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departments Founder and Editorial Director Verna V. Nickelberry Editor-In-Chief Sharon Locklear Art Director Rushun Wiseman https://creavolutionarts.com Contributing Writers Vanderbilt Brabson Jeanette Chestnut-Chester Teresa Jordan Paola Tennon Photographers Kimberly Taylor Kendall Elem ‘Advertise With Us� Please Contact Us At (770) 767-0649 O.P. Magazine Mail P.O. Box #19699 Atlanta, GA 30327 (770) 767-0649 http://ordinarypeoplemagazine ORDINARY PEOPLE MAGAZINE is a quarterly publication and is distributed in Atlanta, GA, Memphis, TN; K noxville, TN; Matteson, IL.
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contents FALL 2020
08
ON THE COVER Mr. David Rogers
11 JUST TO ENCOURAGE YOU 14 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sharon E. Locklear
Jeanette Chestnut-Chester
18
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
24
FOR YOUR HEALTH
Jacquie McIver
“Lean on Your Faith and Choose Hope Instead of Fear”
32
STYLE CONFIDENT Courtney Robinson
34
MIND YOUR MONEY
36
MIRACLES AND BLESSINGS
DeLayna Michele Elliott
How I Became the “The Miracle Man”
40 44 CONSIDER THIS 48 SMALL BUSINESS CORNER 51 INSPIRATIONAL WORDS 53 FROM WITHIN... GOSPEL ARTISTS
Angie Greene Gray
Dialogue With An Atheist
Psalm 136
Verna V. Nickelberry
All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole or in part without the founder/editor’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the editor. The publication of any advertisement in the issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by the publication. © 2020 Ordinary People Magazine VeMaShe’ Enterprise LLC
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ordinarypeoplemagazine | 7
On The Cover
ON THE C OVER COVER INFORMATION
8 | Fall 2020
“Bro. Rogers, do you have a prayer request today?” the daily prayer connection asked. As I listed my petitions to God I would always end with “And Pray for my retirement.” Although I had no foreseen indications as to what was about to happen in my life, God knew. After 31 years of employment and service to the United States Postal Service retirement would be a dream come true. After all those years of getting up early for 12-hour days of conference calls, data analysis, and employee management, I still felt youthful, and looked forward to long life with my wife and family—filled with travel excursions. Thankfully, that career afforded me the privilege of providing for my family, but I knew that the time for “the next thing” was drawing near; still my prayer was for continued provision and good health. My formative years with the Postal Service began after proudly serving our country in the Marine Corps. The Marine Corps emboldened the discipline and work ethic towards a successful career. In spite of the long hours, and many challenges of the job, I was glad to do it; because it addressed my highest responsibility, which was proper provision for my family. In all of my years of employment, I was blessed to almost never take a sick day. Not colds, the flu, neither aches nor pains kept me from going to work. My children nicknamed me “Mr. Unbreakable,” because was never sick. I was determined to finish my course. Life was good, but things were about to change. I retired in February, 2017, but Thanksgiving of that same year is not a memory, but a blur. I recall starting to feel unstable and listless that day, yet I gave some assistance with the food preparation. Our son had come home for the holiday; he smoked the turkey. I’m sure we had all the trimmings and then some— i.e. collard greens, macaroni and cheese, fried corn, broccoli casserole, butter peas, dressing, ham (as a second meat), pistachio pudding, cranberry sauce, and desserts. After blessing the food, which I so anxiously look forward to each year, I took one bit and said, “I need to lie down.” I left the table, laid on the couch a few minutes and went straight to bed for the day. The following day, which was Friday, we left early for the hospital because I was feeling lethargic and lifeless; this was very unusual for me—I’m “Mr. Unbreakable,” remember? Regardless of the nickname, I felt broken. As it has been said, “my get up and go had gotten up and gone.” Because I was experiencing pains in my chest and back I was admitted to the ordinarypeoplemagazine | 9
emergency room immediately as a precautionary in case of a heart attack. No heart attack was assessed, but one of the tests in particular pointed to kidney failure. I was admitted for additional analysis. Two days later the diagnosis given was Multiple Myeloma Cancer, stage 3. I am not an emotional person, so I took the news in stride. That hospital advised us to start treatment immediately, but my wife and I wanted time to pray for confirmation of the diagnosis, guidance and healing. Our children, and family were shaken, but their faith in God was strong. We have known relatives and friends alike who had taken this journey alone by keeping it a secret. We remember feeling like bystanders who had not been allowed to join in the fight. So my resolve from day one was that WE WOULD NOT KEEP THIS CANCER FIGHT A SECRET! The Lord encourages believers to have the spirit of agreement with others by “touching and agreeing” (see Matthew 18:19 NIV). God promises victory through agreement. We told our immediate family, our close friends, Pastor and church. They all walked closely by our side. But our prayer warriors—true intercessors—rolled up their sleeves, got on their knees and stayed there citing only one request: “Keep us posted!” I am very, very, grateful to and for them. After going through various forms of treatment, including chemotherapy, many well versed medical professionals, and MUCH PRAYER, I received my last treatment October 31, 2019. I am happy to report that God still heals, because He has healed me. To God be the Glory! “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5 KJV
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Letters to the Editor
Letters to the
EDITOR What a great cover of Pastor Bartholomew Orr and his beautiful wife Valarie Orr. - Janice Awesome cover! Pastor Bartholomew and Valarie Orr, is such a wonderful couple. - J.M. Great article Her Fashion / His Style. I’ve enjoyed reading about all of the couples that has been featured. - Kim Great story about Will and Katie Bogg - Unknown
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 11
Editor-in-Chief
As 2020 Ends BY SHARON E. LOCKLEAR, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardship, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV
Two thousand twenty is ending. This year has been different from any year in the world’s history. A global pandemic has killed 1.5 million people worldwide. Black men and women have been murdered in their homes and on the streets of the United States with impunity. Children have been separated from their families and forced to live in squalor because they sought a better country to live in, their hope for the American dream resulted in an American nightmare. The weather has been erratic, numerous hurricanes, fires, unseasonably warm weather in locations that are not usually warm.
homes, there are parents who don’t know where the next meal will come from to feed their children. Many parents are educating children at home and realizing they don’t have the capacity to teach. People are working virtually and suffering mental anguish for lack of human interaction. We are WEAK and grace is sufficient for each of us. It is time for us to accept and admit our weakness and allow Christ’s power to rest upon and in us. We are not capable of defending against the battles that rage around us. Once we admit our weakness, we can be made strong through Christ Jesus.
Two thousand twenty has been a year for insults, persecutions and difficulties. Insults have been personal and come from expected and unexpected sources. Religious, racial and ethnic persecutions have been experienced individually and collectively. This has been an unprecedented year for difficulties.
Life as we thought we knew it has changed. We must be flexible and change; however, our faith and trust must remain rooted in the Almighty because that is our strength. As time has shown repeatedly for those who believe, there is nothing too hard for God.
We are humans and exceedingly weak in a vast universe. We have no power or control over anything. Two thousand twenty has shown us our frailties, millions are living with and in hardship, there are families who have no idea how they will remain in their
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As you begin to reflect on this year and consider intentions for 2021, remember, that you are strong in your weakness. Sharon Locklear
He Wrote The Script... God said to Jeremiah, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee.” The same goes for all of you. God has an assignment for each of you, and it is me for you to accept it. If you are ready to consent to your calling and learn how to become an entrepreneur in the field you are passionate about, read He Wrote the Script...Just Follow It!
