The Life Planner

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XXIII: The Twentieth Year Milestone

2026-05-27T06:27:14.631-07:00

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Tribe,

This is your friend and brother Vic coming to you once again with a new blog. I am extremely content to celebrate this milestone with you all, for it has been officially 20 years since we graduated from high school on May 27, 2006. This date and event will forever be an unforgettable moment in our lifetime! As we do this yearly fellowship on this very moment, let us pause and take a moment in the comfort of our own homes to reflect on how we were gathered together for one last time at that special moment. Go ahead and grab yourself a snack and a drink as we walk down Memory Lane. Without further ado, let’s begin, shall we?

On May 27, 2006, we arose from our sleep, groomed ourselves, we grubbed on some breakfast, and we proceeded to our graduation ceremony. The ceremony took place at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The late Bishop Eddie L. Long was nice and generous to allow us to use his church building for our ceremony; even on the previous day, he was present when we were rehearsing for it. As we were exiting our cars with our caps and gowns on, we approached the church building, and upon our arrival, I had a huge smile on my face, for I was extremely excited! A couple of you guys came to be to talk about my speech in the “Wills and Testaments” section in our 2005-2006 yearbook, for I said the “…haters of jealousy” line! Haha! Upon our entrance into the church building, we first assembled into this room which assembles a jumbo classroom. Inside, we received our stoles to wear: it said “CLASS OF 2006” on the left side, and “CGHS” on the right. Since we were extremely overjoyed, we were granted permission to “get it out of our systems”; so we got our cheer on! On the other side of the room, there was a back exit door which we lined up. Outside, there was a pathway to another side of the church building. Upon our entry into that door to the main lobby, we lined up in two straight rows. My mom was extremely excited for us. She even took a picture with my brother and I in the rows.

We gradually made to the doubled doors for the main sanctuary. As we were walking with each other down the aisle, the piece “Pomp and Circumstance” was playing. We eventually made it to the choir stage, and we all sat down on cue. One of our classmate led us and the entire congregation to say the pledge of allegiance to our nation’s flag. Principal Davis delivered an inspirational and powerful commencement speech. We sung our high school Alma Mater song “Saints Forever”, and an inspirational Gospel song “I Am Here” by Gospel artist Donald Lawrence. We then received our diploma covers as we were called by name individually in alphabetical order. Next, we did a celebration by tossing our caps in the air: this is known as the “cap toss”. We caught our caps back! Lastly, the recessional of the graduation ceremony took effect, for we walked with each out to the lobby and then we exited the church building.

Finally, we gave each other divers greetings for one last time: Pictures were taken with each over, we exchanged autographs with our signatures, warm smiles were received and given, hugs and kisses were given and received, hands were extended for handshakes, and fists were also extended for fist bumps (DAPS). Wow, I can’t believe it has been 20 years since we fellowshipped together for a celebration on that great day. I don’t know about y’all, but that was the proudest moment of my life! Even though we parted ways afterwards, I still kept you guys in my heart, for that’s where y’all belong!

A heartfelt thank you to all of you who took a wee bit of your time to read this annual yearly piece which I had to get off my chest and share with the you brethren. I will always make mention of you all in my prayers. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don’t back down for anyone! Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, Grace, Mercy, Love, Joy, and Many Blessings Be Multiplied Unto You All.

In the Spirit of Agape and Grateful for Our Enduring Bond,

Victor Kendrick II aka Bro. Vick

P.S. You’re probably wondering what I have going on; I’m still focusing on school to pass this last course to finally set foot into college. When I do, I’m going to do big things. I’ve always mentioned in detail about what I’m planning to do in my previous letter. I’m still working on my project, for I have a few more steps to do. I’ll keep y’all posted and updated. Anyway, I hope and pray that we will continue this friendship and fellowship, whether in person or in spirit. May God continue to bless you, keep you, give you peace as well as understanding, and guide you along your way. I’m the name of our risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Numbers 6:24-26 - “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”

1 Peter 3:8-9 - “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, bepitiful, becourteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.”

1 John 4:11-13 - “Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.”

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XXII: Nineteen Years Strong

2025-05-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your friend and brother Vic coming to you with another letter in celebration of 19th Anniversary of our high school graduation which took place on May 27, 2006 at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The late Bishop Eddie L. Long was nice and generous to allow us to use his church building for our graduation ceremony. It may have been nineteen years ago, but I will commemorate this special event forever. I would like for us to join heart to heart in spirit to commemorate and to celebrate this special day in the comfort in our own homes and/or wherever we may be. Go ahead and grab a snack and something to drink as we begin this yearly class fellowship. Without further ado, let us kick off and begin this commemoration as we walk down Memory Lane, shall we?

On May 27, 2006, we rose from our sleep, we did our morning rituals, we dressed ourselves in church context in conjunction with our caps and gowns, and we traveled all the way to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. As we approach the church building, we first went inside this room which resembles a large classroom. Inside, we assembled together to receive our stoles to place on our necks to hang on our chests. Due to the fact that we were extremely excited and overjoyed, we were told to “get it out of our systems;” so we made joyful noises! Shortly, we were lined up at the back door in the back of the room which leads to the interior outdoor center of the church building. We followed the pathway which leads to another door to enter into the building. We lined up again in the lengthily front lobby as we gradually move toward the doubled doors of the sanctuary. My mom (may God rest her beautiful soul) was very happy for us, so she took a few pictures with us with my brother and myself. We eventually made it to the sanctuary, and walked with each other through the aisle to the choir stand as the piece “Pomp and Circumstance” was playing, and we took our seats at once on cue. Our classmate led us in the Pledge of Allegiance to our nation’s flag. Our high school principal delivered a powerful commencement speech. Were sung our high school Alma Mater anthem “Saints Forever”, and an uplifting & inspiring song “I Am Here” originally performed by Gospel artist Donald Lawrence. We received our diploma covers as we were called in alphabetical order by name as we took solo pictures with our principal shaking hands. Later, we briefly did a normal celebration known as the “cap toss”. I caught my cap back thankfully. Lastly, the conclusion of our ceremony took effect; we went into recess by walking with each other to the lobby and excited the church building.

Finally, we greeted each other for one last time: We took pictures with each other, autographs were exchanged, hugs and kisses were given, warm smiles were received and given, hands were extended for handshakes, fists were also entered for fist bumps (daps). I don’t know about you guys, but it was the proudest moment of my life! I will continue to keep May 27, 2006 burned and tattooed in my heart: that means I will observe the moment forever. After it was all said and done, we parted ways. Even though we posted ways, we were still bonded together in the spirit of friendship and fellowship in our hearts.

Brothers and sisters, I would again like to thank you once again for listening to what I had to get off my chest in this annual article. Once again, you guys are in my thoughts and prayers, no matter what. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don’t back down for anyone! Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, Grace, Mercy, Love, Joy, and Many Blessings Be Multiplied Unto You All.

With Brotherly Agape Love and Gratitude,

Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. Just in case if you guys wondering, I am doing everything I can to make it to the next spot. I am still focusing on school trying to ace these last two courses so I can set foot into college, and my anticipated project (my memoir) is still in the works! Another thing, I still have my certificate award from Eta Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. I still treasure that award and when I go to college, I will bring that to fruition. I’m also still doing other work. Anyway, let’s continue to keep each other in our thoughts and prayers, and let God’s Holy Spirit guide the days or our lives, and let’s also continue to love one another.

John 13:34 - “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”

1 John 3:18 - “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.”

1 John 4:11 - “Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.”

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XXI: Eighteen Years of Nostalgia

2024-05-27T08:20:00.000-07:00

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your friend and brother Victor once again coming to you with an annual yearly reminder of our high school graduation which took place eighteen years ago at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The late Bishop Eddie L. Long was a nice guy, he even granted us permission to use his church building for our graduation ceremony. I don’t know about you guys, but this day is special to me. For the times we have spent together in high school and even until we walked together for the final time back then, the end of our journeys did not stop there, and I guarantee you, it’s not stopping today; it is not over until God makes a calling. Of course, I will get to that in a little bit. Until then, please have a moment of a silent reflection and fellowship with me as we come together in the comfort of our own homes and hearts to reminisce on what was said and done…

On May 27, 2006, we were gathered together for one last time. I was excited and happy! My brother and I arrived to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church with our family, for we were graduating together in the same class at the same time! We got out of the car to approach the church, and some of you guys approached me because of the term “haters of jealousy”which I’ve mentioned in the “Wills and Testaments” in our 2005-2006 high school yearbook.
Upon our entrance, we went into this giant room which resembles a huge classroom and a small congregation. We received our stoles to put around the back of our necks. And due to the fact that we were exceedingly excited, we were told to “get it out of our systems, so we made joyful noises. We then lined up at the backdoor of the room outdoors, which was a pathway to another door which leads back indoors and into the hallway where we all lined up therein. We lined up in two straight lines. My mom (may God rest her beautiful soul) was also excited for us, so she took a picture with me and my brother. We eventually moved up gradually to the doubled doors which leads to the main sanctuary.
Once the common graduation piece “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” started to play, we began to march with each other in two straight lines down the middle congregation aisle straight to the choir stand. We sat down on cue! One of our classmates led the Pledge of Allegiance to our nation’s flag, our principal delivered his uplifting speech, we sung our high school Alma Mater “Saints Forever” which was directed under the leadership pf our high school music director, we also sung an uplifting and inspirational Gospel song “I Am Here” performed and arranged by Gospel artist Donald Lawrence. We received our diploma covers and took solo pictures with our principal accompanied with a handshake. Minutes later, we did a little celebration by tossing our caps in the air (I caught mine back)! When the ceremony was over, we did a recessional by walking together up the congregation aisle upon our exit of the church.

Afterwards, we greeted each other for one last time. Pictures were taken with each other, autographs were exchanged, hugs, kisses, and warm smiles were given, hands were extended for handshakes, and fist bumps (daps) we done. It was the proudest day of my life! May 27, 2006 will always be the date which I will remember for the rest of my life. After it was all said and done, we parted ways. Even though we parted ways, the fellowship still went strong in my spirit!
Brothers and sisters, I would like to thank you once again for listening to what I had to get off my chest in this annual article. Once again, you guys are in my thoughts and prayers, no matter what. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don’t back down for anyone! Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, Grace, Mercy, Love, Joy, and Many Blessings Be Multiplied Unto You All.

Best Regards With Gratefulness
Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. Please continue to keep me in your thoughts and prayers. This year of 2024 has been like a rollercoaster to me. Back in March of this year, I lost my father and my second cousin. You read it right, they died. I have no more parents, but I still have faith in God. I’m taking it well because I know that God will bring me through anything. Also, I am still focusing on school so I can set foot into college. A few days before our graduation, I received an award from Eta Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity congratulating me with an encouragement for me to continue with my education. I am working on that. When I go to college soon, I am going to make an effort to try and become a brother in the fraternity. I am also making efforts to become a Park Ranger. Once again like last year, let us continue to let peace and love rule in our hearts. Also, let’s keep it up with Brotherly Love.

