7 Things African Americans Should Do in 2008

In 2007, I was happy to see that a group of fellow blacks led by Al Sharpton finally buried the dreaded "N" word. It was an act of solidarity showing that the community understood that this word was a detriment to the race. Finally, people recognized that a lot of the connotation and meanings behind the "N" word were negative. It was a good thing.

So what's on the agenda for 2008?

In the year 2008, I believe we still have a ways to go. Certain mainstream issues still affect us more intensely than other groups, especially whites. So what are other areas of change that the majority of blacks need to do? Here are my top seven picks.

7. Consume foods high in vitamin D. A health study conducted in 2002 showed that black women didn't consume enough vitamin D. A lack of this precious fat soluble can leave a person feeling tired and achy. It also affects the bones. Since women tend to set the trends for the family because they buy the food, it's probably true that most blacks suffer from this a deficiency of vitamin D. Go out and buy a bottle today or eat more fish, it'll help you get the energy to do all of the things you need to do in your busy life.

6. Start a business. In the bestseller "The Covenant", author Tavis Smiley urges blacks to start their own businesses. Why? A business is the one thing that can boost the economic wealth of a group or community. We've seen it done by our Asian brothers and sisters. So, it's our time now. Go to www.businesslicenses.com to obtain a license to sell and then get down to work. Even if it doesn't directly impact your own wealth, it will improve the well-being of your legacy.

5. Don't use your cell phone as you drive. Due to a string of serious accidents, many states are now considering cell phone laws that ban its use and include heavy fines. As a matter of fact, in May of 2007, Washington state was the first to enact a ban on text-messaging while driving. It'll be in force come January 2008. So if you're one of those people who feels the need to talk, text and drive, it's time to exercise self-control. Put down the phone and keep your eyes on the road.