JAHsh's Reasonings

Discipline

2012-01-30T22:45:00.002-05:00

Discipline

It tek discipline
To keep you structure thin
And keep up the trainin'

It tek discipline
To get the right nutrition
And eat up ital cookin'

It tek discipline
To keep you dread from trim
And hold the roots tradition

It tek discipline
To know each human you kin
And to unite all African

It tek discipline
To keep on penny pinchin'
And to build up a savin'

It tek discipline
To get the right education
And to guide the children

It tek discipline
To firm up you relation
And love without condition

It tek discipline
To have a life mission
And forward to achievin'

It tek discipline
To leave all the politician
And to hold your own position

It tek discipline
To keep far weh from sin
And stop all the gossipin'

It tek discipline
To hold some peace within
And keep the beast from win

It tek discipline
To trod with the Lion
And bun out the Dragon

Mi beg you, listen
Life... it tek discipline

JMC
1/30/12
(c) 2012

Boko Haram

2012-01-28T23:30:00.002-05:00

Boko Haram

Boko Haram, stop planting di bomb
JAH gonna whip down yuh organization
Boko Haram, me seh what a bam bam
Stop antagonizing all of the Nigerian

Boko Haram set upon Goodluck Jonathan
Putting the whole nation inna state of alarm
Boko Haram deh in the northern region
Making the Muslim fight all the Christian

Boko Haram must put down the weapon
Kalashnikovs inna Kano keep firing on
Boko Haram killing men like chicken
See the blood run like oil from the palm

Boko Haram, stop all the terrorism
Africans murdering more African
Boko Haram, setting off detonation
All in the name of your false religion

Boko Haram, you better take caution
And Abubakar Shekau, your wicked imam
Boko Haram, promoting pure confusion
Just wait 'til the day when Selassie I come

Boko Haram, yuh must practice salaam
Allah never tell yuh fi kidnap the children
Boko Haram, stop all the violent action
All of this wrong is only serving Satan

JMC
1/28/12
(c) 2012

Boko Haram is a radical Islamic sect which is responsible for attacking communities in northern Nigeria. They threaten to make war on the people and the government until the whole country converts to their brand of Islam, even though Nigeria is almost half Muslim and half Christian. This is one of the many conflicts taking place in Africa that barely gets any coverage in the western world. Rastafari say to stop the war and Africa, unite!

Holy Night

2012-01-07T11:40:00.002-05:00

Holy Night

Bredrens gathered around the crackling fire
Inspired to illuminate the cool darkness
And harness the word, power and sound
Found amid the roots of their groundation
Giving ises and supplication to the Most High
JAH, Rastafari; there, beneath the night sky
Each I sending his own thoughts, flying like sparks
Becoming part of the universe, as bright as a star
Seen shining far over distant hills and plains
Perhaps the same way that it had once been
When some shepherd men rested with their flocks
Sitting upon rocks in sight of a light they followed
On to hallowed ground, there, awaiting their king
To come and bring blessings to the whole earth
The birth of the One that they would call Emmanuel
So that every tongue would tell of this moment in time
When a sign was given to sight up the Kristos, Shiloh
And now, even in the warm glow of fiery embers
The Spirit remembers the soul of the same name
Rejoicing in the reign of His Majesty, One In Three
While those who have eyes to see and ears to hear
Have come to share together in burning the sacrament
And commence a new session in the Jerusalem School
Where a few have become that fire in the Holy Night

JMC
1/7/12
(c) 2012

January 7th is the day of Ethiopian Orthodox Christmas, known as “Lidet” or “Genna”, the Light of the Birth of the Lord Jesus Christ (Iyesus Kristos). Many within the Twelve Tribes of Israel and Orthodox houses of Rastafari sight up this holiday to celebrate Christmas rather than December 25th because of Ethiopia’s adherence to the ancient Roots Christianity, the faith of Emperor Haile Selassie I. Melkam Lidet!

Still Waters Run Deep

2011-12-31T23:50:00.003-05:00

For months I’ve been wanting to sit down and write something intriguing. The year 2011 was full of significant events, both personal and global, so it’s not as if there was a shortage of things to write about. However, on this New Year’s Eve I am left with an unimpressive collection of writings to show for the year. At times I would start something, but the most that would come of it were some half-scribbled notes strewn about somewhere. On other occasions I had some worthy thoughts to share, but I had neither the energy nor time to commit any of them to writing. It’s been tough not being able to express myself as much and when compared to last year when I wrote prolifically, 2011 might seem like a silent river rolling through time. Yet as the old proverb goes, “still waters run deep”. For those on the “river banks” looking in, the true greatness and bounty of 2011 was what actually lay beneath the surface of my life.

2011 was the biggest year of my life. It was the year I purchased my first home. It was the year I ran my first race. It was the year I got engaged to my beautiful Empress. Finally, and most significantly, it was the year that she and I married and became one before the Almighty. All of these huge blessings came so naturally, but also so unexpectedly. Looking back several years ago, I would have had no premonitions at all. Even in 2010, where there were hints of things to come, I still wouldn’t have been able to fully grasp it all. Normally, I have at least some words to express myself on landmark events, especially when it comes to my own life. Yet, all I could do was just soak it all in, and absorb the love and the good fortune that I was experiencing every single day. It has been a year of giving thanks for all that I have.

How can one describe the most momentous day of his life? How do you capture the emotions, the nuances, and every single note of the symphony of blessings that played? You can’t. No photographs, videos, or written accounts can capture the absolute brilliance of that day in early October. Our wedding was amazing. We worked so hard to make it what we had hoped it to be, a joyous start to our lives together. We were the creators of our union... fusing our love for each other, our spirituality and love for JAH, our roots and culture, our families and our friends all together into a celebration that was more than we could have imagined. Moreover, we were blessed in so many ways that were completely out of our control, including having the most spectacular weather. It wasn’t a fairy-tale wedding with fanfare and ridiculous expenses like 2011’s British Royal Wedding. It wasn’t a typical wedding like you see in magazines or television shows. Rather, it was our own reality, our values, our design, our vows. It was the celebration of a lifetime for the union of lifetime. Even if things had not gone as we planned, the outcome would have still been the same, and nothing would ever or could ever keep my Empress and I apart. No power on earth could ever keep us from being bound together in love and unity. Of course... that was all the easy part. It was all in the hands of the Most High!

A lesson that I quickly learned is that becoming a married man means having additional responsibilities and an abundant amount of patience. In fact, a few days earlier I was joking with friends that you truly aren’t a man until you become a married man (and yes, I’ve been reminded that having children will redefine living once again). It’s not just about living for yourself anymore and doing anything that you want as long as you have the means and time to do it. Being married makes things completely different. I now think as a couple and I play the game of life a little more tactfully. For me, 2011 has meant having financial obligations that I never had to cope with before, making decisions and compromising on issues that I would not have had to consider. Being married has even changed my vernacular, it’s not “I” or “me” anymore, it is “us”, “we”, yes, it is I&I! Despite it all, it has not been all that difficult (although I’m sure that I can reflect on this more accurately next year). More than anything, it has been time consuming.

So while I have been adjusting to the responsibilities that come with being a married man, the world has kept turning. Politically, there have been huge changes in the world. It was the year of the “Arab Spring” with revolutions and uprisings in Egypt, Libya, Syria, Tunisia, Yemen and other countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Osama Bin Laden was killed, so was Muammar Qaddafi. Kim Jong Il died. South Sudan became the world’s newest country. All types of natural disasters reminded us that we humans are just one small part of the world: earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, fires, hurricanes, and epic snow storms. Also, we cannot forget about the terrible ongoing famine in Somalia (it seems that it only survived news headlines for a few days). Back in America we have had protests and demonstrations of our own with the Occupy Movement in response to the economy and unemployment. Politicians and candidates claim to have solutions to the nation’s problems but they continue to blunder and argue like fools. 2011 was a year of shifting tides, but the seas are still stormy and there will be much to reflect on in 2012.

Still waters run deep, and I’ve been too still this past year to get too deep into any other thoughts, but I do end this year with the prospect of making positive changes in the year to come. I am not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but I do hope to settle into my new lifestyle a little more and bring balance. I hope to write more and reflect more. I hope to be more patient and more organized. I hope to spend more time with JAH, giving thanks and praises. I hope to grow more with my wife and my entire family in a positive way. I hope to make it to Africa. Whatever comes in 2012, I know that life is as good as we make it... so I say to make the most of it, and God will handle the rest. 2012 has a negative stigma to it because of Mayan calendars and Nostradamus prophecies, but you can’t live in fear and negativity. Better must come. Live up, live good, and be the change you want to see in the world.

One Love & Happy New Year,
JAHsh

King & Queen

2011-10-09T22:00:00.001-04:00

King & Queen

A royal love, a divine love
The very love spoken of
Since the earliest of ages
In ancient Holy Book pages
Now witness and come see
How he and she seem to be
Singing the Song of Solomon
In tune with the deep rhythm
Of their two beating hearts
This is what JAH joins together
And no one shall break it apart
For here before you stand
This woman and this man
Who with abundant blessings
Will reign for generations
This truly is the incarnation
Of a rare, legendary love
Conceived of in Mount Zion
And when you’re asked about
What today you have seen
Tell them it was the marriage
Of a king to his queen

JMC
9/18/11
(c) 2011

Celebrating the friends and families who attended our marriage on October 8, 2011. Giving thanks for all of the blessings and the most beautiful day that anyone could ever imagine.

Forged For Forever

2011-10-08T23:20:00.002-04:00

Forged For Forever

Here it starts with our two
Hearts forged for forever
With Jehovah’s flame we
Sign and seal this love letter
Moon and sun become one
Our souls eclipse together
And we’ll never stop from
Shining all the days of our life
We shall share this journey
Eternally, united
As husband and wife…

JMC
7/24/11
(c) 2011

Our Wedding Day
October 8, 2011

Heed H.I.M. Utterances

2011-07-23T14:32:00.003-04:00

Heed H.I.M. Utterances

H.I.M. come but they never heed the words
Of His Utterances or His Royal Standards
And so the world comes undone in tragedy
They really need the guidance of His Majesty
But they never yet follow H.I.M. way, no way
And I see the nations go astray, every day

Replacing old autocracies with democracies
While installing their western philosophies
Ignoring the world’s pandemics and atrocities
Like the brutal raping of the Congolese
And endless wars between the Sudanese
Only looking for who can oil their machinery
Babylon needs a prize to pay their war fee
So they put a mark on Muammar Qaddafi

We’ve seen tsunami and earthquake in Japan
Tornado and floods destroy American land
The resurfacing of Al Qaida and the Taliban
Even though Obama killed Osama in Pakistan
Every day there’s another story at the newsstand
There’s only so much that people can withstand
Just like the youths in Syria and Yemen demand
We need a revolution to free-up JAH homeland

H.I.M. come but they never heed the words
Of His Utterances or His Royal Standards
And so the world comes undone in tragedy
They really need the guidance of His Majesty
But they never yet follow H.I.M. way, no way
And I see the nations go astray, every day

Babylon will do anything for money in their pockets
Selling the youths grenades and hand-held rockets
Call it a third world when they mash-up the tropics
And come back again as deceitful philanthropics
No electricity is coming out from the wall sockets
No clean water flow freely from out of the faucets
Desperate people soon turn to desperate topics
And Babylon drinks their blood from their goblets

See the Arab Spring we should do the same thing
Tear down Babylon walls, and the world banking
The whole ship crash and the economy is tanking
We should make the leaders walk off the planking
Rise up, because it is JAH we should be thanking
And make we all hail up the world’s only true King
Take a look and see that Babylon city is sinking
Time to listen to H.I.M. Utterances and start thinking

H.I.M. come but they never heed the words
Of His Utterances or His Royal Standards
And so the world comes undone in tragedy
They really need the guidance of His Majesty
But they never yet follow H.I.M. way, no way
And I see the nations go astray, every day

H.I.M. seh, good can never grow out of evil
H.I.M. seh, life is in the soul, the body is a vehicle
H.I.M. seh, education is guarantee for a better life
H.I.M. seh, have confidence and continue to strive
H.I.M. seh, belief in the Creator is the surest foundation
H.I.M. seh, there is no peace without cooperation
H.I.M. seh, feel the needs of others before your own
H.I.M. seh, Mama Africa is our spiritual home
H.I.M. seh, laziness breeds sin, poverty and discontent
H.I.M. seh, let the whole world rebuild the continent

JMC
7/23/11
(c) 2001

Today is the Earthstrong of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I! In this world crisis we must remember to follow the words of the King. The world would surely be a better place. I&I Rastafari give thanks for the example of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I.

Two Mountains

2011-05-31T23:30:00.002-04:00

Two Mountains

Mi breddah tell mi seh
Two mountains don’t meet
But I-man know when we speak
I&I sight up the mountain peak

The Most High seh
Seek and you will find a like mind
Iyer ites united by divine design
Like mountains that endure time
Standing firm as a righteous sign
To remind all mankind to combine

Mi breddah tell mi seh
Two mountains don’t meet
But when we greet pon the street
Surely, Satan must retreat

JMC
5/31/11
(c) 2011

My Time Has Come

2011-05-25T23:30:00.001-04:00

Around this time last year, if someone had told me about all of the huge blessings and positive changes in life that would manifest for me, I would have probably laughed and thought that it would be great but unrealistic. After all, a year is not that much time... especially when you are busy and a good portion of your life becomes routine. How could so many things happen in such a short amount of time... things that I had been waiting on for ages it seemed? I am an optimist, but I am also a realist. When I turned 30 last May, I had my ideas and hopes for the future, but I was mostly looking back on what things I had accomplished and the significance attached to the milestone year I was passing into. What would come, would come in its own due season. Apparently that season was my 30th year. It was a very good year!

So what exactly happened? It is hard to fathom, but within the days falling between May 22nd of 2010 and May 22nd of 2011, I was given the following blessings. One, finding and becoming engaged to my beautiful fiancée, “my puzzle piece”, who fits into my life as if she were tailor made, and I truly know this to be true. Two, owning my first home, my own place, my own space... it is amazing. Three, taking on an additional job in education and succeeding at it. Four, getting healthier by the day and surpassing goals in my physical fitness. I could go on and recognize many other good things, but no words could ever do any of it justice. Moreover, each of these things are not mere “flashes in the pan”, rather they are investments that will continue to multiply during this next year and the years to come. Nothing in my life thus far can compare to this sense of achievement that I feel. It is a natural mystic...

All of this proves to me that life is full of so many great and wonderful possibilities. Often times, we may see our goals as far away and unobtainable, like a mirage in the distant horizon. Yet at the same time, what may appear as a mirage could in fact be the real thing, and in that case one would only have to be patient, persistent, and trod forward in the proper direction. Some things will come into our lives quite naturally, but other things we will have to work for in order to take advantage of the opportunity. By doing certain things in advance, I put myself in a good position to receive what was in store for me. It hasn’t been easy, and at times I am exhausted (so exhausted that it is harder for me to find the time to write and reflect these days), but it is for the sake of being progressive and being fruitful.

We must also realize that there is a time for everything, and it’s usually not the time that we have in mind for ourselves. I had gone through most of my 20’s seemingly chasing the proverbial carrot on a stick. I would never have thought that it would come back to me on a silver platter once I had stopped running after it. Therefore I must tell my friends to not get caught up in a tangle of time and age... because the proper time will come if you be still and have some faith. There is no need to fear time or try to stop it. Embrace it and experience it... it opens doors of overstanding (understanding).

So, having turned 31 just a few days ago, I must say I am the happiest that I’ve ever been. I know that I will continue to hold this joy because it doesn’t end here. Although it is easy to single out “30” as being special, there is the potential for the next years to be even greater because everything builds on the foundations of times past. I can’t wait to enjoy some of the harvest I’ve reaped and to take the seeds and plant again for the next season. Good seed grows good fruit!

I give thanks to the Almighty for my time to shine, for the goodness to light my way on this journey called life. It was an amazing year of my life, and now I can share this life with my Empress and a family gained. Oh JAH, You have been so good to me! Please, bless me continually!

Life Is Beautiful,
JAHsh

Centurion

2011-05-21T23:50:00.003-04:00

Centurion

One hundred years ago, he was
Born in a tiny village amongst
The chestnut trees and ancient
Churches in green mountains
And his legacy fountains through
My veins because he remains
Here, alive and well in my heart
And though he now rests up on
Another green hill, I know he will
Always watch over us, just like
San Michele high above Volturara
A sentry through our centuries

JMC
5/21/11
(c) 2011

Livicated to my Grandpa, Edmond Gioielli, who would have been 100 years old today, May 21, 2011.

Intercontinental Ballistic Miss-You

2011-03-13T12:55:00.000-04:00

Intercontinental Ballistic Miss-You

I'll launch up to the highest height
Up among those satellites
And travel near the speed of light
To land beside you in the night
I'd do anything to hold and kiss you
So I'm sending you
An intercontinental ballistic miss-you

I need you back at our place
So I'm starting up my arms race
They're longing for your embrace
Shooting from the home base
The love you inspire isn't standard issue
So I'm firing off
An intercontinental ballistic miss-you

It soars across Atlantic skies
Straight into the sunrise
Toward the target, my heart flies
When you wake-up, you'll realize
That my aim for you is always true
So I'm launching
An intercontinental ballistic miss-you

JMC
3/13/11
(c) 2011

Build You A Castle

2011-02-28T18:52:00.002-05:00

Build You A Castle

For you, I will build a castle
With my cornerstone of love
And on that solid foundation
Together we shall rise above

No enemy can break us asunder
No one can penetrate our walls
Because we are always protected
The Most High guards our halls

Inside, there’ll be many rooms
Each one empty to one’s view
Only filled up with great treasure
When you are passing through

You will take the throne beside me
And here together we will reign
No matter what the circumstances
Our love will remain the same

From the windows of your room
And the vista from your balcony
All that you see could be yours
Because we conquer impossibility

For you, I will build a castle
High enough to kiss the stars
And from the tallest tower
I’ll declare the world is ours

JMC
2/28/11
(c) 2011

Stop Dreaming, Start Doing

2011-01-17T23:30:00.004-05:00

Many great things have taken place in American history thanks to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other civil rights leaders who devoted their lives to overcoming the evils of injustice and hypocrisy. It took a phenomenal amount of courage to lead a revolution against the status quo that dominated American society at the time. It took determination to boldly fight for the transcendental Truth which had been hidden away and ignored since the founding of the United States. It took wisdom and foresight to look for changes and dismantle racist and oppressive institutions but without vengeance, without blood, and without hatred. Finally it took action. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke eloquently and his words will always live on, but he is mostly remembered because he was also a man of action. Rhetoric is not enough to make change occur. Dr. King emerged as a leader during a tumultuous time in the U.S. , as did many other people, mostly nameless, who also dedicated their lives to battling racism and raise awareness of the problems in America. We have examples of Thurgood Marshall fighting against legal segregation, the Little Rock Nine, Jackie Robinson breaking the color line in MLB, the murder of Emitt Till, Rosa Parks and the bus boycotts. We think of the nonviolent protests, sit-in movements, the Freedom Riders, James Meredith, Medgar Evers, and the Dr. King’s March on Washington. The protests and several tragic killings of black Americans brought national attention to the civil rights movement. Without action and without sacrifice, social justice and progress might not have happened.

Since MLK’s time, we live in a free and cosmopolitan society. Whether it is in our own communities or through media and pop-culture, America can be seen as a place where all kinds of different people can hope to live in peace and happiness no matter your race, creed, complexion and now more increasingly, your sexual orientation. Ideally, you can safely walk wherever you want and you can go to any public facility or event. Legally, there is equality in schools, and in the work-place. Generations of American children have grown up with multiethnic friends and heroes. We have even lived to see the election of a black president, President Barack Obama. These achievements have been an inspiration to the world, especially in nations that lived vicariously through the victory African-Americans had won during the civil rights era. The Caribbean and African nations drew on the examples of leadership and struggle found in the U.S., as did all types of people from Asian, Latin American, and European countries. This is why we celebrate Martin Luther King Day in America. Yet, it is also why we are forgetting the true example and legacy of MLK.

Because so much has seemingly changed, and because generations of young Americans grew up in a country that no longer has obvious signs of racism, we often forget that this progress was not an overnight phenomenon. Dr. Martin Luther King did not give his “I Have A Dream Speech” on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and immediately afterward people were overcome with the need to hug each other and apologize for the wrong’s of the past and present. No, MLK was an example of one of those people taking the first steps toward equality. After African-Americans were protected by the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, resentment against this legislation led to increased racism in some parts of the North with de facto discrimination. Opponents of civil rights became violent, activists were attacked and killed... Dr. King was assassinated. Change did not come right away, in fact, it seemed too slow, which is why many African-American activists like Malcolm X and Stokely Carmichael sought out more militant forms of protest against discrimination and segregation. Much of this frustration and racial tension erupted in the form of violence and riots. Although it may have not have followed suit with MLK’s dream, this part of the civil rights movement ultimately led to cultural pride and political gains that had not existed before. Martin Luther King, Jr. is remembered, but we rarely recall the continuation of the civil rights movement or the transition into our modern identity as America, which is still a mission in progress.

It is great to honor and respect Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the other civil rights leaders and activists... but the greatest honor to him would be to realize that the movement still continues and that we all need to continue to be activists. Too many of us have become comfortable and apathetic. Problems did not end with the civil rights era. Neither black or white, or any other Americans, are living in a utopian society. Unemployment, urban poverty, and homelessness have been in the rise for several decades, and because of the current economic and social challenges that we are facing, these problems only continue to grow. Furthermore, these issues are magnified in the African-American and other “minority” communities because of their historical situations and years of discrimination. It is not enough to depend on historical legacy or our government to make the change. We have to initiate it with direct action, and we must fight against the enemies of our advancement.

MLK’s mission in life was for people everywhere to have dignity, equality, and justice... especially within the disadvantaged black community. This has not yet happened, and there are still plenty of roadblocks in the way. Racism and discrimination still exists in America. It would be foolish to believe that it all just disappeared after the civil rights era. It is alive and well, but not blatantly obvious. Instead, it is hidden in conservative political rhetoric, disguised as concerned radio talk-show hosts, and in agendas that in reality negatively affect the black community. Educational and social challenges remain. An achievement gap exists between white and black students (I see this first-hand as a high school teacher). Black students have higher dropout rates, lower test scores, and fewer enrollments in colleges. Many schoolchildren are increasingly separated by race in resegrated schools because of middle class families moving into suburbs. The increase in single-parent families has resulted in a struggle with providing education and health opportunities for the youths. The cost of living is high and many black communities are still plagued with crime and inequality and job and educational opportunities. These have been on-going problems and all too often they are blamed on the victims instead of the powers-that-be.

It is hard times in America, for everyone, but disproportionately for minorities and the working poor despite the progress that civil rights have made. People have a right to question things, people have a right to have opportunities available to them... yet there are some that would like to reverse many of the advances we have made in regard to social equality and justice. It is the same sentiments that existed before the civil rights but now in the angry voices of movements like the Tea Party which speak of “taking America back”. Yet I have questions to ask, and questions which must be answered honestly. Taking America back to what... back to when? When the whole nation wasn’t feeling what African-Americans and others have been feeling for centuries? Back when there was no political participation voice for these people? Back when there was no government assistance or political progress for these people? Back to when black people were 3/5ths of a person in our original Constitution? Dare I say, back to slavery days?... Many conservatives and concerned citizens are blaming President Barack Obama, a black president, for these problems, but if you are a student of American history, you would know that these economic and social problems have been in the black community all along. Is this all political rhetoric against “liberalism” and “socialism” or are some Caucasian people afraid of losing power in a time of black leadership? Some of these same people pretend they love Dr. King and even “March on Washington”, but they really do not agree that political and economic progress must be shared by all, for the benefit of all. They are afraid of change... They refuse to give up a little power after cheating millions of people for centuries with inferior education, poor housing, unemployment, and inadequate health care. To try and repeal the Health Care Bill that President Obama passed is just one example of this disguised attack against social and racial justice.

We have the responsibility and privilege to work together and improve the quality of life for our generation and generations to come. We need to continue a legacy of progress that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spearheaded. We need to stay focused and work toward the goals of racial equality for all persons, no matter race, color or creed. We need to take an active role in our communities and in local and national politics. We need to fight against ignorance and poverty until we can stand together as one solid foundation and to once again be an inspiration to rest of the world.

It is easier to praise a man or woman and venerate them than it is to follow in his or her footsteps and continue to do their life’s work. Instead of taking the message and actively applying it to the world, the person becomes idolized and even worshipped. It has happened all throughout history with all kinds of people, the greatest example being Jesus Christ (theology aside). It only took a few centuries before the early Christians became less concerned about fulfilling Christ’s way of life and more focused on the worship of Him. It only took a few more centuries before His followers argued over His divinity and waged wars and killed in His name, instead of remembering His teachings and His life. It is happening more and more with the name, “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr”. We are becoming dependent on him as an icon. We are idolizing him and saying that the work is done. We speak of MLK, the name of our hero, but barely know the sacrifice and the struggle, or respect the fact that we are now the torch-bearers.

Most of us have become stuck in between the lines of “I Have A Dream”, and we are still dreaming. We have not woken up to reality. We have not done enough to continue his legacy. No matter who you are, no matter where you come from, you can do something to fight for social justice... you can do something to improve the lives of the human race. Why not remember Dr. King in an active way, instead of a day off from school or work? We should follow the example of President Obama and others who ask us to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a day of service and demonstrate our hope and faith in the future. H.I.M. Haile Selassie I once said that, “he who is worthy of praise amongst men is the man who, animated by sentiments of justice, perseveres in the way of equity...”. Dr. King was certainly a man worthy of praise. Let us also be men and women worthy of praise. Let us keep striving in order to grow as a nation and as a people.

Stop dreaming and start doing! Rastafari!,
JAHsh

“Justice for black people will not flow into society merely from court decisions nor from fountains of political oratory. Nor will a few token changes quell all the tempestuous yearnings of millions of disadvantaged black people. White America must recognize that justice for black people cannot be achieved without radical changes in the structure of our society. The comfortable, the entrenched, the privileged cannot continue to tremble at the prospect of change in the status quo...” – Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Hand Of God, Part II

2011-01-07T21:50:00.001-05:00

Hand Of God, Part II

A new day had dawned and it was time
That I began ascending toward Zion
High above the murky mires and valleys
That I had once roamed in my distress
Yet His Gracious Hand delivered me
And He then filled me with love and said
"Now you are a light unto the world
Shine in the darkness so that all may see
And never hide yourself under a bushel"
So I went forth to follow His Majesty

The road proved to be rocky and steep
But faith helped me to find the way
Through tight passages and sharp peaks
Climbing, I heard cries from behind me
And His voice said, "Be my Hands..."
I turned to see so many people who had
Been guided by JAH lamp within my soul
And so I pulled, as my Father had told
But while reaching out I started to slip
When I recognized the grip saving me

And behold, I was held in His embrace
It felt to me like my parents
He said to I, "Love created you"
It felt to me like my siblings"
He said to I, "Love grows with you"
It felt to me like my neighbors
He said to I, "Love lives with you"
It felt to me like my lover
He said to I, "Love comforts you"
And behold, I could feel JAH Love within me

JMC
1/7/11
(c) 2011

January 7th is “Lidet”, or the “Birth of Iyesus Kristos (Jesus Christ/Yeshua Ha'Mashiach)”. Iyesus came as the Light of the World to glorify the Father. He said for us to follow him and shine our light in the same way and manifest love, so that we may bring His children out of the darkness. I give thanks for the Love of Jehovah through His Son, Iyesus. As a Rastafari, I see this also in the personality of King Selassie I. This love however is also ever present in my life through my family, friends, and companions. Light begets light... Give thanks to the Savior, The Light. I&I Rastafari do the work of His Hands.

Strive And Be Alive

2010-12-31T22:50:00.000-05:00

It is often during the approach of New Year’s Eve that people begin to reflect on what has been achieved during the past year, or sometimes simply what events have taken place… which are not always pleasant. This is why we focus mainly on the achievements, the milestones we have passed on our journey along Life’s Road and that reassure us of the direction that we are going in. Life is in constant motion. In fact, a philosopher (possibly Heraclitus) once said that, “the only thing constant in life is change”. This is true, and you can see it two ways. You can take it that everything you build and pursue is fleeting (which is rather depressing), or you can take it to understand that life is alive… life is in motion, which means that it is never in the same place at the same time.

Think of life as water. This is not an unfamiliar analogy since we need water to sustain life. Even in the Bible it has been said to drink from the “water of life”. If you are thirsty and you come across water, you always check to see if the water is flowing or if the water is stagnant. Stagnant water stays in one place, it is still and collects debris, bacteria, and algae within it, which can make someone very sick, and which makes the water pointless to drink. However, consider a stream or a river. The water in these systems are constantly moving, from a mountain or hill down through miles of terrain, and either connecting to another larger river, or emptying into a sea or ocean. The water is in steady motion as it flows across rocks, fallen trees, and any other obstacles. Powerful currents ebb their way through earth, cutting natural courses into the land that they travel over. Ultimately this water arrives at a destination and becomes one with it, fulfilling its purpose in movement. This is the type of water you drink from. This is also the type of water you rely on for transportation, or to generate power… it is life-giving in a multitude of ways.

