Tuesday, November 27, 2007

This Time of Year

This time of year is not the easiest for many people. There are many that are alone, depressed, angry. I can go on. But would it really do any good, too? No; not at all.

I've been extremely busy lately, trying to get my life in order, and accomplish some of my dreams and goals. There have been some major setbacks; but none that are too difficult for God to handle. I've been reaching for my goals, and I'm finally starting to see some progress. At the same time, there are other aspects of my life that are not easy to look at; but are necessary. It is part of what makes me, me.

Last week, I had the fortunate opportunity of volunteering for a wonderful community organization that was giving away Thanksgiving baskets. It warmed my heart and saddened it all at the same time. It warmed my heart to see the outpouring of support from the community; but it saddened me to see how many persons--with children especially--were in such need. It started me thinking about what those families do all the other days of the year, and what can I do to make a difference?

Although many of the families were grateful; I could still see some sadness in many of their faces. I could see the joy of receiving the basket; but at the same time, the wonder of what they were going to do for next week. I saw anger on some faces. I saw despair. I saw depression. I even saw greed. Yes--even greed. To the point that there were some people who actually tried to pull a scam. Which was totally unfair to a family who may have gone without, if there were not enough baskets to go around.

My heart sincerely ached for these families. I wish you could have seen the children...how precious and innocent. Then I wondered: how many of them will repeat this vicious cycle? How many of them [children], will be where their parents are when they grow up? It struck a chord in my soul. One that I cannot get away from.

What can we do to stop the cycle of poverty? What can one person do to make a difference in at least one child's life? There is much that we can do. And, all it takes is committing one's self to making a difference one family, one child, one person at a time. To begin to give back to those around you--to the community that you live in. Perhaps by volunteering your time, expertise, talent, finance, home...whatever you can give, that will teach families how to make it. To teach children and parents, how to live and not just survive. We can't help everyone--not alone. But collectively, we can make a huge difference.

To many, this season has always been about receiving. How about we make it about giving, and teaching? It's time for people to stop complaining, stop whining, stop passing the responsibility, and take accountability for the community they live in. Become a mentor. Become a big brother/big sister. Become a foster family. Become involved. Don't just be a spectator. Commit to make a change; one person, one child, one family, a community at a time.

Other Personal Essays email me

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Has It Really Been That Long?

Wow! I really have neglected this blog, haven't I? I've been so busy writing, praying, and a whole lot of other things that I have seriously neglected this blog.

Well, I have been thinking about making some changes. My life is going in another direction than when I first began this blog. Nevertheless, I do not wish to abandoned this idea. Why? Because truly, there are many people hurting and needing a word of encouragement. So, once I figure out what to do (after much prayer), I will revamp this blog, and give links to some of my favorite sites, and perhaps share a bit more information.

Well, so much has happened in the world, hasn't it? School has began. Autumn is upon us. There's unrest in Louisiana (JENA 6), that is causing race discussions across the nation. The president of Iran spoke at a University in NY, as well as the UN. Let me just say this, I listened to his speech at the UN, and I must say, that if you don't know God, please get to know him. I say that because, as Ahmadinejad was speaking, I clearly was seeing the book of Revelations.

Now, don't get me wrong, I do not support him; however much of what he was saying was true concerning the state of things, and how the lives of people are here in America and the Middle east. If you don't know by now; God will use your enemy to speak the truth. And, if you are listening, you will begin to see the sign of the times. All I saw was the very acts of Revelations beginning to be played out for real! I heard God saying, this is the beginning of His return, and we must be ready.

All the unrest that is going on amongst our own Nation, is in direct correlation with the unrest that is found in all Nations. The unrest between America and other nations is alarmingly similar to the unrest between the races in America. First, things seem to advance well and all is okay on the home front. Then, the evil truth is revealed. God allows the truth to be made known to the world, that things are not equal all over the place. That, we still need to fight for civil rights and equality. That we still need to uphold the statues of, God. That, we still remain responsible to teach the next generation about what it means to stand on sound principles and doctrine.

