Real LYFE

REVOLUTIONARY THINKING

2010-02-05T13:02:00.000-05:00

A revolution is defined as a DRASTIC fundamental change in way of thinking or UPROOTING a methodology that has transposed and influenced a systematic dichotomy of how you operate. A revolution, in my own opinion, is needed in everyone's life because habits tend to sink in and before you know it, you are doing the same thing, everyday with no change. In my life, it is incumbant that in order to survive I have to change the game plan and re-strategize my offensive strike. A revolution begins in the mind because one grows weary of the way things are and, from time to time, realizes that they can do better or even deserve better than they are getting. They get to a point where they say to themselves, "I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE AND I'M NOT WAITING!"

A NOW revolution is called for in order to bust through the paradigms in the mindset because we are prisonsers in our own mind and tend to settle for the safe and typical because of the fear that resides and looms within to do greater. We wonder if anyone will still be with us or if anyone will have your back if you step up and begin to make it known that I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE! Many think that revolutionary thinking is rebellious and that may, in fact, be true. But all rebellion is not bad because the history of the United States of America was that of rebellion. The founding fathers rebelled against the England Monarchy. And not just that, however this country had an inner rebellion amongst the "negroes" as we were referred to in the 1950's and 60's. So to say that rebellion is of the devil is completely one-sided because you're denying the wrong that a government can play and the role that they can use to manipulate and keep a group or entity from BECOMING what the true essence of who they are is to BE!

Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays wrote a book entitled, BORN TO REBEL, and in this he talks and discusses his life and the various hoops and hurdles that he overcame in order to be considered one of the greatest minds and philosophers of this age. Where would this country be if it weren't for revolutionary thinking? To take things a little further, where would we be, as a people, if it weren't for revolutionary thinking? I would even dare to go even deeper and say, "where would you and I be if it weren't for people who gave their lives so that we could LIVE? The ultimate revolutionary thinker of all is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ because he refused to allow people to box him into a way of thinking. He refused to operate according to the customs and traditions of his time in order to open up a greater realm of existence for those who would follow.

The true revolutionists are those who walk no matter who walks away from them and continue to walk regardless of the assassination attempts on their life. The true and real revolutionist takes no thought for the repurcussions of their actions because they are more bothered by INACTION than reaction. So this is my tribute to the REVOLUTIONISTS who have gone before me who have laid a firm foundation upon which I stand today. Thank you because you walked, I can now run faster than the man in front!

ACTIONS speak louder than your words

2010-01-16T13:50:00.000-05:00

Too often we use excuse after excuse on why we do what we do but I've come to find out that we do what we do because we want to. WE make a decision that we like things the way they are and have no desire to change. Time after time we hear people talk about how their life is a mess and how "jacked" up things are, but until the fundamental decision is made within your conscience there will be no manifestation of change on the outside. Meaning, people won't be able to tell that you want something different because your actions SPEAK LOUDER than your words add up.

Words stack up just like shit does and they begin to have an odor that very few people want to be around. So if you are wondering why your crowd is too busy for you, check your actions and see if they equate to the verbiage that you have been spewing out of your mouth. I don't know about you but I'm sick and tired of hearing the same ole' same ole' from people about their New Years Resolutions. The thing is, they don't do what is necessary to make change take place. They say one thing but then continue with business as usual. And the definition of a fool is one who does the same thing but then expects different results! Stop talking about it and be about it PLEASE!

REAL Change must take place within the mind FIRST, then and only then, can it be resolute within your spirit and manifest to the physical realm. Without the inside-out transformation all you are doing is talking a good game but if your talk doesn't measure out into actions then it's just hot air. People all across the world are talking about the people of Haiti and how sad their predicament is...but if you do nothing about the dire situation, again, it's just a bunch of hot air. The challenge is for your actions to match the words that you articulate from your mouth and follow through with substantial actions that validate your word choices about how horrible their situation is. Haiti's situation could be your own and when you look at your spiritual condition, the possibility that your spiritual condition and their physical condition are the same. Right?

Just something to think about as we bare witness to a world disaster that could be personal if you are willing to take an introspective look into the recesses of your heart. It's time for fundamental transformation because you never know when your world is going to be rocked with an earthquake of insurmountable proportions and leave you devastated and lacking looking for others to help you at your lowest point of shame, turmoil, or devastation. Let's stand up and make change manifest NOW!

DO YOU in 2010

2010-01-07T14:48:00.000-05:00

It's the beginning of 2010 and I wouldn't be true to ME if I didn't tell you to make sure you DO YOU this year. Let me explain this statement before my "religiously legalistic traditional" fan club decides to chime in with proclamations that I have lost my ever loving mind. Remember, I love to provoke people from time to time in order to challenge them to look at their motives or intentions. But anyway, let me continue. Doing YOU in 2010 requires you, first and foremost, understanding what you were sent to this earth to accomplish. When you understand your assignment, you then can easily begin to accomplish your goal with ease. Even when there are disappointments, allegations, accusations, or anything else hailed against you, you have to know that you know that you know what you are purposed to manifest and DO IT!

Secondly, after understanding what you were created to do, you have to take a look at your crowd and ask yourself are these the players that will help you achieve your "championship status?" Not everybody with you can help you, believe it or not, and if you don't realize that it will hinder your progress in reaching your goals for 2010. Don't be afraid to change your "FAV 5" as it pertains to your crowd, cell phone, etc. because your crowd can make or break you! At the end of every athletic season you hear that the NBA, NFL, and the other sports go into trades. Why? Because their goal is to win the championship in their respective sport. They are doing what they're doing for recreation and because they don't have anything else better to do. They are doing what they're doing because they have a goal! Likewise, it is imperative for you to NOT make a new years resolution but a conscious decision as to what you will and won't accept from this day forward.

Thirdly, use the drama of 2009 and the haterade you have experienced to push you into walking into TODAY! Don't let people define you, ONLY YOU have the authority to do that! When you allow others to define you you give them the power to frame you and imprison you. Uhhhh, I DON'T THINK SO! I'm done with living out other people's curses on my life, it's time to live out my dreams and achieve bigger and better in 2010. If you don't do you then somebody else will and THAT MAY NOT FEEL SO GOOD. Feel me? I have gone through literal hell for the past couple years and for those who know me it was just that PURE HELL! The operative word that I love to espouse is "THROUGH" because with all I endured, I NEVER ONCE ENTERTAINED THE IDEA OR NOTION OF STOPPING! I kept on going because I had something I was predestined to do and nobody was going to stop me. It was a decision that I made in my mind and that created the atmosphere for my perception to see what others couldn't see!

I challenge you to LET YESTERDAY FIERCELY EMPOWER you to break free from the chains that have been placed on you by others or institutions and DO what it is YOU have been called to do. Meditate on it day and night, analyze your surroundings and environment and make the necessary changes needed to put the WORD into ACTION! That's what I mean when I say DO YOU! Remember, if you don't, somebody else will and you will become a slave to their anal retentive thinking and end up repeating your 2009, 2008, or maybe even your 2007 in 2010. Let all of that go and pursue some new territory that was off limits! Don't be afraid to rebel against the systematic thinking or your indocrination from a child, hell LIVE AND LET GO of the preconceived notions of what is and isn't acceptable. Take a risk and go out on a limb and, if push comes to shove, JUMP!

This is the year to have NO REGRETS! DO YOU and encounter new altitudes because when you take that first step, in the words of the Reverend Jesse Jackson, "your attitude will determine your altitude!"You will be able to soar to new heights that will blow your very mind! So DO YOU!

THIS IS IT!

2010-01-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

THIS IS IT!!! The moment that separates the grown-ups from the kids, the time that gives one the opportunity to either stand up and remain lazy and sorrowful about what was instead of using the moment to MANIFEST your own DESTINY! This is it! 2010 is here and 2009 is a thing of the past! Now I encourage you to LEARN TO USE YESTERDAY AS A FIERCE EMPOWERING TOOL IN LAUNCHING YOU FURTHER THAN YOU HAVE EVER DREAMED OR IMAGINED! Don't be negative about what happened! FACE IT, it happened...just like sh** but you can't do anything about it so LET IT GO!

THIS IS IT! The moment where you have to make a decision to either allow past mistakes and/or humiliating circumstances hold you hostage and keep you from BECOMING what you have been ordained to walk in! If you don't make a move this year please no sad stories and most definitely don't blame anyone but YOU, the one in the mirror! Stop giving people the power to hold you back because, in all actuality, they ain't all that! Hear me? They are trifling, shiftless, sad excuses and for far too long you have allowed THEM, you fill in the blank, to keep you enamored in the pre-conceived stigmas that were already embedded in their minds. To hell with that yall, it's time to MAKE A MOVE and MAKE IT HAPPEN!

THIS IS IT! At this point you have nowhere to go but UP so, in the words of a famous quote that I hold near and dear to me, ONWARD AND UPWARD TOWARD THE LIGHT! Go ahead and march forward and you will see that they never had the power to hold you back and keep you from walking into what is rightfully yours! Get the hell up and stop pussyfooting around in the cheap seats and get on the court and TAKE the BALL from the opposing team! You've been lied on, left for dead, and verbally abused beyond recognition but guess what? YOU ARE STILL HERE because you still have something on the inside that God created you for.

THIS IS IT! Now those who know my story know full well that I'm not coaching without going through the "boot camp" of lies, accusations, innuendos, scrutiny from the public, and overblown unwarranted media attention. Yes I went through it all but I AM STILL HERE! I'm not bitter but I got a hell of a lot BETTER! I have a smile on my face and joy in my heart because with all that people tried to do, I realize that it wasn't them but it was the evil that exists in the world that is always trying to steal, kill, and destroy us! I should have lost my mind and been committed into an insane asylum, but nahhh I couldn't give my haters the benefit! I've got too much going for me and SO DO YOU!

THIS IS IT! This is the year to move out into unchartered territory and speak TRUTH to POWER! If you're going to have credibility and speaking to the PARADIGM that shifts you have to have a testimony because no one wants to listen to somebody with book knowledge but NO personal experience, so don't be afraid of your past but use it as a weapon of mass destruction. If my wonderful haters only knew that I would write a book entitled, THE CONFESSIONS OF A PRIEST, they would have left me alone. If they had a clue that God would keep my mind, they would have backed off but they were employed by the enemy who is an INDEPENDENT contractor for God to MAKE ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER for good ONLY to them that love the Lord. Uhhh that would be me!

THIS IS IT! 2010 IS THE YEAR TO GET IT IN!!! Move out and do something crazy that is going to piss your haters off and show them that you're not the person they thought you were...go ahead and finish school, write until your heart is content, start that business, pursue your dreams because I guarantee you as sure as my name is Richard...the impossible is waiting for you to show up to NOW!

THIS IS IT! Go for it!

The Garden of Gethsemane

2009-10-24T15:52:00.003-04:00

This is where I am today. I have been studying what actually happened while Jesus was in the Garden and it amazes me how hard he toiled. The garden represents more than a place where you grow fruits, vegetables, or plants but the garden represents and symbolizes a place of death. The garden is actually where you go to lay your life down. If you approach the garden properly you will not leave the same way you came. If you read carefully Jesus left on two different occasions to find that there were those that he asked to "watch" with him had fallen asleep.

What this says to me is there are some experiences that you have to walk alone. This is the hard part because you can be in a crowd of people and yet still be all by yourself. At the same time you can have a smile on your face but yet be full of trepidation within your soul. You can have the look of peace and tranquility on the outside while you are in agony and pain because you know what the "real deal" is on the inside. And that's why I believe most definitely that you can be a public success and a private failure. If this were not possible, then how else would you explain the suicide rate for those who make over six figures a year? To have all the money in the world, like Michael Jackson, and yet be miserable is something that the average mind cannot ascertain but it happens.

So, it brings me to the conclusion of the matter. Your garden may not be my garden but each one of us has a "Gethsemane" encounter that will either make us or break us. Jesus went into the garden and because he refused to accept his cross he was able to leave with no change, still the heavy burden. I believe that Jesus was looking for affirmation from his close partners or possibly to see if Peter, who had received revelation as to him being the CHRIST, had been given any further direction than what Jesus was hearing God say. Remember, Jesus knew no sin so it's not a sin to be in trepidation or agony, but the sin is to choose an easier, quicker route to destiny that is not provisionally acceptable by God.

It was not until Jesus uttered the words, NEVERTHELESS, that he fully accepted and came into direct agreement with the Father as to the cross that he had to carry to redeem mankind. The same goes for you and me, until we come to the realization and understand that we have a cross to carry we will never be able to reign with him. Yes, it was agonizing to be betrayed and forsaken and brutally beaten to the point to where he was unrecognizable. But had he escaped the death and burial, there would not have been a resurrection. The same goes for us, we MUST accept the death walk as necessary for us in order to KNOW Christ and to reign with Him forever!

I AM ALIVE & WELL

2009-10-20T12:53:00.002-04:00

For the past two weeks I have been on a fast because for quite some time now I have known that the Spirit has been requesting for me to transcend and go higher into a new realm of existence. I fought this for months because I knew that dying to my flesh and abstaining from fleshly desires (food) would be costly as well as make me vulnerable but things in my life got to such a point that I had no other choice. I had to go UP because that is where destiny is.

What do I mean some of you may ask? The circumstances surrounding me have continued to grow all the while I have prayed and prayed asking God to remove them but they wouldn't go. I thought I was going crazy or doing something wrong. Well, I was because I was ignoring the command to turn aside from my fleshly desires for 40 plus days. By not doing so, the evil surrounding me was given the "green" light to advance full speed. My anxiety came back and I couldn't sleep because of my disobedience. Not obeying God fully is disobedience to be clear. So, with that said, I said YES to God and have journeyed on a 40 day hiatus with God.

Today I can announce that I have BE-come the journey, I am no longer on a journey. There is a difference, it is this; going on a journey is likened unto you sitting on a bus and looking at the scenery from the side view. You are sitting in a seat and are going wherever the driver takes you. When you are the journey YOU are in charge and you look at the scenery from the view of the drivers seat and not the passenger. The perception is different when you are in the drivers seat than when you are in the passengers seat and the distinction is this, IN THE DRIVERS SEAT YOU ARE IN CHARGE.

I had to quit being passive and take charge of my life because things were getting worse instead of better and enough was enough. I apologize for not realizing the importance of waking up earlier. I apologize because there are alot of people who look to me as a role model and mentor/father figure and promise that from now on I won't be silent. September 21, 2007 was a day that literally scared the "hell" out of me. But I am back! No longer will I allow the council of evil to usurp their power and influence over me because I am greater than them.

The reason why the enemy desired to assassinate my character and integrity is because I am raising up a generation of warriors who are going to give "hell" to their dominion by taking authority over the powers of darkness. Time is up! I am awake and understand who I am and what I have been called into the Kingdom to do at this time in the earth. I am not being rude when I say, if you don't understand what I am talking about, then this is not for you. I am called to awaken a remnant of people out of their sleep and slumber and stir up their gifts so they can be employers and put the enemy to work. Yea, that's right I said it.

As the saints of old would say, "A charge to keep I have and a God to glorify who sent His son my soul to save...to serve this present age!"

It's Time to Forget Yesterday and Move Forward

2009-04-23T13:25:00.006-04:00

I have come to a place of understanding that IF IT IS TO BE, IT IS UP TO ME! In the poem Invictus, it ends with the following phrase, "I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." And with that said, I have come to realize that it is time to advance forward and stop feeling sorry for myself. Yes, I was dealt a hard blow when I was indicted on 6 counts of stuff I didn't do. Yes, it was a blow to face the possibility of spending up to 27 years in prison had I been convicted on all counts. Yes, it was a blow to lose my job that I had had for a number of years of which I had never been written up for. Yes, it was a blow to be running succesfully for office and on my way to possibly winning and then have to drop out the race because of the indictments. Yes, it seemed highly unfair to have my life spin out of control and go up in what looked like flames! But life is what it is!

So I have come to the realization that you have to learn to take each day as it comes and not let anyone lay claim to your life. Your life is what YOU make of it. I have learned not to ever give anyone more power than they deserve. In the past two years I have been up and down. In the past two years I have made some decisions that probably were to my detriment. I was told by the Toledo Police Department and the Lucas County Prosecutor's office that I was cocky, arrogant and unapologetic! I was even told by the Judge, through my attorney, that I wanted it my way and I was attempting to butt heads with her. Now that could not have been any further from the truth but I have a need to be heard! I have a need to speak out with an injustice has occurred! I find it difficult to remain silent when there is an apparent violation of not just civil rights but human rights, so forgive me if I have come across as arrogant and cocky but the things that happened to me were horrible because I never hurt anyone. I won't now apologize for something I didn't do, but what I will do is apologize to the many people who have supported me because it has taken me sometime to fully realize why God allowed the situations to take place as He did.

That being said, the past is the past and today, April 23rd, 2009, I am still standing in my right mind and serve as the Senior Minister of "THE ROCK" Church in Toledo, Ohio. I love the members who support me and submit to my leadership. I couldn't do what I do without them showing up on Sundays to "root" for me and encourage me. "THE ROCK" Church is not the traditional church. It's anything but traditional, it's a non-traditional church that accepts people for who they are right now! We are not judgmental and we accept as is. I can't say that any more clear than right now! I like the Apostle Paul when he said, "I am forgetting what is behind and I am reaching for the things that are before me."

Let's forget about the haters and thank God that we are still alive and in our right mind! Let's move forward and get busy!

This is NOT a Game!

2009-03-23T22:30:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted anything to this blog for a plethora of reasons. For those of you who have kept up with all that I've been through, many of you will testify with me that I've been through many trials and tribulations. But with all that I've been through I am still yet determined to finish my course. There are many people who have betrayed my trust and have attempted to kill me and sabotage my character and integrity but I am pleased to announce that they were not successful.

I have been the recipient of blatant discrimination and with all that I have been through I never gave up. It's important to understand that we are all sent here to this earth for a purpose and life is more than having sex, eating, drinking, etc. But life is to be lived to its fullest and the only way to do that is to discover the meaning to your existence. Throughout the past two years I have been indicted on six felonies facing 27 years in prison for something I did not do all because someone wanted to make a "name" for themselves. Now if I was to say that I am a perfect person I would be lying to you, however, the things that I was accused of I can say with full assurance that I am, was, and will always be innocent of.

