Stanice's Open Mic

Stanice Anderson is... Walkin' On Water When The Ground Ain't Enuf: A One-Woman Show

2007-11-24T12:02:00.001-05:00

For Booking information contact Mike Tucker at 202-487-6453 or mike@district51.net

Author's Rebound From Drugs Inspires Others

2007-05-30T00:15:00.000-04:00

The article, Laurel Author's Rebound From Drugs Inspires Others, written by Raymond Lane, is in The Washington Post-owned newspaper, The Gazette. There are a few corrections (like Anacostia where I grew up is in Washington, DC and my father worked for the DC and Federal Governments his entire career; including as a DC City Councilman). Bottom line, the heart of my story is in tack. Also, I thank God for the testimonies I'm living through and the doors He opens to share them with others.

To read the Gazette article go to:

Gazette Article (opens new browser) http://www.gazette.net/stories/052407/entenew144404_32381.shtml

By the way, mark your calendars and purchase your tickets if you're in the area and share this with others, if you are not, The Black Women Playwrights' Group 18th Annual Staged Reading, TEXTURES. June 18th and 19th event at The Studio Theatre at 1501- 14th Street, NW in Washington, DC, will feature scenes from my one-woman show, Walkin' On Water When The Ground Ain't Enuf, along with scenes from five other selected plays by BWPG members: Betty Buttram, e. christi cunningham, Louise V. Gray, Debbie Minter Jackson, and Merrill Jones. Our celebrity host is Actor and Playwright Sheryl Lee Ralph (Moesha's TV mom and Deena in the original DreamGirls on Broadway).
For Tickets & Details Black Women Playwrights' Group (opens new browser) www.blackwomenplayrights.org

May God's favor continue to run you down,
Stanice Anderson, Author, Inspirational Speaker and Playwright;

Booking Agent: Leris Bernard, leris@lgbprod.com, (202) 234-0312

www.stanice.com (opens new browser)

Faith-Lift with Stanice: The Podcast (mini-messages; also on iTunes)
I Say A Prayer For Me: One Woman's Life of Faith and Triumph
(Walk Worthy Press/Warner Books)

Click cover for Chapter One

Article re: Patrice Gaines, My Mentor --Wanted: Women ready to renew their lives

2007-02-20T12:21:00.000-05:00

BoomerGirl.com: Wanted: Women ready to renew their lives

On a personal note, I feel like sharing that this article is about my good friend, writing/book/publishing-world mentor, Patrice Gaines. She is the friend who forwarded my Food for the Spirit email life-stories series, to her then-literary agent, Denise Stinson, who in-turn contacted me and thus began the life of my first book, I SAY A PRAYER FOR ME: One Woman's Life of Faith and Triumph, with a major publishing house, Walk Worthy Press/Warner Books. Change is is possible. I am a witness. I was a heroin addict but God stepped in and extacted me from a hopeless existence, gave me purpose, resurrected my dreams, and put people like Patrice in my life to help me make the transition to His thrilling plans for my life. I love her and now that you've read this article too, you understand see why I thank God for allowing our paths to intersect. She's a stunningly beautifully woman with an equally stunningly beautiful spirit!

Praise Report from Rodney Abney

2006-12-22T15:05:00.000-05:00

My Cardiac Catheterization tests were negative. All my arteries are open and flowing. My valves and chambers are all working good. There is nothing wrong with my heart. I watched the tests on a television monitor and personally saw my heart functioning. My next test will be to check my pulmonary functions (lungs) to find a reason for my shortness of breath. I am really sort of at a loss for words today; I am happy. All I can say is I believe in miracles and the power of prayer. I 'thank you" for your prayers. And I say to You, "Thank GOD" at all times. I have thanked HIM for this!!!!

Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing by Tee C. Royal

2006-12-15T14:49:00.000-05:00

Scandal Can You Handle? by Ebony Evans

2006-12-14T16:18:00.000-05:00

This is an past writing student, Sharon Evans', daughter's PROMOTIONAL CLIP FOR UPCOMING CELEBRITY GOSSIP SHOW HOSTED BY EBONY EVANS, Scandle Can You Handle?

Guest Poet, Derrick Lamont Boone

2006-11-20T22:00:00.000-05:00

Another Day of Loneliness
When I look out the window to a
day of darkness. I feel no embrace
from behind to comfort the emptiness
from within. Lord? I pray, where is mine
devine mate, is it the angel you sent
to watch over me. Love come and vanish
just like the mist on this dark day.
Is it just that I teach a aching
heart, but my heart is still empty.
Because loneliness is still here.

Still looking out the window and
remembering all that has came in
your life and left. Wondering what
was the purpose of the experience.
Because I'm still lonely with nobody
beside me. The tears I cry is the love
I want, but when It falls , It has no
substance for my love to appear in a
nature form. Until then another day of
loneliness.
Derrick Lamont Boone
Copyright ©2006 Derrick Lamont Boone

Water Stand Still for me
Can you stand still for me, so I can follow
your flow. I would like to know where you
come from and where you are going. I see
the moonlight glow off of you, I see the
blue sky reflect on you. But I don't see
myself. So water stand still for me. So I
can see myself on you. You are the element that
is essential to life. You are a part of me,
sometimes you are calm, but you still flow.
Sometime you are ruff, but you still flow.
You are like the foundation of life.
Everything you do is like life itself. You
never flow the same, there always something
different about you. So water stand still
for me. So I can put life on hold, so I can
follow your flow. How deep does your water
go, is it as deep as the pain in my soul.
Only if I can be like you, when you flow to
your destiny. So I ask you? Water stand
still for me. So I can find my destiny.
Derrick Lamont Boone
Copyright ©2006 Derrick Lamont Boone

Blu Sapphire L.L.C

Testimony: Princess Carroll Ayo Durodola

2006-11-19T14:07:00.000-05:00

I HAVE A TESTIMONY!!!

It was a Tuesday morning, as I drove along George Washington Parkway on my way to work in Virginia.

SCREEEEECH! The blue taxi cab next to me jammed on his brakes until smoke came up from the tires. I thought he was going to hit the car in front of him, but all of a sudden his right tire turned towards me! BAM!!! He got me! And…BANG!!! My car hit the stone wall of the parkway and flipped over the wall. I felt myself careen down the wooded cliffs like a rocket, towards the Potomac River, thousands of feet below.

“Well this is it. This must be the way I’m going to die.” I could hear and see the trees and bushes hitting the sides of the car as it crashed through the woods. I didn’t feel any pain and calmly thought to myself, “Well, I’m ready for heaven, if it’s ready for me!”

All of a sudden the car stopped. When I realized I was alive, I looked up through my open sun roof towards what I thought was the road and seeing a man walking along, looking frantic; I yelled, “HELP!” He looked down. “She’s here!” “We’re coming!” he said. And half a dozen men spilled over the crest of the hill. They pulled me out through the sun roof.

They helped me to the top of the hill and I collapsed on the stone wall. Around me I heard people praising God and I felt so at home with these fellow praisers that, with my last ounce of strength, I raised my holy hand to heaven and joined them in worshipping this Father God, for getting me out of that alive!

Praise be to the Lord! It’s as if God wanted people to praise Him more. This did it. Join in!

Love,
Princess Carroll Ayo Durodola

-----------------------
HRH Princess Carroll Ayo Durodola
Author, Storyteller & Education Consultant
703-975-3385
www.PrincessAyo.com
PUBLICATIONS
Tunde, The Little Nigerian Prince
Tunde, The Little Nigerian Prince & the Soldier Ants
Yoruba Language for Children
Ojumiri & Bra Baboon Coloring Book & audiotape
The Art of Storytelling (Workshop)
How Do I Know I Love Myself (Workshop)
The Ancient Healing Art of African Storytelling (Workshop)
The African Village School Program (African School Simulation)
Africa's Vision Network (T.V. Show)

“Angel With Crooked Feet” by Anthony V. Sarjant, Ph.D.

2006-11-06T23:39:00.000-05:00

“Angel With Crooked Feet” is the inspiring story of the life of Tony Sarjant, born with a club foot to a mother who didn’t want him. He spent the first ten years of his life in and out of hospitals before his pre-teen life of petty crime landed him in a detention center for boys where he was sexually assaulted for years.

As a teenager he discovered the dark world of the occult, a world he fully embraced as a young man. His first marriage seemed to be the start of a new, happier life but after the births of his daughter and son he learned his wife was having an affair and that she was still married to another man! After his marriage ended, Tony’s life dissolved into years of drifting back and forth across Europe, punctuated by heavy drinking and several attempts at suicide, including the last one, which almost succeeded.

Not long after, when he in his late 30s, he met the woman who would change his life, Denise, now his wife of more than 20 years. Through Denise, Tony’s life was saved by the power of real love, the power of God. And through more trials, including a prison term and a crash that left him helpless, he found his purpose in life. “I know we can make a difference in the lives of hurting children,” Tony says, “no matter how old they are.”

Anthony V. Sarjant, Ph.D., is an innovative counselor and an ordained minister. He currently is a counselor with the nationally-acclaimed Rimrock Foundation in Billings, Montana. He previously developed and served as Director of T.E.A.M. Mentoring program for children of incarcerated parents in Billings

Tony Sarjant and his wife Denise live in Billings, Montana. They are the parents of two grown sons, Christopher and Andrew.

CONTACT:
Anthony V. Sarjant, Ph.D.
4332 Phillip Street
Billings, MT 59101
801-865-1154
tonys@angelwithcrookedfeet.org
www.angelwithcrookedfeet.org

Dr. Sarjant is available for interviews and speaking engagements.

From Pain to Promise #3 by Minister Karen Anderson

2006-11-01T07:50:00.000-05:00

I DO
I married at 20 running from a bad relationship with my mother as a result of not telling her I was pregnant. My cousin who lived in New York at the time introduced me to my first husband. He was Catholic, I was a Christian, excuse me, a backslider. I had stopped going to church. He still lived at home with his mother; he hid me in his room and told his mother I was there. She brought me towels to take a shower. I lived with a man before marriage that I did not get a chance to know, or confirm that he was who God intended for me to marry. We lived in his mother’s house with his step-father and brother the first two years of marriage. A mama’s boy! We were married for 12 years. I couldn’t take the immaturity; something was definitely missing. He was not mature enough to give me the attention I desired, so I looked for attention in other places. Towards the end of the marriage, we purchased a home together; his mother was the real estate broker. He kicked me out of the home, called me b’s, and scratched my car while it was parked in the driveway. The next thing I know I am getting subpoenaed to appear in court. He was seeking full custody of our daughter, it didn’t happen, but I do pay child support. Talk about a financial set back. I ended up living with my pastor and his wife, (who I called Mom & Dad) before moving into a studio apartment, no furniture, I slept on the floor. I ate cereal for dinner.

© 2006, Minister Karen Anderson, Pelham, New York.

STANICE NOTE: God brought us a young writer who I'm featuring as a guest columnist on my blog, Stanice's Open Mic , which is set aside for YOUR talents and testimonies. Her name is Minister Karen Anderson from Pelham, New York. She is a PK (Preacher's Kid) with a TESTIMONY and willing to share it with us. Her third installment is I DO. Her column will appear for at least the next four Wednesdays. If you have comments please leave them, I'm sure your feedback will bless her.

From Pain to Promise #2 by Minister Karen Anderson

2006-10-25T00:03:00.000-04:00

A MOTHERLESS CHILD

Here comes the turn! Once I graduated from high school, my plan was to go to college and major in advertising. No husband, no kids, just me working in Manhattan , making money, calling the shots. Months before I graduated high school, I was raped by someone I briefly dated. Nothing serious. He lost his temper one day, he became angry, and RAPED me. In the dorm room, he threw me on the bed, ripped my clothes off. My hands were bound, and he was yelling for me to shut-up, spitting in my face. I was afraid, I didn’t call the police or tell my father for that matter. My stepmother’s father had just died, who could I tell, I wanted to run away, I needed to be held, I was scared as hell. In June 1987, I graduated high school, moved back to New York with my mom. We sent out applications to various colleges. Virginia State University accepts my application, wow shopping for college. Putting hot sauce on pads so my mother would think I was getting my period. I was in college going to classes, PREGNANT! No prenatal, nothing! My son was born in November 1987 on Thanksgiving Day. I prayed and asked God for a healthy baby, ten fingers and ten toes. He weighed in at 8.0 pounds. Healthy and a head full of hair. My mother was devastated. Brokenhearted, she made me apologize, everyday, not because I didn’t tell her I was pregnant, but because she had to pay for my college tuition as I was not eligible for financial aid. I could have died on the delivery table, I was not looking for sympathy, but for my mother to understand that I just had a baby, and I was an emotional wreck. Postpartum was kicking my butt.

Fortunately, we were able to contact the father and I agreed for his mother to raise my son in Indiana as I was not ready to be a mother. I am encouraged to let you know that my son, Jonathan and I have been in constant contact…he was not a mistake, but a blessing to be born.

© 2006, Minister Karen Anderson, Pelham, New York.

STANICE NOTE: God brought us a young writer who I'm featuring as a guest columnist on my blog, Stanice's Open Mic , which is set aside for YOUR talents and testimonies. Her name is Minister Karen Anderson from Pelham, New York. She is a PK (Preacher's Kid) with a TESTIMONY and willing to share it with us. Her second installment is A MOTHERLESS CHILD. Her column will appear for at least the next five Wednesdays. If you have comments please leave them, I'm sure your feedback will bless her.

The Writing Life: Let's Talk About Book Proposals

2006-10-24T23:41:00.000-04:00

The Writing Life: Let's Talk About Book Proposals

From Pain to Promise #1 by Minister Karen Anderson

2006-10-17T03:00:00.000-04:00

WHERE IS MY DADDY?

I want to share with you, or someone in the house of God who may be hurting, who is being abused, a young woman who has had a baby out of wedlock, a teenage girl who is pregnant and afraid to tell her parents, or a husband and wife who have outlived their honeymoon, those who are just emotionally busted, but still come to church. What I have just said, I have lived myself. I am the daughter of a preacher, a PK in every aspect of the word. Our house was the parsonage, right next door to the church. I woke up to church, went to sleep to church, school was church, BTU, Congress, conventions…all the while, lost! I did the choir thing, usher thing, folding church programs, ironing my father’s handkerchiefs; I was on duty 24/7; where did my childhood go? My father’s job was to the church, but what about me? My mother abandoned me and my two brothers, because she was on the run, but running from what? Here was a full-time pastor, he was always on call, plus he had a full-time job. I didn’t have my father’s time. I grew up searching for fatherly attention, even in relationships I was looking for my father. Daddy where are you? Pain!

© 2006, Minister Karen Anderson, Pelham, New York.

STANICE NOTE: God brought us a young writer who I'm featuring as a guest columnist on my blog, Stanice's Open Mic , which is set aside for YOUR talents and testimonies. Her name is Minister Karen Anderson from Pelham, New York. She is a PK (Preacher's Kid) with a TESTIMONY and willing to share it with us. Her first installment is Where is My Daddy? I can relate, I'm a PD (Politician's Daughter). Her column will appear for at least the next six Wednesdays. If you have comments please leave them, I'm sure your feedback will bless her.

Domestic Violence Empowerment Prayer Breakfast

2006-09-27T10:35:00.000-04:00

Sisters4Sisters, Inc lovingly invites to join us for a Life Changing Breakfast you will NEVER forget! Silent Tears- No More * Domestic Violence Empowerment Prayer Breakfast...An End of an Epidemic-The Beginning of Divine Healing & Restoration.

Please join Sisters4Sisters, Inc. as we Recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In honor of those who have Survived and in memory of millions who have been Killed, we are hosting a Powerful Prayer & Empowerment Breakfast. Do you know a Woman Suffering in Silence? A Sister who wonders how can he say he loves God but beats me still? A Woman who questions if God still Hears her Tears ? Featuring Special Guests:

*Nationally recognized Domestic Violence Advocate, Evangelist and Author- Sister Artina Todd Norris (Pictured)
*Psalmist- National Recording Artist Lisa Gilliam
*Ministry in Dance-Creative Praise
Soul Stirring Testimonies...and More

Survivors Speak & Praise
This is a Celebration of Life and Restoration you don't want to Miss! Invite Everyone you Know (Men are Welcomed) including Victims, Supporters, and those whom they Love even when they don't Love Themselves.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 28, 2006
8:00 am- 11:00 am (Doors Open 7:00 am)
Martins Crosswinds- Greenbelt, Maryland

Buy Ticket: $25.00 USD

www.sisters4sisters.com

Did you Know a Woman Suffering in Silence?

Domestic Violence occurs in an estimated 4 million intimate relationships each year.
It is one of the most important health problems in our country
The Surgeon General of the US reports that domestic violence causes more injury to adult women than Cancer, Heart Attacks, or Strokes
FBI statistics point out that a Woman is battered every 15-18 seconds in the U.S.
Approximately one third of female murder victims in the US are killed by their husbands or boyfriends.

Come Out Celebrate and Support this Dynamic Movement

Sisters4Sisters, Inc.
Together we Can Make a Difference...One Sister at a Time

-----------
Proceeds from this Breakfast will benefit- LOVE, Leave Out Violence Everyday. A Domestic Violence Awareness & Prevention Campaign & The Family Crisis Center of Prince Georges County.

