The joys of living and working in a non-toxic environment

We hear so much about work/life balance in the workplace.  Companies are rated on how employee-centered they are.  It's a good thing.

I'm at the point in my life where my stress level is low - and I've been intentional about creating the safe, no stress zone in which I both live and work. 

My husband and I, thankfully, are on the same page when it comes to reducing stress, eliminating drama, and just overall enjoying the peace that we've established in our home.  We both know what we won't tolerate, and what I've found out - at our ages, those annoying things/people/conditions tend to remove themselves from you.  Drama queens and kings aren't provided a comfortable space in our lives.  

I learned, when you present yourself as a person of peace, who, when solicited, will communicate and provide peaceable solutions/advice that turns out to be the opposite of what the solicitor wanted to hear/do - they tend to leave you alone.  In the same way that it is said - the quickest way to get rid of someone who asks for a loan - is to give it to them. They show themselves for who they are - and *poof* they're gone.

My work in human services over the years has provided me with many experiences where I served the marginalized and underserved population.  The stress was high at various points.  There was anger, frustration, and sometimes, feelings of utter hopelessness.  There were times when, at the end of the day, I went home emotionally and physically drained.  I saw the suffering up close, and there were times, try as I might, that my own frustrations came to the surface.  If a client became agitated and verbally abusive - it was part of my job to help deescalate the incident - utilizing my training in Crisis Prevention Intervention.  I accepted that as business as usual.  And my skills as a mediator would kick in - and 7 times out of 10 - we were successful.

Going to work every day, knowing that on any given day you might get yelled at by a disgruntled client, or a client having a mental health crisis - takes a toll on you.  I realized at the top of 2020, that I'd become extremely sensitive to sudden outbursts, even when they weren't aimed at me.  Just being in the vicinity of the chaos was unsettling to my spirit. No one likes to be yelled at. And I don't like to hear anyone else getting cursed out and threatened.  A colleague and I were threatened with physical harm last year by a client who was diagnosed with a concurrent disorder, and was having an episode. We pressed charges.  The whole process of pressing charges was stressful, but necessary.

The time finally came when I knew I had to leave that toxic environment and seek a work space more conducive to my mental and physical well-being.  My decision was made even clearer when my coworkers and I were lined up, as if in a firing squad, and literally blown to bits - verbally - by our ED on a conference call - who, (re)acting to hearsay, distorted facts and lies - decided we were all guilty of all the charges. (Believe me, the problem raised was neither a breach of agency policy, client endangerment, negligence of duty, nor life-threatening - things for which one might be reprimanded). But it was the most vile display of bullying and disrespect I had ever witnessed. And no one was allowed to speak on their own behalf.  The ED had the entire executive team and the director of HR on their side of the call - on speaker. It was meant to humiliate and inflict fear - and force allegiance/obedience  to a decision that had been made.  OR ELSE. We were told we could submit our 30-day resignation right then if we didn't agree.  It was hateful, and sadly, laughably petty at its base.

I thought to myself - I'm not taking this from clients AND my employer.  There's not enough money on the planet for me to be abused. Period.  I remember telling my husband that there are folks in my past who had had GOOD reasons to curse me out and call me everything but a child of God - but did not.  I had received the grace I'd been given back then, and have sought to pass it on to others.

Truth be told, I'd been searching for months for other employment opportunities (I knew I wasn't long for that job). Two months later, I resigned from that toxic place.  As I left the premises, I exhaled deeply. I felt so light and so free. Today, I am free, and have absolutely no regrets.  I'm able to work as I please, doing what I love.   My new environment provides me with the work/life balance and the peace of mind I require. I am recognized as the professional that I am, and my work is appreciated. There is mutual respect, and support. There is no one yelling, accusing, misrepresenting, lying or bullying me in my current space. There will never be an occasion for that to happen again. The environment is far too chill for that!

