Trayvon Martin: The Meaning Of It All

Trayvon Martin: The Meaning Of It All

     As we know, a week ago, a jury in Florida decided to find George Zimmerman not guilty in the death of Trayvon Martin. Unfortunately, this was a ruling that many were expecting throughout the trial due to Florida's tough self-defense laws, combined with Stand Your Ground. Now I'm not going to get into the specifics that have been repeated an re-hashed by the media, but into the broader scope on the coverage and what this case means for us as a country.

     For one, as expected, vigils and rallies began soon after the reading of the verdict. What didn't happen though? So-called “riots”. Throughout the media, analysts wondered if Sanford,FL was ready for the “unrest”. Guess what happened? Peaceful demonstrations. Not just in Sanford, but throughout the U.S, peaceful demonstrations rose up. Yes, here and there were some scattered violence, as seen in Los Angeles, but far and few between, consisting of only a few hundred, if that many. This put a real damper on the right wing media, expecting Rodney King-esque riots and violence. Some outlets were so disappointed, they stooped as low as posting fake Trayvon Martin riot videos, http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/07/15/1223793/-Darn-No-Post-Verdict-Riots-Post-Video-of-a-Fake-One-Anyway# (posting videos of the Vancouver riots that followed the 2011 Stanley Cup between the Canucks and Bruins). The belief that the country would become “unhinged” proved to be absolutely, positively false. So what was next for the RW (right wing) media?

(Vancouver riots falsely claimed as Trayvon Martin riots)

(actual peaceful demonstration in New York City)

     It was to follow-up what they had done throughout coverage of the case, demonize Trayvon Martin, turn him into a “thug”, praise Zimmerman for his actions. They would consistently criticize NBC News and others for their selection of photos “putting Trayvon in a good light”. What many don't see, is that the RW media did the exact same thing, only with an opposite approach. Skimming the photos of Trayvon to put him in a negative light, to show how “scary he looked”. This hypocrisy really shouldn't surprise anyone.

     To set things straight, Trayvon Martin was the victim here, not the other way around. RW media has criticized Pres. Obama in his comments for not offering “prayers to Zimmerman's parents”. George Zimmerman is now not only alive, but a free man. They were able to hug and embrace Zimmerman following the verdict. As for Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin? They will never get to hug their son again.

     Trayvon Martin wasn't on trial here, however it sure looked that way. As John Guy said in his closing rebuttal “To the dead we owe the truth”. We certainly didn't get that in this case. Zimmerman supporters and the RW media grasped onto the same false narrative that Trayvon somehow caused his own death; bringing up Trayvon's use of marijuana, etc. Irrelevant, all of it. Trayvon Martin was a 17yr old boy, who in his last moments on this Earth was afraid, and rightfully so; being followed in the dark of night by a cop wannabe who was locked and loaded looking to play a hero. Zimmerman had a right to defend himself, they say. What about Trayvon? Zimmerman was the one following Trayvon, not the other way around. Did Trayvon not have the right to stand up for himself and fight for his life?

     Looking beyond the specifics, the Trayvon Martin case has opened up a discussion of race in America. A discussion of racial profiling and civil rights. However the RW media will do everything in their power to halt any such discussion. They'll throw out how you're “playing the race card”. They'll cry “reverse racism”. They'll state that somehow African-Americans are perpetuating racism, and need to just get over it. The RW media will try to say that any discussion on racism, any mention of racism, is racist. Try to make that logic work. You can't, because it doesn't. Simply put, those in the GOP perpetuating this don't want this discussion, because it would require some serious soul-searching as a party. It would require opening up old wounds, and facing a dark past head-on. Its much easier to simply ignore. They'll simply act like racial profiling and “white privilege” don't exist. This leads to another area.

     If you're white, think about it. Have you ever gotten stares going through a store? Have you ever noticed someone clutching to their belongings, holding their breath until you leave? Cars locking as you walk by? Fearful driving or walking past the police? The answer is mostly no. You don't have to worry. Now step back a moment and try to imagine spending a day in someone else's shoes. Someone who has experienced this, and who has to worry about it. Someone who will have to at one point or another have to sit down with their child about how to deal with these things – http://ideas.time.com/2012/03/21/how-to-talk-to-young-black-boys-about-trayvon-martin/.

