Questions??????????? Can you please explain?

my mind is cluttered and chest caving in...
filled with what could have been? what should have been? what if this...? what if that?

should I be like drake and say, "no new friends?" pshhhhhhhhh no way. or
should I see it like rocko and realize that "I don't even know it?" pahhahaha maybe.

where does my motivation come from?
where does my ambition flow from?
why do I exude the confidence of a lion?

am I cocky? or am I confident?
am I aggressive? or am I proactive? its a thought I've had to ask myself after hearing a hater or two.

why am I so hungry to succeed?
hell...what is success?

is it money? is it cars? is it clothes? is it women? or is it simply the things that money can't buy?
the priceless love and joy that a man gains from providing for his family; the experience of sharing your heart fully with another human being or the humbling experience of providing for someone who could never return the favor?

should I have a job that supplies pure joy? or should my place of work be merely a means to make money? if it doesn't  or if it isn't, am I to leave?
what if i'm pretty good at what I do...do I continue to do it? what if i'm the best that ever lived yet it supplies me with little to no joy, do I consider to suffer inside? as the handshakes, the aspirations and pats on the back continue to tug at my mental state...what am I to do? who am I to be? why not them instead of me?

why have I had to work so damn hard for everything I have in this life? how long am I to remain patient? perhaps i'll have a golden spoon in the next life? lol If there is a next.
why was I a fat kid growing up? why'd the other kids pick on me?
why did I aspire to do something nearly impossible and stick it out?
why'd I ask to play a sport that could potentially end my life early one day?
why couldn't I be a writer or a painter? play tennis or golf? or be an architect or scientist? oh... because I suck at both. lol

even with that being said, why did ms. brown chastise us as kids for asking what she thought were dumb math questions? why'd I have such a horrible time with fractions? (hence the mass communications degree)

why'd I have to move overseas and leave all my friends every 3 years?
why don't I know where i'm from? GA? FL? Germany? TX? LA?
why can't I settle and set some roots... or a foundation?

maybe i'm not meant to. maybe i'm here where i'm supposed to be. truth is...only god knows...not me. I understand that if its his will, then its a place that i'd ought to be. I understand that I've given my life to him and allowed him to use me. its no joke, its no secret. he's been ultimately so so so good to me.

why all of these things... because it was meant to be.
think about it...that last issue you had, it came to pass.
think about it...those finals you stressed over...you made it.
that presentation you almost died over...you lived.
that roommate you thought you'd kill, they moved on.
or the time you needed a job, you landed one.
or the time you were homeless, some one took you in.
or the time you said you never get time to yourself... you've found a way to read this. lol

everything that you've worried about has found its way in and out of your life. live in the moment. live for tomorrow and simply cherish the past. learn from your mistakes. learn what makes your heart break. keep those close to you closer and keep those far away in your sights.

people are always talking, so never let a hater bring you down. from what I understand...if no ones talking about you...then maybe you're doing something wrong. lol

keep pushing. keep dreaming. keep fighting. let your passions drive you're mind to the wildest of ideas. let your heart enjoy the wildest of a journey.  give to someone who can never repay you.

everyone in this world longs to be loved. everyone loves to experience joy, laughter and happiness. indulge today. brighten someone else's day. be a random act of kindness to someone who'd least expect it. it'll change the world one kind gesture at a time.

the last question I have for you today is... what have you done for someone else? if nothing...what are you waiting for?

Get' R Donnnnnnnnnnne!

my <3's Questions?????????????????????????

~SNAKES~

Watch your step...watch your surroundings. Not everyone wants you to succeed.



 

For what its worth... BE ALL YOU CAN BE. LOVE to the fullest. FIGHT until you have no fight left. DANCE with Passion even after the music stops. Reason being...evil is watching, evil is lurking. Their eyes always lie.

Beware of Snakes in the Workplace!

 

I ask... Who are you to be great?

With eyes as green as greed itself...they watch.

 

I ask...Who are you to be liked?

With eyes of envy they recruit one by one in an effort to gain an army to distract you.

They can't help but to watch you from a far.

Is it hate? Is it greed? Is it envy?
Perhaps its their own self doubt, pity and shame.
Perhaps all their success have been merely handed to them or stolen from others.

Just maybe...the thought of someone working their ass off to accomplish all they have shall never make sense to their itty-bitty brain.

Watch me. Record me. Take a picture and kick rocks. You can text, you can msg. You can email. I don't care what you do because what God has for me... is not for you!

Truth is...I do what I do because its what I was called to do. The sooner you get my business out of yours, the better you can focus on you. Don't worry about me...but in case you must... watch me do me and I'll see you at the top! That is...if you ever make it because you're too busy looking at me.

