thoughts, prayers, love and light to those who lost loved ones this year ***never forget***
Be Kinder than Necessary
"Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle." That quote is so good I wish I had written it myself but I didn’t, but for the longest time I've always identified with it and through this little reminder I am quicker to offer a smile when I make eye contact with strangers and generally more patient and kind.
A NYC Taxi driver wrote:
I arrived at the address and honked the horn. After waiting a few minutes I honked again. Since this was going to be my last ride of my shift I thought about just driving away, but instead I put the car in park and walked up to the door and knocked.
"Just a minute", answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor.
After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 90′s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940′s movie. By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware. ‘Would you carry my bag out to the car?’ she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, and then returned to assist the woman. She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness. ‘It’s nothing’, I told her ‘I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother to be treated."
“Oh, you’re such a good boy,” she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address and then asked, ‘Could you drive through downtown?’ “It’s not the shortest way,” I answered quickly.
“Oh, I don’t mind,” she said. “I’m in no hurry. I’m on my way to a hospice.”
I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening. ‘I don’t have any family left,’ she continued in a soft voice. “The doctor says I don’t have very long.’ I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.
‘What route would you like me to take?’ I asked.
For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she’d ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.
As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, “I’m tired. Let’s go now.”
We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a Small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.
‘How much do I owe you?’ She asked, reaching into her purse.
‘Nothing,’ I said
‘You have to make a living,’ she answered.
‘There are other passengers,’ I responded.
Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.
‘You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,’ she said.’ Thank you.’
I squeezed her hand, and then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.
I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that day I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once then driven away?
The point of the above story is to encourage you to be kinder than necessary to the people you meet. We are never too busy to be kind.
Smile and make it a great day,
a fork in the road
Alice came to a fork in the road.
'Which road do I take?' she asked.
'Where do you want to go?' responded the Cheshire cat.
'I don't know,' Alice answered.
'Then,' said the cat, 'it doesn't matter.'
Lewis Carroll, 1832-1898
I done been through some painful things
I thought that I'd never make it through
Filled up with shame from the top of my head to the souls of my shoes
I've put myself in so many chaotic circumstances
By the Grace of God
I've been given so many second chances
But today I decided to let it all go
I'm dropping these bags I'm makin room for my joy
~I Choose, India Arie
God's mercies are new every morning and His grace is sufficient for me today. I think sometimes I try to do lots of days worth of things in one day, when all I'm required to do is today's work. When I focus on that, I have so much peace and I am really able to say that His grace is totally enough. I'm reminded of how God provided manna for the Israelites everyday. He didn't provide a week's worth in one day, but each day He provided exactly what they needed. He does that for us. He gives us exactly what we need for each day, which causes us each day to rely on Him and look to Him. In this I can truly say that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Perfectly Imperfect
perfection is a silly unattainable goal. I bawl, I pray, I cry, I occasionally crack a joke, but still I rise. It’s called being human and it’s all you ever can be. Having quirks, imperfections, personality traits and character flaws are a part of that. When you can admit to your own imperfections no one can use them against you.
so fly....
Love that Elle Varner
do you know where you're going
Life loves to be taken by the lapel and told: "I am with you kid. Let's go." ~Maya Angelou
#notes to self
“I don’t understand how a woman can leave the house without fixing herself up a little – if only out of politeness. And then, you never know, maybe that’s the day she has a date with destiny. And it’s best to be as pretty as possible for destiny.”
–Coco Chanel
–Coco Chanel
#nowPlaying - Amy Winehouse
We all have 24 hours in a day but we’re promised none.
"you go back to her and I go back to, I go back to black"
".. and though I'm not ashamed but the guilt will kill you if she don't first"
In My Bed.
Stronger than Me.
Tears dry on their own.
"you go back to her and I go back to, I go back to black"
".. and though I'm not ashamed but the guilt will kill you if she don't first"
In My Bed.
Stronger than Me.
Tears dry on their own.
sarcasm much
What next?
“Oooh! I know, I know! May I have some more disappointment and pain?
and don’t forget the stress and anxiety, please.”
“Oooh! I know, I know! May I have some more disappointment and pain?
and don’t forget the stress and anxiety, please.”
“People think a soul mate is your perfect fit, and that's what everyone wants. But a true soul mate is a mirror, the person who shows you everything that is holding you back, the person who brings you to your own attention so you can change your life. A true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your walls and smack you awake. A soul mates purpose is to shake you up, tear apart your ego a little bit, show you your obstacles and addictions, break your heart open so new light can get in, make you so out of control that you have to transform your life..."
