of life, sometimes we can get a little … LAZY. And not so much with work, or school, or whatever your focus is, but mostly with our daily upkeep. When you’re on the rise to success, and even after you’ve reached some level of success, I have news for you : YOU HAVE TO KEEP CLIMBING! And one way to make sure you stay on top of your game is your appearance. In this world, appearance is key. You should be able to incorporate your style into a professional look, as well as your casual look. I’ve put together some pieces that can be worn during the day, but can easily be transformed into nightlife wear for dinner with friends,bible study, or a party. Give me feedback! Would you wear this ensemble? Do you think it can double as work by day/fun by night? Enjoy!

 

1. Crinkled Ruffle Top – Forever 21
$19.80

2. Slender hip slung khakis - GAP
Regular Price $49.50

3. Chain Crystal Earrings  - bebe
$29.00

4. Promotte - Steve Madden
$59.97

5. Charm Ribbon Bangle Set - bebe
$39.00

6. Light Brown Cotton Sateen Cropped Blazer - BCBG
order from Bluefly: $171.00

 

MG*

“Fashion, put it all on me…”

New to the line-up will be a daily post of an affordable, fashionable outfit. Some outfits will be “get the look for less” and some will just be from my creativity :) Today’s outfit features pieces from Forever 1, Top Shop, and Nine West. Enjoy!

1. Cowl Back Metallic Leopard Top – Forever 21
$22.80

2. Liquid Matte Leggings
$14.80

3. Fiestaa – Steve Madden

Price: $99.95

4.Three Quarter Sleeve Blazer

$190.00

5.Misha Assorted Bangle Set
$6.80

6.Pearl Multirow Necklace

$25.00

In the Spotlight : Obama’s Healthcare Plan

Something that has been in everyone’s spotlight has been Obama’s Health Care Reform plan. I know everyone’s heard about the Town Hall meetings across the country that have had some rather, heated, arguments. But do we all really have room to argue? Have we been informed of this health care plan and know what it proposes?

In situations where we’re passionate about something or someone, it is easy to acquire a blind following. But in this world, that can’t be done. In order to help build up our platform, we must know what we stand for and what the argument is. We have to see both sides if we want to be able to counter the opposition.

Obama’s Healthcare Reform

• Reduce long-term growth of health care costs for businesses and government
• Protect families from bankruptcy or debt because of health care costs
• Guarantee choice of doctors and health plans
• Invest in prevention and wellness
• Improve patient safety and quality of care
• Assure affordable, quality health coverage for all Americans
• Maintain coverage when you change or lose your job
• End barriers to coverage for people with pre-existing medical conditions

(via www.healthreform.gov )

Healthcare Reform Opposition

This side has a platform called the “The Pillars of Health Care Reform.”

• Choice: A patient must have the right to choose their own doctor, and must protect a consumer's right to choose the health insurance that best fits their needs and budget.
• Competition: Leveling the playing field for doctors, insurers, and consumers will result in healthy competition that drives down costs and increases favorable outcomes. Providers should publicly post their prices so consumers can shop and compare. States should eliminate burdensome regulations so insurance companies can compete equally across state lines.
• Accountability: Making health care services more accessible, transparent and open through standardized insurance claims forms and equal tax breaks for individuals and companies will control costs by helping consumers and businesses compare "apples to apples" across the health care spectrum.
• Personal Responsibility: Placing responsibility squarely where it belongs, on the shoulders of the patient, will encourage individuals make to make healthy lifestyle choices. Infusing personal responsibility into health care reform allows us all to maintain our cherished freedom to live our lives without government intrusion.

(via www.cprights.org )

I want to hear your opinion. Are you for the reform, or are you against it? What are some of your pros and cons? The future of this plan will be involved in all our lives as we make the dream, so voice your opinion. It should be heard!

The Epitome of GLAM … NEW LINE-UP!

Alright, REVAMP is in session! Now that school has started, my schedule is pretty much finalized, so daily posts are in order! Get excited! I want feedback as well, as to what you like and/or don’t like throughout the week. It helps! There is always improvement to be made. Here we gooooo :)

Monday - In The Spotlight : this post will cover a news story that is making headlines. It’s always great to stay informed.

