THE OBSERVATION BOOTH
OP / ED & PHOTO CREDITS ANDREA DIALECT
When working at the Country Club way back when, I had the opportunity to hobnob with many very interesting people. Surprisingly, many of them were those that worked alongside me as coworkers. Yet one of the most beneficial encounters during those times was when I was employed as a nanny. I had the luxury of sitting in on Bill’s company’s roundtable meetings when the crew was summoned to the house. Bill M. was such a great guy—I learned a lot from him. But one thing that he often said I have utilized throughout the years, which had been the following statement: “You are as good as your black book.”
But he assured me that even that statement came with fine print, which is: “It’s not who you know, but who knows you—and who knows ya enough to answer that call no matter what, and will willingly aid and assist whenever, doing whatever’s needed.” I’m told that’s what you call a real black book.
Ms. Jazz is one of those who don the page. One of my main go-to’s. Last night I was pondering a few things that needed doin’, and she called me—and in a wink, I had a laundry list called could-do or should-do. If that lady doesn’t know something in a wink, that natural-born sleuth sniffs it out and brings it home. Checks in all the time, making certain that I’m okay. How beautiful. The melodic sounds of loving service resonate loudly when JAZZ SPEAKS.
Visit Localtalkweekly.com to read the full story in the Entertainment section. While you’re at it, check out the archives and the enjoyment of the Fine Artistry subjects that accompany my words—like Ms. Jazz here.
Get familiar with all things Andrea Dialect. You’ll also want to come along on my Andrea Dialect Facebook Lab live session. Buried treasures turn up every morning. Come and join me live as I develop my daily “PORTAL” sessions. I’ll see you between 5–6 a.m. Set those notifications. Remember: everything I do on social is raw, homegrown, and experimental mockups. Follow my @msdialect Instagram, and let’s grow out loud together! Like, follow, and share.
ASK JAZZ
Jazimine Breaker…Since my diagnosis in 2010, I’ve been advocating for myself—even more so. But I have done it all my life. I am supposed to advocate for myself and others because naturally I am a protector, and that’s my purpose. I am a mother. I am an empath, and I am very sensitive to others’ pain. When I see others in pain, it hurts me too.
Being in need and wanting to fix the situation makes you resourceful. My instincts step in, and I want more and I want to do more. Before Google and the internet, my go-to method was networking and asking. Asking is key. I ask also if people need help. It’s important that we utilize each other.
It’s a lot going on in the world now. For me, growing up was normal. I had a mom and a dad, we went on vacation. We lived good. Now it’s so many single mothers out here and so much struggle. But as women, we are together in the problem. Together makes us stronger.
Housing is a big issue for many. I’ve been homeless a few times. You have to have a place to stay and have a roof over your head. You need routine. When you need help, ask for help. Use the resources. Go to Google. Depending upon where you’re located, 211 helps you with everything—I mean everything. They are one of the best go-to’s if you need whatever.
If you’re in Essex County, “Bridges” is really good. Legal Aid is very useful—they are working on your side. They advocate for you. There are several reentry programs out there, which are good for people transitioning back into society.
There are plenty of soup kitchens out there. “Bridges” is one of my favorites. At Bridges, you eat good. There is another that I like—it’s at a church in Newark, it’s off Elizabeth Avenue, and the chef that cooks for you is a Black woman. She is a soul food chef. You also eat good. When you’re in those kitchens, there’s a mixture of people—people with kids, homeless people, people with homes and jobs. People without. Men, women, kids, and families from all walks. You could be sitting next to a millionaire—you’ll never know.
We all need help sometimes. But if I need something, I go and get it. Because nobody’s coming for us. I believe in God. God’s got my back. And things always work out because it has to. You have to make things right for yourself. You have to find solutions. The answers are there.
You got this. One of my case managers usta say that to me all the time, and I usta say, “What do I got?” She’d say, “You got what you need.” Now I’m telling you. Because it’s true. We have a lot of challenges in this world, but we must move on. Take every day one day at a time. Make something of yourself and don’t forget to enjoy life while you’re at it. If you need it—go get it. You got this!
DID YOU KNOW….
People who help others are often called altruistic, philanthropic, or humanitarian. These terms suggest a selfless concern for the well-being of others, often involving the donation of time, resources, or efforts to improve society. Other terms that may be used include helper, assistant, or benefactor.
What types of organizations help the community?
- Charitable Organizations That Relieve Poverty and Distress.
- Cultural Organization: Museums, Government Art Programs, Library Support Organizations, and Zoological Societies.
- Veterans’ Organizations.
- Religious Organizations.
- Social and Fraternal Organizations.
DO YOU KNOW ANY OF OUR COMMUNITY ACCESS CONTRIBUTORS?
LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE
IF SO LET THEM KNOW THAT THEY’VE MADE THE CUT AND THEY ARE THE TALK OF LOCAL TALK THIS WEEK!
PASS IT ON!