With every bright idea... you shut me down.
With every nice gesture... you burn it down or turn it around.

I still love you, reason being... is because HATERS NEED LOVE TOO!
 

"Feel Free To Hate On Me!"

 

 

Additional info: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/sometimes-boss-really-psycho-100000866.html









Working in Sports Sucks... BUT, I LOVE IT!!!

REAL TALK! TRUE STORY!

Actual Mindset

Lets face it... EVERYONE wants to work in Sports and Entertainment!
Its just about the coolest thing you can do other than actually being King James or Brad Pitt. And, if I'm honest with myself...Most weeks can be pretty cool, consisting of the following:

• working alongside a big time celebrity or professional athlete: D-Wade aka 3 or Nicki Minaj
• getting a few "Comped Tickets" to a game: NBA Finals, NFL Playoffs or Opening Days
• getting a little team swag here and there: Newest Gear the players wear
• Oh, and your office building isn't the norm...now'a days its usually some state-of-the-art multi billion dollar stadium! How cool is that? 

But... (and there is Always a BUT) with that being said. I've still found myself having heart to heart conversations with family members and coworkers about  a few dreaded experiences. You'll find that indeed some of your unique experiences may not be all that unique. The ones that drive you a little insane; and give you a bold opportunity to question your self-worth and purpose on this earth make for the best comedy hours during slow days or times of reflection!

For instance: finding yourself applying for food stamps, looking for odd jobs in the back of the paper or the dreaded Craigslist search, or merely piecing a block of string cheese, a banana, one piece of bologna and a few salty crackers from Wendy's all in one entree! o_O  oh my!
PS. Nothing beats a good Ice cub Sandwich! lol

Oh, not to mention your apartment or "resting place" (a doggie mat in the middle of a strangers storage room) may be sooooooooooo small that you literally have to go outside just to change your mind on this entire subject! lmbo :)

Actual Topics

Hopefully, you're all giggly by now after seizing an opportunity to brighten your day by laughing at my pain. Its cool, that's why I'm writing this. However, we've got to key in on some tough topics for a minute. (Just so YOU can't say... "But... but... nobody told me!"

Location, Location, Location!

Question? Is there a local sports team in your area? If so, What sport? High School? College? Pro?
I'm going to tell you a secret... It doesn't matter what level or what sport it is...JUST DO IT! I don't care if you have to volunteer after a day of classes, work study, workouts and a tutor...get there! I don't care if you have to ride 4 trains, 2 buses and walk 9 blocks...get there! Oh, maybe you have a dedicated full time gig...that's nice and all but, make an effort and find the time to get there!

In order to make yourself known, you've got to get noticed. Lord knows they didn't teach me this in school and by the grace of God...I've got it down packed! (Not always a good thing by the way.)
Anyway... contact whomever is in charge...it can be the head coach, team mom, trainer or even ask a player. Let someone know who is affiliated with the team, school or staff know your interests.

Next, show up and show up often! It sucks, but you've got to be there ALL THE TIME! Not to mention, while being there...do a GREAT JOB! No "half-ass" work please! *excuse my language* 

Also, put in a few good hours too. Remember, you are there for an opportunity...nothing else. You want your name to always be first on their minds. When your superior says... "Uhhh guys...I need someone too... before they even finish the rest of that sentence your hand better be raised as you blurt out... I"ll do it!" You're mindset has to be that no job is beneath you.
Larry the Cable Guy says it best... "Get-r-Done!"

Now... Sometimes, you'll have to move. Are you ready for that? If not, understand that you've just limited your options and cut your chances of success into 1/2, maybe less. If so, you better not be "High Maintenance or too picky." Only the strong will survive in the beginning. Even if you've gotta bum it out in your car... Do it! If you've gotta live on some one's couch for 3 to 6 months Do it! If you've gotta drive around your town early in the morning dropping in on LaQuinta Breakfast like you own the place... well... you get the point! Pack light too, Ain't Nobody Got Time For All That! You're going to be on the go...on the move...always working and always networking! It may be a full year or two before you have a place of your own and before you lay down on an actual bed. #FutonLiving #AirMattress #SoreBack

Your mindset should be: Always Be Ready...so that I don't have to get ready! (A beautiful friend told me that one-Thanks TK :)

I moved from having nice apartments at LSU to a 3Bedroom 2Bath House and 2 Car garage in Indianapolis with a few Rando coworkers as roomies alllllllll the way down to a Walk-In Closet of a studio in Miami... what???? :( I thought I was supposed to be moving up in the world...not shuffling backwards. *Remind yourself to Keep Calm and Carry On!
You've got to be a soldier... willing and ready for whatever curve ball life throws your way. Best believe a curve ball is coming!

