I started this blog approximately five years ago to keep everyone abreast of my “goings-on” while deployed overseas in Iraq. The blog was my passion until Uncle Sam decided to start monitoring AND censoring everything I had to say. What did I do? I just shut the blog down.

In the blog’s second incarnation, I decided to make my blog more about what I wanted to do with my life. I dedicated a lot of time to my interest in branding, marketing, and selling. For the most part I thought it was interesting, but rarely did I get much traction (or readership) for my writing.

In the third incarnation I decided to make my blog all about changing the world. This rebirth, like the others was quickly destroyed after I just gave up on writing.

So what will the new rebirth hold? Well in a nutshell, it will just be me….uncensored. This is my blog, why not? I think I have a lot of interesting commentary to share. In the end, we are best at being ourselves so that is what I will set out to do. Without the pressure of trying to be clever or blog about something everyone wants to read, I will just provide my own commentary about whatever is on my mind. I think that will be a whole lot of fun…let’s go!

Often times I have been asked “How Can I Change the World?” Honestly, there is no one way in accomplishing such a great feat. My personal hero, Thomas Edison, changed the world by not quitting. He boldly proclaimed that he was never a failure, but found ways that did not work. Likewise, people like Martin Luther King Jr. and Al Gore have changed the world by pushing their dreams and passion to the limit.  These individuals provide a good example to follow in changing the world.

I believe that we all have the capabilities to change the world.  This act, however, does not have to extend around the globe to be successful. Mother Teresa once said “If you can feed one hundred people, just feed one.” Well I encourage you to do the same.  Thomas Edison was successful because he continued to keep trying. Personal Branding expert Hajj Flemings calls it GRUSTLE, grind + hustle. Here are a few pointers in changing the world with hard work.

• Set clear and concise goals - All to often, we work harder without an end in sight. Although hard work is always good, with no clear goal your work will easily fall by the wayside. Write your goals down and ensure that they are visible to yourself and made known to others. Thomas Edison knew what he had to accomplish, the work he put in was the clear path towards his goal.
• Never quit - Giving up is too easy to do. We all do it very often in many areas of our lives. If we are not successful, we just give up. Recently, I was rejected not once, but twice in applying to a job that I felt that I was well qualified for. What did I learn? I was not doing something right and I will just have to go back to the drawing board. One thing is certain, I will not quit. Many people have quit prior to meeting their goal because of some obstacle. It took Thomas Edison 1,000s of missteps before he struck gold, more than likely it will take you more than one try to change the world.
• Pay it forward - Changing the world will not work unless others share your dream. So you should pay it forward whenever you can. Seek out opportunities to bring others in on your efforts to change the world. Whether you are helping teach disadvantaged children or building schools for an area with no schools, paying it forward will help you build capital to achieve.  Thomas Edison paid it forward by bringing on William Hammer to assist him with electrical lighting. Who can you help in your quest to change the world?

With a new week upon us, think about Thomas Edison and how he was able to change the world. Use his vision and work ethic to accomplish the impossible. Then maybe you can be like him and change the world.

Having trouble smiling? Follow these simple tips:

Think of something you really enjoy – We all have those moments that we are very proud of. Replay these memories in your mind and it will help you smile through the toughest times.

Imagine your wildest dream(s) coming true - What is your dream? Imagine it coming true. As a matter of fact, always imagine your dreams coming true, it will give more meaning to your life, and success.

Pay yourself to smile - If you can’t break a smile try this – pay yourself to smile! While it may be a difficult really accurately charge yourself, thinking about paying yourself $1 every time you genuinely smile at someone. At the end of the week you should have a nice chunk of change that will certainly put a smile on your face.

Still not convinced that smiling will change the world? Well here are some personal reasons that you should smile:

1. Smiling makes you more attractive
2. Smiling reduces stress
3. Smiling helps the immune system
4. Smiling makes you seems successful
5. Smiling helps you stay positive

So change the world and smile!

What are some ways that your smile has changed the world?

