Pearl Sistahs Magazine January 2016 by Stephanie McKenny

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TAKE A PEEK.... Pearl Wearing Days, 5 From the Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Desk, 6

Walking By Faith, 38

Cover Story

7 Greater Is Coming

Inspirational

36 Pursuing Your Purpose 25 Stay Focused 13 Chart Your Course

Jekalyn Carr Vanessa Fleeton Jeneen Jefferson Gwendolyn Young

Health 23 Healthier You Dr. Dianna Ravenell 38 Obesity and Diabetes

Relationships 19 Is The Grass Greener?

Alexias Singleton

Female Gospel Artist 27 Teresa Lindsey 21 Taisha Nowell Brown 33 Bernice Lohman

Daily Living

11 Work/Life Balance 15 Late Initiative 25 5 Keys To Release Your Past

Michelle Garrett Johnson Gerri Powell Dr. Racquel Stuart

Visionary Woman 17 Zakiya Esper

Young Girls With Vision 31 Phenomenal Pageant Mhorgan Stephens

Business 29 Business Spotlight Nathele Roberson

MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTORS

Editor-in-Chief Publishing Company Graphic Designer

Stephanie L . McKenny J & J Publishing Sherilyn Bennett

Contributing Writers For This Issue

VANESSA

JENEEN

FLEETON

JEFFERSON

DR. DIANNA

ALEXIAS

RAVENELL

VISIONARY

SINGLETON

ZAKIYA ESPER

MICHELLE GARRETT JOHNSON

GERALDINE POWELL

STEPHANIE McKENNY

CHERYL WOODS

GWEND0LYN YOUNG

PEARL

Wearing Days WE CAUGHT YOU WITH YOUR PEARLS ON

FROM THE

EDITOR’S DESK... Greetings to all of my Pearl Sistahs! I’m so thrilled to be able to share this issue with you this quarter. It truly is a blessing to be able to see another year. It amazes me how the Lord keeps us and preserves us for His great work. You can rest assure that God has a divine purpose for your life. Just because you are alive today is a distinct indication that your life has purpose and significance. As we swiftly move into this New Year, I know that there are some specific things that you must accomplish this year. No need to concern yourself about the past failures or mistakes because yesterday is already gone. It’s a new year and a new season. Shake yourself from your past and move forward because God is doing a new thing in your life. His divine plan will amaze you.

God is always up to something bigger and greater than you could ever imagine. He wants to do a new thing in your life; allow it to spring forth in your life. Yes, my dear Pearl Sistah, I believe greater is coming! You can believe that. Shift your mindset and begin to focus on the many great things that are going to take place in your life this year. As you read through the articles of this issue, please allow the words of the contributing writers’ minister to you to encourage you through this year. Know without a shadow of a doubt that GREATER IS COMING!

In Isaiah 43:18-19 it says: “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” The first part of that scripture clearly tell us to remember not the former things; neither consider the things of old. Some things we really need to forget and let go of because holding onto to it is not going to benefit us in the long run.

Honored to serve,

6 P E A R L S I S TA H S M A G A Z I N E

AWARD-WINNING GOSPEL ARTIST

During the time that Greater Is Coming was birthed my family and I were experiencing a lot. My dad had lost his job. We were under a lot of pressure, but yet we were believing God for a break through. At this time in our lives it felt like we were going through the shaking, beating and pressing. One day my dad went to church and came home and said, “I have this song for you that God has given me.” I connected with this song immediately because of where we were at that moment in our lives. In addition, the struggle in general that I had witnessed so many people facing. Greater Is Coming was birthed from that experience in my family life. We knew even though we were there at that moment, we would not be there forever, because we were expecting Greater.

JEKALYN Q: How long have you been singing gospel music? 30 years as long as I can remember? A: I have been singing gospel music ever since I was 5 years young, so for a total of 13 years.

Q: What has inspired you to sing gospel music? A: Well, I’ve been inspired to sing gospel music for 3 reasons: (#1.) I come from a singing family; I am a 4th generation and so it is an honor to just carry on the family legacy; (#2.) I always said that if GOD gave me my gift, why not use it in a positive way to bring Him glory. The scripture is true when it says “Only What You Do For Christ Will Last” ; and (thirdly), I love music that not just uplifts but also music that inspires and

encourages people; Therefore when I sing my music I love to see and hear how much people’s lives are being touched and changed through it. When the majority of us finds ourselves in difficult situations, we like to listen to music that helps encourages us in order for us to make it through the day. So I love it when people tell me God used my music as a tool to help them make it through their week. Q: Have you ever considered going mainstream and not sing gospel? If so, why? A: I’ve NEVER considered singing any other genre of music. I tell people it’s a dangerous thing when you don’t operate in your purpose

FEMALE GOSPEL ARTIST • AWARD-WINNING GOSPEL ARTIST JEKALYN CARR

or when you compromise who you REALLY are. You can barely function when you’re outside of purpose, but in God’s timing, you prosper when you’re in purpose. I AM A FAN OF GOSPEL MUSIC (Smile), especially traditional gospel music! Q: Have you ever recorded any CDs? If so, how was that experience? A: I have recorded 2 national albums entitled “Greater Is Coming” and “It’s Gonna Happen” I also just released my new single which is the remix of my song “Something Big” and it’s entitled “Something Big Live” both the albums as well as the new single is available on ITunes, Google Play, and Amazon. The making of all 3 was an AMAZING experience! Q: Have you ever sang with any well-known gospel artists or legends? If so, how was that experience? A: I had the privilege to collaborate with two of my favorites which are Pastor Shirley Caesar and Evangelist Dorothy Norwood. Along with other great artist such as Earnest Pugh, Alexis Spight and also Dr. Jamal Bryant. Q: What words of wisdom would you share for anyone just getting started in the gospel music industry? A: I want to encourage those who are getting starting in the music industry to not lose focus

of why you’re really suppose to be doing what God has called you to do and that reason is to bless His people. Stay pure towards God, His people, and your purpose! Don’t compromise your anointing to satisfy the enemy. Even in the way you dress, Jesus wants us to look good as we go before His people, but He also wants us to look classy. Remember we represent Jesus, so when people see you they should not only hear Jesus through you but they should also see Jesus in you. You have to portray yourself in a way that everything from your anointing to your looks works together for your good. Also, somethings are not going to happen overnight, wait on God and let Him order your steps because God knows when it’s your time, you’ll know, and all men will know and will call you blessed. Don’t try to rush things, but trust God to take you, in His timing, where your anointing is needed. I love you! Q: How can we connect with you? A: If you want to stay connected to me and my ministry, feel free to log on to all of my social media below for ministry updates: Website- www.myjekalyncarr.net Instagram- @JekalynCarr Facebook- Jekalyn Carr Twitter- @JekalynCarr Periscope- @JekalynCarr

Your Time to Soar Is NOW – Nurture Your Entrepreneurial Momentum!

