FOURTH anniversary
FEBRUARY 2016 - FAEBRUARY 2020
Do you know what today is?
IT’S OUR ANNIVERSARY, MADE FOR CELEBRATING!
And we’ve only made plans to place in your hands this issue! We could not be more excited to share our fourth year publication anniversary for Love, Marriage & Partnershipthe Review! Feel the love and join the celebration with our dynamic featured couple, a quest for selflove and so much more.
WHY DO WE DO THIS PUBLICATION FOR FREE - to shine a light on husbands and wives positively working in partnership - to edify others in business, community, ministry etc - to provide readers with real-life examples & tools to apply in their own lives
IN HONOR OF
21 ISSUES IN 4 YEARS
SOW A SEED INTO LMP | THE REVIEW MAGAZINE TODAY
$MrMrsGratitude
KOBE BRYANT AUG 23, 1978 - JAN 26, 2020
KOBE BRYANT
AUG 23, 1978 - JAN 26, 2020
GIANNA MARIA-ONORE BRYANT MAY 01, 2006 -JAN 26, 2020
LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW is a monthly publication sponsored by MR & MRS KING that focuses on married couples that are in partnership with each other through service and/or business to their communities and abroad. The goal of the LMP | THE REVIEW is to inspire readers to look at the essence of partnership in marriage as shared by exemplary couples, ultimately moving readers to actively define, develop, and devote to their purpose as a couple.
It’s February! We encourage you to look at where you are and where you decided to be at the beginning of the year, and truly celebrate the goals that you set, take responsibility to stay on track, and simply be grateful for it all. As we honor the excellence in the achievements in Black culture and share love across many platforms, we charge you to be a history maker and embrace the journey of self-love. IN THIS ISSUE OF LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP THE REVIEW, be inspired to try a few new things, get organized, or take your love experience to a new level of being, giving and having. COUPLES IN PARTNERSHIP This feature is the heart of the publication, so become acquainted with phenomenal couples from all over that are building businesses and serving their communities through a loving partnership. DATE NIGHT IDEAS Do more than flirt with the idea of Date Nights, make a commitment. These sweet notions will spark dedication for that much desired QT whether you’re single, just having fun, or in a committed relationship. ON THE LOOKOUT Consider yourself well informed of this set of business owners and public figures that are impacting their respective fields with grace, style and so much more.
Where do your loved ones start if something limb or life-threatening happens to you? Would they know how to access your money or estate information? How do you prepare to express your last thoughts and wishes to your next of kin or beneficiaries? Where will they find your important “hidden” documents, such as: your life insurance policy, banking information and/or wlll? If you can not concretely answer these questions, then this Journal Is a must-have for you! Colnz: The Journal will walk you through the steps to ensure your loved ones have the necessary information about your personal affairs. Brandee J. Harrington is an author, wife, mother, and real estate broker who wrote this journal with one person in mind, her mom. She wanted to have the necessary information for her mother’s financial affairs written in one place. Her story inspired her to bring into light the conversation she simply wasn’t ready for. She discovered that her personal journey lead her to realize that her story is like others-It isn’t discussed. She decided to change the narrative and start a movement to “Write it down...make it plain” and have a Change the PerspectiveLeave a legacy mindset. Planning for your family’s future helps not only your family properly manage your resources but helps them know where to start. For more information, visit mycoinzjournal.com
Celebrating
twentyTWENTY
EXPRESSING THOUGHTS
THROUGH WRITTEN
WORD!
W W W . H E L L O B L A C K M A N . C O M
Valentine’s Day WE LOVE YOU!
Celebrating Love twentyTWENTY
“TRANSFORMATION STARTS WITH YOU...”
RhondaL. THOMPSON
RhondaL. THOMPSON RHONDA L. THOMPSON is 53 years old, has five children and ten grandchildren. She holds a Dual Master’s Degree in Advanced Psychology and Crisis Intervention as well as three separate Bachelor’s Degrees all in Psychology with cognates of Addiction & Recovery, Crisis Intervention & Trauma and Christian Counseling all from Liberty University. She also holds an associate degree in Computer Information with a Specialization in Computer Programming. Rhonda is a graduate of The Landmark Forum where she became an Introduction Leader.
