Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Another week, another month
An oldie but goodie is playing now. "Order My Steps" by GMWA Women of Worship. Lately I've been studying the Bible more than I've ever have. I strongly urge anybody to study Matthew 24. In that chapter, it clearly tells you what's going on in the world today and what's going to happen later. "Don't Be A Fool" by Elle Es is on now. Btw, Brianna if you're reading this, your mixtape is off the chain. Now back to what I was saying. The Bible talks about studying to show yourself approved. Just something to think about. For those who know and have studied Matthew Chapter 24, I just got one question, Are you ready?
"Every Time" by CeCe Winas is playing now. Speaking of wrestling, I watched the Mr. Perfect DVD, although it was on dailymotion.com. Besides that, I think it was a well made DVD. Of course I didn't see all the extras, but the main, I guess you can say, documentary, was good. The roughest part of the whole thing for me was when it got to the part where Curt Henning passed away. I can't imagine being a father burying a son. If I ever have a son, I know I wouldn't want to go through that, God willing. It's like what Denzel Washington said in the movie John Q when they were contemplating on pulling the plug on his son, "I'm not going to bury my son. My son's going to bury me." When I get the money, I'm definitely going to get the Mr. Perfect DVD. I think any fan of pro wrestling/sports entertainment should get it also.
"Seated At The Right Hand Of God" by Tye Tribbett and GA is playing now. So I haven't done a video and/or podcast in a long time. Anybody got something they would like me to talk about or do a video about? Hit me up. I'm fresh out of ideas to be honest with you. I see some of my old videos on youtube, I start to think, how in the world did I get 45 subscribers? It's mind boggling to me. The people on LiveVideo must be smart because I hardly get any views on there. I also only got 7 subscribers, yet I only get like 3 views per video. That's odd.
"Stretch Out Your Hand" by Ricky Dillard is playing now. Well I probably could think of more to write, but I don't want to. I'm glad you y'all read my blog. I know there's others out there but you happened to read mine. That's awesome. Be back next week God willing.
Be blessed,
Daniel aka Big d
Monday, September 22, 2008
Sorry it took so long
"Rain On Me" by Bryon Cage is playing now. Another good song. So most of you that are reading have seen the new pic that I've posted. It's my default MySpace (where this is originally being typed) and FaceBook. I'm surprised it didn't get any comments. I'm guessing it proves Proverbs 18:24a which says, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly." It the midst of looking for that verse, "I Honor You" by Bishop T.D. Jakes started playing.
I'm drawing a blank people. I literally can't think of anything else to write about. To the people reading on Live Video, let me come clean. You know those lurkers that never come in and chat? hehe, sorry! I'll try to do better the next time.
"You Can" by Dorinda Clark-Cole is playing now. Ah, now I got something. The track I'm listening to now is produced by J. Moss, who is Dorinda's cousin. J. Moss is an excellent producer. He can also sing, but he's an overrunner. What I mean by that is that he seems to think, the more he runs, the more love he gets from his audience. Example? Well I'm glad you asked. His song, "Praise On The Inside" is an awesome track. Yesterday in the morning, Sunday morning, I was watching Gospel Music Channel, and low and behold J. Moss came on with a live performance of "Praise On The Inside." I changed the channel within 30 seconds because the runs were so irritating. Now don't get me wrong. I love runs. The late Rev. James Moore was the king of them, but if you feel that your voice is not secure enough to sing without runs, then how in the world did you get a record deal? That's exactly why I'll never own a Rance Allen CD. FYI, if you don't know what I mean by runs or running in a song, it means...well i don't know the webster's definition.
In the midst of trying to find a definiton a song has played and a song is playing. The song that played was "On Time God" by Dottie Peoples. The song playing now is "Perfect Peace" by Sammy Young. Now "This Is The Day" by Fred Hammond is playing. Before I another song sneaks up on me, Dad just came back home from work and I got the new WWE Magazine. So, I'm going to get to reading that. Hope you enjoyed the blog. Hopefully I said something that made sense.
Be blessed,
Daniel
Friday, September 05, 2008
Regular bloggers need love to, dang it!
I'm currently listening to the Akitunde radio show. Well it really hasn't started yet, all I'm hearing is commercials, but either way. Ok, now the intro music is playing. Either way, last night we had a great time at choir rehearsal at the church. It was one of the better rehearsals I've been too in a while, no lie. Being at rehearsal however, I missed the start of the NFL season. The Giants played the Redskins, so I guess I really didn't miss much.
