Write it Down - How I Reach My Goals

You want to know how I accomplished this blog, moved to New Orleans, wrote for other publications, started a business, etc.?  I wrote it all down on paper.

“Write it down on real paper with a real pencil. And watch shit get real.”

— Erykah Badu

My people, there is power in the pen.  I've not only read a few books that attest to this fact, I've also tried it....and it works.  There's something about reading or writing that triggers your subconscious brain.  When you write your goals down and read them over and over, your subconscious brain begins to think about these goals more actively - which in turn causes you to begin working towards them.  Writing your goals down makes them become clear and tangible.  It gives you a clear picture of what you want, it will push you to take action, and it will allow you to see your progress. 

“You are 42% more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down. ”

— Dr. Gail Matthews

I write down whatever I want whether it's big or small.  I place my list of goals in a notebook that I carry with me 90% of the time or on a computer or mirror so that I can continuously see them.  I constantly refer back to my list of goals to make sure I'm on track or to revise them, and then I execute a plan to accomplish them.  I even write down clothing items that I want to buy!  And you best believe most of them eventually end up in my closet! LOL

“People with clear, written goals, accomplish far more in a shorter period of time than people without them could ever imagine.”

— Brian Tracy

I challenge all of you to get a piece of paper out and write your goals down.  No matter if they are big or small, weird or funny - write them down, believe that you can accomplish them, read them over and over, and work towards them.  The goals you write down won't be accomplished over night, but I bet you sooner or later you'll see yourself getting closer and closer to what you've written down if you take action.  

So what are you waiting for?  Go ahead - write your life. 

P.S. - Real quick, let me express how proud I am of our President - Barack Obama.  He did an outstanding job.  I am blessed to have witnessed his tenure.  I am so thankful that my niece and nephews got to witness him as the leader of our nation.  I'm grateful that my 89 year-old grandfather got the chance to vote for him right before he passed away.  I'm ecstatic that my 92 year-old grandmother got to see him serve two terms.  I salute President Obama and his beautiful family.  They maintained their integrity, kept it classy, and loving when half of the world wanted them to fail.  They gave 200% to this nation, and made some monumental changes.  President Obama will go down as the smoothest, most debonair, most loving, most fairest President ever!!!!  He's so bomb!  I mean come on...will there ever be another President who knows all of the words to Bell Biv Devoe's song Poison?? 

No matter who lives in that White House from here on out, I will forever be singing Jeezy's song "My President is Black!" 

Farewell Obama!!! Salute!

- Samjah Iman

The Royal Chapter...

Before I closed the door behind me, I sighed and slowly turned around to reflect one last time. I looked at the living room, then the kitchen.  A small smirk came across my face as I began to reminisce about the many emotions that transpired between those walls during the past 9 years.  I experienced some beautiful memories in that place and heart wrenching ones too.  As my eyes began to scan the area for the last time, I spotted a faint red stain on the carpet that was made years ago.  I chuckled.  I remember the night that stained was made and the drinking game that was being played which caused the stain.  My eyes then quickly darted to a corner. I shook my head as I remembered sobbing uncontrollably in that space one day after receiving a text message that knocked the air out of my lungs.  I stood frozen in a daze thinking, "Man, some stuff went down in this place and memories were made that I will keep with me forever."  I became a little emotional then quickly waved the feelings off.  I shrugged my shoulders and slammed the door.  There was no need to reread that chapter because I had already started reading the next one, and just the first sentence of the new chapter has me on the edge of my seat, anxiously awaiting what's to come.  The first four words of the new chapter reads, "Welcome to New Orleans!"

I finally made the move from Baton Rouge to New Orleans.  I know some of you may be thinking that this isn't a major move, but to me it is - especially since I had been in my current place for almost 10 years.  You see, this is a move I've been contemplating for a long time but didn't make a reality because I didn't want to start over, make new connections, find new grocery stores, get to know new neighbors, new smells, new sounds, etc.  I was comfortable where I was with my usual routine...and talking about moving felt good, visiting the city with the reality of going back home felt good, but actually moving and staying in NOLA was another story (yea, that whole What is That in Your Hands post I wrote was for me).  Then one day, I had an epiphany.  I thought to myself, "how can you grow if you only do what's routine and comfortable?" I literally had an "ah-ha" moment, and from then on I began to put things together for the move.  Just a month before this epiphany, I had the opportunity to sign another lease at my previous apartment which would have locked me in that contract for another year, but something told me not to sign the lease.....something said "step out on faith - I got you." And let me tell y'all this, my spirit wasn't lying.  I've stepped out on faith, made the move, and God has shown up and out. 

