The Closing of 2012

As 2012 comes to a close, I’m thankful to still be in the land of the living and I know that I am truly blessed. This is not to say that I didn’t have any challenges in 2012 because I surely did, but I refer to call them “teachable moments” that God used to get my attention so that I would make some necessary and required changes in my life. After all, I learned a long time ago and as Iyana Vanzant so eloquently said, there is “Value in the Valley.” And, boy is this definitely true! I look forward to 2013 and all that life has to offer. Overall, my main goal is to grow spiritually and to stay focused on all of the goals that God has ordained for me. In addition, “drama” will definitely not be entertained it does nothing but suck the life out of me and plus I’m just entirely too old to deal with constant foolishness and craziness! I’m just talking about what’s good for me and have no business telling folks what is good for them. Because if some folks enjoy drama, like my homeboy Darren Grimes says, “If they like it, then I love it.” In other words, that’s their business and they have a right to enjoy drama just as I have the right to embrace and enjoy peace. Yes, I know that life is full of ups and downs and that I am not perfect by far and have never claimed to be, but God gives us free will and I choose to close the door to insanity!!! I hope that everyone has a very Happy, Happy New Year!!

Thankful

I'm just sitting here chillin' and in a "thankful" mode. It's easy to focus on the things that are going wrong, but it's surely healthier to think about all of the things that I have to be thankful for and that's what I've been doing. I've got a roof over my head, food to eat, heat -- and we sure know that it's cold in the Chicago area -- water, peace of mind, parents, daughter, grandchildren, other family members, friends, job and the list goes on.

E-book

I'm excited to share that my book Grip the Rope: Prayers for Single Mothers is now available for purchase in E-book format -- check it out! http://trccommunications.com/carlawordpress/press-room/

Music

Music is truly cathartic. About thirty minutes ago, I found myself humming that ol’ gospel song that is an all-time favorite of mine, “Peace Be Still” by Rev. James Cleveland. This song was written in 1962 before I was born so I know that I’m taking it way back. Then “Through It All” another ol’ gospel song and a favorite by Andrae Crouch crossed my mind and a few minutes later “Never Would Have Made It” by Marvin Sapp.” All three songs have powerful messages! I hope that everyone has a blessed and wonderful day!!

Reflecting Again and Praying

While I’m still feeling the pain of the recent event, I’ve been simultaneously doing some reflecting and of course a lot of praying. One thing that I’m always reminded of during a tragedy is that life is surely too short to be spending time with toxic (takers, manipulators, users, etc.) folks and that more time should definitely be spent with those that you love where it’s reciprocal.

Just reflecting

I'm sitting here at my computer just reflecting about the events of the last 24 hours and when I think about what has happened in Newtown, Connecticut, my heart aches and pains for the families of the victims and the perpetrator and the entire Newtown community. The mass gun shootings are happening entirely too much around the world or should I say shootings all together happen too much. And, the shootings in Chicago are still out of control and it doesn't seem as if this is going to change anytime soon. It's sad and since I'm numb, it's best that I do what I do best and that is continue praying...