House Of Loko

LOL donates to Charity

2017-02-10T00:52:00.002+00:00

This week has been amazing!! Despite being hectic, it has been absolutely fulfilling. Finally LOL, an annual charity event that I host made good its promise to make monetary donation to Samaritans.

Samaritans is a non profit organisation which provides support to persons affected by Suicide and I was deeply honoured to make a contribution in my "little way" but borrowing the tag line of one of the biggest super market lines in Europe "EVERY LITTLE HELPS.

Words can not truly express how I felt that Tuesday as I shared with the representatives of the charity group on the vision behind LOL and why I chose Samaritans as one of the beneficiaries of my fund raising

Trust me I gladly shared.

LOL (Laugh Out Loud) is an annual comedy event I organise to promote positive mental well being through entertainment. It was borne in 2014 out of several reasons but chiefly in obedience to God. The 3rd edition of the event aptly titled "LOL 3"was to commemorate 3 years of impact as well as raise funds for Samaritans and St.Laserians school for special needs children. At the second edition in 2015, all monies raised chiefly from ticket sales all went to the school to support their great work with "special children" despite cut backs in government spending. I know this for sure because my son attends the school so I thought whichever way I could help I WILL.

So since inception LOL has been driven by charity and the favour of God with help coming from friends and well wishers who believe in the vision with me. At the last LOL, I went from store to store, spoke with strangers and practically begged to achieve my vision no matter the weather with my young son in tow but I didn't mind. I finally found use for all the plenty certificates that I've gathered over the years...in fact I'm the real LOL!

On a serious note, it had nothing to do with skills just PASSION; a heart to help those who are "going through" and GRACE of God. I am simply a vessel glad to be in the lord's service.

As I shared my story and vision with the women in that cosy reception area' what I saw in their eyes words still fail me to express.
I left that building with a bounce to my step and awe at what God can do with a life broken and yielded to him-warts and all (in my case seven fingers and a colourful past)

LOL is a vision inspired by God to restore joy and laughter into the lives of His children who have been robbed because that is what any form of mental health challenge does IT ROBS. LOL is still a small part of the greater picture and I am grateful that God is the Master Artist.
Next stop is St. Laserians. I heard they've got something great planned.

Start your day right.

2017-02-06T14:24:00.001+00:00

Thank God Its Monday! Remember every day is a good day to be happy irrespective of what day is or what it holds.

Like I always say "If God bring you to it, He will see you through it" so its imperative to start the day right.

Now tell me how do you start your day? with technology at our finger tips, it is ever so easy to gravitate towards social media first thing when we wake up. Sometimes in the guise of doing a quick bible study on a mobile device, one might be tempted to "sneak a peak" at the various social media platforms subscriptions.

You very well know that familiar pull of catching up with the latest goss! ...and many times that's how "the cookie crumbles".-good intentions becomes subsumed in social engagement and quality prayer time becomes lost in the hustle of the day. Yet, we wonder why we get frazzled before the day its over!

In other to get it right, there is absolute need to do it right. The right start prepares us spiritually, emotionally and psychologically for the whatever the day might bring. In order to beat the Monday blues, you need to immerse yourself in the life giving Word of God and bask in God's presence without any distraction.

In the Word we have peace in the face of chaos that is constantly bashing our senses from the news. Sometimes it feels like no good news is news anymore and that itself is disheartening. In the Word, we are fortified with the knowledge that God's presence is guaranteed as we go about the business of the day whatever that is to you. let the Word of God give you the necessary kick for the day. Moreover, God wants to hear your waking thoughts, He is also interested in your anxious and wandering thoughts. Psalm 5: 3 "In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; In the morning I lay my requests before you" He wants you to carry His fragrance all through the days and that comes in the place of prayer.

I will leave you with these words I read a while back which since guides my morning chat with God, "Don't start with the blogs, START WITH THE WORD!.

TGIF

2017-02-03T11:01:00.000+00:00

Its Friday! Yippee!

I love Fridays and I am sure most people do too. Its simply because it heralds the weekend and an opportunity to wind down (for me that means not flying out of the bed to get my son ready for school come saturday).

However in my books everyday is a good day whether it is Monday, Tuesday or any day for that matter as it is very important to have a thankful attitude everyday. Scriptures say "this is the day (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday) that the lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it". So rejoice and be glad no matter the day of the week or what ever the day will bring. If God made it, He will take care of it. If God brings you to it, He will take you through it, SO REJOICE!

Thank God EVERYTIME you wake up as its a privileged to be ALIVE (that in itself is invigorating) and not just on a Friday. Everyday is an opportunity to make a difference in the world and that starts with a "heartitude of gratitude"

So don't let your attitude be determined by the day of the week. The days of the week are just labels and you are more than a label. YOU ARE THE BOSS. The day of the week shouldnt manipulate your emotions, YOU ARE IN CHARGE. Be excited everyday as there are blessings in store for each created day. Psalm 68:19 says "blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation" If you love presents like I do that should get you off your feet in an excited whoosh! That's more than a trailer load of presents apportioned to you EVERYDAY. That said I dare you to be thankful everyday and not just on a Friday. Have fun unravelling your presents. Remember the Holy Spirit is on hand to help ALWAYS.

Dont stop, CONTINUE

2017-02-01T12:19:00.001+00:00

Happy new month! Cant believe its the second month of 2017 already.

It seems just like yesterday when we heralded the new year with so much pomp! Time is moving and so should we as its so easy to get stuck.

For some, the new year goals never got off the ground while pen never got to paper with others and there is a third group who got stuck midway or are challenged in fully executing set goals. It does not matter which category you find yourself DONT GIVE UP. A new day has been gifted to you to continue where you left off even if it means simply starting again.
The word continue means to persist in an activity or resume after interruption. It implies the following

Persistence
Diligence
Commitment
Discipline
Strength
Motivation
Dedication
Focus

It is so easy to give up when things don't work out but it is also wise to know what is worth pursuing. The bible is a beautiful story of God's relentless pursuit of man. Despite man's nature to wander and disregard God's affection, HE NEVER GAVE UP and you cant either because we are made in God's image "And God said, Let us make man in our own image, after our likeness" Genesis 1:26

A person's ability to continues at a task reflects the worth of the task or object irrespective of the surrounding environment or circumstance and in our case WHOS WE ARE. So how determined are you? February in my part of the world is wet and windy but die hard fitness people still brave the weather in other to achieve their goals. All it takes is few adjustment here and there. So the end is always worth it even if its experiencing the simple feeling of accomplishment but its always more than that.

