Spring 2012, Edition
Father, I ask You to bless, encourage, and help those that are reading this magazine in whatever area of their lives they need to be blessed, encouraged, and helped. Enlighten and motivate them through the articles to live healthier lives . . . so that they will feel better; be indelibly delightful . . . so that they can spread Your joy to others; be glamorous . . . so that they will make a lasting impression; and be beautiful on the inside . . . so that they can change their world. Strengthen them to do whatever they have to do to live long and live strong. Help them to celebrate who they are now, and where they are now, with the hope that the best is yet to come. Help them not to worry about anything, but live one day at a time, believing and trusting that You will give them what they need each day. Last of all, I ask You to reveal Yourself to those that don’t know You, so that they can have a personal relationship with You through Jesus Christ. In Jesus Name.
Pray before you begin reading this issue of Simply Me Magazine; Ask the Lord to reveal truth to your heart
Spring 2012, Edition
Vivian Clark
CEO
Kaaya Bond Bond-- Nunn
Executive Director
Veronica Cunningham
Spiritual Liaison / Resource Director
LaTosha Hamilton
Spokesperson
Carol Lawson
Contract Negotiating
Cassandra Collins
Senior Financial Officer
Kimberly Midgett
Senior Executive Assistant
Natasha Whiteman
Executive Assistant
Ossie Jackson
Marketing
Bridget Taylor
Marketing Director
Sharon A. Scott
Development Director
Anita Jackson
Chief Editor
Louis Lewis
Design & Layout
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Ashley Forbin . . . . . . . Photographer
U NIQUELY D ESIGNED When you find out who you really are and your God -given purpose, you will not only like yourself, you will love yourself. 10 S T O P P L A Y I N
To speed up your metabolism, you need to space out your meals to 5 – 6 small meals per day, or eat every 2 – 3 hours.
12 “ Y O U K N O W W H A T ? ”
Let me put it this way. You may look like a million bucks on the outside, but have nothing of true value on the inside.
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F ROM L OVE TO W AR I called on law enforcement to assist me in returning my son home, however, was unsuccessful in my many attempts.
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S O W HO I S REALLY L OVING W HO The stage play affects both those inside and outside the church, as well as her views about religion, real life and infidelity.
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W ATCH O UT F OR W EAR AND T EAR “I take better care of my car than I do my own body.” I must motivate myself to take better care of my body, because being short of breath walking to the car or porch, is not cool at all.
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JAMMIN F OUNDATION To us, speaking and being heard is more than just verbal, we afford young men and women a chance to fully express themselves through activities that build character and s e l ff-- c o n f i d e n c e .
Special Thanks:
x x x
B EAUTY AND S IMPLICITY Mascara is simply the icing on the cake – it is what makes the eyes look “wide open”.
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Ingrid Bailey . . . . . . . .Make -Up Artist Yvonne Jones . . . . . . . Make -Up Artist
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INDELIBLY DELIGHTFUL CHALLENGE! This kind of joy comes from drugs, alcohol, or some other outside stimuli. But, the joy that I am talking about --which is the only real and lasting joy -----comes comes from GOD. ARE YOU SAVED “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden. But you must never eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil because when you eat from it, you will certainly die.”
14 F O R R E S T G U M P G O E S T O H E A V E N We have heard a lot about you. I must tell you, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we have been administering an entrance examination for everyone . 20
33 W HO D O Y OU T HINK Y OU A RE ?
We must think we are like God before we will be like God outwardly, for as one “thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7 AMP). However, we cannot think we are like God, without first knowing what God is like . . .
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W HAT D O Y OU K NOW A BOUT
FASHION SHOW—PHOTOS A black tie & red carpet fashion show. The invitation, the invited rejoiced, the volunteers stood in the gap and God was acknowledged in all the show w.. B EGINNERS G UIDE T O B EING C HEAP Unplug your dryer. That lint you see is from your clothes slowly being disintegrated by all the tumbling if you do use a dryer, zip up metal zippers, before they mug other garments.
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T HE B IGGEST L OOSER Not many people knew how this challenge would be, but for those who followed the mantra: “just trust the process”, the results were spectacular.
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L IVE L IFE & L AUGH Q: You have your hands full with the entertainment business and a mother so when was the last time you did a household chore? A: I washed a few loads of clothes, took out the trash and washed the dishes earlier today.
46 E MPOWERING W OMEN F OR G REATNESS
Workshops and training sessions for small groups, women organizations, special event breakout sessions and business women networks. The workshop and training session in her ministry improves each individual‘s well-being through self-awareness resulting in a total spiritual healing
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M Y D EAR S ISTERS The fashion industry has realized that we are beautiful and design clothing with our frames in mind and they finally realize " One Size DOES NOT FIT ALL".
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EXPLORING OUR ATTITUDES ABOUT EATING When you look down at your body, what do you see? Forget thin, is it healthy? What is the measure of health? Do you have high blood pressure? Diabetes? Can you walk from one end of the grocery store to the other without breathing heavy? Without having to rest ?
M ETABOLIC S NYDROME ? *Does a waist measurement of 40 inches (for men) and 35 inches (for women) or larger, and associative blood pressure readings of >135/85, and a fasting blood sugar of >100, and a total cholesterol level >240 combined with a BMI score of >25 >25--35 altogether represent the five (5) signs of MS? 35
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WEIGHTS ARE MEANT TO BE LIFTED I realized that my relationship with Food was weighing heavily, very heavily on me. It appeared that I had unwittingly gone from one toxic relationship to another. ABIGAIL A WOMAN OF WISDOM David set out to kill Nabal, but God gave Abigail the wisdom to know what to do in the instant a decision had to be made. What David was about to do was wrong and Nabal was wrong also however two wrongs don’t make a right?
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A MERICAN J OBS Have you ever wondered why you or someone you know can’t find a good paying American job?
14 H Y M N S F O R T H E P R O F E S S I O N A L Song titles for your working titles. Hymns For The Highway Song titles for those on the road d..
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A L IVELY H OPE an unbreakable contract contract— —is between God, the Father and Jesus Christ. H OW I H AVE O VERCOME MANY O BSTACLES IN MY L IFE There are those whose drug of choice is cocaine, cannabis, or alcohol. My drug of choice was food.
Ad & Article submissions: Vivian Clark k-- C E O Mailing Address: P.O. Box 542703 Dallas TX. 75354 214 4-- 2 7 4 4-- 3 4 1 3 Vivian@SimplyMeMagazine.com www.SimplyMeMagazine.com
Introduction of A Vision Vivian Clark CEO Encouraged - Alley Carter Carter--Dailey
On October 31st , 1959 in Corsicana, Texas gave a whole new meaning to ―trick or treat‖, in the eyes of one mother who was just handed a bouncing baby girl.
find my streams. I was instructed to have many streams all working at one time, so that more than one of them could produce a flow that would become profitable. I was further instructed to go beyond I can only wonder how what I was use to when such a privilege can be I create these streams, given to me, and try to in other words come out put it into words of my comfort zone and something that will help be brave enough to try you understand how I things I have never tried stepped out of a dream before. Well, at least I and into reality. Some thought it was for me people can tell you of until I finally how they met realized that an a woman who most of their invisible force sat friends - that in our midst and I would not be the never lets the was listening to the case here. inter inter--dialogue of a I will only say prevailing vision and that I that a divine was not there at all, intervention took opinion divert at least not for that place some few moment. And then years ago and we you even an inch it happened, she still give thanks came back to earth. for it today. What
from the course Many months of I can recall is a brunch that conversations somehow you think is right passed after that became a encounter and then meeting as I sat one day my phone at the table in a rang and on the other restaurant and listened end I heard ―blessed to a very serious woman, you are not conversation. I was told going to believe what I that I had to search and was told to do.‖ All the
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while I am thinking to myself, girlfriend you are a champion of unpopular causes; a woman who never lets the prevailing opinion divert you even an inch from the course you think is right, and before I could finish my thought she said, I am to start a magazine. Need I say more? It has been said that friends are for a reason, a season or a lifetime just let it happen. I count it all joy that I have one who is a stream maker, a dream chaser, who travelled the roads of decisions to one day conquer a vision that some would only call a dream yet the reality of it is this magazine. It is my honor to introduce to you an upright, bad to the bone, or better said Virtuous woman I call ―Vee‖ and her Vision *****SIMPLY ME ME---Excuse --Excuse me, this is not just another magazine. I hope you enjoy the reality as much as I do.
