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JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
WE STARTED FROM THE BOTTOM NOW WE ARE TWO Apostle Dr. Nia Gee and Omekia McNeal
HOME BUYING TIPS
WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR MARRIAGE MATTERS APOSTLES JOHNNIE & TONIA FOSTER
PLUS
SERVICE
ROAD TO AN ANTHOLOGY
FEATURED ARTIST: DANIELLE “SUNNY” BRYANT
Contents JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
03 HOME BUYING TIPS
08 WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE
BY RODNEY C. STONE
7 AUTHORS CORNER
STORY STORY
14 23
WE ARE TWO 12 MARDR NIA GEE OMEKIA M NEAL RIAGE MATTERS C
APOSTLES JOHNNIE 19 ROAD TO AN AN- AND TONIA FOSTER THOLOGHY 25 VARIOUS CONTRIBUTORS 12 CANDID MILLENIAL CONVERSA20 TSA CORNER TIONS GUIDELINES WITH DR NIA GEE NAOMI JOHNSON
6 HEALTH 09 UC COOKING CHECK PATRICIA GRAHAM
COVER
BRENDA WALKER
Our Founder Dr. Nia Gee UNCONVENTIONAL.UNORTHODOX.UNAPOLOGIC Unconventional, unorthodox, and unapologetically me when it comes to ministry. She believes the Word of God as stated in Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” However, she knows that the changes in society and time mean that we must change how we convey the Word of God to this new generation. Nia’s ministry is to the downtrodden, the casts, and to
G LO B A L BY:
W W W.I A M J U S T N I A.C O M
THE
EDITOR’S NOTE OMEKIA MCNEAL - M a g a z i n e E d it o r
We made it to 2021 because it was in the plans from the very beginning, so now that you know it was destined, do not waste it.
P H OTO
those the church has given up on. She has a strong love and compassion for these types of people; she understands that deep feeling of rejection all too well. At one point, it was her. Her mission is to engage the millennial with uncommon practices in ministry that actually appeal to them. She then equips them with The Word of the God and all the necessary armor that they need for today’s battles. Finally, she sends them forth, empowered that they may bring others into the Kingdom of God.
C O N N E CT I O N
“Bringing You Kingdom with NO Apologies”
5 Common Home Buying Mishaps to Avoid W
hether you’re new to home buying or previously purchased a home there are some mistakes and circumstances that can occur in the process. Purchasing a place to call your own is a defining life experience for many, and opens up so many opportunities to explore your creativity. If you are in the process of looking for a new home there are many mistakes or mishaps to come. Here are a few mishaps that can occur:
Buyer has lack of perceived credibility after foregoing financial pre-approval
Getting pre-approved for a home loan is one of the many important steps. Making an offer on a home without being pre-approved for an appropriate loan
Homes are not safe to be insured due to previous insurance claims
Check to see if the home have had previous damages and unsafe occurrences before purchasing home insurance. You would want to be aware of the situation before agreeing to purchase the home.
Passing on a proper home inspection leads to unfortunate surprises
A proper home inspection is vital and one of the important basic steps. It can lend insight to previous home issues and help avoid insurance mishaps. Hire a licensed professional home inspector. The home inspector will take note of anything concerning the future stability, and safety of the home.
A buyer’s awareness of previous, current and potential future issues in the foundation or sustainability of a home is so important in avoiding costly repair surprises after the purchase.
Low home appraisals make it tough to afford the asking price
A financial institution will not provide a mortgage higher than the amount of the home’s appraisal value. If the home appraisal comes in lower than the asking price, a few things may happen. The home seller first has the option to lower their asking price to meet the expectations of the appraisal. If a seller stays firm on their asking price regardless of the appraisal, a buyer might either have to pay the difference in cash or walk away from the purchase. If the seller has an experienced Realtor on their team, they are more likely to set a realistic asking price and therefore avoid this issue.
Homebuyers don’t consider renting as a potential option
Renting is often looked down upon. While there are many rewarding opportunities in owning your own home, it is always smart to wait until you’re 100% ready before embarking on this journey. There is nothing wrong with renting for a few years while you learn what you like about a home, who you like living with, and where you prefer to settle down.
O
verall, buying a home can be a smooth and confident process with the help of a professional Realtor on your team. While mishaps are common, they are less likely and easier to avoid when you have a trusted group of professionals looking out for you.
