I had to pull out my “Wakanda Forever” files to give homage to Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Korey Wise, Raymond Santana, and Yusef Salaam. These five brown and black men are known as the Exonerated 5. Their true story made history! I call them beautiful black warriors. In April of 1989 they were all young teen boys of color living their lives as normal kids. There was a woman who was gruesomely beaten and raped in Central Park. Central Park was a park in New York where young people hung out at. A group of young people of color were beating up individuals and attacking them in Central Park the night of the crime. Yusef, Raymond, Korey, Antron, and Kevin were present in the park on the night of the crime but state they had no part in any of the crimes at Central Park. They were all charged with the crime of the lady renown as the Central Park Jogger (Trisha Meili). Their lives instantly changed in the month of April, 1989.

The Exonerated 5 each spent a collective amount of years in prison, ranging from 5-15 years. King Korey Wise received the most time. He was incarcerated for 12 years. The others served about 5 to 6 years. Each one of the boys grew into young men while they were imprisoned. The Exonerated 5 men had a list of combined convictions. They were charged with rape, riot, assault, sexual abuse, attempted murder, sodomy and robbery. The Innocence Project notes how DNA evidence along with assistance from them, helped to overturn their convictions. The crucial piece of proof came from a man by the name of Matias Reyes. Korey Wise met Reyes in prison. Let's say divine intervention. Reyes told Korey Wise his truth of committing the actual crime. Matias Reyes shared his truth with the Manhattan District Attorney. In December of 2002, the Exonerated 5 were all exonerated from the crimes forced on them. 

These unbreakable spirits spent years of their lives in prison for a crime they did not do. The beautiful thing is, God’s power was triumphant in their lives. How many times have we’ve gone through these episodes of wrongful convictions? Too much with black and brown folks! The Exonerated 5 men are living miracles. The top row of the picture above shows the actors who played the Exonerated 5 in Ava DuVernay film “When They See Us” as adult men: Jharrel Jerome, Chris Chalk, Justine Cunningham, Freddy Miyares and Jovan Adepo. The second row of pictures represent the young teen boys who played the vindicated 5 men as young boys: Jharrel Jerome, Ethan Herisse, Asante Blackk, Marquis Rodriguez and Caleel Harris. The third row captures the actual pictures of the Exonerated 5 as boys when they were charged of the crime. The last and final 4th row is the Exonerated 5: Korey, Yusef, Kevin, Raymond and Antron, in that order. It was a long time coming for these men but a change came! They did not take any plea deals. None of the men confessed to the crime because they were all innocent. The entire cast did an amazing job. They are brothers for life!

An ex cathedra of charming dragonflies made their presence known at the 2019 BET awards. Kevin, Korey, Yusef, Raymond, and Antron were all present as the crowd of black excellence drowned them in love. Dragonflies represent change, transformation, and adaptability. These men are definitely dragonflies. The lives of these five men have sparked an insurrection of knowledge and power. Power to the people to know their constitutional rights and the power of unity. Power to change legislation in the criminal justice system. Young men of color are aware of their rights in light of the Exonerated 5 story. The legal system is changing; exponentially driven by the love and light of the people in nations all around the world. You can't stop it! It is time to get on board.

When there is a calling on your life, nothing can stop or block that calling. Even those who are eating and drinking wickedness knows this. It is ordained by God for you to survive. It’s only by the grace of God all the adornment and inspiration the Exonerated 5 are receiving is well deserved. I don’t know these brothers but I have nothing but love and respect for the Exonerated 5 men. They are always in my thoughts and prayers like most black men I know or connected to. This entire moment is historic. The true stories of Antron, Kevin, Yusef, Raymond, and King Korey are positively affecting the criminal justice system for black and brown lives. These five men are heroes of elegance. They are the epitome of strength. God uses ordinary people like you and me to help fight the battles of others. The Exonerated 5 are allowed to sleep peacefully at night as angels are in position for their lives. Their downfall turned out to be the greatest victory of their lives. Korey Wise wasn't even on the NYPD list to be interrogated by the police. He only went to the precinct to support his friend. He ended up spending the most time in jail. He was the blessing that freed them all. Won’t he do it? Yes he will. I am thankful for all the awareness the Exonerated 5 have permeated in our atmosphere. It is imperative for folks to know what men of color go through all the time. 

There is a woman who posted a vital YouTube comment on Angie Stone song "Brotha." She made a statement that I believe all African American mothers and women of color can agree with. Her comment relates passionately to their boys and the men in their family. Her name is Daisy Samuel. Her comment is the second comment. Please check it out.

Ava DuVernay and others like you have shown a proven track record of letting the world know African American stories do matter. This is why we have to tell
our stories. We have to always change the narrative in light of information being implicitly bias against us and downright stolen history from us. Always! No one else is going to do it but us! There should always be inclusion. One group of people can’t represent everything for everybody. People of color do have their own agendas dealing with economics, policy, advertisement, and journalism.
Our agendas have to have our DNA applied to it. How is that making America great again if this is not allowed? It is not! We unfortunately have to be able to tell and share our own passionate narratives, perspectives, and experience completely, on everything concerning colored folks, as my Lula (granny) would say. These 5 men were able to share their truth despite lies. "No lie can live forever." 

