Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Forgive Them Father-Lauryn Hill

“Forgive them father, for they know not what they doooo!” I woke up singing this song this morning for some reason and I have not been able to block it out of my mind… so it was a must that I look up the lyrics. And a few that stick out to me are

Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those That trespass against us
Although them again we will Never, Never, Never Trust
Forgive them father, for they know not what they doooo

Beware the false motives of others
Be careful of those who pretend to be brothers
And you never suppose it's those who are closest to you,
They say all the right things to gain their position
Then use your kindness as their ammunition
To shoot you down in the name of ambition,

Forgive them father, for they know not what they doooo

Why every Indian wanna be the chief?
Feed a man 'til he's full and he still want beef
Give me grief, try to thief off my piece
Walk you to the increase, I must decrease?
If I treat you kindly does it mean that I'm weak?
You hear me speak and think I won't take it to the streets
I know enough cats that don't turn the other cheek
But I try to keep it civilized like Menelik

To survive is to stay alive in the face of opposition
Even when they comin' gunnin' I stand position
L's known the mission since conception
Let's free the people from deception
If you lookin' for the answers then you gotta ask the questions
Like Cain and Abel, Caesar and Brutus
Jesus and Judas, back stabbers do this

Forgive them father, for they know not what they doooo

It took me a little while to discover
Wolves in sheep coats who pretend to be lovers
Men who lack conscience will even lie to themselves
A friend once said and I found to be true
That, "Everyday people, they lie to God too
So what makes you think that they won't lie to you"

Forgive them father, for they know not what they doooo

That’s one deep song!! The lyrics are truly speaking volumes to me today.
So my voices are literally singing…”FORGIVE THEM FATHER FOR THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DOOOOOOO!” Realize and accept things and people as they are not how you want them to be, when and if things change THEN and only then should you change your perception. Leave the judging to God and focus on the way you live your life.

…Until Next time

Friday, December 14, 2012

Shooting in Connecticut

There was a shooting today at an Elementary school in Connecticut. It’s been reported that at least 26 people are dead and more are reported to be injured and in the hospital.  It was stated that a man went in one of the kindergarten classes and started shooting.  When I hear stories of people “randomly” killing others I’m instantly filled with so many emotions…confusion, anger, love, pain, compassion..and the list goes on and on. 

Of those thoughts my mind went back to how every morning when I drop the kids off at the bus stop, my baby runs behind the car with the biggest smile on his face. I was just thinking yesterday “this is one of those moments you never forget” the sparkle in his eye and joy in his heart as he playfully does something that brightens my morning is priceless.  This very same morning it was cold so my oldest child made me some hot cocoa to “help me have a good day”. This gesture did not only warm me physically it touched my heart and soul and let me know that what I do for him does not go unnoticed. 

I can’t imagine sending my children off to school and never seeing them again.  I can’t imagine my last encounters with them being at the age of 12 & 8. Of all the thoughts currently running through my mind, the one thing that gives me comfort is knowing every day I tell them I love them, have a good day and I make them hug me (if they like it or not).

When I started writing, I thought this would be about my anger towards the man who committed this heinous crime, but it’s not.

Today, My Voices are Praying…praying for the parents that have lost their children, praying for the students that have witnessed such tragedy, praying for the survivors of this disaster.  I pray that the parents’ thoughts of time with their child are full of precious memories and no regrets. I pray that the students that witnessed the tragedy realize the severity of the situation and know that they are blessed to still be here. I pray for the survivors, that they know they were not spared to waist away but their life should serve a purpose because they were spared. 

…Until Next Time

Thursday, October 25, 2012

The Special Encounters

The last couple of months I have allowed the worries of the world to interfere with my spiritual growth.  About a week ago I got a tweet from a new follower named Stephanie and it read: Hey lady! How is God treating you today?  I literally stopped what I was doing because it caught me off guard. I was just tweeting random craziness and out of nowhere here was someone asking how God was treating me.  I instantly felt condemned about my recent actions, words and thoughts.  I responded “Hi, he’s been great to me, what about you?” I replied but you know, sometimes we go through the motions and say what we feel people expect us to say or we answer with truth not really pondering the significance of the words we speak.  Later that week Stephanie tweeted Everyone has something they feel strongly about.  But the question becomes are you going to do anything about it.

Yesterday I went to the track to walk and I had the pleasure of accompanying a beautiful young lady around my age that I knew while growing up.  It was my first time really talking to her and her spirit was AH-MAY-ZING! She spoke with such grace and conviction about her love for God and all he’s done and is doing in her life.  I saw in her what I need to see in myself.  She truly inspired me and spoke to my heart and made me do inventory of my spiritual characteristics.  After leaving the track, I felt like God put us on the track at the same time for a reason.  I thought back to the tweet Everyone has something they feel strongly about.  But the question becomes are you going to do anything about it. And it meant something totally different at that moment.  I ‘claim’ to have such a Fear Of and Love For God, yet I do nothing about it.  It’s not in my everyday talk or my walk and definitely not in my tweets LOL. I’m not saying that it should be all that I talk about, but it should be evident when coming into contact with me.

So Today my Voices are Praying: praying for forgiveness of my transgressions, strength in my never ending journey of being a better person, awareness of my actions both good and bad, control to guard my tongue from the things that are unlike him and I pray most of all for a more profound voice to speak of his greatness!

In the words of Stephanie How is God treating you today? And what are you going to do about it?