PURCHASE ON AMAZON
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P U R C H A S E O N PAY PA L
Overview of Book In this engaging and interactive guide, entrepreneur Verna Nickelberry provides key tips and strategies, along with relatable biblical principles, to guide you through the essential aspects of business: creation, communication, and collaboration. With spaces for reflection, and a planner to help you organize goals, events, and opportunities, you will move further along your path to entrepreneurship. Hold God’s vision for you above any doubt, fear, or hesitation. The journey can be long and scary, but if you set credible, manageable goals for your success and allow God’s voice to guide you, you can break down the walls of negativity to build up your confidence and build up your business.
About the Author Ms. Nickelberry is the Founder and Editorial Director of Ordinary People Magazine (OPM) an inspirational magazine that showcase the stories and efforts of communities and charities. Ms. Nickelberry continuously serves others through sharing her confident spirit and the word of God. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, sewing, crocheting, and writing. Ms. Nickelberry currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia
Just to Encourage
JUST TO ENC OURAGE YOU BY JEANETTE CHESTNUT-CHESTER, WORSHIP LEADER, CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER
What if God was the kind of God that allowed you to do whatever you pleased, without any consequences or penalties? What kind of world would we have if we all just gave in to whatever we felt? What would happen is we all followed our own minds and never consulted God? The fact of the matter is that that’s exactly what we do. We answer for ourselves, and make ungodly decisions for our own comfort. We neglect to consult our Wonderful Counselor on how, when, what, where and who. We make God our last resource. God has clearly said to us that He is I AM. This means that God is the Eternal One,
14 | Fall 2020
uncaused and independent of needing help from anyone. He the One with all the answers to all the questions. Why then do we only go to Him last? The Bible says clearly in Matthew 6:33, that we are to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This means that we are to desire God’s righteous rule in the earth and in our lives. God, Elohim ḥayyim, is the Living God! The one Who was, Who is and Who is to come, is the One with all power, all knowledge and He is all sufficient.
With that being said, why would we ever follow our own way? Why would we ever listen to any other council without consulting our Great God? We shouldn’t. However, we do. In the Book of Ezekiel, let’s look at Chapter 20; Israel is in captivity, actually this is the beginning of the captivity, and the Lord God has promised that even though they are in captivity, He is still watching over, carrying for and providing all that is needed to preserve them. However, there were some elders that wanted to inquire or question the Prophet Ezekiel and obtain answers from the Lord. Ezekiel, which means “God is Strong, was a prophetic voice in the midst of idolatry and dismal doings. He was still reminding Israel that God is Strong on their behalf. Yes, they were in captivity, and yes it was their own disobedience that caused their situation, but still God did not abandon them. God made sure that His presence and message was still being spoken even in the most trying times. Ezekiel was charged with reminding the exiles of their sins, and to encourage them of God’s future blessings. He was to assure Israel that even in exile, God was still looking out for them. He was to speak what the Lord said, letting the people know that if they abandoned their wicked ways, God would not destroy them. His job was to warn the righteous, if they stopped be righteous, and follow after the ways to the Babylonians, that He (God) would surely destroy them. God is indeed the God of Mercy and Grace, nonetheless He is also the God that honors His name above all.
After the hurt, the mistrust, the dishonor and the casting aside of their God, Yahweh, after no repentance, nor any sorrowful acts of humility, their desire is to come before the Lord to inquire. Or the ask questions as if they had rights to the ear of God. Not so says the Lord! The Lord’s reply to this was to say that He would not be questioned by them. This was Israel! The one God loved, chose and vowed to preserve forever. This was Israel that has profaned the name of the King of Glory. This was Israel that performed abominations in the temple of God, the elders among the people setting an example of sin and idolatry. The women also were there, weeping over and worshipping the idol of the Babylonians called Tammuz as the god of fertility embodying the powers for new life in nature in the spring. They turned their backs on the Living God, and went a whoring after other gods. They began to settle into a routine that was contrary to the precepts of God. We are well aware that God is a jealous God, He will not share His glory with another. We are reminded just as Israel was reminded that they and we are to have no other god before our God. This was blatantly ignored by Israel. I suppose it was easier to conform than to remain steadfast.
“Can you imagine being a righteous voice in the midst of all this sin and rebellion? Can you imagine having to speak truth to power in this din of mistrust and rising dishonor of the Creator? ”
Israel, God’s chosen people had dishonored His great name. They adopted the ways of their captives and began to worship idols. They were not sorrowful nor repentant. So, as we look at vs. 3 in chapter 20 of the Book of Ezekiel, the elders believe they have a right to inquire of the Lord.
So, what right did the elders have to come and inquire of God? In verse 3 of Chapter 20, we see God’s response to this inquiring. Speaking through the Prophet Ezekiel God’s instructions are: “Son of man, speak to the elders of Israel and say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Have you come to inquire of me? As surely as I live, I will not let you inquire of me, declares the Sovereign Lord.’ God is saying that the elders had forfeited any right to ask Him anything due to the sins of their fathers and themselves. He was not punishing them because of the sins of their ordinarypeoplemagazine | 15
fathers, for God has stated that every man is responsible for his own sin. They failed to heed the word of the prophet and learn from the history and events that caused them to be in exile in the first place. Therefore, repeating the idolatrous ways of those before them. Can you imagine being a righteous voice in the midst of all this sin and rebellion? Can you imagine having to speak truth to power in this din of mistrust and rising dishonor of the Creator? Ezekiel had his work ahead of him, but again his name means “God is Strong”. God went on to say that He was not willing to be inquired of by the elders, they were not repentant, they understood nothing. They believed that God had deserted them, even in the midst of wanting to inquire, I don’t believe that they trusted the assurance the He would have given them. God knows our every thought, and He was not pleased with Israel. They trusted the voice of the people, followed after the people and began to live and behave like the people. But let me encourage you with this; God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? (Numbers 23:19) KJV
16 | Fall 2020
Ezekiel 20:5, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: On the day I chose Israel, I swore with uplifted hand to the descendants of Jacob and revealed myself to them in Egypt. With uplifted hand I said to them, “I am the Lord your God.” God said that He chose Israel, they were chosen as a sovereign selection for God’s eternal temporal purposes. The statement “with uplifted hand” signifies that God made an unconditional vow that He is determined to maintain His promises. So be encouraged to walk in the way of the Lord, maintain integrity, live a life that is pleasing to the Lord and we can come to Him in great assurance that we can inquire of Him, we can ascend to the hill of the Lord, knowing that we have not lifted up our souls to idols, we can stand in His Holy place with pure hearts, we can lift up clean hands unto Him, and bless His name. And the result is that we shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of our salvation. Be Encouraged…
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In The Spotlight
JACQUIE
MCIVER
FOUNDER OF “JEREMIAH’S VOICE” BY WILL ODOM As a single parent and caregiver of a child diagnosed with Cerebra Palsy, Autism, IDD, and a host of other medical challenges, I have searched and prayed for a way to help others who face the same daily challenged that I face. Establishing this organization, “Jeremiah’s Voice,” grew out of that vision and search. Part of my search has meant looking for and embracing the meaning and purpose in my child’s life. What I have learned along the way is that loving my child has also meant learning to embrace my child’s disabilities in such a way that I am still able to refuse to allow him
18 | Fall 2020
to be defined by his disabilities. Children diagnosed with disabling conditions can and do live and thrive beyond their disabilities and find significant meaning in life. Since we, enlarge part, drive the direction and continuity of our children’s care and even their right to live with purpose and dignity, it is key that we always have the right resources, support, and encouragement at our disposal. Let me tell you a little about my handsome little boy named Jeremiah, for whom I named this organization. I’ve already shared with you
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 19
the medical diagnoses my son received after his birth. Now, let me share with you how this little boy has changed my life for the better.
appropriate level, his ability to speak grows stronger with each new day, and his smile positively changes everyone’s day.
