The Big D - Family and Friends Make The Difference!

 Detroit still has some very special things to offer...

Family and Friends
    make the Difference!

We had a wonderful time with family and friends, during our visit at the Big D.  It's amazing how much of our neighborhood has changed.  So many abandoned homes, blight and neglect, we could only identify a handful of families still living in their homes on our street. However, there are many natives of Detroit that have decided to ride it out. There are those who have invested much into keeping their neighborhood as beacons of light.  Including my Dad, who is the proud owner and manager of the Hamilton Manor.  It is a 3-story, 20-unit apartment building on the corner of Fullerton and 14th St.

I applaud him and am in agreement for a turnaround, not only in the downtown area, but throughout the city. Many businesses have come and gone, but there are a few that are doing well in various parts of the city. There's always a remnant in the bush!

What makes Detroit so special to us is the wonderful family and friends that are not only surviving, but thriving. What makes true friendship so rich?  The richness of true friendship is embedded deep in our hearts.  It's that kind of friendship that you can spend years apart, living miles away from each other, but with just a little conversation, the friendship is rekindled and the sharing from the heart continues.  It's as if you are writing a story, lay the pad down for just a few moments, but you can pick it up and continue the story at any time.

There are not many friends and family that can fit in this category, but the ones that do fit, make any time together so very special!. 

I hope this inspires you to periodically take the time to reconnect with those special family and friends that your consider your "true friends," in which your relationship withstands time and distance. 

58 yr Anniversary and Going Strong!

My #1 Favorite Parents

Walter and Willetta Hamilton

Back in the day, the marriage vows customarily included ... For better or for worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, til death do us part.  Well, that was back in the day!  Now there is so much flexibility, prenuptials abound, divorce is rampant, annulments are common, shacking and common law marriages are more common place and marriage to many is not as sacred as it used to be back in the day.

Well, I am proud to salute one of my favorite couples in their tenacity to work together to help raise a family committed to God, to each other, with determination to be the very best that they can be.  My #1 Favorite Parents - Walter and Willetta Hamilton.

Today they celebrate 58 yrs of marriage.  Although neither would say it has been a total honeymoon experience, however, just like fine wine, their marriage has become sweeter and they have bonded even closer over time.  Their commitment to each other and raising their family together has been one of the most important bonds holding them together. 

Our family is similar to the Huxtables (Cosby Show), which we loved to watch together, laugh and admire how they resolved issues all in one segment.  Of course, in real time, the journey to resolving issues may not be as pretty, but we managed to work through our challenges, still walking in love, learning and continuing to grow stronger individually and as a family. It's the core values of friendship and being willing to forgive, that kept their love alive and it is what keeps my husband and I going from year to year too.

It's been 17 yrs for my Hubby and I, but we are pressing towards 58 and beyond! We're committed to God, each other and family. Thanks, #1 Favorite Parents for your example!  Happy Anniversary, you inspire me.

Yeah, I'm a graduate without student loans!

Citizens Police Academy - SAV, GA

2014 Spring Class

 Who would have thought an investment of $10, for a one night/wk, 

3 hr course could be so rewarding!

What an interesting 13-week training! I meet people from a variety of backgrounds and learned some so many wonderful things about fellow classmates, myself, the police department, the many agencies working together in the criminal justice system and how we as citizens can help to make an even more positive impact in our communities.

The training not only included classroom presentations, but we were able to participate in field work too.  We visited the 911 Call Center, participated in firearms training simulation, learned self defense tactics, toured the Chatham County Detention Center, learned about forensics and even had a ride-along shift with a precinct officer, and so much more!

Ms. Gianna Nelson, served us well as Assistant Director, guiding us through each weeks activities. As part of our training, we received a binder packed with resource information, that we can reference at any time.

If you are not in the Savannah, GA area and are interested in taking a course like this, check with your local police precinct or search online for a local Citizen Police Academy.  In order to make an even more positive impact in our communities, it will require a joint effort between the citizens, police, businesses, churches and community agencies.  This training helps to bridge the gaps, promote awareness and it is fun too!

The next class starts Thursday, September 11, 2014.  For more detailed information or to apply, click this link: http://www.savannahga.gov/index.aspx?NID=641

Our 17th Wedding Anniversary - Daddy Was Right!

