Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their World ™ JANUARY, 2022
I Choose to LEAP
Simple Ways to Stick to Your Budget For 2022 DORETHIA KELLY
JULIE CLINTON, MAd, MBA
Street-Style TRENDS Tips for WELL-BEING in 2022 How to Deal with BITTERNESS as a Christian Single DR. CHERYL MERCHANT
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ON THE COVER: CELESTE E. TOLLIVER-KELLEY, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF SISTAH TALK
GREETINGS SISTAHS! The one thing that really keeps us from obtaining our destiny and from going to the next level in God and that holds us back is our past. Your destiny is well within your reach!! In order to reach your God-given Destiny you’ve got to begin to REACH beyond your past & STRETCH into your FUTURE!!!! Stretching involves you coming up out of your comfort zone, and extending beyond that to new heights and places in God!!! In order to get to your Destiny you are going to have to put some work into it!!! God will often take you from where you are to where He wants you to be at what can be called a divine intersection. This is the time and situation in your life where your gifts, skills, passion, experience and personality merge together into either the revealing of, or carrying out of, your destiny. What many of us try to do in our lives is rush ahead to the intersection, not realizing the importance of God’s perfect timing. Until your divine intersection comes, God is preparing you for that moment – for the people, tasks and purposes ahead. Your destiny and the blessings that come with it are not just going to fall into your lap!! Once through the intersection, in order to reach your Destiny in God you are going to have to use some things by force, take some risks, and be aggressive. Why? Because the last thing the enemy wants you to do is to reach your God-given Destiny. So just as hard as you are fighting to get to your Destiny, is just as hard as he is fighting against it!!! You’ve got to learn how to talk back to the enemy!!! The Bible says, “The kingdom suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force!!!” YOU’VE GOTTA KNOW GOD’S TIMING AND TAKE YOUR DESTINY BY FORCE!!!! Go forth SISTAHS, be empowered, be informed and be inspired!
PHOTO BY SHAWN LEE STUDIOS
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A SISTAH’S LIFESTYLE I Choose to Leap by Julie Cain, MAd, MBA ................................................................................................................. 7 ALL THE SINGLE LADIES How to Deal with Bitterness as a Christian Single ....................................................................................................... 9 FAITH & FINANCES Simple Ways to Stick to Your Budget by Dorethia Kelly........................................................................................ 11 A SISTAH’S CLOSET BY “HONEY” Fun Street Style Trends – Spring, 2022 ..................................................................................................................... 13
ON THE COVER: “MAINTAINING YOUR CROWN: GOAL-SETTERS & GOAL-GETTERS” ELIZABETH JOHNSON, Author of Just Like My Dad............................................................................................ 15
MINDING SELF Tips for Well-Being in 2022 by Dr. Cheryl Merchant ............................................................................................. 19 SISTAHS IN BUSINESS AUTHORS SPOTLIGHT EVENTS & RESOURCES
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Women's Conference for all women. Our theme is "Masterpiece". We are dedicated to the empowerment of the whole women. March 17 - 19, 2022 from the comfort of your own home, or even while you're on the go. Where ever you choose to tune in. This is a FREE event, but you must register. Register here: https://forms.gle/HxQx1oLSEtAEJdhAA
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“Broken, I run to You for Your arms are open wide I am weary, but I know Your touch restores my life” –Kathryn Scott, “Hungry”
Meditation: Matthew 14:28-32, John 10:7-18 Are you hanging on by a thread… feeling pushed to the edge of the cliff… hands aching from hanging on? Let go and leap! Seriously, when are we going to take God at his word? I’m talking to myself here. How easily we forget that he is with us through thick and thin. Today I’m reminding myself that: •
I walk through “the darkest valley.”
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I need not fear for he is “with me.”
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He makes a table for me “in the presence of my enemies.”
I don’t stay in the darkest valley. I can live fearlessly each and every day, knowing that he is going to bless me right smack dab in front of those who don’t like me very much! Wow, that is my God at work on my behalf. The choice is mine… and the choice is yours. Are we going to leap into his arms? That’s right, today is all about trusting God. We’re not talking about a tank of alligators or a lake of piranhas. This is about leaping
into his arms. I say, “Get out of my way. I’m coming through!” Be fearless: Leaping is, at once, both scary and breathtakingly grand. Enjoy it! Choose to trust, to leap, and to be fully his! He is with you, right now, this very second. He is your Father and you are his daughter. When you leap into his arms, you’re in the safest place on earth! Let’s let 2022 be the year we grow closer to the Lord and become the fearless, strong, and faithful woman we are meant to be in Him! In Be Fearless, Julie Clinton provides a scripturally-sound guide for finding freedom, purpose, joy… and fearlessness. Be Fearless is now available in our store! https://www.aacc.net/product/befearless/ Consider working through Be Fearless with another extraordinary woman or group this year.
