Saturday, February 16, 2013

1st Edition


THE LAUNCH OF JUBILEE NEWS, CELEBRATED!

Jubilee News celebrated its launch and 1st edition on Saturday, February 16th at 1 p.m. It was and remains the collaborative effort of a number of gifted and talented writers and artists that responded to the vision of Editor-In-Chief & founder of WHEN MEN SPEAK, James W. Falcon, to take some decisive steps toward reconciling male-female relationships. Together they whole heartedly intend to spark a RELATIONSHIP REVOLUTION! Jubilee News is an electronic, bi-weekly newsletter by women, for women to explore the reconciliation process. It provides a unique perspective on relationships with an extraordinary sensitivity to the needs of men. Jubilee News will present fitting responses to the issues discussed in it's affiliate WHEN MEN SPEAK, the men's forum and WHEN MEN SPEAK-The Radio Edition, the bi-weekly Blog Talk (internet) Radio broadcast.

~Disclaimer~

The works, When Men Speak, When Men Speak-The Radio Edition, & Jubilee News are all the intellectual property of its founder, creator, & Editor-In-Chief, James W. Falcon. However, the submissions of all artists are expressly theirs. Jubilee News wishes to thank each artist for lending this newsletter your gifts, talents, and works. Jubilee News seeks only the best talent to convey the sometimes complicated message of reconciliation between the sexes. Your investment in the "relationship revolution" is greatly appreciated.

All requests to copy or reproduce material & information found in this newsletter nust be submitted via electronic request to the Editor-In-Chief at whenmenspeak@gmail.com.



FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It should be of great concern that the needs of men and the perception of manhood are rarely hosted by men in healthy forums. When Men Speak's purpose is to do just that...to improve the quality of relationships between men and woman through healthy, inspiring dialogue.

As a father of girls, it is extremely important to me that my daughters (and all the women in my life,) have a healthy understanding of what a man is AND is not. Jubilee News will provide the element that a great many people, that a multitude of relationships, and that scores of families lack-a balanced, sensitive perspective.

"From the perspective of a man, I feel that one of the greatest prejudices that

plague our families, our work places, and our communities, is

the misconception about masculinity."  -James W. Falcon, When Men Speak's Facebook page.



This news column will offer more than just women’s' opinions about men but rather, it will deliberately delve into the misconceptions, the prejudices, and the falsehoods that are typically propagated by women about men...and seek to set the stories straight.

Jubilee is a celebration that occurs when one is released from debt. Jubilee News will be a celebration in a similar sense as women are released from the ties that bind or prevent them from understanding the men in their lives. As When Men Speak invites men to search themselves and to articulate what's on their minds and hearts, Jubilee News' purpose will be to celebrate the positive impact that that process will have on women. It is only when men speak, can true dialogue and ultimately reconciliation, take place.

In humility & celebration,

-James





A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CO-HOST

Text the Spark Back into Your Relationship

Clear, strong communication is an essential element in any relationship. With the development of new technology, there are a variety of ways to increase communication in your relationship. I'll wager that cell phones and their text messaging capabilities have put the spark back into many relationships.

If you're like me, you can't wait to get a text message from your guy in the morning. I hate to admit it, but it's true. Even a simple "hello," a smiley face, or a "I miss you" can give me that extra boost I need to start my day. Well ladies, let's return the favor and be the first to send a text message to your man in the morning. Perhaps you want to send him a romantic text that will put a smile on his face? Or a flirtatious text that will take his breath away? Or an encouraging text that will get him through a tough day at work. Here are some examples of good morning texts that may give your relationship that extra spark:

·         May you be blessed beyond your expectations; Good Morning

·         I've been dreaming about you all night; Good Morning

·         They all want to be the sun that brightens your day, but I'd rather be the moon so I can shine on you during your darkest hour

·         A sweeter smile, a brighter day, I hope you get everything you've hoped for today

·         If nothing last forever, can I be your nothing?

·         I was wondering.....

·         Sometimes my eyes get jealous of my heart. You know why? Because you always remain close to my heart and far from my eyes

·         Ah..I forgot your name. Can I call you mine? And in case you have forgotten my name, call me yours.

