The Straight Truth

Experience The Penny Stock Market.

2012-02-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

Experienced Stock Traders do not recommend buying any stock priced less than five dollars because they are not part of the New York Stock Exchange. However, penny stocks have been skyrocketing and are readily available. Penny stocks are from various companies traded on the bulletin board. The companies they are from can be of any service, sector or industry that does not have the numbers high enough to be listed on the stock exchange, and because of this are considered bad investments. However Penny Stocks can turn out to be a good investment for the small trader or someone who wants to make money without risking large amounts of cash.

But if you are not sure which of these stocks to buy; I suggest researching them.

The internet has subscriptions to newsletters surrounding buying or trading that can help you make a good investment.

There is also a way to find undervalued stock by using a free penny stock screener. By using a screener you can create a list of bargain buys.

A powerful tool that allows you to cut your research short is offered on Yahoo. Search and sort by Category in:

1) Data Share

2) Profitability

3) Sales

4) Ratios of Value

5) Estimates by Analyst

6) Share Price must be set to $10.00 max (only retrieve penny stocks.

Here is a short list of penny stock screeners:

• Aol Penny Stock Screener.

• Morningstar Penny Stock Screener.

• Market Watch Penny Stock Screener.

• Yahoo Finance Penny Stock Screener.

Whether you are new to the penny stock market or an experienced penny stocks trader; I hope this article helped you decide to pursue a future in penny stock investing.

Get Tax Lien Certificates & Help The Homeless & Yourself

2011-10-26T00:33:00.000-07:00

The Rise in the number of homeless families has easily exceeded 97% causing a 53% surge in the poverty rate and is continually increasing due to forced retirement, layoffs, downsizing and companies relocating.

No one is immune to the effects of being displaced from your home and job. Tent cities are popping up everywhere.

Receiving unemployment isn’t a certainty anymore so where can we help? As an advocate for those who are displaced for whatever the reason; a solution has been discovered, although it may require the participation of more than one investor. Let me present “The Tax Lien Certificate Program”. What is a Tax Lien Certificate?

A tax lien certificate is a lien on property unpaid taxes. Every year owners of real estate property has a financial obligation to pay taxes on their real estate. If property taxes are paid on time; the tax lien is removed. If taxes are not paid on time, the county government allows investors to pay those taxes on behalf of the real estate owner. A winning bidder at the public tax lien auction will receive a tax lien certificate as proof of the purchase. As the new owner of the tax lien certificate; the investor can see two possible outcomes.

1. An annual return of up to 50% per year on what they paid to obtain the tax lien certificate.

2. Through foreclosure; the investor becomes the owner free and clear of any mortgages or mechanics liens.

When an investor becomes the owner of the tax lien certificate all they do is wait until the property owner finally pays his tax obligation at the county tax collector’s office. The original owner must repay what the investor paid to acquire the tax lien certificate with interest. If this happens; the government will contact the investor and ask for the return of the tax lien certificate and when the certificate is returned, the government will generate make a check out in the amount the investor paid to acquire the tax lien certificate with interest.

Tax lien certificates are a very safe investment. Investors understand that property taxes are paid above all, including mortgages. When purchasing tax liens, it's important to do your homework before you bid at the auctions. Although tax lien investing is extremely safe, you want to be certain you bid on the best. When an investor finds a foreclosure; run a title report and find the unpaid property taxes to see if an investment can be made towards the certificate. Tax Lien investing is available in every county in the United States. The only challenge with tax liens is that, auctions occur once a year. If you miss the local auction you have to wait another year. An upside to purchasing tax lien certificates is that most times, the investor wins out and the property can be rented to a needy family affordably, thereby bringing that family out of the homeless situation. Other agencies will work with tax lien certificate property owners and the displaced family to insure that rental on the newly acquired property is paid on time.

What is Foreclosure?

Foreclosure eliminates a mortgagor's right to redeem a mortgaged real estate property. It terminates all rights of the homeowner covered by a mortgage. This is when the property returns to the lending institution.

It begins when the homeowner fails to make payments due on the mortgage at the designated time. This is probably due to unemployment, divorce, medical challenges, terms of the loan, sick of property management or even death.

It is threatened in the effort to enforce payment on the debt secured by a mortgage. Borrowers and lenders face a challenging situation because both wish a compromise that permits a win-win outcome, where the borrower keeps the home or business and the lender continues to receive mortgage payments.

It begins with a demand for payment that usually comes as a letter issued from the lender. The letter of notice is called a Notice of Default. Keep in mind that the notice is a threat to sell the property and terminate all rights to that property causing an eviction from the premises.

Financing Foreclosures.

Most people assume that one has to have money to invest in foreclosures. It is not necessary to have money to start investing. People with bad credit, no money down, or no job can capitalize on foreclosure opportunities. This is now one of the best times to invest in real estate when it comes to buying foreclosures. Locating them might be the biggest challenge. You must research, research, research and find the best locations.

Financing of foreclosures can be done by various techniques.

1. Borrow against a life insurance policy.

2. Assume Seller's Obligations.

3. Transactional Funding.

4. Home Improvement Loans.

5. Home Equity Loans.

6. Find an investment partner.

7. Use banks or other lenders.

8. Take over existing financial obligation.

9. VA loans.

10. Private lenders.

Where to look for foreclosure properties.

 Find foreclosure properties on the web, newspapers, seminars, word of mouth, real estate agents & offices and lending institutions.

 Several foreclosure listing companies sell subscriptions for this information. This is one of the easiest techniques to find properties.

 Newspapers.

 All states are required to post a public notice of auction in a newspaper for all foreclosure properties.

 Place an ad in the newspaper yourself to attract those who are in foreclosure because sooner or later the homeowner realizes they can’t save their home and will be willing to work with you.

 Real Estate Agents.

 Banks are in the lending business and are motivated to sell.

 Property Agents have listing of bank owned property.

 Word of mouth is a technique that all the good investors use. Have business cards printed that state you specialize in foreclosure properties and hand them out to everyone you know.

Stages to buying Foreclosures

1. Create a situation where everyone wins. The homeowner is delinquent on the mortgage payments and is in a position to consider offers made by investors.

2. Locate loans in default.

3. Evaluate property by location, price and condition.

4. Inspect property.

5. Determine market value, repair cost, sales price/profits.

6. Negotiate with the owner and the lender.

7. Close, repair, and profit.

This is one of the best times to buy rental properties because people are trying to sell and banks are extremely motivated. Interest rates low because home values have dropped to their low points. Many investment properties are going cheap. You many find nice homes in great neighborhoods. This will be a very good return on investment especially when you are getting at least $700 or more a month in rent.

Short Sales

A short sale is when a lender accepts a discount on a mortgage in order to avoid possible foreclosure, auction and bankruptcy. You purchase the property directly from the lender at a discount which is accepted as full payment for the loan.

Banks do not like excess inventory or bad loans on their books so when an opportunity comes available where they can sell the property without a big loss; they will sell. Lenders know they would lose a great deal of money if the property goes to auction. This means they would be better off taking the discount.

It is better to short sale if the property is in the pre-foreclosure. In order for this to work properly you must find homeowners in the second stage of pre-foreclosure with more than three payments behind on their mortgage. When a notice of default has been recorded; banks are motivated to sell. Whatever type or condition a house is in; all mortgages can be discounted. The best properties to perform a short sale on are the houses that need lots of work and repairs because lenders will give you a bigger discount.