Alley Carter Carter--Dailey
Aka ―Blessed Woman‖
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Beauty and Simplicity Makeup Tips - Ingrid Bailey
These days for the average woman, simplicity really makes all the difference. Getting “dolled up”, doesn’t have to become a hassle every time you have somewhere to go. Whether you are looking for all all--out glamour or the girl next door gorgeous – here are some tips to bring out your inner “Glamazon”. For shine – free complexion: Mortifying products are a must have, in order to decrease shine. Use mortifying primer under make make--up, and apply evenly over entire face. Use oil free foundation Dust translucent powder over foundation to absorb oil. Apply mattifying cream/gel over makeup unto areas that are most oily. Typically the T T--Zone area (forehead, nose, and chin). For a stand out smile, red lips are the ultimate way to make your lips take center stage. To land the perfect scarlet pout: Apply a Crimson lipstick directly on to clean Page 8
lips, and blot with tissue. Apply lip liner that matches the shade of your lipstick. Use a red or medium brown pencil to shade the lips slightly, this will keep your color from “bleeding” and make your lips look precise. Make sure your lipstick doesn’t end up on your pearly whites by gliding some petroleum jelly over your teeth. I like to recommend choosing a blue blue--based red lipstick; these shades make your teeth look whiter!!! For elegant eyes: If you want to call attention to your eyes, remember these three words: eyebrows, eyeliner, and eyelashes. Your eyebrows are your frames, so they must be sculpt. Brush the arches of your brows, and coat with a clear brow gel. When it comes to liner, be sure to rim the entire perimeter of the eyes. Draw the line thicker toward the outside of the eyes, and thinner close to the tear ducts. Pg 11
Uniquely Designed Pastor Veronica Cunningham
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made . . ” (Psalms 39:14) “. . . . Every day {of my life} was recorded in your book before one of them had taken place.” (Psalms 139:16 GW) Did you know that you are uniquely designed by God to be a unique individual with a unique purpose? The word unique is defined as “being the only one of its kind; having no like or equal.” After God created you, He threw away the mold. There is none like you. You are a truly unique person designed by the Great Designer to do great things that can only be done by
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you. Don’t try to be someone other than the person God created you to be. Don’t take on another person’s identity because you don’t like who you are. You cannot fulfill another person’s God God--given purpose. You can look and act like someone else, but you cannot do what they do, with ease, because you have not been given the abilities, gifts, and talents they have been given to fulfill their purpose. Likewise, no one else can fulfill your purpose because they have not been given the abilities, gifts, and talents you have been given to fulfill your purpose.
The reason you don’t like who you are is because you don’t know who you are. When you find out who you really are and your God God--given purpose, you will not only like yourself, you will love yourself. God said in His Word, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV) God has the plan for your life, therefore, you must connect to Him in order to find out who He has destined you to be and what He has destined you to do. I remember how I felt before I connected to God through Jesus Christ. (John 14:6)
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Health & Fitness Tips - Curtis Clark
Yeah okay, I know what you’re thinking. You’re reading this article, and saying to yourself, “here’s another one of those fad diet plans”. But it’s nothing like that this time around. In this article, I’ll show you how to put together a meal plan that will help you get into better shape, and even drop a ton of unwanted body fat. Ok, let’s get started. First of all we have to get your metabolism to work, by doing this we have to speed it up. To speed up your metabolism, you need to space out your meals to 5 – 6 small meals per day, or eat every 2 – 3 hours. This will keep your metabolism going, decrease your appetite throughout the day, and cause you to eat less. Secondly, you need to consume your carbohydrates. Lowering your carbs will cause your body to burn more fat, and with no carbs to burn, you will begin burning fat immediately. Remember to consume most of your carbs at breakfast time. This will supply your body with enough energy to get through the day.
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Next, get your proteins in. While doing so, your metabolism is going, fat is burning efficiently, and you’re keeping your muscle. It is very important that you eat as much protein as possible while losing weight. Drink plenty of water. It is very important when dieting or losing weight. Water will flush all the toxins, and waste from your body. It is also an appetite suppressant which will help burn off stored fat. Really, water is the most important thing in losing body fat, and actually keeping it off. Last of all, is your cardio. Exercising is an important factor in losing weight. For good results, do your cardio 4 days a week for at least 20 minutes, to start. Then gradually max out at 45 minutes a work work--out. The best time to do your cardio workout, is when you first wake up in the morning. Do this before you eat any food. Your body will burn fat faster, than if you eat first. Now give this program a try. Apply yourself, stay focused, and good luck.
To speed up your metabolism, you need to space out your meals to 5 – 6 small meals per day, or eat every 2 – 3 hours.
From
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Mascara is simply the icing on the cake – it is what makes the eyes look “wide open”. Coat the lashes with black mascara, and then add additional mascara to the outer corners. This trick will elongate the eyes, making them look bigger. If you are makeup savvy, try adding false lashes as well. For Contoured Cheeks: The easiest way to highlight and contour cheek bones is to use a palette with light and dark colors. The best way to contour is to make a “fish face”. Sweep a dark shade along the hollow of cheeks. Apply a lighter color on top
of cheek bones to highlight. Smooth pink or peach lush directly on the apples of the cheeks. Use a powder brush to blend all the shades softly into one another so that the end results look natural. If you follow these steps you should be the “Glamazon” of the evening. Ingrid Bailey found her desire and inspiration for beauty and makeup during her teenage years in Shreveport, LA. After moving to Dallas, TX at the age of 19, is when she felt the passion and love for makeup. And as an adult is when she knew she wanted
to be a makeup artist. With over five years of experience, her goal is always to master the right look which is "Simply Flawless", and to bring out the natural beauty of her subject no matter the gender, ethnicity or character portrayal. She has worked on a variety of projects including fashion shows, stage/theatre, bridal and modeling shoots. She currently lives in Dallas, TX with her two children.
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“You Know What?” Minister Kernyce Kindred
You know what? You’re not perfect. It took me a long time to realize that it was alright to make mistakes. The key is to learn from your mistakes in order to not repeat them. Turn mistakes into stepping stones of opportunity, and not stumbling blocks of destruction. I had to realize the biggest mistake, was trying to be perfect. In the futile attempt of being perfect, some valuable opportunities were missed. For instance, I was afraid to fail, therefore, I didn’t take chances. The secret is in the trying, for if we try, we allow ourselves to grow. As we grow, we make room for new challenges, and greater opportunities for greater rewards. When we are no Page 12
longer wanting, or willing to try; we not only fail ourselves, but others around us as well. We all have a designed purpose; we are here for each other. In essence, there is no me without you. Whatever your purpose, it is essential to my being. As a songwriter, Hezekiah Walker wrote, “I need you to survive”. I had to stop beating myself up for the things I could not do, and start focusing on the things I could do. I stopped comparing myself to others. I am not, and will never be, a star like Oprah. I will never sing like Diana Ross, or dance like the late Michael Jackson. I had to realize, and recognize, the unique creation that I am. There is no one else like me. No one else can do the things that I am created to do. If I do not seize the opportunity to be me - no one else can.
“You Know What” “Natural beauty is only skin deep; true beauty dwells within.” That’s what my mother would tell me, and my sisters while we were growing up. While you were busy getting dressed this morning, brushing your teeth, and making sure the hair was just right, trying that new shade of lipstick and hoping to make a lasting impression. Maybe trying to catch someone’s eye, but have you ever stopped to wonder how you look on the inside? Let me put it this way. You may look a million bucks on the outside, but have nothing of true value on the inside. I remember once when I was young, I was taking a class that dealt with how you felt about yourself. There were about ten of us, just about that preteen age.
From
The teacher asked one of my friends if she was self conscious about her braces. I was so surprised, cause I hadn’t noticed before. “You have braces? Did you just get them?” I asked. “No”, my friend said, “I’ve had them for a long time. “ “Wow, I never noticed!” I exclaimed. The biggest smile came across her face. I’ll never forget it. I truly, had never noticed her braces, until it was mentioned. If you will take the time to see the beauty in others; others will see the real beauty in you.
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I was so empty inside. I felt like I had no purpose for living I didn’t know who I was. I thought I was an alcoholic, drug addict, and several other bad things that I did. I did not like me at all, and I tried to destroy me through drugs, alcohol, and a promiscuous lifestyle. At times, I pursued ideas of someone I thought I wanted to be, but I always ended up failing because I was trying to be someone God had not designed me to be. It was only after I connected to God through Jesus Christ, that I found out who I was and my God God--given purpose. After 28 years of being connected to the Great Designer, I am still discovering abilities, gifts, and talents God put in me when He formed me in my mother’s womb. God said to the prophet Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5 NIV). Now, I can truly say that I know who I am and I love the person God has uniquely designed me to be. Don’t deprive God, family, friends, neighbors, co co--workers and the world of your uniqueness. We want you to be you and not someone else. We are all waiting on you to fulfill your God God--given purpose and be that uniquely designed individual the Great Designer destined you to be.
