Relax, Reflect, Refocus...

2010-04-11T22:48:00.001-04:00

Teach me to do your will, for You are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground. I am in need of your instruction for if I heed another's, I will surely fall away.

A little bit of T.L.C - Tender Loving Care

2010-04-10T22:39:00.000-04:00

Today was a very lovely day. The weather was perfect, the sky was clear, and the ground was perfect for planting. Today, we invested some money, time, and sweat into furnishing our deck with chairs, plants, and some other aesthetics. Lowe's was blessed with our presence 3 times today and with each visit came more goodies. We vowed to replace all patio furniture even purchased a side table to go with our chairs. When we arrived home, we realized that even though our present table look worn, tarnished, old, weathered, and pollenated, it still held the promise for future use... All it needed was a little bit of TLC...someone to recognize its worth despite its present disposition. Now it looks good as use and fits in perfectly with all the "newbies". Who new that a 5 year old table would look as good as new....A LITTLE TLC goes a long way...Take time to love...

2010-04-08T23:02:00.001-04:00

There is an anticipation, an expectancy, a knowing that God is ready to manifest great vision in and around me. Lord I pray for continuous renewal of mind, spirit, and body. I sense newness and life to all things that were dormant until this time...Manifest Lord...

Dream...

2010-04-07T22:39:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had a dream so big that it consumes you?? A dream so big that you are dissatisfied when you are not accomplishing what you have been predestined to do??? A dream so big that it will take more than one person to bring it to past??? A dream so big that it takes foresight, insight, hindsight, and crazy faith???

It is said that the poorest person in the world is one without a dream. You are not living unless you are dreaming... You are not living purposely if you do not see to it that this dream comes to past. It is imperative that you seek the purpose for your existence. Make purpose your passion. Let it drive you until the vision God has for you is complete. You are responsible for stirring up your God-given gift. The world needs you and it most definitely needs your dream... So remove the limits off God and He will remove the limits off your dreams.

We know that God can do exceedingly much more than you can ever ask or imagine according to His power that is constantly work in us. Trust Him with your dreams...

5 Spiritual Principles that will change your life

2010-04-06T13:32:00.002-04:00

Who I Am In Christ:

Until you discover who you are as a child of God, you will continue to strive to be accepted. Even your self-acceptance will be based on your performance. Real security is found in knowing who you are in Christ. “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power, and that He had come from God and was returning to God …” John 13:3, (NIV). There’s real security in knowing who you are and whose you are. As a Christ follower you are:
- A Child of God John 1:12, 1 John 3:1-2
- Forgiven Colossians 2:13
- A Saint Ephesians 1:1
- Complete in Christ Colossians 2:9-10
- A Member of God’s Family Ephesians 2:19
- Chosen by God 1 Peter 1:9
- Called Out of Darkness into Light 1 Peter 1:9
- No Longer Condemned Romans 8:1
- Free In Christ! Galatians 5:1
- Christ’s Friend John 15:15
- Deeply Loved of God 1 John 4:9-10
- Secure in Christ John 10:27-30; Romans 8:31-39
- At Peace With God Romans 5:1
- A Citizen of Heaven Philippians 3:20
- Protected from the Evil One 1 John 5:18
- Accepted by God Ephesians 3:12, Romans 15:7
- God’s Workmanship Ephesians 2:10
- Saved by Grace Ephesians 2:8,9
- Indwelled and Empowered by the Holy Spirit Acts 1:8
- Able to Do All Things Through Christ Philippians 4:13
- A New Creation in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17
How To Have A Daily Quiet Time With God

One of the characteristics of Jesus earthly ministry, was the priority He put in time alone with the Father in prayer. Mark records, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.” Mark 1:35 (NIV) Luke says “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 5:16 (NIV) John records one of the most lengthy prayers of Jesus in John 17. Obviously, if this spiritual habit was an important part of Jesus life, it must be essential for yours as well. Here are some simple suggestions that will help you get the most from your time alone with God:
- Make an appointment with God—set a time and place. Jesus would spend time alone with God early in the morning or late at night. Choose a “solitary” place where you won’t be distracted. Often Jesus would pray outside in a garden. He also spoke of using a “prayer closet.”
- Consider this a special time set aside just for you and God. Learn to listen as much as you speak.
- Take your Bible and a journal to record what insights God may give you.
- Try a devotional aid, but don’t substitute it for the Bible. I recommend: My Utmost For His Highest, by Oswald Chambers; Experiencing God Day By Day, by Henry Blackaby; One Day At A Time, by Neil Anderson and Mike and Julia Quarles
Spiritual Breathing

