Shellfish, ass holes, extreme heat, mayonnaise, and a myriad of other food items, along with doing jail time, are just a few of the things that are simply not for me.
This blog is dedicated to people who feel that their authority takes precedence over common sense, and right and wrong.
I work in a field, that if caught in the wrong situation, with the wrong people, at the wrong time, it could result in my incarceration, and if you know me, you've often heard me say, "I will not do well in Jail" I simply will not. It can't happen.
So today, someone found themselves in the wrong situation, at the wrong time, BUT with the right person, that person being yours truly. I did not feel comfortable in the position, and so I voiced my opinion, as I would do in any uncomfortable situation. Voicing my opinion, was taken to mean that I'm undermining authority and stepping outside my boundaries...BITCH..my boundaries will not be confined to Her Majesty's Prison, so when you're ready to come correctly, you do that. Overstepping my boundaries? Pardon me? I have the right to refuse ANY and ALL of your requests IF I feel a certain level of discomfort with any of them.
Why do people feel that because they have a title before or after their name they can take advantage of those "below" them? Why is it that they feel this title makes them the last shit on earth, the kind that doesn't have an odor, when in fact, it's more pungent than any I've ever had a whiff of myself? Furthermore, I'm entirely uncertain as to why this person would think to even TRY and assume that I would do some foolishness like this, must've forgotten! I'm not like the rest, that needs not be forgotten!
Anyway, I digress. All things for a reason right? God makes no mistakes, so I know at the end of the day, all will be well.
P.S. It's good to be back! Pardon my neglect..but I'm back now, and ready to start anew..
This has been Collegeguy.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
I feel good.
So over the past few days, I've been doing some soul searching, trying to understand why I do what I do, and if I'm doing it for the right reasons. I've come to the conclusion that I've been put here to do special things for people, to be an encouragement to others, all the while lifting up the name of God. In order to do that, I realized I had to be true to myself, and to the ones I love, and love me back. And so I did.
There's no feeling like acceptance from your loved ones, and those I call friends prove that to me everyday. Especially recently. I revealed a "me" that most of them had no idea about, and now they do, and it's as though nothing ever happened, not in the sense that they're ignoring that aspect of me, rather, they're simply not letting it get in the way of our friendship and growth.
To that end I feel good. To have the love and support of loved ones is a great feeling.
At the same time, even if our loved ones don't support every decision we make in our lives, whether or not it affects them directly, we must always remain true to ourselves, keeping in mind that no one can love you better than you. True self love is irreplacable. Love yourself, and be true to yourself lovies, that's the moral for today's story.
This has been Collegeguy.
There's no feeling like acceptance from your loved ones, and those I call friends prove that to me everyday. Especially recently. I revealed a "me" that most of them had no idea about, and now they do, and it's as though nothing ever happened, not in the sense that they're ignoring that aspect of me, rather, they're simply not letting it get in the way of our friendship and growth.
To that end I feel good. To have the love and support of loved ones is a great feeling.
At the same time, even if our loved ones don't support every decision we make in our lives, whether or not it affects them directly, we must always remain true to ourselves, keeping in mind that no one can love you better than you. True self love is irreplacable. Love yourself, and be true to yourself lovies, that's the moral for today's story.
This has been Collegeguy.
Friday, May 8, 2009
It seems like forever...
Hey everyone, please forgive me for my loooong absence. So much has been going on in the past few weeks, and I've ended up neglecting some of my regular activities, for example my blog. But I'm back now, and I hope that I can continue to give you quality and entertaining tid bits to read. Looking forward to it.
This has been Collegeguy.
This has been Collegeguy.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
I finally feel like me.
Hey, so time is running out faster than I could have ever imagined it would. April 23rd is getting closer and closer, and I have bitter sweet feelings about my return home. Of course I miss my family and friends and a few other special people in my life, but I've met new friends here too, formed networks, and have gotten very comfortable in this new environment, but alas, all good things must come to an end and I've come to terms with that.