So the presidential stuff is going crazy, right? Now, I'm not saying vote for McCain or Obama because that's your call. But what's up with the hyprocritical stuff going on, you know? It's like the elections have turned into World Wrestling Entertainment. Much respect to the Daily Show and Colbert Report for pointing out some of the hypocracy. I'm sure there's some going on in Obama's campaign, not entirely sure about that, but with the McCain side....my God! Ever since McCain chose Palin as a VP, hell broke lose. Speaking of that, what's the deal with that? Palin? Governor of Alaska for what, two years, I believe. Hardly any experience, except "Executive." Foreign experience claims, because Alaska is close to Russia? Give me a break. I've been to Florida, so does that mean I got foreign experience because Florida is close to Cuba? Shut up! Anyway, all the news network need to watch for what they say because news flash reporters, the camera is on and recording. So when you say something then say the complete opposite, we're going to catch it. And another thing, what's up with the Republicans talking down on Obama for the stuff he's done for the community. Since when helping people get jobs and off the streets a bad thing? Think, people, think. Now I know politicans, thinking is not a skill you have, but try it, and see how it works.
Enough about politics, let's move on. Regular bloggers need love too, y'all. Now I love reading WWE's Matt Hardy's blog, and other celeberity blogs I can get too. It's cool to see what they're really thinking on certain topics. But what about us regular bloggers? Can't we get some views and comments too? You'd probably be surprise at the intellengence found in some of the blogs from us non famous people. I'm not condemning famous people's blogs, but don't forget about us.
Akintunde asked a question, do you feel ok about your kids, or kids in general, getting taught by homosexual teachers? Lord, this section is going to cause arguments, but ok. As most of you know, I believe homosexuality is a sin. Homosexuals, I have no problem with. People I have no problem with. I do have a problem with homosexuality itself. So with that being said...this is a hard question, because part of me is saying that if they have the education and have the knowledge of the particular subject then no I don't have a problem with homosexuals teaching kids, but on the other hand, if a kid goes home and talks about how womenly their male teacher is acting, and you're teaching the kid how to act masculine...then there's a contradiction there. What y'all think? Y'all opinion's might help me out a little bit of what I'm trying to say.
Thanks for reading y'all. Have a good week. Be on a look out for a new podcast. Always remember, being a Bible Scholar won't necessarily get you in to heaven. You have to be a Bible follower. Be blessed.
~Daniel aka Big d
Friday, August 29, 2008
New Podcast!!
If you don't know how to listen, check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hVClOCNQvs. :D
Monday, August 25, 2008
Going random because I can son!!
~Daniel
Monday, August 18, 2008
Giants do die, the bigger they are they harder they fall...
So this past Sunday night we had a youth service at the church, but this wasn't your traditional youth service. It was more of a one night revival. If you watched the link I posted earlier, then you got what the hold night was about. if you didn't watch the video, the preacher spoke of giants dying. He came from 1 Samuel where David killed Goliath. We all know the story of David and Goliath, if you don't, then you need to start going to Sunday School. Basically Goliath was a Giant, and David slayed him. Then he cut his head off to get a"head" in life. HA...ok seriously. Anyway, what David did to Goliath in the physical, we need to do to our struggles in the spiritual. Got me? So like I said, this past Sunday night was just awesome. It was a blessing to all who went. After the service was over, young people were still crying out to God and going strong.
Just got done watching Golden Child, to which I think it was completely underrated. It's one of my all time favorite movies, to be honest. Eddie Murphy, the star of the movie, did his thing. Plus it was back when he was at his comic best. Not to say that Eddie still isn't funny now because I'm one of the few people in the world that actually liked Meet Dave. And there will be judging on my movie choices. I don't believe in judging, unless I'm doing it.
I think there's a difference between a dad and a father. In the Bible, one of the 10 Commandments is to honor your mother and father, that your days may be long, right? But what about your dad? What if your dad has not been a father? Plus I don't think that commandment necessarily means just your mom and dad. I think it includes all the fatherly and motherly figures in your life. You feel me? Like your pastor should be a fatherly or motherly figure in your life. Now if your pastor is not like that, notice I said should be. But is my question legit? What if your dad has not been a father? Do you still honor him? I know you love him, but do you honor him?
Thanks for reading. This is probably the most Godly blog I've ever done in a while, but I don't consider that a bad thing. So show love, leave some comments. Always remember that you can be a Bible Scholar, but if you're not also a Bible Follower, you're not going to Heaven. Be blessed.
~Daniel
P.S. Please charge any spelling mistakes or grammer mistakes to my head and not my heart
Monday, August 11, 2008
I’m so glad so glad that He gave me...THE GIFT TO WRITE!!
So as we all know, we lost Bernie Mac and Issac Hayes. Bernie was one of the best comedians of all time. He definitely left his mark in the business. He will be missed. Issac Hayes was a funk legend. Known for the theme to Shaft. Also known as Chef from South Park. Let me say this about Hayes. He had to be one of the biggest hypocrites for leaving South Park as he did. He left because they did a show on Scientology? Are you kidding me? South Park is one of the most anti-religion, anti-values, anti-anything shows every put on TV. It just didn't make sense to me that's all. Another thing, I'm confused about. Most people believe that when they die, they go to Heaven or Hell. What do scientologist believe? Where do they supposedly go when they die? Science books? I'm just guessing because I don't know. It's crazy.
