The Journey Magazine - December 2015

the

JOURNEY MAGAZINE

Better Living Issue VOL 2. ISS. 2

December 2015

FEATURE: Murphy Liberated & Better

Love & Family Better Beginnings

Arts & Music Camryn’s Creations

Sports & Recreation Ballin’ with the Best

Design & Layout Min. Shwanda Williams Activism & Politics Min. Warche’ Downing Arts & Music Shwanda Williams Beauty & Fashion Brittney Cherry Business & Career Erica Perry Green Creative Expressions Lyndsae’ Peele Health & Fitness Nikki Ferguson Love & Family Juan & Monique Tuset Ministry Moment Min. Ashley Bradley Sports & Recreation Torrence Mourning

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Letter from the Editor

Volume 2 Issue 2 | December 2015 In this issue, we wanted to focus on being “better.” People consider themselves to look better because of what they wear or the style of their hair.

People consider life to be better with a happy family or financial stability. All of these are certainly forms of being better, but in this issue we want to showcase people who became better by way of an internal transformation. These people have decided to follow Jesus and make a difference in the lives of others. They were empowered and set free, now, they want to do the same for others.

This issue will show you how to be better without the accrual of things or the approval of people. You’ll read about people being better by being at peace, having a deeper relationship with God, and fulfilling their divine purposes. Have a look at these stories, hopefully as you read each article, you’ll feel yourself getting better.

Min. Shwanda J. Williams Editor-in-Chief

J

THE

Table of Contents

ARTICLES | DECEMBER 2015 www.facebook.com/the.journey.mag/ https://twitter.com/the_journey_mag

LOVE

Winston-Salem State University Photograph

SPORTS

PAGE 5

ART

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Photograph by: Artije Photography

Love & Family

Better Beginnings Juan and Monique are your typical

hard-working and traditional husband and wife team. Although they carry out each day as your normal husband and wife, their journey to matrimony was anything but conventional. I’m reminded of the scripture “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” Romans 12:2.

Prior to getting married, Juan and Monique dated for two years.

Throughout their dating experience, they both remained pure, abstaining from sexual intercourse. In addition to abstaining from intercourse, their first kiss came on their wedding day! Both in their early twenties, the Tuset’s have a purpose and a passion for the things of God. Current residents of Durham, NC, these newlyweds have been married less than a year, however, they’ve already begun to make an impact through their union. What they represent is rare in a society that almost teaches young people to be reckless, in life and in the bedroom.

They attend New Covenant Christian Church of the Triangle where they are ministers in training. They have already begun to minister through their lives and choices. Watch their VIDEO and listen to the words they offer pertaining to love, dating, marriage, family and life.

The New Mr. & Mrs. Tuset The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 5

Juan and Monique Tuset VIDEO

By: Shwanda Williams Photograph by: Artije Photography

Closing Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.�

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Feature Story

Ebonie B. Murphy, Owner of Heaven Scent Cleaning

Liberated & Better

Growing up, my parents always took me to

church. On Sunday mornings, on Wednesday evenings and if it was revival, throughout the week. I was on the youth usher board and I was also the youth Sunday School teacher in high school. But somehow, some way, when I went to college what I knew, I didn’t act on. I had a stage where I rebelled and sought to fulfill youthful lusts. But even in a rebellious state, there was something inside me that would only let me go so far. There was a longing and a desire to be whole. In the midst of not having prayed or visited church very much during my first two years of college, I began to seek to be whole again. The subject of this article expressed similar sentiments.

Ebonie Brown Murphy, a graduate of Bertie High School, entrepreneur, mother, wife, and most of all child of God sat down to talk with me about her business, her family and her journey back to God.

By: Shwanda Williams Photographs by: Shwanda Williams “When I was coming up, the best thing my mom did was take me to church.” Murphy began to talk about her routine as a young person in the house with her mom. How they went to church and even how her mom’s cleaning habits helped shape how she operates today.

The more we talked, we discussed similarities and how we came to repentance in our adult years. “I was just searching.

About six or seven years ago, I was so empty.

Not really having real happiness. I was living in a way that my mom didn’t raise me but I wanted peace.”

“I remember working at a bank and there was this girl who came in all the time. She had a glow you know.

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And I said to myself, I want that glow. At the time I felt so empty. So I connected with her and we began to talk and message one another online. So one day, I was at work and we begin to talk about God and salvation. I knew God, I grew up in the church but I strayed away. She told me I could receive salvation right there at my job, just to get up, go to the bathroom and pray this prayer. I did. From that point on, I was serious” stated Murphy.

As a mother of two young boys, Murphy talked about going to church and just desiring to be better. After making a decision to give her life back to God, she talked about visiting church. If I could express one thing to readers, who seek to turn away from their lifestyle of sin and lead a new life, finding a church where you can grow spiritually is so important.

Murphy and I found that. My personal experience was my senior year in college. I visited church periodically my junior year but this year, I found a church in Durham, NC. A few other young people went. The very first time I went, God touched my heart and I continued to press on, even when my friends didn’t go. I remember sitting in the back, just listening but fully intent on applying that word. The pastor preached a series of messages that seemed to speak directly to my life. I lived and didn’t die! Now, I’m a living sacrifice. Five to six years later, I’m still free with a made up mind.

Murphy too, found herself in a house of worship and on the brink of receiving a word that would help launch her business. One night she went to church and the bishop presiding told her she had an anointing on her life, an entrepreneurial calling.

Murphy stated that within weeks of receiving this word of prophecy, she began to write down the vision God gave her for what is now her own cleaning business, Heaven Scent Cleaning. Murphy also makes jewelry and other crafts. Her cleaning clientele is primarily based out of Pitt County, however, she does take on clients in Bertie and Martin counties.

Murphy spoke about her transition and also how surrounding herself with the right people has kept her focused. I’ve noticed that a person’s spiritual growth is often stagnated because of the company they keep.

I had a college friend to tell me once, “everyone can’t go where you’re going.”

