ReBirth Magazine

ReNewed ReFreshed ReVived

From the Editor From the very beginning I never doubted the strength of this magazine. The sense of confidence that I have from beginning a part of this is one of my life’s monuments. In this issue we look into the lives of those with loved ones lost. ReBirth Magazine is honored to take part in the remembrance of their legacies. As always we are a people’s magazine and we shall continue to reach out to the people in which we love.

Editor in Chief

From the Publisher

On The Cover: Clockwise from Upper Right: Darlene Reese, Verna Gordon, LaShona Mosby and Jade Potier

This Issue’s Contibutors Erron Johnson Angela Gatlin Kaylin Allen- Haynes Karen Gardner- Alexander Ebony Kenney Yalandra McClain Yolanda Brown Elissa Boudreaux Pamela Boudreaux- Vessel Carrie Davidson Monroe Xavier Tundra Alfred Alicia Boudreaux Adrian Chapman Felicia Hull Verna Gordon Jade Poitier Louisa Palmer Naisha Cooper Photography- Tarlisha Jasper

Wow! ReBirth Magazine is already into the fourth month of 2015 and we have grown in so many directions. The collection of Contributors and Content has expanded the globe. As I look back to March of 2013, ReBirth Magazine was just in the stage of pre-conception. The magazine has grown by leaps and bounds and touched so many lives in so many different ways. I can honestly say that my motivation behind the continued pursuit of success of this journey is not monetary, but the opportunity to inspire and encourage people to walk out on faith and pursue that unthinkable dream. I hope that in the eyes of the readers ReBirth Magazine has remained on the path of its mission statement to ReFresh, ReNew and ReVive people from all walks of life. And if we have not, please call us on it as only the People Magazine should be.

ReBirth Staff Founder-Publisher/Simone Higginbotham Editor In Chief/ Vanessa T . Williams Features Editor/Verna Gordon Style and Beauty Editor/Pamela Vessel Copy Editor/Danielle Martin Arts and Entertainment Editor/Monroe Xavier Faith and Spirituality/Erron Johnson Health and Fitness/ Jasmine Wilson Cover Design-Layout/Tony Norwood

Faith & Spirituality Introduction This section is a catalyst for change. It is my belief that to every natural problem, there lies a spiritual root. There’s so many things that we encounter in this life, simply being human, that there’s a great need for an encourager, a motivator, someone to illuminate the dark clouds that seem to encompass our psyche, and propel us to change. This section of the magazine and it’s contributors will do just that. We will address issues that you or someone very close to you, may be experiencing or dealing with and guide you to a way out, or equip you press through, simply with a few words. We are the voice for the voiceless, average men and women worldwide, and together, we’re a force to be reckoned with. It is written, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a

new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” – Romans 12:2 (NLT)… We aren’t playing mind games; we’ve come to set the captive free… “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” – John 8:36 (NKJV) “Renewed. Refreshed. Reborn… ReBirth.”

Min. Erron R. Johnson Faith & Spirituality Editor

A Tisket - A Tasket - How Many Souls in Your Basket?

With Easter/Resurrection Sunday approaching, there’s always a lot of hoopla over Peter Cottontail, Easter egg hunts, and colorful baskets with colorful eggs, chocolates and candy. I’m sure we can all remember when we were growing up, we would dye eggs, prepare our baskets and were told to wait for Peter Cottontail to come leave us some eggs and treats.

Life was so simple then. However today, these traditions are looked down upon by many, because everything seems to commercialize the true meaning of special holidays with spiritual roots. In the midst of our growing, maturing, and coming to the knowledge of God’s truth, many take a stand against the fables of old. Today, it’s all declared to be pagan and evil. In the midst of radical religion, children are usually the ones that suffer the most. They miss out because they don’t presently understand what we as adults have grown to know.

it from the young coming up, and they’ve enough stolen from them today. Their youthfulness and innocence is now tainted with vulgarity, perversion, violence, technology and cyber bullying. We must not get so caught up on rigid religion. Yes, this season is about relationship, not rabbits. This is the season that embraces the reality of Jesus’ death and resurrection, which laid the foundation and established our eternal relationship with Him. Religion never saved a soul and never will. It’s not so much the Easter egg and bunny that steal the true meaning of this season, it’s the distraction of rigid religion, which focuses more on making a fuss over how the bunny trail should not be hopped, rather than focusing on the path to salvation. Yes, when we know better, we do better, but should it all be at the expense of souls in the balance? Have we ever thought about keeping the eggs, having the hunts, but use it as a means’ to be fishers of men’s souls to draw others to Christ?

hunting for lost souls in the world, finding them and bringing them to knowledge of God’s truth, through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. The basket can be the earth, with all its green grass. Hidden inside that grass, are lost souls that need to be found. Has anybody ever thought of coloring some eggs black to symbolize lost souls? After all, that’s how our hearts look before we accept Jesus.

THEN we can color some eggs red and say it’s because of His blood we are saved. Then some eggs can be left white and those are the souls that have been saved and washed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Perhaps the vast array of other colors can be symbolic of our individuality. The one who finds most of the black eggs (lost souls) wins the hunt.

Let’s not let religion steal the path to relationship. Let’s create new ways to be fishers and finders of lost souls. There’s a trail to be trod to Jesus everywhere we go; we just have to hop.

Happy Hopping, God called us to be fishermen of souls, Most of us have already had our child- and fishermen use bait. Let’s use our bait. Kaylin A. Haynes hood fun, but have the audacity to steal Easter egg hunts could be symbols of

Father’s Day: Will The Real Men Please Stand up?

Google defines Father’s Day as a day on which fathers are particularly honored by their children, especially with gifts and greeting cards. The bible speaks on fatherhood as such: "The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him."- Proverbs 23:24 (NIV) Just like any other holiday, fathers all over the world receive gifts, cards, dinner and various other things to be shown appreciation for being a great father. Now, let’s take a look into reality…

In this present day in time, a large number of fathers are not actively involved in their child’s/children’s lives. Sad but true. I find that a lot of mothers are being celebrated for both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as well. Personally, I don’t agree with telling a mother “Happy Father’s Day” in celebration of that day. I believe that although the father may have been absent; a mother is, and will only be a mother, and should not be recognized as a mother and father on Father’s Day. Yes, a lot of mothers play the role of an absent father and I applaud and commend mothers on doing that.

However, a mother has her role, and a father has his roll. I, being one of those people who grew up without my father, can relate to not having my father in my life. All I had was my mother, and what an amazing job she did raising my brother and I alone. Yes, my father is alive, and doing well, but for some reason I have yet to understand why he has not or even attempted to be a part of my life. On a more positive note, I admire the men who take care of their children, and who are actively involved in their children’s lives. They not only take care of them financially, but they take the time to show them the role of a man, how to be a man, how to treat a woman, how to

give respect, how to be tough, and many other roles. I also tend to find a lot of males that very proudly take full responsibility of children that are not their own. These men don’t even have children of their own, but they take on the role of being a father.

his daughter the tricks and manipulations from boys and men that she will have to face, especially when entering into adulthood. The great thing about daughters is that we have mothers, or motherly figures, who can teach us how to be women, and we have fathers, (if they are present,) to show us the ropes on dating guys. However, in my opinion, only a man can teach a boy how to be a man.

Again, yes, a lot of mothers play the role of both mother and father, but when it comes to boys, the father or father figure should be present to teach our young boys how to be men. I believe if we had more active fathers, we would have fewer killings, less domestic violence, less crimes, etc.

For the fathers who are active in their children’s lives, I commend you. To all readers, if you know a man who is a father or even a father figure, show him some appreciation this Father’s Day. For the fathers who are not active in their child’s lives, show them some kind of appreciation as well, because if God hadn’t allowed that man and woman to conceive, the child would not be here. Regardless if the father is present or not, I believe a simple “Happy Father’s Day” will do something within them. Those words, that card, that gift, may be the very thing to jumpstart that dad to be an even better father. Romans 12:19 (KJV) says, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, thus saith the Lord.” As a child, growing up without my father, I never understood why he was never there for me, and to this day still isn’t. However, after reading the scriptures, I realize that these absent fathers do not have to answer to their children, but will someday have to answer to God. So to the fathers… Will you continue to be great fathers? Will you be better fathers? Will you step up and BE a father? Our Father, who art in Heaven will guide you. Seek Him first, because it isn’t too late.

The title of this article is, “Will the Real Men Please Stand Up?” Society needs to understand that when it comes to your daughters, we, (I say we because I can relate,) need to have our fathers in our lives to know by example, the type of man we should desire to have in our own lives. A father should be able to show his daughter how she should be treated as a girl, a teenager, a young lady, and as a woman. A father should be able to teach Adrian L. Chapman

thanksgiving.” Praying is essential to our daily life. We, as a people, have been conditioned to P.U.S.H… Pray Until Something Happens.

IN THE SPIRIT OF THE TRUTH: KEEP IT REAL

I = Be of Good INTEGRITY - Titus 2:7-8 says, “Be of good example... to others… by your actions.” Your life is a reflection of what you teach. Being honest is hard for some people. No matter if you’re at home, at school, at work, or in the community. Integrity is essential to living a healthy lifestyle.

We all have a journey and have a purpose. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works through the good of those who love him have been called to his purpose, (NIV).

T = Be on TIME - Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:” Simply put, there is a purpose & plan, with a set time to all things. The only plan that I know is God’s Plan.

When you have a journey, and you understand your self-worth, your purpose, and your strength, “no weapon formed against you shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17a) However, sometimes we forget our very worth, our purpose, and the strength that our higher power gives us. Sometimes, we have to go back to our foundations to remember what we sometimes forget.

I was given the chance to speak to a group of young people in New Orleans, La. at one of the local high schools. In preparation, it allowed me to think on how I survived as a teenager and what mechanisms I used to keep my focus. At an early age, I learned that I had to make my own philosophy or affirmations.

The only thing that I knew was to refer to the Bible. During my high school years, I fell into that trap of being shamed for speaking the word of God, and was shamed to let my friends know the spiritual side of me. I hated to be bullied, and didn’t want to add something else to the list. So… I developed phrases to say, without quoting scripture.

As I have grown and lived a little, I am no longer afraid to share that spiritual side of me.

One of the things that I have learned is that we have to put our fears aside, and live in the Spirit. Well, in preparation to speak to the students, I pulled out one of my old journals from high school with all my philosophies and affirmations, and the one that I used the most was KEEP IT REAL. Now the teens today are saying KEEP IT 100!!!!! Or just plain 100!!!

So what does KEEP IT REAL mean to me?

R = Be RESPECTFUL - 1 Peter 2:17 states simply, “Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the King.” No matter what, we must obey God rather than man, but on earth, we must follow the laws of man.

K = Be KIND - Ephesians 4:32 states, “Be KIND to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, and Just as God in Christ has forgiven you.” Too often we are not kind to one another and we intently harm persons by our actions or the words that we say. Just for today, let’s be kind to one another and be mindful of the words that we say.

E = Be of ENDURANCE - Romans 15:4 basically states that the more you know about God, and his scriptures, the greater the confidence we have about what he will do in the days ahead. We should read our bibles to increase our trust that God will is best for us.

A = Be of GOOD ATTITUDE - Ephesians 4:17 -32 are our instructions for Christian living.

The Christian Walk is essential to a good attitude. When you have God in your heart, people that are believers and nonE and E = Be ENCOURAGED AND BE believers should be able to tell.

