There is a war going on here in the United States of America. I'm not talking in reference to the war on terror in the sense of foreigners dropping bombs or beheading people. That is happening and a travesty but I'm speaking about all the domestic violence here at home. In the news headlines another young brother NFL player is exposed in a video for punching his wife and knocking her unconscious. Another high profile NFL player is being indicted on child abuse charges against his four year old son. Locally here in Memphis, Tennessee where I reside, a husband killed his wife then himself, and a week later a firefighter killed his girlfriend. There also was a group of teenagers forming a hit mob going to the local grocery store and beating up and assaulting innocent people. As if that wasn't enough last month in August in Ferguson, Missouri an unarmed black male teenager was killed in cold blood by a police officer. This has seem to become a trend since the volatile case in 2012 of Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman in the state of Florida.
All of this senseless violence is at epidemic proportions right now. There is so much hate consuming the hearts of men and women today.
Insecurities, betrayal, lack of trust, prejudice, along with other suppressed issues contribute to the behavior that is being exemplified in our society. Our culture is becoming desensitized to the horrific acts of violence happening to women, children, and people in general.
It doesn't matter if the offender is a professional athlete, officer of the law, husband, father, mother, or teenager it is wrong all the way around to carry out such acts of violence. It has got to stop!!!
The bible says in Matthew 11:12, "From the days of John the Baptist until the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force."
Poetic Thought:
Sticks and stones do break bones,
The heart of a man is no longer right but left to go wrong,
Anger brings destruction like a consuming fire,
Integrity is low while immorality has risen higher,
Evil is a cancerous tumor manifested in the mind's core,
We wrestle against spiritual wickedness in this daily domestic war! ~JD
There is a movie I saw a year ago called The Purge. Since then the sequel The Purge Anarchy came out in July of this year. I saw both movies. The basis of the movies is a new age America where for one day in March for a period of 12 hours acts of violence is legal to commit including murder and people wouldn't be held accountable for their actions. The movie is intriguing but subliminally it sends a message of where our society could be heading. We must turn back to God and educate ourselves on conflict resolution instead of resorting to violence as a means to solve disputes or problems we all face. Pick up your cross and get on the battlefield to defeat the enemy in this domestic war! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
LIFE'S LABOR
Well we are coming off another Labor Day holiday. It is a time of reflection for the American worker be it blue collar or white collar. In order to produce anything or achieve something labor is required.
In life as a man or woman you will have to labor in order to have a better quality of life. If you are a parent you labor to provide for your children. If you are an entrepreneur you labor to ensure a successful business. If you are a mother you spent numerous of hours in labor to birth your child. With respect to reference of a mother in labor during the process of child birth, is similar to what you go through in life. The pains of life's labor come hard, sharp, and like a contraction it seems every few minutes literally and figuratively.
Now I am a man and I could never know what it actually feels like to be in labor to give birth like a woman, but I do know about life's labor.
Here are a few examples of labor pains in life: family disconnect (contraction), heartache (contraction), sickness (contraction), sin (contraction) along with many more. No man or woman is exempt from experiencing life's labor. If you endure the discomfort and pain by putting Jesus Christ first in your life then you will eventually birth a blessing like a mother does her child.
The bible says in Psalms 128:2, "You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours."
Poetic Thought:
The battlefield of the mind is fought everyday,
Stay parallel, your actions must line up with what you say,
Going through the basic training of life,
No matter the odds, be courageous, earn your stripes,
Be encouraged, embrace the Lord's favor,
Impact someone positively, reap the fruit of Life's Labor! ~ JD
There is a gospel song I love to listen to by William Murphy called "Its Working". This song invigorates my spirit and motivates my determination and drive to know that no matter what Grace and Favor is given to me by God. Here is the hook:
"This is my season for grace and for favor,
This is my season to reap what I've sown,
Everything is working together for my good"
Remember this when life's labor seems unbearable, know that God has something for you on the other side of it. Until next time, class dismiss!!!
In life as a man or woman you will have to labor in order to have a better quality of life. If you are a parent you labor to provide for your children. If you are an entrepreneur you labor to ensure a successful business. If you are a mother you spent numerous of hours in labor to birth your child. With respect to reference of a mother in labor during the process of child birth, is similar to what you go through in life. The pains of life's labor come hard, sharp, and like a contraction it seems every few minutes literally and figuratively.
Now I am a man and I could never know what it actually feels like to be in labor to give birth like a woman, but I do know about life's labor.
Here are a few examples of labor pains in life: family disconnect (contraction), heartache (contraction), sickness (contraction), sin (contraction) along with many more. No man or woman is exempt from experiencing life's labor. If you endure the discomfort and pain by putting Jesus Christ first in your life then you will eventually birth a blessing like a mother does her child.
The bible says in Psalms 128:2, "You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours."