There are so many places that I can take this conversation, because truly this is where I am hurting today. I am hurting in my heart for a nation that claims to promote equality and fairness. A nation that claims to protect the individuals rights, but has so far dropped the ball, and the World as a whole, is watching and judging.

It bothers me to see that, I am living in a nation where much hasn't changed as far as race relations. It bothers me to see, that I live in a nation, where the president of Iran can come and speak in a US university, and a man of color still cannot get a fair trial because of the color of his skin. Yes, judgement is upon us, and it hurts me to know that many that believe they are okay, sadly are not. It hurts me to see, that as a believer in Jesus Christ, that the body of Christ on a whole, are fighting one another, talking against one another, and tearing one another apart. We are not praying for one another, and we are not teaching what God wants us to teach. And, while all this is going on, the world (unbelievers) is watching us, shaking their heads, and running from God even faster, because of our poor behavior, and the inability to remain disciplined and steadfast in the ways of God. This truly hurts me. What kind of ambassadors for Christ have we become? God is not pleased.

Well, I have rambled on more than I wanted to, but I can do that, it's my blog! Anyway, take from this what you will. You don't have to agree with anything I have stated here. That's your right. These are my opinions. But please allow me the right, and afford me the respect to voice them [opinions], as long as I am not encroaching upon you, by bringing harm or physical danger to your person.

Be blessed today, and receive what God has for you; especially the TRUTH.

Rue

Wednesday, April 04, 2007

Enough Already!

All of this whining and bickering, and picking on—enough already! Jeez!

I was reading on the newest feud between View host, Rosie O'Donnell, and Mr.Bill O'Reilly! Come on...you can't say you did not see this one coming?

For whatever Ms. O'Donnell's issues are; she is indeed entitled to her view points. But, I must ask the question: Does she need to be so belligerent? Really? Don't get me wrong; I actually like Ms. O'Donnell—at times—however, lately she has just rubbed me the wrong way, coming off as a bully!

I actually understand where she is coming from; but I also understand Mr. O'Reilly's point of view as well. When you have the capacity to reach so many people and make an impact—we must be careful of what we say, and how we say it. We may say something jokingly, and it be taken seriously, or out of context. We do have a responsibility.

We indeed have a responsibility to the nation in which we are living; which affords us the liberty to be so profoundly vocal. However, with these liberties come responsibilities. Responsibility in what we are saying and why.

Power is a dangerous drug. Once we realize that we have it; for some it causes them to be more empathetic; for others it unleashes a mind-set that is devastatingly dangerous.

What happens when we began to speak against our nation? As a whole, it tears us apart. Separating us; giving room for the enemy to get in—and divide and conquer. Whether we realize it or not; we are being watched. Our actions; what we are saying; what we are suggesting; what we are complaining about.

My point of view comes from a foundation that is rooted in the belief of God. That I serve a Creator, that has placed in me the freedom to choose what, and who I want to follow. He's such an awesome God, that He gave me the freedom to choose if I want to serve Him or the Devil. You may not agree; but that's your prerogative, or your freedom to choose to believe that. I'm not mad at you. But, I know what I know for myself, because of an intimate relationship with my Father (God).

Because of my relationship, I have come to realize that it is against His will that I blatantly disrespect the Leader of this nation; whether I believe, agree, or even like him. That's not the point. The point is: he won the office. He was voted in, and I can't change that fact. But, what I can do is show respect to the office—even if I disagree. I can disagree with his choices; how he runs this country; how he even looks! Yet, I will not disrespect him, by calling him out his name and making fun of him. But I also know, I have the freedom to make a change—through my voting, and my voice. Not to stir up anger, or insight a riot; but to ignite positive change through my voice; perhaps my writing, and encourage others in my sphere of influence to do the same. Especially during this election season.

