Daily application of the Word to Life

From my heart to yours.

2012-01-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

Let your light shine this year! Let your spirit run free!
Take the time to stand at the water’s edge and look out over the vastness and
the seemingly endless view and shout to the heavens, “As far as the eye can see
and beyond there exist endless possibilities and they start with my choices.”

Feel it, believe it, have faith and most importantly...live
it! Yes, we are living in uncertain times, but if you review history, times
always appear to be uncertain in some form or fashion. That’s why I’m a big
proponent of living life until the end. I’ve become known for saying, “You
never know where life will take you, so just keep living.”

Where are you headed in your life this newly christened
year? Are you going go back to school? How about changing careers? Really
increase your exercise to help decrease your mid-section? Have better control
of your finances? Remove yourself from that unhealthy relationship? Or stop
overindulging in the liquid spirits or stop using street and prescribed drugs
as a way of coping with life’s challenges? I could go on and on.

It all starts with your choices. If you can (and I encourage
you to try) don’t complicate issues. Keep it simple. Simply give yourself permission
to live. Then do it! Take action where needed and attempt to remove, replace
and do away with as much self-inflicted negativity as possible.

I was privileged to meet an older wiser man named Henry
Walker during a down period of my life. The gentleman was a resident of a
nursing home. In my role as a volunteer, it was our responsibility to visit
certain institutions and report on findings of poor care, neglect, etc. One day
Mr. Walker asked me to read a letter to him he’d received from his daughter.
While we were interacting, he commented that I wasn’t my normal outgoing and
chipper self. That led to us having a conversation. During the talk I noticed
that Mr. Walker never stopped smiling. Then again over a two year period I had
the blessing of knowing him, I can’t remember him not having a smile on his
lips and a shine in his watery eyes. I can’t tell you how much his words meant
to me and how often I’ve put into action the advice he shared with me that day.
Little did I know that as he spoke to me and made it a point to lift me up, he
was actually dying. Even in what I considered—a dark hour—this man still took
the time to speak life into me. Mr. Walker died thirty minutes after I left his
room. I’m told that he died with a smile on his face.

When I met his daughter she told me that her father had a
tremendous passion for life and a great compassion for people. She said, “No
matter what, my Dad could always find the silver lining in the darkest of
clouds. He truly believed that each day was a new beginning.”

As I was leaving his room that day he spoke words that I
repeat and live by till this day, “You never know where life will take you, so
just keep living.”

I pray that contained in the above words there is food for
thought and nourishment for the soul.

Happy living in this New Year!

It all starts with belief!

2011-06-20T12:21:00.000-07:00

The response to my latest literary endeavor has been--in a word--awesome! 5 Simple Steps To Choosing Your Path has been well received by so many people that have followed my writing career from day one with the release of my debut best selling novel, Choices. I was honored by the attendance and love shown to me by all that attended the book signing in Philadelphia. People coming together to support a new writer such as me is truly the key to any success I'm currently experiencing.

When I first considered self-publishing, I feared that I wouldn't be taken seriously as an author. A big part of me thought that people would view me as less talented as a writer and incapable of attracting interest from a big name publishing house. Then common sense kicked in and I conducted some research that revealed some surprising revelations. Self-publishing wasn't new and for many years and for many reasons writers have chosen to self-publish their works. So I was not alone. Way before little ole me, great storytellers such as James Joyce, John Grisham, Zane Grey, Mark Twain and the list goes on and on, have all used self-publishing as a way of getting their work into print. And believe you me--it certainly wasn't because they lacked talent. Now mind you, I'm not saying I'm in their class as a writer, however it doesn't take Sara Lee to bake a pie. I was...correction...I am a writer. One that like the esteemed above mentioned chose to self-publish.

Initially when someone asked my why I took the path taken, I would attempt to come up with an answer that sounded good. Then I decided--after stumbling over my words repeatedly--to simply tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I chose to do so because I believed in myself and no amount of rejection letters or unopened and returned manuscripts would change that powerful fact.

Believing in oneself has taken many an unknown to the tops of the world. Ever heard of Bernard Schwartz or Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta? Both of them turned belief in themselves along with talent, sheer determination and a strong desire to succeed into incredible careers. By the way, I'm referring to Tony Curtis the actor and the mega-star Lady Gaga.

I might not ever write or publish a book that makes the New York Times bestsellers list. So what? Would not doing so make me less of a writer? Absolutely not--hundreds of writers--great ones, have never made the list. Tony Curtis never won an Oscar, but his film work is greatly revered by those in the movie industry and his fans around the globe. Would it shock you to know that Diana Ross never won a Grammy despite being the lead singer for the ultra-successful singing group, the Supremes as well as selling well over 100 million records?

Success isn't measured by a cup, but by those that keep getting up. I pray that with you reading these words, you will determine in your heart and mind to unleash the greatness that lies within. Don't allow fear, worry, or doubt to prevent you from joining the ranks that have blazed the trail before you. The world can never have enough Mark Twain's, Tony Curtis', or even Lady Gaga's.

Believe in your dream, believe in yourself. Remember where God has placed a vision there will be provision. You too are not alone.

The Wait is...almost over!

2011-03-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud and humbled to report that my second book is forthcoming. To be more accurate, it's just about ready to go to press. As promised this book--well more like a guide--is a self-help book that deals with my favorite topic, choices.

The book is entitled: 5 Simple Steps To Choosing Your Path. It will be available on my website: www.wgranvillebrown.com as well as on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Making a choice is a mental process. During the course of someone's life, that person will encounter innumerable situations requiring multliple selections. Some will be simple and may not require much thought or effort, while others will require a more detailed approach. The guide clearly illustrates five simple steps to making wiser choices in life and business.

Pick up a copy, or two and sit back, relax and enjoy. But most importantly....please apply the steps and let me know the results. God bless and thank all of you for your continued support!

The year changed--how about you?

