Beauty Talk Illustrated

PREMIER EDITION www.beautytalkillustrated.com

Dr.

SYLVIA

CAMPBELL Surgeon and Humanitarian

Sharing God’s Love One Village at a Time

PraiseAnista An Exclusive Interview with Carol Riccio

STATE OF DENIAL

STEPS TO RECOVERY

Five Stages to Accept Your Child’s Development Faces of Faith

COLLEGE GLAM GIRLS

Lindsay Burnley Ardonna Hamilton LaCameya Roper Mallory Washington

When God Revealed He Loved Me

SPRING 2012

Develop and Strengthen Your Spirit, Soul and Body

PUBLISHER Ida Walker

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Lisa Landers Janelle McGregor Michele Miles LaTia Wright

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Sylvia Campbell, MD Allison Smith, US Army Retired Monica Carter Elisheva Morgan Williams

B E A U T Y TA L K I L L U S T R AT E D H A S A R R IV E D !

Elizabeth Stewart Regina Walker

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Sonia Franklin

I am so very excited to introduce to you BEAUTY TALK ILLUSTRATED – an exclusive online digital magazine that

COLLEGE GLAM GIRLS

highlights the inner beauty of today’s Christian woman. “Her

Lindsay Burnley

uniqueness is God’s seal of approval - His signature influ-

ArDonna Hamilton

ences her exceptional beauty.”TM

LaCameya Roper Mallory Washington

The woman of faith is confident, inspirational, influential,

DIRECTOR OF GLAM

sufficient grace. She lights the path from the trenches

lovely, and kind. Her essence is brilliant and shines with

Stephanie Jackson

to the red carpet. She’s amazing and captivating; a

PHOTOGRAPHER

In Beauty Talk Illustrated’s premiere edition, you will enjoy

Jimi Walker

Graphic design Amir DaBiri - DaBiri Designs

REACH US We would love to hear from you.

Any comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Your thoughts and input are always appreciated.

For general inquiries or to submit a letter to the Publisher, mail letters to FaithWalk Publications or send an email to ida@beautytalkillustrated.com Please visit our website at www.beautytalkillustrated.com Beauty Talk Illustrated is a quarterly online digital Christian woman’s magazine, published by FaithWalk Publications, Inc. We have built a reputation on integrity and professionalism. Beauty Talk Illustrated makes every effort to ensure accuracy, but we cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors.

PRAISEANISTATM whose lifestyle reflects her love of God. an inspiring dialogue with our first PRAISEANISTA, Carol Riccio, as she shares “When God Revealed He Loved Me.” We also put the spotlight on Tampa Bay & Company’s National Sales Manager, Sherri Brown, in Nine2Five.

BEAUTY TALK ILLUSTRATED is a ministry that spotlights the vitality of Christian women living an exhilarating lifestyle indicative of a woman after God’s heart. We found this to be the case when we interviewed Tampa surgeon and humanitarian, Dr. Sylvia Campbell. On page 6, we hope you enjoy reading our featured story as much as we did writing it. It’s simple, yet amazing how miracles happen when we share God’s love with others, as Dr. Campbell does one village at a time.

Our positive articles reveal the splendor that is reflective of women who are passionate about representing God in their daily lives. Whether you are a daughter, sister, wife, or mother facing daily challenges or at the pinnacle of success, our articles will inspire, encourage and empower. You see, the beauty is in the illustration and we will talk about it; and it is exactly what our contributor writers are doing as they share their gifts of writing with you. Chantele Cudger, Sonia Franklin, Regina Thomas, Allison Smith, Elisheva Williams, and our College GLAM Girls, thank you!

Living a Christian lifestyle represents who we are to the world. We encourage you to not only live the lifestyle but be “A Lifestyle of Today’s Christian Woman.”

Take a look inside to begin an eternally fascinating lifestyle of Christian living.

In Peace and Love,

No portion of this publication may be published without written permission.

Beauty Talk Illustrated Copyright 2012, All Rights Reserved.

Ida Walker Publisher

contents 6 INSPIRE (ON THE COVER)

Dr. Sylvia Campbell, MD Surgeon and Humanitarian - God gave her gifted hands and she’s using them to share His love, one village at a time.

10 REFLECTIONS OF GRACE

page 6

By Chantele Cudger Mirror, Mirror on the wall it doesn’t matter if I’m the fairest of all – I am marvelously made by God!

15 ENCOURAGE Life of a PraiseAnista - When God Revealed He Loved Me! Carol Riccio, energetic and on fire for the Lord, takes God’s calling to a higher level, literally.

She is a leadership prayer warrior, who goes to battle (spiritually) every day for the heads of local, state, and federal government agencies.

20 SPOTLIGHT Nine2Five

page 10

Sherri Brown, National Sales Manager, Tampa Bay & Company

22 TO BE TO BECOMING

By Elisheva Morgan Williams Dreams - can you still see the beauty in yours?

page 22

page 28

24 COLLEGE GLAM GIRLS Introduction of College GLAM Girls: Godly and Motivated Students on Campus Lindsay Burnley, University of South Florida ArDonna Hamilton, University of Virginia LaCameya Roper, Texas Wesleyan University Mallory Washington, University of Florida

28 EMPOWER Triune Fitness by Allison Smith As Triune beings we are made up of three components: our spirit, our physical body, and our soul.

page 31 “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”

Ephesians 4:29 NKJV

31 STATE OF DENIAL: STEPS TO RECOVERY

By Regina Thomas Five Stages to Understand Your Child’s Development

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BEAUTY: The quality or aggregate of qualities in a person or thing that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit. TALK: To deliver or express in speech and to convey information or communicate in any way. ILLUSTRATED: To give an example or instance. To illustrate is to make clear by giving or by serving as an example or instance to enlighten and show clearly.

Advertising: Beauty Talk Illustrated is a quarterly publication. You may request a media kit by contacting a representative at advertise@beautytalkillustrated.com Contact the Writer: Information is listed in the contributor’s biographical data on page 35.

P.O. Box 1168 Brandon, FL 33509 Telephone: (813) 784-3345 www.beautytalkillustrated.com

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inspire to influence • move • guide by divine or supernatural A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

John 13:34-35 ESV

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Dr. Campbell cares for a baby from Uganda.

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F E AT U R E

SHARING GOD’S LOVE ONE VILLAGE AT A TIME

...from the Florida Coast, south to the mountains of Haiti and east to the villages of Africa.

By Ida Walker

F

irst impressions last a lifetime, and upon meeting Dr. Sylvia Campbell you instantly notice something truly special – a sweet compassionate spirit while in her presence.

This comes as no surprise to the many people whose lives she has touched over the years. She is often characterized by her patients as an angel with an awesome bedside manner.

Dr. Campbell is a well-respected and accomplished surgeon that comes highly recommended as a medical professional. Her extraordinary ability to successfully balance all aspects of her life draws the kind of admiration that reflects the love of God and her willingness to share it with others. This is why we are elated to have the pleasure of featuring Dr. Sylvia Campbell in the premiere edition of Beauty Talk Illustrated magazine.

As a child growing up on the east coast of Florida, Dr. Campbell and her family loved nature and relished the magnificence of God’s creation. They spent a lot

of time outside, enjoying the water and wilderness of old Florida. So, as an adult it was only natural for the Campbell family to spend many summer vacations at the beach, watching sunsets and enjoying time together. It is obvious that family is very important to Dr. Campbell - her husband, Bob, and three children bring a harmonious balance to her full life. “My family is my strength and my support, loving me unconditionally. They have opened my eyes and my heart to others in ways that I cannot fully express, and I am so grateful they have each been part of my life,” said Dr. Campbell.