Any mother or primary caregiver can relate to the tremendous sacrifice required to raise a child, but when raising that child includes coping with the major life disabilities which hamper their ability to run, laugh, speak, or even eat, the feeling of not being able to fix what is wrong with them can be over whelming. This was what I faced when my one pound, 15 ounce Jeremiah was born and given only 24 hours to live. I learned, at that very moment, that I needed to learn on something or someone greater than myself. When I asked God to let my son live, I had no idea what was in store for him or how life was going to proceed for me as his mother.
I am glad that, in your search for hope, faith, and grace to navigate the challenging journey of loving and raising a special needs child, you have found Jeremiah’s Voice! It is important to connect to a community and followship of other people who are like-minded and who believe that all things are possible is you have hope.
Doctors gave me the early childhood prognosis that Jeremiah would likely not walk or talk and that he would have significant developmental delays. I found out some key things about myself in the process of having to still myself against the dire medical reports that have been on going. As I have steadfastly and as a woman of faith, stood on my belief in God’s ability to do the impossible, and without losing hope, my Jeremiah is currently reading at an age-
20 | Fall 2020
As a community of parents and caregivers, we invite you to join us in our fight for advocacy and equal access and opportunity for our children. We believe that it is imperative that each person has a voice, so their needs are met and so people see their value and worth for who they are as people. We believe that children with special needs should not-and need not-be defined by their abilities; instead, they should be given every opportunity to live life to it fullest! This is what invokes the motto for the organization – “Living Beyond Disability” https://jeremiahsvoice.org/jv_who.html
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OPM Live! with Verna V. Nickelberry Stream live every Saturday at 12:00 p.m. (noon) EST www.facebook.com/omplive1 and YouTube OPM Live! w/Verna V. Nickelberry
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AN AB UNDANCE OF C ORRE CT I V E O P P O RTUN I T I E S F O R VALI DATING AND INSPIRATI O N DA I LY ( PA RT O N E ) BY LATOYA R. “DR. JAY” JEFFERSON-JAMES Have you ever received an address to an event, looked at it, and said to yourself, “I know that area. I don’t need my GPS”? Then, have you gotten into your car full of know-it-all pride, decided to leave your GPS off, and found yourself lost? And I am not talking about a little lost when you were on a side street of a major artery. I am talking about lost-lost when nothing looks familiar! You had to give up that pride, pull over, and turn on that GPS. You type in the address and just when you have hope, the stupid thing starts to buffer! Isn’t that just the worst feeling? Do you know why any Electronic Global Positioning System buffers like that? No matter how simple or sophisticated that system may be, in order for it to tell you where to go, it must first find out what direction you are coming from. So, it is with our personal, collective, and national histories. In order
24 | Fall 2020
to know where we are going, we must first know who and where we have been. But here’s the problem within respective African American communities: for the past forty years, we have been lulled into thinking that our histories – personal, collective, and national – in America, are just not important. As an African American Studies/Literature professor, I cannot tell you how many of our students tell me, “that’s old” in a dismissive tone when I make a reference to something that happened in popular culture just twenty years ago. As a community member, I cannot tell you how many elders tell me that references to slavery, share cropping, and Jim Crow are long lists of nightmarish victimization that retraumatize our children every time that I expose them to it “down at that school.” I should be teaching them more technology and business things, they say. These are the “correct” tools that our young
people need for future success – not cotton picking, maids, butlers, mammies, and slaves. With our meteoric advances in technology and the explosive rise to socio-economic success for some of us, I can see how we arrived at the aforementioned conclusions. African Americans have more now than we have ever had collectively. We have gone further than our ancestors ever thought we ever could. Stony the roads they trod and it seemed for us a new day we have won. Even our theology reflects that. Our collective spiritual life, for the past 20 years at least, can be boiled down and reduced to two sermons: “Name and claim,” and “Too blessed to be stressed.” Our gospel songs no longer talk to us of long-suffering and weeping may enduring through the night, but joy cometh in the morning. I remember playing what I thought was an uplifting song at a job. It was a traditional number by Rev. James Cleveland, “This Too Shall Pass.” My coworkers almost laughed me out of the building, asking, “Where did you come from with my grandmomma’s music?” Yes, 2020 has been a most difficult year. We are still in the middle of a pandemic, we have had to learn how to learn on our own. Some of us have gained a new respect for teachers as we have been forced to teach at home for the first time. We have seen wildfires ravage the West Coast and so many storms batter the sunny Southland that they ran out of alphabets. We saw record numbers turn out in a hotly contested Presidential election with a run-off in Georgia. Yet, you sit, hopefully in the comfort of your own home, reading this article. And that, dear reader, is the magic of “Grandmomma’s music.” In spite of all of the storms that rage around us, there was a calmness to grandmother, who could sit in her chair with her hands folded across her belly. She sat with her peace still, because she knew, “this too, shall pass.” Our young people need this kind of reassurance. Now is the time to remind them that “name and claim” did not bring us through the storms of life. “Grandmomma’s music did. But here’s the rub? How are the young people supposed to be inspired if they do not know what storms we have endured? How are their psychological global positioning systems supposed to locate them and point them in the right directions if our young people are not properly grounded and rooted?
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ABRAHAM CLOUD HIGH-PRIEST MELCHISEDEC SLOTHFUL 26 | Fall 2020
BOLDNESS FAITH HYSSOP PHARAOH SUNDRY
CHRIST FOOTSTOOL MAJESTY SHEWBREAD TIMOTHY
“Guys…this is Missile Morgan” Seeking to overcome the scars from her abusive, alcoholic father, Jesse Cartwright, Anthony’s best friend from childhood, is determined to make something of her life. Tomboyish in every way, at times her stubbornness puts her in direct conflict with Anthony’s other friends. A born fighter, she ultimately proves to be tougher than every boy in the neighborhood and the only friend Anthony can really count on. As Anthony battles his inner demons in his march toward glory, and Jesse struggles through her own personal tragedies and loss, their paths grow apart. Eventually the two dis- cover their lives are somehow intertwined and neither will truly realize his or her dreams without the other. Surpassing the expectations his father had for him, Anthony Morgan is poised to be the biggest phenomenon baseball has seen in years. Anthony’s future is set. He has worked hard for it, dreamed about it all his life, and can practically taste it! However, what Anthony could not foresee was the untimely death of his father—his mentor and hero. This tragedy started a downward spiral of bad decisions, which ultimately threaten Anthony’s life and future in baseball. Beyond the Lies is as captivating as The Natural, as compelling as Love Comes Softly, and at times as humorous as Diary of a Mad Black Woman. It’s a coming of age story that will appeal to the young and old, the sports enthusiast, the romantic, those gripped by human tragedy, and those who celebrate the triumph of the human spirit. Author Mr. Vanderbilt Brabson, III https://beyondthelies-theboo.com https://www.amazon.cm/Vanderbilt-Brabson-III/e/ B004DWVNW?ref=dbs_p_pbk_r00_abau_000000 See the book Trailer at https://www.vanderbiltbrabsoniii.com
For Your Health
LE AN ON YO UR FA I TH a nd Ch o o s e Ho p e I n st e a d o f F ear
BY PAOLA TENNON, RN, BSN, MBA/HCA, CCM “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence
many challenges and adjustment that had to be made during
of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) This scripture in simple
their take over and confinement. Israel had repeatedly rebelled,
terms tells me that our faith gives us the assurance that what we
murmured with discontent, rejected God’s laws and their
hope for will come to pass even if we cannot see it now. The
constant disobedient led to their punishment and subsequent
reference for this article is taken from the twentieth chapter of
captivity by a foreign nation.