1. It allows me to build my personal brand
2. Fosters creativy
3. Allows friends, family, and strangers a glimpse into my mind
4. Safe way to get thoughts out of your head
5. Builds my writing skills
6. Great way to meet other people like myself
7. Excellent stress reliver
8. Enhance critical thinking skills
9. Provide a basis for your expertise
10. IT IS JUST FUN

I will be sure to post more often in the future. In the meantime, I encourage you to join me on other social networks:

Twitter – Follow Me

Facebook – Become A Friend

LinkedIn – Are we connected

Today, Martin Luther King Jr would have celebrated his 80th birthday if he had not given his life for a greater cause. His legacy is, arguably, greater than any person in American history for a variety of reasons. I know he is smiling from heaven to see Barack Obama elected as the President of the United States. His smile, however, would not just come because Obama is an African American, but because he is a man of the people. Many people think of Martin Luther King Jr in terms of the Civil Rights Movement, but his contribution extended to all of the “little people” all over the world. I encourage you to ponder these questions as you reflect on the life of Dr. King on his 80th birthday:

How has Dr. King influenced your life?

What are you doing to ensure his dream lives?

How will you make this dream a reality for future generations?

I Have A Dream

King’s Last Speech

Just stay busy, stay workin’…The key to staying, on top of things is treat everything like it’s your first project…like it’s your first day like back when you was an intern…just stay hungry.

-The Notorious B.I.G.

Any hip-hop fan will probably say that the Notorious B.I.G. is one of the greatest MCs of all-time. Although his life was tragically taken at a young age, he became legendary where others have fell short. What pushed him to become so great? While many will say his talent did, I believe his attitude toward success helped propel him. Like The Notorious B.I.G. just treat each day like an intern. Whether you are running a multi-billion dollar business or managing a lemonade stand, here are a few simple steps to achieving the success that you have dreamed about.

1. Seize every opportunity  – the beautiful things about successful interns is their willingness to learn. Why do people lose this zest once they become full-time employees? Unfortunately, for a large portion of us we have a lot to learn. Instead of resting on your laurels, reach out and connect with those who can help you achieve your dreams.  You never reach a point were you have arrived, the learning process should continue with books, periodicals, listening, seeking mentors and your growing network.
2. Volunteer for projects – When I joined the military, my father gave me one sound piece of advice “never volunteer!” While this advice did get me out of some pretty humiliating duties (port-a-potty clean is NO fun), it did little to build my reputation as a team player and a leader. Interns who are serious about gaining employment often find themselves doing routine tasks such as making copies,  fetching donuts, or making endless phone calls. In the end, they are most likely hired because of their likability, and willingness to sacrifice for the team. Ask any successful person you admire and they will tell you that you have to pay your dues at some point. Whether you volunteer for a huge project at your job, or an inconspicuous duty at your church, giving yourself to others will pay huge dividends. Give your time without expecting anything it return. In the end, you will come out much better than when you started.
3. Never pass up an opportunity to impress – Interns are constantly under the microscope when working. One little action can make or break their opportunity to get that important job. Every little detail from your dress to how you speak at a presentation will make a lasting impression on their potential employer. As we grow in our careers, however, we often become stagnant and let those “little things” get in the way of our success. We care less about impressing others, and slowly begin losing our relevance to those around us. Seek ways to go the extra mile in everything that you do. Whether it is impressing your employer or spouse, a little bit of extra will go a long way.

While The Notorious B.I.G. ultimately will be branded as a “gangsta rapper” by popular culture (getting gunned down isn’t the best way to go) he had a good idea on what it took to be successful.  Treat everyday like an intern, and you will begin to realize your success growing.

Yes He Can!

On November 4th, 2008 I will be voting for president for only the third time in my life. Unfortunately, the candidate that I supported in both 2000 and 2004 did not end up becoming President. The person who did win the office, in both cases, will be leaving the Presidency with many problems for our next leader to face – the war and the economy are top issues which will need to be addressed immediately. In this election, I will be voting for Senator Barack Obama because I feel that he has what it takes to led our nation in tackling the many issues of the day. If you are unsure where Obama stands on the issues that you can about, you can read Obama’s entire Blueprint for Change here. There are many reasons that I believe that you should vote for Barack Obama, but here are a few reasons that he has my vote.

