SARAH MAGAZINE HOLIDAY ISSUE 2023 by Sheree Carradine

Adam Who Are You?

Also Featuring… Our Y.P.W.P.

From the desk of the CEO

Welcome to the second edition of Sarah magazine! Our rebirth edition got a lot of attention, Thank you all for your support. Our first edition was about surviving loss of a loved one. The featured stories that were shared, ministered to so many people. I thank God that He used Donzella Berry and Antwan Beaden-Leach to share their stories. It wasn’t easy, but they did it. Thank you, ladies, for being so courageous.

Here we are in the month of November. Can you believe how time just flew by! In a few months we will be celebrating a new year. This time of year, can be very depressing for some people. Due to loss, such as; jobs, loved ones, marriages split up, your children, the right man or women didn’t come into your life, and the list goes on. While approaching the end of the year, people began to feel anxious and depressed. The anxiousness is felt because you think that you did not reach your goals in 2023, and now you’re stressing trying to make it happen before the year ends. Depression- There are so many reasons why this time of year is so hard. 1. You might have lost someone very dear to you. 2. You can’t buy gifts for your children due to financial problems. 3. you’re far away from family, or maybe you have no family.

4. lastly, when all the things God showed you, didn’t come to pass. So you think. You made your list, prayed your prayers, and stood in faith. Here it is coming up on the end of the year and nothing happened like you thought. I can speak on being anxious and depression. Just a few months ago, it tried to overtake me. Feelings like…I didn’t reach my goal for 2023, or thinking that what God showed me wasn’t going to happen. He led me to the book of Habakkuk in the bible. I am sure we are all familiar with chapter 2:2-3. 2 And the LORD answered me: "Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. 3 For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end--it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay. (ESV) As we approach the holidays, don’t get so caught up on what didn’t happen in 2023. God said that what He promised will come to pass. The word for you, and I am speaking to myself, is to WAIT! If God said it then wait for it. He is a man that cannot and has never lied to us. Believe it’s going to happen, and it will. When you take your mind off it, it will fall right into your lap…so to speak. Which leads right into our featured story, 27 DAYS TO FOREVER! This story will make you smile and it also shows

that when you least expect that special someone to come into your life, they show up. Whatever you’re waiting for, relax and let God handle it! In closing, I would like to thank our new contributors to Sarah magazine and also those who support this magazine with their gifts and talents. In this issue, we have a lot of great articles, holiday recipes, Christmas gift ideas, and you are going to meet our Featured Y.P.W.P. who is a Kidpreneur! Make sure you read his story and support him in his business. I thank God for all of my Y.P.W. P’s that take time to share their challenges as young Christians. Thank you so much, you could be doing other things but you chose to write for the magazine. I appreciate you! So, as we prepare for the holidays, remember not to get caught up with reaching your goals, shopping and buying gifts. Thank God for what you have and know that He is going to bless you with more. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas! Jesus Is The Reason For The Season! See you next year! God bless, Minister Sheree Carradine Creator/Chief Editor mysarahmagazine@gmail.com www.personalizeitsc2.com

ARTICLES: Encouragement-Antwan Beaden-Leach………………………………………………………..15 How Long O Lord?- Dr. Calvinia Williams, D.D …………………………………18 If God Said It- Maisha Y. Tate…………………………………………………………………27 The Faith That Takes- Coach Charles Nash…………………………………………30 Free 2 Serve- Keith and Mary Lou Norris………………………….………………………….37 ADAM: Who Are You?- Minister Kelvin Strozier…………………………………42 ISICS…………………………………………….……………………………………………..58 The Woman Of God – Evangelist Rosalind Harper……………...………………….76 I am home, when I am with God!-S Renee Guth, MA, RN…………………………………….79 Changing Our World, By Changing Ourselves- Bishop William O. Wills, Jr………84 Ministry Moments- Reverend Donzella Berry……………………………………………….…95

Beauty-Health-Fashion: Your Health Matters– Venita Freeman…………………………………………..…….22 Empowerment & Self Love/P.O.U.R. – Tiffany Nakatani……………………………………..89 Love In A Cup -Tiffany Nakatani………………………………………………………91

BOOKS/BUSINESS/SERVICS: WGR Tutoring and Counseling- Nadra Nash-Montgomery …………………...........................17 Eagles Wings Of Grace (EWOG)…………………………..............................................21 Palace of Beauty Styling Salon -Evangelist Rosalind Harper ……………………………...…..25 Divorce Botted Up-Gerald W. Smith Jr………………………………………………….29 Business Services for you…………………………………………………...…………………..45 Da Scentz Candles-Gerald W. Smith Jr…………………….………………………………..78 Let’s get personal…Personalized Ornaments-………………………………………..………...98 Book Publishing ……………………………………………………………………………88

FOOD: Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing-Antwan Beaden -Leach………………...……………………26 Pecan Pie Cake- Southern Living Magazine…………………………………………68 Glaze For Pork Roast-Antwan Beaden-Leach……………………………………………….…41 Sesame Chicken Wings-Southern Living Magazine…………………………………..57 Coconut Chocolate Cake-Southern Living Magazine…………………………………………..72 Spiral Glazed Ham-The Today Show…………………………………………………..82 Juicy Whole Turkey-Divas Can Cook…………………………………………………………..99

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY Anaij McCormick, Gabriel Nelson, Maisha Y. Tate, Keith and Mary Lou Norris, Coach Charles Nash, S Renee Guth……………………………………….8-14

OUR FEATURED STORIES: 27 DAYS TO FOREVER-The Poston’s Story …………………………..………… 60 KIDPRENEUR -Isaiah Garcia ………………………………………..…………………...…53

YOUTH- EDUCATION: Y.P.W.P. (Young People With Purpose)- Naomi Martin …………………………… 46 WGR Tutoring and Counseling- Nadra Nash-Montgomery …………………...........................17

If you have questions/comments for our contributors, please feel free to send them to mysarahmagzine@gmail.com or shereecarradine@yahoo.com

Note: We are a Christian based magazine but not limited to only Christians. BUT… we will not publish anything that is contrary to our beliefs, such as profanity or promotion of your sexual preferences.

Eph. 3:20

Anaij’s hobbies are movies, cooking, playing volleyball and watching volleyball. She will be joining up with Naomi Martin as one of the Co-Writers of Y.P.W.P.

Gabriel likes playing basketball and video games. Gabriel also enjoys watching YouTube with his younger sister Melody. He’s focused on studies in his sophomore year of high school and also volunteers at TCI (Tucson Church International). He will be joining up

with Naomi Martin as one of the Co-Writers of Y.P.W.P.

MAISHA Y. TATE, CO-FOUNDER TEAMTATE MINISTRIES

Maisha Y. Tate, born in Albuquerque, NM., June 25, 1979, was destined to change the world from birth. Born into a family of legacy of an Award-Winning Pastor and Father, Maisha’s dynamic leadership is only a glimpse of the destiny God ordained for her purpose. Maisha has over 20 years’ experience as an expert Preacher, Teacher, Prophetic Giant and Business Woman. She has served as an Associate Minister at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in Tucson, AZ for over a decade, was Youth Director for The Southern District Association of Arizona for two years, as well as a lead facilitator of A Women’s Retreat in Sedona, Arizona. Maisha is a spiritual mentor and liaison to Grammy Award Winning and Multi-Platinum Artist, and is the proud owner of her own media production company, Team Tate Productions, LLC. Maisha has been requested to speak at numerous women’s conferences in the region, and has literally been trailblazing with a future brighter than any influential powerhouse. She spent 4 years as a Mental Health Tech for the trauma unit of

adolescent teen girls, at Cottonwood De Tucson, one of the top 3 in the world, renown Rehabilitation Hospital/ Treatment Recovery Facilities. Maisha also graduated with a degree in Interior Design from The Art Institute of Tucson, and has worked in both residential and commercial design. In 2019, Maisha and her husband followed the call of God to move to Dallas, TX and plant a church. N.O.A.H. (Nation On A Hill) Church was launched in Easter of 2022. Due to external circumstances the church is not currently meeting and is set to relaunch in the near future. Maisha is married to Pastor Dr. Gregory J. Tate, and has 3 wonderful Sons, and a beautiful daughter. Her passion and mandate have always been to be a conduit, and blessing by utilizing the amazing gifts God favored her life with.

Mary Lou and Keith were lifelong Iowans until 5 years ago. Keith retired from the Iowa Department of Transportation and Mary Lou from office managing at a children's theatre. Then they began their life’s greatest adventure! The duo got rid of nearly all they owned and made their RV a home. They are now living a nomad’s life and loving it. The couple’s favorite part is being able to learn about people, cultures and places. Volunteering has always been a huge part of Keith and Mary Lou’s life. Consequently, they continue to search out organizations to which they can give their free time. The adventurers have a yearly winter gig in Arizona and switch it up during the summer months to escape the desert heat. The team enjoys sharing how they live the mobile life, what they’ve learned and how their volunteering has become their mission and most important part of the journey.

Charles Nash, affectionately known as Coach Nash. Born August 30th 1954, to parents Lillian and Billy Ray Nash in Dallas Texas. He grew up in Los Angeles, California. He is one of four siblings. Coach Nash attended the University of Arizona from 1973 to 1976. He graduated, with a degree in Business Administration, from the University of Arizona in 1976. Coach Nash later earned his Master’s in Education Administration, from National University. He was also, signed as an NFL football player for the Cleveland Browns and the Washington Red Skins…He played two years. He’s married and has two adult children and 8 grandchildren (7 boys and 1 girl). Coach began his career in Business Administration but always found himself after work, on some High School football field coaching & mentoring young men. Which, by the way is his passion. Before he retired, he was recruited by San Jose State as running back coach. While there, he coached college football for 14 years with head coaches Fitz Hill and Coach Dick Tomey! He currently resides in Arizona with his wife of 46years, 2 adult children and 8 grandchildren. Presently, he is having a great time coaching his younger five grandchildren in basketball and track. God has blessed Coach to minister and speak into the lives of many boys and men! During COVID, he successfully facilitated a Men’s group online with a morning and evening session for over a year, called “Understanding the Kingdom.” Many lives were impacted ...all glory to God! He has a voice (God uses) that speaks to Men, and they listen.

