Rebirth inaugural edition by Totalwoman

INSIDE THIS ISSUE A Moment in Worship

Darlene’s Story-I’m Every Woman

Greetings from the Founder

10 Tips to Financial Success

Our Not to You

Marriage & Family

Nana’s Girls Foundation Mission

Domestic Violence Revealed

Nana’s Girls Foundation Board of Directors

Kisha’s Story-The New Look of

Maintaining Freedom in Christ

Lupus & ADHD

Mom’s House

15 Minute Devotional

NGF Salutes Maya Angelou

7 African-American Women that

Changed History

TW 10 Minute Makeover

When is it My Time?

Mamma D’s Story-Making of a Miracle

Hope’s Story -How the Hand of God

Shielded me from Death Am Interview w/Dr. Evelyn Murray Drayton

Putting Stress, I Its Place

Christal’s Story – How I Survived Divorce

Rebirth Tip Hotline

From the Heart- The Grief Network

The Story of Rebirth

Schrendria’s Story-The Corporate Business

Building a Healthy Family

Woman The Story of the Butterfly

A MOMENT IN WORSHIP With REBIRTH Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your way, my ways saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than our ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bringeth forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater. So, shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but is shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Isaiah 55:3, 6, 8-11

GREETINGS From the Desk of the Founder

hurting, dying women, that have suffered pains unimaginable, experienced brokenness, and/or are in search of a Fresh Start. As vast and dynamic of a country as is the United States of America, yet underneath the strength of the 21st century Super Power, lies a population of women who go unnoticed, unheard, unseen, devalued, ridiculed and misunderstood, even though they walk among us, work among us and live among us. You can have two women living side by side for years in one neighborhood, never knowing that they live either very similar lives or very different lives.

Grace and Peace to you all in the name of the Lord Jesus. It is a pleasure to greet and introduce to you Rebirth of the Total Woman Magazine a publication designed for women, filled with information, and inspiration, to aid them in their journey towards wholeness. We have articles, and columns that speak to those areas of hurt, bitterness and resentment, anger and frustration, weaknesses and feelings of inadequacies while bringing moments of peace, a moment to breathe, times of laughter, times of refreshing, renewing and rebuilding of the spirit and the soul. What is Rebirth? We talk more about this in the selftitled article rebirth, but simply put, the process of being born again; not just a spiritual rebirth, but emotional, financial, social, and psychological. Taking into consideration my own personal story of transformation, and the many women I have encountered since the publication of the original Kingdom’s Journal, it was only logical to make the change as we endeavor to help the American women of all nationalities, cultures, religious backgrounds, marital status, parent or not, and without regard to social class and status. In every neighborhood, subdivision, school house, church house, etc. there are

Our goal here at Rebirth is to reeducate, restore, reintroduce these women to society as the phenomenal women they are, the gifted and talented creation of God as He intended. We salute the women that have chosen to make themselves vulnerable through the writings you will read in Rebirth. The articles and stories within will make you laugh, cry, rejoice, and prick your heart unto salvation. One writer tells of her journey from being diagnosed with two different types of cancer at the same time and her miraculous recovery in A Miracle in the Making; an author’s telling of the making of her newest book titled Anything’s Possible: a 47-Day Prophecy; and our feature story is of a woman diagnosed with lupus and ADHD while having a son with ADHD, her struggle daily, and how she overcame the disease to becoming a certified Life Coach in The New Face of ADHD & Lupus; Then, Pastor Darlene Richardson, takes us into the life of being the first lady and co-pastor with her husband; while we take a deeper look at marriage and divorce in Marriage and Family and How Survived Divorce. There is a poetry corner with my favorite pick of the season as we salute Dr. Maya Angelou. There are a host of other goodies to sink your teeth into as we celebrate women, and reach out to help those in need of a Savior. Join us at the altar for the Rebirth of the Total Woman. This season’s theme is Beauty for Ashes.

Hello Beautiful! OUR NOTE TO YOUâ&#x20AC;Ś It is our sincere prayer that this publication will be as inspirational and motivational as it is informative. WE pray that you will turn to Rebirth as an investment in your complete and total transformation

We will strive to provide you with responsible and timely information and articles that will both glorify God and edify women through their transformational process.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you, our faithful reads and subscribers for your continued support and prayers. WE pray that the articles and insights in this publication are a blessing to you and look forward to seeing you in the next edition.

NANAS GIRLS FOUNDATION, INC. The nonprofit, Nana's Girl Foundation (NGF), was formed for the primary purpose of aiding and assisting women in the reinvention of themselves, spiritual development, reeducation, through life coaching and counseling, NGF will offer its clients an opportunity to volunteer with the foundation through our various programs and community events. These ladies will receive life skills training, assistance with continuing education, job readiness and search. NGF, Inc. cater to women of all ages. They are required to complete a 6-12 month training program, using the curriculum designed by Dr. Vanessa Williams-Cook, which though designed for all women; caters to the need of each individual person. Upon completion of their individualized training program, each participant will receive a certificate of completion, and assistance with job placement; to include the possibility of working with the foundation in some capacity. In 2020 NGF, Inc., will open, The Annie Ruth DeLaney Home for Young Women, which will serve women ages 13-40, and provide them with a place of safety, a haven, and home for them if needed. Although not required to live in the home, client will be expected to complete their training program through the home-based program, structure, discipline, and special offerings from the foundation. And 2021 we will open the Genesis Healing for both men and women.

NANAS GIRLS FOUNDATION, INC. Founder & Executive Director: Dr. Vanessa Williams-Cook Board of Directors & Constituents: President: Kisha J. McRae Vice President: LaKesha Gaines Director of Organizational Structure: Jean Toney Educational Coordinator: Tanya Bankston Community Events/Relations: LeKida P. Ephriam

Global Market Liaison: Anita Duah Prempeh Hospitality Coordinator: Sadiemae Deas

when he was told that he could

to God’s Word. Jesus made this as

eat from any tree of the garden –

plain as could be. “If you continue

except

(Gen.2:16).

in my word, you are truly my

Prohibition was placed on the

disciples, and you will know the

one, so Adam could show forth

truth, and the truth will make you

his trust in God. It was also seen

free” (Jn.8:31, 32).

when Israel was in bondage for

“Everyone who commits sin is a

400 years, it was God who

slave to sin. . .. So, if the Son

brought

makes you free, you will be free

one

deliverance

mighty hand.

Women of God, A message from Lady Vengie McMillan

His

All that was

And again,

indeed” (Jn.8:34, 36).

required of His people to remain

free was trust Him, and show it by

maintaining freedom is that we

obeying

must define freedom accurately.

His

Unfortunately,

commands. the

people

major

Freedom,

challenge

despite

popular

repeatedly showed that they

misconceptions, is not having

preferred their own ways. And as

the autonomy to do whatever

a result, they found themselves

you please. This only brings one

back in bondage as the Lord

back into bondage.

This is the season to “Receive

would sell them to the power of

freedom is having the power to

and Maintain God ’s Freedom”!

their enemies (Jdg.2:14).

do what we ought, to the glory of

Since the Beginning, God has

We are all born into bondage to

God. As the Apostle Paul wrote,

given us the Right, the Power, and

sin and self because of our

“You were called to freedom,

the Freedom to choose, between

relationship to Adam. But God, in

brethren, only do not use your

light and darkness, good or evil,

His grace, brings deliverance

freedom as an opportunity for

love or hate. With the Free Will to

through Jesus Christ. Jesus began

the flesh, but through love serve

choose for

His ministry saying that God sent

one

ourselves our own way, to find

Him “to proclaim release to the

Therefore, we can only possess

our own destiny, and not have

captives” (Lk.4:18). As one comes

and enjoy God’s freedom to the

others, or the collective, or

to Jesus, He is set free from the

extent we walk with the One

society,

bondage of sin and guilt of this

who gives it.

choose for us. This can be seen

world. But for this freedom to be

An Ambassador for Christ,

in Genesis when God gave the

maintained or preserved, we

first man, Adam, vast freedom

must take care to live according

the

government,

another”

However,

(Gal.5:13).

An Interview with Church Mothers Rosa Nell & Sadiemae Williams-Deas Church mothers are the best source or information as it pertains to raising children, marriage, and incorporating a life of prayer, praise and worship into our daily activities. Time after time it is imperative that we turn to these women for their wisdom and understanding as young women of the gospel of Christ. Apostle Paul put it this way in chapter 2 of his letter to the young pastor Titus: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Likewise, the older women are to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4 Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.â&#x20AC;? This is what these church mothers had to say: Mother Nell: Each morning I

more. This time is spent praying

daily situations, activities, and

make time to let God know that

and reading the Word of God.

people (compared to the way I

I appreciate His presence in my

revealed revealed many things

used to) has changed drastically.

life, for His love, kindness,

that have caused me to change

Thanks, Holy Spirit!!!

mercy, grace, protection, and

inwardly. The way I respond to

What would you list as two of the

space and place in my heart.

stayed focused on the things of

most important aspects of being a

God’s Word has

God.

wife and mother?

What is one piece of advice you

RB: How have you incorporated

Moher Deas: Understanding and

would give to any young woman

daily devotions and payer into

listening are two of the most

as it relates to life, spirituality,

your life and how would you say, “praise

and

worship”

have

changed your life?

read my devotional. Right now, have

two

and mother. Healthy and total communication comes when the

Moher Deas: Each morning I

important aspects of being a wife

eyes of our understanding has been opened by the Spirit of God,

emotional stability, and selfesteem? Mother Deas: Seek first the Kingdom of God and its righteous ness and all other things will be added unto it. Keep God firs I all

companion

and when we listen to the voice

devotionals by Joyce Myer;

of God as He transforms our

thanks. Find yourself a good home

Starting Your Day Right and

hearts.

church where not only you can go

Ending Your Day Right. These

Moher

Wife….

but also where your family can go

two

communication and respect,

and grow. Invest in self-help books

and

love,

by good Christian authors. Don’t

Scriptures in a new and fresh

communication, discipline, and

be afraid to seek godly counsel on

way, helping me to focus on the

respect, to always hear what the

issue for prayer that day.

child is saying (sorry they all

Through praise and worship I

come together).

have learned to completely

team that will pray with you and

books

helped

together to

open

have the

Nell:

mother….

You gain a

that you do, and always give Him

issues that are important to your well-being, and that of your family. Most of all, never stop praying. Mother Nell: Thrive on love… learn to love yourself, not selfishly,

depend on God and in that, I

pray you through.

place my children, my husband.

importantly, you learn how to

I have transformed with greater

human unless you are looking to

completely lean and depend on

help them up. Accept God as Lord

understanding and stronger

God, as well as your relationship

of your life, praying continually

beliefs.

Even if I miss my

with Him as Father becomes

that God will help you to grow

morning devotion, I make sue

even stronger. Yes, I grew up

spiritually, mentally, and morally,

to somehow during the day

church. My family always went

so you will be able to stand in any

take the time to give to God is

to church together and we

situation.

But most

never looking down one another

15-MINUTE DEVOTIONAL

15-MINUTE DEVOTONAL Romans 8:1; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Genesis 3:22 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God; And the LORD God said, "The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever." Our Perception of Righteousness We think of righteousness as absolute perfection. To be righteous is to be in right standing, walking uprightly before the Lord. To do that, we must first acknowledge the need for change in our everyday lives. To be righteous does not mean that no sin, or that no infraction has ever taken place. It also, however, is not a license to condemn a brother in a fault. Being righteous means that sin has met its expected end. It has ceased to exist in our lives. 2 Corinthians 5:21 makes it clear that this was not, and is not something that can be accomplished on our own. “For our sake He made Him to be sin, who knew no sin, so that in Him, we might become the righteousness of God.” This simply means to take on the likeness and the attributes of our Father. Make today a day of reflection and hold fast to the newness of life granted to you through salvation in Christ. Remember Romans 8:1 “Therefore, [there is] now no condemnation (no adjudging guilty of wrong) for those who are in Christ Jesus, who live [and] walk not after the dictates of the flesh, but after the dictates of the Spirit. [John 3:18] Repent, get up, and get busy about our Father’s business. You have a fresh start, a new beginning-purpose that today I am the righteousness of God. Father, help me today to become more like You. Help me to take on Your likeness and You attributes that I may serve You in the newness of life granted to me through salvation in Your son, Jesus. Amen.

12 REBIRTH OF THE TOTAL WOMAN MAGAZINE

PHENOMENAL WOMAN Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size But when I start to tell them, they think I'm telling lies. I say, It's in the reach of my arms The span of my hips, The stride of my step, The curl of my lips. I'm a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That's me. I walk into a room Just as cool as you please, And to a man, the fellows stand or Fall down on their knees. Then they swarm around me, A hive of honey bees. I say, It's the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth, The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet. I'm a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That's me. Men themselves have wondered What they see in me. They try so much But they can't touch My inner mystery. When I try to show them They say they still can't see. I say, It's in the arch of my back, The sun of my smile, The ride of my breasts, The grace of my style. I'm a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That's me. Now you understand Just why my head's not bowed. I don't shout or jump about Or have to talk real loud. When you see me passing It ought to make you proud. I say, It's in the click of my heels, The bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, The need of my care, 'Cause I'm a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That's me. Maya Angelo

Born on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, writer and civil rights activist Maya Angelou is known for her 1969 memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which made literary history as the first nonfiction best-seller by an African-American woman. In 1971, Angelou published the Pulitzer Prize-nominated poetry collection Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water 'Fore I Die. She later wrote the poem "On the Pulse of Morning"—one of her most famous works—which she recited at President Bill Clinton's inauguration in 1993. Angelou received several honors throughout her career, including two NAACP Image Awards in the outstanding literary work (nonfiction) category, in 2005 and 2009. She died on May 28, 2014. Early Years—Multi-talented barely seems to cover the depth and breadth of Maya Angelou's accomplishments. She was an author, actress, screenwriter, dancer and poet. Born

Marguerite Annie Johnson, Angelou had a difficult childhood. Her parents split up when she was very young, and she and her older brother, Bailey, were sent to live with their father's mother, Anne Henderson, in Stamps, Arkansas. As an African American, Angelou experienced firsthand racial prejudices and discrimination in Arkansas. She also suffered at the hands of a family associate around the age of 7: During a visit with her mother, Angelou was raped by her mother's boyfriend. Then, as vengeance for the sexual assault, Angelou's uncles killed the boyfriend. So traumatized by the experience, Angelou stopped talking. She returned to Arkansas and spent years as a virtual mute. During World War II, Angelou moved to San Francisco, California, where she won a scholarship to study dance and acting at the California Labor School. Also during this time, Angelou became the first black female cable car conductor—a job she held only briefly, in San Francisco.

