Thoughtful words during a time of recovery; spiritual and physical can bring one to a great realization, that there is hope beyond the problems and turmoil of life. So thinking this morning about the packet of inspirational short stories awaiting publishing has caused this writer to return to that first love. The greatest gift given to man is that of communication. Words are life or death. It doesn’t matter that the words are enveloped in a pretty package. What is important is that the words are read. It’s amazing to watch the transforming power of uplifting words change lives. Every now and then a capable, great orator comes along bringing with him the ability to move the masses toward good.  

Social media as playful as it can be is one such tool that steps up the inherent ability of man to communicate good thoughts to one another.  On one such page the post of an old friend lauded the benefits of leaving the past to move on to a new future. On another page there was a picture of a friend who used an inspirational song to bring back to life a suicidal classmate. He is now following his passion for gospel music.  

This week there are a few things that have to get done; stop eating so many sweets and watching too much television. Finish the editing and packaging of this next book is a promise made to a novelist friend. In a world where so much hurt and hatred keep us from the love of God, a kind word, a gentle gaze helps the hurting soul. As a tribute to Black History Month – “Fabulous, A Life Worth Living” is the assignment that this writer will complete.  

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This is Too Funny

I'm not sure where this orginated, but it was too funny to pass up. Sent to me via email by a friend.

Church Ladies With Typewriters

Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered..
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The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility.
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Pot-luck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow.
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The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
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This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
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The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the Congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday.
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Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM . Please use the back door.
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The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM .. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
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Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church. Please use large double door at the side entrance.
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And this one just about sums them all up

The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new campaign slogan last Sunday:

'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours.'

Happy New Year

A Few of My Favorite Things

Some of my favorite people are authors. These three authors have discovered the key to children's literature is to entertain and provoke thought. These village raising authors have designed for your child's pleasure a plethora of thought and excitement. Moss, Hayes and Flowers; the three authors/artists featured here are making positive statements in the world of children's literature.

Tiffany C. Moss



 

His Kingdom Girlz "Let's Go To Church" is the first publication in His Kingdom Girlz children's book series. In this book you will meet three young girls from different walks of life. Tasha, Madi & Anaya begin a journey of friendship and adventure. Not to mention meeting a pretty special friend along the way.

 

Vicki Hayes



Award winning artist and children’s book author Vicki Hayes has captured the essence of children’s literature.  A Boy and His Biscuit, Fearless Fred, Like This and numerous teaching booklets fill her collection of children’s literature. Ms. Hayes is curator for Miss Weary’s Manners for the Modern Child; an etiquette curriculum started by her sister the late Fay Weary Ragsdell. She is also the creator of a signature project Off the Pages, interactive field trips that filter arts across the curriculum. Ms. Hayes earned a BA in Humanities, Loyola University and Masters in Education from Saint Xavier University. She is a National Board Certified Teacher.

Vicki Hayes

 

 

Tiffany A. Flowers
 

Golden Butterfly Publishing

is an independent small press started in 2008. Our motto is “Enhancing children’s unique creativity”. The company motto is based on the idea that children’s creativity is something to be praised, explored, and encouraged. Too often, we have children with the potential to be great artists, and those children are never encouraged to take a chance and develop their talent. The goal of this company is to enhance children's unique creativity through publishing children's books, producing educational materials, consulting, readings, and performances with children.

Ms. Flowers latest title; Where is the Rooftop Club? is the third installment in the Rooftop Club series. The first installment is about bullying, the second installment is about retaliation? This installment is about dealing with the harsh decisions that adults can make as a way to deter bullying. This book series is written for children in grades 1-3. This installment will be released in January 2013.

Hello Happiness

As I was out “life styling” today I was able to share a little holiday cheer with a few people I met, and those with whom I do business. At Atlantic Station I looked for a linen store that I was told could be found at that shopping location. A street parking space was open as I careened into this normally busy area. What a blessing I thought when I looked at the meter and it still had a few minutes.

The streets were wet from a morning rain and a few people milled about. Carols hung in the air as did the sweet smell of grilled steak. The aroma of a winter that couldn’t make up its mind about staying teased those who were out shopping. The elements were just right for snow, something we seldom get in this town.

With its theaters, shops and restaurants I felt I had just discovered this nouveau place and wondered why I never bothered to travel to Atlantic Station on a regular basis. This shopping center was so reminiscent of my home town, and made for a happy person like me. The promise I made to myself was that now that I had a navigation system in my car I would travel to seemingly out of the way places like this more frequently. Because I am again on my way to a delicious recovery of my health, I need not fear the unknown. Joyeux Noël!

Use Your Words for Healing

Today at the doctor's office I ran into an acquaintance. At first glance I didn't recognize her because her hair was different. After grabbing a cup of hot water for my coffee and preparing to sit, I noticed her standing to get my attention. "Oh, hello." I greeted her with a smile and a big hug. She was one of the people at chemotherapy that had engaged me in conversation a few months ago. She was so friendly that day that I had to offer her some of my gourmet coffee. Thus began a budding friendship.

This day she was filled with tales of ailments, and woe and family. I patiently listened wondering if she had ever practiced praying or making affirmations. Or if she had ever finished the box of coffee she got from me. It seemed that she was content to tell me all of the things that caused her to be in such poor health, even asking me to touch the knot on the back of her head. Really, that was special because I'm very particular about what I touch.

Soon she was called back by the phlebotomist and I to the exam room. I didn't get a chance to ask her to start reciting affirmations for good health and to pray throughout the day.  But I do know how to pray and besides, I've got her number.

Charmed I'm Sure

Good morning world. A restful sleep and an interesting dream has me thinking about jewels; one on my ear and others nearby. What's the meaning of this one huge, clustered, diamond earring in my left ear. Hmmmm! As I awake I think of the jewel as a trinket that might be placed on a charm bracelet and that reminds me of the bracelet my mom bought me when I graduated from 8th grade. Wow! Such a long time ago. But lately I've been longing to purchase a silver bracelet to hang all of my latest accomplishments. That bracelet from 8th grade was such a treat and I'm reminded of it as though it was given to me yesterday. The astonishment of receiving such a nice gift from my mom still brings joy. On that bracelet hung my life. Roller skating, reading, writing, sewing, knitting and the things I couldn't find a replica for, boys. Yeah I was a little boy crazy.

How was my mom able to afford such a gift having so many children? She was a stay-at-home mom and my dad was an auto mechanic. The bracelet was a lasting gift and one I cherished so much. It spoke volumes of her love for me. Perhaps because she is now in her waning years I want to have something close by that will always remind me of her love.