Your present situation might be like an obstacle course but I encourage you to give it one more try with possible adjustment here and there.

So before you give up on that set assignment here are points to consider

Reflect on the reason why you started
The worth of the project
Does it (goal) really matter
the expected end results
winners don't quit and quitters don't win (which cap fits?)
WHOSE ARE YOU

You don't have to go it alone. Find a friend who can walk the journey with you or even seek professional help. It might cost you but it will be worth every dime invested. Above all pray and the Holy Spirit will see you through. Remember winners don't quit and Giving up is not an option!

Just because

2016-09-07T23:23:00.001+01:00

I read an interesting article about a guy who who got a job after unknowingly helping an old man who turned out to be the General Manager of the company he was going for an interview at. You might say the old man had no choice but to employ the young man because of the good deed he'd done and you are absolutely right. With man its "rub my back and i'll rub your back but its not so with God.

The bible make us to know that even before the world was created God knew us and loved us. Before you and I burst into the scene screaming and causing mayhem God knew us. He'd always known about the drugs, abortion. backbiting, lies, hurts, unrequited love, the pain, the dysfunction etc. He'd known about the many times we would deliberately ignore His truths in mindless pursuits only to return broken like the prodigal son yet He is out waiting for us to come back JUST BECAUSE.....
1 John 4:19 says God first loved us!! There is nothing you and I have done or would ever do that will qualify us for His love if not for GRACE...Its nothing but grace-unmerited favour and inexplicable love.

If I were God I would have given up on me but God is not man neither are His ways and thoughts.

With man one good turn deserves another but God loves JUST BECAUSE. You don't have to slave away to earn His good pleasure but neither is His love licence to sin.
So stop trying to rationalise the hows and whys, simply accept that that God loves you JUST BECAUSE HE IS LOVE. And that settles it!!

Mind your pace

2016-09-05T18:08:00.000+01:00

The other day while I was doing my usual morning walk a woman ran past me so fast you'd think it was Usain Bolt.

For a split second I was tempted to run after her but quickly squelched that thought. I simply adjusted and continued at my slow but constant pace.

Add caption

For some people, the mere fact that I and the person that ran past me are both women was enough reason to say I can run and should run too. Unfortunately, physical attributes and similarities are not enough to join a race that a person is neither built for nor called to.

Fact is, I am not a running person but I can walk up a storm. I'd rather walk than join a gym. my strength is in walking not running so it would be absolutely foolhardy to want to run for any reason.
Doing anything simply because other people are doing it is a simple recipe for disaster. Human beings are framed and wired differently. Our preferences, upbringing, experiences, education, culture,etc all contribute to making us who we are and affect our choices. This does not discountenance recognising opportunities and embracing them or pushing oneself to be better. The emphasis is knowing and embracing your strengths and acknowledging your weaknesses. 1 Peter 4:10 "as each as received a gifts". Our giftings are different but the purpose the same "use it to serve one another".
The woman ran while I walked but the purpose is the same-KEEP FIT
The woman ran while I walked-MOVEMENT
The woman ran while I walked-DIFFERENT LEVELS
The woman ran while I walked-DIFFERENT ABILITIES
The woman ran while I walked-for all I know she might be a professional athlete (but I don't know so why the unnecessary need for competition)
Everyone has issues but some are just more obvious than others. I have a bad knee but moving anyway though not at the same speed as my anonymous friend. My knees at this time are not able to carry my ample body to run. Even if I wanted to i'd be doing myself more damage. As for my exercise mate, I am also not privy to her "issues" so will be stupid to run at her pace or even try to.
Never mind what others are doing or how except to learn from them, MIND YOUR PACE
God in His infinite wisdom has framed us all uniquely and different and it will be foolishness to desire to be anything short of His best for us.
Know YOUR innate abilities, develop YOURSELF and MIND YOUR PACE

Keep the vision in view

2016-09-02T17:21:00.000+01:00

The last thing I wanted to do this morning was exercise but I had given myself a 30 day weight loss challenge and it was just day two!! Day two and I lacked motivation to move!! Then I remembered the reason for the weight loss journey in the first place and this got me off my lazy ****** and back on track.

Sheroes Award night, an annual event organised by the multi talented broadcaster Yemi Adenuga is coming up in October and I want to look my absolute best.

Sheroes 2016

The award night is to celebrate women who inspire,impact and influence in Ireland and beyond in different spheres. Last year was amazing and this year will be more so knowing Aunty Yemi as I do

Yemi Adenuga

I had the perfect dress and have the picture of how I want to look come October 2016 and that "picture" was all the fuel to get me going

Exercise mode

Weight loss experts tell people to have a vision of their anticipated end result for the weight loss journey to be successful. The picture of the end result serves as fuel when you lose motivation, the vision will help you back on track. For me its the silver/black dress in my wardrobe

Hebrews 12: 2 "Looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith". The vision is ahead not behind. It is an onward and forward outlook. So look ahead. Every goal is a future driven event and your vision fuels your goals.
It also pays to write the whys and hows down. These will serve as reminders along the way.
Habakkuk 2:2 "write the vision down; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it".
Don't just envisage the dream run with it!! Bring to life whats on paper! Don't just write it down, Give wings to your dream.
While trying to lose weight for Sheroes night, I am enjoying the daily walk, watching people as they go about their business and getting inspired along the way. These makes it all worth it. Aside your primary motive, as you give expression to your dream you will start to achieve even unidentified lesser goals. Remember its ok to start small and work it up from there. Just never lose sight of the vision. Now time to shed more flabs!

What I wore last year

TIPS TO REMEMBER

Have a goal
Picture it
write it down
keep it in view
be committed
Focus
Determination
have a strategy
have a time frame
break it into small achievable bits
run with it
it wont always be convenient but it will be worth it

Small Matters Too

2016-09-01T15:03:00.001+01:00

I wish I had something flowery or even grandiose to write after my long hiatus but I dont. But I do have this to say "Happy New Month".

