Racism tension in 2007...is this real?

Why does it seem that all of our little dirty secrets are starting to surface more and more. I know discrimination, hate crimes, injustice, etc have around forever, but why now. Why is everything happening?? To make things, worse there are people who hate their own kind. For me, it goes without saying that I love my african-american people, but for some people, this couldn't be further from the truth. What boggles my mind is when people disassociate themselves with people of their own race. It's sad enough that there are hate organizations in this world that don't like an entire group of people based on the color of their skin alone, but to hate the race in which you are a member is pure ignorance to me. There have been countless forums and studies done on this topic and the things these people say always seem to amaze me. Their reasonings behind hating their own race are so ridiculous it really makes you feel sorry for them. Check out this recap of a show Tyra Banks did not this topic earlier this year. http://tyrashow.warnerbros.com/show_recaps/show_recap_mon74.html What's your perspective on the topic. If you are one of these people, please share you story and opinions.

...On my journey of growth (October 2007)

So....I want this website to be a way to achieve growth in many aspects. One of the areas which my not be as essential is the growth of my hair. As woman (African-American) it sometimes seems as if achieving maximum growth is impossible...or not what we want it to be. About a year and a half ago, my hair was the longest it had every been; a little below the shoulder. It was long and healthy. Due to the change in weather because of my change of location (moved from South Carolina to Oklahoma) as well as a hair boo-boo, my hair is not where is use to be. The biggest change is that I don't go to a stylist frequently like I did during that time. I know some of you can understand how hard it is to find a good stylist who actually listens to what you want and cares enough to tell you when they aren't capable of achieving that goal. Since I've been in Oklahoma, I haven't been able to find a stylist that really meets my needs, which I think are sooooo basic. I would like to achieve a head of healthy hair at it's maximum length. I usually wear wraps (roller, doobie, or flat), straw sets, and sometimes braids. Lately I have been wearing weaves to try to give my natural hair a rest, but I really would like to continue to wear wraps and such because I like to wear my natural (relaxed) hair. Sooo...I have said all of that to say, I am on a mission to have long healthy hair and will welcome any suggestions or tips. Currently, trying a growth regimen I found at http://www.growafrohairlong.com/. If anyone reading this has ideas, stories, or is growing their hair as well, please share. If you have pictures...feel free to post them so we can celebrate your progress as well.

It's about that time again!

It's that time of year again where we all have to pack up our spaghetti straps and peep wedges and pull out our sweaters and stiletto boots. I love wearing different types of clothes and styles but sometimes I have an issue with putting that extra "tang" on outfits that will make them stand out. I have a closet full of sneakers but lack dressy/casual boots and things that I really adore and love. I tend to buy pieces rather than outfits. So when its time to put together something nice...I have a whole bunch of things that don't necessary mesh. I think I have eye for spotting nice clothes that don't cost an arm and leg...I just could use a little "boost" on the coordination of it all. What are some of your techniques and "how-to's" for setting trends and standing out in a crowd?

Relationships are something that we cannot avoid. We will always have to develop a relationship with someone whether good or bad. It is up to us to make the decision of whether that relationship will be a positive or negative one in our lives. There are a number of things that factor into how we perceive and accept people. For me, how I feel about myself and how I feel I am viewed more than often plays a factor in how I react and socialize with others. This can be and has proven to be a dangerous and stressful way to live. When you aren't sure of yourself and who you are as a person, it will affect they way love and act around others...even the people who love you most. I am a testimony of this and can tell you that you MUST change that immediately. You will put relationships and life as you know it in jeopardy because of the distant, isolated personality that portray. When you aren't sure of yourself, you tend to build a wall and not open up and love others the way you should. Relationships of every kind being marriages, friendships, family, etc will be affected negatively. People who you love and who love you will start to feel neglected and uncomfortable around you because that is the way you treat them. I was told by someone very important to me that he felt that I seemed uncomfortable around him and that my happiness seemed forced. WOW!! That is something that will make you think and put things in perspective. This person happens to be my husband. Things aren't always as good as they should be in relationships because one or both parties aren't opening up and giving their all to the relationship in every way; mentality, physically, emotionally. The reasons for not doing so can come from anywhere and be for hundreds of reasons. The key is be open with the people you love...tell them how you feel so that they will be given the opportunity to understand; and possibly help you to overcome. Laugh, cry, joke, argue, fuss...don't hold back. Putting things out in the open will ensure that everyone involved understands what they are faced with and from there can address them. People can't change what you don't know is a problem. If you truly love someone and want him/her to be apart of your world; treat them that way. Make those people feel like they are important and that you want them around....or end up alone. What's your take on this??