Well, anyway, the bottom line is life is no game, this is REAL! Life is real and should be taken seriously and every moment counts! You cannot afford to waste and squander any more time. Back when I was young, I could afford to waste time, I could afford to live for the moment but not any longer. Looking at all the devastation that is taking place in the world, it is important to live for tomorrow and re-connect to the divine intention for which you were sent into the world.

THIS IS NOT A GAME so make each moment count NOT for today but more so for tomorrow. PLEASE, there are generations coming behind you counting on you to think about them and not just yourself.

Back Better Than Ever

2008-11-13T15:17:00.004-05:00

After a long break from the usual routine I am back on this blog and unless God leads me somewhere different, I am back to stay! I thank God everyday for His grace and mercy for allowing me to get back to doing what I love, which is reaching out and encouraging people.

What's next for Pastor Rich? Well, I am now the Senior Pastor of Rock of Ages Church. If you know anything about all the hell I've been through in the past year, you are probably wondering to yourself, "how did that happen?" I ask myself the same thing almost on a daily basis but it's true, God did it! I thank Him because I know it was only His grace and mercy that has protected me for the past year with the many trials and tribulations that plagued me. My testimony is that He took me out of the pit and delivered me out of the hand of my enemies!
Anyway, moving on because God is a perpetual God. He keeps exceeding His greatness! For what it's worth, I am alot wiser and stronger and am able to minister to a larger audience having gone through the court system the way I did. It's more than a notion. I realized more than I have ever before how much of a threat I am to the kingdom of darkness. While it remains to be seen what God is going to manifest in the days to come, I wait with anticipation because I know I am not loving Him and living for Him for nothing!

Till next time...

ROB+

My Prodigal Son is Home

2008-11-09T22:00:00.003-05:00

One of these days I am going to have ample time to write down what all I've been through over the past 18 months, however, quickly, I was lied on, ostracized, criticized, ridiculed, rejected from some of my closest friends, and even crucified publicly. But through it all I held on to God's word! I stood still so I could see His salvation!

Well, one of the relationships that was destroyed over 18 months ago began to be restored this morning while I was speaking at my church. My thought for today was, "The Things that have Happened to Me..." and I discuss the Apostle Paul's letter to the church of Phillipi when he was encouraging them while he was in prison to not lose heart and give up the fight. He admonished them to see the glory in tribulations by understanding that everything that happens in your life, takes place for the further advancing of the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

How many of us need to reflect over the past year or two and think about the circumstances of life and how we could have handled situations that were out of our control? We all could stand to read Paul's writings to remember that no matter how bad it gets, it could always be worse.

Well, one of my sons showed up while I was giving my testimony at the end of the message and he heard me say that it was good that I went through my ordeal last year. I was indicted by a grand jury and was facing over 28 years over the lies spread on me, but God is faithful and I was vindicated and through the course of this ordeal, my love never wavered for my son. I understand that there is a mantle on my life to cover the next generation and I fully understand my calling. I never stopped being who God ordained me to be.

While I was talking, when I saw him come in, I almost gagged because it had been over a year and a half since we conversed. I heard from numbers of people all the things he would say about me, and although it was painful, I continued to press on. As the prodigal's son returned to him, the joy of the father pushed him to "run" and greet him. That's how I felt today because I invited him up in front of everybody and spoke into his ear the following words, "ALL IS KNOWN AND ALL IS FORGIVEN!"

This is a powerful statement because we made amends and I told him that I never stopped loving him. I know one thing for sure, God's hand is on his life and He is blessed and highly favored and his future is bright! He is going to reach numbers of gang members for the Lord in the days to come...

My son, whom I hadn't seen in 18 months is back home with his dad!

God is faithful and will do just what He says He will do!

I Wear the Title, It Doesn't Wear Me

2008-11-07T23:03:00.005-05:00

It's been quite a long time since I've posted to this blog! It almost feels like eternity because so much has taken place since my last blog!

What happened? Why did I stop blogging? Why am I back? These and other issues I will discuss as I get back into the swing of posting on a regular basis! I appreciate the love and prayers sent my way during my long absence. There is so much I want to share, I really don't know where to begin.

Since I last blogged alot of changes have taken place in my life. The most important to me is that I now serve as the Senior Pastor of Rock of Ages Church in Toledo, Ohio. It's a small church with a huge heart. The members have all welcomed me with open arms and have worked diligently to bring me up to speed with what's going on. I am very excited about the things that are taking place at "The Rock" Church and I am putting all of my time in making sure that this ministry is on the cutting edge as it relates to ministry.

Real LYFE has always been special to me because it gave me the platform to address real issues that pertain to everyday life. I will continue to blog about tangible issues even though I am now a pastor because I make the title, the title does not make me!

Take care for now and again, I'm glad to be back!

A New Year and Alot Going On

2007-01-09T22:00:00.000-05:00

With the new year off to a very fast start, it's become evident that I need to take a couple of weeks off from the weekly regimen and get some things in order before I get back to the routine of blogging okay?

I've been getting all sorts of emails and I do appreciate knowing that so many keep up with my writings! It's good to know that someone out there is paying attention! Remember, even while on this brief sabbatical, it's still about the children. 2007 is about stepping out into some uncomfortable territory to make the lives of the next generation better than today!

Take care and God speed!

Richard

So give me a couple weeks to get my life together and I'll be back to my routine! Hey, nobody told me that running a campaign was so time consuming! :)

A New Year

2007-01-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

This year won't be like last year in that last year I spent a lot of time second guessing myself. I've decided that in 2007, I'm going to be more focused on achieving many of the goals that have been set before me. This is a year where the "rubber meets the road!" People who are not assets will be deleted from the equation of life in my book. The reason why I've decided to do this is because of the old adage that says, "guilt by association." I don't have any time to be with the wrong crowd because there are a lot of things on my plate that have to be addressed and confronted this year to better the purposes of the next generation.

I live to help others and realize and understand that I am where I am because of my service and devotion to my young people. I want nothing more than for them to be exposed to the greatness of this world and for that to take place, I have to make sure that I am the best "ME" that I can be. Having liabilities connected to me rather than assets will eventually hinder me from walking into the potential that is before me. So, in this new year that is full of opportunities, I am making every attempt to keep myself focused on maximizing my potential because great things are in store!

Greater Than Now

2007-01-04T16:00:00.000-05:00

The trouble that you go through on a daily basis should be worth it IF and only IF you're working towards a prize that is greater than yourself!

Stronger for the Change

2007-01-02T07:30:00.000-05:00

For far too long many people sit and complain about the situation (whatever it may be) and give the situation far too much power than they should. If you were to take a moment and realize that as this new year has already begun, you are a lot more stronger than you were this time last year. Stop bickering and complaining about the shoulda, coulda, woulda's of life and be thankful for the obstacles because they gave you the platform upon which you stand today!

If you were to be honest and, as many of the youth say all the time, REAL, you would have to admit that you are a lot stronger this year than you were last year! 2006 was a time of great adversity and realignment and now that 2007 is IN PLAY, understand and know that you are stronger for the change! You had to encounter the difficult things in order to be who you are today! So rest in the assurance of knowing that the next generation will be better off because of 2006.

Real talk...

2007: In It To Win It!

2007-01-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

A new year brings with it new opportunities! In this new year, I'm expecting exceeding and abundance from every direction. All of the obstacles that were placed in front of me were sent purposefully in order to mature me and prepare me for my destiny! The situation, as it is now, as it pertains to our youth is too important to bring anything from yesterday into 2007! This is a new year! This is a new day and it shouldn't be encumbered with the mess from yesterday. I'm going to let 2006 rest on its own and move forward for the sake of those coming behind me! I believe they deserve better...

2007 is going to be a year where huge issues have to be addressed in order for the community that I live in to move forward. I'm preparing to run for a seat on the Toledo Public School Board of Education because there will be two open seats and I believe that I'm the perfect fit for the dysfunction that has tired everybody! 2007 is going to be a year of no nonsense where the kids come first! We've spent too much time bickering and complaining over the minutia and little has been accomplished. I'm in it for the kids!

This is real talk because I'm tired of the status quo. 2007 is a year that I'm in it to win it!

Live for Tomorrow

2006-12-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

Don't ever forget that the things that we do today, affect the next three to four generations. This is something that I always keep in the forefront of my mind because it's true and because it helps me to keep life in perspective. Too often people live for the moment and never take time to see further than themselves. Our youth deserve an opportunity that only we can give them if we truly understand the magnitude of the decisions we make.

Decisions come and go but one thing that remains consistently consistent is that just as we are born, we will eventually die. And the question is, what inheritance will we leave the next generation? Will we leave them in debt or will they inherit a wealth of knowledge, opportunity, and promise? I challenge you today to live for tomorrow because our youth deserve more than we have today!

This is real talk!

Serving Our Youth

2006-12-26T06:20:00.000-05:00

It's important to remember that throughout the hustle and bustle of the day that our greatest reward comes from our service to mankind. For me, there is nothing that I treasure more than my work with and for the youth of this nation. This month makes it ten years that I've been working on a volunteer basis for young people from all walks of life and I have to say that I've gained so much insight that I wouldn't have had had I relied on "book knowledge."

There is a huge difference between book knowledge and world experience and I've allowed the latter to be my guide in my daily interactions with our young people. I've discovered that they come from a totally different world than I did and it was important for me to major in LISTENING. This is a skill that a lot of adults lack, mainly out of ignorance, but they really need to learn this skill as soon as possible.

Through listening I've been able to understand where our young people are coming from which is more than I can say for those who choose to "preach AT" rather than "talk TO." Listening has completely taken my level of understanding to a plateau that I might have never reached or attained had I chosen to follow the "rules of engagement" per a book. Listening to the voices of our youth have brought me a much bigger crowd of youth and young adults who now look at me as a leader, guide, parent, role model, mentor, etc. Had I drawn my lines in the sand and gave them a list of what I did and didn't accept from the start, things wouldn't be the way they are now.

I'm honored to have been given the honor and privilege to serve our youth and look forward to the road ahead. What will it consist of? who knows??? but I'm excited and anticipating going to the "next level" in service for our youth! In case you didn't know, it's not too late to save them. I, for one, think it's worth the effort because our youth are our richest and most valuable resource.

Real Talk.

Merry Christmas

2006-12-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

May this season cause you to seek out your true purpose for being created! This is a time that Christians celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus who was sent to save the world! Remember that He is the reason for the season. The old adage says, "it's more blessed to give than to receive." Purpose is found through service, so with that said, seek and you will find, knock and the "door" will be opened for you.

As the year is coming to a close, take this time to reflect, remember, and recommit to a purpose that is bigger than both you and I. The purpose of which I'm speaking is that of SERVING MANKIND! Be blessed on this day and as you go into 2007.

Real Talk!

Let's Move On

2006-12-21T22:46:00.000-05:00

There comes a time when you have to put aside petty differences and personal innuendos and move forward to get work done. I attended a board meeting the other evening and what I witnessed from adults made me question what I was at. I literally, after listening to all of the bickering that went back and forth, thought that I was listening to a bunch children who were upset that they couldn't get their way.

Let me help you out since many of you may not have a clue as to what I'm talking about. I'm really thinking hard about running for a seat on the Toledo Public Schools Board of Education. Since I'm in serious thought about this issue, I decided that I'd attend a meeting just to see for myself what actually takes place. My eyes were opened during the process of the meeting because I saw things that really surprised me coming from that of our elected officials. There is so much divisiveness on the board, to be honest, nothing can truly get accomplished. Things are so partisan on a non-partisan board that I found it amazing that no one took a swing at each other like on the tube the other night between the Denver Nuggets and the New York Knicks!

Things have to change in order for the community to begin healing but for this to begin, our board members have got to put personal gripes aside and work together. For the good of the whole, it's imperative that they come together and begin communicating because there are serious issues plaguing our city and the decisions that the school board makes will have a domino affect on that of our city!

Whatever your profession and wherever you live please remember that somebody somewhere is looking to you for leadership! You may not ever know who they are, but trust me, they are watching everything you say and do, so for the love of God, lets move forward and do what's right for the betterment of our youth and community!

Let's move on! How 'bout it?

What Are You Gonna Do?

2006-12-19T01:45:00.000-05:00

Whatever happens, understand and realize that the things you do...any and everything will affect the next three to four generations! They are watching you every minute of the day and when you least imagine, their eyes are focused and fixated on you!

Be careful as to what your actions will be because if you are out of line you will need to explain to our youth just why you feel you are justified to do "whatever" you think you can do. Remember that our young people are very impressionable and they are desperately looking for leadership wherever they can find it, so beware as you proceed forward in life!

You can't do anything without understanding and realizing that it will come back on you, whether good or bad, that's up to you to decide. But the fact remains that the balls in your court. The question is, "what will you do about it?"

LYFE is to be lived to the fullest, but it can only be fulfilled when the expectations are achieved. The question then becomes, are you living to the fullest? If not, what are you gonna do to achieve this level of success? Or are you going to do anything at all?

Don't Look at Now, Think Down the Road

2006-12-18T23:30:00.000-05:00

It's easy to get discouraged as to where your life appears to be headed, but if you are anything like me, you should always and forever keep in mind that the race isn't given to the swift or to the strong, but it's given to the one who endures to the end. This is a huge feat to accomplish because it has everything to do with a Mind-Set change. In LYFE, we tend to look at things based on what we see with the natural eye. However, it's important to remember that life is a journey and can't be determined by the here and now, but rather by the "down the road!"

Life, as they say in the movie Forrest Gump, is "like a box of chocolates." You never know what you're going to get until you sink your teeth into it. And in so doing, it's important that we put our best foot forward as we set forth to accomplish something that may have not been accomplished. As we set our sights to move forward into new terrain, we have to get a gauge of what's come before and realize that we aren't guaranteed a free ride. We're not guaranteed a "walk in the park" either. Every day that we get up, it's important that we put our best foot forward and walk into destiny, even though the outlook may not look or feel good some days.

We have to forget about the hear and now. We have to lay aside the weights of life that easily get us to throw in the towel, and we have to press towards a higher goal of achievement because oftentimes we forget that there is a generation coming behind us that is looking at everything. We have to forge together so that we can prepare for a "new day" of leadership down the road. If we aren't careful in preparing for what may come, the "not yet" will be today so we better get ready for what's down the road!

What do you think?

Never Stop Fighting

2006-12-14T23:32:00.000-05:00

This is the statement in the movie, The Untouchables, that Elliott Ness said to Al Capone after Capone's attorney withdraw their original plea and basically entered a plea. CASE CLOSED! Through the course of the movie, Elliott Ness, played by Kevin Costner, had to endure a lot of heartache and grief. He even had to contemplate whether or not he was going to remain on the case to get enough evidence to arrest Al Capone. Did he stop when the going got rough? No! What he did was continued on and persevered regardless of the circumstances because I believe that he saw a brighter day ahead.

In the movie, Elliott had to contend with the fact that his actions directly affected the livelihood of his wife and daughter. Was that enough pressure to make him quit? Again, the answer is a resounding NO! The character, Elliott Ness, kept on fighting the crime boss every chance he got until his preparation met up and collided with opportunity! THIS IS A MOMENT THAT WE ALL HAVE TO PREPARE OURSELVES FOR. If Elliott Ness had not been in the right place at the right time, history may have been quite different.

So, what is the thought that I'm trying to convey today. Here it is: At the end of the day, Elliott Ness was able to feel a sense of accomplishment because he achieved a goal that many others had died trying to pursue. There were even partners of his that were murdered but Elliott Ness kept on fighting until the fight was won! That's the first thing that Elliott said to Al Capone at the end of the movie. "Never stop fighting until the fight is won!"

Keep on fighting and don't stop! The next generation is worth it, don't you think?

Lose Yourself

2006-12-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

Oftentimes we allow life's situations to overwhelm us to the point to where we are unable to enjoy the moment. But I encourage you to think beyond now and set your mind towards the future! If you can do this, you can then lose yourself in the moment of time that God has given you to make a difference.

I'm not saying this as one who doesn't know how difficult this can be because I do. I, like many of you, have been encumbered with bureaucratic policies that are an attempt to discourage and distract at every step of the pursuit. But I challenge you to do just what I've done and that is LOSE YOURSELF IN THE MOMENT! Because success hinges on preparation meeting opportunity at the right time and at the right place. Will you let bureaucracy keep you from achieving your goals? Will you let someones intimidation hinder you from reaching your destiny? I don't think so!

Rise up and take your rightful place in this moment in time and realize that you may not get another chance to prove yourself strong! So never quit fighting til the fight is over! You've got too much riding on this feat to give up now! So lose yourself and go for what you know! The lives of our youth are depending on you!

Real talk...

Take a Position and Stick with It

2006-12-11T01:15:00.000-05:00

The thought for the day is that we need to be consistently consistent when it comes to conveying a POSITIVE message to the youth of today. If there is something that we lack more than ever before, it is consistency. As I have seen through my travels to the juvenile detention center and many other facilities that house our troubled youth, I see a pattern that desperately needs to be addressed which is our inability as adults to be consistently consistent.

This isn't addressed to one particular group of people because adults, parents, leaders, elected officials, business officials, and clergy all struggle with this issue. We tend to go with flow and blame our inefficiencies on other things rather than confessing the reality that we don't know what we really want to do. In essence, we would rather lie and act as if we have it together rather than be honest and transparent and just say that we "don't know" what our next move will be. This inability to convey a consistent message has played a vital role in the decay of our youth.

We continue to forget that the eyes of our youth are watching everything we say and do. We have to make decisions and stick with them. No matter how tough it is, it is important for us to realize that the things we do affect the next three to four generations. If we fail, as adults, to see the importance of being consistently consistent, we will continue to see a downward spiral in this nation when it comes to the productivity of our young people. Consistency provides stability which is paramount in the foundation of a healthy life. A healthy life will produce a healthy family which, in turn, produces a healthy neighborhood, school, church, etc.

My question today for you to ponder is how long will it take for us to realize that it's no one's fault but ours for the decay and corruption that we see today? It's time for us to face up and be accountable so that tomorrow can be a brighter day for the next generation!

This is just real talk...

Give Back

2006-12-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

The things that surround you can exert a powerful influence on you.And you can use that influence to your advantage. Surround yourself with positive influences. Let them serve as subtle and constant reminders to be your very best. Arrange your physical environment so that it encourages and promotes focus and creativity. Choose to spend your time surrounded by things that lift you up. Get yourself around people who will reinforce the values and goals you consider to be most meaningful. Spend time with people who challenge you to be your best. Seek out situations that enable you to connect with and fulfill your most deeply held purposes. Learn which surroundings inspire you most, and find a way to spend time in them. Though it is certainly possible to flourish in spite of your surroundings, life proceeds much more smoothly when your environment exerts a positive influence. Surround yourself with the best you can imagine, and it will start to get to you.

