2 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
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™
MARCH 2011
contents on the cover: Rev. Monique Carter New Shiloh Baptist Church 2100 N. Monroe Street Baltimore, Maryland 21217 410-523-5306 www.newshilohbaptist.org
Q&A Interview 8-9
Q&A Interview with Rev. Monique Carter
National Women’s History Month A Salute to Dr. Maya Angelou
features 13 MAYOR’S JOURNAL
15 WORD ON FINANCES
4 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson
God’s Money In Caesar’s Pocket
features 17 GOVERNOR’S PAGE
19 EDUCATION DIGEST Dr. Tim Tooten
Monthly Education News
23 NURSE’S CORNER Act Now Against
Colorectal Cancer
29 BODY BASICS
Charles ‘Chizelit’ Harris
Why Does Exercise Hurt?
31 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Cassandra Vaughn-Fox
Live Like There’s No Tomorrow
37 WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Donna Williams-Ross
25 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC
Why Can’t We Be Friends
In Every Issue Contributors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
27 NUTRITION & YOU
Herline A. Knights
March is National Nutrition Month
From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Scripture Page. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Carter’s Commnetary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
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For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
Advisory Board
Contributors
PUBLISHER
Jackie Epps
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps
EDITORIAL
Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Herline A. Knights Charles ‘Chizel It’ Harris Pastors Gregory and Tonya Dennis Carla J. Debnam Jamison ‘Jaye’ Boykin Donna Williams-Ross Governor Martin O’Malley Ericka Johnson Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Rev. Tim Tooten
Mark L. Dennis
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tyrone Akins/ Tyght Shots Photography
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com
WEB ADMINISTRATOR
Arts Period
PRINTING
PS Printing Solutions
Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Dr. Frank M. Reid III Sr. Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, MD Dr. Jerome A. Barber Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, Hampton , VA Dr. Michael A. Battle Sr. President, ITC Seminary, Atlanta, GA Dr. Timothy Boddie Friendship Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA Bishop John R. Bryant Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook Sr. Pastor, Believers Christian Fellowship, NY Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn-Fox/Media Executive Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Bishop Dennis V. Proctor Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal Region AME Zion Church Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Restoring Life International Church, MD Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD
2011 Specials
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for all your advertising needs! -Churches, Minsitries, Christian Schools, Choirs: Inform the community of your services, programs, etc. -Salons, Boutiques, Specialty shops: Advertise your sales. -Businesses, Realtors, Financial Advisors: Educate consumers of your services.
For more information 443-813-6547; 410-370-2636/info@gracenglorymagazine.org
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6 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
from the editor
The public celebration of women’s history in this country began in 1978 as “Women’s History Week” in Sonoma County, California. The week including March 8, International Women’s Day, was selected. In 1981, Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Rep. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) co-sponsored a joint Congressional resolution proclaiming a national Women’s History Week. In 1987, Congress expanded the celebration to a month, and March was declared Women’s History Month. National Women’s History Month provides an excellent venue to recognize and celebrate women’s historic achievements as well as an opportunity to honor women within our families and communities. We are dedicating this month’s issue of Grace & Glory Magazine to God’s phenomenal creation called ‘woman’. We selected Dr. Maya Angelou as our National Women’s History Month honoree. She is truly a phenomenal woman of God. To all of God’s Women, I salute all of you with this special poem written by Dr. Maya Angelou.
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size But when I start to tell them, They think I’m telling lies. I say, It’s in the reach of my arms The span of my hips, The stride of my step, The curl of my lips. I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me. I walk into a room Just as cool as you please, And to a man, The fellows stand or Fall down on their knees. Then they swarm around me, A hive of honey bees.
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
Phenomenal Woman
I say, It’s the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth,The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet. I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman,That’s me. Men themselves have wondered What they see in me. They try so much But they can’t touch My inner mystery. When I try to show them They say they still can’t see. I say, It’s in the arch of my back, The sun of my smile, The ride of my breasts, The grace of my style.
I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me. Now you understand Just why my head’s not bowed. I don’t shout or jump about Or have to talk real loud. When you see me passing It ought to make you proud. I say, It’s in the click of my heels, The bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, The need of my care, ‘Cause I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.