CREDIT BUREAUS EQUIFAX Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services. 800-685-1111 EXPERIAN Experian.com/help. 888-EXPERIAN 888-397-3742 TRANSUNION TransUnion.com/credit-help. 888-909-8872
y a Moment of Bliss, al l Wrapped into a Cupcake o j n E
The company was originally opened in Connecticut 2016. Reopened in 2019 here in Alabama. I am a Bakester (An old-world term meaning “A woman who bakes”). I have a culinary background and a degree from Connecticut Culinary Institute. I am a baker who is ambitious, creative, inventive and resourceful. We use local and organic ingredients to produce high quality products. My goal in 5 years is to open a Brick and Mortar to better serve the community. To feed the homeless and to provide a skills pathway for youth offenders who wish to learn life skills through hard work. I wish to reach out to the community one “sweet” treat at a time. Owner - Barbara Williams-Vazquez
Cupcakesformycupcake@gmail.com Phone: 256-384-4303
COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICES Monthly or Reoccurring BBB Accredited Business
Visibook.com/notshyyymaids • (256)333-2771
HEALTH CHECK COVID-19: The Vaccine
To vaccinate or not to vaccinate is the question that is crossing everyone’s mind. Truthfully, the decision is up to you. However, should you choose to take the vaccine let’s help you make an informed decision based on the research and what’s best for you. Let’s cover some information you may not know, need to know, or may want to know. Two pharmaceutical companies have created the COVID-19 vaccine, which are Pfizer and Moderna. Both versions of the vaccine have received an Emergency Use Authorization (EAU) from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use during this public health emergency. The FDA is required to assure the people that the vaccine is safe, effective, and can prevent disease. The manufacturers of each version of the vaccine is similar, but let’s answer those questions that inquiring minds want to know. Was this vaccine developed too quickly? During this public health emergency, researchers can work under the federal government operation known as Operation Warp Speed. Yes, there is such a thing. Operation Warp Speed allows for researchers to test the safety and efficacy of a medication on larger groups of study participants while advancing to phase three of clinical trials faster, such as within six months, instead of the typical two years. Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe and effective? The FDA is responsible for authorizing and/or approving vaccines that are safe and have data that proves the vaccine works. Is one manufacturer’s version of the vaccine better than the other? Moderna and Pfizer’s research have shown both vaccine’s to be 94% effective and both work similarly. How many doses of the vaccine will you need to take? Both vaccines require that two doses are given a certain number of days apart. It is important that you receive the same dose
and the same vaccine for your second dose. Ensure you receive a vaccination card with the dose and brand of vaccine you received for when you return for your second dose. Will the vaccine reduce the risk of COVID-19? The experts expect that the COVID-19 vaccine would prevent disease or decrease disease-like complications/symptoms in at least 50% of individuals vaccinated. Based on this information, an infected individual can still spread the virus and the usage of wearing mask, good hand hygiene, and social distancing will still be required. What are some potential side effects and/ or adverse reactions associated with the vaccine? REDNESS, SWELLING,
CHILLS
OR PAIN AT INJECTION SITE
VOMITING
FEVER
DIARRHEA
FATIGUE
MUSCLE PAIN
HEADACHE
JOINT PAIN
*Important to know, even if you experience these side effects, it is necessary that you receive the second dose.
Is the vaccine safe for children or pregnant women? Participants in the study were 16 and older and individuals that were not pregnant. The COVID-19 vaccine has not been approved for children and/or women that are pregnant.
When will the COVID-19 vaccine be available? Once authorized, each state will receive an allocation of vaccines from the federal government. Each state plans to distribute the vaccine in an fair, ethical, and timely manner.
For more information refer to: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html
Operation Warp Speed www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/ explaining-operation-warp-speed/index.html
Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant. - Robert Louis Stevenson
If I had COVID-19 and recovered, do I still need the vaccine? There is not enough data to say how long after you have been infected that you as an individual are protected from getting COVID-19 again. More studies are needed. Does the COVID-19 vaccine take place of the Flu or Pneumonia vaccine? No, the COVID-19 vaccine does not take the place of either vaccine. How much will the vaccine cost? The COVID-19 vaccine will be free and available to all regardless if you have health insurance or not.
Patrice Graham is from Atlanta, GA. She completed her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in 2012. She has worked as a bedside RN for 8 years. She specializes in Medical Surgical, Intensive Care, Perioperative, Women’s, Pediatric, and Neonatal nursing. In 2017, she returned to school and graduated with her Master’s of Science in Nursing in 2019. Currently, Patrice is pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice while continuing to be at the bedside for her patients.
Authors Corner “I Know Who I Am” -Portia Smith
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
k n a h T We r u o Y r o f You Service by Rodney C.
