Bobby Womack - "If You Think You're Lonely Now" Rest In Peace!

Thoughts About My Blog!

I started this blog some time ago to keep a journal about the things that happened in my life.  Instead, it expanded to a place for my opinions and thoughts.  Any way you look at it, this is my forum for sharing my feelings about what affects me.  No, I’m not talking about sensitivity I’m talking about the things and people that have affected me. I think we all have the same way of thinking but may not have the opportunity to put it on paper.  Some of our thoughts and actions are very confidential and we don’t want or need anyone to criticize us about the way we are.  There are lists of reasons not to record what we think or do.

I do this because I hope that it can help someone.  I’m not sure people even read my blogs but there will be a time that could help someone face their challenges and avoid making the wrong decisions.  For me, the blog is a platform to express myself, spiritually, emotionally and socially.  Notice that I did not say financially. You can’t talk about something you don’t know.

One thing we all know is that people and environments around us shape us into who we are.  We also know that if we develop our attitude it can help us change for the better.  We learn something from everyone in our journey of living, sometimes it’s good and sometimes not.  Sometimes what we thought was good for us turned out not being so good at all.  We can carry the not-so-good with us and wonder why we attract negativity to us.  We can put that mess behind us, forgive and move forward.  I learned after time that the people that “surprised” us did not care or lose any sleep for their offenses.  I also learned that I was not any different from them. What made me think that I was any better?  I have affected lives, too. I don’t recall losing any sleep on what I did but I can remember staying up at nights thinking about what other people did to me.  I hope you get the point.

Despite what you might think, we are not on this journey alone and actions affect others just as they affect us.  We have to face our inner selves and ask the strong questions.  What do we want from life?  How will we get it?  What will we sacrifice?  Who will this affect?  How long will it last?  Who can we trust to share our life with?  We can achieve our biggest dream, lose everything else to get it and we are still not guaranteed that we can even keep it.  We don’t even know how long we will even live to enjoy it! We need to figure out a way to get along with each other on this planet and make it happen. What is worth our objective?  Some objectives can be either success or getting into heaven.  Both are not easy but success does not have to be measured in dollars. What is your joy? You know what I’m talking about.

Each moment we live and breathe we should be grateful that we have another opportunity to do and be better!  Each day is a learning experience and I pray that we can get the best out of it!

Official My Heart Sings Video by William McDowell

Congratulations Corporal William Kyle Carpenter, Medal of Honor Recipient!

President Barack Obama shakes hands with retired Marine Cpl. William "Kyle" Carpenter after awarding him the Medal of Honor, Thursday, June 19, 2014, in the East Room of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

Today, June 19, 2014, Corporal Carpenter was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Obama at a ceremony in the White House in Washington, D.C. Corporal Carpenter will be the eighth living recipient to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan. He served as a rifleman in the U.S. Marines. He was medically retired as a Corporal due to his wounds. Carpenter is credited with attempting to shield a fellow Marine, Lance Cpl. Nick Eufrazio, from a grenade blast in combat operations in Afghanistan on November 21, 2010. He lost his right eye and spent over two years recovering from other injuries. Both Marines survived the blast but suffered major injuries. Corporal Carpenter is currently attending the University of South Carolina in Columbia.  Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13 NIV).

RIP, Casey Kasem!

I remember listening to Casey and the Top 40 many years ago while I was in the inventory.  He kept me awake when I drove home from the naval base in Virginia back to South Carolina. His signature sign-off was, "Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars."  You did good, Casey!

 

Happy Father's Day!

I commend you honorable men who sacrificed and got things accomplished with the best of your abilities to provide, protect and care for your families!  God bless you!  God bless the father's that are stressed, weary, exhausted, hurt and frustrated by dealing with the demands of this world to be responsible role models for their children.  God bless the new fathers who had no previous models to accept the new role of being responsible for the children they have brought into this world and will just have to follow their instincts and not abandon their loved ones. God bless the "baby daddies" to accept their responsibilities and stop making excuses for not having their own father in their lives.  We can not ignore the women behind all of these men who encourage, support and engage in a truthful, honest conversation to let these men that they are not in this world alone.  Faith with time and patience are just a few requirements to make men strong.  God and prayer at the forefront of any relationship with make us all stronger.

RIP, Ruby Dee!

Ruby and Ossie - Photo by Chester Higgins, Jr./NYT

Another phenomenal woman, Ruby Dee transitioned to a higher level. Ruby Dee passed today at 91! She's meeting with her husband, Ossie, about a new stage play which they will be again the leading characters. Ossie Davis, also her stage partner passed away in 2005 at the age of 87.  Ruby and Ossie participated in 11 stage productions and five movies during long parallel careers – the two together they helped pave the road for two generations of black performers.  They were also both active in civil rights and a classy couple. They were the Ashford and Simpson of the stage. Our prayers are with them and their family!

Nothing As Powerful As A Changed Mind - Bishop T. D. Jakes!

Time spent well worth listening to!  You are never to old to listen and learn.  Some of us are still learning the hard way.

June 6, 1944 – D-Day!

