On Russia: A meeting of great importance – paramount.
I’ve been reading and listening to the news of a meeting between President Obama and President Medvedev – Obama said he trusts the Russian leader to follow through on the agreements they struck. And he refused to be drawn into a debate over who really holds the reins of power in Russia, widely believed to be Medvedev’s predecessor and mentor, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. “My understanding is, President Medvedev is the president … and Prime Minister Putin is the prime minister,” Obama simply said.
Obama, who meets with Putin on Tuesday, caused a stir in Russia before his trip by telling The Associated Press that Putin has to learn that “the old Cold War approaches to U.S.-Russian relations is outdated.” http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090706/ap_on_re_eu/obama

Our President’s comment about Prime Minister Putin may be quite a mistake. Any American citizen who has spent a considerable amount of time living in Russia, over a period of years, would know that Prime Minister Vladimir Putin still remains the most powerful leader in Russia… in the end it is he who makes the decisions.

This takes me back to Michael Jackson’s impact upon Russia dating back years ago. Michael was performing in Moscow during a time a financial hardship in Russia – there was no middle class at the time (today there may be somewhat of an emergence of this class). When Michael became aware of the situation, he made the decision to perform for free. Today there is widespread mourning for Michael and statues being erected in his honor, while in the USA, Neverland Ranch faces opposition, from those who live in the same community, to its becoming the historical landmark that it is more than entitled to and should become… Michael did all that he did for you and me and the entire world, as one of the greatest Americans and person (man) who has ever lived.

Obama is not the first Black American to run for the office of President of The United States of America. Mr. Dick Gregory and Rev. Jesse Jackson both preceded him. Nor is Obama the second coming of MLK – he is not expected to be. BUT, as Steveland Morris said so emphatically creative, where is Obama when needed like right now? I ask that Obama bring some Joy Inside My (Our) Tears, and that he does not leave me (us) asking Where Were You When I (we) Needed You (last summer). Dear President Obama, business in Russia is serious business and not to be used as an outing for the first family (political). With all due respect, leave the First Lady and the kids at home – The White House. Get it in gear and show duly respect for Michael Jackson… the Man In The Mirror who helped to get you to where you are – not you, BUT Michael Jackson.

I met both Presidents Bush (Sr. and Jr.) and former President Bill Clinton in dear Russia. Clinton interacted with the common people as well as the heads of state and celebrities – as expected and the proper way to experience and learn about Russia. But for news media, Russia is not foe to America. Russia does however remain a superpower to this day. I pray that you, President Obama, are all that I voted for – the most qualified to represent America on all fronts. If you do not acknowledge the loss of the greatest American Icon, I for one am sure that your popularity in Russia will diminish severely. I am also sure that Medvedev and Putin would cancel meetings with you if they were invited to attend Michael’s primary memorial service – again, the same that you should duly attend. BUT who am I to know this (?) only a musician. american and black.

I agree with that as well…