Can We Think American For A Minute?

Sometimes, some people get so lost in the political bickering between parties, I think we forget–we are Americans and therefore should be concerned about the plight of Americans as a whole. So, now would be a good time to think about what and who we support.

As an American, who is a registered Democrat, I support the right of a woman to choose–since God gives us freedom to choose–no one else should interfere with that choice.

As an American, I believe we all have a right to defend our homes, but I do not believe anyone needs to own military style weapons that are designed to kill multiple people at a time.

As an American, I believe affordable healthcare should be available to all since none of us knows when a health calamity could show up in our lives.

As an American, I believe hatred should never be condoned or promoted of any group of people simply because they look different or speak differently.

As an American, I believe justice should be rendered equitably and fairly for all people and no one should be above the law.

As an American, I believe all others have the right to live where they want to live and love who they want to love. I am not God and will have no say so in judging anyone at the end of our time, so I simply must love all as I am instructed to do.

As an American, I believe every child is entitled to a quality education no matter where they live or what their parents’ financial situation is.

As an American, I believe this is the only planet we will ever inhabit so we need to take care of it, not destroy it. We need clean air and water and to find energy sources that do not negatively impact the land or destroy wildlife habitats.

As an American, I believe I have the right to express myself without destroying property which is a violation of someone else’s right to their property.

As an American, I believe I have a right and responsibility to call out injustice and inequities when I see them and work to resolve them.

As an American, I believe I have the right to exercise and practice my faith—whatever that might be and not try to force my beliefs on others.

As an American, I have a responsibility to make wise decisions in choosing competent, responsible leadership in every election–leadership that represents and governs for all the people, not just a segment of the people.

As an American, I know truth is always better than lies, even if it hurts.

In reflecting upon all the above statements, there is only one presidential candidate who aligns with my beliefs about being an American, I hope all who read this, come to the same conclusion.  

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Election 2019

Once upon a time, I thought I wanted to run for president and when I found out how much that would cost, I decided to run for an open seat on our city council. Now, I’ve never been overly fond of politics or politicians, but I thought I’d give it try any way. What I learned is–I was right to distrust the political machinery, even in a local election. Corruption has a stench that reaches into the hearts of small towns as well as big cities.

I followed the procedures I was given to get on the ballot–getting the required number of signatures, filing all the paperwork and having it done before deadline. On Memorial Day–2019,  I was told I had a target on my back. I heard what was said, but really didn’t give it much thought. “What can they do to me?” I thought. I knew there was nothing negative anyone would be able to find on me and if anything were publicized, it would have to be because someone made it up. Well, they did, but that didn’t stop me.

So, about a month or two before the election on November 5, 2019, I found out the plot–an 83 year-old white man who had been the former mayor and councilmember was running for the council seat because he didn’t want another African American on the council (we had one who got there by manipulation). Then things got really juicy. I was provided the man’s historical stance in trying to keep Black people out of the city–from blocking the sale of a building to a Black Church, to manipulating the Council into buying the building–only to discover once the city couldn’t afford the upkeep and had to close the building, the building ended up in the hands of a Black Church, anyway.

The name of the city was changed because it included the word, “Detroit” because some people didn’t want the association with the bigger city. About 20 years ago, the Black population was insignificant to most, but since then (around 2008), the numbers have been growing and now, it is believed that 40% of population is Black.

In 2017, the city was sued by the Department of Justice for allegedly violating civil rights voting laws. In November of 2017, a Black person was elected (primarily because of split votes between five Black candidates). In June of 2019, the city and DOJ reached a settlement–the city would use Ranked Choice Voting to establish a pathway for minority candidates to be elected. I ran, but was not successful in my bid for the seat because (viola) the plot to keep me off the council worked (name recognition).

How did it work? The “former mayor” of over 20 years ago, put out campaign signs for himself, another council candidate and a mayoral candidate. Whether others were involved remains to be discovered, but I’m guessing, someone will talk and someone else will hear about it. With the three signs put together in various locations, it gave the impression the three candidates were running as a team or slate (and since the three candidates were white, it made the DOJ lawsuit very relevant). And apparently, that’s how a number of people saw it–manipulation at work.