She has always liked working with people and learned early that helping others gave her complete satisfaction. There was no doubt that someday she would become a doctor, but not just an ordinary physician or even one that is purely represented by many specialties, degrees, accomplishments or accolades. Yes, she has earned many achievements and awards and, if expressed in a childlike manner, she actually has a gazillion. The success she has achieved is most certainly deserving

of the highest acknowledgement and would definitely make a fine story. But, there is one thing in particular that shines above all others and attracted the attention of Beauty Talk Illustrated to share her exceptional story; it is her humility and endless compassion for people.

The aforementioned perceptions of Dr. Campbell became reality during our interview; she consistently deflected any credit or praise from herself and instead made it clear that God, members of her church, Palma Ceia Presbyterian, and others deserved all accolades. None of what she does is alone.

When asked how she uses her Godgiven gifts to inspire others, her answer was simple, “I believe that by our actions, God’s message is taught for they keep speaking even when we are gone. I have been given so much and I pray that I can return a little to others.” She has done just that and much more. The talents God has placed in her hands reach from the Florida coast, south to the mountains of Haiti and east to the villages of Africa.

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F E AT U R E It all started in 1980, during her residency at the University of South Florida, when she began her services at the Judeo Christian Health Clinic, a free health center for the medically indigent.

She has served in several aspects of the clinic and is currently the President of the Board of Directors.

In 1996, her mission took another path - to the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, Haiti. Dr. Campbell and a group of volunteers from her church visited a small mountain village called Mombin Crochu. On their journey, they witnessed poverty at its core; a death cloud seemed to linger over this tiny village. In Haiti, access to medical care was practically non-existent in many of the small villages lacking infrastructure.

Medical care was only available for those that could afford it and villagers in Mombin Crochu did not possess this privilege.

The humanitarian team from Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church were determined to change this reality for the people and, by the grace of God, bring hope – one person, one child, one village at a time.

It was through this concept that Village Partners International (VPI) was created.

Dr. Campbell serves as the President of the Board of Directors. She has written articles about humanitarian missions, which have touched the lives of people living in countries that lack the basic necessities most often enjoyed outside of their world. Read more at (www.villagepartnersinternational.org).

after traveling up the mountain to bring her young son to the camp for help. He had fallen into an open fire pit and burned over 35 percent of his body. No improvising could help this little one.

They knew instantly something had to be done and soon or he would surely die.

They had no way of treating such severe burns. This child needed the type of care

“God puts doors in front of us. It is up to us to decide if we wish to walk through them. But if we do, we will discover amazing and beautiful gifts that fill our hearts with the peace and love that only He can give.” available in the United States’ burn units.

A miracle began to unfold as the medical team jumped into action. There was no access to a telephone and the only communication was a CB radio with a bent antenna. It was ruined or so it seemed, until a nurse climbed to the top of a pole with the antenna, trying to straighten it.

She was successful and able to reach the Regional Medical Benevolence Foundation, who helped coordinate travel arrangements, including Customs’

In these poverty-stricken countries, VPI members work through poor conditions often using non-standard techniques to improvise for the inadequate surgical instruments available for the surgeries they perform. In Haiti, it did not take long for the villagers to develop trust in this humanitarian crew who were there to offer not only a cure for ailments, but healing for dying souls.

During one of Dr. Campbell’s visits, she was conducting surgery in a make-shift operating room when a mother arrived

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approvals. The next major hurdle was to convince the mother and family to allow the team to take this little one far away to another country with the knowledge that he may never return. The presence of faith was evident; it allowed room for the miracle. Despite the language barrier, the family understood and agreed to place their child in the hands of the strangers they had come to trust. The medical team

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arranged for a UN helicopter to transport him to Tampa General Hospital’s Burn Unit, where doctors performed surgery on this young lad. After weeks of recovery he returned to Haiti to a grateful family waiting with love.

Several years later, Martha Kawala, a young girl from the village of Papoli, Uganda, heard about Dr. Sylvia Campbell saving the life of a boy in Haiti. Martha was diagnosed with a life threatening condition that could not be treated in Africa.

Determined, she walked eight miles to an internet café to send an email to Dr. Campbell asking her for help. Through local contacts and with the assistance from her pastor and church, Dr. Campbell arranged for transportation and surgery for Martha...saving her life.

Martha returned home and now works with Village Partners International to improve the living standards in Papoli. The children in this small village no longer attend school outside underneath a tree as in the Portrait in the background was painted by Dr. Campbell’s daughter, Meaghan. She was inspired by a photo of her mother treating a baby, while another child peers through the window. It adorns a wall in her office.

F E AT U R E past, but in a facility that bears the name - Dr. Sylvia Campbell Education Center.

There are two schools represented at the center and each weekend the classrooms are converted into Sunday school classes taught by a local church. VPI is clearly achieving its vision to develop a healthier, lively environment by imparting rays of hope in poor communities with a profound need for assistance.

Dr. Campbell continues to run a successful medical practice in Tampa. She contributes countless hours volunteering her service to the medical profession, charitable organizations, servicing the poor, or wherever God opens a door for His love to be expressed.

She explained it perfectly when asked what she hoped Beauty Talk Illustrated’s readers would appreciate after reading this article: “God puts doors in front of us. It is up to us to decide if we wish to

Left: The Primary School serves more than 700 students in grades 1 - 7.

Bottom: Rev. John DeBevoise, Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, feeding children in the village of Papoli, Uganda

walk through them. But if we do, we will discover amazing and beautiful gifts that fill our hearts with the peace and love that only He can give.”

Medicine is a ministry and like a good steward, Dr. Campbell uses it to glorify God. He blessed her with gifted hands and she is using them to share His love, one village at a time. It was no surprise when asked what your biggest achievement is and Dr. Campbell declared, “When one person reaches out for my hand and says, ‘thank you.’” ▣

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10, KJV.

S I X Q U E S T I O N S , S I X I N S P I R I N G A N S W E R S . . . B Y D R . S Y LV I A C A M P B E L L

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What makes you happy?

I love my work, I love my friends, I love my family, I love sitting in nature and just watching the life around me. I love being quiet and spending sacred time alone. I think happiness is something that is found within and can be brought into any situation, as it is part of you.

2 3

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Do not ever let anyone tell you that you cannot follow your dream. If it is your dream, you will somehow make it reality.

What is your favorite scripture?

It changes as I change and today it is Colossians 3:12-17, “… clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect harmony…”

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Your patients have tremendous respect for you. What is it you do special to make your patients feel comfortable?

My patients are my friends and I love them. They have placed their trust in me, and it is my job to try and carry them through a time that may be so hard and so dark. Each person has their own unique story. We must listen to what they are really saying...not only with their words. Medicine is a ministry and I am given so much by the wonderful people I am privileged to walk this journey with.

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What role does your faith play in overcoming any challenges in practicing medicine?

I cannot imagine being a doctor and not having faith. To heal someone, you must heal the body, mind and soul - not just the body.

Sometimes you are not able to . . . but if you can help someone reach a place of peace, it may be all you can do. It would be difficult to walk this path without God’s support; it would be an empty and lonely path.

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How can we help Village Partners International accomplish its mission?

Your prayers and support – the website has more information (www.villagepartnersinternational.org).

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I thank you, High God-you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration-what a creation! (Psalm 139:14 The Message)

REFLEC T I O N S OF G R ACE

By Chantele Cudger

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REFLECTIONS OF GRACE

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can recall Walt Disney’s popular tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in which the vain and wicked Queen would often ask her magical mirror, “Mirror, mirror on the wall who in the land is fairest of all?”

The mirror always responded to the Queen’s advantage in telling her she was the fairest in the land. One day the Queen, however, was finally faced with an unsuspecting dose of reality when instead her mirror replies, “Queen you are full fair, ‘tis true, but Snow White is fairer than you.”