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase. ”

— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Now, as I type this, I'm chilling in my traditional New Orleans pad, baking some chicken, swaying my head to D'Angelo, and writing to ya'll.  I just got to the city and already I've eaten at the best pizza place - Theo's Neighborhood Pizza, had the best hamburger at Camellia Grill, watched the Saints get embarrassed this past Sunday in the Super Dome, had some delicious blackened red fish and smothered cabbage at Jacques-Imo's, and browsed through some unique, cultural paintings at Frenchy's Art Gallery.  To say the least, I've hit the ground running.....and I'm nowhere near tired yet.  

Frenchy's Art Gallery

I'm not sure what The Royal Chapter in NOLA holds.  But I do know the author who wrote the chapter, and His books are always dope (shout out to God).  Therefore, with the help of this renown author, I plan to make this chapter a page-turner.  Get ready!

P.S. - I'm excited to take you guys on this journey with me!  Stay tuned for pictures of the Queendom (my spot), my neighborhood, and more!

- Samjah Iman

Prepare for the Fight

In continuing my message I posted on Monday, I thought I'd share some insight that I received from Bishop TD Jakes about two or three weeks ago.  During one of his sermons I caught on YouTube, Jakes preached that life is a fight, and God is our sparring partner which means He is training and equipping us to win the fight.  I thought about what Jakes was saying and a light bulb popped on in my head.  Instead of wishing that I won't have to fight life all the time, I'll go into it ready for the fight.

I'm not looking for a break anymore.  I'm prepared to work hard for whatever I want.  I was talking to my friend Fish Plate (funny story how he got this nickname) about the recent events and the message I received from Bishop Jakes, and he said something that was real.  He said, "Everybody wants to be Oprah and have Oprah's money, but no one wants to experience and live through the struggles Oprah dealt with before she became Oprah."  This is so true because we often look up to millionaires and stars and wish we had their lives, but we never know what their fight was to get where they are. And you better believe that each person we look up to has had or is having some type of fight - that's just life.  

“Don’t want to do the dishes, just want to eat the food. ”

— Unknown

There is always going to be challenges in life.  Traffic will be heavy, our bank account will be missing some zeros, people will be mean and bias, unqualified people will become presidents of countries, the hot water heater will stop working, it will cost a lot to start a business or go back to school, our gas tanks will be low, girlfriends and boyfriends will leave, husbands and wives will disappoint, the brakes will go out, the car will stop running, the computer will freeze up (this is a sure way to make me run up and down the street screaming), the boss will ignore our accomplishments, blah, blah, blah, blah. Shit happens.  Many people will experience all these things and feel like God has not favored them.  This is the furthest thing from the truth.  God is actually training us for bigger fights to come because it doesn't get easier my loves, it gets harder.  The more successful we become the more responsibility we will have - and that's when we'll really have to scuffle. 

“Mo money, Mo problems. ”

— Notorius B.I.G

I stopped complaining about every little thing that was holding me back and started mentally preparing for the hurdles.  In the past, I knew they were coming but was hoping that God would spare me.  Now I know they are coming, and I use the strength that God has equipped me with to knock them all down.  Do I get tired of fighting?  Yup.  Do I feel like I have lost at times? Of course.  But I will not be defeated because I've got things I want to accomplish.  I will not let life get in the way and have me waking up one morning with regrets.   

Life won't let up - so we can't either.  The more we fight, the stronger we will be.   

So here's to life - Moma said knock you out.

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - I've been jamming to a Tribe Called Quest's latest album.  It feels good to have some music with depth to listen to.  So far I'm digging We The People, Kids, and Melatonin.  I will continue listening to discover more songs. 

Being Single During Cuffing Season is Lit!

“I’m known to walk alone but I’m alone for a reason. ”

— Beyoncé

I got the chance to do some guest blogging on my girl's website - Moments N Melanin.  In this article, I discuss why being single is a good thing and why my single point of view is currently the best point of view. 😀  Check out the article here.

P.S. - America is scary right now, but God has our back.  He works in mysterious ways, so let's let Him work.  We've survived worse. 

Am I disappointment? Yes. Defeated? HELL NO!!  I'm about to jump in my Jeep, blast my Kendrick Lamar CD "cause we gon' be alright!"  

Keep the faith...

- Samjah Iman

Stay Woke - Be Heard - Be Stylish

The most stylish thing I can do is not wear the perfect jeans, or flex in the baddest shoes, sport the jazziest coat, or pose in the perfect sunglasses - the most stylish thing I can do is VOTE. 

Photo Credit:Presidential Gender Watch. 11/6/16 http://presidentialgenderwatch.org/gender-matters-status-check-gender-gap-presidential-primaries/

I encourage you all to get out there on November 8, 2016, and exercise your right.  I don't need to blog on the history of voting in our country because you all already know what it is.  I just came through to say, "don't sleep - show up."

Let's represent on Tuesday. 