·         Serious concern: I can't stop thinking of you

·         If only I could.....

·         Just for you babe: Good Morning

·         God made me because he chose you for me. My life longs for your presence.

·         If ever you get sad and in despair. You can call on me, I'll be right there.

·         It's you and me baby, here, now and forever

·         You can always call on me, together we make a great team. This is our destiny.

·         Do you believe in love at first sight....or do I have to walk by again?

·         There's a gap in your life. Do you mind if I fill it?

-by LaVerna Saunders,

Co-host, When Men Speak-The Radio Edition



MAIN STREET

Welcome to Main Street. In this section, Jubilee News presents it's featured article. A heavy hitting, thought provoking, no nonsense post designed to elicit a response from the reader. From devil's advocate to heaven's hope, this section should prompt readers to ask themselves questions like, "Is this really true?" "Do I do that?" Or, "have I contributed to that mindset." In the end, the information begs a gathering of close friends or at least a phone call to a best friend for discussion. Jubilee News presents:


Misandry to Meaningful: A Road Map to Healthy Male-Female Relationships

I wrote this article nearly three years as a cry for help...a cry for understanding. I was made painfully aware of a dynamic that at first, I thought I was only imagining. But after reality set in...and I mean, really set in...I wanted desperately to be awakened from a nightmare that never seemed to end. My own relationships with women were crumbling and I needed to "run a diagnostic" on them to find the problem and to resolve them as soon as possible. So, I began a search, a hunt for answers, for explanations, for words and phrases to help me articulate my feelings. I examined myself, in excruciating detail. And I sought the help of licensed counselors to help me sort out my feelings. I longed for understanding of the surface and the deeper issues that destroy male-female relationships. And...in the course of this investigative process, I discovered many, eye opening things about myself and others. And one of those things was the concept-the word-Misandry.

I thought it only fitting to begin this new venture-this celebratory news column with an ending-the end of my search which enabled me to have a change of heart toward woman. Hopefully, as this work progresses, women might experience a change of heart toward men and healthy relationships will result...no!...a relationship revolution can begin in our hearts and homes. Read the article I blogged below and ask yourself the question: has this applied to me in any way, at any point in time. And if so, follow Men When Speak so that we explore the possibilities of change with you.



From the Misandry 5 part series started in December, 2010.

"Over the past 10 years I have come to grips with the fact that there is a very real prejudice that exists. It's not the oh so familiar financial or class prejudice that many of us who were not born "in money" have experienced. It's not racial prejudice. But it is a prejudice against masculinity. And it wasn't until this weekend that I even realized that there is a word for it...and it's called misandry, or as the encyclopedia sources I referenced denoted, a hatred of boys or men. Yeah, that's it. Not a bias. Not an avoidance but a real hatred. I've felt it. In college during discussions with my peers. I've felt it in the circles that I have traveled as a parent. I've felt it in the workplace when I've been told that the positions I've sought are not typically given to men because men aren't as administratively inclined as women. Really? And I've felt it in many other social settings as well.

It starts out as what I describe as an avoidance. And oh, God help you if you, as a man, are educated and somewhat articulate. Then the reaction is, "oh, he speaks!" As if we were just an ornament incapable of emotion and or intelligence. I use to think it was because of my height (I'm 6'3"). I use to think I it was because of my weight (I'm 270 lbs). And I used to think it was because I am an African-American (a dark skinned brother at that). But then I realized that my earlier experiences were with other African-Americans. And finally, I had no choice but to conclude that it was because I was a man and because the settings where these feelings were at their peak were always when I was in the company of women-African-American or other.



I will be the first to tell you that I know we men have not been the best in terms of relationships. I will also be honest enough with this blog audience to admit that men have played the fact that there are many more women than men to our favor. But I will also be the first to say that not all of us are dogs, animals, mindless, sex craved machines! No, not all of us. But for the majority-the few of us that at least try to be wholesome-seem to find ourselves perpetually climbing up the rough side of the mountain. I find that woman are always looking at me with one eyebrow cocked as if to say, "it's a full moon and he is bound to show his true colors shortly." While I know that we men have been the cause of a lot of hurt, a lot of pain and a heck of a lot of sleepless nights, why should every man following a woman's bad experience with a man, have to pay for it? Please!!! Someone help me understand this phenomenon before I lose my mind! Thank you."