From that moment forward the Queen did all she could to rid the land of Snow White so she could reclaim her title as the land’s fairest maiden.

Much like the Queen, if we aren’t careful, we too can find ourselves doing whatever it takes to remain beautiful by the standards of others or by standards that we have set for ourselves.

Though I am a Christian, even I sometimes find that I still compare myself to others for countless reasons. As women in today’s society, it’s easy to lose sight of who God esteems us to be. Sometimes I find that I still compare myself to others for countless reasons.

Their waist is smaller, their hair is more beautiful, they are more educated, God gave them better gifts and talents - and the list goes on and on!

Due to these insecurities, I have often found the Lord’s unquestionable reassurances of who I am somehow lost in a shuffle of beautiful faces on the TV screen, flawless figures in magazines, along with all of the superficial glitz and glamour that the media has to offer.

Recently I was having one of those

days where I wasn’t pleased with the overweight, slowly aging 32-year old image that was staring back at me in the mirror.

My dark, curly, usually manageable hair wouldn’t cooperate; my teeth weren’t straight enough, and my hips were too big! Do you get the picture ladies? One of those days!

Oftentimes the things we allow ourselves to be entertained by have a much greater impact on us than we would want to admit.

God’s true vision of us can easily become drowned out by unhealthy relationships, envy of others, past experiences, and a plethora of other circumstances causing us to negatively redefine ourselves.

Instead of looking at myself through the eyes of the One who created me, I allowed my view to be limited to the world’s standards. Yet in the midst of my melodramatic episode, God took the time to remind me of some things that He treasures about me. The Father advised that I not complain, but rather to rejoice in knowing that my body and soul were marvelously made! (Psalm 139:14)

When we compare ourselves to others, the Master’s hand drawn sketch of us is now marred by shallow words and thoughts about how we see ourselves. By the grace of God, we are who we are and that is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of (1 Corinthians 15:10).

We were uniquely crafted by the Master’s hands and in His divine image (Genesis 1:26-27). When we criticize ourselves we criticize His creation. To complain and to depreciate the value of who our Creator has purposed us to be is to say that His creation is flawed.

“I am a reflection of God’s grace!”

To dare to believe that we know what is better for ourselves than God does, means we believe that He is not perfect and all knowing regarding what is best for us.

When I took on the perspective of seeing myself from the Master’s viewpoint, I couldn’t help being reminded of the age old question that God posed to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden when they had hidden themselves from Him (Genesis 3:9-11).

What God was basically asking me was, “Who told you those things? Who have you been talking to? With whom have you taken counsel concerning My creation?“

Reaching this point of contentment is no easy task! We have to be determined to spend time studying the Word, so that we are reassured moment by moment of how precious we are in the Father’s sight.

Also asking the Lord to allow His words of truth to take root in our heart so that we are able to receive them, believe them, but most importantly walk in them.

We have to also consistently spend just as much time in prayer, and not necessarily doing all of the talking, rather listening and taking the opportunity to allow the Lord to minister to us. Hearing what He has to say about the way He envisions our heart, mind, body, and soul.

We also have to take full responsibility regarding our speech, thoughts, and actions - speaking God’s words over ourselves. Also being more mindful of the types of relationships we permit ourselves to be in. Instead of becoming consumed by negative partnerships, I began to surround myself with people who saw what God saw in me.

Playing the blame game is not allowed - using negative things said to us by others as excuses for our own poor attitude about ourselves. If we are not careful about the things that we say ▶

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REFLECTIONS OF GRACE

and think, we become our own worst enemy.

Who we esteem ourselves to be is simply a matter of the heart (Luke 6:45). Therefore, we must be passionate in our pursuit of God, praying and asking Him to purge us of negative and shameful things that would hinder us from having the view that He holds.

image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27 NIV).

I am a reflection of God’s grace! “But by the grace of God I am what I am...” (I Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship God in adoration, for I am His awesome creation! “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalms 139:14 NIV).

SOUL SEARCH What negative influences have you allowed to mar God’s view of you?

What personal and spiritual changes can you begin making in striving to accept the unique and beautiful woman that God has created you to be?

It is then that we can arise each morning, look into the mirror and say, “You know what, I am the righteousness of God! I was created in His perfect image and anyone who sees me is beholding the beauty of the Lord! I am not too big. I am not too thin. I am not too inadequate. I am a reflection of the glory and the grace of God!” Who we are on the outside holds no candle to all of the beauty, courage, love, strength, and wisdom that our Creator has deposited on the inside of us.

Standing in front of the mirror and reflecting on Psalms 139:14 and I Corinthians 15:10, list at least seven positive things about youself. The list can include both inner and outer qualities. Then repeat aloud the three phrases listed under Points to Ponder.

“When we criticize ourselves we criticize His creation.”

When we become content with simply being His we have come to a place in which we can live each day enjoying who we are in Him, walking in the word of truth, now seeing ourselves through His eyes.

All in all, I thank God for turning my mood-swing-Monday into an opportunity for Him to reveal himself to me. In doing so, I am now able to rejoice in the fact that I am His. And when He looks at me, because I am covered in the precious blood of Jesus, and because He created me, my beauty is beyond measure.

Points to Ponder I am uniquely crafted by the Master’s hands and in His divine image! “So God created mankind in his own image, in the

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Count Your Blessings

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Prayer

Father God I praise you because I was carefully and lovingly made! Create in me a clean and pure heart so that I can begin to see myself as You see me. Guard the doors of my lips and be the keeper of my tongue that I may not discredit or depreciate the value of the awesome creation that is me. I honor and adore You because I am a reflection of Your divine grace.▣ Chantelle Cudger, Copyright 2009, All Rights Reserved.

Chantelle currently resides in Atlanta where she has actively served in her church’s Preschool Ministry, local out reach, and international short-term missons. The Georgia native is the sixth of eleven siblings and holds her family close to her heart. You may contact Chantelle at sherai78@yahoo.com.

KICK OFF YOUR DANCING SHOES

Take 30 and relax!

Life will have you dancing through hoops, race tracks and battlefields leading you down a road to destruction – if you let it!

4 Ways to Lighten the Load and Rejuvenate!

Fruit-infused water: A refreshing drink of cool water is very soothing. Add fresh slices of strawberries, oranges, lemons and limes to a glass pitcher filled with water and chill. You will enjoy a healthy splash of flavor.

Take Deep Breaths: Close your eyes and take a couple deep breaths. Place a warm lavender pillow across your eyes to feel an added calming effect.

Aromatherapy foot soak: Treat yourself to a basin of warm water and add your favorite herbs (rosemary, chamomile, thyme, peppermint or green tea) to soothe aching feet.

Have a little talk with Jesus: Tell him all about your troubles. He will hear your faintest cry and answer by and by. Release your cares of the day upon Him.

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encourage to inspire with courage • spirit • hope I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Phillipians 4:13 (NKJV)

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WHEN GOD REVEALED HE LOVED ME!

Nothing is more exhilarating than a woman who is head-over-heels about God. This is what I experienced the first time meeting Carol Riccio.

By Ida Walker

LEFT Carol expresses appreciation to the honorees.

RIGHT Carol presents gifts of love to the leaders and their family.

PRAISEANISTA

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WAS LIKE “WHOA, IS THIS LADY FOR REAL?” It did not take long, however, to recognize the spiritual passion she so eagerly shares is the result of her intimacy with God. She is His biggest fan and cheerleader; nothing less is expected whenever you’re in her presence. The beauty of her excitement filters over to the beneficiaries of her relentless prayer life. Yes, Carol Riccio is a leadership prayer warrior and Beauty Talk Illustrated’s first PraiseAnista!

