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Poetry by Ja'MeeLah
9/10/2009 4:47 PM UTC
Greetings Queen, I really enjoyed your poetry on your web site !Continue your "Great Works" God Bless, Ja'MeeLah
TopCast
3/18/2009 11:58 AM UTC
Thank you for stopping by TopCast and I hope you will consider getting Heather on your show.
momshealthyradioshow
3/11/2009 5:16 PM UTC
Whew, that poet talking about "just breath" was something else! Great work!
Knowing True Islaam
2/28/2009 6:18 PM UTC
Visit Knowing True Islaam and listen to our upcoming program on Holy Wars Crusades Jihad.
T.Mill
2/24/2009 2:52 PM UTC
digging the show and vibe. glad i listened.i've added you to my favs
Laughing Lady
2/17/2009 7:21 PM UTC
Thank you for marking the Virtual Laughter Club "It's Time to Laugh" as one of your favorites! The laughter yoga club has moved to a new time and day. Join me on Mondays at 4pm Eastern so we can laugh for the health of it together! Giggles, Laughing Lady
Fake Buddy
1/28/2009 7:36 PM UTC
YAY!!!!!!!!!
CURVY QUEEN
1/27/2009 6:56 AM UTC
GREAT "WELCOME BACK" SHOW! THANX 4 HAVIN ME!
Old Show
1/23/2009 4:34 AM UTC
BEAUTIFUL WOMAN!!!! It's a beautiful connection. I fav'd you back and found your home!!! Platinum
SNOOK da ROKK STARR
1/21/2009 5:24 PM UTC
2NIGHT 1/21 @ 11pm (EST) IM BACK!!!!!!!!! I TOOK SUM TIME OFF BUT SNOOK da ROKK STARR wit ROKK STARR RADIO LIVE iz BACK!! SO COME THRU CHECK ya BOI OUT, CALL in & CHOP IT UP WIT ya BOI 2NIGHT @ 11pm (U DONT WANNA MISS DIS SHOW!!) MARK IT DOWN, TAKE a PICTURE, SET U a REMINDER dis SHOW iz GONNA b STUPID!!!
1/20/2009 12:55 PM UTC
Visit Knowing True Islaam
Tshombe`
1/16/2009 5:59 AM UTC
Can't wait to hear the newness
MoBleu
1/14/2009 8:45 PM UTC
Thank u for the invite ma. Peace and blessings.
GOTTA_BE_ME
1/14/2009 6:13 PM UTC
THANKS FOR THE INVITE.. MRS. KONSCIOUS
Kween Kiwi
1/9/2009 3:06 PM UTC
You look like you're thinking about something...What's going through your royal mind, sis?
Dynasty Radio
1/5/2009 1:16 AM UTC
Happy New Year Love the Show.....and we definitely appreciate the support
Zaquir
1/2/2009 2:52 PM UTC
Happy New Year Queen - Zaq
12/18/2008 3:31 AM UTC
Everyone’s is invited to listen to our program on Knowing True Islaam, please invite a family members, co-workers and neighbors who are not Muslims to tune into our program to learn more about Islaam. To tune into the program please click on the link below then click on the orange button on the front page to listen to the program live. Also we encourage everyone to become a register listener so that they may be able to leave a comment about our program; however it is not necessary to register to listen to the program. Topic: Shirk (Polytheism) The Ultimate Sin. This program will deal with the Islaamic view of polytheism (Shirk) Thursday Night December 18, 2008 (11:00 PM) - Eastern Standard Time Guest Speaker: Abu Yusef Khaleefah Abdullaah http://www.calgaryislam.com/imembers/modules/typetool/pnincludes/uploads/Shirk.jpg http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Knowing_True_Islaam Also everyone is invited to join our Knowing True Islaam Yahoo Group for announcements of future programs. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Knowing_True_Islaam/ If you have any questions during our program you’re welcome to call into the program after our guest speaker had concluded his talk. The area code to call into the program (347) and the phone number is 215-7527. Please do not use this phone number to call into the program to listen because you will prevent non-Muslims who sincerely want to ask a question that need to be answered by our guest speaker which may influence them to accept Islaam.
Great & Powerful Oz
12/18/2008 1:49 AM UTC
This is Oz of Snap Out! Please feel free to join us at: www.blogtalkradio.com/ghentertainment every Tuesday and Thursday at 10pm EST for Uncensored Talk, Unheard Music, and Uninhibited Fun!!!
