I, like many others in the world have celebrity family members (in my head 😉). While it is true that these people are not biologically related to me nor do they know me, over the years they have shared so much of their lives(even when they did not want to), that we have become family.

So…I did not watch the Whitney movie because as strange as it may sound to you, I do not want to see her story told again.  Throughout the years so much of her life has been in the public eye, so what else is there to uncover?  We have heard several variations of her life story and many “insiders” have given detailed accounts of what it was to be Whitney Houston. I sat through her entire funeral service and mourned her death along with millions of others.  Therefore, I am satisfied with remembering the amazing, God-given talent that was gifted to the world through Auntie Whitney and would like for her to rest in peace.

When the video was released for “I Look to You”, I saw the Whitney that we all grew to love in the beginning.  The classy songstress that took us on emotional roller coasters through her music.  The melodies that reminded us of what it feels like to be alive and the lyrics that showed us that there is a song for every situation.  But, I also saw a woman who had been tried by a firing squad and hung out dry.  In her beauty you could see the hope for better days (I look to you) while the strain of critics left her surrendering (after giving it my all).  Society has a strange way of worshiping celebrities one day and condemning them to death the very next day.  But wait that story sounds very familiar doesn’t it…they did it to Jesus, right?  I guess history really does repeat itself.

Chorus for Today: “As I lay me down. Heaven hear me now. I’m lost without a cause. After giving it my all. Winter storms have come. And darkened my sun. After all that I’ve been through. Who on earth can I turn to?~ I look to you

While watching the movie, Son of God, I was reminded why I live the way I do, love the way I do, and forgive the way I do.  But for the Grace of God, I would not be here.

Just as Lazarus was raised from the dead, God has brought all of us back from some dead situations(spiritual death, illness, dead-end relationships).  God has already said that “this sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God…”.  He already knew you would be placed in these situations and He has already made provisions for you to live through what you thought would kill you.

Just as Jesus waited 2 days to go back to check on Lazarus, God will wait His predetermined time to come check on you.  This does not mean He wants you to suffer, you actually play a part in when you will come out of your dead situation.  You will remain there until you decide that you cannot fix the issue and begin to totally rely on God. When you begin to totally rely on God, your light shines and others will know God by what they see in you.  When you encounter darkness, your light will emanate so that you may find your way out and just like Lazarus, you shall live.

While being interviewed, a popular correspondent was asked about her children and the appearance of a softer side since becoming a parent.  The interviewer asked what changed.  The correspondent answered, she thought that she would never have a family. Many years prior,  she experienced a tragedy and thought having a family was impossible for her.  Then she said, never give up on your dreams, no matter how long it takes to reach them.

Although you may have heard these words before, let it serve as confirmation that God is still writing your story.  Delay is not denial. Rest assured,  the plan for your life will come to pass.  Kept striving to reach your dreams.  Everyone’s story is different, do not compare your life to others because they will never look the same.  Also, from her tragedy, she was forever changed.  When God changes your life, nothing is the same.  People, places, and things will change.  In order to get to the place He’s taking you, you must also emerge a new creature.  You have to trust that no matter what it looks like, God is still in control!

Philippians 1:6…Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

Tonight after Florida State won the BCS Championship, Jameis said he had to remember he has a team for a reason.  He went out in the first half trying to destroy the opponent himself, forgetting he did not have to fight this battle alone.

In life, God assigns us all the people and resources necessary to reach our destinies.  It is up to us to allow the people placed in our paths to fulfill their purpose.  Often times we cut off our blessing because we do not make our needs known.  God has already put someone in place to meet our needs but we try to do everything on our own.  Independence is a necessary trait but you must not let your independence hinder your dependence on God.

I am so thankful for my family and friends who stand in the gap for me.  My son is best, not because he’s perfect but because he is my biggest supporter and cheerleader.  He thinks I’m pretty awesome and randomly likes to tell me that he loves me.  As a parent you can only hope your children are proud of what you do and who you become.  My family and friends encourage me every step and always pray for me.  No matter what my profession is or how many times I stumble, they are there.  I am covered, God assembled the perfect group of imperfect people who I needed.

