Kennedy is a very dear friend of mine, who is just one of the sweetest persons I have ever met! She is going through a rough time in her marriage, and I have suggested that she seek God’s help. Although Kennedy is a believer, Frank, her husband, is not. I wouldn’t call him an atheist, but he is not interested in reading the Bible or attending a church service. So when I received a call at work last week from a hysterical Kennedy, all I could do was preach the importance of reading her word, praying and seeking God for his guidance. I mean really what else could I do? 

Back Story:

I met Kennedy over seven years ago at our kids’ daycare center. I believe that our children became best of friends because, they both had speech issues. I guess in retrospect, they danced to the same tuneJ Kennedy works for a prestigious law firm and her husband works for the state. Even with their high paying jobs and the ability to live the “American Dream,” I have always known them to have marital issues.

I remember the first time that she confided in me about their problems. I directed Kennedy to read her Bible and pray… As things got better, they started attending marriage counseling. The following year, they decided to buy another house and enroll their child into a private school hoping that the small class size would allow him to keep up.

Well as luck would have it, Kennedy found out very early on that some of the staff lacked the necessary teaching skills! Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not suggesting that a person without a degree can’t teach. My illiterate great-grandmother was wise beyond her years and taught her children valuable life lessons and as a result, all of her kids obtained Post-Secondary degrees! I believe anyone can facilitate a class, but it takes a special person to teach. But I digress.

After many parent-teacher-administrator meetings and four years of trying to cope, Kennedy became extremely unhappy and communicated to Frank that she was at her wits end! Kennedy was tired of coming home from work and teaching her son for hours on end after school. Since Frank only gets involved in the “extracurricular activities” and can’t be bothered with homework duties, he expressed a desire to give the school another try. Why break HIS routine for the sake of the child, right?

Against her husband’s wishes, she toured the local public school with her son, Henry, and he absolutely loved it. Kennedy decided to remove her child and enroll him into the new school system. Unfortunately, transferring her child to a new school ultimately caused a huge rift between the two parents. Frank refuses to help her with the logistics of getting the child to and from school. They really don’t get along anymore, and he has decided to take a trip without her and the child, ugh!

So, there you have it. Kennedy is a shell of her former self…She admitted that Frank no longer is interested in her, resulting in her low self-esteem. However, I know that God CAN do all things for those who have faith. I have witnessed another friend stand on that promise, and her marriage was reconciled as a result. Victoria’s story is truly an uplifting one, and I shared it with Kennedy.

Was moving Henry to another school that detrimental to their relationship? OR, was it an excuse to justify a means to an end? I have my own opinions, but what is your take? Either way, I pray that God will comfort and heal every family member’s heart.

Confessions:

Although I remained neutral in my conversations with my wounded friend, I became angry and judgmental towards her husband.

Affirmations:

I do not judge others. When dealing with individuals in crisis situations, I lean on God to provide me comforting words.

Prayers:

Dear Lord – I pray that I have communicated your message for saving Kennedy’s marriage appropriately to her. I also ask that you shield her from depression and any self-defeating thoughts. I pray that Henry is shielded from all the negative energy that may surround him in his home. And finally Lord, I pray that Frank finds the light that leads to you.

In Jesus’ Name…Amen

In every religion you will find some priest, prophet, pastor, etc. who embodies all that is good in mankind, or so you might think. For example, Baptist parishioners admire T.D. Jakes and Joel Osteen, while Buddhists have the Dali Lama, and Catholics, of course, revere the Pope.

As a Baptist congregant, I have listened to many pastors spew a bunch of bible verses and hallelujah’s, but it is all discounted once the offering plate is passed around more than once in a church service! I’m often left feeling that I just paid money to hear the word, and I have received nothing in return. To deal with my ambivalent feelings towards the church, I began to visit other religions to see if I could find a more suitable spiritual path. I have visited Seventh Day Adventist, Catholic and even a Protestant church! I have also visited a Muslim mosque at the behest of a friend, but I didn’t feel a connection. I have determined that I need to be a Baptist Christian just like my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother before me. Until…..Pope Francis!

