A heartfelt relief!

I don’t usually side with politicians, whether they be from the UK or elsewhere but I would like to say my heartfelt congratulations to Barack Obama on wining four more years as President of the United States.

The reason I say this is two-fold.

I was offended when Mr Romley, his opponent, citied us over the Olympics and para-Olympics, saying London wasn’t ready to host the greatest athletic show on earth.

London, in spite of suffering from a double-dip recession (look that up on Wikipedia), did just that.

Then Mr Bromley’s running mate attacked the UK, having a National Heath Service (NHS).

This I also found offensive as I certainly didn’t plan or expect to have Multiple Screlosis (MS).

It just happened to me, for reasons I cannot explain.

One thing is certain; I’m very grateful for the help I’ve received from many, including the administrators, nurses and doctors at various hospitals in London.

I couldn’t afford the treatments I had, including brain scans.


I'm also very grateful for the kindness of strangers, including bus drivers/conductors, who lower the bus they're driving, for me.

They have all been there for me in helping me to understand my symptoms and helped me to come to terms with having this illness.

That’s also the reason why I hope Mr Obama, now that he has four more years, does stay true to his word in allowing America to have its own NHS.

Being a great country, it should be compulsory that no-one is denied medical treatment, even if they are vile or offensive.

As to do so, lets those people off the hook in facing up to their responsibilities too, so in the words said by another American President, let’s do it!

Light and love

Andria

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PS, to see more of my work, click here.

The Barbados Coffins

Happy Holidays everybody!

Although I won’t be trick or treating I appreciate that for most, it’s a harmless holiday so I hope all goes well for you.

I hope this story goes well to help you enjoy this special day...

Being a fan of unsolved mysteries, I have encountered two cases that defy logic. One is Amityville, the house on the hill, in North America.

The other is the mystery of the Barbados Vault.

Known humorously as Rhinna-land, other notable figures who can trace their ancestry to this island include the US Attorney General Eric Holder, retired boxer Muhammad Ali (Clay) and rapper LL Cool J.

Other US noticables include the Dash family and deceased boxer Joe Louis, who can also trace their ancestry to people from this island in the sun as many have the same family name.

Then you've got the Rock family - U.S funnyman Chris Rock take note.

The same goes for the West surname. KanYe may take an interest.

The retired Brazil footballer Pele can also trace his ancestory to this country.

The same can probably be said of the Republican former secretary of State Condoleezza Rice

Barbados is a small island. It’s a well known fact that if you have the same surname, then you’re related to that person, whether you’ve met - or like - them or not. Nevertheless, back to the issue in mind.

There was a burial vault belonging to the Chase family, who were slave owners on this island. In the early nineteenth century, the head of the family was a harsh and ruthless man called, wait for it, The Honourable Thomas Chase, who was a tyrant to both his slaves and family.

His daughter, Dorcas Chase, is believed to of starved herself to death because of her dad’s brutality. In July 1812, her coffin joined those already in the vault, a woman called Goddard and an unnamed baby.

On 9 August, 1812, the coffin of Thomas Chase himself was carried down the steps to the family volt in Christ Church, an area of Barbados that’s still known to be highly valuable.

As the heavy stone slab was moved, the lamplight revealed that inside the crypt, an intruder had been inside, as the baby’s coffin was found upside down in a corner, while Dorcas Chase’s coffin lay on its side. Mrs Goddard was undisturbed.

The odd thing was that there was no sign of forced entry. But because Thomas Chase was a much-hated man, his family assumed the desecration was the result of rebellious black slaves.

Therefore the coffins were simply replaced and the vault closed up again but this time a marble slab sealed in place with cement. But the slaves who carried out the work were alarmed as they suspected black magic, better known as voodoo.

Yet when the next burial took place, four years later, the vault was again in confusion, with all the coffins in different positions and again, four weeks later, when a man murdered in a slave rebellion, was buried there.

Yet the cement around the slab was untouched. Examination of the vault showed there was no other way of entering the vault.

When the next burial took place, in 1819, there was widespread curiosity, as even if the cement was chipped away, the slab protecting the entrance to the vault was very heavy to move and this was because the heavy lead coffin of Thomas Chase was against it.

Yet again, all of the coffins had been disturbed, except Mrs Goddard, who was left leaning against the wall.

When it comes to voodoo, it’s a well known fact that all countries in the Caribbean have people who practice this belief. Nowadays, in Barbados, this is associated with the north, past the town of Speightstown (pronounced Spice-town) but in the 1800s, this belief was practised all over Barbados, a country that is partly in the Caribbean Sea.

The other half is in the  in the Atlantic Ocean.

As a result, the governor of the island, Lord Combermere, who was present at the 1819 burial and heard about the rumours surrounding the last, ordered the floor of the vault should be scattered with sand, which would show any footprints of intruders, and a small pile of sand should be at the entrance of the crypt with the spade left in.

Eight months later, in April 1820, guests at a dinner party held by Lord Combermere, began to discuss the vault and it was decided to re-open it.

When they approached the entrance, the pile of sand and the spade were still there, untouched. The Lord was pleased with himself.

But when Combermere opened it, he and other guests must of been wetting themselves. All of the coffins, except Mrs Goddard, were scattered. The sand on the floor was undisturbed.

This time, Lord Combermere ordered the coffins buried elsewhere. The tomb has remained empty ever since.

This is a case where all the natural explanations fail. The coffins cannot have been disturbed by floods, or Mrs Goddard’s wooden coffin would have been disturbed.

The story cannot be dismissed as pure fiction as there were too many witnesses who said the same thing, including the local man of God.

Furthermore, why would a vicar, a govenor and other respectable people of that day want to invent such a story? Your guess is as good as mine!

Up to this day, no one has succeeded in explaining the riddle of the Chase family vault.

Although I'm of Barbadian descent, for this month, I'm glad I don't live there!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ONE AND ALL!

Andria

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To see other copies of my work, click here.

Rest in peace, dear cousin.

I’d like to say I’m very grateful to have known Paul Sealy.

He was a good, loving, kind and courageous man, who clearly made a difference in people’s lives for the better.

I’m proud to say John was my cousin and I’m very proud to say all who knew him will miss him dearly, including me.

He really was someone who made the room shine wherever he was.

When I last visited him and his girlfriend, he made me welcome, happy and pleased to be in his presence.

