Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #125

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone, today and every day! WOW! There has been one hundred twenty-four past days of finding ways to be thankful! What a journey…huh? On July 25, I started at the very bottom, having you be thankful with me for the simplest thing as a TOILET! It is not so simple when you need to go and do more than release fluid. Sorry, I had to take you there, but some of you are still just as ungrateful as ever. Yes, I said it. Anyway…we started day one with the toilet and yesterday we were (I was) thanking people who have made a certain impact on my life this year. I do not know about you, but I am certainly MORE aware of the things for which I have to be thankful than I was on July 25, 2015. I hope you are too. In addition, if not, then it is time to start your own journey of thankfulness. Go into the year 2016 with a more thankful heart than you have had in 2015.

So, to all of you who took any time whatsoever to stop at my blog to boost thankfulness in your day or just to see what this girl was talking about, I hope this has enriched your life just as much as it has enriched mine to write it. I am sending a special thanks to all those who shared my postings or commented. You did not have to do that but you did and I am truly grateful. I pray you always keep a thankful heart.

This is just the end of the Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness. I am still here to inspire. J God bless you!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #124

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I tell ya’…God certainly has ways of using people and events to orchestrate my life, getting me to where I need to be. I had to go all the way to Cape Girardeau for an introduction to Hustle and Flow—The Experience, an open mic event that takes place the end of every month right here in St. Louis. Therefore, I am thankful for the experience of finding out about the Missouri Writer’s Guild, which let me to attending a writer’s conference in Cape Girardeau, I heard about through the guild.

There I was at the conference, browsing my phone while on a break. I was waiting for the next session, so the best way for me to pass the time was—Facebook. Ha ha! I was in my own little world until two women walked up to me that I had seen in one of my other sessions.  One of them said, “So what are you writing?” Caught off guard, I must have looked like a deer caught in headlights when I think the first thing that came out of my mouth was “Uhmmm…” with a smile. I was at a WRITER’S CONFERENCE browsing Facebook. (Hey do not judge me…sometimes I do the oddest things to deal with my nerves) I thought she was asking me what I was writing on my phone, but she went on to explain that she was talking about what form of writing I do or what writing projects am I working on. In addition, we joked about what she thought she was reading on my face in response to her initial question. LOL! That was funny. Anyway, the three of us discussed what each of our writing interests were and surprisingly, they travelled from St. Louis as well. I mentioned that I had just started going to share my poetry at a monthly reading in Kirkwood but I was looking for something else. That is when they told me about Hustle & Flow—The Experience. Thank you Mocha Williams and Chan Poetrynmotion Davis for introducing me!

In July, I presented my first piece to the crowd of new ears. If you want to know what I shared, go here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYQIGAAK90w. In August, I presented another piece. A week ago, I decided to cross over into Fairview Heights, IL from Florissant, MO just TO LISTEN at the My First Love Is Poetry series (presented by the same group for Hustle & Flow—Secure Entertainment (http://www.secure-ent.com/)). However, the host called me to share!! I used to do sermonic solos at my old church—I have been trained to be ready at all times (I had two poems folded in my purse—he he!).

So, little steps in my passion this year for writing but all things for which I am VERY, VERY thankful! It has been an adventurous year!

Please be sure to visit one of these young women’s pages on Facebook. You will be able to say you had a firsthand look at the book while yet in the works before it goes to print: https://www.facebook.com/CeeElleReid/?pnref=story

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #123

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today the person to whom I want to say thank you and focus on has contributed to my passion for writing. Never in a million years did I expect or anticipate the support received from this person. Sunday afternoon, January 18, 2015, while the team for the hair salon owner’s video shoots was setting up, I became “tutorial-ready” as Ms. Sherri Thomas’ demonstration model. “You are going to need to lose the gum…it can pick up sound…” was one thing said to me by this person who told me he was in charge for the day. A little later, I guess he came up with a thought or already had this idea formed in his head because he asked me, “Can you dance?” My head was hanging over in the shampoo bowl at this point, “Ha! NO!” I laughed. I thought to myself, the only dancing I did was with my older sister growing up, most times in our bedroom in front of the mirror—PRIVATE DANCERS! Anyway, he had this whole idea created in his brain. At the end of the shoot for the tutorial, I was thinking “what in the world…” because someone literally had her son come to the salon to teach me the Sha-nay-nay in the matter of minutes (I guessed I spelled it right. I never heard of it until that day). This writer, producer, and director had me humiliating myself repeatedly until he was satisfied with the shot. (Seriously, everyone said it was fine, I just felt ridiculous…lol!) This is how I met Mr. Michael D. Francis.

