December 2024

Not long ago, I started reading a book about a family dealing with many issues. Each member of the family had their own significant challenge: divorce, physical limitations caused by an accident, and the onset of Alzheimer’s. Their plates were full, their emotions were overloaded, and none of them seemed to recognize the fact the others had life issues as well. The personal pain they were stuck in obscured their peripheral vision.

I haven’t had a chance to finish the book, yet, but was blessed with a huge takeaway from the first couple of chapters:

         We cannot be so consumed with our own lives that we don’t see those around us struggling, especially our family.

Encouragement

In the book, the daughter was living in denial of her divorce. The father was angry because of his physical condition and restrictions. He took his anger out on his wife verbally when she would forget to bring him food. The mom/wife couldn’t understand why she was so forgetful. Each of them focused on their respective circumstances and  couldn’t see the pain the others experienced. God forbid that take place in our homes, Lyfe readers!

It is true we must know how to encourage ourselves, as the Bible says David did in 1 Samuel 30:6 when he was greatly distressed. It is also true, however, that we are to encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11) even though it may not always be convenient to do so. Yet, as family members, shouldn’t we?

Considering the state of our nation and communities today. I venture to say every resident under your roof, including you, is having a challenge with some aspect of life. Is your family able to have an open dialogue to prevent the pressures of life from becoming unbearable for anyone of you? If they haven’t been able to verbalize it, can you see a change in their demeanor or behavior which may indicate an unspoken concern they are working through?

Reasonable Expectation

Has your husband or wife become increasingly irritable? Has your son or daughter become distant, withdrawn, or disconnected? What about your mother or father, do they seemed uncharacteristically frustrated? Chances are good it is because they are dealing with a problem not yet expressed.

A reasonable expectation of family, especially those within the same household, should be support and encouragement. A concerned, listening ear may be the only thing our loved one needs. Pressing beyond the issues of our own lives long enough to provide that support and encouragement could prove beneficial for everyone.

My heart hurt for the family depicted in the book. Although it was a work of fiction, written to shed light on Alzheimer’s awareness, it was representative of actual families in households which may be similar to yours and mine. I don’t know how their story ends but it has inspired me to be more aware of those around me and what they may be struggling with. Support, encouragement, love, and compassion are the fabric that holds families together.

Read more amazing articles by Shawn-Ta Wilson

Shawn-Ta Wilson

The pandemic has many of us feeling like Bill Murray’s character Phil in the movie Groundhog Day. We wake up and the new day seems to be a carbon copy of the one before. Our activities have become limited and all too familiar at the break of dawn. The past two mornings I have woken up with the Groundhog Day mentality. For those working from home during this time, you may be able to relate!

We’re doing the same thing, day after day. If we thought we were bound to a routine before the current global crisis, it most certainly feels that way now.

As I recall, the story line of the movie Groundhog Day was centered on the cynicism of Phil’s personality. His outlook didn’t appear to be positive and he saw nothing good in his work assignment. For reasons never made clear in the movie, Phil was forced to live the same day over and over again. But then there was one day when things changed; or was it his perspective that changed? Once he began to see the good in that particular day, which happened to be our nationally recognized Groundhog Day, he was blessed to move on to the next day and really begin living and enjoying life. Being able to find the positive in situations is the byproduct of the shift to a positive mindset.

As I’ve thought more about the phenomenon which took place in the movie, I began to realize there are at least two kinds of Groundhog Day experiences we can have: physical and emotional.

Staying safer at home during the COVID-19 crisis has caused many to experience the physical Groundhog Day syndrome. No matter what our routine consists of, we are doing it each day and every day, and have been for several weeks now. What’s new and exciting in that? Not much, I think you will agree.