I will always miss you, dear Paul and hope that today, your funeral, will be a splendid celebration of your life and show how much you meant to everyone.

I hope your sister Jennifer Dibb, (another beloved sister of his, is Jackie) who has worked very hard and tirelessly in organising your funeral today, knows she too, is appreciated and valued, not just by me but by everyone who knew her brother.

John Sealy, along with Jonathon Dibb, you now sleep with the stars, now and always.

Love

Andria

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My, my, my...

Well racism in football rears its ugly head again.

This time, the victim’s were members of the England under 21 players against the so-called soccer fans of the Serbia under 21's - I won't repeat the details as I'm sure you already know them.

I admire all of the English under 21 players and support staff, who clearly had a lot to endure both on and off the pitch.

I also am grateful that the Serbian Football Association has finally apologised for the actions of some people during this match.

But I also remember South Africa during the days of Apartheid – state approved racism, where White people were the so-called ‘master race’.

Then the Asian people were the next level, then the Coloureds, who were of mixed black Hottentots and White ancestry – they too, like the others, racially abused black people, using the derogatory word, Kaffir.

Then there are the blacks, who were the lowest, who were denied access to even a decent education.

The reason why I mention this is because there was one thing that did finally end this awful system: sanctions.

There were others who embarrassingly undermined this by going to Apartheid-run South Africa, such as the pop group Queen.

Let’s not forget the England rebel tour, when cricketers, led by Mike Gatting, went to this country, without official approval, in the 1980s.

Then there was another tragedy during the 1980s regarding English football: hooligans.

For years during the 1980’s the English Football Association would say sorry to other country’s until the horrible crush of 39 Juventus fans on the 29th May 1985, at the Heysel Stadium, in Brussels, the capital of Belgium.

That’s when UEFA finally lost its patience with the English Football Association just saying sorry.

Again, as with South Africa, there was only one thing left to do: sanctions.

This is why I do understand the old saying that goes along the lines of; sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind.

The bottom line is, sanctions against South Africa and the English football clubs in the 1980s did do the job and made them both accountable and responsible.

I’m very glad to say Apartheid and hooligans at English football matches, as a whole, are a thing of the past.

Yes, there are a few South Africans who do still wave the old Apartheid flag of South Africa.

Hooligans at football matches can still be a problem, as was demonstrated three years ago at the FA Cup match of West Ham against Millwall FC.

But on both issues, there is firm action within England to deal with such undesirables.

The English FA made sure all rioters both within and outside the West Ham ground were caught and dealt with by the legal authorities.

Those South Africans, regardless of their race, who now wave the old flag of South Africa during rugby matches in the UK will now be arrested for inciting racial hatred, which is an offence under the Police and Criminal Evidence act of 1984, also known as P.A.C.E.

So please don’t make excuses like Chicago Bulls player and Serbian national Marko Jaric who says Britain’s link with slavery and hooliganism means we have no right to criticise Serbia fans for alleged racism.

Slavery happened more than 200 years ago – time and society within the UK has moved on since!

Mr Jaric should make a visit to the Anti-Slavery International museum in Liverpool, which will help to explain the meaning of the word SLAV.

It doesn’t take much to see the link, as the four letters of Slav - there are more than 10.5 billion in Serbia (courtesy of Wikipedia) should tell him something.

All that’s missing is the letter E at the end and then you’ve got the meaning of that word!

Andria

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To see other examples of my work, click here.

I did it!

Yes, I was at the the relay, on Saturday October 13th, being held to re-open six (now seven, as the Willesden Green library is facing problems) library's in the London Borough of Brent.

My start began at 1pm, which also meant I got caught in the showers (rain).

A made-up torch, not as glamorous as the Para-Olympic or the Olympic one, was used and passed on by all the bearers, myself included.

We all read out some words before sending the torch onto someone else.

I walked from the former Tokyngton ward, to the New Barham Park site, which is on the high road, Wembley, near Argos.

Because of my illness, I had to pause many times but I made it!

As I’ve said before and I’ll say it again: ONE LIFE, LIVE IT.

My words are from Lord Alfred Tennyson’s poem, Ulyses.

It’s a long poem, so I spoke these last few words, which also sums up how many of us feel about the library closures.

It also sums up why, despite the court judging against us twice, we're still here:

...see the great Achilles, whom we knew.

Though much is taken, much abides; and though we are not now that strength

Which in old days moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are.

One equal temper of heroic hearts, made weak by

Time and fate but strong in will.

To strive, to seek, to find and not to yield.

To see copies from work I’ve done, over the years, click here.

Light and Peace

Andria

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I COULDN’T BELIEVE IT!

I was travelling on public transport, on the buses, on Sunday, after 1pm – bear with me, as I’m getting to the point.


Waiting with me, at the bus stop at High Road, Wembley, outside KFC, was a woman in her fifties, with her carer, who was a younger woman, also black, in her thirties, ready to push her in the disabled spot on the number 18 bus.

When her bus came, I didn’t take it, as I was waiting for the number 182.

Sadly the disabled woman and her carer didn’t get onto that 18 bus either.

Why was this so?

Because although the bus driver did lower the bus and ejected the tram, there was another woman, her race isn’t important, who was using the same space for her child, in the buggy, who wouldn’t eject either, from the said area.

The carer politely said to the recent mum, also in her thirties, the buggy can be folded up (although it was heavily laden with shopping from a superstore) and her child could sit in her lap, as her child was at least 18 months old.

It was also said to the mum, the person in the wheelchair doesn’t have the same option as her child in the buggy, hence the reason why wheelchair users have the priority of this space but she refused to relent and made it clear, herself and her child wasn’t going to budge from that particular space.

I don’t even want to imagine what it’s going to be like for someone in the same situation, regardless as to what role you identify with, wheelchair user or new mum.

I have to admit, before I became disabled, I was horrible to a mum, travelling with two kids under four years of age, using the underground (Bakerloo line) towards the Elephant and Castle, about seven years ago.

I simply couldn’t understand what she was doing, travelling with two children who were so young, after 7.40am.

Now I realise my own stupidity and freely give this woman my sincerest, honest and heartfelt apologies.

Also, what goes around comes around.

In order to reach important medical appointments in central London, has meant I too, have to bee on public transport at various times of day.