Photo by www.roccosphere.wordpress.com

Its not much but its something thoughtful, heartfelt and absolutely sincere

I was almost tempted not to post anything at all until I remembered a saying by the great people of Nigeria "at all, at all na im bad pass" which simply translates to "its better to do or give a little than none at all" and I totally agree.
Every little efforts adds up and tiny rain drops have the potential to become a torrential downpour.
You see that small idea that seems stupid, don't discredit its potential. Test the waters with a tiny dip of your feet and before you know it you will be walking on water.

Remember even the greatest idea started from the bottoms up. All it takes is commitment, resilience, a tad of bravery and you will see the potential you envisaged and amazed at the results. Ignore the negative voices and amplify the positives.
As you embrace this new month, embrace every challenge it throws at you. Never disdain the little, it might not mean much to you initially but it could mean the world to someone.
I hope this means something to you as it matters to me.

Weep not child!

2016-01-29T13:53:00.002+00:00

This year I didn't put up a post on my birthday but I had the most amazing time with the people that I love doing the things I love....EATING!

I'm the cute one in the middle

For the first time in a long time I AM INDEED HAPPY and my joy stems from the inside. I realised what an amazing life I am living and what a priviledge it is to be alive and watch the plot unfold revealing a wonderful story with me being the lead actress and the holy spirit directing.

I have a ministry that is touching lives one smile at a time ( yeah, comedy is a ministry you know..lol) and i'm living purposefully. I have realised life is not about me but how I impact lives with the life I've been blessed with flaws and all. Like Paul the scales have fallen off my eyes and NOW I SEE.

That evening while enjoying the sumptuous dinner, I desired just one thing, The Tardis. ...you know the time machine in the BBC show Dr Who!

My utmost desire was not the head of John the baptist, diamonds, husband or anything grandiose just a time machine! Oh, if only I could lay my hands on a real time machine, I would go back in time and tell the younger me, that girl that was hurt, unappreciated, unloved, rejected, emotionally and physically abused, not to worry that every thing will be alright.

I want to give that broken girl a tight hug probably squash her a little bit too hard, wipe her tears and not leave her until I see a twinkle in those lovely brown (I hope..lol) eyes. I would love to give her a much needed kick in the nether region too but that would only damage her some more. Like Jesus " a bruised reed he will not break and a smoldering wick He will not snuff out" Isaiah 42:3.

I will tell her the accident, disability, unwanted pregnancy, Joshua, Autism, every stone maliciously thrown at her, she used them to build a bridge of TESTIMONY and what a beautiful testimony it is.

I will tell her she is stronger than she looks and tougher than she thinks. In fact her life experiences make up the bulk of her comic material. ..lol. I will tell her about Laugh out Loud, a comedy platform she uses to reach out to people battling mental health issues and can't also wait to regail her with the success of Fifty Shades of Beautiful which is the charity organisation she set up to help people with special needs and disability. All these are fall out from her life experiences. See girl, In all we turn out well. Therefore weep not my child, it will make sense!

That evening, I invited the young ladies in my youth class alongside my dear friend and it was a laughter filled dinner. Through their eyes I saw the young girl I was full of laughter and dream and in mine they saw what God can do through a broken yet yielded life.

I don't know the point you are right now while reading this post but I want you to know EVERYTHING WILL BE JUST FINE. A broken home, relationship, financial difficulties, job loss, disability are all "night" time experience. It will soon pass." Weeping may last for the night but rejoicing comes in the morning" Psalm 30:5.

As absurd as it might sound, there is a purpose to your pain. It might not make sense now but it will soon. Your story matters and so do you.

Now pictures with my girls.

Folake Olasupo...my Chief Operations Officer

Girl, Interrupted.

2016-01-28T11:05:00.000+00:00

The DJ was playing a perfectly good song when the MC came on stage to make an announcement. The uproar that rended the air at her interruption, coupled with some cringe worthy expletives was enough to cause any other person to quake but not this lady. She simply apologised, did her job and left the stage without breaking a sweat and the party continued.

MC Shakara

Nobody loves to be interrupted especially when there is a seemless flow in action or conversation. Even the the best of us get cranky when our well laid out plan don't go as planned. Any interruption for whatever reason is most times perceived as a disruptive activity and not very much appreciated. But not so in every situation. For some it's an opportunity to catch a much needed break, get a breather, reappraise or realign a chain of thought or action. As a journalist, I was trained to anticipate interruptions during a news broadcast either to break a lead story or interview an unexpected guest on live TV. It was all part of the job.

The journalist''s unwritten motto just like the boys scout is "be prepared".
However despite a person's better judgement some interruptions toss us off our guards because of lack or inadequate prepations leaving one perplexed without a perfect rejoinder or follow up action.(ever seen that happen on live TV? ..absolutely hilarious!).That's like a surgeon losing his cool in an operating theatre.. .not cool mehn! A good response to any interruption boils down to anticipation and preparation.

Picture by Linda Auderer on Pinterest

Matthew 9 recounts a series of interconnected events and interjections and how Jesus responded. Jesus was having a perfectly good dinner while fielding of questions, teaching and evangelising at the same time(talk of multi tasking) when a man came whose daughter had just died came in asking for help. With out much ado, He got up and went with the stricken father. Jesus was doing something important but was interrupted to do another. While on the way, he was interrupted by a woman with an issue of blood whom he also attended to before he continued on his way to the little girl that had died. Jesus did not lament these interruptions but took them in his stride because he had aticipated and prepared for them. In fact it was the reason why he came. In all Jesus never complained at every interruption. He knew there was a purpose to them. Interruptions to Jesus were never a waste of time even the somewhat trap questions that he was asked by the religious leaders were glory moments for God.