2 CORINTHIANS 13:11 – “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.”

1 John 4:16 – “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwellwth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.”

2 John 1:3 – “Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.”

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XX: Our Memorable Milestone

2023-05-27T04:23:00.003-07:00

-A Letter To My Longtime Friends XX: Our Memorable Milestone

-A Letter To My Longtime Friends XX: Our Memorable Milestone-

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

Greetings and Salutations, this is your friend and brother Victor coming to you again with an annual and friendly letter in regards to our high school graduation which took place on May 27, 2006 at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church seventeen years ago. The late Bishop Eddie L. Long was a philanthropic and nice guy because he granted us permission to use his church building for our graduation ceremony. On the day before, we were there for a rehearsal. We were first in a room which resembles a large classroom. We then proceed to the sanctuary to practice our walk, which we marched to the choir stand. The rehearsal didn’t take long, so we all left when it was over. We were gathered together for to walk with each other, so here is how it all went down…

On that Saturday morning on May 27, 2006, my brother and I woke up from our sleep, got dressed, grabbed our caps and gowns and put them on, and off we went! We arrived to the church while I was in a happy mood. We approached the church building, we went inside of this big room (as I mentioned earlier) where we received our stoles to hang on our necks: the left side of the stole said “CGHS”, and the right side thereof said “I’m going to let you get it out of your systems”; and sure enough, we made joyful noises with a good cheer! One moment later, we lined up at the backdoor where there is a pathway outside which leads to another door in the same church building. We went inside and we lined up in two straight lines in this hallway. My mom (may Jesus Christ rest her beautiful soul) was taking pictures. She was so happy for us, so she posed one with my brother and I. We eventually made it to the door of the sanctuary. When the marching musical piece “Pomp and Circumstance” begin to play, we begin to walk with each other down the aisle in a straight row all the way to the choir stand; when the piece finished playing, we all sat down on cue. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, our principal made his speech, the valedictorian made the speech, we sung our Alma Mater anthem, and we sung an inspirational song “I Am Here” arranged and written by Gospel artist Donald Lawrence. Our principal called us up to receive our diploma covers individually in alphabetical order of surnames and to take a picture with him with a handshake. One moment later, we tossed our graduation caps in the air as a celebration: face it, we’ve been through so much when we were in school, so there was no reason for us to hold back. Anyway, when it was over and the recessional was taking place, we walked with each other up the aisle to evacuate the church heading outdoors.

Outside, we greeted each other for one last time. The happiness went non-stop. Autographs were exchanged, hands were extended for handshakes, pictures were taken, hugs were given to each other, fist bumps (daps) were given to each to each other, and warm smiles were given. I tell you the truth, that day was the proudest day of my life which I’ve burned it in my heart for a time to remember. When we parted ways, I felt the sensation of peace upon me.

Brothers and sisters, I want to thank each and every one of you for your time to listen to what I had say in this annual letter. I do this for a specific reason. I always keep you all in my thoughts and prayers, no matter what. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don’t back down for anyone! Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, Grace, Mercy, and Many Blessings Be Multiplied Unto You All.

Kindest Regards With Gratitude,
Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. Let us all continue to fellowship with each other, no matter where we may be. Also, please remember our late longtime friend, brother, and fellow saint Tim (Tildon) White, for he recently passed away not too long ago, so let us keep his family and friends in our prayers in the time of need and bereavement. One more thing, continue to let peace and love rule in our hearts.

1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-18 – “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XVIII: Our Annual Red-Letter Day

2022-05-27T07:10:00.000-07:00

-A Letter To My Longtime Friends XVIII: Our Annual Red-Letter Day-

Dear 2006 Class Brethren,

This is your friend and brother Vic. I am once again writing to you all because I want us all to do a heart-to-heart annual fellowship in remembrance of our high school graduation ceremony which happened 16 years ago. Having said that, we take some time out and reflect on what we did and what happened back then while joining each other in heart, mind, and spirit in the comfort of our own homes or anywhere we may be. So I’m not going to tarry you long, for all I need is just a few minutes of your busy time to take you for a ride through the Golden Age of our Special Past. Fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the sensation of nostalgia…

On May 27, 2006, we rose from our beds to prepare ourselves for the ceremony; we dressed like we were going to a formal church service, which it actually was, for it took place at a church: We arrived at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The late Bishop Eddie L. Long was nice, kind, and generous to grant us permission to use his church building for our graduation ceremony, for we even practiced and rehearsed the day before. Anyway, we arrived at the church with our caps and gowns on, we entered into the church, and then we went into this place which resembles a large classroom and a small congregation. We were so happy and overjoyed because we were gathered together to walk with each other, and due to the fact that we were so happy and overjoyed, we made joyful and cheerful noises: for one of our conductors said, “I’m going to let to get it out of your systems.” One moment later, we received our stoles to put around our necks which says “CGHS” on the left end, and “CLASS OF 2006” on the right. Later, we lined up at the other door to the right which leads to the outdoor path to the door on another side of the church building where we lined up at. When we entered the doorway, we lined up in the hallway to be in preparation of walking with each other. Surprisingly, my mom took a few pictures of us, and one with us: she was extremely happy while carrying a smile on her face. When the piece “Pomp and Circumstance” was playing, we marched together into the sanctuary to the choir stand, and took a seat on cue as directed. One of our classmates did the Pledge to the United States Flag as we were led. Our high school principal was present with a special robe for our graduation; Valedictions of farewell were made; we sung our Alma Mater song “Saints Forever”; we sung our graduation selection “I Am Here” an inspirational Gospel song arranged by Donald Lawrence; and we lined up in alphabetical order of surnames to receive our diploma cases. We even tossed our caps in the air as a time for a celebration. When the graduation ceremony was over, we walked together evacuating the sanctuary and the building. And outside, we greeted each other for one last time: pictures were taken, right hands were extended for handshakes, fists were extended for fist bumps (daps), hugs were given, and autographs were exchanged. I tell you, there was a heap of love that day, and that was the happiest and proudest day of my life! Our hearts were filled with laughter and joy! After all of this, we parted ways and went in peace, but the road of life didn’t end there…

Brothers and Sisters, I want to thank each and every one of you for taking your time to read this letter. You guys have a very special place in my heart forever. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don’t back down for anyone! I wish you all Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, and Many Blessings Be Multiplied Unto You All.

Yours in Christ Jesus, Our Chief Friend,

Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. Don’t forget about our late longtime friends who passed on, for they are also forever in our hearts. One day if the Lord will, we will reunite one day. May the Lord Jesus Christ continue to keep us all in Perfect Peace! As always, I will continue to keep us all lifted in my prayers as a sacrifice to God our Father through our Lord Jesus Christ, and in communion of the Holy Ghost. Peace and More Love to you Forevermore!!!

Romans 12:10-13 - Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XVII: Graduation Milestone

2021-05-27T09:10:00.003-07:00

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XVII: Graduation Milestone

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your friend and brother Victor coming to you with an annual and yearly letter. The reason why I am writing to you all is because I am celebrating our fifteenth anniversary of our high school graduation which happened on May 27, 2006. I would like for each and everyone of us to get together to celebrate this special milestone: I am not asking you to waste your gas, money, and energy to go to some place, but rather, let us celebrate it on one accord and commune together with each other in the comfort of our own homes. Having said this and without further ado, let’s go for a ride for a goodly dose of nostalgia. Shall we?

On May 27, 2006, we were gathered together for one last time. Our high school graduation took place at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The late Bishop Eddie Lee Long was a generous guy, for he graciously opened his church and granted us permission to use for our graduation ceremony.

That very morning on that same day, we got out of our vehicles in our caps and gowns, and walked straight to the church building, I was so overjoyed! First, we went into this room which resembles a huge classroom. Due to the fact that we were overjoyed, Mrs. Adams-Gibson said, “I’mma let up get it out of your systems,” so we made joyful noises. Also there, we received our stoles to wear which CGHS printed on the left, and CLASS OF 2006 printed on the right on the stole.

After a brief moment in the room, we lined up to the door on the other side of the room which leads outdoors, and we walked on the cement pathway to another door which leads to another side of the same building. We lined up once again. We were beyond happy. My mom was happy too. She was taking pictures of us: she ended up taking one picture with my brother and I, for we were graduating together. We eventually moved up to the door slowly and gradually....

Once we made it to the side by side doors which leads to the sanctuary. As we were walking in two straight lines, the classic graduation piece “Pomp and Circumstance” was playing. We made it to the choir stand, and were seated on cue, just liked we rehearsed the day before. The pledge of allegiance to the American flag was recited, and our principal gave a speech. Next, we sing our Alma Mater “Saints Forever” as conducted by our music teacher, and we sing a Gospel selection “I Am Here” arranged by Gospel singer Donald Lawrence. Next, each of us were called in alphabetical order by name to receive a diploma case and to take a picture with our principal with a handshake. After that, we had a moment. We tossed our caps in the air for a moment, for we were truly being happy, as I said before.

Lastly, we lined up in two straight lines and walked with each other and evacuated the church building, and outside, we did our final greetings with each other; hands were extended handshakes were done, fist bumps (daps) were given, hugs were given, laughter was done, pictures were taken, and warm smiles were given. After our exodus, peace started rule over me. I tell you, it was truly a blessing for me. God has been with us throughout our school days. I don’t know about you guys, but it was the proudest day of my life! As long as we live, I will continue to keep this special occasion marked forever, for you guys have a very special place in my heart. Every chance I get, I mention you all in my thoughts and prayers as a sacrifice to our Eternal God in Heaven.

I truly want to thank you all for taking time to read this letter. I love you guys unconditionally. As usual, don't back down for anyone. Stay on top of your game everyday. I wish you Peace, Serenity, Tranquility, and Many Blessings. Stay Safe! Take care of yourselves.

In the Spirit of Peace and Love,

Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. Let us not forget about our late longtime and friend and brother Joseph Morris, who has an outrageous sense of humor. Back in October of last year, God has called him home. Please remember his family in your thoughts and prayers. Most of all, let’s continue to pray for each other.

Colossians 3:12-14

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.”