My home life is calm and beautiful. I firmly believe you can create your own heaven right here on earth - where there's love and peace at home.  You need only to communicate honestly, openly with your partner, and be intentional with your actions when establishing your safe, stress free environment. I won't lie - it takes work and time. For some, conciliation is a gift. However,  where one partner may have the gift and be skilled, both  partners must be willing.  Even arguments are handled well - and settled quickly because - both parties want to protect the peace!

I've purposed in my heart that, going forward, my space and my environment will always welcome others who are like-minded. Toxic vibes and drama are strictly forbidden over here!

Be well! Protect your mental health! Stay safe!

I Came Back to Let You Know (Change Is Here)

I'm watching my grown children react to these continuing atrocities against our skin color in 2020. And I'm proud of the way their activism and advocacy for human rights for black people is manifesting in their lives.  This is for all the marbles - and I'm so glad to see the curtain pulled back, the wool removed from eyes that haven't seen or wanted to see - and the solidarity from every nation, kindred, tongue and people all over the world!

These are unprecedented times we are living in. I've been hoping and praying this day would come. And against the backdrop of an incompetent president, an ailing economy due to the COVID-19 pandemic - these heinous crimes against black bodies, perpetrated by racist whites (police and others), provide the perfect storm for the protests, riots - and finally, the justice that is long overdue. 

I'm happy to see this in my lifetime. The joining of forces between peoples of all ethnic groups, backgrounds and walks of life, brings me the sense of peace that there will be a better world for my grandchildren. That, at the very least, racial profiling and police brutality - and even microaggressions against blacks/people of color - will NOT be tolerated or shrugged off, as before. 

As a parent of black children, I had to educate them about the hatred they'd have to endure simply because their skin is brown - and how to navigate through systemic racism. It pained me when I thought of how just having to teach my kids what I call "racial self defense" - in order to "get along" at school - was not what I imagined we'd have to do when we started our family. It was not only not OK, but it was not something white parents had to think about.  To know that it was my duty as a black parent to protect my children as best I could by telling them things that children should not have to be concerned about - because other children were being taught to hate by their parents - sickened me.  Their father and I could not, as responsible, loving parents, let them go out into the world without the knowledge that there would be some people who would actually mean them, and do them harm... 

And harmed, they were. Emotionally, mentally.  It was like it was a part of their birthright - because their father and I, too, were discriminated against as children, and their grandparents and great grandparents before us. So, they were also harmed -because they are black in a majority white society (that is getting browner by the day, by the way, and subject for another discussion).  And today, they each have stories they are sharing - that their former classmates (white) are reading about on social media - seeing the way life was/is for them for the first time. 

I am proud of my children because, though they internalized these incidents of discrimination and hatred because of strong faith and familial support - they have had an acute awareness and have spoken out against injustice since they were teenagers. I'm saying I am proud that they utilized their coping skills through all of the madness, because what they did not do - what black people are generally "expected" to do and goaded into doing - is react - hate for hate; retaliate - destroy. My son's experiences were disturbingly different from his sisters'. He was tested and tried far more viciously as a black male and could have been another statistic. But God! All in all, the three of them never became that overused label "angry black..."  as if black people don't have a reason or a right to be angry.  [Make no mistake - we be angry, though.]

What they have become are educated, law-abiding, responsible, and responsive adults.  They reject the status quo, and are making their voices heard.  They are showing up and raising the awareness where there is ignorance. They are boldly calling out racists and using their platforms to edify those who want to know.  And they are providing solutions.

I'm proud of them. Their father would be proud, too. He would be happy to see this day. And although I have hope that this wave of change will do major damage to the antiquated racist systems, evil policies and inequitable practices in the criminal justice system  - I do know that dark days are still ahead.  Ah... but this light I'm seeing at the end of this particular tunnel, at this particular time in history is the breaking of a new day.  There is a shift in the atmosphere, an alignment of millions of conscious minds who stand together in agreement. The power surge is palpable.

Change is here. And not a moment too soon.