(Cheryl Wood, International Speaker, Transformation Coach & Author (www.cherylwoodempowers.com)

Momentum is all about motion and forward movement. It is unquestionably one of the most critical elements for achieving entrepreneurial success. You must keep moving at a consistent pace that produces results! Many startup businesses begin strong but lose momentum in the face of challenges, obstacles, and roadblocks. If you want to soar in your business and have a sustainable and profitable enterprise, momentum must be nurtured for the longhaul, similar to a runner in a marathon who refuses to stop until they cross the finish line. I had to learn this valuable lesson when I began my transition from a fulltime corporate

job into fulltime entrepreneurship. As I embarked upon my big dream, I came out of the gate with unparalleled momentum, excited about the new opportunities, relationships, and experiences my business would present. But I didn’t factor in the ongoing momentum that I would be required to nurture. Soaring in business is dependent upon a longterm investment of time, energy, effort, and movement even when things aren’t going the way you planned. Nurturing momentum involves implementing and executing even when you don’t feel like it, even when it appears that nothing is happening, and even when it’s easier to throw in the towel. Nurturing momentum means you refuse to “make a Uturn on your dream”… you keep moving forward! In the early years of my business, I had to wake up and smell the coffee and realize that “overnight success” just didn’t exist. If you want it, you have to have “crazy glue continued

Your Time to Soar Is NOW – Nurture Your Entrepreneurial Momentum! commitment” to keep talking about what you do, keep building relationships, keep promoting, keep educating and informing, and keep serving. Gaining the initial momentum in your business is the easy part because things seem exciting and new. However, nurturing your momentum as time goes on is what often presents a challenge. After all, how do you nurture momentum when you don’t have customers lined up to buy your products and services? When you repeatedly get knocked down by challenges? When your revenue projections fall short? The best way to nurture your momentum is to consistently reflect on your WHY – why did you decide to pursue the business in the first place? Why did you choose to step outside of your comfort zone? Why is your big dream worth the sacrifices? Nurturing momentum

involves staying focused on your ultimate destination in business, not despising small beginnings, and constantly moving even when you don’t know the HOW of every goal you need to achieve. You remember that every small step leads to another and before you know it you’re gaining momentum from one goal towards another goal until you reach your big dream. Another vital part of nurturing momentum is to eliminate one of the greatest entrepreneurial inhibitors: negative selfchatter. Early in my journey, as I worked diligently to gain credibility and grow a successful speaking and coaching practice, I had to shift my inner dialogue and redirect my selftalk to reinforce that I had the personal power to do whatever I set my mind to, and that I could build enough momentum to keep pressing forward even when it wasn’t easy.

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WORK-LIFE BALANCE Work-life balance is one of those ideals that, for many, is in a galaxy far, far away. You hear others speak of it, but the concept itself seldom seems attainable. by Michelle Garrett Johnson

Wikipedia defines work-life balance as a concept that includes proper prioritizing between “work” (career and ambition) and “lifestyle” (health, pleasure, leisure, family and spiritual development and meditation). That is a lot of areas to focus on when you consider the 24 hours we are given each day. Trying to cram it all into our schedules leads to unhealthy stress, unproductivity, irritability, lack of concentration and a laundry list of other issues.

The thing about work-life balance is that many of us have been approaching it as a onesizefitsall solution to every aspect of our lives. The reality is it just does not work that way. Our lives will never fit into neat little boxes. My work-life balance looks different than yours and hers. Throughout life, your true worklife balance will go through changes. Rather than attempt to mirror what others appear to do, reflect on your current personal and professional situation to determine where you need to focus and give your attention. A simple task that will help you is to print out weekly calendars with timeblocks. Write your commitments and block off sacred time for family and selfcare. Seeing what you have committed your time to in black and white will give you a snapshot of what your current balance (or lackof) looks like and help you to begin shifting and rearranging commitments. Balance may not equate to equality. Many women feel they should dedicate equal amounts of time to Continued P E A R L S I S TA H S M A G A Z I N E

WORK-LIFE BALANCE today’s society, busyness is given a badge of honor. An essential question to ask ourselves: are we productive with the numerous tasks, activities and commitments we have? Do these commitments reflect our true purpose and focus in life? If not, it may be time to delegate and eliminate some of them. It is okay to say no or refer requests for your presence to others that are as capable as you are to handle them. This prevents overcommitting yourself and alleviates feeling overwhelmed and unproductive.

their personal and professional lives. Realistically, that simply is not feasible or attainable for most of us. There will be times you must dedicate more time to your work – peak seasons, a large project due or (if you work for yourself) the initial startup of your company. For most the ideal solution is to designate most of your time to family and friends. Keep this in mind when choosing to take on additional business tasks that require more of your time. It may be cliché, but remember, your business; ‘yes’ may mean a personal ‘no.’ It is important to consider this when making your decision. Establish boundaries. Personally, I believe in adding family and “metime” to my calendar first. Those responsibilities take precedence over professional requests. I have set those boundaries to assure my commitment to being present and available for my family. It is important for all of us to establish similar boundaries and stick to them. This puts you in control of your schedule and is a huge step in reclaiming the balance that seems to elude us. Delegate and eliminate. Take a look at your commitments calendar. If after adding all of yourresponsibilities there seems to be no space left for selfcare and family time, it is time to look at delegating and eliminating responsibilities. In P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

Leave time for yourself. Often when we contemplate work-life balance, we factor in careers, spouses or significant others, children and organizational obligations. In other words, we account for everything and everyone except ourselves. However, proper selfcare is essential to remaining healthy and whole. In her book, Thrive, Arianna Huffington, cofounder and editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post, shares how she found herself passed out, bruised and bleeding from exhaustion. This experience led her to redefine her views on success and stop forsaking selfcare, sleep and life, in general to gain success. The two can coexist, it’s called work-life balance for a reason. There is truly a lesson in her experience that many women should take heed to. For most of us, our families depend on us as their caretakers and nurturers. Taking care of ourselves allows us to take better care of our loved ones. While the “perfect” balance may not be easily attained, the “rightforyou” work-life balance can be achieved with small changes to your present commitment to your personal and professional priorities. Michelle D. Garrett is a native of Charleston, South Carolina. She is the founder of Divas with a Purpose. She uses the term DIVAtude to describe women who are driven, inspiring and called to action in their personal and professional lives.

Chart Your Own Course! Gwendolyn Young

G.L. Young Consulting Corporation Are you tired of doing the same thing, living the same life, and getting the same results? I know I am. So often, in my work with helping entrepreneurs create strategic operating plans for their business, I find that many want success but few are truly willing and ready to do the work. At some point, we must get intentional about the things we want to see happen in not only our businesses, but also in our lives.