Author Unknown

As I read this, I couldn't help but imagine if our children were constantly put into an environment where opportunity was at their disposal, I wonder what would our future look like? As I constantly work to make the lives of those coming behind us better, I couldn't help but wonder how different things could be or would be if we would be a little less selfish and a little more giving. As I attempt to speak life into the hearts and minds of tomorrow's leaders, I can't help but dream the impossible! I am not like the average person because I refuse to believe that things can't get better for our youth. But for things to change, the change has to start within! So, I challenge each of you to mentor and give back to those who are coming behind because our future will be determined by the things we do today!

Reflect about TOMORROW

2006-12-05T21:42:00.000-05:00

Again, it's great to be back! For the past month I've been in "reflection" mode pondering a lot of things that I have had to endure for 2006. This has been a long and arduous year. Many hills and valleys and yet, when I thought the "drama" was over, I endured some mountains and cliffs! But can I tell you something? I'm stronger today than I was on January 1, 2006! I'm more committed to the Lord today than ever before! I'm prepared better today to fight for our children than I could have ever been had I tried to escape the principle of suffering!

For those of you who don't understand or may even think that I'm smoking the "pipe," let me explain. To the natural eye, it seems or appears crazy to look at disasters or cataclysmic events as situations that bring out the best! However, I see these "things" as the ultimate way to find out just how strong you are. For instance, the caterpillar would never be able to become the butterfly if someone were to assist them in their "cocoon" season. The cocoon is there to protect, nurture, and to shield. God gives the caterpillar the innate ability to tear through the cocoon. Without this final push or test, the caterpillar would die because it was divinely orchestrated by the Master for these things to take place in order for the transition to occur in the process to becoming the BUTTERFLY!

So, what am I saying? The events that took place this year, while they may have been difficult, worked out to manifest in me the strength and perseverance needed for my final destination. As it is for me, so it is the same for many of you. The things that you feared or tried to avoid in your life took place anyway and in hindsight you are the "better" for it. Am I right? In the scripture, I believe it was David that was quoted to say, "it was good that I was afflicted..." I believe the reason he could utter such words was due to the fact of the character and determination that was built in the process of his struggles! Through the pain and persecution of life should come a determination to NEVER stop fighting until the fight is done!

Today, receive in your heart and be thankful that God loved you enough to test you and to show you just exactly what was inside of you! If you are anything like me, you can handle anything because no matter how difficult things get you continue to remember that a generation is coming behind you who is praying that you remember that it's not all about today but about what you leave for their tomorrow.

Now this is real talk!

Better Than Ever

2006-12-04T07:06:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have been emailing and calling about NOT receiving the Real Lyfe blogs, the wait is now over! After taking the past month for some much needed R&R, Real Lyfe is back, better than ever! For those of you who don't know, our passion is and has always been young people.

Everything, and I do mean EVERYTHING we do affects the next three to four generations and we have to make sure that we keep that in the forefront of our minds because these kids need us now more than ever before! They need us to guide and direct them, but more so than anything else, they want us to love them. Someone reading this may be asking, "how can I show love to a young person in this day and time?" LISTEN, this is something that a lot of us need help with doing because when it comes to our young people we tend to not want to be bothered, or if we make time for them, we spend more time preaching AT them then we do conversating WITH them.

Young people do not want to be preached too so try talking to them and then LISTEN! You can learn a lot about what a child is going through by watching and simply observing their actions! Oftentimes their actions speak louder than any words could ever tell you. As we finish out the year pray for the lives of our young people! The best is still yet to come!

Special Note: It's good to be back in the "saddle" producing blogs for the good of the whole! Look out for some big things coming in the days ahead!

GO...REST

2006-10-31T21:35:00.000-05:00

There comes a time when you have to stop and rest! The journey has been long and hard and well, it's time to stop and rest for a minute. This is vital on the journey of LYFE because people often get caught up in the hustle and bustle without even thinking of the cost! If you don't get the appropriate amount of rest, you run the risk of weakening your immune system and possibly getting sick or even getting infected with a virus which could lead to being terminal.

It's time re-focus and re-prioritize goals because what WAS important may not be as important as was once thought. As you slow down and rest, you'll see that half the crap that you held "dear and near" didn't amount to much of anything. During the next 30 days allow God to RE-invent you into something that exceeds your wildest expectations. For real, take what you thought was the best and destroy it because during this season of rest, you're going to see even greater than before! My scripture during times like this is from the book of Jeremiah where it reads "if you have run with the footmen and they have tired you, then how will you contend with the horses..."

My question is IF you don't get the rest that you desperately need and deserve then how will you keep up when things get even more hectic?

Just something to ponder for the next 30 days...REAL TALK!

A Moment in Time

2006-10-30T20:00:00.000-05:00

As the saying goes, "all good things must come to an end." Well, that is how I'm feeling today. I just returned from my favorite city, the city that played a vital and crucial role in my development into the person that I am today, ATLANTA. This past weekend I had a rather cataclysmic experience, to say the least, in that I was able to reflect, once more, on how far I had come on this journey called LYFE. So many people take LYFE for granted and never live to their fullest expectations, but rather, they settle for the status quo. How unfortunate is that when I believe that everyone of us was born to be great!

The city of Atlanta has played a heavy role in my process to manhood in that during my time there I was afforded the opportunity to glean from the likes of great men who will go down in history as pillars and patriots. These were patriots who championed a cause greater than our day, they championed a cause for the underdog in making sure that the less fortunate were brought to the table of justice and given their fair share! The men that I am referring to are Ambassador Andrew Young, Mayor Maynard Jackson, Congressman John Lewis, the Reverend Jesse Jackson, Herman Cain, and my college president, Dr. Walter Massey. These men, in their own individual ways, stood tall and proud in the midst of oppression and segregation! They had a determination that they weren't going to let anybody turn them around. This is what comprises the atmosphere of the city of Atlanta, Georgia.

LYFE is based on moments, defining moments that come at certain crossroads. It's the decision that is reached upon coming into contact with the crossroad that determines the altitude that you take as you prepare to take flight! Some ascend and a great many descend because they didn't have the wherewithal to endure the affliction and hardship that played a part in the making of greatness!

Well, this past weekend, I was able to walk the sacred ground that I called home for 4 years and it was during this time that I was reminded of "the call." I was reminded that I was here, on this earth, for a greater reason than to make a name for myself. I was sent here, by God, to address an issue! I was sent here to serve as a standard and to inspire others to rise above the shackles of oppression and to challenge them to reach up to their destiny!

This weekend served, in part, to help me put things in perspective the bigger picture of LYFE! Dr. King said, "everybody can be great because everybody can serve," this is most definitely true. However, the failure in never discovering the essence of servanthood is what is tragic because you produce of lifetime of squandered opportunities. I ended the weekend by attending what many call church, but I call it a "divine encounter" with the Master.

Before I knew it, I was back in Toledo, Ohio and it was as if I hadn't traveled anywhere because of how quickly the time went by. I learned something through this ordeal, TIME WAITS FOR NO ONE. So I'll say this, we all have been sent here to do a "work" that only we can do. What God gave you to do, is not what He gave me, but we are uniquely joined together to help one another. As I stated at the beginning, LYFE is full of moments in time and as you continue to live I pray that you will be enlightened and challenged to live each day to the fullest! Yesterday was a moment in time that I will never get back, but I will forever hold fast to the MOMENT because that is the only means that I will have to determine the TIME!

Now that's real talk...

Be On Your Way

2006-10-26T00:05:00.000-04:00

No matter how things look and how bad things may get continue to be on your way! Don't allow yourself to get hindered with the daily distractions that can be overwhelming! Keep your dreams forever before you, chart your course and be on your way! The road will not be easy, but with God, all things are possible! Don't let anyone steal your excitement by planting seeds of doubt. Your best days are still yet ahead of you so I'll tell you again, to be on your way! There are generations whose lives will be forever altered because you didn't stop and give up! Destiny awaits...

See Yourself

2006-10-24T04:15:00.000-04:00

As you go through LYFE, you have to see yourself as the finished product before you can walk into destiny! There is no such thing as stumbling into destiny because if you can stumble in and get it that easy, then it's easy to possibly fall short and lose it as well. Some of you have waited your entire life to be experiencing many of the blessings that you are experiencing right now.

See yourself in that office overlooking the downtown skyline! See yourself in your dream home. See yourself in good health on the beach sipping on some soda. See yourself at a place peace and tranquility in a cottage overlooking the mountains. See yourself speaking words of life to kings and queens. See yourself being the person of "chief" influence and being called upon to counsel nations. See yourself completely debt free. See yourself stress free! See yourself as the ruler God ordained you to be. See yourself completely rid of all of your enemies.

In the book of II Samuel, it reads that when David had defeated all of his enemies and was at a place of complete rest, he had more time to devote completely to God so much so that he desired to build God a house to worship Him in. His desire was so pure and heartfelt that God, in turn, honored him and told him that He was going to establish David and build David's house to where his lineage would forever sit on the throne!

Isn't that amazing? Because David reached the place of Destiny, his whole blood line was forever blessed! When you and I can see ourselves in the future sitting at rest from all of our enemies, we too, put ourselves in the place where our entire bloodline, for generations will be blessed. One of the things that I love about God is that He said that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These three generations paved the way for Joseph to rule and save his entire family as well in Egypt.

I say this all the time but the things we do today affects the next three to four generations, so please hear me when I say, SEE YOURSELF IN THE FUTURE!!! (On your mark, get set...)

Now that's real talk!

Get On Your Mark...

2006-10-23T16:45:00.000-04:00

There are seasons in life where you are preparing for something big! Something that is extraordinary that is getting ready to take place in your life that is mind boggling! This is what you have been preparing for for quite sometime and it's time to get yourself in the starting posture. Feel me? You know when you're watching the track and field events during the olympic games, the runners who have been preparing, spend moments in absolute silence while they are stretching their muscles. They are preparing themselves for an event that they've spent years in the gym training for. So much time and effort have gone into this, if something goes wrong, all is lost!

This is what I mean when I say, "get on your mark!" The gun is about to go off into the air to announce to some and pronounce to others that the race is on. In LYFE, we have all been assigned a lane to run for our own individual race on the road to destiny and we have no time to hesitate because this is what you and I both have been waiting for. As I've said before, the climate is right, track and field events can't be done in certain weather, it has to be in the right climate because if not, you run the risk of damaging key muscles in your legs! So, I'll say it again, get on your mark.

The stadium is filling up with people who have been waiting to see who the winner will be. Will it be you? You see, in this race on the road to destiny, only you can determine whether or not you will win. You, your attitude, your outlook, your perspective, all of this goes into play on the road to destiny because of the lives that are at stake! There are generations waiting in the stands who have yet to be born who are cheering you on just like there are those who trained all of their life but were unable to qualify for the event and are now apart of the cloud of witnesses that the bible refers to. So as the stadium fills up, see yourself reaching your goal and finishing your race! See yourself as victorious! See yourself wearing the gold medal of LYFE.

So it can be said that "you ran your race and finished your course...there is now a reward that awaits you because you didn't give up!" Generations yet to be born are saying "thank you!" Now that you SEE IT, GET ON YOUR MARK...

The Climate

2006-10-19T06:45:00.001-04:00

The climate is ripe in this season for the right “exchange” to take place. By exchange I mean, to live in the body, you inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. You trade (or exchange) what is inside of you with the opportunities that lay dormant on the outside of the body. In other words, there are endless possibilities that become available when you step on to new fertile ground, in a new season with endless possibilities (an optimal climate). In so doing, you take great risks to walk into an uncomfortable situation in order to glean in the new possibilities that are ahead.

Breathing does not require you to speak, so in the spiritual realm you don't have to speak to pick up new attributes and characteristics. This can work for you or against you, and it is all dependent upon whom you choose to surround yourself with. So let me ask you are you with positive influences or negative influences? Take a moment, if you will, to reflect on who or what you've allowed to entertain your thoughts and mind for the past 30 days. For me, the past 30 days have been somewhat phenomenal because I made a conscious decision to only put myself around people who could challenge me to achieve greatness. I only wanted to be with those who had a achieved a certain level of success. Putting myself in these "circles of influence" was vital and important for me as I focused more on reaching my personal goals for my LYFE.

The bottom line is that people that we meet should be in one of two categories, assets or liabilities. It would be foolish for me to think that I could hang around JUST anybody but still yet have high aspirations to reach the stars! No, if that's a goal, then I have to put myself around those who think the same. If my only goal is to live, eat, and be merry, then I don't have to do much to find people who think like that. But for people who, like me, know they are destined for greatness, we have to be careful as to who we allow to be in our presence because being with the wrong crowd can have a negative affect on your outlook or outcome.

I tell my young people all the time, "your crowd can make or break you!" You have to be careful during this season of transition to make the right decisions to put yourself in the right company that can accelerate you to a "point of no return." Otherwise, you run the risk of delaying not just your own breakthrough but also those who are connected to you. In science class, when I was a child, I remember that I learned a law which goes like this, "Every action has an equal or opposite reaction!" In life, we tend to think that because we may be grown, we can make our own decisions and do what we want to do and that no one else is affected. But that is not true. The decisions we make affect the next three to four generations that come behind us and if we don't believe it, take a look at the decisions your grandparents and parents made and ask yourself if your plight in life has been altered in any way because of the decisions that were made in years prior.

Just something to think about!

How I Live

2006-10-17T05:30:00.000-04:00

I have some habits inside of me that won’t stop me from walking into what God has ordained, no matter what it costs. This is what has hindered me because before such a time, I thought it was because I wasn’t holy enough or maybe I didn’t have enough faith to believe, but now I understand that God will continue to allow thorns to remain in my life in order to keep me humble. He’ll keep them forever before or in front of me to remind me that it’s in Him that I live, I move, and I have my being. My state of being is not determined by what’s going on inside of me, that’s not a matter that I should be overwhelmed by. But rather, I have to keep my sights on things above, or better put, I’ve got to stay focused on the work that God has called me to, which is LIVING to my fullest expectations!

It’s amazing to note that God understands the things that I hate. The things that I am ashamed of that are still hitting me on a consistent basis in my walk, that, prior to today, have made me to believe that I couldn’t inhabit the “fat” of the land. But now I know and understand that the blood covers and the blood gives me access to stand before my Father who has already made provision for me. He has already given me the ability to stand in His righteousness to operate as “Christ” in the earth. So there is no need to fear or fret about the shortcomings, because as ME, I will continue to make mistakes, but when He who lives on the inside of me MANIFESTS Himself, it is not I but it is He who lives on the inside of me that operates and makes a way when there is no way!

This is how I live, this is how I operate, this is how I can walk with my head held high and my chest out because I know in whom I have believed. I know that Christ, my redeemer lives because He’s in me and He’s given me all power and authority to break the “back” of the evil one. This is how I live…and this is what has to be conveyed to the generation coming behind. They need to know and understand that we aren’t perfect but that there is only perfection in Christ.

Now that's real talk...

Back-to-Back

2006-10-16T04:30:00.000-04:00

Seasons come and seasons go, true enough, however, there are some seasons in life that come that take your breath away because of how overwhelming things get and how extraordinary God is. This is what's going on NOW. I'm looking for the extraordinary to take place because I've awakened the "giant" on the inside of me. God says in His word that "the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof," meaning since I'm His child, what's His is mine. Why don't we act like this as believers? He also tells us in His word that He will do exceeding and abundant above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. So, being that we don't operate at this capacity, where is the power?

God doesn't lie and He's not the author of confusion, so I'm willing to submit that most of the headaches we encounter on a daily basis, take place because we never walk in the authority that He's already given. We, for some reason, refuse to wake up the Christ that lives on the inside of us. We'd rather operate as slaves and servants when His word tells us that He made us sons and daughters. He further tells us in His word that He's given us all authority to be the Priests and Kings but do we ever operate at our fullest potential? NO

This is exactly why I'm done with the normal and mediocre of life. God, evidently wants us, as His children, to experience more out of life so that's exactly where my faith is taking me NOW! I'm looking for the extraordinary because as the gospel group, Commissioned, said the "ordinary just won't do!" I'm ready to operate at my fullest potential because I realize now that the next generation gleans off of how I operate. You see, I have a crowd looking at me and if I walk around living at only 40% capacity, I can't expect anything more from the youth and young adults that I speak too day-in and day-out. But when I operate at 110% I can now speak and call up young people and challenge them to "come up higher" in their thinking! I can call them from a dead state and challenge them to live to their fullest expectations.

That's where the "Y" in LYFE comes from, Living to Your Fullest Expectations. Most of us refuse to operate at this level of expectancy for one reason or another, but as for me and MY HOUSE, we're going to conquer territories that were ordained for us to conquer. We're going to inherit and walk where our ancestors couldn't. Generational curses end right here right NOW! There is a greater dimension that God wants our young people to operate in and that means that I have to be a first partaker in walking the walk. I can't expect them to do something that I'm not willing to do, can I?

God said that He would rebuke the devourer for our sake and the nations of this earth would call us blessed! Blessed in the city and blessed in the field would be our testimony. We are in a season of back-to-back blessings so prepare for a tsunami to take place if your willing to dare to believe that God can and will and has already given us the victory! The word for the week is Back-to-Back-to-Back!

Now that's real talk!

Conquor the Gutter

2006-10-12T06:15:00.000-04:00

Oftentimes in life we tend to run away from problems because of how uncomfortable they make us feel, but if we'd realize and understand that problems are supposed to be running from us, not the other way around. Time and time again it never fails, you'll see people avoiding circumstances as if avoiding them is going to make them go away. I'm not sure what's behind the logic because I've always been the person who confronted issues head on because the "churchy" way of handling situations didn't work, in my eyes.

In the book of II Samuel, the fifth chapter, we find David, at 30 years of age, faced with a huge dilemma. He is already king but there is more territory that he is supposed to conquer, but he's told that he can't prevail against it at any cost. He's basically mocked at and dared to even try to take the "stronghold of Zion." He's told that unless he comes up the gutter he won't prevail, so do you know what David does? I'm glad you asked, he comes through the gutter, he basically does what they said he had to do because he knew that his destiny was to be king.

Personally, I believe that David possibly thought back to the time when he was a teenager and he faced Goliath, the giant. He figured that if God got him through that situation, then He's the same God yesterday, today, and forever more so He's able to do this too, and there you have it, King David prevailed!

