You all have survived another week! Doesn’t it feel great? I hope you all had a great week and accomplished the things that you want to do. Just remember as we enjoy another weekend, somebody is working to pass you up! …are you going to let that happen? Don’t rest to much…

“everyday, a star is born”
OneLove

This guy is serious and don't play any games! ..I laughed but he is so serious. I had to post it! Enjoy..

WOW!!!!

Any journey that you start, either if it’s a thousand miles, or just twenty feet…it all starts with that first step. I hear so many people say they wish they had this, that, and everything in between…The thing that amazes me is most about these people, is most of them have not even taken the first step to getting what they want. I mean, they make it seem as if these desires that they have are just going to fall in their lap. Anything that is worth having in this world is not going to be handed to you, or be easy to obtain by any means…somewhere down the road you are going to have to put in the work.

The approach that I take is to not have a great desire of money and material items… but to have a desire of success, and to have a desire of success; I have to have a BURNING DESIRE TO WORK! If I position my focus there, I know everything else will fall into place.

Matthew 9:37 says… “The harvests is plentiful, but the laborers are few”

“Our work is never over”

OneLove.

"The battles that count aren't the ones for gold medals. The struggles within yourself—the invisible, inevitable battles inside all of us—that's where it's at." --Jesse Owens

What a beautiful day it is…

Not in the sense of the weather, sunshine..or lack thereof. But in the sense that we are lucky/blessed to even see this day.. That we have the opportunity to express ourselves however we feel. That we have the choice to add to the hate, or increase the positive. To continue to gain .. or to give back. To think/talk about the change .. Or be the change. To talk about love .. or show love

See we live in a universe now where it is very hard to see and feel love. We as mortals in this world get so caught up in life that we probably don’t even notice it. Love is a beautiful thing, and should be seen and felt in many different behaviors and acts of life.

Every day we walk out our house, there are a million of things going on around us. People looking unhappy, road rage, drug deals and people dying.

Why is this a norm and a custom of what this universe is…is this what we are here for? Is this what we are to experience? Is this what we are to see and do nothing to change?

Think of everything that has happened in this world because of the lack of love…

Love is; but isn’t complicated at all! Loving you is loving me! If you love the universe, it will love you back. If you love people, they will love you back. If love is a place where you want to go...first you must go within. Be genuine and you will be felt…

Ok, on the count of three…I’m going to my fantasy…
OneLove.WorldLove.

Unless you are willing to drench/saturate/douse/flood/soak/over flood/immerse and engross yourself in your work beyond the capacity of the average man, you are just not cut out for positions at the top

This is a very thirst and hungry universe that we live in. The next man is always working harder than the net man! What are you doing to put yourself on top?

As the weekend approaches us…will you look at it as time to rest, or will you look at is as a time to get ahead because the average man is resting!

You will only go as far as you want to.

Are you cut out to be on top?
OneLove.

I apologize to you all right now…its been like two weeks since I hit you with something. My world has been super crazy/busy and I’m just trying to make sure I balance everything. Working a full-time job and being a full-time student is serious business. And then of course I love to work out and play basketball…got to have some me time in there somewhere. I think I’m finally finding that balance of what is needed of me to be successful in all that I do. If I’m ever involved in something, I have to do it to my best ability…no half stepping my way.

But yo I got something to tell you... So the weather here in Iowa has been crazy nice…I don’t understand it, but I’m not going to complain! But, I went to the car wash the other day…I hadn’t washed my car in about a month. And for those who know me, know I keep my car clean. But as I was vacuuming my car out, I couldn’t help but notice this older couple that walked by. I don’t like to judge people but the thing that stuck out to me was that they seemed to be in poverty/or lower class. By making that assumption and watching them walk away…so many thoughts have crossed my mind.

This couple was not dressed nice, not well groomed, and didn’t seem to have what the world calls the nicer things in life. Who know their circumstances…but I do know one thing; that was one beautiful sight!

…I couldn’t help but to think about obstacles they may have overcame together, how long they been together, how much they have to walk to get to places they need/want to be, how much pain and suffrage they have went through, if they have family, how they got to where they are today. So many thoughts continued to poor out….

But as I continued to watch them walk together…they had the biggest smiles I have seen in a while, and a glow that you could not look past.

Who knows if any of these thoughts that came to my mind are true? …and I know my assumptions about them may be ignorant. But I do know one thing. This couple made me realize that there is always something to smile about!

Let’s work on not getting caught up in the world! But let’s enrich life, and pay it forward! I’m sure there are many things going on in your life that can keep you down…but I bet there are many things happening that can keep you up. You have to be high when your low! I know the world is ugly, but it’s also beautiful! What are you doing to enhance that beauty?

We all have a role and a special purpose. Whatever you do…don’t forget to smile!


‘the happiest people don’t have the best of everything…they make the best of everything’
OneLove.

More than a human being…

We are all placed on this earth for a reason. We all have purpose. We all have meaning. We all enrich life. We all are eternal.

But there is one thing that all of us have, that is different than the next person. It’s something that is hard for me to explain. You know…have you ever been around certain people, and they like give off this vibe. Like you can just feel all kinds of energy around them! It’s a great feeling right? You like being around them?

I think every person has energy like this. Every person has the ability to be more than just a human being… If you are truly seeking to live life to the fullest, you should want to be more than just a human being. You should want to give off this energy that others want to be around. Your energy can be warmth, compassion, energetic, love, funny, comfort and many others! We all need to find out what our energy is and tap into it…

After you know what your energy is, it’s not something you work on…it’s something that is natural. It is given off to others around you without you even knowing. There is great energy to be used in this universe!

To my people being more than human!

OneLove.

I LOVE MONDAYS!!!!!!!!!

Too many times on Mondays, either if you are at work, school, the gym, or in your own house…you hear people say “It’s Monday (sigh).” Or you hear, “It’s just another Monday, you know how those are!!”

NO, I DON’T KNOW HOW THOSE ARE!!! Life is a gift that God has given me today; this is the best gift that any person can receive. With that on the table, I am on a daily strive of living life to the fullest with no regrets.

Anything that you want to do in this life, you have to do it with hard work and dedication. I have learned by changing my major four times in college that you have to find that “something” that you can apply to your heart and soul. Once you find something that you love to do, no one can stop you from doing it. Since I am blessed to have the opportunity to work with kids on a daily basis, I love Mondays because I see that as another day to change someone’s life. I love Monday’s because this is another day that somebody didn’t get to see. I love Mondays because it’s another day I get to grow as a person and work on being eternal.

Why do you love Mondays?

OneLove.

Forget the Stock Market!!!!!!!!!!!

When you hear the word investment, you think about a lot of time, effort and energy going into something; so that you can receive something in return. For the most part, people use investments with money…as if there is no other way to invest. We also invest in things that we could really care less about…we are just looking/waiting on what the possible outcome could be.

For me, I try to look at investment in a different light. I try to look at it as who may my investment help…instead of looking at what I can get in return. When you are looking to help others and the universe with your investment, it will be a lot meaningful; and I’m sure the people you help will pay it forward. Investment aren’t, and should not only be money. You need to be present in your investment. I’m positive your time is way more valuable than money. Investment is a great power that we need to use to mold this universe.

Don’t invest looking at only what you are going to get in return…

Forget the Stock Market…invest into your family, friends and loved ones!

One Love.

The Beauty In True Friendships…

A letter from my boy Bobby Ingram…


DAVID ORTIZ -Man we have been on the same team damn near all of our life even when we sucked in ball but you are right i can always depend on you to get me that assist to make that game winning shot and i know i can depend on you to assist in life on and off the court your really someone i call a true friend and a brother i know you would never turn your back on me in my tough situations whether in life or a basketball game .I DO HAVE A BIG STEP IM TAKING IN TO FATHERHOOD i know you will be there to assist me ..