In the Scriptures, Psalms 1:3 describes of being like a tree planted by the rivers of water, bearing fruit in due season. This too is where we should plant ourselves. As a river brings fresh water, nourishment, and energy, so should our lives. If we are firmly planted and rooted in soil beside a flowing river, then our seeds can follow along with the stream. So as the water carries our seeds and hopes along so should life’s journey progressively move toward the goals that we want to achieve. It should be able to break down the barriers set before it, it should be able to follow the tried and true paths that it has traveled before, or when they are no longer practical, to then carve out its own course through new terrain. If we do not move, time still passes. We can choose to either go with the flow and grow or to stagnate and evaporate. Our streams of life move toward their destination by the force of striving.

In just a year’s time I can see how my own river of life has progressively moved through the topography of 2010. Just as a river rarely runs a straight course, such is life as well, full of surprises. Yet, around every bend there are new exploits and there are new open ways to reach the goals that we strive for. As many people do, I have goals for my life. Sometimes these goals seem distant and far off, but by faith we can stay in pursuit of them, or at least when we have the strength to realize this. I cannot believe the many good things that have come my way in 2010. I have ensured the stability of my career in education during a time when so many people have concern over their jobs. I have achieved a new level of health and physical fitness that I have not had in years. I have found a new home to buy, and I am in the process of closing and having a new place to live. Finally, I have found a woman who completes me, one that is worthy to be called my Empress, and who I can see a great future ahead for us. These were not expected things, but they were things hoped for. As long as we are progressive in our mentality, each of us can make our way to our goals as we ebb and flow through the daily terrain just to get there. I am still in motion, moving in order to make progress on what has come and to gain new ground until my river runs into the sea. My faith propels me and keeps my river from running dry. If we want it badly enough, and we believe in its purpose then we can cut through the difficulties and doubts that we encounter and make it to where we are destined to be. Each of us can do this if we remember to strive.

We must strive to be alive; we must stay in constant motion. Be active in your life’s journey. Be progressive and continue to flow just as a living stream of water. Bear these things in mind as a new year begins. I wish everyone a Happy and Blessed New Year… and treat each day as a new year and a new time, lush with new opportunities and new courses for your river to run.

Strive & Be Alive,
JAHsh

Pon Di Flagship

2010-12-21T22:50:00.001-05:00

Pon Di Flagship

Pon di flagship
Pon di flagship, lawd
Ting nah cool
If ah fool run di flagship

If di head ah di ship cyan steer
Den di whole ah crew muss fear
Rock an hazard, him haffi clear
So mi seh, its time fi commandeer

Di captain cyan stand di scrutiny
Him seh dat he alone is di authority
Him so blind dat he just cyan see
So di whole ship ready fi ah mutiny

Pon di flagship
Pon di flagship, lawd
Ting nah cool
If ah fool run di flagship

Too much at stake, he cyan navigate
Leading his vessel into dire straits
Could never relate to one shipmate
Cyan sail wid too much deadweight

How did he ever get inna di position
Who di one who drive dat decision
Time come fi mek a mission revision
Or fool go run flagship inna collision

Pon di flagship
Pon di flagship, lawd
Ting nah cool
If ah fool run di flagship

JMC
12/21/10
(c) 2010

Frame Of Mind

2010-12-08T22:30:00.001-05:00

Frame Of Mind

I can fit her into any picture frame
Snapshots taken by my mind's eye
Where I can look through and recall
Memories not yet created but fated
To occur within our brightly lit future

I can see photos of captured moments
She is standing hand-in-hand with me
Could be in Accra, Ghana or Rome, Italy
But what matters is she somehow has
Found her way into my life each day

I can see us when the camera lens focus
Together, experiencing what will come
An ordinary day or a great celebration
I can visualize her in my life all the time
She is the picture in my frame of mind

JMC
12/8/10
(c) 2010

Honey Bums

2010-12-07T21:35:00.004-05:00

Honey Bums

Now that I have my honey
My whole life is so sweet
But they see it and come
Out from hidden corners
Trying to sink their teeth
Into my fresh honeycomb
Yes they suddenly appear
As if they hear happiness
Come alive in my beehive
Of which I am the keeper
Eager to taste the goodness
That was made just for me
Inspiring jealousy in those
Who only beg for my honey

JMC
12/7/10
(c) 2010

My Makeda

2010-11-30T22:45:00.004-05:00

My Makeda

I, King Solomon, have found my Makeda
A virtuous woman with nuff good behavior
Tell Mama, Papa, and all ah my neighbor
Come watch me jump for joy just like David

Plenty princesses came to my palace from outta road
With intentions to have me worship silver and gold
But the Rastaman could never be bought nor sold
JAH tell me seh, never go where all dem pagans go
They came by the dozens just to confuse my mind
To take away my I-sight and leave me for blind
My world would fall apart in just a matter of time
So I had to move forward and leave them all behind

I, King Solomon, have found my Makeda
A virtuous woman with nuff good behavior
Tell Mama, Papa, and all ah my neighbor
Come watch me jump for joy just like David

Delilah she told I-man fe go chop off all ah mi locs
Or else she’d make me sleep outside pon the hard rocks
She never loved I-man for my heart or my thoughts
So she stifled my strengths and pointed out all my faults
Jezebel, I knew well, still I could never please her at all
Only kicked me down when I tried so hard to stand tall
She was scheming to see me and my whole kingdom fall
The woman was too dangerous, I couldn’t take it at all

I, King Solomon, have found my Makeda
A virtuous woman with nuff good behavior
Tell Mama, Papa, and all ah my neighbor
Come watch me jump for joy just like David

My Makeda came along and she passed each of the tests
She’s full of qualities like wisdom, patience, and kindness
There’s no stress like the rest, I confess that I’m blessed
Yes, she’s my Queen Majesty, she’s my royal empress
In a faraway land, the sun gave her a black complexion
A long journey brought her straight toward my direction
She must have been fashioned for me with this intention
She's worthy to rule beside me, this destiny was chosen

I, King Solomon, have found my Makeda
A virtuous woman with nuff good behavior
Tell Mama, Papa, and all ah my neighbor
Come watch me jump for joy just like David

JMC
11/30/10
(c) 2010

Giving Thanks

2010-11-25T23:50:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving Day is a familiar American holiday, even to those who may not be Americans. Everyone comes together with their family and friends, feasting on food, and sharing each other’s company with time away from work (if you are fortunate enough to do so). I do enjoy Thanksgiving for the opportunity of spending that quality time with loved ones and enjoying the things that we may usually take for granted. Yet I have always thought that by having this particular holiday, we sometimes limit the true scope of how much we should be constantly thankful for, as opposed to just this one time of the year. The truth is that each time we rise up from our sleep in the morning, we should then give thanks for a new day. When we go to sleep in the evening, then we should give thanks for the day that we had. We could easily list all of the hundreds of simple things that happen in between that deserve our thanks. I have the usual things that I give thanks for every day, but this November I am especially blessed in ways that I could not have foreseen even at the beginning of the month. In fact, I am still so amazed that I have a hard time taking it all in and I can barely write about what I’m feeling and why I’m feeling it, but I would have to describe it as miraculous.

It is good to humble ourselves and have a thankful heart in all things, but it is only human for us to also want certain particular things fitting for ourselves. People go about expressing those personal desires of ours in different ways, but they dwell within us either way. Though we may have wants, it doesn’t mean that we must be selfish in our pursuit of them. All we need to do is have some faith and ask for it. I have very much to be thankful for today because the petitions of my heart have been answered when I least expected it. Without going into much detail on what that may be, I will say that they are both big changes of special importance in my life... things that I have long hoped for. Strangely enough, when big blessings happen so suddenly it can leave us awestruck, this includes the very good things that come our way... it is out of the ordinary and we often have trouble processing and receiving such things. However, truth and reality do not always fit into conventions. When we understand this concept, we can move forward without anxiety and accept what has been put before us.

It is hard for me to remember a time when I have been happier, and I am confident that life can only become better for me. The cornerstones are being laid down now and helping me to create a solid foundation for the future. I am excited and filled with joy because these changes are such a powerful and positive message coming from The Almighty, an assurance that my faith is not in vain and that good things come to those who wait patiently for them. There is a due season for everything. No one can rush through the winter just to reach spring and summer. Simply put, it comes when the right time comes. For me, the right time has come for these particular occurrences in my life. More proper times will come for my future endeavors. What will happen next? How will these new and amazing blessings develop?... I am so excited to find out. I will also specifically share about them in my future writings when the time is right, but for today I just wanted to share the vibes. So, I am giving thanks! JAH knows that this is a very special Thanksgiving for me!

I will conclude with these simple thoughts. If you have some faith, then the things that you hope for will come your way... somehow, some way, at some time. Also, be prepared to recognize and accept these things when they do finally come. You never know what is in store for you, and you never know how it will actually manifest. Life has its many surprises and you’ll be surprised by how many good things you’ll encounter along the journey if you think positive and keep an open mind. Never give up, and never stop giving thanks for life and its abundance!

Give Thanks Always,
JAHsh

Like The Seasons

2010-11-15T23:45:00.003-05:00

Like The Seasons

When the snows thaw, so does she
After months away, she returns to me
Casually as if it was to be expected

She opens as a thirsty blossom does
Ever softly telling me how she was
Longing for me to come till the earth

From morning light until night, I labor
Lovingly tending to her every last acre
Toiling in the sunny heat of her passion

But her mind changes with harvest time
All affection withers away on the vine
My crops are lost during her first frost

She comes and goes like the seasons
Leaving me to examine the reasons
For enduring another winter of her love
When I should seek warmer climates
Where my seeds will grow year 'round
In ground where true love may be found

JMC
11/15/10
(c) 2010

When We Were Soldiers

2010-11-11T21:25:00.001-05:00

When We Were Soldiers

Maybe it was the innate inclination
Seemingly present in all young boys
Or perhaps it was the moment that
While playing games in the basement
We laid our eyes upon our Grandpa's
Olive drab, wool army service cap
Above coats up on a closet shelf
The leather visor and brass insignia
Pristine and clean, set aside from
Another era that we had never seen

My brothers and I spent many hours
Over at our grandparents' house
But the army hat was a new discovery
It beckoned us from their basement
Giving us an itch as if this piece
Of uniform was some transformative
Relic that would change us all from
Boys into the men seen in WWII movies
So finally, with his permission we
Took turns wearing Grandpa's old hat

We quickly enlisted into fascination
There was more beyond that closet door
Next, Grandpa allowed us to use his
Heavy steel helmet along with the
Army belt and its aluminum canteen
Our Dad too lent us some of the things
From his days as a Marine in Vietnam
We put on khaki and green garrison caps
With his knapsack and issued tee-shirts

This was much more than those plastic
Green men we'd set on the floor and
Shoot elastic bands at while peeking
Above paper tents and plastic jeeps
Now we ourselves seemed down there
Dressed up in our own father's gear
Frozen in some pose while waiting
In those uniforms, like a combatant
Ready to cross over the enemy's lines
The soldier's life vivid in our minds

We were an absurd mishmash of troops
As we three would dig in our garage
To dress in camouflage and sneakers
Along with bright yellow and blue
Fisher-Price binoculars dangling
From our necks like strange dog-tags
One of us would awkwardly wear the
Steel helmet, bobbling on their head
Another would just wear its inner liner
And we had many hats to choose from

Naturally, being the eldest found me
Usually in command of the other boys
We would set out with our toys and
Whoever was the lucky one would use
Our uncle's old BB gun, shooting air
At whoever would dare attack our hidden
Fortress in the gully behind our home
We'd roam the woods, drawing crude maps
Planning ambushes on imaginary enemies
And occasionally on our own neighbors

During the summer months we'd spend
Hours in the hot sun, running through
Underbrush and thorns, hiding in trees
Drinking swigs of the tinny tasting
Water from our Grandpa's old canteen
Until we had to come in and get clean
So Mom would allow us to eat our dinner
We did this until we grew older and the
Movies and video games soon replaced
The times we chased each other outside

I will always remember those days
When we were soldiers, playing games
Fighting imaginary backyard battles
Because our Dad and our Grandpa had
Already fought the real ones for us
Decades before, in wars far from home
And though we played in their uniforms
We never once stepped into their boots
Because they were generals we'd salute
In those days when we were soldiers

JMC
11/11/10
(c) 2010

Livicated to my Dad and my Grandpa, both veterans:
Robert L. Curzan, USMC, Vietnam War
Edmond Gioielli, US Army, World War II

Endorphin Orphan

2010-11-06T23:15:00.002-04:00

Endorphin Orphan

It had touched my sole
The surface beneath
Where my feet found
Poise in New Balance
And moving forward
I opened up the gaits
Freeing the wild beast
That was now swiftly
Piercing through me
A living lightning bolt
Firing within my limbs
I was finally aware that
It was me here with my
Dreadlocks flying behind
Exercising away demons
With speeds to leap all of
The hurdles set before me
Sweat running off my brow
I have seen how I could go
Further still and conquer
The miles of trials ahead
So, like Hermes, I now soar
To bring forth the message
That I’ve taken the road home
No more an endorphin orphan

JMC
11/6/10
(c) 2010

The Elect Of JAH

2010-11-02T22:30:00.002-04:00

Today is Election Day in the United States. This year, it happens to fall on Coronation Day, marking the 80th Anniversary of the crowning of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I. The occasion offers an interesting contrast to behold. On one end, you have the game of politics. Although the idea and practice of democracy is something that the United States upholds, promotes, and has shared with the world, it is an imperfect system and has lost much of its splendor especially during the past decades. Dirty campaigning, unfulfilled promises, the shameless spending of millions of dollars, and the partisan political rhetoric have all contributed to the tainted image of American government and free elections. Even President Barack Obama, who was swept into office on a tide of hope, is not without criticism from some of his original followers, whether it is warranted or not. Ultimately the political system seems to consume all good intentions. On the other end, you have the coronation of a king from an ancient lineage, a theocratic monarchy inherited from King David and his son King Solomon. According to Scripture, this monarchy was established by the Most High Himself. However, the lineage of kings has not been a perfect one either. In fact, one only needs to read the accounts of David and Solomon in the Bible and Kebra Nagast to see contradictions between their conduct and their role as anointed kings of Israel, the nation of JAH’s chosen people. Yet, an everlasting covenant was given to David, an eternal promise to his seed that they would be the Kings of Israel and the custodians of God’s Throne as long as there is a sun and moon in the sky (Psalms 89). This is what is called the Davidic Covenant: that promise that the seed of David would endure through every generation, and that the sovereign tribe of Israel would be Judah. H.I.M. Haile Selassie I was crowned on this day 80 years ago as the 225th royal descendant in the line of Solomon. So today, these lines converge to a point where the democratic system of government, originated in ancient Athens, adopted and improved throughout time up to the present United States is juxtaposed with the crowning of King Selassie of the Ethiopian Royal Family, the Davidic monarchy of the Tribe of Judah. We have the meeting of the elect of the people versus the Elect of JAH. As for me... I choose the Elect of JAH.

I make a bold statement here, but it is a statement of Faith. Some may ask me why in this day and age would I support and follow a monarchy that claims to be the rightful rulers of Earth. After all, many kingdoms throughout history have done the same, like Britain and France, holding to the concept of divine right. However, the Ethiopian Royal Family is the only set of people on Earth capable of tracing their lineage to Solomon and David. Others have tried to make that connection, especially after adopting Judeo-Christendom. Yet, the ancient tradition and record that Ethiopia and the text of the Kebra Nagast speaks of manifests this Truth. Even so, some may then ask why the Solomonic lineage of Ethiopian kings should be significant even if it is true. However, if it was not important, then why in the Bible did the gospels of Matthew and Luke go through the lineage and genealogy of Jesus Christ up until David just to prove that Yeshua (Jesus) was of King David’s seed? If this lineage indicated that part of the Scriptures were fulfilled in the birth, death and resurrection of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach, the “Son of David”, then this lineage is also important to continue through Solomon, his son Menelik I or Bayna-Lehkem (by Makeda, the Queen of Sheba) up to Haile Selassie I and even to his grandson, H.I.H. Zere Yacob, because of the Davidic Covenant which did not end after Christ’s coming... since its promise was eternal. In a mystical and spiritual sense, Jesus Christ was king on David’s throne, but not physically, not until “he whose right it is” or “Shiloh”, or in other words the Second-Advent of Christ shall receive the throne after the kingdom governed by one of David’s seed is no more. Even traditional Christians uphold this belief that Jesus Christ will return and sit on Israel’s throne in the judgment. So if the descendants of David are still present in the Royal Family of Ethiopia, and the sun still shines and the moon still glows, and Iyesus Kristos has not yet come again in His Second Advent to judge the wickedness and evil of this world in the Armageddon, then that means the Davidic Covenant still exists... and King Selassie I’s coronation represented the modern continuation of that promise and the foreshadowing of Christ’s return through the works and divinity of His Majesty. I also believe that Selassie I was not just another Davidic/Solominic king, but also truly fulfilled his role as Israel’s King and manifested the Spirit of Christ. H.I.M.’s kingship was the restoration of light and overstanding from the House of David, he was the Elect of JAH to represent Him to all of humanity and he loosed the Seven Seals.

Just yesterday I wrote a reasoning on Dr. Vernon Carrington, the Prophet Gad, who’s Earthstrong comes the day right before Coronation Day. Brother Gad’s testimony is symbolic in a similar way to how Marcus Garvey’s prophetic declaration of an African sovereign before Selassie I’s coronation had called ones to Rastafari. Gadman had aligned Rastafari doctrine with his Orthodox teachings supported by the Scriptures and with what H.I.M. Haile Selassie Himself declared. Rather than one of the traditional Rastafarian beliefs that His Majesty was the Second-Advent of Christ, Bro. Gad said that Selassie I was “the same Spirit but different flesh” and mentioned that King Selassie was the “man of the hour” in this time. He shared insight into the importance of the Davidic Throne, which many Rastas at the time did not fully overstand, and most Christians neglected. Gadman even made many of his teachings public during a radio interview in which he distinguished between Haile Selassie I and Jesus Christ. The Prophet Gad was a vital component to the Rastafari philosophy, especially after H.I.M. was withdrawn from us in his physical manifestation. In overstanding the fullness of Selassie I, one can realize that the Solominic Dynasty continues and with it the hope of restoration of the Ethiopian Monarchy and JAH Kingdom on Earth. Leaders within the Twelve Tribes of Israel such as Karl Phillpotts Naphtali have continued to carry on the Orthodox teachings, especially that of the Davidic Covenant. Selassie was the 225th descendant of Solomon, but it continues... Amha Selassie, the 226th, Zere Yacob... 227th... until Shiloh come, Rastafari can’t done.

Ultimately human government will fail, because we as humans fail. Just look at all the dirty corrupt politicians looking for a vote to get into office. Even many of the kings of Israel and Judah after the death of Solomon and the division of his kingdom practiced idolatry and did not serve JAH faithfully, particularly those that were not of the Ethiopian line of Menelik I. It goes to show that mankind may fail, but JAH will never fail, and neither will His plan. He will always fulfill His promise, and that was seen in the divine Messianic Personage of His Imperial Majesty when he was crowned as the Elect of JAH in Addis Ababa, November 2, 1930. So, on this Election Day I give thanks for the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Elect of God, Defender of the Faith, and Light of the World... Emperor Haile Selassie I! I vote for Earth’s Rightful Ruler! JAH lives through the personality of His Imperial Majesty and the descendants of the Ethiopian Royal Family. The Lion of the Tribe of Judah hath prevailed.

“I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David, my servant: Thy seed will I establish forever, and build my throne to all generations. Selah” – Psalms 89: 3-4

“The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gather of the people be” – Genesis 49: 10

Long Live the King of Kings!,
JAHsh

Enlargeth Gad

2010-11-01T23:15:00.006-04:00

Greetings in the Most Precious & Divine Name of our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ who has in this day revealed Himself to us in the Wonderful Personality of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I.

Greetings through the Orthodox Faith, not a faith of writs or rites, vows, nor laws, but an inward function of the heart, acquired through a Mystical Incorporation, or Unity in One, in plain words to be Born Again.

Greetings through the Twelve Tribes of Israel, which was once lost and scattered abroad, but has now been founded on the island of Jamaica since 1968 by Our Beloved Prophet, Brother Gad, and now functioning internationally!

Greetings also in the Ethiopian Royal House of David now being represented by Our Beloved Crown Prince Zere Yacob Asfa Wossen Haile Selassie I. We pray for the Restoration of the Monarchy! Selassie I!

The words above are the official greetings of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, the Rastafari mansion, or organization, which was founded by Dr. Vernon Carrington Gad, known by his followers as Gadman or Prophet Gad. Today, November 1st , is the Earthstrong of the beloved Gadman. Although he no longer trods the earth in flesh, his works and teachings will endure.

In Rastafari, there is a central unifying concept which mostly revolves around Emperor Haile Selassie I, Marcus Garvey and the idea of African liberation, but the interpretation of these personalities and other tenants within the movement vary from Rasta to Rasta, especially those within one of the major mansions. For instance, the Bobo Shanti Rastas praise Edward Emmanuel along with Haile Selassie I and Marcus Garvey as part of their trinity. Nyahbinghi Rastas may hold one of the bongo elders or ones like Leonard Howell as the next central figure. However, I as a Twelve Tribes Rastafarian see Gadman as the next most influential person in Rastafari.

A reasoning about Prophet Gad has been a long time coming. Although I never actually got the opportunity to meet the man, he has had one of the greatest spiritual influences on me. I came to know of Gad soon after a shift in my life, when soul-searching, prayer, and the love and care of bredrens and sistrens brought me to a new overstanding. By the age of 22, I was seriously starting my trod as a Rastafari. My approach to Rastafari has partly to do with the reason why I crossed paths with the Twelve Tribes of Israel. I was raised as a practicing Catholic, had a good education, and for the most part used my intelligence. I had a keen spiritual sense and strong faith, but also a logical and scholarly way of thinking. That same sense allowed me to closely study the history of Africa, of Ethiopia, and the Bible. As I started my trod, many things in Rastafari harmonized with me, but some did not. Certain things I could not sight because of what I knew historically and biblically, and because of my own identity and ethnicity. Perhaps I was approaching certain Rastafari reasonings from a different angle, perhaps I was not accepting it esoterically or allegorically (I did eventually expand past my “comfort” zones). Either way, I was seeking to continue my trod, but find ones who I could identify with and grow with as I went on my journey. My close bredren spoke of the Twelve Tribes, I heard of the Twelve Tribes in the reggae music I listened to, I came across reasonings in books and online. The spirit of Truth and of acceptance vibed with me and more and more I sought out to find out about this Twelve Tribes of Israel organization within the Rastafari movement. I began to follow many of Gad’s teachings but I soon wanted to formally be a part of it. Eventually I got a telephone number for the closest headquarters... I called, explained I wanted to visit and who I was, and I was warmly encouraged to come. By the time I was 23, I had officially become a member of TTOI, and perhaps worried my family that I was joining an obscure cult, but I eventually had time to explain all of that too, and Dr. Vernon Carrington’s teachings helped. I suppose I stepped right in his footpath.

Vernon Carrington had been a member of the Ethiopian World Federation in Jamaica, when he had a revelation and began to closely read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. He started to identify with one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel spoken about in the Old Testament, the Tribe of Gad. Eventually he saw it as his duty to reunite Israel which was scattered throughout the world and his message brought him many followers in Trench Town, Kingston. He told others to read the Bible cover to cover, just like he did, and seek answers for themselves. Gadman brought something unique to the Rastafari movement in the late 1960’s. Something that earned him the criticism of many others within the Rasta community. His teachings were quite unorthodox compared to the traditional Nyahbinghi roots anchored in the philosophies of the “Holy Piby” and Leonard Howell’s “The Promise Key”. Many Rastas knew and followed Scripture, but mostly Genesis, Revelation and the Psalms. Because the Bible was seen as the tool of the oppressors, much of it was forsaken. Yet Bro. Gad said it was all important to read the entire Bible because the message within remained true.

Gadman began to fill in a gap that had grown between Rastafari and Christianity, and in actuality also the very words and identity of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I. He encouraged literacy and education, having followers read the Bible a chapter a day along with the speeches of Haile Selassie I and Marcus Garvey. He also asked followers to get a Metaphysical Bible Dictionary and to read the daily newspaper. Many Rastas did not (and still do not) read the utterances of Selassie or Garvey for themselves. Many were not literate in the Bible outside of certain passages. Things are mostly communicated orally and musically in Rastafari, but Gad was saying for people to check things for themselves and seek Truth by using their own intelligence and not the words of others... even those of himself. So with a firm foundation of to build on, Prophet Gad continued to reveal more teachings. Brother Gad taught that by reading the entire Bible, one would find the relevance of both the Old and New Testaments and recognize that Jesus Christ was the savior, and also that the Spirit of Christ could be found in the personality of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I. One would be able to overstand this concept through the eternal promises to David, the Davidic Covenant which so many Christians neglect to this day. He taught that anyone could identify with the Twelve Tribes of Israel according to their month of birth. Each tribe represented a part of the body of Christ and had its own faculties and tendencies along with their own designated color.

If being saved by Jesus Christ’s name was not enough of a shock to the Rasta community, the revelations would continue to cause a disturbance. He said “whosever will may come”, and rather than deal with race, he spoke of humanity as the decedents of Noah’s three sons: Ham, Shem and Japheth. Therefore all were welcome and all were bredren, there was no racial discrimination. Gad reminded Rastafari people that women stood next to man as equals and were represented in the organization. Although there was a lot of talk about Mama Africa and Queen Omega, women had a history of being considered, or at least treated, as second-class in the traditional patriarchy of Rastafari. In Twelve Tribes, women had important roles and positions. Gad taught that faith was not of writs or rites, and therefore there was no doctrine of race, sex, food, hair, smoking or holidays... rather ones were saved by grace and adherence to certain practices was optional. Gad encouraged ones to act as princes and princess and to carry themselves as royalty. He taught that marriage was good and important for raising families, and that proper burials were not a problem because man was flesh. These are things that some traditional Rastas have avoided. Gad taught ones to spread the message of unity through music and TTOI began to host stage shows and dances, and record reggae artists. In fact some of the biggest reggae superstars were Twelve Tribes members: Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Freddie McGregor, Judy Mowatt, Sister Carol, Junior Byles, Brigadier Jerry, Israel Vibration, Denroy Morgan and Morgan Heritage... and many others. The message still continues in the words of other artists, for instance Luciano and Messenjah Selah, who as far as I know may not officially be Twelve Tribes members but adhere to many of the concepts.

Prophet Gad stressed the importance of organization. He began formal membership, had a system of succession, and centralized headquarters in Jamaica and then wherever the mansion was established. Dr. Vernon Carrington’s message spread internationally to twenty houses in eighteen countries all over the world: Jamaica, Ethiopia, Ghana, Grenada, Australia, New Zealand, England (Manchester & London), Barbados, Sweden, Suriname, Cayman, USA (New York & California), St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, Kenya, Germany and Guyana. Members would have one voice with uniform greetings and banners (red, gold and green hats). Gadman also spoke of being diplomatic and cooperate with authority (within reason of course). Headquarters display the flags of Ethiopia and the local country, a photo of the local head of state is within the HQ (in America that included Bush). The concept is in line with the Bible in accordance to the words of Yeshua (Jesus) who said to give unto Caesar what is Caesar’s. Therefore Twelve Tribes in non-political and peaceful and does not set out to stirrup conflict.

Brother Gad stressed the importance of repatriation back to Ethiopia. While this is a central tenant of Rastafari, Gad and the Twelve Tribes fulfilled this by sending members to live in Shashamane Land and recommended that all of the different mansions and individuals with Rastafari join together there under the Jamaican Rastafarian Development Community. Finally, Gadman showed ones that Selassie’s divinity and anointment are significant because he has prepared David’s throne for Christ’s coming, and called us to rally around Jehovah Throne. He taught ones to recognize that H.I.M. Haile Selassie I designated his son and grandson, Zere Yacob, to succeed the throne and that the Davidic/Solomonic Monarchy of Ethiopia continues beyond Selassie I until Shiloh, the return of Christ comes, because Israel shall never be short of a king or a prophet. The Twelve Tribes has organized benefits for the exiled family where they have attended. So Gadman has united the Twelve Tribes of Israel with the King, both physically and metaphysically.

All of these visions and teachings of Dr. Vernon Carrington, The Prophet Gad, helped bring Rastafari beliefs in order with what is revealed in the Bible and what has been spoken by H.I.M. Haile Selassie I, as well as Marcus Garvey. All of Gadman’s teachings have Biblical compliments... the holy foundation that even His Majesty claimed to glorify and said that all “all the ancient Scriptures were written for Our instruction...”. Gad’s teachings have received criticism and ridicule from other Rastas not willing to accept such things as the fullness of the Bible, or the idea of being saved by grace through Christ, or the inclusion of different nationalities in the unification of Israel. Some have even ridiculed members for being more educated and economically stable, which seems more like resentment. Nevertheless, how can Rastafari people argue with His Majesty? Ultimately Gad’s works reveal the reason why H.I.M. Haile Selassie I is the King of Kings. Twelve Tribes eventually became the largest and most organized of all the Rastafari mansions. The people influenced by Gadman’s revelations are twice as much, even if they don’t realize they are receiving lessons through some of the songs of Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, or Morgan Heritage.