In preparation for the invasion, artillery equipment is loaded aboard LCTS at an English port. Brixham, England.
1 June 1944. Photo by Nehez. SC206438

Today, June 6, 2014, marks the 70^th anniversary of the military term D-Day which a planned military operation began. June 6, 1944, was the day that allied forces joined together to take the fight to their enemies in Western Europe. The US, with the British and Canadian forces, some 156,000 of them landed on five beaches spreading along a 50-mile stretch of France’s Normandy area. It took a great deal of planning to deceive the Germans of the invasion but it worked. Nevertheless, there were thousands of casualties and some 4,000 plus deaths.  These brave people gave their all so that we can have the freedom we have now. Franklin D. Roosevelt was President at the time but died in 1945. It was the time that WWII was coming to an end.

Despite the freedoms, we have some of us have taken them to the extreme.  We disrespect our current President publicly with no apologies because of free speech.  Even though if we had lost the war would our free speech be abolished?  Would I be able to write this blog?  We have the right to bear arms but in some areas in America we can flaunt it in the government’s face and take our guns in public settings not under threat but intimidating to others. What will happen when good guys stand their ground against other good guys? Will a misunderstanding be resolved peacefully or with gunplay? How many innocent people will be affected? What do we do when our politicians are more concerned about their personal interests than for the people? The real winners are the arms dealers. They promote fear and increase gun sales. A vote is a powerful weapon when you have thousands, it can change the political environment. Let's hope people use common sense.

The President is facing more controversy for trading a soldier for five terrorists. I don’t have the complete details on how Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl was captured and the reasons behind it. It seems that he might not get a hero's welcome. He might not receive anything favorable. But he is home! As for the terrorists, have we forgotten the drones? If anything, those guys will be looking over their shoulders as long as they live.  Our combat soldiers returning home will carry much more than that for the rest of their lives.  They lost friends, fellow soldiers and seen things they couldn't help but see.  The VA and their families will have to deal with PTSD and other mental disorders that can put those soldiers on the edge. Pray that they don't commit suicide or homicides.

We also need to be concerned about the shootings and stabbings here in America. There is a litany of murders taking place across college campuses and homes.  First Responders have to be extremely careful while carrying out their duties.  I wonder if those soldiers who died for this country in past and current wars expected this kind of reaction from the people and country they died for.

Kingdom - Common featuring Vince Staples! Adult language!

Common is an intellectually, socially-conscious rapper. "Kingdom," his latest song, is a profound exploration of religion and violence in Chicago. Harsh language but very thought provoking.  This is the first time I ever used sound cloud. Our young people are longing for guidance and love!

A Time to Remember by Joyce Meyer!

Joyce Meyer

"Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?" Mark 8:18

I have often said I think we forget what we should remember and remember what we should forget. Jesus chastised the disciples on one of their journeys because they had forgotten about a miracle He had done. They had started out on a trip and suddenly remembered that they had forgotten to bring enough bread. He then began to chastise them, asking if they had forgotten when He fed five thousand people with five loaves of bread. Had they forgotten another amazing miracle when He fed four thousand with seven loaves? Had they remembered, they would not be worried about going hungry because of not having brought enough bread with them.

If we would remember the miracles God has done in our past, we would not so easily fall into worry and fear when we face new challenges. When David was facing Goliath and nobody was encouraging him, he remembered the lion and the bear that he had already slain with God’s help. Because of remembering the past, he had no fear of the current situation.

Are you facing something right now that looms before you like a giant in your life? Is it illness or financial lack? Is it relationship problems? Is it something you have never done before and you don’t know where to begin?

The truth is that it doesn’t matter what it is because nothing is impossible for God. Take some time right now and recall some of the things He has helped you with and brought you through in the past. Think about and talk about those things, and you will find courage filling your heart.

RIP, Maya Angelou!

Maya and Oprah

A phenomenal woman has gone to her real home. Her purpose on earth has been fulfilled.  Ms. Angelou overcame many obstacles and turned them into successes. I don't think life was easy for her, I believe she found a way to channel her challenges in such a way to make them acceptable in all of their forms. There will be many more words and expressions forthcoming about this phenomenal woman from the media. Ms. Angelou is a prime example of making lemonade when life has given you lemons.  Stand up and recognize the phenomenal women that are around you everyday!

Memorial Day, More Than Just Another Day!

Arlington National Cemetery

Monday, May 26, 2014, was Memorial Day!  This is a day of remembrance and tribute to the military personnel who gave their lives for our country. These brave men and women should never be forgotten for their unselfish actions. I feel that those still in service are being unappreciated. Granted some branches of the military are not facing immediate combat danger but that does not mean all are not facing dangerous situations.  Do you realize even boot camp can be a danger zone for some people. The rigors and disciplines that a soldier, airman or sailor will undergo can be stressful and burdensome but they are necessary for future survival.  Pray for those that survived combat might have lost their limbs and minds from the damage that war leaves behind.  They have seen things that will never be forgotten! Memorial Day is more than just a day for being off from work and cooking out!  It is a time to reflect, a time for people to think about families who will never see their loved ones again because their family members gave the ultimate sacrifice so that others can cook out, go to the beach and have a great time being free.  Let’s make time everyday to pray for our family members and those in the military.  Just like them, our lives can change in seconds.

