0 comments

BLACK OUT?

No. Black IN.

-sigh-
What's ril-ly good my people (when I say MY people, I mean GOD'S people do not get
it twisted.)?

We've been slacking.

Our blog has gone weeks without a post.
In both of our defenses, we've been battling demons.
Yet that does not excuse our obligation to our love, alwaysRil.

It's February.
2nd month of the year.
Shortest month of the year.
Still, the very month nationally honored as BLACK HISTORY MONTH.
It's a time to remember, recollect, & rejoice.
Most of our readers are African American (a term that gives me shivers) college
students.
I, Ric, know most of you personally and I am intrigued by your
wisdom and brilliance.
However, when is the last time you stopped in the middle of
your campus and thought, just 50 or so short years ago,
it would've been IMPOSSIBLE for me to be here?

It seems generic to say it now, but we've come so far.
From the field workers, to sharecroppers, from marching in
the streets, to building dreams on the corners.
We've come a long way my people, a MIGHTY long way.

With this being said, it saddens me deeply that so few
of us, including myself, are so quick to attend a (singular)
black history program and consider it enough.
Enough?!
ENOUGH?!!!
People were viciously attacked by dogs, yet we're doing enough.
Families woke up to burning crosses in their lawn, but we're doing enough.

Image and video hosting by TinyPic

-My eyes are watering as I stroke each key.-
We
are
NOT
doing
enough.

It makes me smile though, to see so many of my peers
succeeding in life. Their drive, courage, and determination
are ALL qualities of the very people who paved the way for us.
My friends, it is our month.
Let us rejoice.

And if March gets here, and you find yourself still celebrating,
then by all means, continue.
Don't settle.
Don't ever think its ENOUGH.
Do more than ENOUGH.
Take it upon yourself to be the change you want to see in this world.

I hope I don't lose any readers by saying any of this,
but if you disagree with the TRUTH, then you were reading
the wrong blog in the first place.

We, my people, are the EMBODIMENT of the very thing those people died for.

See, I believe people read the word "die" and take it as an ordinary word.
BUT, if one stopped and really thought about the meaning of this one syllable
idiom, it would humble them.

When one dies, he ceases to exist.
His breathing is stopped.
His life is no more.
Those people D-I-E-D.
They did not wake up the next day.
They did not enjoy the fruit of their labor.
They marched, protested, and demonstrated KNOWING that
they may be killed, ALL for US.
All for us to be able to enjoy the same rights as others.
Its not like these people had no lives.
They were husbands, wives, children, aunts, and uncles.
They were preachers, deacons, teachers, and friends.
Yet, they exhibited the utmost form of selflessness by
sacrificing their lives for you and I.

I've heard students say "Black History Month is getting old".
Old? Old?!
The arrogance that some of today's society displays is utterly disgusting.
It is unimaginable for them NOT to be living in "Wayne's World",
attending public school with white people, and fathering/birthing
at LEAST one child before the age of 20.

I am not trying to lecture.
I am not trying to make anyone feel uncomfortable,
but this needs to be said.
Not by someone older, but by someone of our generation.
It has to start with us.
I am SICK & Tired of our youth & their notion of what it
is to be black.

Being black is not the RIGHT to call each other NIGGA.
Being black is not being able to exclusively listen to rap.
Being black is not bragging on welfare.
Being black is not blaming everything on white people.

-sigh-

-takes a sip of water-

My people, we have GOT to redefine WHAT it means to be black.

I took the liberty of asking a few people what it means to be black to them.
Enjoy.

Zakiya says:
To me, being a young lady of African American race is an honor. I have the gift of rhythm, dance, and natural beauty. My cultural background has a huge influence on my life. My ancestors are of the Swahili tribe of Kenya. People of the Swahili tribe are known for their music and dance styles and techniques. Knowing that explains to me my love for dance and music, and why I am well at it. Being Black has taught me to take pride in myself. To carry myself with dignity and respect. Living in this society where Blacks are still looked down on, has taught me to be strong. Being Black to me means I have the God-given privilege to be someone in life. Being Black to me means I am a child of the original people of the world. Being Black to me means I have the honor of carrying on my ancestors customs as a dancer, singer, and an all around individual. Being Black means that I am, I can, and I will. That’s what being an African American, Black, Negro child…means to me…Zakiya Jaleès Nakoa Anyaso Bookert.

Brittany says:


What it means to be black is an ongoing manifestation of profound truth. And tomorrow I may have learned something even deeper. Our roots are so vast. But for now, I say that being black means being born with odds against you, limitations before you, a nation that isn't catered for your needs. It means persevering. It means giving this world something so soulful, it cannot be found anywhere else. "Swag," grace, strength--that's us. Being black is remembering that the world's first, most glorious, richest civilization is that of Africa. Black is not about being gangstas and pimps, bitches and hoes, but about being Kings and Queens, Dreamers and Pros. It's about being proud of who we are, where we've come, what we've become and what we will ultimately be because people have spent their entire history tellin' us what we're not and what we can't be.