On election day, November 5, 2019, before the polls closed, the spouse of one of the candidates for council (the incumbent) happened to hold a conversation with a poll worker that he didn’t know, was there for me (correction–he did know). He laid out the entire plan (that was misunderstood by source). “My wife and Henry (pseudonym)  will win, and Mary will get a 1000 votes, then we’ll offer her an opportunity to apply for an appointment” (contextually, this was not reported with full knowledge and understanding of what was being said. The 1000 vote reference was about past experiences for candidates to win).

I got 1061 votes and the next day when we were given the results of the election, I was asked to consider applying for the appointment of a vacated seat. (This blog post ignited conversations–perhaps needed conversations in order to clear the air of any all misunderstandings. However, looking at the “entire” situation, without parsing–the optics were not good and possibly led to the misunderstandings, but I am yet analyzing to understand the motivation that prompted this entire discussion).

While I was considering applying, I got the word not to take it because it had been pre-planned and was possibly in violation of the Open Meetings Act. The way it was explained to me, by someone who had first-hand knowledge of the manipulative way the council worked. Some time ago, a seat was vacated and a number of people applied for the appointment. After the interviews, some were told they were sure to get it, but they didn’t. One of the interviewees found out later that a member of the council was friends with the wife of one of the interviewees and had been promised the positioned. The other person felt this was a waste of his time and since that “policy” was apparently the status quo, he didn’t want me involved with shenanigans. I’m grateful for the info.

Here’s what was offered: I would get the vote for the appointment as long as another person didn’t apply for it. I have documentation of what was said, just in case one or more of parties involved happens to read this. I love paper trails. And for those reading, before jumping to conclusions, try to understand how I perceived what I did. Being a minority, brings a certain mistrust to a number of situations and when a person “watches” what happens (not just hears), I tend to look a little closer look at everything, not just one thing. I’ve been told before that perhaps, I’m too analytical and that may be true, but being analytical means I examine all sides of an issue before drawing definitive conclusions. Note: DOJ has since responded to an inquiry by me and confirmed what I already knew–name recognition used as a means to choose candidates–will not change using Ranked Choice Voting. Basically, nothing much will ever change unless a person changes their name and that still may not work.

So, my proposal to fill the vacant seat is to appoint the person who was already voted for by the residents, rather than have 4-member council (likely divided) to try to make the decision. Based upon the “vacancy” section in the city charter, the council appoints the person to fill the vacancy–“before the DOJ settlement decree” and since the rules for voting changed, there should also be a change  in filling a vacancy since the Election Results record shows, how the next person ranked on the ballots with the residents’ input. The one thing the “plotters” overlooked is who would win the mayor’s seat, but that’s for another article. In that article, I’ll explain how “manipulation” won the day over egos. After all, the same manipulation that worked the first time around–when five Black candidates were in the race, won again–vote splitting–a winning strategy.

Too bad manipulation won’t hold seat. Tick-tock–the 6 month clock is running! Being escorted out a bar for being drunk (and I can imagine disorderly) right before an election–is not a good look and certainly not a “good representation” of self or city.

More next time! Keep watching as the “world turns and manipulation rules” in Eastpointe, MI! At the behest of the residents, I’m going to apply for the appointment and we’ll see how that works, in 2019. If it wasn’t for the residents, I’d call it a day and move on with my life–still helping where I can–but without the weight of corrupt politicism as a burden.

Author’s note: While some folks were trying to block me from winning an election out of pure racial bias, they forgot to keep watch of the mayoral candidate–who just happened to be Black–and won. Talk about Irony!

 

 

Letter To American Congress

Dear lawmakers:

As a citizen in this already great country, I find it incumbent upon me to remind you of your obligations and responsibilities for all Americans since you chose to run for the office you currently have.

Most people think politics is a dirty business and want no part of it. I’m sure in the beginning of your political career you probably thought the same thing, but you were determined to make a real difference in what happens in this country and to make lives better for all. Unfortunately, you like so many others before you, have forgotten about the importance of people and have instead become inured to the plight of the poor and working class in order to keep your position by caving to those with money. “The lust of money (will do anything to get it) is the root of all evil.” And it appears that particular passage of scripture (from most bibles) is true. Greed and the need to satiate a desire for power has been a disruptive factor for many in Congress. I hope this does not describe you, but if it does, it’s time to make a change.