To My Closest Friends!

I have not forgotten you!  I appreciate your texts and voicemails but I'm not ready to talk.  You are so kind and loving but I know you have questions and I'm not ready to answer.  The important thing is your health.  I pray that you are taking care of yourself.  I am undergoing a spiritual growth and revelation that I have not experienced in several years since my mother’s transition.  I have accepted and embraced the Will of God who orders my steps.  As you know, I always wanted to be in control of my destiny but I now realized that God was always in control.  I appreciate your concern and patience but I am well and blessed.  You will be hearing from me soon enough.  God bless you and take care of you.  Thank you for believing in me!  I know that you are there for me if I ever need you.

Some Things Never Change!

2014 is still the same as 1914.  Blacks have their places in society and they are not always in leadership or in authority. Some people will never like a particular group of people in any position!  It is hard to change the pattern of that kind of stinking-thinking.  Some won't even take the time to try. Like Wolfeboro Police Commissioner Robert Copeland in New Hampshire said, in an email that Obama "meets and exceeds my criteria for" using the n-word. Life is short and people still have time to hate. This man is 82 years old! Times are changing and there are people who don't like the changes.  Since the President's election there has been quite a few folks who won't admit that they don't care for him because of his skin color.  It has always been about disliking his policies but never openly admitting that they don't care for his color, too.  I don't like what the Commissioner said but at least he is honest compared to others about his dislike for the President.  We can agree that we will disagree.

Follow-up - Mr. Copeland resigned Monday, May 19, 2014.

Try To Stay On The Right Path!

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake (Psalm 23:3).

Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face (Psalm 5:8).

Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies (Psalm 27:11). 

A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps (Proverbs 16:9).

The longer we live the more choices we have to make.  We can get distracted by choosing something new and different as we progress with knowledge, experience and skills.  We get to a certain point that we believe we are responsible for our own destiny and in some ironic way, we are.  Ironic, because we make choices on our own and refuse to take responsibility for the consequences if the action results in failure.  We all reach forks in the road that can change our lives.

I have walked on these same trails for years and just recently realized that the paths I have been taking have been the same.  But I noticed that along the way tree roots are causing the concrete sidewalks to crack and become unleveled.  Some parts are being overcome by the natural growth around them and the areas are starting to look the same. You can get lost if you’re not careful.  In fact, I did get lost when I reversed the direction that I usually walk.  It took me 4 ½ hours to find my way back where I started.  I prayed sincerely to God to help me find my way through these unfamiliar areas.

Is this so different from our own lives?  Everything seems to be going just fine until we get off track or knocked off our feet.  It could be due to our own choices or reasons beyond our control.  Nevertheless, our faith is tested.  We don’t know if our demise is due to the enemy’s distracting techniques. We could be getting closer in our walk with God and the devil knows it or it could be God steering us in the right direction because we were already on the wrong path.

We don’t know why God is leading us a certain way.  We may not understand the reasons behind our challenges.  But God will make up for our ignorance by the Holy Spirit.  We’ll get the victory if we be faithful and trustful in His divine guidance.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:115).

The Cat Is The Hero!!

http://www.wistv.com/story/25515499/hero-cat-saves-kid-from-vicious-dog-attack

Build Another Altar, Abraham!

Let's mark this day as another monument to introspection.  Prayer and fasting have given me calmness, clarity and peacefulness after listening to the biblical prophets, Jeremiah and Nehemiah.  Because they realized their dependence and faith in God they were able to handle and overcome the challenges they faced. I won't go into the details but I can say this; you are never too old to learn!

Happy Mother's Day!

Mother’s Day Is This Sunday!

Happy Mother’s Day to all the super women who sacrifice everyday for their families and love ones to give them the best they have to offer! You are recognized everyday than just this day!  Everyday is special for you!  Kevin Durant couldn't have said it better when he accepted the NBA MVP Award!

As I Get Older…

I learned that I’m not smart at all.  I’m too quick to answer before I hear the complete message and see only from my perspective.  Not very smart because I’m doing the opposite of being quick to listen and slow to speak.  I learned that I have hurt the people that I love and that loved me.  I thought I was considerate but obviously selfish fulfilling my own needs.  I disappointed those that believed in me.  That’s not being wise just inconsiderate.  I learned that if God has ordered my steps then who am I to think that I can control my destiny?  That’s not smart period!  I learned that when people cross paths during our journey living that they all have something we can share along the way.  Whether it’s good or bad, we should take away the teachable moment.  I learned that God is a lot more patient than I am and He wants me to be patient, too.  God also wants me to share in His divine love even if I am selfish.  I learned that I can’t control my past, present and future.  I can attempt do what is pleasing to God and if I stumble or fall, He will help me recover.  I learned that if God forgives me, I should forgive others, I’ve done more wrong to Him than they did to me.  I also learned that I have a harder time forgiving and recovering from the offenses. I learned that life has a lot of challenges but I have learned that all things are possible to God, Who gives us the means to overcome those challenges.  I learned that you don’t forget the wonderful memories you gathered over the years.