Thirteen years ago, during a women’s prayer breakfast, a youth pastor approached Carol and encouraged her to participate in the church’s Adopt-a-Leader program. She would assume the role of praying for government

officials in leadership positions. “How was this going to be possible,” Carol thought. She didn’t know anyone in these positions, but the reality was God would be the one to make the connections. Indeed, it was exactly what He did – Carol started out with one and now prays for over 180 government officials often penning letters to each of them.

It started with Pasco County (Florida) Commissioner Pat Mulieri, then Tampa Police Chief Bennie Holder. When we contacted Commissioner Mulieri she was pleased to give a comment about Carol, who has been her prayer warrior since 1998. “Carol has taught me that all is in God’s hands. She always sends proverbs and passages that are usually appropriate to my needs. My favorite Proverb is 16:3 “Roll your works

upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him...] so shall your plans be established and succeed.” Today, Carol prays for judges, senators, police chiefs, sheriffs, school board members and their families.

Every year the Sunday following National Day of Prayer, Pastor Ed Russo and the Victorious Life Church, invites the leaders and their families to a special service and the entire church congregation prays for them.

“In my opinion it is important for leaders to have a support network around them; these individuals provide prayer and encouragement for the leader,” says Pastor Russo. “In recent years, Carol Riccio has provided such support not only to me but also for dozens and dozens of leaders across the nation.

Her prayers and notes of encouragement ▶

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have been a great source of strength and support,” he continued.

Carol dedicates countless hours in prayer for her adopted leaders. Their names are pleasantly etched on her heart, as she joyfully brings them to the altar each day. When she’s not praying, Carol is often found encouraging others to trust God completely and learn to listen to His voice, even the gentle whisper that can be heard as He faithfully silences the storms in life.

Recently, we sat down with Carol for an exclusive interview that is filled with inspiration and encouragement.

Let’s take a peek into the life of a PraiseAnista.

Tell us a little about yourself Well, my name is Carol Riccio. I am 66 years old. I was born and raised in Bayonne, New Jersey. I attended Holy Family Academy High School for girls. I fell in love with the most wonderful man name James Riccio. I prayed before we got married and asked God to either make it or break it. I saw so many of my friends married and divorced months later. TO GOD BE THE GLORY, WE HAVE BEEN MARRIED 47 YEARS! Tells us about your family.

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My dad was a policeman and my mom was a stay-athome mom. I had two brothers, Sonny and Tommy. My wonderful husband Jim is a retired Battalion Chief from Bayonne Fire Department and now working at Busch Gardens. We have four children: Jimmy is a deputy chief of the Brick Police Department, New Jersey; our daughter, Darlene, works for Ocean County, New Jersey; Nick, works for UPS in Tampa, Florida; and Domonic, is a manager for Rooms to Go in Katy, Texas. We are blessed with 11 grandchildren (two are in Heaven).

What is your favorite color and why? White and Pink – I love to look and feel feminine.

What is one thing you would say people don’t know about you?

How I cry and cry out to the Lord to trust His ways above my own. For Him to crucify my flesh as I give Him my will and pride, so I don’t hinder His love from flowing through me for others … He has in His mercy overcome judgment against me.

What makes you happy?

When I am filled with the Lord’s presence.

What makes you sad?

“

When God revealed He loved me, Carol Riccio, I became a new creation.

What is your favorite food?

Oh, this is hard. I love veal cutlet, mashed potatoes, my stuffing, veggies and cranberry sauce.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy making baby bibs with Biblical words on each one. Example: “Jesus Loves Me.” What is your favorite thing to do with your children/grandchildren?

I love to listen and do what I can to make each one feel special and valuable. Encourage each one with the love of God with both my actions and character.

What do you do to relax and rejuvenate?

I relax by first writing all my thoughts and cares unto the Lord in my journal, then wait for His response and His Word to rejuvenate me.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love to play hand and foot card games with my husband, Jim; going down to Sarasota,

Florida to shop at Armand’s Circle and eat at the Columbia Restaurant; and walk the beach with my sister-in-Christ and friend, JoAnn. Where is your favorite vacation spot?

The mountains at Glacier National Park in Montana.

How has your upbringing contributed to your faith?

Well, this may sound silly, but my dad was very strict when it came to writing. He would rip up my pages if I looped the letter “t,” and also if I put the line down on a “4”, instead of in the middle. I hated it then. Now I truly believe with all my heart that it was God’s way of preparing me to write everyday in my journal.

My dad also had great relationships with the priests, which I believe to this day helped my relationship with God be so childlike.

“

When I hear words of criticism.

TOP LEFT Carol expresses appreciation to the honorees.

TOP CENTER After the National Day of Prayer church service, leaders gather for a special dinner in their honor.

Do you have a personal, spiritual or professional goal that you have not achieved yet?

All I have, all I want, all I hope to be I already am in Jesus Christ! ▶ S P R I N G 2 0 1 2 B E A U T Y TA L K I L L U S T R AT E D

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Please share: Jesus said, “I am the Vine, you are the branches … apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). My heart’s desire is to glorify Him and to love others as He has loved me. On my own, this could never happen; but with Him and because of the love He has for me, I can rely on His love to flow through me even to those who don’t love me.

What issues do you struggle with and how do you handle it?

I struggle when I try to be in control of a situation – when what I want doesn’t happen. I handle it by crying out to God either in my journal or on my face - listening to His Words, “Carol, what you want is My will for you, as long as what you want doesn’t have you.” Then, I repent, ask His forgiveness and pray He bless me with a greater intense fear of the Lord. So, when I FEAR Him all I will care about is Him, and all I will want is Him and His way above my own.

prayer and sharing with Him all, and I mean all, that’s on the mind of your heart. Take to Him all your what ifs; all your fears; all your choices; all your decisions; all your relationships; all you can’t stand – whatever it is … be open with God, admitting your weaknesses so you can witness His promise in your life.

When you are the weakest, He is with you the strongest. His power is best revealed when you are weak in human strength; you can be strong in Him, who grows not weary.

His final answer! YIPPEE! Compare where you were then and where you are now. How would you categorize your salvation today?

I’m alive in Him. All that matters is Him. In His Word it is written, “Sense and reasoning trying to figure things out on my own leads to death - for then my eyes have departed from His Word back to looking at myself instead of walking in faith, which pleases Him. In your own words, what is your definition of praise and worship?

PRAISE to me is adoration, complimenting God always for a job well done; how He worked together for good every single part of my life; applauding Him for His mercy, forgiveness and love. WORSHIP to me is walking in the Fear of the Lord; honoring Him and putting Him first. It is best revealed in Romans 12:1 (Amplified Bible), “I Appeal to you therefore brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God to MAKE A DECISIVE DEDICATION of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy, (devoted consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service and spiritual worship.” Not wanting my way above His – that to me is worship at its highest. It’s not only on Sundays, but 24/7.

“She is His biggest fan and cheerleader”

What is your biggest achievement?

I went on a Marriage Encounter 37 years ago, when I didn’t want to go. This was when I heard the words, “GOD DON’T MAKE JUNK.” I always felt I wasn’t good enough and never measured up. I was always compared with my friends and told I should be and act like so and so. When I heard the words, “GOD DON’T MAKE JUNK,” a light bulb went on inside me and I felt for the first time in my life I was loved. WOW, GOD LOVES ME! How do you balance your spiritual, personal and work life?

By spending time alone with God early in the morning, depending on the Holy Spirit to supply my needs, living one minute at a time, and depending on God to live His life through me not by my might, but by His Holy Spirit.

What advice would you give to other Christian women balancing a full, wholesome life?

Apart from God, you can’t do a thing, much less succeed. Rise up early! Spend time in

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Do you have a prayer closet? Where?