12/17/2008 2:56 AM UTC
Hey sis, just stopping in to clink crowns and leave. Blessings to you.
DonQCitizen
11/25/2008 2:54 AM UTC
Man....I had to scroll....WAAAAAAYYYYYY DDOOOOOOOWWWWNNNN to get to this box....LOL. Peace.
SNAP OUT!
11/22/2008 8:38 PM UTC
Hey Queen! Just a reminder. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday at 10pm est! We would love to have you SNAP OUT!
JERRY BUTLER7
11/21/2008 2:09 AM UTC
I would love to feature "you" as my guest on my show..please call me @ the offc at 757 538 3540 for details...JB
S.I.S Talk Radio
11/12/2008 12:41 AM UTC
Luv your spirit!
Our Perspective
10/30/2008 2:34 AM UTC
My dear, beloved sista! may the peace and blessings of The Most High and our Ancestors be upon you ALWAYS! Be safe and stay focused!
Sister's With Voices
10/18/2008 5:12 PM UTC
Hello Q. Unique, Thank you for the friendship. . Don't think anything you do is for granted. You are changing lives Many Blessings, Misty Join my show every Wed@10 p.m. Central time www.blogtalkradio.com/inspiredforchangebymisty Misty
mizzbeehave
10/9/2008 8:48 PM UTC
thanks for listening i b sure to catch ur next show.
Miss Lafalot
10/8/2008 11:24 PM UTC
Thanks for listening this morning! Cheers! Miss Lafalot
The WorkLife Coach
10/8/2008 7:22 PM UTC
Thanks for the add. Enjoyed your spoken word. Thanks for sharing your talent with us.
Sistah Peaches
10/8/2008 5:51 PM UTC
OK... QUEEN GOAL GETTA!!! I believe that... thanks for the support and requesting me to be a friend. Please listen to my show beginning, Tuesday, October 14th @ 11pm (est)... I'll definitely be stopping thru... MUCH LOVE & SUCCESS~
YourTimeNowUniv.
10/3/2008 7:10 PM UTC
Heyy, stoppin by to say to you again-Thanks for your friendship:-) It's YOUR Time NOW! This Sat @ 10am est-Pt.6 of "Private-Pain w/my Guest Ms Spirit from ATL...awesome4YOU! I'll be talking also about how I'm promoting YOU on MY SHOW as well also with the V.I.P. Promo I have! (details in current show) Don't miss! Go see details of next show!
Blessed by Above
9/29/2008 4:33 PM UTC
Have A Great Week Peace & Blessings To You And Yours. Sista Precious
PPC1
9/19/2008 9:37 PM UTC
Sarah Palin And Her Outrageous Rape Kit Policy By Bonnie Erbe Sep 18, 2008 E-Mail Story Print Story Sphere Share Text Size: A A A (US News) Mountains of controversy are swirling around Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's strange policy of forcing rape victims to pay for their own rape kits while she was mayor of the now-infamous town of Wasilla. The most interesting take I've found is posted by Alaska blogger Shannyn Moore who relates the following: I sat with a rape victim during the "harvesting of evidence". Mascara smeared eyes stared blankly out from a cave of shame. "We've got swimmers," announced the forensic tech in the lab next door. My friend didn't look surprised. In her 60's, she was still asked if she felt the need for emergency contraception. Surviving the process would have only been compounded and made worse with an itemized bill; victimized twice courtesy of Sarah Palin and the city of Wasilla. Much can be learned about the Palin Administration's family values from reviewing their spending priorities. Former Chief of Police Irl Stambaugh included forensic rape kits (up to $1,200 per kit) in his budget requests. He was fired by Palin in 1997. In her termination letter, Palin wrote, "...I do not feel I have your full support in my efforts to govern the city of Wasilla. Therefore I intend to terminate your employment... " Staumbaugh headed the police department since it was created in 1993. Before that, he served 22 years with the Anchorage Police Department rising to the rank of captain. Sarah Palin hired Charlie Fannon as the new Wasilla Chief of Police and said it was one of her best decisions as mayor. Fannon eliminated the forensic rape kits from the budget. Though the number of rapes weren't reported, Fannon claimed it would save Wasilla taxpayers $5,000 to $14,000 a year. Palin supporters ought to be taking a much closer look at her record on these types of issues (charging rape victims for evidentiary examinations so their attackers can be brought to trial) than whether she can juggle five children and the vice presidency. This, more than anything, should push women, pro-life and pro-choice, away from the McCain-Palin ticket. It's one thing to oppose abortion on moral grounds. It's quite another to charge crime victims for their own forensic examinations. Such a policy is nothing short of outrageous.
