Music Mondays: O'Jays - I Can Hardly Wait 'Til Christmas

My grandparents raised me from the moment I left the hospital; they are who I call mom and dad. My biological mother's parents stepped up to the plate and I am forever grateful for them. Being a sensitive child, as teen I shut down and closed off my heart to most, specifically my mother. When my biological mother made a rare visit home I would go to my room and shut the door, the only way we would bound is through music. One day I played O'Jays "I Can Hardly Wait 'Til Christmas" video in my room. Once my mom heard it through my bedroom door, she knocked and asked would I play it again. I must have played the song a million times that day.

That is why music is such an important part of my life because it helps comfort me at a time when I feel alone. This is the song my mother and I share as our favorite and I want to share it with you this Christmas Eve. Remember the excitement of opening gifts and playing with your new toys? Staying up late from excitement of the next day? As an adult I still can't wait 'til Christmas to honor the birth of Christ and share love with family and friends. I hope you enjoy one of my favorite Christmas songs ever "I Can Hardly Wait 'Til Christmas".

Music Mondays: Fred Hammond & RFC - You Are the Living Word

"Jesus Jesus, that's what we call you, manger born, put on a tree,you died to save humanity"

No words can express my love and gratitude for the life of my savior, Jesus Christ. Born in a manger, sent to save you and me. At a difficult time like it is now in the wake of the Newton CT shooting, I seek hope through my Lord and savior. While it is difficult to celebrate Christmas when you think about parents who lost their little precious babies this past Friday. As I cried and cried trying to make sense out of what happened, nothing made sense. As a teacher I easily put myself in the position of the teachers who faced death on Friday. My heart goes out to them as I send a prayer and make a vow to live a peaceful and loving life in their honor. That is what Christmas is all about to me, it is about love, peace, joy in a world full of darkness. Join me in listening to one of my favorite gospel songs "You Are the Living Word" by Fred Hammond.

Music Mondays: Mary Mary - "Carol of the Bells"

Getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season where we are concerned with getting the tree, buying gifts and preparing to travel; we have to stop and remember the reason for this joyous season. The reason for Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The beautiful harmonies of Mary Mary on "Carol of The Bells" does just that! Gospel group Mary Mary adds a soulful melody to this famous Christmas song. Personally one of my favorites on their Christmas album. Add this great Holiday CD to your collection and enjoy with family this Christmas season.

Music Mondays: Ledisi - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

First of all if you have not heard Ledisi's Christmas album you are missing a treat. On Ledisi's "It's Christmas" album she sings some original Holiday songs and also she sings some Holiday favorites. One of the favorites she sings is "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" in which Ledisi brings her rich vocals to the track. As soon as the song begins Ledisi starts off with blended, perfect harmonies giving the timeless classic her personal twist. To help you get in the Holiday spirit, here is Ledisi "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

Music Mondays: Faith Evans - O Come All The Faithful

Feliz Navidad! Ha, Happy Holiday season to you. Yes, I know we just finished celebrating Thanksgiving; I bet you probably are still finding how many ways you can eat turkey left over’s. You know: turkey salad, turkey soap, turkey sandwich, turkey, turkey, turkey! I have moved on from Thanksgiving wanting to create my own Christmas spirit. Like some of you I live alone, far away from close family. Being away from home can be tough during the holiday season making it that much harder to be in the Holiday spirit. So my mission this year is to create the joy of Christmas by posting a Christmas song every week until the week of Christmas. Please feel free to add a song for me to add to the blog. Is Christmas your favorite holiday too? What special holidays do you celebrate in your home?

Sexuality

Capacity for sexual feelings or sexual activity is one of many definitions to describe sexuality. What better way to end Scorpio Season (Happy Birthday fellow Scorps) then to talk about sexuality? To me sexuality simply means being fully aware of our sensual selves. Sexuality is having an innate sense of sexual energy that is natural as breathing. Sexual activity speaks for itself. When having sex our sexuality is heightened in the act making us feel connected to our erotic natures. What I want to highlight is that there is a misconception that having sex makes you a vixen and in touch with your sexuality. Far from the truth! While being sexually active heightens one’s sexuality, the act itself does not give you automatic sex appeal. You have to feel connected to your sexual self before having sex. For those who have had sexual intercourse at an uncertain time in their lives spoke of having “bad” sex. “Bad” sex is a matter of perspective, but not enjoying exchange of being with your partner due to insecurities and fears is not sexy! Many people take their insecurities with them into the bedroom. Releasing our fears, body image concerns, guilt, and shame frees up inner tension and inhibitions that we have making sex that much greater.

