tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83821060431805077502024-03-09T14:03:18.556-06:00The Written RebelWords have lives of their own. They breathe and flow deep through chasms of hurt and pain, add life to dry areas, and plant seeds that cause growth...Rebel against the machine of mediocrity and speak life by the words of your mouth..rebel..rebel..rebel.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.comBlogger149125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-7218116970507298342019-06-09T19:56:00.000-05:002019-06-09T20:03:49.238-05:00You Are The AnswerFunny story--I know a guy M, who is always fixing things. Like I mean it can be the muffler on his van, the alternator in his car, the hard drive on his desk top, the speaker in his television. I mean the man is ALWAYS fixing something. I call him Handy Manny and tell him next time I am gonna have to look for him fixing the pot holes on his Brooklyn street!!! As much as I laugh about what he is always fixing and creating and building and making, there is something that I admire about his tenacity. If he can do it, he does it. He will try to figure out almost anything. Yet he knows his limits. He will do what he can then call the professional to complete the work. He always says to me, I know what I can do but I am not afraid to get the help I need. And he's not. What I notice about him, (and another reason why I call him Handy Manny) he will not only ask for help but he will BE the help when needed.<br />
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What a testament, right. Can we say that? Can we be reflective and really say that we TRIED? Like we put in all our efforts to be the ANSWER to the call, the SOLUTION to the problem? Often we look for others when we truly are the key. We mumble and grumble. Huff and puff. Waiting for someone else to "get it right," "work it out," when the person we are truly waiting for is looking back at us in the mirror. I know I know I have said this before. You gotta deal with you first.<br />
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Hear me out, stop waiting for the answer when you ARE the answer. It all starts with you. No matter the issue you see, start with you first. MJ got it right when he said "I'm starting with the man in the mirror. I'm asking him to change his ways." No one has taken your sport and you haven't missed your moment. It just hasn't arrived because you haven't dealt with you. Everything you desire, want and need starts with you. Do your part to be the best you possible. And when you get it wrong, apologize, fix it and learn from it. Nobody's perfect. We all are traveling down this road called life with the sole goal of leaving this space and place greater than we found it. But it requires you to answer the call. Literally no one can do you better than you. No one can fit that space that was designed for you.<br />
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Stop giving up on you.<br />
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It's not too late.<br />
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The greatest bet you can make is on yourself.<br />
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Take the risk, believe you are worth the call. Answer it.<br />
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Someone needs to see what grit looks like. That comebacks really exist. That living is possible. That peace is attainable. That perfection doesn't exist. That in every situation there is always something to give. That you are enough. That happiness is real. That it ain't easy, but it's worth it.<br />
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Answer your call.<br />
<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-25216707564609483502019-05-27T20:12:00.002-05:002019-05-27T20:12:42.535-05:00Put Your Mask On First <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have zero ability to change others. Zero. We have no power to change the attitude, character or actions of others. None.<br />
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Yet we can influence the attitude, character and actions of others. How? By simply being our true and authentic self. In a world full of filters and cover-ups, choosing to be who we truly are at this moment is priceless. It's one of the most power gifts we can give to ourselves and those around us. It's how we leave our impact on this planet--choosing to belong just as we are.<br />
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By no means am I stating that choosing ourselves is an easy one. Yet I do know it is the only way to truly change the world. Sorry but there's no next Beyonce', or Cardi B, or whoever may be the hottest "it" artist at the moment. It simply can not exist. Because there is only one. One of you. One of them. Literally only one.<br />
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So since it's only one of you, why not be you. I get it. I have flaws and all--I am constantly unhappy with this belly that has worked its way back in my life. But it's still a part of me. And I literally have the power to make the change I want to see. No one can do the work for me. I have to conquer the battle in my mind and then put them work in to be different. I can't ask 3/4 of me to stand outside and only allow the 1/4 of me to be present. I have to take all of me into every space and place I occupy. I have to be at peace with me. It's impossible to make impact or have influence on others if I refuse to deal with all of me.<br />
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It's easy to point the finger. It takes courage to look in the mirror and recognize one's own reflection. No matter what you think you see or what you even don't want to see; it's you. As they say when you fly, put your mask on first then help those around you.<br />
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You want to help others, help you. You want someone else to do something different, how about you start with YOU. It's easy to see what others need, but have you looked at you lately?<br />
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Change and impact first starts with you. You want to see others be different and do things differently, you take the first step.<br />
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<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-18843534961225280722019-05-19T14:57:00.002-05:002019-05-19T17:29:49.991-05:00Lowered Expectations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I remembered laughing hysterically to MADtv's <i>Lowered Expectations. </i>It was a parody on the concept of video dating right before the buddings of online dating. Essentially if you were willing to lower your expectations, you literally could have none of your desires. I mean maybe 2 or 3, but that might even be pushing it.<br />
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While I thought the skits were funny, in hindsight they were a mirror of our modern lives. When we begin to believe we don't deserve what we desire, we begin to accept any and all substitutions. Most times the substitution appears to be similar to the original. But it's not. Yet many times we accept it anyway. Close enough. Almost. It's okay. </div>
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It's a really tough spot. We know what we want, yet patience givens in to want versus wait and we settle. We end up what getting what we think we want, but it is not what we need in the moment.<br />
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It's a really tough spot. We know we don't wanna be there. We condemn ourselves to the negative consequences of the decision and come to believe we deserve it. But that's far from the truth. You're deserving of more. Much more.<br />
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Yes it's tough. Yes it is. But tough doesn't mean impossible.<br />
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Stand firm in your convictions and truths. Man can't manipulate time, so don't believe what he or she says should occur at a specific time in your life. Maintain your expectations. What you desire will be. It takes you preparing yourself to maintain it. Stay your course. Don't lower your expectations. You got this. You are worth it. </div>
The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-67628257872759675482019-05-05T18:06:00.000-05:002019-05-05T18:06:21.579-05:00Dare to be YOU. I had one of those moments. You know the ones. When you hear the voice whisper the seed of negativity and you take the bait. Yep. I took the bait. For a good 3 to 5 minutes I thought I was everything wrong. That I was a failure. That this closed door confirmed every negative thought I ever uttered about myself. Yep I took the bait.<br />
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For context, I was making my way to the train after a decent first day of my new part-time gig in the Bronx. As first days go, I was bombarded with a lot of necessary information to give context to the position. It's work I know but in a different context. So I am excited about learning more about the nonprofit sector. And then boom. I get the email that I did not make it to the next round of the interview process for the a position I applied for at a local university. Dang. Another NO. A loud NO. Even after completing a weeklong complex performance task. I got feedback from a fellow educator about the task and worked even harder to revise it. I really gave it my best and still a NO.<br />