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Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Now, I haven’t moved across states, or transitioned into a six figure salary job, but I have gone somewhere. There’s a scripture, Romans 12:2 that says “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” To change your actions, you have to change your mind and to change your mind, you have make up in your mind to obey the truth, which involves the work of the Holy Spirit and to be renewed in the spirit of your mind to help change your way of thinking. If everyone around you tells you that it’s okay to disregard the truth and live in a way that satisfies the flesh but results in spiritual compromise, it could be detrimental to your growth and your relationship with God. No one likes to feel lonely, but in those moments where you’re alone, God can really speak to you and clean some stuff up in your life. Extended exposure to a toxic lifestyle will produce long-term effects. We seek to be better.

Murphy describes herself as a go-getter and she’s passionate about the things of God. She’s also focused to raise her sons in such a way that helps them to become substantial young men. As Murphy seeks to serve others through her talents and help make them better, she also yields herself to God to allow Him to continually clean and mold her. It was a joy talking to her and I’m so glad to know others are seeking God for better.

Arts & Music

Creating Better Beauty

By: Shwanda Williams Photographs by: Jonathan Green

Camryn’s Creations Each person has a unique talent. Some people can take words and make beautiful melodies. Many people can take fabric and make beautiful garments. Others, like Miss Camryn Green, can combine colors and shapes to create wonderful art. Camryn Green is a sixth grader at Thales Academy in Rolesville, NC. I first discovered this young lady and her “creations” (her fan page is entitled Camryn’s Creations) through Facebook. While perusing through my news feed, I noticed her paintings through a mutual friend’s page which happened to be her mother, Erica Perry Green, believer of Jesus, entrepreneur, healthcare executive, and her daughter’s biggest fan. Not too long after that particular incident, I received an invite to Camryn’s fan page.

With over 500 likes, stemming from Facebook users across eastern NC and Wake County, this little artist is making moves.

I was so impressed by her pictures and to learn, at the time, she was only a fifth grader, I had to set up an interview. I recently had the opportunity to do just that. I sat down with Camryn Sisters at a Lifting Sisters event, a nonprofit organization founded by her mother, and we talked art, family, and hobbies. Along with Camryn, I spoke with her grandmother, Mrs. Linda Perry, whose inputs were certainly quote worthy.

Camryn is your typical 6th grader, with an artistic twist. She likes to swim, watch The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 9

television and travel. But, when she’s not doing typical kid-stuff, she’s creating extraordinary art. When I asked Camryn about her background in painting, she revealed that she’s been painting since the age of 4 and she’s either inspired in her paintings by things she see’s in her head or other images. And although this young lady has a great artistic talent, her favorite subject is science. Camryn was very comfortable in the interview, so much so, at one point I turned to her grandmother and asked what she thought the difference was between a child’s success and failure. Among many things, she stated, “As a parent, you have to make your children uncomfortable, until they’re comfortable.” I too can attest that some of the most memorable events and rewarding experiences in my life came when I was uncomfortable. But pushing through those uncomfortable moments helped me to, well as Mrs. Perry put it, be comfortable in almost any situation. Even if I’m still initially

uncomfortable, by the end of the experience, I’ve probably made a friend, gained valuable insight and left with a smile. I don’t know where Camryn is going, but I know she’ll have a caravan of support behind her and the desire to get there.

But she doesn’t want to wait until she’s older to make an impact, she wants to inspire kids her age now, especially through her paintings. As she put it, she’s a leader and a strong person who wants kids to know that they should never give up and to never allow anyone to keep them from achieving. Well Miss Camryn, I’m certainly inspired. After this writing this story, I’m better.

Closing Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Website: http://www.camrynscreations.com/

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Sports & Recreation Winston-Salem State University Photograph

Most recently Torrence Mourning, The Journey’s sports writer, spoke with international success and Bertie Native, Wykevin Bazemore. Check out the exclusive on this rising star.

By: Torrence Mourning Photographs Courtesy of WSSU Athletic Site

Q & A with Wykevin Bazemore,

graduate of Bertie High School in Windsor, NC and Winston Salem State University, Winston-Salem, NC.

Ballin’ with the Best

From one of Bertie fiercest rebounders in school history, to one of WSSU's greatest basketball players ever, Wykevin Bazemore has risen to the professional ranks and has demonstrated time after time over his career that it's not the size of dog but the fight inside it! Often shadowed by his brother Kent, Wykevin looks forward to make his name be known across the world and make NBA teams and scouts rethink why he wasn't worth the risk. I took time to speak with Wykevin to share his thoughts.

TM: Ok, I've known you since our YMCA days and watched you mature into a great player but an even better person off the court, what has been your main influence and motivation to your success?

WB: True. Uh I mean, I've always been known as a undersized player for the things that I do off the court, so hearing people tell me what I cannot do or achieve is my main motivation.

TM: Your college career was very succesful at Winston Salem State as you were named All CIAA for an impressive 4 years in a row, how can you describe that consistency of success?

WB: I mean, just putting in the time and work before the games are played will take you a long way, and having good teammates 12 | The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015

and coaches that believe in you, also helps.

TM: I completely agree. Obviously everyone knows you as Kent Bazemore's younger brother, who is currently starting for the Atlanta Hawks. How has he been a major influence in your life? And who else has been the biggest influence to you as a person beyond the court?

WB: Yeah definitely the biggest influence of them all in my career, I mean he has taught me everything I need to know about basketball and life in general, so I get the best of both worlds with him from him acting as a big brother and someone I can look up to as a professional athlete and learn the game from. And I would have to say as a whole, my family. They have all had their different impacts.

TM: How has your faith in God helped you on your journey as an athlete?

WB: Oh man, that's like the most important thing on this journey. Growing up my parents embedded that into me and my brother, that nothing in this world is possible without God. Before every game I whisper the same exact pray in the same exact order as just one of my pre game routine.

TM: Aside from athletics, how do you feel about the importance of school?

WB: It's definitely important, I mean basketball is not going to last forever, that’s why I made it a goal to do 4 years and make sure I graduate with my degree, so Winston-Salem State I wouldn't have to make that University Photograph hard choice of whether to try to finish school first or go play professionally first.