Remember, growth doesn’t just happen! Ask yourself, when was the last time you truly got intentional about your life? Have you created a personal growth plan? Do you have a strategic plan for your business? What about your family – is there a vision mapped out for the legacy you want to leave behind? All of these things require INTENTION and should not be left to chance. James Allen, author of As a Man Thinketh, wrote “People are anxious to improve their circumstances but are unwilling to improve themselves; they therefore remain bound.” Selah –pause and really think about that. What are you allowing yourself to remain bound to?

Intention, according to MerriamWebster. com, is defined as: • the thing that you plan to do or achieve : an aim or purpose • a determination to act in a certain way • what one intends to do or bring about

This year is not about resolving things, yet about creating and charting the course for your life. Charting the course for your life means to plan it in “detail,” so much so that you specifically outline what you want to do, how you plan to do it, anticipate what the barriers might be to getting it done, and how you plan to measure your success.

Continued

P E A R L S I S TA H S M A G A Z I N E

Thanks to Stedman Graham’s book titled “You Can Make It Happen,” we’ve come across nine steps to help you get started: • Check Your ID

Do some selfexamination, healing, and self renewal.

• Create Your Vision

Discover your passion, define it, and then document it.

• Develop Your Travel Plan

How are you going to make that vision into reality? Set some goals, create an action plan.

• Master The Rules of the Road

Prepare for the challenges, stay focused

• Win By A Decision

Learn to think with your mind and heart

• Step Into The Outer Limits

Calculate the risks involved, utilize your talent and skill to its highest potential

Chart Your Own Course! • Pilot The Seasons of Change

Learn to sharpen the saw and the importance of emotional intelligence

• Build Your Dream Team

Forge strong partnerships, surround yourself with people who are passionate about your vision

• Commit To Your Vision

Honor the commitment you made, stick with it!

I won’t tell you that goal setting and making your dreams happen is easy, because it’s not. It takes time, energy, resources, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment, YET the outcome of achieving your goals can be most rewarding. So, this month I challenge you to write the vision and make it plain. If you dare, send us your travel plan to glyconsulting@gmail.com and show us that you’ve made a decision to chart your own course.

THE LATE INITIATIVE Are you a late person? Do you dishonor deadlines? Are you always the last one in the important door? Do you get the evil eye at work, even though you do an EXCELLENT job? Do your children have to wait an hour past pick‐up time for you to show up? Or have your children advised you a school program begins an hour early just to get you there almost on time? WHYYYYYYYYYY…Ok – another exposure from personal experience. I used to be and still do suffer from that age‐old CP time. Now, barring any racists insults, it is an old saying that has surpassed and excused being late to general overall behavior. We chuckle at the history in that statement, but it is a reality for many of us. Today, I address the issue, because I have made an intentional effort to “stop my madness” of being late to everything. My sister (Yolanda Rae Carroll) explained being late to me in a way that truly hurt my feelings. It was said, with a low volume, loving, and direct eye contact and piercing precision. She said, “When you are late, you are disregarding and disrespecting other people’s time, schedules and deadlines. You solely are telling the person who is waiting on you that you could care less about their time. You are blatantly acknowledging in action

By: Geraldine Powell

that you don’t care what inconvenience they are experiencing by your late arrival or submittal.” Now, I’m no thin‐skinned Sistah, but I must say that listening to it put to me in this manner made me realize that for 20 years or so, I’ve been giving people my keister to kiss every time I showed up late or submitted something passed the deadline. There is no reason why the majority can arrive early or on‐time and I stroll in looking like everyone should be honored I graced them with my presence. My Bishop (David G. Evans) says the following…when you are 15 minutes early, you are on time; when you are right on the dot, you are late; when you are late, that is unacceptable. I began to embrace this attitude and then fell back into my old habits just based on my lack of preparation. I am a dedicated piddler  by nature, meaning that when I get up in the morning, I must do stuff around the house before I begin my day. I straighten up, put away clothes, put away the previous nights washed or dried dishes; sweep, vacuum, etc., etc., you get what I’m saying – “Piddling.” This is my morning coffee, my wake up ritual. I don’t want to play with the kids, hear the news, walk the dog, I want to piddle around the house so when I leave, it is the way I want it when I return home. This all in itself is a pitfall for me because I can truly get carried away and lose track of time. I used to get up time enough to make the kids breakfast, make their lunches and get them off to school. If I drove them, they were always late, if they left on their own, they were on time. This was my piddling and then I’d start my preparation for work with 15‐20

Continued

THE LATE INITIATIVE minutes for a shower, hair, get dressed and drive to work. I had to be the last one in the bathroom, still do, so I could clean out the sink and get the ring from the toilet and the tub. I know I must sound crazy (OCD), but Whateverrrr! Lol. Now, I’m not sure where you position yourself in these scenarios of wrongness, but my prayer and excited goal is that you will see yourself somewhere and make a change. The saying “a man’s word is his bond” needs to mean something in this day and time. It needs to be his/her mantra…when you say you will arrive on time, you do; when you commit to submitting something on time, you do; when you agree to meet friends at a certain time, you do; YOUR WORD IS YOUR BOND!! By on time, I don’t mean at the agreed upon time but 15‐20 minutes early. That is on time!!! Now to say the least, I HATE getting there first and no‐one else is on time, the event location is still in set‐up mode, the doors are locked and I can’t get in; the presentation arena is still arriving, and on and on

I can go. But in my own defense, I can relate to their mindset and celebrate that I no longer have it. The goal here is to do our best to honor our Father in heaven who’s always on time. He is never late and His presentations are always on point. He is our example for which we need to follow. Now… to say the least, we are fallible, but the key here is to rise above our proclamations of imperfection and embrace the newness of punctuality. Pay attention to your viewing audience, the listening arena becomes a lot more attentive when the keynote speaker is in place on time. Though my writing today may be brief, I pray the words afforded me by my Father have embedded your thought process and exchanged your old thoughts for some new ones. Our actions always speak louder than our words. When we arrive late, we say in action that we don’t care about someone else’s time constraints. What messages are you sending in action?