Whatever obstacle you're facing in life, know that if God brings you to it, He's already given you everything you need to get you through it. Further on in the chapter after King David conquers the stronghold, he names what he was told he couldn't have after him and calls it the "city of David." In other words, he conquered his problem and then put his name on it. :) Talk about crazy boldness!

The last scripture that I want to lift up to you is the scripture that says, "so David went on and grew great and the Lord of hosts was with him." David couldn't go on and grow great until after he conquered his gutter. So what are you waiting on? The Lord is with you, to fight for you, to save you! What more do you need?

Real talk...

Do Something Crazy

2006-10-10T05:30:00.000-04:00

I preached at a church this past weekend for a youth service and I challenged the congregation to do something non-traditional or crazy in order to reach this present generation. The text that I used in the illustration was from the Gospel according to John, chapter 9, where a man was born blind from birth and the disciples wanted to point blame at either the blind man or his parents. Isn't that just like church folk, to find someone to point a finger at? Well, after the disciples asked Jesus who sinned, Jesus responded by saying neither but that this had come to pass so that God could show Himself strong!

In the midst of a concise and precise piece of exegetical text, Jesus does something crazy and unusual. He spits on the ground. This didn't make sense to me when I read it, and still to this day, it sounds rather abstract and against the norm, but this is what it took to reach the masses, doing something unusual! How many of us are willing to do something unorthodox to reach this generation of young people who are hurting and abandoned? How many are uninhibited with their own personal drama to the point where they can handle the burdens of our youth? Most young people that I talk to on a daily basis across the country look at church as irrelevant because most of what goes on inside the four walls has nothing to do with Monday through Saturday living.

From our choice of music to the style of preaching, our youth are hungry, looking and waiting for people to shed the hype and the drama and the fluff and give them real sincere ministry. The type of ministry that they're looking for is that one-on-one relationship that you only get when you're able to be real and transparent and show them the wounds from your own past and tell how God brought you out. I challenged the congregation to NOT hold the youth to what was done "back in the day" but to encourage them to serve and give God praise in their own way.

In the book of I Samuel, we see where Saul (representing the old school) tried to put his armor on David (representing the new school) so that David could fight Goliath. Well, most of us know the story and David was unable to use King Saul's armor because it was too heavy and it didn't fit him. He had to fight Goliath with his sling shot and with 3 rocks. In other words, he had to fight using what he had because that was what was more comfortable for him. What am I saying? Let young people be themselves and begin understanding where they are coming from before placing judgment.

God said that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He's the God of the generations, not just in the good times, but in the bad as well. So, this day I challenge you to do something crazy to reach this present generation. Do something that might have the old establishment question your motives or may even get you kicked out of your church, hell, just the other day, one of my young people performed at a club and yours truly went to support. I didn't necessarily care for the joint but it was important to me that the young person saw that I was willing to go where he was in order to reach him. That's all I'm saying, DO SOMETHING THAT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE TO THE OLD SCHOOL because today is a new day and the message doesn't change but the methods have to if we are going to occupy!

Now that's real talk.

Move Up and Out

2006-10-09T17:00:00.000-04:00

In this season, don't become discouraged with the way things look. Keep in mind that it (whatever IT is) may look bad before it starts to look good so know and be assured that it's not about what you see. You have to know that your situation is going to get better. And even further than that, you have to know that it's going to get better because you're going to make it so! You can't sit on the sidelines and just WAIT! We've been waiting long enough haven't you? What more do you need to get you from sitting on the sidelines to being an active participant in your offensive strike? I don't' know about you but I've had enough of feeling guilty about my hang ups! NO MORE!

I've got to move forward and be "on the way" to destiny because time isn't waiting for me! Life is continually moving forward whether I sit and lick my wounds or not. Life is going to continue to press me on all sides as the heat is constantly turned up in order to make me who I need to be, so I have to understand as I move forward that the race is not given to the swift or to the strong but the one who endures to the end! Nowhere in the bible does it say that the race is given to the perfect! Nowhere in the bible does it say that the race is given to the rich. NO, it's given to the one who endures, meaning the one who falls and gets back up and continues in the fight of faith!

It's a fixed fight so all you and I have to do is continue to get up everyday and move up and out to reach our destiny! No matter what comes continually be "on your way!" No matter what it looks like and the lies that are said against you, remember, "don't stop get it get it" because we have to remember that the fight is fixed and in the end we win! So, with that said, move up and out because your destiny awaits!

Real talk!

Keep Pushing

2006-10-05T05:30:00.000-04:00

There is a song that is out in the atmosphere that goes something like, "Don't stop! Get It Get It!" That's what I need to say for today! If your life is anything like mine then a lot of distractions are manifesting in ways beyond reason, but know that these are schemes and ways that the evil one would cause you to make some poor decisions that could cost you dearly. Do not be deceived by the tricks because that's just what they are! Be encouraged and know that if the heat has been turned up in your life, it's due to your growth and development in preparation for destiny!

When my sister was in the hospital delivering her son, Isaiah, the closer she got to delivery the more pain she would have to endure because her body was enlarging so that the baby could pass through her womb. It was a painful experience for her, but as well for me because as her brother I didn't like seeing her look the way she did. Nothing personal but she didn't look like the gorgeous sister that I was used to seeing. But she had good reason to look the way she did because her body was going through so much torment and travail in giving birth that, to her, it wasn't a time to try to "save face" and look cute. Her main objective was to get what was inside of her OUT!

The doctor was there to only instruct because at that point, she couldn't do anything to alleviate the process. It was what it was, so I say to you today, it is what it is! This is a very uncomfortable place in your life because you have to completely rely on the Holy Spirit and not on your own psyche. The natural mind cannot comprehend the spiritual things so your discernment has got to be activated for where you are going. Keep pushing because you are close! You are very close to giving birth to Destiny!

The joy of the entire process is that once you are done pushing, the joy of holding what was on the inside takes over and the pain that you had to endure seems so minimal! So, I'll say to you one more time...KEEP PUSHING, YOU ARE ALMOST THERE!

The Law of Recognition

2006-10-03T06:57:00.000-04:00

This book just fell into my life. Out of nowhere my spiritual father blessed me with this book written by Mike Murdock, titled, The Law of Recognition. Those of you who know me, know that I love reading. Reading keeps me alive especially during rough, desolate times and seasons in my life when I feel like giving up! So, needless to say, I was at a point where I was needing something, what, I couldn't actually put into words but I was hungry for something more. I go through these moments where I need a little more than the ordinary because of the mandate that is on my life to serve this present generation.

In the midst of a rather dry season in my life when I was hungering for the love that only a father could give, I was blessed with this book. I have begun reading it and it has peaked my interest already. It's interesting because the first thing that stuck out to me in this book was the statement that "everything you need in your life is already in your life merely awaiting your recognition of it." It's amazing to think, and I've been hearing it for a while now, that God has been waiting on me to SEE what He has already placed before me and in me instead of the other way around.

So many times I have been waiting on God to do "something" what, I'm not sure but to even read something like this even peaks my interest the more because with all the stuff I've been going through, I have to ask the question, WHY? Why are things like they are because if everything I need is already here, then do the trials and tribulations qualify as well? Are they ordained by God to manifest something inside me that has been lying dormant? Hmmm, I'm not sure but I will continue to read and find out.

The quest begins...

God's Got This!

2006-10-02T22:11:00.000-04:00

Sometimes in life you tend to get frustrated by what you see! I know I do but time and time again I'm reminded that it's not about what you see with the natural eye because we live in a natural world but we forget that there is a spiritual world as well. It seems like many of the ones that I'm real close to have just been falling by the wayside and there's nothing that I can do about it.

I received a call today about a friend of mine who's marriage is on the brink of divorce. Another is facing possible eviction from his home. Then I get a call about one of my kids possibly being pregnant (this is the fourth or fifth this year) so you know I'm like going crazy in my own mind. And then, to top matters off one of my kids just flat out lost his mind!

So, today I begin yet another consecration, or for those who may not understand what this is, the month of October is going to be a time where I set myself apart from many of the things that I customarily do on a regular basis. I'm going to be sacrificing my time for the Lord this month because with all that is going on, and I didn't even mention what I might be going through, but just in the superficial, I need to take some time alone with the Lord because in His word, in the book of Romans, the scripture that comes to mind in the eighth chapter is, "for I reckon that the suffering of this present time isn't worthy to be compared to the glory that shall be revealed..."

I still believe the word of God regardless of the way things look and I've got to stay fixated on that which God has already spoken! God's got everything under control and allows these things to take place to make me stronger. God said it in His word, I believe it so that settles all of the drama right here and there!

God's got this under control! I have to keep my eye on the big picture and not on what I see in the here and now! I have to believe that what's coming is greater than what has been and what is right now!

This is real talk!

Real Talk to the FATHER

2006-09-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

Good morning Lord,

There is so much that I would like to say, but first thank you for yet another beautiful day in life, with health and wholeness and mind, body and spirit. Thank you for your word which is life, and empowering me and us with your spirit. Thank you Father for restoration!

This week, today and heretofore, I will continue to submit my mind to God, that my thoughts be inter-dependent of His, that this mind will be in me which is also in Christ Jesus, that all vein imaginations be cast down, that I be of one mind and one spirit, that my thinking be orchestrated, dictated, and governed by His word, causing me to pursue what He established, that I will Will the will of the Father, that my thinking will be on things that a re true, things that are honest, things that are just, things that are pure, things that are lovely, things that are of good report; things that be of virtue, and of any praise. I declare war on the war in my mind, for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but are mighty through God for the pulling down of strongholds. Lord restore my mind to the original blueprint of it that you created, that I will manifest who I truly am, and was created to be, that Christ Jesus may glorify Himself through me, for it is He that worketh in me both to will and to do His good pleasure.

DIVORCE me from any and all spirits that have joined themselves to me by the flesh, and those that I have married myself to by the flesh so that I may be of one thought, one mind, one spirit, not a double thinker, with many minds, contrary to the word, mind and voice of God. God I renounce every and all spirits that are not of you that works in me from the root. Uproot all of those unfamiliar spirits that have layered themselves over and have muffled and stifled your spirit and your voice within me. I GIVE THEM UP AND GIVE YOU, HOLY SPIRIT, PERMISSION TO DIVIDE ASUNDER, making me one person, centered by the word of God.

I am not afraid anymore. I have decided to stand up within you, having on the whole armor of God, crowned by the helmet of salvation, covered by the breastplate of righteousness, girded about my waste girded with Truth, my feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace so that wherever I go, I am able to speak the word both in season and out of season, because the sword of the Spirit is in my hand. God I choose to now be an offended for your Kingdom. I seek to find where you are. My focus, is on YOU.

Gone But Never Forgotten

2006-09-26T07:40:00.000-04:00

Daddy,

I want to take this time to thank you for all of the love that you showed me while I was growing up in your home. How I wish I could have you hear with me, if but for just one day. Your words of encouragement that still, to this day, ring in my ears mean so much to me. At times I thought you were crazy for how stern you were with my sister and me but now, although you've been gone now for over seven years, I can see your heart and what you were doing.

I wish I could see the man that I have become since you've been gone. The years have been filled with much pain but with the pain, I've grown into a much stronger and wiser man through your death. Your voice, your touch, your strength, your affirmation and validation are sorely missed but NEVER forgotten.

Love always your one and only son.

Encounter -Part III (Special Edition)

2006-09-22T07:05:00.000-04:00

And for everyone who has been staying tuned in to the different descriptions that I've been using, everything all boils down to one thing, MY PERCEPTION! The way I see something determines my response, my attitude, outlook, and my aptitude. Most times in life we tend to hear things spoken over our lives but rarely do we ever take the WORD in dare to allow the word to grow so that it can be BIRTHED in our lives. Why is this? Why do we continue to go through the same drama, year after year, month after month, week after week, and day after day? Don't we expect more?

This is a question that we have to ask ourselves because this is where God meets us, at our level of expectation. If we don't expect to be transformed, we never will be transformed. If we don't expect a breakthrough to take place in certain areas of our lives, then they never will take place. What I'm saying isn't deep and doesn't take a rocket scientist to interpret but what we do is we continue to doubt that we can do better. Once we doubt, it's over and done. Once we open the door to let doubt and second guessing come into play we are now defeated before we begin because we have framed our world but what we have spoken. When we speak damnation we are sowing bad seeds and then have the nerve to wonder why we are in the same place year after year.

You still don't understand? Okay, let's go back to the movie that I discussed yesterday, The Matrix. In the movie, Neo second guessed himself for the entire movie and had to continue to go to everyone else for their opinions. Throughout the entire movie he was "on the run" he couldn't rest because SOMETHING was after him. The SOMETHING that was after him knew more about him than he did. DID YOU GET THAT? THE THING THAT HE WAS FEARING THAT HAD HIM ON THE RUN KNEW MORE ABOUT HIM THAN HE DID. (HMMMM???) Think about that for a moment. How many times in life have we run from the very thing that could take us to the dimension that we have desired to get to? How many times have we been afraid of the very thing that was pre-ordained to take us to the "next level?"

Well, Neo continued to run and be afraid until something awakened on the inside that was, I believe, sick and tired of being sick and tired. In other words, enough was enough. Neo, as I explained yesterday, didn't put forth any effort once he woke up and walked in who he was.

My question for you to ponder is, how long will you fear the very thing that is afraid of you? How long will you continue to go in circles because you are worried about the outcome of the situation? In some ways, it can't get any worse than it already is, right? So why not just face that THING that you've been afraid of so that you can move on and BE who God ordained you to be?

This is yet, another way to look at what THE ENCOUNTER was all about. The bottom line is you can only run from yourself so long before you hit that brick wall within that forces you to look at yourself naked and exposed, just you, yourself, and God. Once this takes place, you will see, just like Neo did that the answer to the equation of the MATRIX lied within his mind. In other words, for many of you the only thing standing in the way of You walking in your destiny is YOU. Remove yourself from the equation like Neo and let things be, it's much easier that way.

Now that's real talk!

The Encounter (Part II)

2006-09-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Okay, here's another one for you! For those of you who have emailed me and told me that you feel as if I left you hanging because I stopped blogging the other day. Well, let me see if this is a better way to explain what happened within me!

If you haven't seen the first Matrix movie, I would STRONGLY suggest or urge you to get it from Blockbuster so that you can see it for yourself. But in the movie, Neo, the main character, was on a search to discover the answer and little did he know that the answered lied within himself. Neo was told by someone that he had the answer but he didn't believe it! He went throughout the entire movie going from one person to another asking people who had the answer and when he finally got knocked down from the enemy, he stood up within himself and woke up! He finally realized that He had the answer!

What was chasing Neo throughout the entire movie now became the chased! IN other words, the hunter became the hunted because Neo had been running the entire movie until he realized that he had the answer. When Neo woke up to who he was he in turn, began chasing the problem that had him on the run! He turned and told the problem to "bring it on" and he went on to conquer what had been conquering him with a sweat-less victory!

That's what happened to me at this ENCOUNTER in the mountains of North Carolina. Okay? Is this a better way of explaining so you all can understand the metamorphosis that I just came through?

Let me know...I can keep talking because you all know, I can't be shut up! I give it to you, RAW and unfiltered!

Now that's real talk!

THE ENCOUNTER

2006-09-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

In life there are defining moments that become suspended in time. Time appears to stop as transformation takes place and then, all of a sudden, you go back to a state of normalcy, if you can ever remember what "normal" was. Well, let me get right to it, I witnessed a miracle this weekend, no, maybe it would be better if I called it a revolution but then, I could say that it was a cataclysmic "take over!" I know you are probably saying to yourself, "what is he talking about?" What I'm talking about is THE ENCOUNTER!

When I first heard about this event, the only reason I agreed to attend was because one of my mentees had been insisting that I travel with him for the past two years. The reason why he was so insistent was because his father had attended this "retreat" and from that one retreat, his father's life has never been the same! So, to avoid having to keep being asked, I agreed this summer to attend but truly didn't know what to expect.

To hear my mentee talk about his father and how much his father had changed truly did cause me to question just what actually takes place at this event so as the time approached, I became very interested in seeing just what takes place at this thing called THE ENCOUNTER. Honestly, I didn't think that I would be able to find the time to attend this because of the distance and the travel. I don't like driving distances longer than four hours, so in a way I didn't think that I'd ever be able to attend. But, as fate would have it, my schedule made time by canceling other engagements because there was something deep inside that needed to experience this event for myself!

THE ENCOUNTER was nothing like I thought it would be. I'm used to attending conferences so I went with the mindset of being "preached" too, but that didn't happen. When I say ENCOUNTER, that's exactly what it was, an ENCOUNTER with God! Most people search their entire life looking for a face-to-face with God, the Father, and I experienced it this past weekend. I won't graphically depict what actually took place but what I will say is MY LIFE WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN!

Stay tuned for more Real Talk about THE ENCOUNTER!

To The Mountain Top

2006-09-18T21:55:00.000-04:00

Please excuse the tardiness of this blog! I spent the day traveling back from Greensboro, North Carolina. I attended a function this week that was life changing. I'll say more about it probably tomorrow, but I didn't want the day to end with me not keeping with my regularly scheduled time of sharing with you, the reader!

In life, there are times when you must do things that are normally against the grain in order to get a different result. And that's where I was before this weekend. I think I was going through the motions of life, but yet considered myself still "on post." Meaning, I was still taking care of business in the areas where I have responsibility but I was ignoring myself in the process.

I'll also explain more about this in tomorrow's blog, but for now I'm going to get some MUCH NEEDED rest, more on the "Mountain Top" tomorrow!

The Road Ahead

2006-09-14T06:15:00.000-04:00

Everything you do MUST be done in the spirit of excellence. The world is watching and history is being made with every stroke of your pen and every stride you take when you walk. The question that should be pondered or contemplated as you go throughout the remainder of this week is, "What TYPE of history are you making?"

This is an interesting question because it causes us to take a serious, in-depth look into our actions. The saying goes, "every action has an equal and opposite reaction." Well, that being the case, understand that everything you do affects not only your life but the lives of countless others, many whom you may never meet. Remember this as you make decisions for YOURSELF, and realize that you must broaden your horizons and see the bigger picture of life. Decisions have to be made everyday and throughout life many people pay the price for the actions we take. Think about that the next time you are faced with the daunting task of deciding someone's fate. This is just something that I would like for you to think about.