Just as breathing is essential to physical life, so spiritual breathing is essential to your spiritual life. Without even thinking about it, you exhale the bad air and inhale oxygen to energize your blood cells. You won’t survive by holding your breath for very long; your body must exhale and inhale. Breathe in and breathe out, that’s all you have to do. Our spiritual vitality requires the same exercise. We can maintain unhindered fellowship with God if we will exhale through confession any sin or struggle we are experiencing, and inhale God’s cleansing grace that forgives and restores our fellowship with Him. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins to God, He can be depended on to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. (And it is perfectly proper for God to do this for us because Christ died to wash away our sins.)” (LB) Breathe in God’s forgiveness! It will revitalize your relationship.
Where The Power Comes From

“Christ-likeness is not produced by imitation, but by inhabitation.” You will never reproduce the character of Jesus by your own willpower. Your best intentions and New Year’s resolutions are not enough. Only the Holy Spirit has the power to make the changes in your life that God wants. The Bible says, “God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey Him and the power to do what pleases Him.” Philippians 2:13 (NLT) Just as a light must be connected to a power source in order to shine, so you must be connected to Christ for His light to shine through you. Obedience unlocks God’s power in your life. Don’t wait until you feel powerful, to obey. Move ahead in your weakness, in spite of your fears, and do the right thing trusting God’s Spirit to give you the power you need. The power comes from the indwelling Christ. “For this is the secret: Christ lives in you.” Colossians 1:27 (NLT)
What Is My Part

Spiritual Workouts – The Bible says, “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” Philippians 2:12-13 (NIV) There is a balance in spiritual growth between God’s part and your part. You are to “work out” what He has “worked in.” That means that spiritual growth is a collaborative effort between you and the Holy Spirit (the power source). God’s Spirit works both in you and with you in the process of making you like Christ. This verse is speaking to believers, not about how to be saved, but how to grow spiritually. Notice that it doesn’t say “work for” your salvation. As in physical exercise you work out to develop your body, not to get a body. God has given you a new life in Christ! He has given you the Holy Spirit to work both in you and with you. You cooperate with His purpose as you yield your life to Him daily and learn to walk in Christ. How do you do that? “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith …“ Colossians 2:6 (NIV) It requires the same faith to “continue” or walk in Christ as it did to “receive” Him. You will grow in your faith as you cultivate that relationship with Christ through developing spiritual habits (workouts) in your daily life. Here are some spiritual habits essential for growth:

Change the way you think by renewing your mind with truth. To change your life, you must change the way you think. Your behavior is motivated by your belief. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts.” (TEV) To grow spiritually you must develop the mind of Christ. The Bible word for that is “repentance” which means “to change your mind.” You repent, every time you change the way you think to reflect the way God thinks about you, sin, faith, your relationships, your finances, etc. The Bible says we can do this daily by means of His Word. “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect His will really is.” Romans 12:2 (NLT) Spiritual growth, then, is the process of replacing lies with truth. To those who had believed on Him, Jesus said, “If you continue in My Word, then are you my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32 (KJV)
Bring every thought you have into “captivity” to make it obedient to Christ. Your feelings are essentially a product of your thought life. Emotions can’t distinguish between fact and fantasy. We can choose to be led by them or by the truth, regardless of how we feel. To live victoriously in Christ, the Bible says, “We take every thought captive so that it is obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 (GW) In other words, you must choose carefully what you think about. If it isn’t true, don’t think it. Instead, choose to think the truth. “Keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable or commendable.” Philippians 4:8 (GW) This is the principle of replacement. Satan can’t deceive your mind when you are thinking on the truth. This takes a lifetime of practice, but with the help of the Holy Spirit and the truth of God’s Word you can reprogram the way you think.
Spiritual maturity takes time. It is neither instant nor automatic. You are a work in progress. The Bible says, “I am sure that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in His grace until His task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns.” Philippians 1:6 (LB) The spiritual habits you develop will cooperate with the good work God has begun in you to bring you to maturity.

Who are you?

2010-01-19T11:27:00.002-05:00

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Used by Nelson Mandela in his 1994 inaugural speech

Nine Secrets of Motivated People

2009-12-29T15:27:00.000-05:00

As we seek to prepare for the dawning of Vision 2010, many resolve to create resolutions and to see these resolutions throughout the year. I am one to also admit that I also have begun my "TO DO LIST" for 2010 but my desire is to begin and end successfully. I read a very beneficial article today courtesy Real Simple Magazine (Jan 2010 issue). It highlights the nine secrets of highly motivated people. I have done the honors of posting the abridged version.