S Renee Guth, MA, RN Semi-retired

Former Nursing Supervisor for Nurse Family Partnership

Volunteer with Tucson Refugee Ministry

Encouragement

By Deacon Antwan Beaden-Leach Co-Editor, Co-Graphics 16

We are in a season where everything is mixed up: up is down, right is wrong, left is right…you get my point. People are confused about what is right in God’s eyes and what is right in their own eyes! We tend to look at things through our carnal lenses and we see what our experience has taught us. Sometimes, in that view, we create a situation where we find ourselves low and depressed. We ask God why? My editor suggested that we read Habakkuk 2:2: “Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it.”” After reading that one verse, I had to know more! Habakkuk was a prophet that was wondering why God permited injustice in Judah. Have you ever wondered why God permits the sin that we see every day? Why, when we try to live holy, are so many that do not? It is not for us to worry about what goes on around us! Be aware, but don’t worry! God’s plan for each of us has already been put in motion. What God’s plan for mankind collectively will be revealed in His time. What appears to be success in wickedness never satisfies the wicked! (paraphrased Habakkuk 2:5) If you had all of the money in the world, would you still want more? If you had

a top executive position, do you want to be higher, making more money? Or will you always be looking over your shoulders for people trying to steal it or dethrone you? If you read or see stories of people who won the lottery, they are miserable! People in high-powered positions are taking drugs or drinking alcohol just to relax and release the pressure! I know that there are times when we envy those who appear “successful”, but why? Is it because they have something that we don’t, or they are doing something that we can’t? STOP! God’s plan for each of us is as individual as we are! It is up to you to ask God what that plan is or what His vision is for you! This holiday season, let us change our direction of thinking and focus on what God wants for us. When we focus on Him, the worry goes away! What a release of a heavy burden! Be with people, family, and friends, that encourage one another. Be blessed by the fellowship that you have with them. Take stock in what you have, not material things, but the things that matter: God, family, a roof over your head, food in the pantry, gas for your car, your car payment, and other gifts that have been bestowed to you. You may not be rich by the world standard, but you are a rich Child of God! Be thankful because you are blessed!

Happy Holidays!

Habakkuk was a prophet in the seventh century, BC in Judah. The Prophet, asked God a question about the evil and wickedness, and how they were running rampant without laws, he began to ponder. How could God being just and everlasting allow Judah to sin. God answered him, by telling him that he was going to bring about the Babylonians to judge them for their sins. Habakkuk couldn’t believe what he was hearing from God.

The Babylonians were self-centered, evil, practiced paganism thieves wanting to conquer everything, make the poor work for free while they gain all the riches stolen by them, killing and buying off judges. Habakkuk asked a second question to God in chapter 2. God replied that Babylon was going to be used to discipline Judah, and it would only be used for a limited time. God insured

Habakkuk that the Babylonians would be next! War was everywhere. The Prophet was in the mist of turmoil, the Babylonians, the Chaldeans, Assyrians and the Egyptian’s. They were all surrounded in war. But oh my God had a plan! After researching and reading about this wonderful book of Habakkuk Are there any similarities in our world today?

There were Five Woes that are God’s response to Habakkuk’s question regarding God’s choice of using the Babylonians. These are 5 woes coming from God used for Judah correction: #1 Woe - Aggression Habakkuk 2:6-8 6 “Will not all of them taunt him, and ridicule and scorn, saying, woe to him who piles of stolen goods, and makes himself wealthy by extortion! #2 Woe - Covetousness Habakkuk 2:9-11 Woe to him who won just league games, well for his house, to place his nest, on high to escape from the reach of disaster.

#3 Woe -Violence Habakkuk 2:12-14 Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed, and founds a town with injustice. #4 Woe - In Humanity Habakkuk 2:15-17 Woe to him, who gives his neighbors, drink, pouring out your wrath, and even making them drunk in order to look at their nakedness. #5 Woe -Idolatry Habakkuk 2:18-20 What use is a carved idol after its craftsman carves it? It is only a test image, a teacher of lies, for the one who crass it’s shape. Trust in it, and makes idols that cannot speak.

Biblical resources, in the Book of Habakkuk 2: 6-20 NIV In verses 2: 5-20 “indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and never at rest, because he is as greedy as the grave, and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations, and takes captive all the peoples. (6) “Will not all of them taunt him, and ridicule and scorn, saying, woe to him who piles of stolen goods, and makes himself wealthy by extortion! How long must this go on? (7) Will not your creditors

suddenly arise? Will they not wake up and make you tremble? Then you will become their prey. (8) Because you have plundered many nations, the peoples who are left will plunder you. For you have shed human blood; you have destroyed lands and cities and everyone in them. (9) “Woe to him who built his house by unjust game, setting his nest, on high to escape, the clutches of ruined! (10) You applied it the ruin of many peoples, shame in your own house and forfeiting your life. (11) The stones of the wall will cry out, and the beans of the woodwork will echo it. (12) “Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbors, pouring it from the wind skin, till they are drunk, so that he can gaze on their naked bodies! (16) you will be filled with shame instead of glory. Now it is your turn! Drink and let your nakedness be

exposed! The cup from the Lord’s right hand is coming around to you, and disgrace will cover your glory. (17) The violence you have done to Lebanon will overwhelm you, and your destruction of animals will terrify you. For you have shed human blood; you have destroyed lands and cities, and everyone in them. (18) “Of what value is an idol carved by a craftsman? Or an image that teaches lies? For the one who makes it trust in his own creation; he makes idols that Cannot speak. (19) Woe to him who says to Wood, Come to life! Or to lifeless stone, Wake up! (20) The Lord, is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him. Source of information: NIV, Bible, King, James Bible, inspiration from my Lord Jesus Christ. May God bless you!

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11 NIV

Persevere to Get the Harvest Have you ever started a new thing and stopped shortly after you started? Maybe you tried a diet, a fitness routine, or a treatment plan and gave up after a few weeks. Continuing something new is often hard and takes a lot of work. This verse promises a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who endure discipline and persevere. Many of us want to enjoy the harvest without doing the work. This reminds me of the story of The Little Red Hen. In the story, the hen had everything to make the bread except some help. The hen labored and kept asking the other animals for help each step of the way. The hen kept showing up and doing what was necessary until the task was completed and the bread was hot and ready on the table. Though working alone can be uncomfortable and undesirable it is not impossible. As a child of God, you are never alone. You always have a very present help and friend that sticks closer than a brother. Like the little red hen, we have to be disciplined to keep moving forward. Unlike the hen, we have a Helper, Keeper, Waymaker, Provider, and Friend who is always available and looking forward to hearing from us. It’s okay to lean on God and man as you begin and continue to do the hard work of creating habits that will produce righteousness and peace in your life.

Take some time today to consider: Where does your help come from? What daily fitness habits should you begin to apply today? We have a wealth of knowledge at our fingertips. We are perishing due to a lack of application. It’s time for us to apply what we know and be consistent about it. You matter. Your health matters. Choose to do better. Begin to apply what you know.

Making Fitness Fit Into Your Daily Life 1. Plan your work — make time 2. Work your plan— dedicate 5 to 10 minutes each day to meeting your fitness needs by blocking it off on your calendar and setting an alarm.

If you want to make fitness fit into your daily life, you have to say no to the millions of excuses that will come. Wake up with a YES on your mind and go with it. The easiest way to start is to stay in bed and ride your pretend bike or do a few stretches before you get up. There are a ton of great ab workouts that you can do while in bed. Who doesn’t need to strengthen their core while getting 5-10 more minutes in the bed. These minutes will get your day off to a good start instead of a groggy one. Another simple thing that you can do is stretch, walk, or jog in place as soon as you get out of the bed. Start with 5-10 minutes and continue with that until you are doing it daily. There are several YouTube videos that offer short walks, stretches, and full body workouts. Find some that you like and go for it. You surely can find someone on YouTube that is doing fitness at a level you are comfortable with and one that fits your stage of life. The videos are set to all kinds of music and time periods. Be sure to include particular details in your

search: 10 minutes fitness to praise songs; 5-minute stretches to instrumental music, or something that’s popular from another artist or time period. Once you know the routine, you can silence the music that goes with the video and play your own. One other way to get fitness in is to habit bundle. If your first need is a trip to the restroom, you can march in place there while you brush your teeth and comb your hair. You can do 5 -10 minutes of standing and sitting while there. While your coffee is brewing, you can step out to the back yard and jump rope for a little while. A pretend rope works just as well as a real one. The goal is to get started and be consistent. We also have so many apps to choose from these days. Most of the fitness ones come with a free trial period. Then you have to make a decision about continuing with the service. There is something for everyone. Lastly if you are working or shopping at brick-and-mortar places, you can choose to park far. This allows you to get a few hundred - 1,000 more steps in. So long story short, there is a way to make fitness a part of your daily life. Choose the one that works for you and be consistent with it.

Fitness Prayer Heavenly Father, being self-disciplined is not easy. Sometimes I’m tired, don’t want to endure the pain, don’t want to sacrifice, and struggle to prioritize this part of my life. I know this is an area where I need better discipline. Help me to tap into your power and change for the better. Consistency and self-discipline are mine. Sickness, obesity, disease, and laziness cannot have me. I will walk this walk by your strength and your power and in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Article by

Venita Freeman

I can still hear the word of an old church mother, “If God said it…then that’s that,” as she rocked back in forth in the church pew. As a little girl, I didn’t understand the power nor the magnitude of what she was saying; but as I grown woman in the faith, I can fully comprehend what she was saying. Mother was making a powerful declaration about God doing exactly what He said He would do. These words left an indelible mark on the imprint of my soul and they often echo in the chamber of my spiritual ears in times of waiting. Waiting can be difficult and challenging for all of us. One of the ways that we can anchor ourselves in waiting, is considering the source. Who made the promise to you? What is God’s character like? Is He trustworthy? Do you have confident

expectation in the One who made the promise to you? There is a time gap between when the promise was spoken and when the promise is fulfilled. Beloved, don’t get trapped in the gap. It can produce intense pressure and many find themselves trying to help God out in making the promise come to pass. One biblical example of this is when God promised Sarah that she would give birth to a son in Genesis 18:10. Sarah laughed at the promise that God spoke, because she was past child bearing age and she thought it was too late. Sarah in an attempt to help God out, gave her maidservant, Hagar to her husband so she could have a son for Abraham. Before, we become quick to condemn Sarah for her behavior, let’s examine our own journey with the Lord and discover and identify the times that we tried

to make a promise happen. I’m not suggesting that it is a good thing to do. On the contrary, I am simply saying that it is wise for us to look at this woman Sarah, in hindsight as a mentor for our current contemporary context of which we can learn a valuable lesson in waiting. Trying to rush a promise or birth something out of the divine will of God, can produce unnecessary anguish and distain. Sarah shows us the consequences for trying to force what only God can fulfill. Eventually, this powerful biblical story unfolds and Sarah gives birth to the promised child, Isaac just as God said it would be. What God said, is what God did. This simple yet revelatory truth is easy to say, but hard to walk and live out. In the book of James 1:2-4 it says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” This sacred text in James challenges believers to “let patience have its perfect work” when we are enduring trials and hard seasons. Depending on how long you’ve been waiting, you can develop character cataracts. God is working, yet as each day passes by, you just don’t see any evidence of what He has promised

you. Maybe you are reading this article and you can’t see how or when God is going to fulfill what He said to you? My brothers and sisters, I am reminded of what my Bishop T.D. Jakes once said, “trust God even when you can’t trace him.” In the midst of this season of waiting, I want to encourage followers of Christ to hold fast to what God has promised and wait for it. Resist the temptation to help God out, and make it happen like Sarah did. In the course of waiting, it’s good to go back over what God said, and remind yourself of His promise and His nature. It is not impossible for Him to accomplish anything. The only thing impossible for God is lying. Numbers 23:19 says, “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent; He has said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” No matter where you are in your journey with Christ, I want to reignite and activate your faith to trust God and His timing for they are both in His perfect plan for your life. Just like the church mother from my youth declared in faith, I declare that, “if God said it…then that’s that.”