DRE WAGNER- I've only known you 2 years and for some people i cant say i truly look up 2 them but even though your shorter i really do look up 2 you in those camp summers you have taught me What a man is What a man was and wHat a man of character looks like (M.O.C)..that's YOU and i thank you for that !!! so this is to MY ASSIST MEN ..DRE and DAVID

From me..
Bobby, man bro I swear time flies by so fast. I still remember when we first met at camp…getting it in on the court! Those memories from the summer are memories that I will have for a lifetime. Man we cried together, laughed together, hooped together, got blacker together lol… As you take this new step in your life, I dare you to do it at your best! I dare you to give it all you got! This world needs strong brothas like you, and you should refuse to not let that shine! I know you will be a great father to your son…pass on to him all that you know. Even though your in NY and I’m in Iowa you know I’m only a call, txt, facebook message or tweet away!!!! LOL… *technology is crazy*

David !o!...man we clicked since day one too. There are some people that we meet in this world and feel like you have know each other for a while…that’s how it was. I knew we were going to be coo when you thought that you was nice on the court!! Lol. You have something about you that just attracts people to you…they want to be part of your life. Share that with the universe…

Friendship are relationships that no one should overlook or take for granted…true friends don’t come around often…but when you have one, you will know!

Much Love to both of my brothas!

..I challenge all of you to take the time out and let your true friends know how you feel about them!


One Love.

So a while ago, I got an email from somebody asking me about my blog and some of the things that I write, here it is...

“So I was reading some of your blog's posts, and I just had two questions. What exactly is it that you want from life? And, what do you mean by you, "dream big"?”

I was shocked to get this email. I guess I just wasn’t expecting someone to email me about my blog. Then I started to think. This person is destined for greatness! They want greatness in their life, and are seeking out other people that want to achieve greatness as well. It makes perfect sense. Well, I went on to reply, saying…

Question 1; What exactly is it that you want from life?
I just want to be able to achieve all things that I never saw myself being able to do. This may be to overcome my own self doubt as well as the doubt that others have in me. Like growing up, the only thing I saw in my future was basketball. Basketball was that one thing that I was good at, and the reason why I interested people…but I want more than just that. Growing and wanting to reach my full potential, I now want to write a book, I want to give back in every way, shape and form, I want to help my family and friends, and most importantly I want to help youth realize that they can do anything if you set your mind to it.

Question 2: What do you mean by you "dream big"?
Dream big means DREAM BIG!! Like sometimes we dream, and we start to take things out of that dream. Why not leave everything in the dream and see how far you can go. I feel like the biggest obstacle to overcome is in our head (our own doubt), and after we get over that, nothing can stop us.

The person then went and replied to me saying…
Yeah, apparently we are bound by speech, you know, as in we say "I can't do this...I can't do that..." So, if you believe you can't do this or that then you can't because that's what you set your limits to. There wasn't really a reason besides pure curiosity. I just like learning what drives determined people.

Why aren’t more people curious these days? When we see people where we want to be…why don’t we ask them how they go there? Doesn’t it make sense?

What are you doing to get to where you want to be?

One Love.

Power Of Happiness

I truly believe that there is a great power in happiness in this world. Happiness can bring you joy in this world that no one can even come close to stealing from you. Happiness is something that every person in this universe should be able to experience, because you find happiness from within…

When you truly think about happiness…there is no doubt about it that you have to think about freedom. Freedom of your mind… thoughts… expression… actions.

‘Loose as a goose…free as can be..’

To my basketball teammates…you have heard this before. It wasn’t until as of recent I truly understood the meaning of this

When I was a youngster, I made a lot of decisions based on my friends, family, what people thought was cool.

Now as I grow older and wiser, I understand that all decisions should be made to better this universe and to keep happiness and freedom within one’s self. If I lay my head down at night unhappy, I have no one else to blame but myself.

As you travel through this beautiful life, seek freedom! Be happy…

“Freedom discovers man the moment he loses concern over what impression he is making or about to make” -Ruslan Karablin

One Love.

Life is beautiful…

To be honest I don’t even know where to start, I might be venting right now, so bare with me…

I feel like for the past week or so, I have not been giving life my all! Like I just been going through the motions. I think it’s very easy for us as humans to get caught up in routines and not actually pay attention to what we are doing. A lot of this is directed to my school work. I have finished the social work program at my school and now I’m trying to finish up some gen. eds in this last year and I’m not even going to lie, they suck! Lol. I’m taking classes that I have no interest in at all.. O well, that’s just how it goes sometimes. Balancing school and a full time job is a lot different from balancing school and basketball.. I think that has been my biggest adjustment this year…it’s a lot harder than I thought it would be. When I was playing basketball, it was easier for me to find time to study and get my work done because I could study during travel time… I can’t study at my job!!

So let me tell you about my job anyway.. I freakn’ love it!! I work at a company called Faith, Hope and Charity. It’s a home for kids with special needs. If you know me, you know I love working with kids… But I have never seen myself working with this population. I swear everyday these kids keep me sane… They live life and enjoy it to the fullest! They don’t have a care in the world…all they want to do is be happy. I swear that’s a great outlook on life!! Since I started working this job, these kids have made me learn so much about myself..I only been there for about 3 weeks now and they have already impacted me for a lifetime.

The point that I am trying to get out to you are, don’t go through the motions…but live life as if every moment may be your last moment.

And when it’s time for you to start your career, do something that you love. It will make the universe a better place!

Peace & Love to all the warriors out there!

"Protect Your Pocket"

3rd Blog Feature (Sheesh)! This time PureButtons shows love to the Nerdy Team. Check them out!
http://www.purebuttons.com/thebuttonpost/advertising-buttons/nerdy-shows-off-purebuttons/

Check out their Blog! http://www.be-nerdy.com/

Change your Cool!!

Nas breaks down his open letter. This is a must watch...God's Son Nas speaks knowledge!

Nas Speaks Again!!

*UPDATE*
Your fight should to be about becoming bigger and better. To have your own businesses. Real businesses Not Hustles. To have careers not jobs. Not selling mixtapes. You have the resources to do anything you want. There's no excuses. We have no one to blame but ourselves.. We have so much great work to do!!!

-Nas




Just to make you scratch your scalp a lil more... check out what someone has to say about Nas speaking out

NAS I FEEL U I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE WITH EVERYTHING U SAYING. BUT WHEN RAPPERS GET ON TV AND TALK ABOUT THE STRUGGLES IN THE HOOD THATS ALL THEY DO. HONESTLY THAT SCRIPT IS PLAYED OUT. DONT MISINTERPRET THIS AS ME SAYN UR DOING SOMETHING WRONG BY SPEAKING OUT TO THE YOUTH, IM JUST SAYING TAKE THE NEXT STEP. IM A "YOUNG WARRIOR". AND IM FROM CHICAGO, CABRINI GREEN PROJECTS TO BE EXACT. MY FATHER JUST GOT SIXTY YEARS FOR 1ST DEGREE MURDER. BUT ME IM IN COLLEGE, IN MY FIRST YEAR AT SIU. IVE BEEN THREW THE STRUGGLE. IVE DID SOME THINGS IN MY LIFE THAT IM NOT PROUD OF BUT NOW IM TRYING TO BETTER MYSELF. IM NOT GOING INTO THIS WAR BLIND EITHER. I HAVE A VISION I JUST NEED AN ARM TO HELP PULL ME OUT THE STRUGGLE. IF U TRULY FEEL LIKE U SAY U DO THEN REACH NAS!!!! HELP A YOUNG WARRIOR BECOME A GENERAL. WELL SEE HOW MUCH U REALLY CARE ABOUT US!!!!!!!! P.S. LOVE

Be Full-Time!