…Until Next Time

Monday, October 1, 2012

Moments of Stillness

I started a book called “Mornings with JESUS” it is 365 devotions to start each day with. It was recommended by one of my twitter followers.  It’s very similar to what I had in mind when I started my blog.  It includes short inserts that don’t take up much of your time but it’s always a good message.  Reading the book made me question my blogs because somewhere along the way of my blogs, God starting giving me more information that needed to be related so my blogs got a little longer.  A few people mentioned the long blogs, but I would never want the acceptance of what I’m doing to overpower the message that God wants delivered… so I continued to write as the sprit led me. 

About a week or 2 ago my church and book club member wrote a response on a blog saying that it’s ok to be still. In the introduction of “Mornings with Jesus” it reads “Stillness is a word and concept that is foreign to our modern, scheduled ears.  But Jesus is all about stillness..”  This served as confirmation that I was being led by the spirit and doing the right thing.
Today my voices are saying even if you do not take time out to read my blogs daily, make sure to put aside some time to spend with God.  I am also guilty of feeling as though there isn’t enough time for me to fit it in...but whenever I go too long without giving God his quality time he reminds me that it’s only because of him that I’m able to accomplish all that I do.
Freely give God your time daily, before you have nowhere to go but down on your knees and pray! Moments of stillness can save you a lifetime of heartache.
..Until Next Time

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

God's Favor

My career plan in 2010 was to start working when the kids went back to school, stay on that job a year, then move on. I started working in August of that year, but before I knew it, a year was gone, I was still there, and I didn’t have any prospects for a new job. Honestly speaking, I was a little down in the dumps about still being there and not moving on. Because in my mind, my course there had ended, the job served its purpose and I was ready to move on.

On May 22, 2012 I wrote down my prayer “I pray for a job with great benefits, good understanding people, not far from home, more money, good working hours, not much overtime... I pray for a job that will allow me to utilize my current abilities as well as grow in other areas. A job that will challenge my mind and get me out of this current rut.  I am not an average person, therefore I want greatness to reflect in all areas of my life! Work, home, family, demeanor....” I prayed for a new beginning…a chance to meet new people at my new place in life.

In June I was offered a job, but I had prior engagements that were top priority for me at the time and my current employer agreed to wait for me an entire month. (good, understanding people *check*) When I turned in my notice one of my former co-workers told me “You don’t want to burn any bridges” and my response to him was “Some bridges need to burn to prevent you from trying to cross them again.” At the time I didn’t realize how powerful that statement was, the only thing that mattered to me was, in my heart I knew that my time there had come to an end and God agreed.
My travel time to work was once anything from 45 minutes-2 hours dependent on traffic; with the new job my travel time became 15-25 minutes dependent on traffic (not far from home *check*) Hurricane Isaac happened and we experienced damage to our home so we have been staying by my mom, the kids school was destroyed so their schools are now in alternative locations.

Jeremiah 29:11 reads For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Being that I got my job only a month before all of this happened, I am able to recognize God’s favor in my life. The toll that living on one side of town, working 5 towns over, and my kids being 3 towns back would have taken on my mind, body and spirit would have been tremendous.  God spared me from the exhaustion that would have happen to me had I still been working that job, but he also made sure that his timing was perfect so that I realized it was him working things out in my favor, not just “my plan” unfolding.  In a previous post entitled Restoration I wrote “Restoration happens when your willingness to live a Godly life and God’s timing collide…” I also wrote “We have to be at the point in our lives where we allow him to take away what we have in mind for ourselves…and allow his will to be done” and this is exactly what happened to me.
      Moral of the Story: Just because things don’t happen when you want them, doesn’t mean they won’t happen when God’s timing is right. In the bible there are many instances that God performs acts to make people aware that HE IS! “You were shown these things so that you might know that the Lord is God; besides him there is no other”. I feel the reason God doesn’t allow things to happen when WE want them is because he wants his presence and power to be recognized and not overlooked! If things happen in our timing we may think it was a lone act when in all actuality it wasn’t.

I almost forgot, the other blessing staying over a year brought me was some friends that have changed my
life forever! God allowed me to meet them at a time when we could each compliment each others lives. How's that for favor?

So today my voices are praying that God continues to make his favor known in my life and that I continue to realize it and give him thanks, glory and honor! God loves when we share the greatness of his word and his great works and I love it when he shows off!!

…Until Next Time
  

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Happy Birthday to Me

Looking at myself I see a 33 year old woman who has lived life to the fullest! I see a woman that knows REAL love, REAL heartbreak, REAL success & REAL disappointments. And in experiencing all those things, I see a woman that has learn to embrace herself and all that she is.

 

Here's to loving me and all I represent...strength, weakness, beauty, flaws, brilliance, ignorance, compassion, wit, aggression, the fear of God, love of life and all it has to offer!

 

Happy Birthday Me!!!

September 13th

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

I'm Not Lucky

I remember it as if it were yesterday; it was an email to an old friend that I ended with “Good Luck… No scratch that, I don’t believe in luck, Be Blessed!” It was one of many times my use of words and their importance was brought to my attention.  After that email, that sort of became my saying, but I never truly understood the power and truth in that statement until recently.    

Luck -success or failure apparently brought by chance rather than through one’s own actions. The force that seems to operate for good or ill in a person’s life, as in shaping circumstances, events, or opportunities.
Blessed -of or enjoying happiness; specifically: enjoying the bliss of heaven. Pleasure, contentment or good fortune.

Those definitions really made me think. I remember saying  “I’m not lucky” “You’re so lucky” and “Good Luck”.  But the truth of the matter is, I’m not lucky! I’m not one of those people that just stumble upon fortunes or one of those people that know what to say to get ahead.  I’m the person that never gets a full refund, the one that buy things at full price and the next day it goes on sale, I’m the one that never seems to get a break when looking with the human eye.  