EMPOWERED - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 states, “Therefore be encouraged by one L = Be of LOVE - I Corinthians 13:4 states, another and build up one another, just as “Love is patient, Love is kind, and is not you are also doing” See, a word of jealous; Love does not brag and is not encouragement offered at the right arrogant.” We must give love and expect moment, can be the difference in nothing in return. finishing well. Be sensitive to other’s need Keeping it Real, God shows us love for encouragement, and offer supportive without expecting anything in return. So words or actions. at this time, can we show a little LOVE through Fellowship with one another?

P = Be PRAYERFUL - Colossians 4:2 states, And Remember… Keep It Real!!!

“Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of Carrie Davidson

Your Forever Sister

worst, getting to a place of mental stagnation; a place where fear of making the wrong decision and suffering from it grips us thus causing us to be at ease making no decision rather than making one.

It would seem that in these sensitive times, when a friend is needed, no one can be found. The only person we are reluctant to bump into is that one with an “I told you so” mentality; or worst, that who is scarred from their past and every piece of advice is full of “doom and gloom.” But only if there was someone who was there to share concerns with? What if there was someone with unbiased, straight forward advice that points out issues that would not normally be seen while in an

Louisa Palmer Questions? Crossroad decisions? A second opinion? Private concern? You are not alone. In life, we all are faced with those important decisions that can have either positive or negative effect on our lives. Sure we are elated when our decision yields a good result, but it is those experiences that manifest bad results that causes us to begin questioning everything we do, say, and/or act out. (Even when we know it is the right thing to do.) The fallout of a decision has a way of causing us to sway back and forth, forth and back, until we find ourselves stress-out, pacing all night, losing much needed sleep, and snapping on love ones. What is

Well Ladies and gentlemen, I am humbled to announce that “Your Forever Sister” is now at your service. My name is Louisa Palmer, I am the proud founder of Forever Sister a support group for women whose mission is to educate, encourage and empower women. I am a child of mother, minister, teacher, author, and mentor. I have failed; I have overcome those failures. I have made emotional decisions, and have suffered the consequences. The best part of it all is that through God’s grace, I am still standing with principles to empower.

One of my favorite quotes is, “If you don’t like what you see in the mirror….change it!” I believe we all, at times, have questions we desire answers to. I do understand, at times, we are reluctant to.

Well you do not have to be anymore.

“Ask Your Forever Sister” column will is here and will answer any questions you may have. Tell Your Forever Sister what is on your mind concerning work, personal awareness, love, romance, physical and spiritual well being. Your Forever Sister will offer candid advice, life strategies and an occasional activity to help you put you on track.

Our first column will debut in July 2015. I can’t wait to hear from you.

Submit your questions emotional state/being blinded by other askyourforeversister@gmail.com. barriers? What if there was someone who, in private, could answer those questions and provide principles that assist in making a quality decision?

to

Devotional for Parents Psalm 127:4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.

From the moment we find out that we are going to be responsible for another life our emotions do a dance that's hard to explain. I'm sure my first thoughts were the sex of the baby and then I thought about the health, after the delivery you think

Juggling Single Parenthood People often look down on single parents.

Especially, if they assume you are a single black woman, raising several children from different relationships. Rarely does anyone fathom that you could be a widow, abandoned by a former spouse or lost your husband due to war or some other method of violence. I was a single mother at age seventeen. My mother passed away due to illness and I had to step up and raise my younger siblings or risk losing them to the foster care system.

My situation was not common but from a very early age, I learned to juggle the craft of parenting.

I look at parenting like any other well run business. Work comes before pleasure.

Everyone’s opinion will be heard and respected. Mom is the CEO and designated assignments are marginally negotiable. Our support system is sound and reinforced by weekly family meetings. If one of us has a problem, then we all have a problem and we work

about the safety and well-being- will they be academic or athletic, talkative or introvert.

But this scripture lets us know that our influence and rearing has a lot to do with the direction that our children take. God gave them to us as a gift- one that we should protect, love and cherish but be disciplined enough to correct them and make the One Who gave them to us proud!

As a mother, I've spent many nights laden by thoughts of whether or not I was doing all I could as a parent, whether I was failing them or making them too naive by sheltering them. I'm no expert now, but having an adult son I look back and see where I could have done things differently thus netting different results. My 2 younger kids are benefitting from that and I pray that the things that I learned to do/ not to do will shape them into successful beings who serve an Awesome God. Back to the Scripture, it refers to the child as an arrow which makes us the Marksman, directing them to the appointed target. Being a parental Warrior, we have watched our child enough to know their strengths and weaknesses, where they will flourish and where they will struggle, their gifts and talents. Only after then can we aim them in the area of their future... You may have

together to get things back on track. We confidently expose our weaknesses and collectively develop a plan for growth and development.

the next Doctor, Lawyer, Preacher or President and the foundation that you laid (or the lack thereof) is the path to purpose!

Parents, this isn't easy- I was a scared 16 year old that didn't own anything but my legal name but I had enough sense to ask God to help me and I aspired to be a better me so that my son would have a chance and be proud to call me his mother. All we can do is foundational work, train them the best we know how and pray they adhere to the teaching.

Kind of like a child learning to ride a bike, after we remove the training wheels we guide the bike- trying to ensure the steadiness, but at some point we must let go. In letting go sometimes they fall or don't know how to stop but eventually they gain balance and maneuver that bike like a pro!

In closing, my advice is to continually examine yourself- riffing yourself of things that have a negative influence over your children and give them the best chance at being an adult by being a better adult before them- sure they're going to make mistakes, we did, but it's all a part of the process! Make sure to direct your arrow towards the sky because that's the only limit they should see.

Naisha Cooper

understand what you’re facing. It can also be beneficial to have an agreement with other women to watch each other’s children so you can enjoy a church event, a date night or a girls night out on Children don’t ask to come into this world. the town.

There is no manual that will suddenly appear to help you get it right. It is Dating can be tricky. Every man that you imperative that each family member meet does not need to meet your knows their role and attempts to do it children. That will leave them confused well. It is especially tough on single and feeling unstable. There is no security working mothers. They can’t make every in that and that can break the trust play, game or recital. That doesn’t make between you. Don’t allow your children to you a bad parent because you have to be the ones to determine if a man is a work hard to provide for your family. Even good mate for you. Some kids are overly in such an instance, you are providing a protective and will sabotage any strong and sound example by doing what relationship you enter into because they needs to be done. When you do have want to keep you all to themselves. time to spend with your family, make Don’t over compensate financially. You certain that it is quality time. There are a are operating on a single person’s lot of people who are around their income. Sometimes those new tennis children but have nothing of quality to shoes or latest handbag may have to offer to their children. wait. The children will just have to Develop a strong support system. It isn’t understand. Don’t allow them to make easy being there for everyone else and at you feel guilty for not having a father the end of the day, there is no one to ask figure in the home. Simply do the best you if you’re okay. Talk to women within your can. It’s a tricky juggling act but no one family, church or join a support group of can do it quite like you. other single mothers. It helps to vent and to express yourself to others who truly Felicia Livingstone

The Absence of Parenting A Fatherless Daughter Being a fatherless daughter was not only challenging, but also a tragedy in the aspects of the situations I had to endure during the entire span of my life. From birth, I was daddy’s little girl. My mother and father divorced when I was 10 years old, and it made a major impact on how the rest of my life would begin to unfold.

In fact, it prompted a tragic turn of events which could have cost me my life.

Throughout my childhood I looked for love in all the wrong places, ultimately searching for the love I never received from my father. I became very promiscuous from the tender age of 14, began dating guys that weren’t age appropriate, and being so young, I was treated as their trophy. At that age my mindset wasn’t very mature, so this “treatment” made me believe I was important, eventually becoming their obsession, being controlled, and then used as a punching bag. It became very apparent that I was in the vicious cycle of domestic abuse, at one point thinking I had “EVERLAST” branded on me as the brand of a punching bag. For some reason, every man I met was just that way, which I later discovered was learned and taught behavior on both ends. It became embedded in me, and to me, it was just the norm. All I wanted was a man to love me, and that never happened, and I mean that literally. I have never been in a healthy relationship, and it started with having an absent father.

I’ve made many choices that I feel had my father been in my life, I otherwise wouldn’t have made, or that he’d have stepped in and changed the course. It started with promiscuity, use and abuse of drugs/alcohol, giving up my precious body to countless men, who had no respect for me because I had no respect for myself, the loss of two (2) children due to domestic abuse, beaten beyond recognition, fighting daily and being left for dead. Truth is, all I wanted was the fatherly love and guidance I so richly deserved and craved. I guess that’s why I dated some entirely too old, some with money from good jobs, but mostly drug dealers. That was financial support I didn’t receive from him, lacking things young girls needed, and also the impoverished

life he left my mom with. I went through the motions for many years, eventually marrying an abuser of not only me, but drugs, alcohol, women and the streets.

I hung with the wrong crowds, and tried to fit in wherever I could to be “THAT GIRL.” This was in no way a reflection on my mom, who did all she could on $264.00 per month, broken down into $66 per week, to the point of her taking on extra jobs to support my sister and I. That became the result of my being

young women who are lost in this big, cruel world, with no guidance from the one person who was from the foundation of the world, deemed to be the head. Of course, if we go back in history, we can see that from Adam to slavery, and now, it’s been a constant cycle of men not knowing their place, and men taken out of their place. I thank God that He stepped into my life, changed my mindset, and I’m now walking in victory; not only over myself but also with my daughters. Yes, I have been through hell and back, but my famous words are, “But by the Grace of God, I am Still Standing”!!!!

I’ve been a fatherless daughter with no clue of what it feels like to be loved by a real man, and my suggestion to you is to make better choices. And in doing that, you must know who you are and whose you are. You are a child of the Most High God.

Mama… Where Is My Mother? unsupervised, or watched over by a father. This is how being without a father can affect the ability to distinguish the difference between love, and the ability to be loved. Without my father being there, I had a 50/50 chance into developing into a well-rounded young lady. Although today, I’m much stronger and much wiser, it took a toll on knowing my self-worth, and having the confidence and will power to deal with unhealthy relationships. At 44, I‘m still currently dealing with issues as it regards to men and relationships, this is because it affected my ability to not only deal with them but to choose men wisely.

I am the face of a fatherless daughter; my children are the faces of fatherless daughters, because they are being raised in a single parent home; a result of divorced parents who encountered abuse on both sides. History has repeated itself in that aspect of our lives, and I believe it’s a direct result of my father not being an active part in my life, in the years that were a crucial part of my development in knowing my worth, and who I am. It was definitely a trickling affect. What fathers fail to understand is that they have given their responsibility over to society; this then becomes a societal problem. We see it every day,

“She’s up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day. She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she’s put aside, plants a garden. First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day. She’s skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking.

