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July 2016

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The Power of Leadership

Divine Connection Ministries Reaching the Lost at Any Cost

By Pastor Gene Johnson and Lady Gail Johnson Pleasant Hill Church of Deliverance (PHCOD) is a church that believes in reaching the community.

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PAGES 14-15

A Message from Mayor Sylvester Turner Power of Leadership

By Sheldon Theragood A positive powerful leader is a person of influence.

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d-mars.com Congratulates The Power of Leadership

By Pastor Ogletree John Maxwell, a leadership guru, proclaims this philosophy: “Everything rises and falls on leadership.”

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Harris County Commissioner District 139 State Precinct 1 Rodney Ellis Representative Jarvis Johnson

Senator-Elect Borris Miles

All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.

— Martin Luther King, Jr.

Over 13 years in business

July 2016 3

Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

“The Power of Leadership” is the theme for this issue of the d-mars.com Community Journal. Though you may not realize it, you are a leader. People are watching you, and you may not even know it. A leader doesn’t have to be in the front on a stage or have a fancy title. A leader is someone in the community making a difference. We are all leaders. We all can make a positive impact. We all can make a difference.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.J. Johnson C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black

This issue has a special message from Houston’s leader, Mayor Sylvester Turner. Mayor Turner’s message to Houstonians is on the latest events that have impacted our country. He is a proud Houstonian and is a great example of leadership. He has an outstanding record of public service. Mayor Turner is working hard for Houston, and invites the community and Houston leadership to help keep Houston a great place to live.

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Charlette Washington

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tashara Callaway

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Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

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Charlette Jackson Pastor Gene Johnson Lady Gail Johnson Mayor Sylvester Turner Shanedria Wagner Stella Alexander Sheldon Theragood Shelondria Peavy Linda Lindsay Ash Davito Pastor Ogletree Tammi Durden Art McElroy d-mars.com News Provider

Contents

d-mars.com Spotlight on Barbara Jordan Endeavors.................................................................................................................................................... 4 Getting Real About Our Community....................................................................................................................................................................................6 Divine Connection Ministries Reaching the Lost at Any Cost.....................................................................................................................................8 Houston History 101: Juneteenth in July...........................................................................................................................................................................10 Get out of the Rut....................................................................................................................................................................................................................10 Power of Leadership...............................................................................................................................................................................................................12 Leading from Behind...............................................................................................................................................................................................................13 A Message from Mayor Sylvester Turner.....................................................................................................................................................................14-15 The Political Dynamic and Three Great Political Leaders.............................................................................................................................................16 Creating a Legacy Through Exceptional Leadership..................................................................................................................................................... 17 Simple Tips to Help You Design Your Life.........................................................................................................................................................................18 Top 5 Most Distracted Behaviors and How to Change Them.....................................................................................................................................18 Why Your Employer Wants You to Volunteer..................................................................................................................................................................20 The Power of a Star.................................................................................................................................................................................................................21 The Power of Leadership......................................................................................................................................................................................................22 What Does That REALLY Mean?...........................................................................................................................................................................................22 Here Comes the Judge!.........................................................................................................................................................................................................26

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “Power at its best is love implementing the demand of justice.”

- Martin Luther King, Jr.

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4 July 2016

d-mars.com Spotlight on Barbara Jordan Endeavors By d-mars.com News Provider

B

arbara Jordan said, "One thing is clear to me: We, as human beings, must be willing to accept people who are different from ourselves." Putting Barbara Jordan’s words into action, Thelma Scott founded the Barbara Jordan Endeavors Corporation (BJEC), a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization that provides scholarships and services for students with emotional, mental, and physical disabilities. This organization encourages, empowers, and equips students to become self-sufficient, discover their maximum potential, and achieve their academic goals. BJEC recently hosted its 2nd Annual Blue Carpet Scholarship Awards Celebration.

BJEC was founded in December of 2000. In Mrs. Scott’s research, she discovered students with disabilities throughout school districts in Houston and the surrounding Gulf Coast areas.

Also the CEO of the organization, Mrs. Scott continuously dedicates her time and passion as an advocate and mentor with the help of volunteers to reduce the dropout and suicide rate for students with disabilities. Her desire is to help them discover and refine their own personal disabilities or unique abilities.

BJEC envisions a school atmosphere that does not tolerate or accept bullying and intimidation, which can affect a student with unique abilities to cease personal educational goals and sometimes drop out of high school.

BJEC educate students, parents, and extended family through their monthly workshops and round-table mentoring sessions to secure and develop independent productive citizens who realize their potential as positive contributors and valuable individuals in the community. What is special about

BJEC, is that it goes beyond a student’s high school years, also following them throughout their college career.

BJEC’s Annual Blue Carpet Scholarship Awards Celebration is just one of the fundraising efforts that help support the organization.

This year’s recipients were: • Da’Jeanette Eze, BJHS

• Marvin Mays, BJHS • Solaminta Lathan, BJHS • Tondresha Burton, Wheatley HS • Anthony Young, Wheatley HS • Darius Ross, Kashmere HS • Damiriah Hendrix-Pruitt, Kashmere HS • Dion Harrison, North Forest HS • Brittany Parker, Yates HS • Victoria Brown, BT Washington HS

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• Ezekiel Kelley, Worthing HS • Payton Rodriguez, Westfield HS • Elijah Robinson, Westfield HS • Nia Hamilton, Aldine HS • Cristian Roman, Aldine HS For more about www. barbarajordanambassadors.org.

Source: Barbara Jordan Endeavors

July 2016  5

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6 July 2016

Getting Real About Our Community

By Charlotte Jackson Contributing Writer

W

hile recently working in our community, I started noticing more and more people not just standing on the corners asking for money, but more and more people on the streets. I have been aware of the homeless in Houston and surrounding areas, as I have been volunteering with many nonprofits over the years and living in Harris County since 1971. Yet, in the past few weeks that I have been driving with a ride-share company, my trips have taken me outside of my comfort zone of IH-610 East Loop and out along I-10 East. As I have traveled, I have been noticing more and more signs and more and more people out there.

One rider asked me, “Where do they come from, and why are there so many more than ever before?” I reminded him

that with over 1,000 people moving to our city weekly and with so many layoffs, it is just something that happens.