As I grow in Christ I’ve learned a new word called favor and favor is defined as an attitude of approval or liking.  A gracious, friendly, or obliging act that is freely granted. Something granted out of goodwill, rather than from justice or for compensation; a kind act.  So something I’ve realized about myself is I’m not lucky BUT I do have God’s favor and having God’s favor allows me to be blessed..which means I enjoy the bliss of heaven and have good fortune, contentment and pleasure. I may not be the lucky one that walks into great opportunities but I AM the one that God sets things aside for personally. I’m the one that God gives the knowledge and strength to endure any situation so that when the going gets tuff I don’t rely on luck to make it through. I’m the one that knows what God gives, no man can take away!  Which means.. what’s for me and given to me, by way of blessings and favor can NOT be taken by luck and happenstance.  The only thing that can alter my outcome is the way I choose to handle the situations that I’m faced with.

Life and death truly are in the power of the tongue; when I took luck out of my vocabulary and replaced it with blessed, I subconsciously took the restraints of luck off and replaced that with blessings, which released a whole new world full of possibilities. 

So today my voices are asking you to leave luck to people who don’t believe in free will and the ability to make one’s own decision. Leave luck to those who don’t believe in God’s favor and blessings.  Do you want your success or failure to be left up to chance? Do you want your circumstances to be dictated by things against your will and God’s desire for your life? 

Remember with God all roads lead to success, some just take longer dependent on the way you handle the situations your faced with.

Until Next Time…
Be Blessed

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Hurricane Isaac

It started off as typical day when there's a bad storm. We all slept in one room because I didn't want us split. The boys were on a mattress on the floor and we were in the bed. We rose to no electricity, no water and HUNGRY! Demond went in the garage to fix breakfast on the grill and we followed behind him… outside the clouds were threatening, the rain was endless but there was still a sense of calmness in the air despite the strong winds.  We looked around and noticed that the area behind the house was flooded and so was the street in front of the house.  But there was still grass that was visible along the side of the house and in the front.  We went back inside and ate, we may have stayed inside for about an hour or so…when we went back outside everything had changed drastically it was now extremely gloomy outside, there was no sign of grass only water that went back as far as we could see… What was once visibly our yard, our street, our driveway was replaced with never-ending water resembling a lake with mailboxes, houses and cars strategically placed in it.  

We called to be rescued because the water rose really fast. I grabbed everyone's hand and we made a circle on the floor, it was time to pray..."Lord we come before you giving you all the glory, all the honor and all the praise! I pray the blood covering over me and my family, I ask that you send your angels to watch over and protect us during this storm. We love you Lord, Amen."

A fire truck came hours later "Someone will be back in 25 minutes to get you, be ready!" was shouted through the intercom. We opened the door without thinking and a tidal wave of water stormed in the house, it was instant panic as the water poured into the house. We closed the door and tried to absorb as much water as possible. Later a boat came that took us away from our home.  We floated away with all signs of coming back to anything pointing at slim to none.  

While in the boat we were surrounded with devastation but not defeat so that in itself was a blessing. During this test God used so many people to show his Greatness and for that I will always be thankful.  God's favor just kept shining through so many people.  The love, sincerity and concern showed by our family and friends has truly been an amazing gift from God.  Initially people are inclined to say "If you need anything let me know" but we are blessed enough to be surrounded by people that actually mean what they say.

...Until Next Time

Outside My Front Window

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

...Asking all them questions

In life, we as human beings question things often.  Why, when, how and who are just a few of the questions we ask. As we grow older these questions never really change, the circumstance and seriousness of the matter may, but we still question life. Eventually after having millions of questions and no answers we usually take those questions to God.  But, as our relationship with God matures, there are certain questions that we expect not to have to ask anymore.  Have you ever found yourself wondering why your still enduring some hardships now that you are trying to develop yourself in Christ? Have you ever found yourself asking God why, how, when or who? When heartache comes we often wonder why God would allow us to feel the way we do.
As I was reading I came across something that read  “God is more concerned about your character development than your comfort level.” When I read those words, it was as if the wind was instantly taken from within me.  What I’ve noticed through this journey is, revelations and confirmations come in the strangest forms.  God will get his message to you through many venues.  After reading, I had to thank God for answering my prayers and giving me the information needed to continue my walk with him.  There are times that I have questioned God,  but reading that made me understand that I have no right to question him in some things, because I’m the one that’s missing the point.   
Let me take a different approach.  If we are a child of God, that makes him our father, right?  What do we give our parents? What is it that most parents want? What gives them the most joy? First and foremost we MUST give our parents respect. Meaning we don’t question why they did something or when they’re going to do something (unless we are ready for the consequences). We should give God (our father) the same respect.  Some questions we should NOT ask, we should trust that whatever is happening is happening for a reason and we should know that his ultimate goal is our well being. And we should be aware that by questioning him we are not having faith in him and we will reap what we sow. Parents also want to feel proud of their children.  They love nothing more than having the assurance of knowing that when they are not around you show people respect, courtesy and compassion as you were taught. The same with God! Futhermore, parents love when you are successful and accomplish things.  It allows them to stick their chest out and feel proud and accomplished through you because you are theirs.  It’s the same with God!  When you react in the spirit its like showing him that you are capable of carrying yourself in a way that is pleasing to him.  And what do parents do when they’re proud of you? Yep. They reward you.. Same with God, hence a blessing!
There are times as a child of God we feel it should be easy sailing... but, Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords, yet he was crucified! So remember you will never be above disappointment, hurt or pain. But you can rise above allowing any situation to overcome you. 
Today my Voices are encouraging you to give God something to be proud of! Show him growth, respect, and knowledge! When you fear someone you dont usually question them and we as Christians should possess the Fear of God, so STOP ASKING ALL THEM QUESTIONS!
Until Next Time…

Monday, July 30, 2012

Write the Vision...