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XVI: Class Fellowship While In Quarantine

2020-05-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XVI: Class Fellowship While In Quarantine

Dear Longtime Friends and Brethren,

This is your friend and brother before coming to you with another annual yearly article. As you know it just in case you didn't realize, this day marks 14 years of our high school graduation. I am privileged and much honored to bring this past event to your remembrance. Even though we are in quarantine, it doesn't stop us from reminiscing and reflecting. Having said this, let's gather together in spirit as we unite for fellowship in the comfort of our own homes or wherever we may be, so grab a drink and a snack, and come right back! Hahaha… Without further ado, let's enjoy this moment of nostalgia, shall we?

On May 27, 2006, we gathered together for one last time. From preschool all the way to high school; of course, each of us has a different story. We pulled up to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church where our graduation ceremony took place. The late senior pastor Bishop Eddie L. Long was nice and generous to allow us to use his church and sanctuary. He was a great fellow. We walked inside this room which resembles a huge study hall classroom to be seated. Inside, we received our stoles to put around our necks, which has the name of our school "CGHS" and "CLASS OF 2006" printed thereon. And due to the fact that we were overjoyed, one of our teachers said, "I'm gonna let you get it out of your system," so we made joyful noises as loud as we could. We then lined up to this other door: we walked outside on the cement pathway which leads to another side of the church building. We lined up in the church hallway in two straight lines. My mom was taking pictures with her camera; since she was excited, she took a picture of my brother and I (we were both graduating together.) We slowly moved up to the door which leads to the sanctuary where we began the ceremonial walk…

As the processional part of the graduation ceremony began, we walked with each other in two straight lines side-by-side to the choir stand as the orchestral piece "Pomp and Circumstance" was playing. One cue, we all sat down at once! The pledge of allegiance to our country's flag was led by one of our beloved classmates, and our principal made a good speech. I took a look at the audience, and everyone was cheering for us! As our music stepped, he directed us to sing "Saints Forever," which is our Alma Mater; we were also directed to sing "I Am Here," which is an inspirational Gospel song by Donald Lawrence: the crowd really enjoyed that! We then moved on to the receiving of our diploma cases right along with individual picture taking in alphabetical order featuring our principal's handshake. One moment later, we did a little celebration by tossing our caps in the air and catching them! We were having a blast!

Eventually, we did a recessional: we walked together in two straight lines and in pairs as we exited the church. And outside, we greeted each other once more; have were extended for handshakes, fist bumps were done, hugs were given, combos of handshakes and hugs were done, "daps" with hugs were done, warm and big smiles were given, autographs were exchanged, pictures were taken, laughter was made, and whole lots more. Our hearts were filled with love, joy, and happiness. After spending years in the public school system, it finally came to a close. Having said all, we united for a special occasion one one accord: we fellowshipped together, we sung together, we celebrated together, we walked together, we drew pictures in the still frames of our hearts together, we bade farewell to each other, and we parted ways. As what I said last year, it was the proudest day of my life!

In the Spirit of Love & All Humility,

Victor Kendrick II [Brother Vick]

P.S. Even though the Coronavirus is raging on and we should be safe, trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as He directs our paths. You guys still have a special place in my heart, and I will continue to pray for you all. Much Agape Love!

Philippians 1:3-11 (KJV) I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,

Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,

For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

The Marks of a False Prophet

2019-10-22T18:29:00.001-07:00

-The Marks of a False Prophet-

Matthew 7:15-20 - Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

On July 1, 2018, we were invited to a men’s service at another church, so my pastor took his four deacons (including myself) along with him right after our church service. Of course, I have visited this church in the previous year in 2017 when we were invited there for a men’s service, but at that time, it was my pastor, his wife, and myself, and the service was great. But this time, it was a little out of the ordinary: I will get to that in a little bit. When we walked in, we were offered a small bottle of water so we could quench our thirst. We walked in the sanctuary to be seated. The pastor of the small local church at a strip mall is a nice and generous guy. Before the service began, my pastor gave me a gold dollar coin to put in the collections plate. Before that, we were having a little bit of fun. I was testing him of his surname origin. He has a good sense of humor.

When the service began, the pastor of the church gave a brief opening, one of our deacons played the keyboard for the music, and my pastor was called to the front to speak a little bit. After all of this, then the pastor had gave an introduction to the guest minister. When the guest minister went to the pulpit, he started to introduce himself: he talked about his sinful past and so on, and then he started preaching. He was preaching from the Bible and gave a good word, but when time passed by, things started to get weird and strange; he started calling certain people one-by-one to the front: he was using olive oil to anoint certain people and then having them to do strange things. Normally, I’ve seen ministers put one of their fingers on the tip of the bottle of the olive oil for the anointing to come, but this minister actually POURED olive oil in his hand, which is kind of odd. He rubbed his hands together, and then laid his hands on them. One of our deacons was called to the front, the minister poured olive oil in his hand, placed his hands together, and then laid them on the person. He had him to walk to him back and forth, to and fro, and when he was praying over him, he was “slain in the Spirit,” (a Charismatic Pentecostal heresy I do not subscribe to). It seemed like he was “knocked out” for several minutes.

There are several parts of his activities I remember, but some, I don’t. On one person, he made a prophecy that so-and-so would receive a blessing in “seven days,” but of course, that never happened. He started to go all over the congregation for individuals to pray over. He eventually came to me. To be honest, I was hoping that he wouldn’t do anything strange to me, but thankfully, he didn’t. Instead, he was talking to be about the belly. He placed his hand upon my belly, and he mentioned the scripture John 7:38 which says, “He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” Of course I already know that. Eventually, he moved on…

As I said before, things started to get weird and strange. There was a woman who was sitting three to four chairs away from me, she was screaming like she was in agony; she started to be “slain in the Spirit,” on the other side of the congregation on the left; there was another woman which was going through the same thing, except for the scream, but she was falling over chairs like she was having a seizure; and lastly, there was a woman who fell down to the floor, but guess what, mucus was coming out of her nose, and she was experiencing it too! I tell you there was a lot of “speaking in tongues” in there too! The service went on for hours like it was never going to end. For the whole time, I held my peace and kept my silence, but in my mind, I said “Wow!” I’ve seen people speak in tongues, and getting slain in the Spirit and falling down, but to tell you the truth, I have never seen anything like this! I was already discerning in my mind, “Is this really from God?”

The title of this article is actually the title of the sermon my pastor preached on July 15, 2019. He was exposing the evil tactics of the guest minister we seen. I was afraid to even question his tactics, because I would be accused of “blasphemy against the Holy Ghost.” Thankfully, my pastor exposed him. I forgot his name, but God knows. There are plethora false teachers and false prophets who claim to speak in Jesus’ name, especially this one pulled a fake prophecy. If you do that, there is something wrong. When you read Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus gives a stern warning to people who will claim to do all sorts of things in His name, but they were actually doing them for their own glory:

Matthew 7:21-23 - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

In conclusion, we as Bible-believing Holy Ghost-filled Christians need to keep our spiritual eyes open with discernment. There are people who preach only for admiration of men. For example, one person can say about him or her, “Ooh, so-and-so can preach, and he preached so well!” Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with receiving admiration, for there are some well-known preachers who I personally admire. But God must receive all the glory. God is a Jealous God, and He won’t share the glory with men. Again, all the glory belongs to Him along.

1 John 4:1 - Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Luke 6:46 – “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! For so did their fathers to the false prophets.”

And due to the fact that we continuously need spiritual discernment, we should be able to tell whether or not who is being true or false. Check this out, Satan does wonders and miracles too. That’s why we should be careful. The Devil has some people on his team too. Many people are being deceived by him today, so that’s why false prophets and false teachers ought to be exposed, marked, and avoided (Romans 16:17-18). George W. Bush claims to be a Christian, but when you read his beliefs, he is a Universalist in his dogma. He believes that Christians and Muslims worship the “same God.” He believes that there are “different routes of getting to the Almighty.” When he was asked whether or not the Bible is the Word of God, he said, “You know. Probably not. … No, I’m not a literalist, but I think you can learn a lot from it, but I do think that the New Testament for example is … has got … You know, the important lesson is ‘God sent a son.’”

2 Corinthians 11:13-15 – “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”

Thank you for listening to me. Let’s continue to expose false prophets and false teachers, and continue the effort of soul-winning (winning souls to Christ!)

-Brother Vick

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XV: Thirteen Years Of Nostalgia

2019-05-27T08:09:00.001-07:00

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your friend and brother Vic coming to you with another article and with an annual remembrance of our special moment what happened 13 years ago. On May 27, 2006, we were gathered together as one. We walked together in two straight lines. It was a glorious moment for me. So at this time, take some time out, and reflect on this nostalgic time. Let me go ahead and “roll the clip…”

On May 26, 2006, each of us traveled to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church to practice our graduation ritual. The atmosphere of the church inside was very appealing. Bishop Eddie L. Long (now deceased) was generous and kind to allow us to use his church building for our graduation ceremony. He was a very nice guy. During the practice, we were given index cards with names and number written on them individually; we were to “sit on them,” in that way, it would help us to memorize the seat we were assigned to numerically and alphabetically: So it was needful for them to sequence us. By the time when rehearsal was over, we went our way.

When May the 27^th finally came, my brother and I rose from sleep (both of us were graduating together), I took a quick shower (so did he), we got dressed, we grabbed our caps and gowns, we got in the car, and off we went! We finally made our way to the church; we got out of the car, and we paced to the church, and as we made paces, we spotted some of you. The 2006’s “Wills & Testaments” were brought up, especially the one which I wrote. The line I wrote therein was “Thanks to my friends, my family, and my fellow upperclassmen of 2006. Even my enemies and the haters of jealousy. I still love y’all, no matter what.” I will explain the reason behind it later in this article…

As we entered into the building, we first went inside this room which resembles a large classroom and a small congregational church. Inside this room, we received our stoles to put on. Since we were exceedingly overjoyed, we were told that we could “get it out of our systems,” so we made joyful noises with cheerful spirits blended in. We then lined up to this door on the other side of the room which leads to the outside thereof, and a cement pathway which leads to another entrance back into the church building, but through another way. We lined up in two straight lines in alphabetical order. My mom was so happy for us, that she wanted to take a picture of me and my brother. She was sort of already taking pictures of the movement as we move slowly to the sanctuary until the ceremony began…

Once the graduation ceremony began as a processional, we walked together in two rows for the last time. The music selection “Pomp and Circumstance” was playing as we walked to the choir stand; once we all got there, we were given the signal to be seated at the same time on cue, so we did. We said the pledge to the flag, valedictorian speeches were made, and our high school principal spoke to the people. We sung our Alma Mater “Saints Forever,” and we sung a Gospel selection “I Am Here” written by Donald Lawrence. After the music, our names were called so we could receive our diploma cases, and a handshake from our principal. Later, we celebrated with happiness by tossing our caps in the air! Thankfully, I caught mine back. And when it was over, we did a recessional: we walked together to the lobby, and out of the building.