2011-01-03T15:16:00.000-08:00

On January 1st of every year the clock strikes midnight and all across the land people shout "Happy New Year." They get so excited and many of us will make resolutions. You know--these promises we make to change something or another about ourselves. Like...lose weight...work out more...spend more time with loved ones...find someone to love...etc...etc. But by the fifteenth of the month the weight loss has turned into a gain. Working out is put off for another day and as for those loved ones--oh well they understand how busy one can get. Sound familiar?

Here's an interesting way to get started with this new year. I call it the "Examination of Determination." It's a way of examining your life and determining where you are and where you want to be. To benefit from this you must be honest with your toughest critic--you.

Tools needed: 1. A quiet spot to think. 2. Ink pen 3. Paper 4. A sincere desire to improve your life.

On the paper write down whatever date you decide to do this. Example: 4 Jan 2011. Under the date write down where you are in your life at that time. Put whatever comes to mind, such as lifestyle, habits, living conditions, job, income, etc. The purpose is to fully examine your life.
Then write down the same date using last year. Example: 4 Jan 2010. Under the date write down where you were in your life at that time. The purpose is to see how far you have come or if you are stagnant. You want to see if you have made any changes in your existence.
Then write down the same date five years from the first date. Example: 4 Jan 2016. Under the date write down where you would like to see yourself five years from now. The purpose is to see yourself living the life you truly want to be living at that time. It enables you to focus on what's really important.

Give this a shot. It's helped me make positive strides in my life as well as some clients I've worked with over the years. I do it every year as a way of staying focused.

I pray that 2011 will be much better for all of us than the last one. May our world experince true peace, feel more love and we reach out to each other in spirit and in truth. God Bless!

It only takes a word.

2010-11-24T07:19:00.000-08:00

The other day I had an interesting encounter. Standing in line at the ever-so-busy Apple store a nice mature lady struck up a conversation. The conversation started off rather forced since both of us were attempting to mask our frustration with the long slow moving line. In the middle of a sentence I said, "I'm sorry I didn't introduce myself...my name is W.Granville Brown." Immediately her face lit up and she fired back, "The author? OhmyGod...I loved your book and I read your blog."

Needless to say my ego inflated just a bit. Then she punched me lightly, but a hit none the least and said, "I'm so disappointed with you."

Flabbergasted I asked, "Why?"

"Because you have abandoned people that read your blog and have gotten something from your inspiring words."

Wow! Her words hit me like a Tyson hook-completely floored me. The primary reason for me writing in the first place was because I truly desire to be an inspiration to others. So to be told that someone felt abandoned by me since my last blog entry a few months ago, hit me in the blood pump.

My grandmother used to say, "You never know who's life you will impact, so don't take anyone for granted." Believe me, I don't take my readers for granted and I sincerely apologize to all that have supported my writing career through purchasing my debut novel, "Choices" and the readers of this blog. My prayers have been answered and that nice lady (with the heavy hand) put everything into perspective for me.

People are constantly in search of inspiration. In a perfect world-one medium would work for all-but in reality that's not the case. To even be consider an inspiration to someone is...well for me...I'll call it...an honor.

Words truly are powerful. They have the power to impact and transform. The right word at the right time could even save a life. I am extremely honored that people find my words inspirational and I pray that each of us will take the time to remember how powerful our words can be. Just as they can light a flame, they can also extinguish one too.

Share a kind word with someone today, be it a loved one or a stranger. You never know-you just might bring a little sunshine into someone's rainy day.

Ramblings of a middle aged mind.

2010-06-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

The great Stevie Wonder recorded a song entitled: "For Once In My Life." Over the years many performers have done their version of the song, but no one sings it with such passion and depth as Stevie. It's truly as if he was living the lyrics as he recorded the song.

For once in my life I have someone who needs me. Can I get a witness? Everybody (even those that claim otherwise) seek, long and desire to have that special someone in our lives that needs us and appreciates us for being in their lives. When you are blessed with that special someone, don't forget to let them know how much you appreciate them. Do something different for them. If you normally don't send your lady love flowers, do it. And for you ladies, men like gifts too.

For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of. What does your heart dream of? Are you touching it? Don't allow past disappointments or results stop you from going after that forgotten or laid aside dream. Go for it! You never know where life will led you as long as you keep living.

For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it. No one has control over you. You are not a puppet on a string. What God has for you is for you and nobody can stop you or take possession of what He has deemed to be yours. Don't allow an unseen enemy steal your joy. It's your life...claim it...own it!

For once in my life. It doesn't have to be only one time. However it does start with the first time. Make it happen! Whatever it is for you... make it happen!

For once in your life.

Love is best when shared.

2010-04-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

Recently I wrote a message on Facebook--Reader's Digest version--I wrote about showing love to those you may love and not waiting until it was too late for the person/or persons to feel it and be able to respond to it. Ironically no one responded to me on Facebook, but I received many e-mails instead. One follower of my blog (thank you Mr. Eric Dennis for your support and for giving me your permission to share your story) said that when he read my words he was in the midst of a twenty year argument with his oldest brother that he longed to settle. And reading my words and the subsequent events in his life really drove the point home.

Shortly after reading the posting and deciding to call his brother, he received a call from his sister-in-law requesting that he come visit his big brother before it was too late. His brother was dying from cancer that had spread from his liver to his brain in a matter of months. Now the sad part to all of that was that he didn't have a clue that his brother was even ill, let alone about to die. No one in his family--and they knew--bothered to inform him since everyone was aware of the bitterness shared between the two brothers. Eric rushed to be by his brother's side, but by time he arrived his big brother had expired.

So standing over the graveside after they lowered the casket into the ground he finally was able to talk to his brother and say the things that laid on his heart for all those years. The only problem with that as he said in his e-mail....it was a one-sided conversation.

I could go on and on about giving flowers to the living. But would it make a difference? Absolutely! Sometimes people need to hear, read or see certain things in an analogical kind of way for it to have any effort on them. It can make the pill of one's own actions a little easier to swallow.

Here's a fact--life can go by way too fast. Almost as if it's a large fully loaded semi plowing down a winding hill without brakes. During our lives we will (hopefully) encounter people that deserve and seek our love and some that will take advantage of it. For now we'll concentrate on those that we truly love. Be it family, friends, lovers or others. The greatest blessing-- I'm certain that we all can agree--that came from the heavens and is written about more than any other subject on the planet is love. Love is the beat of the heart. Without love the heart is nothing more than an organ.

