Express Me, Express You, Embrace We
Cover Story 12 Married To Ministry with Evangelist Vatrice Davis
Featured 6 Healed, Encouraged & Restored with Tierra Clark 18 CEO Life ~ When I Said Yes To ME with Conchetta Jones
22 Make It Happen
with Author K. Moneak
Voices of LASUMXP & Guests 3
Editor’s Heart Beat
Prophet Monique Strong
24
Nailz GlamHer
25
A Woman of Grace & Warring Wisdom
28
Pieces of Me
32
Fitabulously Me
36
Dear Mini Me
38
The Healing Process: Release
Shana Sanders
Apostle Denise Chase
w/Chef Chantea w/Chastity Logan w/Shelly Winters w/M. Charleston
To share your story or advertise with us, send an email to: mzmoministry@gmail.com
As I stand looking out of my window, it is not a fairytale view that I see. So I’ll spend this time reflecting, as I sip coffee from my favorite coffee mug, thanking God for vision. Having sight allowed me to witness much throughout my life. While it wasn’t all good, or bad, I know for sure that I would sincerely miss the gift of sight, if it was taken away from me. For this reason, I am truly grateful to be able to see. As one of God’s prophets, there is another type of sight or vision that we are graced with. This one has yielded a great struggle for me on many occasions. Finally, I am settling in and growing in understanding of how it operates and fearing it less and less. Fear. Yes, as a woman who loves and trust Gods, not to mention serves Him, I have had bouts with fear, anxiety and even depression. My calling doesn’t exempt me from life, emotions, thoughts, hardships, struggles, or warfare, any more than it guarantees me favor. If anything it lines me up for warfare. But I am glad to know that God is right there covering me and backing me up. It is very interesting the things that make up our perception and shape our perspective. The ideas we have about life, others and how we all should live. How unbeknownst to us we truly limit ourselves and shun many because they don’t fit into our limited views, cutting off some who could lend to some of the most precious moments of our lives. Well, thank God for the FREEDOM to live out loud and choose the colors that make up the pictures of our life. During my reflection, I had some flashback Friday worthy moments. There is the new radio station in Chicago, 104.3. They play the best 90’s throwback jams. You know I used to love me some Tupac and his lyrical genius, Naughty By Nature, Biggie couldn’t give me one more chance, but I sure did rock out to his jams. When I’m alone in my room sometimes I stare at the wall and in the back of mind I hear my conscience call… Oh LL, this song was dropped in the 80’s and this was that era when music videos were the thing. Don’t let my girl Eve or MC Lyte come on, suuuuuuugar you couldn’t tell me I wasn’t a rap queen. LOL. Now, don’t get it twisted, I had a buzz for my Chi-Town sounds too. Crucial Conflict, I never fooled with the hay in the barn. Too scared of it, but I would snap when the song came on. R. Kelly’s tunes caused trouble, so we will fast forward past his tunes. No need for those lanes of memory. Sigh. Those weren’t the only ones I enjoyed listening to, but this isn’t a rendition or a resurrection of Yo’ MTV Raps or late night slow jams either. Shucks, I grew up on dusties! Music was fun, dancing even better. Clubs and parties were much different for me. I don’t go to clubs anymore and honestly, it wasn’t due to my relationship with Christ. They became noisy, rowdy and dangerous while seeming like a waste of my time. I couldn’t hear, you couldn’t check out a sister’s shoes, without starting a war. It just hasn’t been my scene for many years. But I still find inspiration and enjoyment in songs that aren’t gospel or considered worship music. Jill Scott, Kindred Family Soul, India Arie and other Neo Soul artist tend to wake up my inner poet. Singing may not have been one of my gifts, but OH HOW I love music. None of this, I mean none of this takes away from my calling, cancels out my gifts or voids my purpose. With all of this, I am still chasing after God, With my hands lifted up and my mouth filled with praise, Giving Him all of me, declaring consistently that He deserves it (all of my praise). Now if you were able to remember the artist previously mentioned, try to identify those that penned the lyrics to the four songs I just remixed. The theme for this issue of LASUMXP is “Pieces of Me”. It was inspired by the song Ledisi recorded. I forgot to mention that I love her music as well. Ooo and Chrisette Michelle. Music is a form of artistic expression and through it, we connect, explore and so much more. But again, this isn’t about music. It’s about what makes up me and you. At the “#iRememberMe” gathering, we did an “I AM…” activity. By the way, the event
was amazing! I will post pics on the site the first week of April. Who are we? What makes us US? Careful now, be sure lies haven’t shaped your view. Be gentle with yourself, as you are a designer’s original and you are destined to discover something unique about you, that no one else has. During the “#iRememberMe” gathering we also wrote letters to a younger us. Well, the attendees did. I was too busy trying to eat a couple of wingdings, real quickly. One of our panelists read hers aloud. Boy oh boy… You had to be there. However, we have a guest writer for this issue that shared hers with us. WOW! Also, we are trying to get her to join our team. Just keep reading queens. But I have a question for you all. What would you tell your younger self? How far back would you go? As usual, we have some amazing women that came together and penned their hearts for this issue. I hope you enjoy them, as much as I did or even more while packaging them for your reading pleasure. Don’t just read the one someone you know submitted. Check out the entire issue. If you can’t get through it all in one sitting, set alarms in your phone to go back and read the other pieces. But read it, reach out and share how it blessed you. I love hearing back from our readers. Email me, connect with me on the social media sites and let me know how you enjoyed the issue. Let me know some of the things you would like us to cover. I will reach out to ladies who have plenty of wisdom to share about those areas and get those nuggets out to you. It has been fun working on LASUMXP and I would love for you to join me. I’m looking for a coordinator, editor, focus group for topics, writers {fashion blogger, financial blogger, healthy lifestyle blogger, fitness blogger, relationship blogger, Inspirational blogger, and more}. Don’t be shy. Dip your toe in the water and let’s learn to swim together. You’ve got this sis! You were graced for this! Now, come on we have a sound to release and your voice will help to get us there. Enjoy and don’t forget to share it with every woman you know. Love you all. Hugs, kisses, favor and Kingdom living be your portion. Smooches Queens! Xoxo Keep IT Kingdom!