In 1944, a 16-year-old Angelou gave birth to a son, Guy (a shortlived high school relationship had led to the pregnancy), thereafter working many jobs to support herself and her child. In 1952, the future literary icon wed Anastasios Angelopoulos, a Greek sailor from whom she took her professional name—a

blend of her childhood nickname, "Maya," and a shortened version of his surname.

Career Beginnings—In the mid1950s, Angelou's career as a performer began to take off. She landed a role in a touring production of Porgy and Bess, later appearing in the offBroadway production Calypso Heat Wave (1957) and releasing her first album, Miss Calypso (1957). A member of the Harlem Writers Guild and a civil rights activist, Angelou organized and starred in the musical revue Cabaret for Freedom as a benefit for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, also serving as the SCLC's northern coordinator. In 1961, Angelou appeared in an off-Broadway production of Jean Genet's The Blacks with James Earl Jones, Lou Gossett, Jr. and Cicely Tyson. While the play earned strong reviews, Angelou moved on to other pursuits, spending much of the 1960s abroad; she first lived in

Egypt and then in Ghana, working as an editor and a freelance writer. Angelou also held a position at the University of Ghana for a time. After returning to the United States, Angelou was urged by friend and fellow writer James Baldwin to write about her life experiences. Her efforts resulted in the enormously successful 1969 memoir about her childhood and young adult years, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which made literary history as the first nonfiction best-seller by an AfricanAmerican woman. The poignant work also made Angelou an international star. Since publishing Caged Bird, Angelou continued to break new ground—not just artistically, but educationally and socially. She wrote the drama Georgia, Georgia in 1972—becoming the first African-American woman to have her screenplay produced—and went on to earn a Tony Award nomination for her role in the play Look Away (1973) and an Emmy Award nomination for her work on the television miniseries Roots (1977), among other honors.

Later Successes—Angelou wrote several autobiographies throughout her career, including All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes (1986) and A Song Flung Up to Heaven

(2002), but 1969's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings continues to be regarded as her most popular autobiographical work. She also published several collections of poetry, including Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water 'Fore I Die (1971), which was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. One of Angelou's most famous works is the poem "On the Pulse of Morning," which she wrote especially for and recited at President Bill Clinton's inaugural ceremony in January 1993—marking the first inaugural recitation since 1961, when Robert Frost delivered his poem "The Gift Outright" at President John F. Kennedy's inauguration. Angelou went on to win a Grammy Award (best spoken word album) for the audio version of the poem. In 1995, Angelou was lauded for remaining on The New York Times' paperback nonfiction best-seller list for two years— the longest-running record in the chart's history. Seeking new creative challenges, Angelou made her directorial debut in 1998 with Down in the Delta, starring Alfre Woodard. She also wrote many inspirational works, from the essay collection Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now (1994) to her advice for young women in Letter to My Daughter (2008). Interested in health, Angelou

has even published cookbooks, including Hallelujah! The Welcome Table: A Lifetime of Memories with Recipes (2005) and Great Food, All Day Long (2010). Angelou's career has seen numerous accolades, including the Chicago International Film Festival's 1998 Audience Choice Award and a nod from the Acapulco Black Film Festival in 1999 for Down in the Delta; and two NAACP Image Awards in the outstanding literary work (nonfiction) category, for her 2005 cookbook and 2008's Letter to My Daughter. Personal Life—Martin Luther King Jr., a close friend of Angelou's, was assassinated on her birthday (April 4) in 1968. Angelou stopped celebrating her birthday for years afterward, and sent flowers to King's widow, Coretta Scott

King, for more than 30 years, until Coretta's death in 2006. Angelou was good friends with

TV personality Oprah Winfrey, who organized several birthday celebrations for the awardwinning author, including a week-long cruise for her 70th birthday in 1998. After experiencing health issues for many years, Maya Angelou died on May 28, 2014, at her home in Winston-Salem, North

Carolina. The news of her passing spread quickly with many people taking to social media to mourn and remember Angelou. Singer Mary J. Blige and politician Cory Booker were among those who tweeted their favorite quotes by her in tribute. President Barack Obama also issued a statement

about Angelou, calling her "a brilliant writer, a fierce friend, and a truly phenomenal woman." Angelou "had the ability to remind us that we are all God's children; that we all have something to offer," he wrote.

7 ARICAN AMERICAN WOMEN THAT CHANGED THE FACE OF HISTORY

This Photo by Unknown

Josephine Baker- after AfricanAmerican talented performer, Josephine Baker expatriated to France, she famously smuggled military intelligence to French allies during World War II. She did this by pinning secrets inside her dress, as well as hiding them in her sheet music. Pearl Bailey- After a long career as an actress and singer, Peal Bailey earned a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from Georgetown University in 1985. Ella Fitzgerald, known or having a remarkable three-octave range got her start at the Apollo Theater.

Politician, educator, and Brooklyn native Shirley Chisolm, survived three assassination attempts during her campaign for the 972 Democratic nomination to the U.S. presidency. Nancy Green, who was formerly enslaved, was employed in the 1890s to promote the Aunt Jemima brand by demonstrating the pancake mix at expositions and fairs. She was a popular attraction because of her friendly personality, storytelling skills and warmth. Green signed a lifetime contract with pancake company, and her image was used for packaging and ads.

Abolitionist Harriet Ann Jacobs published Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl I 181 under the pseudonym Linda Brent. The book chronicles the hardships and sexual abuse she experienced as a woman growing up in slavery. Jacobs fled slavery in 1835 by hiding in crawlspace in her grandmother’s attic for seven years before traveling to Philadelphia by boat, and eventually to New York. Female science fiction author Octavia Butler was dyslexic. Despite her disorder, she went on to win Hugo and Nebula awards for her writing, as well as a “genius” grant for the MacArthur Foundation.

Putting Stress in Its Place Make no mistake about it.

or no stress” and 10 is “a great

scale, compared to 16 percent

Stress is real. Research shows

deal of stress”). Both genders

of men. What’s more, women

that 110,000,000 (110 million)

agree, however, that 3.6 is a

are more likely than men to say

people die annually due to

healthy level of stress, pushing

their stress is on the rise. More

stress.

women

points

women say their stress levels

around the world every 2

beyond the level of stress they

have increased in the past five

seconds.

believe to be healthy. More

years (43 percent vs. 33 percent

women

report

experiencing

of men) and in the past year

Association in 2012 Women

extreme

stress

than

men.

alone (38 percent vs. 32 percent

continue to report higher stress

Twenty-three

of men. How you handle stress

levels than men (5.3 vs. 4.6 on a

women report their stress level

makes a big difference in how

10-point scale where 1 is “little

at an 8, 9 or 10 on a 10-point

you feel. It might even help your

That is 7 people all

American

According to the Psychological

nearly

two

percent

blood pressure, blood sugar

these calming strategies to stop

level, and the rest of you. Use

stress ASAP.

Get Outside

while others believe the smell and

listened to a recording of rippling

Spending time outdoors, even

taste help you relax around your

water. (Wondering what that

close to home, is linked to better

eyes as well as your mouth –

choral piece was, music fans? Try

well-being. You're in a natural

reduces

stress

Miserere by Gregorio Allegri.),

setting, and you're usually doing

responses, even if you don’t feel

Antonio Vivaldi’s Seasons, or try

something active, like walking or

happy.

listening to instrumental hymns

your

body’s

from Maranatha.

hiking. Even a few minutes can make a difference in how you

Sniff Some Lavender—

feel.

Certain scents like lavender may

Smile Like You Mean It

soothe. In one study, nurses who

Don’t roll your eyes the next time someone advises you to “grin and bear it.”

In times of tension,

keeping a smile on your face – especially a genuine smile that’s formed by the muscles will help to relieve pressure and even ease headaches.

Smiling also helps

lower heart rates faster once your

pinned small vials of lavender oil to their clothes felt their stress ease, while nurses who didn’t felt more stressed. Lavender may intensify the effect of some painkillers

and

anti-anxiety

medications, so if you’re taking either, check with your doctor before use.

Feeling less stressed is as close as your next breath. Focusing on your breath curbs your body’s “fight or flight” reaction to pressure or fear, and it pulls your attention away from negative thoughts. Sit comfortably in a quiet place. Breathe in slowly through your nose, letting your chest and lower belly rise and your abdomen expand. Breathe

stressful situation ends. Tune In—

out just as slowly, repeating a

Heading into a stressful situation? Break Out the Bubble Gum

Reboot Your Breath—

Music can help you calm down. In

word or phrase that helps you relax. To reap the most benefit,

Next time you’re at the end of

one study, people had lower

your rope, unwrap a stick of gum.

levels of the stress hormone

According to studies, chewing

cortisol when they listened to a

gum lowers anxiety and eases

recording of Latin choral music

stress. Some researchers think

before doing something stressful

We all have a constant stream of

the rhythmic act of chewing may

(like doing math out loud or giving

thoughts running through our

improve blood flow to your brain,

heads, and sometimes what we

speech) than

when

they

repeat for at least 10 minutes.

Be Kind to Yourself-

tell ourselves isn’t so nice.

one.

Have a friend that is

writer of the New Testament-

Staying

using

dealing with or has dealt with

Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18

compassionate self-talk will help

the same worries as you? Even

“Pray without ceasing.

you calm down and get a better

more reason to open up. You’ll

thanks in every circumstance,

grip on the situation. Talk to

both feel less alone.

for this is God’s will for you in

positive

and

yourself in the same gentle,

Get Moving-

encouraging way you’d help a fiend in need. “Everything will be OK,” for instance, or “I’ll

Give

Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:10-12 Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord

When you work up a sweat, you improve your mood, clear your

that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were

head, and take a break from

indeed concerned, but you had

whatever is stressing you out.

no opportunity to show it. I am

Whether you like a long walk or

not saying this out of need, for I

Writing will help you to resolve

an intense workout at the gym,

have learned to be content

your issues.

you’ll feel uplifted afterward.

regardless of my circumstances.

Prayer & Meditation-

I know bow to live humbly, and I

figure out to handle this.” Write Your Stress Away

Putting your

thoughts on paper gives you an avenue of release, and enables you to picture the resolution as

The number one way to unplug

the

and relieve stress of any kind, is

It doesn’t matter

to spend quiet time praying and

whether you prefer pen and

meditation upon the Word of

notebook, a phone app, or a file

God. Focus on certain Scriptures

on your laptop. The important

that ae sure to relieve stress

thing is that you’re honest about

such as: Isaiah 26:3; John 14:7;

your feelings.

16:33; Proverbs 3:5-6; 16:7; and

Tell a Friend-

Philippians 4:6-7 are just to start

you

think

resolution.

through

with. When

you’re

feeling

overwhelmed, seek out the

Always remember these two

company of a friend or loved

things from the most prolific

know how to abound.

I am

accustomed to any and every situation-to being filled ad being hungry, to having plenty and having

need…

And

finally,

wisdom from the fist PopeApostle Peter himself, 1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for He careth for you.

Do not forget my ways or turn Away from them. When you choose to respond to life’s difficulties with compassion and love instead of fear and doubt, you create a “heaven on earth”—you bring the aspects of a more balanced and harmonious level of reality into the physical being. Gary Zukar from “Thoughts from the Seat for the Soul” Meditations for the Soul in Process

THE STORY OF REBIRTH DR. VANESSA WILLIAMS-COOK evolving, ever changing, ever

sin

growing, ever becoming

abundantly in Christ. Jesus

constant state of continuity.

explained

conversation with Nicodemus

the

Explained,

book

Rebirthed

author

one

and

night

death

this

life

John

3:4-7

Rebirth, the very word itself

Gunaratna gives examples of

“Nicodemus saith unto him,

indicates the beginning of

this law: “A seed is every

how can a man be born when

something

When

moment in the process of

he is old? Can he enter the

hearing the word, what comes

becoming a plant and a plant is

second time into his mother's

to mind is renewal, refreshing,

every moment in the process

womb, and be born? Jesus

revival, and restoration, of

of becoming a tree. A bud is

answered, Verily, verily, I say

something old into something

every moment in the process

unto thee, except a man be

new.

The free dictionary

of becoming a flower while an

born of water and of the Spirit,

defines rebirth as a second or

infant is every moment in the

he cannot enter into the

new birth; reincarnation. 2. A

process of becoming a youth

kingdom of God. That which is

renaissance; a revival, often

and then an old man. At no

born of the flesh is flesh; and

referring to an old piece of

point is anything not in the

that which is born of the Spirit

furniture, an old painting, an

process

is spirit. Marvel not that I said

old car, or even an old house in

something else.

unto thee, Ye must be born

need of restoration. But the

In Christianity, the process of

again.”

focus of Rebirth Magazine is

rebirth is different. Although

most people is the term “born

the

we become that others may

again.” To be born again, is to

become,

be regenerated into the new

life provided in Christ when one

has accepted Him as Lord and

explained in relation to the

REBIRTH. Passing from death

Savior. Then begins a life-long

laws of change. According to

to life, is not physical. It is a

journey of new beginnings in

these laws we are in an

spiritual awakening, spiritual

Christ. New Life, new outlook,

transformation from a life of

very much like a new born

souls

women.,

new.

and

spirits

undergoing

of a

Buddhism,

the

becoming

transformation. In

rebirth

transformation,

becoming

process leads which

What is puzzling for

baby, learning everything for

sickness,

death

Lord told the people of Israel in

the first time, seeing everything

comes to us all. The choice to

Isaiah 1:16-19 “Wash you, make

for the first time, living for real

allow these obstacles to remain

you clean; put away the evil of

for the first time as born again,

as such or use them

your doings from before mine

faith filled believer in Christ. No

opportunities to learn, and grow

eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to

longer bound by the challenges

is up to us. Unfortunately for

do well; seek judgment, relieve

of life, the circumstances of life,

many women around the world

the

the sins and cares of life that

their choices have been taken

fatherless, plead for the widow.

tend to weigh us down; keeping

from them by those closest to

Come now, and let us reason

us separated from God and

them. Or at least, it seems at

together, saith the Lord: though

walking in darkness.

the time that your choice has

your sins be as scarlet, they shall

been taken. and shaped into a

be as white as snow; though

That is what Rebirth of the Total

perfect work in the hands of an

they be red like crimson, they

Almighty God.