Bill Murray’s character was challenged to eventually find some good in his day; otherwise they were all bound to remain the same. To break the monotony of our physical Groundhog Day syndrome during the pandemic, it may be wise of us to do the same. Are we searching for the silver lining in the cloud called mundane?  Using this forced downtime as productively as possible would serve us all well. Pre-pandemic, many people would often make statements such as, “I wish I had time to (fill in the blank).” Well, that time is here! Have you accomplished anything from your ‘wish’ list? Regardless of the tragic reason we now find an abundance of free time or at-home time on our hands, we can salvage something good. Remember, the word of God says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Rom 8:28)

The physical Groundhog Day syndrome will take a concerted and conscientious effort to break free from. It is a mindset which has to be broken. As is often said, “Where the mind goes, the body will follow”. If we are going to DO something different (break the monotony), we must first THINK differently!

Focus on being intentional during this time. Do your part in ensuring some good comes from this season.

Breaking the emotional Groundhog Day syndrome will take much more than sheer effort. Honesty, faith, resolve, and determination are required. Used collectively, these are the tools which can successfully move us beyond an emotional Groundhog Day experience to living the abundant life Jesus intended us to have (John 10:10).

We relive what happened, over and over again in our minds. We continually think about what didn’t go right. Wondering constantly where we would be had we made a different choice.  All of this affects and infects are heart! It causes us to live defeated and condemned. What happened (or didn’t happen) to us does not define us and surely should not limit us!

I believe, however, that you will be well on your way to healing your bleeding heart and saying goodbye to the emotional Groundhog Day syndrome if you commit yourself to doing the following:

Acknowledge with Honesty

We have deal with our personal truths for emotional healing to take place. If we don’t face what hurt us we cannot live in victory. We will remain stagnant in a very bad emotional place.

In part, Jeremiah 31:19 says, “I was ashamed and also humiliated because I bore the reproach of my youth.” Youth simply means the season of life when we didn’t know any better. When we know better, we are able to do better.

Are you holding on to the reproach (disappointment) of a decision made in your spiritual youth? Is it anger or resentment towards someone for something they did against you which you are refusing to let go of?

Release Yourself

“There is therefore no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1) Condemnation is not from God; all the more reason to work diligently to shed it.

Forgive yourself. Boot the enemy off of your shoulder who keeps speaking into your ear and telling you how wrong you were for what you did. Forgive yourself. Yes, I wrote that at the beginning and the end of the same sentence because we all need to hear it more often! The enemy has become proficient at reminding us of our short-comings and it’s time we stop listening to the accuser!

Pray. Wait. Do.

“Casting all your care upon him; for he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings of eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

With a sincere heart that wants to move out of an emotional Groundhog Day season, bring the matter to the Lord in prayer. Leave it in His capable hands. Hold your head high and walk forward, forgetting the things of the past!

While our days are not literally on repeat as in the move Groundhog Day, emotionally it can feel that way if we haven’t properly dealt with the trauma of what hurt us.

Gospel artist Troy Sneed, who lost his life this month due to COVID-19, recorded a wonderful song titled “Move Forward”. If you have not heard it, please check it out. Here are some of the poignant lyrics:

“It’s over. I came through it. God used it to make me better.”

You came through it.

Let God use it to make you better.

Shawn-Ta Wilson is the author of two powerful and motivating books, “Survival by Faith” and “Speak Lord”. Both can be purchased on Amazon.

Follow Shawn-Ta Wilson:

Facebook: Like Shawn-Ta’s Facebook Page

Instagram: Follow Shawn-Ta on Instagram

Commentary: The State Of Our Schools Today

Distractions, they are rampant. How much is academic learning really taking place in our schools with all the distractions our children and their teachers encounter each day? There are as many shelter-in-place drills as awards ceremonies. That’s a problem. It seems the children are taught their ABCs according to active shooter scenarios instead of “A is for Apple; B is for Boy.” That’s a problem.

The rules of the classroom are made clear, such as no cell phone usage during class. Yet, enforcing the policy creates an even greater distraction. Ignoring the infraction, however, lessens that student’s ability to grasp the concepts the teacher is attempting to teach.

Parent-teacher conferences have become more confrontational: “I bought Johnnie that cell phone. Who are you to tell him he can’t use it? And by the way, why is Johnnie failing your class?” Really?