A Lively Hope Minister Kernyce Kindred
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto A Lively Hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (I Peter 1:3, italics mine) I have some good news. A Lively Hope is now available for everyone! A Lively Hope is living hope in something that is alive, infallible and always capable of producing a positive outcome. A Lively Hope is supernatural hope that far exceeds mere human hope. This kind of hope is not thwarted by what is perceived with the senses, therefore, you will always be able to eagerly anticipate good things happening in your life – regardless of what people do, or what your circumstances are. A Lively Hope will be an anchor for your soul 24/7, which is something we all need in these uncertain times. (Hebrews 6:19) Read on, and find out how you
can have A Lively Hope!
with our senses —A Lively Hope. senses—
The above mentioned scripture states that A Lively Hope is now available for us because Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. We could not have A Lively Hope before Jesus was raised from the dead, because the source of A Lively Hope –a blood covenant —was covenant— not activated until after Jesus was raised from the dead. This blood covenant —an covenant— unbreakable contract —is contract— between God, the Father and Jesus Christ. We too, can become partakers of this covenant when we repent — repent— change the way we think and act —believe in Jesus Christ for act— what He has done for us, and confess Jesus Christ as our Lord. (Acts 3:19, 16:30 16:30--31; Romans10:9) Subsequently, we become legitimate partners with Christ in a blood covenant with the Almighty God, and receive the capability of hoping beyond what we can perceive
If you own a Bible, you have a copy of the blood covenant we have with God through Jesus Christ. That’s right! The covenant is in the Bible, and it is filled with precious promises from God, to you for every facet of your life. (II Peter 1:4) You can fill your heart with A Lively Hope by consistently reading the Bible, mainly –but not only —in the New only— Testament, which is the new blood covenant that we have with God through Jesus Christ. Put your hope in this blood covenant, for it is alive and powerful. It will always produce what it says. (Hebrews 4:12 AMP) Read the covenant and believe what it says. In doing so, you give God access into your life, to perform that which you’re hoping and believing for. Don’t stagger —at the waver— —waver stagger— promises of God through unbelief, but be fully persuaded Page 15
A merican Jobs Pg 15
that God is able to perform that which He has promised in the covenant. (Romans 4:17 4:17--21). For the covenant says, “God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power {of the covenant} that worketh in us”. (Ephesians 3:20, insertion mine) God is a Promise Keeper! The Bible says, “God is not like people. He tells no lies. He is not like humans. He doesn’t change His mind. When He says something, He does it. When He makes a promise, He keeps it”. (Numbers 23:19 GW) So, keep on hoping in the covenant, and be not moved by what your senses are telling you, but be moved by what you believe. Believe in God.
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Humor Repeated by Louis Lewis
John Smith started the day early
he sat down with his
having set his
calculator
alarm clock
(MADE IN MEXICO )
(MADE IN JAPAN )
to see how much he could spend
for 6 am. While his coffeepot (MADE IN CHINA ) was perking, he shaved with his electric razor (MADE IN HONG KONG ) He put on a dress shirt (MADE IN SRI LANKA ) designer jeans (MADE IN SINGAPORE ) and tennis shoes (MADE IN KOREA ) After cooking his breakfast in his new electric skillet (MADE IN INDIA )
today. After setting his watch (MADE IN TAIWAN ) to the radio (MADE IN INDIA ) he got in his car (MADE IN GERMANY ) filled it with GAS (FROM SAUDI ARABIA ) and continued his search for a good paying AMERICAN JOB. At the end of yet another discouraging and fruitless day checking his Computer (MADE IN MALAYSIA )
From Love to War Nicole Foxx
Couples enter a marriage arrangement for many reasons ranging from: love, security, to building a family, obligation and in some third world countries from prearrangement. My reason for marrying my husband was a mixture of love, security and starting a family. Prior to his engagement proposal, we had already planned for our family additions. In the midst of the excitement of planning a wedding, planning a pregnancy and being “in love” neither of us had considered what would happen to our prospective child if our marriage failed and plummeted into divorce. After I bore my son, one and a half years into our marriage we faced what many
couples face; communication and financial problems amongst others. After two years of marriage, came divorce filings. During our separation, my husband took our child from our home and kept from me for several weeks. With that being said and with 50% of all marriages ending in divorce within the first two years, it’s the smart thing to have a custody arrangement even while married. Its damage control, which can save couples thousands of dollars in court costs, a nasty custody battle and immeasurable heartache. Why was this? The law states that when parents are married both parties have equal right to the child. Therefore, the police cannot take the child from one parent to give to the other. As lagging as the judicial system is, it can take months to have a temporary custody order in place and years for a permanent custody ruling. With that being said and with 50% of all marriages ending in divorce within the first two years, it’s the smart things to have a custody arrangement even while married.
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Marketing Your Business Your Way Your Customer Satisfaction Is Our Goal Bridget Taylor 214-650-9704 Page 17
So Who Is Really Loving Who Religion, Real Life, Infidelity - Ms. Lynda J
Caught up with Ms. Lynda J after her stage play, Who’s Loving Who, closed its first showing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I wanted to hear from the playwright firsthand to hear how audiences outside her hometown of Dallas, Texas were responding to her new and controversial stage play. TED: So how did you feel about the response you got after the viewing of the play in Baton Rouge? MLJ: It felt great. I was a bit nervous about taking the show on the road. After the amazing response we got in Dallas, TX and Garland TX I felt like the world was ready to hear my message.
TED Ted, who’s writing alias is an acronym for MLJ: In this play my The Eyes of message challenges Dallas, is a conventional, or shall freelance I say, traditional, writer who thought. My message reports on up and coming is one that stimulates talent in the a person’s thought areas of arts patterns, but more and importantly allows entertainment, them to draw their own conclusions about as well as city TED: And what would you consider to be your message?
infidelity in the church. There are a lot of people dealing with real issues. Religion can help or hurt the individual. With this stage play I try to uncover the traditional perceptions an individual may have. I try to confront a reality that many people won’t address. As a Christian, while not being perfect, there is a pursuit of maturity.
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Although there is a pursuit of maturity, there are some things that are not acceptable. In writing this play I chose to challenge those limits. TED: So how did you come up with the name Silenced No More Productions as the name for your production company? MLJ: Well, I’m not any different than the next woman. I’ve always wondered how my mother
carried out so many responsibilities and wore so many different hats and juggled so many different balls, all without missing a beat. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that women have this deep inner strength that can be tapped into. Like many other women, as I went through my challenges in my relationship, I was quiet and I suffered. It was during that time of internal reflecting that I
Silenced No More Religion, Real Life, Infidelity - Ms. Lynda J
understood the healing process would require that I share my pain. Thus, in speaking about the imperfections in my life, I not only would be silenced no more, but I would be helping others confront and overcome the real challenges they are facing. TED: You mentioned the “challenges” in your relationship. What kind of challenges were you facing? MLJ: (Laughing) You saw the play. You’ll have to just answer that question for yourself. TED: Have you written and produced any other theatrical productions? MLJ: I produced my first play in 1996. Just Once was my
first play that was based upon some tragic circumstances that took place during my years as a youth. It was very therapeutic for me to write about my personal life. Besides Just Once I have written, The Stripper, Passing It On, If I Don’t Pray For Them and He Gets What He Wants. Actually, He Gets What He Wants is my next production. While I am extremely excited about the new production, the growing popularity of Who’s Loving Who is equally exciting. In fact, it is allowing me to enjoy this ride that I am on. I feel like I am right where I am supposed to be at this present time. Knowing that, and having the confidence in where I am right now, is
allowing me, just enjoy this special place.
In this special edition Ted catches up with Ms. Lynda J to discuss her riveting stage play “Who’s Loving Who” and the stage play’s effects on both those inside and outside the church, as well as her views about religion, real life and infidelity.
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Watch For Wear and Tear Vivian Clark - CEO
Wear and tear comes with time: such as with a car or a house. When the light goes out in our car, or the roof begins to leak in our house, we make great effort to get these things repaired. We look around for the right mechanic, plumber, or carpenter, not really caring how costly the work may be, because we think of these things as necessities. Well, have we forgotten that our bodies are also a necessity, and may require repairs at times? Of course, wear and tear will occur as we get older, but I’m talking about the wear and tear that comes because we don’t take proper care of our bodies. We need our bodies to be in good health, so that our activities
won’t be limited in this world. Why is it so hard for us to take care of our bodies like we take care of our house or our car? When our clothes get too small, do we ever think that maybe something inside of our bodies need to be fixed, or do we just go out and buy a bigger size? Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! The Bible says that our bodies are temples that the Holy Spirit dwells in. I can’t even imagine what He thinks of some of the bodies that He dwells in. I wonder how disappointed He is. Sometimes, I say to myself, “I take better care of my car than I do my own body.” There is something definitely wrong with this picture. I must motivate myself to take better
H ORIZONTAL C ABLE P ULLING (HT CP)
care of my body, because being short of breath walking to the car or porch, is not cool at all. One of my pastors said, “if you keep doing what you’re doing, you’re going to keep getting what you’re getting.” As I keep living, the wear and tear on my body is going to come because I’m getting older; it’s unavoidable. What I am trying to avoid is the wear and tear that comes because I’m out of shape. So, I need to look at myself and say, “you are beautifully and wonderfully made; get up and do something!” Let’s start today, by putting one foot in front of the other. Let’s see how much better we can feel and look as we go through life a little further. V
Your custom electronic, design, integration, convergence, and consulting company for the smart premise using automation technology. Installing security, energy management, and comfort for the Small Office/Home Office (SO/HO) & small church with audio, video, voice, data, VoIP. Using today's technology on a scalable platform, allowing growth without buying a whole new system as you grow. www.HorizontalNet.com
Jammin Foundation Jammin Foundation Foundation--Dallas President - KeJohnna Owens
We at the Jammin need to be heard. By listening to Foundation see a wide gap in the them, their concerns, youth of today and the leadership their hopes, their of tomorrow, bridging that gap is dreams as well as of the utmost importance. their fears, we believe Leaders are sorely needed, and that in their hearts as we have witnessed over the and minds lie the past two decades, there is answers we have a huge disconnect between been unable to the leaders of today and answer for them. those that are in desperate The Jammin need of direction towards a The Jammin Foundation is not better tomorrow. For far Foundation School only about hearing too long, too many of us what the young of Arts and have watched from the people that we sidelines as our young men want to help have Science, we will and women have become to say, we are also the life blood of the prison develop young men about affording industry, the drug culture and young women them an as well as the opportunity to say self self--destructive culture and into the leaders that what they need to nature of gang life. will lead this world say in the very With love and unique and tomorrow compassion, each and individual ways in which they speak. every member of the To us, speaking and Jammin Foundation has being heard is more committed him or herself to the betterment of our youth than just verbal, we with one unique difference afford young men that many mentor and women a organizations have chance to fully neglected to understand, we at express themselves through the Jammin Foundation believe activities that build character that our young people want and and self self--confidence. Our goal is
to tap into the very spirit of the young men and women of whom we mentor in order to bring their beautifully and uniquely created spirits to life through their natural born talents. Through the use of and exposure to our nationwide schools, The Jammin Foundation School of Arts and Science, we will develop young men and young women into the leaders that will lead this world tomorrow as they forge forward in careers that will, not only facilitate the financial necessities they will need for the betterment of their families, but also with the self self--confidence that will enable them to become leaders that help build other leaders.