The Book of Ezekiel. Rather than selecting a specific verse, I have chosen to draw from the entire chapter because it seems
You may ask how this particular scripture compares to the
to run parallel with events occurring in our society and in our
events of today especially when people are having trouble
nation today. We began with a brief overview of this chapter.
just processing the events that have occurred as a result of
This Old Testament Book of Ezekiel records the divinely
the Covid-19 worldwide pandemic. And although we are not
inspired visions and discernment of the prophet to which the
in captivity as Israel was; we are in a type of bondage. For
book is named. The Student Bible Dictionary tells us that the
one thing, this nation that was built on religious principles
Book of Ezekiel emphasizes the inner renewal of the heart
has come to an impasse. Not only are we divided as a nation
and spirit, the personal responsibility of sin, the renewal of the
on many levels; there is uncertainty as it relates to the future
nation and the importance of personal holiness. It helps people
status as to the long-term impact of this pandemic. Our socio-
to see the presence of God and His involvement in everyday
economic status, health care system, educational system, food,
events. In chapter 20 the setting takes place just prior to the
and supply chains have all been affected and fear and anarchy
coming destruction of the city of Jerusalem and the fall of Isreal
are consuming us leading to prolonged stress. Both scenarios
into captivity by the Babylonians. We can only imagine the
generate uncertainty and fear within our communities. What
28 | Fall 2020
appears to be two vastly different events actually run parallel to one another. Our nation is in turmoil much like the Nation of
Typically, we as human beings are resilient and will eventually
Isreal prior to their captivity. Regardless of the type of struggle
adapt to change. However, as this nation adjusts, we should
you are going through, whether physical, emotional, mental,
be aware of potential challenges that may be unknowingly
financial, environmental, or spiritual. Remember that God is
impacting our lives and that involves our emotional and
still there, and the ‘Son’ still shines even in the darkest hour
mental wellness. According to an article by the American
and in times of struggle. In addition, 2Corinthians 4:6-9 gives
Psychological Society on ‘Stress in America’; the COVID-19
an excellent analogy and offers encouragement that we can
pandemic has altered every aspect of American life, from
apply to what is occurring today; “We are troubled on every
health and work, to education and exercise. The American
side, yet not distressed. We are perplexed, but not in despair;
Psychological Association warns that over the long term,
persecuted but not forsaken, casted down, but not destroyed.”
the negative mental health effects of the coronavirus will be
For it is our faith that gives us the assurance that what we
serious and long-lasting. They further state that; the average
hope for will come to pass even if we cannot see it. God has
reported stress level for U.S. adults related to the coronavirus
promised that He would never leave us or forsake us as stated
pandemic is 5.9. When asked to rate their stress level in general,
in Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV); “Be strong and courageous. Do
the average reported stress for U.S. adults is 5.4. This is
not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God
significantly higher than the average stress level reported in the
goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Once
2019 Annual Stress in America survey, which was 4.9. It also
again, God is still there; so, cling to your faith and choose Hope
marks the first significant increase in average reported stress
instead of Fear.
since the survey began in 2007. ordinarypeoplemagazine | 29
In these unprecedented times our emotional and mental
“Strategies and techniques for destressing”
wellbeing are being challenged due to increased and prolonged stress, and a decline in our ability to cope. What is stress? Stress is the naturally occurring body’s response to a
Finding Peace of Mind: •
given situation. The effects of stress can affect us mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Certain chemical and
Maintaining balance in your life is the key to successful stress management.
•
physical aspects occur to generate a flight or fight response.
Learn that saying no to added responsibilities when possible. It is ok.
This enables the person to cope with or flee from the stressor.
•
Prioritize tasks, remain focused.
Furthermore, stress can be either positive or negative. Positive
•
Focus on one task at a time if you are overwhelmed or
aspects of stress enable us to thrive and become successful.
anxious.
It promotes self-empowerment, increases energy levels, and
•
Learn to delegate task and follow through.
generates a sense of well-being. Examples include meeting
•
Develop a support system, (friends, family, counsel)
deadlines, making tough decisions, increasing performance, or performing incredible feats in the midst of tragedy and
Techniques to seeking peace:
etc. In comparison, negative aspects of stress limits’ our
•
Quiet your mind through prayer & meditation.
effectiveness, promotes self-defeat, generates anger, and can
•
Face your stressor courageously and resist the
lead to the development or worsening of physical or mental
temptation to ignore it. (It is not going away)
issues. Examples of mental or emotional problems may include
•
Avoid unnecessary stressors in your life.
anxiety, frustration, anger, fearfulness, feelings of helplessness,
•
Bring resolution by committing to a course of action
behavioral changes or underlying mental/psychological issues. This can lead to habit such as overeating, smoking, drinking,
and remaining steadfast. •
drug abuse and possibly physical abuse.
Take time for self: music, reading, walking, exercise, enjoying nature & the things around you. Embrace laughter, eat a wholesome diet, get enough sleep,
The physical effects of stress occur when the brain release
practice breathing exercise; shift to positive thoughts,
chemicals and sends messages/impulses throughout the body
let the past go & stay in the present, etc.
which can lead to changes in the body’s physical function. Thereby, resulting in insomnia, aches & pain, increase in blood
Have Faith in the Midst of your storm:
pressure & heart rate and the exacerbation of disease processes
•
Know who you are and whose you are.
that can cause incidents such as asthma attacks, strokes,
•
Pray for discernment.
and heart attacks. Any of these aspects of stress whether
•
Stay focused & remember that your problems are
emotional, mental, or physical can actually impact one’s spiritual wellbeing. An article by the Mayo Clinic indicates that Spirituality has many benefits for stress relief and overall mental health. It can help you to: 1. Feel a sense of purpose, 2. Connect to the world which can lead to a valuable inner peace during difficult times. 3. Release control by sharing the burden of tough times as well as the joys of life’s blessings with those around you. 4. Expand your support network. This sharing of spiritual expression can help build relationships. 5. Lead a healthier life. They further state that people who consider themselves spiritual may be better able to cope with stress and may experience health benefits. Below are strategies and techniques that may be helpful.
30 | Fall 2020
always smaller than God. •
Understand that through faith you can say to the mountain be thy removed and it shall. Matthew 17:20
MAINTAIN POSITIVE THINKING
THE MIND OF THE WORLD
THE MIND OF CHRIST
1. I will do the best I can!
1. “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
2. I will try to accept those things I cannot change?
2. “God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the Courage to change the things I can; and the Wisdom to know the difference.”
3. I am working to the point of exhaustion.
3. “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt 11:28
4. I have to do all this by myself.
4. “…I will never Leave thee, nor forsake thee. The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear…Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and forever.” Hebrews 13: 5,6,8
5. I can talk to my friends or seek counsel about my problems.
5. Look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith… Hebrews 12:2
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Roman 15:13 NIV
REFERENCES AND RESOURCES •
Holy Bible New Living Translation, Trust. C. T. (1996). IL: Tyndale House Publisher Inc.
