November 2011 Make It So Report

EDITOR Allen Green

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donald E. Graham, Jr. Mary Daniels Irene Council Demetrius Adams II Carl C. Gable III, MD Simone Malone Lenora Young Phil Hughes Christine Tunstall Monica F. Hudson

Outside and Inside Cover Design by A. Green

www.makeitsomanagement.com

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Why Thanksgiving is my Favorite Holiday in the Calendar Year Writer Christine Tunstall While I genuinely enjoy the celebration of the anniversary of my birth, that actually isn’t my most favorite holiday in any year. However, in 2011, my birthday will probably serve as a favorite birthday for as far back as I can remember. This year I was blessed to celebrate my 50th birthday. I had a wonderful celebration with over 100 family/friends and it was a joyous time.

Even though in 2011 I thoroughly enjoyed my birthday, routinely it is not the favorite holiday. Yes, I said holiday. My birthday should be a national holiday. I will speak it into existence. My birthday usually ranks as #2 in any year as my favorite holiday.

My favorite holiday in any year normally and routinely has been Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving, or more specifically, the Thanksgiving holiday season (the day after Thanksgiving). I am not speaking, at all, about black Friday with the shopping or anything materialistic like that. Since 1980, I have entertained friends, family and loved ones on the day following Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Day was spent at momma’s house with siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and children. We certainly enjoyed the turkey, ham, beef, yams, greens, collards, potato salad, pies, cakes, cobblers, punch, ice cream and, of course, cranberry sauce. But, my big day was the day after. Many of the same people who I spent Thanksgiving Day with would come to my home the day after. It was different. It was my season of entertaining. It was me preparing the food and opening my home to everyone. I have enjoyed every single moment of these thirty some years of stuffing my own turkey with all the accompaniments.

Why would I like the Thanksgiving holiday above even my birthday. Well, let me tell you. I enjoy the day after Thanksgiving so very much because the only thing people are looking for is food and fellowship. I have plenty of food and the fellowship is overflowing. No one is looking for or asking about a gift. The only question you hear is “is there any more of that” or “do you have a extra bed because I’m staying”. No one is asking the question that gets asked at Christmas time ‘what did you get me?’

The only noise you hear throughout the house is laughter and loud storytelling. Everyone is genuinely happy to see each other and no one is looking for anything other than a full belly and a loving environment to reminisce. People become nostalgic and traditions are formed. Young children get to sit at the foot of our elders and hear historic stories that can only be recalled through the experiences of our matriarchs and patriarchs. Our children get to hear stories about our childhood from our elders. It’s a wonderful time.

Psalm 107.1 tells us to “give thanks unto the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever. I certainly give thanks unto the Lord every day and especially during this period of Thanksgiving. I give 2

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thanks for my loved ones and pray that the spirit of the Lord continues to strengthen and guide us in our every decision and every challenge.

During this season of Thanksgiving, what comes to mind, for me, are the many scriptures related to thanksgiving. I cannot think about any portion of my life without being thankful to the one who guides my life. Without God I would have no life.

If you attend worship service on or around Thanksgiving, remember Psalm 100:4 and “enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him and bless His name.”

If that doesn’t work for you, how about Psalm 95:2 – “let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms.” How can you not love the thanksgiving holiday. Just saying thanksgiving reminds me of how thankful I am for family and our Lord. As it says in Philippians 4:6 “be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” We all know what happens when we let our requests be known to our father, our daddy, our Savior. He is a prayer answering God. Ask Him to bring you and your loved ones together this Thanksgiving season. Ask Him to surround all of you with His loving arms. He answers prayers every day, not just Thanksgiving Day. Let these scriptures resonate in your heart and be thankful my sistahs and brothers I close with these words from Hebrews 13:15, “By Him, therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name.”

Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday and remember to give thanks to our Lord Be blessed.

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Allen Green, Editor of the “Make It So Report” and Actress and Singer Tamika Meme English of the musical production “Crowns”

Thomasina James, Philadelphia Gospel Diva

Allen Green and Gospel Singer Lil Lewis

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Writer: Elder Demetrius Adams II

Are You Thankful, Really?

Thanksgiving is not passive it is an action. We are to show our thankfulness to the world for all that God has done in our lives. We should be happy that we have breath in our bodies and acknowledge the reason we do is because it is part of God's plan. It is to give Him glory and that is the only reason.

Thank God that you are healthy and show others in the way you live your life.