Stone
We Thank You for Your Service, a social term that emerged after 9/11 and has since been used as a pacifier for Soldiers returning from the War in Iraq. My conscious awareness of this term was observed after a few members of my military unit deployed in late March 2003 with 3rd ID as attachments to specific units in Iraq. Members of the local communities anticipated the Iraq war was going to be as long as the Vietnam war and did not want to see a repeat of how veterans were treated when they returned from Vietnam. Additionally, veteran organizations in Washington State and members of the communities that surrounded JBLM promoted this phrase extensively from the initial invasion of Iraq in April 2003. Initially, this term was accepted and promoted by the community to show appreciation and support to the servicemember returning from a combat deployment in defense of the United States. Throughout the years since late 2003, the term “We Thank you for your Service” has lost its luster and appreciation for the Veteran and Retirees of Americas Armed Forces. In addition to losing its luster, this phrase has transitioned from appreciation to compensation to veterans returning from combat deployments in both Iraq and Afghanistan. When a citizen says, “We Thank you for your Service,” the veteran sometimes doesn’t know what to say or how to respond to the statement. Furthermore, veterans observe the lack of “genuine” content this statement currently displays when communicated by members of the local communities, local businesses, and employees of State governments. The following examples are indicators for the lack of “genuine” content: 1. Judges or Commissioners thanking you for your service before making an unfair decision. 2. Lawyers using your military service and status as a means to paint a negative picture to the jury as being a stone-cold killer. In the present times, veterans and retirees of the U.S. Armed Forces continue to be challenged daily. Community members and professionals tend to find underlying ways to harass or pick at a veteran until that veteran
fights back, then he or she is considered “a danger to the community.” Additionally, retired veterans are required to pay for Tricare select medical coverage when ALL retired veterans receive “Tricare for Life.” Moreover, sales merchants (Dicks Sporting Goods) currently offer 10% discount for veterans and retirees however, in an effort for the veteran to receive the 10% discount, the veteran must sign-up for a store card by submitting personal Information to the customer service representative. Government leaders are consistent in their attempts to find a way to merge state retirement systems with Government retirement systems. Any budget refinement that takes place in the United States government; the leaders will look directly to the military retirement system and the benefits of veterans. Many people in various communities in the United States do not respect the veteran due to their benefits as a result of their sacrifice to their country. Veterans and retirees of the U.S. Armed Forces continue to fight for quality of life and are challenged daily by the depletion of benefits. An example of indicators of depleted benefits and perks for the veterans and retirees would be the recent shift of the Soldiers pension redirected to a TSP fund for Soldiers who serve 20 years in the Armed Forces beginning 1 January 2018. The result of this change is that Soldiers will not be able to immediately receive or collect on their military pension until the age of 62. In summary, “We thank you for your service” has become a “Jedi mind wave term” that gives a person in the community an excuse to thank a veteran while everyone else does the same thing. This process is aligned with the term Vicarious Liability. The meaning of Vicarious Liability is that if another person has something of value, then you should have the same thing of the same value. Members of the community should be required to earn to speak the phrase “We thank you for your service” to any veteran of the armed forces due to the lack of genuine concern or offer of extended assistance to the veteran. I believe if this phrase had an offer extended by someone who speaks it, then it may have a positive effect on the homeless veteran population or the daily veteran suicide rate.
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
CHICKEN IN ALFREDO SAUCE v ALFREDO SAUCE
Feeds 6 people Season both sides of 6 chicken breast marinate for 4 hours with Mello magic blend 2 tablespoons
v OVEN
350 degrees 30-35 until it temps 165 degrees
v SAUCE
Coat sauce pan with tbl spoon of olive oil 2 tbl spoons of minced garlic 1 pint of heavy whipping cream 2 cups of Parmesan (shredded) 1cup of cream cheese 4oz of white wine Use 1/4 cup of Mello magic blend Stir occasionally Once’s all ingredients are melted it’s done. Cook desired pasta in water, olive oil, and salt then drain Add sauce to pasta and chicken and tell me what your taste buds said... Take it a step further added blackened Cajun season to it for a Cajun chicken pasta.
“The Mello Chef” Marvin Foster (256) 640-0790 MELLOCHEF86@GMAIL.COM
THEMELLOCHEF.BIGCARTEL.COM
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
WE WORK FOR YOU www.pwlawlor.com 561-372-3500
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
MILLENNIAL CORNER NAOMI JOHNSON JANUARY 2021
HI THERE!
I’d like this first message to be about the purpose of this Millennial Corner. My name is Naomi Esther Johnson, and I am a daughter of the Living King I like to say that because for years, I struggled heavily with my identity. I am half Hispanic and half African American, but as I grew up, I never felt accepted in either group. I was extremely shy, quiet, and a book worm. I’m the only “mixed” one in the family as all three of my older brothers were born in Panama (the country, not the city.) I was a major tomboy and hated anything girly. Now that I’m 23, I see that all of the things I saw as a disadvantage, God has either used it, or shifted it. So now, allow me to reintroduce myself. My name is Naomi Esther Johnson. I am a young woman who loves Jesus and is on a mission to share the love that He’s shown me. You may be wondering, what parts of me did He use and what parts did He shift, right? Well, I’m glad
you asked! Because I’ve grown up in a multicultural household, I have encountered so many people from different walks of life. God has gifted me with the ability to maneuver and connect with people who don’t look, or sound like me. That shy, quiet, book worm, God shifted
AND WE KNOW THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO THOSE WHO LOVE GOD, TO THOSE WHO ARE THE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE. Romans 8:28
and turned into an author. Because of the experiences I’ve had in life (good and bad), I’ve learned so much and I just wouldn’t be me if I didn’t share those lessons with others. So, that’s what my books are about.
Struggles I’ve had with identify, fear, anxiety, depression, overdrinking, pornography, etc. And yes, I did say that last one. We’ll get to that topic another day! You’ll soon learn that I’m pretty transparent, but it’s because I don’t see how God can get the glory out of our stories if we only share the parts that don’t “seem so bad.” So, if you’ve made it this far in this message, I hope you know that your story is significant. YOU are significant. Don’t be afraid of what you’ve been through, because God is going to use it in some way. Even the nasty parts you don’t want to tell anyone. His word says that He works ALL things for the good of those that love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Until next time, Nai
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
Sonia Lawrence is a wife, mother and a Glamz. (Gma) I am known for lighting up a room with my soul that glows. I have spent the majority of my life as a military brat and later on a spouse. So, Veterans and Military families hold a special place in my heart. I find pure joy in helping families pursue the dream of home ownership. If you’re looking for an optimistic and GOD-fearing realtor.... The Real Estate Glamz is your girl!!! I do it GOD’s way every day!
