Category Archives: –Ownership

The Exact Moment I became an American (rev.)

By Ronald Court (nee, Courtemanche)

In just two days on September 11, 2010 I will observe the exact moment I realized I was an American and not a multi-hyphenated French-Canadian-American whose grandparents came down from Quebec in search of a living-any living.

It was 11:35am on that fateful day nine years ago in 2001. I had been teaching at Champlain College but as the planes stuck the towers, classes were cancelled. I drove home, but found myself turning off toward the local flag shop. As the realization of what happened set in, that America, our country… my country, me was attacked. I heard myself declare, “I am an American.” I am not French-Canadian. I am an American … of French-Canadian descent.

Today, it makes me ponder why some Americans descended from several generations of American-born ancestors still refer to themselves as African-Americans.

Sure, there’s an obvious answer. But can you tell me who the real African-American in this picture is?

(Hint: Actress Charleze Theron (above) was born in South Africa; Will Smith in Philadelphia.)

Finding the Strength to Succeed

On Ownership

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By Ronald Court

I want to see you own land.

It’s almost Christmas Eve and instead of talking about Giving, I’m thinking about Owning. Then again, the two are inextricably linked. You can’t give away — contribute to others — what you don’t own. Booker T. knew that.

Proof of his wisdom on this point indeed on so many of his points) is everywhere. all you need do is look.

Years ago, Chicagoan Phil Donahue created the afternoon TV talk-show genre and became a star. Along came Oprah: a copy-cat. Same town, same format. Only difference: Oprah insisted on owning her show. You know how Oprah’s doing. But we haven’t heard from Phil Donahue for years.

Even a tiny idea (below) can blossom into large profits. Think about that.
Then think about lifting others up. That’s the Booker T. way.