Caribbean RIDDIMZ tomorrow "September to Remember"

2006-09-20T17:35:00.000-04:00

My Friend, Peppy's Event: Please support her. She's been so kind to me.

Cool People:

"Do you remember, the 21st night of September. Love was changing the minds of pretenders while chasing the clouds away. Our hearts were ringing, in the key that our souls were singing. As we danced in the night. Remember how the stars stole the night away". Earth Wind and Fire

The Spot: Zanzibar on the Waterfront - Sky Club (www.zanzibar-otw.com)
700 Water Street, SW, (DC Wharf area)

The Date: TOMORROW - Thursday, September 21

Jumpoff: 6pm

Stars who will steal the night away: Reign, The Poetry Man, and Nferno

Music: DJ Jah Prince
Extras: Peppy's and all Virgo birthday celebration
Food: Free between 7-8pm, and we might feel generous and extend it to 9pm

Door: $10

Outfit: Dress To impress...no athletic wear, hats, or sneakers
Shut Down: 1am

Online flyer:

Please note that the release of the highly anticipated "SHOTTAS" has been pushed back until November 3. Please do not be disheartened...all it means is that we have more time to promote it, and get the theatres packed when it drops. Visit www.myspace.com/shottasthemovie for updates.

Peace and blessings,
Rosie "Peppy" Parke
Creative Director/PR & Event Manager
Caribbean RIDDIMZ

www.peppypromotions.com

www.myspace.com/caribbeanriddims

Testimony: A MIRACLE NO LESS by Rodney Abney

2006-09-18T12:33:00.000-04:00

I HAVE NOT SMOKED A CIGARETTE IN FOURTEEN (14) DAYS. I GIVE ALL GLORY TO GOD. AND I HUMBLY, RESPECTFULLY AND SINCERELY ASK FOR YOUR CONTINUED ENCOURAGEMENT, SUPPORT AND PRAYERS AS I AM TEMPTED. AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALSO.

Rodney Abney

Note from Stanice: You can leave your comments of prayers and support here and I will make sure Rodney gets them

Sisters Speak! The Secret Pain of Silence Ends Today

2006-09-18T11:32:00.000-04:00

September 2006

It is always encouraging to read a National News article featuring women in our community, but not when it reveals our Pain and our Shame. Nonetheless it is our Truth. The October issue of Essence magazine has uncovered "The Secret Shame of Prince Georges County". The Essence article investigates why the nations most prosperous Black community has such a high rate of domestic violence reports-and why sisters are suffering in silence. The Silence Must End and it Begins with Us !

Silent Tears

Domestic violence occurs in an estimated 4 million intimate relationships each year in the United States. Domestic Violence has become of of the most important public health problems in our country and it is time to stop the silence and the tears.
Did you Know:
• FBI statistics report that a woman is battered every 15-18 seconds
• More than 3 million children witness domestic violence daily
• Approximately one third of female murder victims in the US are killed by their husbands or boyfriends.
• The Surgeon General of the US reports that domestic violence causes more injury to adult women than cancers, heart attacks or strokes.

Learn More
Sisters Unite

Sisters4Sisters, Inc. & Grass Roots, Inc presents
No Limits- Domestic Violence Empowerment Prayer Breakfast.

• Saturday October 14, 2006
• 8:00 am- 11:00 am (7:00 Doors Open)
• LaFontaine Bleu-7963 Annapolis Road-Lanham, Md
• Special Guests, Testimonies, Psalmist & More
Corporate, Organization and Business Partners & Friends are Encouraged to Purchase a Table to lend your Support to a Worthy Effort.
Tickets May Be Purchased Online Or you May Purchase them from the following Ticket Outlets after Wednesday September 20, 2006.
• John 3:16 Christian Bookstore-Lanham, Md
• For His Glory-Largo-Upper Marlboro, Md
• Jesus Bookstore-Camp Springs,Md
Proceeds will Benefit The Family Crisis Center of Prince Georges County & LOVE-Leave out Violence Everyday.

Our Price: $25.00 USD
Purchase Tickets Now | Group Ticket Sales

Sanctity of LOVE

Sisters4Sisters encourages all churches and community groups to join in this effort to Heal and Deliver victims of Domestic Violence.
Sisters4Sisters, Inc. has developed a campaign of Awareness and Prevention entitled LOVE- Leave Out Violence Everyday. This outreach project which encouages and uplifts the heart and spirit of women is purposed to provide Prayer, Professional Referrals and Resources for those in need.

Sister Programs

This is a Special Empowerment Breakfast for all... If you are a Victim, A Survivor or a Supporter please Come Out and Help us to Make a Difference.
Blessings

Sisters4Sisters, Inc.
Celebrating 7 Years of Spiritual Sisterhood & Unity

email: sisters4sisters@aol.com
voice: 301-552-7470
web: www.sisters4sisters.com
We welcome all Corporatations, Churches, Businesses and Organizations interested in Sponsorship and Partnership in this Community Wide Effort of Empowerment.

Poetry from the Philippines by Rachelle Arlin Credo

2006-08-25T09:30:00.000-04:00

Incubus
© 2006 Rachelle Arlin Credo

There's a sudden strange silence
Amid the busy whirl around me
Disclosing the scars of my innocence
From a dreadful yesterday
Shadows paint the spectacle
Of a vision that used to be enchanting
Catching me half a miracle
While a song consumes my thinking
Gradually I drifted into another reality
Like a wind from nowhere blown
Lost in a paradise of adversity
Only to find destiny on my own

Conscience
© 2006 Rachelle Arlin Credo

When I'm all alone
And no one else is with me
I can hear a charmed musical tone
With a sound full of veracity
Its tune makes my mind travel
Into a bizarre reminiscence
Making my past assent to unravel
To make known of its presence
Dark secrets begin to liquify
Unfolding everything into a spectacle
'Til my eyes could no longer cease to cry
Realizing regret embrace my enthralled soul

A Heaven of Sand and Stones
© 2006 Rachelle Arlin Credo

Build me a heaven of sand and stones
A castle out of sprays of sand
Where I may rest at the close of the day
For refuge from a whole day's run
Build me a heaven 'neath the azure sky
A little house far from the road
Where I can see the swallows as they fly
And the sampaguita leaves as they fall
Build me a heaven of little rocks
A residence that's stable and sturdy
Where the catastrophes of life
Could never topple down facilely
Build me a heaven of muck and soil
A hermitage away from civilization
There will be drawbridge and a moat
And walls from clashing religion
Build me a heaven of sand and stones
Not of bricks, of blocks and other stuff
For I do not wish to live on a throne
A home of sand and stones of love is enough

BIO:
Rachelle Arlin Credo is a freelance writer and columnist from the Philippines.
For more info, visit her website

God is So Awesome by Cassandra

2006-08-20T23:27:00.000-04:00

This week I experienced something with God that was so awesome.

About 2 weeks ago i had been experiencing chest pains and didn't know what it was so I decided to get it checked out. I went this past wednesday to have a cardiac CT ( scan of my heart to check for blood clots). This Friday I got the results. The nurse said that my heart was fine and the test showed that it was normal, BUT!!!! It showed that I have a lymph node under my right arm that is larger than normal. The Dr. wanted me to come in so he could check it out. I went and he felt the lymph node and said... " have you been bitten by any bugs lately?" I said, "yes" and pointed to my arm. He said, "Lets treat you with antibiotics for the next 2 weeks and come back and we will check for it again.

Guys!!! I had been feeling sick for the past 2 weeks and weak but just kind of blew if off. But I was getting worse and didn't know why. Lord!!!! God is so Good. God saw it there and gave me a warning sign that was serious enough for me to get it checked out. What amazes me the most is that the radiologist was checking my heart but just so happened to notice my lymph node. Praise God.!!! God is so good.
© 2006, Cassandra, Hattisburg, Mississippi. Visit her page by clicking on her name or cut and paste tp://www.myspace.com/albanycd

STANICE NOTE: Cassandra is one of my new friends on myspace.com. I'm pretty new to the site and she welcomed me with open heart. I thank God for her and many people that I've met since being a part of that community. And I thank God for her willingness to share her testimony with us... visit staniceSpace and add me as your friend. Click above Or cut and paste this url http://www.myspace.com/isayaprayerforme

Vevlyn L. Wright shops her memoir

2006-08-18T12:47:00.000-04:00

Stanice, below is a query letter that I'd like to post on your open mic page, if you will allow it. It is an excerpt from my memoir. It is also approx. 600 words.

AFTER pulling myself up I took a rest on the futon.
Five minutes later I scooted to the edge in preparation for getting to my feet. Here, I perched another couple of minutes. Standing, I immediately caught hold of my footstool and from there made my way to the bathroom, using as props en route, the armoire, French doors in my living room/bedroom, hall stand and finally the wall on the hall. My business in the toilet took about ten minutes, including rest breaks.

Again using the wall hall as a prop, I traversed the short distance from the bathroom to the washroom.

Initially, I sat on the edge of the bathtub to undress but immediately stood up for fear of falling in. I stumbled the few steps over to the washing machine and used it as a prop while I disrobed. Ambling back over to the bathtub, I eased in slowly and turned on the showerhead, allowing the spray to pelt my chest. I became dizzy. The room began turning slowly. It began to darken … I was roused – how many minutes later I am not sure - by my doorbell. It was Richard. I hollered that I would meet him downstairs.

On Tuesday morning, I was alive and very tired as I dialed the hematology department at Hôtel-Dieu to arrange for a blood transfusion. On the way downstairs, I experienced another small blackout, my third since Friday but still I managed to meet Richard who was waiting outside. The two of us rode in silence. I was too tired to talk and I think Richard sensed it.

"We're here," he said, cheerfully. It was shortly after 10:30.

With much effort I sat up to take in my surroundings.
To the right was a large plaza littered with people -- tourists by the look of them. From the vantage point of an airplane they would resemble an army of ants. In the midst stood a breathtaking structure, not at all a rare sight in Paris. In a few days, I would discover that this was Notre Dame. But today it was just another pretty facade.

Richard helped me out of the car and the short distance across the Place du Parvis Notre-Dame to the hospital lobby where he ensconced me in a chair while he went back out to find a parking space . . .

The excerpt above is taken from "I am I am,” the working title of my memoir. It chronicles the experiences of my first year in Paris, how I believe God saw me through them and how I dealt with them as a Christian.

A little about Me. I am a Michigan native who grew up in Louisiana and lived in various corners of the country, including Chicago, Boston and Dallas. A little more than a year ago, I returned to the States (locating to Washington, D.C.) after five years in Paris. I studied at Southern (LA) University, Northwestern (IL) University and the University of Missouri-Columbia, where I received a master's degree in journalism.

In addition to the aforementioned works, I have as a staffer and freelancer written and edited scores of articles for the likes of The International Herald Tribune, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the publishing imprint of UNESCO and The Patriot Ledger (Quincy, MA).

My literary output also includes two anthologies and a short story collection. Currently, I am putting the finishing touches on a book of poetry. These poems — threaded with sadness, anger, sardonic humor and hope —have been well-received in Boston, Paris and Washington.

It is my wish, hope and prayer to secure a worthy, visionary publisher/agent to help me get this memoir and My other works onto the shelves of Barnes & Noble and other book emporiums.

Vevlyn L. Wright
E-mail: Vevlyn@yahoo.com

2005 Copyright Vevlyn L. Wright

Television Premieres/Film Screening by Silvia R. Holmes

2006-08-17T13:33:00.000-04:00

Hello family & friends,

Between home & work, life has been good! I've been busy over the last two years with several projects that are airing soon and/or screening in the Washington, DC area. So, I would deem it an honor if you'd take a look at what I've been working on. Let me know your thoughts.

Peace,
Silvia

CAMP 9.11 Children of Hope
August 20, 2006 @ 8pm TLC (The Learning Channel)

On the morning of September 11th, 2001, the world changed for every American, but for no one more than the Children of 9.11. Although five years have passed, for these children of the victims, 9.11 seems like yesterday. But there is a place they come together to heal: Camp 9.11. Meet six of these courageous and inspiring children as they brave the challenges of an adventure camp that pushes them to their limits. It's only in this crucible that they forget the tools to help them cope. Along the way, they hurt and heal, laugh and cry - and leave camp strong enough to face whatever life hands them next.

Additional Airdates:
AUG 21 2006 @ 12:00 AM
AUG 30 2006@ 07:00 PM
AUG 31 2006 @ 12:00 AM

THE PACT
August 24, 2006 @ 8pm - making its Washington, DC debut
Urban Film Series
Landmark's E Street Cinema
555 11th Street NW
Washington, DC
A gritty, provocative true-life story of three friends from the 'hood, Rameck Hunt, Sampson Davis, and George Jenkins, who made a pact in high school to find a way to go to college and then medical school. They not only accomplished this, but they're now spreading the word to inspire other inner-city kids to stay off of drugs, out of gangs and to take the educational route to a better life. THE PACT captures the pathos of the men's individual journeys, the integrity of their voices and the power of their rare friendship. Their stories affirm the values that ultimately sustained and drove them: courage, tenacity, and faith. And they give tribute to the life of the mind and its power to turn dreams into reality.

For ticket information, please go to the Urban Film Series website or check out the Landmark E Street Cinema website.

For more information about THE PACT, visit ThePACTthemovie.com.

The Monastery
TLC (The Learning Channel)
(Airdate TBA - I'll keep you posted on this one)

This TLC documentary series follows 5 ordinary men and women on a journey of self-discovery. The men given this once in a lifetime opportunity live in a monastery for forty days and forty nights and the women, in a convent. The film follows them during this period to see if the experience of living amongst monks and nuns has the power to transform or alter their lives.

Deacon Bill Reid's Grace Place - Issue 2

2006-08-15T23:10:00.000-04:00

Photo from
Grace and Peace be multiplied unto you!

Just a Word from Scripture. I believe that God's Holy Word will bless all who read this.

Philippians 2:5-6 - "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God."

First, I am going to lift up these two words, "this mind." What a beautiful thought, that we can have the mind-set of Christ Jesus, because Ephesians 1:3 says that God "blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ", so that we have the ability to humble ourselves and to be obedient to our Father.

Verse 8 says that, "He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross." Jesus allowed Himself to be crucified, beat, spat upon and scourged.

Historically, scourging is described as using a whip with 6 to 9 cords of leather that had broken glass and/or sharp metal embedded into the cords so that when it struck the skin, it would invariably tear the skin as no ordinary whip could. But check out Hebrews 10:19-21! "Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God..."

You will remember that the temple in Jerusalem had one chamber that was called the Holy Place and it had another chamber that was called the Holiest or the Most Holy Place. These two sections of the temple were separated by a veil. Only the temple high priest could enter this Most Holy Place, and that was once a year, on the Day of Atonement. He would make sacrifices of animal blood not only for the sins committed by the nation/people of Israel, but also for the sins that he had committed. Within the Most Holy Place was the mercy seat, the Ark of the Covenant that contained Aaron's rod that had begun to bud, a jar of manna and the Ten Commandments.

At the time of Jesus' crucifixion, Matthew 27:50-51 states, "And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. (51) Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split..." They, agents of evil, thought they had killed the Lamb of God, they thought they had Him right where they wanted Him, but look again at Hebrews 10:19-21. Jesus consecrated, or set apart for God's holy purposes, a new and living way, a New Covenant, through the veil, that is, His flesh - when they tore His flesh, they released the blood of Jesus.

Matthew 26:28, Jesus said, “For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission (pardon, forgiveness) of sins, No sin exists in which the blood of Jesus cannot wash it away. Praise God! Hebrews 9:22 states, “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.” No more animal sacrifices! Good-bye earthly high priest!

We now have forgiveness of sins and a right to eternal life. We now have access to the very throne of God through our Mediator and Advocate, our High Priest who sits at the right hand of God Most High, making intercession for us. Praise God for Jesus Christ who truly made a way out of no way. He and He alone is the ‘way’. So, now we see what the humility and obedience of Christ has accomplished for humankind.

What this means for me is that daily I must pick up my cross, I must be obedient to the Word of God and humble myself in His holy presence.

© 2006 Deacon Bill Reid, All Nations Baptist Church, Washington, DC

STANICE SIDE-BOARD: The pastor and other people that make up All Nations Baptist Church are always so welcoming and warm toward me. I first visited after accepting an invitation by Deacon Reid to give a talk. Please visit. The church is located on the corner of North Capitol and Rhode Island Avenue, NE. Our church entrance is on Rhode Island Avenue -- 2001 North Capitol Street, NE; Washington, DC, (202) 832-9591

Empowered by Faith (article by Stanice Anderson)

2006-08-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Look for Stanice's article, Empowered by Faith, in the Sept/Oct issue of
Hope for Women Magazine.
Order your subscription today. Only $14.95 for one year.

Also check out promotion issue (July/Aug. cover below)which featured another Stanice article entitled, The Hour I First Believed

Mark your calendar--Stanice has a booth reserved at the 2nd Annual Capital BookFest '06 presented by The Washington Post (co-produced by Carla A. Nelson and Kwame Alexander) on Saturday, October 7, 2006, from 10 am to 7 pm at BLVD at the Cap Centre in Largo, MD.

