Brpp7 by BlaqRayn

BlaqRayn Publishing Plus Magazine

Promoting Artistic Expression

Eric “Crow” Draven

www.mylastwrites.org

Poetry with Rosalind Cherry

Featured Books

The Red Velvet Lounge

Review of “INK” with Eric “Crow” Draven

Puttin’ U On Promotions EyeLuv Books Promotions

Featured Author Stacey Thomas

5 6

Goddess Resurrected

Streetz Eye Photography

11 and 19

JSP Promotions

Mamas Making Moves

Featured Poet Brotha Amir

It Was On My Mind LUPUS Awareness

KESHA THE MODEL

20 21

Poetry by Rosalind Cherry aka Cherry Bomb upon her she

Your Special Beauty~!

was to be your

If I could place thousands roses

precious gift to

into a shape of heart then I

unwrap in your

would place you directly in the

arms.

center devoted.

Her jewelry had a way to flatter her eyes every time Your Special Beauty~!

she look directly in

Your special beauty

your face you

came into your life

feeling nothing but

in the still of

love.

the darkness for

Her bright colors

your eyes to

set off her coco almond

see only you

skin color she had

we simply amazed by her vision deeply. There she was standing in the

this glow she of course made you to feel so very special touched. There were desires

corner look straight into her eyes you could smell her fragrance from a distance

you want to set off only went it meant to be for right now

You wanted to

you were stuck

set your lips

by all of her

To you forever more from this special night when you made your presence known to me my special one I choose to love.

5 Star Titles and Authors

The Red Velvet Lounge Welcome to the stimulus place where dating, love, relationships, and yes sex can take your mind for a spin. To engage in a world filled with mind-blowing ecstasy and topics that will linger upon your thoughts. Singles, it’s your time to shine and stand united because your opinions do matter when it comes to the real world of dating, relationships and hot sex! Get comfy as I explore your mind. Take a “love jones” seat in the Red Velvet Lounge!

We are now living in a generation where some men… no let’s say lots of men spread their seeds to the innocence and easy prey. If men can’t put a ring on it, why pull it out of your sponge bob boxers and lay down with her?! Sex isn’t everything and while a lot of people think so, it shall be dealt with under special consequences. A baby that is born into the world must be considered by both the female and male in order to be there for the child even if they don’t want to be together. Saying “I love you” during sex and maybe after having five shots of scotch can lead to emotional distress and mixed feelings. Why can’t a person become committed first before they put themselves on an emotional roller coaster? That way both persons know the love is real instead of lust at first sight. It’s important that single people to date with a purpose! Ladies we are Queens! We are diamonds, rubies and pearls sitting high on our thrones! Let’s not let some of these no-good men play with our minds, feeding us these crappy lines only to get the cookies! Some of them want to see us weak and broken, so we have to keep our standards high and “play smart” The sex may be good, but the feelings only last for a temporary time. Why lay with a person knowing good and well you aren’t planning on being with them in a relationship? Allow the “cookies” to stay in the jar fresh instead of allowing them to become stale. Thank you for coming out and enjoying the “love jones” seat. Stay tuned next time and join me again in the Red Velvet Lounge!

BlaqRayn’s Review of “INK” CD by Eric “Crow” Draven "INK” as a whole collection: The review scale usually goes from 1 to 5, well, for this marriage of poetry and music, we need a new chart! The poetry, the spoken word, the music composition; it is all done with such masterful brilliance. Timmy Hendrix, you are a genius! The addition of vocals from Kiera Peterkin (Eric’s niece), Tifini Lewis and Vida McWhite definitely raised the level of heat on this already red hot musical treat. Nathan Pearson, you are the man and you did your thing on “These Hands”! Eric “Crow” Draven’s voice alone sends chills up our collective spines; add his gift as a Spoken Word master to the mix and things start exploding all around you! His pen is so powerful, his voice so unique, it’s obvious he puts of piece of Crow in every word he writes and speaks. I give this Masterpiece a 15 on anybody’s scale!!!

 

Let me say thank you to Mr. Eric Draven again for allowing BRPP Network the opportunity to not only be a part of the release of this magnificent piece of Art but to be among the first to hear it and release two songs. You put us in a position to see “history in the making” up close and personal...we are forever humbled and grateful!

