Making history....long overdue...in the NFL.....

What a way to start the year! As Barack initiates his trek for the '08 presidency, more ground breaking steps have been taken in the racially sensitive and sometimes unjust arena of professional football. This was all surmised by the poise and leadership exhibited by Tony Dungy of the Colts and Lovie Smith of the Bears, as they guided their teams to conference championships ...next stop..the SuperBowl in Miami on Feb 4th. Isn't so sweet that the first time a Black coach has reached the Superbowl will feature two from each sideline? Oh, how sweet it is.

...but it doesn't stop there.....

A day later, the coveted franchise of Pittsburgh (Steelers) announced the hiring of Mike Tomlin as head coach, following the immortals Cowher and Knoll. His arrival is receiving much criticism and surprise as he beat out internal candidate Russ Grimm, whom has a more experienced resume.


So, with the success demonstrated on Sunday by Dungy & Smith and the trust that the Rooneys (Pittsburgh ownership) has bestowed upon Tomlin, what does this all mean?

Does it imply that Blacks in leadership is now getting its just exposure and opportunity?

Will this open doors for others?

Is the attitude of America changing?

Absolutely, Absolutely and Not just yet!

I salute the accomplishments of these three individuals and my support to the other Black coaches in all sporting arenas is extended. I truly hope that this will be a catalyst of more doors to be cracked....however, still staying realistic and humble that it will still take us to KICK the door open!

What will 2007 present for Blacks seeking Leadership?

The title of this blog was influenced heavily on the recent public appreciation and successes of African American politicians Barack Obama (Sen-Ill) and Deval Patrick (Gov-Mass) of 2006. Barack is that single source of energy and fervor for Black America as he begins his long and hard fought race for Presidency in '08. Deval broke new ground as he made history in New England by becoming the first Black Governor of Massachusetts, and now only the 2nd in the nation.

Have all the proverbial barriers been broken? Not quite. Yes, we (Blacks) alongside the Democrats made history last year and there is much hope and promise that we haven't seen in almost a decade since Bush inherited, I mean stole, the presidency.

The question though is about change and leadership for this year. The question not only focuses on politics, but also in the home, workplace, community, businesses, and the globe.

It is now the time for Black Men to become Fathers and role models for their children, the educated to become more selfless and greater mentors for those new to the game and our spiritual leaders (pastors, elders) to show more of an interest in their surrounding community than how much is in the collection plate. Not to step on any toes, but the opportunity for us to control our destiny should be our goal as opposed to complaining about the outside injustices.

As we look at black-on-black crime, obesity in the community, small numbers of blacks in the workplace, take a look in the mirror and ask yourself, "What am I doing to Lead our people out of this situation?"

Am I mentoring a newcomer on the job on the P&Q's of survival? Am I taking a role of assisting the church with its activities besides keeping that 2nd pew warm each Sunday? Am I showing my daughter what to look for in a boyfriend or husband, based on how well I treat my wife?

The quest for excellence begins with you and I. We must take control and show actions alongside our lip service in order to gain more respect and equality in '07. Not ignorant to the social injustices and racism that still exists and strengthens by the day, our cross-hairs still need to be aligned on our immediate surroundings. Once we improve them, it will be viral and spread from community to city to state and nation.

If you ask me the question that is posted, I will respond..."All that we can handle..if we just go after it!"

Have a Blessed week!