Flip the script
I suppose it was inevitable that President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama would be come an iconic couple. A lot has been written about their date nights, affection towards one another in public, and the history of how they came to be.
It all brings a discussion about love, romance, and marriage, especially among African Americans that sheds some light on our attitudes. One particular article that has made its rounds on Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking sites is from the Washington’s Post interactive site, The Root. It was entitled What Single Women Can Learn from Michelle.
Of course it doused gasoline on an already hot fire of debate between men and women, which is always annoying fun and informative. I actually thought the article made some excellent points. I just thought it would be vindictive fun and informative to flip the script a little:
What can single men learn from President Obama?
Do you think that we place too much blame on each other for the state of dating, marriage, and divorce?
Are we not all culpable when things don’t succeed?
Is it important for society to have a couple for us to believe in love and romance? Is it to give the children hope or are the grown ups clinging to the idea too?
*Note this is not an opportunity to bash First Lady Michelle Obama. Let’s keep things adult.
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970 comments Add your comment
Poppa Grande
June 23rd, 2009
12:45 pm
abc
Frankly, I think 6 months is long enough for something positive to have happened.
Until last week, the DJIA was making a steady recovery. However, outside influences also affect us. The DJIA decline coincided with the mess over the Iranian election.
Things didn’t happen over night, and it doesn’t change over night.
It takes time to see the effects of legislation. Many of the things that he has signed haven’t even gone into effect yet. For example, the credit card thing doesn’t even go into effect until next year.
I have always felt that Clinton reaped the benefits of George HW Bush’s (Bush I) decision to go back on his promise for no new taxes. Reagan left the US in a major deficit and Bush had to do something. Bush didn’t get a second term to benefit from his decision. Clinton gets the credit for the surplus. However, George HW Bush is the one that set that in motion.
It is just an example of how it takes time to analyze the effects of particular legislation.
Jamoca
June 23rd, 2009
12:46 pm
Hello you all…
Actually I think that the Obamas are quite charming and classy as a married couple (from what I’ve seen/read). Not really trying to speculate anything conerning their relationship…heyal, I’ve got my own ish to be concerned with…
But you damn sho better have something else of substance about you if you plan on keeping him coming back
As usual, liked ^^^ that 11:21, Raqi. Very true. First time encounters with another individual only allows us to go by their physical assets (however, will not secure a vacant seat)…and not only that, we also look at how well they carry (read: conduct) themselves as well. And while I agree chemistry does play quite a role, but apparently, it’s still not enough. So what do we do? ….go looking for more (read: getting to know the person)…and I believe that is really what trumps everything else. Certain viewpoints, beliefs and whatnot having some commonality is extremely important not to mention —-> endurance. The will power and discipline to stick it out (IMO) being one of several key elements one should possess, that holds it all together. One helluva concoction right there. But sadly, more and more people these days are not so pressed to take that leap.
Btw, Dan, also liked your analogy in regards to relationships: the microwave mentality versus the the slow simmering of a good gumbo.
But they sure as heyal want first dibbs at obtaining more than what they actually put into the relationship, don’t they?…thinking a healthy relationship is simply built on easy street and good times. So all it takes is one ph.uc.k up and he/she is out?
Last I checked, it’s the trials that actually makes your bond with your SO a lot stronger (whatever they may be)….since one never really knows what they are made of until they are truly tested. Again, a few battle scars are expected to be present, for a victory well fought. I can’t understand how folks seem to think that something worth having, isn’t worth fighting for. Sounds to me…like they just didn’t want it bad enough.
lurker
June 23rd, 2009
12:47 pm
Mom and pops? 54 years 7 months….now that’s a goal for the Obamas. Although I do like them, the don’t have the monopoly on black love….there are others (couples) holding their own.
Leggs (Karyn)
June 23rd, 2009
12:51 pm
@D Dub of the MSP, formerly the ATL, honey, you need to come out of lurksville. I agree with your entire post. Well said. Especially
“….society we live in has ruined a generation of people by showing everyone that you don’t have to do much to make a lot of money. Hard work is just too hard. We all need to get off our lazy @$$es do some work for a change instead of expecting someone else to do it for you, and then complain when it’s not coming fast enough”
AmazonRed™ - Getting to my ♥ through my stomach
June 23rd, 2009
12:52 pm
Although I do like them, the don’t have the monopoly on black love….there are others (couples) holding their own
Make them a blog topic and we’ll talk about them too.