It may seem like these are things just ANYBODY could say, but we have a story unlike anything else on this earth.


_____________________________________________________

AlwaysRil started celebrating late.
So, with all due respect, we will ,
more than likely, continue our
Black History Pieces throughout next month.

We've got treats in store.
Jackson Harlem
&
T. Hearn.

Hmph. Two men you should have known
a year ago.
Extraordinary & Black.
That's all we'll say about them.
For Now.

Do us a favor though, tell us what it means to be black
to you.

Until Next time,

alwaysRIL.
read more
4 comments

Real In Like/Lust/Love.

Where yo BOSS at?

-sigh-

If you don't get this, blame it on Hil but GO listen to "Diva".
Now you oughta know.

-moving on-

We heartless, loveless souls here at alwaysRil have compiled a list
of Do's & Don'ts for this February 14th, 2009 aka Valentine's Day aka
Chocolate&RosesForNoReasonDay,HeDontReallyLoveYou Day aka
National Condom Day. No Lie. Google it.

Without further adieu, we give you our list:

1.)Do let your significant other kiss every inch of you.
Don't make an entire Facebook album showcasing it.

2.)Do ask your longtime crush to be your Valentine.
Don't dump your longtime girl/boyfriend days before the 14th.

3.)Do make a scrapbook to commemorate you & your boo's relationship.
Don't get your boo's name tattooed on your breast, chest, neck, arm, back, you get the picture.

4.)Do wear a shade of red or pink to show your festive side.
Don't run out & buy a shirt that reads: Be Mine, XoXo, Kiss Me, or I'm Yours or any other cheesy, heart candy slogan.

5.)Do know your relationship's level & buy accordingly.
Don't expect a gift from a friend that you're not "talking" to.

6.)Do research why Valentine's Day is celebrated.
Don't be bitter. Enough said.

7.)Do make something whether it be cards or cookies, use your hands, show your creative side.
Don't be too commercial. Nothing says I love you like...boxed chocolates? Not.

8.)Do something special for the one you love.
Don't expect something in return.

9.)*Do be in love to make it.
Don't drop the L bomb for the 1st time during sex.

10.) Do love & respect yourself.
We don't have a don't. Just..do the do.

So...have you found your boss yet?
__________________________________________________________________
Sex.
It's gonna happen. So let us help you make the play list for the event.

You need SOMETHING to listen to besides the "ah's" "ooh's" & moans
of intercourse. Whether you're going to passionately make love or your partner
is gonna beat it up..
we have got the songs for you.






F*ck Songs.


**Note: Justin Timberlake's "Set the Mood" is only an intro
song. We did not include it as one of our 5 Love Making songs.**





Top 5 Love Making Songs

AFTERTHOUGHTS:

Earlier today, after enjoying Zaxby's, we were sitting around the living room of our apartment when Hil asked the question "WHAT makes a relationship last?" Here's what we had to say:

MonTrell: If you get to the point where you're working TOO hard, then it's already over.
It never should have made it to that point.

Jarod: Solid foundation of love & trust. The 50% rule applies here. It's not a JOB. One person should never have to work harder than the other. You have to be willing to give as much as you get.

Hillary: I know, within a MONTH, whether or not what a guy & I have will last. What I choose to do after that point depends on how convenient us being together will be. I know that sounds bad but...

Ricardo: Ya know, I just gotta be real. I don't know. I don't care to find out. I'm against long term relationships. It's a poor investment. Use your time wisely. Love = Madoff. Don't know who that is? GOOGLE him.

Josh McElroy: Uh, trust, honesty, commitment, change, patience, that's it really. Oh, &
Good SEX!!!!!

Johnathan: Yeah all that ^^^^^ unless they're a virgin or something & then you gotta wait.


Jessica :I think that the key to a lasting relationship is honesty. Not simply between you and your significant other, but also with yourself…And you have to be willing to put in the work to make it work. Not all relationships are 50/50, don’t even kid yourself in that lie. The real measure of dedication and love comes in the fact that you accept that and still work at it. You have to be willing to unconsciously put that persons wants, needs, and desires before your own. With my guy, I can honestly say that I carry him in my spirit-- meaning that I’m not whole without him and I’m willing to do whatever I need to do to remain complete.


We'd like to read YOUR comments on this question along with the rest of this post.

Til Next Time,

-alwaysRIL
read more
4 comments

Please. Fall Back & Spring Forward, RIL-ly.

Despite Sir Groundhog's recent sighting of his own shadow,
we here at alwaysRIL are prepared for the Spring.

Time to come out of hibernation under those
Peacoats
and bulky scarves, to embrace lighter layers,
comfortable fabrics, and, most importantly,
new looks.

Here's how it goes.
Ric will give you ten guy looks and Hil will
cover the girls.
Enjoy!


