Comfort and Support

Life with Meaning

2011-08-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

Today's reflection from my heart is about living a life that is full, meaningful and productive for others. I went to see the doctor last week and he took an extra moment just to thank me for all the work I've done with the elderly and the ill patients who do not have family. It meant a lot. I didn't even know he knew about any of those things. It's nice to know my life has meaning not only for me but for others also.

To My Best Facebook Friends

2011-08-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

I love bragging on my friends. On Facebook, I've made the kind of friends that makes you want to travel long distances just to meet and hug them once. Today, I want to sincerely thank these women for being a vital part of my life, for praying for me, for always having something encouraging on their walls:

Samantha Richards

Saundra Dalton

Lacresha Hayes

Erica Newton

Sabriena Williams

Debbie Todd

Rita Garcia

Janet Macor

Jannel Hall

I love you all and hopefully one day, I will get the meet those of you I hadn't met already.

A Great Inheritance

2011-07-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

Today's reflection is about inheritance. What are you leaving behind for your children, grandchildren and so on? I'm not speaking of money and houses. I speak of values and skills. Yesterday was the joy of my life to have my grandchildren help me make preserves. They were amazed to learn how jelly/jam is made. And I could see a light in the eyes of my granddaughter. She learned something and enjoyed herself.

When I was a child, I remember learning to cook, clean, sew, quilt and garden from my mother and my aunt. I loved every minute of it once they pulled my attention from playing. I passed most of that knowledge on to my children but they hadn't bothered to teach my grandchildren, so I decided to do it myself.

A great inheritance is more than physical possessions. Leaving behind a piece of history, however, is priceless. Leaving a piece of your passion and your drive is priceless. Don't underestimate the power of time spent doing things new together.

2 Months without Coffee

2011-06-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

It's been a solid two months and I've been without my morning and afternoon coffee. I'm sleeping better than ever and my energy level is up. My vision is clearer than before and I have much less nervousness. I'd love to hear from those who are also kicking the coffee.

Need Your Prayers

2011-06-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

I have recently stopped visiting the nursing homes here in Louisville. My health and medication sometimes make it difficult to drive or even to get out of bed. I ask for your sincere prayers because I really love spending time with the elderly and learning from them. I love visiting hospitals and bringing food to the shelter. I hate when I'm not able to keep my schedule. I believe God for healing everyday and know that He is able.

Keep Your Optimism

2011-05-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

Today's reflection is about optimism. It isn't always easy to see the brighter side of things. Sometimes, we lose hope in God and usually it is just about the time we need it most. Do not give up on God. Keep hope alive. Believe that things will get better and somehow, they will. Believe that life won't always be a sad tale, and somehow it won't.

Faith, Hope, Belief, Trust, Reliance

Pray Always

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

A person's knees says more about their faith than all the signs, bumper stickers, t-shirts and Christian books in the world. Be a person of prayer. The Bible admonishes us to pray without ceasing. Again, it tells us also that men ought to always pray. Let's take our relationship with God to a new level by simply spending more time communing with Him. You may be surprised at what you learn about the heart and character of God.

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

2011-04-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Urgent prayer needed for Jason Hughes and Natalie Martinez. They were in a car accident. Both are in critical condition. Pray also for their families. Thank you.

Kicking the Coffee

2011-04-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

Today I am sans coffee. I'm starting to realize that the caffeine is making my insomnia worse. After a couple of hours of research, I'm almost certain that caffeine after a certain hour makes it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep.

I encourage you, friends, to go lite on the coffee intake. I will keep everyone posted.

Call to Salvation

2011-04-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

Heaven is a real place, as is hell. Sometimes, because we can't perceive the spiritual world with our five senses, we nullify it and all the warnings the Bible gives us. But just because you cannot touch, taste, smell, see or hear heaven and hell does not change the fact that they exist.

God doesn't desire to punish anyone, nor send anyone into eternal damnation. In fact, it isn't His choice. It's yours! Choose Christ today. Let Him come into your heart and guide you throughout the rest of your life. You won't be sorry and I promise you, your life will be the better for it. Mine is. I'm joyful all the time, even times of loss, because I know my Savior personally.

Family Reflections

2011-04-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

Today's reflection is about family time. I know it's difficult to get all the family together when everyone is working various shifts, but the task is worth the fight.

Family meals and discussions are vital to a healthy relationship amongst the members. Sometimes, it pays to shut the television off, turn off all the electronic gadgets, including the phone, and sit down for supper with your family. Take a day out of the week and visit with one another, sincerely inquiring about daily happenings.

Our families are disconnecting and it saddens me. But we can do something about it. Even if it doesn't quite work the way you planned the first few times, keep trying. Don't give up on building a close knit family unit.

Be Kind to Your Body

2011-04-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Today's reflection is about healthy bodies. I remember when I was a young girl. I never imagined that one day I would be unable to speak. I never imagined I'd deal with debilitating diseases that make it difficult to get up and down stairs, to open jars of pickles, and fold laundry. I was carefree as it concerned my physical abilities.

Today, I hate I was not more thankful to God for something so simple as ability to move around on my own without pain. Please appreciate your body. Be kind to it because the days will come when the abuse you serve it now will show up later on.

LACRESHA HAYES - Enigma or Servant?

2011-03-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

Lacresha has been a friend to me for a very long time and while many of these questions I knew already, she surprised me again with some of her answers. I hope you enjoy!

Q. Lacresha, you're coming up on several new book releases. Could you tell us more about them?

A. Yes. This year will see DRAMA hit Amazon kindle. BLACK DAKOTA and THE SNARE OF A STRANGE WOMAN will be released to print. I believe these three will be some of my best performers yet.

Q. What's new in your life?

A. Well, of course I'm battling several chronic illnesses, one of which interferes with my ability to type some days. I've been working on completing a series, yet untitled, of books about strong women overcoming real life challenges. I'm also trying to light a fire under my husband's behind because he has a great book he's finished that needs to be released for the public's eye.

Q. How has the chronic pain you experience affected your writing speed and concentration?

A. Honestly, it has slowed the process down quite a bit. I find myself having to be more focused with very little distraction because writing during pain can be very tedious. No complaints, though. At least I am still able to write, albeit at a slower pace.

Q. What advice do you give writers/authors in this recession and troubling publishing times?

A. I tell aspiring and professional writers both to think outside the box. Don't give up hope because there are many avenues into print. The thing is to keep your goals clear. Know what you want to get out of your career and let that be your reward even when sales are low.

Q. We want to stay in touch with you. Where can you be reached?

A. My primary website is http://www.lacreshahayes.com or you can reach me on Facebook, LinkedIn, Goodreads, Bebo and Twitter. You can reach me by email at lacresha.hayes@gmail.com for speaking engagements or to arrange author appearances, or just to send me a review/feedback.

Past Experience

2011-03-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

Where you been is not the full definition of who you are or will be. You are an enormous being and it takes more than your past experiences to define you. God has to define you and show you who you're really meant to be. So many giants are living like mice. God wants your eyes to be opened once again. God loves you and I do too.

Pathway of the Righteous

2011-03-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Today, let God open your eyes so that you can see who He truly is and what He truly desires for your lives. We need to take time out with people who are suffering and dying of loneliness along the pathway of the righteous. So then the question becomes, who is the righteous? It certainly isn't the ones who kick dust in the face of the down-trodden. Once we become more like our Father, then we begin to see ourselves and others the way He sees us.

Lord, open our eyes wide and help us to see and understand!

Young Ladies

2011-03-09T08:21:00.000-08:00

Since being on Facebook, I've learned so much about our young ladies of today. So many of them are lacking fathering and they seek it in all the wrong places.

Let's please pray for our children, for our teenagers and for the adults they'll eventually become. Pray still has power!

Peace is Like...

2011-01-21T14:46:00.000-08:00

Peace is like a quiet stream. There's silence and calm though much may be going on. Peace is like being taken up into the eye of the storm. You can see destruction everywhere but you can't help but realize that you're somehow safe. Peace is like the stillness of a house in the wee hours of the morning when everyone is asleep. Yes, there are people there, but you don't hear them. You see them, but it doesn't interfere with who you are.