Photo Credit: PSD Graphics. 11/6./16. http://www.psdgraphics.com/psd/photoshop-empty-and-vote-buttons/

Stay Woke, Be heard, Be Stylish - VOTE!

- Samjah Iman

What is That in Your Hand?

Some time ago I heard the story of Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3-4) from the bible being told in a way that relates to everyday life.  It had been about a couple of years ago since I've heard the interpretation of that story, therefore I had pushed it to the back of my mind, but this past weekend I was reminded of it.

Briefly, the story is about God calling Moses to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt and from under Pharaoh's control.  When God called upon Moses, Moses gave God a bunch of reasons as to why he couldn't complete the task that God had given him.  This has been me for the past month. 

I've been on that Moses tip reeeeeaaaaal hard.  I have been faced with an opportunity to grow, and up until this past weekend I have come up with 127 reasons why I couldn't.  I've said everything from "I don't have the type of money I would like to have right now to complete the task" to "I need to get some things situated first before I do it." Then as I was sitting in solitude this past weekend trying to get my mind right, it hit me.  I was reminded of what God asked Moses. "What is that in your hand?"

You see, Moses was giving God reasons as to why he couldn't execute the plan that was assigned to him and then God said, "Dude, what is that in your hand?" Okay he didn't say it quite like that but you see where I'm going.  Moses then answered him and said it was a shepherd's staff.  God then asked him to throw it down and Moses did, and it immediately turned into a snake. God was basically showing Moses that he already possessed the skills and resources needed to complete the task - all he had to do was use them.  God was basically saying , "Bruh, quit tripping and do what I asked you to do. You got everything you need already.  Just do it.  I got you!"

When I thought about this particular story in the bible I immediately got motivated.  I felt like this story came to me because God was telling me to stop worrying about what I don't have because I already have everything I need - and to move forward with the opportunity presented, and He'll do the rest. 

We may not ever have everything we want to have in place to complete a task given to us or to go after a goal we've set.  There will always be a reason to make excuses about what we do not have, but I'm learning that it's not about what we don't have.  It's all about now, and what we do have. 

Stop procrastinating and do what you have to do with what you have now.  He'll provide what you're lacking.

What is that in your hand?

- Samjah Iman

Shut Up

Have you ever had a wonderful idea, exciting news, or new companion that you were super stoked about and as a result you decided to share your enthusiasm with someone, and they killed your vibe on the spot?  Yup, that has happened to me too - a number of times, and then I finally decided to apply some advice my grandmother gave me several years ago....shut up.   

“Don’t tell the dishwasher what you did with ya dishes.”

— Jeezy

My grandmother once told me that you can't tell everyone what you're doing.  Boy was she so right.  You see....everyone has an opinion.  Everyone will tell you what they would do if they were you, but the key factor is - THEY ARE NOT YOU!  I've learned over the years that it's okay to talk to a chosen few but not everyone because some people only want you to live a certain way that makes THEM feel comfortable.  They don't want you to do too much, go too far, or be too great because it makes them feel bad about their circumstances.  Everyone doesn't need to know your every move or your next move because not everyone has your best interest at heart, not everyone is satisfied with themselves so they project their negative vibes on you (misery loves company) and, most importantly, not everyone understands YOUR destiny/journey. 

“Never let ‘em know your next move - don’t you know bad boys move in silence? ”

— Notorious B.I.G. (Ten Crack Commandments)

I once heard Bishop TD Jakes say that we need to stop receiving counsel (from people) that doesn't line up with our purpose.   You could have a brilliant idea or new interest, but you let your idea die or interest fall by the wayside because of how someone reacted when you told them about it. And now that person who reacted negatively to your idea is living his or her life while you are stuck not pursuing your goals or living your life.  Just SHUT UP!  Bring to fruition whatever feels good in your soul and then share it with the world.  Just remember to guard some of your passions and goals before you birth them because not everyone needs to put their energy on your dreams, and not everyone can see your vision like you can see it.

Get your purpose, keep it to yourself, and carry it out.    

- Samjah Iman

Just Do It

A lot of us are waiting for the perfect moment to begin working towards our dreams and goals.  I got some news for you, THERE IS NO PERFECT MOMENT!  One of the best slogans/advice comes from Nike - JUST DO IT.  It's simple as that.  Just jump in there and do what you have to do to accomplish what you need to accomplish.  I'm not going to preach today or go on and on about this subject.  I just wanted to drop this quick message in your space and tell you to Get up, Get out, and Get something!  

The saying goes " a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."  I encourage you all to take that first step today.  Whether it's a major step or very small step - just do it.  It won't be easy, but I'm sure it will be worth it, because you never know where that first step will lead you.        

Make something happen on this hump day. 