Although I have remained in the faith, I am still open to hearing the word from other avenues, as long as, it is God/Christ/Holy Spirit centered. So when the World Meeting of Families was announced, I became interested in fellowshipping with believers of other faiths. After doing some research on this event, I wanted to hear a Pope Francis sermon in person. I needed to see the man who so many Catholics have called a game changer, a caring soul. However due to the logistical issues in and around my area, I decided to stay home and watch this gentle soul touch the world through a television set.

Pope Francis seems to genuinely care about his fellow-man. He appeals to the masses because, of his humility and compassion. These qualities make him relevant and “in-tune” to the sufferings of many. I can’t stop thinking about how he goes out of his way to make the least of us feel so important. I feel that he is truly touched by God! I literally was glued to my television all weekend long!!!

Pope Francis, I salute you. I salute your dedication and your kindness! At eighty years old, you have shown true stamina! How on earth did you accomplish so much in a five-day span? You make me want to do more for my fellow-man, woman and child. I pray that I will one day accept the calling on my life and become as selfless as you.

Confessions:

I am selfish at times and ignore calls for me to volunteer not only in my community, but also in the world at large.

Affirmations:

I am giving, kind and selfless. I go out of my way to make the world a better place.

Prayers:

Dear God, I know that I am no Pope Francis, but I pray that you will give me the humility, courage and strength to step out of my comfort zone and become faithful in the ministry that you have given me. I ask that you continue to lead and guide me along the way. I especially ask for help in dealing with people, who don’t possess the same beliefs as I do. I don’t ever want to come across as judgmental; I want to help lead them to you and not away from you. In Jesus’ Name…Amen

Have you ever awakened from a dream and believe with all of your heart that the events you have just experienced were real? If your dream was more like a nightmare and the events forced you to make a decision that seemed out of character, then you are not alone! I had this experience just last night, and I am extremely troubled.

Back Story:

Let me explain. I unexpectedly lost my mother in 2010 and as a result of family in-fighting, backbiting and other innuendos, I am estranged from my oldest sibling. You see, all of my older relatives (e.g. grandmother, grandfather, mother, aunt, etc.) assigned me as the executor of his/her estate over other family members, who thought they should hold the key to some phantom riches. Unfortunately for me, I became known as a thief, who wanted to keep all inheritance money for herself. Really??? I made it known to anyone, who would listen, that I earned a comfortable salary. I do not spend more than I earn, and I save at least one full paycheck per month, which is not an easy feat. People even laugh at me because, I cut off cable and have a phone that is one-step up from the old flip models!

Knowing all of this information, my sister began telling lies about me to other relatives/siblings. She maintained that I stole money, bonds and jewelry from my grandparents to buy my home. If that wasn’t enough, she kept telling my siblings that I wouldn’t be fair in dividing the wealth and decided to challenge my mother’s will. Every time the phone would ring I would cry because, I knew it was some new accusation that I would have to address. To set the record straight, I started confronting her with the individual(s) she told these lies to. Eventually, my sister’s deceptions came to light. End of the story, right? Wrong!

The emotional rollercoaster took a toll on my mind, body and spirit. I became extremely bitter. I questioned not only God, but my faith in him. I didn’t understand how someone so close hated everything about me! What did I do to deserve this? All I wanted to do was fulfill my mother’s last wishes. I had no ulterior motives. Since I was in so much turmoil in my own personal life (e.g. sick husband, learning disabled child, etc.), I decided to relinquish my executor role. I, in essence, gave her what she wanted. Due to her lack of income, my sister couldn’t afford a lawyer in order to handle my mother’s affairs. So, the house went into foreclosure and to this day, my mother’s estate belongs to the state.

To avoid seeing my sister, I didn’t attend family functions for at least two and a half years. It took at least another year after that before I would even acknowledge my sister’s presence. Finally during Thanksgiving in 2014, I began reading my bible again and focusing on forgiveness. I called my sister (albeit the day of) to invite her over for dinner. She declined, but my conscience was clear. It was then that I realized that God wanted me to start walking with him on a consistent manner. I haven’t heard from her since then, but I’ve decided to put it in God’s hands. If I am instructed to reach out to her again, I will do so.