Michael specializes in taking projects from concept to completion. He has worked in various production roles for many shows, to name a few: Nellyville, Judge Judy, Survivor, Biggest Loser, The Voice, America’s Got Talent, Let’s Make a Deal, and Judge Faith. So for a writer like me, where writing is not my actual field of work, it is humbling to have someone who is “walking in” their craft every day to pull you into one of their personal projects they are working on to help someone else. For some reason they believe you can do what they need done. He has taken time to pay attention to the fact that I write without me ever mentioning it or hinting for him to notice. He has taken time to make me aware of workshops/events or other opportunities for writers. Michael even recently took an opportunity to recommend me to a university professor to write a piece for a film project still under production. These are all the types of things that make me thankful for Michael’s thoughtfulness and generosity. So that generosity deserves just a little bit of embarrassment from me. J

Michael prides himself in helping others achieve their dreams and reach their goals. It shows and I can definitely vouch for that. A Californian, he keeps many St. Louis people in the entertainment field working. Michael shares that he is working to bring more production and entertainment options to St. Louis. The hope is to expand the opportunities for the talent pool that exist here. You should also know that Michael has written, shot, produced, and/or directed web content that has captured millions of views for up-and-coming comedians to comedic veterans, like Mike Epps. However, do not be fooled, Michael’s production work reaches beyond the entertainment arena into the world of unsung heroes like the non-profit, The Korey Johnson Foundation (http://www.koreyjohnsonfoundation.com).

A guy who likes to stay behind the scenes without a lot of fanfare, Mr. Michael D. Francis is developing multiple shows of his own based right here in or “about” St. Louis. He hopes to have them on the air within the next year. Yeah, I think it is time for someone to come out of the shadows.

https://www.facebook.com/michael.d.francis.10/about

 

 

 

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #122

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I was gone from Facebook for over a year and this year I returned to help promote the work of a young woman that I believe in very much. I have talked about her maybe a couple other times before in two of my postings. One of those times was in my other blog if you do not recall or never read it: http://charsglasshouse.blogspot.com.  I have benefitted greatly from her background in Trichology due to my permanent hair loss. I am truly grateful for this owner of The House of Raw Elegance, Ms. Sherri Thomas, for giving me back part of my freedom. As of December 30, 2015, her gift, knowledge, and wisdom will have freed me from wigs for 2 years now. I am also thankful that she asked me to participate in her video tutorial for other clients to view. Sharing my secret was a big deal but I already knew it was something I needed to do for other women. After all, for many of us, seeing is believing…unfortunately.

Well, you know WRITING is my passion—right? Tomorrow you will see how saying yes to revealing my secret opened the door to writing opportunities and connections with others that have absolutely nothing to do with my hair. This person deserves a GREAT amount of my gratitude.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #121

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Among all my siblings, my sisters are the main ones with which I have argued, cried, had dances in the mirror (actually that was just my older sister and me), and had girl talks. I am thankful that I can say I have sisters. I know of others who have either no sisters or no siblings at all. I cannot imagine ever growing up not having them, even with us annoying each other at times.

One special thing I still hold on to this day from my older sister, Denise, is a keyboard she got me for Christmas one year. I never learned to play it; I always thought that one day I was going to sing and learn to play that keyboard. I took one piano class in college. I just did not have the patience to stick with it. It is not for sell and I will not get rid of it. Someone once asked to buy it. It is not the type of thing you give away.

My younger sister, Lynn, was my buddy growing up. The two of us were left out of many things because we were too young to participate. When I started writing and composing songs, both of my sisters were such good sports to allow me to put them through repeated rehearsals of my songs but I think Lynn was more willing. However, as we got older and it was just Lynn and me singing (not my songs) I think I was annoying her with my rehearsals (it was that spirit of perfectionism rearing its ugly head). I am so thankful to have sisters who are long-suffering! LOL! I have to mention that when Lynn was born she never read the memo that she was and is the youngest of her six siblings. Nevertheless, I admire the passion she holds for her family; she’s everybody’s mother.

My sisters may some days wane on my nerves and I on theirs, but they are the only female circle I have found with me throughout my life. ~Char

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #120

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I have to talk about my oldest brother, Charles. I would have to say that he is the sibling that was my cheerleader when I was growing up and coming into young adulthood. The other siblings encouraged as well; he was just exceptionally encouraging and believed that I would excel and brag on me. I have to say that he was also the one that influenced me living in Florissant when I first left home. I was looking at a place in Black Jack and he gave me his big brotherly advice. Obviously, he had great influence because almost 16 years later I am still here. J

Angelo, my second oldest brother, left home for college when I was in grade school. I sure did love hearing the sound of him playing that saxophone. Besides my brother Antonio, he was the other brother that did some drawing but he was mostly into the horn playing and still is today (along with being a pastor). I think seeing the two of them draw, contributed to me picking up the pencil to draw though I was primarily writing. You know…come to think of it, my brother William did a “little bit” of drawing too but he loved redefining wood and still does today. All these creative genes…and I traded it for computers—how/why??? I digress. Anyway, I am grateful that though my brother left home when I was little he fell into a life that has kept him close to God. Many youth go off to college and you cannot say that they retain a “sound” mind. While writing this—my mind goes back to some years ago when he was having a serious problem with his vision. I thank God for sustaining his vision. God is indeed merciful.