Zakiya Esper Q: Give us your name, where you are from and some general information about you. A: I was born and raised in Columbia, SC before moving to Charleston for college. I graduated from the College of Charleston in 2010 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. While in Charleston I met my husband Darnell who I’ve been married to for 4 years. We have since moved back to Columbia and we have a beautiful 2 year old daughter named Ryan who will become a big sister in December. Q: When did you begin your organization and what inspired you to do so? A: While I was an undergrad student in Charleston I worked at a nonprofit organization called Florence Crittenton Programs. Florence Crittenton serves expecting mothers in a group home setting. I found so much fulfillment working with these girls who were frustrated with their circumstances but desperate to learn and grow. Working at Florence Crittenton allowed me the opportunity to understand the nonprofit sector and I fell in love with the industry. After graduation I landed a position with the Department of Juvenile Justice as a juvenile probation officer. In Charleston County I held a caseload as high as 93 juveniles. I became so frustrated with the high rate of repeat offenses and the lack of resources. I found myself in a training session one day vigorously scribbling down all of the services that were needed in Charleston County for the children that I was attempting to serve. I named the program that I had just written “Sowing Seeds into the

Lowcountry” (as I was still in Charleston County). I showed it to my husband and a couple of friends and family who were very impressed. I tucked my “impressive” idea off into a drawer and got back to work as a juvenile PO. In 2012 my husband and I decided to move to Columbia. I was granted a transfer to Richland County DJJ in the same position. In Richland County I had a much more manageable caseload but I still lacked the reputable resources in the area to keep my clients from reoffending. I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that in the capital of our state and with a caseload that was reasonable I still couldn’t help these children get the help they needed. After lots of coaxing from my family and friends I began to take concrete steps in establishing Sowing Seeds into the Midlands (Seeds) in October of 2013 in hopes of standing in the gap for the troubled youth in our area. Q: What are some of the struggles that you faced working with this organization as you began to build it? A: When I set out to begin Seeds I had a full time job, my family had moved less than a year ago, and I was a first time mom of a 6 month old. Finding the time to devote quality and adequate attention to Seeds was nearly P E A R L S I S TA H S M A G A Z I N E

VISIONARY WOMAN - ZAKIYA ESPER impossible. I also had a very hard time finding nonprofit Executive Directors who were also Founders. This made it difficult for me to find a mentor who really understood the struggle of establishing a nonprofit from the ground up. Q: What are some of the triumphs that you faced working with this organization as you began to build it? A: One of the biggest triumphs for me was going public with my plans and ideas and how well received they were. The outpouring of support from family, friends, coworkers, and the community was overwhelming. In August of 2014 my husband and I decided that it was time for me to give Seeds my undivided attention. I left my job with DJJ and set out on a faith walk (with no funding in sight) to stand in the gap for troubled youth. Leaving DJJ and knowing that we made the right decision was a huge accomplishment for me career wise but was also a testament to my growth spiritually. Q: Give us some overall information about your organization and the people you serve. A: Sowing Seeds into the Midlands is a nonprofit organization offering support programs to Midlands teens (13‐18) and their families when facing difficulties at home, school and in the community. We are committed to helping teens identify and build upon their strengths, while embracing their weaknesses and developing skills to overcome them. The services offered in our programs will include counseling, mentoring, tutoring, GED prep, and life skills development. All of our programs are tailored to meet the needs of Midlands teens identified by local lawenforcement agencies and school P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

officials. Everyone benefits from these services as parents are better equipped to manage their children and teens develop the skills necessary to be selfsufficient, productive members of society. Q: What wisdom and/or advice would you share with the women readers about your journey? A: The most important thing I’ve learned since starting this journey is to always remember why you started. Remembering why I started has helped me to avoid mission creep. I know what it is that Seeds has set out to do so I’m not easily pulled in different directions. People are very quick to see something you’ve built and try to attach their dream or agenda to it. Remember what you’ve set out to do and your mission will be accomplished. Also, remembering why I started has helped me stay focused when I get weary. I have a number of former clients who come to mind who I know would have benefitted from the services that Seeds offers. So when I get frustrated with the lack of funding, volunteers, red tape, etc. I think of those children who deserved to have had the help that Seeds will provide and I press on. Q: What do you want to be known for and how do you want to be remembered as? A: I want Seeds to be known as a safe, reputable, and effective place for teenagers and their families to seek help and growth. Personally, I’d like to be known as someone who does her best to love like Jesus loves. I would hope that the work that I’ve set out to do shows that I seek to sow into the community and I help our teens be the best versions of themselves possible.

Is The Grass Really Greener On The Other Side?

by: Alexias Singleton

“I’m just not happy, I want a divorce!” is what I told my husband. At the time, we were married going on four years. We had no kids together, although he wanted one. We bought a house in a nice subdivision, we found a Church we could call ours, we both had good jobs and vehicles, and all our bills were paid we were living the American Dream. You see on the outside everything looked perfect. So now you may be wondering, what was the problem? To simply answer the question, I was the problem. You know that saying, “Hurt people; hurt people,” well, I know for a fact it’s true. At the time I didn’t know it, but I didn’t love myself therefore I couldn’t love my husband or my marriage. Sure, if you looked at me you wouldn’t know it, and you would probably think I had it all figured out. Sadly, so did I and I didn’t realize I was looking to my husband for my happiness instead of first being happy with myself. I’m not saying there was no fault on his end because it does take two to make a marriage work, I’m simply taking ownership for the part I played since I was the one who initiated the divorce. So after a year of separation; we divorced.

Party over here, party over there!!! Yeah, I celebrated. I just knew I was going to find my “perfect” Boaz. I dated a few guys here and there, but if I ever mentioned I wanted to be married they seemingly disappeared. Which in retrospect was a good thing or I’d only be repeating the same line, “I’m just not happy, I want a divorce.” At this point I’m asking God what is the problem? If you haven’t guessed it yet, he showed me myself. I began working on my selfishness and learned how to love myself. I learned to turn to God to meet and supply ALL my needs (spiritually, emotionally, and financially) and not man. I finally got to a place where I was happy with me. As God would have it, two years later I’m out with my mom in a shopping center and I see him. Who? My Boaz! How do I know? After all those years I see him and my heart flutters. Yes, I’m talking about my exhusband. I’m forever grateful to God, because after reconnecting we, remarry and our miracle baby is born. I can only believe that God worked on him just as much as he did me so that He could get the glory for our testimony. To address if the grass is greener on the other side; I would say, the grass is greener where you grow it! And to grow strong healthy grass, we must first grow individually.

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FEMALE GOSPEL ARTIST • GOSPEL ARTIST TAISHA

Q: How long have you been singing gospel music? A: 30 years as long as I can remember

Taisha

Q: What has inspired you to sing gospel music? A: I grew up in the church. So music and God have always been apart of my life. I think what inspired me to become an artist was wanting to bridge the gap between God and man by reminding people that God still loves them. Q: Have you ever considered going mainstream and not sing gospel? If so, why? A: Yes I have. It seems like the world or secular supports their own more then the church. There is alot of crabs in the bucket in gospel. But im reminded daily that only what you do for Christ will last.