- Elizabeth Gilbert, "Eat, Pray, Love"
- Elizabeth Gilbert, "Eat, Pray, Love"
I'd do anything for you, I'd stand out in the rain
Anything you want me to do, don't let it slip away
There's a quiet storm and it never felt like this before
There's a quiet storm, I think it's you
There's a quiet storm and I never felt this hot before
It's givin me somethin that's taboo
~ The Sweetest Taboo, Sade
Anything you want me to do, don't let it slip away
There's a quiet storm and it never felt like this before
There's a quiet storm, I think it's you
There's a quiet storm and I never felt this hot before
It's givin me somethin that's taboo
~ The Sweetest Taboo, Sade
He holds on to the moments they spend together. He watches her open up and then shut down. Her inconsistency makes him want her even more. Something about her attention makes him feel super human, so he savors whatever she is willing to give. Deep down, he knows that she will never be his. So for as long as he can, he has decided to be where she needs him to be. It’s just a duty to her that he can't explain.
Motherhood is a task that at times does not seem equal to the super powers that I possess. It is a blessing, an honor, a cherished responsibility, a wondrous experience - but it can be overwhelming, challenging, and downright bone-wearying tired. It demands everything every second of the day. There are times when I feel like I've run out of anything to give. but in those moments God gently reassures me that they have a Heavenly Father who loves them to infinity and beyond. He will strengthen me and guide me as I raise my children in the knowledge of Him.
Thank you, God, for giving me another year of life.
Thank you for all the people who remembered me today
by sending cards, and letters, gifts and good wishes.
Thank you for all the experience of this past year;
for times of success which will always be happy memories, for times of failure which reminded me of my own weakness and of my need for you,
for times of joy when the sun was shining,
for times of sadness which drove me to you.
Forgive me
for the hours I wasted,
for the chances I failed to take,
for the opportunities I missed this past year.
Help me in the days ahead to make this the best year yet, and through it to bring good credit to myself,
happiness and pride to my loved ones,
and joy to you. Amen.
#nowPlaying: Hello Fear, Kirk Franklin
"hello Fear before you sit down, there's something I need to explain"
This woman across the aisle from me at the Supermarket aggressively pulls her cart up to the line with two energetic, little boys in the cart. She is mumbling things under her breath and she moves a piece of hair back into her pony tail and throws her purse over her shoulder. I could feel the tension in the air.
She reaches into her cart and tosses down a box of Tampax and some donut holes.
I couldn't help but laugh in my head I so badly wanted to look her in the eyes and say, "this too shall pass," but you never know what could come back in return. So, I chose to remain silent. It was borderline sitcom material ... I should know because I've been there before.
She reaches into her cart and tosses down a box of Tampax and some donut holes.
I couldn't help but laugh in my head I so badly wanted to look her in the eyes and say, "this too shall pass," but you never know what could come back in return. So, I chose to remain silent. It was borderline sitcom material ... I should know because I've been there before.
That one person that doesn't like me
Sometimes something crappy happens between you and another person that leaves you feeling like ….crap…. When that happens to me (which is hardly ever) but when it does happen to me it makes me unspeakably sad and shaken to the core that this person now has a very low opinion of me.
Sometimes you can say sorry in a million different ways to infinity and that person will still not offer you forgiveness, so all you're left with is a void or a black hole.
Le sigh, at the end of the day whatever misunderstanding happened between you and that person you need to forgive yourself and move the eff on, simmering in this boosheet stew is going to drive you crazy. To use a cliche that is so true and on the money “what other people think of you is none of your business”
*Of course, someone not liking you does not automatically mean that they suck. Although isn't it nice to think so?*