The Faith that Takes

“Coach” Charles Nash “And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief (or lack of faith): for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place and it shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible unto you!“ (Matthew 17:20 KJV)

confession of faith in the power of prayer and the Word remained the same!

Each time, the individual improved with their health or sickness. After I prayed, I would thank the Lord for healing them and thank Him for using me! If the person remained the same, I thanked God just the same! My

Prayer of Faith for my Miracle: Just wait in Faith

As I read scripture, it says God gives every believer the measure of faith. (Romans 12:3)

We have been given everything we need ...the faith required to live life to the fullest! We just need to develop it through life experiences, trusting God and …walking it I thank God for directing me to Crenshaw out…reading the Word and allowing faith to Christian Center (CCC), where my family grow and come by hearing and hearing the and I had the privilege to be taught by Pastor Word. Subsequently, “Faith comes by hearing Frederick K.C. Price III for 26yrs in the and hearing the Word of God” (Romans ministry of faith. At this time, I knew nothing 10:17). The more we listen to the Word, faith about the principles of faith, necessary to move cometh…our faith grows. the hand of God on my behalf. God gives some people strong faith to believe I grew in the Word and my faith. Suddenly, for the impossible, but it takes someone that the Holy Spirit began to move in my life, and will forsake what things look like in the natural I found myself imitating what I heard Pastor and just believe God’s Word. I began in my Price say when he would lay hands on the walk of faith, to take God’s Word and just sick during healing services on Tuesdays. believe what it said! I walked by faith not by Therefore, when friends and family were ill, I sight! Also, I continually strengthened my faith began to practice the word of faith for healing by studying, reading and meditation on the them. Word.

The Journey: Early Beginnings:

In March 2009, I actively walked out my faith

when I was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure.

My heart failure was due to a rare, genetically inherited disease called Cardiac Amyloidosis. In this disease, the liver produces abnormal proteins, called amyloid, that lodge in the heart from birth. We were informed by Stanford Hospital Cardiology that not much was known about the disease. Most people die before it’s diagnosed and the only way to treat Amyloid Disease is to get a heart transplant! After hearing the doctor’s diagnosis and prognosis, my wife and I began to pray about early December, asking God to prolong my life and send us a good heart quickly. The Lord said he would send the heart I needed immediately after the prayer petition and prayer of agreement. We needed a miracle; thus, we prayed in belief, asking for a miracle. We didn’t know how to pray for a miracle, but we did know that He hears us when we pray. He would give us the desires of our heart. What we agree on Earth, in prayer, we could have it. Also, we knew God is a miracle working God; nothing is impossible with God. And finally, this is the confidence we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us. Whatever we ask, we know we have the petitions that we desired of him in 1 John 5:14-15. We stood on the Word, waited in faith, declaring we have our miracle, that I shall live and not die, though my natural health condition worsened! Somewhere around 8 to 10 days after prayer, I was put on the heart transplant list at Stanford Hospital. They are a renowned research institution that performed the first heart transplant successfully! Prior to my surgery, I was a running back to coach at San Jose State University. I was forced into retirement due

to this worsening condition. As an aside, we moved from Los Angeles (LA) because I took a coaching position at San Jose and Stanford University was about 40 minutes away. God knew I would need the heart transplant and strategically ordered our steps to Northern California to be close to Stanford Hospital. The move was a set up for our blessing! God is real and He knows everything and He’s working all for our good! Around the second week of December, I was admitted to the hospital and put on a machine to help my heart to beat properly. I couldn’t leave the hospital. I was told I had to stay in the hospital until I received a heart. They indicated they didn’t know when, but sometimes, in December, donated organs increase because people get drunk and do careless things during the holidays.

Manifestation of my Miracle: God hears, answers, and we can count on Him …He will deliver.

I was put in the Hospital on a heart pump machine on the 10th of December. On Sunday, December 13th, a Heart Transplant Surgeon walked into my room and said to me, “Coach, we found your heart”, after being in the hospital for only 3 days! Praise God! It was the right blood type and size. I asked him if it was a good heart. He informed me they received 4 hearts with the same blood type. I had four hearts to choose from . He said 2 hearts were ok and one was good, and the 4th heart was excellent! He chose an excellent heart for me. He indicated the surgery would take place for my heart transplant about 11 o’clock or 12 midnight that same day! At that time, I felt a little nervous, but not afraid! My wife, the Head Football Coach and his wife, and a dear friend came to hospital while I went into surgery! 32

My wife and close friend continued to pray leading up to the heart transplant for 3 to 4 hours. I asked my wife could I watch Sports Center until the transplant. She became a little angry and said, “You care about some Sports Center at a time like this!!!” I responded, “I do plan on seeing you again in the morning after surgery. However, if I don’t see you in the morning, I still win, because then I will be with the Lord!” My wife said, “why you talk like that.” I said to her, “I’ve been more nervous prior to a football game at San Jose State. Surely, I operate in faith, not fear. God can’t move in unbelief or fear. Faith moves the hand of God!” Praise God we received our miracle, my new heart, in December 2009. It’s 14 years later and I’m still rejoicing and thanking God for my miracle of life! I also thank God three other people received hearts that night, too! We believe because of our prayers. God is a God of overflow. Some people might say, oh four people had to die, but I believe God has a storehouse of supply of whatever we need. We just need to ask, believe, and receive by faith!

Two other experiences using my faith: My Dad

There were 2 incidences after my heart transplant that allowed me to continue to strengthen my faith.

My father, at the age of 78 years old, had to have quadruple bypass surgery. The doctors indicated that he had a 50% chance of surviving surgery at this age. He was living in Chicago. My wife and I prayed over the phone with him about the surgery that God would direct the surgeon, successfully with total recovery. Praise God he fully recovered and lived to be 85years of age!

Football Camp - no rain:

In 2011, after retiring from San Jose State University, I held High School Football Literacy Camps at LA City Harbor College. I scheduled a football camp Friday - Sunday in LA when it was continuously raining. The rain was causing flooding everywhere and wouldn’t stop for weeks. I had scheduled this event months in advance, not knowing it would be raining. The day before, my wife and I flew down to LA, with surrounding areas getting swamped with rain! The previous week, before the camp, it rained fiercely all week and the weekend! We tried to reschedule this event, but the Athletic Director of the College didn’t have any more dates available. This camp was important for the high school players because it gave the college coaches a second look at students that didn’t receive a scholarship. I invited college coaches from Northern California and Southern California. I knew they had extra scholarships available for players, thus I organized Football Camps to allow students to compete and show their skills another time. Well, on the airplane going to LA the night before, I asked God to move the rain outside my scheduled camp. Saturday, the day of the camp, coaches, kids etc. called and asked if we would cancel the event because it was raining badly. I said no, the camp would go on. On the way to the event, it rained terribly. We kept driving. When we went to the storage in Gardena to get the equipment for the event, I looked up at the clouds. The Lord said, “Don’t look at the clouds, just start thanking me for no rain over your event!” Well, praise God, we had the event! It was cloudy, but the rain stopped! Three players were offered scholarships because of this event. It was raining all around us, but God made sure it did not rain during our event. 33

After breaking down equipment and traveling back to storage in Gardena, I discovered I left the barbeque pit. I traveled back to LA Harbor College where we had just had the event and it was raining and the area was soaked. We had only been gone 20 min! To God be the Glory for the things He has done and will do if we just have the faith that takes. I found everything in the Kingdom of God operates by faith. It’s important that we learn how faith works, as Pastor Price taught me! Faith moves the hand of God! Giving God praise for this opportunity to “overcome him (Satan) by the blood and the words of my testimony”. (Revelation 12:11)

Recipe From Southern Living Magazine

Ingredients: Pecan Pie Filling •

1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed • 3/4 cup dark corn syrup • 4 egg yolks • 1 1/2 cups half-and-half • 1/3 cup cornstarch • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature) • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pecan Pie Cake •

3 cups finely chopped pecans, toasted • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening • 2 cups granulated sugar • 5 large eggs, separated • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 c. milk mixed with 1 T. vinegar) • 1 cup dark corn syrup Pie Crust Leaves • • •

1 pre-made pie crust 1 large egg 1 tablespoon water

Instructions: Pecan Pie Filling In a 3-quart saucepan, whisk together first 6 ingredients until smooth. Whisk constantly while bringing mixture to a boil over medium heat. Boil 1 minute or until thickened. Remove from heat; whisk in butter and vanilla extract. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mixture to prevent a film from forming and chill for 4 hours.

To chill quickly: Pour filling into a bowl and place the bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice. Whisk constantly until cooled (about 15 minutes). Pecan Pie Cake

Toast the chopped pecans: Spread on a lightly greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 5 minutes. Generously butter three 8- or 9-inch round cake pans. Divide 2 cups pecans evenly into buttered pans; shake to coat bottoms and sides of pans. In a large bowl, beat butter and shortening with an electric mixer until fluffy. Gradually add the sugar. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla. Whisk together flour and baking soda. Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Stir in remaining 1 cup pecans.