It’s also meant that I am now being verbally abused, as I’m getting insults from the public, on both the buses and the underground, as angry people who are desperate to get to their workplace on time.

Many bosses don’t offer people the chance of flexible hours, despite having those same employees staying on over and above their hours, to make sure a good product is produced at the end of the day and in good time.

I’ve also noticed that when it’s the other way round, well, who’s willing to penalise them self?

As for the woman in a wheelchair and her carer, well they waited for another bus that came seven minutes later.

If this woman and her carer were outside London, I have a feeling they would have been waiting much longer.

Disabled people and mums with young children are a part of society and want to contribute just like everybody else.

But with problems like those I’ve just mentioned, it’s becoming clear why they still have struggles asserting their human rights, which all of us have.

I too have sat in the disabled section of busses and get insulted by able-bodied people.

A year ago, one unkind able-bodied woman, who was in her 50s and white, was sitting with her teenage daughter (who was also white), in the first two noticible seats of a red double-decker bus, when she said to me in front of everyone: “you shouldn’t be sitting there.”

I also noted there was an able-bodied white woman in her 30s sitting next to me, yet she said nothing to her.

When I explained I have Multiple Screlosis and a folded-up walking stick, which means I have every right to be sitting here, she then had a volley of excuses for her behaviour.

Before coming off the bus, I said loudly: “some people need to think before they speak!”

I stand by that, as it’s a well known fact we as a society still pick on vulnerable people, as the disappearance of five-year-old April Jones in Machynlleth, Wales shows.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, to see some of my work, click here.

A heartfelt cheerio!

That’s what I have to say regarding both the Olympics and the recently deceased Paralympics.

I’m also glad to say I thoroughly enjoyed watching both – many thanks to the BBC and Channel 4.

It really tickles me pink to say the closing ceremony for the Paralympics, I felt, was better than the closing ceremony for the Olympics.

Seeing the pop band band Coldplay and allowing a disabled man to fulfil his dreams of being a drummer for the band was a fitting tribute to the games.

Seeing both the rapper Jay-Z and Barbadian singer Rhianna performing made me forget the offensive words by one of the Channel 4 commentators, who called the one Barbadian athlete performing at the games ‘a token’ entry.

All’s well that ends well.

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At the same time, I have to admit, I’m not surprised with the crowd and athletes who booed the British Government minister George Osborne who attended an event on day five of the Paralympics at the Olympic stadium.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is vital for many disabled people; including Para Olympians, as many simply don’t get the sponsorship money or lucrative advertising deals the athletes from the Olympic Games get, especially when the games are over.

Furthermore, not every disabled person could compete in the games - my chronic fatigue, (no control over my) eye movements and lack of mobility, all due to Multiple Screlosis, mean I can’t move fast enough.

I also have asthma, which also brings on more problems. Now, due to the hay fever in the summer and flu/cold in the winter, it makes it very difficult for me to keep my weight down, which I'm concerened about as diabetes is a condition my dad has.

I assure you, I’m no welfare snob or a person who prides themselves on being in this way: it’s just the way it is.

I once prided myself on being a person who could get up and go anywhere I wanted. Now I can’t.

London is an expensive city and the DLA helps me to keep my head above water.

As it’s thanks to the DLA, I’m able to get my shirts amended to zips, as it’s embarrassing for me to always get my mum to button up my shirts (I can no longer perform this simple act), before heading to work.

I’m not going to reveal where I work but the top bosses who employ me know of my condition.

I did inform the Government department of Work and Pensions (DWP) of this job, as I’m so proud that I can still contribute to this country by having tax and national insurance deducted from my pay.

Even now, I get a work colleague to pin my tie on me; another signs me in. We do have an electronic card that clocks us in but we are still expected to sign in.

If I’m needed to start early, I pay for a taxi to collect me, so I get to my destination in good time. If it’s a late booking, again I take a taxi to drop me from the high street, around 11pm, to my home address.

The taxi firm I use now give me a £3.00 reduction off my fee; such is the frequency of me using these cabs!

I also have to send my clothes to be dry-cleaned as I can’t iron my clothing anymore. Again that’s the way it is for me in the here and now and for the majority of us who are disabled.

I’m more than aware of the need to tighten the public purse strings and have experienced this from all political parties. The closure of six libraries in the London Borough of Brent by the Labour-run council still aggravates me, for reasons I’ve stated before, in earlier notes.

But two wrongs will NEVER make a right. We disabled people shouldn’t be made the vulnerable scapegoats for this country’s financial problems, yet that what seems to be the case.

That’s why Mr George Osborne received the reception at the Paralympics only deserved of an unwanted rodent.

I still remember what it was like for me in the early days of my disability.

I stayed indoors all day as I was frightened of the outside world. I and other disabled people know those days are likely to return under the reform plans of the DLA.

Looking and hearing the hostility of the crowd speaks for itself.

It was the British disabled performers and their families on that day making it clear to George Osborne, David Cameron, Nick Clegg and everyone in the current coalition that this reform isn’t wanted by the very people it’s suppose to benefit: the disabled people of the United Kingdom.

PITCHING UP A TENT/BUILDING AND CHARGING AN ENTRANCE FEE SHOULD REMAIN WITH RIPLEY'S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!

To see more details about why so many of us are unhappy at the proposed changes, click here.


Light and Peace

Andria

P.S to see more of my work, click here.

Rihanna is right to forgive Chris Brown

I usually don’t write about celebrities on this blog but I felt compelled to make an exception.


This is after the flack Ms Robyn Rihanna Fenty is receiving over her public declaration of forgiveness towards fellow celebrity Chris Brown, who attacked her in February 2009.

I have to ask, do you want to be forgiven for any mistakes you’ve made? That includes the ones you’ve managed to hide from others.

If the answer is yes, then you too have to forgive.

The majority of us know that living by an eye for an eye rules do nothing but keep the pain alive.

The dark days of what used to happen in Northern Ireland, during the years of The Troubles, speak for itself.

That too was about retaliation and look at what has since been achieved, now The Troubles are over, thanks to the ceasefire in 1996 and 1998.

It all comes down to the same thing: revenge, that’s what it seems those who attack Rihanna want her to seek against Chris Brown at every opportunity.

But this negative emotion never fails to consume and destroy the person who carries such luggage.