1. I’m not a fan of clingy or needy people.
2. I think ignorance can be funny; sometimes.
3. don’t call me “stranger” conversations go both ways
4. I fear the dentist.
5. I’m annoyed when people blame things on the man.
6. I judge people who publicly litter or spit or burp, or blow their noses
7. In my head I’m sarcastic, snarky and rude.
8. Sometimes fear motivates me.
9. Do not accuse me of something - I just might go out and do it "just for the thrill"
10. I've killed you a million times in my head
2. I think ignorance can be funny; sometimes.
3. don’t call me “stranger” conversations go both ways
4. I fear the dentist.
5. I’m annoyed when people blame things on the man.
6. I judge people who publicly litter or spit or burp, or blow their noses
7. In my head I’m sarcastic, snarky and rude.
8. Sometimes fear motivates me.
9. Do not accuse me of something - I just might go out and do it "just for the thrill"
10. I've killed you a million times in my head
"...it turns out that there are few things more chaotic than the beat of a human heart. its speeding up, slowing down. pretty face, flight of stairs. it's always changing depending on what's happening out there. it's an erratic son of {jay-walker}. but underneath all of that bump-da-bump mess, there is, in fact, a pattern - the truth. and it's love. the most important thing about love is that we choose to give it, and we choose to receive it - making it the least random act in the entire universe. it transcends blood; it transcends betrayal, and all the dirt that makes us human. if you can figure that out, the jake lees of the world have got nothing on you." - frank allen | chaos theory
I prayed for change, so I changed my mind.
I prayed for guidance and learned to trust myself.
I prayed for happiness and realized I am not my ego.
I prayed for peace and learned to accept others unconditionally.
I prayed for abundance and realized my doubt kept it out.
I prayed for wealth and realized it is my health.
I prayed for a miracle and realized I am the miracle.
I prayed for a soul mate and realized I am The One.
I prayed for love and realized it's always knocking, but I have to let it in."
~Jackson Kiddard
I prayed for guidance and learned to trust myself.
I prayed for happiness and realized I am not my ego.
I prayed for peace and learned to accept others unconditionally.
I prayed for abundance and realized my doubt kept it out.
I prayed for wealth and realized it is my health.
I prayed for a miracle and realized I am the miracle.
I prayed for a soul mate and realized I am The One.
I prayed for love and realized it's always knocking, but I have to let it in."
~Jackson Kiddard
its not going to happen.
he's not going to come over today and pull out the toys to play, or ask for something to drink, he won't help me pick up the toys or wipe up the drink he spilled. he's not going to ask me with his curious self "what are you doing"
I keep remembering that it's not going to happen. and every single time, the remembering makes me sad.
R.I.P. Aiden Cupid
I keep remembering that it's not going to happen. and every single time, the remembering makes me sad.
R.I.P. Aiden Cupid
"much, much stress results from your wanting to make things happen before their times have come. one of the main ways I assert "My" sovereignty is in the timing of events. if you want to stay close to "Me" and do things "My" way, ask "Me" to show you the path forward moment by moment. instead of dashing headlong toward your goal, let "Me" set the pace. slow down and enjoy the journey in My presence."
"Assumptions are the death of any relationship"
If you think you know what is going on inside someone else's head, think again. We imagine that we have the power to read one another's mind, when all we are really doing is reading our own.
It's a great self-defense mechanism but no substitute for actual communication. The very best way to know what is really on someone's mind - ask them.
If you think you know what is going on inside someone else's head, think again. We imagine that we have the power to read one another's mind, when all we are really doing is reading our own.
It's a great self-defense mechanism but no substitute for actual communication. The very best way to know what is really on someone's mind - ask them.
Be your own Valentine: Love yourself
Make this day one of pampering yourself. Indulge in the romantic-comedy cliche' of a bubble bath by candlelight. Give yourself a pedicure. Buy a new shade of lipstick. Book a massage. Buy yourself flowers. Challenge the notion that roses and romance are only for those with significant others, and treat yourself to the little things that make you feel special - because you are.
~Jade Campbell
#nowplaying: Whitney Houston
"learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all"
"....and the Lord ask me what I did with my life, I will say I spent it with you"
"see I'm mooooving on, and I refuse to turn back"
"....and the Lord ask me what I did with my life, I will say I spent it with you"
"see I'm mooooving on, and I refuse to turn back"
he's out there somewhere
Only pure unadulterated anticipation can make a woman swoon over a stranger like that. Why wouldn’t she? She’s known him more than anyone can ever know him, this man she’s never met. He’s been existing in her head for years now, he appears more clearly in the nooks and corners of every part of her wandering heart.