I give thanks to Bro. Gad for what he has shown JAH people. I remember following his advice and when I started reading the Bible a chapter a day even before I joined Twelve Tribes. It took me three and a half years and I gained so much wisdom and knowledge. Although I haven’t read it through again consecutively, I keep the Bible handy at all times. In addition I read the Kebra Nagast and other books taken out of the Bible, like the Book of Enoch. I continued to read the Utterances of His Majesty and the Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey. The greatest thing was that I was not commanded to do a thing, or forced to believe anything. I was only encouraged by Brother Gad and the executive body at TTOI HQ in NY to read the Bible a chapter a day to find the truth for myself. This is the same way Gadman taught his followers, and the same way they are still taught... to cross the bridges in our gaps of understanding and come closer to JAH and the teachings of His Majesty while operating with love and unity. While I am a Twelve Tribes of Israel member, I have also sighted up things outside of the main tenants of the organization... as I am sometimes carried along by the natural mystic of Rastafari, and the Nyahbinghi teachings that go beyond Scripture. However, thanks to Bro. Gad, I always have the firm foundation of Orthodox Faith to stand on, and ultimately the Truth reveals itself in JAH Word.

Our beloved Prophet Gad passed on in 2005. I remember calling the Twelve Tribes HQ in NY to double check if the news was true. I attended a memorial for him at NYC and was wishing I could have gone to Kingston for the gathering of Israel at his funeral. Years later I did reach, and I met Sister Vie (Sister Dinah), Gadman’s wife. It was an honor to meet her and shake her hand at the Twelve Tribes organ in Kingston. I could only express how thankful I was for Bro. Gad’s teachings and how they changed my life and overstanding of my faith. He stopped his breath to save the people... surely there was a prophet amongst us. So, Israel continues to enlargeth Gad!

"And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head." - Deuteronomy 33:20

Long Live The Prophet Gad! Read your Bible a Chapter a Day!

Are You Picking Up?,
JAHsh
Joshua Curzan Simeon

No Jumbie

2010-10-31T23:20:00.001-04:00

No Jumbie

No jumbie could ever be badda than me
Neither vampire or dem dutty duppy
Meh nah fear dem, dem 'fraid ah me
Cause I am protected by the Almighty

Meh nah play in the way of All Souls Day
Only life I promote, not death and decay
One thing I hear all ah di boneheads seh
That "JAH dead", well dem muss be zombie

Dem ting deh lurk in the darkness of night
Come fe tear up my flesh and take a bite
Dem set in, but I already win the fight
JAH stand by my side with a rod of light

Meh come fe tell Satan to go get behind
JAH cast all wickedness out from mi mind
If you come my way, you too will find
No night inna Zion, the sun stay shine

No jumbie could ever try come fi haunt me
Meh nah get tied up by no sort of sorcery
I stay far and wide from di devil pickney
Dem know Rastafari give me the victory

JMC
10/31/10
(c) 2010

Raging Fyah

2010-10-27T21:45:00.002-04:00

Raging Fyah

I am the ancient fyah that still rages
The same fyah found in the Bible pages
Carried by prophets through the ages
Cast into a furnace by Babylonian sages

Their blazing fire could not burn I
I am protected by the Most High

Amazed faces gaze in awe when out I go
With Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
The fiery judgment only consumes the foe
They must reap heat if its fyah they sow

JMC
10/27/10
(c) 2010

JAH Bless Gregory Isaacs

2010-10-25T22:50:00.002-04:00

October has been a busy month, and I had some writings and reasonings that I planned to take off the back-burner and publish but then all of the sudden I had to put them on hold once again. It is because today, Gregory Isaacs, the Cool Ruler has trod on. I had been meaning to write another tribute to Lucky Dube, whose life was tragically taken several years ago this month, and I never did pay a proper tribute to reggae greats who have passed since that time like Vivian "Yabby You" Jackson and Sugar Minott. Not to diminish those artists lives and achievements, but when such a huge figure as Gregory passes everything seems to stop.

Gregory Isaacs was one of the last giants left from reggae's Golden Age. His friend, the legendary Dennis Brown passed on a decade ago, Bob Marley of course, Jacob Miller, Joseph "Culture" Hill, Peter Tosh. While there are many great reggae artists that are still with us from that era like Burning Spear, Bunny Wailer, John Holt, and Freddie McGregor (just to name a few!), Gregory Isaacs will be sorely missed because his persona and music was so original. I remember when I first heard Gregory's music... it struck me to the core. His vocals were like nothing I had heard before, a laid-back smooth style with a characteristic nasal voice. Everything he touched with the mic seemed to shine, whether it was his Lover's Rock, Roots & Culture, or a sufferer's anthem. The music seemed to transport me somewhere. I would put an album of Gregory on and everything would be alright... If I was heartbroken over a girl, he spoke to that with "Front Door", "Sad To Know", and "Lonely Soldier". If I was playing it cool and calm, "Stranger In Town", "Top Ten", and "Night Nurse". If I was feeling like militantly confronting Babylon with some serious rockers, then I played tunes like "Universal Tribulation", "Storm", "Poor And Clean". Those are just a few of the massive amount of tunes he sang and produced over the years through his label African Museum, because to say that Mr. Isaacs was a prolific artist is an understatement. I have a good collection, but there are certainly amazing songs that I've overlooked and hope to discover just because of the immense size of what is out there and because I did not grow up during his prime and always have to look backward into his career. I also remember when I first saw footage of Gregory Isaacs from different documentaries like "Land of Look Behind" and the movie, "Rockers". The man was smooth. He would strut out in his suit with his dreads tucked into a brimmed hat, the Roots Radics would back him with some wicked riddim, and then he would sing away... women and men dancing to the tunes, a party in the ghetto to let the people forget their troubles... yeah the Cool Ruler!

I was fortunate enough to see Gregory Isaacs perform live a couple of times. Once at a big stage show with other classic reggae artists of his era, and another time up close at a small venue where I took some great photos. I can't remember for certain, but I think I got to shake his hand. To be truthful, his performances left something to be desired. Age and ailments took a toll on Gregory's body and his distinct voice, just as in his most recent recordings. It was still there, but not the same... not the clear and cool vocals from the 70's and 80's, not the same range, not the same charisma. Nonetheless, it was still Gregory... the legend. Nobody can, or ever will, duplicate that sound. He was no longer in his prime, but it was the same man and I could appreciate that fact after the many years of listening to his tunes and recognizing him as a reggae great.

So, after a long journey and a battle with cancer, Mr. Isaacs has trod on. The last years were rough. The paper's said he was 59, and I thought he was older... he sure looked and seemed older, but he had some struggles in life that affected his health. I went to check my bredren who grew up in Kingston and he swore that Gregory had to be older than 59 also, but the Jamaican newspapers had his birthday and mentioned dates in his early singing career. Even though Gregory has passed, his music will never die, and neither will his memory among fans all over the world, especially in his native Jamaica. He was a man who never forgot his roots and always gave back to the community where he grew up in West Kingston. Despite his international success and legendary status, he was still Gregory Isaacs the rude-bwoy from the ghetto. Although he sighted up Rastafari, he wasn't the most spiritual or conscious, he also didn't always make the best choices in life. Rather, he represented reality and was a little bit of everything rolled up in one bundle... the voice of the sufferer in Jamaica, who struggled to rise above. Give thanks to the life and music of Gregory Isaacs, a reggae singer like no other! JAH Bless the Cool Ruler! There will always be a place in the dancehall for you!

JAHsh

July 15, 1951 - October 25, 2010

"Some of the men will buy you diamonds and pearls
And those are the things that mean a lot to some girls
But all I have is love, darling, all I have is love

Now they will take you places that you wanna go
And show you things that you've never seen before
But all I have is love, darling, all I have is love"

- Gregory Isaacs "All I Have Is Love"

An American Tale

2010-10-11T23:15:00.001-04:00

I can remember when I was a youth, in pre-school and kindergarten, learning about Christopher Columbus... the Niña, Pinta, and Santa María, his great “discovery” of America, and that the world was round, and such and such. All the children made hats and tunics decorated in white with the red cross, and had telescopes made out of cardboard. The textbooks gave him praises, he would occasionally manifest in TV cartoons or other popular mediums. Then there was the song, “In Fourteen Hundred and Ninety-Two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue...”. Yes this is how it basically was up until high school... well without the singing and costumes and all. The celebratory nature of Columbus and his achievements were embedded in the educational system. Sure, eventually as you grew older you didn’t buy much of it, but at the most Columbus just appeared foolish for thinking he had reached the Far East and other than that he wasn’t too bad of a fellow... just confused, and that was with our hindsight vision. Nobody wanted to tell us that Christopher Columbus was not such a great person after all, that what he did was not such a great thing, and that there was proof of all of this. No, instead we were given cheerful warmhearted Columbus images and songs, diluted history, and a national holiday for the man. There is so much mythology surrounding Columbus, and all of it hides the true nature of things.

First of all, Columbus was not the first to claim that the world was round. This was an idea that already existed for thousands of years by his time, and had been proposed by philosophers and mathematicians of ancient Egypt and Greece. Aristotle reasoned that the earth was round by using observation and Eratosthenes of Alexandria, Egypt had been able to accurately measure the earth’s circumference to within four-percent. Scholars in Ancient India and in the Islamic world (including the African civilizations of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai) continued to use the progressive science and math of the classical civilizations and used this knowledge in their understanding of the world and how to create maps, etc. Even many of the learned scholars of the late Middle Ages in Europe believed that the world was a sphere. The only thing Columbus did was use that knowledge to propose a western route to Asia.

Second, Columbus was not the first to “discover America” as Eurocentric history has suggested. It is widely believed that the Vikings reached mainland North America at least 500 years before Columbus and that they had small settlements in what Leif Eriksson the Norsemen had called “Vinland”, which is today the province of Newfoundland in Canada. Some have proposed that the Chinese admiral, Zheng He, may have reached America 70 years before Columbus by using Chinese maps that already indicated that the continent of North America was known. Evidence of the Chinese in America may have also been found. Finally, according to tradition, Abubakari II, an African emperor from Mali set out to cross the Atlantic with a fleet of ships in 1311. Researchers have been working to uncover evidence of the Africans reaching the Americas shortly after. The interesting thing is that Columbus even wrote about "the presence of Negros there" upon landing on Hispaniola during his 3rd voyage, and that these black traders had given the Amerindians spear points made of "guanine" a gold alloy metal known to be unique to Africans at the time. This may also account for some of the Olmec statues that suspiciously seem to have African features. Nonetheless, whether it was the Africans, Vikings, or Chinese... Columbus was beat. In addition to that, no matter who it was who got there before Columbus, one set of people were there long before... the Amerindians, the tribes of Carib, Arawak, Taino and others who populated the West Indies, and of course the Maya, Aztec, and other indigenous civilizations on the mainland. These people who Columbus would dub the “Indians” (because he swore he was there somewhere in India and the Orient, and never renounced it his entire life) were the first to settle and discover Americas. So, Columbus discovered and claimed an occupied land. In fact, he never touched on the mainland in what is now Mexico until 1498. Moreover, he never set foot on any land that would today be the continental United States. So much for his discovery...

Finally, I save the worst for last. Christopher Columbus was born as Cristoforo Colombo in Genoa, Italy... maybe (some scholars now question his origins) and he became a navigator for Portugal and ultimately Spain, but he was more of a mercenary for hire rather than a heroic explorer. Whatever Columbus’ motives were for making his trans-Atlantic voyage, one thing is for certain... that he was lusting for riches. There is irrefutable evidence. His journal has survived the ages, and in it he had written multiple accounts in regard to his search for gold upon landing. Once he met the Amerindian populations of the islands, he and his crew members would use vicious tactics to try and find gold mines and procure any gold from the native people themselves. He kidnapped and enslaved the indigenous people of the Caribbean and Central America, like the Arawaks and the Carib and used them as a labor force when building settlements and searching for gold. If any of his slaves were caught stealing or lying, parts of their body, especially facial features, were cut off in order to make examples of the rebellious ones. He allowed his crew members to force themselves on the native women, a situation some historians have sugarcoated as “intermarriage”, and to bring back these women from their homelands to Europe. Of course, besides the brutality of conquest, diseases brought by the European sailors wiped out many of the native people. During the four voyages of Columbus, the Amerindian slaves were transported back to Spain on the caravel ships and the ones that didn’t die on the journey were used by the royal family to work in the galleys. In a deal with King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, Christopher Columbus was given territories to govern but he mismanaged them while in constant pursuit of more gold to pay off his debts to investors. At one point he was arrested and sent back to Spain in manacles and chains because he was accused being a cruel governor who frequently used acts of violence not only against the native people, but also the Spanish settlers. Eventually he was given back his freedom, but he lost all of his titles and his reputation. After a final voyage, which included being stranded in Jamaica for a year, he traveled back to Spain and died a fairly wealthy man from all the gold he and his men had initially acquired in Hispaniola. This all may be a little hard to swallow, but look for yourself. You can read Columbus' journal and other primary sources from the period.

Unfortunately, it didn’t end with Columbus. He was just the beginning for what became centuries of genocide and oppression against the native people of the Americas at the hands of the Spanish, Portuguese and later the British, French and Dutch. After the Spanish were successful with their discoveries, the Portuguese were upset so the Pope made Spain and Portugal sign the Treaty of Tordesillas which divided newly and formerly discovered lands amongst them. Spain received the Americas, with the exception of what became Brazil, and the Portuguese received Africa and East India. Eventually the colonial powers had to deal with the problem of too many Amerindians dying from diseases in addition to their cunning ability to hide and thrive in their native lands. So, soon after African slaves are sent over to the New World once the Portuguese began exploiting the African continent. Eventually, after years of exploitation and competition and fighting among European nations, the United States develops in North America. The U.S., a beacon of liberty, expands its borders with the notion of “manifest destiny”, wiping out the American Indians in the process and relegating the survivors to reservations out West. Many of their descendants today suffer from alcoholism, unemployment and a loss of their native traditions. History in a nutshell, a bit oversimplified, but truth is truth. It is the legacy of Columbus.

So, why on earth do we celebrate Columbus Day today? Why did it take me until college to uncover the dirty secrets on Christopher Columbus? Why is it that the only public outcries come from minority groups and not the mainstream? Why did the United States create a holiday in his name, when he didn’t even make it to American soil? It is also the only other American holiday not named after a president besides Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Call me crazy, but I don’t think Columbus deserves such company. Why is Columbus Day also Italian-American Day, especially when his origins and lifestyle are questionable, wouldn’t someone like Garibaldi be a better choice? It makes it hard for me to celebrate that part of my heritage when Columbus is attached to it.

Columbus arriving in the New World changed everything, but is it something to really celebrate? I guess it depends on which side you take. As a teacher, and a historian, I feel obligated to educate people on Columbus as I have done here. There is no use in sugar-coating history... it is full of bloodshed, exploitation, and enslavement, that is a fact no matter what. I wouldn’t be in America if it weren’t for its brutal conquest at the hands of the European explorers. We can’t do anything about that, circumstances bring us to where we presently are, but we can know the truth. As a Rastaman, I also feel that the Truth needs to be explained to the people. Descendants of African slaves in the West Indies have known about the real nature of Columbus for centuries. They were brought over because of him and his arrival, and they replaced that Arawaks and Caribs on the islands, of which there are none left now. Why does this have to be learned from a reggae tune by Burning Spear or Culture and not within a textbook given to the youths? It should be common knowledge, it should be accessible. Ignorance has created more damage to people than the initial act itself because people are powerless without knowledge.

Columbus Day celebrates an American mythology, an American Tale of progress, patriotism, and nationhood. It masks the truth with positive, community oriented spectacles. It subscribes to the belief that Columbus and his European predecessors brought civilization, Christianity, and democracy to the savage and backward American Indians and would later allow all people, including them, to have a better life. Columbus Day belongs in the trash bin along with the idea that the Pilgrims and Native Americans had a lovely Thanksgiving feast, that George Washington never told a lie, and that black slaves had a great time picking cotton on their massa’s plantations. Stop teaching the youths lies and myths, and give them the Truth! The truth will set them free! Christopher Columbus was a damn blasted liad, thief, and murderer. Rasta nuh love Christopher ComeBussUs!

Seek Knowledge!,
JAHsh

Times Ten

2010-10-10T22:10:00.001-04:00

Times Ten

Ten times ten, times ten
Time to stop be comedian
To stand firm and defend
From wolves in sheep pen
Time to chase all of them
Who come pose as a friend
Time to stop watching CNN
And make our own bulletin
Time to go set the trend
Tell all the women and men

Ten times ten, times ten
Time to keep eyes wide open
Since the Christ it has been
Bloodshed and pure problem
And when H.I.M. come again
They never see who JAH send
In time, fools are fools again
They die for want of wisdom
Time to avoid all the heathen
Never bow and never bend

Ten times ten, times ten
Time equal to one millennium
So Rasta rise and chant Amen
Save the lives of the children
Trust no preacher or politician
Because Time will tell on them
Run to the forest and the glen
Babylon time will soon end
Now it’s time that we ascend
Back into the Garden of Eden

JMC
10/10/10
10:10 PM

Tangled Up In You

2010-10-09T23:20:00.002-04:00

Tangled Up In You

No matter what I choose to do
I still get tangled up in you
Pulled in by my heartstrings
Once you want to start things
It makes my love spring up inside
That's when you go push me aside
Not released, yet I'm kept at bay
Until you want to come my way
No, we can’t do that this time
Or I'm afraid I'll lose my mind

Darling, there must be a change
From these cat and mouse games
I give you love, but yours I borrow
It’s here today, but not tomorrow
What a tangled web you weave
I want to go, but just can't leave
Though loving you may be unwise
We're tightly wound by our soul ties
Yes, I really shouldn’t play the fool
But babe, I still get tangled up in you

JMC
10/09/10
(c) 2010

Journey Along Life’s Way

2010-10-04T23:30:00.001-04:00

As I was driving into New York, I couldn’t quite remember how long it had been... somewhere in between too long and awhile ago. Either way, I was happy that I had the opportunity to make the trip because circumstances have been pressuring me lately. I started attending meetings at the Twelve Tribes of Israel back in 2003, and I think my official date of membership at the NY HQ is January 2004. Those were some tumultuous times in my life, but I was trying to find some peace of mind. I was in my young twenties and had gone through my fair share of trials and tribulations of the heart and soul. I had also started my trod with Rastafari about two years prior to that and I was on a quest to mature more in my overstanding of things to find a community that I could take part in and belong to... especially when it sometimes seemed like I was a lonely sheep. The same reason I was driving now, was the same reason I was driving then... for fellowship and renewal.

I remember when I was still living in the neighborhood in Newark as a young man and my good bredren and mentor had often used the language and ideas espoused by the Twelve Tribes in the advice he had given me. It had always resonated with me when we would reason about life and everything within it. The Rastafari trod has many different facets to it, and by that time I had already been exposed to different levels and philosophies within the movement, but the Twelve Tribes vibes always came back to plant a seed within me. Eventually it led me to learn more about the actual Rastafari organization called the Twelve Tribes of Israel, and about Prophet Gad, Dr. Vernon Carrington, TTOI’s founder. I had found and read interviews with Gadman, read books like Bro. Karl Philpotts Naphtali’s “Testimony of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I”, and listened to reggae artists who followed the Twelve Tribes philosophy. I started following Gadman’s teachings, like reading the Bible a chapter a day, along with the utterances of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I and Marcus Garvey. As an educated and tolerant person I embraced the Twelve Tribes teaching on self-reliance, literacy, nondiscrimination and unity, as well as refocusing through a new lens on the Christian faith... a faith that I had nearly abandoned in anger, but found rejuvenation in as a Twelve Tribes Rastafari. After taking it upon myself to follow the guidance of Prophet Gad, and having acquired a strong knowledge of the Scriptures, Ethiopia and His Majesty in the process, the last thing for me to do was sign up, seal up and be a member of the organization that I had studied so fervently. Fortunately Twelve Tribes had a house in New York and I lived close enough to the New York area, so I joined and I attended meetings and functions when I could. Eventually between going to graduate school, and working as a teacher I could not go as often as I liked and time passed. So did Prophet Gad in 2005. I remember attending a special meeting in his remembrance. I never got to meet him, but he changed my life.

Forward back to 2010. It was one of the colder evenings of the year so far, jacket weather. Out of the four quarterly meetings each year, October and April were the easiest for me to attend. I figured if I missed this one, it might be another year of absence for me. I walked to the gates of the HQ, and stepped through. The first time I had been to the NYC House of Twelve Tribes in maybe two years. Since then I had actually been to the “organ”, the original Twelve Tribes HQ in Kingston, Jamaica, on Hope Road just up from Bob Marley’s old home (who was also a TTOI member in his day). There I met with Sangie Davis, a reggae artist and producer for Orthodox Muzik of Twelve Tribes, and amongst other bredrens and sistrens I met Sis. Dinah 1st, Gad’s widow... but the visit there to Hope Road is a story of its own. Now I was here again on Farmers Boulevard in Queens. I walked into the doorway and greeted bredrens and sistrens wearing the “banner”, the red, gold, and green tam that all members wear during official functions. I had mine with me as well, but I passed through proudly with my locks swinging free, as it was the first time I had been there since growing them nearly 2 years ago. I took a look around. The same signs with the tribe names and their colors were across the top hallway wall, pictures of His Majesty and the Royal Family were in their spots, the latest news and communication from other houses was posted. I chatted with a few people and learned that one of the executives, the original overseer of the New York house, repatriated to Shashamane Land, Ethiopia along with his family. I saw some other familiar faces, but they would be missed, especially since I rarely made visits. Yet repatriation is one of the missions of the organization..

A sistren greeted me and I chatted how it had been such a long while since I had come, but how circumstances allowed me to come again tonight. She remarked on how nice it was that I was able to make the journey there and how it was destiny to come back in this time. “Yes Simeon”, she said, “strong of faith!” (I am of the Tribe of Simeon, and faith is one of our tendencies). She also made mention of how it was the anniversary of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I’s 1963 visit to the United States tomorrow (which is today, Oct. 4th) and that in the same way it revealed a natural mystic in my visit. I thought about that. Soon after, the meeting began in the familiar way, Ezekiel 37, and continued with reasonings, financial oversight, and messages to the massive. After a few hours of some empowering words in the company of bredrens and sistrens, the meeting ended with the Ethiopian Anthem. I wish that I could have stayed longer to reason with ones and spend some time at the HQ but I had a 2 hour drive back home and still had to work tomorrow (although not at my usual very early time). On my way out, I chatted with a few more bredrens who urged me to come more often again. I said I would try... and that is my intention. Not just to make the occasional meeting, but to come and just cool out on an occasional Friday evening.

I realized that even just a short time there in the New York house gave me a renewed energy, a renewed sense of self and resistance to the Babylon folly flooding all around me in my daily life. Whatever it is that caused me to set out to the meeting that night, whether it was the shift in my schedule, the mere determination, or the Hand of JAH... I was able to come and complete that journey. Just like His Majesty made his visit to New York and the USA on this date, I also set out to my destination on the eve of that anniversary, and maybe it is that sign for me to strengthen up and find that fervor I did when I had first sighted up Rastafari, along with Gadman and his message to Israel. My good bredren often says to me, “two mountains don’t meet” because I sometimes don’t get to visit with him as much as I like either. Yet, as Rastamen we also both know that everything is in its due time and season. When we journey along life’s way we move in a progressive manner... seeking to advance and improve. A simple journey of 100 miles one October evening has given me some more mileage for the spiritual trod ahead. A little more prayer, a little more study, a little more livication to help me along Life’s Way and give me strength every day! Give thank to JAH! Give thanks to all the bredrens and sistrens who trod together toward One God, One Aim and One Destiny!

More Life,
JAHsh

Nyah Time

2010-09-30T23:40:00.001-04:00

Nyah Time

The drum beat has aligned itself with the heart
It is the call for I&I Rasta to trod out and start
Gathering the earth's nations from every corner
Nyahbinghi, Israel, Bobo, and the Orthodox order
Out from all the cities and also the countryside
Out from Creation, we arrive from every tribe
To come forth with a clean heart and clear mind
Rallying 'round Jehovah throne in the Nyah Time

Binghi drums beckon all to come beside the fire
Where Rasta wait on the elders to speak and inspire
As they give JAH praises with proverbs and psalms
Prayers to endure through the battle of Armagideon
Chanting down Babylon using the Scripture’s words
Natural mystic carried forth by King Solomon's herbs
As a sacramental sign that gives sight to the blind
Rastafari people come forward in this Nyah Time

Groundation keeps I&I stepping to a One Drop vibe
Wisdom has descended through the Breath of Life
Dry bones in the valley are given flesh and sinew
As The Lion of Judah has made all things brand new
So His Children can leave from the belly of the beast
To Addis Ababa, Lalibela and Jerusalem in the East
Satan and all the wicked men must get left behind
The Most High never sleeps during the Nyah Time

JMC
9/30/10
(c) 2010

Marcus, Mark Us

2010-08-17T08:40:00.001-04:00

Marcus, Mark Us

He was born in the beautiful hills of St. Anne's Bay, JA
Until he made his way to Harlem, where he founded the UNIA
Everywhere he traveled, he saw his people were on the bottom
Shut out of opportunities, sharecropping sugar and cotton
He said that before black people could make any real gains
They first had to break loose from all of their colonial chains
The blood stains endorsed by a white Geezus and preacherman
The same system that stole human cargo from the Motherland
So Marcus said to now see God through their unique vision
With a new understanding to reclaim the word Christian

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
Teach the youths what the colors mean
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because the whole world must see
There's no peace until Afrikan Unity

Marcus said look to the East for the crowning of a new king
It was Negus Nagast, H.I.M. Selassie and the Empress Menen
For years he told of the many things left out of his-story
Like Afrikan science and art taught at Timbuktu's university
Black dignity, it was the concept erased by the slave trade
Replaced by Eurocentric eccentrics and their own masquerade
Marcus would not behave, he gave the people the eyes to see
That for hundreds of years they were denied the opportunity
He said education was the equation to end black frustration
So he said rise up, take an occupation and build up a nation

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
So we can live the Afrikan dream
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because the whole world must see
Your words have revealed prophecy

Marcus said the words, One God! One Aim! One Destiny!
A call for all Afrikans to know about their true identity
He said to leave behind Babylon and the westernized mind
Promoting repatriation, he then began the Black Star Line
He said to be self-reliant, and to do things for yourself
To take care of your family, community, and your health
Establish some type of business and accumulate some wealth
Organize and centralize, have racial pride, move and achieve
Fight until the tides of ignorance and doubt begin to recede
Have leaders of your own, because the rest are contemptuous
Marcus said that the Negro is sleeping on his own intelligence

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
Teach the youths what the colors mean
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because all of the world must see
There's no peace until Afrikan Unity

He inspired the freedom fighters, and he led the Garveyites
Among them the first Rastas who fought for truth and rights
He led them in his uniform, gold epaulettes and plumed hat
Like a field marshal taking on Mystery Babylon in full combat
He strived to build up Jamaica and the Afrikans in the West
Then take them back to Afrika where they could live the best
His opinions and philosophy reveal humanity could not be free
Unless we see that we're all children of Mama Afrika originally
So we must follow Mister Garvey and accomplish what we will
For the whole world is Afrika, and we are a Mighty Race still

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
So we can live the Afrikan dream
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because the whole world must see
Your words have revealed prophecy

JMC
8/17/10
(c) 2010

August 17th is the Earthstrong (Birthday) of the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a national hero of Jamaica, and prophet in the Rastafari movement. He truly was the black redeemer whose mission it was to uplift Africans at home and abroad. Everyone should know Marcus, no matter your origin or complexion because the direction he gave to the African people is ultimately the same direction all of humanity must move in. One God! One Aim! One Destiny! ...Hail Up Marcus!

Stranger To The Familiar

2010-08-16T23:30:00.000-04:00

There have been stories for thousands of years of the archetypal stranger. Imagine a traveler from a distant land somehow finding his way to a place where he is an obvious outsider. He appears to be quite different from those amongst him and unaccustomed to the ways of the people he encounters. As he tries to learn and understand, he may become frustrated because it all seems so different from what he knows. After being in this foreign land for enough time, a few things may happen. He may assimilate after having mastered the new culture and choose to become a part of it. He may live uncomfortably on the fringe of that society, involved in it for the sake of his livelihood, but still considered the stranger. Finally, he may decide to return to his homeland after finding that he cannot compromise his ways in order to fit in.

Sometimes I feel like this proverbial stranger, but the strange thing is, I feel like it within my very own society. Actually it is harder now to define this society, since most of what we now see is not just on a national scale, but on a global scale... pushed by economics and commercialism. I may even dare to say that the world is becoming Americanized, or at least Westernized. With these changes the modern world appears to become more and more alien each day. We have become so self-absorbed with the artificial things of our own creation. We thrive on materialism. We have freedoms like never before and yet seldom are these freedoms tempered by any idea of morality or in the very least, character.

I saw a commercial not too long ago that actually advertised an internet network for infidelity. At first I thought it was a joke, because it was presented as a cartoon, but then I looked up the ambiguous website name online and it was indeed a service that was specifically designed to set up affairs for people in relationships. Needless to say, I was shocked. But then again, why should I be shocked at all? Our society has promoted this type of behavior for years in movies, music, magazines, and other forms of pop culture. We have exposed ourselves to these things, and to our youth, and eventually we have made these behaviors and lifestyles quite normal for us. In spite of this radical change, we still scoff at traditions and practices from ancient times, whether cultural or faith based. We parody what others hold as sacred.

