Valentine's Day 2012

Today is the perfect day to celebrate these life virtues and principles. 

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Photo from Ebony.com

1963 – 2012

I mourn, and deeply regret, the sudden loss of popular music’s voice:  Whitney Houston. 

Whitney’s human journey ended on February 11, 2012, and while she is no longer with us, she leaves a legacy of music to be enjoyed and studied by fans, scholars and creators. 

Gone too soon – she will always be simply: The Voice.

I can only add my voice to the chorus of millions that pray for strength and God’s grace on behalf of her only child, and her surviving family members.

Paid In Full: Sepia Souls

Almost 161 years ago, this copy of receipt was written in reference to the purchase of a slave named Davy.  The exact date as shown is September 28, 1850.  Sold by a Virginia resident to a Florida resident for the amount of $765.00.

Slavery remains an undeniable stain on the fabric of the red, white, and blue. 

Photograph of a receipt for the purchase of a slave named Davy, a photo by State Library and Archives of Florida on Flickr.

Earthquake By Northeast

                  
An earthquake measuring in the range of 5.9 to 6.0 hit the northeastern United States today, its epicenter in Mineral, VA.  Washington, D.C. area in the news once again.

 

Sometimes life can be stranger than fiction.

        

Photograph of the Effect of Earthquake on Houses Built on Loose or Made Ground After the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake, 1906, a photo by The U.S. National Archives on Flickr.

Black Love and The Gold Standard

Nikolas Ashford & Valerie Simpson, for many of us, are not a duo, but a solo act, comprised of two distinct and complimentary personalities.  The loss Nikolas yesterday from a bout with cancer is a tragic end to one of the most documented love story of generations.  They are the gold standard of music creators and in very rare company.

         They didn’t just write songs, although it’s hard not to connect with The Boss, as performed by Diana Ross, or I’m Every Woman, classically written by them and made immortal by not one, but two vocal giants: Chaka Khan & Whitney Houston.   They sold their songs and their message of eternal love through their lifestyle.  They were the couple that loved love and being in love.

The last time I saw them, was in a ballroom surrounded by songwriters half their age, who just wanted to touch them, speak with them, and somehow, be anointed by them.    They were warm and welcoming as always, and yes, still loving one another. 

         I was shocked and saddened to learn of Nick’s untimely transition.  I wish Valerie a peaceful existence on her journey without Nick, and may God watch over her and the extended family during this time and going forward.