Often times I found myself in non-work related discussions with members of the office and today was a day of imparting a little wisdom on finding a husband. One of the ladies stated that she prayed and asked for specific qualities in her potential mate. After being relieved from a tumultuous marriage, she was a bit apprehensive about entering the dating arena. She had registered with Match.com and was unlucky in love. She decided to give it one more try but beforehand she prayed for what she wanted. Her prayers were answered the next time she logged onto the site. The perfect match was revealed, at least what she prayed for.
My discussions with other women searching for the “right” man have solidified the notion that you must be careful of what you pray for, at least for me. It is best that you write a list before praying lest you miss something. The list should include the good qualities that you want and those that you do not want. You see that “free will” can get you into trouble. You see you will be granted the desires of your heart but know that some desires come with problems. For instance, if the qualities you ask for are a good, kind, and loving man. You may receive a man who is good at being kind to other women and loving them. Not quite what one was expecting. You see the joke, oh yes the joke, is “free will”. You see, I often tell the Lord how funny He is. Especially when He allows me to get my way, knowing darn well that it isn’t for me. But, does He say anything – Oh no! Actually the question is, did I listen to what He was trying to tell me – NOPE! I wanted it and was determined to get it and He said, oh well, here you go. Remember you asked for it. Ha-ha.
Just think of the times where you just had to have that man. Mmm, mmm good is all you could think of. He’s so fine; well dressed, has a good job; and such a gentleman. While you’re caught up in all that you miss all the signs of doggishness. You see the Lord revealed the true man to you but you ignored it. Didn’t want to see, hear or speak of the evil. You just gotta have it. Well now you’ve got it and a trip to the doctor, in my case, or lawyer to get rid of it. Yes he was everything you wanted and a bag a stale chips. I digress, just had to get that off. I feel better now.
Let’s compare some scripture. I prefer to read the King James version of the Bible but when you look at the New Living Translation it is very evident that you will get what you ask for.
KJ Mt 7:7 - Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
NLT Mt 7:7 - Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened.
I grew up with the KJ version and this verse led me to believe that what ever I asked for shall be granted unto me, see I even speak King James – lol, but what I receive in the NLT version is that is if keep on asking (and get on his nerves) he will give it to me. The same goes for the seek and knock portions of the scripture. (Wow! This would make a great topic for a sermon. JeNette would be so proud of me. I need to call her). I remember when I was a child and I wanted some candy. I would ask my mother for it and she would say no, I couldn’t have it because it wasn’t any good for me. I didn’t hear that. I just heard no, I couldn’t have it and moped off to another room or aisle of the store. Ms. Joyce didn’t allow temper tantrums or the sucking of ones teeth. So a little while later I would ask her again and she would say, no it’s going to give you cavities. What’s a little boy to do. The candy bar was calling me. It looked so good and I knew it would taste good. I just had to have it so I asked one more time. This time I had gotten on her nerves and she said go ahead. Hurray for me that is until my visit to the dentist. Turns out those candy bars that I managed to get my way with did give me cavities and the dentist drill was doggish on my teeth. I kept asking my mother for the candy, and I got what I asked for including the consequences after being forewarned.
This comparison of the different translations of scripture could go on and on but time is drawing nigh for sleep (11:40 PM). Brother has to get up in the morning. I’ll make the next part quick.
The other woman indicated that she found and choose her man. I simply corrected her by telling her it is not her job to find a man with a paraphrase of the scripture below. She should pray that the Lord send the man that He intends for her to her and the man will find her.
KJ Pv 18:22 - Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.
NLT Pv 18:22 - The man who finds a wife finds a treasure and receives favor from the LORD.
Ok, enough rambling for one night.
Good night Eddie.
Sharing Me With You
- ECagelove
- Amsterdam, New York, United States
- May 10, 2010 my RCA (right coronary artery) was blocked and I experienced a heart attack two days before my 49th birthday. Now I can add CAD to my list of living with diseases. Life is to short, it's time to live it. Sharing my escapades and life lessons.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Extra, Extra...
Working as an "Extra" today in the Empire State College commercial filming was great. This is the second performance piece I've been in this year. I didn't realize how much I enjoyed it. I've never been in a commercial before or experienced filming. I have a new found respect for film actors. All the takes to get the right shot. I've got the "acting bug" again. Just hope it's not to late.
Peyton sent an email indicating she wanted to do another run of "No Earthly Good" in June and she's sent the cast the partial script for her next play. This would be a perfect opportunity to brush up on my skills. Especially, since line memorization is a killer for me.
I need to make a list of things that I need to do to prepare to re-enter the acting the field. The are plenty of community theatres in the area. Let's see, I'll need head shots and a theatrical resume. Network with local actors and performers. Take in as many plays as I can. Check the trades for open calls. Oh yeah, win the lottery. :)
I keep replaying the day in my head over and over again. I think I may have missed a connection. There was a staffer at the location who when we first made eye contact that moment of delight displayed in his eyes along with a bright smile. I blew it off until the continuous stolen glances. Hmm, what's going on here. Then while shooting my scene with Mallory, the director asked the staffers to clear the weeds from the steps after a few takes. Mal and I offered to help but the crew indicated that we were actors not crew members. Mal and I continued in conversation and I jokingly indicated that I should have and apple as a prop. Well Mr. Staff, that was on the back of his T-Shirt, excitedly interjected that he had an apple and he would get it for me. He thought I was hungry but I indicated that I wanted to use it as a prop. Mal and I finished our scene on the steps and we went to the next location to prepare for the next scene.
The director wanted the "Extras" in the first scene to change shirts and hair styles. I was resigned not to have a prop and out of nowhere Mr. Staff appeared with an apple and a bright smile. "I got the apple for you", he said. He seemed so proud that he was able to do that for me. "Thanks dude", I replied with a smile and the thing I do with my eyes when there not hidden behind glasses. "You didn't have to do that". He blushed and said, "No problem." Being the professional that I am, I turned my attention to the task at hand and asked the Extras which blue shirt I should change into. The makeup artist recommended the solid blue and advised that I should be careful not to get makeup on my shirt. She proceeded to give instructions on how to put the shirt on and then said, “Oh, you know how to do it.” She realized that I had some acting experience when she was applying my makeup and I was knowledgeable about the Mac products. I think she was impressed when I inquired about translucent powder to take down the shine on my face. I wanted to tell her that RuPaul only uses Mac, but I kept that little tidbit to myself.
I have to work on not missing connections. I tend to realize it after the fact instead of in the moment. :(
Peyton sent an email indicating she wanted to do another run of "No Earthly Good" in June and she's sent the cast the partial script for her next play. This would be a perfect opportunity to brush up on my skills. Especially, since line memorization is a killer for me.
I need to make a list of things that I need to do to prepare to re-enter the acting the field. The are plenty of community theatres in the area. Let's see, I'll need head shots and a theatrical resume. Network with local actors and performers. Take in as many plays as I can. Check the trades for open calls. Oh yeah, win the lottery. :)
I keep replaying the day in my head over and over again. I think I may have missed a connection. There was a staffer at the location who when we first made eye contact that moment of delight displayed in his eyes along with a bright smile. I blew it off until the continuous stolen glances. Hmm, what's going on here. Then while shooting my scene with Mallory, the director asked the staffers to clear the weeds from the steps after a few takes. Mal and I offered to help but the crew indicated that we were actors not crew members. Mal and I continued in conversation and I jokingly indicated that I should have and apple as a prop. Well Mr. Staff, that was on the back of his T-Shirt, excitedly interjected that he had an apple and he would get it for me. He thought I was hungry but I indicated that I wanted to use it as a prop. Mal and I finished our scene on the steps and we went to the next location to prepare for the next scene.