Habakkuk 2:2-3 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.  For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.  My interpretation of this scripture is to write down the desires of your heart to make it a reality when reading your goals. In writing these things, realize that it is not for the present time, but for the future.  Also realize that if we are patient and believe in God’s word our desires will come to pass.  One thing I believe in is writing down my hopes and dreams.  I never realized its correlation with the word until recently.  As I have shared with you before, I make a short-term list each month and what I don’t accomplish carries over to the next month. It is what I like to think of as keeping up with my life’s inventory.  At the end of the month I’m able to see my achievements, my determination or the lack there of.  You’ll be amazed at the gratification it brings to realize the greatness of God and the many blessings that he allowed you to experience over time.  Not to mention you will notice your strengths as well as your weaknesses and in knowing these things, you can make yourself a better person by correcting what's wrong and capitalizing on whats right. 

My listings include EVERYTHING like personal aspirations, career objectives as well as workout targets. I even list things about myself that I would like to change or eliminate (this is the hardest list to concur).  If you are at a point in your life where you would like to start making positive changes try making a list of your own.  If you do decide to try it, there are a few things you must understand.

1.     Write the vision and make it plain
Know exactly what it is you desire, be descriptive
Example:  Pray for a job with great benefits, good people, understanding atmosphere, not far from home, more money, not much overtime

2.     You must have faith the size of a mustard seed
Simply writing things down or wanting something is not enough.
You must make realistic goals and believe that they are achievable by your own will and by God’s will.
Example
a.     I want to lose 100 lbs in a month (this is not a realistic goal)
b.     Writing down I want to be successful and believing it will happen


3.     Faith without works is dead
To believe something can be done will not bring it pass.
Example: I want to lose weight, but I keep eating and I’m not working out.
I want a new job, but I haven’t applied for anything and my resume is not done
You MUST work in the direction of accomplishing the task at hand, if you want to lose weight, work out, cut back on food. If you want a new job update your resume, go to career fairs, apply to jobs. 
DO NOT do anything that will take away from your ultimate goal.
Example:  I want a husband of my own but in the mean time you sleep with someone else’s or continue to have a relationship where all signs lead to a dead end road.

4.     Glory goes to God
When you reach your goals it is a blessing and should be treated as such. DO NOT take credit as if you did it on your own.  Don’t be ashamed to speak on your blessings or breakthroughs.
Example
a.     Stating “I was blessed with a good job” not “I get every job I want so this one was no different”
b.     Stating “I was going through hard times and God stepped in right when I needed him” not “I don’t know how I got through it”

5.     When you have been faithful over few things you will be rewarded with 
many things
God  tests progression to see how you’ve matured in The Word  and if you are ready for certain blessings.  You must follow all of the above guidelines in order to get to this point.
Example:  You reached a short term goal and you used it to glorify God and or you gave him glory for it coming to pass.  He will then see if you will respond in the same way with more and if you do you will live a life of abundance in all areas of your life. 

These guidelines have worked many times in my life.  Faith without works is dead is my motto.  I know exactly what I want in life and I also know what it takes to get it.  The Fear of God, Learning his Word, Determination, Desire, Strength, Faith and Obedience. 

Before every Test there’s a Testimony, and before every Breakthrough there’s a Breakdown. Keep this in mind when problems arise.

Today my Voices are Reminding you: You are not an average person, therefore you should demand greatness to refelect in all areas of your life! Work, home, family, deameanor, words and actions…. If you do not know where to start to accomplish greatness..here's a starting point.

Until Next Time…

Friday, July 27, 2012

Back Down Memory Lane

As I’ve told you before I love music..so it’s typically how I start my day. I brush my teeth and comb my hair to the beat of the music. But this morning I was being picky about my music selection because when I woke this morning I wasn’t in the best mood so when one of my most memorable songs came on I turned it off because I wasn’t mentally prepared for what that song had to offer. I decided t o hurry and get dress for work so that I could take a slow ride in to work and enjoy my music. 
So here I am headed to work and I decided to press play on my Pandora station and here is that song again, Jaheim’s soulful voice mixed with Terry Dexter and instantly I was brought back to that moment in time that changed my life forever! Every time I hear that song a tear or tears will roll down my face without permission as I bask in the feeling of the day that Demond stood in our apartment singing that song to me. I could remember thinking boy he’s in a good mood, I better take advantage of this. He was singing and reached out his hand and asked me to dance… So here we are dancing in the middle of our bedroom while he’s singing Remarkable (that was back when I thought he could sing J LOL ) he smiled and sang “Girl I know I done put you through some things, and I love you more each day and that aint never gon change no! If you ever left me nothing would remain…you’re part of me…no, you’re all of me…”  It was as if each word that left his lips was being permanently embedded in my heart and mind the very moment it was released, that day changed me! So I was smiling and enjoying that moment of pure bliss!  Then he got to the part of the song that Jaheim sings “How my heart begins to pound; On one knee I will go down, grab your hand and tell you now,  You will always be all that I’ll ever need much more than my baby you’re an angel heaven sent me; once was blind but now I see; never let your love get away from me…Will you marry meeeeee” And as he sang the song he got on one knee and pulled out a box and proposed by singing the song!
So here I am in the middle of my bedroom jumping up and down, flapping my hands and screaming “ O My God, O My God!” as tears of joy rolled down my face. That happened in 2002 and I still remember it like it was yesterday.
Moral of the story: No matter how bad life may seem, a great memory will always be that…a great memory!  Nothing can change the events of the past or the circumstances of the present...but there’s a lot that can be done to determine the type of future you will have.  Start today with making moments that count! Begin today creating memories that can carry you or someone else through! Life is too short to waste on negativity. Do something today that can have a positive everlasting affect on someone!
One definition of memory is a retained impression of event: the knowledge or impression that somebody retains of a person, event, period, or subject. So when you make your decisions, make sure your reaction is that of something you wouldn’t mind being remembered for!
Until Next Time…