She’s quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor. She doesn’t worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear… When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly. She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive. Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise: “Many women have done wonderful things, but you’ve outclassed them all!” Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.” -Proverbs 31:15-21, 26-30 (MSG)

The above passage expresses several qualities of the virtuous wife. For the sake of the subject matter and nature of this article, verses pertaining to motherhood were specifically selected, for not every wife is a mother, and for that matter, in this day and age, it can well be said that not every woman with children is a mother.

mostly on themselves. There’s not giving, only selfishness where they’re concerned, only looking out for their wants and desires, while the children, toddlers to teens, suffer the consequences. Because of what they see, and are aware that they don’t have, they become teased, ridiculed, bullied, leading to low selfesteem, and often depression which becomes evident in failing grades and I choose not to address this subject from social disassociation. Mother, where are the aspect of being a single parent, or you? that from a single father, but rather from the standpoint of the maternal parent Moving onto having “something being present, yet not fulfilling the role of worthwhile to say,” saying it kindly, or being a said, “mother.” That’s right… I’m even having some wisdom to impart, to be honest, it’s rarely found in these addressing negligence. particular women. Most of the time, when Based on the previously mentioned asked about their responsibilities toward passage alone, one of the first things we their children, they quickly become notice is that this woman is up early, defensive, and ignorance reigns evident preparing a meal for her family, but it’s in their speech. They can normally tell you not just preparing breakfast, she’s everything about what’s happening on planning her whole day, as well as their current favorite reality TV show, or ensuring there will be food in the future. what’s going on with their favorite It’s quite sad to say that more often than celebrities, yet cannot tell you the name not, we’re finding a greater number of of their child’s teacher, the school smaller children left to fend for principal’s name, alone the last time they helped with, looked at or checked their themselves. child’s homework. Instead of staying It’s one of the most disturbing things you busy, diligent and productive, we find can imagine, to see a child arrive at them talking a lot about “getting busy” school wearing dirty or odoriferous and diligent in other’s business, a great (smelly) clothing, mix & match clothing or deal of their time spent on social media; clothing that entirely too big, or too small, the vast majority of their pictures with shoes that are too small, have holes in their backs turned, slightly or completely them or their sole’s coming off, and when bent over, as if they were displaying their asked if who dressed them, they reply, “I greatest “assets,” however so simple, dressed myself.” Or if asked where their they simply remain unfruitful. Mother, mother’s were, they respond, “In the bed where are you? sleep.” It’s admirable the children have the initiative to get themselves dressed, What we want to find is more of those leave home, and catch the bus or walk women of whom we can say, “Many to school on their own, yet who’s to be women have done wonderful things, but held accountable for their welfare and you’ve outclassed them all!” We’ve often their cleanliness? It’s even worse when heard the cliché’ used time and time the parent arrives for a conference, or if again, “A good man is hard to find.” On something goes wrong, and they show the contrary, time has seemingly proven up with their hair and nails freshly done, that those tables have turned, and the wearing the latest fashion. In my statement which remains is the one the upbringing, parents were the ones who mother of King Lemuel is quoted of saying sacrificed, that their children would have in Proverbs 31:10 (MSG), “A good woman what they needed; to look presentable, is hard to find, and worth far more than let alone the bare necessities. Mother, diamonds.” where are you?

Mothers… Where are you?

Many claim that they’re virtuous women, but we find that this virtuous woman worked as well. Whereas we see many of these women rely on government assistance, and are quick to tell you that they have no desire to, or simply will not work, regardless if their children lack what they need. They’ll tell you that getting a job will interfere with their governmental assistance, or even if their child has a disability, that their working would cut their children’s check, which they spend

No More Suffering In Silence

1-800 –251-BABY

was like, yeah right, lol. Once again, I baked the 1st year’s birthday cake for my niece (who, by now I have given the nickname “Sassy”) and I received the 1. Who is Kecia Sanders? same response. So, in Feb.1999 I sold my Kecia Sanders is the wife of Edward first cake and I’ve been at it ever since.

Sanders, who happens to be one of my Kecia's Kakes grew into a business which biggest marketing reps. I’m the mother eight (two with special needs) & am blessed with five grandkids that keep me moving forward.

I graduated Valedictorian from John Mc Donogh Sr. High in New Orleans in 1990. In 1995, I received my degree in Business Management from the University of New Orleans & had big dreams of working on Wall Street, being a top executive at a Fortune 500 Company. God had other plans for my life that surpasses any job I could have chosen for myself.

Have Your Cake...

2.

What is the name of the service you provide?

Sassy Creations dba Kecia’s Kakes provides cakes, desserts and party supplies for all occasions. In 2014 Sassy Creations was established when my business branched off into different arenas. I was no longer providing ONLY cakes, but cake stands, decorative cake toppers, decorative glasses, and many other personalized party supplies. Sassy Creations was created to be an umbrella for Kecia’s Kakes (established in 1999) and all future business ventures to come. I chose the name Sassy Creations to pay homage and reflect back to where it all originated from, my niece “Sassy”.

3.

How long have you been providing this service?

I provide cakes for all ages. Some of my seasoned customers love the jelly cakes, homemade pound cakes & the lemon cake that my great grandmother taught me to bake. My younger customers are huge fans of my old school cakes as well because it brings back memories of cakes they may have had in their youth made by their grandmothers. My #1 seller is my Almond/wedding cake flavored cakes & the new favorite is strawberry cake.

Cake prices range from $5 to $1000+ & are determined by my clients’ budget. In essence, the client can build their own cake. Since Katrina I relocated to Baton Rouge from New Orleans and now service customers from Texas to Alabama & New Orleans to Atlanta but Baton Rouge is where I reside.

allowed me to stay home, care for my special needs kids and support my family.

I began creating cakes for ALL occasions and the business grew by word of mouth.

Many who attended parties and tasted a cake, now ordered cakes and the cycle continuously repeats itself even today 8. and I give all glory to GOD.

The benefits for those who use your service?

5.

4.

There have been times when I wanted to return to the corporate world but GOD would always send a complete stranger to tell me how my cake uplifted them in some form or fashion. Some would say it was too pretty to cut & others would tell me how they would battle over the last

In 1997, I was so excited about the arrival of my very first niece that I made a cake for my sister's baby shower. To my surprise, I received a lot of great feedback from people saying, "You should sell these." I

6. What are the demographics for those that use your service (age, gender, and race)?

7. Where is your service offered? Where?

When? Cost?

Since February of 1999

What made you start providing this service?

piece. To see the eyes of children light up when they see their favorite character on a cake or a single father that recently lost his job, whose spirit is lifted when he reads the message “Keep your head up” or “Best Dad Ever”, these are some of the things that makes every sacrificed hour worth it. My customers motivate me in ways and I don’t think I’ll ever have enough words to explain but I thank GOD for every last one of them & I pray GOD’s continued blessings on their lives.

How can you be contacted?

I can be reached by calling or texting (225) 955-3505.

9. What health tips can you pass on to the ReBirth Magazine readers?

Kecia's Kakes also offers sugar free cake and whipped cream icing (which is lower in sugar than butter cream icing).

10. Do you have a success story that you can share with the readers?

I made my first cake as a resident in the Calliope project in Uptown New Orleans now I own my home in the great city of Baton Rouge producing wonderful confectioneries with my family. My son Justin is also claiming his territory as the next great baker, selling individual party treats such as cake or brownie pops, rice crispy treats, chocolate covered pretzels, decorative cookies, chocolate covered marshmallows‌ to name a few. Justin is very innovative in creating new items like banana pudding cupcakes, which is like, old school meets new school. He is now an inspiration for his younger sister Jennifer who at the age of eleven, has already mastered mini pound cakes and sweet potato pies.

12. What keeps you motivated?

Cooking is therapeutic; it keeps me calm & brings me joy. When I was a little girl, my great grandmother allowed me to make my first cake. I was truly impressed to see how something as simple as sugar, flour, butter & eggs, could make such a beautiful & delicious treat. I come from a long line of women who were great cooks and bakers. I would watch cooking shows while my siblings were watching cartoons on Saturdays. The women in my life were an inspiration to me, so it blesses me to see how I am a muse for my own children and I'm just glad that others are touched by my work

...and Eat It Too!

11. What keeps the customer/client coming back?

I believe customers like being able to customize their cake, which is the inspiration behind the slogan "Cakes designed with you in mind". Customers are loyal because of consistency. My cakes taste the same as they did 15 years ago. They have the option of selecting a new item but they usually want the flavor that drew them in initially.

Ingredients

Directions

2 cups of thinly sliced Rhubarb

Stir rhubarb into a large pot of boiling water and cook for 10 seconds. Quickly drain rhubarb and rinse with cold water until cool; transfer rhubarb to a large bowl.

Place red onion, green, yellow, red bell peppers, jalapeno pepper, and cilantro into food processor and pulse 3 to 4 times to finely chop; transfer mixture to bowl with rhubarb. Stir in roma tomatoes.

Dissolve brown sugar in key lime juice in a bowl; lightly stir in lime juice mixture into rhubarb mixture. Sprinkle salsa with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper and stir salsa again. Refrigerate at least 3 hours to blend flavors

1 small red onion, coarsely chopped 1 large green bell pepper, seeded and coarsely chopped 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and coarsely chopped 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and coarsely chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and coarsely chopped, or to taste ½ chopped fresh cilantro Prep: 30mins

3 roma (plum) tomatoes, finely diced

Cook: 5mins

2 teaspoons brown sugar

Ready in: 3hr 35min

5 tablespoons key lime juice 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt 1 pinch of garlic powder, or to taste ground black pepper

Spring time is right around the corner. The weather will be warm and the flowers will be in bloom. Now would be the time to schedule your spring break vacations. Like most people when you think of spring time you think of somewhere warm and relaxing. We will list just a few destinations that may peak your interest for vacation Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica is a beautiful destination to enjoy the outdoors and some of the most beautiful beaches. The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the high season December through April as the rainy season is May through November. Travel during the spring in order to experience the best of both worlds; where you will avoid crowds and benefit from lower fees at hotels and resorts. Manuel Antonio National Park offers some of the country’s most spectacular beaches without the hordes of spring breakers. You will find lush tropical rain forest while spotting iguanas, tropical birds and monkeys directly from the white sands. Activities you can enjoy are surfing tournament, canopying, bird watching and sport fishing. (Visit Manuel Antonio Costa Rica)

Portland, Oregon Portland a city that is laid-back, friendly abounds with beauty, fun filled activities and you can truly “Smell the Roses”! Portland “The City of Rose’s” known for its climate, produces beautiful blossoming roses in the spring and then peak in June. A trendy spot to visit while in Portland is the International Rose Test Garden where you can smell thousands of roses. Join the festivities from mid May through mid June with the Portland Rose Festival and partake in flower shows, parades and more. The city’s transportation system is the best means of travel. Other sites to visit include Fort Vancouver a fur trading camp in 1825, Children’s theater or the Oregon Zoo. (Visit Portland,

Washington D.C. Thinking of traveling to the nation’s capital? Why not visit Washington D.C. when the cherry trees bud blushing blooms with bursts of color in the spring.

The city’s annual National Cherry Blossom Festival is held in late March early April which is the best time to see the flowers at their peak and a perfect time when the children are out of school during spring break. Guided bike rides to moonlit river cruises hosted by local companies to assist travelers with cherry blossom tours in order to assist with petal peeping. During your stay in D.C. you may wish to stay in cozier accommodations such as historic hotels and quaint Bed and Breakfasts. Well-liked neighborhoods to stay are Capitol Hill, downtown and DuPont Circle. Other attractions that can be visiting is the National Mall, National Zoo, Washington Monument and Bureau of Engraving and Printing. During your time you will have enjoyed the blossoming of the cherry trees and taken in a few historical and educational sites as well.

Yosemite National Park, California A destination that I enjoyed visiting growing up was Yosemite National Park. There is nothing like fresh crisp air and the sound of nature and waterfalls. Yosemite National Park is stunning in the spring. The weather is mild, the dogwoods are blooming and the infamous waterfalls are at their fullest due to the runoff from the spring thawing.