She walks to her bedside table, switches on the small lamp, and confidently pulls out “The List” from the top drawer. Scrolling down the page with her eyes, she throws her head back, bursting into laughter. She’s in love with him, she cannot lie. Neither can she wait to meet this warrior of a man.
he puts family first
he is polite to his mother and respectful to his father
he has eyes for me only
he works hard
he is humble
he wants the best for me and our children
he does not swear in front of our children
his love for me and our children is unconditional
he is a human jungle gym for our children
he will find the time for our children
he helps with our children at bedtime
he is passionate about our family
he is a good leader
he is disciplined
he is not one to complain
I can trust his judgement
he does the right thing even when he does not want to
he tries to please me
he is organized
I can tell him my deepest secret
he does not judge me
he respects my past and knows I don't live there anymore
he heals me
he knows the real me
he accepts me
he shares his deepest secrets, dreams and hopes with me alone
he loves to get his hands dirty
he is adventurous
he is dependable
he takes command
he can sweet talk me
he is a saver
he is a spender
he encourages me
he can fix anything
he knows when to call a repairman
he is a cutie
he is a snuggler
he asks my opinion
he is in awe at our children
he is committed to our marriage
he is realistic
he surprises me with flowers and gifts
he compliments me
he is a good guy
even when I am wrong he is still kind
he chooses his words gently when I am upset
he is consistent
he cooks
he can clean
he is my all around "Handy Man"
he has simple tastes
he is attracted to me and only me
he has a sweet smile
he is passionate
he does not makes excuses
he knows me
he is a great bug killer
he will help with the laundry
he touches me in all the right ways, and in all the right places
he loves me as we get older
he is a good man but he strives to be better
he values my job as a wife and mother
he is encouraging to our children
he does not belittle me or our children
his eyes does not stray
he does not cheat on me
he does not drink (too much)
he never does drugs (only the OTC ones)
he gets whats important in life
he would do anything to keep me smiling
he would lay down his life for me and our children
his arms are protective
he is strong
he is a beautiful man
he is a phenomenal lover
he would rather be with me and our children than any where else
he pursues a relationship with God
he rolls with the punches
he is a trusted friend
he would give a stranger the shirt off of his back
he is honest
he is not a showoff
he has "it" together
he is always prepared
he is a great provider
he sees thing to be done and does it
he is creative
he calls if he is running late
he is a great hugger
he gives good back rubs
he is happy to work behind the scenes
he makes me laugh
he has a good heart
his kisses leave me breathless
his love leave me weak for more
he is honorable
he takes out the garbage
when he makes decisions he considers the needs of our family first
he is irresistible
he is kind
he has my heart and knows how to handle it with care
he is respected at work
he is a great boss
he is a good employee
he is a man of his word
he desires to be the best husband and father he can be
he is a good companion
he chose me
One day … and hopefully soon … this man she already loves will be hers to keep ….
She hasn’t met him yet, but someday she will.
She walks to her bedside table, switches on the small lamp, and confidently pulls out “The List” from the top drawer. Scrolling down the page with her eyes, she throws her head back, bursting into laughter. She’s in love with him, she cannot lie. Neither can she wait to meet this warrior of a man.
he puts family first
he is polite to his mother and respectful to his father
he has eyes for me only
he works hard
he is humble
he wants the best for me and our children
he does not swear in front of our children
his love for me and our children is unconditional
he is a human jungle gym for our children
he will find the time for our children
he helps with our children at bedtime
he is passionate about our family
he is a good leader
he is disciplined
he is not one to complain
I can trust his judgement
he does the right thing even when he does not want to
he tries to please me
he is organized
I can tell him my deepest secret
he does not judge me
he respects my past and knows I don't live there anymore
he heals me
he knows the real me
he accepts me
he shares his deepest secrets, dreams and hopes with me alone
he loves to get his hands dirty
he is adventurous
he is dependable
he takes command
he can sweet talk me
he is a saver
he is a spender
he encourages me
he can fix anything
he knows when to call a repairman
he is a cutie
he is a snuggler
he asks my opinion
he is in awe at our children
he is committed to our marriage
he is realistic
he surprises me with flowers and gifts
he compliments me
he is a good guy
even when I am wrong he is still kind
he chooses his words gently when I am upset
he is consistent
he cooks
he can clean
he is my all around "Handy Man"
he has simple tastes
he is attracted to me and only me
he has a sweet smile
he is passionate
he does not makes excuses
he knows me
he is a great bug killer
he will help with the laundry
he touches me in all the right ways, and in all the right places
he loves me as we get older
he is a good man but he strives to be better
he values my job as a wife and mother
he is encouraging to our children
he does not belittle me or our children
his eyes does not stray
he does not cheat on me
he does not drink (too much)
he never does drugs (only the OTC ones)
he gets whats important in life
he would do anything to keep me smiling
he would lay down his life for me and our children
his arms are protective
he is strong
he is a beautiful man
he is a phenomenal lover
he would rather be with me and our children than any where else
he pursues a relationship with God
he rolls with the punches
he is a trusted friend
he would give a stranger the shirt off of his back
he is honest
he is not a showoff
he has "it" together
he is always prepared
he is a great provider
he sees thing to be done and does it
he is creative
he calls if he is running late
he is a great hugger
he gives good back rubs
he is happy to work behind the scenes
he makes me laugh
he has a good heart
his kisses leave me breathless
his love leave me weak for more
he is honorable
he takes out the garbage
when he makes decisions he considers the needs of our family first
he is irresistible
he is kind
he has my heart and knows how to handle it with care
he is respected at work
he is a great boss
he is a good employee
he is a man of his word
he desires to be the best husband and father he can be
he is a good companion
he chose me
One day … and hopefully soon … this man she already loves will be hers to keep ….