This one day multi-cultural book festival will feature author readings, panels, writing and publishing workshops, poetry performances, live music, children's storytelling, and exhibitors from the Washington Metropolitan area, celebrating the literary arts and promoting literacy in Prince Georges County, Maryland.

In addition to Stanice signing her book, I Say A Prayer For Me: One Woman's Life of Faith and Triumph, you will be able to sign up for subscriptions (for yourself and to give as gifts) to Hope For Women Magazine. She will also have on hand copies of Sept/Oct issue for sale and FREE copies of the promotional July/August issue (while they last).

An article in Gannett newspaper - Muncie woman to launch Christian-based magazine for women | The Star Press - www.thestarpress.com - Muncie, IN

Out of the Darkness 2006 by Belinda Pauls-Anderson

2006-07-22T12:50:00.000-04:00

The Stats--Over 30,000 people in the United States die by suicide every year.
--Every day, approximately 80 Americans take their own life, and 1,500 more attempt to do so.
--Suicide is the fifth leading cause of death among those 5-14 years old.
--Suicide is the third leading cause of death among those 15-24 years old.

The Challenge and the Hope
August 12th – 13, 2006 is the 2006 Out of Darkness Walk. in Chicago thousands of people will walk 20 miles overnight and into the dawn to help shed light on suicide, its impact and its prevention for Suicide Prevention. Each walker agrees to raise at least $1,000. Net proceeds will benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, to fund research, education, survivor and awareness programs - both to prevent suicide and to assist those affected by suicide.

Death by suicide is on an alarming rise in the young adult and senior population. These are the very people we live with, work with and attend church with. Choosing to end one’s life by suicide testifies to a tragic brokenness. Life is God’s good and precious gift, yet for some, it appears to be a living hell and all they feel is pain and no hope.

As Christians it is our obligation to protect and promote life. We should encourage others to seek their hope in God. During those times of despair, we need to provide love and support for our troubled brethren…and for this reason I choose to take the challenge…to walk 20 miles through the night.

God has blessed me by connecting me with a spiritual based, company Spirit Inspired that is selling tee shirts silkscreened with her poem, Born for a Purpose, to help raise money for this event. To learn more about the walk and/or make a monetary donation go to …go to support a walker…Belinda Pauls-Anderson. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is sponsoring the walk.

Together we can make a difference! It is about faith and trust in God’s promises. We were all “born for a purpose”.

Born for a Purpose

We were born for a purpose,
To do something right.
To provide inspiration
To show Christ’s life.

We were born for a reason,
To Make changes in this world
To proclaim our Lord and Savior,
To tell people God’s word.

We were born in this time.
Determined by God above.
He wanted our spirits here now,
To tell of Christ love.

We were born for a purpose;
Born for this time
God gave us life!
He had a purpose in mind.

Conflict and Triumph by Deacon Bill Reid

2006-07-20T18:39:00.000-04:00

Please check out Luke 8:1-3. 1After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means. (NIV)
Some things jumped out at me when I read these Scriptures:
(1) Jesus had at least two women traveling with Him 'through every city;' these women could be called disciples;
(2) and Herod, who was the epitome of evil (His father was Herod "the great" who had attempted to have Jesus killed as an infant when he ordered the killing of all male children under of the age of two.
(3) His ancestor was Esau whose descendants were the Edomites - historical enemies of God's chosen people, particularly after they had left Egypt.

The conflict continues today!

But check out Joanna, the wife of Chuza, who was Herod's steward. Jesus' power was so strong that he had Herod's steward as one of His disciples. Pulled her out of serving darkness and evil (when you serve evil, you MUST pay a heavy price) and brought her into His marvelous light. Who knows what evil this man had required of Joanna, but by the grace and mercy of Jesus, she was able and allowed to provide to God in the flesh! -- We serve an awesome God.

Grace and peace.
© 2006 Deacon Bill Reid
All Nations Baptist Church, Washington, DC

I Got Baptised! by Joe K.

2006-07-19T20:57:00.000-04:00

Stanice:

I am not sure if you remember me. I had purchased your book via Audible.com and listened to it two times. After this, I found your website and told you of the difference your book had made in my life. Well, it has made such a profound difference in my life that I got Baptized this Sunday and the Jordan Lake, along with 21 other people from 3 other churches in the Holly Springs North Carolina area.

I was baptized a Mormon when I was 19 and felt that when I did it, I was just following along, that I never really made a commitment to Jesus but was following the rules to my earned salvation. I am SO excited; I want to tell the WHOLE WORLD. Since you are in the world, you get to hear too!!

Thank you again for honestly sharing your walk with Jesus in your recovery. Your example is helping me along with mine. I thank Jesus for touching a writer’s life and showing how you can use your stories to help people like me with my addiction by betting closer to the only One who can save.

If I never meet you here on this earth, I will look for you in Heaven!

Joe K.

Poetry: Verse, Vibes & Bites on Thursday, July 20th at 7PM @ BN downtown DC

2006-07-12T20:03:00.000-04:00

Sistah Joy
Please mark your calendar TODAY and remember to join us at Barnes & Noble for Verse, Vibes & Bites on Thursday, July 20th at 7PM!

This month's featured poets for Verse, Vibes & Bites are Luther Whitley and Thomas Wyche.

Doc Powell ushers in a smooth and serene vibe as he opens the poetry sets and accompanies the poets on his Djembe (African drum). This free, family-friendly event includes an Open Mic, and takes place on the 2nd floor, in "Center Court" near the B&N Café which features light fare including an assortment of delectable "bites."

Verse, Vibes, and Bites is hosted by Barnes and Noble Poet-in-Residence, J. Joy Matthews Alford, known as Sistah Joy, author of Lord, I'm Dancin' As Fast As I Can.

Bring a friend or 2 and a poem or 2 (yours or merely your favorite!) to share during the Open Mic segment, or just come listen to our featured poets light up the mic!

*Tip: Take the Metrorail to Metro Center to this 3rd Thursday monthly event since parking spaces in the area are often hard to find!

EVENT DETAILS:
When: Thursday, July 20, 2006 (7 - 9 PM)
Where: Barnes & Noble Books (Downtown DC store)
555 12th St., NW.,
(Corner of 12th & E Sts, 1 block from Metro Center)
Cost: FREE

Sistah Joy is Poet and Author, Lord I'm Dancin' As Fast As I Can; Host & Co-producer of Sojourn With Words which airs on Thursdays, 7:30 PM, (Ch. 76-PG County, MD)

Berfplaceaneosoul by Stacey Lunsford

2006-07-12T19:30:00.000-04:00

unborn baby at 10 weeks after conception
Fearfully and wonderfully made
Creatively, created by the Creator
Strategically and purposefully placed inside of my womb
For nine months he did reside
Everyday, I felt him growing inside
I nurtured him
I educated him
I fed him the truth of Gods word
I prayed for him
Preparations for blessings
Creatively, created by the Creator

Berfplaceaneosoul
My firstborn
A chosen generation
My royal seed
A royal priesthood,

Berfplaceaneosoul
A holy nation
Called out of the darkness into God's marvelous light
Eloquently Speaking
A city on a hill, can't be hid

B is for the beauty that's inside,
The contents of his heart
A rare jewel you will find
A diamond in the rough

E is for the extraordinary way that he writes
Profound messages, full of substance,
Faith comes by hearing
Hearing by the word of God

R is for the reality of who he is,
Where he's at And where he is going

F is because he is faithful, fearless and fired up!

P is for the panoramic view I have of him
North, South, East and West...
Berfplaceansoul,
He is destined for success

L is for the lucid lyrics that he writes

A is for his artistic abilities,
the gifts and skills that God has given to him
Not for him
But for God's glory

C is for his character
The texture of who is he,
The essence of what he is made of
Bold, strong, courageous and tenacious

E is for the execution of the prophetic word
That has been spoken over his life
Words that he has written down
Expecting the manifestation of the promise

A is for another level, another season for a breakthrough
A season to do nothing but trust God

N is for the "Navigator" the compass of his soul
Who leads him unto His paths of righteousness for His name sake

E is for his exemplary conduct in mentoring, motivating and teaching our youth
For Tomorrow,
For the Future,
For Our Grandkid's kids

O is for the outstanding model leader that he is

S is for the sorrows that he has known
Sent on assignment by the enemy to destroy him
Intercepted by God,
Used to sculpt,
Make and mold him

O is for "Out of the Darkness Comes The Light",
A poem that he wrote about me

U is for the unity formed by the trinity within him
His confidence in God and in himself
His uncountable words that have yet to be expressed

L if for the love that's deep down inside
The first letter of his last name

Lunsford,
The Legacy Continues
With my royal seed
Berfplaceaneosoul
The legend
The man
His music
His poetry
His spoken word

© 2006 Stacey Lunsford

FEAR is Conquered by Taking Action

2006-07-05T22:45:00.000-04:00

Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood. When you dare to face the things that scare you, you open the door to freedom and success.

Most of your obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them or procrastinating about dealing with them, you make up your mind to walk boldly through them.

Don't be afraid to take the steps you need to take to make those positive changes in your life. To fight your fears, you must act. Your fears increase when you wait, put off, or postpone. If you understood your situation enough, you would never be afraid.

The attainment of your dreams is but a determined action away. Successful people take action.

©2006 by Max Steingart

Stanice Note: I found this today on Eduardo Dancel's blog, Daily Motivations

Memories of Katrina by Darby Diana Beattie

2006-07-01T12:03:00.000-04:00

Dear Stanice,
I am 62 years old. I lost everything in Katrina. I am living in Tucson,Az. now. Your poem, Tell Me" is awesome. I am also writer/poet. I have prayed for the dead. I saw too much political greed. I am not returning to New Orleans.

I have attached my personal experience story, Memories of Katrina, for you to read. Please feel free to reprint and give to your friends and let them know the true story of Katrina. It was racial genocide,our politics did not care about poor Americans. I will always believe this. God will repay corruption in New Orleans. Kind Regards,Darby Diana Beattie

Go to my webpage. I write childrens poetry.

Wendy's Dreams Come True in Recovery

2006-06-27T16:30:00.000-04:00

Check out Beachglass, a novel by Wendy Blackburn. (2006, St. Martin's Press) Wendy introduced her book to me in an email,

"...It’s a friendship story that takes place in Los Angeles AA in the 1980s. It’s a novel, fiction; but I too am in recovery (coming up on 19 years) and am a CD counselor (for almost 15 years). The book is chock full of recovery and inspiration and people are loving it."

And I say...

"You grow, Wendy! It's real...victory happens in recovery and dreams deferred are realized--one day at a time."

Stanice Anderson

Simple Specific Prayer WORKS

2006-06-20T15:18:00.000-04:00

A reader-friend and sister in Christ, Valerie in New Brunswick, New Jersey emailed me on June 16, 2006 the following:

"...pray for my sister, i have no idea where she is"

Later on June 16th, guided by the Holy Spirit I wrote back to Valerie:

"Consider it done. God knows exactly where she is and I’m asking Him to have her call someone in the fam within 3 days. She is all right."

June 20th, Valerie emailed me the following:

"SWEET JESUS! HE DID IT! MY FRIEND IN FAYETTVILLE, NC EMAILED ME AND SAID MY SISTER CALLED HER. IT WAS ON JUNE 19TH! GOD BLESS YOU"

Valerie, I receive that blessing in the Name of Jesus. Amen. So be it!

A Texas Teen's Testimony

2006-06-18T09:36:00.000-04:00

Dear Stanice Anderson,
Hello, my name is V_____ I'm 19 years old. I am fixing to turn 20 in a few weeks. Anyways, I am writing you this email to tell you what a wonderful and touching book you wrote. I SAY A PRAYER FOR ME. It's outstanding.

You see, while I was growing up, I was molested by an older cousin. I was only 5 years old. When I got older I found a way to forget about that happened to me by using and experimenting with drugs. I believe I was 12 years old when I began a slow start to destruction. Then I started going to a place called Palmer's Drug Abuse Program. It was fun. There was many kids my age and older who where trying to get off of drugs, but I thought, "Hey I just started why do I want to stop". Soon I started to use cocaine.

Then when I was 15 years old I got raped twice. Anger and bitterness filled my heart. Now I wasn't a 15 year old cocaine user, I was a 15 year old heroin user. I loved the way it felt. I soon forgot about how my parents loved to help everyone out but their own daughter. I forgot the pain I felt when I asked my best friend to tell the guy who raped me to leave and she said, no. Pretty soon I was stealing just to get a fix. I dropped out of school in the beginning of my 11th grade year. I was always running away from everything.

Then in January a few months before I turned 17, I was outside of a friend's house trying to unlock her car because she locked her keys in the car. The person who never ever talked to us came out and helped and he looked at me, not her, but me and said, "_____, what are you doing with your life? You're so young. Jesus loves you and has something great for you. Why are you messing up your life hanging around these people?" I didn't say anything. I just stood there for a second and then rolled my eyes. I heard a voice in my head that said, "Yeah right. How can that be? I'm useless to this world."

Then in March of 2003, I got a wake up call. Me and my best friend went to steal some DVDS. But when I was done and waiting for her outside, a man followed her and said she had to come with him and I as well. She got taken to jail and for some reason the cop just gave me a ticket and told me to go get some help for my friend. So I left with her car. I found someone to get her out of jail. We couldn't go back to our house, so what did we do? The only thing we knew how...we ran away again.

Finally on March 23, 2003 we said enough was enough and went home. She dropped me off down the street from my house instead of in front. As I was walking, I thought, "What do I do now?" Then, I walked to the door and before I could even lift my arm to open it, to my surprise, my mom flung the door open, came out, and hugged me. I didn't understand why she, my dad, and my brother were being so emotional about it. After all, I ran away many times before.

Then, that night I was walking in my room and I thought I heard a voice say my name. Then, I heard it again and ran out my room. I started to think it was the devil himself coming after me. So I walked into my room one more time telling myself that there is nothing there, but this time I heard my name louder and I screamed. My dad came running in my room with a bat. He turned on the light and there sitting on the floor behind my TV was my best friend. My father said we only had 5 mins to talk and we decided to run a way again.

So that night i left my parents a note and took off down the street and waited for my best friend. After waiting a while, I realized she wasn't coming. When I was about to get up, a cop stopped me and asked what I was doing sitting alone on a street corner at 1:00 in the morning. He said, "go home."

That morning I lay on my bed and thought of how my life wasn't so great and fell asleep. I woke up to my mother screaming and running into my room. All she kept saying was, "show me your arms! show them to me." Right then and there, I knew that everything was about to come out. I told my parents everything I was doing. When I saw the look on my parents' faces and in their eyes, I could see their hearts breaking. After I finished confessing, I fell to my knees and cried.

The first person my dad called was a lady named _____ from the Palmer's Drug Abuse Program in San Antonio Tx. All she said was send her some where to detox her and I'll do the rest. But before I got to detox I had to get a blood test done to see if I had AIDS, HIV, or HEP C. It turned out I had Hep C. I cried the whole time I was sent away.

When I stated doing my 12 step program, I felt a way I still can't describe. But everyone loved me there. They all had known me since I was 12 years old and here I was 17. Oh yeah, you're right, they do like to hug alot--lol.

Anyways. while I was there I meant a guy named ______ who bugged me to death, but one day we sat down and really talked. He told me about Jesus and no matter how much I pushed this guy away God kept pushing him into my life--so i surrendered. I surrendered everything I had in November. I asked Jesus into my heart at my aunt's church. As I sat there crying like i have never cried before, it was wonderful. I finally felt free.

Then, the blessings started to fall from Heaven. On January 7, 2004, I was healed from Hep C. Then a few weeks after that ________ became my boyfriend. He keeps me on my toes. I finished high school. I am now in college. Me and ______ are still together. I help out in his Father's church with the children. My relationship with my parents is wonderful. They aren't Christian yet but I am working on it. Me and ______ are planning to get married in about 2 years.

Now reading your book made me see me ... if that makes any sense. You went down the same road as I. You over came the impossible. Your dreams came true and you got your books out. I bought your book about a year ago and I would pick it up read a few pages and put it back down and that's about it but this last time was different. Something just wouldn't it wouldn't let me put it down. My dream is to preach the word of God to the troubled youth and tell them my story. Reading your book has made me see I can do that and when the time is right God will provide.
Thank you for writing this book. May God bless you
© 2006 V_____, San Antonio, TX. Used with permission from V_______.

Muncie woman to launch Christian-based magazine for women in June | The Star Press - www.thestarpress.com - Muncie, IN

2006-05-31T00:58:00.000-04:00

Muncie woman to launch Christian-based magazine for women in June | The Star Press - www.thestarpress.com - Muncie, IN

The Color Purple on Broadway

2006-05-28T11:43:00.000-04:00

The Color Purple on Broadway

Meet Winner Jazz Barnes...

2006-05-16T23:34:00.000-04:00

Great Ideas 2 Poster Contest Winner, 2006 Junior Exhibit (GRADES 5-7)

1st Place: Role Models Mean the World to Me-- Jazz M. Barnes, Benning Elementary School, Washington, DC

Her photo follows on Thursday, May 18. Taken at tonight's award ceremony, it's still in my camera. I was blessed to be one of the judges for the Creative Writing Category. The metal looking element is a mirror as she told me, "it reflects who ever is looking in it...including myself when I look in it...I, too, am a role model."