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Q
A Q&A interview
&
INTERVIEW WITH
Lady Monique Carter New Shiloh Baptist Church • Baltimore, MD
Rev. Monique Carter is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and the wife of Rev. Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr., pastor of New Shiloh Baptist Church. Lady Monique Carter was called by God into the gospel ministry several years ago and delivered her initial sermon in August 2003 at the New Shiloh Baptist Church, Baltimore, Maryland. She is a powerful, spirit-filled prayer warrior and loves to preach God’s Word. Carter has conducted workshops, seminars and religious programs throughout the country. Her higher education includes an Associate Degree from the Catonsville Community College, and extended studies at Coppin State University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland. Rev. Carter is scheduled to graduate with a Master of Divinity degree in May 2011 from the Lancaster Theological Seminary, Lancaster, PA. Here is our exclusive interview with Lady Monique Carter . . . G&G: Mrs. Carter, I am delighted to introduce you to our readers in recognition of National Women’s History Month. My first question for you is this; you are undoubtedly a very successful woman. Please share with us how it all began for you. What were your dreams as a young girl, your goals and ambitions? Lady Carter: My desire as a child was to own my own business -- a beauty salon -- which I did do. Actually, I was fortunate to own two salons in my lifetime, one in Reading, PA and one in Colonial Heights, VA, near Petersburg, Va. It was a dream of mine to own a chain of salons, but since my family relocated twice, I was not able to do that. Usually a business owner must be in an area for at least 10 years to be anchored. Since my family was in ministry and made frequent moves, I was unable to fulfill that dream. Before coming home to Baltimore, the longest we stayed in one area was seven years. G&G: Mrs. Carter, now that you are an adult, a wife, mother, minister and First Lady would you say that all your dreams and aspirations as a young girl have been realized? There is a saying that one should never stop dreaming, do you still have a drive and ambition to accomplish more? 8 8 March March 2011 2011 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
Lady Carter: Yes, I did fulfill my dream of owning my own business. And, no, I have not stopped dreaming because, to me, that is the equivalent of ceasing to live. My circumstances have changed, though, being called into ministry, I’ve taken a different focus in life. Now, my focus is more academic vs. entrepreneurial. For the past three years I have been commuting from Baltimore to Lancaster, PA, pursuing my Master of Divinity degree from the Lancaster Theological Seminary. And, I’m excited to let your readers know that I am scheduled to graduate this Spring on the 14th of May! Trying to balance home and seminary has been a challenge. One of the things that I discovered very quickly in these past three years is, you can’t do it all. Balancing became a matter of priorities. Some week’s household duties were placed third on my list. As women we want to do it all and do it well, but most of the time it’s about prioritizing. Last semester I made up my mind that I was just going to “keep it moving.” Things will work their way out. G&G: Throughout history, women have come together to change our society for the better. Do you believe there are still women’s rights that need to be addressed today? Is there still work left to do? Lady Carter: Absolutely, I think there is always
going to be work left to do for women. In so many instances, women still earn less money for the same positions than men. There are plenty of positions in the corporate world that some women have achieved by becoming CEO’s, presidents and business owners. However, there is still an imbalance. The reality is that women often still have to work twice as hard as men to achieve a certain status. There are still plenty of glass ceilings to be broken. Equality for women is not just a social or corporate issue, but an issue in ministry too. There are many denominations and religious communities that still don’t acknowledge women being called into ministry. So, yes, there is still plenty of work to be addressed with regards to this issue. G&G: Mrs. Carter, there were many obstacles women had to overcome down through the years; the right to vote, discrimination in the workplace, equal pay and racism to name a few. Have you ever experienced any personal discrimination or situations of not being accepted as a woman in the marketplace and/or in ministry? Lady Carter: There is one incident that stands out in my mind in terms of the marketplace. I think opening
Q&A interview up my second business was more of a challenge than what I had anticipated. While I was in Virginia, a real estate consultant wanted to steer me into an AfricanAmerican community to open my business (because I was an African-American). My mother used to talk about her experiences as a child traveling through the area of Colonial Heights, VA. Her father would drive through there with my mother and her siblings he would instruct them to be completely silent for fear of being stopped by police in this predominately white area. I was persistent and determined to open a shop in that area. It didn’t make sense to me that in the early 90’s I couldn’t open a business in Colonial Heights. But, I did it. I was the only black business owner in the area, in fact the first African-American woman to do so, as well. That was the only time I can remember being told I couldn’t function as an entrepreneur. In ministry – I have been fortunate enough to be the wife of a pastor and discrimination, so far in ministry has been minimal. However, I am sure it can happen, because it is a reality of life. G&G: Mrs. Carter, let’s shift gears a little bit and talk about our young women of today. It is no secret the young girls today face many obstacles. What can we do as women to tackle the issues plaguing our young girls, peer pressure, low self-esteem, teen pregnancy, substance abuse, to name a few? Lady Carter: Being open with our young people and young ladies in particular is extremely important. Not sharing our own stories sometimes can hurt young ladies. I think a lot of times the young girls feel like they are the only ones experiencing peer pressure, but it has been around as long as humans have been around. I think that is where a good home life comes in because the foundation received from parents, aunts or any part of the nuclear family is paramount to giving young ladies the tools to be able to push back against peer pressure. At New Shiloh Baptist Church we have a ministry called Debutantes for Christ where we seek to mentor our young ladies to handle such issues by bringing in women from the church and the community to share. These women have experiences in a variety of fields, like sociology, medicine, etc. We want these women to find out the dreams of the young ladies and speak to them about that particular dream. Whatever area they want to go into, career wise, we try to address it with a workshop. We don’t stop there, though, I believe knowing the names of the young ladies in the church makes a difference, too. I try to speak to them and with them each Sunday because it does take a village to raise a child and I want to be approachable. G&G: Tell us more about the Debutantes for Christ. Lady Carter: This ministry, which lasts for six weeks, kicks off with a Bible study so the young ladies can apply the lessons to their everyday lives. We want