Fannie Lou Hamer's mood is all up in yo' face!

I don’t think there’s even a white person under the sun could say they would be patient as long as we been patient. –Fannie Lou Hamer

My soul is tired of seeing people suffer. I’m very tired of every time I pick up a book or every time I pick up a newspaper talking about somebody that’s been shot; somebody that’s been killed. –Fannie Lou Hamer

Because to be perfectly honest it's hard for me to stand up and sang the national anthem. I stand up and I work my mouth but I don’t always come through with the verses. Oh say can you see by the dawn's early light, what so proudly we hailed; cause actually the land of the free and the home of the brave has meant the land of the tree and the home of the grave for so many of us. –​Fannie Lou Hamer

The residue of white supremacy is a bloodstain that is stitched in the heart of American civilization and other nations. Fannie Lou Hamer was trying to change the history of black folks. Fannie Lou wanted the pursuit of happiness that was promised to all Americans. Black folks lives are affected by that stain. White folks benefit from white supremacy in light of them being of European descent.  White supremacy has nothing to do with whether white folks agree with it or disagree with it. Some had nothing to do with the historical foundation of it. They indeed have the advantage from it. What are we doing about it as a nation? This is a fight that will continue to go forward for generations until liberty and justice is equitable to all. The good news is, there are a plethora of concerned individuals (black, white, purple, red) who are successfully fighting against it and winning!

Fannie Lou Hamer was a phenomenal civil rights warrior for justice and equality. She was part of the Free Democratic Party in Mississippi. She was elevated by her convictions and motivated by her faith! She is a positive tribute to American history. There are documentaries of Fannie Lou Hamer that I encourage people of all walks of life to delve into. Fannie Lou Hamer is a Power Pretty Mama who is the apotheosis of courage. All people can learn something from her legacy.

The preservation of this country rest upon all of our shoulders. Fannie Lou Hamer will forever be inspirational warfare! Look at all the battles she had to go through just because she wanted to vote. We all have struggles in life but can you ever conceive some of the encounters she endured? Some of you still, will not participate in public policy or exercise your right to vote. Your voice does matter! That's what they want you to think. Why do you willingly allow others to make decisions for you and your community? Why?

I don't understand why one of my links will not play the entire YouTube video. The link with the word "battles" goes to the end of the video for some strange reason. Please rewind it and watch the entire video. Thanks!

BEFORE

I love celebrating other people's special "love days" (birthdays). This is an actual Bitmoji I used and of course I put my Sancti-Fly touches on it. It's not all that plain. It is colorful but check out the after effect.

AFTER

I used a background from Quotes Creator and added a few words and a happy face. You can definitely titivate it to your taste and personalize it to your Sancti-Fly style. They have so many wonderful things for you to select from. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!"

AFTER

Sorry, I don't have the original Bitmoji of this one to show you the before picture. Please try to visualize it. The only thing in the original picture is the words "You Rock" and the girl with her fist up. All the other things were added by me using your favorite new app, Quotes Creator. I added the "Power To The People" words on her shirt and all the other cute trimmings on the side. I am telling you, this is a fantastic app.

AFTER

I changed the colors on this one. You still ROCK in whatever color you dress it up with. I think this (Rachal) was the first one I did. The first picture (Teresita) was the second one that I did as you probably can tell how I blossomed in my ideas. The last line was very special. It is  Sancti-Fly and symbolic of Rachal's company (Lil Little and Quirky Finds) so I just had to add that to her already beautiful mind! 

BEFORE

The words, "I believe in you" are power and positive words. I encourage us all to use them on ourselves and others, often. Look at this picture! I believe I found this one on Pinterest. This is so cute, right? You have to believe in yourself!

AFTER

In this picture, letters and pictures can do wonders for you. They help you to affirm how to believe in yourself. I just added Happy Birthday and a few words, plus hearts an kisses. Don't forget the birthday smile. You were born to win!

​BEFORE

This is rather plain, right? I think so. It is a great message but wait until you see a little Quotes Creator in the mix.

AFTER

You can make this last forever. You can personalize your favorite names and add any message your heart desires. Cheers to strong women like you! 

I concede my stentorian blabber mouth had never imagined the cryptic behavior that was creeping pass me all the time. I didn’t even notice it. Irene and I were not close friends. We were associates at work. We understood our roles as co-workers. She was the head nurse who always enjoyed going on shopping sprees with me on our lunch breaks or when we had professional developments in other cities. Most of the nurses on our team adored their profession; what we did daily. We treated each other like family in light of us spending 12 to 15 hours a day together. Irene always spent her own money buying gifts for all of her patients and staff. Yes, she was immersed in a generous spirit. I think about her often. She use to always say to me, “Victoria, you’re going to bring us the victory we need today” anytime we had challenging task to complete as nurses. She believed my aura and name was a positive sign.