Continued on next page…

Beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Fold one-third of the egg whites into the batter. Fold in remaining egg whites. Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes, until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire rack for 10 minutes. Invert layers onto wire racks with wax paper underneath. Brush the tops and sides of each layer with corn syrup, allow to cool completely. Pie Crust Leaves Roll out and smooth pie crust. Use a leaf shaped cookie cutter to cut out leaves and mark leaf veins with the tip of a knife. Whisk together egg and 1 tablespoon water; brush on pastry leaves.

To shape leaves: Crumple small aluminum foil pieces into 1/2-inch balls. Coat with vegetable cooking spray, and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Drape a pastry leaf over each ball.

Bake at 425° for 6 to 8 minutes or until golden. Cool on a wire rack 10 minutes. Gently remove foil from leaves. Assembling Cake: Place one cake layer, pecan side up, on your cake stand; spread half of Pecan Pie Filling on top. Place second cake layer, pecan side up, on top of filling; spread with remaining filling. Top with remaining cake layer, pecan side up. Arrange pie crust leaves on and around the cake, if desired.

Free 2 Serve

God’s Timing is the Best Have you ever had an event happen that you thought very little about at the time. Then two decades later, it changed your life? Let us tell you about our experience. In 1989, God put a man in our path for a brief moment. He was a full time RV’er. His story of traveling and living in his trailer, sparked a fire in our souls. It flickered, barely staying alive, for 29 years. We were weekend camping warriors and two-week vacationers with our family and our trailer. But God saw to it that just enough people and podcasts crossed our journey to keep alive the desire to “give it all up and travel in our RV”. Meeting this guy was a God-incident that changed the trajectory of our lives. We waited on God’s timing. By 2013 the flame ignited again and burned brightly. Everything we did was geared toward making our dream a reality. Five years later we hit the road. We are Keith and Mary Lou Norris, fulltime traveling volunteers. We achieved our goal because Holy Spirit kept us on track for nearly 3 decades! We have seen God’s fingerprints all over our progress. On a 2014 vacation in Montana, we attended a church which had multiple amazing outreach projects planned for the summer. We wanted to stay and help! But, alas, work in Iowa called us back. By the time we were home,

we’d made the decision to volunteer and give back while we traveled. Was it by chance we went to that particular church? We don’t think so! Soon our “stuff” became a ball and chain. Everything had to go. For five years we purged. Of course, giving up some treasures hurt. But God had anointed us for this lifestyle. Consequently, Holy Spirit eased the pain of loss and we stayed determined to clean out every drawer, closet and room. The sale of our house happened without any effort, one year earlier than scheduled! All the pieces we needed to fall together (storage, living arrangements) weren’t available when negotiations began. We are planners and like to have all our ducks in a row. It was difficult to sit back and have faith that God was in control. But on the day, there was no doubt the sale was going through, both a storage unit and an apartment miraculously opened up…exactly what we needed. God was teaching us how to wait on Him, for He has perfect timing. It was a lesson we drew upon often the next 14 months. If we wondered where God was in the chaos of ending one lifestyle and starting another, we never had to look far or wait long. His fingerprints always showed up! We’ve now been on the road for 5 years. We’ve passed through 39 states; visited 264 museums; walked around 47 college campuses; toured 26 state capitols and have 76 stamps in our National Park System Passport Book! But more importantly than any of those, God has directed us to 16 places where we have served people in the name of Jesus. There’s a strong calling on us to spend every winter, and 2-3 months of the summer, in service as volunteers. From day one on the road, we had no plans where we were going to serve. We simply stepped out in faith, knowing God would lead us somewhere we were needed.

The Lord said to Abram, “Leave…your father’s home and go to a land that I am going to show you…I will bless you… so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you…” Gen. 12:1-3 GNB

Immediately He brought us to the right people at the perfect time. He took what some might call a coincidence and made it into a God-incidence. A couple we met at a church knew of a volunteer opportunity in Tucson, Arizona. We were headed there to see family. We checked out Gospel Rescue Mission, a homeless and recovery shelter. The mission was deep into remodeling an old airport conference center hotel. It would become a new home for men, women and children struggling through homelessness, addiction and recovery. A few days later we found ourselves painting and laying floors! We discovered this was exactly where we needed to be. God’s fingerprints were everywhere! While helping those first

months, we fell in love and have returned every November. Now we are ‘Free 2 Serve’. In a few days we are starting season six. The staff and guests have become like family. Because the Gospel is preached here, it’s a big family centered around Christ. We could not have planned this any better! Every winter we learn something new. So far, besides some maintenance, we’ve prepared and served meals, laundered donated clothing, stocked the guest closet, replenished the clothing trailer before it goes out into the community, helped with office work, prepared for guest and community events and staged volunteer events. It’s varied and rewarding work. The greatest reward, however, is developing relationships with the people. God is at work in a most visible and amazing way. He has placed these people all together at the right time. There’s no doubt in our minds. As spring comes upon the desert and the heat of summer looms, we get “hitch-itch”. We’re ready to back the truck up to our fifth wheel trailer, hit the open road and go to our next volunteer gig. So far, we’ve served in five northern states: o Nebraska at a homeless shelter’s kitchen and thrift shop o Iowa at a free thrift shop for at-risk people, a street lunch distribution and a food packaging charity o South Dakota at a food bank and a weekly food distribution o Michigan at a Salvation Army community kitchen and food distribution o Minnesota at a Salvation Army homeless shelter kitchen and food shelf.

Without planning it, we seem to have settled into a theme of food and shelter insecurity. It’s all because God pushed us that way and made sure the path was clear. We must admit, we were missing the Iowa State Fair something fierce! So, this past August we spent time volunteering at the State 4-H Exhibit Building. Sometimes we just gotta have fun!!

The most amazing thing about all this service is that it IS fun! Volunteering is an activity that revives Christians. Like exercise or a walk energizes us physically, spiritual and emotional well-being is often rejuvenated when we help others. Volunteering can make a gray day bright. It can fulfill a purpose just when we’re feeling a little lost and blue. It fills us spiritually and lifts us up to face another day, week or month. When we are needing to be invigorated, we simply need to listen to God and go where He leads. Often, we uncover His destination for us with some weird “out of the box” thought. We say “I have no clue where that idea came from.” But really, we do. It’s God working His timing to accomplish His plan; to put us in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing. When you look for them, you can find God’s fingerprints all over life. Be energized by them and walk down the path He places before you. We assure you, He knows where He’s taking you, even if, like Abraham, you don’t have a clue where you’re going! As we write this we are sitting in the Ozarks, ready to be in Tucson. What will He have in store for us this winter? Only God knows. We know it will be exactly what He knows we need.

Who Are You?

Author: Minister Kelvin Strozier, October 2023

In our time today the identity of men as fathers, as husbands, as leaders of their family has been under attack more than any other time in my lifetime. The institutions of marriage and fatherhood look totally different now than I have ever seen. I will go so far as to say they have been perverted. In this society of “whatever feels good, do it”, wrong is being called right and right is wrong. Some men are embracing mindsets and ideologies that are completely anti-God. They have gotten far away from who God created them to be. All these things are distractions set up by the enemy to get us as men off our post; out of position from fulfilling our purpose. But God loves us so much that he can’t watch this and

allow believers to keep silent any longer. When a machine malfunctions and no longer works the way it was intended, what do we do? Do we scrap it and throw it out? No! We take it back to the manufacturer and let Him restore it back to what it was intended to be. So that’s what we are going to do today. We are going back to the manufacturer and let him remind us of who we really are. Who HE created us to be. The Foundation of Who We Are: Through Creation - Gen 1:26-28 26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over

the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over [a]all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that [b]moves on the earth.” At the dawn of humanity, God said let US make man. When God says that, he is indicating that he needed all three parts of himself to make mankind. It took His deity, the Father, His humanity, the Son, and His heart, the Holy Spirit to make us. The word “make” is significant because every other part of creation, he spoke into existence. “Let there be” and there was. However, we meant so much to him that we were the only part of creation that he put his hands on. Gen 2:7 says: And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. Just like a potter with a formless lump of clay sitting in front of him, shapes that lump of clay into the image he sees in his mind, the God of the universe took his perfect hands and used them to form mankind from the ground, forming us into His own image. He didn’t stop there, He then

breathed himself into us and in so doing he gave us His leadership, His authority, His intellect His ability to reason, relate, comprehend and respond to circumstances. In essence, God made us like Him. Proclamation of Purpose: Men, we were created to be fruitful and multiply, physically and spiritually. God wants us to be productive and reproductive. Yes, he wanted Adam and Eve to have more babies and fill the earth. But He also wanted them to have a productive life, raising more image bearers. God intended for them to duplicate the creative power he used when he made them in his image. That’s discipleship. So, if God intended that for the first man Adam, that means he has the same expectation of us today. God is the same yesterday, today and forever. Our first disciples should be our children. He has called us to lead. When he gave us dominion, he intended for us to take authority over our environment. Rather than being overcome by the things that are going on around us, it’s time to subdue it. Bring it under subjection to the power of God. It is time to take back what the enemy is trying to steal. John 10:10 “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, but I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.” It’s time for us to take

back what the enemy is coming after. Our children, our family, our identity is under constant attack. Frankly men, many of us have become too passive. We cannot leave our kids/family uncovered and vulnerable. Allowing them to be raised by the TV, or worse yet, by video games, or even by political agendas that are trying to conform our children into the image of this world. We are the watchmen on the wall and it’s our job to protect our family. We may not be able to change the entire world but can influence and impact our world. Those who are in our sphere of influence. This won’t happen by happenstance; we have to be intentional with our relationships with our kids. How do you do that? 1. Talk to them/Teach them 2. Listen to them 3. Hold them accountable in love 4. Speak life over them 5. Pray for them 6. Model godly living in front of them.

7. Show them the way, then take them with you on the journey. 8. Encourage them 9. Fight for them I know what I am talking about here is not always easy. Are we going to make mistakes along the way? Absolutely! Is it worth getting back up and continuing to try? Absolutely. When you blow it, own it. Be vulnerable and admit that you aren’t perfect. That honesty will allow them to see that it is possible to make mistakes and still get up and try again. I know that sometimes it feels like we are fighting an uphill battle, but we have been given authority by Jesus Christ to tread upon serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy and nothing shall by any means harm you. Remember who we are! We have the blood of the King running through our veins and we cannot be defeated. Adam, Who Are You? You are God’s man. Walk in that truth.