The bank will request a hardship telling the lender why the homeowner cannot make their mortgage payments. Banks may also request a bank statement, pay stubs and income statements. Send everything they request. They will also ask for a HUD1 and a real estate purchase sales agreement. You will get an answer back from the lender in three weeks or so.

Next is the BPO. This stands for Brokers Price Opinion. A real estate agent will come out and give you their opinion on what the house is worth. The key to a successful bank short sale is the BPO. Try everything you have to that will influence the BPO to come in as low as you can.

Foreclosure Scams

1. EQUITY SKIMMING:

You can't make payments anymore on your home and are desperate and put your home up for sale. A buyer offers to buy your home at full asking price. The buyer claims he will solve all your financial problems by paying off your mortgage. He claims to give you a sum of money after the property is sold. But before he can do that, he suggests you move out right away and deed the property over to him. However, the buyer collects rent for about six or eight months and does not make the mortgage payments. The lender has no choice but to foreclose and all the while you have no idea what's happening because you've moved out. Now your credit is shot and you can’t qualify for a credit card.

As a homeowner, you must set up some sort of a loan servicing company program or trust company to collect and disburse the payments. Then you are sure the payments are being paid.

2. THE BAIT AND SWITCH:

A buyer tells the homeowner he will bring the mortgage up to current while they stay in the home. But he must have documents signed that protect his interest and gives him ownership of the property. Then a few weeks later, the homeowner receives an eviction notice.

3. THE BAILOUT:

The homeowner signs over the deed assuming they will be able to remain in the house as a renter and lease it back from the buyer over time. The homeowner is left with nothing and the buyer walks off with all of the equity.

This real strategy will be very effective if used the right way and is a great way to help homeowners. Make sure you sign a contract with the potential rescuer and if there are any terms you're not sure about and don't know what they mean, go see an attorney.

4. PHANTOM ASSISTANCE:

Online companies who claim to have the magic touch that will stop a foreclosure auction. These companies charge outrageous fees for simple phone calls and paperwork the homeowner could have done. This scam gives homeowners a false sense of hope and prevents them from seeking professional help.

5. COUNSELING AGENCIES:

Most of these are online. They approach you asking you to submit your information for a personal consultation to review your situation. They proceed to offer certain services for a fee. These are all things your lender can assist you with at no charge. Be careful giving anyone money online who claims they can assist you out of foreclosure. There are non-profit organizations and free counseling agencies who are willing to assist.

888-995-HOPE is available to any homeowner in America having trouble paying their mortgage. It is free of charge and provided by the Homeownership Preservation Foundation, which is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving homeownership.

The Truth About Dreams

2011-07-06T11:54:00.000-07:00

This article was emailed to me from a friend. Perhaps as my friends & readers; you would like to view it in it's entirety...Enjoy!

For many 10,000s of years, man has dreamed, in many ways

And the dream has become a multi faceted word, used to describe many different kinds of dreams and dream states.

Most people see a dream as one of three things but how many actually kinds of dream are there?

Let us take a simple look at the main kinds.

DAYDREAM: a dream that basically is a brief thought about things that could happen or a simple fantasy thought

R. E. M DREAM: Rapid Eye Movement dream, this kind of dream is the most common when we sleep

NIGHTMARE: this kind of graphic natured dream can have us waking up screaming

WET DREAM: common amongst teenage males and females, this kind of dream is sexual and can be followed by an orgasm

PREMONITION DREAM: not common in most pal But is a dream of future events, can foretell disasters

LUCID DREAM: a R. E. M dream in which the person is aware of the dream state and able to change the dream path

In another form of dream state are the following

MEDITATION STATE: the visualization state uses the same brain waves and patterns as some dream states

OOBE/ ASTRAL TRAVEL STATE: again the state of advanced dream state on a higher level

PAST LIFE REGRESSION: this kind of dream state can and does work on up to 3 levels of the human mind

HYPNOSIS: this dream state also works on 3 levels of the human mind

For the ease of understanding, this article will focus on 3 levels of the human mind.

The super conscious: level of spiritual and higher thoughts

The conscious: level of every day thinking and normal thoughts

The sub conscious: level of memories and deep thoughts,

The sub conscious plays a big part in day to day life

Giggles there is a simple method behind this madness, giggles

The mind is very complex and for your ease of understanding, it is easier to break the mind down into 3 levels than try to explain how the cobweb filled inside of my head actually works or doesn’t work.

Ok, we have a rough idea of the kinds of dreams and a rough idea of the levels of the mind that work in with these dreams but there is one thing left to look at, what is in the dreams.

Dreams are made up of 3 main areas

Thoughts, images, pictures

Emotions, feeling, senses

Interactive responses (body movement)

Giggles, a lot of people say that dreams are only in your head, giggles, well your partner may disagree if you kick his/her out of bed in the middle of a full on dream.

Ok we go to bed and we shut our eyes and go to sleep.

(I know I know, what planet am I on)

We drift down through the level of relaxation and sleep induced patterns, leaving our conscious mind to work away while we ignore it, (modern science and medicine has noticed that our mind never shuts up, even when we are asleep)

Ok, as an example we will use 100 people to give you an idea on what is happening (apart from the sex and snoring hubbies)

Btw, this will be done in the normal order of dream pattern states, it doesn’t mean you follow this exact pattern every time you enter a dream state.

55 people will have a dream free sleep; possible light sleepers or deep sleepers without r e m sleep patterns

The next 45 will enter what is known as the r e m or alpha wave sleeps pattern, (alpha waves are the thought waves that induce and work in with dreams and dream related states)

15 people will enter normal Rapid Eye Movement dream states

These are normal dreams, they can be in b/w, color silent/ with sound/ short /long/ cartoon like / real life, (dreams are that different to each person that I can spend 20 twenty years describing them but I won’t) the average r e m dream is meant to last only a few seconds, personal, I say, believe it or not.

15 people will enter a full r e m dream state, and this can cover

Nightmares, wet dreams, and other lower sensory dream states

These dreams can be with emotions/feelings and the resulting response, (movement, talking in your sleep, and kicking your partners out of bed).

15 people will enter the lucid Dream State.

Giggles what the hell is a lucid dream?

A lucid dream is where the person in is semi or full r e m dream state, (using the subconscious mind) and to an extent, areas of the conscious mind also awaken into the dream, and you appear to be awake in your dreams, (actually you are asleep but parts of your conscious mind are active in your dreams and hence you can control, think, feel, and have emotional and mental roles in your dream) this dream is recorded into your conscious and when you wake up out of the dream state, it is like you were actually awake in the dream.

It is not uncommon to dream many times a night and yet have no recollection of them, hence a lot of people will say I do not dream, when in fact, they do dream but do not recall having done so.

Ok most of the dream states work in either the sub-conscious or conscious mind, the dreams having to do with buried memories and images, thoughts and otherwise.

It is possible to be in a dream state and be active at the same time, hence sleepwalking, this can happen when the person is actually using their both sub-conscious and conscious mind work together and apart, the person is in a dream state and not aware of doing anything, but the conscious mind guides the human body through the motions of movement, such as kicking, talking, tossing and turning, climbing, sitting and in some cases, walking and carrying out basic tasks.