Always remember, you are not alone, you have a team for a reason.  Am I my brother’s keeper?

Chorus for today: “When he’s pushed to the edge, when he’s out on a ledge, can I help him to think with his heart.  When he’s wrong,  when he’s right, I’ll be there to remind him, that he’s made in the image of God.  When he’s struggles with troubles, he needs to know that his mistakes don’t define his life.  I’m a living example that there is a chance for redemption on the other side.
Am I my brother’s keeper? Yes I am!~IA

During an interview, a musician stated that he has already died and is now living his second life.

Often times we take for granted that tomorrow isn’t promised.  We don’t see the figurative bullets we’ve dodged or train-wrecks that have been diverted.  This particular person actually experienced a near death accident but for some, it’s the moment that you realized you wanted to give your life to God.  You were doing any and everything you wanted to do because you thought you were in control. But, there is a feeling so refreshing and satisfying  when we finally decide to accept that God is the beginning and the end of our lives.  This awakening will be met with hardship, pain, and obstacles.   You will see new enemies and less friends.  Just remember, the end goal is not to be perfect but to live your life with purpose.  There should be a boldness about you because you are now standing firm on the word of God.  The point he made was,  he is not even supposed to be here so he’s living his best life now.  To me that speaks volumes regarding what we as Christians are supposed to do.  When you gave your life to God, you made the choice to change and live your best life now.

So…what are you doing with your second chance to get it right?

Chorus for today:  So use me as you will, I’ll pay the price, ’cause made the ultimate sacrifice.  It’s all because of you, that I even have life and I’ll give my love, as a tribute, to how great you are…Sight beyond what I see, you know what’s best for me.  Prepare my mind, prepare my heart for whatever comes, I’m gone’ be ready~YA

Today I saw the movie The Butler.   Not only did I get a look into the life of  the butler, I saw a glimpse of the world surrounding him.  I saw relationships fall apart and be rebuilt.  I saw wars, internal and external.  Most importantly, I saw people on all different walks of life trying to figure it all out.  The movie was insightful and thought-provoking.  I wanted to share a little of  what I saw but please go see it for yourself.  It reminded me that there is always so much more than what we see on the surface;  In life we have choices, even when we think we don’t;  Everything won’t feel good but they will work as they should; and Often times we struggle so the next person won’t have to.

Mothers-life doesn’t come with a manual, you will make mistakes.  Communication will always be the key.  Our kids need to know that we love them and we don’t expect perfection. Our husbands need us to love, support, and inspire them.  Remember you’re not perfect and no one expects you to be.

Fathers-although your wife needs to know you can take care of your family, it means nothing if you’re not there to show her that you love her and that she plays an important role in your life.  Your children need to know you can take care of them but they need to know you love them more.  They need to know that you support them even when you don’t necessarily agree with their decisions.  Remember you’re not perfect and no one expects you to be.

Leaders-although people depend on you to have all the answers, you’re human and will get things wrong.  Learning from your mistakes is important.  You have a support staff for a reason, you don’t know everything.  Remember you’re not perfect and no one expects you to be.

Children-one of the most difficult things you have to realize is, your parents are not perfect.  They will make mistakes.  Your parents will also do whatever they have to in order to make your life better than theirs.  Never take that for granted.  Remember you’re not perfect and no one expects you to be.

The main point I took away from the movie is that, no matter who you are, you have an impact in the world.  Never think because you hold a specific position, you’re less important.  You might not change the world but you could be the voice in the person’s ear that does. Think of all those who have made an impact in the world, someone said something to spark  or heighten their curiosity to step out and reach for something further than their eyes could see.

Today, go be GREAT!!!  Someone is looking for exactly what you have to offer,