Rev. Al Sharpton related to Sen. Strom Thurmond?

NEW YORK Feb 26, 2007 (AP)— The Rev. Al Sharpton said he wants a DNA test to determine whether he is related to former segregationist Sen. Strom Thurmond through his great-grandfather, a slave owned by an ancestor of the late senator.

"I can't find out anything more shocking than I've already learned," Sharpton told the Daily News, which on Sunday reported the link based on genealogists' findings.
Sharpton's spokesman, Rachel Noerdlinger, confirmed Monday for The Associated Press that Sharpton plans to pursue DNA testing, but had no further details.

Vee: "Whew....whatever! NEXT!"

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BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA

Okay, my 2 year old asked me to take him to see "Terabekia." And so I decided to take him to see his very first movie. He'd never asked to actually go and see a movie before, and he's such a busy body that I dreaded trying to get him to sit long enough to endure a one-plus hour movie. But this one...it must have really caught his attention, because he'd been running around for about a week going, "Terabekia mommy, Terabekia." And personally, I love animated film. I remember first finding out that I was expecting and one of the things I was thrilled about was the fact that I'd actually have a good reason to go and see these types of movies without looking like a looney bird.

So anyway we went to see Bridge to Terabithia yesterday. It was absolutely wonderful. I enjoyed it, and although my son did get a little antsy after about 45 minutes, he enjoyed it as well.

It was a classic movie about the bright, underdog grade-schooler who triumphs in the end. Jess, the star of the movie, is a gifted, self-taught artist, whose family is having their share of financial problems. So I pretty much figured that with his artistic talent, and the gift of imagination that his new friend (Leslie) introduces, that these two would end up writing a children's adventure, once they were done living it, that would surely bring financial blessings to both their families.

I couldn't have been more wrong. And I must admit that I was truly surprised by the ending. The lessons this little boy were to learn were far more real than you'd ever expect to see in a children's fantasy adventure.

The movie, which is based on the novel by Katherine Paterson, is beautifully animated and directed. It's captivating to audiences of all ages. The story line, which employs both fantasy and realism, is so rich and colorful that the messages can be felt by all.

I give this movie an unofficial 5 stars, since I'm not officially a movie critic. I will not give away the ending though. You will just have to go and see it for yourself! I know you won't be disappointed.

Vee

Jowaje Philosophy - The sharpness of mine tongue hath been dulled by the rock of wisdom

Everyday an individual is given life tests. The key to growth is first realizing that life itself is a test. And then you must recognize that even the smallest of things may be a new test in and of itself. Humility, one of the hardest things to acquire and possess, is one of the most vital characteristics a person needs to personify in order to achieve true personal and spiritual growth.

In the past, I've had a pretty quick temper. I've never been the one to intentionally hurt anyone, but I've always pretty much believed in defending myself and my feelings, if only with words. Yes, I was a gladiator of words when truly provoked. An eye for an eye...a tooth for a tooth is never okay, but it certainly does feel good doesn't it? But only superficially. With spiritual maturity comes the realization that these things are totally counter productive to growth and happiness.

So I've come up with another Jowaje philosophy:
The only way to get to the next level in life is through true surrender. You must surrender yourself to your ego and pride. You must surrender yourself to others. Now believe me, this is no easy task, but once you have mastered it, the rewards come. The blessings come. The elevation comes. The enlightenment comes. And when you're no longer a servant to your ego, when you're no longer prideful, the fruit of your labor will manifest itself. "The sharpness of mine tongue hath been dulled by the rock of wisdom." - Vee Jefferson

And I welcome this change. No longer having to take another's power to feel strong and powerful, I am empowered. Empowered to love even those who do not love me. Empowered to feel sympathy and empathy for my brothers and sisters. Empowered to be untouched by what others think. Empowered to feel joy in the midst of sorrow. Empowered with overstanding.

I am free! And I'm free to be me, because that's all I have to be.
I am growing. I'm learning. And I am becoming worthy of the blessings and abundance that life has awaiting me.

Hmm...:-)

Vee Jefferson