How grateful are you for loved ones in your life?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #119

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Okay…so I am fortunate to have four brothers but today I will focus on two of them and the other two tomorrow. I am grateful for my brothers for many reasons but especially grateful for having William and Antonio in my life when the buses stopped running in the evening close to my final years of college. They were the two that would make sure I had a ride from my evening classes in Webster Groves back home to Wellston. They played a part in contributing to me doing what I needed to do to complete my studies, and I am extremely grateful they took turns doing that for me. It has been a little over 20 years since I have been out of college but I still remind myself of every person that contributed to me having what I have today as a result of God’s hand in every facet of my education. Never take for granted the contribution of family members that touched some area of your life that bears some fruit today.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #118

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

As I count down these last seven days in my Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness series, I will be focusing on some individuals who have had an impact on my life in general and particularly this year. Today I am thankful for my mom. I am thankful that every year since the doctors initially found she had colon cancer, not one day after her surgery did she have to go through chemotherapy. More important, I am grateful that God has kept her here. I am especially grateful for special moments, like when I have insights or some deep revelation that I just have to get off my chest. When I hit a topic that causes her to go into a lengthy discussion with me, then I know I have peaked her interest.  (ha ha!) Many people wish they had one more day with their mom. If you still have yours, make sure she knows how you feel about her. Do not live with regrets.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #117

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

What is it that you have been doing for a long time now that you thought when you started you would not get as far as you are now? Go ahead; take a few moments to think about what that one thing might be. Do you have it in your mind? Okay—are you thankful for where you are with it? My dear one…what you have is longevity, or what I call “stick with-it-ness.” I have to admit that on July 25 when I started this repeated post for Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness for this segment of my blog, way at the back of my mind there was this little voice telling me I would not keep this segment going until Thanksgiving Day. I heard, “you will get bored and want to write about something else.” Also lurking in my thoughts was that I would not have time to write something every day. Furthermore, what can you be thankful for everyday?? Seriously? That sounds ridiculous, does it not—that I—that WE cannot find VARIOUS things for which to be thankful EVERYDAY? If you have been with me every day, you have been thankful everyday right along with me. No doubt, some days your reasons for being thankful were different from my reasons.

If this “purposeful” thankfulness is new to you but you are getting the hang of it, I hope you like how it makes you feel throughout your day. I hope you are discovering more peace because you did not realize just how truly blessed you are and truly loved by God. Some of us have just allowed our perspective on life to become so marred, that we have failed to see clearly.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #116

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I thank God for peace in the midst of disappointment. Driving home last night I was thinking about how I was almost going to let something that someone failed to do ruin my entire night until God stepped in and reminded me, “No, you’re dead to that type of stuff.” Just let it go—was what I heard. And as I began to just yield to that in my spirit there was a thankfulness that was rising up in me just from the simple fact that I could yield my fleshly emotions, yield having my way, yield feeling how I felt I deserved to feel in that moment, and not let any of that control me. That is such an empowering feeling! When we can come to the point where it becomes second nature on a consistent basis to rise above negative emotions, we will find consistent peace beyond our imagination. No, this is not a matter of “pretending” that negative things do not bother us, it is a matter of experiencing true spiritual growth through oneness with Christ.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #115

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I am thankful for being prepared, prepared to do whatever it is that I am to do or say while I WAIT on the opportunity. If you are like me, you can get restless with reading, studying, or listening—gaining much knowledge, and growing in wisdom but having no outlet. Now I am thankful for those times because I am coming into those situations where an opportunity presents itself. It is like an "ah ha" moment. One particular situation occurred this past weekend in a class I was facilitating. There was a question asked that I never anticipated but was smiling on the inside because I thought, “finally, someone is thinking below the surface.” Therefore, now I have the opportunity to pull together information I have to give a “clear” answer back to this person and the rest of my class. Side note: I am of the breed that likes to jump down rabbit holes and come back up saying—look what I found! I like to dig deeper—point blank.

Your soul’s hunger may seem unfulfilled and make you feel it is all pointless. However, if your hunger for more has you in a state of constant preparation that has you asking “for what,” do not give up! In addition, if you are now starting to see even a glimmer of "for what" you were preparing—be thankful!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #114

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I thank God for another day that I opened my eyes—another day to serve the purpose He desired—just in this day alone. Today, with a heart of thankfulness, I say a prayer for you and I say a prayer for myself. Lord, in this day—give us to hear within our spirits the things that You want us to fulfill each day, not wasting time thinking about the days that have not yet arrived. Let us not miss the opportunities to sow the seeds you desire we sow in a given day. Let us not miss the opportunities to “say with our lips” the things you want us to say, or write with our hands the things that need to be written. Let nothing we do just be done off the top of our heads to impress or serve any purpose other than being the instruments you have given us opportunity to be. This I pray for those reading and myself. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #113

Well we're going to see how this goes. I am actually sitting under the dryer right now typing this post on my smartphone. If it were really smart it would telepathically capture all my thoughts and put them on the page. Haha! No, seriously I am thankful today for technology that allows me to do one of the things I love to do most--write. Specifically, today I'm thankful to God for the wisdom He's given mankind to come up with smartphones. It's not the smartphone that's bad for people, it is the person who lacks discipline using the smartphone's benefit. More importantly, there is a void in all of us that causes us to turn to things/people for that sense of completion...fulfillment. I am speaking of fulfillment that is out of balance. Different ropic for another time. So anyway, I am grateful for smartphones this morning helping keep me on my personal mission. It is going to be a busy day.