I find it strange that some people would find my own trod of Rastafari bizarre and ridiculous, or for that matter, my very belief in God Himself, and yet they readily accept things which may have once been considered social and cultural taboos such as imprisonment, drunkenness, sexual orientation, obscenities, promiscuity, sexual practices, abortion, body alterations, atheism, etc. Now, it is not my position to judge what is right or wrong, nor will I express my opinions on the aforementioned… but why should my personal belief and ways of life seem so peculiar to members of this society that have accepted things far beyond that in terms of behavior and perhaps negative social impact? It makes no sense.

I believe it has a lot to do with the vanity of humankind. We have bartered in our beliefs in order to achieve our own advantages and comforts in life. Principal no longer plays an import role in our behaviors and instead we are ruled by our own illusions of high-mindedness. Our ideas of liberty and the pursuit of happiness have gone far beyond the idea of living naturally free and doing what we feel necessary to live a peaceful and humble life to our own liking. What really is behind all this? What shapes our identities and causes us to decide to turn the tables on what is considered normal and strange in this modern time? If it is self-destructive, if it is vain, if it is selfish, if it is wicked, hypocritical, and unjust… then that is what in Rastafari we call the concept of Babylon.

H.I.M. Haile Selassie I once said, “unless we find the requisite courage and fixity of purpose to rise above our petty selves; we shall be broken on the wheel of our own invention, slaves of our own despotism.” The system of Babylon is one created by mankind, fashioned by those who strive to get ahead at the expense of others, created out of the lowest of desires, slowly ebbing away at our integrity, our character, and our dignity until we accept the lies, the immorality, the foolishness, and treat it as the most normal thing in the world. It is mental slavery. It is a slavery that affects everyone, no matter their race, color or creed. Sometimes it is very subtle, and sometimes it is very obvious. Even things that are not intrinsically immoral in themselves are eating away at us, like indifference and ignorance. Yet the only way to navigate out of the confusion is to be aware that Babylon does indeed exist and is having an impact on our world.

I wish to escape from Babylon, because I am a stranger here... it is not where I belong. I would rather roam through forested hills, drink from flowing streams of water, and eat freshly picked fruit from the trees. I would rather hear the birds and the creatures and get lost in Creation. I would rather sit amongst the elders and learn from them. I would rather be amongst people who love and respect one another, who praise the Most High, who look after the youths and guide them in ways that are beneficial to themselves and to the greater society. It all may seem utopian and absurd, but this is the lifestyle that allowed for people to live and progress for thousands of years. It was the way we grew up, it was the steady balance to those civilizations consumed by greed and warfare. This desire to go back to a place such as this, namely Africa, is called repatriation in Rastafari. Men like the great Marcus Garvey (who we honor tomorrow on his birthday) told his followers in the African Diaspora to return to the Motherland and escape from this Babylon society that allowed racism, segregation, and injustice and to collect together as a nation that would be able to stand against oppression and regain Africa’s glory. Some things have changed for the better, Garvey would be surprised, but other things remain the same and more dangerously some things are now merely cloaked in deception. Babylon is alive and well, poisoning every nation’s well with that deception.

Africa itself is in trouble, plagued by problems from its colonial past and by warmongers vying for power. Yet where there is hope, there is life. There are still areas of Africa where people live naturally and peacefully, even as there are other parts of the world where this happens too. Movements such as Rastafari have even made in impact in the belly of the beast, like Europe for instance, where many people are changing their attitudes on life. However, in Rastafari we also believe in repatriating mentally and spiritually if not physically. The elders believed very much that physical repatriation would free them from the problems, but in this global Babylonian society we now must consider a Zion State of Mind… becoming a stranger to the familiar and breaking down Babylon’s walls. Good will always prevail, and we can start by changing our attitudes and by freeing up our communities today.

Repatriation Is A Must!,
JAHsh

The Impotence Of Mankind

2010-08-09T09:30:00.001-04:00

Earlier this summer, a bredren and I were reasoning together and we got to looking at the night sky. The stars appeared bright and gleaming and then we started to talk about what it must have been like for thousands of years with these stars as the main means of navigation and the inspiration for mathematics, science, engineering and so many other things. A learned person could look up at the heavens and tell you their location, the season, and knew the patterns of constellations. However when we looked, outside of noticing the dippers and the North Star and maybe a planet, we were both completely ignorant to these things the ancients once regarded as the most basic facts. Even simple farmers and shepherds sitting around their fires would have known the night’s display. They may have not known exactly what stars were, but the twinkling canopy that covered all the earth was studied by all of the civilizations with wonder. When did we trade in this vast knowledge and curiosity... these tools and skills? GPS navigation is available to anyone who can afford it and we can find our location in an instant via satellite whether we are in the Amazon rainforest or the vast ocean. Besides, we can barely notice the stars now with so many artificial lights overpowering the night where we live. This is but one example of something that we’ve traded in for ease and convenience. Yet, have we jeopardized the very progress of humanity for the sake of having more amenities? Has mankind become impotent?

The whole world has gone soft... overexposed and mentally obese. Humanity has become distracted by nonsense and the comforts of life, and because of it we are confounded by the basic essentials that once brought us forward throughout thousands of years of history. Understandably, technology is something that improves and the older ways of doing things become archaic and needlessly complex, but now even our attitudes have changed. Instead of searching for truths and studying things for ourselves, we click our way through Wikipedia and trust it for our answers while we forget whatever we found and its significance within a few minutes. There should be no reason to "reinvent the wheel", but now we don’t even have to spend our time learning how. Our news media is more about opinions, gossip and sensationalism instead of informing people of real issues of society and situations across the globe. People know more about a celebrity’s sex life than relief efforts in Haiti or conflict in the Congo. We trust the internet to network us with friends and lovers and we are rarely shy to expose everything to them, but we can barely socialize in a normal environment. How come you can update me on what you’re eating for a snack but you can’t greet me in the street? Everybody can post some foolish video clip on YouTube, but cannot bother to do something remotely constructive or innovative. If all that energy and time went into something intelligent we just might be all better for it. We don’t know where our food comes from, but we sure know how to eat it all. We don’t know how things are made or what resources are used to create them, but we all use them. We can’t stop an oil spill but we laugh at the notion of God. In fact, we have even lost touch with ourselves to the point where we now watch reality shows to tell us what reality is. No matter if people say that it is only entertainment, if you watch it enough you will begin to judge things based on the norms you are most exposed to... which for some is MTV and so on. We allow ourselves to be herded around like cattle, barely aware of our existence and being overfed by corporations and systems that exploit our abilities and intelligence.

I am no purist by any means. I am part of a generation that clearly has more at their fingertips than any before us. I use the internet for learning, socializing and entertainment. I rely on digital maps. I use technology in all kinds of ways, my laptop, cell phone, iPod, my blog, etc. and it is all great. There is nothing wrong with having these benefits. Yet at the same time I know that I do not possess the ability to do many other things that are considered the bedrock of civilization. The less I know, the more dependent I become, the more unsure I become, the less innovative I become. I don’t expect us all to be expert navigators or botanists, but it seems as if our drive to learn and achieve as a whole is lost. As a teacher, I see this often in our younger generation, who dismiss the work it takes to become educated and productive as a waste of their time, time that they would rather use on frivolous things. Lacking common sense and responsibility is a much bigger problem than our growing inability to do things for ourselves because we can relearn how to do certain things. If we bothered to cultivate the earth and sustain ourselves, if we could build and repair more, if we read more and studied things for ourselves more, if we truly socialized more, wondered more, created more, and had more faith in the Creator, then we will probably continue marching on for thousands of years more. If not, our impotence may eventually lead to our demise. When we lose the spirit behind our humanity, we lose ourselves… There is an African proverb that says, "a child who is carried on the back won’t know how far the journey is". Let us each get up and walk the rest of this journey on our own two feet... before Segway machines replace our ability to even take a step.

Backward Never, Forward Ever,
JAHsh

Hand Of God

2010-07-23T23:55:00.000-04:00

Hand Of God

It was during my days of trouble
When shadows had covered me
And the very surface I stood upon
Had been saturated by my tears
I had sunken into a slough of despair
A body shaken by a trembling mind
A soul displaced by a delirious heart
I had become a prisoner of affliction
Bound with heavy fetters and chains
That I myself had forged in iniquity

But a thunderous roar had permeated
From beyond the cinereous confusion
Bursting the shackles that restrained me
And through the fog extended a hand
Firmly, it drew me out of the miry pit
Out from destruction and darkness
It was the Hand of God that took me
And sealed the depths beneath me
My feet had found the solid ground
Then, He told me to rise and awaken

And behold, I was gazing upon His pretty face
It looked to me like Selassie I, Ababa Janhoy
The angels said to I, “Hail the Comforter!”
It looked to me like Yeshua, The Messiah
The angels said to I, “Hail the Savior!”
It looked to me like Jehovah, The Father
The angels said to I, “Hail the Creator!”
And behold, I could see His likeness and divinity
The Might of the Trinity, His Imperial Majesty
It was JAH, Rastafari! The Conquering Lion!

JMC
7/23/10
(c) 2010

July 23rd is the Earthstrong (Birthday) of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I. Without King Selassie I, I would still be in the miry pit. It was the Hand of God that grasped hold of me and His Majesty’s face is the first that I had “seen”. It reflected The Comforter, The Savior, and The Creator. This is why I am a Rastaman, without doubt and apology. This is why I celebrate the life of Haile Selassie I.

Fragments

2010-07-21T15:45:00.000-04:00

Fragments

It descends upon me when I am ill-prepared
When I have no paper or pad to soak it up
And I try to grab the last bits of inspiration
Before it all vanishes back into the oblivion
This is usually how it comes through to me
Precisely the hour when I shower I can see
Streams of consciousness go down the drain
Some great line, or refrain... it’s such a shame
These poetic duds mixed with the soap suds
Perhaps they will return to me when it rains
Even while I drive, my mind will still contrive
Verses I try to repeat while navigating streets
But it never quite comes back entirely complete
I wonder what marvels could have manifested
Like Michelangelo attested that his uncut marble
Contained sculptures trapped within each rock
If I could chisel poetry out from my mental block
I would display it in the museum of my mind
But instead I find galleries of unfinished works
Ideas and phrases scattered on different pages
What once seemed brilliant is lost to the ages
How I wish that I could bottle these thoughts
Fragments that I would protect and preserve
Opening them only when I was ready to serve

JMC
7/21/10
(c) 2010

Ole Firestick

2010-07-20T23:30:00.001-04:00

Ole Firestick

Ole firestick is so easy to catch
And I carry a bundle
So don’t you light up the match
If you do, I will tumble
One by one, the flames will dance
Fyah lik me as I crumble
Can’t afford another romance
I’m just trying to live humble

Dem seh, if you play with fire you must get bun
My head know this, but my heart still a learn
When one go and leave, the next one return
To stir it up, grab the handle and start to churn
Ole firestick catch easy and I think you’d agree
I just want a woman to love and squeeze me
But all I get from she is a bag of her insecurity
Everyting irie, until I get bun by the third degree

Ole firestick is so easy to catch
And I carry a bundle
So don’t you light up the match
If you do, I will tumble
One by one, the flames will dance
Fyah lik me as I crumble
Can’t afford another romance
I’m just trying to live humble

Dem seh, out of frying pan and inna di fyah
I know it is trouble, a trouble I don’t require
Woman is like dynamite and I am the wire
It start to light spark and explode my desire
And if I don’t listen, well I must feel the heat
This same situation, I am doomed to repeat
Rekindled charcoal bun the soles of my feet
Afraid I’ll go up in flames before I can retreat

Ole firestick is so easy to catch
And I carry a bundle
So don’t you light up the match
If you do, I will tumble
One by one, the flames will dance
Fyah lik me as I crumble
Can’t afford another romance
I’m just trying to live humble

Firestick a blaze and its getting hotter
Someone please fetch me some water
Plenty buckets to douse out the dawta
Oh Lord, I’m like a lamb to the slaughter

Ole firestick, me seh you’re too dangerous
Too dangerous for me to touch
Ole firestick, me seh you’re too dangerous
Too dangerous for me to touch

JMC
7/20/10
(c) 2010

The Most Beautiful Game

2010-06-23T23:45:00.001-04:00

After four very long years the FIFA World Cup has returned, this time to the land of South Africa. The land formerly besieged by apartheid, the land of Nelson Mandela, Stephen Biko, Desmond Tutu, and Lucky Dube. Some people were skeptical of this World Cup’s location in South Africa, centered around the city of Johannesburg, which has been experiencing an outbreak of crime and violence, the same violence that led to roots reggae singer Lucky Dube’s murder a few years ago. Others have said that the attention given to hosting the World Cup has ignored the problems facing the population of disenfranchised South Africans in the country. While the South Africa World Cup has not been without its criticism, I think that ultimately it is helping South Africa more than it is hurting it. I don’t think the now elderly freedom fighter, Nelson Mandela, would endorse anything less.

I have been waiting for this event, the most highly anticipated in the world, since the end of the last one in 2006. The World Cup is like no other sporting event, even the Olympics cannot match the fervor and the attention that this soccer championship garners from all across the globe. Passions run deep, only 32 nations qualify to participate and only 1 will survive to be the champion. Since this World Cup began on June 11th, I’ve had to negotiate between my daily responsibilities as a teacher during the busy end of the school year and with viewing the various matches of football each day by any means necessary. Every spare moment I had would be spent huddled around a computer, listening to the radio, or finding a TV. Now that the school year is finally over, I can hang up the shirt and tie for the rest of the summer, put on one of my soccer jerseys, and enjoy the rest of the tournament on my own time without sneaking away at computers or waiting to see recorded matches back at home. Of course, the last games of the group stages are played simultaneously... now if I could only split myself in two. Thankfully DVR technology is the next best thing.

Soccer, or football as most of the world calls it, is really the world’s universal game. It is remarkably simple and yet at the same time can be played with such complexity and style that it seems beyond our scope. All it requires is something to kick, a bundle of stitched rags will do if a ball cannot be afforded. And although anyone can play the game, young and old, men and women, rich and poor, very few can master it with the grace and technique of those who become professional players. Each of these players have a story, some of the best players often come from poverty, where their one leisure was soccer, and if they are were lucky enough and skilled enough they could become professionals. Professionals who could earn millions of dollars playing on famous club teams and who could one day get the chance to represent their own country on the stage of the World Cup.

In my travels I have seen soccer played wherever I went. In the Italian village of Volturara Irpina and the small Sicilian city of Melilli where parts of my family came from, children would play in paved piazzas in the shadow of an old church and bounce soccer balls down narrow cobblestone streets. Soccer runs in the blood of the Italians, as it does in many other nations of the world. In the streets of Belmont, Port-of-Spain in Trinidad & Tobago, young boys played barefoot on the dirt road in the hills above the city. I can remember standing beside a gate and watching how the neighbor’s chickens would scramble out of the way as skilled feet danced the ball between opponents. In Bigiston, Suriname, young men played on a pitch in front of a primary school beside the Marowijne River. In this village that was part Amerindian Caribs and part African Maroons, a game of soccer was representative of two different cultures and peoples living peacefully and being united by something as simple as a friendly soccer match. That is one reason why it is called the beautiful game. The Brazilians first called it that because of the athleticism and technique involved in playing, but I believe it is also because soccer demonstrates a way of life and culture that no other game can be compared to. Soccer is a culture for all cultures.

The World Cup magnifies all of this and brings it to a fever pitch. Every four years, a number of nations from every populated continent come together in order to compete for the title of Champion of the World. They are the ones who made it through qualification rounds which began a few years ago. Almost every nation on the earth has a team and football association, but only 32 make it to the tournament. Different skin colors, diverse faces, ethnicities, and religions all come together to speak the universal language of football. All of the different team jerseys, with their bright colors, distinct patterns and insignia are emblematic of armies gathered for a military campaign. Fans wear these same uniforms of national pride as their team plays for the glory. Flags, chants, and anthems fill the stadium in support of 11 men playing on the pitch. Players on the national teams may face teammates and friends from their individual club teams who instead represent their home country during the World Cup. Nations may face former enemies, colonial masters, or even current political rivals but somehow the simple game of soccer is a unifying force and all of the differences seem to disappear in the midst of the beautiful game. Soccer cuts down all barriers and focuses the energy into a competition of sport. It is the closest thing one can find to a war, where passions flare and everything is on the line, but there is no bloodshed, there is no destruction. These soccer armies are not created to wage war, but for winning the honor of being the greatest soccer nation in the world. During each game there will ultimately be a winner and a loser, one will advance in triumph while the other team will have to end their journey with dignified acceptance. The players and fans of a national team are deeply embedded in the action and the results, while others may be neutral to some of the games until their own country or favorites become the ones to have a stake in it. Every move is watched, every second could lead to stunning goals being made, or the agony of near misses. Star players could rise, star players could fall. Games may offer edge of the seat, nail-biting action, or slow-paced unimpressive ball passing. Simply put, there is nothing like World Cup.

By the time I have gotten around to writing this, the group stage of the World Cup is nearly over, with the final games of each group being played simultaneously for fair play in determining who will emerge out to the Round of 16. Earlier today the United States advanced from and won their group during the last few minutes of stoppage time added at the end of the match. That one goal made the difference and might ultimately help the U.S. finally have the opportunity to be taken seriously as an international soccer nation. So far, other nations have advanced too, including some of the usual big names like Brazil and Argentina. On the opposite end, other teams have already been eliminated, among them most of the six African nations that qualified for the World Cup. It is rather heartbreaking to see because this is the first World Cup held on African soil and African teams have always been the underdog in comparison to the European and South American giants. A few days ago, the host nation South Africa, who almost had an amazing chance to make it out of the group against all odds, was eliminated. They joined Cameroon, and Nigeria who also had one last chance to make it, and nearly did. The other African teams seem to be joining them soon, all but one, the Black Stars of Ghana. After two successful matches Ghana was at the top of their group, and although they lost their last first-round game against the soccer titan Germany, they were still able to advance out of their group with 2nd place. On their backs, Ghana will be carrying the hopes of all the African continent and the African nations that were eliminated. The strange irony of it all is that Ghana will now have to face the U.S. during the Round of 16 knock-out game. My heart will be torn while watching that match. Yet, I can only imagine the feeling being all the more intense for Ghanaian-Americans, like some of my friends and students, who love both of their nations. The World Cup often overflows with surprises...

I’m looking forward to about two and a half more weeks of World Cup soccer, it all ends on July 11th after a month of competition. Surely there will be disappointments, but there will also be glorious triumphs. Hopefully my allegiance is on the right side, at the right time. I’m looking for something good to come out of the USA vs. Ghana game... though I’m not sure what that should be yet. I’m looking for gli Azzurri, the Italian national team, to live up to their reputation as the defending champion of the world. Finally, I am looking forward to watch some lovely soccer being played by Argentina and other top teams. In the end, may the best and most deserving team win the World Cup title for the most beautiful game. One thing is for certain... it only gets better from here!

Something special will happen in South Africa, and there is no better place for it to happen than this land of struggle and reconciliation. I wonder what Lucky Dube would think. I wonder what Stephen Biko and all those who lost their lives in the struggle against apartheid would think. Different nations, united by one spirit, one culture, one language... the most beautiful game: Soccer, Football, Fútbol, Calcio.

Forza Azzurri! Viva Italia! (... and Ghana, USA and Argentina!),
JAHsh

Legacies

2010-06-10T20:45:00.001-04:00

Legacies

Together we sit in different
Corners of the classroom
From different corners of
The earth and its nations
Yet united we have come to
Uproot the grisly tree that
Once bore a strange fruit
And in its place transplant
The lost legacies pulled up
From the Atlantic seafloor
Stolen from the African shore
Of Ghana, of Togo, of Benin
By pirates of the Caribbean
Behind closed doors we have
Discovered the harsh reality
The untold, the unheard of
Forgotten cold case mysteries
Replaced with a history coated
In refined plantation sugarcane
Because it’s easier to swallow
To accept and follow their ways
Forgetting the days of slavery
The shackles and chains of events
Of struggle, of sharecropping
Of segregation and emancipation
Of education and innovation
Rebellion, protest, and progress
While searching for our own voice
As Douglas did, and then DuBois
Truth and hope were muffled by
Noise of nonsense and white lies
But our eyes are now open wide
With a newborn awareness we
Tune into a different frequency
Listening to the musical notes of
Reggae, jazz, rhythm and blues
Reading Angelou and Langston
Hues of color evoked through
The souls of these black folk
In order to give us a memory
Us, the students of lost legacies
Now, known as kings and queens
Knowing we can achieve all things
And carry it back to our corners
Teaching each of our nations about
The African story, the American story
The Human story... Our story

JMC
6/10/10
(c) 2010

Livicated to the students of my African-American History class, 2010.

Revolutionary Life

2010-05-31T23:30:00.000-04:00

Revolutionary Life

I’m much more revolutionary than the ordinary
Compare me to a Special Forces unit of military
When situations get hairy like my natty dreads
I still push onward all the way to the very edge

They wonder why I wear the Africa medallion
An Ithiopian style even though I’m mostly Italian
One simple reason, I’m in Selassie’s battalion
And until it’s over, it’s still Babylon I’m battling

I get JAH message across like a BlackBerry might
Or Barry White when a queen comes into sight
I’m not perverted, my eyes just become averted
A natural instinct since Adam and Eve first flirted

I play some reggae music to get through each day
The sounds of Culture, Sizzla, Buju, and Bob Marley
Every singer and deejay help to show the right way
And maybe hip-hop when it’s got something to say

I’m trying to cross back from this side of the Atlantic
I’m frantic to reach Addis Ababa and see the gigantic
Stone stelai of Axum, where civilization had begun
Where the Ark of the Covenant sits in St. Mary of Zion

I teach lessons manifesting from beyond any book
Telling the youths that history requires a second look
I could have been a pirate, robbing them like a crook
But the revolutionary life was the style that I took

JMC
5/31/10
(c) 2010

Thirty Strong

2010-05-24T23:30:00.000-04:00

Just a couple of days ago, on May 22nd, I turned 30 years old. That is an age I just had never imagined being when I was younger. Even 5 years ago when I first began to blog, I was right in the middle of my twenties and still never really thought much about it. This last year though it had started to hit me that the Big 3-0 was looming right around the corner, and of course as it is said, "time waits on no one." With my birthday quickly approaching I had created a “20’s Bucket List” in my head to take note of certain things I would have liked to have a last chance of doing before I turned 30. I did in fact achieve some of those more realistic goals, but ultimately in retrospect it didn’t even matter what I did or did not do, because everything shall come in its due season.

I really don’t fuss too much over imaginary boundaries... and time is one of those borderlines, an illusion when the truth be told. Why does turning 30 change anything? Why would it cause any anxiety in my heart? The reason is because we as a society place a value on it, but the value is often overrated. There is no magic spell or sudden change that occurs. Of course we age, but aging is not intrinsically a measure of anything. I have seen fools at ages where we would consider most of them to be “elders” and I have seen remarkable wisdom in the hearts of those we would call “youths”. Biological maturity and mental and spiritual maturity are on different planes of existence. Obviously growing older biologically requires no effort (on the other-hand trying to stay young requires all of one’s effort!) You just can’t fight it, all you can do is accept the fact and make the most of it, and I would say to go further and embrace it. At the same time we can stay “young at heart” and mentally sharp at any age.

It has also been said that “30 is the new 20” and that may be true in a sense because it seems like more and more young adults (20’s and... 30’s?) are in a state of perpetual adolescence. Things have changed, people do not “grow up” as fast, or at least they do not take on the full role of adulthood. I’m not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing though. After turning 30 I definitely want to keep a youthful vibe, but at the same time I want to be something greater than before. I want to achieve certain levels in life that a grown man should. Think of the very word, “man”. Doesn’t every young male want that earn that description? What is the measure of a man? For instance, I want to find my wife and start a family of my own, I want to travel the world more, I want to publish some of my works or record some more music, I want to stay progressive in my teaching career. Holding on to yesteryears can seem ideal but it stagnates the mind and keeps us from living our stages of life accordingly. I want to be more of a man than I am now.

I don’t quite know what to expect but I have a whole decade to reflect on being Thirty-Something, after all I’m still fresh in the door and content with being just plain old 30 for now! One thing I do know though is that I am Thirty Strong... 30 years of experience, of growth, of accumulated wisdom. During my twenties I graduated college, I came to truly know JAH, I began my trod in Rastafari, I became closer to my family, I successfully started my career, I fostered my creativity, I have made new friends and new relationships, and so many other things, both good and bad, that I would not change at all. If I paused my life at the age of 20, I would have never reached a certain level, and I would never have received my blessings. I hope my 30’s are twice as nice as my 20’s were. I hope that I still cannot fathom what is in store for me, the same way I couldn’t see past a certain age when I was younger. However this time I have faith in my heart. I know for sure that good things will come my way, and all I have to do is line up and receive it.

I certainly was given a sign of things to come during my Earthstrong this year. I had a great time with my parents and brothers the weekend before when we could all be together and just when I thought I was going to have a rather uneventful passing of my actual birthday, some good friends blessed me with a surprise party to celebrate the occasion... and that was something very special to me (I may not make a fuss over much, but I still need joy!). Both situations showed me that I had love in my life and that is all I need to proceed! Love is the foundation to build upon.

There is a time and place for everything. The time starts now, the place starts here... I’m ready to keep living life to the fullest and receive my birthright! I give thanks and praise to the Most High JAH for my Thirtieth Year! Standing at 30-Strong! That’s my journey thus far...

Bless,
JAHsh

Full Out Mi Tam

2010-05-21T22:30:00.002-04:00

Full Out Mi Tam

Now that I can full out mi tam
Mi seh, ever since I full out mi tam
People dem cyan seem to overstand
That I a Zion soulJAH in a foreign land

See how my locks grow
Just so yuh done know
I&I an ambassador
To the King of Kings

Tek mi fi no poppy show
I will go toe to toe
Fighting the wicked
And all of their schemes

Everywhere that I go
People dem want to know
Why I bide up inna
The red gold and greens

Why do they galang so
Turning from friend to foe
Just cause I reject
All their Babylonian dreams

Now that I can full out mi tam
Mi seh, ever since I full out mi tam
People dem cyan seem to overstand
That I a Zion soulJAH in a foreign land

I beat to a different drum
Yes, the Nyahbinghi one
I really don’t care
If they think I a fool

They can go have their fun
Mocking the moon and sun
I don’t have time
I have JAH Works to do

I’m keeping them on the run
With a roar like a mad lion
Flash mi dreadlocks
But I still keep my cool

Never see me with no weapon
Neither a knife nor gun
Life over death
It is the Father’s rule

They want I to be a baldhead man
They want I to be a cleanface man
They just can’t stand to see a Rastaman
A soulJAH marching to the Mama Land

Now that I can full out mi tam
Mi seh, ever since I full out mi tam
People dem cyan seem to overstand
That I a Zion soulJAH in a foreign land

JMC
5/21/10
(c) 2010

My Vineyard

2010-05-17T22:45:00.001-04:00

My Vineyard

Every fig to its own fig tree
Every fruit to its own vine
I know that I shall always
Have a place that is mine
From two stems that were
Grafted together by twine
Tended by His loving hands
Two became one, combined
Unto them were three branches
Following the Master’s design
Grown in different directions
Yet all raised by the sunshine
I was ripened in my due season
Aged by the passage of time
Picked in the days of harvest
When I had been redefined
Blessed over by the Son and
Changed like water into wine
Repented and then fermented
So that I could reach my prime
Spreading joy in JAH garden
Helping young shoots to climb
To achieve a sense of purpose
Seeds fertilized by the divine
Someday I too shall blossom
Out from a love intertwined
When I will bear forth fruit
A new variety of my own kind
Planted safely among my roots
Where they shall always find
A home back in my vineyard
In the soil of my bloodline

JMC
5/17/10
(c) 2010

Divine Spark

2010-04-17T21:45:00.001-04:00

Divine Spark

I imagine that this is how
It must have been like
In the very beginning
When a radiant divine spark
Came and kindled the dark
Thus bringing forth life...

And so, there we were
Seated like august royalty
As noble kings and queens
Upon our own four thrones
A mighty council speaking
With four separate voices

As hosts of ancient elements
Earth, heat, air and water
Three sons, one daughter
Conjoined by the ether...
The heartbeat, the rhythm
Mystic feature of the cosmos

The appointed time had come
Because in the calm awaited
A maelstrom of poetic words
And waves of inspired sounds
United in celestial power
Held back only by the tongue

Then with every utterance
Brilliance rushed forth
Out from our open mouths
Shooting from four corners
To seek the hidden depths
Of the vast empty universe

This energy meeting and then
Swirling like luminous clouds
Hovering above the expanse
Ripe with light just right
For painting an empty canvas
With strokes of His genius

Each breath as a solar wind
To blow across the surface
Igniting minds and hearts
With eyes blossoming open
Like foliage in the sun
All became one, it was done

This had been the stage show
Where, enveloped in dark
A divine spark ignited the
Atmosphere and made clear
The visages of those who came
To witness this replication

This is how it must have been
The first acts of Creation...

JMC
4/17/10
(c) 2010

Poetic Presence

2010-04-16T23:50:00.001-04:00

Yesterday evening, April 15th, I had the pleasure to participate in a poetry reading with some very talented friends... both poets and musicians. The event was called “Spontaneous Poetry and Music”, and it was arranged by a good friend, and accomplished poet, to take place at the school where he teaches. He had excitedly told me about it for days, and in hindsight his enthusiasm would certainly be the harbinger for things to come. I had been looking forward to the occasion for weeks and I knew that it would be a perfect opportunity for me to share my words and expressions with a group of people, but I had no idea just how wonderful it would be.