TM: Congrats on signing to play in Spain professionally, what has been your biggest transition of being a professional star overseas?

WB: By far the off the court transition. The food, the language, everything is different here, so I had to get adjusted to that before anything TM: The kids in Bertie love you, I hear a couple saying they want to be like the Baze bros and our other professional athletes from Bertie (Kent, Jessica Breland, Travis Bond, Keon Moore) what advice would you give to these young people about school and athletics?

WB: Lol that's wassup, that's what I live for right there, but, just let what we are doing motivate them to do their best in

every aspect of life, even if athletics is not your thing, still strive to be the best you can be in whatever it is that you like to do. As far as being a athlete, what I did was let my athletics kinda propel my academics, because I love playing sports so much that I knew if my academics weren’t right then I couldn't play sports,so I just let that fuel me when times came that I may not have wanted to do my work.

TM: Great advice. What do you want your legacy to be in the next 20-25 years?

WB: Ah man, just be known as someone that impacted kids’ lives in a positive way, hopefully I'll be in the position to give back to the community by then.

TM: Well Bertie is proud of you and we love you and we hope the best. I appreciate you taking the time out to be interviewed. Continue your success on the court bro and I'm sure you'll reach your dream of playing in the NBA soon.

WB: Yeah man. Thanks again for interviewing me!

Reference: Winston-Salem State University. (2013, December 3). Winston-Salem State Ramps Up Defense in 92-58 Blowout of Allen University. Retrieved December 2, 2015 from http://www.wssurams.com/sports/mbaskbl/2013-14/releases/20131204laswcx

Proverbs 18:16 A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

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Health & Fitness

Q & A with Nikki Ferguson.

Ferguson has found success with her recent “Fit Mom Fergie” movement.

Read the article to find out how this mom and personal stylist got healthy and inspired others to do so.

By: Shwanda Williams Photographs by: Nikki Ferguson

Fit for the Better M ost recently we got a chance to catch up with Mrs. Fit Mom Fergie herself. A mom, fitness trailblazer, blogger,

personal stylist, and most of all, a child of God. This California native gave The Journey a quick rundown on her brand and motivation for helping others to get healthy.

SJW: Nikki, thank you so much for agreeing to do the interview! For our readers to get to know you, tell us a little bit about yourself. Who is Nikki Ferguson?

NF: I’m first and foremost a child of God saved by grace. My faith in God is why I am who I am. I accepted Christ into my life at 8 years old and He’s been real to me ever since. I’m also a wife to my amazing husband Daniel and mom of two. My oldest Danielle Nicole is 3 and my youngest Nicholas is 2 years old.

I’m also a daughter, sister, friend, dreamer and goal chaser.

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SJW: Now you have this movement for moms, Fit Mom Fergie! How did your vision and this endeavor come about?

What are some of the goals and objectives of Fit Mom Fergie?

NF: Fit Mom Fergie started as a catchy name for my fitness Instagram account. I found social media to be a good way to find and share “fitspiration” online as I started what I call my “fit mom journey.”

It was also a way to hold myself accountable and find encouragement, motivation and inspiration when I needed it. As I began to fall in love with fitness and health I found I was able to inspire other moms and women as well and it just grew from there.

The overall goal is to share my story to inspire other women, especially moms to live the F.I.T. life of their dreams. Like many women, I started my journey to

lose weight but it quickly became more than that. I soon realized it’s not about a particular number on the scale or having nice abs, it’s about FEELING GOOD from the inside out, having an INNER CONFIDENCE to let your light shine and fulfill your God-given purpose and TRANSFORMING your MIND to transform your entire life!

I’m more confident, more driven and more fulfilled than I’ve ever been and I just want to share this with as many women as I can, especially moms because we are leaders in our homes and our kids are watching and learning from us. I believe healthy, confident moms raise healthy, confident kids!

SJW: What is your goal with Fit Mom Fergie? Talk about your transition into this project and what life was like before beginning the project.

NF: My goal with Fit Mom Fergie is to inspire as many people as possible to live a healthy, confident lifestyle! My struggles with weight began as a child. I was always very self-conscious about my weight and was teased a lot as well. I was an emotional eater and would eat in secret so I wouldn’t feel judged. As I got older and particularly in college I tried diet after diet, pills, shakes, you name it. I would lose weight temporarily but gain it back again.

But something clicked at the end of my second pregnancy. I began researching sustainable weight loss, nutrition and resistance training. I decided I didn’t want to pass my issues to my kids so I’d have to finally do something about it. I realized I would have to commit to a healthy lifestyle change and it didn’t matter how long it would take. I also focused on being strong not skinny and that’s where my passion for weightlifting and training began.

SJW: What's the most difficult thing about maintaining a healthy lifestyle?

NF: Honestly, the most difficult part was starting because I didn’t really know what I was doing. I didn’t know if what I was doing was right or wrong; I just knew I had to go for it and learn along the way, no excuses. Then after that it was finding a form of exercise that I love and could see myself doing consistently, not just for 6, 8 or 12 weeks like I did in the past. I’m a very driven person and when I really make my mind up about something it’s a done deal.I won’t lie I don’t always want to work out or cook healthy meals for our family but I know the key to long-term health and weight loss is consistency and discipline.One of my favorite fitness quotes is “what you do most of the time matters more than what you do every once in a while!” and that just reminds me to be consistent and disciplined, and on the rare occasion I miss a workout or eat something

“unhealthy” I know it won’t set me back because this is my lifestyle and I can get right back on track the next day or next meal!

Presently, the biggest challenge to maintaining a healthy lifestyle is maintaining my hair. As a black woman who sweats a lot, it’s a challenge to find hairstyles that last longer than a few days while maintaining my intensity in the gym. I’m still figuring this one out but I refuse to let it stop me from making my health a priority.

SJW: What is your daily routine or typical regiment during the week?

NF: Five or six days a week I wake up around 5:30 and get ready to go to the gym. I warm up for 5-10 minutes then I hit the weight room. Depending on how much time I have left I finish with 20-30 mins of cardio a few days a week as well.