#BlackLivesMatter

Famous Last Words

Well - for sure the words in this post will be far from famous, but they are my last under the moniker The Woman In My Attic. I finally read the email from the good folks at Google+ - about how these pages are shutting down and will be no more as of April 2, 2019. They say it's due to poor usage and lack of maintenance, etc. I can't argue with that.

But what I will say is - for me - sharing my thoughts openly this way has been a life-saving experience. And the closing of this chapter of my writing life might really push me forward to writing my next book. And who knows? There may be even more books inside me after this!

I came to this blogspot in 2011 - but, it wasn't my first try at blogging. This was my third attempt, and I titled my very first post For the Third Time .  Yes, actually, I'd tried to blog as early as 2009, when my late husband was still alive; and even opened an account for him as we sought to start our online Bible ministry. Bro. Wynn was a great thinker and teacher. It took me several months to come back to this - to somehow carry on with the plan without him. It morphed into a different kind of passion, and writing in this way allowed me to formulate my views, strengthen my own beliefs and share what I've learned.

The page also helped me maintain my sanity - writing has always been a cathartic release for me. But most of all, my hope is that someone out there was encouraged by something I said over these nearly 8 years.  I pray that seeds were planted, hearts were touched, and healing took place...or curiosity was piqued to know more about the LOVE of God; I hope someone was motivated to seek the truth - for themselves.

I'm choosing to call it a day two months before they shut it down. They say photos not backed up will be lost, so on and so forth.  However, as long as the url is alive - I hope you'll tell a friend to come on over and have a read.

In my experience as a lifetime reader and a longtime writer - you never, ever forget the words that gave you pause, courage, joy and hope!

May God bless and keep you, and give you peace!

Bridget G. Wynn Edwards
Pilgrim Journey

Jesus Didn't Name His Followers "Christians"

But don't take my word for it.  

It's written in the Bible when and where the disciples were given that name. In Acts 11:26, believers in Jesus Christ were referred to as Christians. And, it wasn't given as a compliment, but as a harsh nickname.

Jesus referred to those who followed His teachings as His disciples, and gave the great commission to the twelve to go, and make disciples of all people (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15).

What has happened during the 2000 years since Christ's time on earth has been nothing short of incredible. I use incredible for sheer lack of a better, more descriptive word - and it's not positive. But it bears my overall view of the blasphemous actions that have been perpetrated against human beings broadly, in the name of Christianity,and more specifically, in the name of Jesus for centuries.

Because of the vast discrepancies between what "Christians" do/have done and what the Bible actually teaches, I have struggled with whether or not to identify myself as a Christian.  The teachings of Christ and what has been taught in the modern day church that bears His name, are far from each other.  What I've discovered is, many people don't know this because they get all of their "Bible" from the pulpit.

I came to terms with not needing a label years ago and divorced myself from denominational-ism. Just couldn't find any one of the hundreds listed in Scripture. Instead, I focused on what Jesus said about the characteristics of His true church. And there are many references. One of my favorites is found in John 15. Jesus is the vine, and His believers, are the branches...and He has chosen us to bear good fruit...and we are to love one another! WOW! Further, through the Apostle Paul in Galatians 5, we are given the actual attributes of the fruit... the fruits of the Spirit (the Comforter who also teaches us and provides us with the power to do the will of God); verses 22-26 breaks it down:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. (New International Version)

Focusing on what Jesus said, through the Holy Scriptures, has helped me move beyond traditions that have no meaning, and practices that do not demonstrate the Love of Christ. I have come to the conclusion, through my own study of the Word as I have sought the truth, in the face of all the falsehoods that are still being preached from pulpits - where congregations uphold and worship men and material goods and are encouraged to do so because they've been hypnotized into believing these "spiritual leaders" are appointed by God - that I'm simply a believer in Jesus the Christ who taught us to love one another. 

So Christians don't necessarily have to love one another, or follow the teachings of love thy neighbor as themselves, or doing unto others as they would have others do unto them. Their actual origins are false. Man made. Or, at the very least, they have gone astray.  But if anyone reading is interested, the good news is - it's not too late to get back on track. 