Q: Have you ever recorded any CDs? If so, how was that experience? A: Yes, I have two singles out now. “Vessel” and “Love Story” The experience was awesome. Both producers Moses Andrews and Ridrick King are humble producers who are amazing to work with. Q: What are the names of your CDs? (if applicable) A: The singles out on I tunes Cd baby and other digital media are Vessel and Love Story Q: Have you ever sang with any well-known gospel artists or legends? If so, how was that experience? A: I have. James moore, Ricky Dillard, Chrystal Rucker, just to name a few. Ricky Dillard was the craziest experience he had us working out for sure lol. We literally started passing out doing the concert.

Q: What are your future plans for your Q:What words of wisdom would you share FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE for anyone just getting started in the gospel ministry of gospel singing? TAISHA’ LOVES GOD THROUGH MUSICAL WORSHIP A: My plans is to do as much as I can to sing/ music industry? write words that compell people to come to A: Be you. Know who God has called you to Anointed, Beautiful, Melodious, Spiritfilled, Authentic, Powerhouse, and Refreshingly Unique are be and espire to be the bestvyou in God you God. some adjectives to describe singer/songwriter, Taisha NowellBrown. She is determined to give the can be. Remember Kingdom work is about people of God what God has given her, music to lift the souls and glorify our heavenly father. compelling men to see God not see you. Taisha’s incomparable sound will have anyone in tears, singing to the top of your lungs, smiling, and praising God like never before.

Taisha’s current recording journey

Minister. Author. Entrepreneur.

Taisha’s 2015 E.P. project titled “Heart Songs” is the outward expression of her true heart as a worshiper. The lyrics birthed during those times she could only rely on God. As a hair and make‐up stylist. She has transformed the human body for over half of her life. She believes transformation isn’t vital unless it happens with the renewing of the mind and then the HEART. “Heart Songs” is the stride to change the person’s heart and mind through the musical word of God. She believes greatly in the transforming power of God and considers herself a witness to that authority because God had to change her. Now, she is convinced that it is her calling to change all who come in contact with her from the inside out. Pastor Stephanie McKenny, is an anointed speaker and

Do you need a speaker for your event?

workshop facilitator. Stephanie conducts an annual

TOUR women’s retreat and facilitates various workshops/ MAKEOVER

conferences for women. Stephanie McKenny is the Founder P.E.A.R.L. LLCof and P.E.A.R.L. Sistahs “MakeOver” is of the tour and Sistahs, forerunner Taisha’s recording Magazine. Pastor McKenny is currently in the process project. The sole purpose of this tour is to MAKEOVER every city of organizing a non-profit organization for girls (Pearly and town visited to prepare HEARTS for Jesus Christ through music. Girls The Empowerment tour consists of Program). local artist. Current locations are Canton, Ohio; Greenville, SC; Atlanta, GA; Fayetteville, NC; and Pastor Stephanie McKenny is an author of six books and Columbia, SC. Currently still accepting dates from interested cities!

the owner of J & J Publishing Company. If you need an impactful for your nextIn event not hesitate Taisha’s a fresh speaker twist to gospel music. love do with hymns yet to Pastor Stephanie McKenny! stylish Book and contemporary enough for this generation, Taisha’s desire is for the world to hear the message God has given her FOR BOOKING: lyrically. Taisha’ is on the rise as a gospel artist with her 803.968.5196 • slmckenny@gmail.com traditional influence and innovative approach. ###

New Year, New Healthier You … 21 Days at a Time By Dr. Dianna Ravenell The beginning of a New Year is such a wonderful time. Most of us are still riding high from the love, fellowship and good times of the holiday season. What better time to start fresh? You can take up a new hobby, learn a new language, get out of debt, or lose weight. This is the time about 45% of Americans make what we call a New Year’s Resolution. The word resolution in this sense is defined as, “a firm decision to do or not do something.” The majority of New Year’s Resolutions have to do with selfimprovement, either spiritually, mentally, or physically. Gym memberships go up and sales of exercise equipment increases. Just think about it, there is a line to use the machines at the gym in January. Come back in March and it’s a ghost town. Why is that? What happened to the “firm decision?” In as little as 8 weeks the number of people still working on their resolutions are less than half. As we move forward into the New Year, what can we do to make sure we are part of the 8% that achieves their goal? One word. Habits. The resolutions that we make signify a change in our thinking. However, we will never see the results we want without changing out actions (habits). Research shows that a change in behavior consistently done for 21 consecutive days will become a habit. If you consistently do (or don’t do) something for 21 days you will change or break a habit and be on your way to a new and healthier lifestyle. P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

As you begin to start this journey, you should have a visit with your doctor. If you don’t have a relationship with a primary care provider, now is good time to get one. It will give you a baseline to see where you are and if you have some potential areas of concern you need to work on. Is your blood pressure normal? Is your cholesterol elevated? What’s your blood pressure? For some goals, it is wise to make sure you talk with your doctor before starting. For instance, if your New Year’s resolution is to train for a marathon, your doctor can be a valuable partner in helping you plan the best course of action. Essential to your success is deciding your goal. You must have a clear, specific goal. “I want to lose weight” or “I want to eat healthier” are not specific enough. If weight loss is your goal, you must decide on a number. Think about a GPS. You have to put in a specific destination for it to work. Once you put in your destination there are several routes you can take but the end point is the same.

Continued

New Year, New Healthier You If you want to eat healthier, you can get specific with that as well. You need to eat a healthy breakfast, drink more water, eat more vegetables, increase your fiber intake, etc. It can be overwhelming to do all these things simultaneously, but you can make these things a part of your lifestyle one by one by specifically taking on each one 21 days at a time. For example, I had a really bad habit of skipping breakfast. After 21 days of making consistent effort of making sure I ate breakfast, now it feels odd if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. Make a detailed list and pick one to work on specifically to do daily for 21 days. Choose water instead of soda for 21 days. Have two veggies with each meal for 21 days.

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I know some of you are thinking 21 days is a long time. But, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s merely 3 weeks. So in 3 months (12 short weeks) you could have mastered drinking more water, adding more veggies to your meals, exercising in the morning, and packing healthy snacks. By taking them one at a time for 21 days you will be more successful and at the end of 12 weeks, you will have mastered 4 goals whereas most people who attempted to do it all at once have already tossed their resolution aside. The New Year is a great time to start something new. Invest time in being the best you. You are worth it.

NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS

STAY FOCUSED

By Jeneen Jefferson We are already well into 2016 and it is almost hard to believe we were just ringing in a new year a short while ago. Promises were made, goals were written, gym memberships were renewed; all with such motivation and excitement. However, the million dollar questions is have you remained on right track by keeping your focus? You know, are you still on the path to your future, destiny, dreams and hopes? Or have you taken a detour and sidetracked by this little thing called LIFE? Some of you will answer this with assurance and joy because you can say I kept my focus.Kudos too you!! That is wonderful; keep up the good work. I am not talking you guys, but tothose who have taken a side road and is currently lost and just

need a small push to get you going again. With that being said, your word for the hour is FOCUS! Trust me; I understand how easy it can be to fall back into those unproductive habits and practices because life does happen. When I say life I mean just that...LIFE. Things like caring for family (children, spouse, parents etc.), bills, health issues, car maintenance, house necessities, friendships, career obligations, church or other organizational duties, inner turmoil (negative selftalk). Things will happen and at times you may need to park and take a break, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay there, get back on the journey so that you can gain fulfillment. This is the start and stop factor that keeps us stagnant. These are the times where we need to go back and get motivated once again; reminding ourselves of why we wanted a greater and more abundant life in the first place. So now that we have established the problem, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offer the solution. There are a few things that has helped me and I will share them with you.

NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS STAY FOCUSED

Find an accountability partner This is a person who will hold you to your own goals and don’t mind getting in your face and business. They can come in the form of a coach, friend, mentor, pastor etc.

Take inventory of your life and remove negative distractions What things can you stop doing that has been taking up your time, attention and energy. This is inclusive of people, places and things.

Pray and meditate CHRISTIANS, meditation is NOT just for other religions. Meditation is designed for you to shut out the distracting voices in your own head in order to hear your clear instructions from God. If you are busy doing, you will miss the message.

4 5

Affirm and declare Tell yourself DAILY that your dreams and goals are attainable and you WILL see them come to fruition. If you don’t convince yourself, how will you ever stay motivated and inspired? Make a vision board If you can’t visualize the life you want then the excitement of achieving it diminishes. It is said “I will believe it when I see it;” but in your case you must adopt the attitude “As I see it, I believe it!”

6 7

Give yourself one small goal to complete daily Our goals are easier to reach if we take them in small doses. Make a list customized to your life and choose what to tackle first. Remember it is a process with many steps. Express gratitude for your progress and setbacks Being grateful for every aspect of your life is the key to gaining more good. Be grateful for progress because progress is encouragement and shows progression. Be grateful for setbacks because there is a lesson in each one. Connect with likeminded people – NETWORK. Attend groups sessions, organizations, MeetUps, LinkedIn, virtual events, seminars and conferences etc. Make sure all of the people you attempt to connect with are not identical to YOU. Meaning, connect with people from various socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, cultures, religious practices and genders. You can’t grow unless you expand your horizons.

Keeping your focus can be difficult, but it is doable. Just look at all of the famous entrepreneurs and millionaire business men/women in the world right now! Everyone will admit to having loss focus at some point of their journey, but they got back on track. Yes, I know life sometimes gets in the way but you have to remain on a relentless pursuit of your purpose. You will win, if you don’t quit!

FEMALES GOSPEL ARTIST

Teresa Lindsey Q: How long have you been singing gospel music? A: I have been singing Gospel Music since I was 6 years old Q: What has inspired you to sing gospel music? A: I would say my dad inspired me atching him on the choir and then discovering that I had a voice as well at that early age. Q: Have you ever considered going mainstream and not sing gospel? If so, why? A: Yes.. I sung In a R&B band when I first graduated High School we traveled all over.. but that was not what God had for me so I had too follow him Q: Have you ever recorded any CDs? If so, how was that experience? A: I have recorded a couple of singles.. The experience was exciting at the same time its lots of work. I recorded with my son, who is the primary producer on my Project coming out soon

Q: What are the names of your CDs? (if applicable) A: The name of the Single is “The Greatest” Q: Have you ever sang with any well-known gospel artists or legends? If so, how was that experience? A: Yes I have sung with Vanessa Bell Armstrong the experience was overwhelming she is a true legend. She is one of my greatest inspirations. I sung on the same platform as LeAndria Johnson, Vashawn Mitchell, Pastor John P Kee, Zarcardi Cortez, George Huff from American Idol..just to name a few… Q: What are the names of your CDs? (if applicable) A: The name of the Single is “The Greatest” Q: What are your future plans for your ministry of gospel singing? A: My future plans in the Gospel is to keep singing and doing Gods work..Just being prepared because I know that he has plans for Continued

FEMALE GOSPEL ARTIST • TERESA LINDSEY me to do awesome things in the kingdom, but I have to be prepared.. so he making me ready!!!! Q:What words of wisdom would you share for anyone just getting started in the gospel music industry? A: Words of Wisdom would be to always seek ye the Kingdom of God First and everything else will fall into place.. I would also say “get out of your own way” we are our biggest stumbling blocks.. Go for it with everything that’s in you.. Dare to

have a mind to not just succeed, but to exceed all limitations with God we can do that… My Motto is: I do not need to be validated by man.. With God I am already Super Star Status!!!! Q: How can we connect with you? A: My email is Teresawrightlindsey@gmail.com Facebook: Teresa Lindsey Instagram: lindseyT Twitter :twpsalmist

BUSINESS

S P OT L I G H T

Nathele Roberson Q: Give us your name, where you are from and some general information about you. A: My name is Nathele Roberson and I was born and raised in Eastover, SC. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from South Carolina State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Clark Atlanta University. Q: When did you begin your business and what inspired you to do so? A: I began my business on March 16, 2015. I was inspired to open my own business because I have always dreamed of being self窶親mployed. Q: What kind of business do you own and how long have you been in business? A: I am the owner of Premier Designs, which is a direct sales company specializing in jewelry distribution. I have been in business 4 months. Q: What are some of the struggles that you faced pursuing your business? A: The greatest struggle I faced in pursuing my business was finding the right time to start. Each time that I thought about it in the past, something would always happen and cause me to put it off. Q: What are some of the triumphs that you faced pursuing your business? A: Two triumphs that I faced after pursuing my business were having my Training Show, which was my introduction/launch into the business, and my first Home Show that I conducted to both retail over $800. That was an incredible start to my business.

Q: Tell us your overall story and/or testimony. A: I was introduced to Premier Designs thirteen years ago when I attended a jewelry show fundraiser that a sorority was hosting. I love jewelry and I was impressed with the jewelry selections, price and quality of Premier Designs jewelry. The jeweler that conducted the fundraiser show saw something in me and encouraged me to become a jeweler as well. I was interested, but the time never seemed right. In March, I found myself unemployed and down to my last $12. Q: Give us your name, where you are from and some general information about you. A: My name is Nathele Roberson and I was born and raised in Eastover, SC. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from South Carolina State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Clark Atlanta University. Q: When did you begin your business and what inspired you to do so? A: I began my business on March 16, 2015. I was inspired to open my own business because I have always dreamed of being self窶親mployed.