•
Holy Bible, King James Version, Thomas Nelson Publishers
•
The Student Bible Dictionary; Karen Dockrey, Johnnie & Phyllis Godwin, 2000, pg. 90
•
https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/report, retrieved November 6, 2020
•
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-traumatic_stress_disorder, retriever November 3, 2020
•
https://psychiatry.ucsf.edu/copingresources/covid19, retrieved Oct 18, 2020
•
https://psychiatry.ucsf.edu): Emotional Well-Being and Coping During COVID-19
•
https://www.assp.org/news-and-articles/2020/04/06/10-free-resources-to-help-you-better-manage-stress,
•
retrieved November 7, 2020
•
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/endocrine-system, retrieved November 3, 2020
•
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/the-immune-system, retrieved November 3, 2020
•
https://www.hormone.org/what-is-endocrinology/the-endocrine-system, retrieved November 3, 2020
•
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044464, retrieved November 6, 2020
•
https://www.mind-body-health.net/hpa-axis.shtml, retrieved November 3, 2020
•
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/eating-disorders/index.shtml, retrieved November 2, 2020
•
https://www.stress.org/, retrieved November 7, 2020
•
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 31
STYLE CONFIDENT BY COURTNEY ROBINSON, WARDROBE STYLIST & IMAGE COACH WITH IMAGE BY COURTNEY
Dressing Well - 10 Ways to Achieve a Put Together Look While looking put together may seem like a skill that few people have, anyone can achieve it! Here’s my Top 10 List of Ways to pull off a Put Together Look 1. Put your best face forward. Getting a makeup update is a perfect way to begin every season. You’ll learn about new tools and application techniques. Makeup makes an impact, showcases your sense of self-care, enhances your appearance when done well, and most importantly sends a message of confidence. 2. Refine your shoe collection. A woman looks modern, up-to-date, and put together in current shoe styles. Experiment with color and step outside of your comfort zone to find looks that will polish your outfit! 3. Add a brooch or two or three to your jackets, capes, or at the throat of a collared shirt. A well-chosen brooch can bring light to your face, express an aspect of your personality, or be a conversation starter.
32 | Fall 2020
4. Update your handbag. Are you someone who wears the same handbag day after day? Handbags can complete a look. They add texture to an outfit, relate to the mood you’ve created with your clothing pieces, or add an air of sophistication to your look. 5. Add a scarf or shawl to your outfit. Scarves can be functional and flattering. Wearing a scarf in a print that includes your most flattering colors will make you stand out and keep your neck protected in cooler weather. In the summertime, a linen scarf or a loose textured scarf gives your outfit interest when you’re wearing fewer layers. A small scarf tied to the handles of your handbag is another way to bring definition to your outfit. 6. Consider updating your hairstyle with color, a cut, or a protective style. If you’ve been wearing your hair the same way for several years, consider refreshing your look. Nothing gives you confidence like a great hairstyle. Look for people who have hairstyles that appeal to you and ask them where they get their hair done. 7. Glasses are powerful accessories. Even if you only wear readers, you can enhance your look with expressive frames. Frames can make you look younger, alert, sexy, creative, and even dramatic. 8. Wear tailored clothing. It’s not how much the piece of clothing costs, but how well it fits. Dress your body type by choosing flattering and timeless silhouettes that fit well. 9. Don’t neglect your manicures and pedicures. Maintaining your hands and feet is an essential part of self-care and helps you look presentable and well-groomed. 10. Wear a smile. It’s been said by many that the best accessory a woman can wear is a smile. A smile conveys warmth, interest, and kindness. While helping you with your put together look, it lifts the spirits of those around you. I promise the compliments you receive will make it worth your while. Don’t be surprised if you wear a brighter lip color and friends notice your jacket and ask you if it’s new. Or, if you purchase a pair of new heels, they may think you’ve lost ten pounds. You’re standing out, being noticed, gaining visibility and that’s what a woman can expect with a put together look. If you’d like assistance getting your look together, I’m here for you. Contact me to schedule a complimentary style consult and I’ll help you personalize your put together look to highlight your best attributes and personality. For daily tips to help you elevate your personal style follow me on Instagram @imagebycourtney or Facebook – Image by Courtney.
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 33
MIND YOUR MONE Y BY DELAYNA MICHELE ELLIOTT
ONENESS IN MONEY during the pandemic. Let’s begin.. While you may already know most of the things we are going to say, I think it’s important that we remind ourselves just exactly what money is, how we think about it, how much of it is enough, and how to earn the amount of money we need to live the way we want to live, now as well as in the important future years. These are unusual times. MONEY is at the top of everyone’s thoughts. This is no time to put your head in the sand and wait for someone else to solve your money troubles. You have the right to create your own economy.
34 | Fall 2020
to pay a $1500.00 unexpected expense (ex. Home or car repair)
I love the way Earl Nightingale says it. Nothing will take the place of money in the area in which money
•
Retirement
works. That’s all there is to it. When you need Money,
•
Nearly half of all Americans (46%) have less than
you need Money.
$10,000 saved for their retirement
We intend to demystify the subject of Money. We will
How can we achieve OneNess in the area of money?
reveal truths about Money which we believe will help
When it comes to money, communication is huge. This
transform your financial lives.
area can be a very sensitive area to discuss.
Money is mentioned 800 times in the Bible
Most discussions around money in the marriage relationship are stemmed from frustration instead of
Proverbs 13:22 “A good Man leaves an inheritance to
collaboration or family planning. We want to share
his children’s children.” Indicating that God wants us
with you how the discussions can be easy and smooth
to make a difference, financially, in our family tree.
when it comes to money.
Proverbs 21:20 “In the house of the wise are stores
In our coaching sessions we help clients discovered
of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours
their philosophy of the role money plays in the home.
all he has.” This gives us an idea of how God wants
Who should earn the money? Who should manage the
us to save for a rainy day, to set something back for
money? Who should make the most money? Should
safekeeping. And not spend every dime we have.
there be a savings account? Should we buy life insurance? Should we help our family members when
1 Samuel 22
they have a need? Should we pay tithes? Should we still take care of our adult children? How much should
22:1 David therefore departed from there and escaped
we spend on toys, clothes and outings for our children
to the cave of Adullam. So when his brothers and all
who live with us? Should we take care of children
his father’s house heard it, they went down there to
outside of our home? How should we deal with the
him. 22:2 And everyone who was in distress, everyone
baby mamas?
who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him. So he became captain over them. And
Subscribe today @ womenwithwealth.com. Providing
there were about four hundred men with him.
answers to your money questions.
Financial Statistics
DeLayna Michele Elliott,
•
Marital Problems
Diamond Wealth Coach
•
37 percent (the highest rate) of marital problems
WomenwithWealth.com
derive from financial situations •
Cash Flow
•
70 percent of all consumers live paycheck to paycheck, meaning they run out of money before the end of the month.
•
Savings
•
The average family would have to use a credit card ordinarypeoplemagazine | 35
Miracles and Blessings
HOW I BECAME THE
“THE MIRACLE MAN
BBY JERRELL C. RUCKER
36 | Fall 2020
N”
I would like to tell you a little about my life. I
The doctors present called me back privately
have always been a very hard worker. When it
and advised me that my urine showed excessive
came to my church home and career. I served at
protein. They recommended I call my personal
my home church in many capacities some of which
doctor on the follow Monday to do a follow up
included but not limited to being a deacon, minis-
screening. After being referred to The West Clinic,
ter of music, church treasurer as well as overseeing
where I underwent several tests and was later
several projects related to the upkeep of the build-
diagnosed with MULTIPLE MYELOMA, the
ing. I enjoyed rendering my services and refused
‘BIG C’, a bone marrow CANCER! The Oncol-
to accept pay for doing God’s work. I strongly
ogist explained the treatment options, risks and
believe my blessings come from blessing others
methods. This final prognosis was on a Friday, the
and in my service.
day before my wife and I had plans to go to New York City the next morning. I did not want to spoil
My wife and I are firm believers that “Faithfulness
the trip and kept the diagnosis to myself until we
Pays Off Now”. I have a wife that was truly God
returned home.
sent. We will be celebrating 40 years of marriage this year on November 29. She is also the best
Upon returning home, I decided it was time to talk
Caregiver one would ever want. We nurtured 4
to my wife, Angela, and tell her what was going
daughters at home and enjoyed taking them on
on with me. I asked her to keep it to herself and
family vacations. Our home was a custom home
not to tell anyone, NO ONE! I did not realize
that I did many renovations on myself.
that keeping my secret would be so hard on her, knowing that we had a praying family and friends.