If you asked years ago, I would have mentioned a place. Today, I say it’s my heart, because I fellowship with the Lord all day long talking to Him, seeking His help, trusting Him with my life that when I mess up, He is there to forgive me and pick me up again and again.

Do you have a quiet place in your home (a sanctuary for prayer, study, meditation, etc.)? Where?

My wonderful husband, Jim, actually made me a prayer room. If I am not in it, it’s at the kitchen table early in the morning writing in my journal. Also, in the fireplace room when I was at times on my face seeking the Lord.

Reflecting back on your salvation, share with us your initial experience with the acceptance of God’s gift?

I never liked me. I never felt I was good enough. I always felt scared and put on a mask smile. I always felt compared with others and I never once measured up to what I expected of myself so I could fit in. When God revealed He loved me, Carol Riccio, I became a new creation. God loved me! It didn’t matter if I had fancy clothes. It didn’t matter the street I lived on. It didn’t matter what shape I had.

God loved me, Carol Riccio, and that was

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Is there a significant difference of the two?

Absolutely! Praise compliments. Worship extols, edifies, honors, and magnifies God and God alone – you become selfless.

What is the importance of worship in your life?

Very important! I’m living for God and not myself.

Do you know your spiritual gift(s)?

I truly believe my spiritual gift is to share the love of God; to witness to the hurting, the wounded and the lost; to bring hope to the hopeless; to allow the Holy Spirit to flow through me with His anointing; to break every

yoke of bondage setting the captives free, lifting each burden - transferring each one from a person’s heart to His. As a prayer warrior, my gift is to listen and pray with the body of Christ, government officials and all those in authority.

How do you use it to inspire others?

I share with each one what God has to say in His Word.

Where do you serve in the church or ministry? Explain.

I participate in the Adopt-a-Leader Ministry.

It is a ministry I didn’t want any part of but God had different plans for me. What I do is write letters of encouragement to governmental leaders. He has put on my heart to share words of encouragement and how specifically I pray for them. I am also an event coordinator for the National Day of Prayer in which we meet at 8:00 a.m. on the first Thursday in May, at the Dade City Historic Courthouse.

How do you work with others in the ministry to help them reach goals?

I pray with each one and pray that they wait on God and obey His promptings and not man’s. I encourage each one to depend on God, reminding them that it’s not their ministry but God’s.

How do you handle stressful situations on your job?

Pray! Pray! Pray! Seek the Lord and trust He will show me what to do and how to do it and pray, pray, pray that my tone is right as I surrender all my pride over to Him; for it’s not about being right, it’s about doing what’s right and making sure God gets all the credit.

What else would you like to share with our readers?

I have learned over and over and still am learning. It’s not about me; it’s what pleases God that makes me feel whole and complete.

How has your faith contributed to your success or any successful events in your life?

Without faith I cannot please God. I believe He is who He says He is. I believe He will do what He says He will do. He promised He would reward me, which He has already done when He made it clear to me – apart from Him I can’t do a thing, but with Him He makes the impossible possible. My success is giving God Himself all the Glory, Honor and Praise due to His Holy Name.

Where do you worship?

Victorious Life Church, 6224 Old Pasco Road, Wesley Chapel, Florida. (www.victoriouslifechurch.com) What is your Pastor’s name?

Pastor Ed Russo. ▣

The fashion world spotlights the Fashionista as someone influenced by high-fashion and trends. The discount designer chain recognizes a Maxxinista as an expert shopping for deals at a TJ Maxx store. Well, Beauty Talk Illustrated has its very own “PraiseAnista,” a woman who loves to praise God! She is passionate about worship and shares with others His love in her life.

Carol presents gifts of love to the leaders and their family.

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model?

Jesus Christ.

What is your favorite scripture?

John 3:16-17 What is one of your proudest moments?

When I was asked to have this interview and for one to see my heart is to praise God. S P R I N G 2 0 1 2 B E A U T Y TA L K I L L U S T R AT E D

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2

N I NE FI V E Sherri Brown National Sales Manager Tampa Bay & Company sbrown@visittampabay.com

Sherri Brown has been in the hospitality and tourism industry for more than 20 years. As a National Sales Manager for Tampa Bay & Company, she is responsible for bringing multicultural and religious conventions and events to the Tampa Bay area.

Sherri begins each work day with candles and prayer.

Q: What scripture or quote would you share with others today?

A: Psalms 23

LIVE

WORK

PRAY

Q: What is your most important life lesson learned?

A: I’ve failed over and over again in my life, and that is why I succeed.

Q: What is your greatest challenge in the workplace?

A: Organizational Skills Q: Using one word to describe your career, what would it be?

A: Blessed Q: What do you like to do for fun?

A: Watch National Lapoon movies with my two children, DeMario and Regina Q: How do you relax and rejuvenate?

A: Exercise – Go for a walk Q: If God had a great sense of humor what would you say to Him? A: Thank you, God, for not laughing at my mistakes.

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RECOGNITION

GIRLS GOT

TALENT Tamara Mikelle Grade: 4th Hobbies: Skating and Girl Scouts Dreams: To Become an Actress

This fourth grade student did something that made her teachers and family proud. A relatively shy student, Tamara pleasantly surprised everyone!

She won her class essay contest and went a step further to become the fourth grade first place winner for the entire school.

As judges, teachers, her peers and proud granddaddy looked on, Tamara’s oratorical skills reflected a confident young orator as she read her speech about “Breast Cancer.”

Congratulations, Tamara!

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TO BE TO BECOMING

By Elisheva Morgan Williams

I

n the last days, God says, “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” (Acts 2:17 NIV)

Years ago, the passing by of a company town’s agricultural mine led me to spend countless hours dreaming and gazing at the starry lights that lit the mine during the night. Most often my dreams took me to a city where I hoped to live one day.

You see I came from a small town with no place to go except for the yearly church field trip to the big arches... yes, McDonalds! My time was spent constantly longing for the bright city lights of a metropolitan area and dreaming of who and what I wanted to become.

We all have dreams. Sometimes we share them, other times we don’t. There are dreams that are dreamt while we sleep, dreams for our lives and those we love, and we have dreams of great hopes for the future. Let’s focus for a moment on the latter two of the three types of dreams and consider these questions:

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What is your dream for your life?

Is it the same dream you’ve had as a child?

Are you still working on your dream or have you given up?

Is your dream aligned with the will of the Father who can see what lies ahead?

And I ask you, what happens when your dreams are shattered before they’re accomplished?

Jeremiah 29:11-14a For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back from captivity.”

The Lord knows the dreams He has placed in our hearts to give us the expected end that we desire. ▶

His dreams are birthed in us and as we view our dreams looking through His eyes, we see the beauty of them all.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Can you still see the beauty in yours?

If you are in need of counseling or prayer, please contact Elisheva as follows: Phone: 214.930.6733 E-mail: tobetobecoming@yahoo.com

Don’t give up on your dreams!

Website: www.tobetobecoming.com We believe that God gave us dreams for a purpose and you should reject any dream that does not line up with God’s will for your life according to His Word.

The “To Be To Becoming Ministries” has a dream to assist you with fulfilling your Godordained call for your life, your career, your future and your goals. Our mission is to assist and offer insight and Godly counsel to you in developing your interests in ways that will glorify the Father. ▣

Musical Enjoyment: www.cdbaby.com/elishevamorgan

Little Tokens of Kindness A smile is guaranteed

1. Pay the toll of the car behind you.

2. Leave a savings coupon near the item in the grocery store.

3. Mail someone a thinking of you card.

4. Pay a compliment to a stranger.

5. Call a family member or friend to only say “I Love You.”

© Elisheva Morgan Williams 2012

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COLLEGE GLAMGIRLS I N T R O D U C I N G B E AU T Y TA L K I L L U S T R AT E D ’ S

We are pleased to introduce Beauty Talk Illustrated’s College GLAM Girls. They are four young ladies with a common interest – their love of God and the acceptance of His love in their lives. Using their spiritual gifts, these talented writers will share a piece of college life to inspire and encourage other young ladies.