Real Estate Glamz with Platinum Realty License #153070
580-704-7282 • RealEstateGlamz.com JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
the
BEGINNING
Two peas in a pod is a way to describe Apostle Dr. Nia Gee and Omekia McNeal, it was over thirty-four (34) years ago that a bond was created yet beknows to them, life would happen sending them on their own journeys. After 20 plus years, God would allow yet another journey to begin, one that had him leading the way. To know them is to love them and everywhere they may roam the atmosphere is lighter and the air is filled with understanding and transparency to the millionth power. The best of the best is what you get, human beings that are flawed, been broken, taken advantage of physically, mentally and emotionally, yet deep down in their hearts there is only the love for God’s people that counts at the end of the day. Untold Chronicles was able to catch up with our CEO and COO for a quick chat down memory lane. How does it feel to be twoyears old WOG? “Amazing Apostle Dr. Nia stated, I never thought that this would be possible, that we would be able to have our own publication and not just any publication, one that brings about change in people lives. If you would have asked me this five-years ago, I would have laughed at you, just as Sarah did at God when he told her he was going to give her a child.” Only for Him to reply, “Is there nothing too hard for me?” “For me (Omekia) it is truly a dream to have something that was created of God from the very beginning and know that the fruit it is baring will spread from state to state, country to country all over the world.” What is the most exciting part of having full control over your own publication? “I have to say that knowing He has trusted us enough to guard something as precious as the deepest thoughts and feeling of others without judgement is pretty awesome”, Omekia uttered as she played with her newly braided
hair. “Being able to produce the quality segments, articles and features that other magazine will not touch. Also giving our contributors a safe and transparent place to tell their truth is right at the top of my list”, said Apostle Dr. Nia. What level of wisdom would you give your 21-yearold self that is the CEO/COO of a Christian publication? “I would tell myself, Dr. Nia said, to always keep God first, be true to yourself and eliminate all outside voices and opinions of others.” Omekia was just as simple with her answer in saying, “Mistakes are going to be made and whether or not you are doing good or bad, people will always find a reason to put you down, so keep your eyes on the prize (God), your head in the game and understand that there was never enough room for everybody to be apart of what is about to explode in your life.”
Both expressed how humble and grateful they were to share just a very small piece of themselves with us and clearly stated, “this is only the beginning, there is so much more on the horizon, but you have to stay in the loop to know when it will take place. Currently together they have a host of platforms and growing businesses stretching across all facets of media, publication and production. Transparent/Queendomaire Internet Radio stations, Sybling Ryvalry Cosmetics, Candid Conversations (Facebook Live), Let’s Get Divorces…And Good Riddance, The Just Nia Morning Show, Untold Chronicles Radio Show, B.A.D Prayer Conference, Let’s Talk About Sex Series, The Other Side of the Grass 4-Book Series, Nigia Lash Line, Nigia Fashions, Just Nia Ministries, Heroes Series and The Destiny Prayer Line.
JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
How did we get here…well that is often a question that I ask myself also. You see my life in ministry was crappy, OMG can I say that? Yes, I think I can! My life experiences in ministry were not the best (CRAPPY), to say the least and I had been doing this thing since 1994 (with some momentary lapse in judgement here and there which led to me backsliding, several times to say the least). For some reason I also seem to get connected to ministries or the leaders in ministry that were disadvantageous to my growth and the things that God had called me to do. Well, I mean, initially I did not know that God had called me to do anything in ministry but would quickly find out the longer that I was in ministry or dealing with “church folk” and ministry lol. What God was desiring of me and it would cost me, boy oh boy would it cost me! 1994 Barbers Point, HI…one of my dear friends who was stationed with me had been inviting me and some of my friends to go to church with her and of course, I kept refusing lol. But I got tired of her asking every week as it led up to the weekend and Sunday morning for church, not to also mention this Sunday was special because it was Easter and of course most black folk whether they are saved or not go to church. You know we were the typical CME’s, Christmas, Mother’s Day and Easter only saints lol. So, with all I finally say yes to going to church and she is stoked. We make our way into this ministry that is packed full of military families clapping, singing and praising God. We walk in and just begin to bask in the ambience of what was going on, not knowing this day would change the course of my life forever. This church is known as what they call in the church world or denominationally as Pentecostal… this mean they run, jump, shout, speak in tongues, get slain in the spirit, and just really believe in the WHOLE bible as it is written in Acts 2. So, my friends and I are there watching and listening to what is going on and the
Untold Chronicles
THE VISION DR. NIA GEE