9/19/2008 7:30 AM UTC
http://www.michiganmessenger.com/4076/lose-your-house-lose-your-vote
9/17/2008 2:23 AM UTC
Leaving my mark on your page..letting you know a brotha thought about you. Holla!!
denyce -REFLECTIONZ
9/16/2008 2:01 AM UTC
Hope all is well with you Goddess.....I'm going through withdrawals gurl.....hurry up and have a show already....lol luv u sis (((HUGGSS)))
9/10/2008 5:49 PM UTC
HAPPY BORN DAY QUEEN!!!!!
LaTosha
9/6/2008 6:33 PM UTC
Just listen to the show Good news,You really put it down,I appreciate your skills.
WellnessExperience
8/31/2008 12:04 AM UTC
Greetings Thank You for the friendship invite. Here's to your continued success on BlogTalk radio.
ANITA GABRIELLA
8/29/2008 2:43 PM UTC
Nice to meet you! Have a wonderful weekend! Much Love Anita
PROPHETESS Dee
8/29/2008 1:02 PM UTC
GREETINGS BLOVD. THANKS FOR STOPPING BY.YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME
SoulSistas 'Live'
8/21/2008 9:01 PM UTC
Thanks for the luv and support Queen Unique...will be checking you out as well... Thanks... ~Flavr~
musiqnika
8/20/2008 3:53 PM UTC
Queennnnnnnnnnnn!! I'll have to surprise you one day. I hope all is well with you. Peace and Blessings!
8/14/2008 12:14 AM UTC
Yo!!! Hey Queen! Thanks for comin through to listen to SNAP OUT! Lovin your page!! Keep doin' U!!!
AWARR
8/9/2008 12:14 AM UTC
Hey Q. Unique. Checkin' up on you. See your doing well. Peace. ~Zen~
Kamal Imani
7/31/2008 8:28 PM UTC
Peace Queen, I'm feeling your power. Keep up the fiyyah! Kamal Imani
7/30/2008 6:02 PM UTC
2NIGHT JULY da 30th @ 11pm (EST) ITs GOIN DOWN LIVE WIT ya BOI SNOOK da ROKK STARR aka INDIE GRIN ARTIST of da YEAR (SOUTH CRACK) COME CHECK ME OUT & CALL IN 2 CHOP IT UP WIT ya BOI!! HERE FROM U in 9 HOURS!!
SexAfterDark
7/23/2008 4:10 AM UTC
By invitation only, we would like for you to join our New SexAfterDark Radio Network at http://sexafterdark.ning.com/
Mystic_I_69
7/22/2008 3:34 AM UTC
Beautiful show Queen! always be a blessing and grow in wisdom, mystic
spicyrie
7/15/2008 8:16 PM UTC
I am so blessed to call you a friend, and it is not because we're poetess. It is you allow other views to marinate in your mind, but you also take charge of them in your judgment. I have nuttin but luv Spicy
Ts Tunes
7/15/2008 4:45 AM UTC
Another Great show and Gift to all by introducing talented Artists to the audience I Love How You Do YOU RISE & REIGN Queen
7/9/2008 5:56 PM UTC
Our sincerest apologies Queen! We never got a chance to thank you for making our show a favorite. Thank you VERY much beloved sista! We love u dearly! Sincerely, Bro. Hank & T'Boogz! WWW.OURPERSPECTIVERADIO.COM
MelissaHipTlkBouncer
7/8/2008 3:32 AM UTC
Good Job Queenie!! Much Love...
ParaWomenScreamRadio
7/5/2008 11:30 PM UTC
Thanks for requesting us as a friend! The League of Extraordinary Paranormal Women, putting the Grrrrr back into Girls in the paranormal! Love and Horror Amy
Hip Talk Radio
6/30/2008 7:31 AM UTC
"Queen got skillz"
Virtuous'
6/28/2008 6:51 PM UTC
Always good to see "The Queen" in the house..Thanks for hitting up Erotic Confections...Hope to see you on Tuesday in the Neo-Lystically Speaking House..Love ya sis...V"
Soul Talk Radio
6/28/2008 12:50 AM UTC
waz up am nateda3rd off soul talk radio juss came to check out n sho love to ya spot . holla at me.. 1
TCP Live! Talk Radio
6/25/2008 3:39 PM UTC
Just stopping by to say, hello, and to invite you to check out our show, TCP Live! Talk Radio: Unscripted & Uncut! where we keep it real Fun, Entertaining, Educational and Enlightening. We are on Friday nights at 6pm pst. We'd love to see you there. Peace for now.