Poetic Thought:
The battlefield of the mind is fought everyday,
Stay parallel, your actions must line up with what you say,
Going through the basic training of life,
No matter the odds, be courageous, earn your stripes,
Be encouraged, embrace the Lord's favor,
Impact someone positively, reap the fruit of Life's Labor! ~ JD
There is a gospel song I love to listen to by William Murphy called "Its Working". This song invigorates my spirit and motivates my determination and drive to know that no matter what Grace and Favor is given to me by God. Here is the hook:
"This is my season for grace and for favor,
This is my season to reap what I've sown,
Everything is working together for my good"
Remember this when life's labor seems unbearable, know that God has something for you on the other side of it. Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Thursday, August 14, 2014
HEART ATTACK
Today many people are suffering from heart attacks. I'm not speaking the heart attack in the physical sense where your internal organ goes into cardiac arrest. I'm speaking about the heart that has the artery of your emotions flowing through it.
Many factors can attribute to you having a heart attack. Some examples would be a disappointment or failure in something you are pursuing, a bad break up in a relationship with someone you love, or a disconnect with your family.
In the past and present I have experienced all three. The only way to persevere through it is giving it to GOD. Let's be real you might know this and can speak it all day to someone else but when it is you going through it is easier said than done. Emotions of hurt, anger, frustration can be like hot coals scorching you. As a man or woman in this journey of life you will surely experience adversity, setbacks, and heartache. Like the popular saying "What don't kill you makes you stronger."
Another important thing is to take a self assessment of yourself and the things you may have done to contribute to your heart attack. Things you could have done better, mistakes that could have been avoided or not repeated, procrastinating instead of progressing forward.
Like with your physical heart you must get exercise, eat right, and take vitamins so it may function properly and not be high in cholesterol. You must do the same for your emotional heart in order for it to function properly. Exercise love, feed it the word of GOD, take Vitamin A (Acceptance), Vitamin C (Compassion), Vitamin D (Discipline). At some point alot of us have been deficient in our heart regiment, I know I have and can tell when the emotional cholesterol in my heart is high.
The bible says in Psalm 147:3, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
Poetic Thought:
Life is a rollercoaster going up and down,
Sometimes you have to smile through an obvious frown,
Love is suppose to be nourished not starved,
Any conflict unresolved can leave scars,
Seek what is good in abundance not lack,
GOD is the specialist and will heal your heart attack! ~ JD
There is a gospel song that I love to listen to by Dewayne Woods called "Let Go".
This song is personal to me because I can feel it in my spirit and how it applies to my life. Here are some lyrics from the song that stands out:
"There is so much going on,
Sometimes I can't find my way,
And often times I struggle,
Struggle from day to day"
"As soon as I stop worrying,
Worrying how the story ends,
I let go and I let God
Let God have his way"
Those are some powerful words! For anyone reading this blog and going through anything that troubles your heart, just know to give it over to GOD and he will allow it all to work out for your good. It may not seem like it at first, believe me I know, but just understand his timing is not our timing but he is always right on time! GOD bless you! Until next time, class dismiss!
Many factors can attribute to you having a heart attack. Some examples would be a disappointment or failure in something you are pursuing, a bad break up in a relationship with someone you love, or a disconnect with your family.
In the past and present I have experienced all three. The only way to persevere through it is giving it to GOD. Let's be real you might know this and can speak it all day to someone else but when it is you going through it is easier said than done. Emotions of hurt, anger, frustration can be like hot coals scorching you. As a man or woman in this journey of life you will surely experience adversity, setbacks, and heartache. Like the popular saying "What don't kill you makes you stronger."
Another important thing is to take a self assessment of yourself and the things you may have done to contribute to your heart attack. Things you could have done better, mistakes that could have been avoided or not repeated, procrastinating instead of progressing forward.
Like with your physical heart you must get exercise, eat right, and take vitamins so it may function properly and not be high in cholesterol. You must do the same for your emotional heart in order for it to function properly. Exercise love, feed it the word of GOD, take Vitamin A (Acceptance), Vitamin C (Compassion), Vitamin D (Discipline). At some point alot of us have been deficient in our heart regiment, I know I have and can tell when the emotional cholesterol in my heart is high.
The bible says in Psalm 147:3, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
Poetic Thought:
Life is a rollercoaster going up and down,
Sometimes you have to smile through an obvious frown,
Love is suppose to be nourished not starved,
Any conflict unresolved can leave scars,
Seek what is good in abundance not lack,
GOD is the specialist and will heal your heart attack! ~ JD
There is a gospel song that I love to listen to by Dewayne Woods called "Let Go".
This song is personal to me because I can feel it in my spirit and how it applies to my life. Here are some lyrics from the song that stands out:
"There is so much going on,
Sometimes I can't find my way,
And often times I struggle,
Struggle from day to day"
"As soon as I stop worrying,
Worrying how the story ends,
I let go and I let God
Let God have his way"
Those are some powerful words! For anyone reading this blog and going through anything that troubles your heart, just know to give it over to GOD and he will allow it all to work out for your good. It may not seem like it at first, believe me I know, but just understand his timing is not our timing but he is always right on time! GOD bless you! Until next time, class dismiss!
