Inspirational Song Analysis: Early in the Morning by Charlie Wilson, Lonnie Simmons and Rudy Taylor


When Harlan Howard was asked to describe what makes good, honest music, especially in country and folk, he replied "three chords and the truth." This is also true for rhythm and blues, also known as R&B. Relatable music serenades your heart and mind: the heart feels the emotions and the mind interprets the message. Inspirational music encourages positive change. At a recent gathering, a DJ played "Early in the Morning" written by Charlie Wilson, Lonnie Simmons and Rudy Taylor, originally recorded by The Gap Band. Even though I had heard the song several times, this time I really listened to the lyrics and discovered a powerful message about acceptance, letting go and moving on. Let's discuss....

#Earlyinthemorning #GapBand

How to Be Happy: Happiness Becomes You by Tina Turner

 



                                                        Tina Turner, Courtesy of Wikipedia

Tina Turner (November 26, 1939-May 24, 2023) was a famous singer, actor, producer and writer. Her hero's journey began in a small rural town in Brownsville, Tennessee. Turner's childhood was difficult due to financial poverty and racial discrimination. However, she was destined for greatness. Turner became an international star and sold millions of records worldwide. While browsing books at a recent library visit, Happiness Becomes You by Tina Turner caught my attention.  Turner dedicated the book to her readers: "I dedicate this book to you....in honor of your unseen efforts to triumph over each problem life sends your way." Let's discuss...

Celebration Bowl 2025 - Prairie View A&M vs South Carolina State University- Lessons on Bouncing Back from Adversity

South Carolina State University overcomes a 21-point deficit at half-time to win the 2025 Celebration Bowl!

South Carolina State University Wins by 2 points!
At half-time South Carolina State University scored 0 points

I look forward to attending the Cricket Celebration Bowl every year. The bowl is a post-season game between the champions of the Mid-Eastern Atlantic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), which are two prominent conferences of historical black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The competitive festive family friendly event is a fun time. Even though I did not attend a HBCU, I love supporting and sharing the experience with the community.  On December 13th, Prairie View A&M played against South Carolina State University. The game is inspirational and a metaphor about overcoming adversity.  Let's discuss....

Book Review: Men and Grief, by Mitch Cohen M. ED, Contributors: Jon Yaeger; Robert Rainey; Dom Caratzas; Derek Scott, RSW, and Stuart Smith, LPC

 

"Life is suffering," is one of the Four Noble Truths in the Buddhist religion. Even though I am not Buddhist, I agree. Suffering is universal because it is an integral part of the human experience. Grieving is one of the few experiences in life we all have in common. Show me one person who has never cried in life. Go ahead, I will wait. Everybody grieves. It is quite common for women to be vocal about grief. For an example, most talk shows are female topic focused. In contrast, it is not common for men to be vulnerable and openly share their grief.  In the book, Men and Grief by Mitch Cohen M. Ed. and Contributors: Jon Yaeger; Robert Rainey; Dom Caratzas; Derek Scott, RSW, and Stuart Smith, LPC, men share their stories of grief and how they found strength to overcome sorrow through family, therapy, community and love. Let's discuss.....