After that conversation, I started keeping a journal of those displaced that I would see, keeping a record of times and places. My next step was to visit a website that had been on my mind and heart for some time (www.homelesshouston. org), to see if there were articles explaining this rise of the displaced. For those of you who are not aware, there are many resources to help those facing the issue of homelessness. I continue to ask God to open my heart and mind to find ways

to share how we can all do something to help the homeless in our community.

Many of you have been reading my articles with d-mars.com since 2009. Others have met me through church, work, nonprofits, and friends, realizing that I am a true believer in that nothing happens by accident, and there is always a purpose behind every step of the journey.

In 1995, I found myself at the end of my second marriage. I met with my associate pastor and explained that I had located a safe and affordable place for my children and me to move into, but I needed his help in arranging for

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volunteers to help with the move. We agreed on the date and time that I would need them, but unfortunately he forgot to line up the volunteers because he had been busy. I cannot begin to explain that sinking feeling. However, as I felt a sense of turmoil trying to raise up in my heart, I heard God telling me to contact Hugh Young, who had a ministry for the homeless. Hugh never asked any questions. He just told me to keep packing and keep praying. Within an hour, he showed up with another friend and 10 homeless individuals who he was assisting through his ministry. Within a few short hours, we were moved to safety. Perhaps this is the reason I have so much love and compassion for the homeless. It has been nothing but God putting it on my heart to connect and serve. Also, God has been a definite reason why I have joined St. John’s Downtown in their efforts to love and serve the homeless, hungry, and hurting.

So here I find myself 21 years later, being concerned about the homeless community more than ever. I want to help others realize that no child ever says that they want to grow up and be homeless. I want others to see that many of the homeless are educated and have had successful careers, but through the journey of their lives, they have ended up in a situation that may have been beyond their control.

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8 July 2016

Divine Connection Ministries Reaching the Lost at Any Cost

By Pastor Gene Johnson and Lady Gail Johnson Contributing Writer

P

leasant Hill Church of Deliverance (PHCOD) is a church that believes in reaching the community.

They are there to “reach the lost at any cost,” says the leadership. Pastor Gene Johnson and Lady Gail Johnson (Pastor and Lady Johnson) have a passion and deep love for others that runs through their veins, which provokes results. Their passion has commissioned them to birth ministries that feed and clothe the homeless, reach inmates in prison, and help battered women.

PHCOD makes every possible effort to give God’s love, encouragement, and prayer to people who are in need of physical and spiritual healing. They are constantly finding innovative ways to aid the needy through prayer, food, or emotional support.

The PHCOD Outreach Team currently devotes consistent quality service to several women and men in shelters. Their goal is to help those who have been battered, neglected, and abused. They have made a tremendous impact in the lives of the women at shelters such as Angela’s House and The Bridge Over Troubled Waters. Countless hours are spent collecting donations and providing

spiritual enrichment. They strive to illuminate the truth that GOD has better for them and that their current situation is just a testimony in its infancy, a test. To take the effort a step further, transportation has been made available, so the women can attend Sunday morning worship services. Cenikor of Deer Park, TX, is another foundation that’s dear to the heart of the DC Outreach team. They have participated in housing some of the Cenikor program graduates and host the Cenikor graduation at their LaPorte, TX, worship location.

Giving to others is a part of who the PHCOD family is. Every year in October, PHCOD has the Fight Like a Girl (FLAG) Conference. They take

this time to highlight breast cancer awareness and domestic violence. The FLAG conference is also dedicated to helping women from all walks of life recharge spiritually, emotionally, and socially. The conference consists of amazing speakers, workshops, ministering through dance, and other experiences to push you closer to Christ and your purpose. The PHCOD church family sponsors many of the women from the shelters to attend the conference. They provide transportation and everything needed for them to have a first class experience to take in all that this conference offers.

The holidays can be quite rough for those who have lost loved ones. Pastor Johnson knows this all too well.

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His mother passed away days before his birthday, and her celebration of life took place on his birthday. Pastor Johnson decided to take a positive route for dealing with her absence.

He decided to give to others. Christmas morning for Pastor and Lady Johnson is giving gifts and food to the homeless. However, they don’t do this alone. Many of the members decided to get involved. This has become one of the many traditions for PHCOD. PHCOD is a church that is about love in action. When they say they love and care for you, their words hold weight. It’s great to have intentions and say beautiful words, but the words are empty, if there is not demonstration.

PHCOD has now expanded their territory by creating a 2nd location in Katy, TX. This location is called Divine Connection (DC-Katy). PHCOD is now a church with multiple locations, but one heart that is filled with the love of Christ and a passion for the community. DC-Katy is growing at a phenomenal rate! The people of Katy, TX, have embraced DC-Katy.

PHCOD and DC-Katy are definitely putting actions with words. They are determined to impact the lives of others, and they give all the glory to God. For they know it is God who makes everything they do possible. For more, please visit them on the web at www. stopbythehill.org.

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10 July 2016

Houston History 101: Juneteenth in July

By Shanedria Wagner Contributing Writer

T

hough we’re in July, this article was penned on the eve of Juneteenth weekend, one and one-half centuries after Texas slaves learned of their emancipation, one week before Jack Yates High School celebrates its ninetieth year, and two weeks after Roots aired on several networks and sparked boycotts.

Pensive like all culturally conscious educators, I ponder both the progress and problems of people of color on national, state, and local levels. While it is impossible to overlook the tremendous accomplishments of successful young people, it is equally difficult to ignore the gaping gaps in educational quality that obstruct instead of instruct. Even at the height of the information age, student performance continues to plummet for too many.

How does this relate to Juneteenth?

On the surface, student achievement is determined by skill mastery, but at the core of our challenges is the mystery about our history that prevents many of our youth from knowing about and clinging to their roots.

The consequent lack of foundation lowers motivation, leaving many physically liberated but intellectually incarcerated.

Juneteenth celebrations should not be limited to social gatherings and barbecue bashes; they are, on the other hand, annual opportunities to feed

Get out of the Rut

I

By Stella Alexander Contributing Writer

n my life I have been in a rut that felt like a deep dark pit filled with venomous snakes. When people looked into my life they could not see and did not know I was in such a painful and dark place. From the outside my life looked good. I had a career, wonderful friends, and a loving family.

However, there was so much more I wanted in my life. I wanted to be with the right person. I wanted someone who would romance me, care for me, and make me happy. I wanted what I saw with other people who were in what appeared to be loving relationships.

