Tawandabee.com

Tawanda Bee has her own website now. Come on over for a visit...

Just Do It

Watching little league baseball is amazing. The dads coach their boys with all of their hopes and dreams jumping off their shirt sleeves. I heard one such coach tell his son, "Even if its a bad decision, make it quick."

I think I know what he meant. Don't think too much... just keep your eye on the ball and swing the bat. By the time the ball gets by you, it is too late to decide it was right over the plate. You gotta just make a decision and swing.

How cool to learn this lesson at eight years old. Don't worry if its right or wrong. That discernment will come with experience. For now, just do it!

Made in USA

Reflections from Tahrir Square in Egypt

“The police used huge amounts of tear gas to disperse protesters … ten and twenty at a time … billowing into huge clouds of gas that engulfed entire streets.”

MADE IN USA

Hatred makes me sad

I stopped reading the paper and watching tv a few years ago, and now I remember why.

I heard about the tragedy in Tuscon and was so sad - so very sad for the loss of life and the circumstances around the shooting. I felt the sadness like a heaviness - a weight on my heart. So when I heard there was going to be a memorial service, I tuned in. President Obama's speech lightened my load and helped me remember that hope still lives.

Then I ran into Tammy Bruce and I almost threw up.

Someone, please help me understand such hatred. Please help me see what may be driving this woman's words. I am baffled and confused... and sad. Just plain sad.

Well, the Tucson Tragedy Memorial Obama Rally was, we’re told, really supposed to be a Pep “Unity” Rally, so they meant all that cheering and campaign-like atmosphere. Except for Governor Jan Brewer who was booed by the Unified, Peppy crowd. Only certain people get the Unity, you see. The branding commenced, the free t-shirts were handed out, and concessions were no doubt enjoyed. Funny, I don’t think I’m the only one who remembers Obama BSing and manipulating his way through the 2008 election, and I just saw it happen again tonight. And just like in 2007 and 2008 quite a number of conservatives thought the speech was just fabulous. It certainly is a stark reminder of how the Dumb Bastard got elected in the first place.
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I, for one, will continue to speak as clearly as possible when the Emperor is stark raving naked. I hope you’re with me for the next two years doing exactly that. (Tammy Bruce)

Opera Company of Philadelphia "Hallelujah!" Random Act of Culture

My Facebook friend Mary shared this Random Act of Culture, and I was moved by the effect on the audience... just like the effect of a Random Act of Kindness on an individual.

Then I got to read Mike's post about his random act. I so would love to hear this young man's sermon!

couldnt resist giving a young guy some old guy advice..while getting tea @ melrose mcDs this AM i found him pouring over a bible/notes/pads in a booth..i inquired & he told me he was a student working on a sermon 4 sunday..added he was struggling for just the right message to give..i smiled & suggested he put his notes/pad away & try finding God's message in the people sitting around him. (quoted with permission from Mike Kopp via Facebook)

Farmville Community

In playing Farmville, you have to rely on your neighbors to lend a hand in your barn raisin'. The first time I tried to make it happen, I didn't get enough help... time expired and my barn was still incomplete.

The second time around, I posted a request for help on my wall. Within 2 days, my barn was complete. Funny how playing a game on Facebook can provide me with a key reminder... ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED.

We all love to contribute to the well being of others. It is a gift that fulfills our own needs for love, support, contribution, caring... making a difference in the world. What I forget is that this is a two-way street. Others also like to contribute to me.

The art of letting go

When I have not painted in a while, it takes me some time to get in the groove. In the groove for me means letting go...

Let go of trying to figure out what people might think
Let go of perfectionism - the thought that every painting has to be great
Let go of the need to please anyone but myself

This time when I let go, I painted my converse... and I really like it!