them to know that they can live out the principles of God through their daily lives and overcome peer pressure, substance abuse or any issue. When we have someone facilitate a particular workshop, I make sure the facilitator is going to open up and help draw the young ladies into feeling comfortable to ask questions about abuse, low self-esteem, etc. The Bible does teach us that we can do things through Christ, and “through Christ” is the key. I think it is really important that young ladies have a good sense of self vs. seeking out who they are through someone else. Sometimes the media can hinder a young lady’s self-esteem because of how they are portrayed physically. Yet, we can help young girls embrace the beauty of their skin color, their broad noses, and their thick lips – whatever. It is up to us to help them realize God created them in God’s image and God said, “It is good.” G&G: Mrs. Carter, who would you say are the women who inspired you and helped shape your life and made a positive impact? What did you gain from these women that you would pass along to other young women? Lady Carter: My mother, Doris Roseborough, was the first woman who obviously inspired me. I also have a host of aunts, as well as several of my mother’s friends, who were career women, educators, and lawyers/judges; God-fearing women, who impacted my life positively. My mother taught me that I can have a career and balance a family also. My mom was in the corporate world. She would drive every day to D.C., then she would come home to try and maintain the family. So I grew up with the mind set that women could work outside the family. There were women in the church of my upbringing who impacted me positively as well. I remember one in particular, Mrs. Brown, who lived in the neighborhood where I grew up. Her impact was the way she feared the Lord. Whenever I would see her there was a sense of holiness and reverence for God that she exuded. I admired that about her. She had no problem correcting me with love. I admired that there was someone other than my mother who was saying, you are going the wrong way. Also, my mother-in-law, Mrs. Weptanomah Carter, had a very positive impact on my life especially in the area of being a minister’s wife. She was a trailblazer. She always said to me, “Blossom where you are a planted.” Or, “Brighten the corner on which God has planted you.” G&G: Do you believe there are any role models of today for women to aspire to? What are some things the church can do to impact our young girls and help them become role models for each other? Lady Carter: One of the first ones to pop into my mind is Michelle Obama. Although she is the
president’s wife, you can see she had a career, and the impact she is having on her girls and the larger community is great. She has a positive message about health, education, career and being a mother. We cannot forget the women of the past who have left an indelible impression on our society. Women such as Mary McLeod Bethune, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Sojourner Truth, Henriette Delille, just to name a few. As a church, we can keep our girls in a sense of community by giving them some together time to interact with each other. It is one way young girls can mentor each other. For instance, the Debutantes for Christ ministry has rap sessions that allow the young ladies to be open with each other – to be honest with each other about their own lives, struggles, etc. We are successful if we can teach them to help each other be the best they can be – not to be filled with envy or jealousy toward each other but to see each other as Christ sees them. G&G: Mrs. Carter, lastly National Women’s History Month is celebrated by recognizing the contributions made by women that transformed our society. Just recently, I heard this question asked in a television commercial. What makes a woman? How would you answer that question? Lady Carter: God makes a woman! I think that it takes the Word of God and a woman’s willingness to follow and carry it out. A God-fearing woman is someone who is willing to follow the Word of God. I see her as a nurturer, one who is as gentle as a dove, but wise as a serpent. A Godly woman is a woman of character, who maintains her integrity. It doesn’t happen overnight. It comes with time. Challenges and life itself will shape and mold you into being the woman God has called you to become if you are willing to uphold Biblical truths. So, for me a woman is someone who knows her worth, knows her value as defined by God and understands that she is fearfully and wonderfully made. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 9 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 9
10 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
scripture page
Romans 12:4-8 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith. if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
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12 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
mayor’s journal
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14 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
word on finances
FINANCIAL WELLNESS Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, II To book Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, II for your next seminar, conference or service, call:
410.415.6400, ext. 105
God’s Money in Caesar’s Pockets It is tax season and the Bible has a lot to say about the Christian attitude toward taxes. Jesus said to the citizens of His day under pagan Roman rule, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” Luke 20:25 One of the major issues on the political agenda today is how much control should the government have in the affairs of the American people. One of the fears of the American people today is too much government interference in the personal affairs of the public. Several years ago, Bill Gates, chief executive officer (CEO) of Microsoft, Inc. was subpoenaed by the government in an attempt to stop his monopolization and to control his selfmade billion-dollar empire. Also, in the government’s attempt to revitalize the communities, reconstruct housing in desolate areas, rebuild our failing education system, reform wealth and health plans, rehabilitate our criminals and drug addicts, feed the poor, etc., we must understand that all of the efforts will inevitably require more taxes and possibly restrict and regulate religious freedoms. The more people (especially Christians) that depend on the government or this world’s economic system, the greater the control. So what we call government improvement means personal detriment. The problem is if you have a government that does not acknowledge or fear God, the regulatory and
compliance laws to these needy recipients can slowly edge their faith or God out. Yet Jesus gives us the command, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s.” To render means to fulfill one’s duty to someone; to give what is due; to give back, re-compensate, and restore. An earth state provides the welfare of its citizens who are obligated to support the government. But the citizens of God’s kingdom also owe allegiance to Him. In other words, we are only supposed to give Caesar what is due, not anything more. This is why a good tax accountant or strategist is important. As Christians, we have to honor God with our substance (Proverbs 3). Therefore when we pay taxes, good stewardship is required so that we give to the Lord’s work also. God’s money does not belong in Caesar’s pockets. According to Deuteronomy 26:12-19, the tithe (10% of your money earnings) is holy and set apart for the Lord. Also, we are admonished by the Apostle Paul to give offerings to support ministry (II Corinthians 8:1-7). We are also encouraged in scripture to give to the poor and the needy. None of this can be done with God’s money in Caesar’s pockets. So what can we begin to do to keep God’s money out of Caesar’s pockets? Here are some tips: 1) Make sure you are giving your employer an honest day’s work (Ephesians 4:28). Work to make a giving, not just a living. Your attitude toward work affects your ability to increase your salary and resources. (Ecclesiastes 5:19). 2) If employed, see your Human Resources Department and make sure you are claiming the proper exemptions. Sometimes you are getting an excess amount of taxes taken out early and you could be investing that money to increase your ability to give. 3) If a business owner or self-employed, sit down with someone who knows how to find the maximum deductions available to you. As clergy, you have many tax benefits like housing allowances and FICA exemptions if you qualify. This will help you keep God’s money out of Caesar’s pockets. 4) Be a tither! Don’t be a God robber. Whenever you give or render to God what is God’s and take care of his kingdom, He will take care of yours (Matthew 6:33; Malachi 3:8-12) If you follow these simple instructions, they will help you maintain a proper balance between what monies to render to Caesar (the government) and what to render to God’s kingdom work. Most of all, you will be keeping God’s money out of Caesar’s pockets.