“Why do you want Melody to address you as sir when you ask her a question? As long as she answers the question, that’s good enough.”

Parents now have to explain to their elementary age children why boys are using the girls bathroom and vice versa.

Kim is not in class today because she was reported missing after school yesterday. Her parents don’t know where she is and neither do her friends. A student may worry, “If it happened to Kim, will it happen to me?” At the same time, Kim’s teacher is concerned and worried about Kim’s safety. The teacher is well aware there are more unfortunate endings to these stories than happy ones.

While being bullied because they have two moms and no father, children endeavor to learn what is being taught in the classroom.

Kevin tries to concentrate in class but it’s hard when he’s hungry. Both of his parents work but towards the end of the month, they still struggle to provide for their family.
Our schools are underfunded and teachers grossly underpaid for the critical role they play in the development of our children. Yet, we expect the teachers to make up the difference of supplies needed in the classroom. And generally, because of the love they have for their students and passion to see them excel, they will.

We are forced to talk to our children about pedophiles because their teacher, coach, or principal may be one. It’s not safe or wise to allow our kids to develop a personal relationship with them anymore.

The age-old problems are still prevalent as well: Black vs. White (and other racial divides), peer pressure to dress a certain way (name brand clothes), bullying of the kids deemed weak, etc.

How much time is left in the classroom for academic learning once our kids and their teachers fight through all of these distractions?

Learning is taking place within the walls of our schools, but not as much in the way of academics as there should be. Our children are learning they are not safe anywhere; not at the bus stop, on the bus, in school, or on the walk home afterward. They are falsely learning the world is about them because parents allow them to think no one has healthy authority over them. They are learning a twisted definition of respect: I can do what I want because I am my own person.

The state of our schools may seem in overwhelming despair but there is hope for positive outcomes. Not all teachers are a danger. Not all parents are uncooperative. Not all students are disrespectful. And, certainly, not all coaches are child molesters.

None of us should be so disheartened that we give up trying to make a difference; whether we are a teacher, parent, or student.

Through all of the challenges faced by students and teachers in a sometimes chaotic environment, they can acquire and enhance necessary life skills such as compassion and understanding of differences, perseverance, discernment (at an early age for students) as to who is trustworthy and who is not, an increased ability to focus in distracting settings, and a heightened awareness of their surroundings. While these may not be stated as objectives on the syllabus at the beginning of the year, they are certainly by-products made possible by the state of our schools today.

Click here to read more articles by Shawn-Ta Wilson.

Purchase “Survival by Faith”, the novel by Shawn-Ta Wilson from Amazon.

by Amber Singletary

I am so excited to be bring you beauty tips again! This month brings awareness to a very important issue that many women secretly have unfortunately experienced. In the United States alone there are on average 89,000 rapes reported annually. In an effort to creat a heightened awareness to rape, we got a glam quad together did a complete makeover and sat down with a young lady and CEO of Broken Silence who is a survivor of rape. Here is the exclusive interview:

Q: Broken, first you have to tell us why you carry the nick-name ‘Broken’?

A: Broken of course comes from Broken Silence, it wasn’t a name I chose, people just started calling me Broken so it grew on me.

1. When did your rape take place? Was it a stranger?

A: When I was raped I was 10 years old. I was in the 6th grade. And the person that raped me was not a stranger he was actually more like an uncle to me, one of the closest people to me at the time.

1. What made you not tell someone?

A: Well, for me I was embarrassed. I felt like I shouldn’t say anything like it was something I should in a sense, sweep under the carpet and push it to the back of my mind. So to save myself from embarrassment and the fear of what would happen if I did speak I just kept silent.

1. How did this tragedy make you felt about yourself as a young woman growing up?

A: Growing up I always felt lonely I was in a really dark place. I always kept my head covered I couldn’t trust people and most of all I hated myself. I thought I was ugly and just really wanted to kill myself. I never felt worthy of anything and I just accepted any kind of treatment from males.