To repeat myself, but it bears repeating. If you love someone let them know it through your actions and your words. As Gladys Knight said so eloquently at the end of her show my wife and I attended when a fan gave her flowers, "Thank you for the flowers and yes give them to me while I'm yet able to enjoy them."

Give your flowers of love to the living so they can enjoy it because standing over a graveside saying kind words might soothe the living--it does nothing for the deceased.

Promotional video for novel "Choices."

2010-02-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kd5BltzRnzQ

Please check out this youtube link as I promote my debut best selling novel, "Choices." I'm so humbled by the response that I've received from those that have read the book. Yes, I'm currently working on the sequel.

If you're looking for a good book as you relax in your favorite recliner or snuggle up under a warm blanket on a cold night, I proudly recommend you check out, "Choices."

My book is available at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com and even my website: www.wgranvillebrown.com

Thank you for making my debut novel such a success. May God bless your choices!

Time to embrace the new!

2010-01-07T11:47:00.000-08:00

2010. Two thousand ten. It just rolls off the tongue. Wow! A new year and the start of a new decade. As I was contemplating my first blog of this New Year and decade one word kept popping into my head.

That word was: new. New is defined as fresh, original and of a kind not seen before. Here’s another word that’s part of the definition; unfamiliar. I love it!
I’ll make this one short and sweet as I beseech all my loyal readers. Please treat 2010 as a fresh original one and a year that hasn’t been seen before. Embrace the fact that you may encounter some things that might seem unfamiliar to you. Truly and I mean truly live this year to its fullest.

I’m not being pie-in-the-sky silly, I’m simply saying that there is a flip side to everything. So for me, instead of dwelling on the negative side of life, I choose to embrace the positive.
Give positivity a shot and when you find yourself playing the ‘what if’ game, try ending that question with a positive instead of a negative. For example: “What if I lose my job this year?” Most would answer with every negative thought and fear that entered the mind. I think a better answer could be. “What if I lose my job this year?” The answer: “Since that could become a possibility I think that I’ll save a little extra each paycheck and maybe cut back on my careless spending. Not to mention I could start to research how I can start my own business. I’ve only been talking about that since high school.”

Get my point. I know you do. This is a new year not a continuation of last year. Don’t simply let your time of life be like a VCR with 12:00 blinking repeatedly. Change your time. It’s in your control to do so. Besides if you are in the same place, the same frame of mind, the same doldrums as you were in 2009; may I be so bold as to suggest…do something about it.

Happy Fresh and Original to you!

An ending creates a new beginning.

2009-12-15T12:53:00.000-08:00

2009 is almost in the history books. This year has seen many first, some last and hopefully some things we may never see again. But all in all, I must admit for me, it has been a very good year.

I was blessed with the release of my debut novel, "Choices." I celebrated my second wedding anniversary to the most wonderful, thoughtful, loving, caring and beautiful wife a man could ever hope to have. Life is good and God is better!

For my last post of 2009, I say thank you so much for supporting me. I pray that I've been a positive light in your life. And that my written words blessed you in a positive way. I leave you with this last thought from me for this year.

God has invited you to dinner. Nothing special, no need to get all dressed up. Not a big meal, just some fish, bread and wine. During the course of the meal, HE picks up a remote control and turns on a large screen television. HE says, "I'm going to play back your life up to this point."

Question....Up to this point in your life, have you lived a life that you could sit beside the Creator and at the end have HIM say to you, "Job well done, my child?"

We all fall short, but that doesn't mean that God isn't proud of us and HE certainly doesn't withhold HIS love. It's not about being perfect, it is about being perfected in the image of Christ as best we can living in a shell of flesh. Live...live and by all means...keep living. You never know where God will take you. Look at me...from just a dream of longing to be a writer to today, a published author with sales and working on another book as I'm writing this blog. 45 years in the making, but by the grace and mercy of the Everloving One...I did it and if you have a dream and you are willing to take a leap of faith...you can do it too.

Just because you didn't get to the top of the mountain by the end of this year, remember, a new year is just around the corner. So keep climbing, just over that next ledge is your purpose, your gift, your blessing, your abundance, your new life.... You get the point. Now get to climbing, greatness awaits.

Be bold in your encouragement!

2009-11-30T09:08:00.000-08:00

Be encouraged! No matter where you are and what you are doing right now, be encouraged. Victory is on its way! Don’t allow the breath of your imagination blow out the flame of your reality. Human beings are not puppets or computers. We were not programmed at the factory and stored only with data inputted by some unknown master programmer. We are children of the Living God! Be encouraged!

Are you down and out? Depressed? Caught up in addiction? Feeling as though no one cares? Be encouraged! God did not create you to be down trodden. Get up! Don’t you dare throw in the towel in the third round of a fifteen round fight. Keep ducking and dodging and keep swinging. Take the standing eight count, get up off the canvas. No weapon formed against you can prosper. Get a fight in your spirit. Be encouraged!

Don’t get mad with the results, be truthful with your decision making process. Lean not onto your own understanding. And for the love of God, who loved you from the start of time, stop wavering in even the weakest wind. Stand on His word and promises contained within. Be encouraged!

David looked up at that giant and you best believe he had some doubt. Daniel was surrounded by lions and you best believe he had some fear. Moses wandered the land for forty years and you best believe he got wary. But all three had a spirit that did not quit. They prayed and believed. Their faith was strong, even in the weakness of their physical being. And in the end, all three experienced victory. Be encouraged!

Surrounded by negative nouns—people, places or things. Remove yourself. In a dead-end job that barely pays the bills. Stop settling. You are greater right now than you have ever been. While you’re dwelling on the outside, God is living on the inside. And inside of you is abundant life. A seed of greatness was planted in you at birth. Over the course of your life it has started to blossom and right now—today—it is ready to bloom. That seed of greatness that God planted in you is now a full-fledged fruit. Of what kind, is between you and Him. But it’s there. It could be an apple of doctoring, an orange of engineering, or a banana of bank management. I don’t know. Only you and God know the identity of your fruit. Don’t leave this earth with that fruit still inside of you to rot in the ground. It has been said that the graveyard holds the most talent because of all the people that died without releasing theirs. As of today, you won’t be one of them. Your victory is at hand and your faith, belief and trust in God was not in vain.

