Quiet Desperation

I hate backseat drivers don’t you? No matter how hard you try their annoying voices are always in the back of your head-literally. I have two adult children. They’ve transitioned from asking me “are we there yet?” over and over to asking “are you sure you can park here legally” over and over. Just as…

M is for Martyr

This is my quick and dirty on suppression. No I don’t mean oppression as in not being allowed to vote or get a formal education. Nor, do I mean repression as in memory inhibition like the unconscious exclusion of painful memories. I mean conscious suppression of your emotions, thoughts, and desires to make the people…

What’s Wrong With Being A Cougar?

The word “cougar” has traditionally referred to a powerful and graceful member of the Felidae family. Now, the definition has inexplicably changed from “big cat” to “aging sex kitten.” This popular tendency to define self-reliant women by their sensuality instead of their success is just wrong. If you disagree, show me ONE stereotypically unattractive or…

Community Engagement & Free Black History Month Program in Austin, Texas

Cougars understand that “to whom much is given…much is required” or, as I like to say, “You must pay the taxes on your title.” After family, community service is my preferred way to pass it forward. Last year, I launched a community service initiative called Austin’s Black Newcomers Association (ABNA), in my new hometown, Austin,…

Just Give Up in 2011

I said it. Make sure you pronounce my name right when you repeat my advice. I prefer moe-nee-ka. Monica says, give up. Throw in the towel. Call it quits. Sayonara, Zetusubou-Sensei. Chunk up them deuces. Yes, dearest, Santa is not coming and for my last blog of 2010, I’m strongly suggesting you stop trying PERIOD….