Misdirected Outrage!

Let's keep it simple!  The outrage towards Donald Sterling, the LA Clippers owner, is misdirected!  The same ploy was used against Paula Deen.  The outrage should be directed to our politicians who gerrymandered the voting districts who refuse to support the military, the unemployed, the outcasts, the poor, the middle-class and progress of this country!  The Supreme Court who has allowed revising the Voting Rights Acts since there is no more racism in this country and no limits on campaign contributions.  Money talks, folks!  Where is the outrage with the Wall Street CEOs and traders who get more money in a year than most people will get in a lifetime.  Not much was said about Cliven Bundy who owes the government money and still has time to talk about Negroes!  Yes, there is a problem but why is that we only hear about a selective few?  How many people in power discuss how they feel about certain groups that we will never hear?  Like I said, misdirected outrage!

Being Christ-like Is Not That Easy!

Holy Week has passed and what have we done to acknowledge the Last Days of Christ and His Resurrection? Did we take the time to treat each other with respect, dignity and love? Did we meditate over the Last Supper and the body and blood that Jesus gave for us? And what about the suffering He went through for the sins of mankind? We seem to have forgotten exactly what Christians are really about. Going to church every Sunday doesn’t make you a Christian. Following the ways of Christ is not so easy. We need to be growing, be a part of something greater to encouraging and supporting each other. Yes, we all have our personal struggles and challenges. But by God’s Grace, we overcome them and do even better. Our actions should speak louder than our words. Treat each other the way we want to be treated. “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.” We forget this when someone does something to offend us. We hold grudges and want the same thing to happen to them. How quickly we forget to forgive! God asks us to love Him with all of our hearts, souls and minds. Put God first and trust Him! Christ broke the chains of sin and death by returning after death, but He first showed how much He loved us by giving His life. How much love can a person have to give his life for someone who even hates him? Let us all strive to be better examples of what we are supposed to be, Christ-like and practice our purposes year round.

Rest In Peace, Cookie! You Will Be Missed!

God bless you, my friend!

Happy Easter!!!

Remember the reason!

Lead Me, Lord! Guide Me!

The Will of God Will Not Take You Where The Grace of God Will Not Protect You!

April 1, 2014, was just another day the Good Lord gave us. In the biblical days, the Israelites used a rock as a monument to mark something special that occurred to them. It was a covenant memorial to God.  Even today there are many events that deserve altars. Yet, we still don't recognize our blessings. 

This first day in April was the day God’s plan for me was fulfilled! Believe me, my plan was a lot different than His! Forget that I’ve been praying for changes from my situation since last year. My compassion and trust in the workplace were gone. Ever since the previous year, subtle negative changes took place, like slow decaying of friendliness.

Undertaking new challenges can be both frustrating and stressful. When leadership is uncertain which direction to take, but still belittles the subordinates on their errors, who is really wrong? Fire burns off the dross and exposes the true character of the metal. I began to see the real people underneath their masks. Variables that we may never know influenced the outcome of the workplace’s environment. Deceit, vindictiveness, and static communication became apparent and morale was ignored. There is something to be said about a person standing at the end of the aisles to observe what time an employee comes in.  They didn't realize that they were becoming bullies. It was either their way or go. Of course, selected employees were exempted which became the norm.

My compassion and fire were replaced with distrust and discomfort. Distrust with some of the people in position and uncomfortable even being around them. I don’t put much thought in rumors because most of the time they are not true. However, there is a saying “where’s there is smoke there's fire” and sparks can start very large fires. This fire was not going to subside until it accomplished its objectives. Rumor had it that the leaders wanted to replace a certain section of office personnel, break them, discourage them and run them off.  I now question the lost reports and other irregularities. Temporarily, evil designs will bear fruit but “trouble don’t last always.” And eventually, their "deceit" will catch up with them. 

I prayed to God for His divine guidance. I had already committed myself to Him, but I expected God to do things my way. How ignorant to think God would do things my way. God’s timing, not ours, will be done! God is a merciful, loving Father. He knows what is best for all of us. We need to put our faith and trust in Him. Unfortunately, we like to be in control of our own destiny and limit our faith and trust. That is why we call on God to get us out of the mess we made! I prayed for wisdom and understanding but I left out a very important part of following God’s Divine Plan, forgiveness! 

When saying the Lord’s Prayer, say it slower next time. “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Trespass is to offend. How many times have we offended others? Maybe we meant to and maybe not. But, how often do we ask for forgiveness when we offend someone, especially, the people we love? But love is another story, too. Can we forgive people that dislike us? Isn’t this part of the Lord’s Prayer? We definitely want God to forgive us but we find reasons to keep grudges towards others. Are we being obedient? Are we treating each other the way we want to be treated? Expect to be mocked and ridiculed doing the right thing. Hang in there! God’s purpose for us will not be denied!