No matter what you’re going through, what you have been through, the time is NOW. You have passed through. Claim it, shout it from the rooftop. Even in the eye of the storm and you can’t see your way out, proclaim that you have passed through. We serve a supernatural God. Don't give up, don't give in and don't quit. BE ENCOURAGED!

Defeat the bully...even if it's within.

2009-11-13T06:29:00.000-08:00

Recently in my Life Coaching Practice I worked with an individual that was dealing with some lingering effects of a childhood issue. This particular issue had led to a set of behaviors in adulthood that was hindering this person's ability to stand up for themselves in even the simplest matters of their life. Because of that there were missed opportunities professionally, socially and even in relationships. The issue...being the victim of a bully.

Since the beginning of mankind and maybe even further back than that, since it's reported that Lucifer was kicked out of heaven, there have been bullies. People that feel the need to physically, emotionally or verbally put others down in an attempt to lift themselves up. Prior to Cane actually killing Abel he demonstrated a tendency to be a bully. It's very possible that at some point in your life you may have encountered a bully. (I know I have) It could have come wrapped up in the form of a spouse, a parent, a sibling, a boss or a co-worker. Great for you if you haven't and shame on you if you have been or are currently that bully.

Bullying isn't a good thing. It doesn't show strength or even demonstrate toughness. It's a weakness that reveals the coward in that person's character. What exactly is a bully? It's someone that's habitually cruel or overbearing (to the negative), especially to those they may perceive to be smaller or weaker. I would even go further to say, even those the bully may feel is beneath them because of race, social or economic positioning or education. What does a bully do to others? They hurt, persecute or intimidate. How do they bully? By being discouraging and frightening with threats or a domineering manner.

There are things that can happen to a person that sticks with them way past the time that it occurred. A chance encounter on a crowded bus could lead to a change in someones life. There's really no telling or knowing. So when someone is bullied by another, even at a young age, it can leave a lasting affect on that person. As it had for my client.

Life Coaching isn't therapy. It doesn't deal with emotional or psychological issues, it confronts mindsets, paradigms and behavioral patterns that can hinder a person from living the life they truly want to lead. So in assisting my client, we didn't concentrate on the past, we dealt with the present and concentrated on the future.

Bullies come in different shapes and sizes, but when confronted and their power base (fear) is removed, they're nothing more than cowards, pure and simple. Become a victor, not a victim. God did not give us the spirit of fear and no weapon formed against us can prosper. Not even a bully.

Forgiveness...It's a beautiful thing!

2009-10-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

How many times have you asked someone to forgive you for something you may have done against them? Or how about asking for forgiveness even though you believed that you hadn't done anything wrong? Then again can you recall a time when someone asked you to forgive them?

Lets be honest at some point in our lives we are going to offend, hurt, or anger somebody. Just like no one gets out of life alive, no one will get through life without committing one or more of the three above mentioned offenses. And we won't live without having those same offenses rendered against us. Ofttimes it's not a purposeful endeavor. Things happen. While I'm not down playing hurting anyone or offending someone, it happens. And when it does we seek forgiveness. Call it whatever you like, but in the end it still comes back to the same thing.

Forgiveness is defined as: compassionate feelings that support a willingness to forgive as well as being typically defined as the process of concluding resentment, indignation or anger as a result of a perceived offense, difference or mistake, and ceasing to demand punishment or restitution. (That comes from Google.)

Now according to the Bible--another great source-- (I'm just saying) forgiveness is a free gift of God, that once someone seeks sincere repentance, that person's sins are forgiven and forgotten. Also there's no condemnation before God.

If we are to give any credence to Google or the Bible-- in particular-- doesn't it stand to reason that the ability to forgive is really something special. But sometimes it seems as though forgiveness is one of those things that applies only to the other guy. It's okay for us to ask someone to forgive us and expect them to do so, but what about when someone asks you to forgive them? Do you? Are you holding on to past hurts or offenses? Are you heavy laden with images in your mind and weight on your heart from yesterdays?

If so...how about giving to others the same gift that we ask God for and fully expect Him to deliver. Forgiveness. It's a beautiful thing!

Keepin it Real!

2009-10-02T07:38:00.000-07:00

I would like to share a poem that I wrote and published three years ago. I do not consider myself a poet, however these words jumped into my heart one night as I drove home after witnessing a young boy--couldn't have been older then ten or eleven years old--selling drugs on a corner.

Keepin it real as they say
Ask a young brotha in a casket as he lay
Peddlin dope for dough making a sista a hoe
Crack vial streets where children play
Drive by shootin every other day
Sexual desire desire lead young folk astray
Nine months later another youngin on the way
Being led to believe self-destruction is okay
Education put off one more day
Acting out life as if its a play
Rome wasn't built in just one day
Parents unite and keep the devil at bay
Do away with the myths that the TV say
Teach the youth to stay strong in spirit so they don't stray
That's keepin it real as they say

It's been said that it takes a village to raise a child. I would like to add, "It takes someone to care." Let's give our children a future. Don't write off our youth. Join the village.

Fear no more.

2009-09-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

Today marked one of the most humbling and most exhilarating days of my life. I had my first Canadian book signing at Coles Bookstore located in Square One Mall which is in Mississauga, Ontario. And I tell you I've never felt so vulnerable or invisible in my entire life. For the first hour and a half my very loving and supportive wife and I sat at the entrance of the store watching people go about their business without seemingly a care in the world. Fathers were pushing strollers, mothers were busy balancing plastic bags with one hand while trying to keep the little one or twos from running off. Some folks came into the bookstore and either looked over our heads or appeared to look right through us.