In retrospect, Irene didn’t embody the intrapersonal skills everyone thought she had. She was married with 5 children. They all wanted to be in the medical field just like Irene. She was close to perfection as you can get as a mom and wife. I recall her telling me how she use to get very weary about her kids (all under 18) always calling on her for everything. They hardly ever asked their father even if he was sitting right in front of them. They would automatically call Irene if she wasn’t home or if they needed help with something. I remember one year I attended one of her parties with my husband and didn’t want to fix his plate. Irene pulled me to the side to persuade me not to embarrass my better half in front of all the other couples that were in attendance. My husband is not like her husband. He really didn’t mind fixing his own plate. Her husband was a lawyer in a high profile law firm. I truly enjoyed the two of them every time I got a chance to attend one of their holiday gatherings. Irene invited everyone to her house; co-workers, family members and even folks she didn’t know very well. Irene and her family always performed a song with their family. They were the talk of the work environment at our hospital. People looked forward to Irene’s family putting on their family shows for us. 

One day Irene called me up to see if we could go shopping together. I did oblige. My husband was getting on my nerves really bad on that day. I told him to watch his kids; informed him where I was going and I left. Strangely, when I saw Irene she was in a different car. Her face appeared different and she had on her sunglasses. Her entire persona was altered; hair, attire and her make-up. I didn’t know who she was. We didn’t go shopping. We parked our cars by the store we usually spend all of our money in but we walked around the strip mall to the local coffee shop. We sat down and talked. She told me she was going away. I just listened to her and remained supportive. I didn’t ask her any questions. She told me she wanted me and her best friend Amanda to be the guardians over her kids if something ever happen to her. I was gobsmacked! It was an honor. I said yes and signed some documents. She told me she was going through a hard time and was going away for a week or two to get some rest. She told me she’d see me back at work in a week and she thanked me. Exactly 2 minutes after Irene left her husband called me on my cell. He told me he forgot to ask Irene something. He said he was trying to reach her. He thought her phone was on silent. He asked me if we were still out shopping. Her husband had called me before so I didn’t think anything of it. I told him we didn’t go shopping. I told him we decided to have coffee at Starbucks and that Irene had left a few minutes ago. 

Amazingly, I was clueless to the trauma Irene was going through. To me and the world surrounding them, Irene and her husband appeared like they were the perfect couple. The next morning, I received the news from Amanda that Irene was killed by her husband. She never made it to her trip. She was trying to leave him because he had been beating her for 27 years. Amanda said she knew about the abusive marriage Irene had endured with her husband. Amanda said she urged Irene to get help. Irene always made excuses for her husband and herself. One of the reasons Irene enjoyed inviting people to her house was because she didn't like being alone with her husband. She never wanted us to leave. Sometimes people would stay over her house until five or six in the morning with Irene. Those parties were like a safe haven for Irene because her husband wouldn’t dare hit her in front of their guest. Irene endured too many uncomfortable situations.

I have 2 of Irene’s kids and Amanda has the other 3. Her husband is in jail for murder. I feel terrible for telling her husband she didn’t go shopping on that day. He became indignant towards Irene for lying to him and killed her later on that night. I will never forget her. She was someone who remains unforgettable.

What would you do if you had a loved one or friend who was trapped in an abusive relationship

Allow me to incite a flame of concern regarding those who desire to destroy good deeds in communities like um, in Philadelphia. What is it that Appeals to you? There are so many issues to address. Perhaps reforming state parole systems is of vital importance to you, or maybe church burnings in the south. Shaun King will certainly give you the "Breakdown" on the liberty and justice for all, concerning politics in the mix for the liberation of all people who are not free to pursue happiness. On a lighter note, Russel Wilson and Beyoncé continue to make magical history in excellence. Please pay attention to these interesting mentions.

CHURCH BURNINGS REVISITED

This story reminds me of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing that occurred in the 1960s. Carolyn Maull McKinstry can tell you about that. Sadly, history has repeated itself. Recently in the southern states of Tennessee and Louisianan, there has been a climax of church burnings going on. Historically, black folks are unfortunately way too familiar with this act of terrorism, especially in the south. Back then, nothing was done about it. There was no justice, nor any peace. Racism and its ugliness permeated their pursuit of happiness to praise God. Yes, in 2019 this is still happening! As noted in ABC, Holden Matthew is allegedly the person responsible for the arson of three prominent black churches in Louisiana. Holden was part of some devil worshiping cult (black metal music) which probably influenced his evil motives. He burned down the Greater Union Baptist Church, St Mary Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. He was charged with 3 counts of simple arson of a religious building at the age of 21. Church leaders and members are on high alert. This attention is paramount to the black community and other religious communities as well. 

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY

Brennon Jones have been doing free haircuts for the homeless for 3 years. Jones even had the stamp of approval from the mayor. The Root points out that the Philadelphia Police department tried to enervate his good deeds in his community by telling him he had to stop giving free haircuts to the homeless. Why would anyone try to prohibit that kind of unity in a community? Mr. Jones wanted answers. He has been a pillar barber of his community. It turns out, other people in the business community was allegedly complaining about all that beautiful black hair floating around in the air like it just didn’t care. Hey, the hair was bleeding in free. Thankfully, it all worked out in the end. 

​

WILSON GETTIN' PAID
​
Congratulations to the American football quarterback Russell Wilson and his family (Ciara) and friends. This young man has made history at the age of 30. He has been highly favored, becoming the highest paid NFL player with a $140 million contract to stay with the Seattle Seahawks, as noted in the Root. Did I mention the $65 million signing bonus he got? Um, yeah! I think it’s time to start that celebrity non-profit organization that allows folks like Mr. Wilson and others to give to my student loan charity foundation (lbvs). God bless him and his iconic legacy.