Tuesday - How-To… Make the Dream : this post will include helpful tips and new discoveries that can help us all make the dream happen. :)

Wednesday - The Epitome of … : this post will mostly center around individuals who are making a difference and making the dream happen. They could be bloggers, celebrities, etc. Inspiration!

Thursday - Twitter Thursdays : spotlight on some great findings on twitter. If you’re looking for some like-minded followers, just some more inspiration, or maybe even a friend. Well, this is your post!

Friday - Funky, Fresh, GLAM : a recap of the week in fashion, politics, and other news. Another way to keep you informed!

Daily –

1. “Fashion, put it all on me” : Beauty IS in the eye of the beholder. The Bible says so [ see 1 Peter 3:3] . However, your closet is in the eye of your boss, future boss, and your peers. Your appearance is important so that it represents you and the dream that you’re working towards.

2. Daily Quote : Plain and simple. I will post a quote that’s purpose is to inspire and uplift.

Bi-Weekly – Making the Dream : these posts will be updating on my progress in making the dream. I want everyone to be involved!

Well… I’m excited. Are you?? In the words of P.Diddy : “Let’s GO!”

MG*

The Epitome of … Organization! Daily Line-up

“The road to success is not without blemish or mistake …” – Ms.GLAM

So a REVAMP is in place! For the past two weeks I have been working on a new blog plan/outline. I will post the weekly line-up, which will be effective this coming Sunday.

School is starting and my grind is getting stronger by the day. Nothing but God can slow me down. :)

MG*

In the Spotlight : Kim Kardashian

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This Armenian socialite is leaving her mark on Hollywood! Daughter of O.J. Simpson’s attorney, Robert Kardashian, Kim has taken us all by storm.

Recently, she’s got a new blonde look. Dyeing hair is something that’s very brave, especially when you’re going so much lighter. I think that the color looks nice on her, but I’m more a fan of the darker hair. But hey, congrats to Kim to doing HER. That’s always the most important thing when decisions about your appearance are involved. ;)

Pictures belowww…

MG*

Daily Quote : Best I Ever Had …

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“You deserve the best that life has to offer. And the way to attain it is by giving the best that you have to offer.”

-Ralph Marston via Twitter [@ralphmarston]

This pretty much explains itself. You can’t walk around and expect for the world to be great for you, just because you believe that you’re the greatest. It helps to be confident, yes, but humbling yourself and WORKING to attain your goals makes you greater than you would’ve ever thought. We have to work hard each day in order for us to obtain success and satisfaction in life. So don’t just be the best for yourself, be the best all over!

:)

MG*

Daily Quote : Play the Cards …

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“Its not the cards dealt to us, it's how we choose to play our hand...”

- The Socialite via Twitter

I thought this quote was rather clever. Something along the lines of you determine your own steps in life. Granted, life has its own way of dealing its own deck. But when you get a bad hand do you just throw the cards in the air? Or do you just keep pulling.

We CAN be great. It’s up to up to keep the positive outlook and make that decision for ourselves.

:)

MG*

Making the Dream : Training is Draining …

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It’s draining, but it’s worth it! Thursday I started training for my first housing job. Although I knew my university’s housing department had some policies, I was completely unaware of all the serious measures and university policies that also coincide with housing.

Sorry, I’m going on and on about this job. But today I realized how thankful I should be and AM for having this opportunity. I think that this job will allow me to build some necessary relationships and also gain some experience.

Did I mention that I am so excited for this upcoming year? Oh, all the possibilities that will become opportunities that will turn into ACTION! :)

My next making the dream post will be a little more in depth about my plans for this upcoming year; everything from academics to organizations to relationships.

Time to go to bed because training is early!

:)MG

Daily Quote : The Greatest Commandment …

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1 John 4:7-9

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. ⁸Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. ⁹This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son^[a] into the world that we might live through him.”

So what does love have to do with it?

Well, I think it has A LOT to do with life, in general. Have you ever noticed how much energy it takes to be rude, to make a smart comment, or to intentionally do wrong to someone else? Wouldn’t you rather use that wasted energy and put it towards your dream?

I think so.

Many of us forget that the Greatest Commandment of all is to love. And we’re not talking about the “Barry White” love, or even Barack and Michelle love, but genuine LOVE.

It never hurts to just be LOVING. The time and energy it takes for you to negatively focus on someone, is nothing but wasted energy. Let’s be smart, and through the negativity and hate, let’s LOVE.

:)

*MG