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Because of Who You Are

My sister came down for a couple of weeks recently so we got to spend some time together. As we were sitting talking a song came on, it was 'Because of Who You Are' by Juanita Bynum and I began to frown and I told my sister  “I don’t like that song” she looked at me strange and asked why and I couldn’t answer her.  All I knew was, every time the song comes on I find myself frowning and depicting the song word for word.  So I told her “I just don't understand  why she said she praise him because of who he is” My sister is rather opinionated but this time she didn’t say anything... to my surprise. 
A couple of days after that conversation I said my prayers and laid down to go asleep and in my mind I began singing… “Because of who you are I give you glory, because of who you are I give you praise” and I started frowning and then it came to me clear as day why I react the way that I do to that song.  I realized that I frown when I hear that song because that’s not why I give him praise. I give him praise because of the person he has helped me become and the person he makes me want to be.  I couldn’t wait to talk to my sister again to give her the reason why I don’t like that song and she said “Gal, I’m glad you came up with something because I was like why she don’t like that song?” Then she went on to say “That may not be your truth but it is the truth to some people; that's the only person we should praise because of who they are” and I just sat there and listened. After I talked to her I realized she was right and I was being judgmental about why someone else gives God praise and that is wrong!  Just as everyone’s struggle is specific to them so are their reasons for doing things. 
So I decided to start typing, and as I’m typing I had another revelation… I have always known God, BUT  that was never enough for me to truly give him my all and try to become a better person. So basically I didn’t understand the song because it was the fear of God that I didn’t possess. (If this were a cartoon my jaw would now be on the floor from shame)   So notice my shock right now to realize that this blog is actually to reveal a truth about myself that I never realized before.  The Fear of God is something everyone should have and understand and since I didn't have it I did not understand it. How sad is that?
So Today My Voices are checking me saying “Your reaction to some things may be about an internal truth that has not yet been revealed so don’t be so quick to judge people… YOU may be the one that needs evaluation!”
Until Next Time...

Monday, July 9, 2012

New Found Love

Growing up I was never one to really read books. My mom bought me many books, but I would start them and never finish. I never fully grasped the concept of people loving to read. They would seem so captivated by books and I always wished that I was able to do the same. As I got older I noticed that people whom read books seemed a bit more diverse. Their vocabulary and way of thinking was much different from mine…now I haven’t done a study or read anything to support my observation but this is MY take on the situation. To me they always seemed more organized and focused.

One day at work my friends Tia and Steph gave me a book and said that I would love it! The title of the book was ‘The Coldest Winter Ever’ by Sistah Souljah…this is where it all started! I can remember telling them "that book is waaay to big I’ll never finish it", but apparently they knew something that I didn’t. I not only finished the book but I loved it and it opened an entirely new world for me! One where I was able to use my imagination to transform the words on the pages into vivid images in my mind, it’s because of them that I have a new found joy of reading.

When reading a good book and I have to stop for whatever reason, I feel like I’ve paused a movie that I want to hurry and get back to. I’m soo proud of myself for opening my mind to something different and giving it a chance to become a part of me. Recently I joined a book club and I was thinking that maybe I’ll start giving a synopsis about the books I read on my blog.
I think of this as part of my journey that I want you guys to experience with me. I’ll start posting the name of the books before I read them and if you like to read and discuss them with me feel free.

Love You Tia and Steph! And if I’ve never said thanks, here’s a shout out to you! J

…Until Next Time

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Yield to God

Public speaking is not one of my strong points, well I cant really say that because it's not something that i've really done before. But recently I was asked to speak at a conference, my initial response was "Me? Really?" She was like of course you, so I told her let me pray on it and I’ll get back to her. I’ve never really spoke in church before…. As I was talking to God about speaking in church tears somehow filled my eyes and begin to fall on the floor and before I knew it I starting talking out loud and said "God take my hand and lead me, I’m ready to walk with you". After that I told Geralyn that I was going to do it. It was at that time that I was instantly filled with excitement to see where God wanted to lead me next. I had no idea what I would speak about but I knew that by me yielding to God that things would work out just fine. So I felt bad about second guessing Geralyn’s decision to have me speak… Because who am I to stand in the way of her yielding to God, I honestly feel that God used her to help me obtain an even closer relationship with him. Because when I called on him something happen and the spirit has been making great moves in my life ever since. To know that God has a calling on my life and he wants to use my voice and my experiences to spread his greatness is one of the greatest blessings that I could have been given.

Growing up I’ve always heard people say "God put it in my spirit" "God told me" or "God said" and I never really understood what they meant by that…in all honesty it was confusing to hear people say that. But after a lot of praying, soul searching, forgiving and acknowledgment I know exactly what those statements mean. Sometimes we take statements so literal that we fail to realize the underlying meaning and we miss out on things. We miss out on so many blessings by focusing on what we want and not what God has in store for us when we replace faith with hope; which are two completely different things. I have always viewed God as a loving parent… all you have to do is cry out for help and he will show up once you’ve learned your lesson and your ready to do things his way! He wont show up too early because maybe you wont learn your lesson, but he will show up! See that’s all it takes John 15:7 reads "If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you" How Awesome is that? When God restores he re-establishies in a way that is far better than what previously existed and all because we yielded to him.
 