Yes, I had job, family, and friends. I was happy with what I had. But I wasn’t

our young people the little-known facts that could make a huge impact on their self-perception. We cannot teach that which we do not know. In an effort to generate much-needed conversation about our current conditions, let’s take a pop quiz about Houston’s past.

Where was the “Harlem of the South”? In what part of Houston did newly freed slaves from plantations along the Brazos River settle in 1865?

In what bustling area of Houston did thousands of emancipated slaves settle after the Civil War? Where

the happiest I could be, because I believed things outside of me made me happy. I didn’t know that I held the power within me to bring forth happiness in my life. I needed to make a decision to be happy within. I needed to choose that I was enough to bring forth joy and happiness. Another person did not have the power to make me happy. I believe the decision starts with you. You must make that choice. I was allowing what I saw outside of me to determine where my state of happiness came from.

I allowed my mind to be contaminated with the thought of until I had a companion or boyfriend, I could not have happiness and would be incomplete. I laid around on weekends and moped like a sick puppy. Life was passing me by, and time moved on as I built my life around something that was out of my control and timing. Can you see I put my own self in that rut? All the while I only had to make a decision to look within.

I wasn’t even worth meeting at that time. I would have put such a burden on any man who came into my life, because it would have been his job to make me happy. That’s what I believed. I made myself so miserable moping around believing life is not fun unless I am living it with a man, when it wasn’t the appointed

was Houston’s first venue for Negro Major League baseball games? What area of Houston predated Third Ward as the nucleus of the AfricanAmerican community? Where was Houston’s first African-American Baptist Church established in 1866?

Where have 450 grave sites of former slaves been discovered, yet ignored in the name of land development?

Two words answer these and many more questions about a unique aspect of Houston’s history: Freedman’s Town, located in the heart of Fourth Ward Houston.

time to be with him. I just wasn’t ready.

I never asked myself what makes me happy. If you have never asked yourself that, then how are you supposed to figure it out? When I understood the need to ask myself that question and go deep inside of me to find the answer, it wasn’t simple or easy. It meant spending time with me. It meant asking myself what I wanted. It meant exploring things I thought were not me. Turns out a lot of what I resisted is what now makes me the happiest. That’s what happens when you don’t love yourself. It’s hard to make yourself happy.

When I started looking inside and

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While some Houstonians, both natives and newcomers, are familiar with this “Historic District” that was the birthplace of Houston College (which evolved into Texas Southern University), some have never heard of the former stomping ground of the legendary John Henry “Jack” Yates, who left an indelible mark on the world. Why? The short answer is that the preservation of some aspects of history pale in comparison to the conservation of others. This disparity in teaching history necessitates efforts to ensure that we preserve the legacy of people of color who are often omitted from curriculum.

One amazing effort to preserve Fourth Ward’s oral history is the Ferrell. E. Phelps Freedman’s Town Documentary, which was released June 18th at the Ensemble Theatre at its premier commemorative exhibit.

Phelps, a highly sought after photographer with an excellent eye, blends photography and film to capture and reenact the rise and fall of this once bustling heartbeat of Black Houston.

This unprecedented project is a manifestation of Phelps’ dream to showcase the spirit of the town’s heyday, document oral history omitted from school textbooks, recreate what has been destroyed over time, and revive a dying community worthy of remembrance.

The people of Freedman’s Town rebuilt its foundation with bricks; we must rebuild our base with education.

For information about the documentary, visit www.ferrellphelps.com.

asking myself questions, I realized I hadn’t truly been loving me. What a wake-up call. I had unforgiveness to deal with from past hurts. I couldn’t move forward into a wonderful healthy loving relationship with someone until I was freed. It’s virtually impossible to be truly happy when you haven’t figured out how to forgive the past and to love yourself first. I realized it was okay to put me first.

Putting yourself first and loving yourself seems like a big task to undertake.

Let me assure you, it’s totally doable, and it is not being selfish. It starts with figuring out what truly makes you happy.

Simply reading this might be all you need to get started falling in love with you. Also, you might have realized you could use some support in this area. You could use another person to guide you on this very important journey to selflove. If that’s the case, let’s start coaching or working together in some way.

I’ve climbed out of the pit, and I am loving me daily. I am living life with purpose. When my special someone comes, he will find me whole, healthy, and HAPPY! Stella Alexander is a poet, author, and speaker. Visit her on the web at www.stellaalexander.com.

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12 July 2016

Power of Leadership

By Sheldon Theragood

A

Contributing Writer

positive powerful leader is a person of influence.

He or she is one that is a change agent, teachable, a role model, and a mentor. Leadership is an important role. A teacher, a coach, and the President of the United States, are all examples of positive powerful leaders. All of these people have played or currently play a pertinent role in someone’s life.

These great people, as well as my parents, paved the way for me to become a leader and to impact someone’s life.

Becoming a leader has been a very rewarding experience. The role I play in my career assisting the homeless to re-establish their lives and my role as a mentor for youth in the community not only empowers me, but fuels me with the power to consistently encourage others to better their lives. I was taught so

many great things in life, that I want to share these great teachings with others. I want to be a leader that is honest, available, teachable, trusting, and a role model.

Working with the Houston Police Department Homeless Outreach Team, I guide a specific group of people in the right direction every day. Some of the homeless citizens I speak with either want help, don’t want help, or are just not ready. And the ones that are not usually ready at the time, I still leave the door open for them until they are ready

to make that decision. I always make sure that I lead them in the right direction, just like I would want someone to lead me. They see that it’s more than just a job to me. I find it a great privilege to serve in this way, because they are putting all of their faith in me to help them re-enter into society. In my nonprofit TheraGOOD DEEDS, it’s the same way working with young people. Being these young people’s mentor, I make sure that I will do whatever it takes to help make a difference in their lives and be there for them at all times.

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I challenge you who are reading this to channel your inner power of being a positive leader. Consider the significant roles you currently fulfill, and ponder on how you can expand those roles to be a benefit to those around you. Be a positive leader!

Sheldon Theragood is the founder of the nonprofit organization, TheraGOOD DEEDS. To find out more about this organization, please visit www.theragooddeeds.org.