If you are not whole and healthy thank God that in His infinite wisdom He has a plan for you, Think how much more of a testimony you can give by showing others your willingness to love and follow God in spite of infirmities. Jesus gave thanks to God at both ends of the scale. He gave thanks for the wisdom of God acknowledging that His plan was right and good. He agreed fully with God's plans for His life even though it meant He would have to die on the cross. In numerous verses in the Bible Jesus gave thanks to God for the everyday things. Jesus is the example of how we are to live. We must give thanks to our Lord in all things even if it leads to our death. Jesus thanked and agreed with His Father's plans even though it meant He would suffer the rejection of His own people. He would be ridiculed, flogged, beaten, spit on, forced to carry the instrument of His own death and ultimately die on one of the most agonizing means of execution ever devised. How much more should we be thankful and happy to be part of God's plan? Yet the Church today is full of sniveling, weak people who call themselves men and women of God. They complain about the smallest thing and wonder why God does not bless them with more. WAKE UP PEOPLE!!! If you cannot be trusted with the smallest of things then what makes you think you can be trusted with more? It is simple enough to understand, God is in charge. This is His creation; we are His to do with as He chooses.

We are to follow His plan not ours. We were brought with a price and are no longer our own. We do all things for His glory and any thought or action contrary is pride. I mentioned earlier we can do nothing except that which God has given us the ability to do. Do not get me wrong I am not perfect and I have fallen into the same traps but the Lord in His great mercy has shown me how to escape. It is not because of anything that I have done but because of His love, grace and mercy. What He does for one He will do for all. If God can show me my sin and a way of escape He can and will show you. All you have to do is believe and obey. However, be warned you will be tested.

I am tested daily but God does not want passive Christians, He wants soldier’s real men. How can you show your thankfulness to God if you are trying to stand on your own? You will fall. Get on your knees before God in supplication and thanksgiving. Only then can you show God and the world the glory of our Savior. It will not be easy. Satan will come in like a roaring lion to devour you and pull you away from God. We are tested for a reason. Remember all things are possible through God. So I urge you to wake up, get on your knees and fight for the glory of our God. We need to be more mindful of all that God has done for us giving Him praise, glory, and thanks. We set apart one day a year and think we are doing well. In the Old Testament part of the priest's job was "to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord, and likewise at evening;" 1st Chronicles 23:30. They were to stand and praise God and thank 5

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Him twice a day, yet we think we do well to thank Him once a year? God has blessed us financially. Did you know that about 59% of the world's wealth is controlled by only 6% of the world's population? Most of which is right here in America! Even less than wealthy families in this country are much better off than most people around the world.

But do we praise and thank God? Unfortunately, we think it is our own good judgment or our own good business sense that is responsible for our success. We neglect to realize that "Every good and perfect gift comes from above. So what do we do with our wealth? Do we use it for God's glory, to praise and thank Him for giving it to us in the first place? No, what usually happens is we buy bigger houses, newer cars, and nicer furniture, take better vacations, things which only benefit us, leaving God out. So what do we do? We work longer and harder to pay for the luxuries that we do not need in the first place, which leaves us less time and energy to worship God. How many times have we heard or maybe even said, "I can't go to church, Sunday is the only day I have to sleep late." Did you ever stop to think maybe if we didn't have so much, we might actually be better off? For those of us who have believed in Christ Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins and the gift of eternal life, we have so much to be thankful for. If God never answers another prayer or does another thing for us in this lifetime; even if He allows us to lose everything we have in this world; He has still given us the greatest gift of all--- eternal life. No matter what we may not have or what we may suffer, no matter what happens to us, we know that it is only for a while and then we have the assurance of eternal life. Eternal life with our Lord in a heaven far beyond our imagination, where there will be no pain or suffering, no sorrow for all eternity. If that isn't reason enough to thank and praise Him every day of our lives, I don't know what is!

If you have not yet trusted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, be very thankful that you still have a chance to do so. That in itself is reason for heartfelt thankfulness--- that you have not died in your sins and still have another chance. That will not always be the case. The time will come when it will be too late---but as of right now you still have that opportunity. I beg you; don't let this Thanksgiving Day go by without realizing that God's greatest gift of all is still available to you. Don't just say a quick prayer before dinner this Thanksgiving; get some place quiet and truly contemplate all the many ways that God has blessed you and your family. Spend some time in worship giving thanks. I promise you, it'll make this Thanksgiving the best you've ever had!

Profound Brother Ahead Of His Time Many people wonder why some are so hard on President Obama. Did Frederick Douglass predict the answer many years ago? “Though the colored man is no longer subject to barter and sale, he is surrounded by an adverse settlement which fetters all his movements.

In his downward course he meets with no resistance, but his course upward is resented and resisted at every step of his progress.

If he comes in ignorance, rags and wretchedness he conforms to the popular belief of his character, and in that character he is welcome; but if he shall come as a gentleman, a scholar and a statesman, he is hailed as a contradiction to the national faith concerning his race, and his coming is resented as impudence. In one case he may provoke contempt and derision, but in the other he is an affront to pride and provokes malice.� Frederick Douglass September 25, 1888

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Writer: Irene Council aka Sincere Vessel the Comedienne Galatians 4:14 - Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Jesus Christ himself.

It can be a real burden when someone finds out that they have been stricken with any type of illness, because you don't know how people will react to you or if anyone will help you through your rough times. But in this scripture, Paul was thanking the people of Galatia for opening up to him at a time in his life when ministry was all he lived for. And his illness could have been a distraction, but instead, it made him stay longer with the Galatians which resulted in their friendship.

