February 2015 – Roots To The Soul

24 Feb

February 24, 2015June 1, 2015K Joi Self Improvement/Worth 2 Comments

What is your Vice?

I believe we all experience and handle things differently. As life moves forward, we all tend to turn to our own things to cope with the disappointment, pain, lack of processing or accepting. Due to this we have probably all or most of us had some sort of vice we turn to. Vice defined per Merriam-Webster:bad or immoral behavior or habits, a moral flaw or weakness, a minor bad habit. What’s your vice and why?

Alcohol

An alcoholic may say they turn to alcohol as it is their way of feeling better about whatever is going on. However, most alcoholics drink to the point that they slur their speech and handle things in such a different manner.If you are a non drinker, you will not be able to relate. Alcohol is one of those things that can easily go from a something to turn to into more. I can say as one that has turned to drinking when processing death in my family, that it isn’t always the best option. However, I am not a huge drinker as my friends would say. I enjoy a glass of wine, a beer, or some liquor after or during a crazy week. I don’t tend to find myself in the bottom of the bottle to escape what is going on. However, the people that battle with alcoholism are truly in a tough battle. The ones I have seen that are on that borderline find themselves unable to reach a point of satisfaction with the alcohol at some point. Others tell themselves that one drink a day that ends up being a bottle is one way to relax under a long day. I am not judging but I will say that if you often find yourself sleeping on the side of the road or not knowing how you got home after heading out… you may be on the line of making this more than your vice. The even odder thing about it is alcohol can be a depressant for so many. I am unsure if people really see it as that. I am sure many of us have had our drunk dialing days, but overtime you grow from this stage and to point where getting a drink socially is great. If you define it as your way to satiate the daily events and you are unable to control the liquor… My only concern is what happens when what is in the bottle no longer deals with the monsters under your bed. Do you turn to something stronger? Do you stop before your liver is unhealthy? At what point does the vice become more then a bad habit and onto something you get up in the morning looking for. If you find yourself drinking more liquor than water, it is your vice and you may want to consider the best way to handle this.

Smoking

The figures represent the percentage of the population who are current smokers.⁴

Per the CDC fact sheet released on January 23, 2015, nearly 18 of every 100 U.S. adults aged 18 years or older (17.8%) currently smoke cigarettes. This means an estimated 42.1 million adults in the United States currently smoke cigarettes.This particular vice is so concerning no matter if it is cigarettes and weed, etc. Is the nicotine that draws you in?? What is it that you are relieving yourself from? I have heard smokers say they get to the point where they crave the nicotine just as coffee drinkers crave the caffeine. I hear smokers say if they stop smoking they will gain weight and don’t want to have to address that factor. So many smokers I know started at an early age due to trying to alleviate stress, look cool, or was attempting to fit in.They always planned to stop or quit but found that nicotine had them bound by the neck. I wonder if the stress outweighs the damage done to the lungs and breathing. My father smoked cigarettes for years on end. I prepared myself at an early age that one day the satisfaction from the puff may be what claimed his life. Although that wasn’t it, I am not sure if parents understand the strain and stress it brings to their children to see their parents smoke for years. Smokers that smoke weed will advise it is natural and since on the Earth it is natural and should be no issue with using it. I can’t say that I hear of weed smokers having as hard of a time trying to put it down vs the cigarettes. So if it gets to a point where you cant put it down or go through a day without it, is it considered an addiction?

Sex

Sex as a vice versus just enjoyment could be seen two different ways. Most people enjoy the connection with another person through this avenue. Just remember to be smart and safe about it. I believe that most that turn to sex as a vice aren’t addicts but maybe have a void of affection they are attempting to fill. Many of those are dealing with personal issues that may include rape, molestation, or feeling that this is what validates them. I don’t know that I would characterize someone that uses it as a vice as an addict as I think there would be some distinctions there based on definitions. I wonder with this if it is considered you guys see it as a vice if they are continuing the same act with the same person. Is it only an issue if the person they are having sex with is toxic? I also wouldn’t consider someone with a high sex drive being someone that uses sex as a vice.

I think all three can be dangerous if not used in moderation. As we all face the whirlpool that we endure daily called life and we have to learn to deal with those issues head on. A vice, I believe can be handled in moderation and not leave a negative impact on your life. However, I think there can be a line that people can easily skip over that takes you from getting through that moment to an addiction that requires a program. Many of us at a young age turn to these things because we may not be sure what else to do. I want to remind you after having turned to some of these as well that after taking to one of these, the problem is still there when you wake up from your drunken stupper. When that cigarette burns out? When the partner you don’t know leaves after the act. I hope your support teams are willing to step up and say something. I know I have had that uncomfortable conversation with those I know I care about. Make time folks to process what you go through as sweeping it under the rug only leaves it around to later terrorize you after that vice is worn off. You don’t want to reach the point where that vice is no longer taking you to the place you want to be and find yourself inching into areas that are not longer vices, but rather now are sure addictions.