Monique Strong
LASUMXP Editor In Chief
info@LASUM.org
www.moniquestrong.org Social Media Handles: @prophetMonique
Healed, Encouraged & Restored By Tierra Clark
Have you ever felt that life as you know it slipped through the cracks and you didn't know how to get it back? Well, I'm here to tell you there is life after a death sentence. My name is Tierra Clark and I have been on more rides of life than an amusement park. You are talking to a girl who has been molested, gang-raped, suicidal, depressed, labeled, called ugly, and said will never amount to anything. Although it may have been true in their eyes, God saw something different. Here's my story. At the age of 12, my father left my mother and I became withdrawn. That's where my downhill journey started. I was sent to a Mental Institution at the age of 12 that’s where I was diagnosed with bipolar, PTSD, depression, and personality disorders at various stages of my life. They put me on different medicines that almost killed me. Am I ashamed of this? I use to be but now I know I am more than my story and even in the midst of darkness, God will shine a light. I thought the dreadful journey would have ended there but at the age of 15, I was gang raped. This continued a cycle of “Love is supposed to hurt”. So, I began to look for love in all of the wrong places until I ended up in a domestic violence relationship that almost cost me my life. I have endured physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. To deal with the pain, I became a cutter because I needed to release the pain I felt inside. As if life was not hard enough, I became displaced, but for lack of better words, I was homeless trying to find my way through life. Even though I didn’t have a vision for my life, God did. The Bible says in Job 8:7 ~ “Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase.” Even though in the beginning things looked a little dim, this life I currently live has made ever scar worth it. It wasn't until I gained an adequate support team, shifted my focus, and began a new profound relationship with God, that my life began to shift. So, let me properly introduce my redefined self. God has graced me with many gifts and talents but the one that's near and dear to me is spoken word. I had the gift of spoken word pushed out of me at the tender age of 12 where I begin to find my voice. Writing poetry is a healing tool I use often to get through the stressors of life. I speak from a pure and authentic place. I have been writing and performing for almost sixteen years. I have been on some amazing platforms. Through the gift of writing, two heartfelt poetry books were birthed entitled “Purposely Broken and Purposeful Restoration”. Both books are telling my journey through life. Spoken word is life! My name is Tierra Denise Clark and I am the proud founder of B H.E.R (Healed, Encouraged, Restored Empowerment where I empower, motivate, and encourage through the gift of spoken word, dance, mentorship, and motivational speaking. Just to get to know me, I am also a proud member of The City of David Movement under the Leadership of Pastor Tyree Beard and Lady Jennifer Beard where I am grateful to serve. I am involved in several things such as Goal Digger Movement Network, Mentor for Colored are Cover Girls, a mentee of Promise Mentoring, a member of 3BM spoken word group and the list goes on. These organizations have helped shape me into the individual that I am today. I know I may have said a lot during this article, but I want to make sure you receive the message. There is life after your worst storms. I wanted to give up because of the journey that I had to endure. I tried to commit suicide but when there is purpose on the inside of you, God is not going to allow you to abort the mission. I want to encourage anyone who reads this to let you know that YOU SHALL LIVE AND NOT DIE! You are supposed to be here on purpose. Don't let what you are facing be the end of the story, but put a comma in the problem, so you can continue on to a solution. I thought my pain was my end but it was just my stepping stone to my next! Don't condemn your next to your ex! Yes, your used to be! There is power in you! There is authority in you! I speak to every dry place and say live! So that's it I am done! I want you to know you are H.E.R. You are Healed, Encouraged, and Restored. Be Blessed. Oh yeah, you can find me on social media as Tierra Clark and both of my Books are on Amazon. I can be booked for different events!
I k a Spe e f i L
Know your worth and then add tax!
~ Author Unknown
Seasoned and Forty! You thought you knew but you had NO IDEA until 40 came upon you. There I was thinking I knew it ALL. Everyone yet everything mattered. See in your 20's life was carefree and you did it all with no regret. So you THOUGHT!! Then your 30's showed up and life suddenly twisted a little. You had to be the adult you claimed you were since age 18. Well, well, well 40's have knocked at the door and you invited them in.. IT JUST GOT REAL!! Here I am 45yrs into my life's journey and I have learned Who God TRULY Is (daily lessons), what battles to fight, the real definition of FRIENDSHIP, why family is Important yet NOT always loyal, what My Purpose Is and Simply to just shut my mouth and yet walk away. See on the morning of May 28, 2012, I opened my eyes and Life began!! I stepped into LIVING. Living a life that GOD has prepared me for. I NO longer care what people think or say. The World's OPINION doesn't seem relevant now. I am who I am (uniquely and wonderfully made)!! I've never FIT into a box. Especially, not one made by MAN. So you do you and ALLOW me to be GREAT!! I now live in a POSITIVE realm. Yet live to Encourage, Uplift and Inspire all. I took the Garbage (people, places and things) out at age 39 and the dumpster has been removed. 40’s are HEAVY enough. You see your 40's show you how to appreciate the small things: GOD, quiet nights in, Naps, Girls Night that consists of tacos, ice cream, and a good cry, and Family. But Most IMPORTANTLY SLEEP! The most IMPORTANT change is that your eyes are open, but you also had to get new glasses for clearer VISION. Your hearing is at its BEST because you have now SHUT the chatter out and you now only allow the TRUE LOVE of God and those that matter in. Now you're considered to be a bit SELFISH yet CHANGED. Which is TRUE!! Due to the fact that life brings change with GROWTH. So call me selfish yet GROWN!! You see the 40’s show what REALLY matters on this journey called LIFE. So GET READY! It's worth the WAIT! I cannot wait for WHAT my 50’s have in store... Signed Seasoned, Yet Still Simmering (Aneshia Smith) Smith)
With Evangelist Vatrice Davis Married to ministry, what does that mean for a young 34-year-old woman? What does that look like to her peers, her family, her ride and die friends that saw her before ministry? Better yet how does that look to her family, her husband that found her uncovered, in and out of the church, preacher’s kid fighting, keying cars, and a girl that tolerated no foolishness, who always had a quick clap back for anyone standing in her way. How and who would even marry her let alone, how would she find herself in ministry. My journey into ministry is not like everyone’s, as we all have different turning points. But the one thing we all do have in common is a Father that is rooting for us to come out. A Father that is willing and waiting for us to come to Him. A Father that isn’t looking to judge us but to simply love us; even in our mess. Yes, I had quick clap backs. Yes, I had a child at 17 years old. Yes, I was a fornicator, and yes I had an abortion. But God loved me through all of that and some. Which in return started my process to me discovering my purpose and mantle. Some heartaches in life push you to a place of self-discovery. Which in my case, it pushed me to God, which pushed me into my purpose. I always had the heart to help others. When I was a kid, I wanted to be 3 things, a nurse, lawyer, or preacher. My sister and I would play school, church, and jury. My passion was always to help and see others hearts. I always looked for the good in the person, before acknowledging anything else. So, it was fairly easy for me to accept my purpose in life because I was already formulated for it, but not always