Hello Beautiful People!! I hope all is doing welll…

So as most of you know…during the past summer I was working at a camp in NY. During the summer I kept a journal.. this would help me keep all of the great memories close to my heart. Well, here is what I wrote July 12th, 2009.

So a couple of days ago I got to spend the night with my boys, the senior boys here at camp. This would be the first group of kids I had my first summer here at camp in 2008. I was setting in the tent with them one night just talking about life. One of my boys has always called me father, he even did so last summer. I always noticed it but never thought about it too deeply. This night he told me the reason that he calls me “father”. He says, “Dre, I call you father because I don’t have a positive father figure to look up to!” He went on and continued to tell me about the situations that he has to see and deal with on a daily basis. We were in this dark tent at night so he had no idea about the tears that were just rolling down my face. Everything that he was saying touched me so deeply.

I try my best to appreciate all that God and the universe has blessed me with in my life; but sometimes it takes stories like his to put life into perspective.

I had no idea that he was looking at me in such a way that he did, nor did I know his story to the full extent that he explained.

Being a Man of Character forces me to be the best man that I can be when others are not looking, watching or paying any attention. That’s what character is all about. If you are living a LIFEstyle of what you want your character to be seen as…no matter who is watching, when they see you, or what they hear.. it will always have something positive in it, because you are being the best YOU!.

Knowing that you are being watched at all times… are you proud of what others see in you?

“There are eyes and ears everywhere; and if not, the universe see’s you… we have to manifest into full-time”

Nas Speaks!

I hardly ever re-post anything from other blogs but this is a must read!

Nas speaks out to youth about the 16 year-old honor student that was beaten and killed.. Not only the youth, but everyone should really take heed to this message:

Dear Young Warriors fighting the wrong wars! Killing each other is definitely played out. Being hurt from the loss of a love one was never cool.

Dear Young Warriors fighting the wrong war! I know that feeling, that frustration with life and needing to take it out on someone, anyone. But…

We chose the dumbest things to go the hardest for. I remember seeing deaths over 8 ball jackets, fila’s, and name plate chains. Deaths over “he say she say”!!!!! “I’m from This block or I’m from that block,” or “my moms n pops is f*cked up now the whole world gotta pay!!!”

I remember feeling like I was the hardest “n*gga” breathin. And I couldn’t wait to prove it. 
But let’s think. What r we really proving?? And proving what to who?? Everybody knows Chicago breeds the strongest of the strong but I just feel, me, being ya brother from another state, feel your pain as if I grew up with you in ya very own household.

You have the ability and mindpower to change the way we are looked at. Look who’s watching us young warriors, look who’s throwin us in jail constantly, look at the ignorance in the world. Look at the racist dogs who love to see us down. Lovin to bury us in the ground or in jail where we continue this worthless war on one another. Young warriors…. We are WASTING more and more time. We gotta get on our jobs and take over the world. Cuz this movie left the theaters years ago, Juice, Menace, Boys n the Hood, Blood n Blood Out, Belly!

When we see each other why do we see hatred? Why were we born in a storm, born soldiers, WARRIORS….and instead of building each other up we are at war with each other.. May the soul of this young person find peace with the Almighty. I’m with you young warriors. You’re me and I’m you. But trust me! You are fighting the wrong war.This sh*t sucks !!

-Nas

From: http://bossip.com/159362/nas-message-to-the-youth-regarding-chicago-teen-beaten-and-killed/

(RP) Do The Right Thing

A young man and his father were on vacation. On the first night, the young man went out to the rental car to grab the rest of his luggage. There was a woman that walked up to him and said “Do you have any money to spare, my car ran out of gas and I don’t have any money on me.” The young man though about the five dollars that he had in his pocket, but wanted to use it for some snacks for his hotel room. After thinking about it, he said “No, I’m sorry I don’t.” After he walked upstairs to his room, the key card was not working so he went to the front desk to get it activated. He saw that lady again leaving the front desk and walking out of the hotel. He thought to himself again, is this five dollars really going to kill me. He ran after the lady and gave her the five dollars that he had.

After he walked away, he had this great smile on his face. He had this sweet feeling inside, it was a great feeling because he made a sacrifice to do what he knew was right.

There are many times when God and the universe give us opportunities to make this world a better place. There are even more times when people look at these opportunities and turn their head.

There is a great power of good in this world, greater than anyone will ever know. This power can change your life or someone else life at anytime you want it to…you just have to make the sacrifice. Will you do the right thing when your opportunity comes?

It’s Your World –Part 5

“Be....eternal!” -It's Your World. Common (Feat. Bilal & Pops)

Wow! This is the most powerful statement in the whole song…be eternal. Eternal…as in lasting all the time without a beginning or end. Unchanging and unaffected by the passage of time. Going on forever or recur incessantly..

I don’t even have much to say about this…

Will you continue to live after you are gone?

It’s Your World Part 4

“Be at full strength when walking through the valley” -It's Your World. Common (Feat. Bilal & Pops)

Strength is something that is definitely needed walking through this life. We will need to gain strength in every way possible… With that being said, there are times that we will need a break, times that we will get weak and at times we will fall. It’s during these moments that we will see gains in our strength. We have to have a never ending passion for getting stronger.. for it is when we are strong when we can help others.. and that’s what it’s all about.

The universe is also described as a valley. A valley is a low area of land and is often surrounded by higher ground. For most of us…we start out in this valley. Starting off in this valley is a beautiful thing because we understand the struggle to get to the top…

To my beautiful people who are full of strength! Keep pushing…
One Love!

It’s Your World –Part 3

“Be a brilliant soul, sparkling in the galaxy while walking on earth” -It's Your World (Feat. Bilal & Pops)

If you have ever really noticed sparkles or glitter, they are visible but low key at the same time. When walking this earth, I have the thought of an earth angle in mind. Visible, but low key at the same time. See angles do their thing, but then keeps it moving. They don’t act the way they do because they want fame, thanks or recognition. They do it because they want the universe to be a better place. That’s how I try to live my life…try to put a smile on others face. Not judging because I don’t know what the next man is going through. Lending a hand when no one is watching. Doing community service to give back…

I’m a human so I do fail, but when you surround yourself with others with similar goals…it makes the journey that much easier. Let’s sparkle in the galaxy while walking the earth!

To all my Earth Angles! One Love..

It’s Your World! –Part 2

“Be-nign, be you, be mom's mean pie, be little black sambo with bad hair.” -It's Your World. Common (Feat. Bilal & Pops)

The beginning of this line is self explanatory, but I want to focus on “be little black sambo with bad hair”.

If you don’t know, the story of Little Black Sambo is an old children’s book. In this story, Sambo survives over a large group of very hungry tigers. Sambo had some brand new colorful clothing on and he had to give his clothes, shoes, and umbrella to four tigers so they won’t eat him. The tigers were so jealous and conceited and began to chase each other. While they were doing that, Little Black Sambo recovers all of his belongings.

We will face many challenges in life, but with these challenges; there is always a way to prevail. And not only prevail, but do it with class and dignity. The universe works in a way that, if we do good and mean good…good will have to come back to you. And that’s exactly what happened to Little Black Sambo.

To my people who are doing good, just watch and see the universe do you good!

