This piece was written at the conclusion of the 2000 Presidential election. Those who had seemingly expressed their acceptance of the hatred that was consuming America had reached a rolling boil and was set to erupt. All in anticipation of an election result that would declare that 45 had won a second term."Your Fire Too High" is a depiction of what was occurring and what was necessary to abate the movement that was confronting America during that time.We were fortunate on that day, 28 months ago. Undoubtedly, on the day of the presidential election, some of those that appeared at the polls to cast their votes had a change of heart and decided that this experiment called democracy was worthy of continuing. So, they stepped into the ballot booth and voted for the person that more closely represented their idea of the America that was intended.I was not of the belief that the fever that was prevalent was miraculously broken. Nor do I now believe that the malady that continues to inflict many and seeks to relegate certain segments of society to times past has been eradicated.That day, however, could go down in history as the day that Americans actually LISTENED to what was being adamantly stated and inferred by those seeking to hold the highest office in the land. No, I do not wholly believe that their change in thinking was due to an act of altruism. Instead, it is my contention that a number of rational individuals realized that those things that were being propagated and carefully plotted were also designed to return them to a time when their individual freedoms would also be threatened and greatly limited.My regret is that those who coalesced and breathed that fateful sigh did not blow hard enough to fully extinguish the raging fire of hatred and non-acceptance that is presently furiously engulfing the land.I pray the proselytization efforts by those advocating hatred is an abject failure and that the hearts of those who have been previously indoctrinated are touched by a tremendous move of the HOLY SPIRIT.OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

The lessons taught and learned "Along the Way"are too numerous to capture in one short piece.  Lessons are oftentimes thought to be only dispensed by parents, teachers and others who possess positions of authority within one's life. I ruminated on this piece after it was composed.It led me to consider the number of things that I observed throughout my childhood and into my teenage years. Throughout this time, as I recall, I never had the opportunity to witness any adult male within my family, or closely associated with me, shed tears, of joy or sorrow.Within my community crying was looked upon as a sign of weakness-setting oneself up to be taken advantage of because of one's "softness". This way of thinking, as I remember, was prevalent throughout my community. And by community, I mean within homes, schools, churches and every other place that one commonly associates with community.I wonder now how the ill-effects of this failure to show true emotion has negatively affected millions and millions of people , primarily BLACK MEN, along the way.I ask, myself. "is it yet another remnant of the whip" that has been allowed to perpetually manifest throughout our community?Am I unintentionally perpetuating this way of thinking?What about you-what "wrong-headed" ways of thinking are you unintentionally passing on to your child?0UR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

62 and GOD IS INDEED GOOD!!!It's my birthday--the BIG 6-0. As the years have flown by I find myself taking note of the things that I can no longer do--AS WELL. However, I also find myself able to do things with more proficiency and with less effort. The journey of life is indeed something that I give honor to GOD for on a daily basis. I continue to thank him for his mercies and grace that are fresh and new each and every day.My prayer is that we ALL take note of this special gift and the numerous memories that we have to enjoy as we travel along this journey.ENJOY this piece as you take note of the change for which we are thankful...PEACE!!!

Another piece written while vacationing and looking out over the hustle and bustle of persons going about their daily lives in Bangkok, Thailand.  In this city of 12 million, it seems that there are 24 million cars, motorcycles and  vespas. Each, transporting individuals with independent lives along multitudinous paths-in search of "that thing" that constitutes happiness. I marvel at the sheer thought that despite differing ways and concepts regarding living- it seems we all oftentimes remain  in search and possess a constant desire to remain in control."Aye, Aye"is a piece that seeks to  capture one's thinking regarding the CAPTAIN of one's ship and how our internal man/woman persistently seeks to remain in control. Despite the turmoil that occurs, irrespective of the choices at the various junctures within our lives, we, if not committed to "giving it over to GOD", are destined for incompleteness or failure.  While simultaneously, casting those who travel along side us, daily, into the abyss of insignificance.This plays out in all facets of life whether the events are deemed of paramount importance or innocuous. We must acknowledge each.OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!***While attending the B1G Tournament this week I made an earnest attempt to greet each individual that approached me with sincerity and an openess to hear their personal stories regarding their versions of stories that oftentimes centered around my personal journey. I am THANKFUL that we shared and continue to share space on this rapidly moving wheel.

