Respect the Water

Everyone needs water. We wash with it; cook with it. Some drink the recommended 8 glasses of water each day. And during the summer months, many of us are at the pool or on the beach splashing in it. Unfortunately the increase in summer water fun can turn tragic.  According to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) more than 4000 accidental drownings happen each year. And sadly, drowning is the leading cause of death for children between the ages of 1-4 years.

So how can your family still enjoy the water parks and not become a statistic? Here are some tips from the American Red Cross:

• Make sure everyone in the family learns to swim well;
• Swim in a designated area supervised by lifeguards;
• Always swim with a buddy; and,
• Never leave a young child unattended near water.

As you enjoy family time this summer, have fun, stay safe and respect the water.

A New Name

There are two well-known brothers in my community whose last name is Wise. And that name fits them perfectly. One is a Pastor of a large church; the other is a talented Musician and College Professor. Their children and grandchildren are just as gifted. That Wise name really represents who they are. That made me think: What does my name say about me?

Genesis 17:5 says, God told him, I am changing your name. It is no longer Abram (Exalted Father) but Abraham (Father of Nations) for that is what you will be. I have declared it.

Maybe you don't need a new car or a new wardrobe to define who you are. Maybe you need a New Name!

 

I Survived!

Have you ever experienced a "Why God" moment? It may be a medical challenge; a financial struggle; a relationship that is on the decline. In those moments, it may be hard to think about the future. But now that it's over and you've made it through that situation, it feels like nothing short of a miracle!

Singer Gloria Gaynor's Grammy winning song "I Survived" is not a gospel song, but it could be the anthem someone needs to hear to make it to the next level in their life.

Matthew 24:13 says, But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

As the world experiences the Covid 19 crisis, Praise God now, knowing you WILL say "I Survived"!

Getting Started in 2020

Happy 2020!
It's so hard to believe that we're not only beginning a New Year but a New Decade; Wow! I remember New Years eve 2000 when so many fatalistic people were predicting the end of the world; ridiculous. The New Year is when most of us get ready for a fresh start. So if you want to be more physically or fiscally fit, here are some useful tips I suggest for success!
Set Your Goal:  Put some serious thought into what you want to achieve this year and make it realistic. You will not lose 20 pounds in a week, but you can do it over time. Stay positive as you work toward your goal.
Gather your Support: Most folks are more successful when they have a support system. Tell family and friends what you want to accomplish and ask them to help you stay on track.
Get Started: Procrastination is a terrible thing. The "I'll begin sometime" attitude can derail our plans. Not next week or next month, get started now. Don't delay; start today!
Keep the faith, stay focused and have a fun New Year!

The Best You!

Hi Moms:
Gospel artist, Tamela Mann is an amazing singer. She is truly anointed and blesses us everytime. If I had her beautiful voice, I'd sing all day long! But I don't. Singing isn't my gift.  Ask me to write a news article, present a workshop or do public speaking, I enjoy that and I'm good at it.
I can't be mad at Tamela for her gift of singing and you can't envy my communication skills. Because you have talents too.  Don't compete trying to do things that really aren't your talents. Use your gifts to make a positive impact on the world. You can't be Every woman, but you can be the best you!

A Message from the Mentor 4 Moms

Building Our Village One Mom at a Time! 

Losing a Legend

Hi Moms:

It was so sad to hear Rock Legend Prince died suddenly. I remember his posters being in almost every girl’s dorm room in college. And when a group of us went to see Purple Rain, we were hooked forever! What a talent. And yes he was fine! He  was not only an amazing performer, but a gifted businessman. I’m not sure why he chose the color purple as his trademark, but I do know in biblical times purple was the color worn by those of royal birth or high-level officials.

I can’t speak about Prince’s beliefs, but he was a child of God. And when I think that I’ll never see him perform again or hear amazing music that he never recorded, it brings Purple Tears.

Watch Your Words

Hi Moms:
When I was a little girl, I had a friend we called Negative Nelly.  That wasn't her given name, but because she was always so negative, she had earned it.  It could have been raining donuts with sprinkles, diamonds or designer handbags, this girl would find a way to bring you down. Do you have anyone in your life like that or are you the groups Negative Nelly?
Have faith and know it's never too late to change your pessimistic ways. Let's start today.
If you are in a conversation with friends and you feel a negative word is about to pop out, do this simple exercise:  close your mouth. At first, you may have to physically put your hands on your mouth to hold in those negative words. Work your way up to where you'll only need a finger over your mouth to keep  the word  in. Eventually, you'll have the pure will  power to hold them in. And after a while, you'll begin to contribute positive words to the conversation.  What will your friends and family members think?  Give it a try, because no one likes a Negative Nelly.

A Message from N. Michelle Sutton  - The Mentor 4 Moms

Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Direction vs Dictating

Hi Moms:
It's hard to believe I have a  High School Senior. The time between Pre-School and High School went by so fast! And although I'll always offer her advice, I must learn she is entering adulthood, I can't force or dictate what decisions she must make throughout her life.
As parents, we are always our child's Advocate. We may hold their hand as they cross the street at the age of 4, but if we are still holding their hand at 34, Houston, we have a problem!
It's hard letting go. However, you know you've been a successful parent when you've planted the seeds and you've done your best to "Train up" your child so later you'll see them grow into outstanding adults.
Pray, keep the faith and know you have prepared them for their next level.