I must say that the vibes were on the highest level from the very beginning. There is nothing like a whole lot of love and welcoming to set things straight. Any nervousness that I may have felt quickly disappeared as I was in the presence of great people who were ready to share their hearts and minds, just like myself. After greeting my fellow artists, old friends and new friends alike, I took my place on a stool, one of four arranged in a slight semi-circle. This was where I and the other poets sat. In the middle of the circle, splitting us into pairs, were the musicians... percussion, drums, and guitar. Behind us were beautiful paintings, one of Bob Marley, and the draped red, gold, and green colors of the Ethiopian banner shone against the background of black curtains. Everything was set-up to perfection on an intimate stage, lights gently dimmed, chairs of the crowd before us, video cameras ready to tape, reggae music playing as guests took their seats. I could see some of my friends in the audience, and I was in the company of my colleagues making their own final arrangements.

Then in what almost seemed as a mirage, I saw my parents walk in. It was an absolute surprise because I did not expect them to make it. I had invited them to the event and last weekend I showed them the flyer advertising the evening, but in the back of my mind I considered it as just a formality and an update as to what I was doing. My Mom had called me a few hours before to wish me luck and mentioned that they probably would not be able to come because it was a busy time. So, needless to say, when I did see my Mom and Dad standing there, I had no words... none of the poems that I selected to bring with me and read could convey how I felt in their presence. My parents had never seen me in my element, with my music or poetry, at least not since my teenage years with school events and such. I didn’t know what they would think of my works, I didn’t know what to expect... but I was happy that they had come. After making introductions, I sat back on my stool flipping through some of my poems, thinking on which ones to read, how to deliver them, and being aware of my parents sitting in the crowd.

What followed was truly magical. We didn’t know exactly how things would proceed... because as billed, it was spontaneous. I timidly volunteered to begin with a poem of my own, one that I had decided to make my first reading. But our beloved host and fellow poet had forgotten to allow the honored percussionist to open the evening. And so, the elder of 70-odd years, with massive dreadlocks tied back, his beard long and dreaded as well, greeted us all and gave thanks and praises to the Creator while venerating our ancestors and elders, those present and in spirit. It was the perfect beginning, the vibes were in order, and I felt at ease. After our opening ritual, I looked down at my poems resting before me on a music stand. Before the beautiful blessing had begun I was about to read my chosen poem, the one honoring my ancestors. I could barely believe it, but I knew it was more than mere coincidence... it was purposeful. It was a natural mystic, ordaining me to continue properly. So I read. This first one was for my family... for my Mom and Dad, for my grandparents, for all those who came before me, it was my tribute to them, my thanks to them. I could see my parents listening intently, smiles on their faces as I shaped my words, and then came the applause of the crowd at the end. I was now in another place. The rest of the evening was a fantastic collage of art... the other poets and I traded back and forth, different voices, different rhythms, woven together with beautiful tunes from the guitar and the different drums, the interactions with the audience, the presence and the smiles of my parents. Time didn’t seem to matter at all, but when we did conclude our evening it felt like we still could have continued for hours more, both performers and audience alike.

After the show, guests came up to me, expressing their admiration and appreciation, all of which was wonderful. Then, up came my parents... smiling, embracing me, and congratulating me. All I could think about was how incredible I felt, how thankful I was for my Mom and Dad being able to see me do what I love, how grateful I was that they really did appreciate it, and how I was so glad that I had invited them to come see me in the first place. I couldn’t remember a time I was happier, not any time recently. Something amazing happened, all the fears or discomforts that I had when it came to my parents accepting me, real or imagined, seemed to wash away. All the barriers broke down when I saw them before me, proud of me, happy for me, impressed by me... understanding of me. Me: the poet, me: the dreadlock, me: the Rasta, me: the son, me: the friend, me: the individual. I could not stop glowing... and I am still glowing as I write this.

I mark this occasion as a milestone in my life, a time that I will never forget, and a moment that meant so much to me. There is nothing compared to the love, support and approval of those that mean the most to you, such as my parents. I felt like a proud child, reverberating a moment in time... from a performance in a school play, a display of artwork, an excited hug on the reception of good news. Everything channeled and spun together to the present, in their presence. I can imagine myself feeling the same way no matter the time, no matter my age or their age. I give thanks and praise to JAH, the Almighty, for the blessing and for my accomplishment. I give thanks to my parents, and all of my family for their love. I give thanks for my friends for their support and love. For everyone’s presence that night, I do give thanks. It was a poem in itself, with every word, every line, in its proper place. A Poetic presence...

More Love & More Life,
JAHsh

The Enemy Within

2010-04-15T16:45:00.000-04:00

The Enemy Within

The enemy within enters when
Least expected, he’s injected
Like vapor in through my nostril
Same as JAH gave me my debut
Except now this spirit is hostile

He slithers down until he’s found
A place where he can manipulate
And there he grows and waits
This boa constrictor...
Coiled around my soul
Intent to squeeze me into submission
And suffocate my very confidence
He stays there in between reality and dream
Ready to unleash his serpentine scheme
Then, he speaks...

“You and your pathetic excuse for dreadlocks,
Don’t you realize you are a laughing stock?
You ought to be ashamed of who you are
A disgrace to your family and your culture.”

Everything you follow, all that you believe
Is unattainable, you are weak and naive
You are an outsider, and you’ll never belong
They don’t accept you, they just play along

And with a hiss he said, “You are talentless,
Your art, your words, they fail to impress.”
You’ll never be good enough, don’t you realize?
Go look in the mirror; you’re too big of a size.”

Then he sprung with his forked tongue...
“You’ll never find a good woman, one to hold
They’ll pass you by as you grow alone and old.
And when they do arrive, they will never stay
All the love that you have will only go one-way.”

I could now feel his scales impale my insides
Burrowing deeper within, the Father of All Lies
“Friends praise you, and it seems all flattering
But they mock you with jeers and back-chatting
Do you really think you’re respected, you fool?
I wonder, how is it that you teach in a school?”

Soon his voice began to sound more like mine
As he intertwined with my peace of mind
Not content, he’d soon want me for dead
To take me over and reside in me instead

He used so much venom to bend me to his will
I was overcome with self-pity and feeling ill
Until, I hurled him up from inside of me
Declaring, “I was appointed by His Majesty
And you are found guilty of high treason
For attacking me with malicious reason
For the spiritual war you have instigated
You are hereby being excommunicated
Be gone! Leave me, you viper!
And carry away your stress, yes!
For I will always pass your devilish test
Just like Yeshua Christ did in the wilderness
I am stronger than Satan, Legion, and the Beast
And will forever trample you below my feet.”
Then I hold my head high and trod to the East...

JMC
4/15/10
(c) 2010

Look Upon

2010-04-12T19:50:00.003-04:00

Look Upon

Look upon Mother Earth, releasing her frustration
Earthquakes are the cause of massive devastation
People of the world are enduring great tribulation
Still suffering after news-media left them forsaken
It could be the end times, or they might be mistaken
A living nightmare from which they wish to awaken

Look upon The Most High
Set your eyes upon Zion
No matter the problem size
Nothing can trample the Lion

Look upon the youths, who are only half your size
Babylon grow them to be caught-up and victimized
They’ve been fattened on a diet of nonsense and lies
Now their tripping over the unlacing of their family ties
Proud nations are becoming so weak and uncivilized
If this is our future, then we’re in for a big surprise

Look upon The Most High
Set your eyes upon Zion
No matter the problem size
Nothing can trample the Lion

Look upon the gap, between the rich and the poor
All the trouble still ah bubble like a festering sore
No food for the hungry, while the wealthy want more
Yet the cries of injustice are much too loud to ignore
As the people turn to war so they can settle the score
And blood runs like a river from the hills to the shore

Look upon The Most High
Set your eyes upon Zion
No matter the problem size
Nothing can trample the Lion

Look upon the leaders who always break their own rules
The clergy in the churches, even teachers in the schools
They’re switching the game and making us into the fools
Wrapped around their fingers, as thread to their spools
They all clamor for control, but they’re only Satan’s tools
Used for destroying the earth down to its very molecules

Look upon The Most High
Set your eyes upon Zion
No matter the problem size
Nothing can trample the Lion

Look upon H.I.M., Oh Jehovah
Set your eyes upon Zion
Even when it seems to be over
Here comes the Conquering Lion

JMC
4/12/10
(c) 2010

Deadly Arrows

2010-04-11T22:45:00.000-04:00

In the beginning was the Word... that very word of Creation, when JAH spoke and it was so. This is the Word, Sound & Power... the ancient concept that brings things into existence, from the commandments of JAH to the utterances of the Rastaman, to the instructions of a teacher or leader and branching further out to the most menial of purposes of everyday conversation. Created in His likeness, mankind was also endowed with this ability to speak and create. Yet, for thousands of years it has been known to the wise that the tongue has the power of both life and death. The same words that can be used to create and breathe life into someone can destroy them as well. Each one of us carries a deadly concealed weapon.

Since the dawn of civilization we have used words as the vehicles of our thoughts and ever since then we’ve lived in a society where we depend on words. After all, words are the center of our lives. They are the fabric that weaves in between the past, present and future. They are the channels that allow us to tune into each other’s lives. And while words serve their noble purposes, people also love to use them for petty reasons, either talking foolishness or wickedness. Often times, we feel that we must share our opinion on everything and everyone, especially in this “Age of Communication”... so many things to say, but few worthy things. We sometimes speak recklessly, without consideration, and do not even know of the power that we wield. Why are words so powerful? Because they pierce deeply, pass the flesh, through the bone, and into the soul. Words can’t be taken back and if we are not careful we will either harm someone or harm ourselves, ensnared by the very things we speak. It is no wonder why so many ancient tomes of wisdom have hundreds of teachings that warn against a reckless mouth. I especially like this metaphor from Psalms:

They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their words like deadly arrows. (Psalm 64:3)

The tongue lies, flatters, blabbers, boasts, backbites, and curses... it is truly destructive and easy to lose control, which is why we ultimately respect those who do know how to tame the tongue and instead use it to speak gentle words and healing words… words of Creation. Clean words encourage a clean mind and clean heart. Even if nothing good or constructive can be said then it is worthwhile not speaking at all and therefore break apart those “deadly arrows”. This war of words is nothing new, as the Scriptures reveal, and it is something that I definitely encounter in my daily life.

As an educator, I work in an environment where words and talking about people happen often. It comes with the job... communicating, directing, discussing. Socializing occurs on all levels, whether professionally with co-workers, in the classroom with students, or just casually venting, analyzing and criticizing. Reckless mouths are everywhere, and even the prudent teacher can fall to the level of a foolish juvenile... after all, bad habits catch easy. I have become aware of sometimes falling into the trap of the tongue myself, something I used to avoid, but now I must think twice because it flourishes in my work environment. It is just another one of life’s challenges to try and do the right thing, even if I am beset on all sides by destructive words, because as a Caribbean proverb says, “you can't stop you ear from hearing, but you can stop you mouth from talking.” It can end with me. It can end with you. The silent tongue can be the deadliest one, killing off the gossip, the rumor, and the wickedness. That is power! It is more powerful still, being in the position of a role-model and mentor to the next generation.

Remember to hold your tongue, cease fire and put down your weapon. Stop the malicious talk and speaking evil of one another because it spreads like wildfire... and everybody should know that the fyah bun! Yes, let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in JAH sight!

Bless,
JAHsh

Heart Murmurs

2010-02-27T10:55:00.000-05:00

Heart Murmurs

In quiet introspection
I can almost hear her think
Detection on the brink of
The rhythm of my breath and
Synchronized to the beat
Of my heart
And if I slow it down
Maybe I can catch
Some sound
Some proof
That she’s intervening
Pulling on a cord
Triggering my mind
From behind boundaries
Beyond my reach
Beyond my speech
And so, I try the same
Balling up a thought
And hurling it toward her
Through time and space
Maybe finding a place
As a voice in her head
Speaking to her heart
This is how we talk now
In indecipherable whispers
From far corners
Separate, but equal in our
Longing to intrude
And hurdle the
Invisible barriers
That we’ve built
Between us

JMC
2/27/10
(c) 2010

Crazy Logic

2010-02-26T18:30:00.001-05:00

Crazy Logic

They call I insane
Cause I don’t move the same
As the rest of them
They turn their necks
As if they become vex
At my strange speech
And strange ways
But it no phase

They think I a madman
Cause I follow JAH plan
Respecting the natural order
Of roots and reality
A higher mentality
They don’t see
And don’t overstand
But I can

They say that I crazy
Cause I praise JAH daily
Uttering His Wonderful Name
Giving thanks for creation
For the blessed sensation
Of being alive
And staying humble
But they want I to stumble

They take I for a fool
Cause I sit in Jerusalem School
And learn of righteousness
Of how to resist evil
And begin the upheaval
Of the Babylon system
Chanting on the one-drop
But they beg me to stop

They label I mentally ill
Cause I won’t bend to their will
Or follow their fashion
They turn the world inside out
All because of their doubt
Yet I trust and believe
And so they call I deranged
But I won’t change

They call I confused
Cause its Rastafari I choose
As I trod on toward Zion
They say I lost my identity
And use every obscenity
To distract my mind
To lead me astray
But that’s "crazy", I say

JMC
2/26/10
(c) 2010

Locked Up

2010-02-17T23:30:00.000-05:00

I’ve been locked up for a year now. It has been a full 365 dreaded days marked off on the calendar. I’m talking about my dreadlocks of course! (Although in a different time and place, I really may have been locked up for wearing dreads). Yes it’s hard to believe that the time has passed by so quickly and yet these are what I would still call the baby-steps of my “dread journey”, a journey that I hope to continue for quite some time. Locked up with a life sentence, JAH willing!

It has been an amazing year, a time that has offered up so many different perspectives, things that I could not quite grasp until I started to wear the locks. There is a consciousness that comes along with becoming a dread. It is a symbol of strength, of livication (dedication), and identity. It is a symbol that stands out amongst the crowds and it is accompanied by the mystical feeling of being one of the warrior-priests of Rastafari, commissioned by the Most High, and separated from the Babylon system like the ancient Nazarites. As the locks grow longer, they mark the wisdom and experience gained, and endurance tested along life’s road, a testimony unto itself like the growth rings of a towering tree. Yes, there is much lore on the power of the dreads... from talk of them as “antennas to tune into JAH” to them having supernatural qualities, to their channeling of the lion spirit. I had usually dismissed such notions because for the longest time I did not share in the experience. It seemed farfetched and hyperbolic, but I now can see why wearing the “covenant”, as I&I Rastafari say, brings about a change in mentality. I should know… because for most of my trod with Rastafari, I was not a dreadlocks.

I first sighted up Rastafari about 8 to 9 years ago now. Up until one year ago today, I was what some would call a “balhead Rasta”. I had the heart of Rastafari and the livity of Rastafari, but I did not wear locks upon my head. Not that I didn’t want to... it was circumstances. My journey to JAH started during my last year of university when I was still a lion’s whelp in the movement. I was growing a bit wiser each day, learning from my Rasta bredren and elders, communicating with JAH like never before, pouring over the Scriptures, walking in a different way of life... my eyes opening wider and wider with every passing moment of the next few years. I fondly look back at these first steps on my trod as one of the greatest times in my life. Yet, although my heart was “dreading”, I had to negotiate with the realities and responsibilities of the typical American life that soon came to follow. After I graduated college I was out in the working world trying to earn money, then I was pursuing a graduate degree, and then trying to get hired as a teacher, and finally I was trying to maintain my position and credibility as a teacher. Wearing dreadlocks is not exactly a cultural norm, especially in the circles I had to navigate in order to achieve some success. I also was dependant on my family for most of the time, and having dreads wasn’t exactly a family tradition. While I was growing so strong in my Rastafari livity, it pained me that I was not able to express my identity outwardly. I almost felt uncommitted, or rather, incomplete. Of course, “you don’t haffi to be dread to be Rasta” as Morgan Heritage sang, but more on that later. The invisible barriers that prevented me from locking may seem trivial, and for some it may have been easier to take the steps to lock their hair during all of those years... but I knew I had to find the right season. I can remember growing my hair out several times in preparation to natty up, and yet I just knew that the time was not right for whatever reasons. Sometimes I do wish that I had locked up say 4 or 5 years ago with a thicker head of hair and more youth behind me, but I do not regret it, because only JAH knows what could have happened to my doors of opportunity. I also believe that I had to be even more heartical and genuine in my Rastafari trod, because my Rasta heart was all I had. Everything happens for a reason in its due time and season.

So, obviously I finally did take that step to becoming a dreadlock Rasta. It was February 17, 2009. It was my second year of teaching and I had been talking about finally dreading since the year before. My friends and colleagues were encouraging, which was a very pleasant thing, and I was much more independent then I had been before since I had started my career... so the time was ripe. I had first seriously considered dreading my hair during the summer of 2008 after I returned from Trinidad and Suriname, but I didn’t have the chance. Then I thought about the holiday vacation with Christmas and New Years, but it was time spent with family and not really the appropriate moment to shock my poor mother. Finally winter vacation came in February and I knew that the right time had come. My good sistren helped me natty up my head. No need to discuss the details of the process, but it was exciting and foreboding all at once, because after that initial transformation I knew there was no going back. I had to step out into the light...

The first few months of my dread journey were awkward to say the least. Because of my hair type and texture (not to mention hair loss), I started my locks sectioned out into thin braids along with the use of some beeswax... a drastic change from my relatively long, combed, straight hair, which my Mom had time and again petitioned for me to cut in the first place. The revelation was calculated, I decided to first break it to my family in the company of one of my brothers for moral support... it may seem inconsequential, but you gotta know where I’m coming from. My Ma was speechless (which is a story unto itself), upon returning to my job my students and co-workers thought I lost a bet. I would get the stares and unwelcomed opinions of strangers. It had only been a matter of days, but it felt like I was living the lyrics to one of those old reggae songs where a son comes home and his friends and family are not very happy to see a dreadlocks. Yet I also received support from people, which was good to have in both my personal and professional life. I knew that I had gone too far along to quit or become discouraged, but I still had those days where I looked at myself in the mirror, with quasi-locks and receding hairline, and wondered what I was doing. With the impossible exception of work, I mostly hid them away under a bandana, or tam. I let them twist and grow at their own pace and eventually my hair got longer and fuller and most importantly... it actually started to lock. I started to feel more confident; rocking them out in public more often and just enjoying them, flashing them! They have matured over the year’s time and I am well proud. Whenever somebody invites me over, guess who’s coming to dinner... natty dreadlocks! Yeah!

The thing I learned the most during this year was the amount of patience required while taking this dread journey. Nothing is over night, and I still have a long ways to go, because a year is just the beginning. There are times when I still get frustrated, still adjusting to the new ways I must care for my locks, learning how to nurture them, and how to deal with the imperfections. In the end though, I know it is well worth it, because I feel that mystical power, that confidence, that mark of livication to Rastafari. It is a spiritual journey, a natural journey that must progress naturally. I feel the joy and happiness in having something that I felt was missing from my life for a long while. My desire to go dread was never a fashion thing, especially after so many years as a balhead Rasta. It is not a vanity thing, I’m sure I’d “look better” in a different style, but it is who I am. So no matter the time it takes, the flaws that manifest, or the difficulties that arise, I give thanks for my dreadlocks… and I will keep them as long as JAH provide.

Taking my personal story aside, I must express my sincere overstanding that dreadlocks do not make the Rastaman or Rastawombman. As I said before, my years as a balhead Rasta have given me an insight that I would never trade away. Rastafari is deeper than outward manifestations; it is much more than that. If and when the time and season arrives, and one is compelled to take on a component of Rastafari, like dreadlocking, like eating I-tal food, etc., then so shall it be. Rastafari is natural, it is organic, it grows, it knows, it flows… and when the time come, it come. People must learn that the first modern Rastas did not wear locks, rather they were beardsmen or combsome. I say “modern Rastas” because I&I know there have been Rastas since ancientcy. Founding fathers of the movement like Leonard Howell, Joseph Hibbert, Archibald Dunkley and Robert Hinds did not wear locks (at least that I know of). Prophet Gad, the leader of the Twelve Tribes of Israel did not wear locks upon his head. Marcus Garvey the prophet of Rastafari never wore locks. Finally of course, Ras Tafari, King Haile Selassie I Himself did not wear dreadlocks. If His Majesty did not wear locks, if Marcus did not wear locks, if Gadman did not wear locks... then what does a balhead Rasta have to fret over? So much hype and rhetoric has been attributed to wearing dreadlocks, but the wise will see how the most important figures in Rastafari, on any level, did not lock. Even many of the great reggae singers and players of instruments who identify as Rasta have not worn locks, for instance Toots Hibbert. This overstanding was certainly a source of comfort to me during that time when I had not dreaded up, and it should be a comfort to all my Rasta bredren and sistren who do not wear dreadlocks. Ones should also look to the ancient times. Although you had the Nazarites, like Samson, and Samuel, John the Baptist, and even Jesus (although He was a Nazarene not Nazarite), there were also ones like Elisha, the bald prophet, who was mocked and jeered because he was bald! I definitely took inspiration from that. All you would ever hear about was the biblical story of Samson and his hair, and nobody ever would speak of Elisha whom JAH used in even more powerful ways. The dread heart always triumphs, and Rastafari dwells in the heart.

Look around today and you will see many dreadlocked people, but not every dread is a Rasta and not every Rasta is a dread. There was once a time in Jamaica, during the formative years of the movement, that if you were found with locks, police would come and beat you, cut off your locks, and throw you in prison without any justification... just because you were a dread and under suspicion. Now, you have people wearing dreads for fashion, done in salons, and ironically some of these same people are actual criminals, giving the original locksmen a bad name. Anyone can wear dreads, most times if you talk to a dread on the street they won’t be able to tell you one thing about Rastafari, so on that end it is ignorancy. On the other side of the spectrum you have those dreads who flex in a malicious way, wolves in sheep clothing, using the image of the Rastafari for wicked intentions. Dreadlocks without the love, livication, and knowledge of history behind it are absolutely nothing but a hairstyle. Superficiality is far from reality.

So, I give thanks for the knowledge and wisdom I have been given over the years as a Rastaman, both as a baldheaded Rasta and a dreadlocked Rasta. Many more revelations have come along the spiritual journey of being a dread, but I know that it is just a natural progression forward for I-man. I look back at this year of experience, achievement and strength, and I look onward awaiting my next steps. I know that come what may, whether my locks grow ‘til they touch my toe, or if I am left without even one follicle upon my head, that I will always be a Rastaman to the bone. Know this my bredrens and sistrens! Everybody is just a part of the puzzle... come as you are and rally around Jehovah’s throne same way, cause I&I have works to do! I give thanks to JAH Rastafari for the inna-spuration to lock-up and the guidance along the way. I give thanks for my sistren who helps me with my dreads and teaches me to care for them properly. I give thanks to my friends who’ve encouraged I each day along on my dread journey. I finally give thanks to my family, who love and accept me for who I am, even my Ma has not had a discouraging word to say against my natty locks for many months! Let JAH be praised! Three hundred and sixty-five days since I threw the comb away... and counting!

Bless Up,
JAHsh

JAH Is Love

2010-02-14T21:45:00.001-05:00

JAH Is Love

She nah call up mi phone or even send me a text
Though she used to say dat mi loving was di best
Someting a gwan fe mek she go and join di rest
And dat type of gyal coulda never pass mi test

Is only when she want, dat I get her love and affection
Meh seh, who else but JAH gimme undivided attention
Cause now, no longer on her lips am I mentioned
Fe me depending on her love is just out a di question

JAH is love, and His love is what I need
Him gimme di strength I need to proceed
Cause time can get tough
And life can get lonely
Dat’s why El Shaddai is mi one and only

A woman's love can be short-lived and fickle
JAH love pour out, while she only have a trickle
Loving The Most High is so plain and so simple
But ooman play games and a go tease mi wid riddle

Why would I buy love when it’s already given freely
Dere is no greater love than dat of The Almighty
Yes it a permanent ting, and not temporary
When all else fails, I know dat JAH JAH love me

JAH is love, and His love is di light
Him gimme di strength to feel alright
Cause time can get tough
And life can get lonely
Dat’s why Faddah God is mi one and only

JAH love is everlasting and gimme di breath of life
Got too much to give, cyan badda deal wid di strife
Di first cut is di deepest so mi doan play wid knife
I wait for dat virtuous ooman to find and mek mi wife

It’s JAH who gimme di blessings and guides me each day
So to Him I give thanks as I kneel down and pray
Why should a dawta go and lead mi poor heart astray
Everyting she claim seh keep change from day to day

JAH is love, and His love is divine
Him gimme di strength for di front-line
Cause time can get tough
And life can get lonely
Dat’s why Yahweh is mi one and only

When di darkness come and di nights grow long
When everyting in life just seems fe go wrong
Dat’s when I haffi humble and go chant a psalm
Cause di Most High JAH has been wid me all along

No matter what happens I know dat He will guide
When ooman gimme cold shoulder, in JAH I confide
He pulls me back in when I’ve been pushed aside
Yes, In di Almighty’s hands is where I reside

JAH is love, and His love is so pure
Him gimme di strength I need to endure
Cause time can get tough
And life can get lonely
Dat’s why Rastafari is mi one and only

JMC
2/14/10
(c) 2010

Tears For Haiti

2010-01-17T15:00:00.000-05:00

Tears For Haiti

I cry tears for Haiti
Shaken to its core
Caught in destruction
As the world stands
Witness to the horror

So much suffering in Haiti
Lifeless bodies in the street
The little children look
Alone in desperation
No shelter from the heat

There is lamenting in Haiti
No place to bury the dead
Families don't know whether
Their missing have been
Packed into a truck bed

Mwen kriye pou Ayiti
Non, m' pa konprann...
Poukisa Ayiti soufri?
Ala traka pou yon malere
O JAH, ki sa ki te fè sa?
Sak pase konsa?...

I weep for Toussaint’s children
Buried in the ruble of Port-au-Prince
Oh Lord, where are your footprints?
Pou pase moun Pòroprens...

I pray for the soul of a nation
Oh JAH, lift up every Haitian
O Ayiti, pa enkyete nou...
JAH JAH... Li pa t'ap lage nou

JMC
1/17/10
(c) 2010

Livicated to the many thousands of victims of the Haiti Earthquake on Tuesday, January 12, 2010.

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

As we celebrate the life of Dr. King, please remember his words. Do all that you can to give a helping hand to our neighbors, brothers, and sisters in Haiti during this time of crisis.

Of My Family

2010-01-16T12:20:00.001-05:00

Much of life can be taken for granted. I suppose that it is part of some survival mechanism within us to make sure that we don’t freeze-up and over think what is going on around us. It doesn’t take a whole lot of actual thinking to go about your normal life. In fact, I would say that many people do not think at all... or at least in the way that I believe is true awareness. This true awareness comes to some more often than others, yet nobody I’ve know is constantly aware 100% of the time, no matter their exposure or experience. It is easy to take for granted having somewhere to live and sleep, something to wear, something to eat. It is easy to take your health and safety for granted. It is so easy to take your family for granted... family is the foundation to our very lives. H.I.M. Haile Selassie I once said, “when a solid foundation is laid, if the mason is able and his materials good, a strong house can be built.”

There are all kinds of families with all kinds of people in them. I have been so blessed to have a family that loves me and supports me. I really came to reflect upon this during the holiday season that just recently passed. It was the first time in some years that all of us were together again at the same time, my parents, my brothers, and myself. I felt like a youth again, enjoying the company of everyone and feeling good about life. It was the feeling that all too often got tucked away in my daily life, but when I took the time to meditate on it, it was overwhelmingly strong. As His Majesty would have put it, I grew up in a strong house.

My parents have always been there for me, even throughout the ordeals I put them through or the foolish choices that I have made. They have patiently watched me grow, and endured some of the unexpected twists and turns that my own journey has taken, perhaps far from their imagined outcome for me. They also have encouraged me when I have done well and achieved some success in life, being supportive. Finally, they have been there when I suffered, whether it was from physical injury or heartbreak. I’d like to think that all people have parents like this, but I know that when compared to so many, I am very fortunate. When I was growing up, all of us would sit down to a meal together every evening, even though my parents worked hard all day. We always had plenty to eat, we always had the comforts of a home. We always had what we needed, and more often than not we had what we wanted. I can’t imagine life without them, I can’t imagine not seeing them, not visiting with them and eating together, not sharing words, or thoughts, or time with them. No matter how old I become, I will always be their son, I will always be indebted to them for the love and comfort they have given me throughout my life. I hope that someday when I start my own family and become a parent, that I can share the same with my own children.

My younger brothers and I were best friends growing up. We all had our own friends of course, but at the end of the day all you had was each other. Being together during these past holidays, we could each recall the little things we enjoyed and had in common, or the different things that we would do when we were younger... things that nobody else would find any interest in at all. Although I am the oldest, they have taught me a lot in their own right. One has recently returned from the Peace Corps after two years of service, the other is working hard and being a progressive person. Both of them in their mid-twenties, I can remember when my 4 or 6 years of seniority used to give me some real or imagined pre-eminence. Now, we are all within the same life-stage, sharing some of the same experiences and the same aspirations. Our journeys thus far have shaped us into three different people as we’ve grown and branched out, but our roots are all intertwined. As with my parents, I can’t imagine what I would do without them. Since we’ve all grown up, we don’t see each other as often, but I always know that they’re there and that love is shared.