She hasn’t met him yet, but someday she will.
#nowPlaying: Jessica Simpson, I want to love you forever
"Helen, if I'm away from you for more than an hour, I can't stop thinking about you. I carry you in my spirit. I pray for you more than I pray for myself. I've got it so bad for you I'd... I'd go to the grocery store and buy your feminine products, I swear I would." - Orlando
*Diary of a Mad Black Woman
2012 Mission Statement
To make a happy home and family.
To help family and friends.
To get healthy and fit.
To read. To learn. To just be.
To have integrity in everything that I do
To be thankful. To be patient. To be faithful. To set an example.
To pray.
To help family and friends.
To get healthy and fit.
To read. To learn. To just be.
To have integrity in everything that I do
To be thankful. To be patient. To be faithful. To set an example.
To pray.
Pet Peeves are those anthills that you turn into mountains because it somehow presses your buttons and takes you on a first class trip to angryville.
I have a few pet peeves but one that really irks the fck out of me is “when someone blows their nose in my presence" – eff, eff now, excuse yourself and go lets say in the bathroom?
Its rare moments like these where I get the urge to step out of character, and slide tackle a crab upside their head. *woosah* zen habits don’t seem to cure these vile acts from getting under my skin …
A girl who lives, laughs and loves.
Nothing holding her down, she listens to her heart and stretches far to reach her dreams.
Placing all hopes and trust into something higher, she sees the light of inspiration and takes the leap of faith.
She is focused, determined, grounded and moving forward, never stopping to looking back.
She holds on to no frustration but thrives on every experience as growth.
She is beautiful. She is beautiful. She is beautiful.
She is YOU
Nothing holding her down, she listens to her heart and stretches far to reach her dreams.
Placing all hopes and trust into something higher, she sees the light of inspiration and takes the leap of faith.
She is focused, determined, grounded and moving forward, never stopping to looking back.
She holds on to no frustration but thrives on every experience as growth.
She is beautiful. She is beautiful. She is beautiful.
She is YOU
Someday isn’t real, but its real to me
“Someday.” *Ahh. The lies we tell ourselves when we want what we truly want but don’t believe we can have it*
Someday never happens because life just doesn’t work that way, but I will remain hopefull that my Someday will come sooner than later.
#nowPlaying: Monica ft. Rick Ross and Lil Kim, Anything to find you
"Gotta know, Is he out there some where, is he out there waiting for me, for me
Is he out there some where, is he out there waiting for me ....."
Is he out there some where, is he out there waiting for me ....."
My hair stylist was in a talkative mood today he said “You nice girl. You have boyfriend?”. “No”. “Why?” He seemed so bewildered and in shocked. I shrugged, still too traumatised to muster up an answer that wasn’t monosyllabic. “Anyway you young, got lots of time” I gave him a smile and he responded with a knowing laugh.
I think we had a moment.
#nowPlaying: Etta James
Sunday Kind of Love
Misty Blue
All I could do was cry - Beyonce (Cadillac Records)
I'd Rather go blind - Beyonce (Cadillac Records)
At Last - Beyonce (Cadillac Records)
Misty Blue
All I could do was cry - Beyonce (Cadillac Records)
I'd Rather go blind - Beyonce (Cadillac Records)
At Last - Beyonce (Cadillac Records)
'Expectation is the root of all heartache.' - William Shakespeare
My policy is "Depend on no one". It isn't a very good policy but I've seen where people can be spiteful at times.