The director wanted the "Extras" in the first scene to change shirts and hair styles. I was resigned not to have a prop and out of nowhere Mr. Staff appeared with an apple and a bright smile. "I got the apple for you", he said. He seemed so proud that he was able to do that for me. "Thanks dude", I replied with a smile and the thing I do with my eyes when there not hidden behind glasses. "You didn't have to do that". He blushed and said, "No problem." Being the professional that I am, I turned my attention to the task at hand and asked the Extras which blue shirt I should change into. The makeup artist recommended the solid blue and advised that I should be careful not to get makeup on my shirt. She proceeded to give instructions on how to put the shirt on and then said, “Oh, you know how to do it.” She realized that I had some acting experience when she was applying my makeup and I was knowledgeable about the Mac products. I think she was impressed when I inquired about translucent powder to take down the shine on my face. I wanted to tell her that RuPaul only uses Mac, but I kept that little tidbit to myself.
I have to work on not missing connections. I tend to realize it after the fact instead of in the moment. :(
In The Beginning
The operating room was filled with the sound of the heart monitor beeping steadily at regular intervals as Joyce lie on the operating table. You could here the hissing of the breathing apparatus as she inhaled and exhaled. This was not a normal cesarean section birth. The baby was close to four weeks overdue and in danger of being still born. The doctor had decided after several false alarms to go in and extract the little tyke. It appeared that baby Cage didn’t want to meet the world. Why would he? Conceived before the nuptials, the tyke attended the wedding. His conception set the stage for Joyce’s misery.
She fell in love with a man in uniform. He literally swept her off her feet. Edward G. Cage was a militarily strapping young man weighing in close to 180 lbs of muscle, 6’ 1” and handsome. He had that “good” processed hair and wore the popular Negro male style of the 50’s. He could have been the cover model for a “Military Today” magazine. His civilian attire made your mouth water. The ladies felt faint in his presence and Joyce was no exception. The little country girl who was raised on a cow farm in Chatham, NY, couldn’t resist his charm.
Sonny, as he was called, wasn’t like the city boys of Albany. He had style and charm. He was a gentleman. Actually, he was more like a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Joyce was naïve to his ulterior motives. Sonny was determined to add Joyce to his collection, another badge on his uniform, the proverbial notch on his belt. He knew that Joyce could not handle alcohol and one night he proceeded to get her drunk, just enough to make her more receptive to his advances. It worked and in December of 1960 they were married. The romantic ending would be that Sonny married Joyce because he was so in love with her but the truth is: …whack, whaaa, the baby screams.
Dr.: Time.
Nurse: 3:55 pm doctor.
Dr.: Male, baby Cage born May 12, 1961, weight, 7lbs. 8 oz., length 21 inches. Place him in the incubator. Take Mrs. Cage to the recovery room.
Nurse: Yes, doctor.
Yes, I was at the wedding! Just look closely at Joyce and you can see. I was there. It took me almost forty years to figure it out. I was always a little slow in math. I can’t even balance a checkbook. I’ll discuss more of my shortcomings at a later time.
As you can see Sonny was a very handsome man. Look at the eyes, chiseled jaw line and cheekbones. Strength is written on his face. He has a look of seduction with the expression of, “it wasn’t my choice, but I’m here”. Was this a happy occasion? It should have been, Joyce is smiling.
Born in Halifax, Virginia, he had a sister Lois, and by all accounts he was a mama’s boy spoiled to the core. He completed the eighth grade and decided school wasn’t for him. Yes, my daddy was a drop out who could barely read. He relied on his charm and good looks to get him by. He had a quick temper due to his lack of education. The military was the answer to Louise’s prayers. He served in Korea, but the military couldn’t control Sonny either. He was discharged dishonorably. The exact reason is unknown. At least that was the story.
Joyce Grimes was born in Chatham, NY. Her grandmother, “Big Nanny” raised her with her seventeen aunts and uncles. The bastard child of Hannah Grimes was born very sickly. The oven in Big Nanny’s house was used as her incubator. Joyce did not know Hannah as her mother until years later. She didn’t know who her birth father was until years after his death. Joyce somehow survived her ailments and frailties and had an active childhood.
The little country girl, after graduation, would go to the big city (Albany, NY) with her best friend. They would hang out at the Albany hot spot. Joyce met Sonny during one of her escapades to the city. The man in uniform caused Joyce’s heart to go pitter patter. The tall slender, handsome man caught her eye. She was in trouble and did even know it. The courtship ensued and Sonny knew he was going to get some of the sweet stuff. He just had to bide his time. His intentions were to hit it and run.
There’s a saying, “the eyes are the window to your soul” and Joyce, well, she was in love. She couldn’t see through his rose colored glasses which hid his true intentions. In the wedding picture you can see in Sonny’s eyes the expression, “I’m not here by choice.” Sonny manipulated the situation and got Joyce drunk. He knew she couldn’t hold her liquor and a few drinks is all it would take to make her vulnerable to seduction. The plan was made and the trap was set and Joyce was snared. Sonny’s one night of pleasure turned into a life time of aggravation. He didn’t intend to leave anything behind. He caught his prey, but the table was turned. He was snared by his own trap. A child was not in the plan, but here I am. Unto them a child was born, Edward Emil Cagé. Actually, Cage, I changed the name to Cagé later.
Because of me, Sonny was forced to do the honorable thing. I’m not saying it was a gunshot wedding. I’m just observing his facial expression in the picture. Does he look happy to you? It looks a little forced to me, but hey, we never talked about his marriage to my mother. In fact we never talked about much of anything. OK, just relax; this isn’t the rag on my daddy section. The truth shall speak for itself.
She fell in love with a man in uniform. He literally swept her off her feet. Edward G. Cage was a militarily strapping young man weighing in close to 180 lbs of muscle, 6’ 1” and handsome. He had that “good” processed hair and wore the popular Negro male style of the 50’s. He could have been the cover model for a “Military Today” magazine. His civilian attire made your mouth water. The ladies felt faint in his presence and Joyce was no exception. The little country girl who was raised on a cow farm in Chatham, NY, couldn’t resist his charm.
Sonny, as he was called, wasn’t like the city boys of Albany. He had style and charm. He was a gentleman. Actually, he was more like a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Joyce was naïve to his ulterior motives. Sonny was determined to add Joyce to his collection, another badge on his uniform, the proverbial notch on his belt. He knew that Joyce could not handle alcohol and one night he proceeded to get her drunk, just enough to make her more receptive to his advances. It worked and in December of 1960 they were married. The romantic ending would be that Sonny married Joyce because he was so in love with her but the truth is: …whack, whaaa, the baby screams.
Dr.: Time.
Nurse: 3:55 pm doctor.
Dr.: Male, baby Cage born May 12, 1961, weight, 7lbs. 8 oz., length 21 inches. Place him in the incubator. Take Mrs. Cage to the recovery room.
Nurse: Yes, doctor.
Yes, I was at the wedding! Just look closely at Joyce and you can see. I was there. It took me almost forty years to figure it out. I was always a little slow in math. I can’t even balance a checkbook. I’ll discuss more of my shortcomings at a later time.