The Wedding Day - May 17, 1997

Love and Soul - Monthly Event

The Simmons and The Tuckers

Daddy Was Right!

Last Sat, May 17th, my husband and I celebrated our 17th Anniversary doing "something special" each day of the entire weekend. It started on Friday night attending a fun-filled, inspirational Love and Soul event hosted by Kimberly Gunn.  Once a month a great line-up of musicians, comedians and artists come together to share their gifts and talents. This is our third time attending and we are never disappointed.

On Saturday, we had a wonderful, somewhat restful day, beginning with a little exercise, then a "light" breakfast at the Original House of Pancakes.  The blueberry pancakes and turkey sausage were wonderful.

On Sunday, we were blessed to celebrate the goodness of God at Overcoming by Faith in SAV, GA.  After service we had a wonderful dinner with a truly anointed and inspirational couple, Bro. and Sis. Simmons. 

It's hard to believe a week has gone by, so quickly.  As I reflect on our Anniversary, I recall how my Dad was one of the key people who admired my husband, when we were "just friends."  He recognized there was something "special about him," when it "came to me," even before I did.  I was 35 yrs young when I got married, so I wasn't a young chick.  When my Dad gently mentioned Otto as possibly being "more than a friend," the Daddy's Girl that I am said, "You just want to get rid of me hugh?"  

Since that time, I have come to appreciate how "wise counsel" from "select people" can help me see more clearly the "better" choices for my life.  It was amazing how his input along with other "confirmations," helped me to make the second most important decision of my life. I married a true friend and partner in ministry and life. It's rare that you find someone to support you through the good, bad and sometimes "ugly" seasons in your life.  With all of my "special needs," he has been the most patient man of God that I could have hoped for. The Bible says, that a man should love His wife as Christ loved the church.  I believe my husband of 17 yrs is doing his best to uphold that standard and I'm so thankful I listened to my Dad on this one.  Daddy was right!

Ride-a-Long to Get-a-Long

A Special Day On The Streets

I am so glad a fellow Toastmaster introduced our club to the opportunity of becoming a graduate of the Citizen's Police Academy in Savannah, GA.  It has been an amazing 13 wk, 3 hr a wk journey.  I have learned so much and have a much greater respect for the Men and Women in Blue. The learning experience only cost $10, gas to and from training locations, and the investment of time required to attend the Thursday evening sessions, 6:30pm - 9:30pm.

I will share more with you in detail, AFTER GRADUATION DAY on May 15th!

Today, I wanted to give you a glimpse of the highly respected, eye-awakening, thought provoking Ride-a-Long!  We had a time frame of 10 days to schedule our Ride-a-Long, which ideally would be with officers from the precinct in which we live. I chose the the early morning shift from 6:30a-2:30p on the Monday after Easter. 

Without divulging any confidential information, let me say it was a VERY INTERESTING morning.  My partner for the day was Officer Potter who is a young man with a BIG HEART! He is a hard-working  man who is working several jobs to help provide for his family.  He "handled" the various "situations" through investigation, much conversation and exchange of information, with compassion and professionalism.  He treated me and everyone he came in contact with as if we were CEO's or dignitaries. I recognize, he had me as a "close observer," but for some reason I sensed, he wasn't putting on a show for me. He appeared to genuinely respect everyone for who they were and did not prejudge them. In many instances, he even shared "the story behind the situation," which gave light to how he really tries to get each individual's perspective before making decisions that would be best for them and the community.

I applaud Officer Potter's fairness and the way he "connected" with people.  The badge and fancy cop car did not make him feel "superior," but at the end of the day, he just wanted to "do his job well, ideally help someone and his community to have a better day, then return to his personal life with his family." Although each officer that I meet, "policed" a little differently, it is good to know they worked as a "team," backing up one another on every call.   If the initial call didn't require a back up, as the "situation" unraveled, either officer could make that call, being confident that "the Calvary" is on the way! 

I'm not naive to believe that "all officers" serve the community in the same way as Officer Potter.  There are some "really good cops" and some "really bad ones too." As for me, this experience has increased my awareness and desire to pray for and support officers like Officer Potter, who are committed to  "doing the right thing, the right way." Keepers of the peace, I applaud your efforts, for blessed are the peacemakers.

Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live

peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

I Timothy 2:2

 

He Got Up! He Has Risen!

Three of my FAVORITE songs will be ministered during our Resurrection Sunday Celebration!

If you don't already have plans, join Overcoming By Faith at either 9a or 11a 

at the Savannah Civic Center, SAV, GA.

It's so cool being married to the guitar player in the band.  I get a sneak preview of the songs!

I hope you plan to celebrate this special day in a very special way!

The lyrics and music says it ALL today!!!

What's So Good About Good Friday?

For those of you who believe as I do, this is a very special time of year, we celebrate Love coming down in the flesh.  I am honored to say, because He lives, I can face tomorrow.  If it was not for the precious promises planted in my heart, I would not have the sense of Hope and Purpose that I have today.

I recall formatting a template for a tract many years ago, What's So Good About Good Friday?  Well, the Good News is that He came and was touched with our infirmities.  He died that we might live.  He knows what we go through and tempted in all points, but without sin.  He walked upon this earth, in order to be that sacrificial lamb for us.  He is our example and source of Hope, Peace, Healing and Strength.

We are so thankful throughout the year, but especially in this Easter season, we recognize what a sacrifice He made, so that we can have life and that life more abundantly.  Regardless of this ever-changing world, God has given us His son, He sacrificed His life for Us and His Love Remains The Same!

As we choose to watch the "Passion of the Christ" on an annual basis and pause to consider what sacrifice He made, I am inspired to reevaluate the life that I live in honor of Him. I hope this post will inspire you to do the same.  Selah

Attitude of Gratitude: The Jar That Inspires

A couple years ago, I was introduced to the idea of having a Attitude of Gratitude Jar, as it was shared in response to a table topics question at a Toastmasters meeting.  Since that time, it has been a source of inspiration in our household. 

What is an Attitude of Gratitude Jar?

It is a plastic/glass jar that can be purchased from any local store, with slips of paper placed on the inside. The slips of paper document any moment that you want to acknowledge your appreciation for something good that has happened in your life.  For example, my most recent note voiced my appreciation for getting a higher tax return that we did last year.  That's something to celebrate in our household!

How can it benefit the family?

It can offset the negativity that seems to predominate the news and most conversations in the world today. It will force us to focus on that which is GOOD vs that which is BAD.  It can help children and adults to make a conscious effort to look at their life from a more POSITIVE perspective.  This helps develop an attitude of gratitude, for the little things in life, that matter most.  There is always something to be grateful for in our lives each and every day, so why not focus on that?  This little jar, placed in a prominent place, can promote a consistent effort of each family member to think on that which is good and gain a greater appreciation for life! 

How can it be used?

The choice is yours! It can be a wonderful family-friendly, inspirational activity on Thanksgiving or at the close of the year, in which each family member can take turns reading the notes placed in the jar.  How wonderful would it be to have each family member have a certain color paper and have somewhat of a "competition."  Who can write the most notes each year?  How cool would that be? It would allow that competitive nature to be applied in a very positive way?

The other option is to utilize the jar as a means of encouragement throughout the year.  Even if you live alone, you can pull from it at any time during the year and remind yourself of those GOOD things that have transpired.  I promise you, it will stir up the joy within you and it can be a source of inspiration throughout the year!  It's doesn't cost much, requires very little time, but the benefits includes more reflection, greater peace, more joy and laughter, along with attitude adjustments on a regular basis.

Kiss anxiety and depression good-bye, say hello to more joy, peace, 

and a home filled with a common ground of appreciation, 

with an Attitude of Gratitude Jar!

[Philippians 4:6-9]

Holding Hands - Simple yet Beautiful!

How often do we see people holding hands? What a sweet expression of affection. It's an innocent, yet powerful display of  a true love connection. It's not offensive.  It's family friendly. It's often overlooked and under rated.

I say, let's bring it back! As I watched these two love birds walk in front of me on a bright sunny morning, their walking and holding hands showed me something.  It exemplified to me that love between two people can withstand the test of time.  True love, is gentle.  True love is patient.  True love can be displayed in the simplest of ways.

This type of love is discreet, yet deep. Very much in contrast to the way we see "so called love" portrayed on TV or in the movies. I would like to see more movies that allow me to use my imagination and not just show everything, every body part, up close and personal. "Too much information" is not healthy for anyone.  