This piece was composed while sitting on the 4th floor balcony of a hotel in Thailand. I was overwhelmed by what I was reading and seeing on all the social media platforms regarding a reprehensible beating inflicted by those of the Memphis Police department. Many were providing their rationale as to why African Americans should not read the articles nor view the camera footage of what occurred. Concurrently, just as many were stating their rationale as to why it was incumbent upon the entirety of society to view the footage. I decided to view the footage. I WAS ABSOLUTELY APPALLED by what I viewed!!A group of police officers beating Tyre Nichols...to death!!This young man, when realizing what was occurring to him screamed for the one person, that throughout our lives, we have been conditioned to believe will protect us..."Ma-muuhh"is a piece that is in recognition of the fear that was being experienced by Tyre during his senseless and brutal beating. Additionally, it is an attempt to put into words the tremendous pain and long-term suffering that is inflicted upon the thousands of mothers who have had to endure that which is unnatural....THE BURYING of one's child.Our society in some way has hardened its hearts towards those who have experienced this pain. Whether the perpetrators are the police or, "yea, that one who grew up in the house with the purple doors right next to you (COLOR CODED)", the grief is the same.Such grief is not something that one's acts of pride, cowardice, and selfishness should wantonly and callously inflict upon another...EVER!!It is my prayer that the Spirit of Jehovah Shalom embrace all who have been left to endure such grief and that there is imminent healing within our land!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

God has blessed Marjorie and I to be able to travel to a number of countries throughout the world (moreso her than I). In various countries we have witnessed the day-to-day living of the inhabitants of the countries visited.During our most recent travels we had the opportunity to witness the hustle and bustle of Hanoi in North Vietnam.  the laid-back city of Hue, located along the Huong River, in central Vietnam-just 5 miles from the South China Sea, and the difference in the politics of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)., located in South Vietnam.We were also blessed to be able to visit Cambodia. This is where I was filled with an intense desire to document what I was seeing as juxtaposed to what I live and observe as an American."Lessons From Ton Le Sap"was inspired by our travels up and down a portion of Ton Le Sap Lake. There we witnessed the indigenous people go about their daily lives that consisted mostly of fishing. In fact, it seemed that their entire existence was dependent on Ton Le Sap. This was ultimately conveyed to us by our tour guide. There was a difference in their manner of living that was quickly observed and highlighted. We were told of the level of cooperation that exists among those we encountered.  For example, the individual harvests of fish are combined and picked up daily by a local company without contentiousness over the amount of one's contribution. Children piloted boats up and down the lake delivering classmates to and from school. Floating homes were anchored in spaces that are individually owned, but there seemed to be no easily identifiable markings that separated the adjacent homes. The natives of Ton Le Sap are living in a community that is predicated on cooperation among the group. If one's boat is larger and creates a bigger wake, then the pilot of the larger boat willingly pilots his or her boat to the side, slowing down to allow the smaller vessel to proceed. This, all done without the use of verbal communication or horns.It was simply inspirational observing the level of cooperation and the level of community. It led me to think about what would be possible within OUR community(ies), the nation, if the same level of "village" think were prevalent in America.I pose a question at the end of this piece. Ruminate on its' words!Personally, I am left to wonder and remain HOPEFUL!!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

Mid -week Post!!!I am a firm believer that there is NO coincidence with Christ.This piece was penned at the outset of the journey that is now Slater Hayes, Productions.I was scrolling through my Facebook page and came across a post from a man whom I consider a great father, inspiration, community advocate, believer in our youth. In general a person that personifies the mantra of my church..." I was created to make something or SOMEONE better"His name Maurice "Mo" Howard.  Mo, as he is known by many, is a Maryland Terp basketball legend and matriculated prior to my arrival. He is a gentleman with whom I communicate quite frequently, via DM. His recent post that states that one does not need vision to see parallels a piece that I entitled "Vision" I originally planned to publish this piece on February 26, 2023. I felt that I had to post it now because it is apparent to me that the message contained within Mo's post and "Vision" is a message that must be conveyed immediately in order to reach those that are in need of the inspiration contained within it. Thank you Mo' for provoking me to publish this piece at this specific time.Thank you for ALL you do!!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