service is good, power packed and anointed. At the end of the service, as they are closing out, they call for those that would like to have prayer, get saved or join the church. Little did I know, because pineapples I was not ready, my friends go up for all three and I am left sitting there in the seat thinking to myself “what just happened?” As I am sitting the pastor calls out to me and says, “would you like to come up front and join your friends,” I at this moment are at a loss for words. But for fear of being judged and for the sake of the pastor calling me again and asking if he could pray for me, I reluctantly went. Once arriving at the altar or front of the church where they pray for people, the pastor lays his hand on me and honestly, I do not remember the rest lol. When I came too, I hear this loud voice shouting and screaming out, it was like an out of body experience when I realize that the person carrying on like that was me. My life as stated above forever changed that day. My friends and I all joined and became faithful members of this ministry and would continue to go until I transferred to another assignment with the military. Not a bad experience at all, just my first and the one that set the tone for my life! 1996 Hanford, CA and the place that God would take me on a little further in Him. I am now at a new duty station, I have had my baby and he is now 2 years old; my husband is coming to church with me from time to time, and it appears as though life is good. This new ministry would grow me, challenge me, confirm me, add to me (literally), speak into me. Signs, wonders and miracles would manifest in my life, prophecy would be spoken and fulfilled…wow I mean just a lot of things occurred while in
this place. Yet, I would learn more about who people said God was challenging thinglife. I’veA dealt with and The whatmost He could do in your second sondurwould be spoken, conceived here crisis and then my family and Iways would ing thewhile Covid-19 is finding creative to move on to our next duty station. Oh, did I forget to mention that my military career spread hope, encouragement and inspire others. would also end here due to medical conditions beyond my control. I Asalso an inspirational speaker, and I ambasics used toofbeing face would learn the foundation prayer and prophecy that would my next place. to take face me withonaninto audience, so finding ways to send out positive messages and make an income was
“
My life as stated above forever changed that day. challenging in the beginning of the pandemic.
”
2000 Gulfport, MS a place that I would learn many valuable lessons and discover how difficult it was being in a place that should have been my refuge, my sanctuary and a place that I could be and get free. Yet I found myself in this place becoming more bound than I would know what to do with. In this place I would further discover who I was told God called me to be. I would walk in the place of leadership that I was thrusted into. I would learn further instructions on how to pray here, learn that I was an intercessor here, learn and answer the call to minister here, be trained and then lead as an armorbearer here. I would also lose my biological mother here, be separated from my husband here to due military assignment, become the mother of a second son here, and learn my first bout with spiritual warfare and those that are assigned to give it to you here. Nobody ever tells you as a new convert that you must be careful because while the enemy is looking to sift you as wheat, there are some church members/leaders that are desiring to use your innocence and ignorance in the church to prey upon you. Nobody ever tells you that sometime the hell that you experience will come from your leader that is supposed to be teaching and protecting you. This was a place of my first and greatest test in ministry. This is where my decent in the Lord first started and would be a continual process until my true encounter with God take place in my backslidden state. As I was learning to serve, I was also at a place of not knowing who I was…I mean I had no identity at all and so I took virtually everything that was said and done to me at this place. I mean can you imagine being newly saved, husband gone overseas, you are left with two young baby boys, and the church first family takes you in as family, and then you are thrown
N
out as family as fast as you think you have found a haven where you will finally be accepted and loved. Because let us face it love is all any of us ever want and honestly it was what I needed at the time. The lack of love is what drove me away from the church and into the arms of other men (oh wait that is a topic for a whole nother issue). As I have taken you on just a mere snippet of my journey, the point of it all is that I gained such a romantic relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and you can read for yourself that it was no small feat. What I shared was not at all the end of my story, but the beginning of what would be a norm for me in dealing with people/ leaders in ministry. This would cause me to spend just as much time outside of Jesus as falling in love with Him repeatedly. Due to my constant hang ups of often self-infliction. Going through these trials gave me such a process of not knowing who God was and if He really loved me at all due to what I had been taught. I was at such a low point that I believed God only loved those that were good people or at least again that is what I was taught and did not find out different until my encounter with God. My encounter taught me who God really was and that He wholeheartedly loved me without condition, that was something that I never had IN LIFE! As I continued in my walk and after having all my personal experiences with those in the church, I grew weary and totally did not understand why this continued to happen to me. As I sought the Lord and continued to cry out because this seemed to be a continual thing, he began to talk to me and tell me that my journey was not in vain and that he wanted to use my life to help others and to expose the enemy that he would no longer continue to do to Gods people what had been done to me. That my life and story would be one that would deliver others through my transparency and continued testimonies. But what He was calling me to do would also open the door for other leaders and cause them to walk in the same way by giving their truthful testimonies that can be used as testimonials for others to be healed and delivered by. Once this was explained to me, now the how it would happen needed to be given as well. God began to speak with me about a safe place that leaders could share without reprisal of backlash and he gave to me Untold Chronicles and my COO/partner/manager/sister would be the one that he would use along side me to get out this vision.
iamjustnia.com JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
“
I am a liar, a deceiver, a cheater, an adulterer, and a procrastinator.