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
SEX SEASON II
It's that time of year again. The weather has gotten warmer with spring here on the verge of summer. A year ago on this blog I talked about sex season. The examples of more revealing clothes, men displaying their physiques from putting time in the gym, women showing off their coke bottle plus figures from doing the same. Don't get it twisted sex stays in the air 24/7/365 but this particular time of year as summer approaches hormones are wild like Pac-Man. Like I stated before sex is a great thing created by God but like with anything man has tainted it to fit our own desires and agenda..
No longer is it sacred between a man and woman or husband and wife, but to whomever chooses and to whoever they choose it with, regardless of age or gender.
Sex is a free will choice whether it's in the confinement of marriage or an adult engaging in it outside of marriage. Lets be honest sex feels good, men we like it and women like it too. Some people desire for sex is higher than the next individual, and there is nothing wrong with either person. A high libido shouldn't mean a low morality when it comes to sex. An example of this would be porn. A well known reality star off a show that I watch decided to do a sex video. Yes I've seen a clip of it, when it first went viral on the internet like so many others. I'm not passing judgement on her, she is attractive, but her private business out for the public to view, diminished some class. The real issue is how it is going to affect her young daughter.
We are free to choose what we want to do but not free from the consequences of that choice.
The bible says in I Corinthians 6:12, "Everything is permissible me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything."
Poetic Thought:
The sweetest is that pink cookie,
All star in the game far from a rookie,
Addictive adrenaline rush,
The feeling of an orgasm as it bust,
Penetrate deep, intercourse is next,
Society with no restraint being a slave to sex. ~ JD
There is no secret most of us have engaged in sex at some point in our lives from adolescence to adulthood. You are entitled to your opinion, but I feel it should stay a private encounter. Be wise and either practice safe sex with a condom or abstain , or risk losing the game in this season of sex! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
No longer is it sacred between a man and woman or husband and wife, but to whomever chooses and to whoever they choose it with, regardless of age or gender.
Sex is a free will choice whether it's in the confinement of marriage or an adult engaging in it outside of marriage. Lets be honest sex feels good, men we like it and women like it too. Some people desire for sex is higher than the next individual, and there is nothing wrong with either person. A high libido shouldn't mean a low morality when it comes to sex. An example of this would be porn. A well known reality star off a show that I watch decided to do a sex video. Yes I've seen a clip of it, when it first went viral on the internet like so many others. I'm not passing judgement on her, she is attractive, but her private business out for the public to view, diminished some class. The real issue is how it is going to affect her young daughter.
We are free to choose what we want to do but not free from the consequences of that choice.
The bible says in I Corinthians 6:12, "Everything is permissible me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything."
Poetic Thought:
The sweetest is that pink cookie,
All star in the game far from a rookie,
Addictive adrenaline rush,
The feeling of an orgasm as it bust,
Penetrate deep, intercourse is next,
Society with no restraint being a slave to sex. ~ JD
There is no secret most of us have engaged in sex at some point in our lives from adolescence to adulthood. You are entitled to your opinion, but I feel it should stay a private encounter. Be wise and either practice safe sex with a condom or abstain , or risk losing the game in this season of sex! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
TRUST
Trust is something that takes almost a lifetime to gain but only a short time to lose. It is the glue that binds relationships between men and women and all people in general.
If there is no trust between two individuals more likely than not the relationship will be broken. It is human nature to feel close to another person if you are able to trust them. This applies to family, friends, coworkers, or anyone you are willing to trust.
I have experienced in my own life trust being broken in my family and personal relationships. In my opinion trust goes hand in hand with respect. When it is gone, respect begins to evaporate as well.
Think back over your life when someone lost trust in you or you lost trust in someone, it wasn't a very good feeling. It quite possibly affected your emotions in a negative way and your perception of the individual changed or theirs changed about you.
The bible says in Psalm 118:8, "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man."
Poetic Thought:
Have direction either go left or stay right,
Collaborate with your attributes or let insecurities cause a fight,
Everyday is new mercy, a gift from the creator,
Life is like the candy, things happen now, some later,
Be filled with love so much you could bust,
When everything fails seek God because in him you can always trust! ~ JD
One of my favorite gangster movies is New Jack City. The main character Nino Brown was played by legendary actor Wesley Snipes and his right hand man G Money played by great actor Allen Payne. A lot happened throughout their reign over the dope game in New York. But once the heat by the authorities got on them tough, their drug empire became infiltrated and crumbled. Trust between them evaporated and Nino end up killing G Money.
Trust is a rare commodity that is in high demand in today's society. My acronym for TRUST is
The Real Understanding Shines Through! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
If there is no trust between two individuals more likely than not the relationship will be broken. It is human nature to feel close to another person if you are able to trust them. This applies to family, friends, coworkers, or anyone you are willing to trust.
I have experienced in my own life trust being broken in my family and personal relationships. In my opinion trust goes hand in hand with respect. When it is gone, respect begins to evaporate as well.
Think back over your life when someone lost trust in you or you lost trust in someone, it wasn't a very good feeling. It quite possibly affected your emotions in a negative way and your perception of the individual changed or theirs changed about you.