I have experienced many of life's interruptions like we all do do but was totally tossed of my guard because of inadequate preparation and my reaction were not christlike either. . Infact my response ranged from anger, depression, bitterness and out rght tantrums! Life is not smooth sailing so its foolhardy to think otherwise. Anticipating interruption does not mean having a pessimistic oulook on life but a knowing and preparation for difficult moments in life without being fazed by it. The Bible likens such a person who prepares ahead as as wise. "Be always on the watch and pray that you may be able to all that is about to happen" Luke 21:36.
Like me, has life interrupted your carefully laid out plans through an unexpected medical report, loss, divorce, upheaval etc. Dont be discouraged! As dire as the situation might be there is a purpose to it...the bible tells me so! Next time you face an unexpected situation, smile and you shall utimately see the glory of God.
So How do you prepare for interruptions?

Pray without season
Study and meditate on the word
Be alert
Foolproof your day by seeking the guidance of the holy spirit
Confess the word.
Know your purpose and calling.
Remember your are on call 24/7
Never forget that is a purpose to every interruption
Your response matters
Have a great attitude.
Count it all joy.
Think of the bigger picture.

What Mary did

2015-11-11T11:38:00.001+00:00

When Mary broke her alabaster box full of expensive oil on Jesus, her intentions were misconstrued. She was condemned by many even Jesus' disciples for wasting such precious and very costly oil. In their beration of her "unacceptable" action, her character was also brought into question in Luke 7:37 "a woman in that town who lived a sinful life".
Despite the negativity around her and her somewhat warped reputation, there was something beautiful about what Mary did.
Mary saw an opportunity: it was six days before the passover, when Jesus would be crucified. She knew her lord would be taken from her soon so instead of reveling like others were, she chose to do something eternity would appreciate. What better time than that moment to bless her master as she knew he would not be coming that way again. SHE SEIZED THE MOMENT. She saw an opportunity and took it.

She gave: Jesus was always the one giving so she decided to turn the tables around this time. Mary recalled that Jesus brought her brother back after he had died and was buried three days. Death to man is the final fontire but Jesus crossed that frontier and brought back life. I'm sure never in Mary's wildest imagination had she thought that those grave clothes that held her brother Lazarus bound will ever be loosened nor the tomb that sealed and separated the living from the dead would ever be opened except at resurrection but at His Word "Lazarus came forth"; his grave clothes unbound and tomb stone rolled away. What an amazing love. How can one repay such feat? That moment in Bethany was her opportunity to say "thank you". The hand that gave was small but the heart that received was large.

Picture credit:www.tyrellmara.com

She Appreciated: you can rarely separate appreciation and giving. Mary had witnessed the many miracles that Jesus had performed and she'd also had the opportunity to learn at the Master's feet first hand and in close proximity. Her giving was a show of her appreciation.
She gave something of worth: the bible describes her gift as costly Infact one of the disciples put a price tag to it " why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarius and givenlisted to the poor" John 12:5. My dear, for all Jesus had she couldn't just give anything, she gave something of worth and heaven noticed.
She was generous: Mary was not miserly with her offering, the bible says "she poured a flask of costly oil on Jesus", in other words she soaked Jesus with her offering. She drenched his clothes in expensive oil!
Her giving caused a furore : Mary did not only grab heaven's attention, her giving also caused a furore in that small room. People will sometimes misconstrue your intention and even label you negatively. The disciples labeled her giving "a waste". Her giving was so much that it irked the people in that room.
It is the Jesus opinion that matters: People will always have an opinion about what you do or what you are but it is the opinion of Jesus that matters. The disciples called her generous offering a waste but Jesus called it "a beautiful thing" Matthew 26:10. I will Take Jesus opinion anytime.
Lessons from Mary

Opportunities abound around us
Seize the moment.
Appreciate
Give.
Let your giving be generous
Let your motives be selfless and genuine.
Give your best-don't pinch corners
People will always talk but it heaven's opinion that matters
Never mind the crowd follow your heart.

Wow! What amazing lessons from a simple gesture from a pure heart. My heart beats for this woman's misunderstood offering. I know what it means to be so blessed and you wonder how to say thank you, bacause this has been a long post I'll what I mean in my next post.

Cultivate a habit, have a routine and Follow it.

2015-11-07T14:56:00.000+00:00

My people say "you can't open your eyes and watch someone prick them" meaning you can't be alert and watch things slide into chaos in your life, you do something about the situation and take control. A couple of months backs, I decided to form a godly habit and stick to it. As you may know,every habit requires a routine in fact every habit is formed by routine.

Every night before my son goes to bed, I anoint him with oil and we say our prayers together. Initially he didn't mind my nightly kisses but as a typical boy he's grown tired of mummy's kisses but would rather blow me a kiss as I stand by the door ready to turn off his lights.
Everyday for the past few months, it doesn't matter how tired or stressed I am, I always anoint my son before he sleeps. Infact, my son looks forward to our nightly routine. The moment I walked towards him, he says "nointing" his word for "anointing" (My heart skips ever time he talks after years of waiting and praying for the lord to open his lips. I shared the story Here
Some days when I want to skip our routine, I feel the gentle nudge of the holy spirit to go back and finish the day right by anointing my son with oil.
Aside from his bed times, we also go through the process before he goes to school.

There is a purpose to our routine. James 5:14 says " is anyone sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him anointing him with oil"( since I have five strands of grey hair on my head, I think I qualify to be an elder..lol.)

The perfection of Josh's healing is the ultimate purpose of our nightly routine but along the way several things are happening that have been beneficial to mother-son relationship.

Our nightly anointing provides bonding moments for the two of us
Josh gets to use his words in prayers
We both look forward to it.
It's a date with the Holy Spirit.
God wants date time with His children.
We get to God at work.

This is one of the positive habits and routines I have cultivated over time. A routine is simply " a sequence of actions regularly followed" in my case for an expected end. A routine is not done haphazardly but deliberately with an end in view. Jesus had a routine. Luke 5:16 "but Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed". It was his habit to go away frequently to pray so much that his disciples took cognisance of his routine and habit.

TIPS ON BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE HABITS AND ROUTINE

Find a godly habit
Create a routine
Consistency
Every routine is deliberate
It works with an end in view
Routine is crucial in building anything.
It is deliberate
What you keep at, you become perfect in. Proverbs 22:29
Enhances productivity
It is healthy to create balance
It builds structure which is key in healthy and wholesome living.
It helps create healthy habits
Positive routine empowers.

Since every habit is built by routine, mind what you put heart and mind to; they are key to activate success.