© 2019 Julie Clinton, MAd, MBA – All Rights Reserved.
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https://christian-dating-service-plus.com/how-to-deal-with-bitterness-as-a-christian-single.htm
A bitter person has a difficult time dealing with the past. I hear bitter people say things like this all the time: “Lord why did this person leave me?” “I can’t believe how my “ex” treated me. Now he’s found someone new, and I’m just stuck reliving what went wrong. It’s not fair!” “Why did I get such a raw deal?!” How many people have a hard time letting go over a past hurts, rejections and relationship issues? Some are tortured by past hurts, and it makes you bitter. THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BITTERNESS SINGLES FACE Just as there are many types of fruit, there are types of manifestations of bitterness. With that let me just say this: YOU CAN’T HELP WHAT HAPPENS IN YOUR LIFE, BUT YOU CAN HELP HOW YOU REACT. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF BITTERNESS “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled…” Bitterness is Deceptive. It’s deceptive on so many different levels. First of all, it’s hard to spot. We may be bitter and not even know it. Or others may be bitter against us, but we will not be able to spot it. Why? Because as the Scripture states, it’s a “ROOT of Bitterness that we must be careful to avoid. We can’t always see everything that meets the eye, even when it comes to our own heart. A bitter person ultimately is a person who holds a grudge against God. This was
actually the devil’s first sin. He was selfdeceived. A bitter person feels he or she deserves better that what God is offering to them. That somehow God is holding back His best from them. This is deception, and it’s exactly the form of deception the devil used on Eve in Genesis. Bitterness is Defiling. If we refuse to deal with bitterness that has taken root deep in our souls, and perpetuated by a grudge holding, unforgiving spirit, we can ruin any hope for a joyful life and future successful relationships, romantic or platonic. Bitterness is really a form a pride, and that is why it’s so destructive. In fact, if you think carefully about it, it’s the same root of bitterness Satan had that caused him to challenge God. Bitterness is Duplicating. What do we mean by that? People who can’t deal with bitterness by rooting it out from their hearts, are bound to spread their poison, like Satan did, to others. Ever date a bitter person or family member? Well, you know how easily that spirit is spread to others. THE REMEDY FOR BITTERNESS The best way to get rid of bitterness is to kill it with compassion. We must confess it to Lord, and have Him help us root out any remnant of bitterness: Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Eph 4:31,32 @Oasis Singles 2022 – All Rights Reserved.
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SIMPLE WAYS TO STICK TO YOUR BUDGET
We all start off good and then it goes left. It's happened to me too. We mean well and intend to stick to...
- use one of the apps I've suggested in the Budgeting Apps I ❤ download
1. Create a budget each month and then...
NOW...How to stick to it...
2. Actually follow it.
1. Make an appointment - yep... this may seem formal, but do it. This is how you will remember to do it. Don't wait until payday, do it before you get paid so you have a blueprint to follow.
I'm not here to tell you there is a magic wand, but it can be done... it starts with each of us making a decision to just do it... that's it. Here are a few thoughts that may help you decide...
2. Schedule to do it bi-weekly or once per month - choose the same day or date for consistency.
Ask yourself how you would feel if you knew where every dollar of your money went?
3. No need to try to do it weekly, you definitely won't stick to that AND waiting more than a month isn't helpful either.
How would you feel if you didn't have to try to keep track in your mind... worried about forgetting a transaction?
Don't expect perfection...
Relieved? Wouldn't a weight be lifted as you are able to plan your finances better? So here's the thing, once you create a template, you can keep using that same one... it doesn't have to be hard. You just have to do the work of pulling it all together ONCE... from there, you are just tweaking as each month goes on. This is whether you are using paper, spreadsheet or online app... which leads me to...
I just really want you to develop the habit of doing your budget/spending plan. It doesn't need to be perfect AND if you go over it's OK. Say it with me IT'S OKAY!! Give yourself a break... keep working on it and it will get smoother each time. Which of these budgeting options are you going to try in 2022?
©2022 Dorethia Kelly – All Rights Reserved.
...the cool thing is that there is something for however you'd like to do your budget... you can use: - notebook dedicated to your budget only - spreadsheet and pdf fillable templates I've provided in the training portal for you | 11
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FUN STREET STYLE TRENDS – SPRING, 2022
Temperatures may still be chilly out but spring 2022 is just around the corner — and preparing your closet with the street style trends you want to try is a great way to anticipate warmer days ahead. Looking back at the street styles from Spring/Summer 2022 fashion weeks is a great way to predict what will be hot in the coming months. Trends to watch include bold neon colors, plenty of greens, and oversized pant suits. Here are some of the Spring 2022 street style trends you’ll want to have ready for the change in seasons.