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Are You Saved? Pastor Veronica Cunningham
God blessed man to
disobedience were these: their
torches and rushed into the
have every good and
spirits died instantly because
jail. He was trembling as he
perfect gift (Genesis
they separated themselves
knelt in front of Paul and
1:28; 2:8 2:8--12; James
from God --Who God---Who is life; the Holy
“The jailer asked for
Silas. Then he took Paul and
1:17). There was no evil in the
Spirit left them; the nature of
Silas outside and asked, “Sirs,
earth --no earth---no sickness, poverty, or
God -spirit---which God---which was in their spirit
what do I have to do to be
death. The Bible says in
was replaced with the nature
saved?” (Acts 16:29 16:29--30, GW)
Genesis 1:31, MSG, that “God
of Satan; they were instantly
looked over everything He had
transformed into mortal beings
God’s will that everyone be
made; it was so good, so very
and began to die physically;
saved? God says in 1 Timothy
good! . . . .”
Satan became their god and
Did you know that it is
2:4, GW, that “He wants all
In Genesis 2:16 2:16--17, GW,
people to be saved and to learn
“The Lord God commanded the
the truth.” The word “saved” in
man. He said, “You are free
this verse of scripture means
to eat from any tree in the
“deliver.” What is it that God
garden. But you must never
wants all people to be delivered
eat from the tree of the
from? To fully understand the
knowledge of good and evil
answer to that question, let’s
because when you eat from
take a trip back in time to when
it, you will certainly die.”
God created the first man and
Then the serpent,
woman, according to the Bible.
possessed by Satan, deceived
In the beginning, God
Eve into eating fruit from the
created man man--female---male --male and female
tree of the knowledge of good
having His nature, His Spirit, a
and evil, and “ . . . she took
free will, and the ability to live
of the fruit thereof, and did
forever (Genesis 1:26 1:26--27; 2:7).
eat, and gave also unto her
God gave man dominion -dominion--
husband with her; and he
rulership rulership--over all of creation
did eat.” (Genesis 3:6; I Timothy
and over all the earth with the
2:14).
intention of setting up His
consequences that occurred
-as it is in heaven (Genesis --as
because of Adam and Eve’s
Page 22
2 Corinthians 4:4); they became the servants of Satan and sin (Romans 6:16 -17, 20); their dominion over all of creation and over all of the earth was given to Satan (Luke 4:5 4:5--6); they were cursed with sickness, poverty, and death (Deuteronomy 28:15 28:15--68; Romans 5:12); and they were doomed to spend eternity separated from God (Luke 16:19 16:19--26). Sadly, the consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin came upon all mankind because Adam had all of humanity within him
Some of the devastating
kingdom on earth --through earth---through man 1:26; Matthew 6:10).
father (John 8:44;
when he sinned --we sinned---we all came from him. In the mind of God, when Adam and Eve sinned
against Him, all of mankind
2:21 2:21--24). The Bible says in
confess with your
sinned against Him (Romans
Isaiah 53:4 53:4--5, NLT, “ . . . And
mouth that Jesus
3:23). Humanity was thrust
we thought His troubles were
is Lord and
into a terrible predicament,
a punishment from God, a
believe in your
one in which we could not
punishment for His own sins!
heart that God
deliver ourselves out of
But He was pierced for our
raised Him from
because of our spiritual con-
rebellion, crushed for our
the dead, you will be saved.”
dition. Only someone outside
sins. He was beaten so we
For it is by believing in your
of humanity could rescue us
could be whole. He was
heart that you are made right
from this dilemma.
whipped so we could be
with God, and it is by
healed.“ He went to hell in
confessing with your mouth
to rescue us and pay the
our place, and on the third
that you are saved. (Romans
price for our eternal
day He arose from the dead
10:9 10:9--10, NLT.)
deliverance? Only one
and is alive forevermore
person --in Himself---Love person---in the --Love Himself
(Matthew 12:40; I Corinthians
then you can experience the
person of Jesus Christ
15:3 15:3--4).
reality of your deliverance
Who loved us enough
Once you are saved,
(I John 4:8). The Bible says,
The Bible says in
“For God loved the world so
Galatians 1:4, NLT, that
your sins. The Bible says in
much that He gave His one
“Jesus gave His life for our
2 Corinthians 5:17, AMP, that
and only Son, so that
sins, just as God our Father
the person who is saved “ . . .
everyone who believes in Him
planned, in order to rescue
is a new creation (a new
will not perish but have
us from this evil world in
creature altogether); the old
eternal life.” (John 3:16, NLT,
which we live.” Thank God!
[previous moral and
italics mine.) God, in the
Now you will
from the consequences of
spiritual condition} has
person of Jesus Christ, came
understand the answer to the
passed away. Behold, the
to this earth as a man to
question above: what is it that
fresh and new has come!”
rescue mankind from the
God wants all people to be
consequences of their sins
delivered from? God wants
(2 Corinthians 5:19). Jesus “ .
are not saved -saved--
all people to be delivered
. . bare our sins in His own
don’t delay --do delay---do
from the consequences of
body on the tree . . . . ” and
it today! Your
their sins, which deliverance
took upon Himself the
Heavenly
He has provided --for provided---for
punishment for our sins
Father is
everyone --through everyone---through Jesus
(Philippians 2:5 2:5--8; I Peter
waiting on you!
Christ. Therefore, “If you
If you
Page 23
What Do You Know About — Metabolic Syndrome? Ken L. Johnson, RN, BSN
“Metabolic Syndrome”? Sounds a bit scary, right? Maybe along the lines of a sci-fi horror thriller. And therefore, also a bit complicated as well. Indeed, while there are certain aspects of this malady that should be of concern for anyone being affected, once one comes to some knowledge and understanding about the workings of the various factors involved, it becomes much less complicated and actually more simple to confront. So what is Metabolic Syndrome (M.S.)? And what does it entail? Moreover, what meaning might it hold for you? Let’s take an informative little quiz to gain some insight and perspective about the matter. Now be mindful that the learning curve here can be simply met by answering ‘True’ or ‘Yes’ to each question. Are you ready? Then let’s go: 1. MS is not a disease in itself, but rather a group of health risk factors as in 1. High Blood Pressure; 2. High Blood Sugar (Glucose) Levels; 3. High Cholesterol Levels; 4. Increased Abdominal (mid-section) Girth (fat deposition) and 5. Increased Body Mass Index (BMI) or being overweight for
one’s height. 2. Does a waist measurement of 40 inches (for men) and 35 inches (for women) or larger, and associative blood pressure readings of >135/85, and a fasting blood sugar of >100, and a total cholesterol level >240 combined with a BMI score of >25-35 altogether represent the five (5) signs of MS? 3. Does the risk of having MS tend to rise as one’s age advances from 20% in your 40’s to 35% in your 50’s to 45% in your 60’s? 4. Is MS so common that up to 50 million Americans or 1 in every 6 people have it? 5. Is it true that MS is familiar and even without being obese (BMI >25) people can inherit it from parents or other close relatives? 6. Is it also true that while looking “fat” might imply risk for MS, only during medical work-up with one’s doctor checking blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels can a person really know for sure? 7. Do all the above MS risk factors double one’s chance of having heart attacks and brain attacks (strokes)? 8. Do these factors increase by five times normal the risk of
one having Type II Diabetes? 9. And lastly, is MS preventable? So, how did your score come out? If you got nine ‘yes’ answers, then you’ve done great! Moreover, as you were paying attention to the final question (#9), you came upon the ‘bottom line’ as they say. You see MS can be easily prevented and/or amended through some very simple means:
*Regular exercise of 30-60 minutes duration for several times per week will help decrease BMI through weight reductions; and lower both glucose and cholesterol levels. Remember: ‘a little pain means big gains’ with MS!
*Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, while avoiding ‘fast’ and processed foods to reduce fat and salt intake makes good sense. As they say, “an apple a day…”
*If you smoke, stop now! And stay stopped! *Keep regular exam appointments with your doctor, at least until you’ve gotten back some self control with MS. Now taken as a whole, we can realize that MS is not as scary or complicated as it seems. And managing it is quite simple, indeed. Simply, “Just do it”! V
Live Life & Laugh Magazine’s Cover Girl - Actress & Artist — Liz Mikels
Q: My first question for you is……”Can I borrow 20 bucks?” A: LOL…The word “borrow” means you intend to pay me back. So, yes you may! Lol As soon as I win the lottery! LOL Q: What makes Liz Smile, Laugh besides lending me $20 A: Smiles: My family and friends. We are ALWAYS laughing and cutting up. Especially my daughters and my grandson. Q: Who in your family are you closest to? A: Since Mama’s passing, it would have to be my daughters, Lindsay (27), Corienne (23) and Vershea (16). My brother, Keith and my sister, Brenda-we’re close too. Q: Is it ok to get little personal? A: Sure, let’s do it! {laughs} Q: The number one question I’m sure the fellows would love to know is are you single? A: Very! Lol Q: And looking?
(Raise Eye Brow) as we laugh! Q: What’s on your nightstand? A: Bottled water. A couple of books, Cocoa Butter for my dry skin and my remotes. Q: What’s in your DVD collection?
truly my home away from home. I try and go for at least a week every year or I try to go a couple of times a year. There’s no place on earth like it. I love Montego Bay, Jamaica and Paris France too. And New York is always exciting. I love to travel.
A: My DVD’s are as eclectic as my music. I have oldies like Claudine, Comedies like Roscoe Jenkins, of course and The Hangover. Tear jerker’s like, The Blindside… Action and adventures, but NO horror flicks. I don’t do horror films.
Q: You have your hands full with the entertainment business and being a mother so when was the last time you did a household chore ?
Q: If you could be any video game character, Who Would you be and why?
Q: If you could be any color of crayon what would they be?
A: I don’t play video games. I’ll have to ask my daughter… She said, Ms. Pacman. Wait a minute…does that mean I eat a lot?! Lol LOL, c’mon-I think it means to keep going through stages in your life and keep reaching for the top! Ok, I’ll take that! Q: What are some of your favorite travel spots ? A: NEW ORLEANS!! It’s
A: I washed a few loads of clothes, took out the trash and washed the dishes earlier today.
A: HOT PINK! Me too Q: You are always so fashionable, who is your stylist and make up artist? A: Me, myself and I. Again, I must credit my mother for planting this seed. She was always so sharp and put together when I was growing up, I wanted to be just like her! I started making all my clothes by the time I was
Continued
a senior in High school, and I would literally dress up all the time. My mother would fuss and say if I dressed up so much, what would I wear when it was time to dress up. I told her I’d just make something else, and I did. I love fashion, hair and make-up. Always have...so my style is my own. Thanks for the sweet compliment. You better than me, I’m still looking for time to do that! Q: What is in your iPod(?) A: All kinds of music. Reggae, Jazz, Old School Rap, New School Rap, Hip Hop, Soul, Blues, R&B, Neo-soul, Rock, even some country. Lol I LOVE music…I couldn’t live without it.
Magazine’s Cover Girl - Actress & Artist — Liz Mikels
choreograph or have my own dance company because of my height and size. In theater, I can sing, act and dance. As far as it being my career…I guess I knew the day I got my first professional paycheck! Lol. . . I was like, “You mean I can get paid every week to dance and sing and I don’t have to call people and bug them about switching their 0+ carrier?!” Before doing this professionally, I was a sales rep at an independent telephone company. I am so sure that was an experience all by itself, sales sounds easy but clearly it isn’t! Q: Who had the most influence on your career choice?
Q: What is the one thing you could not do without having every single day and why?
A: My mother. She believed in me when no one else did, including myself.
A: Music. I love it. I have to have it in and around me all the time.
Q: What character or performance did you enjoy the most out of your career thus far?
Q: When did you decide singing and acting was the career for you? A: I was a dancer first. But I changed my major to theater after I realized I’d either have to
A: On TV, the character I enjoyed the most was Corrina Williams from Friday Night Lights. In theater, I’d have to say Caroline Thibodeaux from Tony Kushner’s Caroline
Interview/Questions by — Cappuccino
Or Change. Both women are strong single mothers that are working hard to raise positive, responsible children. I am very familiar with that part of both characters and their day-to-day dilemmas are different, but the heart of a mother speaks loudly to me. Q: What is your favorite part about the industry? A: LOL! My favorite part is getting paid to do what I love! But I also love meeting and working with people I’ve admired from afar and getting to travel is a favorite part too. Q: What was your favorite TV episode to shoot. A: On Friday Night Lights, it had to be “Little Girl I Wanna Marry You” from season one. That was the episode where I discovered my son, Smash’s (Gaius Charles) steroids. I thought the coach was responsible and I burst into his office and charged him up as only a mad black mother can! Lol… I was sweating and trembling because as a black mama, I know firsthand how it feels when you think someone is messing with your child. We don’t play that! LOL. Page 27
Page 28
2010 Š SimplyMeMagazine.com
Page 28
“How I Have Overcome Many Obstacles In My Life” Biography - Sharon Scott
There are many lessons to be learned in life…some good, some bad, but either way those lessons are what play a vital role in the person you become. This is my story… I am a mother of four adult children (ages 17, 18, 19, and 21) and two infant grandchildren. From the time I gave birth to my first child just two weeks before my 19th birthday, up to this point in time, I have had to endure many trials and tribulations in my life ranging from becoming a welfare recipient (at the age of 18) to living in turmoil with a drug ex--spouse. drug--addicted ex Just by looking at me (unless you really know me) you would never know that I have experienced more in just the past 22 years of my adult life than most people experience in a lifetime because of the smile I constantly keep on my face when I encompass myself around others who I come in contact. Have you done the math yet? If so, then you have guessed that I am only 40 years of age. Prior to me becoming self self--employed, I have worn many different occupational hats. I have been a home health aide, certified nurse assistant, binder in a print shop, soldier in the United States Army, and a customer service representative all over a period of 13 years. If I had to choose which occupation out of the five had the most lasting and memorable lessons learned, I would have to choose the military. Do not get me
Page 30
wrong. Being a home health aide as well as a certified nurse assistant taught me a lesson in humility and humbleness; while at the same time teaching me how to be compassionate towards others in need, but the Army taught me other attributes that have remained with me to this present day in time. In addition to teaching me how to shoot an M M--16 (smiling), I learned how to put others before myself as well as work with a team effort and not as an individual. I learned discipline and how to work hard for what I want. The most important lesson I learned was how to stand on my own two feet. With that I earned “strength”…something I lacked prior to joining the military. Back in November 2003, I remember sitting at my desk, where I worked for a company contracted by General Motors, to handle their clients’ customer service calls. I was in the process of preparing to move back to a city in Texas where I previously resided. As I sat at my desk between calls, I was surfing the internet for employment within the city to which I was returning. I had already resigned myself to the
fact that I no longer wanted to work for someone else; it was time for me to become my own boss. At that moment, I began researching “work at--home” “work--at jobs in a very popular employment website and came across an ad for independently contracted inbound sales representatives who desired to work from home. Being the skeptic that I am, I knew there were a lot of scams out there, but this particular position was posted on a very reputable employment website, and I knew that if the job was not 100 percent legitimate, then it would not be listed for public viewing. To make a long story short, I applied for the contract position as a Virtual Service Representative, and now I am currently 7 years strong with the company. This position has taught me how to discipline myself to be able to work from home. It sounds very easy, but in all actuality, it is not as easy as most may think. One may have the luxury of not having to commute any farther than from his/her bed to their home office space; you may not even have to worry about a supervisor hovering over your shoulder, BUT, those of us who are fortunate to work from home experience the same stress and headaches brought on by irate customers as those who have to commute to an actual, physical call center. After seven years of
contracting for this company, I have developed more tolerance than I had when I first began, and this is what I am taking with me into my next venture I currently plan to embark. I began as an employee. I then went on to become an Independent Contractor. Now I have moved up to an actual business owner. Just a brief description of my business… After my term with the military, I gained an excessive amount of weight due to binge eating as a result from the amount of stress I was under. There are those whose drug of choice is cocaine, cannabis, or alcohol. My drug of choice was food. It had gotten to the point where there were times I would actually eat fast food 3 times a day… I was completely out of control. I had gone from a solid 180 lbs. of pure muscle to a maximum weight of 335 lbs. I have always been more on the heavy heavy--boned side, so by looking at me, one could not tell that I was actually that big, but the scale does not lie. I knew that I could not continue on this way because eventually, I would develop some serious health problems. Diabetes, heart disease, and cancer run strong in my family, and I knew that it was just a matter of time before I would fall victim to one or more of those illnesses. I tried diet after diet. I spent hundreds of dollars on every “so “so--called” miracle weight loss pill on the market. Finally, there was a product which came into my possession that cannot be found in stores. I tested the product on myself to make sure that it was not yet
another phony weight loss product, and to my surprise, this diet supplement actually worked. Within 6 weeks (from mid mid--December to January 31, 2010) I dropped in size from a 28/30 to a 24 and by the time this article reaches the newsstands (Summer, 2010); I will have dropped even more in size. I have finally found something that works, and I believe in it so much that I want to share it with those who have
tried diet after diet with no results. This is also the perfect alternative for those who either cannot afford an expensive weight loss surgery or are skeptical about undergoing an invasive procedure. If you are truly serious about losing weight and are committed to maintaining a healthier lifestyle, taking this product will be the beginning to a brighter future for you.