What amazes me is that only now, have I actually begun to be me. At first, as I've mentioned before, things weren't really going my way, academically at least. The grades I got were not representative of what I normally achieve, and I was worried, rightfully so, I think. I wondered what the problem was, could it be that I'm just not as intellectually gifted as I thought I was? Was it the new school and all the new teaching methods and such? Could it be that I missed home more than I realized? I think that all of these factors played a role in my not doing as well as I could've in the beginning, but things are starting to take a turn for the better. I'm doing much better in two of my classes, one is still a challenge, but hard work has paid off before, and I'm sure it will again. I'm excited again! I'm finally getting grades I always knew I could, and I'm happy.
Other exciting news is that I made The Chronicle Herald! Yay!! I wrote a Letter to the Editor, and it was published! As I understand it, not just ANY letter to the editor is published, it has to be of reasonably good quality, so you can imagine my excitement and utter glee when I saw that mine made the cut. Here's a link to the letter, take a gander and let me know what you think.
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Letters/1111888.html
In other news, I'm travelling to Halifax this weekend for Caribanza which is a banquet/formal event which includes Caribbean students from the different Universities throughout Halifax. It's hosted by St. Mary's University and Dalhousie University. I'm looking forward to it, as I'll have the opportunity to explore Halifax "Proper", if you will, meet new friends, and see old ones.
Oh, and SPRING IS HERE! The snow is melting, and I'm already missing the cold. But I can tell that it's going to be a beautiful spring though, the birds are all happy and chirping, and the people here are all excited! It's still a bit chippy, but the students are all dressed down, flip flops here, short pants there, tank tops there again, it's amazing how things change so quickly.
Anyway, I have to go now. Take care!
This has been Collegeguy.
What amazes me is that only now, have I actually begun to be me. At first, as I've mentioned before, things weren't really going my way, academically at least. The grades I got were not representative of what I normally achieve, and I was worried, rightfully so, I think. I wondered what the problem was, could it be that I'm just not as intellectually gifted as I thought I was? Was it the new school and all the new teaching methods and such? Could it be that I missed home more than I realized? I think that all of these factors played a role in my not doing as well as I could've in the beginning, but things are starting to take a turn for the better. I'm doing much better in two of my classes, one is still a challenge, but hard work has paid off before, and I'm sure it will again. I'm excited again! I'm finally getting grades I always knew I could, and I'm happy.
Other exciting news is that I made The Chronicle Herald! Yay!! I wrote a Letter to the Editor, and it was published! As I understand it, not just ANY letter to the editor is published, it has to be of reasonably good quality, so you can imagine my excitement and utter glee when I saw that mine made the cut. Here's a link to the letter, take a gander and let me know what you think.
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Letters/1111888.html
In other news, I'm travelling to Halifax this weekend for Caribanza which is a banquet/formal event which includes Caribbean students from the different Universities throughout Halifax. It's hosted by St. Mary's University and Dalhousie University. I'm looking forward to it, as I'll have the opportunity to explore Halifax "Proper", if you will, meet new friends, and see old ones.
Oh, and SPRING IS HERE! The snow is melting, and I'm already missing the cold. But I can tell that it's going to be a beautiful spring though, the birds are all happy and chirping, and the people here are all excited! It's still a bit chippy, but the students are all dressed down, flip flops here, short pants there, tank tops there again, it's amazing how things change so quickly.
Anyway, I have to go now. Take care!
This has been Collegeguy.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Things to know..
So, I'm a little past the half way mark on my journey, and there are some 44 days or so left. Spring break is done, and the first half of the semester did not really go my way, but I've decided that I will be the master of my fate, and try to make the most of my experience here, academically at least, socially, I'm doing better than I'd ever imagined..but that's later on.
Adjusting to any type of new situation in life can be difficult, and can sometimes prove to be overwhelming, but as we get further and further vested into our new situations, we find ways to make do, it's just what we do. I'd just like to take this time to offer a bit of friendly and necessary advice if you were to ever travel to Canada, or some place with a similar climate.
First of all, don't believe the hype. It's cold, but it's not THAT cold. Before I left to come here, I was advised that one GOOD winter coat would suffice, along of course with a few sweaters and clothing that can serve as layers, but of course this did not happen. I allowed my dear sweet mother, and other friends to influence me, clouding my better judgement, and over packed, bringing a lot of unnecessary items. Seriously, a GOOD winter coat, which will be a bit costly, but totally worth it ,along with clothing that can serve as layering, will suffice. Clothing that can serve as layers can be purchased from anywhere, but I made my purchases from Old Navy, they were pretty inexpensive, and proved to do the job just right. You want to pick up long sleeve shirts, or pull overs that aren't too heavy, but can warm you up.