Review of each song in CD order: Don’t let the track titles fool you...u have no idea until you actually hear each song in its entirety! Son of Frankenstein: In this initial track, Crow begins his journey from his beginning...his father. Believe me, the man was no Frankenstein but he was a giant and his song pays him homage as only a son can. With a forceful, powerful music composition, you feel every word! Shepherd in Boys Town: A man that has pretty much seen it all and done a lot of it shares wisdom and a word of encouragement with the young men in his life without judgment but with a heavy word of warning to take heed to those who have “been there...done that...” Tifini Lewis is on vocals; the music slows and mellows a bit because in this particular piece, the message is of the utmost importance. Fairytales: Hip Hop vibe for real! This track is all the evidence you will ever need of Crow’s genius with a pen! Really??? To take the nursery rhymes and stories we all heard and read as children and in some cases are now sharing with our children and word them to apply to the hardships and struggles of life in the hood...BRILLIANT!!! 2 Late: When you listen to this track, pay attention to the drumming in the music...sometimes in order to survive, we must learn to march to the beat of a different drummer! Crow gives us a glimpse into his world of Social work. At times in life, no matter what we do we cannot save those around us, so please take heed before it’s too late. These Hands: Again, who would think to do a piece and put it to such dramatic and dynamic music about “hands”, but these two (The Legend Nathan P and Crow) did it and Wow did they do it! I can’t lie, I had to look at my hands and remember all the good, bad, wonderful and not so wonderful things they have touched and done. Talk about a song taking you on a walk down memory lane! INK: The title track of the CD and such a cosmic song, in that at the moment you began listening, it takes you out of yourself to whatever place you need to be. It’s a song that opens the imagination like a door and welcomes you to come and explore all possibilities. The music is so reminiscent of old school classics, Vida McWhite really does her thing on this track and Crow’s words...his voice strokes every syllable like a gentle lover...it simply takes you there! Beautiful: The Latin feel with that d*^m guitar is so freaking hot!!! Ladies, he did this one just for us! If you have ever had a second of doubt about your power as a woman, ever lacked that necessary self-confidence or sense of self-worth; ever dealt with jealousy or envy to the point where you just wanted to give up and give in? If you answered yes to anyone of these questions, this is the song for you!!! Crow does what he does and does it like no one else...remind you of just how Beautiful you really are!!! Unapologetic: The music on this track has a very spiritual feel with the Lord’s Prayer and Kiera singing the children’s good night prayer I recited as a child and taught to my children...this song is a celebration of life. You can connect with it because of its simplicity, yet the message is so clear. Live your life to the fullest and make no apologies because at the end of the day...the memories are all that linger. Talk To Me: Crow allows us an exclusive look at himself through his own eyes as he talks to Crow. The music is very gentle and uplifting...his words give us a glimpse into his life from birth until now. He trust us enough to let us see the real Eric “Crow” Draven as he finally takes a look inside himself...as he looks on the good, the bad, the ugly and the Great...for all his Greatness shines in these 9 songs and I am blessed to have been given the pleasure of hearing them. Thank you Crow

For all your internet promotional needs: www.blaqraynpublishingplus.org

Featured Author

Stacey Thomas Stacey Thomas was born and raised in Virginia. She is a wife and mother of two. She attended Virginia Union University for accounting and spent years working in real estate and customer service.

Throughout her life she's been writing for an emotional release and sometimes for enjoyment; Stacey became an avid reader during her twenties.

For years something went on in Stacey’s mind Stacey published her first work of fiction “Sins of the Flesh: Erotic Short Stories” in 2013 and it is currently available on Amazon. Part II of this continuing erotic series is set for release in June 2014 through Stacey’s publisher Black Destiny Publications. She says the books are about experiences of yielding to temptation. She has many stories started and she’s anticipating an opportunity to complete them all! Stacey’s working to grow as a writer and wants readers to be excited when introduced to her special brand of fiction. She has many dreams and she’s very excited about her future. She believes when God gives you something, it should not to be ignored but pursued. She can be found at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacey.thomas.3150

8 AVAILABLE NOW THRU ONLINE RETAILERS

Although the Spirit maybe strong, the Flesh is weak.