Seek peace and pursue it.

Life Interrupted, Thanks to the Snow

2011-01-15T09:13:00.000-08:00

With all the snow that is on the ground, I've not been able to move around much. I've not been to the library or the nursing homes and hospitals, which is a part of my normal routine. However, I have been able to cuddle up in the arms of Abba Father and let Him soothe my soul, rest my mind and enlighten every fiber of my being with His wisdom and love.

Sometimes, the world needs to slow down so God can speak and minister to our hearts. Sometimes, life interrupted is the best way to live. It's not about interruptions but what we do as we await it to be put back on track.

The Voices Have Been Silenced

2011-01-12T12:04:00.000-08:00

Most unfortunately, people are dying daily without the hope of salvation. They are dying without ever fully embracing the warm and unending love of God. They are dying without ever having lived.

In the wake of the Arizona shootings, I am stunned that more churches are not rallying to bring in souls. I am stunned that the Christian voices that once so loudly spoke out for truth are now being silenced by hectic, harmful and sinful lifestyles or by their love of money.

As people, we all make a choice daily to do something for the next woman or man, or to do nothing at all for anyone but ourselves. I choose righteous living and teaching over selfishness. I choose God's love and the opportunity to spread it. We must all make our own choices, but if you choose not to do anything, then you forfeit your right to voice your opinion.

I am crying out for bold, outspoken, righteous men and women of God to arise and come to the forefront. We, as a nation, need you. More importantly, God is calling you!

Snowed Under

2010-12-15T13:04:00.001-08:00

Just when there seemed to be a little break in this weather, we are getting more snow in this area. Please keep praying for those of us in the midwest.

His Holy Word

2010-12-05T18:05:00.000-08:00

There is nothing worse than the fear of life. We can be afraid of challenges and spend a whole life fleeing from them, or we can face our struggles full of confidence in God and His Holy word. The Bible is just as relevant today as ever.

Raw Redemption by Lacresha Hayes, Powerful Reading

2010-10-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

I gave this book to my god-daughter last week. She's been complaining of a friend who was abused and was angry at the world, including God. I couldn't help but think about the character in this book, Cheyenne, who was also angry with God and those who tried to bring religion into her life.

Ramona found me today at the nursing home and told me about what happened. Since the book wasn't packaged as a Christian book, her friend took the book and devoured it during her shift (she's a security guard). Ramona said she cried and confessed that she'd never read about a character that resembled her more than Cheyenne. So, Jess is going to church with Ramona next Sunday night after her shift.

If you don't have this book, get it! It can be a great witnessing tool and aside from that, it's a great read that isn't preachy or over the top with religious jargon.

Study Time

2010-10-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

It's time to study the Word of God for yourself. Since I've been on Facebook, I've seen so much false doctrine being propagated throughout cyberspace by people who seem to genuinely think they are right.

There is a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is destruction. Lean to God's understanding and not your own. The only way you'll be able to do this is if you are found studying the Bible and praying that the Spirit breathes fresh revelation into you.

Trust Him More

2010-09-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

Life gives you many opportunities to complain because often you don't understand way certain things are happening. Just because it doesn't feel good or you don't know why it happened, doesn't mean it won't work out for you in the end. Yes, life can work out for you if you allow it to and if you take it seriously, understanding that God is in control at all times. When you belong to Him, He will not allow anything crippling to your soul to happen. It may cripple your flesh, but flesh is meant only to die anyway. That is the vow of salvation, to die to self and live to God. So trust Him more.

No Communication

2010-09-16T06:02:00.000-07:00

It's a troubled relationship that has no communication, one that won't last. How is your relationship with God? Is it troubled by a failure to communicate? Are you like a husband and wife that speak only when necessary or out of duty rather than love? Today is as good a time as any to mend the broken places.

Are You a Christian?

2010-09-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Christians are like anyone else. They have real issues, make mistakes, struggle with natural human emotions and fail, miserably sometimes. But the story doesn't stop there. They also pray hard, love harder and seek God constantly. Are you a Christian?

They've Moved

2010-08-25T07:56:00.001-07:00

My daughter and my grand-babies have moved into their own home. It's a lovely blessing from God but I miss them terribly bad.

Today, her furniture arrived and I helped her hang photos and do some minor decorating. It is amazing how quickly your children grow up. All of mine are grown, living their own lives in a way that makes me proud, and I often ask myself now why I didn't have more children because other than being a wife, being a mother has been my greatest joy.

A Wise Man and a Wife

2010-08-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

A wise man understands the value of a wife and rather than seek sex, looks and charm, he seeks a life partner, someone who he can trust to train his children well, someone who will see after household affairs diligently, someone who will hold his hand when his days of illness come, someone who he knows will back him up in the hottest heats and the coldest colds. This is a wife and a real man seeks her out.

Dehydrated

2010-08-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Found out that I'm dehydrated. It seems to be a constant battle. Since I rarely open my mouth, it doesn't get dry like others to warn me that I need something to drink. Anyway, I'm sitting here enjoying Gatorade and Pedia-lyte. lol

Right Connections on Facebook

2010-08-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

If you are on Facebook to fellowship with other believers who can strengthen your faith and push you to higher levels, then you need to add our dear praise diva and sister, Carolyn Carroll. She's a jewel and this is my way and push her higher because God has so many great things in store for her.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Flywheel/108508495840432?v=desc#!/lilcare71?ref=ts

Christian Publisher- Lanico Media House

2010-08-09T07:38:00.000-07:00

I'm very happy to alert Christian writers of the opening of a new publisher, Lanico Media House. This publisher is ran by four of my friends: Lacresha Hayes, Lensey Hayes, Karen Tims and Melissa Anthony. I am so proud of Lacresha for getting back in the saddle after the closure of her last business due to health issues. Now she's back with two well planned and well backed businesses. Sometimes, we need a setback to set us up for what God is doing.

I'll soon do an interview with her to encourage the entrepreneurs here and also so that she can tell her story about starting over. She has a fantastic testimony that isn't fudged or phony. Stay tuned.

Fellowship with Believers

2010-08-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

While church attendance isn't a requirement to build a relationship with God, it is a necessity to stay strong in the Lord. The fellowship of saints is a place of power and love. We need those things frequently because every Christian is under constant attack and temptation from the devil.

I can't tell you what's right for you, but as often as you can fellowship with other believers, do so. God bless you all.

Supernatural Love

2010-08-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

If you only love those who love you back, then you are no better than a heathen. But as Christians, Christ sends us one step further outside of flesh and into the supernatural. He tells us to even love our enemies, forgiving them as many times as it takes, and praying for them the whole way through.

Now before you get upset, I didn't say there was anything easy about the job sometimes. But as you walk in this kind of love, your life continues to change for the better and one day you wake up and realize that God knew what He was doing all the while.

One of Those Days

2010-08-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've ever suffered more pain than to love someone and invest my time and prayers into them and then later have them walk away from God and into the dangers of secularism. It hurts, like a crushing pain. Nothing can ever prepare you for it either, but thank God I have a heart to care. Pray for me. It's one of those days.

Arguing God's Existence

2010-07-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

I meet people on Facebook frequently who want to argue with me about the existence of God. The thing is, there's nothing to argue about. I know he exists like I know I exist. Those who know the truth need not argue because the truth will keep marching on its own and without fail. The arguments come when others try to convince themselves of God's nonexistence. Fear of believing and anger with God is usually the culprit. But I want you to know, I am praying for those who do not believe because it must be one heck of a miserable life for them.

All my joy comes from the Lord!

A Special Grandson

2010-06-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

My grandson walked in and asked, "Granny, can we have a man to man talk?"

I nodded while being tickled at his terminology.

He went and got the notebook and a pen and gave it to me. Then he said, "Granny, why do you smile everyday even though you cannot talk?"

I wrote, "Because I have so much to be grateful for."

"But my teacher said it's a hard life when you lose one of your primary senses."