Okay! My hand is starting to cramp now! How in the world do these youguns two-thumb it all day long?!! I'm out...

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #112

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

This morning I just want to take time to thank God for opening my eyes. I thank God that it is the end of another work week followed by two days to do some of the things that I want and need to do. I thank God for the hands I have to type these words and eyes to see these words. I am grateful for the love that flows through me because I know that it only flows because of the grace of God. I thank God for every opportunity He gives me to be a blessing to someone else and I thank Him for the ways that He uses others to bless me. I am truly grateful to God for the quality of my life. Everyone, including myself, can think of ways that life could be better but it could be far worse. I am grateful.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #111

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am thankful for new insight and “know-how” through the power of prayer to my heavenly Father. With my busy schedule I was asking God how I am going to memorize something I needed to memorize in short time for a project on which I am working. My pastor has constantly reminded his congregation that when we pray don’t just go through the motions but to speak back to God the promises He has already given us authority to speak in His Word when we are in “right-standing” with Him. So I prayed in faith about this memorization dilemma a couple days ago and it was almost instantaneous that He revealed to me what to do. The answer was so clear that I thought, “Of course, why didn’t I think of that on my own?” See, that is the problem—sometimes I can be too self-reliant. Furthermore, I could never have one thought on my own if He did not give me the mental capacity to think. God wants to be first in everything; there should be no place to exalt ourselves above the Source of everything! Getting back to my original point… With God’s answer, in just about a day’s time I practically have the thing memorized without using one bit of downtime to devote solely to memorizing! God I thank you for your wisdom!

But the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. (John 14:26 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #110

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am thankful for new connections. This year I have more focused on asking God to give me purposeful relationships. I do not need an entourage of people, just REAL people. People often just want to make friends with anyone. However, as someone asked me last night, “What is the purpose in being friends with a person if the two people can both help each other but they don’t?” Moreover, that is just it—true friends do help one another in the way that they can. No two people can offer the same thing to one another but both of you have something that the other needs. I call this balance. Who has God placed in your life that balances you and you add balance to them? Who wants to connect with people who only zap all the life out of you because they always need something from you (an ear, your time, money, etc.) but never contribute anything to the relationship? There is no reciprocation. Thank God for the relationships in your life where there is mutual reciprocation.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #109

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

This morning I am just grateful for renewed hope. When we encounter so many things in life over a period, it can be enough to make us want to lose sight of hope. But I am so thankful that God daily sends little glimmers of hope to keep us going whether it is through people we encounter, words we hear or read (especially in His Word), or a song we hear. Daily renewal of my hope keeps my faith growing strong for the various needs and desires in my life.

It may seem so corny to use right here (at least I used to think it was corny when I heard it)—but I feel it is appropriate to use Jesse Jackson’s old phrase here—“Keep hope alive.” Do not fault me; I was a child! J However, truly, writing this it hit me that if you/we do not seize the hope given to us daily it dies. Moreover, if that hope dies, so goes our ability see ourselves being victorious (faith). In addition, of course if we are not seeing it before we SEE IT, it cannot happen. On the other hand, I take that back because if you/we are seeing defeat… Yep, you guessed it! That is just what you will get in the natural. Keep hope alive! (Thanks Jesse Jackson J )

Now faith is the substance of things HOPED for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #108

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today all I have can say…well all I have to write is that I am thankful for the weekend that I had. Though it always passes too quickly for me, I am grateful for the time I had to get some things done and not having to get up for work a couple days. It is easy to spend my time wishing I had more days off work but I could relieve myself of that torment if I spent time imagining what my life would be if I had to work every single day. There was a woman this past weekend in the Saturday class I facilitate mention that the only day she gets to sleep late is New Years Day! She ONLY gets to sleep late every New Year's Day? So, she has to wait a complete year to have that option…every year? I found myself having that very conversation in my head as she talked and it turned into, “Thank you God for my weekends!” No matter how quickly they pass, I AM GRATEFUL they roll around MORE THAN ONCE a year. Lord, I thank you!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #107

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am thankful for inspiration. As a creative soul, there have been times when I felt like my well had just run dry—like there was no source of life from which I could pull. So, I’m thankful when I’m allowed to find inspiration in the chords of a melody, a rare appearance of a turtle crossing my patio, words spoken by someone that reaches into my soul, a piece of artwork that causes my eyes to dance, or uhmm…I see a male who is fearfully and wonderfully made. Get your mind out the gutter—that is scripture. LOL! We ALL are fearfully and wonderfully made! Okay, okay, believe it or not, I am not always Ms. Serious and I am Godly but I ain’t dead. J ANYWAY—I find inspiration at some of the most inopportune times but I am grateful for it. It keeps me fresh with creativity.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #106