Born in Halifax, Virginia, he had a sister Lois, and by all accounts he was a mama’s boy spoiled to the core. He completed the eighth grade and decided school wasn’t for him. Yes, my daddy was a drop out who could barely read. He relied on his charm and good looks to get him by. He had a quick temper due to his lack of education. The military was the answer to Louise’s prayers. He served in Korea, but the military couldn’t control Sonny either. He was discharged dishonorably. The exact reason is unknown. At least that was the story.
Joyce Grimes was born in Chatham, NY. Her grandmother, “Big Nanny” raised her with her seventeen aunts and uncles. The bastard child of Hannah Grimes was born very sickly. The oven in Big Nanny’s house was used as her incubator. Joyce did not know Hannah as her mother until years later. She didn’t know who her birth father was until years after his death. Joyce somehow survived her ailments and frailties and had an active childhood.
The little country girl, after graduation, would go to the big city (Albany, NY) with her best friend. They would hang out at the Albany hot spot. Joyce met Sonny during one of her escapades to the city. The man in uniform caused Joyce’s heart to go pitter patter. The tall slender, handsome man caught her eye. She was in trouble and did even know it. The courtship ensued and Sonny knew he was going to get some of the sweet stuff. He just had to bide his time. His intentions were to hit it and run.
There’s a saying, “the eyes are the window to your soul” and Joyce, well, she was in love. She couldn’t see through his rose colored glasses which hid his true intentions. In the wedding picture you can see in Sonny’s eyes the expression, “I’m not here by choice.” Sonny manipulated the situation and got Joyce drunk. He knew she couldn’t hold her liquor and a few drinks is all it would take to make her vulnerable to seduction. The plan was made and the trap was set and Joyce was snared. Sonny’s one night of pleasure turned into a life time of aggravation. He didn’t intend to leave anything behind. He caught his prey, but the table was turned. He was snared by his own trap. A child was not in the plan, but here I am. Unto them a child was born, Edward Emil Cagé. Actually, Cage, I changed the name to Cagé later.
Because of me, Sonny was forced to do the honorable thing. I’m not saying it was a gunshot wedding. I’m just observing his facial expression in the picture. Does he look happy to you? It looks a little forced to me, but hey, we never talked about his marriage to my mother. In fact we never talked about much of anything. OK, just relax; this isn’t the rag on my daddy section. The truth shall speak for itself.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Snack Time
Got home from work and decided to have a snack. Jazzy apparently likes peaches. She did pretty well with her two bottom front teeth just coming in. That's my girl! Fresh fruit not out of the jar. :)
Learning to share was the lesson for the evening.
Learning to share was the lesson for the evening.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
JJ Rafferty's Video Playlist
JUNE 24, 2010
10:55 PM
What a time we had! Can't wait to do it again. Nee already has me learning a song for a duet.
Enjoy the playlist.
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL66BD1AB0FB4FA03C&feature=edit_ok
10:55 PM
What a time we had! Can't wait to do it again. Nee already has me learning a song for a duet.
Enjoy the playlist.
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL66BD1AB0FB4FA03C&feature=edit_ok
Re-Connection
I'm so glad that Nee and I have reconnected. We've been emailing each other all week and learning quite a bit about each other. You could say we are almost twins.
This is a new journey for me. I've been on journeys for the past eighteen months or so. Perhaps JeNette is right. The Ministry of Identifying. I've been connecting and reconnecting with people who are need of someone who is compassionate with their situation; with those who are experiencing things that I have already experienced; coming to terms with issues that I have already came to terms with. I just wanted to be a choir director but you can't direct a choir if you aren't a member of a church. That season is over.
Lita text me. What a surprise. I was glad to hear from here. I really enjoyed hanging with her and her friends Friday night. I told her to tell them I said hey even though I couldn't remember there names at the time. That Gabe is a cutie!
I've got a feeling that I'll hear from Takia before the week is out. My girls are so sweet. I may have lost my mother but I've gained three beautiful cousins who fill me with so much joy. Thank you father.
I was thinking about my girl Trina in Philly on the way home so I called and left a message. She emailed me and informed me that her family is dealing with death again and she is on her way south. I felt she was going through this again.
What is going on with me. I'm feeling things that I'm not usually in tune with. I need to contact JeNette, my spiritual sister in NJ and my God Son's mom, and find out what is happening to me. I already know what she's going to say. My spiritual antenna is receiving signals and I should be careful. I'm tuned into the right frequency and the static has been lifted. Warfare is about to commence. This always seems to happen when I have a near death experience. The heart attack was the third one in my adult life and I must say just like the one before I was more at peace with the situation. I guess because I knew if I died, my sister is here to find me. I'm right upstairs. Unlike before when I lived alone in NJ.
Whatever path He has me on now, I guess I better stay put. No more running. But, am I ready? I know what JeNette goes through as an Evangelist, yet she remains steadfast even with her Lupus. Wait a minute, Aunt Betty suffers with Lupus as well and it doesn't stop Rev. Jay. What the heck is my problem? The scripture says to study to show thyself approved unto God. I have not studied, yet when I need a word He provides it or the means for me to find it. I mean just today He gave me just enough to actually Bing the phrase and find the scripture that was placed on my heart to impart on Nee. But what if I'm talking to someone and I'm not near a computer or have one of my gadgets with Internet access.
Now that was a stupid question, Edward. You talked someone of a ledge in college without quoting scripture. You identified with the person and spoke the truth to him, the raw unfiltered truth. Wow, come to think of it, I've been on this path for a long time. It is just becoming clearer to me that I am not lost. The spiritual me has always done the right thing. The carnal me was and is a distraction.
OK, this is getting a bit deep for me right now. I'm going to run from this like I always do and go to bed. The carnal me is just not ready. I'll probably toss and turn all night now.
This is a new journey for me. I've been on journeys for the past eighteen months or so. Perhaps JeNette is right. The Ministry of Identifying. I've been connecting and reconnecting with people who are need of someone who is compassionate with their situation; with those who are experiencing things that I have already experienced; coming to terms with issues that I have already came to terms with. I just wanted to be a choir director but you can't direct a choir if you aren't a member of a church. That season is over.
Lita text me. What a surprise. I was glad to hear from here. I really enjoyed hanging with her and her friends Friday night. I told her to tell them I said hey even though I couldn't remember there names at the time. That Gabe is a cutie!
I've got a feeling that I'll hear from Takia before the week is out. My girls are so sweet. I may have lost my mother but I've gained three beautiful cousins who fill me with so much joy. Thank you father.
I was thinking about my girl Trina in Philly on the way home so I called and left a message. She emailed me and informed me that her family is dealing with death again and she is on her way south. I felt she was going through this again.
What is going on with me. I'm feeling things that I'm not usually in tune with. I need to contact JeNette, my spiritual sister in NJ and my God Son's mom, and find out what is happening to me. I already know what she's going to say. My spiritual antenna is receiving signals and I should be careful. I'm tuned into the right frequency and the static has been lifted. Warfare is about to commence. This always seems to happen when I have a near death experience. The heart attack was the third one in my adult life and I must say just like the one before I was more at peace with the situation. I guess because I knew if I died, my sister is here to find me. I'm right upstairs. Unlike before when I lived alone in NJ.
Whatever path He has me on now, I guess I better stay put. No more running. But, am I ready? I know what JeNette goes through as an Evangelist, yet she remains steadfast even with her Lupus. Wait a minute, Aunt Betty suffers with Lupus as well and it doesn't stop Rev. Jay. What the heck is my problem? The scripture says to study to show thyself approved unto God. I have not studied, yet when I need a word He provides it or the means for me to find it. I mean just today He gave me just enough to actually Bing the phrase and find the scripture that was placed on my heart to impart on Nee. But what if I'm talking to someone and I'm not near a computer or have one of my gadgets with Internet access.