Most Americans realize by now that had it not been for the interference by Russia in 2016 election that many of those in Congress and certainly the person in the White House would not be there. We know you knew about the cheating and it’s time you’re held accountable. Since truth and integrity were not part of the plan to get what you wanted from the beginning, we don’t really expect truth and integrity to find its way back into your lives, but we can hope. While we’re waiting, we’re demanding that you exercise the Constitutional right of oversight of the White House before there won’t be any of us left.

Unless you are totally blind and deaf and ignorant, lacking the mental capacity to see that greed and corruption are what brought us to this place, you know it’s time to remove Donald J. Trump from the Oval Office and Mike Pence who is complicit in the knowledge that greed was the motivator and criminality the end results. We do not need criminals or those who are criminal-minded to be in positions of authority in America. And we certainly don’t need a dictator-wanna-be demanding loyalty from others, seeking praise and attention to appease his insecurities.

The continued existence of our democracy is up to you. Everything that happens–all the bloodshed and deaths–are on your hands. You are responsible. If you no longer have a conscience, you will still stand before God and be judged for all you’ve done–good and bad. If you plan to hear, “well done,” I suggest you do well and govern for the sake of all the people and not just for the Koch Brothers, the Mercers and Murdochs of this world and certainly not for the Russians or the money they give to keep their plan going–to destroy democracy. If you have family, you should care about how the history books will note this passage of your life.

Thank you for being a true, patriotic American in responding the needs of the people and just remember, compromise is not a bad word and neither is bipartisanship if we want to keep America moving forward and not sliding backwards.

Sincerely,

Everyday Americans

The Best For Michigan

For Governor and Lt. Governor of MI Gretchen Whitmer and Garlin Gilchrist II

gretchenwhitmer.com

Sending our current Senator Debbie Stabenow to Washington

stabenow.senate.gov

For the newest Congressional Representative for MI09 Andy Levin

andylevinforcongress.com

For the Congressional Representative for MI08 Elissa Slotkin

elissaforcongress.com

For the Congressional Representative for MI10 Kimberly Bizon

electbizon2018.com

For the Congressional Representative for MI11 Haley Stevens

haleystevensforcongress.com

For the Congressional Representative for MI03 Cathy Albro

cathyalbroforcongress.com

For Attorney General Dana Nessel

dana2018.com

For Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson

votebenson.com

For State Representative for MI107 Joanne Galloway

joannegalloway.com

For State Representative for MI18 Kevin Hertel

hertelforhouse.com

For State Representative for MI22 John Chirkun

johnchirkun.com

For State Representative for MI28 Lori Stone

electloristone.com

For State Representative for MI02 Joe Tate

tateformichigan.com

For State Senator Representing MI09 Paul Wojno

paulwojno.com

For State Senator Representing MI10 Henry Yanez

votehenryyanez.com

For Macomb County Clerk Fred Miller

thefredmillerspot.com

For Macomb County 16th Circuit Court Judge Elizabeth Pyden

elizabethpyden.com

For MI Supreme Court Sam Bagenstos

bagenstosforjustice.com

For MI Supreme Court Megan Cavanaugh

cavanaughforsupremecourt.com

For MI State Board of Education  Judith Pritchett and Tiffany Tilley

For Regents for U of M  Jordan Acker and Paul Brown

For Trustees of MSU  Brianna Scott and Kelly Tebay

For WSU Board of Governors  Anil Kumar and Bryan Barnhill

For Eastpointe School Board  Chineva Early and Robert Roscoe

For Macomb County Commissioner Veronica Klinefelt

Come on Michigan we can do this for a Better Life for all Michiganders!

Vote for every Democrat on the ballot to make sure every citizen in Michigan has their voice heard for generations to come.

 

Money, Money, Money!

Sitting here thinking about “the new world” Christopher Columbus was so excited about when he was making his journey from Spain and got lost. To be clear, he was not the first person to set their sights on the Americas, but that’s a discussion for another time. For now, people need to take a serious look at what we have called a democracy in America.

The pillars for which this democracy upholds are being eroded by Russian influence and a traitor to America. We know that Russia attacked our electoral system and I believe it was not just through the social media accounts–gaslighting gullible people, but it was also through deliberate bribes of those in the electoral college. Notice that in all the swing states where a recount was requested and in some cases started, money convinced judges to call them off. So if money can determine the direction of our country, what is the purpose of the Constitution? What was the purpose of establishing three branches of government by which all policies would be established, reinforced and adjudicated when needed? We have an illegitmately elected clown in the White House–who has ignored the Constitution from the beginning and more despicable clowns in Congress who refuse to exercise their oversight responsibilities. And now, with the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh, a blatant liar, and possible serial sexual predator, the Supreme Court will never again be seen as an arbiter of justice and truth. Three pillars missing from the democratic structure leaves only one left–a free press and even there, that pillar is endanger of toppling with all of the vicious lies told by the White House clown.