After a while my nerves, or should I say my ego kicked in and I was ready to pack it in. Then I remembered something my Grandmother use to say, "If you're going to worry don't pray and if you're going to pray don't worry." Suddenly a sense of peace came over me. Because the truth of the matter was that those folks didn't know me, nor were they coming to the mall to check out some unknown first time writer. But more importantly, prior to leaving our home, my wife and I had said a prayer. And in that prayer I asked God to allow my book to be a blessing to someone. Not to sign and sell a lot of books, but to be a blessing in someone's life.

Within what seemed mere minutes a woman walked up to the table and struck up a conversation. She asked many questions about the book. She kept picking it up and reading the back, putting it down and repeating the process over again. In asking the price of the book, I sensed that there was an interest however something was holding her back. I said, "Miss my I bless you with a copy on the condition that you read it and let me know what you think?" Quickly tears came into her eyes and she readily agreed. After signing the book and receiving a huge tight hug she walked off. Leaving me feeling real good I must say.

Again mere moments after the nice lady left, a friend of ours came by and that started the minor floodgate of people that came by to congratulate me, get a book, take a picture and help make this one of the best days of my life. God is indeed good!

At the risk of repeating myself, I must say again, "If God has placed a purpose in your life and you're allowing fear to stop you from fulfilling it, please turn on the light of faith and you'll see that fear does not exist. It's only a play of the shadows. God's light is much greater and brighter in your life. And where God gives a vision there is provision."

God bless all of my readers and may HE continue to bless your lives and your positive endeavors.

Some things stay the same.

2009-08-17T17:16:00.000-07:00

Today's society is an ever changing and evolving one to say the less. Technology has improved to the level where a lazy person can have an affair without leaving the comfort of their recliner. Simply click, chat, and tell lies..about how good you look and how tall you are, and how single (although your wife doesn't know that) you are--just looking for love with the help of the kind folks that allow you to pay for your cable, house phone, and Internet on the same bill. Oh... the uses for technology.

Here we live in a time where putting a man on the moon has been replaced by now we can can buy a seat on the shuttle. And to think that just forty years ago a Black woman was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus. Can I get a...whoa technology! Human beings have come so far that if your co-worker whom occupy the cubicle next to you is talking too loud and disturbing your "office time net surfing," all you have to do is...send them an e-mail. Think about it...your grandparents couldn't do that. Not unless you're related to the Jetsons. Man oh man. Who needs to worry about staying home by the phone waiting for your beloved to call? You have a phone in your purse, on your hip and even in your ear. If that's not enough and you don't want to hear his voice--send him a text message. And who said folks don't read anymore?

How about this one? People are now afforded the great opportunity to call a company and have a lifeless voice prompt them to push multiple numbers until another soul less voice says, "I'm sorry your call can not be completed at this time..." Oh... the wonders of technology. It's so good that cloning isn't a thing of science fiction, it's real, very real. Anyone looking to find themselves? Give it a few years, you might just run into yourself as you race for the space shuttle that will drop you off on Mars so you can watch the NBA's newest franchise. You haven't lived until you've seen a three foot green dude dunk a ball.

But, with all the changes in the world and the many new gadgets coming out almost daily, there's one thing that won't ever change. People still want, need and strongly desire to be loved and appreciated. So put down the remote, the interactive video game, the cell phone that does everything but your hair and go to your wife, husband, mother, father or whomever you may care for and remind them that no matter the changes in this world and the distance that they create...tell them how much you love and appreciate them.

Think again!

2009-08-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

Two elderly men sat side by side on a park bench. After some time had passed the shorter of the two turned to face the taller one. "Excuse me, sir," he said by way of gaining the other man's attention. "You and I have sat on this same bench, in this same park at the same time for over a month and yet we haven't formally introduced ourselves."

"I was just thinking the same thing," he responded with a smile. "My name is Sam and you are?"

Beaming he said, "My name is Max. Pleasure to meet you."

"Well, Max what brings you here each day?"

"I lost my wife about a month ago."

"Wow...small world," Sam replied. "And I lost my lady friend about the same time."

Immediately they felt like kindred spirits as they exchanged stories about their lives spent with the women they had loved and lost. "And now after forty years of marriage, I'm all alone," moaned Max.

"I know the feeling." Sam agreed. "I was with my lady love for thirty years."

"If I'm not being too personal. How come you guys never married?"

"Well...I wanted to but she refused each and every proposal I gave her."

"Really?"

"Yep," said Sam. "And on top of that I didn't mention this but we never shared a house."

"That is a little uncommon," Max concurred.

"Believe it or not, I only saw her on Thursday and Saturday nights."

"How come?" Max inquired.

"I'm a little ashamed to say," Sam said sheepishly.

"Ah...go head, I won't judge." Max was fully intrigued and couldn't wait to hear more.

"She was married to some loser that left her alone every Thursday and Saturaday night to play cards with his friends."

"What some guys will do," said Max. "I mean I played poker with the guys twice a week, but at least I spent time with my wife."

"You were a lucky man," said Sam. " At least you had a chance to marry the woman you loved."

Max felt sorry for Sam. "Hey pal...we might be old but as long as you're breathing healthy air there's still time to love again."

"Maybe you're right. Any way Max I won't be here tomorrow. I'm going to place flowers on my lady love's grave."

"I'm doing the same thing," Max said. "See you day after tomorrow."

The next day as Max approached his wife's gravesite, he noticed a familar figure standing over his wife's plot. Slowly the figure turned around. It was Sam. Max looked down and noticed the fresh flowers in the vase where he normally placed his own flowers. "Sam...what are you doing here?" he asked.

"I told you I was coming to place flowers at my lady love's grave," he answered wiping tears from his eyes.

"You're standing over my wife's grave."

"No I'm standing over my lady love's grave," he corrected. "See the nameplate says, Sarah Mitchell, my lady love's name."

"My wife's name was Sarah Mitchell and I'm Max Mitchell."

"What nights did you play poker?"

"Thursday and Saturaday."

The moral....next time you're sitting on a park bench and think you don't have anything in common with the person sitting next to you....think again!

Open Discussion: Fate and Destiny.

2009-06-29T17:14:00.000-07:00

The greatest joy that I receive in writing this blog is the feedback from the readers. Lately people have written to me about fate and destiny. So I thought it would be good to open up some dialogue about the two words.