BEYCHELLA IS BRINGING IT HOME

We already know who Runs The World (God). Girls, right (prayer)? Okay, so everyone is talking about Beyoncé Homecoming film on Netflix. It’s supposed to be a film about her concert performance doing her 2018 Coachella. She made history performing as the first black woman at that place. I think Netflix sells just went up. I certainly didn’t have Netflix. I was warned to get it a long time ago. If you like Beyoncé I am sure you will love this Homecoming film. Get ready to try doing all of the dance steps and sing your heart out!  

THE APPEAL

In a world were being informed with the right information about policies and laws that directly affect the black agenda and community, I have found The Appeal to be an invaluable source of survival. You find articles like the prison crisis in Alabama. I bet you were oblivious to that, right? Some folks tend to be less empathetic to care for black and brown people with mental illness and their medical needs. There are some inhumane things going down in the Alabama jails. You won't hear about it on your local news. You will hear about it if you get connected with The Appeal. The Trump Administration is not their focus. Their attention is on criminal justice and justice systems. If you are studying criminal law in college or in law enforcement of any field, please check out The Appeal.

SHAUN KING’S PODCAST (THE BREAKDOWN)

Shaun King successfully re-launched The North Star to combat racial injustice, mass incarceration, and policies that are imperative to systematic change. King currently has a Podcast called the Breakdown which is an extension of The North Star. The Breakdown allows King and his team the advantage of giving news stories from a perspective unlike any other media journalist. It is one of those podcasts you don’t want to miss. Please tune into the Breakdown as often as you can (on apple or spotify) so you can stay abreast of all the activism King is doing to change the world. As King fights against those who desire to keep racism, injustice, and corruption thriving, you will be informed.

ILLINOIS AND OREGON REFORMING PAROLE

In Illinois and in the state of Oregon things are changing in the parole arena for our young people. It’s about time! In Illinois, Governor J. B Pritzker is serious about criminal justice reform. In the month of April, 2019 he signed a bill that would allow parole review for young people who are incarcerated with long sentences. So if you committed a crime at the age of 15 and received 30 years or more, your case would be under review for possible parole after serving 10 years as noted in the Chicago Tribune. According to the Statesman Journal Oregon is on board for reforming their juvenile criminal codes. Individuals do need a second chance if at all possible. It is time for folks to start looking at the judges and other legislatures who are allowing these bad laws to go forward. It is time for parole reform! I hope Judge Scott Galina isn't making these kind of judicial decisions on anyone. Also, their should be fair and just punishments with all American citizens, regardless of their skin color. I personally have always thought it was not a good idea to throw people back in jail in light of them missing their parole. That doesn't make sense. New York has an appetite for reform too. Will your state be next?

I absolutely must mention these deep conditions to snatch your attention. The election of 2020 is approaching soon. If you do not get out and please exercise your American right to vote. I don’t know how strong our hope will be for radical ‘thangs’ to change the game for the betterment of all of God's people who were created equal. In light of Mr. Mitch McConnell of course, being down with the 2020 “team of Donald Trump” like the unyielding proud boys they are, I think
​we are all facing the most historic and toughest fight of our constitutional rights. What about making America give reparations again like they did in France? There is proof some veterans have received reparations so it’s not foreign. I am
thankful for the fundamental amendments of information that The Appeal often brings; shedding a light on how to break the curses of mass incarceration and give justice the red, white, and blue stripes of stimulation it deserves. There is still the debate of why Donald Trump just hates admitting he has done wrong to those black warriors known as the Exonerated 5. Pay attention to these notable interesting mentions. 

JUNE 19 (JUNETEENTH)

Privilege and dissonance to own American citizens as slaves was terminated as the folks in Galveston, Texas became enlighten of their freedom. Independence Day was enacted on July 4th in 1776 for Americans but not for all Americans. June 19, 1865 is known as Black Independence Day. Black folks in Galveston, Texas were completely freed from slavery. The slaves in Galveston, Texas found out a few years later in the month of June (Juneteenth) they were allowed to pursue their freedoms. General Gordon Granger was answerable for informing the enslaved they would no longer be oppressed and controlled. They were free! It was instant jubilation! President Abraham Lincoln wrote a document called the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1,1863 declaring an end to slavery throughout the United States of America. Galveston rejected the news of the memo. In light of not having enough representation of Union soldiers to enforce the new law in the state of Texas, the slave owners in Galveston opposed the law. Some of the masters in Texas did not want to let all that free labor go! They just could not rearrange their brains for the change.

This is why we celebrate June 19th. This is why we organize and fight against those who wish to abridge our freedoms. I didn't learn about Juneteenth in social studies as a child. It's disgraceful how this kind of history is not being shared in our educational systems like European history is. No one is saying you are guilty of what your ancestors did. If you are continuing in the same pattern, you are certainly adding to the problem that America has not fully dealt with, slavery. The chapter of repression and servitude was over for the folks in Galveston, Texas. The fight against tyranny continues. 