I decided to republish this piece to kick off the start of Season 3 of "The Spoken Word. Slater Hayes, Productions has grown immensely since its' beginning two years ago.My desire to inspire, educate, expand horizons, increase self-awareness and to free US ALL from the constrained thinking created by the ill-effects of racism, classism and the other prevalent 'ISMS continues by the GRACE of GOD.OUR GOD, who has deemed this vision a useful tool in the furtherance of HIS KINGDOM.HE is guiding me along this journey and is now exposing me to new opportunities, forming new relationships and solidifying others.Hip -hop legend and renowned producer Keith Shocklee/Wizard K-Jee (Public Enemy, Bomb Squad) will be lending his immense talent by collaborating with Slater Hayes, Productions, Altavoz Entertainment and Black Dollar Entertainment in seeking to ensure that the dynamic message of The Spoken Word fall upon the ears of a wider demographic audience.I look forward to whatever else that GOD has in store...for I know that without HIM none of this would have been possible.For those who did not experience the beginning of this journey, join me as I revisit some of my earlier pieces."Sam, Didn't Say When"is a piece that highlights anticipation, hope and fortitude...those things that GOD provides-irrespective of the circumstance. Lift me in prayer as I continue to TRUST GOD along this exciting journey.AMEN!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!***Republish------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------As the years keep rolling by, we as a people still find ourselves in  "hold" mode.We can pretend as if the actions, or lack thereof, of persons in positions of authority have no direct impact on our lives or the lives of those to whom we aspire to take up the mantle of our rich heritage.The lyrics " we shall overcome"  continue to drip eloquently from the mouths of those who have seen the arc continue to bend. Thus, shattering the past practices of our oppressors and those who benefit from their practices due to the tacit approval conveyed through uninvolvement-inaction. There are those of us who feel change is not occurring rapidly enough. And, unfortunately, there are also those among us who actually thought  we had  arrived.  To their chagrin, they are now  experiencing  some of the not- so- subtle machinations of a system that aspires to return us to times of torment and injustice."Sam, Didn't Say When "is my way of recognizing those who have been and remain in the struggle- waiting on the corner-for that transport promised by the soulful lyricist, and many before him, YEARS AGO. Despite being perpetually stuck in a holding pattern, the will and determination of my people has not waned. Instead, we continue to gather- my people-representing all walks of life-intent on boarding  that bus that will deliver us to that place where those things hoped for can  become fully manifest.Let us remain vigilant and prayerful that Sam's words were a prophecy soon to come to fruition.OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!PEACE!!!

During this month of Black History, I think it important that we seek a better understanding of a mindset that is becoming more and more pervasive within OUR community.That of which I speak is the notion that we are SELF-MADE individuals that can traverse this journey without anyone else providing anything necessary for the ride. This mindset seems s to be intentionally propagated within our community in order to further the levels of emotional and economic distress that are becoming more and more prevalent.It is now easy to identify one who possess an unwillingness or reticence to provide assistance to that neighbor, relative or friend- deeming them "always in need of a handout".    Expressing that belief publicly was previously viewed as anathema within the Black community. It seems that the mantra "It Takes a Village" has been thrown overboard. This piece "Word Power" was written when it seemed as though I was being inundated by persons who were effusive in their belief that what they attained, or were in the process of attaining, was solely due to their individual efforts. Yes, success oftentimes hinges on the amount of personal effort and commitment devoted to a specific desire or goal. However, one should never be deluded into thinking that one succeeds entirely due to individual effort. Regrettably, the entire concept of "the village" may be becoming a thing of the past.OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