I have to wonder if people really understand the significance of this process in which it was nothing like the process, usually observed. Brett Kavanaugh has had several sexual assault allegations lodged against him, he perjured himself under oath during his last hearing, he’s had political PACs paying for advertisements (out of the norm for a judicial nominee), and then because he knew he had screwed up with his belligerence, wrote an OP ED in the Wall Street Journal (owned by Rupert Murdoch who also owns Fox), which defies all logic, other than to conclude, he was begging for the position. His behavior is abominable, but that won’t stop Republicans from confirming him into the position he feels he’s entitled to have. Law Professors have sent letters to the Senate warning them not to confirm him; the ABA has warned them not to confirm him and former classmates have attested to the fact that he was lying while under oath. And why oh why wasn’t the FBI allowed to question the 20 or more people who contacted them with information? Cover-up anyone? If Brett Kavanaugh had any integrity or honor he’d step aside rather than have the Supreme Court’s reputation tainted forever.  Oh yeah, the Republicans know he’s not fit to sit on the bench of the Supreme Court but they don’t care because they care more about their agenda, than people and doing what’s right. Traitor Don will have his “get out jail card” when the crap catches up with him. That’s what this is really all about–along with all other Republicans who are complicit in the Russian meddling. We know. We are not the victims of the gaslighting. That’s trump’s base. Gaslighted into cult worship.

Here’s the thing–all women, Black and White–our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren will be subject to Supreme Court decisions for decades to come. And the one thing I don’t understand is why women would sit back and allow this travesty to continue. When women vote, they should vote for people who are committed to serving them, not the lobbyists who pay them. We deserve a return on the tax dollars all elected persons get for their pay. As a result, voters must take more time in getting to know who it is they’re electing, since we are actually their employers. I don’t want to pay anyone who neglects or ignores my rights in order to obtain money from corporate entities or rich old white men who have nothing better to do with their money than to influence politics and politicians.

With the Supreme Court appointment–a life time appointment–we pay them, too. And if they choose to screw over us all, we’ve allowed it to happen by those we elected who confirmed them. So, now–it really boils down to–how do you want your tax dollars used–to promote sexual predators and those like-minded elected officials who support them or people who look out for all the people, protecting their interest for decades to come? The real issue here is that elected officials get greedy with corporate lobbyists and others. They’re not happy or satisfied with the $174K salary, they want more money and some think they are entitled to more money so they allow their greed to lead them into situations like Russia, where so many are guilty of receiving money from a foreign entity.

So, if we want democracy to work–to have government, “by the people for the people,” we must engage in the process. We must get to know the candidates that seek our support and vote, before we vote for them. We must work side-by-side with those candidates we have *vetted* to encourage others to vote for them. If we’re not going to be part of the process, we can expect to see the dismantling of our democracy by those who wish for it to crumble–the rich and powerful–who will not consider the people since they only care about money. Think–Mr. Scrooge (A Christmas Carol) and remember how the only thing he cared about was his money and making a profit. That’s what we have in the White House now–policies are legislated for the rich, not the poor; tax dollars are being wasted on the rich (US Marshall protection of DeVos, Conway, and others) instead of being used for the poor (healthcare, education, etc.). They’re stripping away all the consumer protections just so their rich cronies can make money–ravaging the land, out of greed. We see it. Gas prices rising along with food costs and everything, but do those in the legislative branch of our democracy care about what happens to the people they’re supposed to be writing legislation for?

I can’t speak for anyone other than me at the moment and all these shenanigans are giving me a headache. My blood pressure is also rising and I guess the next step I need to take would be in suing the White House for decimating my health. That’s a thought. I have to think about it more. Perhaps, the ACLU will take on the case as a class action suit.