TRUMP 2020

Trump is running for a second term to be your president again. He wants your vote. He came out swinging hard punches to the left. Not so much to the right. According to Trump his administration went through the greatest attack in history orchestrated by those darn democrats. He articulated how the Democratic Party is “driven by hatred, prejudice, and rage.” This is absolutely not American. It is not something we are used to in American politics, right? The HuffPost points out maybe Trump is too! Well it’s not like President Trump is the president for all people and has influenced the signal to embrace white nationalism, right? So there is no way Donald Trump could be driven by hatred, white nationalism, and rage. It must only be those demonic democrats causing all of this American division. Trump also blamed those crazy democrats for obstructing justice. Mr. Trump stands by the fact there was no collusion or obstruction on his part and in his administration. There has been a high-turnover in his administration. I’m just saying. Trump lashed out at the media for writing fake news about him. He could not end without labeling Hilary Clinton a crook.

Trump goes on to inform us and the Republican Party how the democrats desire to destroy republicans and America. This is why he must make America great again. It is not acceptable what the democrats are doing. The irony of him stating that the democrats don’t care about Russia is questionable. Trump further claims the Democratic Party only care about their own political power. Isn’t that what all the members of congress do? If you claim to be down with the Democratic Party or the Republican Party you will have to fight to make them work for you. It’s so true. Both parties actually have major symptoms of kakistocracy leaking heavy in each, equally. Number ​45 vocalized how disappointed he was as he alleged how the Democratic Party went after his family, his friends, and his finances. Donald Trump proclaims if you vote for a Democratic President in the 2020 election, you will no longer have free speech? Trump articulates, if you vote for a Democratic President you will get radical socialism and the destruction of the American dream will be gone. So, are you voting next year? I hope so!

THE DAILY APPEAL​

Where can you go to find out law and order? What’s going on in the criminal justice arena? How do you feel about mass incarceration? You can certainly go to The Appeal. If you want to stay abreast on new laws, or on laws affecting your neighboring family members from state to state, you might want to try reading The Appeal. They are linked to a savvy plethora of sources. You can subscribe to The Appeal and get information sent directly to your emails daily. If you had police officers embarrassing you and your city making other officers look bad by posting racist comments on Facebook wouldn’t you want to know? Of course!
InjusticeWatch confirms that this occurred. You can also snuggle up close with evidence on how they administer justice to folks. The Appeal notes how Tiffany Cabán was motivated to run as the District Attorney for the people in Queens (New York). Did you know Alabama there was a sheriff who destroyed lots of property, depleted funds and he faced no consequences? Yep! They have a lack of accountability. ProPublica shines the spotlight on this story.

​These are the kind of stories The Appeal will hook you up with. Do you think men and women who are incarcerated should be allowed to vote? Well, as explained by The Appeal a few states have allowed it for their citizens. The states listed are predominately wypipo states. I am telling you, get connected to The Appeal. In the STLToday a federal Judge ruled that folks cannot be thrown in jail if they cannot make bail. It is unconstitutional. This is a good move for the city of St. Louis! So shall other states follow the 8 amendment.

UM...SO NOT SORRY

I really do not believe Mr. Trump would show any remorse. All the folks who actually tell lies, he pretends they are telling the truth. Maybe if the men had a shade of their pigment that was lighter he might have uttered something close to an apology. White nationalism will not permit Trump to say he is sorry. It really speaks volumes as far as his leadership goes. When a man places thousands of his money in newspaper ads to influence the judicial system of 5 young boys, calling for them to be subjected to the death penalty without knowing all the facts in the case, that is blatant racism. We are not a bit surprised. Although Trump is very aware the Exonerated 5 did not do what they were convicted of, he does not care. Please continue to pray for this president. Trump says they admitted their guilt. The NYPD surely did not make those boys lie. There is no way they did that, right? There is no way they beat them and withheld water and food. There is no way the New York Police Department violated their constitutional rights by interrogating them for an extended amount of hours without their parents being present. That never happens in some police stations across this country. 

WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON

Something does not seem right about this story. It makes no logical sense at all. It was reported that Everett Palmer was in jail and while in jail he began to inflict pain on himself due to agitation. He was hitting his head and that caused him to die? His brain, tongue, and throat was removed. It was missing. Why was his organs missing? Come on New York County Prisons. Everett Palmer was only 41 at the time of his death. I pray the darkness in Mr. Palmers' situation turns into light and those responsible for this are exposed. I know I am not by myself in this prayer. This should not have happened. The family is taking a stand to be
proactive. They have every right to find out what actually happened to their loved one. Is this how we treat an American citizen who just happen to also be a veteran?

YA'LL HAD A BLACK PRESIDENT

Wow! Where do I begin with this story. Mitch, Mitch, Mitch! Brother McConnell appears to think exactly how old white men who upholds the standards of the confederate flag are supposed to think. When he was asked about reparations for black folks or descendants of slaves, he confidently said he was opposed to it because it was just not the best of ideas. Mitch also stated that the United States have tried their best to make up for their sins. He said they gave American black folks landmark civil rights but black folks fought for that legislation. It firmly was not given freely as it should have been. Mitch also added that America has had a black president. The statement was truly comical. Yes Mr. Mitch, we sure did have a black American president in the white house. President Barack Obama was the president for all people. When he was president Mitch, you and all of your cronies tried your best to block every piece of legislation he tried to pass. Do you remember that?