Speak the word

2015-11-05T12:31:00.000+00:00

My son Joshua just started to speak at the age of 9. My littleman was diagnosed with autism at age two plus with added complication of no speech! His delayed speech was a source of constant pain to me and frustration for him. As he grew older; he couldn't express his needs and I had to constantly guess what he wanted or what was wrong all the time. This took a toll on both of us, so you can imagine the constant conflicts and tantrums in my house. Mind you, I throw a mean tantrum and this I did constantly. .lol.

Photo credit:www.songofthelarkblog.com

Fast foward to this day, Words cannot adequately describe my joy the day he uttered his first word! Dear friends, the Israelites were absolutely spot on when they exclaimed with joy in Psalm 126:1 "when the lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like them who dream". Seriously, this is a dream I don't want to wake up from, not even the devil can pinch me out of this....E FITTING'NT.
The miracle of Joshua has become a source of encouragement to many families that are experiencing similar challenges. I give glory to God that there is indeed a purpose to my pain. (we will talk more on that tomorrow).

I have learnt several lessons watching joshua's speech unfold daily.

Some of the words have been innate in him though dormant as he did not know how to frame them or give expression to the words.
As a parent, I had to teach him more words by pointing out objects and calling them by name.
Used the strategy of repetition to enable the word stick.,

Like any SANE mother would (emphasis on sane), in excitement I will point at anything and everything in sight wanting my son to say them loud and clear to the glory of God and the shame of the devil. However to my dismay, my son got tired of using his words he'd rather pull me or point to the desired object but my humble self was having non of that. You see not using his voice and words would lead to the loss of his acquired skills. WHAT YOU DON'T USE, YOU LOSE! PRACTICE ALSO MAKES PERFECT..KAPISH?

God wants His children to speak the word always.The word of God to a believer is an affirmation of the righteousness and glory of God. It is a declaration of an unshakeable faith in an awesome God. The believer believes in the heart (innate)and confesses(expresses) with the lips. In Ezekiel 3, after the prophet had eaten the scroll which represensented the word of God, he was told " son of man go now and SPEAK MY WORDS TO THEM" As sweet as the word was because it was likened to honey in verse 3, the prophet was not meant to merely savour the taste and lick his lips but to GO AND SPEAK HIS WORD. Ezekiel was commanded to speak the word he'd consumed to a hardened and obstinate people.
Dear friend, what is stopping you from declaring the word in your life? Don't just keep it bottled inside, SPEAK THE WORD and watch amazing things start to happen. What that mountain needs is just the word " Trully I tell you that if anyone says to this mountain 'be lifted up and thrown and thrown into the sea' and has no doubt in his heart....it will be done for them" Mark 11:23

BENEFITS OF SPEAKING THE WORD

it builds your faith
It is an exercise of faith
It builds confidence in you and God.
It brings God's purpose to bear in our lives.
It enhances spiritual growth.
Develops the inner man and transforms us outwardly.
It gives victory over sin
It gives life

Back to Joshua, you are not shutting off the words, NOT ON MY WATCH.

Love in action

2015-11-04T17:37:00.001+00:00

Editor's Note: Love has a ripple effect. When the heart is right, love is like a river that flows from person to person, effecting change in its wake. Being a conduit of love is an ideal we all must strive for. It is simply putting your money where your mouth is. Moreover it is what God expects from every believer. Reminds me of a story about a girl that chose to be the hand of change in the life of a drunken neighbour. All her life she'd known this man as a drunk, a source of comic relief for the neighbourhood. Everyone laughed at this man in his weakness until this selfless young lady chose to be the one to help transform the man. She paid someone to feed him and enlisted other hands to wash him while still seeking assistance to further help him learn a vocation . That is what I call love in action....more than mere expression of feelings! Now the man is on a full road to recovery. Let me share an excerpt from a devotion by Joyce Meyer to encourage us on the benefits of being the conduits of God's love.

Joyce Meyer

"There are many ways to demonstrate the love of Christ. When you show His love to someone else, it can soften that person's heart and before you know it, they'll be finding ways to to reach out and show love to others and so on and so on. So celebrate God's love and let Him lead you. Is he putting someone on your heart right now?
I want my love for Jesus to be reflected in the way I show love for others, even those that may be difficult to love. If I can soften one hard heart with the love of God , maybe that person will soften another's heart with love then that one will reach out to others and so on and son....And soon we'll have a love revolution!
John 13:35 "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Never forget your source....BE GRATEFUL

2015-11-02T15:46:00.000+00:00

The Internet is full of wonderful stories ranging from the interesting, hilarious to the downright absurd! However no matter how weird the stories might be, I try to keep an open mind but keep my inner filters working to maximum capacity. Don't want the silly stories taking root in my mind. I was stunned by the story of a beauty queen who went back home to thank her mother shortly after being crowned winner of a much coveted beauty crown. 17 year old Khanittha"Mint" Pheasant is pictured kneeling before her mother near a row of wheelie bins. She went down and dirty on her knees,crown and all because that was her root-NO SHAME!!

She didn't mind the rubbish or consider that her silk sash or pageant gear and golden heels will get dirty because it was the hands that cleared the dirt that reared reared her-NO SHAME.

I am amazed that the first thing this beautiful lady did was to go back home to appreciate her mother and and not throw a self congratulatory party as many are want to do-HOW SELFLESS AND HUMBLE.
Gratitude simply means thankfulness or appreciation for kindness shown.
Luke 17:11-19, tells how Jesus healed 10 lepers and only one returned to show appreciation. Before the healing they shouted with a loud voice " Jesus, Master, have pity on us". After all is said and done only one returned to show gratitude. If gratitude was not important Jesus would not have made the following statement. " were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner? Then he said to him "Rise and go; your faith has made you well" Luke 17:19. Some bible scholars say the one that gave thanks was made whole.
An African proverb says "a river that forget its source wI'll soon dry up". The Israelites forgot their source in the old testament and became prey to their enemies. People who were once the dread of their enemies later became captives in the land of promise-HOW SAD!
Think back for a moment on the mighty victories God has done for you. Miracles of healing or deliverance from the bondage of sickness or addiction. Did you remember to show gratitude?
Take time today to remember God's faithfulness and how He has seen you through the many stages of your life.
TIPS ON GRATITUDE.