”
Just the Beginning of
A JOURNEY BY OMEKIA MCNEAL
I am a liar, a deceiver, a cheater, an adulterer, and a procrastinator. Now those title that I have described me as at some point and time are not exhaustive nor are, they who I ever thought I would be. Why are you saying these things about yourself, I am sure you are asking? The simple answer is this, I now know who I am and Who’s I am, therefore the truth will always set me free. Let me be clear in saying this was not always the case and it took a very long time for me to get to this place. Many days and nights of prayer, blood, sweat, tears and soul searching has allowed my eyes to be opened to how freeing it is to just be real with others and myself. I am worthy, you better ask somebody! Where I am today is not in the cards that I thought were dealt for me, many years ago. I can remember at a young age being told I would be pregnant before getting out of school, that I would most likely not amount to anything by those that were close to me and told me daily that they loved me. There was one conversation that stands out, where I had to break the news to my parents that I was now with child at the age of 16. Standing in Domino’s Pizza is where I gave my mother the shocking information, she immediately started to say things like she knew this would happen and that I should have been smarter.
Once the rest of the family found out about the terrible awful it was just more of the same, I told you so’s, what were you thinking and the infamous “you have ruined your life”. Many even went as far as to say that next I would not be able to finish high school now that I would be tied down with having to take care of a child. The pregnancy itself was not as bad it was for me the looks from my family, the looks from those fellow peers in school. Oh, did I mention my baby daddy was a rolling stone, screwing everything moving, the funny part of this part of the story was, I was the last one to know. Easier would come but the scaring and the labeling and the picture of who I thought I was had already set in my mind. The year 1992 came in swiftly and on May 7th I gave birth to my first child Antonia Latrelle Hinson and silly me I was thinking the hardest thing I was going to have to face was raising a little one and graduating on time, but little did I know it would be the least of my worries going into 1993. Experiencing the death of my grandmother, Esther Lee Hargrove did not make the road smooth, if you know what I mean. She was the one, looking back, was the one that truly keep my eyes on the prize of showing everyone that all the things they had labeled me with would not be and now I had to figure out how to do this without her. I graduated with my baby girl
Y
looking on proudly at me with those bright beautiful eyes and with the The most beauty challenging durdistinguished queenthing title ofI’ve Missdealt Jesswith Lanier 1993. Covid-19conversations crisis is finding ways to ing the Recalling withcreative Ester Lee Hargrove, I can still hearspread her telling meencouragement “Baby girl you and can inspire be anything you want as long hope, others. as you put your mind to it”! Well, I did not become a doctor or lawyer, As an inspirational speaker, I am used to being face just to be technical it was a struggle just getting through my senior to face with an audience, so finding ways to send year of high school, but I made it. Three children, a divorce and two out positive messages andand make anfrom income was cancer, took devastating deaths, my mother aunt metastatic challenging in the beginning of athe pandemic. me down through there. I became different person when looking in the mirror that I would not recognize for many years to come. Drinking, partying, being careless with men, not being able to hold down a job and just being irresponsible seemed to be what fueled me and no matter how much I knew it was wrong, I just could not seem to stop. Even evictions and car repossessions did not seem to be a deciding factor for a lifestyle change until one night I got comfortable in being in a world that wasn’t for me. At the blink of an eye, I found myself facing death and there was no way out, no one to call but by the grace of God (of course I did not realize, nor did I even think to pray at that time) I was able to convince the individual that I was just as shocked about what had happened and that I was not apart of what had happened. See I had been the common denominator between two people that were dealing drugs and thinking I was smarter than they were did not realize I was being set up by someone I thought was my friend. I can see it as plain as day being held at gunpoint and being promised that if I could not make it right then I might as well prepare to die. The look in his eyes and the fact that this person was now going to decide whether I was going to live, this moment turned into hours and at one point he showed me the gun. I just knew this would be the last time I would see my children, my family, there were so many things left undone and unsaid. It is safe to say it was not my last day on earth and it was one of the major things that made me want to have and live a better life for my children and myself. Making the decision to join the Army made that new start possible, a different path, a different outlook on life but that did not stop the drama or the headaches. The list only got bigger, leaving my small children behind to complete training, a couple of rear-ender car accidents (injured my back), being sexually assaulted within a few months of being at my new duty station and being committed. The story leaves the United States and enters another country where affairs with married service men, falling in love with them only to find myself out in
the cold hoping for something that was NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN. It took a few years to wake up from the same nightmare I thought I outran when I joined the military, but I was able to rise and somewhat see that this was not the life I wanted, and it was time to do something about it. Marriage and happiness soon came when I least expected as well as a few breakups and a brink of divorce. During that time of being apart and near the end of my union I found that God was missing in everything that I had endured over the years and it was only through Him that things were going to change. Finding that vital missing piece was only the start, yet it did not safeguard a reunion, a second chance with a huge wedding to match and yet still another breakup and a time to makeup. A long half of a year brought the relationship back and the train is still on the track but no where near being without the curves and tunnels as it rolls. A new journey a business (MCOFLOW Enterprises, LLC DBA Belinda Gail Management) and a new city (moved back to Alabama) gave the gateway for my voyage to be told. In my business building strong foundations and helping to bring the ideas of others to life has launched a unique opportunity where daily I get to guide others in making their ideas, thoughts and dreams come true. Many of those cases allow them to discover hidden gems within themselves. We not only help build and create we have the privilege of placing the content on our many facets of media for exposure, television, radio, podcasting, social media and publication. Uncovering my own God-given purpose shed light on how I was supposed to be obedient to what the Lord gave me and I do realize that this is only a very small part of the bigger picture. See it is very important to know that this was a small piece of what I have encountered and witnessed. I felt it was important to share this small yet relevant piece, which made it possible for you to hear a snapshot about my journey. The events I spoke of above are all complex, have many moving parts ups and downs and are necessary for you to get the fullness of how they have shaped my life and my faith. Never give up on your ideas, things you may having been thinking about doing because you could find yourself years down the road regretting what you could have accomplished.