Today my voices are saying, Remember How you React Today, Alters your Tomorrow so do not allow your reactions to be the factor that blocks your time of restoration…work on having them being the reason for your blessings!

Until Next Time...

Monday, July 2, 2012

Restoration cont....


A friend of mine once told me "its amazing how God can restore you to your destiny at any point in your life" "this is probably the destiny that God had planned for you a long time ago but instead of doing things his way you did them your way, and now that you are allowing his will to be done and he’s restoring you back to your rightful place" thanks to her I was driving home from work one day and Restoring the Years by Donald Lawrence came on…and on THAT day, after THAT conversation THAT song meant so much more to me.

The feeling that came over me while hearing that song made my soul cry with joy. Restoration means something miraculous! As the song was playing I could hear my friend’s words reigning in my mind…. Restoring is when your heading down the wrong path and God steps in and allows a detour that will lead you back to him, Restoring does not simply mean to replace something, it also means fixing something that was broken … it does not merely consist of restocking inventory with something better but it can also mean completely revamping inventory by changing packaging (the way you dress and how you are perceived by others) and the storage place (the company you keep).

Restoration happens when your willingness to live a Godly life and God’s timing collide…then and only then will we be prepared to handle the type of blessings that God’s wants to bestow upon us. We have to be at the point in our lives where we allow him to take away what we have in mind for ourselves…and allow his will to be done (whatever that may be). It means replacing our thoughts with his thoughts, yielding to him to help diminish the power of our flesh and build our spirit… But we must first desire more than just pain being replaced with joy we must desire a closer relationship with God because then and only then will we be restored with increase like in Job 42 when Job prayed for his friends and God blessed him with twice as much as he had before… Verse 12 begins by saying ‘So the Lord blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning…

So today my voices are praying that we as people remember that it is time to take self out of the equation. My voices are praying for God's guidance and my willingness to follow, because I know only then will my life and God's timing collide causing my time of restoration.

Until Next Time...

Restoration

Years ago I started something that I called my journey to self. It was a time in my life where I felt the need to get to know myself in every meaning of the word…my hopes, dreams, prayers, likes, dislikes and so on. It was something that I took really serious. It was really an eye opening experience for me, but somewhere along the way I ventured off that path and just begin to live life. I began living with no real direction, I was simply living with a level of contentment with no major goals or aspirations…you know what Christians call backsliding. Then something in me changed again and I found my way back to that journey of self and this time along with that journey came a closer relationship with God and I couldn’t be more excited! The revelations that come along with knowing myself and knowing God are amazing. Its like when you became comfortable with who you are you are able to hear God’s words more clearly (figuratively speaking that is) …When the clutter of our confused minds (flesh) is cleared out, it clears a path for divine direction (spirit) to happen in our lives. I’m saying all of this to say that God is in the restoring business.
You know that song by Donald Lawrence where they sing about restoring the years you’ve sown in tears.

The lyrics are :
Lend me your ears thus said the Lord
And know that my word, will not return void
Your time I sustained, there's no need to fear,
I'm restoring the years you've sown in tears

I am the Author, writer of time
No matter how long, things will work out just fine
Deposit this word, there's no need to fear
I'm restoring the years you've sown in tears

Lift up you hands, receive from the Lord
Your broken spirit, receive from the Lord
Deposit this word, there's no need to fear
And they go on to sing…I'm Healin you…..

This song has so much meaning …the thought of God replacing pain with joy, tears with laughter, hard work with success and so forth. People always say God is Good but God is so much better than good….He is Great!

...to be continued

Thursday, April 19, 2012

I Was Here


Any of you that know me, are already aware that I’m big on lyrics…not sure if it’s the hidden singer inside of me or the blossoming writer LOL. A song that makes me analyze my life the way it is now, think about and make previsions for the future and sit back, smiling while thinking about the legacy I want to leave behind is Beyonce’s song ‘I Was Here’. This song describes the kind of life I’m motivated to live and the type of impact I want to leave on those that I encounter. The lyrics are:

‘I WAS HERE’
I wanna leave my footprints on the sands of time
Know there was something that, meant something that I left behind
When I leave this world, I'll leave no regrets
Leave something to remember, so they won't forget

I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I've done everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here

I want to say I lived each day, until I died
And know that I meant something in, somebody's life
The hearts I have touched, will be the proof that I leave
That I made a difference, and this world will see

I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I've done everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know

I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I've done everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I will leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here

I just want them to know
That I gave my all, did my best
Brought someone some happiness
Left this world a little better just because

I was here

I was here
I lived, I loved
I was here
I did, I've done everything that I wanted
And it was more than I thought it would be
I wanna leave my mark so everyone will know
I was here
……..

 
So today my questions to you are:
What type of impact are you having on people’s lives? What legacy will you leave behind? Are you living your life in a way that is pleasing to you and those around you? Will you be remembered in a good way? Has your light shined on people in a way that will brighten paths for years after your gone?
 
It’s not too late to change the answers to these questions…change the legacy that you’ll leave behind. Change what comes to mind when people think of you… leave an impact on people’s lives when they get to know you. An impact that can change a frown to a smile by something you’ve said or done. An impact that will intercept a state of loneliness when they know they can call on you. An impact that will bring you to mind when reminiscing on people they were blessed to know.

Until Next Time…

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Most Windows have a Different View

Some of the main quarrels in life are because of people's inabilities to understand others, stubbornness to only understand themselves and their refusal to compromise or show compassion for others. I feel that so many of life's hang ups can be freed by simply learning to agree to disagree, without holding a grudge.

