Sunday, July 30, 2006

Pics from Barcelona

Oh, camera was trippin, so some pictures may not load cause the cOe changes constantly. Will try to reup them .

Rolling out to airport for Barcelona.

Getting hemmed up at Customs.

Standing there on shores of Barcelona is the closest I have come to the continent of Africa.

Outside out Hostel.

The young lady from Serbia that opened up to us about her perceptions of race.

Alicia, reppin UT Knoxville Law and I

Hip Hop hotspot in Barcelona.

Tony Terrell enjoying a Kodak moment.

Tilt yo head!

At one of the main squares....tilt

Taming the lion.

Taming the lion with a little help.

Little man caught an octopus.

All of us getting a lil closer to Africa.

Indians performing.

Enjoying a meal.....

Don't ask, I was hungry....

Night two....so wack...

Friends from the Dominican Republic...

Da beach...

Exhausted from two days of kicking it. Time for the train to the airport.

Dudes Sure was Confused.

Bye Bye Spain....

Friday, July 28, 2006

Dispatch From London # 17

That last exam sucked. I guess the good thing is no one walked out talking smack, everyone one had puzzling looks on their face as the left the classroom. With that last funky exam, that would conclude the academic portion of trip. I have to give props to Southern University Law School for putting the program together. The two professors knew their stuff and never pulled rank on us when some of our heads bobbled while allegedly taking notes, trying to stay awake cause some of us were up till five in the morning hanging out. I wish the University of Memphis law school had Professors like R. Jones, but that is a another story.
Top Three Things I appreciate About London. 1. Multiculturalism - I have seen and met everybody under the sun. The locals originate from many other countries, so I have met people originally from Jamaica, South Africa, Ghana, Gabon, Nigeria, Ecuador, Haiti, Turkey, Germany and many other countries. I have gotten nothing but love from the locals once they realized I did not vote for Bush. (And yes, they will ask). But I appreciate the exposure to that type of culture. When you walk the streets here, or ride the bus, you come across so many people. For instance, unlike in the states where people stare and point they see a fully covered Muslim woman, here, there are no stares or whispers, people seem to be comfortable being around others who are different. The locals admit that there is racism in pockets of the city, but I never personally felt any. (Well there is the one time I was walking back to my room at about 11:00 p.m and I really was not paying attention as to who was walking ahead of me, so I unconsciously started signing aloud, (don't remember what song) but anyway, as the song started getting good, it caught the attention of the only other person on the sidewalk, a white lady who was about 20 feet ahead of me, she turned around, saw me, and then broke out running. For about a tenth of a second, I rationalized as to why she would break out running, I think I knew why, but maybe my singing was so bad, she had to get on down. So what did I do? I broke out running behind her. It's not my fault that it appeared to her that I was following her, she was going the same direction as me. My lil jog behind her, became a run fast and look back to see if he is still behind me for her. After two blocks some other people appeared on the sidewalk, she stopped running and stood near them, as I approached them, I looked at her, shook my head, and then said, you scared me so I ran too, I thought someone was behind us! Of course she could not say anything back. I kind of understood why she would run but I guess at the moment, I did not want to understand or give credence to why she took off. Anyway, point is, besides that quick moment of foolishness I have been treated really well here. The few times I got lost, people were very helpful. Now with all that said, there is a great dislike in certain areas for Americans. I think it is more about our politics than nationality or ethnicity. Some will frown upon you when they take notice of our lack of accent, but once we engage in conversation, they warm up to you. Like I have previously mentioned, hip hop is so universal, so for some, when they meet a black person from the U.S., its almost as if you become an ambassador of hip hop as they want to talk, and hear the lingo or some ebonics. One white guy in his early 20's, when he learned I was from Memphis, was like I love 3-6 Mafia. To prove he was not a bandwagon fan, he was like, I've been a fan way before the grammy's, and starts naming some of their older cuts. He asked me about places mentioned in the songs and was in awe when I could tell him about the areas and places and about my random encounters with members of the group. Overall, I have been enlightened culturally, and I think some have enjoyed my perspective on things as a black american, as for many, it was the first time they ever actually interacted with an African American. It was a learning experience for both sides.