Candy proves that men do not have a patent on affairs. Candy's a go getter, what Candy wants.. Candy gets! Malcolm gets an eye full and has to make a decision.

Is Tracy the reason her husband Jamal succumbs to temptation? Tracy takes a hell of a roller coaster ride with a stranger.

Meisha is overcome with lust and learns not to stereotype based solely upon race when choosing a lover.

Author

Stacey Thomas

COMING JUNE 2014 What does one do when an attraction is so strong yet so wrong? Can a night on a roller coaster ride lead to love? Temptation can create sin and spread like a disease reaching so deep in one’s soul that resisting is not an option.

What happens when a wife neglects her husband and the devil sends his daughter to his door? A wife sees that some relationships never die when she pays a surprise visit to her husband. Anyone can lick and pull, but Candy has a secret...a story never told. Someone’s coming for her, six feet tall, sexy and bold. Candy’s like crack!

Can a husband’s love for his wife prevent him from going back? Will Tracy do enough to save her marriage?

UP YOU MIGHTY RACE!

Goddess Resurrected Namaste (Peace be unto you) my beloved brothers and sisters. I pray this reaches you in the best of health physically, mentally and spiritually. I will continually remind our readers that the name of this column is Up, You Mighty Race’- built upon Marcus Garvey’s idea that the Afrikan peoples worldwide are One. I stray away from the multitude of divisions and strive ever forward for that that which unifies us. We have a term for this, we call ‘our struggle’. Today, I wish to speak about the beauty and power of the Black woman- above Love and Light- and about Faith. I’m sure I’m not the only one who wonders- if God is our Father, then Who is our Mother? This is not a new idea- just an ancient one that now only exists in smaller forms. We have grown accustomed to calling our women princess and queen- but without a greater image, these are just words. Men imagine that their crowns are ordained by God. Logic dictates that earthly queens would have a Divine image of their Mother. Beyond philosophy and religions- these women- a Sisterhoodpriestesses- have felt a spiritual connection to the Earth, Womb, the seasons, beauty, art, dance and sexuality. Somewhere around 4,000 B.C. (on the Roman calendar), a Serpent rises and the descent of Man (as a collective) begins. It is most evident I Mesopotamia- the Fertile Crescent- ‘The Garden Of Eden’. Before this,Temples and Priestesses made our Mother Goddess a Living Deity. A clash between ‘angels and demons’sons of Light and sons of darkness- converge with the emergence of Aryans (Caucasians?) into southern Asia and northern Afrika. Also came the first Pharaoh (Menes/ Narmer) with an army to subjugate the Priesthood and declare them as living gods. To solidify a male-dominated hierarchy, the role of women needed to be reduced. The Goddess could

Diligent research forces us to revisit the allegorical significance of the ‘Adam and Eve’ myth. Freemasons might assist us in helping to understand why ‘Eve’ was made the scapegoat for ‘The Fall’ wherein knowledge was shared with ‘Adam’. It is also significant that “sons of God had children with the daughters of men”. The clash of races finds its origin here. Our focus must remain on Black women. For it is these Black women in their cultural traditions that keep the Goddess alive. Mulatto and Aryan daughters find favor among Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek, Roman and Arab invaders.Greek and Roman goddesses lived only in mythology. The Oracles at Delphi were an extension of Egyptian priestesses. Goddess worship, Astrology and spiritual sexuality (erotica) would be considered ‘pagan’ by organized male-dominated religions and philosophy. Wars for thousands of years, multiple invasions and tribal conflicts would plague Afrika to this day. Yet, Goddesses would survive among the Ashanti, Bantu, Dahomey (Amazons), Dogon, Nyabinghi, Masai, Yoruba, in Ghana, etc. in many forms It is known now that free Afrikans lived in the Americas and the Caribbean before and during The Middle Passage. Perhaps, this is how Voudon, Obeah and Santeriaalong with our Mother Goddess Oshun and Shakti among her many names.The most ancient Black Goddess Isis/ Auset would be re-discovered thousands of years later. Kali and Asherah rise as Goddesses in India and Sumeria but cultural prejudice would give them monstrous forms. The problem with both history and religion in the West, is that Euro-centricity tries to explain multiple divergent experiences in linear terms. What is most important to them, is the development of Western civilization.