9 Secrets of Highly Motivated People

1. When you make plans, anticipate bumps
2. Channel the little engine that could
3. Don't let your goals run wild, but work on then every day
4. Go public with it
5. Lean on a support crew when you're struggling or need motivation
6. Make yourself a priority
7. Challenge yourself and change things up
8. Keep on Learning
9. Remember the deeper meaning and the real reason you begun your quest.

Remember ALL Goals must be S.M.A.R.T.
S- Specific
M- Measurable
A- Attainable
R- Realistic
T- Time-bound

http://www.realsimple.com/magazine-more/inside-magazine/table-contents-more/january-2010-00000000026689/index.html

Encampment

2009-12-15T15:57:00.000-05:00

So God stopped time for thirty-three years
And he pitched a tent of flesh
Which he unfolded one night
And enfolded the next

And that moment in which God tread time
Lasting from the darkness to the darkness
From the sunrise to the sunrise
Was called Jesus Christ

In great pain Mary labored over God
And suddenly in merciful agony
A man burst forth from the courtroom
Into the yard filled with a vicious mob

And the mother knelt down
To wrap the baby in swaddling clothes
And they ripped them from His body
And kneeling down gambled them away

And because there was no room in the inn
She gently laid Him
On the wooden beams of a cross
Where they nailed His reaching hands

And the animals heard the baby
And they drew close hoping to be fed
And they bleated and bawled
Crucify him, crucify him!

And the shepherds on the hillside
Came to see this thing
Which they thought would soon past
And asked, “Are you the King of the Jews?”

And the wise men came to see Jesus
One brought spices, another perfumes
And a third removed his golden crown
And jammed its thorns into His brow

And in that dark Judean night
The newborn baby cried out
Wanting protection from the cold wind
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
And as the star stopped over the manager
There was a darkness over the whole land
And just before the baby fell asleep
He softly cried It is FINISHED

And in that moment of ghastly glory
When Mary lay exhausted with an empty tomb
He said, “I AM THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE.”
And in the next moment he redeemed the time.

By Lee Magness

Faithful

2009-11-06T22:47:00.000-05:00

You may have been battered, bruised, torn, subjected to insult, but God has still been faithful. You may have had plenty but now your need is great, but God still is faithful. You may be persecuted and dragged through the mud, but God is faithful. Faithful is our God. In sickness and in health, in abundance and in need, through the advent of life or the sweep of death, God is Faithful. You must know this... God is Faithful!

Transitions

2009-09-20T21:52:00.000-04:00

Webster's definition

Transitions

"1 : passage from one state, stage, subject, or place to another : change b : a movement, development, or evolution from one form, stage, or style to another"

This is an opportunity to reflect on the past, renew major commitments, and build bridges to forthcoming seasons. In this period of change, we must reassess our motives and seek new areas of service, challenge ourselves to see the true beauty in this season of loss and desire expectancy in those things that are to come.

In a period of transition, there is recommendation to do some reflection of our current position noting that our condition is essential in our succession in the next fraction of this mission until it comes to completion.

The Great Element of Life

2009-09-17T10:30:00.000-04:00

The Great Element of Life

The Ganges and Nile meet in an incestuous embrace,

As the Mediterranean looks on in utter disgrace

The very essence of being lurks hauntingly in these waters.

Waves constantly giving and taking,

The great wind breathes and stifles

Yet unmoved by the forces that encompass this core

Buried and tainted yet protected until that day,

Yes! That day!

That day, when the name to which one answers is called

When the sound resonates with a thundering clash

Life in the deep blue makes drowning seem so welcoming

So comforting when one can tell its fate before its beginning

Just to escape from that Red Hot…

Yes! Hot and Red particles that kill yet bring life

II.

I keep drifting trying to find a home

Can my heart be where my home is?

Home, where is home?

Home…

Broken even before it could be made whole,

Home

So, am I forced to carry my home with me?

Or does my home carry me?

I try to grasp land something tangible

Something to hold on to

But it is so porous; it flows through me yet sustains me,

I cannot hold it for it holds me.

I cradle it but it gives me life

I need it more than it needs me.

I am called dust,

I am called sand,

Home calls me pearl so that is what I am.

My core unshaken through this tumultuous voyage

Nursed in the barrage, while hidden in the boson of a clam.