Now that was a stupid question, Edward. You talked someone of a ledge in college without quoting scripture. You identified with the person and spoke the truth to him, the raw unfiltered truth. Wow, come to think of it, I've been on this path for a long time. It is just becoming clearer to me that I am not lost. The spiritual me has always done the right thing. The carnal me was and is a distraction.
OK, this is getting a bit deep for me right now. I'm going to run from this like I always do and go to bed. The carnal me is just not ready. I'll probably toss and turn all night now.
Heart Attack…
THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2010
12:17 AM
(continued from June 15, 2010)
Gavac transported me to Ellis Hospital in record time. They called ahead and advised the cath unit that I was on my way. I was whisked immediately into the operating room. The attending physician went over the procedure. Indicating that a tube with a camera would inserted in the artery from my groin which leads to my heart. Once there he would look to see if the artery was clogged and if so he would insert a stint while he was there. There were three monitors on my left and I thought I would be awake and get a chance to see the procedure. A nurse stepped in and indicated that she would have to shave the insertion point. Of course I asked if she could just trim me up while she was there. I didn't just want to have a missing patch. She laughed and indicated that she would just shave the area of insertion. I smiled at her and looked over to my left at the monitors. The last thing I remember is thinking that she's going to make a mess of my pubes and I'll have to clean it up when I get home.
Someone slipped me a roofie! All prepared to watch the procedure what I got was; "keep your head down". WHAT! Keep my head down. I wanted to see what was on the monitor. As I surveyed my surroundings with my head down, I realized I was in the recovery room. No one told me I would be under anesthesia. A nurse came over to check my groin and began to apply pressure. Apparently, I was bleeding and I guess that was a bad thing. She called for more bandages and the other nurse became a little frantic. Was I supposed to worried? No, Edward wasn't a happy camper. I wanted to see the procedure. They stopped the bleeding and the one of the nurses asked if I was allergic to shell fish. "No, I love clams, lobster, and crab". She ordered some Benedryl, apparently I was having a reaction to the dye that was used to illuminate my artery. Oh well, what next.
I noticed it was close to noon and I told the nurse to call my sister at work. She asked me for her number and to my surprise I remembered it. I gave instructions to call her during lunch time because she works for Tax and Finance and they are really strict about personal calls. The nurse acknowledged and I must have drifted off to sleep. Awaken at 2:00 PM, the nurse asked is there was anyone they should contact tact. WHAT! “I thought you already called my sister at noon. She won’t be able to take a call now. Her agency is strict.” The nurse laughed at me. Did I say something funny? I was serious. She proceeded to call my sister. I told not to tell her I had a heart attack and what was the first thing out of her mouth; “hello, is this Jacqueline. Your brother, Edward had a heart attack and….” In my head I was yelling at the nurse but it came out more like a whisper, “I told you not to tell her that!” The nurse informed her that I was alright and would be in intensive care when she got to the hospital. Thanks nurse, now how I have to deal with my sister. She’s probably a mess and walked off the job. Miss Girl blacks out when she’s upset and doesn’t think of the repercussions of her actions. I told the nurse that we just buried our mother in February and my sister didn’t need to know about the heart attack part of me being in the hospital. I would have told her when she got here. The nurse apologized but indicated that my sister was in shock at first but ok by the time they finished their conversation.
Off to the ICU. I was fully awake now and feeling my normal self, if you can call that normal. Ready to eat and go home. Unfortunately, I had to stay overnight in the ICU. In walks my sister. “You can’t do this. It’s to soon. What’s wrong with you? I’m not ready for this.” That’s Jacqui. I told her I was fine and it’s all over and I should be out of the hospital in a few days. I had to calm her down. She had that petrified look on her face and she was pale. When her color came back, I hit with becoming my living will/health care proxy, BAM! “Mommy was my proxy but she can’t help now. Don’t worry. I have a DNR so you don’t have to make any decisions. I’m alright now. My sister didn’t think she could handle it so I told her I would have Aunt Betty serve as the alternate. I called her right then there.
me: Hey Auntie, how you doin.
Aunt Betty: I’m fine. Why are you calling me from the hospital. Is everything alright?
me: Um (I forgot to use my cell phone), yeah. I had a heart attack and…..
Aunt Betty: Curt!
me: Auntie, every thing is fine. My right artery was clogged and they put a stint in it. I’m ok.
Her voice began to quiver and I quickly pulled her back.
me: OK, you got 30 seconds to loose it and then it’s over. Alright.
Aunt Betty: OK. Curt! Oh my God….Curt! Lord, Jesus, Eddie had a heart attack….
What room are you in. Uncle Curt and I will be right there.
me: I’m in ICU but I’m calling to ask if you would be my health care proxy alternate with Jacqui. I’m filling out the papers now. Mommy was my proxy but she can’t help me from Graceland Cemetery. (trying to make her laugh) Besides, Jacqui won’t be able to handle the tough decisions. I have a DNR.
Aunt Betty: Sure.
me: Thank you. I’ll have a copy for you when you get here.
Wow, it took a heart attack for me to realize that I didn’t have my papers in order. I guess it’s a good thing that I didn’t leave this earth. So much to do before I go. Let’s see I have to go to the bank and change the beneficiary on my account from mother to my sister; draft a power of attorney with Auntie as the alternate; power pay my car note; and win the lottery. Well I need to start playing mega millions. You got to be in it to win it. I think that’s it….
(To be continue)
12:17 AM
(continued from June 15, 2010)
Gavac transported me to Ellis Hospital in record time. They called ahead and advised the cath unit that I was on my way. I was whisked immediately into the operating room. The attending physician went over the procedure. Indicating that a tube with a camera would inserted in the artery from my groin which leads to my heart. Once there he would look to see if the artery was clogged and if so he would insert a stint while he was there. There were three monitors on my left and I thought I would be awake and get a chance to see the procedure. A nurse stepped in and indicated that she would have to shave the insertion point. Of course I asked if she could just trim me up while she was there. I didn't just want to have a missing patch. She laughed and indicated that she would just shave the area of insertion. I smiled at her and looked over to my left at the monitors. The last thing I remember is thinking that she's going to make a mess of my pubes and I'll have to clean it up when I get home.
Someone slipped me a roofie! All prepared to watch the procedure what I got was; "keep your head down". WHAT! Keep my head down. I wanted to see what was on the monitor. As I surveyed my surroundings with my head down, I realized I was in the recovery room. No one told me I would be under anesthesia. A nurse came over to check my groin and began to apply pressure. Apparently, I was bleeding and I guess that was a bad thing. She called for more bandages and the other nurse became a little frantic. Was I supposed to worried? No, Edward wasn't a happy camper. I wanted to see the procedure. They stopped the bleeding and the one of the nurses asked if I was allergic to shell fish. "No, I love clams, lobster, and crab". She ordered some Benedryl, apparently I was having a reaction to the dye that was used to illuminate my artery. Oh well, what next.