DjReggieRegg(TM)
6/23/2008 11:05 PM UTC
sup queen just showing some love!
6/22/2008 11:18 PM UTC
Have A Great Sunday Many Blessings To You And Yours Great Shows!! Great Host.... Shalom, Evangelist Osborne AKA Precious
DLuvhall
6/18/2008 4:15 PM UTC
What's good Queen???? I feel so wack no being able to be a part of any of your shows for a minute. Yeah, I may catch a replay, but there's nothing like being there when it goes down. Forgive me ma??? When my world slows down, you know I'll be there. Peace & blessings... DLuvhall...
Mother Metaphor
6/18/2008 2:06 PM UTC
It has been a minute since we've spoken, but I wanted to let you know that I am still in your corner. Thanks 4 being you - you are quite an inspiration...be well Sis!
Vicki aka ThezeEyez
6/18/2008 7:56 AM UTC
You my sista are being yourself...you say hard, I say gracious and talented! Great show in honor of the Peince ad the one who was blessed to bring Tupac forth. There is no doubt of where he would be right now had hiss light not been snuffed out. Peace to you and your guests. Burlinda you did your thing. May God continue to bless you as you endeavor to fulfill your dreams.
Racism Non-Anonymous
6/13/2008 1:25 AM UTC
Peace Queen!! Thanks for the add and looking FORWARD to Building M.E. Mama Earth
Miss V on the Scene
6/11/2008 4:10 PM UTC
Keep doing what you do sista girl! You possess a smooth flavor that's unique to you. I'll be listening. Grace and peace, Miss V on the Scene blogtalkradio.com/letstalklive Founder, The Let's Talk Live Company, Home of The Human Connection Coaching and Mentoring Concept
6/11/2008 2:24 PM UTC
2NIGHT ITs GOIN DOWN IN A MAJOR WAY & U DONT WANT 2 MISS ROKK STARR LIVE @ 11pm (EST)!! 4 ANY & EVERY1 DAT CALLS IN I SENDIN U a PERSONALIZED SIGN CD & POSTER!! ROKK WIT ya BOI SNOOK da ROKK STARR 2NIGHT 11pm(EST)!! ya DIGGGGGGGGGGGGG!!
6/11/2008 5:28 AM UTC
Awwww thank you Queen, right back at you MUAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Flava News
6/9/2008 9:54 PM UTC
Hey Queen...I have missed you...been off doing "me"...but I am back...so see you tonight.
Claudia Mosley (BTP)
5/28/2008 9:16 PM UTC
Hi there just showing some luv
5/28/2008 3:28 PM UTC
Hey girl! Just showin some love!!!! Be well.
5/27/2008 12:38 AM UTC
5/28 @ 11PM (EST) da WHOLE BlogTalkRadio.com WORLD GO CHANGE!! LISTEN IN LIVE & BARE WITNESS!! SNOOK da ROKK STARR LIVE & UNCUT.......
Trulyblessed
5/26/2008 5:36 PM UTC
Thanks Queen for coming by our show and showing some love.
PEAS IN THEIR PODS
5/26/2008 4:43 PM UTC
Laurell Hall will be our guest Sunday 7pm central. Please come support this mother. May 9, 1994 started off like any ordinary day. Eighteen year old Cleashindra Hall-Clea to her friends and family, left her home for her clerical job with Dr. Larry Amos, a dentist in Pine Bluff, AR. At around 8:00, Clea called her mother to check in. It was the last time Laurell Hall would ever hear from her daughter.
5/24/2008 9:22 PM UTC
WHAT UP QUEEN DIS ya KING SNOOK da ROKK STARR!! JUST CAME THRU 2 SHOW LOVE!! ROKK STARR LIVE COMIN REAL SOON!!
MoKha
5/23/2008 2:28 AM UTC
peace luv, just showin' respect for the Queen..always pay'n it forward C-Luv ~M
5/20/2008 4:15 AM UTC
Good show. Sorry I didnt catch it live. 5 stars n e way. Peace. ~Zen~
House Of Jaxx
5/16/2008 3:31 PM UTC
Have a great show tonight Queen! :)
Marcus L. Boston
5/14/2008 9:54 PM UTC
Just wanted to say hello Unique. Congratulations on your books. Marcus
Write The Vision
5/13/2008 5:13 PM UTC
Thanks for tuning in... I am blessed to have your support! In His Service ~ Minister Celeste
Max Parthas
5/13/2008 4:05 AM UTC
Peace Queen Unique. I had a great evening with you. Keep doing what you do and the world will smile upon you. Max
5/12/2008 6:18 PM UTC
Queen got skillz!