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Immediately I begin to think that maybe I wasn't good enough. That my best wasn't enough. That some way, some how I did something where I didn't deserve to have this position. It took everything within me and a crowded train to hold back the tears. With those thoughts looming, I took out my earbuds and continued to listen to my podcast which so happened to be Pastor Mike Todd of Transformation Church in Tulsa, OK. It was a series from 2018 he did on God's Grace--Grace Like a Flood. I pressed play and heard---"God looks at you and says, it's good. The only thing that can define a thing is its creator."<br />
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I let that NO define my worth in that split moment. I didn't see the good thing that God had created. I didn't see me. I saw what I thought was the ways that others defined me. The ones that didn't create me. The ones that don't have a way already made for my present and future.<br />
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I have got to choose me. If I don't no one else will. Sure it stings a bit when others don't see you as you, but it's literally okay. I am learning to be appreciative of closed doors too. I let what I didn't have at the moment distract me from what I do have--a job. Sure it's part-time right now but I see how my skill set can benefit the community the job serves and what I can learn from the experience as well. I have to stop looking at what I don't have and allowing that to define me. What I do have is much greater.<br />
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I want to stand in the courage to wake daily to be my authentic self. I literally can only be ME.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-42722457657043480862019-04-22T20:22:00.000-05:002019-04-22T20:26:39.727-05:00Choosing Gratitude<br />
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It's easy to be consumed by what is assumed to be the long road ahead. Our dreams and goals seem long in the distance, almost unattainable. Yet we forget the rugged hills we made it over to get to this very point. Sure you may not have arrived at that desired outcome, yet you are so much closer than you think.<br />
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While it seems like you may be in the midst of your greatest battle with no way through, give thanks. Yep those moments were intentionally designed to break you. To count you out. To eliminate your greatness from breaking through. But you are here. Give thanks.<br />
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When in the battle it's challenging to see the win. But know the fight is fixed. These things are only meant to sharpen your iron. Give thanks while you persevere through the storm. The mere fact that you are even still in the fight means you have so much worth fighting for. Give thanks, don't give in.<br />
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We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair. Persecuted but not forsaken. Cast down, but not destroyed. Give thanks. We are still here.<br />
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Today choose to walk in gratitude knowing that every ounce of your being in this moment is greater than you were yesterday and the day before and the day before. With a grateful heart know your present it creating a future beyond your wildest dreams. Give thanks. Gratitude says I know things are always necessarily good, yet I stand in appreciation and acceptance of the gift.<br />
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Appreciate the moment.<br />
Practice mindfulness.<br />
Be patient.<br />
Practice kindness.<br />
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Know your light affliction is but a moment and is working something far more greater in you and for you. Show gratitude for that greater coming.<br />
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-71057567120203092822019-04-14T17:53:00.001-05:002019-04-14T20:04:10.102-05:00Let's Talk About it . . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So we just gonna pretend that it doesn't exist. That it never happened. That it didn't hurt. That we didn't feel it. That we didn't live it. That it if we keep it buried on the inside somehow it will disappear.<br />
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It won't. <i>It's still there.</i> Even it you buried it. <i>It's still there. </i>It didn't leave. All you did was burry a corrupt seed that has sprouted and blossomed into more hurt and pain by new names--fear, doubt, shame, just to name a few. It becomes this vicious cycle devouring and consuming whatever is life-bearing. <i>It's still there</i>.<br />
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Yes, you are consuming you when you refuse to talk about it. Silence is killing you. Literally. Think about it, when you are in immediate danger, what's the first thing you do? Shout and scream. You want help to hear you and come to your rescue. And some of us have been trained to shout fire so that others will truly be able to distinguish our urgent need for help. <i>It's still there</i>.<br />
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You gotta talk about it. It's a part of you, yet that moment doesn't define the greatness of who you are. You gotta talk about it. <i>It's still there</i>. Traveling with you from place to place--here to there--settling right within you.<br />
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You gotta dig it up. Your very life depends on it. It's impossible to get where you really wanna be by keeping it buried within. It's only a moment of your story that actually has the power to make you greater if you talk about it. <i>It's still there</i>. You don't want to merely survive; you wanna live. You gotta talk about it. Own your story. It's yours. It deserves to be told by you.<br />
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Erase the shame. Shame says you are bad and you believe it. Yet don't confuse the feelings. Yes bad things may have happened to you and you may have even done some bad things. But you are not bad. Talk about it. We all have a story to tell. The key is to tell it to those who deserve to hear it. Be selective. Don't merely throw your pearls before swine to consume. Even if it means getting professional help, TELL it. That's a great safe place to start to talk about it. There's nothing wrong with attending to your emotional and mental health needs. Stop believing that lie. What's in you has got to come out. It has to be dug up from the roots. A job the professionals have been trained to handle. Then replaced with tilled ground and good seeds. You gotta talk about it.<br />
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<i>It's still there</i>.<br />
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Tell it so that you can live.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-11943395972415040442019-04-07T20:37:00.000-05:002019-04-08T10:18:43.276-05:00Daily Practice <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Consistency has been my word for 2019. I told God I wanted to practice consistency in using my gifts and talents. I've spent far too much time taking it all for granted. Leisurely tapping into my gifts and talents at convenience rather than responsibility. This week makes for vid and post #7. By no means am I celebrating yet. There's plenty of work to be done. And I do plan to stay the course because the mere act of consistency has been beyond rewarding.<br />
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So with consistency in mind I want to be intentional about my daily practices. I want to rise with intentional focus and know that even if I make mistakes or totally fall along the way, that I took the risk. I showed up with full effort to give it my all. </div>
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I am intentional about:</div>
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<li><b>Practicing boundaries.</b> Boundaries are not just saying no. It's about accountability. Holding ourselves and others accountable takes daily deliberate practice. It means I stand in my truths, values and morals unafraid of what may be. </li>
<li><b>Practicing consciousness.</b> I am aware of my gift and talents. Of their potential and power. Of how they are a part of my being yet they are not all of what makes me me. Yet I understand when I operate in my gifts and talents I am my most giving self. I am aware of who I am--strengths, flaws and all. And I am accepting of each and every part of me. And by staying connected to my center, God, I am trusting my process despite my challenges. T</li>
<li><b>Practicing choice.</b> I choose to be the best that I can be. I choose to not place my value and worth in the hands of others. I choose my morals and values and convictions. I choose love. I choose me. I choose a circle of friends rooted in being connected to each other---we feel heard, seen and valued by each other. I choose kindness. I choose to show up as my most authentic self. </li>