1. When did you break your silence? What finally gave you the strength to speak out?

A: I broke my silence on August 6, 2012 at the age of 19. When I came out and told my story it was a build-up of emotions. I got to the point where I couldn’t take it anymore, it started to control my life. I wasn’t happy it just started to wear me like a dark shadow so I literally just came out and said it.

1. What is your mission now that you have broke your silence?

A: My mission is to now help others break their silence by speaking to youth and adults currently in Washington, DC and the Charlotte, NC area on what to do if they are in a volunerable situation and how to avoid rape from happening to them. I am actively working to open up a comfort home for victims to come where they can feel safe, have the opportunity to engage in various activities to boost self-esteem, as well as be able to talk to individuals who are also rape survivors.

1. Broken I thank you for exposing yourself and continuing to tell your story. It was not just touching, but it has moved and encouraged so many people that so many sponsors jumped at the opportunity to support your make-over. So now that you are all dolled up how did this Glam-over make you feel? And what advice can you give to women who have been a rape victim?

A: Now that I have had this makeover it helped reassure me that I am beautiful and also made me confident!! To be all dolled up it made me feel like I was getting ready for to walk the red carpet (soft laughter). The advice I would give to someone, women or men, is if you notice anything that’s not right with a person get out of the situation IMMEDIATELY or if a rape does occur tell someone!!..Always have someone you can trust and can tell them EVERYTHING!! Don’t be afraid of what will happen after you tell just speak up and let the rest fall into place!.

Q: How can people follow you and your events?

A: Sure, I can be followed on Instagram at iambrokensilence.

If you are a rape victim and need assistance please reach out to the national rape crisis line: 1.800.656.HOPE

Special thanks to the Glam Squad:

De Lisa Carol Photography, www.delisacarol.com

Bash & Boogie (Head piece), www.etsy.com/bashandboogie

Power In One, www.powerinone.com

Good Life University, www.goodlifeuniversity.com

Hair Stylist: Tilly, Visions Salon, Washington DC

Clothing Stylist: Daria Dudley, Instagram @dariadudley

Makeup: Amber Singletary, Instagram @theartist_amber

Ignite Ambition

How women can inspire other women

(Family Features) Having “it all” is a concept women have discussed and aspired to attain for nearly 40 years. Still, the conversation continues because no one has determined what having it all actually means.

A first-of-its-kind social experiment dug deeper into the choices women make in life and uncovered that female relationships often play a significant role. In collaboration with Dr. Emily Balcetis, Associate Professor of Psychology at New York University, Lean Cuisine asked women to define their “ideal life,” as part of the ItAll social experiment.

The experience explored how women answered questions alone versus in the presence of other women in their lives. The results showed that women help each other set a higher bar for themselves. In fact, 89 percent of women set more ambitious goals in the presence of other women.

Despite societal stereotypes that suggest female relationships encourage anxiety, pressure and judgment, this experiment determined that women have a positive impact on other women as an engine for ambition.

“We rarely talk about the positive power of female relationships that we saw firsthand in the ItAll experiment,” Balcetis said. “Women can encourage each other to shoot for more where it matters most, rather than working to accomplish something less fulfilling only because society says they should. Women have a truly unique way of inspiring each other to reach their own greatest potential.”

Balcetis offers these tips, which were observed during the ItAll social experiment, to support women aspiring to be the best versions of themselves:

Be a Role Model

Allowing a woman to observe and model your performance, whether in your personal or professional life, is an opportunity to give someone the courage and confidence to excel in her own right. A role model can set standards for an aspiring woman to work toward, while proving that certain goals are, in fact, attainable.

Provide Encouragement

Take stock of the women in your life, including family, friends and social and professional acquaintances. Consider where you may be able to lend support or nudge someone into higher aspirations. It might mean encouraging someone to set or achieve a certain goal, or it may mean challenging someone to take a leap, like applying for a challenging new position.