July 2016 13

Leading from Behind

L

By Shelondra Peavy Contributing Writer

eadership is typically defined as a person’s ability to have others follow them willingly. However, it is not good enough for an individual to have a powerful cause or vision. Rather, it is necessary for that person to also passionately articulate their cause and vision in a clear enough fashion where others will become interested in supporting their overall purpose and plan.

For the most part, effective leadership requires magnetic elements such as passion, charisma, integrity, dedication, the ability to inspire, and the ability to convey thoughts and plans in a very concise and comprehensive manner.

Furthermore, there are several different styles of leadership, but perhaps the most honorable style of leadership is “servant leadership.” The leaders who choose to lead in this way are ones who

humbly recognize that, in essence, they are no better than their followers. What's more is; instead of being self-exalting, a “servant leader” is one who would prefer to elevate everyone else first. Leaders who choose this role of humility also are keenly aware of the fact that their status does not make them a god over others and that they will strengthen the entire unit by essentially being a servant to their followers; rendering assistance to them in whatever area they need it the most.

Many leaders could really benefit themselves as well as everyone else if they were to learn how to lead from behind, because if a person is always out front, they cannot see if any of their followers in the rear should happen to fall by the wayside. But of course, leading from behind can sound a tad bit undesirable

for the average type of leader, since it is often difficult for them to let go of their limelight and allow someone else to “go first” or to “be seen.”

Truthfully, it takes a special sort of person to have the ability to let others move to the forefront as he or she watches from behind, making sure that everything runs smoothly. Servant leadership is best likened to the position of a shepherd, suitably noting how a shepherd watches his flock from behind, making sure that his entire flock remains unharmed and on course.

When asked to describe an ideal leader, most folk would place emphasis on traits such as intellect, discipline, determination, and power. Although these qualities are traditionally associated with leadership, such attributes are necessary but insufficient qualities for a

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truly effective leader. Often times, softer and more personal qualities are left off of the list, but they are probably most essential. Moreover, although a certain degree of technical and analytical skills are minimum requirements for success in leadership; studies have indicated that emotional intelligence could actually be the key element that differentiates outstanding leaders from others who merely suffice as leaders.

Whether a leader is out front or somewhere in the background, it’s vital for them to remember to keep their vision, cause, end goal, and their followers at the forefront of their mind and also at the forefront of their mission.

Note to Reader: Contributing Writer Shelondra Peavy welcomes your input, requests, and suggestions! You may call her directly at 281-217-6579.

14  July 2016

Message from Mayor Sylvester Turner

Too Many Lives Lost I

By Mayor Sylvester Turner

have been unable to sleep. Too many lives have been taken and too many families have been destroyed.

This is a difficult time in our nation’s history. There is pain, hurt, and anger all around. Though the recent shootings did not take place in Houston, we are not that far removed. There has been progress on the divide between law enforcement and those they serve and protect since I was a young black kid, but this inexcusable violence on both sides indicates we have a very long way to go. Thanks to the global social media village we live in, society as a whole is only now beginning to acknowledge the severity of the problem. Acknowledgment is the first step.

Houston has not experienced the same kind of violence and uprisings as other cities. We like to say it is because Houston is different. Our diversity does make us more accepting of that which is different. On the other hand, I worry that we may have just been lucky. Regardless of why it has not happened here, we are working hard to get ahead of the problem before a situation causes Houstonians to react contrary to what we expect.

We cannot hold an entire group responsible for the actions of individuals. If an African-American, Hispanic, Anglo or Asian commits an act of violence against someone, we cannot blame the entire group. The same would apply to Muslims or Baptists. We also cannot blame all of law enforcement for the wrongful actions of a police officer.

That would be wrong. Each individual must be held accountable for his or her actions.

Houston has taken steps to enhance trust between law enforcement and the community. Earlier this year, Houston became the largest city to begin deployment of body cameras for all of our uniformed officers. This is another step; it is not the answer. HPD is also making strides in the area of training. And, the police chief meets regularly with ethnically and culturally diverse community, religious, academic and business leaders, to address issues and concerns impacting their respective communities and connect them with the appropriate contacts within HPD to help resolve their issues.

Yes, Houston is different due to its diversity, but diversity means nothing if we are separate, segregated, and apart. Now more than ever we need to pull together and use our differences to gain understanding and find workable solutions to this national emergency. The summer of 2016 cannot continue on the bloody track we’ve witnessed recently. I invite all leaders to join me at the table to work on this. If there is any city that can lead the way in getting it right, it is Houston!

Mayor Sylvester Turner

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Mayor Sylvester Turner speaking at the Stop the Violence March & Rally at City Hall with local pastors and community leaders.

July 2016  15

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16 July 2016

The Political Dynamic and Three Great Political Leaders By d-mars.com News Provider

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odney Ellis, Jarvis Johnson, and Borris Miles are no strangers to politics, well-known as being champions of change for the people of Houston. The elections of these three political powerhouses cannot be ignored, as the dynamic is quite interesting. Johnson has been elected to fill Mayor Turner’s former position as State Representative for District 139 (for 2016). After former Commissioner Lee’s untimely death, Ellis has been voted in for the permanent position of Precinct 1 Harris County Commissioner. Miles is the Democratic Nominee for State Senator District 13, Ellis’ former position. Houston’s recent elections have definitely shown a great shift of Houston’s political leadership.

Rodney Ellis Harris County Commissioner Precinct 1 As commissioner, Rodney Ellis’ role includes building and maintaining roads, bridges, and parks. Also, he will be responsible for providing social services, education, recreation, and health assistance for his constituents.

When Ellis was senator, he passed more than 630 pieces of legislation.

He has been recognized nationally for his leadership on increasing greater access to college for high-achieving Texas students, championing criminal justice reforms to protect the innocent and hold the guilty accountable, and fighting to provide quality affordable health care to the most vulnerable Texans, amongst many other issues.

In 1999 and 2000, Ellis served as Acting Governor of Texas for a

Harris County Commissioner Precinct 1 Rodney Ellis

record fifty days whenever thenGovernor George W. Bush and thenLt. Governor Rick Perry were both out of the state at the same time. Ellis also served as the official Lieutenant Governor of Texas for 7 days, 7 hours and 31 minutes after Governor Bush resigned and Lt. Governor Perry became governor.