Who Do You Know + Competition

Ask yourself... do you know anyone who works in sports or entertainment? Does your mom or dad know anyone? What about your professors? Current Co-workers? Best friend? Boy/Girl toy? Your little brother may play T-ball with an All-Time Great's son. You need to find out.

The more People you know, the better. However, your whole career doesn't ride on this. In this instance, it wasn't just who I knew, but it was who knew me? Because I did some volunteer work for a guy who knew a guy...it all came full circle for me and I got a chance! Karma isn't as bad as they say she is huh??? lol

Think About It: 1000, 1, 24, 7
When I landed the gig at the NCAA...it was reported that 600 applications had been received for 19 positions. Similar to those statistics, a Coach at Stanford once told me something like this:

• 1000 people will apply for the same gig you do (If not more)
• 1 person will ultimately get the job
• 24 hours a day...you better be on your grind and making a name for yourself
• 7 days a week... you'll constantly be auditioning for the next opportunity that comes your way, and like Rocko says, "You ain't even know it!"

With that being said my friend... how about you log onto LinkedIn and FB right now and get to networking! lol You never know who knows someone you need to get to know until you ask. Once you apply online, you've gotta find someone to connect with you, some will inside yourself to step outside of your comfort zone, someway to get your little resume in front of the right person.

Note: Anybody just won't do! Its got to be the Hiring Manager!

Hours

The hours are simple... 8-5, clock out....then go home and relax... ... ... ... NOT! Yeah right.
Be assured that you'll be working your tale off! Daily! Weekends! Holidays! Oh, and that special thing you do...you know that trip you always take annually where you have a blast, kick it with friends and family while laughing until your heart is content...yeah about that...its probably in jeopardy!
Hours are sometimes before the sun rises, sometimes after the sun sets. I can't even give you a direct schedule because its sports. Just understand that Overtime is a key word. And, like LSU Head Football Coach Les Miles would say, "Men! It takes a little more to be a Champion!"
The TV networks control the game times, and your boss will ultimately inform you when you can go home. Just bring lots and lots of snacks. We all know like the Snickers commercials "We aren't ourselves when we're hungry!" lol

Pay

Pahahahahahahh. I can't help but laugh at the fact that at some point I thought I'd be earning a Million Dollar Salary! Good luck bro!
Understand that people will kill to get your job in sports. Yes, your job! The one that has you pulling the 100 lbs. coolers off the bottom of the bus as you pull a few muscles in your lower back after being cramped in the back seat right in front of the bathroom; hoping continuously that no one ate Indian or Mexican food for lunch during the 8 hours of travel with the team, or the one that has you washing dirty towels, socks and players shorts in the wee hours of the morning when you can barely keep your eyes open, or  even the one that has your lips chapped and fingers bleeding from paper cuts due to all the envelops you've been licking over a 2 hour period all the while feeling like you're in solitary confinement while the A/C chills your bones. (If you have A/C.)

The Fan in YOU

Lord forbid you work for your favorite team or get to spend time standing on the same surface or in the same room as an Iconic childhood hero! This is always exciting to watch. You have to understand...there is no room for you to be unprofessional. It looks bad on you, it looks bad on the organization and I'm sure the player, dancer, coach or whatever doesn't need any added attention; let the media do their job please.

You have to be unbiased in so many situations. Thank goodness for my journalism classes. If you're ever in the Press Box of an event, don't think you'll be brining your tin can of Chicago's Finest Popcorn (Garretts) along with pom-poms and a huge neon sign that says, "Beyoncé! Will You Marry Me? or Tom! Throw me your love... I'll catch it!"

No! That is not going to cut it, nor will it ever happen. Then again, if it does happen you'll be kindly escorted away by two guys who strong-arm people for a living and are taking bets on throwing you outside on your head. By this point...if you're lucky enough, you just might make it on ESPN's Not-Top-10 Plays! lol

Oh, whatever happens...never ask for a photo or autograph...you're a professional. Your job is to be the "Silent Backdrop." While you're standing there...inches away from Cam Newton's sweat dripping on a fan or a hug away from touching RGIII's last twisted Braid or Dreads (whatever they are)...simply do a little victory dance in your mind! Sing a cheer to yourself, "G-O. G-O. Me Me Me. Go Me. Go Me. I made RGIII's credentials this week!" lol Pretty sad I know.

Everything we do is for the fans. The Ultimate fan experience is what we are trying to provide! Its our job to give the fan an escape from the norm. From the tailgating, to the party planning, to all the group leaders and unique in-game experiences, to the luxury seats all the way up to the free gifts in the Nose-bleed seats, these folks paid good money for these seats and they don't need some snot nose kid with a credential stealing their thunder! They've got enough to fight for and they'll sure let you have it if they ever feel that you've slighted them in any manner. Please believe this!