Do you believe in fate and destiny? Would it surprise you to know that the two words share similar definitions? They both are defined as an event (or course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future. I'm certain that at some time you may have heard someone say that something or another was fate, and that something or another was a destiny. Sometimes the words are used interchangeably and at other times they are used as if they have separate meanings. How do you view the two words?

Let's explore a scenario and you give this some thought: If a person walks in front of an approaching car as he or she walks against the light and is struck down by the car...is it fate? Was it their destiny to be hit by that car on that street at that appointed time or was it simply their own carelessness that led to he or she being hit? In others words...their own fault. Or was it simply a case of "that was inevitable?" Talk about the mysteries of life.

Ponder that and let me know what you think. I look forward to hearing from you.

Do you know the secret?

2009-06-15T19:13:00.000-07:00

Upon walking into any bookstore, flipping through the TV channels, or surfing the Internet; you can find someone ready to share (drum roll, please) "The Secret to Life." Following is a public service reminder...thousands of years ago the secret to life was revealed in a little known book entitled...Bible. But I digress.

In today's uncertain society, many of us can be seen scratching our heads and wondering actually what to do, how to do it, and thinking about the necessity of doing it. Is there really a secret to life? Is life really that much of a mystery to most of us? Tell me, would I be considered presumptuous if I simply said, "Just maybe the real secret to life is to actually live it as if it's the only one you will ever have." Am I being too simplistic? Have we become so jaded to life that we're taking it for granted, or simply looking for easy answers to what has now become a complex question?

Knock, knock. Who's there?...ain't no...ain't no who?...Ain't no secrets to life except the one's you're keeping. (I know the grammar, but you get the point.) Secrets are for the CIA (or so I've heard) and not for people looking to live a life full of purpose, love, happiness, and good health. In my simple mind I think it's quite simple. You want to never work a day in your life...do a job/career that you're passionate about. You want to be loved...give love to yourself, because a person that love themselves is much better equipped to love someone else. You want to be happy...stop doing things that bring unhappiness into your life. You want to lose weight and get in good physical shape...stop feasting on foods without any nutritional value whatsoever and get off the couch and do some form of exercise. Does any of that sound like secrecy?

Please don't get me wrong. I not trying to be facetious, I just believe that the "KISS" (keep it simple sweetheart) method of life applies to most things quite favorably. And I'm certainly not knocking authors of self-help books. I read them all the time. Everything from my favorite, "Think and Grow Rich" to "The Secret." I fully believe that they serve a great purpose and a help to those that take the time to read them. However I would be remiss if I didn't point out the fact that it does take more than reading to make a difference in your life. There isn't a book out there, not even the Bible, that can truly lead someone to self-improvement if they don't apply the words, principles and the tools provided to their daily life. Reading may be fundamental, but applying what we have read can be monumental.

Update and words of encouragement.

2009-06-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

I want to take this time to thank all you that read this blog (again, because I don't take that for granted) as well as all of you that have e-mailed me and requested an update on my recently released debut novel, "Choices." Sales have exceeded my expectations and the response to say the least has been humbling. Just this Monday 1 June 2009, I was interviewed on 1540 WNWR a radio talk show out of Philadelphia hosted by Janet Powell-Dailey. And the feedback from that show has been tremendous as well.

I sincerely hope that the words contained in this blog from its conception to now can encourage the discouraged, inspire the uninspired, give hope to the hopeless, and an awakening to a slumbered dreamer. Remember...a dream is still a dream, a goal is still a goal and aspiration is still aspiration even if it hasn't come to fruition as of yet. All it takes is pulling it out of the dark, hidden place where that dream, goal or aspiration is waiting to become more than a seed, it wants to become the fruit that feeds a nation.

So my friends, if you have a dream, a goal, or aspirations; please let my words of encouragement speak to the part of the body that has ears to hear. DON'T ALLOW AGE, GENDER, WELL-MEANING FAMILY OR FRIENDS, LOCATION, EDUCATION OR LACK THEREOF, OR ANYTHING ELSE, stop you from fulfilling your GOD-GIVEN PURPOSE.

Remember the story of the three men that were given talents and how each handled theirs. Who knows, sitting in front of their computer screen right now could very well be the next great undiscovered artist, or maybe the person that really discovers the cure for cancer. But until you start to live that dream, go after that goal or aspire to do what you really want to do in life, your talent will lay dormant and never have the chance to blossom.

As the old saying goes, "Nothing beats a failure but a try." I tried and no matter what happens after this, no one nor anything can take away the fact that I fulfilled a life-long dream and achieved a goal and became what I've aspired to become...a writer with a published book.

You can do it too. One day I want to receive an e-mail from one of you reading this that stepped out on faith and awakened the dream, surpassed the goal and you are aspiring to inspire others with your accomplishments. We all have a story to tell. Be your own biographer. I'm waiting to read it.

Food for thought.

2009-05-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

A big game hunter travelled to Africa in the hope of bagging a lion. After many days in the jungle he came across a large, magnificent male lying under a tree. Instantly the hunter readied his rifle to fire, when suddenly he changed his mind. Instead of shooting the lion with a deadly round, he shot the lion with a tranquilizer and decided to take the lion home with him to train.

Upon returning home he caged the ferocious beast. Every time the hunter came to feed the lion, it snarled, growled and leaped against the bars in an attempt to attack. After some time had passed and the lion began to recognize the hunter, the lion would come up to the front of the cage and purr almost like a house cat. He even allowed the hunter to pet him.

One day the hunter decided to enter the cage. Immediately upon doing so the lion attacked and killed the hunter. The lesson to the story: The hunter went against his instinct and the lion did not.

Instinct is defined as an inborn pattern of behavior often responsive to specific stimuli. To break it down even further, allow me to simplify our instincts as that something inside of us that allows us to know better. Generally things learned over time of course. For example, a child burns his hand by placing it on a hot oven, instinctively that child knows (after the fact) that touching a hot oven can lead to pain. Now if that same child continues to touch a hot oven and gets burnt then we're talking about another set of issues where you may need to get that child some help.