not simply disappear with the destruction of temples and obscure references to Her in ‘sacred texts’ written by men (no matter how well-meaning). The compromise? Sacred concubines, prostitution, jezebels White supremacist ideology tries to and pagan whores.

indoctrinate students into a worldview that Afrika (still experiencing our own Holocaust) was dark and savage until civilized by European ‘Christian ‘ missionaries. The efforts of Roman Catholicism combined with slavery and colonialism would result in seemingly irreversible misconceptions. Michelangelo and Da Vinci (though Da Vinci worked independent of the Church) were the most famous of a host of European artists and sculptors who who would provide images of Anglicized biblical figures (see the ceiling of the Sistene Chapel). The historical Jesus and His mother- ‘The Virgin Mary’ is overshadowed to hide their ‘pagan’ precursors Isis/ Auset and Her Son Horus/ Heru. Islam, at the mercy of Arab prejudice against Black Afrikans cannot the reverence of 3 GoddessesAl’ Lat, Al’ Uzza and Manat named in its Surah 53: 19-20.Black intellectuals can be separated by either Eurocentric or Afrocentric worldviews. This is not the place to compare and contrast- only mentioned because students of Afrikan history should be conscious of differing agendas among scholastic ‘authorities’. My concern today is that Black

Aquarius Khan

Resurrection

At its most complete, Afro-centricity is concerned with the rise of our people that we might be the most effective in helping all of humanity to rise. This is the context in which a Mother Goddess is most significant- that the imbalances between the sexes, between races, between classes, between political and religious ideologies- are all connected to ‘The Fall of Man’. In this, women are the symbols of the greatest suffering and salvation. As a man, I’m limited in imagining what fully liberated women might write in their own scriptures. Their priestesses must be free from the dictates of men. My efforts as son, brother and prince is to contend with the forces oppressing them. In this sense, and in the name of our Father- I am a soul rebel and warrior. For Black Muslim women, the question leads to to the significance of ALLAH’s 3 daughters- I would hope that this enlightenment of Muslim women would strengthen Islam. For black Christian women, history, politics and religion demand to be re-defined. Power structures will always be resistant to change- but a change in the people would create a new type of power structure (new generations). This is not blasphemy, The most faith religious scholars feel compelled to act upon hard truths. You are not going to rid the world of religion- yet, you do possess the potential to transform and sermons and church services to better serve God, Goddess and their children (us). This, my beloved would be revolutionary...

Goddess

women view all the evidence stated here- and wonder about all that couldn’t be stated here. Along with their individual and collective trials and triumphs, enough has been and will continue to be written about her proud stance and stature- her multitudinous hairstyles- her sassiness- the arch in her back- the fullness of her lips- those legendary hips- her mothering skills and sexual prowess. Yet, what does goddess mean anymore if it applies also to supermodels, actress and porn stars? The Mother Goddess must become sacred again- the Divine Feminine- Mother of mothers and Queen of queens.

No Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Land

Graffiti Art

JSP

Mamas Making Moves Interview with Ms. Erica L. Moore

Jayne Phlow aka Tiffany Glover

Who out there can always use some strong, sound financial advice? (raising my hand) Oh, you too? Fabulous! That’s just what I thought! That’s why for this month’s MAMAS MAKIN’ MOVES column, I selected Erica L. Moore, financial adviser and Founder/CEO of Women With Solutions, Inc. (WWS) based here in Charleston, SC. When I tell you this woman knows her money, that’s not an understatement! If you ever had any doubt that solid money management was a necessity for your daily life, I hope this interview changes your mind:

ME: You are the Founder and CEO of Women With Solutions, Inc. (WWS) Please tell us about your organizations and the various services it provides.

ERICA: Women With Solutions, Inc. is a nonprofit faith based organization serving our community through the Business Marketplace, Life Mentorship, Spiritual Enrichment and Financial Awareness. We aspire to strengthen each person's confidence - at every point in life, and encourage development through classes, workshops, seminars, conferences and services in our church and community.