BUSINESS S P O T L I G H T

Nathele Roberson con’t Q: What kind of business do you own and how long have you been in business? A: I am the owner of Premier Designs, which is a direct sales company specializing in jewelry distribution. I have been in business 4 months. Q: What are some of the struggles that you faced pursuing your business? A: The greatest struggle I faced in pursuing my business was finding the right time to start. Each time that I thought about it in the past, something would always happen and cause me to put it off. Q: What are some of the triumphs that you faced pursuing your business? A: Two triumphs that I faced after pursuing my business were having my Training Show, which was my introduction/launch into the business, and my first Home Show that I conducted to both retail over $800. That was an incredible start to my business. Q: Tell us your overall story and/or testimony. A: I was introduced to Premier Designs thirteen years ago when I attended a jewelry show

fundraiser that a sorority was hosting. I love jewelry and I was impressed with the jewelry selections, price and quality of Premier Designs jewelry. The jeweler that conducted the fundraiser show saw something in me and encouraged me to become a jeweler as well. I was interested, but the time never seemed right. In March, I found myself unemployed and down to my last $12. I had been praying for an opportunity to become employed again and to eventually own my own business. This past spring, I became the co‐chair of the Women’s Day Weekend at my church. Likewise, I decided to do the jewelry fundraiser. I got in touch with the same jeweler that I met thirteen years ago and, once again, she urged me to join. I prayed about it and received a message from God that Premier Designs was the answer to my prayers. Q: What are your future plans for your business? A: My plan is to build my customer base by conducting at least 6 – 8 jewelry shows per year.

P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

YOUNG LADIES WITH VISION

do a lot of activities for the young people with special needs or disorders. I wanted to change that because in today’s society we’ve put this perception in a lot of teens minds that if they don’t look this way or act this way or have their hair like that and etc. then they aren’t beautiful. For many of us we know this isn’t true so I really wanted the girls to understand we all have something that makes us different. this is ok and we need to embrace our flaws because that’s truly what makes us unique and beautiful in our own way. Having a disability

Q: What is the program that you started? A: The program I started is a pageant called Miss Phenomenal Q: What is the purpose of the program? A: The purpose of it was to help empower and uplift the self-esteem and confidence of young girls. This pageant serves any young lady with a disability, disorder, or special need. Q: What inspired you to start the program? A: The reason why I started this pageant was because I felt like we as a community didn’t P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

myself I wanted them to know that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to stop you from living your dreams. These girls have voices that need to be hear so I really wanted to give them a night where they are the center of attention and they can just have fun. Q: What are your future plans for the program? A: My future plans for the pageant is to make it to where the girls can actually meet once a month for different types of classes teaching them self worth, etiquette, and letting them bond and make new friends. I also intend to let the pageant grow in the future and maybe one day this might include more than just District 2 high schools.

BERNICE Q: How long have you been singing gospel music? A: From the age of eight, I have been singing gospel music. Being raised in church, I became adapted to it quickly. I also began playing the piano and drums at that age also. Q: What has inspired you to sing gospel music? A: My relationship with God has inspired me to sing Gospel. To sing about the man I know and to see others get to know Him through my music is one of the best feelings in this world. Q: Have you ever considered going mainstream and not sing gospel? If so, why? A: When I was spiritually immature, yes. I thought singing a genre that my peers could relate to would be rewarding. I had started building a R&B live band as well. Even then, I felt God leading me to sing gospel only. Q: Have you ever recorded any CDs? If so, how was that experience? A: Yes, I recorded a poetry cd titled “Poetic Psalms”. This project is what I called “the David experience”. P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

Just as David shared his heart, I too shared every experience of my walk with Godwhether it was good or bad. If you have experienced church hurt, poverty, or distance from God, you can definitely relate to this cd. I learned a lot from this project. Music produced & engineered by yourstruly. I also was able to publish an Ebook with this cd. This gives readers a chance to read and hear the poetry. Q: What are the names of your CDs? (if applicable) A: Poetic Psalms Vol. 1 is the title of my poetry cd. I also have three singles on Cd Baby, Apple ITunes, Amazon, Spotify...”Without U”, “I Got a Feeling” and a free download “Hold On” featuring DRoc. Q: Have you ever sang with any well-known gospel artists or legends? If so, how was that experience? A: I’ve song with wellknown underground gospel hiphop artists and have opened up for Grammy Award winning artist, Lecrae. Well at the time, he was underground. The experience, just as other collaborations, were awesome.

FEMALE GOSPEL ARTIST â&#x20AC;˘ BERNICE LOMAN Q: What are your future plans for your ministry of gospel singing? A: My plans is to complete 3 more albums, continue to instruct in choir workshops, publish another lyrics ebook, visit Africa and record an album there, and so much more. With God, I can do it!

Q: What words of wisdom would you share for anyone just getting started in the gospel music industry? A: Pray! Develop a strong relationship with God. Praise and worship HIM and only in church or venues but at home. You cannot sing praise and worship if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t praise and worship.

PUSHING THROUGH THE PAIN TO

By Vanessa Fleeton I knew I was passionate about people who were raised without love and felt abandoned, those who searched for love and made mistakes in the process, and those who felt unworthy. These people were me and I had those feelings as well. God uses our painful experiences to lead us to our purpose. I first thought my passion was to help others manage their finances, but that’s just a gift. Whatever moves you is what you are drawn to, and that’s what you should focus on. What you would do without receiving payment is almost certainly what you’re passionate about. I prayed to God and asked Him to show me my purpose. I opened myself up to what he had to say. I remember sitting in church last year and the question posed by the leader was, “What do you want a double portion of?” I asked God to reveal my purpose and a husband that would complement that purpose. Soon after, God started revealing more of my purpose and opening doors for what I was sent to earth to do.

Years ago I searched for tee shirts with positive messages. I found several negative quotes, but didn’t see many uplifting ones. It was then that I thought about starting my own tee shirt line. Years later, I brought VAF Apparel (inspirational rhinestone products) to fruition. What you think you want may be totally different from what the Most High wants, and that is why you go into prayer mode to find out His plan for your life. I connect with people of like minds; who already operate their own businesses and can lead me in the right direction. When I vend at various events, even if I don’t make money, I walk away with great contacts that will help me to fulfill my purpose. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to reach your destiny. I’ve come to realize that you must learn new skills and perform some tasks for yourself. You can’t always depend on others to deliver certain services, so I decided to cut out the middleman as much as possible. Feelings of frustration will set in when those you depend on don’t follow through on their commitments in a timely manner or fail to provide quality work. You must remain determined and diligent to accomplish your purpose with or without Continued the assistance of others. P E A R L S I S TA H S M A G A Z I N E

PURSUING YOUR PURPOSE What motivates me most is when I see the end product of something I’ve designed or created, whether my rhinestone tee shirts, bags or bracelets. I get excited when I do something that’s outside of my comfort zone, especially when it turns out well.