Along with my immediate family, I think of my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom are loving and kind people. I only have one grandparent left, my paternal grandmother, but I was lucky to know every one of them and share special times with each of them. Grandparents are a special force in your life, and I remember how much I loved them all, and of course I still love my Grandma. For my grandparents that lived close to me, they were like my second-set of parents; I learned life from a different perspective and from generations apart from my own. When they passed on, I can remember the grief I felt, and seeing the grief of my parents, always the strong pillars of my youth. One cannot replace family. Yet I know that they live on in our hearts and our minds. The loss of loved ones is something we all must inevitably face, and I suppose that sometimes it is the elderly members of our family that prepare us for that. I also think of the rest of my extended family as a way to learn socialization. For instance, I rarely see many of my cousins and we are often very far apart in terms of tastes and understandings, but they are family still, and you learn to appreciate them and overcome differences of opinion or lifestyle.

I think also of those that you make family. I have some special friends that I would consider my brothers and sisters, and fatherly or motherly mentors. These people are just as important to me as my own blood relations, because you share a special bond with them forged through individual experience. Friends come and go, but like Proverbs 18:24 says, “...there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” I am very thankful for this family of mine as well the one I was born into and I love them both. I have learned so much from this adopted family of mine. We might have different native cultures, different skin colors, different traditions, but through all of that we have become tethered to each other in a very mystical way. For some who may come from a shattered family, or those who may have never known their family, this family-of-choice may be the only one that they have. Indeed, an adopted family is family.

Finally, there is the human family... universal and all-encompassing. These thoughts about my own family have been on my mind for a few weeks, but by the time I began to write them down, a terrible tragedy has happened in Haiti. I cannot but help to be fully conscious of that in my reasoning here. No matter where we come from, what we look like, what language we speak, what religion we practice, we are all one human family, one blood. When I see and hear of the suffering happening to the Haitian people after the earthquake, my heart breaks and my soul cries. Loved ones dead and missing... the bodies of parents, children, friends... strewn about on the streets of Port-au-Prince. Possibly losing everyone you know and love, all at once... an entire nation in the depths of destruction. I cannot fathom it. I remember when my brother was living in New Orleans and attending school there when Hurricane Katrina hit. How worried my family and I were, how it pained my parents especially. Feeling that uncertainty, and looking now at this disaster strikes the core of my being.

When you see this suffering in Haiti, as a human-being, I feel one is compelled to reach out, to save one another, to love one another. I think there is uniqueness to this human family of ours, one that distinguishes us from the rest of God’s creatures... our empathy, or common humanity. The power that we have when we exhibit love, the power that can build a strong immediate family and extended family, is the same power to build our human family. How good and how pleasant it would be to see us live together as one. To love one another, to take care of one another, to learn from one another. Unfortunately it takes tragedy to bring us together (as is often the case in our own families) and usually when the storm calms, people tend to forget the suffering (again, as in our families). I pray that we take time to remember not only the Haitians, but all of our fellow humans suffering at this very moment. Most of all we must put some love into action, because real love is an active and lively love. A father or mother telling their child that they love them does not compensate for their actions and the showing of love. This holds true for humanity.

Family... it is the special bond that unites us. The intimacy of our own parents, wives, husbands, brothers, sisters, and children prepares us to love everyone. The family is our first schoolroom, and hopefully it is a place where we can fondly remember the lessons of life that we can further build upon. It offers a time of joy, of learning, of comfort, and sometimes pain. I know this was the case for me, but I know that it is not the case for others. Many have not had this “solid foundation” in their families for whatever reason. I also know that my family and all that I have could be gone in an instant. So I am eternally grateful to the Almighty for giving me such a family, on every level, and I dare not take it for granted. Being mindful of the blessings that I have received, I hope that one day I can use the same solid foundation to build my own house and extend that very same love I have experienced to my own children and their children... passing forward the legacy I've inherited since the time of creation. Thank you to my Mom and Dad, my brothers, my grandparents, all my relatives, my friends... and every man and woman on this earth. I love all of you.

Guidance,
JAHsh

Melkam Lidet!

2010-01-07T22:10:00.004-05:00

For many people, January 1st marks the end of the holiday season… unless you count the Super Bowl, which is usually at the end of the month or the beginning of February. The festivities are over, normalcy returns, and people settle back into their regular routines. It almost seems like there is nothing exciting to look forward to. So, the date of January 7th doesn’t even appear as a blip on the radar. To most it is simply another day. To Ethiopians however, it is Christmas Day. Many Rastafari, especially those who follow Ethiopian Orthodox traditions, also recognize this holiday as an important celebration of their faith.

Since the time I started to sight up Rastafari, I came to recognize “Lidet”, or the “Birth of Iyesus Kristos (Jesus Christ)” as the true Christmas. When trodding the road of a Rastaman, one approaches things in a more conscious and spiritual fashion. Looking through those spectacles at the so-called Christmas holiday that is celebrated in most of the world, it is not too difficult to see why someone such as a Rastafarian may question the authenticity and true purpose of the occasion. Today, it is a secular holiday more than anything else, often times stripped of even its own origins. For example, “Xmas” replaces Christ-mass, “Christ’s festival”, commemorating the birth of Jesus. The originally noble idea of exchanging gifts becomes perverted as the main focus, rampant with consumerism and commercialization. Debauchery replaces devout thanksgiving and reflection. Images of Santa Claus, Christmas trees, reindeer, and talking snowmen replace the image of the Christ. All of this may seem trivial, especially to the more religious followers of Christmas who spend their time in church and praying at nativity scenes, but if you dig deep enough one might question whether or not the Western Churches themselves have hijacked the celebration of the Christ’s birth.

In Ancient Rome, Christianity became the Empire’s official religion in the late 4th century A.D., thanks to the efforts of Constantine and his successor Theodosius. Long after Christ’s lifetime, it can be argued that adopting Christianity was a political maneuver for the decaying Roman Empire. By this time classic paganism was out of fashion, and Christianity seemed to be the proper fit, especially with a growing population of Gentile converts. The history of the process is much longer and more complex than I describe here, but to put it simply, Rome adopts, hijacks, or even creates the Christian religion as we understand it today, and establishes the Catholic Church and therefore all the churches succeeding from it… even down to the most fundamentalist non-denominational church. Where does Christmas fit in on all of this? …Conveniently, on December 25th, a pagan Roman festival and the date of the winter solstice. It is almost without any doubt that Jesus the Christ was not born on December 25th, it was chosen in order to replace one festival with another, merely changing the person it was intended for. Ironically, in our secular world the paganism of Santa Claus and the other popular Christmas motifs have replaced the Christ that the Romans presented.

Ethiopia, the cradle of humanity, and the ancient land described in the Scriptures themselves, offers the alternative to this “paganism” of the Western Christmas. Ethiopia’s special history is like no other in the world. This history stretches back to the dawn of time and before recorded history, but some of it is described in the Kebra Negast, or “Glory of Kings”. The ancient text shares how Ethiopians are descendants of Israelite tribes who came to Ethiopia with Menelik I, son of King Solomon of Israel and Makeda or the Queen of Sheba, from which His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I is the 225th descendant of this royal lineage. For thousands of years thereafter, Beta Israel, or the “House of Israel”, practiced ancient Hebraic customs found in the Old Testament. The connection to ancient Israel is so strong that Ethiopians to this day claim to have the Ark of the Covenant. When Christianity began to spread out from the Holy Land, one of the first places it reached was Ethiopia. According to history, Christianity existed in Ethiopia by 330 A.D., decades before Rome officially became Christianized. This unique brand of Christianity, coupled with the Hebraic history of Ethiopia, created a Messianic faith, closest to that found in the Bible, in Ancient Israel, and in the life of… Iyesus Kristos. This is why not only Ethiopian Orthodox Christians celebrate Lidet, but also the Rastafari people.

The way Ethiopia celebrates Lidet, or Genna as it is also known, is in stark contrast to that of Western Christmas. On the day before Lidet, people fast all day. Once this is done, they dress in their traditional clothing and attend mass. The people carry candles and join the priests who dress in their turbans and robes (the inspiration for the Bobo Ashanti Rastas) while carrying crosses and embroided umbrellas in solemn processions to their churches. The aroma of oils and incense fill the air, the sound of chanting and prayers. Traditionally, gifts are not exchanged, there are no Christmas trees, and there are no meaningless decorations. Ethiopian Christians have a large feast with family members in celebration of the Birth of Iyesus Kristos, and children play a ball game that legend says the shepherds played when they heard of Iyesus’ birth. Twelve days after Lidet, Timkat, the celebration of Iyesus Kristos’ baptism is celebrated, with more solemn processions accompanied by the sound of priests playing their sistrums along with the rhythmic taping of their makamiya prayer-sticks. It is a beautiful reflection of an ancient moment in time, in a land where the people are historically and actively Christian.

Ye-Genna Be'al, “The Christmas Holiday”, of Ethiopia is a Christmas of spiritual significance, religious observance, feasting and time with family. This is why, as a Rastaman, I observe Lidet in my heart. I give thanks for the coming of I&I Lord and Savior, Iyesus Kristos, offering prayers to the Most High! I give thanks with a purpose! This is not to say that I did not spend time with my family celebrating and rejoicing on December 25th. To me, I don’t really see that day as the True Christ-mass, but I give thanks to JAH still, and I spend precious time with loved ones. Fortunately, my family is not driven by the Babylon concept of Xmas and so I am comfortable celebrating with them, because it is a senseless and backwards thing to try and change a traditional day around. Instead, it is about changing the heart around. Even the King of Kings, Haile Selassie I, addressed Christian Americans on December 25th, sending them well wishes on this “blessed day for mankind”. In an interview on another Christ-mass Day, H.I.M. Haile Selassie I said that, "The birth of Our Lord is a joyous family event" and that "…The birth of Christ is celebrated all over the world. When I say the whole world it does not mean that all people would observe it in the same manner". So, who better to follow in this time than King Selassie I? His wise words reveal to me that even though Lidet represents Roots Christianity, the intentions and love of the heart are what really celebrate Iyesus Kristos, be that on December 25th or January 7th.

Give thanks to the Lord and Savior Iyesus Kristos, Yeshua Ha'Mashiach, for unto I&I a child is born and unto I&I a Son is given! Give thanks also to Haile Selassie I, Defender of the Faith, and Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah! Blessed be this day, Lebrhane Lidetu!, “Light of the Birth of the Lord Jesus Christ”. Melkam Lidet! Melkam Ye-Genna Be’al! Blessed Christ-mass to all!

Rastafari,
JAHsh

Flee From The City

2009-12-31T22:00:00.002-05:00

Flee From The City

Babylon gettin’ busy
Must flee from the city
Too much wickedness
Too much iniquity
Not even safe for
Doggie or kitty
Betta run fast
It nah look pretty

Take a look around on the streets
People wear the mark of the beast
Trouble run from west to the east
Vampires dem all come out to feast

Women getting raped and violated
Whole life ruined and desecrated
Reminded by their belly inflated
Baby having baby, its understated

Alcohol and coke get out of control
Hard drugs circulate like blood flow
Gun fire cuts short all potential
Sending another youth to a burial

Population overrun by sheer poverty
Not enough food for the little pickney
Mommy and Daddy have no job security
Families get destroyed by infidelity

Politricksters wait to steal the elections
Winning with their criminal interventions
Using the church to take up collections
Hiring police to fight insurrections

Not enough money to fund good education
All the youths just learn from imitation
Ignorance and folly make bad combination
Nobody to raise-up the next generation

Must flee from the city
And run to the hills
Where the green grass grow
And the blood nah spill
JAH children behave
And act civil
Cause the fyah ah go bun
And wipe out all evil

JMC
12/31/09
(c) 2009

Awful Truth

2009-12-30T15:00:00.002-05:00

Awful Truth

Oh Truth, how I praise thee
And yet, sometimes I recoil in fear
For when You are near
What is hidden is brought to light
Ugliness, wickedness... weakness
What I think I’ve seen, is unseen
What I think I know, is unknown
The heart breaks and the soul cries
As what lies beneath the lies
Is exhumed...
The stench looms in revelation
And false reality crumbles

Oh, I wish I could employ You
To give me only a portion
To leave me in complacency
Avoiding the harsh agony
That seems to follow after You
I confess, my flesh will always
Be offended by Your Power
Not partial...
Not understanding...
Obedient only to righteousness
So therefore I can only submit
Standing in awe... Full Truth

JMC
12/30/09
(c) 2009

Lucid

2009-11-28T01:30:00.002-05:00

Lucid

A soft glow broke the darkness
And then her name appeared...
For seconds, I could only look
As I mistook the cadence of the call
With the palpitations of my heart
It started pulling apart my sleep
And so I reached out for the source
This lucid torch in the blackness
Groping for, hoping for the chance
To hear her voice, to catch her trance
Yet my hand combed the expanse
Of dark décor in my bedroom corner
Until light could be seen no longer
And the stillness of night returned
A quiet slumber fell upon me
Murky haze had filled my eyes
My conscious already capsized
Tumbling me into a sea of dreams
Where it seemed like I was there
Enveloped between her warmth
Or the thoughts of such...
While I lay curled up alone
Disturbed by my phone

JMC
11/28/09
(c) 2009

Kingly Character: A Narrative

2009-11-02T18:30:00.004-05:00

Imagine a world on the very edge of crisis. The radios and newspapers are full of rumors of war and in just a mere matter of years these rumors will manifest on a scale unseen before. In Germany and Italy, fascism begins to spill out from obscure corners, bleeding radicalized thoughts that start to captivate entire nations of people, while in turn attempting to annihilate others. In Soviet Russia, harsh state policies and suppression have many living in fear of Stalin's power. In Asia, unbridled imperialism is on the rise and nations will be falling into chaos. The United States is in the throes of an economic failure and the effects of the Great Depression are becoming a harsh reality. Finally, the colonial powers of Europe still have their talons sunk into Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean with no end in sight. Some months ago, Mohandas Gandhi lead the non-violent Satyagraha movement of the Purna Swaraj in the Salt March in India, inspiring Indians to resist the British Empire... but since then violent clashes and massacres have made the headlines. This was the climate of 1930, a time of upheaval and a year of uncertainty.

During this same time, on November 2, 1930, a man of small stature known as Ras Tafari Makonnen is proclaimed Emperor of Ethiopia. He is given the name Haile Selassie I, "Might of the Trinity", and the titles "King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, and Elect of God". Later on, Selassie I will also take the title “Defender of the Faith” for his devotion to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Christianity in general. He now sits on the ancient throne of Ethiopia, a country seemingly forgotten by time, yet at the very root of human history. His coronation makes him the 225th Emperor of Ethiopia, a lineage claiming descent from King Solomon of ancient Israel. More than just a legend, the Ethiopian people had upheld the tradition of ancient Hebraic religious practices for thousands of years as well as a claim to possess the Ark of the Covenant. When Christianity arrived in Ethiopia, it was an ancient brand, untouched by the politicization of the faith by the Roman Empire. Finally, Ethiopia remained the only African country to resist European colonization (besides Liberia), having defeated the Italian invaders in the Battle of Adwa in 1896. This is the legacy that His Imperial Majesty now inherits. All eyes seem to gaze on Haile Selassie I, especially the envious eyes of Mussolini, who in a few years will seek a twisted form of revenge against Ethiopia for the Italian defeat at Adwa.

Now imagine living in Jamaica during the year 1930, a small island nation under the rule of the British Empire. Three years ago an outspoken activist, Marcus Garvey, had told those who would listen to look to Africa for the crowning of a black king. He has been encouraging Jamaicans and other people of the African Diaspora to unite and join together, to resist white colonial powers, and repatriate back to Africa to live in their ancestral homeland and fight against outside aggressors. His message of black pride has been popular with the struggling class, eking out a living from days spent on sugarcane plantations in rural communities. Stories and photos have circulated before on Ras Tafari Makonnen, the visits he made to various countries, the power and dignity he seemed to possess… something that seemed so far out of reach for the common man, a black man in the western hemisphere. Growing up in church, you’ve long heard stories from preachers and ministers about the Promised Land, Israel captivated by the Babylonians, the wise King Solomon, the Ark of the Covenant, and of the Book of Revelations. Sometimes the trials of your life and your loved ones seem to echo the accounts written in the Bible. Suddenly in a November news article, you read of Ras Tafari on his Coronation Day… a black king of this mystical nation, Ethiopia, crowned emperor! You see photos of him and his queen in their robes, surrounded by all nations of people. You find out that Emperor Haile Selassie I is given the very same titles, “King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of Judah…” revealed in the Scriptures, names that follow the coming of Jesus Christ. This is prophecy revealed! Soon, preachers like Leonard Howell and Joseph Hibbert help bring about the Rastafari movement… though a movement, some would say, established since Creation.

Forward on to now. Rastafari has grown since that day in November of 1930, His Imperial Majesty’s Coronation. It has become worldwide. However, first we must look to H.I.M. Haile Selassie I himself, because the story did not end with H.I.M. being crowned emperor of an ancient monarchy, even though that is all it took for him to earn the adoration and reverence of millions. His story is that of a wise and benevolent leader, for whom there has been no comparison in terms of importance and accomplishment. He fought against the evil forces of Italian fascism and imperialism, and still offered forgiveness for his transgressors. He stood with defiance before the League of Nations and later boldly addressed the United Nations. His leadership brought light to the African continent, for so long perceived and dismissed as the “Dark Continent”. He helped establish the Organization of African Unity. He addressed human rights without regard to color or creed, at home and abroad. He shared his rule with his people, giving the Ethiopians their first constitution and handing down liberties unknown before in his nation. He helped build schools and hospitals in an effort to modernize his country while keeping its traditional integrity. He met with leaders of nations from all over the world, and visited their countries. Although a devout Ethiopian Orthodox Christian he had an ecumenical outlook and met with various other church leaders even building relations with the Vatican and with other religious faiths such as Islam. He visited Jamaica and Trinidad and met with Rastafari elders there, as well as political leaders to discuss the well-being of his admirers and followers in the West. He also gave a portion of land called Shashamane in Ethiopia as a show of support to those Rastafari people and those of the African Diaspora who wished to repatriate back to Africa. While all of these are significant achievements, they only skim the surface because there so many more things to mention on His Majesty. However it shows that H.I.M. Haile Selassie I was not a mere symbol or relic of some biblical dynasty… he is the Comforter in this time!

Rastafari is a worldwide phenomenon now, with all kinds of people from all parts of the earth, but some forget about why I&I chant “Rastafari”. It is because of His Majesty! As made known, the Emperor speaks for himself. His wisdom equaled that of his ancestor, Solomon. He showed what it meant to be a follower of Iyesus Kristos (Jesus Christ), revealed Christ in His Kingly Character, and showed a way of peace to the people of the world. His utterances and his actions will outlast and endure throughout the ages. He came to power during a time of war and calamity and guarded over JAH people, his nation and those of others, like a shepherd guards his flock. He encouraged people to have a spiritual outlook, to love JAH, and take care of one another. He encouraged progressive behaviors. Surely JAH Spirit dwelled within H.I.M., the Holy Spirit of the Comforter. Rastas declare to the nations that Haile Selassie I is the foundation in this time… all Rastafari venerate and follow Selassie I. Not all within the movement may agree on how to uphold H.I.M., but it is love and respect that reign over the different points of view because nobody can deny Selassie I and his example. So, I hail H.I.M. up as an ambassador to the King of Kings! Give thanks for the crowning of Haile Selassie I!

Hail The Comforter,
JAHsh

Walking Dead

2009-10-31T21:15:00.003-04:00

Walking Dead

They're just another one of the walking dead
Brainwash education and get the youths mislead
They take away the Truth and give you lies instead
'Til your skull get bore just like pumpkin head

They only feed you lies upon more lies
Until it bulge straight out from your eyes
They tell you that you can reach the skies
But they just want to see you victimized
They suck you dry of all your motivation
Locked away with no chance of probation
While they build up their Babylon nation
And trample upon all of JAH creation
They're moving about in the darkness of night
Pushing their plague, spreading their blight
Yet I know the shadow flees from the light
Oh Mighty JAH JAH, give me Your holy sight

They're just another one of the walking dead
Brainwash education and get the youths mislead
They take away the Truth and give you lies instead
'Til your skull get bore just like pumpkin head

The truth is sometimes stranger than fiction
My people, time you get this depiction
Babylon is causing too much damn friction
And the youths are a victim of affliction
JAH seh so, see all the dead men walking
Heart still ah beat and mouth keep talking
Yes, it's JAH People that they're stalking
They want to see you lying in a coffin
No, they won't rest 'til you join the rest
Want to cut you down and eat up your flesh
Wicked man, why do you cause so much distress
Enslaving my people, and getting them suppressed

They're just another one of the walking dead
Brainwash education and get the youths mislead
They take away the Truth and give you lies instead
'Til your skull get bore just like pumpkin head

Look, in this time it's a real big scare
They legalize abortion but resist new healthcare
They're only looking out for their own share
But when they see a poor man, no nickel to spare
Euthanizing the people in the ghetto of the city
But still talking about some death panel committee
Trying to fool the public, they act without pity
Wish I could see a change, but it's not pretty
I only see vampires with their evilous plans
Ghosts hiding behind sheets like the Ku Klux Klan
They say time change, but I see blood on their hands
I say you must never bow, nor meet their demands

They're just another one of the walking dead
Brainwash education and get the youths mislead
They take away the Truth and give you lies instead
'Til your skull get bore just like pumpkin head

JMC
10/31/09
(c) 2009

The Fix

2009-08-16T21:45:00.000-04:00

The Fix

I struggle without it
Start to lose my mind
The hours pass slowly
And I become fully
Agitated... by all of the
Idiot ting surrounding me
People hounding me
All of it downing me
Can’t think straight
It’s hard to wait
When it seems
Without end
I’d spend my last dollar
Just for a fix...
A mix of the finest kind
Fresh from Jamaica
Or maybe Trinidad
Guyana, South Africa
Even Germany or Japan
I need it bad, man
I have to check the one
Named VP...
Him have good quality
Or maybe Greensleeves
I’d even go as far
To find the one, JetStar
Just to get my hands on
My one single passion
And when I get ready
To nice up my medi
I tear off the wrapper
Assail with tooth and nail
I need it, just...
One draw of the One Drop
Oh, I’ve tried to stop
But when it hits... you feel ok
So, hit me...
Hit me with music
Sweet reggae music

JMC
8/16/09
(c) 2009

A Dove Tale

2009-08-14T21:05:00.005-04:00

A couple of days ago I stopped by my parent’s house after work for some dinner. My Dad wasn’t home at the time, but I ate and spoke with my Mom. Afterward while preparing to leave, I went into my car in order to throw out some trash. When I turned around to walk back towards the car my mother and I noticed a Mourning Dove had flown down and perched on the roof right above the driver’s side. I suppose that wasn’t too odd in itself, but I started to become curious as the bird just stayed there. I started to edge closer... and closer, all the while thinking that the dove would feel its natural instinctive fear of humans and fly off in a moment, but it didn’t. As I kept heading for it I took out my phone and used the camera to get a picture; still, no flying away. Finally I reached the car and I was literally looking at the bird face to face. I could see into its small black eyes as it bobbed its little head, I could see every little detail in its plumage, every crease in its orange feet. I took more pictures, even a little video clip... astonished by the fact that it wasn’t scared. It just sat there looking around, occasionally dipping down to drink some beads of rain water on my car. Once in awhile it made a soft cooing sound. I was quite baffled, and my Mom came out and stood next to me... both of us gawking at the creature. It reminded me of the famous movie scene where apes cautiously approach a mysterious black monolith in the film “2001: A Space Odyssey”. The Mourning Dove did not appear injured or seem to be in any pain. We found that it could flap its wings and fly a distance when it wanted, but it really liked hanging out there with us. I half-jokingly asked my Ma what she would do if the bird just started talking. It would be Old Testament style... Balaam and the talking donkey (Numbers 22:1-35). Then she mentioned that, “maybe it was Grandpa or Grandma”. Maybe. I guess that requires a short side-story.

Growing up, my maternal grandparents and I lived on the same block, and later on, a couple blocks away. I can remember always hearing Mourning Doves with their soft low call, cooah, woo, woo, woo. It was almost like the neighborhood’s trademark... a strangely peaceful and melancholy sound at the same time. You would always see them sitting together on power lines or tree branches, one beside the other. I learned later that Mourning Doves are monogamous. That fact definitely reminds me of my grandparents, they were in a strong loving relationship for most of their life. My grandfather was the first to pass away and I was 15 at the time. When a stone was prepared for the cemetery plot, my grandma wanted a picture of two doves sitting together on a rose branch. Seven years later, she too passed on. The Mourning Doves, both in their life and in their absence, forever remain symbolic of my grandparents in my heart. Even the lamenting calls of the doves remind me of how I still miss them. Back to the present...

The bird was still there perched on my roof. It slid down my windshield once. It also left a little “present” for me on the window. Something its feathered brethren often do, although I rarely catch them doing it so unabashedly right before my eyes. As my Ma went to get some leaves to clean up the mess, I wanted to pick up the bird, partly out of curiosity and partly to gently remove the fellow so that I could get going. But I was stopped by my mother who told me to not touch it because of parasites and the like... whatever it was just a bird, but I wasn’t going to argue. Several minutes ago we began talking to it, “ok Mr. Bird, you gotta move now... time to go”. And even funnier, “if you have something to say to us, say it now ‘cause Josh has to go”. No response. So, soon after my Mom shooed it away with a little leafy branch. It didn’t choose to fly though, but rather strut around on the street. It reminded me of another bird story from my childhood. My Grandpa once brought over a paper bag to the same house. Inside was a pigeon. A rather strange pigeon that didn’t fly but walked in circles... it was very peculiar but it must have been hurt or knocked in the head too hard. My brothers and I affectionately named it “Bert” after Ernie and Bert and the latter’s love of pigeons. That pigeon would run around in circles, I’d pick it up and it would glide in circles. Eventually Bert flew off my arm and away in the sky... in one giant sweeping circle. I was quite proud. Anyway, pigeons and doves are close cousins... so the strange behavior of this one had me reflecting on that moment from the past.

Eventually I left, my Ma waving goodbye and the Mourning Dove safely off the street sitting on an electric box, looking at me. I said bye to both of them and decided to drive to the cemetery to the top of the hill. I used to visit my grandparents here often when the wounds of the heart were all too fresh. We also used to walk together in this peaceful cemetery when I was a child. Something about it is very serene. As I looked upon the stone, I saw the two doves sitting on the rose branch and below that, the name of my grandpa and my grandma carved into the black granite. I stood there and said a prayer. I really did wonder, was there a message for us? Just a few weeks ago I had been in an art museum and saw a painting of the Portland Bridge (or the Arrigoni Bridge for the highbrows) from an angle that would have been from the unique vantage point of the house where my deceased friend used to live… it had been the day of his birthday. That had to be a sign... I don’t believe in coincidences, but rather JAH-incidents... meaningful, purposeful things. Was this Mourning Dove one too? I did have a deep conversation about society and humanity with my mother before I even left the door of the house... but who knows.

The whole incident, the Dove Tale, could be a sign, or it could be of no significance... but it does have me a little more aware of things. Even just sharing those few minutes in such proximity to one of JAH’s wild creatures made me ponder the whole relationship between humans and animals and plants. Do we need to step back more often, look into the eyes of the beasts and consider JAH creation? Do we need to be open for a message... a message like the donkey spoke to Balaam, and making an ass out of a prophet. Do our ancestors look after us, ambiguously revealed in familiar echoes from the past? Was it the Most High just saying, “Hello”? Things to think on...

Blessings,
JAHsh

Livicated to my grandparents, Edmond and Philomena Gioielli.

Attitude Of Gratitude

2009-08-10T19:05:00.002-04:00

When was the last time you sat down and ate a meal? I mean really ate, like taking slow bites and savoring each flavor. If you try it, it can be a completely different experience from the usual wolfing-down food on the go. You discover flavors that you were previously unaware of, and you become satisfied with smaller portions of things. I’ll be the first to admit that I am usually guilty of eating too fast and too much... but I’ve been more conscious of that lately and it has caused me to think beyond food and propose this question: When was the last time you savored the flavor of life?

In this day and age it is so easy to forget about the very vital things that sustain our lifestyles, let alone our very lives. We wake up each morning taking for granted that we have actually woken up. We have food to prepare a breakfast, or we have the money to buy some. Speaking of money, most of us have sources of income, so we can take care of our needs and our wants. We have shelter, we have comforts. We have family, and friends among us. Yet one thing most of us act like we don’t have is time. Why is it that we have so much abundantly set before us, and we never bother to consider how blessed we really are. We overlook all that we have, and instead desire what we don’t have. We never really taste the goodness of life, we just nyam it down.

Try taking the time to give thanks during the day at every moment possible even if it seems like there is nothing to be thankful for... because there always is. Even if you were to have nothing, which is rare but almost possible, then give thanks for every draw of breath, every beat of the heart, every little second onward against the tide of struggle. It requires a great deal of humbling of the self and magnifying of the Almighty. I know that some people do not believe in God, but as a Rastaman I have to give thanks and praise to the Creator and Sustainer of Life... Yahweh, Jehovah. I give thanks for the love and sacrifice of the Savior, Iyesus Kristos. I give thanks for the wisdom and faithfulness of King Selassie I. I give thanks for all the prophets, the freedom fighters, and the lovers of humanity. I give thanks that life has a purpose to it, that there is a rhythm... and you just have to tune in. When you're in sync, it is easier to go forward in confidence.