I noticed it was close to noon and I told the nurse to call my sister at work. She asked me for her number and to my surprise I remembered it. I gave instructions to call her during lunch time because she works for Tax and Finance and they are really strict about personal calls. The nurse acknowledged and I must have drifted off to sleep. Awaken at 2:00 PM, the nurse asked is there was anyone they should contact tact. WHAT! “I thought you already called my sister at noon. She won’t be able to take a call now. Her agency is strict.” The nurse laughed at me. Did I say something funny? I was serious. She proceeded to call my sister. I told not to tell her I had a heart attack and what was the first thing out of her mouth; “hello, is this Jacqueline. Your brother, Edward had a heart attack and….” In my head I was yelling at the nurse but it came out more like a whisper, “I told you not to tell her that!” The nurse informed her that I was alright and would be in intensive care when she got to the hospital. Thanks nurse, now how I have to deal with my sister. She’s probably a mess and walked off the job. Miss Girl blacks out when she’s upset and doesn’t think of the repercussions of her actions. I told the nurse that we just buried our mother in February and my sister didn’t need to know about the heart attack part of me being in the hospital. I would have told her when she got here. The nurse apologized but indicated that my sister was in shock at first but ok by the time they finished their conversation.
Off to the ICU. I was fully awake now and feeling my normal self, if you can call that normal. Ready to eat and go home. Unfortunately, I had to stay overnight in the ICU. In walks my sister. “You can’t do this. It’s to soon. What’s wrong with you? I’m not ready for this.” That’s Jacqui. I told her I was fine and it’s all over and I should be out of the hospital in a few days. I had to calm her down. She had that petrified look on her face and she was pale. When her color came back, I hit with becoming my living will/health care proxy, BAM! “Mommy was my proxy but she can’t help now. Don’t worry. I have a DNR so you don’t have to make any decisions. I’m alright now. My sister didn’t think she could handle it so I told her I would have Aunt Betty serve as the alternate. I called her right then there.
me: Hey Auntie, how you doin.
Aunt Betty: I’m fine. Why are you calling me from the hospital. Is everything alright?
me: Um (I forgot to use my cell phone), yeah. I had a heart attack and…..
Aunt Betty: Curt!
me: Auntie, every thing is fine. My right artery was clogged and they put a stint in it. I’m ok.
Her voice began to quiver and I quickly pulled her back.
me: OK, you got 30 seconds to loose it and then it’s over. Alright.
Aunt Betty: OK. Curt! Oh my God….Curt! Lord, Jesus, Eddie had a heart attack….
What room are you in. Uncle Curt and I will be right there.
me: I’m in ICU but I’m calling to ask if you would be my health care proxy alternate with Jacqui. I’m filling out the papers now. Mommy was my proxy but she can’t help me from Graceland Cemetery. (trying to make her laugh) Besides, Jacqui won’t be able to handle the tough decisions. I have a DNR.
Aunt Betty: Sure.
me: Thank you. I’ll have a copy for you when you get here.
Wow, it took a heart attack for me to realize that I didn’t have my papers in order. I guess it’s a good thing that I didn’t leave this earth. So much to do before I go. Let’s see I have to go to the bank and change the beneficiary on my account from mother to my sister; draft a power of attorney with Auntie as the alternate; power pay my car note; and win the lottery. Well I need to start playing mega millions. You got to be in it to win it. I think that’s it….
(To be continue)
Saturday, June 19, 2010
JJ Rafferty’s
F A B U L O U S, FABULOUS time last night at JJ’s. I hadn’t been out to Karaoke in a while. It was a great hanging with my girls, Nia, Lita, and Takia. They’re all grown up now. My last memory of them is when they were just little ones and I used to baby sit for them. So much love there. I had know idea that I had left an impression on them and my babies sing. To think that I almost bailed on this. I was so tired after work but I did not want to let them down.
The night turned into a family affair. We were the Karaoke show. Videos to come. Have to edit them first.
The night turned into a family affair. We were the Karaoke show. Videos to come. Have to edit them first.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Edward's Profile - Windows Live
Just trying to make it easier to follow my blog and keep up to date. I have a windows live profile which is connected to my blog.
Check your spam folder if you were expecting an email notification of postings. I could only set up ten forwards. I apologize if you were not on the list.
Edward's Profile - Windows Live
Check your spam folder if you were expecting an email notification of postings. I could only set up ten forwards. I apologize if you were not on the list.
Edward's Profile - Windows Live
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Heart Looks Good!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2010
3:32 PM
Had a cardiac appointment today and Dr. Rund said the blood work and ultra sound of my heart look good! No other artery damage. Whew, I guess I'm not dying today. The stent has taken hold to my artery and it is up to me to keep it clear, so STOP SMOKING boi. She said she would be in my face every appointment until I quit for good. I'll see her in four months, hopefully tabacco free.
Asked about the cold medicines and she recommend that I take nothing. The dayquil/nightquil are just stronger versions of benedryl with a little alcohol to make me sleep. No harm in taking them but they don't work. They sure make me feel better though. She is definitely into the natural medicines. I can take tylenol for headaches when needed. The important meds are the plavix, aspirin, lipitor and metroprolol.
Oh darn, I forgot to ask her about being sort of melancholy from time to time. I'll save that one for Dr. Liporace (Ralph) next month. He knows me better. More than likely it's normal considering what I have been through. Just need to keep an eye on it so it doesn't manifest into something worse. Not that I need anything more to contend with.
3:32 PM
Had a cardiac appointment today and Dr. Rund said the blood work and ultra sound of my heart look good! No other artery damage. Whew, I guess I'm not dying today. The stent has taken hold to my artery and it is up to me to keep it clear, so STOP SMOKING boi. She said she would be in my face every appointment until I quit for good. I'll see her in four months, hopefully tabacco free.
Asked about the cold medicines and she recommend that I take nothing. The dayquil/nightquil are just stronger versions of benedryl with a little alcohol to make me sleep. No harm in taking them but they don't work. They sure make me feel better though. She is definitely into the natural medicines. I can take tylenol for headaches when needed. The important meds are the plavix, aspirin, lipitor and metroprolol.
Oh darn, I forgot to ask her about being sort of melancholy from time to time. I'll save that one for Dr. Liporace (Ralph) next month. He knows me better. More than likely it's normal considering what I have been through. Just need to keep an eye on it so it doesn't manifest into something worse. Not that I need anything more to contend with.
Acknowledgement
First and foremost, I must acknowledge my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is through his grace and mercy that permits me to document this positive yet provocative story. All praise and honor are due him.
I’d like to thank my sister because of Christ, JeNette Harris, for encouraging me in 1999 to invest in a computer to write this book. “Stop spending so much time at work and use your talent at home to share your experiences with those who share your plight.” Much love sweetheart! Remember, I know who you are. Tell him I said, “Thank you” and I’ll see you there. (Ok, you can cut a step now).
As an African American male, I must follow the lead of so many others and thank my mother. Joyce, you deserve a standing ovation for your role as both father and mother. When I needed love, you gave it unconditionally. When I needed discipline you gave it constructively. And when I needed a friend you were there when I was friendless. Though you unknowingly (I think) spoiled me rotten, I didn’t turn out to bad. You taught me how to respect women and for that the woman in my life and I thank you. This is one book I think you will read through. I will reveal quite a few things that you are not aware of in my story. Yes, you will need a box of Kleenex. Mother, please do not blame yourself for my circumstances. You did everything right! I know you. Do not start thinking of how you could have done things differently. My destiny was predetermined for the purpose of this book. This is just a small part of the charge I have on my life. Prepare yourself and don’t read more than you can handle at one time. I love you……………………………………Eddie
Note to self (NTS): Obviously, this last paragraph will have to be rewritten since Joyce passed away February 2, 2010 and any references to her in the present tense will have to be reworked. Oh yeah, one more thing. Don't start correcting grammer. That's what stalled you the last time. Just write!