17 Feb

February 17, 2015May 29, 2015K Joi Community/Events 2 Comments

Up Close and Personal with The Online Happy Hour

One day while at my second home Ten Eleven Grill I happened to meet someone that mentioned he had an online radio show. My first thought, was an online radio show?? How does that work? I haven’t heard much about these type of radio stations and from there on the way I viewed radio was different. A radio was not longer the look of a boom box or a radio with a cd player and tape player. Radio has changed over the years and this show definitely raised the bar. It’s title is just the tip of the iceberg into the gateway of reality. Radio stations in my day played music and you knew the radio personalities, but was more about the music, sponsors, commercial, etc. The Online Happy Hour brings controversial, real life concerns to the table. It is the most listened to show on DFWIRadio.

The Mind Behind the Creation

He is a father, life coach, host, and a writer. He is one of the hardest working men that I have run across in a long time. He takes pride in being an involved father and writing about things that will reach out and help others. He doesn’t try to hide behind the simple topics to discuss and believes in giving back to his community. He is Andy Brown and known by many as AB. He is a Kansas City, MO native and a graduate from Grambling State University. He started out with blog talk radio in 2009 and expanded to DFWIRADIO and TMIRADIO. He is the author and play of Second Place Women Come in First and Mixed Emotions. He continues to push himself to stay above trends and is focused on bringing awareness amongst us. AB is truly a people person and loves to talk with people and hear their feedback on everyday events.

The Online Happy Hour

The show itself has been on since 2012 and continues to grow. They discuss topics from education, relationships, community, gender roles, domestic violence, and current events. It starts at 6 PM and goes until 8 PM CST and takes place in Grand Prairie, TX. The Online Happy Hour can be accessed by phone, laptop, or computer by typing in www.dfwiradio.com.com. It is sponsored by Deep Eddy and one of the Deep Eddy Betties also frequents the show.

The Online Happy is truly that and offers drinks that can be mixed right in the studio. The show not only offers an open place for sharing ideals and opinions, but a chance to have a drink with people you come to know fairly well. At times there are guest speakers that call in or drop by, but no matter who you are AB makes you welcome in the studio. I was nervous about showing up and being a part of the show when available, but once I got there and met everyone; that was no longer a concern. It is a laid back atmosphere with parties from all walks of life that are ready to share their input and reasoning. I have met doctors, lawyers, educators, government workers, military employees, poets, bloggers, and many more while visiting. The show allows for time to talk with callers on the show. Listeners also have other alternatives to comment on Facebook and Twitter. The conversations get fairly deep based on the crowd in the studio and the parties calling in. I personally think the best part of the show is after the topic surface gets scratched some and everyone is talking. All tend to be respectful of the others opinions, but the show does touch on topics that is considered touchy for some. When discussing racial issues, reading in the black community, education, and things such as dating people tend to have a lot to say. As Andy would say, “It is hot as fish grease in there at times.”

It takes me back to the topic of Tokenism… Man, Man, Man. I promise that two hours flew by as we addressed issues this derived from in the community, mindset, misconceptions, gave examples of how this could be handled. I wish I could fully recap a few of his shows for you. They are just so heartfelt and full of people sharing knowledge. We all learn from one another and it can help to hear experiences and background of so many. So many times it is about trying to understand how a person gets there and due to the autonomy on the show we can dig just that deep.

The Online Happy Hour is the only radio show I have seen that keeps the energy level it begins with throughout the show. I believe this can be hard to keep going as many times people clam up as different ideas are shared. However, in this environment and the set up that he has that doesn’t happen. Normally one of us is waiting to talk next which doesn’t leave any dead air time or silence. Andy does make sure although we are chatty in the studio, that the callers calling and people sending messages are being recognized as well and their opinions are discussed. It may very well be his show, but he does not tie his visitors to only one side of the story or restrict comments. If you happen to miss the show you can catch it on DFWIRADIO.com by clicking on the demand tab and The Online Happy Hour tab. The shows are normally available for about a week after airing.

During the show there are commercial breaks playing commercials from people that were looking to advertise on his show to grow their market. I love hearing what is new and going on in the community through the advertisements. They are different then those you hear on other stations. If you are looking for a marketing piece for your business, he is also available for that as well. I can personally attest to this as I have seen my market grow while marking with The Online Happy Hour.