easy to perform. I tell women and teens all the time, your purpose/your ministry has a way of finding you. As Proverbs 18:16 tells us “A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men”. I like to say your purpose will bring you before your mantle. Which brings me to my ministry; VSD Ministries. My ministry is not just about preaching, that is far from it. My ministry is the heartbeat for Women and teenage girls looking for their identity and purpose in God and within the society. I know what it means for people to tell you, “Well you pregnant now, guess you’re going to be on the system all of your life” or better yet the stinger “your life is ruined now”. Can you image hearing those words from people you looked up to, people that you thought highly of? No need to imagine, I heard them, and it was a seed planted from that day forth. A seed that pushed me to my purpose, no matter what. My purpose was birthed from that seed. VSD Ministries was birthed from those words, that came to destroy, but God used to spark and push me to something greater. I have been given the grace to help young women and teens, by providing free mentorship classes, host empowerment conferences in different cities, as well as help here locally, in IL. By providing hats, gloves, and winter items in the winter season and for Christmas gifts for families. Our two most recent accomplishments, we were able to adopt an apartment complex and provided everyone with winter gear, and we donated and shipped 900 bottles of water to a Charter school in Flint, MI. Many have asked why Flint. I know what it is to be left out or forgotten. Many thought the water was fixed, but not so. Ministry is abroad, yes we are to take care of home, but if God sends you elsewhere to be a support, then do so, that is ministry too. God has also opened the door for us to partner with two local schools of District 131, as we provide mentorship for middle and high school girls, along with sitting on the pregnancy crisis board that help young teens, like myself find hope in a dim situation to avoid abortion. So how does one embrace their mantle/purpose? One day at a time, one assignment at a time. When I gave God a for real yes on June 2nd almost 9 years ago, in the middle of my bedroom floor, not knowing what was in store for me, but I was ready to truly surrender to my purpose, His will. I knew it would cost me some friends, some relationships, and some growing pains along the way. I was at a place and nothing else would
do. I didn’t care about what or who I would lose because anything worth having will always cost you. So why not surrender to a plan that was handpicked, designed, tailor-made for you to succeed within while giving God the honor. Each mantle comes with pit stops, but those pit stops are there to sharpen you and push you to even greater heights. One cannot afford not to embrace their mantle, as too many people depend on and need the mantle that’s on your life. “And how can they hear without a preacher? Romans 10:14”. Same is true for everyone, not just preachers. How can one be clothed without a designer? Better yet, how can one embrace their mantle, without a passion and call for it? Our mantles are ours, it is our gift from God. So we must embrace it as such. We should learn it, groom it, and handle it with care. Can you remember getting a gift from someone that you really wanted? Do you remember how you took care of it, looked at it every day, and made sure no one misused it? The same goes for our mantle. God has called us to be good stewards of it. So embrace it, acknowledge it, sharpen it, cover it and BE SENSITIVE to the maker of it. I have learned how to embrace it through following these steps. Challenges that I have faced? Ha, where do I start? But seriously, I think the one challenge that I faced in my walk, whether in ministry or not was becoming everyone for everybody and leaving Vatrice out. People pull, life pulls, obligations pull, issues pulls, ministry pulls, and society pulls, at one point I lost my self in the pulls. It is very quick and easy to do so. You get so wrapped up and busy that you literally began to forget about you, your desires, and watch this, you get out of sync with God and your identity. Because now you are juggling being a; mom, wife, mentor, evangelist, board member, spiritual life coach, daughter, sister, non-profit owner, and etc. That you risk getting out of sync with God and you and, once you get out of sync with God and who you are, everything begins to unravel. I saw on a show a lady broke her name down and spoke to me in so many ways. Evangelism is what I do, preach, teach, and bring the gospel to others, that’s my calling. Vatrice is who I am, it is my identity, and Davis is my legacy for myself, my husband and kids, i.e., The Davis’ Family. If whatever I am doing, seeking to do, or being asked to do, can’t fit into those 3 particles of me, all at the same time, then it simply isn’t my assignment. And we have to be okay with that. Example, I was about to preach, and the man of God leaned over and said, “Woman of God, can you sing? We can have them play you a song and you can sing.” Ha, I said no sir, but they can play and sing, and I will come up after. Ha; my identity; Vatrice, I know I can’t carry a note across the street. So, no sir that’s not for me. Funny story but true, we have to know who we are in the small things and big things. Lessons learned in ministry: Never lose who you are, and don’t forget the promise God made you, no matter how long it takes. What does being married to ministry mean to me? Wow, like being married in the natural. It has its high moments, and at times it has its harder moments. But just like in a marriage, you don’t throw in the towel, you love it even harder and you keep pressing forward. You stay true to the ministry in its entirety. What do I mean by that? Ministry starts within first. It starts with you, and your household. Just like a bride gets ready for her marriage, there is an inward change and mental preparation. Same concept, being married to ministry there is an inward change that takes place. The inward change should teach you to balance, discipline, love, understanding, and should unlock ideas, passion, and so much more. It should not become a burden, something you simply are ready to divorce. Will it come with heartache at times? Well yes, they are called growing pains. But never to the point where it is a burden, if so then is it time to get into God’s presence to seek guidance. Being married to ministry shouldn’t have you to a place where you are so heaven bound that you are no earthly good. Remember we are all placed here for a purpose, but if you are unreachable then you have failed your assignment already. We are made to laugh, smile and enjoy the people God has placed in our lives. We can’t attend every church function, every revival, and every musical. Wives, it is okay to tell the Women’s ministry, my husband and I have a date night. Husbands, it is okay to tell the Pastor, I am taking my wife out. Singles it
is okay to go to a movie with the person of the opposite sex, and after the movie, everybody goes to their own home. It is okay to enjoy life, God wants to see us prosperous; prosperous in joy, love, wisdom, and understanding. So married to ministry means to me; to simply be married to ministry in all aspects and areas of my life, keeping God 1st and seeing everything in proper balance with His wisdom, with it starting within me and mines first and always. I have just released a Journal “Lord Who Am I” which is 21 Days of Discovering You, along with a bonus attached in the back “How to Pray in 10 Words or Less”. Many people ask, how do I pray or what should I be praying. There is no wrong or right way to talk to God. This guide just helps you, along with giving you tips on how to pray God’s word back to Him. Please visit my website at www.vsdministries.com to purchase your copy and to check out what we are up to. Please feel free to email us at www.vsdministries@gmail.com for any questions as well. Last words of encouragement for Women in ministry. Very simple 6 words, NEVER DISQUALIFY OR COMPROMISE YOUR ANOINTING! You are just as qualified, anointed, and called as the next one. If God spoke it, THEN who are you to let others, situations and watch this…YOURSELF; disqualify you. Evangelist Vatrice Davis www.vsdministries@gmail.com www.vsdministries.com