This couple held hands while having light conversation and many moments of just "being there" for one another. I was inspired to do more of the same with my husband.  I hope this post will inspire you to keep your love simple yet beautiful too.

Don't Sweat The Small Stuff

We believe for the best, but how do we deal with the unexpected? When LIFE happens? That unexpected flat tire? That tree branch breaking, falling and causing damage to your home? The unexpected abnormal lab result? Your job description being expanded and you have less time to do more? How do we handle THOSE PEOPLE who just don't do things the way you think they ought to be done? While driving, they cut in front of you, without signaling? They are just so different, they just seem to "get under your skin?"

I am inspired by how Pastor Joel Osteen reminds us to avoid letting "situations" disturb us in a way that we lose our joy and peace. It's encouraging to know that even though me may be "wired" a certain way, we can change our perspective and respond better to every situation.

I recognize I can be "more intense" about certain things and at times "get a little bent out of shape." I am so thankful to have an extremely patient husband who gently helps me to "keep things in perspective." A loving mother who taught me the Prayer of Serenity. An amazing mentor and inner circle of friends who help me to stay focused on the Big Picture. Training and teaching atmospheres such as my church, Toastmasters and even my place of employment.

In addition to this message, I am reading an insightful and inspirational book by Richard Carslon Ph.D, Don't Sweat The Small Stuff. This easy-to-ready book is reminding me of simple ways to keep the little things from taking over my life.

May you be encouraged this day to enjoy your life to the fullest and not sweat the small stuff!

Sometimes Less Is More

Sometimes Less Is More

Since turning 50 yrs old, I have been taking more time to reflect and consider how I can MAXIMIZE my MOMENTS.  I'm feeling as if, I don't have time to WASTE ... Not anymore!

As I transitioned into 2014, I reflected on a 10-day mission trip to Guatemala that changed my perspective in 1993. It included a medical clinic, road evangelism and evangelistic campaign.  The people were joyful, kind, so hospitable and extremely hungry for God's word.  Their primary source of income was through weaving and harvesting corn (which was plentiful). The colors were vibrant, as were their smiles.

How is it that we have billionaires in the U.S. (the land of plenty), who are bitter, depressed and unhappy and those who may have the least, can find such joy and peace?  Here's a poem that sums it up for me:

It's Not What You Have

It's not what you have,

that determines who you are.

It's not what you have,

that makes you a star.

It's not what you have,

which others may see.

It's not what you have,

that determines your destiny.

The fame, the fortune, may come and go,

but this one thing, you must know.

There's something more precious than silver and gold.

It's not what you have, but it's WHO you know.

We Are Not Born To Make a Living, but to Fulfill our Purpose

My mentor, Min. Mary Edwards shared this message with me, that reminded me of the great teachings I heard through Myles Monroe on Purpose.  Although ministered 10 yrs ago, the message remains relevant.

Our theme for the year at Overcoming By Faith in Savannah, GA is

Intentional Living is Life On Purpose!

We weren't born to Make A Living, but we were born to Fulfill our Purpose!

Understanding Your Divine Assignment -72 min video

“The greatest tragedy in life is not death, but a life without a purpose.” 
― Myles Munroe

The Power of Involvement

The Power of Involvement

Shout Out To My #1 Favorite Dad

Although it's not yet Father's Day, everyday is Father's Day to a Daddy's Girl like me. This commercial inspired me to give a shout out to my #1 Favorite Dad.  Don't misunderstand, I recognize he is my only Dad, but I affectionately choose to call him this because I am his #1 Favorite (only) Daughter. 

As far back as I can remember, my Dad made his presence known in my life. He has not only been a provider, but an ever present guider. Whether helping to start our first family business with our neighborhood paper route, through attending many swim meets and basketball games, driving us around to various community/school activities, to moving us back and forth from college to college, apartment to apartment, flat to flat, home to home, in state and out of state, looking through the blue book for newer, good quality used cars, strategically bidding for the "best fit" for his #1 Favorite Daughter, he has been right there ever ready to lend a helping hand. These are just a few of the moments I so clearly remember that have made a positive impact in my life.

My Dad, would say, these were just the "things to do," as a father. However, every Dad, doesn't have an inner manual to live by. Many have grown up in a single parent, absentee or even abusive households. What's out there for them?  Where can they learn how to become more involved with their children?  What's out there for them?