I’d like to thank my sister because of Christ, JeNette Harris, for encouraging me in 1999 to invest in a computer to write this book. “Stop spending so much time at work and use your talent at home to share your experiences with those who share your plight.” Much love sweetheart! Remember, I know who you are. Tell him I said, “Thank you” and I’ll see you there. (Ok, you can cut a step now).
As an African American male, I must follow the lead of so many others and thank my mother. Joyce, you deserve a standing ovation for your role as both father and mother. When I needed love, you gave it unconditionally. When I needed discipline you gave it constructively. And when I needed a friend you were there when I was friendless. Though you unknowingly (I think) spoiled me rotten, I didn’t turn out to bad. You taught me how to respect women and for that the woman in my life and I thank you. This is one book I think you will read through. I will reveal quite a few things that you are not aware of in my story. Yes, you will need a box of Kleenex. Mother, please do not blame yourself for my circumstances. You did everything right! I know you. Do not start thinking of how you could have done things differently. My destiny was predetermined for the purpose of this book. This is just a small part of the charge I have on my life. Prepare yourself and don’t read more than you can handle at one time. I love you……………………………………Eddie
Note to self (NTS): Obviously, this last paragraph will have to be rewritten since Joyce passed away February 2, 2010 and any references to her in the present tense will have to be reworked. Oh yeah, one more thing. Don't start correcting grammer. That's what stalled you the last time. Just write!
Full Discolosure
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2010
12:15 AM
Since 1999 I've been procrastinating about writing a book. Just never seemed to be enough time and now it appears that I may be running out of it. I've managed to get seventeen pages and a partial outline completed over the past eleven years. Most of which was done in 1999 when I was enthusiastic about the project.
I've been re-energized and I thought what a better way to get started than to blog what I have thus far. This will reintroduce me to the tone in which I was writing, hopefully. Though I have not been writing, I've managed to address some issues that are revealed in the book and come to terms with them as well as myself. My recent tragedies have moved me to a place where I am my true self without shame or regret. So here it is; "Just As I Am" - Thank you E. Lynn.
12:15 AM
Since 1999 I've been procrastinating about writing a book. Just never seemed to be enough time and now it appears that I may be running out of it. I've managed to get seventeen pages and a partial outline completed over the past eleven years. Most of which was done in 1999 when I was enthusiastic about the project.
I've been re-energized and I thought what a better way to get started than to blog what I have thus far. This will reintroduce me to the tone in which I was writing, hopefully. Though I have not been writing, I've managed to address some issues that are revealed in the book and come to terms with them as well as myself. My recent tragedies have moved me to a place where I am my true self without shame or regret. So here it is; "Just As I Am" - Thank you E. Lynn.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Bromance
TUESDAY, JUNE 15, 2010
11:23 PM
Yes it's over or a least on hold for now. Had a falling out yesterday with my Bro and his wounds have not healed yet. For the first time in my life I can honestly say I had a connection with a straight man who accepted me for me. We are close like brothers in fact I call him my little bro since I am twenty years his senior.
I instantly became attached to him the first day I met and interviewed him for the position of my partner at work. I guess it was his pure passion for the position and his openness to learn everything he could about the job and the field. We immediately looked out for each other and I encouraged him to absorb everything I had to offer. Not to toot my own horn but I am a wealth of knowledge and I freely share what I know. He recognized that and dipped his laddle frequently. I thoroughly enjoy watching him blossom knowing that in a few years he would be excellent in the field. Always complimenting him on the job he was doing to boost his confidence.
We were connected at the hip and could often be found huddled in a doorway speaking to each other in "our" language. We shared secrets with one another about our personal lives and I believe, though we never discussed it, he knew I was different and it didn't matter. He is secure in who he is as am I. He was the first of the few collegues that I informed of my bout with cancer last year. In fact I took him to lunch to discuss it and he paid. The sensitivity he displayed was overwhelming and we were both teary eyed.
He became my protector for the past eighteen months. A time in my life where I went from one valley to the next; cancer, death of my mother, heart attack. Through it all he was there for me. Even when we both felt that we were being dumped on and under appreciated for the jobs we were doing.
My heart is heavy. I can not believe that we had a falling out over something that is not that serious. I should have recognized he was having a bad day and just backed off. I should not have allowed us to embarress ourselves. I just hope that in time the wound will heal and we can become bros once again. I need to talk to him and apologize. I wanted to do it today but I could tell he wasn't ready to receive it. My spirit is telling me to do it soon though. The thought of dieing without reconciling with him is at the forefront of my mind and my spirit will not rest until this is done.
11:23 PM
Yes it's over or a least on hold for now. Had a falling out yesterday with my Bro and his wounds have not healed yet. For the first time in my life I can honestly say I had a connection with a straight man who accepted me for me. We are close like brothers in fact I call him my little bro since I am twenty years his senior.
I instantly became attached to him the first day I met and interviewed him for the position of my partner at work. I guess it was his pure passion for the position and his openness to learn everything he could about the job and the field. We immediately looked out for each other and I encouraged him to absorb everything I had to offer. Not to toot my own horn but I am a wealth of knowledge and I freely share what I know. He recognized that and dipped his laddle frequently. I thoroughly enjoy watching him blossom knowing that in a few years he would be excellent in the field. Always complimenting him on the job he was doing to boost his confidence.
We were connected at the hip and could often be found huddled in a doorway speaking to each other in "our" language. We shared secrets with one another about our personal lives and I believe, though we never discussed it, he knew I was different and it didn't matter. He is secure in who he is as am I. He was the first of the few collegues that I informed of my bout with cancer last year. In fact I took him to lunch to discuss it and he paid. The sensitivity he displayed was overwhelming and we were both teary eyed.
He became my protector for the past eighteen months. A time in my life where I went from one valley to the next; cancer, death of my mother, heart attack. Through it all he was there for me. Even when we both felt that we were being dumped on and under appreciated for the jobs we were doing.
My heart is heavy. I can not believe that we had a falling out over something that is not that serious. I should have recognized he was having a bad day and just backed off. I should not have allowed us to embarress ourselves. I just hope that in time the wound will heal and we can become bros once again. I need to talk to him and apologize. I wanted to do it today but I could tell he wasn't ready to receive it. My spirit is telling me to do it soon though. The thought of dieing without reconciling with him is at the forefront of my mind and my spirit will not rest until this is done.
Heart Attack...
TUESDAY, JUNE 15, 2010
7:15 AM
(continued from May 30, 2010)
Nurse Terry entered the room in a multicolored green lab coat with green pants and matching blouse. The outfit was topped with a pair of multicolored green reading glasses. The look was quite cute and it matched her personality. I complimented the glasses and she said, “I have a pair for every outfit.” Can someone say DIVA!
I informed Terry of my symptoms and how I experienced this before and it turned out to be pneumonia. She indicated that they would run a cardiogram and connect an IV just in case they needed to pump me with medication or draw more blood. She didn’t want to keep sticking me. That was so sweet of her. The technician attached the little sticky things on my chest, ankles and somewhere on the side, I think. She started the machine and once the reading was complete I noticed tension in her back. She quietly called Nurse Terry over to read the data and she confirmed what the technician read with a yep.
Nurse Terry came back over to me and continued with the IV site. The technician left the room momentarily and I stated to Terry, “I’m having a heart attach, huh”. She said “Yep”. I responded “Oh well, I guess I’m staying”. Terry couldn’t believe how nonchalant I was about the whole thing. I must admit I was relatively calm; however, there was flurry all around me. The technician returned and removed the sticky things, the admissions nurse came in requesting my insurance card, and the doctor shows with a look of fear on his face. Another nurse rushed in with medication; four chewable baby aspirin and nitro glycerin.