It's Your World! -part 1

It’s Your World! (Part 1)

If you are not a fan of Common, I highly recommend that you become one. He is one of the most talented artists coming from a humanistic, love everyone point of view. His lyrics are inspiring and inspirational. He has a song on one of his earlier CD’s called “It’s your world”. This has got to be one of the best songs ever! There is a spoken word at the end of this song that I want to talk about for a couple days. I want to break it down and talk about my interpretation of it… This will be the “It’s Your World Series.”

“Be gleeful everyday, for being the best swimmer among 500,000.” - It's Your World (Feat. Bilal & Pops)

Every day that the good Lord blesses us with, we should be thankful, joyful and live that day like it’s your last. Gleeful is a powerful word because it means that we are full of jubilance; meaning great success, way far over the moon and triumphant. The last part of this line talks about being the best of the best. Being the best does not mean that you need to surpass others. Being the best can be trying things you never seen yourself doing. Being the best, can be you being in school. Being the best, can be you helping others. Being the best, can be you doing what you love. Being the best, can be YOU…being the best YOU!

Think about it…

In the perfect world, life would run effortlessly and smooth. But if it was like that…what would we gain?

At times we go through periods when everything seems as if its running in a downward spiral…it may seem as if nothing is going right. During these times we must work our hardest..we can’t give up now. For what you gain from this experience you will use in the next. Life is a long journey… Keep your Fait and Ambition.

Ambition is not what a person does…it’s what a person would do!

Dreams, goals and aspirations will not be met without putting in the time. We want so much out of life but put so little in. Does that even make sense?... Today you can start with less talk and more work…and more work means more time.

You will meet your dreams on time, if you apply your time!

(RP) Saturation.

I was looking at something that wrote a while ago and wanted to Re-Post it(RP)… so here it is..

Sometimes I feel that simple words are overlooked…take saturate for example. This simple word means to soak, drench, flood or oversupply. That’s simple enough right?!?! I found this scripture that we can apply this simple word to…

“Keep thy heart with an all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” -- Proverbs 4:23


What this basically is saying is that, if we store up good things in our hearts, our words and actions will be good. I truly believe that whatever is built up in your heart, your mouth speaks. This word saturation comes in to play because you need to saturate your mind on whatever you want to be in your heart. The old saying, “You are what you think,” is true! You will take on the characteristics and be identified of whatever occupies the majority of your thoughts. Saturate your mind with righteousness and peace..and you will live this out. Saturate your mind with evil and hate, and you will act and think in such a way that is not divine for your purpose. Saturation is a force that will determine your destiny!!!

Enhancement of Character

No one should ever fill powerful when other are powerless.
When others are immobilized they are stagnant to growth at any velocity.
But power is when inhabitants exert greatness with the influence of your presence when you are not in sight.
And then that power is surpassed by the next because…
What you keep to self is lost.
But when others take it further than your expectation of vista; that is when you achieve…

LIFEstyle?

Rules should not be, and are not a surrogate of your character..

As a mortal in this universe, can we actually know each other’s character? I mean, being a Man of Character(MOC) is something that I stand by. But do people actually know my character, or do they know my reputation.. or do they know my LIFEstyle?

The more and more that I think about it, you can’t live by rules…you have to live a LIFEstyle. If you want to live your life a certain way, you can’t think about as of the things that you can’t do… but you have to think about it as the things that you should do, the things that you want to do, and then it will eventually become you…

become your LIFEstyle

Peace and Love<>Daps & Pounds

"Do You!”

So a while ago I was sitting in a social justice session with some high school kids. In the session they were discussing identity, perspectives, and the people who perceive these perspectives.

One of the young ladies then went ahead and started talking about how our language and the way we act are different around different people. She then expressed how sometimes she is on her “white girl status”. Now if you know me, this was an immediate red flag. I then proceeded to ask her, what is the “white girl status” (already having a idea of what she was going to say, I just wanted her to hear herself say it out loud). She then explained that it is when she is acting and talking proper. That statement was said out of pure ignorance. Has society had such a impact on our youth, that when someone is acting and or speaking proper, then they are referred to as a “white person?” SMH. Speaking like this just sets you up for failure…

I want to challenge you, as I did her…If you feel as if you are educated, then speak with intellect. That’s “Doing you!” Don’t compare it with anyone else! Define it as you. Don’t let the society form who you are…and don’t let the society tell you what, and what not to do. This is your world, you will get out what you put in. Say yes to being you!

There is a time and place for everything in this universe that we live in, that does not mean you change who you are!

Peace and Love<>Daps & Pounds
Mr. Big Dreams

Everyday A Star Is Born! ..you chillin?

YO!! Wale, I love the song, but now is not the time for me to be Chillin’. Nope it’s not. Everyday a star is born. It’s the title of a track on the new Jay-Z Blue Print 3 album. How true is that statement?!

Everyday somebody is working had to be that next Doctor, Artist, Musician, Ball-Player, Lawyer, Athletic Trainer, Motivational Speaker, Photographer and any and everything else you can think of. Especially in the time that we live in now.. I mean Obama just gave a speech to all the kids in the US, the economy is not great, people are struggling on a daily basis.. It only makes sense that mortals are trying to reach greatness.. The universe is never content with the status quo. And the common people are not continent with being ordinary..(well I know I’m not at least).

Today somebody’s dreams just became their reality! Just imagine that…your dreams becoming reality…

That happened to somebody today. But you know what; it didn’t just fall in their lap, or maybe it did. Yes I’m convinced that it’s more about who you know than what you know…and your situation vs. their situation…and their family support to you not having a family…from their great education to your teachers not caring…and from there immense amount of luck to you not catching a break.. and along with that, their eight plus hours of sleep to your five hours of rest.. I know and heard a lot of it…

But when your dreams become reality…wont it make it that much SWEETER!!

Peace and Blessings<>Daps & Pounds
Mr.Big Dreams..

Back Like Brett Favre!

Yo it’s me!! I’m back at it like Brett Favre LOL. If you have been wondering, I have been GREAT! I had a great summer. I was back in NY working at a youth residential camp. I had a different position from last summer as I was an Assistant Community Coordinator. This summer I continued to learn more about myself, as I was challenged in many different ways. Of course the kids had a great impact on me as I hope I did on them. ..Oh yeah, I lost the no shaving bet over the summer. Des! I got your dinner bruh..stop crying lol ..you always busy (cough, cough)

WOW! I can’t believe this is my last year of undergrad...and who would have ever thought I would be applying to Graduate School. Man life is crazy…

If you are new at my spot, this is not going to be your typical blog site. I’m not going to sit here and talk about celebrities, music and fashion. Well I take that back, the only fashion I will talk about is the Nerdy Brand. A couple of the homies are starting a brand and they have my support 100%. Make sure you check them out at http://www.be-nerdy.com/. But other than them, there are many other blogs and sites that you can get all that other information from. The focus of my blog is for personal growth, learning how to be intellectually greedy, quotes to get you thinking, and most of all, giving you the confidence and self-belief that you can reach any of the dream you work for. Like Big Sean says, you’re not going to reach your dreams by drinking Nyquil and being in pajamas.. But it’s going to take hard work, determination, some sleepless nights and definitely FAITH and COURAGE! I’m speaking to you still in search of my dreams…and I dream BIG! But I know I will get there, and I know you can too. So check back with me often and get some encouragement, motivation or for a study break! Leave comments…negative or positive, you might not know who you will touch…

The last thing I’m going to leave you with today is…

“What you keep to yourself you lose, what you give away, you will keep forever” – Axel Martin

Cast Away!