So, the good

shall be as wool. If ye be willing

Unfortunately, many of us have

news is God is not through with

and obedient, ye shall eat the

had bad things to happen to us

us yet. Even better news is the

good of the land: But if ye refuse

just as much as good things. We

best is yet to come. It is our

and rebel, ye shall be devoured

find that life is filled with

vision, and our prayer that you

with the sword: for the mouth of

tragedy and triumph.

There

will submit yourself under the

the Lord hath spoken it. The

would not be one without the

divine authority of God, by the

warning is that once you hear

other. We as women are faced

salvific work of Jesus The Christ

the word of the Lord and choose

with challenges daily. Whatever

on the Cross of Calvary. Allow

to walk according to your own

your role may be, wife, mother,

Him to work in you, new life

understanding, never yielding to

sister, daughter, friend, niece,

causing, all things to become

his word then the promises

aunt,

employee,

new. For it is according to the

become null and void in your

student,

Word of God that by him are we

life.

made new.

living in the manifestation of his

Woman

employer,

preacher,

about.

teacher,

philanthropist, Nobel

peace

humanitarian, prize

loss,

grief,

winner,

oppressed,

judge

the

Instead of walking and

promises and blessings, you will

doctor, lawyer, judge, senator,

says

be walking under a curse.

or county counsel woman, and

Therefore if any man be in

Nana’s Girls’ Foundation has

the list goes on and on…tragedy,

Christ, he is a new creature: old

envisioned just a place. A place

trouble, hardships, depression,

things are passed away; be-hold,

where women who are hurting,

Corinthians

5:17

all things are become new.” The

depressed,

going

through

for daily living. I could go on and

know that ye are my disciples, if

divorce, have been abused and

on about her, and how she

ye have love one to another."

for the first time free of their

blessed our lives. She married

She lived out loud and loved

abuser, lost, dying and in need

at age 15 and suffered 4

passionately. She commanded

of a friend to help them, women

miscarriages. Finally adopting

respect

needing a fresh start-we have a

one of her two girls from within

alone. Ladies and gentlemen, I

place for you. This brings me to

the family my mom and my Aunt

introduce to you a woman who

my personal story. Now there is

Lillie).

I watched her battle

loved the Lord and would pray

way too much to contain in

depression, and often feelings

until the anointing fell from

these few pages but will share

of inadequacy, fear of being

heaven....my

with you how N.G.F. came to be.

alone, and disappointment. My

Mable W. Williams...the woman

mother, brother and I walked

behind

with her through the loss of her

Foundation.

husband the Rev. Paul D.

I have been groomed for the

Williams, and caring for her sick

work of ministry all my life. All I

brother until his passing, Mr.

have ever known is school,

William Wright. As a young girl I

ministry and music.

witnessed how she cared for a

singing at age 2. Fast forward

dying aunt-who we called Yiyah.

32 years later (2005), still in

She was a Deaconess in both the

music and ministry I finally get

Baptist and AME Church. She

married

sang on the choir. And when

sweetheart. Although I myself

she'd turn her face to the wall

was

power would fall. This lady did

marriage, I allowed his parents,

not play though. She was tough,

and some other well-meaning

Meet Mable Wright Williams, AKA â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nana.â&#x20AC;? People often ask What is or who is Nana's Girls...Well

allow

introduce her to you. This is the woman that the organization is named after. God has granted me an awesome opportunity to be the granddaughter of this phenomenal woman. On Nov. 3rd, 1999 she finally won the battle

against

leukemia.

cancer,

and

She is resting and

awaiting the great trumpet sound, when the dead in Christ shall rise first.

It was this

awesome woman from which I learned so many things, from cooking to dressing the altar for worship. It was by the hands of this gift that I learned wisdom

but she was loving and caring. She was generous, and kind. Although she didn't speak in tongues, no one will ever tell me that she didn't have the Holy Ghost, because Jesus said in John 13:35 "By this shall all men

with

her

presence

grandmother

Nana's

skeptical

Girls'

I began

childhood

about

the

friends and ministers alike to

whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d

chaplain for some of the women

convince me that this was the

Florence. They were in a motel

there. But I experienced one of

right thing to do. That was one

and here we are my entire

the greatest set ups of my life.

of the most difficult times of my

family in a motel. Yes, this was

There was this one young lady

life. The marriage end-

devastating, but I continued

that proved to be my enemy in

ed in divorce in 2011. During

working at the church day and

the end, but at first, she was

the separation I and my three

night. I opened the church daily

someone that I mentored, I

children

from

and I closed the church daily.

counseled,

Charleston SC to Florence SC. I

My children would come in

spiritually and had such great

was the Administrative Pastor

from school to the church and

expectations for her and she

at my church at the time, and

we would be there sometimes

betrayed my trust. She began

the ministry was relocating to

until way after 11:00pm before

going to church with me, she

Florence. This was good for me.

I could get them to bed.

This

was tithing, she was getting to

I needed the change and was

went on for months. My dad,

know the people of the church

eager to make the move.

the children and I after my mom

and she betrayed the entire

I had lined up a job and an

had surgery and had to move in

ministry. This left me feeling

apartment before moving, but

with her baby sister in Beaufort

like a failure.

during the transition everything

to heal.

moved

also

relocated

fell through and eventually the apartment did too. One of our

The money finally ran out. And

new church mothers was able

now here we are completely

for battered women The Naomi Project.

My children and I

homeless.

Me with three

children and my dad trying to find his way through this maze. We were able to move into the

moved in January 2011. After

local transitional shelter, which

about 7 months, I was suddenly

proved to be both a blessing

dismissed from the program

and a curse. I was already a

and had to move.

Having

target for the enemy, but here

nowhere to go, my children and

the bullseye was placed on my

I moved in with my parents,

with

you pray for. Well, also while in Well, soon this came to an end.

the director for the local home

worked

It has been said be careful what

began to fall to pieces. The job

to get me an appointment with

back. I became the resident

the shelter, I met a man who eventually

became

husband. This is another story for another time, but I will say this. The experience has been one of the great challenges. But like you I had some very hard choices to make before me. The sum of those choices could either lead me to, or away from destiny. So how do you make these decisions? This is where the process of rebirth begins.

You must come to a place where

place you’re in, ten years from

(challenges, difficulties, trials,

enough is enough. You must

now. The process of rebirth is

and temptations), and choose

take personal inventory. Look

not an easy one. Along the way

to follow the Lord.

at your life, and ask yourself Is

there will be pits, drops, pot

promises, as only He can, as He

this where you want to be?

holes, craters, U-turns, detours,

said in Isaiah 40:4, 5 Every valley

Where do I see myself in 5

rain,

volcanic

shall be exalted, and every

years? Why am I here? What is

eruptions, and even a hurricane

mountain and hill shall be made

my purpose? What will life be

or two. But, on the other side of

low: and the crooked shall be

like for my family? If I died

the storm is green pastures,

made straight, and the rough

beautiful

sunsets,

places plain: And the glory of

rivers of living water, crisp cool

the Lord shall be revealed, and

breezes, and more to look

all flesh shall see it together: for

forward to.

the mouth of the Lord hath

tonight, would my soul be lost? Have I made a difference in this earth?

What is the most

important thing?

sleet,

snow,

horizons,

And he

spoken it. My transformation is These are only of the few life

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30

not complete.

changing questions that will

Come unto me, all ye that labor

changing and ever evolving into

cause you to begin life anew.

and are heavy laden, and I will

the Woman of God I was

Fundamentally speaking, it’s

give you rest. Take my yoke

created to become. The same

not money, fame, fortune,

upon you and learn of me; for I

holds true for all the women

houses, cars, land, education or

am meek and lowly in

prestige. The bottom line is “Is

heart: and ye shall

my living in vain?” As you look

find rest unto your

back over your life, and begin to

souls. For my yoke is

think about the should haves,

easy, and my burden

the could haves, the wish I ‘d

is light. The way of

done’s

the

you will see yourself

Lord

not

RIGHT WHERE GOD WANTS

difficult. No, every

YOU. Now the choice is yours.

day is not cookies and

You can begin again, and trust

crème. Every day is

HIM for the outcome, or you

not a bed of roses.

can continue doing what you’re

Daily you must pick

doing and end up in the same

up your cross

I am still

that have made themselves

Come with me.

Refuse to

vulnerable in this issue of

accept what others have said

Rebirth. We are ever growing,

you can have, or who they said

ever moving, ever becoming.

you would be. Choose today to

That’s the exciting part. Who I

begin again and enjoy your

am now, is not who I will be in

REBIRTH. I love you and want

nothing but God’s excellent way for you.

five years, and neither will you.

Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.”

BUILDING HEALTHY FAMILIES FROM REBIRTH We were in Sunday School one morning and the final question of the day was “Why is there so much of a difference between the generations today versus the generation of yesterday? Church mothers began to answer this question. And among the answers were the amount of violence, how children are raised today, but the most compelling argument was that the fear of God is gone from the Regular church attendance as a family, and honor God with your substance. Family prayer and reading time in the word of God. Set individual boundaries and respect them. Set scheduled activities for children and teens. Don’t forget to schedule time for Mom and Dad as well. Allow space and time away from one another to cultivate some healthy private and quality time with the Father, and to keep the desire to be together alive.

home. I myself as a wife, mother, pastor, and business owner deal with this issue constantly. How to raise a healthy family. Here are my 12 principles. Although each family is different we are all still the same in our desire for unity, togetherness, ONENESS! Try them for yourself or use them as a guide for raising our own Healthy Family.

survive.

Involve grandparents, and extended families to build that family structures and to cultivate relationships outside of the home. Consistently pray over your family, anointing with oil as needed. Teach the children to anoint and pray as well. Visit the children at school both when invited and by surprise; this allows for you to see what’s going on in their lives. Remember to encourage friendships and relationships that are not blood related. We need each other to

Encourage little one to think for themselves. watch, so and say what parents do. They must learn how to be individuals with their own person abilities. Discipline is necessary for all those involved. If you make promises and commitmentsKEEP THEM! Once again, prayer is the most essential ingredient. Prayer will enable you to love unconditionally as God loves us. The more you pray, the more you love, the more power you have, and the less the enemy can penetrate your family.

DARLENEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STORY Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M EVRY WOMAN Constant spiritual warfare. We seek daily to become stronger, to Grow and mature in the Lord, to nurture and cultivate our gifts, to be strengthen and powerful in those gifts. Gifts and callings are without repentance, but to keep from remaining stagnant, and for the power of God to be evident Women wear many hats. We share many roles.

in our lives we must stay before the LORD.

Often, these roles become crossed because we

Only then will we be

serve many different people. I myself live this

operate with POWER.

reality every day. But it is by the grace of God by which I have strength to get through each day. I am Evangelist and Pastor, Darlene Friend

ANOINTED and able to

This kind of power produces a big DIFFERENCE, your RESULTS are TREMENDOUS.

Richardson. My husband, Pastor, and Prophet

I am a help meet, his partner, lover, and best friend.

Torrest D. Richardson Sr. and I are the Pastors of

When I am operating in my role fully, I complement

KINGDOM LIFE INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES. We

him and bring out the essentials needed to the

have 3 children Montreal, Khristian, and Torrest Jr.

perfection of his being. I must walk in wisdom and

And 3 Grandsons Tremel , Zaiden Josiah, and Keyon

knowledge,

As a 1st Lady I am a wife, mother, mentor,

being

sensitive,

emotional

and

understanding of the concerns and needs of my

and counselor. My title, work, position, and

Husband.

I must remain focused and walk in

requirements are important, to God because He is

discernment.

expecting me to fulfill those rolls.

He has

deceiving, lying, and if not careful in the Spirit you

EQUIPPED, and PURPOSED us for in this time and

will get hoodwinked, by wolves in sheep clothing.

season. It is important to understand that my role

So, I must be his eyes, and his watchmen. My prayers

is wife first, then as the First Lady. This means that

keep him strengthened, covered, and forms a

I must have a personal relationship with God. That

shield.

includes much fasting and much praying, and

I've experience hurt, pain, disappointment, and

laying prostrate before the LORD. We are in

brokenness, but through all of that I must still show

Unfortunately, there is a lot of

unconditional love, forgiveness, and remain

understanding, hugs, kisses, and affection to be

focused

and

effective. Even when our children make mistakes,

endurance. That's why I must maintain a close

fall, or fail, our love for them will remain just as

relationship with GOD. During those times of

God’s

brokenness, hurt, disappointed, and pain I fall on

love remains. We must continue to keep and cover

my face to DADDY, that's what I call him. I call Him

them in prayer. Always being mentor and counselor.

for

I am a role model, so the life I live must glorify God.

HEALING AND COMFORT because I realize that I

Seeing a godly life lived is an invaluable benefit. I am

don't have to remain in that state. So, I choose

and encourager, and good listener. I Believe in

healing as soon as possible, enabling me to continue

others, and I understand when there is clutter, hang-

moving forward in God. You must be careful when

ups, failure, misunderstanding, pressure, confusion,

you are hurt, broken, etc., You cannot allow those

disappointment, and imperfections in their lives.

emotions to speak to you, or it will begin to paint a

We strive to bring clarity to every situation. We

false picture, don’t entertain it, or you will find

must promote spiritual growth, maturity, love,

yourself stuck, needing deliverance so you can

hope, peace, patience, understanding, wisdom, and

move forward.

be available in times of crisis. I am energetic and

continue

faithfulness,

Remember Satan will use anything to keep you from prospering, focusing, and moving forward in God. The enemy will try to stop, and destroy you. As 1st Lady and a Wife I can make my Husband’s job as the Pastor, Evangelist, Prophet job hard, or easy. There are times when I must carry the weight in the natural and spiritual, so my Husband can stay FOCUSED and keep MOVING in the things of GOD. We can make our husbands’, pastoral job, work, duties, or whatever God has created them to be easy or hard. I choose to make my Husband’s job easy doing my spiritual and natural duties—by being who God has created me to be to him. I am also a mother to many, some younger, and some older.