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Clunk! That is the sound of a fallen chain—the sound of a mental stronghold. I thank God for the various spiritual chains that have been falling for me, especially this year. Just a few months ago while visiting some old family friends who had just lost a loved one; I had an experience that I did not expect. We were catching up on some happenings and one of them spoke words to me about how she could see a freedom in me. I will not go into details of the conversation but she spoke to the very things that were going on inside me. I had not been able to express this freedom to anyone. She had not seen me in years, and yet now in her presence she saw it. Here I was coming to comfort them and instead I was receiving the blessing. J

Just because we are free in “some” areas does not equate manifestation of freedom in “all” areas. We can “see” all the freedoms we want externally but still feel like we are on lockdown when we are not free mentally in any one or more areas. Failure to embrace “fully” the power of God’s Spirit for our everyday lives through the work of Christ keeps us bound. (Those that have spiritual ears to hear and understand let them grasp this) It keeps us bound to old lies, the belief that other people (including government, etc.) control or limit our ability to excel (instead of knowing there is a bigger hand at work in control of our situation). Yep, I thank God for the “chains” that continue to fall.

I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return]. (Philippians 1:6—Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #105

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I thank God today for deliverance from the spirit of perfectionism…well except for when I need it for work. LOL! Seriously, growing up it was so chronic—I am sure my mother would agree. When I was the age that I could start picking out my own clothes, I got a shirt that read “Perfect in Every Way.” I remember it had glitter outlining the words. Indeed, it sparkled! For some reason unknown to me, I put that pressure on myself. If I baked something and it tasted good but its appearance did not turn out to my satisfaction, I wanted to throw it away. Now you know Willie…I mean my mother (ha ha!) was not having that! In addition, my siblings absolutely hated if I took something out the oven and I made them wait exactly all the minutes stated on the recipe (and maybe more) for it to cool. Well, now I could not have my cookies, or brownies, or cake tearing up ruining my presentation. However, there was one time my perfectionism got the attention of one of my brothers. He is the youngest of my four older brothers. I remember I was a crying, frustrated teenager on a particular day, running late for school because I could not get my hair to behave the way I wanted. I think my mom was out of town visiting my grandmother at the time. I was crying, so my brother felt so sympathetic towards me that he actually took time to comb my hair together. I tell you, I cannot remember exactly in what kind of style he put it. I do recall that it was not specifically to my “perfect standards” but it was something about him being a patient big brother taking time to comb my hair (his sister’s hair) that stopped me from crying. I was satisfied enough to leave the house, I know that! J

Yep, being a perfectionist takes a much greater toll on the person carrying the weight than those who only have to be on the receiving end. Nevertheless, as I have said once before, I thank God for the balance He has brought to me in this area. Sometimes I still have to catch myself. J  I realize that there is a place for it; it serves me well in the way that I accomplish my job and serve others with my skills. So, what has been your Achilles Heel for which you can also be thankful?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #104

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Manager:      So, how is Charlotte today?

Me:                 I’m good. You know…no complaints. *smiling*

Manager:      You always a have smile; no matter what you have a smile on your face…

Me:                 (interrupting) I have my bad days where I complain and voice my opinions.

Manager:      But that does not happen often. Some people complain all the time…

That is just a little of one of my most recent conversations for which I am thankful. I am my own worst critic. No matter how rare, I absolutely hate it when a situation occurs and I am left feeling like, “Oh God, I didn’t handle that right.” On the other hand, there will be times when I feel like I should have kept my opinion to myself. However, when people can witness seeing past “Charlotte” to what they do not understand, it causes me to look deep within myself. I look deep within because it has nothing to do with self-discipline (I am not that patient). It has nothing to do with me being good on my own (trust me I have inner help). I know it is Christ's light within that gives me grace—grace to do what does not just come “natural.” Therefore, I say these things not out of remorsefulness but out of a heart of thankfulness that in spite of me, the good Lord leads my life in a way that will preserve His good name that I wear. “He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #103

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

No, it is not The A Team from television. This picture was part of a promo for a vendor to market a new product at a HR Technology Conference in Vegas last October. This picture is representative of one of the many things of which I am thankful—opportunities. Too many people sit around waiting for "that major thing" to take place in their life before they are willing to let the world know that they are grateful for every moment they experience in life. I am very grateful for every little window in life to just explore and be a part of something where when the day I leave this earth things are left behind that say, “Charlotte was here.”

So if you have children, live in a way that the memories of you bring smiles. If someone gives you the opportunity to travel for any reason and you can, do it! Regardless of the opportunities given you, if there is no good reason for you to let them pass, seize them. Then be thankful someone granted them to you.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #102

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

How many times have you had something happen in your life and you just KNEW you were NEVER going to get over it? I mean, it was so embarrassing there had to be a way for you to never go in public again or at least move to some far away remote island where you were not known (or at least no one there knew this embarrassment). I just wish someone told me that those “head in the sand” embarrassing moments would happen in your childhood as well as on into adulthood. Nevertheless, THANK GOD, we all get pass them! We are resilience-made! Therefore, I thank God the slip that fell down around my ankles walking down the street with my sisters in my childhood did not make me a hermit. And though I have SOME classmates that to this day will not let me forget the time I fell down the bleachers in a gym full of people, I had (and still have) a lot more note worthy happenings in my life. And though I made it through college and pronounced Wichita as Weh-chee-tuh while recording some daily sales rankings early in my work life (I didn’t know), I overcame the talks behind my back.