ME: Now from the Financial Awareness aspect, how does WWS provide greater financial savvy-ness for those who may be struggling in that area?

ERICA: We provide basic financial training, instructing, consulting, analyzing and coaching using basic Biblical principles in the areas of spending, budgeting, credit, insurance, business management and financial portfolios through our Moore Money Management™ training and we just recently added the Bills, Beverage and Brunch™ workshop where we create a fun way to enjoy tackling debt.

ME: Those are the types of services that we can definitely ALL use! Money management is not something that everybody takes to with a smile on their face, especially when it's so much more...

fun to run out and buy all 5 of those pairs of shoes you've had your eye on. How open are people to taking full advantage of those courses?

ERICA: As much as it is needed JP, most people don't like to invest in prevention, but will pay for solving the problems they are having. For instance, some will go without regular check ups but will readily pay for hospital care if something is wrong, which is fine because we like to offer both prevention AND solutions. We aspire to help in aiding our clients or attendees on working towards getting on track so that they can achieve some of their financial goals. Most of us desire to be out of debt, accumulate wealth, or even perhaps go on those dream vacations, just to name a few. ME: And that's something I've always said. We complain about how expensive it is to live a healthy lifestyle but will pay the doctors and hospitals out the rear end when the consequences of living unhealthy arise. I'm sure you service all age groups, so have you noticed more resistance to change from one age group as opposed to another? ERICA: It varies based on that individual and their circumstances whether or not they are resistant, from my experience. ME: What are some of those circumstances? ERICA: Most people that are usually most likely to resistant are those that don't really understand the whole concept of managing their money and not allowing their money to manage them. In relation to how money works, for the most part, it’s because of the lack of knowledge of the dangers of debt. Most people that live from paycheck to paycheck are comfortable “getting by,” and when something out of the ordinary happens, they are often more open to receive help. And there are some that just tend to look for a quick fix versus trying to work on a permanent fix because they don't understand that they do have options. Usually when younger people are exposed to money management early, they are more conscious about their spending, budgeting, and/or saving. I have found that more older adults’ money concerns are a little different because by a certain age, they are more concerned about protecting and investing what they have already built and how they can get a better return on their money for retirement. ME: Now speaking of exposing younger people to money management skills, I know that you are the mother of 4 awesome children, 2 who are adults and 2 younger children. How did you instill these values in them and are they still using those skills in their daily lives? ERICA: My kids have been exposed through knowledge and application. They have also experienced how I made money decisions when things were good and bad. One valuable...

principle that I have instilled in them is that they have to work for EVERYTHING. I usually have an allowance or reward system in place and I tell them they have to work to even live with me...its called chores, (as long as they have been old enough to understand.) I tell them no one is allowed to live for free in my house. I provide the basic necessities; however, if they want upgrades (such as plasma TV’s, video games; etc) they have to earn it. I taught them when they get money, to save some, give some and spend some. I always make them accountable by asking what their plans are with the money. They don't get a whole lot of gifts for Christmas and birthdays. I am very frugal and would rather invest in helping others or in an experience versus a toy that they will play with for 2 days. They also understood that mommy is a business woman and when we needed to downsize, everything was for sale, except for them. They understand that we should place more value on people versus things. They have seen it and heard it, but two of my kids, I don't believe have it quite yet, and it has nothing to do with age because one is older and one is younger. Two of them I know they get it and understand it, but I still believe that they all will at some point and will implement what they’ve learned. I still think it’s too early to judge since they all still live with mommy and are still living by mommy’s rules. ME: I agree 1000% with ALL of this. It's not always an easy task but I do the same thing with my son. People automatically assume that because he's my only child, he's spoiled. But I taught him very early on that because we have to stretch our money farther than most, we have to budget to get the most out of any and every experience. I will NEVER spend $200 on a pair of shoes for him, but I have no problem using that $200 towards something like a cool vacation for us. Instilling those values in our kids is one thing, but have you ever found yourself in an awkward position with a friend or family member, who you KNEW was spending far above their means, and you had to make a decision to say something to them or not? If you did speak up, was the advice received well, or did you get the side-eye like "girl I am NOT one of your clients" lol? ERICA: Jayne it’s great that you have instilled those values in your child, and he will forever have the wisdom to carry and pass it along to those who lives he will impact. Yes people always assume your situation is their situation, but everyone's situation is different. I only offer my input to family or friends when it they come to me for assistance. Most know that if they come to me they will get a speech because they know what I stand for. Although I have a burning desire to help and offer advice, I try to respect everyone's position with their finances. I give the information so that they can make a more educated and informed decision; I will plant seeds when I can and pray that some day it will benefit them. Sometimes I don't see the results right away because I understand that some seeds take a little time to grow. What is rewarding for me is to see those that apply the principles living a more productive life as a result of their financial transformation. ME: You have a very special event coming up in September. Tell us about and the concept behind it...