EBWN
5/12/2008 4:42 AM UTC
Thank you for tuning in to The Empowered Black Perspectives Radio Show. Our weekly broadcasts held each Friday, are structured as roundtable discussions endeavored to create a positive change in our communities. Each forum addresses controversial yet provocative topics that our loyal listeners would like to know more about. Please visit our website at Empoweredblackperspectives.com to find out more about our shows and our special guests each week. Thank you for using your voice to create change! Empoweredblackperspectives.com
RealTalk~RealWoman
5/9/2008 8:56 PM UTC
Have a great show tonight sis'!! Stay Blessed Always!~hugs~ Love jaxx :)
5/7/2008 8:06 PM UTC
Thanks for showing a brotha sum luv. Much appreciated...keep doing whatchu do!! Holla...DQ
Lady Serenity
5/7/2008 3:07 PM UTC
Love your energy and I support a woman that knows her power starts with her voice...keep the heart work going. Come join me on Fridays 12 noon EST. Hope to hear you there!
SoulpitchDiva
5/6/2008 5:13 PM UTC
Thank you for inviting me... Love your movement!
Raneika
5/4/2008 4:04 AM UTC
Hey just passing by to show some love! I hope to be tune in and I hope everything is going good with you! From Raneika
HoUsE of FriK
5/4/2008 2:38 AM UTC
There you go... Just droppin' in to show the LOVE I got for you, Baby... Peace and Love, MwaH... Do yo' thing....
Luvologist
5/1/2008 5:54 PM UTC
Wax on...wax off...
5/1/2008 4:30 PM UTC
Queen got dem skillz!
Drama Hour
4/30/2008 10:05 PM UTC
DRAMA HOUR IS LOOKING FOR A NEW FEMALE HOST IF YOU THINK YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES SEND A E-MAIL TO MAJESTY745@YAHOO.COM AND LET US KNOW WHY IT SHOULD BE YOU
Illuminations
4/30/2008 4:43 PM UTC
Thank you for stopping by Queen...one Queen to another, it all starts with self-love. Peace
DownSouthGaGirl
4/29/2008 4:35 AM UTC
Great show 2nite. 1luv
JsQueen625
4/28/2008 11:25 PM UTC
your welcome i am trying to know anyone that can help me, and anyone i can help big,or small. Its funny i feel a little bond b/t us because we a both Queens and when i was thinking of a pen name it was going to be Ms. Unique so when i see your nme i smile. My schedule today is tight but like i said i am going to try my best,plus i am still recovering from Mahogani speaks last night. I will be heading to your my space soon so look for me and lets stay in touch please. Kudos for even doing the unspeakable in a show like this. But we both know what happens when "The Queen Speaks".
The Rapturous Reader
4/28/2008 2:29 PM UTC
Hey There! Your page speaks volumes. Thanks for the friendship! ~Lisa Diane
Lady Blue
4/28/2008 5:13 AM UTC
I wanta be like you whne I grow up....(((Queen Unique)) Much love Auntie Blue
4/28/2008 4:02 AM UTC
Just wanna give you your props on your poetry.
4/28/2008 12:52 AM UTC
Queen check my show out 2nite. 11pm tonite till 1am where we discussing hip hop and r&b! trust me you'll love it, it's raw and uncut!!!
4/28/2008 12:50 AM UTC
Queen u are awesom!
MonieJ
4/27/2008 5:19 AM UTC
Queen You are awesome thank you for being there for me! Mucho Amore! MonieJ
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Queen Speaks Radio (QSR) is a straight-forward and motivating internet radio show broadcasting every Monday night. Queen Unique and NativeSun focus on topics which affect African Americans with an emphasis on the arts as well as the importance of community and parental involvement, education, Autism, AIDS & HIV Awareness and current events for Black America. The purpose of QSR is not to dwell on and complain about the issues we face as African Americans but to eliminate boundaries, increase self confidence, restore family bonding and delve up resolutions as well as resources which will position us in the right direction by which our destinies shall manifest. One of QSR's main goals is showing the world that our culture defines the arts, creativity, diversity and God-given talents all in one "edu-taining" online radio atmosphere by highlighting a diverse array of talent from poets/spoken word artists, authors, musicians, conscious rappers, entrepreneurs, fashion & graphic designers and all other artists. While QSR desires to deliver innovative and inquisitive programming; our first priority is to maintain a genuine, down-to-earth & fun atmosphere so that our messages do not exceed the comprehension of this generation (who are the ones who need to hear it the most!). See, Mama taught me to ALWAYS speak with my mouth FULL so come inside, grab a drink, kick back and prepare to get REAL with ya girl Queen Unique and my "swag-a-docious" co-host NativeSun (and BOY it ain't no tellin what he might say lol)...