Visit this amazing park during National Park Week, which is held during the final week of April, and your entrance fee to the park is waived. This is not only a great spring vacation but one that the whole family can enjoy. Enjoy a scenic ride on horseback to Vernal Fall, take a hike to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias or for the fisherman in you go fly-fishing in one of the park’s 58 streams. Enjoy a stay at Chateau du Bureau resort located 16 miles from the parks south entrance.

What these destinations have in common is that they are affordable, historic, exciting, relaxing and great for weekend getaways in the spring or just pure family fun. The one thing you should never forget on any trip is a camera to capture all your memorable moments. (Yosemite National Park) Tundra Alfred of CMK TRAVELS

plan to do things that your children enjoy, and also try to find new and exciting things to do. If they're into movies, plan for a movie night. A great idea is to set up a concession stand in your kitchen.

Buy an inexpensive popcorn machine and movie snacks for the family. (Secret: Your local Dollar Tree has all the king size With summer fast approaching, have you candies that you can ask for.) This may started planning for your summer vaca- take a little work on the parents part, but tion yet? If you're looking to have a family the kids will love it! friendly vacation, here are a few tips that may help you in your planning.

How about planning a spa day? Which mothers and daughters don’t like to be If your vacation limits you from traveling, pampered? While the ladies are being the first thing to do is go to your town's pampered, dads can spend some qualchamber of commerce website, and see ity time golfing with their sons, or going to what local attractions, or tourist attrac- the gym. These things can easily be done tions are in your town. You would be sur- at home also. prised at what's going on in your very own backyard!

On the other hand, if you want to leave the house. Theme parks are always fun!

Here are a few tips if you're going the Be mindful that summer is also when they “staycation” route… are most expensive. Okay, so everyone knows that Disney is great, but there are Here are a few tips if you're going the other theme parks that aren't as well“staycation” route… known as Disney. Have you heard about Dollywood which is in Pigeon Falls, TN? It's Tip No. 1.) Plan your “staycation” the one of those well kept secrets. An added same as if you were actually traveling bonus is that it's only minutes from the away from home by making a budget for Smoky Mountains. Personally, it’s one of food and activities each day. So, now the best theme parks that I've ever been you're wondering, “Why do I need to to. make a budget for food?” Simple, who wants to cook every day while on vaca- Another great theme park is Carowinds in tion!?! That being said, plan to order take Charlotte, NC. Not only is it kid friendly, out a few nights. meaning there are a good number of

Are We There Yet?!!

Staycationing and Vacationing with the Kids

things to do with the kids, this park is Tip No. 2.) Absolutely NO business calls. known for having some of the best roller This is supposed to be a vacation! coasters in the country.

Tip No. 3.) When it comes to activities, Another great option is a family cruise.

There are several choices when it comes to cruising with the family. Cruise lines are always offering deals, and the earlier you make the reservations, the lower the price you pay. Check your email, and you've probably got an offer waiting on you!

Whatever you choose to do, whether you choose a staycation or a vacation, the key is in the planning. Make sure you have an itinerary for each day. If you know ahead of time what your day will consist of, the less time you waste deciding what you're going to do, and the more time you have to enjoy your family.

2015 Spring / Summer Fashion Trends

for Curvy Girls Is it just me or does it seem like this past winter was unreasonably long? A few times there were sneak peeks at Spring then ZAP, it was freezing again! Finally, Spring is in the air, and as the outside temps begin to rise, so is our excitement to go out and shop for new fashion. Unlike past seasons, things are looking up for curvy girls. There are more options available for girls with curves. Designers, manufacturers and retailers are doing more to oblige us curvy girls with both in season and current on trend fashion. The average woman is size 14 so it’s about time we are given the respect we deserve. No more having to purchase clothing that makes us look 10 years older. We want stylish fashion just like smaller girls. Well ladies, wait no more, we have assembled an “it list” of this season’s

fashionable, but making a comeback is Platforms and Flatform sandals with a true blast from the past, chunky heels.

Pretty Pastels in lavender, pink and blues as well as Bold Colors like neon and corals are also in for Spring and Summer 2015.

Another return from the past, 70’s Boho is back along with the hip look of the 70’s. fashion must have’s for curvy girls!

Cash flow a little slow, check the back of your closet or your mother’s closet and Wide Leg Culottes you just may find a few pieces you can work into this season’s collection of “That Platforms and Flatforms 70’s” on trend fashions. A spin off from Pretty Pastels and Bold Colors winter plaid is the Gingham Print also known as the picnic table print, which 70’s Boho come in cool shades are also popular.

Gingham Prints Curvy girls love a pencil skirt but ,Skirts that flair are in and making a statement, along Fit and Flair Skirts with Utilitarian military-inspired looks.

Utilitarian Saddle Bags Dresses, pants and skirts with cargo pockets in military colors are what you Lace want in your wardrobe. Lace continues to trend for Spring / Summer 2015 as well Black and White as Black and White palettes that have proven to be on trend year round in Wide leg culottes are back! For those of recent seasons you who are too young to know what a So whether your style preference is girlie, culotte is, its wide leg trouser pants. You dressy or more laid back, this season’s know the saying, keep it long enough Spring / Summer 2015 Fashion Trends “it and it will probably come back in style. list” is diverse and sure to have more than These wide leg cropped trousers come in a few looks that will work for you. With so different lengths from just above the many options, it will be easy for you to mix knee, to a few inches above the ankle, and match some awesome threads and and look great with a wedge, heel or flat. hit the streets in style.

Gladiator Sandals and Flats are functional, great looking , and still Alicia Boudreaux

Visit: thebestfashionblog.com/womens-fashion/2015-jeans-styles-for-curvy-women.com

Getting to Know Latonya Rounds

Baton Rouge at The McKinley Alumni Center located at 1520 Thomas Delpit Dr. on Monday and Wednesday, 5:306:30pm. My Zumba Fitness classes in Baker are held at BREC Greenwood Community

Heath tips I can offer to ReBirth Magazine reader is to eat clean foods and exercise regularly. In other words eat nutrition dense foods that have not been processed and engage in at least 4 hours of moderate activity (Zumba, biking, walking) per week. It’s all about planning.

Plan your meals and workouts in advanced to help you stay consistent and on track. Don’t Ever Quit! I have many students that have reached their fitness goals through attending my classes. A testimonial page is located on my website. Also reviews can be found on my facebook page.

LaTonya (Tonya) is a licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor, an independent Herbal Life Distributor, and a Wellness Coach. I provide Zumba Fitness classes, group/ personal training packets and wellness coaching. I have been providing this service to the community for over four years. I started providing this service because I am passionate about the overall wellness of women and girls. My mission is to empower women and girls to live an abundant life that illuminates wellness, clarity and evolution. Those who use the services I offer will improve their health by engaging in activities that detox the body, relieves stress, builds strength, increases endurance, and most of all easy and fun to do! In addition, participants will make new friends to further support them with reaching their fitness goal. The demographic of the clients I service range in ages from 7 thru 70 years old. I service both female and male clients of any race.

Park Theater located at 133350 Hwy 19 on Tuesday and Thursday 6:00-7:00pm.

Zumba class at Southern is Tuesday 5:006:00pm in the intermural Sports Complex located in the rear of campus near the My service is offered in Baton Rouge, dormitories (just pass the checkpoint).

Baker, and the campus of Southern Classes are $7 per class or $25 per month.

University. I teach Zumba Fitness classes in Please visit www.225dancefitness.com to

Iaso Nutraburst I am a Network Marketing Entrepreneur and I have partnered with Total Life Changes.

Our flag ship product is the Iaso Tea. The Iaso Tea ingredients are 100% organic and are a special blend of safe, natural, edible herbs: Holy Thistle, Persimmon leaves, Malva leaves, Marsh Mallow leaves, Blessed Thistle, Papaya, Ginger, Chamomile, and Myrrh. It is the special blend that allows the gentle cleansing of the whole body with continued use. All the enzymes that used to be in our food to give us colon health have been destroyed with modern processing of foods and pasteurization of dairy products. Now we can get back to enjoying perfect colon health!

The next products I would like to give a little more detail about is the NutraBurst. The tea takes the bad stuff out and the NutraBurst puts the good stuff back in. This whole food, liquid formula packs a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals in a single tablespoon.

Today more than ever, we need whole food nutrients to keep up with the lifestyles we lead. We often have little time, money, or ability to prepare nutrient rich meals. Just one tablespoon of Iaso Nutraburst each day makes it easy to meet your nutritional needs.

For something different, try mixing with your

sign up. I can be contacted via phone at 225-603-8683; email 225dancefitness.com; Facebook ZumbaWithLaTonyaRounds; Twitter @ 225dancefitness or IG MissZumbaLady

morning juice or smoothy everything your body craves.

My customers and clients return because they have made a commitment to being well and are surrounding themselves with others who share that same commitment.

My students look forward to the 60 minutes of “me” time they share with one another. I support my students so they support me. What keeps me motivated is the feedback I receive from my clients. I value their questions, opinions and concerns.

and

get committed after I was tired of her. To my surprise, I was shock that the tea was working. Keep in mind that I have tried a lot Both of these products can be purchased at of products because I was always trying to www.yalandramcclain.wix.com/treasuretea loose weight. I had come to the conclusion that because obesity exist on both side of my family, I was born to be fat.

Today I can declare that Total Life Changes has changed my life. My health is getting better and better. My weight is dropping in both pounds and inches and I am doing things I have not done in years. I went from a size 28 or 30 to a size 20! I am loving my journey.

Testimonials My name is Vernique Russell and I have been overweight all my life.

In fact I normally say I was born fat. Almost 4 months ago, my life change when a friend contacted me about trying some detox tea.

I gave her the run around and finally

I suffer from an underactive thyroid, therefore I was tired all the time with little to no energy to do anything. This became a problem due to my fast past career. I reached out to Yalandra for her help. She recommended the NutraBurst to give me that boost that I needed. After trying this product for one day I noticed a tremendous difference. I had lots of energy, felt great and was able to get more accomplished. I even recommended it to another friend of my who also suffers from the same problem.

Thanks Yalandra for your recommendation, I truly love the product.

Health and beauty are very essential to our well being. Inside and out, we have the need to look and feel our very best. There are so many beauty product lines and health and fitness products out there that it is certainly impossible to find out everything about all of them. My prayer is that this section educate, motivate, encourage and give you tools to make is soooo much easier to navigate through the dos and don’ts, the I can an I can'ts of food, exercise, makeup, fitness and health and just general issues attributed to each of these. This section will answer questions some dare to ask and some that have been asked over and over again. I hope to inspire the hopeless and push the envelope of those trying to do better. I dare you to dedicate yourself to you and be all that you can be!

-Pamela Vessell MUA Health and Beauty Editor

Lip Service

tist in a lab somewhere in the world. I mix each individual jar and each has a unique name of its own. I also offer a custom shade creating option so that you may create the exact shade that you may need to match with an outfit, compliment the color of your eyes or just one

I have been a makeup artist for almost seven years now, but I have loved everything about makeup for far longer than that. Recently, God gave me the idea and blessing to be able to create something of my own so I put together what I know and I created “Lip Service”., an all natural lipstick line. I have always loved to read, so I always pay attention to detail and ingredients in products. Being a cosmetologist, I’ve also studied many ingredients, their benefits and purposes, inside and outside of the classrooms. Many of us slather ourselves in products, but we have no idea of their contents. Just try reading the ingredient label on your favorite item.