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By no means am I perfect or striving for perfection that doesn't exist. I don't claim to know the road from here to there. I just want to embrace all of who I am intended to be each and every day. </div>
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-27335233051872269752019-03-31T18:07:00.001-05:002019-04-08T09:15:51.618-05:00Challenges Don't Change the Truth<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">Life for me ain't been no crystal stair.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">It's had tacks in it,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">And splinters,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">And boards torn up,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">And places with no carpet on the floor --</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">Bare.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">But all the time</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">I'se been a-climbin' on,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">And reachin' landin's,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">And turnin' corners,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">And sometimes goin' in the dark</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">Where there ain't been no light.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: white;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-a66620bd-7fff-3a10-40b6-81d6517c1919"></span></span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-align: center; text-indent: -11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">So boy, don’t you turn back</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-align: center; text-indent: -11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">.Don’t you set down on the steps’</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-align: center; text-indent: -11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">Cause you finds it’s kinder hard.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-align: center; text-indent: -11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">Don’t you fall now—For I’se still goin’, honey,</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 11pt; text-align: center; text-indent: -11pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: white;">I’se still climbin’,And life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">--Mother to Son, Langston Hughes</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's no secret. We are encounter challenges all the time. Yet it seems like they come after we thought we "made" it through the storm! I have been officially unemployed for 8 months. And this part of my journey has been no crystal stair. I told God he betta pull through on one of these last three interviews because I totally learned all I needed to learn at this point and I am ready for THE door to open. I have applied to soooo many jobs, been on sooo many interviews--I stopped counting at like 15, and I am just sooo over it all!!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then Monday rolls around and I get an email at 1:30pm with another "unable to offer employment" messages. At first I was like, okay no biggie, this wasn't THE door. My momentary okay turned sour throughout the day and soon I found myself wanting to cast blame--<i><b>what did I do wrong this time.</b></i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To say my this portion of my journey has been tough is only the tip of it. The moving iceberg underneath carries so much the eyes can't see. And please don't take my sharing as a moment of shame. I share because it is my reasonable duty. No point in keeping it secret. We all have challenges on the journey. Folks watching just want to know how we are making it through. And here's what I have to say to myself....my current challenges don't change the <b>Truth.</b> God is still God. His plan for my life is still very present and working for my favor. My worth, value, talent, skill and ability are not valued by the numbers of yes or no I receive. I don't need to necessarily know the details of it all because I am not conforming to a fit or a type or a like. I am determined to live through my challenges as they refine my faith, character, talent, gifts, and goals. These challenges are my preparation for <b>THE</b> door. Yes it was easy to fall trap, but I didn't. Yes I felt my feelings, asked myself why I felt that way, then decided I would continue to exercise my faith--God you still have two more opportunities, I can't wait to see which one you desire me to explore...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So it the mean time and even the lean time, I will hold fast to these words: </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>This journey is personal--it's MINE.</b> Forget what you heard; there's no magic time frame. I am truly a better human today that I have even been in my life. I know more about God, faith and relationship than every before. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Keep faithful; consistency is the major key to success.</b> I recently told my brother that I am not ready to venture into entrepreneurship because I am working on being consistent with my time and talent right now. It I can't be faithful with this small thing I surely can't handle any more. I am learning to carry my cup over the river and through the woods while it is half full so that as increase is added, I already have built the patience and persistence needed for that additional weight and responsibility.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Do a lot with the little bit I may have</b>. Giving isn't all monetary. Whatever I find my hands to do, I should do it. Give of my time, talent, love, mercy, grace--basically all that I have to fit the need. Talent buried births bitterness, anger, frustration, and so much more negativity. In other words when you fail to nurture and live in your Truth and purposes (yes you have MANY purposes in life) you truly ain't living. I am devoted to giving of this talent because I know others need to see they are not alone. I'm a river and I got folks to feed. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>This time is no different.</b> I have been through tough times before and I will come through this one too. Life ain't been no crystal stair, but I won't sit down. These challenges don't change my Truth. </span></li>
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-59572188088594753272019-03-24T16:48:00.003-05:002019-04-15T15:05:05.616-05:00Submission: Whose Mission of Life are You Aligned to?I have become a podcast newbie. I have a specific set of folks I have started following for professional and personal learning. And it never fails that I pick up so many nuggets of good stuff. Recently I was listening to The Love Hour with the comedian KevOnStage and his wife, MrsKevOnStage and she said something that struck my soul....submission simply means to come under or in agreement with a mission. I begin to think how we tend to attach such a negative connotation to such an important life concept. I immediately asked myself, <i><b>whose mission of life am I submitting to and am I totally aligned to that mission? </b></i>Like come on in the room! I was shocked myself--like did I just say that! God was all up in my commute. Am I living the life I desire or have I submitted and ascribed to the convictions of others watching my dreams fizzle away?<br />
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It's time we are honest with ourselves--<i><b>whose life are we living? </b></i><br />
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Yes, your most wildest and magnificent dream is 100% possible. It's your life mission. And while you may not have all the specific parts and pieces, as you submit to making it a reality that which you need will manifest for you. Are you willing to do the work?<br />
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Submit to peace and positivity. Choose to see the situation exactly as it is; an opportunity. A chance that didn't exist before. Sure the packaging may not be as described, yet it's within you to take what's inside and create. Don't give in so easy to whatever is presented your way. It's okay to be slow to speak and quick to think. Hold your tongue! Everything stated or seen doesn't need your attention or response. Take this opportunity to cultivate and plant exactly want you desire to reap.<br />
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Submit to patience and embrace time. Listen we have ZERO control over time. Submitting to what society defines as life milestones will kill your joy and your mission for that matter. Nahh you don't have to reach the outcome when they say you should. I have no clue who they may be, yet I understand how controlling they can be. When we submit to "they" we forfeit our dreams. We willing align to this joyless rat-race of chasing the ever exclusive "American Dream." Fall out of agreement with "they." Believe me, whenever you reach the outcome the reward is still just as sweet!<br />