Dream:

Well in last night’s dream, I began reliving the events that lead to our estrangement. This time, it included cousins who sided with my sister and refused to acknowledge my presence at a family event. I was so furious! I began cursing out everyone there! During these arguments I remember feeling sick to my stomach because, I was using such extremely vulgar laced profanities…sigh… Did I really just say all of that? Have I not forgiven her? Do I still harbor hatred towards this individual? Have I truly forgiven her, or am I just in denial?

Confessions:

Depending on the person and/or situation, I may hold a grudge or not speak to that individual, who I feel have done me wrong.

Affirmations:

I will actively practice forgiveness and model my ways after God, who forgives me of my sins.

Prayers:

Dear Lord, please cover and protect my mind, body and spirit as I slumber and sleep. Let all old wounds pass away and heal my heart. Help me to forgive others, as I would want you to forgive me. I know that I am not perfect, and I need your guidance every single day! Give me the peace that transcends all understanding. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

I must confess that I lost my s#%* (sugar, honey, iced tea) at my son’s school today.

Upon reviewing Sunny Jr.’s math book this am, I was able to confirm that two lessons were completed in one day. As of today, Sunny Jr. has attended 10 days of school, but he is already on lesson 16!!!! How is that possible??? Where is the foundation?

Me being who I am, decided that I would approach his teacher, Mrs. P, today to find out if my assumptions were correct.  Because Sunny Jr. and I got up at 5am to complete his Science homework, I didn’t have time to pray and read my word.  I am finding out that I CANNOT skip this part of my morning ritual. Every time I don’t take the time to sit at God’s feet before I begin my day, I lose my s#%*! There is definitely a correlation here.

Well on my way to discuss this issue, I played “Put your War Clothes On” and prayed.  On my way up to see Mrs. P, I passed by the school’s administrator, Mrs. L and asked if she would be around in the next few minutes.  Mrs. L replied, “Yes.”

I walked into the classroom, and Mrs. P was at the board writing out the homework.  I stopped and said, “I have a couple of questions for you. How is it possible for Sunny Jr. to be on Lesson 16, when he has only been in school for 10 days?” She responded, “It is possible because, we are doubling up on the math until we start something new.”

I stated, “Well, where’s the foundation?” I disagree with this method.” Mrs. P informed me that the direction for the curriculum comes from Mrs. L and the Principal. She further advised me to speak with them.  Out of nowhere, Mrs. P states, “I’m sorry that we disagree, but I am a veteran A Beka Teacher.” As she rambled on, I anxiously waited until she finished. (You know that Veteran A Beka Teacher stuff was the match that lit the fire, right?)

I responded, “I’m not some former home school nut mom, who doesn’t know how to teach. I have a master’s degree and professionally, I write and design curriculums. In addition, I also write corporate training instructional manuals and policy books! So, I know what I am talking about!!” Mrs. P looked very surprised and responded by saying, “Well, I think you need to schedule a meeting with Mrs. L and Principal. As I left the classroom, I responded, “I sure will.”

Sunny Jr. looked horrified☹. I felt so bad, but I had to do it. This woman should not be teaching anyone’s child until she gets her act together….I am not going to budge from that stance.

I immediately went to get Mrs. L and gave her an earful that put her pony tail in a thousand knots.  When I walked out of her office, everyone, including the parents, were staring at me.  I must have expressed my frustration very loudly :).

Confessions:

I became angry and did not hold my tongue when dealing with my son’s school employees.

Affirmations:

I don’t anger easily. I handle all adverse situations using God’s guiding light.

Prayers:

Dear Lord, Please forgive me. Help me to handle adverse situations diplomatically. I ask that you calm my racing heart and provide the words that project light and not darkness.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

It’s Labor Day weekend and end of the summer barbeques and swim parties are in full swing. To join in the festivities, I decided to prepare my own intimate cookout with just my immediate little family, which includes my husband and son.

On Saturday, I went to the Amish market to purchase fresh meats, salads and vegetables. Boy, was it crowded! Every stand had a long waiting line and tempers were short. I zipped around the market as if I had roller skates on J

Since I had not eaten all morning, I decided to wait on the pretzel line to get one of those infamous tasty, freshly baked and unsalted joys of buttery goodness. As I approached the stand, I saw a boy playing with a red Nabi while sitting in front of the stand’s window watching an Amish woman make the pretzels. When I got closer to ordering my food, I realized the Nabi was still laying on the counter! Reluctant to leave my place in line, I decided to leave my cart, which contained all of my purchased goods including a dozen of freshly baked donuts, to stop the parents from leaving the store.