III.

Your discovery is where this deep blue takes you

Planning your homecoming to

A foreign place you once knew

Drops you on a shore and tries to declare your fate.

Many try to consume you yet they cannot swallow you,

They lay upon you but cannot become you

Through natural and ordinary to the simple

You glisten in purity and in all your glory

Stretched across an expanse of space,

Deep and Wide

Six feet under or twelve feet high

Dead or Alive

Really doesn't matter

In either state, you made a home in yourself

Built a house with yourself

The only difference is...

Dust you are but pearl you became.

Building your Personal Brand- Here is Mine

2009-09-16T12:09:00.007-04:00

“Kimberly Lavene ‘Stewart’ Bolden”

If you “google” the name Kimberly Stewart, you will find many search results, yet none refer to me. The initial results refer to daughter of famous rocker, Rod Stewart. I have entered into the patriarchy of the Bolden clan via marriage. Yet, today, I seek to build a brand for myself with myself. The name may seem very common. Nevertheless, the quality, the features, and the style are significantly unique. This particular brand is intentionally differentiated by design and not default. You are formally welcomed to my world. This is a world, which many may find familiar acquaintance, but few rarely do experience. This is Kim’s world.
Who am I?

I am a 25-year-old Trinidadian native who is a graduate of Atlanta Christian College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration (concentration in Management). My focus is to pursue purpose. I choose to position myself among the best and the brightest in an attempt to follow the purpose and passion that has been infused within me. My ultimate desire is to be a motivational speaker and I have chosen to enter this market via the communication/leadership field.
I also have a dream... that one day I will aid in the education of the holistic student ensuring that he/she acquires all attributes needed for a successful and meaningful life.
Positioning vs. Competitors

            My teaching philosophy is that you teach students as much as they will learn. There is no limit on knowledge and wisdom for they are gifts from God.
                        “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”

Points of Parity

            - College Graduate with a Business Degree
- Traditional College Education
- A great emphasis and value on effective communication
- An interest and experience in a globally expanding career field

Points of Difference
-       A Christ Centered College Education
-       An impeccable Work Ethic- “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
-       I do not just value diversity, but I am a monument of diversity. I am evidence of someone and something great.
-       Over five years of working in the communication department for an internationally known non- profit organization. (The Family Planning Association of Trinidad and Tobago)
-       Constant Interaction with people of many varied backgrounds
-       A Diploma from the Association of Business Executives in Business Information Systems with distinction in Management attained at the age of sixteen.
-       Constantly in a Leadership/Administrative Roles
-       Heavily involved in youth and children’s ministry, which requires communication with adolescents on many different levels.
-       Highly Innovative and Analytical
-       Christian Worldview
-       Problem Solver
Core Brand Values

            My value is not distinguished by my worth, but my worth is distinguished by my values. I am an analytical young woman who is determined to raise the bar of excellence in every opportunity that is afforded to me. My motivation is the understanding that throughout life, I make valuable investments into the lives of others. If I could, I would heal the world of all its ailments and right the wrongs that have been made since the inception of time. I am not Christ, but more and more each day I come close to being more like Him. The gifts possessed are not my own but are catalysts for change in my community, in my career and in my generation.
My Core Brand values:

Humility- The ability to work at something with my all especially when it seems like no one is minding. Through my actions, my story is told.

Perseverance- my fortitude must not only be measured by my accomplishments but by my sacrifices.

Integrity- Right standing is not only inherent in this attribute but also the ability to remain balanced and whole.
Positive Attitude – My attitude would determine by altitude and application of right attributes will assure accomplishments of my pursuits.

My Brand Mantra:
Diverse, Disciplined Daughter determined to excel!
My mission statement:
I exist to unleash my greatest potential while in full pursuit of purpose for when I die I will be void of both!
My catch phrase: - Exceed Excellence!
My URL: http://kimbolden.blogspot.com

Product Strategies:

In an attempt to build my capital, time and money will be invested in to continuing learning to ensure that knowledge, skills and abilities are sharpened. Plans are in place to enter a Master’s Degree in Leadership/Education with an emphasis in Human Communication/Social Influence. Speaking engagements and opportunities for mentoring will also prove fruitful allowing me to maximize my strengths and build on my weaknesses while providing a great experience. I am a package that constitutes many abilities, talents, opinions and ideas. The way I perceive the world and life is essential in my work ethic.
My personal strategy for competitive advantage is my value proposition:
“ All that I do is done with all my heart and in excellence, for in my endeavors I am serving God by serving His people.” This value proposition communicates my brand as one of quality that thoroughly values relationships.
It is essential to develop a strong name and unique style that many are able to identify with when promoting Brand Kim. According to a variety of name books, the meaning of Kimberly is that of a royal fortress meadow that is used to defend countries and kingdoms. I am determined to live up to my name whereby all that I do illustrates a basic need to advocate for deserving parties and educate many persons via a wealth of knowledge and wisdom.