Its the fans that watch on TV. Its the fans that shop with our sponsors. Its the fans that surf the web and visit the team store. Its the fans that buy these tickets and plan for months at a time for these games. Generations at a time...father-son, mother-daughter, grand dad and grand son, guys night out or Ladies night, and even the youth days...this is all about the Fan in them, not about the Fan in you. So, don't be bitter, just understand...you are a professional and you should never draw attention to yourself unless its by doing a phenomenal job ONLY.

TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT... REAL TALK TRUE STORY.
Working in sports can suck... but I've had a great time doing it!
Enjoy a few pics.

:)

OG & Mark Cuban

Bucs Game!!!

Cubs Game and Lady Irish Practice

MLB Tour in NYC

ESPN U Audition

Sony Open in MIA

Catching a Panthers Game in NC

In Hotlanta!!! ATL Shawty!

 Jags Stadium Tour

Director of Football Ops for Rollins College



 Chicago Fire MLS Stadium Tour

Chicago Bulls Nuff Said

The World's Greatest!!! MJ

Leo Buckley Stadium: Friday Night Lights in Texas!!!

 OG & Patrick Peterson LSU Tigers

2010 NCAA Interns

Club HYDE Game 6

OG and some Ball Playaz Game 7

Game 7 NBA Finals

The DJ Irie Foundation

The 2013 NBA Finals

Witness Miami Dolphins 2013



Mrs. Carter Tour- BEYONCE

Only the BEST Concert known to man...

Beyonce,

 

I'd like to personally thank you! Thank you for thanking each and every one of us for supporting you! Thank you for showering us all with your love. Thank you for being humbled by our presence and for sharing your love of Life, love of dance, love of passion and love of music with us all. We're blessed to have you and you to have us. For the songs that sang to the tune of our lives, for the words that spoke life to our hearts, and for the melodies that kept hope alive, we thank you.

 

If there was ever a time where I felt like I knew you, it was through your concert. What an EXPERIENCE! Since attending the Essence Festival back when and missing out... I've only heard of how amazing of a performance you put on...NOW I SEE! NOW I SEE! NOW. I. SEE.

 

You not only LIVED UP TO THE HYPE; YOU SURPASSED IT! ONCE AGAIN...WE THANK YOU.

 

I thank you for giving other performers an opportunity as well! Your band held it down as did your light crew!

 

2 Thumbs UP to.... !!!

Singer Luke James

This dude KILLED IT! I was walking around our suite trying to grab some grub...right... Then found myself running to see who was holding it down on stage! "My name is Luuuuuuuuke Jamesssssssss!" Luke made sure to remind us! lol He was a beast though. Had the ladies screaming as he handed out Roses to them all. He's up and coming...show some love.

Luke James... singing his heart out!

For more LJ visit: http://whoislukejames.com/



 

The Les Twins

These guys were SICK!!! Killed it! Beast Mode! They were in just about every scene! High flying, dancing, playing guitar and keeping the crowd ALIVE! Big Ups go out to these cats!

Be on the look out!!! They may be the best dancers the world has ever seen???!

 

 

 

 

 

For more info visit: http://www.lestwinsworld.com/

 

!!! See What You Missed !!!

 

 

To Mrs. Carter...THANK YOU! We Love You!

~Passion~

I want to wake up every morning with a PASSION!

I want to wake up with a SMILE :) on my face & be able to say...

 !!! I LOVE WHAT I DO !!!

 

Say it with me...

I LOVE WHAT I DO!

I LOVE WHAT I DO!

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE WHAT I DO!

 

I caution you not to live with a lie.

I beg you to chase after what seems too far.

I plead that you show mercy on your soul and listen when it speaks.

I warn you about the buried dream; the lost vision; the hidden truths.

 

"I'm flat, I'm bare, cold and silent. At night only the wind howls as the leaves fall from the rustling trees. The company I keep...leaves their loved ones at my feet with tears to weep. Some young, some old, they'll rest here until their God collects their souls. Plans un-plotted, books never written, ideas never shared, and dreams never birthed, all rest within my grasp. Your very hero, friend, family and foe are who I speak of. "The Cemetery: The richest land on earth!"

 

 

Don't lose your riches like the rest of the world. Chase your dreams relentlessly. Be moved by the very impulse within. Like a mad man on the loose, take shelter and hide your goals close to your heart. Plan your escape beneath the Eyes of Doubt. Dream the dream of being free. Then implement the unthinkable and watch the World's faces as they look in awe! Be in constant pursuit of what you love. At the end of the day, No one desires what YOU desire more than YOU desire it!