Page 31
Who Do You Think You Are? Pastor Veronica Cunningham
“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. . . . . .” (Proverbs 23:7 AMP) According to the
Bible, we--mankind--were created to be like God so that we could fellowship with Him, love Him, and so that He could rule and manage this earth through us (Genesis 1:26; Psalms 8:5-8). But there was a disruption in the plan of God, when Satan--through the serpent--tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden, and both she and Adam disobeyed God’s commandment to not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3:1-6). Because of Adam and Eve’s disobedience, mankind fell from being Godlike to being like the fallen angel they had obeyed--Satan. We were separated from God-disconnected from our Source of life, identity, and purpose. Thankfully, God was not satisfied to leave us as we were. Through Jesus Christ, God initiated and successfully implemented a plan, whereby, we can be saved (delivered from the consequences of our sins), reunited with Him, and become Godlike once again (John 14:6). To partake of God’s provision of deliverance, reconnection, and Godlikeness, we must re-
pent of our sins, confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in our heart that God raised Jesus from the dead (Acts 2:38; Romans 10:9). After we are saved, we become like God in our spirit (I John 4:17b). You see, the Bible teaches that man is a three-part being: we are a spirit; we have a soul--which is comprised of our mind (thinker), will (chooser), and emotions (feeler); and we live in a body (I Thessalonians 5:23). At the time of our conversion, our spirit is recreated to be like God, but our soul and body remained the same. We become a “new creature” (2 Corinthians 5:17) in our spirit, but remain the same person outwardly, in our soul and body. The new person we become in our spirit is who we really are. However, the new person on the inside will not be seen until a transformation occurs, changing who we are on the outside to be who we are on the inside, and this transformation is not automatic; it cannot take place without our participation. In fact, God has given us the responsibility to do
what is necessary to bring “the hidden man of the heart ” (I Peter 3:4) to the forefront, so that God’s nature, character, and ways will be displayed in our lives (Romans 12:1-2). Our Godlikeness being manifested outwardly depends greatly upon who we think we are. We must think we are like God before we will be like God outwardly, for as one “thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7 AMP). However, we cannot think we are like God, without first knowing what God is like--what His nature and characteristics are. Where can such information be found about God? In the Bible. The Bible tells us everything we need to know about God, and it specifically tells us how we are like God in the New Testament. When we believe what we continually read in the Bible about God and us, and think accordingly, our Godlikeness will shine forth for all to see. Want to be an extraordinary person doing extraordinary things in this world? Reconnect to God, change your thinking about who you are, and be Godlike.
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Page 33
Indelibly Delightful Challenge! Pastor Veronica Cunningham
The word indelibly means,
Giver! You may not think of
Lord, we become imitators of
“something that cannot be
GOD as having joy, or being
GOD —giving joy just as He GOD—
removed, washed out, or
delightful, but the Bible says
does (Ephesians 5:1). This
obliterated.” And the word
that in His presence is fullness
wonderful, powerful, GOD GOD--
delightful means, “being highly
of joy (Psalms 16:11). Joy is one
given gift of joy will dissolve the
pleasing; to give great
of His characteristics, and
stresses of life, clear out any
pleasure or joy to.” Before
He freely gives it to us when
thoughts of depression and
you can give joy, you must
we connect to Him through
remove inhibitions from your
have joy. Therefore,
Jesus Christ (John 14:6).
life. The joy of the Lord, will
delightfulness comes from
Once you receive the joy of
strengthen and empower you in
having joy, and this joy must be
the Lord, it’s yours forever! No
your daily living because GOD’s
indelible in order to produce
person ---including person-----including the
strength is embedded in His
indelible delightfulness. So, an
devil ---nor devil-----nor any negative
joy. (Nehemiah 8:10). As you let
indelibly delightful person is
circumstances can take the joy
this indelible joy manifest itself
pleasant, having and giving
of the Lord away from you.
through your life, you will
indelible joy which cannot be
Jesus said that, no one can
become the living and delightful
taken away. The joy that the
take your joy from you. What
person GOD designed you to
world offers is temporary and a
the devil will try to do is stop
be. You will attract the attention
counterfeit of the real joy. This
that joy from displaying itself
of many when this wonderful
kind of joy comes from drugs,
through you. And he will
fragrance of joy is radiating
alcohol, or some other outside
succeed if you don’t
from you. Thank you for
stimuli. But, the joy that I am
consistently spend time
taking the Indelibly
talking about --- which is the
with God in prayer and in
Delightful Challenge.
only real and lasting joy ---
His word word-- -not only
Now, go and be “indelibly
comes from GOD. O my, did I
reading or hearing it, but
delightful”, spreading the
say that joy comes from GOD?
doing it (James 1:22). When we
joy of the Lord to a hurting and
That’s right. GOD is the Joy
outwardly display the joy of the
sad world.
Pastor Veronica Cunningham — Biography Founder and pastor of Celebration Of Life In Christ Ministry. She is also the founder of Celebration Of Life In Christ Christian Library which freely provides materials to aid Christians in their spiritual growth. She is dedicated to preaching and teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, so as to prepare and equip the saints for the work of the ministry and for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Ministry information: 972 709-- 9775 972-- 709 Email: CelebrateLifeInChrist@yahoo.com Page 34
Weights Are Meant To Be Lifted Jacqueline Steward
Have you ever just stared at yourself in the mirror and wondered where "you" were? Have you ever carefully selected your clothing for the day only to find out that it wouldn't fit? And how about this one, have you ever said that you will begin to exercise and eat right on tomorrow?" Well, I have been in every one of these situations and I know that I am not alone. As women, there are so many things in life that can completely throw us off course‌ troubled relationships, watching our children become young women and men, saying goodbye to loved ones for the last time, and walking into new and unfamiliar territories. All of these things cause extra wear and tear on our minds and bodies. After going through a painful divorce, I fell in love with food. I was so in love with it that I sat down one day and asked Food to marry me...and it accepted. It started off as a great love affair, it was always there for me no matter what time of day I needed it. Food comforted me through my
laughter, tears, and fears. I became a bit too familiar with it though. I began to think that my clothes were shrinking. Weren't they? Why wouldn't my jeans fit anymore and where did that extra belly come from? Things were not looking good at all. Finally, I realized that my relationship with Food was weighing heavily, very heavily on me. It appeared that I had unwittingly gone from one toxic relationship to another. How did I do this? This had to come to an end. So, I decided to break things off. I had no idea that it would be so hard. But, after many gut wrenching attempts to break through the chains of emotional eating, light has began to shine. I am getting things under control now. I chose to love and accept me for who I am. I realized that I had to control what I allowed to come into my body. I had to break my food addiction. I had to move forward. So I decided to control my body instead of allowing my body to control me.
Next, I had to attempt to conquer the thoughts of
hopelessness that taunted my mind. Questions like, what could I have done differently to make my marriage work, why divorce? Should I have been stronger, sterner, more trusting... Well, the list goes on and on. But no more! The past is the past. Someone wanted to leave my life and they did. What could I have done about that? I now know that it is good for us to allow those who kick and scream for emancipation to be set free. Their life and happiness is just as important as our own. I firmly believe that while giving them their keys to freedom, we gain ours.
Lastly, we must constantly fight against the things of life that cause our minds and bodies to go astray. We have to hold fast to what we know, which is that we are significant, meaningful and special. We are so special that some people fail to realize it. But so what? As long as we know it, we will be alright. Three cheers to a great and wonderful life. Our future is bright and full of sweat, tears, and laughter. Remember, Together We Stand.