I too have let down people. I have also been let down by others, so I have the unenviable task of being able to see both sides of the argument.

I choose to forgive because I accept we’re human and makes mistakes – I know I have.

I’m also prepared to say publically, two wrongs will never make a right.

Having a go at Rihanna for forgiving Mr Brown only shows her to be a stronger woman than those who clearly want her to do the opposite.

It’s not only the New Testament that’s talking sense on this, it’s Mr George Foreman, a man whose now noted as the man behind the Lean Mean Grilling Machine.

He was also a boxing two-time heavyweight world champion.

As he stated in one of his books, he’s won many matches during his time but the match many remember him for was the one he lost; the Rumble in the Jungle against Muhamed Ali.

After losing that match, in October 1974, a lesser man would of lived a lifetime of bitterness and hatred.

Instead, he went on to be the great success he’s today.

It was when I read about how he overcame this humiliating defeat - he was the one expected to win - and dealt with other bodyblows that came his way.

This included being double-crossed by various so-called friends and business associates. I learned from him, the only way to deal with such anger is to let go by forgiving the people who have caused the misery.

Forgiveness isn’t excusing the wrong or forgetting it but it’s the only way to put the pain, misery and heartache behind you.

It also allows you to have a positive outlook on life.

That alone is attractive and will ensure you will enjoy the rest of your life, instead of beliving life is unfair on you – thinking like that will condem you to a life unfulfilled.

Rather than hear me drone on abut forgiveness and why this is the best thing, please purchase a copy of this book by George Foreman, called Going The Extra Smile, who explains it better than me.

I can assure you, once you’ve read this amazing book, you’ll realise why Rihanna is right to forgive and you’ll realise why you should too.

To find out more about this book by the brillliant Mr Foreman, click here.

Light and Peace

Andria

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PS don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

It’s not long now!

In a few weeks, the greatest football league on earth, the English and Welsh Premier league, will begin.

Yes, the 21st Premier league kicks off this month and it could prove to be its best.

Just think, it was back in 1992 when Brian Deane scored the first goal in the in the newly formed Premier league – for Sheffield United in a 2-1 victory against Manchester United.

Believe it or not, it was a French attacking midfielder, with Spanish ancestry, who changed the way we see race and racism in football.

The man in question was Eric Cantona, who scored the first hat-trick in a 5-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road – not for Manchester United but Leeds United.

How much has changed, as out of all the football clubs I’ve just mentioned, it’s only Man U who still remain in this league.

Back then, foreign players were a rarity as it was Italy’s Serie A who monopolised football’s greatest talents.

That’s no longer true as England is doing the business.

That’s why Chelsea’s owner is from Russia and another football club is owned by the American Glazer brothers, despite many Manchester United supporters wanting them to go!

Many in this country will insist the British style of football has been undermined by the sheer volume of foreign players over here.

But it’s likely those same fans will probably admit seeing the likes of Gianfranco Zola, Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Peter Schmeichel over here, playing the beautiful game has illuminated English football.

It’s also important to note not all foreign players come here with massive fees and big reputations.

Christiano Ronaldo was only known in football circles when this gawky 19 year-old came to join Manchester United for a fee of £12.24 million. Liverpool’s then manager, Gérard Houllier, had the opportunity before Sir Alex of having him but felt Christiano was too young to come to our shores.

One of the reasons it must have hurt Roman Ibramovich to let go of manager Andre Villa-Boas was due to the £13.2 million compensation they paid Portuguese team Porto for his short-lived services.

Now Spurs have him, they should be worried as its clear their London neighbours are saying: ‘hello boys, not only are we here to stay in top-flight football and we’re going to remain playing in Europe too.’

That is the only reason I can conclude in getting rid of popular manager Mr Harry Redknapp; he was able to turn Tottenham Hotspur around from regulation when he took over in October 2008 but an early exist from the Champions League last year showed his one weakness: strategy.

A Premier league manager needs to have this as well as be a good motivator.

So all the best to the new manager of Spurs as I’m sure he realises he’s got big shoes to fill - as soon as anything goes wrong, the Spurs faithful will be screaming for the return of Mr Redknap - that’s just the way it is.

Unlike 1992, football in the here and now is big business – just look at how quick another American, in the shape of a company, ESPN have joined the party, immediately after the collapse of Sentana Sports.

My sneaky fancy came true last season, which is why some of my mates felt I was mad not to put money – unlike the rest of them, who did and promptly lost it – on the Red Devils winning the Premier league.

I always felt the if Manchester City establish a potent strike force which they did with Mario Balotelli and Carlos Tévez and if their manager, Roberto Mancini, discovered more attacking ambition at key moments in games – as they displayed in their home demolition of Chelsea in March, when Chelsea’s Fernando Torres failed to score, despite having an open goal - they would and did, become the noisy neighbours from Eastlands who won the title since 1968.

The warnings about Man City’s emergence were there when they got Tevéz in July 2009.

So be warned Chelsea over Spurs getting AVB!

So who do I think will win the league in 2012-13 – tune in for that one later!

Light and Love

Andria

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PS, don’t hesitate to view my other site by clicking here.

BROTHERS IN ARMS

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The views, opinions and belifs I express are mine and not in league of Chelsea FC or of any football club, either within the UK or overseas.

Here’s what I feel to be a great picture of what Chelsea FC really stand for. The man in the centre of this picture is Frank Lampard, being embraced by Brazil’s Ramires (Santos do Nascimento) and Spain’s Fernando Torres.

This happened after Ramires scored his second goal in the UEFA Champions League semi final, second leg match between FC Barcelona and Chelsea FC at Camp Nou.

It was on April 24, this year, in Barcelona, Spain.

The right to play logo on Mr Lampard’s shirt is about encouraging youngsters to play, rather than bear arms and be child soilders.

To find out more about them and what their UK branch is up to, which includes looking at the power of sport and why every child has a right to access this, click here. 

Raimires is a midfielder who can play in the centre or the right of midfield.

Lampard is an attacking midfielder. He is considered to be one of the best English footballers of his time.

Mr Lampard is also widely regarded to be one of the best midfield players of his generation.

Fernando Torres is a striker, who can play with another striker or by himself and is blessed with expert technique.

He summed up the match that evening by stating the best team doesn’t always win.