ERICA: Every year we host an event called "Flavors of Success" Business Gala. With this event, we promote local businesses by featuring and giving exposure to local start up businesses and small businesses, with a portion of the proceeds being used to provide local business with a scholarship/certificate/plaque that has implemented our services and/or exceptional progress/growth toward their business. There is also live Music and Entertainment, Catered Food, Great People and Networking with a Great Atmosphere. ME: Well I missed it last year so you already KNOW I'll be there this year and I'm very excited about it. Please let our readers know exactly when it is and how they can purchase tickets. ERICA: We are certainly looking forward to you joining us and thanks JP please visit our website at www.womenwithsolutions.com for more information and tickets. ME: Awesome! And before we close, please let everyone know how to contact you with additional financial questions or for more information on your workshops and seminars. ERICA: They can connect with us on Facebook at Women With Solutions, Inc. or follow me on twitter @ladyericamoore and also via email at www.ladyericamoore.com for additional questions and information. ME: Wonderful Erica! Thank you so much for sharing this awesome and very beneficial information with us. It's appreciated and I have no doubt it'll be used. ERICA: Thanks hon and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re welcome! I pray it does. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad I could help and congrats on your new business ventures.

Interview by Jayne Phlow aka Tiffany

Mamas Making Moves

Featured Poet: Brotha Amir Brotha Amir hails from the "Windy City " Chicago. He wrote his first poem in fifth grade to a girl that soon became his girl friend afterwards. During the same year he wrote his second poem because she broke up with him for another guy in the same class. Since then Brotha Amir hasn't been shy about putting pen to pad sharing his thoughts, feelings & creating poetical stories ranging from erotica, to love, to revolution. He refers to his vibe as HerbnSoul. The raw essence that bonds our taste & individualizes our creativity. This year he wrote his first book titled "Time & Circumstance Memoirs Of A Frustrated B Boy". This book is a must read for anyone that at a minimum loves poetry but loves life. Brotha Amir's love for poetry inspired him to host an open mic radio show on talkshoe.com called "HerbnSoul Radio Pass The Mic" showcasing some of the most talented poets from coast to coast. In his home town, he hosts an open mic show on the first & last Friday of the month called HerbnSoul Radio@The Scentuary. Later on this year he will be releasing his first CD "Poetrees".

A few songs from the soon to be released CD Poetrees are available on SOUNDCLOUD for you to get a taste of Brotha Amirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy. Titles such as "You Get What You Ask For" produced & written by HerbnSoul, "Take It Off" produced by Tony Ozier & written by HerbnSoul, & "The Ride" produced by Mona Bode & written by HerbnSoul.

Beyond his talent, Brotha Amir has a powerful sexy, sultry & sensuous voice that creates a certain type of energy when the ladies hear him. He believes he has been blessed with the gift of writing poetry & he will continue to honor that gift.

Poetrees

Evolution

Brotha Amir I want to be a better father cuz my sons depend on me Their mother is raising them but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my direction that navigates their journey They deserve more I want to be a better man today than I was yesterday in order to acquire some things I've never had before like True Happiness The Experience of Bliss A Long Lasting Loving Relationship I want to be more Eloquent Intelligent Humble in the midst of Admiration But Fierce with my gift Leaving those that witness it in Amazement I want to be a better man today than I was yesterday www.talkshoe.com

I want to be a better man today than I was yesterday I want to be Smarter Quicker Deeper & Eager to share of myself cuz today there is more of me to share I want to be wiser Sitting on a higher plane I want a better understanding of my feelings Producing a better way to process my Pain Disappointment Rejection Resentment I want to manage my time better so I don't have to wonder where the time went I want to love Stronger Harder More selflessly

New Poetry CD COMING SOON!!!

