Merry Christmas!

Another First!

We all have firsts in our lives. First word, first steps, first kiss and first love. You get the message. We can go on and on even outside of our lives to historical moments, etc. My first Christmas without my mother was years ago, now it's without my brother. Yes, I'm sad but I'm not the only person who has a list of firsts. So, this Christmas, let's look back and cherish the moments with our loved ones or the people we loved and be grateful for them, Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

I get these inspirations most of the time. Some are really thought provoking and some are tear jerkers. I don’t know who wrote this but it’s a good story! This is truly another Christmas Story!

Thank you, Stephanie, you never stopped sending me these after all these years! I am grateful!

Two Babies in a Manger

It was nearing the holiday season in 1994, and it was time for our orphans to hear, for the first time, the traditional story of Christmas. We told them about Mary and Joseph arriving in Bethlehem. Finding no room in the inn, the couple went to a stable, where the baby Jesus was born and placed in a manger.

Throughout the story, the children and orphanage staff sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word. Completing the story, we gave the children three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins I had brought with me.  No colored paper was available in the city.

Following instructions, the children tore the paper and carefully laid strips in the manger for straw. Small squares of flannel, cut from a worn-out nightgown a lady had given us, were used for the baby's blanket. A doll-like baby was cut from the felt we had brought from the United States. The orphans were busy assembling their manger as I walked among them to see if they needed any help.

All went well until I got to one table where little Misha sat. He looked to be about 6 years old and had finished his project. As I looked at the little boy's manger, I was startled to see not one, but two babies in the manger. Quickly, I called for the translator to ask the lad why there were two babies in the manger. Crossing his arms in front of him and looking at this completed manger scene, the child began to repeat the story very seriously. For such a young boy, who had only heard the Christmas story once, he related the happenings accurately - until he came to the part where Mary put the baby Jesus in the manger.

Then Misha started to ad-lib. He made up his own ending to the story as he said, "And when Maria laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay.  I told him I have no mamma and I have no papa, so I don't have any place to stay. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn't, because I didn't have a gift to give him like everybody else did.  But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, ‘If I keep you warm, will that be a good enough gift?’ And Jesus told me, ‘If you keep me warm, that will be the best gift anybody ever gave me.’ So I got into the manger, and then Jesus looked at me and he told me I could stay with him—for always."

As little Misha finished his story, his eyes brimmed full of tears that splashed down his little cheeks. Putting his hand over his face, his head dropped to the table and his shoulders shook as he sobbed and sobbed.  The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon nor abuse him, someone who would stay with him - FOR ALWAYS.

Jesus came so that we could be His children – for always.

Unknown Writer

Happy Birthday, Sagittarians!

Especially, Nana, Judy, Charliss, Mae, Hazel, Leslie, Carolyn, Bobby, Cindy, Chris, Jean, Vivian and many others I have forgotten to mention and have moved on. God bless you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cherish the moments with the people you care about.

God's Pie

Rest in Peace, Officer Stacy Case! End of Watch, November 7, 2015!

Stacy Case had been with the Columbia Police Department a little over four years, but had a previous 15-year career in the U.S. Army as a military police officer, where she was a veteran of the Iraq War.  She received several awards while serving her country, including the Iraq Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Award, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and a Good Conduct Award.  She died in a car collision answering the call of duty. 

Rest In Peace, Mrs. Annie B. Coulter!

The funeral service for Mrs. Annie Bell Coulter, 99, of North, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, at St. Mark United Methodist Church, North, with Dr. Thomas J. Bowman Sr. officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mark United Methodist Church East Cemetery. Such a blessing! God bless you and the family, LT!

Friends?

I took a shortcut today through a residential community and passed a former co-worker’s home.  I noticed a For Sale sign on the front lawn and men working on the home. She had risen through the ranks and moved to bigger and better opportunities in DC.  We never became good friends but we have held a few serious conversations at one time or another. She passed away a few years ago from cancer. She was a wonderful person but some might disagree.

I mentioned this to say that the few people we do consider friends, we don’t tell them enough how we appreciate them. I, personally, have that problem. I've always questioned myself why I don’t let people get close to me. It’s not the hurt that I’m concerned about, we’ve all been hurt. My concern is the loss of someone in my life that I care about. It’s draining so I build my walls.  When people care about me, I am reluctant to reciprocate. So, it’s easier to distance myself. It may be selfish. While I’m avoiding being hurt, I end up hurting them. Yeah, I’m a piece of work.