​Anyway, I find it rather strange for Mitch to verbalize how no one currently living is responsible for the disparities of mass incarceration in our criminal justice system. As the Majority Leader of the Republican Party Mitch, what about the disproportions in our educational system, or the inequalities in our economic system? The outstanding preponderance of evidence is not cryptic. It is rather staggering. I could go on and on until the break of dawn like a #1 hip-hop hit song. Please tell that to the people in Flint. What about Travon Martin's parents? Tell that to Tamir Rice family. Can you please whisper that to the Exonerated 5? What are you talking about Mitch? It's not like the United States haven't done it before. Yet you state you don't even know how to distribute compensation for reparations. There are all kind of American people who experience the violation of their constitutional rights daily. What are you guys (Democrats & Republicans) doing ​in Congress? "Knowing your true history is knowing your true power!"

There is so much power and love setting the atmosphere with grace anytime you're in the midst of gospel music. There is a time and a place for everything serene on the gospel scene of medicine music. I believe all music helps you feel some kind of way, rather good or bad. Gospel music ministers to the abyss of your soul. It intensifies your faith and it fights against fear. I can only testify to all the seeds gospel music has sown in my life. This 'twisterrific' edition of Black Music Month is centered around the motivation of gospel music. You never have to worry about inappropriate lyrics. Gospel music is always safe and good music to listen to around little children. Try listening to other forms of music, like gospel music. 

Let's soothe and groove to the tunes of gospel music. I've decided to continue giving honor to the legacies of the warriors known as Exonerated 5: Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Yusef Salaam, Raymond Santana, and Korey Wise on purpose. These five men were wrongfully convicted of rape. They are free now. I wanted to do a mixture of gospel songs to touch upon their lives before and after their stories. The songs below are not comprised of any particular year. I included the year it all happen in 1989 with secular songs I did a few weeks ago. I am dangerously in love with their resilience. Music heals all people. It brings us all together. If you haven't heard of the Exonerated 5, I encourage you to watch the story about their lives. Ava DuVernay produced a splendid film on Nexflix. 

Those of you who have not heard of the five boys who were wrongfully convicted as teens must be from another planet. They spent years in jail; injustice at its very best. Then they were freed when the real person came forth for the crime. The world is talking about their story. Knowledge is power for agents of change. As young teen boys their lives and childhood was erased. They surely did not understand why it had to happen to them. Mentally it was hard to handle what they went through as kids. God was with them every step of the way.  I know we've all been there. The beautiful thing is, God was preparing them for so much more. An exceedingly and abundant destiny was in God's plans for them. All the folks who were designed to deposit something in their lives are doing so. All the connections and assignments of God's purpose have came to past. Listen to this song. Please listen to it! We don't always understand why things happen or the way things occur. God is preparing you. He is getting things ready for you! He is setting the atmosphere especially for you. You are going to make it!

Victory came and changed the game for the Exonerated 5 in 2002. Freedom was its middle name. They went to jail as young teens and came out as adult men. The day God sets you free from something you are free Indeed! Praise the Lord! No more chains were able to hold them. The Exonerated 5 warriors spent a combination of about 40 years in prison for a crime they did not commit. It was God's timing to set them free! To you I say, keep pressing on. Hold on to your faith. It will happen for you too. Listen to this song over and over again. Don't remain stuck in something God has delivered you from. You are free! You may have to speak to your atmosphere. Shout "SET ME FREE" then believe it! If you are locked up or incarcerated, remember they can't imprison your mind. You're next! Receive it!

Intercession penetrates multiple blessings when Kim McFarland sings it. I concede I am bias because I adore Kim McFarland. The magnitude of criminal justice reform and awareness of these issues are happening in light of stories like the Exonerated 5. People are interceding for change of the entire criminal justice system. It is happening! All those folks who played a part in destroying the lives of the Exonerated 5 are reaping what they have sown. Those who are continuing in their illegal injunctions for the sake of politics will fall down soon. Prayer is thick in the atmosphere. Intercession is the invisible secret weapon that threatens the lives of those who are walking in destruction. Prayer is helping to make things better for the Exonerated 5 and others. You must listen to this song. Intercessory prayer commands the ears and eyes of those to care. It makes folks change their wrongs into right. God will deal with them. The Exonerated 5 had lots of intercession on their behalf. You do too! People are praying for you. You are not alone. 

Let the redeem of the Lord say so for the Exonerated 5! If you have been redeemed by the Lord you are free! This thing is personal. That's the end of it. When the Exonerated 5 was released from prison folks had the nerve to say they still did the crime they spend years in jail for. It is simply immoral for human beings, who persecuted the Exonerated 5, not to apologize. When you know better you do better. They intended on making them infamous on rape charges they had nothing to do with! The detectives, the persecutors, and the entire system still think they did something in the park back in 1989. You can be an ex-addict or ex-prostitute and people will try to put you in a box. Don't give them the power to dictate to you what you are. You know you're not that person anymore. If they want to snuggle up close to foolishness let them. If it makes them feel good to look down on you and your past, so be it. They are leaking with some form of pain. They need lots of prayer. You don't owe them anything. Let love, peace, and God's redemption influence you, not them. Let the redeem of the Lord say so! I had to go old school gospel right here.

