I was awakened today by 3 birds singing out my window. One of them chirped, chirped, CHIRPED! The other two screeched in a rapid whistle-like tone as if to shout we can feel it too! They are clearly excited about the pre-arrival of spring. The trees have begun to spout new life, as witnessed by …
Remembering Tupac: A Tribute Through His Lyrics
I, too, remember that day. For my adult children, it was as if a family member had died. Years earlier, I remember my son showing me a photograph of him and Tupac in Santa Barbara and asking, "Do you know who this is?" I had no idea who he was. But I learned. Oh boy …
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Cinnamon, Raisins, Walnuts and Love-
Just mention cinnamon rolls to my siblings and the thought will trigger a welcomed aroma that brings back memories with smiles. This delicious pastry was beyond description. Your nostrils could only surrender as the baked cinnamon filled the air. Sometimes the bottom of the oven caught the drippings from the melted icing, only to intensify …
UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN
A recent conversation with a good friend led to an interesting discussion about friendship. What does "being a friend" mean to you? What is the statute of limitations for the friend zone? Is it close to just friends? And how far away from "more- than- friends", "true friends, and real friends"? I still don't know …
Think Black, Die Black, Pause, and Repeat.
Historical Fact: Martin Luther King Jr. was 26 years old, married with children when he began to attract national attention. King, supported by his wife Coretta Scott sacrificed his life to stand against the unjust segregated laws in America. There were many nameless others before him in small towns and big cities who challenged systemic …
YOU HAVE TO COME THROUGH ME FIRST
For Kenneth (January 15, 1956-November 27, 2022)
Black Wall Street
The first time I heard the term "Black Wall Street" I thought it was a reference to Harlem, NY during the 1920's. I was wrong. Black Wall Street was located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This history lesson came in the form of a conference, and by accident. The workshop was a breakout session at a conference …
HOLDING ON
What is it about letting go of something or someone that is not right for you? Or you for them? Especially when you realize It's really not too much of nothing? I am not experienced in faking it until you make it, or until something bigger and better comes along. I think that's wrong... The …
Without Permission
Like liquid charm syrup Easing in slowly, slipping, sliding into a comfortable place Sticky, clinging, sweet to taste... Then boldly walked away Straight out the exit of another fantasy life Without looking back No explanation No warning No justification Caught upside down in the emotional clouds Hot daydreams, night sweats of unfinished business, and soon-to-be …
Speechless
How do you not talk about suicide when it happens to a loved one? If you have any answers, please share. I have this paralyzing feeling of helplessness because the action is so final. I don't know where to release what I feel, or how to express what I feel. I have thought about calling …
Last Name Hickombottom 