Rhonda is a Georgia State Certified Family Violence Intervention Facilitator, and a Certified Moral Reconation Facilitator from the Correctional Counseling Incorporation. Rhonda is a Certified Anger Management Specialist, Certified Grief Specialist, Certified E-Therapist, Certified Life Coach. She owns and operates Total Breakthrough Center where she provides court appointed classes and group therapy to those who are released from prison and jail and mandated to take classes for Family Violence, Anger Management, Parenting and Shoplifting Prevention. Total Breakthrough Center also has an Empowerment side where she holds trainings, workshops, conferences and individual coaching and counseling helping people to get to the root of the issued, uncover the trauma, release that which no longer serves them and helps place them on a new path of positivity by helping them see their worth and value and transforming their lives. Rhonda is also a Certified Speaker, Coach, & Trainer on the John Maxwell Team. Rhonda is an on-air radio personality and operates the Rhonda’s Room Radio Show on Power 108.9 which airs LIVE and streams on Facebook and YouTube every Wednesday from 8-9 PM EST.
Rhonda has written and published a book that is about her own life which is in the process of a revision and rerelease currently. Rhonda just joined Total Life Changes on January 31, 2020 and is rapidly expanding her team and growing within the TLC Family. Rhonda ‘s past comes from a plethora of abuse: physical, sexual, verbal and psychological. She at one time worked in massage parlors and as a stripper until having an encounter with a customer who told her she did not belong there and from that day she left that lifestyle. Rhonda has battled low self-esteem and low self-worth for the majority of her life until she finally had the courage to “do the work” and come face-to-face with her past and released it. Her book is titled “Victory Over Defeat Everytime:Everyone is Worth Keeping” because for so long she felt like she was not worth keeping. She now has a thriving Counseling / coaching business and imparts into people that they are deserving of love, respect and happiness. Rhonda plans to begin her PhD this year in Traumatology and Positive Psychology because she knows everything comes back to a trauma and her specialty is trauma and how to overcome it and thrive while walking in your true purpose. She is known as RhondaTinATL and has a large following. Rhonda acted for 6 years and appeared in many stage plays, television shows like Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, Kenny Leon’s Movie Steel Magnolias, and she writes whenever she gets the opportunity.
WWW.TOTALBREAKTHROUGHCENTER.COM w w w. j oh n m a x we l l g roup. c om / r h on d at h omp s on
COMING soon
M A G A Z I N E
COUPLES
AWARD M A G A Z I N E
BUSINESS
AWARD M A G A Z I N E
WHO’S WHO
AWARD and the winner is
“She’s been lost; She’s been found; She’s been...”
FORGIVEN by
Ayannah
www.ayannahwilliamsministries.com
date nightIDEAS BY: MR & MRS KING
Dismiss every misconception that you have about Dating, be open-minded, and expect to have fun! Who says that Dating has to be anything other than what you want it to be? No one- it’s up to you how creative you want your predetermined moment of eminence to be! It is also important to note that Dating is for anyone: married, engaged, and yes, SINGLE.
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
RECREATE THE FIRST DATE YOU EVER HAD TOGETHER: If you went to a movie, rent the same movie. If you went out for dinner, go back to the same restaurant or make the dish that you ate at home. RENT YOU OR YOUR DATE’S “DREAM CAR.”: Take your date and your dream car you’ve rented on a weekend adventure, even if it’s just driving and exploring. HAVE A FIVE COURSE DINNER AT DIFFERENT PLACES: Instead of going to one restaurant, pick a bunch of different restaurants to enjoy various courses of your dinner date. PLAY TOURIST: Decide to play tourist for the day in your hometown. Going everywhere from the museum, to the major landmark, to the most famous restaurant in town.
FEATURED FEATURED FEATURED
Joseph & Brandee
HARRINGTON have been for 5 1/2 years. They have two daughters Jaelynn & Jaycee. Joseph grew up in Jackson, MS while Brandee grew up in Chicago, IL. They both attended and graduated from Thee Jackson State University. Although they did not attend at the same time they both affectionally love their Alma Mater. Joseph graduated from Jackson State University with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Biology. He is the Owner/Operator of Legendary Lawn & Landscape. Brandee graduated from Jackson State University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. She also has received her Master’s degree from Belhaven University with a concentration in Management. She is the Broker/Owner of J. Daniel Realty and owner of J. Daniel Property Management Group. Additionally she is a newly published author of My COINZ Journal.