I’m in the gym for about an hour to an hour in a half max. I can’t spend hours in the gym so I’m very focused while I’m there because I have to get in and out so that I can get home and my husband can get to work. As soon as I walk in the door it's “mommy-mode” and I’m making breakfast, reading books, playing games, taking the kids to mommy & me, the park, library, lunch time, naps etc. Then around 7-8:00pm my husband gives the kids their bath and gets them ready for bed as I start my styling job or work on things for Fit Mom Fergie website for about 2-4 hours. Next, I straighten up a bit then get ready for bed so I can do it all again the next day!

SJW: How has your relationship with God influenced your overall success and vision for Fit Mom Fergie?

NF: God literally influences everything I do and I try to seek Him before making decisions in my life. So, before I launched the site I prayed and prayed about it.

God literally sent people and resources to The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 15

encourage me to move forward with it and wouldn’t let me put it off. It amazes me daily how He continually has His mark on my brand of “fitspiration.” When moms and women approach me I ask the Holy Spirit to guide my comments, support and advice.

SJW: Tell me a little bit about your support system. Where do you get your drive and passion to continue to stay healthy and also help others maintain a healthy lifestyle?

NF: My support system is a blessing for sure. It starts with my husband who supported me from day one. He encourages me, joins me in the gym when he can, helps with the kids and agreed to make healthy living a lifestyle for our whole family!

But it doesn’t stop there! My mom, sister, and mother and father-in law are all important pieces of the puzzle. They encourage me and keep me motivated! They also watch the kids so I can go to the gym or to just give me a break. It takes a village and I’m so thankful for my village!

My passion for fitness is actually surprising to me and people who’ve known me for a long time. I can’t really pinpoint when my passion began because it was a gradual, snowball like effect and it just continues to grow. I love lifting weights and pushing myself beyond what I previously thought I could do. I’m amazed at what the human body and mind is capable of and it makes me love God even more.

SJW: Who's your biggest influence?

NF: Honestly, I find inspiration everywhere! But there are so many women online who have encouraged and motivated me and some will never even know it.

SJW: What's the most exciting thing that has happened to you since starting Fit Mom Fergie?

NF: The most exciting and humbling thing is the moms and women who reach out to me and say that I’ve inspired them to get fit or cook healthy meals for their families.

SJW: How do you balance it all? Worship, parenthood, marriage, aspirations, goals? Many women are so depleted of energy, working out and staying fit seems to be almost an unreasonable goal. What's your advice to them?

NF: Balancing it all is stressful at times, but that’s when I have to lean on my faith, pray and reach out to my support system. I also know that God doesn’t put more on us than we can bare so I ask for His help and prioritize. I try to stay as organized as possible. God, husband and kids, fitness, Fit Mom Fergie, styling, keeping the house clean...it’s a lot, but I use this to enhance my communication, and most importantly my trust in God! I train 16 | The Journey Magazine | July 2015

in the mornings now too so I have as much energy as possible and it eliminates the temptation to skip the gym because I’m too tired later in the day. I also try to have healthy meals and food readily available in my fridge and pantry so I’m not tempted to go to less ideal choices. I tend to meal prep (new school term for leftovers) for a minimum of 3 days so that cooking becomes one less task on my endless list of things to do every day.

SJW: How has staying healthy helped you emotionally? I know from my personal experience, it gave me a self esteem boost. (I battled weight issues when I was younger.)

NF: It’s definitely a confidence booster!

I’m far from perfect and there are women who have better legs, abs and no stretch marks but I feel good and I love myself better now! I still have my days of course where I don’t feel as great but I’m proud of what my body can do and not just how it looks! I went from someone who’s whole day was ruined if I couldn’t fit a certain size or if the scale went up two pounds but now I know I look good and if something doesn’t fit there’s nothing wrong with me it’s just not the right fit and my muscles are too big.

SJW: How can people with a limited income, living in rural areas with little access to quality and diverse meal options get healthy?

NF: This is something I’ve been thinking about a lot. Many people think they have to eat everything organic, grass-fed or raw to get “healthy” and fail in their journey because everything isn’t perfect or they don’t have the resources. But, I’ll let you know right now small changes consistently lead to big changes over time. Start small and build healthy habits and build from there. For example, I initially started by walking around my neighborhood and added 5 minutes every few days. I have a gym membership but I

also have resistance bands that I got for about $10-12. I also have dumbbells ranging from 3-20 pounds that I bought one pair at a time for a few dollars. There are tons of free workout programs online, but it’s about educating yourself, finding what you like to do and doing it consistently.

SJW: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be?

NF: MomStrong! Becoming a mother has made me strong in ways I never knew existed!

It’s the same with nutrition, start with small changes and build as you go. For example, drinking more water, eating green veggies at every meal, cutting back on sodas, switching from white to whole grain breads are all a good start for people just starting their journey. Especially when combined with walking a few days a week. I’d also suggest eating out less and cooking more to make sure you are aware of what’s going into your body. Research how to read food labels to help make better choices when grocery shopping. One major area that I have improved is actually weighing and measuring my food to learn proper portion control.

Most people have no idea how much a serving size is. When it’s measured out, it gives you another tool to aid in your success.

SJW: Where do you envision Fit Mom Fergie taking you 10 years from now?

NF: I’m very new to the “fitness industry” and I’m still learning but I’d love to inspire women all over the world to live the F.I.T life of their dreams!

SJW: Thank you again for doing the interview. I'm sure our readers will greatly appreciate this article!

NF: No, Thank you!

SJW: What's your advice for single moms, doing it all? How can they get healthy?

NF: For single moms, I’d say get creative and invest in a few pieces of equipment (dumbbells, resistance bands, etc) and/or workout videos for your home. Commit to waking up early before your kids and make time for yourself a few days a week because you deserve it. Also, lean on your support system of friends and family. Whenever possible take your kids with you for walks or runs they’ll love it, I know mine do!

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Business & Career The Journey’s Editor-in-Chief got a chance to interview entrepreneur and executive, Erica Perry Green, to talk business, perspective, and longetivity.