The man on the left of this picture, showing clear relief and happiness at realising his team is going through to the final, is Ashley Cole.

He is of mixed Black Carribean and White English parentage.

Primary a left back, he is considered to one of the best defenders of his generation.

When looking at this picture, note that all these men, of different nationalities/races, played as one entity and expressed great joy as one team, in the goal scored, again by Ramires.

It was an earlier away goal, by Didlier Drogba, from the Ivory Coast, that meant Chelsea went off to the final.

The away goal rule means the team that has scored more goals overall wins so the full (aggregate) score was 2-3 to Chelsea.

As for their captain, John Terry, he was given a red card (disqualified from playing) eight minutes before half time, for a senseless tackle.

It also meant he was banned from playing the next match.

Credit where credit is due, as he appologised for his actions on that day, in various Chelsea FC booklets, which is the least he could do.

The reason I put this picture up is this: 

Chelsea FC and sport in the UK can bring people of different races, backgrounds and nationalities together and express joy at what men and women, when they put their minds together, can achieve.

The three men together shows unity and strength. Ashley Cole, although he’s out of focus, his relief and happiness is evident.

This is why I call this picture BROTHERS IN ARMS, which does make me think of the excellent, timeless song by Dire Straights.

This picture was taken by Chelsea FC's official photographer, Darren Walsh.

There’s a lot more I can say about this match but I think we all would prefer to see the video of the song I’m talking about, by clicking here.

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I have to say this: GIVE DANNY BOYLE A KNIGHTHOOD!

After the spectacular opening of the Olympics in London, I for one would dearly like to see him receive such an honour.

Mr Boyle, who won an Oscar for directing the 2009 smash hit Slumdog Millionaire, even made Her Majesty a bond girl – don’t we women secretly wish for that one moment in time - I certainly do!

There are so many takes of this event on youtube, I’m sure that if you want to watch this wonderful event again, just go onto that particular site.

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If you haven’t seen this picture of the British Ladies volleyball tean, clich here!

They’re sure to perk up anyone’s day, regardless of your sex or preference.

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Don’t hesitate to check out other work I’ve done by clicking here.

Light, Peace and hair grease

Andria

X

He ain’t heavy!

He’s my brother, so on we go.

His welfare is my concern…

Yes this is Jeffrey Greaves, who’s done us (me and our family) proud by holding the wonderful Olympic torch at his place of work – I don’t think he’ll be happy if I disclose where and when he held it, so I won’t say!

But I’m very proud of him – the Olympics, I believe, is a true and ultimate test of body and mind in union with each other, so here’s to you Jeffrey – I’m pleased you caught this moment on camera.

Enjoy!

*******

Although a good amount of time has gone by, I’m very proud of both boxers David Haye and David Chisora.

The way they behaved after the Haymaker’s triumph, shows what boxers can do, which is finally letting people know boxers can be role models, a remark I wouldn’t of made until this match, held on Saturday July 14th.

Anyway, here’s the pic below of my bro Jeffrey below.

Light and peace

Andria

X

PS, to see some of my work, click here.

What did you expect?

Multimillionaire footballer, England and Chelsea football captain, John Terry is now sunning himself in south Portugal.

As everyone knows, he's been cleared of a racially aggravated Public Order offence against the Queens Park Rangers star Anton Ferdinand, last week at Westminster Magistrates Court.

Under no circumstances can it be deemed as acceptable, to use the words, “f****** black c***” or to call another footballer, a “f****** k***head” regardless of their race.

All stewards at various football clubs, who don’t get even a third of the salary the players at these football clubs get - whether it be Premier or Third division - have worked long and hard to follow the law and changes in society, to deal with both racism and other offensive language.

For instance, if anybody was to now throw bananas on the pitch, or make monkey chants when a black or mixed-race player gets the ball, they will be removed from the premises.

The police will also be notified as who he - or she - is, regardless of their age, as when a person enters a football club's territory, they also agree to obey to that club's rules and regulations.

Nevertheless two wrongs don’t make a right – whatever the situation, it is wrong for anyone else who’s not directly involved to make judgments about Mr Terry’s affair with his former team-mate’s ex-girlfriend.

Take a leaf out of the newspaper that broke this story in the first place.

When The Sun managed to prevent Mr Terry from using the European Union Human Rights Act and was victorious in printing his name and further details of the affair, it was this newspaper’s legal team who gave their views and opinions on the judge ruling in their favour.

Even now, I remember Mr ­Justice Tugendhat stating in the High Court, two years ago in January:

"The law is here to protect people, not sponsorship deals.”

Both Anton Ferdinand and John Terry met later that same day in the Chelsea changing room at Loftus Road (QPR’s home turf) and shook hands, claiming what had happened earlier was ‘handbags’ and ‘on-pitch banter’.

But what happened afterwards showed just how much society has changed as those on-pitch 35 seconds of madness was clearly acted on by an off-duty police officer (was he a QPR fan?) who did report it to the relevant authorities.

It’s not surprising Mr Terry isn’t out of the woods yet, as the chief magistrate, Mr Howard Riddle stated: “Mr Terry’s explanation is unlikely…it is not the most obvious response…I found Anton Ferdinand a believable witness on the central issue…Ashley Cole’s evidence was far from compelling.”

Don’t forget, Mr Terry now faces another charge, on the same issue, by the Football Association (FA).

Mr Riddle, the chief magistrate originally dealing with the case, stated that although the prosecution had failed to make its case against Terry beyond reasonable doubt, noted that FA tribunals have a far lower burden of proof, based on the balance of probabilities.

At the same time, I feel for Mr Ashley Cole, a man who had to decide on two important issues: to stand up for what’s right regarding his own health and safety or stand by his principles.

Don’t forget, he is the one who has to train and play alongside John Terry - a man who has immense support from fans and others at Chelsea. After the way things ended for him at Arsenal, it’s not as if Mr A Cole has the option of going back to them!

It’s ironic that the boat Mr Terry, his wife Toni and her parents are on is called Aaliyah, after the beautiful black singer (who also had Native American heritage) who tragically died on 25th August 2001.

Retired top-flight player and former Professional Footballers Association (PFA) chairman Garth Crooks summed it up the best, by saying: “For John Terry, this is only half-time. It’s not over.”