     This isn't a black issue, or a white issue, its everyone's issue. An issue of a judicial system minus justice. The Trayvon Martin trial on paper was a fair one, with a defense, prosecution, witnesses, judge and jury. We must look beyond to find the injustice, and that's the stereotypes of Trayvon Martin's friend Rachel Jeantel. Its the foundation of Stand Your Ground blended into self-defense law in Florida, and in many other states across the country. Its the RW media putting Trayvon Martin on trial, calling Zimmerman the “true victim”. This is an issue of equality, for everyone to have their fair chance at justice, no matter the color of their skin or their background. Its an issue of violence in this country.

                             (Dedicated performance of "Forever Young" during a Justin Timberlake/Jay-Z concert)

     Looking beyond the judicial and racial aspects, this is an issue of violence. Our youth's innocence has been broken. Where are we safe anymore? On a subway to see New Year's fireworks? Oscar Grant. To visit with our representative in Congress? Tuscon. To see a movie? Aurora. To go to school? Sandy Hook. To go to a gas station to fill up our car? Jordan Davis (the next SYG-self defense case in Florida). To walk to a convenience store to pick up some snacks before a game? Trayvon Martin. When will it end? The time is now. The movement has just begun. A movement to rise up for justice. A movement to represent all of these young men and women, regardless of race or color. As a culture we've become too used to violence, we just turn the other way. Not anymore, it is time to rise up, to use our voice, and speak out for all the Oscar Grant's, the Trayvon Martin's, the Jordan Davis's of the world. Its time that we take a good long hard look in the mirror as a nation. For the first time, we had a President this past Friday talk about race who had experienced profiling. Listen to his words, but don't rely on politicians to get this conversation started. Talk to your friends, your family, your children. “Our children are better at these issues then we are, then we were” - Obama. And that is the truth. We have become and will continue to become a greater nation. The time is now.

                                        
                                          (Beyonce's performance at the United Nations of "I Was Here")
                                   

“Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable...Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

NCAA Athletes: Wasted Chances

It seems to be a common theme, athletes with a lot of talent, along with a lot of wasted chances. The latest case is Ole Miss shooting guard Marshall Henderson, suspended indefinitely for a failed drug test.  

As noted in a USA Today article, Henderson arrived at Ole Miss with a checkered past, including forgery charges and previously failed drug tests. Henderson has also seen jail time. 

Henderson was expected to step up this year and lead the Ole Miss Men's Basketball team, as said by Coach Andy Kennedy. "Since the season ended we have talked a lot about Marshall taking a greater leadership role with our team," the coach said.

Well, so much for that. When Henderson had the chance to step up, to continue to lead the Ole Miss team back to prominence after a solid NCAA Tournament run, his role on the team is now greatly undefined….if their even is a role for Henderson anymore.

This was Marshall's umpteenth chance, following stints with Utah and South Plains Junior College. Henderson showed great promise his freshman year at Utah, starting 30 of 31 games, second on the team with 11.8 PPG, earning an honorable mention for the All-Mountain West team. Following his Freshman year, Marshall transferred to Texas Tech, and sat out the 2010-2011 season. Following the firing of Tech coach Pat Knight, he transferred again, this time to South Plains. Marshall would lead South Plains to a #1 NJCAA ranking, and was awarded NJCAA Player Of The Year. For his junior season, Marshall transferred again, to Ole Miss. He started 33 of 36 games and averaged a SEC best 20.1 PPG. Throughout his high school and college career, trouble has always followed Marshall.

Before graduating from High School, Marshall was placed on probation for attempting to purchase $800 worth of marijuana with counterfeit money. Marshall would fail a drug test (alcohol, marijuana, cocaine), while on probation, resulting in jail time. Henderson went on to serve 25 days in jail.

So upon this recent incident, how has Marshall Henderson handled himself? He went to social media of course, heading to twitter mentioning how today was going to be an "interesting day". He then went on to call out FOX Sports' Erin Andrews and post an Instagram video where he seemed to not really care at all. Well, if Marshall doesn't care about his future, why on Earth should we?

 Too often we get too caught up in college athletes, almost putting them into a hero status (look at Johnny Manziel and his recent online antics). In the end, these are just college kids who are presented with a fantastic opportunity in front of them. A chance at advancing their careers, yes, but also a free education. Any other college student could only dream of such an opportunity, believe me. I'm personally hoping to go to graduate school within the next year, just adding to my current debt. If these select few don't seem to care or even give a damn about their future, why should we? Why should we defend them? It simply isn't worth the time or the effort.