Age doesn't matter if God has

EQUIPPED you for the work. It takes love, peace,

eager to ne about my Father’s business.

10 Tips to Financial Success From Rebirth

1. Honor God with your Substance First and foremost, remember to honor God with your substance, by giving back to Him as he gives to you. Tithing is the first 10% of your income. Be it weekly, bi-weekly, twice monthly, or monthly, as you honor God, He will rebuke the devourer on your behalf and see to it that you have enough to not only meet your needs, but more than enough. Malachi 3:10-12 accurate.

2. Know where your money goes Be aware of how you are spending your money. A $4 cup of coffee five days a week costs you $80/month. Review some of the items you spend your money on to find areas where cutting back can move your savings account forward. 3. Develop a budget Plan for your expenditures by developing a budget and live within your means based on your monthly income, adjust remain within your budget and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use a credit card to cover a shortfall or unnecessary purchases. 4. Include savings in your budget Pay yourself first. Treat your savings account like any other monthly bill by making a monthly payment toward it. 5. Plan for major purchases Adjust your budget accordingly to build savings or your next major purchase without using credit.

6. Save for emergencies A good rule of thumb is to have a minimum of six months of salary

available in your savings account. While this goal will take time to achieve, it is important to strive for it, so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re prepared for most unexpected emergencies.

7. Plan for retirement Take advantage of interest and market upturns by saving for retirement early. Often your employer will help you save for retirement with a 401 (k) plan. You can also benefit from pre-tax contributions using this method of retirement savings. 8. Get tax advice If you have circumstances that create tax dilemmas e.g., self-employed, own and/or lease property, etc.) make sure to seek tax advice from a professional for the best outcome. 9. Protect your credit You have the right to pull a free credit report form each reporting bureau once per year by going online to www.annualcreditreport.com. Keep in mind that late payments will adversely impact your credit, as will a failure to pay. You should immediately report any credit issues or discrepancies to the reporting bureau. Use your credit wisely and ensure your reports are

10. Keep good financial records Utilize online tools as well as paper copies of receipts to keep records of your paystubs, banking information, taxes, insurance, and other documents important to your financial situation.

A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things. Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV

MARRIAGE & FAMILY ‘TIL DEATH DO US PART by REBIRTH The Church as a redemptive

vision of Christ and His Church.

agency of Christ is to minister

This union is to be the cause of

to its members in all their

a glorious occasion. If this is

needs and to nurture everyone

true and we believe it is, then

so that all may grow into a

why do we sometimes find

mature Christian experience.

bitterness,

When a couple’s marriage is in

disappointment

danger of breaking down,

Christian marriage?

every effort should be made by

Paul writes in Romans 12:10.

the partners and those in the

Be kindly affectionate one to

church or family who minister

marriage vows, ad to their

another with brotherly love, in

to them to bring about their

children.

honor preferring one

reconciliation in harmony with

expectations in marriage are

another; rejoicing in hope;

divine principles for restoring

different between spouses,

patient in tribulation,

Wounded relationships.

and when this is not shared the

continuing instant in prayer. It

boundary

is the Spirit of Christ to love and

unestablished

accept, to seek, to affirm and

communications to break down.

The Christian marriage is to exemplify and personify the

ager, in

and the Apostle

build others up, rather than abuse or demean them. “The

Christian

marriage

covenant experiences the same turmoil, tests and trials as the non-Christian

marriage

covenant. What separates the two is the commitment first unto God’s plan, to their

Sometimes

lines

the

are causing

Insecurities of one partner can eventually

cause

distrust.

Learning to respect each other’s

These negative emotions can take

tears and tears accompany you all

space and individual boundaries

their

marriage

day? What happens when peace is

can save a marriage from

relationship. The way we chose to

as far away from your relationship,

react to their stress can determine

as the last is as far away from your

the outcome of their lives. “When

relationship, as the east is from the

we humble ourselves sufficiently

west. What happens when fear

and seek out God’s love, mercy,

sets in? Yes, this happens-even in a

and inspiration, he will show us a

Christian home. How it happens

way

tends not to even have an answer

separation. “Marriage problems can escalate to the point where both spouses think they need physical

and

emotional

separation

from

irreparable

toll

resolve

the

painful

damage to the relationship.

situations or give us patience to

anymore.

Two emotions that erode a

await his resolution, even though

gone, the desire to fight is gone, the

we may have to endure for a time

eed to get out is our only solution

with faith that he will not abandon

and is the only thing bringing you

us.”

peace.

marriage

are

resentment.

anger

and

These two very

powerful emotions can cause

The heart to fight is

Couples

enormous Marriage.

conflict

don’t

the

always split because

They are as equally

the marriage is bad.

powerful as they are destructive.

Sometimes

“However, if you learn to identify

come

the real root of your anger, work to

two-people involved

resolve it, and let it go, you can stop

don’t really know one

resentment form ever forming.

another at all. There

There are important principles in

are even times when

marriage.

although

“Love,

loyalty,

exclusiveness, trust and support all

principles

are

When these

violated,

the

great, what happens when two

Christ, wo love Jesus with all their Scripture that

tragic

destroy

acknowledges

circumstances

marriage.

When

can a

marriage is deficient of these principles, the opportunity for anger and resentment are great.

the

you

are

you are single, or you Although this all sounds

people who are committed to

marriage is endangered.

because

married, you live as if

being upheld by both partners in obedience to God.

splits

hearts can no longer live together in Holy Matrimony. What happens when the pain is too great to bare, when sadness instead of joy

are married but feeling alone. You and your spouse may have already separated, or you may still live together. All you know is that you are miserable, and you need to find a way to either heal your broken marriage or give in to the idea of a divorce.

becomes your companion, when you awake to tears, go to bed in

“If we do not have peace in our

families and in our homes, it is

hold the potential for the deepest

preservation of that sacred trust is

because we have not allowed

hurts. I do not believe that any

to reveal a shallowness that will

peace to ‘rule ’The affairs of our

relationship

continue to plague the marriage

lives (Colossians 3:15). Peace will

possibilities or binds us more

deeply.

lead us out of wrong situations. It

deeply

than

reach out to its hurting people with

will separate us unto the Lord

marriage. To that connection we

a faith that embraces the pas in

Himself.

Most of the time the

make solemn pledges, promising to

forgiveness and opens the future in

peace of God upsets the proverbial

love, to honor, and cherish ‘each

hope.

“apple cart” of our lives. To get to

other’ for richer, for poorer, in

where we are led by the Spirit of

sickness and in health, forsaking all

God, the peace of God will separate

others, and to be faithful, all to the

our lives from the carnal ways we

One spouse, with the expectation

live, hence tipping our world up-

of that spouse doing likewise.

side down. Peace and, marriage go

When we fail, the church needs to

together. We can’t have a true

meet us in our pain, to enable us to

marriage

stand even when we have fallen

Corinthians 7:15), nor can we have

and to give us courage to live, love,

a relationship with God without

and risk again.

peace

abandon this sacred relationship

without

between

peace

and

us.

(Ephesians 2:14-18) Those human relationships that promise the greatest joy and

offers

one

another

No one should

without making every effort to heal and transform the brokenness. Failure to struggle in the cause for

Here, the church must

Although this may be met with opposition, I believe the church needs to proclaim that divorce

sometimes

the

alternative which gives hope for life, and that remaining in an abusive and sometimes volatile marriage can I some cases lead to death.

The confrontation of this

fact became all too real for me in 2009.

My greatest fears had

become my reality. Sure, I could write about the terrible things

my spouse said to me or the

work, so I tried. For five years I was

horrible

were

in the worst shape of my life. I was

dying spiritually, emotionally, and

actions

displayed.

that But

importantly, I want to tell you about me. Suddenly, this person that had been a dear friend, had

mentally I was drained from all the abuse and the façade of trying to maintain a happy marriage.

anointing as ordained by God. The ultimate thing we can say about marriage is that it exists for God’s glory.

The intent of

marriage is to display the glory of God. Marriage is patterned after

become my enemy. I did not like

I never believed in divorce for me.

Christ’s covenant relationship to

being married to him. I didn’t want

Yes, I know that there

his redeemed people, the church.

to be his wife anymore. I lost the

situations where divorce is the only

And

heart, the desire, the passion, and

way to heal.

But I never wanted

meaning and the most ultimate

the strength needed to fight for our

that for myself. Here I am now, not

purpose of marriage is to put the

marriage. I found myself in a very

merely entertaining the idea, but

covenant relationship of Christ and

lonely place.

I was constantly

seeking counsel and settling in my

His Church on display.

frustrated. I found myself trying to

mind that this is my only viable

overcome this nervous habit I had

option. A preacher-yes, I am. A

as a kid always biting my nails and

lover of Christ-yes, I am. A born-

chewing my fingers, looking over

again believer-yes, I am. A mother

my shoulders in fear. I hated being

of three boys-yes, I am. And for the

with this man. What was supposed

first time in six years-free! I can be

to have been a match made in

me and operate fully in the

heaven, was proving to be the worst mistake of my life. The only time I was happy was in church and away from him. Tears had become my constant companion. And if that wasn’t enough, I’d begun to take on my husband’s bad attitude, always angry-especially when at home with him. I suddenly realized how much I did not love this man. I was with him because of ministry, and I was pregnant when we married. I’d taken a vow and was determined not to become a statistic. M pastor said make it

are

therefore,

the

highest

Staying married, thereof, is not mainly about staying in love. Marriage is about telling the truth with our lives, and portraying Jesus daily. When marriage fails to do this, God no longer gets the glory.

Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom is kept safe. (Amplified Bible) 2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but (He has given us a spirit) of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. (Amplified Bible) Colossians 3:13 Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has (freely) forgiven you, so must you also forgive. (Amplified Bible)

There is a misconception that

Faucet from the movie The

ignored,

domestic violence is a crime only

Burning Bed has liberated and

money, the rejection of one

against women. For many years

inspired women as she gets

spouse, the desire to be with

the only images seen are those

revenge against the man who has

someone who obviously does not

where women are the sole target

been beating her and causing her

desire you, except during

of a manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rage, often resulting in

pain.

their own personal times of need,

Sure, people see the visible scars

the abject humiliation of being

and bruises, black eyes and

treated

broken bones. But what about

the threatsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;these are the things

her death. No one sees the scars that are left behind from years of yelling, screaming, name calling,

the

withholding

child

THE MANY FACES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FROM REBIRTH

and being cursing out, etc. Often

the mental images, the sound of

that

happen

when

the

what we see is a woman living in

fear walking through the house.

curtains are closed, and you are all

fear. For years, images of Farah

The abject silence of being

alone.

The morning of my 36th birthday

following morning and I am being

you know that I can have you killed

was horrible. The night before I

threatened,

and no one would ever know? He

went to pick my husband up from

embarrassment. Later that day, he

said.

work. He told me that he would be

called me at work to argue. Then

children’s food he came into the

in a meeting so pick him up at

he came to pick me up from work,

kitchen still yelling. I walked into

another building.

and picked a fight all the way

the bedroom, he followed. I went

arrived, he wasn’t there. I simply

home.

to the bathroom, he followed.

asked the security guard if they

more he cursed, the more he

came back to the kitchen, he

that the meeting had been moved

threatened, the angrier he got.

followed. I went outside to the

But when I

and

called

The more I ignored the

to another building and where to go.

As I was preparing the

balcony, he followed, whispering

I followed the guard’s

On the way home, I stopped to get

so the neighbors wouldn’t hear. I

instructions only to discover that

some food for dinner. Two of our

went back into the house, he was

my husband had left the meeting

five children were in the backseat.

still taunting. Finally, I had had

to come to the other building to

He was still taunting and raging on

enough, and before I knew it, I

meet

and on.

picked up my food, and just threw

me. Of course, now, I had to drive

began taking the food and the

We arrived home and

back to the other building to pick him up. We got home, had dinner, put the children to bed, watched a movie, and went to bed. Then at 3am my husband awoke and began to taunt me. “If I ever see you with another man I am going to put a bullet in your head.” I told you what to do, but no you had to get information from another man as if I didn’t know what to do. You always embarrass me. There had been nothing said the night before.

Even when I explained

what had happened, he just simply said it’s okay. They moved the meeting, and no one knew that I’d left the meeting. Now here it is the

children inside. I’m a cop, don’t

it at him.

He called the police on me. I then left the house walking. It was dark. I left so quickly, I didn’t take my cell phone with me. I didn’t take my ID or anything. I just left because I had to get out of the house. I walked around the mall parking lot, then, I walked into McDonald’s and hid inside a booth for about 45 minutes. I then heard the Holy Spirit say go home. I had every intention of walking to my mother’s house, which would have really been a mistake. My dad would have flipped out. I was less than five miles away from my house. It was nearing the hour for him to go to work. As I walked in, he was relieved that I’d returned, apologetic, loving, and just about in tears. He was really, genuinely afraid and totally un-certain about what I was going to do. That night could have ended in tragedy. But the Lord was with me, protecting me, and guiding me. During the marriage he never hit me, but the image of that night is forever etched in my memory. Those scars although, I am no longer married to him, and remarried

someone

anytime

anything

else,

remotely

resembles that time in my life, I become tense, and my antennas go up. I become defensive and I

shut down. These are the scars that no one ever

sees,

and

are

harder to prove in court. So, here are some tips to assist you when faced with

abuser/batterer. There I went through

‘never hit a woman’ to heart,

Victims of CDV Training classes

never hitting back. Some of these

for 12 weeks. I had to learn how

men grew up in homes where this

to care for the children, who were

type of behavior was prevalent.

victims too. He had to complete

Lenore E. Walker interviewed

26 weeks of Anger Management.

1,500 women who had been

Then we had to go through

subject to domestic violence and

couples counseling to keep CPS

found that there was a similar

from taking the children. Here

pattern of abuse, called the "cycle

are some facts to educate you

of abuse".[1] Initially, Walker

about this epidemic.

proposed that the cycle of abuse

According the national registry, in

described

2010 SC ranks 2nd worse in the

patriarchal behavior of men who

nation for domestic violence.

felt entitled to abuse their wives

And again in 2015 SC ranked #1 in

to maintain control over them.

the nation for deadly violence

Her terms "the battering cycle"

against women.

and "battered woman syndrome"

is help there.