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Dream again. The unique talents and gifts that you have been endowed will create rivers. Rivers are life sources. <i>Did you hear me?</i> You are a <b><i>LIFE </i></b>source. (Now that is a word! Like honestly I felt that one!) When you submit to what is not for you, you kill the future of what should be. Someone needs the source you have. Someone needs the life in you so s/he can live. Tomorrows are created by todays. Keep going. Keep moving forward. Keep grooming your journey, planting your seeds, gathering your harvest so that you can give as you gain and gain as you give.<br />
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Nobody told you the road would be easy. Literally no one has said to you your journey would be easy because quick and easy ain't living. Sure some parts of your mission may be easier than others only because you did the pre-requisite work. Your efforts and work is not in vain when your mission. No where in your dreams--as wild and giant and magnificent as they are, did you see easy. You saw you in all of the shine you 100% deserve. Go get it. Dream the mission God planted within you at birth. Align to the steps God has already ordered for you. Don't worry about time--God can redeem it. Go get it. Accept your mission. Start your course. Go get it.<br />
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It's time we are honest with ourselves--<b style="font-style: italic;">whose life are we living? What have you submitted to? </b>If it's not the mission you 100% desire, abort.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-22127687901013716492019-03-18T08:37:00.001-05:002019-03-18T08:37:15.383-05:00Stop Trying and Start TrustingSoooo I am telling you to stop trying and I mean it! Stop trying to make things happen as you believe they should be in the timing that you believe it should happen. Stop forcing it to be. Stop trying to figure it out. What is meant to be will be. You don't have to understand it all so stop trying to.<div>
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Trust your process. Life is happening for you, not to you. The outcomes you desire are coming to you through your process. Every idea, every dream is being manifested for you. Trust the process. </div>
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<b><i>No need to compare</i></b>. Each process belongs to the one owner. It's uniquely YOURS. Trust. What is yours is yours.</div>
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<b><i>It's greater than you.</i></b> Your process is guiding you through progress. You're gaining as you go. Your healing. Deeper understanding of self, others and purpose here on Earth. Trust every situation you encounter is being forth your greatness. Your greatness is intended to give to others. Trust. </div>
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<b><i>Keep working.</i></b> Be consistent in your work. Be faithful to your work. Be grateful for your work. Trust. All that work in your process doesn't go unnoticed. Trust. It's working for you.</div>
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<b><i>Change your perception</i></b>. Not lack but wealth. Wealth of opportunities. Trust. You have within you all you need to obtain all that you need to gain at this exact moment. </div>
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Trust your process. It's working out for you. Don't try to force it to be. Trust your process. The outcome is coming for you. </div>
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-79010165771106568742019-03-10T20:39:00.000-05:002019-03-10T20:39:27.295-05:00Failure Before SuccessWe are living in a world that values success greater than the road to get there. We are blinded by the the glory in the end result. Yet the process in the progress is where the true beauty lies. Especially when we fail. That's where the magic happens. Where you find your wind between your face and the ground. The wind that will carry the next seed needed to be planted for your harvest. Hold tight. Success is a failure away.<br />
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I say with confidence; your success is greater because of your failures. Much richer. Much more appreciated. Ask anyone who has reached a major milestone of success how many failures occurred before that success. I am quite positive each person could pen a detailed account of the failures along with the lessons in those losses. And that is the magic. If we are willing to listen to the failure we would gain several valuable lessons. And if do the work to use what we have learned from those lessons, growth and change is inevitable. That's the key. It's the very essence of your journey that will, if applied, continuously push you to success after success after success.<br />
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Nope. It's not pretty or polished. It's ugly and dirty. You cry. Sometimes a lot. It hurts. May even feel like the pain is too much to bear. Yet know you were give ideas for your many successes and this birthing pain is only temporary.<br />
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Don't give up on your possibilities because of the fear of failure. You literally have nothing to loss by following all that your heart desires. Failure is only a part of the process. An essential part. But a small part in comparison to your coming greater gain. A pebble in the road that looks like a mountain from afar. It's meant for you to overcome failure. Not stop before acquiring all that you need. It can't skipped. In that ugly package is a glorious gift. Don't miss the lesson in disguise.<br />
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<b><i>Dream it.</i> </b>Those crazy ideas are yours. Deposited in your spirit during day-dreams or star glazes, long walks, short drives. They are yours. And yes; even your wildest dreams are possible.<br />
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<i><b>Create the plan.</b></i> Write it down. You may not have all the whole vision yet. Write it as you see it. Allow your imagination to flow to that desired outcome. Sure all the pieces of the path may not be present, yet. No worries. They will appear right when the timing is right. And what you need may be wrapped in a failure or two.<br />
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<b><i>Leap.</i></b> If you truly want that desired outcome don't wait for the net to appear; just leap. Watch God orchestrate the universe to provide all that you need.<br />
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<b><i>Invest in ear plugs. </i></b>The people around you will try to cast clouds on your sun. Their negative words are poisonous darts of distraction. Don't listen. Remember you have success that you are after, not the approval of the naysayers.<br />
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<b><i>Follow YOUR yellow brick road.</i></b> It's no straight line. Plenty of curves and bumpy roads. But it's yours. Don't forget that. It's yours. It's making you. Taking you to your desired outcome. Don't get distracted by those curves and bumps. Each one you take will prepare you for the next one. Don't get off the path. Stay your course. No one else's course will take you where you wanna go. What's for you is for you.<br />
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<b><i>Don't stop. </i></b><br />
--be resilient<br />
--be fierce<br />
--be a fighter<br />
--be determined<br />
--be focused<br />
--be unstoppable<br />
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Fail. Then get back up and try it again. And again. And again.<br />
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<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-14572910186540207572019-03-04T10:08:00.000-06:002019-03-04T10:08:31.248-06:00You Deserve All The Good ThingsNote to self. . .<br />
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You are so much greater than you can even begin to imagine. Too often we magnify our imperfects so much that we fail to see the total human we are. How truly magnificent we are. At no point can we leave half of ourselves outside and allow only the other half to enter the room. Wherever you tread, you take all of you with you. Yes all those amazing qualities far outweigh those growing areas. In the midst of it all you deserve ALL the good things.<br />
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These good things aren't reserved only for others; yours belong to you. We all have a special shelf lined with special good things awaiting us as we walk through our life journey. Yes awaiting us. Our good things are manifested as we do the work. Yes we <i><u><b>have</b></u></i> to do the work to have all that we deserve.<br />
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<b style="font-style: italic;">Believe you are deserving of the good things. </b>The faith needed to succeed does need not to be a huge amount. Only the size of a mustard seed. Have you actually seen a mustard seed? If you hold it in the palm of your hand it is sure to get lost in one of the lines of your palm; it's that small. And that's all you need to begin to receive all the good things. It all starts with what you believe.<br />