I am blessed beyond my grandest expectations, I am working with people who I know that I can help and hopefully bring them hope. My faith and trust in God has grown exponentially since I have seen Him make a way out of no way. I am a witness to His awesome love and mercy. I always wondered how the men of God during the biblical days understood the power and love of God. They witnessed his grace and mercy every day! They gave God control of their lives and He never, not once, let them down. But the men did and each time was lifted up by God’s divine love and mercy.

We all have a lot to learn on this journey. If we become bitter and judgmental we block the wonderful blessings the Lord has in store for us. He’s already given the blessings to us; we must be open to receive them!

Whatever challenges and obstacles that we are faced with, thank God for the wisdom and strength to deal with them! Trust Him as a loving Father who wants the best for his children. God wants us to believe in Him at all times. When Peter took his eyes off of Christ and saw the white-capped waves, he began to sink. The foamy waves represent the obstacles and challenges we face in our lives and we sink when we let them overcome us with fear and doubt. Peter, in his moment of fear, forgot who was in control. He forgot who he was with!  I know that I have done this before.

There is a season for everything we deal with.  No matter what happens in life, never take your eyes off Jesus! The word became flesh! He knows the challenges we will undergo! He faced it here on earth and gave His life as God’s covenant with man! Let us all keep our eyes on the prize! 

A Flippant Tongue Will Cost!

James 3:1-12 (NIV) states that it’s easier to control animals by putting bits in their months to make them obey you. Ships are steered by small rudders to go into the direction where needed. But the tongue, a small part of the body compared to a small spark which can set a forest on fire. Animals of all kinds can be tamed by man but man can not tame his own tongue. With the same tongue we praise the Lord and curse our brothers. Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) says that the tongue has the power of life and death and those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

 Some of us find out the hard way! We said things in the past not realizing the consequences. We forget what was said and the past comes back to bite us. You cannot get back what was said in the atmosphere.We indeed reap what we sow. Still, it is not our timing when we want things done, but God's timing when it will be done.  I was at a point that I became distrustful and wary everyday.  That is an unpleasant and toxic environment.  It was a cloud that resulted from circumstances of more than enough but was no longer be creative, have fun, be productive and treat internal and external partners with respect.  The unspoken word was "Do it and I don't care how it gets done." I have learned that there will be those that will always be given a "special" treatment and their word will not be questioned despite the facts.  In other words, everyone will not be treated equally.

There are evil forces in high positions that cannot bear to see you doing God’s Will and they will find ways, large or small, to distract you. We must realize those folks have given in to their earthly desires of selfishness. They have forgotten who put them in positions of authority and believe now only in themselves. They can neither forget nor forgive any trespasses. Their hunger for vindictiveness will not be satisfied until the hardship is completed. How many of us have seen this happen to others or ourselves? We must pray for those. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NIV) petitions "prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 

I have seen so many miracles take place in my life and some very recent. I know that there is a God!  But, if you refuse to move when God tells you to, He will move you. It’s remarkable that the Holy Comforter gives you the desire to prepare in advance. But you will have to obey and trust Him, God is always in control no matter what. We will "trust in the Lord with all of our heart and all of our soul and will not lean to our own understandings...God will direct our paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) 

 My own calmness is beyond my comprehension. I wish no evil on anyone. God is my vindicator. Proverbs 21:23 says those who guard their mouths and tongues keep themselves from calamity. The New American Standard version has "He who guards his mouth and his tongue, Guards his soul from troubles." The point of a mistake is to learn from it and try not to repeat it. God did not bring us this far to leave us. Challenges will always be around us, hopefully we grow from them and get stronger. 

My faith is growing stronger every day. I am so grateful that God is with me.  He has put in place angels to watch over me.  In particular, one that maintains a listening ear and watchful eye over me.  Do not put your trust in man because his motives might be for himself. My trust is in God, my Father, who wants only the best for me and I have to trust and believe that His Divine Guidance will get me where I need to go. 

Psalms 146 (NIV) is one of my favorite passages, there are so many. David had a direct line to God’s heart. As a sheep herder, he had plenty of time to meditate, as a fugitive he had plenty of time to praise and give thanks and as a king, he had plenty of time pray. David knew what grace was all about.

In closing, we must continue to pray for each other.

It's Been Six Years!

Time has really gone by fast but it still doesn't relieve me from the emptiness that I feel from missing my mother.  Yet, I know that she is with the Lord and He has filled that emptiness with an undying love and memory.  So many people have lost the people they love and by obeying God's Will, we will see them again.

Rest in Peace, Karen and "Fats!"

One thing that happens when you get older is that the people you knew either change or move on.  But what you realize is that moving on does not mean leaving your neighborhood, life or job.  What I found out is that moving on is moving towards a new life on another plane.  Two of my childhood friends and cousins have moved on from this world to the next.  Gerald "Fat Daddy" Webb, 57, departed this life last Wednesday, March 5, 2014.  He really wasn't fat.  His older sister, Karen Webb-Martin, 62, left the day before on Tuesday, March 4, 2014.  I don't know what happened but I do know that God's Will is done.  I pray for a blessed and peaceful journey.

Happy Belated Birthday, Austin!

My baby brother is now 61!  God bless you!

What is Wrong With Some of Our Church Leaders?