Hustle hard,

- Samjah Iman

Studio BE NOLA

The older I get the more I crave substance - nourishment in all aspects of my life.  My body needs water, spinach, mushrooms, sleep, bike rides, and long walks.  My mind looks forward to being enhanced by in depth conversations every now and then.  My soul thrives off of culture, prayer and stillness, positive energy, travel, books, time with close friends and family members, a good Jill Scott, Erykah Badu or Kendrick Lamar CD, spiritual teachings, and art.  I'm no longer that young girl who could survive on junk food only.  I am now a grown woman whose existence and prosperity is dependent upon soul food.         

With that being written, my soul was fed this past Saturday in New Orleans, LA.  A friend invited me to view an art display titled Studio BE.  Before arriving to the art studio, I didn't have any expectations.  When I pulled my Jeep onto the broken gravel which sat in front of the building that housed the art, my eyes grew big and my mouth hung open.  My first thought was, "man, my people are so amazing."  I was in love.  Studio BE had me at hello.  

Studio BE, birthed by visual artist and filmmaker Brandan Odums, is an art transformation of a 35,000 square foot warehouse in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, LA.  Studio BE includes paintings and spray paintings of civil rights leaders, activists, social issues, pop culture, New Orleans history and culture, musicians, writers, and famous sayings.  While observing all of the beautiful colors and images, I felt like a kid all over again.  I couldn't contain my curiosity and joy.  This studio is a must-see if you are ever in New Orleans any time soon.  However, just in case you can't get this way in the near future, I looked out for you and captured some photos of the art.  Live the Studio BE experience through my eyes below.          

The purple in the painting below represents the water line in a house that was flooded by Hurricane Katrina. 

My appetite for art was fed this past weekend.  Upon leaving Studio BE, I felt inspired and proud.  The talent and knowledge my people possess is out of this world.  I will never forget my Studio BE experience.  Thank you friend for inviting me....I owe you one.  

For more information on the artist, visit Brandanodums.com or follow his work on social media @studio_be_ and @bmike2c.  

Feed your soul.

- Samjah Iman

Faith or Fronting?

The only differences between me, you and most extremely successful people is that they have faith, they believe in themselves, and they take action. 

Some of us love quoting faith scriptures because it's embedded in us to do so or because we actually like the way they sound.  We are quick to say "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" but won't act upon what we profess to believe.  There are people that have the whole Book of James plastered all over their cubicle wall at work, but won't start that baking company they've been dreaming about for the last 10 years.  Where they do that at??  If you feel you can do all things and if you believe He lives in you then why haven't you acted on your beliefs?  Are you waiting for some magical, successful dust to be sprinkled on you?  Well here's some news, there is none.  He helps those who help themselves.  

“But even when you pray, the next day you gotta try. Can’t wait for nobody to come down out the sky.”

— CeeLo Green

Believing in yourself is believing in God.  Believing in you means that you believe you were wonderfully made by Him and that you can truly do all things because He lives you.  That's some real power people - let's ACT ON IT!  

We have four months left in this year,  let's take a leap of faith, put in the work and see where it leads us.  If it doesn't work out as planned, at least we will have gained strength, courage, and wisdom.

Boss up!

- Samjah Iman

How to Face Failure, Obstacles and Detours With Grace by Chela Mitchell

Life will have its challenges, and there's nothing we can do to prevent them.  However, we can decide how we approach and deal with those challenges.  I was reading my girl's blog (chelamitchell.com), and I came across an article she wrote on how to face failure in a more positive way.  Click here to check the article out and take heed.

“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”

— Charles R. Swindoll

Happy Hump Day!

- Samjah Iman

Enjoy the Journey

Sometimes in life, we get so preoccupied with our ultimate goals and success that we forget to enjoy the process that leads us to achieving these goals and success.  Think about it like this. Say you and your loved ones are taking a road trip somewhere. On the way to the destination you pass a lot of great scenery, restaurants, and popular landmarks, but you don't take the time to stop and enjoy these things because you are so focused on getting to your destination.  Yes you eventually make it to your destination, but you've also missed a lot of potentially fun, everlasting memories along the way because you were only concentrating on one part of the trip, not the trip as a whole.

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Oftentimes we treat life and our goals just like the trip described above.  We don't take the time to enjoy other things that are happening around us because we are only concentrating on the bigger picture.  We are so busy running through life trying to make something happen that we are missing precious moments. 

I hear people talk all the time about what they are going to do when they finally accomplish a goal or reach a certain status.  My question to them is, "What are you doing in the meantime?"  Life shouldn't be on hold until you reach a desired point.  Life is a road that is meant to be traveled and lived at all stages because you never know when that road will change or end. 

Don't wait for the perfect moment to live.  Enjoy the scenery on the way to that perfect moment.  Living on the way to your perfect moment will make your perfect moment that much better.