I have found that God strategically allows us to go through certain life situations that have caused us to build relationships with people we would have otherwise never met. I remember when my Pastor's wife was diagnosed with cancer and she had to go to the hospital for treatments, she found herself ministering to other cancer patients. Some were people who had never stepped a foot in the church, but they watched her positive attitude and how the cancer never affected her appearance. This made them want to know what she was doing differently from them that caused her to look the way she did. This was a door that opened only because of her illness and God's need for her to take the message of healing to those who needed it.

We must become content with what God is allowing us to go through for His purpose. You will be greatly rewarded if you faint not.

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Writer: Simone Malone We are now entering into the holiday season of 2011. We have allotted to be thankful for despite our circumstances and issues we deal with on a daily basis. The holiday season is not always a happy one for many. Feelings of inner dissatisfaction are often associated with the fact that we have set unreasonable and unreachable standards for ourselves. We can be our own worst critics, seeing ourselves as falling far short of the mark and being far less than what we think we should be. The truth is that we are exactly what we are in any given moment, nothing more and nothing less. And therein lies the key to finding spiritual fulfillment. We are beautiful and loveable beings just as we are, with all of our attractive and not so attractive parts. When we are able to let go of our self-judgment and criticism and accept ourselves exactly as we are in the moment, then we open the door to a universe of possibilities.

But to do that, we have to stop worrying and fretting that we are failures or that we aren't good enough.

With self-acceptance, we can bring our focus to what we want and have already, rather than what we don't want and don't have. We can forgive ourselves for past mistakes, shift our outlook in a more positive direction and begin to find new ways to respond to situations in our lives. When we can fill ourselves with positive energy, that inner dissatisfaction seems to drop away.

As we go into this holiday season, I want you to see yourself as the vibrant, wonderful being you are.

And that means that you can give yourself a break and know that the person you are at any given moment is okay. At that point you will be in a better place to handle life's surprises with ease, grace and a sense of spiritual fulfillment. There are two sealed envelopes I want to give you for this season as a gift from God to you. Each contains explicit orders by which your life can be governed. One envelope would contain a list of blessings you can enjoy if you recognized the power of your mind, take possession of it and carefully direct to the goals of your choosing. The other envelope would contain an equally representative list of penalties that you would pay if you failed to recognize this power and use it constructively. Most people want the envelope of blessings without doing the task God has for you.

Take the time during this holiday season and really think about how you can tap into more wisdom and greatness for your life. Loads of love and blessing to you. I aim to sprinkle the feel good flavor on you.

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Writer: Minister Donald E. Graham, Jr

Have you ever looked over your life and wished that you could just start over, to simply hit the “reset” button and make all of your troubles and trials disappear? Well you are not alone. We all have done things that we regret. At some point in our lives we have all disappointed ourselves and the people who love us the most. I’m sure all of us could use a “redo” when we think about those times when we made that one decision that took our lives down an unwanted path. We all have a deep longing for the hope of a new beginning. The Bible points out our fundamental problem…Sin. God’s word says, “For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Sin can be anything - that thought, that word, or that action - that causes us to come up short of God’s standard of perfection. The Bible also says that there is a consequence for every sinner. It says, “For the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23). Fortunately for us, the Bible also offers hope by giving us the good news of salvation in response to the bad news of our sinfulness. When we look at Romans 6:23 again we see that the verse ends this way: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” However God never leaves us without hope as there is a beacon of light in the shadow of our sin. A word that perfectly describes this is grace. Through grace, God has made it possible for the broken-hearted to be comforted. By grace, God has provided life for those who are spiritually dead and separated from Him. In grace, our Father in Heaven calls us to return to Him and enjoy the greatest new beginning of all.

So what does a new beginning look like? It looks like God taking your personal experiences, pain and sufferings, triumphs and tragedies and using them as the catalyst that elevates you to the next level in your life. The apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature…”

Once you accept the Lord into your heart you become eligible for this new beginning in spite of what you have been through, in spite of your present circumstances, your skin color or economic condition. God wants us to know that we all can overcome the mistakes of our past and live the victorious life that He has called us to live through His son Jesus Christ. It doesn’t matter if you have suffered through being molested, abandoned by your parents, drug or alcohol abuse, sexual addiction, divorce, heartache and heartbreak, depression or low self-esteem. No matter what you are going through, just know that the Lord will not put more on you than you can bear.

Now I don’t want to fill your head with the unrealistic notion that your transition will be easy. By no means will it be a cake walk, but you need to know that God promised never to leave us or forsake us. Some would have you believe that all it takes is a handshake from a deacon, or reciting the sinner’s prayer, or enrolling in a new member’s class. The truth of the matter is that when you go home the issues you left there will more than likely still be there waiting for you. The difference is that now you have been endued with power to handle every situation and circumstance you are faced with. You have been given wisdom, knowledge and understanding regarding how to deal with the sins that so easily beset you. Romans 12:2 call it “being transformed by the renewing of your mind.” You will begin to see life through the lenses of the Holy Spirit. There will be a noticeable change in how you speak and how you carry yourself. People who knew you before will be puzzled when they approach you looking for the person they used to know.

