You are always a part of me, Mom. I lovel you!
Sometimes, we tend to find excuses for the things that don't work out for us. We tend to blame others instead of taking responsibility for our actions, which only elevates the excuses. This behavior also applies to standing up for what is right. We often remain silent and wait for someone else to take the initiative instead of holding ourselves accountable. "What's your excuse, now?" is about empowering ourselves to make choices that will help us feel comfortable and confident in our skin.
Friday, October 21, 2022
Monday, October 3, 2022
Missing You, Mother Bertha Louise Irby!
October 3, 2020 was your transition home, Mother Irby. You left a legacy behind. April talks about you everyday! She can't help it, you left such an impression on her that she still hears you. I know how proud you are of her, you did an outstanding job raising her. I'm grateful that you gave your approval of me. I felt it when you started calling me son-in-law during our dating. We love you and miss you. Thank you for interceding for us.
Friday, September 23, 2022
September 23, 2022 - Happy Anniversary, Babe!
10 years ago on this exact date, 2012, even very close to the same time, my future wife and I met at a senior citizen home. I knew our meeting was special, but had no idea that this woman was predestined to be my wife. (Reference: "Sunday was Fantastic and I Found Spring in the Fall! On The Elevator Ride That Changed My Life" published September 24, 2012 on this blog). She has helped me to grow spiritually and lovingly. I am grateful that we met. Loving her with the same intensity, I wish her the best and much love on our anniversary!
Tuesday, August 16, 2022
Who Have We Become?
I recently started researching my family tree so far, it’s been fascinating and frustrating. Fascinating, getting glimpses of the past and what my ancestors endured as slaves, sharecroppers and farmers. Frustrating, seeing how they persevered through the injustices, abuse, mistreatment and prejudices to make a better life for their families at the time. I really doubt that they saw the effects from their sufferings on future generations, for at the moment, it was more important to survive. I found how so many large families coped with farming buy using family members as help to survive. I also saw mixing with the owners resulting naming the offspring as mulattoes on the census. Thus, some family members decided passing as white and others who are actually white. There were many unkept records and misspelled names that I found as I dug deeper into my ancestral tree. What should have I expected from people that were not educated and census takers that didn’t care? In those days, people of color or mixed were not considered equal so why care when and where they were born. Not many records birth or death records were kept of them.
Research is like solving puzzles with pieces that look similar but doesn’t fit. Many people, black and white, had the same names but were from so many different regions. I got elated to find a piece but distracted when that puzzle piece took me to another source and that connection is a disappointment. What I am finding is that we are all related in some kind of way by even just a little bit of blood. We all are intertwined; we are all related and denounce our relationships because of race. Yes, we were taught it and experienced it. Even now, some of the very people that I descended from may very well be passing because it is a lot easier to bypass the abuse and discrimination set upon people of color. Why should we all go through this? Why should anyone go through this?
Look at our country now and the division it is experiencing. We are more related than we think but it is hard to see. What a shame. We’re better off not knowing each other because it’s easier to fear, destroy and hate what we don’t know. Recognizing the truth would be an embarrassment to our intelligence. After all, it’s not where we come from, it’s who we become.
Wednesday, August 3, 2022
Get Off the Boat!
Come Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus, reveal to me my thoughts and dreams. Why did I wake up with Peter on my mind leaving the boat for Jesus? Was it because he really wanted to do what Jesus is doing by walking on water? Was it for the thrill of being one of the first to ever have done this? Historically, Jesus and Peter were the only people to ever have accomplished the “impossible”. I question what drove Peter, faith or fame? The more I ask these questions, the more answers I get. Peter wasn’t seeking fame; he didn’t need it. He already had a business and extra boats, obviously, he was well known in the area. I’m thinking with an earthly mind. Socially, speaking recognition is important in today’s society. There are so many social network platforms on the internet that have members from multiple networks getting attention and followers. No fame, wasn’t it, fame can be temporary. Hero to zero can happen in seconds.
To me, staying on the boat is comfort, safe and secure. Why leave a place of stability and familiarity? The boat has certainty, it floats, it was built to hold itself together and could be steered to its destination fairly well even during storms. It was a shelter against storms. Why get out into the unknown, especially, if it hadn’t been done before? Since Peter confirmed that it was Jesus and received the invitation to come with him, was it that call that Peter put aside his fears? We all know that he was a fisherman, he wasn’t afraid of water and turbulent seas, he was experienced and respectful of rough seas. Yet, he was willing to jeopardize his life and fishing business to walk on water with Jesus. I need a revelation. What are you telling me Holy Spirit?