So, Marshall Henderson, you have a choice here. You can go to rehab, find yourself, grow up, and return and become a leader. Or you can continue to mock on twitter, post videos, and continue to be a selfish child who believes that the world revolves around you. 

Now don't get me wrong, not all college athletes are like this. Most know that their athletic careers will end in college, and take their education seriously. Some, like Myron Rolle, not just succeed, but strive and prosper. But it seems that for the high profile athletes, for every Rolle, there's a Marshall Henderson.

So while you continue to "mock" people Marshall,  Myron Rolle is pursuing medical school. The only person making a mockery here, is you Marshall. Making a mockery of your school, making a mockery of your education, making a mockery of yourself. There's still time left Marshall……... grow up.

Ranking The Idols

  

With Season 12 of American Idol in the books, I thought I would try to rank all the current Idol winners (including S12 winner Candice Glover). Now a warning, I'm not basing this on record sales, just on my own preferred choices. So lets get this started, starting from #12 all the way to #1.

12) Taylor Hicks 

In a season that saw Katharine McPhee and Chris Daughtry, somehow Taylor Hicks came through as S5's winner. Hicks has seen the least success thus far of nearly any other winner. The soulful stylings of Hicks haven't carried over to the mainstream market. His latest album is "The Distance" (2009). He's now with Modern Whomp records.

"The Distance" (2009): 52,000 (sold), Billboard 200: #58 (peak), Billboard Independent: #5 (peak)

                                     

11) Fantasia Barrino

S3's Fantasia lands in at #11. She may have seen more success than some of the "WGWG" winners, but drama away from the mic has led to unwanted drama for Fantasia (drug overdose in 2010). Fantasia will be working/collaborating with Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliot on her upcoming project, so maybe Fantasia can pick things back up. Her latest album "Side Effects Of You" (2013) has seen some success, so the future is still bright for Fantasia to move up this list in the future. Fantasia has been with J, RCA and 19 records.

"Side Effects Of You" (2013): 1st week sales of 91,000 copies, Billboard 200: #2 (peak), Billboard R&B/Hip Hop: #1

                             

10) Lee Dewyze

S9 winner Lee Dewyze finds himself at #10. Lee's post-idol career hasn't gone to plan, with his debut album being one of the lowest selling debuts of an Idol winner. Lee has since left RCA, and is now with WuLi/Vanguard records, but still associated with 19 records. Lee's problem has been management and styling, as his pre-idol independent albums are what Lee should be doing more of. His latest album is "What Once Was" (2012). Data for "What Once Was" isn't available, but his debut album "Live It Up" only peaked at #19 on the Billboard 200 with a total of 151,000 copies.

                                    

9) Ruben Studdard

S2 winner Ruben lands in at #9. Ruben has seen mixed success since taking the 2nd season of Idol. Ruben saw his debut album go platinum with 1.8M copies. Since Idol, Ruben has lost over 80lbs and has been an advocate for spreading the arts, as well as awareness of sickle-cell disease. While Ruben has seen success in the R&B market, he hasn't seen the same success on the mainstream market. Ruben is currently with Shanachie records. His latest album is "Letters From Birmingham" (2012).

"Letters From Birmingham" (2012): 9,000 copies, Billboard 200: #73 (peak), Billboard R&B: #12 (peak)

                                

8) Scotty McCreery

S10 winner Scotty lands at #8. Scotty was the first male country artist to win American Idol. Scotty has seen success on the country market, however I don't really feel like he separates himself from the rest of the male country landscape. Scotty saw his debut album go platinum, so the future is bright for Scotty. His latest album is a Christmas album "Christmas With Scotty McCreery" (2012). Scotty is with 19/Interscope/Mercury Nashville.

"Christmas With Scotty McCreery" (2012): 348,000 copies (as of January 2013), Billboard 200: #4 (peak), Billboard Country: #2 (peak), Billboard Holiday: #1.

                                         

7) Kris Allen

S8 winner Kris finds himself at #7. Kris really came out of nowhere in S8 to overtake Adam Lambert. He really broke out when he performed Kanye West's "Heartless" on the Idol stage in the Top 3. His debut album saw only mild success compared to other winners' debut albums, selling only 346,000 copies. Kris recently split with RCA records during the last year. His latest album is "Thank You Camellia" (2012). Kris was recently in a car accident requiring surgery for a broken wrist that wasn't healing properly, so hopefully Kris can get back out there and record music that he really wants to make.