Something is very wrong with this picture; it promotes fear, paranoia and hate.  Regardless, the author hurls insults at too many people except at himself.  Some much can be said about this "shepherd" bringing souls to God.  I’m sure that he could have found a better way to voice his opinion than this. (See below).

“This is devastating what Obama is doing to the black man and the black woman, and how the white homo is now moving into the black neighborhoods looking for black men that have been converted into homosexuality. But black woman let me say something to you: you have a very hard time competing against a white homosexual male. He's usually got money -- a white homo usually has an American Express card. He usually has an opportunity at the theater -- homos love the theater. They love to go out to dinners, parties, they love that kind of a thing... black people need to rise up in mass and recognize the utter destruction that Obama is going in to destroy the black family with these homosexual statements that he has done and release of demons.”

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/26/atlah-church-anti-gay_n_4860972.html

Thank God that His patience and mercy is for all of us!  We are all covered by the Blood of Jesus!  We need to get our house in order!

Seeing the Works of God!

Others went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the Lord.... - Psalm 107:23-24

Sometimes God takes us into such deep waters that we lose control of the situation, and we have no choice but to fully trust in His care for us. This is doing business in great waters. It is in these great waters that we see the works of God.

The Scriptures tell us that the disciples testified of what they saw and heard. It was the power behind the gospel, not the words themselves, which changed the world. The power wasn't seen until circumstances got to the point that there were no alternatives but God. Sometimes God has to take us into the deep water in order to give us the privilege to see His works.

Sometimes God takes us into the deep waters of life for an extended time. Joseph was taken into deep waters of adversity for 17 years. Rejection by his brothers, enslavement to Pharaoh, and imprisonment were the deep waters for Joseph. During those deep waters, he experienced dreams, a special anointing of his gifts to administrate, and great wisdom beyond his years. The deep water was preparation for a task that was so great he never could have imagined it. He was to see God's works more clearly than anyone in his generation. God had too much at stake for a 30-year-old to mess it up. So, God took Joseph through the deep waters of preparation to ensure that he would survive what he was about to face. Pride normally engulfs such young servants who have such access to power at such a young age.

If God chooses to take us into deep waters, it is for a reason. The greater the calling, the deeper the water. Trust in His knowledge that your deep waters are preparation to see the works of God in your life. 

Source: From an inspiring email

Happy New Year, 2014!

A new year is coming! Choose to  let go of what was, learn from the experience and focus on what can be!   To your future!  May it be the best yet to come!

Have A Blessed and Safe Christmas! Merry Christmas!

There are many people stressing at this time of year for many reasons.  Some financially, some lonely, some experiencing a past or recent loss and others for unknown reasons.  We must still try our best to focus on the reason for the season.  Yes, Christmas has been commercialized, but we don't have to buy into the commercialism.  We don't need to stress out for getting the right gifts for those special someones or wanting the right gift.  Our gifts for each other are from the heart not the wallet.  The greatest gift was given to us to receive eternal life.  How great can God's love be for us? We must do our best to be patient and understanding towards each other not just during the holidays but throughout the year.  It's not easy, believe me, I know!  But we can try.  I wish you all the very best for the new year.

How Great Is Our God!

Driving to work this morning gave me time to think how blessed I am.  Despite the heavy traffic and rain, I reminisced about how much I miss my mother.  There is not a day that I don’t think about her.  I am so grateful to God that I had so much time with her. I am sure there are so many others that feel the very same about their love ones, too.  I find it more amazing that I think of my brother every day, also.  I know that we were not that close in our younger days but since my mom’s transition, I pray for his welfare and safety everyday.  As I get older, I find God’s presence in my life more than ever.  Since, my elevator experience, my friend has given me so much insight on the power of faith that I have to smile to myself and get teary-eyed when I think of her unrequited love for and unwavering faith in God.  How great is our God?  Greater than our faith and beyond any description that we can find words or descriptions for.  Christmas and Easter were two of my mother's favorite holiday seasons!  She loved them all that celebrated the love of God but these two were very special to her.  I will pay homage to her by seeking the real reasons for the birth, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior.  Maybe, I'll be a better man doing so.

Rest In Peace, Nelson Mandala!

I can use a lot more words but we've heard a lot of accolades and praise for the man who was down but got up, forgave and became the first Black President of South Africa!  What more can be said?  Faith is the key! Believing in something you can't see but know that it will happen!

Cloud Atlas - Live Piano - Mark Fowler!

Interesting movie and casting!  The sound seems to stay with you!

Never Forget Their Ultimate Sacrifice!

Veterans Day has come and gone and for some already forgotten!  Men and women who supported this country with military service are not treated as the heroes they are.  Instead, many lose their dignity, respect, and ability to find sustaining jobs because of ill-effects from the war.  What they have seen, felt and lost will never be replaced with a thank you for your service comment.  I'm not diminishing that statement, I'm saying that because most civilians appreciate what these survivors have done.  I am deeply concerned that many of our politicians can do more for our military but instead give them lip service.  At times, some VA doctors have been treating combat PTSD vets with more medication than treating the psychological problem.  I could talk more about this but it would continue to fall on deft ears.  Our military men and women deserve more!  Remember:  All gave some but some gave all!

