Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit

I Hope You Dance

2012-01-28T20:48:00.001-05:00

Image Credit: Amazon.com

According to Wikipedia, dance is defined as an art form that generally refers to movement of the body, usually rhythmic and to music used as a form of expression, social interaction or presented in a spiritual or performance setting.

When you listen to the words of the song “I Hope You Dance” recorded by Lee Ann Womack, you will hear that it is not just about dancing in the physical sense, but about the act of embracing life and living it with expectation, enthusiasm, hope and determination. Such an emotionally charged song makes you think about time and the fact that you should not waste it on frivolousness and then wonder where the years have gone.

Give faith the fighting chance…and dance!

Video Credit: YouTube

Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2012-01-15T19:34:00.000-05:00

1929-1968

“These are revolutionary times; all over the globe men are revolting against old systems of exploitation and oppression. The shirtless and barefoot people of the world are rising up as never before. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light…We must move past indecision to action…If we do not act, we shall surely be dragged down the long, dark, and shameful corridors of time reserved for those who possess power without compassion, might without morality, and strength without sight.”

Martin Luther King, Jr.

April 4, 1967

Out of the Darkness and Into the Light

2012-01-11T19:02:00.002-05:00

It is amazing that some people believe what is done in the darkness will remain hidden. Many people are nocturnal by nature, dwelling in the corridors of darkness where they are hidden from the light of exposure. Darkness can leave you blind and lost, spiritually and metaphorically speaking. It can make you feel fearful and insecure. Even in the depths of the blanket of nightfall, without the light of the moon or twinkling stars, you can wander around aimlessly, bumping into or stumbling over the smallest of things that can trigger the most pain.

At times, people and situations want to suck you into their world of darkness, only to keep you hidden from the light of safety, peace, love, revelation and hope! As we follow our Biblical principles, we know that Jesus is the Light of the World. As we dwell in our physical world, pause and examine whether you want to light up someone else’s life or do you want to shadow their world with darkness. It’s clear to see that your attitude, behavior and influence can either brighten someone’s night or darken their day.

Diversion from Distractions

2012-01-03T19:30:00.000-05:00

When most of us rang in 2012, we did so with great anticipation, gratitude and jubilation. Come on now, we were blessed and able to see another new year. Thank God for that! After getting up later in the morning on this first day, we were hit with news of the first murder in the city, a story on the front page in a section of the newspaper reporting a bleak outlook on the economy for this year and low and behold, there is an arsonist on a rampage torching cars and homes. A few of the anchors on television said, “Well the new year is off to a bad start!”

After reading the depressing newspaper article and watching the news on television, I listened to a sermon televised by Dr. Charles Stanley that gave the message “Confidence That Conquers!” His main points emphasized the type of attitude that is not conducive to confidence and the positive attitudes that attribute to confidence. He pointed out that we must not confuse confidence with arrogance. Big difference! Here are 3 points that stood out in my mind:

1. We can be self-defeaters

2. Your past should not be in front of you

3. Confidence is based on your relationship with God

If I wallow in the predictions that the economy looks less optimistic this year than before, then I will think that and believe it. If I buy into the notion that this year is off to a bad start because I heard of the first murder and someone setting fires to property that people worked hard to buy, then I will feel depressed and adopt the attitude that this year is really off to a bad start.

I am certainly not naïve to the fact that this year will present some very positive things, and along with it, there will be some challenges. However, I will not mull over the adversity as much as I will keep my focus on what God has divinely designed and has in store for me and for us. I am not insensitive to the tragic things that are happening around me, because we all have and will face tragedy at some point and time in our lives.

So in spite of the not-so-great news on this first day, there was the first birth of the new year, the excitement of the people who celebrated the new year all around the world and the fact that I was blessed and able to rise and see a brand new day that I never witnessed before. That is hope! That is my start, my “good” start to a brand new year!

Happy 2012 Everyone!

2011-12-30T01:29:00.002-05:00

Just as the sun rises above the horizon, so comes our anticipation and excitement of the opportunities and possibilities that 2012 will bring. We embrace this defining moment as we stand at the intersection of 2011 and 2012. As we glance back at the road we traveled in 2011, we realize that there is no turning back. Right now we have to face 2012 with courage, hope and determination. Amid the ups and downs, joys and sorrows and the roller coaster of emotions that we face, we still look forward to this new year of promise. We can't sit back and idly watch things happen, then find ourselves in the same place or in a worse predicament this time next year. You can't expect new and different results with the same old attitude and behavior. If you want to change, you have to make the effort and do it!

On that note...Happy New Year Everyone!

Have You Ever Seen the Rainbow in a Drop of Water?

2011-12-18T10:04:00.001-05:00

Condensation periodically builds up on my windows throughout the night, which is not an uncommon occurrence. Sometimes, when you least expect it, you will look at something and it makes you go “hmmm”. This happened this morning as I walked past one of my windows. Although this particular window does not face the sun directly, an iridescent prism from a single drop of water on the window reflected so majestically, that I had to back up and examine it closely.

Somehow, the sun’s reflection indirectly permeated one of the water drops on my window and an amazingly sharp prism of colors beamed like the facets in a diamond. It was definitely one of those “stop, look and reflect” moments. If I simply ignored that water drop, I would have missed this amazing performance of the sun dancing in all of its grandeur, on a single drop of water that seemed so insignificant, but served its purpose with a dignified pose. Two minutes later, the sun shifted and the prism of colors had their final curtain call, as that drop of water trickled down the window.

Today We Celebrate Human Rights Day!

2011-12-10T23:29:00.000-05:00

On Human Rights Day, we pay tribute to all human rights defenders and urge everyone to get involved in the global human rights movement. Become a human rights activist for your local, national and global brothers and sisters. Sixty-Three years ago, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was created. Many people around the world do not have a voice or the freedom to express their opinions beyond their thoughts.

Let’s take a moment to thank God that we have the freedom in our country to embrace and voice our human rights in the fight for liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Celebrate Human Rights Day!

Racism in Church? It Does Exist!

2011-12-04T19:39:00.002-05:00

It was such a tragic shock to hear about The Gulnare Freewill Baptist Church, a small church in Kentucky, voting to ban interracial couples from church services or functions, with the exception of funerals. It’s so unfortunate that although some members in the congregation did not support this ban, the message resonated loud and clear among Christians around the world who were aghast by the type of racism that continues to be prevalent in our society. However, bringing this poison inside of the church is alarming, although not surprising.

Somehow many Bible toting “Christians” manage to blot out and ignore critical mandates outlined and explained in the Bible, that we are charged to do and uphold. What happened to the voices of the Christians who sit in the corner and say nothing? I remember reading a quote by Martin Luther King, Jr. that states: “History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of the good people.”

When I think about the letters that John wrote to the seven churches, there were a number of things he warned these churches (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea) what they needed to correct, that was out of step with God. Although this is an extremely small church, this sad message resonates among the masses of Christians, non-Christians and agnostics who think it’s hard to prove whether or not God even exists. This message of racism is only one of the many atrocities that’s occurring in churches everywhere, which is ultimately chipping away and trying to destroy the foundation of our Christian belief system and existence.

How can we expect to win, if we continue to keep our mouths closed when we really need to take a stand and speak righteousness? Fortunately, as of this morning the new Pastor of Gulnare Freewill Baptist Church announced that this vote was null and void. Let’s hope and pray that all parties involved will fall to their knees, pray, forgive and overcome such tragedy. Although this small church attracted a lot of attention regarding this matter, this should make all of us take a look at what we do and say, how we behave and respond. Sadly, racism isn’t the only problem we have in our churches! Obedience holds the key!

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” - Revelation 1:3

Beyond the Celestial View

2011-12-03T15:49:00.001-05:00

Gazing upon a clear starry night
when all is calm except for croaking frogs
and singing crickets
from where we stand,
how far do the heavens go?
Do they reach beyond the sky’s edge
further away than we can humanly grasp?
Is the view from up there
as intriguing as the view from down here?
This panoramic sculpture of the mystical heavens
not knowing if other life forms exist
beyond this celestial environment
we simply marvel at the awesome wonders of God.

Lights in the firmament
dividing night from day
signs for seasons, days and years
casting light upon the earth
light governing the darkness
shining, twinkling, showers of heavenly bodies
wondering how they got positioned.
When you see a shooting star
do you wonder where it goes?

Under this dome of night lights
watching life forever evolve
when on the fourth day of creation
God saw that this was good
a sacred gift to sit back and enjoy.
Not to tire oneself of questioning the how’s,
when’s or why’s
just accept this for what it is
for many questions will always be asked.

When life ends for us on earth as we know it
our souls will be whisked away
to an eternal resting place
infinity beyond our inconceivable comprehension.
Maybe then, we will be able to touch the face
of these heavenly bodies in the distance
or reach beyond this celestial view
to meet our Creator from where we are.

Poem published by Kym Gordon Moore in Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit, 2009

What Keeps You Grounded?

2011-11-27T12:14:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of this year, I made a commitment to do something each day to remind myself that I must stay grounded as much as possible, if not at all times. My goal was to make a gratitude journal that only included the things I am grateful for each day. That’s it, plain and simple. Nothing complexed.

My main challenge was to be committed each day to write an entry of gratitude, regardless of how my day went. God used this task to remind me of how humble and grateful I must remain. On some days, I was simply grateful that God’s wrath did not rain down on me due to an un-Godly thought, un-Godly speech or my behavior. On days like that, I have to thank God that I recognized my shortcomings and asked His forgiveness. As of this day, I have to say that since January 1, 2011, I made an entry into my Gratitude Journal every single day. Sometimes I am reminded to do it before I go to bed and on other days, I make an entry earlier in the day. This daily task was a little difficult at times, but more often than not, it was the one thing that helped me to be reminded of how awesome God is.

With the help of The Lord, I try to not become entrapped with me, myself and I, which could lead to the hazards of making unwise decisions that will catapult into mass destruction. I think when you recognize and acknowledge your spiritual groundedness, your spiritual senses are awakened with a renewed sense of purpose, awareness and direction. When I rest in assurance that God is in control, then I will find contentment in His perpetual love, peace, joy and blessings.

So in the midst of things going right or awry, what keeps you grounded every single day?

Thanksgiving Day Wishes!

2011-11-24T09:02:00.000-05:00

“Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.”
- Psalm 95:2 NIV

Up all night preparing your Thanksgiving Day feast? Well, before you take a bite out of any of those delectables, be sure to really reflect on the true essence of what the word thanksgiving means. There are so many people in our communities and around the world hurting and hungry right now trying to find a soup kitchen in order to get a meal today or any other day through the week.

Let us not take for granted the things that so many would consider a luxury, which includes overcoming hunger and homelessness. Stop and look at your holiday spread, look at your loved ones who you are surrounded by, examine your surroundings and remember that this day and any other day is not about your selfish pride, but about how you can be the servant and contributor to society that God needs for you to be. Thanksgiving is not about one day of the year, but about every day throughout the year.

Have a Safe, Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
- Psalm 100:4 NIV

An Ethereal Optical Illusion

2011-11-22T00:22:00.000-05:00

As with most of the population, I needed the assistance of wearing corrective lens since I was in the 3rd grade. So, for ¾ of my life, in order to see clearly I needed eyeglasses, contact lens and sometimes both. As I get more mature (I simply refrain and sometimes cringe from saying the word older), fine print smaller than a 12 point font size becomes difficult to focus, especially if I have been on the computer for extended periods of time.

A few nights ago, I went to bed about 1:00 in the morning. After turning the lights off and removing my glasses to go to bed, through the Palladian window in my bathroom came the glow of a beautiful half moon. I had to stop for a moment before getting in my bed, put my glasses back on and moon gaze for a moment.

After standing there for a couple of minutes staring at the moon, I saw this night star as I have never seen it before. I took my glasses off and peered at the moon again. Due to my nearsightedness, the moon appeared full, not half. Although with my glasses on, my focus was clearer and I saw the moon as it actually appeared that night. However, the feeling I felt with my glasses off defined a different, spiritual emotion for me.

I love absorbing the sight of a full moon each month. It simply makes me look up to the heavens and take in this awesome night light and everything surrounding it. But since I missed seeing the full moon this month due to inclimate weather, this moment was one that made me look and visualize the fullness of its brilliance in a completely different light (no pun intended). Although this was an ethereal optical illusion, that moment of what I thought I saw, made me realize that God has a way of allowing you to see, what others look at but do not see, even if you are nearsighted like me.

Celebrating Veterans Day: Thank You

2011-11-11T23:21:00.001-05:00

Happy Veterans Day!

In celebration of Military Appreciation Month, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of our veterans and active military personnel serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. We are grateful to all of our men and women who continue to protect the host of freedoms that we enjoy and often take for granted.

To the families of these amazing and heroic soldiers, we understand how difficult it is when your loved ones are scheduled for deployment, especially to hostile territory. I salute all of our courageous men and women of the armed forces for your bravery in serving our country every single day. Thank you!

International Day of Prayer

2011-11-05T21:02:00.002-04:00

On Sunday November 13, 2011 (the second Sunday), millions of people will participate in International Day of Prayer. Around the world, many Christians continue to be denied or persecuted for their freedom of religion. The purpose of International Day of Prayer is to pray fervently for Christians who are suffering, as well as for their oppressors, to raise awareness and urge advocacy on behalf of their faith.

I am a strong believer in the power of prayer. Although it may seem like they are not answered sometimes, they are. The answers may not be in the context of how we want them answered. So often society complains about horrific occurrences that we witness directly or indirectly. We frequently cry out about what needs to be done about these tragedies, but we fail to fall on our knees and seek God’s guidance for a peaceful resolve. If we join together in fervent prayer and abide by God’s principles (not simply a principle that is easy and convenient for us, but all of them) we could see some remarkable changes and amazing miracles happen around the world.

Let’s look beyond International Day of Prayer and commit to praying daily for all of our brothers and sisters who are being oppressed unrighteously.

We Can't Forget, No Matter What!

2011-10-31T07:38:00.000-04:00

As we reach the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with all of the marathons, races, walks, Zumbathons and other charitable events that helped to raise money for breast cancer research, we cannot allow the fight for this and other noteworthy causes to end. Many friends of mine, who passed away from a tireless fight to survive this disease over the years, departed this life when their time came. I cannot forget them, no matter how many years have passed.

Many new friends I made over the years are breast cancer survivors. I look at their insatiable thirst for life and their celebration of victory that is a clear reminder to not sit and sulk over mediocrity that robs us of our valuable time and will to live. An old adage my mother used to say when I was growing up, “You don’t miss the water til the well runs dry” is one I don’t take lightly, because I see evidence of this more often than I care to. As I experience the rain showers and storms in my life, I must celebrate because the rainstorms refill my well when my water level is low.