Outside of the church afterwards, we were exceedingly glad that we made it real smooth. Our hearts were filled with joy. At this time, we were congratulated by family and friends, even from each other. Pictures were taken, hands were extended for handshakes, hugs were given, and more autographs were exchanged. We were gathered together until we parted ways. Overall, I thought it was awesome. As a matter of fact, it was the proudest day of my life!

I want to thank you all for taking the time to read this letter I wrote. As usual, don’t back down for anyone. Stay on top of your game everyday. I wish you Peace, Joy, Tranquility, Serenity, and Many Blessings from God our Father through our Lord Jesus Christ, and in communion of the Holy Ghost. In Jesus’ name,

Much Agape Love & Cordially Yours,
Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. As I mentioned earlier about my last Will and Testament in our 2005-2006 high school yearbook, I said a little note to my enemies and my “haters of jealousy.” But when I said that, I meant it out of Love. Having said that, I love people, regardless of what condition. It also means for me to ignore the naysayers. I first did a rough draft of my Will & Testament in the Summer of 2005: I revised it a few times, and then, there you have it! One more thing, I Love You, and there is nothing you can do about it!

Real Hopes of My Future [part four]: School Updates and Testing Battles

2019-05-07T13:47:00.001-07:00

Greetings brothers and sisters, this is Vic coming to you with another article with an update on how I’m doing. It has been a while since I’ve updated you all: yea, it has been since July of 2017. Before that time and long before the, it was all talk and no action. I was pretty much waiting for things to come my way, but I wasn’t accomplishing a thing. Anyway, allow me to take you halfway on the journey with me…

On April 23, 2019, I traveled to Georgia Piedmont Technical College to take the GED Social Studies Test. As I made my way to the designated area, I began to pray that I would score well on the test. So I went inside, took the elevator to the ground floor, and walked down the hallway to the Assessment Office. I clocked in, showed my identification card, took a face picture for profile, and I emptied my pockets and placed my belongings in a locker because things inside your pockets can make noises. When it was time for me to take the test, I went inside the room with computers, and began my test. I answered every question. When I had finished, I clocked out with my ID. I told the lady who was in charge that I was a little nervous about my results, she told me to “Think Positive.” I caught the bus to my grandparents’ house for a moment. An hour and a half later, I went back on the bus to go to school. As I was seated during the ride, I received an e-mail alert from myGED.com about my score. I began to pray, “Lord, please let this be a passing grade.” It took me to the site, and when I opened it with determination, it said that I scored a 148! One must score a 145 or higher. I released my breath and said, Thank You, Jesus!”

Two days later on Thursday, April 25, 2019, I went through the same process. This time, it was Language Arts. I answered every question. I even completed the essay. I took a 10-minute break, and then I resumed testing. Again, when I had finished my test before time was up, I clocked out. I followed the procedures. I walked out of the building to wait for the bus to take me to the train station, and then catch the bus to the church where I go to class at. As I was waiting for the bus, I received an e-mail alert from myGED.com. I prayed that it’d be a higher score as I was opening it. And guess what, I scored a 146! Once again, I praised Jesus Christ for it! Because back in March, I took the Language Arts test, and I scored a 143. I was so close! Thankfully, one of my GED representatives decided to reschedule it for me. He even paid for it for me. God works in mysterious ways!

I knocked out two exams. That means “two down, two more to go.” I just started Science class, and I’m still in the middle of Mathematical Reasoning. You already know the story of me having graduated from high school on May 27, 2006, and received a Special Ed. Diploma: Colleges usually don’t accept those unless one obtains a GED. I am currently working on it. It’s not going to be easy, but I have faith, and by faith, I will conquer these obstacle courses! The Lord is with me. If I fail, I will do it again until I make it. THAT is how a winner with perseverance does.

Think of it as baseball: back in 2017, I was “up to bat” by getting up and going to the place to get set up, and am currently getting it done. Obtaining a GED is “First Base,” so I am currently at First Base. When I’m done, I’ll run to “Second Base” by attending a 2-year community college for an Associates’ degree, move to “Third Base by attending a 4-year university of my choice for a Bachelor’s Degree, and Run Home!

Thank you all for listening to me. Please continue to keep me in your prayers as I accomplish these goals. God bless you all!

Bro. Vick

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XIV: The Tie That Binds

2018-05-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your friend and brother Victor. How are you guys? As you know, this day marks the twelfth year of our high school graduation from Cedar Grove High School. You've heard it right, it has been twelve years straight! For some reason, I have decided to make this day day a annual special commemoration. So I would like for us to stop whatever we're doing, and reflect on the very day. Let me take you back. Just close your eyes and visualize the good times we had together on May 27, 2006 as I paint the picture of the scene for you. Buckle your seatbelts, because I'm about to give you a ride on Memory Lane. So let's cherish the moments...

On that very day, we arrived at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church where our graduation ceremony was held and took place. Once we walked in the church building, we approached this room which resembles a large classroom and a small congregational church. Since we were so excited, we were told that we could "get it out of our systems." so we did.made our joyful noises. We received our graduation stoles to put around our necks. We then lined up in front of the door on the other side of the room to proceed to another entrance where we lined up in two straight lines. My mom was so happy, do she decided to take a picture with us.

After we waited for a few minutes, we then proceed to walk with each other in two straight lines into the sanctuary while the tune "Pomp and Circumstance" was playing. We took our place in the core stand which we were given the signal to sit down on cue. And the ceremony began. The pledge was said, we sung our Alma Mater, we even sang a Gospel selection "I Am Here" by Donald Lawrence. My grandmother told me that she enjoyed that moment. Our principal spoke on our behalf to the audience, we received our diploma folders, and lastly, we tossed our caps in the air. Yes, we were really having a happy moment. When it was over, we walked with each other to exit the sanctuary as a recessional.

Once we exited the church building, we were being congratulated by our families, friends, and even strangers. Hands were extended for handshakes, kisses and hugs were exchanged, pictures were taken, and more autographs were signed. I was extremely overjoyed and happy that we graduated, so I have deemed the day as the "proudest day of my life." There were even tears of joy and happiness. God has blessed us tremendously and beyond measure.

Even though we parted ways back then, you guys still have a special place in my heart. I love you guys unconditionally. Add mentioned earlier, it use the twelfth anniversary. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don't back down for anyone, not even for our adversary the devil. Let's continue to pray for one another. As the hymn writer John Fawcett wrote the famous hymn "Blest Be the Tie That Binds", we will be Friends Forever!

Yours in Christ,

Victor Kendrick II (Bro. Vick)

P.S. I know you are probably wondering what I'm doing almost everyday now. Well, I go to class every twice a week trying to earn this General Educational Development diploma so I can set foot into college. If you've been praying for me, I truly appreciate it. Please continue to pray for me. And I'm still writing my memoir. If the Lord will, I would like for to get together so you can receive an autographed copy of my book. Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, & Many Blessings. God Bless You All!

COLOSSIANS 3:12-13 - "Put on therefore, add the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so do also ye."

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XIII: Eleven Years Strong

2017-05-27T00:15:00.001-07:00

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your brother and friend Victor. How are you guys? I just want to take this time and write this letter to commemorate our eleventh year anniversary of our high school graduation. It was a glorious moment! It has been 11 years since we graduated from high school. I decided to put a day aside to remember this day and to reminisce and cherish the precious moments and good times we had together. So I am here to remind you all, just in case you forgot. Allow me to take you for a ride on Memory Lane, shall we? Hehehe...

On the day before, we went to a big church called "New Birth Missionary Baptist Church" in Lithonia, Georgia where the late Bishop Eddie L. Long was the senior pastor. He was a nice guy, so he was generous to grant us permission to use his church building to practice our graduation ritual, and our graduation ceremony. The next day in the morning, my brother and I woke up, we showered up, got dressed, grabbed our caps & gowns, and we got in the car, and drove away, and off to our graduation ceremony. But we had to be on time, or else we couldn't walk. I also had to spray on my favorite cologne as what my bus driver gave me as a graduation gift. As my family and I walked to the building, I was so happy that we were gathered together for the last time. We first went into this large room which resembles a large classroom and a small congregation. We were told to "get it out of our systems" since we were excited, so we did! Nothing was holding us back from walking with each other. As we proceed in to the hallway to walk with each other, my mother (who is now deceased) was happy, so she took a picture with us. We then walked together in two straight lines in a row through the middle congregational aisle to the choir stand. We sung two selections, our CGHS Alma Mater "Saints Forever", and an uplifting Gospel song "I Am Healed" by Donald Lawrence. Our names were called in alphabetical order for us to receive our diploma cases. Almost at the end, we tossed our caps in the air, which I consider is a sign on gladness! We then walked with each other out of the church when it was over. And outside, we signed more autographs. Also, pictures were taken, hugs and kisses were given, hands were extended for handshakes, love was shown to each other, gifts were given, and whole lots more. And after all this, we parted ways. Our hearts were filled with joy. Having said that, we were overjoyed! After all this, we went home, and then I took off my church clothes, and changed into my normal everyday clothes. I then went around the corner to my grandparents' house because they were throwing a graduation party for me and my brother, for we graduated from high school together. I tell you, THAT day was the proudest day of my life! The Lord has been with us. He never left us, nor forsook us!

Detuteronomy 31:8 - "And the LORD, he that is that doth go with thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."

Thank you all for taking your precious time out to read this annual epistle. I just love to do this, since I started writing series of these essays and articles. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don't back down for anyone, not even Satan. I wish you Peace, tranquility, and Many Blessings from God the Father through Jesus Christ, and may the Holy Ghost continue to guide you.

Kindest & Humble Regards,

Victor Kendrick II (Brother Vick)

P.S. Though it has been a long time ever since we parted ways, I still think about you guys everyday. I even pray for you all. You guys have a special place in my heart. I love you guys unconditionally. I am still writing my memoir page by page, and hopefully, it'll get published real soon. I'll keep you posted if I can. One day if the Lord willing, we will unite once more. I know I missed the high school reunion last year, but I was with you guys in spirit. Thank you all, and may Jesus bless you all! Much love!

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XII: The Random Check-In Update

2016-11-02T22:03:00.002-07:00

Dear Longtime Friends,

This is your friend Victor. How's it going? I know it has been a while. First and foremost, I want to apologize for not showing up at the high school reunion. I would've made it there, but I was busy with work and helping people. I was available, but I didn't have the money. I was thinking about you guys. It is good that you all had a blast! Hopefully soon, I may see some of you randomly when I'm out and about. You know, surprises do happen every once in a while. And I see it happening too. Just have a little faith. It is always in the unseen.

Hebrews 11:1 - "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen."