The question that is forced upon you is, "Is it really this serious?" Do our actions really have an indirect affect on others? Think about and again, let me stress the importance of operating at a spirit of excellence in everything we say and do. This is crucial in order to lay hold of the destiny that lies ahead. Our children deserve much better than what we were given, am I right? Well, and if I am correct, as I know I am, then it's important that we take an assessment of our lives up until now and prepare ourselves for the road ahead!

The road ahead is filled with the unknown, however, will be overtaken by those who prepare today for their tomorrow. By doing this, you not only save yourself, but you give the next generation something to "shoot" for.

Now that's real talk!

Keep Your Mind Right

2006-09-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

When you make the first step, sometimes that's all you need to do to get the "ball" rollin' as far as destiny is concerned! Understand one thing, obstacles are ordained to come AT you to cause you to make your declaration strong! Tribulations are set to manifest to drive you to a deeper knowledge of who you are! Don't be alarmed, if you made the first step, don't grow weary and give up, let it "be what it be." Go through the motions and learn all you can during this time of your life, if you remain steadfast and immovable, you will see the handiwork of God!

Your attitude is important during this stage because your attitude will, in fact, determine your altitude in how you are able to ascend to new heights within your mind. Your mind is key and that's why it's important to stay focused on the bigger picture. Keep your focus and eyesight on the prize, at hand! This is your life, this is your destiny, don't allow just any and everybody to attach themselves to you. This could very well lead to your downfall because the wrong person will suck the LYFE out of you. Please don't allow this to take place.

Watch your crowd, watch your conversation, and seek WISE counsel when it comes to the serious decisions that you have to make in the coming days! Your decisions will make or break you which is why you have to remain focused even in the midst of everything you're facing. TIME WAITS FOR NO ONE so you will have to learn how to be multi-tasked to accomplish everything you need to at this stage of your life. Throughout this entire feat, I encourage you to keep your mind right and watch God manifest and take you to heights yet to be reached. Keep your mind right!

Now that's real talk!

9-1-1

2006-09-11T07:30:00.006-04:00

We are still on high alert, even after five years but there is a question that I've been asking myself so I'll ask you, the reader, as well. Just how safe are we today after all the money that has been spent on national security and the millions that have been sent overseas to fund the war, how secure are we as a nation?

It kind of puts things into perspective to see that on the home front, just a year ago, there were states that were devastated by Hurricane Katrina and we, as a government, couldn't even handle that crisis so what makes us think that after five years, we'd have everything together?

I've learned one thing throughout these past ordeals and that is to NOT PUT MY CONFIDENCE IN MAN! On the road to destiny, we cannot allow others to get us off focus. Many people still haven't gotten their lives back in "sync" since 911 and Hurricane Katrina didn't do anything but further heighten the frustration with ourselves.

Stay focused on YOU being the best YOU that YOU can be regardless of the situations that take place in your life. Five years later you should be stronger than ever! Ready to handle whatever may come, determined to persevere no matter what, and dedicated to not only make it to your destination, but bring someone else along for the ride. That's where the generational transfer takes place!

Now on this 911, that's real talk!

Just Another Day

2006-09-07T07:55:00.000-04:00

Life brings many ups and downs and throughout this journey we have to remember that God said that we are more than conquerors! The Apostle, Paul left it on record in the new testament time and time again. He would always write to encourage the Gentiles that no matter how sour the situation looked, no matter how troubling it appeared, no matter what the outcome looked like, Paul chose to see the good instead of the bad!

Take your cue from Paul today and remember to look at your situation from a different perspective. Death and Life are in the power of the tongue so remember that we frame our world by the words we speak. Many of us have cursed ourselves and everything that we touch because we are so negative and the negativity breeds contempt, so on and so forth. This leads to many of the hurdles and obstacles that have manifested in front of you. It's amazing because sometimes we blame the devil on our situation when it's really us, oftentimes its the man in the mirror who has caused the road to get rocky, not the devil, not your enemy, not your family and not even your spouse or children. YOU!

Let that sink in today and remember, before you open your mouth, decide within yourself that you are going to speak words of life and be uplifting to others. Make a decision to change the atmosphere when you walk in a room. A thought to ask yourself for your personal provocation, "Does the conversation change when you walk in a room? If so, is it for the good or the bad?" This is a question to cause you to think because we have to be mindful of our authority as children of God. God made us the head and not the tail, He said we were to operate ABOVE and not beneath. He said that before we were formed in the womb, HE knew us, ordained us and sanctified us so my question to you is, "why are you tripping?"

It's just another day, go through it and learn from it, glean from it, mature and become who God ordained you to be. If not today, when?

Now this is real talk...

Make That Change

2006-09-05T07:35:00.000-04:00

This is a new day and it's time not to just talk about it, but to act like it. In the words of the youth of America, "don't talk about it-be about it!" Some of you may be asking, "what does this entail?" In moving in a new dimension, you have to first understand that sometimes in a new terrain or hemisphere, what was accepted previously may not be appropriate any longer. This could be a number of things. For instance, some of you may need to look at your eating habits, others of you may need to look at your choice of friends. It could be any number of things that need to be looked at as you prepare to move forward so get too it so that you don't delay your promise from manifesting itself!

Me, personally, I had to take a look at my health and realize that my eating habits had to change. I don't know about you but I eat healthy and work out for a little while and then I tend to get a little too comfortable because of my results and I allow myself to get sluggish and before I know it, I'm back to where I was in the beginning. And, here I am again! I'm right back where I started because I got tired and weary late last year. So now it's important that I remember how I was able to be drawn back into a poor diet so that I'm prepared for this new dimension that God has ordained.

I realized not too long ago that I was the one who was standing in the way of my breakthrough. So, today it's time for me to delete myself from the equation in the area of my physical body. So many people need to do the same thing. We don't realize how we are eating ourselves to death until it's too late! Go get a check-up and stop walking down the path of destruction. As good as it looks, everything that looks good isn't necessarily good for you! Realize it, accept it and make the necessary life style changes that need to be made in order for you to be complete and whole!

Otherwise you may not have an opportunity to enjoy that thing that you have been waiting on God to manifest in your life. Today's a good day to make that change.

Now this is real talk!

Thank You

2006-09-04T07:57:00.000-04:00

At at time when so much is going on around the world, take a moment and just thank the Almighty for your health, your strength and your sound mind! Sometimes we take for granted the little things of life but remembering what took place in New Orleans just one year ago causes us to realize and understand that whatever the case is in our individual lives, things could be so much worse. This is a simple realization but a realization that very few of us can grasp because so many of us didn't have to live through the ordeal. Our only "take" on the situation has been from pictures and the media, but to have lived the experience of having lost everything including some family and friends is not only earth shattering but provokes an assessment whereby one has to reevaluate priorities!

I thank God for where I am today and for family and friends! I stand because there are many who laid a foundation for which I am able to launch from, however, I don't forget the shoulders upon which I stand. The lives who gave their own blood and sacrifice so that I could have the opportunities afforded to me at this stage in my life. I'm here because of the stability that my parents gave me in their pursuit to ensure that my sister and I attained higher education and have used our collegiate experiences to gravitate towards the things that drive the passion the burns within us.

I didn't make it here on my own and I say THANK YOU to everyone who has played a part in my life, but not just my life but for those who have given towards the struggle for opportunity. Those who weren't satisfied with the way things were but looked forward to a brighter day for those who were coming behind. THANK YOU!

In spite of everything that has taken place in our lives and in the history of this country, we couldn't be where we were if were not for the many faces that will go into the history books as the unknown soldiers who fought for a better tomorrow! Again, I say thank you!

Now that's real lyfe talk!

Move! Get Out The Way!

2006-08-31T08:15:00.000-04:00

Reach up to your destiny! I've heard this statement before and it resounds ever so loudly in my mind as we are on the verge of a new terrain! For those who dare to break the boundaries of the impossible, the sky is the limits! I discovered something in the process of completing my first novel a few weeks ago. Are you ready to find out what I discovered? Pay close attention because it's real deep! "I was the one that was holding up the project, no one else!"

It's amazing to discover that it was me and no one else that was to blame for the manuscript being in the same place that it had been in. I had allowed insecurity and intimidation to grab hold of me and by the time those emotions took over, fear was right there holding me hostage. I didn't think it was good enough, I had excuse after excuse for why I couldn't take things to the next level, when finally I "came to myself" and realized that I've read some books that were full of crap and the author had published over five books, so what was I waiting on?

When that reality set in I, in the words of our youth, "got on my grind" and I found an editor who fit with my aims and ideals. We emailed back and forth and then it was TIME to "move and get out the way!" As a matter of fact, the editor just emailed me and told me to let her do what she does and not to worry! (easier said than done) But this is a good test because I had to learn that I couldn't do projects such as this on my own. I had to find skilled people who were professional and who had business savvy!

Oftentimes when we are proceeding into a project like this we'd prefer family and friends to go with us for the ride, but sometimes our family can serve as our detriment and can lead to our premature death! So beware and pray before asking certain close friends to join you for the journey! MOVE yourself aside and let the professionals do what it is they do! If I had never come to this realization, I'd still be trying to do everything myself and I'd probably get frustrated, as I've done on three or four previous projects, and throw in the towel. WELL, NO MORE!

I've removed myself from the equation and I challenge you; NO, I dare you to do the same! Watch God operate when you finally hand in your resignation!

Now this is real talk!

A Moment in Time

2006-08-29T07:30:00.000-04:00

There comes moments in time where you are presented with opportunities that come around only once. What do you do? Do you stay in the familiar terrain and just watch others walk into their destinies? Or do you take the plunge and risk and step out and watch the Almighty go to work? Many people are living frustrated lives because they allowed fear to hold them hostage and render them ineffective to LIVE to their fullest potential!

Moments in time are given so that you can take the natural and turn it into the supernatural. Moments in time are presented to give you a voice that you might not otherwise have except for the moment that came into being! Moments are either defined or undefined but the choice is yours. What will you do?

In the book of Revelations, the Almighty God says that He is the God that opens doors that no man can shut and shuts doors that no man can open. My question to you this day is this, "will you go through the door that is opened for this MOMENT IN TIME or will you allow your fear or what other people think hold you back? If I were you I'd forget about what other people had to say about the decisions you had to make because at the end of the day, it's your life to live!

Now that's real talk! This is your moment, what will you do with it?

Divine Interruptions

2006-08-28T07:05:00.000-04:00

Divine interruptions often come at the most inconvenient times in your life. When you prayed for God to intervene it was as if He was on a "break" of some sorts. The time when you think you needed God the most, it appeared as if you were forsaken because you felt as if He was nowhere around. I understand the feelings that have run through your mind regarding God's answer to your dilemma however, I want to encourage you today to Hold on because GOD is closer than you think!

You may be like me, for years I felt as if I was cursed because of the loneliness that I had to endure. I felt as if I was purposefully put on "front" street on many occasions because of things that had taken place in my life years before which caused me to be withdrawn and suffer with low self-esteem. Others of you may have felt just the opposite, whereas I didn't want attention period, many feel like without attention, they're nothing! They thrive on being the class clown and without them the party is never hype! I don't know where you find yourself on this journey but receive today a fresh word from God that the trials and tribulations that you've endured were divinely orchestrated for His purposes being manifested in your life.

You may ask, "what do you mean?" Thanks for asking! In life, we tend to allow ourselves to be victimized over the slightest issues and without having anywhere to turn we tend to remain in the spiraled web that has kept us bound due to our inability to break free and realize that we deserve and are worthy of better! Too many times we've cursed ourselves by allowing others to speak damnation over our lives and without rebuking the words, we tend to receive them and without even knowing it, we frame our world around the words spoken.

Well, enough is enough and the lines of demarcation have been drawn this day! God has interrupted time in order to give each of us a fresh word! A new wind is blowing and in order for you to receive this new wind, you must lay aside yesterday! Yesterday will look the same but your outlook and perspective will be changed forever! Think it not strange that you have been tried in the fire because the fire came to get all of the impurities out so that you could come forth as pure gold!

Divine interruptions come from the Almighty, by interruptions I mean that moments that break into time and change the laws of time are only from God! God, who lives in eternity periodically steps into time on behalf of his beloved! The scripture of meditation for this week is from Deuteronomy 20:1-4 (KJV)

When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more (numerous) than thou, be not afraid of them: for the Lord thy God is with thee, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. And it shall be, when ye are come nigh unto the battle, that the priest shall approach and speak unto the people, And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; For the Lord your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you!

Now this is real talk!

Defining Moments of Life

2006-08-24T08:15:00.000-04:00

Think about all that has taken place over the course of your life and if you're like me, you'll see that things haven't been as bad as they seemed. It could have been worse, right? If you take a moment you'll see that there is truth to the statement because the fact remains that you're still breathing, aren't you? We tend to more often than not spend most of our days complaining about what isn't rather than appreciating what IS! How do you spend the days of your life? Do you spend the day holding on to yesterday? Do you waste valuable time looking at what happened to you last year or even ten years ago? Or do you use the past to help you strategically position yourself for the future?

In the movie, Forest Gump, there was a statement made that goes like this, "Life is like a box of chocolates..." I use this statement because in actuality, this is what life is about, taking risks! You don't know what you're going to get under the chocolate until you take that BITE! Things in your life could be worse, point well taken, however what are you going to do to take the worse and make it good? Remember these words, IF IT'S GOING TO BE, IT'S UP TO ME!

You can spend your days wallowing about what isn't or you can take whatever "hand" your dealt and play the hell out of it! Life is made of defining moments where we are faced with life and death situations where we have to make a decision that will make or break us! Be thankful for the trials and tribulations because this is what serves as the catalyst to make us stronger than ever!

Now that's real talk!

When the Levees Broke

2006-08-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

This is a must see---I couldn't help but sit in front of my television for the entire time this documentary was last night! For those of you who didn't watch it, this is a MUST! Words can't even describe the up-close and personal accounts of what actually happened during the days that government stood idle and apparently did nothing!

The scripture tells us to not put our confidence in men. Well, let's just say that those words ring ever so true while viewing the degradation that took place in the city of New Orleans last year during Hurricane Katrina when the levees broke. This isn't a slant towards the democrats or republicans because in the final analysis when disaster takes place we are people. We are all members of the human race and we have a responsibility to remember what actually took place!

I applaud Spike Lee for the vivid real life footage that was attained that might have gone unsaid had he not dared to defy belief! I say defy belief because there are many things that I saw last night that I probably would have second guessed had I not seen it with my own eyes. However, I thank him because he gave the "average Joe" a voice and he went where very few cameras dared to go, into the heart of the storm.

I always say from time to time to be grateful for things as they are because it could be worse. Anyone who actually takes time to view this documentary can't help but say "thank you Lord" because we are a blessed people! We are blessed to be alive and be in good health and strength. So the next time you want to complain about your home situation, stop and be grateful that you at least have a home. The next time you want to complain about your family, stop and be thankful because for the most part, you probably know where all of your family members are located!

This documentary is scheduled to conclude tonight at 9pm on HBO. You don't want to miss this, if you can stomach reality! This is real life coming at you so be ready!

Now this is real talk!

Still Here

2006-08-21T04:30:00.000-04:00

In the beginning of a new week, if you're still having some issues with your past, let me share with you the fact that YOU'RE STILL HERE! Regardless of the many obstacles that you've endured, the fact remains that you're still breathing! If you can't find anything else to be grateful for, be grateful for LIFE! Be thankful that things aren't worse because you do know that things could be worse.

Sometimes we often get caught up on what's not happening and what we want to happen when we can stand to be thankful and give God praise for things being where they are! Can you feel me today? I understand that for many of you who will read this that things aren't normal right now and there are situations that seem to be insurmountable. In other words, things are TIGHT! But rejoice in the fact that you can still breathe! The bible says let everything that has breath praise the Lord! So, even though it's not what you want, stop and tell the Lord "thank You!"

Lastly, don't focus on what is NOW, but rather turn your attention to what's to come because I believe with all my heart that if God wanted you dead, you'd be dead! However, He didn't allow the accident, the sickness, the divorce, the bullet, the "pink slip" etc...He didn't allow any of that to take you out so He obviously has you in mind for something that is on the way; AND WHAT'S COMING IS BETTER AND GREATER THAN WHAT'S BEEN! Receive that this day and rejoice because you're still here! In spite of everything, you're still here!

Now this is Real LYFE talk!

Make It Happen---Again

2006-08-17T07:30:00.000-04:00

I know I said something about this not too long ago, but DO NOT BE AFRAID TO GO AFTER YOUR DREAMS! You've waited your entire life for this moment so don't let it pass you by! It's strange but we often tend to shy away from what we feel in our spirit when the going gets rough and the going gets tough, but nevertheless, be encouraged.

I'm speaking from personal experience this very moment because I too have been bombarded, as of late, with issues, concerns, and just plain out stupid stuff that doesn't matter. This is a trick of the enemy to get you to forsake your destiny so please, by all means, don't believe the hype. When it's all said and done, that's all it really is, hype with no substantive power to hold you hostage, so don't give in to your emotions and the way things may appear to be. Appearances can be deceiving and so can your feelings. At this stage of your journey, you're too close to go by what you see, so just know that your time is now!

You have the potential to make it happen---again and again and again! The atmosphere is fertile and ripe for the miraculous to take place. There is no time greater than now for your dreams to come true so why not? Why would you think that it can't happen? Why would you think that you're not worthy to walk into what was promised to you a long time ago? Why would you think that? Don't give room to the enemy because his objective is to steal, kill, and destroy you and he does so by getting you to believe that destiny is taking place for everybody except you!

You have everything you need to Make It Happen---Again! So, what are you waiting for? Kick fear and worry to the curb and walk into your season because the time is NOW!

Now that's real talk!

DEADLINES

2006-08-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

For the past few weeks, I've been working non-stop on a few different projects. It's been rather hectic but what has kept me going is the "bigger" picture that I see. Down the road, because I've maintained my focus, even though it's been tough on some days, it's going to all work out for my good! That's how I see it and that's important because many nights I end up going to bed in tears because sometimes I feel as if my labor is in vain. Oftentimes, it's lonely doing what I do but I'm encouraged to NOT GIVE UP!

Yes, there are deadlines that I'm working against that I must keep, I can't push them back because every delay costs me dollars and cents, if you feel me. Every time I push a deadline back I'm holding up destiny and, DESTINY, can wait no longer! Many of you are already aware that I'm working on publishing my first novel. It's been a long time coming and YES, I'm constantly beating myself up about not being prepared or some other lame excuse, so I'm writing to myself today more than anyone else.