Pricing Strategy:

            This is based on value pricing. My Points of Difference allow me to be more marketable in the arena of communications/leadership. The corporate and professional world values diversity greatly and I propose to use this as a great feature when pricing this package called “Kim”.
            In Atlanta the base salary for persons entering the leadership/ education field are between $36,583- $65,797. This is negotiable especially since I desire to gain more knowledge and experience in as many disciplines as possible. My incentive is to be an asset to any group or organization. The information gleans helps build my human capital.

Distribution Channel Strategies:

            The Channel of Distribution will be direct as I choose to personally avail myself to many opportunities of advancement. There is no intermediary between the customer and me unless my contact is sourced from a career site such as Monster.com or a referral from someone in my social network.
Marketing Communications

Advertising is done via
            - Résumé
            - Business cards
            - Personal Appearances
            - Networking Sites: http://kimbolden.blogspot.com; http://facebook.com/kimberly.bolden
            - Word of Mouth/Buzz Marketing

Promotion is done via

-       Interviews
-       Volunteering
-       Internships
-       Mentorship
-       Leading Bible Study
-       Teaching adolescents
-       Teaching dance to students
-       Leading Chapel Services and Morning Devotions

Even Marketing and Sponsorships is done via

-       Speaking Engagements
-       Career Fairs
-       Personal Development Seminars

Publicity and Public Relations

-       Web blogs
-       Articles written by me or about me
-       Critique of Social/Spiritual/Financial and Personal Issues

Personal Selling-

-       Applying to Different Jobs
-       Initiating Conversations
-       Volunteering
-       Investing time and other valuable resources in people and notable causes.

Leveraging secondary Associations

There is great association with many other brands. These are the following:
-       The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago: - I am citizen
-       The United States of America- I am a Permanent Resident
-       The Caribbean Islands- Where my family is native
-       Race- Black, Afro Trinidadian/African-American
-       Atlanta Christian College- my alma mater
-       Professional Organizations e.g. Premiere Speakers Bureau, Toastmasters
-       The Christian Community at large
-       Pathway Christian School- Educator
-       East Point Christian Church- Minister
-       Liturgical Dancer
-       Wife of a Minister

Brand Exploratory

-       A survey was created to inquire about people’s perception of me. Attached is a copy of the survey and its results. After analyzing the results from the survey, it is clear from the answers that I was perceived as a highly encouraging and influential person with key leadership and teaching skills. These are very favorable qualities.
-       The Myers- Briggs and the Uniquely You DISC assessments were also conducted. My results illustrated respectively that I was an ISTJ with a DI personality. When my DISC assessment results were tabulated with my spiritual gifts, my profile distinguished that of a Primary C. These personality tests described me as a very dependable and structured person who values completion and excellence. I can be very calculating and cautious, as I tend to become more task-oriented than people oriented even though what drives me is assisting persons. My spiritual gifts of discernment, wisdom, teaching, and exhortation all complement each other.
-       Three Associations made by potential employers, friends, and acquaintances are that I epitomize diversity, I am focused, and I am very expressive.

My brand is currently in the stage of salience. This is the awareness of the brand.
Emphasis is being made to ensure the brand “Kim” is easy to be recognized and recalled. This will be done via packaging: my deportment, my heritage, my knowledge, wisdom, and physical appearance. I want to ensure that I begin my professional career in excellence and build on my communication skills.
The missing or weak blocks in my pyramid are my social skills. I can come across very anti-social or intimidating at first impression even though this really is not who I am. My life is not an open book so it takes time and patience to get to know me. I also need to make acquaintances with professionals in my desired profession.
I have made a concerted effort to get out of my comfort zone to build relationships with people I have little to no knowledge of to ensure that I meet them on a level where we share at least one thing in common.
Enhancing Brand Equity: -