Uhh, I'm sure most of the words are long and too hard to pronounce and I know you defi- that you’ve dreamed up. I guarantee that my lipsticks will leave your lips supple nitely don't know what they are used for. and moisturized. They won't dry out your I decided to go the natural route and lips which make for easy removal from the use only natural ingredients in my lipstick lips. These products will also will leave line. I use products like mango butter, your lips hydrated after removal. While Shea Butter, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and we are talking about removing, I have peppermint essential oil; all natural ingre- also created an all natural makeup redients and are totally hydrating and are mover that I’ve personally formulated to created by Mother Earth, not by a scien- hydrate.

Last year my “Dazzle” line was showcased on the runway of “Happy to Be Nappy” (hair care product line} hair show and education event. I am still working on that line but very soon those lipsticks will be available for purchase. With this line, the base lipsticks are the same as “Lip Service” lipsticks but with a beautiful glimmering glitter overlay. With that being said, “Dazzle” will be available in an array of colors! They are perfect for a night out on the town or for a bold day look.

While “Lip Service” I'm sure will create a buzz, I’m certainly not stopping there!

There will be lip glosses, all natural exfoliating sugar lip scrubs, eye shadows and even tinted lip butters for the little divas.”

Lip Service“ by “The Ebony Experience” is growing. I’ve put my heart into making this product to make others happy. I have been blessed with so many gifts so I’m grabbing you and the beauty industry and we are going to give the world beauty in every color there is. With my supporters being a part of this means everything to me. I will never stop creating to bless others.

Ebony Kenney

SPRING HAIR COLOR TRENDS GET YOUR COLOR ON

hair. The color can skew warm or cool, depending on your skin tone. Ideally you should keep more depth at the roots so you can extend time between appointments, keeping it on the lower maintenance side The one surprising area in spring hair color trends is yes, one dimensional.

Onedimensional, by definition, means shallow, surface level, lacking in depth. In other words, it's not a word we usually throw around as a compliment. But forget all that, because the prettiest colors for spring are rich, impactful and— yes—one-dimensional.

With spring just around the corner, it’s finally time to wake our tresses from their winter hibernation and rejuvenate them with some fresh color. The change of the season doesn’t have to mean a drastic hair overhaul. Spring hair color trends for 2015 range from funky fun color to crisp All color is beautiful if the colors possess a bright blonds to a little enhancement to quality of integrity, richness, and are appropriate for the skin tone. You can your own natural hair color. have whatever color you want, and a lot Let’s talk about the tried and true of times, hair color depends on your blondes, the trend of blondes never get lifestyle, your workplace and/or your old wether you are adding blonde to personal feeling. your natural, hair for a little pick up or I rock a serious red all the time but in the completely changing your entire canvas spring and summer I may feel like adding to a canvas of blonde to ease from the a few highlights of blonde or a fun funky spring to the summer. Now be careful color to it for the season. Whatever choices you choose regarding your hair when you are playing in the playground color, make sure that you are taking the of blondes . If you are a diva that is best healthiest approach to achieving wearing a relaxer then incorporating the color.

Seek advice from your blondes into your hair, it just maybe professional hair colorist for the method. damaging to your hair. Relaxers and Karla Montgomery lighting or high lift lightning can be a dangerous combination.

A big trend for hair color is adding enhancements to your own color. For instance, to your already natural chocolate hair color for a little upbeat of spring, you can add caramel highlights or add tones of red highlights to the existing color.

The funky fun colors are becoming a growing trend form the pastel colors to the deep vibrant colors such as indigo blur, oranges, purple, bright red, and pinks. These bright colors are being worn as peek a boo colors or as whole head colors.

What Ombre was to 2013, Ecaille will be the trend for 2015.

We’ve seen the fashionable crowd shift away from dramatic contrast from roots to ends, and towards more natural effects. The best result comes from taking your natural color and adding caramel, amber and golden highlights. It’s a much softer effect than Ombre, and creates a more blended multi-dimension throughout the

shook her head as her best friend and her friend’s husband crossed her mind.

Now that all the guests had gone either home or to the rooms they had reserved for themselves, Lisa relaxed in the bubble-filled Jacuzzi waiting for Michael to come in and join her.

“Michael honey, I don’t know how long me or this water is going to stay hot. So you better hurry up and get in here.” When he didn’t respond or come in she called out for him again. “Honey?”

Michael still didn’t respond. She assumed he couldn’t hear her over the music that she left playing in the bedroom of the suite.

After a few minutes Lisa put down her wine glass, stepped out of the water and walked through the suite GOD said, “The Man has become like one of us, capable of knowing everything, ranging from good to find Michael. She didn’t care to to evil…So GOD expelled them from the Garden of Eden… wrap herself in a towel because her intent was to motivate him to join He threw them out of the garden and stationed angel-cherubim and a revolving sword of fire east of her. She trembled from the coolness it, guarding the path to the Tree-of-Life. of the A/C as she tracked wet foot– Genesis 3:22-24 MSG prints through the suite. “Hmm, now where did he go?” Lisa hurried back to the Jacuzzi trembling. “Oh shoot, it’s cold out there, I better adjust it a little.”

A couple of rose petals that were spread around the suite were stuck to the bottom of Lisa’s feet. When she stepped back into the water they came off on top of the bubbles.

Lisa laid her head back and smiled as she thought about how her friend girls had come through for her. Close to the end of the party, they had come up and decorated the room with rose petals on Michael and Lisa bed and floor, candles, wine, and started Pandora playing through the portable Lisa couldn’t help but to smile. The speakers from her MP3 player just as she party went great. Seeing Michael smile all instructed them. She doesn’t know whose night with all his friends and family to cele- idea it was but there were also strawberbrate his thirtieth birthday was well worth ries and whip cream on the ledge of the the stressful planning for this day.

Jacuzzi and on the nightstand by the Even though the weeks of planning bed. It was the perfect set up to make for was starting to take a toll on her body, a perfect ending to a perfect night. Only she couldn’t let this night end without if her husband was in there to help finish showing her husband of 4 years how the night off was all she needed right much she loved him. Lisa wanted the now. after party for her and her husband to be Lisa was about to off about to doze extra special, a night he would remem- off when she heard the door to the suite ber. If everything went as she planned, open. “Michael is that you?” something would come from this that will “Yeah Bae it’s me.” always remind them of tonight.

“Where did you go” For Michael’s birthday, Lisa had “Oh umm, I ran, umm, to the ice mabooked the ballroom and a suite at the chine to get some ice for the wine.” nicest hotel Baton Rouge had to offer.

“We already had some.”

The band and DJ played hits that ranged “Umm, I know, I just wanted to make from old school to new school. The dance sure we had enough.” floor stayed packed. There was no mis“You sure took a long time to get taking; everyone that attended had a back.” wonderful time. “Well almost everyone.”

“Oh yeah, I went to the business censhe whispered under her breath and ter to check my email. Did you know

THEN LIFE BEGAN…

Beyond the Garden’s Gate

Charles and Veronica stayed over at the hotel too? I saw Veronica downstairs.”

Lisa rolled her eyes. She really didn’t want to invite Charles to the party because she knew he would bring Veronica with him. Charles was Michael’s friend and Charles still has no clue that Veronica tried to seduce Michael a few days before Michael married Lisa and while she was married to Charles.

“Funny thing. I looked up and there she was sitting at the bar. I hadn’t even noticed her sitting there all that time. She said Charles was on his way back down but I didn’t wait around to see him.”

So that’s why he took so long he was down there in the bar talking to that tramp. Lisa had it in her mind to jump out of the Jacuzzi and check for any traces of Veronica on her man. “Let it go, Lisa.

Don’t ruin tonight” she told herself under her breath. Lisa trusted Michael and new there was no way he would let anything happen. As a matter of fact, she found out about Veronica trying to seduce Michael out of his own mouth with every detail of what happened and Lisa believed him.

I’m sure he went to the bar to clear his mind, she thought. Lisa knew in Michael’s mind there was one thing that made the night a little less than perfect.

Neither his only brother, Marcus, nor his parents were there to celebrate his birthday. They had all been killed by a drunk driver on the day Marcus return from the military.

Before Marcus died, he reminded Michael of their promise to name their first son after the other brother. The fact that Lisa and Michael haven’t been able to conceive their first child was starting to put a big strain on their marriage. But Lisa purposed in her mind that tonight was the night that she would conceive their first son.

When Michael had finally come into the bathroom, Lisa enjoyed watching Michael undress while she watched. He was such a handsome man. The color of his skin reminded her of melted chocolate because it was smooth, dark and shiny from the body oil he wore on this chest.

Michael lift weights regularly since he had a weight bench in his man cave, as he calls it. His abs were tight. Because of Michael she knew what people meant when they called it a six pack.

Michael dried Lisa off as Lisa dried him off after they had finished their bath.

He was still surprised that Lisa had slipped her friends the room key during the party and had all of this set up. Little did Lisa know, Michael had a little surprise for her. “I had asked your same sneaky little friends to come and set up the strawberries and whipped cream.

When I gave them the suite key they never mentioned they had yours already.

If they did everything like they were supposed to, you should find something for you under your pillow.”

Michael reached over and turned on the lamp on side of the bed.

“What, you didn’t? But it’s your birthday not mine.” Lisa exclaimed happily as she sat up to search under the pillow. There was nothing under her pillow.

Michael looked under his pillow and there was a box and an envelope with “Lisa” written on the envelope in his bad handwriting. He handed it to Lisa. She removed the card from the envelope.

Michael had chosen a card with a rose on the front and words that said. “For My Wife”. Lisa opened the card to read the inside. She noticed all the writing on the inside was mostly Michael’s handwriting.

“You probably can’t read my handwriting.”

She could but she allowed Michael to read it to her as she looked on. “Wait!”

Michael said as he sat up and reached Lisa a glass of wine from the side of the bed and grabbed his glass as well. It was nonalcoholic wine since Lisa’s doctor had told her that even drinking wine could hinder her chances of getting pregnant.

Lisa nestled her body next to Michael’s body against the headboard and Michael read the card. “Lisa, I looked through 10 or more cards that said “To My Wife” or “For My Wife” and none of the words said exactly what I needed them to say. So here goes. Lisa I love you more than any card can express. I don’t say it as much as I feel it. I don’t call you as much as I think about you. I don’t kiss you as much as I should. I don’t hold you as much as you need me to. I don’t make love to you as much as we used to. But know this no matter what happens, I’m happy that you are my wife and I’m telling you I’m not going nowhere even if it’s just me and you together forever.

You’re the perfect woman for me.”

Lisa’s eyes filled with tears. “Oh, Michael”. She knew Michael’s words no matter what happens was a reference to the fact that she had not been able to get pregnant and his words even if it’s just me and you together forever made it sound like he was giving up on the idea that it would ever happen.

Michael brushed the lone tear that escaped from the well of one of Lisa’s eye.

He knew that Lisa had been stressing over not having a baby. He held his glass up and said, “Here’s to my wife.

My Love, my life. To our life together. To what may or may never happen we will cherish forever.”

They tipped their wine glasses together and sipped their wine.

Lisa was so overcome with emotions

she only took one sip and couldn’t get any words out of her mouth. The man looking into her eyes deserve to know truth about the possible reason she hasn’t gotten pregnant after trying for the last two years. She wanted to bring everything out in the open because at this very moment she felt he would forgive her and understand. The doctor had told Lisa that stress could also be a factor in conceiving. Her husband wanted a son and she was the reason he didn’t have one was enough to stress her. She could only hope that Michael meant that he wasn’t going anywhere. “Would he feel the same if he knew the truth”, Lisa thought to herself. “What if he didn’t?”