Whether our losses come through losing loved ones or friends who we love dearly to the ugliness of cancer, heart disease, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, MS, AIDS, fatal accidents and numerous other causes, let us remember to live a life of service and gratitude. Let’s focus on what we have instead of what we don’t. I remember watching the movie “The Family That Preys” and throughout all of the lessons in the movie, the one line I remember the most was “Are You Livin’ or Are You Just Existin’.” I don’t know about you, but I choose life!

“For when I am weak, then I am strong. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

- Philippians 4:13

Are We Bombarded With Too Many Choices?

2011-10-29T16:29:00.000-04:00

I was in the grocery store today picking up a few things and often I find myself taking longer to shop for bargains like the “Buy One Get One Free” deals, especially if I have a coupon for them. I stood in the bread section looking at which loaf of wheat bread should I choose, Merita, Sara Lee, Natures Own, Pepperidge Farm, Arnold or the store brand. Along comes a gentleman who stands staring at the bread as a lady and I were doing and said, you know, when I was in Europe, I didn’t have all of these choices to make just to buy a simple loaf of bread. Then he casually walked away to go pay for his purchase. Now that really did hit the bell in my head.

For some reason with all of the choices that we have, we can become stressed from trying to make a decision on what to choose, when it should be a simple task. Think about this; women try to decide on which shoes to wear that matches a certain outfit and then toy with what accessories to put with it. When people go shopping for a car, so many optional features, colors, interior fabrics and body styles leave us bewildered on which vehicle to purchase. When men shop for tennis shoes, there are so many brands, colors, purposes and styles beyond the traditional sneaker that they take just as long to shop for shoes as women normally do.

Are we so overwhelmed with choices in literally every aspect of our lives that we fret over decisions that should be simple, like choosing which loaf of the same type of bread to select? Here again, is a classic example of how spoiled we can be, yet how extremely blessed we are. Many people in our society unfortunately do not have the luxury of pondering over what type of bread to buy. They are grateful for a loaf of bread…plain and simple.

Perhaps we need to look within the borders of our environment and see if we really have too much “access” to too much “excess!” It is often said that the more choices we have the more freedom we have. Sometimes I often wonder if that freedom can turn into bondage. We must then decide if it is advantageous to keep our excess or to share it with others.

Beyond the Disappointments!

2011-10-18T20:37:00.002-04:00

Every day is a time of reflection for all of us. All too often, a swarm of dis-tractions, disappointments and depression take their jabs at me relentlessly. However, I refuse to be defeated. As I gaze beyond these distractions, disappointments and depression, I stand wearing my “whole” armor of God against the wiles of these demons. This helps me to deflect defeat.

I am determined to remain disciplined in order to find that Divine purpose to give me the diligence I desire to develop a spiritual and productive lifestyle. The weapons that form against me may knock me down, but they cannot knock me out. I am more than a conqueror and as I trek through the storms, I can see the twinkle of sunlight that helps me to keep hope alive!

My Spiritual Moment in 3-D!

2011-10-09T19:44:00.000-04:00

This morning as I walked outside to breathe in the crisp autumn air, I looked up and thanked God for allowing me to witness a new day that I will never see again. I am so grateful for this moment of tranquility to worship, rejoice and be grateful.

As I gazed at the beautiful morning sky, I had a spiritual “a-ha” moment. The cool breeze was gently blowing as the sun began to rise. The rays from the sun cast a creamy beige hue over billows of clouds drifting overhead. Simply breathtaking! What was so striking to me was at that moment I could look beyond these drifting fluffy clouds and the sky was a beautiful marine blue with milk white brush strokes of clouds that accented the heavens.

In this moment, I felt like I was watching a movie in 3-D, but this view was not generated through cinematography effects. I felt I could reach up and touch each layer of this panoramic presentation. I was literally mesmerized by this ethereal 3-Dimensional snapshot of the heavens that made me stand in silence and simply say “Wow!”

Steve Jobs Left His Visionary Mark

2011-10-06T18:57:00.003-04:00

1955-2011

Around the world, many people are remembering the life, times and influence of Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Computer. My first computer was an Apple Macintosh 700 series and it was so user friendly that it made me computer literate in no time at all. Like so many people who make their mark in history, whether they are famous, rich or not, you have to admire Steve Jobs for his contributions to change the face of modern technology.

As I read many tributes to this innovative man, I saw this remarkable 1 minute commercial that he narrated, but unfortunately never debuted. In 1997, TBWA/Chiat/Day, an advertising agency created Apple's "Think Different" ad campaign. It is such a poignant commercial that perhaps if Apple decides to broadcast this now, it will make an even bigger impact on the way people think, create and inspire.

Thank you from everyone you inspired and encouraged Steve, whether you knew us or not. May God Bless and strengthen your family during this time.

Team Church Zumba Joins a Child’s Place with Sweet Dreams Campaign

2011-10-02T16:17:00.000-04:00

potterybarn.com

It is hard to believe that there are so many children in our neck of the woods who are unfortunate victims of homelessness. The simple conveniences that we take for granted each day is a luxury for these children and their families.

There are over 4,700 homeless children enrolled in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school system. Statistics say that:

• Homeless children go hungry twice as the rate of other children.

• The national average graduation rate for homeless children is less than 25%.

• Homeless children are twice as likely to repeat a grade.

• Homeless children experience emotional and behavioral problems three times more than their housed peers do.

• Homeless children are sick four times as often as other children are.

A Child’s Place is trying diligently to reach these children. Sweet Dreams is a campaign to collect at least 1,200 pajamas for children from the 2nd grade to the 8th grade. These pajamas must be collected by December 4th so that they can be distributed to these children on Christmas Eve. Zumba members from Team Church in Matthews, NC, led by Zumba Instructor Dania Mazier Tschirhart are striving to double that amount of pajamas with the help of some of their partners from Butler High School, Chic-fil-A in the Arboretum and Albemarle, along with other partners who will be announced soon.

For additional information about the Sweet Dreams Campaign, you may contact Dania at zumba@teamchurch.com.

Finding a Piece of Paradise Where You Are

2011-09-29T20:08:00.001-04:00

Sometimes we become entrapped by the haste that surrounds us daily, whether it involves our jobs, family, extracurricular activities, our human interactions or even while we are at school. We all too often become entrapped by distractions that puts a veil over our physical and spiritual senses, sending us into a state of overwhelm, anxiousness and frustration. This often leads to a myriad of personal health issues, unfortunate experiences and unexpected circumstances.

Regardless of whether you live in the city, suburbs or country it is imperative that in order to maintain some sense of stability and peace within your mind, body and spirit, you must find a designated time and space where you can escape to an environment of tranquility. There is no need in trying to wait until you take a vacation to find your piece of paradise. Whether it is a designated spot on your deck, in your yard, in a quiet nook in your house, a particular place at a nearby park, lake, beach or mountains, just rest assured that if you really want to, you could create a place and space to meditate, pray, relax and release every single day. Where is your favorite place of paradise?

Do We Shut Our Doors of Opportunity?

2011-09-22T05:25:00.001-04:00

Door of Opportunity

At times, our haste and complacency causes us to lose our focus and purpose for what God needs for us to do. All too often, people see the greater things they want, yet do not conquer the smaller ones before taking that fateful leap. This causes us to end up diving in head first into a situation where there is no water to soften the collision. We do not heed the warning signs to stop, pray, gather our thoughts and pay attention to how you need to proceed with the task at hand. Instead, we sometimes handle things through emotion, frustration or impatience and fail to learn the important lessons we need to learn, in order to stand firm on a solid foundation.

Sometimes in our thoughtlessness and through our irrational actions, we can burn valuable bridges, underutilize our talents and gifts, or simply close a door of tremendous opportunity. Our impatience, hurriedness, arrogance and attitude will inevitably destroy us if we do not heed the clear warnings that God gives us, simply because we devised an alternative solution to try to force “our way” on others.

Be wise and refuse to allow your gift(s) and talent(s) to be wasted on busyness, foolishness, distractions, carelessness, cockiness or not spending sufficient time with the LORD and immersed in His Word. Where there is interpretation, there is understanding. Where there is understanding, we find knowledge. Where there is knowledge, we find strength. Where there is strength, we find growth. But the utterance of wisdom surpasses them all. Understanding tells you what to do. Wisdom shows you how. (Excerpt from Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit – Free Your Mind chapter)

Are you graciously opening your doors of opportunity? Or are you nailing them shut with your attitude?

Shine on Harvest Moon!

2011-09-12T00:58:00.000-04:00

Harvest Moon: On Stage Tonight!

If you had an opportunity to witness that beautiful Harvest Moon tonight, it was completely mesmerizing. I had to run grab my binoculars and soak in that beautiful golden glow as the moon began to slowly rise when the sun set in the West. This is the last full moon of the summer for this year. A photograph or watching the harvest moon on television is nothing compared to standing outside and looking at how awesome and magnificent this beautiful creation of God, makes you stop wherever you are and say, “Wow!” Shine on Harvest Moon!

Let It Go!

2011-09-08T10:18:00.006-04:00

Let it go!

Do not worry about those things that keep you anxious; things invoked by someone else and not by God. We have to “let go” of any one, any thing and any situation that will lead us into the spirit of oppression. If it (whatever or whoever “it” is) is the cause of the problem and not the solution, then you need to let “it” go!

People want to believe in something and desire to be a part of something, whether it’s healthy or destructive. We must avoid getting trapped by emotional stimulation and cleave to spiritual saturation. Emotional stimulation is quick, temporary and flesh imposed. Spiritual saturation is transformative, everlasting and spiritually rooted.

Your spiritual gift is like a mature tree, ever climbing, branching out and bearing fruit, while remaining connected to the trunk (your food and power sources). God is our power source. Jesus Christ is our extension cord. The Holy Spirit is our power outlet. We will always have a way to stay connected. To fill our spiritual fuel tanks, we must first plug into our power outlet to energize and utilize our hidden potential, so God will be glorified.

(Excerpt from the conclusion of Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit)

September Book Festival for the Week of 9/4/11

2011-09-05T08:11:00.000-04:00

Hedgebrook supports a growing global community of women writers from all over the world with residencies at our retreat on Whidbey Island, and programs to connect their work with readers and audiences of all ages.

September 8, 2011
Hedgebrook Residency
Whidbey Island, Washington
http://www.hedgebrook.org/
connect@hedgebrook.org

Celebrating Labor Day!

2011-09-04T10:51:00.002-04:00

Labor Day, which is celebrated on the first Monday in September, is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. This annual national tribute is recognized for the contributions that U.S. workers made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of our country

The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed during 1885 and 1886. From them developed the movement to secure state legislation. The first state bill was introduced into the New York legislature, but the first to become law was passed by Oregon on February 21, 1887. During the year, four more states — Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York — created the Labor Day holiday by legislative enactment. By the end of the decade Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 other states had adopted the holiday in honor of workers, and on June 28 of that year, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories. (United States Department of Labor, 2011)

Let’s celebrate Labor Day by remembering and thanking those who came before us and paved the way to the prosperity, strength and well-being of our country. Happy Labor Day everyone!

Dog of Fallen Navy SEAL Refuses to Leave His Master’s Casket

2011-08-26T18:17:00.000-04:00

I remember reading a message on a notepad years ago that said, “If you want loyalty, get a dog.” Well, although those words were meant to be sarcastic, we came across a story that tugged at our heartstrings and definitely showed us how loyal a dog can really be. This story moved us to tears, but no doubt teaches us a lesson about how animals also mourn a loss.

Petty Officer Jon Tumilson, a U.S. Navy SEAL, was killed on August 6, in an Afghanistan helicopter crash that also took the lives of 29 other American service members. His funeral was held in Rockford, Iowa where friends and family members remembered the wonderful, dedicated and brave person that he was. Even more heart wrenching was a photo of his dog Hawkeye who laid on the floor in front of his casket and refused to move during the entire service.

The type of compassion and loyalty this dog obviously felt for Jon Tumilson is truly a lesson many of us need to connect to. Whenever you lose a loved one or a dear friend, whether expectedly or unexpectedly, your heart feels heavy and very sad. Fortunately, Hawkeye will not be orphaned or alone with his and sadness. He was willed to Scott Nichols, one of Petty Officer Tumilson’s close friends who looked after Hawkeye when Jon was deployed overseas. This is noble and charitable. Charity is love.

"The disposition of noble dogs is to be gentle with people they know and the opposite with those they don't know...How, then, can the dog be anything other than a lover of learning since it defines what's its own and what's alien." ~ Plato

A Lesson Learned from Rachel Beckwith

2011-08-20T14:16:00.000-04:00

I think practically everyone has been touched by the story about 9 year old Rachel Beckwith, who suddenly died in a tragic traffic accident in July.

In lieu of getting presents for her 9th birthday (June 12), Rachel requested that people send donations to help build water wells in Africa for people who do not have access to clean drinking water as we have in the United States. Her goal was to raise $300. As modest as that amount may seem to many, to a 9 year old that was a lot of money.

Although she came short of her goal by $80 for her birthday, Rachel was not discouraged but determined to find better ways in her efforts for her 10th birthday. When an unfortunate traffic accident claimed her life in July, amazingly, the word got out about what she was doing and more people began contributing to Rachel's pool of donations for Charity: Water. As of this writing, over $1.1 million dollars has been raised in her memory.

Now, the lesson here is not about a 9-year-old little girl raising money to donate to a charity. Having compassion for those who may not be as fortunate as many and using the resources that you have to make a positive difference in their lives is the key to understanding this lesson. You don't have to be a celebrity, nor do you have to be a millionaire to make a genuine, heartfelt, positive impact to help others, regardless of how young or old you may be.

By paying it forward in an unselfish and loving way, you can teach others more by doing, instead of just talking about it and wind up doing nothing at all.

Manners: Do They Still Exist?

2011-08-07T11:41:00.005-04:00

During my formative preteen years of being in elementary school, if a teacher, another person in authority or even a neighbor saw us doing anything inappropriately or being somewhere where we should not be, then you can rest assure that we would have to answer to those charges when we got home. By the grace of God, and fearing the inevitable punishment of what we could face if we were found guilty of any wrongdoing, made us choose to walk the straight and narrow more than we cared to. Now that does not mean we were perfect angels. Believe me, we made our share of mistakes and did some silly things that we look back on and wonder what were we thinking. However, the thought never occurred to us to overtly disrespect authority, our elders, our teachers or other adults who tried to teach us to do the right thing.

Of course, we had some adults who violated the boundaries of being the appropriate leaders and protectors of our children. For those who took indecent liberties with children, abused them or did something to intentionally disrespect their families, they have to pay the price for such injustices sooner or later.

Today, it blows my mind and boils my blood to hear young children throwing temper tantrums and going beyond disrespecting authority, adults and their parents. As my mother used to put it when we were growing up, “Where are your manners?” I hear how children talk back to their parents with no obvious chastising or repercussions and think how on earth they avoid immediate punishment of some type. Now, I am not one for abuse, albeit many parents today would think that how we were disciplined 40 or 50 years ago was child abuse. During that time I was subjected to being spanked or feeling the sting of a switch or belt around my legs a couple of times. Experiencing such disciplinary actions were constant reminders that you do not have to remind me to stop doing something wrong repeatedly! I get it!