What a delightful young budding artist...more about her on Thursday. See other winners and info on the organization who put on the contest go to Fresh Ideas Organization

Priorities by Frank Bertrand

2006-04-19T00:02:00.000-04:00

Do I have grief, trials and temptations? Is my life one big happy series of experiences? Do I put my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ first in my life and then take the lowly place at his communion table? Then answering the first 2 questions is a moot point. All my life is lived for Chris--so nothing is my own. All Praise and Glory be to HIS name. AMEN..

© 2006 Frank Bertrand, Fairfax, VA, Christian Barbershop Harmony Fellowship, Brethern in Harmony of Northern Virgina

So Much Hate by Eve Hall

2006-04-11T14:03:00.000-04:00

Whites against Blacks
Daughters against mothers
Sons against fathers
Brothers against sisters.

Why so much hate?

Where is the love for one another
Where the morals and the guidance?
Where is the unity and peace?
Where is the security and brotherhood?

Where is this nation headed?

When will be united as one family
When will prejudice and racism be erased?
When will neighbor truly love his neighbor?
When will Martin L. King’s dream come true?

It starts with the golden rule,
“Loving others as you love yourself.”

© 9-11-2001 Eve Hall, Atlanta, GA

Pray for Marci

2006-03-15T21:38:00.000-05:00

from Marci:I need you guys to pray for me and with me, I'm very very worried about my eye (the left eye) i still have no vision at all in my right eye, and my left eye seems to be getting weaker, i would like to ask you all, that if you know a friend or someone else besides your self, would you ask other prayer warriors to pray for me, seriously, I have been praying thru-out each day, if the Lord reveals anything to any of you concerning me or my health or anything else you would like to share please email me asap...p.s I'm having a colonoscopy next Tuesday. Pray that there is no cancer or major damaging problems. Thanks for everything, I love you.

Praise Report from Stacey L.

2006-03-14T07:31:00.000-05:00

Dear Family In Christ,
My final hearing went well, all charges were dropped. My record will be cleared within 60 days. I am waiting for my letter to arrive in the mail, stating the above. Thanks so much for your prayers and support.

(c) 2006 Stacey L.

STANICE SAYS: Thank you Jesus, for what you have done and are about to do in, with, and through Stacey’s life AND the person who is reading this, right now. Amen. So be it! So it is!

The Scripture Tree

2006-03-13T16:50:00.000-05:00

I Am A Survivor by Valerie J. Grimes

2006-03-05T01:05:00.000-05:00

I AM A SURVIVOR,
I TOO HURT,
I TOO REMEMBER THE PAIN OF YESTERDAY.
I KNOW I MUST LET GO AND LET GOD.
YET IT SEEMS SO HARD TO DO.
WHY DO I PUT MYSELF THROUGH THIS.
I KNOW I CAN DO THIS..
YET THE DARK ONE IS RIGHT BEHIND ME.
HOW DO I LET IT GO?
THE PAIN OF YESTERDAY, IS JUST THAT YESTERDAY.
I AM HERE TODAY.
I WILL SURVIVE, BECAUSE I AM A SURVIVOR.
AND I NOW KNOW HOW TO LET GOD...

© 2006 VALERIE J GRIMES, Fayetteville, NC

Today's Voice features Stanice

2006-03-01T06:33:00.000-05:00

Untitled Document

American Idol & Jesus?

2006-02-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

Reported by my friend and brother in Christ Frank Bertrand:

"Did you hear about a woman named Mandis who was on American Idol on Tuesday, February 14? She was belittled by Simon for her overly abundant weight which hurt her deeply. She told Simon how hurt she was and that she forgave him even though he did not apologize. She then said that if Jesus could die on the cross for her sins, she could extend the same unselfish pardon to him. He replied that he was humbled by her generosity and asked for a hug. Which she graciously gave him."

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

NewsClip: Teacher uses "N" Word

2006-02-15T17:17:00.000-05:00

Video Player

ACN Presents: I Need Some Soldiers

2006-02-15T11:18:00.000-05:00

ACN Presents: I Need Some Soldiers

Testimony: Healed of Cancer

2006-02-11T23:09:00.000-05:00

Praise God! With Much need to write to you. This is your Sister Joyce in New York, Kathy your other Sister who we both did pray touched and agreed. Well the Doctors cannot find any Cancer.

Healed By Jesus, Thank God!

Every now and then we need to be Reminded of the Love we have shared abroad, Letting us know his love lives within, Kiss them babies for me)

Romans 5:5
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Birth of the Mural by Kay Penn Presson

2006-02-10T23:38:00.000-05:00

Mural by Kay in Bardwell, Kentucky
Since I was a child, living in the housing projects of Paducah, I have been drawing and writing. I found it to be not only a good way to keep out of trouble, but also to occupy my time.

From my early childhood, I've always wanted to draw on walls, however, my Mama did not appreciate my "wall art." She did encourage me to draw on appropriate material.

As Civil War buffs, my roommate and I visited the northern battlefields, such as Gettysburg, August, 2001. From there, we traveled to Washington, D.C., where we were August 11...one month before the tragedy of 9/11.

As with everyone, we were both saddened and angered by the cowardly attack of 9/11. And, being of the generation when Pres. Kennedy was assassinated, I remember where I was when both tragedies occurred.

The thought of painting a mural on the side of my building here in Bardwell never entered my mind. However, one morning in August, 2002, about 2, I had a dream that I had painted the mural shown in the photo. The dream was so real I got up, went outside and looked...there was nothing...the red brick wall was blank. However, I believe the dream was sent from God and as an artist, I could use my talent to paint the mural as depicted in the dream.

I adapted the original photo of the firemen raising the flag...behind the firemen, I painted an outline of the United States, with red dots indicating Pennsylvania, New York City, and Washington, D.C....where the terrorists struck. I did not use a ladder...merely duct-taped a paint brush on the end of tent poles and painted the upper areas.

In the Bronx section of New York City is Throg's Neck Bridge, which I hope someday to visit, because it was named after one of my ancestors, John Throckmorton, who settled in that area in 1643.

This mural was painted to honor our American spirit and to encourage. It was a dream fulfilled, and I finally "drew on a wall," and if my Mama were alive, I know she would not object.

© 2006 Kay Penn Presson, Bardwell, Kentucky

Tribute to Coretta Scott King

2006-02-09T22:52:00.000-05:00

Tribute, in Song and Photo, to Coretta Scott King

Surrender is the Key

2006-02-02T19:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, my name is ______ I'm 19 years old I am fixing to turn 20 in a few weeks. Anyways, I am writing you this email to tell you what a wonderful and touching book you wrote. I SAY A PRAYER FOR ME. It's outstanding. You see while I was growing up I was molested my and older cousin when I was only 5 years old. When I got older I found a way to forget about that happen to me by using experimenting with drugs. I believe I was 12 years old when I began slow start to destruction. Then I started going to a place called _______ Drug Abuse Program it was fun. There was many kids my age and older who where trying to get off of drugs, but I thought, "Hey I just started why do I want to stop".

Soon I started to use cocaine. Then when I was 15 years old I got raped twice. Anger and bitterness filled my heart. Now I wasn't a 15 year old cocaine user, I was a 15 year old heroin user. I loved the way it felt I soon forgot about how my parents loved to help everyone out but their own daughter. I forgot the pain I felt when I asked my best friend to tell the guy who raped me to leave and she said, “No.”
Pretty soon, I was stealing just to get a fix. I dropped out of school in the beginning of my 11th grade year. I was always running away from everything.

Then in January, about this time a few months before I turned 17, I was outside of a friend’s house trying to unlock her car because she locked her keys in the car. The person who never ever talked to us came out and helped and he looked at me, not her, but me and said, "___ what are you doing with your life? You’re so young. Jesus loves you and has something great for you. Why are you messing up your life hanging around these people?"

I didn't say anything. I just stood there for a second and rolled my eyes at her. I heard a voice in my head that said, “Yeah, right. How can that be? I'm useless to this world.

Then in March of 2003, I got a wake up call. My best friend and I went to steal some DVDs but when I was done and waiting for her outside a cop followed her and said she had to come with him—and me, too! She got taken to jail and for some reason the cop just gave me a ticket and told me to go get some help for my friend. So I left in her car.

I found someone to get her out and we couldn't go back to our house so what did we do? The only thing we knew how—we ran away—again.

Finally on March 23, 2003 we said, “Enough is enough,” and went home. She dropped me off down the street from my house instead of in front. As I walked, I thought, “What do I do now?”

Then I walked to the door and before I could even lifted my arm to open it, to my surprise, my mom flung open the door and hugged me. I didn't understand why she, my dad and my brother were being so emotional about it. I’d run away many times before.

Later that night, as I walked into my room i thought I heard a voice say my name. Then I heard it again. Scared—I ran out my room. I thought it was the devil, himself, coming after me. So I walked into my room one more time and told myself that there was nothing there. But this time, I heard my name louder. I screamed and my dad came running in with a bat. He turned on the light and there was my best friend sitting behind my TV.

My father said we only had 5 minutes to talk and we decided to run away again. So that night I left my parents a note and took off down the street and waited for my best friend. Soon, I realized she wasn't coming. When I was about to get up a cop stopped me and asked what I was doing sitting alone on a street corner at 1:00 in the morning. He then said, “Go home.”

That night as I lay on my bed, I thought of how my life wasn't so great and fell asleep.

In the morning, I woke up to my mother screaming and running into my room. She kept saying, “Show me your arms. Show them to me!” Right then and there I knew that everything was about to come out.

I told my parents everything I was doing. When I saw the look on my parents faces, I could see in their eyes their hearts breaking. After I finished, I fell to my knees and cried like a newborn baby. The first person that my dad called was a lady named ____ from the ______ Drug Abuse Program in ______. She told my dad to send me to detox and she would do the rest. But before I got to detox, I had to get a blood test done to see if I had AIDS, HIV, or HEP-C. I tested positive for HEPATITUS-C. I cried the whole time, I was away in detox.

Once out of detox, I started doing my 12 step program. I felt a way I still can’t describe. Everyone loved me. Most had known me since I was 12-years-old and here I am 17 now.

Oh yeah, you are right, the people in 12-step programs do like to hug a lot. LOL. Anyways, while I was there I meant a guy named ____ who bugged me to death, but one day we sat down and really talked. He told me about Jesus and no matter how much I pushed this guy away God kept pushing him into my life. So, I surrendered.

I surrendered everything; and, in November I asked Jesus into my heart while at my Aunt’s church. I a sat there in my seat crying like i have never cried before. Actually, it was wonderful. Finally, I felt free!
Then, the blessings started to fall from heaven.

On January 7, 2004, I was healed from Hepatitus-C. Then, a few weeks after that ______ became my boyfriend. He keeps me on my toes.

I finished high school. I am now in college. _____ and I are still together. We are planning to get married in about two years. I help out in his father’s church with the children. Also, my relationship with my parents is wonderful. They aren't Christian—YET; but I am working on it.

Now, reading your book made me see me. If that makes any sense. You went down the same road as I did. You overcame the impossible. Your dreams came true and you got your books out. I bought your book about a year ago and I would pick it up read a few pages and put it back down. But this last time was different. Something just wouldn't let me put it down. My dream is to preach the Word of God to troubled youth and tell them my story. Reading your book made me see that I can do that and when the time is right, God well provide.

© 2006 anonymous-to-you-but-not-to-God.

From drugs to deliverance, author shares her story by Shera Everette

2006-01-30T21:09:00.000-05:00

Cover Story - Blessed Magazine

How God Delivered Me! by Joyce Waller

2006-01-29T09:37:00.000-05:00

I got a testimony! First of all on August 6, 2005 I suffered a heart attack, but thought it was acid reflux disease. Boy was I wrong! I walked around to August 9, 2005 taking Alka Seltzer, and Pepto Bismol trying to relieve the severe burring in my chest and throat. During this time I also remained sick to my stomach and nauseated. I did not know the symptoms of heart attacks in women.

I am blessed to be here after ignoring the signs for 4 days. I went to my Doctor on August 9, 2005 and she diagnosed me with have all the symptoms of a heart attack. She immediately called a ambulance and had me sent to the hospital for treatment.

I remained in the hospital until September 9, 2005. My triple bypass surgery was done on September 2, 2005.

On August 6, 2005 the taste for cigarettes was gone, and every time I tried to smoke one I would get sick on my stomach. I am still not smoking. I give all thanks to God for blessing me to still be among the living. I also thank all my family, friends, and co-workers for their kinds words, and constant prayers.

To God Be the Glory, for the great thing he has done! Amen

© 2006 Joyce Waller, Executive Director, Star Eleganze
Youth Talent Mentoring Program, Durham, NC

Is it really as bad as this article says???

2006-01-20T17:15:00.000-05:00

Black Chile in Moscow

Our writer-friend, Black Chile, in Russia answers:

"It's -40 degrees today.

not 40,

-40 degrees. Help me...."

Russia in Grip of New Cold War
Nick Paton Walsh in Moscow, Wednesday January 18, 2006
The Guardian

The schools are shut, traffic has ebbed and life has taken a more cautious pace over the sheet ice. There is little you can do but shuffle on, tape up your windows and buy a thicker hat. Temperatures in Moscow yesterday plunged to -28C.

Three people froze to death and 14 were taken seriously ill. But, as ever, it will get worse for this city of 12 million. Weather forecasters predict that tonight and tomorrow temperatures will plunge to as low as -37C, the coldest in the capital since 1979. Moscow's record low is -42.1, set 66 years ago. One Russian news website ran the headline "The Day After Tomorrow - in Moscow", referring to the Hollywood film about global warming in which the United States is enveloped overnight in a new ice age. Tales of burst pipes, electric-heater fires, icy road accidents and homeless people frozen solid will become commonplace as the week rumbles glacially on.

Cold, known in Russia by the phlegmy word kholod, is a familiar but indefatigable enemy and 107 Muscovites have died from it since October. For the thousands of homeless who roam the city's streets, -37 is a death sentence. At the weekend, the police were ordered to stop their traditional practice of ejecting homeless people from underpasses and metro stations and told, instead, to help them find state-run shelters. In a city normally paralysed by traffic, up to 400,000 Muscovites found their cars would not start and took the metro to work instead. The 9 million people who use the system routinely just grimaced and bore the extra load. The city's electricity network was more troubled. The government made large businesses pledge yesterday to put out their lights while they still had a choice, though between 3pm and 9pm, the city authorities introduced,,electricity, rationing. Some businesses reached agreements to keep functioning at a basiclevel.

An editor at the business daily newspaper Vedomosti said the lights were off and only the computers were working in the newsroom. "It looks a bit like an orchestra at the moment, with only the players' music stands alight," he said. But when life is hard in Moscow, it is intolerable in the regions, where Russia's remaining 131 million people live. It's an unexpected crisis in a country that prides itself on being an energy power - the biggest exporter of oil after Saudi Arabia and the leading supplier of gas to Europe. But among Russians, where the Kremlin's geopolitical ambitions have nearly always taken precedence over ordinary folk, it came as little surprise. To top it all, they are also facing a record rise in utility prices.

My (Stanice) response, PRAYER. Please, stand with me in this:

Father God, help her and keep her safe, keep her warm, rally to the aid of the country, it’s foreign population and the Muscovites and the other European countries that are deluged with the drastic and unbearable cold. Rebuke everything that is trying to come against the people – oppressed by the cold and in some cases governments who’s hearts also have a tendency to be cold. Forgive us Father if we have done things to this planet—that you designed as our haven—that in any way have caused the environmental conditions from wince this type of cold is possible. I know so little Father God about such things but I know that you are God, the great I AM and you can change things in an instant. So I ask you to raise the temperatures and may the people see and acknowledge by giving you praises. You know I’ll praise you! As a matter of fact, I praise you now like it is already done. Thank you for hearing my prayer. Thank you for ____, who alerted my heart to the needs of the people. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. So be it! So it is!

Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion

2006-01-19T13:16:00.000-05:00

Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion

Movie Short: The Life Guard

2006-01-18T19:40:00.000-05:00

© 2006 The Jamie Kennedy Experiment Click for the movie above or here

Also, take a break at www.stanice.com. (Mucho more than a web site—it's an inspirational experience!)

Prompt Faith by Ajelon Straws

2006-01-17T22:13:00.000-05:00

I remember when you was a baby and you made a lot of mistakes,
Not knowing, I was preparing you to be a world changer that awakes.

So many looked over you and even thought you were weird,
You have a giving heart to help others but in need they disappeared.

When you told your friends "I can’t drink, smoke, or club no more," they said, "please get with the program."
That was the beginning of your battles, as my secret lies in the Spirit realm.

You didn’t understand why you were going through so much hell, but I was keeping you humble,
Knowing you had to seek me for guidance so the world won’t make you stumble.

Many nights you cried out and you asked me, "Lord what did I do wrong?"
I’m allowing you to go to trials to build character and make you strong.

The bruises and scars you received in spiritual warfare is to show you that you’re not a weak Saint,
Ensuring that you will endure the journey and I will not let you faint.

Yes, I see the storms coming but hold on to me and know that I’m the way,
This will teach you to use the Holy Spirit, as your intercessor, when you kneel and pray.