Date / Time: 2/25/2008 3:44 PM UTC
She watches him as he sits quiet and content, looking at the television but not watching it. He smiles, he laughs, he looks as if he is in deep thought, but what about? Every few minutes, he flinches and reaches toward her in a failed attempt to annoy her. She's known him now for twenty-one years. She holds him when he is tired, cares for him when he is ill, and scolds him when he misbehaves. They understand each other though he has only spoken two words in his lifetime. She loves everything about him, except his bad habit of grinding his teeth.
It is almost 6:30 now and she knows he will be hungry again soon. She goes into the kitchen and he follows laughing out loud because he knows it's time to eat. He has no favorite dish, however, his preference is meat. She learned at a college seminar that people like him usually become obsessed with something. Sometimes it's books, painting, even building card houses. His obsession was eating. He would devour anything except for cereal. Cameron would get out of bed around 4:00 a.m. and eat all of the food in the refrigerator. It had really gotten out of hand once so they installed a bolt lock on the refrigerator door. He hated those bolt locks.
He was well behaved for the most part. At least when she was around, he knew what he could and could not do. She also had three other brothers, two younger than Cameron. Throughout his life, his two younger brothers would sometimes pick on him ruthlessly but if someone else did, they became infuriated. She knew that this hurts Cameron's feelings, he didn't show it but she could feel it. They all loved him in different ways but for some reason, to her, the way she felt for him was stronger…deeper.
Her kids admired him. They would spend hours in his room playing with him and would be upset if they couldn't. They understand him and they like to help care for him. It was hard for her to explain Autism to two young girls but it worked out well. She told them that God just makes some people different. Special.
"But, Mommy, why did he make our uncle that way?" She laughs out loud as she thought back. Sometimes the questions that children ask are the most difficult to answer. She glances across the room at Cameron, waiting patiently at the dining room table to be served his meal. Sometimes she asks him what he's thinking about and he just smiles and signs 'eat'. He doesn't use much sign language at home except the sign for 'eat'. It's definitely his favorite.
Cameron is about 5'9", 200 pounds but he is a big baby. He likes to curl up in their mother's lap still at the age of 21. He's big but gentle and he hates to see any of his family in any type of pain. He would cry uncontrollably sometimes and it hurts them immensely because they never know why. They would offer him his favorite things but nothing stopped his crying until he fell asleep. She used to stand in his doorway and watch him sleep, wondering why he cries that way. Is it because he knows he is different and it was hard to deal with? Is it something happening at school? The thought of someone mistreating him always makes her angry. Lord knows they had been through enough of that with his father. His father. Is that why he cries? Does he miss him or does he hate the memories of his violence?
He looks up and notices her watching him and he smiles again. She loved his smile. Through all the changes the family had been through, one thing that never changed was his smile.
She could remember back when he was only twelve years old. He used to think it was funny to jump out of open windows and run when no one was looking. Sometimes they would hear him crash through the screen, there were even times he would do it while they were in the same room. He would burst the front door open and tear across the field. Boy, he was fast as a bullet too. Their Mom would scream for the two oldest kids to chase him down because she couldn't catch him, she had tried a few times. He would run like the wind, laughing and never looking back. The family always feared a car would hit him because he ran so carelessly but he never did. Their neighbors had grown to know him and they would sometimes hold onto him until they caught up. Cameron would have sand spurs in his feet and he would hold his feet up for his mother to pick them out when he was safe in the house again. She giggled to herself as she prepared to fry his pork loins.