RIL
Men's Fashion:


1.)Cardigans are a must have. There is simply no way around it.
They're light enough to wear with shorts without looking confused,
while the sleeves help protect from the sudden chilly winds.
Cardigans are great worn with ties or with a simple t shirt.


2.) Denim-less. They're a staple in the American culture but
this
season, they're more like a historic artifact. Denim jeans
are mundane.
They're too safe. If you're going to wear
denim jeans, at least cuff them
to above the ankle.
Trust me on this one.

3.) Chino. The perfect substitute for denim. Chinos are a type
of khakis.
They're light and look GREAT with just about anything.


4.) Tennis & Golf. Two under rated sports that are shining through

this season. Don't be afraid of your Lacoste shirt. Just stop wearing
that
God-awful GREEN one.




5.) Lotion up those ankles and stop wearing socks.
Socks will ruin a
perfect fit. Wear loafers, that way you
won't even need socks.
Loafers and a Lacoste shirt with
a pair of Chino shorts. Hmph.
I'm jealous already.

6.) Plaid. -sigh- Just do it. Suck it up. Disregard your
inhibitions and
just do it. -swoosh-

7.) Contrary to popular belief: BLACK is a Spring color.

I'd suggest a bold, black striped cardigan. (or at least black loafers). Here's my take:





8.) Your best friends this Spring should be: Red & Blue.
They are THE colors to wear.

9.) No, No, NO! Skulls. Bones. 80's theme.
Fad & Fashion are on two opposite ends of the spectrum.

10.) Stick a fork in your scarf. It's done.
Scarves are only stylish when they serve a purpose.
How do you expect to look cool and comfortable in
a scarf?


My favorite look:





RIL Women's Fashion:

1. BIG statement necklaces along with other tribal pieces, such as, bangles.
2. Tailored Menswear...think your boyfriend's blazer only altered to fit your body
3. Updated and Reworked Denim (minis and pencils)
4. Nude colored and Sheer fabrics
5. Rock Style but NOT skulls and chains more like leather and zippers
6. Rompers/Jumpsuits---pants are in, but the SHORTer the better
7. Angular Necklines meaning one shoulder tops, blouses, and dresses
8. BRIGHT and BOLD lemon to neon yellows, fuchsia, cobalt and turquoise blues
9. Shimmery Shiny Sparkly Glittery things...from whole vests and dresses to embellished cropped jackets and shoes
10. a LWD...that's right a little WHITE dress, but make it standout with updates like bows and ruffles!

-alwaysRIL

read more
3 comments

This is....

RIL Talk:


Here at alwaysRIL, we hold one quality with the highest regard:
Individualism. No matter WHO you are, always be YOU.
The worse thing you could possibly ever do is CONFORM.
Standing out does seem a bit intimidating, believe me,
but it would be much more comfortable for YOU to stand
out than to blend in.
Hil and I have always been odd :), and though it meant
that we were talked about, we held our heads up.
God made us just the way he wanted us.
We're made in HIS image.

Next time you walk past a mirror, give yourself
a wink. You deserve it. Nobody on this Earth
can do anything for you if you do not allow them to.
(This is especially true for my fellow college students.
No student on that campus is able to give you a degree!)

What someone else eats, does not make you sh*t.

Think about that.


Be Blessed.
Be Thankful.
Be Ril.

-alwaysRIL.


*Coming Soon: Spring 2009: What to Wear*


read more
3 comments

...the beginning....


R I C

Real Recognize RIL. & I'm one of the RIL-est you'll ever meet.
who am i? WHO AM I?

I'm Ric. 1/2 of the Almighty RIL.
20 years old with a 40 year old soul.
I'm half African American & half gone.
Full of book sense y
et common senseless.
My sister= My world.
My education = My Key.
This Blog = My Outlet.

-looks at Hil-

We made it DAWG.
Finally, OUR blog. Our very own "damn-we-need-to-tell-ppl-about-this" site.

Here's a shovel, let's see if you can dig it.






HIL


I am a 21 year old Marketing major from Laurel(Lah), MS. I have always found myself thinking and existing outside of the box. Since an early age I was always dressed to impress. Hell, I had my own bow maker! Shout out to P-Lo(my mama)! Growing up on the "Westside" while attending a magnet school taught me how to be my own person. I learned to square dance at school and "pop" when I got home. I'm not BOOGIE/Stuck up/better than anybody. I may not be liked the majority, but that's how most things, that last, start out (ie: sliced bread, mini skirts, rap)








What's RIL-LY GOOD?


Our blog is dedicated to the people.

Seriously, we are here to talk about the things in the world
that most people try to avoid?

Why us?
WHY NOT?


We know people who know people.
Ya' know people?


And you will respect us,

or you'll make Frankie mad.....


Image and video hosting by TinyPic

*You F*Cking Crackhead*

Lol.

Anyway stick with us



We're going places



-always
RIL



read more