 

Don't lie to yourself...Its not easy. (Everyone can't do this!)

Don't cheat yourself... this journey is not for the faint, weak or timid.

Don't steal from your riches... It may cost you everything you have.

 

Regardless...like a true friend reminded me: 

"My pursuit may have left me broke but I'm rich off fulfillment and that for me is the only wealth that counts!"

 

 

As my heart beats! My heart breaths! With each breath comes life...comes hope... comes dreams.

 

I'm obsessed with you. I'm in love with you. I'm one with you. I am you. "Passion," is her name. She's everything I live for. She's everything I've ever known and wanted. Without her love, I'm at a loss; loss of  words, a loss of worth, a loss of purpose. Without her...I am no one.

 

Without her presence my mind wonders. Without her present, I begin to ask: When will my last breath be? What will ultimately become of me? Can I handle? Can I deal? Hell no! My love for Passion is true. My love for Passion is real.

If $MONEY$ where no object...

~If money were no object~

 

What would I desire & Who would I become?

Are you just getting out of college and don't know what you want to do?

 

Did you start a new gig and after 2 months found that you indeed hate it?

 

Maybe you're a seasoned vet in your field and you're at the top with nothing else to prove?

 

Maybe you've fallen in love and your heart is torn between several decisions?

 

I'm sure you've pondered the question: How would I really enjoy spending my life?

 

Maybe

 

Maybe the life you want to live will produce little to no money...Does it matter? Do you care?

If you say getting the money is the most important thing...you will spend your life completely wasting your time!

Regardless...of your passion... do that! Pick your passion! Chase it as if its the last race of your career. Chase it as if your life depended on it. Chase it as if the stakes were ALL that mattered.

 

 

Remember: Follow your <3

Somebody is interested in everything 

 

If you do something long enough, eventually you'll become a master at it! It seriously doesn't matter what it is. Once you master it, like in the audio... you'll be able to charge a good fee for it! Don't worry if anyone will be interested. Someone is always interested! Where you find one, you'll find others.

 

NOTE: If you do things you don't like doing in order to go on living that is to go on to do things you don't like doing is simply... #STUPID

Is it really better to have a short life doing what you love versus a long life doing what you dread?

 

I vote: YES!

 

Isn't the saying "Time flies when you're having fun!"

 

I want you to understand that life is miserable regardless of how much money you're making if you absolutely hate what you're doing. Forget the money!

I Ask You Now:

What do you desire?

What sort of situation would you like?

Who do you really want to be?

What makes you whole?

What moves you?

Why do you breath?

Why do you dream?

What is...your passion?

What is your legacy?

Who are you?

*Re-post to those in need. Share your deepest desire! :)

Independencia de Venezuela: Do I need my Passport?

 

July 7, 2013 Independencia de Venezuela at Sun Life Stadium in Miami, Fl.

Independencia de Venezuela

 

After the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's passing, the people of Venezuela can again have a reason to celebrate here in Miami.

 

Today, July 7th, 2013 marks their day of celebration here at Sun Life Stadium. Independence however was celebrated back on July 5, 2013 and gained back in 1811... Just 202 years ago this land earned its Independence!

The celebration at Sun Life Stadium marked the 22nd Annual Festival Independencia de Venezuela with an estimated 8,000 guests in attendance. Special performances by Gilberto Santa Rosa, Reynaldo Armas, Caramelos de Cianuro and Billo’s Caracas Boys kept the crowd dancing from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. and boy was it a sight to see! Even the niños had plenty to do as a play park was set up just for them. 

A massive Shark-like water slide that went about 30 feet high kept the party going for many of the children. In addition were other water games, bumper cars, cotton candy and smoothies.

If that wasn't high risk enough for them, just to the left was a Zip-Line for two! Standing about 75-feet-tall two people latch on and jump! as they resemble super heroes flying through the air with only smiles and giggles. Children and parents alike had a phenominal time. It was truely fun in the sun!

 All the fixings of a traditional Spanish dinner were present: carne, empanadas, arroz, plantanes, etc. Leaving each customer with a happy and healthy belly!

I'm still trying to get recipes!

The 2013 Miami Dolphins New Logo & Exhibit was present too! The Organization had a great presence at the event as they played highlights from years past and present to all the current and future fans.

 

Notable Sponsors included: Banesco, El Venezolano, Buchanan's, Goya, Lycatel, Tiara, Cafe Bustelo, AT&T, Santa Barbara and IDT Telecom to name a few.

 

Hasta la próxima! Feliz día Indepence mis Venezulans



The Humble Hustle: NFL here I come!!!