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2011©Horizontal Publishing
S R. P ASTOR E RNEST S TIGGERS Page 36
A bigail A Woman of Wisdom Wisdom & fools - Pastor Rosa Stiggers
For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Proverbs 8:11 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom; and with all thy getting get understanding. Proverbs 4:7 Abigail was not only a beautiful woman but a very intelligent woman who knew God and therefore knew how to live with a foolish man. She was a woman of wisdom. She was married to a rich, drunken fool. His name was Nabal. The word Nabal means “fool.” The fool hath said in his heart, there is no God. Psalm 14:1. How did Abigail end up marrying a foolish man? Since marriages were for the most part arranged by the parents Abigail was more than likely forced into nuptials with Nabal. Since Nabal was rich and industrious, so it’s likely that Abigail’s parents felt that Nabal would be a good match for their daughter. In I Samuel the 25th chapter we read that David’s men are in need of food. He hears that Nabal is in Carmel, shearing his sleep.
David had protected Nabal’s herdsmen on many occasions. David is probably thinking that he has a friend in Nabal, one favor deserves another, but Nabal didn’t return the favor instead he degraded David. Nabal was proud and selfish and unwilling to help David and his men. David set out to kill Nabal, but God gave Abigail the wisdom to know what to do in the instant a decision had to be made. What David was about to do was wrong and Nabal was wrong also however two wrongs don’t make a right? Abigail stood between the two, one about to do a foolish thing, the other an outright fool. Abigail was a godly woman! Her godly intuition helped her handle the “fools” that God has placed in her life. How are you handling the fools God has put into your life? Abigail quickly prepared food for David’s men. Here comes Abigail riding her donkey, laden with foodstuffs, through the hollow of the mountains; and here comes David and his men at exactly the same time.
Abigail spoke to David about keeping his record clean of all injustice and the seeking of personal vengeance on others, so that he would not have any regrets in time to come when God would fulfill his promises to him and he would become king of Israel and be free from those who sought his life. David was impressed by Abigail’s wisdom and humility. David at once accepted her plea and blessed her for being an instrument of God. Abigail certainly spoke to the king in David and not the fool he was acting; she prevented David and his men from killing Nabal.
Notes taken from: Life Principles from the Women of the Bible by: Wayne Barber, Eddie Rasnake, Richard Shepherd
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SMM On Fresh Wind TV Interview Vivian Clark CEO SMM TV Interview
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An extraordinary true story about how “LOVE” doesn’t hurt. In this story, you will discover how those three words, “I Love You” lead to being shot multiple times at gunpoint and left for dead. The purpose for this book is to relate to men and women, young and old, concerning the seriousness of domestic violence. An act of domestic violence can happen to anyone. Statistics show that domestic violence is rapid and most times silent. Many people have lost their lives by the very hand that fed them. Please, let this not be you. You will unfold many warning signs as you read my book. It is my prayer that you will take heed and control! Love is powerful and is the very force that connects us. In addition, “Love” doesn’t hurt, in fact, it nurtures, protects, believes, endures, hopeth, and most of all never fails! Introduction and cover of the book - Shattered But Not Broken by Katheryn Lena Rodes Mims
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businesses.
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This story can fit 150-200 words. One benefit of using your newsletter as a promotional tool is that you can reuse content from other marketing materials, such as press releases, market studies, and Caption describing picture or reports. graphic. While your main goal of distributing a newsletter might be to sell your product or service, the key to a successful newsletter is making it useful to your readers.
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T HE B IGGEST L OSER Contest
What do you get when you combine a growing progressive, dynamic church; a divinely inspired vision to make a difference in the health and wellbeing of its members; the shear will, discipline and determination of the people to improve mind, body and soul, with the pastoral leadership that empowers his disciples to implement the concept? You get the very successful, highly acclaimed Johnson Chapel Community Church 2010 “Survival of the Fittest” (Biggest Loser styled) Weight Loss/Lifestyle Challenge!!! For nearly a year, the broader concept of bringing a fitness ministry to the church had been planned between the pastor, Marcus D. King, and Ralph “Skip” Masters, who spearheads what is now called the Sports and Wellness Community. Simultaneously, yet unknowingly, Deedra Walker Penny, a former Smoothie Factory franchise owner and Figure (bodybuilding) competitor developed a proposal to bring a weight loss competition to the church. For Penny, the inspiration was driven by two
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factors: “First”, she says, “I felt deeply compelled because I would see so many beautiful women, who outwardly appeared confident and well put together in many aspects. Yet, I knew underneath the proud veil that they wear so well, many overweight [African American] women tended to secretly have a poor body image and desperately wanted to do something about it. Second, I promised God that I would try to give back completely and unselfishly for having blessed me with a new, wonderful husband, James and delivering me from hypertension and many of the stressors that had plagued me for the last 8 years.” The additional support to bring a program came together when, at dinner with the church administrator, Penny was introduced to fellow church member, Lisha McCoy, a Certified Group Instructor and Manager for the YMCA in Dallas. She, too, had a keen interest in developing a fitness program for the church. As a fledging ministry, the Sports and Wellness Community received infrastructure and organizational guidance from Rev. Tandra Johnson, the church’s Systems Administrator. From that point on, things began to take off.
The premise of the 12 Week intensive program at Johnson Chapel prerequisites. (Affectionately known as “JC3”), was to promote weight loss through drastic, yet healthy lifestyle changes. It was also designed so that whether a person had 20 or 200 pounds to lose, all had an equal opportunity to win. [Initial ranges of weight were 131 lbs to 378 lbs.] In the end, the winner would not be determined by weight loss alone. He/She would have to excel in other categories, as well, including: Loss of Body Fat, Loss of Inches; Attendance; Improvement in Fitness Knowledge; Decrease in Blood Pressure; Decrease in Resting Heart Rate; and an Accountability Partner Rating. Registrants were required to take the initial health screenings, take “before” pictures, complete a self assessment (mood, energy, sex drive, elimination patterns [bowels]) and take the initial test of Fitness Knowledge. Initial interest in the program was high, with 64 contestants, representing nearly 6% of the congregation at the time signing up. However, the magnitude of the
Continued
requirements and time commitment resulted in 52 contestants actually completing all the prerequisites. In order to successfully complete the program, contestants were provided 5 hourly opportunities on weekdays, beginning at 5:00 am, to complete two complete two-a-days on workouts. Every Saturday morning at 6:55, contestants weighed in and attended an educational session on various topics including: anatomy, nutrition, supplementation, and exercise mechanics. Bra fitting specialists and the owner of a colonics clinic also addressed the group on the importance of those aspects of health on overall well---being and self concept. At 8:00am, immediately following each weigh in and educational session, contestants attended an aerobics class. At various intervals, the participants also took interim pictures and measurements in order to track their progress; help stave off procrastination; and keep them motivated. To help keep things interesting, the contestants
were divided into two self---titled teams: Team Restoration, led by Mrs. Penny and Team Diamonds in the Rough, led by Ms. McCoy. Weekly team winners were announced based on the amount of weight loss and greatest number of members in attendance. In the following week, the winning team would get to participate in the indoor aerobics class; the losing team would have to participate in a boot camp style workout outdoors. To further encourage camaraderie, each person was also assigned an accountability partner, someone to encourage compliance; & share educational and other information in case of an absence. At the beginning of every week, the results from the previous Saturday‘s weigh in were announced. Scriptural meditations for the week and any other items of interest, including prayer concerns were also provided in these emails. This also helped contestants to stay excited and informed about what was going on with the group. As with any program, there were those whose results were less than desired. Over 60% of those who completed
the program as prescribed lost at least 10 lbs. That was the biggest challenge to Penny, who had to release the one lost sheep‘ mentality in order to fully focus on those who could commit and appreciated the value of all they received. Other detractors were merely the ―issues of lifeǁ. There had a number of contestants whose parents or extended family were undergoing treatment for cancer (including two who were in hospice); they came together for single parents; people who needed rental assistance, groceries, and was the first & largest contributing ministry to the church‘s Back to School Supply Driveǁ, as well. In the end, it created a deeper bond for the group who now considers itself a family. In the beginning, not many people knew how intensive and involved this life-style challenge would be, but for those who faithfully followed the oft repeated mantra: ”just trust the process”, the results were spectacular. Overall, the group lost nearly 500 lbs and over 315 inches, with the more successful weight loss leaders losing as much as 36 lbs during the 12 week period. What were the critical success Pg 44 factors responsible
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The Biggest Loser Continued
for the impact and results attained? “We operated on several tenets:
1. Two Two--a-day workouts are a requirement. The rationale was that if we could work hard initially to burn fat, then later, once goals have been reached, people could cut back on the exercise to be in maintenance mode. This is also why it was done primarily in the summer, when it would be more conducive to the participants’ schedules.
2. We periodized the workouts. Meaning that certain forms of cardiovascular and strength training were done for two weeks straight. Then after two weeks, just when the body was getting used to what we were doing, we’d switch to different forms of cardio. This was how we continued to boost the metabolism.
3. We periodized the meal plans. Meaning that every two weeks, a new meal plan was introduced. It entailed eating the same thing everyday for two weeks, with one cheat day per week. This had the same effect as periodizing the workouts, but also
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greatly simplified shopping. People could shop for the week (or two), cook their food and prepare it to take with them to work or wherever they needed to go during the week.