I remember the day I began to feel connected to my sexual energy. Being a virgin people are still taken aback by this; my simple answer is sexuality is within. See, I am a Scorpio woman. Sex is like breathing to me and a sacred act, hence why I am waiting for my divine mate to join me before having sex. Connecting to our sexual energy is different for each of us, for me it meant being soft and feminine. I take long bubble baths with candles, music and afterwards I put on scented lotion and perfume. That makes me feel in touch with my goddess energy. Not by having sex, but seduction, setting the mood. Knowing this I am ready for sex because I am no longer afraid to admit to taboos or express my sexual nature.

Sex is a choice. When we are emotionally mature enough to handle the good, bad, and ugly of sex, I believe we are ready to engage in the act. The pressure to have sex is not just among teenagers, but adults too! We have to embrace our lives on this journey called life and know it will not look like anyone else’s. If your life looks like someone else you may not be on your chosen path! Sexuality is creativity in pure form. Raw energy not tainted by imagery, our own opinions or the opinions of others, but unleashing whatever you feel inside! Getting past our own misconceptions about sexuality helps us to create a better reality for ourselves. We do not have to live within the limitations that are placed on us from society or what we place on ourselves. Accept those whose sexual expression is different from yours. Go deep, release hidden fears, and live life responsibly as the sexual human being you are!

*PS Emotional trauma due to sexual abuse is a serious issue. If you have been a victim of sexual abuse and it is holding you back from your best self get professional help.

Gratitude

First of all I want to give honor and glory to God from where all my blessings flow. I am in the best space I’ve ever been in. For that alone, I say thank you Lord. A message of gratitude is what inspired my blog post. To say thank you for the support you show me when you view my blog. I want to say thank you to those who stop by and leave a message of encouragement. When we express gratitude we tell the universe we are ready for the next level. We are saying we are ready for abundance by showing gratitude for what we have in the present. The Bible says “when praises go up, blessings come down”. Being aware of our blessings allows us to vibrate at a higher level attracting what it is our heart desires. As apostle Paul has said “No matter where I am, I will praise the Lord”. No matter my condition, I will express gratitude.

This Friday is my last day at my current employer. Back in 2007, I would lay in bed and day dream about the day I could leave Oklahoma City for good. My plan was to be gone by Aug 2007 and I made goals that supported my plan. Through prayer, intention, and hard work I received a phone call to teach in July 2007 at a Head Start program in the Washington DC area. Less than a month later I packed and moved to the DC area in August of 2007! Five years later I am humble by being able to live my dream. Reflecting on my past, I am grateful for my present. Ready for the next challenge, I prayed to move on and start anew. I asked God for a new job, and change of location. Finally a breakthrough, I will begin working for my new employer this November and I will move to DC or Maryland shortly after. God is moving in my life and for that I say thank you!

Turning 35 on Tuesday, I reflected on my life. I am honored to be where I am and grateful to see another year. My cup runneth over and I want to share that over flow with the world. My heart is open and ready to give and receive love. That is where my energy will go. My intention will be set on making space for love to come in my life. I am grateful to be the reflection of the love I want to attract. When we set our intentions we live with meaning. You will then find gratitude in the smallest things. A meaningful life to me is being grateful on the journey, not just setting your eyes on the destination. In the season of thanksgiving show gratitude, express praise to our most high God and the Universe. Join me in allowing the law of abundance to work by showing gratitude.

Image Is Everything

Imagery is a very powerful influence on how we view ourselves and others. Being judged by our bodies, as unfair as it is, it happens. My peace comes from not trying to control the views of others, but having peace with the view I have of myself. What I come to understand that the opinions of others do not hold weight, unless we believe them to be true. It cannot be said enough about who we allow in our lives, what we watch on TV or images in magazines. Negative energy can damage the soul! I was reaffirmed by someone I admire recently who told me, “fly is fly, being chubby does not matter”. Well let me tell you, for years I believed that being thin was in. I felt UNLOVABLE; I did not want to be intimate with a man because of it. I was disconnected and ashamed of what I saw when I looked in the mirror. How many of you can relate? The LOVE hate relationship I had with myself is a reflection of what I thought was acceptable in society. Reading magazines, watching TV, most of the images I see are not a reflection of what I look like physically. The images in the media, not many of us look like them. Today it is about who is perfect. It’s the curvy women with no stretch marks. Also, we see the man who is tall and physically fit with muscles and bronze skin. Images of perfection range from teeth, to breast, to large butts and it can make us fixated on our own imperfections. This can make anyone who does not fit society’s image of beauty struggle with who they are.