You know, I am still working on my plans, but a little at a time. I am still writing my memoir, and it will be published real soon. I will keep you posted if I can. Hopefully (if the Lord willing), I would like to organize a get together as a book release party. Each of you will possess a free copy of my book autographed and signed by yours truly! Hehehe... I'm just thinking ahead. But I do hope and pray for a good outcome. I still have lots to do on there, but don't worry, all of you will be mentioned in the credits as my high school class in the back of the book. Listen, I'm just trying to make up of lost time. As I said earlier, I am busy trying to set foot into school. There is still lots of work for me to do. I have to work on my G.E.D. first. Please pray for me that I accomplish these goals. Here is my only problem, I have too much time on my hands, and I haven't been doing much action. I've been doing all this talk about it, but I made a little or no action. You see, faith without works is dead. Having said that, I just need to put it to action and fruition.

It has been a decade since we've been out of high school. Once again, I regret not showing up at the high school reunion. I could have obtained some money, but it was no big deal. If the Lord willing, I will see you all again soon. I've been praying for you guys though. Not THAT was even better for me. At this time, I am trying to plant a seed for the life I've never had growing up. I hope to go places and discover new things. I believe I've already planted a seed, and I won't see the fruit until sometime in the near future. There is no need to worry. You see, because ever since we parted ways ten years ago, I basically lost touch with most of you, except that we were able to re-connect and chat over the internet. I lost touch with many of you through face-to-face, and through eye contact, and even through our voices.

I want to take this time out and thank you all for taking the time to read this letter which I've wrote. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don't back down for anyone; not even the Devil our enemy and adversary. Stay strong and wise in the Lord Jesus Christ! Until Next Time...

Respectfully Yours with Humble Regards,

Victor Kendrick II (Brother Vick)

P.S. Once again, I am still writing my book, and I hope to get it published soon. When it is done, I will let you know, and hopefully, we can come together so that you can possess an autographed copy of my memoir. I just want to endow a piece of my life's story with you. With that being said, you guys know me from high school, but you guys have no idea of the things what I've seen, been through, done, and experienced. I could say the same for those who grew up with me. As what the people of old used to say, "A Heap See, But a Few Know". Thank you for listening to me. Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, & Many Blessings!!! God Speed!!!

Suburban Summer II (volume 2): The Neighborhood Block Party

2016-06-11T09:49:00.002-07:00

Greetings friends, here is another weblog chapter series of "Suburban Summer" which I am composing. This particular event took place in my neighborhood, but elsewhere. You already know that I normally record events of fun which mostly happens two houses away from mine whether I can record it afar off, or I could just walk to the view and see for myself and enjoy. I am now trying to stick to my word that whatever happens in my neighborhood like fun stuff, I will make an effort to try and write about it and post it here. So without further ado, please enjoy the blog...

On June the 4th, it seemed like a typical Saturday at first. I was doing my same ol' routine. Later, I went to my neighborhood corner store to buy a few things and went home for a quick second. And then I went back to do a little work for the store clerk. All I basically did was break down cardboard boxes and discard them into the dumpster. I got paid afterwards. And after I was heading elsewhere, my sister's friend wanted me to help her with the hew grill she had bought from Walmart. So I proceed to her house, she gave me the kit, and I proceed to her backyard to set it up. It took me about a half an hour to get it done. She had children with her and later at night, I was invited to her house to have s'mores with the kids. Anyway, back on the topic, I then walked around the block because I heard music playing by a live D.J. The music was playing throughout the neighborhood. And as I was walking to the place where the event took place, I saw some friends and they were happy to see me. I was offered food and drink, and a friend of mine paid for it for me. I ate inside. The people were nice. May Jesus Christ bless him. At this particular event, it was about motorcycles and riders that ride them. It was a yearly anniversary. Out side, I bought me some Italian Ice made by a good friend of mine. I stayed humble when I was present there. The people on the motorcycles were racing on that one road. I I had my phone with me, but too bad I didn't take it out of my pocket to record the commotion. I wish I did, but I didn't. But I did enjoy the view though. I didn't stay long, because I had to go my way. Maybe next year, I might squeeze in about an hour or less to enjoy the view. The event took place at the same place last year, and I even went to see what's up. I eventually walked home. As I was walking, I was enjoying my Italian Ice which my friend made.

As I was laying halfway on my bed reflecting my activities on the day, someone visited us. I had my blinds ajar. I thought it was another person, but it was actually my uncle. I was happy to see him. He kept us company until dark time. Later, I had to get my clothes ready for church the next morning.

When it was all said and done, it was a good day. As what rapper Ice Cube stated, "Today Was A Good Day!" To me, it was more than just that. Thank God! So I went to bed, and called it a a day!

Be God's!

Brother Vick!

Suburban Summer (volume 2): Pre-Memorial Day Sunday Afternoon

2016-06-07T16:53:00.001-07:00

Greetings One and All,

This is your friend Vic coming to you once more with another blog of "Suburban Summer". First and foremost, I want to apologize to my readers for not posting a blog relating to the subject, for nothing really happened during the previous year before. So without further ado, here is my story, and I hope it takes your mind somewhere. Hehehe...

The day was socially fun. On the typical Saturday evening at two houses away from mine, I saw that there were chairs were being set in the backyard of the designated area. At first, I was wondering what was happening. I was already taking a walk to the store to run a few errands and back. I even took a walk to my grandparents' house around the corner just to pay them another visit. Couple of days before, I was helping my other grandmother do some cleaning. Anyway: back on topic, I was doing a bit of walking because I was a bit bored. When nighttime came, I was getting ready for the next day, because I had to go to church in the morning. So I drifted off to sleep...

So after I came home from church, I walked into the house to get some water to drink because I was a bit "parched". Oh yeah, the music was playing from two houses away from mine. Vehicles were filling then street. All day, the DJ was playing from a variety of Hip-Hop, R&B, Neo-Soul, and Blues music. I had my bathroom window opened to get some air from outside, but the music was playing. It was like another dimension of a XM/Sirius Satellite Radio, even when you're outside working in your garden. I even ran a few more errands for someone as I was listening to the music playing by a live DJ. All day, I was sitting in my bedroom being bored trying to find something productive to do. Minutes later, my dad called me to the living room and told me that I should go to the party. So I did. I went to the designated area to see what's up. Plethora people were there chilling out and having fun. I proceeded inside to get something to eat. The people there were nice. I even met the DJ. Of course I didn't stay long (I wish I did though.)

When time was passing by, it was getting dark. The people were still partying. When it was around 12 A.M., they were wrapping the party up and bringing it to a close. Vehicles and people were leaving the scene, and it was back to a quiet night.

Thank you all for listening to me. I try to stay attentive to what goes on in my neighborhood and I bring it to fruition. Just use your imagination. Close your eyes and picture the scene as I structure and paint it for you. Have a nice one.

-Vic

A Letter To My Longtime Friends XI: Class Commemoration Jubilee

2016-05-27T13:16:00.001-07:00

Dear Longtime Friends & Brethren,

This is your brother in Christ Victor. How's it going? As you guys can see, I am commemorating the tenth year anniversary of our high school graduation! I will forever cherish the moments we did. This is the day that we should backtrack and reminisce on the good days we had back then. I'm not saying that we should live in the past, for we also had bad times and went through them. May 27, 2006 was the big day for us. All throughout our school days, we kept the faith, and looked forward to the finish line! Today is May 27, 2016, and it has been a DECADE since we've been out of high school. God has really blessed us throughout the years. We were gathered together for the final time. Here is my take on the story...

On May 26, 2006, we went to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church to practice walking together. We first went into some large room which resembles a school classroom with no blackboard. And then we walked to the sanctuary. Earlier, I picked up a few more tickets to give some to my friends so they could attend my graduation. We then went home to get ready for the next day. At night, my brother and I drifted off to bed, for we were both graduating. When the morning rays of sunshine spilled on my eyes, I woke up. I took a good shower. We got dressed and put on our caps and gowns. When everyone was dressed, we got into the car, and went straight to the designation where our graduation took place. I got out of the car with confidence.When we went inside, we once again went into this room. We received our scarves with "CGHS" and "2006" on them. A few moments later, we were told that we could "get it out of our systems" (heavy cheering).We then walked out the backdoor of the room and walked the outside path which leads back in the building through another door to line up in the hallway so we could walk together. As we were lined up in the hallway, my mother was extremely proud. There, I was thinking that there was no turning back! We've made it this far to turn around. When the graduation march song was being played, we then walked together. (For those who don't know, "Pomp and Circumstances" is the name of the graduation tune.) We walked in two straight lines straight to the choir stand. We were given the signal to sit down together. Everyone in the audience were cheering us on and they were overjoyed. We sung our Alma Mater called "Saints Forever", and a Gospel song "I Am Here". My grandmother loved that performance. Almost at the end of the ceremony, we tossed our caps in the atmosphere! When it was over, we then marched through the sanctuary isle to proceed outside. We greeted each other before we parted ways. Pictures were taken, handshakes were extended, hugs were given, and even some kisses from some. We even exchanged more autographs. I tell you, it was the proudest day of my life! I can't speak for eveyone, for some of you might think it was bittersweet. To each his own. When we parted ways, we went home. I then went to my grandparents' house for a graduation party. I really had a smile on my face! I was in PEACE! My whole summer was peaceful too. God has been gracious and merciful to us. He has kept us throughout our school days.

NUMBERS 6:24-26

"The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace"

Folks, I am still working on getting my things straight like college and work, which I am looking forward to. I've been reading and studying my Bible and being a minister to the lost who need to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and that He died on Calvary's cross, buried, and rose again. We all need a Savior. All you have to do is to put your Faith, Trust, and Hope in Christ alone for salvation. When Christ comes back for us to take us believers into Heaven, that will be the REAL graduation to eternal life.

JOHN 3:16

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but lave everlasting life."

Anyway, I want to thank you all for taking your time to read this letter which I have written unto you. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don't back down for anyone. I wish you Peace, Joy, Serenity, Tranquility, and Exceeding Blessings from God the Father through Jesus Christ our Lord, and the Holy Ghost!

Brother Vick!

P.S. I am still working on my memoir. Chapter after chapter, and page by page. When it gets published, I hope to meet you all once more in person for a High School Class Reunion so I can promote my book. If the Lord willing, I'll do it. Thanks again, and I love you all! God Speed!

Suburban Summer: The Late Anticipated Article (08-11-2012)

2016-02-08T00:33:00.001-08:00

Greetings once again, this is your friend Victor coming to you with another late weblog entitled "Suburban Summer" Though the title remains the same, I would like to apologize to my readers for not posting this blog in time, for I was late. So shame on me. Anyway, I hope you have something to snack on with you as I narrate this blog. Just close your eyes and picture a scene as I paint it for you. Okay, here we go...

