Noblesse Oblige Award

I began reading Sojourner’s Place and immediately found a home. As I mentioned to her, “I have never been disappointed to find something written that gave me inspiration.” SjP is someone who blogs with a message; she has a voice and is willing to speak as an advocate for others. You will regularly find the face of someone missing as SjP poses the question, “Have you seen me?”

Recently, SjP was honored with the Noblesse Oblige Award. The recipient of this award is recognized for the following:

1. The Blogger manifests exemplary attitude, respecting the nuances that pervades amongst different cultures and beliefs.


2. The Blog contents inspire; strives to encourage and offers solutions.


3. There is a clear purpose at the Blog; one that fosters a better understanding on Social, Political, Economic, the Arts, Culture and Sciences and Beliefs.


4. The Blog is refreshing and creative.


5. The Blogger promotes friendship and positive thinking.

I have come to respect her tireless efforts to illuminate those areas shrouded in darkness and misinformation. Her unique style effectively strikes a chord with me. It’s obvious to me why she would be recognized for this award; she is a champion and most deserving.

She listed five other bloggers and went on to say, “I am passing the Noblesse Oblige Award to…” It is a virtual Who’s Who of bloggers, four of whom (in my opinion) adhere to the five tenants of the award. I was surprised to find my name included in this list.

Coward that I am, I told her I was undeserving of the honor; but she was having none of that! Essentially she told me (and I’m paraphrasing here), “Get your ass in gear U and follow me as I follow a purpose higher than myself.”

Now these are not her exact words mind you, but as I read her reply to me, I understood what she was saying. It’s not about me being recognized for an award or meeting criteria that validates me or this blog. But if someone, anyone gains something from reading this blog then a noble and higher purpose is served.

For that, I’m appreciative and most thankful.

The Blogger who receives this award will need to perform the following steps:

1. Create a Post with a mention and link to the person who presented the Noblesse Oblige Award. (done)


2. The Award Conditions must be displayed at the Post. (done)


3. Write a short article about what the Blog has thus far achieved – preferably citing one or more older post to support. (see below)


4. The Blogger must present the Noblesse Oblige Award in concurrence with the Award conditions. (done)


5. The Blogger must display the Award at any location at the Blog. (done)

What has Any Way I Have To achieved thus far? What was my goal/purpose when I began this blog? On October 10, 2008, I wrote:
“I've decided to forego the stereotypes of what is masculine and feminine, concepts I have held on to for so long. I don't care about those things anymore. I've chosen to write what I think, feel, and believe; those who read this blog are welcome...”

I believe what I write adheres to that stated purpose. Here are a few posts which follow that credo:

1. Do You Trust Yourself? (October 15, 2008)


2. Healing from those things that hurt us (November 2, 2008)


3. On being an American (November 7, 2008)


4. Man Down -- We are The Borg (November 15, 2008)


5. Where will technology take us? (December 28, 2008)

I am passing the Noblesse Oblige Award to:

1. Sylvia K (Sylvia From Over The Hill): A woman who exudes a positive attitude about life; encouraging and inspiring others.


2. Nordette Adams (aka Vérité Parlant at Whose shoes are these anyway?): Nordette is a woman who does not fit into any predefined, cookie cutter description. She will intelligently discuss any topic in a manner that is insightful and thought provoking.


3. Mista Jaycee (A Choice of Weapons): A writer, poet and musician with a deep Christian commitment. He is a man well versed in many areas offering intelligent insight and a fresh perspective.


4. Jenn (Jenn’s Blog): I’ve just begun reading Jenn but I am impressed with the sensitivity, love and dedication she conveys in her writing. Jenn’s daughter is Autistic but her life is far from discouraging; they are both inspirational.


5. Christine (Now What): I just began reading Christine’s blog last month and I instantly fell in love with her. Like many of the bloggers I read, she defies a one-dimensional description. She writes about anything worthy of discussion. Christine is funny, serious and is willing to ask questions others won’t. She and I are linked together now as brother and sister. Not by way of biology, but I respect and love her just the same. I could say a lot more but would rather you get to know her for yourself.