CEO Life ~ When I Said Yes To ME By Conchetta Jones I always feel honored when I am asked to share my story. I love when I can inspire and motivate other women, often using my life as an example. I know that is my purpose, to motivate and inspire other women. I used to wonder why I had to go through some of the things that I went through during my life. Honey, that is another time. A book probably. The life and times of Conchetta. LOL. I make myself laugh. But now I know my experiences can motivate and encourage others. If I made it through, so can they. I must say that I am proud of the things that I have accomplished. You see as a teen mom at the age of 16 and a wife at 17, some people thought that I would end up with a house full of children and on welfare. Well, they were partially right. I was on welfare for a little bit. I didn’t finish high school, but I took the GED test. I didn’t go away to college when my friends were going. I attended college, getting credits, often taking one class a semester. It took me many years, but in 2010 I received my Bachelors and 2012 my Masters. How about that for the girl who some said wouldn’t amount to much? So, let’s see, how did I get to where I am now? Where exactly am I do you ask? Well, I am an author. I have five books on Amazon. Writing is something that I have always loved. I wrote my first fiction story in the seventh grade. But I never wanted to let other people read my thoughts. They were just so personal. Especially the fiction books. And actually, I just released my fiction in 2017.Two books and I am working on a third one. I am always telling other people to step out of their comfort zone, so it was time for me to take my own advice. I am a speaker, that in itself is a major accomplishment. Because I was always so scared to speak in public. Back in my earlier college days, I flunked my English Communications classes because I could not stand in front of the class and present my speeches. I had to take that class three times at three different colleges. I model and I train models. Back when I moved here and tried to get into the modeling industry, I had a hard time because I am short. But I worked with major hair care companies, with Luster Products being my longest. I modeled and traveled with them for nine years. I am a personal development and confidence coach and I am Founder/CEO of She’s All That! A personal development and mentoring organization for girls. I don’t share any of this to brag, but to inspire you to know that there are no limits. You can do whatever you put your mind to if you want it bad enough. Whatever your dream is…go for it. You see, I have always known that I was meant to do more. Even when I was living in a shabby white apartment in Mobile, Alabama. There were seven apartments on the block, owned by the same slum lord. I still remember his name; Mr. Mitchell. My apartment had holes in the screens and the paint was peeling. I was making $2.00 an hour working at a printing company and I was getting food stamps. It wasn’t the credit card type Link card, but the actual food stamps that came in the book. People would often give me dirty looks when I pulled them out to use. Yep, I have come a long way from those days. God is good. My first marriage lasted five years. He cheated, I found out, we divorced. We were just too young. We are great friends today, but back then not so much. Through it all, I must admit that he has always been an amazing father to our son. But back to me and my story. I am a certified life coach. My specialty is personal development and confidence. How I came to be a coach is the result of my working with coaches. Back when the coaching phase started, I was not a fan. I just didn’t see it. I would always say I didn’t need somebody to tell me how to live my life. I thought it was a waste of money. Well, the young lady that I eventually hired changed all of my doubt. But I basically only did it to prove her wrong. It was almost like I was doing it so I could say, “see told you so” But working with her was amazing. She helped me to get the thoughts that were all in my head out of my head and on paper and then into action. She supported me and
encouraged me and yep, coached me to step out of my comfort zone and to do it afraid. It was the work that I did with Da-Nay Macklin that started me on the road to being a business owner. After Da-Nay, I started working with Monique Caradine and through the work, I did with these two amazing women I knew I wanted to be a coach and to do the same type of work with women. In 2016 I became a certified life coach. I wish I could tell you that everything is roses and I make a lot of money. But I wouldn’t lie to you like that. I like to be transparent. Remember my goal is to motivate and inspire. I still work a full-time job as I grow my business. I like to say that I have the best of both worlds. I actually like my job at the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. And I love the work that I do with women and girls. Now, remember when I told you that I was a speaker? Well, that is a major accomplishment. I have always been super afraid to speak in front of people. Public speaking was just a dream. I wanted to be a speaker, but I didn’t want to speak…If that makes sense. I could see myself doing it, I would see other people speaking and I would be envious, but I never took the opportunity to speak when people asked me to. See my husband is a Pastor, and people expected me to speak. Wrong answer. Not me. I would get sick to my stomach when I would have to stand before people to talk. My knees would be knocking together. So being a speaker was just a dream. I would see other women speaking and I would be mesmerized. I wanted to do it, but I just couldn’t. Well, one day I got sick and tired of being afraid to do the things I wanted to do in life. There were several things I had not done because I was afraid, I was concerned about what others would say and I thought I needed more education. So for many years, I knew I should be doing more, remember, I knew I was meant to do more. But I didn’t until I got sick and tired of being sick and tired. I decided that it was time to act. It was time to step out of my comfort zone. It was time to stop being concerned about what others thought or said. It was time to go with the level of education I had and it was time to follow my dreams. I wrote my first book, “I’m Doing It”, I formed my non-profit “She’s All That!” and I accepted my first speaking engagement at a women’s conference at South Suburban College. When you get sick and tired of being sick and tired and when you make up your mind to follow your dreams, things change. Your world opens up. I am a big believer in going after your dreams. It seemed like when I said yes to me, things started happening. And that’s how I got to where I am today. I said yes to me. I stopped worrying about what I didn’t have and what I couldn’t do and I concentrated on what I could do. I have not looked back. Well, maybe just to see how far I’ve grown and to give thanks for where I am. My message to you is that it is time to stop playing small. It is your time to do the things that you have always wanted to do. Don’t sit around wondering what if. Step out and start doing it. Live your life on your terms. It's Your Time! Conchetta "CJ" Jones The Confidence Coach Connect With Me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/confidentwoman1 Follow Me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/@confidencekoach Visit our website: www.conchettajones.com
Make It Happen By K. Moneak