2. Transportation System - It's either the Tube, Bus, Moped, Bike or Car. It is so easy to get around this place. I prefer the Tube, which is the London Underground train. It makes stops all over the area. Look at the map, when I first looked at it, I was like heck naw, I aint even about to navigate around here like this, I will end up in Russia. But it is not that bad, http://www.oxfordtube.com/assets/london/underground_map.jpg It's very convenient, in most cases you can get across town in 20 minutes or less. You can buy an all day ticket, that allows you to jump on and off all day for like five bucks. Only downside, is that it can get hot in there, have a brotha sweating. But either way, its the best way to get around. The next option is the Bus. Yea, the bus, imagine that. Before coming here, I had probably had not been on a public bus in maybe 10 years. That's a blessing though. But here, you can jump on the bus for a buck fifty and ride where ever. Now you do have to pay each time you switch buses. If you have a tube ticket, you ride the bus free all day which is kool too. Then you have some buses where you just jump on and don't pay, you supposed to pay a ticket in advance, but you know how that goes. I can't lie, in the states, a brotha would be hiding behind the bus stop to avoid being seen by friends waiting at the bus stop. But I see the light, if MATA was as reliable, the kid might be hopping that thing to school and downtown. Hmm, let me look into that. Ok, the locals here ride mopeds, or bikes to get where they are going too. Fellas in suits, women in dresses riding the hell out of a bike, or moped like it aint nothing. The folk on the bikes really do it big, cause they ride like they can not be hit, I watched them ride dead in front of a bus, just knowing there was about to be a collision. There are lot of cars on the road too, but I think the great majority use the other transportation systems. The thought of driving here scares me, everything is backwards as opposite to our roads. I don't think there are even speed limits on the roads. Funny thing is, as bad as driving seems here, I have not seen one accident. None at all, but they do issue a heck of a lot of parking tickets. So in summary, you know how in the states, we have those "who's driving questions", or "I aint cause I drove last time", or "man pick me up it's on your way", that aint happening here, its meet me at the tube station or on the bus route, or lets ride out on the mopeds........
3. It's not the U.S. No, I am not dissing the U.S. It's the best country in the world. But right now, we are not acting like it. Sometimes we live our lives in a glass bottle. Oblivious to anything else going in the world. I am a spoiled American, I admit. Spoiled by alot of the things that are considered normal necessities there, something as simple as drinking a cold drink. Before I left, I was aware a lot of things, but looking outside of the bottle I'd have to say that alot of us are small minded or maybe we limit out thinking in terms of the many possibilities that exist outside of our hometowns. I dunno. I can't quite expound on this thought right now.....
This was probably the best summer as an adult that I have ever had. I hope I am able to build on the experiences and ideas that I formed during my short stay. I made some new friends, and I hope we stay touch or maybe even practice a little law or simply refer a client each others way lord willing.
I am too tired to post the pics for this blog, I guess I will include them in the pics of London and Barcelona that have yet to be posted.
I gotta send some love to some folk that helped this summer either happen or poppin. Pops, Monice, Love ya'll much! KP, thanks for having my back, you just don't know! Aaron, thanks man! Pete, yo thanks for chauffeuring a bro and the crew around town, Big Ups!! AM, damn you must have put your toes in all that rice and curry! Kriston, good luck this soccer season, thanks for comping the food every time we walked in! Churchill, thanks for keeping my fade tight, mustache will grow back though! Daphne, keep doing what you doing, you are on point for sho! Crystal, thanks for keepin us straight in Rome, you are the so real "Captain". Greg, nupes and I are like oil and water, you my friend are an exception, enjoyed all the off the record chats. Sam, AKA Tony Terrell, we are gonna have to hang in Memphis. Don't forget the six pounds I owe you, cause I will deny it! Kosha, earned a new sista. Much love to everyone from all three schools, hope our paths cross again.
Damn, those six weeks went fast! I guess I am out, hope I left a mark. Peace and Blessings to London for keeping me safe while here. As Biggie eloquently stated in one of his cuts, "I'm going going, back back to Cali Cali.......Peace!!!!