However, I am very disturbed to hear and watch the behavior of so many kids today having no fear of punishment for their blatant disrespect and wrongdoing, while watching parents use the negotiating approach versus the disciplinary approach. I cannot put all of this blame and attention on these kids without first finding out what type of parenting their parents do. If they are frequently disrespecting their parents in public, then what will they do to others? How will they behave and respond to authority, rules and regulations as they grow up?

We are held accountable for our decisions and behavior. The expletives I hear used so loosely out of the mouths of young kids absolutely blows my mind. Are many parents trying just a little too hard to be a friend instead of a mother, father or guardian? Are we allowing children to tap into any form of communication without properly monitoring what they watch, read or engage into? Are there other external factors shaping and influencing how our children think and behave? Little things I clearly see some children get by with because people thought it was cute, could oftentimes turn into a notorious habit that terrorizes others.

Manners still exist, but the degree and frequency of respectability and politeness needs to increasingly snuff out and override the ill-mannered.

Wake Up Everybody!

2011-07-29T16:31:00.000-04:00

In the midst of the chaos and confusion going on all around the world, I was reminded today by a co-worker of a song so poignant and reminiscent of a time gone by, that still holds the resounding truths of what’s going on today.

Although John Legend and a montage by various artists remade this song, I am still in love with the version of Wake Up Everybody, recorded by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes featuring Teddy Pendergrass. I invite you to listen to these words and allow it to touch your hearts, minds and spirits.

“No more backwards thinking, time for thinking ahead!” How prophetic and definitely an urgent wake up call!

Teddy Roosevelt

2011-07-25T21:53:00.000-04:00

"Your ability needs responsibility to expose its possibilities. Do what you can with what you have where you are." – Theodore Roosevelt (26th President of the United States, 1901– 1909)

8 Ways To Go Green At Your House (From USA Weekend)

2011-07-24T15:05:00.003-04:00

A few people said they did not know where to start in terms of practicing any green principles at home, but wanted some suggestions. USA Weekend gave some great “green” tips to use at home that contained some great tips that we found worth mentioning again.

Get a reusable water bottle and coffee cup; say no to disposables.
Use only energy-saving bulbs.
Recycle all paper products
Redecorating? Look at furniture and accessories you already have and change them from room to room for a new look, instead of tossing and buying new things.
Use the phone or video chat with Skype for meetings instead of driving your car.
Buy earth-friendly cleaning products when possible.
Try to buy local produce and food.
Turn your car off while waiting in car-pool pickups to avoid idling.

(From USA Weekend, April 15-19, 2011)

My Flowers Taught Me a Lesson about Life

2011-07-17T18:34:00.003-04:00

My Golden Shrimp Plant

I am always excited when spring rolls around, because I get to play in the dirt and watch miracles happen. One of the most relaxing things I enjoy doing outdoors during those warm months is working in the yard, planting flowers and trees. I consider myself one of the caretakers in God’s earthly garden. I love watching seeds sprout and tender young plantings expand their root system and begin to grow.

As my flowers mature, there is one thing that happens to those beautiful blossoms in all of their grandeur, which makes me sad. They start to wither and die. By pulling those dying blooms off, however, it allows more blossoms to multiply and the plant begins to grow faster. The dying flowers retard the growth potential of the plant and other flower buds.

My Magenta Petunia Blossom

When I reflect on life, the things that are lifeless and dead that we tend to hold on to hinder our personal growth and development. Such dead things could include a dead or dying relationship, a dead-end job, being in an organization where there are dead members who do not want to grow and remain stagnant, a dead attitude or even a dead spirit. To grow, you have to let those dead things go! You won’t believe how you will slowly begin to die too. Sometimes you lose your creativity, you can’t focus, you find yourself anxious or depressed, you get trapped in negativity, you may become paranoid or you find yourself in shackles that you can’t shake off.

I found that when I fall to my knees and pray about those circumstances that stress me out, as long as I sit still and listen to God, I find that He has a plan to fix it beyond my understanding. The one thing God instructs me to do is to let those dead weights go. Release them. When I do, I find that I focus on things that are more positive, I have more energy and I am more productive. Those circumstances have a solution, but I would screw it up if I did it my way.

My Chinese Red Hibiscus

So when I find that life has me caught up in its ugly whirlwind of chaos, I not only stop and smell the roses, but I take a good long look at the blossoms too. I refuse to own the chaos and confusion, because that belongs to someone else. Watching a new bloom face the rising son and burst in its awesome brilliance, makes me realize that when I face the rising “Son” my spiritual bouquet will flourish too.

Celebrating Independence Day

2011-07-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

When we think about the freedom that we are blessed to have in this country, we must not forget to differentiate institutional, financial or political freedom with spiritual freedom. Spiritual liberation carries far more weight than the freedom we believe money, job promotions or material possessions can bring. You can have all of the financial wealth, senior level corporate positions or celebrity perks there is, and still feel empty, lonely and spiritually broke. May we celebrate Independence Day every day, knowing that even if we are in physical bondage, we are spiritually emancipated.

Enjoy your 4th of July and celebrate responsibly!

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” - Galatians 5:1 NIV

How Do You Weather Your Storm?

2011-06-26T13:57:00.000-04:00

“Storms are inevitable; our anchor is immovable.”
- Dr. Charles Stanley

There never seems to be a shortage of people going through some turbulent times in their lives or hearing about tragedy and challenges through the media. As long as you live, you will have to weather storms that may come in the form of sickness, grief, losing a job, a situation we created, a situation someone else created or a storm that God needs for us to go through in order to fulfill His purpose in our lives. Our personal storms are akin to our weather related storms (i.e. Thunderstorms, tornados, hurricanes, volcano eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis just to name a few). They come is so many manifestations.

How we respond to our challenges and storms will determine whether we survive it or succumb to it. It can either develop us or destroy us. Our anchor is embedded in the Word of God, and whether you believe that or not is a completely up to you. The Word is not complicated, but is defined to help us live the very best life God has in store for us. This is not to say that we will not go through some unpleasant situations, but we will survive them if our anchor is fixed on what God has to say about our situation and His revelation will help us to get through it.

King David found comfort through the Psalms in the Bible and the first three verses in Psalm 57 gives comfort in weathering the storm.

1 Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.
2 I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me.
3 He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me—God sends forth his love and his faithfulness.

- Psalm 57:1-3 (NIV)

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T12:08:00.001-04:00

To all of our fathers who step up to the plate and continue to be the father they are supposed to be for their children and their family, we wish you a Happy Father’s Day! A special acknowledgement to all of the women who did dual-parenting where a father was neither present or actively involved in helping to raise their children!

"A righteous man who walks in his integrity - How blessed are his sons after him."
(Proverbs 20:7, NASB)

Despite Our Differences

2011-06-17T18:51:00.000-04:00

“Despite our differences, we serve a specific purpose in this massive puzzle of life. So often, we find ourselves overwhelmed by acts of deception, selfishness, hatred, bigotry, manipulation, sexism, egotism, infidelity, oppression and even self-righteousness that could devastate a family, church, community, city, nation or our global society. Yet, we can continue making a dent into this dysfunctional skyscraper of corruption, by debilitating and dismantling these forces of darkness, through continuing to embrace love and magnify the LORD.”

* Excerpt from Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit
Chapter: Spiritual and Human Enigma
Page 35

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Texas Valedictorian Was Willing to Go to Jail for Praying During Her Graduation Speech

2011-06-06T19:11:00.000-04:00

A graduating high school senior boldly proclaimed that she was willing to go to jail if she was not allowed to thank Jesus as her Lord and Savior during her valedictorian speech over the weekend. A prayer ban at her graduation in a San Antonio suburb went into effect after an agnostic family and their graduating senior filed a lawsuit last week. A judge granted their injunction banning any prayer at the graduation.

However, Angela Hildrenbrand, valedictorian for the class of 2011 asked the appeals court to block a judge’s ruling that she could not utter words like God, prayer or Amen during her commencement address. Whether or not the appellate court would rule in her favor, she was still adamant about praying anyway and paying the consequences.

In an amazing last minute decision, three federal judges reversed a ban that would have blocked Angela Hildrenbrand from thanking Jesus as her Lord and Savior during her graduation ceremonies in Texas.

Angela we applaud you for standing on the foundation of your conviction in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. When we listen to the song written by Irving Berlin “God Bless America” we remember that this country was based on God's blessings and peace for our nation. It is unfortunate that the spiritual foundation in which our country stood on is now becoming diluted and offensive to some people. Our voices must continue to praise God our Father and not be silent due to fear. May God continue to bless you and your family.

Celebrating the Spirit of Memorial Day!

2011-05-30T07:38:00.000-04:00

We salute the men and women of the military, who lost their lives and served our country, the United States of America. Let us observe, honor and remember the true meaning of why Memorial Day was established and for whom it was established for. Read more…

Preparing For Judgment Day?

2011-05-26T22:14:00.000-04:00

We are on the heels of yet another prediction about the world coming to an end. It is no doubt that these are indeed turbulent times we are living in. There are wars occurring all around the world, debts are high, suffering surrounds us and natural disasters are appearing to be more violent than ever before. We watch the aftermath of lives shattered, homes lost and the interruption of life as we once knew it forever changed. We pray for the victims as well as the survivors. If we read, study the Word of God and strive to live obediently however, we will understand the lessons Jesus taught His Disciples. These are lessons that we need to learn in order to survive today.

If we would meditate on the 13th chapter of Mark in the New Testament for example, Jesus made some distinctive points about the Great Tribulation. Beginning in the 5th verse, He told His Disciples to be careful because many shall come in His name and deceive numerous people by leading them astray. There will be wars and rumors of wars, but the end shall not yet be, although these things exist. However, even more significantly are the words echoed in the 32nd and 33rd verses: “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” (KJV)

We are witnessing a dangerous display of extremism in so many facets of life and the religious sector is not immune to it. Many who flank top leadership roles in our churches, cathedrals and synagogues are manipulating the Word of God by preaching it to those who will listen, but do not understand the oracles of truth. Such leaders who lead others astray will be held accountable for their actions. Should we take the end times lightly? Absolutely not! We do not know when “our” personal end times will occur, but it behooves us to live righteously, heed the warnings, watch and pray at all times.

People often scratch their heads in bewilderment, not fully understanding how those in the midst of losing all of their earthly possessions, while standing in the rubble of what appears to be a hopeless situation, proclaim to be blessed. Yet, we fail to recognize that we are blessed in so many ways, but do not thank God as sufficiently and as often as we should. We tend to take people and things for granted until something tragic happens when these things are gone forever.

Will there be more predictions of the rapture, Judgment Day and the end of time? Most certainly. However, we must remember that we are not the authors of this book, but participators with a divine purpose. We must put our focus on living and giving, instead of manipulating and using scare tactics to flex our “know it all” muscles. We must pray for those who are held captive by putting their faith and trust in a counterfeit man, instead of choosing to be free by trusting, obeying and embracing the Word of the LORD.

Do You Need Roadside Assistance?

2011-05-22T20:55:00.000-04:00

Before we had the convenience of the ever-popular GPS, everyone had to depend on a roadmap to plan the best routes to get to their various out-of-town destinations. I remember hearing several comedians talk about how men would not stop to ask for directions no matter how lost they were. If the wife told her husband to stop and ask for directions, he would adamantly blurt out “I know where I’m going!” Have you heard that one before?

Ultimately, a trip that would probably take an hour or two, turned into an all day expedition. At some point, you have to stop and ask for roadside assistance. Otherwise, you will find yourself wandering around aimlessly, because you have no idea which way to go and you’re too stubborn to ask for directions. Everyone has a purpose and assignment from God, like road signs along the highway. If we never experienced or prepared for a trip (especially an extended one), then how can we possibly be certified to give roadside assistance to others seeking directions through their journey?

Our support system recycles energy to supply the necessary fuel needed to empower our spirits. We will hit a few potholes every now and then during our journey, but that’s a part of our spiritual growth. Oftentimes, an unexpected dilemma temporarily zaps us of our energy. Study your roadmap (The Holy Bible) and if you run into an unexpected roadblock, be prepared to take a detour. There will always be a plot to ambush you and your mission, but we must remember that God will have a backup plan and an escape route in place when we call on Him. That’s why everyone is equipped with a GPS, not a Global Positioning System, but a God Positioning System. Just pay attention and watch for His “Exit This Way” sign.

(except taken from “Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit”)
http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Happy Mother’s Day!

2011-05-08T07:54:00.000-04:00

“The mother's heart is the child's schoolroom.”
~ Henry Ward Beecher

To mothers past and present, we celebrate you today. We look to our mothers to care for us, protect us and be the nurse or doctor for our ailments and woundedness. Mother’s Day isn’t the only time we celebrate our mothers. We celebrate their maternal embrace, guidance and prayers at some moment and time every day.

If you were not fortunate enough to have a mother who was that nurturer and God-made creature that you hoped she would have been, then you have the will power to do things differently and be the mother creature that God purposed you to be. To all of our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, stepmothers, Godmothers, sisters, nieces and female friends, Happy Mother’s Day!

To the fathers who had to unexpectedly step in the position of being the maternal figure in the absence of a mother, for whatever reasons, we celebrate you on this day as well. Parenting is not an easy task, for there is not an owner's or instruction manual that comes with a child. When we look to the word of God for guidance and help however, we will find that He will provide the correct answers that we need to be the mothers and fathers that we are supposed to be.

Happy Mother's Day!

Celebrating National Day of Prayer

2011-05-05T00:37:00.001-04:00

We cannot ask God to bless America if we do not acknowledge and allow God in. Today, we celebrate National Day of Prayer. Although I will be among the thousands of people engaging in a day of prayer, we must not resolve to celebrate this day only on one day of the year. Can you imagine if the hundreds of thousands of people who are participating in some type of service, ceremony or event on today commit to seeking God’s guidance and obeying His statues every single day of the year, I truly believe that our country would be able to overcome many of our trials and tribulations that we are facing today.

Here is a little bit of history behind this designated National Day of Prayer:

Since the first call to prayer in 1775, when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a nation, the call to prayer has continued through our history, including President Lincoln’s proclamation of a day of “humiliation, fasting, and prayer” in 1863. In 1952, a joint resolution by Congress, signed by President Truman, declared an annual, national day of prayer. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of every May. Each year, the president signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. Last year, all 50 state governors plus the governors of several U.S. territories signed similar proclamations.

As a child of God, and believer in Jesus Christ, prayer is a vital part of our heritage. Let us pray for all of our leaders from the President of the United States to the pulpit. Let us pray for our children, families and friends. Let us pray for our local, state and global neighbors. Let us pray for the homeless and destitute. Let us pray for the abused, falsely accused and the wayward. Let us even pray for our enemies and believe that God will have mercy on them and that they will convert to doing the will of God Almighty. There are many who do not believe that there is a God of Creation and of this Universe. For these individuals, we will pray for you too.