The top characteristic that forms a persons view on different situations is the experiences in life that they have encountered. The events in everyone's life is different, therefore it is most likely that each perspective will also be different. We as people need to keep in mind that when looking out of life's window, the view we see will be based on our PERSONAL trials, triumphs and failures.

When feeling strongly about a situation never be so adamant about your point that you completely overlook where the other person may be coming from. Your feelings/opinions are NOT the only things that matter. It may be hard to consider others feelings when dealing with a situation, but at some point you should take time out to try and see where the other person may be coming from.

Today my voices are saying: People who do NOT share your perspective on life will not see the same view you see when looking out of life's window. Each window has a different view!

A Thief does NOT share the view of a Noble Man.

A Hustler can NOT comprehend the strict budget of a Hard Working Man, just as a Millionaire can not fathom the struggles of Ordinary People.

A Mistress could NEVER understand the perspective of a Wife.

A Fornicator can NOT grasp the abstinence of a Priest, no more than a Sinner can comprehend the walk of a person that fears God.

But, if each of these people would learn compassion for others they could co-exist without hate.

Until Next Time…

Monday, March 19, 2012

Renewed

I haven’t posted in a while, not because I’ve forgotten about it,  but because I was in a place that I know all so well but I hate being in; A place of discontentment, lack of faith and a feeling of defeat.  See, when I write to you guys, I write from a place of sincerity, experience and in the spirit. Any of you that know me, know that my greatest fear when writing the message behind the voices, is that I relay a message from the wrong voice!  So with the disconnect I allowed to form, writing inspirational things wasn’t something that I was going to do, because I refuse to speak in a way that isn’t true to my heart, what I’m experiencing, thinking or being led by the spirit to say.

With that being said, the last couple of weeks I have been thinking “this can’t be all that life has in store for me work wise”. “My” plans were to get back into the working field, stay at my current job a year, then move on to something that would not only enhance my current abilities, but something that would allow me to grow beyond them. Instead of things going according to “my” plans…I’m still at the same job and I feel as though the knowledge I once had in my field is deteriorating because I’m not using it to its full ability. I feel as though I have depreciated down the ladder of my career instead of gaining more value.  

As I was going through this rut, I had a task at work to relocate a user. But this one was unlike any other i've ever done, it was a young black woman that had been promoted into a supervisory position at work. It got me excited and brought me great joy to do this move because I viewed it as a sign that it can be done…as I was configuring her computer I noticed something on her desk that read something similar to Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. After I glanced at it, all I could do was smile, because once again God was sending a sign to let me know it’s not “my” plans that matter…it’s His!

Sunday when I got to church Pastor was talking about gifts being stagnate and being confused about what is keeping you from the next level (speaking to me or what?).  He went on to explain that what God has in store for you is yours…Point Blank! “NO ONE can stop your advancement to the next level if it is of God’s will but you!”  He clarified that so many times we stand in our way by losing faith, giving up or submitting to the flesh. I left church feeling brand new, with my faith and perspective back on track (God’s track)…and I couldn’t be more excited!

So today my voices are Praying…Praying for continued strength down my path of righteousness, faith and prosperity. Praying that God’s will make way in my life and I don’t halt the miracles that are in store for me.  Praying that I learn to live in the spirit and allow my flesh to become completely defeated, for I know the flesh is weak…but with the fear of God I know all things can be overcome!

Until Next Time!

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Reflections

Every day I receive inspirational messages from a co-worker of mine. Today it read :
"Be careful what you share with others. Your words will either build up or tear down everyone who hears you. Expressing your worry, discouragement, disappointment, and anger will result in defiling those around you, and you will be held accountable for every negative or idle word spoken. (Mt. 12:36) Set a new standard for yourself to only speak as led by the Spirit, and refuse to backbite, gossip, criticize, judge, or tear people down. I am calling you, My Church, to a new spiritual level that can only be attained through righteousness and integrity. Don't miss the opportunities to access these greater heights, says the Lord."

I instantly knew that this word was meant especially for me because as I was reading I was instantly condemned. You see there are a lot of things about me that have changed…but many things that have remained the same. Even though I cultivate the more positive things, I still allow negative things to linger in my mind. There are times I speak on things before I have an opportunity to stop and analyze what I’m about to say and the negative connation that it could bring. The crazy part is, I've been thinking alot lately about my image reflecting my current position in life and the above message only confirmed my need to focus on controlling this aspect of my life better. I not only want my current spiritual journey to be evident in writing..I want it to be projected in my everyday life when I speak, smile or when I’m simply being quiet.

So Today My Voices are Muzzled. They are muzzled until I separate the positive from the negative, the praise from the gossip, the acceptance from judgment and the encouragement from the criticism. I’m sure this won't be an easy task, but I’m ready! The last thing I want to do is deter someone from growth or maturity!

Until Next Time….

Friday, February 10, 2012

It Starts With You

Most people have to be able to see and know how things will get done before they try to change their situation for the better. Take goingback to school for instance; there are a lot of people that would love to go back to school, if for no other reason than to have that accomplishment under their belt. But, they look at their situation and find a million and one reasons that would make that goal impossible to obtain...no babysitter, what about work, how will I get there, when will I study, what about my family, will it consume too much of my time, can I finish, how will I pay for it (the list goes on and on)? Usually people focus so much on negativity that they rule out any future goals that they may want to accomplish because of the negative clutter already in their minds. The term we "speak things into existence" is quite true. When you think negatively and consider yourself defeated before beginning, you take yourself out of the equation by NOT believing that ALL things can be changed…people, circumstances as well as finances.