The Victims Men are victims too. Controlling, insecure

women

often

take

advantage of quiet or men that already battle with inadequacies of their own, or men who take

the

controlling

has since been largely eclipsed by the

"cycle

"battered

of person

abuse"

and

syndrome,"

respectively, for many reasons: to maintain objectivity; because the cycle of abuse doesn't always

lead to physical abuse; because

relationships, and may favor

symptoms of the syndrome have

ideological presumptions over

been observed in men and

empirical data.

women, and are not confined to marriage and dating. Similarly,

Phases

Dutton

The cycle usually goes in the following order, and will repeat until the conflict is stopped, usually by the survivor entirely abandoning the relationship[4] or some form of intervention.[5] The cycle can occur hundreds of times in an abusive relationship, the total cycle taking anywhere from a few hours, to a year or more to complete. However, the length of the cycle usually diminishes over time so that the "reconciliation" and "calm" stages may disappear, violence becomes more intense and the cycles become more frequent. 1: Tension buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;

(1994)

prevalence

writes,

"The

violence

homosexual relationships, which also appear to go through abuse cycles is hard to explain in terms of men dominating women." The cycle of abuse concept is widely used in domestic violence programs, particularly in the United States. Critics have argued the theory is flawed as it does not apply as universally as Walker suggested, does not accurately or completely describe all abusive

Stress builds from the pressures of daily life, like conflict over children, marital issues, misunderstandings, or other family conflicts. It also builds as the result of illness, legal or

financial problems, unemployment or catastrophic events, like floods, rape or war. During this period, the abuser feels ignored, threatened, annoyed or wronged. The feeling lasts on average several minutes to hours, it may last as much as several months. To prevent violence, the victim may try to reduce the tension by becoming

compliant

and

nurturing. Or, to get the abuse over with, prepare for the violence or lessen the degree of injury, the victim may provoke the batterer.

"However, at no time is the

3: Reconciliation/honeymoon—

survivor

batterer justified in engaging in

The perpetrator may begin to feel

relationship.

violent or abusive behavior," said

remorse, guilty feelings, or fear

frequently so convincing, and

Scott Allen Johnson, author of

that their partner will leave or call

survivors

Physical

the police. The victim feels pain,

relationship to improve, that

fear,

survivors (who are often worn

Abusers

and

Sexual

Offenders. 2: Acute violence—Characterized by outbursts of violent, abusive incidents which may be preceded by verbal abuse and include psychological abuse. During this stage the abuser attempts to dominate (survivor)

his/her with

partner

the

domestic violence.

use

In intimate

partner violence, children are negatively affected by having witnessed the violence and the partner's relationship degrades as well. The release of energy reduces the tension, and the abuser may feel or express that the victim "had it coming" to them.

humiliation,

disrespect,

from

leaving Abusers

eager

the

down

feel responsible.

longstanding abuse) stay in the

affection,

alternatively,

apology, ignoring

or,

confused

are

confusion, and may mistakenly Characterized

and

for

the

relationship.

the

incident, this phase marks an

4: Calm—During this phase (which

apparent end of violence, with

is often considered an element of

assurances that it will never

the

happen again, or that the abuser

phase),

will do his or her best to change. During this stage the abuser may feel or claim to feel overwhelming remorse

and

sadness.

Some

abusers walk away from the situation with little comment, but

honeymoon/reconciliation the

relationship

relatively calm and peaceable. During this period the abuser may agree to engage in counseling, ask for forgiveness, and create a normal atmosphere. In intimate partner

relationships,

the

perpetrator may buy presents, or

most will eventually shower the

the

survivor with love and affection.

passionate sex.

The abuser may use self-harm or

batterer's apologies and requests

threats

for forgiveness become less

suicide

gain

couple

may

engage

Over time, the

sympathy and/or prevent the

sincere and are generally stated to prevent separation or intervention. However, interpersonal difficulties will inevitably arise, leading again to the tension building phase. The effect of the continual cycle may include loss of love, contempt, distress, and/or physical disability. Intimate partners may separate, divorce or, at the extreme, someone may be killed.

******ATTENTION****** We urge you, if you find yourself in an abusive situation, GET OUT! Your life and the life of your children are more precious than that relationship. NOONE HAS THE RIGHT TO ABUSE YOU UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE. Call our office at 843-289-0998 and we will help you to take the necessary steps into your future. YOU DESERVE IT!!

Beauty of A Woman

BEAUTY OF A WOMAN Maya Angelou, Ralph Fenger, Audrey Hepburn & Sam Levenson

The beauty of a woman isn't in the clothes she wears,

The figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes; Because that's the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. The beauty of a woman isn't in a facial mole; But true beauty in a woman, is reflected by her soul. It's the caring that she cares to passion that she shows; And the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows.

KISHA’S STORYLUPUS & ADHD NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD walking dead, I was finally diagnosed with something and that was pneumonia. Even after being treated for pneumonia things didn’t seem to work in my favor health wise…. weight loss continued, and I looked like a tree stump. One morning I awoke, and I saw this pimple on the side of my nose. I was disgusted because I do not get pimples. I tried to put band aids on it to keep it flat. After a few days I noticed that this pimple Hi, I am Kisha J. McRae, better known as the

began to change its shape. It was spreading

Stiletto KWEEN of ADHD. On June 4th, 1989 I

all over to the right side of my face. That day

gave birth to my first child and it was a baby

I wanted to just end my life, but I had my baby

girl …just what I wanted. She was so beautiful

girl and she needed me. Plus, who am I to talk

and perfect. A year after she was born I

about taking my life when I know it’s

suffered from an inability to swallow. My

something Jesus would not forgive me for. In

face blew up like a balloon and was so

my mind, I said I wasn’t playing with Jesus.

disfigured that I was unrecognizable. I

After seeing my medical doctor, she referred

remember being in the middle of the room

while doctors crowed around me trying to

Presbyterian NYC.

figure out what was wrong. I felt like an item on display that no one wanted. At this time in my life I smiled a lot while silently I didn’t want to live. My life seemed scarce and I felt like it had no meaning and I wanted to die. My emotions were all over the place but very quietly I told no one that I was falling to pieces.

After months of feeling like the

dermatologist

Columbia

He asked me questions like were there any illness that may run in the family. I told him about Lupus. I explained that my maternal aunt and grandmother had it. He took a biopsy of the ugly pimple on my face. He told me to come back in about a week. Well that whole week all I could think of is

that I might have Lupus. I started to think,

One day when I was out, still feeling

“What will I do if he tells me I have Lupus and

dangerously depressed and wanting to end

how will I live.” I contemplated that my life

my life, a man noticed me in my stride, my

would be different when I go back to that

demeanor, and disposition. He told me when

dermatologist. The pneumonia was being

he saw me in my boots I looked like POWER,

healed but my soul felt like death. The day

as if I could rule the world. He named me

came when I had to go back to the

“Stiletto Queen.” From that day on I adopted

dermatologist. When I walked in the doctor’s

that name and said it would be my alter ego;

office it felt like I had a dark cloud following

a part of me that spoke confidence. That was

me. My body felt like it was going to shut

the day that God rescued me and used

down. Then the doctor appeared, and he

Stiletto Queen to save me from myself. From

looked like he was walking in slow motion

that day, I said no more thoughts of taking my

before he reached me to tell me the results. I

life. However, I humbly say that I am still here

remember his exact words. I’m sorry but you

looking as good as ever. It had been ten years

have Lupus. He said it like it was something he

of my diagnosis of lupus. There was a time a

was used to saying daily. Then he proceeded to say Lupus has about a 10-year life span. Now, I was only 19, and my daughter was a year old. My heart stopped because I had little to no knowledge of what Lupus was. I feared not only death but that my face would become altered. I was worried about my skin becoming

discolored

because

grandmother’s skin was severely discolored. I knew that on this very day, life as I knew it would never be the same. So many times, I contemplated suicide, but God wouldn’t allow it. At times I wished my heart would just stop. Eventually, as time passed I took life one day at a time.

few years after diagnosis that I took no

remember my mother saying, “Ok baby, I’m

medication. Lupus went into remission in my

on my way.” It’s nothing like having your

early twenties. Glory!

However, on New

mother by your side when illness strikes. No

Year’s Eve 1997 I became severely ill, while

matter how old you are, the presence of your

dressed in celebratory attire prepared to

mother brings about a sense of security and

hang out with my girlfriends and dressed in

comfort. I have been blessed with my second

my red stiletto boots, I almost passed out.

mom, who was also by my side during this

My sister dialed 911 immediately. When the

difficult time.

medical professionals arrived, and took my

room trembling, I prayed for GOD to sustain

temperature it was 104 and rising. I was

me until my mom got there. I always had faith

rushed and admitted to the hospital. They

and knew the Lord created miracles, but for

discovered I had a contagious disease and

some reason I felt that I was slipping away.

they secluded me from all the other patients.

When my Ms. America mother arrived, she

I was able to speak to my mother on the

refused to wear a mask or scrubs. I specifically

phone, who was out of town at the time and

remember hearing my mother fussing about

I can remember her asking me. “Do you want

me being left alone and the fact that no one

me to come home? “Without hesitation I said

had checked on me in a while. My mother

yes. I could feel something different about my

called for the nurse insisting that she take my

body that I had never experienced. I

temperature

While lying in the hospital

and

contact

doctor

who had finally come after 2 hours of being called into my room. When the doctors came to check my temperature, it had come from 105 to 102. God used my mother and His voice to save my life. I was kept dull, gloomy room, but it was ok because my mother was by my side. When I was finally able to speak again, I asked the

immediately. She insisted that the nurse give her some ice water and towels. She then threw the nurses out, began to pray and rub me down with the ice and the cold water. My mother told me she saw my eyes rolling to the back my head and when she tried to keep me talking. I would mumble but made no sense. I remember my mother praying out loud as she held me with both arms, as I laid my head on her breasts. I felt like I was floating on air with death close by. I felt this because I was not fighting and began to give up. I saw visions of my daughter in the fog before me but then I heard a whisper. The voice was soft and so calm, and it spoke to me saying “fight, I’m not ready for you yet.” The next thing I knew I was being awakened by the doctor

doctors to check for a Lupus flare up, and they

my body was fighting and at war with itself

said Lupus was not active. This wasn’t odd to

during my pregnancy, but in the end, I was

me because every time I had a flare up Lupus

blessed with a healthy baby boy who is now

wouldn’t show up in my blood as active, but

17 years old. I was still able to complete my

my symptoms indicated Lupus. I remember

undergraduate degree, but did not graduate

when the head doctor pushed the door open

until 2003.

and told them to immediately remove me from the back and put me in a regular room. She was furious because she indicated I should have never been taken to that side of the

hospital

and

confirmed

wasn’t

contagious as previously indicated. I spent about 2 months in the hospital even after they began to finally treat me for a Lupus flare after waking up one morning unable to walk. This was a scary season in my life, but I made it through. In 1999 I was blessed with a bouncing baby boy. I call him my miracle baby. My doctor didn’t want me to move forward with my pregnancy, but I refused to abort my child. This was a life and I chose to let God decide the outcome. It was such a scary and painful experience and an ordeal for me because I was a high risk and couldn’t take any medicine for the symptoms associated with Lupus flare ups, because the medications would harm the baby. However, I continued a low dosage of steroids. I was informed it would do no harm to my baby boy. I felt like

Fast forward, now in my forties, after so many times of being afraid that I wouldn’t make it to forty, I began to get sick more often

with mostly flare ups, pain, severe fatigue,

the hospital because my doctor said I was

kidney infections and recurrences of UTI’S

sick. The expression on her face really

(Urinary Tract Infections). I did feel good

concerned me. She indicated that some of

emotionally because during this time in my

the bacteria had spilled in my blood and they

life although my normalcy was invaded I

had not yet determined the type of bug it

made some outstanding accomplishments

was. I was very familiar with some medical

personally and professionally. I obtained my

terminology so when she said that I was very

peer health educator certification with the

sick I knew was indeed in bad shape. When

hospital

Bacteria spills into your blood stream you can

volunteered working with newly diagnosed

become septic, which means that the body is

Lupus patients who visited the clinic, received

full of “poison. “The doctors could do nothing

my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Science

because if by chance, my body rejected the

with a minor in Social work, I became a

antibiotics. Here, I began to pray and declared

Certified Lupus Line counselor, #1 bestselling

the devil is a liar. I had no fear, because even

Author. Prior to becoming certified as a life

though I knew the doctors were concerned

coach, I was certified as a beauty control

about losing me, I knew GOD had the last say

consultant. I had presentation and speaking

so and that He didn’t bring me this far to take

experience. I had been a part of several

me away.

for

special

surgery

where

network marketing companies where I conducted presentations to demonstrate and promote products. As I was amid a battle with depression, and newly diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, I still mastered the art of what I call “Creating my New Norm. “

The doctors administered the first bag of antibiotics to attempt to clear my blood of the bacteria contamination. Then suddenly it appeared that my body began to receive antibiotic and it began to clean my blood. The decision had to be made to either keep me 8 more days or send me home with a nurse and

In August of 2015, I was hospitalized

a pic line implanted in my arm. I opted for

with a very bad kidney infection that came

going home with the pic line, so I could be

from a urinary tract infection. I was again in

taught by a nurse how to administer my own

severe pain and had to stay in the hospital for

IV medication. I was educated in the hospital

8 days. I had around the clock care while in

by my nurse of how to use the pic line. This

was a little scary because I thought “what if I don’t administer it correctly and it doesn’t work? “I was assured no one would leave me until I was comfortable doing it by myself with confidence. Doctors recommended that I go home because they didn’t want me to catch any infections by staying another week in the

hospital. I went home and completed my 8 more days of treatment successfully without any issues. Although I had the scare of losing my life for the second time, I am still standing and will continue to inspire women, teenage girls, and families; to restore, transform, elevate, to never give up, and to live again, after not just a diagnosis, but unexpected adversities. I will forever encourage people to know that an unforeseen diagnosis and an unexpected adversity in life doesn’t end life, it begins all over again. Look at me now. Would you think I had been through all that was mentioned? If I didn’t know me I wouldn’t either. Without GOD, my family and friends, creating my new norm would have been a dire struggle. They are my support system. Even with over a dozen medications I take I will continue to speak healing and life over my body. So now that you know a portion of my life story, and how my struggle became my strength. I’m sure that will you agree when you look at me, that Lupus and ADHD never look so good? Never give up!