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<b><i>Enlarging your capacity to receive the good things.</i></b> In our current space we can't hold and maintain the good things. Like any vessel, we must be emptied and cleaned. Releasing who we think we are for who we want to be requires acknowledgment. It's okay that we missed whatever the mark may have been. Recognize the lesson to be learned, embrace it, yet keep moving. Shedding those strings of past things makes space for what you are really supposed to have.<br />
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<b><i>Keep moving forward.</i></b> Time does not operate merely on the rise and setting of the sun. Take no worry in time when you are doing the work. When your desire matches your drive toward your goal, the good things manifest just as they should. Do not be dismayed if the "time" seems to go by without the manifestation. Trust the process. It's coming. Be anxious for no thing. All you deserve will come. You are doing to the work to make it happen.<br />
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<i>Yes, you deserve ALL the good things.</i><br />
<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-21002625104917816062019-02-24T16:51:00.003-06:002019-02-24T16:51:57.799-06:00You are Doing a Freaking Great Job<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am confident God sends those you need with the most fitting words of encourage at exactly the right time. Em told me that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. </div>
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It's no secret that I have been in a a challenging part of my journey these past 7 months. Being unemployed has been a true testament of my very being. To say I have cried and then cried and then cried is not enough to share how all parts of this moment in my journey has impacted me. And to hear those words, I literally stopped in my tracks. </div>
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How can <i>this</i> be right where I am supposed to be? This moment....<i>this moment</i>. Like really? Am I supposed to be in this right now? Why? How? When it this going to end??? I have asked these questions several times to no clear answer. And at this point I don't think I will get a verbal response. And if I am honest, I am not sure if I can handle the response. Yet what I do know, trouble don't last always. Moments are just that...moments. They come in this journey to strengthen, to purge, to recreate, to enlighten, and to heal. This moment is no different. </div>
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And if I am honest, before this moment, I had not been doing a great job of taking care of me. I was not aligned to my center....I had taken God off the throne of my heart and made my journey totally about me in a not so good way. I was hurt...so many self-inflicted wounds. Wallowing in doubt, being let by frivolous material gains and just walking/running/crawling toward whatever open door I could see. Even if that open door was no good for me. </div>
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So yes, I am now exactly right where I am supposed to be. Learning to be great at being me. Learning continuous growth is the key. I am not who I was when 7 months ago, or even 2 weeks ago. I gained some clear insight about myself (thank you Naj!) forgave myself and realized that I am blessed. So blessed. Even in this moment I have had all my needs met. God is truly faithful. And I am grateful. Teary eyed yet grateful. </div>
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While this moment will define this chapter, it's only one chapter. A brief history. Only a small portion of the beautiful being that is becoming me. </div>
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-84699190040393297792018-11-03T14:39:00.002-05:002018-11-03T14:39:17.770-05:00Weary in Well DoingValleys are expected in life. As most famously stated, "life ain't always been no crystal stair..." Forward motion always requires pauses to learn the lessons in preparation to the next part of the journey.<br />
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The goal: To stay the course. The toughest part: To stay the course.<br />
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It's relatively easy to get weary in the mist of well doing. We have all parts of the conversation with self. The encourager--<i>I got this, I got this</i>. The doubter--<i>Geesh! Can I do this</i>? Yet we stay in the fight knowing the coming results are <b><i>worth</i></b> this momentary struggle. But for a moment. Moments don't know time, only acquisitions--did you get what was necessary. Digest the lesson. Apply the lesson. Put it in motion.<br />
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We can't give in. It's weary right when it's about to break. Right when the sun gains its shine to burst throw the clouds. Don't give in. It's coming.<br />
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Trust. It's coming. Right over the horizon.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-63781179232958913562018-10-22T19:45:00.000-05:002018-10-22T19:45:16.618-05:00Watch Yo MouthSooo they lied. Told us...<i>sticks and stone may break my bones but words will never hurt</i>.<br />
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Negative words have a far greater reach and impact than we can even imagine. Think about it. You still remember those ill words thrown at you in middle school. They stung like sharp needles then and still have residue, hence you remember it. Most likely can recall the exact moment they were told to you. Those nasty mean words.<br />
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Many of us have formulated our identify from those words. Held strong to those lies and told ourselves that they really didn't bother us. Yet they did. They clung tight. Anchored in and began to root. Though we experienced some smiles, endearing moments, and positivity, those negative words stuck around. Residue floating to the top giving everything a soar taste. Polluting our wells. Once it's in, it's hard to get out.<br />
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Now they are the first to leap off the tip of our tongue. We sling stones and quick jabs before any words are released from anyone's mouth.<i> Get'em before they get me.</i> We justify. Continuing the hurt caused upon us long ago. Far reached. Far traveled. Gossiping. Negative words. Complaining. Judging. Criticizing. The impact heartfelt and carried. Polluting our wells. Once it's in, it's hard to get out.<br />
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The cycle. Polluting our wells. Once it's in, it's hard to get out.<br />
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Absolutely it does matter what you say. Your words have dunamis power. They bring forth the potential and actual to collide and spark. They beget after their own kind. Yet when we are lacking on the positive, negative comes and eats away at the bit of reserve we have. Anchoring in. Polluting our wells. Once it's in, it's hard to get out.<br />
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It impacts all humanity alike. Mothers, fathers, aunts, daughters, brothers, cousins, young, old. We all have carried its sting. No one person is more susceptible to its spew and impact. We have all done it and been impacted by it. Some words cut deeper than others. Polluting our wells. Once it's in, it's hard to get out.<br />
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We gotta do better. Much better. Be anxious for nothing. React in control. Focus on our locus. Change our vocabulary. Speak life. With intent. To deposit seeds to swell forth light. And life.<br />
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Recognize our own trauma and pain. Be at resolve with self. Words have sooo much power. Be picky about the ones you use.<br />
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<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-72334951787252655542018-10-09T15:06:00.000-05:002018-10-09T15:06:01.048-05:00What You Think You Know About Love...Unknow that Ish...I'm bound to turn heads with this one. Nothing new. I welcome the slow head turn side-eye with a slight eye roll. Yep that look. You don't know nothing about Love. Nah you really don't.<br />
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It ain't what you think it is. Move beyond those faltering flutters. Get to the core of what you learned of Love. Those images that saturated the white board of your brain--misrepresented in movies. Misunderstood by adults. Told you that we stayed because of Love. No matter what the stay endured. Told you it was Love. Well. That ain't Love. What you thought you knew.<br />
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The mere concept of Love permeates beyond words. It's essence is only captured by this mixture of thoughts, actions, emotions and clunky words merged on crowded streets with a sweetness seeping through the rotting meat. It's so strong you question it only to arrive at the determination that it simply can't be what it simply is. Sounds so confusing yet its clarity cuts through the darkest night pouring bright light. Its extraordinary yet humble and meek. It's boundless and immeasurable. Soft yet firm. Tried and Truth.<br />