I think since Peter witnessed Jesus’ miracles, he wanted to be a part of it, to feel it. Peter could be foolish, but he wasn’t a fool. When he caught nothing the whole night and was tired, he listened to Jesus and placed his nets in deeper water (Luke 5:4-11). When Peter obeyed, it took his and another boat to get the fish to shore. He just witnessed the feeding of thousands, with only 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread (Matthew 14:16-21). Peter could act irrational and be quick tempered, but not a fool. Peter believed that if Jesus told him to walk on water, he could and he did. Peter’s faith at that moment was unquestionable as he walked on water towards Jesus. How much faith do I have when I have witnessed miracles in my own life and cried out when things didn’t change in my favor when I wanted them to? How strong is faith until tested by distractions?
When Peter took his eyes off Jesus and saw the waves driven by the strong wind reaching his knees, he panicked. He stopped believing and started to sink. He saw a threat and cried out for help from Jesus and received it from a waiting hand. Although Peter was lovingly reprimanded for his loss of faith and doubt (Matthew 14:22-32), Jesus still cared. He knows our weaknesses, always forgiving us and waiting patiently for us to take the risk to believe in Him. What if the odds are against us? Would we be willing to step out in faith? Of course, we are safe if we stay in the boat, but what if something happens to the boat? Are we experienced swimmers or water walkers? Can we handle unforeseen situations?
Even though my petition went full circle of leaving the boat, I get it now. Faith is taking a risk, believing in something unseen but hoping that it will accomplish what it was set out to do. Risk taking can be costly, it’s stepping into an unknown space an unfamiliar territory, possibly a dangerous but rewarding place. We won’t know if we don’t try. The unknown can be on so many levels. We take vacations, fly, drive, ride, shop, run walk, we don’t know the future or the possibilities if we stay on the boat and become complacent. I’m not sure if I would be any different than Peter. I’m not sure if I would even be in that situation. I do know that I pray for divine help when I’m afraid and anxious. I do know that Peter got out of that boat and faced his fears head on. Peter have been known to have said some foolish things but at that time he did not display any foolish behavior. He knew that it was Jesus in the water with him. Peter was a devout Jew who studied the scriptures. He might have remembered God’s Words to Joshua “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). Was this proof? When all was said and done, they evidently got back into the boat (Matthew 14: 32).
Epilogue
This evening, the dilemma with the “Boat” was clarified. While sitting in the waiting room at the hospital, I noticed a woman weeping. A nurse was handing her a box of tissues and sitting next to her. I thought to myself that I should pray for her, a stranger and a sister in Christ. My wife and I pray to be blessings to others as God would have us do. I thought it to be easier to pray for someone who doesn’t see me but to believe that I could be a help in a spiritual way. As I started to pray, I remembered my “Get Out of the Boat” dream. It seemed that I was literally being called out of my comfort zone and walk the distance to them. The Spirit kept repeating to me “Where two or more or gathered in my name…Matthew18:20”. I had to get off the boat and walk in faith. I heard that peaceful, quiet voice that told me “I will tell you what to pray, I will go with you.” I was having a Holy Moment and truly afraid of being rejected, leaving my comfort zone and doing something I have never done in my life. I am not a people person; I have trust issues. I think I am alright where I am. I even felt like Moses, why should he go speak to Pharoah, can’t someone else replace me?
I was shaking and tears began to fall from my eyes. I was fighting against a voice that I knew was telling me to “walk over there”, that’s your water. I tried to find excuses but I could not find any comfort in staying where I was. I was hoping that the nurse would leave but she didn’t, and I had to move.
I grabbed my book bag, got up and walked over there. I acknowledged them both but looked at the weeping woman and asked if I could pray for her. I told her that I have never done this in my life but was led by the Holy Spirit to pray for her. I prayed for Emily and during the entire time, I could not stop sobbing. I don’t remember a thing said except lift the burden. I gave her God’s blessing and left. When I returned to my seat. I realized that I got the revelation that I prayed for. Peter might have been afraid but he was confident and faithful enough to get off the boat. Seems to me that he believed and loved Jesus with all his heart, mind and soul.
To God, I give the glory and thanksgiving.
Wednesday, July 20, 2022
July 15, 2015 - July 15, 2022 - 7 Years!
It's hard to believe how fast time flies, but as we get older, we'll soon find out. We visited Tia last week and she resembles you so much. She has a mixture of Beverly and you in the face and form. Her anxiety seems to run in the family, she can't be still. Michael is a wonderful son-in-law. He seems to be very devoted, but he can't stop her when she has her mind made up on something. Even recuperting, she can't rest. I'm sure she tries but, like me, it's hard to stay still. The children have all grown up. The baby graduated from high school in May.
