American History from Black Contributors

The terms 'African-American History Month', or 'Black History Month', minimize our many contributions to society. The inventors, scientists, doctors, creators of cosmetics, educators, farmers, entertainers - all walks of Americans who happen to be Black who performed their acts of brilliance wasn't just for the benefit of Black folks. Their contributions were for the advancement of all of human-kind. It's about time we stop being a subset in our own nation. So, I stand to disagree with the aforementioned terms that we so proudly use. It should be called, "American History Month - From Black Contributors". Other races, e.g., white, native American, latino, asian, etc., should all identify themselves in the making of American history.

Medical History

Gentlemen! Your temple may need a little inspection. We've all heard that our body is our temple. That is ever so true. When was the last time you had a complete physical examination? I mean complete, with MRI, EKG, blood work and prostate check? Age doesn't matter. Younger cats are shockingly dropping to sneaky and vicious conditions more frequently than in times past. Some of these young and older men alike, are the epitome of good health. So if you're young and don't think you need a complete physical, you may be sitting on a condition that could have been detected sooner.

Another matter that we often take for granted is medical history. Not only knowing your personal history is crucial, but knowing family health history is vital. Parents, siblings, grand-parents, aunts, uncles are all from the same seed. Genetics can have an endless voyage from generation-to-generation, carrying a payload of potentially menacing health conditions. Your own children can be at risk too if you can't tell the pediatrician any family medical history.

One last observation. Before you permit your youngster or teen play strenuous competitive sports, command an EKG, at the least from their pediatrician. Don't rely on the clinic the school or team organizers recommend to provide a thorough exam. The doctor through your medical provider has to honor your request, and your insurance will not dispute the charges if the service is performed during a routine physical. Thank you for reading. We want you around a long time.

Better Than a Tax Return

This was a genuine prayer. It took nine years for me to be ready to receive it. Then it was answered.

Itemized Desire
by Steve E. Masters  -  All rights reserved

The woman I desire
Don't have to be super fine
Not just another berry in the bushel
She has to be one of a kind

One who is genuinely feminine
A lady in every drop
And when she smiles at me
It causes my knees to knock

Prefer her to be smart as a whip
And not swollen with pride
Isn't always insistent on the lead
But is happy by my side

She knows how to handle herself
But humble enough to step back
Is dignified and respected
And wise enough to avoid society's traps

A partner I can trust
That doesn't live in the past
Learns how to respect me
And boasts of me as her man

She has to be my friend
Seeing the benefits of honest communication
Refuses to be petty
And desires to have an adult relation

The girl has a good sense of humor
And can groove to my jungle-boogie
Like only a good intimate knows
I desire nothing less than pure honey

She knows how to manage things
Does it with dedication and skill
Will pray with me and encourage me
To stay in God's will

Not looking for another mother
Already had one of those
Nor do I want the one
With neon flashing "rent-to-own"

It would be nice if she realizes
That the haul may be long
But with real love and trust
We'll grow together and remain strong

Make A Baby, Father the Child

A proud father will desire to be present for every breath their child takes. From the child's first breath to your last. We need more children. Our race is moving more and more toward extinction at a steady pace. But being a father is more than just having a child. A lot of today's men didn't have the privilege of being reared with a father present. Don't repeat that cycle. If your intent is not to have a child, then take the necessary precautions to prevent pregnancy.

We are so predictable to our society. We are not expected to take care of our child. Prove society wrong. Hopefully if you father a child, you have intentions of marriage and keeping the family together. If not, take care of the child's needs - ALWAYS. If the mother gives you trouble about seeing the child, then take her to court. I repeat, take her to court. If your current woman tries to block you from supporting your child that you had in a previous relationship, then shut her down or demand the respect as a father. Stop letting these women punk you into not taking care of your responsibility. If you owe back child support, bite the bullet and make arrangements to pay it.

Keep in mind, that anything that you are supposed to do is not a sacrifice. Your child cannot father himself/herself. A woman is not a man. She cannot take the place of a man. Be a good example. Your friends, your uncle, even your father should not deter you from taking care of your seed. Your nurturing will play a critical role in how good the fruit will be. When you get home from work, spend time with that child. They can't wait to see daddy. On the weekends, forget the game sometimes - take your kid to the park to fly a kite, to a movie, to a science museum. Focus on your child and not the women who will flirt with you. And believe me, they will. Make your goal to consist of doing more for your child than you had growing up.

Brother's, our race needs you. Our survival depends on you. Our place and impact is in your hands. Our children are yours. Your wholeness as a man, in part, is granted when you can say that you were there for your child. If you make a baby, father the child.