I wrote, "I lost all my senses the day I gave my life to God." I poked him and smiled. "I hate that you will never know the sound of my voice or hear me sing to you, but look at how much better our conversation is going with us sitting here like this. And, guess what else? I'm the only person in the family you never have to worry about cutting you off."

He laughed and hugged me. "Granny, you are super brave, like super granny. I'll call you super granny from now on."

We both laughed and I hugged him again. He walked out of the room and for the first time in a long time, I hated that I couldn't audibly tell God how much I loved and adored him for such a special family.

Breast Cancer Keeps Striking

2010-06-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have six classmates who have breast cancer. That's a lot of people suffering from the same terrible illness. Please don't let the deadly evil called breast cancer slip out of your sight. When you can, make regular donations to the Susan G. Komen fund or other breast cancer research organizations.

Why Does Bad Things Happen?

2010-05-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

My grandson asked me why does God allow bad things to happen all around the world. I had to tell him the truth and amazingly enough he took it better than most adults.

God loves us all and when he gave us dominion over the earth, it wasn't so he'd have to micromanage it. He wanted man to share dominion with him. We fell and hence sin came over the world. We gave our dominion to the devil. So really, he allows bad things to happen and God allows him to run it as he sees fit within the boundaries that protect God's children. The enemy has power but never over God. He can't even overcome a WORD from God's mouth, let alone dethrone Him.

Friends Matter- These Are Mine

2010-05-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

My life has recently been even more enriched by various beautiful women on Facebook. They all bring such joy and cheer to my heart for their own sweet personalities and unique ways of serving God.
Joyce Scarbrough, an author and great friend. Supporting others is her strongest point. She doesn't yell Jesus, Jesus, Jesus all day in words, but her actions scream of his love and mercy. She's a great mom and wife and goes out of her way to make sure her family knows she's there for them. She's like a soccer mom/house wife/cheerleader/family chef/listening ear and comforting shoulder. She shows you Jesus.
Then there's Lacresha Hayes, a name become famous both here and all over the internet. She's an adorable little chocolate bunny full of wisdom, strength and power. She has a gentleness that shines from her eyes that makes her completely lovable and enduring. I love everything about my friend and consider her like a part of my family.
Next, there is Carolyn who posts everyday for us to find Jesus in our daily living. She is always ready with a prayer and scripture. Even in her own calamities, she turns it and waits on other people. She has a Mary heart in a Martha world, and encourages the same in each of us.
Then there is Chrishawn Simpson, a light-hearted, enjoyable sweetie who seems to find humor in everything. If laughter is medicine to the bones, then she is the nurse to apply it. I love her heart because though she'll never say it, she has a sensitive, tender heart, especially towards God. She reminds me of the scripture that says a wise woman builds her house. She's a builder of the joy of the Lord. What else could be more necessary?After that comes Samantha Jamison who is a fireball for God. She is so full of praise and glory that simply reading her words ignites the purest passion in you for Christ. I love this woman of honor and integrity because many days when depression would have overtaken me, I read her posts and was moved back into a place of expectation and gratefulness.

There are so many others of whom I wish I could post like Joanna Gravley, Nichole Gibbons Osborn, Lee Ann Ward, Jennifer Jones and the rest. But I mainly want to make the point that these women mean the world to me. THANK YOU ALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!

Sober and Soundness of Mind

2010-05-13T07:45:00.000-07:00

1 Peter 1:13
Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ

Sometimes, our minds are flitting from here to there, no real rhythm or soundness of thought and no preparation for what God wants to do.

We have to be sober about who Christ is and what He's done and is doing. We have to have this Gospel carried in all seriousness. There is a time for laughter, fun and enjoyment, but not to the point where your mind comes unraveled and you become unfit for the preaching/teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and His next coming.

The Rod of God

2010-05-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

There's foolishness bound up in the heart of a child but the rod will drive it far from him.

We look at it like adults and children in the natural, but God sees that scripture as just as important to his children. Feel like you been under the rod lately? Maybe God is driving away the foolishness so that you can be a daughter or son that He is proud of, that he can show off. AMEN!

Troubled by the Word

2010-05-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

Don't let people tell you the word of God should bring peace to your spirit every time it comes forth. Jonah was not at peace about it. David was troubled by it plenty of times. Hezekiah was disturbed by it. As was Saul, Solomon, Jeremiah, Hosea, and then even Jesus had his garden prayer moment. Sometimes, the Word of God is heavy and it is troubling. We wish it was always a word of peace and prosperity, but that isn't the case.

To Mothers with Daughters and Parents in General

2010-04-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

To the mothers who have daughters:

I look at my daughter and I am filled with joy at the legacy my grandmother began. She raised my mother in church. She didn't force her, but lived a wonderful life in front of her. My mother married as a virgin. Her first husband and son died. Later, she met and married my father. He was her second and last sexual encounter. She gave him children and a full life before she died. My father never remarried. At first because no one measured up. Later because he decided it wasn't worth it. My mother was the picture of a lady of strength, character, charm and love. She was more beautiful inside than out and she was a beautiful lady, even in her older years.

She raised us to have a love for God, to really know Him. Bad things happened to us like everyone else, but my family has a legacy of following Christ and keeping ourselves chaste so that we can take pride in our bodies when we present them to Christ.

My daughter had a couple of falls (and I write this by her permission), but even she stands head and shoulders above her generation in all things and all I can do is thank God for this. She's a wonderful daughter, full of character and inner strength. She swears she gets it from me. I got it from my parents. They got it from theirs.

Mothers, watch carefully the life you live in front of your children, and especially your daughters. You can't get what you don't possess yourself. You'll eventually see you in your child. Be a woman of strength and character.

Online Dating Dangers- Facebook and Myspace

2010-04-12T07:07:00.000-07:00

There are always hidden dangers in every corner, no doubt, to the Christian because she/he has made up their minds not to live for this world. Recently, I joined Facebook and it has been a dating danger phenomenon at that place.

I've never ministered to so many confused young ladies, thinking they must find a companion or husband. And it is the Christian ladies that hurt me most. Knowing the Bible, yet they stray away to interact with men who are not at all interested in them as potential mates. They are already married. And young ladies, when a married man is on the prowl, no matter what he says, it is only to make you prey. All you can give him is sex. He's normally not going to leave home. Usually the ones who do are forced out because the wife finds out and runs him out of there. And then what? You, like a fool, will trust him? I guess you'll believe that he'll treat you better than his last wife? HOW FOOLISH! RUN AWAY BEFORE IT GETS STARTED!

I'm a single woman, widowed. I don't interact with men on Facebook on any personal level. What we have to say can be said openly, wall-to-wall or it won't be said at all. Ladies, you have no business chatting with a married man, at all, EVER. You have no business sending personal messages to a married man, at all, EVER. If there's something to say, put it on his wall or talk to his wife. Otherwise, you're setting yourself up to be prey for the devil and a toilet for a man of low values and standards. I won't take that back.

Walking Advertisements

2010-03-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

We are all walking advertisements for something. What are you advertising, young woman? Surely, you have more going for you than your outer beauty. Advertise morals, values, the fear of the Lord.

Parental Hypocrisy

2010-03-13T13:30:00.000-08:00

We should carefully consider our ways as parents. Our children are much more intelligent than we give them credit for and the worst fate a parent can ever endure is to have their child look at them as a hypocrite.

Glimmers of Hope

2010-03-03T05:44:00.000-08:00

It warms my heart when people go out of their way to be kind to someone who they have no reason to be kind to. Yesterday, a young man came by the house and was selling candy. When he realized I couldn't speak, he wrote a little note and gave me three bars for my three grandchildren that were at the house. I offered to pay but he wouldn't hear of it. Love may be waxing cold in some places, but there are still little glimmers of hope all around us.

Youngest is Learning Quickly

2010-03-01T09:41:00.000-08:00

My youngest grandchild is really amazing me with how quickly he is learning sign language and he's only 3. It's really a blessing from heaven.

My daughter is improving and her health is much better. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and emails and phones to the family. Blessings!