For example, the ItAll experiment first surveyed female participants individually then allowed them to express their aspirations in the presence of familiar, influential women in their lives. Life choices became less conservative when others were involved. For example, participants declared a desire for higher salaries, chose to work more hours, wanted to spend more time with friends and be more involved with children.

Start a Conversation

It’s been said that variety is the spice of life, and no place is that truer than among women working to define their own ambitions. Engage with women from different backgrounds and start important conversations that may open your eyes to unique experiences or viewpoints you hadn’t previously considered. Arming yourself with that kind of knowledge can help make your own path clearer and encourage others to be a positive force for change.

Learn more about the social experiment and discover ideas to spur ambition for your own life at youtube.com/leancuisine.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (women talking)

Just A Though Book Review

Overview

Have you ever wanted something so badly that you were willing to do anything for it?  You would lie, cheat and steal?  You would even entertain selling your soul to the highest bidder.  In Gerald C. Anderson, Sr’s, most thought-provoking short novel yet, The Lawyer, gives you a glimpse into the murk and the mire of life.

Synopsis

Paul Demonte was a pretender and a dreamer.  He was a pretender because every Sunday when he was younger, he and his family would go to church, and he would pretend to know God and Jesus.  His father would tell him the stories that he read in the Bible were stories filled with messages of hope for poor people.

Growing up Paul remembers praying to God for things that he wanted or needed.  It never happened. God never showed up and his wants or needs were never met.  This is when Paul decided he didn’t need anyone. He will have to do it on his own.  This is where his dreams all begin.

Paul wanted to be successful and make a lot of money. After college, he enrolled in law school.  He didn’t get into an Ivy League college for law school because his test scores weren’t good enough.  Paul had to settle for a mediocre law school instead.

Upon finishing law school and passing the bar, Paul felt as if he was on top of the world.  This was it!  This was his time to go and blaze his way to the top.  His dreams were finally about to come true.  Not depending on anyone especially that Jesus or God, or whoever it was, he was going to get it done by himself.  Law degree in hand will prosecute, or defend.

All the prestigious law firms rejected Paul.  He finally had to settle for the public defender’s office. Paul was ready and prepared to show the world what he knew and how he was going to do it.  It didn’t go as planned.  Paul’s colleagues would constantly ridicule him because he couldn’t win a case. Or they would bully him on the methods he was using to lay out his case.  Paul was tired and frustrated.  He would go to his favorite bar and drown his sorrows.

Mania

One evening he stumbled upon a woman that was so beautiful that he could not keep his eyes off of her. He had never seen anything like that in his life…he fell for her hook line and sinker.  She was offering things that he always wanted, he wanted to win!  How could he turn that down?  But, who was this mysterious woman with supernatural powers?

There are things in life that we know is wrong.  However, because we thirst after things, and we want things when we want them, we often end up going down the wrong path.  Paul is given a choice.  Will he take the path less traveled or will he continue to be ridiculed and bullied by his colleagues?

Conclusion

In Matthew 16:26 it says, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”

What choice would you make?

Buy The Lawyer now on Amazon.com

Good morning and happy Thursday. Seek the Lord and His strength, seek His face continually. In this passage 1 Chronicles 16:11, the Psalmist David encourages the people of God to seek, look to, pursue the Lord and His strength, His mighty power, and to also seek His face, and seek His presence continually, always, unceasingly.

The Lord is strong, He is mighty, He is omnipotent, He has all power. So no matter what you may encounter in your life remember all the wonderful things that the Lord has done, bring to mind His mighty deeds, His precious promises, not only those that are found in scripture, but reflect on all that He has done in your life, the miracles He has wrought in you, and every trial He’s brought you through.

Don’t just look to the Lord in times of trouble, distress, and hard times, and not that the Lord is hard to find, but seek, carefully search and pursue the Lord always, and at all times, because the Lord is good, His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures forever.

The Lord’s strength will strengthen you; therefore, seek the Lord for His mercy, seek His strength so that you will be able to do service, and seek His face continually and in doing so you will have joy unspeakable!