Monday, July 24, 2006

Dispatch From London # 16

While I am over here preparing for my two exams, I forgot my classmates back home are preparing for the Tennessee BAR exam. Its a two day affair,this Wednesday and Thursday. I've got to wish ya'll good luck and will be praying that all of you pass the exam so you can begin your respective legal careers. Handle that exam ya'll!!!
Since I am doing shout outs, big up's to Big Ant. I got that e-mail man, I appreciate the fraternal love. Some of us may not have completed the pledging process if not for your interventions during those rough sessions. You've always been a class act man. You are a good brother to have man, Thanks!
The Alpha Convention is this weekend in Washington, D.C., gonna be a major event. I guess I have to miss this one. Here is our current President, Daryl "Biggest Fro in the History Book" Matthews on C-Span discussing the Fraternity's history and accomplishments on Sunday. http://www.q-and-a.org/Program/?ProgramID=1084
Wow, Juan Williams a reporter I use to respect has finally grown a pair. http://movies.crooksandliars.com/FNS-General-Kristol.wmv http://movies.crooksandliars.com/FOX-Williams-Kristol.wmv
Back to the books I go.......

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Dispatch from London # 15

Time to get focused on exams. Got two to study for. Just finished writing my last paper, I spent half the day getting it done.
I took a long walk around the neighborhood tonight, it was around eleven so everything in the area had pretty much shut down. Gave myself the opportunity to marinate on things. My experiences here, self improvement type things, school, life, family, all that good stuff. I was blessed to spend my summer here. I hope there are many other blessings in store. Graduation is the next thing on the list. Four months left to go.
I really want to look into getting a scooter when I return to the States. Gas is just too freaking high. Is it really possible to cut out unnecessary excursions to save gas? It's hell driving a car in Memphis with all the bad drivers, I can't imagine what riding a moped would be like. I'd have to wear a helmet, shoulder pads and a cup......Is it really worth it?
Israel still doing what the hell it wants. At least Britain has spoken out against the current offensive. Nonetheless the destruction continues.
Here are a couple of articles to check out. I am not vouching for everything stated, just food for thought. Keep me in your prayers. http://observer.guardian.co.uk/world/story/0,,1826969,00.html http://www.blackcommentator.com/ Ok I will let you figure this out, watch both videos. http://movies.crooksandliars.com/nbc_mtp_bolton_stem_cell_060723a_320x240.wmv now..... http://www.truthdig.com/avbooth/item/20060721_culture_of_hypocrisy/

Friday, July 21, 2006

Dispatch From London # 14

Yo, support Carlee McCullough for Chancery Judge. She will make a very capable Chancellor.
Ms. Saafir will make a good criminal court judge as well. Don't listen to the haters.
Anyway, I am working on a paper. Here is a lil something to keep you occupied. Bush does the NAACP. http://movies.crooksandliars.com/CSPAN-Bush-Heckle.wmv

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Dispatch From London # 13

WWIII...................yea right, don't believe the hype. I don't really feel like elaborating right now, but look at where we stand in Iraq, we can't even afford to send our troops, (let me rephrase) find enough rested troops to hold the border down. WWIII, you bet not fall for that BS. http://movies.crooksandliars.com/Colbert-FOX-WWIII.wmv
Our foreign policy has us down a path of human and fiscal destruction, while Israel's actions go unchecked by the international community. Israel has a full scale military while the individuals they target run around with small missiles. As these combatants are targeted, more innocent victims meet their death than combatants. International law demands that Israel respond to these attacks proportionately, instead, they collectively punish the civilian population who are not participating in violence by targeting neighborhoods, electricity stations and other vital infrastructure. Neither side has clean hands per se, but if you have a few annoying flies in your house, do you pour gas throughout the house, and toss a lighter to free yourself of the flies, or do you find some other means to handle the situation. Oh s#$%, let me wake up, we are talking bout the real world here.