GLAM, GODLY AND

MOTIVATED STUDENTS ON CAMPUS

Lindsay Burnley Health Sciences Major University of South Florida

ArDonna Hamilton Premed/African American Studies/Drama Major University of Virginia

LaCameya Roper

She’s

Confident &

Kind

Mass Communication Television and Radio Major Texas Wesleyan University

Her

Faith Is Her

Guide

Mallory Washington Microbiology and Cell Science Major University of Florida

Students leave the comfort of Christian homes to enter colleges across the country, seeking degrees that will take them to the next level. On campus, they receive “much more” than a college education.

A college GLAM girl dazzles the “much more” with her wisdom, fashion, beauty and style. She is saved and savvy – confident and kind. She inspires others and humbly models the role of a “GLAM” girl.

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USF GLAM GIRL Lindsay Burnley University of South Florida Health Sciences Major

Core Strength!

They say home is where your heart is and University of South Florida (USF) keeps me near. After receiving an Associate of Arts degree from St. Petersburg College, USF was a natural choice. During my first two years in college, I earned a certification as a Stott Pilates instructor and currently work for Pilates Movement Studio. As I became immersed in rehabilitation, it was obvious that physical therapy would be my future.

I look forward to sharing the remainder of my college experience with the readers of Beauty Talk Illustrated magazine. I hope to inspire other college girls to listen to their conscience, which is the Holy Spirit inside us to guide us towards God’s pleasing and perfect will.

UVA GLAM GIRL ArDonna Hamilton

Campus Praise!

University of Virginia Premed/African American Studies/Drama Major I chose to attend University of Virginia not only because of its beautiful grounds and academic rigor, but also because I admired the community of trust that exists by way of the Honor Code. In addition, the University is almost entirely student-run and is dedicated to stretching and pushing its students to become the best that we can be.

I have been a member of Black Voices Gospel Choir and Oneway Christian Fellowship since my first year and have grown closer to the Lord through ministry in song and through weekly communion with my peers.

I look forward to sharing campus praise with the readers of Beauty Talk Illustrated magazine.

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TWU GLAM GIRL LaCameya Roper

Snapshot!

Texas Wesleyan University Mass Communication Television and Radio Major I am currently a senior at Texas Wesleyan University. I have a passion to pursue a career in the sports broadcasting industry and television production. After graduation I plan on moving to Atlanta, Georgia, to attend Graduate School at Georgia State University and step foot into the Sports and TV industry.

In my spare time I like to draw and take pictures and just be creative. I am very outgoing and it definitely shows in my work and personality. I work full-time and attend school full-time.

I believe God has set a path for me in making His name known within the world through my career.

UF GLAM GIRL Mallory Washington

My Blueprint!

University of Florida Microbiology and Cell Science Major If you never stop learning, life will always be interesting and filled with new opportunities. My quest to continually stretch myself has led me to choose University of Florida for furthering my education. Going to college, Graduate School, and beyond – it was all understood in my family’s blueprint for my relatives and me. It was assumed that each of us had the intellect and desire to do superior things, and it was impressed upon all of us to use those skills in our own unique way to make the world a better place.

While in college, I found a church that I like to attend and visit as frequently as possible. Also, I read the Bible daily and pray multiple times a day. College has tested me and I know I would not have made it this far without God by my side and keeping my faith in Him.

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empower to give official authority Do you not know that your body is the temple (the very sanctuary) of the Holy Spirit, Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God? You are not your own. You were bought with a price. So then, honor God and bring glory to Him in your body.

I Corinthians 6:19-20 (AMP)

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FITNESS

I

t’s that time of year again, you know, when we all make a commitment to change or improve something(s) in our lives. I am sure it is no surprise to anyone that the number one New Year’s resolution over the years has been a commitment to fitness. Many of you are reading this article right now because you have made that same commitment for 2012 and praise God that you did. This year let’s commit to Triune Fitness!

TRIune

FITNESS – What does that mean to you? Is it obtaining a desired weight, is it wearing a certain dress size, or could it be working out until your body is a perfectly sculpted silhouette? Maybe you think of an actress, entertainer or an athlete who you wish your body were like. There’s nothing wrong with these desires unless you are coveting, idolizing, envying, or doing other acts the Bible tells us not to do! (Galatians 5:17-21, 26) But ladies, there is more to fitness than our external appearances.

There is so much more! This article is a guide to assist you in achieving the most important fitness, Triune Fitness! I am so excited about writing this article. I know it will be a blessing to you, because just writing it is blessing me!

Triune Fitness - what is it? As women of God, we are Triune beings made up of three components: our spirit, our physical body, and our soul (Genesis 1:26, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, and Hebrews 4:12). We must ensure that each of our components remain fit at all times. We

FITness Develop and Strengthen Your Spirit, Soul and Body.

By Allison Smith 28

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FITNESS can exercise and eat properly until we have what the world’s system considers the perfectly fit body and yet be totally unhealthy if we do not maintain our spirit and soul as well.

Yes, we desire to look good and we want to feel good, but we must remember the purpose for our desire. Glorifying God should be our main purpose, yes, even in our desires to be fit and look good; we must do so that God will be glorified in the Earth (Romans 9:17).

So, how do we strengthen our spirit, soul, and body? I will help you answer these questions through a plan that God has given me – The Triune Fitness Development Plan. It is a simple plan to assist in developing a triune fit lifestyle.

However, before I explain the process, it is important to know that in order to receive the full benefit of Triune fitness you must first accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior (Romans 8:8,9 and

Romans 10:9). Okay, now let’s get started and commit to develop and strengthen your spirit, soul and body. Here is an acronym to help you remember, SPMP: Study, Pray and Meditate, and Physical conditioning.

In addition, I encourage you to read the scriptures below - pray and meditate on them daily.

Hebrews 12:1 THEREFORE THEN, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us.

1 Peter 1:13 THEREFORE, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set

your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.

Galatians 5:16-17 SO I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. ▣

Women of God, I want for you what John wanted for his beloved friend, Gaius, in 3 John 1:2, that is above all things you prosper and be in health even as your soul prospers. If y o u t r u l y w a n t t o s e e a c h a n g e i n y o u r s t a t e o f f i t n e s s , i n c o r p o r a t e t h e Tr i u n e F i t n e s s D e velopment Plan into your daily schedule and not only watch your physical body transform, b u t y o u r s o u l a n d s p i r i t m a n a s w e l l . G o d B l e s s y o u o n y o u r j o u r n e y t o Tr i u n e F i t n e s s !

1

STUDY!

Develop and strengthen your spiritual being by reading

your Bible.

If you are not sure how or what to study, attend/join a Bible believing church (Hebrew 10:25 and Romans 10:14) and study the scriptures from your pastor’s sermon. Attending a weekly Bible study group is beneficial as well.

2

PRAY and MEDITATE!

Develop and strengthen your

pray, look to the Holy Bible.

a good diet, a regular exercise

About the Author

Jesus taught us to pray (Matthew

regimen, and visits to your

6:9-13).

health care professional for

Allison Smith is a retired United States Army

We are also instructed to pray

regular checkups.

Command Sergeant Major, with over 27 years of military service. She is a native of

without ceasing (1 Thessalo-

We can eat in moderation, how-

Portsmouth, Virginia. In addition to her Army

nians 5:17).

ever, nothing should be idol-

career, she has been featured in Ebony

ized, and that includes food.