In no particular order ... *note to self*
1) Preserve your sexy
All women need to preserve their sexy. Not for men, but for themselves. The more you preserve your sexy and embrace yourself ... the more attractive you become. It's a virtuous cycle.
2) If "he's not that into you" ... find someone else or remain content with yourself
3) Raise your standards.
Apparently women are too picky. Myth! We're not picky enough. I personally think all women should raise the bar. Expect more! Expect more respect, more kindness, more love, more cake, more *insert virtue*
4) Become More
If we expect more, we’ve got to become more. Want more respect? Be more respectful. Expect more love? Be more loving.
5) Don't tell ALL your friends
Everyone doesn't need to know what's going in your love life. Know what to keep to yourself.
6) Own Your Power
You can not pretend to be anything less than you are. You are so huge. You can’t go around dimming your light just to be walking with someone else. What you really want is to be completely full of yourself so that your cup runneth over so you give it to other people. Not in an arrogant way but so that you absolutely own your own power. OWN YOUR OWN POWER! ~Oprah Winfrey
7) Take each day as it comes and enjoy the moment
1) Preserve your sexy
All women need to preserve their sexy. Not for men, but for themselves. The more you preserve your sexy and embrace yourself ... the more attractive you become. It's a virtuous cycle.
2) If "he's not that into you" ... find someone else or remain content with yourself
3) Raise your standards.
Apparently women are too picky. Myth! We're not picky enough. I personally think all women should raise the bar. Expect more! Expect more respect, more kindness, more love, more cake, more *insert virtue*
4) Become More
If we expect more, we’ve got to become more. Want more respect? Be more respectful. Expect more love? Be more loving.
5) Don't tell ALL your friends
Everyone doesn't need to know what's going in your love life. Know what to keep to yourself.
6) Own Your Power
You can not pretend to be anything less than you are. You are so huge. You can’t go around dimming your light just to be walking with someone else. What you really want is to be completely full of yourself so that your cup runneth over so you give it to other people. Not in an arrogant way but so that you absolutely own your own power. OWN YOUR OWN POWER! ~Oprah Winfrey
7) Take each day as it comes and enjoy the moment
I dont offer advice. EVER. I use to but now *bleh*
5 reasons why I don’t give advice:
1. 99.99% of the time the person who wants the advice knows exactly what they are going to do anyway.
2. People will generally use the advise you give them to counter-criticize you. Yes I have been called self-righteous and judgmental.
3. People generally don’t want advice; they want a sounding board.
4. Your advice could be wrapped in hundred dollar bills … if a person isn’t ready to receive the life lesson they won’t get it.
5. Sometimes giving advice is like the equivalent of peddling bullshit. Often times where something may have worked for you; it won’t work with others.
5 reasons why I don’t give advice:
1. 99.99% of the time the person who wants the advice knows exactly what they are going to do anyway.
2. People will generally use the advise you give them to counter-criticize you. Yes I have been called self-righteous and judgmental.
3. People generally don’t want advice; they want a sounding board.
4. Your advice could be wrapped in hundred dollar bills … if a person isn’t ready to receive the life lesson they won’t get it.
5. Sometimes giving advice is like the equivalent of peddling bullshit. Often times where something may have worked for you; it won’t work with others.
twenty-twelve
A YEAR TO....
Experience. Dream. Risk. Close your eyes and jump. Enjoy the free fall. Choose exhilaration over comfort. Choose magic over predictability. Choose potential over safety. Wake up to the magic of everyday life. Make friends with your intuition. Trust your gut. Discover the beauty of uncertainty. Know yourself fully before you make promises to another. Make millions of mistakes so that you will know how to choose what you really need. Know when to hold on and when to let go. Love hard and often and without reservation. Seek knowledge. Open yourself to possibility. Keep your heart open, your head high and your spirit free. Embrace your darkness along with your light. Be wrong every once and a while, and don’t be afraid to admit it. Awaken to the brilliance in ordinary moments. Tell the truth about yourself no matter what the cost. Own your reality without apology. See goodness in the world. Be Bold Be Fierce. Be Grateful. Be Wild, Crazy and Gloriously Free. Be You.
I like to reflect on my life and what I have accomplished up to this point. Usually, I’d get pretty down on myself. This year, however, feels different. I recognize that God has brought me a long, long way. I don’t say this arrogantly or like I have everything figured out; and my life is just peaches and cream, because its not, but rather to simply state that I have achieved some things in my life thus far, and I humbly and gratefully acknowledge that. I am finally on the road of personal growth and success and have found my niche in life and plan to put it to great use.