Take a moment to pray, to show some gratitude. Many things come forth from a grateful spirit. For instance, being thankful will help you become happier, healthier, more satisfied, more caring and more aware. Take time to acknowledge creation, the plants, and the animals, the small and wondrous things that we often just pass by. If you did so, you would know JAH because creation reflects the Creator! Gratitude can change your doubt into faith, your weaknesses into strength. And if you don’t sight up the Most High but say you are grateful, then who are you really showing gratitude to? It’s bigger than you, or me, or any man or woman. Yet people are so vain and confused, sometimes they’d rather say that aliens came down and genetically manufactured us rather than admit that there is a God. Go praise some Martians if you want... but I can’t sight that up, not at all!

Gratitude should be a continuous attitude, it should be part of one’s lifestyle (or as we say in Rastafari, livity) and not just for a particular occasion. When you have gratitude it allows the peace of JAH to reign in the heart even amidst troubles. When you honor and glorify the Most High it eradicates the trivial worries, the selfish wants, and the despair that can form when you don’t clean up your mind and heart. When you practice being thankful, all of those burdens just slip off because you give them no foothold. It’s not a magic wand and not everything will go as you would like, but you will see things in a different way when you have a thankful heart because it helps you to keep counting the blessings rather than overlooking them. Being grateful for even the smallest of things can make a huge difference on your outlook on life. And just like a delicious dish that you take time on, life too will taste a little bit sweeter... I guarantee it!

All Praises Due to JAH! Rastafari! Keep an attitude of gratitude!

JAHsh

Old Friend

2009-08-06T06:55:00.002-04:00

Old Friend

It sure has been awhile
When did I see you last?
Yes, it was somewhere
Amongst scraps of paper
Napkins, tickets, receipts
All of those improper sheets
Before I moved into that
Empty pad on Writer’s Block
We used to converse all the time
With lines of prose and rhyme
Wow, I have so much to tell you
Of all my travels and trials
All of the things that I’ve done
It really has been too long
May I confide in you again?
It’s good to see you, old friend

JMC
8/5/09
(c) 2009

Forbidden Love

2009-08-05T00:30:00.004-04:00

Forbidden Love

I dived into her
With no life vest
No vessel
Just passion
Swimming through her
To the depths of her heart
Tenderly embraced and
Lapped by her waves
Until tempest blew
And changing winds
Flailed me against her
As I grew weary
Drifting further away
Greeted only with
Cold stony shores
The surf receding
I was still breathing
Yet a cast away
Muddy sand
Caked on my skin
Salty brine
Against my cheeks
A fool in a tidal pool

JMC
8/4/09
(c) 2009

Still Haffi Shine

2009-08-04T19:45:00.003-04:00

Still Haffi Shine

When the wicked people try to tarnish my name
I still haffi shine
When they try to use me for their personal gain
Still haffi shine
Even when a woman leave me with a heart full a pain
I still haffi shine
The world could change but the Truth will still remain
So I still haffi shine

Cause it is time, I have to break loose
Remove my neck outa Babylon noose
They only want to see me suffer
And get me confused
But that is not the type of life that I choose
The system try fe make me bend
Sometimes I can’t even trust a friend
So Jah Jah send…
Give me just a little light
So I can turn away evil and bring forth the right

When they try to mix me in their dutty little game
I still haffi shine
When they try to put out my eternal flame
Still haffi shine
Even when they try to make me trim my lion’s mane
I still haffi shine
The world has gone crazy and that is such a shame
So, I still haffi shine

If it was up to them, I’d be in big problem
They’d lock me in a prison or insane asylum
Just because they see me...
Give thanks and praises
And dash away the fire of those hell-raisers
Can’t stand it no more so I haffi strengthen up
Keep myself sharp
Cause the system’s so corrupt
And meh know, it just a matter of time
Before Babylon has to pay for its crime

Still, still, still haffi shine
Strengthen up the body and the soul and the mind
When they do me evil, I will never resign
Cause come what may, I still haffi shine

JMC
8/4/09
(c) 2008

Things & Time

2009-07-31T15:36:00.002-04:00

Greetings! It is amazing how quickly time flies by. Seasons come and go, and the next thing you know it has become almost a year. I realized this and decided that it was time for me to get back on track with a few things. I figured a great way to start this would be to write about some of the changes that have happened within this past year...

Looking backward, the last time I actually took a little time to post something was after the results of last year’s presidential election. Well, needless to say much has happened since that time. Obviously, we have our first African-American president, which is a really great thing. I had so many things that I had wanted to write about and share during that time, but the pace of life was a bit overwhelming. In any case, it has been a refreshing six months with Mr. Obama in office. What astonishes me though is how many haters there are already. Have Americans forgotten the amount of rubbish Obama has inherited as President? Are people that scared of reform, change, and sacrifice? Are people impatient and expecting too much? I’m not sure what the general public believes, but I for one still have faith in the man. I know full well that I will not be pleased by everything that he does, but being a president involves having to make compromises and different choices sometimes in order to establish something greater. We shall see what comes down the road.

Besides the new presidency, I was in the midst of completing CT’s notorious BEST Portfolio in order to keep my job as a teacher. If there was one reason why a barren wasteland replaced my field of thoughts and poems, this was it. Teaching alone is a very intense job, you are always creating, thinking, and making decisions, so it is exhausting at times. Well, keeping that in mind, imagine having to do a huge amount of tedious planning, reflecting, and paperwork in addition to the usual job requirements and what you get is a stressed-out mess. I am so thankful that that arduous task is over. I believe I did a good job, but my results are still forthcoming. I’m not worried though... so BEST, get thee behind!

This year I had decided to finally dreadlock my hair. As a Rastaman, this is something that I’ve wanted to do for a long time, but circumstances didn’t always allow for it. There is still a stigma about having locks in society, let alone as a teacher and public servant. I wanted to wait until I had established myself and let people know me from the heart. In fact, being a baldheaded Rasta during the past 7 years or so has given me the ability to mature in that heartical sense, so that by the time I decided to lock, it was merely a visible affirmation of what’s been within for a long time. In all honesty, I was also motivated to dread by the fact that if I waited too long, I may not have any hair left! This doesn’t mean that locking my hair wasn’t met by opposition, strange looks, and criticism, especially during the first awkward stages. Yet, enduring that with patience has brought me to really be happy with my dreads. They still have a long way to go, but the progress has been amazing. Since I’ve begun my dreadlocks I also feel fulfilled in a way that I couldn’t quite feel before... something almost mystical. I will definitely share more vibes about my dread journey in due time.

This past year has also been eventful because I finally reached Jamaica, which has an obvious influence on me in a variety of ways. Travelling has been something that I’ve not been able to do on my own up until recently. Once again, circumstances. So, I am so thankful for the journey I was able to take. I was able to see many parts of the country and reason with fellow Rastafari people. I also made a trip to the Twelve Tribes of Israel headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica. I am a member of that particular organization in America, so it was a real blessing to go where it all started and meet some of the elders. I already had know so much about the culture, the history, the people, and the music of Jamaica… but there is nothing like stepping foot there and experiencing it, especially from a natural point of view. I hope to reach Ethiopia someday and have a similar type of experience! There are many places in this world where I must trod and behold.

As it shows, this year has been a blessing in many ways, and I give thanks for that! It has also been a very busy time, and some of the changes have not always been as positive. The stress and pace work, the blows dealt to the heart by failed romance, the lack of creativity, and the failure to keep healthy routines have all taken a toll on me. That is why I’ve decided to make a few changes to strengthen up the livity and make things a little bit easier and satisfying. I will definitely share more about that as progress is made. One thing this year has taught me is that life can go in so many directions, heights and depths… but I must always remember myself and take care of myself in order to sustain that journey. There comes a time to revitalize and reevaluate, and that time has come for me. Give thanks for life, and hold a meditation!

JAH Bless,
JAHsh

JAH Bless President-elect Barack Obama!

2008-11-05T09:45:00.001-05:00

It is the early morning hours on the night after Election Day and I just had to express a few thoughts. I am overwhelmed with joy, and with hope. Barack Obama has been elected as the 44th president of the United States! It is hard for me to even articulate my feelings at this time but I am so very proud to be an American and to have witnessed this important moment in U.S. and World history. My confidence was not in vain… I knew in my heart that American voters could not pass up such an opportunity for change and progression. I was moved to tears by the speech that President-elect Barack Obama gave tonight because I have never experienced having a leader that inspires and gives hope to the country in the way that he does... it is simply contagious. I also thought I would never live to see a black president... before now, America didn't even have a president or vice-president outside of an Anglo-American background. This is truly epic. I can only envision a positive and bright future ahead of us. That being said, fyah pon all of those weakhearts and doubters who even now continue to discredit the achievement and potential of Mr. Obama... if ones cannot come together and unite with a common interest in this crucial time, then they are working to destroy the will of the people and the works of the Most High. Peace-loving people will not tolerate any more fear mongering or foolish talk; it is a new age and a new season. JAH Bless the new President of the United States and guide him in all his endeavors! This is a wonderful time to be alive, and I am glad to share this experience with my students as their teacher. I will be celebrating this event for a long time and I anxiously await Inauguration Day. If you believe, then you can achieve! Yes we can!

Bless Up Obama!,
JAHsh

The Eve of Hope

2008-11-03T07:25:00.001-05:00

78 years ago today, Ras Tafari Makonnen was crowned Emperor Haile Selassie I alongside his wife Empress Menen in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Ever since that time "King Alpha" and "Queen Omega" have been righteous examples for humanity, inspiring the Rastafari movement and all of the great freedom fighters, singers, musicians, and humble servants of the Most High that have united underneath the red, gold and green banner during the last century.

I can only imagine the enthusiasm felt by the Garveyites and the first Rastas like Leonard Howell during the time of Selassie's coronation in 1930. Marcus Garvey's prophecy that said to look toward Africa for a black king came to fruition. Finally Africans at home and abroad had a king of their own that they could acknowledge. Yet this joy wasn't exclusive to Africans alone, people and leaders from nations all around the world knew that this was no ordinary secular king who was crowned (they only had to read the Scriptures and ancient tomes of history). There is no doubt that the life, wisdom and teachings of His Imperial Majesty have continued to inspire generation after generation of people from all colors and creeds, regardless of how they sight up his character.

Now, I don't intend to compare Barack Obama to the personality of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I, but I can't help but feel an excitement in this time and recognize this same feeling of excitement in millions of others who share it with me. This "Eve of Hope" as I call it must be something like that moment 78 years ago. However, this time we have the power to elect our leader, we have the opportunity to make a right and proper choice.

I am not one to invest myself in what I&I call "politricks" and I have no faith in politricksters. However, something truly seems different about Barack Obama. It is not because of his racial background and the significance behind that, those are not the measurements of a good leader… it is because for the first time, this man, a regular man with a true, fair, and accessible vision is offering something new to the American people and ultimately to people from all around the world as well. From the very first time I heard Mr. Obama speak, I was moved in such a deep way that I knew this man was an exceptional person and that he could be the answer to America's problems. His intelligence, integrity and determination are a breath of fresh air in the stale room of politics. Obama's leadership and philosophy is what this country needs and I believe in the change that he offers.

It is hard to believe that in only two days from now, we will elect a new president of the United States. I am confident that Americans will make the right choice and I am confident that things in America will begin to change for the better once Barack Obama and his wife Michelle occupy the White House. There are so many naysayers and hatemongers spreading propaganda in order to try and stop this from happening, but the voice of the people is the voice of JAH. Opposition is nothing new, Mussolini had his eyes on Ethiopia even as His Majesty was crowned, and every good and decent leader throughout history has had to fight against evil. But the age of fear is over and hope is on the horizon ready to chase the wicked back into darkness. It is amazing to see the possibility of a black president only a few decades after the Civil Rights Movement and less than 150 years after slavery in America was abolished. It goes to show that good will always prevail and that for the most part Americans are progressive and altruistic people. Imagine now having a leader who can foster those same ideals and restore America's reputation as a beacon of freedom and equality to the world.

Haile Selassie I's titles were King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Elect of God and Defender of the Faith. I hope that on Tuesday night we can dub Mr. Barack Obama as President of the United States, Leader of the Free World, the Elect of the American People, and Defender of the American Dream. Perhaps King Selassie's Coronation on a Sunday, November 2, 1930 is a sign of the future and a benediction for Obama on this Sunday today, November 2, 2008.

Vote on Election Day, Nov. 4th!... JAH Rastafari!

JAHsh

Dull Blade

2008-10-04T02:00:00.001-04:00

Dull Blade

Too long I been cutting through this Babylon jungle
Working hard day by day
With all my might I fight for the African struggle
Now it ah go dull my blade
I need a rest so I can strengthen my structure
But Babylon won't behave
I need some time to strengthen my mind
But the system wants to enslave

Too much information
It ah go dull my blade
Too much aggravation
It ah go dull my blade
No time for meditation
It ah go dull my blade
No time for creation
It ah go dull my blade

I need a bredren who can reason 'til seven
So I can sharpen my blade
I need a sistren who will sit down and listen
So I can sharpen my blade
I need to read up the Psalms of David
So I can sharpen my blade
I need to hear the utterance of Selassie
So I can sharpen my blade

And then I will cut and go through
Ready with machete it no matter what they do
Rastaman will cut and go through
Ready, holding steady fighting for me and you
Binghi-man will cut and go through
I won't let the wicked dem make me inna fool
Every day I will cut and go through
Rasta never get weary, I know just what to do

Too long I been cutting through this Babylon jungle
Working hard day by day
With all my might I fight for the Human struggle
Now it ah go dull my blade
I need a rest so I can strengthen my structure
But Babylon won't behave
I need some time to stregthen my mind
But the system wants to enslave

Too much frustration
It ah go dull my blade
Too much temptation
It ah go dull my blade
No time for supplication
It ah go dull my blade
No time for exaltation
It ah go dull my blade

JMC
10/4/08
(c) 2008

JAH Time

2008-07-09T20:30:00.001-04:00

We all have our own concept of time and when things should be done; the time to graduate, the time to marry, to have children, the time to accomplish anything under the sun. We live in a world where "time is of the essence", "time is money", "time waits for no one" and "time is the master". It seems like there is no escaping time... it is part of our daily life. Yet sometimes we don't measure up to our ideas of time or our culture's ideas of time and it causes disappointment or distress when we miss out on an opportunity.

Years ago it had been my plan to reach a certain destination close to my heart. Everything was set to go and I literally had the ticket in my hand, but things didn't work out and eventually even things beyond what I had anticipated began to suddenly change. During that time I was upset and didn't really understand why my plans had failed. However, in hindsight I began to consider the reasons behind the change of course and although all my questions were not answered, the way ahead became clearer. Circumstances changed but I believe that it was meant for me to reach this place I had intended to visit; it just had not been the right season.

After so long everything has finally come to fruition, I'm setting off on my journey tomorrow. At last I am going to my destination and the time is right... there are different circumstances, and I am older, a little wiser, more experienced, and perhaps more appreciative. I don't know why it has happened now, all I know is that I am definitely thankful that I have been granted this chance because it is a serious blessing. When one door is closed, another is open. When that door is opened it is our responsibility to seize the opportunity.

In the end, the only time that really matters is JAH Time. We have to free ourselves from our limited view of when things should occur or not occur. With JAH one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. In our human experience we have to wait on JAH patiently to open the doors for us when the right time comes. Seeing this blessing manifest has reminded me to measure my life with JAH Time.

Trinidad and Suriname here I come! Stepping outa Babylon!

JAHsh

Refreshment Course

2008-07-04T05:55:00.001-04:00

Sometimes life becomes so busy that everything becomes automated. You rise up in the morning, get ready and go to work. You do the usual things at work and then return home. Even leisure activities that you normally enjoy become routine. All too often, the course we take in life's journey becomes stagnant and dull… nothing stimulates us anymore and we are in dire need of invigoration. This is when life's course needs a refreshment course.

I've been finally enjoying a vacation, time off from my busy schedule as a teacher. A vacation is always welcome, but in my case it couldn't have come at a better time. There are so many things that I haven't had the chance to do lately, such as writing (clearly evident in my shortage of posts), focusing on physical fitness, and most important to me, being in tune spiritually and strengthening my livity. The truth is that I was disappointed because in my heart I was beginning to miss these necessities in my life, but furthermore I was also missing the energy I needed in order to get out of the slump. Every day of monotony took a toll on the senses, so that even reading or listening to inspirational words whether in scripture or from an uplifting reggae tune… didn't seem to inspire. I didn't actually realize my want for these essential things and their simple importance in my life until the dust settled and I was able to get a feel for myself again. Something that really triggered this was when I had the opportunity to come together and reason with a few likeminded people. The experience was like rain water nourishing a seed that had been planted deep within the soul. Once I had it again, I became very aware of its long absence beforehand. Yes, everything does happen for a reason.

Personally, as someone who sights up Rastafari, it is hard for me to find people who share the trod with me during everyday life so I consider it a real blessing when given the chance to just release the vibes. Being able to speak to someone who truly overstands the same things that you do and who can equally contribute to a reasoning is fundamental. It refreshes your purpose and sharpens the mind, like Proverbs 27:17 says "As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." Perhaps this was the one ingredient I was missing, the good vibrations to shake it up and circulate the flow. Even a strongly disciplined lifestyle needs a lift every once in awhile, it is the key to natural progression. When something becomes too routine and easy, then it is time to bring things to the next level and when something loses steam, it is time to add more fuel to the fire. I think that is why people are not meant to be solitary, we need one another to learn from, to teach, to uplift. In the words of Burning Spear, "social living is the best."

Now that I finally have the time and the initial battery charge, I hope I can use it properly... collecting the drops of rain into a steady stream of water, so that in turn I may be the tree planted beside it, bearing fruit in due season. One thing is connected to the other, and it must balance out eventually. It is now the season for me to hold a firm meditation, refresh my spirit and continue on my journey. It is now the time to rediscover the world and its beauty, to once again contemplate the magnificence of JAH, and reconfirm my purpose. When we become refreshed, everything becomes so clear again. I can already see and appreciate the many doors opened to me right now, and feel the excitement and optimism that I have as I approach them.

I certainly hope that all of you, those who come across my words, and my family and friends can travel on a refreshment course as well, off the beaten path that has been beating us to mere complacency. Don't let the world suck you dry, you've got to open your third eye. May the Most High guide and protect, and may your hearts be satisfied within.

Live Up,
JAHsh

The Sun Rises In The West

2008-04-21T22:36:00.002-04:00

The Sun Rises In The West

Thousands amassed, waiting
For the appointed arrival
Eyes to the sky, they stood
The heavy incense of herbs
And the sound of binghi drums
Words, sent up to the heavens
As a welcome
Please, come

For hundreds of years they suffered
They lived, shackled in gloom
Wailing like the abeng of the Maroon
Many tears had fallen from their eyes
Just like the rain from the grey skies
Even now looming above their heads
But today, it would be different
Today, a sign would reveal
In the flesh, and not news-reel

The time was now at hand
A sudden hush fell on the crowd
In the distance could be heard...
Yes... roaring
As if a chariot led by lions
Was soaring overhead
The dark clouds had parted like curtains
And light shone down
Like the first act of creation

The people stood silent in anticipation
As a giant vessel approached
Marked with paint strokes of
Green, Gold, and Red
The same colors worn on every dread
It made its landing
Thunderous rejoicing shook the hemisphere
For finally, the Lion of Judah was here
Shielding their eyes from the radiance
They could tell... it was really H.I.M.
All their life they have looked to the East
But today the sun rises in the West
And now escorted by elders
He descends the steps

Everything is now so clear
Everything is now so real
This would be their liberation
The day of the Rastaman groundation

JMC
4/21/08
(c) 2008

Groundation Day - Haile Selassie I Visits Jamaica
April 21, 1966

Troubadour

2008-03-26T22:55:00.001-04:00

Troubadour

As if emerging from Eden
She was just passing by
Greeting me with a smile
Reflecting a celestial beckoning
Then as her lips parted
I was suddenly questioning
What was this voice I heard
That had my soul so stirred
Her melodies made me pause...
And consider Jerusalem’s hills
Listening to songs of divine glory
Telling me another righteous story
Oh, it was a real true thing
The music that this woman would sing
Her chords coated with affection
She was vying for my attention
And I... I couldn’t bring myself
To go her way
No I couldn’t that day
For I was Rooted
And Grounded
Lord, she was travelling along life’s way
And every note on the guitar she’d play
Just made me feel so sublime
She seemed to be from beyond all time
And yet I couldn’t follow
I had to hold on to my tomorrow
It appeared strange to her
And maybe it was strange to me
But sometimes you have to let life be
Instead of wondering
What might have been
Or what might be
She invited me to dance to the drum
In a gateway city where she was from
To come and move along
And join in her song
But I stood still
While she, kept on
Back on the road she set upon
And me, only my mind chased her
Soon her angelic voice faded
Like swollen echoes dissipated
Off of a canyon floor
So too left this troubadour

JMC
3/26/08
(c) 2008

In Like A Lamb, Out Like A Lion

2008-03-23T22:40:00.001-04:00

In Like A Lamb, Out Like A Lion

He went in like a lamb
Forsaken by His people
But guided by JAH hand
His body just a vehicle
Can’t kill the spirit of a man
Rome tried to take it
Yet they can’t overstand

From Golgotha to Addis Ababa
No one can stop the will of JAH
Manifest the Savior and the Conqueror
First come the blood and then the fyah
I&I know, and so it go
In this time, Prophecy reveal
And who can’t hear, must feel
He who is worthy to loose the seven seals
Is the same one that humanity must appeal

He came out like a lion
Appointed and anointed
To rule with a rod of iron
Babylon so disappointed
Now we look toward Zion
Where Selassie I pointed
No more death or crying

Come, Children of the Lamb
Come, Children of the Lion
Together with Love and I-nity
Together troddin’ unto Zion
For it was written, according to His plan
That the Lion shall lie down with the Lamb
It must be, because they’re one in the same
See His hair like wool and His crown like a mane

Yes children, JAH live! Yeshua live! Selassie I live!
More life! Resurrection time, everytime...

JMC
3/23/08
(c) 2008

Precious Life

2008-02-17T20:45:00.001-05:00

A week ago today, an old friend of mine was shot and killed. I heard his name on the radio news just before I had planned on going to sleep. It's funny how you can hear various statistics and strange names on the news every day and you grow numb to it, but when you hear of somebody familiar it strikes you with a sudden and harsh reality, the reality that everything can change within a short moment in time. The people and things that we value the most could be a gone in an instant. Life is very precious indeed, and it distresses me that so many youths are out on the streets wielding guns and knives with the intention to rob people of the most precious thing that they have. The most troubling thing of all is that weapons and the fools behind them have gone beyond the streets and warzones and into homes, public areas, and schools. Everyday people could have their last day by receiving a gunshot wound to the head, such as my friend, having nothing to do with any kind of those wicked behaviors. The road of life sure has its twists and turns.

During this week I had to grapple with a series of thoughts and emotions. For instance, how do you confront the family of a friend who was the innocent victim of random and senseless violence? How do you even confront the notion of the whole event? Something that I had gone over and over in my mind was the fact that we need to appreciate and value our lives. First, we must value our own. This could mean different things for different people... but for myself, I know I wish to refrain from negative and destructive things. Everything I do should be worthwhile, it should be upful. And in knowing and loving myself it allows me to fully appreciate others, which brings me to the next step forward, putting a value on other peoples' lives. Everyone has a right to live free and to live happily. Each person on this earth shares a common journey, just like you and me, but their journey is unique and it is their own. We must love one another and respect one another. This does not always mean agreeing with somebody, or aiding and abetting their faults... but it means to accept and respect their human dignity. Who is man to play God? How can we who do not create life, take it? The two greatest commandments given to humanity were to love JAH, and to love one another. It is time to follow these basic instructions and stay far from hatred and violence.

The sad and unfortunate passing of my friend also led me to think of how much time we sometimes waste on petty fussing and fighting. People can hold grudges and bad feelings against others for a lifetime and then try to make peace when it is convenient or when the end approaches. Yet, life doesn't always take a predictable course. What happens when the end is swift and unexpected? What happens to the intentions, the words, and the actions that are left in limbo? Family members and friends should be appreciated in all ways possible. Don't put off until tomorrow what could be done today. Tomorrow is not promised, so we must do our best to live positively and peacefully with each other.

I think of my friend during this time. I think of his family, particularly his wife and his children. I see their grief and their pain. I see the ruins of the confused and misguided youth who killed my friend. I pray for all. I understand the suffering now behind each name on the eleven o'clock news or in the morning paper... and I wish so many more would see what I see also. Mankind, put away the guns, put away the knives. These things were designed only to maim and kill. Leave all the foolishness behind... learn, listen, love, and live. Life is precious, and everyone is entitled to live life to the fullest. It starts with us, but may it never end with us.

Blessed Love,
JAHsh

Porcelain's Prospect

2008-01-27T15:15:00.001-05:00

Porcelain's Prospect

Sitting on the shelf of the fine china cabinet
Behind glass doors in a room's desolate corner
Polished porcelain ponders its primary purpose
Free even from a smudge, but still feels worthless
No stains, scrapes or chips on its painted surface
Glazed over in rumination, a ceramic aberration
Watching the other dishes from its lofty display
With dismay, wondering if it will be used one day
Missing the conversations around the dinner table
Flirting with the forks and spooning with desert
Cleaned and towel-dried from some crumbs and dirt
Even envious of those broken against counters, smashing
Or thrown across the room in fits of folly or passion
But it still remains untouchable, a precious plate
Crafted by an artisan's hands, but lamenting its fate
All are afraid for its quality, too unique to imitate
It simply sits and reflects with eternal moments to muse
Yet all it really wants is to be handled and used

JMC
1/27/08
(c) 2008

King’s Betrayal

2008-01-23T18:30:00.001-05:00

King's Betrayal

Why is it that every boulevard with the name MLK
Still struggles each day with crime and gunplay
People will quote one line of "I have a dream…"
But in the end they don't even know what it means
I see his face on a T-shirt or his voice on a track
He is a symbol of pride, the symbol of dignified black
Yet the fact remains that we still have segregated brains
Ignorance and apathy are the thickest of all man's chains
How can some celebrate virtue when they live in vice
Now a hero is the man with stunna shades and the ice
I have a dream where every man can rise to be a King
When we'll free up education and cut off the puppet string
Victims of the system is what some choose to portray
Instead of healing broken families and fighting moral decay
A legacy locked away making the present seem like the past
While people hide behind an African mask of "free at last"

They made a holiday but the war has still not been won
Everywhere I look I see the ties that bind are coming undone
We need another one like the Reverend to run and take charge
For the pestilence of prejudiced thinking is still at large
The only voices I hear calling are those far on the fringes
Angry extremists who've already flown off their hinges
Stop the negative thinking and the behavior of animals
Tearing down one another with the appetites of cannibals
We must reach to pull back the community from sinking sand
With fullness of cooperation, hand in hand with our fellow man
The youths have been sold on gilded glamour and fool's gold
Keeping them pacified on porno and music videos they behold
It's the time to make goals and actively seek a better solution
Too many lost souls are stifling in this poisonous pollution
They've given him his honor and they've given him his day
But I pray, people don't betray the memory of Doctor MLK

JMC
1/23/08
(c) 2008

"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Mere Moment

2008-01-05T22:30:00.001-05:00

Mere Moment

The air tastes sweeter when you close your eyes
And look at life through the yielding lens of wonder
In a mere moment of tranquility you will realize
That the sun shines brighter and leaves your skin
A little warmer, where you can bask in radiance
It brings a fragrance of love, wrapped in its wafts
You know that here is your resting place, a paradise
For there is a nest for the bird and a hole for the fox
But how much more are you, child of Zion, time to arise
Planted in you is a seed where the ground is fertilized
Sometimes you have to prune back down to the root
Make room for new growth, emerge like a green shoot
Tear away the tangles, back to the tender heart of youth
Humble and innocent with ears and eyes for the Truth
It is here where you can be nurtured in confidence
Igniting the eternal flame, internal light the same
As the solar ray which pierces through the stratosphere
A cleansed mind burns away the fog of doubt and fear
And evaporates the stagnant pool of tears below your feet
Indeed the world and its trials only last for awhile
But this is your domicile, open up your eyes beloved
Stride forward and bless creation with your knowing smile

JMC
1/5/08
(c) 2008

His Majesty Speaks On Christmas

2007-12-25T12:05:00.001-05:00

Greetings In Love To One And All,

During the holiday season it is easy to forget the true meaning of Christmas. We live in a material world where even good intentions can become tangled in a web of greed and vanity. Reverence is replaced by revelry and the humble spirit of goodwill is replaced by selfishness born of needing and wanting things, even if it is not for one's self but for their loved ones. If you live in the Western World it is no great surprise. Nowadays Christmas itself as a holiday is a controversial one since some would question its origins as we know it today, and it would also be safe to say that it is now mainly a secular occasion. However, it is not for Rastafari to fight or oppose the traditions of men, for each and everyone has a right to celebrate and give thanks in whatever way possible. Despite the commercialism, deception and foolishness of a Santa Claus and elves at the North Pole, the togetherness of families, the joy it brings, and most importantly the spirit of sacrifice is a blessed thing. Goodness has always got to prevail.