If you're interested in following Christ, you will probably have to leave your comfort zone. And you MUST study for yourself, and pray for the Spirit of the Living God to guide you. You might be criticized, and worse. But that's how you'll absolutely know you're headed in the right direction.

But don't take my word for it. (John 15: 18-25)

Today, and Forever - Let there be Love!

The devotional calendar - appropriate for today & forever!

There are probably a million verses that tell of the infinite lifespan of love, when love is real.

I've learned, happily, that love - true love - never dies. And at the risk of sounding trite, I can testify that love breathes on through us and those we bring into this world and others we  touch. In fact, love multiplies!

I am a student of this thing. I'm also a teacher and facilitator - a mediator, a person who seeks to sprinkle in exact proportions, the love and knowledge of love to others as they have need.

I can't say enough about love - I am today, and every day, full of it! Grateful to have had copious amounts of love throughout my 6 plus decades on this planet, even during times when I didn't appreciate it. Humbled because, my God! I know I am so unworthy!

As broken as I am in the flesh, I stand with my head held high because I am whole in the Spirit! I recognize the Power that allows me to stand - is Divine. And my gratitude today is heightened by the memory of the dear soul, the late, great, R. Lamont Wynn, whom God sent in human form to woo and ask me for my hand over forty years ago. We married on this date, in 1979. It was Super Bowl XIII (Pittsburgh Steelers 35, Dallas Cowboys 31)!!

When I reflect on the 31 years, 3 months and 18 days we shared as husband and wife, all I can do is smile. I learned  of the wonderful, complex, intricate, awesome and sometimes mysterious ways of Love - God's Love - through that union. Please believe me that love and loving is better, stronger, and freer because of the peace and joy I have within. Because of the Love I receive beyond measure daily - from the Original Lover of my soul!

There is no disappointment too great, no sorrow or burden too heavy, and nothing that cannot be forgiven when there is love everlasting, rejuvenating, regenerating and replenishing the heart, mind, body and soul.  I pray love everlasting for all!

Something We Can Do to Increase Love in 2019

"Day Ones" and "Riders"

In today's speak, your  'A-1 from Day 1' or 'Rider' (as in ride or die) is a best  friend from the start - until the wheels fall off. I've written elsewhere in this blog about my ever-evolving understanding of myself and my friendships over the years. And I have amassed quite a number of friends throughout my life.

But there was a moment, coming upon five years ago, when I realized who my real friends are. My father was ill for a brief time at the end of 2014, and died in January of 2015. I had moved to the east coast and most of my friends and family were on the west coast. During the days before my father's memorial service when people typically gather in support of the family, we were surrounded by beloved friends and family. They were so loving, and took care of my mother and us.

It wasn't until afterward, when my husband asked me about the absence of some specific individuals who were my friends - that I realized something I hadn't even thought of:  my actual Day Ones had shown up for me and my family in our time of bereavement. Friends I'd known for over 40 years - college roommates and classmates from elementary and high school. People with whom I hadn't even been in constant communication; some only via social media - some via their spouses who are on social media. These wonderful folks rallied when my family needed them, and came all the way through.

Their love and devotion through the years cannot be quantified, and I can't thank them enough. Nothing is more precious than friends who truly stand by you, defying the separation of space and the passing of time, under any circumstance. So when I reflected on my husband's query - about the folks who were missing, who knew and had had fellowship with my father and mother - who knew that my father had passed away, I had this revelation: the people with me here now, will be with me for the whole ride.

I'm grateful. And I declare that I'm a rider for each of them!

This Season in which We are Living

Boaz Ministries

In our experience at Boaz Ministries, we find that intentional communion with the Lord is a powerful thing. As believers we not only have the blessed assurance that God is real - we also have clear, irrefutable proof that He moves in our lives. Each of us has a testimony of His grace, mercy and love - transforming lives and changing hearts - handling situations in circumstances that seemed impossible. God is mighty!