Your comments, questions, and feedback are always welcomed! Please post to this blog OR please feel free to email me directly at whenmenspeak@gmail.com.



Sincerely & appreciatively yours,



-James W. Falcon

Daddy of 5 Daughters,

"Pop-Pop" to 1 Granddaughter & 3 Grandsons,

Founder, When Men Speak,

Founder & Co-host, When Men Speak, The Radio Edition

Editor-In-Chief, Jubilee News,

Author of When Men Speak: A step to reconciliation between men & women.



ARTIST'S CORNER I

The Artists' Corner is the section of the newsletter devoted entirely to those expressive women who have submitted their work to Jubilee News for the uplift of all. Enjoy!

APOLOGY

I don’t mean to crush your Spirit

With the wiles of my words

We are two Christians, not the same

My brother, have you heard?

That Jesus has a task for you

He’s calling your name; don’t die

Humble yourself and take up your cross

His will you can’t deny

STOP

Fighting me and recognize

The battle that you fight

The devil is hot on our trails

In the Lord you must delight

The prayers of the saints

Have paved the way

For you to make it through

I am a Christian

Who loves the Lord

But I have struggles too.

I am no better than any man

Who’s saved and sanctified

He’s blessed me with a multitude of gifts

And now I must go forth

To use and not be abused

To pray rather than be preyed upon

No longer to embrace

The lust and pestilence

Of weakened flesh and hardened

Hearts

Of worldliness, carnality

Of angry words, frivolity

The shouts, the cries

The pleas, replies

The wasted time and falsified hope

The inconsistencies

Those domineering ways

Go North, Fly East

Where’s the peace

Of mind

Don’t take my mind

Away

From my duty

My blessing

My calling

We are two Christians, not the same

My brother, have you heard

Choose ye this day

Whom you will serve

Sanctity or pornography

His healing balm or alcohol

In Jesus’ name or a basketball game

PRAYER or that booty over there

Shoot the breeze with the guys

Or God’s prize

Make no mistake

I am a gift

And in no way to reckon with

Filled with the power

As precious as

A

FLOWER

Copyright 2002, Written by God’s Precious Flower (GPF)

God's Precious Flower (GPF) is a visual artist, dancer, writer & poet who's passion preceeds her. She's a southerner at heart with old fashioned values, lady-like poise and a heart of gold. Join me in thanking GPF for her contribution to Jubilee News.

THE FUNNY BONE

"The Funny Bone" is Jubilee News' comic strip. Because we value love AND laughter, check out the posts below and...get your laugh on!

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One day, a woman walked into a dental office and asked how much it would cost to extract wisdom teeth.

“A bag of gold,” the dentist replied.

“That’s ridiculous,” the woman said. “Isn’t there a cheaper way?”

“Well,” the dentist said, “if you don’t use an anesthetic, I will charge you only half a bag of gold.”

“That’s still too expensive,” the woman huffed.

“OK,” responded the dentist. “If we forgo the anesthesia and simply pull the teeth with pliers, I can knock the price to a quarter pound of gold.”

“No-o-o,” groaned the woman. “It’s still too much.”

“Well,” said the dentist, scratching his head, “I could find a dental student to do it for 15 bucks.”

“Awesome!” said the woman. “Book my husband for next Friday.”


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Once upon a time, a beautiful, independent, self assured princess happened upon a frog in a pond. The frog said to the princess,

"I was once a handsome prince until an evil witch put a spell on me. One kiss from you and I will turn back into a prince and then we can marry, move into the castle with my mom, and you can prepare my meals, clean my clothes, bear my children and forever feel happy doing so."

That night, while the princess dined on frog legs, she kept laughing and saying, "I don't think so."


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A Kansas cyclone hit a farmhouse just before dawn one morning. It lifted the roof off, picked up the beds on which the farmer and his wife slept, and set them down gently in the next county.

The wife began to cry.

"Don't be scared, Mary," her husband said. "We're not hurt."

Mary continued to cry.