On another note, I am helping out a family that lost everything during the flood in Baton Rouge.  The family consists of a mother and a daughter who is in the 9th grade.  If you would like to join me in assisting this family, please email me at samjahiman@styleandenergy.com for more information.  Your help and prayers are greatly appreciated.   

I'm enjoying the journey.  Are you?

- Samjah Iman

6 Ways to be Unbothered by Social Media Shenanigans

Hey ya'll!  Here's a must-read from my fellow blogging sister, Kayla Alexandria - curator of Moments N Melanin.  She dishes out some good tips on how to navigate these social media streets.  Social media can become an addictive burden that will have you questioning yourself and side-eyeing people at the same time!  Read her post to see how you can control social media and not let it control you! 

Read 6 Ways to be Unbothered by Social Media Shenanigans

- Samjah Iman

One Reason Why You aren't Elevating

You haven't transformed your mind.  Simple as that.  YOU ARE NOT ELEVATING BECAUSE YOU HAVEN'T TRANSFORMED YOUR MIND.  I could drop the mic and end this post right here, but I dig y'all too much for that.  So I'm going to elaborate a little.   

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t — you’re right.”

— Henry Ford

At one point in my life, negative thoughts began to take up space in my head.  Once I noticed this, I began reading different books that preached about how powerful the mind is and how your thoughts can control your existence.  As I researched this topic more I found that what these scholars were saying about how positive thinking can transform your life, aligned with what the bible teaches on thinking.    

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.”

— Proverbs 23:7

I began to apply the techniques I was learning about positive thinking to my life, and it made me view the world different.  I wasn't as stressed any more and every situation worked out in my favor because I always found the blessing in it, not the negative.  I started believing I could achieve certain things and acting as if I could achieve them, and I actually started to achieve them!  It's crazy how something as simple as your thoughts can hold you back.  Your attitude definitely determines your altitude. 

Not only is thinking negative detrimental to your well-being, holding on to grudges or having a strong hate for something or someone also affects your energy and in most cases your health as well.  Be careful about wishing bad thoughts on others, these thoughts can easily affect your life instead of theirs.  Remember, forgiveness is not for the person who wronged you, forgiveness is for you so that you won't have that burden weighing YOU down.  

It's all about keeping a healthy spirit and sound mind.  It's also about believing that you are destined for greatness and acting on those beliefs.  It's not easy blocking negative things out of your mental space, it takes daily practice (this I know for sure).  Below are four small things you can do to make sure you keep your mind and spirit in a positive realm. 

1.  As soon as you find yourself thinking negative or having hateful thoughts, quickly replace those thoughts with something positive.

2.  Surround yourself with positive people and put yourself in places that give off positive vibes.

3.  Make a gratitude list and add to it each day or when you're feeling low.  You can write something as big as "I'm grateful for my health," or something as small as "I'm grateful that I ate red beans and rice today."  Gratitude lists remind you of how blessed you are and keeps you looking forward to more blessings.

4.  Whenever something challenging occurs, look for the lesson and the blessing in that challenge instead of concentrating on the challenge itself.  

Your mind is a tool that can liberate you or limit you if you let it.  Thoughts really do become things.  What you have going on in your heart and mind will show on the outside so keep your thoughts cute and positive.  Think love and spread love and watch it come back to you tenfold.

May positive thoughts and vibes be with you all!

- Samjah Iman

We Will Be Heard

For the past few days, Baton Rouge has been heavy.  The tension in this city is smothering just like the humidity that fills the air.  The roads look empty, the sky is not as bright as it usually is, certain people are more friendlier and accommodating than they have ever been, others are tired.  I am one of the tired ones.  After the tragic event in Baton Rouge on Tuesday, another one occurred in Minnesota on Wednesday.  I could not believe my ears when I woke up that morning and turned on the radio.  "Another black man wrongfully killed by the police?  This can't be life!"  Then the disastrous event in Dallas struck.  It all felt like a dream - a bad one. 

For the rest of the week, I had this unbearable weight on my shoulders.  I called my mother to explain my rage, fear, and hurt.  She reminded me to do what I had to do, be careful, then "cast my cares."  I then called my friend and explained to him how I wanted to make a big difference in the world, and that I would start with myself that day and work my way up to my people.  He simply explained to me (of course by using a fashion analogy because he is so considerate of my comprehending abilities - bless him) that I'm just one stitch in a shirt.  I cannot hold the whole shirt together by myself.  It takes my stitch and all of the other stitches to hold the shirt together.  He then told me to be the best stitch while understanding that it will take all of the other stitches to make the shirt be whole....not just my stitch.  I went to sleep on his and my mother's words and woke up Saturday, July 9, 2016, feeling energize and full of purpose.  For on that day I was going to be an awesome stitch and do a tremendous job in holding my part of the shirt together.  Then after I had done everything I could, I would cast my cares to God.  So I got up, did some work, and headed out to do some fashion shooting and ended up protesting with my people ( I originally intended on protesting Sunday only; however, the energy was so strong in Baton Rouge that I couldn't help but jump in the mix Saturday). 