This season, as we move into the new year - let us pray for a deeper connection with our Lord. In a world where there is no peace and very little love for humankind, let us draw closer to Him, to loved ones, and people we meet. Let us be intentional change agents in our communities, brighten the corners where we are, spread love, and the message of hope. For there is hope. If you've been praying about starting an outreach or in-reach in your community or church - go for it! Or join in the work the Lord is already doing through other change agents. You will know them by their character. Don't be discouraged by obstacles, and don't expect things to be easy - serving others isn't convenient. But when God is involved - He gives us His strength.

We've been given talents and treasure - and while we yet have breath, we still have time. Let us use our time in service to those who are suffering, abandoned, abused and under served. This is the whole message of the gospel of Jesus. It's always been about love, and there is no law against it (see Galatians 5:22-23).

It's Just Not Safe Out Here Anymore...

It probably never was, really. Safe, that is. There was a time when we as human beings, and our "things" were saf-ER. But today, as 2018 comes to a close - the curtain is pulled back, and the man is exposed, the wool once covering our eyes is fully off, and what I declare today is - the times we live in are full of evil!

Thanks to modern technology I've been hacked a few times. There have been attempts to steal my identity. I, and my family, have been the victims of ongoing scams and crooked schemes that seem to get more and more outrageous - and more easy to identify at the same time. Just for giggles, seems like these unfortunate minions lived to harass, humiliate and frighten me and my loved ones, besmirch my name - to extort money - to trick me, try to bleed me dry (but I am not wealthy) and leave my whole life, credit and whatever reputation I have in complete shambles! With no success.

In my observation, there seems to be an increase of soulless individuals - demons - whose only purpose in their miserable lives is to use their brains to discredit, manipulate and harm others. All for filthy lucre. *money*  I used to say that these folks could do so much with their imaginations to make positive moves and do good in the world...and get a legitimate paycheck. But legitimate is not what they want. They love the shadows, they love the darkness - and they ENJOY hurting others.

They work for the devil himself. And they work feverishly around the clock to devise more devious ways to ruin peoples' lives! I report everything that's suspicious. And I pity these folks in the Day of Judgment.

I pray for protection from the evil in this world daily. I have no fear. And I live my life with the assurance that God's got me, my family, friends and loved ones. My God is greater than anything and everything out there. I'm safe in Him and He continues to block the attacks against me and the ones I love. But for those who have no spiritual protection in this wicked world - I urge to get sheltered in the Lord... because it's just not safe out here anymore!

#AWynnforDBowe

Mr. and Mrs. Derek C. Bowe, Jr.

My second daughter got married Sunday, November 11!
We are overjoyed to welcome another wonderful young man of God into our family!

Blessings upon the newlyweds as they begin their journey of marital love. The Lord has smiled upon them - I am a witness of His faithfulness in answering my fervent prayers for my children.

God is great! God is real!

Amen!

Proud brother, escorting his sister down the aisle.

The Family of God is Boundless!

My beautiful bonus daughter (with child) and her beautiful mom!

Our family continues to grow, as God has ordained!

Along this journey, and for the past six years I've been blessed with even more extended and blended family than I could have ever hoped for. It is humbling for me to see the hand of God moving so mightily in life situations that we as human beings would deem awkward or even impossible.

God is able!

Because of who He is, God has blessed me with two incredible women, mother and daughter, and I am honored to know them. Nothing is by coincidence in God's plan. And as a believer, I know that ALL things work together for good to them that love God...(Romans 8:28). And  everything, great and small - in my life thus far - God uses for His glory!

Just sharing from my heart, the grace and mercy God has shown me through two exceptional ladies who, by God's love and power, are part of my ever expanding family! His family!

Amen!

My purpose on the planet

"Pilgrim Journey", 2018

In my observation, we spend a great deal of time stumbling around, ignorant of the very concept of  a "life purpose". All of us, at some point (or at several points) have that existential moment - "why am I here?" I've certainly questioned why I'm living and breathing in this skin - the daughter of Don and Anna, granddaughter of John and Mary Alyce, and William Vernon and Laura Etta.