D Dub Great post. Congrats on your nuptuals.
-W8©(thoroughbred... I dont play nor hate)
June 23rd, 2009
12:54 pm
@Raqi_ I dunno I just do..lol
BLATino
June 23rd, 2009
12:54 pm
(…..walking in all MVP Puppet style rockin the #24 Jersey)
Guess who’s back n lurking
Poppa Grande
June 23rd, 2009
12:55 pm
As far as the relationship angle, I don’t really pay much attention to their relationship because it is what I’ve always seen. It was already my reality.
My parents have been married for over 45 years. I’ve seen the times where they came close to splitting and I’ve seen the times that one got sick and the other gave their all to help their spouse through sickness and health.
My parents still go out on dates after 45 years. They take trip alone. As a matter of fact, they took a trip to a Shorter Alabama today.
Each set of my grandparents were married over 50 years. I’ve always seen it. All of their relationships had different dynamics. I’ve written about one set of grandparents on here. They had a volatile relationship. They’d fight one minute and be cool with each other the next. I never SAW my parents fight at all. My other grandparents would argue over the little crap, but that is just how they communicate.
Relationships are just as different as the people who are in them.
Sure there are cases like the Edwards in real life, but there are cases like the Obamas as well.
M'
June 23rd, 2009
12:55 pm
Why would ppl spend money and time investing in an education, advanced degrees, etc…and then do something so stupid that it makes it all null and void…something so ignorant and shortsighted but now it means never being able to market those credentials for those opportunities again…the principals arrested for altering the test scores, the mother who aided the cover up of the BMW, the daughter…such a squandering of resources and blessings…so many struggle for opportunities at self-betterment and can not seem to make it break…others do it and then throw it away.
AmazonRed™ - Getting to my ♥ through my stomach
June 23rd, 2009
12:56 pm
Sure there are cases like the Edwards in real life, but there are cases like the Obamas as well.
And sometimes you get the Edwards and the Obamas all in the SAME marriage!!!
Raqi-Loving my Beautiful Ordinary Life
June 23rd, 2009
12:57 pm
Lurker that’s what I am aiming for. I imagine your parents like mine had many hills and valleys they had to travel but they stayed on that road and look where they are now. 52/7 Wow. That is 655 months. 2,836+ weeks. 19,920+ days. Do you know how many hours that is???
Jamoca
June 23rd, 2009
1:00 pm
D Dub – that was a great post!…and congrats on tying the knot!
Staceye AKA Black Mamba AKA Xiomara
June 23rd, 2009
1:01 pm
MELO…I did not have to have sex with him to think twice. He was just good looking and had a certain appeal about him that made him taller than most….kinda!
Demi
June 23rd, 2009
1:02 pm
(Frankly, I think 6 months is long enough for something positive to have happened. Can anyone name even one positive result, specific or non-specific to campaign promises made?)
Yes it has…Dems and Repubs have shown over and over again…who theyre in bed with…
Lioness…I am having one of these days:
I took a walk around the world to
ease my troubled mind
I left my body lying somewhere
in the sands of time
I watched the world float to the dark
side of the moon
I feel there’s nothing I can do
yeah
Demi
June 23rd, 2009
1:04 pm
BLATino…it will take a minute to get back into the flow of things
Dan
June 23rd, 2009
1:06 pm
@D Dub
I agree entirely with that post.
Coming from the SWATS, I felt the same way.
Maybe now going to school, trying to achieve good grades, and actually DO something in life will rub off on these young knuckleheads.
AmazonRed™ - Getting to my ♥ through my stomach
June 23rd, 2009
1:06 pm
I really do not like that “Birthday Sex” song.
Poppa Grande
June 23rd, 2009
1:07 pm
Staceye
MELO…I did not have to have sex with him to think twice.