Part of the embrace of gender-neutral cuts has been a move towards oversized trousers and blazers for women. Transition this look to spring and summer with lighter colors and an eyecatching blouse. Or, for an even bolder look, layer a boxy blazer over a crop top or bra to emulate popular street style. ©2022 Olivia O’Bryon – All Rights Reserved. https://www.forbes.com/sites/oliviaobryon/2022/01/23/fu n-street-style-trends-to-try-for-spring2022/?sh=289861c544f3
This spring, expect to see jackets in bright colors and oversized cuts. Spring is the perfect time to break out those jackets that are too brightly colored for fall or winter. And, oversized looks continue to dominate, especially when layered over more formfitting tops. Like it or not, Y2K looks are back, especially preppy skirt suits paired with crop tops. Plaid is also popular and can be worn with multiple plaid pieces or one statement piece. This look transitions well to spring in light colors like the light green plaid suit pictured above. Slip dresses will still be everywhere in spring 2022 and they’re extra wearable with a chunky knitwear sweater or oversized blazer. Think bright, cheery colors like pinks for spring and pair with choker necklaces and saddlebag purses for a refreshed early 2000s look.
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ON THE COVER: CELESTE E. TOLLIVER-KELLEY (“MINISTER CELESTE”), EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF SISTAH TALK
Reverend Celeste E. Tolliver-Kelley, BSW (affectionately known as "Minister Celeste") was born and reared in Hamtramck, Michigan, and has one son, LaMont, who is the joy of her life.
building of three ministries, Minister Celeste is a woman on a mission for God.
Minister Celeste currently serves as an Elder at Impact Church (iChurch Detroit) under Pastor Keenann Knox. The Lord first anointed Reverend Celeste musically, at age 3, and she obtained her foundations at The Historic Little Rock Baptist Church (Dr. Jim Holley, Pastor). Reverend Celeste has served as the Minister of Music for Christian Tabernacle Church (Dr. James L. Morman, Pastor).
SISTAH TALK: Describe some of the things you need to do to manifesting Destiny?
Minister Celeste hosted the Write The Vision Victorious Visionaries Radio Show on 88.1 FM WHPR in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck, MI and has appeared on Dr. Stacia Pierce's International Women's Success Conference Dream Panel as a noted radio personality and radio show host. She has received honors for Community Service through The SISTAHS Ministry International, the very first Community Mother of Legacy and Woman of Distinction. In April 2012, Minister Celeste birthed "Sister Girl..." Inc. offering workshop and coaching services to inform, ignite and elevate individuals to their purpose and destiny. Through "Sister Girl..." Inc. and The SISTAHS Ministry International, Minister Celeste has sown into the lives of many women and teenage girls all over the United States. "Minister Celeste" is the Author of the nationally distributed "Sister Girl..." Series which features "Sister Girl... It's Not That Serious!!" containing self-motivating and empowering principles to encourage women on the road to their destiny, as well as "And the Sisters Said, 'Amen!'" which provides of self-evaluation and foundational principles as the vision comes to pass while on Destiny's Road. And Volume 3 of the "Sister Girl..." Series, entitled "The Drama Queen's Prophecy: Breaking the Chains and Bursting into Breakthrough." The "Sister Girl..." Series was motivated by the calling that God has on Minister Celeste's life to help and encourage women and girls. As Founder and CEO of "Sister Girl..." Ministries, Founder and Director of The S.I.S.T.A.H.S. Ministry International, Author, Songwriter, Radio Show Host, and assistant in the Kingdom
Minister Celeste had this to share with SISTAH Talk:
Maintaining “consistency” is key in establishing any goal. The times when you feel like you are not succeeding is the time to push harder. It’s a simple statement, but not so easy: Don’t Quit! Stay innovative. We have evolved into a technical and digital society. Stay abreast of nuisances that will continue to make your product and business relevant. Let go of fear. God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. There is a lot packed in that scripture. You possess power, do what you can that is within your power and trust God that your diligence will not go unrewarded. You possess love to love what you do, to love your vision and your dream, so do what you can to treat your destiny and everyone involved with love. You possess a sound mind – think things through and develop a plan. Use productivity tools to bring order to your processes which will enable you to not feel overwhelmed with everything involved in reaching and maintaining your Destiny. SISTAH TALK: What do you describe as roadblocks in manifesting Destiny? YOU. You can be the biggest problem in manifesting Destiny. Whether it be by believing you can achieve a goal or doing what it takes to reach the goal. The biggest roadblock is YOU. Start with looking in the mirror and knowing yourself. Build your confidence to now you are wonderfully and fearfully made. You have everything you need to do the things God designed you to do and accomplish. If you’re not happy with yourself, work on the things you believe you need to work on and be happy spending time with YOU in the process of manifesting Destiny. Then you have to do the things it takes to reach your goals in manifesting Destiny. A lazy spirit will not yield | 15