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With Special Guest
TERRY BRADSHAW
Monday, March 28, 2011 6:15 - 8:45 pm MARTIN’S WEST – DOGWOOD RD. BALTIMORE GAME ON. Ready for a real 3 WAYS TO PLAY. ATTEND. Attend ABOUT THE FCA The Fellowchallenge? Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high and youth levels to use the powerful medium of athletics to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA is the largest Christian sports organization in America and is making an impact in your town, college, community and school system. The FCA focuses on serving local communities by equipping, empowering and encouraging people to make a difference for Christ. Come celebrate the things God has done in our midst at our annual Celebration and Fundraising Banquet this March. We can’t do what we do without you so we’re challenging our friends and supporters to make a significant donation to the FCA.
the banquet on Monday, March 28th. Simply register for you and any friends or family and we’ll see you there. Visit www.mdfca.org or call 410.891.2643 to reserve your seats today. SPONSOR. Consider being a sponsor for the banquet. Your investment will allow others to join you for an inspiring evening at no cost because of your commitment. You will be presented with the opportunity to join our game plan for impacting today’s youth by becoming a financial partner with Maryland FCA. Call Rick at 410.891.2643 to become a sponsor. GIVE. Can’t attend the event but still want to support the mission of the FCA? Please visit our website and consider a financial gift that will reach far beyond your circle of influence and help make a difference in your community, the state of Maryland and beyond.
16 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
ship of Christian Athletes has had tremendous success reaching middle school, high school and college students for Jesus Christ in Maryland. Currently involved in over 170 schools in this area, FCA is committed to present to athletes and coaches and all whom they influence the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationships and in the fellowship of the church.
FCA Maryland Office 913 Ridgebrook Rd., Ste. 300 Sparks, MD 21152 Phone: 410-891-2643 Fax: 410-785-3716 rconniff@fca.org www.mdfca.org
A larger-than-life personality known for his energy, zeal and enthusiasm both on and off the field, Terry Bradshaw is an All-American icon. From his achievements in football as a Hall of Fame quarterback and two-time Super Bowl MVP, to his celebrity success as television’s preeminent football analyst, best-selling author, television and film actor and gospel singer with three hit albums, Bradshaw is a beloved household name who came from humble beginnings to achieve astounding success. Having reached the pinnacle of professional accomplishment and survived the depths of depression, Bradshaw talks about sacrifice, pain, competition and adversity. He illuminates how his faith helped him reach levels of success he never dreamed possible. Admired for his unvarnished honesty and colorful style, Bradshaw is a three-time Emmy Award- winning co-host of America’s most-watched pregame show, FOX NFL Sunday. Bradshaw is the author of No Easy Game, the remarkably introspective autobiography Looking Deep and New York Times bestsellers It’s Only A Game and Keep It Simple. Come hear the dynamic testimony of one of the most prolific quarterbacks in history. Considered today’s preeminent NFL studio personality, Terry will motivate you with his inspirational style and personality. Join other friends and supporters of FCA for an extraordinary evening of dining and celebration.
governor’s page
STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
MARTIN O’MALLEY GOVERNOR STATE HOUSE 100 STATE CIRCLE ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND 21401-1925 (410) 974--3901 (TOLL FREE) 1-800-811-8336
TTY USERS CALL VIA MD RELAY
A MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY Dear Friends, March is Women’s History Month and the theme for 2011 is “Writing Women Back into History.” This annual celebration provides us with an opportunity to pay tribute to the vital role women play in American society. In Maryland, we are fortunate to have two extraordinary women representing us in the U.S. Congress. Senator Barbara Mikulski and House Representative Donna Edwards are serving our state with distinction on Capitol Hill. Representing Maryland’s 3rd district, Senator Mikulski was first elected to the Senate in 1986 and is now the longest serving female in the history of that body. A native of Baltimore, then U.S. Rep. Mikulski partnered with Sen. Orrin Hatch in 1981 to cosponsor the first Joint Congressional Resolution proclaiming a “Women’s History Week.” In 1987, Congress expanded the celebration over the entire month of March. Congresswoman Donna Edwards was sworn into office in June of 2008, becoming the first African American female to represent Maryland in the U.S. Congress. A native of Fort Washington, she represents Maryland’s 4th Congressional District, serving on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Please remember our leaders Senator Barbara Mikulski and Congresswoman Donna Edwards as we celebrate Women’s History Month 2011. Sincerely,
Martin O’Malley Governor
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18 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
& 3
education digest
TEACHERS The African American Male
A
American male teachers in at least one Maryland school district, Howard County. It’s also where Arthur Milton, a 5th grade teacher at Phelps Luck Elementary School, has become the exception rather than the rule. Milton, a graduate of Morgan State University, has been teaching for 14 years in Baltimore and Howard counties. He recalls that it was an African-American male teacher in his school as a teenager who motivated him to choose the profession. Milton shared, “It is a lot of work, it is very rewarding. But when you get to be a model for these kids that is your success, once they come back to you years later and you see what they have become or even while they were with you and you see their growth that’s your reward.”
Check it out!