Dropped cold. Pushed out. Phased and fired from my own plans.
Not a second chance in sight, or the prayer of a "Do-Over."
Forget it...its all over. No plans, no help, no future. All over a pair of fake J's.

This was the scene after my Best Professional Friend fired me from our business that hadn't even launched yet. All the ideas, the plans and connections were set up perfectly. Who I didn't know... he knew and who he couldn't reach, I had in my right hand. We were the perfect recipe to take over the world him and I. But, as fate would have it... Orlando wasn't the place for me. My life in "My City" was over.

To be honest, it never felt right to me...my spirit wanted to be free; wanted to breath and wanted to see the culture that is Miami! The Magic City they tell me! The place where billboards read "Any given night, you can make it BIG!" Where people travel to make dreams come true and where the rest of the world learns what lies within you! It'll make or break you!

After being let go...or fired I should say... All I could think was:

I'm 25.

I'm broke.

I have no job in sight.

But, I have 2 Master's Degrees!

 

At this time in my life, I had opportunities come and go. MLB, Dallas Cowboys, University of Oregon, NBA, Foundation work, Tulane University and finally Steve Harvey. For one reason or another, each door opened and closed...some harder than others. None were meant for me and none meant to be.





My mind scrambled to find answers...answers I've been searching all my life. They said I had time. They said it all would come to me. They asked me to be open... They asked me to volunteer... and more importantly, to be patient. I did all that.

They told me to study...They told me to make A's and B's. I did that!
They asked me to out-work my classmates, teammates and peers...They asked me to be punctual and honest... I did that.

They asked me to attend tutoring for help...To see my teachers after, before and during class... I did that. They said attend seminars, networking events and to shake hands and greet people of influence. I did that too. I did everything I'd been asked to do.

I did my 12 years, then my 4 and another 2... 18 years is what I've added up, how about you?
18 years of sitting in your desks and taking your tests. Listening to your lectures and taking your notes all the while others sat around passing notes and jokes.

Did you once teach me about family? Success? Love? Passion? or Ambition?
Did you once teach me how to balance my checkbook, financial planning or law?
What about the truth of the rat race or the corporate games around the work place?

No...no...no. You didn't. I mean...they didn't.

You (meaning The System) silently allowed me to live in a fairytale. It sat there quietly sucking the financials from my family's bank accounts. It quietly passed my athletic classmates who couldn't read or write, only crippling them day and night. It forced out my loud friends versus loving them with discipline. And the grandest tragedy of them all is showing the favoritism to the prettiest, cutest and most divine girls in the halls... teaching my lady friends that it pays to be the sexiest of them all.

Its funny...You managed to do all of this while taking my God away from me and away from the children to come after me.

My little nephew won't understand why God is no longer in the Pledge of Allegiance. He won't understand why all the signs now say "Happy Holidays" vs. "Merry Christmas."
Or, will he? Thanks to his Family he will, but not according to "The System."

To sum up my struggle...

"I took my heart away from money & I wasn't interested in fame. I pray that never changes.

My ambition is priceless; something that's in my veins."

 

"My pursuit may have left me broke but I'm rich off fulfillment and that for me is the only wealth that counts..."

 

If its your eyes that have discovered these feelings, I pray that God blesses you. If not through these words...then perhaps through a provoking thought. I'm not perfect, and in no way proclaim to be. These are my stories...my truths and my worries. Discover yours and share when you feel the time is right.

 

MIAMI

I swear I love you... love your tropical breeze, welcoming palm trees and diverse culture. I swear you're the only city where I feel as though I've traveled the world around and visited Cuba twice in one day. The first stop was for a Café con leche and the second was for a Colada (A colada is a larger cup of cafecito that comes with little thimble-sized cups for sharing with friends.) :)

 

Though you haven't been the easiest city to get used to... you've sure given me the "Star-Treatment" at times.

 

Being here has made me realize I'm thankful for...

• The Miami Dolphins
• Group Sales
• The Miami Heat
• Game 6 & Game 7 of the NBA Finals
• DJ Irie and the Irie Foundation
• Coconut Grove
• My Roommate of 3 months- Gabe
• His Couch!
• The city of Aventura #Gorgeous
• South Beach and ALL it has to offer!
• Learning Spanish Daily! (always a + :)
• Celebs
• All the stories
• The culture

NOT so thankful for the...

• Getting Scammed $1500 for housing
• Getting my car windows smashed after Game 7 of the NBA Finals
• Gas Prices
• Cost of living
• Crazy Drivers
• Fake People
• Traffic
• Early morning accidents
• Botox & Implants

HUMBLE HUSTLE: Continued...