I tapped the mom on the shoulder and asked “did your son leave his Nabi?” She turned around and asked him “where is your Nabi?” The child quickly ran over to the stand to retrieve his toy.

Well by this time, I had an audience. The parents thanked me at least four times, before leaving the store. As I returned to my cart and resumed my place in line, I was approached by another woman who said “You will be blessed tremendously for what you did.” I replied “I was just doing the right thing…it’s no big deal, really.”

Another woman behind me jokingly says “While you were trying to do the right thing, I wanted to take your dozen of donuts!” We both laughed; I ordered my one pretzel and left.

The woman’s comment got me thinking. How many people felt the same way that she did? Could I have ultimately been a victim while trying to prevent someone else from losing something valuable? Why did other people think my actions were commendable?

Confessions:

Due to the large crowds of people, I became frustrated and didn’t project my light.

Affirmations:

I am an honest Christian woman, who wants to spread the good news about Jesus Christ through my words and actions.

Prayers:

Dear God,

Thank you for all of your grace, mercy and love. I pray that others will walk the paths of righteousness and let honesty and love rule their lives.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

I find that as I am starting out on this journey, I’ve been doing a ton of soul searching. I’m noticing evil thoughts coming out of nowhere!  To level set my day, I listen to audio sermons and spiritual music every morning on my way to work. This process helps me to prepare my mind, body and spirit to line up with God’s word, so that I may attempt to be a productive Christian for the day… (Remember – baby steps!!)

However during my ride, I encounter several rude and annoying fellow commuters.  I can’t stand it when I am cut off in traffic by a speeding commuter! I instantly want him/her to hit a guard rail, tree or some other inanimate structure.

How evil!!! Why would I think of such a thing??? This not me. I don’t know who that person is. So, I immediately repent and ask God for forgiveness…

Confessions:

Evil thoughts plague my mind on a daily basis.

Affirmations:

I am a positive woman, who is kind and optimistic.  I only focus on good side of people.

Prayers:

Lord help me to bring my mind under YOUR control. I want to think thoughts of righteousness.  Life is hard enough for everyone; I don’t need to contribute to the wickedness that is seemingly ruling our society

Last week, I made the decision to give my job two-weeks notice, and I was really in turmoil over my decision to leave. I questioned my own motives as to whether I was leaving for the right reasons, or if I was simply being a spoiled brat because, I felt individuals were rude and inconsiderate which left me feeling isolated.

Well as luck would have it, I ended up in the emergency room over the weekend with severe muscle spasms in my neck, back and shoulder areas. The ER doctor ran a bunch of tests and found inflammation. He prescribed Valium, Vicodin, and Ibuprofen, as well as, a day of rest and relaxation.

Upon waking up from a stupor late Sunday evening, I started to reflect on how silly I was being for stressing out over a decision that was already signed, sealed and delivered! I couldn’t change it now even if I wanted to. Given the current economic environment, I realized how lucky I was for being able to find another contract position… I am truly humbled by the blessing God has afforded me.

I also realized that it doesn’t matter how others perceive me. I know that there will always be people, who won’t accept me for who I am…and that’s okay! My only concern is how God almighty views my relationship with him.

Confessions:

I became extremely agitated and allowed fear to suffocate my spirit.

Affirmations:

I am a confident, energetic and self-assured young woman.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Please forgive me for wavering in my faith. I do believe and trust you. I ask that you continue to walk with me in this long and arduous journey called life.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunny Disposition

Today, I acquired a new contract position within the IT department of a major financial institution. Am I happy? Of course! However, there is a little bit of fear regarding the unknown. For example:

• Am I leaving one annoying situation and jumping head first into another
• Will my new boss dump a ton of unattainable goals in my lap and expect all to be completed within a 3 to 6 month time span
• What about my old boss? Will he become angry and throw me out of the front door because, I promised to fulfill my 6-month contract and now he has to scramble to find someone to work out the remainder of my contract?