What people fail to realize is before you expect someone else to come through for you, you have to make the first move and come through for yourself. Make some moves to better your OWN life and change your OWN circumstances.  No one wants to help someone that isn’t helping themselves. My point is, people are more inclined to help those that want something out of life, besides a hand out.

So Today my Voices are Asking you for a Favor:  please change your way of thinking?  Instead of thinking about millions of reasons things can't be done, think about the opportunities that may arise if you put yourself in a prosperous position. Just start doing things and deal with the hick-ups in life as they arise. You will be amazed at the help and support you get when you step out on faith!

A situation will never change by doing the same things over and over again.  You MUST change your way of thinking,  if you want any type of change in your life.  It starts with you

Until Next Time

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Forgiveness

At work I like to use at least one of my breaks to walk briskly.  Today my friend and I were walking and talking as we normally do, but today I started sharing some things with her that I hadn’t talked about in a long time and it inspired me to write.

A few years ago my mom would always tell me “Tasha, you’re blocking your blessings by holding on to anger, resentment and pain.  You have to figure out a way to forgive or you’ll never be able to truly move on.” I remember this conversation as if it were yesterday.  I would just brush her off and say: “I know Ma, but I’m not ready yet.” I felt as if I needed the pain and anger to fuel me to keep going. It was as if the bitterness I had in my heart for those that I feel wronged me, kept me strong, determined and on the right path.  As time went on I did just that… I used all Ill will towardsme as fuel to overcome adversity, and depression.

One day I was headed to church having a talk with God (which is normal for me) my intentions were to pray a prayer for me to move on and open a new chapter of my life.  And out of no where, I began saying that I was ready to forgive everyone that hurt me and ready to move on with my life.  I can remember saying  “Lord, I’m tired of being angry, I want to let it all go and stop allowing my past to bring me to tears or rage at the mere thought of it.”  By this point I was in tears and literally crying my eyes out… but not from sadness, it was from relief.  It was like a weight was lifted immediately!  As soon as I spoke those words of forgiveness, the plan for my life changed.

So Today, My Voices are Remembering…Forgiveness is the Key that Unlocks the Door of Unimaginable Blessings!!

If you need the anger to fuel you, Fine…but once the fuel diminishes do not fill up again!  Release it and move on with love, understanding and wisdom!

…Until Next Time

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

An Idle Mind...

If I had to guess the question that boggles everyone's mind, I would have to say, everyone wants to know the answer to “What If”. What if I went to college and did right in the beginning? What if I chose him/her, how would my life be right now? What if I made better decisions when I was younger? What if I this, What if I that?  There’s an old saying “An idle mind, is the devil’s workshop”. When I was younger this phrase didn’t mean much to me.  But now that im older I fully grasp the meaning of this term.

Think for a second, when does depression or regret usually hit you? When your out enjoying your day, busy at work, running errands? No, depression and regret usually strike in your moments of silence. When you sit still long enough to evaluate and depict certain aspects of your life.  Hence, “an idle mind is the devil’s workshop”. The enemy uses what can be moments of peace to attack your spirit and rob you of joy.

I find that the best way to avoid moments like these is to surround yourself with positive people, and keep yourself busy with things that you enjoy.  Everyone should have at least one thing that brings them happiness on demand…and if you haven’t found that thing yet its not to late to venture off and try new things.  I’ll be the 1st to admit that if something peeks my interest enough, I’m gusty enough to try and conquer it. My many ventures have helped me to embrace who I am and what I represent. Basically, it’s been a win, win for me!   I shut down the devil’s workshop by staying busy, discovered hidden talents and learn to love me in my natural essence in the midst of it all.

Today My Voices are Cheering: Forget about the What Ifs, Embrace the Right Nows and Look Forward to your Future with Expectancy of great NEW things.  Keep yourself busy by learning to love yourself. Figuring out who you are, will reap greater benefits than dwelling on who you were or who you could have been!

Until Next Time…

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Life of Contentment


I have been a Computer Technician for about 9 years now.  I can remember years ago, I was working for Lockheed Martin and I was content with my life.  I had a decent job, an ok salary, my own home, and healthy children.  In my mind, being the country girl that I am, I was already living at my full potential.

As time went on and I grew as a person and in the word, I soon learned that the state of mind that I was in, was a state of contentment.  Simply put, I was settling! I settled for the hand that life dealt me.  While working for Lockheed, Katrina happened…despite the tragedies that were faced because of this hurricane, I received a blessing.  I was hired for a job that opened my mind to something greater than I ever imagined possible at my age living in Louisiana.  I worked with FEMA for 4 years before being laid off.  Looking back, I realize that God allowed me to experience that type of money to change my way of thinking and to help me realize that I was limiting myself in so many ways.  I feel that he wanted me to realize that I have not, not only because I ask not, but because I didn’t deem it possible. 

Having that experience has changed my outlook on life for the better. I no longer settle for what is given or offered to me, I work hard for what I want, speak on what will be, and only accept that which I feel is deserving.

So today my voices are encouraging you to STOP SETTLING!  If you deserve a better job, a better boyfriend/girlfriend, bigger house, more dependable car, whatever it is that you may be more deserving of…GO FOR IT!   

Today I challenge you to change your lifestyle of contentment. There is always a next stage or something else that can be done to better the condition of your life. I want you to literally write down some realistic short term goals each month. As they begin to materialize, I want you to highlight them.  At the end of each month, what ever is left, carry it over to the next month and add it to your new monthly goals…and so on. 
The fulfillment you get from reaching your goals will give you the boost needed to start making long term goals. Once you develop the belief in your ability to achieve things the sky will be the limit!  I look forward to you accomplishing great things.  Keep me posted

…Until Next Time