Ugly People

2010-02-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

We can all be as beautiful as we choose to be. It comes from the inside. On the other hand, there's nothing worse than ugly people whose insides are filled with rottenness and cruelty. They are always looking for opportunities to destroy their neighbor with their words.

No matter what you look like on the outside, none of us can afford to forget who is judging the inside. And HE has a strict standard. Even when done wrong, we should seek to never harm another. Never! Don't be ugly. Be beautiful. Be loving. Be forgiving. Be sympathetic. Be merciful.

Dedicated to Billie A. Williams (one beautiful woman), Joyce Anthony (and another), Lacresha Hayes (and another), and last but certainly not least, Deborah Warren-Whitlock, my daughter and hero!

Never Doubt It

2010-02-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

Faith is such a powerful force. I've seen it work in my life and in the life of my children. Yesterday, one of the residents of our nursing home was rushed to surgery because of a blockage in his intestines. He died on the table twice but now he is fine and way stronger than they think he should be. Glory Hallelujah! Never doubt faith!

Power Walk by Lacresha Hayes

2010-02-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

Below is the guest post from Lacresha. Please take time to read it through. I was genuinely blessed by this post. Thank you, Lacresha.

I've been saved and preaching the gospel for a little over nine years now. While it hasn't been easy to maintain my faith and hang on to my calling, I wouldn't trade a single part of my walk. I've walked this walk afraid, timid and shy. I've walked it in confusion. I've walked it through sin and temptation. I've been both on top and on bottom and at almost every level in the middle. Even so, I call my walk a power walk. Here's why.

Everything that has ever hurt me has turned out to be for my good, to empower me and others through the grace of God given to me. Every time I fell into sin, which was much more than a few times, I came through it stronger with a better understanding of God's Word. I've also had times when I denied myself to the point of tears to later see the glorious reward for self-denial. Praise God!

Many people want to be empowered, to have authority over various aspects of life, but power costs big. Sometimes, it means you have to experience turmoil so that you'll understand how to get out of it. Sometimes, it means going through pain so that you can empathize with others. I've seen things and experienced things that hurt me and damaged me, but I'm grateful to God that it was only for my making. This is my power walk.

I can boldly say I have authority over lust because I've fallen into and wallowed in it before. I know what it looks like, smells like, feels like and how hard it is to get free. I can boldly say that I have authority over sickness because I've been to the point of death many times but God has shown me that healing is real through my illnesses. What I went through may have hurt and maybe even embarrassed me, but the end result was power. That's beautiful in and of itself because some people suffer worse than I did but came out the other end with nothing to show for it. I don't want that to ever be me and the only way to ensure that is to walk with God.

I encourage you all to walk with God, no matter where that walk may take you. Keep ahold of His hand, even if you are in the middle of sin or trials or temptation. No matter how it feels or how it looks, keep praying and keep believing God, keep confessing that you'll come out better and empowered and you will. Protect your power walk and remember that all the suffering is worth the end result!

For more information about Lacresha or her books, please visit her website at http://lacreshatheauthor.weebly.com or her blog at http://learntofeelpretty.blogspot.com. All her books are available at Amazon.com or Powells.com

Lacresha Hayes, Inspirational Interview

2010-02-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

In the past year, I've seen a very sincere and powerful woman blossom from one tragedy after another. She has been such an inspiration to so many that I'm not sure anything I can say will ever do her justice. The sweetness of her personality shines through online and offline. This interview isn't about her books, or her businesses, or her anything else you'll find all over the internet about her. This interview is about her heart so that we too may find the same comfort and support she has.

1. Lacresha, tell me a little bit about your private life. What is a day in the life of Lacresha?

Honestly, Vicky, I probably start my day like everyone else who is a Christian. Sometimes I pray and other times I forget and have to do it on the go. I often struggle to stay grounded in prayer but I have friends who help me to focus on the important things. I'm always busy and have been known to bite off more than I can chew, but God somehow brings me through it all every time. For that I cannot complain.

2. What are your biggest fears? Biggest struggles?

That's a good question. I suppose my biggest fear is being rejected by God. I don't want to miss Him or embarrass Him or disappoint Him. He's the only father I've ever known and so my shortcomings are huge in my eyes because some part of me always wonders how He feels about what I'm doing, saying, thinking. That ties into my biggest struggle. I have a hard time forgiving myself when I slip away from God.

3. What one thing do you wish everyone knew about you?

I'm not really sure. I pretty much live my life as an open book. I have very few secrets left, if any. I seem so bold to others about how I write about my life and the lessons I've learned, but I'm always terrified of putting all my problems out in the open like that. I've just learned to do it afraid and to focus on who I'm helping rather than those who don't like it.

4. Have you suffered a lot of setbacks and opposition that made you feel like quitting? How did you handle it?

I have dealt with and continue to deal with opposition and setbacks. I normally pray and talk to a friend or my spouse. I try to keep my vision before me so that I remember what it's for. I try to be quick to admit when I'm wrong and rectify the bad things in my life. It isn't always easy, but that's the only thing I can do. Quitting won't help. I tried that before and it didn't work for me.

5. What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I'd have to say writing and having books on the market that actually make a difference in the lives of others.

6. What are your goals over the next year or two? What can we look forward to?

I have at least 10 more books that you'll have the pleasure of reading over the next year. I hope that I'll be poised for more community development projects so that I can provide services to those most in need. Who knows? As long as I'm helping others, glorifying God and prospering my family, I'm okay with it.

7. Lastly, the news has been spreading like wildfire about your movie deal for The Rape of Innocence: Taking Captivity Captive. Tell us about that.

Rape was my first nationally published book. It details my life as an abuse victim and how I got beyond the violence, sex, and depression. The movie is going to focus more on the aspect of how abuse led to promiscuity and how I eventually got beyond all the pain to live a victorious life. I hadn't heard the final word yet, but while they plan to keep to the truth of how God impacted my life, they are going to tone down the religious aspects of the book. The rewrite of the book that comes out this year will not include much of what is in this version. So, I'm telling people to go on and order this version why it is available.

8. Give us links and contact information.

I have an author website at http://lacreshatheauthor.weebly.com and a women's empowerment blog at http://learntofeelpretty.blogspot.com. I also blog at http://therapeofinnocence.blogspot.com and http://alwaysthebridebook.blogspot.com. You can email me at lacresha.hayes@gmail.com.
Facebook- www.facebook.com/lacreshahayes
Twitter- www.twitter.com/lacreshahayes
Goodreads- www.goodreads.com/lacreshahayes
Blogtalk Radio- www.blogtalkradio.com/lacreshahayes

Lacresha Hayes Visiting Us Again

2010-02-01T09:21:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce that Lacresha Hayes will be featured here on my blog on February 4th and 5th. Don't miss it. She's always such a blessing when she shows up and is a powerful speaker/writer.

Spread the word for me.

A Recommendation

2010-01-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

For those over the age of 40 like myself, you may consider visiting Marvin Wilson's site daily. It is titled The Old Silly's Free Spirit Blog and it is a winner. I love it!

Serving God, Even with a Disability

2010-01-20T07:15:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I am mute. Like anyone with a major disability, there are times when I want to cry and feel sorry for myself because I miss so many things. There is nothing on earth like words, especially heartfelt ones. I often wish I could say so much to my children, but my emails, notes, letters will have to do.

I've met many disabled Christians and I have to speak for us all - we are happily serving God, disabilities and all, and we don't need pity or even sympathy. We only need be reminded that no matter how bad things are, they could be worse. Praise God that I can hear and see and walk.

Surprise Surprise

2010-01-14T07:24:00.000-08:00

I had the surpise of my life. The last few days I've stayed in because I've been having some back spasms. My daughter thinks it is because of all the time I spend in front of the computer.

Yesterday, my children showed up with a new computer, a wonderfully expensive chair for posture and a better desk. I couldn't believe it! I know they couldn't afford to do all that, but they did it for me. I feel like the most blessed woman in the world to have such thoughtful and sacrificing children. I adore my new chair too.

What's New?

