Brother in Massachusetts Attacks Three Sisters, Beheads One

A 23-year-old Haitian-American man in Milton, Massachusetts was shot dead after attacking his three younger sisters on March 28, 2009. After beheading his 5-year-old sister, -in the presence of a police officer- Kerby Revelus chased his wounded 9-year-old sister into a room and attacked her as his 17-year-old sister lay dead on the floor. Reports indicate Mr. Revelus had a tendency to react violently, as police had been called to the house in the past. This horrific event occurred one day after the family celebrated Bianca's fifth birthday.

Tragic events like these underscore the importance of minorities taking advantage of mental health services. Too often, we write off or normalize adverse behaviors by making passive remarks: "Oh, that's just the way Uncle So-and-So is," "Cousin Sue is a little touched," or "Only crazy people go to see the psychiatrist." We have to acknowledged that we are as susceptible to mental breakdowns as our Caucasian counterparts. Seeking help to cope with a mental illness or transient emotional distress does not make a person crazy. In my opinion, a crazy person does not work toward ameliorating existing stressors or take advantage of available resources. Be well and keep the Revelus family in your thoughts, meditations, and prayers.

Beheading in Milton, Massachusetts

Sara Smile

When I was a little boy, probably about 10 or 11, I developed a serious crush on the men of Hall and Oates. I don't know what it was about Daryl Hall and John Oates. Even at that young age, I found them very attractive. In my little romantic dreams, they always appeared together; I couldn't have one without the other. Anywho, of all the great songs they made, my favorite one is "Sara Smile," which I always thought was entitled "Sarah's Smile." Enjoy!

"Sara Smile," by Hall and Oates

I love your smile

Shanice (pronounced SHAH neese) did her thing on this one. She even had the nerve to bust into a rap! I love the old-school choreography. While she was a beautiful young lady back then, y'all know I spent most of my time fantasizing about the photographer. Since those days, Shanice has settled down with Flex Alexander and had a few kids (I think?). This is definitely one of the best songs she ever recorded. Enjoy and have a good weekend!

"I Love Your Smile," by Shanice

When friends go missing

I "met" my boy T in 2003. I believe we connected through one of the AOL gay chat rooms. Given that I had not met any quality males at that time, it was cool to have a "friend" to talk to periodically. He was about five years older than me, but he never behaved in a paternalistic manner. What made T special was that he was educated, insightful, and encouraging. I absolutely loved his Caribbean accent; he was from the island of Anguilla. The fact that he lived in Massachusetts didn't diminish the quality of our friendship at all. On days when I felt hopeless, helpless, and every other emotion that characterizes the depression I was experiencing, he'd gently remind me that I was a person worthy of experiencing love. Over the years, we developed a wonderful friendship. It was a special occasion when we finally met in May of 2007.

T flew to Baton Rouge and helped me celebrate my graduation from LSU. I remember picking him up from the airport. Finally being able to put a face to that professor-like voice. T was very comfortable with himself. He, unlike me at that time, did not allow his sexuality to overshadow more important areas of his life. He simply LIVED. When we went to Chelsea's to listen to a brass band, he had the nerve to talk to the guy (the trumpeter) I couldn't keep my eyes off. At the gay club -Splash- he talked to guys who I'd only admired for a far. T had swagger that I'd never seen in a gay man. Interestingly, he had a "date" arranged by the time he stepped foot in the state. Meanwhile, I'd only met one guy in the two years I was in Louisiana.

T wasn't able to stay for the entire duration of the ceremony. I remember him waving to me as he exited the auditorium. The guy who he'd met had agreed to drive him to the airport. He called later that evening and let me know he'd made it home. When I moved back to Georgia and had to deal with the unexpected death of my beloved step-father, he was a constant source of encouragement. We'd usually talk at least once a month. Even though he traveled extensively, especially during the summer months, he'd always call me when he returned. When he was visiting family, I knew he'd be unavailable. How I looked forward to hearing about the events that had transpired.

About a month ago, I tried calling T. Accustomed to hearing his voicemail message, I was shocked when I heard an automated message stating that the subscriber was unavailable. Day after day, I called and got the same message. Last week, the message said the call could not be completed as dialed. I've googled him and thought about contacting the school he was attending. As T is a very responsible man, I'm concerned that something terrible may have happened. I don't know what to do. I miss my friend. For now, all I can do is periodically look at the graduation gifts he bought me: an engraved clock which I've never used, a card that's still on my dresser, a book of inspirational verses, and a black shirt that has a naughty message written on it ("Overworked and Underfucked!").

I really hope he's still alive. However, in the event that we never communicate, I can honestly say that my life has been enriched because of his patience, guidance, and love. I love you, T.

P.S. I couldn't find the video I wanted, so y'all will have to "settle" for this one. While T and I were not in a relationship, the song's title is appropriate.

"I Miss You," by Klymaxx

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Has this ever happened to you?

It was a cold day in late November. The year was 2007. Having enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday with my family, I drove downtown (ATL) and met with a representative of the EEOC. At that time, I was having employment issues that needed to be addressed federally. After the meeting, I was walking up Alabama Street -near the Five Points MARTA station- when I saw a man approaching me. So, I'm thinking "I hope he doesn't ask me for any money. It's cold and I want to get home." As luck would have it, he respectfully approached me and said "Sir, could you spare a few dollars. I'm HIV positive and I don't have anything to eat." While I may have a heart of gold, I rarely give anyone money; I'm inclined to purchase food. So, I agreed to purchase him some food from the nearby McDonalds. Sitting at a table, he watched as I approached the counter and ordered two hashbrowns. When I turned around, he was gone. Now, if I was hungry and someone agreed to buy me some food, I would not have let the buyee out of my sight. Thinking he had gone to the bathroom, I waited outside for about five minutes. That wind was kicking my ass. I stood right by the entrance and hoped he'd show up. He never did. I walked to my car, drove home, and fed my sister. What was up with that?

Sweetheart...we could share a storybook romance!

Ok. I'm really digging in the crates this time. DJ Losojosnuevos (one of my alter egos) has found a gem. I have not been able to get this song out of my mind for over a month. Many of you may remember that Mariah Carey and JD remade the song in the 90s, proof that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Try as I might, I could not find the original video. I did my best. Enjoy

Rainy Davis, "Sweetheart"