Lisa dismissed the thought of confessing. If she could conceive tonight, the secret she’d kept from Michael for all these years wouldn’t ever, ever, have to be exposed.

Michael was happy about tonight because it seemed like tonight would bring the passion back into their lovemaking that they once shared without having thoughts of trying to conceive. He was ashamed of himself for sneaking out of the room without telling her he was leaving and staying away knowing she was probably wondering where he had run off to. Michael could beat himself for having to lie to Lisa about where he’d gone when he left the room.

He had only told her half the truth. It was true that he had gone to the business center to use the computer. But when the security on the computer wouldn't allow him to get to the website he needed, he didn’t stay long because checking his email was nowhere on his mind. It was true that Michael had seen Veronica but he had never stepped a foot inside the bar for a drink. Guilt was taking a toll on him. Michael couldn’t believe that he would stoop that low to do what he did. “What in the hell was I thinking. Why tonight of all nights while my wife was inside our hotel room waiting to be with me. What if she had come looking for me and I wasn’t getting ice, in the business or at the bar?”

No matter how hard he was trying, he couldn’t get his mind to focus on Lisa. In his mind he blamed Lisa. He knew it wasn’t right to blame her but he did because for the past six months Lisa only had sex with him with one thought in her mind…Getting pregnant. How could he blame her? It was for him that she was so adamant about getting pregnant. There was nothing Lisa wouldn’t do to try to give him the son he wanted. For that reason his heart ached for what he was doing without her knowledge every chance he got.

Tonight he wanted Lisa. He wanted him and Lisa to make love to each other

like they used to with the same passion they had. He wanted his lustful thoughts and feelings to be towards his wife. He wanted his wife to block out the images of all the other women that were stuck in his head. He took Lisa’s glass from her hands and placed both glasses on the nightstand.

“Lisa, let tonight be just about me and you nothing else.” He kissed Lisa deeply.

By the kiss, she understood exactly what he meant but conceiving was still the first and foremost thing on her mind.

When she turned over on her back he knew she just didn’t get it and it was about to be the same ole same ole let’s conceive a baby sex night complete with step by step, play by play orders from the doctor.

Lisa sensed Michael’s reluctance to make love to her as she had noticed for the past several months. She had begun to wonder if he was falling out of love with her because of her inability to get pregnant. There were days Michael even used the ‘Not tonight dear, I have a headache’ excuse. Some nights he wouldn’t come to bed until the wee hours of the morning. Some days she wondered if Michael was having an affair. Since the day they got married their sex life was enjoyable and envied by the close friends she trusted and shared the information with during their girl nights out. Except for the last several months.

Lisa brought Michael’s mouth to her breast.

Michael was already feeling the passion radiating between them as they touched and held each other. She was acting like the old Lisa. The before the obsession to get pregnant Lisa. The Lisa he missed. Lately she would only allow Michael to make love to her in the missionary position as her doctor and her internet research instructed. She wasn’t interested in foreplay other than ‘Come on Michael let’s try now or Michael it’s time now.’ If you consider that foreplay.

The way Michael was responding to Lisa’s kisses, she knew her husband could put a baby in her tonight. If her husband needed passion tonight to get her pregnant, that’s exactly what he would get.

Lisa kissed Michael on his neck and collarbone as she straddled his body.

Michael loved the look of Lisa’s slender body. Even by candlelight he could still see her caramel colored skin. He released her hair from the bobby pin she used to pen it up. Her curls fell past her shoulders.

Michael played in her hair as she kissed his neck and chest.

The way Michael was allowing her to do whatever she wanted to his body, she knew he loved the way she was making him feel. “Oh Michael”. Lisa had quickly forgotten about making a baby.

When Michael decided to turn Lisa over to her back all he wanted to do was pleasure his wife. Lisa was given to him by God and between them there was nothing they couldn’t experience or experiment with. And tonight was just like old times complete with experiments.

After Michael had fallen asleep, Lisa stayed awake and watched Michael’s chest rise and fall as he slept. Lisa didn’t think she could be any happier than she was right at this moment as she lay naked on the pillow next to Michael.

Lisa giggled to herself quietly to keep from waking Michael as she thought how sticky from the whipped cream they would be in the morning.

She silently prayed, “Lord, please let that have worked. We need our son to make our lives complete.” After the way they made love there was no way she could not have gotten pregnant tonight.

Spencer and Octavia “How could you embarrass me like that in front of all our friends?!” Spencer shouted.

“Me? How could I embarrass you?!

No, Spencer Bridgewater! I was the one embarrassed!

Spencer knew when Octavia called his whole name it was about to be a long night. Even though they argued all the way home from birthday party, he knew she was not ready to end this argument.

“Spencer, I asked you all night, even begged you and you kept saying maybe later.” But I knew, later would never come. Just like always, you would eventually say you were tired and ready to come home before you would”.

Octavia was furious. Her voice trembled as she spoke. That’s one thing about herself she hated. When she really got angry, her voice trembled and tears would eventually fall. It made her feel weak and she could never finish getting her point across when that happened.

But tonight, Spencer was not getting off that easily.

“Baby, I told you I didn’t want to go anyway. I’ve been telling you that since we were invited. I even suggested that you go without me but you insisted.”

Spencer’s voice was calmer now as he tried to defuse this argument before it got any worse.

“And that’s exactly how you acted Spence… like you really didn’t want to be there!”

“We shouldn’t have gone. Every time

we go around Mike and Lisa, we end up arguing.” Spencer threw back.

“Don’t you dare blame them! They have nothing to do with this! Our arguments are because of your actions and yours alone! It was Mike’s birthday party. Why wouldn’t we be there? I don’t understand you. Mike is your best friend or should I say he was before you made your decision to become whoever you claim to be these days. I don’t understand why you didn’t want to go.

We go to his party every year.”

“Yep, and every year we argue just like we’re doing now.” Spencer said between clinched teeth.

“What’s wrong with having a good time? It’s not like they invite you to clubs and bars. You can hang around people and not do the things they do , you know?”

We are young and financially able to enjoy our lives. But no, you want to stay cooped up in this house or always at church.”

Octavia knew that was not the truth.

They actually did plenty of enjoyable things together. They often went out of town. Still mostly for church engagements but Spencer always made sure they spent a least one day together just the two of them while they were away. She had to admit the life he provided for her was envied by most of her friends.

Spencer knew this argument would somehow work its way towards him and the church as it most times did. “And what’s wrong with being in the church?”

Octavia took a deep breath. She also knew bringing up his dedication to church and serving the Lord will bring on a long sermon she’d heard many times before. She quickly cut off whatever words he was about to say. “Look Spencer. All I asked you to do was to dance with me like all the other husbands were doing with their wives. Like we used to dance before. It’s something I enjoy” “I am a minister, Octavia, and you are a minister’s wife for heaven’s sake.

We are not like all the other husbands and wives. They are not like us.”

“Well, listen to you, holier than thou, Minister Spencer Bridgewater.

Just because they are not ministers doesn’t mean they are not like us. They are still Christians. They just like old school music.

It’s not a sin to enjoy music, is it? Or did you find a scripture that you have misinterpreted to back up your feelings about it.”

“What would it look like if people see us dancing to that kind of music and you gyrating around like you did some… heck I don’t even want to even say…”

Again Octavia cut Spencer off.

“Spencer I danced three times tonight

and those were line dances. I could have been on the floor doing the Macarena or the Hokey Pokey, and you would have said I looked like I was pole dancing.

God, Spencer is there any part of the Spencer that I fell in love with still inside of you! The bible talks about your kind, Minister Spencer… Too holy for earthly good. And this is not about people seeing us. I’ve asked you to dance with me here at home and you refused that too. Our last anniversary I went out of my way to make it special. Even brought the T.D. Jakes love songs CD and you still didn’t want to dance with me. Don’t you understand? I want to be held by my loving husband and dancing in his arms.

To me that’s romantic.”

“To tell you the truth you are starting to act more like them.” At the moment the words came from his lips he knew it wasn’t right thing to say. He knew he had just hurt her. He loved his wife with all that he had in him and hurting her was the last thing he wanted to do. He tried to apologize before she spoke.

“Hmm, I guess I am, Spencer.

Because I want to dance with my husband now you disapprove of the way I’m acting. I certainly didn’t sign up for this boring life of a minster’s wife.”

“Boring? You’re saying the life you live with me as a minister’s wife is boring just because I don’t want to dance to that kind of music?”

“Yes Spencer, just as boring as our, dull and nonspontaneous sex life.”

Without any regret for what she had said, Octavia went into their bedroom and just before the door slammed behind her, Spencer was almost positive that he heard her say, “What you won’t do someone else can and will be glad to do.”

...to be continued in the next issue…

THE Karen Gardner-Alexander

Walking

By VT Willi Slowly I am walking.

My tears have wet my collar and as the wind blows.

The only thing that comes from sex with no love is the feeling of being used.

I am full of pain but I am full of hope.

I am full of mistakes but I am full of hope.

I kept walking trying to find relief. I kept walking even when the blood flowed I am full of hurt but I am full of hope. from my feet. I kept walking when the sun set a thousand times all around me.

I am full of tears but I am full of hope.

I am still walking.

I am full of stress but I am full of hope.

I am walking; I am trying to be break free.

I am cold.

I am walking through the mess that I have made. Every now and again I stump my toe on a lie, or a promise that I have told or broken.

The chards of all of my creations cut my hands as I try to pick them up.

No hope, that is what I felt only a few minutes ago; yet, I am still walking.

In my mind I was a queen, I was sly and cunning. I was a fairy and a saint. I was dainty but always complained. Never understood the potential of what I was to be. No one was ever good enough for me.

The grass is like razors, and I keep falling to my knees. Not by sight! No! Not by sight. I know; I know, that I have to believe.

I close my eyes and take each step then I In the distance I see a light. It dances am back on my knees. I hear them across the horizon like a whore on a enjoying life all around me.

Saturday night. Yet, I sense an innocence.

The red and yellow beams add color to So I am walking towards the light trying to my journey. make my life right.

I gave my body away so many times to beggars and thieves. I aided in my own deflowering. They gave me false hope, and made me feel sexy and free. When the sun arose, they had left me.

Then the earthquakes came and my life began to shake and rock. Everything fell down and my soul was lost. My character was slayed and my ego bruised.

I am repenting as I am walking; I am crying and I am walking.

I am praying and I am walking.

I am walking and talking to God. I am full sorrow but I am full of hope.

I am full of heartache but I am full of hope.

I am full of sin but I am full of hope.

I am walking; I cannot stop walking I have to make this right- I have to walk until the end. I cannot stop walking even if it means leaving all my family and friends.

Do not stop walking; always be walking; make the wrongs right. My path is straight and narrow and I have no room to turn around; I will keep walking as long as I can feel the ground.

The Family With The Broken Heart LaShona Mosby

They are leaving a family with a broken heart. A mother has one less child.

Children ages 1, 2, 4 and 6 are now fatherless. They won’t have a father to teach them to play football or to walk his daughter down the aisle on her wedding day.

When Corinthian’s life was senselessly taken, that was the end of new memories with him. The brotherly trio

Cover Story March 27th, 2014 was a day that transformed the lives of many. Things would never go back to the way that they were before. LaShona Mosby, a loving and God fearing woman, received a message that all three of her sons had been shot. Being paralyzed with disbelief, it took every bit of strength within her to rush to be with her children.