Magazine’s article “The Many Splendored

rate words, just speak from the

Our bodies must be conditioned

Faces of Today’s Black Women.” Smith is a

heart. Meditate on the word of

to do the work that the Lord has

God (Psalms 119:15).

for us. I understand there are

You do not have to use elabo-

3

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING

Develop and strengthen your

soul being by praying.

physical being by exercising.

Prayer is communicating with

Women of God must be physi-

God. If you don’t know how to

cally fit; this consists of having

many who have physical limitations that preclude mainstream exercise, however, speak with

fitness trainer, facilitator, mentor, and coach.

She writes and consults about Triune Fitness and encourages women by reminding them that they are beautiful, powerful and intelligent because God says so! Her favorite scriptures

your healthcare professional to

are Romans 12:1-2 and Colossians 3:23.

see what you can do to exer-

You may contact Allison via email MakeRigh-

cise your physical being.

tChoicesNow@gmail.com or RightChoices, P.O. Box 508, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060.

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H E A LT H

Side

BEAUTY

Out

In

Body & Soul Recipe First Baptist of Progress Village ▪ Tampa, FL http://www.fbcopv.com Dr. Sam Maxwell, Pastor Body & Soul Ministry Ministry Leader: Joyce Mosley

Low Fat Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients: 1-2/3 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed 1 (10-3/4 ounce) can fat-free Cream of Chicken soup 1 cup cooked chicken, diced

IT’S A LIFESTYLE

1 cup reduced fat Bisquick mix 1 egg 1/2 cup skim milk 1 (4 ounce) sliced mushrooms, drained 1/4 teaspoon Fines Herbes

Benefits of Cinnamon without the Roll

1/2 cup reduced fat grated Parmesan cheese

T

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

HIS COPPER-COLORED SPICE is actually a good kid off the block but is known to hang out with the wrong crowd at times. Separated from the sugar-coated roll and bread, cinnamon is actually a natural food that is good for your health. If you are interested in lowering your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, try sprinkling a little cinnamon into your food. It tastes fantastic!

Directions: Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees F. Mix thawed mixed vegetables, mushrooms, diced cooked chicken, Fines Herbes, pepper and soup in an ungreased 9-inch pie plate.

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. In a mixing bowl, whisk together Bisquick, skim milk and egg. Pour over ingredients in pie shell. Bake at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes (uncovered) or until crust is golden brown.

Makes six servings.

Building a healthy lifestyle is as simple as 1-2-3!

1. Be honest about where you are today.

2. Make a commitment to change just ONE health issue at a time. Oftentimes, correcting a single item causes a domino effect that will solve multiple issues. For instance, shedding TEN pounds will boost your self esteem, lower cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, and provide some wiggle room in your favorite jeans.

3. Take 5! It’s truly amazing how FIVE minutes a day can change your whole life. The choices are astronomical.

Let’s see… five minutes of meditation, prayer, reading, walking, stretching, gardening, journaling, praising, singing, dancing, laughter, or rejoicing, and the list goes on and on – just keep it simple, exciting and fun. It’s your choice.

Take this moment, today, to start building a positive lifestyle and become a more peaceful you.

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State of Denial: Steps to Recovery When becoming a parent, we look for everything in our child to be perfect five fingers, five toes, two eyes, and two ears. Yes!t

By Regina Thomas, Early Interventionist

W

“certain” age. There are many factors that need to be addressed, preferably with a healthcare provider. The first person to take any concerns about your child’s developmental progress to your primary care physician is YOU!

Although we want to believe otherwise, each child does not hit a “certain” mark because he or she has reached a

First things first, though. Before making an appointment with the physician, it is very important to document everything- no matter how large or

e want our child to be like every other child.

When it relates to developmental progress, however, this is not possible. Developmental ranges were created for this reason.

small it may seem - every little detail matters. Some parents may feel unsure and think their concerns are not a major problem. Others may feel reluctant to ask questions when we think we should know the answer. Remember what we teach our children ... no question is a dumb one, right?

Oftentimes when a child’s development is delayed or that child has been diagnosed ▶

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with a disorder, many parents exhibit what we call “Stage of Grief and Denial.” It is a typical response and defense mechanism (Sigmund Freud) to a problem that a person is faced with due to facts that are too uncomfortable for them to bear.

Parents may reject the situation instead and insist that it is not true despite the overwhelming evidence.

The Kulber-Ross “Stages of Grief and Denial” consist of five major factors after the initial “shock.”

1 DENIAL 2 ANGER 3 BARGAINING 4 DEPRESSION 5 ACCEPTANCE

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After denial sets in, a person may become angry wondering why this is happening to me. What have I done to deserve this? Is this my fault? What could I have done different? In some cases, “this being someone’s fault” is not a factor.

Sometimes we have situations arise in our life and how we deal with them determine our character and our strengths.

There are many factors that may affect the different delays, disorders, and disabilities.

Bargaining with others such as the doctor, a close friend, and maybe even God is not the answer.

God created all of us differently and He placed special gifts and talents in other professionals to provide help to those in need.

Don’t be afraid or too proud to ask for help.

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When depression sets in, it may send you into a dark place for a while. When you find yourself feeling low and just can’t seem to find your way out, PRAY! Drop to your knees and bare everything to the Lord kind of PRAYER! Being depressed will not help your child, nor will it get his/her needs or developmental milestones met.

Acceptance of your situation will be your path to recovery. This will help you see past your difficult circumstances.

Being strong and keeping God first in your life, (in the midst of your struggle) you will find yourself on a road to recovery. ▣

Faith vs.

Faithfulness

By Sonia Franklin

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ere are two words that we often use. But, do we really take time to think about what they really mean?

When we think about the seed God planted in the mind of this online magazine’s creator, we know it was her faith in God that allowed her to believe she could make a difference in the lives of God’s people. Then, it is her faithfulness to Him to say, “For God I live and for God I’ll step out - for I walk by faith and not by sight.”

God said in His word it’s better to give than receive.

So, I’ll ask it again, can God count on you?

In today’s society it is so easy to walk away from difficult situations. We walk away from our families, friends, people in need, our jobs, and we blame everyone from the White House to the Church house for what’s happening in our communities.

It is always someone else’s fault.

“... I walk by faith and not by sight.”

• So, where is your faith?

• Who or what are you being faithful to?

• Can God count on you?

• Are you waiting to see what God is going to do for you?

• Do you do for others, only to see what you are going to get back?

Have you stopped to ask the man or woman in the mirror, “What have I done to make a difference?”

Are you burying your talents in the sand or are you using what God has blessed you with, whether it is big or small?

I challenge you to check your faith and your faithfulness today! Then, I encourage you to make that faithful first step and see where God leads you! ▣ S P R I N G 2 0 1 2 B E A U T Y TA L K I L L U S T R AT E D

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GIFT OF GRACE Deciding where you will spend eternity is one of the most important decisions you will ever make in your life.

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our choice is one of two destinations with only one way to get there. It’s better to decide sooner than later because once life has ended, the choice is no longer available to you. Hopefully, reading Gift of Grace will encourage you to choose today to spend eternal life in Heaven.

You are dear to God and He loves y o u so very much.

He has blessed us with two important gifts: His word and His son, Jesus Christ. God knew we will need some help along the way, so He went a step further and gave us a book to teach us about salvation and Christianity. Inspired

by God, the Bible is our guideline for living a life on earth in preparation for an eternal life with Him. Take a look at John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” You see, God did not send Jesus to condemn us but to save us. Now, this is true love.

Salvation is really simple: Just believe in

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God and know that He loves you; admit you are a sinner and ask for forgiveness; realize you cannot save yourself, but believe that God gave us a wonderful gift of salvation.