I've been drinking hot tea lately, is that weird? My sister said that hot tea has more caffine than coffee. That's strange because I just had two helpings, and I'm still tired as crap. What the barnicles?
So we got the Summer Olympics going on. Both basketball teams are dominatiing so far. Of course it's only been like one day, but anyway. Is anybody actually watching the Olympics? To be honest, I'm watching little by little. I watched that last little bit of the Women USA Basketball straight murder the Chinese. Not murder in the literal since, but you know, the Chinese lost by a lot of points. That sounds better.
To readers old and new, always remember that you can be a Bible Scholar, but if you're not a Bible Follower you're not going to Heaven. Thanks for reading friends. Subscribe where you can subscribe, and continue to support. Be blessed.
~Daniel aka Big d
Monday, July 28, 2008
Did you miss me? I bet the feeling’s mutual :)
First off, this is sort of like a hot of the presses type thing, but a few minutes ago I read an article saying that a woman was killed on her honeymoon in Antigua, which is a Carribean Island. Her husband was wounded. The real crazy thing is, that's the 10 murder in Antigua this year. So guess where I'm not going on vacation anytime soon? I don't mean to make a joke out of a serious situation, but 10 times in a little over have a year is nothing to play with. The couple was planning to go back home this coming Monday. They both were 31, so it wasn't like they were old. The devil is busy, people. We still got people acting like they got all the time in the world. I'm sure this couple didn't have getting robbed and shot as part of they're honeymoon. If there's ever time to get God in your heart, it's now. I learned this past week that it doesn't take emotion to get saved. All you got to do is believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that you believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sins. I didn't intend to put that on this, but it's really time to stop playing around with life and start getting serious.
I'm really shocked that my video, Why are men so stupid?, has not got a ton of views and comments. I'd figure that would be a hot topic. I guess it's taking longer than I thought. If you haven't seen it yet, get at me and I'll send you a link. Tell your friends about it too because I really want to read and see more opinions on that subject.
As I hinted earlier, I was at the Triad Convention last week, and it was off the meat racker-zolie!! I'm not lying. Every aspect of the convention was awesome. The messages were on point. The sessions were on point. It was just amazing. The main thing I'm going to remember about the convention is that Wensday night. There was a storm happening outside that night, and the power of the building went out. The only lights on was the flash lights and the emergency lights. Anyway the choir got up. We sang out hearts out. You talking about old school hand clapping foot stomping church. What? I mean we did the dang thing, and the annointing was in that place so strong. If there was a time for the rapture to happen, that would've been an awesome time. I'd have a hard time beliving that a person did not feel the annointing in that place. I already can't wait for next year's.
For those of you that are faithfully reading my story, "How Did That Happen?", I just want to let you know that I'm working on it, and will have new stuff posted soon I promise. Sorry for the hiatus on that as well.
Is anybody else like me tired of hearing about Bret Farve? Right now, I could really careless if he comes back or not. The person I really feel for is Aaron Rodgers. He came in to this season thinking that he was going to be the starting quaterback, and now leave it to Mr. Farve to start up some drama. If you're going to retire, retire. I don't care how much you still want to play. Make up your dang mind, and stand by your decision. I can't stand when people change their mind's at the last minute, messing up the plans that were set.
I thank y'all for reading. I'll try not to be so long between the blogs next time around. Be sure to leave a comment at least telling me you read it, and/or telling me what you thought of what I talked about. Always remember, you can be a Bible Scholar all you want to, but if you're not a Bible Follower, you're not going up yonder. Be blessed.
~Daniel aka Big Dusty
Monday, July 07, 2008
Friday, July 04, 2008
I know you can read, but can you type?
I'd like to begin by thanking Gary and peaceofmind for commenting my blog last week. I greatly appreciate it. To the rest of y'all...what?!?! I get about 25 views on the Space a week, I know that, but come on. I know you can read, but can you prove that you can type by giving a brother some feedback? Goodness. I wanted to go past over promoting, but it looks like I got to go back to over promoting. Y'all going to be sick of me this week. You brought it on yourselves. As Toby Mac says, "Let's get this party started!!"
So Eddie Murphy is doing Beverily Hills Cop 4. Earlier in the process it was rumored that the movie was going to be PG-13, which burnt me up to no end. I'm sorry, you can't have a character like Axel Foely in a PG-13 setting. It's just not going to work. Some days ago, I saw that the movie is in fact going to be rated R. Thank the Lord! Can you imagine a Beverily Hills Cop movie without the F-bomb being dropped? That's like hearing a State of the Union address and not hearing a lie.
The new Will Smith movie, Hancock, is already getting panned by reviewers. Most saying something like, "Will smith can't save Hancock." I even saw "$150 million dollar disaster." I haven't seen the movie yet, but I hope to see it while it's still in theaters. Until then, I'll just say that it would be a shame that Mister 4th of July couldn't deliever. For his sake I hope he did.