few weeks ago I was assigned to report on the visit of President Barack Obama to Parkville Middle School in Baltimore County. It was during his visit that the President renewed his call to recruit 10,000 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) teachers over the next five years and to train 100,000 more over the next decade. But the President’s effort to draw more qualified teachers into the classroom must reach beyond these critical shortage subjects. There is another even more pressing void present on the American educational landscape, the need for more African-American male teachers. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the need for black male teachers is the greatest in elementary and middle schools. Education secretary Arne Duncan, during a recent Black History month appearance at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia shared these startling numbers. He said, “Black males represent 6 percent of the U.S. population yet 35 percent of the prison population and less than 2 percent of teachers, I can’t help but think, how far we have to go.” In a recent television news report, which aired on WBAL-TV (NBC), I shared that the numbers were just as dismal here in Maryland where there are a little more than 23-hundred African-American male teachers. I also learned that even those numbers represent a steady decline from nearly 28-hundred African-American male teachers just five years ago. There is one bright spot, there has been a slight increase in African-
So what does the future hold in this country’s effort to recruit and retain more African-American male teachers? Dr. Patricia Welch, Dean of Morgan State Universities School of Education, is rather optimistic. Welch shared with me, “There is a concerted effort on this campus to support the male student, the male learner and we are going to see evidence of that in the increased number of students who enter teaching careers.” This past September, the U.S. Department of Education launched the TEACH campaign. The mission of TEACH is to increase the number, quality, and diversity of teachers in the classroom. For more information on teaching, and how you can start your pathway to the classroom, visit www.teach. gov. Also, stay informed on pressing educational topics by watching my broadcast reports on WBAL-TV (NBC) and www.wbaltv.com. Just click on education alert. Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr. is the veteran education reporter for WBAL-TV (NBC) in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Tooten is also the Pastor and Founder of Harvest Christian Ministries in Baltimore County, Maryland.
Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr.
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A Salute To Dr. Maya Angelou
Global Renaissance Woman Dr
raised in St. Louis and Stamps, Arkansas. In Stamps, Dr. Angelou experienced the brutality of racial discrimination, but she also absorbed the unshakable faith and values of traditional African-American family, community, and culture.
Maya Angelou is one of the most renowned and . influential voices of our time. Hailed as a global renaissance woman, Dr. Angelou is a celebrated poet, memoirist, novelist, educator, dramatist, producer, actress, historian, filmmaker, and civil rights activist.
As a teenager, Dr. Angelou’s love for the arts won her a scholarship to study dance and drama at San Francisco’s Labor School. At 14, she dropped out to become San Francisco’s first African-American female cable car conductor. She later finished high school, giving birth to her son, Guy, a few weeks after graduation. As a young single mother, she supported her son by working as a waitress and cook, however her passion for music, dance, performance, and poetry would soon take center stage.
Born on April 4th, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Angelou was
In 1954 and 1955, Dr. Angelou toured Europe with a production of
20 March March 2011 2011 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 20
the opera Porgy and Bess. She studied modern dance with Martha Graham, danced with Alvin Ailey on television variety shows and, in 1957, recorded her first album, Calypso Lady. In 1958, she moved to New York, where she joined the Harlem Writers Guild, acted in the historic Off-Broadway production of Jean Genet’s The Blacks and wrote and performed Cabaret for Freedom. In 1960, Dr. Angelou moved to Cairo, Egypt where she served as editor of the English language weekly The Arab Observer. The next year, she moved to Ghana where she taught at the University of Ghana’s School of Music and Drama, worked as feature editor for The African Review and wrote for The Ghanaian Times. During her years abroad, Dr. Angelou read and studied voraciously, mastering French, Spanish, Italian, Arabic and the West African language Fanti. While in Ghana, she met with Malcolm X and, in 1964, returned to America to help him build his new Organization of African American Unity. Shortly after her arrival in the United States, Malcolm X was assassinated, and the organization dissolved. Soon after X’s assassination, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. asked Dr. Angelou to serve as Northern Coordinator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. King’s assassination, falling on her birthday in 1968, left her devastated. With the guidance of her friend, the novelist James Baldwin, she began work on the book that would become I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
Published in 1970, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings was published to international acclaim and enormous popular success. The list of her published verse, non-fiction, and fiction now includes more than 30 bestselling titles. A trailblazer in film and television, Dr. Angelou wrote the screenplay and composed the score for the 1972 film Georgia, Georgia. Her script, the first by an African American woman ever to be filmed, was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. She continues to appear on television and in films including the landmark television adaptation of Alex Haley’s Roots (1977) and John Singleton’s Poetic Justice (1993). In 1996, she directed her first feature film, Down in the Delta. In 2008, she composed poetry for and narrated the awardwinning documentary The Black Candle, directed by M.K. Asante. Dr. Angelou has served on two presidential committees, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Arts in 2000, the Lincoln Medal in 2008, and has received 3 Grammy Awards. President Clinton requested that she compose a poem to read at his inauguration in 1993. Dr. Angelou’s reading of her poem “On the Pulse of the Morning” was broadcast live around the world. Dr. Angelou has received over 30 honorary degrees and is Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University. Dr. Angelou’s words and actions continue to stir our souls, energize our bodies, liberate our minds, and heal our hearts. www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 21 21
22 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
nurse’s corner
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24 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
to your good health
Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC Executive Director Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
WHY CAN’T WE BE FRIENDS?
M
any of you may have noticed that I like listening to the oldies based upon some of my articles. One such song recently aired on the radio and the title was fitting for this month’s topic. It seems like developing and keeping friendships among women, especially African American women, can be challenging. I hear it all of the time from women across the various socioeconomic statuses and generations. Some women exclaim that they only have male friends or that women keep confusion going so they do not bother with them or because of past hurts it is easier to be alone. Others fear that their trust will be broken or that their love relationships will be compromised or they will become the topic of office gossip. Still others wonder if their would be friend has ulterior motives or is she genuinely interested in friendship. All of these are roadblocks to developing healthy friendships among women. It is not that these risks are not real but it is in the DNA of humanity to be in relationship with one another and women in particular thrive in the social context of friendship. Learning to be open to cultivating new friendships as well as maintaining current ones is important to one’s well-being. People live longer when they have friends. Their mental health is better. Their spiritual life is more enriching and their overall health is improved. These are the benefits of friendship. So how can we become better friends and begin new friendships? First we must do as Proverbs 18:24 so aptly puts it, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly.” (NKJ). We have to send positive vibes and body language to those we desire to be in relationship with. Actions help persons determine your intentions and being friendly is one sure sign to others that you may be open to getting to know them. Another verse in Proverbs defines what true friendship is all about when it declares, “A friend loves at all times.” (17:17, NIV). This means that even when people disappoint you as a friend, you are to love them like Jesus loves you. Love does not mean to take abuse
from someone but to deal with them gingerly and prayerfully. Developing new friendships can be difficult as we age but it is not impossible. Join groups that have interests you enjoy and see if you make connections with others who are like-minded. It is also possible to make friends with persons totally out of your normal circle. Jesus made it a point to be with people that were of different backgrounds and cultures. In fact, people chided him for his openness and he responded, “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and “sinners.” If Jesus Learning to be open to can expand his circle of friends to people with cultivating new friendships include mixed motives and impure intentions but as well as maintaining keep his integrity and maintain his current ones is important character, then so can we.
to one’s well-being.