Have a good day and know that I love you so very much

Terry

Copyright 2018

Your credit score, a three-digit number, holds immense power over your financial life. It dictates your access to loans, interest rates, and even insurance premiums. A high score opens doors to financial opportunities, while a low score can leave you locked out, facing higher borrowing costs and limited options. But fear not, even the most daunting credit situation can improve with the right strategies. This guide equips you with the knowledge and actionable steps to conquer your credit score and unlock a brighter financial future.

Understanding the Credit Score Game

Before diving into strategies, let’s understand the key factors that determine your credit score:

• Payment History (35%): This is the most crucial factor. Consistent on-time payments significantly boost your score, while late payments have a severe negative impact.
• Credit Utilization Ratio (30%): This measures the amount of credit you’re using compared to your limit. Ideally, keep it below 30% for a healthy score.
• Credit Age and Mix (15%): A longer credit history with a mix of credit types (installment loans and revolving credit like credit cards) benefits your score.
• New Credit Applications (10%): Applying for too many loans or credit cards in a short period can negatively affect your score.

Building a Stellar Credit Score: Actionable Strategies

1. Become a Payment Master: Make on-time payments a priority. Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to avoid missed deadlines. Even a single late payment can significantly damage your score.
2. Conquer Your Credit Card Debt: Prioritize paying down credit card balances. Focus on cards with the highest interest rates first. Remember, it’s not just about the total amount owed, but also about keeping your credit utilization ratio low.
3. Strategic Credit Card Use: Don’t max out your credit cards. Aim to keep your revolving credit utilization below 30% for a healthy score. Consider using a credit card for everyday expenses and paying it off in full each month. This shows responsible credit card usage and helps build a positive credit history.
4. Leverage the Power of Secured Credit Cards: If you have a limited credit history, consider a secured credit card. Providing a security deposit allows you to get the card, and using it responsibly will help you build credit because it is reported to credit bureaus.
5. Become an Authorized User (Carefully): Being added as an authorized user on someone else’s credit card with a good payment history can positively affect your score. However, choose someone you trust who has a good credit history, as their late payments will also hurt your score.
6. Nurture Your Credit Age: Don’t close old credit card accounts, even if you don’t use them often. A longer credit history is viewed favorably. However, if the card has an annual fee you’re not using it, consider downgrading to a no-fee option if available.
7. Dispute Errors on Your Credit Report: It’s crucial to review your credit reports regularly (you can get a free copy from each of the three major bureaus annually) for any errors. If you find mistakes, dispute them with the credit reporting bureau and the creditor.
8. Seek Help When Needed: If you’re struggling with debt management, consider seeking help from a non-profit credit counseling agency. They can provide guidance and develop a personalized debt repayment plan.

Building a Strong Credit Score Takes Time and Discipline

Improving your credit score is a marathon, not a sprint. While some strategies, like disputing errors on your credit report, can yield faster results, consistently following healthy credit habits is key to long-term success. Be patient, stay disciplined, and celebrate your milestones. With consistent effort, you can unlock the power of a good credit score and open doors to a brighter financial future.

Financial Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Your individual credit situation is unique, and consulting with a credit counselor or financial advisor may be beneficial to determine the best course of action for you.

Read Becoming a Self Care Superhero by Dr. Vanessa Anderson

For more great content grab the latest issue of The Lyfe Magazine today!

Shots rang out and bullets tore through walls, other objects, and people. Terrified, seventeen-year-old Hannah Carbocci huddled beneath a teacher’s desk in her classroom at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. As Nikolas Cruz, a former student only two years older than Hannah, allegedly walked through the school hurting and killing students and teachers with an AR-15 assault rifle, Hannah sent text messages to her sister, Kaitlin: “kaitlin there is a shooter on campus,” “kaitlin i am not joking they just shot through the walls someone in my class is injured,” “i am so scared.”