So, I move on without any explanations and accept the blames against me. I’m getting better but tell that to the others that I have already offended. My sincere apologies.

Happy birthday, Mom!

Thank you, Lord, for the time you gave us!

The Refugee Question!

Pope Francis, this past week was in Washington, DC, where he spoke to Congress and the United Nations in New York on climate change and immigration. This weekend, he is heading to the city of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, PA. He has been full tilt since he left Italy.

Let me say right now that the tales of refugees are being put in place right now. How, you might say? One group of politicians wants to shut down immigration and another want to keep the US doors open. Keeping the doors open comes with a price. Who are the doors being opened to? Who needs to be kept out? It could be to a lot of people who don't fit America's descriptions.

The tales spinning have begun. A conservative from upstate South Carolina stated on her FB page that, “According to the FBI, these refugees cannot be vetted. Refugee status means these people will be immediately entitled to a huge array of benefits … that our most vulnerable citizens, including women and children at risk, need.” I have heard already through various discussions that the refugees will not assimilate to the US but intend to change the US to a Muslim nation. True or false, only time will tell.

And the President will be still be blamed for all the bad things that happen.

h

Mission or Position?

Which is more important?

An Open Letter To My Baby Brother, 1954-2015!

March 2, 1954 - July 24, 2015

We got you back home, Austin. It’s been a challenging two weeks for us but even tougher for you and the years of suffering. You played it off with me as long as you could but the pain would not let you hide it any longer. I am so grateful that the children saw you in those last days. It wasn’t easy for them then and it definitely was not any better at your celebration. You have some beautiful children and I always thought you were so blessed to have them. You have a son that favors you and a daughter that favors her mother.  And a wife that is loyal and supportive. I found that so awesome! There is so much to be thankful for.

You would have been proud. Unity Mortuary conducted it with class and dignity. It was a fantastic tribute and the Colonel oversaw all of the details. I know, I have always called Melinda; Colonel. It was meant to respect for her rank. As you know, I am very proud of her for her military achievements and her soon to have doctorate. I never meant it to sound impersonal by not calling her Melinda. I enjoy calling her colonel. She provided the pictures for a slide show that included the family, you and mom. I saw a side of you that I never knew. I guess we both are private people and keep our feelings suppressed for fear of reprisals. I still have a tough time letting people in. I also know that we are both stubborn individuals. You never got a chance to meet April.

Devin and Melinda read some beautiful poems and Teria got up to stand beside Devin when he started to fill up with tears and struggled to go on. But he got it together. It was a beautiful tribute. Speaking of Teria, that young lady can truly sing. As you, mom and Nana look down on us with prayer, you will see her rise to fame. She has a lovely voice and that song she sang brought tears, shouts and thunderous clapping. It’s called “Hope You Can Dance.” Gladys Knight sang it in the “Family That Preys.” Lee Ann Womack sings it, too! Another song that stood out was “I Look To You” by Whitney.

Tia and your grands, Michale, Calim and I forgot the name of the oldest, made it. I had not seen her over 20+ years. I still recognized her as she, too, favors her mother. I told them all at the celebration that I will call them at least once a month to stay in better contact. I can’t be responsible for waiting to see our family during grieving situations. I need to also keep in touch when things are well. Our cousin Robert has always been that person. I mailed Aunts Babb and Dot the program.

It still hasn’t dawned on me that you and I can’t talk or disagree anymore. The movie “Kingdom Come” is on and I can’t help but think of us when we were kids and became adults. I am so grateful (blessed) that we reconciled last year but deep inside I am feeling the loss. When mom left, the world took on a different view, now there’s another view and it’s getting better how I view it. It’s hard for me to let go, Austin, it’s really tough. I couldn’t truly cry until 3 months after mom and I think it was a TV commercial that triggered it.

I have so much to talk about but even if you were around, I probably would not even think about it. I wonder why when people are gone from our lives we are ready to talk but not always knowing what to talk about?

The kids kept some of your ashes for their rings and bracelets. They spread the rest over the lake and Anderson. Jewelry that holds loved ones remains, never knew that. I’m getting old. I’m glad you’re back home, You will always be my baby brother, Austin. I love you!

The Flag is Down, July 10, 2015!

The Confederate Flag is Coming Down in South Carolina!