Oftentimes it may seem like we as adults need some help when we repeatedly do things that goes against our instinct. How often do you go against your instinct? How many times have you been in a situation where in hindsight you look back and say, "I should have gone with my first mind. I know better than that." I know I have. Can I get a witness?! It happens to all of us at some point in time. Maybe or should I should hopefully, it wasn't in a life and death situation like the hunter. But, we have been in situations that have greatly and even adversely affected our lives, marriages, relationships, finances, and the list goes on and on. Situations where we go against our instinct.

As adults we should know better and use our instincts better. Better in regards to? That's for you to decide. I simply wanted to give you...cliche forthcoming...food for thought.

Do you know "why?"

2009-05-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

A husband of many years walked into the kitchen and noticed that his wife was making corn bread in a frying pan. He asked her why did she make corn bread that way. She responded because her mother did it that way. Curious he went to his mother-in-law and asked her why did she make corn bread in a frying pan. She responded because her mother did it that way. Even more curious he went in search of the grandmother and asked her why she made corn bread in a frying pan and she responded, "Because we didn't have an oven."

Isn't it kind of amusing that we can watch others do things and without even fully understanding why, we may repeat those same habits, beliefs or ideas in our own lives. We simply do it, because that's how it was always done. We don't question the "why" or even if it makes good sense in some cases. If it was good enough for them, then.... But, was it really good enough for them, or did they also fall into the mindset of, "Repeated Generational Behavior."

In the above anecdote, the "why" belonged to the grandmother. She had a good reason for doing what she did and a clear understanding of why she did it. Through observation, the daughter and the mother repeated the behavior without questioning the validity of the behavior. From one watching the other, over time that behavior became one that was repeated from one generation to the next.

Now it would be great if all repeated behavioral patterns were as simple and tasty as corn bread. However in most cases it's not. Many of us go through life repeating behavior that we don't truly understand. You too may be making corn bread in a frying pan. Not that it's anything wrong with doing so, however would it be a bad thing to take the time to find out, "why?" Not all behavioral patterns were meant to be nor should they be repeated.

Doesn't it make sense to know why you take the time and energy to do something other than to simply go through life doing things just because someone else did it that way?

Excerpt from recently released debut novel: Choices

2009-05-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

The following is an excerpt from my debut novel: Choices.

Prologue

The meeting took place in an out-of-the-way nondescript motel so deep in no-man’s land, the ancient woman who checked them in quickly forgot doing so.
“Are you kidding me? Why are we meeting in a dump like this?”
“A place is more than its appearance.”
“Well this place appears to be a dump.”
“You have always failed to appreciate the beauty of what I’ve created.”
“Ha ha. Let’s not forget you also created the flip side where I prosper.”
“There once was a man who threw a gold coin into the air with the intention of allowing the side it landed on determine his fate.”
“What in the…”
“Patience my son.”
Immediately a sense of peace and light filled the dim, dingy lit room.
“My fault, please continue.”
“Momentarily he was distracted and took his eyes off the descending gold coin. It bounced off his outstretched palm and rolled through a crack in the floor, lost forever.”
“So what happened?”
“I don’t know. Someone changed the channel.”
“Oh so you got jokes. And people think you don’t have a sense of humor.”
“Laughter is medicine for the soul, my son.”
“Yes it is. Where I reside we laugh often at how easy our job has become. In days gone by it was a little more difficult to get someone to denounce you; now let them miss the last digit on a lottery ticket after they prayed for a winner and bam. I have a new convert.”
“You have always underestimated the faith of my children.”
“With all due respect, I think you overestimate the faith of your children.”
“An argument for another time. I see you have been quite busy lately.”
“We all have our cross to bear. No pun intended.”
“No offense taken, my son. Now have you considered my faithful servants?”
“Ah, yes the young married couple in Philadelphia. I’ve been keeping track of them for some time, especially since the husband has stopped attending church regularly. I feel that they are ripe for the picking though you have blessed them greatly. However, as I am notorious for saying, remove your hedge of protection from them and they will surely curse you.”
“Behold all they have in is your power. Only do not touch them.”
“Including their relationship?”
“Yes.”
“Why am I dealing with them as one?”
“Because what I have put together let no man divide.”
“Consider it done. I will prove to you that the faith you have in your people is far greater than the faith they have in you.”

Living life until the end.

2009-05-11T17:06:00.000-07:00

To begin, I would like to take the time to thank everyone that reads this blog and has waited patiently for me to write another. Yes, it has been some time since my last entry. The reason: I was wrapping up the last touches to my debut novel and needless to say, that took up a lot of my time. But I'm very proud to report that as of 27 April 2009, my novel "Choices" has been published and is now available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble. com, etc. I'm also proud to report that I've actually sold a few copies.

That brings me to the topic of this weeks blog. Just five short years ago, I sat down at my computer to write. Nothing came. My life was in shambles. I was greatly depressed and felt like a failure and a fraud. Why you might ask? Because my marriage of eighteen years was over. I was losing my family. My wife informed me that she wasn't happy and didn't want to be married anymore. Nothing I said or did could change her mind. We were over! After months of her planning her new life (without me) her and I sat down with our children and gave them the news. I must admit, after that encounter the rest is a blur. I really don't have great recall over what transpired next as far as time goes. I just know that at some point she moved out and my kids went with her. Shortly thereafter I moved into a room in a friends home with a day bed, tiny microwave and tiny fridge. Not that I couldn't afford better digs, I guess in retrospect, I was punishing myself. Besides did I have the right to live lavishly as a failed husband and a terrible father. I know that I wasn't those things in my heart, but that didn't stop me from feeling that way nonetheless.

You may ask, why am I sharing this with you? Because someone, somewhere will read this. Maybe a man or even a woman and they are sitting just like me in front of a computer screen feeling like they aren't worth two plum nickles because another person stopped loving them. They might feel like a complete failure and a fraud. (Just like I did.) But I'm living proof that all you have to do is keep living and believing in God Almighty and HE will deliver you from the evil. God has a purpose for all of our lives. (Whether you believe it or not.) By staying rooted in faith, even when everything looks fake. I tell you my friends, HE will come through.