A good winter coat will be costly as I've mentioned before, but keep in mind that you want to avoid getting sick, and also think of it as an investment, you never know when you'll end up in Canada again, or somewhere with a similar climate. They roughly range from around 100 - 200.00 dollars, depending on the brand, size, and quality.
Another thing to be conscious of is the amount of clothing you bring, especially if travelling for education purposes. If you're going to school for a semester, or for 4 years, it really doesn't seem to make a difference, there's no need to bring your entire wardrobe, trust me, you'll find things where you're going to wear over time...TRUST me. Lol.
Long Johns: These are essential as well, oh, and please, get the right size. I got a pair, and oh my...not the right size at all. Don't get your regular size, they're really snug, so you may want to purchase them one or two sizes too big, depending on your body size.
Boots: Please get a good pair of boots. Ensure that they are winter boots, and not fashion boots, Gentlemen, a nice rugged pair of Timbalands will do just fine, Ladies I'm not entirely sure which brand will work best for you, but you want to make sure that they have thick soles, and can stand the water, and make sure they have a good grip as well, falling down on ice is not something you want to do.
Personal Care items: soap, toothepaste, deodarant etc, please there's no need to bring the entire Wal-mart with you, those things are universally sold, of course you should come with a travel pack size of everything just until you're settled in, and maybe one or two extra things as you deem necessary, but it's not as if the place you're going won't have them. The lighter you travel, the less hassle you'll have at the airport, and the less stress you'll incur. This advice is for both males and females, we all know our bodies, and females, yes I know your hair can be a big deal, but get a nice simple style that you think can last for at least a month, there may not be a hair stylist that meets your standards nearby, but rest assured that all will indeed be well.
One of our most natural concerns as human beings going into new situations and new environments is "will they like me?" Most likely they will, a lot of us don't want to admit it, but we do want to be accepted, and generally liked, of course there will be some that don't but that's ok, for the most part, you'll do just fine.
Also too, find your roots, get to know your Bahamian counterparts, if not all, some. Become familiarized with them because they know what you need to, who knows? Perhaps it can lead to new found friendships that can last for a lifetime.
Finally, be thankful. There are many people that would love to be where I'm at, and where you could one day be. Always be thankful, both to God, and to the people that afforded you the opportunity in the first place. Afterall, no one likes ungrateful people. That's never sexy. Let me just say it again, just in case, after all, you can never be too thankful...Thank you COB, and Mr. Russell for allowing me to spread my wings in a way that I could not have done at this time without your assistance. I am truly grateful for your time, efforts, support and words of encouragement over the past three months.
Finally again, lol, come prepared to have a BLAST. I've done so many things since I've been here, and the fun just seems to keep coming. Fashion shows, ski trips, meeting new friends, late night talks, it's truly an experience like no other.
This has been collegeguy.
Adjusting to any type of new situation in life can be difficult, and can sometimes prove to be overwhelming, but as we get further and further vested into our new situations, we find ways to make do, it's just what we do. I'd just like to take this time to offer a bit of friendly and necessary advice if you were to ever travel to Canada, or some place with a similar climate.
First of all, don't believe the hype. It's cold, but it's not THAT cold. Before I left to come here, I was advised that one GOOD winter coat would suffice, along of course with a few sweaters and clothing that can serve as layers, but of course this did not happen. I allowed my dear sweet mother, and other friends to influence me, clouding my better judgement, and over packed, bringing a lot of unnecessary items. Seriously, a GOOD winter coat, which will be a bit costly, but totally worth it ,along with clothing that can serve as layering, will suffice. Clothing that can serve as layers can be purchased from anywhere, but I made my purchases from Old Navy, they were pretty inexpensive, and proved to do the job just right. You want to pick up long sleeve shirts, or pull overs that aren't too heavy, but can warm you up.
A good winter coat will be costly as I've mentioned before, but keep in mind that you want to avoid getting sick, and also think of it as an investment, you never know when you'll end up in Canada again, or somewhere with a similar climate. They roughly range from around 100 - 200.00 dollars, depending on the brand, size, and quality.