Well, what we have oftentimes attributed to the white man has now found its' way into the public arena within our community. The OPPRESSED have now publicly demonstrated that we have indeed become willing instruments of the OPPRESSOR.Sure, we can point to periods throughout the annals of time that the black man has utilized force and other manners of brutality to exercise control over our own. However, there always appeared to be an  extrinsic reward that was proffered in return for our callous behavior toward one another.In the matter concerning the Memphis Police Officers there appears to be no reward other than an intrinsic desire to inflict harm upon another. Some have speculated and conjectured that something other than what we verifiably know has to be a part of the equation that led to the brutal, and mob style beating that was inflicted on the young brother, Tyre Nichols. Only time and the continuing investigation of all concerned will adequately address those things."Round and Round"is a piece that was not composed in the aftermath of the heinous act perpetrated in Memphis. In fact, I held back this piece as in order to share it during the celebration of Black History Month. However, I do not think that there is a better time to share it than NOW. This is a piece that expresses how we as BLACK MEN have an obligation to demonstrate LOVE and RESPECT for ourselves and EACH OTHER.Absent of those two factors, LOVE and RESPECT, we will continue to experience a culture that repeatedly finds US in the position of victimization that is inflicted by THE SYSTEM, but even more sadly, BY EACH OTHER.It is incumbent upon US to demonstrate better through our actions.OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

Critical Race Theory, Loving, Voting Rights, Affirmative Action...all these and many more are now under scrutiny. There are those that accuse me of tripping, of simply being the purveyor of hyperbole. I think many, if paying attention, now see that the movement inspired by 45 has now become reality, due primarily to the judicial picks that were ramrodded through by the person occupying the seat of senate majority leader during his term.The Dodd decision that determined that an uncodified Roe was unconstitutional is a precursor to years old decisions being brought back before the court with the probability of being overturned. This was something that was never before imagined. However, this current group of conservative justices is delivering a less than subtle message... STARE DECISIS be damned!!"Oz Revealed"is a piece that was written that highlights a few of the sacred private parts of life that are at risk of being dramatically changed. If anyone remembers, when ToTo pulled back the curtain and exposed Oz, it humbled him and brought him to the point of being willing to CHANGE. Unfortunately, this current MISCHIEF seems to crave the light -the exposure. Their actions are providing substance and fuel to a fire that is at imminent risk of burning out of control.  Thus, further perpetuating the actions of those whose mindsets are engulfed with an insatiable desire to purposely impose their wills on all those who are not similarly aligned.I pray that the FEVER SOON BREAKS OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

Whether it be within neighborhood communities, the Capitol or the Halls of Congress, the trickeration of those who are seeking to hijack this experiment called democracy is real.The sycophants have all exposed themselves and are hell-bent on maintaining their visibility and continuing in their craven desire to circumvent the will of the people, irrespective of the damage that it may create."Hiding No More"is my way of calling them out. My way of letting them know that i am not deluded as to their intent regardless of their manner of dress.Wake up America (Read as decent white folks) ...for you too shall become victims-collateral damage to those whose aspirational dreams do not include you in their visions of amerikkka.And you know if they care LESS THAN A DAMN about you and your plight then WE ...WELLL!!!***#ishallnotbebamboozlednorhoodwinkedOUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

On this special day that we remember Martin Luther King, Jr.  I think it important that we also pay homage to one of the numerous icons on whose shoulders that he, and so many others, firmly entrenched their footing.Frederick Douglas!!"Mad Respect"was written as a tribute to this man who voraciously ensured that the content of his eloquent messages was heard throughout a nation that considered his kind only three-fifth's human.  His grace enamored many. But more importantly, his commitment to the cause of his people was instrumental in changing the mindset of a nation. For certain, he hardened the hearts of just as many, However, that did not deter him from gracing stages, occupying minds, with a message that resounds throughout the land...even today.So, when listening to one of the numerous orators of today...remember ...OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

It seems that during this particular juncture of my journey, I have become more sensitive to those things that occurred, at times, along the way. I am not one of those persons that has a vivid recall of a variety of things that occurred during my childhood. However, I do seem to remember things if someoe else either begins to play them out from their stored memories.However, the incident that I speak of in this episode..."Free My Mind"seems to be eternally memorialized within the recesses of my mind  because of the SHEER HATRED that spewed from the mouth of that white man at us... INNOCENT and small BLACK children.I see his face, vividly. The wrinkles, the greasy silver and and white hair, the dirty jeans. I see him sniffing as a dog...I remember his words... "I knew I smelled som'-that's them STANKY NIGGERS"...yes, I remember EVERY SYLLABLE!I think of that time...often.  I am now prayerful that recalling this episode in time will somehow give it the freedom it needs to depart that space that it has occupied in my mind for over 50 years-RENT FREE!! We never know what others have endured...what event is part of the TRIFECTA of what "was", what is being encountered during this time of what "is", and what awaits one to dip one's toe so that it may become part of one's "to be".However, we can play our part in seeking to ensure that the memories of a specific point in time of one's life is filled with as MANY PLEASANTRIES that an individual can stand!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