"Who am I and what am I supposed to do?"  During my formative years, all I knew to do was what I was told. And I was fairly obedient to my parents - as the first child - I tried to please them as much as possible. But I was always curious, and, admittedly, precocious - though never to the extent of scandal, embarrassment, or the ruination of my family's reputation.

Circa 1961

I was pleasant and easy-going - likable. Those who did not like me thought I was snooty, uppity (what I was told by black and white, alike) - which I later took to mean I had confidence in myself. However, even though my persona portrayed self-assurance and politeness -within, I had no clue about my ultimate role in life- beyond going to college and one day being a wife and mother. And singing alto in the choir.

It wasn't until I was re-baptized at the age of 38  (I was ll years old when first baptized), after attending an old-fashioned, down home tent revival - that pieces of the puzzle of my life began to come together. I knew that God had called me out. For what, I didn't know at the time. But what a ride that became! Just as I made my covenant to serve the Lord - all hell broke loose! I recognized  - in all honesty - that the enemy was losing one of his best 'double agents', and he wasn't happy about it!  When all was supposed to be bright and beautiful as a new creature in Christ, I experienced a "dark period". It was  "low key" and out of the public eye; but the struggle to shake the devil off was real, and lasted a good 10 years.

In my work in social services and later, in the ministries in which I participated, it became clearer to me why I was born, and how God would get the glory through my testimony.  While working at a County agency, I met a client, who, after attending my orientation, came to my desk for the intake process. I shall never forget this encounter:

She was a middle aged white woman who I thought was mean, judging from the scowl she wore during my class - so I was a bit apprehensive. When she began to speak, her voice was soft and pleasant, and startled me. After gathering pertinent information from her, she said, "I've been watching you, you might have noticed. And I have a word for you. The Holy Spirit told me to tell you that you are here, in this place, to set the captives free. Not just us - the clients. But everyone. Your coworkers, your friends, strangers, everyone. God gave you this assignment, and He'll give you the power to do what He's put before you."

I was dumbfounded. I was 42 years old at the time, married with 3 children, and had been through a lot - two steps forward, five steps backward - the whole nine. Truth be told, I wouldn't usually listen when folks say what the spirit told them (skeptical of which spirit, you see), but I took to heart what she told me. There was something sincere about her, in complete contrast to her outward appearance. Throughout the years  I'd recall her prophetic words, just to measure the distance from then to the current time, and in times of transitions in my life. 20 years have passed since I met that lady. I'm able to say that all of my ups and downs and twists and turns have molded and made me into the soldier in God's army that He called me to be.

The Lord continues to make, mold, break, build, lead, guide me and He is faithful to His promises. 
There is a special sense of peace, joy and satisfaction when we finally know why we're here. We can ask - and He will answer. I can look back on my very crooked path and see the wisdom in the series of events, and the choices that made no sense at the time.

Happiness is knowing God chose us first. My purpose is ministry - everywhere I go, and in every aspect of my life. The Lord and I are in a deep, committed, love relationship. I'm here to introduce others to this amazing Love; to make eternal connections with those who are also on this pilgrim journey. As a believer, there is no higher purpose, and I'm here to put in work for the duration of the time He's given me on this earthly plane.

My nieces at my book signing at B&N, 2006
Singing in the choir at my father's memorial service, 2015
CD cover of Revived! Ministries' sole album, dedicated to RL Wynn, 2010
Reading "Come, Joy! Songs from the soft of night" at B&N, 2006

We will give an account

There's an old Spiritual, "You Better Mind" - and in the short version, the words go like this:

Chorus: Oh you better mind, you better mind
You got to give an account in the judgment, you better mind -

You better mind how you talk, you better mind what you're talking about, you got to give an account in the judgment, you better mind

You better mind how you walk, you better mind where you're walking to, for you got to give an account in the judgment, you better mind

My original thought for today had to do with the journey, the steps we take toward sisterhood, brotherhood - steps we take to draw closer to Christ. And I went to the Word in search of texts that speak to just how we're to behave toward one another.