Me, my friend Georgette, and hundreds of other determined African Americans took to the streets of Baton Rouge to voice all of our emotions regarding our lack of support and justice from the government. We marched from Baton Rouge City Hall to the Louisiana State Capitol chanting and holding our fist high.  See the photo below that was captured by the Advocate - a local newspaper in Baton Rouge, LA.  After that picture, see the protest captured through my camera lens.                   

Photo by Brianna Paciorka - Baton Rouge Advocate - www.theadvocate.com - Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

Baton Rouge Protest for Alton Sterling

I am so proud of my people and this city I reside in.  We came together and expressed our feelings in the most peaceful way.  It was powerful to say the least.  I hope and pray that we continue to come together in all aspects.  We are more forceful as a group than we are as individuals.  Let's all do our part as stitches to hold the shirt together. 

Peace and Blessings

- Samjah Iman X (lol)

Makes Me Want to HOLLER!

To protect and serve huh?  Don’t they mean to only protect and serve one kind?  This is disgusting and unacceptable!  Something has to be done about these trigger-happy policeman and their warped mentalities!  This incident should be our breaking point; as a matter of fact, the first incident like this should have been our breaking point.  We have to do something about it now!  Alton Sterling of Baton Rouge could have easily been someone I knew or worse – someone related to me.  I pray so hard for my brother’s, cousins', nephews’, god-son's, and male friends’ lives, but today I feel like my prayers are not enough.  Work has to be done in addition to prayer.

Creating t-shirts adorned with police brutality victims’ names on them or posting motivational sayings and hash tags on social media shouldn’t be the only things we do to show our sentiments this time.  We should take it back to the days where we walked for hours or did whatever necessary to demand justice.  We should make some noise in our communities continuously so that our voices are eventually heard.  We should come together as a culture and show just how strong we are collectively, and that enough is enough.  I’m ready for a change, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that all black men can live in a society where they are not feared by police but protected by them – just like their Caucasian counterparts.  I will be participating in the protest here in Baton Rouge on Sunday, and I hope my blog readers who are located in Baton Rouge will do the same.

A note from the desk of Dr. Saulsberry –

It’s happened again, and it’s coming again! What you ask? Another “questionable police shooting of a black young man and those critics who will inevitably turn the incident/conversation to “black on black crime.”  The only commonalities between black on black crime and police brutality are: guns, a quick temper, questionable judgement, and an action resulting in a young black man being dead. The major difference is that the police officer is “supposed to be a trained professional with the skills to determine and take actions that will de-escalate a situation resulting in positive results for all involved.  They are not supposed to be a professional acting out of anger, feelings of disrespect, or fearing for one’s life (the classic excuse).  The “street thug” acts out of anger because they feel disrespected or fear for their life as well.  They, however, have no de-escalation skills or training to turn a hostile situation around.  Both reactions end in the death of a young black man.  Again, the major difference is that the police officer is supposed to be a mature and skilled professional sworn to uphold the law (not to be the judge, jury, and executioner) and to DE-ESCALATE a situation. They obviously have the skills to do so, because as Jesse Williams stated in his BET Awards Speech, “Police somehow manage to de-escalate, disarm and not kill white people every day.” …

Why is it that they can see the humanity in others but not in us?

The difference apparently is as stated in the Cameo song Skin I’m In (written by Larry Blackmon).  “I’m so frustrated and flustered.  At what has been riddance to justice?  Is it immoral or a sin?  If it is, according to the skin you’re in….skin you’re in”

I’m sick and tired of just being sick and tired! I need to do something else, and I am. What about you?

- Dr. Saulsberry

Now back to our regularly scheduled, good-vibes program.....venting has subsided. 

Peace and Blessings

                                                                                                                                                             - Samjah Iman

5 Reasons Why I Love HBCUs

As a kid, The Cosby Show used to be my addiction.  Each week I anticipated seeing that family on TV who resembled my family and other families I knew.  I was in awe of the story lines, Denise Huxtable's fashion choices, and the positive perception the show exuded.  I remember my mother scolding me about something, and I bravely stood up and said to her, "Clair Huxtable wouldn't talk to her children like that."   Yea, I was hypnotized by the show.  Therefore you can imagine my excitement when Denise went off to college and A Different World was born.  I thought I had died and gone to television heaven.

After witnessing the characters on A Different world, their colorful personalities, stylish gear, trendy hairstyles, the camaraderie, and how proud they were to be at a historical institution - I made up my mind at a young age that Hillman College was my school of choice.  It wasn't until later that my dreams were deferred when I discovered that Hillman only existed in the television world.  "What?  Hillman isn't for real Momma?"  I was disappointed.  