The bible says in Psalm 118:8, "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man."
Poetic Thought:
Have direction either go left or stay right,
Collaborate with your attributes or let insecurities cause a fight,
Everyday is new mercy, a gift from the creator,
Life is like the candy, things happen now, some later,
Be filled with love so much you could bust,
When everything fails seek God because in him you can always trust! ~ JD
One of my favorite gangster movies is New Jack City. The main character Nino Brown was played by legendary actor Wesley Snipes and his right hand man G Money played by great actor Allen Payne. A lot happened throughout their reign over the dope game in New York. But once the heat by the authorities got on them tough, their drug empire became infiltrated and crumbled. Trust between them evaporated and Nino end up killing G Money.
Trust is a rare commodity that is in high demand in today's society. My acronym for TRUST is
The Real Understanding Shines Through! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Thursday, March 20, 2014
NO DOUBT (1 YR. ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
One thing that many men and women face today is doubt. At some point in your life you have had doubt. Maybe you doubted an opportunity, healing, or something that would be in your favor. Doubt is an instrument used by the enemy to cause you not to trust in God or firmly believe in his promises to you.
Doubt can come from many sources. People close to you will doubt you sometimes such as family, a spouse or significant other, and friends.
It can be self doubt which is the worst form of doubt because if you don't believe in yourself no one else will. In my own life I've experienced doubt from others and rare moments of self doubt but I would always overcome it. Doubt from others didn't really matter to me because I felt no one is in position to judge the next person. The self doubt I immediately dismiss because I am driven to succeed no matter the odds.
Every man or woman must have confidence in order to combat doubt. If not, doubt will choke the life out of your dreams and aspirations!
The bible says in James 1:6, "But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."
Poetic Thought:
Life is like spades, arrange your cards,
You hold the ace, so play smart,
Pursuit of happiness takes you through a maze,
Appreciate the good ones and learn from the bad days,
When you're up to bat, don't strike out,
Be determined to get your blessing, have no doubt! ~ JD
I like the producer and artist Pharrell Williams of the Neptunes. His new song "Happy" plays in my music rotation. It's a feel good song with a positive message. Here is a verse and hook from this song;
verse: Here come bad news talking this and that (yeah!)
Well, give me all you got, don't hold it back (yeah!)
Well, I should probably warn you I'll be just fine (yeah!)
No offense to you don't waste your time, here's why
hook: Because I'm happy
Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
Because I'm happy
Clap okay if you feel like happiness is the truth
If you are reading this blog, have life, then God is not through with you. Happy anniversary to my blog Real Life University that I started 1 year ago today. Thank you to everyone who read and subscribe to it and the best is yet to come that is no doubt! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Doubt can come from many sources. People close to you will doubt you sometimes such as family, a spouse or significant other, and friends.
It can be self doubt which is the worst form of doubt because if you don't believe in yourself no one else will. In my own life I've experienced doubt from others and rare moments of self doubt but I would always overcome it. Doubt from others didn't really matter to me because I felt no one is in position to judge the next person. The self doubt I immediately dismiss because I am driven to succeed no matter the odds.
Every man or woman must have confidence in order to combat doubt. If not, doubt will choke the life out of your dreams and aspirations!
The bible says in James 1:6, "But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."
Poetic Thought:
Life is like spades, arrange your cards,
You hold the ace, so play smart,
Pursuit of happiness takes you through a maze,
Appreciate the good ones and learn from the bad days,
When you're up to bat, don't strike out,
Be determined to get your blessing, have no doubt! ~ JD
I like the producer and artist Pharrell Williams of the Neptunes. His new song "Happy" plays in my music rotation. It's a feel good song with a positive message. Here is a verse and hook from this song;
verse: Here come bad news talking this and that (yeah!)
Well, give me all you got, don't hold it back (yeah!)
Well, I should probably warn you I'll be just fine (yeah!)
No offense to you don't waste your time, here's why
hook: Because I'm happy
Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
Because I'm happy
Clap okay if you feel like happiness is the truth
If you are reading this blog, have life, then God is not through with you. Happy anniversary to my blog Real Life University that I started 1 year ago today. Thank you to everyone who read and subscribe to it and the best is yet to come that is no doubt! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Thursday, March 6, 2014
STAYING POWER
These days very few men and women have staying power or in other words the stamina to go the distance. I am speaking in regards to spiritual and emotional staying power not only physical. A person's spiritual and emotional staying power will be tested when adversity strikes in its various forms. Examples can be; pressure at your job, conflict with a spouse or significant other, more bills than funds sufficient, division within your family, just to name a few.
As a man or woman residing in our flesh, our nature is to be defensive, shield ourselves from hurt, disappointment, or shame. Our inability to push through allows for the Lord's ability to give us the staying power to make it through.
I have learned time and time again in my own life this lesson. When anger and frustration infiltrated my spirit and threw my mind off focus, I had to go to God in prayer. That's when I receive direction, confirmation, and the stamina needed in order to see the blessing on the other side whatever obstacle was in my way.