You know Melo’s angle. Why are you trying to make him think otherwise?
Stand in DJ for Demi
June 23rd, 2009
1:09 pm
Demi- Maybe this will cheer you up (For Demi’s eyes and ears only)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaj-7BroWNY&feature=rec-HM-fresh+div
If that does not work listen to this(Everyone can Peep this one)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WlCdiU9IzA
-W8©(thoroughbred... I dont play nor hate)
June 23rd, 2009
1:10 pm
Here Demi
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WlCdiU9IzA
Kym- I don't wanna be like Cinderella!!
June 23rd, 2009
1:10 pm
Are we still on love and marriage or have we moved on.
Spoiled Lioness- Guess What?? Don't Get @ Me When I'm Not Able To Answer My Phone
June 23rd, 2009
1:11 pm
Ared- Premium Licca is the ONLY way to go
Tazzee - countdown to NFL season
June 23rd, 2009
1:11 pm
D Dub Congratulations on your marriage. Good to read you.
Tazzee - countdown to NFL season
June 23rd, 2009
1:12 pm
AmRed – premium is why I can down a few Patron margaritas with no problem. But those drink specials will mess me up!
Spoiled Lioness- Guess What?? Don't Get @ Me When I'm Not Able To Answer My Phone
June 23rd, 2009
1:12 pm
Demi- Me Too! Can’t wait to have a couple of Premium Licca drinks after work
Melo
June 23rd, 2009
1:13 pm
the principals arrested for altering the test scores, the mother who aided the cover up of the BMW
those 2 adults rank up there in foolishness.
Eileen aka Patiences of a Saint
June 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
Her face is a bit special looking though… Kind of Dr. Seus characterish.. Her facial expression are a bit rough too when she is not smiling..
I thought it was just me… Hmmm… LMAO!
Spoiled Lioness- Guess What?? Don't Get @ Me When I'm Not Able To Answer My Phone
June 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm
Suddenly I feel like I wanna break loose
Jump in my six and come and see you
Girl, I’m gonna do something that’s brand new
Umm, I got a kinky surprise for you
So girl get ready cuz I’m on my way
Put your sexy body in some negligee
And if you feel me, let me know it right now
Baby, this is how it’s all going down
There’ll be
Three knocks at the door, my baby
My trench coat hits the floor, my baby
Sit back in the chair, my baby
Cuz I’m about to go there, my baby
And get your body real open, baby
Do what you been hopin’, baby
Tonight I’m gonna pull a switcheroo
Do you mind if I strip for you?
Kym-9 days and counting.
June 23rd, 2009
1:16 pm
*sigh* Topic change anyone?
Spoiled Lioness- Guess What?? Don't Get @ Me When I'm Not Able To Answer My Phone
June 23rd, 2009
1:16 pm
Eileen- For some reason no matter WHO the person is, I tend to just have a character or animal that they resemble in my head.. No hate attached, I guess I am just silly like that..
Spoiled Lioness- Guess What?? Don't Get @ Me When I'm Not Able To Answer My Phone
June 23rd, 2009
1:17 pm
Kym- What you feel like chatting about?
-W8©(thoroughbred... I dont play nor hate)
June 23rd, 2009
1:19 pm
@kym- what’s on your mind for a new topic?
Demi
June 23rd, 2009
1:19 pm
(SexyC,why u think u put him on the bench for nearly ten years)
Are it just could be a matter of timing…or maybe time allowed both persons to grown into their own skin…I have had a few lady friends I’ve known for 4 or 5 years…tell me, the way I carry myself today…is far different than in the past.
(more to do with my character…not height though.)
Cemeeli
June 23rd, 2009
1:20 pm
Pretty wings, your…
Pretty wings Your…
Pretty wings, pretty wings around…
I like the hook on that song.
I feel good now.
-W8©(thoroughbred... I dont play nor hate)
June 23rd, 2009
1:22 pm
@Ce- I got to listen to all 3 of his cd’s that he is releasing over the next 2 years they are nice!!