Ellis has been a pivotal leader in assisting many African nations as they continue to transition from the regimes of the past to more modern, responsive governments. He also played a key role in helping Mexico ratify the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Some of Commissioner Ellis’ recognition and awards include: • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Champion of Justice, 2010 • AARP Legislative Achievement Award, 2009 • Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas James Madison Award, 2009 • Honored by National Women’s Political Caucus for a lifetime of service, 2007 • University of Texas Distinguished Alumnus Award, 2005 • Frederick Douglass Equal Justice Award in Washington D.C., 2004 • Texas Monthly Magazine “Ten Best Legislators” Awards, 2001 Commissioner Ellis will continue the great legacy of El Franco Lee, working closely with other governmental entities, health-care agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations to help Houstonians in Precinct 1.

Jarvis Johnson District 139 State Representative As the State Representative for District 139, his mission is to combat important issues for his constituents.

Some of his accomplishments as former Houston City Councilman for District B include, but are not limited to: • Negotiated millions of dollars in contracts that benefitted small businesses in District B and the Greater Houston area.

• Negotiated the demolishing of ten abandoned apartment complexes in District 139 that opened doors for the successful replacement of several senior citizen residential buildings.

• Created a Market Study Program with Prairie View A&M University and Texas Southern University to research and plan an Economic

District 139 State Representative Jarvis Johnson

Corridor for District 139.

Jarvis Johnson has authored the following effective legislation: • Sweat Equity Ordinance – This was negotiated with former Houston Mayor Bill White to permit faithbased organizations and not-for-profit groups to identify trash burdened areas. This ordinance allowed these organizations and groups to be paid for their monthly work by having the City give a financial lien on the property in exchange for maintaining the property.

• Habitability Ordinance – This ordinance still ensures that small apartment owners are aware that as a small business owner and operator, they must keep the living conditions clean and all appliances must be operable and be timely maintained.

State Representative Johnson stands firm on the principles of integrity and allegiance to the community.

As former Houston City Council Member for District B, he executed the plan to create change for District B. He will work hard to do the same as State Representative for District 139.

Sam Houston State University.

A former law enforcement officer, Miles is a successful entrepreneur and businessman, owning and operating one of the largest (and most successful) African-American independent insurance agencies in the United States. Though he started as a one-man operation in his garage apartment, today his company - Borris L. Miles Insurance - writes more than $50 million dollars in insurance premiums annually.

Miles knows and understands the importance of community, not only living in the community, but placing his business in the community.

His office is located in Houston's Third Ward on Almeda. He has also purchased and renovated two city blocks, providing professional lease space to other minority-owned businesses. He genuinely believes that by investing in his community, he is having a positive impact on the business and economic base of the area.

Miles has won and/or been recognized for numerous honors and awards including: • 2005 Houston Citizen Chamber of Commerce Pinnacle Award Winner • 2003 Houston Citizen Chamber of Commerce Pinnacle Award Nominee • 2003 YMCA Super Achievers Award • 2002 Farmer Insurance Wall of Fame • 1999 Farmers Insurance Leadership Award

Senator-Elect Borris Miles Borris Miles was first elected to serve as the State Representative for District 146 in November of 2006.

He was re-elected in November 2010, and was sworn back into the House of Representatives in January 2011.

Senator-Elect Borris Miles He is a lifelong resident of Houston; growing up in Sunnyside where he attended Jack Yates High School.

After high school, he received the d-mars.com congratulates Rodney Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Ellis, Jarvis Johnson, and Borris Justice and Criminal Science from Miles!

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July 2016 17

Creating a Legacy Through Exceptional Leadership

By Tammi Durden

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Contributing Writer

ave you ever encountered someone who seems to be a natural born leader?

It seems as though they innately have a take-charge nature, and people respond accordingly and follow. On the other hand, I’m sure you have encountered individuals who are in a position of authority, but their followers despise them.

Although a number of people are born leaders, a majority of the population has potential to be great leaders, but simply require a cultivation of skills. If the truth be told, even the best leaders have to work at it.

Two of the greatest success factors of leadership are purpose and intent. Why do you lead? What do you hope to accomplish? At the core of it all, people are what really matter. When you lead, people follow, so it is imperative to hold at the forefront of everything your greatest asset…people. Successful leadership

yields the opportunity to create a lasting contribution and make a positive difference in the lives of others, as well as achieving organizational goals. How can this be accomplished? Allow me to offer three habits of successful leaders, that when practiced, are sure to yield exceptional results: 1) Exceptional Leaders Connect.

True leaders have the heart of a servant and a passion for people.

If you really want those who follow you to become engaged and buy in, it is critical to establish a connection with those you lead. A connection is a form of relationship.

This does not mean that you must become friends or best buds with those you lead.

However, there should be a mental and sometimes emotional association present. Establishing a common ground or sharing like interests with those you lead will aid in this process. Extraordinary leaders are able to tap into the needs and desires of those they lead and have a genuine concern for them. Once people detect your authenticity, they are more will-

ing to become open to give 110% for a shared cause or vision.

2) Exceptional Leaders Inspire.

Once you connect with individuals and establish some common ground, the ability to inspire them is so much eas-

ier and impactful. A leader’s ability to inspire their followers is extremely important in order to obtain the desired outcome. Inspiration involves influence and effective communication. Often times prompting others to take action is a result of possessing the ability to motivate, letting others know what’s in it for

them and how achievable success really is. Once a leaders begins to flow in this zone, amazing things will happen.

3) Exceptional Leaders Build.

When I say build, I am not referring to building a physical structure or even building a team. Extraordinary leaders build people. I cannot stress how important this habit is.

Never underestimate the power of cultivating those who follow you. Celebrate successes with them, no matter how great or small. Let them know when they do a good job and that you appreciate them. The end result can be tremendously rewarding for all parties involved. When you grow and develop individuals, you are engineering both a phenomenal team and organization.

Remember, your greatest asset is the people who follow you.

Once a connection is established, this opens the door for inspiration and as a result, building them up is inevitable. So, if you long to make a mark in the world and a positive difference in the lives of others, lead from a place of exceptionalism. When doing so, you are sure to leave a lasting legacy.

For more information about Tammi Durden, please visit her website at www.tammidurden.com.