Carlton Robertson was 21. Corinthian Robertson was 23. Christopher Robertson was 26. So much hope and so much promise awaited these young men. In a time where we chant that ‘black lives matter”, obviously some of us have yet to receive that all inclusive message.

Corinthian had waged a bet with a friend over the San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat. Corinthian honored his one hundred dollar obligation but somehow, an argument ensued and three brothers were shot down in the street like animals at 3 o’clock in the afternoon.

This tragedy is beyond senseless. As LaShona Mosby rushed to the hospital after first arriving on the scene, all she could do was pray. Prayer was nothing new for LaShona. She prayed for her sons daily. She was aware of the evil and misgivings in the streets. She had always done whatever she could to keep her children safe. The three brothers were rushed in the same ambulance to the hospital. Carlton seemed to be in shock as she rushed to be by his side.

Christopher, the eldest, simply said, “I prayed Mama.” LaShona couldn’t understand why the doctors hadn’t brought her to see her middle son, Corinthian. After she was taken into the family room, she was given the devastating news.

Corinthian had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and two additional gunshot wounds in his upper torso. The life drained from LaShona as she was in shock, disbelief but still holding on to the word of God. The shooting happened on March 27, 2014. April 1st is LaShona’s birthday.

Corinthian was buried on April 2nd and his daughter’s birthday is on April 3rd.

Birthdays are forever bittersweet. Young people don’t seem to understand that they aren’t just killing that one person.

time that matters. LaShona is making the most of every moment and through it all, their hearts may be broken but they will rise again to face another day.

Felicia Livingstone

Reflections of a Grieving Daughter Jade Poitier Cover Story Grief at any age is piercing. For those who have ever buried a parent understand just how much the grief process can take toll on the soul. There are so many mixed emotions that follow losing a parent. For me the experience was welcoming in a sense that my mother would no longer suffer in her natural body and would have the opportunity to no longer experience the issues of this world. On the other hand I was losing some one whom I had loved, argued, and shed tears over and with. I welcomed faith to control my response toward her transition. Sure I had this so I

had been reduced to a duo and many friends and family are left behind to grieve and for what?

LaShona’s pain and grief is still fresh. There are still sleepless nights and moments of being there but not really being there. A year isn’t enough time to grieve. You mourn instantly but grief is a process.

Thankfully, a grief support group has helped this amazingly strong woman. She is now an advocate against gun violence and she has taken her power back through speaking engagements and by sharing her story. LaShona has learned to be patient with herself in the grieving process. This has not shaken her faith. She is stronger than ever. Every day isn’t a day where she feels brave. Some days she has to cry but she knows that with God’s help, life must go on. I asked LaShona what she wanted people to understand about her experience. She said, “It isn’t just about the one you kill.

When you take someone away, you leave a family with a broken heart.”

LaShona’s hope is that no other mother will ever have to experience her pain. No more families with broken hearts. Life will go on for LaShona and her beautiful sons but it will never be the same again. She takes great comfort in knowing that Corinthian is in a much better place. Time heals nothing. It’s what you do with that

told myself. This happens you know people die all of the time. This is what I tried to convince myself of. Some would challenge me to confront my feelings but not me I would take this head on. I had being trained for battle and had faced my share of uncertainties in life so

I had this. To be quite honest I had made it through the first two months of having accepted her death. I saw her lying there which made it real. I went to approve her body so it was real. I along with my family worked on her obituary so I had this. I was sad still I was good.

Then one night at home the inevitable happened I had a major break down.

This was not your usual break down. I was at work making my patient rounds when and then it hit me my mother had gone to be with the Lord. I cracked up and ran where no one would see me.

Inside it felt as if someone had just told me she had left this earth. To confirm I called my cousin Tasha and begged her not to judge me on what I was about to ask her. What I asked was what I thought and understood to be an absolute idiot question. I asked her if we had really buried her. Was she really dead and without judgment she responded with “yes Jade we did leave her body and she is gone”, then she began to cry with me over the phone.

All of my walls were now broken and once we hung up I screamed to God. It was the scariest thing for me to admit. I had begun to my grief process.

Although I believe in God I was angry but not for a long time. I was sad and that moment opened the door to many more breakdowns. Some were so bad it I were to pen it someone would agree to have me committed into a mental institution.

She had been gone for over a year now but the worse things get in this world and the more I lean about faith I welcome her transition with joy in my heart. You see I believe death should be the true life. I have reason to believe my mother is in heaven. God allowed us to make peace with one another. I am talking true peace. Just before she died while she could hear me I asked if she had given her life to God and her response was yes. I told her about true repentance and to not allow anything to keep her from receiving her new body. For those who knew my mom’s story would agree that she deserved a new start. As for me living without her is a day by day thing. Her spirit is so strong in my daughter that I know she is watching over us. My mother Linder Ruth (Allen) Carpenter is now resting with the Lord and I like so many who have buried a parent must find rest in his hands until we all meet again.

"When the enemy was trying to hurt me, Lord you used his attacks to help me" Jade Poitier

Gas In The Car Darlene Reese Cover Story It was a morning not unlike any other.

Darlene Reese prayed and asked God for protection, as she always does before starting out in her vehicle. She was taking her son to work at six o’clock in the morning. Aaron Rogers, age 24, was happy to be employed.

He was a dedicated and disciplined soul. His sister Jessica George, age 17, had just graduated high school the month before.

Her beautiful life was filled with hope and promise. Their four year old little brother, Rashar Reese was also in the car. There was nothing atypical about this routine scene. It was something the family had done countless times before. Suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, their vehicle was struck by another car. A twenty one year old driver had run the red light.

Aaron never made it to work that morning. Jessica would never go to college or have a family of her own. They died in the crash. Their mother, Darlene, and their baby brother, Rashar, survived.

I was in awe of Darlene Reese’s faith and strength. I asked her what she most wanted people to know about the accident. Ms. Reese said that it doesn’t really matter at this point what happened or how it happened. It was a twenty one year old kid who didn’t intentionally set out to kill two of her children on that early morning. She understands that the young man must find a way to live with himself and that he has suffered too. She says that the greater lesson is in forgiveness.

The accident happened twelve years ago but in order to heal, Ms. Reese had to learn to release the pain. She did that by leaning on God. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord and God will give you a peace that surpasses all understanding. I will comfort you in your time of need and I will give you joy unspeakable joy.” As Ms. Reese spoke those words, something resonated within me. This woman wasn’t just talking the talk, she was walking the walk. I could feel her joyous energy, even though she had lost much and I too understood that only God could do that.

“A lot of things that happen to us, isn’t about us. Just like when Jesus died on the cross, that wasn’t for his sin but that was for our sins. If the enemy can’t get to us, he’ll try to get to the closest thing to us.”

This accident is greater than the obvious a loss. It has given Ms. Reese a platform to encourage and uplift other parents

who have lost a child. “If you grieve without hope, you stand against God but if you grieve with hope, the time will come when you will see them again. She said to hold on to the pain, it would have consumed her. She told the Lord that she couldn’t deal with it and that all she knew to do was to hold on to what God said that he would do for her. Ms. Reese released her children back to God and thanked God for blessing her and entrusting her with the twenty four and seventeen years that she was blessed to have her babies.

Jessica was smart. She was God fearing and loved to run track. She graduated from Belaire High School only a month before the tragic accident. She was accepted at McNeese State University.

Aaron was smart, funny, witty and kind.

He was a very respectable young man who was polite and a hard worker. The loss will be felt forever. The family has learned to go on through forgiveness. Ms. Reese has taken the lead in reminding her family that they can’t be angry with God. “If you never put gas in the car, the car isn’t going to go anywhere. You’re angry because you can’t start your car.

When you put gas in it, you can go anywhere you want. It’s like having transportation but you still can’t move.

You got to put gas in the car so you can move again and for me, the gas came in the form of forgiveness and I’m free.”

Ms. Reese didn’t want to relive the particulars. That would have only brought up useless grief and pain. However, her message is that we can’t allow grief to consume us. There is power in forgiveness and power in the word of God. If you’re feeling low, your tank may be empty. If you are down and stuck in the rut of grief, empty yourself and put the gas in the car.

Alcohol can’t fix it. Depression can’t fix it.

Drugs can’t fix it. Fill the vessel of your being with forgiveness and keep on moving.

Felicia Livingstone

Getting to Alright Verna L. Gordon Cover Story Losing one’s mother in most cases is a tragic event. Being an only child and losing your mother intensifies the tragedy.

Being a daughter, an only child of a single mother can transform that tragedy into a catastrophe.

March 6, 2014 will always be remembered by me as the day I lost my very first best friend. On that chilly Thursday morning as I prepared to take my then 15yr old son to school, as I entered her room to retrieve my car keys that I’d left on her dresser the night before, I discovered that the Death Angle had picked up my mom for her divine appointment with her Eternal Father. The days, month, and year following her departure provided much awareness, revelation and the beginning of a long arduous healing process that I am sure will continue until I am to face my own heavenly meeting.

Psychologists have identified 7 Stages of grief. While I believe that in the past year I have encountered the majority of them, being the rebel that I am, I really feel that I have actually thrown the rest of them out of the window. Immediately following my mother’s transition, I trekked to the library in search of books on grief and loss. I was determined to work through this in the best way possible. Picking out three titles that I felt were best suited for my situation, I checked them out, threw them in my car and started out on a somewhat clinical journey of healing. The books stayed in my back seat until it was time to return them. I quickly discovered that my healing would come about through selfdiscovery, remembered prayers, trial and error, and a move of God. Marian Reed Gordon possessed a quiet confidence that rivaled a World Poker Champion. Her carriage was unassuming and her manner was humble. Mom loved fiercely and never allowed her internal struggles to break through her gentle exterior. In spite of her combined diagnosis of Congestive Heart Failure, End -Stage Renal Failure, and Type 2 Diabetes, Mom pressed on with the love for her family always at the forefront.

During the summer of 2013, I was faced with the reality of not only losing one parent, but both. My mother endured a 22 Day hospital stay as a result of complications from her illnesses. While hospitalized, she stayed in the Intensive

Care Unit for 3 days following a near fatal cardiac episode. Months prior to Mom’s hospitalization and during this difficult period, my father who was on the West Coast at the time was contending with a psychological break. During his illness, there were moments that I had no idea where he was and the only information I could obtain came from random hospitals or police departments throughout California and Nevada.

I was at wits end worrying about both parent’s health and neither was available to help me through it. My lowest point during this time came the Saturday evening of my mom’s ICU stay. I was advised by my family to take my son Brandon home and try to rest. On the way home, we stopped to pick up some food that I had ordered before leaving

the hospital. Having traveled to and from the hospital for a number of days, continuing to work as a hairstylist, and caring for my son, I was too exhausted to even go inside the restaurant to get the food so I sent Brandon in. While sitting alone in my car Break Every Chain by Tasha Cobb came on the radio. With that opening verse, the floodgate that held back my tears broke. In that moment, I released all of the pain, fear, and confusion that had built up inside.

Through the tears, I managed pray a prayer that to this day, the thought of my words shakes me to my core. I prayed for both of my parent’s healing, but I also included a most special and specific petition: “Lord, please keep Momma here long enough for her to know that B and I will be alright.” By the time Brandon returned to the car, I was in a trance and all he could do is hold my hand and tell me “Maw gon’ be alright.” This was the first of many instances that Brandon has transformed from my one and only baby

to a strong admirable young man.

In the days following, my mom recovered and was subsequently released with considerable after-care instructions.