You see, what many of us may not realize is that, the world is watching us. They are watching how we treat our leaders. They are watching to see how we treat one another. They are watching to see how the Leaders that be treat its constituents. (Hurricane Katrina was an eye-opener to the world about America). This is a major problem for many other nations: how America shows disregard for those in authority, and those in lack. When these nations see this; they are appalled, and become highly agitated when we come into their country and try to change things. Or try to Americanize their youth—their future. They don't want our values. They don't want our morals. They don't want our influence—our money...yes. Influence...no.

My point is this: If we cannot even show solidarity in our own Nation; how can we expect to change somewhere else? How can we expect to stop a war—that has gone on for far too long—if we cannot even stop fighting amongst ourselves? Really. Is it it more important to be right, or be united, and put an end to this atrocity? Enough Already!

Affectionately,

My Point Of View!

Sunday, April 01, 2007

April Fool...Ha!

Are you a fan of Jokes? In my family, April Fool's Day is a no-holds-bar day! No one is safe—not even Grandmas!

My Uncles were crazy jokers! They got my Grandmother each and every time. I remember this one time they got my Grandmother so good; that she whipped their behind, but good. (I guess the joke was on them, huh?)

My Grandmother always advised her children that sex was for marriage. That, engaging in a sexual relationship is for mature folks. And, she definitely did not want no young girls coming to her house saying they were pregnant.

They (Uncles) came up with a crazy joke: tell my Grandmother that one of them got a girl pregnant. They were fifteen and seventeen at the time. Well, they proceeded to tell my grandmother this lie—she was none to thrilled. She screamed; she hollared; she tried to choke him. She asked him if he was crazy.

Not only did he say that the girl was pregnant; but that she had the baby already, and was downstairs waiting to come in, because her parents kicked her out. Now, I won't repeat what my Grandmother said—*$#*&#*—and the like! My younger uncle went down stairs to get the girl.

My Grandmother tried to compose herself—afterall, this was her grandchild, right? The girl came in holding the "baby" in her arms, wrapped in a white receiving blanket. My grandmother asked her to come show her the baby. She asked what it was. The girl said it was a girl. My Grandmother said, let me see who she favors.

By this time, my Uncles were starting to lose it. They were trying to stifle their laughter. When the girl placed the "baby" in my Grandmother's arms, she stood back. My Grandmother lifted the blanket up, and said: "What the—"!

My Uncles and that girl started howling with laughter. One of my Uncles fell to the floor, holding his sides. My grandmother was cussing, and called them every name she could think of. Inside the blanket was a baby chimp!

I was just a little girl when this happened; but I knew it was funny! My grandmother chased my Uncles around the house with a belt. I laughed so hard, I nearly peed my pants!

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

The Devil Is A Liar!

I was watching Primetime, last evening. They covered this story about a man who claimed to be the second comiing Christ. He calls himself, Jesus.

This isn't a surprise or shock to me. For we are told in the Holy Scriptures, that many will come, claiming to be the Messiah, and many would be led astray.

The thing that did shock me, was his message: That it was okay to drink, smoke, etc.... In fact, he went so far as to say that he was the "Anti-Christ". He was going against every form of religion; Especially the Catholic church. And, was teaching young children, that it (faith) is not a matter of the heart, but a state of mind. That God cares about your mind. And, that sin and hell is just what the "church" uses to bring fear to man.

Everything he stood for, was about the flesh. Gratifying the flesh. And, getting as much as you can right now. It was sad. It broke my heart especially to see those children's minds being warped, and aspiring to get their tatoo's of "666". The Devil is a liar!

I watched with my mother, and she stated that it was very eery, how he reminded her of Jim Jones. Very charasmatic, and really people oriented. It was the beginning of the end.

I want to know, how far this man will go? Because, he is definitely setting his sites on America, and as much cash as he can get. Make no mistake: This is not about God, or about our getting to heaven. This is a war between Heaven and hell. God and the Devil. Between eternal life and eternal damnation. And the Devil has chose his soldiers.

It is time for God's soldiers to stand up, and get on the front-lines. It's time to get out of the Church buildings, and comfyy pews, and get your war clothes on: Having the mindset of, "Take No Prisoners".

The Devil Is A Liar!