On August 11, 2012, I thought it was some typical tedious day as it seemed. That day, I was finishing up some work for my neighbor. I was working for long hours. I did however take a few breaks though. I was pulling weeds away from gardens and I was cutting dead leaves from her plants and elephant ears. It was taking me a long time because it was plethora work. I did eventually worked my way though. By the time when I was finished, I saw my cousin walking the road. I was wrapping everything up. My cousin and I talked about things as we were walking to our grandparents' house. I grabbed my green steel water bottle to carry with me. My cousin and I were chatting until we made it there. I greeted my grandparents, and then I proceeded to the kitchen to put ice in my water bottle. My grandmother was making sure that I washed my hands first because she knew that I was working for my neighbor. After we spent some time, I then walked home. My cousin and I were talking about college (which I am still working on trying to set foot into). I stayed home for a few hours, and then my dad asked me to walk with him on the street, so I walked with him. And just a block away from mine, there was a live party going on. At first, we were looking for someone; we did, and then another person asked us to stay and we were welcome anytime. We stayed there for a while, and we ate some food: I had fried fish and fruit salad. Music was played by a live band and a disc jockey. I later had dessert, which was brownies and ice cream. And while I was there, I met two ladies who used to work at a day care I used to be at when I was ages 7-9. People were having a blast! It was someone's birthday. Oh, earlier that day when I was busy, I was hearing music. I didn't know where it was coming from. When we walked home, I called it a day. So all of this had put my boredom to bed. I even tried repelling it off by doing some work during the day, but the party event had knocked it out cold! Anyway, thank you for listening to me.

Be God's.

Confronting My Own Greedy and Selfish Motives

2016-02-07T22:13:00.000-08:00

As a sincere man of God, I feel the need to call this off. Even though I humbly serve the Most High and others, there is a sin which I am kind of struggling with. Even though I don't do it on purpose, it still needs to be confessed and repented of. As a Bible-believing, Holy Ghost-filled Christian, it is up to me to take immediate action and be responsible for my own actions. As followers of Christ Jesus, we ought to be in continual repentance, according to our sinful nature.

For example, being greedy is not only disrespectful to peers, but also disrespectful to self. Let's say if one conducts a giveaway at a place, and there is a gathering at that particular place. The conductor of the giveaway asked every individual to be mindful of the person standing behind another person. Whenever something like this happens, thoughts of greed runs through my mind, but not every time. A person is supposed to wait until everyone gets served first. As stated earlier, it does not happen to me every time. It is true that we sin everyday according to our sinful nature; so therefore, we must repent daily. Being greedy is a no no. It is unfair to our peers and everyone. My aunt once said, "A greedy person won't have nothing." That is absolutely true, because those who exalt themselves will be abased according to the Sacred Scriptures. If we have a problem with anything, we should go to the Lord for help, and He will fix it, no matter the situation. Sometimes; even rarely, I think about taking more than what I am being offered. You see, we need to be considerate about others. It is like going to a formal dinner, or a party, or anything on any occasion, you ask for seconds, and the conductor asks you to wait until everyone else gets served. So I have no choice but to call this off and confess it. We are not perfect, but God still loves us unconditionally. If we are serving the Living God, then we must humble ourselves under His mighty hand.

LUKE 14:11

"For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

Another example, let's also say there is a duty which anyone may volunteer doing. If a little child wants to play cards with friends and wants to deal the cards each time. When the kid gets real selfish with dealing cards, an adult tells him or her to let someone else to deal the cards. This is somewhat the same with me. As a Christian, I attend church. As you know, the vast majority of churches across the nation does the "tithes and offerings", which is part of church service. After every person had gave, then a person prays for the blessing of the offering. Each time when I pray over them, I mostly feel the need to do it every time. One time, my cousin gave me a rebuke and told me to let someone else bless the offering sometines, because I was being a little selfish. I thanked him for letting me know about it and the reproof. As I said once before, "I think it is good to accept correction from someone when we get carried away doing certain things, even by accident. I believing listening and being humble are part of it. Pride is the sin that is of the flesh." When we are wrong on some points, when we get carried away doing certain things, and when we get greedy, selfish, and prideful at times, we need to be corrected on and rebuked for them.

PROVERBS 9:8

"Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee."

As you already know, I detest greed, pride, and selfishness. But at some point, we must clean up our own backyard and confess our own faults. We all make mistakes, have our imperfections, and fall, but we can always get back up and confess our faults for the better. We all grow, and learn things as we walk with God. As Christians, there is always a hunger for more wisdom, discernment, knowledge, and understanding.

JAMES 5:16

"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

Well, this was a brief confession of my own errors. So I ask for your prayers as I continue to walk with our Lord and I pray for you. Thank you all for listening to me.

Be God's!

-Brotha Vick for Life!

Suburban Summer RELOADED [The Introduction]

2014-07-12T16:25:00.003-07:00

Ladies and gents, here is the moment we have all been waiting for: a new "Suburban Summer" weblog series. I know, it has been a long time coming. I began composing the first chapter blog back in the summer of 2007, for that is when it all started. In the summer of 2008, I completed two segments of the blog "Suburban Summer"; one for one night, and one for the other. In the summer of 2009, it was a bit different, but I still saw some action though. In 2010, it was me and some relatives of mine went to clean up the designated area where it all took place, but nothing really happened, even though we were preparing for a conception of new summer fun activities. In 2011, it was all barren and fruitless, because nothing happened. In 2012, it was making a comeback because the people in my neighborhood wand and need some fun in their lives. Anyway, please read this latest blog which I composed as I narrate it for you.

On July 4, 2014 on Independence Day, it seemed like a typical day. I woke up in the morning and walked the roads a bit while the morning weather was cool and calm. Thank God that the weather was suitable for me. It wasn't even really hot that day. After I had done my morning exercise, I walked back home to chill. I then slipped in my new sneakers my grandmother bought for me, for she and the rest of my family had grew tired of seeing me with my black steel-toed boots. My other grandmother said they were "winter boots". Several minutes later, my aunt came by and game me an Arizona Fruit Punch beverage. Personally, I am a fan of their drinks, including SoBe. Anyway, back on topic: During the day, I was killing some time playing Solitaire on my dad's laptop. I did however do outside from time to time. A few hours later, a someone came by to visit us. I was given five dollars to spend at the corner grocery store while my dad was gone somewhere for a while. As I was walking to the store, I stopped at my friends' house because they were having a cookout. I really stopped to visit there, but I was offered something to eat to take home. I went to the store first to buy my things, and then I went back to pick my food up. I gave them thanks and I went on my way.

As I was walking home, my neighbor who loves a house away from mine on the same road, we greeted each other, and he told me that they were also having a cookout, and he welcomed me there. The road was filled with vehicles. So I immediately went home to sit my things down so I could eat them later, and then I grabbed my keys to lock up the house and went to the designated area, and then I was greeted by a nice young lady who did my plate for me. I stayed there for a while and I was socialized with friends there. From time to time, I went to check on the house to see if it was okay or not. Oh yeah, they had games there too. They asked me to play Tug-of War with them. It was a bunch of people playing. I was on one team. I played as hard as I could, but too bad that my team lost. The other team was pulling the rope, so we fell on the ground. But still, it was fun. I was watching the kids and the teenagers playing kickball. While I was there, I remained humble, for I have the Spirit of meekness in me, which is a gift from God. Later there, we had flavored Italian Ice there. I was having a load of fun there. As I said before, "I'm gonna have fun every chance I get!" When it got almost dark, I bade farewell to the people, but before that, me and the person was talking about like and Jesus Christ and what He did for us. We talked about Eternal Salvation, which is a gift from God. We CANNOT lose our salvation for any reason. When I went home, I called it a day. I then stepped outside to watch the fireworks. Later, the atmosphere was clear again, and it went back to a quiet night. I later drifted myself to sleep around midnight. I had leftovers that time, but it wasn't until the next day, I was grubbing on them after I mowed my lawn using my brother's lawnmower. Anyway, thank you for taking the time to read this blog. I wish you all Peace, Tranquility, Serenity, and Multiple Blessings from the Almighty God. Have a good one.

Be God's!

A Letter To My Longtime Friends X: Class Jubilee

2014-05-27T18:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Longtime Friends,

This is your friend Victor. Today is May 27, 2014, and I am in celebration of the eighth anniversary of our high school graduation. I remember the day when we were gathered together as one for that very big special day at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. We dressed ourselves in caps and gowns, and we were ready to walk that line. Listen, I woke up in the morning kind of early, I got in the shower to freshen up, my brother and I got dressed, we got into the car as we took our caps and gowns with us. Our high school graduation ceremony was held at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, where Bishop Eddie L. Long is the senior pastor. We got out of the car and we walked into the church. My brother and I walked into this particular room where we were gathered together for the final time. There in the room, we received our scarves with "Class of 2006" printed on it to wear around the necks. We then went out through another door, and then we proceed into the church hallway through another way. We were lined up in the hallway to walk that line. We were exceedingly excited. We walk together in two straight lines on both sides. Surely, there was no turning back! Everyone in the audience were so joyful. to see their children graduating. A valediction was made, an uplifting song "I Am Here" was sung [my grandmother really enjoyed that song], we received our diploma jackets, we even tossed our caps into the air, but we caught them back though. Last, but not least, we walked together out of the church building. Outside, we greeted family and friends. Hugs and kisses were given, handshakes were extended, pictures were taken, autographs were exchanged, and warm smiles were given to each other. We eventually bade farewell to each other, and then, we parted ways. I am telling you guys, our high school graduation was the proudest day of my life. I was overjoyed, for I was filled with so much joy! I was exceeding happy and joyful. It was truly a blessing for us.

"And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another." - Romans 15:14

In about a month or two, I will try to take the General Educational Development test. The high school diploma I graduated with is not your typical average diplomas, so I will have to do something about it. A couple of months ago, I went up to Georgia Piedmont Technical College to see how I can attend. Hopefully I will complete two years for an Associates' degree and graduate, and hopefully and prayerfully, will attend a private four-year historical college or university of my choice. But before I do all that, I will have to complete X, Y, & Z first. Please pray that I will meet these accomplishments. I've been talking about it for years. I missed eight years of college, and I am tired of procrastinating. Oh yeah, I am still writing chapters for my memoir, and I have about ten chapters done. I still have plethora work to do. Due to the fact that I've been busy talking about it, I just haven't produced any fruit yet. I am working on it!

Anyway, I want to thank you for talking the time to read this article I composed. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don't back down for anyone. I wish youPeace, Joy, Serenity, Tranquility, and Exceeding Blessings from our Lord Jesus Christ!