Deadlines are important and if we are attentive, faithful, and consistent, the big PAYOFF is down the road. Deadlines come and deadlines go, however, after it's all said and done, what will be the pay-out or pay-off for holding fast to your deadline? If you don't follow through, you may never ever walk in your divine destiny, right? Who knows? Work your project and get it done in a timely fashion so that the deadline isn't your breaking point but serves as a catalyst for your MAKING!

Now that's real talk!

All for One and One for All

2006-08-14T20:56:00.000-04:00

A mouse looked through the crack in the wall to see the farmer and his wife open a package. "What food might this contain?" The mouse wondered - he was devastated to discover it was a mousetrap. Retreating to the farmyard, the mouse proclaimed the warning. "There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!" The chicken clucked and scratched, raised her head and said, "Mr. Mouse, I can tell this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to me. I cannot be bothered by it."

The mouse turned to the pig and told him, "There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!" The pig sympathized, but said, "I am so very sorry, Mr. Mouse, but there is nothing I can do about it but pray. Be assured you are in my prayers."

The mouse turned to the cow and said, "There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!" The cow said, "Wow, Mr. Mouse. I'm sorry for you, but it's no skin off my nose."

So, the mouse returned to the house, head down and dejected, to face the farmer's mousetrap alone. That very night a sound was heard throughout the house -- like the sound of a mousetrap catching its prey. The farmer's wife rushed to see what was caught. In the darkness, she did not see it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught. The snake bit the farmer's wife. The farmer rushed her to the hospital, and she returned home with a fever. Everyone knows you treat a fever with fresh chicken soup, so the farmer took his hatchet to the farmyard for the soup's main ingredient.

But his wife's sickness continued, so friends and neighbors came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig. The farmer's wife did not get well; she died. So many people came for her funeral; the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide enough meat for all of them. The mouse looked upon it all from his crack in the wall with great sadness.

So, the next time you hear someone is facing a problem and think it doesn't concern you, remember -- when one of us is threatened, we are all at risk.

We are all involved in this journey called life. We must keep an eye out for one another and make an extra effort to encourage one another

Author Unknown

Where's the REAL Influence?

2006-08-10T07:30:00.000-04:00

Where is the Kingdom Agenda's influence? I don't know but it's a question that I've been pondering for a while. Every time I see reports such as the one listed below, I am forced to come to terms with the apparent realization that "church," as we know it, has to transition from a dead state to that of a "living perpendicular!"

By "living perpendicular" I am saying that it's important for the church to find a way to intersect and infiltrate this industry that has our control and influence over our children. To continue with the status quo is equivalent to playing a game of "double jeopardy." Once you've been acquitted, you cannot stand trial for the same thing "CRIME" in the same courtroom. So, what do we do?

The information listed below was attained from the EUR web magazine in the August 9th edition; Take a look at who has the REAL influence over our youth!

Here are the full Top 10 richest people in Hip-Hop:
1. P. Diddy, $346 Million
2. Jay-Z, $340 Million
3. Russell Simmons, $325 Million
4. Damon Dash, $200 Million
5. Neptunes, $155 Million
6. Dr. Dre, $150 Million
7. Ice Cube, $145 Million
8. Eminem, $110 Million
9. 50 Cent, $100 Million
10. Nelly, $60 Million
10. (Tie) Jermaine Dupri, $60 Million

I'll ask the question for you to ponder once again, "Who has the real influence over YOUR children?" In order for you to answer this, you have to think for a moment before you utter forth a vague generality and blame the media. It's not the media's fault; the media isn't the one with the money buying the CD's are they? I know I do purchase these CD's because as America's Youth Pastor, I feel it necessary and of vital importance to understand the lyrics. But again, my question to you is, who has the REAL influence? You or one of the gentlemen from the "top 10?"

Now this is real talk!

Stepping Out

2006-08-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

Moving out into new territory is not easy. It requires you to make up your mind that you are not going to stay where you are. You are going to prepare yourself for the next place, come what may. It also means that you have to open yourself up to a new paradigm because the old ways that sustained you may not necessarily be able to carry you in the new terrain you are headed too.

For me, the past few months have been quite hectic because I've been making a lot of changes in my life. I'm tired of the way things have been going and have made a decision to close some doors and cut off some people who have not been productive in my life. It's time to move forward in life so that those who are connected to me can get where they need to get. If I refuse to move forward because I remain fearful of the unknown, then how will I ever be able to reap any rewards?

I've contemplated this decision for the past few days and weeks and have come to the conclusion that most people never ever step out into the destiny that God has predestined for them often due to fear and due to insecurity. It's amazing that most people would rather stay on the shores of life rather than get their feet wet in the deep parts of their destiny. It's crazy and sad at the same time because everything we do affects the next three to four generations. By one persons decision to NOT step out, imagine the lives that could be hanging in the balance! **Just something to think about.

Take the "plunge" and step out into the new. Step out and understand that it's not just about you but it's about the lives of those yet to be born.

Now that's real talk!

I Don't Know What To Say, I think?

2006-08-07T07:55:00.000-04:00

On a day like today, when everything seems to be going okay, I have nothing to say! I guess it's the calm before the storm that has me hesitating. I'm trying to think real hard but nothing comes to mind. I've been working constantly, around the clock, on my first book that is going to be published this fall and it's taking everything I have. I have never been so confident about something like this before, but on this project, I'm really pulling out all the stops!

Now, after thinking about it for a moment, if I could say anything I'll say this: Look out for my new book coming out soon, real real soon! It's been a long time coming and for all of you who have been reading my blog, thank you! Over the past few years, I've written over four or five books without even realizing that I wrote them but now I've come to the place where it's time to take things to the next level.

Remember, I'm not going to continue to talk the talk without walking the walk, so that's where I am now. That's why the blogs have been shorter and I've been allowing others to showcase their talent. As I constantly pour out from my spirit and bring words to life, I have to be careful and NOT overkill and it's difficult because I don't know how to half do anything. When I commit to something I am "ALL IN." I'm not like other people, if I say I'm going to do something, that's my word!

And for those of you who remember, I wrote about it a few weeks ago when I was talking about a NAME. My name is all I have and I cannot allow anyone to mess that up! So, I'm closing now so after all that talk that I didn't have anything to say, I guess I really did but I didn't know it until I just started giving you my heart!

Take care and keep me in prayer, I want this to be the best so if I have to burn the midnight oil, you, my readers, are well worth it!

Now that's real talk!

A Mere Thought for Today

2006-08-03T07:10:00.000-04:00

The Sage Prays

Thank you father
For what you have done
And who you are
For what you have given
And what you are in me
May my thoughts be of purpose
May my actions be honorable
May my heart glow with the essence of love
I focus on the truth in all things
So that we may be one at all times
Use me here in service
So your way can be seen in this place
I close my eyes and let you guide me
For with you I am everything
Without you I am nothing.

Written by Che The Unseen
Author of
Living Tao
A Guide to Remembering

The Breaking of Day

2006-08-01T11:53:00.000-04:00

The saying goes, "the darkest hour is just before the day." And just like the saying so are the facts of life. Some of the most trying times in life are just before the "breaking" of day, meaning, it gets real tight right before things begin to turn around and you start to see results from what you've been laboring with. This is where a lot of us are today on this journey called LYFE.

Please understand that trials are destined to come for as long as we have breath in our body, so we have to get over it. It's a done deal, as far as that is concerned. It's a guarantee that we'll endure trials and temptations so we can't let issues get in the way of the bigger picture of life. You have to remember that you have a destiny and that you were promised success and a future. In the word of God you have an anchor so stay steadfast and immovable when all the storms of life seem to weigh you down.

Rest in knowing that the trial is making you, NOT breaking you! Rest also in knowing that after it's all said and done, you'll look back and see that you are stronger than you were before you encountered whatever obstacle you just overcame. So be encouraged and know that the time is approaching soon and very soon where you will see the breaking of day!

Now that's real talk!

Back By Popular Demand

2006-07-31T07:52:00.000-04:00

I've received a number of emails and voice mails as to when I was returning from vacation and for all of you who were wondering...I'M BACK! Again, the past few days away were very much needed. These days were used to recollect, remember, recompense, and reflect on those who have gone before me. It's always good to pay respects to whom respect is due and that is exactly what I was away doing last week.

For those of you who may not understand, my fraternity, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Turned 100 years old and our national convention was held in our nation's capitol, Washington, D.C. It was a very memorable event, one that brought the likes of big names, such as Cornell West, Ambassador Andrew Young, Kevin Powell, Louis Gossett Jr., retired Senator Edward Brooke, and U.S. Representatives, Bobby Scott and Danny Davis.

As over 3,000 Alphas converged from all directions we were faced with serious questions that we had to answer as we prepare to forge forward into the 21st Century. Everything that was good in 1906 isn't necessarily going to be good for 2006. I say that because the last sentence can be used for everybody in their individual lives. Some of the things that we've done in the past may need to be done away with as we attempt to prepare ourselves to lead today in order to get to a greater tomorrow.

I'm ready for the challenges that lie ahead, whatever they may be. What I do know, above anything else, I CAN'T CONTINUE TO STAY WHERE I AM. I have to take my "game" to the next dimension because I know that I didn't go through a lot of the hell that I've been through just to simply stay on the sidelines. What about you? Are you content with the status quo or do you want more? I'm not satisfied with mediocrity and you shouldn't either.

I'm back by popular demand and I say this, not particularly because of the number of you who took the time to call and email me, but I'm saying this because I have made a decision to show up to TODAY! Back by popular demand is more about me and my personal provocation, than it is about responding to others expectations. I'm back because I know that I've been called for greatness, but wait a minute, I'm not alone because you've been called for greatness too, if you believe it! Don't allow your current situations to dictate your actions, don't hold preconceived ideas and allow your perception to cause you to miss out on the manifold wisdom that is ahead on the journey of LYFE.

Time waits for no one so I'm up for the challenge to meet tomorrow "head on," are you?

Now that's real talk!

Thoughts from Che The Unseen

2006-07-27T08:06:00.000-04:00

DO NOT

Do not seek, become
Do not know, live
Do not listen, learn
Do not think, be
Do not feel, embrace
Do not touch, feel
Do not lust, love
Do not love, serve
Do not work, practice
Do not practice, devote
Do not speak, silence
Do not see, create
Do not remember, focus
Do not learn, remember
Do not destroy, build
Do not build, destroy
Does anyone know what to do?
Or what not to do
No one but YOU

Written by Che The Unseen
Author of
Living Tao
A Guide to Remembering

Thoughts from Che The Unseen

2006-07-25T07:30:00.000-04:00

HOLD ON

Focus on your goal
Refuse to stop
Say to your self
I will not go gently into that good night
I must stand
Or I will fall for anything
Just hold on
To the tail of the wind
To the feeling of love
To the hem of his garment
To the passion that drives you
Never let go
Because what are are holding on to
Is the essence of self

Written by Che The Unseen
Author of
Living Tao
A Guide to Remembering

Thoughts from Che The Unseen

2006-07-24T06:45:00.000-04:00

TRUTH

Freedom to be
Freedom to think
Freedom to love
And to live
Truth is more than not lying
It is the essence of life
All things that are true
You cannot control
It is truth that the wind blows
It is truth that the sun shines
It is truth that the soul is unseen
But despite the truth we continue to lie
I am not talking about lying to someone else
But lying to yourself
About who you are
And you are truth

Written by Che The Unseen
Taken from
Living Tao
A Guide to Remembering

Acquiring The Initiative Of A Self-Starter

2006-07-20T05:15:00.000-04:00

Dear God, "He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand, but the hand of the diligent maketh rich," (Proverbs 10:4). Slothfulness is of disgrace to you, but he that exerts exuberance and initiative provides good fruit in his season. For; "wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labor shall increase," (Proverbs 13:11)

Lord, I provoke your divinity and your sovereignty to demolish my humanity. Purify me of all unrighteousness, and restore in me a pure heart and a contrite spirit. Instill in me the fused wise characteristics of ants, conies, locusts and spiders. Though the ants are small in stature, they are mighty. They implore your initiative and express wisdom in their proactive mission to prepare for anticipated circumstances. The conies are meager, but establish their dwellings on the durable surfaces of rocks. The locusts do not have an appointed head, yet they unite and effectively function as a team. The spider grips with her hands and migrates to high places, (Proverbs 30:25-28).

Collectively, the animals and insects enlisted represent frailty with great valor. The frailties represented are symbolic of the humility in which we embrace you. We must be responsibly assertive, consistent and wise in the nurturing and development of our relationship with you on a solid foundation. As we feast in the Word and commune in prayer, you will unite us in oneness with your spirit, and as a body we will be uplifted.

In Jesus' precious name I pray.
Thank God, Amen.

Taken from the book,
Expressions From a Pure Heart,
by Keisha Glover

The Portrait of a Man

2006-07-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
He begins his morning with a God given path
Attentive to the words of his parents past
A child taking steps to becoming what he is to be
A man fulfilling his purpose and destiny

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
A son of thunder destined to posses the land
Seeing wisdom, knowledge and how to understand
His neck is iced out with mercy and truth
Refusing to give in to the voice of immorality
He saves his most precious gift for the treasure he seeks

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
A man after God's own Heart
Working like the ant to provide for the summer and winter of life
All things increase as he honors the Lord whit his tithe
Over and above offering sets him up for prosperity
All needs are met beyond what he could ask or think

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
A warrior on his knees
Daily he communicates with God
And his trust is placed in Him

To the voice of the Lord he pays attention
For it will give him sound direction

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
The Beloved
As he searches for the wife that will be his crown
His treasure is busy building the kingdom when she is found
The greatest love he will ever find

He loves her as Christ loves the church
For that is a true measure of a man

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
He is a wise counsel
Raising his children to love and fear God
To rise up with anger never have they been prod
Leading by example to take correction without complaint
Proving that sometimes love calls for chastening and restraint

What is a Mighty Man of Valor?
He ends his day with honor
Leaving a legacy of love for generations to come
His life an example for his daughters and sons
To pray always and never cease
To hold on for the blessing slow to release
To trust his wife to hold his heart
To seek his purpose and fulfill his destiny
To excel in his work and stand before kings
To labor in righteousness leading to life
To always heed words of the wise
A man that stands and doesn't run for cover

This is what makes a Mighty Man of Valor!

Dedicated to the memory of the late Edward "Teddy" Cook
Sunrise 12-15-26
Sunset 07-08-06

Written by His Grandchildren

Walk in YOUR Authority

2006-07-17T06:45:00.000-04:00

Walk in your authority! No matter what you are facing this week, start out knowing that you have the power and dominion to accomplish the task that is before you!

Oftentimes in life we allow ourselves to get enthralled with needless cares that don't matter. We allow others to confine us to THEIR preconceived notions and ideas. This needs to stop now! TODAY make sure that you have a grip on your personal matters and have outlined, for your eyes ONLY, where you are headed and what it is going to take to make it to your final destination.

The journey is just as important as the destination but if you don't walk in everything that has been given, then you are inviting unnecessary drama! Some of us like drama, I will admit. But for those who desire something different than the ordinary, I challenge you. NO, I dare you to walk in the authority that God has already given you.

You don't have to be last any longer if you picture yourself already having what they told you you can't have. You don't have to be the first runner up because God said that it is yours! Take dominion because the power and authority have already been given to you!

It's yours for the taking so go for it! Remember, for those of you who listen to Hip Hop, TI declared that he was the King of the South when there were others who had more rights to the title but no one ever spoke up! I rest my case...

Now that's real talk...

Your NAME, Is it good or bad?

2006-07-13T07:57:00.000-04:00

IN this new season, realize that your name is all you have so treasure it and take care of it! Protect your name at all costs! I received a credit report of regarding my name and found out that there were some items listed under my name that shouldn't have been there. This was causing my name to lose value and credibility. My name was unable to work to its full potential, on my behalf, because something was attached to it that was causing it to decrease in value! It was amazing that my name was speaking and I wasn't saying a word!

How many people talk a good game however when it comes time to show up to the level of the rhetoric that they have uttered from their lips, they are unable to do so? A name is very important and once its messed up, it can be very hard to repair. Whether you realize it or not, your name speaks for you whether you are present at the table or not so the question is, what does your name look like? Your name tells a lot about your character and integrity. It speaks of your ability to come through with what you said you would do. How much can you attain from your name? Don't tell me show me!

Now that's real talk!

Expect the Unexpected

2006-07-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today is a day that belongs to those who are not limited in their expectations! Don't put a hold on your expectations, expect anything and don't settle for whatever! Transition is in the atmosphere so put your expectations to the test! If you don't get anything, do not blame anyone but yourself. Remember, it's a matter of perception that plays a vital role in that which you see. With that said, see yourself in the very near future reaching the prize and walking in your unlimited potential. Today is for those who were preparing for it yesterday! Transition is the key, use it to unlock your dreams so that your destiny on earth can be fulfilled!

Don't be afraid to tap into the unknown because the scripture tells us that the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof. If you believe it, then act like it and step out on faith into that which you have been waiting on.

Now that's real talk!

Transition

2006-07-10T08:15:00.000-04:00

Transition is something that is taking place all around us. It is a very exciting time to be alive so hold fast to your profession of faith. Understand that God has pre-ordained you for greatness so that even though things look tight and things look as if they are going against you, everything works together for good to them that love the Lord. Transition can be tough because it opens you up to something new. Transition, while exciting in one instance, can bring much grief because of the "fear of the unknown" that awaits you!

In moving in transition remember that transition is good! Sometimes it doesn't look or feel good because many tend to be afraid of what is unknown. Many people would rather stay where they are comfortable rather than open themselves up to new possibilities. Imagine what former President Bill Clinton or President George W. Bush had to deal with when they had to transition from being Governor's to the highest office in the Unites States of America. Or for some, imagine being Pope Benedict XVI, who in just a matter of weeks, went from being someone rather unknown to the entire world to now one of the most popular heads-of-state. Like I said, transition can be overwhelming if you don't catch a glimpse of the bigger picture.

Once you have transitioned to a new way of living, there is no turning back! It's just like in the movie, Matrix, taking the red pill or the blue pill. You can't go back, so count the costs and understand that you were created for greatness. Understand and get it settled that you were sent here to this earth for more than just to live, eat, and be merry! You were sent to this earth as an answer to a problem so TRANSITION from a dead state to a "living perpendicular" so that you can be in right alignment to walk into the new thing God has prepared for you to walk in!