 

Pastor Jerry Q. Parries of Christian Family Worship Center had asked me to come to church on Thursday night. I figured since I had been fired by my best friend from the only possible shot of income that I had and really had no back up plan...how bad could a Thursday service be? I had nothing to loose right? Looking back...I actually had everything to gain!

 

So, I went. It was a "Word," that was just for me...allowing me to realize that my character had been tested. This was my season and throughout the waiting period and the accomplishment of my masters, I'd been preparing for the journey that was about to take place. Little did I know... after a few tears, a few prayers and a dream...I'd be catapulting my life in a new direction; toward South Beach!

Riding On Faith

5:45 A.M.

The alarm sounds, and I spring out of bed having finished having a dream that I drove down to Miami and landed a job! It wasn't clear at all, I just knew I was supposed to be in Miami on a Friday. Lucky for me, the dream happened in between Thursday night after church and that Friday morning.

 

I rinse my face, brush my teeth and grab my favorite suit from the closet. I like to call it "Beach Beige." I also grabbed a bright orange paisley floral necktie... you know, to stand out a bit.

 

Jumped in the car at about 6:00 A.M. and pulled out of my pitch black neighborhood.

 

Just me and the open road. 220 miles worth of thoughts, questions and attempts by the little voice in my head screaming... "You're Crazy! Turnnnnnnnnn Baaaaaaaaack!"

 

However, my heart had already made an agreement with my pride and spirit that this was going to take place regardless of what my mind had to think or say about the entire situation.

 

 

I'll spare you the singing and near death experiences provoked by dozing off... and fast forward to the sign that read "Entering Broward County." By this point, I'd called everyone I could possibly reach within the Dolphins organization. I'd left messages, voicemail and even dropped a few notes via Linkedin.

 

Etttummm.... Nothing worked!

 

I'd driven 4 hours and received ABSOLUTELY NO CALL BACKS!

How is this for a start? On top of that, my phone dies from using all the apps on the way down. I find a local university; NOVA South Eastern University. Gorgeous campus by the way... with an amazing library. It smelled of excellence and prestige. I felt like I could really regroup and get my game plan together there. So, I did!

 

I juiced up the cell and hopped on Facebook of all things. I mean... who isn't on FB now-a-days... right? I figured someone would be online that was in or around the city of Miami.

 

To my surprise, an individual by the name of Ryan Totka (Sports Marketing Expert) was on FB chat. So, I hit'em up!

 

OG: Hey Bro!

 

Ryan: Hey buddy.

 

OG: I'm in Miami, do you know anyone here? (Saying I'd be surprised if he didn't!)

 

Ryan: Cool... yeah, my buddy!

 

OG: Who is your buddy and what does he do?

 

Ryan: Dave, he works in Sales.

 

NOTE: Its at this moment that I almost fell out of my seat!!! I couldn't believe anything I was reading.  Was this really happening? Are you telling me I drove down here on a whim, entered some random library and hopped on FB and now I'm potentially going to set up a meeting with someone from the Miami Dolphins? #Sick #Blessed

 

Pinch Me Now!

 

OG: No Way!!! I applied for a job in group sales last night!

 

Before I could even ask Ryan to have Dave give me a call... my phone rings!!!

 

Ring...Ring... "Hello." Hi, is this Orlando? My good buddy Ryan Totka told me you were in town!"

 

The rest of this is pure madness...a mix of swift walking and a pinch of speeding to get to my interview! All I could think to my self was... "Boy ohhhhh boy... God made a way!" & Here goes nothing!

 

By time I'd raced out of the NOVA library, ran across campus in a bright beige suit, and frantically located my car in the infamous parking garage only 6 minutes had passed, but all the sweat I could muster...had made close friends with the fabric in my suit! Dave mentioned that he'd hate to rush an interview and that he'd be leaving in 30 minutes or so. (I'm on the clock!) 

 

To me...everything was on the line. This is the moment I'd been waiting for. Go Big or Go Home!  I drove across town in a reassembling fashion of World Champion Racing Driver Mario Andretti, making every light, going a friendly 5 miles over the speed limit. I may have cut-off a few drivers  along the way, but don't worry I sent them a thank you card in the mail! (Not really.)

 

Amazingly enough, I pulled into the welcome gates of Sun Life Stadium only to realize in the midst of my short lived racing career, I'd totally forgot Dave's name!!! (OMG) o_0 #EpicFail

 

I thought to myself... "Seriously...this can't be happening. I know it was something like Big Mack?!"

 

The Security Guard greets me and asks who I came to visit...As I'm sweating profusely, and in a state of awe and disbelief all at the same time...I piece together a few words that suggested I was trying to meet with someone in the sales department!