The National Day of Prayer belongs to of us. It is a day that transcends differences, bringing together American citizens from all backgrounds. There will be those who will protest against this day of observance, but those of us who commit to daily prayer must make our voices resound even louder. Make every day a National Day of Prayer! God Bless!

Happy May Day!

2011-05-01T12:09:00.005-04:00

Has the May Day celebration become extinct? May 1st is designated as May Day. I do not know if kids still celebrate May Day by wrapping ribbons around the May pole like the one we used to do when I was growing up, but the nostalgia of the event was unforgettable. It also gave us the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the weather.

The original purpose of May Day, the Maypole and rituals surrounding it was to celebrate the fertility of the new season's crops. Trees are linked to a part of the celebration and have always been symbolic of the great energy and fertility of nature. Some people took the word “fertility” literally and the holiday became a time of reckless sexual behavior. Over time, the emphasis on agriculture in which May Day was initially observed and celebrated, began to diminish rapidly.

In many cultures, May Day is remembered differently and for a variety of reasons. In some countries, it is a national holiday, while others commemorate the day as a celebration of spring, a saint’s feast day, a day for organized labor or used for political protests.

The tradition of celebrating May Day entailed dancing and singing around a maypole that was tied with colorful ribbons or streamers. We celebrated May Day by moving around the pole, holding our end of the colorful streamer and singing. The top of the Maypole was adorned with flowers or some type of decoration indicative of the celebration. Typically a May Queen is chosen and sometimes a May King. Although our reason for celebrating May Day escapes me right now, we were just ecstatic about having a reason to get outside and celebrate the essence of spring.

Happy May Day!

My Personal Embrace of Easter

2011-04-24T03:29:00.014-04:00

Easter holds two personal significances for me. First, it is a constant reminder that Jesus Christ made a major sacrifice on our behalf that resonates long after His Resurrection from His death on the cross. After countless times of reading about the passion of Jesus Christ and the horrific brutality he endured, it still saddens me when I try to “humanly” comprehend how people could mistreat others with unthinkable cruelty and feel no remorse. I understand the spiritual purpose why Jesus became the sacrificial Lamb, but amid my humbleness and gratefulness, playing out this scene during Holy Week is still very painful to me.

My second reason is that my mother passed away on Easter Sunday 2003. The way I manage to find peace with her passing, especially on this Holy Day, is knowing that she became a part of the Renaissance, the Rebirth, a new beginning and a greater Divine purpose in a different realm. Although I still experience periodical moments of sadness pierced by a maternal void that runs so deep, I am reminded that the life I live, the work I do and the heart I have will speak for me one day. When that day of my transition arrives, I want to be certain that I did not waste precious moments on frivolousness, foolishness and selfishness.

Yet, in my moments of sadness over these personal significant Easter Holy Day meanings, I find an unbelievable amount of joy, peace, happiness, gentleness and love that keeps me pressing forward to my higher calling; to be the servant that God purposed me to be and not what man thinks I should be.

I realize that many people perceive, embrace and celebrate Easter quite differently than I do. For me, Easter is not a matter of a basket, bunny or an egg, but a matter of the heart…my heart. So, in celebration of this worthy, historical and sacred commemoration, I wish all of you a very Happy Easter!

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

2011-04-22T05:10:00.006-04:00

HAPPY EARTH DAY everyone! Let’s do our part to make things better for our environment, our health and well-being right now, before things get so far out of control that we won’t be able to do anything about it at all.

Let's celebrate EARTH DAY every day! One day is certainly not enough when there are 364 more days left in the year!

“I think the environment should be put in the category of our national security. Defense of our resources is just as important as defense abroad. Otherwise what is there to defend?”

~ Robert Redford

Celebrating Easter, A Holy Day!

2011-04-16T15:31:00.000-04:00

As we approach Easter, let us not forget about the true meaning of what Easter signifies. It is not about the Easter eggs, the Easter Bunny, Easter baskets, Easter outfits or simply going to church on Easter Sunday. Easter is about the Almighty sacrifice that Jesus Christ gave for us, His Resurrection and God’s divine forgiveness of our sins. All too often, we become entrapped by the commercialism of what our holidays are supposed to really mean and the true message gets lost in the shuffle somehow.

For those of us who gave up something during the Lenten Season, let us continue to carry that spirit of prayer, atonement, fasting, and self-denial throughout the year. Let us not try to neatly fit these all important, life-changing times of reflection and celebration into a convenient package that we tuck away until this time next year rolls around. I cannot say often enough how we are truly blessed to be in a country where we can freely practice our religion, our political views and a myriad of other liberties without deadly persecution. We must not take these areas of independence for granted because things can change when we least expect it. We do not live in a land where dictatorship governs every fabric of our lives. We must rejoice in that fact.

As we commemorate the festivities of this Easter, may we continue to reflect on keeping it a Holy Day instead of just another commercialized holiday. Peace & Blessings everyone!

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Movie Trailer for "Poetry" from South Korean Filmmaker Lee Chang-Dong

2011-04-12T21:50:00.000-04:00

To continue celebrating National Poetry Month, I wanted to share this touching movie trailer that I came across called "Poetry." This is a movie about loss and discovery. I have not had an opportunity to see the full version of this movie and I don't know if it is available in English, but if anyone runs across the full version, please let me know. It looks like it will be worth seeing.

The movie Poetry, which was written and directed by South Korean filmmaker Lee Chang-Dong, recently won the Regard d'Or Award at the Fribourg International Film Festival in Switzerland. The movie, about a woman in her sixties who decides to take a poetry class at an adult-education center, also took honors for best screenplay at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival. I included that trailer below, so please watch and enjoy!

Tea & Poetry Book Club: April is National Poetry Month

2011-04-03T12:07:00.001-04:00

Although April is National Poetry Month, we should enjoy the sheer pageantry of words that perform on the pages of many chapbooks and poetry books every day. The Tea & Poetry Book Club encourages you to grab a book of poetry and a cup of tea, and then allow the flavors of the two mediums to transport you to a serene place of enlightenment, enjoyment and education.

Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, National Poetry Month is now held every April, when publishers, booksellers, literary organizations, libraries, schools and poets around the country band together to celebrate poetry and its vital place in American culture (poets.org). The Academy of American Poets led this initiative from its inception in 1996 and along the way enlisted a variety of government agencies and officials, educational leaders, publishers, sponsors, poets, and arts organizations to help.

So engage in celebrating the beauty of poetry. Attend a poetry reading, go to the library and check out some books on poetry, go to your neighborhood bookstore and buy a book from your favorite author, organize a group of friends to meet, read and discuss one or a few poems or you can go to this link and subscribe to receiving a Poem-A-Day from the Academy of American Poets http://www.poets.org/page.php/prmID/345.

Today, I am sipping a cup of Earl Grey Green tea, reading one of my favorite poems “Still I Rise” by my favorite poet, Maya Angelou. Grab yourself a cup of tea and Enjoy!

Still I Rise

You may write me down in history

With your bitter, twisted lies,

You may trod me in the very dirt

But still, like dust, I'll rise.

Does my sassiness upset you?

Why are you beset with gloom?

'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells

Pumping in my living room.

Just like moons and like suns,

With the certainty of tides,

Just like hopes springing high,

Still I'll rise.

Did you want to see me broken?

Bowed head and lowered eyes?

Shoulders falling down like teardrops.

Weakened by my soulful cries.

Does my haughtiness offend you?

Don't you take it awful hard

'Cause I laugh like I've got gold mines

Diggin' in my own back yard.

You may shoot me with your words,

You may cut me with your eyes,

You may kill me with your hatefulness,

But still, like air, I'll rise.

Does my sexiness upset you?

Does it come as a surprise

That I dance like I've got diamonds

At the meeting of my thighs?

Out of the huts of history's shame

I rise

Up from a past that's rooted in pain

I rise

I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide,
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.

Leaving behind nights of terror and fear

I rise

Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear

I rise

Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,

I am the dream and the hope of the slave.

I rise

I rise.

Here's to a cup of tea and a bit of poetry!
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Tea & Poetry Book Club Celebration

2011-03-25T20:58:00.001-04:00

Tea & Poetry Book Club

Who is your favorite poet and what is your favorite poem? As you know, we will celebrate National Poetry Month in April. To me, poetry is the ability to create a literary art form where language makes its unique melody through the aesthetics of words. I always found that regardless of the season, I embrace sipping on a nice cup of one of my favorite flavored hot teas, while reading some poetry. A cup of hot tea and reading your favorite poem are classic traveling companions.

Many individuals, book clubs, libraries and social groups will be celebrating April with a variety of events to embrace and commemorate the fine art of poetry. Throughout the month, I will be highlighting something significant in the world of poetry, whether it’s a book, a poet, an event or a poem.

My Tea & Poetry Book Club Celebration will begin on April 1st. I invite you to share with me the name of your favorite flavor of hot tea, your favorite poet, your favorite poem and your favorite place where you enjoy your delightful cup of tea, when reading your poetry. Stay tuned. There’s more to come from my Tea & Poetry Book Club!

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Something Worth Fighting For!

2011-03-17T18:07:00.001-04:00

I can’t begin to reiterate how truly blessed we are to live in a country where we have the freedom of religion regardless of your denomination. I read many stories where Christians around the world are being brutally persecuted and ostracized for practicing their Christianity. While there will always be some type of disagreement about individual belief systems and what doctrine people follow, we still have a variety of freedoms in this country that we take too loosely and for granted.

I came across a couple of stories I want to share with you about the persecution of Christians around the world. After reading books like “Tortured for Christ” by Richard Wurmbrand, one could not possibly fathom the terrorization that so many people endured for their faith. Let us remain diligent in praying for the continued encouragement and strength exhibited by some of these sisters and brothers in the following stories:

HEADLINE: Giving away free Bibles riskier than 17 Ethiopian college students expected

Thinking they couldn't get into much trouble just giving away Bibles, 17 Christian college students from Meda Welabu University in Ethiopia thought they would go into the rural countryside and share the Gospel. The native Ethiopian students didn't know what kind of reception they would get. Read more…

HEADLINE: China celebrates Lent with new crackdown on Christians

The Chinese government has begun its annual observation of Lent - what has become a yearly wave of repression against Christians. Read more…

HEADLINE: 23-year-old faces death penalty for accepting Jesus

Twenty-three-year-old Christian convert Shoaib Assadullah asks your prayers. Jailed in Afghanistan since last year, his crime is that he converted to Christianity, then shared his newfound faith with friends. Read more…

After reading stories like these, it makes you appreciate the martyrs who sacrifice their lives and do not intentionally harm or destroy people just because they think they are justified by doing so. These are Christian soldiers are standing against the diabolical forces trying to seek, kill and destroy. Are we truly in step with God as we should be? Are you willing to be in covenant with God through Jesus Christ, by standing for something worth fighting for?

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The Earth Shook and the Water Flowed!

2011-03-14T22:05:00.002-04:00

How do you stop a massive tidal wave heading in your direction without warning? You can’t! We are not living in a Sci-fi world where scientists suddenly save the day by creating a diversion to avoid universal casualties, fatalities and mass destruction.

In the wake of the tsunami that violently hit Japan on Friday, let us continue to pray for all of those directly affected by this devastation, the victims and their families from afar. Large numbers of families have no idea where this massive disaster swept their loved ones to. We are not superhuman and must remember that we are not in control of what is already inevitable. When an 8.9 earthquake hit Japan sparking a tsunami with waves reaching 23 feet high and at the speed of a jumbo jet, anything in its path was swallowed up or swept away.

As of today, thousands of people are still missing and may never be found. Japan remains on a nuclear watch that could be more catastrophic than we could ever fathom. The area is still on alert due to powerful aftershocks that could last for several days. As we continue to pray for those hit with this type of mass destruction, let us also be mindful of how truly blessed we are in more ways than we can imagine. Let us not be swept away by our selfishness, greed, complacency, hatred, violence, lack of compassion and education. Believe me, being swept away by the things that we can control is just as cataclysmic and deadly as these ravaging storms hitting areas where people least expect it.

If you are interested in contributing in any type of way, financially or otherwise, we encourage you to follow your heart. If you are unable to donate money, then donate your prayers. The team from Network for good is monitoring the events regarding the tsunami relief efforts through their list of organizations preparing a response. For more information check out this Network for Good link: http://www1.networkforgood.org/help-survivors-pacific-quake-tsunami.

This tsunami was massive, but throughout every disaster, no matter where it occurs, human compassion and assistance resonates even greater than that. May God bless all of you.

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Celebrating the Month of March

2011-03-09T00:05:00.004-05:00

The mere sense of living is joy enough. ~ Emily Dickinson

As we look forward to things slowly beginning to turn green and the softness of spring embarks on the barrenness that winter left behind, we are invigorated with the idea of celebrating a new awakening during the month of March. This month, daylight savings time springs ahead and the first day of spring announces its arrival on March 20th.

Don’t have a reason to celebrate? Well you should, because life in itself gives us every reason to celebrate every single day! We are so blessed to be in a country where things may not always go as we wish and the cost of living continues to soar more than our paychecks, but we don’t have to walk out of our doors and face a civil war like many countries are facing right now. Life may not always be a bed of roses and we should not expect it to be, because that would be looking at life unrealistically. But when you wake up every morning and watch the innocence of the morning unfold, we have to stand in awe of its beauty as we look up and thank God for an awesome gift.

If you want a few more reasons to celebrate this month, check out these events in your area:

Women’s History Month

National Nutrition Month

National Poison Prevention Month

Youth Art Month

American Red Cross Month

Irish American Heritage Month

National Craft Month

National Frozen Food Month

National Noodle Month

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate. ~ Oprah Winfrey

March is National Women’s History Month

2011-03-05T18:29:00.000-05:00

Women are like teabags. We don't know our true strength until we are in hot water!

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

We can recall at least one woman who made an indelible mark in our lives that changed us forever. We witnessed amazing strength, resiliency, tenderness and sensitivity in women who encouraged us and helped to shape our lives in a profound way.

Since Biblical times we meditated on the stories of some great female warriors, leaders, heroines and disciples who left their mark in history. The “seen and not heard” syndrome was becoming poisonous, when women did not have a voice that could resonate just as loud as any man of their peers could. As we moved through different eras of transition throughout each generation, women garnered the strength, tenacity and wisdom to make a defining mark in history.

As we celebrate National Women’s History Month, I invite you to take a moment and reflect on at least one woman in your life who made her mark in a quiet or bold way and became a voice of change in a positive way. In 1978, the celebration of women’s history began in Sonoma County, California as Women’s History Week. In 1981, Rep. Barbara Mikulski (D-Maryland) and Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) co-sponsored a joint Congressional resolution recognizing National Women’s History Week. Congress later expanded the week to a month in 1987. March was thereby declared the month to celebrate National Women’s History.