Speaking of...I hope you all had or are having a great 4th of July weekend. For me, the food was good. My dad may have his flaws, but he can grill. His ribs are insane. Insanicles as my good friend Cass would say. Also we had chicken, and sausages. Not the breakfast sausage. The kind you put on a hot dog bun with some mustard. Also had baked beans. That's all I ate, but the rest of the fam also had corn on the cob and potato salad. Didn't see any fireworks but I heard some go off. Actually I saw fireworks this past Monday, when the home town baseball team hit a homerun. Don't get excited, they lost 6-3. Yeah they suck. They must be the Miami Heat of minor leauge baseball.
As always, I thank you for checking out my blog. I know there's other blogs you could've read, but you decided to read mine and I appreciate it. Now put those typing fingers to work and show some love. That would be great. Be blessed.
~Daniel aka Big Dusty
Thursday, July 03, 2008
7/03/08 Podcast
Podcast page: http://soundclick.com/share?songid=6687836
Friday, June 27, 2008
SHUT UP BEFORE Y’ALL JINX IT!!
To the Obama supporters: SHUT UP BEFORE Y'ALL JINX IT!! Look, I want Obama to win just like everybody on BET does, but good Lord, shut your mouth. Lets go back about, I don't know, 4 years ago, when it seemed like everybody in America wanted Bush out of office. What did "we" do? Put Bush back in for another 4 years. So shut up, before McCain gets in office. 4 years ago, Puff Daddy had the Vote or Die campaign going and what happened? I think we all know. Now this jinx is saying and I quote "Obama or Die!" Diddy, shut up before you jinx it for all of us. Gahly. Yes we want Obama to win, but let him win for the right reasons, not just because he's black. Diddy, here's what you do, say "McCain or Die," that way everybody will vote for Obama. Nobody like you no more, Diddy, get over it.
Now for my usually scheduled randomness. Where's the love people? Where is the love? Lack of pic comments, lack of comments in general. It's almost like...who's this mixed boy? Remember me? Big Dusty? The one with the nice smile and hair, which will be gone next summer. Speaking of which, we got about a year to come up with another nickname for yours truly because with the hair, goes Big Dusty. I'm thinking of just being Daniel, but I want to give my people a chance to give me a new nickname anyway. I mean I got the name Dusty by 2 white boys, and I ran with it. Who knows what will happen? Big Dusty only has about a year left y'all. Will he make a comeback after that, God only knows.
Back to jinxing, we got WWE's Night Of Champions coming this Sunday, June 29, 2008. One of the matches being John Morrison and The Miz vs Hornswoggle and Finlay. Everybody wants Hornswoggle and Finlay to win. Yay!! Really? Again let's go back some months ago. Who was the the last Crusierwieight champion in the history of the WWE. Oh yeah, Hornswoggle. He got the title, then they dropped it. So do we as wrestling fans, really want Hornswoggle to win another title? Just a thought. As Jeff Meacham says, "It's just my opinion."
Speaking of opinions, if you reading this and you're into Astrology and you believe that horoscope mess...shut up. You're not going to recruit me. You people are more annoying than BET programming. I mean all this stuff talking like "Well in the past life you can see that..." What? You knew what I was doing when I was just in my dad? I hope some people got that one, anyway...but seriously, get a grip and stop annoying the people.
So now I'd like to thank everyone for reading the blog. I know that there's other blogs you could've read, but you decided to read mine and I greatly appreciate it. Be free to leave a comment leaving your opinion on what I talked about and let's start a discussion. Remember to not conform to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of YOUR mind.
God bless...
Daniel aka Big Dusty
Friday, June 20, 2008
Did you get the lincense number?
The Boston Celtics are the NBA Champs. Much respect to Kevin Garnett, but I just got one thing about his speech at the end of the game. Gave love to Chi-town, and Minnisota. Where's the love for South Carolina, Kevin? Huh? Your home state? I know you went to Chi-Town to finish high school and then you got drafted, but before that you went to Mauldin High School. If my reading is correct you were born in Maudlin. Show some love for your home state. That's all I'm saying. Other than that, much respect to KG and the Celtics. I had the Lakers in 6 I admit, but who knew? But I am making a pick for next year, for my Miami Heat. They will make the playoffs. YES I SAID IT! It's the Eastern Conference, I can't be wrong with this pick.
Since there's only one person that I know of that's going to comment this, got to give respect to Alan. Thanks for the comment in advance. Comments aren't against the law people. My videos get lack luster comments, my podcast get lack luster comments...I mean, am I lack luster? That's rhetorical don't answer that. Y'all can type pointless bulletins and ims to your "friends" but y'all can't leave one little comment on a blog you read. What the crapacle? I digress.
I'm tired, so I'm going to end this now. Once again thanks for reading. I know there's other blogs that you could've read, but you chose to read mine and I appreciate it. Now COMMENT....if you want to, you know, I'm not trying to force anybody. That's like going in a Live Video chat room as a guest and not having the guts to sign in and say hi. Oh...my bad. Bye y'all.