So I will be pretty busy until I’m off camping in NY for the summer. I’m in my last week of my internship and my last class for the semester is on Friday. I will graduate from the Social Work Program on Friday, and then I will graduate from the University next May. I’m going out to NY next week for a Men’s Conference. I will be helping out at home since my parents are moving out of our house, and I also have to get a U-Haul and move to my apartment that I will have in August.
It has definitely been a great school year, had a good final basketball season and now it’s about that time to focus on me and start planning my life after graduation next May. I will not be blogging throughout the summer as I will not have the internet when camping nor will I have phone service. I am also going to deactivate my facebook account within the next couple of days, not shaving and no sunscreen all summer as I will be going straight Cast Away style! Initially, you may see this as horrible, but in all actuality it’s a great thing. I’m out in the woods experiencing nature at its best, reflecting on my life, working with kids and not having a worry in the world. Mad dope!

I’m sure I will be back with you in August. Until then, stay blessed.

Keep Thinking Above the Naturally Know and make it a part of your LIFEstyle!!

I just came back from working with some kids in middle school. Today we were talking about being yourself and not being a follower. A lot of time youth just want to fit in and not really do what they want…they just want to be seen as cool. I had to tell them, people are like that at all ages. It’s much easier to be a follower than to be a leader. I think people are scared of stepping out and being a leader. When you are a leader you have to take responsibility for your actions, decisions and statements that you make. When you follow you don’t have to take responsibilities for these things. Thurgood Marshall said…”It takes no courage to get in the back of a crowd and throw a rock.”

Let’s make leadership a LiFEstyle!

The more and more I think about it, the more I want to live a simple life. The last thing I want to do in this life is be a product of the world. Of course I like nice things…who doesn’t. It’s when those nice things start to run your life, then you need to take a step back and reconsider what’s really important.

America has abandoned the strong woman of spirituality and is shacking up with the harlot of materialism. –Joseph Lowery

To my brothers and sister…let’s not be a product of the world!

So things are about to get real busy for me. I’m in my last two weeks of school for the rest of the semester. First I need to finish my research paper which is most important. I have a lot of packing and moving to do. I will be in New York for a couple days for a men’s conference at the end of the month. I plan on attending one of my boy’s weddings and the 15th of June I will be back at Camp for the summer.

I’ll do my best to keep you updated!

Can't believe the Lakers lost last night. Now it's time to quit playing and just win the rest of the games of the series.

Fist Up

Here is the spoken word that I speak in the video.


More pigmentation equal less expectation.
That’s how they shaped our mind…looking down the barrel of our own brothers nine.

Got to help my people, stop looking through that peep hole.
They scared of our capabilities…that shows how little we know.
But I’m down for the struggle, I won’t quit until we know.

See you have to saturate the brain with A’s, like a fitted New Era.

Then master what you love, get that green and always be above par like Tiger.
Then go back and give back…help the youngins get higher.

And higher…by yourself, and don’t look back.
From nothing to something…I’m the one they should admire.

-Shaking My Head-

I hate to admit it...But I am going to Chicago today. I can't believe they beat Boston...what is the world coming too! But all I have to say is go Lakers!!! Nothing will get in front of M.V.P Kobe.

To my bro Des Wuse...do yo thing at Schlors Day! Proud of you man!! Don't think you about to sleep on this trip....Viagra son! lol

To my bro Foxx...I'm a try to get on here this weekend so you not bored on yo last hour at work! lol.

"When it comes to food for thought, some of us are on a hungry strike." - Dick Gregory

What will you feed your mind with today?

Cheaper and Healthy

So I just got to work and was quickly humbled, and thankful for the things that I have in my life. It is so simple to take things for granted every day. Yesterday I was mad about the fact that I had to get my car fix. But in all actuality, I should of just been grateful for the opportunity to even get my car fixed because there are millions of people in this world that don’t even have a car.

I walked to work this morning and I think it was very much needed. I love fitness so the walk did not bother me at all. Is just that I think sometimes we as people get caught up in all the craziness that goes on in our lives, and fail to realize the things that we should be thankful for.

I’m going to challenge you to think about a couple things that you are thankful for today; I promise it won’t take up a lot of time. If it’s your parents or friends…tell them that you are happy to have them in your life. If it’s your car…walk somewhere today that you would normally drive. If it’s your job…tell your boss that you are grateful for the position that you have, especially for the simple fact that we are in poor economic times.

To my people who are thankful!

Let’s make being thankful a part of our LIFEstyle!

Great Server

What am I giving this Life, if Life is what God gave me.
So that makes it a given, Life is all about giving.

But see Life test you to see what happens when you get no thanks.
Are you giving from your heart…or is it an act like LIFE. Because it wasn’t fair to Martin and Eddie.

The secrete to giving in Life…is to give in secrete.
Life will repay you in the end.
Karma is no secrete.

Got Curiosity?

So last week I got an email from a young lady, she so kindly asked…

“So I was reading some of your blog's posts, and I just had two questions. What exactly is it that you want from life? And, what do you mean by you "dream big"?”

My first reaction was shock. I guess I just wasn’t expecting someone to email me and ask a couple of question. Then I started to think. This young lady is destined for greatness! She wants greatness in her life and she was just wondering how others try to achieve greatness as well. It makes perfect sense. Well, I went on to reply, saying…

Question 1; What exactly is it that you want from life?
I just want to do all things that I thought I would never be able to do. Like growing up, I thought I wanted to be a basketball star..and I kind of did that in college. But I want more than just that. I want to write a book, I want to give back in anyway shape or form, I want to help my family and friends, and most importantly I want to help people realize that they can do anything if you set your mind to it.

Question 2: What do you mean by you "dream big"?
Dream big means DREAM BIG!! Like sometimes we dream and we take things out of our dream. Why not leave everything in the dream and see how far you can go. I feel like the biggest obstacle is in our head (our own doubt), and after we get over that, nothing can stop us.

She then went and replied to me saying…
Yeah, apparently we are bound by speech, you know, as in we say "I can't do this...I can't do that..." So, if you believe you can't do this or that then you can't because that's what you set your limits to. There wasn't really a reason besides pure curiosity. I just like learning what drives determined people.

Why aren’t more people curious these days? When we see people where we want to be…why don’t we ask them how they go there? Doesn’t it make perfect sense?

Well…to the lady that sent me this email to me, you inspired me to do a spoken word called “Dream BIG” After I finish it, I want it to be a part of my motivational speaking that I plan to do. You will be the first person that I show it to.

To all my readers… What are you doing to get to where you want to be?

T*A*N*K’in and make it a LIFEstyle!

No Breaks In Life!

Being successful is what drives a lot of people. But a lot of people have different views or meanings of success. Being successful may be being wealthy to someone and to another graduating from high school. Being successful many depend on how much they are able to give back and to another how much they are able to gain. Either way it goes, reaching great success is not easy.

Just imagine it’s a beautiful summer day and the sun is beaming down on you. You are with a bunch of people taking a walk to stay fit and to enjoying the day. What will most people do during this walk? Yup…that’s it, your right!! They look for a tree and sit in the shade for a while. Or they will look for a bench to rest at. So half of the group takes a rest and sets in the shade and the other half keeps going.

We all know that breaks are sometimes needed, but do we understand what is happening when we are taking these breaks. There is someone else that is so driven, that they are not going to take a break. They are going to keep going even though the sun is beaming down on them. While they are doing this, they are gaining mental toughness, gaining an understanding of what happens when you take a break, and eventually will be too far ahead of you to catch up.

Whatever your goal is…are you doing everything that you can do to reach it? Can you keep going when you are taking a break? Those are questions only you can answer. Just know…as you sit in the shade and on that bench, someone is so determined, hungry, and driven that they are not stopping until they get what their prize is.