A Message from N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms

Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Happy MLK Day!

Hi Moms:
As we honor Rev. Dr. Martin  Luther King, Jr. today, let's not only remember him for his incredible speech. Find books to share with our children, so they'll know more about the life of his amazing man. And as we discuss his dream today, let's design our dream for a lifetime! #MLKDay

A Message from N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms

Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Enjoy Your Life!

Hi Moms:
Back in the day I remember the song, Girls Just Want to Have Fun!  In the music video, quirky entertainer Cyndi Lauper belts out the catchy tune, joined by energetic girls, dancing and bopping to the beat!  Girls of all shapes, sizes and shades are enjoying themselves; young and silly and sassy.
Sounds like many of us before children. But now many of us have forgotten that carefree attitude.
That doesn't mean we live without purpose or direction, but when was the last time you had fun; laughing so hard until you cried?  Too often Moms forget that life should be fun too; not just busy and boring.  God wants us to have a good life.
So turn off the cell phone and turn on the CD; dance around the room with your husband and kids or just party by yourself!  You deserve a silly moment too, cause - Moms Still Need to Have Fun!

N. Michelle Sutton - The Mentor 4 Moms

Building Our Village One Mom at A Time!

For Auld Langs Syne?

Hi Moms:
As we begin a Blessed New Year, for many of us, it's time for a fresh start:  Starting that diet (again), learning a new skill, beginning a new career.  As we make new plans, let's also think about the old things we've left behind, like old relationships from year's gone by. Every year I promise to reconnect with my childhood friends and reminisce about the  "good old days".  There have been times when I've finally found an old phone number, reached out to that friend, and sadly discovered it's too late, and that friend has passed away. So I encourage you in 2016 to seek those friends, playmates, even family members who you haven't spoken too in a long time, for Auld Langs Syne.

                                                 N. Michelle Sutton, The Mentor 4 Moms

                                               Building Our Village One Mom at a Time!

Planning Ahead

Hi Moms:

Many of us know how to earn money and spend money, but we have challenges saving money! So if you struggle with money management, get advice from a professional. A financial planner can educate you on ways to budget as you build your families nest egg.  So learn to share, spend and save your money. It could make your financial future a lot brighter.

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Truly Appreciated

Hi Moms:
All  of us have days where we don't know our value. No one said thanks when you served breakfast. Your boss didn't praise you for your outstanding presentation. Your children didn't help wash the dishes after dinner.  But Proverbs 31:29 says: "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!" Your value isn't measured day to day; your value is forever!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Thanks to Mr. Eli Williams of Hot Gospel 20

Hi Moms:

Thank you so much to Mr. Eli Williams of EWilliamsCommunications for letting me share my Mommy Messages - inspirational audio messages - on Hot Gospel 20 (HG20) with Eli Williams. HG20 is a weekly on-line radio program that shares music from the top gospel artists. The program reaches listeners across the country and around the world. Hot Gospel 20 is available at www.hotgospel20.com and via the free HG20 with Eli Williams mobile app, and on TuneIn internet radio. Listen to Hot Gospel 20 and be blessed!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Ways to Win

Hi Moms:
I've been told, when you have haters, you must be doing something worthwhile.  Haters are afraid of you and are terrified by your potential. But don't let your enemies deflate you.  Use their insecurities to ignite your purpose!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Begin @ Home

Hi Moms:
I was so honored and surprised to see my editorial printed in the In-Box section of the October 2014 issue of Essence Magazine - WOW! My comments came from an article titled Moms on the Front Lines where African-American Moms shared how they advocate in their communities. Here's what I wrote:
As a member of the National Parent Teacher Association's Communication Committee, it was awesome to see other African-American women in "Moms on the Front Lines".  However, you don't have to be on the national stage to make an impact.  Begin at home in your own backyard. Every little bit makes a big difference!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Stand Tall

Hi Moms:

I’ve noticed even in 2014, the definition of being a woman still has some blurred lines. It isn’t being meek and submissive to abuse and it’s not sexting nude pictures to your boyfriend.  Being a woman means showing confidence; self respect. It means letting people know what you stand for and what you won’t stand for.  Let’s show a positive example for our girls to follow.

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

The Little Things

Hi Moms:

September is National Self Improvement Month. A great time to make some great changes. Maybe we can improve our focus by not taking things for granted. I'm grateful I woke up this morning, because a lot of people didn't.  What makes you grateful?

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

Faith not Facts

Hi Moms:
I've been told:
Never give up on what you really want to do.  The person with big dreams is more powerful than the one with all the facts!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!

National Thrift Shopping Day - Hurrah!

Hi Moms:

Sunday, August 17th is National Thrift Shopping Day. And as one who thinks of any excuse to go to my local Thrift Stores, having a national day to shop makes it a celebration! When you shop at Thrift Stores, you are helping many people in your community; the homeless, disabled, and those looking for jobs. So on Sunday, August 17th make a difference and shop thrifty!

Building Our Village One Mom @ a Time!