*I took responsibility over my actions and learned to stop blaming my past and others for the setbacks and troubles I got myself into.
*A relationship that was full of doubt and had been to hell and back ended bad (amicably)
*I found solace in being alone (relationship wise) for the first time in years and really at this point I have no complaints. I have been a serial monogamist since I first started dating practically and it feels good to not have the pressure of being good enough for someone else or living by some one's standards and semi-control.
Man, I feel like a woman, a woman who knows what she wants, and is on the path of obtaining it. I will not settle for anything less than I deserve in life, relationships, career, friendships, etc. Our time here on earth is soooo freaking precious and although sometimes feels like an eternity, it goes by like lighting and can be over in the blink of an eye.
If I make it to be old and gray I want to be able to look back and smile, be proud of, and have the peace that I tried my best to live the unique, fascinating, happy life I was intended to live.
Loving She.
*I took responsibility over my actions and learned to stop blaming my past and others for the setbacks and troubles I got myself into.
*A relationship that was full of doubt and had been to hell and back ended bad (amicably)
*I found solace in being alone (relationship wise) for the first time in years and really at this point I have no complaints. I have been a serial monogamist since I first started dating practically and it feels good to not have the pressure of being good enough for someone else or living by some one's standards and semi-control.
Man, I feel like a woman, a woman who knows what she wants, and is on the path of obtaining it. I will not settle for anything less than I deserve in life, relationships, career, friendships, etc. Our time here on earth is soooo freaking precious and although sometimes feels like an eternity, it goes by like lighting and can be over in the blink of an eye.
If I make it to be old and gray I want to be able to look back and smile, be proud of, and have the peace that I tried my best to live the unique, fascinating, happy life I was intended to live.
Loving She.
Soul Symphony #2: Lady Lighthouse
// ♥ \\
She has faced trials, disappointments and triumphs.
She has weathered many storms.
Some on behalf of family and community;
some simply because she dared to be born.
But the winds, rain, and fog
and the sweeping undercurrents of a rocky sea
have only helped to grow and ground her
into the woman she was born to be.
The Soul of a Woman is a towering lighthouse,
a bridge that has been gracefully transformed.
She guides others across the rocky seas of life,
teaching them to persevere in times of storm.
\\ ♥ //
~Dr. Nesha Jenkins-Tate
Still learning,
-everything doesn't happen when you want it
-laughing is so therapeutic
-to trust my instincts
-to let go sooner, somethings just aren't meant to hold on to
-that even though we are apart, I still like him
-when opportunity knocks, rush to open the door
-I am better off than a whole lot of people, so I need to stop feeling sorry for myself
-family can take any form (friends and strangers)...and that not such a bad thing
-to breathe deeply, and exhale
-to not be afraid of threats, to live for the moment, to prepare for the end
-laughing is so therapeutic
-to trust my instincts
-to let go sooner, somethings just aren't meant to hold on to
-that even though we are apart, I still like him
-when opportunity knocks, rush to open the door
-I am better off than a whole lot of people, so I need to stop feeling sorry for myself
-family can take any form (friends and strangers)...and that not such a bad thing
-to breathe deeply, and exhale
-to not be afraid of threats, to live for the moment, to prepare for the end
Now playing: No cigarette smoking (in my room) Stephen Marley ft. Melanie Fiona
Tell me what am I supposed to do
Why you got me sitting in here waiting on you
Baby hurry hurry come back
And give me some love this afternoon
Stephen Marley feat. Melanie Fiona - No... by Reggae_Vibe
Why you got me sitting in here waiting on you
Baby hurry hurry come back
And give me some love this afternoon
Stephen Marley feat. Melanie Fiona - No... by Reggae_Vibe
Life is going to be a challenge. There will be rough times, difficult situations, things to fall into, major obstacles, hurdles, stumbling, blocks, forks in the road, knives in the back, mountains to climb, things to get over, oppositions to resolve, unpleasantness to face, feelings to understand, disappointments to accept, mysteries to solve, wonders to unfold and promises to keep to yourself. Now that you know what to expect, prepare yourself. Get ready. The only way to get to where you want to be is to do what needs to be done to get there. Do it fast. Do it slow. Do it right. Do it up. Do it in the daylight. Do it by the moonlight. Do it alone. Do it with others. Do it for free. Get paid to do it. Do it with others. Do it for the world. The moment you give up on doing it, it will never get done.