That is why I began a challenge. I started taking media in with douses, including social media. I began personal inventory of what I thought was beauty and not what society seen as beauty. On this long journey I learned self acceptance and that being a size 14 is not so bad after all. This became especially true after visiting the art gallery in D.C. this past spring. Pablo Picasso, a fellow Scorpio like me, had an exhibition of his famous art. What I learned is Picasso had quite an appetite for women. Whenever he had a new LOVER, he painted pictures of her, like an obsession. One of his LOVERS was a full figured woman whom became his inspiration for several paintings. I was in awe of how beautiful the paintings were that I began to appreciate myself that much more.

In the exhibition I saw beauty like I never have before. The art inspired me to LOVE myself deeply, to allow my sensual nature to come alive like the women on the walls of the Galleria. Throughout the gallery I saw pictures and paintings of full figured women. Most of the images were nude and the women were soft and sensual. Looking at the art work, I envisioned myself. I saw my body as a work of art. Scanning the room, I appreciated all beauties as I embraced my own! From size 2 to 20 we have LOVE who we are with courage. Being honest with our own short comings is how we heal. LOVING ourselves as we are is how we find peace on our path to LOVE. Image is everything. Depending on who is looking, the perception varies. What is most important is the perception you have of yourself!

Fashion Fridays: High Bun

Unless you live on Mars, you have seen everyone rocking the high bun. When I say everyone, I mean everyone. From celebrities, to round the way fly chicks, so many people have fell in LOVE with the high bun. My twin sis and I joked the other day about how long we have worn the high bun. We guessed going back to high school, which was the mid 90’s! What I LOVE about this classy hair style, is that you can wear it with anything. If you want to dress up or down, this classic hair style will always make a statement.

There are several ways to create the bun. You can use you natural hair that you have grown out or add hair weave. In high school I wore the goddess braid bun. That was simply synthetic braiding hair; I would braid it in a tight long braid, and then wrap it around my pony tail. In 03’ students in my afterschool program taught me the sock trick! Recently I bought a bun holder at the beauty supply store to create a large bun using hair weave. Anyway you choose do what feels natural to you. What I enjoy about fashion that what is great never really goes out of style! Enjoy.

Fashion Fridays: Color Block

I am a trendy chick. Simply put, I adore fashion! The new trends give me a chance to express more of my personality and show my youthful and fun side of who I am. Colors have a way of bringing the fun out of anyone. My clothes collection at one point was super serious all the time. Black, brown, tan, grey, off white, white, basically any neutral color! My grandmother taught me as a teen, if I wanted to boost my mood I needed to add color to my wardrobe. After looking at many fashion blogs, Instyle Magazine, and TLC’s What Not To Wear I noticed color was a must have! I slowly added color to my collection, but color blocking on the other hand? That was going to take some time. With the support of my fashionista twin sis, I now am on a color blocking frenzy!! And you can be on a color block frenzy too.

It does not matter what your budget is, you can be fly! Be bold this Fall season and add color to your closet. Brighten your mood and look good while you’re doing it!

Feel The LOVE

Doing the 21-day Mediation with Deepak Chopra, my life changed. I began doing heart mediations using the mantra “I am LOVEABLE”. Mantras mean speaking what it is that we want into existence. Through doing mantras my goal is to become the words I speak, also to allow the meaning of the phrases to touch my heart. Through the 21- day meditation I have centered myself and set an intention of showing and practicing giving LOVE daily. While taking on this challenge I realized giving LOVE is not a problem for me, but feeling worthy of receiving LOVE is a different story!