~Daniel
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
uh OH, the mouth from the south is back...
We got the NBA Finals going strong. By this point, Celtics are up 2-1 in the series. I picked the Lakers in 6, but Boston is kicking crazy butt right now. I don't know. I know my good friend Alan is happy with the way the series is going by this point.
I'm countin down to the point where mom's gets sick of me and kicks me out the house. I got a feeling it's only a matter of time.
We got Vince McMahon, who gave 1 million dollars this past Monday. What do I think of it? I think it's cool. He's doing it again next week. I'm sure hoping I get a cut so I can get my student loans out the way, know what I mean? Imagine getting $200,000. After the tithes and offering for the church, you still got plenty to spend for yourself. I mean Vince is making people's dreams come true. It was funny when a person only won 2 dollars. It was straight up hilarious. But the person did get a free trip to New York so I bet she wasn't sad for long. Much respect to the WWE and Vince McMahon for this he's doing. To use to words of Edge and Christian from about 10 years ago, "It totally reaks of awesomeness!"
Ok, y'all I need your questions. I'm overdue for a video and I have no idea of what to do. I had an idea, and I still might do it, but I need some questions just incase it takes me too long to do that idea.
My story, How Did That Happen, is still doing well on the KJ Board for anybody that's wondering. This person with the username "peaceofmind" continues to show love and it's greatly appreciated.
Ok, well I'm off to do something. I don't know. It's 2:20 in the morning right now, and I'm not really tired. I might go into a live chat room as a guest just to be noisy. Or might put in a DVD. The chose is mine. Thanks for reading, if you read this far. Leave a comment, if you please, and tell me what you thought of it. Your likes and dislikes. Or if there's a topic you want me to write about. Don't forget to submit your questions for a video anyway you can, ok?
God bless,
Daniel aka Big d
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
...bring out the pork ribs. I’m back!
What's going on in my life? Same old stuff different day. Well that was short and sweet.
Ladies and Gentlemen, an old rivary has resurfaced. Yes that's right, we're talking about the Celtics and Lakers. This Thursday the NBA finals starts. What a way to end the season by paying tribute to the old school. Through out the playoffs I was hoping this would happen. Now we got Kevin "Don't call me African" Garnett vs Kobe "I pass the ball now, you happy?" Bryant. I think it's going to be a great series. As much as I want KG to get his first ring, my gut is saying that the Lakers got it in 6. I could be wrong, I've been wrong before. Alisha shut up, if you're reading.
Is it just me, or has the elections gone completely out of control? I mean Obama's now former church is full with numnuts, and I mean that in the most Christian way, don't get me wrong. Now do I think it was wrong for Obama to leave? No I don't, but I think it's too little way too late. Maybe if he would've done it a while back, it would've been a sorta good thing for his campaign. If he would've left while Rev. Wright was on his rampage, the church might not even be part of his campaign now. We don't know that for sure, but it's something to think about. Does Obama leaving his church really help things for him? Time will tell. Do I really need to talk about Hiliary "I just want my old room back" Clinton? Nope.
My story, "How Did That Happen?" is getting rave reviews on the KJ-52 messageboard. People are really enjoying it. If you want to see what all the talk is about, just join http://www.kj52.com/smf and go to the Open Mic section. It's on the first page. As a matter of fact, I'm going to work on it as soon as I post this.
So thanks for reading. I apologize if it wasn't the best I've ever done. To the new people once again, thanks for checking my blog. I know there's other blogs you could have checked, but you decided to check mine. I appreciate it. Peace y'all.
~Daniel
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
How Did That Happen? Chapter 3
“I’m good. T.O.M. came by for a visit.”
“Tom? Who is…oh, I got it. Wait, why you telling me? I’m all the way over here.”
“Just incase I happen to flip out for no apparent reason, you know?”
“Yep. My sister would always warn me up front whenever Tom came around. That always let me known that I had to be careful of what I said and do.”
After I talked with her, I tried to go back to sleep, but then I got a text message saying that I was invited to a dinner party and I had 15 minutes to get ready. Welcome to the high life Brian, I thought to myself. I went to the refrigerator and grabbed an energy drink. I then hopped in the shower, grabbed my best suit, and made sure m hair looked decent enough. Being from the south, I had the mentality that as long as my hair looked decent enough, I was ok.
I got picked up by the person who was throwing the party, who happened to be one of the judges of the competition. We pulled up to his house. I saw the producer that got me the job along with other people working on the show. I never was to type to go party or anything like that so this was a new thing for me. I got my plate of hors-d’oeuvres and stood along to the side to myself. As I was eating, I looked around at people laughing and smiling. I took a sip of my water and noticed that Kevin, the producer that hired me, was motioning for me to come to him.
I walked over to where he was and he introduced me to a couple of people that were there. Most of the people were agents, music and movie producers, movie directors, etc. Then I met Lisa Anderson. She was an up and coming artist that was expected to go huge. When she walked over and introduced herself, I was getting another helping of food.