"That place where emotions are stored- unable to be reconciled with what is occurring just past that place that is visible to the naked eye...past that place that is actually tangible by ones' s self or observable by others."A further description of that which I felt when I was led to write..."The Question"...there is often a certain consternation that exists-questions that arise -when one is unable to definitively attach explanations to certain emotions that occur that are seemingly unexplainable...even within our mind. From the onset of this New Year, 2023, let us all try something new!!Free your mind and travel along this journey, with me, and the numerous others with whom you interact on a daily basis, if only briefly.Allow yourself to REALLY ACTIVELY LISTEN and FEEL what is being shared with you...during each and every interaction. You may be that listening ear that is TRULY needed. Or you may become the beneficiary of that impetus that was needed to assist you in addressing that issue that you deemed critical prior to starting YOUR NEW JOURNEY!!It is a NEW YEAR! Allow those emotions-that creativity- that has been locked away to be freed.  Marvelous possibilities, tremendous opportunities await you!!Allow your mind to be opened to the creativity and myriad perspectives that are contained within this singular piece and the numerous others that have been published by SLATER HAYES, PRODUCTIONS. ***HAPPY NEW YEAR***OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

***REPUBLISHThe celebration of Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching. Though I penned this piece during our Thanksgiving gathering of 2021, it was published during the Easter season of 2022.  Prior to the funeral service of my dear cousin, Edith.The words and sentiment contained within this piece are timeless.I pray that each listener will recall the precious memories of family gatherings and the love that was exuded during those times.Now, go and share the love, as you and yours revel in "The Noises of Love"***BTW...we are getting together again as family this Thanksgiving...yaaayyyyy!!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I penned this piece at the time of our last family reunion during the 2021 Thanksgiving season. The importance of familial relationships is undeniable. The resurrection of familial relationships is just as important.  The celebration of this Easter Season, I feel, is a very apropos time for the publication of this piece I entitled..."The Noises of Love" is a testimony of the joy, love and spirit of closeness that is demonstrated when family members get together under the banner of family.I have come to realize that relationship, especially with family members, is something that needs to be willfully and carefully nurtured even though there is a sharing of the same blood and upbringing. I assume my share of the responsibility for failing to nurture those relationships with my sisters, brother and the numerous nephews, nieces, cousins...ALL those with whom I share DNA.  More importantly, the past memories that helped to mold us should be the impetus for us continuing to desire to establish moments that create those special memories that are revisited each time we get together.Regrettably, most of those times are at the loss of a beloved family member. Unfortunately, the loss of my dear cousin, Edith, will, undoubtedly, be the next time where family will gather.  Past stories will be re-told and revised, memories that create joyous laughter reshared and recollections of her sweet spirit will be recounted. On this day of RESURRECTION, and the day of her pending burial, let us be mindful of those relationships that are in need of being restored through the conscious decisions we make to breathe fresh life into each.LET ME START HERE...I LOVE YOU ALL and there is NO-THING that I am not willing to do in order to breathe life into our relationship(s).OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!PEACE!!

There are numerous occurrences within the Bible that speak to how numerous individuals and groups of people literally looked up to acknowledge that they were aware that their help emanated from someplace-SOMEONE- that far exceeded their human abilities to adequately confront the obstacle(s) with which they were confronted.This act of literally and figuratively calling on and acquiescing to the presence of that SOMEONE, GOD, did not end with the characters of the bible. I oftentimes find myself staring into space when confronted with issues. Sometimes it could be attributed to a learned behavior. However, more often than not, I can attribute it to the inherent nature that is within all of us."Look Up"is the end result of words that flowed from me at a time when, after they were written, I became aware that I was looking up-talking to my GOD. A time when I was totally oblivious to what was occurring around me and totally unaware that this piece was being composed.I encourage you, the listener, to take note of those times when you may find yourself "looking up". After becoming aware that you were/are engaged in that act, PAUSE, and give honor to whom ALL HONOR is due. Give praise and express thanks to GOD for being a very present help at all times, not simply in times of need.*** May your Christmas Season be filled with JOY and PEACE!!! OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