I will be 35 in October. Being 35 is a blessing because I feel I’m at an age I can finally look within and say I know who I am. I AM all things, with a soul as deep as the Pacific Ocean! This season in my life I crave close connections in all relationships. I long for kisses, intimate conversations, and confessions of hopes and dreams with my soul mate. I can’t wait to get on my iPad and do facetime with my cousin. As soon as I hit the parking lot leaving work, I am calling my twin sister on the phone to talk about our day. When I get to work I am greeted by parents and my colleagues with smiles and hellos. Often I stop on my way to my class giving out hugs to most in passing. As I enter my classroom my students erupt with “Good morning Ms. Natasha” as they are eating breakfast. I then greet them and say hello. I can barely put my purse away before I hear different voices screaming at me saying, “I have new shoes”, “Ms. Natasha you look cute”, “I went to the park yesterday”, and “Can you sit by me?" Gleefully I answer everyone, feeling LOVED and connected.

Since mediating, I have a whole new outlook on life. I draw and create LOVING experiences to my life by seeking LOVE in all things. Wanting to maximize my experience on earth, I now LOVE with intention. I have meaningful connections daily, making an effort to feel the LOVE of everything around me. I challenge you to make this simple shift in your life. In every moment you can, feel the LOVE. We make it our mission to give LOVE, what happens often is we do not allow ourselves to be on the receiving end.

Going forward, allow something such as a fresh breeze to create a LOVING moment. Take a moment out of your busy day to reflect on everyone in your life who LOVES you as you are! LOVE is around us every day. LOVE is in the stranger saying hello. LOVE is in the random text from a LOVER or friend. LOVE is the sun shining bright or a beautiful rain shower in the middle of the night. LOVE is the laughter of kids playing. LOVE is in a gentle touch. LOVE is in an unexpected compliment. LOVE is in forgiving yourself and knowing its okay to be you! LOVE is everywhere we go and deep inside of us all. Connect to the divine LOVE energy inside you. Feel the LOVE!

Music Mondays: Nas-Cherry Wine (CDQ)

Where do I begin? There are many words to describe Nas. Legend, G.O.A.T., The Don, GOD's son, leader, prophet, and father. The words I use to describe Nas is my favorite rapper. I have been a big fan since 16 when illmatic was released. Ten albums later Nas gives us another classic "Life Is Good". If you have not heard the album you have to pick it up. The album is well thought out and reaches every generation, which is a task few artist Nas age can pull off.

My favorite song on the album is "Cherry Wine" which features the late Amy Winehouse. In the chorus Amy sings about longing for a mate that others tell her is so close, but he feels so far away. Boy, can I relate! That is why I LOVE this song. Being open to new LOVE Nas talks about what he desires in a mate and the challenges he faces with meeting the one. A relate-able song and album. If you are a soul music fan your in for a treat. Enjoy!

Art. Fun. Wine. Again.

As spiritual beings, it is important that throughout our life we find things that make us happy. Well, one of the things that makes me happy is painting. What I find funny is I did not realize I was so passionate about painting and art until I decided to join Reiko at her paint studio in D.C. This time our focus was on the amazing Vincent Van Gogh. Van Gogh LOVED flowers and vases and that inspired my portrait. How do you paint like Van Gogh? While one of my girlfriend’s portraits came pretty close, mine on the other hand was a long shot. And I was okay with that too! The fun in creating the life we want is learning the art of no expectation. Accepting whatever may happen and having peace with the outcome. Going into the studio my heart and mind was open to I simply having fun! I was thrilled to be able to spend time with friends, listen to good music, drink some wine, and create! Below are photos from the night. Hope you enjoy!!

Are you doing new and fun things in your life? Tell me, I would LOVE to hear. Blessings!

Fashion Fridays

Being inspired by my LOVE for fashion, trying new things, transformation and change I decided to do something new! Every Friday I want to highlight what is new, exciting or simply my favorite in fashion. Today I have my favorite item this summer, the wedge sandal. No matter your budget, I have the style and price for you! Let me know what is your favorite item this summer. Blessings!!