Hey there! Thanks for stopping by to hang out with me for a few moments. I’m K. Moneak aka the “Possibility Powerhouse”. I’m new to the LASUMXP community and feeling excited about being here. A special thanks to Prophet Strong for the feature spot. What an amazing opportunity this is for me. Just to share a little bit about myself, I am the founder of Epossibilities Coaching & Consulting, I am a third generation Pastor, that also pastors Word of Life Church Chicago along with my husband Pastor Chris Clarke. I used to get in trouble all the time when I was little for talking too much. I talked in church, in school I talked at home, in the car, and anywhere else people would listen to me. I used to always say, “when I grow up, people will pay to hear me speak!” And, sure enough in addition to my day job in the field of public service for the last 15 years, I am also a Public Speaker, a Transformation Coach, and #1 International Best Selling Author of the book - "Make It Happen!". My new title - "Make it Happen!" hit number one in three US categories, in France, and in Canada on the same day that it launched. This was an exciting time for me because I love writing and had four titles unpublished. But, I knew that this life-shifting short read had to launch at the top of 2018. My life's work in both the marketplace and in ministry is centered around helping people. I am passionate about helping individuals find their personal possibility and living fully. I have discovered over the years that once people find out what’s possible, they leap into action. So, I figured that if I do my part to be transparent and honest about my process, my pitfalls, and my personal hang-ups someone would benefit from it. I believe if you are reading this article it’s because you are in a place of transition and shifting. I have a provoking grace on my life in this season. One that shakes the core of those that I encounter and ignites a fire to “leap and not look back.” See back in December of 2017 just three short months ago, I wanted to lay down to sleep and not wake up. Yes, literally. I wasn’t suicidal, but I was exhausted with routine, tired of trying to use duct tape remedies in my life and feeling hopeless. Have you ever just got tired of waiting for a change in your life? You have plenty to be grateful for, surrounded by people that love you, and all your needs met, somehow you still felt empty and isolated? Well, that’s where I was, and I desperately needed a change. Let me tell you something, one of my favorite scriptures is found in Psalms 102:19- 20. One translation put’s it this way: the Lord looked down from His heavenly sanctuary to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to death. Thank God for the Word, thank God for His ear to hear us and his plan for our lives. You are full of purpose and potential. There is a real plan for my life and yours. So, I have to say, Sis, quitting is not an option for us. I know that you are smiling and getting things done, but you feel like you are running on fumes. I know that you have been taking care of everyone else, but need some encouraging of your own. So, I’m using my page in the book to remind you that “you are more than enough”, “you’ve got the goods” and “your best days are ahead of you.” Shake yourself and tap into the reserve on the inside! The world is waiting to be introduced to you, and what you have to offer. I believe in you and I look forward to hearing about what you will make happen this year. Deep down inside you know it’s time to have more, do more, and be more. We all have low points and down times. The best part though is that we pick ourselves up, dust off, and keep it moving. It’s time, your time to Make It Happen! My new book had to be written and published at the top of 2018 because the message is needed now! So many of us are where I found myself in December of 2017 - desperate to see a change in our lives and situations. Feeling stuck, inadequate, and thinking that we are waiting on God. When in fact God is waiting on us to decide what we are ready to "make happen." God has already given us authority and ability. We have just been walking in fear, procrastination, and low self-esteem. In my opinion, we find this more in ministry than the marketplace because we start fearing man more than God, and people's opinion over the Word of God. We have failed to truly understand that it's not enough to just believe God, but real faith is acting upon what we know to be true. Like the men trusted with the talents in Matthew chapter 25 (according to their ability), God will be back to settle
accounts with us all regarding what He has made us stewards over both naturally and spiritually. The big question is, what will we have to show? It has been a blast hanging out with you for a while. Before I go, I want to leave you with this: if you took a two hundred page book and pulled out the best 64 pages, my new book Make It Happen would be those juicy pages. Inside the book is a system outlining 6 simple mindset shifts - and one reminder. A formula meant to be used over and over again in different areas of your life and at different times. If you are contemplating any move in your life, I would advise you to get our copy today! Because between your prayer closet where God will download the details and this short read where I am rooting you on; the time to make it happen is now! You know that something has to give and there is a tug for more in your life. Stop second guessing yourself, and waiting for someone to give you permission. Where do you need to shift, your health, ministry, money, marriage, academics, etc.? Hear me from this page today - You've got this! You've got the goods! You are more than enough. In the words of my Pastor/Husband - "God does not have a Plan B!" You are the plan, and no one can do what God has called and purposed for you alone. Once you finish this article, get your copy and let's "Make It Happen!" Love Ya - K. Moneak Contact Info Email: epossibilitiescc@gmail.com Website: www.Kmoneak.com Social Media: Kmoneak - on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and coming soon to periscope
Nailz GlamHer By Shana Sanders
What in the nail health is going on ladies and gents? There are pieces of You that I am Double Dog Daring you to become more familiar with in 2018. In this article, I am going to speak with you all about just a few nail conditions that may be far beyond the expertise of you regular nail tech. At the first sign of something not looking quite right with your nails please seek out a licensed healthcare professional. Your nails can tell you and your Dr. a lot about your health. Ladies, we wear polish a lot and never really see our natural nails. That is until the polish is being taken off for the next manicure or full set of nails. But let us pay close attention because your nail professional may not always notice that there is a difference in the condition of your nails. Gents even though clear polish is what you apply to your nails, still pay close attention because the polish changes color over time and may still hide underlying secrets. A few things to look for, if your nailbeds become bluish to pale in color, even splitting or thickening of the nails sometimes these conditions could mean there is potentially something significantly wrong with your health. If your nail bed becomes bluish in color it could mean anemia, liver disease or even CHF (congested heart failure) or that your body is malnourished. These conditions can become severely serious if not treated properly. If nails become pale in color this could also mean heart problems or your body isn’t receiving enough oxygen that it needs. The splitting of your nails (which is more common in women) could be less significant and be caused by just old age or could be as severe as hypothyroidism, where your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones to work properly. Thickening of the nail could be from a traumatic event that happened to the nail, a fungal infection or even an inflammatory skin condition called psoriasis. If you notice some of these changes with your nails be sure to take pictures so you can properly describe what you have been noticing overtime with your nails to your healthcare professional. I know we all have at one time or another experienced that when you finally get to the doctor that you cannot explain nor do you have any evidence about what has even occurred with your health. It seems that everything is better since you are now sitting in their office for an appointment. In 2018 I want you to please take care of and pay proper attention to the pieces of you that no one else is willing to. So it’s very important to put you first!! Source: (WebMD and Advances in Skin & Wound Care: The Journal for Prevention and Healing) Smooches XOXO Shana Let’s Discuss some Nail Topics! Email me@: NailzGlamHer@gmail.com