When I work out in the gym, I go hard in my regiment. Precision in my reps and sets in order to build and strengthen my muscles. If I overwork my muscles or fail to properly stretch them, then muscle fatigue can set in causing me not to have maximum performance or stamina while working out.
The same goes in the spiritual, if you allow adversity to overwork your emotions, your faith will suffer fatigue and frustration will hinder you from the blessing that is on its way.
Speaking as a man staying power is not only important in the bedroom and gym but also in the spirit where the battle is waged for your soul daily!
The bible says in Galatians 6:9, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Poetic Thought:
Time moves forward never back,
You appreciate abundance when you've experienced lack,
Blessings or curses can fall like Niagara,
Prayers stand erect, spiritual Viagra,
Make the most of your daily 24 hours,
Go to the GNC (God Never Ceases) to give you staying power! ~ JD
I am huge fan of the movie series Rocky played by legendary actor Sylvester Stallone. I have the dvd box set Rocky, Rocky II , Rocky III, Rocky IV. I was watching Rocky II the other day, the rematch between Rocky and Apollo Creed went the distance 15 rounds of intense battle between boxing Gladiators. Even though Apollo Creed was a superior boxer, it was Rocky's mental staying power that propelled him to victory and becoming heavy weight champion.
That's how it is when you in the ring of life against adversity the enemy throws at you, go the distance, roll with the punches, trust God and you will come out victorious! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
As a man or woman residing in our flesh, our nature is to be defensive, shield ourselves from hurt, disappointment, or shame. Our inability to push through allows for the Lord's ability to give us the staying power to make it through.
I have learned time and time again in my own life this lesson. When anger and frustration infiltrated my spirit and threw my mind off focus, I had to go to God in prayer. That's when I receive direction, confirmation, and the stamina needed in order to see the blessing on the other side whatever obstacle was in my way.
When I work out in the gym, I go hard in my regiment. Precision in my reps and sets in order to build and strengthen my muscles. If I overwork my muscles or fail to properly stretch them, then muscle fatigue can set in causing me not to have maximum performance or stamina while working out.
The same goes in the spiritual, if you allow adversity to overwork your emotions, your faith will suffer fatigue and frustration will hinder you from the blessing that is on its way.
Speaking as a man staying power is not only important in the bedroom and gym but also in the spirit where the battle is waged for your soul daily!
The bible says in Galatians 6:9, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Poetic Thought:
Time moves forward never back,
You appreciate abundance when you've experienced lack,
Blessings or curses can fall like Niagara,
Prayers stand erect, spiritual Viagra,
Make the most of your daily 24 hours,
Go to the GNC (God Never Ceases) to give you staying power! ~ JD
I am huge fan of the movie series Rocky played by legendary actor Sylvester Stallone. I have the dvd box set Rocky, Rocky II , Rocky III, Rocky IV. I was watching Rocky II the other day, the rematch between Rocky and Apollo Creed went the distance 15 rounds of intense battle between boxing Gladiators. Even though Apollo Creed was a superior boxer, it was Rocky's mental staying power that propelled him to victory and becoming heavy weight champion.
That's how it is when you in the ring of life against adversity the enemy throws at you, go the distance, roll with the punches, trust God and you will come out victorious! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
DYSFUNCTION
All of us as men and women have experienced some sort of dysfunction in our lives at one time or another. It could be dysfunction within your family, your job, your relationship or marriage, or better yet yourself. No one is immune or exempt from this tainted fabric of life.
In my own life I have witnessed and experienced dysfunction in all the areas mentioned above. Only the grace of God allowed me to persevere and overcome the dysfunction that was uninvited and the dysfunction I blindly invited in my life.
Our society today is full with dysfunctional actions committed by people. Everything from senseless murder, sexual abuse of children, domestic violence, drug addiction and trafficking , just to name a few. Other forms of dysfunction not as volatile is jealousy and envy within families, adults being their children friend instead of parent, individuals sabotaging relationships because of not being use to having a real substantial healthy one.
At the end of the day we all come from the heritage of Adam and Eve who birth dysfunction after falling from grace with God in the garden of Eden. Their son Cain murder his brother Abel out of jealousy and the cycle of dysfunction has continue to manifest over the generations today.
The bible says in Matthew 12:25, But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand."
Poetic Thought:
Bitter has become sweet, sweet has become bitter,
Take the trash out instead of adding to the litter,
Love was right, now it's left,
The hearts of men and women are consume with self,
This journey will bring you to life's junction,
Cast your burdens on God, he will remove you from dysfunction! ~ JD
There is an ole school song by R&B artist Alexander O'Neal featuring Cherelle called "Never knew love like this" that I like a lot. I was listening to it the other night on my smart phone. The song is basically explaining how a man and a woman who never experience a love like they share together now because previously in life they did not know how it felt to have a real love. This is the same way with God, he wants to deliver us from our dysfunctional habits, lifestyles, and pain to give us love, purpose, and life more abundantly. Divine intervention trumps dysfunction always! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
In my own life I have witnessed and experienced dysfunction in all the areas mentioned above. Only the grace of God allowed me to persevere and overcome the dysfunction that was uninvited and the dysfunction I blindly invited in my life.