Friendship is the key to expanding the Kingdom. Making new disciples in the twenty-first century is going to take more than distributing tracks and mailing people cd’s. People are looking for relationships. That is why social media web sites like Facebook, My Space, Linkedin, etc. are so popular. It is a new way of making friends without the work of what real friendship is all about. The time for excuses for not having friends is over. If Jesus can call us his friends what makes us think we are better than others when it comes to establishing friendships. If Abraham can be called a friend of God, what makes you selective in who you will befriend? The reality is that we all have flaws and making and keeping friends can be challenging. The challenge is worth it when you consider the benefits. Christians should be friendship magnets. Jesus said people would know we were his disciples by our love. Loving others through friendships and other relationships is doable. Stop making excuses for why we can’t be friends and start making opportunities for cultivating friendships. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 25
26 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
nutrition & you
MARCH IS NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH
Struggling to Manage Your Weight? Try Eating More! Herline Alison Knights, RD, LD
If you are watching your diet or working out strenuously, you may actually be telling your body to conserve its energy! Contrary to what many people think (that you have to severely cut portions or exercise intensely until you drop to lose any weight), you can get your body running like a machine by giving it the proper fuels and keeping it well-oiled. Carbs are a body’s best friend. Take it from an expert: The ultimate diet mistake is to cut out carbohydrates. This results in decreased metabolism and lower energy level. Fat is only burned in the flame of adequate carbohydrates. Low-carb diets cause quick water loss, not fat loss. Most cannot sustain such restrictive eating for very long, you eventually crave carbs so severely that you may actually binge on high-calorie, high-fat foods to satisfy the hunger. When you consume enough “healthy” carbohydrates – grains, vegetables and fruits – throughout the day, your body’s cravings for both energy and sweets will be satisfied. Ideally, we should get at least 50-60 percent of our daily calories from these foods, but the average American gets only 40-45 percent of calories from carbohydrates.
How do you know what to eat? Step one: Plan menus around the food pyramid (www.mypyramid. gov), starting with healthy “high fiber” carbohydrates like whole grains, cereals, rice, pasta, and starchy vegetables. At a minimum, allow for two servings (or one cup) from this group at each meal. If you are very active or trying to maintain weight, consider eating larger portions of these. Step two: Add in the second level of healthy carbohydrates – fresh fruits (two to four servings per day) and vegetables (five to eight servings per day). And fruit, a natural sugar source, is an excellent dessert or a snack option to help satisfy sugar cravings. Step three: Allow a minimum of two servings each from the meat and dairy categories. Correct portions are two to three servings, 3-4 ounces each, in the meat group, and two to three 8-ounce portions of milk or yogurt in the dairy group. Step four: Provide your body with small amounts of fats and oils daily. You need half your body weight in grams of essential fat per day found in vegetable fats: grain, seed and nut oils like those in salad dressing; oils; mayonnaise, and margarine. Don’t forget snacks. Grazing can help you to maintain higher overall energy. Starving your muscles by
not fueling them when you are truly hungry lowers your metabolism. Choosing snacks from both the fruit and bread group can energize you and raise your metabolism. What about exercise? We have heard for years that exercising, especially aerobically, raises the metabolism. Activities like cycling, walking, or swimming done on a regular basis helps to maintain a healthy heart and manage your weight. When planning any exercise regimen, consider three primary factors: intensity, duration, and frequency. Intensity refers to the heart rate you achieve during the exercise session, duration means the length of time you exercise per session, and frequency means how often you exercise during the week. While there is no best formula, experts generally agree that one’s heart rate should be in the target zone of 50 to 80 percent of the maximum heart rate (220 minus your age equals maximum heart rate), the duration should be a minimum of 30 minutes up to 60 minutes, and the frequency should be 3–5 times per week. Don’t forget adequate rest. Your body needs not just sleep but rest from physical activity to allow tissues to regenerate. Make sure that you take 1-2 days off from exercise per week. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27 27 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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God’s Too Good Tour with Guest Host Ivory Roberts, Jr.
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Tune into Blog Talk Radio. You never know who’s singing, rapping to make your day.
Experienced, trained and anointed prophets interact with a live audience to hear a prophetic word from God.
Join us as Dr. Watkins shares his knowledge and expertise on various illnesses and diseases.
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Our host will broaden our knowledge in areas of entrepreneurship, debt recovery/ budgeting, homeownership and other topics.
28 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
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body basics
Why Does Exercise
HURT So Bad? Many people shy away from exercise because of the expected pain that follows a vigorous workout. Exercising is not a painless journey. We all have heard the cliché, “No Pain No Gain!.” This not only holds true in the fitness arena, whether its spiritual, educational or physical, growth can be quite painful. So once we accept that pain is unavoidable, let’s look at some ways to make this process manageable.