Brand Building Activities that are working for me are
-       Working towards my Master of Arts Degree in Leadership and Education respectively
-       Mentoring Female Teens
-       Teaching and Tutoring (Bible Study/Sunday School/Kindergarten/Youth Church/ Spanish/ Second Grade)
-       Associating with notable causes e.g. Susan G. Komen Foundation
-       Garnering all opportunities available to help others accomplish their dreams
-       Dedication to Personal Development
-       Improving Personal Appearance
-       Taking Speech Classes and attending Workshops
Three Recommendations to enhance Brand Equity

            Joining a professional organization for e.g. Toastmasters will help in basic oratory and communication skills. Forging relationships with persons established in the field or motivational and professional speaking will also be a great asset. This helps in setting a standard for myself and is essential in critiquing myself. Competitive advantage is gained by whom you are associated with. Many of these professional associations breed men and women who are dually noted for excellence and quality. I also must be able to value criticism and use it as a building block to better quality assurance.
Both experience and education are imperative. I cannot truly impart knowledge and wisdom to organizations and persons if I have not been challenged or enlightened also. This means that I must become assertive in all ventures of my life to ensure that I gain full experience, which can be both qualified and quantified by my listeners.
I need to become a face for causes I truly believe in. This means becoming involved in community PR events, being well acquainted with laws, staying updated with current events nationally and internationally so I can speak out primarily based on fact. I can also form strategic alliances with associations e.g. Atlanta Christian College and the Consulate of Trinidad and Tobago based here in Atlanta especially since it is one of its sister cities.
Money can be an incentive but is not a basic motivation. The purpose is to learn all I can about life. The fulfillment of making a difference no matter how small is what brings me joy. Changing the mindsets of those who are ignorant simply because of a lack of knowledge is what drives me to be educated and equipped with much knowledge and wisdom. For in doing this, many are empowered and valuable investments are made. I am a philanthropist at heart.

Purpose

2009-09-11T23:55:00.000-04:00

The purpose for your being becomes the world's inheritance! Please do not abort it. Abortion is when we fail to take responsibility for the potential that is birthed inside of us. We neglect to accept and implement its purpose. When this happens, there is self destruction. Do not die with your purpose still in the raw potential stage because no one benefits.

God's Impartial Love

2009-09-10T22:34:00.003-04:00

God's impartial love

The love of God is best personified in the kinship between two people whose oife stories are the total opposite, but thrives against all odds. "Your limitation is God's opportunity." ~ Denver Moore, coauthor of Same Kind as different As me.

http://www.samekindofdifferentasme.com

Do you know Jesus?

2009-09-09T21:14:00.006-04:00

Do we desire to be more like Jesus or do we really want Jesus to be more like us? Paul describes us as being living epistles that should be read by all men in 2 Cor. 3 but this gives us greater responsibility. We should ensure that our walk is as circumspect as God wills and not drag Jesus into our mess but allow Him to clean it up. We need a real life personal relationship with our Savior & Lord where nothing can separate us from His love. Not just vow to talk about him, but talk to him daily.

Happy Labor Day

2009-09-07T21:17:00.002-04:00

In all that you do, day in and day out, please ensure that your labor is never in vain. Remember your life's work will become the world's inheritance. Work hard and work smart but most importantly work with a purpose.

On Sunday

2009-09-06T23:54:00.000-04:00

Today has been an eventful day to say the least. I taught Sunday school, went to service, ate an egg salad sandwich and Bob's famous brownies at a make shift picnic @ church, went to the 10k Labor Day weekend festival, got diagnosed with a misaligned neck, walked through Cumberland Mall, helped Wesley find some tennis shoes at DSW, had dinner with one of my past 2nd graders and her mother, played the games: Jenga and Life respectively, Lost to Wesley as is usual and now we return home with our stomachs filled and heart overflowing in joy. You, Oh God, have been so good to us. It is always a blessing on Sunday.

Standing in Your Grace

2009-09-05T22:48:00.003-04:00

All is needed is but a few words for I am always overwhelmed when thinking about God's grace. I have no clue where I will be right now if it was not for the grace of God. His love and mercy have kept me through every challenge, storm, and opportunity. Let us take time to reflect on His grace. Thank him for it!!!

Romans 5:14-16
"Still, everyone died—from the time of Adam to the time of Moses—even those who did not disobey an explicit commandment of God, as Adam did. Now Adam is a symbol, a representation of Christ, who was yet to come. But there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God, even though we are guilty of many sins."

Rest

2009-09-04T22:55:00.002-04:00

When night has come and the bones are weary,
The body aches as the days are dreary.
Yet through it all, I am forced to wonder
Is it just for sleep or a blissful ponder .

