Happy New Me in 2023

Recently our Youth Pastor gave an awesome sermon at our church. He reminded the congregation, at any age, we ALL have a purpose. It was such a powerful message for me. Throughout my life I've always had goals; graduating from high school, going to college, having a media career, falling in love.  However, after having children, my life was all about them. Somehow over time, I kind of lost myself. The only thing I focused on was helping my children achieve their dreams and making sure they had the physical and financial resources they needed. I don't blame my children. The onus is really on me for forgetting who I was and putting my dreams on hold. Anybody else feeling that way?

Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm your; plans to give you a future and a hope".

If you are 25, 47, 63 or 90, don't lose hope. Keep making plans. No, matter your season in life, you still have value. It's never too late to go back to college, write that book, start that business. Remind yourself, everyday, you have a lot to give!

Making Music

I really enjoy the holiday season!  Although it's just the beginning of November, I'm so excited to hear some local radio stations are already playing Christmas music. Just love this time of year, because music is such an important part. And sharing music with our children is very important too.

During the holidays, it's common to attend our child's concerts at church or school. But when the season ends, how do we keep the music playing?

According to a 2016 study by the University of Southern California's Brain and Creativity Institute, musical experiences in childhood can actually accelerate brain development, particularly in the areas of language acquisition and reading skills.

Psalm 104:33 says, "I will sing to the Lord as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being."

Whether it's listening to music on your phone, singing in the choir; or playing an instrument, music can bring value to a child's body, mind and spirit. Find your rhythm and enjoy music all year through.

Five Minutes, Please

While packing away some of our daughters' childhood books to send to our Grand-daughter, I came across one of my favorites, Five Minutes' Peace by Jill Murphy.  The theme was about a Mother and her three small children who wouldn't leave her alone.  All she wanted was five minutes for a little "me time". When I first read the book to my then young children, I laughed out loud because it struck a chord in my life. Like many Moms, we just want a few minutes to rest and relax alone. It doesn't mean we don't love our husband or children.  We  only want a chance to recharge. Taking care of ourselves isn't being selfish; it's essential.

Isaiah 40:29 says, He gives power to the tired and worn out and strength to the weak.

So I encourage all Moms to find ways to get your Mommy-free moments. Make the time, because You are worth it.

Faith Over Fear

After graduating from Clark Atlanta University, with a degree in Communications, my first job was working for CNN (Cable News Network) in Atlanta, Georgia.  The most exciting job I've ever had! Hearing about news all over the world every single day. For me, it was the ultimate way to begin my media career. I loved it. I still consider myself to be a "News Junkie" today.

Unfortunately, for some family members, hearing the daily news is the absolute last thing they want to do.  Wars, Crime, Celebrity Gossip. Most days it's just too much for them to take in. And I understand. Many of us may struggle to stay positive by hearing stories that appear to be hopeless.

How do you balance your life, hold onto your faith and not let the negative news of the day get you down? 

Isaiah 41:10 says, Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Think about what our ancestors had to endure; looking at their lives during slaving, Jim Crow, fighting for Civil Rights. If they hadn't held onto hope, we wouldn't be here today.  The news may change, but our trust in God should not. Let's hold on to our Faith over fear.

Time to Shine

 To all of the 2022 graduates, including our youngest daughter Faith who graduated from Denison University, Congratulations! You've done the work, you've passed the tests, you've crossed the finish line! You've made it!  And your family and friends are so proud of your accomplishments.

When I graduated from college, a hundred years ago, it was such an exciting time. Although I would clearly miss my daily college routine; the campus, my friends and professors, I was also excited for the next chapter in my life. But change can be challenging. Many graduates, be it from High School or College, may not have a clear direction of what they'd like to do next.  Some may falsely believe, because of their age, they have nothing to contribute to the world. 

1 Timothy 4:12 says, Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.

If you don't know which way to go, pray, get advice from a career counselor, speak with a family member or friend whose advice you trust.

Get ready for your next chapter. It's time to shine!

Happy Mother's Day

To all the Moms who wake up each morning, ready to balance family, work, church and community in their corner of the world. Over worked, under paid. Putting others first while your needs are last on the list. We Love You, We Appreciate You and We Honor You. Thank you!

Here's what Proverbs 31:25-31 (Living Bible translation) says about a Mother:  She is clothed with strength and dignity;  she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.  She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.  Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."  Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. 

                             Have a Happy Mother's Day!

What's Your Vision?

Have you ever designed a Vision Board? It's a creative way to write your goals, your dreams; what you want to achieve in your life.

 

You use a blank piece of paper, about the size of a small poster.  First, think what you want to accomplish: lose weight, travel to an exotic destination; get your college degree. Then cut out pictures from a magazine that mirror those goals or use your artistic skills. Paste those pictures onto the poster board and use some colorful markers to describe what you want to do.

Habakkuk 2:3 (Living Bible Version) says, But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the Vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!

You are not too old or too young to share your vision.  Now put that Vision Board in a place for all to see, so your family and friends can keep you on track. So...What's your Vision?

EVERYTHING You Need

After watching this year's Super Bowl commercials, I thought, "If I'd only written some of those goofy messages I'd be rolling in dough!"  Maybe I won't write the next TV commercial that will make millions of dollars, but the latest devotional I've written: Mommy Matters: Why every little prayer makes a BIG difference, could bless millions of Moms! Everyone has a gift. Are you using your talents to the fullest?

1 Peter 4:10 says, As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God's varied grace.

Too often we compare ourselves to others by envying their abilities. All the while we may have an idea to get a promotion at work, a vision to begin a business, patience to mentor a child.  Believe in yourself.  God has blessed you with EVERYTHING you need.

Number Your Days

Is it only me or does it seem like almost everyone is in a hurry? We have ways to cook our food faster, drive faster even communicating faster. People are racing through life. What's the rush? Many years ago a popular song titled "Stop and Smell the Roses" was symbolic for slow down and enjoy your life.  And when we slow down we might see a person in need. That person may be closer than you think. When is the last time you spoke to a friend; not just sent a text. Have you checked on that neighbor who lives alone or is a senior citizen? Did you call your Mother this week? How much quality time do you spend with your spouse, not just talking about the children or the bills, but really listening and reconnecting?

Proverbs 12:25 says, Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.

Make the most of your time. Special memories with your family and friends. Learn to number your days.

A New Beginning!

Can you believe it's 2022?  When the Covid 19 Pandemic started at the end of 2019, who would have thought we'd still be in this journey.  All of us have been through a lot. I'm ready for the New Year!   As we begin this new opportunity, what are we going to do with it?  How will this year be different, better, more productive?  What is your goal for 2022?

Isaiah 43:18-19 says, But forget all that, it is nothing compared to what I'm going to do! For I'm going to do a brand-new thing. See, I have already begun! Don't you see it? I will make a road through the wilderness of the world for my people to go home and create rivers for them in the desert! 

2022 is another chance to do something you haven't done before. Begin this New Year with anticipation, excitement and purpose. Enjoy the journey into a New Beginning!