Our society today is full with dysfunctional actions committed by people. Everything from senseless murder, sexual abuse of children, domestic violence, drug addiction and trafficking , just to name a few. Other forms of dysfunction not as volatile is jealousy and envy within families, adults being their children friend instead of parent, individuals sabotaging relationships because of not being use to having a real substantial healthy one.
At the end of the day we all come from the heritage of Adam and Eve who birth dysfunction after falling from grace with God in the garden of Eden. Their son Cain murder his brother Abel out of jealousy and the cycle of dysfunction has continue to manifest over the generations today.
The bible says in Matthew 12:25, But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand."
Poetic Thought:
Bitter has become sweet, sweet has become bitter,
Take the trash out instead of adding to the litter,
Love was right, now it's left,
The hearts of men and women are consume with self,
This journey will bring you to life's junction,
Cast your burdens on God, he will remove you from dysfunction! ~ JD
There is an ole school song by R&B artist Alexander O'Neal featuring Cherelle called "Never knew love like this" that I like a lot. I was listening to it the other night on my smart phone. The song is basically explaining how a man and a woman who never experience a love like they share together now because previously in life they did not know how it felt to have a real love. This is the same way with God, he wants to deliver us from our dysfunctional habits, lifestyles, and pain to give us love, purpose, and life more abundantly. Divine intervention trumps dysfunction always! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Monday, February 10, 2014
MEN FROM MARS/WOMEN FROM VENUS (LOVE)
It's February and one holiday that signals love is Valentine's day, February 14th. Millions of dollars will be spent on cards, teddy bears, chocolate candy, lingerie, and jewelry just to name a few. Nothing is wrong with getting a gift for that spouse or significant other in your life for this holiday, but it should be expressed every day through out the year as well.
Men and women receive and express love differently. The main factors that love must be built upon is trust, respect, loyalty, and understanding in order to sustain it successfully. I've learned over the course of my life, that men are positional and women are relational. I say this because man had position with God before he had relationship with another human being. (Adam) A woman was birthed in relationship. (Eve)
An example would be when men get together, a common question asked is "What do you do for a living?"
This is a way of finding out what position or title the next man holds. An example when women get together, a common question asked is "Are you married?" or "Do you have children?" This is a way of finding out the relationships the next woman has nurtured in her life.
There are many more examples to back up what I am saying and I'm sure many people will have their own opinions about it, I understand that. This is just a reflection of my perspective. In relationships men and women see things through a different scope of lenses but love is the glue that should keep them together.
The bible says in Colossians 3:14, "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
Poetic Thought:
Life is like a game of cards,
Play your ace before you deal your heart,
Basically love is a choice,
We marry each other attributes, but the flaws we divorce,
Cohabitation from the vagina to the penis,
Love speaks, men are from Mars, women from Venus! ~ JD
I am a huge fan of Teddy Pendergrass music. There is one particular song I like a lot that I have downloaded in my playlist on my smart phone, it is "When somebody loves you back." The chorus if this song goes:
"So good , good lovin' somebody
And somebody loves you back
It's so good needin' somebody
And somebody needs you back."
These lyrics speak to the heart of what love is in a relationship between a man and a woman. Appreciate the similarities and respect the differences. Live, laugh, and love! Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Men and women receive and express love differently. The main factors that love must be built upon is trust, respect, loyalty, and understanding in order to sustain it successfully. I've learned over the course of my life, that men are positional and women are relational. I say this because man had position with God before he had relationship with another human being. (Adam) A woman was birthed in relationship. (Eve)
An example would be when men get together, a common question asked is "What do you do for a living?"
This is a way of finding out what position or title the next man holds. An example when women get together, a common question asked is "Are you married?" or "Do you have children?" This is a way of finding out the relationships the next woman has nurtured in her life.
There are many more examples to back up what I am saying and I'm sure many people will have their own opinions about it, I understand that. This is just a reflection of my perspective. In relationships men and women see things through a different scope of lenses but love is the glue that should keep them together.
The bible says in Colossians 3:14, "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
Poetic Thought:
Life is like a game of cards,
Play your ace before you deal your heart,
Basically love is a choice,
We marry each other attributes, but the flaws we divorce,
Cohabitation from the vagina to the penis,
Love speaks, men are from Mars, women from Venus! ~ JD
I am a huge fan of Teddy Pendergrass music. There is one particular song I like a lot that I have downloaded in my playlist on my smart phone, it is "When somebody loves you back." The chorus if this song goes:
"So good , good lovin' somebody
And somebody loves you back
It's so good needin' somebody
And somebody needs you back."
These lyrics speak to the heart of what love is in a relationship between a man and a woman. Appreciate the similarities and respect the differences. Live, laugh, and love! Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Monday, January 27, 2014
PAYING DUES
In this life as men and women we will have trials and tribulations. No one knows your struggles or path taken like you. People see you but don't really know what you had to endure or overcome to get to where you are now or going to be soon. In order to attain any measure of success a person must first pay dues through hard work, determination, failure, setbacks, among other adversity.