He will end the war responsibly

On May 1st of 2003 President George W. Bush declared “Mission Accomplished” in Iraq. Since that time, not only have I been deployed to Baghdad, but hundreds of thousands of men and women have been sent overseas in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In the time since the President’s declaration 4,050 people have died in service of our great country. This number includes a fellow solider from my deployed unit, 612th EN BN, SGT Jeremy Hodge. In addition, there have been well over 100,000 soldiers wounded in combat and many more families separated and strained. The war began as a measure to protect America from a future attacks, a preemptive strike against Saddam Hussein’s evil empire. The war continues to rage on despite his removal and execution. Still many men and women continue to serve and risk their lives for a war that should have been finished years ago. Barack Obama, however, has made a pledge to end this war, responsibly, and focus our military efforts on the enemies who have sought to destroy our country. The Bush doctrine has failed, now is the time to change our strategy and try a new approach in the war on terrorism – diplomacy. As a former member of the Armed Forces and veteran of a foreign war, I understand the need for America to protect herself. I also understand, however, that we must act responsibly and use force as a last resort in solving problems abroad. With his stance against the war, when it was unpopular, I believe Barack Obama has what it takes to end the war and protect our country.

He will protect our families

As a father and husband, nothing is more important than my family. With each passing day I am worried about the future for my family. The soaring price of gas is pale when you consider it against the rising price of food or the astronomical price of health care. The last few months have been a roller coaster ride on Wall Street and many people face the fear of losing their homes. Barack Obama has what it takes to protect our families. His mantra of change from the bottom-up resonates because people are tired of turning to government to solve all of our problems. While I belive the government should play a role in the problems of the day, only me and you can start that change. Obama will finish the job by providing more people with reliable healthcare, protecting American jobs, and focusing on empowering our future through education. I proudly served my country, and in turn, my country helped provide an education for me. Obama will continue this tradition, with great vigor, for those who will serve their country in the military or PeaceCorp. His plan for education includes less standardized testing for elementary students and a voluntary universal pre-school system. This will give our future more time to learn about pushing America to greater heights in the future.

He has bought excitement to the political process

My grandmother, Queen Esther Seay, is 85 years old and will be voting for the first time in her life. You might wonder why she has never voted, but as an African American woman in the deep South voting never really seemed to help her situation or the situation of those around her. She witnessed first hand the evils of Jim Crow; lynchings, segeration, and voter suppression were commonplace for many years for my Grandmother. No matter who was in office, very little changed. This year, however, she will be exercising here right, as an American to vote for the President of the United States. She will be joining millions of people who will be voting for the first time. Obama is the first person in my lifetime, that has inspired so many people to be interested in the political process. Many people have compared Obama to JFK for this reason, because he represented a change from the status quo. Unlike McCain, he is not a career Washington insider who is used to the same old stuff. He is a person that posseses numerous life experiences that will enable him to be an effective leader. Barack Obama has inspired so many because he is the Rocky of this election. He has been an underdog (despite his strong poll numbers) for many reasons; he is an African American, he is young, he lacks political experience, he has a funny name and many other reasons. Yet, he has remained the course and driven home a message of change.

Overall, I am proud to witness history in the making. Barack Obama will be the first African American to hold the office of the President in a country that is not too far removed from slavery and Jim Crow. Our country does have its problems, but we have progressed so far to in have this possiblity upon us. While I understand that Barack Obama will not be a perfect President (who was?), he is a step in the right direction for the country I love. For these reasons, I will be voting for Barack Obama and I encourage YOU to do the same.

Crispus Attucks fell so that Rosa Parks could sit, Rosa Parks sat so that Dr. Martin Luther King could march, Dr. Martin Luther King marched so that Barack Obama could run and Barack Obama is running so that our children and grandchildren can fly

Crispus Attucks

Crispus Attucks will forever live in American history for his sacrifice to our great country. Crispus Attucks in known to be the first person to give his life for America in the infamous Boston Massacre. Crispus was an African American, with Native American blood that set a foundation for the beginning of the American Revolution. As a 27 year old runaway slave, he defied many odds to become the symbol for a young nation. His fall enabled another African American heroine to change the world….

Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks is widely known for her refusal to give up her seat on a bus in the segregated South. This small act led to the beginning of the modern Civil Rights era. Her act of defiance provided the impetus for great change in a nation that was at the cross roads. Her small demonstration helped launch one of the most influential people of all-time….

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr is arguably one of the most important figures in not only American history, but throughout all-time. He epitomized the “turn the other cheek” doctrine in the face of vast opposition. He organized people, and led our country into true change. He stood for what was right, and he died much to soon before his dream was realized. Because of his dream, we have a new hero….

Barack Obama '08

Barack Obama has filled the void that African Americans having been missing for so long, hope. He has stepped on the scene to remind us, that the American dream still lives in all of us. Despite many long odds, he has connected with millions of people across the world to empower us for great. He has showed many that unlikely people, like Crispus, Rosa, and Martin before him, can accomplish extraordinary things. Whether he becomes the President or not, he is an example of hard work persistence and the American dream.

Who knows what the future holds for tomorrow? Only YOU can determine that!

Today’s task included coming up with a game that included cards and dice…what fun! We developed a new game that we called “Tonkalicious“. It is very easy, you roll the dice and draw the number of cards that you roll. The person with the lowest total face value wins. In a four person group, both my mentee and I won once and we decided to try our had at War.

We concluded the day by going through a contract and discussing our expectations of each other. He really is looking forward to me helping him improve as a student, and it will be my honor.

Overall, was able to really connect with my mentee. I think we are really starting to connect and make so headway. He admitted that his grades were down for a variety of reasons, but he is ready to make a change. If you haven’t volunteer to help with our future leaders, you really should…it is a great feeling!

This got me to thinking, what are the worst negative political campaigns of all-time?

The Daisy Ad

The has to be one of the most chilling negative campaigns (considering the times) ever. Lyndon Johnson was able to pander fear in order to defeat Barry Goldwater in 1964

This has to be the most effective ad ever. With the rise of the Soviet Union at the time, this was a realistic fear which scared people into voting.

John McCain’s Black baby

Shortly after John McCain beat George Bush in the 2000 Republican primary in New Hampshire, a whisper campaign was started in South Carolina. The campaign was spread via a phony poll that asked Republican voters “Whether or not they would vote for McCain if he fathered a illegitmate Black child.” The simple accusation was enough to turn the tide and power a Bush win in South Carolina, and eventually, the Republican nomination.

McCain’s whisper campaign against Barack Obama most likely got it roots from this event. The Bush administration honed in on McCain’s dark-skinned adopted child to plant the seed of doubt in voters minds. One of many instances were race has been used to discredit someone.

The Willie Horton ad

George Bush Sr invoked this commercial to defeat Michael Dukakis in the 1988 presidential election.  It helped power Dukakis defeat as many envisioned him as soft on crime.

This was an effective use of many Americans worse nightmare, the Black felon. Like the daisy ad, this preys on Americans inner most fear, that of insecurity. Associating this fear with a candidate helped dismantle the credibility that Dukakis had built. Would this ad had been effective if the individual was another race? It played on stereotypes, and people instantly made the connection.

Swift Boat

After 2004′s presidential election, negative attacks earned a new name “Swift Boating”. Kerry’s military service was attacked and he was accused of being unpatriotic. Many people believe this is what powered Bush Jr into his second term.

Overall, the campaign was effective because it discredited Kerry’s ability to handle the war in Iraq, at least to the common man. He was seen as a traitor, and some one that the American people could not trust.

Hopefully, in the next two weeks neither presidential canadidate will resort to negative campaign to bolster their chances of winning. What about taking a page from product/service advertising? I truly believe that people want messages of hope, not fear. The daisy ad, in my opinion was the (best) worse political ad because it connected with people’s innermost fears, harm upon our children. Now take the poll and tell me what you think!