Keep pushing and let’s Think Above the Naturally Known!

Great Weekend!

So I have a beautiful blessed weekend! I got to meet a couple of my friend’s parents this weekend, I had a basketball banquet, got a couple awards and I got to see my parents as well!

One thing that I noticed over the weekend and after my basketball banquet is that I have done a lot of growing over my last four years of college. I mean a lot… From academics, spiritual maturity and personal growth. One of my biggest fears is that I won’t reach my maximum potential. I feel that God has great things planned for me in my life but it is up for me to put the work in and grab them. So today I took the time out to actually think about situations and events that happened in my life that forced my maturation process.

Augmentation is a consistent aspect of our lives…what are you doing to increase yourself?

Last note real quick. I’m not going to say who sent this to me but I got this in my mailbox the other day. It said.

“A Shining Star! To Mr. Wagner, This is just a little bit of encouragement and twinkle of cheer. To let you know how much you’ve grown while you’ve been here. Gonna miss ya!”

I’m going to miss you too!

I just want to challenge you…yes you reading this. Lets grow together! Until next time…

LIFEstyle T*A*N*K’in

Have a great weekend!

Can’t believe the Lakers lost last night…they will come back hard, don’t worry about that. I have my basketball banquet on Sunday, can’t wait to see my parents.

The school year is coming to a end! All my educated folks out there…FINISH STRONG! Everybody have a great weekend..come back Monday! ..Stay Blessed!!!

That’s another hit…Barry Bonds!

So I starting blogging again on the 8th of April and we got to thousand hits today. I say we because it’s all of you that keep coming back and showing me love. I know it may not seem like much but I think that pretty good for only really promoting my blog through facebook and word of mouth. I love blogging because it makes me think different throughout my day. I’m always worried about not having something to write about so it forces me to look and think differently.

I feel that my blog is unique because I’m not just posting stuff that you can find on everyone else blog. When you hit up drewagner.blogspot you know that you will be getting something original, uplifting and a word that may possibly help you out in your day.

I just want to thank everybody for all support of my blog. It’s you all that keep me going. So go out, tell your friends to check out my blog, tell your mamma and daddy’s! lol… At the end of all your sentences…just say “drewagner.blogspot.com” aight?!? Thanks!! :)

That’s it for now… LIFEstyle’in (LIFE is what God gave us…style is what you make of it)

Belief Law

Designed for success…so I give it my best.
The mental turning into the physical.
Limitations self imposed…no limitations I exposed.
I’m a beast, turning defeat into belief, ...you gotta believe…

Why do I BLOG??

I WAS MAD NERVOUS!!!!

First I want to say that I'm a person that does not use profanity often, so when I used it in my writing that means I want a strong emphasis on it. Also, I feel like I was dry so I'm going to work on my delivery next time. Maybe try to memorize it..that may help

Lastly, when I was little I had a really bad stuttering problem. In class I would get in trouble because I wouldn't read out loud because kids would laugh at. Well, there is no better way to get better than practice. That’s why I read every day…every day!!!

Well, hope you enjoy...

Dream Chaser

So this was a crazy long weekend. From my birthday on Thursday, working with kids on Friday night…not going to sleep till 6am because I had EVERYTHING on my mind. Back up at 9am for work the next morning…Cultural session and Spoken Word today, and the Lakers WON!!! I’ll say it was a SupaDupa cool weekend. Now time to strap it up and get back at it for another week...

My T*A*N*K’in for today is Dreams. We hear so much about dreams and how we can achieve them, that I think we take it lightly or just think our dreams will remain dreams. I refuse to let my dreams and aspiration remain at just that. I have the keys in one hand; I got the obstacles in the other, and my dreams constantly on my mind.

Up early in the Am, Dreams I’m chasin’
Living a meaningful life I’m prayin’

Letting my pen bleed, this is how I get freed
My dreams keep me focused…that’s all I need.

Spoken Word

I will be doing spoken word tonight. Check back for the video!!!

23 On My Back

Twenty three years and I don’t want no cheer…got many goals to go, so I need more cheers.
Number four, man I miss those cheers…hopefully those tears will eventually disappear.
First love, shell always be there…no fears. Gotta make my parents proud, that and God is all I fear.

First class, gotta do all that I can do to fly,
Thanks Ye, you said I can touch the Sky…

Twenty-Four Seven

I dream big during the day, why sleep all night.
5:30am wakeup, another blessing. God, you must be alright.

Workout, then breakfast…I’m off to a good day
Intellectual thinking. Brain, academics…scholarly seeking.
Gotta be better than the next, the rest. Non stopping, never ceasing…Enhance my conscious.
What’s the message behind that…are you sending them astray?
If I ever do that…Lord take me away.

It’s always deeper than the surface, shallow…you only knee deep.
I’m doing everything I can do to be remembered after I’m seven feet.

How you think makes a difference...

So as I start off my day, I am thinking about how every situation has it’s and up downs. I think a lot of people in this world find it a lot easier to be pessimistic rather than optimistic. It’s easy to be pessimistic because there is no work involved with it; it’s not hard, problematic, or challenging. But on the other hand, being optimistic involves a sense of confidence…you know it’s going to take hard work, but you’re up for the challenge. All great achievers are optimistic about EVERYTHING!! No matter what it is. One way that I keep from putting myself in a pessimistic mind frame is that I always feel that the situation can always be worse. I know I’m destined for greatness…being optimistic is what I chose! Well…that’s all for now, let’s keep Thinking Above The Naturally Know.

Wise Man

You may recognize Sir Winston Churchill as one as the dominate leaders during World War II or because he won a Nobel Prize for his writing. Churchill states that “all men make mistakes, but only wise men learn from their mistakes.” All men make mistakes!! MAN…I can definitely testify to that. I think the way I do because of the mistakes I have mad. That’s what has shaped me into the man that I am today…or should I say the man I hope I am. This game of life is no joke; unlike my Nintendo…I can’t hit the reset button, lol. But there is one thing I have learned, you can’t be scared to make mistake. You can’t live this life as if you are walking on egg shells. I’m taking this thing head on with no helmet. Full speed…not stopping for anyone. God has a plan for me and I refuse to not to take it!!! …I’m learning to be a wise man

LIFEstyle T*A*N*K’in

Ego (Un-finished)

Existence created from above…dust we are
It seems as if I’m better than you…but we both at par
As I sit on this stool and look down at you,
I realize you should be next to me, cuz we both going through
But it won’t let me, I’m strong, I’m a man… Society
Driving home with the Henny in my hand, dawg…I’m losing my sobriety

Existence created from above…dust we are
Talib was right…I’m navigating through the truly bizarre
Pride is a killer…unless you hittin’ 3’s like Miller
Overtime…Michael Jackson thriller…I need a Miller
High Life…that’s what you see
At the end of the day…man you just like me.

Existence created from above…dust we are
We would all do better…
If we tried to live the life…as we say we are.

Mack Daddy Style!! *SMH*

So this morning I get woke up by a text message from MY DAD! ..my dad yo! Lol…This cat txt me and said..

“What are those gang signs you throwing up!”

I’m like what GANG signs..haha. He say “the signs you throwin’ up in the picture on your blog”..im like wow dad, those would be called peace signs. Get with the program!!! So what does he do..he sends me another txt and says

“I'm going to show you peace signs. I’m a show you my Mack Daddy style while looking smooth at the same time. Don’t have, celebrate!!”



Lol..Dad, I love you to death, and I know I'm blessed to even have a dad, but.......
you are really starting to look like Charles Barkley!!!! hahaha

Love you..send me some money!! I'm a poor college kid... :(



LIFEstyle T*A*N*K'in

Eagles Fly to One Day Die

This is from my bro Des, my mans is ill!!
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=65635742098

An unfinished product and also my first note. Hope you enjoy.