Why do I even care at all? I know that God’s got my back in any and all situations. I have to realize that it is not a crime to hate where you work and have the courage to do something about it!  Even if it means damaging an awesome business relationship, I still have to do what’s best for my family. I hate being stressed out every single day on my way to and from work.

My spirit simply doesn’t like my current contract position at this fast growing convenience store chain. I feel out of place, and I just can’t explain how evil the atmosphere feels to me. It’s such a strong feeling, and I’m unable to cope with it any longer. My creator won’t let me! It’s starting to affect me mentally, physically and spiritually. I find that I actually don’t want Saturdays to end!!! I loathe getting up on Sunday, and performing all those tasks that signal the start of the work week.

It’s time for a change, and I embrace whatever is to come.

Confession:

I let fear in, and it cripples my mind, body and spirit on a daily basis.

Affirmation:

I do not live in fear.

I do not fear the unknown.

Prayer:

Dear God

Help me to continue to trust in you for my strength, direction and guidance. Assist me in dismantling the cloak of fear that envelops my life.

In Jesus’ Name…Amen

Sunny Disposition

I’m so upset with myself lately. I’m constantly asking God for guidance in an area that I struggling with. I find that I am always judging other people. Really?? Yeah, like I am perfect!

The world is overrun with sin these days, and it seems like everyone is turning a blind eye and embracing it. There are serious moral issues that many stories in the Bible warn against. For an individual such as myself who grew up learning the word in Bible school, until my father decided to become an atheist, it’s an extremely confusing time in my growth as a Christian.

On one hand I don’t want to seem critical of others chosen path in life, but on the other I want to stand up and shout “These decisions ARE immoral! Read your Bible people! Turn off your TV’s, disconnect your phones and reconnect with God, please!”

During one of my daily Bible study session, God led me to read Matthew 25 in its entirety. All I will say is that if demons existed in Jesus’ time, then they are definitely running rampant in this world today. I strongly recommend that everyone meditates on this chapter.

Confession:

I became angry today when I saw a TV show trailer about a transgendered female.

Affirmation:

I am a loving Christian, who does not judge anyone.

Prayer:

Lord help me to continue to read meditate on your word. Assist me in becoming more tolerant and accepting of others, who don’t believe in the same religious principles as I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Sunny Disposition

Today was just like any other day.  Except, I decided to go to the nail salon after work. Now don’t get me wrong, I am realistic. I don’t expect to get serviced, as soon as, I enter an establishment.  However, I asked the worker “How long is the wait?”  She replied, “Fifteen to twenty minutes.” I’m like cool! I’ll wait.

Unfortunately, fifteen minutes turned into thirty. Thirty turned into forty-five minutes!! All I want is a simple polish change. What is going on? Should I walk out? No! I want to wear my brown strappy sandals that go so well with my tan capris and coral shirt to work tomorrow. So, I have to wait, ugh! It’s already late, and I feel my blood starting to boil.  I’m tired and annoyed.

Finally, I’m called to the back of the salon. Painting my toe nails takes all of fifteen minutes (sigh).

Now, I’m sitting under the dryer waiting patiently for the timer to go off…  Suddenly another customer, who had just finished getting her nails painted, comes up to the front where I am sitting to pay for her services. This woman’s credit card is declined (twice), so she begins fumbling through her purse looking feverishly for a lost $100.00 bill. I can literally see little beads of sweat starting to stream down the side of her face, when alas, she finds the money.

Upon yanking the green back out of her purse, she drops it. While proceeding to bend over, she lets out a whopper???!!! Really?? Right in my space, and you are not going to say “excuse or pardon me?” Wow, you’re just going to let that roll, huh??

I can now feel the anger swelling up in me again, and I’m about to tell her how rude she is! Just as I am about to speak my mind, I pause. I can hear a voice speaking to me saying “she’s completely embarrassed, and any snide comments would devastate her. “

It was then that I realized, “I’m not really mad at her…I’m just tired.”

Confessions:

I became extremely offended and angry on more than one occasion today.

Affirmations:

I do not offend easily.

I am extremely patient.

 Prayers:

Lord, guide my words daily and continue to help me tame my tongue. Give me the strength to resist being so angry. Help me to be more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Sunny Disposition