Nurse: Here, take these chewable baby aspirin.
Me: With my gum in my mouth?
Nurse: (no response) Place this under your tongue, its nitro glycerin.
Me: I can keep the gum in my mouth.
Nurse: (no response)
Needless to say I kept the gum in my mouth and the nitro under my tongue and I thought I couldn’t multi-task. During this flurry someone contacted the paramedics because they came with the gurney and the questions. Apparently, I’m supposed to be in a great deal of pain. It felt like heart burn to me and I couldn’t quite grasp why everyone else was sooooo excited. I wish these people would calm down. Once the medical banter between the doctor and the paramedics they were finally ready to transport me to Ellis Hospital. The ER doc informed me that I need a heart cauterization. That got my attention. I knew exactly what that was since mommy had one when she had congestive heart failure in September and was transferred to St. Peter’s Hospital. I still remained calm. I was about to receive my first ambulance ride only there would be no one following behind like I did for my mom.
Ok, there’s that brief moment of sadness and loneliness during the medical emergency which I quickly dismissed. No time for that right now boi, get it together. And together I got it. Well having a cute paramedic, without a wedding ring, helped :)…(To be continued)
7:15 AM
(continued from May 30, 2010)
Nurse Terry entered the room in a multicolored green lab coat with green pants and matching blouse. The outfit was topped with a pair of multicolored green reading glasses. The look was quite cute and it matched her personality. I complimented the glasses and she said, “I have a pair for every outfit.” Can someone say DIVA!
I informed Terry of my symptoms and how I experienced this before and it turned out to be pneumonia. She indicated that they would run a cardiogram and connect an IV just in case they needed to pump me with medication or draw more blood. She didn’t want to keep sticking me. That was so sweet of her. The technician attached the little sticky things on my chest, ankles and somewhere on the side, I think. She started the machine and once the reading was complete I noticed tension in her back. She quietly called Nurse Terry over to read the data and she confirmed what the technician read with a yep.
Nurse Terry came back over to me and continued with the IV site. The technician left the room momentarily and I stated to Terry, “I’m having a heart attach, huh”. She said “Yep”. I responded “Oh well, I guess I’m staying”. Terry couldn’t believe how nonchalant I was about the whole thing. I must admit I was relatively calm; however, there was flurry all around me. The technician returned and removed the sticky things, the admissions nurse came in requesting my insurance card, and the doctor shows with a look of fear on his face. Another nurse rushed in with medication; four chewable baby aspirin and nitro glycerin.
Nurse: Here, take these chewable baby aspirin.
Me: With my gum in my mouth?
Nurse: (no response) Place this under your tongue, its nitro glycerin.
Me: I can keep the gum in my mouth.
Nurse: (no response)
Needless to say I kept the gum in my mouth and the nitro under my tongue and I thought I couldn’t multi-task. During this flurry someone contacted the paramedics because they came with the gurney and the questions. Apparently, I’m supposed to be in a great deal of pain. It felt like heart burn to me and I couldn’t quite grasp why everyone else was sooooo excited. I wish these people would calm down. Once the medical banter between the doctor and the paramedics they were finally ready to transport me to Ellis Hospital. The ER doc informed me that I need a heart cauterization. That got my attention. I knew exactly what that was since mommy had one when she had congestive heart failure in September and was transferred to St. Peter’s Hospital. I still remained calm. I was about to receive my first ambulance ride only there would be no one following behind like I did for my mom.
Ok, there’s that brief moment of sadness and loneliness during the medical emergency which I quickly dismissed. No time for that right now boi, get it together. And together I got it. Well having a cute paramedic, without a wedding ring, helped :)…(To be continued)
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Time Warner Cable
Saturday, June 5, 2010
12:19 AM
Ok, what's up with Time Warner Cable. I mean, the new upgrade is nice and all but the constanct rebooting, tiling and freezing is getting on my last nerve. Not to mention that the DVR tends to not record the entire show at a crucial part in a series like American Idol. Good thing I was watching the finale. What recorded was, "and the winner is..."
Who has time to wait for the service man or to disconnect the box and take to the office for a new one. I certainly don't. At least not at the moment. Maybe by the fall line up.
I'm just saying.
12:19 AM
Ok, what's up with Time Warner Cable. I mean, the new upgrade is nice and all but the constanct rebooting, tiling and freezing is getting on my last nerve. Not to mention that the DVR tends to not record the entire show at a crucial part in a series like American Idol. Good thing I was watching the finale. What recorded was, "and the winner is..."
Who has time to wait for the service man or to disconnect the box and take to the office for a new one. I certainly don't. At least not at the moment. Maybe by the fall line up.
I'm just saying.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Wayne, I'll Miss You
FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2010
9:15 PM
Text message from my BFF, Sheilah – Monday, May 31, 2010 7:50 AM
“Good morning love, i heard the sad news, I’m sorry but happy wayne is now at peace…How are you doing? I truly hope ur taking care of yourself..”
I did not know that my friend had passed, though it was announced in several churches on Sunday. Wayne and I became very good friends when I moved back to the Albany area in 2001. I enjoyed the music workshops he hosted at Union Missionary Baptist Church where my mother (Joyce) was a member for 31 years. She passed on February 2, 2010 prior to my commencement of blog journaling. Things are happening so quickly that I cannot seem to keep up. Events may be out of order but that is my life at the present time, “Out of Order”.
During her hospitalization in September of 2009, which began the rapid downward spiral of her health, Wayne walked me through the symptoms and expectations of Pulmonary Fibrosis. He had already done his research since he was diagnosed months prior and did not mince words with me. I loved that about him. If you wanted the plain truth without sugar coating, he was the man to give it to you. In that vein he and I were the same. I shared the progression of the disease with him. He wanted to know what to expect and prepare himself for his progression. A month after my mother’s burial, February 6, 2010, I received a call from Wayne requesting that I sit with him on the weekends to relieve his sister Geneva. I fully understood and honored the request. I identified fully and longed for relief during my mother’s illness. Thank GOD for the hospice volunteers who would come by in the afternoons and allow me to run errands for a couple of hours. Though I was in mourning, Wayne and I remained in touch. We would have weekly chats, usually Friday afternoons on my lunch break at work or when the spirit moved him to call me during the week after working hours. We always seem to lift each other’s spirit. “You’re so stupid”, he would say after I made him laugh uncontrollably with one of my dramatic stories.
One of our conversations went a little something like…
Wayne: Am I going crazy?
Me: What do mean?
Wayne: Some days I’m full of energy but by the time I get washed, dressed and have breakfast I’m exhausted.
Me: Nah man, you’re not going crazy. That’s what mommy experienced too. It would bug me out. We would plan to get out and take a drive and by the time we go it together she was too tired to go anywhere.
Wayne: So, I’m not crazy.
Me: No you’re not crazy. Remember, you told me that there would be good days and she should save some of that energy for the bad ones. What. You’re not practicing what you preach.
Wayne: Boy, stop it. You’re going to make me go into a laughing fit again and that hurts.
Me: Oh, I’m sorry…I’m just saying. (we both begin to laugh)
Wayne: I like talking to you. You’re always honest with me.
Me: We’ve always been honest with each other. You alright?
Wayne: Yeah.
Me: Ok, I’m gonna let you go now and get some rest. Just know that you can ask me anything and I will tell you what I know and have experienced as long as you can handle it.
Wayne: Edward, thank you. I appreciate that. You always give it to me straight.