Count your blessings.
Be content.
Focus right-gratitude puts situations in perspective. It says "it could be worse"
Never give up on hope.
Appreciate the little things.
Celebrate every milestone and small successes.
Sometimes it's not about what you don't have but what you do.
DO not envy- it's not really greener on the other side of the fence.
Say it-Always show appreciation.
Gratitude takes the focus off you-its selfless.
Gratitude enhances relationships.
Practice attitude daily. It will change your outlook on life and people.

Right now is a good place and time to start. Bring out a journal and start writing.

Don't just assume........INVESTIGATE!

2015-10-23T16:39:00.003+01:00

I recently read a traumatic story about a little child that was left behind in a creche when the staff closed for the night-because they thought she was a doll!! What an absurd assumption given the responsibility of care that the staff were entrusted with! Thankfully the little angel's father came fifteen minutes later to the horrors of hearing his daughter crying in a locked building. He immediately called emergency services and his daughter was rescued.

Without getting into too much grammar, a lot comes to mind on how shoddy this particular organisation was run. Did nobody bother to check that every child was accounted for before the doors were shut for the night?
They probably assumed the other person had done so. They also failed to verify that the lifelike doll was actually a doll before jumping to their erroneous conclusion. NOBODY CARED ENOUGH OR WAS PROFESSIONAL ENOUGH TO GO THE EXTRA MILE!!!
Assumption is defined as "the acceptance of a thing as true without proof". We live in an age where people assume on situations, relationships and people without adequate fact or information. It's easier to jump on general presuppositions without the necessary investigation, leaving no room for benefits of the doubts!

According to Ted Rubin assumptions unfortunately is "the mother of all screw up in relationships". Most times conclusions based on assumptions are wrong because of absence of fact or evidence. This narrow point of view in the long run has an adverse effect on relationships incuding businesses. Moreso, assumptions leads to errors in judgement and action!
The staff in this particular creche would have saved themselves this unnecessary publicity if only one person had bothered to check that the object of contention was actually a doll and not concluded based on assumption or assumed the responsibilty on another. It would have cost less than few minutes to verify their assumptions. Well, it says a lot about the work ethics of the staff involved in this horrible picture show!

Before you make up your mind on any issue or situation, investigate don't assume. Seek proof- this doesn't make you a doubting Thomas. Jesus did not condemn Thomas for seeking to see the evidence of his resurrected self, instead Christ indulged him and he will you. Remember, Gideon wanted proof too and the Almighty Himself indulged this scared warrior too (Judges 6).
Don't assume on anybody or situation, you might just find out embarrassingly wrong you are!. Save yourself the trouble....WHEN IN DOUBT INVESTIGATE. It's a mark of excellence.

Mind your pace

2015-10-20T14:17:00.000+01:00

During my morning walk, a young lady jogged past me with such gusto that I literally felt the wind rush past..lol. For a brief moment, I envied her. I wished I could run like she did but I couldn't. I couldn't because of a knee injury I sustained during exercise some years back.

Any form of serious exercise would be foolhardy on my part as it would only aggravate my already sore knee. So you see, I can't run or jog like my 'friend' but I could walk and walk I did! NO EXCUSES!! Imagine my surprise a couple of miles later when I ran into my jogging friend ...Again! Remember she'd jogged past me but fast forward a couple of minutes later and we meet again. She was running while I walked but we still managed to run into each other. If i'd known I would eventually catch up with her, I wouldn't have wasted that brief emotion envying her! ....although I was not in competition with her neither she me. Envying her was not even necessary

Though we are strangers, the ultimate goal is the same- KEEP FIT. She was jogging her way to a better and healthier lifestyle while I was walking to mine. She might get to her destination faster but as long as I dont give up and maintained my pace, I WILL GET THERE TOO. Life is a journey and all of us are on that journey. While some are walking, others are running, jogging or even sauntering along the way. The most important fact is to keep moving and never forget the destination. Dont get stuck in a rot, keep moving and MIND YOUR PACE.

Acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses.
Keep step in tandem with your strength and abilities...yours not another. Remember we are framed /wired differently.
Don't envy or give room for Jealousy.
You are not in a competition with others.
Your journey is personal
Remain focused on your path.
Mind your pace.
Make no excuses make use of what you have no matter how little or insignificant it might seem to you..IT MATTERS.

Change starts with you

2015-09-13T11:57:00.000+01:00

We all have dreams of changing the world but the greatest change starts with you. As an agent of change, you must be transformed first. You must be your own first test client so you can testify on the veracity of your claim.

I was at a business pitch for a product the other day and couldnt help but notice the complexion of the sales person. She had such amazing skin so it wasn't difficult to convince me about the products, I had fallen already! Her glowing skin captivated me and I wanted what she had. If I could take off her skin and wear it, I would have!!

Photo credit:www.everyday devotion. Com

Before Apostle Paul could go about preaching the gospel of salvation, he had a firsthand, genuine encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus Acts 9:9-19. When people saw him after his encounter with the lord, they knew something had changed.
Change is not an illusion, it is evident.
I can never forget an episode of "Britain's got talent". A woman walked on stage and said she could teach the audience how to make a million pounds to which Simon Cowell asked if she had one million pounds and she responded 'No'. The end you can envisage, Simon told her to get off the stage. You cant gift what you don't have!

The word of God is a change agent and it start with its carrier. The word of God has a roller coaster effect and it starts with you. It started with a group of people huddled in a small room at pentecost and spread to thousands who'd gathered in the city.
The Bible is full of individuals who were willing to change and in return brought change to generations. Are you ready for change? Remember, it starts with you! Be the change that you preach.

Photo credit: Www.putitinwritting.me

How to be a change agent

Be the change that you preach. Don't say one thing and be another
Lead by example.
Be passionate about your calling and purpose.
Be focused
Know your limits but don't limit yourself
Engage others...Change is impact full when it involves others.
Don't be afraid to drive change.
Change is about difference..be different.

Before you take that bait. ......THINK

2015-09-10T13:27:00.000+01:00

Adam and Eve learnt the hard way the devastating consequences of sin when they fell for the enemy's bait, hook, line and sinker! Our first family got more than they bargained for after they took the bite off that "fruit".