results, but a diligent, hard-working spirit is rewarded by God. HATERS. Don’t allow haters to make you think what you are doing is the wrong thing, when God has told you and shown you what to do. No matter how things look, do not allow people to validate your vision. When God gives vision, He gives provision. Social media has become inundated with Likes, Followers and monetizing those aspects as Influencers. If that is your goal, that is fine, but if it is not that is fine too. Whether you get 2 or 2,000 Likes, have a million Followers, people see what you are doing – trust and believe! They may never say a word, but they see you. But what is even more important are the people or persons God wants to see your work. SISTAH TALK: What encouraging words would you share with someone who is working to realize dreams and goals? Do not be afraid to reach out for help from other successful people. Solicit a Mentor of Coach who can hold you accountable to reach certain milestones in development. Develop a plan and strategy to accomplish goals; draft a Business Plan and timeline to reach certain milestones. SISTAH TALK: Please share contact information with our readers and how they can purchase your books. Visit me on Social Media @MinisterCeleste On the web at www.MinisterCeleste.com E-Mail: MinisterCeleste@yahoo.com The Sister Girl Series is available on www.Amazon.com ©2022 SISTAH Talk eMagazine – All Rights Reserved.
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PAMPERRYPR.COM
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FOLLOW DR. CHERYL’S MASTERCLASS https://www.facebook.com/15MinutesofMasterclasswithDrChery
Tips for WELL-BEING IN 2022 It is important that we, as women, maintain personal well-being. After all, we are busy people, right? We are spouses, mothers, caregivers, pastors and ministers, entrepreneurs, administrators, presidents, and CEOs, and the list goes on. We have a lot on our plates.
experience, and you are intentionally concentrating, and are aware of what you are doing. Mindfulness is known to reduce anxiety and stress.
You may have heard the term well-being many times. So, what is well-being? Well being is “a positive state that includes striving for optimal health and life satisfaction” (Grison & Gazzaniga, 2022).
➢ Intentionally engage in living a purposeful and meaning life.
Achieving and maintaining optimal health and life satisfaction is necessary, and it is easier than you may think. Here are some tips for well-being, that is, optimal health and life satisfaction:
➢ Practice your method of spirituality.
Practice being mindful. Mindfulness means you have the ability to be present in a given moment and aware of where you are, and what you are doing. A simple mindfulness technique is to put your bare feet on the floor and consciously experience what your feet are feeling. If the floor is tiled or hardwood, what does it feel like under your feet? If the floor is carpeted, what are your toes sensing as you move them back-andforth across the carpet? That’s it! You are being present in the moment of the
Here are some additional tips for your wellbeing in 2022:
➢ Write a letter of gratitude to someone you want to thank.
➢ Eat and drink healthy. ➢ Learn to relax. ➢ Learn to cope. Here’s to an optimal healthy, purposeful, meaningful 2022 that results in your complete life satisfaction. ~ Reference Grison, S. & Gazzaniga, S. A. (2022). Psychology in your life (4th ed.). W. W. Norton & Company. ©2021 Dr. Cheryl Merchant – All Rights Reserved.
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For any inquiries, prayer, motivation or mentoring and for bulk books orders of over 10 or more copies please contact us via email or fill out the form on the website. Email: laticia@laticianicole.com Tel: (919) 407-8528 www.laticianicole.com
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Relentless Execution by Yolanda Spearman
Today more than two thirds of the working population feel disengaged at work. While a study in an issue of the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin indicates that about 90% of the adult population lives with regrets. No person is born with regrets, many die with them. The day we allow ourselves to stop dreaming is the day we begin to live with our very first regret. Relentless Execution is about accomplishing your dreams. This book gives you a foundation to help you understand how you can set up internal systems that will allow you to finish more of what you start. This is a light-hearted fun read. It is relatable and will bring a smile to your face and a pen to your hand. Yolanda poses thought provoking questions throughout the book to keep you engaged and to encourage you to act. Many self-help books offer traditional plans to successful living. Relentless Execution uses testimonials to peel back the emotional layers that may be holding you back from achieving optimal results. Relentless Execution pushes you to: •
Do what makes you happy
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Find your focus
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Follow through on your goals and aspirations
The Author makes it easy and fun to connect the dots and find your personal path to success however that may look for you.
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