"Thank You Camellia" (2012):  35,000 copies, Billboard 200: #26 (peak), Canadian Albums: #93 (peak)

                                   

6) Phillip Phillips

S11's Phillip lands in at #6. He could be argued to be further up the list, but safe to be cautious just 1yr removed from Idol. Thanks to being used in the 2012 Summer Olympics for the "Fab/Fierce 5" U.S Woman's Gymnastic's Team, "Home" has become one of the top selling singles for any Idol winner. He could even be argued as the top male idol winner. Phillip has experienced some health issues coming off his Idol win, but he is scheduled to continue touring in the Summer. Phillip is with Interscope records, and his debut album "The World From The Side Of The Moon" (2012) has seen success, already selling 871,000 copies since being released last November. Great things could be on the horizon for Phillip.

"The World From The Side Of The Moon" (2012): 871,000 copies, Billboard 200: #4 (peak), Canadian Albums: #6 (peak)

5) *Candice Glover*

The latest winner, S12's Candice finds herself debuting at #5. Week after week, Candice's soulful yet jazzy stylings always seemed to impress. One could see her being molded after someone like Adele and Mary J Blige. Her first single "I Am Beautiful" has peaked at #10 on the Itunes Singles Chart. Her debut album "Music Speaks" will come out in July. Candice is signed with 19/Interscope. There is great promise for Candice, so lets hope she gets to record the music she is meant for.

4) Jordin Sparks

S6 winner Jordin finds herself at #4. While Jordin hasn't seen the success of female winners Carrie Underwood or Kelly Clarkson (who are to come later), she has still been successful. Her debut album went platinum. While her sophomore album didn't see that same success, she recently announced that she had come to an agreement with RCA, and that her 3rd album will be coming out sometime this Fall. Jordin has recently been in the press for her relationship with fellow artist Jason Derulo, and they both seem to be incredibly happy. Here's hoping for her new album to indeed drop in the Fall.

"Battlefield" (2009): 177,000 copies, Billboard 200: #7 (peak), Canadian Albums: #12 (peak)

                                 

3) David Cook

He may not have seen the success Phillip Phillips has seen recently, but I still think S7's David Cook is the top male Idol winner. Week to week, David always brought a fresh or unique arrangement to his song choices. Unlike some of the other "WGWG" winners, David's debut album went platinum, however his sophomore effort didn't see the same effect, and he split with RCA. He is currently with XIX Entertainment, and has recently been recording new material in Nashville, so lets hope for another album soon from David Cook, more like his recently released single "Laying Me Low".

"This Loud Morning" (2011): 130,000 copies, Billboard 200: #7 (peak), Canadian Albums: #23 (peak)

                                 

2) Carrie Underwood

What can be said about S4's Carrie Underwood? She's been one of, if not the, most successful idol winner. She won at a time where Idol hadn't really produced a country artist, but Carrie proved that Country music could work on idol. She has become not just a country star, but a worldwide music star. Album after album, Carrie has yet to disappoint, with every one of her albums going platinum. Carrie has shown a newer side to her self with her latest album "Blown Away" (2012). Carrie is with 19/Arista Nashville. Idol may never produce anyone as successful as Carrie, or as my #1 Idol (still to come), again.

"Blown Away" (2012): 1.438M copies, Billboard Country: #1, Billboard 200: #1, Canadian Albums: #1

                                      

1) Kelly Clarkson

Of course, the original, S1's Kelly Clarkson takes my top spot. Kelly showed that someone from a show like American Idol can experience not just success on the music scene, but become a worldwide star. Kelly has certainly grown since S1, going from a light pop side, to a country feel, even to a dark side. You can never top the original. While Carrie may have had more records sold, being from close where I grew up, I'll always hold a spot for Kelly. Kelly is still with 19/RCA, where her latest album "Stronger" (2011) has gone platinum. Kelly has also released a Greatest Hits album, with new singles such as "Catch My Breath" and "People Like Us".

"Stronger" (2011): 1.043M copies, Billboard 200: #2 (peak), Canadian Albums: #4 (peak)

                                    

And there you have it. Some may disagree with this ranking, but as I said, this was my preference. So who ranks where in your top 12? Leave your rankings and other idol opinions in the comments.