Over 13 years in business

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18 July 2016

Simple Tips to Help You Design Your Life

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By Linda Lindsay Contributing Writer

f you are not including a designer in the renovation or building of a new home, you might as well open up the window and throw at least ten to twenty thousand dollars out of the window. Please handle this process like you were going in for a surgical procedure. You need all the facts about the designer, contractor, and his workers, making sure that they are the right ones for your scope of work demanded.

A designer who knows about the proper products that should be used in your new home is an A+ leader in the world of design, along with being able to incorporate project management skills.

The contractor who has led craftsmen, along with artisans on his team, also offers a win-win situation. Design and contracting skills go hand in hand to get the best for your budget. Moving in the direction of confidence, before hiring a design professional to start on renovation or building, do your research.

You can rely on your designer to put a vision board together for you. Yet, a de-

signer being educated on the right products for the installation is the right designer for such a job. Always start with a real budget, not one that you feel you will need. This will allow the entire journey to be a realistic one. Being a leader in design always means putting the facts in order first for the client, and that means working with their budget.

As a client, you must be totally honest and have great communication skills regarding your expectations on how you will be functioning and living in this space.

You must share important facts openly with your designer or contractor. For example, you love Bamboo flooring. Yet, a room where this floor will be installed is going to be used as an area for social gatherings. If this point is not shared with the designer, he or she cannot be blamed for the fact that this was an incorrect product selection. A bamboo floor will show every scratch and life mark. The same as expensive leather on a sofa or chair. The higher grade the leather, the more sensitive to wear and tear. Leather is a natural skin, so it will show all markings of wear and tear.

Contractors are labor craftsmen, and they get paid for their skill. The job of your designer is to make sure that you have received referrals, along with seeing the finished projects of the contractor of choice. The best scenario is working with a designer that has a team of contractors.

This will allow an enlightening experience with great results.

For example, you do not want to spend

$50 a square foot for beautiful tile, and then when it is installed, it was not done with the expertise expected. You deserve a great team when it comes to the total renovation or building of a new home enhancing your new lifestyle.

Simple Tips for Contracting Always request a full breakdown of the costs. This means that you can see how the contractor has arrived at their total cost. This is great if you need to look at saving money. You can prioritize where you spend your money. It is also very helpful if you have any questions with the invoice when the project is completed.

Always get an estimate or quote in writing. This is necessary, as a quote or estimate is a form of a contract. They generally have their terms and conditions of trade printed on them. If not, you can request a copy of them. You want to protect yourself and make sure that you understand what your responsibilities are

and what are theirs. This is especially true if something goes wrong along the way.

What if the contractor slips off of his ladder and breaks your window? Who pays?

What if the fabric pattern is sewn upside down? Who pays?

Always confirm everything in writing with the contractor. Once you have selected the successful quote or estimate and contractor, engage them in writing, and let them know that if there are any items that may arise once the project has commenced, you are to be informed and a further quote given to you to accept before they continue work. This means that you are able to keep full financial control over the project. There are some contractors who quote very cheaply to get your work, then innocently find “extras” along the way to increase the total value of the project.

Contact Linda Lindsay of Designing Your Lifestyle at 347-731-1020.

Top 5 Most Distracted Behaviors and How to Change Them

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By d-mars.com News Provider

ith the average attention span only lasting eight seconds, and the need to multitask to keep up with an on-the-go lifestyle, it’s no wonder so many of us are easily sidetracked during routine tasks. Mace, a globally recognized leader in personal safety and security, offers valuable tips to combat the five most distracted behaviors.

Running with headphones Whether training for an upcoming marathon or jogging around the block, we often take the time to develop the perfect playlist to keep us going, but don’t consider the risks of tuning out the outside world. Before you press play, consider your personal safety: leave the headphones at home, especially at night. If you’re streaming music through your smartphone, make sure the volume is low enough to hear the traffic around you.

Texting while walking Did you know that nearly 60 percent of pedestrians use a smartphone while crossing the street, according to the National Highway Traffic Administration? Combine that with the average five seconds a driver’s

eyes are off the road while texting, a statistic from the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the results can be deadly.

Don’t walk and text. If you need to take a call, move to the side until your call is complete. Always be aware of your surroundings. A distracted pedestrian can be an easy target for potential criminals.

The National Crime Prevention Council suggests you switch directions or cross the street if you think someone is following you. If the person continues to lurk, move quickly toward an open store, restaurant or lighted house. Add an additional layer of protection by arming yourself with the BoobyTrapBra, a Just In Case bra designed to hold your pepper spray where you can easily reach it, empowering you to live an active life with peace of mind.

Walking your dog at dawn and dusk Fido requires multiple daily walks to stay healthy. If your schedule only allows for exercising him in the early morning or late evening hours, you may find yourself walking in the dark when you’re overtired, which can delay reaction times when they’re most critical.

Keep dogs on short leashes for more control in heavy traffic. If you walk your dog in the dark, wear light colored clothing with reflective strips so drivers can see you. Nite

be sure your keys are in hand. Pay attention to your surroundings and other vehicles entering and exiting the lot. Consider walking alongside the aisle instead of taking the stairwell, or ask a security guard to escort you to your car. To buckle a child into a safety seat, get into the backseat with the child and lock the doors rather than doing so from outside the vehicle.

Zoning out on public transportation

Beams are equipped with LED safety lights that provide high and instant visibility up to 1,400 feet or a 1/4 mile from every direction. Available in wrist, arm and leg bands for you, and collars and leashes for your dog, these bands will help to provide safety for everyone.

Navigating the parking lot Whether working late or tackling weekly errands, busy parking lots and garages can be dangerous if you are distracted by an armful of bags, children or technology.

Leave the balancing act for a secure location to ensure you safely get in your car and on the road.

Before making your way to your vehicle,

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One of the perks of public transportation is the ability to use your travel time to multitask, like getting a jump start on your day by checking work emails. While you may enjoy not paying attention to the road, don’t let productivity goals get in the way of your personal safety.

Ride in the first car or closest to the operator (insider tip: the train conductor is usually in the second car). If you are traveling at night, do your best to avoid dark or isolated stops. Remain aware of your surroundings as you exit, with keys in hand when you depart from the stop or station. For added protection, include the compact and easyto-use Mace Brand KeyGard on your key ring.