Considering Mr Terry has paid more than £250,000.00 in legal cost, perhaps it’s not a complete let off, as having to cough up such an eye-watering amount must have hurt him.

At this moment, it may seem a small price for him to pay but I assure you, Mr Terry won't be a football player forever!

To find out more about Aaliyah, click here.

To know more about the PFA, click here.


Light, Love and Peace

Andria

X

Oh yes, not forgetting, to find out some more about me, click here.

IN LOVING TRIBUTE OF MR MAYO CHARLES MARRIOTT, BSC (HONS)

I’m very saddened to hear of his death today.

I was informed by Ms Jyoti Patel, one of the two welfare rights workers at the Brent Association of Disabled People (BADP) of his sad passing.

He was a good man who despite being left confined to a wheelchair with breathing apparatus - he had muscular dystrophy - he loved life and held regular workshops on positive thinking.

He was the London Borough of Brent’s representative regarding multiple sclerosis (MS).

When I had my first noted attack of demyelinating disease and realised this was going to lead to MS, I have to admit I panicked and simply couldn’t understand why.

But when I attended his last workshop, aimed at people who had muscular dystrophy and MS, held on a Sunday at the Willesden Centre for Health and Care, I realised the power of positive thinking.

It was then I also realised that remaining in a self-imposed exile in my home wasn’t helping anyone, especially me, myself and I.

It was then that, despite the nasty remarks and comments my family and I had received over the years, from neighbours, children and other adults who should of known better; I was ready to come of my parents’ home and seize life again, as I did before.

This picture below of Mayo; his smile isn’t just for the camera.

He really had a fixed smile on his face, every time he came to work at the BADP.

I assure you Mayo, everyone at the BADP misses you and hopes through us, your wonderful nectarine drops of and about life goes on.

So here’s to you Mayo, still wishing you the very best, now that your spirit is taking you to another place.

Love, light and peace

Andria

For more information about muscular dystrophy, click here.

PS, don’t hesitate to see some of my work by clicking here.

THIS IS DISGRACEFUL.

Like the Football Association in this country, I am shocked and appalled at the racist remarks said by some so-called fans of English Football.

Both Ashley Cole and Ashley Young must be as devastated as me when England crashed out of Euro 2012.

The one thing all three of us share is to be proud to call ourselves English and to have a passport saying we are members of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The FA is right to attack the racist remarks by these so-called fans, which is being displayed on Twitter.

Gone are the days when black footballers have to put up with bananas being thrown on the pitch when playing, thanks to diligent stewards, cameras and CRB safety officials who will spot such despicable people at English football matches.

But whether we want to admit it or not, this bad behaviour will only stop when we accept it is our responsibility to put our foot down and make it clear we will not associate ourselves with people who behave like this.

It’s unpatriotic, idiotic, crude and downright wrong to attack the Ashleys like this, especially since the tournament has moved on to the next stage – congratulations to Italy for getting through to the semi-finals as they were the better team.

We know England have never been good at penalties. There is Gareth Southgate, a man whose penalty was saved against Germany during the Euro 96, yet he is clearly doing well for himself.

There wasn’t any racist remarks said against him, only women willing to give their shoulder for him to cry on and no doubt more than that!

For anyone else who is foolish enough to believe what has been said against Mr Cole and Mr Young was harmless banter, here’s what sections 17, 18 and 19 of the UK's Public Order Act 1996 has to say about this:



Section 17. Meaning of racial hatred.

In this Part racial hatred means hatred against a group of persons defined by reference to colour, race, nationality (including citizenship) or ethnic or national origins.

This explains acts intended or likely to stir up racial hatred


Section 18. Use of words or behaviour or display of written material.

(1 ) A person who uses threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour, or displays any written material which is threatening, abusive or insulting, is guilty of an offence if—

(a) he intends thereby to stir up racial hatred, or

(b) having regard to all the circumstances racial hatred is likely to be stirred up thereby.

(2) An offence under this section may be committed in a public or a private place, except that no offence is committed where the words or behaviour are used, or the written material is displayed, by a person inside a dwelling and are not heard or seen except by other persons in that or another dwelling.

(3) A constable may arrest without warrant anyone he reasonably suspects is committing an offence under this section.

(4) In proceedings for an offence under this section it is a defence for the accused to prove that he was inside a dwelling and had no reason to believe that the words or behaviour used, or the written material displayed, would be heard or seen by a person outside that or any other dwelling.


Section 19. Publishing or distributing written material.

(1) A person who publishes or distributes written material which is threatening, abusive or insulting is guilty of an offence if—

(a) he intends thereby to stir up racial hatred, or

(b) having regard to all the circumstances racial hatred is likely to be stirred up thereby.



Don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

Light, Peace and Hairgrease (otherwise my hair would fall out, even when wearing extensions).

Andria

X.

So England is out!

Yes, the England Euro 2012 squad got shown the door on Sunday, 24th June, regarding this tournament.



The Italian press are tearing into this team’s defence.

But as I’ve learned in life, you must also be able to deal with failures in order to appreciate what success is.

Nevertheless, credit where it’s due.

Congratulations to Italy in being able to progress to the next stage of Euro 2012.

I’m keeping this brief, as I’m off to drown my sorrows with a tub of Häagen-Dazs Cookies and Cream.

Andria

X

WELCOME TO THE MS CLUB JACK OSBOURNE.

That’s one of the best things I can say to you, regarding this illness.

Your eating habits will have to change as you will find certain foods only flare up your condition.

In my case, it’s the humble tomato - tomatoes as it’s stated in the USA.

You will also have to know where the toilet is, wherever you go.

You will also be feeling annoyed that this illness has affected you.

This, I certainly know from my own experience.

You will also wonder, why now?

After living such an adventurous life, you may feel cheated, that it was wrong, considering all the people on this Earth - especially since there are so many unpleasant people out there - it was decided you should have this illness.

I was looking forward to having an ordinary life, which included getting married, having kids and getting a mortgage when I got this illness.

Needless to say, all my previous plans went straight out of the window!

I still remember the anger and bitterness I had when, at the Wembley Job Centre Plus, in north-west London, I screamed down the phone to a true gentleman, who was at the Belfast Benefit Delivery Centre, WHY ME?

He calmly replied: “you’ve got to deal with the cards life has sent you.”

He was right. Considering I called myself Miss Independent, I couldn’t see myself not being able to cook my own meals or being limited in what I can physically do.