Old Jail House Rock

Meeting Of The...

It Was On My Mind! Niggas and Feeling

WE MUST UNITE TO SURVIVE

Muhjahid Qahhar

I have noticed, the more intellectual we become as black Americans, the more difficult it becomes for us to work together. If not more difficult, it does not get any easier, and this is strange. The more so-called conscious we become, the more difficult it is to actually unite for a common cause. Not all of us, but the majority. This too is strange. Seems no amount of knowledge, mental or spiritual growth conquers this ego of ours. This need we have to be right. This desire to outshine your brother when we should be wanting them to shine like us. So they will produce offspring compatible and safe for our offspring. So they will build businesses empathetic to us and our economic future. This can only mean most of us are not becoming wiser, we're merely being trained...and we're confusing it with real intelligence. Intelligence is what white people use. What Jews and Asians use. The thought process that helps them to unify when necessary. No matter their differences, like bees they unite when the hive (species) is threatened.

WE DON'T. They never forget the fundamental thing they have in common; their race.

WE FORGET.

We will fight for the rights of anyone, for any cause, except for the survival of our species. The pettiest shit will be latched on to to justify not unifying with your brother or sistah. And truth be told, the things we defend and fight for are really enemies to our culture and survival as a species. So we're actually wasting time and energy fighting ourselves. With all the wars white people have going on, they still manage to run the world. NO MATTER HOW MUCH TENSION AND DISAGREEMENT IS PRESENT, HE NEVER PUTS YOUR BLACK ASS BEFORE HIS EUROPEAN BROTHER, no matter what part of the world he resides...though he may have grown up around you. We have it twisted. We are dying away, being murdered away, rotting in prison; were being erased right before our own eyes. Tonight I am just tired...but I will be up and at it again bright and early, ARMY STRONG. Doing my part, further preparing my two youngest children and figuring a way to make more time for my older children, nieces and nephews. To some extent I am failing them. WE ARE FAILING THEM. If I do nothing else I will do that, and it is a contribution to our future. What will your contribution be, because we need one from YOU. YOUR FEELINGS AIN'T THAT IMPORTANT. Trust me, your feelings will not matter when we're gone. Intelligence does not breed division. We're black, looked at as black, judged by our complexion, we face the same discrimination, racism, unfairness and dangers. We should always be able to unite on that basis.

Muhjahid Qahhar

May Is Awareness Month Who do you think you are Who do you think you are coming in trying to take over my life? Constant test and countless times under the knife I remember all of the days you tried to just take me I have way too many people praying for healing did u miss the memo? Can't you see Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve messed with my white counts and cause me extreme amounts of pain I'm a child of God you can't claim my life so what's the point? What do you have to gain?

Ebonee Oliver (Author KS Oliver) Mother of two, author, model, Business owner and LUPUS SURVIVOR

So when pain didn't work you decided to hit me where it hurt, my self-esteem Taking away my pretty girl defense when my skin was clear and clean Then a few months later putting the shortness of breath to the test A mass on the lungs shown with an X ray of the chest In a major flare for the next 122 days Trying to break my faith in several ways Another go round with the constant nerve ache So excruciating the best actress couldn't fake One more try you sent my body into shock It came and went with no explanation not even from the Er doc So let me tell you Satan once more stay under my feet where you need to be I promise you will have no victories with me... KS Oliver

BlaqRayn Presents: Nakesha Williams in

KESHA THE MODEL

I met Nakesha Williams in a poetry group on Facebook...she is an awesome poet and chance brought us this opportunity to work together in the Mag and showcase just a sampling of her fantastic work as a model...creativity flows from her pen; now you get the have the full VISUAL EFFECT!!!

ENJOY!