Monday, July 17, 2006

Dispatch From London # 12

Back from Barcelona, Spain, behind in reading and sleep. What a shame.
Seven of us made moves for Barcelona. I did enjoy Barcelona for the most part, I did not get to see all of the historical sites, but did see enough to get a feel for the Country. It was kind of like being in Mexico, but with more culture or European feel.
While at an eatery, we had a chance to talk to a young lady from Serbia. As we have traveled we have gotten different treatment, nothing too bad, but some people have negative attitudes towards American. For instance, calling someone Condoleeza in Spain is equivalent to being called a b@#$%. One of the ladies in our group was called a Condoleeza by a receptionist at our hotel after the two got into a brief verbal spat. Anyway, back to the lady from Serbia. I asked her to tell me what her perception of Americans were? With five of us staring her down, she first looked a tad bit timid and her eyes grew wide as we eagerly awaited a response. Not a fluent english speaker she stammered to find the words she was looking for and then she said, "Ignorant", "Arrogant" and tried to explain "Disrespectful". I was really not too shocked by her response though. We at the table kind of discussed with her examples of why some feel that way about us and she gave us her thoughts as well on the subject. Then, I asked, tell me what has been your experience with, pointing to my skin, blacks. Her eyes got bigger, and a few at the table were a little shocked that I asked, but for me, I wanted to know plus, its just conversation. So she explained that in her country there were no blacks and she rarely saw many blacks. So I then asked her, before you ever saw or talked to a black person what did you think about them? Without hesitance she stated, that she believed black were physically superior than others and that black women were more beautiful in terms of features and bodies. We were a little shocked with here response, though I was kind of expecting the athletic thing only because we are seen more internationally participating in athletics and so on. It was an interesting dialogue with her. As we concluded she indicated we were the first to ever have such a conversation with her and for that reason, she did not think we were ignorant because we were willing to have that type of dialogue with her.

Top 3 things I am sick of in Europe. 1. cigarette Smoke/Smokers - I think I have second hand smoked about 200 packs of cigarettes since I have been here. It sooo freaking annoying, these folk smoke all day everyday. Cig companies are making a killing literally/legally. I can't go anywhere without coming back smelling like smoke, its totally out of control.

2. Must - Yo, do any of these cats here wear deodorant? For real, what is the deal? Is it the stronger your odor, the manlier you are, is it a sign of prowess or something, does it make the ladies go crazy over you? While you are on the train and you are forced to sit or stand next to the explosion of body odor, it leaves one breathless, all you can do is pray you don't pass the hell out. And then it's like they leave a trail when they walk, impossible to miss it. Come on, wear some deodorant man! DAMN....

3. No paper towels in bathroom - There are no paper towels in the bathrooms anywhere around. All they have are those hand drying machines. The machines are fine, but that means after I wash my hands, I have to use my clean hands to touch the nasty door handle. So a brotha struggles to get the door open using his pinky finger. I don't want to go into the stalls to grab some toilet paper cause I can't hold my breath that long and who knows what I will encounter in the stall. The positives later in the week. I gotta nap and read. Keep me in your prayers.

Saffi why I gotta do Six Flags again when I return, don't you know your brotha is broke?
In the past I have talked about the ost of gas and raising the minimum wage, some articles worth reading. I am buying a moped when I get back. Thats how a lot of folk in Europe get around too. There is even a show called, Pimp my Moped. http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-gashurt16jul16,0,5275140.story?coll=la-home-headlines http://64.226.238.78/PA/pk/pk216.shtml

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Dispatch From London # 11

Day two of voyage would consist of visiting Vatican City, some shopping districts and other landmarks we were unable to get to on the previous day. We probably walked about ten miles, all the while snapping photos.

Vatican City was very interesting. You can not escape the historic feel when you enter some of these places, knowing that a many people have walked the same grounds that you too are. The Basilica is where most of the past Pope's have been laid to rest. Pope John Paul II was recently laid to rest inside the building as well.
The entrance to the Vatican

Pope John Paul's burial site.

Vatican Security, they must be skilled in martial arts or something....

After leaving the Vatican, we check out some other sites and battled African street vendors, those cats be hustling fa sho...

This structure, now a museum was massive.

We had to head for the airport to fly out by six, so we made moves back to the Hostel and then the airport.

Overall, I enjoyed the sights in Rome, it was history brought to life for me. What will I take most with me though, is the memory of the best ice cream abrotha has ever had!!! To heck with Baskin Robbins...

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