"I'm not scared," she responded between sobs.

"I'm happy 'cause this is the first time in 14 years we've been out together."




ARTIST'S CORNER II

The Artist's Corner is the section of the newsletter devoted entirely to those expressive women who have submitted their work to Jubilee News for the uplifting of all. Enjoy!



SUBCONSCIOUS THOUGHT OF A BLACK MAN

Had it rough
Had it tough
Skin is dark
Guilty as charged

Daily fight
To get it right
But society doesn’t see me

Feet feel heavy
Legs are week
Mind is tired
But freedom I seek
Bruised and scarred in America

Speaking loud
No one hears
Can’t cry now
Men don’t shed tears
Just trying to make it
Not sure I can take it

Feeling like a slave
In 2013
Black man down
No report is made
Murderer walks
No one gives it a thought

Gotta go to work
But these streets are mean
Not from junkies,
But the protected blue team
Lord, I’m just trying to make it.

-by MJD


MJD is a native of New Jersey who possesses a unique perspective on life, love, & relationships. MJD credits her principles and values to the unyielding influence of her Mother & Father and others she had in her upbringing. In addition to poetry, she is a culinary wizard and business owner. Join me in expressing my sincerest appreciation to MJD for contribution to Jubilee News.



THE DADDY PAGES

How important is it for a little girl to have her father in her life? Is a father's presence that important? What are the benefits of having a solid connection with your Dad? Ladies, follow a fictional character named Blossom as she grapples with these topics in her growth and development from childhood to womanhood in each biweekly addition of Jubilee News. Jubilee News is proud to present the work of a Baltimore native; artist-author, Jai-ree.



THE DADDY PAGES



I started when I was 8 years old. And now, 32 years later, I have several stacks of them-boxes of them even. Diaries I mean. Not sure how or why I began chronicling my life but…I did-in painful detail. It’s interesting because I could have chosen to have written on any topic or subject matter. But instead I chose only one-my Daddy. He has been the central figure in my life for years now. Not that there is anything wrong with my Mom or my relationship with my Mom. But I have come to realize that my Dad has been the most influential figure in my life. It’s not that he was a perfect man or role model. Nor did I regard him as ever being faultless. But my interactions with him have set the tone for so many things. And how I expect to be treated as a woman has all been shaped by my Dad.

(flashback to age 6)

I was so excited! I couldn’t wait for him to get home from work. I spent several hours setting the table with all the pieces of my tea set. The napkins were folded just right. My pretend danishes were still cool and my make believe tea was piping hot. I started getting ready as soon as my homework was done. This was a major even in the life of a 6 year old. A tea party. And the guest…the one for whom all of the preparation was for? My Dad, of course.

As I anxiously awaited his arrival home from work, I sat patiently in the basement for him. I ran to my chair after I heard his car pull in on the parking pad. I could hear him go up the steps of the deck out back, stick his key in the backdoor, and push his way in. I could hear him go through each of the steps of his “coming ritual.” He first searched for his beloved Wife-my Mom. He had to find her, greet and kiss her, before he could hang up his coat and hat and set his briefcase down. Apparently, my Mom was anxious to see Daddy as I was. After a few minutes of laughter, giggles, and smooches, I could hear my Daddy say, “I’ll be back Beautiful.” Beautiful. Yup, that was the name my Daddy called my Mom. Every chance he got. As a matter of fact, I rarely remember him calling my Mom by her real name. Instead, it was always, “Beautiful.” Daddy would always take time to pronounce every letter when he said it, too. It was like he couldn’t wait to say it. But once he did, he always seemed to say it slowly and with a great deal of meaning as if he was saying it to my Mom for the very first time. And Mom? She would melt each time he did. They seem to really work well together-my Mom& Dad. And it was evident in even the smallest aspects of our family.

I was hoping Daddy was not too tired from work to spend time with me. Sometimes, it seems like he just barely makes it home on Mondays and Tuesdays. But this was Wednesday…so let’s see how it goes. This is really important to me. I want him to see the amount of work I put into setting this up. I want him to notice all the details. And I especially want him to compliment me on my dress. I had to get special permission from Mom to wear this today. Normally, I can only wear it for Sunday or for a special program at church but Mom said it was O.K. so long as I didn’t spill any pretend tea on it.