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We struggle to understand and embody Love because it requires us to embrace our humanness with out regard to its form. Meaning we must leave our natural perceptions of self and others to say my conditions are broken. Because it is my conditions are that inhibiting Love.<br />
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Conditions equal every separating power from the Truth creating blatant lies to further the impact of negative words. We all have them. We all created them. We all further them. We say we are ready for Love yet our conditions have us purposely breaking the mirror so our reflection can only be seen in distorted slivers. Conveniently the parts that reflect our invalid conditions.We tell ourselves we have arrived to the understanding and capacity of Love only to be the bottle cap when we are truly required to be the bucket. Pure kindness and generosity fortifies the fibers of that bucket. Giving it form to hold yet leverage to overflow, share, create, repeat.<br />
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Love yet exists. It starts within. You connecting to self. Being perfect in imperfection. Happy in incompleteness. Full when empty. Satisfied when you can't see. The full picture. Or even the stair. The next step. Kneeling to the Creator God to learn more about you the created in order to further your destiny's greatest gift. Love.<br />
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Love never fails. It never ends or fades.<br />
Love endures with patience and serenity.<br />
Love is kind and thoughtful.<br />
It is not jealous or envious.<br />
Love does not brag and it is not proud or arrogant.<br />
It is not rude or self-seeking.<br />
It is not provoked nor overly sensitive and easily angered.<br />
It does not take into account a wrong endured.<br />
It does not rejoice at injustice, but rejoices with the Truth.<br />
Love bears all things regardless of what comes.<br />
Believes the best in all things.<br />
Remains steadfast during difficult times.<br />
Endures without weakening.<br />
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I have yet arrived at the fullness of Love. And I don't think I ever will. Yet I welcome it. With every mountaintop and valley experience I welcome it. To know it. Feel it. Create it. Marvel in its sight. Linger in its prism of beauty. To say with full conviction I love you without limits.<br />
<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-81373476099944256032018-10-03T15:41:00.003-05:002018-10-18T10:20:27.164-05:00SpeakYesterday I spoke. Yesterday it flowed brazen with confidence. Poignant and free. Determined to be heard. Didn't matter who listened. It wanted my attention.<br />
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That's the power of it. Truth. Sure it wants to connect to the receiver, like any message does. Yet it merely wants to be spoken. To be heard by you first. Are you listening?<br />
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Truth is not predicated on the feelings or actions of others. It will stand regardless. It's really more so about <i>you</i>. You are the receiver. The message is for you. Only heard if you speak.<br />
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The hesitation to speak stems from fear. Wanting to hold hostage your pruning. Your healing. Your growth. Your change. Fear knows the power of Truth. Understands how forced silence traps ambition and keeps potential dormant. Locked in space. Unable to move. Unable to be planted. Unable to grow. Root. Sprout seeds. Seeds needed to be carried away by the wind to land in rich ground. Truth has that power when it's spoken. It must be spoken. Speak it to believe it and then believe that which you speak. Your Truth. It is intended to be free. Live open. And the great thing about your Truth, it makes life worth living for.<br />
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It's imperative not to confuse your Truth with current rubbish filtrating the airwaves. You're not a garbage can. Stop collecting the trash. It buries Truth. Makes it had to breath. Though Truth never dies, it can be challenging to revive from under the lies. When disconnected from you, your center is misaligned. Stagnant. Rotting in place. Free your Truth. Free you.<br />
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Your Truth continuous heals you. Makes room for vulnerability which is necessary for growth.<br />
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I spoke my Truth again today. Today it stood open, naked and unashamed. I repeated it a couple of times. Rolled the words on my tongue. The heavy lift felt light as it gained strength from my parted lips. Warmed my heart. Pricked my spirit. My Truth really set me free.<br />
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Don't be afraid to speak.<br />
The only person who needs to listen is <i>YOU</i>.<br />
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<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-71805189824792180412018-09-27T11:49:00.002-05:002018-09-28T10:25:47.601-05:00Wait....I Ain't Ready<div>
<i>Dedicated to K--it's okay not to be ready.....keep doing the work to be...</i></div>
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Yesterday I realized, I wasn't ready. Me, not ready?? Seems such an idiotic statement. I am <i>always </i>ready. At least that is what I tell myself. You know the concept. If I say it long enough I will drown out the fear and hesitation in being ready. But truth is, I ain't ready.<br />
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Every professional was once a novice.</div>
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Working on this new project brought me to this awareness. He said, "You ain't ready." I piped back, "Yes I am!! I have most of it all written done." Key word--<i>most</i>. </div>
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<i>I ain't ready. </i></div>
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I am here at this place in space. This moment in the journey and I am not ready. </div>
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My readiness is not from lack. More like mere process. Process is preparation. </div>
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Yesterday I realized that I am <i>okay</i> with not being ready. Be anxious for nothing. For nothing. </div>
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For marriage. For nothing.</div>
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For children. For nothing.</div>
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For promotion. For nothing.</div>
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Be anxious for nothing. Our journey is not in competition. Time is a manmade construction used as manipulation to control what's beyond his limits. All things happen as they should in the given moments they should. </div>
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It's tough. The getting ready part. No easy button. No elevator. A lot of stairs. Sometimes up, up, down, down, down, up, up, up, up. Building endurance and strength. But it's worth it. The ready. </div>
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Read.</div>
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Serve.</div>
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Study.</div>
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Smile more.</div>
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Stay vulnerable. </div>
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Unlearn to learn and grow.</div>
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Resist the pressure to settle. </div>
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Listen to understand not to respond.</div>
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Speak your truth with passion and peace. </div>
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Be found ready. </div>
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-55398594326041483362018-09-24T12:30:00.004-05:002018-09-24T12:30:55.754-05:00Following a DreamToday I decided that I wanted to try a new venture. In fact I have a couple of new ventures I want to try. First at bat is my voice. No people, bring it back. I don't wanna sing. I am 38 yrs old. That dream died when I blasted NKOTB from my pink radio on Virginia Street. On the porch that day, I couldn't quite hit the notes. Yeah I knew I was a wrap. I digress. Which I tend to do a lot...back to my voice.<br />
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I love my words. The way they appear on white space. Dominating in bold formation. Letters to words to feelings cut by Truth. Creative words. Swirling through pathways rushing in time to arrive at understanding. I really love my words.<br />
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And my voice too. I want folks to hear my voice. Hear it utter the words I string together in creation. The tone. The mood surrounded. Its pitch. Pure sound of delight to me. When my voice carries the full weight of my words I shudder in belief. My voice connects those words to the energy and power of Truth and it is then that I hear the ending. It is done. All I have spoken has come to be. Selah.<br />