When you have sinned, the devil attacks your mind saying “you failed God and you're nothing. Why don’t you submit to me in defeat?”
With each and every failure, you are running to my throne where it’s always space on the mercy seat.

Your training is almost over and hell is starting to tremble,
Satan screaming Legion spirits and principalities, we must quickly assemble.

In your final stage, I see you praising and crying out but I stay quiet to make your spirit thirst,
For at the divine appointed time, all that I put in you will be like a dam that’s getting ready to burst.

Now, you’ve graduated from the prompt faith level and the world knows you stand for me,
And, now you’re on a rising level and I built your spirit like wood from a cedar tree.

So, go forth and shake the nations and prophesy to them “that time is short for Shiloh is coming for his bride,"
And, I sit and smile from my throne saying you’ve been tested and you’ve been tried.

© 2005 Ajelon Straws, Miami, FL.

A Million Little Lies - January 8, 2006

2006-01-17T12:46:00.000-05:00

A Million Little Lies - January 8, 2006

Tribute to Gene Zucker by Frank Bertrand

2006-01-17T11:02:00.000-05:00

Brethern in Harmony of Northern VA
Frank: My good friend, Gene Zucker, died this weekend. It had been a long fight for him with bone cancer and leukemia. He will be buried sometime this week and my Gospel Barbershop will sing for him. He was one of our members and singers. He will be sorely missed; but we are jealous that he went to his reward without us. We will just have to wait a little longer to sing with him again.

Stanice: Amen, my friend. How blessed you were to share your earthly journey together as friends and how blessed to know that through Christ you have eternity yet to go. To God be the glory forever and ever.

Christian Barbershop Harmony Fellowship, Brethern in Harmony of Northern Virgina

CNN.com - Review: 'The Bible Game'�is a�testament to your knowledge - Jan 13, 2006

2006-01-16T20:14:00.000-05:00

CNN.com - Review: 'The Bible Game'�is a�testament to your knowledge - Jan 13, 2006

The Kristo - Movie

2006-01-16T17:17:00.000-05:00

The Kristo - Movie - The Kristo

The Tired Christian's Prayer: Just Breathe by Jennifer Brown

2006-01-15T10:15:00.000-05:00

Sculpture, "Breathe" by David Thummel

Just need a minute to breathe,
Just a moment of space & time, to catch my breath Not to run a marathon, or go for a drive, Just a minute to breathe, just breathe

Not a minute to breathe between abusive words, Not a minute to breathe between Having your legs knocked out from under you, But just a minute to breathe, just breathe

Wanting clarity, revelation & understanding of thought Having to wait for the right time & season seems unbearable, Do I dor Don't I, Do I go or Do I Stay I just need a minute to breathe, just breathe

Wanting a moment to ask God why,
even though we aren't supposed to,
When it seems like the ones we need to help us fight this fight are taken from us And all that is left is a empty great big gapiing void, Just a moment, to absorbe, to download to reflect, to breathe, just breathe

Having to re-group, re-plan, re-gather,
after loss, shock, or disappointment.
To sit and remember when life wasn't so complicated.
To sit and enjoy life, to breathe just breathe,

To exhale,
To be one with the peace,
To be in the world and not be a part of it.

To breathe, just breathe,
To smile, when everything inside you feels broken, no clarity to make sence for yourself.

To breathe, just breathe, seems unobtainable.
Not wanting to take the wrong turn,
To know God's way despite it all,
but all things will work together for my good...

To breathe, just breathe...

© 2006 Jennifer Brown, Acworth, Ga.

Their Eyes Were Reading Smut by Nick Chiles

2006-01-12T09:58:00.000-05:00

New York Times - January 4, 2006
Op-Ed Contributor

Their Eyes Were Reading Smut
By NICK CHILES

Snellville, Ga.

LAST month I happened to go into the Borders Books store at the Stonecrest mall in Lithonia, Ga., about a half-hour from my house here. To my surprise, it had one of the largest collections of books by black authors that I've ever seen outside an independent black bookstore, rows and rows of bookcases. This is the sort of discovery that makes the pulse quicken, evidence of a population I've spent most of my professional life seeking: African-American readers. What a thrill to have so much space in a major chain store devoted to this country's black writers.

With an extra spring in my step, I walked into the "African-American Literature" section - and what I saw there thoroughly embarrassed and disgusted me.

On shelf after shelf, in bookcase after bookcase, all that I could see was lurid book jackets displaying all forms of brown flesh, usually half-naked and in some erotic pose, often accompanied by guns and other symbols of criminal life. I felt as if I was walking into a pornography shop, except in this case the smut is being produced by and for my people, and it is called "literature."

As a black author, I had certainly become familiar with the sexualization and degradation of black fiction. Over the last several years, I had watched the shelves of black bookstores around the country and the tables of street vendors, particularly in New York City, become overrun with novels that seemed to appeal exclusively to our most prurient natures - as if these nasty books were pairing off back in the stockrooms like little paperback rabbits and churning out even more graphic offspring that make Ralph Ellison books cringe into a dusty corner.

Early last year I walked into a B. Dalton bookstore in a New Jersey mall where the manager had always proudly told me how well my books were selling. This time, I was introduced to a new manager who was just as proud to show me an enhanced black books section teeming with this new black erotica. I've also noticed much more of this oversexed genre in Barnes & Noble bookstores over the past few months, although it's harder to see there since the chain doesn't appear to have separate black fiction sections.

But up until that visit to Borders in Lithonia, I had thought this mostly a phenomenon of the black retail world, where the black bookstore owners and street vendors say they have to stock what sells, and increasingly what sells are stories that glorify and glamorize black criminals. The genre has been described by different names; "ghetto fiction" and "street lit" are two I've heard most often. Apparently, what we are now seeing is the crossover of this genre to mainstream bookstores.

But the placard above this section of Borders in Lithonia didn't say "Street Lit," it said "African-American Literature." We were all represented under that placard, the whole community of black authors - from me to Terry McMillan and Toni Morrison, from Yolanda Joe and Benilde Little to Edward P. Jones and Kuwana Haulsey - surrounded and swallowed whole on the shelves by an overwhelming wave of titles and jackets that I wouldn't want my 13-year-old son to see: "Hustlin' Backwards." "Legit Baller." "A Hustler's Wife." "Chocolate Flava."

I've heard defenders say that the main buyers of these books, young black women, have simply found something that speaks to them, and that it's great that they're reading something. I'd agree if these books were a starting point, and that readers ultimately turned to works inspired by the best that's in us, not the worst.

But we're not seeing evidence of that. On Essence magazine's list of best sellers at black bookstores, for example, authors of street lit now dominate, driving out serious writers. Under the heading "African-American Literature," what's available is almost exclusively pornography for black women.

As I stood there in Borders, I had two sensations: I was ashamed and mortified to see my books sitting on the same shelves as these titles; and secondly, as someone who makes a living as a writer I felt I had no way to compete with these purveyors of crassness.

That leaves me wondering where we - writers, publishers, readers, the black community - go from here. Is street fiction some passing fad, or does it represent our future? It's depressing that this noble profession, one that I aspired to as a child from the moment I first cracked open James Baldwin and Gabriel García Márquez about 30 years ago, has been reduced by the greed of the publishing industry and the ways of the American marketplace to a tasteless collection of pornography.

I realize that publishing is a business, but publishers also have a responsibility to balance street lit with more quality writing. After all, how are we going to explain ourselves to the next generation of writers and readers who will wonder why they have so little to read of import and value produced in the early 21st century, why their founts of inspiration are so parched?

At times, I push myself away from the computer in anger. I don't want to compete with "Legit Baller." But then I come across something like "The Known World" by Edward P. Jones and again I am inspired.

But I must say that I retain very little of the hope and excitement and enthusiasm that I had when my first book was published eight years ago. I feel defeated, disrespected and troubled about the future of my community and my little subsection of this carnivorous, unforgiving industry.

Nick Chiles, the editor in chief of Odyssey Couleur magazine, is the co-author, with Denene Millner, of "A Love Story."

Keep Movin' by Michael J. Burt

2006-01-10T13:12:00.000-05:00

I gotta keep movin'
I said I gotta keep movin'
They wanna keep me back
Stop my progress
Kill my pride
Steal all I've got inside

I gotta keep movin'
Cause' one day I'm gonna be free
I said one day I'm gonna be free
The Lord's gonna come for me
That will be the day I leave

I gotta keep movin'
Cause' this world was meant for me
Meant for you
Built for us
And everyone else too

I gotta keep movin'
So I can get to the world
Cause' I'm not there now
I'm not even a man
I said I gotta keep movin'

I gotta keep movin'
It's time for us to settle down
Build a family
Two kids or three
Cause' this world was made for livin'
And I wanna live in it
With you

I gotta keep movin'
I said I gotta keep movin'
And one day I'll be free
Like the ones that died
So I could be

© 2005 Michael J. Burt, Washington, DC, Author, Experience Is Impossible Without a Chance: A Collection of Poems, www.mjburtpoetry.com

Believing God by Billye Okera

2006-01-08T20:41:00.000-05:00

(far right)Billye Okera
I am looking for healing from a depression I have had most of my life (although most of the time, it is mild). The other day, I started to say well maybe this is just my "THORN IN THE FLESH", but, then I thought, well maybe God doesn't want us to accept everything as a Thorn in the Flesh (perhaps Paul was a special case, maybe God wants us to continue to believe in his healing power...and that is what I am holding onto this year. Please keep me in prayer.

© 2005 Billye Okera, Washington, DC

StaniceSpeak: My friend since my youth, Billye, will be performing poetry with the group, Collective Voices, for their 10th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Poetry Extravaganza. Please check it out, if you are in the Washington, DC area:

Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 1:30 - 5:00 P.M.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Library
(Lower level Auditorium, Room A-5),
901 G St. NW,
Washington, DC
FREE to the Public.

Temporary Pleasures by Stacey Lunsford

2005-12-28T13:30:00.000-05:00

I am in a quiet place, a healing, digging deep, forgiving, releasing, standing accountable for my behavior place. Not so much for the things that have happened to me but my response to the things that have happened to me. I'm in a place of reconciliation, a place of deliverance, restoration, a refreshing place, a place of renewal, the brook of Cherith (the place of cutting) surgery yes, open heart by the Master Surgeon Himself who is removing everything that serves no purpose and has no value in my life. Dying to self, a place of confrontation, facing things that I have swept under the rug. Painful, hurtful things that I never wanted to deal with, I am peeling off the layers willfully. Temporary pleasures have hidden price tags.

When I hit Rochelle (temporary pleasure) because he lied, I had to ask myself, what was it about that lie because he has been lying for 19 years? Thoughtfully contemplating the question, reviewing our past, I remember the day that I told him, “I’m not going to have an abortion.” His verbal/emotional response to me was symbolic to the beating (hidden price tag) that I received for my 10 seconds of pleasure for hitting him, including a severely dislocated shoulder and 32 hour imprisonment for his false report; yes, he lied again and I spent time in the joint but listen closely to my next point. “He who conceals his disease cannot expect to be cured”, Ethiopian Proverb. Temporary pleasures have hidden price tags.

Be angry and sin not. Unresolved anger will make you offensive. Failure to confront your hurts/pains will invite bitterness and resentment to come inside; temporary pleasures have hidden price tags. One day I will be able to ask Roe to forgive me, tell him that I forgive him and love him in Christ Jesus. Perhaps I will even be led to thank him for dislocating my shoulder only because it catapulted me to this wonderful healing place! Forgiveness is so liberating--but, temporary pleasures have hidden price tags.

© 2005 Stacey Lunsford, Philadelphia, PA. Arise & Shine For Jesus Ministry

Testimony: The Lord's Battle by Iris

2005-12-26T16:19:00.000-05:00

A reader-friend, Cindy Reid of Denver, CO, forwarded to her friend, Iris of Littleton, CO, an installment of my original inspirational series, FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT entitled "Be Still." This is Iris' response:

That (FFS) is perfect for me today. I guess it is for everybody. But anyway, I was at the Cancer Clinic this morning, and they were getting me all set up to begin the radiation. One of the things they did was take a Cat Scan. As the machine rolled me into position, this verse came to mind:
"Fear not, there is nothing to fear, for I am with you." It made me cry and tears ran out the corners of my eyes and down to my ears, and I couldn't stop them. My arms were positioned a certain way, and I couldn't move.

Stanice is sharing similar verses. I thought, "This isn't my battle. I simply take my position." It will be in the machine each day, and I will see the Lord's deliverance. He's telling me not to be afraid or discouraged. (Similar to what He said to me today.) He's telling me to go out and meet them tomorrow, (the treatments each day) and He will be with me." What more can I ask?

© 2005 Iris, Littleton,CO

Sign-up for Food for the Spirit: the inspirational email series, on my website's front page at www.stanice.com Also bless your readers and assist them in coming back for more by securing Food for the Spirit: the syndicated column. For more information on this original content available for newspapers, magazines, newsletters, and websites contact me at stanice@stanice.com

You Can by Regina Lacy

2005-12-25T11:02:00.000-05:00

YOU CAN DO IT
*
YOU CAN ACHIEVE IT
*
ALL U HAVE TO DO
IS PUT YOUR MIND 2 IT
& PERSUE IT!
*
(your dream is only as
impossible/POSSIBLE
as YOU make it)

© 2005 Regina A. Lacy

Don't Laugh by black chile

2005-12-23T03:02:00.000-05:00

don't laugh. i used a glue stick instead of my lip balm on my lips this morning. i was talking on the phone handling some very "important work related" issues when i grabbed what i thought was my lip balm out of the drawer. it felt the same going on but then i noticed that my lips became very terse. and then they started sticking together. i couldn't get the sh*t off. all day my lips have been chapped and in a very weird way.

i said don't laugh.

© 2005 black chile (For security's sake, the author remains anonymous--at least for now)

God a Theory? by Darlene Washington

2005-12-22T16:45:00.000-05:00

There is such a ruckus up here about creationism, I heard something this morning as I was going out the door and thought well when I was going to school.....EVOLUTION was a theory and God was the creator and now it is turned around backwards...God and creation is "theory" and evolution is how we came to be......things that make you go ummmmmmm.

© 2005 Darlene Washington, Harrisburg, PA

Testimony: Christmas with Christians@AOL by Frank Bertrand

2005-12-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

Some of you know that I was invited to give a talk at AOL Headquarters in November. God met us there! It was wonderful and the people sooo welcomed me into their auditorium and their hearts! One of the people that I met was Frank Bertrand. (I feel led to share that Frank bought a case of my books and had me to sign them for his family and friends. Actually, many people there bought multiple copies to give to others.)

Well, one of the groups within AOL that sponsored the talk was "Christians @ AOL" of which Frank is a member. Since, I was unable to make their Christmas Party on this past Monday, he was kind enough to share with me how God showed up and showed out at the party. Frank wrote:

"Karla Carrington put me in charge of the music...We were practicing our songs when a large man entered the Seriff Auditorium. He walked right up to us and said "You can't call this gathering a Christmas Party?" Three of us at once calmly stated, "We are Christians @ AOL and this is our Christmas Party." He then said, "Well, I am Jewish." I told him that he was welcome to stay and enjoy our party. He then said, "Can I join your choir? I smiled and gave him a copy of the music. He was one of the most joyous singers that we had. He and I and another singer formed a Trio and sang We Three Kings. Edward and I were the last to leave the party. Can anyone else but our Dear Lord Jesus Christ be in charge of our every breath? We both know the answer to that question."
© 2005 Frank Bertrand, Used with his permission.

Frank, thank you for sharing this testimony with us.

And to those of you who read and support Stanice's Open Mic, Soul Shout, and www.stanice.com Thank you for a years of blessings and prayers for me and my family.

Merry Christmas and a new year that will usher in a tremendously abundant season of God’s blessings and favor in and over you and your family. May He grant you the desires of your hearts, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. So be it!

We love you.
Stanice, son--Mike, granddaughter--Michal Zoe, and grand-TWINS due on Valentine Day 2006. Praising God from whom ALL blessing forever flow!

Gift for the Writer in You - Bonefire! Conference

2005-12-20T22:02:00.000-05:00

Daughters of the King Ministries
and St. Joseph’s AME Church of Durham, NC
Invites you to attend… Bonefire! Women's Conference February 3-4, 2006

Whether God calls you to write or not, you have a God-given vision for your life! When God gives you something, it stays with you morning, noon, and night until you do what He says to do, the way He says to do it. It becomes like fire shut up in your bones. It becomes so hot that you have to write it down. It becomes such a powerful force that you can barely move or think.

Come and hear from experienced authors and teachers who can help you to not only write your vision, but also give you spiritual and practical insight to find your purpose and fulfill your destiny!

The roster of national Christian authors and experienced teachers, reads as a "Who's Who" of the Christian publishing world, such as: Sharon Ewell-Foster; Jacquelin Thomas; Stanice Anderson; Michele Andrea Bowen-Brown; Rebecca Osaigbovo; Victoria Johnson; Marilynn Griffith and Claudia Burney, are confirmed to be at the Bonefire! Women's Conference. Collectively these distinguished authors have published numerous books and have hundreds of powerful testimonies to share with Conference attendees,about discovering God's purpose for their lives. They will share how they were able to articulate their vision through their writing.