“Mr. Howard is it?”
“Yes ma’am,” I said turning around.
“I hear you’re the vocal trainer on the show.”
“Yes ma’am I am.”
“Well, I’m Lisa, Lisa Anderson. It’s nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you too,” I said extending my hand. “You’re the new artist everybody’s talking about, right?”
“Yeah, that’s me. How you liking LA? It’s different from South Carolina, huh?”
“Definitely, but I’m slowly getting used to how things go here.”
“Great. Well I’m going to go mingle with more people, be free to call me sometime. Here’s my card,” She said handing me her card.
I took the card and nodded my head. The rest of the night went pretty smooth. Some of the people were stuck up. They had the fakest laughs I’ve ever heard in my life. The kind of laughs you see on TV shows when the characters try to act rich. That made me laugh a little for real, and when the stuck up people looked at me, I stopped and acted like I was mingling. I got a ride home from Kevin.
I only got about 4 hours of sleep before I had to get up to get ready for the studio again. That day began with listening to the playback sessions I did with the contestants the day before. Then the contestants came in and were told that they had to sing a song as a group to open up the first show, and I was the director. I have background in directing. I was the main director of my church’s choir before I got this job. So, I split the contestants into three different sections: tenor, alto, and soprano.
I’ve never dealt with such hard headed people in my life. I’d teach the parts, and then the “know-it-alls” did their own thing and messed up the whole sound causing the day to drag on and on. Some people kept complaining and complaining, while others were trying to one up one another. It got to the point where I almost lost it. I opened my mouth to rant on all of them, but Cindy beat me to it.
“Everybody shut up! We should be lucky we got this far. I worked hard to get here, and I’m not going to let any of you ruin this experience. It’s 9:00 at night, so I don’t care if you guys hate each other, but let’s at least work together to get this done so we can go home and get some sleep.”
“Yeah!” I said pointing at them, acting like I was going to say that in the first place.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
How Did This Happen? Chapter 2
The time came where I had to go. I had my parents take me to the airport. I’ve never been on an airplane, yet ride on first class, so I was completely nervous. I figured I’d buy some new clothes and stuff with my first pay check so I only brought a couple of weeks worth of clothes, with a couple of my best suits, and some other stuff that was in compliance with what I could and could not bring on the plane. I slept the whole time so I can’t really explain what the plane ride was like. I remember we made a couple of stops before we actually got to Los Angles though.
I got off the plane and met the producer at the baggage claim. After we gathered my bags we went out to the limo waiting outside. We made our way to the rented pent house that I was going to stay at during the competition. The first month was already paid so I could have enough time to save up from the pay checks to pay for the rest of the competition. I got out the limo and walked into the building. Then went up to the penthouse as soon as the door opened, my jaw dropped.
This place was bigger than 3 times my room back in South Carolina. It already had furniture and a TV in it just waiting to be used. I had to slap myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming. I got my camera out and took a picture so it would last longer. The producer told me that I had the rest of the day to just enjoy my place, and that the next day he’ll take me to the studio where I was going to be. I called my parents to tell them I made it safely. After that I called Heather and she was happy I made it. She then asked me something that really caught me off guard. Good thing I was sitting down during the conversation.
“Brian, can I ask you a question honestly? If you don’t want to answer it because it’s too personal, I understand.”
“No, Heather, go ahead. Ask me anything.”
“Well I was reading in the Bible where it says, ‘whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart,’ and um, I was just wondering…”
“Yeah. Can’t really get mad, I said ask anything right? It’s like this Heather, I’ve always thought you were an angel, and I’m going to admit, that I had an issue with sex without physically having it if you know what I mean. But I’ve since repented and moved on, but when I look at you now I see the beauty within and out. For that I apologize for my thoughts.”
There was a silence then Heather came back on the phone.
“I forgive you, Brian. Thank you for being honest.”
“Don’t mention it. Just be ready when I find some break time and I come to visit.”
“I will. Well I got to get back to baby-sitting. Love you.”
“Love you, too.”
The first thought that came to my mind was if this girl is not the one, then she better be an imaginary friend or something because I didn’t want my business out in the street.
The next day I woke up the sound of my cell phone ringing. It was the producer making sure I was up and getting ready for the day ahead. After I took a shower and got dressed, I went to the lobby and waited. As I was getting my mp3 player out, I found a picture of my parents and dog, Ginger. I remembered how sad Ginger looked after I left the house. My mom’s going to be staying up by herself now with nobody to talk to besides the dog because Dad goes to bed early every night. If anything made me feel bad for leaving home, that’s it.
The producer came by in his hummer and then we headed down to the studio. What my job was going to be, at least for the first couple of days, to listen to the songs they were going to perform and try to help with the mistakes I catch up on. The first contestant, Stephen, came in looking cocky and really felt like he had that competition locked. I saw right through it. As he sang the song, he did so many runs, I barely understood the lyrics.