I’m not rambling incoherently, I’m thinking out loud about my options and the possible options for others. Someone has to be thinking about–what’s next? We already know trump lied about his own wealth and how he accumulated it (I’ve known since 2016) and the fact that he doesn’t want anyone to see his tax returns, is telling. But we will see them, one way or another. But knowing, definitively, won’t change a thing about our lives, so we must muster all the energy we can to get people out to vote. This is key! We must get people to vote. This is our voice in our crumbling government and if we want to salvage it, we must vote and vote Blue or we may never get a chance to vote again. This is not a scare tactic–this is reality. Anyone can do the research for themselves–pay attention to what Steve Bannon said–destroy democracy in America. Pay attention to the Koch Brothers who have never wanted government in charge of anything. Pay attention to all the Republican politicians who are only interested in pushing forth their agenda–taking steps to move us backwards instead of forward. PAY ATTENTION! If you don’t see what’s happening right in front of you on a daily basis, it’s because you’re not paying attention or you’re willfully blind to the facts as they unfold.

I’m not blinded by gaslighting, nor am I gullible. I am fully capable of thinking for myself, researching information and analyzing what I discover, and drawing accurate conclusions. I know there are millions of others who are just as capable as I am of knowing what needs to be done–65M others who know right from wrong and they are not Putin’s puppets and we don’t have an agenda that involves us getting more money, money, money by ripping off the US Treasury.

Presidential Qualifications

According to the constitution–there are only a few qualifications a person must meet in order to run for president in this country. They are:

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States.

Therefore, if we’re going to be real and factual, our claims (including mine) that trump is not qualified to be president are not necessarily true–according the requirements as written. Apparently, the founding fathers didn’t think far enough ahead to anticipate the menace we now have in the White House–who certainly is not fit to hold the office. Ah ha! The difference between being qualified and being fit is exposed on a daily basis.

So, now how do we determine a person’s fitness for the office?

I’m not convinced that a person has to have held an elected position prior to running for president or be rich or have a well-connected family name. I am convinced that anyone running for the office of president should have a genuine concern and desire to serve all the people in the United States and not just some of them. Therefore, based upon what we’ve seen, the current Oval Office resident is only concerned with establishing policies that benefit the rich and campaigning to appease his base (40%) of the American population. And because people were so foolish to not vote because their candidate didn’t get the nomination in 2016, here we are today, in 2018, trying to figure out how we get out from under the oppressive, authoritarian mess that now exists.

The one bright spot to the traitor’s election is the fact that people–from all walks of life–have felt impelled to run for office and that’s a good thing. Complacency has taken a back seat to the horrors of what we now face as a nation.

I’ve talked to a number of people in the past year and will probably talk to more. Many are running for offices or have run and the recurring them for their political involvement is, “trump happened.” I know that’s true for me–if he had never been installed in office, I probably would have lived out the rest of my life, totally inactive, thinking that voting was enough. Just voting–is not enough! If we want to see a change in this country, every able-bodied, mentally stable American needs to get actively involved in the political process of this country–it’s the way Democracy works.

At any rate, let’s get back to the point I want to make–about having presidential qualifications which include being fit for the office. As most of my followers know, I plan to run for President in 2020. Many have said, they don’t think I’m qualified based upon a few factors: I’ve not held an elected public office (not a career politician), I’m not rich (no matter how rich is defined), and I’m not affiliated with any religious institution (meant to appease the religious sector in the country).

On the other hand, there are number of reasons why I believe I’m the perfect person (qualified and fit) for the position of President of the United States.

• I am an American (though the founding fathers didn’t have me in mind) who believes in adhering to the Constitution of the United States.
• I have been a public servant for over 20 years as an educator and volunteer in various situations.
• I know the three branches of government and the intent for checks and balances needed for a democratic process to work and have an affinity for understanding history.
• I have a better than average understanding of how government is supposed to work and will work to maintain (or restore in this case) the relationships between our allies.
• I have a heart for all people regardless of their ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs or anything else.
• I care about our planet and want to make sure my grandchildren and their children can enjoy breathing clean air, drinking clean water, and in eating foods not poisoned by toxic soil.
• I want every person who desires a higher education to have access to one without overwhelming debt (I know all too well how this is overwhelming)
• I want every educator to be treated with respect and dignity and paid as the professionals they are.
• I want every Senior Citizen to live secure in the knowledge that benefits they paid into will always be available to them.
• I want every American–regardless of age or pre-existing conditions to have access to affordable healthcare.
• I want every veteran who has served this country to be honored as the heroes they are and for them to have every service they need to continue living a productive life.
• I want every American to be treated with respect and dignity and afforded equal rights in every area of their lives.
• I want corporations to pay their fair share of taxes and for them to pay employees a living wage commensurate with their skills and ability.
• I want access for every person who wants to run for an elected office to be able to do so without finances being a barrier that impedes.
• I want to see America’s Democratic process work for every American and that the people determine the direction of our nation, not corrupt, bought and paid for politicians who forget how they were elected in the first place.
• I am as mentally stable as anyone can be at the moment with the constant threat of nuclear war by the menace in the White House who is truly the enemy of the people.