Five years later, I sit in front of another computer screen, happier than I've ever been in my entire life. I'm remarried to a woman that loves my dirty socks, I have a great career, recently returned from a trip to India and Dubai (two places I've never visited before) and I've fulfilled a life-long dream of becoming a writer. And guess what? My relationship with my kids is rock solid. They don't see me as a failure or a fraud.

Life may not always go as we would like it to. Life will give us success and failure. Life will pick up up and drop us down. Life will wear some of us out. Life may be too short. Regardless of all that and more....keep living, keep loving and live life until the end.

Give Him a chance.

2008-11-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

Is it one man's responsibility to save the world? Even with all the power that Superman possesed, bad things still happened all over the planet. So if Superman, Batman and even Spiderman couldn't save the world from itself, is it fair for everyone to place that type of pressure on the newly elected President of the United States?

Not even in office as of this writing and the media (print and television) along with people on the streets are already putting in their request. People of color are saying he should do more for those that look like him. While others are afraid he won't do for them.

Here's a suggestion. How about we allow the man to be sworn in, pick his cabinet and move into the White House, maybe take a nap, pick out his superhero suit and cape colors before we ask him to fix in one day the ills of the past eight years.

Barack Obama is the President of the United States. He just so happens to have a darker pigmentation than those that previously occupied the position. While that may give some folks a reason to cheer, I think it's more important that those that voted decided he was the one to bring change to a troubled country. Because regardless of your skin tone, if you live in the United States, you are an American and the President represents the people of America and not the color of the country.

Please join me and my family as we pray daily for this newly elected leader. God knows he is going to need it.

The wait is almost over!

2008-10-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

It is with great pride, oh who am I kidding. I'm so excited if I was a puppy I would be wetting the carpet. I just received an e-mail from my editor telling me that in two short days she will have completed her editing efforts on....my manuscript.

That's right, my long-awaited debut novel is alive and kicking. This has been a labor of love, to borrow a cliche. My life-long dream has been to become a published author. Not a famous one, nor a rich one, simply a published one.

A couple of years ago I had a poem published (didn't earn a dime) and in the writer's bio I wrote the following: To me, a writer's words are his or her voice. There is no greater gift from the LORD than being able to have one's voice heard and received with power and impact on people's lives that can lead to transformation of their mind, body, soul and ultimately their lives. If anyone listens to my voice and it has power, impact and the ability to transform, it's not of me it is of the LORD. I will continue to have a voice, and I pray someone will listen.

This manuscript is 45 years in the making. I've been writing since I learned how but, life, marriage, kids, work and a bunch of other excuses always got in the way of me completing a manuscript. Then I decided that I would wake up my slumbering dream and give it the life that it deserved. Because a dream is still a dream, no matter the age of the person or the dream. So yes at this stage it hasn't been published yet, however that is a mere formality. I'm going to self-publish my novel and use the skills I've acquired over the years in sales and marketing and present "my dream" to the world.

I believe that GOD blessed me with the ability to write and that in doing HIS purpose, my dream may inspire someone else to awaken their own.

I will keep you updated on my progress in putting my voice into print. Dream my friends, live my brothers and sisters and in doing so, always give GOD the glory in your story.

Tool or Weapon?

2008-09-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

In the sixties the Supremes sang, "Stop in the name of love before you break my heart." If you listen closely you may hear the Supreme Being singing, "Stop using My Word as a weapon rather than a tool of love before you break my heart."

It is widely believed by many folks, myself included that the Bible was written for specific purposes other than simply a historical record. My strongest belief lies in the thought that every book of the Bible starting with Genesis and ending with Revelations draws on an implication of life that is applicable to the teachings contained within. Meaning that from the teachings in the Bible one can apply its words and meanings to any present day issue they may face whether or not it's a negative or positive one. To further clarify the obvious what I'm stating is: the answers are in the book.

Having said all that it still baffles me why so many people throughout the times have used "The Greatest Story Ever Told" as a weapon of choice rather than its full intended value as a tool. Tools that can and should be used to build up not destroy and tear down.

When you are in need and dealing with issues that come from living pick up your Bible and read as well as study the scripture that relates to your particular circumstance and I ensure you the answer/solution is written within, all you have to do is invest the time.

Going up against a giant, read about David, having problems with your faith, read about Job, think you're having a bad day, read about Jesus and the day he was slain for the sins of the world.

Contained in the Bible are tools that will guide, teach and lead anyone that takes the time to pick it up, open the cover and READ.

Introduction of a first-time blogger.

2008-09-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

As an aspiring author I have often had this question posed to me. "How come you don't write a blog?" To be totally honest with you I didn't have a clue about blogging. I had never read one nor did I know anyone that had written a blog. So of course my answer was pretty consistent. I said, "I've never given it any thought."

However the more the question was presented to me the more thought I began to give to looking into blogging. And look I did. I googled and read page after page about blogging, blogging websites, the pros and the cons of writing a blog and reading other folk's blogs. Finally I made up my mind. I too would participate in the wonderful world of blogging and become a blogger.

So with that long-winded dissertion out of the way allow me to give a brief insight to what one can expect from me when they take time out of their busy day to read my blog. I will be dealing with issues of taking the Word of GOD and applying it to our daily lives. I want to deal with issues that are whispered about in the church and give a loud voice to them. This forum will not be one that bashes any religion, denominations or preachers. I will simply give my opinions to issues that I have dealt with over my 40+ years of life as well as living a life centered on spiritual values, beliefs and standards that may have grown over the years but, they always remained rooted and grounded in one fundamental belief and that is simply that, "In the beginning GOD created the heavens and the earth."

If a person has a problem with that then every word that follows it probably doesn't make much sense. I hope that anyone that takes the time to read my future blogs can be inspired, helped and is given food for thought that will feed the brain and spirit with power and impact that will ultimately lead to transformation of the mind, body, soul and life.

As I sign off may the GOOD LORD keep you in HIS grace, shower you with HIS mercy and bless you with HIS everlasting love!