4. There was one day per week where absolutely no workout was allowed. What you eat; how much you sleep; and the quality of your exercises, impact your results – in that order. Rest was so crucial that there were times when contestants were ordered to NOT workout, when they violated the “one day of rest” rule. Penny adds, “your muscles only grow in your sleep”, so not getting enough rest, actually hinders your results. In the beginning, some of them could not run one lap around our church parking lot without stopping or pulling out an [asthma] inhaler. By the end of the program, some people were able to surpass 10 laps around without stopping.” The feedback on this program has been tremendous. Below are testimonials from some of the contestants: “Wow! …. I just left from my annual exam. My
blood pressure was 104/70, which my doctor said is excellent and for the 21 years that he has seen me it has never been this low. In addition, my cholesterol is at its lowest; it was actually at 260 now and as of 09/25/10 my cholesterol level is now 160. My energy level and stamina have increased greatly. GOSH what a little exercise will do - this is just as exciting as losing the weight….” - Princess Vlandamir, ( - 12.2lbs, - 10.3 inches) 1st Place Overall
This contest is the best thing that has happened to me in a long time. I am motivated to love myself more. My thinking has changed. I don’t look at food the same; I know its real purpose. I can handle stress better. When I look in the mirror I see a new person not just on the outside but on the inside. Eilyon Evans ((-- 26.6lbs, 18.2 inches) 9th Place Overall
The competition has truly been a blessing to me. Before starting this program I was having spasms in my back. The doctor told me two years ago that I couldn’t run, jump, play basketball
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Empowering Women For Greatness Harriet P. Harrison is a global She has faithfully and rising spiritual leader diligently offered her respected for her servant leadership skills, time and leadership ability, to teach, heart to help God’s Image and coach, equip and empower God’s Nature to develop the all levels of women around the character and integrity in this world; who have made peace 21st Century. Harriet is an with their past and desire to honorary Kingdom Faith improve in their spiritual Fighter with God’s Image and growth and personal lives. She God’s Nature Global Ministry is a published Author, Spiritual for eight years. It has Life Coach, Radio been her zeal to make forum allows Host and a a difference in her powerhouse family, church and Inspirational God’s women to community through Speaker, who God’s word of Truth. focuses her be empowered expertise on Through Empowering spiritual healing, to set personal Women 4 Greatness, wholeness and she facilitates development for workshops and God’s growing goals, take back training sessions for women leaders on small groups, women the move in the 21st their dominion organizations, special Century. event breakout Her heartfelt passion is to empower women to find their own personal greatness within. She is the visionary/founder of Empowering Women 4 Greatness. www.empowerwomen4greatn ess.net/ and www.openzine.com/aspx/ PublisherZine.aspx?ID=18428
sessions and business women networks. The workshop and training session in her ministry improves each individual’s well-being through self-awareness resulting in a total spiritual healing for the mind, body and spirit.
Harriet P. Harrison
goals, take back their dominion and authority in the earth, reach outside their personal boundaries to create a life filled with balance, peace, spiritual wholeness, good health and wellness and financial freedom. Harriet truly understands without having an intimate relationship with God and a greater love for Him; it’s impossible to love yourself. In her powerful workshops and training sessions she will share with you godly wisdom, revelation knowledge, spiritual insight and effective tools to challenge and motivate each individual into taking action. Today, Harriet is a loving wife; mother of two grown sons and three stepchildren also a proud grandmother of ten.
Harriet’s unique forum allows God’s women to be empowered to set personal
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The Biggest Loser Continued from page 44
or anything that could jolt my back. I had tried to lose weight but it wasn’t enough, he had basically sentenced me to immobility but the devil is a liar!! … Since starting the program, I have not had any problems with my back!! NOT ONE SPASM! My energy level has improved. I have a better, healthier view as it relates to food. I believe we been blessed with the proper tools to reach our goals and maintain our weight loss beyond the completion! Develyn McClellan (16.2lbs, - 18inches)
I was getting to a point in my life where I didn’t feel good about myself anymore and felt like surgery was the answer. The announcement was made for this program and I immediately thanked God for an open door. This program served as a
tool to help change my life! I’m eating better, more active; nutritionally conscience and more importantly I feel better! The change is not only on the outside but the inside as well. Shamika Polk ((-- 14.4lbs, 11.1inches) To commemorate successes such as these, the participants had an End of Contest Celebration at The Diner @ Cedar Hill in Uptown Village, Cedar Hill, Texas on October 16, 2010 – three weeks after the completion of the challenge. The elegant affair was an opportunity for the participants to celebrate their accomplishments and show off their new physiques. The banquet culminated with a “Big Reveal” of the overall contest winners – as this had remained a mystery until that time. Also, the top ten leaders in 6 of the 7 other categories were recognized. The extra appeal of the program to the church (and the pastor)
was that the costs were completely underwritten. [The estimated value of the program to its participants was well over $20,000, yet this was all offered to the participants for free.] In addition to receiving Curves© Gift Bags, the top five overall prizes awarded were:
1.
Princess Vlandamir
$400
2. 3. 4. 5.
Shirley Moore
$250
Mathilda Perrodin
$125
Christina Henderson
$ 75
Melodie Bennett
$ 50
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Exploring Our Attitudes About Eating D is ci p l in e - S ha ro n Ray
I think it’s true that no one likes to be overweight. It’s true the kinds of foods we choose help make us overweight, but is it true that if we had a little “will power” we could stop eating the foods we know are bad for us? Are we helpless? Are we just zombie victims absorbing and internalizing those commercials that make a greasy burger look like a work of art? Is putting down the Coca Cola beyond our control? Well, let’s explore that. Say you have an ice cold Coke in your hand, first one of the day. You hear on the TV that some nut has poisoned all the cokes at the distribution center that serves the DFW area. Do you take a sip anyway? OH HECK NO! You don’t even take the chance that you could be poisoned! You exercise your God given powers of control and common sense and you…PUT THE COKE DOWN! Question answered: Yes you can control what you put in your mouth if you know it will result in your instant expiration. EVEN if experts tell you that drinking that soda will slowly kill you, you are
willing to die in that way, right? Is it because you are not thinking about what you eat in terms of the damage it does to the miracle of your human body? Let’s explore that. Think about when you were a child and you could move. You could bend, you could RUN! Close your eyes and think about how you felt. Do you remember enjoying the power and movement of your body? Explore why you are choosing to have a body that cannot do what it was MADE to DO? When you look down at your body, what do you see? Forget thin, is it healthy ? What is the measure of health? Do you have high blood pressure? Diabetes? Can you walk from one end of the grocery store to the other without breathing heavy? Without having to rest? If you forget the eggs and you are already at the checkout, do you decide you don’t need them that bad? You were once healthy; what would it FEEL like to be healthy again? You have already admitted that if you know a food is a “killer” you can resist it. Let’s begin to look at the
following foods as k illers . killers. killers Would you serve these foods to your children if they would instantly kill or disable them? Red meat, sodas -regular or diet, all --regular chips, fried foods. These foods will disable you — you— think of them as poisoned. Can you live without these foods? What if the lives of your children depended on it? What are you willing to sacrifice to honor the gift of this body that God gave to you to use for Him? Some chips? Please explore that… Once you get your mind and your spirit and your body all connected, yes, you can eat those foods in moderation, if you want them. After you begin feeding your miracle what truly nourishes it, you won’t crave those foods. Now, let’s explore our options for a common sense approach to food. Change what you put into your body: Really think about the food that you put into your body. Is it nourishing? Can you grow it or does it have to be processed and put together in order to eat it? Does a hot dog grow from the ground? What about a chip? Are you getting it? Foods that come from
Co ntinu ed
God’s earth were designed by Him to show us His love and intent. Receive it. Foods that we process (grind, fry, coat or mix with other processed foods) in general are not a good choice because of the things we have to add to them — usually chemicals, fat and salt. them— These are foods like breaded chicken (nuggets) fish sticks, hot dogs, sausage, etc. Drink water or skim milk at meal time. Sodas do not nourish; tea prevents you from absorbing iron at your meal. Eliminate the instant killers from your meals. What can you eat instead of red meat? Chicken, fish, beans, turkey, lean cuts of pork (remember, nothing fried!) Serve more vegetables; always include a salad with dark greens, not just iceberg lettuce. Always park your car as far away from the store as possible. This will require you to walk! Find a friend who can meet you every morning to walk. If your kids are not active, then make them walk with you (we are always willing to do much more for our children than we will for ourselves – God is a marvelous planner). Start out with a fifteen minute walk. Your goal should be thirty minutes, five days a week. If you walk with a friend, hold each other accountable. If you walk with your kids, be what you want them to be. At each meal, before the prayer, ask everyone to look down at their bodies. To listen for their own beating heart and breath. This will remind you of the connection to your miracle miracle.. Then prayer will make you grateful for this chance to nourish it.