As one who writes - I know that words are powerful. I also teach/facilitate in my profession. So I am ever aware of how important it is for me to not only articulate the materials I'm imparting clearly to those listening - but to also be mindful of HOW I say what I say; my voice inflections, my body language - all of that. I am responsible for providing an atmosphere free of tension, contention, drama, etc. It's serious.  I respect my role, and the people I stand before and interact with daily. I watch what I say, and make sure to avoid idle gossip. However, there are days when I miss the mark and make a snide or negative comment.  But - I always remember what the Word says...and God reins in my tongue. It's getting to the point where an ugly thought that becomes verbal, stays "under my breath" - and I've learned to repent of the thought and the words immediately. Dr. Charles Stanley teaches on that - when the sinner rebukes the sin and repents of it right then and there - the Holy Spirit is working, and empowers the individual to gain the victory over that sin. I've tried it - every time - and it's true.  Once upon a time, I was a huge gossiper - my mouth, a part of many hurtful situations in the past.  Today, there's not a tale I will hear nor carry to besmirch the name of another person.  The Lord has even worked things out where I've been able to ask forgiveness of the persons I've hurt due to my tongue and deeds. My life's work has become about conciliation, reconciliation and restoration, where possible.

Some context from Matthew 12:33-37, Jesus said:

"33 A tree is identified by its fruit. A tree from a select variety produces good fruit; poor varieties don’t. 34 You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For a man’s heart determines his speech. 35 A good man’s speech reveals the rich treasures within him. An evil-hearted man is filled with venom, and his speech reveals it. 36 And I tell you this, that you must give account on Judgment Day for every idle word you speak. 37 Your words now reflect your fate then: either you will be justified by them or you will be condemned.”

This journey is full of lessons, pitfalls, mountain peak experiences, pain - and as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ - all for the blessing of our own souls and the souls of others we touch along our path. I am careful to represent the One who has set me free. Free from doing things unbecoming a soldier in God's army - free from the desire to partake in ungodly activities. He's lifted me, literally, out of the muck and mire of my former self - and He's still molding me.

Beloved, let's mind what we say and do.

Step Out - Live Your Best Life!

Nothing too fancy
no need to do too much
just some wine and dine
a lil jazz and such

Folks always say
"the best is yet to come"
so step on out there now
go on and get you some!

Mon Fils Unique

Jonathan L. Wynn and me

My only son -

The bond between mother and son is indescribable. And coming from a family where the majority are women on my mother's side - and my first two children are girls - I was unprepared for the emotional power surge I felt when my only son was born.  He was the last one, but in no way is he the least.

Jonathan and his late father were very close; they were quite a duo. And when his sisters were off doing things with their friends, people often thought he was an only child because of the way he interacted with his father and me. He enjoyed being with the "old folks". He was easy to love as a boy. And as a man, he is still personable and kind.

Parents look to their sons to carry the family name forward. It is a thing of pride, and an honor to witness the family line growing - to be part of creating a legacy. When I think of this young man, my gift from the Lord, my heart swells with gratitude. He embodies all that was best in his father, and he bears a strong resemblance to my late father. The Lord's doing - and it is marvelous!

I embrace the bond I have with my son with full respect for his manhood and individuality.  I know the Lord is preparing him for that unique woman, the only one, for him.

Amen.

"Jon"

Psalm 119

Boaz Ministries

Psalm 119 

Recently, Mr. E and I were meditating on the 119th division of the Psalms. One of the key messages that comes through over and over, is first and foremost, the counsel, guidance, direction and precepts of God's Word must be sought with our whole hearts. Opening our minds and hearts to the statutes/teachings of the Lord, directs our steps. Trusting in the Word of God, anchors us when everything around us is unstable. We can have peace, security, assurance - and hope, because God has always come through. 

There are many popular Bible verses from Psalm 119; I will share a few more for your meditation: Ps. 119:1-3; 9; 11; 50; 103;105; 133; 165. 