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This is all a part of the process of starting over and allowing God to mold and shape you into the person you were always meant to be in His sight. So come boldly now to the throne of grace and exchange your weakness for His strength. Even if you are already saved but the vicissitudes of life have caused you to go astray or backslide. Even if you have just come out of an abusive relationship or bitter divorce, be encouraged in knowing that we serve a God of new beginnings. There is hope for your hurt. There is a place of peace for all of your pain. Jesus said, “Come unto me, all you who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest� (Matthew 11:28). Come to Jesus and experience your very own new beginning.

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“In The Season of Push” Pt. 2 Writer: Pastor Lenora G. Young Scripture: Isaiah 66: 7 – 9 (NKJV) “Before she was in labor, she gave birth; Before her pain came, She delivered a male child. Who has heard such a thing? Who has seen such things? Shall the earth be made to give birth in one day? Or shall a nation be born at once?

For as soon as Zion was in labor, She gave birth to her children. Shall I bring to the time of birth, and not cause delivery?” says the Lord. “Shall I who cause delivery shut up the womb?” says your God. We have learned in our Christian experience from the previous lesson, there is a period of preparation and the process is not also easy. For is has been expressed in the word of God, “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” (II Tim. 2:3) The message bible gives this translation; “When the going gets rough, take it on the chin with the rest of us, the way Jesus did.” We also learned during our preparation, our faith has been put under scrutiny. It’s being challenged – it’s being examined – it’s being tested. “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”

There are some things that we must do in order to go through and complete the process.

Pray Until Something Happens. “That men ought always to pray, and not to faint; Pray without ceasing.” PUSH until the answer is received. PUSH until the strength comes. PUSH until you feel the promise moving in your spirit. “IN THE SEASON OF PUSH.” Let us continue.

Position Yourself Until Something Happens: Position – meaning to place – Solid Stance – Positive Attitude – Straighten Up Your Posture – Arrange Yourself. Taking the right position – taking the right stance. Taking the right posture in the spirit of God. The right posture of the word. Eph. 6:11-17 “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery dart of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:” The God in you is strong, and He wants you strong. So take everything the Lord has set out for you, well made weapons of the best materials. Put them to use so you will be able to POSITION yourself in the Father. Take the weapons God has given, put them to use so you can stand up; (taking the right stance – the right posture) to stand up to everything the enemy throws your way.

Present Until Something Happens – Meaning to offer for acceptance. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto 12

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God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. The greater the battle – the greater the anointing – the greater the battle – the sweeter the VICTORY – the greater the battle – the more beautiful the promise. KEEP ON PUSHNG. “In The Season of PUSH” In the season of presenting yourself unto God. Keep pressing – keep on praying the Lord is nigh (PUSH) – keep praying (PUSH) – He’s heard your cry (PUSH) – for He has promised and His word is true (PUSH) – don’t stop praying – He will answer you.

Persevere Until Something Happens – Meaning to keep trying – stick with it – Continue – don’t give up.

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

Pursue Until Something Happens – Meaning to chase – to hunt – to seek after. As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. – Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Last, but least; Praise Until Something Happens – To commend – to applaud – to extol in words or in song – to magnify – to glorify. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.

(Psalm 86:12, 13) I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

(Psalm 24:1) Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: (Psalm 102:1, 2) Let everything that hath breath, praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 150:6) As Zion travailed, she brought forth her children. Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth?

Shall the earth be made to give birth in one day? Or shall a nation be born at once? The Message Bible gives this translation “Do I open the womb and not deliver the baby? Do I? the One who delivers babies shut the womb?” He is not an Indian giver. This is a comparison with the human birth process.

This teaches two lessons; 1. No birth can come until labor pains have occurred. 2. When labor occurs, birth will surely follow. The point is that our suffering will end with delivery. The Lord will not impregnate, allow labor to be induced and not deliver the promise. “After that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. Fight the good fight of faith “In The Season of PUSH” Some through the water – Some through the flood – Some through the fire – But all through the blood – Some through great sorrow – But God gives a song – In the night season and all the day long.

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If you would like to comment on any article or converse with a writer send your comments to agreengap@aol.com your comments will be forwarded to the writer of the article.

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Writer Quida Harding If you understand intentional choir ministry, you can process that singing is not limited to the address of your church building, but also serves beyond the doors. In this phase of development, one can see that in singing we serve to meet needs…whether it is to encourage someone, to help win souls for Christ, or be obvious in support for the vision of the congregation and pastor. If that description does not work for you, then remember the main ingredient to help eliminate slavery in America.

While passing through this expression of life, a main topic for discussion centers on the purpose, and duties of true ministry; and especially choirs and specifically, the Choir in the Black Church. How many of us see ourselves as transforming agents?