“Whoa! Hold it,” I said interrupting him as he continued to go and go. “Look, Steve...”
“Stephen.”
“Stephen, I’m glad you know how to run. Heck I wish I could run myself, but the judges need to understand what you’re singing. All that running makes it hard to understand what you’re saying if you saying anything at all. Know what I’m saying?”
“My chorus teacher told me that all the time, but I never listen because well, I know I can sing. And I don’t need no bootleg teacher, or no second-rate average Joe from the streets to tell me how to do what I do. Peace I’m out of here.”
I knew right there and then that I was going to have a long day. Later on I met the eighth contestant, Cindy. She was a very sweet girl. She seemed to have a good head on her shoulders. When she started singing, it sounded so smooth and jazzy. I really didn’t have to say anything to her, other than the fact that she needs to open her mouth more when she sings so it doesn’t come out sounding like a mumble.
The rest of the day had its up and downs. I had to deal with a lot of attitude, and on the other side, I had dealt with some really nice people. It was enough to drive a person to suicide. During my lunch break, Mom called me and said that the Student Loans people are looking for their money, over 5000 dollars. I had to call them myself and told them that I needed a few more weeks. I told them what was going on, and even though I was way overdue with payments, they let me have just enough time to get my pay-checks so I can pay them off. I couldn’t wait to get that burden off my back.
So after my day was over, I met with the judges and producers. I gave them my take on the singers and their ability. I caught a taxi back to the penthouse and my face hit the sofa. I got a good minute and a half worth of sleeping, then I got a call from Heather.
“Hey Brian, how’d your first day go?”
“I am wore the heck out, baby. I’m willing to bet that most of these contestants are on some type of drugs, and whatever that drug may be, I don’t want any part of it.”
“I understand,” Heather said laughing a little.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Hide the Super Christians here comes some realness
Before I get started, I just want to let the devil know that he will not win. The rest of the Upstate District Conference will be blessed and life changing services. I believe that with all my heart. My mom has some back problems, but God. My pastor and a bunch of the members of the church has the flu, but God. All these problems, let's me know that God is up to something. I can't wait for tonight and tomorrow night at church. Just wanted to get that off my chest.
As many of you know, writing and music are two passions of mine, and since I haven't played the drums is forever, I guess I need to work on my writing. Which I am. Check this new thing I'm working on called How Did This Happen? I hope you enjoy it. After I finish this, I might work on it some more.
A couple of days ago, I watched this video done by a guy that I have the upmost respect for, Marchello Currence. The video was called Google Hiliary Clinton's views on: gay marriage and abortion. As you can probably tell, through out this video he talked about Clinton's stand on gay marriage and abortion. He did the some thing for Obama in another video. At the end of the video he said that we shouldn't vote for either Clinton or Obama. So we should all vote for McCain? I mean he has the Republican nomination in the palm of his hand, am I right? Well here's my thing. I said on eariler blogs that I'm for Obama. Is it because we have the same morals? No. I think he's the best person for the new direction the US has to go in. I know we as Christians tend to vote for the person that we think has the same morals as we do, but sometimes we never hear about their politics. Yes I do hate politics, but we got to face the fact that it's not about morals any more. It's about politics. I know that morals are important and I respect that, but I also think that if we vote in a person that has the same morals, that it's highly possible that he's the worst choice for the country's economy because we never did hear about his/her politics. Get what I'm saying? To me you got to let me know more than the face that you're a former pastor, or you spent time in jail. What do you want, a cookie?
Well it's almost noon. I'm going to make my lunch. Be blessed my friends.
~Daniel
Friday, February 15, 2008
How did this happen? Chapter 1
I was just a freeloader. I graduated High School in 2005 and I went to college for a couple of semesters, but didn't find school worth it, so I dropped. Would sometimes go week after week without taking a shower because I didn't have any where to go. Went to church Sunday after Sunday and it was the same thing, after service would go to the van or car depends on what had the most gas, and listen to my mp3 player. All the other musicans talked to each other, shook hands, and all that. I'd just sit in the car and sing aloud. Had a little bit of a stuttering problem so I was scared to open up and talk sometimes. I was 20 years old and stayed in the youth class because I felt like I wasn't mature enough to go in the adult class for Sunday School. Then during the week, would just stay home and watch and/or listen to sports talk radio via the internet. Deep down inside I knew that I was going to arise from my ashes, but my head didn't ever want to believe it.
Growing up in the Bible belt, I always believed in God. My faith was something I never took for granted. Of course I wasn't ever the perfect Christian, but I always asked God for forgiveness of anything I did wrong.
Mentioned before that I was a musician. I play the drums. I was always interested in the drums, ever since I was little. That's how I learned how to play as a matter of fact, I remembered what I saw, and mimicked it. After a few Sundays of getting in trouble after church for playing to loud, and messing up all the time, I got polished enough to become the main drummer at the church I was going to at the time.