By: Shwanda Williams Photographs by Erica P. Green

FYI Erica Perry Green is the founder of SistersLiftingSisters, Inc. and the mother of Camryn Green, featured in the Arts & Music section of this month’s issue.

HELPING OTHERS MOVE FROM TRIALS TO TRIUMPH

So Erica, tell me a little bit about your educational and profes-

sional background.

EPG: Absolutely! Firstly, I want to thank you for allowing me to share my accomplishments and how GOD is using my experiences and testimonies to bless others! Professionally, I am a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Public Health, where I focused in Health Policy and Administration. I always knew that I wanted to be in a healthcare position that allowed me to help others. Upon graduation, I started my 15-year career in CorporateAmerica, as a Pharmaceutical Sales Executive, with Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceuticals.

I later focused on mentoring sales professionals and training at Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals and as a Physician Trainer at Duke University. My career has focused on educating healthcare professionals, so that they can efficiently treat patients and improve outcomes.

Currently, I am working in hospitals, across North Carolina, as a Healthcare Executive for the University of NC at Wilmington.

This year, in an effort to share all that I have learned, I started Trials 2 Triumph Coaching business. T2T allows me to help others rise, out of their trials, and begin to walk in their purpose and destiny.

SJW: You grew up in Bertie County, explain how you learned to transition and operate in two vastly different social arenas? What advice would you give young people attempting to transition into a more professional lifestyle without much exposure to those environments.

EPG: YES, I did grow up in Bertie County and appreciate living in an area rich with southern history. While Bertie is one of North Carolina’s largest counties, it can still lack opportunities for corporate exposure. I have to thank my parents, Euric & Linda Perry, for always keeping us involved! My mother took advantage of every opportunity to increase our exposure to other areas of the state, country and even to provide international travel.

Exposure is EVERYTHING! I would encourage students to take advantage of internships. My senior year, I was blessed to have a corporate internship with a local law firm. Also, take advantage of camps, The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 19

especially those on college campuses. This will help you to narrow down your college list. I remember attending a nursing camp at UNC-CH. While I knew that I did not want to be a nurse, I realized that it was an excellent opportunity to gain exposure the Carolina’s campus. Because of that camp, I applied early to UNC and became a TARHEEL! SJW: How has being a mom changed your work schedule/career goals?

EPG: Being a mother should NEVER limit your career goals or life aspirations. As women, motherhood doesn’t have to be the end of our personal aspirations. As I tell my coaching clients, where there is a will, there is a way.

I was blessed to start my corporate career right out of college, thus by the time I became a mother, I had a solid success portfolio and could create more flexible positions. The only thing that I think I stepped back from, as a new mother, was excessive travel. Once my daughter, Camryn, was born, I decided to focus on sales positions and territories that afforded me manageable travel and allowed me to be home at night. Currently, I work from home, thus having more flexibility to volunteer and attend field trips. I think that if your company values you and what you bring to the table, you are able to create a work/family balance that works.

SJW: What are your top (5) job tips for young women and men?

EPG: 1) Never compromise your integrity.

2) Always start and finish each day with gratefulness. No matter what you face, remember that you are blessed with that position and there are others who are wishing for a job.

3) Work HARD and set the standard. I hate mediocrity and believe in giving every position 100%. Bring your best to the table daily.

4) Volunteer to help others. Training, mentoring and giving of your time will always elevate you. It might not be immediate but it will pay off.

5) SMILE!! No matter what happens, no matter how much your coworkers pressure you, keep smiling. A smile can confuse and frustrate any opposition!

SJW: What's a lesson you learned early on in your career that benefited you?

EPG: One lesson that I learned early was to SPEAK UP! Sometimes we have great ideas but are too intimidated or walk in fear and don’t voice our talents. The quickest way to rise and gain positive attention rom your managers and top executives is to STAND OUT by speaking up! Never fall into the background speak up and show why you are valuable!

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SJW: How has God shaped your career and pursuits?

EPG: GOD is a part of everything in my life! After almost dying twice and getting to spend a lot of time in hospitals, it is my pursuit to walk in my testimony and help other patients. Currently, as a Hospital Healthcare Executive, I help nurses gain their bachelor’s degree and further their education. I feel that I am walking in my God-given purpose. My drive to help others comes from my faith and Christian walk.

SJW: Have you always wanted to do what you're doing now? What were your thoughts as a teenager and undergraduate?

EPG: YES! I have always been very focused on my goals, both professional and financial. When I was a teenager, I knew I wanted a corporate job, wearing suits and getting it done. It wasn’t until I reached UNC and decided to interview the school Deans, that I discovered the School of Public Health. I quickly realized that I wanted to be on the business side of healthcare. I decided to major in Health Policy Administration, with a minor in Business Administration.

Throughout college, I researched jobs and narrowed my focus to my top 3 career paths: Pharma Sales, Consulting or Healthcare Management. During my senior year, I focused my job interviews and applications on opportunities within these career paths.

As a high school and college student, I was very focused. The best advice that I can give any young person is to start creating your plan now! I would challenge all students to start creating their vision board with 6 month, 1-year, 4-year and 10-year goals. Yes, your plans will change and you will refine them, as you grow and learn yourself and your passions, but you must start developing your vision now.

Start things you think you want to do, the amount of money you want to make, the

lifestyle you want to live, and start doing your research now. You can’t create the success, that you want, without a proper plan.

SJW: Who's been a big influence in your life?

EPG: This is an easy answer, my parents, Euric and Linda Perry.

My parents are exceptional individuals. They were both extraordinary educators, and leaders, within the NC education system.

Even after retirement, they have continued to give back, to teachers, by establishing SynergyED Consulting Firm. My parents always pushed me to be the best. Nothing but A’s were accepted. I was encouraged to speak up all the time. My mother always encouraged me to take speaking assignments, join the public speaking and debate teams and challenged me to become a LEADER and not a FOLLOWER. While I did not always appreciate being pushed out there, I now thank them for every time that they did it.