Truth came to light! Now these beautiful black and brown Exonerated 5 brothers are living in light and love they deserve. I am so ecstatic about all the people surrounding these men with a foison of love. They are truly blessed. You are blessed! Think about the good things positioned around you. Focus on that.

God will fight your battles for you. Believe me I know it! This powerful song is so uplifting. Sometimes you don't even have to do anything. God will use his angels (men and women) to fight against those who have tried or is trying to vainly fight against you. Who do you think will win? God will! The beautiful black men known as the Exonerated 5 are true testaments of this. All kind of folks are fighting with them and for them. It is a major movement. The women involved in their case has definitely felt the backlash of their actions. Won't he do it! Yes he will! 

After the storm the Exonerated 5 reigns in brighter days.They have made friends and connections with folks all over the world. They are alive to celebrate with friends and family. They can enjoy holidays and birthdays to the fullest. They are famous in the best way ever! They met Oprah and Ava. They had their stories done as a major successful film. They are living out their dreams. They are doing a lot better financially. They are giving back to their families and communities. God was preparing them for this moment. God is using them for his glory! They are history! They are love! They are survivors! You will have brighter days. It is coming! Hold on! Brighter days will happen for you too! 

It is time to exploit all the irkahliciousness running rampant in the land. There are some irritants that trouble people and there are dangerous incidents of major irkahliciousness that kiss us on the wrong cheek, so we wipe our face off when we encounter it. Your affection can be rather distracting! I would like to introduce you to a few more irks I’ve noticed this year.

MAJOR REACTIONS TO DISTRACTIONS

In 2019, you do know that there are apps that you can put on your phones and new technology in your cars to help you stay focus on driving; not on your cell phone or any other distractions. I promise the grace of God is on all of us. There have been so many accidents due to people who still do not believe that texting and driving is hazardous to the lives of others and themselves. Those of you who are still smoking a cigarette while driving and texting on your phone are very selfish. You don’t even think about all the love you have at home and in the streets. People really do love you. How about that? If you lost your life over a text message, you would really be missed. If you killed someone over a text message, those poor choices will hunt your conscience for the rest of your life. Another person’s family will be grieving because of you! It’s not worth it! It can wait! Turn off your phone until you get to your destination. I can't stand when folks are texting and driving by me. I always rush to move away from them. Some of you have the nerve to have tinted windows in your car so you can text and drive but when you are swerving like you are intoxicated, we know! PLEASE JUST STOP!

GROUP TEXT IN EFFECT

I really have to say this again! Please be mindful, group text messages are not favorable to all. Also, stop taking it so personal...dang. It is a person's choice or prerogative if they wish to receive group text messages or not from you. Some people do not like getting bombarded by random conversations on their phones long after a group text message was sent. Yes, there are individuals who still prefer you sending them a single message instead of a group text message. A single text is communication between you and the other person. Like the sender and receiver. A group text message is communication between the sender and all the people they sent the text message to, therefore, please do not assume it is okay to send everyone a group text message. If you are unsure, ask. 

DON'T STOP (PLEASE STOP)

So each day as I mind my business and go on about my day, I notice that some of you guys in America hate stopping at stop signs. You are lucky I am not Sancti-Fly Mama the police officer. I would give you guys a ticket, like ALL OF THE TIME if I saw you pausing at a stop sign. Church folks (the worst), friends, and family would be included too. Please do not get mad at me for following the law. You are not suppose to pause. You are suppose to stop! I understand lots of folks do it. That still doesn't make it right. Then you all have the NERVE to be upset at me for making a complete stop when you are behind me. Oh well, because I like stopping completely at the stop sign. You need to learn how to do it. I bet if the police was behind you, you'd stop at the stop sign and NOT pause. I can't tell you how many times people have acted like their world was coming to an end because they were behind me and I stopped completely at a stop sign. Well, get over it. I am going to stop. You are obviously the problem. This is how accidents occur. You are in a rush to go nowhere. Maybe you need to discover how to stop at the stop sign again. Act like you are taking your driver's test every time you put your foot on your gas and STOP! 

THOU SHALT NOT LEAVE CARTS 

Civility 101 allows me to know some of you skipped that class. Why is it when I go to any grocery stores or shopping centers there are always folks like YOU (you know who you are) who never put the shopping carts back where they belong. Do you know how many times I have tried to park in a good parking space and was interrupted by a shopping cart that someone left. I have often had to remove lots of carts out of the way in order to park in a parking space in the parking lot of a grocery store because of people like YOU. Instead of putting the cart back where it belong, you leave it in the middle of the street, or where ever you feel like you want to leave it. What's so wrong with putting the cart back? Why are you so lazy? I bet you could use the exercise so walk your lovely self on over to the area where you put the carts back and put them there. It's common courtesy. I hope you are not with your children when you exhibit this type of poor behavior. You're not showing them a good example. I pray that you will stop leaving shopping carts in the middle of parking lots and return it where it properly belongs. I don't think that is asking for too much!