I couldn’t think of a day when I couldn’t jog but now I can’t.

I still have a weakness for milk chocolate but because my body no longer allows me to join in other aerobics classes – apart from swimming - I now limit myself to one bar a week.

My friends, who have MS and are in a wheelchair, won’t even touch it.

It’s also tempting to get bitter, as I lost my job thanks to this illness - I can no longer touch type.

I also can’t cook my own meals and have to rely on take-aways or ready-made meals for one person, which I know are not healthy all the time but that’s the way it is for me.

But once you accept your condition, you will then see other opportunities in life and be thankful.

His mum, Sharon Osbourne, got it spot on when she talked about the importance of having a positive outlook in life, regarding multiple sclerosis.

There is no point in worrying over things you simply cannot change.

Considering the things his dad, Ozzy Osbourne has done with his past, it's tempting to think that the medics who diagnosed Jack's condition, got it wrong but that's simply not the case with MS.

So here’s wishing you dignity, happiness and the very best of everything in life, Mr Jack Osbourne.

Light and Peace

Andria.

X


PS don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

I like this!

I was touched by what Alex O-C had to say about his role in the England football team.

It’s my belief that if you employ the right people, you can get a brilliant result.

Likewise, if you employ the wrong people, you will run dry.

This interview really says it the best.

Check it out by clicking here.

£££££££

I have to admit, like many people in the UK I was upset Mr Rio Ferdinand (Manchester Utd FC) wasn’t included in the England football squad.

Regardless as to who said what, I believe both Rio (being a former England captain) and the Chelsea FC and England skipper John Terry are men enough to call a truce on any grievances between them over Mr Ferdinand’s brother Anton (Queens Park Rangers FC) and realise what’s important here is national pride and achievement.

£££££££

Nevertheless, I was happy watching England play against France two days ago.

The result could have been better – let’s face it the French player Nasri, who scored and got the equaliser, got this result due to the sloppy England defence.

But we didn’t get beaten and I’m happy with the 1-1 result.

£££££££

Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner!

That I love London town!

In order to avoid any legal action regarding copyright law, I’m happy to say those words are from the musical My Fair Lady. Well city, as the rest of us know London to be.

I’m so proud to see West Ham FC get straight back into the Premier league.

We all know the longer you stay out, the harder it is to get back in this league.

Football clubs like Leeds and Millwall (who were regulated out of top flight football when the Premier league was started in 1991) are clear examples of this.

So when I saw my local club QPR avoiding the drop, I was tickled with happiness!

Looking at the success of Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea winning the Champions League, all of this makes me proud that I live in a city that’s home to so much talent.

Go London!

Andria.

PS, don’t hesitate to check out my over site, by clicking here.

Life-changing power - it's free!

After the elation and joy I had in finally being declared solvent on 02 March this year. I would like to say how sorry I am for attacking others for upsetting me over the years. I also acknowledge that I too have hurt good people in my past.

I’d like to say how sorry I am for losing my cool and not seeing the pain I’ve caused to others, especially when I’ve been caught up in my own anger, which is when I didn’t notice the hurt others were experiencing because of me.

I won’t try and be clever and admit partial responsibility or make stupid excuses by saying others must take some of the blame for my actions.

I’m fully responsible for my actions and that is that.

I’ve been in situations when I was just about to eat a lovely cooked meal when, out of nowhere, a person who’s wronged me pops into my mind.

Just like that, the dinner is ruined before I’ve even started to eat.

That’s how I felt about a certain bank we all see on the high street, who falsely stated I had thousands of pounds stashed away with them in order to get the Debit Relief order (DRO) I was anointed with overturned.

Even after the date of the original DRO had surpassed, which meant they couldn’t bother me on payments included in the DRO (theirs was one of them) this high street bank was still hounding me for money I clearly didn’t have.

So far as this bank was concerned, they ignored the Payment Protection Insurance - PPI - attached to my loan, (for which I had paid extra money for) which was meant to cover me if an illness like Multiple Sclerosis should happen to me, which I now have, for reasons I cannot explain.

I’m big enough to come out and admit when I’ve made a mistake and know that holding onto anger is counter- productive for anyone who wants to live a happy life.

I enjoyed living in a luxury apartment when I called myself (proudly) Miss Independent, with a nice red car to boot.

Now I live with my parents and I have a Freedom Pass to get from A to Z.

When I told my previous landlord about my health, I asked if adaptations could be made to the unit I lived in, which they wouldn’t be paying for.

Within days of making this request, I was given notice to leave the premises immediately.

It felt like a swift kick had been made to my stomach but I’ve since realised this has happened to many who become disabled and once lived in private accommodation.

A few months ago, I wanted to join a private health club which had a heated swimming pool but got the excuses of having to get my doctor to vouch for me being able to swim, which she can’t as she has never been able to see me in water.

Again I had so much anger in me over receiving such treatment, knowing that if I was an able bodied person, this wouldn’t be an issue.

Chances are if, like me, such negative thoughts have crept into your mind, it’s happened to you more than once; when you’re going to bed, having a shower, etc. When this occurs, let’s face it, smiling or admitting to your mistakes is the least thing you want to do.

I’ve decided, there is only two solutions to such a dilemma; forgiveness and being woman enough to admit to my mistakes as without these two qualities, I can assure you, life will be full of bitterness, hatred and misery and that’s coming from experience!

That’s why I’m also saying sorry for all the hurt and pain I’ve caused over the years and accept there was no justification for my actions, no matter what.

The other painful reality, as mentioned earlier, that was causing the most hurt, was the misery I was putting myself through by rehashing such issues I couldn’t get over.

I’d let certain people torture me again and again and again over things I simply couldn’t change.

For years I couldn’t feel any pleasure or peace and believed the only way out of this misery is to make the people who have wronged me feel similar pain and embarrassment.

That’s the importance of forgiveness, as it was only when I did this that all the bitterness and rage flew out of me. I also saw the reasons why those people had done what they did to me and still feel compassion for them.

I haven’t contacted everyone I’ve hurt or who has hurt me – that’s my choice.

If I do my part, that’s okay, the rest is up to others to decide whether to forgive me or not.

I can hear some of you say, “You have no idea what he or she did to me” but the pain you’re carrying is the reason you’ve got to forgive and acknowledge your own mistakes in life.