2010-01-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

It's a new year and for some it holds the hope of new things. What's new in your life? Have you quit smoking? Quit drinking? Quit lying? Started dieting? Started reading your Bible? Left bad influences behind? Forgiven old grudges? Started up new relationships?

This is the time when people try to instantly change things in their lives, but change isn't instant. It's a process. What's new for me? New mercies that come every morning for another chance to please God. Didn't make any resolutions, but did decide that this year I'd be more dedicated to the local nursing home to help the elderly with supplying things they often lack who don't have family.

It's good to improve you, but why not make this year about someone else? What's new for you? Will you learn to be selfless?

Christmas Love at Lake Tahoe

2009-12-09T18:22:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was introduced to the work of Lena Nelson Dooley and am blown away that none of the ladies in the book club had ever mentioned her. She's a fabulous romance author with Christian themes throughout.

I have a copy of Christmas Love at Lake Tahoe and plan to dig in as soon as I finish quilting.

Yuletide Season

2009-11-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

I get such a joy from seeing my grandchildren open their gifts on Christmas. My tree is fuller than usual because I have one extra grand-daughter this year. I am so grateful for that. All of them are normal, healthy and well-adjusted. My children are great too.

This year, I decided to show God how much I appreciate the gift of his son and started knitting Jesus quilts last month which is why I didn't blog much. I have two completed so far and plan to finish one more before Christmas for the residents of our nursing home. Everytime I look at them, my heart is joyful that I can give to someone else. What are you doing for others this year?

Another Awesome Story

2009-11-06T18:19:00.000-08:00

My friendship with Lacresha Hayes has been well established. She's such an inspiration to others and does so much to enrich lives around her. I don't know how she juggles it all.

Last week, she sent me a copy of her book, Raw Redemption. I didn't even know it had been really released yet, so I was shocked to get a copy. I read the book and was blown away. I love her nonfiction, but I think she has a gift as a fiction writer. And often, fiction is less invasive and so people can get what they want from the story. I could really understand the heroine in this story and I got the point. Wish it had been longer and hopefully, she'll let Cheyenne become a regular in her stories. Good work.

Comfort in Correction

2009-10-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

The Bible is hard for some to get into because they don't like to feel corrected. They only want to hear what they want to hear.

As a girl, we were spanked regularly for disobeying or disrespecting our elders. I learned that correction is a form of showing love and concern. A person who corrects you loves you enough to see you be a better person. Same as it goes with God.

I am reading through Job right now and plan to read through it three straight times until I understand the fullness of God's correction of Job. There's a lot of correction is Hebrews too, which will be my next book to tackle.

Scriptures to Meditate Upon

2009-08-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

Erica gave me a list of scriptures she'd been meditating upon for the past few weeks. I've been using them lately too. Maybe they'll help you too. Pass them on.

Psalm 1

Proverbs 3

1 Corinthians 13

Colossians 2

1 Peter 3

Going Green

2009-08-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

The children of this generation are much more intelligent than we used to be. My seven year old granddaughter is now "going green" and has started recycling anything and everything that can be recycled. I'm very proud. She asked me to do a series of blog posts about how important it is to recycle paper and medals, and to preserve water usage.

I hope that some of you reading this will be encouraged by her journey and begin your own green journey. Lord knows we are responsible for this planet and how we use its resources.

Your Support System

2009-08-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

Do you have a support system?

In these times, being a part of a local church can be the best thing in the world. I'm not really one for those large churches where the pastor doesn't know your name, but for smaller family oriented churches. Those churches can be your lifeblood when you're ill or down in the dumps. The pastor and ministers come by and check on you, pray with you and often those churches have funds available to the needy in the church and community.

Other support systems include our families. Families have problems sometimes but they are still family. We need to understand that and learn to love our family past petty issues. Be there for one another and provide support when needed. My family is rather large because my mother had 4 sisters and 5 brothers. They all had at least two children. I make it a habit to email or send cards to family when I can. I stay in touch so they'll know I'm here if they need me.

Develop a support system because the time is near when you'll need one.

The Big Healthcare Issue

2009-07-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

I sure wish some of our lawmakers had common sense. They get so tied down with innuendo that they don't actually think. People need affordable healthcare. We have a severe deficit. The bailouts didn't help with that.

First of all, there needs to be some kind of cap on the fees charged for both prescription medications and medically necessary procedures. Second of all, the government needs to put some kind of cap on the fees charged for health insurance for those over a certain age. Third, there needs to be a credit given to small and medium sized businesses who are willing to provide healthcare coverage for their employees. Fourth, the medicaid program can be expanded to include more people, while putting a time restraint on it for young folks who keep having babies out of wedlock. Require them to get a job, or job training or provide credits for them if they go back to school so they can be a part of the solution and not the problem. Lastly, they don't need to cut into the Medicare program anymore. Elderly people were promised coverage and they worked hard. It isn't fair to squelch on the deal now.

Just think, people

Just Finished a Great Book

2009-05-20T15:08:00.000-07:00

I had never heard of author, Joyce Scarbrough, until recently when Debbie told me about her. As a gift, she sent me a copy of Different Roads and I loved it. I absolutely enjoyed the book from start to finish. In fact, usually a book over 200 pages takes me a little while to read, but I read this whole book in two days flat.

If you get a chance, grab this book. There are hidden revelations in it that will actually make you think about your own life, but it's entertaining.

Great Friends Like Mine

2009-05-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

Last week while in the hospital, I was surprised to have friends of mine all come up to visit together and bring cards so that we could all play bridge. I had more fun than I've had in a long time. Thank you for coming, Nancy, Anne, Donna and Patricia. I love you all more than I can ever express.

Pray for Me

2009-04-08T06:55:00.000-07:00

As all of you know by now, I'm still unable to speak, though I do believe in healings. If God does do it, I'll be happy to hear my own voice again.

Today, I've been feeling ill. I've been vomiting and believe I have some kind of viral infection. Asking for your prayers

Finding Comfort Now

2009-04-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

I'm so thankful to have a new program that puts the scriptures at my fingertips since I spend time online everyday. I find my comfort in scriptures. I look at the state of our communities and I'm alarmed within myself. When I was growing up, we always said yes or no ma'am/sir. We were respectful of authorities, even the most rebellious of us. The big problems were few and far enough between that major issues were talked about for months. Now, major problems come hourly and news is only news for seconds.

Look to the scriptures for your comfort because all these things were written aforetime.

Watching a Catastrophic Event

2009-03-09T07:05:00.000-07:00

Barack Obama, not that he's a terrible person and that John McCain is a saint, is going to be trouble. Already, he is unstable with what he plans to do. I think the idea of a black president is lovely, but more than color, we need qualified individuals in the White House. We have to pay for every decision we make though and this is one we'll pay for.

Don't Be Fooled by Barack Obama

2009-02-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

I hope that none of you are fooled by the recent developments of our new president. Now, I'm not prejudice, but I really don't like that man much. He flip flops on issues and talks about things like he knows. He's made many mistakes, which is to be expected, but that's not why I don't care for him. I don't like people who cave in to public opinion. I want a president with his own opinions and who isn't afraid to express them, even if it loses him a popularity contest.

Elder Care

2009-02-09T11:19:00.000-08:00

Pray for those old people in your local nursing homes. We just had an issue come up at our local nursing facility. People can be cruel, but even when you age, you're still a person with emotions. Let's pray for them everyday.

Be Still and Know

2009-01-08T03:08:00.000-08:00

Be still and know that God is God.
Be still and know that He lives.
Be still and know that He loves and He cares.
Be still and know that He'll fight your battles for you.
He is able to do more than you've ever imagined.
Just be still.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T07:07:00.000-08:00

Happy new year to everyone. I know I've not been posting as frequently, but my body hasn't been well. However, I thank God for giving me one more year. I thank him that I was able to be home with my family on this wonderful day.

Nasty Hearts in the Church

2008-11-21T14:49:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I communicate all the time. Her husband is now in theology school. She often goes over his lessons and books with him. So, they're both getting the same education for one price. Anyway, this week they are talking about having filthy hearts.