Again, let me say, there is no turning back, if you want it, you have got to go for it! Reach up for your destiny and don't look back! Transition to a state of unlimited possibilities! The haters will be there waiting to hate but do as I do and use them as your step stool and keep them under your feet! Now go! The world is waiting for you.

Now that's real talk!

I-N-T-E-G-R-I-T-Y

2006-07-06T05:35:00.000-04:00

This is a word that, most often, is under utilized in the everyday vernacular of life because people tend to do whatever they feel is best for the moment, instead of holding fast to their confession. By confession, I'm referring to a commitment that they have made. Times have changed and so have people, a while back, when a commitment was made, people looked at a verbal commitment as if it were a contract. In the days of old, men could shake hands and come to an agreement and the agreement would be followed through, to the hilt! A man was as good as his word, so the saying goes...

Nowadays, value isn't placed on the words of people as they used to be. Divorce is at an all-time high along with lawsuits from business ventures to even disagreements amongst family. Again, the word is INTEGRITY! Integrity is being the same person "behind closed doors" as if you were in front of people. Because in the final analysis, if God sees all and hears all, who are you trying to kid? Who are you really??? Are you the same even when no one else is looking at you? Can you be trusted in public or private to follow through with what you said you were going to do? Even if it hurts or inconveniences you? Remember, somebody, somewhere is watching you! Think about that for a moment...

Now that's real talk...

IN-dependence or Dependence

2006-07-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

This is the day that we celebrate, as a nation, our independence from Great Britain as a thriving nation, in our own right! July 4, 1776 will forever go down in the annals of time as a MOMENT in time that forever changed the tide of history. Now, over 200 years later and the question remains, are we really independent? What is independence? What did the founding fathers mean when they all signed the Declaration of Independence? I mean, it’s one thing to declare independence from tyrannical rule however; did we take independence too far as we live out our individual/personal lives?

In his book, Winning the Battle for the Minds of Men, Dennis Peacocke uncovers quotes a few of our founding fathers in their outlook on God as it related to this nation:

George Washington
It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.

John Adams
Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people…so
great is my veneration of the Bible that the earlier my children begin
to read, the more confident will be my hope that they will prove use-
ful citizens in their country and respectful members of society.

Thomas Jefferson
The Bible is the cornerstone of liberty…students’ perusal of the sacred
Volume will make us better citizens, better fathers, and better husbands.

Andrew Jackson
That Book (the Bible) is the rock on which our Republic rests.

Benjamin Franklin
A nation of well-informed men who have been taught to know the price
of the rights which God has given them cannot be enslaved.

William Penn
If we will not be governed by God, then we will be ruled by tyrants.

Ulysses S. Grant
Hold fast to the Bible as the sheet anchor of your liberties; write its pre-
cepts in your hearts and practice them in your lives. To the influence of
this Book we are indebted for all the progress made in true civilization
and to this we must look as our guide in the future. “Righteousness
exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”
(pg.49)

I shared this in order to juxtapose the thought or concept of independence vs. dependence. By that I am referring to the heralding call by those who take Independence Day in hopes to rid themselves of alignment with God. When, in actuality, when you look at those who founded this nation, they had a dependence on God while they were in pursuit of independence from tyrannical rule. How different are things now as we look across this nation to see a great many people who pontificate Independence Day but re-align with a different set of beliefs? How different are things today in that we have made it against the law to mention God in certain arenas however we call upon Him whenever a crisis takes place? How different are things today?

I will be the first to say that many of the founding fathers owned slaves, which doesn’t sit well with me at all, so I don’t want it to come across as if I revere them as gods, that couldn’t be further from the truth. My disposition is only to provoke you to think about Independence Day and ask yourself what does it really mean to you? Is Independence Day a day that we, as a nation declare our independence as a nation but yet we personally declare our dependence on God? Or is it a time that we live, drink, and be “merry” forgetting those who have given their very lives for the freedom we take for granted. I would be willing to submit to you this day that we, as humans, are Dependent on God, whether we ever admit it or not, for the very air we breathe. And we should all take this day to be grateful that God has so ordained that we live in a country that gives us the opportunity to CHOOSE! Yes, some of us take this for granted but this really is the most blessed country in the world and we wouldn’t be where we are without GOD!

Now, that's real talk...

Will You Take The Challenge?

2006-07-03T15:15:00.000-04:00

Today is a day that will come only once. So the question is, "what are you going to do with it?" There is so much opportunity in the world that goes untapped because we spend so much time being negative and looking at everything from the wrong perspective. There are so many people who live and die with no regard for the untapped potential that goes to waste all because of HURTS that were never confronted.

Life is too short to be focused on something that you cannot change. You can't un-due the past so why do we spend our every day and every minute paralyzed because of what happened yesterday? It's almost as if we live our entire life full of fear, and the question becomes, "fear of what?" What is it that keeps us from tapping into the very potential that has the ability and capacity to take us to places that we have only dreamed about? What keeps us locked into yesterday when today is present and available to transport us to our tomorrow? What is it that allows us to fall into the deception of believing that our better days are behind us and we deserve the mistreatment we receive? What is it?

I ask the question because those who do reach up to their destiny and grab for the unknown are looked at with envy as if they've done something so wrong. Those who dare to think beyond yesterday and gravitate to the endless possibilities of tomorrow are criticized for not remaining average. Those who consider themselves a breed apart from the rest are the ones who are always being talked about but I can’t help but notice that the ones who talk against are always the ones sitting on the sidelines of game of LIFE instead of being an active participant.

So, the query becomes, do you dare to be different and risk being ostracized and criticized by those who are gripped with fear? Or do you sit and watch someone else inherit the potential that was ALL YOURS? You decide who you want to be, but as for me, I’m going to take every moment given to me to DARE to be different! I can’t let today go by and wonder what I would have become because I understand that life is what you make it to be not necessarily the way it is presented. So, with that said, what are you going to do with today? Because for some, this may be all you have…

Now that’s real talk…

Keep On Going

2006-06-29T03:11:00.000-04:00

One of the things that you have to accept about life is that you will not like everything! Knowing it and accepting it are two different things. Everyone knows that there are issues that they won't agree with others on but accepting this as fact requires a maturity and a keen awareness of those whom you have been called to walk with. When I say an awareness I'm talking about relationships. It's about knowing who you are around and understanding their positives and negatives, their strengths and weaknesses. This is vital in developing holistic relationships because a lot of your destiny is tied up in those whom you are joined too. I tell my young people all the time, your crowd will make you or break you.

This is something that is quite serious when it comes to preparing yourself for destiny. Destiny requires that you delve past the superficial or the "surface" and go into the deep places of the soul. In so doing, you open yourself to great pain. Most people lose sight of the bigger picture here at this stage because of the degree of uncomfort or dis-ease that is experienced at this stage of the journey. But let me encourage you to remember and keep sight on the prize! The journey is not for now, but it's for tomorrow...It's for our future. Yes, it may hurt and it may cause some tears but as "mama and 'nem" used to say, if it don't kill you, it'll make you strong!

In the final analysis of life, remember NO Pain, NO gain! Keep on going regardless of those who come against you to do you harm. Keep on going because the scripture says that the race isn't given to the swift or the strong but to those who endure! Endure WHATEVER and go through what you have to go through because you are on your way to someplace great! You may not understand it now but in the end you will understand that the drama, the pain, the agony, the misery, it was all brought to you NOT to kill you but it was to make you stronger than ever!

Now that's real talk...

Hold Your Peace and LIVE

2006-06-27T16:15:00.000-04:00

Hold your peace and let God fight your battles! Stop trying to fix what you can't fix and stop trying to be something that you're not! Live for the moment and let that take you into tomorrow. If you spend your time trying to be approved by others, you will waste valuable time that could be spent doing what you were ordained to do.
Many people live and die without ever truly living because they are so inundated with being approved and affirmed by people that are not going to like you no matter what you do. I was guilty of this for a long time until I finally had to give up the consistent battle of needing to be affirmed and accepted. I am not saying that it was easy to do but I had to force myself to understand that my true affirmation came from the Lord. I had to see and understand that everybody would not like me no matter what I did. So, with that said, your only hope can be in God. Don't get caught up in the hype of needing others for acceptance. While it's good and wonderful, it can be a great hindrance in the big picture of LYFE!
Live life to the fullest and enjoy each moment...even the bad because you will find out that the dirt is what gives you your foundation to stand! Stand and BE and BE who you stand for! You will find that the greater the test, the greater your blessing. Hold your peace and let the Lord fight your battles! It'll pay off in the end!
Now that's real talk...

Hurt People Hurt People

2006-06-26T14:00:00.000-04:00

As you go throughout your life, please understand this one thing…hurt people, hurt people. I say this because it will allow you to understand not to take things so personal as many people have. This sort of thing happens all the time, and many of you may be like me, I'm one who can be quite retaliatory when someone does or says something that offends me. I am, personally, working on my tongue constantly because I refuse to allow others to get away with anything when it comes to either "telling me off" or trying to manipulate situations to end up on top! I can't explain what happens to me but I totally lose my cool, send an email to voice my anger, or will flat-out call and tell the person myself!
Now, what I should do when hurt people hurt me? First and foremost, you have to keep your mind focused on the bigger picture. The bigger picture has nothing to do with the insecurities of those who try to hurt you. Furthermore, you have to understand that the attack is not personal; that there are other issues involved that need to be addressed that is causing them to attack you.
The second thing you have to do is remember that everybody hasn't been called to walk where you have been called to walk. You can’t allow yourself to get distracted with minute issues that people bring your way. It’s a set up to get you to take your eyes off of the prize of the higher calling – THE BIG PICTURE. It's hard to do but with all that's in you, you have to go for the gold! Strive to do greater! Determine within yourself to achieve greatness, do not, by any means settle with mediocrity. For those who are walking with the Lord, it is said in the word of God that you would endure many trials and tribulations so you have to be of good cheer because in the end, if you do not lose heart, you will reap a wonderful “harvest.”
The third thing is that you and have to understand that they don't mean to hurt you but they can't help themselves because they have obviously either refused to admit that they've been hurt and have problems trusting, which cause them to do crazy and stupid things which offend you or they know that they're hurt but they don't want to accept the fact and strive for inner healing.
Either way it goes, understand that hurt people hurt people and in order to NOT become someone who hurts others, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make sure you deal with any insecurities you have and confront them honestly so that you don't push those who are in your corner away! Unfortunately, many people are guilty of this and they don't realize it until it's too late! ACT NOW before it’s too late!
Now that’s real talk…

Take a Chance at LYFE

2006-06-22T14:06:00.000-04:00

As you go into the rest of this week, I challenge you today to Live L.Y.F.E! What do you have to lose? Life is to be lived and we spend most of our time contemplating our every move according to our wallet. We spend so much time in our day looking at how messed up things are or the mistakes that we made yesterday! I have an announcement: YESTERDAY IS GONE! All you have is today and if you spend too much time today looking at yesterday, your today will become yesterday as well. So, enough already, get up and LIVE!

I say this because for far too long I've been guilty of staying on the sidelines of LYFE to where I was a programmatic human being. By programmatic I mean that I did everything according to what was written in my daily schedule. If it wasn't written, I wasn't doing it. In other words, I wasn't willing to take risks and live LYFE the way I now believe we were all created to live. I've come to an understanding after the past few months of living that I no longer want to live on the sidelines while the world is passing me by. I believe that the Lord pre-ordained me for greatness! I believe that I'm the head and not the tail! Not only do I believe it, it's a fact! Why is it a fact? Because I said so! No longer will I sit and sing my shoulda coulda woulda's! Life is to be lived and lived to the fullest degree! Believe it and receive it TODAY!!!! I'm on my way to speak at a youth conference where I'm destined to meet up with some people who are headed in the same direction that I am headed in...I would never discover this if I was worried about "this" and "that!" Take a chance at LYFE and discover what God has already ordained for you to walk in! Why not? You only live this life once? Take the risk and see... Now that's real talk...

Live to the Fullest

2006-06-20T12:06:00.000-04:00

Today began quite hectic because at the start I received a troubling call. Another brother within the fraternity that I'm apart of passed...SUDDENLY. Things like this can be cataclysmic in that there is nothing one can do to prepare. What do you do? I remember the day my father passed away...SUDDENLY and there was nothing I could do but come to terms with what had happened and begin my preparation to move on with life. Life is not fair! You can be here one day and in another hour, GONE...Just like that!

To begin my day with such shocking news made me ask some questions. Why am I hear? What purpose do I serve on this earth? Why do bad things happen to good people? When I see all the other people that God could have taken why someone who was a father, husband, brother to many, and friend? It's defining moments such as these that help me to regain focus and not sweat the little things in life. Because in the final analysis I am not going to live forever either so it makes me wonder if I'm prepared to go??? If the dearly departed could say anything to me today, I wonder what exactly would any of them say to me? What would they say to a world that spends its time majoring in the minors instead of focusing on the majors? What would they say if they had one last opportunity to give parting words...I can't help but wonder if they'd challenge us to LIVE TO THE FULLEST!

On this day, I challenge all of us to live each day that God gives to the fullest extent and not be encumbered with the intricacies of the comings and goings because they really don't matter. Keep in mind that there is a bigger picture in life and it has nothing to do with us individually but we each play a part in the destiny of the next generation. My thoughts and prayers are on those of us who remain...that we don't continue to be drunk with the wine of the world to the point that we forget the essence and passion in which we are destined to live. Let us live each day as if it is our last! Live to the fullest! Let those you love know that they are, in fact, loved. Let those who played a vital role in your upbringing and success know that their labors have not been in vain! Live to the fullest and die with no regrets!

Now that's real talk...06

Real Men - Real Fathers

2006-06-19T07:06:00.000-04:00

I take this time to pay respects where respects are due; to REAL MEN WHO ARE REAL FATHERS! Fathers day comes along every year and we generally take one Sunday to say, "happy father's day!" However, we often continue on with life without really reflecting on what it takes to be a real man in society today. A real man isn't just one who has a job or has a nice automobile. A real man is not one who has a sexual organ that proves he isn't a female. A real man is one who understands that his responsibility is directing the next generation into a better tomorrow. On the campus of Morehouse College, my alma mater, there is a statue of one of the greatest men that ever lived, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the reason I bring this up is because the statue is erected with Dr. King pointing forward. The statue suggests, just as Dr. King insinuated in many of his speeches, that the life is not for just today but for tomorrow.

A real man is not caught up with the intricacies of today. He does not take thought with where he will sleep or what he will eat but he is fixated on making sure that his children have the right foundation on which to build on that which he leaves behind. A real man is not encumbered with the number of women (or men) he sleeps with but he's unselfish in making sure that he leaves an inheritance to his children's children. A real man is not worried about depreciable assets such as cars, clothes, or anything else that drops in value after it is purchased but he's more concerned that his legacy "spands" down through the centuries. A real man, and I do mean a real man is not worried about making a "name" for himself because he understands that if there is a "name" to be made it will only take place through the embodiment of his offspring.

Now, understand this, nowhere does a real father need or have to physically birth a child to be considered a real father. I say this because throughout this nation there are plenty of children being born everyday, however, there are very few men stepping to the plate to watch over their inheritance. I say inheritance because that is, in fact, exactly what children are, an inheritance given from God. So, I again pay tribute to Real Men who are Real Fathers, I being one of them, because a real man is unselfish in his quest to watch over the next generation. A real father is not focused on the blood that runs through the veins of a child in considering whether or not he will "stand in the gap" as an intercessor. A real man who becomes a real father does not just sign up for a temporary assignment but understands that this is a permanent position in life. A real man who is a real father is not just around for the good days but is aware that there will be difficult days ahead as well. A real father is more concerned with pointing a child forward into their destiny. That's a real father and today and everyday I thank God for those of us who have transcended time in order to see that our tomorrow is better off today!

God bless the real men who are real fathers; not because of their ability to make a child but for their ability to be unselfish and give LYFE and vision so that a child can grow and understand their purpose in life. I have come to realize that the "D" in Dad stands for Destiny!

Dad is Destiny! Now that's real talk...

Positive Affirmation is Powerful

2006-06-15T08:20:00.000-04:00

Words Have Power
The following were inspired by Gary Takacs who is a highly respected business consultant.

I promise:
To be strong so that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.
To make everyone feel that there is something special in them.
To look at the positive side of everything and make my optimism come true.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own.
To learn from the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To have a cheerful presence at all times and give every living creature I meet a smile.
To give so much time and effort to the improvement of myself that I have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too hapy to permit the presence of trouble.
To be a light for others, not a judge of others.

Speak this positive affirmation today and everyday and watch your life transition to a new dimension! Pass this along to others so they can get in on the blessing as well...
Now this IS real talk...

Stay in the PRESS

2006-06-13T08:15:00.000-04:00

You have to realize is that only you really know what you have to do from day-to-day! So, stop allowing people's actions or lack of action to discourage you. As long as you know that God put a desire in your spirit, trust and believe that He'll bring people around you to help bring the dream/vision to pass. It's easy to give up when after you've shared your dreams and visions with others and they sign up for the journey with you, to get disgruntled when you can't seem to find them when the going gets tough! I know personally that life can be a TRIP! And people who say they are for you have a strange way of showing it, but as I say time and time again, CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE of the situation!

By that I mean, look at this as a part of the process. Many great people have the same story you do so don't feel as if it's personal or don't feel as if you're all by yourself. The word of God says that the race isn't given to the swift or to the strong but it's given to the one who ENDURES to the end! Rejoice because you're not finished with your journey and in the words of the poem, "you have miles to go before you rest..." Those who came before you went through worse and still never gave up! As a matter of fact, you have to remember that you have greatness coursing through your veins and it's going to take some time for the dream to manifest but keep on keeping on!

Stay in the PRESS---You're closer today than you were yesterday so don't quit! Stay in the Press---many that came before you died but you survived! Stay in the Press---Work your dream until there is nothing else to work! Believe in your vision until others around you believe it as their own and by all means KEEP HOPE ALIVE! As long as it's alive there is still yet the ability for the dream to MANIFEST! So, stay in the PRESS!

P-Prayer; Believe it or not, prayer changes you and allows you to see differently the people around you.

R-Rejoice in Advance; Although the situation may not change immediately, Keep your spirit up because your spirit can change the atmosphere around you.

E-Expect Anything; At this point, believe and know that anything can happen at anytime. It's all about expectation. If you put it out there you may hook up to your hook up at ANY GIVEN MOMENT!

S-Share the dream/vision with others; If you don't speak it you won't give others an opportunity to be apart of the blessing that God is getting ready to manifest in your life!