I could go on and on about even worst events; I am sure you have your own fair share. Nevertheless, we are still doing life with other people. Thank God—we are resilient!

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #101

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am thankful that by way of St. Louis Community College last night I successfully completed my first grant-writing course on my path to being able to consult. Because I have just always loved to write, I love being able to diversify how and for what I construct my words. Some people like hearing themselves talk; I on the other hand like to know my thought process is beneficial to someone and then see those thoughts live on in print. Whether that serves a creative benefit, a profitable benefit, or both, I don’t care. However, my first love does follow the path of being creative. But if I can bring my simple love of writing into my everyday world in more than just my “after hours,” that would be sublime. So—in advance, I’m thankful for the future. J

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #100

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I am thankful for this 100^th day of thanksgiving for all that God has provided. I am especially thankful for all the ways He provides confirmation of the answers that He wants me to receive. Like last night, when a woman from my class provided me confirmation about something I did not know God was trying to show me about a month ago during my prayer time. I was so frustrated with my chronic sinus issue and I did not realize that what I thought at the time was a distraction from my prayer time was actually God providing me an answer. During the time I thought I should have focused on talking to God, I found myself surfing the internet from my phone and then coming upon on a site about pressure points for my sinuses. I felt like such a rotten person that morning because I thought I had lost focus using that time to try some of the graphical demonstrations, receiving some relief at that very moment with my sinuses. I saved the page to my phone and intended to revisit the page later but never did. I honestly thought I would just be wasting my time and had indeed wasted precious prayer time. Little did I know that two weeks ago I would be attending an essential oils party that talked a little about reflexology and then last night one of my prayer class attendees would present reflexology as an option to me for my sinuses. I normally get my confirmations in three's and last night was the third confirmation.

So what confirmations have you received? Have you thanked God for them?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #99

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

As I look forward to the coming week, I am appreciative that I get to work from home the first business day of every month. If it is the end of a quarter, I get to work from home the first two business days of every month. Yes, I get to use those days working on month end and quarter end reports. I have done this for the past three years. That is a privilege, especially considering the long drive from Florissant to downtown every day. Therefore, I do not take it for granted.

Often, we receive privileges and we do not pause to be grateful for them. If we do give thanks, in the same breath that we are saying we are grateful we are saying  what else should be happening for us or “I wish…” Let “us” start spending more time giving thought to what “we” can do for someone else. Let “us” think about what is it that “we” are not willing to relinquish in our lives and how “we” can be vessels in every aspect of our lives for God. Let us stop letting our minds just runaway with “what else” we think we need or want.

“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.” (Matthew 6:33 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #98

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Yesterday I was reflecting back on how repeatedly God has proven His faithfulness to me in providing for all of my needs. I recognize the difference between needs and wants. I know that anything that I have thought I needed that He has not yet provided has proven to be something that I do not “actually” need at this time. I have survived without it; obviously, I did not REALLY need it…yet. J Therefore, I just simply thank Him today for meeting my needs and helping me to be mature enough to recognize and accept the difference.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #97

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Though I am constantly growing, as we all are, I am thankful for my ability to stand firm in what I believe and not give in to peer pressure that is in direct opposition to who I am. It is much easier to just go with the flow or go with the crowd than stick out like a sore thumb. However, the further along I get in my faith, I find it much harder to deal with the inner turmoil of knowing that I am going against my own personal convictions. I am grateful for that inner turmoil; it keeps me in check. It is amazing how after you get older and look back on all the pressures you have overcome that you never realized the magnitude of the pressures that would still await you. What is the saying, “New levels, new demons?”

I am just going to leave this tidbit:

And consider the patience of our Lord [His delay in judging and avenging wrongs] as salvation [that is, allowing time for more to be saved]; just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given to him [by God], speaking about these things as he does in all of his letters. In which there are some things that are difficult to understand, which the untaught and unstable [who have fallen into error] twist and misinterpret, just as they do the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. Therefore, [let me warn you] beloved, knowing these things beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men [who distort doctrine] and fall from your own steadfastness [of mind, knowledge, truth, and faith], but grow [spiritually mature] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory (honor, majesty, splendor), both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (II Peter 3:15-18 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #96

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Billie Blanks, Allie Del Rio Pointer, Jennifer Carman, Jillian Michaels, Alberto "Beto" Perez, Tony Horton, Shawn T, and Leslie Sansone. These have been my “at-home” physical trainers. These are just SOME of the names that have been responsible for helping get me away from and keep me away from that over 200 arena of weight where I once resided. I am SO thankful for the people who have made workout DVDs for women like me who would never bring themselves to commit to being that overweight female in the gym with a bunch of Barbie dolls. It is so fun being able to change up what routine I want to do for the day in the comfort of my own home. In addition, if I am having some rushed mornings where I can’t get my workout in, my physical trainers are on my DVD; no one yelling at me! LOL!