MLB Season Preview

Its that time of year again, as March turns into April, and the dreams of 32 teams reignite to last through October and into the Fall Classic. In this preview, I'll predict the records of each team, followed by a summary of the division. I'll also include MVP/Cy Young top 3 predictions, along with post-season predictions. So with that, lets begin.

Tampa Bay Rays: 92-70
Toronto Blue Jays: 89-73
Boston Red Sox: 86-76
Baltimore Orioles: 81-81
New York Yankees: 76-86

Despite the James Shields trade, I think the Rays will come out on top, in part because this division is so wide open. I have 4 of the 5 teams at or above .500. The Blue Jays went all in this offseason, but it'll be hard to make up the ground for last year's 73 win season. The Red Sox are coming off one of their worst seasons in recent memory, and realized that in the offseason, bringing in a lot of complementary pieces like Napoli, Dempster and D. Ross. If they're still in it by the trade deadline, with an acquisition they could be right in the picture to take it all. Meanwhile, the Orioles luck might run out, with the amount of 1-run and extra inning games they won last year. And lastly, the Yankees. This could be their '12 Red Sox-like season, with the amount of injuries and turmoil they're facing already. 

Detroit Tigers: 96-66

Kansas City Royals: 87-75

Cleveland Indians: 84-78

Chicago White Sox: 80-82

Minnesota Twins: 71-91

The Tigers enter this season with peace of mind knowing Verlander is now locked up long-term. While the Tigers may have question marks in the back of their bullpen, their lineup is still top notch, with the return of Victor Martinez who missed all of 2012. The youngsters from the Royals may finally emerge, and their rotation got a boost with James Shields at the cost of top prospect Will Myers. The Indians built a solid foundation for the future, but their rotation still looks shaky. The White Sox were fairly quiet this offseason, not really sure what to expect from them. As for the Twins, well, thanks to the Astros they won't be the worst team in the AL…

Texas Rangers: 93-69

Los Angeles Angels: 91-71

Oakland Athletics: 85-77

Seattle Mariners: 79-83

Houston Astros: 58-104

Yes, the Rangers lost a lot of talent, but I still think they're good enough to take the division. Yu Darvish will be stepping into his sophomore year in the MLB, and he could reach ace status this year.  Colby Lewis and Martin Perez will bolster the rotation, coming back later in the season. The Angels should be right in it, adding Josh Hamilton to an already vaunted offense. They have some questions in the back of their rotation though. Can the Athletics repeat last year? We'll see, but they have some question marks up the middle of their infield. The Mariners offense should be improved with the additions of Morse and Morales, but still not good enough. And the Astros? Maybe 58 wins is even generous.

WildCards: 

AL MVP:

 1) Miguel Cabrera

 2) Mike Trout

 3) Yu Darvish

He may not repeat his triple-crown performance, but he'll lead a vaunted Tigers offense this season, and I think can take back-to-back MVP awards. It would be truly impressive if Trout repeats his rookie performance, but I just don't see that happening.

AL Cy Young:

1) Yu Darvish

2) Justin Verlander

3) James Shields

Darvish was solid in his rookie season, and I think he'll build upon it. Of course you can never count out Verlander, and I also think Shields could have a break-out year with the Royals.

AL Wild Card: Toronto Blue Jays Vs Los Angeles Angels

For this game, I would imagine it would be R.A Dickey vs. Jered Weaver. I would give the edge to the Angels to advance to the ALDS

ALDS: Los Angeles Angels vs. Detroit Tigers

Two vaunted offenses, but I think the Tigers pitching gets them past the Angels. Tigers in 4

ALDS: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Texas Rangers

Seems this is a common post-season match-up recently. With the Rangers BP, I give them an edge in a series that could go the distance. Rangers in 5

ALCS: Texas Rangers vs. Detroit Tigers

This would be an interesting match-up, but I think the Tigers would just be too much for the Rangers. Tigers in 6

Washington Nationals: 99-63

Atlanta Braves: 92-70

Philadelphia Phillies: 84-78

New York Mets: 79-83

Miami Marlins: 63-99

I am going to buy into the Nationals hype, they're just a complete team who improved even further during the offseason adding Soriano and Haren. The Braves could also hang around and get a wildcard bid, with their addition of the Upton brothers. For the Phillies, it all depends on the likes of Roy Halladay and other veterans such as Utley and Howard. The Mets are looking towards the future with their young players. As for the Marlins? Welp.