Because the person is in a deep dream state, they are not aware

That they are doing these activities, till they wake and are told or shown or actually realize that they have been physically active in their sleep.

Many people can relate in some way to the dream states I have talked about for they are a part of most people's normal day to day life, but there are some more forms that are not so common to people in their normal everyday life.

Not all dream states have to be reached in sleep and the following are some of these states.

Meditation is a dream state that can be reached by consciously accessing parts of the brain while awake and conscious.

Meditation simply is moving out of the conscious mind and into the lower more relaxed subconscious mind, using mantras, relaxation techniques or rhythm patterns.

Giggles or in plain English, meditation works by visualization.

The forming of images in the mind, your normal thought patterns are bypassed, you focus in two ways.

Inner meditation: going inside you, or outer meditation, going outside you.

With meditation, going inside or outside, involves the subconscious mind, and when you focus in the spiritual realm, you are accessing the super conscious or higher sensory level on your mind.

Meditation is actually the same as lucid dreaming but you are changing the level at what it happens,

Meditation happens while you are awake

Lucid dreams happen when you are asleep.

Oobe/astral travel is an awesome dream state; all three levels of your mind are accessed during this state.

Oobe/astral travel refers to the state where your mind/spirit

Leave and travel away from your body.

How do we still feel/hear/taste/speak/think while in this state?

When people leave their body, there is an invisible/visible cord that connects people with their bodies, and it is this cord that can carry the info between spirit/body/mind.

I personally am, a conscious/unconscious traveller, I can travel while fully conscious or asleep

It is possible to travel time and space while out of your body,

I have travelled many years into the future and the past.

My memories are buried in my sub-conscious mind but I can access memories in my super-conscious (spiritual) mind

This works in with past life regressions and hypnotherapy

There are many memories and thoughts that are buried in the sub-conscious mind, including past lives

A past life regression can be done with hypnotherapy

The main thing, oobes/past life regression/hypnotherapy share

Is the fact, they all work with the full range of the human mind?

They all start off in the conscious mind, with an idea of what you seek to accomplish.

The opening of the sub conscious mind then follows this

And hidden memories, emotions and patterns of behavior

Then the opening of the super-conscious mind, this is seen as the level where the spiritual realm, higher self, spirit guides and other higher levels of interaction take part and then filters down to the conscious mind.

now, I feel that I have confused the hell out of you and yeah, giggles, I am confused, so I am opening a post section with this to open up all the different areas of the dream states and how they work and how you, as a person can use techniques and Practice to better improve your dream states in waking life.

Things DO Go Bump In The Night!

2011-06-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

Chicago Author Marie Johnson

Many people become afraid of the strange noises around their houses after they have seen a horror movie or someone tells them a good scary story.
But what about those of us that witness; on a regular basis..."Things that "DO" go bump in the night."
True life depictions of "Exorcism" and ghost sightings should make every ones hair stand on end, simply because they are "REAL" and based on facts.
Ghosts are said to be wandering all around us; all the time. Could this be true?
When you witness a bracelet or watch vibrating across a table that is not moving or when there is no breeze in the house and a door slams shut or when someone softly whispers in your ear and it sends chills up your spine but there is no human being around you; ask yourself, "Do I believe in things that DO go bump in the night?"
Ghosts, demons, psychics and disembodied spirit phenomenon is mentioned in the "Bible".
The next time you hear a floor creak or a window shake, remember you just might not be alone.
Sarah (A young lady who wrote me about her encounter)..."I was up late studying for finals when I suddenly felt as if someone was blowing softly on the back of my neck. I turned around quickly and no one was there. Shrugging my shoulders; I returned to my studies and felt someone poke me with their finger in the top of my head. I stood up and looked around the living room; just in case my little brother may be hiding somewhere. At that moment my little brother called from the upstairs hall and asked me to bring him a glass of milk. I stood there frightened for a few seconds and then I closed my books and went up to bed. When my brother asked me why I had not brought him his glass of milk; I answered and told him it was after 3:00 am, which was way too late for drinking milk. When he closed his room door, I turned and looked back down the darkened staircase and shuddered at the remembrance of what had happened to me when I was downstairs studying. I never study alone anymore."
What would you say happened to Sarah?

Spirits and Ghosts

2011-05-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

Spiritism is the belief that nonphysical beings, or spirits, do exist. Those who believe in spiritism are people who often try often to contact the spirits; often of people who have died. In certain circles mediums (psychics) use a séance as a method to contact the spirit world. A séance; which is controlled by a medium and is held in a dimly lit room, where participants gather in a circle, surrounded by candles, in an attempt to contact the spirit world.
The Scripture Deut. 18:10 thru 11 in the Bible tells us, there is a spirit world comprised of angelic and demonic forces. And that we are forbidden to practice spiritism because it may open the practicing person up to demonic influence and oppression: “There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, one who uses divination, one who practices witchcraft, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer. Verse 11 states: “Or one who casts a spell, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead."

Do you believe in ghosts? What are Ghosts? No one knows for sure what they ‘Really” are. But many documented theories center around the experiences of people around the world; since the beginning of recorded history explain “Ghosts” to be a part of human existence and they believe in them. And there also appears to be various kinds of ghosts and hauntings.

Traditionally ghosts are said to be spirits of dead people that for some reason or another, are stuck between our plane of existence and the next plane of their existence; often because their death resulted from some tragedy or trauma. Prominent ghost hunters and psychics believe that these earth-bound trapped spirits, don't know they are dead. Ghost hunter Hans Holzer says, "A ghost is a human being who has passed out of their physical body, usually in a traumatic state and is not aware of his true condition. We are all spirits encased in our physical body. At the time of death, our spirit body continues into the next dimension. A ghost; on the other hand, due to trauma and such, is stuck in our physical world and needs to be released in order to go on."

Here is a story of a young lady, who reported her ghostly experience in 2007: “One year ago today, my father died. And for 6 of those months; we could hear his footsteps sliding across his bedroom floor. It sounded exactly like he used to sound when getting up to go to the bathroom, in the middle of the night. The house would get extremely hot during the night, even though we had the air conditioner running. There would be unexplainable static interference in the computer, lights and television. I also experienced shadows peeking from corners and darting out of sight when I turned to them. My mom went about her duties in the home, as though nothing abnormal was happening. I became so spooked that I slept with the light on in my bedroom, many, many nights. The last straw was when I lay asleep in my room and the over powering smell of cigar smoke went strongly up my nostrils. I awoke with a start and at that same time, felt the pressure of someone sitting on the side of my bed and saw the imprint.

My dad used to come into my room and sit in this same spot on my bed, when he was ill and wanted to talk to me. After that experience, I moved out and got my own apartment. Mom still lives in the house and I visit her sometimes but even though I have moved away, I can sometimes feel my father’s presence in my own apartment”.

Some ghosts seem to be recording their imprint on the environment where they once existed. Examples are: a dead child's laughter heard in a hallway where they once played or ghost cars that can still be heard and sometimes seen. Even though they are long gone. They are residual energies; that replay over and over again. How and why past events are recorded and replayed repetitiously is not understood.