Marci Patent Wedges J. Crew


Raffia Wedges Loeffler Randall


Women's Canvas-Strap Mid-Wedges Old Navy


Women's Color-Block Cork Wedges Old Navy


Women's Mixed-Pleated Wedges Old Navy


Women's Mossimo Brown Pallas Wedges Target


Raffia Wedges Nine West

Through The Valley

"Joy is your birth right"~Sarah Ban Breathnach

I am in no way an expert on the subject of creating, however I do know what it feels like to want a life that you do not have. When I think of creating I believe it is like looking at a blank canvas. Our lives are the blank canvas and what we feel are the colors. The brushes are our intentions and the action when we begin to paint is the creation. Like an artist, we create what we are feeling. There are times when we are feeling blue, black or grey. These said times are also known as being in the valley. The valley is the bottom between the last mountain you just climbed and the mountain in front of you that is going to give you what you want. We all want to be at the top of the mountain celebrating our victories. But going through the valley leads to creativity on the journey. As Deepak often says "were there is chaos, creativity is born".

In the bible it says we will not understand everything that GOD does, I am sure we all experienced this truth. Just a month ago I received a phone call from my grandmother that she had a cancer cell in her right breast. I had an outer body experience, like is this really happening to me? A few days later, I went to a carnival. As I was driving to the carnival I turn into the parking lot and was hit by a car. I was not hurt, thank GOD. The emotional scars were beginning to form though. I stood in the parking lot from 8:00 pm to 9:45 pm, alone! The person who was at fault left me with my car, alone, waiting for the tow truck to come. Parking security vanishes and police drove around me as if I were in there way. A month later I go to the hair shop to get braids and I get 2 nd degree burns on my back! I spent my Friday night in the emergency room, hurt physically, emotionally, and spiritually. What I felt in that moment was, "Why am I creating this life with all my positive intentions and deeds?"

The reality of life is that bad things happen to good people. As we make our intentions to be positive every day, we have know our efforts are not in vain. Going through the valley makes us feel as if we have done something wrong. What the valley reminds us is that we are not in control. It is a humbling experience that puts on our hearts that it is time to pray, meditate, call family, an older saint or elder for much needed guidance. It is a reassurance that we can't do this thing called life alone.

How to create? If in a passing moment I feel pain, I counteract that with some feeling of joy. When I feel stressed and overwhelmed, I seek balance by doing things that brings me peace. I will stay in the space I am in, I express whatever I'm feeling no matter how hard it is. I then acknowledge my feelings as valid and find a healthy way to cope. And then moving forward I remind myself I have the power to create the outcome I desire. Watching Soulful Sunday on OWN, Sarah Ban Breathnach said, "Coming on the other side from pain to peace is like going through a tunnel". Pains valley can be a tunnel waiting for us to see the light on the other side. Apart of our journey will be dark and long like a tunnel, as we walk our path to LOVE. For me my mission is to come from a space of LOVE and acceptance at all times. LOVING all things as they are and accepting outcomes even if it is not want I wanted. I am learning in setbacks comes chances to be creative. Who will I be after I am faced with a challenge? How will I respond to the Universe when I feel the laws are not applying to my life? As I put the pieces together I ask GOD to send his comforter into my life and nurture me with LOVE. I ask for the lesson. Listen for it, receive the lesson, and go forward. Continue to create, where you are, no matter if it is at the top of the mountain or going through the valley!

Music Monday: YahZarah - All My Days feat. Darien Brockington

Not sure what the weather is where you are, but here in the DMV area (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) we have a cloudy overcast. Grey skies calls for a mellow music Monday, and I want to share what I am jammin' to today. Passion, soul stirring, sensual and melodic is just a few words to describe "All My Days" by YahZarah featuring Darien Brockington. This is the type of music that makes you want to grab your mate and hold them close. And for those like me who are waiting on LOVE (male/female relationship), it puts a deep yearning in your soul to be close to someone.


We often say that there aren't any good soulful music anymore and that's simply not true, we just have seek it. For all my soul music fans here is a great ballad. Enjoy!

Fun. Art. Wine.

I believe as I have said before that we are all artist. When creating the life we want it takes imagination, connection, being a free spirit, being LOVE, and a willingness to take some risk. Looking at life from the perspective of a painter, our lives are the canvas and as artist we have the power to hold the tools.

I went to Reiko painting studio in Washington DC for art and wine. My friend sent me the invite and I said yes instantly! I remember the mood was set with great music picked by Reiko, also she had tasty snacks such as crackers and cheese! And the blush wine calmed us and allowed everyone to be in "create" mode. I learned about great creative artist named Jackson Pollock who took a risk and was the first to simply drip and let paint run on a canvas. I learned in my own life I can create a life that is original, inspirational, and innovative. Reiko had us sketch what we wanted to paint on piece of paper first. I instantly began to write words and give them life. As I began to create I felt more and more connected to my work. My deep passion for art came alive. I do not see my myself as a good artist such as a painter or someone who draws well. What I know for sure is that we must not limit our selves based on what is not our strengths and be ready for many lessons! Like an artist I can be a little weird, difficult to understand at times, simple, yet complex. I have a LOVE for culture, people, Spirituality, and see beauty in everything! Let your life be your personal canvas! Create. Create. Create.