COUPLE COUPLE COUPLE
the
REVIEW
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE TO YOU? JOSEPH: The meaning of marriage to me is a covenant that God ordained to help establish God in the family and in community. BRANDEE: The meaning of marriage is that God created marriage to help one not be alone. It was designed so that one could have a help meet and not be alone. WHAT DOES “BECOMING ONE” MEAN TO YOU AND WHAT DO YOU DO TO WORK TOWARDS IT? Becoming one to us means we are both are individuals first; however in order to “become one” our differences are blended in order to compliment and fulfill the greater purpose. WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING THAT YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER? The most rewarding thing we have done is brought two beautiful daughters into this world. They have taught us so much as well as challenged us in many ways. HOW DO YOU GROW YOURSELVES WITHIN THE RELATIONSHIP? HOW DO YOU GROW THE RELATIONSHIP? JOSEPH: I grow within the marriage by trying to improve my love language for Brandee. I grow the relationship by continuing to pour into her and her efforts and desires. BRANDEE: I group within the marriage by realizing that I have to ensure that he knows just how much I appreciate him through his love language. Additionally I continue to grow the relationship by tuning into him and supporting his goals. HOW DO YOU FOCUS ON THE SUBJECTIVE AND RELATIVE STUFF AROUND YOU AND FOCUS ON TRUTH? The truth for us is found in ensuring that we are keeping the other spouse happy. We talk about events and have honest conversations. After we discuss them then that settles the matter and we don’t let the subjective items come into play.
WHO DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU SEE YOUR SPOUSE? JOSEPH: When I see Brandee I see a God fearing beautiful woman that I only want the best for. I realize that she isn’t perfect but she’s perfect for me. BRANDEE: WOW.. When I see Joseph I see someone growing more and more in God. I see someone who loves God and loves his family. He supports us unconditionally. WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF HAVING A SHARED VISION? The benefits of a shared vision ensures that we both support the goals we collectively have set. We see how our vision that once was a dream on paper now has manifested outwardly. HOW DO YOU SOLVE PROBLEMS/BRING SOLUTIONS IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP? We solve problems by prayer. We realized that there are some issues that are bigger than us. Our only solution is to pray so that God’s strategy for this issue is revealed. We know that our flesh wants to over take us daily so we submit to him through prayer. We don’t get it right all the time but we realize that God is our truth and we trust in this wisdom. WHAT IS A QUOTE OR SCRIPTURE THAT YOU BOTH USE AS YOU FUNCTION IN PARTNERSHIP? Philippians 1:9-11 The Message (MSG) 9-11 So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover’s life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God. We aren’t perfect but we seek the one who is!
self LOVE
from the
DESK OF Mr & Mrs King LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
I FOUND THE LOVE OF MY LIFE It was me… I am that love... Have you ever found yourself looking for that moment where it felt like “you’re the perfect verse over a tight beat?” What voice, what feeling, what touch accompanied that moment? Between the romantic comedies that are bingewatch with a blanket and a snack worthy and all the life experiences that provide the framework in your subconscious mind, you probably have a textbook definition of love with multiple entries. With no clear definition of love, mismanaged expectations develop some rather complicated situations. Have you been there? Perhaps someone has said to you, “You need to love yourself before you try to love somebody else.” The inward conversation ensues… “I do love myself…Wait, I think I love me…Of course I do! But if I did, would I tolerate this? Would I allow myself to think that about me? If I love me, why am I still dealing with forgiving myself? Can I love myself but not believe in myself? How is it that I can love others, but I don’t know how to truly love myself? What is love anyway?” Love is a mature decision to have and show compassion and care regardless of the other person’s actions or feelings towards you. This understanding guides you into seeing that love is more than just a feeling. It is the most powerful emotion, greater than hope and faith. There is no greater evidence of this than God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. So how then do you have self-love? Especially when you may have never been taught what it is, and all the many influences around you suggest otherwise?
Decide to choose Him, because God is love. By choosing Him, you allow Him to come into your heart, the deep layers of your mind, and remove anything that is not of Him. Only God can show you why you think, feel or act the way that you do. He’ll whisper it to you while you are driving, ironing clothes or in the shower. God also gives you glimpses of who you really are- not the person you feel like at some given moment or who you see yourself as in comparison to someone else, but His truth about you. Becoming that truth is the journey of self-love. It is a process of decisionmaking that puts a halt to the drifting brought on by life circumstances, creating the conditions that you want. Self-love requires hope and faith – hope to believe that God’s truth about you is real and faith to persistently pursue it. On the surface, self-love may look like taking a long drive, dating yourself, doing your favorite hobby, tackling your finances responsibly, cleaning your home, removing yourself from non-serving relationships, humbling yourself to learn from someone else, etc. These things in themselves do not define self-love, but they provide a space for you to think for yourself and make decisions that benefit you, decisions that help you become your truth, the love of your life – you.