Yes, I am thankful for the little things that are not so little anymore when you are without them!

 

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #95

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I was in the bit of a slump driving home from work last night and I was trying everything to get my thoughts lifted from that place in my head. I was meditating on promises in God’s Word and words that reminded me of who I am. I filled the car with music that would speak to my soul. It was very effective in not allowing me to sink deeper but honestly there was still a bit of heaviness on my mind. I remember looking at the sky thinking, ‘if maybe I could see a little sun…’ Anyway, I got to my driveway, got out of the car to get my mail and noticed mail from a relative whose call I’d been repeatedly missing. I opened it there in my garage and instantaneously the heaviness I felt was like smoke—POOF! It was gone. It’s amazing how the words on a page and a picture can quickly plaster a smile across your face and your heart. All of a sudden, it was like the heaviness I was dragging with me from work seemed so trivial. Perspective—that is what this letter had given me. Just clear and simple perspective. And I’m thankful because I know God sent it at just the right time.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #94

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am just thankful for the favor God has placed on my life with others. That is not arrogance; it is just sincere appreciation for being able to see that when you have invested years of aiming to do what is right in the face of adversity, others are paying attention to your “character.” Sometimes people can say all the “right things” and put on a good front, but when you look at how they are living, something does not quite measure up. So, if God has favored you with others, do not be ashamed to express your gratefulness to God for what He has and is doing in your life. The best way you can express to Him your gratefulness is with how you live your life for Him.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #93

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Today I am just thankful for the simplest things in my life. I appreciate past co-workers who introduced me to my love of candles, particularly scented candles. I am thankful for earrings, especially the hoops when I want a sassy look. I love the classiness of bracelets, especially the “clacking” ones that must annoy certain people because they make a comment about hearing me coming. Note to self—wear the bracelets on Jean Friday that annoy….   Just kidding! I am thankful for beautiful wedge heel shoes; as I get older I am convinced a man designed those shoes that have you on your tiptoe or only the balls of your feet with only a “stick” to prop you up. However, I do still love to wear them on occasion. Most of all, I am thankful for the Holy Spirit that lives on the inside of me, daily recreating me from the inside out. The best gift in life I could ever have.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #92

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

I spoke about transparency back on day 79 and my gratefulness for finding it in others. Through the transparency of others, I have received comfort. Through the transparency of others, I have received aid in finding the road to deliverance. When we are transparent, we help people in ways we could never imagine. Because I am “dying every day” to self, my aim in life is to allow God to use me in ways he so chooses without worrying about what others think of me.

Speaking of transparency, maybe this can help someone. How many times have you heard someone say in regards to a relationship, “I didn’t see that side of them when we were dating,” or “I just had no idea what to expect.” I was always a firm believer they had to be lying. That person cannot claim to have the Spirit of God and not know. I can more believe that they knew or had warning but did not want to accept the truth. Some years ago, there was a man that had gripped my heart before I had even met the man in person (we were getting to know each other long distance). Maybe about a month before I met him in person I had a dream about him. It appeared in the dream that he and I were probably standing in a kitchen with moving boxes along with someone at the time I thought to be maybe his mother in the dream. I had never met her. Something very alarming in the dream is that when this beautiful specimen talked I saw he had the tongue of a snake (looks will trip you up). Are you thinking what I think you are thinking? You probably are. Anyway, I kept that dream to myself and just tried to bury it in my subconscious as just something crazy. Within the first year of getting to know him, we had seen each other twice. It was at this point that I was no longer even listening to the Spirit within. I was just rebellious. After about a year, I broke it off because I knew the relationship was just wrong from the beginning; not even considering that crazy dream that still in my mind meant nothing. (The details are perhaps “transparency” for another time. J )

Almost every year he would call (our birthdays were a day apart). You know I was a “back pocket” girl—right? At some point, there was a break in our yearly communication. About 7 years later we started back communicating; I have to admit I was the culprit in reaching out (those spiritual ties are so real—BREAK THEM). After 7 years I took a trip that to my surprise allowed me to meet his sister for the first time—his older sister. Remember the dream with his snake tongue and the woman I just assumed to be his mom? You guessed it! The woman in my dream was his sister! Even then, I still did not want to believe this person was a beautiful specimen of a liar. It was not just the dream, there were plenty of indications but I made excuses because after all on plenty of occasions he said the words, “I love you.” I have told you before that sometimes “Charlotte” annoys the heck out of me. Yes, sometimes I write about myself in the third person. I am a writer—what else do you expect of me? Anyway, after that trip things came to the surface that released me from that 7-year dark spiritual tie. It was as if God said, “Here is my grace showing you the other piece of the puzzle. I am trying to help you. What are you going to do with what I’ve shown you?”

Sadly, people go on to make detrimental life commitments and hold on to, “I didn’t know.” If anyone is transparent with you when it comes to “any” type of decision you are planning to make in life, thank God for them. Not everyone is trying to hide things or make you think they have never had to overcome something.