Kelvin Strozier M.Ed.

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Hello everyone, it’s Naomi, and I am a Y.P.W.P (Young Person With Purpose). I am back to share with you some more great topics. But before I go any further, I would like to welcome my friends Anaij and Gabriel, they will be writing for Sarah magazine as well. We will be representing the young people in each issue of Sarah. In this issue we will be talking about the holidays and how we prepare for them. We will also be interviewing another Y.P.W.P. Isaiah Garcia who is a Kidpreneur, and is very talented. He is going to share his story on how he became a Kidpreneur. We hope that our conversations and interviews inspire and encourage you. If you have a story or a topic you’d like us to discuss, please contact us at mysarahmagazine@gmail.com

LET’S GET STARTED!

THE HOLIDAYS, SCHOOL, AND BEING AMBASSADORS With the holidays coming up my friends and I would like to share with you how we prepare ourselves.

1. What is one way you like to prepare your heart for Jesus before certain Holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving? Naomi: I like to remind myself that even though I enjoy all the gifts, food and fun, that all comes in second place. The real focus is giving thanks to the most- high and remembering the birth of the greatest man who walked on earth. God is the one who blessed us with these Holidays as a reminder for worship and recognition for his son Jesus Christ. I plan on telling myself this before I indulge in all the food and presents. It's not a bad thing to like Thanksgiving and Christmas because of what it gives us, but it's important to meditate and think on all that has been done for us because of The Gift of Jesus Christ. I suggest rereading the story of Jesus' birth just to get a refresher and start the holidays right.

Anaij: What I like to do is really reﬂect on what I've done leading up to a holiday and re-center myself back to God and thank him for what He's done for me.

Gabriel: One way I prepare my heart for Jesus is remembering that holidays like Christmas are to celebrate the gift of Jesus and be thankful for all we have been given from God and people on earth.

SCHOOL

2. It's around that time we are getting back in the swing of school, how do you think school has helped you or brought disadvantage with your walk with God?

Naomi: School takes a lot of free time away from me, so I think it limits the time I can spend reading the Bible and resting in his presence. A lot of the time at school I am also surrounded by those who are not on the same path as me and it can be diﬃcult not to stay on track and not try and go the same way they go. At the same time, it also helps with discipline and hard work. Practicing these two things in the real world (like homework and studying) also helps me apply it spiritually. School is a struggle and I think that helps me depend and rely on God more. Even though School isn't always the place we want to be, just a reminder that God has us right where he wants us and He is helping us every step of the way. (Isaiah 41:10)

Anaij: Balancing school and my relationship with God has been a struggle for me. Trying to balance my schoolwork and my extracurricular activities, it has been difficult for me to stay consistent with reading my Bible and praying, but that's something I'm working on. Gabriel: I think school has made the walk with God lonelier and difficult because of the constant fighting against worldly things daily. It is very difficult to fight and many people don't like to be talked to about God.

AMBASSADORS 3.God calls us to be Ambassadors for Him and spread the Gospel along with His word. How do you go about trying to speak the goodness of God to others and your peers? Is it a struggle for you? If so, why?

Naomi: If you pay attention and become aware of everything going on around you and every discussion you have, you will notice there is a way to connect God to it. That's because He is everything! Through Him everything was made including the concepts we talk about with our friends. A lot of the times in my English class my teacher asks discussion-oriented questions that align with the book we are reading like, “what is something you think all kids should know about these days?” I answered “the love of Jesus and what He did for us on the cross.” Even though I didn't say much, it still got the word out to people in my class even if they weren't paying attention, that could have been a potential seed planted in my classmates. Now don't get me wrong this is in no way shape or form easy and I get it. It can be embarrassing and scary to be bold and speak the truth. Especially when you know people don't agree. But here's the mindset I'm trying to live by; It's not about us. It's about the souls who need saving. It's necessary to put the embarrassment and shame aside because we are doing this as Ambassadors for the most-high. We have been called. I have trouble spreading the gospel. It's one of my biggest struggles and I think it's because the devil is so bent on holding us back because he knows if we were no longer afraid or embarrassed to share the gospel so many seeds would be planted and a harvest would come like no other. So, let's no longer hide the word of God from others because of fear. Instead let's take part in the job of soul saving! Remember… You might be the only Jesus people see in their lives! - Kirk Franklin Continued…

AMBASSADORS

Anaij: For me, my struggle is that I don't talk to people very much, so it gets hard sometimes when I'm at school or other establishments. I think moving forward, I'm going to get out of my comfort zone and really try to spread my faith with others.

Gabriel: I haven't really ﬁgured out how to speak to others about God because they ﬁnd it boring and don't really care or they have their hearts and minds set on something else other than God.

I hope you enjoyed our conversation. We would love your feedback. Now it’s time to read about our featured Kidpreneur.

Naomi Martin

Head Writer/Interviewer

INTRODUCING … Isaiah Garcia Our Kidpreneur and Y.P.W.P. Isaiah is 11 years old and in the sixth grade. He loves sports, especially baseball! He recently became a Kidpreneur and is doing great at what he does. We decided to ask him some questions on how he got started. His story will inspire other children to become Kidpreneurs.

1. Who or what inspired you to become a Kidpreneur? Isaiah: Ms. Sheree Carradine 2. How did you start making money? Isaiah: By asking people to help me fundraise for my travel ball. 3. What prompted you start your own business? Isaiah: Ms. Sheree 4. Who is your inspiration? Isaiah: Ms. Sheree 5. What was your first big sale experience? Isaiah: 2023 All Stars 9-11U baseball sleeves. 6. Who was your first customer? Isaiah: My friend Shea.

Continued on next page… 54

7. What are the pros and cons of starting a business? Isaiah: Pros: Selling stuff and making money. Cons: it’s hard to talk to people, I feel more confident with my mom helping me. 8. What is your biggest fear, if any? Isaiah: Starting to talk to people and asking them to buy my stuff. 9. Do you want to open a store or do business in different states? Isaiah: No, I don’t want to do business in other states or open a store. Right now, I do this as a hobby. I would like to one day have my own restaurant. 10. What are your business goals? Isaiah: To sell 500 buttons and continue making fun stuff. 11. how can people help you meet your goals and how can they order your items? Isaiah: They can buy my buttons: 1 for $3.00 or 2 for $5.00. I also sell notebook sets and baseball sleeves. 12. How did God speak to you? Isaiah: He said do it, it is worth it, and sure enough, it was! 13. How can people contact you to place orders? Isaiah: They can call, 626-367-3618. On the following pages you can see all the unique items Isaiah designed and are selling. Help Isaiah meet his goal! If you would like for your child to become a Kidpreneur, send your inquiries to mysarahmagazine@gmail.com.

BASEBALL SLEEVES I drew my own designs and then they were made.

4 PIECE NOTEBOOK SETS & BUTTONS I can personalize these and put whatever you want on them. I can also personalize your buttons with whatever you want on them.

Recipe From Southern Living Magazine

Ingredients: •

2 Tablespoon water

•

2 Tablespoon maple syrup

•

2 Teaspoons Sea salt

•

1 Tablespoon chili powder

•

2 lbs. Chicken Wings

•

1 Teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions: Preheat your oven to 365 degrees. Whisk together the water, maple syrup, sea salt and chili powder. Place the chicken wings in a shallow baking dish. Pour the liquid mixture over the chicken and turn to coat. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds.

As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend

So, you’re tired of being single. You’re a Christian and you want to meet other Christian singles that are sincere about their faith, love the Lord and have a strong relationship with Him. You want to share your faith interests and not be afraid to say that Jesus is your Lord and Savior. A single that wants to keep your temple clean and unblemished. Are you just tired of being the third wheel? Sometimes, don’t you want to go out with likeminded people and not have to worry about feeling out of place? If you can identify with the above questions…let me tell you about ISICS. WE ARE a Christian ministry that gives Christian singles a chance to network, meet/create new friendships, represent Christ and just have fun. WE ARE NOT… another dating site/ dating meeting place. We are here to uplift each other and have fun. If GOD shows you your wife or husband through this ministry, we can’t stop that. But…Do Not Join with the idea of this being a place to find dates. WHAT WE EXPECT; that you represent Jesus at all times. We are here to draw/win souls through our lives, we don’t want to misrepresent God. That means…no profanities, no drinking, no smoking, etc. If the word of God says it’s wrong, then it will not be accepted in our group. The ages excepted are from 19 on up− Divorced, never married, separated, widowed, single parent…all are welcome. We will meet bi-weekly, the day and time will be determined by everyone’s availability. If you would like more detail on Iron Sharpens Iron Christian Singles contact us at: mysarahmagazine@gmail.com Founders: Sheree Carradine Gerald Smith Jr. Donzella Berry

Keeping Christian singles clean in a not so clean world.

We are here to impact one another. We don’t want to be dull and useless, we are here to change, shape and encourage each other.

Rickey A. Poston Born in Bowling Green, Kentucky to Ronald and Ethel Poston. Rickey is the “Baby” of 4, one sister and 2 older brothers. Rickey loves sports. All of them. He participated in sports programs, both in school and the Community Youth Programs. After he graduated from High School Rickey chose to serve his country and enlisted in the US Navy Rickey served for 22 years, and this offered him the

opportunity to see the world. Most of his career was spent in San Diego in large Vessels such as the USS Kitty Hawk CV63 and the USS Constellation CV64. And for that I am grateful, or we might have never met. We were only ever stationed in one other city outside of California and that was Memphis, Tennessee, which is also the place where he retired. He now resides in Tucson, Arizona to be close to our 2 Beautiful Grandchildren.

P. Elayne Poston Born in Barberton, Ohio to Robert and Dorothy Wheeler. I am the 10th of 11 children. I was born and raised in the PAW Church. We were Apostolic Pentecostal. My mother was a Pastor, and my dad was a Deacon. By the time I was old enough to remember my dad had stopped attending Church, but it never stopped my mom from going. I gave my life to the Lord for real, for real,30 years ago and I like David, can say, I was young and now I’m old and I have NEVER seen the righteous forsaken nor His seed begging bread. When I graduated from High School my father gave me luggage. When I turned 18, I moved to San Diego and never looked back. I lived with my ‘Big Sister” as she was married with children.