MartinWHITE
AWARD WINNING
BUSINESS & FINANCIAL COACH Martin White owns a promotions and consulting company called Streets On Swoll Promo & Consulting. He formally worked at Atlantic Records and Def Jam Records. Currently, a MS & Texas Licensed Financial Coach that educates people on becoming better financially in regards to wealth building, investing, and insurances. F O L L O W
M A R T I N
W H I T E
O F
F A C E B O O K
ANDREA BLACKLEY is the owner and designer of the innovative clothing brand, AB Originals. Since she was 8 years old, she’s always had a keen eye, and love for style and fashion. Being raised by a fashionable single mother, one of her favorite moments of her childhood, is when her mom would go “Spring Shopping” for new clothes. It would always be a big event because Andrea would be spontaneously surprised after coming home from school, and finding a bed full of clothes laid out for her. “Christmas in Spring”, as she called it, was always one of her favorite times of the year. As an only child, this was definitely one of the benefits of not having any siblings. But it was also the birth of her infatuation with fashion.
HOW HAS GOD BEEN A HUGE PART OF YOUR BUSINESS? My business is God. It’s a reflection of Him. When he chooses us to house a gift, it’s such an honor! And when we put that gift to work and we create, as He did, I believe that He is pleased. God is the divine orchestrator of my business. He allows me to grow through stumbles and victories. My vision comes from the gifts that God has given me, and the Holy Spirit coaches me. God keeps me going, when I want to stop. He always uses someone and/or something to confirm the route being traveled, when it gets hard. He will use a client’s adoration to add fuel to my fire. I wouldn’t be here if He wasn’t here. Period. WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST REWARDING MOMENT IN YOUR BUSINESS? The responses from my clients, when they go out and get compliments. When I see women and men CONFIDENTLY wearing their ABO pieces, I’m humbled. Just recently, a client had on an ABO SpringSituation top and she was approached by another client of mine, not knowing each other asking the one wearing the top, “Is that an ABO?” The story had me blushing and in awe. So many moments, too hard to choose just one. WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR IN BUSINESS? I’m looking forward to having my brand with a strong foundation. Structure. Exposure, Experience, Exclusivity...that’s what I’m focused on. Expansion will show up organically...God willing.
W W W . S H O P S I T U A T E D . C O M
Short- and Long-Term Intentions:
THE FRUIT OR THE SEED BY: MR & MRS KING
The people that share your life will do so with either short- or longterm intention. It is important to be able to discern the difference between the two so that you can maintain a peace of mind and communication and relationships can operate with clarity. There is a proverb that says, “You know a tree by its fruit.” This is absolute truth! For that reason, most people only focus on the fruit…you can classify it, and identify whether you like it, need it or not. In a practical sense, if you’re a plum tree, you’ll have certain people coming to you for your fruit based on their personal preference or need at that time. They may or may not come for your fruit for several reasons- someone said that it was good, bad, or whatever. There are also seasons where you’re on and when you’re not, and people can feel that too. When you are producing the fruit that this person wants and or needs at the given time, understand this to be shortterm intent. He or she will give to you or for you to receive the fruit that you bear. In contrast, there is the person who recognizes you as a seed that has been gifted to them. A person that cherishes the seed is going to prepare the soil, ensuring the seed is in the right environment for it to take root. This person is going to water the seed and consistently do the things necessary for its continued growth, even pruning.
CONSIDER THIS:
YOU ARE A TREE. THERE ARE TWO BASIC PARTS TO YOU! YOUR SEED AND YOUR FRUIT.
Follow the relationship of a seed and bosom. It is a nurturing relationship where the nurturer cares for the growth and development of the seed but also adheres to the responsibility of being well themselves. As the nurturer, he/ she understands that if toxins (whether physical, mental, emotional or spiritual) are present, they can be transferred while nursing. It is a powerful thing to have someone in your life that understands all of that and is committed to see you grow and produce fruit in season and out. EVALUATE THE PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE. Which ones are present with shortterm intentions? In most cases, these individuals interact with you through sacrifice of their time and other resources and expect something directly from you – your fruit. Which ones are present with long-term intentions? These individuals are focused on you as a seed and have a desire to sow into your life. Anything that they do is an investment of which the return will reach far beyond you or them – multiple seeds and much fruit.
the seven habits of STATE THE GOAL Write a clearly defined goal of what you desire with a specific date.