Fortunately, there are many churches and community agencies that help mentor young men, setting the foundation for them to be better prepared to be a father.  The above video is connected with an insightful website that provides, facilitates and disseminates current research, proven and innovative strategies that will encourage and strengthen fathers, families and providers of services.

www.fatherhood.gov

May this post inspire fathers to "make the time," in their daily activities to be engaged and involved, especially with their daughters.  A Daddy's Girl needs that involvement to help them to see unconditional love from the opposite sex.  This involvement other than just discipline or correction, lays the foundation for little girls to become healthier young ladies, women, wives and future mothers.

Thanks Again To My Dad, Walter Hamilton

The International Day of Happiness

The International Day of Happiness

Happiness - a state of pleasure, contentment, satisfaction, cheerfulness

I just discovered this, today is the International Day of Happiness - March 20th.  How cool is this?  At least one day the focus is more on Good news vs Bad news.  What if the world were bombarded with more videos, TV shows, games, activities, etc that build a sense of hope and well being?  This is what my blog hopes to accomplish, more focus on Things That Inspire!

Back to my discovery!  I was once told that the difference between happiness and joy is this:  Happiness is based on circumstances. Joy is a sense of peace irregardless of our circumstances. Today is a day to reflect and consider our past, present and future.  What is your definition of happiness?  Are you in constant pursuit of it?  Will you know it when you find it?  Just some questions I am considering today.  I challenge you to do the same.

While you are considering these questions, take some time to check out this website that I came across that will surely make you smile!  It is about two guys who are formulating a feature-length documentary on the happiest people in America.  In a culture that focuses on and sensationalizes so much negativity, it's easy to lose sight of all the good that surrounds us.  This is their attempt to shift the focus. 

Pursuing Happiness - Adam Shell and Nicholas Kraft

www.pursuinghappiness.com

Once you're done, allow yourself to close your day with this upbeat short music video by Bobby McFerrin. Kick off your shoes, dance till you stir yourself up, laugh out loud, remembering: Happiness Is Your Choice! 

Leaving A Legacy of Value - Anyone Can Do This!

Leaving A Legacy of Value
Anyone Can Do This!

Is there anyone out there who doesn't want to "leave a mark that cannot be erased?"  Well, why not start now, preparing for the inevitable.  Regardless of your beliefs, there is not one person, who will live forever, on this earth!  Why not make your mark, leaving documentation of your love through letter writing.

Sure, there are high tech methods to preserve your legacy, but nothing quite takes the place of a good heartfelt letter, given to someone that you care about deeply. It's not limited to time or space, doesn't require internet access or any type of device.  It can be written on specialty paper of your choosing, legal pad, spiral notebook paper or even a napkin.  It's so much more personal and as you can see in the video, it will truly touch the heart of the receiver.

I came across this short, practical, heartfelt video on TED Talks and was inspired to plan some letter writing time in my monthly calendar.  My desire is that you too would be inspired to do the same and surprise someone you love.

International Women's Day: Women As Influencers

International Women's Day: Women As Influencers

It all started with Eve in the Garden.  The power of influence is one of the greatest characteristics of women. As with Eve, we have a choice of how to use this power.  Eve made the wrong choice, but we don't have to make that same mistake.

I honor my Mom, Willetta Hamilton, who is one of the greatest women in my life. She has a quiet strength, faith that moves mountains, strong sense of family and patience like no other.  She set the tone of our home.  Haven't you heard, the saying, "If Momma ain't happy, nobody's happy?"  Well, my Mom set an atmosphere of peace.  Rarely did we see Mom upset as she seemed to tirelessly give her best to be that exceptional home manager, combined with an amazing nurse anesthetist, working extra hours to help provide for the family.  

Although Mom is retired now, she is still influencing us with her life of love and service to others.

Who are the women that have influenced your life?  

Today may be a good day, to say THANK YOU!  

I'm inspired today to acknowledge the two most influential women in my life.  

My Mom, Willetta Hamilton (right) and Min. Mary Edwards (left)

Leaving a L.E.G.A.C.Y. - Leaving Every Generation A Chronicle Of You

Leaving a L.E.G.A.C.Y.