I pop the CD in, on my Napster duty anxious, awaiting to hear him spit.
“All I need is one mic 2x
Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, my biggest brother, we didn’t have the same mother, or maybe we did…but that’s another story.
Listening and not hearing, my ears actively receive
July 15, two-double-zeroes-ocho
Track 12 starts!
My eyes widened
Ears heightened as Eric Hudson
Nas
and the Last Poets present Project Roach!
Quote: “It is absolutely silly and unproductive to have a funeral for the word nigger when the actions continue. We need to have a movement to resurrect brothers and sisters, not a funeral for niggers, CUZ NIGGERS DON’T DIE!” (unquote)

Niggers don’t die? My Nigger Deucey was lost when he was hit with the 4-5!
My nigger Ant was running from the BDs, when Death decided to cover and cloak him, hopefully to the sky they went.

Track 12 continues.
(Quote)“Niggers are like Roaches, they’re never gonna go away.
Learn from them what we should not become, cuz niggers don’t die.” (Unquote)
Growing up, under the impression
that Niggers was the thing to be.
Big money, big cars, stupid hoes, tons of drinking, yet no presence of thinking.

Sitting on the Red Line wit my lil mentee, Malik.
Out the blue he says, “Man, big homie Des…Can’t wait til I get old.
I say, ‘why Malik?’
Malik: Cuz I’m gon be that nigger.
Little does lil Malik know of its bittersweet.
Nigger is a beautiful thang…stuck singing…
In all its beauty, sweetness is lost, mounds of decay plagues birthing the most expensive commodity to all people, IGNORANCE.

Niggers strut like peacocks
Big money, bigger cars, stupid hoes tons of drinking, yet no presence of thinking.
Like peacocks we strut our stuffStrut?
Wit our noses up, beyond stratus clouds
Peacocks strut, cuz they can’t fly.

Niggers got wings, but be stuck dreaming
I use to be a nigger, still got nigger ways
However, I’m beginning to think as an eagle….
Only 7 eagles. Extinction? Eagles get 1-8-7ed. Popped. Another shoulda, woulda, coulda. Another one of our dears brothers/sisters, lost and gone.
Niggers are scared to get shot. In a box…nonetheless
Uncertain if it’s forevermore

I’m starting to think as an eagle….

That’s all for now.

What is LIFEstyle T*A*N*K’in?

So my Blog is named LIFEstyle T*A*N*K’in and you probably want to know what it means or the meaning behind it. Wellllllll…,,,,,since you asked I guess I’ll tell you

You may define lifestyle as a way of life, existence, routine or a standard of living. Since I have to be different, I take LIFEstyle and break it up… Life if the beautiful thing that our creator gave us, without him we would not have this beautiful existence. Style is YOU!! Style can be anything that you make it. Style is art, creativity, your way of thinking..you get your style from the life that you live. God gave me life, style is what I make it!

Tank or T*A*N*K’in is a acronym that mean Thinking Above the Naturally Know. Thinking Above the Naturally is my daily struggle. I want to think in a way that no one else does, that’s part of the LIFEstyle that I want to live. Well…now you know.

Also, Andrew Bynum is back for the Lakers!! ..yall better get ready.

LIFEstyle T*A*N*K’in

Naneazy Mixtape..Sounds of the Delorean

Go support my homie Nana!!! ... finally got the tape out: Sounds of the Delorean, the Mixtape! Go Support -->http://www.zshare.net/download/584111510167bd29/




Check out his blog too!!
http://soundsofthedelorean.blogspot.com/


LIFEstyle T*A*N*K’in
Thinking Above The Naturally Known

Rocket Steady (Spoken Word #2)

My creator said that we are grateful people; but half of the people that look like me have given up. I’m telling you that the vision of the future is laden, with cautions and caveats. The ones that set back and blame, they just want commiseration and offerings. The system puts there lenses on…what do they see, poison...toxic waste? Nah, not me hommie, I’m too high…I’m on the steady…rocket steady....man on the moon, I’m outta space!

I’m T*A*N*K’in
Thinking Above the Naturally Known

Thanks Anonymous Person!!

So today when I got off work I went to go check my campus mail box. There was a card there that basically said have a fantabulous day and also wished me luck on all my future endeavors. There is no name on the card or anything…I just want to tell that person thanks because I needed that. This just goes to show that we have beautiful people around us every day and you never know when you are touching someone’s life.

Peace and Blessing!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)

I Want A Story To Tell (Spoken Word #1)

Say bro.. “WE” have been the subject of at least 400 books! But yet, you can’t help think about those other kids you know, because they were raised to think they are going to be successful and better than “US”. Is this a cultural quandary? Most successful men like “US” have a story to tell about what they have overcame, who influenced them and how they survived… I can’t wait to tell mine!

Peace and Blessing!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known

Im Back!!!

So I stopped posting on my blog for a while. I was going through a major change in my life, and I’m still trying to adjust to it. If you know me at all, you know that basketball was my way of life. Everything that I have ever done and planned always revolved around basketball. All that has now came to a STOP! Our season ended with a 23-3 record when we lost in the first round of the Conference Tournament. Who would have thought, that would have been my last official basketball game…

As I look back on my career I couldn’t have asked for more. I have won 2 conference championships, played in national tournament games, made it to the sweet 16, got nominated for the D3 player of the year award, been on the 2nd and 1st all conference team, been the team MVP, been the conference MVP, made all-west region 3rd and1st team, NABC all-district 1st team twice, and was a team captain. Now I am not trying to boast about any of these award…but I definitely gave it all I had and did it to my best ability. God has blessed me though my career with no serious injuries and memories that will last a life time…

So since basketball is over, I have picked up a couple new hobbies, the main one being weight lifting. I started working out every morning at 6am and taking Sundays off. I have also picked up racquetball and plan on learning golf when the weather gets nice. Yeah, I’m about to get my Tiger Woods on!! Other things that I’m focusing on are getting done with school. I have one more year left then plan on going to Grad school. I am still working my Internship mon-thur and also picked up another job at B&K Mercantile, it’s a men’s dress clothing store…

I will start posting spoken word on my Blog now. Spoken word is a form of art or artistic performance in which lyrics, poetry, or stories are spoken rather than sung. My bro Desmond inspired me to do this as he is doing the same on his facebook statuses. I am on a very busy schedule so they will be quick hitters to get you thinking intellectually…

Well that’s it for now…its good having you all back!!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

The End for Now…

This semester I only have one class, Senior Seminar on Fridays…little did I know I was going to have to do as much work as I have to. I have a huge research paper, journals, a presentation, facilitate one class for three hours and many reading assignments. All of this on top of a busy basketball schedule and my internship on Monday through Thursday. Basically what I am saying is that I just will not have the time to keep up on the blog like I want to. I was thinking I can continue to blog again after the season is over. I hoped you enjoyed my post and issues that I have discussed. Hope to have you all back again!!!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

Getting over this Bronchitis

Sorry that I have not been able to post any blogs. I have been trying to fight off this bronchitis for the past couple of days. I will be back posting on Monday. Have a great weekend!!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

Parents...Where Are You???

Sacrifice!!!

I have told you all before that I feel simple words are often times overlooked. The simple word sacrifice means to give up, let go or to forgo. Simple enough right?

When I hear the word sacrifice, the first image that pops up in my head is my mother and father. My parents have sacrificed so much for my little sister and I. Neither one of my parents has a college degree, we are not rich and sometimes they wonder how some bills are going to get paid. But there is one thing that my mother and father do on a consistent basis…and that’s make sacrifices for my sister and I.