The theme for National Women’s History Month is “2011: Our History is Our Strength!” If a woman has touched your life in a profound way, whether she’s your teacher, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend or mentor, reach out and tell them how much you appreciate the impact they made in your life!

If you would like to honor a woman who made significant contributions in your life, I invite you to leave her name and her relationship to you in the comment section below. To all of you fabulous women out there, making a positive impact for your community, home and your Godly convictions…Happy National Women’s History Month!

Each time a girl opens a book and reads a womanless history, she learns she is worth less.
~ Myra Pollack Sadker

What is the World Coming To?

2011-02-26T18:56:00.000-05:00

May we continue to be fervent in our prayers. There is so much turmoil going on in our nation, in our families and around the world, that it’s hard to watch the news and decipher which part of the world the chaos is occurring in on that particular day. It is my belief that God has been trying to slap some sense into us for quite some time now; to remind us that this life is not all about us, but about His purpose for us.

It seems like we have strayed far away from sound doctrine and principle. Far too many are conforming to whatever and that can be a deadly mistake. There are certain things that people do, that used to make me think that they were just plain ole crazy. However, the more you look at it, you will find that they are laced with an unimaginable evil…something sinister, bizarre and very real. There is no excuse in that, just a choice.

It is hard to watch the news anymore, because you will be depressed in the first few seconds of the broadcast, regardless of which network you look at. People are desperate and resorting to engaging in desperate things. But, are we being just as desperate in our obedience, prayer life, goodness and fruitfulness?

We cannot continue to blame the Devil for what he or she does, because they are merely doing their job. Yes, they are busy! The question is, are we praying and doing our job that God sent us here to do? Are we being even busier than our enemy is? We have to seriously look in the mirror at who we truly are, then remember whose we are. We have to make that change and not pass the blame for our shortcomings or depend on someone else to do it for us.

The world is not for us to abuse, but to take care of. With all of the bizarre weather changes occurring everywhere and where peace can find no refuge, we are running into some serious conditions with tragic consequences. Whatever the world is coming to is in the power of our hearts. We can either work together to make a positive difference, or we can continue to be divisive, simply because we have the freewill to do so. The world will not get any better if we just continue to let it be. We have to make that change…you and me!

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Celebrating Presidents Day!

2011-02-17T20:47:00.000-05:00

“Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom.” -Thomas Jefferson

President’s Day is a celebratory time set aside to honor all of our U.S. Presidents. Normally Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are symbolically identified with this occasion, since both of their birthdays fell within a short time of each other during the month of February. George Washington was initially linked to the formation of Presidents Day.

“I leave you, hoping that the lamp of liberty will burn in your bosoms until there shall no longer be a doubt that all men are created free and equal.” -Abraham Lincoln

Prior to 1968, this fact did not seem to bother anyone and things were running along smoothly in the birthday celebration department. February 22nd was observed as a federal public holiday to honor the birthday of George Washington and February 12th was observed as a public holiday (in most states) to honor the birthday of Abraham Lincoln.

“Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him.” -Dwight D. Eisenhower

However, in 1968, the 90th Congress was determined to create a uniform system of federal Monday holidays, so they voted to shift three existing holidays (including Washington's Birthday) to Mondays. The law took effect in 1971. As a result, Washington's Birthday holiday was changed from its fixed February 22 date to the third Monday in February. This change was not without controversy. There was some concern that Washington's identity would be lost (since the third Monday in February would never fall on his birth date of February 22nd). Since 1968, President’s Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February when we pay tribute to every individual who served in the office of President of the United States of America.

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them”. -John F. Kennedy

We are blessed to have the freedom in this country to vote in a democracy where we have the ability to select the candidate we wish to see in office. Although many people do not hold some of our Commanders-in-Chief in the same high esteem, there is no doubt that regardless of our political affiliations or views, our country is not governed by a dictatorship. Thank God for that! Sometimes we tend to take the freedoms we are able to enjoy for granted; freedoms that other countries would only dream about experiencing. We must be mindful that although we have the freedom of speech, we must not allow our tongues to defile our character and spirits. Just because you have the right to speak what is on your mind, does not mean that it is always appropriate or necessary.

So, on this Presidents Day, let us take a moment to reflect on what a great country we live in. May we never forget how blessed we are to be in a nation where we have the opportunity to soar beyond our wildest dreams and where people, no matter what race, creed or gender you are, can get an education and practice their religion without suffering cruel consequences. Let us also take this moment, to salute our military men and women, along with their families. It is because of them, that the freedoms we enjoy every day, is protected.

“Focusing your life solely on making a buck shows a certain poverty of ambition. It asks too little of yourself. … Because it’s only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself that you realize your true potential.” -Barack Obama

Hail to the Chief!

Only One Day for Valentine’s Day? Surely You Jest?

2011-02-08T01:23:00.003-05:00

“Love is something eternal; the aspect may change, but not the essence.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

Traditionally millions around the world celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th. Before I go into a brief history about the story of St. Valentine’s Day, I always wondered why so much emphasis is placed on this one day and not echoed throughout the year. After this one day of giving bouquets of flowers, balloons, cards, romantic dinners, chocolates, proposals and a strong declaration of love between two people, what happens during the other 364 days of the year? Where are the lovey-dovey fireworks on ordinary days like May 2nd, August 25th or October 10th?

Love is not a thing, but an emotion. It can be expressed through acts of love in a myriad of ways. However, I don’t personally think that we should contain strong expressions of showing and sharing your love or affection only during a 12-24 hour time frame on February 14th? Do you?

According to www.theholidayspot.com, the story of St. Valentine has two different versions - the Protestant and the Catholic one. Both versions agree upon Saint Valentine being a bishop who held secret marriage ceremonies of soldiers in opposition to Claudius II who had prohibited marriage for young men and was executed by the latter. The most plausible story surrounding St. Valentine is one not centered on Eros (passionate love) but on agape (Christian love): he was martyred for refusing to renounce his religion. Valentine is believed to have been executed on February 14, 270 AD.

Thus, February 14th became a day for all lovers and Valentine became its Patron Saint. It began to be annually observed by young Romans who offered handwritten greetings of affection, known as Valentines, on this day to the women they admired. With the coming of Christianity, the day came to be known as St. Valentine's Day. But, it was only during the 14th century that St. Valentine's Day became definitively associated with love.

So as you walk into the stores, saturated with all sorts of great ideas for Valentine’s Day, keep a snapshot of this image in your mind, as it reminds you to practice LOVE every day of the year. And even if you don’t have a significant “other” to share Valentine’s Day with, treat yourself to a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, a massage, a pedicure or manicure, a makeover, a new hairstyle or some sexy lingerie. Don’t wait for someone else to make you feel good about you. You may be waiting for a very long time!

And if you are really feeling lonely on Valentine’s Day, don’t sulk about it. If you know of a senior citizen who is lonely, buy them a Valentine’s Day card or some flowers and surprise them with it. Or if you want to buy some Valentine’s Day cards, sign it and give it to some of the residents in a nursing home or children’s hospital, you would be sharing an awesome act of love and you will feel so good about it too! That sense of loneliness you were probably feeling will subside, when you see how much you made someone’s day that may be in a worse scenario than you.

Let’s not just accept February 14th as the only day to hype up your expressions of love for someone. Do it every single day of your life. Doing something nice and sweet for someone is something they won’t easily forget, especially when they are lonely! Be creative! Celebrate life! Have a Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

“Love is a promise, love is a souvenir, once given never forgotten, never let it disappear.” ~John Lennon

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Celebrating the Month of February, 2011

2011-02-01T13:40:00.002-05:00

As we exit the first month and look forward with anticipation to the rest of this year, this month is a very significant time that we continue to excel and celebrate. This month we celebrate Black History Month, American Heart Month, National Children’s Dental Health Month and AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month. In addition, here are some important days found on the calendar that we invited to also observe this month:

Give Kids a Smile Day – February 1

National Freedom Day – February 1

Groundhog Day – February 2

Chinese New Year – February 3

National Wear Red Day – February 6

Superbowl Sunday – February 6

Boy Scout Day – February 8

National Condom Day – February 10

Valentine’s Day – February 14

President’s Day – February 21

"Celebrate the happiness that friends are always giving, make every day a holiday and celebrate just living." ~ Amanda Bradley

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Lessons of Building

2011-01-21T17:47:00.000-05:00

(excerpt from the chapter, The Master Architect, in Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit)

True visionaries are those who clairvoyantly see the end at the beginning, without support from any tangible assistance. Trying to communicate that vision to others can be extremely taxing at times. You will run into resistance when others are unable to see or comprehend what you see. Their criticism and skepticism become a momentary distraction, trying to divert your attention from executing your vision. The vision that God gives a visionary will come to fruition, even if God removes the skeptics or uses them to bless you. God gives a vision, with provision. His designs and blueprints will be made clear enough so that those who have been assigned to make it happen, will indeed make it happen by His grace. This foundation is “Rock” solid!

To build is to start from the bottom and work upward, not from the top and work downward. Working from the bottom up is construction (to develop and erect). Working from the top downward is de-struction (to destroy and demolish). As Kingdom Builders, we are starting from the bottom and working our way up. We are to follow Christ’s lead and feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the sick and imprisoned. You can’t build a house without the proper tools, building supplies and a solid, level foundation. The Kingdom can’t be built using weak spiritual tools and building supplies of shoddy spirits and underdeveloped gifts. Not everyone will have the innate ability to be a carpenter, plumber, roofer, electrician, mason or even the architect themselves. Once we learn what our purpose is, the vision will be erected according to His plan and resources. We are a small piece of the puzzle to this Master Blueprint, but nevertheless, a very important and significant component.

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Celebrating Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2011-01-15T01:03:00.003-05:00

“History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of the good people.” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

As we celebrate the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929-April 4, 1968), let us think about the prophecies reflected through his speeches and dreams that he generously shared with us. He married Coretta Scott and they had four children (Yolanda, Martin III., Dexter and Bernice). He used the principles of nonviolent methods following the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. It is noted that Dr. King made a request to avoid mentioning his awards and honors at his funeral. Instead, he wanted it to be said that he tried to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, be right on the (Vietnam) war question and to love and serve humanity. In 1964, Dr. King received The Nobel Peace Prize for his work to end racial segregation and discrimination, through nonviolent means.

To have a dream doesn’t start with the teacher, preacher, doctor, business executive or politician. It begins with you…unleashing your passion from within. And so on this day, we must ask, is that dream better? Or worse? Are we still trying to overcome some day or have we responded to the call by building sturdier bridges to propel us forward into a brighter future? Are we utilizing those precious values and resources from yesteryear that formed our steadfast foundations of the present, to love more, edify continuously and teach more passionately? As we reach this moment celebrating Dr. King’s heroic sacrifice 43 years later, we must analyze just how much we have progressed and if we are continuing to encourage others to dream even bigger dreams.

Are our children in a better position to accelerate to the level of greatest that we want them to be? Or are they on their own because we took our sights off of the purpose behind the dream, by not turning that dream into a reality and performing our assignments effectively? At this point of the journey, we should not be wondering when we shall overcome, but declaring that we overcame a long time ago with victory!

Happy Birthday Dr. King!

“Rarely do we find men who willingly engage in hard, solid thinking. There is an almost universal quest for easy answers and half-baked solutions. Nothing pains some people more than having to think.” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Ice, Ice Baby!

2011-01-13T12:06:00.000-05:00

“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” ~Anne Bradstreet

Anyone who had a terrifying experience with ice knows just how dangerous walking or driving on it can be. It can be scary, frustrating, inconvenient and sometimes deadly. The first day we had ice this week, we lost our satellite signal. We opted to have our dish located on the ground instead of on the roof, and I am so glad that we made that decision. I carefully walked outside, bundled up with an ice scraper, to see if there was any buildup obstructing the reception of the signal. With each step I took, the ice ahead of me would reveal vein like fractures that would make you think you would fall through the cracks at a given moment. When I finally reached the dish and started chipping the ice off of it, the next thing that happened nearly freaked me out. When the ice I was chipping away hit the ground, it started bouncing like a bunch of marbles someone spilled on the floor. I never experienced anything like that before. Because it was quiet outside, the sounds of the bouncing ice was too hard to ignore. Needless to say, I got back in the house as quickly as I could.

As we are trying to recover from the arctic blast that has laden the southeast with ice-covered snow, it seems like the ground and streets were turned into an ice rink, and regular objects sitting outside have formed some surprising ice sculptures. I was passing by my window this morning looking at how little the snow on our deck melted and noticed that in certain areas the snow-turned ice almost looked like an optical illusion. I would think that because of a brief melting and refreezing point from yesterday, these cute little attention getters resulted from that. However, these small sculptures literally looked like they were suspended in air and defied gravity.

First, the banister on the deck looked as if snow was still pack on it. But, when I looked closer, it appeared as if it was molded into an arch that mimicked the wave of an ocean. Then I noticed something in a small fountain sitting in one corner of my deck, and I cannot for the life of me, even come up with how this piece of ice formed into what I saw. It appeared that it was actually sculpted where parts of it was almost paper thin and the end section that meandered upward was as if something was flinging water up in the air and it immediately did a freeze frame. In case you are wondering if water was flowing through the fountain at that time, it was not. When the temperatures drop as low as they have been, I unplug the fountain, because the tubes will freeze.

I know that I tend to become fascinated by these natural wonders and I am not scientific by any means. But, I am curious about how this unexplained mystery occurred. I wished I had a camera filming this water metamorphosis, because to believe it, is to see it. Despite the dangers of walking or driving on this ice, to watch the prisms of light glistening throughout the ebb and flow of these natural ice sculptures by the sunlight, is truly a breathtaking sight. The only response that I have for this unexplained phenomenon is that God is truly an Awesome and Masterful artist!

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Moments to Embrace Natural Wonders

2011-01-10T11:27:00.001-05:00

“Reading about nature is fine, but if a person walks in the woods and listens carefully, he can learn more than what is in books, for they speak with the voice of God.” ~ George Washington Carver

It’s amazing that as adults we sometimes stop soaking in the excitement of little things that exhilarated us when we were kids. The older I get, I often find myself sitting quietly and taking a moment to absorb the awesome beauty of God’s incredible creation. During the spring and summer, I am constantly sitting outside listening to the birds singing, watching the squirrels run to and fro, and seeing the birth of new shoots of flowers and leaves unfolding everywhere.

I still marvel at the changes in our weather, and although many describe it as bizarre occurrences, I have to sit down and take in the beauty of the moment. When we have rain showers, I sometimes sit by the window and occasionally open it, to watch and listen to the melody of the raindrops. When there is a nice spring breeze outside, I sometimes open my windows to allow the fresh air to float through. In the morning as the sun slowly rises, I get excited watching the sky transform from shades of orange sherbet and lilac into a beautiful blue sky with white, fluffy clouds and think, “Now this is good!”