IDENTIFIY PEOPLE NEEDED These are people that have achieved what you are trying to accomplish, believe in your success and are willing to assist you. Note: you do not have to know these people before you start. Just know that they will be presented to you when it’s time. DEVELOP A PLAN See yourself as if you’ve already achieved your goal. Write a plan of action that you feel will help you reach your goal. Note: Expect that a better plan will present itself to you and be willing to change. IDENTIFY THE OBSTACLES Be honest with yourself and list six things (including your own limiting habits) that will try to stop you from reaching your goal. Note: Write these obstacles on a sheet of paper and burn it. LIST THE SKILLS NEEDED Consider the skills that you are not willing or able to outsource in order to achieve your goal. LIST THE REWARD(S) Consider how you will celebrate the achievement of your goal and receive that joy with grace.
GOAL SETTING
GOAL SETTING
the seven habits of
IDENTIFY BENCHMARKS Consider the benchmarks as checkpoints that you will reach along the way. Celebrate them as self-confidence builders towards your goal.
selfLOVE THE INSTINCT BY WHICH ONE’S ACTIONS ARE DIRECTED TO THE PROMOTION OF ONE’S OWN WELFARE OR WELL-BEING, ESPECIALLY AN EXCESSIVE REGARD FOR ONE’S OWN ADVANTAGE.
CarlottaTAYLOR W W W . C A R L O T T A T A Y L O R . C O M
ashlee
MOSS
young black
QUEEN
There’s a documentary on Netflix right now called “She Did That” showcasing the lives of black female entrepreneurs. They explain how they got started, the obstacles they faced and how they came up on top. I was so inspired to see successful black women going after their dreams. The thing I admire most is we push through no matter what. I also think we forget to take care of ourselves during the process of becoming successful. How many of you practice self care? I know everybody has their own understanding of what self care means and looks like. I’m going to share 3 ways we as young black women should practice self care. YOU SHOULD TELL YOURSELF THE THINGS YOU DESPERATELY WANT TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE ELSE. When you wake up start by giving thanks to God and speaking positive affirmations. We all love to hear “your beautiful” and “I’m so proud of you” from other people. How often do we say it to ourselves? Speaking these things will keep us motivated and empowered. NEVER STOP SPOILING YOURSELF. Weather it be getting your nails done, shopping, or indulging in your favorite food. Pick something that brings you peace and don’t feel guilty. You deserve it Queen! CREATE HEALTHY BOUNDARIES. If someone or something is becoming toxic you have to remove yourself. Who you choose to spend your time with should challenge you and bring out the best in you. On your road to success the company you keep is most important. I want to give a standing ovation to all my beautiful black Queens who are paving the way and creating success. We see you! Keep shining! Keep spreading love!
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
sharetha
NICOLE
PERSPECTIVE
When is the last time you took a minute to nurture yourself? Do you feel you have to be around a group of friends or in a relationship? Do you dedicate so much of your time to helping others with their problems and needs that you’re drained all the time? New Flash! It’s time for a reality check. Take a step back and get to know – YOU. Your self-worth is the core to your identity. The nurturing of your beliefs, aspirations, and dreams should start at home base. If you never take the time to tap into who are you are, you will never add an important ingredient to your foundation – thus it can affect you later in life. Understanding yourself allows you to become more observant before hanging with the wrong crowd. It allows you to have a clear picture of what you desire and deserve when dating or being in a relationship. It allows you to make better life choices considering your decisions may not just affect you. More importantly, it teaches you how to adapt without the feeling you have to be like other people. OK, maybe you didn’t grow up under the best circumstances, had a child at a young age, or feel the support you need is just not there. Did you know some friends or acquaintances are only meant to be there for a season, not a lifetime? Did you know - you may fall “head over hills” for someone that was only meant to teach you a lesson, and not marry them? Did you know - you deserve to take a minute to “woosah”, treat yourself, and spend some time alone without explanation? Furthermore, did you know, the stumbling blocks you encounter really equips to tackle obstacles later in life? In order for you to be at your best in any situation, you have to take care of yourself first! Whether you believe it or not, when you don’t, everyone attached to you can suffer. Your patience becomes thin, attitude becomes short, and perception of what should be concise and clear become very distorted. Knowing your worth decreases your chances of getting so caught up in the world and viewing yourself from the eyes of others. Yes, many people’s perception comes from what they see on the outside (your physique, clothes, make-up, and hair). But God’s perception comes from what’s in the inside (values, character, heart, and soul). We can’t spend so much time doing things to impress them, because in essence, we become unhappy, even miserable - and it slowly dims the inner light that represents Him!