Photo credit: www.answers in genesis. Org.

They lost their esteemed position of authority amongst God's creation and the beautiful comfort of their home. God's original purpose was that man would live in eternal fellowship with Him in a world devoid of pain but when sin crept in that plan went belly up!! (Hindered but not destroyed). Sin hurts!! Sin drove a wedge between man and his creator.

Photo credit:www.Jonathancliff.com

But the story does not end there thankfully. The boundaries set in the word of God are meant to protect not cramp our style. The command " you must not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil" with their obedience was the edge that protected Adam and Eve till they broke it. Sin kills!! There is no pleasure outside God and His Word. " there is a way that appears to be right but in the end it leads to death" Proverbs 14:12.
Sin destroys!! After a wrong deed is done and the euphoria of conquest dissipates, what is left is like a sour taste at the back of one's throat with dire consequense and that's putting in it lightly.

Truth is, sin will cost you! It will cost you your peace, honour, relationships, health. Sin comes with a price-a deadly one at that!
So how can we escape the conundrum of sin? How can man differenciate between right and wrong? The answer is simply through God's Word and the Holy Spirit.

"When Jesus ascended into heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to be our guide. We need Him! We need his guidance to make wise choices and not become trapped by sin that hurts us and damages our relationship with Jesus. The Holy Spirit is with us, available all day long with the wisdom we need to live the rich and satisfying life Jesus wants for us" Lynn Cowell.
God's plan for his children has not changed. The abundant life of unbroken fellowship is possible with the help of the Holy Spirit. So before you take that bait, before you eat that proverbial "forbidden fruit,put it down and reconsider the consequence. Before you make that decision, think twice, It'll do you good.
TIPS FOR OVERCOMING TEMPTATION.

Flee temptation...don't argue or try to browbit the situation
Identify areas of weakness
Seek Godly help and counsel. Create an accountability network.
Think of the long term concequence.
Take yourself out of the situation .. 2 Timothy 2:22
Pray
Measure your action in line with God's word.
Remember you can't do it alone.
Depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance, wisdom and help.

Sheroes

2015-09-04T13:07:00.000+01:00

I grew up reading comic books. These books about people with super human strength were my escape from reality. I wanted more from life as a child and my comic books provided these alternate reality

I was fascinated by the comic characters who could move things at the blink of an eye, fly,live under water or even be at two places at the same time. I was even more fascinated with the fact that these super humans were as different as their powers. Superman had a red cape and could fly while spiderman wore a spandex outfit and swung from building to building with a spider Web. They also came about their powers in different ways. Superman was born a super hero while spiderman was bitten by a genetically modified spider. Most of the superheros I read about were aliens while others were normal people going about their regular businesses when life happened to them e.g the fantastic four, cat woman etc. But there is also a group of superheroes who assumed the role of "citizens police" when they noticed a need in society e.g Batman and Robin. In addition being a superhero cut across gender, age and race. In reality people fall under the different categories of super heroes. While the focus most times are tuned towards the men, a growing number of women are daily breaking boundaries. Ordinary women who in their different fields of endeavour have impacted lives with their skills and talents. Some were born as superheroes, some are accidental superheroes while others assumed the cape.
On the 19th of September, a group of women aptly named "Sheroes" will be celebrated at the Sheroes Awards night for their indelible contributions in the areas of politics, Charity, fashion,sports, entertainment, business, and events.
It's going to be more than a glamorous affair, it's celebrating women who inspire, influence and impact.
Fact is women don't get celebrated much particular women that make a difference in society and that's what Sheroes is all about.

Do Over.

2015-09-01T12:02:00.000+01:00

Wow! It's amazing how time flies. Seemed just like yesterday when the new year was ushered in. Well, it is said time does fly when you're having fun and its been an amazing year but it's not over yet

So welcome to the month of September.

I'm excited about this month because of what the lord has in store for me. I have an amazing word from the lord and i'm hankering to share with you but you have to be patient. Remember, patience is a virture, a fruit of the holy spirit and fruits are good for you..TRUTH.

Today is a beautiful day and it's not simply because of the weather. It's beautiful because of the assurance in God's word and His presence, nothing else does. It is beautiful because we've been given the opportunity to make right the errors of yesterday. You see yesterday started on a crazy note for me. For reasons I can't begin to explain, I thought my son was back in school on the 31st. Unlike his usual happy self, he woke up cranky and reluctant to take his bath which in turn got me cranky and crazy. I screamed, he screamed and the whole situation went downhill. Given my son's peculiar needs, this wasn't a great way to start school! Stomping down the stairs like naughty child, my eyes caught his school calender on the wall and I realised my error. Josh's resumption date was 1st of September not 31st of August,silly mummy! Believe me it felt like i'd like i'd won the lottery! This over zealous mum apologised to her Lil boy and made up with his favourite meal. I was happy for a lot of reason but chiefly because I'd been given the chance to start the first day of school all over again.

Don't we all love a fresh start? A new beginning devoid of drama in whatever form. A new day brings it with a fresh perspective and an opportunity to make right the wrongs of yesterday or improve on the goodness enjoyed. "With man this is impossible but with God ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE " Matthew 19:26. A do over is nigh impossible with man but with God its easy peasy! However, God will not force His will on you but requires your invitation and cooperation. Don't waste today. This new month is a gift; it's like a blank canvass and you hold the brushes and paint to colour it in the varied and vibrant colours of the rainbow. Let the holy Spirit guide your hands. Embrace every opportunity. Forget the past and love a little more. Be adventurous.
Are are you ready for a do over? How badly do you want a change? If you are ready I am. Let's get started.
Tips for a do over.

Be tired of the old toxic thinking and bad attitude
Get rid of stinking thinking and unproductive emotions, relationships
Be ready and accept change.
Laugh more, stress less. " be anxious for nothing " Phil 4:6-7
Choose the company you keep " he that walks with the wise shall be wise but the companion of fools will suffer harm" Proverbs 13:20.
Do something that makes you happy. ie exercise, learn new skills, etc.
Live for a purpose. Discover your purpose and pursue it
Live passionately and purposefully.

Let the transformation begin!!!