Cincinnati Reds: 94-68

St. Louis Cardinals: 91-71

Milwaukee Brewers: 86-76

Pittsburgh Pirates: 82-80

Chicago Cubs: 77-85

I think the Reds are just too much of a complete team not to take the division. The Cardinals will be with them, but with a hole at SS and youth at the back of their rotation could hold them just behind the Reds. The Brewers addition of Lohse should help their shaky rotation, but their offense should keep them above .500. The time is coming for the Pirates, as I see them with a winning season. With the debut of Cole and others coming soon, their time is quickly approaching to contend. The same goes for the Cubs, but not this year further down the line.

San Francisco Giants: 93-69

Arizona Diamondbacks: 89-73

Los Angels Dodgers: 84-78

Colorado Rockies: 75-87

San Diego Padres: 74-88

The Giants pitching staff is really solid, along with a strong lineup. The Diamondbacks additions should help keep them in contention. Will the Dodgers be able to coalesce? We'll see. The Rockies have some major holes in their pitching rotation that could bring them down. As for the Padres? They'll be without their star 3B Chase Headley to start the season, so it could be a rough beginning.

 Wildcards: 

NL MVP:

1) Andrew McCutchen

2) Joey Votto

3) Buster Posey

McCutchen will be the reason the Pirates finally get a winning season. Look for Votto and '12 MVP Posey to also be in the mix.

NL Cy Young:

1) Stephen Strasburg

2) Matt Cain

3) Clayton Kershaw

This could be Strasburg's first full season, after being shut down towards the stretch last season. The ace of the Giants, Cain could also be in the mix, along with the Dodgers Kershaw.

NL Wildcard: St Louis Cardinals vs. Atlanta Braves

Anything could happen in this match-up, but with the Braves additions, I like them to advance.

NLDS: Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals

I think the Nationals would just be too much for the Braves. Nationals in 3

NLDS: San Francisco Giants vs. Cincinnati Reds

I think the Giants pitching would be able to settle the touted Reds lineup. Giants in 4

NLCS: San Francisco Giants vs. Washington Nationals

This could be a classic match-up. Two very solid teams, caliber rotations. I think the Nationals offense puts them forward. Nationals in 7

World Series: Detroit Tigers vs. Washington Nationals

This could be one of the better world series match-ups we've seen in recent memory. I think this series has the potential to go the distance. In the end, I think the duo of Strasburg and Gonzalez would put the Nats over the edge. Nationals in 7

Remembering A Friend

It took a while for me to decide how to write this, asking myself what kind of tone should it have? What should I include? How should I even start this? Realizing this is a personal post, I just decided to write what was on my mind. While this post in this instance is about a friend who recently passed, I feel like these same thoughts in this post could be used for anyone who has lost someone close to them.


Amanda Cartier was truly a terrific and good natured person, seemingly always with a smile on her face. While we had drifted apart after high school, as can tend to happen, I would still consider her a friend. She was part of a network of people within the L.H.H.S marching band that helped to get me out of my shell.

I know that those close to her are now struggling with what to do now. The best thing that you can do is to simply live your life, but in a certain aspect. Do the most with your life in honor of her. Let her memory inspire you to go above and beyond, as she would have wanted.

At the moment it seems tough, to decide what to do next, how to go on. Personally, I've pondered how this could have happened. How could someone be taken so early in life, when they had so many goals to accomplish, so much more to strive for? We'll struggle through these thoughts, but as I did, just look up towards the sky, during a sunny day, with the sun illuminating behind the clouds, or during a sunrise or sunset, and know that she is safe looking down upon us. With every slight breeze, realize that  she'll always be with us, never to be forgotten.

I don't want to get too religious with this post, but Amanda now knows of a peace none of us can know. She knows all the peace that we can never find.

If you find yourself awake 2am, unable to sleep, just close your eyes and cherish the memories. The times during band camp…the bus rides…her smile. She'll always be with us through the memories that are left with us.


With that last point, I felt it was poignant to close this post with this: As time moves on, reflect on the memories, the ones that make you smile. Over the past week, we've all shed tears, and more will be shed over this tragic loss. But live on with her in spirit. Let her inspire you.