Another thing to be conscious of is the amount of clothing you bring, especially if travelling for education purposes. If you're going to school for a semester, or for 4 years, it really doesn't seem to make a difference, there's no need to bring your entire wardrobe, trust me, you'll find things where you're going to wear over time...TRUST me. Lol.
Long Johns: These are essential as well, oh, and please, get the right size. I got a pair, and oh my...not the right size at all. Don't get your regular size, they're really snug, so you may want to purchase them one or two sizes too big, depending on your body size.
Boots: Please get a good pair of boots. Ensure that they are winter boots, and not fashion boots, Gentlemen, a nice rugged pair of Timbalands will do just fine, Ladies I'm not entirely sure which brand will work best for you, but you want to make sure that they have thick soles, and can stand the water, and make sure they have a good grip as well, falling down on ice is not something you want to do.
Personal Care items: soap, toothepaste, deodarant etc, please there's no need to bring the entire Wal-mart with you, those things are universally sold, of course you should come with a travel pack size of everything just until you're settled in, and maybe one or two extra things as you deem necessary, but it's not as if the place you're going won't have them. The lighter you travel, the less hassle you'll have at the airport, and the less stress you'll incur. This advice is for both males and females, we all know our bodies, and females, yes I know your hair can be a big deal, but get a nice simple style that you think can last for at least a month, there may not be a hair stylist that meets your standards nearby, but rest assured that all will indeed be well.
One of our most natural concerns as human beings going into new situations and new environments is "will they like me?" Most likely they will, a lot of us don't want to admit it, but we do want to be accepted, and generally liked, of course there will be some that don't but that's ok, for the most part, you'll do just fine.
Also too, find your roots, get to know your Bahamian counterparts, if not all, some. Become familiarized with them because they know what you need to, who knows? Perhaps it can lead to new found friendships that can last for a lifetime.
Finally, be thankful. There are many people that would love to be where I'm at, and where you could one day be. Always be thankful, both to God, and to the people that afforded you the opportunity in the first place. Afterall, no one likes ungrateful people. That's never sexy. Let me just say it again, just in case, after all, you can never be too thankful...Thank you COB, and Mr. Russell for allowing me to spread my wings in a way that I could not have done at this time without your assistance. I am truly grateful for your time, efforts, support and words of encouragement over the past three months.
Finally again, lol, come prepared to have a BLAST. I've done so many things since I've been here, and the fun just seems to keep coming. Fashion shows, ski trips, meeting new friends, late night talks, it's truly an experience like no other.
This has been collegeguy.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
I Am Not My Hair
So attached to this note, is a picture of me, adorning my latest hair style and expressing my anger and "fed-up-ness" at this world we live in today. India Aire has a song entitled "I am not my hair" and the chorus goes:
I will admit that although the style is nice, it is a BIT unflattering on me, but I am in the middle of a process, that process is locking. I want locks. With that said, I'll begin my story.
I showed this picture to a very trusted friend today, someone that I look up to, respect, love unconditionally, would give my life for, and she asked me exactly what I was trying to prove. I said well I'm not sure I understand what you are getting at, I'm not trying to prove anything, this is one of the steps I have to take in order to get my end result, as with any process in this life. We got into a GIGANTIC "discussion" about my hair, whether or not I will be able to work with it, and the issue of why I was doing it came up. I said well because it's something that I always wanted to try, I've just always wanted to do it. That makes no sense she says, you can't provide a good reason for doing it, so you shouldn't do it. Well the last time I checked, doing something that I want to do is more than reason enough. Fine she says, but what will people say? Only people who is drink and smoke and shoot up the place lock their hair. Now I HAD to jump on that. In my opinion that statement EPITOMIZES ignorance. How can you sit there and actually say such a thing? Are you telling me that EVERY SINGLE individual with dred locks smokes, they all drink, and they all have an insanely vast criminal record? Please, please provide the evidence. "What will everyone say?" she asked.."lawd he gone foreign and come back rasta..dese young chirren ain gat no guidance". Well I'm sorry to say, but as long as human beings live and breathe, they will be insecure. That is something that will never go away. Further, it matters not the way I wear my hair, I could be bald for heaven's sake, and people would still have their 5 cents to add, as if I asked for an opinion.