Registration is just $69.00! To register, follow the Bonefire! registration link on the website above. Give a registration to a “Sistahfriend” for Christmas and we will send her a special keepsake from Dr. Gail Hayes confirming her registration!

Testimony: Tested by Aurora McLean

2005-12-19T14:19:00.001-05:00

Just a little note on what happened today:
All week has been finals at school. And on one test down at the bottom I wrote "LORD, PLEASE HELP ME PASS THIS TEST." Stanice, how about I passed it. Tears came to my eyes as I thanked the Lord for showing up and taking over. Also, I had a final math test this evening, Can you believe I made a 90. I was so happy. Cause math is not my subject. This has showed me that with just a little bit of faith, we can conquer all.

© 2005 Aurora McLean, Sanford, NC

StaniceSpeak:
So it is with the tests that come into our lives, as God grows us into women, children, and men that delight His heart. Like Aurora, with each test, let us pray, "Lord, please help me pass this test." And also let us not forget to give God the glory when we pass. While life might not be our strongest subject, it is His!

GodSpeak
1 Thessalonians 2:4
On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.

Job 23:10
But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

New Page by Terri Brown

2005-12-16T12:32:00.000-05:00

It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

New Page

Think about a book of blank pages. Each page is waiting for the moment it will capture the first strokes of the writers pen and store the memories of all that is written. Every new page is history in the making, because we are able to write whatever we choose. This new page is given to us in the form of a new day and every page of a book counts, because the pages of a book reveal the testimony of its author.

Every morning we awake we are given new grace and mercy. Grace is unmerited favor. That means even though we don't deserve it, we got it. That means no matter how bad of a thing you think you have done, or how you don't believe God will forgive you for what you said/did, you get new mercy. Each new day is an opportunity for anything to happen and for anything to come to pass. Each new page written is an opportunity for you to move closer to the things that God has promised.

Our lives are like books and depending on where you are in life (age), dictates how many pages of our books are written. Write what you want to see and don't let anything be written that you have to erase, because what gets written, becomes a part of you. Therefore the next time you awake and don't "feel" like getting out of bed, remember you have a book to complete, because someone is waiting to read what you were destined to write. Stay encouraged and keep moving forward.

Copyright 2005, Terri Brown
Luke 8:11 - The seed is the Word of God

Testimony: Crossing The Bridge by Patrice Gaines

2005-12-14T00:04:00.000-05:00

I was driving to Blufton, S.C., which is just outside Hilton Head. It was daylight but it was foggy and rainy. As I approached a bridge, my body tensed. I slowed down. Cars passed. My hands gripped the steering wheel. My heart pounded so loudly I could hear it over the radio. I was scared.

Cars passed me. The bridge seemed to loom into the sky. I thought I might drive off the edge. My right foot felt heavy on the pedal. I wanted to pull over but there was no place to stop. I was desperate to get off that bridge but it spread out at least another mile ahead of me. I turned off the radio and began to repeat aloud: "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want."

These words have always comforted me. They remind me of who I really am and what I am, therefore, capable of doing and handling. On the other side of the bridge, I asked, "Why?" What had happened to me?

I am still meditating and praying on the answer and it is evolving. But I received part of the answer on that other side of the bridge.

I have had some major life changes over the past few years--I left a longtime job and career, my marriage broke up, and I moved from one state to another. These are changes psychologists say are major stress factors. Yet I have denied this every step of the way. On that bridge, I was faced with the truth: Denial is not the same as surrender.

I have to acknowledge and grieve my losses and changes; acknowledge I miss friends and familiarity and even being married. I love my new home and new friends but I have to give my feelings their due, play them out before I can surrender them to God.

On that bridge every fear I was denying rose up to meet me: Will I be successful in my new career, starting a nonprofit organization to help women who have been incarcerated? Have I made the right moves? Only in acknowledging my questions can I then surrender my concerns. Otherwise, I am pressing them down, holding onto them.

Of course, I had to return across the bridge on the way back. I drove across it barely noticing. In fact, I kept looking for another bridge. Surely, this little measly bridge I had crossed couldn't be the one I crossed over--going. But a few miles past the bridge I realized there was no other bridge. The bridge that had seemed so high and expansive on the way over was a little, short crossing on the way back.

I laughed, knowing that I was already starting to surrender. "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want..."

© 2005 Patrice Gaines, Author, Motivational Speaker, Writer. To learn more about Patrice, as well as her books, speaking engagements, and nonprofit organization, The Brown Angel Center, go to www.patricegaines.com

Testimony: Feast on THE WORD Gatherings by DaMaris Hill

2005-12-12T18:52:00.000-05:00

by DaMaris Hill

I have been spiritually linked to Stanice for several years and an active participant in the “Feast on THE WORD” Gatherings for a year now. It is an intimate setting in which we explore complex issues regarding our careers, relationships and financial situations from a spiritual perspective. I consider our unique prayer and study sessions an intricate part of my Christian walk and development. Any issue presented in the “Feast” is addressed immediately through biblical study and sincere prayer. Each “Feast” is an enriching experience that brings me closer to God.

Through study and prayer I have a greater concept of God’s purpose for my life. I have started a business that allows me to use my unique talents and ideas to assist others in obtaining their goals. My business, Formula5 Consulting, bridges the gaps between the imagination and high expectations. It allows me to blend my passion for creativity with psychological theory and work experience to help my clients achieve success. While forming the business I was confronted with obstacles and distractions, but with the prayers and encouragement of my sisters in the “Feast on THE WORD,” I was able to discern my blessings from potential blunders. I am genuinely happy. I am helping to deliver others from debilitating pitfalls in their lives and foremost I am fulfilling my purpose.

If God shall lead you, please visit www.formula5consulting.com. If we can be of any assistance, please contact us at info@formula5consulting.com
May God bless you!

© 2005 DaMaris Hill

I Would Rather Live! by Stanice Anderson

2005-12-08T13:15:00.000-05:00

This morning, a good friend and sister in Christ, Lois, took the time and emailed me this photo along with these few potent words:

"I would rather live my life as if there is a God, and die to find out there isn't, than live my life as if there isn't, and die to find out there is."

I, in turn, feel led to share it with you and offer to walk with you as Jesus Christ, personally, through the resurrection power of the Holy Spirit, leads you through the "next steps." This is not a coincidence nor an accident that you are right here, right now. You must have been praying and/or somebody's praying for you. I know I have and it's likely that we've never even met. But in the spirit, we have...more than likely I have been where you are right now and I can tell you...through it all and perhaps even because of it all--IT'S GONNA BE ALL RIGHT. If it brought you to this day...to this crossroad--then, IT'S ALL GOOD.

Yes, even inaudible prayers have been seeping up out of your heart now for awhile and I thank God that He leads me even now to let you know that He has heard your prayers and that what he offers you is NOT RELIGIOSITY but RELATIONSHIP. A personal and intimate relationship with the Himself made possible only through His Son, Jesus Christ. John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Billy Graham fanned the fire of spiritual clarity in my heart one day when I heard him say, "Religion is man's way of trying to reach God but Jesus Christ is God's way of trying to reach man."

THIS IS THE DAY OF GOD'S FAVOR.

If you haven’t already, you can pray, right this minute. Why wait for a time that you don't know that you have? I didn’t wait. I was in my self-imposed dungeon of an apartment when I asked Jesus to come into my life and He did! Right where I was!

Pray with me…"Heavenly Father, I come to You in the Name of Jesus. Your Word says, "Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Acts 2:21). I am calling on You. I pray and ask Jesus to come into my heart and be Lord over my life according to Romans 10:9-10 which says, "If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." I do that now, Father, I confess that Jesus is Lord, and I believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead.

I am a Christian - a child of Almighty God, I am born again and I am saved! Amen!"

Congratulations, on your brand new beginning! You have just made the absolute, very best decision of your entire life!

And now, I say a pray for YOU.

Father God, I pray now for my new siblings through Christ Jesus. What a joy! Do for them what you've done for me and MORE besides. Reveal the plans You alone know that you have for their lives, plans for prosperity and not disaster. Your plans to give them a future and a hope just as You say in Your Word in the 29th chapter of Jeremiah, verses 11 through 14. Fill them now with your Holy Spirit so that they can do all things through Christ who strengths them. I ask this in Jesus' Name. Amen. So be it!

John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (New International Version)

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. (New International Version)

TODAY, YOU HAVE CHOSEN LIFE! AMEN. SO BE IT!

For more and to email me about your destiny-changing decision for Jesus, click to go a page on my website or email me at stanice@stanice.com

NOTE: If you already have a personal and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ, let's continue to grow in that relationship and let's share this spirit-led message with others who have yet to discover the peace and joy we've found in being Jesus lovers--and watch was God does through our obedience to spread the Good News, the Gospel of Jesus Christ--in whatever form.

© 2005 Stanice Anderson www.stanice.com

Today by Regina Lacy-Askew

2005-11-21T18:18:00.000-05:00

by Regina Lacy-Askew

It's all about doing the right thing
and what goodness, joy & peace
2 my soul that I can bring.
It is all about keeping the
focus on myself & not depending on anyone else.
It is about walking the straight & narrow path
and remembering that it's ok to laugh.
It is about fulfilling my destiny
and allowing my Higher Power
(who I choose to call GOD)
to guide me.
It is about keeping a positive frame of mind
and remembering when it comes to others,
to be nice and kind.
It is about staying clean & sober
and rembering it's not over until
GOD said's it's over.
When I get out of my bed and get on my knees to pray.
My main prayer is that the LORD guide my way.
I ask HIM to watch over my 4 kids
and to please keep them safe
and to help me along this journey
as I seek the LORD's face.
I must remember to keep the focus
and allow my HIGHER POWER
to continue to guide me along this
journey of recovery TODAY.

© 2005 Regina Lacy-Askew

I Can Only Imagine

2005-11-19T14:19:00.000-05:00

I Can Only Imagine

Testimony: Step Up and Receive by J.M.

2005-11-16T02:00:00.000-05:00

by J.M., Virginia
I wanted to take this time to thank you for coming into my life. Also thank you for being a great inspiration to my sister that she gladly shared you with me.

After losing my mother in Jan. I had to deal with the illness of my father. I was at the point where I felt I could not hear God's voice anymore in my life. My sister had just returned from your book signing. She called me with excitement and joy about the book signing and how God had given confirmation to her about things she had been wrestling with in her life.

I at the time was happy but felt sad because I wanted to share in the joy for my life to know when my break through from my heartache would come. My sister through love and grace came home to see our father while he was in the hospital and she allowed me to keep her, as she would say it "My Stanice Book." I felt really happy that she loved me that much she would part with such a treasure.

I took the book and began reading but finding myself not able to read as much as I wanted to because of the "baggage of life." On my 3-11 work shift, I had the time to start my journey on saving my life. I will not do anything physical but I was killing my self spiritually and did not know how to swim in the ocean without drowning. Just as you spoke of the "lifeguard" in your book, you are my lifeguard.

I would like to thank you because of what you have done; there will be a ministry in VA with the guidance of your book. I want to share the enlightenment I received just by reading your book in that we need to reach our women in the world. I am not a feminist but it is time our women step up and receive what God has for their life including me. Again thank you.

As you say after your prayers: So Be It!

© 2005, J.M., Virginia

Change is Possible! by Hassan Amin

2005-11-09T17:22:00.001-05:00

by Ph.D. Candidate Hassan Amin

Greetings: I’m a man of God and I come to you seeking to do what God has charged my life with, and I want to introduce my message and myself.

I am a living testimony that no matter how bad the circumstances of life, you can survive when God is the navigator of your ship. I wandered for over 25+ years in the wilderness, without any faith. I survived years as a child of molestation, started using hard drugs at 12 and developed a drug addiction, was disrespectful to my parents, and was a victim of my own self-destruction. I have been institutionalized in Franklin Delano Roosevelt Psychiatric Center, jailed for criminal acts, mental abuse in my marriages, a thief, liar, and have had clinical depression, the verge of many breakdowns, and have overdosed on drugs numerous times. I have physically hurt people because of my wicked ways, and drifted in hopelessness for most of my life. For a great deal of my life I was an enemy to society and a bad child who had forgotten my lord.

Through prayer and supplication, I came to realize God wanted so much more for my life than I had settled for. I have been clean from iniquity for close to 20 years and living a productive life, yet I believe God wants me to tell others of hope, happiness, and the prosperity of living through righteousness. I understand in this mission I have committed myself to I had to take myself out of the equation and give God control. I know there is a need to help others who may be experiencing a similar lifestyle of what I used to indulge in. I asked God to show me the way and to point me in the direction most needed, and through my own road to Damascus, my spiritual awakening has decreed…I must go tell my story. Let others hear my story and witness the success God has initiated in my life.

Having endured the many emotional traumas and difficulties, I’ve learned that one cannot hold onto past hurts and disappointments. Forgiveness greatly determines one’s ability to enjoy the glory of living. Abiding firmly in the belief God does not allow trials and tribulations for no reason, I have accepted my calling to stand on an altar and deliver a simple message, seek to educate, equip and encourage others, that if God can take my once wretched soul and cleanse me of my afflictions so can he for you.

Through my message my charge is to reach to the heart and souls of God’s people and to stand boldly and testify there are alternatives and change is possible if we allow belief to enter our hearts.

© 2005 Hassan Amin For talks and more info, email

Think LIFE by Min. Carol Williams

2005-11-02T14:12:00.000-05:00

by Minister Carol Williams, Wash DC

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord to declare his loving kindness in the morning and his faithfulness by night. The Lord is good and He is good all the time. It is because of who He is that I worship and praise Him. Are there any women who on today just want to take a moment with me and give God glory?

Today, I feel strongly in my spirit that I need to encourage someone. I am not sure who you are but please my sisters be encouraged by the "Special Seed."

I have been sent to encourage someone to "Think Life." Someone reading "The Seed" may be having thoughts of suicide, or may have gotten a bad diagnosis from the doctors and the prognosis isn't good. If you find yourself in any of these two situations this word is for you.

The " Seed" is found in John 10:10- The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

It is a trick of the enemy to get you to think any thing les than what God says. Well, my sisters do you know what God says? In order for you to know what God says you have to seek knowledge found in God's Word. We already see according to our text in John 10:10 that Jesus came to give you life.

Well, what exactly is life? Life is the quality that distinguishes a vital functional being from a dead body. We need to look at another word used in our title on today. The word think which means to form or to have in mind, to have as an intention, to have as an opinion, to reflect on, to call to mind, to have as an expectation, to center one's thoughts on. What are you thinking? God is thinking life. Jeremiah 29:11- For I know the thoughts I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace and not evil, to give you an expected end.

Someone reading this "Seed" may be thinking death. You are thinking about taking your own life. My sisters, in the Name of Jesus, I command you to live and not die so that you can declare the works of the Lord. The Lord has not only given you life but He is life. John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me though he were dead yet shall he live. Live! my sister. Live! my sister. Live! my sister.

Father, I ask you even now to touch the individual struggling with thoughts of suicide. I speak to you even now Satan, in Jesus' Name, and command you to loose my sisters minds and let them go. They will not commit suicide but they will live. I speak life over my sisters. In the name of Jesus. In Jesus name I pray Amen.

I Love You!!

© 2005 Minister Carol Williams, Washington, DC

Sunday Morning: After The Worship Hour by Neicy Wiggins

2005-10-30T15:00:00.000-05:00

Bibbs/St.James
by Neicy Wiggins, VA

Okay, breath slow
Relax my face
Don't smile too big
Breath slow
(You hypocitie! You fraud!)

It's okay...Calm down...I can do this
Don't talk too fast
Breath slow
(Liar! Cheat! Idolator! Just shut up!)

Go on now...This is my chance
Don't let your voice get too loud
Breath slow
(They don't want to talk to you! You're boring)

Step on up...Ease into the conversation
Don't laugh inappropriately
Breath slow
(You don't have anything to say to them. Get out now!)

This is not a hard thing...Just say hello
Don't talk about yourself too much
Breath slow
(You'll offend someone. You'll say something stupid.)
I know them...they've always been friendly
Don't ask a lot of questions
Breath slow
(Last warning. You won't have enough say. Go home!)

"Good Morning, Sisters. Pastor sure preached today didn't he?"
That wasn't too bad...they even smiled...gave me a hug
Don't be too long winded
Breath slow
(Now you did it. You have to figure out what to say next week.)

That was nice...good conversation...needed that fellowship
Don't end this awkwardly
Breath slow
(Don't trip when you walk away.)

"See you next week, Sisters!"
Okay, breath slow.

© 2005, Neicy Wiggins, Virginia

When I Am Free by Neicy Wiggins

2005-10-20T01:35:00.000-04:00

by Neicy Wiggins, Virginia
(art by Frank Morrison)

When I am Free...