I have a very dear friend 1 who came up with a brilliant answer to my question. In her illustration, (if the right perspective rules), she noted how a person may come to worship, but still focused on the routines and chores of the day, and even once inside the sanctuary, with the same mindset which is certainly not worship. What then, happens to change mindsets? What is it that must be done to help persons receive the Word from the Lord? The answer given is that ministry should be the bridge to help those who came to worship forget about the norm of the day, and concentrate on the “medicine of the Word” for the week. This is the responsibility of the song, dance, or even dramatic entity, In Choir Ministry Preparation, (rehearsal), I challenge persons to talk about the importance of this obligation, so that when the messenger from the Lord does speak, the waiting congregation is ready to hear, listen, AND have what is needed to make it through the upcoming week.

Singing in the choir is not something to do just because one just likes to sing. It is an action where persons can sense, witness and know that God is in control. Ministry through music can help people to see this by being a transforming agent to hear what the Lord has to say to them “today.” Not only are techniques reviewed to keep voices ready for the musical challenges, but singing to receive feedback from other choir members provides better insight for what the congregation sees.

What about you? Do you have an untapped skill to help persons decide to believe in Christ….enough to become a disciple? Have you found a ministry where you can serve to the best of your ability? Oh?????

You don’t know?...

If you don’t have an answer, you may end up in the Land of Regret…..this place has no zip code, but the cities are real……Should have, Wish I’d, and Could Have…...because by then….it may be too late to do anything for the One Who did everything for you. Take some time to be alone, reflect tap into that part of you that makes a difference in the lives of others beside yourself.

These are some of the things I think about while sitting at the table. Jude 24.

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Reverend Lisa M. Weaver, American Catholic Univerity.

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Submitted by: Allen Green I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, and my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I’ve aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly stuff that I do not need. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 & 70's.

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set.

They, too, will get old. I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong.

I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day (if I feel like it).

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Author unknown Submitted by Mary Daniels

What do you do as you are walking along a sidewalk or across a parking lot and see a penny lying on the pavement? Be honest as you consider your answer.

I can tell you what I used to do: I used to pass it by. I can explain why I did too: A penny just isn't worth picking up off the pavement. Unless, of course, it happens to be a 1909 S VDB, which may be worth over $1000, depending upon its condition. But the chances of finding that vintage penny are very remote.

A penny costs the government more to produce than it is really worth. So, I just walked on past and ignored it. I didn't even stop to pick up nickels and dimes. But, if I saw a paper bill I would always bend down and pick it up. In fact the most I have ever found at one time was a twenty-dollar bill. But, a penny - well, I just didn't need it.

Besides that, there is something belittling about bending over to pick up pennies, etc. off the ground.

What would people think of me if they saw me picking up a penny? I can tell you what I imagined they would be thinking: "He must be desperate for cash if he has to pick up pennies from the ground." And, that may be the reason most of us don't stop to pick up pennies. We just don't want folks to look at us and think such a thing. After all, we need to put on an appearance of successfulness.

Successfulness? Yes, there is such a word. To most folks it means they have done everything right. They seldom make mistakes. And, the mistakes they do make aren't anything to be concerned about. In fact, they are so successful that they are turning out to be BETTER than most other folks. And so, especially if you are walking across the church parking lot after Sunday morning church, don't allow yourself appear less than others around you by stopping to pick up loose change from off the ground.

I can relate to all of those feelings. If you will be honest with yourself, you can also relate to those feelings. As I have traveled through this short life I have been blessed to be able to relate to most of the same feelings that all sinners encounter. I must be honest with myself and my Savior: I am a sinner and I know all the excuses and pretenses of a sinner.

There are two basic reasons why most folks don't stop to pick up a penny from the off the ground: A penny is practically worthless, and, it would create an image about yourself which you do not want others to embrace (Even if it were the truth).

So, what changed my mind about picking up pennies?

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When I worked at the local Wal-Mart store God blessed me, again, by allowing me to work under a department manager who is one of the best Christians I have known. Not only was he a great mentor and teacher, he was an excellent example of how to live a life that pleases God. He told me the following story, which is very likely a true story.

A man and his wife were once invited out to dinner by the man's employer. This was going to be a very important affair for the couple because they felt honored about the invitation. This particular employer was enormously wealthy. His financial status soared far above that of the employee and his wife. In fact, the couple became more nervous about the occasion as it approached with each passing day.

When the day of the dinner-date finally arrived the employer met the couple near the entrance to one of the most exclusive restaurants in the area. Following a formal greeting, the three of them proceeded toward the door with the wealthy employer leading the way. After a few steps the employer stopped in his tracks and appeared to be quietly staring at the ground in front of him.

After nearly bumping into the man, the couple stopped short, wondering what may be wrong. After a few seconds the employer bent over, picking up a single penny which lay on the sidewalk. He brushed it off, placed it into his pocket, and continued toward the door. The group was quickly seated and their order was taken.