Happy Birthday, Mom! God Be With You, Brother!

God Is In Control!

My mom's birthday is on October 21st.  She would have been 83 since her transition.  My brother is having major surgery that day.  I love them both!  God is merciful and has everything under control.  HE knows what HE doing and no one can do it better!  To God give the glory!

Grandstanding? No way!

14 days on government shutdown and the sleaze is oozing.

Cherish Our Love Ones!

Lord, we need you now more than ever.  You are calling our elders home.  You know what is best for them and there is no more suffering but peace and praise with you!

RIP, Ms. Essie Middleton!

Funeral service for Mrs. Essie Thomas Middleton will be held 1:00 p.m. Thursday at Zion Canaan Baptist Church, with burial in Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens. Wake service will be held this evening, beginning at 7:00, at Apostolic Church of Christ, 1041 Prescott Road. McCollom-Myers Mortuary & Cremation Service, 5003 Rhett Street. Surviving are her sons, James, Anthony and Sam Middleton; daughters, Mozelle Holloway, Pearline Livingston, Sandra Robinson and Marjorie Middleton; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and other loving relatives and friends.  God bless you!

RIP, Mr. Willie "Son" Irby, Jr!

Services for Mr. Willie Irby, Jr., will be held 11AM Friday, October 11, 2013 at Palmer Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in Ft. Jackson National Cemetery. The family will receive friends this evening from 6-7 at Palmer Memorial Chapel. Mr. Irby died on October 7, 2013. Born in Orangeburg, SC, he was the son of the late Annie Stenson and Willie Irby, Sr. Mr. Irby was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in 1950, attended Benedict College and served his country honorable in the United States Army. Mr. Irby is surviving a son, Lester (Patricia) Irby, daughters Beverly Irby and Doris Irby Drayton, three grandchildren Lester Boykins, Davielle and Dominique Drayton, one great granddaughter Mariella Boykins and other loving relatives and friends.  God bless you and the family!

This Is A Hate Crime!

This is another act of stupidity and people gone wild.  An innocent soldier celebrating the end of his service with his friends was attacked and killed because he was white.  The police in Lakewood, Washington reported that black men in a car yelled “cracker” repeated as the soldiers were walking along the sidewalk.  The two groups confronted each other but the report stated that the driver called it off after learning the soldiers were combat veterans.  But, one jerk wanted to be bad and stabbed Army Specialist Tevin Geike as they were leaving.  Not only are soldiers sacrificing their lives for our freedom everyday, we have jerks like this taking their sacrifices for our freedom for granted.  I still believe that the draft for military service should be reinstated.  It should be for all dropouts from the ages of 17-19 and mandatory for that same age group even if they have found a stabile career.  Shameful.  This country has enough problems already between the races and it seems to get worse everyday.

Wish U Were Here - Jamie Fox Live!

Day Three of the Government Shutdown!

What can I say?  Americans are held hostage by fellow Americans.  Rather than move forward towards progress, a few elected ultracons, backed by extremely rich folks, would rather keep everyone in the past.  It is amazing that if one lies enough, others will believe it as the truth.  Faux News is not telling the truth so they always resort to blame the liberal media.  I thought liberal meant being free, understanding and humanistic.  I guess aliens of some sort invaded that network.  It is a shame that they believe their own deceitful and divisive language.  It goes to show that everyone has a price.  Americans are still losing their jobs. The shutdown takes away even more from the economy.  No more visits to the Whitehouse and parks can not be worse than people being fed, losing their income and receiving healthcare.

RIP, Ms. Elease Price!

Mrs. Elease Harrison Price, 84, of 1501 Lorick Ave., Columbia, died Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013, at Palmetto Richland Hospital following an extended illness.  The Homegoing services for Mrs. Elease Harrison Price will be 1 p.m., Monday, October 7, 2013 at Saint Stephens United Methodist Church in Orangeburg, SC with burial in the Church Cemetery. Mrs. Elease Harrison Price was born to the late James and Annie S. Johnson Harrison on September 12, 1929 in Wolfton, South Carolina. At an early age she joined St. Stephen United Methodist Church where she attended faithfully. She shared her love of cooking and baking with family, friends, neighbors and children. She leaves to cherish fond memories, one son Eddie C. (Sandra) Harrison, one daughter Dorothy P. (Edward) Bates of Columbia, SC; a special nephew Bobby (Elizabeth) Mack; one brother, Edgar Clifton Harrison of Orangeburg, SC; five Grandchildren; six Great Grandchildren; and a host of special nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=elease-harrison-price&pid=167390188&fhid=23110#storylink=cpy

Choose Wisely!

Choose Wisely!

Dr. King's Eulogy for the Young Bombing Victims 9/18/1963!

Eulogy For The Young Victims
Of The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church Bombing

by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
September 18, 1963, Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Birmingham, Alabama

[Delivered at funeral service for three of the children -
Addie Mae Collins, Carol Denise McNair, and Cynthia Diane Wesley - killed in the bombing.
A separate service was held for the fourth victim, Carole Robertson.]