Yes, the law was passed after a long night of contentious discussion. For once a serious racial dialogue took place in the hallowed chambers of our state capital. The Civil War has been over but there were still some fighting. This battle was won between two opposing forces, heritage and pride, hate and fear, black and white, old and young and republican and democrat. It had to take the lost of innocent lives, specifically, nine, including one of their own to change the hearts and minds of the old guard. Amazingly, from the exact two three weeks of the Emanuel Nine deaths, the South Carolina legislature joined together to take down the Confederate Flag. To some it was a symbol of heritage but to many it was used as a symbol of fear and hate. The battle might have been won but the war will continue in the minds of many who will use excuses not to move forward but to remain in the past. A special thanks goes to the many who supported and orchestrated this historical change. God bless South Carolina and the United States!

9 Deaths, 9 Funerals, 1 Million Tears!

3 men and 6 women from 26 to 87 years of age shot down in the middle of worship. A place where it was thought to be safe for all, a House of God. Our prayers are with the Charleston Community, the National Community and the World Community! It is so very tragic that people still hate each other. Pray, brothers and sisters, pray! How much more will it take for us all to come together?

And The Buzz This Time Is ...!

I don’t hear much in the news about Miley Cyrus’s opinion relating neither being a boy or girl. Whatever sexuality she claims, it’s her business. But the big news buzz is about Rachel Dolezal, the current NAACP chapter president in Spokane, Wash., who was exposed for pretending to be a black woman. And this is news because a white person pretends to be black! Any news about any black person pretending to be white? How about a gay person pretending to be straight? I don’t have time for that. People tend to lean towards gossiping about other folks business but what about events that are affecting them now? Is the media even concerned about wars, jobs, health care, government obstruction, income disparity, racial inequality and cyber theft? Roadways and bridges are unsafe and are deteriorating and racial relations seem to be going backwards. The homeless population is growing and more veterans are committing suicide every day! Who will help these groups of people? These topics are just a few but they are much more important than worrying about what people believe about themselves.

Happy Memorial Day!

Thank you to those who have served our country and to the many more that supported, encouraged and lost those that did! Stay loving and proud!

William McDowell - In

Bishop Leonard Scott Lord You Reign

Happy Mother's Day!

I miss you, mom! To you remaining Queens, enjoy your day!

UNISOGHN!

Get to know the people you work with, you would be surprised of their talents and capabilities. I found out that I work with a celebrity today. Terrance G with United Sons of God Harmonizing Naturally (UNISOGHN), , who opened for the legends like Robert Flack, Jerry Butler and the like, humbly and quietly works along us. Like I said in previous posts, you really don't know a person until you actually get to know them.

UNISOGHN Opening for Jerry Butler!

Opening for the Legend, Mr. Jerry Butler!

Joyce Meyer Conference, Columbia, SC - April 10, 2015!

Joyce Meyers

Matt Redman and Christy Nockels

Change to Transform - "Change can initially be frightening but eventually refreshing." Yes, there is a blessing in the process. Be more excited about where you are than be discouraged about how far you are. If we keep the faith and go through Jesus Christ, our converter to His Father, we will be a lot better off. I enjoyed seeing and hearing Joyce at the conference.

Thoughts for Holy Week!

Praise, Jeers, Denial, Silence, Death and Return! One moment Christ is being praised at his entrance to the city and there is celebration. Fast forward, He is jeered and an innocent life traded for a murderer’s. His closest confidante denies him. Christ answers his accusers with silence, is crucified and returns!

How many times have we all been through these dramas? We might not have physically died but we lost what we had due to some wrongful accusations and hit rock bottom.  Some of us, by the grace of God and His divine destiny for us, came back.

Let us all take some time to reflect on what happened during the days before Resurrection Day!

Bring Your Burdens to God!

Last week was like being in a sandstorm. My environment seemed to change each moment of the day. From good news to sadness, discouraging to encouraging and all other mixed emotions.Each day had its own theme. Each time I took my hand out of God’s I was being swept away by the powerful wind of anxiety. I do not know how many times I wept, but I knew what it was about. And during those times, I kept praising and thanking God for His mercy. Living is not easy but life could still be a lot worse to us. We all go through something, good and bad and we get through it. We are here to see another day and we should rejoice and be glad in it. When the dust started settling and I thought I was falling, God held me up. I am still standing and I announce publicly thank you Lord! He never left me. Even though I am still in a storm, I can see in front of me. The walk by faith and not by sight is taking some time to get used to but I will. I am learning not to get distracted from taking my eyes off the Lord by looking at the stormy waters. I am learning to reach out my hand for His even when things seem alright. I constantly remind myself how many times God has saved me with miracles and mercy. By His grace I make it through the storms. I have a mission and His Will be done. It has already been rewarding.