As they waited for the food to be served, and, in an attempt to relieve an obviously tense atmosphere, the wife of the employee jokingly made the following comment: "I noticed that you didn't walk past that penny on the ground outside. Is that how you have become so wealthy?"

The employer smiled kindly, reached into his pocket, and brought forth the redeemed penny, laying it on the table-top.

"Read what it says." He asked. The couple leaned forward, reaching for the penny, and pulled it closer.

"In God We Trust" said the wife. Then the employer explained that he didn't become wealthy by picking up pennies. He picked up pennies, and any other lost coins because of those words. He explained that God's name is holy. (Remember the words to The Lord's Prayer?) If we shouldn't use it in vain we should also make sure that it is not walked upon by passers-by. But, he also explained another reason for pausing a short time before retrieving the penny from the ground.

"It is as if God has dropped a message into my pathway and He wants to remind me to keep my trust in Him." He told how he always said a short prayer of thanks, as a reply to God's loving message. The employer went on to explain, as they enjoyed the dinner and the evening together, that a single penny can become worth more than gold or silver in strengthening our relationship with our Heavily Father.

That's the story, in so many words, that my department manager told me about why he also stops to pick up pennies. And, that's why I now also pick up pennies from off the ground. I doubt that it will ever make me wealthy but I know it will make me richer. And I want my relationship with the Lord to be as rich as possible.

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Writer: Phill Hughes Hello again. In this edition, I’d like to do something a little different. I found this chart on the Harvard School of Public Health website. It offers you a template to design your meals by. You may want to cut it out and post it on your refrigerator.

Since we’re moving into the cold and flu season, here are few immunity boosters that will help you keep your defenses up against the bug this season.

First olive oil; because it’s full of monounsaturated fats, which help strengthen the immune system.

Second, oranges. Oranges, because they are rich in vitamin C. Third, broccoli. Broccoli, because it’s full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Lastly, turkey. Yes, the dark and light portions, because they are rich in the mineral zinc.

Make sure to include the above foods in your diet this winter season and have a happy and thankful one.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 19Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

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Mr. Anthony Simone Malone, the General Manager of FM HDMS Radio, A Digital Internet radio station, has become a force to be reckoned with. His journey to some type of entertainment evolved from his humble beginnings at the tender age of 15 in the Church Of God In Christ. It was then that the desire to work in radio and television broadcasting was starting to become more of a quest. Though he was the youngest of five brothers and one sister, he never allowed his older siblings to dictate a journey for him.

He wanted to fulfill his own desire and he held on tightly to that thought, despite what his older siblings tried to persuade him to become. When his age was applicable to attend college, Mr. Malone saw and felt the need to seize the opportunity to seek further development of becoming a radio personality.

Mr. Malone attended Shaw University based in Raleigh, North Carolina where he studied an Arts degree in Mass Communications. While studying at Shaw University Mr. Malone gained experience as an intern personality for 88.9 F.M. as a Gospel, Jazz, and Smooth R&B host. The vigilant person that he was, Mr. Malone used that opportunity to open up another door as a host. He hosted a gospel music video cable show titled “Sounds of Gospel.� At this point of his studies at Shaw University, Mr. Malone was composed with the elements of what was seen in a person with a well experienced array of professionalism in radio personality.

He became a person that knew the talk and walk the walk, which led him to become the anchor of the morning news at Kent State School of Journalism in Kent, Ohio. Here, Mr. Malone received several recognitions from reliable members of the staff that were more privileged in ranking. Some of these recognitions resulted into awards for the contribution of his progressive and loyal efforts as a trainee.

Mr. Malone knew that this fortune of good recognition would not last forever, due to the fact that he was still in attendance for his major at Shaw University.

To them he was an intern but to himself it was his time to shine and he made good note of it. While he was hot and shined like a bright star at night, a resemblance of the person he is today, he made the best of every situation that was possible to him; including sending out his polished resume to companies that were looking for broadcasters.

His polished resume was just in time as he was finishing with his Bachelor Degree and looking forward to a promising career. Mr. Simone Malone landed his first job as a broadcaster in 1987 at 800 A.M. WTMR based in Camden, New Jersey. Though it was not the position he wanted, being a fill-in announcer provided him with the opportunity to develop himself with well-rounded experiences as a radio personnel. Despite his 20

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knowledge, recognitions, and awards during his college years he still had a lot to learn. He later developed sufficient experience at a gradually pace and was presented with the opportunity to host and produce his personal Gospel radio program, “The Malone Gospel Show”. This opportunity of success impacted Mr. Malone's own thoughts with enough confidence to make a greater move. He decided to start a new journey by returning to Philadelphia, PA; the city of Brotherly Love.

In May of 1995, Mr. Malone worked as an Air personality, Music Director, and Special Assistant to the General Manager of 88.1 WPEB-F.M. In the year 2000, he Co-hosted a Philadelphia Gospel music video cable show titled, “VTV Gospel, Video to Vision,” a path that he knew quite well. As a Broadcaster, Educator, and Counselor, one of his professional goals is to inspire and motivate young people. A part of this motivation can be found in the book authored by Mr. Malone. The book “How to Become an Effective Radio Broadcaster through WWAM Radio Productions,” is an effective teaching tool used in his broadcast communications training classes.