In 1976, at the age of 17, I graduated and was not
After a year treatment, my doctors decided that I
sure I really wanted to attend college. I went to
was strong enough for a bone marrow transplant to
work for one prominent construction companies
put this disease away.
in the Memphis area, namely Zellner Construction Company. My stepfather was a superintendent
I did not know nor understood much about the
who hired me as a laborer in training. I worked for
procedure. However, I agreed to follow through as
them several years during the summer in different
recommended. I had no idea I would end up going
job assignments and various titles. As time went
to the hospital for two months, every morning for
on, I found myself running crews and moving up
the bone marrow transplant procedures. I was
the ranks at Zellner because I was a hard worker,
connected to a machine that transmitted medication
I rarely took time off and would only do weekend
into my bloodstream. The doctors told me after
vacation travel with my wife and family. I did get
one week, I would be very sick from the transplant
to attend college in Memphis, tuition free and paid
procedure. They also said four days into the treat-
for by the owners of Zellner at that time. I am
ment; someone would meet me/us with wheelchair
proud to say I am now one of the owners of Zellner
assistance from the parking lot at Baptist East to
Construction LLC. My wife and I believe that
entrance. BUT GOD! The Lord had other plans
our blessings came from being faithful servants in
for me. Every day for two months, I WALKED
our church and community, paying out tithe and
into the building with no major side effects! That
helping a multitude of family and friends.
was nothing but MY GOD! I acquired a new name by the medical staff, THE MIRACLE MAN!
My testimony began in 2007 when I attended a health fair at my home church. At this health
Because my children visited often, we had to ex-
fair I gave urine and blood work for a screening.
plain them what was going on. Keep in mind I had ordinarypeoplemagazine | 37
asked my wife to keep my diagnosis a secret from everyone, and she did that. After about two weeks of my wife and I being away from church, everyone suspected something was going on because we were such faithful members. Finally, I decided to tell our family and friends, which was a great relief and a burden lifted from my wife and I. Of course, our friends and family were surprised, but we knew that they would be praying for us. There were many intercessors standing in the gap to pray for my healing and recovery. After much treatment and tests post the transplant, the doctors said the procedure did not work as well as they had thought. I had to go back on chemo treatment administered three weeks of every month. Over the next seven years, the multiple myeloma got more aggressive. There were some days I would have minor side effects. In 2013, my oncologist decided she would pass me off to another more seasoned oncologist who specialized in treating this type of cancer. That totally worked for me! He had me undergo another series of tests and reviewed the results. Finally, he decided to take me off all meds and treatment! This was nothing but GOD’S GRACE! For the next two years, I really had no transplants, no transfusions, no no chemo meds. In 2015, I faced another medical trauma. I had a MASSIVE HEART ATTACK! I was hospitalized at Methodist Germantown CVICU for two and a half months. I was told I would not walk again, speak again and possibly never work again! BUT GOD! I had God and the best caregiver who prayed for me determined that this prognosis would NOT be so! It was suggested that I transfer to a nursing care home. But, my wife said NOT SO! Instead, I went to Healthsouth inpatient rehabilitation for 2 weeks. It had to exercise to regain muscle strength to stand, speech therapy and learn to feed myself again. When the therapist asked me to walk 25 feet, I would walk 50 feet determined to beat the odds. They would tell me to do 100 feet and I would do four to five hundred feet! Through it all God restored the activity of my limbs. God provided me with the best doctors that one could want! After being on my back for three months, I did return to work at Zellner on light duty. I had routine checkups for the multiple myeloma and the disease had returned more aggressively taking
38 | Fall 2020
effect on my health once again. I was put back on chemo treatment. BUT GOD showed up once again after five more months of treatment and the disease was gone, in remission. Don’t tell me what PRAYER won’t do. I have been back to work and very actively engaged in the business. My wife did not have to take leave because her employer allowed her to focus on caring for me until I could get back on my feet. They, a Fortune 500 Company, continued her full salary the entire time! LOOK AT WHAT GOD CAN AND WILL DO! We thank God for our journey. We have been and are enjoying our seven grandchildren of which includes two grandsons! We have done things that I never thought we would every do again since my illnesses. We love traveling with our family! After my recovery, we took a leap and joined the Brown Baptist Church family in August 2015. God had blessed us so that we desired to enhance our spiritual growth in service and ministry. We joined the Cancer Ministry that allowed us to share my testimony. The loving kindness of the ministry members has been a blessing. I gained another title by Pastor Orr, THE DANCING DIRECTOR, after serving as one of the directors of the men’s choir aka Mighty Men of Brown! God continues to use me in service where I did not feel I would ever have the strength to do again. The Cancer Ministry of Brown Baptist has allowed me to encourage men to get physicals and share their testimonies to help others that might be going through or have similar journeys. No matter what the diagnosis or treatment, faith and hope in Jesus Christ will sustain you on your journey. Thank you all for your loving kindness and we will be forever grateful. Be blessed!
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 39
Gospel Music/Artists
ANGIE GREENE GR AY BY PASTOR TERESA JORDAN Angie Greene Gray is a native of Wilmington NC and currently resides in the Charlotte, NC area. With a background in piano and percussion spanning more than 35 years, her journey into vocal music began about 22 years ago. Angie spent 15 years as a featured soloist with the Wilmington Celebration Choir and was afforded the opportunity to sing with Jessy Dixon, Lynda Randle, Jason Crabb, Carman and many more. In 2013 Angie and her Mom, Paula Greene, formed their duo – Paula & Angie – and began traveling all over the World spreading the Gospel
40 | Fall 2020
“It’s not about the accolades but about the growth in Christ that we have as artists and songwriters and producers and people. It’s about the love of Christ coming through our lyrics and helping our listeners draw in a closer relationship to Him.”
message through song and testimony. Over the course of their career they’ve had a Billboard Top 15 Heat Seekers single, a Billboard Top 25 Gospel Album, spent 20 consecutive weeks on the CMTA Inspirational Album Charts, S&M Indie Music Awards Contemporary Gospel Group Winner (2018), Prayze Factor Traditional Gospel Group Winner (2015, 2019), Prayze Factor Alternative Christian Group Winner (2018, 2019), been considered for 3 GRAMMY® Award nominations and 4 Gospel Music Association Dove Award nominations. In January 2015, Angie began taking on larger roles within the music creation process – songwriting, arranging, producing – and God opened a door that allowed Angie to become a mentee under the leadership of several renowned songwriters and producers. With close to 23 years ordinarypeoplemagazine | 41
of corporate business expertise and a love for music, Angie
•
Gospel Recorded Song of the Year (Where Do We Go,
fused her expertise and passion in December 2016 by creating
Paula & Angie) Gospel Recorded Album of the Year
her very own Indie Label imprint - G2 Music Group, LLC.