Esther: A Woman of Grace, Warring with Wisdom... By Apostle Denise Chase We all know the story of Esther. How she was adopted by her cousin Mordecai. Placed among the young women to be prepared and chosen to be the New Queen. How she found favor with the King and was chosen to be Queen because of her exquisite beauty and delicate grace. We even know how she interceded and intervened on behalf of her people when Haman plotted to kill them by lying to the King to do so. But do we really know Esther’s strategy to Victory? That’s what I want to explore in this article. Esther is one of my “sheroes” of the Bible. I love reading and studying about her journey from adolescence to womanhood. How she was not afraid to speak up for what was right, risking her own life on behalf of others. Esther is a great example to us all of what God requires of us as His servants. But I especially like studying Esther’s strategic process of learning and knowing how to “War with wisdom”, while yet remaining a graceful lady. Esther was a bad girl (and I mean that in a VERY GOOD WAY). She would be what I classify as “A quiet storm”. Quiet storms start off and “seem” to be harmless, but when you least expect it the winds shift and suddenly one must run for cover. Esther, though classy and graceful, was a woman of great WISDOM. The things Mordecai instilled in her even before she became a part of the King’s harem, keeping her true identity a secret, along with constant prayer, and the intel she gained on the inside, became secret weapons for her to win the King’s favor. When we look at the story, because of Esther’s obedience to Mordecai’s direction to keep her nationality (identity) secret, she was able to open doors for others especially Mordecai. Listening, obeying and staying focused are the keys necessary for ensured triumph. Look at what the scripture says: 15
Esther was the daughter of Abigail, who was Mordecai’s uncle. (Mordecai had adopted his younger cousin Esther.) When it was Esther’s turn to go to the king, she accepted the advice of Hegai, the eunuch in charge of the harem. She asked for nothing except what he suggested, and she was admired by everyone who saw her. 16 Esther was taken to King Xerxes at the royal palace in early winter of the seventh year of his reign. 17 And the king loved Esther more than any of the other young women. He was so delighted with her that he set the royal crown on her head and declared her queen instead of Vashti. 18 To celebrate the occasion, he gave a great banquet in Esther’s honor for all his nobles and officials, declaring a public holiday for the provinces and giving generous gifts to everyone. 19 Even after all the young women had been transferred to the second harem and Mordecai had become a palace official, 20 Esther continued to keep her family background and nationality a secret. She was still following Mordecai’s directions, just as she did when she lived in his home. Esther 2:15-20 (NLT) Not only was Esther beautiful, but she was a great listener and paid attention to detail. Knowing that she could not just go before the King anytime she wanted, Esther had to use wisdom in order to make her plea on behalf of her people to the King. She was strategic in utilizing those around her to help her. In Esther’s day (just like today) women were not recognized, regarded or respected as anything but a pleasure toy for a man. However, with Esther, it was different. Esther used her beauty and grace as an offensive weapon against the plans of the enemy (Haman) to expose Esther and her people. Haman was well respected and a tough warrior, but there was something that Esther had that Haman didn’t and that was “the King’s heart”. You see, when you are placed in a “God-given” assignment (position), it doesn’t matter who likes, loves or agrees with you being the “chosen one”, God is always going to avenge and vindicate His children. What is important for us to learn from Esther, as women of beauty, class, grace, and intellect are that all of this means nothing if we don’t know how to use them to our advantage and the advantage of others. We need instruction and guidance in every area of our lives if we truly desire to live the abundant life promised to us. With wisdom, Esther sent word to her people to fast for 3 days, eating and drinking nothing, which was a
sign of humility and surrender of their natural strength, understanding, and power. They only had faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to see them through. Esther’s wise plan of execution turned the heart of the King and his court to see her when she was not called for, to thwart Haman’s plan and Haman was beheaded by the same gallow he had set up to kill Mordecai. The weapon formed but it did not prosper…instead, it was turned back on the accuser. Warring with wisdom instead of attitude and emotions will get us much further than we know. We face situations that are designed to test our character and integrity, but it is our response that reveals the Glory of God and manifests our victory. Let us follow Esther’s example of being a Woman of Grace, Warring with Wisdom. Classy and Gracefully submitted, Apostle Denise Chase a.k.a. “THE BREAKER” Empowering, Encouraging and Equipping women to break cycles of negativity and embrace the freedom to become the Designer’s Originals they were created to be. Founder and COO of Denise Chase Ministries & Know Your Worth Empowerment Group, LLC and DENISE CHASE MINISTRIES Contact Info: Denise@ladiesknowyourworth.org Social Media: www.facebook.com/mentordenise IG: queenbutterphly Twitter: ApostleNeica Website: http://www.thedenisechaseministries.com
Pieces Of Me Have you ever looked back over your life and said any of the following: “What in the world was I thinking?” “That was a good year!” “I wish I could go back there.” “Look at my hair and my clothes” The responses go on and on. I was an 80’s kid when tie-dye was still in with leg warmers and puffy hair with lots of hairspray. Nintendo was the game system to play. Who loved to play Mario Brothers? Raise your hand now… LOL! My brother and I loved that game. I remember listening to music with my dad. Anita Baker, Keith Sweat, Freddie Jackson, Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson are just to name a few. This article is going to take you back in time to the decades of my life and the foods my family loved during that time. Let’s travel back in time. In my 20’s I was just learning to live on my own with my daughter. I had her when I was only 15 so I had a lot of growing up to do and fast. After I completed my first two years in college, she came to live with me and I got our first apartment in Oxford, MS. Her favorite food was chicken nuggets from Wendy’s. I wasn’t the best cook then so many of our dinners were spent going through a drive-thru. Learn from my mistakes. Don’t raise your children up on fast food. It’s not healthy for them or you. I understand that you may have to do it a couple of times a week but I want to encourage you to be intentionally about cooking healthy meals for your family. Your health will thank you for it later! I also learned that I enjoyed baking in my 20’s. Growing up in the kitchen with both of grandmothers helped to foster this gift into what it is today. This was also a decade of me doing whatever I felt like I needed to do take care of my daughter. I didn’t always make the best decisions but she never had to want for anything. This was also a season that I really didn’t know who I was or what I wanted to do with my life. Upon graduating from Ole Miss, I wasn’t ready to go into the workforce. I decided to go straight to Culinary School and here we are today. In my current thirties is when I truly accepted my purpose in life and now I’m all in. I find myself singing, “Nothing can stop me. I’m all the way up!” The latter part of this decade is where I have made the declaration, “I Believe In Me!” No longer am I shying away from my Kingdom assignment or making excuses as to why it can’t get done. No more allowing the opinions of others to become my reality. I have chosen to be a Greater Working Woman. No matter where you are in life right now, it’s never too late to get started on your purpose today. Don’t look at your life and regret that you should have done something. Just get up and do it now. The world is waiting for you to show up. How long will you keep them waiting? Bon Appetite, Chef Chantea