VIC

A Letter To My Longtime Friends IX: The Formal Epistle

2014-01-16T03:35:00.001-08:00

Dear Longtime Friends of Mine,

This is your friend Victor, who is also your spiritual brother in the Lord. How are you guys? It always feel good to write this letter. As always, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. No matter what we go through in life, we will continue to have faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. I am still a strong and wise young man who loves God. Of course, we have tribulations to endure. Back on December 21, 2011, my mother passed away in the hospital. My heart was cut in half. It was like walking on pieces of broken glass. I attended her funeral on Christmas Eve right before Christmas Day. My mother's death was unexpected. It is true that we should expect the unexpected. My brother and I kind of had the feeling that she was going to end up dying anyway, but it was just too soon. It was really a shocking awakening for me. I really miss her. The Lord is still Good. It is good that she is not suffering anymore. She was a believer on Christ Jesus for her eternal salvation. If you put your Faith, Trust, and Hope in the Lord Jesus Christ, and that he died on the cross for your sins, and rose again from the dead, then you are saved. This is God's simple plan of eternal salvation. That's all there is to it; nothing else is needed. It is His promise that every person who believes on Him. God is NOT a liar. He has us covered. So let us continue to love and pray for one another.

John 14:1-4 [King James Bible]
"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know."

As you know, I am still reading and writing. I have a passion for writing. After we parted ways from each other as a farewell back then, I was still thinking about doing some Writing as one of my official careers. Speaking of writing, I am still on the move my bringing my future plans to fruition. I am thinking about attending a two-year community college first to earn my Associates' degree, and then I will proceed to a four-year college or university of my choice for another two years to earn a Bachelor's degree in English literature. I want this to be one of my official careers. I want to write books. When I do this, I will abstain from fame. I don't want to become famous for my work. As a matter of fact, I want to be independent with my work, but I want to be underground as well. I don't mind having a fan base or winning an award, but I want to stay out of the mainstream media, paparazzi, and so on. And while I'm in a four-year college or university, I will make an effort to try and join a Greek-lettered college fraternity when I get a chance. Whenever I surf the internet, I post blogs at any given time. I love writing. It is one of my hobbies. God has blessed me with this talent and gift. I might have to try and write and publish a memoir or an autobiography. When I do write and publish the book, it will be dedicated and bestowed to you all, including my family members. When I was 11 years of age, my father interviewed me. He asked me what do I want to be when I grow up, and I said that I want to be a writer. In my teenage years, I thought about becoming a judge, a sanitation worker, and a professional Soccer athlete. But I decided to stick to what God has blessed me with. I may have a second career as a landscape architect, a veterinarian, a fire marshal, or maybe a journalist. If I have any of those as a secondary career, I will pray that God will bless me with the skills, courage, and the ability to do those things. If the shoe fits, then I will wear it. If the Good Lord sees fit, then I will proceed. My Faith Him is sufficient. I don't know what my future holds; but whatever the Lord has for me, will be willing to take what is offered of Him. God has everything in store for His people. Whatever we ask, it shall be given unto us, but we should ask in faith.

Matthew 7:7-8 [King James Bible]
"Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth: and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."

Whenever I think about the days of old, I remember the good old days and times I had and spent: especially with my mother, who is now deceased. I had an uncle who was my pastor. Sadly, he passed away in March of 2010; and a few days later, our longtime friend Jonathan Holloway passed away. One month later, another longtime friend Damian Powers passed away. Don't forget about Mrs. Tate (English teacher), and Coach Harper who passed away in the same year, and that's how it is. Back in 2005 in the month of November, I lost my grandfather. I loved him dearly. But when my uncle and Jonathan died in the same week of the same month, it hit me in the head real hard. It was like a hard punch in the stomach for me. My mother once told me when I lose a loved one, it is like a hole in my heart. She was right. In January of 2013, I lost my neighbor. I loved her dearly as well. She was like a second mother to me. In this world we will go through trials and tribulations. When my mother had gotten sick in April of 2011, it was the embryo of my hardships until her death, and things got bad. Here on earth, things can get a whole lot worse, but when Jesus Christ comes back, he will come in the clouds, and he will blow the trumpet, and then he will come and take us and the rest of the believers in Christ Jesus away. And oh yeah, we will see our loved ones again too. That is called the Second Coming of Jesus Christ…

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 [King James Bible]
"But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus with God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with him in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words."

A Message About Hope:
Since we are believers on Jesus Christ and are eternally secured in him unto the day of redemption, we have hope. I will continue to pray for you guys. Ever since we made valedictions to each other on May 27, 2006, and parted ways, our friendship has been strong and it is still living today. But we are more than just that; we are spiritual Christian brethren under the blood of Jesus Christ. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers, for I am personally undergoing trials, hardships, and tribulations. And also, let us keep those who go to school in our prayers. I am keeping those who I don't know personally, all of the persecuted Christians, and the lost as well. When I pray for the lost, I know that God is breaking down the barriers that the Devil has set up in the minds of the unsaved. So I am hoping and praying for their conviction by the power of the Holy Ghost and their repentance.

Lamentations 3:20-26 [King James Bible]
"My soul hath them in remembrance, and is humbled in me. This I recall to mind, therefore I have hope. It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD."

As stated earlier, we will go through trials and tribulations, but God will bring us through them. THere is so much going on in this world. When you turn on the news, read the newspaper, or whatever, you will you will read and hear about all the drama, violence, and all the bad things. There are diseases spreading, numerous deaths, rumors of war, and whole lots more. The Lord will keep us strong. We will remain faithful until the end of time. Even though our loved ones like buy grandfather, my great-grandparents, my uncle, and out longtime high school friends no longer walk this earth, we will meet up in the Kingdom of Heaven. The Lord will make all things new. Read Revelation 21:4-5 for yourself.

Revelation 21:4-5 [King James Bible]
"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither there shall be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words and true and faithful."

As we all know, we all want some fun and joy in our lives. I have said this over a year, I'm gonna have fun every chance I get!" We miss out on certain things sometimes: it is either we don't have the money, or we are going through some stuff. Listen to this, I personally believe that every hardship we suffer, it only makes us better and even stronger. It is like a wound that is destined to be healed. Also, when a thunderstorm is over with, then the beautiful weather comes out with fresh air; sometimes a rainbow appears. You see, peace eventually prevails right after our troubles. Faith is just the key: without it, we're stuck! Since we have Faith in our Holy Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ, we can make it through anything. And another thing, PATIENCE is part of it too: for it is the essential work during our times of affliction. The Holy Bible supports this. People always utter this saying "Time Heals." And I agree, time does heal, if only we let patience do her work. Whatever bad thing we go through, it also means that our peace is under spiritual maintenance. But we must have wisdom and understanding. You see, peace comes from our Lord Jesus Christ. Our Faith in Him overcomes this world. I encourage each and everyone of you, NEVER QUIT PRAYIN'! My mother always told me to stay strong. Now I am passing it onto you guys. As for me, I am determined at this time, but I hold onto my patience (as what I mentioned earlier). At the same time, I am confident, because I know I will make it through and win, because I walk by faith, not by sight. It feels like I am locked up in an invisible dungeon while in bondage with shackles on my wrists and my ankles, and behind bars that is keeping me from doing things which I enjoy normally. I've been stuck in this rut for so long. I've been depressed as well. I even broke down and cried a couple of times, but God has sustained me. Imagine if you guys were in my shoes, you would see how tough times can get, but I am still walking with the Lord. Listen, I love you guys unconditionally, and will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers, no matter what. I will not sleep until freedom shines through for me, which I truly yearn for. Through much hardships, then peace will prevail eventually. Also we will put our bad times behind us. Let's continue to fight the good fight with faith. And by faith, I will triumph over this great divide and be victorious! Much Agape to all of you!

John 16:33 [King James Bible]
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me, ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

I want to thank you all for taking the time to read this letter which I composed. I just love to do this. Let's continue to love one another. Don't back down for anyone. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Thank you for listening to me. Very soon, I long to see and greet you all once more in person. Victory will soon be declared! Don't be dismayed. And I say this in the Spirit of Love!

1 John 4:7-8 [King James Bible]
"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love."

Your Brother in Christ,

Victor Kendrick II [A.K.A. Brother Vic]

P.S. Once again, we must keep each other lifted up in prayer. Listen, I pray for you guys all the time. Please continue to pray for me, because I am undergoing trials, afflictions, hardships, and tribulations. I pray that my faith and my patience during my hard times will be made whole. I already know that the Lord is going to bring me through them, so I earnestly and solemnly ask for your prayers. They will be most definitely cherished. I tell you; if only you guys knew, these trying times pretty much knock you down, but we have to get back up though. However, I am still holding onto my peace, because worrying won;t solve anything. Anyway, some of you have started families with children: maybe some of you have gotten married. Listen to this, my brother is now a father and has a son; so therefore, I'M AN UNCLE!!! Vincent Reshard Kendrick Jr. was born on October 13, 2013. Please pray that the Good Lord will strengthen the family as they grow. You see, life is full of surprises. It is really a blessing. The new year 2014 is come! The past year 2013 has been a trying year, but don't worry about me, just pray for me. I'm good. You just gotta have faith as a grain of a mustard seed that goes a long way. In His Name, AMEN FOREVERMORE!!!

"Life will hand you trials and tribulations and will knock you down, but the strongest people are the ones who get back up. God has a plan for all own us. You just have to believe." - LaShawn Merritt

"If there were no tribulation, there would be no rest; If there were no winter, there would be no summer." - John Chrysostom

A Letter To My Longtime Friends VIII: The Annual Class Memorial

2013-05-27T09:02:00.001-07:00

Dear Longtime Friends of Mine,

This is your friend Victor. I graduated with you guys on May 27, 2006 from Cedar Grove High School. I am writing to you all today to remember the past event that we partook in. I don't know about you, but it was the best time of my life. It is definitely the time to remember. That day was also a time of love and exceeding joy. So allow me to narrate this: When we were gathered together for the final time, we were glad to see each others faces. Of course, our high school graduation had took place at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church where Bishop Eddie L. Long is the Senior Pastor. We walked the line while being dressed in our caps and gowns. There was no turning back! We had made it to the spotlight! Awards and recognitions were given. We sang a couple of songs. And oh yeah, we tossed our caps in the air almost in the end. When the ceremony was ending, we walked together through the congregation aisle, and our graduation ceremony had came to a close. Outside of the church building, we greeted each other (including those who taught us in class). Handshakes were extended, pictures were taken with each other, hugs and kisses were given, and gifts were exchanged. Our families and friends were proud of us. We even exchanged a few more autographs. We bade farewell, and then we parted ways. Boy, I tell you, this special date was the proudest day of my life! I was happy to get through the trials and tribulations during my school life. The Lord Jesus Christ always protected me from harm. That day was a mighty blessing for me, for it was filled with happiness, love, and exceeding joy. I will never forget that day. As we grow older in age, we will keep this in our remembrance, for it was a joyful time. Let us never forget our past time of our youth.