While awaiting my time to go to college, I made the same mistake as so many girls. I gave birth to a son, Cornelius, he was the joy of my life. I then began my education path. I began at Grossmont Community College and after 11 years I completed my Associate of Science Degree. By this time, I had met and married my husband, Rick. He was a Navy man so shortly after finishing at Grossmont, we moved to Memphis, Tennessee as that is where Rick was stationed. He was committed to my education and insisted that I go back to school, so I did. I spent the next 11 years completing my bachelor’s degree in healthcare management from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale and then on to my Master of Science in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas

Fayetteville. I have always worked in healthcare, and I have an innate attraction to the Elders. I love them and they love me. I started my career in the Kitchen, as a Cook, until they found out, then I moved into the Activities Department. I had truly found my place, taking care of the Elders and having fun doing it. I worked my way through to the top and now serve as a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator holding a license in 3 states. One of my best accomplishments was marrying my husband of 35 years, being the mother of 2 amazing adult sons, Cornelius (Tucson,

Arizona) and Deric (Austin,

Texas); and being called GiGi by my two amazing grandchildren Cornelius (CJ) 16 and Chloe 12.

Our Love Story Begins… Rickey and I met on Oct 30, 1988, at a house party in San Diego, California. My intention was to go to the house party with my friend Valerie, and she would in turn go to “Country Club” with me. Well, let me explain; I Love Country Music! I Loved to TwoStep, Boot Scoot and Line Dance. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to the Country Club. We hung out, ate all the food and said good night. I had concluded that if this guy asked me for my phone number, I was going to give him a bogus number. Suffice it to say, he never asked. Just to be clear, this party took place on a Saturday night.

On Friday of that same week, I’ll never forget it…. I was standing at the Nurses Station preparing to clock out at the end of my workday when I got a call from my friend Valerie’s Sister Regina. Regina asked if I remembered meeting Rick at her party. I said no. She went on to describe him, I said oh yeah, why? Regina went on to share that Rick had called her every day leaving multiple messages asking her to call him as soon as she could. She finally got the messages because she works at night and sleeps during the day. Regina went on to share her conversation with Rick… Regina: “Hey Rick, I see you called me, what’s up?” Rick: Hey Regina, thanks for calling me back. There was a girl at the party named Elayne. I understand she came to the party with your sister, right? Regina: Yes.

Rick: I was hoping I could get her number. Regina: Wait a minute! You mean to tell me you’ve been blowing up my phone all week for another girl’s phone number? Man, you better get off my phone. Rick: Oh, come on Regina, don’t act like that! Then can you call her and give her my number? Regina: No. Rick: Regina don’t be like that. I have to talk to her. Regina: OK, I’ll call her, but don’t call me again. Rick: OK, thank you Regina, I owe you! How do I know this conversation verbatim? Because Regina called me immediately and shared this story with me. I must admit, I was flattered. So, I called him right back. He answered after the first ring.

I introduced myself and he was clearly taken aback as he admitted that he didn’t think I would call him. I asked why? He confessed, “I don’t know, I just never imagined that you would call me. I confessed that I was flattered that he went through such great lengths to find me. He stated that there was just something about me that he just had to see if it was real. We talked for about 15 minutes, and he asked if we could go to dinner on Saturday night. I agreed to go to dinner and stated that it would have to be a double date as I didn’t know him. He agreed and stated he wanted me to feel comfortable. He stated that he would bring his Shipmate as he was in the Navy.

Our First Date We met at Friday’s the Restaurant, and had a BLAST! After dinner we went dancing and had a BLAST!

Second Date He looked at me and asked if I would like to go to the Chargers football game the next day as it was a home game and he had tickets. I love Football, so we went, we had a BLAST!

The Dates Continued The next day was Monday, he had duty so he called and asked if I would like to go to the movies on Tuesday, I said yes. We went to see the new movie that came out on Friday, “Coming to America”. I think we saw each other every day except the days that he had Duty. The following Friday, he invited me to his apartment because he wanted to cook dinner for me. He cooked fried chicken, green beans baked potatoes and dinner rolls, it was lovely.

An Unexpected Visit The next week was Thanksgiving. He would come to my job and bring lunch. On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, he came and had lunch with me as usual. However, on this particular Wednesday, he came back at about 4 pm. I asked, “What are doing here,” and he said, “I have something to ask you”. I responded with, “OK, let’s go to my office.” I sat behind the desk, and he began to speak. “Elayne, I don’t have much to offer you, I have $1,500. to my name but I promise you, I will love you the rest of my life, will you marry me?” My response was, “Are you serious?” He replied, “I have never been more serious in my life.” I was so caught off guard. I responded with “Are you sure?” He went on to say; “I can’t imagine my life without you in it. In 6 days, I leave you for 6 months. I want to know for sure that you will

be here when I return. Please say yes.” I looked at him and said… well, let me clock out! He said let’s drive to Las Vegas tonight and get married! I looked at him and said, OK! As we were walking down the hall, we were laughing. One of the Residents was sitting in the hall and saw us coming. She said “What are you two kids laughing about? Are you going to run off to Vegas and get married?” Rick and I looked at each other and laughed louder! I whispered to the resident and said “Yes, we are, but don’t tell anyone!” She laughed and said I won’t, and she wished us good luck. Please know that by the time I returned to work she had told everyone that would listen.

Heading To Las Vegas We stopped for food it began to rain… One of the Patients I was taking care of at the Nursing Home, was there because she was in a car accident headed to Las Vegas in the rain.

I told Rick I couldn’t go to Vegas; the shear looks of panic and devastation in his eyes was heartbreaking. I took him by the hand and said, “I want to marry you, just not in Las Vegas, I’ll marry you on Sunday. We had this conversation on Wednesday. Please be advised that the following day would be Thanksgiving.

The Big Announcement That next day we announced our pending engagement to our families and friends. We both got the same response, “You don’t even know each other!” I told Rick that he would have to ask my father for my hand, he looked at me and said, “Call him”. So, I did. My Dad was so amazingly my dad. Rick introduced himself and asked my dad if he would allow him to marry his daughter. My dad asked, “Is Elayne there”? Rick replied, “Yes Sir”. My dad said, “May I speak to her”?

Rick gave me the phone and my dad asked me, “Do you want to marry him?” I replied, "Yes Sir”. My dad said, “Do you want to marry him?” I replied, “Yes Sir, I do.” My dad then asked me, “Do you like him?” I replied, “Yes Sir, he’s a great guy. My dad then said, I didn’t say love him, but do you like him, they’re not the same.” I replied, “Yes, I like him a lot.” My dad then asked to speak with Rick, he then asked Rick, the same questions. My dad then told him, I give you both my blessings. He then said this: Rick, she’s grown. I think I raised her pretty well, so there will be no need for you to try to whoop on her. If you get tired of her and don’t want her anymore, you bring her back to me the same way you came to me to get her. Do you understand?” Rick replied, “Yes Sir, I understand, however, I don’t think I will ever want to do that. They laughed and Rick gave me the phone.

Our Forever Begins That was on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day 1988, we were married on that Sunday November 27, 1988. We can’t believe that was 35 years ago this month! We, like other couples, have had our struggles like most couples. However, we never experienced racial issues until we moved to Memphis. How did we stay strong through those times? We didn’t worry about what other people thought. Rick was very clear, and instilled in our family that “What others thought didn’t matter”.

Be Yourself The biggest piece of advice I think we would both share is: Don’t try to change the other person. Rickey loves going to the movies, for me, not so much. I would never stand in the way of him going to the movies, in fact, I buy him movie theater gift cards. I will go with him occasionally, usually with a blanket because you can get the best naps in the movie theater! I, on the other hand, love Church, and he has never tried to stop me from being involved with the different ministries. He will even attend with me. He lets me be me and I let him be him. We never argued in front of our children. If we had a disagreement, we took a shower. Then you could talk as loud as you needed to, and the boys couldn’t hear us.

Do what works for your marriage.

Our Advice To Others: Be honest with each other. Never go to bed angry. We never slept apart because we were upset. There was never any sleeping on the couch. Our home was OUR safe place, no pretending was permitted. If you’re angry you can say it, and why. If your sad, you can say it. If it was just a terrible day at work, say it. And the other person just listened. I remember once coming home so upset because I don’t cook. The women at work would make me feel so bad because I can’t cook. So, I began

apologizing to Rickey about how terrible it was that I couldn’t cook and how I knew that it must really bother him, and I was really upset about it. He looked at me and said, “I do not have a problem with you not cooking. If I did, I would tell you. Please don’t let what others think or say make what we have a problem.” I responded, “you really don’t care?” He said “Honey, I really don’t care.” So, I would say to young or old couples, you do what works for your relationship. No one else matters.

Rick and I had been married for a little over 22 years when this article was written.

Relationships P. Elayne Poston Relationships…. the essence of life is found in our ability to formulate relationships. This ability begins at an early age; it is the same for both boys and girls.

Rick and I have been married for 22 years and 7 months. What makes our marriage unique is not only that we met and married in 27 days; but that we are of different races and come from two completely different worlds. I am an African American female from Akron, Ohio and him a Caucasian male from Bowling Green, Kentucky. From the very beginning we knew that we would face challenges. The looks…the stares…. the whispers…. the snide comments. We knew that everyone, even some of our invited guest that attended the wedding was not “happy” about our hasty decision to marry. However, we knew that WE were right for each other. As I sat down to write this article, I asked my husband “What would he say to young couples on the subject of Interracial Relationships”? His reply, “Know that it only matters to other people that you are of different races”. The truth is, that is how we live. In our home, race was never an issue; I remember the first time we were hit with the reality that it only mattered to other people. We have two sons who are now 20 and 27 years old. When our eldest son was 8 years old attending the Boys and Girls Club after school; he was being picked up by his dad and one of the kids said to him, “Hey…. your dad is white?” Our son looked at the child and then at his dad as if to say…. WOW!! He sure is!!!! He never noticed it before. I asked that son, now 27 years old, what he thought of his dad and I being in an interracial relationship. He replied, “Well I’m in one now, so I guess it doesn’t matter”. His girlfriend is of Hispanic descent. I asked our now 20-year-old son, “What would you say about interracial relationships, he replied, “It doesn’t matter. Mom, I notice a girl’s eyelash before I see her skin color”. He then said it’s about what’s in here {touching his heart} and here {touching his head}, that’s what really matters! If you were to ask either of us if we ever thought that we would date or marry someone outside of our race; I think we both would have had the same answer. “I don’t know, I never really thought about it”. What matters most when choosing a mate is that: 1) you both share the same philosophy on what is important, 2) that you enjoy being in each other’s company and that 3) you share the same morals, values and beliefs. Here we are 22 years later and he still makes me laugh………

Present 2023: We are coming up on our 35th year of marriage this month and he still makes me laugh!