We know that at any given moment, the more torrential the rain falls, the greater the threat of flooding. We know that the stronger the breeze, the greater the threat of a tornado. We know that the stronger the snowfall, the greater the chance for a blizzard. Although we understand and heed the dangers of the storms, we know at the end of the storm, the sun (Son) always shines with rays of hope!

But this morning, for this moment, as I look outside watching the delicate showers of snowflakes fall, in all of its innocence, majesty, purity and gentleness, I think, “God, you are more awesome than I could ever imagine.” I am grateful, for the opportunity to simply stop, observe and get giddy about seeing and experiencing life, with the type of excitement I remember feeling when I was younger!

If only for a moment, stop and smell the roses, magnolias or gardenias. If only for a moment, stop and listen to the musical composition of the rainfall. If only for a moment, stop and watch the fluidity of the trees dance in the gentle breeze. If only for a moment, stop and watch as the delicate whispers of snowflakes in the crisp winter air begin to layer the ground and trees in a beautiful white blanket of “wow!”. If only for a moment, we will find that the special events of life will turn into minutes, then into hours, then into days and then into years. Finally, you will realize that your one moment of gratitude can turn into a lifetime of unforgettable memories! Enjoy your moment…I certainly am!

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Is it time to Reinvent Yourself?

2011-01-07T01:00:00.003-05:00

“The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

On January 1, we celebrated the first day of our new 2011 calendar year. Do you realize that every day we are blessed to be alive, it is the first day of a brand new year for us? I think this is reason alone to celebrate the gift of life every day we have breath in our bodies.

When we find ourselves becoming monotonous and lackluster in some aspect of our lives, we must do something to rekindle the pep in our step and the glide in our stride! While it is easy to be trapped in a sea of despair and discouragement, we have to snap out of it by doing something to reignite our passion to inspire, dazzle and live! Trials and tribulations have a way of wearing us out, ripping us apart, or trying to destroy us completely. There is so much that we have no control over, but you will be surprised by the amount of things that we can control. These things may not always be tangible, but spiritual. Sometimes this is easier said than done when you find yourself in a situation where it seems like there is just no way out. You try everything possible, but it seems like circumstances keep pushing you back further and punches you into a TKO (Technical Knock Out). Yet, when things seem to continue piling up against you, especially when you try to do everything right, don’t give up. Our valley experiences propel us to grow! To understand how this works, we may never quite grasp the process of how this is done. Instead of becoming bitter, we must get busy. Instead of just existing, you should broaden your horizons and live!

Reinventing yourself is not about creating a façade, but about revitalizing what exists to thwart the imprisonment of obscurity. Reinventing yourself is about self-improvement, not self-exploitation or self-idolization. Reinventing yourself is simply about making a better you through wiser choices, as opposed to the same old, same old!

When you look at a glass containing nothing, do you see it empty or as an opportunity? Stop surrounding yourself with the forces of negativity, for they will shut you down just when you least expect it. If we catch ourselves spewing out venomous attacks towards others just because, then we need to get ourselves in check and stop it. If we find ourselves always tearing down instead of building up, then change your tune.

Even with the marketing strategies that organizations put into place to promote their business, they must frequently examine their plans with their current trend, to keep themselves alive, fresh, competitive and updated. If they fail to do so, they can easily fall off the grid into a hole of obsolescence. That would create corporate suicide.

Under normal circumstances, people quickly become bored with the mundane and obscure. Is it time for a new career? Is it time to go back to school and get your degree or certification? Is it time to update your wardrobe? Is it time to seek out new opportunities in something you are passionate about? Is it time to enhance your knowledge by learning something new to teach and empower others? Is it time for a new attitude, perspective or approach? Is it time to lose weight and get healthier? Is it time to get rid of the clutter and overabundance that is creating stress and chaos in your life? Is it time to let go of anyone or anything that is trying to stunt your growth? Is it time to reinvent yourself?

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January 2011 Special Events

2011-01-03T10:46:00.000-05:00

“The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” ~ Oprah Winfrey

During the holidays, I encouraged everyone to continue celebrating life every day throughout the year, just as we would ordinarily do around the Christmas Holiday season! So as we kick off this spanking brand new year, I am going to share with you some national special occasions that you can learn more about and combine them with your personal special celebrations this month.

I am a tea lover and hot tea is my tranquil beverage of choice. Research found drinking black tea might improve the body’s defenses and quicken the response to bacteria and viruses. Needless to say, I am delighted to find out that January is National Hot Tea Month! I suppose I will be drinking more hot tea this month, amid our frigid temperatures in honor of National Hot Tea Month. Some of the other special occasions to celebrate this month are:

National Blood Donor Month
Eye Care Month
National Braille Literacy Month
National Hobby Month
National Soup Month
National Staying Healthy Month
National Thank You Month
Oatmeal Month

So find a reason to celebrate every day, even if the day is not designated for something special on the calendar! Enjoy the rest of your month!

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Retrospect, Gratitude and a Happy New Year

2010-12-30T04:08:00.000-05:00

Alas, we have arrived at that pivotal time when we review the various events that took place this year and evaluate how they affected us. We cannot brood over how tough our storms were, but celebrate just how miraculous we navigated through them. When you think about those times you felt like you were in the eye of a tornado, remember how God turned the situation into a gentle breeze. When you think about the torrential rains and dark clouds that filled many of your days, remember how you watched as the sun broke through those clouds and the rain turned into a soothing shower. When you think about your life being shaken up like a violent earthquake reaching the highest range on the Richter scale, remember that you weren’t crushed to death by falling through the cracks.

Last year, I challenged readers to create a “Gratitude or Thankful Journal” for each day of the year. The objective of a Gratitude Journal is to keep thankfulness in perspective. You must write at least one entry in your journal every day, no matter how you feel. That’s at least 365 reasons why you are grateful each year. You could be thankful for good health, an unexpected gift someone gave you, a raise on your job, grateful that you didn’t get into an accident while driving to and from your destination, or that God kept you and your family safe and sound. You could also be thankful for the opportunity to get another step closer towards your goals.

In retrospect, we think about the past and adopt new ways to make things better. In gratitude, we live passionately, with purpose and continue dancing to the music even when no music is playing. For a happy new year, we adjust our attitudes to be an asset, instead of a liability, to humanity.

With continued peace and abundant prosperity, always celebrate life with your head held high, love in your heart and a song to continue dancing to. Happy New Year everyone!

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Happy Kwanzaa!

2010-12-28T14:30:00.000-05:00

Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday about the festival of the first harvest of the crops. It begins on December 26, and lasts for seven days. The name Kwanzaa, sometimes spelled Kwanza, comes from a phrase which means "first fruits" in Swahili, an East African language. It was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga and first celebrated in 1966 - 1967. Each day is focused on Nguzo Saba, or the seven principles.

Nguzo Saba (Social and Spiritual Principles)

1. UMOJA (UNITY) (oo-MOE-jah)
2. KUJICHAGULIA (SELF DETERMINATION) (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah)
3. UJIMA (COLLECTIVE WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY) (oo-JEE-mah)
4. UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS) (oo-JAH-mah)
5. NIA (PURPOSE) (nee-AH)
6. KUUMBA (CREATIVITY) (koo-OOM-bah)
7. IMANI (FAITH) (ee-MAH-nee)

Happy Kwanzaa everyone!

Why is Christmas Time So Stressful?

2010-12-21T18:51:00.000-05:00

Every year I watch television shows and read articles giving tips on how to avoid being stressed out during the Christmas holiday season. Yes, this is a very busy time of the year, especially in retail. For years, the topic continues to address practical ways to de-stress yourself during the holidays. This opinion piece will not give you a step-by-step list of things to do in order to avoid getting stressed out during the Christmas season. In fact, if we are still discussing this, then we just aren’t getting it.

Somehow, we have gotten wrapped up and trapped into the commercialism of what we made Christmas to be. Our focus is diverted from the true reason why we commemorate such a monumental Holy holiday. When I watch people camp outside of stores in the early morning hours of Black Friday for advertised door busters, and in some situations, a few people start fighting over a sale item, I wonder if it is really worth it. Honestly, I do not think it is.

I celebrate Christmas throughout the year and not just in that 24-hour time span on December 25th. Every day I give praise and commemorate the birth and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Every day, I try to practice peace on earth and goodwill towards everyone with diligence. When I want to buy a gift for someone, I do not need to wait for a special occasion to do so.

During Christmas, we see tons of reenactments of the manger scene. That scene should be indelibly imprinted in our minds, hearts and behavior. If it is, we will truly understand the concept of humbleness and live each day in the spirit of Christmas. When you see a manger scene, is there something about that scene that makes you stressed? I do not know about you, but for me I am reminded that it is not about me, but “for” me. The calm of this scene makes me realize that we are serving a greater purpose than the typical stressed induced frenzy we get trapped into during this time of the year.

There are some gifts I would really like to receive for Christmas, but money can’t buy them. The jovialness and love I received from family and friends who have passed away cannot be wrapped in a cute little package and tucked under the Christmas tree. I miss my mother dearly, and I remember how she painstakingly decorated the Christmas tree every year, as if she was competing in a contest. I hold on to those wonderful memories of my mother and other close family members and friends who are gone. Since it’s impossible to have them here for Christmas, they are wrapped in a spectacular gift box in my memory. As I look at those family members and friends I love dearly who are still here, I cherish their priceless love.

So when we sing, “Oh Holy Night, the stars are brightly shining…” try looking up from time to time at night and see that the stars continue to shine brightly. Try not to be hellacious throughout the year and make the peace that we sing about on Christmas, be our mantra every day. Why is Christmas time so stressful? It isn’t. We allow the nonessentials to induce stress. If we could embrace every day with that Christmas spirit we lovingly capture during this time of the year, then we would not have to worry about being stressed out at all.

Merry Christmas! Be safe out there and celebrate responsibly.

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Celebrate Life!

2010-12-17T04:00:00.000-05:00

"It has been said, 'time heals all wounds.' I do not agree. The wounds remain. In time, the mind, protecting its sanity, covers them with scar tissue and the pain lessens. But it is never gone." — Rose Kennedy

I do not wait for a designated time to celebrate the gift of life! I do not wait until a death occurs, to appreciate life. There is not a day that goes by where I do not thank God for blessing me with the breath of life.

There are certain memories during the Christmas season, as well as other holidays, that take us to a gloomy place. Many people were here this time last year, but are not this year. There is a constant void left in our hearts of loved ones we miss dearly that could never be replaced. As we look at the way our lives have changed through tragedy, pain, health challenges, abuse or financial difficulty, we try to hold on to a sense of hope by strengthening our faith. We may be bruised, but we are not broken.

In the hustle and bustle of our lives, we have to stop frequently and breathe. Although we cannot change the events of the past, we have the ability to change our attitudes when approaching the possibilities of the future. We must inhale a newness of life every day and exhale the toxins of distress.

Today, find something to smile about even if your heart is aching. We may not be able to erase those memories of sadness, but we can intensify our pursuit of happiness! Celebrate life!

www.kymgmoore.com

Encouraging Quote

2010-12-14T11:11:00.000-05:00

"One can never consent to creep, when one feels an impulse to soar"
- Helen Keller

December is AIDS Awareness Month

2010-12-04T19:42:00.000-05:00

AIDS Awareness Month begins each year with World AIDS Day on Dec. 1. It is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) pandemic, caused by the spread of HIV infection. HIV( Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is transmitted through direct contact of a mucous membrane or the bloodstream with a bodily fluid containing HIV, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk The awareness campaign is commemorated with events around the world.

Did you know that an estimated 56,300 Americans are infected with HIV each year? Were you aware that approximately 1.1 million Americans are living with HIV/AIDS?

To learn more about HIV/AIDS, please visit http://www.aids.gov/. Thank you. Peace & Blessings Always!

Celebrating Advent and Hanukkah

2010-12-02T14:16:00.000-05:00

This is the first week we are celebrating Advent and the second day of Hanukkah.
Advent (meaning “arrival” or “coming”) is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. It celebrates the revelation of God in Christ where all of creation will be reconciled to God. There are four Sundays in Advent and the primary sanctuary color has historically been purple.

Hanukkah is a Jewish festival celebrated for eight days and nights, marking the rededication to Judaism of the Temple in Jerusalem in 165 BC. It is celebrated by the kindling of eight lights. Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev, and lasts for eight days. Kislev is the Hebrew month corresponding to November – December.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!!!

2010-11-24T04:40:00.000-05:00

Did you know that in 1941, Thanksgiving was finally sanctioned by Congress as a legal holiday that is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November? When the Pilgrims who sailed on the Mayflower arrived at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620 their first winter was devastating. Many of the original colonists perished.

It is believed that if it weren’t for the help of the Native Americans, the Pilgrims would not have survived through the year. The harvest of 1621 was bountiful and the remaining colonists decided to celebrate with a feast that included 91 Indians who helped them survive their first year.

As we reflect on this tidbit of Thanksgiving Day trivia, let us remember to do the following things to show how thankful we are throughout the year:

Give thanks for a new day,
it’s a gift from God.

Give thanks for your food,
someone had to plant, grow and harvest it.

Give thanks for your freedom,
someone gave up their life for it.

Give thanks to your elders,
they pioneered the way for your journey.

Give thanks for your job,
thousands of people are unemployed.

Give thanks for your home
far too many are sleeping on the streets.

Give thanks always
it gives value to your life and improves your attitude.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
Continued Peace & Bountiful Blessings!

Kym Gordon Moore

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

My Editorial Soapbox About the Transportation Security Administration

2010-11-22T12:37:00.000-05:00

I don’t plan to travel by airplane any time soon, but I am a little dismayed by recent complaints targeted towards the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), regarding the security measures taking place at our airports. While I don’t agree with any form of invasive or inappropriate touching, regardless of who it is, I have to say that we can’t let our guard down, simply because some people find it inconvenient and time consuming to go through these security measures. While nothing is foolproof, at least we have something in place that will help to ease the anxiousness of many travelers.

Now, for some reason it seems like many people in our country have short-term memory about recent terrorist threats and attacks occurring around the world. It is also no secret that a lot of hostility and hatred is pointed toward the United States of America. Our enemies have just as much high tech access as we do, and they watch our pattern of behavior with razor sharp observation. We cannot continue to assume that all of these terrorists live in caves or underground bunkers. They are blending in with everyone else to avoid drawing attention to their plots. We are even finding increased reports of terroristic recruiting and sleeper cells among our own citizens. In the most unlikely places we are finding homegrown terrorists in our own backyards.