A New Norm is thriving through unexpected adversities that plague your life, with godly solutions or while becoming comfortable being reintroduced to your authentic self. KJM The Stiletto KWEEN Experience is faith-oriented journey. It celebrates the essence women and teenage girls existence everywhere. The promotion celibacy, high self-esteem, positive transformation, authenticity, and the power of neve giving up, stepping into a New Norm. WE all have a Stiletto Queen inside of us. Mine is my growing faith, my relationship with God, and my fearlessness. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yours? The Stiletto Queen Experience of Stepping into a New Norm is coming to a city near you. Mission Statement: Stiletto Queen Transformations Life Coaching, endeavors to transform the lives of Women, teenage girls and families who have endured illness, mild mental disorders or UN expectant adversities to causing them emotionally to shut down and fear the future. SQTLC assists them with the tools, strategies, and spiritual balance to create a â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Norm,â&#x20AC;? restoring self-esteem, to transform emotionally, and elevating them to fearlessly live again with confidence and authenticity.

Daily

Devotion-Fostering

Read a good book, or get a

good.

personal relationship with our

manicure/pedicure, perhaps get a

ourselves is linked closely to our

Heavenly Father God is key. This

massage, go for a walk, take a

appearance. Although beauty is

walk requires a lifestyle of holiness

class, or whatever you need to for

vain, we should always want to be

through daily communications with

relaxation and empower- rment.

attractive to our spouses and

the Father.

Develop an exercise routine-Join

Take Time for “Self”-We spend so much time as women caring for others that we fail to take time for ourselves. It is imperative that we practice self-care to be productive and healthy. We get lost in daily activities,

family,

children,

spouses, and even work/ministry. We must make it a habit to do something special for ourselves.

a gym, do Yoga at home, go for a run/walk, do something to foster healthy habits that you may be

And feeling good about

want to represent the Kingdom well.

So, dump the grandma

hairdo and cotton stockings and get pretty.

physically fit for the fight. Our Refresh your wardrobe-Okay it’s bodies are the temple of the Holy not easy shopping these days. But Spirit. Let us do good to watch every woman’s closet should have over our temple daily.

the basic, a pair of black pumps or nice flats that compliment, a pair of

Develop a Skin Care/Beauty jeans, a white blazer, a black suit Regimen-Face it, we women love pants/skirt, a crisp white shirt, a to look good. We love to smell colorful

scarf,

and

matching

accessories. With these items you

Meditation-The key to peace in all You can do that all by yourself.

can’t go wrong. There is more, but

your relationships, is peace with Educate

get these in your closet and you

yourself and with God. Spend time school, get a degree, learn a new

can go anywhere.

meditating to relieve the stress and trade. It will increase your income

Get a “New Do”— summer’s here

pressures of daily life.

a ponytail is simple, reliable and all-

Maintain positive influences- a Maintain

purpose. Get a new color, a new

supportive and positive network is communication-No man is an

cut, do something that fames the

key in all relations.

face and adds height for us short

people around you to push you, lives.

people. Check with your stylist for

encourage you, whip your butt if good, and the other to keep us

something NEW this season.

necessary,

and

pour

yourself-Finish

high

and give you’re a sense of pride.

You need island.

need anyone tearing you down.

Open

line

We need people in our Good people to keep us

positive humble.

feedback into your spirit. You don’t

BEST SELLING AUTHOR, FAMILY RELATIONSIHP STRATEGIRST & EMOTIONAL HAELING STRTEGIST AND PRESIDEN OF NGF, INC. KISHA J. MCRE

I know your question is ‘What is an Emotional Healing Strategist?” Well let me tell you something very personal to help you understand. I myself, had to come to grips with this as well. With all my heart and soul, and from personal experience, I know what it’s like living under a false identity; always afraid of being judged, and even looking like a weak person when everyone around you thinks you are so strong. After being raped, I lived as someone else (an alter-ego) to bury my pain and to shut up shame. I struggled and suffered in silence. I was alive, but walking dead every single day with a big smile on my face. Guess what?? More and more daily, I wanted to die. On top of my psychological demise I was diagnosed with Lupus. The invisible disease that makes people question if you’re ‘really’ sick. This was the self-talk poisoning my mind.

I began telling myself and had to prove I was perfect with the flaws and or infirmities if I was going to be able to help people with their issues, since I was so good at it. I was ashamed and blamed myself for being sexually violated. The is one of the stigma of being emotionally wounded or in emotional pain, (listen) you are not unstable or mentally ill. I hid behind the mask that people depended on me. HOWEVER, it was this negative thought process, negative feelings and negative beliefs that almost caused me to take my life. God allowed me to go through that trauma because he knew I could handle it. God knew the assignment he had assigned to my hands, and He wanted me to complete it. So, this process had to happen. This was not something that I brought on myself. It was however something I had to go through. He saved me from myself at a time expressly ordained by Him, a time when He would transform my thoughts with my stilettos on my feet. This empowered me, and caused me to deeply search my soul and practice self-love strategies that He gave me. That transformation literally empowered me to boldly snatch my life back.

Follow me on Twitter @iamkishajmcrae Instagram @Iamkishajmcrae Follow me on Twitter @iamkishajmcrae Instagram @Iamkishajmcrae Facebook. bit.ly/iamkishajmcrae for speaking engagements Virtual or in person, to inquire about emotional healing topics and or Fees. Use email below. Looking for a life or transformation coach email me below and request a 15-minute Rapid Breakthrough an Emotional Transformation complimentary session.

It was then when my life began again. I created my new norm and became a powerhouse of Authenticity, Transparency and Vulnerability. My coaching practice was birthed in January 2015 and rebranded in 2017. Now, I help emotionally wounded women heal from past traumas and experiences, by first accepting and admitting out loud that this wound and pain exist, and cannot

be ignored any more. I help women with learning to control negative feelings, thoughts and beliefs. I use biblical principles, and real-life experiences of my own to help women discover who they really are; to empower them to ‘Create a New Norm’, and boldly SNATCH their lives back and experience a massive Transformation. In that, women clients step out empowered in their high heels and

or stilettos being what I call BEYOUTIFULL. This just means she knows who God says she is, and she slays being Authentic, Vulnerable and Transparent, overcoming that stigma of suffering in silence, and the negative thoughts patterns that cause you to believe if you get help that means you are mentally ill or weak.

WHEN IS IT MY TIME? WHEN IS IT MY TURN? BY. ELDER-ELECT DARLENE MINGO-DUBOIS In life, there are times when we feel as though things and situations in our lives are taking too long to manifest. We believe that we are entitled to a position. We have been beyond ready for a relationship. When is it my time? When is it my turn? This is the question that dwells in our thoughts, day to day. This is when we must understand that everything happens in due time. Although in the world we currently live in, the predicting of the seasons continues to meld into one another. We now have winter in spring, and summer in fall. Not knowing how to dress from day to day but based on what the weather expert tells us, they provide us a guess work of what is to come so that we can prepare. But it is when we understand, that all things come together in due season, we can begin to exercise the patience required to wait on it. In that waiting period, I coach my clients to prepares. In preparation go over and beyond what is required, see yourself already having it. Many men and women are ready to be united with their mate. They are frustrated in the wait. But again, in the wait, you are to prepare. You may not have the mate yet because you are not ready. It is not the season for that. So, in the waiting for your turn and your time. Don’t become frustrated in your waiting. PREPARE for your due season. Delayed is not denied, there is purpose in preparation. We don’t wear mink coats in the summer, nor do we wear shorts in a winter blizzard. Be patient, It’s on the way in your due season.

Elder-Elect Darlene Mingo-DuBois is a Certified Mindset Strategist and Host of Talking Kingdom and The Know Your Worth Network Darlene Mingo is a Certified Life & Purpose Coach, Transformational speaker, Licensed Educator & Cosmetologist, Licensed Minister, Kingdom Ambassador, Mentor and, CEO of “The W.O.E. Network” and “D. Mingo Hair Solutions”. For over 20 years she has made transforming women’s self- esteem a daily work of service. In 2016, she added to her experience and became a Certified Life/Purpose Coach through the P4 Coaching Institute. As a Stephens Minister and Cosmetologist, over many years she has been a confidant to many. Hearing, Counseling and personally understanding the areas of struggle for many women she now helps them to not only recognize their beauty on the outside, she walks with women during the process of discovering their true beauty WITHIN. Teaching how to awaken, discover and reunite with the powerful women that has been waiting for her big reveal and the POWER of who she really is.

MOMMA D’S STORY MIRACLE IN THE MAKING

My daughter and her

HI, my name is Sadiemae. Only

witnessed for myself what a

my family knows me by that

children

powerful and an awesome Man

name. Many people that know

Florence SC every Sunday for

of God he was, and that she

me, know that I love the Lord

church

services

believed God had positioned her

with all my heart. Second to God

served

is my family. A few years ago, I

Administration. Every Sunday

went through the most difficult

morning, she and the children

time in my life. But I thank the

were on the road for a two-and-

Lord each day because He

a-half-hour trip one way from

aﬀorded me the opportunity not

Charleston

only have my family, but I had a

services a few times with her

great church and a great pastor

while the church was still in

that never stopped laying on his

Summerville SC. I was heavily

face before the Lord on my

impacted at these services,

behalf. It all began in 1999 with

although the pastor was not

the death of my mother, Mable

there. Since establishing the

W. Williams. but for the sake of

ministry in Florence, he was

time, I will start with 2010.

between cites, and I would always

were

miss

traveling

where

the

SC.

Pastor

him.

she of

attended

But

daughter had told him, and upon first meeting him in 2009, I

there to serve. I grew up in church. All I’d ever known was church. So, when my daughter told me the ministry was moving to Florence, I prayed and asked God if this was this a move for myself as well. It took a while for to come to grips with the idea of relocating, but for the most part I knew I needed to move.

dilemma

was,

physically I had not been feeling well. But I knew I had to move and pressed my way. Now, the second part of this dilemma was, my husband. He was there, but

always on the go, and never around. He was not saved, but

After a couple of months, she

he always made sure the home

started

was taken care of. He would

sometimes during the week in

struggle sometimes, but he

addition to Sundays. She was

made sure that his family

helping to conduct the services

was provided for. By this time,

in both places and teaching

my daughter and the children

seminary classes in St. Stephens

had moved back home, while she

SC. I would travel with her every

was going through a divorce. So,

time she moved. This went on for

someone was always at home

a few months, and finally I’d

with me. You can imagine when

made up my mind to become a

she

ministry was

member of the church. One

moving, it became a struggle for

morning of that same week, I got

that

up and was feeling good. I

meant, no one would be at home

started getting busy around the

me at all.

house. Little later, I sat down on

said

the

emotionally.

Now

traveling

more,

the couch, and as I tried to get The

enemy

began

putting

thoughts in my mind. What if you get sick at night and no one’s here?

What

something

happens, and you are here alone? What if you need help,

up, I fell. It took a few minutes get up from the ﬂoor. I was a BIG girl and too heavy for my daughter to lift. The only thing I had to help me was a laundry basket.

who will be there? Well, after a

but had trouble standing and walking. I just knew that I’d had a stroke. My daughter helped me get dressed and got me into the van to transport me to the hospital. It was going to take too long for EMS, so she loaded me

few days of putting myself

Nevertheless, I was determined

into the van and headed for the

through this mental struggle, the

to get up from the ﬂoor.

hospital. As we pulled out of the

Lord spoke and said “GO”. “Go,

Somehow, the Lord gave me

yard, she made a phone call to

and become a part of the

enough strength to do so. It was

the pastor, telling him what had

ministry.” So, I began traveling

a struggle, but I was able to get

happened. I could hear him over

with her from Charleston to

back up to the couch. I needed to

the phone denouncing a stroke,

Florence.

go the bathroom. I made it there,

and began decreeing, and he was

declaring health and wellness. By

Shortly after this my daughter

the time we got to the hospital, I

came to and said “Mom, I am

As women, there are some things

was still not feeling my best, but

going

move

we don’t want our husbands to

I’d begun to feel so much better

to Florence.” She’d debated the

see or witness, but sometimes

than I’d been feeling. Now the

issue because she didn’t want to

they must. After all, our vows

Bishop did not know me that

leave me there alone. She was

include for better or worse, in

well, but he knew my spirit and

concerned that my husband was

sickness and in health…well one

knew my heart.

not going to properly care for me.

night my husband had to help me

have

get in the bed. Later that night I She

said,

“Mom

have

needed to go to the bathroom

We arrived at the hospital 15

to go, but I am not going to leave

minutes later and immediately,

you here.” She didn’t have to say

they began running tests. I already

it again. I was convinced when

told you that the Bishop and my

she told me that I needed to go

daughter together had begun

too. I just didn’t know how to tell

speaking, decreeing, and declaring

my husband, nor of what his

health and wellness as we were

reaction would be. I just knew the

leaving the house. The tests, every

enemy was angry because I’d

test they ran was negative for a

decided

stroke.

was

full member of this ministry. He

negative for any brain damage.

tried to stop me but failed. A few

There was no sign of stroke

weeks later I finally told my

anywhere in my body. A week

husband and surprisingly (ALL

later, although I couldn’t get

GOD) he was in total agreement

around very well, I was on the

with the move. His only question

road again, with my daughter

was when. We had three months

traveling to Florence. I was using a

to pack and relocate. We’d been

walking cane, but I was on the

preparing for this. My daughter

road. That Sunday, I joined the

had already begun packing up her

church and became a full member

things because she had to go

ahead of us. But it wasn’t over. I

I had been battling depression,

was still very sick.

sugar diabetes, ypertension, and

the

The

CAT

then,

Scan,

Restoration

Tabernacle Empowerment Center.

become

and he had to help me. At that time, I felt like the woman with the issue of blood. While in the bathroom I began bleeding. Clots were passing from my body uncontrollably. While I was trying to clean myself up, clots were hitting the ﬂoor and I couldn’t stop them. He saw this happening and ran to the other room for my daughter, who came in and took care of her mommy. This blew him away. I believe this was God’s way of getting his attention. He called for her “Nette, your mom needs you.” He stayed right there and didn’t leave, but couldn’t believe his eyes. I was so embarrassed.

now this. All my life I never had a

us all (my daughter included) fell

a month or so, until finally, the last

normal cycle like most women. I

through and now we were all

time

would go months without a cycle,

homeless. She was in a battered

they discovered a growth. They

then suddenly, here comes the

women’s transitional home with

found what appeared to be a cyst

blood. Three days later, nothing.

the children, and My husband and

on my left ovary. They didn’t seem

And now, here I am with this

I were in a nearby motel. She

to think it was an emergency at

uncontrollable ﬂow happening. I

would go everyday between the

that time.

was like a turtle trying to hide its

church, the home, taking care of

option of going back to Charleston

head inside of its shell.