Leaving Every Generation A Chronicle Of You

Once I turned 50, there seemed to be an automatic "shift" in my thinking.  Was it due to the unexpected pains in various parts of my body that I periodically awakened to?  Maybe it was due to the "Indian Summers" I began to have in the middle of the Fall?  Alas, it may have been to people much younger than me beginning to ask my age and then responding "You look good for your age!"  I used to ask that same question to others and give them that same response, now it's MY TURN!

During this shift I began to ask more questions about the purpose and significance of MY life.  I've heard it said, "People are not as afraid of dying, as they are of not having anyone remember that they were ever born." Deep down inside of ALL of us, we want to "make our mark" in this life.

My Dad has made his mark with his management of Hamilton Manor, providing for his family and serving the Detroit, MI community for decades.  My great uncle  has left his mark in being the first African American car dealership owner in Detroit,MI.  My grandmother purchased property in Drakes Branch, VA which is maintained primarily by my Uncle David, who wants to keep the property available for building, and so that no family member will ever have to be homeless.  My mentor and friend Minister Mary Edwards has a desire to help others chronicle their stories, so that the positive impact of their lives can be shared from generation to generation.  It is my desire that YOU will be inspired to help ME, help HER to help THEM.

Angel Mykel Edwards (granddaughter)
Author and Speaker

Minister Edwards is an author, book coach, editor, speaker, consultant and visionary servant leader.  Out of her pain, she has written several books, along with pioneering and serving in many non-profit organizations; The Called And Ready Writers, His Lovely Wife Ministries, Widows With Wisdom and the renowned community building, Joy of Jesus Ministry, with her late husband, Rev. Eddie K. Edwards.

Take a moment today and consider, what legacy YOU would like to leave?  Who is it that YOU know who wants to leave a chronicle of their lives whether in a book or memoir?  What person, group or organization would like to hear more about how to turn some of their greatest struggles into ministries that will impact generations to come? Who is that aspiring writer who needs a mentor/coach to help them share their story?

Contact Minister Mary Edwards or Angel Mykel Edwards

by simply clicking on the links below:

Minister Mary Edwards

http://leavesofgoldconsulting.com/

Angel Mykel Edwards (granddaughter)

http://www.angelfoodforthought.com/

Marriage Motivator - Laugh Your Way To A Healthier Marriage

Marriage Motivator

Laugh Your Way To A Healthier Marriage

While in the Post Office today, I meet an unassuming, yet striking couple, who were casually dressed,  looking  "so together, on everything."  They just seemed to waltz into the front door and spin into the line behind me.  I just couldn't help but to comment on what a beautiful couple they appeared to be.  

As we waited, I asked a few questions.  I found out they had been married 45 yrs and the secret to their success?  Well they told me, I was the first person to ask them that question.  I thought to myself, with the divorce rate being so high, I may need to ask more happily married couples their secrets and share this with the world.

Well, she said it's really no Big Secret, as most say, good communication is key.  She then looked at her husband, who paused for a few moments, then shared "It's finding what works for you (as a couple) and then continuing to work it that way." He then asked about my marriage secrets for being joyfully married over 16 yrs.  I responded "Having a good friendship, mixed with laughter, helps us year after year."

I thought about these simple, yet profound responses.  No two people or marriages "work" the same way. What works for one married couple, may cause confusion and be totally bizarre for another couple.  

Find what works and then work it!  I like that secret, what about you? 

Another Inspirational Senior - Estella's Brilliant Bus Shrinks Digital Divide

Another Inspirational Senior

Estella's Brilliant Bus Shrinks Digital Divide

In my last post I shared about my very special mentor/friend, Min. Mary Edwards, who was one of the Top 30 nominees, becoming one of the Top 3 in her category of Family/Youth, honored at the 1st Annual John Maxwell Leadership Awards on Feb. 21st.  At this same event, we had the privilege of sharing breakfast with another special senior who is still making a difference, even after "so-called" retirement, Mrs. Estella Pyfrom.

The Grand Prize Winner: Tony Stewart and his lovely wife and Mr. and Mrs. Pyfrom. 