However, with all of her health restrictions, Mom didn’t miss a beat. We were able to navigate the summer, fall and Holiday Season with little incident. There were a few times that we had some hospital runs, but Mom pulled through and came out like a champ. During this time, she even found the strength to help me deal with securing help for my father. By November 2013, my dad was in recovery and had relocated to his childhood home which was in relatively close driving distance for me. I felt as my mom would say, “I could move on a little further.”

As we welcomed 2014, Mom and I were making plans for all of the things we were going to do together in the coming year.

With Brandon excelling in music, we were looking forward to making the trips to his concerts in and out of state. Mom was excited to spend time with her sisters and was even considering taking some of her nieces and nephews up on their offers to send for her to visit. I was in awe of how much life this awesome woman displayed considering how ill she was months before. She was getting on with life.

In early February, Mom and I traveled to Hattiesburg, MS to attend a concert Brandon was performing in for All-South Honor Band Weekend. We took a leisurely drive, stopping in Biloxi to visit close family friends. Upon our arrival to our hotel in Hattiesburg, we basically turned it into a Mother/Daughter sl umber party complete with bad movies and IHOP. I remember it being one of the best times I have ever spent with her…just the two of us. The smile she gave me when she woke up the next morning made my heart full. That morning, we did something together that we had never done before outside of a church setting…we read scripture, Our Daily Bread, and prayed.

These moments sent me over the moon and I was just so happy to have Mom in my life.

In the weeks following that trip, I accompanied Mom to several doctor visits. All of her doctors were impressed with her progress. Both her cardiologist and her nephrologist basically said that it was God keeping her.

As I now look back on that time, I can almost see that preparations were being made for Mom’s transition. From her not allowing me to buy her a pair of shoes, to her kissing everyone goodbye when we left for New Orleans the weekend before she passed,to what I was told was the most spirit-filled nursing home bible study that took place the day before her death.

Mom was saying goodbye and I just didn’t know it.

After that fateful morning of Mom’s transition, I went into go mode. I knew that I had to be strong for Brandon and I had to keep it moving. During that time, I did not take the customary bereavement leave from work. Being an independent contractor hairstylist, I simply couldn’t afford to. All I could hear was Mom saying, “You have to take care of that little boy.” So in my naiveté regarding grief and loss, I immersed myself in my work.

In hindsight, I see that maybe it wasn’t the best way to deal with what I was feeling, but it was all I knew.

Nearly a week after laying my mother to rest, following an unprofessional outburst, I was asked to leave the salon where I worked. I acknowledge that there was tension prior to my mom’s passing and that my most recent behavior was the straw that broke the camel’s back. I felt as if the world had already crashed down on me with the loss of my mother and now being asked to relocate professionally was the rug being pulled out from under me. As I tried to process all that had happened, I removed myself from the situation to regain my footing. In that time alone, I was able to focus on my options and arrive at a decision that has since proven to be the best for me professionally as well as personally. I discovered that there are times when you can be too stubborn to make a move for the better. It is in those moments that God will either change you for the situation, change the situation, or take you out of the situation. He took me out, and for that I am grateful.

In the months immediately following mom’s death, I became a master in faking it until I made it. When people would ask me how I’m doing, I would smile and say I’m making it. The thing about this phase for me was that I was far from making it. I was okay until someone asked if I was okay. Having to answer that question meant that I had to think about my feelings. So no, I wasn’t okay. Along with throwing myself into my passion for hair, I also took on additional work, assumed more responsibility with ReBirth Magazine, and enrolled in school to pursue a degree in Marketing. I would find any and everything to do to keep my mind off of what I was feeling and to stay away from the home that my mother and I shared along with my aunt. Along with raising a teenaged son, I had a full plate.

It was my belief that if I stayed busy, I wouldn’t have time to grieve.

My breaking point came in September 2013. After spending nearly two months caring for a dear friend that had become

gravely ill, I had reached the end of my “fake” self and the layers of my “making it” façade were stripped away. That same friend that I sat watch over while she was ill encouraged me to seek help from my doctor. Having been diagnosed with Anxiety Disorder two years prior, I assumed that the grief just intensified it. In speaking candidly with my doctor, it was discovered that I was suffering with mild depression. With that discovery, I was prescribed an anti-depressant. The medicine therapy helped slightly, but the pain would resurface and the wounds were deep.

Looking at myself in the mirror was and remains one of the hardest things for me to do. I see my mom in my reflection and my heart breaks all over again. Some mornings it takes everything I have in me to get out of bed but I know it has to be done because I have to “take care of that little boy.” Family gatherings are the hardest. Being around the people that loved my mom, seeing mothers and daughters interacting, it is like a knife being turned in one of my deepest wounds. However, I know that giving up is not an option.

In spite of the tremendous pain and loss, I am aware of the angels my mom left here on earth to care for me. My son Brandon had been the leader of that Angel Brigade. Just seeing his strength from the moment he realized that Mom was gone has me in awe. On the morning of Mom’s transition, Brandon saw what had happened, shed his tears and went on to school. He too has days when the pain is obvious, but he takes the time to talk about it recalling his best memories of his “Maw” and moves on with his teenage life. I am still so proud of him and believe that I have a lot to learn from him.

Helping me to navigate life in the face of one of the greatest losses I’ve ever known is one of my best friends, Lana. She held me when I couldn’t hold myself. Lana has been my shoulder and my sounding board and has stepped in on many occasions to help pull me out of my darkness. She along with extended family and friends have been my support system when I felt that my support ended with Mom. In spite of his own struggles, my father has also been there for me in his own way. His calls and texts are bittersweet just knowing that in his time of weakness, he is being strong for me.

The African Proverb states that it takes a village to raise a child, this experience has shown me that it also take a village to help heal an aching heart. I am so grateful for that village that is in the form of my spiritual family at True Light Worship Center in Gonzales, La. My spiritual parents, Pastor Adrien Claiborne along with his wife First Lady Connie Claiborne

have embraced me in all of my pain. A powerful word from pastor, a hug from Sister Connie, even a smile from any one of the members assures me that I am not alone.

Mom took great care of Brandon and I. This is evident in something that happened just days before her passing.

An encounter between Mom and one of my dear clients would be the thing that upon learning about it gives me chills but also lets me know that Mom made sure that her babies were cared for. In a meeting the Friday before Mom’s passing, she spoke with my client Ms. Norma Dukes. Ms. Norma explained to me that on that day my mother embraced her with love, joked about how Ms. Norma had taken over her children, and even teased her about saying that Brandon was her grandson. At the end of the meeting, Mom embraced Ms. Norma one last time and thanked her for taking care of Brandon and I. That was the last time the two were to see one another.

A little over a year after my mom’s transition, the wounds are still relatively fresh. I still have nights where I cry, days I don’t want to face, and looking in the mirror is still heartbreaking, but I’m still here. With the closing of one chapter of my life, a new one has opened and I’ve discovered that at the threshold many opportunities lie before both Brandon and I. When Mom left, I thought that I wouldn’t be able to make it without her. I now realize that I will never be without her and that her spirit is guiding me through the many doors that are opening for me. Yes, I still grieve. But hidden in that grief is the knowledge that the prayer I prayed on that Saturday in June of 2013 has been answered…Brandon and I will be alright.

Verna L. Gordon

The Arts and Entertainment Section of ReBirth Magazine is a view into the world of art, music and literature. My first thought was to introduce each reader to the unknown artist through the eyes of the contributor. In this issue you will be motivated to embrace the unknown artist and their craft. Our travel contributor will guide you to the far corners of world within each paragraph. We will also provide you the reader with the knowledge of the venues and that house the beauty of Arts & Entertainment. The ultimate goal is to expand your mind far beyond the walls of what you have known Art and entertainment to be. “Arts is the elimination of the unnecessary”- Pablo Picasso Monroe Xavier Arts and Entertainment Editor

managers Tracy Smith and Paxton Smith!

“We all strive so hard to be different; that With such a hectic traveling schedule, we all end up looking the same.” one may wonder what does the 22 year Young, Artistic and on Fire for Christ.... old do in her free time.

Washington mentioned that when she is not in the When you think of the phrase “outside of studio or performing she hangs out with the box” Tometrya Washington definitely her friends and do some of the things that comes to mind. A talented and gifted typical young people her age do such as songwriter, singer, and musician her style bowling, eating pizza and not to mention is not that of a typical artist. Hailing from visiting her family in Houma. an entire family of singers, Tometrya Washington was destined for greatness. So what inspires the proclaimed love child Born in New Orleans… Raised in Houma… of NeoSoul and Gospel? Washington and Residing right here in the capital city notes that her musical inspirations are of Baton Rouge Louisiana where she more of a "what" than a "who" and that attends Southern University, Tometrya’s her musical inspirations comes from her sound can be classified as soothing with a struggles, her past, and storytelling. As we touch of NeoSoul. all know the music industry is known for having an appetite for self-destruction. In Tometrya began singing at the young the industry there are advantages and age of four years old; however it was not disadvantages. Tometrya reflects on her until she was 17 years old that she knew struggles and triumphs citing that finding she could actually sing.

Although genuine people has been her biggest Washington has officially only been in the struggle in the music industry. She music industry for two years, she has had continued by stating people will try to use major exposure to the culture of the you and change you. But where there business as a result of her father being a are struggles there are also triumphs and musician. She would accompany her she identifies her triumphs as being father on many of his performances as blessed to find genuine people who has she served as his drummer. the same vision as she does all while staying true to herself. Not to mention At 22 years of age Tometrya has having youth tell her how much her music performed, which is not only inclusive of has helped change their lives. singing but she raps as well, at various churches in the Baton Rouge and Although the Tometrya is a one woman surrounding areas. Her talents have taken show, she highlights a portion of her her outside of Louisiana as she has success to her crew better known as her “ performed in the Mississippi and Florida team.” She goes in by elaborating that areas. Not only has Tometrya’s talents her team first and foremost motivates taken her outside of Louisiana, she has her.

Sending BIG SHOUT-OUTS to opened up for Christian artist such as Lisa Keyondra Wolf -media marketing, Destiny McClendon and Poet Jackie Hill.

Taylor- stylist, Gabe Schultz- producer and

Washington passionately proclaims that every single day that she wakes up she breathes music. Noting that the atmosphere has to be one where she is free to think undisrupted preferring to be alone so that she can hear the voice of God and sort out her thoughts. Sitting outside barefoot in city of Houma with her guitar and looking at the bayou, trees, and sky is her ideal atmosphere.

Got Electric going up on Tuesdays is where we can find the love child of NeoSoul and Gospel performing poetry in downtown Baton Rouge. With a plethora of creativity, one would wonder what does she listen to. Tometyra feels that she cant reach the entire world with the gift that God has given her by limiting herself.

So she listens, she researches, and she learns all with the intent of having balance.

“ALWAYS follow your dreams. Don't let people change but don't be afraid to try new things. Be ready to learn and lose sometimes. Be sure in the direction you want to go in and stay true to yourself.”

Tometyra Washington is one of Louisiana’s best kept secrets. Her style and sound is so unique that she exceeds the box that most artists are put into. Whom God calls He equips and Ms. Washington is definitely equipped with charisma, character, and most of all a career in this ever so changing industry. Her gift has and is definitely making room for her!

For booking information you can contact her managers Tracy Smith and Praxton Smith tometryabooking@gmail.com.

Follow her on social media Twitter: @tometrya_w Instagram: tlyric_crwnmg Youtube: Tometrya Washington for her latest project Love Experience and on www.soundcloud.

Yalanda Brown