Hannah Carbocci came away, unscathed, from this massacre on Valentine’s Day. Others weren’t so lucky, including the seventeen who lost their lives. The death toll likely would have been higher had Cruz’s gun not jammed while he still had one hundred and eighty unfired rounds.

After each mass shooting, those frustrated with the violence call for stricter gun laws, ranging from more thorough background checks to outlawing certain types of firearms and related equipment. Each time, these calls are met with resistance from the NRA and from pro-gun politicians, mostly in the Republican Party.

The National Rifle Association, commonly called the NRA, is a gun-rights organization founded in 1871. With about five million members, the group advocates for what it considers American’s right to bear arms. While the NRA has long had its critics, the increase in mass shootings in recent years has intensified the outcry against it. In the wake of the shooting in Parkland, multiple companies have officially cut ties with the organization. Enterprise Holdings, the parent company of Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo Rent a Car, and National Car Rental will cease offering NRA-member discounts. Avis Budget Group, owner of Avis and Budget Rent a Car, and Hertz committed to do the same. The First National Bank of Omaha chose not to renew its contract to issue the NRA Visa card. Other companies which have severed ties with the gun-rights group are Symantec, TrueCar, MetLife, SimpliSafe, Sirva (parent company of Allied and North American), Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Paramount RX, and hearing-aid maker Starkey.

With students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and other schools across the nation advocating for gun control, lawmakers turned their attention to the issue. Senator Jeff Flake (Republican – Arizona) is seeking to pass a law to raise, from eighteen to twenty-one, the minimum age required to purchase certain types of semi-automatic rifles. President Trump indicated he would support laws requiring better background checks for gun buyers and outlawing bump stocks, which essentially convert a semi-automatic gun into an automatic weapon. (The gunman in the recent Las Vegas mass shooting had used such a device.)

While the recent school shooting is forcing those on Capitol Hill to consider new measures to keep children and the rest of us safe, success is far from guaranteed. The NRA will not reconsider its position, choosing to frame the issue as a problem with people, rather than a problem with guns, and it contributes huge amounts of money to lawmakers. When challenged by Parkland survivors, Senator Marco Rubio (Republican – Florida) declined to comment regarding refusing contributions from the NRA. Even Democrats have not always come down on the side of gun control. In 2013, after the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary, some Dems joined Republicans to block a bill which would have required universal background checks for potential gun buyers. It will be a hard road, but it is necessary for lawmakers to implement sensible gun-control legislation.

Everybody talking about Heaven ain’t going. To receive salvation and eternal life, we must believe and confess Christ died on the cross for our sins, and on the third day He rose again. God saves us based on our confession of this belief. However, is our confession in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior enough?

In Gerald C. Anderson, Sr’s, most compelling novel, Are You Innocent, the reader goes behind the curtain of Pastor Joshua Brown’s life. Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before men in such a way they may see your good deeds and moral excellence and glorify your Father who is in Heaven.” This scripture means we should live and act in a way that honors the Father.  Pastor Brown’s life shines bright to the world, but he has a dark side.

Pastor Brown was well known in his community and an advocate for young girls that had no voice in the world. However, Pastor Brown was a much bigger advocate for his lustful desires, power, and money. Pastor Brown evolves into a man with a deep struggle with his demons.

The story reaches its peak with the murder of Pastor Brown’s wife, Vivian. Two weeks later Vivian’s brother is also murdered. The primary suspect in both murders is Pastor Brown. A determined Talisha Stewart, a victim of Pastor Brown, wants to find the truth and expose Pastor Brown for what he did to her and the murder of her mentor, Vivian.

Anderson does a marvelous job of orchestrating the characters in this novel. The antagonist, Pastor Brown will make you hate him, you’ll cry because of Vivian and if you’re like me, you will find yourself cheering for Talisha.

As you get to the end the twists will have you excited, happy and mad. Pastor Brown’s new mistress, Latisha shows who she is. The ending will have you on the edge of your seat shouting. The charge is being a follower of Jesus Christ, Are you innocent?

Visit Gerald at www.geraldcandersonsr.com