My parents also believed that life was not about the material things but the exposures that you share. I can remember my parents always using their refund checks and bonuses, not to buy more stuff, but to book tickets for family trips. It is those exposures that gave me the commonalities to succeed in Corporate America. When I could chat, with CEOs and Corporate Executives, about trips to the Olympics or Saint Maarten, I immediately gained credibility.

Exposure is everything. Exposure broadens your expectations of what you can be and who you can become. Exposures help you to see that there are no limitations on your life. I thank my parents for every exposure and for their dedication and persistence to push us to excel. They have had the ultimate influence on my life.

SJW: How can young people start businesses, get promotions in the work place and ultimately soar as professionals?

EPG: TAKE ACTION!! My best advice is to take action.

Young people are full of creativity and great ideas. Start asking yourself, “How can this idea make me money?” That is how you craft a business. I would also suggest that everyone needs a coach or mentor. Whether starting a business or walking in your purpose, having a mentor, to guide you, is essential.

As far as having success as a professional, I think that if you follow my TOP 5 Job Tips and work hard, with integrity, you will always rise and prosper. It is easy to make more money and ask for promotions, once you have created value for your employer.

Always ask, “What can I provide my company?” “How can I solve a problem or create more value for my position?” Answering these questions will set you apart and position you for

promotions and advancement.

SJW: Describe what you consider a healthy balance between all tasks.

EPG: Balance is different for everyone.

As a professional coach, I talk a lot about what a healthy balance should look like.

In life, you have to create your priorities and learn to say, “NO”, to those things that are not priority. Personally, GOD, FAMILY, GIVING, WORK and everything else, is what my list entails. While there are always things that will throw off your balance, I try to make sure to carve out time with my family or get them involved in my giving initiatives. There are a lot of creative ways to improve your life and create healthy balance.

SJW: What's one word that describes you?

EPG: GIVER. Among all things, I want to be known as a giver. I am a giver to my family. I am a giver to my coaching clients, to my profession and to my community. If GOD has blessed me, with the knowledge and wisdom, I am open to giving and imparting that on others. My current nonprofit, Sisters Lifting Sisters, is all about giving back to women and the youth. I strive to teach my daughter that it is more valuable to give than to receive.

There is EMPOWERMENT in GIVING! Giving opens your eyes and heart to just how blessed you are. Giving makes you a selfless individual and allows you to truly see what GOD’s full love is.

Giving elevates your life, perspective and purpose. I want my obituary to read, “Erica was the ultimate GIVER.” EPG: I would just like to thank The Journey Magazine for allowing me to share. I want everyone to know that your past doesn’t dictate your future. God has extraordinary things planned for your life.

There is nothing you can’t accomplish; with God and those he sends to help bless you along the way.

The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 21

“You are altogether beautiful my love, there is no flaw in you.�

Song of Solomon 4:7

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Creative Expressions Welcome our new writer, Lyndsae’ Peele.

Peele is a native of Bertie County and a current senior in college attending Howard University. Peele recently interviewed a dynamic young man and showcased young people displaying their talents. Read the article to find out more.

By: Lyndsae’ Peele

Photographs by Lyndsae’ Peele

Better Building: The “A” in STEAM Keeping the Arts alive in a STEM – Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics – society isn’t always easy. Now days, it seems that the essence of artistic expression is being eliminated from modern day academia. Maryland native, Damon Jones has figured out a way to keep the Arts alive by not disregarding the importance of STEM, but by incorporating the two programs to create a more diverse and inclusive curriculum, STEAM America.

Jones is a graduate of the elite Harvard University holding a degree in economics as well as a former graduate student of Trinity University where he obtained a masters degree in Elementary Education. Along with many other talents, Jones has an extensive resume in education. After enjoying tutoring and mentoring in his primary years of grade school, Jones was encouraged to begin a career as a sixth grade teacher in California. Spending a few years in Englewood, Jones decided to return home where he taught and served as a District of Columbia administrator for charter schools.

Trailing a number of years of making a difference in the school system, Jones followed the move of Christ and decided to run STEAM America on a full time basis.

1. Share with your readers a little about STEAM America?

STEAM America now functions as an out of school-time program service provider.

We conduct workshops and classes on the weekends, after school and during the summer. Instead of just setting up shop in one school, we chose an alternative route by partnering with other organizations in order to influence and touch as many young people as we possible. We partner with organizations all over the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia area including but not limited to, the Boys & Girls The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 23

club, the YMCA, and a number of other local organizations. The ultimate primary goal is to create a school. The purpose of the out of school-time programming is to create a curriculum, developing models to see what children responded to the best and to gather data for the school model we are trying to create.

2. How did the dream of STEAM America come into play?

A few things influenced me, when I was in the classroom and working with young people over the course of the years, I noticed a number of people asking me when was I going to start my own school. When I was teaching I even had a nickname, “Principal Jones.” During my time as an administrator, my colleagues saw things in me that I didn’t see in myself. After years of people bringing the idea to my attention and me looking at the state of education around the country right now, I figured they might be right.

My job at the time was cool but I knew that ultimately that was not where I needed to be. Although I love teaching, the joy of teaching was being wavered by certain policies and having to teach to a test. Our system of education was not designed to create leaders but to create followers and our young people are suffering and I just wanted to do something about it. We’re trying to put a band-aid on a system that needs reconstructive surgery. I want STEAM America to be apart of that reconstruction.

3. How important is the “Arts” in STEAM? Very critical, I think removing it is artificial. I don’t know one engineer that’s not creative, and I don’t know one artist who’s not scientific. Whether we realize it or not, there is science, engineering and art in just about anything; that’s just the beauty of God. We see that most places have removed arts from the schools budget and that’s really tragic because our kids now days need that outlet. Kids scarcely get physical education, a lot of them aren’t getting any recess time and they barely get lunch leaving little emphasis on being creative, innovative and having time to think outside the box. The A is more than integrating painting or poetry into the curriculum, to me it’s about being intentional about delivering a holistic learning experience, it represents being intentional about developing the soft skills of creativity and innovative thinking. However, the different disciplines of art are amazing from the painting, poetry, coloring, sculpting, and crafts.