A N D
40 DAYS
A Y E A R - L O N G C O N V E R S A T I O N What we learned from a 40 day fast.
Last fall it was laid on our hearts to submit to a 40 day fast, abstaining from all solid foods. The process and results were so amazing that they found their way into our conversations all year. Please note that our results are not typical, any adjustment in your diet should be carefully considered (with proper guidance), we are not medical professionals and we are simply sharing this as an awesome example of will and inspiration. To start, let’s talk about WHY we decided to do the fast. There have been many things we desired to accomplish, and we have always known that in order to achieve the goals that we set, we must grow. We are always thinking ahead, and we typically start preparing for the next year around November. For about a month, we studied and mentally prepared for the experience. We were well aware of the changes that our bodies would go through and how to properly respond to them. Initially we began with the goal to complete 21 days, however we were doing so well that we honestly desired to fulfill the 40 days!
H E R E ’ S
T H E
B R E A K D O W N :
DAYS
Our forty
HOW LONG: 40 COMPLETE DAYS
BEFORE THE 40 DAYS: We had been eating fairly clean (no meat and little processed foods) prior to our decision to fast, but about five days before we started we were sure to keep it simple with fruits, vegetables and broth. Our daily intake: lots of water, 1-2 cups of herbal tea, and a little apple and cranberry juice (not everyday) ENERGY LEVEL: Surprisingly great, especially week two. We maintained normal activity the entire time. Occasional naps or moments of rest were evident during the last two weeks. DID OTHERS KNOW: We did not advertise it. However after a while and not eating at Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s dinner it was obvious. We simply said, “We’re not eating.” You can imagine the looks and questions, but it was all great. DURING MEALTIMES: When required, we still prepared food for family that were not fasting with us. Prayer and meditation was usually done at this time. AFTER 40 DAYS: A very carefully planned eating routine for 2-3 weeks or more. We realized that our palettes were completely reset, we reduced the amount of food that we could comfortably intake, and we ultimately changed our tastes both figuratively and literally. FASTING: Other Benefits: during and after there were many mental, spiritual and physical benefits that we experienced, with many more to be seen. A true testament of desire, will and faith. God is awesome!
LO
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THE FOCUS
MA
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PA
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PA
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LEARN TO DEVELOP
THE MARRIAGE
MINDSET TODAY!
W W W. M R A N D M R S G R AT I T U D E . C O M / C O N TA C T S
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
COMING SOON
GO BEYOND ORDINARYAND ENTER A WORLD OF EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES. Unlock your travel potential by calling me today. Whether by land or cruise, I can make your vacation dreams come true!
SashaESPADA
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James & Natasha KING
Relationship COMMUNICATION SUCCESS WITH
IT MAY COME AS A SURPRISE TO SOME THAT MERELY TALKING, THE EXCHANGE OF WORDS AND THOUGHTS BETWEEN TWO OR MORE PEOPLE, DOES NOT EQUATE TO COMMUNICATION - EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION THAT IS.
Consider these seven habits as you establish and/or grow your relationships. LISTEN WITHOUT CONDEMNATION: Whenever you are engaging in a conversation, remember that the other person trusts you enough to share with you with no fear of judgement. Even if you don’t say anything that is viewed as judgmental during the conversation, guard your thoughts against judgement. Not doing so could impact your thoughts, feelings, or actions towards them later on.
AVOID CRAFTINESS: If you find yourself letting a conversation brew well before it actually takes place, where you craft the other person’s responses, you are unnecessarily tampering with your emotions. Avoid being emotionally disturbed and viewing the other person inappropriately because of comments you’ve developed in your own mind. Allow the other person to communicate with you in their own truth. TALK WITHOUT COVETOUSNESS: It is not a comfortable feeling to genuinely engage in a conversation only to be met with words that are dripping with thirst. Refrain from abusing someone’s listening ear with words and thoughts that stem from longing and desiring what someone else has.