I just

the children, and taking care of

or Columbia, SC for more tests.

began to talk to God. I began to cry

me. One night, I was feeling bad

My husband, son and daughter

to the Lord. One morning as I laid

again. I got up to go to the

spoke up and had me sent to

there awake, tears ﬂowing I heard

bathroom and fell again.

Charleston. After my exam, the

the Lord say, “I am purifying you. I cleansing you, and getting you ready for the work ahead. You are going to be just fine.” It’s a long story. When I was asked to tell my story, I was trying to figure out how to tell it in a few pages. Nevertheless,

this

was

the

beginning of what was to become a miracle in the making.

moved to Florence in February

moved into the motel with us. One night she was lying at the foot of my bed. I could see the hurt in her eyes, I could see her

doctor) delivered the news, that they had found a volleyball sized tumor that needed to be removed. Being in Florence was the difficult part.

transportation and getting back

was so hurt.

and forth to the doctor in

didn’t

have

our

own

Charleston, became increasingly Now prior to moving to Florence, been

seeing

the

doctor

Then suddenly things just seem to

the cane by this time, although I

be going crazy. On top pf

been lined up and put in place for

They gave me the

idea that I saw her that night. I

eating less. I was walking without

where we would live. What had

monthly for a diabetes check.

know where we are going, or

the

look on her face. She had no

sicker. I began sleeping more, and

purely of faith for us. We didn’t

watching me, and the worried

I’d

This move to Florence was one

went

doctor (who became my favorite Pretty soon she and the children

2011. I was getting sicker and

would have it nearby if needed.

everything else I couldn’t eat, I

difficult.

So, we scheduled

transport back and forth for appointments. By the time I was able to get back to the doctor the tumor had grown to the size of a basketball.

couldn’t take a bath. But the night I fell, Mike (my husband)

There was no going home this

called EMS. I went to the ER. Still,

time. I thank God for Angela

no stroke. They sent me back to

Rainey.

the doctor. This went on for about

specialist

She at

was the

intake Medical

University of South Carolina. She

such good care of me. Dr. Kohler,

and I am six years CANCER-

was truly an angel. She worked

removed the tumor, all the cancer,

FREE!!!!

with

made

the ovaries, and even my naval. I

sometime, I may need help every

transport possible. She saw to it

didn’t have to take a pill, nor do

once and a while because I have a

that no need went unmet. My

chemotherapy/radiation.

With

problem with balance, BUT I AM

daughter had me checked in at

one

completely

CANCER FREE!!!!! I could tell

MUSC in August 2011.

healed my body.

family,

and

What

surgery

God

should have been an eight-week recovery took eight months. You see, they discovered that I had two diﬀerent

types

cancer

simultaneously; endometrial and ovarian. My favorite doctor - Dr. Kohler performed the surgery. God blessed his hands. He blessed the anesthesiologist, He blessed the nurses and the staﬀ. They took

may

move

slow

you so much more, but I will save the rest for another time. I just

God told me before leaving Charleston, that morning in my bed while crying and talking to him, that I would be just fine. I had to go to my baby sister Barbara on St. Helena Island SC for eight months of solitude, rest, and recovery. Now, here it is 2017

HOPE’S STORY THE HAND OF GOD A STORY OF GUN VIOLENCE AND GOD’S PROTECTION

want to tell you ladies, there is no problem, big or small that God cannot and will not handle for you. My move, my life for the past eight years has been nothing, but one faith moves to another. With each step, God has been with me, and the BEST IS YET TO COME.

This is a painful story to tell,

HOPE’S STORY

but a testimony all the same. This is a story about the grace and mercy of God, the protection of God, and the

HOW THE HAND OF GOD SHIELDED HER FROM DEATH

love of God. Sometimes, He

for her to help settle her

As she turned around, this

will prove to us that He is God

stomach.

sudden look of terror crossed

and we are nothing without

Wendy’s on the way.

her face., which of course

Him. He will allow us to come

When we arrived, she was

gave a different point of view.

to a place or position where

sitting on the couch, but she

As she was looking at him, I

He is the only one that we can

was suspiciously nervous.

realized

all on, the only one who can

This was the night she was

transformed and no longer

save us.

going to meet his parents.

looked normal.

It was a normal day a work

She didn’t know what to

evil, sinister and satisfied, like

and I was feeling as I always

wear, nor what to expect. So,

an animal that had captured

felt, cranky and wanting to go

we went ahead and had

his prey.

home, the good thing was it

lunch, we tried to ease her

Then,

was lunch time and I was

mind while eating and helped

happened. He pulled out a

hungry. I was working at

to come up with some

9mm gun and pointed at this

Dillard’s Department Store in

solutions.

fragile young woman and

Charleston, South Carolina.

telephone

and

pulled the trigger. Over and

My co-worker’s girlfriend had

suddenly her front door

over, and over again, he just

visited my house the night

opened

kept shooting. The sound was

before, for the first time. We

someone I had never seen

deafening,

went to visit with her for

before. I thought maybe it

screams

lunch because she was at

was

not

disbelief. I watched this young

home and not feeling well.

knowing if she had one or

woman as her body slid slowly

So, we called her to tell her

not. Of course, I would have

down to the floor and curled

we were coming over. She

expected a female, but this

into a little ball as she tried to

asked us to pick up a sprite

was a guy. He came in the

protect

house, waved a smiled at us.

monster that had entered her

her

We stopped by

Right then the rang,

and

walked

roommate,

that

the

as of

herself

had

He looked

unthinkable

were terror

from

my and

this

home. It was of course no use

THE GUN JAMMED!!!

old woman was gone and our

as he shot the in the head.

He kept trying to pull the

live would forever be Changed.

My friend looked at the

trigger and nothing happened.

I believe that I was chosen to

human form of evil and

He then turned the gun on my

go through that experience for

begged “Please, don’t do

friend

nothing

a reason. To see what it was

this...don’t…” I didn’t know

happened. He looked down at

like to be with and without

that I was still screaming until

the gun discharged bullet,

God, the Lord’s grace and

the monster turned to me

cocked it, knelt in front of me,

mercy overshadowed me that

with the gun in hand, pointing

aimed the gun at his own head,

day.

it at my head. I was them

and looked into my eyes. IT

angels encamp themselves

quiet. He continued smiling as

was then that I saw the man

around us to protect us, so

he pulled the trigger over and

and not the monster. It was

that we or so that I may live to

repeatedly.

Quickly, as I

then I saw a tortured soul, lost,

fulfill his purpose and calling

stared into the barrel of the

scared, and aloe. For the first

for my life. He let me see

gun. Then, I began to pray.

time, I looked into the eyes of

desperation,

“Lord...am I ready? Lord, I’m

someone who died. Before he

and yes, death. He also let me

sorry; please save me…”

ever stepped foot into the

experience

home of this young woman he

darkness.

was already dead on the inside.

outside of that apartment I

He pulled the trigger that day

stepped into the light, love,

and took his own life.

grace, and comfort of my Lord

friend and I could not leave out

and Savior Jesus Christ, and his

the

Holy Spirit.

Those were the only words that formed in my mind. As my life flashed through my mind, I knew my father, my sister, and my nephew were going to have a hard time dealing with the tragedy of my death.

I began to think

that I would see my mother again, but God had other plans for me as you can seeHere is my testimony.

and

front

again,

door

since

collapsed in front of it.

He chose to have his

hopelessness,

life

after

the

When I stepped

“Yet a little while is the light

climbed through the bedroom

with you. Walk while ye have

window

the

the light, lest darkness come

apartment complex office to

upon you: for he that walketh

get help hoping that she was

still alive. We called the police.

wither he goeth.” John 12:35

and

ran

We knew deep down it was too late that the life of that 19-year

darkness

knoweth

not

HEAD -ON COLLISION SURVIVOR

EEvelyn Murray Drayton releases new book ,

Anything ’s Possible: The 47 -Day Prophecy (ISBN : 978 -1-943385 -00 -3 Sellers Publishing) Available on

www.EvelynDrayton.org , Amazon , Barnes and

Noble, and other online portals. Dr. Drayton speaks of her new hot off the press book,

Anything ’s

Possible: The 47 -Day Prophecy: "This book is the story of how I healed enough from a near -fatal head -on collision to go home after 47 days, the number 47 having been prophesied to me a few hours before the accident. During my 47 -day hospital stays, I spent much of it hoverin between life and death. I had a series of dreams, encounters, coincidences, and visitations that pointed out to me where the devil was trying to destroy my life and ministry. God helped me interpret those dreams, so I was able to joyfully strengthen my ministry. I was told that my ministry would change in 47 days. While healing, my joy erupted and changed me, which changed my ministry. My powerful story exemplifies how God can use our struggles to make us stronger believers in Christ. I am now a billboard advertising God's healing power. I am a

Evelyn Drayton ’s new song titled, TELL SOMEBODY A vailable on CDBaby , Amazon, and other music portals walking testimony!"

Evelyn ’s new inspirational song,

TELL SOMEBODY , gives

her testimony of challenges in life and how God heals, shields, saves, and forgives.

CONTACT: DR. EVELYN MURRAY DRAYTON

843 -546 -4057 draytonevelyn@yahoo.com www.EvelynDrayton.org Discover Dr. Drayton ’s EIGHT PUBLISHED BOOKS AND HER

INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC. She is available for speaking engagements, conferences, and workshops.

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. EVELYN MURRAY DRAYTON AUTHOR OF THE 47-DAY PROPHECY

What inspired the book? I think trials, tragedy and triumph inspired this book. But, seriously, I believe this book was inspired out of love. It seems while I was on my bed of affliction, God gave me a double dose of love. It seemed I loved prior to the accident; but, I never felt love like this before. My love for God’s people helped me to encourage others to believe that God is still healing and performing miracles in this world today. My testimonial writing creates a platform to share that God really does cause all things to work together for our good. I wrote this book to share my testimonies about the mighty power of God at work in people today, hoping, that others will be encouraged and inspired to share their testimonies. I wrote this book to persuade, educate, encourage and inspire others about love, forgiveness, healing, prophecy, and dreams. When we endure hardships that we live to talk

about, God can use us to help others increase their faith. Who is Evangelist Drayton? Please tell us a little about you the person. It seems I could just humbly say, “I am your sister in Christ who has suﬀered, endured some storms, and yet survived triumphantly”. But, I know ideally, I am supposed to say more. I hold an earned doctorate in Christian counseling with a mission to inspire and help equip others to reach their divine potential. I am a wife, mother of two sons, inspirational/Bible teacher, ordained minister of potential and possibilities, author of eight published books, and songwriter/recording artist who lives in Georgetown, South Carolina. I believe I am a bold woman of character and integrity. I am a survivor; a walking testimony. Having survived a 2013 near-death experience, I am now a

compelling advocate for spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical encouragement to help others overcome adversities and challenges in life. I focus on love, forgiveness, and healing. I believe that God can take our obstacles and create opportunities. I appear on various television shows and numerous live radio interviews. I am available for preaching engagements conferences, and workshops. The title Anything's Possible, would you please tell us about how you arrived at this title? It seems like this should be a short answer for this short question, but it’s not. One of my friends in Missouri had spoken to me several months prior to the accident and said my next book need to include the word “possible.” can help strengthen, encourage, and help increase faith. Readers can be encouraged in knowing that anything’s possible and they

can move beyond their scars into their purpose and destiny. weaned from the coma. After I returned home from the hospital, a friend called and asked me if I was angry with God for my calamity. I was able to honestly say, “Not at all; I love Him even the more.” I learned that I am now a walking billboard and I have moved beyond my scars. RB: What was it like for you, the healing process? Did you ever question, why or did you ever lose hope/faith? First, God used me to minister to others while on my bed of affliction and those experiences taught me that it’s not about me. Only God got the glory because I didn’t know I was ministering until the people told me. I could not take any credit or glory for what God had done. I am powerless in my own strength to deal with obstacles and challenges in life. I learned that I can pray for others and expect answered prayers, but must trust God for the results. I learned that God really does speak to me through my dreams as well as through the prophetic voices of other Christians. When I finally

realized I was injured after nearly three weeks on life support, I wondered what happened to me because I still don’t remember being in an accident. I didn’t realize my hip was broken until weeks after I had returned home and had gone for a doctor’s visit. Another friend (after the accident occurred), heard my compelling testimony and told me my next book need to include the number 47. Well, after much contemplation and suggestions, I arrived at the title which included words from both of my friends—ANYTHING’S POSSIBLE- THE 47 DAY PROPHECY. We read in the Bible, “but with God all things are possible” (Mathew 19:26). In this life, we will have to apply and bear witness to the truth of what the Word talks about in our own life. When I talked with my husband who told me the doctors said, “It doesn’t look good”; When I looked at my hospital records that indicate doctors had performed massive resuscitations on me; and when

I looked at the vehicle that I had to be cut from---I realized and bear witness that with God, ANYTHING’S POSSIBLE. Even though the driver of the other vehicle was fatally wounded, God allowed me to survive. While the book is loaded with lessons, I think the most important lesson for others to know without a doubt is that God is still performing miracles. People are hurting and are in dire need of strength to endure life’s challenges. My powerful story exemplifies how God can use our struggles to make us stronger believers in Christ. Being a survivor and an overcomer, I challenge others to trust God in the face of danger for there is hope during life’s storms. Anything’s Possible: The 47-Day Prophecy

Dr. Evelyn Drayton 876 Ford Village Road, Georgetown, SC 29440 Telephone: 843-546-4057 Draytonevelyn@yahoo.com www.EvelynDrayton.org

CHRISTAL’S STORY HOW I SURVIVED DIVORCE circumstance. (Proverbs 15:22) “Plans fail when there is no counsel, but with abundant advisers they are established.” You will need a Divorce Survival Kit! Secondly, it is imperative that communication takes place. The former spouse is critical if children are involved. When my former husband and I separated, our son was 7 years old. I had to find creative ways for my son to go through this “Till Death Do Us Part”-how many times have we heard that declaration, only to learn; after that it would be something else to cause two people to part.

transition without the bottom falling out. Weekend visits were not always easy but communicating with the child about the reality of what is taking place is critical. Staying

In 1998, I stood before an altar with every intention of

connected to your healthy relationships is also a

being true to the vows that I proclaimed. However, in

part of communication that should take place.