Pictures Of My Beautiful Family.

Thank You For Letting Me Share!

Recipe From The Internet And Southern Living Magazine

•

Ingredients: Cake • • • • • •

• • • • • •

Nonstick cooking spray 1⅔cups granulated white sugar 2/3cup coconut oil 3large eggs 2¼cups cake flour 2/3cup unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-process) 1¼teaspoons baking soda 1teaspoon fine sea salt 1/2teaspoon baking powder 1⅓cups whole milk 1teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1cup shredded coconut, preferably Baker's Sweetened Angel Flake Coconut (optional)

Fluffy White Filling and Frosting (makes about 4½ cups; enough to fill and frost a 9-inch round layer cake) • • • •

•

1½cups granulated white sugar 1/2teaspoon cream of tartar 1/2cup water 1pinch fine sea salt 3large egg whites, at room temperature 1½teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1cup shredded coconut, preferably Baker's Sweetened Angel Flake Coconut

Preparation: FOR THE CAKE: 1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray the cake pans with baking spray. 2. Cream the sugar and coconut oil together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the sugar is completely integrated (it will be less fluffy than butter and sugar), 2-3 minutes. 3. With the mixer running, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stop the mixer and scrape down the side of the bowl as necessary.

4. Whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, salt and baking powder in a large bowl until well combined. 5.

Mix the milk and vanilla together in a small bowl. Add the flour mixture and the milk mixture alternately to the sugar mixture in small batches. Beat well after each addition. Beat on medium-low until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Stop the machine and scrape down the side of the bowl as necessary. 6. Divide the batter equally between the 2 prepared pans. Lightly tap each pan down on the counter to make sure the batter is evenly distributed and to remove excess air bubbles. 7. Bake until the layers pull away from the sides of the pans and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 30-35 minutes.

8. Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans onto wire cooling racks. Let cool for a couple of hours before filling and frosting. FOR THE FLUFFY WHITE FILLING AND FROSTING: 1. Place the sugar and cream of tartar in a heavy-bottomed 2-quart saucepan with a lid. Whisk to combine. Add the water and salt and place over medium heat. No need to stir the water and sugar. Bring to a boil, covered, without stirring, until the syrup spins a thin 8inch thread when poured from a spoon (242°F on a candy thermometer), 3-5 minutes. 2. While the syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites until they're stiff enough to hold a peak, 4-5 minutes. 3. Pour the hot syrup very slowly into the stiff egg whites, beating constantly. Add the vanilla and beat well. The frosting should look very fluffy.

4. Place one-third of the frosting in a separate bowl, add the coconut, and mix (this will become the filling between layers, the rest will frost the top and sides of the cake). TO ASSEMBLE: Working quickly, carefully trim a thin slice off the rounded tops of each layer to even them out. Turn 1 layer bottom side up and smooth the coconut filling onto the surface. Top with the second layer. Frost the side a scoop of frosting at a time, then smooth a layer of frosting on the top of the cake while the icing is still warm. If desired, sprinkle coconut on the top and sides of the cake.

Recipe From The Internet And Southern Living Magazine

Women are nurturing, courageous and assertive when they need to be. God make us that way. We are beautiful and wonderfully created by Him. We are special rubies cut in all different sizes and shapes. We are sweet, loving and full of hugs. When we enter a room, we shine, the red carpet makes way for us. We are the Queen of our castle to our King’s. The best of all, God loves us for who we are.

Evangelist Rosalind Harper

Courageous women are assertive. They know that taking a stand for what they believe in means using their voice. When courageous women see opportunities to make a positive impact, they speak up even when it is unpopular to do so. Courageous women understand the difference between assertiveness verses aggressiveness. Courageous women admit when they are wrong. Ther are self-aware enough to distinguish between their need to protect their ego and the importance of maintaining their integrity. Courageous women are capable of saying, “I’m sorry.”

Madeline Albright First Female- U.S. Secretary Of State

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from far. She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. She considered a field. And buyeth it; with the fruit of her hands, she planted a vineyard. She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengthen her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good; her candle goeth not out by night. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hands to the poor, yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of the snow for her household; for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She maketh herself covering of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivered girdles into the merchant. Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and her tongue is the law of kindness. She looked well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praised her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain; but a woman that fearth the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 31:10-31 KJV

Thank You, God, For Women!!

Evangelist Rosalind Harper

DA’Scentz Candles By Gerald Smith Jr. Lots Of Colors To Choose From!

Personalize your candle with your name or favorite saying Happy New Year Merry christmas

Actual Shape of the wine glass may be slightly different than the picture Sizes Medium & Large

Scents Available: Cinnamon Swirl Christmas Tree Sugar Cookie Pumpkin Bread Banana Bread Apple Bourbon Pumpkin

Contact me: Text or Call For Prices & Color Availability 520-982-5977

TECHNIQUE TIP: Line the sheet tray with a double layer of foil before baking the ham to make clean up easier. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!

Ingredients: • • • •

• • •

1(6- to 8-pound) spiral-sliced, bonein ham shank 1cup pure maple syrup 1/2cup dark molasses 2tablespoons whole-grain mustard, such as Old Brooklyn Cheese Company's "Cleveland Caviar" 1/2cup apple cider 1teaspoon red curry paste 1garlic clove, peeled and smashed

Preparation: 1.

Preheat the oven to 300 F.

2. Place ham on a foil-lined sheet tray and cover tightly with foil. Warm in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 120 F, about 1½ hours. 3. In the meantime, combine maple syrup, dark molasses, mustard, apple cider, curry paste and garlic in a saucepan over medium-low heat and simmer until reduced by about 1/3, 6 to 8 minutes.

4. Remove the ham from the oven and discard the top layer of foil. 5. Raise the oven temperature to 400 F. 6. Brush on a thick layer of glaze, place the ham back in the oven and roast, uncovered, for 10 minutes. 7. After 10 minutes, brush with another layer of glaze and continue to cook, 5 to 10 minutes more, until the glaze darkens and gets sticky, and the ham is completely heated through. 8. Remove from the oven and brush with any remaining glaze before serving.

Recipe From The Today Show

"The world is waiting for a change. Things will get better after while-after while," sang the New York Community Choir in the mid-seventies. However, as we look around our world today, we do not see things getting better; instead, we see things getting progressively worse. Actually, since our world is made up by people, we could correctly say that people are getting progressively worse. Then, in reality, we know that people get worse because of their very real sin nature, so then we can finally say that sin is making people get progressively worse. Indeed, the world is still waiting for change and that change won 't happen unless people change. We've got to change in order for things to get better. If we don't change, the things we now hear about and see will seem minute in regards to the things that will soon appear. There is really only one agent that is capable of making the necessary changes in us that need to be made. In other words, we need to change; but the process of making the change must be initiated and propelled by a power greater than ours. Once change has been implemented, it must be permanent. PERMANENT GODLY STANDARDS ALWAYS AFFECT SUCCEED ING GENERATIONS IN POSITIVE AND WHOLESOME WAYS'. There are three steps that I believe one can take in order to make necessary changes. These steps are: GROWTH, SACRIFICE, AND SURRENDER (or yielded Ness).

In the book of Romans, chapter 5, verses 1-5, the Apostle Paul gives us a pattern of change. "This pattern of change was very evident in his life because as Paul continued in ministry, we see stable growth as a result of his works. The pattern is simply this: tribulation, patience, experience, hope, boldness, growth. Many people want to grow and change in a right manner; however, they are not willing to go through the necessary steps in order to get to that change. The first part of change or growth is tribulation (tests or trials). If what you presently have is Godly, if what you've been taught in the scriptures is true, if what you are currently doing is righteous, then IT MUST BE TESTED! ALL PROPER GROWTH REQUIRES SOME AMOUNT OF DIFFICULTY'. After one has been tested, one becomes patient, and after one has acquired patience, then one can have experience. Experience in this sense simply is: having the wisdom to properly apply knowledge to effectively enhance or change an event. Most of our experts today really don't have the proper experience in dealing with other things because the knowledge they have has not been tested even in their own lives. Once we have experience, then we can have hope (a favorable outlook) and once we've obtained hope then we con be bold because we are no longer concerned about the outcome, for we know that it will all work out for our benefit. In other words, WE HAVE GROWN FROM ONE STAGE TO ANOTHER; WE HAVE CHANGED'. Secondly, there is another part of change that requires sacrifice. Think about this following statement! 1 WILL NOT SACRIFICE UNTIL 1 KNOW 1 AM RESPONSIBLE {and I will not take responsibility until I know I am accountable)! In order to change the world, we are going to have to be accountable and take responsibility for the mess that it is in. Great Biblical Heroes such as Nehemiah (the wall builder) and Jeremiah (the prophet) took responsibility for the sins of the people in order to complete their work. Sacrifice also involves a giving up, or letting go of something that is valuable to oneself in order to benefit someone else. St. John 3:16 lets us know that God so loved the world that he sacrificed (gave) his only begotten son for the benefit of the whole world (whosoever believes). God did not sacrifice second handed material; he gave the best that he had! We need to ask ourselves this question: ARE WE WILLING TO SACRIFICE THE BEST THAT WE HAVE IN ORDER TO CHANGE OUR WORLD? Finally, in order to change our world, we must surrender. We must surrender or be yielded to the will of God in order for corrected change to come. A biblical synonym for the word "yielded" is meek. The Bible says that meekness is part of the fruit of a born-again spirit and also that the meek shall inherit the earth. Meekness is not weakness, but it is self-willed unconditional surrender to Gods best for one's life. Meekness is always expressed best in love and love is the avenue that the meek ride upon. People, right now we live in an ugly world that desperately 86

needs change. Change can only come when we change. WILL WE STAND UP NOW AND MAKE THE NECESSARY CHANGES OR WILL WE DO NOTHING AND ALLOW OUR WORLD TO BECOME EVEN WORSE? WHAT WILL WE DECIDE?

Wills, Jr., William 0. "Changing Our World by Changing Ourselves. Rpt in HIS GRACE. Vol. 2, No. l. June 9-12,1999.6-7.