Recently, there was a report on our local news about a 16-year-old high school student caught with a lot of bomb making ingredients in his home. Surprisingly, his mother said she had no idea what her son was up to. The 16-year-old was arrested, because he allegedly made a bomb that he inserted inside a “writing pen,” then placed it on one of his teacher’s desk at school. The pen was intended to harm the teacher, but another student apparently picked up the pen first. The pen exploded, causing serious injury to that student. Yep, an undetected, regular writing pen did some serious damage to an innocent victim. Was this teenage suspect from an ethnic culture or with a foreign background that we stereotypically equate with terrorism? Not at all. This is a young man who you would probably least suspect. One has to wonder the magnitude of damage or how many lives could have perished if something as unsuspecting as a writing pen was planted in a few of our transportation systems.

Another thing I “don’t” agree with regarding recent complaints about the TSA, is not requiring children to go through some type of security check. I say this because of a conversation I had with my husband who is a Vietnam Veteran. Although in the United States we value the lives of our children, in some hostile regions, particularly where they start training children very early to sacrifice their lives for combat, by any means necessary, is a very real thing. I heard stories that my husband and a few former Vietnam Vets told about children holding a weapon directed at them when they were fighting the war, and they naturally assumed that the child was playing with a toy. How far from the truth that was. Many soldiers found out too late that these children easily infiltrated their platoon and the troops never knew what hit them. The compassionate spirit of our soldiers could not allow them to shoot and kill these children, but when you are staring down the barrel of an assault machine gun or see them take the pin out of a hand grenade, you have to make a life or death decision. Now, we may not think like that in our country, but there are cultures who train their children early, to become human weapons of destruction. Although I think these children are victims, they are only following directions and doing what they are told to do, just as we normally train our children to listen and follow the rules. Thus, the innocent become malicious. It’s scary, but it’s real.

We have to stop whining about the little inconveniences that make us stop and heed certain warnings. If something tragic happened, then some folks would be protesting and screaming about why the government didn’t protect us better. I do not suggest that we live in fear. But our world is quite different from the way it used to be. There are people out here who have little regard for human life. There are people out here who hate just because. As long as we continue to be divided on an issue that I really don’t think should be up for discussion right now, adversaries are taking notice of our distractions and quarrelling, and know just when to plan their attack. We could end up being our own worst enemy.

Sometimes I think we tend to be very spoiled in this country and don’t truly appreciate the freedoms we have and those who made sacrifices for us to enjoy those freedoms. It’s a part of life, when we have to endure some little inconveniences from time to time. Now this is not a PSA for the TSA, but it is their responsibility to do what they are assigned to do. As law-abiding citizens, we should be on our knees praying for ways that we can help make things better, instead of being a hindrance.

As you go about your everyday routine, let’s learn to be grateful instead of being unappreciative. Let’s learn to be the United States of America, instead of the Divided States of America. This is not about religious, financial, ethnic or political affiliations. This country has an impressive melting pot of diversity. This is about unification. This is about sustaining love and the pursuit of happiness. In unity, there is strength. In division, there is weakness. Let us focus on being an asset instead of a liability.

Peace and blessings to everyone. Be safe out there!

Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.”
- Matthew 12:25 (NIV)

Don't Quit!

2010-11-18T04:04:00.000-05:00

Don't Quit!

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Success is failure turned inside out,

The silver tint on the clouds of doubt,

And you can never tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems afar.

So, stick to the fight when you're hardest hit

It's when things go wrong that you mustn't quit.

—Unknown

Happy Veterans Day 2010

2010-11-11T04:08:00.000-05:00

Today we are celebrating Veterans Day, which is also known as Armistice Day. Veteran’s Day is typically celebrated on November 11th and was first incorporated by President Wilson as Armistice Day in 1919. Other countries still recognize November 11th as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in honor of the Armistice treaty, which ended World War I. In 1954, Congress changed the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day.

To all of our veterans near and far, retired or still on active duty, regardless of which war you fought in, we not only honor you for your service today, but every day. If it wasn’t for your patriotism to serve your country, we would not have the freedoms we enjoy today. Thank you and may God continue to bless you and your family.

The Face of Diabetes

2010-11-05T10:41:00.000-04:00

November is American Diabetes Awareness Month. Every month since Easter Sunday 2003, I can never forget what this vicious disease stole from me. My mother died from complications resulting from diabetes. My grandmother and several members of our family also succumbed to this dreadful disease previously, so I definitely take it personal.

As a member of that high risk group of individuals who will potentially develop this disease, I try to practice as many preventative measures as I can. Research is continuing to reveal some alarming statistics that show a steady increase in diabetes. Often many people don’t realize that it could cause a stroke, heart attack, blindness, kidney failure and/or amputations. The mission of the American Diabetes Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.

Do you know the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes? Are genetics involved? Are you at risk? If you are, do you know what to do in order to control this disease? Did you know that one out of every three children born today will face a future with diabetes if current trends continue? Diabetes is not merely a condition, but a disease with deadly consequences.

Our families continue to be effected by the perils of this deadly disease every single day. We can’t continue to keep putting off doing something about it when there is a ton of information out there to help us become better advocates. Join the movement to stop diabetes. Do it today! Check out this link to the American Diabetes Association and educate yourself on what you can do to make a difference in your family’s life. http://www.diabetes.org/

To Your Health,
Kym Gordon Moore

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Today is MAKE A DIFFERENCE Day!

2010-10-23T07:09:00.000-04:00

“In every community there is work to be done. In every nation there are wounds to heal. In every heart there is the power to do it.”
- Marianne Williamson

Millions of Americans are committed to and participating in projects of good deeds on this annual day of volunteering, “Make A Difference Day.” Kids, families, celebrities, professional athletes, corporate citizens, governmental leaders and students alike are doing something to make a difference in their communities on the nation's largest day of service. Volunteerism is energizing! When people volunteer, they find a need that they are passionate about in order to help others. One person doing little things can truly make a big difference in someone’s life.

You do not have to be a celebrity in order to make a monumental gift from your heart. Although money is definitely needed in helping many causes, the random acts of kindness are the impressions that make lasting memories. We applaud everyone who is participating in this largest national day of service, but we salute you even more if you are volunteering and making a difference throughout the year.

“To show great love for God and our neighbor we need not do great things. It is how much love we put in the doing that makes our offering something beautiful for God.”
- Mother Teresa

Domestic Violence = Deadly Consequences

2010-10-09T13:38:00.000-04:00

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Recently, I was reading in our local newspaper some disturbing reports about more abused women seeking emergency shelter due to an increase in domestic violence. Regardless of the causes, there is a tremendous amount of stress on many families due to a myriad of reasons. Some oppressors are not strong enough to divert their frustrations and anxieties on something positive or solutions-based. Instead violence seems to be the most logical way they handle these frustrations. Regardless of the reasons for domestic violence, there are more people, including innocent children who are acutely victimized. Recently in the news, we have witnessed the deadly consequences that result from domestic violence in murder/suicide cases.

There are many organizations providing a safe house for women and children who are fleeing from a dangerous abuser and seeking emergency refuge. If you are being abused or know someone who is, please seek help as quickly as possible. The abuse will not just simply go away completely. Sometimes the abuser will halt for a moment, but when something sets them off again, you do not know whether it’s going to be your last breath, that of your children or even other family members.

I often meet many women through some of my volunteer work, who barely escaped their abuser with just the clothes they have on their backs. Many people who have not been in a serious situation such as domestic violence or being a victim in some way, are clueless why these victims (mostly women), do not pack a bag and leave immediately. Trust me, it’s not that simple sometimes. These abusers are intimidators and the victims feel powerless. Often the victims have no money, no family or friends to turn to and they continue to suffer silently and often cover up and defend their abusers. Recognizing the signs of abusive relations is something that you must be aware of. When a so-called love tap turns into a boxing match...that’s abuse. Start planning how you will escape. You are being held hostage mentally, emotionally and physically. At some point, once the victim turn their fear into courage, they will escape their abusers.

We are going to have to stop the madness of this disease that’s eating away at our families, leaving serious scars and taking innocent lives. To learn more about how you can become involved in the Domestic Violence Awareness initiative, please check out this website:

The Mission of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) is to organize for collective power by advancing transformative work, thinking and leadership of communities and individuals working to end the violence in our lives. http://www.ncadv.org/

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

National Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month

2010-10-01T22:41:00.000-04:00

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. While there is a laundry list of various monthly observances occurring and celebrated during the month of October, they include these two causes we are witnessing and experiencing, that are so crucial to the survival of family and friends.

Please read this resourceful article that we found published in the New York Times about Breast Cancer: http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/breast-cancer/overview.html?inline=nyt-classifier.

To learn more about how you can become involved in the Domestic Violence Awareness initiative, please check out these websites: http://www.ncadv.org/ or http://dvam.vawnet.org/.

We cannot stand by and allow these two diseases to rob our families of life and longevity. We invite you to read more about them and help out in any way you can. Your community and your family cannot be ignored.

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Have You Considered Donating Life?

2010-09-23T18:07:00.000-04:00

I’m sure we all have been asked by our physicians or an emergency room staff member if we are an organ donor. Did it ever occur to you to register as an organ donor? Nope, I am not talking about donating that musical instrument with strong spiritual sounds ringing from the keyboards that you often find in worship institutions. I’m speaking of organs such as kidneys, heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, and the intestines. Or tissue donation such as corneas, the middle ear, skin, heart valves, bone, veins, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.

Recently, I was sent a survey to complete for an organization I am a member of, in a campaign to get its members to register as an organ donor. I have to admit that I thought about signing up, but never really pursued the thought any further. After watching the 2002 movie “John Q” starring Denzel Washington, it made me rethink my hesitation and decision to give life after death. In case many of you have not seen this movie, John Q is a film by Nick Cassavetes; starring Denzel Washington as John Quincy Archibald, a father and husband whose son is diagnosed with an enlarged heart and then finds out he cannot receive a transplant because his HMO insurance will not cover it. Therefore, he decides to take a hospital full of patient’s hostage until the hospital puts his son's name on the recipient's list. As the movie climaxes, just when John Q decides to take his life so that his son could have his heart, a young lady who was in a fatal car accident, was an organ donor and miraculously her heart was flown to the hospital to be implanted in John Q’s son. (Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Q)

Here are some interesting facts from the website of Donate Life America, to help you understand the truth vs. the myths of organ donation:

Fact: Anyone can be a potential donor regardless of age, race, or medical history.

Fact: All major religions in the United States support organ, eye and tissue donation and see it as the final act of love and generosity toward others.

Fact: If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the number one priority is to save your life. Organ, eye and tissue donation can only be considered after you are deceased.

Fact: When you are on the waiting list for an organ, what really counts is the severity of your illness, time spent waiting, blood type, and other important medical information, not your financial status or celebrity status.

Fact: An open casket funeral is possible for organ, eye and tissue donors. Through the entire donation process the body is treated with care, respect and dignity.

Fact: There is no cost to the donor or their family for organ or tissue donation.

A national computer network, the OPTN (Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network) matches donated organs with recipients throughout the country. Transplant success rates increase when organs are matched between members of the same ethnic background. Consequently, a lack of organs donated by multicultural populations can contribute to longer waiting periods for transplantation.

For more information, check out these following websites: http://organdonor.gov/ and http://www.donatelife.net/. Also, check out this clip of a touching story where a little girl’s heart, becomes a humungous gift of life, that gives a mother a second chance! http://news.mydaily.com/2010/09/23/heart-to-heart/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-main-n%7Cdl8%7Csec1_lnk2%7C172553.

Sense of Connection

2010-09-16T16:07:00.000-04:00

(Includes excerpts from the book, Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit, by Kym Gordon Moore)

The early morning hours are one of the most tranquil times of the day to watch life unfold all around me and take in how much nature changed overnight. I notice so many new flower buds or tiny leaves beginning to sprout from the branches on my plants and trees. My attitude is to celebrate life every moment of the day. Normally, as I start my day off in prayer and meditation, I’m always talking to God. Like a little chatter box, I always seem to have something to talk to God about. But, on one particular morning, the LORD clearly spoke to me and told me to sit outside and be quiet. He challenged me to use this quiet time to become connected to all of my senses. This directive took me by surprise and I had no idea what was in store for me.

I realize that in our lives we will always go through one challenge or another. It’s how we choose to deal with it, while trying to sustain a sense of peace, even in the midst of chaotic circumstances, that makes the difference. I discovered that my assignment this morning reached beyond reading my Bible. A supernatural conversation was about to take place and to my surprise, it was a healing and reenergizing session.

There is a time when we must sit still, listen and observe. You can’t hear when there’s a lot of background noise and hurriedness going on around you. Confusion, challenges and problems stir up anxiousness, worriation and weakness. Each sensory organ serves a unique, fundamental purpose and is designed to work together. As I run into people who may be challenged in, or devoid of one or more of their physical senses, I notice that their other functioning senses become more intuitive. Their weaker senses rely on their stronger senses, similar to the way a backup generator kicks in, when the electrical power goes out.

Our sense of connection makes us messengers of hope, so use your senses wisely. As I look around nowadays, I see far too many instances where people are so broken, that they’ve given up hope. If they lost hope, then their faith is displaced, due to distractions and a disconnection from their Power Source (God the Father). When we operate in Godly wisdom, we will be able to see hear, taste, touch and smell beyond human comprehension. This is the poetry of spiritual saturation versus emotional stimulation.

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Rising From the Ashes of 9/11

2010-09-11T08:35:00.000-04:00

As we remember the events of September 11, 2001, I hope that as a nation of resilient people, we are stronger, wiser and more unified than we have been. Monumental disasters always test the human spirit and although we don’t forget, we move forward with courage, important lessons that we learned and hope for a brighter tomorrow.

In light of the extremist ramblings from a few citizens in this country, as well as around the world, we must remember that the events that took place on 9/11 didn’t kill us, but made us stronger. We must be mindful not to clump everyone from a particular race, religion, creed, culture or socioeconomic status in one category, due to these particular extremists, because that will continue to be the kindling that reignites the inferno. Other horrific terroristic attacks that took place on our soil, by our own citizens, brought us together to the table of peace as we transcended the brutality. The 1995 Oklahoma City Bombings, the 1921 Black Wall Street Massacre, the countless nationwide school and college shootings, or the daily criminal elements preying on the innocent, are just a few.

“The LORD said, "What have you done? Listen! Your brother's blood cries out to me from the ground. Now you are under a curse and driven from the ground, which opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand.” Genesis 4:10-11 (New International Version)

We will always find that diabolical element in all sectors of our local, national and global communities, but that doesn’t mean that the people of those communities embrace the extremists among their own. We must understand that many of these masterminds of evil may not be caught, yet their deeds will catch up with them. We must also realize that if we were to assassinate the leaders of radicalism, there are still the “seeds” they planted, continuing to germinate and spread like a weed that we have to contend with. But let us not walk around in fear or as prisoners of our emotions. Neither let us get trigger-happy, nor crucify the innocent as a form of retaliation, because it will only make matters worse. In order to be healed, we must understand with our hearts.