During a break in the event, I talked with Mrs. Pyfrom, who although in her 70's, was so energetic, transparent and very humble.  She even shared that she was so busy helping others, that she almost missed the timeline for submitting information required to complete her nomination process.  She was once of the Top 10, out of 2,500 nominees. She shared, "I don't really want to be in the spotlight, I just want to be about doing good and helping others.  I am not looking for any recognition, but people nominate me for different things, so I get it anyway."  

When I grow up, I want to be like Min. Edwards and Mrs. Pyfrom, continuing to add value to others and making a difference even in my latter years.  I also hope to be in the position to "give back" in a more substantial way to generations to come. 

With that said, here's a few questions for you to consider: What type of legacy do you want to leave?  In what way will your life impact those outside of your immediate family? Is there anything that you have a passion for that you would invest most of your pension/retirement savings to help bring to fruition? 

Honoring Minister Mary Edwards - The Legacy Lady Meets the Legacy Man

Honoring Minister Mary Edwards 

The Legacy Lady Meets the Legacy Man

John Maxwell Leadership Breakfast, Orlando, FL

Feb 21, 2014

Don't you just love it when a vision becomes a reality? This was one of those moments, we had long awaited for.  It all started with the nomination being submitted in the Fall 2013, when I nominated my mentor/friend of over 25 yrs, Minister Mary Edwards to  be the Leader of the Year for the First Annual John C. Maxwell Leadership Awards.  

By the beginning of Jan. 2014, she was chosen as one of the Top 100, then weeks  later, one of the Top 30. After a few more written requirements and an oral interview, she was nominated as one of the Top 3 in the category of Family/Youth, out of over 2,500 nominees.  

It has been a wonderful, yet challenging journey. During the journey, she has been challenged financially, with extremely high heating bills, in the midst of the worse winter ever in Michigan. Additionally, she suffer the  loss of a very special granddaughter who was destined to write a #1 best seller book.

However, as in giving birth to a child, the appointed day arrived and was filled with excitement, synergy and a sense of pride honoring someone who has made such a positive impact in my life.  It was as if the challenges were overshadowed with the overwhelming joy of the Day of Celebration!

Things That Inspire, is the blog that allows me to share from the heart, those situations, we may sometimes take for granted, but need to be reminded of, in efforts to inspire and encourage others. 

It is with great pleasure that I take this week to CELEBRATE, my friend, mentor, author, book coach, editor and motivational speaker, THE  LEGACY LADY who has a heart for people both young and seasoned. May this post inspire you to give someone who has inspired you a call or acknowledgement while they are yet still alive and well!

Minister Mary Edwards can be reached at Leaves of Gold Consulting, LLC  (313) 492- 0149

www.LeavesofGoldConsulting.com

Valentine's Day: Becoming One - The Power of the Dance

Valentine's Day 

Becoming One - The Power of the Dance

On V-Day 2014, we were so blessed to take part in a special simulcast coordinated by Jimmy and Karen Evans, shown at Overcoming By Faith in SAV, GA.  We started the evening with catered dinner, which was scrumptious meal, combined with great fellowship and conversation.  The simulcast even included a segment in which a couple expressed their love for one another through dance. They also discussed how dance can 

develop  more of a "oneness" in a relationship.

I was able to locate this 5 min. video. Dancing at any age can be a great form of exercise and an awesome way to learn how to better flow in dance and in life!

Check it out and be inspired!

Enjoy, Wendy

God Truly Does Give More Seed to The Sower

God Truly Does Give More Seed to The Sower

I'm inspired to know that from whatever I have, I can give something.

  If I have more, I can give more. 

If not monetarily, I can give of my time, talents or any of my resources.

It is becoming so clear to me how important it is to not be so focused on "making a living," 

but to be be more intentionally focused on "making a difference."  

Making that difference doesn't require a million dollars, 

but it does require a willingness to invest into the lives of others.

I hope this clip will inspire you to give from your heart like Tyler Perry.

Great Are You Lord - All Sons and Daughters

Great Are You Lord by All Sons and Daughters

This past weekend the granddaughter of Min. Mary Edwards (my mentor), went home to be with the Lord.

She was only 31 yrs of age.

This song was ministered at my church and the words reminded me of these important facts.

He gives us breath.  It is in Him that we live, move and have our being.

She is home with the Lord now, but her testimony will be on my lips and I will share as He leads.

May you celebrate this day as another day to give Him praise, 

because He is worthy!