It saddens me though, that in THIS day, a day of advances in technology unfathomable by my grandparents, and their children even, that HAIR is left to determine the man. My hair has NOTHING to do with who I am as an individual. It does not determine my measure as a man, it does not determine the choices I make, and it most certainly does not make me any more or less the Amad you knew without dred locks. We talk about equality, and justice for all, etc, yet, a man is criticized for the choices he makes in life, regardless of how big or small they may be. Is the woman who strips at night to feed her baby a bad person? Is the young man selling news papers on the road to pay his tuition yet another worthless drop out? We will never know will we? We don't bother to find out why people do the things they do, we simply judge, lable and condemn. I'm not trying to compare my simple choice to the more life altering ones that others may have to make in life, but the fact still remains, it's a CHOICE. If I choose to wear my hair in a fashion that is "unacceptable" to you, does that make me any less Amad? The quality of my person is not diminished, nor is the quality of my work.
I long for the day when all judgement and persecution for silly things can stop, I long for a day when an individual can be simply that; an individual without fear of condemnation. Perhaps I'm longing for something that will never happen. Regardless of what happens, the one thing I know is that I am NOT my hair.
"Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but us can free our minds." An open minded person lives a freer life. Think about it.
I am not my hair
I am not this skin
I am not your expectations no no
I am not my hair
I am not this skin
I am a soul that lives within
I will admit that although the style is nice, it is a BIT unflattering on me, but I am in the middle of a process, that process is locking. I want locks. With that said, I'll begin my story.
I showed this picture to a very trusted friend today, someone that I look up to, respect, love unconditionally, would give my life for, and she asked me exactly what I was trying to prove. I said well I'm not sure I understand what you are getting at, I'm not trying to prove anything, this is one of the steps I have to take in order to get my end result, as with any process in this life. We got into a GIGANTIC "discussion" about my hair, whether or not I will be able to work with it, and the issue of why I was doing it came up. I said well because it's something that I always wanted to try, I've just always wanted to do it. That makes no sense she says, you can't provide a good reason for doing it, so you shouldn't do it. Well the last time I checked, doing something that I want to do is more than reason enough. Fine she says, but what will people say? Only people who is drink and smoke and shoot up the place lock their hair. Now I HAD to jump on that. In my opinion that statement EPITOMIZES ignorance. How can you sit there and actually say such a thing? Are you telling me that EVERY SINGLE individual with dred locks smokes, they all drink, and they all have an insanely vast criminal record? Please, please provide the evidence. "What will everyone say?" she asked.."lawd he gone foreign and come back rasta..dese young chirren ain gat no guidance". Well I'm sorry to say, but as long as human beings live and breathe, they will be insecure. That is something that will never go away. Further, it matters not the way I wear my hair, I could be bald for heaven's sake, and people would still have their 5 cents to add, as if I asked for an opinion.
It saddens me though, that in THIS day, a day of advances in technology unfathomable by my grandparents, and their children even, that HAIR is left to determine the man. My hair has NOTHING to do with who I am as an individual. It does not determine my measure as a man, it does not determine the choices I make, and it most certainly does not make me any more or less the Amad you knew without dred locks. We talk about equality, and justice for all, etc, yet, a man is criticized for the choices he makes in life, regardless of how big or small they may be. Is the woman who strips at night to feed her baby a bad person? Is the young man selling news papers on the road to pay his tuition yet another worthless drop out? We will never know will we? We don't bother to find out why people do the things they do, we simply judge, lable and condemn. I'm not trying to compare my simple choice to the more life altering ones that others may have to make in life, but the fact still remains, it's a CHOICE. If I choose to wear my hair in a fashion that is "unacceptable" to you, does that make me any less Amad? The quality of my person is not diminished, nor is the quality of my work.
I long for the day when all judgement and persecution for silly things can stop, I long for a day when an individual can be simply that; an individual without fear of condemnation. Perhaps I'm longing for something that will never happen. Regardless of what happens, the one thing I know is that I am NOT my hair.
"Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but us can free our minds." An open minded person lives a freer life. Think about it.
An expression of my anger and fed-up-ness.
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