Teria has started an online business, My Oh Mai Bawdy, skincare products for men and women. The website address is: https://myohmaibawdy.com She's a hard worker. I need to touch bases with Devin. You know he looks like you.
We had our differences but I miss you. I love you, Austin. I miss you and mom. Keep praying for us. The world is changing rapidly, too fast to catch up.
Tuesday, April 26, 2022
Saturday, April 2, 2022
Happy Birthday, Robert Beck!
Your wife, Carolyn, surely misses you. We all miss you. Rest in Peace, Rob. Love always.
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Everyone Is Going Through Something!
Once again, the social network has found relief in an incident that involves black men by keeping the Will Smith and Chris Rock “slap” in the news every day since it happened at the Oscars. The Oscars has never been fair to people of color anyway. Usually, incidents involving people of color is in the middle or on the back page with one to two paragraphs. But these are two famously known black men. Now there are interviews from people who have never expressed themselves publicly deciding to speak out. I can recall Congressman Joe Wilson shouting to then President Obama “You lie” in the Halls of Congress getting shorter coverage. How about discussing more on the Supreme Court hearing with Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. How nasty was the senators treating her? It’s better news keeping people divided with race coverage. Negative news sell. People get richer off other people troubles! Social networks find positivity, period!
Sunday, March 27, 2022
Miss you, Moms! And Happy Birthday, Momma Irby!
Hello, mom. March 24th passed quietly. You would have been 91 in 2021. Time flies. Momma Irby's birthday is today, Sunday the 27th, she would have been 88. We miss you both and love you so much!
Tuesday, January 4, 2022
2022!
Congratulations! Happy New Year! We made it to another year. The past couple of years had plenty of challenges to deal with. Since we survived the political, mental, physical, natural storms and pandemics and national divisions, I believe we did it with divine help and not on our own. We lost a lot of family and friends this past year in 2021. I mean, some of them were very close. Too many to count. Not all of them were due to the pandemic. Strokes, cancer, accidents natural causes and other situations still exist. Where do we go from here? There is so much disinformation and lies surrounding us that we don’t know who or what to believe. I will always believe social medias are playing major roles in causing confusion for its followers. America seems to be an easy target for those who want to destroy us. We are being used as pawns in a master scheme of things and don’t know it. Someone is benefitting from this bitterness, anger and hatred. Whether it is being done for money, insanity or just for the pure pleasure, there are people who enjoy watching a mighty country sink. What can we do? Well, we can be more respectful to each other and understanding. It’s not much but a beginning. We need to put our trust in God and if you do not believe, then find a divine creator other than man or woman to believe in. All I know is that we can do better and be better as a people.
Friday, November 26, 2021
Happy Grace Day!
Yesterday was national Thanksgiving Day. Macy's Thanksgiving Parade was back on TV since Covid shut it down last year. Several major department and grocery stores were closed. Families and friends got together to share food and fellowship .Sports fanatics shared wins or losses of their favorite teams most of the day. What a day for many or a reason for some not to celebrate. My experience yesterday was joy and grace. I was among those who because of deaths of loved one and failed relationships had nothing to celebrate. I should have been grateful to even be alive but misery, solitude and denial always won the fight. For several years, I was comfortable being alone. I wasn't caught up in self-pity, I just didn't want to be bothered or obligated to anyone. Thanksgiving was just another day. Until, my wife changed the script. I have learned what forgiveness and mercy and compassion can do for my spirit. She never fails to surprise me. I celebrated the day with her family, cousins and friends. The fact is, she and I prepared the meal from scratch and desserts were supplied by her cousins. I was truly impressed with energetic Milly, a three year child who ran all over the house and backyard. She immediately welcomed herself in our home. We had more than enough of everything. I talked a big game about being glad when it's over before it started. Yet, at the end I regretted not being able to take pictures of everyone. We were exhausted when the dinner and games were over but realized just how blessed we were. It's easier to find the worse in ourselves, we're surrounded by negativity in and on the air. It's a fight every day. I started searching for grace and found it. I'm not saying its the cure-all. But, it sure helped me peep over the hole I dug for myself. I hope you find grace everyday and be thankful for each one.
Friday, October 29, 2021
Thursday, October 21, 2021
Sunday, October 3, 2021
One Year Later, Mother Irby!
October 3, 2020, the date you went back home, Mother Irby. One year later and we all are mourning your transition. We know it's for the better, but we still miss you. It's still tough on your girls, they are dealing with it in their own way. I sincerely believe that you all are interceding for us. We need all the prayers we can get. Love you.
Thursday, September 30, 2021
My Cousin's Thanksgiving Day Settings!!!
Saturday, July 24, 2021
We Miss You, Austin! God Bless You!