S-Stay Strong; The race is given to those who Endure even in difficult times!

Now that's straight up talk...

Never Give UP

2006-06-12T11:00:00.000-04:00

Never give up! No matter how awful things look because the darkest hour is just before the day! I received yet another phone call from one of the mother’s whom I have been working with for the past few years regarding her son…my son for that matter. She called to inform me that he had been arrested AGAIN and was going to be gone for a period of time! Initially, I was a little distressed because after putting so much time and energy into helping others I was beginning to think that my labor was in vain! But what I had to do was change my perspective of the entire situation. After doing this I began to see completely different!

Sometimes in life situations that we are in tend to get worse before they get better and during the process we lose heart because of all the dismay and upheaval that is caused! But be encouraged and know that God is at work and is manifesting Himself even in the midst of dire circumstances! Yes, it's rough and tough to keep a good face in the midst of constant turbulence but understand that God is the pilot in charge and the plane isn't going to crash because you have been called for destiny and purpose! Even I wanted to throw in the towel for a brief minute because I was tired of feeling like I wasn't getting a return on my investment. After all that I have done for so many others, it just seemed as if it would be best for me to give up and say "I QUIT!" But what I first had to do is PRAY! After praying, I changed my posture so that I could make sure that I found God in the circumstance...After doing the rest is what it is! I can't give up because I know this generation is special to God!

God never said that the road would be easy did He? No, He said that "in this world you will have tribulations but be of good cheer because I have overcome the world." Now He said this before he went to the cross so if He overcame before He was brutalized then what did He do? He changed His perspective! It's all about how you see a thing that determines your outcome. How do you see the present trials that face you? If you see them as little things, then they are what you say they are!

You see; I’ve learned that you can never give up on the children. Although they do things that disappoint, you can never ever give up! The day you give up might as well be their last day to live because they rely on the hope in knowing that their parent(s)/teachers, advisors/counselors will be there for them, in the good and yes, even in the bad. So, I’m encouraging you and speaking to myself at the same time to keep hope alive! The brighter days are still ahead! The Lord has been faithful to me for this long, why would I think it would stop now? If I’ve learned anything from working with youth over the past 10+ years, it’s been the importance of PRAYER! On days when I have wanted to give up, prayer has been the thing in my life to bring me back to an equilibrium by which I’m able to see what I couldn’t see with the natural eye!

So I leave you with these words…never give up, even when all hope is lost and it seems that it’s getting worse instead of better.

NEVER GIVE UP!

F.E.A.R.

2006-06-08T22:06:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't know me, I am an avid reader. I'm always reading something positive and informative in order to be able to join the conversations that are taking place in the community and in the world. I'm in the process of reading the book written by Hill Harper, "Letters to a Young Brother," in which he writes about the issue that holds many of us hostage today - FEAR!

This particular chapter grabbed me because I realized that even I, with all that I have accomplished, still battle with this deadly poison called fear. Why would I call this a deadly poison? I call it such because fear, when embraced, becomes an agent that works to paralyze you from doing what it is you are destined to do. Or, another way of looking at it, it causes you to think, when inhaled into your being, that you are inadequate in and of yourself. Fear will drive you to worry which can lead to sickness or even worse, death. And I've come to realize that there are many who are living physically, but spiritually or mentally dead because of fear!

It was amazing as I continued to read that I was dealing with a few issues that I thought I had overcome. I didn't even want to write this but one way of getting over fear is confrontation and this is something I do on a continual basis in order to never be locked into YESTERDAY. I made a declaration last night that I wouldn't allow my fears or insecurities to hinder what I know God has placed within me. So, today, I'm pushing forward for the prize that is ahead of me no matter what the outcome may bring.

I just recently decided to publish a book that I wrote well over a year ago and the reason I'm just now doing so is because I was afraid! I was afraid of what people might say and I was afraid of what people might think. I was afraid of being laughed at...I could keep going on and on and on. But the fear of what if kept me from proceeding forward and the outcome has been NOTHING! What have I been waiting on? Perfect conditions? If that's the case, then I'll be waiting for the rest of my life because conditions will never be perfect. So, now it's time to move forward and maybe no one will publish the book but I will never know if I am too afraid to step out and do what I have never done before. I could keep on making excuses for why I can't but at the end of the day God is going to come to me and ask me what I did with the gifts he blessed me with.

In Hill Harper's book, he describes fear as "False Evidence Appearing Real." It's amazing that you and me have allowed false evidence that appeared real to keep us from reaching our destinies! Many of us have been walking around dead spiritually because of our misconstrued perception and the real question is, how many people are suffering because of the fear that has imprisoned us? I can only answer for me but after today, I'm done with fighting this toxic poison called fear.

"There are three kinds of people in life, those who make things happen; those who wait for things to happen; and those who sit and wonder what happened." Now which one are you?

Now that's real talk...

HE Saved the Best for Last

2006-06-06T08:10:00.000-04:00

As I was driving into work this morning, I began to hear the song that was sung by Vanessa Williams entitled, "Saved the Best for Last." Instantly, I could feel my inner-self coming alive because I was being reminded within my soul that no matter how bad things may look like or how often people try to block you from advancing, GOD, not man, saved the best for last!

Man cannot block or hinder you from advancing when it is your time! Receive that this day and understand that during this season of transition that the entire world is going through, it's YOUR time to come forth! I know you're probably like me, I've heard this in church so often that I've kind of become immune to the statement almost to the point that all I looked at it as was a real nice song! But this morning there was something different about what I was hearing. It was as if God, Himself, came out of eternity into time and got into the radio and used the song to speak directly to me! The funny thing to me is that I don't even really know the words to the rest of the song, the only thing that came playing and RE-playing in my spirit was HE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST!

To some of you this may not mean anything, but there are a lot of questions that I reserved for the Lord in questioning why things happened the way they did in my life and in the life of my father before me. And this statement, HE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST, answers a question that resounds in my life with purpose because I was determined to NOT be a victim of other people's expectations! I was determined that my life wasn't going to be a repeat of many of the things that my father went through and kept silent about! That's not me...I don't shut up when I smell manipulation, contempt, and others who are insecure trying to flex and control me and my actions! So, like many of you, I am always asking the question, WHY? Why are things like they are? Why are people always trying to make me think I'm the problem? Why can't I just be who God ordained me to be? Why can't people just leave me the hell alone so that I can grow and mature into the man that God would have me to be? And the answer came back to me, and I pray that you receive it as well, HE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST!

It was all a test to see if you'd lose heart and become discouraged. It was just a test to see if you'd give up and throw in the towel but I want you to be encouraged today that God hasn't forgotten you because HE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST!

Now that's straight up talk...

Born to Rebel

2006-06-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

There are some situations in life where you have to realize that you are called to start something new. The old way was good for it's time but now, today, is a new day. Rejoice and know that you are fearfully and wonderfully made! You are an original and you need to understand that. You may not fit in to the status quo and that's quite alright. Don't let anyone tell you that you need to "get with the program!" Some programs were designed without you in mind, so it's okay to start something that fits with where you are.

You may be like me, for a long time I felt as if I was a round peg trying to fit into a square hole. I just felt like the odd man out and without realizing it, I distanced myself from everyone around me. Instead of embracing my differences, I entertained thoughts of suicide and alienation because I didn't know how to communicate what was going on in my mind! But thanks be to God I didn't remain in that "rut," I, instead, decided to be proactive rather than inactive and be the catalyst for change! I got sick and tired of being sick and tired and that right there made all the difference in the world!

When someone tells me I'm rebellious now, I receive it differently from the way I used to. I now look at it from a different perspective which allows me to process it in it's totality. The late Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays, a great philosopher of his time and a former president of Morehouse College, wrote a book titled, "Born to Rebel" in which he discusses his upbringing and how he fought against the system of his day. He didn't take the brunt of racism the way he was supposed to take it. He wasn't supposed to get an education but he attained his PhD. He wasn't supposed to rise to the ranks to become an advisor to the United States President, but he did it anyway. He wasn't supposed to produce leaders but became a mentor to one of the greatest African Americans whom we now honor with a holiday, none other than the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

You see, the point is this, if you allow others to control your thinking they will, in turn, control your actions! Realize and understand this one thing, you were born for a purpose that may not fit within the confines of the parameters people place you in. So, don't let it stop you and don't be disrespectful, but with everything in you understand and accept the fact that you were born for greater. Understand and know that it's not just about you but about the generations connected to your every decision. So, with that said, the next time someone tells you that you are fighting against the "system," look at it the way I do and just say, "I was born to rebel" and be apart of something new!

Now that's straight up talk!

Stay On Your "Grind" No Matter What

2006-06-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

No matter what things look like, stay in the press and grind it out! People have no clue as to what you really went through to get to where you are today so don't give them the satisfaction of trying to explain yourself! You don't owe ANYONE anything and don't let people put you in a trick bag to make you think you do! The old guard is good for playing the manipulation card! It was used a lot "back in the day" to keep people enslaved but now that we are more educated and more knowledgeable about what all is out here, we've grown further than the idiosyncrasies of the past! The past is just that...In the past!

Understand one thing, tomorrow belongs to those who prepare TODAY...NOW! Realize that doors will be shut in your face but that doesn't mean that it's not your season, it's just that your blessing is going to come from a different house, that's all. Don't allow bitterness, envy, jealousy, and intimidation to get the best of you as many from the old guard will disappoint you and count you out. If you stay focused you'll realize that those who said NO served as the catalyst for your unveiling!

I am not just saying this because I have nothing better to say. This is a time when you have to push through the pain and hurt and remember why you were sent to this earth. You're here for more than just to have a job and get married. You're here for more than just living from paycheck to paycheck. In the bigger scheme of things you're supposed to have great influence. How will you develop influence if your name is not known? Remember, the old guard isn't going to do it for you, you're going to have to do it yourself. As Jesus told Peter in the gospels, "Cast down your nets!" If you never put "IT" out there, you'll never be able to see the manifest blessings of God! Take note, in the scriptures, when Peter through his nets down his catch was so great that the other boats had to help him with his catch!

Stay on your grind and put your expectations to the test. As a matter of fact, let your expectations work for you rather than you working for them. With intimidation and contempt...But they'll see after awhile, just make sure you don't let it bread anger and hostility in your heart. I guarantee, you'll see the atmosphere around you begin to change. So, dare to believe God and step out on faith--take action!!! Let the rest handle itself...As my young folks say, STAY ON YOUR GRIND no matter what!

You Gotta Know When

2006-05-30T11:00:00.000-04:00

You have to know when to "hold" em and know when to "fold" em! As you go through your day today, ONLY FIGHT FOR WHAT'S WORTH FIGHTING FOR! Don't get caught up in the drama that your job, church, home, business, etc. Brings your way and BELIEVE ME they will! This can be hard if you're like me. I'm one of those people who have to have the last word...And I WILL HAVE THE LAST WORD on just about everything. :) So, when it comes to learning how to ignore ignorance, it just seems so hard. I have to admit that today so that you can understand that I'm not just saying something just to say something. There are many things in life that I'd like to change. There are many people that I'd like to avoid dealing with and there are a few that I'd like to "off!" If I can be so blunt!

But what I've come to understand is this, some people are anointed to "get on your nerves!" I'm talking to myself just as I am talking to you today. This is something that is hard to accept especially when you have a very low tolerance for ignorance but what else are you supposed to do? Think about it this way, what are you going to accomplish by telling the person off? The only thing you accomplish is a temporary feeling of triumph followed by the realization that nothing has changed! You can't go around just going off all the time because in the end it doesn't do any good and it renders you ineffective because all you become known as is someone who "blows" hot steam but no substance. You have to pick your battles and sometimes, leave well enough alone.

Focus on YOU and work from the inside out, that's how you become the change agent in your home, church, workplace, community, etc. You can't change anything from the outside in but rather from the inside out! In order to change others, you have to first of all BE THE CHANGE and allow your new attitude to spread rather than vice versa. My aunt and I were just talking the other day about the plethora of ignorance that we have to contend with on a daily basis from various different leaders. And the thing she told me was, "You have to know when to hold 'em and know when to 'fold em." Some things aren't going to change unless you change first! As you go through the rest of your day, week, month and even the year, know that real change starts from within. You can do more by working on you than you can by constantly being critical of others.

You're too blessed to be allowing yourself to get stressed over nonsense and foolishness. You gotta know when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em. Work on yourself and let the rest take care of itself!

Now that's straight up talk...

Take Time to Remember

2006-05-29T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's always good to take a moment and reflect on the memories you have of the loved ones who are no longer with you on the journey of LYFE. This day can be hard if you make it so but it can be used to also push you further into your destiny. You may ask, how so? Well, for me, this is a day that I remember those who've helped me to get where I am today. I realize that I wouldn't be here without them and understand that they (many who have passed) laid a foundation for which I am now standing. That alone gives me the impetus that I need to stay focused and not allow anyone or anything to keep me from walking into the destiny that God has prepared for me. Thanks Dad, Mike, Bishop, and many others who paved the way for a better day!

If Not Now, When? If Not You, Then Who?

2006-05-25T07:06:00.000-04:00

This is the question you need to ask yourself as you go through the next few days of your life. If you are one of those who has been wondering the what if's of life, then this is exactly the WORD you need to GO! There are lives waiting for you to do what God has called you to do. If you would just take a minute to look at the "bigger" picture of life which has nothing to do with [right now]. I know that many of you are paralyzed with fear because of the "chance" of failing because I was the same. I was comfortable sitting on the sidelines watching others jump off the "cliff" just as long as it wasn't me...But was I satisfied? HELL NO!

How could I be satisfied with the status quo when God called me to GREATER? So, I'm telling you, the reader, you aren't satisfied with where you are now because you know that there is a higher calling for your existence and there is no greater time than the present. If you don't take this prophetic step of destiny now, then when will you? If you don't step out and dare to take the risk then who will do it? Do you want to see someone else inherit what you know was predestined for you to inherit? It's this simple...For me to inherit what my father left me in his passing, all I had to do was show up! There was nothing else that I had to do because it was already mine! As you take this step of faith, don't just think about yourself but think about the children. Enough said, so I close and ask again, If not now, when? If not you, then who?

Now that's straight up talk...

If It's 2 Be, It's Up 2 Me

2006-05-23T08:45:00.000-04:00

HATERS BEWARE! Today is a fresh new day given by God for you to make a difference! Do just that and use the haters as your platform! Step all over their face as you dare to defy the odds that are set up against you! Can you believe that many people died in pursuit of that which is within your reach? History is made up of defining moments and this, right here, is a defining moment for you and your entire bloodline! As it was said previously...MAKE IT HAPPEN! Only you can determine your destiny!

I used to get frustrated by what I thought was a blatant attempt, by others, to keep me down. But when I got a different view and realized that I had to see my situation in a different light before it would actually change, my entire outlook transformed! And believe it or not, it all started in my mind! I had to begin speaking things into existence before they actually happened. I had to force myself to see the obstacle removed before it would actually be gone and then, and only then did my situation change. It was my DETERMINATION to make a difference in the lives of my sons and daughters that caused me to take this step of faith. And what a step it was!

As the saying goes, "If it's 2 be, it's up 2 me!" How true it is because I no longer am waiting on the naysayers or the old guard to move over...I'm busting through the doors myself and making it happen cuz if it's 2 be, it's up 2 me! Go ahead and do something that you haven't done before. Don't be a fool and continue to do the same thing and expect a different result! The world is hungry and waiting for you to show up so the question is, what are you going to do?

Make It Happen

2006-05-22T12:06:00.000-04:00

There is no time better than the present to push through the trials of life in order to see your dreams come to pass! A saying that I've heard often is, "He who works for perfect conditions will never move!" So, with that said, go for your dream! Today is what you make of it! There is no one that is standing in your way except YOU! You can't blame anyone on your failure if you never step out on faith and believe in your heart that it's your time!

One of my favorite affirmations is, GOD SAID IT, I BELIEVE IT, AND THAT SETTLES IT! Now what else are you waiting for to make IT happen? Reach for the stars and I guarantee that your situation is going to work out for the good. Yes, it's been tight but the time is right! Make it happen...Not just for you, but for your children's children...They'll be glad you did.

Now that's straight up talk...

Who Do You Attract?

2006-05-18T10:06:00.000-04:00

A Lion leading a pack of sheep can do MORE than a sheep leading a pack of lions. Why? Because everything rises and falls on leadership! Now, what type of leader are you? Or a better question may be, who do you have following you?

Today's generation is looking for a leader with lion characteristics because these are the men and women who have the ability to do what few people can, RELATE! To be a successful leader in today's world as it pertains to Generation "X" one must have great communication skills! Communication is key because young people aren't able to discern motives and agendas from facial features like a lot of adults can. In addition to communication, one has to have a heart for young people. You may not understand why they do what they do but you have to be able to listen without asking too many questions. The reason being is, questions, when posed all at one time will tend to make young people defensive and this is what you don't want to happen if you're trying to understand where the generation is coming from. So, practice listening more than talking! I know what I'm talking about because I had to do the same exact thing.

By nature and training, I learn simply by asking questions, but I had to come to a level of understanding with this rising generation. Questioning their every action will tend to push them away more so then bring them closer. So, I had to sit, watch, and pray for understanding. I remember times when I'd just sit in their company and watch them for hours because I wanted to understand their world and culture. And I must admit, I learned more than I could have ever learned by reading a book from a PhD! Why am I saying this? Because we have a generation who wants to be understood but they don't feel that leadership spends enough time listening. And, in a way, they do have a point. I know this because I was guilty of the same thing. Many leaders think that I have "sold out" to the darkside because I keep young people in my presence all the time. I listen to their music and do know the words now! :)

But, before you cast stones at me, I'm able to reach them now because they know that I love them and won't stand in "judgment" and this is what they are afraid of. I didn't know this until I began to see the walls come down from some of the most "thugged" out sons that I have. The more I spent time listening, the more I could see the REAL them coming out. The more I observed, the more that I could tell that what they showed the rest of the world was a facade. BUT IT TOOK ME coming down from my "high horse" as a preacher of the most high God in order to do what Christ did which is LOVE!

So I'll ask you again, what type of leader are you? A "lion" can do more leading a pack of sheep than a "sheep" who is leading a pack of lions! A lion type leader has an ability to awaken the warrior spirit that may be dormant where as a sheep will kill ANY warrior spirit that is active, charged and ready for marching orders. The sheep type leader will cause the lions to either die or go astray! Do you attract young people or do they generally wander away?

Now that's straight up talk...