It was as clear as yesterday to her, one Saturday morning at about 3:30 a.m., there was a knock at the door that woke her. When she opened the door, there stood Daryl, one of her older brother's classmates who lived about four blocks away. She had a huge crush on him and she thought he came to his senses and realized he felt the same way. Her heart fluttered in her chest. He said that he was coming in from the club and he saw Cameron run past his house. Her heart sank, a chill ran down her spine and sheer panic engulfed her as she noticed the time. She ran for her shoes, screaming for everyone to wake up. They all scrambled out of the door and split up into three different directions. She combed her path, calling his name for an hour. Tears welled up in her eyes and she finally went home. There was Cameron on the couch with his mother picking the sand spurs from his feet. Mother had found him sitting on the back of a parked trailer truck about two miles away from home. He was lost, tired, and afraid. Her Mom said when she found him; he ran to her and hugged her tight all the way home. He wasn't laughing or smiling. They were all upset when they realized he had ran out but their Mom said when he hugged her, all of her anger melted in his embrace. They were happy to have him home and he was happy to be there. Ever since that morning, he never ran again.
He grabbed her by the arm and she snapped back to reality. She looked at him and he signed 'eat'. She hurried to prepare his plate and set it on the table in front of him. He devoured four pork loins and a heap of macaroni and cheese within seven minutes and she just knew he would want more. But he did not want any more today. Cameron rose from the table and went to his room to rest. She would not disturb him because he looked tired. He went into the room and closed the door behind him.
As Cameron closed his door, he sighed out loud. So many thoughts ran through his head. He was full and really wanted to watch television. It did not matter what was on. He needed to put his mind at ease the best way he knew how considering the fact that he could not talk. So his release was television and music. He looked around at his television, headphones, compact disc players, and cassette players they had bought for him. He knew how much his family loved him, especially his Mom and his sister, Katrina.
Katrina was firm but she also loved. He knew he could not get away with half of the stuff he could with his mother. His mother was always weak for him because she felt guilty. He knew he could have whatever he wanted if he just asked. Sometimes Katrina would try to make her resist but it never worked. He was Mommy's boy. He laughed to himself.
His two younger brothers were better now. They used to pick on him years ago and his Mom and sister would become defensive. It never bothered him; he knew they were just being children. Though he is autistic, he was much more mature than they thought. But he knew that it made them happy to do everything for him. They liked to wait on him and clean up after him. But whenever he received awards from school for cleaning up and preparing food, they would be surprised. What do they expect? Cameron knew that school was a job and home was like a vacation so he relished in it.
When his sister would stare at him with 'that look' he always knew what she was thinking. He would find himself quietly struggling inside to say 'it's okay' but he could only smile. That was his way of telling her that he was just fine. His Mom does the same and when she does it, he struggles even harder to say something but it never happens so he has learned to laugh away the anger. Smiling and laughing always makes him feel better because he knows that it makes them feel better. Whether they know it or not, they really mean the world to him.
Cameron felt uncomfortable and had to switch positions in his king-sized bed as he thought back to the unhappy days. The man that his brothers called Dad. He loved him but his hatred and anger overwhelmed the love that was there. Cameron is always loving and gentle but when someone in his family was hurt, he would see red, literally. 'Dad' would make him do just that because he hurt them physically and emotionally. He was relieved when he left although something inside is empty now. Back then he cried because of him and now he cries because of those memories. It would hurt his family when he cried because they didn't understand why but he could not help himself. Although he is gone, the memories linger. He had heard his sister crying at night sometimes as he lay in his bed. He never knew why she would cry; all he knew is that the next morning, she was all better. So he does the same and it works. It really does work.
Cameron only knew what he was taught and what he saw. It's hard to be that way but he knew it could be worse. He sees worst-case scenarios each day at school. Some of his classmates can't walk or feed themselves, some can't even understand simple English. To make matters worse, some of their families are uncaring and regretful of them. There are even a few that don't even have their real families. He knew he was blessed to be where he was. He was not too sure who made it possible but he thinks it was that guy who he's heard his sister talking about. Some guy named God. Whoever He was, Cameron believed that He was the One who blessed him and he was thankful for that.
So as he lay in his bed, dozing off, he smiled again. His door creaked open and he closed his eyes just enough to see but to appear asleep. He was really good at that now. He saw Katrina come in, cover him up and kiss his forehead. She picked up the remote to turn the television off but she paused as she remembered the comfort that it provided for Cameron. She placed the remote back on the dresser and walked to the door. She stopped and looked back just as she always does, then she finally turned and closed the door behind her. Cameron smiled again.
Copyright © 2007 by K.L. Shanks
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Autism is defined by the Autism Society of America as a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Autism was first identified in 1943 by Dr. Leo Kanner of Johns Hopkins Hospital. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. One should keep in mind however, that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees - this is why early diagnosis is so crucial. By learning the signs, a child can begin benefiting from one of the many specialized intervention programs. Autism is one of five disorders that falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by "severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development." The Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta and others report black children have significantly higher rates of mild mental retardation than white children do and socioeconomic factors cannot explain the differences.