Dan
June 23rd, 2009
1:23 pm
@SC and Demi
Um, after “waiting” or being “placed” on the bench for that long (1+ years) my sexual interest has dissipated. The muscles necessary to compete have atrophied (as far as she’s concerned).
She’s bout completely asexual to me
Spoiled Lioness- Why Why Why is my Blackberry still Going Off??
June 23rd, 2009
1:23 pm
Cee- Took a Nap?
Spoiled Lioness- Why Why Why is my Blackberry still Going Off??
June 23rd, 2009
1:24 pm
Is it all about sex though?
Kym-9 days and counting.
June 23rd, 2009
1:24 pm
Hmmm…I don’t know I am getting sleepy.
Sassy Me...juicy fruit AKA Victoria... :-)
June 23rd, 2009
1:25 pm
Ooohh Lioness guul don’t get it started….it’s too early in the day and too dayum hawt. I remember listening to that cd for the first time and liked to hurt sumthin
The first song had me like “Whoa”.
Hittin’ it hard from the back…roll around to the front. I know you’ve heard alot of tracks but 12 play is whatcha want. Lemme call the studio…we can go all night….girl I hope you can hang ’cause I’m horny as hell tonight…… Now I’ve gotta go listen to it……
Spoiled Lioness- Why Why Why is my Blackberry still Going Off??
June 23rd, 2009
1:27 pm
Sassy-
GIRL!!! I listen to that song every time I am in a R & B mood! That first verse is goodness gracious.. MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-W8©(thoroughbred... I dont play nor hate)
June 23rd, 2009
1:28 pm
Here is a question for everyone..What song moves you..doesnt have to be your favorite song..but what song speaks to you or has a special place in you..post the lyrics:
Poppa Grande
June 23rd, 2009
1:28 pm
Raqi
Do you know how many hours that is???
A lot!!
I’ve got 10 years in the books and trying to imagine nearly 6 times that is something.
Cemeeli
June 23rd, 2009
1:28 pm
…no song from Maxwell will beat out “Fortunate”! That song would make a three year old boy connect with his daddy on that level…
Cemeeli
June 23rd, 2009
1:29 pm
I like the one he did for Love Jones too. Sumthin’ Sumthin’….
Lawd, i feel like doing a spontaneous at Chastain!!!
-W8©(thoroughbred... I dont play nor hate)
June 23rd, 2009
1:30 pm
Wake up everybody no more sleepin in bed
No more backward thinkin time for thinkin ahead
The world has changed so very much
From what it used to be so
there is so much hatred war an’ poverty
Wake up all the teachers time to teach a new way
Maybe then they’ll listen to whatcha have to say
Cause they’re the ones who’s coming up and the world is in their hands
when you teach the children teach em the very best you can.
Chorus
The world won’t get no better if we just let it be
The world won’t get no better we gotta change it yeah, just you and me.
Wake up all the doctors make the ol’ people well
They’re the ones who suffer an’ who catch all the hell
But they don’t have so very long before the Judgement Day
So won’tcha make them happy before they pass away.
Wake up all the builders time to build a new land
I know we can do it if we all lend a hand
The only thing we have to do is put it in our mind
Surely things will work out they do it every time.
Jamoca
June 23rd, 2009
1:30 pm
…just like some of “my people”…all ya’ll wanna do is drank, eat, pawdy n’ bullish…oh and look good too. Lol
I don’t like that Birthday Sex song either…love Maxwell’s and Musiq’s new single tho…oh and Ginuwine’s.
Poppa Grande
June 23rd, 2009
1:31 pm
Cee
no song from Maxwell will beat out “Fortunate”!
Well, I’ve always liked “Till the Cops Come Knocking”. It gave me something to strive for.
Raqi-Loving my Beautiful Ordinary Life
June 23rd, 2009
1:32 pm
Congratulations DDub.
Cemeeli
June 23rd, 2009
1:32 pm
@ Lioness – No nap – I went to eat with my folks. Told you once i feel oblidged…i there. My co-worker was asking ME (single sally) to tag along cause she wanted to talk about some marriage/couple issue. And I gave her something PoppaG share with me a long time ago.
She wants to get another credit card in her name only.
Geesh…