Everyone knows that you'll find the majority of your hypocrisy from church-goers. Many won't come to church for that very reason. With one mouth they teach forgiveness. With a double-sided snake-like tongue, they then pronounce judgment when they themselves are hurt. With one side of their mouths, they speak of God's love. In their hearts, they are full of hatred. They can tell you what you should be doing, but they themselves don't do it. This shouldn't be so, and it hasn't always been as bad as it is now.

After reading the material my daughter emailed to me, I fell on my knees and asked God to heal HIS people. Make us one way. No more teaching it the right way, but living it the wrong way. I repented and asked God to forgive us for being the most stiff-necked, hard-hearted, unforgiving, unmerciful, and unkind people in the world. I repented for us all because we have nasty hearts while sitting in pews. I don't want to be that way anymore. I ask each of you to repent also. Now's the time, right before we enjoy these wonderful Thanksgiving dinners. Let's add mercy for things we're thankful for. We've all had to have it. Now try giving it.

Full of Redemption

2008-11-15T18:44:00.000-08:00

Last week, I enjoyed sitting down with my friend, Mary. We've been friends since grade school. She moved away for a very long time, but now she's back in our hometown.

Over coffee, she told me about some of the things that has befallen her. She grew up in church, but then fell away for a brief season. She got into an adulterous relationship that cost her a lot and began using drugs. I look at her now and you would never be able to tell it by looking. She has a program that she runs now. It teaches people at her church how to love God and love His people. It teaches them how to never judge a person while they are down. She talks about all the people who put her down while she was low already. Now, she has everything she could want, but most importantly, she's full of God's redemptive power.

Learn Something New

2008-10-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

I'm past the age of 60 and everyday I learn something new. Today, one of my online daughters, Erica, did something for me that blew me away. She and her husband came down to visit me and she set my computer up so that I can hear my words as I type them since I can't speak. Computers are great tools.

Today, I'm in the kitchen working on a new recipe. I think that we stop living when we stop learning.

Sweet Changes

2008-10-11T13:13:00.000-07:00

Changes are sweet, though they can be challenging. It's not always easy to see something you're comfortable with change. When you finally get one thing down, by golly if it don't go change on you. At my age, I've learned that the one thing worst than change is things staying the same.

By in the 60's, things were morally better than today, though we thought surely the world was going to hell in a hand-basket even then. Now, I wish for those days back, but there were some great things that happened between those years. With every change, there is a pro and con. Our jobs is to make sure to take advantage of the good changes and reject the bad ones. That's the job of a voting society.

Change, sweet change!

Lensey and Lacresha Hayes are Here with their Book, Truth and Intimacy

2008-10-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

Today, my god-daughter and her husband are here to promote their book and to talk about marriage. I've been following their tour and have learned something even though I've been married as long as they've been alive. Enjoy the interview and leave comments. One person will get a $50 Walmart gift card.

V.W. ~ Lacresha, I've been knowing you for some months and I'm blessed to be the President of your fan club. Tell us about this book.

Lac ~ I'm blessed to have you as the President. You do a great job. This book is full of tidbits and powerful truth about marriage. It is a marriage-building tool with scripture, real life stories, personal experiences, couple exercises, and much more. There's not another book on the market with as much variety as ours.

V.W. ~ Lensey, tell us about your experience writing a book with your wife, who is undoubtedly very prolific.

Len ~ It was tough because she was always pushing me, but it was thrilling because we wrote from two separate computers, but at the end of the day, we always agreed. It was seamless blending of perspectives. It was like we sat beside each other the whole time when we really didn't. I love working with my wife. She has great work ethic. She is a motivation machine.

V.W. ~ Lensey, what problems did you guys encounter while writing?

Len ~ We went through a period when my brain froze and my wife was ready to strangle me. She was constantly pressuring me to write and the more she pushed the more idle I was. I had to take a couple weeks away from the book to be refreshed.

V.W. ~ Lacresha, what piece of advice do you have for business women who are also mothers and wives?

Lac ~ Get your priorities together. It's so easy to get off balance when you wear a lot of hats. If you can imagine a comedy show where someone is trying to do five roles by themselves. Confusion happens from time to time. You might forget to take off the mom hat while dealing with your husband, or the business hat when dealing with your child. Don't be so hard on yourself. When this happens, it is simply time to prioritize. You have to do it and redo it and redo it to keep yourself together while you switch from one role to the next and the next.

V.W. ~ Lensey, Lacresha says you're the romantic soul in the relationship. Tell us the challenges you face trying to be romantic with someone who is so busy.

Len ~ Finding time is the biggest challenge. We have to first find time to be romantic and then hope she has the energy when that time comes. I have to discern her moods and anticipate her needs. I try not to rush right in for the kill. Rather, I try to minister to her needs first. Let her unwind, etc. We're both busy, but I refuse to work after work hours if I can help it. She's known to go 18-22 hours straight. So, I have to make room for her schedule. However, if it has been a long while, I'll just tell her, "Hey, you got a husband who needs you now. Everybody else is going to have to wait." LOL!

V.W. ~ Lacresha, do you feel you are a good wife to your husband in regards to your schedule and all else that you do? I'm not low-blowing you, but want to get down to some truth.

Lac ~ Yep, I was unprepared for this question. Honestly, sometimes I feel that you can save the world or save your marriage. I don't believe that my marriage will stay healthy if I'm ALWAYS as busy as now. We have an agreement, but I also watch for signs of loneliness in my husband. I watch for signs that he wants me or needs me or misses me. I don't want to occupy the same house, but not the same heart, if you know what I mean. So, I believe that I've improved tremendously since writing this book, but I know too that no marriage can survive if you don't plan time to do nothing but build it.

I loved Marabel Morgan and her book, The Total Woman. It inspired me and helped me get to where I am now, but her marriage ended. She saved many marriages, but failed at her own because she could either teach it or do it. It comes a time when you have to take a break from the world. They'll always be there needing some help. Family first and then everyone else. It may sound horribly selfish, but it does me no good to help Susan, Sally, Shirley and Samantha if I end up in divorce court. I'm working on improving all the time.

V.W. ~ Lensey, close us out with some good godly and manly wisdom.

Len ~ I tell men to understand that roles may shift in nearly everything, but he'll always be the husband. Leading is not about standing out front. It is through prayer that men should lead. Men should live godly lives before their wives and children. We aren't to try to control our family, but to give them guidance. To do that, they must see something in us worth following or listening to. I try to keep my life pure as possible when it comes to the things men normally fall into. I don't befriend other women. I don't spend any time alone with women. If a woman needs counsel, my wife or some others are there at all times. I try to show her that I'm in this with everything in me. That is a man's job FIRST! You be dedicated and faithful. You be true to God and everything else will fall in place.

For those who enjoyed this interview, please use the info below contact the couple. I urge all married couples to go purchase this book today. You won't regret it!

Get it at either of these places:
Truth and Intimacy: A Couple's Journal blog - http://truthandintimacy.blogspot.com
Living Waters store - http://store.livingwaterspc.com

Contact Lacresha Hayes at preacha1975@yahoo.com and Lensey Hayes at lenseyh@yahoo.com

Mute No More

2008-09-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

My son-in-law gave me a beautiful pillow today. It said

MUTE NO MORE

HEAR ME ROAR

I loved it. It gave me a good silent chuckle. LOL! I thought it was a great play on words. Who says you can't have humor in your plight? I do. Hear me roar!

I Romanced the Stone by Marvin Wilson

2008-09-09T04:10:00.000-07:00

A friend told me about this book and I purchased it for my daughter. I just believe this book is going to bring some changes in her life. She had a drug problem for nearly two years, but she's been clean for almost eight years. She still hasn't forgiven herself. So, I am reading it now before handing it on to her.

Here's My Take

2008-09-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

It is an election year and I can't get online without seeing something negative about the candidates. Truth be told, they both have weaknesses and strengths. They are both incomplete packages, but McCain is much closer to complete with Palin than Obama is with Biden, though Biden is a wonderful man. I've met him and he's great.

