And, they wonder why our parents whupped our asses…
“Relationship Coach” Mark Anthony Spivey, Sr.
There’s a big debate about corporal punishment being administered in the public school systems. Advocates are on both sides of this issue. Some people believe that paddling school-aged children is a bit archaic; others insist that using the “board of education” is a necessary evil to reign in kids who won’t respond to reasonable instruction. There is one thing for sure; studies show that parents who discipline their kids while they are young tend to see those kids succeed in life more often. It is not a fool-proof hypothesis; however, there are some kids who still manage to slip through the cracks.
What’s separates “good” kids from “bad” kids, in my opinion, is parenting. It may take a village to raise a child, but it only takes one parent to whup that ass into submission when all else fails. I honestly believe that the demise of schools in districts across America started when teachers were forced to share valuable instruction time with babysitting duty. Yes, I said it. We (educators) babysit more than we teach. It didn’t used to be that way back in the “day”. My next statement doesn’t have any data confirming what I’m about to say, but I ‘m sure I can dig some up on Google: The Baby Boomer generation is a whole lot smarter than our Generation X counterparts of today. The main reason for this is because of the discipline procedures of yesteryear. That included ass-whuppings.
And, they wonder why our parents whupped our asses…
I remember receiving three (3) whuppings when I was a kid. The first one was for stealing an eraser out of the back-to-school section in a grocery stoe. I was 6 years old. It was being displayed openly in a little tub-like thangy and I just walked up there and stuck one in my pocket. I don’t know why I did it. I guess I just wanted an eraser. It was in 1965. My dad watched me do it and as soon as we got to the register to pay for our other items, he told me to take it out of my pocket and put it on the counter so he could pay for it. “Mr. White Man” watched the entire scenario unfold from start to finish, never saying a word. My dad knew this. When I got home, I got a loving explanation on why I should not steal from my dad followed by ass-whupping I still remember some 50 years later. I didn’t like erasers no mo. My mom gave me my second one for forgetting to take out tha trash and missing the garbage truck as it rolled pass our house and through the neighborhood. I was still full from eating those “beans and conebread” from the night before and overslept. Bishop Spivey also gave me my last whupping for acting “mannish” in front of a church full of girls during Vacation Bible School. I didn’t like girls no mo. I’m lying.
I learned three things from those experiences: 1. Discipline, 2. Discipline, 3.Discipline
My parents NEVER had to come up to the school house to discipline me. I was never written up, never suspended, never got a call home from a teacher, and I never failed a class. I was a pretty good student. I messed up a little bit when I got to college and started “smelling myself”. I got outha house and acted like most freshmen did, eventually dropping out, having kids, and getting married. Still, during all of my adventures I remained disciplined and kept learning. With God’s help, I got other chances/opportunities. I didn’t fall through the cracks. I am one of the fortunate ones…
Young people: Be grateful for parents who are not afraid to discipline you and keep you on the right track. Be glad that you have a fighting chance to become something special in life. You don’t want to be a statistic. Look around; notice that you have things that other kids don’t have. If you are in college, stay there and learn as much as you can while you’re still young. Do the right thing. When you look back over your life as you get older, try to recall some of those ass-whuppings you got when you were younger. What did you learn from them and why do you think yo parents disciplined you the way they did? If you are reading this, you’re still here because of yo parent’s love and God’s grace and mercy. Take advantage of it. You may grow up saying that you’ll “never” whup yo kids when you have some. You may decide to use some other form of correction, but you still need to teach yo children how to act. Especially, in school. But, if they ever steal an eraser, you might need to whup that ass. God bless, good night, and keep yo families together.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