Thursday, February 15, 2007

All Snowed In...

How was your Love Day? For those of us in the North East, we were hit with some pretty wicked weather! It was long over due.

Here, in Pennsylvania, we were a little spoiled by the lack of winter, and not too mention the seventy degree weather we experienced in December! Talk about crazy! But alas, we got hit. I just hope this is was the first and last of it.

You want to know where I hurt? My back...from trying to dig out from under all this snow. :)
One minute there was nothing, and the next, my back-yard looks like a winter wonder land. Down the street from me, there were countless teenagers with snowboards, merrily sliding down this fourty foot street; Which now resembles a mountain slope at some ski resort!

The weather report said 20 inches, but my back says, three feet! The more I dig, the more snow there seems to be. But, I can bet you one thing: I won't be digging tomorrow. Can someone say, "Snow Blower"!

Good Luck Digging Out!

Rue

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Happy Love Day!

Another Valentine's day is upon us. How is your day going so far? Mine's? Forget about it! It's not that thrilling. However, I can say, the two feet of snow outside my door is a hoot!

I knew it was coming! This is the first real snow we've had this winter. Hopefully it will be the last. At least it's not nine feet of snow! Could you imagine? Yikes!

Anywho! I hope you're taking the opportunity to say I love you to someone today. Even though we should be doing this everyday. But, I encourage you, to think about someone you may know, that hasn't been having such a wonderful time of it lately. Think of someone who you might know, who might not have heard those special words in a while...and tell them, I love you. Every one needs to hear that. Do you know of any children that need a special hug? How about some elderly person? They're out there. So, let's do something a little different today. Instead of expecting a gift...YOU become the gift. Give someone the gift of you.

Perhaps you are saying, you need to hear those words yourself. Well, here you go: I LOVE YOU! Just the way you are! Now look in the mirror, and repeat: I Love You! Now, was that so hard? If it was, keep repeating it until it becomes easier. And, it will. Trust me.

Happy Love Day! God Loves You Best!

Rue

Friday, February 09, 2007

So Much Pain...

It is really heart breaking to see so many people in so much pain and grief. Suffering within their souls; crying out for help, and not receiving it.

I was sadden by the death of Anna Nicole Smith. No, I did not know her personally. However, I know many like her.

In my opinion--and I really don't care what anyone says--not even her own mother: It was a broken heart that killed her. It was plain to see, for anyone with a heart and a sense of compassion, to see that Ms. Smith was clearly grieving. I do not care what she sounded like, or what she appeared to look like, or the way she may have slurred her words. That was a woman--a mother--in some serious pain.

People over look the effects that losing a love one can have on someone. Some people are able to grieve and move on. For some, it never goes away. The loss, the pain, the grief. Leaving in your heart, a hole that is not easily filled. Ask any parent that has lost a child- another child does not, and cannot replace the life of the one lost.

My heart went out to her, as well as my prayers each time I saw her. Because, I recognized the deep, searing pain that she was in. Her heart was broken, and I believe it just gave up the fight.

The constant barrage of questioning, and the endless jabs of accusations were appearantly too overwhelming. As someone watching from afar, I empathized with her hurting soul.

For those who truly knew her best, and loved her best; they know the treasure that they have lost. And, I offer to them my deepest and sincerest condolences in their time of great mourning.

Perhaps you know someone that is grieving. Or, someone that is in great pain. Take a moment to put aside judgement, and offer a pair of open arms, and ears to listen; while keeping in mind, that words do have the power to heal, as they do kill.

Thursday, February 08, 2007

Filled With Pride

I take pride in my heritage. Although it is vast, I take pride in who I am, and where I come from.

It is Black history month. And, we shouldn't wait to celebrate our heritage just once a year. Every day should be a celebration. A celebration of life. By living life to the fullest, and being thankful for the opportunities that our fore-fathers and mothers afforded us, through their blood, sweat, tears, and very life; Each day should be a celebration in our souls, our spirits, that we get another day to achieve greatness.