I can hear Daddy coming down the basement steps and my little heart feels as if it is about to jump out of my chest! As soon as he rounds the corner, I look into his eyes and…and...I noticed he is wearing a very tired look on his face. That’s it! He doesn’t want to play. I can tell. He’s had a long day and he will probably kiss me on the forehead, tell me how “nice” everything is, and apologize that he is too tired to play and go back upstairs. I just know it-I can feel it. But doesn’t he care that this important to me? Momma always reminds me that Daddy is a manager on his job and is in charge of 94 people that consistently bug him to do stuff all the time. But…this time…I’m hoping he has time for a 95th person-me, his Princess Daughter I thought.

Daddy sits down at the place, I prepared for him. He looks intently into my eyes. He reaches over and grabs my hands and…and…his stoic, emotionless, fatigued facial expression…suddenly…but very slowly changes. And before I know it, Daddy is clapping his hands and is wearing the biggest smile possible on his face.

And he says, “Baby girl-” cause that what he calls me when he is really excited.

“Baby girl! I absolutely love it!”

“Thank you,” as he claps his huge hands like a preschooler. And he gently grabs my hand and pulls me over and into his lap where he gives me the biggest hug ever!

“Thank you Baby Girl!” You did a lovely job setting the table. And you folded the napkins perfectly! And wow! Look at your beautiful dress” as he pulls away from me just enough to get a good long look at my dress.

“I just love your earrings, too. They match your dress wonderfully.”

That day, I don’t know what was more exciting: the fact that I knew my Dad was dog tired but made time to be attentive to his Princess or the fact that I heard him say all of the wonderful things he said to me to my Mom many times before. In either case, it was-without a doubt-one of the happiest days of life.

Join us in the next edition of Jubilee News for more of THE DADDY PAGES.


TIPS

This section offers a variety of tips to aid in the enhancement of your relationships with the men in your lives. From the practical to the poetic, this section is filled with the kind of ageless, priceless advice like that Momma use to give us.


Your Household Cleansers May Be Toxic To You AND Your Relationship With Your Man

I t's tragic, but true some of the everyday household cleansers that you and I use may contain toxins that are harmful to the body. According to a report from the University Of California Berkley and the Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, some of the cleaning products used indoors are exposing occupants to chemicals that lead to health risks. The report goes on to say that a chemical called terepins used to give cleansers their scent can produce toxic compounds including formaldehyde. And the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified formaldehyde as a probable human carcinogen. Some of these cleansers use natural products that in and of themselves can be used to safely and effectively clean your home. I'll bet that most of you already have these products in your cupboard right now. Take a look at the top three and you'll be surprised at what they can clean:

1.      Baking Soda

·         Microwaves

·         Clothing

·         Refrigerators

·         Bathroom floors

·         Trash cans

·         Walls

·         Carpets

2. Lemons

·         Toilets

·         Bathtubs

·         Chrome faucets

·         Garbage disposals

·         Dishes

·         Windows

·         Pots and pans

·         Countertops

·         Storage containers

3. Vinegar

·         Hardwood floors

·         Coffee makers

·         Clothing stains

·         Showerheads

·         Mirrors

·         Appliances

·         Mini blinds

·         Cloudy glassware

Additionally, how a woman keeps her home is vital to a man's opinion of her and of their relationship. I know it may seem too old fashion and overly stereotypic, but Hubpages author "blessedmommy" sites this as number 88 on the list of "101 Ways To Tell Your Husband "I Love You." I am sure we would all agree that clutter is not conducive to relaxation or to romance. So, let be aware of potential elevating levels of toxicity so we can enjoy a healthy home and a happy relationship.

Thank you.


Sincerely yours,


LaVerna Saunders

Co-Host, When Men Speak-The Radio Edition


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That concludes this edition of Jubilee News-A WHEN MEN SPEAK Publication. Join us for the next edition and updates.  We thank you for your time. We look forward to your continued partnership as we fully intend to...spark a relationship revolution!!!  You made us popular.  Now, it's our turn to make you proud.  Take care in your travels.