William Wills Jr. is the founder of the Racial Reconciliation Community Network Outreach (RRCON). The first conference was hosted in 1987. Over the years it has

become a great ministry. RRCON is all about breaking down dividing walls that separate God’s people and to bring a clearer cultural understanding to the masses of the ethnic believers all over the world. After the passing of Bishop Wills Jr., his parents William Sr. and Martha Wills continued to keep his vision alive by hosting RRCON conferences every year and investing in people. When Covid took the world by storm, they were no longer able to host the conferences. Though it has been years since the last RRCON Conference, the vision still continues. Martha and William Wills Sr. (AKA Mom and Pop) would like for you to know that there is so much more to come! To learn more about this great ministry, you can read the full story of how all of this came about in the 2015 issue of Sarah magazine. The link is provided. It’s All About God’s Mandate! Experience The Glory! John 17. We will carry on in Breaking Down Racial Barriers.

Martha T. Wills If you would like to contact Mr. and Mrs. Wills about RRCON send all inquiries to mysarahmagazine@gmail.com

https://issuu.com/home/published/sarahmagazinemay2015

No More Procrastination. Let’s Do This!

Contact me: Sheree Carradine, shereecarradine@yahoo.com or mysarahmagazine@gmail.com website: www.personalizeitsc.com

P.O.U.R. is an extension of My Tea Brand, Love In A Cup, Where Tea's A Vibe!

POUR STANDS FOR: P - Practice Self-Compassion O - Open Yourself To Possibilities U - Understand & Accept Yourself R - Refocus Your Energy On Caring For Yourself To Live Your Best Life. Pour is inspired by the tea pour into the teacup that signifies pouring into yourself. You are the vessel, and what you do or the action you take to self-love/self-care is you pouring into yourself. Love In A Cup | Where Tea's A Vibe is: @loveinacup_teavibe A tea brand that inspires I AM a specialist in tea, herbal & custom blends I craft remarkable tea experiences I demonstrate how to use tea/herbs as a self-care practice

•Tea brand that inspires •Specializes in tea |herbal| custom blends •Crafted tea experiences • Demonstrating how herbs can be used as a self-care

The Change Of The Seasons Is On Its Way …… The Change of the seasons is coming soon…… Detoxing your body, mind, and spirit before the change of seasons is an excellent way to prepare yourself for the transition. By doing so, you can help your body and mind to adapt more easily to the changes that come with the new season. In particular, detoxing can help boost your immune system and help you heal from the inside out, which is especially important as we head into fall and winter. One great way to support your immune system is by drinking herbal teas. There are many different types of herbal teas that can help boost immunity,

reduce inflammation, and support overall health. For example, Elderberry can help to stimulate the immune system, while ginger can help to reduce inflammation and fight off infections. Other great choices include burdock root, turmeric, and dandelion leaves. By building up your immunity with herbal teas before the fall and winter, you can help to protect yourself against colds, flu, and other illnesses. And by taking care of your body and mind in this way, you can enter into the new season feeling refreshed and revitalized, ready to take on whatever challenges and opportunities come your way. What are some of the ways you prepare for the change of the seasons? Looking for a natural way to detoxify and heal your body? My herbal tea blend " I AM HEALING" is just what you need!

The intention of this collection is to give you the tools and assistance you need to take control over your mind, body and spirit. To affirm yourself. What you speak over your life has the ability to manifest as you take action. Teas that affirm your spirit, uplift your mind and assist the body.... Because you are a whole person. Find my teas at www.loveinacupblends.com

Contact me: pourteaselfcarepractice@gmail.com

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By Tiffany Nakatani

“Come, Let Us Give Thanks” “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. 2. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. 3. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:1-4

The holiday season is in the air. Stores are advertising their many varieties of merchandise to fit every need for gift giving. You can hear the subliminal messages of the music playing overhead to get us in the mood to shop for the festivities of both Thanksgiving and Christmas. I can remember the smells of my mom and grandmom preparing their best culinary offerings for the family.

thanks for loved ones and friends that have gone to be with the Lord. What is important is that we give thanks EVERY day. It is exciting just to be alive. God blessed us with the gift of LIFE. What an honor, what a privilege to be alive, to be a child of God. We took our first breath because he ordained it to be so. What a powerful and loving God!

When I go to the grocery store now, I smell the cinnamon scented pinecones. I see all the seasonings and spices to season those special foods that we all love and enjoy. Delicious!

Each one of us is fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalms 139:14 says, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Thank you, Father!

It brings back good memories of family gathering to celebrate another year of giving thanks together. We will see family and friends we have not seen since last year or even longer. We also remember and give

We get together as family and friends on one incredibly special day. Families make sure that those who cannot afford the journey, financially, are given the finances

or transportation to make the journey. I believe past unhealthy behaviors are forgotten and even forgiven this time of year. These are beautiful gestures. If we choose to, we can give year-round and not just once a year. It is all about the posture of our hearts. As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas, remember to celebrate the greatest gift of all, salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ. You can celebrate this every day too. But this is the time of year when we intentionally pause to give thanks. We give gratitude.

Gratitude…. “Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer.” Maya Angelo

So, as I am thinking about the food and family, remembering to be thankful and to be full of gratitude, I cannot help but be reminded foremost of God sending us His Son. This is how I think about it: God said, “I have an idea in my mind which I have had since the world began. I will send my Son, my Only- begotten Son, and then give Him for the world’s redemption”. So, Jesus came, but men crucified Him upon Calvary. As He bled his life away upon the tree, God said, “It is my final and supreme sacrifice for man. I have done all that even I, God, can do. If men will not accept My Son as their Savior, I must give them up to their sins and they will be lost.” Why did God send His Son?

He sent His son to reveal His own heart. Through the years people had heard about God; they had felt His judgements; but they never knew His heart. They never knew how much he loved them. They never knew what kind of “GOD” he was. So, when He sent His son, He was saying to humankind, “Look at Jesus, My Son. Feel the warmth of His heart. See how he lives and loves and then you will know about Me, for My Son and I are One.” In other words, if we want a perfect picture of God, we/you must gaze into the face of the Lord Jesus Christ. That right there makes me want to shout! Makes me want to shout, “Thank you God!!!” He sent His Son to be a picture of His power. Did you know that Jesus did not bring all of God’s power down to earth? “Jesus put aside His own Godly power when he came into the world and relied on the indwelling of the Holy Spirit from his baptism, and his faith in God his Father. Luke 3:22-23 He emptied himself of a portion of it. Somewhat like a strong man with his hands tied behind his back, withholding part of his physical power. He kept a part of his physical power and some of his spiritual power and he always used it for others. Remember the blind man? He gave him sight. Remember the crippled man? He gave him a new body. The person with leprosy? He gave a cleansing. He brought the dead back to life. He gave hope and comfort to broken hearts. He quieted the storms and fed the multitudes!!! My God!!!! All of this was a picture of God’s

power which showed how God could touch men and help them up out of their sin.

He set all of this in motion, he had each and everyone of us in mind.

God sent Jesus to teach us a better way of living.

Finally, I read that before Christ’s first coming, God said that He would send Christ in the fulness of time. God fulfilled His Word. In the New Testament God tells us 318 times that His son is coming back to earth again. He is coming, not to live and then die, but to live and reign forever and ever. He did wonderful things when he was here the first time, but He will do MORE wonderful things when he comes the next time.

Man said, “If anyone harms you, you are to hurt him in return.” But Jesus said,” Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Hence, the Golden Rule. People ask if the Golden Rule really works. The real question is: Have YOU tried it out? Do YOU still use the old eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth? I have said all of this because we do have plenty to be thankful for, not just because the holidays are approaching, but because we should give thanks EVERYDAY. No matter what, we should always have thankfulness in our heart and praise on our lips. God has been so gracious, so kind, so loving, so merciful and even when we do not deserve it! He loves us so very much that He sent His Son, His Only Begotten Son, Jesus, to become a blood sacrifice. According to God’s plan there had to be a shedding of blood before sin could be forgiven. Hebrews 9:22 says, “Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission. In I John 1:7 it says, “The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin.” Jesus became our final sacrifice. It is not necessary that more blood be spilled because in His death He made salvation possible for all of us with no more sacrifice. Right now, wherever you are, whatever you are doing, whatever station of life you are in, you need to get up, look up, bow your head, if you can, get on your knees and give God the thanks that He deserves. No matter what your prayer posture is, talk to Him. Thank Him! When

My question to you is this: Do you belong to Him? Will you be ready when He comes? My prayer is that this “message” will touch your heart. I pray that when you gather with family and friends your Hallelujahs of praise and thanksgiving will be intentional! Ever Since Jesus Came into My Heart, (Titus 3:38) I have never been the same. I thank God for Jesus! I thank Him for my life and the opportunity to touch the lives of others. So, as you celebrate the up-and-coming holidays, think about your life, your family and those that may even be less fortunate. Pray for them. If you let just a bit of this “message” touch your hearts, I will be very thankful. Finally, give thanks to God for Jesus. “…. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:15-17 KJV

Reverand Donzella Berry,

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Recipe From: Divas Can Cook 99

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16 lb. turkey, thawed, inside packets removed 1 gallon buttermilk 8 tablespoons kosher salt 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning 6 cloves garlic, crushed 1 white onion, chopped

Refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 325. Rinse the brine off completely. Dry the turkey with paper towels until completely dry. Combine the salt and pepper and rub inside of the turkey cavity. Stuff the cavity with an apple and orange. Stuff the cavity with an apple and orange.

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1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 apple 1 orange

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1 stick butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning 1 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon basil ½ teaspoon thyme ½ teaspoon garlic flakes ½ teaspoon paprika

Combine the brine ingredients in a large bowl. Line a large bowl, pot or bucket with an oven roasting bag. Place the turkey into the bag and pour in the brine. Tie the bag, making sure all the air is out and the buttermilk brine is completely surrounding the turkey.

Stuff the cavity with an apple and orange. Combine all of the seasoned butter ingredients. Brush this butter mixture generously onto the turkey, until covered with butter. Reserve some of the butter if desired. Place turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Place on the lower rack in the oven and bake uncovered for 3 hours and 45 minutes to 4 hours. Cover with foil for the last 45 minutes (if you are content with the browning) and also remove the apple and orange at this point. Remove from oven when done. Let rest for 20 minutes.

Enjoy!

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