I’m inspired when I envision speaking to thousands of people. When someone said to me, “I can see the anointing on your life and this isn’t a business for you, it’s your passion, I get chills just talking to you,” that pushed me to press onward.

One of the amazing things about walking by faith is that you may not know what is going to happen, but you know within your spirit that everything is going to work out for your good. It’s something about having faith in God that gives you the assurance that things are going to work in your favor. When we walk by faith, we are actually putting our total trust in God. Trusting in

great results. Follow His leading….He’s never steered you wrong. The plan of God for your life is so amazing because God thought about you before you were even born. He knew what characteristics to put in you so that you would walk in your greatness. You are definitely a designer’s original and great things are in store for your life….believe that!

His plan for our lives and trusting that He is going to align everything according to His divine plan. The Bible clearly tells us that if we acknowledge God, He will direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). When He provides us with the instruction to follow His direction, we must do that by faith. As we act upon our faith by putting God’s Word spoken to us into action, we will expense some

I encourage you today to have faith in God enough to believe that greater is coming in your life. Set it in your mind that something great is about to happen in your life. And even though obstacles may come, opposition may come and trials may arise; having faith in God gives you the confidence to boldly say in the midst of it all of that GREATER IS COMING!

P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

OBESITY AND

TYPE 2 DIABETES

Article from www.diabetesforecast.org

including type 2, heart disease, cancer, sleep apnea, and arthritis. Obesity has become far more common over the past few decades in the United States and around the world. A full third of Americans are obese and another third overweight. The scale of the epidemic is evidence of how difficult it is for many people to maintain a healthy body weight in the current environment of processed foods, big meal portions, and too few opportunities for exercise. But there are proven ways to lose pounds. Here are the basics on obesity, its causes, and slimming solutions.

They’re often mentioned in the same breath, but type 2 diabetes and obesity are, of course, not the same thing. Roughly one third of obese people will never develop diabetes, and 15 percent of those with type 2 diabetes are normal weight. Still, there’s such a strong association between the conditions that they’ve sometimes been referred to with a single term: “diabesity.” Being very heavy raises the risk for a host of health problems,

Growing Waistlines

Obesity usually stems from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The children of obese people are 10 times as likely to be obese as the offspring of trim parents, studies show. Some bodies are just genetically programmed to burn fewer calories, like a fuel-efficient car, and store the extra ones as fat. This efficiency is advantageous Continued P E A R L S I S TA H S M AG A Z I N E

when food is scarce, a situation often faced by our hunter-gatherer ancestors. But in a land of plenty, it leads to plenty of weight gain.

waistlines over that time. Plus, calories are cheaper today than in the past, making overeating more affordable than ever.

The striking increase in obesity levels is most likely also due to changes in the environment and society. Conventional wisdom blames such things as fast food that goes right to our waistlines and video games that keep us on the couch, but researchers haven’t really figured out with scientific certainty the causes of the epidemic.

Some groups are more likely to be obese than others, including former smokers, people with low incomes, and those with mental disorders or disabilities. And, of course, people who rarely exercise or move around tend to weigh more.

Scientists do know that to gain weight, people need to eat more calories than they burn. The spread of obesity could thus stem from an increase in food consumption, a decrease in physical activity,

A Healthy Weight

Health experts put bodies into four weight categories: underweight, healthy, overweight, and obese, with the heaviest people known as morbidly obese. The scale that is typically used to divide them is the body mass index (BMI), which is based on weight and height and correlates with how much body fat a person has. Body fat can be measured directly, but it’s rarely done in doctors’ offices. People with BMIs of less than 18.5 are considered underweight, 18.5 to 24.9 healthy, 25 to 29.9 overweight, and 30 and above obese (chart, left). A 6-foot-tall man who weighs 200 pounds has a BMI of 27.1; a 5-foot, 4-inch, 145-pound woman has a BMI of 24.9. There are plenty of online tools to calculate BMI; click here for a BMI calculator from ADA’s Website. (The formula for BMI is weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.) To do the figuring yourself, multiply your weight in pounds by 703, divide that answer by your height in inches, and then divide it again by your height.

or both. A recent article in the journal PLoS One found evidence that people burn fewer calories on the job than they did 50 years ago, which is enough alone to account for the growth in American

BMI is a good way to estimate health as it relates to weight, but it is far from perfect. Differences in body composition can skew results. Well-muscled people can have high BMIs despite low body fat. And the BMI’s relationship to health can differ by race or ethnicity. For example, people of Asian heritage tend to get diabetes at a lower BMI than other groups, possibly because they have more body fat. To get a more accurate idea of whether a person is at a healthy weight, doctors may measure waist circumference or waist-to-hip ratio. Continued

Down to Size

The recipe for shedding pounds is simple, even if the execution is not: Burn more calories than you consume. In short, eat less and move more. The key to losing weight by changing eating habits is being able to sustain the new lifestyle. Weight lost on extremely low-calorie â&#x20AC;&#x153;crashâ&#x20AC;? diets is likely to come back, while pounds dropped slowly and steadily may stay off for good. Plus, eating too few calories is linked to problems like gallstones, vitamin deficiencies, and fatigue. Keeping a food journal, seeing a dietitian, and finding ways to deal with stress besides snacking or overindulging may all improve the way one eats. Whether or not exercise helps people lose weight is surprisingly controversial, but most experts agree that working out is, at the least, essential for weight maintenance. Exercising increases energy expenditure, of course, but it may also trigger the desire for post-workout snacks or bigger meals. That kind of compensatory eating negates any calories burned. Even so, physical activity offers extra benefits for people with diabetes; for one, building muscle improves blood glucose control. If lifestyle changes arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t doing the trick, obese people and their doctors may consider other options like weight-loss medication or bariatric surgery. Orlistat (Alli, Xenical) is the only antiobesity medication currently available that is approved for long-term use. The two most popular types of weight-loss surgery are adjustable gastric banding and gastric bypass surgery, both of which can lead to a significant loss of excess body weight. Gastric bypass surgery, by reconfiguring the digestive tract, results in remission of type 2 diabetes in most patients independent of weight loss. Gastric banding helps with blood glucose control, too, but this is due to weight loss. For all but the heaviest people, dramatic weight loss may not be necessary to promote better health. For example, losing just 5 to 7 percent of body weight is an effective way to prevent type 2 diabetes in people with prediabetes. Research has shown that this amount of weight loss is achievable and sustainable through diet and exercise. Change is never easy, but trimming down obese frames leads to tangible rewards. A longer, healthier life is worth the effort.

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