The study of 54 African American families and 557 Caucasian families in which a member had autism were analyzed. Researchers analyzed genes that regulate a brain chemical or neurotransmitter called GABA along chromosome 15. Chromosome 15 has been linked to autism. GABA slows down nerve cells from firing once their message has been transmitted. In this way, the neurotransmitter acts as an information filter that prevents the brain from becoming over-stimulated. If the GABA system malfunctions, the brain can be flooded with sensory information that overwhelms the brain's processing capabilities, leading to some of the behaviors that characterize autism, said Michael Cuccaro, Ph.D ., a Duke clinical psychologist and study co-author. According to a study co-author, if the GABA system malfunctions, the brain can be flooded with sensory information that overwhelms the brain's processing capabilities leading to some of the behaviors that characterize autism.
HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE:
Please visit this link:
Autism Speaks and Cure Autism Now
Thank you for caring enough to read my blog, it means more to me than you will ever understand. If I have enlightened at least one person, my mission is accomplished. Please feel free to comment.
Much love and blessings to all,
Queen Unique
Date / Time: 2/25/2008 3:41 PM UTC
"I AM"I am not the enemy ..
But so many...
See me as such
I cannot be transferred by something as simple as touch
I did not ask to be here or inhabit so many beings
Can't even comprehend why so many people still aren't believing
They spoke of me in Revelations; I'm all over your T.V. too
Skin sores and weight loss are only minor things you see me do
Many are fooled so easily so I fester in those with beauty
Men with chiseled muscles and women with pretty round booties
I'm in churches, schools, grocery stores, clubs and malls
I transfer just as much in matrimony as I do in random booty calls
They have a cure for me, you see...but your money ain't that long
So I can frolic freely among lower & middle classes on strong
I partner with your blood, sweat and other bodily fluids
These are 70% of a human so it's so simple to do it
Invisible to the naked eye and undetectable to the touch
My best vehicles are drugs & sex since this foolish world loves them so much
I damage your blood cells to weaken your immunity
I can even scare away your family & friends so it's only you & me
I am black, brown and white
I am wrong, I am right
I am day, dawn and night
I am dark, I am light
I am straight, I am gay
Slim or overweight
I am rich, I am poor
And so much more
Though you think you know me...HA! I dare you to settle the score!
I am the seething desperation you find in fool's gold
The weakening sensation that smothers all secrets left untold
I am the shadow of desire, the darkness of your addictions
The yang of all temptations, the foundation of afflictions
The finish line of the race no matter your color, creed or wealth
I exhaust your salvation; I am the footprint of death
I am not a liar, a thief, criminal or enemy
I am thoroughly exposed to the world but you just can't stay away from me
My biggest adversary is as simple as self-control
But my death toll...
Keeps increasing because your actions still don't change
I am HIV, AIDS...nearly one and the same
Copyright © 2007 by K.L. Shanks aka Queen Unique
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Queen Speaks Radio (QSR) is an online talk-show hosted by spoken word artist/author/motivational speaker Queen Unique. QSR is dedicated to empowering minorities, encouraging positive attitudes and promoting visual, literary and performing arts. Focusing also on spreading knowledge and delving up resolutions to issues which affect Black America including but not limited to parenting, Autism Awareness, HIV/AIDS Awareness, the educational system, the importance of literacy, black history and parental involvement in our youth's education. QSR also brings uplifting interviews from established and forthcoming artists, activists, positive media resources and entrepreneurs in addition to covering topics such as self esteem, health, spirituality, sexuality, career objectives, goal conquering, spoken word/poetry open mics and so much more! Queen Unique is dedicated to bringing innovative, informative and “edu-taining” broadcasts to you every week. Between the family-oriented quality of the show, outgoing personality and marketing skills of Queen Unique and an impressive stable of distinguished guests and supporters; in only four months QSR has skyrocketed into impressive success attracting over 1,500 live listeners, over 13,000 archive listens and maintaining top ratings in BlogTalk Radio Culture categories with ease! Although each show is heavily marketed through various resources before and after airing, even with little or no online promotion QSR has sustained a rapidly increasing listening audience and support team. These blessings are humbling and motivating and are never taken for granted.
"MAMA TAUGHT ME TO ALWAYS SPEAK WITH MY MOUTH FULL"