Whether walking, running, driving or riding, incorporate these tips into your everyday habits to help keep yourself safe and secure throughout the day. – BPT

July 2016  19

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20 July 2016

Why Your Employer Wants You to Volunteer - and Why You Should

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initiative reported experiencing oes your employer many of the benefits commonly consider community associated with volunteerism, service part of a job including:

By d-mars.com News Provider

well done? If you're wondering whether you should take advantage of your employer's offer to pay you for volunteer time, keep in mind employee volunteerism benefits everyone involved - your company, the organization you'll help and you!

Approximately 21 percent of employers now give workers paid time off for volunteering, according to the Society for Human Resource Management. Sponsoring volunteerism can help a company boost employee morale, enhance recruitment efforts and even improve the business' standing in the community. Volunteering can also benefit you emotionally and in your career.

For example, through the Investing in America's Health initiative, employees of Blue Cross Blue Shield's 36 communitybased and locally operated companies (BCBS) volunteered nearly 400,000 hours and provided more than $10 million in donations in 2015. BCBS workers volunteered and provided financial support to programs and organizations involved in improving public health.

Workers involved in the BCBS

• Emotional rewards - Multiple studies have shown that volunteering makes people feel more socially connected and emotionally fulfilled, and can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.

• Enhanced camaraderie with coworkers - Employees who volunteer together consistently report feeling more connected to their co-workers and their communities. Volunteering together can be a fulfilling and effective team-building activity.

• Improving their community - Because employer-sponsored volunteer programs take place at a local level, when you participate you're directly improving your own community.

• Add depth to professional credentials - Current and future employers don't just want people with job skills, they want to know they're hiring compassionate, caring and well-rounded individuals. Participation in employee-sponsored volunteer programs enhances your overall appeal as a professional.

If you would like to become involved in volunteering through an employersponsored program, here are some ways to get started:

• Talk to your human resources department about your company's program to better understand how it works. For example, does the company have an established volunteer relationship with a charitable or community organization?

Or will your employer support your volunteerism with any qualifying organization? Will you receive paid-time-off for volunteering, and if so, how many hours per month? Does your employer also offer cash donations or a donation match-

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ing program to support charitable contributions?

• If your employer has a policy that allows you to volunteer anywhere, identify the group you want to volunteer with. Be aware of any standards your employer may have established for qualifying organizations. Look for a volunteer opportunity that allows you to do something you're passionate about and that supports your local community.

• Gather information from the volunteer organization on what you need to do in order to take part as a volunteer. For example, will you need to participate in any specialized training? Will you need to agree to a background check if you'll be working with children?

If your employer doesn't yet have a program, take the initiative and suggest they start one. This can be as simple as identifying your worthy cause and asking your employer for support in volunteering.

To learn more about how BCBS companies are improving the health and wellness of members and their communities, view the report at www.bcbs. com. – BPT

July 2016  21

The Power of a Star

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By Ash Davito

Contributing Writer

've always carried the responsibility of a leader. For as long as I can remember, I've had that type of star power confidence in myself and the ability to inspire and lead others. While embracing this power, I began to grow in character and as a man. I always tell talent I work with that "Your talent gets you in the door, but your character keeps you in the room." I knew that whether millions of people were watching me on TV or just a few, my star power may catch their attention, but having the power of a star will keep their attention.

Whether you’re a celebrity or not, people will always remember what you say to them and how you make them feel.

What would people say about you? One experience with you, good or bad, could change someone's life forever.

As we grow older, our perspective on life changes. You start to realize that the real stars are your parents or those people who deposited morals and values into your life. Let me be honest, there

is no bigger star than Jesus Christ, period. I believe the greatness within me, that star power, has always come from me helping others, showing people that the impossible is possible with Christ. I remember being on set for motion picture movies with celebrities and thinking that it was something great that I did to be there. The reality is the only thing I did was step out on faith to pursue my acting career. Once I accepted Christ into my heart, I realized that it wasn't my choice of profession that made me a star. It was the Christ within me that attracted people to me. True enough, people recognize me as that guy who writes books or that actor, but I make it a priority that people remember me as that guy who spoke from his heart and lifted spirits. I want to be remembered as that guy who spoke about the real star name Jesus Christ. Those are the things I believe make me a star.

I didn't speak much as a child, because I was always observing everything around me. Though I never had a father around while growing up, I started to know God as my Father. The power of a star lights up the room, but the power of God lights up your heart in the most magnificent way ever known to man.

The truth is, everyone isn't going to like you, no matter how much you help them or love them. Look at what they did to Jesus. However, the joy of the Lord will have you loving yourself and others in a way where it doesn't matter

who loves you or not. Your heart is set on loving and trusting the greatest star to ever live, Jesus Christ. Now that's

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star power!

For more on Ash Davito, please visit www.DavitoFamilyPublishing.com.

22 July 2016

The Power of Leadership

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By Pastor Ogletree Contributing Writer

ohn Maxwell, a leadership guru, proclaims this philosophy: “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” He makes the case, as well as many others on the power of leadership. When one examines all aspects of life, be it family, education, government or church, leadership is essential to success.

We only have to review the history of the Civil Rights Movement in America to appreciate the power of leadership. A handful of preachers operating under the banner of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference played a large role in securing Civil Rights for Black people. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led them. These preachers led successful desegregation campaigns in Birmingham, Alabama: the massive protest March on Washington in 1963, the Selma Voting Rights Movement, and the muchheralded march from Selma to Mont-

gomery that crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge. As a result of their leadership, the Civil Rights Bill of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 became the laws of the land.

The Word of God also places a high value on leadership. It is amazing that the eternal, sovereign God who is omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient, places value on human leadership.

When God decided it was time to free His people out of Egyptian bondage, He called Moses to lead them. He chose David, a young shepherd boy to succeed the impulsive, disobedient Saul as king of Israel. It was God, who selected Jeremiah “before he was formed in his mother’s womb,” to be a prophet to His people during a time of national apostasy and international strife. Moreover, “when the fullness of time had come,” God sent His Son Jesus the Christ to lead us to salvation from our sins and a right relationship with Him. The power of leadership comes through their ability to influence people for right and righteousness. Leaders are called by God to influence men, women, boys and girls toward His purposes.

Rosalynn Carter shared this insight on the power of leaders when she said, “A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to go.”

What Does That REALLY Mean?

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-mars.com is here to inspire, inform, and educate.

We love taking you back.