"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened" - Theodor Seuss Geisel


She made this world a better place. While time will move on, and we will get back to our daily tasks and schedules, we will never be quite the same.

The Catholic Church: Modernization, and the importance of the 2013 Conclave

The Catholic Church is at an important cross-roads right now. Over the next several days, the Cardinals  at the Vatican will not only be selecting a new pope, they'll be selecting a new direction for the Church. Yes, it indeed is going to be a crucial time for the Catholic Church, and here's why.

It isn't exactly shocking news to hear that many Catholics feel disconnected with the Church. This has been a growing problem for some time now. According to a Washington Post - ABC News Poll, a majority of American Catholics feel disconnected with the Church, and feel out of touch with the Church's views and positions. Majority of U.S Catholics Favor Change

This growing disconnect, at least for Americans is in part because of the Church's views on birth control and contraception. For as far as one can trace, the Church has been against contraception. The Catholic Church even rejected the White House proposal on birth control in the piece of legislation commonly known as "Obamacare". Higher-ups from the Church said that the White House proposal did not do enough to offer "safeguards" for religious hospitals and institutions.

Nearly 6 in 10 Catholics would characterize the Church as not in synch with their attitudes and lifestyles, even though a majority of Catholics (in the same poll) praised the performance of out-going Pope Benedict. Catholics are at a cross-roads with the Church, disappointed in the overall institution, but not with its top official. From the last Conclave (2005) until now however, a growing number of Catholics want change with the Church, and want the Church to leave its traditional policies.

In that same Washington Post - ABC News Poll (conducted between March 7-10 of 1,001 adults), 55 percent of Catholics oppose the ban on married priests. In general, Catholics want to see more transparency within the Church, and specifically within the Vatican.

This transparency also stretches to the child abuse scandal that has plagued the Church for quite some time. About 8 in 10 Americans disapprove of the Church's actions, with a 78 percent disapproval. Differing from the ABC News Poll, a NY Times/CBS News poll found that 7 in 10 U.S Catholics disapprove of Pope Benedict's and the Vatican's response to the scandal. Catholics want to see those Priests accused with abuse to be rightfully disciplined.

In general, there is a lot of secrecy within the Vatican. This includes a Vatican banking scandal, where a report has just been released. The Vatican Bank has been described as the "most secretive bank in the world" (Forbes, Jun.26,2012).

So now, the main question, who will have to lead the Catholic Church through these troublesome times, in trying to guide the Church back into a respective light? It will certainly be a rough going for the new pope. Now, in taking a step back, I don't want you to think I'm bashing the Catholic Church. Do they have their own problems? Yes. Do they need to respond and answer for those problems? Absolutely. However, not only does the Catholic Church need to return to a light of relevancy, but I think Catholics and the World in general need it as well. I'll describe this later in my conclusion.

The Cardinals

Heading into this Conclave, there isn't any heavy favorite. Instead, there is a scattered list of 10 or so likely candidates, stretching from Italy, Africa, Latin America, and North America. I'll now provide a list of about 9-10 candidates (some candidates pulled from NBC News.)

Cardinal Angelo Scola (71yrs old): He was appointed Archbishop of Milan by Pope Benedict. Scola's writings have been described as condemnations on not only homosexuality and abortion, but also genetic engineering, birth control and feminism. His logic is seen as connecting feminism to homosexuality. Along with age, this strict conservative view would seem as a drawback.

Cardinal Marc Ouellet (68yrs old): Ouellet is a Canadian Cardinal of the Catholic Church. The Cardinal is known for his missionary work in South America, as he has been named President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He had previously been the Archbishop of Quebec and primate of Canada. He has been described as "friendly, humble and flexible, not incapable of listening to others".

Cardinal Leonardo Sandri (69yrs old): He is an Argentine Cardinal of the Catholic Church. He is the current Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches in the Roman Curia. He has been involved with Jewish-Christian relations, as he was present at Pope Benedict's trip to the Yad Vashem.

Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi (70yrs old): He is an Italian Cardinal who currently serves the Roman Curia as President of the Pontifical Council for Culture. Ravasi stated on the theory of evolution that "I want to affirm, as an 'a priori', the compatibility of the theory of evolution with the message of the Bible and the Church's theology". Ravasi also noted that the Church has not condemned the work of Charles Darwin.

Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco (70yrs old): He is an Italian Cardinal who currently serves as Archbishop of Genoa and President of the Italian Episcopal Conference. He is seen as having conservative views regarding abortion and same sex marriages, saying "Why say no to incest?" in his condemnation of same sex marriage.

Cardinal Peter Turkson (64yrs old): He is a Ghanaian Cardinal and President of the Pontifical Council for Justice & Peace. He has also served as Archbishop of Cape Coast. Turkson has been called "the lone Scripture scholar in the Pope's 'Senate' ". Turkson stood by Pope Benedict's view of condoms on the HIV/AIDS crisis, but doesn't rule out condoms in all situations. Turkson has also called for the reform of the International financial system. He has called for a distinction between human rights and moral issues.

Cardinal Odilo Scherer (63yrs old): He is a Brazilian Cardinal who currently serves as Archbishop of Sao Paulo. He is considered to be theologically moderate. He uses modern social media routinely. He has been quoted as saying "Priests aren't showmen…The Mass is not to be transformed into a show".

Cardinal Timothy Dolan (63yrs old): He is an American Cardinal who is the current Archbishop of New York. Dolan also serves as the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. He is known for his conservative values and charismatic media personality. Dolan had been assigned to investigate Priests accused of sexual misconduct in St. Louis in 2002. He has also visited the World Trade Center site, saying "We will never stop crying. But it's also about September 12th and the renewal, the rebuilding, hope, solidarity and compassion that symbolized this great community and still does".

Cardinal Sean Patrick O'Malley (68yrs old): He is an American Cardinal, currently serving as Archbishop of Boston. He is a member of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. Regarding abortion rights, he has said that, unless excommunicated by the Church, he would not deny communion to Catholic politicians who support such rights. O'Malley instituted one of the first comprehensive sexual abuse policies in the Catholic Church.

So what does the Church need to do?

In my view, the perfect selection for Pope would be Cardinals Ouellet, Ravasi, Scherer, Dolan or O'Malley. They each show the ability to be able to modernize the Church.

It certainly won't be easy for the Catholic Church to change. It will happen gradually over the next few years. It certainly won't be drastic change. No one is expecting the Church to suddenly embrace same-sex marriage, and really, no one is asking them to do that right now. What the Church does need to do however is to become more transparent. It will be important for the bureaucracy of the Vatican to open up and not be so secretive. This openness includes the sex-abuse scandal, with the rumors of pay-offs and cover-ups. As noted with the candidates, they have worked with the Church to be more open on this issue, Cardinal O'Malley in particular.

The Church does have to wake up on certain issues, such as birth control and contraception. One can see where the Church is coming from on contraception and the HIV/AIDS crisis, that it might become a kind of safeguard, however to say that they it won't help the crisis is still irresponsible on the Church's behalf. The Church also must stop their contradictory views in the connection with abortion and birth control. Being that the Church is against abortion, it would seem to make sense that they would support some methods of birth control. Usage of birth control will cut down on unwanted pregnancies.

It isn't about celebrity, its about service. The new Pope has to become a leader for the Church and for Catholics all over the world. They need to be accessible to the people, and to not "close the doors off". That's what the Church desperately needs to do. As I stated, they don't need to suddenly embrace same-sex marriage, but to be more open, more accepting of different people and different cultures. This includes laying off condemnations comparing the acceptance of homosexuality to incest, making claims that feminism is leading to homosexuality. Such claims are just ludicrous, and cause people to become isolated from the Church.

This isn't just Rome's Pope, or Italy's Pope, this is the World's Pope. The Church has to come to realize that. The Pope isn't just a symbol for all Catholics, but for the World. This being true, the Church has to be open to all forms of Christianity, and religions in general, whether it be Judaism, Islam, Hindu or Buddhism. All of these seek out a common bond of a spiritual relationship. The new Pope will have to be a reformer. The new Pope should focus teachings on helping the poor, on leading the case on climate change, for example.

The Pope needs to be somebody that the World can look upon for words of value, faith, wisdom and virtue, not of hate and condemnation. During tough or troubling times, we should be able to look towards the Pope for guidance.

Today's society has grown increasingly cynical regarding the Church and religion in general. This is the Catholic Church's chance to show those people that they are willing to change, they are willing to modernize the Church. Ultimately, the Church will have no other choice but to connect to today's Catholics. If not, the Catholic Church (as an organization), will continue to fall into obscurity.