After cultivating over 25 years of experience within a field that he is passionate about, today you can see why he is someone to be reckoned with. Mr. Malone is currently the owner of WWAM Radio Productions, General Manager and Producer of www.FMHDMSRADIO.net, radio station based in Philadelphia and Delaware, and a Forensic Intensive Case Manager. In addition to his numerous radio broadcasting credits, Mr. Simone Malone has interviewed many national big time recording artists on his show. He has effectively spoken at various colleges and universities on contemporary subjects about radio broadcasting. He has been featured in Who’s Who in Professional Management, World Wide Gospel Truth Magazine, and Philly TV Channel 7 and in 2008 “The Dr. Faye Show” on Comcast Channel 80 in Philadelphia. People fully understand that he is the radio Feel Good Man, as his life’s story and personal objectives inspire others. Mr. Simone Malone is truly living out his passion; a respected and trust voice in radio.

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Writer: Monica F. Hudson (Member of Allen Temple A.M.E. Church, Pine Bluff, Ark, 12th Episcopal District) As the crowd pressed in on Jesus he said, "these are evil times, and this evil generation keeps asking me to show them a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah. What happened to him was a sign to the people of Nineveh that God has sent him. What happens to me will be a sign that God has sent me, the Son of Man, to the people.

In turning to the passage we find Jesus in conversation about the seasonal changes in man's spiritual life using the earthly seasons to demonstrate the seasonal tides of man's changing world and even man himself, the temperature of a fluctuating world unsteady and destined to fall victim of the worldly chaos about to unfold. In today's society the attitudes of the multitudes of unfaithful people, the ungodly leaning towards the riches of life, they have been blinded by the darkness of greed and the dumping ground of injustice towards God. The global society is turning more and more to worldly access and not to spiritual wisdom.

Proverbs 2:2-6 tune your ears to wisdom and concentrate on understanding. Search for her as you would money or hidden treasure. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants Wisdom. The thought of compassion and humility seems to be changing with the seasons. Those unaware of this spiritual tide turning the world as wickedly as in the days Jesus spoke of during the times the city of Nineveh was about to be destroyed because of the people's wickedness and boldness to live a selfish and defiled life, so we find the state of the world today, not attempting to identify Jesus as the Source* of theses blessings and peace in the mist of onflict, in the global arena people have lost hope, peace, joy but more importantly love for their fellowman, all the characteristics of Jesus and therefore bring life into more darkness, obscurity, anger and hardness of belief to God's presence, the Good News as to the divine plan mapped out by God of man's redemption through his son, Jesus Christ.

Galatians 1:3-4 May the grace and peace be yours from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. He died for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from the world in which we live. That is why all glory belongs to God through all the ages of eternity. Amen. Identifying where we are within the worldly seasons of life, in the mist of our storms, our trials it is the believers confidence that Jesus gives a much more optimistic look that faith still works, that his joy doesn't fail and no matter the time of the season he is still sitting on the throne. Jesus showed his power and his might by coming into the world as flesh but miraculous sign that Jesus showed wasn't at the cross but that he lay dead for three days in a tomb, by the power and promise of the Father to which he gave to the Son, that he be raised in all majesty; indwelling spirit and eternal power to live again, through this Resurrection, we his children also live again in him as we find in the book of Jonah 1:17 Now the Lord had arranged for a giant fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights.

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Looking at seasonal changed in the world let us remember that it is he who directs his plan that we may find and have peace, this is the gift given of the Son of Man that no matter what is going on in your life in these difficult days and seasonal changes you will always be surrounded with peace and the love of the Son, Jesus Christ.

TYREE A.M.E. CHURCH 3800 HAMILTON STREET, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19104 DR. ESTHER L. SEALES, PASTOR MORNING SERVICES 11:00 AM ALL ARE INVITED 24

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Written by: Carl C. Gable III, MD A brief look at the number of cumulative years that the average American spends doing certain activities over the course of a lifetime reveals some interesting numerical figures. For example, it is estimated that over the course of a lifetime, we spend an average of 26 years sleeping, 6 years eating, 12 years waiting in line or at a traffic light, and 1 year looking for lost possessions.

Assuming a standard 8 hour workday, a 5 day work week, and steady employment from age 18 to 65, the average American spends just over 10 years of his or her life at work! Given this staggering figure, along with the socioeconomic ramifications that accompany such a decision, choosing a career is arguably one of the most important decisions one will ever make. For anyone seeking employment, but especially to young people graduating from high school and/or entering college, the following thoughts are offered with regard to making this decision.

