True Success

When I was in College, Success was measured by a powerful job. After Having Children, Success meant they were happy. Now through this Covid 19 pandemic Success means at the end of the day my family and friends are safe and healthy. Maybe being a bit more mature, I’ve changed my point of view to what is really important in life.

Ephesians 3:17 says, Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

This pandemic has caused many of us to reassess what is important. Is success the things we possess in life or is it life itself? When you have a life with God, that is true success.

Make Parenting Fun Again

Hey Moms, are you feeling overwhelmed during this Coronavirus Pandemic? We’re Mommy, Wife, Teacher and Coworker. Some days it can make you want to scream. In fact, go ahead, let it out!

Being in the middle of a pandemic while the children are home all day long can become a perfect storm for conflict. But since it looks like we’ll be here for a while, let’s find ways to enjoy the togetherness.

Psalms 127:3 says, Children are a gift from God.

So take a break from homework and virtual meetings to bake some chocolate chip cookies or make some crafts out of construction paper. Let’s make parenting fun again.

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"!

Keep Moving Forward

Walt Disney was an American animation pioneer. Disney was also a film producer, voice actor and entrepreneur. And of course, he was the master mind who helped design Disneyland.

Disney was known for the encouraging words, “Keep Moving Forward”. But that was just a portion of his quote. The entire message was: “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths”.

One scripture that mirrors Disney’s message is Job 17:9 which says, “The righteous keep moving forward and those with clean hands become stronger and stronger.

We all have a purpose. Don’t let anything take you off your path, even the detour of a Pandemic.  We’ll get through this crisis, if we Keep Moving Forward.

To Be Like Zippy!

I have an adorable 1 year old grand-daughter named Zyyah ; we call her Zippy. Since we can’t meet face to face because of the Coronavirus pandemic, our family connects through social media. During a recent virtual gathering, while the adults were complaining about wearing face masks and the lack of toilet paper, I could see Zippy in the background singing and dancing around the room; not a care in the world.

I thought, “Oh, to be like Zippy”! She had no concern about social distancing or fear for the future. And isn’t that how God wants us to act?

1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you”.

Maybe when it comes to handling life’s challenges, we need a little less us, a lot more God and a tiny bit more Zippy.

Keep the Faith Baby!

Pastor and Politician Adam Clayton Powell Jr was a well known advocate. Although politically he only represented the community of Harlem, his work in the church, civil rights, community service    and his fiery speeches changed the world. Powell was  the first African American to be elected to the United States House of Representatives from 1945 - 1971. He had many impactful quotes, however probably his most famous quote was "Keep the Faith, Baby"! He even wrote a book and produced an album with that title. Those are positive words we need to hear in any era.

In this time of COVID 19, for many of us it may be difficult to see anything positive. However, during this pandemic, this is the time we must look for things that ignite our hope. I'm not a Pastor like Powell, but I'd like to share how we can, "Keep the Faith, Baby" through these challenging times.

1. Look Up!  Let's be honest; watching the news everyday and hearing the alarming numbers on illnesses and deaths can be very scary. It can cause us to feel down and even physically make our faces point to the floor,  looking down; feeling that things will never get any better. However, this is where our faith must kick in. Pray with your family and pray for your community and friends and for our world. Things will get better so don't give up hope.

2. Look Away! Sometimes hearing all the negative news can be overwhelming. You must take a break. Step away from the television. Take the dog for walk, play some board games with your family, turn on some music and dance around the room. Turn off the TV and  move from the latest headlines. It's ok to be concerned but don't become consumed. 

3.  Look Ahead! This too shall pass! Let's plan for the future. For many of us, this has been a time for reflection; what have you been delaying in your life; what's on your, "One day I'm going to..." list? Now that most of us must stay home and shelter in place,  take time to re-evaluate that list. From cleaning out the basement to making plans to  go back to college when this pandemic ends. Start planning for the Next step in your future!

Let's remember we are all in this together so learn to lean on one another and "Keep the Faith, Baby!'

New Years Resolutions: Take Two

Did you make 2020 New Years Resolutions? Me too. And if you are like most people, by now, most of us have already given up on those goals we once held so dear. But don't give up. There's still plenty of time to be successful.  Here's How:
1. Re-evaluate Your Initial Goals: Maybe your initial New Years goals were made out of traditional. Don't be afraid to make new goals that are sincere to your dreams.
2. Take Small Steps: Your goals don't have to be something big. Think of obtainable ideas that will give you a sense of satisfaction.
3. Stay Calm: Take it easy and don't be too hard on yourself. Do your best and you will have success!
Make 2020 your best year ever!