So anyway, I was doing the usual and just sitting on the couch messing around on my dad's lap top. I saw the one of my old friends was on and sent her message. I went to the kitchen and came back and she had sent a message back saying, "I'm going to an audition for a show, and it's happening down in your area. Want to meet up there?" I thought nothing of it, and I said that I'd be glad to. Some weeks later, I met her down where the auditions were happening. Turns out she was auditioning for a spot in in this national singing contest. This was my first time ever seeing her in person. I've only seen pictures. So when we met, my first reaction was that I want to go out with this girl.
Before her turn came up, Heather started practing her vocals. She asked me for my help, and I did my best to make sure she stayed in tune. I kept telling her not to make the mistake by singing out her throat, and that singing from her belly is the way to go. So as she went in her to her audtion, I was sitting in a room listening to my mp3 player singing softly along with the songs. I didn't know that a major producer was sitting beside me. Heather came out audition crying a little because she didn't make the cut. I gave her a hug and started leading her out. Before I got out the door, the producer stopped me.
"Young man. Young man! Stop for a second, I want to talk to you."
I turned around and looked. Heather was star struck because she knew this guy was. I had no idea.
"Sir?"
"Are you in this audition?"
"N-n-n, ahem, n-n-no sir I was just here with a friend."
"Well, I'm one of the guest producers on the show. Will you do me a favor and sing a little something for me?"
I looked around at all the faces that was being nosey and I shook my head.
"Ok. How 'bout this, ok? Put it on your favorite song on that mp3 player of yours, close your eyes, and act like you're home alone singing to yourself."
"I can try."
I put it on my favorite song and closed my eyes. Tears swelling up because I was scared, I started singing along. I opened my eyes after the chorus and got a round of applaudse. The producer then took me into the room with the judges. Heather stayed in the waiting room waiting.
"Excuse me, I know y'all in the middle of a audition, but I got an impromptu person for you right here," the producer said to the judges. "I never got your name son."
"B-b-b-rian Howard."
"Well Mr. Howard, if I could automatically put you on the show, I would, but sadly we got rules to follow. So what I'm going to do, I'm going to make you my assistant. With that, you will be the vocal trainer for the contestants for me. Are you willing to do that?"
My mom wouldn't have minded if I got paid picking up trash on the streets. She just wanted me to have a job doing something. So when she found out about job oppotunity, she told me to jump on it. I took the job. The pay was better than both of the jobs I got let go from combined. Since the actual show didn't start for a couple of more weeks, I had time to say goodbye to my friends and family.
After the audition stuff, Heather and I went out to lunch to celebrate my new job. During our conversation, she grew more and more attractive to me. So out the blue while we were eating I said something I'd thought would never ever come out my mouth.
"You know Heather, before we met, I always thought you were pretty. Now after meeting you, I think you're beautiful."
She looked a little surprised, and I looked down and continued eating.
"No need to be ashamed Brian. Brian, look at me. I love you."
I almost choked. This was to much for me to handle. Just got a job of the lifetime, then a beautiful girl said she loved me. After lunch, I took her back to her hotel. Before she got out the car, she invited me up. I quickly got reminded of that story in the Bible where Potiphar's wife didn't suceed in suducing Joseph. Then I remembered what I read in a study Bible where it said, "Remember that sexual sin is not just between two consenting adults. It is an act of disobedience to God."
"I'm sorry, I can't." I said.
"I understand. Well, I guess I'll see you when I see you then. My plane is leaving in the morning. Good luck on your new job. Just so you know, I wasn't going to try anything. I'm a Christian too, Brian." Heather winked as she got out the car.
"Heather!" I called after her. She turned around.
"Maybe when I get some free time, I can come visit you and we can hang out."
She kissed my cheek and walked off.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
One Night Can Turn Your Life Into Hell Chapter 2
“So Miss Jada, what brings you here this morning?”
“Well I was just wondering what it was you actually do, Riggs.”
Riggs started to explain what he did, and as he was explaining, he noticed that Jada wasn’t necessarily there to listen to him ramble. She wanted something else.
“Um, Jada? You’re not really here to know what I do, are you?”
She hesitated and then shook her head. Riggs took a deep breath.
“You know, maybe in a couple of days we can go out for dinner. Will that be cool?”
“Yea. Well I got to go see my dad. He was sleeping when I left. I guess I’ll see you in a couple of days then. Here’s my address and phone number to reach me.”
They shook hands and Jada left. Riggs hadn’t been on a date for about 3 years, so he called in his assistant, Carter for advice.
“Ok the first question is how much money you got?” Carter asked the person who owns the company.
“Never mind,” Carter continued. “Um, well if you’re going to take her out to dinner, go to a place that’s not as cheap as fast-food and not as expensive as a formal restaurant, know what I mean? Don’t want to over/under do it. Keep it just…”
“Simple?” Riggs jumped in.
“Moderate.”