You’re not saying what’s happened is right but you’re letting go of the hurt, pain and misery.

You’re also telling yourself it’s time to move on.

Sometimes, you need that second, third or fourth chance to move on and I truly hope I’ve been able to do this, for my own piece of mind.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here! -

I'm on benefits but I'm no scrounger

Not everyone on benefits is a scrounger.

Of course, some abuse the system but there are investigators in the DWP who are catching them.

I have had enough. I am not a scrounger and this is why.

I am in the unenviable position of claiming Disability Living Allowance and Employment Support Allowance because I have Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

There are more than 300 forms of this long-term illness. There is no reason why a person gets MS.

Unfortunately there is no cure.

My body can’t fight off the cold weather any more, which is why rooms I enter in, including cars, have got to be well heated, even in the summer.

The pain in my body is constant. I cannot lift my niece, whose now just under seven years of age.

I cannot jog anymore, which is why I treasure my Race For Life t-shirt which I earned by participating in the one at Wembley Stadium in 2008.

This is also why I value my medal for running in Regent’s Park the year before, for Cancer Research.

When holding a drink in my hand, it’s got to have a lid on top or it must be half full – my sense of balance and co-ordination has gone awry.

I also have to use a walking stick to get by.

The only advantage I now have is in knowing my neighbours no longer tell my parents I’m drunk when they see me walking, which I still do for exercise.

All of these things people take for granted and I realise there must be thousands of people worse off than me.

When I found myself in the position where I had to claim because of MS, I was just as shocked as anyone else and now I’m disgusted at how I’m treated as a benefit claimant.

Try going for a job interview with my condition – I still believe nobody owes anyone a duty to give them a job.

I’ve had more than my fair share of people at first showing interest in me working for them then realising they are ignoring my calls.

Over the phone or by e-mail, I get one of two reactions without fail: “How much disruption is the MS going to cause if you get the job?”

Or the straight-forward one when I’m told: ”You need to be realistic, you’re an insurance liability.”

No matter what you are claiming or why, one is deemed and treated as a scrounging fraud until you prove otherwise.

I am not just talking about the Department for Work and Pensions but also the people I meet everywhere I go, every day.

The look of disgust as you meet someone new and get asked: "What do you do for a living?"

I see the expression on their face when I say I’m not working.

One former colleague, now working at a specialist branch of Reed employment, even said to me: “I’m surprised to see you here as I knew how much you like work".

Working for a living is food for my soul and I felt it justified my existence on this planet.

The same person also remembers I worked three days and nights straight and I did this more than once, as I was proud my body and mind allowed me to do this, so when MS came to me, I just couldn’t understand why.

As a result, I even hated God and wanted nothing to do with the man -yes he had to be one as no woman would do this to me.

I'm glad to say I no longer have this negative feeling and praise Him and his son for the blessings in each and every day.

Until I met up with the members of the Brent Association of Disabled people, who help people who are disabled to have a dignified life, I felt like a freak of nature.

Then when toying around on the Internet, I found out about The Shane Project, which focuses on ethnic people with MS, which finally eased my anger as I was still saying in my head, "why me?".

As far as I was concerned, God had no right in giving me this illness. I was so pleased at being a hard-working member of society.

Thankfully, meeting with members of this group, which introduced me to other people who are Afro-Caribbean with MS, changed this negative feeling.

On average, gas and electric costs £30-£40 a week depending on the season – yes the bills do still come in and they are higher for me as I have to be in an area with heat, as I mentioned earlier - and the reasons why.

Do I have any luxuries? Yes, I have a flat screen TV, bought by my mum a few years ago. Do we have a games console? The answer is no.

What little I have is bought and paid for - as once I've eaten and paid the bills there is never anything left.

Where I live, there is no dog racing track for me to spend my benefit money – Walthamstow in the east of London (I live in the north-west) was closed many years ago.

My budget is so tight that if an emergency crops up, like me being rushed to hospital because I’m passing out again, I have to take an ambulance as there is no other way to get me home from hospital.

I’ve collapsed down the stairs, which is why Brent Rehabilitation Services have installed a stairs banner in my parents home, who I now live with.

This is because I was thrown out of my rented flat when I asked for my landlord's permission to install a similar device - they will deny this, of course but many who used to rent privately when they were able-bodied will tell you a similar story.

When I go food shopping, it is worked out to the absolute penny. There can be no deviation as there is nothing to play with.

Before MS, I used to drive, which included paying road tax, car insurance costs, fuel prices and all the other benefits of having my own transportation – now I have to pay for a cab.

I haven’t been on holiday or even a weekend away for years, whereas I did this at least twice a year when I worked.

Living on benefits is degrading, depressing and there is no room for any luxury of any kind - ever. I wouldn't have had a Christmas dinner last year if it wasn't for my parents.

I spend my spare time helping people who also need help, at the Brent Association of Disabled People. I’ve also helped at the Tokynton church branch of Cricklewood Homeless Concern. I don’t go to the theatre anymore.

Going to the local gym isn’t plain sailing. Unless I arrive when the cleaner is on duty, the floor at the women's changing room at Bridge Park Community Centre is wet and dangerous, which also means my walking stick is ineffective.

I’ve complained about the water and the need for staff to check the changing rooms but nothing gets done.

Even the disabled toilet is used by people wanting to wash out hair dye.

I'm not lazy, so I cannot keep quiet when I read the nonsense being published about benefit claimants.

Yes there are fraudsters out there, I know this first hand as I once worked as an audio typist for a company that has a contract with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) which interviewed benefits cheats and sometimes I had to transcribe the fourth tape on the same person before they admitted there wrongdoing.

So to all those who think I'm a lazy, talentless, fraudulent scrounger, I'll say this. You’ve got to deal with the cards life has sent you.

I didn’t and wouldn’t choose to be disabled – I liked being an active person who seized the day and had full optimum health.

I avoided alcohol and spicy foods. The gym was my second home.

The next time you meet someone who is on Disability Living Allowance, or claiming benefits in some other way, ask yourself if you really are picking on them because they are a nice, easy target.

This isn't living or a lifestyle choice, it is surviving.

Andria

PS, since I do want to work - I assure you I don't bite, I just have MS - please don’t hesitate to view my other site by clicking here.