The topic today is Black History Month: Vol 3:Cultural Diversity or not and will be broadcasting live from Ten Eleven Grill tonight at 1011 Corinth Dallas, TX 75… from 6PM to 8 PM. Feel free to come out and join us as this venue is celebrating Fat Tuesday. No cover, gumbo, shrimp, catfish and drink specials.

Come out and join us today if you can. If you can’t don’t miss the topic today and every Tuesday evening after.

In March the show is moving to TMIRADIO.com and feel free to follow the show on Facebook and Twitter.

03 Feb

February 3, 2015May 29, 2015K Joi Community/Events One Comment

We Are Worthy Women

“Fear of flying will make you scared of your own heights.”

-MasterPiece

The Creator

She is a Dallas native and has had a love for poetry from a young age. This young lady is not only beautiful, but ambitious. She is a mom, a recognized poet, has her own fragrances, she has her poetry in book and cd format, and models. She travels the world currently to perform her poetry. She is always polite, stays smiling, and never lets the crowd down with her performances as a poet. She is always dressed to kill in a sexy, but classy outfit with heels. She is a true queen…her name is MasterPiece.

The Mission

It is a series of healing, through love, empowerment, and spiritual elevation. Women will come together as community to talk about our issues and how we can help ourselves and others face challenges and move forward as women of worth.

The Event

It takes place on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

It is for Women ONLY, FREE, and is a judgment free zone. This event is open to all ages, but some things that come up could be graphic in nature so please keep that in mind.

Ladies!!!! This is truly what many of you are seeking. No matter if you are new to Dallas or have been here all your life, we all search for a safe haven to just let our shoulders down and share our pain and joys we have experienced. So many times I hear women that have not been able to find a support system with other women due to certain issues that have come up. However, I urge you to attend this event with an open mind. This is the second series she has put on and the women that come are supportive, respectful. and looking to grow from one another. This event is structured in the way that she does have a speaker or two available to discuss key topics. It is laid back in the way that you are made welcome to get on the mic and speak, share your story, your opinion, or just partake. You are welcome to come as you are. I noticed there was no different treatment between those that were dressed coming from more than likely the business world or something more relaxed. It is open seating and offers you an opportunity to sit with women you many know or may not know. As the event moves forward there were handouts given and some group activities. I thought this was wonderful because many women came alone and this allows people a chance to interact. At times as women we can walk into an event like this and be nervous or a little anxious. Everyone was friendly and smiling. MasterPiece, her guest, and her assistant greeted the ladies which always helps someone feel more invited and ready to share. The event generally will have a topic of discussion, but there is time available to have open discussion and ask questions. She also ask us to share topics that we would like to discuss. MasterPiece not only shared her own story candidly, but was very engaged as women shared their thoughts and opinions. I loved, loved, loved this event. I think more than anything because when you can tell the creator is there for exactly what the event stands for you can feel that spirit in the atmosphere.

If you still aren’t considering… she has vendors there as well. This past Thursday the vendors had jewelry and books. They had also located a young lady that needed assistance and were accepting donations for that family on a volunteer basis.

So this event isn’t always going to be what you can get out of it, but perhaps your words or contribution can help save someone else. We never know by looking at a person, what all they are enduring. Let’s support our fellow sisters, no matter the race, background, work status, clothing, assumed labels or stereotypes!!! I believe my tears of pain can help water the roots of another gals soul.

The Location

Ten Eleven Grill @ 1011 Corinth Street Dallas, TX 75215

This location is easily accessed from people coming from all over the DFW area. This venue is a homegrown business ran by the Bryant’s.. They have a wonderfully friendly staff, a menu that offers multiple options, a bar, tasty food, and an intimate setting. Ten Eleven has housed the first series as well. They fix all food fresh to order and is flavorful. I personally am not a wing person but love the wings there. They have items from cheese fries, jumbo shrimp, fish combos, and turkey burgers. The food is reasonably priced and comes with plenty of food.

I would like to give a personal thanks to her sponsors for the event. Universal Purpose which is a creator of fragrances and body lotions and Dynasty 2k Enterprise Philanthropy.

Thanks to the Queen herself for being willing to share herself and her story to help others heal. Everyone is not willing to do so for a greater purpose. DFW has been needing these types of events and I look forward to seeing this event continue to grow as well as growing with the group.

Masterpiece is doing so much. If you enjoyed what you read… I suggest you read the blog called F.L.O.W (please check on Facebook or her site for updates on this event) after her poetry event. I hope you will make it out to this event and check out the other things she is doing.

You can follow this beautiful soul at facebook.com/groups/weareworthywomen or contact her at

masterpiecepoet@gmail.com