My mom gave birth to me as soon as she got out of high school. My parents were determined to give me the world, in order to do that, they put their dreams aside to allow me to have dreams. To this day, my parents have never told me…but I know for a fact that they live their dreams through my sister and I. Now that I know that, everything that I do is done with passion and persistence.

When I began to manifest into a man is when I really realized the sacrifices they were making. Their sacrifice keeps this flame burning inside of me. This flame will not allow me to quit…

I am on a steady battle of reaching my full potential. I used to hate reading books, now I want to write one…I used to hate school, after undergrad I’m going to get my masters…I though organizations were stupid, last year I lead in creating one…I used to use curse words all the time, now I understand that’s a lack of vocabulary…I used to use the N-Word, then I realized my people were being handicapped by it.

Every negative thing that I used to do was because I had a lack of understanding about the sacrifice, the dreams and the much needed change in our culture and universe. If I ever feel like giving up on anything, all I need to do it think about the Sacrifice! Gotta’ love Momma and Pops!!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

(Community) Is Change Really Going To Come?

Here is a quick thought before I hit the road for a basketball game...

Every day that we wake up, we have the option to be peaceful or hateful…to do positive or negative…to help or to harm…to lead or to follow…to stay the same or change.
As our new president Barack Obama enters into presidency, one quote we hear on a consistent basis is “change is coming”. One thing that society needs to understand, we CAN NOT just sit back and think that Obama is going to do all the work alone. For change to happen in your community, it’s going to take help from all.

The society that we live in today has lost the concept of community. Back in day, even before my time, communities really were communities. People supported shops and thrifts in your community, every adult in the neighborhood and at church was your parent, there was unity, trust and love.

Now days, youth don’t understand the concept of respect. Instead of parents being in charge and head of the house, kids are coming and going as they please. Parents are not even parents of their own kids, let alone kids in the community. Neighbors don’t even know each other and there is no sense of love, unity or community.

As much as you want to see change..what are you doing to help?

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

A True Brother…

Desmond Harold Tutu Owusu…Happy Birthday Bro!!! We been friends for three years now kid…man time flies! I remember about 3 years ago when I met you at the CLC (Cultural Leadership Conference) here at school, little did I know you would have such an impact in my life.

As soon as you got on campus we automatically clicked. We went through a couple downs but a lot of ups. You really showed me how to be a true friend. When you have a true friend, you find yourself trying to be the best person you can be because you know they will keep you accountable for the things that you do. When you have a true friend, you know you can talk to them about anything and they will never judge you. When you have a true friend, you know you can count on them to have your back. When you have a true friend, you do things for them because you know they will do the same for you!

Three years ago, I would never express my feeling to another male because our society says as men we are not to show feelings and emotion. That’s why the society is messed up now. We need more brotha’s like you to be a positive male role model in this crazy world!

God places many people in our life…some just for a moment, some temporary and some for a lifetime. I know you’re my bro for a lifetime. I just want to thank you for being a true friend as we all know that’s hard to find now days. May God bless you with many more to come!! Love
you bro (no homo, lol)




Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

Where Is Your Energy Going!!!

So…I was sitting here on the computer finishing this program that I am going to implement with the kids that I am working with at work, but I can’t focus because my mind keeps wondering off. As some of you know, I worked at a youth camp last summer in NY. Working there for the summer was one of the best experiences that I have ever had. I took myself outside the box and was willing to do things that I never saw myself doing.

I camped outside for two months…slept in sleeping bags, went hiking, cooked over a man made fire, learned how to swim(a little bit), taught basketball and tennis, taught an educational club and got to meet a lot of great people. I got to experience these new adventures in my life while working with youth from the inner city.

Working at this camp last summer allowed me to sit back, evaluate my life and be thankful for all the blessings that I have. The camp site is so high in the hills and mountains that you have no cell phone service, the air is supper clean and at night the stars look close enough to grab. It made me re-evaluate and recognize what’s important in my life. Right now, I focus my energy to being the best man of God that I can be. I give energy to loving my family to the fullest. I give energy to being the best friend I can be, and I give energy to giving back, serving people and helping youth! When is the last time you re-evaluated your life…are you giving energy to things that are necessary?

..here are some pictures from the summer camp

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

2 Weeks Strong!!

Again, I want to thank you all the support that I am getting from my blog. I finished 2 weeks of it last week and got a lot of positive feedback. As you all know I am currently interning at the Juvenile Court System here in Storm Lake Iowa. This week I will not be posting any blogs because I will be working on finishing this program for the kids that I work with. The program will involve personal development such as self motivation, accountability, manifesting into a man/woman, reducing stress and anger, self reporting and common misconceptions of men/women.

Check back with me next!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

Make It A Day On…Not A Day Off

Thanks for all the continued support of my blog. This past week and upcoming week are going to be very busy for me as my basketball team as a lot of games coming up. I don’t know if I’m going to get to post as much as I may want to but come back and I will try to keep you all posted on how the games go.

Today is MLK Day! I challenge you to do some research and learn something new about Dr. King that you didn’t know before… Make this a day on, not a day off!!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

Our Work Is Never Over

Any journey that you start, either if it’s a thousand miles, or just twenty feet…it all starts with that first step. I hear so many people say they wish they had this, that, and everything in between…The thing that amazes me is most about these people, is most of them have not even taken the first step to getting what they want. I mean, they make it seem as if these desires that they have are just going to fall in their lap. Anything that is worth having in this world is not going to be handed to you, or be easy to obtain…somewhere down the road you are going to have to put in the work.

The approach that I take is to not have a great desire of money and material items… but to have a desire of success, and to have a desire of success; I have to have a BURNING DESIRE TO WORK! If I position my focus there, I know everything else will fall into place.

Matthew 9:37 says… “The harvests is plentiful, but the laborers are few”

As my boy Des and Kanye say…”Our work is never over!” Need I say more?…

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/

Who are you?

About a week ago I had an away basketball at this school called Cornell. After the game, on my way to the bus, I was talking to two young ladies on our girl’s team, and they proceeded to tell me that there were some people behind them that was talking about me and calling me the N-Word! One girl off our girl’s team turned around and said something to them, and the people calling me names threw water on her. To solve the solution, the ladies went to the Athletic Director of the school to let him know what happened. I just want to thank the ladies on the basketball team for standing up and saying something, it is greatly appreciated!

When I first heard this, I didn’t know how to fell…I needed to think about it for a little while. One feeling that I did have was that we just have some people in this world that are so ignorant, living in Storm Lake…I have seen a lot of ignorant people. I am a person that does not use the N-Word because it puts down the African American culture and all the people that fought for our freedom! But I wanted to look and think deeper about this situation…..

Before African Americans had the right to vote, we were called “nigger.” After African Americans started going to the pools to vote, we then were called “colored.” Then in the 40’s and 50’s when African American started moving north, we were called “Negroes.” Now today, the proper word is African American. Another example is that “wetbacks” became known as “illegal aliens” and then soon after that “undocumented workers.” Old people became “elderly” and then “senior citizens.” All of these are labels, and yet some people accept that to be their identity.

A lot of people have no idea who they are. There is an African American proverb that I feel is so true. It says “If you don’t know who you are, anyone can name you; and if anyone can name you, you will answer to anything.”

If you hear anyone name you, or give you a label…what will you say? I will say that I am a Man of Character, better yet…a child of God, and that I can do anything that I set my mind to!!!

Peace and Blessings!!!
Dre’s Think TANK (Thinking Above the Naturally Known)
http://drewagner.blogspot.com/