Many clients tell me they are sore after one of my workouts, and this is the reason why. Muscle soreness describes a phenomenon of muscle pain and soreness that is felt 12-48 hours following exercise; particularly at the beginning of a new exercise program, after a change in physical activities, or after a dramatic increase in the duration or intensity of exercise. The soreness is generally at its worst within the first two days following the activity and subsides over the next few days.
Muscle soreness is quite common, particularly when we put a tremendous amount of stress on our muscles. A beginning exerciser who simply does some pushups and sit-ups is likely to experience muscle pain and soreness in the next day or two. Muscle soreness is thought to be a result of microscopic tearing of the muscle fibers. The amount of tearing (and soreness) depends on how hard and long you exercise and what type of exercise you do. Any movements you aren’t used to can lead to muscle soreness, but eccentric movement (movements that cause muscle to forcefully contract while it lengthens) seems to cause the most soreness. An example of an eccentric muscle contraction is lowering weights in a downward motion (the negative)
toward your body. This is just one of many ways you can experience pain after lifting weights.
So you may ask, is there anyway to prevent muscle soreness? Nothing is proven effective, but some studies have found the following advice helpful, but it’s best for an individual to try a few things to see what works for them.
Charles Harris III AFAA Certified Fitness Trainer
Here are some tips for dealing with soreness after exercise: 1. Start a new weight lifting routine with light weights and high reps (10-15), and gradually increase the amount you lift over several weeks. 2. Avoid making sudden major changes in the type of exercise you do. 3. Avoid making sudden major changes in the amount of time that you exercise. 4. Avoid adding a significant amount of weight to your routine suddenly. Low-impact exercises the day after your workout, has been proven to help relieve some muscle soreness. Examples of low-impact activities are walking, stationary biking and low level aerobic classes. A post-workout massage can help release the amount of lactic acid in the muscle, which helps relieve some muscle soreness. I realize that pain is not fun, and going through the process is challenging. Over time muscle soreness will diminish, but it will never totally go away. Keep your focus on the many benefits of exercise and that should help you cope. Always remember that pain is your friend! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 29
30 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
a woman’s perspective
In life we make decisions that at the moment we believe is correct but we later find out are dangerous. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox, Director Baltimore Office of Cable and Communications Most people like to live life like there is no tomorrow but never realize that we need to live life as God would have us.
Daily we are ordered to arrange activities in our life to reach the next goal. What preparation do you take in doing this? Do you face a problem head on or do you ask for guidance from God? Even what we perceive as the smallest challenge can end up presenting itself as a catastrophic mistake that could consequently ruin our lives. How long does it take to seek guidance from God? Well think about it like this, the time you take fixing a problem that could have been avoided if you only waited patiently and listening for God’s direction could save you a lifetime of pain and heartache! Don’t Live Life like there is no tomorrow, Live Life for God! Until Next Time….
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32 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
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36 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
word of encouragement
Donna Williams-Ross
Why would Jesus say the above-referenced scripture to His disciples? He had already told them in John Chapter 14:15-18 that when He ascended back to the Father, He would send the Holy Spirit – the Comforter, the One who would lead them into all truth. The Holy Spirit that would endow them with power and work through them to bring glory to God’s name in the earth. They saw the blinded eyes open; they saw Lazarus raised from the dead after four days. They saw the feedings of both the 4,000 and the 5,000. They saw Him give a command and water was turned into wine – all those things were miraculous! Every miracle He performed they were basically right there. They had seen Him keep His promises of rising from the dead in three days. Then why be repetitious Jesus? Jesus knew that without the Holy Spirit – there would be no spiritual power. Anyone can have physical power – but spiritual power – that would come from the Holy Spirit living on the inside of them. Jesus knew that deception was one of the major tactics the devil would use to instill fear into the disciples. He knew that without the Holy Spirit living on the inside of them that satan would bombard them, lie to them. It is the Believers’ place to let the world know about
Jesus. We are the ones designated by God to spread the Good News. You shall receive power [authority, control, influence, clout, dominance]. Understanding the power that was living on the inside of them, was the key to victory for them, and for us it is that same dunamis power that will give us the victory. Let’s look at power in the natural realm. In this earth realm, when someone has power they can make major decisions and not even be questioned. Here’s an example: A sheriff sees an 18 wheeler driving at 80 miles per hour, puts his siren on and signals for that 18 wheeler to stop. Technically that 18 wheeler can keep going and not acknowledge that sheriff, but know for a fact that the driver and the company he represents stands the chance of getting into a lot more trouble than if the driver chose to ignore the sheriff. The power that the sheriff is operating in, is the power given to him by the Government. He knows that driving that car and the wearing of that badge are far more powerful than any 18 wheeler. How does that relate to you in this present time? If Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, then Acts 1:28 is speaking directly to you. You have the power – to do greater things – in this earth realm by the Holy Spirit that is living on
the inside of you. You have the power to stop the devil in his tracks. He is counting on the fact that you don’t know the power that you have living on the inside of you. If you ever need to yield yourself to the Holy Spirit, now is the time. It is the Holy Spirit power than can heal sickness and disease, raise the dead, open blinded eyes, cause the lame to walk. It is the Holy Spirit living on the inside of you that can cause the wealth transference to take place so that houses can be built for the poor, the sick can be visited and cared for and the hungry can be fed. Jesus said in Matthew 25:40 “And the King will reply to them, truly I tell you, in so far as you did it for one of the least [in the estimation of men] of these My brethren, you did it for Me. I encourage you today to recognize the power that you have been given. I encourage you to allow the Holy Spirit to do God’s work through you. Prayer: Father, in the Name of Jesus, I thank You for reminding me of the power of the Holy Spirit that lives on the inside of me. I decree and declare that I will yield myself to your Precious Holy Spirit so that what You have called and ordained for me to do in the earth will be done, amen. www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 37 37
