Moment of Truth

There comes a time when you realize that your moment of truth is near. When all signs lead to the road in which you've visioned yourself going down for years. The repetition of our never-changing everyday life becomes unbearable and our yearning for change grows by the day. In this very moment, you know the transformation of your dreams into reality is inevitable. You know the weight of your worries and uncertainty are outweighed by your insatiable desire to do better and strive for your best...

This is your moment of truth.

 In this moment, you know that great rewards are never attained without great risk. In this moment, you finally admit that you are capable of everything you've dreamt in the past. In this moment, your life has added meaning, and in this moment, you live like never before. This moment is yours forevermore.

Seize that moment; for when it is lost, it is near impossible to seize again.

This is only what I've heard, but I intend to never see for myself. The time to make history is never more fitting than now.

This moment of truth is yours.

Our Most Important Investment

When it comes to what we as a nation decide to fund and invest in, we've unfortunately overlooked our most important national investment: Our Education. I argue that more than highways, sidewalks, police departments and military spending, our investment in our students and their educations must be not the first, but the last thing to be cut in government budgets. It is true that throwing money at schools does not always result in better test scores and higher graduation rates, but what remains true is that education is what gives our economy it's fuel and will continue to be that fuel so long as we are competing with countries like China, India, Brazil and other emerging economies. We must not be so fast to cut education funding, considering it's long term ramifications on our economy, our infrastructure and every other major facet of our American society. Too often our debates on education spending and education reform becomes mired and backlogged by politics and a stubborn refusal to meet in the middle on a number of issues that involve education such as funding, taxes, the NEA, charter schools, test scores, passing/failing schools, curriculum and tenure. I do not believe we can make any improvements on our education system without first collectively realizing that all sides must meet in the middle and come together for the sake of our generation's future. We cannot say we mean effective education reform without first opening ourselves to the idea that perhaps the opposing side might actually have a handful of great ideas. Nelson Mandela once said "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." I Agree. Do you? - David.

A Look at America and Our Hurtful Truth

When I first watched this video, I couldn't help but think about the many points brought up and how as a nation we became what we've become. While provocative and seemingly anti-patriotic for some, it raises eyebrows and serves as a reminder on the many areas of society in which we must do better. For the better and for the worse, it's important to keep our truths true and our priorities in order. Take a watch and tell me, what do you think?

Complacency: Our Worst Enemy

Often in life there are difficulties in really understanding who we are, what we want to become and where in life we want to be. We get so distracted by the present, we forget about looking towards the future in a clear and concise way. I know that sometimes I'm so bogged down with what I've got going on now, my future becomes foggy and I forget everything I wanted to do. I often looked at the clock and wondered where the time was going, when really I should've looked at my life and wondered where that was going.

I can't do that anymore.

We've all got aspirations and dreams we want to achieve and to put them on the back-burner for the sake of focusing on our present situation isn't always the right approach. In fact, it's usually this very habit that keeps our aspirations from taking place. We worry about things like risk and lack of security, when our biggest concern should be complacency.

Life shouldn't be a routine. Life should be an endless fulfillment of dreams we've dreamt for years on end. It does not matter whether our dreams are to travel, have a big family, become wealthy or land a prestigious job; as long as those dreams become fulfilled. If there's one thing life taught me, it's that hard work and persistence are the recipe for success.

To Never Become Complacent Again,
- David

Los Angeles: My New Home.

This is Home now.

Moving to Los Angeles isn't a dream anymore; it's reality. It's been reality for close to a month now and I couldn't be happier. The city offers me new sights to see and different people to meet. My apartment building is located walking distance from downtown L.A. and I get to see a skyline view of the city everyday from my apartment. 

Working in downtown L.A. is interesting; it gives me that big city feel I've always wanted to work and live in, as well as exposes me to different groups of people from different walks of life. Working close to the Staples Center, the University of Southern California and countless major hotels, Downtown Los Angeles keeps me interested and curious on what else there is to see and experience. 

The weather's unbeatable and the people, while sometimes pretentious, are generally laid back and friendly. I get the feeling people just want to live out here and enjoy life and the experiences in it. There are parks, bars, clubs, lounges, restaurants, beaches and museums that anyone is welcome to go to and enjoy for themselves. I wish I had more time to immerse myself in all that, but I knew for a while now that work comes first and I've got to get on my feet before I can live the lifestyle I want. Until then, I've got to enjoy my location in the city and make the best of networking and learning as much from this city as I can. 

There's a lot to learn in this city. There's even more to experience...

It IS Los Angeles, of course. 

Blogging Again, 

David.

The 2012 Elections and What To Expect.