- And Now For The Recipes -
Chicken Nuggets Ingredients
2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Cut Into Small Pieces 1 cup All-purpose Flour 1 Tablespoon Seasoned Salt (such As Lawry's) Salt And Black Pepper To Taste 2 whole Eggs 2 Tablespoons Water 2 cups Seasoned Breadcrumbs Vegetable Oil, For Frying Ketchup And Mustard, For Serving
Directions
First, make the breading assembly line: In one bowl, stir together the flour, seasoned salt, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and water. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs. Bread a few pieces of chicken at a time by dredging them with flour, then quickly dunk them in the egg mixture, then roll them in the breadcrumbs until they're coated. Shake off the excess and place them on a plate or pan as you bread the rest. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat (place the skillet on the backburner!), heat 1 1/2 to 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-low to medium heat. (You want it to be hot enough to sizzle gently when you add the chicken, but not so hot that it browns too quickly.) Carefully drop in 8 to 10 pieces of chicken and use metal tongs to spread them out to give them room. Let them fry on the first side for a minute or so, then carefully turn them over to brown on the other side. The chicken should cook until the breadcrumbs are deep golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes total; if the chicken pieces are small, this should be enough time for the chicken to cook through. Remove the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and repeat with the rest of the chicken until it's all fried. Serve warm with ketchup and/or mustard! Source: http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/homemade-chicken-nuggets/
Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Ingredients
1 whole Pizza Dough (for A 10-inch Crust) 3 ounces, weight Ground Beef 1/8 Onion, Finely Diced Salt And Pepper, to taste 3 slices Bacon 2 Tablespoons Butter Or Bacon Grease 1/4 teaspoon Ketchup, Plus Extra For Drizzling 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese 1/2 cup Sliced Kosher Dill Pickles Mustard, As Needed
Instructions
Cook the ground beef with onion in a skillet over medium-low heat until no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the bacon until it is a little less done than you normally like it. Preheat your oven to 450ºF (230ºC). Place a pizza stone (or heavy, flat stainless steel cookie sheet) in the oven to preheat. Roll the dough out on a sheet of parchment paper to a 10-inch circle. Spread the butter all over the dough, right out to the edge. Spread the ketchup over the dough for the sauce. Sprinkle with the cheese, ground beef, bacon, and pickles. Drizzle with mustard and ketchup. Bake in a preheated oven on a preheated stone or cookie sheet for about 8--10 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is deep golden brown all the way across and the cheese is melted. Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Source: http://thepioneerwoman.com/food-and-friends/bacon-cheeseburger-pizza/
Tie Dye Cupcakes Ingredients
1 box Betty Crocker™ Super Moist™ white cake mix Betty Crocker™ gel food colors or paste food colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple) 2 containers (1 lb. each) Betty Crocker™ Rich & Creamy white frosting
Directions
1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Place white paper baking cup in each of 24 regularsized muffin cups. 2. Make cake batter as directed on box for cupcakes, using water, oil, and eggs. Divide batter evenly among 6 medium bowls. Add a different food color to each bowl to make red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. Place 1 level teaspoon of each color batter into each muffin cup, layering colors in order of rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. Do not stir! Each cup will be about half full. 3. Bake 17 to 23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Remove cupcakes from pans; place on cooling racks. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. 4. Meanwhile, divide frosting evenly among 3 medium bowls. Tint 1 red, 1 yellow and 1 blue with food colors. Refrigerate about 30 minutes. 5. In large (16-inch) disposable decorating bag fitted with # 6-star tip, place spoonful's of each color of frosting side by side, alternating colors and working up from the tip of the bag. Do not mix colors together. Starting at 12 o’clock on the outer edge of each cupcake and using constant pressure on the bag, pipe frosting clockwise for 3 rotations, working toward the center and ending in small peak. Store loosely covered. Source: https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/tie-dye-cupcakes/aa9dd3be-c90c-4ce4-bde6-3aaa3bcf655b
Fitabulously Me By Chastity
Hey Hey Hey! How is the New Year treating you? Let me tell you right quick how God has been showing out in my health. From a scientific standpoint, I received a “misdiagnosis”. However they need to put it, there is NO CANCER, I AM CANCER FREE and that IS GOD! We have to be mindful especially in this day and age of the “foods” we are putting in our bodies! We have no idea half of the things they are putting in the foods we just LOVE! Trust me it is NOT worth your life. Clean eating, proper portions, WATER are life-saving changes. It’s time to get real about our health, start right now as you’re reading. Throw that junk away and grab a piece of fruit, a yogurt, a bottle of water, or some nuts! ALWAYS eat breakfast, whether you’re having a protein shake or oatmeal and fruit, EAT! Starting with breakfast literally gives you life and helps you not overeat throughout the rest of the day. We want God to be Great in our lives but not because of the situation we have put ourselves in. Do your part so He can manifest Himself in others areas we are seeking so diligently for Him to show up and show out! And a lot of our health issues can be avoided if we just listen to the pieces of our bodies that alert us. When you’re full stop eating, when you’re sleepy REST; and learn the swap out game. We can add some healthy years to our lives. For instance change out a white potato for a sweet baked potato, taco shells for the romaine lettuce leaves and ground turkey! Sugar addicts swap out for Guava or raw sugar. Healing and growing in (working on) pieces of you vs your whole life at once is more mentally stable and adds less pressure. Making things a lot more attainable. Work on the most important areas first, smash those goals and begin to work on two new areas. Maybe health and career or home and marriage (relationships). Health is Wealth! Keep Pushing Forward and remember anything is achievable! Love always, Chastity goherbalife.com/tink3
Women who work for themselves do NOT have all the time in the world. You think we do because we either work from home or have an office where we pretty much compose our own hours. It's just not that simple! We have to be CEO, COO, the President, Vice President Executive Assistant, and Whatever this plane needs to stay in flight! This doesn't mean we haven't given God our dreams, we put the work in and we lay it all on the line! Sleep, food, leisure, and material wants are put on hold! We still want them, but we also want to be accomplished in life. When our husbands are sleeping, we slip out of bed and put a little more housework, homework, and any other work that got away from us during the day, because we are low-key OCD! We don’t build cabins and call it legacy, we build palaces! We build with virtuosity and class! We do this while we get married, have babies, single parenting, bury our loved ones, fellowship at church, love our neighbor and do the best we can to get a few minutes in for ourselves! Some people don’t know you’ve given and still giving your best but you do it no matter who’s watching! Why? Because you understand that God rewards the seeds you sow into your own life. I'm dedicating this to all of my sisters, girlfriends, Baby Booming, Gen X, Millennium women, and Gen Z Ladies! Best friends, mothers, aunties, and GiGi’s (grandmother). I salute you!!! Make history!!!