But through the day where sleep is shy,
I must admit, I can't deny
This one aches for relaxation
A peace of knowing there is a heaven.

With refreshment and redemption
A chance to review
All that has happened and the things I knew

When time is taken to be restored
The precious time with my Majestic Lord
When all that seems timely
Fades as a whimper and what I seek
I can't remember

Yet all I hear in just a whisper,
The shepherd speaks as He draws me nearer,

He says, "Just Rest!"

Driven or Called

2009-09-03T14:28:00.000-04:00

Many of us boast to being highly driven person in pursuit of a purpose and life calling. This in itself is not a bad thing. It, however, becomes detrimental when you are blind-sided by the drive to complete an assignment that you fail to realize that you were never chosen nor equipped for the task. You fight and press to ensure the pieces fit into a mold you thought was perfect when the truth of the matter is: you weren't the one called for this particular project.

The Driven work hard.
The Called work smart.

The Driven see power in possessions.
The Called see power in purpose.

The Driven are burdened by the busyness of business.
The Called banished all busyness that will bring a burden to their business.

The Driven desire a powerful life.
The Called desire the most rewarding life.

The Driven seek to maximize their resource.
The Called seek instruction from the Source.

The Driven complain about clutter, happenstance, and hurriedness.
The Called commend those for their commitment, honesty, and handwork.

The Driven, famished, retorts, "There is never enough hours in a day to complete this task!"
The Called, fulfilled, responds, "What a day to complete this task!"

The Driven comments: - Today is a gift that is why we call it the present.
The Called replies: - Today in His presence surpasses even the present.

The Driven end their day in a busy, endless pursuit focused on seeking dead things.
The Called begin their day in a calm, calculated pursuit focused on seeking the Living One.

Driven or Called: Choose One!

Recommendation: Ordering Your Private World by Gordon Macdonald
http://www.amazon.com/Ordering-Private-World-Gordon-MacDonald/dp/0785288643

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus - There is something about that name!

2009-09-02T22:30:00.000-04:00

To this day, it is still a wonder when thinking about the power packed name of Jesus. Is at this name, all knees will bow and tongues confess that He is Lord. We are encouraged to glorify this name through our worship. My question is this.... How can we truly worship Jesus without an intimate relationship? You can call me by my name as much as you want but I may never respond, especially if I do not know you. Let us make every effort to connect with our Savior daily as He reveals to us the power in His name.

I speak Life

2009-09-01T09:41:00.002-04:00

It is evident that death is a norm in livelihood yet we are slow to accept this fate. It will be correct to presume that one is much more effective in life than in death, yet we must not discount this state because for many there is gain. There is a peace that surpasses all understanding for those that have ventured to be with Christ in mind, body, and spirit. This is an enrapture in which the natural mind does not comprehend.

There is also a state where those who live in anguish and beguile, lust for death. It is to you, I speak today. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that Death and Life is embedded in the power of the tongue. Jesus, the manifested Word of God in the flesh, profoundly illustrated the potency of his utterances.

It is with the very Word of God that you should speak like into every dead and dry area in your life. Every parched morsel, every barren womb, and all futile ventures must submit to the spoken word of the ONE who has spoken and it came to past. For it is under God's authority, it lives, moves, and has beginning. God's purpose WILL prevail in your life. I beseech you to SPEAK LIFE!!!

I Speak Life by Donald Lawrence

I speak life you gonna live oh my brother my sister
I speak life you are the head and not the tail you will prevail
I speak life don't give up the fight for your life
You shall live and not die

I speak life you gonna live oh my brother my sister (say it again)
I speak life you are the head and not the tail you will prevail (say it)
I speak life don't give up the fight for your life
You shall live and not die

Bridge

Life to your spirit
Life to your soul
Lord bless your spirit
by his words be made whole
Fight for your life
You shall live and not die

I speak life you gonna live oh my brother my sister (brother my sis)
I speak life you are the head and not the tail you will prevail
I speak life don't give up the fight for your life
You shall live and not die

You shall live and not die (repeat numbers of times)

I speak life you gonna live oh my brother my sister

John 10:10 " A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of."

Independence or Interdependence

2009-08-31T18:28:00.000-04:00

Today, I celebrate with my fellow Trinbagonians as we celebrate 47 years of Independence from Great Britain. This is a great accomplishment as a small nation and no small feat at that. To be trusted with such power and responsibility for over 1.4 million people, is an honor yet I compare this with our lives as Christians.