YOU ARE WORTHY, YOU BETTER ASK SOMEBODY!
The Road To An Anthology
. E . V . I . R D.
ips h s n io t la e R ic Domest posed x E e c n le io V Involving I am Joyce Hester a.k.a. Lady Joy. I am a survivor of Domes-
tic Violence. Over the course of my life I have experienced five outlets of abuse- physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and financial abuse. I have not always known that Domestic Violence was a part of my life because I had no clear definition of what Domestic Violence truly embodied. Domestic Violence started for me when I was seven years old however, I did not know it. I was sexually molested by my biological father from age seven to thirteen. I then spent over twenty-five years in a marriage that was fueled with emotional, verbal, a little pushing and shoving every so often and still did not see that it too was Domestic Violence. While going through a divorce I met a man who I thought was my soulmate. We had everything in common and I felt like where has he been my whole life to the point of thinking, the over twenty-five-year marital relationship had been a mistake on my part. Little did I know that I would spend the next four years of my life being talked to like I was dirt on the bottom of his shoe, cursed
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JOYCE “LADY JOY” HESTER IAMJUSTL ADYJOY@GMAIL.COM
out and more times than I care to admit beaten within inches of losing my life. So, because the only definition I had for Domestic Violence at the time was someone who beats a woman up, all of the things I experienced before I met the monster, I feel, left me open to the physical abuse that I lived through with him. I now know that it is all domestic violence and I now spend a lot of my time advocating for those who have lost their voices through a domestic violence relationship. I look forward to sharing information and insight with the Untold Chronicles readers on the subject matter of Domestic Violence. Know that GOD loves you so much and so do I and there ain’t nothing you can do about it. Peace, Joy and Love, LADY JOY
5 New TSA Guidelines You Need to Know Now The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) to make some changes to the security process to further protect flyers and TSA officers. And as destinations, hotels, resorts and theme parks are starting to open up and welcome visitors again, it’s not doubt that air traffic will continue to get a bit busier. “In the interest of TSA frontline workers and traveler BRENDA WALKER health, TSA is committed to making prudent changes to our screening processes to limit physical contact and increase physical distance as much as possible,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a recent press release. If you’re flying somewhere and haven’t been through a TSA security checkpoint since before the pandemic, here are five new things you should expect: 1. You won’t hand your boarding pass to a TSA officer. Whether it’s on paper or electronic (on your smartphone), you will place it on the boarding pass reader to scan it, then show it to the TSA officer. 2. Put all food items in a clear plastic bag and remove it from your carry-on before screening. Though this rule has been in place for a while, it wasn’t often enforced – but it will be now. Travelers with TSA Precheck are exempt from this one. 3. You’ll need to pack even smarter than before because if a prohibited item (like liquids over 3.4 ounces) is found during screening, you may be told to go back outside of the security area to remove and have to start all over again. This is to prevent TSA officers from touching passengers’ bags as frequently as they used to. Quick reminder: You can now bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer through security, but it must be removed from your bag before screening. 4. You should practice social distancing. Yes, some societal rules go out the window when you’re at the airport (A cocktail at 9:00 am? Paying $15 for a beer? Sure!), but social distancing is not one of them. It’s going to be part of our normal life for a while so just get used to it and give people at least six feet of space. 5. It’s highly encouraged to wear face protection. You can leave your face covering (mask, bandana, etc.) on when you go through screening but you’ll still need to remove the standard items: your belt, your shoes and anything in your pockets. In a recent press release, TSA shared a few more things flyers today should be aware of: l Reduced security lane usage due to the reduction in passenger volume. l All TSA officers at checkpoints wearing masks and gloves. l TSA officers optionally wearing eye protection and clear plastic face shields at some locations. l TSA officers will continue the practice of changing gloves after each pat-down. l Plastic shielding installed at many travel document checking podiums, divest, bag search and drop off locations. l TSA officers practicing social distancing. l Routine cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces in the screening checkpoint area.