In today's society we often see people who are successful be it financial, influential, or both and tend to assume that individual had it easy. Little do you realize the dues he or she had to pay before getting there.
Sometimes the individual making a lucrative income, knew how it felt to be broke and unemployed.
Sometimes the individual who is a powerful speaker and influential, knew how it felt to be voiceless and irrelevant.
Sometimes the individual in a loving relationship, knew how it felt to be brokenhearted, mistreated, and alone.
Sometimes the individual who lives life to the fullest no matter the circumstances, knew how it felt to be on the brink of depression and death.
A saying that I have heard different preachers say over the years is "You see my glory, but don't know my story." That statement speaks volumes and I can relate to it in my own life.
The bible says in James 1:12, " Blessed is the one perseveres under trial because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."
Poetic Thought:
Life is the canvass and you are Picasso,
Embrace your truth and lies let go,
Take all of life's lemons and turn them into lemonade,
Study to show yourself approve, make the grade,
The soundtrack of your life should be inspirational not down and out blues,
In order to receive the blessings, everyone will be paying dues! ~ JD
There is a song by R&B artist Anthony Hamilton that I like called "Point of it all". In the song he is professing his love to a woman. He is essentially saying that everything that is shared, experience between them comes back to the point that he loves her.
In the same case but different perspective, God is like that with us. Everything he allows us to go through before receiving the promise, the blessing, he says the point of it all my son, my daughter is I love you! Paying dues is not like paying taxes because no one is EXEMPT! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
In today's society we often see people who are successful be it financial, influential, or both and tend to assume that individual had it easy. Little do you realize the dues he or she had to pay before getting there.
Sometimes the individual making a lucrative income, knew how it felt to be broke and unemployed.
Sometimes the individual who is a powerful speaker and influential, knew how it felt to be voiceless and irrelevant.
Sometimes the individual in a loving relationship, knew how it felt to be brokenhearted, mistreated, and alone.
Sometimes the individual who lives life to the fullest no matter the circumstances, knew how it felt to be on the brink of depression and death.
A saying that I have heard different preachers say over the years is "You see my glory, but don't know my story." That statement speaks volumes and I can relate to it in my own life.
The bible says in James 1:12, " Blessed is the one perseveres under trial because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him."
Poetic Thought:
Life is the canvass and you are Picasso,
Embrace your truth and lies let go,
Take all of life's lemons and turn them into lemonade,
Study to show yourself approve, make the grade,
The soundtrack of your life should be inspirational not down and out blues,
In order to receive the blessings, everyone will be paying dues! ~ JD
There is a song by R&B artist Anthony Hamilton that I like called "Point of it all". In the song he is professing his love to a woman. He is essentially saying that everything that is shared, experience between them comes back to the point that he loves her.
In the same case but different perspective, God is like that with us. Everything he allows us to go through before receiving the promise, the blessing, he says the point of it all my son, my daughter is I love you! Paying dues is not like paying taxes because no one is EXEMPT! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
The DREAM
Yesterday was January 20th, the holiday observed for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. An extraordinary man that gave of himself to impact change in the United States and the world as a whole.
Growing up we all learned in school, and old tv footage about his impact on the civil rights movement of the sixties. He was a man that faced enormous racism, death threats, and hatred for standing up for equality of African-Americans, the poor, and all disenfranchised people alike.
Fast forward to present day 2014 and even though a lot of progress has been made, we still have a long way to go. There are many examples to back up this sentiment I express. The widening gap between the wealthy and the poor almost eliminating the middle class, senseless violence & injustice against minorities especially young black males, domestic violence, embezzlement by CEO's, sex trafficking of minors, among numerous other things.
I believe if he were alive today he would be amazed by the technology advancements we've made but disappointed by the moral decay that has happen and continues to increase.
One thing for certain the dream is still a work in progress, because we have not arrived as African-Americans and people of all races as a whole. There is a room we all share regardless of race, gender, sexual preference, religious belief and that is a room for improvement.
The bible says in Joel 2:28, " And afterward, I will pour out my spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions."
Poetic Thought:
The future is ahead, the past is behind,
Life teaches you lessons, go forward don't rewind,
Love seems lost, replaced with lust false affection,
Credibility stands with integrity, lies run with deception,
The wise invest in people rather than things,
Seek the Lord, believe in yourself, to carry on the MLK dream! ~ JD
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a vessel that God used to influence and impact social change for the United States of America and the world. It is up to continue that legacy through our purpose in this life. We must instill the values in our children because every generation must pass the baton to the next in order for life to be better for all people. Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Growing up we all learned in school, and old tv footage about his impact on the civil rights movement of the sixties. He was a man that faced enormous racism, death threats, and hatred for standing up for equality of African-Americans, the poor, and all disenfranchised people alike.