What about those “Ghosts Messengers?”
These ghosts may be the most common of them all. These are those spirits who appear shortly after their deaths, to people who were close to them. They are aware that they are dead and have the ability to interact with the living. They will usually bring some sort of message, necessary to comfort to their loved ones, telling them not to grieve for them. It’s as though they intentionally return with their message for the purpose of helping the living cope with the death.

About “Poltergeists!”
Poltergeist haunting are the most feared because they have the greatest ability to affect our physical world. They are blamed for unexplained noises, silverware falling in the kitchen sink, wall-banging, tapping on windows, footsteps and even singing music. They take and hide our possessions; returning them later. They turn on faucets, turn lights on and off, and flush toilets. They throw things, pull people's clothing or hair and even slap and scratch the living. These spirits are classified as mean or demonic in nature.

Some ghost investigators believe that poltergeist activity is not caused by ghosts but by certain living people under stress. During a poltergeist experience some people unknowingly to them; cause physical disturbances using unknown mental powers to relieve emotional stress. The mental force allows the poltergeist activity, which unconsciously cause these physical disturbances. This is called “Psychokinesis.

Perhaps you have even seen or felt the presence of a ghost yourself. I am a believer and I know ghosts are real because I grew up in a “Real” haunted house!

Conflict Resolution: "Bullying"

2011-05-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

When we hear about bullying, the first thing that comes to mind is a child being picked on. Unfortunately it is not just children being picked on and taken advantage of.
Every moment of everyday, someone somewhere is being “Bullied”. Regardless of race, age, sexual orientation or gender; hundreds of people are bullied every day. It can take place anywhere. Whether it happens at school, in your neighborhood, at work, on the internet, at home, after school or at church; name calling, verbal & physical aggressive behavior towards another individual is wrong and must not be tolerated at any time.
Everyone remembers the playground bullies. Many adults believe bullying is part of growing up. And research shows that when adults allow bullying, it harms the victim and the bully. Many childhood bullies are most likely to be arrested for violent behavior as adults.

We cannot overlook the negative results that affect those who have been bullied. Depressions, anxiety and other difficulties, plague those who have experienced being picked on and taken advantage of. But for now; let’s focus on the children.
Teaching our children to defend themselves through aggressive behavior, is not a great long-term solution. Our children may defeat a bully but they are only reinforcing; by these actions, that violence is a great effective solution to resolving conflict. Instead, we must teach them to deal in peaceful ways with bullies that still do not tolerate bullying behavior, which will help all children learn to be effective problem solvers.

The Psychiatric Institute have study statistics that prove 47% of children who witness an act of bullying, are afraid to return to school for fear of the same thing happening to them. They may even start being a bully themselves or become friends with an aggressive child, in an effort to avoid becoming a target.
They are more likely to miss school, and tend are more susceptible to peer pressure than other children their same age.

Boys and girls partake in physical forms of bullying like punching, hitting, tripping, kicking and relational aggression such as gossiping, excluding or withdrawing friendship, in an effort to manipulate others.
But the effects of bullying don't stop there because it has been noted that even the bullies have some collateral damage. For instance; if they get away with aggressive behavior, they will only know ways to relate to other people that are negative, creating a lifetime of relationship problems for themselves.

Here is my attempt to give helpful advice in dealing with bullies at school, in the neighborhood, or at the work place utilizing conflict resolution skills.
It is important to try and figure out why the individual is choosing YOU as a target.

Determine why you have been chosen as the target; make confident attempts at reasoning with the bully regarding how immature and unreasonable it is for them to harass you.

Do not show fear and by all means; be confident! Maintain a clear focus. No one deserves to be bullied; not even the bully, for any reason.

If your attempt at reasoning has failed; it is time to alert a type of authority. Perhaps a teacher, boss, or policeman is necessary. Try and assess the circumstance as objectively as possible because it is not best to call the police because someone made fun of your hair, shirt or shoes.

Should the bullying behavior continue after you have contacted an authority; then a confrontation may be necessary. Every other effort should be made in order to avoid the final showdown because things could get out of hand. Make every effort to avoid the bully or get appropriate action from an authority to eliminate any further harassment.

If a physical confrontation does come about; you must keep focus on your surroundings, at all times. Keep your assailant in front of you at all times. Do not let them make you nervous. You must remain calm should a counter-attack may be necessary. Never be the first to strike. If you hit first; legally you or your parents will be at fault.

However, if an attack is brought against you, it is crucial to make one of the following decisions.

Realistically, you must run away or make an attempt to defend yourself; until help comes.

Should you choose to run; please alert someone nearby that someone is trying to hurt you. Get someones attention because most violent acts will not happen in a crowded public place (but remember there are exceptions to every rule). Do everything you can to get away and avoid any further conflict.

If you simply must defend yourself please remember not to leave your chin open, in case the bully hits you. Being knocked unconscious is the last thing you want to have happen.

Watch out for hook punches and being kicked. If you know some other form of self-defense it would be better to do what makes you most assured.

It is never easy for any child or adult to feel secure after being bullied. And sometimes, when people don't stand up for themselves, they wind up becoming the target of the same bullies. Everyone needs to know how to handle situations where they are being bullied. Teach our children to say "no" when they feel that they’re being bullied into doing something that they do not want to do; this teaches assertiveness. Teach them how to ask politely for things that they wants; so they don’t become a bully themselves. If our children learn how to balance what they want with the desires of other children, perhaps they will be able to better handle a bully situation.

We must teach our children to be strong; not mean or submissive. To be strong; our children learn to stand up for what they believes in but they will also be respectful.

Teach our children to be kind. Kindness helps our children to form friendships and it could prevent bullies from wanting to take advantage of them. Our children will feel safer if they know that there will always be a friend at their side.

Our children must know that they can always come to us or a teacher if there is a problem.

Make sure your child’s school is addressing the bully situation. Our children need to know that the bully won't bother them again. So, make sure that the bully receives proper discipline for their actions. If worst comes to worst, you might have to put your child into another school.

Look for school or organizations that offer an adequate stance against bullying. This behavior is less likely to happen, when schools have guidelines, consequences and supervision by adults. Anti-bullying programs can decrease school bullying by more than 50 % within a year.

Whether we like it or not; bullying is way out of hand in our schools. Bullying comes in many forms. Here are a few examples:

• Sexual bullying, making out of order sexual comments or engaging in sexual touching

• Verbal bullying, harassment, insults, aggressive behavior or written assaults.

• Physical bullying, hitting, shoving, tripping or other acts that harm another person.

• Relation aggression, withholding friendship or rejecting someone in an effort to control that person.

• Racial bullying, mocking racial traditions, spray painting racist graffiti, making racial slurs and engaging in other racist behaviors.
It would be wonderful if we could nip "Bullying" in the bud but until we find a better solution we must band together for positive results.

WHAT DO ANGELS “Really” LOOK LIKE?

2011-05-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

Angelophany - The visible or otherwise tangible manifestation of angels to human beings.

Many adults and children report having had an encounter with angels; at one time or another. Perhaps at the time of the encounter; they were not sure whether they had been assisted by a regular human or a divine messenger of God. Or maybe the thought of angelic help never crossed their mind.

There are movies, books and articles written surrounding angels. Angels are spoken of many times in religious book; the Bible is one of those books.