Believe it or not, It's been almost 4 years since the election between Senators John McCain and Barack Obama. Much has taken place upon Obama's arrival to the White House; Some Good, Some Bad. A number of controversial issues have come up since November of 2008 and this administration, while currently up in poll numbers when polled against the current Republican candidates, has a very difficult road ahead of itself if it hopes to earn another 4 years from the American public. Whoever the Republican candidate may be, it seems as though the issues that the 2012 election will revolve around will remain the same: The economy, 'Obamacare', energy costs and entitlement programs. In all likelihood, Obama will not match both the fundraising and enthusiasm he had in 2008 when he ran on the 'change' and 'hope' themes. It is evident a large number of independent voters have become disenfranchised with Obama and even some of his most ardent liberal supporters are apprehensive about putting in all the effort for his campaign over again. Obama has his strengths and weaknesses coming into the 2012 elections, as does his eventual Republican opponent. This being said..

What are your predictions out there in the blogosphere?

Forever Discussing Politics,
David.

"I Still Have A Soul"

Please Donate Today

Martin Luther King Jr. once said "Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love. "

In the bible, Proverbs 22:9 states "He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor."

Buddha once said "Have compassion for all beings, rich and poor alike; each has their suffering. Some suffer too much, others too little."

Gandhi once stated "Poverty is the worst form of violence."

The great Greek poet Aesop once said "No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted."

And Finally, Mother Teresa once said "At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done."

We will be judged by 'I was hungry and you gave me to eat, I was naked and you clothed me, I was homeless and you took me in.'

Hungry not only for bread -- but hungry for love. Naked not only for clothing -- but naked for human dignity and respect. Homeless not only for want of a room of bricks -- but homeless because of rejection." 

I've realized these past months that all too often, people become preoccupied with their own sense of identity and uplifting, all while taking for granted the uplifting of others less fortunate. I, myself, have been guilty of this and realize now that as a person and as a Christian, It's time I carry out on engaging in deeds that make me a Christian, an American, and a Man. 

 We all have our obligations to carry out; regardless of faith, citizenship or affiliation. Before all else, we are all HUMAN. Please, I ask you all to please contribute whatever little you may have to the needy. Let us evaluate who we are and carry out our inherent tasks as people. Thank you.  

It's Time, 

David.

"With Your Faith"

Have a little faith in me, you need to know my dreams.

Despite the slow timing, it's better than it seems.

I've thought my life through, beside me, you can stand.

If only you promise I'll have your faith, your full faith in me as a man.

I need you to believe in me, when the rest of the world won't..

.. and when all else has doubted me, promise me you don't.

You see, I'm a man of aspirations, my dreams are of the day;

and I need your full faith in me to not let me sleep my dreams away.

I need to know you're there, with nothing there to hide.

Not to follow, nor to lead, but as my woman, be beside.

I need the up's to keep me afloat, the down's to keep me humble.

I need you to be my rock when the rest of the world crumbles.

When I'm hurting, I need you to notice, cause as a man, I can't show it.

For reasons I can't express, I still need you there to know it.

Your full faith as my woman, and when it comes to the heart of it;

I don't ask to be your world, I just ask to be a part of it.

I come with strengths, I come with flaws; I am merely just a man.

But with your faith, I can take on the world.. With Your Faith, I Can Stand.

"I Dream"

Experience has taught me much, the good and bad I've seen.

To make the good, better and the bad, good; for these reasons alone, I Dream.

I dream when there is no air to breathe, or a sky to see.

I dream when I'm just 1 step away from finding the best in me.

I dream when I am content, I dream when I am upset.

I dream when I rejoice in achievement and dream when full regret.

I dream because of all things in life, my dreams cannot be taken.

I dream because when all seems lost, in my dreams, I am never forsaken.

You see, I've never had much, but many dreams; I've had.

I've had dreams that were so good that I've needed so bad.

I've learned you can exist or you can live; as confusing as it may seem...

... I've learned that while the world is sleeping, it's better to lay and dream.

"Take Me As I Am"

Take me as I am, a man with many flaws.

A man that loves unconditionally, a man that loves without cause.

A man that loves far too much, a man who cannot hate.

I am what I am, I say what I say, despite what it may create. 

I think too much and feel even more; tell me, who should I be?

When my greatest friend and my greatest foe are both found within me?

I say too much and I'm too honest; how do I tell you what's true,

when lying to you hurts me, and telling you the truth hurts you?

When you get mad, I won't react; In anger, I become weak.

In anger I might say things I wish I did not speak.

... And so I don't speak, because I refuse to let my guard down, 

but when I don't speak, you think I don't care; tell me what I do now.

You despise me when I'm  with you and miss me when I'm away.

You couldn't stand me yesterday, but you say you love me today.

Take me as I am, and as in the years we've both been through...

Take me as the Flawed Man who loves too much and is sitting here waiting for you.

"What More Do We Really Need?"