What is your greatness? Greatness, to me, is not necessarily defined by what we do, but by how we do what we do, and what for. A person may never be recognized for the things they do in life. Some may never say thank you. But, I want to say thank you.

Oftentimes, we over-look those that spend their lives, cleaning up after us, taking care of us in so many ways, that we do not see their "greatness".

One's greatness lies within their ability to do what they do, with joy and self satisfaction. It is to do what you do to the glory of God, and not to man.

I couldn't be the woman I am today, if it wasn't for the greatness of my fore-fathers and mothers. Those that were Kings and Queens, that became slaves. Those slaves that were beaten, ripped from their families, humiliated and denegrated, but still somehow, found the courage to push through. To those who worked meanial jobs, scrimped and saved, and provided for their families. For those that taught us how to pray, to have faith, and believe that God is a promise keeper of His Word.

To those, that fought the fight for equality. On the front lines, and behind the scenes. To those that lost their life fighting the good fight, and never giving up on treasured dreams. To those who passed the torched, and ignited the fuse to keep living for God, and to never give up. Knowing that one day, your reality was once your ancestor's dream. To all of them I say thank you, for their greatness, and shaping who I am.

Be Blessed, and embrace your Greatness.

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Yesterday...

How did you spend yesterday? Did you do anything to commemorate Dr. King's Birthday?
Last evening, I watched some very moving and educating documentaries on PBS. (Check out PBS.org)

The documentaries were so moving. It contained things that I learned before and already knew about; nonetheless, it was very thought provoking and stirred in me, the need to be more vocal in my community; in my life in general.

What can we learn from yesterday? What can we learn from those who have gone before us? Who have prepared the way, so that we can partake in the liberties that we have right now?
We cannot afford to rest upon our laurels; or to rest upon what our forefathers have done. Because if we do, then we are being selfish, and cheating our children--the next generation--out of the knowledge and opportunity to grow and be effective.

We have to embrace yesterday. Take its lessons and teach the next generation what fighting for equality, AND the quality of life, is really all about.

Yesterday...It defines today, and perpetuates your tomorrow.

Monday, January 15, 2007

See Within Yourself...

Within us lies so much. Things we probably don't realize exist. There are some of us that experience great joy. Awesome happiness. And, unforgettable love. There is also within us, much hurt, pain, sadness, regrets, etc.

Often times, we walk around trying to evade what is going on within ourselves. Because it might just be too painful to deal with. But the more we try to run from it, the more we hurt. It is time for us to look within ourselves, and deal with our issues.

There is no more time to run and hide...life is too short. We must begin to look within, and take stock of what is going on, so we may deal with it. We will never be free from what hurts us, if we do not face it, confront it, deal with it, then destroy it. The more we bury it, the bigger it gets.

God does not want us filled with so much pain and hurt. He does not want us to be constantly suffering and hiding. He wants us to be free. To enjoy the life He has destined for us. In order to do this, we must begin to see withiin ourselves, and take inventory of what's really going on.

Take a look inside...don't you think you're worth it?

Sunday, January 14, 2007

Give It Up...

Whatever it is today, that you just cannot handle...give it up! Whatever has been holding you down and giving you pain...Give it up! Life is too short to continue to have so many regrets and problems.

What would happen? Really. What would happen, if just for one day you gave up the battle of trying to figure out how to fix that problem or solve that solution?

I encourage you...Give it up! At least for today. Take a breather. Go do something that will bring you some joy and pleasure. It might suprise you, what will happen if you did.

Go ahead...that's right...Give it Up!

Saturday, January 13, 2007

You Just Don't Know...You Are Beautiful!

The other day, I went shopping for a few things. As I was waiting for the bus, I began singing worship songs. I really didn't care who heard me...It wasn't for them anyway. So, there I am, standing in this small alcove with about seven people or so, and I notice this young woman walking towards us.