I really do believe that if Christ had to choose a mode of Government, it will be a variance of Communism, Democracy, and Socialism. His goal will be to achieve total dependence on the Creator and interdependence among creation. We will surrender our very essence to God and have Him use us in the most creative way that brings Him the most glory. As we serve God with our all, we also serve His people. We must understand that loving God requires loving His people. This is a commandment, a commitment, and a choice.

Change Not Loss

2009-08-30T18:37:00.000-04:00

One thing is constant and that is change, but what we fear the most is not change but loss. We grief for what we think is most dear to us and makes us most comfortable. We must however understand that being a disciple of Christ, one must experience loss. Paul admits after exchanging all worldly acclaim as a devout Jew to becoming a measly apostle of Christ that " whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ." We have been chosen for this.... do not let this loss constrict you from the greater calling you have been wired to accomplish.

Know this:

Where there is change, people notice

Matthew 5:13-16

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 1In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Where this is change, your challenge then becomes your opportunity

Acts 1:3-7

3After his death, he presented himself alive to them in many different settings over a period of forty days. In face-to-face meetings, he talked to them about things concerning the kingdom of God. 4As they met and ate meals together, he told them that they were on no account to leave Jerusalem but "must wait for what the Father promised: the promise you heard from me. 5John baptized in water; you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit. And soon."

6When they were together for the last time they asked, "Master, are you going to restore the kingdom to Israel now? Is this the time?"
7He told them, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. 8What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."

Where there is change, your character is built and commitment is redefined

Philippians 3:10-17

10I gave up all that inferior stuff so I could know Christ personally, experience his resurrection power, be a partner in his suffering, and go all the way with him to death itself. 11If there was any way to get in on the resurrection from the dead, I wanted to do it.
Focused on the Goal
12I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. 13Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward--to Jesus. 14I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.

15So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision--you'll see it yet! 16Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it.
17Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal.

My peeps, ponder on this... Change never comes easy, but the rewards are definitely worth it!

In His Will

2009-08-29T22:14:00.002-04:00

Born into His Will!

There is no safer place to be than in the will of God. There may be tumultuous times and the sun may seem like it will never shine on your situation but know that the SUN of righteousness still reigns on high in all HIS glory. This is the story of my life. Please stay tuned with me as we begin with the PREFACE in days to come. Know that our Providential God was there from the beginning and knew my epilogue even though it has not been written. There are many things, I will love for you to know much as we journey together revealing the awe of our OMNISCIENT God.

Precept No#1 God's will transcends barriers, cultures, space, time, countries, water and our limited thinking. Let's ponder this together. Fell free to leave your comments!

Isaiah 55:8-11 (The Message)

8-11"I don't think the way you think.
The way you work isn't the way I work."
God's Decree.
"For as the sky soars high above earth,
so the way I work surpasses the way you work,
and the way I think is beyond the way you think.
Just as rain and snow descend from the skies
and don't go back until they've watered the earth,
Doing their work of making things grow and blossom,
producing seed for farmers and food for the hungry,
So will the words that come out of my mouth
not come back empty-handed.
They'll do the work I sent them to do,
they'll complete the assignment I gave them.

Psalm 139 (The Message)

Psalm 139: 1-22

A David Psalm

1-6 God, investigate my life; get all the facts firsthand.
I'm an open book to you;
even from a distance, you know what I'm thinking.
You know when I leave and when I get back;
I'm never out of your sight.
You know everything I'm going to say
before I start the first sentence.
I look behind me and you're there,
then up ahead and you're there, too—
your reassuring presence, coming and going.
This is too much, too wonderful—
I can't take it all in!

7-12 Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit?
to be out of your sight?
If I climb to the sky, you're there!
If I go underground, you're there!
If I flew on morning's wings
to the far western horizon,
You'd find me in a minute—
you're already there waiting!
Then I said to myself, "Oh, he even sees me in the dark!
At night I'm immersed in the light!"
It's a fact: darkness isn't dark to you;
night and day, darkness and light, they're all the same to you.

13-16 Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out;
you formed me in my mother's womb.
I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking!
Body and soul, I am marvelously made!
I worship in adoration—what a creation!
You know me inside and out,
you know every bone in my body;
You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit,
how I was sculpted from nothing into something.
Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth;
all the stages of my life were spread out before you,
The days of my life all prepared
before I'd even lived one day.

17-22 Your thoughts—how rare, how beautiful!
God, I'll never comprehend them!
I couldn't even begin to count them—
any more than I could count the sand of the sea.