First, ask yourself the question: “What do I really enjoy doing?” Nearly twenty years ago, a good friend of mine made a statement that I believe best describes one of the characteristics of the ideal job when he said “I just can’t believe they pay me to do this every day.” This statement of course reflected the fact that he enjoyed his job so much that he would likely continue to do it, perhaps as a hobby, even if he weren’t paid to do so. Is there an occupation that you would similarly look forward to doing each day of your life for the next thirty to forty years if necessary? What occupation would you enjoy doing so much that even if you weren’t paid to do it, you would still enjoy doing it as a hobby? Choosing a career that largely includes the answer to this question helps to ensure that you will enjoy your job for many years to come.

Second, realize that all of us have been blessed with natural abilities (talents) and use this fact to your advantage. Choosing a career based solely on what you enjoy doing without a natural ability to execute its required functions often leads to mediocre performance at best. As an example, though I enjoy art and have a tremendous amount of respect for those who are able to transfer images from their mind to the canvas, I am very aware that I have no talent or natural ability to execute in that particular field. It would be no less than a disaster for me to declare artistry as my chosen profession given that I lack the ability to draw. Though I could practice and become somewhat proficient at drawing, I would likely never achieve the success at it that someone who devoted the same amount of practice to the craft but who was also gifted in that profession. I would be better off if, from the start, I chose a career that included the use of my natural abilities. With the same amount of practice, I would be improving upon a skill that I already did well. With this in mind, take an inventory of the things you do well. If you then merge the answer to the first question mentioned above with your natural abilities, you will increase the likelihood that you will not only enjoy your chosen profession, but also excel in it. It should be noted that even if you are not aware of your own natural abilities or talents, you can often discover them by listening to and observing others around you to whom they may be more obvious.

The musician who receives a standing ovation after each performance may need to consider that he or she possesses a talent in the musical arena.

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Next, after you merge what you enjoy doing with your natural abilities, consider choosing a career that is and will remain in high demand for a long period of time. To put it another way, consider a career in which you provide a service that not just anybody else can perform and that a machine or computer cannot currently perform alone. Many of the foreign and domestic manufacturing jobs from decades ago have been replaced by computers and machines that can do the same job with much more speed and effectiveness. Though this has angered many individuals, it remains a fact that is not likely to change.

Technology has always and will continue to advance. It is therefore incumbent upon us to become and remain informed of recent technological advances not only for the purpose of choosing a career but also for the purpose of remaining relevant within our career choice. Choosing to do less than this may result in a very short career.

Finally, “whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might� (Ecclesiastes 9:10). This biblical admonition is self-explanatory. Though it can be applied to any aspect of life, when applied to the occupational domain, it urges us to strive to do the best we possibly can at our chosen profession. If you choose to become a teacher, then strive to be the best teacher you can possibly be. If you choose to become an automobile mechanic, learn how to service cars to the best of your ability. By applying all of these principles, it is my hope that you will find great enjoyment and satisfaction in your job, that you will find a job that utilizes your natural skills and abilities, that you will find a job that provides a needed service to others, and that you will perform your job to the best of your abilities.

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Bill Board Top Ten Gospel Songs 1. I NEED YOUR GLORY – ERNEST PUGH 2. IN THE MIDDLE – ISAAC CARREE 3. SPIRITUAL – DONALD LAWRENCE & COMPANY 4. BE STILL – YOLANDA ADAMS 5. I SMILL – KIRK FRANKLIN 6. HE HAS HIS HANDS ON YOU – MARVIN SAPP 7. SWEETER – KIM BURRELL 8. NOBODY GREATER –VASHAWN MITCHELL 9. OVER & OVER – TRINITY 5:7 featuring P.J. MORTON 10. BACK TO YOU – DORINDA CLARK COLE

Bill Board Top Ten Jazz Songs 1. SPIN – BONEY JAMES 2. EASY COME EASY GO – PAUL HARDCASTLE 3. FRIDAY NIGHT –JONATHAN FRITZEN 4. HOT SAUCE – JESSY J 5. BOOM TOWN –RICHARD ELLIOT 6. FEELS SO GOOD – JONATHAN BUTLER 7. MASSIVE TRANSIT – CINDY BRADLEY 8. LOVELY DAY – JILL SCOTT 9. THE LADY IN MY LIFE – GEORGE BENSON 10. PUSH – JACKIEM JOYNER

Bill Board Top Ten Hip Hop and R & B Songs 1. SHE WILL – LIL WAYNE featuring DRAKE 2. HEADLINES – DRAKE 3. NI**AS IN PARIS – JAY Z KANYE WEST 4. THAT WAY – WALE featuring JEREMIH & RICK ROSS 5. MARVIN & CHARDONNAY – BIG SEAN featuring KANYE WEST & ROSCOE DASH 6. WET THE BED – CHRIS BROWN featuring LUDACRIS 7. PARTY – BEYONCE featuring ANDRE 3000 8. MARVINS ROOM – DRAKE 9. OTIS – JAY Z KANYE WEST featuring OTIS REDDING 10. MRS. RIGHT – MINDLESS BEHAVIOR featuring DIGGY

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