We love remembering things of the past. When you reminisce about the past, it can put a smile on your face.

How many times have you heard your mom or grandma say, “He’s no spring chicken?” We’ve all heard these types of phrases growing up but had no idea what they meant. Below are some familiar phrases and their meanings.

Phrases and Meanings “Blood is Thicker than Water.”

Meaning: Family comes before everything else History: In ancient Middle Eastern culture, blood rituals between men symbolized bonds that were far greater than those of family. The saying also has to do with “blood brothers,” because warriors who symbolically shared the blood they shed in battle together were said to have stronger bonds than biological brothers.

“Butter Someone Up” Meaning: To flatter someone History: An ancient Indian custom involved throwing balls of clarified butter at statues of the gods to seek favor.

Meaning: Hang on to valuable things when getting rid of unnecessary things History: During the 1500s, most people bathed once a year. Even when they did bathe, the entire family used the same tubful of water. The man of the house bathed first, followed by other males, then females, and finally the babies. You can imagine how thick and cloudy the water became by that time, so the infants’ mothers had to take care not to throw them out with the bathwater when they emptied the tub.

People need instruction, correction, encouragement, equipping, mentoring, and commendation. Therefore, it is essential that spiritual leaders fulfill their responsibility. When they do, the lost are saved, lives are transformed, vision is cast, ministry is accomplished, families are strengthened, children are nurtured, land is purchased, and buildings are erected. God calls leaders, not just preachers. He looks beyond their deficiencies and equips them. He protects them. He guides them. He reveals His will to them.

Leaders are gap closers. They have the power to close the disparities between God’s standards and the situation that men find themselves in as a result of sin.

In Ezekiel 22:30, the prophet Ezekiel informs us that God sought someone to “stand in the gap” to prevent His judgment on His people. Could He be looking for you?

mood History: The left side of the body or anything having to do with the left was often associated considered sinister. To ward off evil, innkeepers made sure the left side of the bed was pushed against a wall, so guests had no other option but to get up on the right side of the bed.

the influence of opium, became wild, rampaging mobs that attacked anybody in their path.

“Run Amok” Meaning: Go crazy History: Comes from the Malaysian word amoq, which describes the behavior of tribesmen who, under

“More Than You Can Shake a Stick At” Meaning: Having more of something than you need History: Farmers controlled their sheep by shaking their staffs to indicate where the animals should go. When farmers had more sheep than they could control, it was said they had “more than you can shake a stick at.”

“Waking Up on the Wrong Side of the Bed” Meaning: Waking up in a bad

“Don’t Throw the Baby Out with the Bathwater.”

John D. Ogletree, Jr. is the Senior Pastor and Founder of First Metropolitan Church located at 8870 West Sam Houston Parkway N., Houston, TX 77040.

“Rule of Thumb” Meaning: A common, ubiquitous benchmark History: Legend has it that 17th century English Judge Sir Francis Buller ruled it was permissible for a husband to beat his wife with a stick, given that the stick was no wider than his thumb.

“Rub the Wrong Way” Meaning: To irritate, bother, or annoy someone History: In colonial America, servants were required to wet-rub and dryrub the oak-board floors each week. Doing it against the grain caused streaks to form, making the wood look awful and irritating the homeowner.

“No Spring Chicken” Meaning: Someone who is past his prime History: New England chicken farmers generally sold chickens in the spring, so the chickens born in the springtime yielded better earnings than the chickens that survived the winter. Sometimes, farmers tried to sell old birds for the price of a new spring chicken.

Clever buyers complained that the fowl was “no spring chicken,” and the term came to represent anyone past their prime.

Source Used: list25.com

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July 2016  23

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24 July 2016

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July 2016 25

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26 July 2016

Here Comes the Judge!

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By Art McElroy

Contributing Writer

ave you ever thought about what it really means to judge another?

To judge is a verb and means: to form an opinion about (something or someone) or to regard (someone) as either good or bad.

Today, it seems as though we are satisfied in developing an opinion about another with only partial or misinformation, without realizing the affects for all of those involved.

It affects the one judging, the one being judged, and anyone who is brought into the process by hearing, speaking, or participating.

The result of this kind of judgment, when it is directed towards another, does not leave room for reconciliation or healing for those involved. Christians in particular, fall short of a beautiful process which is designed to remove confu-

sion and division, not add to it.

Judging is a part of life. It is a part of who we are, and there is no getting away from it. We judge from the time we wake up until the time we go sleep. We judge what toothpaste to use, coffee to drink, schools to attend, where to work, or even what restaurant to eat at. And here is the best thing… its ok! Judging can be used as a tool of discernment.

For Christians, it is okay when done with the right perspective, all the facts, and from all the evidence available. This process of judgment holds true in our secular systems too.

However, in a Christian approach, judging IS NEVER towards another Christian. Matthew 7:1 reads, “Judge not, that ye be not judged.”

Here is the question. Why is it necessary for Christians NOT TO judge one another, but rather, leave ALL judgment to the Lord?

1st Corinthians 4:5 gives us the answer.

It reads, “Therefore judge nothing…until the Lord comes, who will… reveal the counsels of the hearts.”

Only God has

the power to do that, which makes the heart the place of true or righteous judgment.

We can only see the actions of one another, not the spiritual things or the motivations of the heart or mind. And as a result, we judge the action alone, without the ability to see deeper into a person and their situa-

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tion. This is equally sad if the one being judged is a Christian.

By the time we see the physical manifestation of a person’s actions or words, their true motivation was already seen and judged by God, because it was birthed within the heart. Since Christians have to wait until a person’s motivation turns into actions, we miss out on a huge piece of the puzzle called righteous judgment.

We are, as a result, left isolated from the judgmental process of the Lord as we take the secular approach into our own hands as it relates to another, Christian or not. When we do this, we no longer have an opportunity to reflect the love and grace of the Father as shown to us through Jesus Christ, which at the end of the day only affects those of us who judge. Remember, the sin is not being judged; the sin is being the judge and often times, the jury.

Can you imagine a life without the judgment of others and what that would look like?

As brothers and sisters in Christ, let us leave all judging to the ONE who is the true judge. The Lord!

Art McElroy is the founder of The Penuel Group, Inc. Please visit The Penuel Group on the web at www.thepenuelgroup. com.

You can also contact Art at art@ thepenuelgroup.com.

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