Rest In Peace, Mr. Spencer!

Mr. Spencer had a wonderful life in 90+ years. He will truly be missed!

Rest In Peace!

The world lost Leonard Nimoy (The original Star Trek's Dr. Spock) and Anthony Mason (Former New York Knicks Basketball Power Player). Spock, 83, died of complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at his Bel-Air home. Anthony Mason, 48, died of a massive heart attack. There were many others this past week that was known to someone. God grant them all peace.

Happy Valentine's Day!

What is God’s Will For Me Today?!

I just started saying that yesterday morning and I hope it will be my daily mantra for the rest of my life. It’s a strong statement but one I pray that I will never forget. So far, it has helped me get through some rough times in my service with those who are less fortunate. I have always tried to be in control of myself but get frustrated whenever things do not go my way. This can be stressful at times but foolish all of the time. I have been given a powerful gift and I am afraid of it. This walk with God is supposed to be a confidence builder and a faith healing process. But the more I see in others I realize how small I really am. God is working through me and I am just catching on.

When you lose control, you get impatient, frustrated and temperamental. I noticed that I was having good days, better days and draining days. The draining days were the times I allowed the negativity from the environment to pull the joy out of me. Notice that I said allowed. I started reviewing the differences in the days and to be honest with myself, I found that they all had their equal share of drama, intensity and compassion. I had no control over any of them. The only differences were none of the situations had a set schedule and time. My revelation was hearing that voice that told me that it was never my will but His Will that will be done. The Lord’s Prayer says it all, “Thy Will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

Life’s Lessons!

We all know or have learned the various lessons life has taught us. Each of us has our own story to tell. The stories we tell have made an impact to us. I have seen grown men lose their homes after 46 years because they missed one year paying property taxes. The major issue: The owner was in the hospital and tried to notify the authorities. It did not matter. People that you would not expect are dealt harsh blows such as architects, businessmen, pilots and other professionals learned that no one will be excluded from learning some tough lessons. I would say that none of us would expect such things to happen to us, maybe to others, but not to us. But, whatever does happen, we have to go with it.  I’m reminded of when Jesus told Peter, Andrew, John and James to follow him. They left something behind. What did we leave behind and would we if we did not have to? We all have similar fears and doubts. We are not as different as we think.

Cory Vaughn Williams – June 6, 1974 – December 25, 2014

Cory Vaughn Williams COLUMBIA Cory Vaughn Williams, 40, of Columbia, husband of Rebecca Wicker Williams, passed away Thursday, December 25, 2014. He was born June 6, 1974, in Bronx, NY, a son of Adolphus F. Williams, Sr. and Faye Smith. He was an IT Specialist. Surviving, in addition to his wife and parents, are two daughters, Gabrielle and Kyra Williams; three sisters, Leslie Scott, Adriene Chisolm, and Alexis Chambers; and his brother, Adolphus F. Williams, Jr. The family will be holding a Life Celebration service on Saturday, January 3, 2015, from 2 p.m. 5 p.m. to be held at Stone River located at 121 Alexander Road in West Columbia (formerly New Orleans Restaurant). Remembrances will begin at 2:30 p.m.

There is never a good time for sorrow. Tragedy can occur anywhere at any time to anyone. The grief occurs to those most affected by the loss of their loved ones. I was asked this weekend to attend the celebration of a beloved son, husband, father and friend by a very close family of mine. I considered it a privilege and honor. I broke contact with some good people because of my own selfish purposes. I regretted what I did. But, in a remarkable way God worked out things for His good. Not only was I invited but while there to say a brief prayer of celebration! I did all I could not to overextend my celebratory prayer of life about Cory. God calls us to do certain works. He puts people along our paths to share our walks in life with each other at certain times for certain reasons that we may never know. Hopefully, we were able to learn from the experience. Some people dwell on the future of the journey instead of the present and miss the moments. This particular family focused on the moments and in return they have a bright future, mainly due to the matriarch who raised her children with love and fairness as foundations and passed on to the grandchildren. She was stern and fair but taught them respect, pride and self-esteem. Indeed, nothing was impossible for them to achieve. She deserves all the blessings she receives. It was also a time to see old friends and family. Sometimes, it takes it takes a tragedy to bring people back together. Cory will surely be missed.