As a Rastafari I follow the ancient tradition of Ethiopia and sight up Christmas on January 7th, a day called "Genna". It is more pure and less misrepresented. However, living in the West it is hard to avoid the giving of thanks on December 25th. Ultimately it is not a particular date that must be recognized, for both dates are the result of religious tradition and less on simple fact, rather the importance is in the concept of Christmas, the concept of the Christ child. I&I must give thanks and praise whether it is a Christmas Day or any other day. Even His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I made a Christmas Broadcast to America on December 25, 1937. Such is the wisdom of Qedamawi Selassie I the Defender of the Faith! He did not have the mind to focus on divisiveness and pettiness but rather I-nity (unity), putting JAH first and foremost and not the traditions of men.

In the Rastafari movement not everybody comes together in agreement on the personage of Christ, especially because of the religious perversion that has been experienced for hundreds of years in Jesus' name at the hands of the oppressors. Yet, when Rastas go to the source of their inspiration, H.I.M. Haile Selassie I, they will find his words giving thanks and praise to Yeshua Ha'Mashiach, Iyesus Kristos, Jesus the Christ. I&I cannot separate Rastafari from Christ for they are bound together. JAH is the Creator and Father of all things, the Son glorifies the Father and the Comforter and King glorifies the Son. Not everyone has bothered to read the utterances of H.I.M. and instead hold on to hearsay and partiality, but I for one cannot deny the words of the King who surely had the Mind of Christ. And today, I share with you some of the Christmas greetings and meditations that H.I.M Haile Selassie I shared with both his people and foreigners, including those in America! Here are some of the words of the Defender of the Faith regarding Christmas:

"When Jesus Christ was born from Virgin Mary, from that time on He lived an exemplary life, a life which men everywhere must emulate. This life and the faith that He taught us assures us of salvation, assures us also of harmony and a good life upon Earth. Because of the exemplary character of the life of Jesus Christ it is necessary that all men do their maximum in their human efforts to see to it that they approximate as much as they can the good example that has been set by Him.

It is quite true that there is no perfection in humanity. From time to time we make mistakes, we do commit sins but even as we do that, deep in our hearts as Christians we know we have forgiveness from the Almighty. He taught us that all who seek Him shall find Him. To live in this healthy life, a Christian life, is what makes me follow Jesus Christ."

Interview with Dr. Oswald Hoffmann on the Lutheran Hour, "Bringing Christ to the Nations" radio broadcast featuring Christmas in Ethiopia, December 25, 1968

"...There is no greater day of gratitude and joy for Christians than celebrating the birthday of Our Saviour Jesus Christ. On this day of happiness, every Christian, by meditating on [Jesus'] life and the work He accomplished for all of us, tends to forget the trials he faces and the sadness that breaks his heart. At the same time everyone is inclined to minimize the trials and sorrows of his own, his kindred, and friends and forgives those who have grieved him. Since Our childhood, Our innermost thoughts have been overwhelmed by the mysterious deep spirit of the divine infant's birth, which is not only expressive but also glorious and inscrutable. Likewise, no matter what one's reputation, whether one's accomplishment is great or humble, tiresome or fruitless, in the journey of life, the mystery of Bethlehem dominates our spirit.

With the birth of the Son of God, an unprecedented, an unrepeatable, and a long-anticipated phenomenon occurred. He was born in a stable instead of a palace, in a manger instead of a crib. The hearts of the Wise men were struck by fear and wonder due to His Majestic Humbleness. The kings prostrated themselves before Him and worshipped Him. 'Peace be to those who have good will'. This became the first message.

When He sacrificed himself at Golgotha for the atonement of our sin, He prayed with His last breath for the forgiveness of those who had tortured Him saying, 'Father, forgive them for they know not what they do'. Shame on those of us who are Christians and do not follow the way of the Savior of the World, whose life was filled with kindness, humility, and martyrdom! If we lived by the laws he gave us and were worthy of being called Christian, peace would have reigned on this earth.

Men were supposed to be the equals of the living angels who unceasingly sang praises before the eternal God. Had this been so, peoples of the world would not have been divided along lines of enmity. In truth there is no legitimate reason or good cause which justifies war…

...People of America! I wish you a merry Christmas. I plead with you to remember in your prayers all those weak and endangered peoples who look to the flags of the free nations with confidence, hoping to discern the star which will announce their peace and future security."

Broadcast from exile in London on the BBC to the American people, December 25, 1937. Excerpt from My Life and Ethiopia's Progress, Volume 2, Haile Selassie I, King of Kings of Ethiopia

Give thanks and praise to Yeshua Ha'Mashiach, Jesus the Christ, Lord and Savior of all mankind, and give thanks for the wise mind and utterances of Haile Selassie I, Christ in His Kingly Character and Defender of the Faith. I&I should all maintain some Christ Consciousness during this season. No matter the difference of opinions or ideologies or even differences in faith… let us achieve a higher level and practice peace and goodwill in this time. Walk in love with humanity and rejoice. I wish you peace and joy on this blessed day!

Bless Up,
JAHsh Concurz

Mr. Softee

2007-12-23T17:43:00.001-05:00

Mr. Softee

Don't want to be no Mr. Softee
Don't want to lose my integrity
Don't want to be no Mr. Softee
If I-man backslide it could get ugly

There's no second guess, me haffi hold a fresh
Time to meditate, cause I've got to pass JAH test
Dem wan fe hold me down so I can join the rest
But even though they curse me, JAH JAH still bless
Got to stand strong in the midst of wicked Babylon
Tougher than the rest, yes even tougher than iron
It's just a higher meditation, could never go wrong
Haffi strengthen up the livity and walk like a lion

Many men come and say to me that JAH JAH is dead
A set of psychological babble fe come mash up di head
But I'ma dread, I deal with simple things instead
I listen to creation, so I could never get misled
Babylon bwoys are too craven they only fuss and fight
Just pure backbite cause everyone wants to be right
They all have eyes in dem head but they have no eyesight
JAH fyah mek my way clear so I can see through the night

Don't want to be no Mr. Softee
Don't want to lose my integrity
Don't want to be no Mr. Softee
If I-man backslide it could get ugly

No I don't want dem fi mek me into no Mr. Softee
Dem wan fill me up with liquor just to try and go rock me
Dem lift me up with words and then leggo and drop me
Then try serve me flesh of beasts to mek me slow and groggy
But Babylon soldier can't stop me, this is not a joke ting
Rastafari is from ancientcy, and not just some kinda fling
I&I follow in the footsteps of the Savior and the King
Conquering Lion breaks every chain, liberation JAH bring

Could never overstand why wicked men show nah love at all
It's like they just want to wait to see the Rastaman fall
Yet I will still stand in JAH glory when they panic and crawl
Cause I see the four riders leaving from the Gideon stall
When the right time come, I-man will never turn and go run
Everything in its due season, it's just a natural progression
I stand firm and fight for truth and rights like a champion
Hey Mr. Softee get off me, meh seh you ah go melt in the sun

Don't want to be no Mr. Softee
Don't want to lose my integrity
Don't want to be no Mr. Softee
If I-man backslide it could get ugly

JMC
12/23/07
(c) 2007

In This Time

2007-11-13T18:36:00.001-05:00

In This Time

How can you not sight up the King in this time?
Oh don't be so blind, mankind
How can you not hail up the Comforter in this time?
Oh where is your mind, mankind

In this troubled world we all need an example
Someone who stands firm and nah get trample
You see, the youths are getting so frustrated
Because their hopes have all become deflated
So we need to look to a manifestation in the flesh
No greater than the first, but we need to refresh
As a Rastaman I am willing to attest
That Selassie I really pass the test, oh yes

How can you not sight up the King in this time?
Oh don't be so blind, mankind
How can you not hail up the Comforter in this time?
Oh where is your mind, mankind

JAH would never lead his precious children astray
So why would he not send the Comforter today
When you point and lead somebody to the past
Their faith and their mind will constantly clash
But if you show them that the living water still flow
Their faith, hope and love will outlast tomorrow
As a Rastaman I feel and I know
That JAH give the power and He bestow

How can you not sight up the King in this time?
Oh don't be so blind, mankind
How can you not hail up the Comforter in this time?
Oh where is your mind, mankind

Too many look backward to that time
Too many look forward to that time
But nobody ever check and give due respect
To the King of Kings in this time
Yes I, the King of Kings in this time

Too many look backward to that time
What do they find? What do they find?
Too many look forward to that time
What do they find? What do they find?
But open your eyes and you will see
That JAH Rastafari reigns eternally

In this time, in that time, all the time... everytime
Forever and ever, selah

JMC
11/13/07
(c) 2007

JAH Bless Lucky Dube

2007-10-19T20:09:00.001-04:00

I had received a phone call from my bredren, and didn't check the voice message right away. When I finally listened to it, I was in shock... I wasn't sure if I heard it correctly, "Lucky Dube has been killed". I played it over again. I could clearly hear "Lucky Dube", but I still wasn't sure if I heard the last part. I made the call and my worst fears were realized. Lucky Dube was murdered... shot dead last evening (October 18th).

I cannot even begin to express my sorrow, and at the same time the anger that this news leaves me. Lucky Dube was a Rasta reggae singer from South Africa, a very positive influence on so many people worldwide, but especially in his home country where he sang in protest of the government and the system of apartheid therefore becoming a role model and hero to the African people. His music was always thoughtful, sincere and sung with deep emotion and conviction. Dube was truly a humble artist, and it makes no sense that he met an end such as this... shot fatally in a carjacking in front of his son and daughter. The Rasta reggae community has lost many great artists and messengers throughout the years but none so tragically since Peter Tosh was killed in 1987. Ironically, Lucky Dube was influenced by Tosh and now he has joined him as another martyr lost in the battle against Babylon. He courageously spoke strongly against the waves of crime, murder and rape plaguing his country of South Africa and he offered wise words to the youths on everything from spiritual living to AIDS awareness. It is hard to imagine how the favor returned for all of his hard work and love for his people was a wicked and murderous act.

There is a reason for everything under the sun, and only JAH knows the reason behind this tragedy. Yet I am confident that when one soulJAH falls, ten more take his place. I can only hope and pray that Lucky Dube's music and life will resound for years to come and that his great loss may motivate ones to act and take measures to help clean up and repair South Africa and the African continent. I can only give thanks that although he may no longer be troding this earth, his music is immortalized. As Dube once sang, "Rastas never die". JAH Bless Lucky Dube... you will be missed.

JAHsh

Lucky Dube
August 3, 1964 – October 18, 2007

"Freedom fighter standing on a mountain
In a foreign country
Trying to send a message
To his people, back in the ghetto
He had a home one time
Love of a girl
But he left all that behind
Oh yes I can hear him clearly as he whispers in the air
His voice came out loud and clear
All he asked for was a prayer and as he turns to walk away he said

I'm still here in the house of exile
For the love of the nation"

- Lucky Dube "House of Exile"

JAH Smile

2007-09-15T17:14:00.001-04:00

JAH Smile

Sistren, let me sit with you awhile
So I can see JAH smile
When I listen to you speak
My spirit reaches its peak
Because I see JAH smile
Nuff respect to the sistren
You put me in a good position
To see JAH and know
I need no intermission
I want to find you every day
Don't want no delay
So I can see JAH smile

I see JAH smile in every face
I see JAH smile throughout the human race
I see JAH smile in each and every place
But you really are a special case
Yes I see JAH so clear, my dear

Sistren, you have a simple kinda style
That's the way I see JAH smile
It's good to share the vibe
It keeps my spirit alive
Because I see JAH smile
There's nothing I'd rather do
Than stop and get to know you
Could be a an hour
Or just a minute or two
But give me some time
Mek we cool, mek we lime
So I can see JAH smile

I see JAH smile in every face
I see JAH smile throughout the human race
I see JAH smile in each and every place
But you really are a special case
Yes I see JAH so clear, my dear

JMC
9/15/07
(c) 2007

Hold Them, Marcus

2007-08-21T23:37:00.002-04:00

A few days ago some celebrated the birthday of Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a central figure in Rastafari ideology, a Jamaican national hero, a pioneer and spokesperson for Black pride and Black identity. As a high school history teacher I have had opportunities to ask students if they knew who Marcus Garvey was, all kinds of students, some from Jamaica even. From what I've experienced, I've found that very few know about Garvey, and even those who do, know little about his impact. I imagine that this is both bitter and sweet. Bitter in the sense that "no one remembers old Marcus Garvey" as Burning Spear once sang. Sweet in the sense that maybe we have reached a point where the African Diaspora is not in as crucial a state of affairs and thus has allowed many black people to live comfortably in the West. Needless to say, it is my belief that Marcus should always be remembered and I take a quote from the man himself, "a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots." Still, as another reggae song goes, "dem never love poor Marcus!"

Marcus Garvey was a man in a different period of time, he personally experienced and struggled against racial hatred and prejudice along with other Africans in the West, and any shadow of Civil Rights was still decades away into the future. It was a time when black people were still being lynched on trees in the American South. Yet, Marcus Garvey stood firm against all this injustice and made no reservations on his mission to liberate the minds, bodies and souls of the African Diaspora. Garvey strongly advocated education, empowerment, racial pride and racial unity. He restored the dignity of black people and called for them to be self-sufficient and take leadership roles in their communities. He inspired Africans at home and abroad with his gift for expression, passionately proclaiming words that still resonate today such as, "Up, up, you mighty race! You can accomplish what you will." He urged black people to see God through "black spectacles" to know that they were beautifully and wonderfully made in God's own image, giving them a spiritual sense of equality and godliness long withheld from them by white people. He founded the UNIA with a constitution clearly declaring the necessary rights due to all black men and women. His ideas on repatriation and his Black Star Liner company inspired the Rastafari movement and African consciousness and his pronouncement of the coming of a great black king in Africa turned their heads toward the coronation of H.I.M. Selassie I in Ethiopia. Marcus Garvey was clearly way ahead of his time and nobody could ever doubt his greatness. He had a very strong character and with this also came a very strong opinion.

However, Marcus's strong persona rubbed some people the wrong way. While both were proponents of Pan-Africanism, Garvey didn't have many kind words for American civil rights leader W.E.B. DuBois and they were bitter rivals with different ideas on how to help black people, somewhat like a much more pronounced MLK and Malcolm X disagreement. Garvey didn't have kind words for H.I.M. Haile Selassie I either, which some people find odd considering the two are almost tied together as one in Rastafari philosophy. In fact, they both make up part of the Bobo Shanti concept of the holy trinity. Marcus even had gone to the belly of the beast and met with leaders of the KKK to discuss the separation of the races, needless to say this was extremely controversial. He considered their open hatred of black people to be honest whereas he held every other white person as a potential Klansman... sad, but perhaps true. Finally, everywhere he went, the government despised Marcus. He was not beloved in Jamaica, and when he went to the United States he was eventually put in prison over some supposed charges of fraud... almost surely a racist tactic. Certainly Marcus had his flaws, as does any man or woman upon this earth. Not everyone was fond of him, including other black activists. However, time will judge him as a progressive man, a courageous man and someone who awakened the consciousness of black people and shook the rest of the world into realizing that times had to change. The wonderful things that Marcus Garvey did far outweigh any mistakes he made or criticism he received.

As a Rastaman and a firm believer in racial equality and justice I consider Marcus Garvey a hero of mine. It is not always an easy fit, because some of my ideologies as a historian do not match his own, and I am a white male, far from the experiences that drove Marcus' philosophies and opinions. He was a separatist, I believe in cooperation of the races and integration. He abhorred any interracial relationships, I could not agree with that as a general statement. Some of his judgments seem more problematic than helpful as if he occasionally lacked faith in the general goodness of human beings. So, I can't say I agree with everything Marcus Garvey advocated, some of it seemed very unreasonable and eccentric, but maybe it was necessary at the time, maybe it was the right way. That of course is my personal take on Marcus, for it is necessary that I approach him different than a black man or woman. I could never separate Garvey from Rastafari nor could I deny him. Ultimately, the key to overstanding Marcus is to know that he lived in a world quite different from mine today, after all he passed on in 1940 in an age where any national or worldwide progress for people of African decent was still at a relative standstill.

Yes it can be rough, it can be harsh... but I love Marcus Garvey for what he taught me, for what he did for the betterment of my black brothers and sisters, and for the way in which he made the world listen to his message. I don't think Garvey gets enough respect outside of the Rastafari culture. In fact the last popular reference to him was seeing his face on rapper Ludacris' t-shirt in his music video "Pimpin' All Over The World". I'm not too sure Marcus would appreciate going along for that ride and he certainly would never allow the use of the n-word in his presence. Rather, I think ones should read his speeches, his poems, and his collected writings in his Philosophies and Opinions. His memory should be honored and his ideas should be learned and discussed for the sake of education and progress. The struggle will never be over until there are equal rights and justice for all people throughout the world and Africa is restored to its proper glory as the cradle of humanity. Happy Earthstrong to the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey! Hold them, Marcus! Teach them, Marcus!

Love & Respect,
JAHsh Concurz

Eye-cons

2007-08-14T13:00:00.001-04:00

Eye-cons

Babylon keeps using them eye-cons
They are trying to keep the I conned
No I could never bow to no icon
Manipulation to make my mind gone

How could the Savior resemble a master of plantation
Lord of the Ku Klux Klan and the Rise of a Nation
Jesus hangs on their walls, but I see no imitation
No love at all, they would lynch without hesitation
They have the wrong history, the wrong application
Used a picture to lead oppressed people into frustration
This savior of the slaver didn't share their skin complexion
The preacher man never told them it was just a fabrication
Freedom for every heart and soul was never their intention
So tell me, how come people fail to see the real connection

They're all sighting up an eye-con
Using religion as their weapon
They show me the painting of their icon
No they will never keep the I conned

All this running for public office is a really big sham
Political games with wicked aims to take over the land
Money raised in campaigns for some rich, rich man
He goes here and there to talk and shake somebody's hand
Accumulating more funds, yes he's the real Uncle Sam
His smiling face appears on every newspaper stand
Everybody cheers and claims that they're his greatest fan
This publicity hides the truth behind his little plan
To take back all he said when he assumes his command
But how intelligent people get fooled, I can't overstand

They're all sighting up an eye-con
Using politics as their weapon
They show me the photo of their icon
No they will never keep the I conned

An image is one thing if it's applied in innocence
Otherwise it's like a noose tied around our necks
Worship JAH in spirit and truth and not fabric nor flesh
We are all equal, never big one man up over the next
Like the warlords in the street carrying around portraits
Shooting off machine guns and firing shoulder rockets
We would do well to avoid all this religion and politics
Too much bloodshed and too many dirty tricks
If we keep worshiping all of the idols and the pics
Then we will always have warfare and big conflicts

Stop sighting up an eye-con
Religion and politics have got it all wrong
They rally people all around their icon
But we have all got to sing the same song

Babylon keeps using them eye-cons
They trying to keep the I conned
No I could never bow to no icon
Manipulation to make my mind gone

JMC
8/14/07
(c) 2007

Steps In Concrete

2007-08-07T12:28:00.001-04:00

Steps In Concrete

I see your steps in concrete
Down every avenue and street
So be careful of where you walk
Better be wise, got to be discreet

There are imprints left behind
Like from a Jurassic kind of time
They take so long to fade away
Better strengthen up your mind

Young lady, where are you going so late at night?
With whom are you meeting, do you think its right?
Does your family know? I bet they worry about you
Why do you still need to meet in secret with this dude
Do you know where he comes from? Or what he does?
Do you know what he's passing on when he wears no glove?
Oh Lord! Girl you better stop and go see
Before your steps become solid in that wet concrete
Oh yeeah...

Mr. Necktie Man, loving husband and father of four
Who is this strange woman knocking at the door?
Of this motel room, on the side of a dimly lit road
In the corner of the city that fails the health code
Is she stroking your ego, or stroking something else?
Where's your family, don't you feel ashamed of yourself?
Oh God! Man, watch where you place your feet
Before your steps become solid in that wet concrete
Oh yeeah...

I see your steps in concrete
Down every avenue and street
So be careful of where you walk
Better be wise, got to be discreet

There are imprints left behind
Like from a Jurassic kind of time
They take so long to fade away
Better strengthen up your mind

Hey young man, tell me where did you get that gun?
You think carrying around some heat is really so much fun?
Why are you pushing dope, while your Mom works the nightshift?
So she can put food on the table and help pay for your whip
Now a deal goes bad, angry words exchanged and a fire is shot
People staring, sirens blaring, and you're running from some cop
Oh JAH! Boy, you brought more violence to the street
Your feet are getting stuck in that wet concrete
Oh yeeah...

Lonely woman, it's been awhile and I know you feel so fine
But this man you're dealing with, what do you expect to find?
He will use up your body and throw you off to the side
To him you're just another one-night-stand and a midnight ride
Is this the way to fill up that hole that grows in your heart?
What happens to all the dirt when you want a brand new start?
Oh, God! Lady, take the broom and start to sweep
Your feet are getting stuck in that wet concrete
Oh yeeah...

I see your steps in concrete
Down every avenue and street
So be careful of where you walk
Better be wise, got to be discreet

There are imprints left behind
Like from a Jurassic kind of time
They take so long to fade away
Better strengthen up your mind

JMC
8/7/07
(c) 2007

Why I Follow King Selassie I

2007-07-23T21:23:00.001-04:00

Many Rastas throughout the world can be heard, in nearly every breath, shouting the name "Selassie I!" and "Rastafari!" It is an expression used in greetings, in music, in the everyday vernacular of those who follow or support the philosophy and movement of Rastafari. Often times it is habitual and people never really stop to check and learn about their namesake, H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I. Besides the declarations of his name, his image is equally pervasive. It can be found everywhere, on stickers, on clothing. Even if people may not know exactly who he is, I am sure they have seen his image. Today, July 23rd, is the Earthstrong, or birthday, of King Selassie I. Instead of writing another blessed but sometimes clichéd tribute, I thought I would briefly share why I personally sight up Selassie I. I will not be speaking about why, as a Rastaman, I love H.I.M. but as to how the world can plainly see his greatness. Put aside the prophecy, theological, mystical, and the legendary traditions of His Majesty, I will keep it basic.

So, why would I, a Caucasian male of Italian ancestry, choose to follow King Selassie I and identify myself as Rastafari? For me it is a relatively simple answer. Mankind has always looked to find a leader who embodies a spirit kindred with that of God's, or what others may call a "higher power", and a leader who inspires others to follow in his wake. When Ras Tafari Makonnen was crowned as Haile Selassie I (The Might of The Trinity) he truly was a living testimony to his coronation title and its adjuncts, "King of Kings"... "Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah"... "Elect of God" and "Defender of the Faith". The Ethiopian royal family also traces its roots to Israel, to the loins of King Solomon, and for those who believe, this history certainly is another divine attribute added to the character of King Selassie I. Yes, there have been kings on this earth since the beginning of human civilization, and many also have claimed an ancient lineage worthy of praise. However it was never on the merit of this history or these titles that made Haile Selassie I great. His trod on this earth was his testimony:

He was progressive. H.I.M. Haile Selassie I modernized his country and promoted education. By working to economically develop Ethiopia, he helped meet the basic human needs of the poor and helped to restore their dignity. Ethiopia became the standard-bearer for the Africans who had suffered poverty because of the policies of others. Selassie I helped restore African confidence... and instill an African conscious in people of all nations worldwide.

He was not a warmonger. Even after Mussolini invaded Ethiopia and the blood of thousands was shed, Selassie I did not cry out for blood in return, but for justice, and fought to expel the fascists from his ancient country with righteous conviction and not vengeance.

He was ecumenical. Selassie I was a devout follower of the ancient Christian tradition of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Despite his strong beliefs, he worked to build unity between the Christian churches and build friendships with other world faiths. Instead of creating more friction with Islamic countries surrounding Ethiopia, he helped organize peaceful dialogues with their leaders. He even built a relationship with Vatican City, a topic of much taboo for most Rastas.

He was a wise leader. Selassie I helped create the OAU and fought for the liberation of all Africans, at home and abroad. He spoke a message to the world at the UN conference in 1963 which is still absolutely pertinent to what is happening today in the African continent and to other nations fighting the ghost of colonialism. His Majesty was a living symbol, the black King from the East, the cradle of humanity, and showed that Africans at home and abroad were also kings and queens in their own right.

He was an ambassador. His Majesty met with leaders from all over the world, many nations, many creeds, many colors. He asked that they learn more about his people, the Ethiopians, the Africans. That the world, and the great powers such as America, learn more about their backgrounds, their culture, strengths, weaknesses, hopes and desires. Selassie I called for the cooperation of all nations of the world and believed everyone shared in universal principals. He was strongly adamant against the aggressive behaviors of those who chose to use their resources to oppress and exploit other countries.

He was a man of faith. Selassie I had the Mind of Christ. This is profound and could mean many things to many people. In the very least it is a testimony to his spirituality and his connection to God. It was evident in his words, his teachings, and most significantly in his character and his actions. Selassie I loved the wisdom of the Bible and saw relevance for its application in the world. His love for God, and for the human family was a gentle and righteous love. It is no wonder why Rastas magnify Selassie I's name.

These few examples that I provided above do not require any mystical epiphany or some deep reasoning with an elder Rastaman. These are examples recorded in history, found in any honest schoolbook, and patently obvious in the many speeches, photos and footage available to the public. These are the works of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I, a monument to his name. Why do I love King Selassie I? Look at the world today, look at the politicians, the religious leaders, the heads of governments. Look at all these warmongers, these supposed godly men, these tricksters. Tell me, who can even come close to embodying everything His Majesty did? Who in this time has had the same amount of respect and reverence shown to him by people all throughout the world? The way King Selassie had Christ in his consciousness is the greatest example to the rest of the world. Many would argue Selassie I is the most visible example of the Spirit of JAH since over 2,000 years, worthy to be called King of Kings, a new name and a new hope for JAH children everywhere. He was a man of modest physical stature, but his words are echoes of the voice of JAH, his character a reflection of His divine spirit... both the lamb to the slaughter, and the conquering lion. How I sight up His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I is not important, what is important is how I share with the world all that He has taught me. I follow His Majesty because he has proven himself worthy to bust the seven seals, to teach the world, and I love Selassie I because I truly see the manifestation of JAH within him. Some believe that H.I.M. has passed on, but I know that he has not, because he lives within my heart, and each utterance of the Rastaman brings him to life in the minds and hearts of the hungry, the naked, the aged, the infants, the naked. Who is like unto thee oh Haile Selassie I? The world shall see... JAH Rastafari!

Blessed Love & Happy Selassie I Earthstrong,
JAHsh Concurz

Iron Appetite

2007-07-21T23:30:00.003-04:00

Iron Appetite

I take a seat on the bench beside the bar
And order a 45 or two
Matter of fact, make that a few
Oh no, wait a sec... you thought?
No, no, I don't deal with the malt liquor or steel trigger
I could see how you might misunderstand
But I am on a diet of strictly iron, man
So please push me a few plates of those heavy weights
Pile them on, extra helpings
Now, that's what I'm talking about

I'm braced, ready to take a bite
I can just about taste it
Teeth clenched...
Even the air molecules between my molars
Have been crushed to oblivion
Arms extended, feels like a ton
Hold on
Somebody's tail is wagging, begging for scraps
I don't have none of that
See spotter run...
I'm eating this on my own
Arms extended, feels like a ton

Persistence meets resistance
I can feel the burn
Igniting a fire in my fibers
But I like my food picante
Sweat beading on my forehead
Dripping into my eyes
No pain no gain, no compromise
Eleven more repetitions
Then I'm all set

Nearby is my greatest fan
Standing over my shoulder
Blowing on my neck
She's cool and all
Except she's oscillating
And gets around…
I'm better off hot
I got to be focused
Solid as a rock

I don't even chew, I devour
Like a hungry lion, sheer power
Consuming fistfuls of metal
Enough iron to put me on the level

More plates... delicious
So vicious, I eat until I'm sore
When my body can't take anymore
Then I've gotten my fill...
And as for the bill?
I have them keep a tab
Paid first of the month
So I can munch any day and night
Satisfying my iron appetite

JMC
7/21/07
(c) 2007

Farmah Man Seed

2007-07-20T15:11:00.001-04:00

Farmah Man Seed

Met a farmah man and him gimme a lickle seed
Said come yah son, plant dis it's what yuh need
Him said ef plant good seed, yuh reap good fruit
I tell yah man, it come straight fram de root
He said it must come straight fram de root

And I took it, stow it weh in meh pocket
Gone inna me yard, dig up de earth, and drop it
Cover up de hole, ah pat it dung wid ah spade
To grow de seed dat de farmah man gave
De sun become brutal, it mek de dirt inna dust
But protecting disyah seed is a must, I trust
So I bring wata in bucket loads fram de well
To douse de scorched earth, cause it hot as hell

Nothing left fe do but just sit dung an wait
Den I see de seed I sow begin germinate
Dirt beneath me nails and sweat on me brow
Keeping weh all pests, all de rabbits and fowl
Got to guard de leaves and tender green stem
Protect it like a faddah watch over him children
Soon come, lickle seed become a giant shady tree
Just like dem parable dat the Savior teach me

Grown enough to fill a whole heap ah bushel
Yes, so much, de harvest time get crucial
After so lang, enjoying the sweet fruit of meh labor
So good, now I must share it wid me neighbor
Then a take a portion of meh bountiful crop
Give to pickney along side road and pile atop
An seh, cooyah lickle bwoy, don't drop
Meh seh, bring it to yah Mama and yah Pop
To yuh bredda, sista, uncle and yuh aunt
Galang me son, and never go fe stop

Yes, and I tell him in case he done forgot…
I-man said ef plant good seed, yuh reap good fruit
I tell yah man, it come straight fram de root
I said it must come straight fram de root

JMC
7/20/07