Iyanla Vanzant Acts Of Faith
Women are the beauty of life; her heart colors every rainbow, her soul brightens an angel’s sky. A woman’s beauty is her heart, she has pride and dignity and that is not to be taken away from her, she is to be respected and loved truthfully and she is not to be abused period. She is to be appreciated for the love that shines from her heart and for the beautiful glow of her soul. Never take a woman’s heart for granted for all she dreams for is unconditional love. A woman’s beauty is a love undefined
~Lee Held
~Lee Held
The Empowered Woman, she moves through the world
with a sense of confidence and grace.
Her once reckless spirit now tempered by wisdom.
Quietly, yet firmly, she speaks her truth without doubt or hesitation
and the life she leads is of her own creation.
She now understands what it means to live and let live.
How much to ask for herself and how much to give.
She has a strong, yet generous heart
and the inner beauty she emanates truly sets her apart.
Like the mythical Phoenix,
she has risen from the ashes and soared to a new plane of existence,
unfettered by the things that once that posed such resistance.
Her senses now heightened, she sees everything so clearly.
She hears the wind rustling through the trees;
beckoning her to live the dreams she holds so dearly.
She feels the softness of her hands
and muses at the strength that they possess.
Her needs and desires she has learned to express.
She has tasted the bitter and savored the sweet fruits of life,
overcome adversity and pushed past heartache and strife.
And the one thing she never understood,
she now knows to be true,
it all begins and ends with you.
~Author Unkown
with a sense of confidence and grace.
Her once reckless spirit now tempered by wisdom.
Quietly, yet firmly, she speaks her truth without doubt or hesitation
and the life she leads is of her own creation.
She now understands what it means to live and let live.
How much to ask for herself and how much to give.
She has a strong, yet generous heart
and the inner beauty she emanates truly sets her apart.
Like the mythical Phoenix,
she has risen from the ashes and soared to a new plane of existence,
unfettered by the things that once that posed such resistance.
Her senses now heightened, she sees everything so clearly.
She hears the wind rustling through the trees;
beckoning her to live the dreams she holds so dearly.
She feels the softness of her hands
and muses at the strength that they possess.
Her needs and desires she has learned to express.
She has tasted the bitter and savored the sweet fruits of life,
overcome adversity and pushed past heartache and strife.
And the one thing she never understood,
she now knows to be true,
it all begins and ends with you.
~Author Unkown
The Strength of a Man
The strength of a man
isn't seen in the width
of his shoulders.
It's seen in the width
of his arms that circle you..
The strength of a man
isn't in the deep tone
of his voice.
It's in the gentle
words he whispers...
The strength of a man
isn't how many buddies he has.
It's how good a buddy
he is with his kids...
The strength of a man isn't
in how respected he is at work.
It's in how respected
he is at home...
The strength of a man
isn't in how hard he hits.
It's in how tender
he touches...
The strength of a man
isn't in the hair on his chest.
It's in his Heart,
that lies within his chest...
The strength of a man
isn't how many women he's loved.
It's in can he be
true to one woman...
The strength of a man
isn't in the weight he can lift.
It's in the burdens
he can carry...
~Author Unknown
isn't seen in the width
of his shoulders.
It's seen in the width
of his arms that circle you..
The strength of a man
isn't in the deep tone
of his voice.
It's in the gentle
words he whispers...
The strength of a man
isn't how many buddies he has.
It's how good a buddy
he is with his kids...
The strength of a man isn't
in how respected he is at work.
It's in how respected
he is at home...
The strength of a man
isn't in how hard he hits.
It's in how tender
he touches...
The strength of a man
isn't in the hair on his chest.
It's in his Heart,
that lies within his chest...
The strength of a man
isn't how many women he's loved.
It's in can he be
true to one woman...
The strength of a man
isn't in the weight he can lift.
It's in the burdens
he can carry...
~Author Unknown
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 give,
the passion that she shows;
And the beauty of a woman
with passing years only grows.
~ Maya Angelou
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 give,
the passion that she shows;
And the beauty of a woman
with passing years only grows.
~ Maya Angelou
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than,
It seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.
~Author unKnown
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest, if you must, but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than,
It seems to a faint and faltering man,
Often the struggler has given up,
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far,
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--
It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.
~Author unKnown
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)