Below are some wonderful photos from Arts and Bubbles with me and my girlfriends. If you are in the DC area you have to check Reiko out. Her website address is: www.funartwine.com. She is a super young artist with a beatiful spirit! Hope you enjoy. Blessings!

Getting Rid Of The Boxes

Instead of thinking outside the box, get rid of the box. ~Deepak Chopra


Do you ever feel confined? Limited? At times I do, I feel trapped inside a box, only to realize I allowed it to happen. Since 9 years old I have had this saintly image. I remember playing "house" at a friend's home when I was about 9 years old. Of course all the girls were the moms and the boys were the dad. Well, I don't remember much, but I do remember me and my "boyfriend" rubbing up against each other. In the hood we called it "humping", too funny. Of course our clothes were on so no harm was done, but the sexual intentions were clear. My twin sister and I were popular kids and always well liked. Grateful for that. So of course my hump buddy would look cool if he went out and told everyone what happened. It took little to no time to get back to me. I heard "Leleroy (yes, that is his name, pronounced Leh-leroy) said he popped your cherry". I had no clue what that meant, but I knew it was not good for my image! So when asked was it true I immediately said NO! Of course I lied, but I had to protect my saint-like image. And guess who they believed? Me, the saint!

At 34, I still war with the saint vs. the sinner within. As my relationship with Christ grows, I judge myself unmercifully, expecting to live up to unattainable standards. Understanding I have the power to create the life I want, I take responsibility for what I project to the world. The Lord revealed to me that the limits that I felt were put on me by the world, I actually placed on myself. Yes, take it in! See, we play the victim and get upset when we are seen only one dimensional . What we all must understand is that if we are the creators of what we want, we are also the creators of its opposite. Every day you make a choice as what direction your life will go in good or bad. As creators, it is our energy and what we are sending into the universe. What we feel directly affects our reality. If I feel like no one likes me, that it is now my reality! I wasted so many years putting my energy into what I don't want instead of what I do. If it is not creating the reality I want, I will not give it any energy!! Stop wasting your energy, be in constant state of awareness. Being aware of what limits you are placing on your life.


Watching Mary Mary's new TV show stirred emotions inside of me. Erica decided to have pole workout lessons for her girls retreat while her sister Tina feared criticism from the public. Tina's fear was if the general public saw the gospel group Mary Mary on a "stripper" pole they would appear to be unfit Christians. Although I am not in a platinum selling gospel group, as a Christian the fear is real about judgment from others. What GOD has allowed me to understand is that it's okay to be a complex person. I do not have to live inside a safe simple box that gives others comfort to control who I AM. My inner vixen and inner saint can reside within me without comprise one for the other. I like Erica had to say I can be Christian and sensual. Instead of me judging myself or other women without mercy, I now show the same grace I ask for.

We are all spiritual beings having a human experience. Understanding this principle I have begun to create the inner life I long for. I am creating a life that will align me with the Holy Spirit every day. Whatever I need to learn I pray that the Holy Spirit will show me. Creating for me means actively participating in a life that you envision and doing what is in your power to make it happen. I learned that in order to stop allowing others to put me in a box I had to stop doing it to myself. I understand whatever I want people to see, I have the power to make that my reality. One day at a time stripping back the layers of low self-esteem, people pleasing, guilt, and feeling of alienation. Tapping into the LOVE source I recognize the divine goddess within. I no longer suppress my sexual desires. Although I am a virgin, I find creative ways to release sexual energy. Law of Attraction draws to us the very thing we feel, think and do. If you do not like the life you're in right now, start a new! It's your life, create it as you feel led. Know that the way people see you is how you projected your image to the world. No one is a 24/7 saint, scholar, activist, painter, educator or whatever other label we identify with to give our ego comfort. We are human beings trying to figure this thing called life out.