"Unabridged": not cut or shortened;COMPLETE. Just as with any phrase or sentence, the punctuation that is used is helpful in determining  the meaning of what is written preceding its use. In fact, it even plays a role in the voice inflection of  the reader. While reminiscing about the times past during the journey of "your dash", ask yourself the following, " what manner of punctuation should I use in seeking to describe a specific period in time?"Personally, I found it quite interesting  and very enlightening. So, as you  ruminate on this episode and reflect on times past,  take pause(that would be a comma), and consider the punctuation that will be used as you presently confront the circumstances of the day.As for me, my author has a way of provoking me with the punctuation that HE uses, for HIS edition of my story is indeed... "Unabridged"and he grants me mercy and grace, with each new page, each new chapter, in order to continue on the path HE directs.No, there is no way that I can change the past punctuation(s). However, I can indeed learn from each period of time and seek to ensure that the punctuation  to be used in the future will appropriately capture my selfless desire to live out the mantra..." I was created to make something or SOMEONE better!"OUR SPRIT LIVES!!PEACE!!

Innumerable opinions and justifications (read as excuses) for a lack of involvement inundate that place to which I refer in this piece that was inspired by speaking to friends, listening to neighbors and the panoply of overbearing pontificators that have found their way on to various networks. I envisioned myself as that coach nervously approaching each, wondering if they were indeed ready to display ALL THAT which seemed to be bubbling from within as they projected indifference, hurled insults and sometimes cast profuse adulation towards those engaged in battle. I could see the look of nervousness overtake many, but not all of them, as I approached. Afraid, no deathly afraid, that they would hear those words that would thrust them into battle and possibly change their lives forever. Those words..."Take Your Warm-Ups Off"those five words that have stymied the growth of so many along this journey.  I have learned that oftentimes many, though extremely well intentioned, do not possess the ability(ies) nor desire to actually be at the forefront of the hand-to-hand battle that occurs along their personal dash. Oftentimes they relegate themselves to the passivity of an onlooker to something they should ACTIVELY and aggressively engage. This should not be perceived as a knock on how individuals make conscious choices regarding their lives. Instead, utilize it to make a personal assessment of whether you, the listener, are an actual participant in what so many have come to refer to as the game.OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!

So, the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT has to impose its will by appointing a THIRD PARTY MANAGER to ensure that the residents of my hometown have accessibilty to one of the essential needs of existence-WATER.Yea, attorney General Merrick Garland, with the approval of federal judge Henry Wingate, have acted to immediately address the wanton neglect by ALL involved concerning the perpetual water crisis.Allow me to identify several of the critical factors...wanton greed and racism. These factors are evidenced by the exponential growth of the predominantly white suburbs and exurbs surrounding Jackson. The development of these areas was aided in large part by appropriations once intended for Jackson but redirected for nefarious reasons.  Yes, there are whites in Jackson.  However, those whites that continue to dwell and operate businesses within the city of Jackson do so of their own volition and are viewed simply as collateral damage in a city that is 87% BlackUndoubtedly, gross ineptitude and pettiness on the parts of officials, who are repeatedly elected, has unquestionably exacerbated a situation that should have been addressed years ago.  Instead, the citizens of Jackson have been continuously led to a trough that has oftentimes been completely drained of water. Leaving in its place a gross lack of integrity, service and RESPECT. All those things due the inhabitants of that place once known as the "crossroads of the south".All of the aforementioned, and much more, was instrumental in prompting me to entitle this week's episode..."Sooo...Whose Revenge is This?"It should be abundantly clear to the approximately 150,000 residents of Jackson, of all ethnicities, that they are the unwitting pawns of a game that has now combined greed, a lust for power, racism,  abhorrent disrespect, ineptitude, and most of all an "I don't give a damn attitude" to a situation that has created a yearslong issue- all to their detriment.It is my sincere prayer that the appointment of a third party manager will prove to be sufficient in addressing this reprehensible situation.If that person is successful, one thing remains...THE CITIZENS of JACKSON truly holding their elected officials accountable!!!OUR SPIRIT LIVES!!!PEACE!!!