What made me notice her, was the fact that she was speaking out loud to herself, and cursing like a dirty sailor. I continued singing, but I couldn't remove my eyes from her...there was something about her. She was dressed as though she came from an interview. The closer she got, the louder she got. She was walking fast, shaking her head. When she got in front of me, I heard her say something so painful and disheartening: "I hate this s***! I can't stand it no more! I'm just so f****** ugly! I'm too ugly to live!"

My mouth flew open in disbelief. I turned around to see if everyone else heard what I heard. Everyone else was just standing there, not suprised. As if this happened everyday. I stepped forward out of the alcove to see where she was. She was walking so fast, I couldn't catch her, so I immediately started praying.

My heart went out to her. I don't know what her life is like, or what her experiences have been, but she was beautiful to me. It pained my heart to hear that. Because I hear it quite a bit. I have worked with many young people, adults, and even the elderly. And, it suprises me still, to see how many people do not love themselves. Let alone, like themselves. I'm not just talking about females, either. But males, as well.

We are living in such a vain world, that capitalizes on a person's looks. And, we are so driven to look like the people that seem to be getting the most attention. We aspire to look like the "beautiful" people, not seeing or believing our own beauty. We fight to be, and secretly wish to be one of the popular ones. Believing this would give us a chance in life.

Well, the truth is, we all have a chance in life. Whether we believe it or not. We all have in us the opportunity to either live life, or let life pass us by; always standing on the sidelines, waiting for some momentous thing to occur.

Who defines beauty for you? What defines beauty for you? Beauty begins within. And, no matter how popular you are, how many changes you make to the outside, you will never be satisfied, if inside you are not happy with yourself, and can appreciate who God created you to be.

I bet there are many popular, "beautiful" people who are miserable inside. But no one really knows that, because they are too focused on that person's outside appearance. I was fairly popular in school. I had a lot of friends; I could make friends easily. But, I was miserable on the inside. Because I was always comparing myself to some one else. I had a weight problem, and I felt I was ugly. I hated myself. But, many of my friends didn't know that. Even when I got to college. Do you know, I would coach other people on how to be out-going and self-loving, while I couldn't do that for myself? Well, of course you didn't know that! But, what I'm saying is, many people you see that seem so happy and have everything together, just may be miserable on the inside.

We are a peculiar species. Never realizing that the true secret to beauty, and happiness, lies within our selves. We have the ability, and capacity to live the kind of life that is fulfilling and exciting. If we would just recognize, that within every person, there is greatness, beauty, love, life. We don't have to hold ourselves to false standards, and false impressions. All we have to do, is begin to love the skin we are in. And, everything else will fall into place.

Maybe no one has ever told you, so I will: You just don't know, YOU are beautiful!

Be Blessed, Beautiful.

Tuesday, January 09, 2007

Don't Give Up...Get What's Yours!

Wow, it 's really 2007! Happy New Year!

Well, I've been away for a while. Packing, moving, unpacking, shopping for furnishings, and all that other good stuff. I am grateful to the Lord for another year. And, I am anticipating great things...And so should you.

When I started this blog, it was with the intentions of really wanting to know where people were hurting. Not to purvey into people's personal lives...But to be an ear and a source of encouragement.

We all have made our new years resolutions. I hope for many, that one was to be more compassionate and loving to those in need.

This new year brought some bad news for me...A friend committed suicide. She was filled with so much hurt and pain and despair. No one knows a person's breaking point. No one may really understand why a person takes their own life. Even when they leave a note. My friend did not.

There is nothing that I can do for her now, physically. But, I can be there for those she left behind, and honor her memory through helping someone else, who may be on the brink of despair. Her death has caused me to see, even more so, just how fragile life is; and how we should never take for granted the life that God has given us.

We may not like the way life is treating us, but I encourage us to seek for more by being more. Learn to love, learn to laugh, learn to not sweat the small things. And, if by chance you can't see your way out, seek out help and never stop praying, because God is listening. Don't give up on your dreams. Never give up on yourself. Be encouraged that you were blessed with another day to triumph over what happened yesterday.

You are loved. You are wanted. You are needed. And, it will get better. Be blessed this year, and get what's yours!

Be Blessed