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Sneak Peak Next month’s issue to include special Valentine’s Day romance advice as well as your usual favorites: • HEALTH CHECK • MILLENIAL CORNER • AUTHORS CORNER • UC COOKING • ROAD TO AN ANTHOLOGY • MARRIAGE MATTERS
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Marriage Matters By Apostle Johnnie & Toni Foster
CONQUERING THE FEAR OF MARRIAGE We all face different kinds of fears in life. Some fears we have overcome but there are others we have yet to conquer. Can you believe there are some people who fear getting married? It’s called gamophobia, which is not only the fear of marriage but also commitment. According to an article in Regain.us there are actually symptoms that follow after this phobia: Some symptoms to watch for include: • Anxiety when thinking about marriage • Avoidance of married couples and weddings • Unable to cope with the anxiety from commitment • Muscle tension, weakness, or sweating • Panic attacks or anxiety attacks (can feel like a heart attack) In times past, many men couldn’t wait to leave their fathers and mothers to cleave to their wives and start a family. Nowadays, the fear of marriage has caused
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the definition of marriage to be redefined by the world’s system. Today because of commitment issues many are shacking up and playing house instead of making the life long commitment of marriage. Sadly, everything they do speaks of marriage but they just have not made it legal by the law of the land. What has caused this? Some men and women have come from broken homes, in other words had only a single parent household. The strain of parents divorcing or never marrying that is put on the household can cause unfor giveness, hurts, bitterness and rejection to creep into the heart of the victims. Since they’ve never dealt with the pain of daddy or mommy breaking up the family it affects their views on future relationships. The thought of having children can cause fear of marriage. Some deal with the fear of having children and not trusting that they can raise them better than they were raised. Because of them being raised in dysfunction it keeps them from wanting to raise kids in that same type of environment. They continually relive the hurts, pains and misery and have to come face to face with those issues. They simply are not ready to deal with children being added, because they will have to deal with their past. Mental illness in the family can cause some to have a fear of marriage. There could be one emotional event that took place in their lives and that opened a door that said, “Nope, I will never go through something like this again.”
SO WHAT CAN BE DONE TO OVERCOME THE FEAR OF GETTING MARRIED? • Having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit, The Spirit of Truth will teach us all things. John 14:26 So through developing our relationship with our heavenly Father we learn how to properly love and He heals us from those issues that open us to fear.
Take a chance by stepping out on faith. Faith triumphs over fear. Tear down the walls that have bound your feet from moving forth in the God ordained institution of marriage. Allow God into those hidden areas and allow His healing virtue to be released in your life.
• Prayer and allowing the Lord to speak to you about the concerns of your heart. Release all your concerns on the altar of prayer. The effective and fervent prayers of the righteous avails much. James 5:16
Now go get a massage with your mate and release the stress and anxiety of conversing about marriage. You can overcome this for you are more than a conqueror and God sees you as a victor and not a victim. So let’s defeat fear and all its associated tentacles in Jesus name. Amen
• Counseling is also an effective tool. Professional counseling can help you to get to the root of the issues and deal with them. This will help us to stop fighting symptoms and expose the real problem so we can walk in our victory.
APOSTLES JOHNNIE AND TONIA FOSTER THE OVERFLOW KINGDOM MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL 7250 BANDERA RD. SUITE 113 SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS JANUARY 2021 ISSUE 25
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*N NEW ARTIST* Danielle Sunny Bryant Danielle “Sunny” Bryant's new single "Trust in the Lord" will be available on all digital and streaming music platforms. Trust in the Lord produced by Jerald Bryant and Jawad Mills of Icon Recording Studios, is inspired by the scripture Proverbs 3:5-6, encouraging listeners to trust in the Lord, and lean not to thy own understanding during difficult times. Danielle's testimony is one of many miracles, specifically, overcoming major surgery and lifethreatening illness. "Trust in the Lord" reminds listeners that God not only is still in the miracle-working business, but that He will truly show you the way when it feels like no way is possible. Multi-Award-winning Gospel Recording Artist Danielle Sunny Bryant is a singer, songwriter, preacher, and college graduate. A native of Cumberland County, New Jersey, she attended Vineland Public Schools graduating at the top twenty percentile of her senior class. She is the worship leader at her local church Christlike Ministries of Deliverance, International, and she is a member of the National Praise Team for the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA). Danielle’s musical background not only includes gospel, but such genres as jazz, classical, and opera. It is Danielle’s powerful, “churchy” tone that brings the church to listeners every time they hear her sing- almost placing them in the middle of a Sunday worship service. Danielle has appeared throughout the United States and Internationally and accompanied a virtual "Who's Who" in gospel and secular music industry for a myriad of prestigious events and venues. She is the proud 2019 recipient of three Rhythm of Gospel Awards and works diligently to broaden her ministry to reach more individuals through her message of praise. Danielle has been nominated in five categories for the 2020 Rhythm of Gospel Awards as well as first-round ballot nominee for the 2020 Dove Awards for her hit singles “Don’t Give Up” and “Live On Purpose.” Danielle was awarded the 2020 Rhythm of Gospel Awards Praise and Worship Song of the Year and was named the Rhythm of Gospel Awards Artist of the Year for her single ''I Believe God''
Follow: @daniellesunnyb/Danielle Sunny Bryant BOOKING CONTACT: daniellesunnydbryant@gmail.com Sunny Bryant Music Group 856-691-0834
DANIELLE “SUNNY” BRYANT Follow: @daniellesunnyb/Danielle Sunny Bryant BOOKING CONTACT: daniellesunnydbryant@gmail.com Sunny Bryant Music Group
856.691.0834
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