My disappointment didn't last long because I was later introduced to nonfiction Historically Black Colleges/Universities..  My mother would take my brother and I to college Greek shows and football games so that we could see what campus life was actually like.  We were amazed at the sea of African American people we saw gathering together for the pursuit of higher learning.  When I actually got the chance to attend an HBCU, I developed a deeper understanding of why they are so essential in our culture.  Below are five reasons why HBCUs are life.

1.  The Culture – The atmosphere feels like your old neighborhood or high school. You feel like you're a part of a family when attending an HBCU.  You are the majority, and you fit in everywhere you go.  You don't have to be quiet in a classroom because you feel that your opinions don't matter.  You can be just who you were meant to be.  There are no funny stares from people, no one clutches their purse, or moves to the far side of the sidewalk because you are walking by.  It's a homey vibe, and you fit right in. 

2.  The People - While attending an HBCU, you get the chance to interact with tons of people from all over the world that look just like you!  Almost everyone at an HBCU has similar backgrounds, goals, and struggles so it is easier to relate to your peers.  When one person accomplishes something major at an HBCU, everyone feels the win.

3.  The History - Every HBCU has a story behind its doors.  Either it's a college/university where a sorority or fraternity was first established, or it's a college/university that educated profound leaders like Thurgood Marshall, talented actors like Taraji P. Henson, or creative souls like Erykah Badu.

4.  The Education - The education you receive at an HBCU is priceless.  When I took my first film course at Howard University, I learned so much about African American filmmakers that I never knew!  A friend of mine from Nigeria once said to me that he learned more about Africa at his HBCU than he did from living there. 

5.  Life Lessons – HBCU’s tend to prepare students for life.  Most HBCU campuses aren't blessed with state-of-the-art facilities and the latest technology.  Long lines are nothing to us because we learn how to endure them on the first day of registration.  If a child doesn’t already have tough skin, they will surely develop it at an HBCU.  Our students have to work harder than students at other schools to be noticed and to receive the accolades we deserve.  Therefore, when we graduate and go out into the real world, we are equipped to endure whatever comes our way and ready to put our best foot forward. 

An HBCU is more than just an institution.  It’s a familiar world within an unfamiliar world that cultivates as well as indoctrinates our kids.  HBCU’s not only prepare students for jobs, but also for life and the many injustices that come along with it.

I'm proud to say that I am a HBCU Graduate (Grambling State University '03 and Howard University '06), and I thoroughly represent it through my actions, accomplishments, and perseverance.  Check out my HBCU Grad tee below that I purchased from HBCUGRADshirts.com (they have other cool shirts as well).  You all know I love a good t-shirt, especially one that states the truth.     

HBCUGRAD Tee

HBCUGRAD Tee

HBCUGRAD Tee

Have an extremely awesome week everyone.  Put your game face on and slam dunk anything that comes your way like my boy LeBron James and the Cavs!!! Go Cleveland!!!

HBCUGRAD Tee

     - Samjah Iman

The Five Musts

Happy Hump Day!  I wanted to share some motivational/insightful information to carry you through the rest of the week.  Some time ago I read a book by John Assaraf titled The Answer.  This book touched on how to grow a business, achieve financial freedom, and live an extraordinary life by applying the law of attraction to your world.  The law of attraction simple means reprogramming your conscious brain to envision positive things for your life.  The more you envision these positive things, the more your subconscious brain is changed.  As a result, you will automatically work hard towards what you believe you should have, and positive things will come.  

In this book, Assaraf lists five key elements that must be in place in order to achieve major success.  Check them out below.  

• You must find something that stirs your soul.
• You must become excellent at it.
• You must recondition your mind to believe you can have it and achieve it.
• You must understand how to make money at it.
• You must take daily action. 

I wrote these five things down and have carried them with me since reading this book.  I read them over every so often to keep them at the forefront of my brain.  When I took them out to read them last week, I thought sharing them with you guys would be cool.  Take heed and believe!  

- Samjah Iman

The Maturation of Samjah Iman

We made it through another week! 

Last week got kind of challenging for me, but I gave it my all.  I didn't complain though because it's all about becoming the fearless woman I am meant to be. I welcome challenges because they equip me for this journey I am on.  Below are three things I took from last week that I will share in hopes to inspire you as well:

1. Let it go - This is a lesson I am constantly learning everyday of my life.  I once read a quote that said "The world is won by those who let it go." - Lao Tzu.  Now to me this quote doesn't mean do nothing.  It simply means give it your best then give it to God.  This upcoming week I will give each task and situation my all, then set it free for the universe to work its magic.  