“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” - 1 Timothy 4:12 KJV

As of today, I am still determined on trying to go to college and getting a job. I have a list of things I want to do. Please keep me in your prayers that I will accomplish my goals. I hope and pray that I will attend college to earn a degree in English Literature, African-American Studies, Visual Arts, Creative Writing, and anything of the sort. I just love to write. And while I am in college, I will make an effort to try and join a college fraternity. I also hope and pray that I will land a job somewhere. Not just any job, but somewhere I can work with my hands. I am only relying on my Eternal Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who is my light and pathway to Eternal Life, because if you read John 14:6, you will read that He said it. Salvation is totally free. Just simply put your Faith, Trust, & Hope in Him alone, and you will be on your way to the Kingdom of God! That's the simplicity of the Gospel.

Well folks, I sincerely want to thank you guys for taking the time out to listen to me. One of these days, I would absolutely LOVE to meet you guys one day in person, and hopefully, I would love to show up at a high school reunion one of these days. I don't know if there was one in the past. If was, I didn't show up. Other than all of this, please continue to keep me in your prayers.

As always: Remember to stay strong, stay on top of your game everyday, and like I said in my first chapter, Don't back down for anyone! Keep living for our Lord Jesus Christ! I wish you all Peace, Tranquility, & Serenity from the Most High!

In Christ Jesus,

-VIC

“And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:7 KJV

Suburban Summer III: (2009 Late Edition)

2012-09-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

Greetings brothers and sisters, this is your friend Victor coming to you with a late blog edition of “Suburban Summer.” Actually, this is an old new blog. Before I begin narrating this blog, I would like to apologize to my blog viewers for not being on time for the composing of this new blog. My mind was focusing on politics and stuff. I am making up of lost time by doing my make-up work and everything I missed. I am trying to complete my tasks. Anyways, I am going to narrate this blog for you. Please keep your eyes peeled…

Alright folks, on July 2, 2009, it was kind of different. It was a couple of days before the Fourth of July. I was busy helping my neighbor doing her yard. When I was finished, I helped and carried some chairs to a party that was two houses away from mine. It wasn’t anything special: But even though I took a brief visit, I was offered a piece of chicken and a cup of cold water. And while I was there, I saw a longtime friend of mine. He did look familiar. It was great to see him. We chatted for a little bit. After I spent a brief moment, I walked home to eat, and then I walked to my room to play my Sony PlayStation 2. After all this, I called it a day.

That day was basically it. Nothing much happened that day, but I did enjoy the scraps of fun that was left over though. Once again, I apologize for not writing this blog in time when I was supposed to. Anyways, thank you all for listening to me.

P.S. The 2010 Late Edition Chapter Finale of “Suburban Summer” is underway. Please be on the lookout…

A Letter To My Longtime Friends VIII: The Graduation Epistle

2012-05-26T23:49:00.001-07:00

Dear Longtime Friends,

Once again, this is your friend Victor. It has been a long time since we parted ways after our graduation on May 27, 2006 back then. I still remember that day. I will never forget. I will remember our graduation date; even when we grow older 'til we reach our fifties. And not to worry, our high school yearbooks are still the source. At a given rare chance, I get spotted by one of you. This happens every once in a while. I really wonder how things are going with you guys. Please know that I am continuing my thoughts and prayers for you all. I still read my Bible. Even though we are saved by the Grace of God through our Faith in Jesus Christ alone for our salvation, we still have battles to fight everyday. We have trials and tribulations to face and we have to endure and stay strong through them. I experience them at times and I believe every person (including us Christians) will experience and face trials and tribulations sometime now or in the near future. There is nothing new under the sun. Please continue to keep me in your prayers. Remember, I am your brother in Christ. I am surprised that I still remember our event of what happened six years ago, and here is the story:

On May 27, 2006 that Saturday morning, we arrived at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. We were gathered together in our caps & gowns in this particular room. We lined up outside of the room into the hallway which leads to the congregation part of the church. When the music began to play, we walked the line, and the graduation ceremony had begun. Every person in the congregation had received a program booklet. The American pledge was recited, songs were sung, recognitions were mentioned, and diplomas were given, which we have received with a picture when we walked across the stage. Later before the end, we tossed out caps in the air in celebration, but we caught them back though. When it was about to end, we walked together on the line out of the sanctuary. And before you know it, the ceremony had came to a close. Outside of the church building, there were tears of joy because of the happiness of that day, hugs and kisses were given to each other within families, autographs were signed, handshakes were extended, and pictures were taken. Gifts were given too. After we were gathered together for the last time and exchanged everything, we parted ways. Believe me, our graduation day on May 27, 2006 was the proudest day of my life. It was the Lord Jesus Christ himself who blessed us. So it is HIM who we give all the Glory, Laud, Praise, and Honor to. Hours later, we went home to change clothes so I could go to my grandparents' house for a graduation party that was planned for my brother and myself. Ever since then, I have marked this day as an event to remember. I am thinking about writing about two and three books, but one of them needs revision though.

Ever since I graduated from high school, I have yet to go to college. Money is extremely tight at this time. I know I can apply for financial aid, grants, or a HOPE scholarship, but I need to choose one that is easier for me. Absolute NO to Student Loans. The reason why I opposed to student loans is because I don't want to have to pay a gigantic debt. Our country is in enough debt! Know what I'm sayin'? It is a huge burden on those who are college graduates and are struggling trying to pay down the debt. Our politicians need to get off their tails and do something about it. I know there are opportunities out there for me, but there are things at home that I must do first. Please pray for me that I will accomplish my missions and achieve my goals. I am thinking about attending a four year historical college to pursue a degree in English Literature. I just love to read and write. While I am college, I will make an effort to try and join Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Days before my high school graduation, I received an ward from that particular frat. I wasn't present to receive it, but a nice counselor gave it to me the next day. I was pleased. I don't want to work in school to be a school teacher. I have no plans to do that. When I write books, novels, poetry, and other literature, I want to stay independent and sell my work underground. I am not interested in universal attention. I don't want to be famous. The Glory belongs to God himself, and Him only, not any of us whatsoever. Anyways, please continue to pray for me and my family, and I will continue to pray for you.

Anyways, I want to thank you all for taking the time out to listen to me. I do long to see you all in person real soon. When I do get to college soon, I will always keep my Bible with my and I will continue to be prayed up. Remember to stay on top of your game everyday .Always keep the Faith in Christ Jesus. We have Eternal Salvation in Him. I wish you all Peace, Blessings, Serenity, and Tranquility from the Lord above.

Your Brother in Christ,

-VIC!

P.S. I will continue to keep my brothers and sisters in Christ in my prayers. Continue to walk on the narrow path, which it leads to Heaven (eternal life) through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2006 FOREVER!
***A CLASS TO REMEMBER***
~LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST~

Academic Supremacy II: Efforts & Abilities

2012-03-11T10:05:00.003-07:00

This is the second chapter of my previous blog entitled “Academic Supremacy”. In my last weblog chapter, I talked boldly about grade levels and them being separated into five teams from A-E, which I believe to be irrational, and some of the students boasted to be smarter than the other; but inwardly, they were filled with hypocrisy. I used to be a hypocritical person who boasted to be smarter and better, and my instructor and my friend had to correct me for it. That was the time when I was in elementary school in the fifth and sixth grade. But more important than this introduction, I want to talk about another event that has happened in my middle school times. This is just an article of a brief rant which was on my mind I want to share for the moment. So allow me to walk with you though this rant…

On a school day, I was paying attention to the morning announcements given by the Student Council; which were broadcasting on every television on channel 6 during morning throughout the school building. They mentioned a program called “No Pass, No Play”, which was some contest. It wasn’t some typical contest, but it was very different though. It was sort of like one person winning the lottery, but this has nothing to with money. The rules stated that each classwork and homework we accomplish, we get a ticket with our names on them to be placed in the drawing. One month later, a staff pulls from the drawing, the continuous snare of the drum roll sounds, and only one person is the winner, and the prize was a “Sony PlayStation 2”. Winning a contest is a good thing, but there was no consolation prize for the rest of the students though. So it was basically like, “Many Will Enter, One Will Win.” Though it was a good thing that they kept us focused on our work assignments in school, but there was only one prize for only one person. Even though hundreds of students entered the contest, only one is the winner. When they was announcing the pulling of the winner after the drum roll, They showed the Sony PlayStation 2 presented as a winners’ trophy. I think it was good for the school to keep us focused on our tasks. Speaking of tasks, I have everyday tasks like maintaining my aluminum can collection, my penny and loose change collection, and whole lots more. I believe that every person of the human race has special tasks, just like God Almighty has given every man the measure of faith (the ability to believe). As Christians, we are called by God to serve Him. Thankfully, we are saved by the Grace of God through our Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord, Savior, and Master, Since I am a Bible-believing Christian, I am here to please God, not man. We are on this earth for a reason.

“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” - Romans 12:3 [King James Bible]

So after it was all said and done, everyone gave it their best shot. Being a doer of tasks is a lot better than sitting around doing nothing. Speaking of “No Pass, No Play”, it was a Texas legislature that came in power on August 8, 1985, which was proposed by Ross Perot, and was signed into law by Mark White, who was the Governor of Texas at the time. So; in order for the students to participate in extracurricular activities, they must have a passing grade in all of their classes. No failing grade whatsoever, not even one F. It has been said. “Education Comes First”. In my opinion; it also means “Work First, Play Later”. I happen to agree with this policy. In case you didn’t know, this policy has been carried out in the state of Georgia, the state where I reside. It is like earning alms and money. You worked hard for it, you are in a good spirit to receive what you worked for. Even if people sometimes enter any physical contest but don’t win, their efforts and abilities were the core values of life, and they remain important today to us as humans. They are important to our everyday lives. I have been in a number of contests throughout my educational years. I’ve on Third Place in the Spelling Bee when I was in the sixth grade in elementary school. When I was in high school, I entered the Black History essay writing and drawing contests, but I didn’t win, but in 2005, I received honors from my History teacher, which was good. Give it your best shot; it is better than not trying at all. Efforts and Abilities are better than money!

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” - Ecclesiastes 9:10 [King James Bible]

Sometimes you enter a contest to win something you desire. Even if you don’t win, you still have your efforts and abilities. At the end of the day, all you did was your best. It is better than being a couch potato and refusing to try. Thank you all for listening to me. God Bless.

-VIC