I'll tell my Mama's story and not feel the need to make excuses

I won't need to be Daddy's little girl, because I'll realize my role as Princess to the King of Kings

I'll love my husband even more deeply and not hold onto him so tightly

I'll give my children the space to grow and become what God has for them

I'll stop forcing those who love me to prove it over and over and over

I'll befriend those who now scare me with their different looks and loud talk and fast ways

I'll visit parts of town that have remained off my beaten path

I'll give to others without the fear that I won't have enough left for me

I'll make a home for women and children who need the support of a family

I'll love others as God loves me with my flaws and cracks and a host of other imperfections

I'll say what I really believe and not care what others think

I'll laugh real loud and not worry about who hears me

I'll sing my favorite songs out loud outside of the shower

I'll dress boldly daring to wear red and yellow and purple and orange all at the same time

I'll say whatever's in my heart and know that it flows from a new place that is filled with the precious fragrance of the Holy Spirit

I'll move out of my fantasy life and live my dreams in the daylight

I'll do all of this and things that now I can't even imagine in this confined state that I now exist in

I'll live out my Mama's legacy which was always too big for just her.

© 2005 Neicy Wiggins

Do U Know Who U Are? by Carin Supriana

2005-10-18T00:04:00.000-04:00

by Carin Supriana, Nashville, TN

Do u know who u are?
Do u know who you belong to?
Do u know where u came from?
Do u know who created u?

Yes, we say…So, why don’t we
look like Him? Talk like Him or act
like Him?

It’s time to let the healing begin,
so that His light can shine thru us.

It’s time to allow deliverance to
take place in the inner spaces,
so that a smile can be on our faces.

It’s time to walk in obedience,
so that we can be blessed,
to be a blessing to others.

It’s time to let God fill us with His love,
so that we can love others.

So, I ask u again…
Do u know who u are?
Do u know who u belong to?
Do u know where u came from?
Do u know who created u?

© 2005, Carin Supriana, Nashville, TN

Runtoward's Xanga Site

2005-10-12T12:02:00.000-04:00

Runtoward's Xanga Site

Testimony: Cracked No More by L.J.

2005-10-11T00:29:00.000-04:00

by L.J., Pine Bluff, AR

I wanted to share my testimony with you and your readers. First of all, I would like to start by saying that with God all things are possible: but without God I'm nothing.

My story starts back in 1986. I was just as lost as the day was long. I started using Crack Cocaine with my husband and some friends at the time I had 3 small children who were all under the age of 10 yrs. old. Once I tried crack, I just couldn't stop because it gave me a high like no other. Anyway I kept using and using until one night I almost had sex with the crack dealer. That was the eye opener for me. That night I went home and started to think that must be something better in this world for me and my family. That was on May 30,1989.

That night, I prayed and cried out to my Lord and Savior to remove that want and need from my life. The next day I packed my three small children with only the clothes on our backs and a basket of dirty laundry and left my husband. I could not face him knowing that his friend the crack dealer was trying to get me to have sex with him. I also just did not have the desire to be with my husband at that time because I blamed him at the time for my crack habit. But only the Lord could make me face the fact that I allowed myself to get into the worldly things that I was into at the time. After packing and leaving with my three children, I moved into my mother and step-father's home and that's when my healing really began.

The Lord allowed me to look back over my life and realize that I had allowed the Devil into my life full force. My children and I had to start all over from scratch but the Lord was with us every step of the way. I didn't go to rehab but I did begin to let the Lord direct my path in every way possible. I began to witness to a group of children at first then the Lord sent me into the church that I had joined to start sharing my testimony with everyone and anyone that would listen.

As I traveled on my journey the Lord open doors that I thought were closed off to myself. I began to pray and meditate 24/seven because I could not make it without Him by my side at all times. The lord blessed me to be able get into a housing apartment with 3 bedrooms for my children and myself. He allowed me to have respect for myself and for Him at all times.

I have edited a lot things out of this letter so that I can just let others know that not only do the poor, disadvantaged, and under-educated people get caught up in drugs, alcholism, or prostitution but that middle and upper class people get tossed through the storms of life also.

I can trully and faithfully say that God has been my rock in the weary places, food when I was hungry, my water when I was thursty, my bridge over troubled water and shelter in the time of storms. That has been almost 15 yrs. ago but I still think back to where the Lord has brought me from and all I can say sometimes is "Thank You Jesus!"

Today, two of my children have graduated from High School and made something of themselves. My youngest daughter also gradute from High School with a full-paid scholarship to the college of her choice which is Tennessee State University. So all who don't think that they can turn their life around after going throught the Storms of life, I can trully say that with God all things are possible.

As for myself I continue to share my testimony to the young and the old because Crack don't care who it takes out, but God does. I am and have been working for the State of Arkansas now for almost 14 yrs. now and I owe everything to my Alpha and Omega--the One and Only Jesus Christ.

I know that this was and is long but the Lord would not let me stop once I got started and I will always do as he allows me to when it comes down to His Will and His ways because of His mercy and grace I have made it this far.

© 2005, L.J., Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Josephine's Testimony by JOSEPHINE BROWN

2005-10-05T10:38:00.000-04:00

I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR PRAYING FOR US .... WHEN YOU TOLD ME THAT YOU WERE PRAYING I HAD NO IDEA THAT HURRICANE RITA WAS COMING AND WE WOULD GET WINDS AND RAINS OFF OF IT, BUT WE DID AND CHECK THIS OUT KATRINA WAS IN LOUISIANA AND WE DIDN'T GET A WIND, BUT RITA WAS DESTINED FOR TEXAS AND WE GOT WINDS AND RAIN.... THERE WERE TREES DOWN ALL AROUND US, POWER LINES DOWN AND THE CABLE WAS OUT, BUT, BECAUSE OF GOD'S GRACE, OUR POWER WAS RESTORED IN 16 HOURS INSTEAD OF 2-3 DAYS, WHEN PEOPLE RIGHT ON THE NEXT STREET DIDN'T GET POWER UNTIL YESTERDAY...SO YOU KNOW STANICE I THANK GOD FOR PUTTING IT IN YOUR HEART TO PRAY FOR ME AND MY FAMILY AND THANK YOU FOR BEING OBEDIENT.....AMEN.

JOSEPHINE BROWN, NATCHITOCHES, LA

Note from Stanice: When the Lord puts someone on your heart or drops a thought about a person into your mind...act on it and pray. The Holy Spirit will quicken you on what to pray, as well as show you the "what next?" if anything. Listen and obey. Psalm 42:7 "Deep calls to deep..."

Crossroads by Stephanie D Smith

2005-10-03T00:47:00.000-04:00

by Stephanie D Smith

Dear Lord what am I to do. I want to
Do Your will but the worries of
This world will not allow me to.

I am in constant turmoil between what
Is right and what is wrong. I hear You
Calling me to Your Side.

I toss and turn at the decisions I have
To make. I cry out for You to hear my call. I beg You to hold me as I struggle with everyday life.

One way or the other I will answer the
Call that You have placed on my life. For
You died so that I should have life more abundantly.

I have come to a crossroad in my life but
Because you are by my side I know that all will
Turn out for the better. For I hearken to Your voice
And I will obey Your will.

© 2005, Stephanie D Smith, North Little Rock, Ar

Awakening to the Power Within by Mary Glen Scot

2005-09-20T03:10:00.000-04:00

The Testimony of Mary Glen Scot*...
Wednesday of last week I went to Mass and I prayed to the Lord: "I don't know why I have never thought about this before Lord, but I am going to surrender the entire book to you. I have done all of the footwork I possibly can to get it started, and it is doing quite well, but I can't think of anything else to do, and I am surrendering it entirely up to you Lord. You have always been in charge of it anyway."

The Talent of Mary Glen Scot...
is shared with the world in her first book, Awakening to the Power Within: Breaking Free From a Destructive Relationship. Mary Glen Scot devoted forty years of her life and marriage to the futile goal of “curing” her alcoholic husband. Through her own journey of self-discovery, she now offers practical methods that will help you apply the principles of the Twelve-Step Program to your own daily challenges. Here is an excerpt from Chapter 18: Developing a Relationship with a Higher Power

I believe there’s a special Spirit, generally understood as being a Higher Power in Twelve-Step philosophy, which moves through our meetings and one another. To my mind, a feeling of spiritual healing that we can see, hear, and feel in our groups when we are gathered together. That Spirit turned my life around in a new direction, and a new way of thinking and behaving. I formed a spiritual connection with my religious God that brought me a great sense of peace and acceptance.

When I am able to separate my spiritual thinking from the doctrines and dogma of my religious faith, the spirituality of the program and my religion fit like “hand in glove.” Being in the spiritual twilight of my journey on this earth, I need both my church and my great Twelve-Step fellowship. A lot of the lessons I learned as a child in Sunday school are the same basic philosophies as those in the program, particularly the principles that those are based on, “I have a Power Greater Than Myself,” and “Love one another.”

I was always searching for the answers to the big mystery of life when I was young, curious about my Spirit’s origin. I wonder, now, was it by asking God to show me His face—proof that he really existed—that I invited Him into my life? Did that lead to the beginning of my journey toward my spirituality as it is today? I think, possibly, my curiosity and hunger for something more inspired me to keep looking for fresh insights about God. However, I believe now that each one of us in a Twelve-Step Program has a spiritual experience leading us to find a Power Greater in a different, unique manner; and what works for me may not work for you.

© 2005 Mary Glen Scot, Las Vegas, NV. Book published by iuniverse. Click for more details.
* Note: The three names make up the author's first name. She is orginally from Scotland. She doesn't use her last name (publically) as is the norm in 12-step anonymous program culture.

Daily Seed: But... by Terri

2005-09-19T00:30:00.000-04:00

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh (Luke 6:45)

But...

"Do you trust God?" "Yes..but..." "Do you believe that He will do what He promised in His word?" "Yes...but..." "Do you think He is taking too long?" "Yes...but..." "Do you think you can handle your situation better than God can?" "Yes...I mean...No...but..." The word 'but" cancels out everything that you have spoken prior to saying it and allows people to know what's really in your heart. Example: "By Jesus stripes I am healed, but, my head still hurts." You have just canceled out words of faith with words of circumstance.

Speak only words of faith, if your situations is looking as though nothing has changed, don't allow anything other than what you desire to come from your mouth. The situations may look like..the bill collectors are still calling...your relationship is going to hell in a hand basket... however faith speaks...My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches and Glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)....A gentle answer turns aways wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger (stop nagging and complaining) (Proverbs 15:1). If you believe something you just believe it. Nothing can get you to move from what you truly believe...if you are rooted and grounded there.

Take the time to think about the words that leave your mouth...do you even have to stop and think why you said what you said? If so imagine what type of future you are creating. Example: I am drawing my dream house (words of faith), however I'm not quite sure if I draw this house I will be able to have it (doubt), I keep erasing everything I draw (saying but), I get frustrated (speaking words God didn't say) and destroy the drawing (stepping out of faith). Don't give up on something you know God called you to do, by saying but...because the word but will only have you drawing and destroying dreams instead of living them. Stay encouraged and keep moving forward!

Terri
Luke 8:11 - The seed is the Word of God
Copyright 2005

Tawana Williams: Unarmed but Dangerous

2005-09-16T02:30:00.000-04:00

(Tawana with Les Brown)
Introducing my friend, motivational speaker, fellow-author, and sister-in-Christ Jesus, Tawana Williams.

In her new book, UNARMED BUT DANGEROUS, Tawana tells her story of being born without arms, surviving major traumas, including drug addiction—overcoming it all—and of her daughter's miraculous birth. "I hope readers will feel inspired by my story of overcoming the odds rather than feeling sorry for me. I use my feet and other body parts to do just about anything that someone with arms and hands can do—-even braid hair and write a check," says Tawana.

Watch demonstrations of God's grace and power in Tawana's life (1) Brushing Teeth and (2) Caring For April.

Website www.unarmedbutdangerous.com and email tawana@unarmedbutdangerous.com

what is this black chile doin' in russia? - Driving In Moscow

2005-09-14T11:54:00.000-04:00

Perfect Parking in Moscow

Driving In Moscow
by black chile

circa 6/03--scared to death. shortly after arriving to post. venturing out into traffic was a traumatic experience. watching from the passenger side was bad enough. trying to wrap myself around the fact that i would soon be knee deep in it was too much to handle. in the monstrous government white chevy tahoe you don't pay much attention to it. you're so far up and there's so much of the car around you, you feel like a fighter pilot dropping bombs and not knowing where they hit. so when you feel the crunch under your wheel, you think it's a bag or something, when in actuality you rolled over a russian lada again. those cars are entirely too small. and invariably there's always a russian guy hanging out the window smokin a cig. even in the winter. i used to think they were just letting the smoke out of the car. not true. there's not enough room in there to fit so he has to hang the leftovers out the window. his head, left arm and upper left chest area.

in my own vehicle, which is a considerably smaller SUV, i'm actually closer to them. there were times when it was all i could to do to get to the side of the road and cry. cry baby. that's right. ballin'. i'm not ashamed.

now. circa yesterday--sept 2004. 5pm. today i had parked on the sidewalk at a 78 degree angle because the a _ _ h _ _ e in front of me pulled into a parking spot that was too small. his car is a car in the technical sense. you have to use a key to start it and it had a window and 4 wheels. however, this car is half the size of a Ugo so instead of pulling in parallel to the street, he pulls in perpendicular with half of his car up on the sidewalk. perfect fit. i'd like to say that i have never done this but sorry... i truly believe that once they get parking meters and tow trucks here, they'll be on their way. in the meantime, when in rome...

when i come out at 5, some other person has blocked him in. my car was too big to block. that's right, anyone who isn't state department has to park out on the street. just another reminder to let the other agencies that are here know where they are in the pecking order. it's ok. you have to give up your first born and a pint of blood to park on the compound and the security checks... forget it.

as usual, i follow the access road out until i reach novinsky blvd.--"the ring road". i pop in my traffic sonata "wild, wild west" by Will Smith to get me in the traffic mode. no, i didn't buy it. not per se. don't ask. i'm always surprised at what is available in the kiosks on the street. i hear Will Smith singing "Jim West, desperado..." uh oh, it's on baby.

traffic is one of the few places i feel equal. i start out. i know there is 2.6" of road to get from the right lane i have pulled into and the far left lane (6 lanes over) that i need to take to get to the tunnel which will put me on the other side of Nove (novee) Arbat. if i miss the tunnel i have to turn right on nove arbat and go out of my way 30 minutes east and many miles to get to a place where i can turn around and get on the other side of the street. or i could use the turnaround at nove arbat and go back the other way on novinsky blvd--30 minutes north and many miles to get to... well, you get the idea neither option is acceptable to me anymore. 30 minutes north or east, 30 minutes back to your starting point, then 1 hour home. you do the math.

russians smell fear. i take off and casually glide over 9 lanes, that used to be 6, while everyone is clapping enthusiastically at the ease of which i have maneuvered my way through this quagmire. damn, i nodded off there. actually it's more like, stop 1/2", drive 1/2", stop 1/2"... everyone's honkin, yellin', and flippin the bird and all at 60, 70, 80 miles an hour. only the mafia gets to go 90 and above. it's the russian autobahn. 6 lanes quickly become 9 when there are more than 7 cars on the road. "swallow your pride, don't let your lip react. You don't wanna see my hand where my hip be at..." Will is poetic, isn't he? keeping in mind that they have no concept of personal space, this also goes for your car. sometimes they get so close. this also used to send me screamin' to the curb. but now i don't look and of course the big car wins. my overseas insurance covers everything for any reason, in any place. surprisingly, it's about half the cost of my insurance in the US.

flippin the bird is pretty universal but the russians add their own special touch. the little dears. they point it at you like a gun. special. classic.

i make it over to the far left lane and invariably there are always 1 or more cars that follow me. the applicable rule here being--follow whatever or whoever gets you through. on this particular occasion a guy follows me and his car is so small, i didn't see him until we both got over to the left lanes and he pulls up next to me and gives me the thumbs up sign. i wink and quickly get back to traffic mode. can't think about that now. my next move is coming up. "then through the shadows, in the saddle, ready for battle.."

after the tunnel i steal my way back over to the right lanes because i will soon be coming to a point where it is actually legal to make a U turn on this street--this 12 lane street--6 actual lanes in both directions. 2 blocks go by. everybody and their brother is making a U turn at this point. you don't want to get caught in that. i did--once. they didn't start the U turn caravan until there's a break in the oncoming traffic. i was the break. i hesitated and ended up waiting 20 minutes just to continue in my lane. after 20 minutes--straight to the curb. in tears of course. today is a different story.

timing is everything. once over in the right lanes, you can zoom through. if you get caught at any of these lights on the ring road, i hope you packed a lunch. not that it matters. russians don't seem to get the concept of the red color of the red light. in fact the yellow light starts flashing before the green light. i've sat in traffic when my light turned green several times over before the crossing traffic stopped. and there's usually a militia guy standing there. just standing there. doing nothing. just standing there. there--facing the red light, looking at the traffic. just standing there smoking a cig of course. why is he here?

next. the bridge. believe it or not i have to make my way back to the left lanes to cross the bridge. bob, weave, break to the left, steal home, touchdown!!! whew, if i get caught in the left lanes, i could end up in Vladivostock. look it up. i'm on the bridge. the 11 lanes on my side that used to be 9, that used to be 6 now have to come back to 6 to get over the bridge because the bridge is--well, finite. this will not stop them from making a new lane in the oncoming traffic if the traffic on that side of the street is sparse. i call this the pied piper relay. ingenuity at work again. some folks now choose to drive up on the bridge walkway that's designed for the pedestrians. it's the only lane that's clear--except for, well--the people.