Me: I always tell people, if you don’t want the truth then don’t ask me the question. Good night buddy, luv ya.
Wayne: luv ya too. Good night.
We conversed like this for a few weeks before I began staying with him on the weekends. Our weekends were fun. He knew I wasn’t going to bother him about eating. I knew that his appetite would come and go and when he was hungry he’d tell me what he wanted. I just hoped it wasn’t a request like my mothers. She wanted watermelon in the middle of the winter. I was happy that she had an appetite and went out and found some watermelon. Wayne and I watched movies, I brought a dvd collection. My first weekend with Wayne was from 12:00 PM Saturday to 4:00 PM Sunday. We talked mostly and only watched two movies. We enjoyed each other’s company and I told him I could sit with him again if he needed me. He said, “Edward, I need you in my presence more”. Wow, that was honest direct and deep. I became the weekend guy for the month of April and the first two weekends in May before my heart attack.
Douglas W. Woodard
Woodard, Douglas W. ALBANY Douglas Wayne Woodard was called to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 30, 2010 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Wayne was the son of the late Dora and George W. Woodard Sr. He was educated in the Albany Public School System, and was a gifted musician from the age of six. All of his life, he used that gift to glorify the Lord. Wayne was the minister of music for the Union Missionary Baptist Church for more than 30 years. He also was the musician for various singing groups, schools, organizations, and other churches throughout the Capital District as long as his health would allow. Wayne was one of the first heart transplants in the Capital District and one of the longest survivors. Left to cherish Wayne's memory is his loving son, Maurice Q. (Marsha) Woodard; grandson, Jaedon Q. Woodard; four sisters, E. Geneva Conway, Menands, N.Y., Ethel Mae (James) Locke, Fayetteville, N.C., Rose M. (Samuel) Koonce, Rose "Gerry" (Allen) Brandon, both of Albany, N.Y.; three brothers, George W. (Janice) Woodard Jr., Albany, Willie L. Woodard, Honolulu, Hawaii, his twin, David B. (Cheryl) Woodard, Stratford-on-Avon, United Kingdom; 13 nieces, three nephews; five godchildren; and many dear relatives and friends, too numerous to name. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, George and Dora Woodard; one sister, Catherine Brown; two brothers-in-law, Philip Conway and Theodore Brown; two nephews, Kenneth Harrison and Robert Koonce; one great-niece, Yolanda Locke and his dear friends, John Kornegay and Clarence Tyson. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his wake on Friday, June 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Union Missionary Baptist Church, 3 Morton Ave. A service celebrating Wayne's life will be held on Saturday, June 5, with a calling hour at 10:00 a.m. and service starting at 11:00 a.m. at the Wilborn Temple First Church of God in Christ, 121 Jay Street, Albany. Rev. Victor E. Covington, eulogist, Rev. Solomon Dees, officiating. Interment will be in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery, Rt. 5-Central Avenue, Schenectady, N.Y. The family will receive callers at 21 Clifford Rd., Menands. You may remember Wayne's life with a contribution to the Capital District Keys for Kids Music Program, P.O. Box 635, Albany, NY 12201, and/or the National Pulmonary Fibrosis Association.
My brother in Christ has gone home and he will be greeted by family and friends who have gone before. I know my mother will greet him with a warm smile and a hug. Ms. Conway and Family: May you sense the Lord’s loving presence at all times keeping you close to His heart, assuring you of His tender care and covering you with His grace.
With thoughts and prayers,
ECagelove
9:15 PM
Text message from my BFF, Sheilah – Monday, May 31, 2010 7:50 AM
“Good morning love, i heard the sad news, I’m sorry but happy wayne is now at peace…How are you doing? I truly hope ur taking care of yourself..”
I did not know that my friend had passed, though it was announced in several churches on Sunday. Wayne and I became very good friends when I moved back to the Albany area in 2001. I enjoyed the music workshops he hosted at Union Missionary Baptist Church where my mother (Joyce) was a member for 31 years. She passed on February 2, 2010 prior to my commencement of blog journaling. Things are happening so quickly that I cannot seem to keep up. Events may be out of order but that is my life at the present time, “Out of Order”.
During her hospitalization in September of 2009, which began the rapid downward spiral of her health, Wayne walked me through the symptoms and expectations of Pulmonary Fibrosis. He had already done his research since he was diagnosed months prior and did not mince words with me. I loved that about him. If you wanted the plain truth without sugar coating, he was the man to give it to you. In that vein he and I were the same. I shared the progression of the disease with him. He wanted to know what to expect and prepare himself for his progression. A month after my mother’s burial, February 6, 2010, I received a call from Wayne requesting that I sit with him on the weekends to relieve his sister Geneva. I fully understood and honored the request. I identified fully and longed for relief during my mother’s illness. Thank GOD for the hospice volunteers who would come by in the afternoons and allow me to run errands for a couple of hours. Though I was in mourning, Wayne and I remained in touch. We would have weekly chats, usually Friday afternoons on my lunch break at work or when the spirit moved him to call me during the week after working hours. We always seem to lift each other’s spirit. “You’re so stupid”, he would say after I made him laugh uncontrollably with one of my dramatic stories.
One of our conversations went a little something like…
Wayne: Am I going crazy?
Me: What do mean?
Wayne: Some days I’m full of energy but by the time I get washed, dressed and have breakfast I’m exhausted.
Me: Nah man, you’re not going crazy. That’s what mommy experienced too. It would bug me out. We would plan to get out and take a drive and by the time we go it together she was too tired to go anywhere.
Wayne: So, I’m not crazy.
Me: No you’re not crazy. Remember, you told me that there would be good days and she should save some of that energy for the bad ones. What. You’re not practicing what you preach.
Wayne: Boy, stop it. You’re going to make me go into a laughing fit again and that hurts.
Me: Oh, I’m sorry…I’m just saying. (we both begin to laugh)
Wayne: I like talking to you. You’re always honest with me.
Me: We’ve always been honest with each other. You alright?
Wayne: Yeah.
Me: Ok, I’m gonna let you go now and get some rest. Just know that you can ask me anything and I will tell you what I know and have experienced as long as you can handle it.
Wayne: Edward, thank you. I appreciate that. You always give it to me straight.
Me: I always tell people, if you don’t want the truth then don’t ask me the question. Good night buddy, luv ya.
Wayne: luv ya too. Good night.
We conversed like this for a few weeks before I began staying with him on the weekends. Our weekends were fun. He knew I wasn’t going to bother him about eating. I knew that his appetite would come and go and when he was hungry he’d tell me what he wanted. I just hoped it wasn’t a request like my mothers. She wanted watermelon in the middle of the winter. I was happy that she had an appetite and went out and found some watermelon. Wayne and I watched movies, I brought a dvd collection. My first weekend with Wayne was from 12:00 PM Saturday to 4:00 PM Sunday. We talked mostly and only watched two movies. We enjoyed each other’s company and I told him I could sit with him again if he needed me. He said, “Edward, I need you in my presence more”. Wow, that was honest direct and deep. I became the weekend guy for the month of April and the first two weekends in May before my heart attack.
Douglas W. Woodard
Published in Albany Times Union on June 3, 2010
My brother in Christ has gone home and he will be greeted by family and friends who have gone before. I know my mother will greet him with a warm smile and a hug. Ms. Conway and Family: May you sense the Lord’s loving presence at all times keeping you close to His heart, assuring you of His tender care and covering you with His grace.
With thoughts and prayers,
ECagelove
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)