 

I guess somewhere in my gibberish I hit a few key words and the pearly white gates where lifted! And the rest is history!

 

I work in the NFL!



 

 

Getting into Sports: Humble Hustle (Vol I) by: Orlando Gunn

So you want to work in sports huh?! Cool.

But 1st... Take a look at a few things   o_0

Remember...That's great and I'm happy for you...reason being is because you've at least identified the industry of your choice. However, before making an almost permanent decision based on temporary emotions, I'd caution you to take a glance at a few things:

Questions???

1) Why do you want to work in sports?

• Is it the free swag?
• Is it access to players?
• Is it access to games?

Heck, it could be as simple as "I think it would be pretty cool." Right?

I get it. These are some of the same things I had in mind. Having played sports my whole life...the SWAG (free stuff) appeal has always been around. So yes...its there and so is the swag. Whatever team or organization you work for...get ready to be a walking advertisement! lol

Access to players: Hummmm... Stop Right There! Don't do it! Don't think it!
This is like a toddler eating a basket of poison ivy after mistaking them for mint leaves! (Gasp! o_0 )
This kind of situation is not good for you or for anyone else.
The relationship between you and players/coaches really should be uhhh... How do I say this?

Ohhh, NON-EXISTANT!

My advice is opposite the famous Nike slogan... "Just DON'T Do It!" Or, operate at your own risk. It doesn't take a scientist to tell you that these relationships are frowned upon. :(
Neither does it take me telling you. There is a local TV Network by the name of ESPN that does a great job revealing the latest scandals involving Coaches and Players who just happened to meet up, hook up or love up on staff members and assistants. You can only imagine the incidents that took place next.
Lord forbid you be the one lonely, little intern to catch your 15 minutes of fame and an eternity of embarrassment!
Ehhh...Enough on that.

Ok...the fun part: Access to games! Yes, this is possible, but not all the time. Usually in a professional organization, there are always hook-ups somewhere on tickets. Concerts, Shows, Games, you name it... Somebody, somewhere has Comps!

However, you need to ask yourself... "Am I full-time?" lol

If you have any doubt about your "Full-Time" status... you're not getting any comps! :) SMILE
I can remember when I worked as an Intern at the NCAA, I thought I had guaranteed tickets to every event that came to Indianapolis. WRONG! Things like Tenure, Full-Time, and Status come into play.
So, as an intern forget it... you just want a job, so focus on that. Anything else is a bonus!

Last one... "I think working in sport is pretty cool!" You bet your last $1 it is! Without it...I'd be lost in life. Probably serving my ungrateful customers, running franticly through a disgusting kitchen trying not forget an order all the while taking a new one and remembering that I'm banking on this next tip to pay rent... So Smile! ( I say to myself).

~Or~

I'd probably be staring at the bland fabric that surrounded my 4ft by 4ft cube, with a unique odor of its own in a habitat of demoralizing individuals, who don't care about life or merely get their morning inspiration with a shot of Starbucks straight to the vein! To top that off, like some boot-leg Harry Potter formula, it seems to wear off by lunch or at least 2 p.m.
Mind you... this is all happening on the mid to bottom floor of some major high rise building surrounded by a continuous hustle and bustle of a polluted environment that I can't even afford to live in...(If I was that lucky.)

I can't even begin to tell you all the great, fun, back-stage, VIP access, amazing, Did You Instagram That?, breathtaking, history making moments I've been a part of simply because I work, eat, sleep and breath SPORT-TAINMENT!
Its been the gift that just keeps on giving.
For every day I caught myself sick from the idea of going to work, I could always depend on 10 other days that were simply "Sport-Tastic!"

SIMPLE Keys to Success

• Make a Career Goals List
• Research all the people who are living the life you'd like to live
• Take notes on their path
• Volunteer wherever a sports team is present

• Know what you want!
• Note: People Can't Help You If You Don't

• Network: I don't mean "Collect Business Cards," but BUILD RELATIONSHIPS!
• Be Tactfully Aggressive
• Do a great job
• Understand "No task" is beneath you
• Take Risks
• Be Confident
• Seize the Moments
• Prepare your elevator speech
• DO A GREAT JOB!

• Oh, and get your MASTERS.... uhhh wait, hold on to that thought. 0_o

 

Please believe...there is much more to this...but this should give you a great start.

 

Websites you ask...

 

Props go out to Baylor for this one: http://business.baylor.edu/kirk_wakefield/prosports/getajob.htm

 

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/

Teamwork Online: http://www.teamworkonline.com/

Indeed.com: http://www.indeed.com/

WorkInSports: http://www.workinsports.com/