(Where Do We Go, Paula & Angie) CCM Recorded Song of the Year (Footsteps, Remain Anchored)
G2 Music was created with a focus to help “Music Ministries
•
Remain Anchored)
Navigate the Music Industry.” The label has 3 signed Recording Artists (Paula & Angie, Remain Anchored and Angie Lamara)
CCM Recorded Song of the Year (Lightning Storm,
•
Considered for 6 Gospel Music Association Dove
so Angie can provide a very dedicated and focused approach to
Award Nominations Producer of the Year (Angie
each artist. Between vocal coaching, management, mentoring
Greene Gray)
and recording, Angie works with the artists to understand their
Gospel Recorded Song of the Year (Soon & Very Soon,
goal and works with them to achieve it. In just under 4 years,
Paula & Angie) Gospel Recorded Song of the Year
the label has amassed the following:
(Where Do We Go, Paula & Angie) Gospel Recorded Song of the Year (Take Me to the King [Acoustic],
Released 3 albums (Where Do We Go, Remain
Paula & Angie)
Anchored, Merged)
Contemporary Rock Song of the Year
Released 1 digital single (In the Hands of the
(Footsteps, Remain Anchored) Contemporary Pop
Carpenter)
Song of the Year (Move [Keep Walkin’], Remain
•
Released 8 original songs
Anchored)
•
Where Do We Go (Angie Greene Gray & Daniel
• •
Anthony Heath)
Angie has always said that G2 Music is a family business with
•
Listen Up (Angie Greene Gray)
God as the head. Her husband, Bill Gray, and her Mom, Paula
•
When God Says Move (Angie Greene Gray) Footsteps
Greene, round out the organization. It’s not about the accolades
(Patrick & Hannah Rose)
but about the growth in Christ that we have as artists and
Lightning Storm (Patrick & Hannah Rose)
songwriters and producers and people. It’s about the love of
Back In Line (Patrick & Hannah Rose)
Christ coming through our lyrics and helping our listeners draw
Waiting on the Wind to Change
in a closer relationship to Him.
(Patrick & Hannah Rose) • •
Stars in the Sky (Patrick & Hannah Rose)
Outside of being a CEO and Recording Artist, Angie loves
Won S&M Indie Music Awards
to spend time with her husband (Bill) and their daughter
Contemporary Gospel Group 2018 (Paula & Angie)
(Alexandria). They love to travel, cook and sing.
Won 8 Prayze Factor Awards Producer of the Year 2019 (Angie Greene Gray)
For more information on Angie and G2 Music Group, LLC
Traditional Gospel Artist Group 2015, 2019
please visit the following:
(Paula & Angie) •
Alternative Christian Group 2018, 2019
www.g2musicgroup.org
(Paula & Angie) Christian Rock Group 2018 (Remain
www.paulaandangiemusic.com
Anchored) Contemporary Christian Artist Group 2019
www.remainanchoredmusic.com
(Remain Anchored) Inspirational Artist Group 2019
www.angielamaramusic.com
(Remain Anchored) •
Considered for 6 GRAMMY® Award Nominations Producer of the Year (Angie Greene Gray) Vocal & Music Arranging (Angie Greene Gray)
42 | Fall 2020
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 43
Consider This
DIALOGUE WITH AN ATHEIST BY VANDERBILT BRABSON III, AUTHOR Over the past few years, I have had some very interesting conversations and dialogues with individuals regarding the Bible, the Christian faith, and what the scriptures declare about the person of Jesus Christ. On one such occasion a young lady, who was a nonbeliever, agreed to sit down and talk to me about this matter—but not before first warning me that one of her parents was agnostic and the other was an atheist. Yet during our talk about what the holy scriptures declare about who Jesus Christ is, this same young lady’s heart became convinced and convicted by the Holy Spirit, and she humbly bowed her head and became converted after praying to receive Jesus Christ as her Savior. One of the most interesting dialogues I have ever heard between a Christian and an atheist took place between the late Dr. Adrian Rogers, former pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee,
44 | Fall 2020
and a former executive at the space center at Merritt Island. The executive approached Rogers and asked him to speak with his wife who was suicidal. Dr. Rogers agreed on the condition that the man accompany his wife to such a meeting. The man agreed. When the three met, it soon became obvious to Rogers, after listening to the wife, that the primary cause of her mental and emotional distress was her immoral, abusive, drunken, lying, gambling, blasphemous, cheating husband. Therefore, Dr. Rogers turned his attention to the husband and initiated a dialogue by simply asking, “Sir, I want to ask you a question. Are you a Christian?” To which the husband laughed and scoffed, “No, I’m not a Christian. I’m an atheist!” In response, Rogers replied, “Oh, …an atheist! An atheist is a man who says there is no God, and he knows there is no God. Do you know there is no God?” The man replied, “Yes.” Rogers responded, “Oh, that’s interesting. Of all there is to know, how much do you know? Do you know half of all there is to know?” The man replied, “Of course not.” Rogers said, “But you said there is no God. Wouldn’t you have to admit the possibility that God exist in that half of the knowledge you don’t have?” The husband replied, “Okay, you got me. I’m not an atheist. I’m an agnostic.” [Which in Latin and Greek simply means… I don’t know. It is to acknowledge ignorance]. So, Rogers said, “That’s just a fancy word for doubter. Are you a doubter?” The husband replied, “Yes, and a big one!” Rogers responded, “I don’t want to know what size. I want to know what kind.” The man asked, “What do you mean?” Rogers said, “Well, there are two kinds of doubters—honest doubters and dishonest doubters. Which kind are you?” The man asked, “What’s the difference?” Rogers answered, “An honest doubter doesn’t know, but he wants to know, and therefore he investigates. A dishonest doubter doesn’t know because he doesn’t want to know, and therefore he can’t find God for the same reason a thief can’t find a policeman.” [Note: “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil...” [John 3:19]. Rogers asked, “Sir, would you like to find out if you are an honest doubter or a dishonest doubter?” The man exclaimed, “Yes.” Rogers then asked, “Sir, would you be willing to sign this statement:
ordinarypeoplemagazine | 45
“God, I don’t know if You exist or not. I don’t know
Dr. Rogers from the state of Maine where he had moved and
if the Bible is Your word or not. I don’t know if
informed Rogers that he had an active tape ministry teaching
Jesus Christ is Your Son or not. I don’t know, but I
the Bible. The man said in his letter, “Mr. Rogers, I want to
want to know. And because I want to know, I will
thank you for spending time with this general in the devil’s
make an honest investigation. And because it is an
army.” Rogers said, “The man’s problem was not intellectual
honest investigation, I will follow the results of that
(as the man assumed). His problem was his will. When a man
investigation wherever they lead me—regardless of the
surrenders his will, God will speak to him. When we obey the
cost.”
light of God that we have been given, God gives us more light.
Rogers asked, “Sir, would you sign that statement?” The
You and I may say, “Well, I am definitely not an atheist!”
man replied, “I’d like to be honest.” Rogers responded,
The problem is each of our lives outwardly reveals to others
“Wonderful,” and then gave the man the assignment to read
what we truly believe inwardly. Therefore, what difference
the Gospel of John. Rogers told the man, “The purpose of that
does it make to exclaim we are not atheist, if our lives are
book is that you may know that Jesus is the Christ, and that by
lived as though God truly does not exist? And if this is truly
believing you may have life through His name.”
the way you have been living your life, are you now ready to acknowledge this before God and allow Him to make you into
The man said, “But I don’t believe—” Rogers said, “That’s
the person He created you to be? Remember, no alcoholic
alright. You just make an honest investigation. You just say to
becomes alcohol free, without first acknowledging he or she
God, “ ‘I don’t know if this is Your word or not. If this is Your
has an alcohol problem. No drug addict becomes rehabilitated
word, show me. And I will make up my mind before the fact that
without first acknowledging he or she has a drug problem, and
I will obey You …only if You show me that this is Your word and
no sinner truly gets saved without first acknowledging he or she
speak to my heart.’ ” The man replied, “That’s fair enough.”
is a sinner.
What happened? Rogers said, “In a few weeks the man came
The same principle applies to you and me. We must first
back and said, “I believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” The
recognize that we need God’s help. We must be willing to
man got down on his knees like a little child and wept his
truly see ourselves as God sees us. It is a true statement that
way into the arms of Jesus.” Years later the same man wrote
God loves us just the way we are, but it is equally true, that
46 | Fall 2020
God loves us too much to leave us the way we are. We must
fail not. They are new every morning. Great is Your
surrender our will to His will.
faithfulness. Lord, I am truly sorry for my waywardness and allowing my will, not Yours, to become my chief priority.