Tell me you're with me, through thick and through thin.

Because I can never replace the love that I'm in.

We've been up, we've been down; always hand in hand.

For years we've wondered, "How much more can we stand?"

So just when we think we can't bear these pains anymore,

I just want to remind you, love; we've been down this road before.

Yes, we said we can't make it, and yes we've said we need help,

yet despite the struggle and uncertainty, look at how far we've dealt.

In case you forgot, I Love You; Now and Forever More.

In all the struggles that we've endured, we should never forget what they're for.

The times are going so fast, and it's hard to keep up to speed.

but If I got YOU, and you got ME; what more do we really need?

I'm Just Now Seeing...

... What if I've been so fixated on my career, I've forgotten about what really matters in my everyday life?

What if I've been so preoccupied with the people I'm supposed to meet that I forgot about the people I've already met?

What if I put myself before my family and broke my promise to them?

What if, in my pursuit of who I am to BECOME, I've forgotten who I AM?

Taking a Few Steps Back...
David.

Interesting Political Comics

Sometimes a picture with a caption can make for so much more conversation than an article,  and remember; I don't own ANY of these. Leave the lawyers at home, people. Enjoy.

To Imagery,
David.

Moammar Gaddafi Is No More...

After months of rebellion and assaults, Moammar Gaddafi has finally met his fate and was killed Thursday by gunshot wounds. Libya's revolution has reached a milestone that guarantees the liberation of the people after decades of Gaddafi's rule. New questions arise though:

What will Libya transform into?
If Libya becomes an Islamic state, will NATO intervene again?
Will the killing of Gaddafi result in an increased hostility among the Arab populations currently living in dictatorships?

Short and simple, what are your thoughts on not only Libya's future, but the region's future?

- David.

Occupy Wall Street: Precursor to a Revolution or A Leftist Tea Party?

In the past few weeks, a small group of protesters on Wall Street have caught the attention of the mainstream media. In what was originally a small gathering of people protesting economic inequality and the greed on Wall Street, the protest has spread to several major cities and towns throughout the United States. The protest in New York City has also rekindled a number of questions concerning economic inequality, class warfare and the Obama Administration's ability (or inability) to take on the demands of the Occupy Wall Street protesters.

Some see the protesters as the precursors to civil disorder and revolution..

Some see the protesters as naive liberal unemployed Americans..

Some see the protesters as the Left's answer for the Tea Party Movement..

Me? I'm glad to see Americans are gathering in the thousands to protest our government.. PERIOD. I don't care if you're protesting the atrocities from the Bush administration or the Obama Administration's inability to handle the economy and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The fact that Americans are coming together to oppose failed and flawed policies of our government, present and past; I'm relieved to see that Democracy is in fact, at work. This protest highlights an important aspect of our nation, that is that the government is failing in it's role as portrayed in the American adage that it must work "In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union."

Wall Street Firms haven't quite been the most constructive of institutions, both before the 2008 financial collapse and after. Most are very apprehensive of the regulations being proposed and those already passed after the collapse. For this reason, I believe the protests are sparking much needed discussion between regular people, government regulators and wall street firms. The reactions from all will determine how much progress or mayhem is to be brought on by these protests.

I will admit though, I have several concerns with this protest; many of which I share with the Tea Party Movement as well. I'm concerned that this protest will enrage the poor and middle class against the wealthy and vice versa. My biggest concern is that these two protests will polarize the country and its policies at a time when unity is desperately needed. Many people will genuinely believe this era is one which became a time of the rich vs. the poor. Between the unemployed and the ultra wealthy, a national crisis could hurt the middle class the most. I feel that should this spiral into a dispute of "Occupy Wall Street vs. Tea Party Movement", more crises are to arise and the messages of both protests stand to be watered down.

My other concern is that Occupy Wall Street will become a political tool for the left as the Tea Party Movement is a tool for the right. It's clear that far right policies haven't fixed the economy in the 8 years under Bush and the far left policies of the Obama administration are only making matters worse. I feel that not enough Americans are gathering to just admit "The Republicans AND Democrats got this all wrong; Therefore I won't vote for either of them." Not enough discussion has been made (yet) of doing the impossible: Creating a major third political party. Recently, Moveon.org and Labor Unions decided to endorse and take part in the occupy wall street protests. This is reminiscent of when right-wing organizations and companies decided to take part in the tea party movement protests. Once outside money and influence is injected in these protests, the message is hampered and the protests become politically polarized; something that hasn't worked for us as a nation.

My hope is admittedly, a long shot... That the Tea Party Movement and Occupy Wall Street protests decide to combine their demands and efforts in a way that compromises their own ideals yet contributes and creates a movement that unites the country and institutionally reforms the flawed policies and programs within our government and public policy.