This afternoon we gather in the quiet of this sanctuary to pay our last tribute of respect to these beautiful children of God. They entered the stage of history just a few years ago, and in the brief years that they were privileged to act on this mortal stage, they played their parts exceedingly well. Now the curtain falls; they move through the exit; the drama of their earthly life comes to a close. They are now committed back to that eternity from which they came.

These children-unoffending, innocent, and beautiful-were the victims of one of the most vicious and tragic crimes ever perpetrated against humanity.

And yet they died nobly. They are the martyred heroines of a holy crusade for freedom and human dignity. And so this afternoon in a real sense they have something to say to each of us in their death. They have something to say to every minister of the gospel who has remained silent behind the safe security of stained-glass windows. They have something to say to every politician [Audience:] (Yeah) who has fed his constituents with the stale bread of hatred and the spoiled meat of racism. They have something to say to a federal government that has compromised with the undemocratic practices of southern Dixiecrats (Yeah) and the blatant hypocrisy of right-wing northern Republicans. (Speak) They have something to say to every Negro (Yeah) who has passively accepted the evil system of segregation and who has stood on the sidelines in a mighty struggle for justice. They say to each of us, black and white alike, that we must substitute courage for caution. They say to us that we must be concerned not merely about who murdered them, but about the system, the way of life, the philosophy which produced the murderers. Their death says to us that we must work passionately and unrelentingly for the realization of the American dream.

And so my friends, they did not die in vain. (Yeah) God still has a way of wringing good out of evil. (Oh yes) And history has proven over and over again that unmerited suffering is redemptive. The innocent blood of these little girls may well serve as a redemptive force (Yeah) that will bring new light to this dark city. (Yeah) The holy Scripture says, "A little child shall lead them." (Oh yeah) The death of these little children may lead our whole Southland (Yeah) from the low road of man's inhumanity to man to the high road of peace and brotherhood. (Yeah, Yes) These tragic deaths may lead our nation to substitute an aristocracy of character for an aristocracy of color. The spilled blood of these innocent girls may cause the whole citizenry of Birmingham (Yeah) to transform the negative extremes of a dark past into the positive extremes of a bright future. Indeed this tragic event may cause the white South to come to terms with its conscience. (Yeah)

And so I stand here to say this afternoon to all assembled here, that in spite of the darkness of this hour (Yeah Well), we must not despair. (Yeah, Well) We must not become bitter (Yeah, That's right), nor must we harbor the desire to retaliate with violence. No, we must not lose faith in our white brothers. (Yeah, Yes) Somehow we must believe that the most misguided among them can learn to respect the dignity and the worth of all human personality.

May I now say a word to you, the members of the bereaved families? It is almost impossible to say anything that can console you at this difficult hour and remove the deep clouds of disappointment which are floating in your mental skies. But I hope you can find a little consolation from the universality of this experience. Death comes to every individual. There is an amazing democracy about death. It is not aristocracy for some of the people, but a democracy for all of the people. Kings die and beggars die; rich men and poor men die; old people die and young people die. Death comes to the innocent and it comes to the guilty. Death is the irreducible common denominator of all men.

I hope you can find some consolation from Christianity's affirmation that death is not the end. Death is not a period that ends the great sentence of life, but a comma that punctuates it to more lofty significance. Death is not a blind alley that leads the human race into a state of nothingness, but an open door which leads man into life eternal. Let this daring faith, this great invincible surmise, be your sustaining power during these trying days.

Now I say to you in conclusion, life is hard, at times as hard as crucible steel. It has its bleak and difficult moments. Like the ever-flowing waters of the river, life has its moments of drought and its moments of flood. (Yeah, Yes) Like the ever-changing cycle of the seasons, life has the soothing warmth of its summers and the piercing chill of its winters. (Yeah) And if one will hold on, he will discover that God walks with him (Yeah, Well), and that God is able (Yeah, Yes) to lift you from the fatigue of despair to the buoyancy of hope, and transform dark and desolate valleys into sunlit paths of inner peace.

And so today, you do not walk alone. You gave to this world wonderful children. [moans] They didn't live long lives, but they lived meaningful lives. (Well) Their lives were distressingly small in quantity, but glowingly large in quality. (Yeah) And no greater tribute can be paid to you as parents, and no greater epitaph can come to them as children, than where they died and what they were doing when they died. (Yeah) They did not die

in the dives and dens of Birmingham (Yeah, Well), nor did they die discussing and listening to filthy jokes. (Yeah) They died between the sacred walls of the church of God (Yeah, Yes), and they were discussing the eternal meaning (Yes) of love. This stands out as a beautiful, beautiful thing for all generations. (Yes) Shakespeare had Horatio to say some beautiful words as he stood over the dead body of Hamlet. And today, as I stand over the remains of these beautiful, darling girls, I paraphrase the words of Shakespeare: (Yeah, Well): Good night, sweet princesses. Good night, those who symbolize a new day. (Yeah, Yes) And may the flight of angels (That's right) take thee to thy eternal rest. God bless you.