USE WORDS WITH NO COATING: At times, you may feel as if you cannot be completely truthful because you fear that you will hurt them. When this happens, you may find yourself sprinkling sugar over your words to avoid telling the whole truth. Coating your words can be misleading for them and restricting for you. There is a way to use your words wisely, and still be completely truthful.
DODGE THE COPOUT: The copout is that opportune, yet evasive moment where you find yourself using phrases like whatever, that’s okay, or I don’t care. The irony is that it is not whatever, it is not okay, and you do care. We often find ourselves using these elementary colloquialisms, not because we don’t feel like talking at that particular time, but because we have not learned how to communicate beyond our feelings. Depending on the value of the relationship, you have three options: say nothing (some comments and behaviors don’t deserve your response), agree to talk at a better time, talk through whatever the problem is.
BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR WORDS: Being that opportunities wrapped in a particular set of circumstances do not present themselves more than once, you must choose your words wisely. Justifying what you say using, “I just have to speak my mind…” is acceptable only when you are choosing to allow your spirit to control your mind. Too often, when we “speak our mind”, we are really speaking from a place where we choose to allow our emotions to control our thoughts.
TAKE CONTROL: Taking control is not about dominating the conversation or dictating the other person’s thoughts or feelings. Honestly, that type of behavior and thinking typically yields an unfavorable outcome. Instead, being responsible and taking control of your thoughts, words, and actions places you in a much more effective position for communicating. Maintaining positivity while truthfully sharing what you think and feel will have a greater impact beyond the conversation.
MarquitaLEONARD
a certified Credit Consultant who has studied consumer law and consumer rights
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FeliciaBROOKINS
Felicia is the proud wife of Mr. Jason H. Brookins and holds the prestigious title of mother to one wonderful son, Phillip J. Brookins and Goddaughter,Monique Baker. She is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi 1989 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Broadcast Journalism. She has always enjoyed writing poems and reading. She is the author of her first Christian Fiction trilogy, Sister Nadeen’s WAYS, which was released Spring 2017 and is available on Amazon.com paperback or Kindle Edition. She is also the winner of the 2016 Southern Laced Literary Award, 2018 AAMBC Urban Book of The Year and 2018 Finalist for Best Book Award from AmericanBook Fest. She has also been a featured speaker on several wellknown podcasts since the release of her Award-Winning Book. Felicia Brookins is also the Founder of the Annual Literary Touring Event,Inspired Resources, LLC ---‘WriteTheVision’-Writers Conference which connects aspiring writers and authors with experts in the fields of publishing, marketing , social media and legal advice for authors. She has held several successful tours in the Atlanta, GA, Memphis, TN area and in Jackson, MS and the Founder of ‘Book Launch Party’- Book Hosting Services for newly published authors.She is available for book club discussions and speaking opportunities concerning the platform of her book.
AUTHORFELICIABROOK.WIXSITE.COM/SISNADEENWAYS WRITETHEVISIONCONF.WIXSITE.COM/INSPIREDRESOURCESLLC
FALLON
VICTORIA
Jackson, MS native, Fallon Victoria is a graduate of Provine High School, Jackson State University and Belhaven University with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Fallon is a published writer, speaker and mentor who’s spoken to several youth and women’s groups in Mississippi. Professionally, Fallon serves as Chief Planning & Strategy Officer for the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation. In 2008 she was chosen to serve as a liaison for the National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors and was invited to the White House by the Obama Administration to participate in the National AIDS Youth Strategy Meeting in 2009. Fallon is the founder of The Difference Group LLC, a boutique service offering marketing, media and public relations services, and a creative entity dedicated to making the difference for brands, organizations and individuals. Fallon is the manager for sibling singing group, “Four Washington” who recently appeared on the nationally syndicated Steve Harvey TV Show. Creatively, Fallon is a songwriter, graphic designer, content creator, and storyteller who enjoysall aspects of the arts.