In addition to the above bulleted points–I am physically fit to endure rigors of the office and if for any reason, my physical ability should falter, I have no qualms about moving aside so that the country moves forward with the best person at the helm. My strongest character traits are my integrity and tenacity. My weakest character trait (and I’m working on overcoming it) is believing in the best of people. When I see the worst in them, I acknowledge it and sever ties with them. I know how to love from afar.

For those who think that having an affiliation with a religious institution is important, let me say this. My relationship with Jesus Christ is far more important than an affiliation with any religious institution since they “change” and Jesus does not. I’m happy with my relationship with other believers and even those who don’t. Neither belief or unbelief changes who I am or how I try to live life as a living representation of who God is.

So, now do you think I’m qualified to run for president? Only the voters will make that decision and I hope they find in my favor and elect an Everyday American who cares about all people, rather than a career politician, or entertainer simply because they have the money or family name. I want people to research who I am and determine for themselves whether they think I can represent who they are and address their needs.

 

We Have Power and Authority!

Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. Mark 6:7 NIV

I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Ephesians 3:7 NIV

While the religious are working to undermine the Spirit of The Word of God, we who have received Jesus into our hearts and live to please Him, know we have power by Holy Spirit to accomplish all things–loving all unconditionally–and in doing The Word, not just spouting The Word.

The power and authority are not just given to us to preach the Gospel, but to live the Gospel and to carry over into our everyday lives. We have the power within to receive all the visions and gifts Holy Spirit has for us in order to accomplish all we need to do here on earth.

Unfortunately, there are some who are acting as if the power we have through Holy Spirit is intended to have power over people to control them. God never intended for people–especially not Christians–to control others, but to share the Gospel with them so they, too could receive Holy Spirit and allow Him to control what we do. That’s the Power that needs to control, not the rich who think they are all “powerful” and have a right to dictate to others. The evangelical movement has forgotten what “evangelism” means. It is not about forcing others to share a viewpoint, but to spread the love of Christ and the Gospel message which is “love” not dictatorship. The power we have is not about being religious, but to keep us in Relationship with Christ.

When we love, we do so without hesitation or confrontation, but with acceptance that we are all one race–the human race–and we are all entitled to the same fair, equitable treatment by all. This is not a question of loyalty to a party, but it’s about loving other human beings, not controlling them. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, “God allows us to CHOOSE our paths” and no one else should intervene, knowing there are consequences for whichever path we take in life. That’s God’s way; it is not the way of evangelicals who think they need to control others–especially women.

For the rest of the Believers–we must choose to exercise the power and authority given to us through Holy Spirit so we can promote love, integrity and honor in every arena and event in which we participate. GOD IS LOVE! He loves us in spite of our imperfections and He never told us to put political party views over the care of one another. The least we can do is to love others as He loves us and “defend the rights” of the poor and needy. That’s what He expects us to do–not control people.

I can’t speak for others, but my only desire in running for President in 2020 will be to serve the needs of the people, not to beat people into submission to my will or the will of a political party. Hope you’ll stand with me–exercising the power and authority given us to care for all. Check me out on facebook.com/YesIam2020 and watch for updates.

Words Just Don’t Express!

I’ve spent most of the day, tweeting and calling and encouraging others to call or write the FCC to protect our rights to a free and accessible Internet. The tweets and emails to politicians who were elected to represent the views and perspectives of their constituents but have apparently forgotten all about that. What we see today in the media regarding the illicit leader is beyond words for me. He attacks and demeans everyone proudly proclaiming his lack of intellect, civility and dignity and has certainly put a toxic stain upon the integrity of the office of president.

I’ve tried praying and writing and writing and praying and tweeting and begging his daughter to care enough about him to get him the help he needs–all to no avail.