24 Kim: How long have you been a part of the industry/business? Kesha:I've actually been modeling since I was 15yrs old. I participated in Ms. Teen Washington Dc Pageant in 1992 and placed as one of the top ten finalist. I, then, participated in several fashion shows and print work but shortly took a break from it because of personal reasons. I recently just started back modeling 2 yrs ago after an almost 15yr break. I can definitely say that my love for it has never left. Kim: How did you get your start? Kesha: My God-sister was a super model overseas and I guess my Godmother saw it in me that I should be a model as well. She suggested that I enter into the Miss Teen Washington DD and try to be Miss Teen USA. With her backing me up, I felt unstoppable. So I tried out for it. It was the most amazing experience! After that, that was all she wrote! I knew what I was destined to be! Kim: If you will, give me one pro and one con you have found in this industry. Kesha: Pros and Cons.. Pros.. I enjoy doing it. That’s my pro. When you can go to a job and you would do it even if you didn’t get paid.. .that’s the benefit of it all... Being happy. You're doing something you love so it makes it that much better.. Also If you know the right people, got the right look.. You can go far. It is beneficial to continually network and get your name and face out there. Cons.. You have to be careful of who you photograph and work with. You can easily waste your time and people can get over on you. You can easily sell yourself short. There are a lot of so called photographers that promise you the world but don’t have it to actually give and have absolutely no leverage, let alone can't actually shoot and are of no benefit to you and your career.

Kim: Has this always been a lifelong dream or something that happened unexpectedly? Kesha: I’ve always wanted to be a model since I saw Naomi Campbell hit the runway when I was young teenager. Supermodel IMAN is my favorite model of all time and I even named my daughter after her. Timeless beauty she has. I admired her and I always wanted to be just like them both. Kim: With whom have you had the pleasure of working? Kesha: I have had the great pleasure of working with a few awesome photographers, namely one in particular, Andre Dunston of Epic Media photography, my current photographer. He is AWESOME in every sense of the word and has an eye for art that you wouldn't believe. Also, Raffi Hughey of Carveli Studios, who create comic strips/books using human characters in the strip where I play a character named Konsta Rantala. The first comic series of my character has just been released on print May 16, 2014. Also had the pleasure of working with photographer Caesar and also Pedro Bauza, both highly established photographers nationally.. Kim: People see the glitz and glamour, but how hard is the work? Kesha: The work.. Oh My! Hours upon hours of shooting in the cold, rain, snow, sleet, heat, whether your sleepy or not feeling your best.. you have to deliver your best. Poses.. People would be amazed at what we have to do to get that most amazing pose! Catch cramps and carpel tunnel, Hang off of buildings.. oh yes, I’ve done it all, lol. But it’s all worth it when you get that finished product. Kim: If you weren't doing what you do, what do you think would be your chosen profession? Kesha: A poet. Which I am currently and am publishing my first book of poetry due out this year. Writing actually is my first love. I’ve been writing poetry since I was 17. There is an undeniable level of depth and sensuality in my writings and I’m in love with my pen and pad.

Kim: Who and what inspires you? Kesha: Love, sensuality and passion inspires me. I cannot shoot with a photographer who doesn’t have an artistic creative eye and doesn’t have an open mind. I love artistic flow, I love vibe. If me and the photographer mesh. Oh my. Its like heaven. Endless possibilities as to where it can go. There have been the most amazing images created just from pure vibe. No theme planned. Just sheer vibe. Kim: What is your advice to anyone trying to succeed in this industry? Kesha: While I am still trying to find my place in this industry, I will say Be careful, Don’t waste your time with photographers who can't be of any benefit to you. Research first, look at their work. Network and market yourself constantly. And don’t do it if you're willing to invest in yourself. Why would anyone want to invest in someone who doesn’t even want to invest in themselves. Kim: Any words of encouragement or shout outs you would like to add? Kesha: Shout out to My photographer Andre Dunston of Epic Media Photography. Also to Raffi Hughey of Carveli Studios. My children Mone, Iman, Savion, Jasmine and Bria and also my grandbaby Jade. They are my everything!

Thank you Nakesha “Kesha The Model” Williams for sharing your world with us and allowing us a glimpse of the “you” behind the camera as well as in front of.

Photographs courtesy of EMP, Revealed, and Nakesha Williams