If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].  (I John 1:9 Amplified)

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #91

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Have you ever felt like you were just so out of sort one day and had no idea why? Have you ever felt emotionally drained and like you just needed to hibernate just for a day? Have you ever had a person, or something you read come along at the right time to lift you out of that rut? Yes, I have too. I am thankful for those people and those mediums that are within reach just when I need them. We should really cherish those avenues of encouragement and uplifting. Never take that gift for granted.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #90

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

A couple days ago, I mentioned my father’s death when I was five years old, right? Well, another memory involving my father hit me last night. I remember my mama always referring to him as “Sweetie.” So, of course at that young age I thought that was the man’s name. LOL! He died when I was five so this memory comes from that last year or prior. Yep, I thought “Sweetie” was my dad’s name until one day I heard him call my mama “Sweetie.” Oh Lawd! You mean his name is not Sweetie?? I do not know what went through my mind after this or how I processed it, but I remember my little brain being confused that both their names were “Sweetie.” Though I had my father in my life a very, very short time I’m grateful that I grew up remembering that at one time I thought his name was Sweetie instead of Mother-something, Punk-something or some other derogatory name.

Be thankful for the words your parent(s) planted around you as a child. Not every child has grown up or can grow up without having the wrong things implanted in their little brains. Nevertheless, if you were not so fortunate, what does your child or grandchild hear you call their mom or dad? I am a witness, kids may remember very little that occurred before a certain age in life, but some things do stick.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #89

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

This morning I am thankful for the ability to laugh when to the world I should be crying. This morning I am thankful for the resource “of income” while some trap themselves in discontentment because of the unfavorable resource. This morning I am thankful for the car I have to drive with no car note while some will keep wishing they had the latest model. Today I am thankful because when I look in the mirror I genuinely like the person I see. Sometimes she can be analytical but she is gentle. Sometimes she has less patience than she desires but she is apologetic. Sometimes she will disagree with your view but she is one of the best encouragers you will ever want to meet. At times, she may come across as very quiet and unassuming but she knows herself. Even though sometimes she really annoys the heck out of me, each day I like her just a little bit more because I’m learning more about her. Growing up with her, I had no idea that secretly she was a tough little cookie.

So are you thankful for that reflection you look at every day?

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #88

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

Daddy's Glass

I am thankful for each day we have capacity to hold memories of our deceased friends and loved ones.  It will soon be 40 years since my dad died (October 28th) but I still hold the memory of him coming home from work each evening. My older sister and I would run down the hall to the front door where he would enter and jump on him. I remember my mom always serving him his dinner plate on a silver tray in our living room. This was no ordinary tray; I recall etchings of a "paisley-like" design that could be seen and felt on the surface and upraised designed edges. I recall the chair he sat in was next to the one big window in our living room right above the radiator (oh the pain if you accidentally let your skin rest on that thing when it was on during the cold months). One very vivid memory that always stuck with me was a signature glass that she always used to serve him his beverage. The glass always mesmerized me because of the iridescent colors. In my mind, it was “daddy’s glass.” It is funny how I never realized until after daddy died that there were two of these mesmerizing glasses. I was 5 years old when he died so I guess I didn’t know because I was never getting anything out of the cabinet to know what was or wasn’t there. Nevertheless, I do know that I never recalled my mom drinking out “daddy’s glass” or a glass that looked like daddy’s glass.

It was just a few years ago that I was over at my younger sister and mom’s house; we were talking about some memories. I brought up my observation about how that iridescent glass was the only glass from which I saw daddy drink. I also mentioned how I liked the colors and never realized until much later that there were two of these glasses. One of them had gotten broken somehow later after his death. I wondered which one was the glass that belonged to him. Thinking back on it now, they both looked alike so he may have used them both. J Nevertheless, it was not until this conversation that my mom knew the impact of me still seeing this one iridescent glass. She let me have it (tears). I try my best to guard that glass with my life, especially when I drink from it. Thank you Charlie Reen Beard (daddy) for my memories and the glass.

Days of PURPOSEFUL Thankfulness – Day #87

Note: Refer to day number 1 (July 25, 2015 post) if you do not know what this is all about.

All my readers should know that I am thankful for YOU! Yes, all of you who take time to read what I have to write. Everything we do in life impacts something or someone and you should know that about yourself today as you go about your day. Yes, everything you do has an impact. If you do something wrong, there is an impact. If you do something right—there is an impact. So, be thankful that your life does leave an impression. What kind of impression your life leaves is totally up to you. You and I choose what we want our lives to reflect. Whether we want to face it or not we have a great responsibility.

I am so grateful that God entrusts me with the responsibilities that He gives me on a daily basis. Those things that I do in this body while I am wearing the name “Christian” I take very seriously. No, I am not perfect but I believe the “namesake” I wear should be powerful enough to call me to staying in “right standing.” My humanity never gives me the right to forget who I am and lose sight of the picture I am painting with my words. So, thank you! Thank you for allowing my words to take residence in some part of your brain. In addition, if you come across something I write that you find you cannot “chew” hopefully you can eat the fish (the real substance in what I write) and spit out the bones.