In this life, you and I cannot decide what happens to us, but
Because of it, I have continually excused my words, my
we can decide what happens in us. If you are not a Christian,
thoughts, and my behavior. I am truly sorry, and I am asking
there is no better time than now to pray and become one by
for Your forgiveness.
simply praying: I no longer want to talk, think, or live in a way that is Dear God in Heaven, I now understand that nothing
contrary to Your will and Your way. I desire for me that
in this life, apart from accepting and trusting in the
which You desire for me—that in my life You will be glorified.
blood sacrifice of Your Son Jesus Christ at Calvary
Dear Lord, please cleanse me from all my sin. It is Your will,
will cleanse me from my sin and fill this spiritual void
and Your will alone that I seek, and the life of Christ which
and hunger within my heart and life. I am so sorry
I choose to live. Give me this day a servant’s spirit and a
for my sin and the life I have lived. Please forgive me
surrendered heart before You. And from this moment forward
and accept me as Your child. With all of my heart I
give me the power to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk
am surrendering my heart and life to You because of
humbly before You. I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
what Jesus has done for me. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who I now truly accept as my Savior. In
“I used to ask God to help me. Then I asked if I might help
Jesus’ name, Amen.
Him. I ended up by asking Him to do his work through me.”
If you are already a Christian, there is no better time than now to repent and start doing the right thing. You may be asking
James Hudson Taylor. Taylor was an English missionary
what that is. If so, and that is your question, please pray the
and founder of the
following:
China Inland Mission
Dear Heavenly Father, I understand that it is only because of
Vanderbilt Brabson III
Your mercies that we are not consumed. Your compassions
© October 2020 ordinarypeoplemagazine | 47
Small Business Corner
SM AL L BUS I NE S S
C ORNER
BY WILL ODOM
48 | Fall 2020
There were Joan and Melissa, Betsey and Lulu,
The Mother Daughter Duo offers their not-so
Sharon and Kelly, Kris and Kourtney, Kim, Khloe,
nutshell definition of luxury as “that that may
Kendall and Kylie, and then, there’s Cynthia and
not be necessarily essential to life and living, but
Annia, “the Mother Daughter Duo.” _
that evokes indescribable pleasure, transforming comfort and brings satisfaction to all or most of
Given that the Luxury Concierge industry is
one’s senses.” _While many may debate whether
deemed a non-traditional area of expertise for
“Luxury” _is an adverb, adjective or noun, most
people of color, it is most apparent, no one
everyone will attest that whichever it is, Luxury
bothered to tell Annia Jenkins and Cynthia
is a beautiful thing, achievable at different levels
Hightower-Jenkins, aka “t_h_e_ _Mother-
therefore, redefining it for the multitude.
Daughter Duo.” _This Duo insists that their only surrender is to their passion for “all things
Without hesitance this Mother Daughter Duo,
beautiful and luxury,” _thusly, All Things Beautiful
defies all barriers to guarantee amazement,
& Co, was birthed.
overwhelming satisfaction, and of course, ‘Happiness’ _for their clientele. This team delivers
Getting these Co CEOs to slow down long enough
luxury that is emotionally, spiritually, physically
to cop an interview, not to mention a photoshoot,
and socially quenching, while honoring a simple
can prove to be both daunting, and downright
philosophy that serves as inspiration for their
unnerving, but is undoubtedly, worth every effort.
signature experiences, “Life, make no apologies for experiencing it.” _
With her noted strong personality in tow, Annia, (aka daughter) dubbed a ‘millennium
The Luxury Lane is a high-traffic lane with every
influencer’ _to watch, is a Dallas social A-Lister,
possible genre of business, from manufacturers,
a conscious philanthropist and a no-nonsense
advertisers, fashion, automotive, health, beauty
business woman respected for encouraging others
and cosmetic, real estate, pet care, weddings,
to create businesses that allow them to coalesce
travel, quite frankly, every industry has been
their own interests, talents and acumen. Cynthia,
impacted by society’s quest for “the finer things in
(aka mother) is the socially-astute, true Louisiana
life.” _Annia reminds her interviewers that it takes
Southern Belle, who unapologetically ascribes to
just seconds after opening up a magazine before
savoir faire, and has proven herself as a designer-
you see the word Luxury, she says, “Luxury is
stylist and a creative guru majoring in over-the-top
life’s icing on the cake.”
productions. Holistically speaking, beautiful living appeals to Referencing the 17th Edition of the Bain &
most everyone, but what beautiful Living looks
Co Luxury Study, the overall luxury market,
like differs greatly from person to person. Luxury
encompassing both luxury goods and experiences,
for many carries an aura of unattainability, but All
represents nearly 1.4 trillion dollars globally.
Things Beautiful & Co dispels such mindsets by
Together, embracing their obvious generational
producing life-changing, beautiful experiences,
variances, this Luxury Duo represents a vastly
even for those who hadn’t already attained a spot
diverse reservoir of courageously creative
in the financially wealthy column.
ingenuity that is ripe for the worlds of beauty and luxury.
The watermark of the All Things Beautiful & Co. ordinarypeoplemagazine | 49
brand can be found in every aspect of the creative prowess,
that provides them the unique edge and knack for capturing
from the simplicity of their planning boards to the complexity
even the unspoken desires and emotional triggers of their
of the execution of their plans, right down to their uncommon
clientele.
productions. From assisting in developing brand concepts or brand activations for high-end luxury brands, curating yachts
Be on the lookout for The Mother-Daughter Duo on upcoming
and private jet charters, over-the-top bespoke experiences,
red carpets, and for the early spring 2021 launch of the All
to producing awe-inspiring memorable moments, including
Things Beautiful Travel Club, for curated travel experiences
marriage proposals, international travel and other curations, All
for an intimate travel circle. For this Duo, the sky is the limit
Things Beautiful & Co. does it all, all things luxury that is.
as they continue to extend their service portfolio, carving out their luxury lifestyle niche to exceed the expectations of a
While Annia and Cynthia share their love and passion for
discriminating luxury clientele who can Feel the Difference in
curating breathtaking ambiance and magical moments, they
Beautiful Living.
also share in the dregs of having been bullied as children, adolescents, and even adults. The Duo, unfortunately, share in
All Things Beautiful & Co is a Texas-based company with a
the unrelenting pain experience that results from them suffering
philanthropic spirit and an International scope and clientele.
with Fibromyalgia. While these experiences, have offered negative impact, they have also served, as does a diamond grind, to meticulously sharpen their sensitivity to the emotions, feelings, expressions and desires of others. It is that sensitivity
50 | Fall 2020
Inspirational Words
P SALM 136 O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever: The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever: The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever: And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever: With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever: And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever: To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever: And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever: And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever: Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever: And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.
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52 | Fall 2020
FROM WITHIN... BY VERNA V. NICKELBERRY As 2020 come to a close, I want to thank you are readers for your continual support. I know firsthand that this has been a year of change and our normal as we once knew it is no longer. Although we are experiencing a new normal at this time, let’s not forget that God is still in control. Covid-19 (2020) is new to all of us, something that none of us has seen before! It is our duty to keep ourselves safe as we keep others safe, by wearing our mask and practicing social distancing, by staying six feet apart. Many of us our looking forward to 2021 and everything that it has to offer. I admonish you to stay focus, stay prayed up and stay in the fact of God. Again thank you for your support, and I look forward to serving you in 2021! And as always, Love, Peace, and Increase… Verna V. Nickelberry
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