Carter’s Commentary
You Say You Want A
REVOLUTION lyrics from the Beatles 1968 song, “Revolution” when student demonstrations had reached fever pitch around the world World history is replete with revolutions. In some way, the Creation
Story, itself, is a kind of revolution. Of course, more recent history records the accounts of The American Revolution (1775-1783), the French Revolution (17891799), and the Industrial Revolution (mid 1500’s), which changed the course of modern history. The United States used the power of this revolution to catapult itself into a world superpower. It is commonly believed that this revolution changed the ways of how the world produced goods, etc. Typically, a revolution – taken from the Latin word revolutio (“a turn around”) is a fundamental change in power or organizational structures that takes place in a relatively short period of time. Revolt, revolving; anything revolving is changing and, technically, may be called a revolution. Experts in this area state that a revolution is usually caused by unjust laws, excessive taxes, unnecessary wars, and oppressive leadership. It is the latter that claims our attention for this month’s commentary. On the morning of Friday, February 11, I was at my desk, in my home-office, gathering information and making notes for this commentary. I had set out to do a piece about revolution inasmuch as the world had been keeping track of the protest that has been taking place in Cairo, Egypt for the previous eighteen days. About the time that I felt that I had adequate information and was ready to begin a first draft, I casually turned the television on only to witness a nation cheering, singing and shouting “Egypt is free! Egypt is free!” And, in the context of Islam, “Praise God, Praise God!” For me, and my wife, Monique (whom I asked to witness this moment in history, as well) I know that what I was watching was one of the more poignant experiences of this post-modern age that would occur, in my (our) lifetime. You see, up until that day, for the protestors in Egypt, revolution had been in-the-making. On February 11, revolution came… and the whole world could watch. It was a grass roots protest-revolution being covered and observed by a technological/ media-driven revolution. To be sure, the whole, entire Egyptians revolution may have been the direct result of another kind of revolution: the digital revolution. 38 March 2011 | Grace&Glory
Dr. Harold A.Carter, Jr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, Baltimore, MD
It is believed that a 30 year old Egyptian executive for Google had much to do with starting the protest, on his Facebook page, which led to the revolution, having been affected, if not inspired, by the martyrdom of a street vendor in Tunisia, who’d set himself on fire in protest of the police who seized his cart and the produce he was trying to sell. Even more, the larger picture was one of police brutality. As a result, vendor Mohamed Bouazizi’s act provoked the first anti-governmental demonstration in Tunisia and soon spawned others, like Noel Ghonim, the Google marketing director, to take action. Once Ghonim began calling for protest against the oppressive Egyptian presidency of Hosni Mubarak, the thoughts of his ouster and/or resignation began to become possibilities. At first mostly young, male university students began assembling in Tahrir Square, in Cairo, but soon hundreds became thousands and thousands became hundreds of thousands, until the numbers exceeded a million, including women and persons of all ages; many of whom left their jobs, homes, etc. and literally camped out, in the square every day. Meanwhile, Ghonim went missing two days after the protest began, having been arrested, and for several days was blind-folded and placed in solitary confinement. He was quoted after his thankful release, as saying that he was “super scared,” although he said that he had not been tortured. Is it possible that the eventual ouster of Pres. Mubarak who stepped down, having been defiant for 17 days, can be solely attributed to one individual and his Facebook page? Probably not. However, without question Ghonim and (as another commentator wrote) “10 folk in a small apartment in Egypt,” had much to do with using social media and cell phones to start the revolution. Essentially, the digital revolution and social media mattered much in the Egyptian revolution. After all, the government shut down the internet and cell phones a day, or two, into the protest. And, as Pres. Barack Obama and Secretary of State Clinton, went back and forth about what position to take on whether Pres. Mubarak should stay or go, the one thing that they were in agreement of was that he should turn the internet an cell phones back on. Although the importance of social media loomed large, it does not incarnate freedom. Freedom, and the quest
for it, are innate within the human experience. It is said that the Civil Rights Movement/ Revolution (if you will) was largely contained to the deep south until television coverage exposed the brutality of the likes of the Bull Connor’s and George Wallace’s to viewers in the north. Television was the “social media” of the 60’s but the real revolution were those who defied the “powers-that-be.” It’s hard to fit the human spirit and quest for liberty and freedom into a cyberspace narrative, but without radio, television, satellite, internet, etc., the window for the world to bare witness would be extremely small. And, more importantly, the means to communicate in an effort to galvanize would be tremendously limited. Consequently, the real revolution can be found in the miracle of the million(s) who took to the streets, without violence, without organization, and without any prospective leader or leadership to replace the president. In a word, all they had was their will. It had been reported that Mubarak’s administration and the military assumed that the protestors would have their say only to dwindle in numbers after a few days and go home. But, as has been said, “You cannot stop a people who’ve seen the Promised Land.” In fact, the only violence that occurred during the 18 days is believed to have been incited by the Mubarak sympathizers and the Brotherhood of Islam who thought they could agitate the masses into retaliating. Well, they didn’t retaliate and they didn’t go home. Interestingly, the media has subsequently begun to refer to what took place in Egypt as a “soft coup,” meaning that it was a revolution without warfare. One of Ghonim’s comments was “We can be angry. We can’t be violent.” I wonder where he and his other brothers and sisters, of like mind, got that from? Didn’t Dr. King espouse the same philosophy of nonviolence and love? I wonder where he got his philosophy from? Perhaps, it was Ghandi. I wonder where he got it from? To be sure, long before Ghandi, there was a “man” by the name of Jesus, who revolutionized Jewish thought, as well as this world, when He taught, “Ye have heard… Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you….” (St. Matthew 5:43 & 44).
New Fellowship Christian Community Church 5200 Park Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD
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40 March 2011 | Grace&Glory