He presented to the world His son, Jesus, who paid the highest price so that we may have the opportunity to choose Heaven as our home. He was crucified and died on the cross, but the most important thing … He rose, so that we may be saved. Would you take a moment today to allow Jesus Christ in your life and accept Him as your personal Savior?

Let’s pray: Father God, in the name of Jesus, I want to thank you for bringing me to this point in my life. Lord, forgive me for every sin that I have ever committed. I believe that You are sovereign God and because You love me, You sacrificed Your only begotten son to die so that I may live. Lord, I accept Your gift of salvation. Thank you, Lord, for I know only You have the power to save me. Lord, show me how to be a Christian and help me to understand Your purpose for my life. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. ▣

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FOOD FOR THE

SOUL Walking with the Lord is very important in a Christian’s life, especially for the new believer.

• Hosea 14:9 – For the ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them.

• Proverbs 14:2 – He who walks in his uprighteousness fears the Lord.

• Isaiah 2:3 – …He will teach us His ways, and we shall walk in His paths.

• Psalm 26:3 – For your loving kindness is before my eyes, and I have walked in your truth.

• Proverbs 28:18 – Whoever walks blamelessly will be saved.

• Isaiah 30:21 – Your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

• Deuteronomy 11:22 – … to love the Lord your God, walk in all His ways, and hold fast to Him. • Genesis 17:1 – I am Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless.

• I John 1:7 – But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another; and the blood of Jesus Christ, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

CONTRIBUTORS Jimi Walker It has been said that a picture speaks a thousand words and the significance of its beauty lies in the detail. Freelance photographer, Jimi Walker, captures creative aspects of each photo shoot with a trained keen eye – techniques developed during a successful twenty-nine year career in law enforcement.

Focused on a new adventure, Walker’s sight is clearly set on the creativity that brings life to his photography. This St. Leo University graduate and retired law enforcement officer has traded his badge and gun for a camera, so that he could now capture the glory of God’s creation. You may contact Jimi Walker Photography at (jwalker@beautytalkillustrated.com).

career, she has been featured in Ebony Magazine’s article “The Many Splendored Faces of Today’s Black Women.”

Smith is a fitness trainer, facilitator, mentor, and coach. She writes and consults about Triune Fitness and encourages women by reminding them that they are beautiful, powerful and intelligent because God says so! Her favorite scriptures are Romans 12:1-2 and Colossians 3:23.

What’s next: Smith, who is the founder of RightChoices, is “Just Looking for opportunities to encourage women of all ages that they are what God says they are, they can do what God says they can do, and they can be what God says they can be!”

She plans to write inspirational books and devotionals.

Elisheva Morgan Williams Oh how sweet the sound that flows from the beautiful voice of Independent Recording Artist, Elisheva Williams. Talented and gifted, Elisheva was merely four years old when she dreamed of becoming an entertainer, only to later realize she would one day entertain angels unaware. Blessed with the gift of music, Elisheva began singing in the church choir when she was just a tiny tot.

As a doting young girl with an inspiring voice, she was often requested to sing and play the piano during worship service. It wasn’t long before the community recognized her talents, putting this highly accomplished musician in great demand. Life brought about a few bumps in the road but it was the “God in her” that brought Elisheva through the storm. Now, she shares with others the gift that keeps on giving. Elisheva is a minister of music, an independent recording artist, actress, worship psalmist, and entrepreneur. Through her production company, Futuristic Productions (http://www.futuristicproductions.com), she teaches piano lessons and theater to young people in Dallas, Texas. As a songwriter and recording artist, Elisheva has produced two CDs (What Can I Give to You and recently released, Out of the Blue). As a grateful cancer survivor, she has dedicated time out of her busy schedule to mentor cancer patients through the American Cancer Society’s Reach for Recovery program.

Elisheva has also performed live at many of the Cancer Society’s annual fundraising events, as well as other venues throughout the United States.

Stephanie Jackson Stephanie is an Information Technology Specialist with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington, DC. This Biloxi, Mississippi native and Mississippi Valley graduate believes she is like most women…a mother who is most passionate about making a difference in the lives of her spouse, children, siblings, and sister-friends. Married for over 20 years, Stephanie makes it her goal to provide life-long support and trust to her husband, family and friends.

She believes her gifts are encouraging young adults and education. The quote, “Each one teach one,” is one of her favorites and reflects her desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. As the College GLAM Girl coordinator for Beauty Talk Illustrated magazine, she looks forward to working with the college students.

What happens on the campuses of colleges and university influence our young adults, not only when they attend college but for years to come. These influences will mold and dictate the societal judgment and direction of these young adults.

She’s excited about working with College GLAM Girls as they share their love of the Lord and their spiritual experiences to inspire other young people.

Sonia Franklin Allison Smith Allison Smith is a retired United States Army Command Sergeant Major with over 27 years of military service. She is a native of Portsmouth, Virginia. In addition to her Army

Sonia is president of Sisters Network, Tampa Bay. She has served in this capacity for the past two years and seven years with the Tampa Chapter. After her first bout with cancer 12 years ago, Sonia was determined to make a difference ▶ S P R I N G 2 0 1 2 B E A U T Y TA L K I L L U S T R AT E D

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in the lives of others who may receive the shocking news, “It’s positive …you have cancer.” Unfortunately, she had to experience it twice.

Sisters Network, Inc. is the first national organization with a focus on the African American community. Its seventeen year mission is to increase local and national attention to the devastating impact breast cancer has in the African American community. In addition to serving the Network, she has also served on several Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Peer Direct Boards.

Sharing a quote she once came upon, “In the mist and fog of life, find your way to the rainbow by the sound of your own voice,” Sonia’s voice in the community is heard. Aside from her service to the community, Sonia’s greatest joy is being a wife,

mother and grandmother.

Regina Thomas Regina is an Infant Toddler Development and Behavior Specialist in Tampa, Florida. A graduate of the University of South Florida, Regina earned a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders with an interest in Speech Language Pathology and an Associate Degree in Elementary Education from Hillsborough Community College.

A wife and mother of two, Regina loves spending time with family, watching movies, sharing in great conversations and traveling. She enjoys her career and aspires to one day own a preschool to address developmental concerns for those children in need.

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We are delighted that you took time to spend with us and we want to hear more from you!

Please let us know what you enjoyed most about the magazine. Also, share with us your interests and what you would like to read in future editions.

Provide us with your email address and we will keep you informed of upcoming articles and events.

www.beautytalkillustrated.com

Beauty Talk . . . It’s a Lifestyle!

Make your dream wedding a reality with sage advice and creative ideas for the perfect day!

Set a budget and stick to it.

The smallest details matter.

Hire a wedding coordinator — important for the big day!

God’s creation includes a large array of florals to enjoy.

Consider using non-traditional flowers and colors.

Simple is elegant, too.

Add unique personal touches throughout the venue.

Let the designer know how you want the guests to feel when they see the bouquet.

The invitation is a glimpse of the wedding—set the tone early.

A sleek boutonniere and chic corsage makes for a special touch.

Lightly understate the decor. Besides, bride and groom are the best decorations.

Wedding bands are symbols of your never-ending love. Make them as special as your life together.

Is the ceremony and reception in the same place? Bring the two spaces together with a unified color scheme.

The Wedding Dress—it’s YOU! Remember, it’s YOUR day!

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Prina Tornai Collection

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Married: Sunday, October 9, 2011 Honeymoon: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Home: Birmingham, Alabama Dr. Kristen Trulear and Jarvis Washington Jackson exchanged vows in a lavish wedding at the historic African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Two hundred guests witnessed the union of this beautiful couple.

Dr. Trulear, a Vanderbilt and Howard University graduate, is a Resident Physician in Anesthesiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital and Jarvis, an Old Dominion University graduate, is an IT Product Support Specialist for Southern Company.

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