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I want to speak life to you. My human touching your heart. Where the issues of life reside. Let you hear my voice laced with words that kindly deposit vitamin Truth of Love. Real love. Human love. Unbound. Without cause or reason. Just because Love. Knitting smiles back together again. Pushing you to take up your bed and walk. Be healed. Then go spread your healing to other humans with your voice.<br />
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The details are being pieced together. I am following the way being paved. Just wait. In a minute you gone hear my voice.<br />
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In the lean time, between time, have you abandoned your dream? You know the one I'm talking about. Because dreams never travel alone, you may have only stepped into one part and left the others by the way side. Go get them. They are waiting for you. The great thing about life and dreams, they travel with you. They are still <i>there</i>. You don't have to travel back in time where you laid it down. Just dig. Dig in the inside of you. Uncover. Remove. Dust off. It's <i>there</i>. None of use were created for single use. We're multifaceted greatness. Sure we have aged some yet our dreams are always timely to blossom. It's <i>there</i>. Lay aside those lame broken excuses. It's <i>there</i>. Listen. It's <i>there.</i><br />
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<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-18482637064075169612018-09-20T14:13:00.000-05:002018-09-20T14:13:03.601-05:00Exposing ShameI had a vision last night. Of my impending success. I knew it was me. I knew it was real. It was powerful and refreshing and imposing and impactful and powerful. Yep. Powerful. Me powerful. I stood in the Wonder Woman pose with my hands on my hips in a red skirt and a brown shirt and a black and brown stripped blazer. I stood in authority. I said to myself, that's my vision. Then I saw myself standing in a black suit with a yellow belt (I like to be funky professional!!) in the same powerful stance.<br />
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I needed that vision.<br />
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I am currently not working. The K-5 school I was working in last school year decided not to pursue the renewing of its charter and officially closed its doors the last week of June. Here's the thing. Last school year had to be the 2nd best year of my 16 years of being an educator. I worked with 2 phenomenal leaders--Bosslady and E who expanded my knowledge, added to my toolbox and genuinely made be a better leader and human. Walked into the school year with hope and left with greater faith. In my purpose and my process and my journey.<br />
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My heart knows this part of my journey is the necessary building for what is to come. For that vision to manifest. Yet it doesn't stop my emotions from feeling shameful. Several no's start to weigh on my shoulders. Dangle at my feet. Whisper to my insecurities. As I watch the people make their way to their designated spaces with coffee in hand and I take my green tea back home. My feelings are my humanness. Yet I don't live in them. I feel them in the moment they arrive and then fight them in faith. And text convos with Trout. IG laughs. Alexa blasting modern gospel station. Sometimes silent prayers then teary prayers. Book reading. Writing. Sunday 9AM service and lunch dates with Naj. Just to name a few.<br />
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And I fight. Like my life depended on it. Because it does. I fight.<br />
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I share all this to say, life is complex. Many times we are brought to specific places in our journey by our own actions yet with divine purpose. In those spaces and places we must come face to face with who we are, what we have done, and ultimately be reminded of our Creator's intention of our intricately designed destiny. A destiny that does not come without challenge to best prepare us to sustain the power and greatness of who we truly are.<br />
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Your Book of Life is not, and will never be, my Book of Life. Though our chapters might merge or lines might double over. Yet they are uniquely original. Plenty of chapters written. And plenty more to be written. Some longer than others. All chronicling the perfect imperfection we are. <br />
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When we are awake to our dreams, alive in our potential, present in our gratitude, creating forward options, and living in our beloved humanness we literally have no place for self shame. Or guilt. Or negativity that drives any fathomable insecurity that tries to overpower the love and lessons we are walking into each and every day.<br />
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Our "but for a moment" is working something far more greater within us and for us. Let's stay the course. We already have within what is necessary to win the already won battle.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-37109259274417950092017-04-09T18:29:00.000-05:002017-04-09T18:29:07.756-05:00What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid.....Trust. Trust that this moment will work out for my good. Trust the plan God has delicately and intricately laid before you....potholes, speed bumps, sharp curves and all. Trust that what is within me is sufficient for the journey before me.<br />
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I am at this space in my journey trying not to make the time extended. Yet I'm afraid. Of what. I have yet to be failed. Yet to be left without. Even in this moment my needs are being continuously met. Yet I'm afraid. I'm afraid I will fail in my journey. Not that He will fail me, but that I will fail Him. That I am not meeting this moment with the right fight. That my lack of trust in the moment will delay that which He intended for me to have. I gotta let go of this fear....<br />
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In my gut I know this moment what already known. Already seen. Which means I have been <i>prepared</i> for it. All of my journey has brought me to this moment because I am prepared for this moment. My spirit is fighting my fear and I must continue to feed my spirit those things that which will give it strength, courage, and wisdom to trust what has already been given to me. Trust....I can trust my God is this moment because He provided a way...in every space of the journey.....trust...<br />
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<br />The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-77869731113545470242017-01-12T21:06:00.000-06:002017-01-13T14:01:18.902-06:00Mirror Mirror......Look Who's Pouting About Potential....Yep. I admit I pout. Not often. But I do. Just today I gave in to frustration and yelled out in a challenging conversation with my Prin-Ci-Pal (No worries--I still my job!) "That's a double standard. I am being asked to do twice the amount of work than everyone else. This is not fair." I was met with the reply, "Let's unpack that statement." I went on to tell how if someone else was given this specific task that I currently have, they would NOT be asked to do the detailed amount of work that I am being asked to produce. What's that about?<br />
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I bet someone is reading this thinking the same thing I was, yep. Not cool. But listen to this. "Not everyone is being prepared for your seat." Yeah. That hit me right in the face. Of course my bossy self replied, "I didn't ask you to groom me for that seat." Which was met by, "It's my job to pull it out of you what I see."<br />
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I then walked right out the door.<br />
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Ugh.<br />
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In my office I was HEATED. When my "ear" came through I couldn't wait to vent to him. Like the great listener he is, he let me get it all out and then gave me wait time before he came back to help me process it all. On that return trip he said, "Mac you experience a lot of pressure. But know this, you are going higher. And the higher you go the more you are going to experience in preparing you for where you need to be. It is all necessary. Pressure makes diamonds or it can break. Are you gone be that diamond? You have to decide."<br />
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Ugh.<br />
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My "ear" is always dropping jewels on me. Giving me what I need even when I ain't trying to receive it. His timing is always impeccable. I truly appreciate his presence in my life.<br />
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I sat there. I got it. Of course I knew my Prin-Ci-Pal was right--that's why I walked out! And my "ear" just added to what I needed to hear. It's impossible for me to speak about potential and not be challenged on my own. I know where I am now is NOT my destination....just a mere stop on the journey. As I transcend on my path, the challenges are greater, yet I have everything within me already to meet success. I gotta go through the process. It is in the process...shaped...sharpen...molded....and it hurts....ain't always pretty...but it's necessary...<br />