LIVE PERSON PLEASE LIKE A HUMAN BEING​

Ring…ring…ring! “Okay I’m just going to have to wait and listen.” Please listen carefully as our menu has changed. If you would like to speak to technical support please press 1. If you are calling about a new account please stay on the line and someone will be with you shortly. If you would like to talk to someone about a misplaced, lost or stolen card please press 2. If you wish to leave a voice mail message please press 8. If you want to make this message private please press 1. Please say the last four digits of your social security number. If you are calling due to fraud please hold on for the next available agent; we do appreciate your business. “Dang let me put them on speaker because I got things to do.” Are you still there? Please hang up and try again! “What! Did they just hang up on me?” This call may be recorded for quality and training purposes. If you would like to take a brief survey to let us know how we are doing please stay on the line after this call. “Um no, I already stayed on here too long! Can someone please just pick up the phone? May I please speak to customer service?” Okay, I’ll get you over to customer service. Thanks for calling us and letting us waste a lot of your time today! Please stay on the line and a customer service representative will be with you in 2 minutes. WAIT! We are experiencing a high level of calls right now. If you would like for us to call you back please press.. "Never mind...never mind."

 “Be ye always nosy” was the blueprint of my Sancti-Fly grandma Lula. My grandmother's neighbors were exactly like her. They were extremely nosy. It was their signature to know what was going on at all times in their community and who everybody was. My cousins and I consistently visited my grandmother as young teenagers. We were always monitored by our elders. We always talked about how nosy they all were. One day I recall a jamboree of my cousins, cater-cousins, and I hanging out with our individual friends on the corner by my grandmother’s house. Two of my grandmother’s neighbors came outside with their Noxzema skin cream on their faces and head scarfs to tell us we were making too much noise. They told us they had to work in the morning. They could not sleep in light of a passel of us hanging out after midnight. In retrospect, I honestly concede we were being a little disrespectful. The music we were playing was disruptive. We were way too loud; hanging on the corner at 2 a.m. in the morning as young ladies with our slyboots. Our excuse was that we were right in front of our grandmother’s house; this is what young people do! We certainly knew better. We were stringently raised to respect our elders.
 
Wisdom is the pledge of allegiance against gormless intellect that was used by my grandmother and her entire community of informed citizens to keep us all safe. I totally get why they were as nosy as they had to be now that I have the sagacity of a prudent mindset. Ariel Castro kidnapped 3 young girls (Michelle Knight, Amanda Berry and Georgina "Gina" Dejesus) in Cleveland Ohio during the years of 2003-2004 and held them captive for 10 years. He raped them and he abused them. He treated them like animals, keeping them chained and locked up. He even had a daughter by one of the girls. Ariel Castro would not have lasted for a decade if he lived near my grandmother and her neighbors. Their inquisitive minds would have suspected that something was not right. How can we live in a civilization and not be a little nosy or watchful? We have to stop minding our on business when suspicious interruptions calls on us all to take a dip in being nosy and high sips of humanity for our society. I encourage all of us to be nosier. I know I am! My neighbors know I am just like my Lula (lol). Also, please watch your kids when you are out in public stores with them. Countless times I have observed many children walking by themselves in public stores and their parents are not near them. If I was a child abductor I would be filthy rich in abducting kids. Too many women are lackadaisical when it comes to ensuring their kids are by their side in public stores. Stop taking your children's safety for granted people! Sadly, I could have snatched so many kids. I so get why my mom, aunts, and grandmother always told us as children to make sure we were by them at all times when we entered public stores and places with them. When they moved, we moved! We could not touch anything, ask for anything and if we misbehaved we knew there were consequences coming after we left the stores.

Interestingly, people are so quick to assume nothing criminal can ever happen in their neighborhoods if they live in a certain area or town. This is antediluvian thinking at best. A friend of mines who lives in another state once told me about an incident that occurred in his city. The FBI went to serve a warrant to a man who was living on the same block as he was. The man allegedly was a member of a gang and a drug dealer. My friend said he was totally gobsmacked by the information. His neighbor was under investigation by the FBI for a few years. The entire street they lived on was closed down doing pursuit of my friend's neighbor by the FBI. All the local schools in proximity of their address was on lock-down as well. The story was all over the local news. The man did not surrender to the police. He was found dead in his house. He allegedly shot at some of the FBI agents (so you already know). Some of the neighbors who lived by my friend said he was a nice person. My friend agreed. Please remember suburban cities are sometimes the best area for criminals to hide out in or lay low in. Granted, if there is ample opportunity for someone to live next door to you and you are clueless of their illegal behaviors of molesting children, child abduction, or drug dealings, shame on you. It does not matter where you live! It can and will happen! There are always signs…always! Criminals can be nice neighbors. It is time for you to take a dip in being nosier with your neighbors and in your community. If you see something speak up and say something. If something appears strange or seem off, check it out!

What is it that you get? Do you allow understanding to slip by you with no evidence of empathy and sympathy attached to your humanity? Are you a person who is always so quick to judge, drowning in stereotypes with all of your lovely might? As my Lula (grandmother) use to say, keep on living, you'll get it. I pray that you will!