Fast forward to present day 2014 and even though a lot of progress has been made, we still have a long way to go. There are many examples to back up this sentiment I express. The widening gap between the wealthy and the poor almost eliminating the middle class, senseless violence & injustice against minorities especially young black males, domestic violence, embezzlement by CEO's, sex trafficking of minors, among numerous other things.
I believe if he were alive today he would be amazed by the technology advancements we've made but disappointed by the moral decay that has happen and continues to increase.
One thing for certain the dream is still a work in progress, because we have not arrived as African-Americans and people of all races as a whole. There is a room we all share regardless of race, gender, sexual preference, religious belief and that is a room for improvement.
The bible says in Joel 2:28, " And afterward, I will pour out my spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions."
Poetic Thought:
The future is ahead, the past is behind,
Life teaches you lessons, go forward don't rewind,
Love seems lost, replaced with lust false affection,
Credibility stands with integrity, lies run with deception,
The wise invest in people rather than things,
Seek the Lord, believe in yourself, to carry on the MLK dream! ~ JD
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a vessel that God used to influence and impact social change for the United States of America and the world. It is up to continue that legacy through our purpose in this life. We must instill the values in our children because every generation must pass the baton to the next in order for life to be better for all people. Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
CONFLICT
It is a brand new year 2014. The old has passed from last year in 2013. But lets be honest the adversity that you went through or perhaps going through sometimes linger in your mind and heart. It is human nature for men and women to experience the highs and lows of emotions stemming from different variations of conflict. Conflict could be with family, a relationship, at the job, or with self. I know personally because I have experienced conflict with them all. It tested me in so many ways beyond what I could imagine.
Anger, frustration, and sorrow was prevalent in how I was feeling. Sometimes it made me question myself, others, and even God as to why. Then I had to realize God sometimes has to break you in order to build you back up for the purpose he created you. I also realize that as a man, a human being by the flesh our nature is sinful. The consequences of making choices based off immediate gratification, gain, or comfort and not seeking guidance from the Lord. In my heart my faith reactivated because of the many trials, conflicts, the heavenly father has brought me through in my lifetime thus far. The man and woman with wisdom will allow it to make them better not bitter, stronger not weaker, compassionate not insensitive.
I use to hear this expression growing up as a boy, and today as a man it holds true, "Experience is the best teacher." If you hadn't experience pain, sorrow, hate, and setbacks you couldn't appreciate pleasure, joy, love, and advancement.This is real life not your taxes, so everyone has their due season and no one is EXEMPT!
The bible says in Ephesians 6:12, " For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the ruler, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."
Poetic Thought:
Day to day adversity seems to stomp loudly like a fraternity on probate,
Take time to exhale, so the pressure won't cause you to suffocate,
Stay on the path to your purpose,
Resiliency is deep within, allow it to surface,
You can choose to turn lemons into lemonade or allow the bitterness to make you sick,
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will bring you through any conflict! ~ JD
There is an ole school 90's R&B song by the group Dru Hill that I like a lot. It's called "Tell Me" and I was listening to it just the other day. Well in the song it is referencing a man asking his woman to tell him what she need and want from him so it can be fulfilled. In the same sense but different perspective God wants us to tell him what we need and want from him but it has to be in his will for our life. He only wants the best for his sons and daughters. But we must do our part in order for blessings to manifest and conflicts to be resolved peacefully. Stay encourage! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
Anger, frustration, and sorrow was prevalent in how I was feeling. Sometimes it made me question myself, others, and even God as to why. Then I had to realize God sometimes has to break you in order to build you back up for the purpose he created you. I also realize that as a man, a human being by the flesh our nature is sinful. The consequences of making choices based off immediate gratification, gain, or comfort and not seeking guidance from the Lord. In my heart my faith reactivated because of the many trials, conflicts, the heavenly father has brought me through in my lifetime thus far. The man and woman with wisdom will allow it to make them better not bitter, stronger not weaker, compassionate not insensitive.
I use to hear this expression growing up as a boy, and today as a man it holds true, "Experience is the best teacher." If you hadn't experience pain, sorrow, hate, and setbacks you couldn't appreciate pleasure, joy, love, and advancement.This is real life not your taxes, so everyone has their due season and no one is EXEMPT!
The bible says in Ephesians 6:12, " For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the ruler, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."
Poetic Thought:
Day to day adversity seems to stomp loudly like a fraternity on probate,
Take time to exhale, so the pressure won't cause you to suffocate,
Stay on the path to your purpose,
Resiliency is deep within, allow it to surface,
You can choose to turn lemons into lemonade or allow the bitterness to make you sick,
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will bring you through any conflict! ~ JD
There is an ole school 90's R&B song by the group Dru Hill that I like a lot. It's called "Tell Me" and I was listening to it just the other day. Well in the song it is referencing a man asking his woman to tell him what she need and want from him so it can be fulfilled. In the same sense but different perspective God wants us to tell him what we need and want from him but it has to be in his will for our life. He only wants the best for his sons and daughters. But we must do our part in order for blessings to manifest and conflicts to be resolved peacefully. Stay encourage! Until next time, class dismiss!!!
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