2010, I was before a judge waiting for him to sign off

Don’t adopt the I don’t want everybody in my

on a Divorce Decree. Divorce is a form of separation

business” attitude. Divorce is like pregnancy,

physically, emotionally, and financially. Because there

everyone will know after a while. When

is a loss, there is a period of bereavement and a

communicating

healing must take place. There are many causes of

becomes difficult, always remember that it is

divorce such as finances, third party involvement,

okay to seek professional help. The third thing

unresolved grief, and unforgiveness. This information

that you will need in you Survival Kit is a mirror.

is strictly from my personal experience and

I Corinthians 1:28a says “But let a man examine

perception. Please seek professional, legal, and

himself….” While going through my divorce, it

spiritual counsel as it pertains to your individual

was imperative that I fell in love with that person

with

the

former

spouse

who was looking back at me in the mirror. Amid the

parent, even when it’s difficult for you. Children

transitions, relocation, financial hardships, and he like,

don’t have to know anything. Be the model that

be sure to forgive yourself for your role in the demise

you child/children will respect.

of the marriage. It is never one person’s fault. Listen to Michael Jackson’s song “Man in the Mirror” a few times and

allow

the

lyrics

speak

you.

When I became separated from my former husband, I quickly

became

one-income

household.

quickly had to add a calculator to my Survival Kit. Everyone’s situation is diﬀerent, but most times, you will need to adjust your budget. I had to prioritize and tell myself during this season of separation and ultimately divorce that (1) “You are not in the business of keeping up with the Joneses or proving anything to anyone. (2) “You must spend less than you make.” (3) Accept help when it is oﬀered without shame or regret. (4) Set a budget and adhere to it.

Finally, be sure to pact the “No Guilt” pillow, The healthier and happier you are, the better oﬀ your child/children will be (and you). An occasional night out, while going through or after your divorce is ok. Adults need healthy, happy, safe and fun relationships in life with other adults. (1) Use caution when bringing others around your children. (2) Use caution when bringing strangers into your home. (3) Do not feel pressured to marry quickly, but allow your heart to be open again. Allow your heart to love again. The guilt, the shame, the rumors, the assumptions and the sadness that comes with divorce can be very difficult, as it is. When coupled with the fact that you are a

The fifth item that was important for my Survival

leader in the Lord’s church, it makes it even

Kit, was Model Clay. The world is watching you to

the ore difficult. Because it is a sensitive subject,

see how you will react in certain situations. (I Timothy,

people in the church do not know how to

4:12), Paul says to “be an example to the believers.” In

approach it nor you Most times, people around

heated discussions, make sure the children are not

you do not say anything and sometimes distance

present. There is an old southern adage that says.

themselves from you.

“Little rabbits have big ears.” Speak well of the absent

[Grab your reader’s attention with a great quote from the document or use this space I survived separation andTo divorce because to emphasize a key point. place this text of my Theon the Word and my box faith, anywhere page,ofjustGod drag it.]

relationship with Him. True friends survive divorce with you. I have no regret for the journey that the Lord allowed me to take to be in “this place” where I am today. God’s timing is perfect and when the time was right, He sent me someone to love again. During the separation and divorce period, my focus was on parenting, learning to trust God through the process and ensuring that my spiritual, mental, and physical health was intact. You can survive divorce. I did

FROM THE HEART WITH THE GRIEF NETWORK Grief is something that we all must come face-to-face with. It is something that knows no boundaries, it is involved in all significant changes, losses, and life transitions, not just in the death of a loved one. Every life event encounters some loss and therefore, grieving. All too often, we try to go through this process alone. Although we all grieve differently, we still

grieve

nonetheless.

unfinished, “grief

Left a

It is a process that many of us

one’s

fail to go through. We try to

creative juices. The longer the

skip it. We say we’re moving

healing is delayed, the costlier

on, or moving forward, when

the protracted grief is to the

we are just delaying the

person’s wholeness.”

inevitable. The most difficult

believe that the pain will go

step in this process, is often,

away and to some extent it

the

does. But grief is a process. It

Sometimes turning to other

is not a day, or week, or

avenues to ease the pain, tend

months filled with activities

to lead to destructive patterns

heavy

toll,

takes

surrounding the actual event.

sapping

first

step

take.

in our lives, if we are not

worst of times He continues to

careful.

Healthy recovery

provide solace for us. For in his

husband would have been like.

takes time and patience. In

written Word is all the comfort

These are the thought that

1984 and 1985 my family had a

we need I every situation.

helped the grieving process to

series of deaths to occur. We

Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are

pass in a healthy way, although

conducted

those who mourn, for they

it didn’t begin that way. Not

funerals of very close family

shall

everyone

members,

Corinthians 1:4 NEB) tells us

sweetly.

included.

He comforts us in all our

May people have had so

During that time, I lost my job

troubles, so that we in turn

much difficulty with the actual

and took a leave of absence

may be able to comfort others

grief itself that they have

from my graduate studies to

in any troubles, so that we in

turned to drugs, or alcohol.

help my mother in putting the

turn may be able to comfort

Some have adopted a death

pieces back together. For a

others in any troubles of

wish

while

theirs.”

March 22, 2016

destructive habits, some to

counselor, pastor, a financial

marked 31 years since my

the extreme of committing

planner,

all-around

grandfather died. Growing up

suicide even. Grief can be so

backbone. It seemed as if no

under his wing, as he studied

intense that t can consume

one was concerned about me.

Scripture in preparation for a

you if allowed to.

The questions were always,

sermon, watching as he taught

following chart lists the five

“How’s your son?” How’s your

my brother to grow his own

tasks of the grieving process

mom?” Very rarely did anyone

vegetable garden, the time he

and the types of help that to

ask me how are you, if at all. If

jumped out of a car while

aid in the completion of each

it had not been for prayer,

teaching my mother to dive,

task of healthy grieving. It is

fasting,

completely

and even the time he was

important to remember that

immersing myself into the

dragged by my pony because

each person grieves different

written Word of God, I would

his foot had gotten caught in

-ly. These steps will help, not

not have been able to survive.

the reigns are all memories

substitute for prayer, and the

It is important to remember

that I will cherish.

I often

seeking o the Lord’s grace for

that “God will never leave us,

wonder what the relationship

this place in life. In a Christian

nor forsake us.” And in the

between he and my children,

community

about

one

grandmothers,

was

the

and

seven

the

family

comforted.”

between

can

and

grieve

engaging

such

The

the

Church, the grief process is

as I remember hum I will

recovery. Remember, grief is

one that is best served when

remember the day he died. I

not the end of life. Whatever

the entire community lends a

will always know life with him,

the loss may be, there is a

hand

and

REBIRTH on the horizon.

facilitating

the

life

without

him.

healing. I was 15 years-old

Nevertheless, I now can help

when my grandfather died,

others in dealing with their

even now at 48, I still get

losses due to having lost so

emotional and teary eyed as

much that was dear to me. A

the anniversary of his death

local church body and a caring

approaches, because as long

pastor

are

key

your

From the Heart provided by The Grief Network-We are here to Help You

SCHRENDRIA’S STORY THE CORPORAE BUSINESS WOMAN traction. I don’t like posting when I’m away from home or when I’m facilitating training or speaking, but I realize that perception is reality. When people look on social media and see that you are all over the place speaking, presenting, consulting then I’ve never heard anyone say to my husband, “I

they begin to inquire. Slowly but surely, I got more

almost called you for a project or to bid on a

calls and emails from new clients. Let’s put a pin

contract, but I know you have your hands full with

there. I’ve been very fortunate to have some long-

the children.”

term clients. Clear Vision started in 2006 as a fulltime Seminars and Consulting Company and there

It seemed as if I constantly heard these words from clients, or potential clients after I had twins Caleb and Kyle, giving us a total of three boys, at that time, under three-year-old. “Oh, we thought about asking you to speak at our conference, but we knew

are a few clients who have been with us since the beginning and continue to provide a steady ﬂow of work. Although we don’t have all our eggs in one basket, it’s imperative to continue to grow and diversify.

you had your hands full.” Every time I heard those comments I became more and more outraged. Initially I could not believe my ears, then it became the norm. I became numb to such comments and realized it was time to strengthen my brand and let the world know that this “mompreneur” was ready for business.

Despite my company doing well, I felt the urge to broaden my base! One thing any business owner will tell you is that you cannot remain stagnant. Thus, in the past year we have launched Robinson Coaches-a business and lifestyle coaching brand. We have coached clients for years, but never marketed it as such. We are proud to have helped

I found that social media was a great place to gain

numerous individuals and couples via our coaching services. Check US out the following website at RobinsonCoaches.Com

Additionally, I’ve become a licensed facilitator with

can serve as a passionate President. Don’t allow

the International Institute for Restorative Practices

the overuse of the word “emotional” as it pertains

to implement Introduction to Restorative Practice

to women in leadership keep you from following

and Restorative Circles training. I’m elated to

your woman’s intuition. I’ve never heard a male

bring this work to school districts, non-profit

referred to as emotional in the workplace, but it’s

organizations, and municipalities in the South

used often about women. Be Unapologetically

Eastern United States.

You!!

I’ve partnered with a veteran facilitator of this work

OUTSOURCE: As women, we have a reputation of

and we will begin offering monthly trainings

trying to do it all, because we can do so many things

November 2016.

well. However, in the business world we will go

For more information visit:

IIRP.ed.

further, faster if we allow other experts to help us.

There are millions of female owned businesses in

Just because we can build a website doesn’t mean

American, but there are millions more who desire

that we should. Focus on what you do best, and let

to start a business. Being in business in not easy,

others do what they do best.

but it’s very attainable. Here are a few tips for

CREATE PARTNERSHIPS: Generally, speaking as

running a successful company.

woman owned, we have created and grown the

NEVER

APOLOGIZE:

Oftentimes,

female

entrepreneurs apologize for being their authentic selves. You can serve as a compassionate CEO. You

brand. We often call it, “our baby.” And who wants to share a baby? We can go further in business if we partner with others, but because of trust issues or insecurities we find it difficult to partner.

Schrendria F. Robinson is the President of Clear Vision Seminars & Consulting a firm specializing in motivational speaking, professional development and strategic planning. To learn more, visit the website at: ClearVisionSC.Com

THE STORY OF THE BUTTERFLY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR &EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. VANESSA WILLIAMS-COOK II Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in

by God.

Christ, he is a new creature: old things are

For many years the story of the butterfly has been

passed away; behold, all things are become new.

one of fascination for me. One day as I sat watching

When embarking upon transformation and

a beautiful red, purple and orange butterfly

transitions in life, we will encounter change. For

fluttering on my balcony, I was awed at its beauty. I

many people, change is one of the most difficult

began then studying the life cycle of butterflies. The

experiences in life. We become accustomed to

story of its transformation is the most descriptive

what has become our norm. We have been a

way I can explain the process of rebirth.

certain, or in a certain state for so long, that the

The story usually begins with a very hungry

thought of change is a scary place and often met

caterpillar hatching from an egg. The caterpillar, or

with resistance. But then thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s then inevitable

what is more scientifically termed a larva, stuffs

change that comes without our even noticing.

itself with leaves, growing plumper and longer

There comes a time in life when change comes as

through a series of molts in which it sheds its skin.

a part of the natural order of things, as designed

One day, the caterpillar stops eating, hangs upside

another process called transformation. What does it mean to transform? As a verb, the word

transform means to make a thorough or dramatic change in the form, appearance, or character; to transform implies a major change in form, nature or function. Other words that can be used to describe this change are metamorphose, or convert. All these words in their proper context mean the same thing. What once was is no more, now it is NEW. First, the caterpillar digests itself, releasing enzymes to dissolve all its tissues. If you were to cut open a cocoon or chrysalis at just the right time, caterpillar soup would ooze out. Like the human, we too before salvation, were lost in sin, dying in our own filth.

down from a twig or leaf and spins itself a silky cocoon or molts into a shiny chrysalis. Within its protective casing, the caterpillar radically transforms its body, eventually emerging as a butterfly or moth. How does this apply to human transformation and rebirth? What does that radical transformation entail? How does a caterpillar rearrange itself into a butterfly? What happens inside a chrysalis or cocoon? Before salvation, we spend years discovering who we are. We go from the stage of being a fetus, to an infant that is completely dependent upon our mothers for life itself. As we grow and develop we begin to walk, talk and eventually we are now able to begin the educational process. This takes what seems like a lifetime. We are ever learning, ever evolving, ever discovering who we are. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until we come face-to-face with God that our true purpose in life is revealed. It is here that we begin

We were caught up in our own thinking, doing things our own way, because we could. Many times, making decision without wise counsel, going about our daily live in darkness, in confusion, in chaos, and removed from God. It was in this state that although we seemed to be far away from God, He wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t far away from us. For it was inside this cocoon that we built for ourselves, that God entered the process of transformation. But the contents of the pupa are not entirely an amorphous mess. God take the mess weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve wrapped ourselves in and cleanses us by the washing of the Blood of Jesus. It is by the blood that all unrighteousness is washed away. It is here that we are purified. We go through this process until God is ready for us to come forth as a NEW CREATURE. When we emerge from this cocoon, a dramatic change has taken place. WE look different, we talk different, we walk different, we even smell different. Sin and filth have a stench. But once we go through the washing of the blood, the washing of the word (and the process never ends) we take on the fragrance of God. Now we can go into the presence of the Lord beyond the veil, and meet with Him and He with us.

Just like the butterfly we emerge beautiful and radiant, with vibrant colors, and filled with freedom. For any man that be in Christ is free. If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed (John 8:36).

BE FREE MY DAUGHTER AND WALK CONINTUALLY IN THAT FREEDOM Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Galatians 5:1