Society is trying to train kids to stick within walls of thinking.

On a test, if their answer isn’t one of those options given, then 24 | The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015

they are wrong, they don’t get any credit for the thinking behind their answer nor the algorithm used, instead they’re labeled behind a test score that follows them throughout school. With the domestic, global, and other issues we have going on, we want to help our kids be creative in thinking of ways to solve these problems.

4. What type of artistic things do you incorporate in your sessions with your students?

Young people now days are so starved for art that it almost doesn’t matter what you put in front of them, they are very receptive to the artistic experience because they don’t get it in school. We’ve done a number of things; one of my favorites was creating circuit bracelets from fabric that we’ve found around the house or bought.

We demonstrated the technical side of circuit breaking as well as being creative enough to make a bracelet out of it. We’ve also had a program called “Young Folk Music,” where we used music as a positive form of creative expression within a mentoring program. In that, we used art to express what was happening in life through a digital platform, recording the music and even having photographers.

In every session, I try to leave two things with them. One token that I try to express to my kids is that they need to get into the habit of creating things rather than buying other people’s products and the second being that STEAM is included in almost every product we consume. Using an iPhone for example, it was created with new age technology to do the scientific things that we need but also, the creators wanted it to look pretty. There are some people who purchase things because of what they can do; along with others who like the way things look.

5. How has God played a part in your life in addition to your journey with STEAM

America?

Well, I didn’t start STEAM America until I heard him say “GO!” This was something that was laid on my heart but I had to make sure that what I was about to endeavor upon was pleasing in his sight. Before taking off with STEAM, I actually had my resignation later in my desk for about three months just sitting there waiting until I heard God say, “GO.” I was praying one day and I asked him what does he want me to do and I can remember him like it was yesterday telling me to proceed.

The next day I went to work, gave them my resignation letter on May 1, 2013 and that same day I got a call from someone who wanted to bring me on as a contractor to revitalize a community center in a neighborhood of Southeast, D.C. I went from one day resigning from my job to another, given keys to a space and being told to do what I need to do to best service the residents of that community. That was the first generation of STEAM America before it had even had a name.

After developing this center into a maker space, I had children coming in who would once want to watch music videos all day asking for tools to start the day’s project. God’s stamp of approval was absolutely critical through this walk of faith. I don’t think I would have been able to make it without my prayer life and my belief structure; I wouldn’t even be who I am right now.

My prayer is that he will use me despite how I feel in any way that he can.

Not only will you find Jones keeping our kids engaged in the arts, you can also find him advocating for the homeless through his initiative, S.O.C.K.S. – So Others Can Keep Striding – S.O.C.K.S. is a grassroots initiative aimed at helping homeless citizens living in the D.C. area by collecting and distributing new socks. Following the direction of God, Jones will continue to pioneer STEAM America & S.O.C.K.S to see through the changes that he is seeking for.

“If a bunch of people that don’t know each other tell you the same thing over the course of time, that is something that you should pay attention to.” – Damon Jones

Matthew 18: 6 “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”

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Ministry Moment

Better Brothers (& Sisters) Call to Action The Body of Believers has a responsibility of not only being concerned but caring for the needs of their fellow man. Genesis 4:9 has Cain asking God is he his brother's keeper. Relationship sins stem back from the beginning of time. 21st Century church issues from relationship's sins against one another. Matthew 22 talks about 2nd greatest commandment is love thy neighbor as thy love thy self. Think about how much we love our selves. Most people in their right mind will not bring harm or cheat themselves out of the best resources in life. Let’s think about times we have surpressed our fellow brothers sisters in order to be seen, heard, or spotlighted. The Call to Action is you have a responsibility to the keeping of you brothers and sisters in Christ. God is concerned about the relationships that we have with each other. When you look at your fellow brothers and sisters you should see Christ. It is not okay not to like each other.

Think about how our churches have not moved forward because of the internal conflict amongst the body of believers. We have a charge to spread the Good News to everyone across the world. We have to win souls and stand apart from sin. Young Adults, I say we stand up and be the examples Christ has called us to be. Let us live set apart in our discipline so that sinners and the world can see Christ. I charge each of you take action today and mend relationships with others. Work in the gift and anointing God has blessed you with and win humanity's souls through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Thought: What if every believer operated in God's Will and the Gift they were given?

Minister Bradley is a member of Cedar Landing Missionary Baptist Church, where Pastor Shelton Barnes presides as pastor. Bradley is also a science teacher at Bertie Middle School in Windsor, NC. She is a graduate of Elizabeth City State University.

By: Minister Ashley Bradley The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 27

Beauty & Fashion B. Cherry, native of Bertie County and graduate of North Carolina Central University.

By: Brittney Cherry

Photographs by: Joan McCullough

SYNOPSIS Brittney sat down with a

local Philly male stylist, Phil and a local YouTube Beauty Blogger, Katurrah (_cuteness4less), to get the inside scoop on styles to look out for this fall and winter.

Phil and Katurrah expressed how men and women can better their styles and make fashion and beauty statements without breaking their pockets!

Beautiful Living Video by: Shane Cantie

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VIDEO

Activism & Politics

By: Min. Warche’ Downing Photographs by: N’Yaisha Aziz

Warché K. Downing is a higher education professional, minister, policy analyst/strategist, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.

Minister Warché also serves as the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ, Inc. State Youth President.