Music Monday: India.Arie & Idan Raichel - Open Door

"No expecting just accepting"~India.Arie

Several weeks ago I received India.Aries’s video on my facebook page. Instantly I received chills because I have been studying what it means to "create" for a few months now. I knew it was spirit that allowed this video to cross my path. I have always expected great things and while I believe it is okay to have expectations, it could lead to many disappointments. In the video India explains her journey to allowing her to live in the flow and just create! To become creative means to release what we think we ought to be and allow Spirit to move within. What do we do when we are stopping the flow of creativity? When we block what we feel, our own personal truth for others? India was in this space and she said one day "I woke up and realized this doesn't feel good, I don't have to do it". In order for you and I to create we have to understand what it is we are feeling and accepting that no matter how uncomfortable that is! Go to your center, your Spiritual foundation. In Christ I know I am healed. I seek his face daily and ask that he reveals his truth often so I can continually be in a space of growth, awareness and freedom! India said her creative process is "Pray, listen, and then write". How do you create? What process will you seek to gain the life your soul desires, your life purpose?

Here is a 23 min video of India.Arie explaining her creative process and a beautiful song she created with Idan Raichel. Enjoy!

Creating.

The Victim or the creator~Deepak Chopra

Watching Deepak Chopra on Oprah I was taken back by the quote "be the victim or the creator". That one line set me free, I instant received what GOD was telling me. You can allow the disappointments of life to depress you, taking you to your lowest point. You know the place of bitterness, jealousy and not letting go of the past. Or become creative and be the author of your LOVE story. While it may seem difficult at times to create the life we want, it is our divine birth right to do so.

When I think of creating I instantly think of a painter. I see a lot of colors, nice size brushes, and a big mess! My vision of creating allows me to be free and to face the world with bright colors and big strokes of courage! As I write to you I am aligning myself with the life my heart desires, with what I believe is my GOD given purpose. I am creating a masterpiece that is who I AM. It is who you are too! Your life is a masterpiece, high priced, valuable, a beauty to behold.

Victimization is a disease. It is a sickness that we all must be healed from. You are not your past. Repeat to yourself "I AM not my past". Say this to yourself as many times as needed throughout the day. Allow these words to heal you. Free yourself of what happened when you were five. Forgive yourself for being in a relationship with a man you know wasn't the best choice for you. What ever is keeping you from your divine calling, face it! Address the issue (s). Go to counseling, talk with someone in your worship place, a friend, and write your feelings down in a journal. Find creative ways for you to heal by doing things you enjoy. GOD did not promise us a life free of pain, but the tools to navigate through it.

As creators we have authority over our lives. Our GOD in heaven grants us permission to heal ourselves, speak life into death situations, and simply have faith it will work out. I will blog about "creating" for the month of May because I have been studying this subject for a while now. The insight I gain I want to share with you. What I come to understand so far in my 34 years of living on this planet is as we FEEL we create. The cycle is what we feel then becomes a thought, and then a thought an action! Examine your heart. Look deep within. Are you creating the life you want or living the life others said was best for you? Are you enslaved by your fears and self inflicted wombs that you stubbornly refuse to get right within? Feel your pain, disappointments, joy, and peace. This will maximize your life and lead you in the direction you are longing to go. No longer living as a victim, free to create the life your heart truly desires.

Resurrection Of Christ

“Therefore, go make all the disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and The Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28-19-20 NLT

He is not dead he has risen! Amen. Happy Resurrection Sunday to you, to believers welcome and non believers I hope that changes after today. The life and death of Christ is an inspirational one. HE was perfect and human at the same time. Gentle and kind says the Bible and LOVED us all as we are. That alone should make you praise him! But there was more to Christ. He was a warrior for he fought the battle of sharing the word of GOD with non believers, which cost HIM his life. My Lord healed the sick and prayed with the poor. When Jesus the Christ walked the earth his mission was for others to know GOD and for their souls to be saved forever! After the Lord resurrected early Sunday morning, he left a message with the disciples before descending into heaven. The message was to continue the good fight! Go preach the good word so that others can be saved. On this resurrection Sunday I want to challenge us with the question, how have you allowed Christ LOVE to be seen in your life? Have you continued the good fight so that others may be saved?