Apostle Crystal Willingham
Dear Mini Me... By Shelly Winters
I'd say:
Looking back over my life, I often wished I could go back in time to a younger me and fill me with the wisdom I possess today. Oh, the things I would tell her. The weight that I would love to see taken from her shoulders. So I can only imagine if I had the opportunity to talk to 30 year- old me,
Hi, ladybug. I'd ask how you are but I already know. You are riddled with fear and angst on so many levels. You are so afraid of being alone, that you are aching for companionship. Hint, when you go to the party and meet the guy that works for the radio station, RUN. He's verbally and emotionally abusive and will take you down a corridor you didn't know existed. All because you want to love and have a family of your own. Let those family members who abuse you, the technical name is gas lighting, let those jokas go. As soon as you do, your whole world will change for the better. They won't change, so you have to do it. Your life, joy, and sanity depend on it. Also, stop worrying about finding a husband and having a baby. As of today, 13 years later it still hasn't happened. So instead of focusing on WHO and WHEN focus on YOU NOW. It isn't selfish, in fact, it is the kindest thing you can do for yourself AND you don't owe anyone an apology for it. With that notion, I'd tell her to love herself fully, lips, hips, toes and all. You are the only you that you have. Honor and love the vessel you’ve been given. Drink the water, get the rest, eat what's good for you. Your shell may not be perfect for some, but it was perfectly designed for you. If all else fails, follow this mantra, "if you cant hide it, decorate it." I'd also tell her to LIVE don't just exist. After so long, days just start rolling together. If all you do is go to work, come home and go to church, nothing seems different. There comes a time you can’t tell the differences between Christmas, Easter and Mother's Day, except the weather may be a bit different. Take the time to own and embrace the day. Tomorrow isn't guaranteed and it is also disrespectful to the today in your hands. Granted, not every day will be a world changing day, but you can be present in the day and respect the time God has granted you. If it is a simple as saying, "Thank you for today" or trying a new cuisine, do something to honor the moment in time that will never come again. I would tell her to travel. There is a whole great big world out there with vistas and cuisines that will send you into sensory overload and help shape a different perspective of yourself, humanity and the world...experience it. Stop throwing away your time at work just because you don't feel like going, and save it to have an adventure of your life. When you look at it in that way, it seems like an easy trade-off, right? Literally wasting time goes back to merely existing and that isn't good enough. Although not everyone is destined to be Oprah, there is still greatness in you and for you. Which brings me to another point. Stop comparing yourself to someone else and wishing you had what they have. You are not them and they are not you. You don’t know what they go through at the end of the day when the door is closed to obtain and maintain. All you are seeing is a glimpse in time and not the totality of their life. They can be a source of inspiration for something different but don't wish to be them. Strive to be a better you. Yeah, I noticed I haven't talked about men much during this talk. Well, it’s because a real man loves a woman that appreciates herself and the space she fills in this world. Men can smell desperation and will either flea or exploit what they find. So as soon as you can truly embrace all that you are and what you were created to do, watch what happens. I remember one day In worship the song was, “Chasing After You”, and I heard the Spirit say "When you really start chasing after Me and your purpose, watch and see what and who starts chasing you." God ain't ever lied! And since I know no one has ever told you... you are kind... you are funny... you are strong... you are smart... you are valuable. Don't allow the absence of those comments in your life to make you think they aren't true. I know what's in you because time and experience brought it all out. We are wonderful and glorious and enough... in fact you can be a bit too much at times, but its okay. LIVE, that is how HE made you. LOVE, that is what you were created to do. Okay, I got to go back to living our life in 2018, I love you more than you could ever realize and I will always honor and protect you. We are going to be better than okay. Oh, and hydrate, exfoliate and lubricate your skin. Black don't crack but it will crease if you don’t take care of it.
Never Ever Give Up! Never Quit! Be a *Esther*, bold and courageous enough to stand for the truth, to voice your opinion and fight for the good of others, even when it means to sacrifice yourself. If God has put you in a position, it is for a purpose. Never be afraid to heed to that inner voice. Be a *Ruth*, loyal in all your relationships, walk the extra mile and don’t quit when things get tough. Someday, you’ll see why it was all worth the effort. Be a *Lydia*, let your homes be open, let your hands be generous, let your hearts be big enough to help anyone in need. Joy is greatest when shared. Be a *Hannah*, never cease to pray. It will never be in vain. Be a *Mary*, humble and submissive. You don’t have to be great for God to use you, you just need to obey. Be a *Dorcas*, use your talents, however small it may seem to bring a smile on someone’s face. You’ll never know how much it can mean to someone. Be a *Abigail*, remember how each decision can turn your life around for good or bad. Be wise. Be a *Elizabeth*, never doubt what God can do. Miracles do happen. Be a *Mary Magdalene*, never let your mistakes and judgments of other people stop you from experiencing true joy in Jesus. Be a *Rebekah*, never forget that true beauty lies within. Draw your man closer to God through your character. Lastly be *Sarah* age doesn't matter, Trust & believe. All is possible with God! ~ Author Unknown
The Healing Process: Release By M. Charleston
I am Physical release is essential to the healing process. Any outward expression of an internal problem will suffice. Sometimes I just want to scream. Open my mouth, Take a deep breath And push out everything that is building up inside. The stress of “adulting”. Pretending that I have it all together. That I didn't just spend $50 at Walmart for things I don’t need. The stress of staying afloat in a sea of debt accumulated in college. The stress of teaching and guiding children when my lighthouse is covered by fog and tumultuous waves. I want to scream for all of the children who have been abused. All of the children who want to die without scratching the surface of living. I want to scream until my vocal cords pop. Until there is no more breath in my body. Until I am wading in a sea of tears. I want to scream. To scream for everyone that is hurting. Everyone that is struggling to inhale and exhale With the weight of the world hibernating on their chest. I want to scream And wail And cry. I want to lay on my back and weep. I want to cleanse my body, my mind and my soul of this weight.
Of wanting to do good with evil present each day. Of wanting to be my best self without feeling inadequate, Overwhelmed, And exhausted. I want to release it all. To untie the chain tethered to my neck Wrapped around the Pandora’s Box that is my life Pulling me to the bottom of the ocean. So I scream. I open my mouth, Tilt my head back, And push out my pain. My tears, My stress. I acknowledge all of me. Every little bit. Everything that keeps me up at night, worrying. Everything that inhibits my ability to breathe And I let it go. I get it out. And I continue to heal.
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Bent But Not Broken Shaken But Not Shattered Discouraged But Not Defeated Pieces of Me...