i make it across. back to the right to catch my exit. if i miss my exit, i have to go 30 minutes east... hey, wait a minute. i think you already know this story. my exit is 3 inches from the ring road. coming off the ring road at 60 miles an hour. break it down to 15 in 5.8 seconds. "up to sundown, rollin around, see where the bad guys oughta be found and make 'em lay down."

once on the main street off the exit, i'm headin' home. i can relax a bit because the traffic slows to a mere 40 miles per hour in the residential areas. i pop in santana. i'm rockin'. i drive pass the usual mcdonald's on boishoi ordinka, a myriad of churches, kassas (money change places), kiosks, salons, renok (open-air market), a monastery and i see my sign SERPOHOVSKY VAL (serpohovsky blvd.) i'm prepared to make my right. my sail is now blowing at an even keel. it's almost relaxing. almost. i've long forgotten about the stares. actually, i've learned to live with them. i do remember not to do anything embarrassing. the light is red. here comes a russian guy running with a baby carriage trying to catch the light. this in itself is enough to cringe. but the added absurdity was that he was carrying and drinking a bottle of beer and smoking a cigarette with his right hand and weaving the carriage through traffic with the left hand. the kid was screamin with delight. crosswalk? what is that? the lines are there. i see them. their big and white. oh, i guess he doesn't think the crosswalk is for him. still--a baby? i just shake my head and go back to Santana "give me your heart, make it real, or just forget about it."

i make the right turn after the light changes. 10 cars have driven up on the sidewalk to pass me because they had more pressing engagements than to wait for the GREEN light. i pass the park where i run and tell myself to remember that a big dog is taking a dump on the path. no, they don't pick up after them. some mornings it's like an obstacle course. i pull into my entrance and prepare to scan my card that will let me in the parking lot. the security arm rises before i can scan my card. then once in, Sergey is standing blocking my way. i say doubre dien (good day), kagdela (how are you?) he says hadosho, (ok) then he starts to motion to someone behind the gate. then i see all the guards that work at our parking lot. they're bringing a bouquet a flowers. FOR ME!!!

how sweet is that? let me explain. since i've been here and living out in the general public, i don't have the protection that one might expect on the compound. but i wanted it that way. i wanted to experience the city. but with that view one must take into consideration the security risks. shortly after arriving i tried to make nice with the guards at my building, russians do not take kindly to people who are not pasty pale white like them. just in case. they were casual. i began to cook little things for them. a chocolate cake, some fried chicken, cookies, guacamole dip and chips, homemade soup and cornbread, etc. i don't do it all the time and i know they don't expect it. but they look out for me. when i go out running, one of them will stand at the gate just to make sure i'm ok. when i come late from some very important "meeting" at Ye Ole Irish Pub, they meet me at the street. sometimes i would come down to go to work and everybody's car would be completely covered with snow. except mine. it would be cleaned off and ready to go. i would pass the guard's gate and he would tip his hat and smile. on other occasions i might find my car washed and waxed. sometimes, i found litle chocolate candies left at me door. it's the little things.

so when they gave me the flowers and showered me with little kisses, i was overwhelmed. russians are not that easy to warm up to. so, i guess i'm in. so to speak.

back to the indy on monday.

© 2005 black chile (For security's sake, the author remains anonymous--at least for now)

Tiff’s Gifts by Tiffany A. Bryant

2005-09-13T14:45:00.000-04:00

by Tiffany A. Bryant
I’ve always enjoyed creating things with my hands. My grandmother and her neighbor used to save their presents for me to wrap—I love curling the ribbon, and placing the strands, just so... my own personal works of art! That lead to my love of Christmas trees (I even put ribbon on those!) - I decorated everyone’s tree: mother, grandmother, friends, cousins, I was even known to fix trees in department stores!! In ’96, I was at a friend’s house and saw these really beautiful Christmas ornaments, made of African material! They were colorful, creative, and cultural! I looked at them and decided I would decorate my tree with the same type of ornaments. I began making the ornaments & gave them out as Christmas gifts—the next year, I sold a few to friends and co-workers. But not as many as I expected. That’s when the “whispers of doubt” began: “You spent all that $ on material and no one really wants these things…” & “They are alright for your tree but everyone else is buying more classy items from the store”, “What you are doing is no big deal!!!”

Another year went by and I made a few more ornaments. I added different material to widen my customer base, sold a few more. Then a bazaar at the church! I decorated my table & waited for the onslaught of Christian, African-Americans to buy all my stuff! I was even told that at past bazaars, the pastors’ wife loved someone else’s inventory and bought all their pieces! I just knew that was going to be me!! My stuff was soo cute! It was cultural, creative, cute and classy! WRONG!! I sold 10 or so ornaments, yippee! My parents, grandmother, brother, and best friend bought some as gifts once again, thank God for those people always in your corner! They boosted my little esteem so I decided not to give up...THEN I went into a store in Leesburg Outlets, that sold other people’s crafts and made an appointment to show them my ornaments. The lady thought they were “cute” but not right for their store! So, the whispers came again: “You are wasting $$ you don’t have”, “Pay your bills girl and leave this stuff to the professionals”, “You can’t sell your stuff to Black people, why do you think White people would buy it either?”, “Other people can make this stuff, what about yours is special?”

Yet more years went by...a co-worker and I saw some beaded ornaments in a catalog. I decided that they would be cute on my tree (once again) I headed to Michael’s and bought beads, wire, and ribbon. I worked all weekend and they really turned out well! I showed them to my co-workers on Monday and they loved them! They actually wanted me to make stuff for their trees...then more bazaars! This time at school and church! I began personalizing the beaded ornaments by putting charms on them! THEY LOVED THEM! I also added wine charms to the “merchandise list”! One colleague asked me to make ornaments for her daughter’s basketball team—the whole team! I made their basketball #’s in the teams colors! Another friend ordered 25 wine tags for an upcoming Christmas party! It was the first time I felt like what I was doing was actually ok...I realize while reliving this that God sent the right people to encourage me during each holiday season! There was always 1-3 customers that encouraged me through their purchases.

In 2003, at the urging of friends, I bought business cards & gave myself a name: Totally Tiffany! Designs. People began asking me to make gifts for them when they needed something special! I made beaded and cloth ornaments, napkin rings, bracelets, shadowboxes, picture collages, scrapbooks ~ even personalized some items! I participated in more bazaars, & began working on different ministries that allowed me to use my creative gifts that God has given me. Last year, I added inspirational bookmarks, little girls’ headbands, angel pins w/inspirational verses attached, and jeweled bracelets. God is always dropping ideas in my spirit! God confirmed once again when my best friend gave me an engraved key chain for Christmas, with “Totally Tiffany” on it and another friend gave me a storage bin to put my stuff in! I was so touched when I realized how much they believed in me & what I was doing!

Last month, a good friend registered the name of a website for me! My new name is “Tiff’s Gifts” and I have been blessed to be a part of a church that has a business card directory, along with supportive, and encouraging members all around! I’ve been able to create a small bit of happiness for people! I love to see the smiles on their faces when they see a piece of jewelry, ornament, or love the shadowbox created just for them! I see each smile from them as a smile from God—saying that He is pleased that I am using my gifts! No matter how small…

© 2005 Tiffany A. Bryant, Reston, VA

From Tragedy To Triumph by Rev. Nicole S. Mason, Esq.

2005-09-12T15:41:00.000-04:00

By Rev. Nicole S. Mason, Esq.

It was a warm summer night and I was planning to attend a pool party. I decided to ride through the neighborhood to see if I saw him. Although I knew he was a drug dealer, I wanted to remain friends with him. For several months I didn’t speak to him, because he had stood me up far too many times. However, I had just graduated from Howard University and I was feeling somewhat festive. I wanted to see if I could just stumble upon a late night rendezvous. I rode through the neighborhood and he was standing on his usual corner. I stopped the car and he immediately jumped in. I pulled down the street and we began talking. On this night, our discussion was very different than in times past. We weren’t talking about a late night rendezvous, but my friend looked dogged tired and he kept saying that he was tired. I thought he meant just tired from hanging in the streets, but I would soon learn that his tired was something deeper.

As we sat in the car talking, I happened to look out of the side back window. To my dismay, there was a gun barrel pointing inside and all hell broke loose! Gunfire erupted all around me. I started hollering and calling on Jesus. No, I wasn’t saved, but I like many people know that in times of trouble, Jesus is the first name to call on! When I called on Jesus, I could feel something lift me up out of the car and begin to push me down the street. As I was being pushed, I could still hear the gunfire behind me. I ran for about two blocks and my mind told me that I had been shot. I started responding to my mind. Your mind is very powerful. This is why it is important to watch what you think! I could hardly breathe or walk. I looked up and two people were standing on a porch. I asked them “Am I shot?” They said no and told me to come into their house. The woman told me to lie down on the floor and the man called 911.

When I went back to my car, because I wanted the police to know that it was my car and that I had been sitting there when the gunfire erupted, I learned that my friend had been killed and his body was still in my car. I nearly lost my mind, when I looked inside the car and his limp, riddled body lay there motionless. After that tragedy, I went through an emotional journey that led me right to the feet of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! It was during this time in my life that I found out what I was really made of and that I couldn’t do anything without the Lord. I learned how to use my spiritual resources, because all of my physical resources were depleted and useless. I had to go through it, so that I could tell you today that GOD IS FAITHFUL! I made it through that situation and I went on to law school.

After completing law school and passing the bar exam, the Lord called me to preach. I have been preaching now for 4 years. I left the practice of law to go into ministry full time. I am confident that the Lord saved me for a time such as this to encourage, educate and empower Women with the Word of God. I started a ministry called SISTERGRAM Ministries where my mission is to reach millions of women with the Word of God, to give them hope and to inspire them to be all that God has created them to be. My life took a major turn on June 7, 1992. God saved my life and I have never looked back. I encourage you to take the tragedies that have occurred in your life and turn them into triumphs by giving your life to the Lord today. God can take your misery and turn it into your ministry! I am a living witness!

In closing, the case was solved and the perpetrators brought to justice. One of the shooters is now a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! God can do anything but fail!!!

© 2005 SISTERGRAM Ministries * P.O. Box 5453 * Hyattsville, MD 20782 * 301-455-1903 * revnsmason@aol.com * www.sistergram.com

Cookie Blues submitted by Cheryn

2005-09-11T14:00:00.000-04:00

what is this black chile doin' in russia?

2005-09-08T16:31:00.000-04:00

St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow
last night i had to shut my bedroom balcony door because mr. hawk was lettin me know that he was comin to visit me real soon. jesus. another freakin winter in this s _ _ _hole.

i had some canned foods and rice and other food that have been in my cabinet since i got here. i packed it all up and took it out to this a little pregnant girl that stands at the metro begging. (this is a whole other story) she wasn't there this week so i see an old little shriveled up lady standing behind a tree with her hand out. it's so pitiful. i put the big box of food next to her and she looks at me and asks repeatedly... "why? but why?... why?" i tell her to just take it. don't ask why. she of course is crying but as i walk away she grabs me and tries to wrap her arms around me, which of course is impossible.

a militsa guy comes up to me and asks me for my docs and what i was doin. i tell him to mind his business. which comes out as "this does not concern you" in Russian. i ain't scared no mo. that's right baby. bring it on. he asked me what i was doing to that woman. i said nothing and that she was my mother. he looked at me funny. she then proceeds to hit him on the arm with an umbrella and tell him to leave her alone. we share a slight smile.

i leave because i'm illegally triple parked in front of the metro. the equivalent of pulling up in front of the embarcadero metro on market st. in san francisco and parking your car. impossible right? not here. by the time i get back to my car someone has already blocked me in and i have to wait while he buys his cigarettes. does he rush to get back? does he apologize for blocking me in? hell no. do i do it to the person i have blocked? i think you know the answer to his question. and through it all, the militsa guy is sittin on a bench enjoying the sun and smokin a cig of course.

© 2005 black chile (For security's sake, the author remains anonymous--at least for now)

BEING ME By Valerie Grimes

2005-09-08T01:45:00.000-04:00

www.alloilpaint.com
By Valerie Grimes

TO BE ME.
IS TO BE REAL, OPEN AND HONEST
YET! IT SEEMS TO BE, SO HARD TO DO.
MY MIND SAYS ONE THING.
MY HEART FEELS ANOTHER.
THE UNBALANCE OF NOT BEING ME..!
WHEN I NEED TO BE..
I SAY WHAT I WANT INSIDE, BUT NO ONE HEARS ME..
TO SEE THE PAIN, I MUST LET GO.. GAIN NO RESPECT,
SO I MUST REMAIN SANE.
MY MIND IS FULL OF EXPRESSIONS, GOING THROUGH TRANSITIONS.
YET SOMEHOW I REMAIN CALM. BEING AT PEACE WITHIN.
LETTING GOD!

Why I wrote this poem. I HEARD A SISTER IN CHURCH, GIVING HER STORY ON HOW GOD FORGAVE HER. SHE HELD ON A PAIN FOR EIGHT YEARS, BUT IT WAS TOO PAINFUL TO KEEP. SO SHE HAD TO LET HER HUSBAND KNOW ABOUT IT. HE FORGAVE HER. NOW SHE CAN FORGIVE HERSELF. I HAD TO DO THE SAME THING. MY HEART WAS FULL OF EMOTIONS. HOW CAN I DO GOD'S WORK KNOWING I TO HAD UNFORGIVENESS TO LET GO? SO THAT MOMENT, IN CHURCH I TURNED TO MY SISTER, AND SAID, "I FORGIVE YOU. I AM SO SORRY, WE ALL MAKE MISTAKES, I LOVE YOU SIS, I AM SO SORRY, I FORGIVE YOU." NOW WE ARE A TEAM. I MUST LEARN TO LET GO AND LET GOD. NOW I AM ON THE PATH TO WALK WITH HIM. I, TOO, FORGIVE MYSELF. I DO FORGIVE THEM THAT HURT ME. I FORGIVE AND IT FEELS SO GOOD BECAUSE IT IS REAL. GOD IS REAL. NOT PHONY. REAL. WE BELIEVE. WE TRUST. WE HAVE HOPE. WHERE THERE IS LOVE, GOD IS THERE TOO. HE IS EVERYWHERE. GOD BLESS.

© 2005 Valerie Grimes, Fayetteville, NC

Adopting & Mentoring Families Affected by Katrina

2005-09-06T21:50:00.000-04:00

Hello Chosen Ones, introducing, Lynn, my friend & supporter.

I am Lynn Johnson, a Life Coach located in Maryland (Washington, DC area). I have the #1 motivational internet based radio show "The Lynn Johnson Motivational Radio Show." My show is aired all over the world and carried in over 100 countries.

I have embarked on fundraising efforts and humanitarian efforts. At this time, I am also setting up families who are willing to adopt other families and mentor them through this terrible tragedy. My radio show is also accepting donations for as little as $1.00 to go towards the families that have reached out to us directly for help. Please, can you pass this information on and direct any other people who are interested in helping? You can access my show and my site at http://asklynnjohnson.com. Thank you in advance. Prosper in all ways, "Coach Lynn"

Testimony: Prayer Works! by Rosa

2005-09-02T21:37:00.000-04:00

Artist: Annie Lee
Thursday, Sept 01, 2005 8:16 AM
Good Morning,
A co-worker of mine son was in a tragic accident. A couple of days ago he fell 20 feet, developed a blood clot on the brain and is suffering from internal injuries. Part of his brain had to be removed. The doctors' says that he is in grave condition. He is newly married and his wife is expecting their first baby. Please keep them in your prayers as we know - God is able!!!! ~ Rosa

Friday, Sept 02, 2005 8:36 AM
God is faithful! Although this young man has not yet opened his eyes, he was squeezing his Mom's hands on yesterday. To God be the Glory ~ prayer really does change things. Thank you for your continued prayers. God Bless ~ Rosa

Art: Annie Lee

Is Your Light Shining?

2005-09-01T02:17:00.000-04:00

This month our “Seed” will be taken from Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” On today I would like to ask you a question “Is Your Light Shining?”

The Lord is charging us today to let our light shine. It is sad to say that we are living in a world where so many people are professing to be a Christian, but no one other than those in our immediate circles in church can determine that we are even saved. If you name the name of Christ, somebody other than your church family needs to know that you are saved. If your light is truly shining someone who is not saved and has observed your lifestyle should be compelled to ask the question, “What must I do to be saved?” Sadly, we have gotten so caught up on observing and doing traditional things in the church, but we have forgotten about allowing our light to shine.

One of the purposes of light is to be able to see. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like a long period of darkness. I want to be able to see. When an individual has not accepted the Lord as their personal Savior they are living in darkness. Once you have accepted the Lord as your personal Savior you have been given light because Jesus is the Light of the World. You and I are charged to share the Light. We can’t continue to have our light hidden under a basket or table. We must let our light shine through in everything we say and do. The text tells us to let it shine before men, that they may see your good works. Men need to see our good works not so that we may get the glory, but to glorify your Father which is in Heaven. I leave you with two questions, “Is your light Shining?” or “Is anyone seeing your light?”

© 2005 Carol Williams. Weekly radio broadcasts, You Are Somebody, every Saturday at 12 noon or Sunday at 8:00pm on WFAX 1220 AM(Metro Wash., DC) or via Internet www.wfaxam.com