Don't give up on today!

2015-08-28T23:22:00.000+01:00

"I am stronger because of the hard times, wiser because of my mistakes and happier because I have known sadness. The same is true for you. Every difficult conversation you have includes someone who is teaching you something about yourself. Every trying situation contains an opportunity for deeper self reflection and learning. Every irritant, heartbreak, frustration,disappointment, fearful moment and sadness is a teacher. Remember, nothing is as bad as it seems. Nothing! There's a benefit and a blessing hidden in the folds of every experience and every outcome. So don't you dare give up on today because of the way things looked yesterday. Don't even think about it. Everyday is a new day to try again."
Culled from Mark and Angela Hack Life, " Practical Tips for Productive Living"

Between Fear and Pride

2015-08-26T00:34:00.001+01:00

Yesterday, I shared my fears about resuming blogging after several weeks of absence. I realised that by giving wings to my ideas in this case putting fingers to keyboard, the words started flowing and it became easier to write. I wondered why I was fearful in the first place?

While contemplating what to write about today, I decided to expaciate more on some of the factors that cause fear in people especially at the brink of starting something aside from the ones listed in yesterday's post.
PRIDE: In this case implies having an unhealthy consideration of one's worth or ability. This sometimes prevents people from taking up certain roles for fear of failing and being pecieved as inept or lesser than their self pre-conceived perception. This negative self consciousness is driven by pride which in turn prevents people from launching out . Reminds me of an episode of " The Big Bang Theory" when Sheldon refused to take driving lessons because he was afraid to fail...AGAIN!!! Instead of admitting his fears, Sheldon hid behind a facade of "transcending regular human activity such as driving" .

Of course this drove his friends who only wanted to help him off their rockers. His pride prevented him from doing! When pride comes between you and a feat nothing gets done. A friend of mine had to return to a job he left ages ago after all else failed. Mind you, it was not an easy decision but he had to put food on the table for his growing famity and pride alone will not do that!.

It takes humility to start from the scratch not minding what people will say. It's non of their business in the first place. Stop worrying about what people will say and start DOING. You owe yourself the right to succeed and you can only do that by being humble. Remember there is dignity in labour!
Proverbs 16:18-19 "pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall"

FEARless

2015-08-24T14:18:00.001+01:00

Before you say anything, I admit my guilt! I have been away for too long! Truth is, I am more of a talk person but I really do love writing despite being a lazy writer(told you i'm aware of my crimes 😊). I've been contemplating updating the blog for a while but at the last minute get wracked with nerves because I'd been away for too long! I worried if i'd lost my edge and instead of putting that theory to the test i'd slinker out of my office and differ writing for another time until Today. I determined to allay my fears and concerns and write something because the blog won't update itself abi!

I had no clear cut idea where to start or what to write though my head is reeling with story ideas but I decided to type away and watch the stories take shape. Sound familiar? Well this kind of feeling will resonate with people who'd lost businesses, experienced divorce or failure and are on the brink of starting afresh. You worry about failing again! But who or what told you that failure is in your future? A wise person once said it's better to have tried and failed than never trying at all, afterall nothing ventured, nothing gained. Don't let fear hold you back. 2 Timothy 1:17 " but God did not give us a spirit of timidity,but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind".

Rick Warren highlighted the three kinds of fear that limits people from reachingtheir maximum potential.
SELF DOUBT: This keeps people locked in a self prison unable to develop their potential. It is the fear of failure itself.
SELF CONSCIOUSNESS : Worrying about what people will say. In the larger picture, it's what God thinks that matters because trying to please people is an arrant waste of efforts.
SELF PITY: instead of wallowing in self pity, get out of the rut and learn from it. Afterall every failure is a potential mine of learning opportunities. Once you become fearless, life becomes limitless. Instead of worrying about how to jumpstart that fluctuating relationship, starting that buisness giving up smoking, start with what you have-right where you are! Don't let past mistakes deter you from your future. Remember the righteous will be bold as lions.
So now let's back on our horses, no use frolicking in the mud with pigs. There is work to be done, lives to be impacted and life changing testimonies to share.
I AM BACK.😎

What's your postcode?

2015-06-01T17:48:00.000+01:00

Ireland is currently working on plans to introduce postcodes into the country as part of ongoing projects to improve the existing system. This development aims to enhance and ease postal service delivery especially when people are filling forms on the Internet for international purchases

There will be no expected changes to home addresses just an inclusion of the area code for easy identification. The code system will also help enhance essential service delivery like ambulance response to distress calls to remote homes as codes will help narrow the location more

London has an excellent code system. Mind you, housing prices differ from code to code. Some postcodes are more crime prone while the more posh areas cost a pound and a dollar but in the long run worth every bit of money! Postcode maps boundaries between locales. In fact some people make a boast in their post codes...even the least attractive ones. Some people take it seriously even to extremes regarding their territories. If the postcode systems could be narrowed by labels like Faith ville, Fear arena, Confusion valley, Doubt domain, Jealousy avenue, Messed- up grove even Death Zone where would you find yourself?

Under which code label are you likely to belong or are even domiciled at the moment. I would certainly love Prosperity park where i'm rich in love and have enough to bless others with. Grace view is not a bad idea either where I am basking in unmerited favour-God's Riches At Christ Expense- a place without struggle but rest in God's immense love. Healthy Haven would be a popular code for a lot of people too;a sickness free zone. The best of them all is Redemption Camp where every home has self control, gentleness, faithfulness, patience-the whole enchiladas!Wouldn't that be simply awesome?

Once upon a time I thrived in low esteem, fear, rejection and many other debilitating emotion until I realised I had a choice to change my postcode so to say and I gladly moved. I CHANGED ZONE. Sometimes I find elements of the old life in my new home but I quickly toss them out. I have no space for depression, gossip or victim mentality, they don't belong in my new area code!

My desire for you is that in the month of June you'll shift from sickness to divine health, fear to faith, poverty to prosperity in Jesus name. You have to change location and this comes by the renewing of the mind, Romans 12:2 ".don't copy the behaviours and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think". For most people, this change is not instantaneous rather its a gradual process worth every ouce of effort. Are you ready to move? Call the removal van, let starts packing but only the good stuffs mind you.