July 24, 2015. It's been 6 years since your transition, brother. You are surely missed. I spoke with your children this week and sent them a few pictures of you from your junior and senior yearbooks. I saw you in your NJROTC uniform for the first time and you really looked good. Devin commented how much he looked like you in your younger days. We all knew that already. Tia looks like you, too. Teria, took after her mom but has your personality. BTW, her daughter Mai, is cute as a button. She will be a year old on August 7th. Of course, you may already be aware of all of this, I don't know. Nevertheless, we miss you and send our love.
Friday, July 23, 2021
Tuesday, May 18, 2021
RIP Barry Singleton, July 27, 1965 to May 15, 2021
Barry Steven Singleton, 55 went home to be with the Lord on May 15, 2021 at Wake medical center he was the husband of Josephine Singleton they cherished 24 years of marriage together
Born in Anderson South Carolina he was the son of Lottie Singleton. He was raised by his three aunts Margaret Green Patterson, Willie Rae Saylors, and Pearlina Elizabeth Hill. He attended Catholic School, McCants Middle School, and graduated class of '84 at T.L. Hannah high School where he played saxophone in the marching band. At the age of 21 Barry moved to Raleigh North Carolina. He worked as a electrician and Foreman over 15 years with Bolton corporation and also worked at Lowe's for 5 years.
He was a devout member of Mount Zion in Cary North Carolina for over 30 years serving in Media Ministry, I.T Ministry, Missionary Ministry, Youth Ministry, and teaching Sunday School. On the 10th day of November 2013 Barry followed his calling and put faith in God by completing his sermon becoming an Evangelist.
He was predeceased by Lottie Singleton (mother), Willie Ray Saylors (Aunt), Pearlina Elizabeth Hill (Aunt), Joe Hill (Uncle), Joe Morris Singleton (Uncle), Herman "knot" Patterson (uncle).
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Josephine Singleton, two daughters Shannon Singleton and Elizabeth Singleton, four grandchildren Kylee, August, Noire, and one on the way. Three sister in laws Inell (Kenneth) Duncan, Shelby (Badr) Seffar and Sandy Montgomery. Àunt Margaret Green Patterson of Anderson SC and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and church family.
Sunday, April 18, 2021
Romans, Chapter 1, Verses 18-34 (Please Read)
Times are tough right now and we are witnessing what has been written centuries ago. Indeed, mankind has not changed too much. It will not get much better if the churches can not agree on inclusion. As long as they remain divisive, so will I nation. We have left the Creator out of lives and rely on our independence of being successful. Forgetting that we are branches connected to the vine.
As you know, we are living in unprecedented times which require unprecedented patience and trust. There are those, not all, in law enforcement that are fearful of people of color and have been impressed by those in politics that it is acceptable to display their divisive nature. Trust your intuitions at all times and rely on them at appropriate moments. We have a bigger responsibility to our Creator and family. Don’t get caught up in keeping in 100. We will get through this. We are already dealing with the pandemic. We will get through this. Watch As It Turns. (WAIT). Remain committed, persevere and be patience. Be anxious for nothing.
Thursday, March 25, 2021
Tuesday, March 2, 2021
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Wednesday, October 21, 2020
Saturday, October 3, 2020
Thursday, July 30, 2020
RIP, Jonathan Litman!
Jonathan Litman, age 59, of 508 Jefferson Avenue, Anderson, SC departed this life on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at the Rainey Hospice of the Upstate.
Mr. Litman was preceded in death by his parents, Robert, Sr. and Willie Lee Crosby-Litman; paternal grandparents, Elijah Litman and Janie R. Mitchell- Litman; and maternal grandparents, Kale and Hattie Brown-Crosby.
A Celebration of Life for Mr. Litman will be held on Monday, August 3, 2020 at 3:00 pm at the W.I. Peek-F.W.Jackson Memorial Chapel of the Unity Mortuary of Anderson with Reverend James F. Blanding, officiating.
Friday, July 24, 2020
5 Years Since Your Transition, Austin!
Saturday, July 11, 2020
Farewell, My Brother, My Friend!
Friday, May 15, 2020
And So It Goes...!
Sunday, May 10, 2020
Happy Mother's Day To All Moms, Past, Present and Future!!!
Always in my prayers, Dorothy and Harold!
Saturday, May 9, 2020
Remembering Bobby!
Dorothy and Harold, you are in my prayers.
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Friday, April 17, 2020
Frustration!!!
Sunday, April 12, 2020
Happy Easter!!!
Dorothy and Harold, you are always in my prayers.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Where Does Our Help Comes From?
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
Ephesians 6:12. The Many Versions Mean The Same Thing!
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