Below is a video I found VERY interesting and informative. Please watch the whole video and give me feedback on how you interpret this man's message and ideas.

In Hopes of A Greater Democracy...

- David.

America's Debt; MY take on it...

Recently, Congress decided to increase the debt limit the U.S. government is allowed to possess. At more then 14 trillion dollars, Congress increased the debt limit by more then 2 trillion dollars. In return, Congressional Republicans were guaranteed budget cuts by the trillions. Amongst the political wrangling and bickering, it seems though that we've forgotten the significant reasons for debating debt limits and debt limit increases.

While Congress was busy debating what should be cut from the budget, how much of an increase was necessary and what programs were hands on and off, the discussion shifted away from what I think was the biggest question: How do we avoid future debt limit increases in the future?

For anyone who's confused about this whole topic and why it's so important to our economy, politics and way of life, I'll be sure to explain all the complex details in short, comprehensible ways in a later post. In the meantime, What do some of you suggest we cut out of the budget?

Military funding?
Welfare?
College loan funding?
Obamacare?
Social security?
Medicare/Medicaid?



- Keeping discussion fresh,
David.

Where Are We Headed As A Community?

Lately, the news and media has given us less and less reason to have faith in our sense of community and identity. Matters such as the debt ceiling, our trade deficit, our unemployment rates, our decline in educational advantages, three wars being waged and increase in prices on EVERYTHING (most notably Gas) has our community feeling overwhelmed. We struggle to get by everyday and since so many people are living check to check and day by day, we have a hard time believing we can make not only ourselves better as individuals, but even more difficult, ourselves better as a community. Now I'm not going to have you sit here and read a to-do list I made for our world; I simply want to know what YOU believe as an individual our community needs, lacks, and has too much of.

Trying to get the talking started,

David.

If I Knew THEN What I Know NOW...

Last Night, I finished my last undergraduate class I'll ever take and realized that as fast as I came is as fast as I'm leaving. I never realized the extent of everything I'd see these past four years and the significance of all my experiences. There have been up's and down's; though far mores up's then down's. FAR MORE. I wish I could say it wasn't over but it is. There's a time for everything and I'm moving on to the next chapter in my life. I can say though, there are things I wish I either knew well in advance of college, or things I did in college.

1. ENGAGE PROFESSORS : None of us are perfect in EVERY part of our curriculum and I wish I really understood the amount of help and insight professors and teaching assistants could provide. I wasn't at first fond of the idea of attending meetings I wasn't required to go to but after a number of difficult classes, I've realized that the best answers sometimes can't be found in a textbook. Some answers and material just needs to be explained by an actual person who can sit down and talk it through with you.

2. SCHOLARSHIPS : Unless you're on a free to college (not most of us), we could never have too many money from scholarships. Although a substantial amount of money was given to me in grants and scholarships, I never realized the extent of how much free money for school there was out in the world until I was already in college. Also, I was one of the many people who went through college with the idea that after high school, there weren't many more new scholarships that could be attained. WRONG. Big mistake on my part and unfortunately, I'll be paying for it (No pun intended)...

Moving Right along..

3. NETWORKING: I was lucky enough to appreciate the value of networking way before college yet was not anticipating the extent it would have on not only my academic life, but my career. I will say I've done a substantial amount of networking in college, yet wish I did even more considering just how competitive it is out there "in the real world" (a phrase I DETEST, by the way). Bottom line is the timeless saying remains more true than ever in today's world: "It's not about WHAT you know; It's about WHO you know."

For anyone graduating, these things might be a tad too late for you as they are for me. But for anyone who can still take advantage of more college years to come, do so. Remember how fast your first year of college was?

... It doesn't get any slower.

Time Flies and just when you feel like you're catching up, it gets faster.

To The Years,
- David.

My First Blog Poem

As I was rummaging through my old papers, I came across a few poems I wrote last summer (just to see if I still had it in me!) I was a little rusty after so many years, but I tried! haha, I figure I'll put a few up that some people might be able to relate to.

"You've been hurt, battered and bruised; left out on your own.

You entrusted him with all you had, now you're all alone.

You had your heart broken and it still has not healed

Tell me this, tell me now; how do you really feel?

Do you see your life with another, or is your life just you?

When another man steps to the plate, tell me; what will you do?

Is one man at fault for another man's neglect?

You think with your mind but love with your heart; which one will you protect?

Will animosity run your life or will you live life by fear?

Are you scared of love and getting hurt; are you scared of tears?

To love is to be helpless; are you scared of trust?

You know there are other beautiful women, so are you afraid of lust?

What is it you're scared of and why is it you run?

Is it because you Hate Love from the harm one man has done?

I see your lessons learned, and you say you will not bend

but tell me this, tell me now.. When will you love again?"

In my attempts to get my poetry swag back!
- David.