2.  Embrace growth - Growth can be uncomfortable at times but necessary.  The only constant thing in the world is change, and if you don't change you don't grow.  When you grow as a person, your art (or passion) is broaden.  You see the world differently.  We must read more, explore new things, socialize and hear new perspectives.  It helps us to sprout mentally.  I am making a vow to embrace change and growth which will inevitably expand my art. 

3.  Stay true - Make sure you can look yourself in the mirror every day and be comfortable with the person you are staring at.  I will embody authenticity in everything I do, think and feel.  This strengthens my sense of self and clears my conscious.  "The key to failure is trying to please everybody." - Bill Cosby.  Please yourself!  This makes you happy and everyone around you happy as well. 

Have an awesome week everyone!  Enjoy the journey, let it go, embrace growth, stay true and keep the faith! 

- Samjah Iman

In Love with the Cocoa

I got a chance to check out the movie Barbershop: The Next Cut this past Saturday; I was pleased.  I enjoyed the cast, the message behind the film, and I especially enjoyed the barbershop talk.  The discussions in this movie were real, unfiltered and essential.  They were about men, women, politics, race, social media and a whole other slew of things that peaked my interest.  However, there was one particular discussion, touched on briefly by the cast, that stuck out to me - black women, their weave shenanigans and black men's love for women who resemble Kim Kardashian.  One sister in the shop raised a good point and made a few comments pointing out that some of our men don't appreciate our natural attributes.  The discussion then turned to actress/model Lupita Nyong'o, her hair and how most men wouldn't want their woman rocking that hair style because it doesn't represent the typical standard of beauty in America.  Some of the men disagreed and implied that they could appreciate a woman with Lupita's characteristics.  This made me think.  Do some of our men suddenly have a strong affinity for the cocoa and our kinky locks? Are they finally waking up?  This discussion reminded me of an article I wrote a couple years ago.  See an excerpt below.

According to social media, quite a few men are in love with Lupita's looks.  Coming from SOME men, I find this hard to believe because we live in a society where her attributes (dark skin and a short natural hair-do) are not the criteria for beauty.  Most of our men are suckers for long hair and light skin.  I'm not blaming the brothers for their inflexible interests because we all have been socially constructed by music, television, social media, and some magazines to believe that lighter skin and long hair equate beauty.  As kids, the media shaped our views of beauty and had us believing that long flowing hair and slightly tanned skin were the things to like.  If you didn't have a parent reinforcing and praising other images of beauty like afros and coffee-colored skin, you were not conditioned to appreciate the type of beauty Lupita brings to the table.  

There is an abundance of Lupitas working in Wal-Mart, pumping gas at the gas station, in the hood, riding the bus, etc.  Therefore, if men are really into Lupita and her features like they claim to be, then they would date someone who resembles her.       

I wrote the piece above because at the time I felt some of our brothers weren't keeping it real.  I knew of a few men personally who wouldn't look twice at most of the girls who possessed dark skin and kinky hair but claimed that they were Lupita's #1 fan probably because she was trending at the time.  Fast forward two years later, and a lot of people seem to be amazed by these African characteristics.  The world seems to be catching on and celebrating different hair types and all the shades of our people.  Is the appreciation for our culture real or are some people still on the pro-black bandwagon because it's popular now?  I truly believe that some of this new found love is due to having more brown skin women portrayed in the mainstream media.  These days commercials feature black women with natural hair and dark skin tones.  Seeing more images of ourselves constantly can influence our views in a positive way, and it gives other brown skin women the courage and confidence to celebrate their beauty proudly.

Nowadays, there are several blogs dedicated to just black women and natural hair and paraphernalia being created that celebrates our beauty and uniqueness.  Hell, now the hair stores even sell kinky weave and faux dreadlocks!  I am truly amazed by it all. 

Photo Credit: Instagram - @djeclazz. Retrieved April 17, 2017

Photo Credit: Instagram - @brandanjzachery. Retrieved April 17,2017

Ya'll know I need that swimsuit above, right?!! It comes from Bareswim.com, and it's available for pre-order now!

Photo Credit. Zazzle.com. Retrieved April 17, 2017. http://www.zazzle.com/natural+hair+coffee+mugs

I am loving the era that we are are currently in, and I pray it continues.  I am so glad that our little girls have women in the media like Lupita Nyong'o and others to make them feel beautiful and give them hope.  Black people come in all shades of brown, and we have many different hair textures; this is what makes us beautiful.  We are diversity at its finest!      

P.S. - Shout out to the women who don't need the media's permission to love themselves, and shout out to the men who have been down with the sisters before it was cool! 

Photo Credit: Etsy.com. Retrieved April 17, 2016. https://www.etsy.com/market/black_power

Thoughts?

- One chocolate girl - Samjah Iman