Finally, a President who cares; so why all the controversy?

I watched the President Obama's speak to young America yesterday and I'm trying to wonder why was there so much controversy surrounding the speech. I know that racism exists in this country and probably always will as long as idiots exist, but how long must the political ignorance continue. I know there are many who don't agree with his politics and that's their right. But are people really so stupid as to think he would push a political agenda through our children. I was almost ashamed of some of the people interviewed in Georgia. I heard everything from "He's pushing a socialist agenda" to "He's a communist", to "I don't want my children to be forced to hear about health care reform". What child cares about going to the doctor or how he gets paid. That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. Should American children aka the leaders of tomorrow really be forced to suffer at the hands of stupid and ignorant parents? Please don't get me wrong, as a parent, I understand the need, want, and the right to protect our children but not allowing them to hear from the current leader of the country on any topic is ridiculous.

America is a wonderful place that allows us the freedom to disagree with our government and make our voices heard, but at what cost. Let's be honest, our educational system needs lots of improvements. Some school systems in the state of Georgia only have a graduation rate of 50%, that's crazy. I love that we have a leader who takes the current education crisis seriously and feels the urgency in preparing our children to enter the real world someday. Why is the city of Atlanta forced to impose a curfew during school hours for children between the ages 6-17 just to deter crime? Shouldn't parents know where their children are during the day anyway? I know kids will be kids and you can't control their every move but what ever happened to setting expectations? My mother never expected me to be a genius but she let me know that quitting wasn't an option. As a single parent, she worked a lot to support us but that was never an excuse. If she couldn't help me with my homework, my aunt who was only 10 years older than me would. Though she couldn't volunteer at the school like some parents, or attend PTA meetings, she was always involved. Isn't that what parents are supposed to do?

Our children deserve to know someone cares and believes in them. If more parents took responsibility and showed more interest in their children's education, a pep talk from the President wouldn't even be necessary. Unfortunately, some children don't have the benefit of parents with sense, so if the President has to be the one to say it, hey I'm all for it.

Gone too soon..

The very first friend I made when I moved to Georgia passed away this weekend. She was a sweet girl and very kind. She opened her home and heart to me when she barely knew me. I was a friend of her cousin, but she quickly became my friend as well.

Over the years, life took over and I lost touch not only with my friend but with her cousin as well. I'm not sure why, but I'm sure it was my fault. When I heard of her passing today, I immediately began to cry. Of course I was sad that she was gone and that her life ended so soon. But I was also sad because I had taken her friendship and kindness for granted and I'm not sure I ever thanked her. She never asked for anything in return and always greeted me with a smile and a kind word. To say she is gone to soon can't even describe what I'm feeling right now and who am I anyway to determine anyone's time. I'm sure it was her time but I always ask "why?"

I offer my condolensces to her family and friends for only they know how special she truly was. I often hear that people are in your life for a reason and a season and most of the time, I can say AMEN to that. This time I'm afraid the season came and went too soon for me and I will never get a chance to thank her for taking me into her home and embracing me the way she did. Though I didn't know her long or maybe as well as most, I will always have fond memories of her. I will miss you C.J. RIP.