SHANDRA
THOMPSON
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DEDICATED
TO HELPING YOU FIND
HOMES THAT MATCH
YOUR LIFE & STYLE! SHANDRA THOMPSON is a 5 year Realtor whose focus is to offer a superior level of service, innovative marketing and a personalized boutique-style experience to her clientele, always staying abreast of new legislation and trends that may effect the real estate marketplace. Her clients can always expect discrete first class service, transparency, honesty & integrity. When you choose Shandra to sell your home, you can trust that she will be dedicated to market your home properly to ensure that you get the price you want and deserve, while representing your best interests in viewings & negotiations. As your buying agent, her belief and commitment is to provide you with exceptional service above and beyond your expectations. Shandra is also dedicated to giving back to the community and supports a multitude of charities. She is a member of the National Association of Realtors, and also a past member of the Young Professionals Network, and the Credentials committee within the Central MS Association of Realtors. Shandra, a native of Greenville MS, received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from Jackson State University, and her Master’s degree in Public Administration from Belhaven University. Shandra is a member of the Mississippi Association of Governmental Purchasing and Procurement Agents, Central and National Association of Realtor Association, and Central MS Realtor’s Young Professionals network, Jackson-Hinds County JSU Alumni Association, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Shandra is a member of the Greater Pearlie Grove M.B. Church where she serves as a Nursery Volunteer, as well as a member of the Greeter’s ministry. Mrs. Thompson also serves her community by volunteering with the Stewpot Community Center and the Mississippi Families for Kids. Shandra is married to Fredrick Thompson and the mother of two wonderful children; Summer Grace and Fredrick, Jr. She models her life around her favorite scriptural passage; “You can be sure that wherever in the world the message is preached, what she has just done is going to be remembered and admired” Matthew 26:13 Shandra is dedicated to helping you find homes that match your Life & Style!
selfLOVE
BY: JOANNE BELL WRIGHT
I looked up love in Webster’s dictionary. The first meaning was “a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person.” The second meaning was “a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend.” Then I searched for self-love and Webster’s said “the instinct by which one’s actions are directed to the promotion of one’s own welfare or well-being, especially an excessive regard for one’s own advantage.” A second meaning said “conceit; vanity.” When I read the differences in the definitions between love and self-love, it almost seems like selflove is a bad thing. Growing up, if you acted like you loved yourself or believed in yourself a little too much, people called you arrogant, conceited or even selfish, but in Matthew 22:39 it says “thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” That means we should love ourselves first so we know how to love our neighbors or anyone else. As women, we pride ourselves on taking care of everyone else first and putting ourselves last. Maybe it’s because that’s what we saw our moms do, or maybe we feel guilty if we take care of ourselves first. My daughter and I went shopping the other day, and I had the hardest time deciding to buy something for myself. I experienced a myriad of emotions from frustration to indecisiveness, to even anger after I completed the purchase. There was this overwhelming thought I should spend the money on something more important, like an upcoming bill or something else other than three shirts for myself.
But get this, I also bought something for my husband and it wasn’t as hard to purchase something for him as it was to buy something for myself. I even felt excited to give him a gift, but I didn’t feel that way about myself. We put ourselves last and make sure everyone else is okay before we take care of our own needs as women. Recently, I found that putting everyone else’s needs and health before our own is irresponsible. So many people depend on us to do so many things, yet it is just as much our responsibility to take care of ourselves first as it is to take care of our families. We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the day and we forget to take care of ourselves. We have to take care of our mental health by getting out with friends to have a little girl talk and laugh out loud as much as possible. Those manicures and pedicures and even the occasional makeover are good for our mental health, too. We have to take care of our physical health by exercising, and we have to take care of our body by eating healthy and watching what we put in our bodies. It’s imperative to take care of our emotional and spiritual selves by making time to study God’s Word and renew our minds daily. We take care of our spiritual selves by being careful of what we allow to get into our minds. We must do as it says in Proverbs 4:23 and “guard our hearts with all diligence for out of it flows the issues of life.” Being a little selfish is just as important as being selfless. It’s okay to steal some time for yourself to enjoy your favorite candy and not share with the kids. It’s okay. I’m reminded of the lyrics to a Whitney Houston song, “learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all.” These words resonate in my mind the older I get. It’s time we learn to love ourselves, just like the Bible teaches us to love others. Learning to love yourself truly is the greatest love of all.
EVERYONE HAS A STORY OF HOW THEY MET THEIR BELOVED. IN ITS OWN UNIQUE, SOMETIMES QUIRKY WAY, THE LOVE STORY HAS THE ABILITY TO PENETRATE ANY HEART. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO BE MARRIED OR ALREADY VESTED, SHARE YOUR STORY WITH US! OUR TEAM WILL CHOOSE THE TOP FIVE SUBMISSIONS. YOU WILL BE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE.
REQUIREMENTS: - Submit a summary of your story in 700 words or less. Let us know why you feel your story is beautiful. - Send your full name(s) - Send a serious picture and a fun picture of you both. - LMPTHEREVIEWMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM
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