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Yes that mirror was smack in my face today and I had to see myself. Look right at my potential. Fix my face, adjust my crown.<br />
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You know I completed the task, right....and got handed a new project.....<br />
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Here I go.....no pouting this time.....The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-14995843026422508022017-01-08T14:28:00.001-06:002017-01-08T14:33:28.932-06:00Dying Empty by Forgetting What Has BeenPotential--the unreleased ability. That which is possible. Capable of being but not yet. Dormant ability. Not what is, what could be.<br />
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It's a known fact; the richest place on Earth is the cemetery. Many have died with their treasure locked within. Potential unfulfilled.<br />
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Tugs at the heart strings. Digs right to the core of one's soul. It gets personal for every being on this planet. Each one of has a place and a part that is undeniably created just for us. Though spaces are akin, they are not alike. Each one is carved out specifically for you. And great news. There is only one you. And no one can do you better than <i><b>you</b></i>.<br />
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So why are we so full? Why haven't we emptied our cups? Why are we still sitting on our potential? the answers are lengthy yet centered solely around our own memory. Gather this--we can't move forward because we keep remembering the past.<br />
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"I can forgive, but I won't forget." Well did you really forgive? And why can't you forget? If the memory of the act is still present then it is holding valuable capacity for newness. We can tackle the forgiveness at a later date, but zone in on the memory. We <i>do</i> need to forget. What was, was. It needs no further space for existence. It had its moment. Even Paul states, "I do not consider I have attained it all yet, but one thing I do know. <i><b>Forgetting</b></i> what lies behind me and reaching forward what lies before me. I press on toward the goal...." (Eph. 3:13-14 paraphrased). And this forgetting is critical to reaching forward.<br />
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Past errors should be forgotten. They exist no more. Past wins should be forgotten. They exist no more. All of the past has just become fuel for reaching forward. If you are present in this day, your mere breathe is enough that you need to know of existence to move forward. It is only when you relinquish the past can you recognize that you actually have potential yet to be fulfilled.<br />
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Too many of us are burying our talent in the sand yielding nothing. Nada. Zilch. We are wasting in our own space because we refuse to forget. Holding tight to the memories of yesteryear has us full and fat. Telling stories of what you use to be able to do and how well you did it. Lavishing in how well you came out after that challenge 7 yrs back. Just fat and full. Potential over ripe and screaming to be released, but we keep pushing it back down. Back down to the bottom so we can keep telling our stories to ourselves as means of accomplishments and arrival.<br />
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Forget about it! Yep you did great things and guess what, you have way more great things to do.<br />
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Let it be stated that when you reached your Earthly end, your talents multiplied greatly throughout the world. That your Creator is pleased because all He created you to be, you fulfilled. No potential wasted.<br />
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Nothing great simply stopped at its first win or last failure.<br />
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**Thank you Pastor Dr. L. Powell for the great word that inspired this post. I heard. Reflected. Shared.**The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-74095641995177501822017-01-05T10:00:00.000-06:002017-01-05T10:00:17.658-06:00Everybody Needs a Bono<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: #999999;">"Some people build fences to keep people out and other people build fences to keep people in. Rose wants to hold on to you all. She loves you." -Bono, from August Wilson's Fences</span></b></span></div>
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<b id="docs-internal-guid-66248ce2-6f5a-4461-a93c-8fc899d01d2a"><span style="color: #999999;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: #999999;">Had the viewing pleasure of seeing Denzel Washington's rendition of the famed August Wilson's Fences. I was amazed at how much depth that was able to be captured on film. Most times the live theatrical version can not be matched, yet this one brought so much raw emotion. I saw life's reflection in every character like I was reading the original playbill.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: #999999;">With so many big rocks to takeaway (OMG I am such an educator.....teacher terms...big rocks...takeaways...smh) I find Henderson's Bono the epitome of my heart's song. One can not progress without a Bono. Forget what you heard, no (wo)man is an island. Your journey can never blossom to possibilities without a Bono. Bono is your beyond your bestie. Bono understands s/he may need to walk away for a month of Sundays so as to not taint your healing season. Bono understands you may need to lose to win. Bono is your reflection of fantasy and reality.</span></b></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<b><span style="color: #999999;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I quote Marcus Brutus often..."The eye cannot see itself but by means of reflection" (unfortunate for him he chose the wrong mirror--Cassius..). We are given the privilege of companionship on this journey and must value its responsibility. Even in our silent reflective moments we don't see it all. And our Bono provides us the inside details to push us to our success because s/he desires to see us reach our success just as much so as we do. For in our success is his/her success. Bono said it all, "</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I done known you seem like damn near my whole life. I been following you... I done learned a whole heap of things about life watching you. I done learned how to tell where the shit lies. How to tell it from the alfalfa. You done learned me a lot of things. You showed me how to not make the same mistakes…to take life as it comes along and keep putting one foot in front of the other." </span></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 18.6667px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: #999999;">Bono pushes you to see the truth when you chasing lies. See the you, you so intentionally may be trying to hid. </span></b></span></div>
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The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8382106043180507750.post-52636855061645520392017-01-02T12:37:00.001-06:002017-01-02T12:37:22.759-06:00Defining Time Our clocks started ticking the moment we were born. It's like a giant hourglass flipped and the sand is running out. Borrowed time. Yet the concept of bounded time is a man-made catastrophe. Folks have created this bounded expectation on when in time things should occur. And unfortuantely we have fallen for it. It guides our choices and makes our decisions for us. Gotta have a degree by 22. A marriage with children by 30. And the list goes on and on of these bounded expectations that usually result in negative pressure. So much that if when we fail to reach these societal bounded norms, we believe we have failed. That something is wrong with us and the time we are given. Oh death to the lies!<br />
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You aren't bounded by the concept of time. Stop failing for how others have defined your time. No one can determine how <i>your</i> time should be used. It belongs to you and how it is used is solely your responsibility.<br />
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Yes it is a Truth that time stands still for no man. And there's no time like the present. These both simply mean you must use your time in intentional forward motion to reach your preordained victories. These victories are timeless, yet are dependent on your actions in order for them to manifested into your realities. Those great celebrations on your journey will come to you in the moment it is meant to be when you are in the space and capacity to maintain its beautiful fulfillment.<br />
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Those extra steps in your journey are meant to add character and value to your experience. The error in (wo)man is to compare one's journey to other's climb. It ain't worth the extra rocks on your road Love. Choose to define your own time.The Written Rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09748407371838698360noreply@blogger.com4