I’m not the only person who sees trump falling apart or has some would say, having a meltdown that is evident in everything he does. To say that he didn’t know what the job entailed would be an understatement, but it didn’t stop him from undermining and demeaning President Obama. To say that he doesn’t understand how government works–another understatement–he has no clue and none of his enablers will tell him the truth. To say he doesn’t understand history–the biggest understatement I could make in my lifetime. What trump doesn’t know–about anything remotely related to governing–is enough to fill a few oceans. But I’m trying to be careful of my depiction of him.

You see, unlike him, I know karma can leave a sting in the butt that nothing can remove or ease the pain. I’m planning to be in the White House in 2021 after a successful win, not garnered by cheating with Russians or anyone else for that matter and certainly not by suppressing the rights of others to vote, or not counting their votes. You see, this is how trump won and those who enable him, are his apologists and supporters–know exactly how he won.

I care about how history will treat me as I serve the American people. Notice I said, “serve” not dictate to them, but honor them in all that I do and my commitment to make life better for all Everyday Americans. I also know that “compromise” is not a foul word and that it takes compromise–from both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill to get things moving and growing. I know I don’t have time or energy to feed my ego to make governing America all about me–it’s all about, “We The People” whether people vote for me or not. I cannot just consider policies that benefit only those who voted for me. In fact, once the election is over, I must start composing an agenda and garnering all the experts who will help me make it happen.

I’m not rich–far from it.  I’m a retired educator with a limited income and will have to raise money for my campaign using rather unusual methods and encourage all who want to see real change in Washington to help support my bid. I’ve already calculated that since (before deportations and others changing their citizenship after 2016 election) our population is about 327 million, I’m guessing that roughly 80% of those are registered voters and will vote–best guestimate. That means there are approximately 261 million registered voters and if 40% of those voters (104 million) would donate $3 towards my campaign, I’d have enough to do everything I need to win and turn the tide in bringing America back to its former position of being a leader on the global stage.

Oh, sure. I know there are skeptics about my ability–heck some days, I allow the enemy to convince me I’m wasting my time, but then something happens to re-ignite my hope and faith, and I gear myself up to keep on going. That’s what this post is about–pushing me to keep on going. Listen, many could create a list of things that I don’t know about governing, but I’ll start my list as to what I do know: I know I love this country and every citizen in it–and I know how to love unconditionally because I am loved–unconditionally. I care about the well being of everyone–especially the poor and the vulnerable. I know with the right people around me–guiding and advising me, America can only get better–adding to its greatness. I know I can take with me to the White House, dignity, integrity and honor–along with a sense of humor and a bit of silliness to shake off the negative Nellies. I also don’t golf–if that means anything to anyone–I’m pretty much a homebody–traveling only when I need to do so. I love to read, write, bowl, and watch a good movie. I also love to encourage others to extend themselves–beyond their reach–in order to reach their goals.

I know I don’t have to be rich to know what’s best for others. I’ve been through the struggles and challenges that many face–being a single mother, having had a childhood full of lack, no one pushing or encouraging my direction in my life, but there was within me–a spark–that ignited risk and kept me going–daring to venture into fields and arenas where I had no knowledge. And as one person told me through the years, “No matter what happened to you, you always landed on your feet.”

I’m adventurous–a pragmatic optimist–and I seldom give up or give in when I’m trying to accomplish anything. I refuse to let circumstances inhibit me. Sometimes I’ve failed to accomplish all that I wanted to accomplish, but with the failures always came the lessons and it is the lessons learned in life–with all of my miss-steps and flaws that have molded me into being the person I am today. That’s right–I’m confident I am the Everyday American leader we need to have the voices of all Everyday Americans heard.

Nothing I say–at this juncture may convince and I certainly hope nothing said will deter you from reviewing my stance on the issues that I believe matter to most. facebook.com/YesIAm2020.  Leave a comment if I haven’t addressed a specific concern of yours and I’ll respond to you as quickly as I can.

If we’re going to make a difference in what happens to the poor and vulnerable–all those who don’t and won’t make $75K a year, we have to work together to accomplish our goal. I’m with you and I hope you’ll be with me as we navigate this journey to the White House together. Look at that–maybe I found the words I needed to express myself today after all!

How We Treat Others Matters!

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. Romans 13:8-14 NIV

What are those desires of the flesh that keep us from loving? Jealousy and hatred–once the seed is planted and nurtured by failure to accept responsibility for self–leads to actions ignited by our fleshly desires to avenge perceived (even if the perception is wrong) injustices.