But whether we choose to acknowledge their presence or not; it’s been proven in certain religious or spiritual communities, that “Angels” really do exist. Think back to a time in your life or the life of someone you know; that received assistance for something or other and they just chucked it up to circumstance or someone just being nice.

For example: You lost your wallet and it had all your identification and money in it. Suddenly a lady walked up to you and kindly returned your wallet. Was that an angel guide or just coincidence?

Or perhaps it was the nice taxi driver who pulled up beside you at the curb and offered to drive you home; just after you made the discovery that your purse was missing and you didn’t even have bus fare! Was it an angel or coincidence?

What about the time you were feeling so lonely and thought no one loved you and mysteriously after many years, an old friend called you up just to remind you that they will always love you. Was it an angel or coincidence?

The eyes of a small child looked at you and smiled; as they drove pass in a car and that smile seemed to go into you deepest heart making you feels better, just at the time when you wanted to die. Was it an angel or coincidence?

And perhaps it was the stranger who walked up to you and gave you an envelope with cash in it, just when you didn’t know where to get the money to pay your rent? Was it an angel or coincidence?

Thinking back to some point in our lives; I’m sure we will uncover a time when something good happened to us, which we could not explain.

What I’m trying to say is that “Angels” come in all ages, shapes, colors, nationalities and heights. And they do good deeds to and for us.

An angel may come disguised as someone you know or an enemy, teacher, lover or stranger.

If your eyes and mind is closed; they are hard to find. But when your eyes and mind are opened and you choose to see; they are everywhere you look.

Angels have been with us since before humans ever stepped upon the earth. In many religions and faiths, they appear and for many reasons. But what is an angel?????

Many of us believe angels to be winged beings, or beings of light that appear like man or woman. They can be on anything you wish to believe.

However, I do not place angels in the importance of how I feel about God, although I am assured they do his bidding. Nor will I argue regarding what angels are or are not.

Angels are angels and without them; I would be in a pickle indeed.

Angels also have many names and make many appearances.

Many of us are familiar with these seven angels from the scriptures:

1. Michael

2. Gabriel

3. Uriel

4. Raphael

5. Israel

6. Uzziel

7. Fanuel

We have heard about them for centuries and have experienced their presence many times. So why not count your blessings from God and look for the guidance of your angels.

For we are truly blessed to have God send them to care for us!

Do We Only Use 10% Of Our Brain Capacity?

2011-04-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

Our brain is very complex. It’s where all human emotions, behaviors, experiences, memory and self-awareness spring from. This is why it’s not surprising that the brain remains a mystery.

In addition to this, mystery is that as humans we only utilize 10% of our brain. If every member of the human race could tap that other 90%; we would have the amazing ability of remembering to the twenty-thousandth decimal place or maybe even develop telekinetic powers.

Robynne Boyd wrote; “What's wrong with only exploiting a portion of our brain?

Though an alluring idea, the "10 percent myth" is so wrong it is almost laughable, says neurologist Barry Gordon at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore. Although there's no definitive culprit to pin the blame on for starting this legend, the notion has been linked to the American psychologist and author William James, who argued in The Energies of Men that "We are making use of only a small part of our possible mental and physical resources." It's also been associated with to Albert Einstein, who supposedly used it to explain his cosmic towering intellect.

The myth's durability, Gordon says, stems from people's conceptions about their own brains: they see their own shortcomings as evidence of the existence of untapped gray matter. This is a false assumption. What is correct, however, is that at certain moments in anyone's life, such as when we are simply at rest and thinking, we may be using only 10% of our brains.

"It turns out though, that we use virtually every part of the brain and that (most of) the brain is active almost all the time," Gordon adds. "Let's put it this way: the brain represents three percent of the body's weight and uses 20% of the body's energy."

The average human brain weighs about three pounds and comprises the hefty cerebrum, which is the largest portion and performs all higher cognitive functions; the cerebellum, responsible for motor functions, such as the coordination of movement and balance; and the brain stem, dedicated to involuntary functions like breathing. The majority of the energy consumed by the brain powers the rapid firing of millions of neurons communicating with each other. Scientists think it is such neuronal firing and connecting that gives rise to all of the brain's higher functions. The rest of its energy is used for controlling other activities—both unconscious activities, such as heart rate, and conscious ones, such as driving a car.”

Dr. John Henley a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. states; "Evidence would show over a day you use 100 percent of the brain. Even during sleep, areas such as the frontal cortex, which controls things like higher level thinking and self-awareness, or the somatosensory areas which help people sense their surroundings are active.”

Since this is considered to be a true statement; the simple act of making your morning coffee pouring coffee, walking to the coffeepot, picking it up, pouring the coffee into a cup and leaving space for cream or sugar; means that the occipital, parietal, motor sensory, sensory motor cortices, basal ganglia, cerebellum and frontal lobes are all activated. This also means that a slew of neuron activity happen inside our brain in, only a few seconds.

But this is not to say that if the brain were damaged, that we would not have the ability to perform daily routines. To prove this point; people have injured their brains or had parts of it removed and they still live fairly normal lives because our brain has the capacity to compensate and makes certain that what's left, takes over the activity.

Experts understand that neurons which perform similar functions tend to gather together. For example; neurons controlling the thumb movements are arranged next to neurons that control the forefinger. Therefore; when undertaking brain surgery, neurologists carefully avoid neuron clusters that are related to sight, hearing and movement which enable the brain to retain as many of its functions as possible.

But what is not understood is how those clusters of neurons from diverse regions of the brain formulate to form consciousness. And to this date; there's no evidence that only one site is used for our consciousness, which means that it is truly a collective neural effort. Another mystery is how out of all the brains cells, only 10 % are neurons and the other 90% are glial cells; which cover and support neurons but their function remains unknown.

So, it’s not that we only use 10 % of our brains capabilities but we only really understand 10% of how our brain functions. How our brain is to be interpreted differs largely from a simpler more amenable perspective or an abstruse philosophical one.

What about psychic development?

When trying to develop the brain toward a psychic directive, it must be recognized that if our minds are manipulated into novel states of consciousness, there is always the chance of spiritual deception or danger. Many well-meaning people have embarked on visualization programs geared toward physical health, psychological understanding, or spiritual advancement only to end up involved in the occult.

There are many books on visualization, that boast of how well-intentioned non-occult use of visualization, propelled people into psychic development or spirit contact.

Visualization places the mind into certain brain wave patterns that are conducive to the development of one’s psychic ability. However, research leads us to think that, it is how we view the practice of visualization. What about the visualization techniques that are practiced in education or among children? Jack Canfield

Visualization experts in practice and theory, warn of potential danger.

H. V. Guenther and leading Tibetan Buddhist guru; Cho yam Trungpa, ascertain in The

Dawn of Tantra: "Certainly practicing visualization without the proper understanding is

extremely destructive. Tantric scriptures abound with warnings about using

visualization."

Occultist J. H. Brennan, whose Astral Doorways cites visualization as an excellent doorway," also warns that certain things should never be mixed such as yoga and visualization techniques, unless the instructor knows exactly what they are doing because the do so is in danger of creating a psychosis.