Now, when it comes to politics, I'd love to see us learn to require total honesty from our candidates. We need to stand against this lying spirit and make them be honest or forfeit our votes.

Family Gives Great Comfort

2008-09-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

Let the love of your family comfort you. I have a friend who couldn't have children. Now in her old age, she's alone. Her husband has been dead for nearly 12 years. She has no children or grandchildren to check on her and see to her needs.

I often send my children by her home to make sure she's okay. When I can get out, I go by there since she's only a few houses down. My husband don't let me out of the house much because I'm mute. He tries to go everywhere with me. But, his over-protective attitude brings me comfort. I know he loves and supports me. For that, I'm grateful to God.

Positive Confessions

2008-08-22T08:19:00.000-07:00

I heard a young fellow tell his lady friend that he would be like fine wine and get better with age. It was a delightful thing for him to say. I remember saying the same things when I was his age.

Let's remember the power of positive confessions, even when they seem unrealistic.

Interview with Joe Key, Author of "The Right Man"

2008-08-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of finishing the book, The Right Man, just last night. I was pleasantly surprised by the crispness of the storyline. I loved the book and plan to do a review soon. However, I have something better for you. I have an interview with the author himself- JOE KEY!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1. Hello Joe. We're happy to have you on the blog today. Please, tell us more about yourself.

I have 15 years of experience in mental health as a counselor. In addition to working in the area of mental health counseling, I have has also worked in the area of Addictive Disorders. As a private practitioner and Licensed Professional Counselor, I have worked with individuals and families treating a variety of problems.

I am 61 years old and have been married to Sandra Key for 34 years and have four children. I was born in Columbia, Louisiana and grew up in Kentucky. I graduated Owensboro, Kentucky High School and graduated from, what was then, Northeast Louisiana University in Monroe, Louisiana, with a Masters in counseling. I also obtained my undergraduate degree at NLU. I began writing, as a lark, in 1998 and have since written 77 novels and a couple of short stories.

2. What inspired you to become a writer?

As I said, it all began as a lark – mostly in answer to a dare by my father. Soon enough, I came to realize I kind of liked it.

3. Tell us more about your sensational novel, The Right Man.

The novel is in the fantasy genre, and involves a man who stands before a group of people and declares that there is no Devil. Later on, he meets the Devil – in person. It traces his metamorphosis from an atheist to an ardent believer.

4. Do you have any other works in the making?

I have completed many other works, but I am not actively writing now.

5. As an author, what messages have you put in your writings?

I have always been fascinated by the conflict between good and evil – and feel that the triumph of Christianity is all there is. My writings reflect an inherent respect for truth and the value of plain speaking.

6. Tell our readers something they would not otherwise know about you.

Since your readers know very little about me to begin with, almost anything I tell you is something they probably didn’t know. The only thing interesting about me is that I can speak several languages.

7. Please, give us contact information for you and purchasing information for your book.

The Right Man can be purchased online at Living Waters Publishing Company, http://store.livingwaterspc.com or at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and Borders

Joe, we appreciate your stop by our blog. I look forward to speaking with you again when your new books come out.

Sad Days Happen? Really?

2008-08-12T19:09:00.001-07:00

Sad days happen to everyone: the rich and poor and in between, the cute and ugly and the unspectacular faces. Single people get lonely. Married people feel smothered. Rich people want a real friend. Poor people need money. Sometimes, we are sad because of the weather. Then there are just those days when sadness happens for no apparent reason. But...

I met a woman yesterday, Eufreda was her name. She said that she's not had a single sad day in over 10 years. TEN YEARS!!!! Who doesn't want her secret? I asked. The answer cut my heart into pieces. She simply said, "I got saved and have been full of joy ever since."

After further conversation I discovered something. It wasn't that she didn't wake up on some days and feel sad. It was that she made a conscious choice every single day to not walk according to her feelings, but according to the truth of God's Word. This woman told me that she makes a choice when tears fall from her eyes with or without reason. Her choices were to lose that day to her emotions, or to decide to make the best of day, controlling her feelings with fact.

How many days have I lost because I decided to feel without any management? How many have you lost? Like Eufreda, we can choose not to lose a whole day to emotions. She said she's had sad moments, but never a sad day. Let us learn...

Hope Found in Book, "The Rape of Innocence" by Lacresha Hayes

2008-08-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Not very long ago, I started the Lacresha Hayes Fan Club because of the message in her books and articles. Not once have I been disappointed with the effects of the book on readers. Recently, however, the book has taken on a new life of its own. I've been receiving tens and twenties of emails weekly about joining the fan club and meeting Lacresha personally. I even received some testimonies that touched my heart.

This book, The Rape of Innocence, has touched many hundreds of women. It has hope and strength by the tons. Lacresha's gentle approach for victims of all kinds of abuse is priceless. She deals with the hidden areas of battered and sexually abused women, and molested and abandoned children. None of those things are easy subjects to manuever through. But this woman does it with skill and care. She lovingly gives the reader permission that many wait on to hurt, to cry, to be angry, to feel betrayed, to feel anything period. This is what makes her a real hero. She cares!

Lacresha has been giving her books to various women and children shelters across the United States. No need to say, this is very expensive, but most of the people who need this book most cannot afford it. So, we're asking for those who can to help us by purchasing your copy. A portion of all proceeds go toward those that are given away. This is where everyone can play a major role in helping those that much of society has forgotten about.

You can get your autographed copy today at http://store.livingwaterspc.com or visit your local bookstore and order it!

Chatting it up with Sabriena Williams

2008-08-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to interview Sabriena Williams just recently. I enjoyed every bit of it. Now, you can learn more about this fascinating woman.
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Me: Hello Sabriena. I'm happy to be interviewing you. Could you tell us more about yourself?

S.W: Hello, Ms. Warren and thank you for this invitation to share. My name is Sabriena Ford-Williams . I am a native of Gainesville, FL. I am an author of two published books, An Inspirational Touch: Embracing the Touch from God, published in 2006, and Wait on the Lord, I say Wait, soon to be released.

Upcoming releases are Poetic Praises, a collection of poetry, short stories and informational pearls; a 2009 calendar titled It's A New Season. Aside from writing books, I am a passionate poet, songwriter, playwright and aspiring Christian gospel play actress. I am the proud parent of two wonderful teenagers, Ja'kya Romea (17) and Je'rod Harvey (14). I have been writing short stories, poetry and plays since grade school. My inspiration to write is to reach a broad audience of believers and non-believers. My prayer is after someone has read my publications, they will be inspired to live their life to the fullest.

Me: Tell us about your latest book.

S.W: Wait on the Lord, I say Wait is a book about a young woman (Shavon) who is struggling with loneliness and petitions God to send her a Christian husband. While patiently waiting for her husband, she is faced with unexpected family issues, chaotic church drama, challenging career demands, and an unsettled spirit. This book will evoke a hearty laugh, move you to tears and then celebration, all the while helping you to evaluate your relationship with God and others. The characters in the book are people everyone can relate to. Everyone will have either a ghetto friend, a holier than thou church member, an overprotective parent, or a best friend who cancels a girlfriend outing. Wait on the Lord , I Say Wait is a sure read for all.

Me: What advice can a Christian woman pull from your book?
S.W: A Christian woman who has positioned herself to wait on the Lord for a husband can surely relate to this book. As most of us know, singleness is suppose to be a time when a woman devotes herself to spending time with God through fellowship, developing a covenant with God and ministry work; but after the church doors are closed and all her family and friends are gone, the single woman must go home alone. For some single women, the spirit of loneliness will try to suffocate her desire to wait. If the woman is not careful, she will allow the enemy to steal her vision of ever being married.

Me: Is there anything you wrote in specifically for me?
S.W: There is no specific message to the male population; however, men can relate to the book because it will show them the other side of women who sincerely want to be a wife. Men will see the sincerity of a woman's relationship with God and others.