In Matthew it chronicles for the first time up to the death of Christ and what we learn several things. One, Jesus death had been prophesied, so the Lord knew it was coming. When Jesus stands before his trial Roman governor Pilate asked Jesus “Are you the King of the Jews?” HE answered “Yes, it is as you say”! Matthew 27:11 NLT Although Christ knew his death would come from that statement alone he did not allow his fear keep him from his truth that ultimately cost him his life. At what cost will you tell your truth? It may not be a physical death, but one of the Spirit. Too often we go into the world afraid to say “Yes, I do believe in the Lord”. I myself have become so tolerant of other Faiths I forget to champion my own! No more! As Christ died and rose on the third day he did not come back as body but of the Holy Spirit. He had a rebirth! Let the LOVE of Christ push you to the next level of your ministry and purpose on earth.

What other lesson we learn from the death on the cross was that it was unjust. See, Barabbas was the criminal, not Jesus. There was so much hatred in the hearts of the people they still shouted “crucify him”! And the Lord did nothing wrong! How many times do you feel helpless, picked on or unjustly accused? It almost feels like a death. The LOVE of Christ can heal you. For his death is not just one of pain, but of his LOVE, forgiveness, and for our freedom to do both! Get to know him today and you too can experience this new freedom. No matter how much people crucify you, the LOVE of Christ can heal you and create in you a new clean heart!

Do not let the resurrection of Christ to be in vain. Go forward disciples and speak the good word. Encourage those who do not know him to have a relationship with him, for them to join with Christ through body and spirit with baptism. For Christ is alive through all of us who believe! The world needs to see Christ through his followers. Let the resurrection of Christ to rise up in us! Let the Lord our GOD rise up in our lives. The bible says, “Put into action GOD’s saving work in your lives.” ~Philippians 2:12 Jesus died and rose for us to be saved! The action for us is to allow his grace and mercy to be seen in our lives daily. And know that as you go forward on your journey the Lord is with you always, even to the end of the age.

Random

Happy 2012! My first blog entry this year, welcome back to my blogosphere. I have not updated my blog in awhile and for that I apologize. Can you believe it is already March? Wow, we are in the third month of this New Year, so we need to catch up.

As a kid I always made New Year resolutions religiously, didn’t you? I stopped making Resolutions years ago because I rarely kept them. Not sure why I never kept them, my guess was because they usually were superficial. Now I just make my goals for the entire year. I have small goals that are: studying, reading new books, spending more time with people who LOVE me, joining organizations, and learning to cook healthy foods. Then larger goals: Going back to school, take a vacation out of the country, take care of heath, and save more money. Having goals keeps me aligned with my purpose. Utilizing our time wisely on earth helps us feel better about
ourselves and that spirit blesses society as a whole.

The key to making goals is not to overwhelm, but to keep on task. This year I have enrolled in school. I am currently in my first semester and I have already had some tough lessons. One of my lessons has been to never take a fast track online class again. The reason I am back in school there are classes I need to fulfill my teacher certification requirement. My journey back to school will be tough but I am encouraged. I am on a mission!

The goal for my blog is to continue giving light and positivity. Everywhere we turn bad news haunts us from the news, magazines or drama at the job. At times it appears we can’t escape negativity. My mission in my life is no matter where I am I want to spread light in dark places. I will use the Holy Spirit to guide as I follow my heart and speak what I believe the Lord wants me to say and more importantly to do. My heart desire is for readers of my blog to feel a connection to GOD when they leave this space. GOD speaks in many ways and my goal is to share whatever I feel that is with you!

So what have you been up to so far? Any goals for the New Year or do you make New Year resolutions? Please connect with me and let me know how life has been for you so far in 2012. Blessings!

Music Mondays: Gonna Be Alright (F.T.B) Feat.Ledisi - Robert Glasper Experiment

You know the feeling, when you hear a good LOVE song as soon as the music begins to play you start smiling? That feeling is what happens to me as soon as “Gonna Be Alright” by The Robert Glasper Experience featuring Ledisi comes on! The band plays this drum kick and then the rest of the music plays for up to 32 seconds and then Ledisi begins to sing. Heaven!! I instantly connect to lyrics, experiencing what the songstress is expressing with words. The lyrics are simple and repeat “Just bring me the sunshine with your smile, and I’ll be okay”. As a hopeful romantic this song does everything for me! Hope you enjoy it the same.

Music Mondays: Ah Yeah feat. Musiq Soulchild and Chrisette Michele