As noted, occultist J.H. Brennan also states, “Many people have begun a visualization journey and converted to occultism as a result. But this behavior poses another danger of the practice because, it is documented elsewhere that occultism is hazardous to an unenlightened person physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Collectively on the whole; it is understood that a balance must be maintained between worldly activities and spiritual activities so one can inform the other.

There is however an even deeper source of reality, which does not always work directly through nature or the physical universe. This is the medium of our higher nature influence ( Over-self). This is a source of influence on events, that functions through indirect means (external nature and human environment) but works directly through (conscience and intuition) affecting intuition and various paranormal abilities.

Ordinary thought processes can be transcended under certain conditions to a greater independence of mind in which consciousness goes beyond thinking states altogether.

The mind has been compared to a mysterious weave of interwoven threads of perception, thought and memory. So is it possible that we as humans only utilize 10% of our brain power?

Check out this facebook page!

2011-04-27T12:22:00.000-07:00

Check out this facebook page!

Do All Cat Lovers Know About “Scoop Free” Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes?

2011-04-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

If you are a cat lover then you already know that cats bring happiness and affection into the lives of their owners and families everywhere. Every cat is different and has very unique personalities which make them so intriguing. Their litter box is the only drawback. Trying to keep the litter boxes clean requires extremely constant attention and that alone makes them a hassle. “Scoop Free” understands the problem and has created the “Self-Cleaning” litter box.

Standard litter boxes don’t cut it. Your house will have an unappealing smell even though you put effort into keeping the litter box clean, by the traditional methods. “Scoop Free” boxes should be used instead. Your house will always smell fresh and clean with little effort.

“Scoop Free” has created a convenient way for cat owners to keep themselves and their feline pets happy. Each litter tray in this litter box is thrown away. Which means; this is the only box to employ a system like this. This technique can be used for many weeks before they need to be tossed. The litter remaining in the box will be good for a few more weeks, after the tray is scooped out when it’s time for a change.

The litter self-cleaning technique is very reliable. Engineers from MIT were the ones who created “Scoop Free” litter boxes. The waste compartment is covered to eliminate odors so that the area always smells clean. Through lab testing; this research has allowed the development of a litter box that avoids hygiene problems and bad odors for thousands of cycles. Because many people are skeptical of these claims; there is a one year warranty on the litter box.

Superior protection over traditional litter boxes is provided for you and your kitty, by crystals that scoop poop and leaves your box clean and free of odor. Up to two cats can share one box so it is also very efficient as well. This discovery is safe and effective. You will be completely satisfied and so will your pet.

EzineArticles.com Author's Area

2011-04-07T12:14:00.001-07:00

EzineArticles.com Author's Area

Flirting Can Be Healthy??

Telegraph.co.uk writes; ”Scientist have released results of a study which concludes, that for men; flirting with a beautiful woman is healthy. It has been proven that several health giving surges of hormones are released as the man flirts.

The same is true for women. Flirting with a handsome man also releases life giving hormones into their bodies.”

Of course everyone wants to be admired and desired. But do people really understand what a “Flirt” really is?

Flirting is a playful, romantic or sexual overture by one person to another person, coyly indicating an interest in a deeper relationship with the other person and may involve verbal communication as well as body language. Body language may include flicking the hair, eye contact, brief touching, open stares. Verbal communication of interest may include vocal tone, such as pace, volume, intonation, teasing, questions, qualifying, feigned disinterest; serve to increase tension, test intention and congruity.

Flirting usually involves speaking and behaving in a way that suggests a mildly greater intimacy than the actual relationship between the parties would justify, though within the rules of social etiquette, which generally disapproves of a direct expression of sexual interest. This may be accomplished by communicating a sense of playfulness or irony. Double entendres, with one meaning more formally appropriate and another more suggestive, may be used.

Sometimes when we are feeling less attractive or life has taken a ruttish turn; a harmless flirt can be receptive and make us feel good about ourselves.

There are tell all signs when it comes to flirting. Holding a gaze slightly longer than you might ordinarily do (staring) or even a particular act such twirling their hair or blinking & winking, more often during conversation!

Flirting is the fun part of dating. It may even be a spontaneous natural act and you may not be aware that you are doing it or it can be something you do deliberately in a conscious manner.

Most of us flirt at some time and it may be harmless fun. The next question is; are we any good at it!

We also find that flirting can be very sexy and alluring. Many of us like it because it sometimes manifests into receiving lots of attention, smiling and laughter.

The right time and environment are also important because we may only want to come across as being playful, interesting and flirty but not as an undesirable.

Here is an example: “I shopped at the same grocery store for years, yet I never noticed Don’s (the manager) giving me extra attention until now.

He was always kind and nice to me but suddenly I saw something provocative in his actions. Don stared lovingly into my eyes and then he proceeded to fix the collar of my blouse. I was stunned. Although; something inside me, was very receptive to his advances.

As I was leaving the store with my groceries; I could feel his eyes on me. I turned to look at him and he raised his hands to his ears, in a gesture used when you want someone to call you. I smiled and dropped my head but I must admit it made me feel good to receive his attention.

I never called him and I never shopped at that store again…You see I am married.

Later that same night I made my husband his favorite meal and seduced him all night long.

Having a man flirt with me; who was twenty years my junior, made me feel desirable again.

Techniques used in flirting:

The eyes: eye contact is a very important part of flirting.

As mentioned above eye contact is a very tell all of a flirt is when an individual displays seductive glances or holds their gaze slightly longer than usual before looking away.

The head: flirtatious behavior is smiling, licking your lips and touching your teeth with your tongue seductively.

The body: puffing out of the chest while maintaining eye contact, using your legs crossed toward the person who is desired, open legged standing in the direction of the other person.

General behavior: sharing food from a meal, softly touching the other person’s arm, fixing the person’s clothing or hair…any excuse to touch the other person.

The voice: soft exaggerated responses demonstrating real intensity of interest, focuses solely on one person in a group or surroundings, giggling and inquisitive questions.

Just remember, if you decide to be and get the benefit of those surges of hormones to rush throughout your body; it’s suppose to be fun and make you feel alive inside. Flirting or being flirted with is fantastic for self-esteem as well…so get out there and enjoy yourself. Just please keep it clean!

The Straight Truth: Genocide Takes a Front Seat

2011-03-01T13:57:00.000-08:00

The Straight Truth: Genocide Takes a Front Seat: "(By Shirley Marie Johnson former Staff Writer of The South Street Journal News and Black Wall Street-Chicago) Chicago - There is no way to..."

The Straight Truth: Inner Harmony

2011-03-01T13:51:00.000-08:00

The Straight Truth: Inner Harmony
Everyone of us needs to spend a small amount of "Still-time." Fast-paced lifestyle causing stressful situation? Take one minute and forty seven seconds to view this video. Aren't YOU worth this small amount of time, to learn how to obtain inner harmony?

The Straight Truth: Sunday 09.12.2010 Stop The Violence March & Rally ...

2011-03-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

The Straight Truth: Sunday 09.12.2010 Stop The Violence March & Rally ...: "Sunday 09.12.2010, was a day of amazement and actual Magnificent UNITY of the masses at Roberson High School on Chicago's Southside. Moto..."

Inner Harmony

2011-02-28T14:34:00.000-08:00

Bipolar Illnesses

2011-02-27T13:17:00.000-08:00

Bipolar is an illness that causes stress and extreme mood changes. An individual or group that experiences bipolar symptoms has maniac episodes of high energy to the extreme lows of depression.