What to do in an Increasingly Anti-Christian, Political Culture?

by: Kayle Williams when there is turmoil in the land, all of a More than ever before our society is seemingly influencedDrawing by

an increasing anti-Christian and morally declining political culture, whose aim is targeted towards legislating evil and removing God from everything. The bible states, “Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees…”

(Isaiah 10: 1-2NIV). Our world has become the way it is primarily because there are not enough people standing before the throne of God to ask that it be otherwise. Scripture indicates, “The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12 KJV). The kingdom of God is about Jesus establishing His rule and Lordship over all creation. As Christians, one of our chief goals for society should be to see Christ in our Culture and to see the world in which we live from a biblical perspective, even if there is opposition. The scripture I previously mentioned (Matthew 11:12 KJV) indicates the kingdom of heaven will face significant, even violent opposition from the outside (from this current world), but nothing will stop its growth. In today’s society, we vividly see how the world is becoming less accepting and less tolerant of Christians, but more accepting of evil practices while attempting to justify evil by removing all traces of God. In fact, our government and many of its leaders want to mute the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but

sudden, there’s a decree for a “Day of Prayer” or the masses chant “God Bless America.” Indeed, God wants to bless America, but will America bless God?

According to Romans 13:1-2 KJV/MSG, it is our responsibility to our government to obey the laws and be good citizens. The scripture further indicates in the message Bible “All governments are under God.” One of satan’s widely used methods of deception is for society to put all its hope and trust in politicians and government officials. That will never solve the problems we face in our country. Perhaps, that is one of the reasons why there have been more mass shootings in 2015 than days in the year! We must welcome God back in and uphold moral standards or the tragic events that have happened, could become recurring events indefinitely.

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I am a firm believer that if you do the same, you will always get the same. It was Albert Einstein who stated, “the significant problems we have cannot be solved at the same level of thinking with which we created them.” We cannot expect to have the necessary paradigm shift in our society if every official we elect is always utilizing the same system of practices and beliefs that have failed and beliefs that does not embrace the God of the Bible. I believe it is only when we began reasoning at a new level and actually authentically embrace the God of the Bible that our society and laws will have the necessary congruence the holy bible speaks about. The necessary change and true transformation of a nation or economy cannot be found or trusted solely in man; we must look to a higher source than ourselves, which is inevitably the only true God! After all, God’s thoughts for us supersede what we could ever attempt to do or accomplish on our own. Though it would be great, the truth of the matter is the politicians’ job is not to necessarily advance or guard Biblical truth in Christian values, but it is our job to pray for those in authority, that we may live peaceful lives in all godliness and holiness (1 Timothy 2:2 emphasis).

Great things happen when we live in a Godly society governed by Godly and ethical leaders. We are literally in the midst of a political season of presidential debates with many contenders promising better, effective government and much rhetoric in hopes of convincing the masses to vote in favor of one candidate over the other. Now, some people cannot seem to fathom a society where there is little to no corruption of its leaders or its government, but it is possible to pray for such.

In Dr. Cindy Trimm’s book, ‘Til Heaven Invades Earth”, she writes: “In the United States we have fallen into the trap of thinking that our power to vote is greater than our power in prayer. Too many save their season of prayer for election season, praying that we will get the right people or party into office; then we judge the success or failure of our prayers based on whether our candidates won or By: Shwanda Williams not…while praying at election times is a good thing, we are making a big mistake that is the only time we are Photography: Lo Mills, ifElements praying for our government. The truth is, we should of Class Photography actually be praying more between elections than we pray for them…Whether we elect “good” people or not, whether we elect the “right” people or not, they are going to face corrupting influences…”

The issues our society and world face today are too numerous for me to even attempt to write about at this present time; however 2 Chronicles 7:14 plainly tells us “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven, 30 | The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015

and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Our land is in need of serious healing in all aspects. There’s too much violence, mass shootings and killings, evil agendas, and much more. Yes, society as a whole is more technologically advanced than ever before but seemingly less spiritual. We must not buy into the segment of our society that believes humans are intellectual beings and should not be spiritual. Scripture indicates, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). We must embrace God and invoke our God-given authority within the earth.

I strongly encourage believers everywhere to pray for our government leaders (local, state, and national) and pray for pastors and ministries to be bold enough to preach and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, EFFECTIVELY to the world so the gospel can reach every nation with its life-giving, transformational, saving power.

I emphasize effectiveness in ministry because, indeed, there are many ministries that desire to preach and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ but do not have the necessary training nor the tools to effectively reach the ‘unchurched’ and the loss.

We must pray and strategically employ Jesus Christ as the ruler of all nations so we may govern and live under His divine will because those who know their God will stand firm and prevail (Daniel 11:32 CJB)!

Closing Scripture: Psalm 99: 1-5 The Lord reigneth; let the people tremble: He sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved.

The Lord is great in Zion; and he is high above all the people. Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy.

The king's strength also loveth judgment; thou dost establish equity, thou executest judgment and righteousness in Jacob.

Exalt ye the Lord our God, and worship at His footstool; for He is holy.

The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015 | 31

Community Spotlight

Interview with: Kayle Williams Drawing by: Kayle Williams So Kayle, tell me a little bit about yourself.

KJW: I'm an artist. I'm a very hands on person.

How did you get into art? When did you discover that it was a gift of yours?

KJW: I've always loved art. I've been drawing since elementary school. I discovered it was a gift of mine when I was a junior in high school and that's when I started taking it more seriously.

What inspires you to draw or sketch?

KJW: Anything can inspire me. It can be as simple as a basic shape or as complex as a car engine or an idea can spawn directly from my imagination.

You also do photography and barber. Which is your favorite (art or photography or barbering) and why?

KJW: I love all three equally and I'm very determined to become better at all of them.

How are they related?

KJW: They all involve creativity, imagination, and a very steady hand.

How can you inspire people with and through your gift?

KJW: I can inspire people by the subjects of my drawings. For example, I can draw a realistic set of hands with Genesis 1:27 on it.

If you could describe your artistic gift with one word, what would that word be?

KJW: If I could describe my artistic gift with one word it would be perseverant. I am always determined to become better and learn new techniques.

How are you different from peers your age?

KJW: I don't let anyone influence me, I'd rather do my own thing instead of trying to be like everyone else.

Closing Scripture: Joshua 1: 8 “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.�

What is the mind of an artist?

KJW: The mind of an artist is art itself.

An artist's mind is very detailed and complex place.

What would you say to people your age attempting to discover their gifts and talents?

KJW: Don't be afraid to take chances, discovering your talents requires prayer and determination.

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32 | The Journey Magazine | Dec 2015

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