The study of Psalm 119 is a complete meal, nourishing the soul, encouraging the heart, and opening the mind - the appetite - for more, and more.It's GOOD! But don't just take my word for it!

Family Time - Summertime

 Wineries, etc., Northern California, 2018

Bridges, Northern California, 2018

I'm learning how to really do work/life balance. With a retired mister who is also an entrepreneur and musician - it's an added incentive for me to carve out as much "us/me time" as I can.  And it's working.


Blessed to be able to do this because my employer is 100% in support of self care and vacation time! AND teleworking! Whether it's a "stay-cation", "mental health day", or a trip to a tropical paradise - I'm grateful to the Lord for the latitude and creativity my job affords me. 

Enjoying life!


#positiveseniority

#fitnessmatters

#sixtyplus                                                 
   

Venice Beach, SoCal, 2018

                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Soundtrack of My Life

Over the past few days I’ve been on social media, reading the beautiful, moving tributes to Aretha Franklin, The Queen of Soul, who left this earthly plane on August 16. To every post I read, all I could reply was “Amen”, or click the *heart* icon. I was speechless, and dealing with the “tender emotions” I now experience when someone dies - no matter who it is.

I chose this picture of Ms. Franklin from the thousands on the internet - because it’s from 1967, when “RESPECT” was released. That singular word informed the mind and heart of a then 11 year old Black girl in a profound, finger-snapping way, and was the sealant for what my parents had been instilling within me. My schoolmates and I could be seen on any given day strutting around the playground, reciting those lyrics, spelling it out. Singing joyfully. Proudly. Seeping into my subconscious, I was rehearsing RESPECT for myself, RESPECT for others - and as I got older, I began to understand the nuances of adult relationships Ms. Franklin was really singing about. Music lyrics teach us. And the winning blend of impeccable vocal and instrumental musicality made an indelible mark deep within my soul.

I want to thank my friends on my social media platforms for sharing their experiences, up close and personal with The Queen of Soul, and others who knew her the way I did, as the sweet, soulful LP playing over and over again throughout our lives. We LOVED Aretha. We LIVED Aretha. We love her still - and her soulful messages - THANK GOD - will fill the air forever.

Family Time, part two - July

It's been a dream of a summer! A whirlwind - and it's not over!

Cali Trip 2018

The priorities - 1. Get on the plane 2. See my mother, 3. Go to the Original Tommy's Burger  (numbers 2 and 3 were actually switched in reality. Mr. E had never had a Tommy's, so we went straight there from LAX)

Family!

Had the pleasure of catching up with my brother-in-law (my sister was at work) when we stopped by my mother's house. Then we enjoyed the rest of the evening with Mr. E's West coast family! A GREAT visit!

Just some shots of us at the airport and on the plane before departure

We were truly ready for rest and relaxation. This was a bucket list adventure for Mr. E - he had never taken the drive up the California coast - never been to San Francisco. So we started in Los Angeles and took the drive. It was awesome, because the part of Hwy 1 that had been closed for a year due to mud slides, opened up the very week we were traveling. We were able to go all the way up!

More pictures coming!

Family Time! May to July, part one

Just a pictorial of my family experiences so far this year. From my sister's "girls trip" visit, the stop over visit of my Ohioans, "Los Urias" (formerly of South Korea, formerly of Michigan and California, respectively), to the pre-wedding/bridal shower visit of #WynnBowe, aka #AWynnforDBowe, as they prepare for their November nuptials here on the East coast....  More pictures to come in part two.

Los Urias took the Amtrak to Disney World and stopped over at Union Station here in DC. My son and I enjoyed our 6-hour visit with them!

That's my baby sister bottom right. She came through on a girls trip with her besties. It was awesome to be able to join her for a few hours. We were doing church selfies...(amen, somebody!)

I hosted an East coast bridal shower while #WynnBowe were here finalizing details for their wedding. We did a cake tasting as well! It was great to have some of her bridesmaids and sisters here.  We had a wonderful time - and the food was delish! There will be a West coast bridal shower in September. I'll be sharing!











#BLESSED