It is a psychiatric condition defined by extreme, often inappropriate and unpredictable mood swings.

These moods can occur on a spectrum ranging from debilitating depression to unbridled mania, and from a minor annoyance to lifelong disability. This disease is often difficult to diagnose, due to the complex nature of the disorder. Among the more than five million adults in America who have this disease and their "mood swings" can be extreme or frequent. These changes occur in cycles and are referred to as "episodes".

Bipolar Disorder is a disease thought to be caused by changes in the chemistry of the brain. The symptoms and severity of the condition can vary, but with the proper treatment, Bipolar symptoms can be managed. On average, people with this disease spend ten years or more seeking treatment before finally getting diagnosed. One survey found that as many as 70% of people with Bipolar Disorder are initially diagnosed with a different condition. Often, this is because people only tend to seek treatment during a depressive episode and neglect to discuss manic symptoms with their healthcare professionals.

This particular mental illness does tend to run in families, although having a family history of the condition doesn't necessarily mean a person will develop the disease.

Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help. While the causes of Bipolar Disorder are still unknown, the symptoms are thought to be triggered by an imbalance of some key chemicals in the brain.

There is nothing specifically that someone does to "get" Bipolar Disorder, nor is it anyone's fault. Bipolar Disorder is a disease like other diseases that may simply occur in certain people.

A diagnosis for a major depressive episode requires having a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities a person usually enjoys. A Mixed episode includes symptoms of both manic and depressive behavior.

Bipolar Disorders are serious conditions, and each individual's symptoms are different.

If their symptoms are not managed, friends and family may feel confused by their extreme changes in mood.

There is no cure however, there are effective approaches to help manage these symptoms. Some options may include talk therapy, group therapy, and prescription medication or any combination of these.

Bipolar Disorder is being diagnosed more and more in children, often at a young age, and in adolescents. It can be classified as ADHD or ADD. The concurrent diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol or/and Drug Addiction are closely linked. Articles and Stories in this new area are being added frequently. As with any long term illness a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder is not easy to accept or live with. Stress is not a cause of but it can initiate an episode.

Please remember that since there are many different types of mental illnesses. Instead, diagnosis is based on your family history, your personal medical history, your symptoms and when they began.

How Bipolar symptoms first appeared also may determine whether someone is correctly diagnosed from the beginning. "If their first episode is a whopping classical mania that lands them in the hospital, their typically not misdiagnosed," says Dr. Thase. "But at least half the time, depression precedes the onset of mania, especially in women and in people who have bipolar II."

In those cases, the first diagnosis is often major depressive disorder, not bipolar disorder.

In the future, a blood test that determines bipolar may be possible; until then, getting an accurate diagnosis can be so tricky that in most cases it's going to require working with a psychiatrist; preferably one who specializes in mood disorders.

by Marie Johnson

Home - Publish America Author

2011-02-27T11:39:00.000-08:00

Home - Publish America Author
I just updated my first blog after home on webs.com. The title is "I Know A Secret About Your Failures."
Stop by and check it out.
http://www.mariejohnsonauthor.webs.com

My Fear

2011-01-21T20:24:00.001-08:00

January 15, 2011

Fear can be explained in varying degrees of definitions such as dread, anxiety, horror, trepidation and panic summed up to mean many, many things but right now at this very moment it means….that I am a patient in Thorek Hospital; brought in by chest pains and other ailments. I have no idea what is going to happen to me, or if I will have to endure a third Angioplasty; or will I walk out of this nice hospital and not be carried out… I am terrified.

My feelings have nothing to do with the doctors or staff because they are excellent people have tried numerous times to put my fears at rest, I feel comfortable in their capable hands and I give them no unnecessary problems; yet there is something emotionally deeper bothering me.
For a moment after talking to my cardiologist, physician, nurses and hematologist them I sort of feel a tiny bit better, but behind that little light in the bottom of my stomach, is a pulsating, burning orb of fear.
Can I put my finger on this lingering scarisum? No it’s something lurking there ready to pounce on me as soon as my guards drop somewhat.

I feel as a small child might about something lurking under their bed ready to grab their ankles and pull them under, never to be heard from or seen again. Can we even imagine the very real feeling of anxiety that child must be experiencing.

Eight years ago, I receive two angioplasties from Thoreks Hospital expert cardiac surgeon and have been going well since that time. Of course I’ve ensured some high blood pressure but my heart has not until this time given me a clue that anything was going wrong.

I had another angioplasty on Monday January 17, 2011 and a barrage of test for my stomach, liver, bladder and throat, after that. I was so frightened that I found myself crying in fear.
I am home now and again thanking God for having his angels hug me. I don’t know what I would do if not for God’s mercy, grace and favor.

You know since I’ve been writing and blogging, I have met some very interesting and genuinely concerned people all over the world. For many years I felt alone and unloved. To all of you who are genuinely concerned for my well-being…”I Love You!”

SUBCONSCIOUSLY...I Miss You!

2011-01-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

Have you every wondered about a person or relationship from your past. Have you ever wondered why it didn't work out and ALL your other relationships fizzle as well?

It is amazing how we have the capacity to suppress certain pure-ordained realities to a point of having them affect our conscious lives. We go on about our daily routine unaware of the effect that some relationships have on the way we relate to other relationships. Sometimes we even suffer horribly in our love-life. Never once giving a conscious thought as to the reason we are having great difficulty being happy.

But no matter how long it takes...destiny will prevail and as a result of that...the past comes back to haunt usMy best friend and soul-mate has been in my shadow for 30 years. I rejected his undying love because I thought that he was not what I should have...I was self-centered. In the beginning we connected on a high spiritual level. It was so easy being with him. However, he had a wish that I just be myself and not let life influence me to the point of becoming someone else, just because my other friends wanted me to...I pulled away. At that time in my life all I cared about was appearances and he seemed too weak to be a part of my life. How utterly wrong I was.

For 30 years he pursued me and tried to give me the benefit of his loving care. I ran from him. As a result of my actions I led a terrible existence. Today I am aware that I should have listened. Every other so-called love relationship that I have had ended terribly. Especially my marriages. Disaster after disaster. I never found what was right in front of my eyes all the time. Subconsciously...I was missing him. I had been searching for the same attributes in others that I had been blessed to have in my life from day one...subconsciously I missed him.

Recently we were re-united as a result of my being a writer. I was researching people that I required to complete my life story. My conscious mind began to manifest his image and the result was a good feeling and a sense of peace when I was made to remember the best friend that I had ever had. Suddenly I had an epiphany! I really did L-O-V-E him. Just as suddenly my heart began to break into a million pieces and I wanted so desperately to call him and shower him with my new-found realization...but I did not. Instead I arranged a meeting between the two of us. I was just as giddy as a school-girl. I later learned that he was also. I wanted to know everything about his life. We laughed and cried as we got reacquainted. He also confessed that many times during our separation he had been in the shadows to back me up if I ever found myself in trouble. What an amazing man!

Now we are active friends again...some 30 years later.

When ever we are together the strong feeling of attachment is still prominent. We flirt and have fun but we never act on those deeply routed feelings that come up from time to time. He is a married man and I dare not over-step that bound.