Me: Share one thing that brings you comfort when you feel down.
S.W: One thing that brings me comfort when I'm down is to reflect on my past accomplishments. I often reflect on my graduation from college, with honors. I graduated from college while working one full time job, a part-time, being a full-time mother and going through a very emotional divorce from a man I loved for over 18 years. I feel if God helped me through that valley, He will exalt me to a mountain. Hallelujah!

Me: Has writing been a source of comfort and support for you? How?
S.W: Writing for me is very therapeutic. Writing helps me express my inner creative desires. Writing also allows me the opportunity to approach my biggest fears, dream my wildest dreams, and have unshakable faith in the promises of God.

Me: Give the audience a little piece of your heart.
S.W: From my heart, I would like to say to my established and new reading audience that I am very blessed to have you in my corner of faith. I realize that for me to share my gift that God has given me, I must be inspired by God to write. The messages He give to me is for His children to read. I ask for continuous prayers during my faithful walk with God. Purchase my books. Email friends about this blog. I love positive responses from positive people. Please email me any comments you may have at aninspirationaltouch@yahoo.com

Me: Give us contact and purchasing information:
S.W: Sabriena Ford-Williams
PO BOX 5973
Gainesville, Fl 32627
Email: aninspirationaltouch@yahoo.com or Sabriena_williams@yahoo.com
Website: http://waitonthelord-isaywait.weebly.com
Book Prices: An Inspirational Touch: Embracing the Touch from God - $10.00 (This book can be purchased via email request- allow 3-7 days for delivery
Wait on the Lord, I Say Wait - visit http://store.livingwaterpc.com - $14.95

Donna Shepherd, Christian and Children's Author

2008-07-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

Donna Shepherd is a very talented inspirational and children's author. Recently, her latest publisher, Living Waters Publishing Company, has been making a huge deal of her new release, Dotty's Topsy Tale.

I did a bit of research, visited her website and blogs, and asked around a bit. Everything I heard about her was wonderful. She's made many friends because of her integrity and caring. To learn more about Donna Shepherd, visit her site at http://www.donnajshepherd.com/ and http://devotionalsbydonna.blogspot.com and http://donnashepherd.wordpress.com. To learn more about DOTTYMANIA, the major marketing campaign launched by Living Waters, visit the publisher's blog at http://livingwaterspublishing.blogspot.com

"Dare to Dream" by Carol Jones book review

2008-07-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

Recently, I had the pleasure of reviewing a book by Carol Jones. I don't read and review just any kind of book. I like books that lead somewhere, that teach something, that encourage the soul.

Dare to Dream is the kind of book I look for and fill my shelves with. In this book, there is encouragement for sickness, for depression, for fear, for pain, and for disappointment. In this book, there is answers for those who feel alone, rejected, forsaken. If you've ever been hurt and felt alone, this book is one of the richest sources of inspiration I've read recently.

The book is Carol Jones' first work, but I pray sincerely that it won't be her last. I hope to be able to learn much more from this woman who writes life so well!

Get it now at http://store.livingwaterspc.com

Inspiration is Like Life

2008-07-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

True inspiration is like life. It isn't free. It isn't cheap. It is precious and hard to find. When you find something that inspires you to be better and live better, to grow and to increase, then you need to hold on to it, appreciate it, honor it.

God is my inspiration. He inspires me to grow, to expand, to increase in joy, peace and righteousness. I could murmur and complain. I could say that God is unfair because I cannot speak. But, I say that God is good because I can type. I can write. I can hear. I can see. I can smell. I can taste. I can feel. I can love. I can be loved. I can understand and learn. So what if there's one thing I cannot do. There are a million I can do and do them well.

Comforting Words ~ July 21

2008-07-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

There are pains that destroy us, both inside and out. There are other pains that grow us up, showing us the power of perseverance.

Don't allow your pain to destroy you. Choose to grow inspite of anybody's best effort to stop you. God keep you is my prayer.

My Heroes

2008-07-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

Not very long ago, I had the pleasure of meeting three very intelligent and sweet women: Joyce Anthony, Lacresha Hayes and Erica Newton. My life has not been the same since hearing their testimonies and looking at their lives.

Joyce is an author, a friend, a mother, a wife, and a survivor of abuse. She's friendly, self-sacrificing, and kind. That is so rare today. I've had time to look this woman up all over the net. I frequent her blog, http://joyceanthony.tripod.com/blog. If she gives a recommendation of a book or a person, I can accept it wholeheartedly. I trust her and that's not easy for me to say. She has that something about her that makes her easy to love and easy to lean on. But, what I want is for her to feel comfortable leaning on me. She reminds me of a sister, someone you can laugh and cry with, disagree with, and then live and love for another day.

Lacresha is also an author and also a survivor of abuse. Lacresha and I have a very different relationship. She has become like a daughter to me. In fact, I call on her when I have a problem before I call on my own child. She has the wisdom of an old lady, but she's still young. There is a genuineness to her, sincerity and even naivity (if that is a word) that sticks out and I fear most people attach to her just to use her. Even with all the horrendous things that have befallen her, she somehow still keeps a certain optimism.

We came together to begin focusing on trying to get the government to put more money into free counseling for victims of sexual and physical abuse. She has a drive and energy that is highly contagious. She's always honest, always loving, always willing to pray, always ready with a scripture or two. I love her as if I'd had her, though that would be highly unlikely since I'm white with German roots and she's African American. Still, she is my family because she's proven her love and her willingness to sacrifice.

Then there is Erica, wife to an attorney and also an author. (Maybe God is trying to tell me something with all these author friends I have.) Erica is one of the snappiest people in the world. She has a quick wit. She is a snazzy dresser. She's a mini diva. LOL! I also have come to love her as my own. She has the biggest blue/green eyes you'd ever want to see. And now, she's pregnant with twins.

Erica helped me a lot recently when she and her husband actually flew out to be with me during a legal issue that could have cost my family the house we live in. My husband has been sick and down for awhile, though I've mostly kept that quiet. We were behind on our bills. I never asked. Never spoke a word about it. Erica wrote me and said her husband told her that they needed to come and help me. They did and paid the $1690 necessary for me to keep my house. The day they paid the money was the first time I'd ever laid real eyes on either of them. She adopted me as her mom and writes me every single day.

I had to stop a moment to cry. That is not the kind of thing that happens everyday. Erica means a lot to me because her emails and ultrasound photos and such keep me going. She is like an anti-depressant. She's a ball of love and joy and I'll never be the same now that she's in my life.

These three women are all different, yet they are all the same. They are all more than willing to put themselves aside for others and I feel they should be celebrated. I love them all and I pray that nothing ever separates me from either of them.

Challenges We Must Overcome

2008-07-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

Many of you who know me personally know that I am mute. I cannot speak at all, only a grunt or two here and there. Often, when I'm out doing my weekly shopping, people yell at me to do this or that, not realizing that I hear just fine. For some reason, many people think that most mutes cannot hear either, hence the reason they are mute.

My inability to speak is just one more challenge I've had to overcome. It's not the first, won't be the last, and is certainly not the biggest one. I've had to get over being molested by my father. I've had to get beyond being mistreated by my mother. I have face many, many challenges, just like many of you.

We have to learn that challenges are not made to stop us. If we stop everytime we come up against something more difficult than we're used to coming against, then we'd never get anywhere. Challenges make us faster, wiser, better, smarter, stronger. Look at all those people in the special Olympics. I'm sure they had their challenges to even convince people that their lives are not over just because they have some disability or another.

I didn't grow up with a hero or role model. I don't trust easily and almost anything can turn me off from a person. I'm one of those kinds of people who want to hire someone to do a full investigation on a person before I become friends with them. I don't like being hurt. However, as old as I am, I just recently learned a lot from some of the special ladies in my life. They, too, have been through hell and come back. They, too, have suffered what much of the world is in denial about. And like myself, they are survivors! They refuse to stop. So, even when I'd want to stop, they won't let me.

Overcome your challenges. Don't let them overcome you!

Support Structures

2008-07-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

When you've been battered or abused in any way, you need to find people who can show you support and give you comfort when you need it most. This is what this blog is all about.