Where the Spirit of the Lord is–there is liberty and love. Where there is no love, there is no perceptible presence of Christ. For when the heart of a person is filled with love, there is no room for hatred and bigotry and racism doesn’t stand a chance. When we acknowledge that none of us are perfect and are all in need of a perfect Savior, we open the door and prepare the soil of our hearts to receive His love and allow it to be nurtured by continuing our lives, loving others. This is how we ought to treat one another. For if we know we love one another, we will not plot to do harm to one another. We will not set traps in hopes that others will fall into them for we realize the traps we set–we’re liable to fall into ourselves–realizing the Hamanesque effect.

How can we claim to be Christians–followers of Christ–if we don’t know Him for ourselves? To know Christ is to know His Word and to know how He lived among men and to do likewise. Jesus was not silent when He saw injustice, but rose up mightily to condemn it and so should we. He was the ultimate rebel in tearing down religion and religious leaders who only wanted to control others, not live for God. All that He did, He did with love at the forefront of His life so we might understand that we can do all things and should do all things in love for Love–for He is Love.

Again, I say, where there is love, there is no room for hate and where we find hate, we must drive it out with love, not more hatred. Those who think they are superior to others do not know Christ for we are told in His Word that we ought not to think more highly of ourselves than warranted. God is not mocked nor fooled by superficial acknowledgment of who He is. He looks upon the hearts of all and sees the discernible difference between the light of love and the darkness of hate. He knows! We cannot fool Him with mocking rhetoric that sounds like being a Christian.

Unfortunately, for those who think they are mocking God, He will have the last word when we stand before Him and He tells some, “Depart from me, I never knew you.” Those are not the words I want to hear from God when I stand before Him, so I’ll keep promoting truth, integrity, honor and love and where there is opportunity to rise up against hate and bigotry, I will rise to the occasion and never back down.

I’m Mary Hall-Rayford and I approve this message of love and hope you will, too!

The Lord In The Midst

A psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.  Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23 NIV

It is The Lord who should be guiding us in all we do, not a man or a woman–those who are mere mortals.

It is The Lord who gives us courage to do all we need to do or say.

It is The Lord who strengthens us to stand against the evil that so easily pervades a nation.

It is The Lord who has determined that goodness and love will follow us all the days of our lives.

It is The Lord who speaks through us when we speak truth to power for He is truth.

It is The Lord who gave Himself as a sacrifice for all mankind–not any man or woman–those mere mortals.

It is The Lord who will save us and not us in the midst of all the foolishness and chaos.

It is The Lord who walks with us and talks with us when no one else is around, guiding us to His Word.

It is The Lord who will ultimately see all the wrong righted and the evil defeated by whatever name it sows discord.

It is The Lord who will determine our eternal resting place–be it heaven or the lake of fire–based upon what we do, not what others do.

It is The Lord who will guide all who have a heart to hear Him and obey.

When The Lord is in the midst of our plans, He will bring it to pass.

Who is The Lord? He is the God of Heaven, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit walking in lockstep, watching all we do, hearing all we say, and loving us no matter what, yet correcting us when we disobey or miss the path He has designed for us.

The Lord is truth and light and there is no darkness in Him.

The Lord abhors lies and liars and has prepared the lake of fire for all who lie.

The Lord does not force His Will upon anyone, but allows us choice in all we do.

The Lord loves and imparts His love upon all who will receive, never allowing the darkness of hate to enter into His heart or ours.

In Him, we find all we need to inspire us to greatness and in doing great things, yet keeping us humble and our focus on Him. In Him, we have a shelter and haven from all the sick minds that promote hatred out of their own bitterness and anger. In Him, we find a gathering place where neither gender or skin tones matter. In Him, is our hope for peace on earth and eternal rest with Him.

I cast all my cares upon Him and I lean upon Him for guidance in my life for next three years and beyond as I journey into the political arena. I’m trusting Him to keep my integrity intact, my honor exposed for all to see and the love in my heart overflowing onto every Everyday American with whom I come into contact. He has promised in His Word that when we delight in Him, He gives us the desires of our hearts and I desire to serve all Americans with respect and dignity and to maintain the office of the presidency with all the sanctity it deserves. This I declare by Him who is Holy and all-knowing!