On Christmas Day he called and wished me a Merry Christmas. I was over-joyed and began to cry. He also admitted finally that there was no earthly force that could change what he still feels in his heart of hearts for me.

I can truthfully say that I feel the same way. At first when I heard his admission I began to hate myself for this situation but it was my selfishness and lack of sensitivity that has led to this predicament. In the midst of what I was feeling about myself GOD stepped in and assured me that the reason we had been re-united was so we could have the benefit of true friendship as GOD had ordained in the first place. God always gets what God wants...no matter what.

Now we can continue through whatever time we have left as real friends and the love that my old friend carries for me is well received...this time. If I could do everything over again...I would. But knowing what I know now about life...would allow ME to make the best decision for all involved. And I would never ever have to say the words I miss you because we would spend eternity together as one!

by Shirley Marie Johnson

The Straight Truth: Marie Johnson Chicago PublishAmerica Author Talks ...

2011-01-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

The Straight Truth: Marie Johnson Chicago PublishAmerica Author Talks ...

Marie Johnson Chicago PublishAmerica Author Talks About Her Book:For Mist.

2011-01-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

No One Has The Power To Control Another Person, Unless You Give Them That Power

2011-01-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

A young lady sent this very profound message to me and I thought that perhaps my FB friends could also benefit from the wisdom of the content:

No one has the right to control anyone else but themselves ... If you think of the incidents in your personal life when you exerted your power over another human being, you will find that it was mostly because you were loosing control.

Power and control go hand in hand, and can be witnessed on every level - personal, business, political, parental, matrimonial, one can keep adding different aspects to this.
We are all susceptible to becoming victims, as we are capable of becoming the ones meting out the power and control. Why do we go down that road? How long can the euphoria of controlling someone else' life give you a buzz? What happens once you have achieved your superiority? Can you really feel you are the righteous one knowing that you have subjected someone who does not believe that they are strong enough to your will?

The universe believes that a superior attitude houses a deep inferior complex. The only way such individuals can feel good about themselves is through control ... Having said that, think of the damage one is doing to the soul .....What are the karmic possibilities? God does not punish us in his infinite understanding and love, but we will slip up one day, as we now know ...What goes round does not take eons to come around anymore, it is almost instantaneous.

The angels are asking all of us to try and do your bit towards steering clear of control and power play ... Rather than wielding the whip and upper hand, ask the divine light to step in and help. Instead of sending anger and annoyance, send love and understanding, accept that everyone is different in their attitudes and reactions; including yourself.

Almost always the need for control and power comes from a deep seated exposure to the same in our own lives.
Put yourself in another's shoes before taking any action or making a judgement.
When things seem out of your grasp ask for the abundant help around us and watch how it works!!

This Time In Our Lives Will Never Come Back This Way Again!

2011-01-03T14:26:00.000-08:00

Today is beautiful, wonderful and blessed and we must savor each moment because it will never come again exactly as it has right now.
When we meet people and change their lives and they change ours through connection, we must savor that connection because it will never happen the same again; ever.
When we face difficulties and feel as though there is no end, we must savor that moment because it will never happen just as it did; ever again.

When we lose friends, family and lovers; for whatever the reason, we must savor those moments with them and bind them in our hearts for always; because those friends, family and loves will never come again as they did the first time; ever again.

When we close our hearts because of pain we should open up and savor "THAT" moment because it will never come again exactly in the same way; ever again.
It is a certain truth that we learn from our mistakes and won't complete the same mistakes in the same way; ever again! Thank GOD!

No matter what happens in our lives or what course we take, we will experience moments that will remain in our hearts and minds forever be they good or bad.

And even though we may walk the same path in certain circumstances, those footprints we made the first time we walked can never be recaptured, no matter how hard we try; ever again.

What I am saying is this,"Love others as we love ourselves, treat others as we want to be treated, share ourselves with others unselfishly because we may never get to do that in the future and Thank God for the ability to remember and savor good, bad and indifferent experiences within our hearts because...They will never come about in the same way; ever again!

God Bless all of my FB Friends, Friends, Family and especially my Enemies because I will never ever forget any of you.

I am grateful for being able to connect, love and share myself with so many people.

And the chance to tell you all this, "Will Never Ever Come Again". So I leave you with this,"Have a wonderful, safe and blessed life" And if God willing, we will influence each others lives in 2010, 2011 and many, many, many years to come!!!!!!

Sunday 09.12.2010 Stop The Violence March & Rally Through Englewood in Chicago

2010-09-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday 09.12.2010, was a day of amazement and actual Magnificent UNITY of the masses at Roberson High School on Chicago's Southside.

MotorCycle Clubs, Social Clubs, Independent Participants, Political Figures, High School Students, College Students, CPD, Secret Service( men & women) children, teens, young adults, and MOST Prevalent was Minister Darrel Jackson of "The Liberty Baptist Church" who brought everyone together in this undaunted UNIFIED effort to March and participate in a "Peaceable" Rally against the horrible violence displayed in Chicago's Englewood area.

It was a Massive gathering of Cars, Vans, Suv's, Trucks, Bicycles, Motorcyles, Walkers, Joggers, Baby Carriages filled with people in support of this event, making this something spectacular.

Gubernatorial candidate Bill Brady and Minister Darrell Jackson opened with prayer and words of encouragement, regarding hopes of accomplishments to be obtained by this event and all active participants.

The route was west on 69th St. to Racine, north on Racine to 63rd., east on 63rd. to Lowe, south on Lowe St.; where a prayer vigil was held, led by Minister Jackson in front of "The New Englewood Terrace" Building 6425 So. Lowe, further south on Lowe to 69th St., ending back at Roberson High School.

CPD. had actually roped and car marked our route, as they stood by in case of a violent erupton. This is ONE time my hat goes off to their efforts to make us safe!

As we marched through Englewood, passersby in their vehicles or standing along the route, cheered, blew their horns, waved and chanted our slogan "Stop The Violence, We Want Peace". Hecklers were VERY few!

We were well received in our NO NONSCENSE efforts and relief could be seen on many faces of the residents of Englewood. This March was determined to get The Stop The Violence" point across.

By the time we reached Halsted St. on 69th; this March & Rally was a full Parade of many who joined the ranks as we walked by.

Of course, I was overjoyed to step out of my comfort zone (as an Advocate for Violence Free Zones) adding support to others who may not have the initiative or were unable to represent their wishes as we did.

My feet have the marks of a successful March, as does the blisters on my nieces feet (Arnetta Perry; President of Powerful People Powerful Friends SC.) But every uncomfortable moment was worth this pain.

Sunday was a day where I witnessed this quotation in play, "If YOUR NOT part of The Solution, YOU COULD be part of the Problem."

I Thank God with every ounce of my being for allowing me to give my support and efforts to a community that just wants their families to live SAFE, giving the children and young people, a chance to grow up!

God Bless Englewood and EVERY community in the world against violence!

Where I Began: New Poem from Publish America Author Marie Johnson...

2010-08-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Where I Began: New Poem from Publish America Author Marie Johnson...: "New Poem from Marie Johnson's Latest Manuscript ~ 'I Could Have Loved You.' I could have loved you...you were a wonder and beautiful spiri..."