So on this day, we won’t cast aside the importance or side-effects of our memories. But, let us not get trapped in the abyss of hatred, bitterness and depression in spite of our hurt and woundedness. We won’t forget those lives that were lost, or the people never found, because just like the twin towers, they will always be landmarks in our hearts. Although we wish we could, we can’t go back and rewrite the past, but we will celebrate our gift of life, freedom, equality and hopefully wisdom! We strive for world peace, but we must first start with charity in our own homes, communities, municipalities, schools, businesses and worship institutions, before it can resonate internationally.

“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful." -Colossians 3:13-15 (King James Version)

Happy Labor Day!

2010-09-04T20:39:00.000-04:00

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. Check out more about this memorable holiday at http://www.dol.gov/opa/aboutdol/laborday.htm.

Exercise caution and responsibility! Have a safe and celebratory Labor Day everyone!

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Saluting Charles L. Webber, Founder of Faith Ministries, Inc.

2010-08-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

Established in 1999 and inspired by the blessed, miraculous birth of his daughter Faith, Pastor Charles L. Webber became the Founder and CEO of Faith Ministries, Incorporated. Faith Ministries, Inc. is located in Shelby, North Carolina and serves the surrounding townships and cities of Cleveland and Gaston counties. Pastor Webber understands that the greatest assets in our community are the people who live there. Quite often, people do not know where to go or who to contact when they are in need of core necessities. Faith Ministries, Inc. collaborates and builds alliances with various community agencies, community-based ministries, local and statewide businesses, to serve as an intermediary to help find the answers to the questions many members of the community need. The motto of Faith Ministries, Inc. is “The substance of things hoped for!”

Charles Webber realizes that we have to stop the generational poverty, illiteracy and carnage that plague more communities than we care to count. “We are not ignorant to the fact that these problems can become catastrophic once these issues start to hemorrhage into our neighborhoods,” he says. After reading a recent report with alarming statistics about the plight of at-risk youth in the surrounding communities, Charles Webber decided to engage these youngsters in something they enjoy doing, while requiring them to become actively involved in some type of community outreach activity.

He designed and is launching a new program in 2011 called “Storming for Success.” This summer youth development program will enable 50-75 underprivileged and disadvantaged boys and girls between the ages of 13-18 to receive some much needed support and assistance in three key areas: academic enrichment, life skills training, and job-seeking/employment skills training. Sessions will be conducted by former NBA and college players about the value of participating in AAU sports. Local and area leaders will speak to participants about job-seeking skills, developing good work and academic study habits, effectively dealing with peer pressure, proper etiquette at home and in the community, as well as several other personal empowerment sessions. The objective is to teach the youth how to pay it forward to others naturally, while building character and life skills for their future.

As we discovered with many local nonprofit organizations, Faith Ministries, Inc. does not receive any state or federal funding and depend on in-kind donations to keep their community programs operating. For more information about Faith Ministries, Inc. and how you can help, please visit their website at http://www.ministryoffaithinc.org/. While there, you may sign up for their FREE e-newsletter, The Fountain where you can keep up with all of the latest community projects Faith Ministries, Inc. is spearheading and participating in. For inquiries, you may contact Pastor Charles Webber at info@ministryoffaithinc.org.

Favorite Things for a CAUSE salutes Pastor Charles L. Webber for never giving up hope when situations, people and circumstances appear hopeless. Faith Ministries, Inc. is not only the substance of things hoped for, but it is undoubtedly the evidence of things not seen!

Congratulations April Faith Eason, Winner of “In the Spirit of Inspiration” Book Give-a-way!

2010-08-16T08:05:00.000-04:00

When we do the best that we can, we never know what miracle is wrought in our life, or in the life of another.
-- Helen Keller

April Faith Eason is a 29-year-old single mother of two boys who are nine and ten. She is a full time student majoring in social work at UNC Charlotte. She is very passionate about being able to travel to Africa and helping to educate and provide medical treatment for those infected with HIV/AIDS after completion of her BSW. April loves God with all of her heart. We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose says April. She believes that God is preparing her to go places she has never been and to see things she has never seen.

Congratulations April! Thank you for your support and be blessed by your great reads.

www.kymgmoore.com

Congratulations Carolyn Graham-Murray, Winner of “In the Spirit of Inspiration” Book Give-a-way!

2010-08-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

Life is a series of experiences, each one of which makes us bigger, even though it is hard to realize this. For the world was built to develop character, and we must learn that the setbacks and griefs which we endure help us in our marching onward.
-- Henry Ford

Carolyn Graham-Murray, one of our "In the Spirit of Inspiration" Grand Prize winners, lives in Columbia, South Carolina. She is a graduate of Benedict College and the mother of one son, Brandon Murray. She is a member of the Young Chapel Church in Columbia, where she serves as the Planning Committee Coordinator. She is an Account Executive for Fashion Fair Cosmetics covering the Southeastern part of South Carolina and August, Georgia regions. Her favorite hobbies include cooking, entertaining and reading great magazines. Her motto is “Put God First!”

Congratulations Carolyn! Thank you for your support and be blessed by your great reads.

www.kymgmoore.com

GRADUATION DAY 2010!

2010-08-08T21:10:00.000-04:00

The day seemed so surreal as I marched into the Time Warner Arena behind hundreds of Masters Degree candidates to the area where people stood in front of our section holding oversized flags on poles that clearly identified who we were. Even as I glanced over at the neighboring section of students where oversized flags indicated that they were the Bachelors Degree candidates, I was reminded of the journey I took, when I sat in the same section as I graduated from the University of South Carolina 30 years ago. Thirty years ago? Yep, exactly 30 years and 3 months ago! Even in the excitement of cheering family members and friends who packed the designated visitors section of the arena and over 800 degree candidates, I am swept away by the sounds of the bag-pipes as the ceremony began.

Now, sitting here the day after Commencement Exercises, I believe it is finally setting in that I sat in an audience of my peers, listening to inspiring speeches, and then walking down the aisle to march on stage and shake the hands of college officials, congratulating me on another one of my monumental achievements. Just hearing the bittersweet sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance” indicates that we shall stand tall, collapse in the arms of our accomplishments and grasp our mandate to serve our purpose as God intends. Now that I am an official Masters of Business Administration Degree recipient, I am elated and grateful to God for getting me through some difficult and frustrating days of climbing this academic mountain. One of my nieces asked me, “so what are you going to do next?” I said, “I’m not sure exactly what it is, but it will entail climbing a bigger mountain as I keep dancing and celebrating life!” And as Forrest Gump says: “That’s all I have to say about that!” But stay tuned! I just may surprise myself! I am not ruling out a doctorate degree at this point!

I encourage you to dream bigger dreams, turn your visions into reality, extend your hands to help someone along the way and encourage them to go to the mountaintop and experience excellence and greatness. Be all that you can be and remember…time waits for no one!

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

A Soul Stirring Multi-Cultural Experience!

2010-08-05T22:10:00.000-04:00

I had the honor and pleasure of attending a fabulous event on Wednesday evening, August 4, 2010 that was hosted by the Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange (WIE) and The Light Factory located in Spirit Square, in uptown Charlotte, NC. The exhibition, “My Family, My Culture” was such a powerful, emotional and spiritual experience. WIE members used the power of photography to tell stories that illustrated their culture, their families and their everyday lives. As you viewed each exhibit and read the myriad of stories representing a diversity of cultures of Native American, African American, Italian, Indian, Hispanic and many others, we discovered that we are so much alike. For more information about the Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange, visit their website at http://www.wi-ce.org/.

The Light Factory, a contemporary museum of photography and film, spearheaded the creation of the museum quality exhibits for each one of the participants. If you live in Charlotte, North Carolina, I urge you to take some time to visit The Light Factory, whose mission reaches the school system and the community to teach them about the power of photography and the aesthetics surrounding this amazing art form. Here is the information for only one of four contemporary museums of photography and film in the United States:

The Light Factory
345 North College Street
Charlotte, North Carolina
704-333-9755
http://www.lightfactory.org/

For the Rest of 2010

2010-08-01T12:53:00.000-04:00

As of today, August 1, 2010, we can officially say that we have 5 months remaining in this year. Just like everyone else, I continue to have my share of challenges in one area or another and sometimes the agony from the pressure seems unbearable. On the other hand, I am reminded to celebrate my life’s purpose and achievements. When I think about my short-term and long-term strategy for emerging from the ashes of discouragement, adversity and alleged defeat, I reflect on this scripture that has become my daily mantra: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3: 5-6)

I welcome and grip a sense of peace that tells me to focus on God instead of my circumstances. I pray that I can truly be a catalyst of encouragement to others that energizes their spirit to strive towards upward mobility, instead of downward stagnation. Sometimes life deals us an unexpected deck of cards where the odds seem to be stacked against us. Yet, we take the hand we are dealt, and ask God to show us His divine plan, through possibilities that seem humanly impossible.

May we continue to embrace the fruits of the spirit that will lead us to our divine calling and the impact we make on others: Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness and Temperance. Let us reenergize our minds, body and spirit. However, if we are caught up in the midst of a ball of confusion, that often hits us like a run-a-way freight train, we must remember to step out of that circle of chaos into the arms of quiet serenity extended from God. Continue to be encouraged by embracing the peace within. Do not allow the current challenges of life to dictate the rest of the chapter you are writing for the balance of this year.

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

2010-07-26T04:18:00.000-04:00

In the midst of some challenging circumstances that we see in the various sectors of our lives, there still remains a constant sense of humanity that resonates beyond our reach. Throughout our communities, worship institutions, educational institutions and social networks, we witness many young people stepping up to the plate, to help those who may be suffering, lonely or less fortunate than they are. We applaud these young people who are not afraid to reach out and use their creative juices to set some profound examples of humanitarianism, hope and encouragement.

One of the organizations that recently caught our attention is Grab the Torch©. According to their website,

Grab The Torch© recognized the importance of preparing the next generation for their upcoming role and responsibility as volunteers, board and committee members and visionaries for the non-profit world long before the current economic crisis. There has never been a more critical time in our history to understand and support philanthropy and the global greater good than right now. The students need an understanding and foundation to prepare themselves for their upcoming role in society. It will be a road map for their future; a tool to guide, not to dictate. The students will take many directions, some following their families, some going 180 degrees due to personal affinities. We will encourage participation on any level. There are endless pieces of the greater good puzzle, each student holds a valuable role for the greater good.

Why not think about hosting a philanthropy camp for the children in your neighborhood, church or school. Be sure to set the example as well, so that our young people can see your convictions in action. The rewards will be greater than you think. For more information about Grab the Torch©, you can check out their website: http://www.grabthetorch.org/index.htm.

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Ten Ideas for Everyday Outreach | Articles | BuildingChurchLeaders.com

2010-07-21T10:19:00.000-04:00

I came across this article with some simple tips on easily reaching out to everyday people in a sincere and practical way. I hope you will find these tips helpful, as a reminder to continue practicing a kind, random act of service to others who may really need it just when they least expect it! Have a beautiful and prospersous day everyone!

Ten Ideas for Everyday Outreach
No elaborate planning necessary.
By Dana Wilkerson

1. Pay attention to the people around you in your neighborhood or at work. Send up an arrow prayer as you walk by them.

2. Be mindful of those who serve you—bank tellers, grocery store clerks, fast food workers. Look them in the eye and tell them you appreciate their service.

3. Leave a note of encouragement on a coworker's desk or on the windshield of their car.

4. When you walk past a piece of trash on the ground, pick it up and throw it in a garbage can.

5. When someone says they're having a bad day, stop and ask if you can pray for them right there.

6. At the drive-thru, pay for the meal of the person behind you.

7. Stop and talk with a homeless person. Find out their story.

8. Before leaving a restaurant, jot a thank you note to your server and leave it on the table or call the manager over and explain how much you enjoyed the service.

9. Go out of your way to be friendly to a prickly person.

10. When you're talking with someone, give them the gift of your full attention.

Ten Ideas for Everyday Outreach Articles BuildingChurchLeaders.com

It's In The Valleys I Grow

2010-07-12T18:22:00.000-04:00

Are you feeling a little discouraged today? Do you feel like things are just falling apart all around you? Or do you feel like you are smack dab in the middle of a Level 7 tornado and can’t find your way out? Is your money playing that “now you see me, now you don’t” game? Are there people in your life who have a negative or resentful spirit, are non-supportive or those who have disappointed you in one way or another? Are family members or friends acting irrationally and probably borderline psychotic? Are the bills stacking up and you feel like your life is in utter chaos?

Well, let us say this to you: “Be encouraged today, no matter what’s going on.” Step outside of that circle of chaos! Yes, we know that this is easier said than done. No, we do not know what type of circumstances you may be facing at this moment, but rest assure you honestly can’t worry about it. Everyone is going through one adversity or another right now as you are reading this. There is no easy solution or magical formula to overcoming your challenges, but there is one thing that works and it is the gift of prayer. But the key to prayer, is not just engaging in it when you are in dire straits. Do it through the good times and do it with a grateful heart. Worrying will only make you more stressed out and sick. When that happens, then you are faced with another problem…medical bills!

So as we take one day at a time, let’s do it with gratitude, no matter what. This poem, written by Jane Eggleston has been circulating for years now and after rereading it, it reminds you of the strength you get from some of life’s most unpredictable circumstances, in the valleys of your life! If you read it before, it’s good to read again. Be strong and be encouraged!

It's In The Valleys I Grow

Sometimes life seems hard to bear,

Full of sorrow, trouble and woe

It's then I have to remember

That it's in the valleys I grow.

If I always stayed on the mountaintop

And never experienced pain,

I would never appreciate God's love

And would be living in vain.

I have so much to learn

And my growth is very slow,

Sometimes I need the mountain tops,

But it's in the valleys I grow.

I do not always understand

Why things happen as they do,

But I am very sure of one thing.

My Lord will see me through.

My little valleys are nothing

When I picture Christ on the cross

He went through the valley of death;

His victory was Satan's loss.

Forgive me Lord, for complaining

When I'm feeling so very low.

Just give me a gentle reminder

That it's in the valleys I grow.

Continue to strengthen me, Lord

And use my life each day

To share your love with others

And help them find their way.

Thank you for valleys, Lord

For this one thing I know

The mountain tops are glorious

But it's in the valleys I grow!

(This poem was written by Jane Eggleston who currently lives in Virginia. Her son Jeff states, "She is a wonderful person, loves Jesus and has been the best mother anyone could ever ask for." What a fitting tribute to any mother.)

NON-PROFITS: It isn’t too early to think about your end-of-the-year fundraising

2010-07-08T14:31:00.000-04:00

As you strengthen your relationship with your organization’s supporters, emphasizing those tax deductions can be especially appealing to your donors. Tax breaks are major influencers to your supporters. Charitable donations are tax-deductible expenses and must be itemized. If your donors have any questions about filling out a Form 1040 Schedule A, advise them to consult with their tax preparer on claiming their deductions and the percentage limits on their particular overall tax deductions. Such limits include:

· Generally, you can deduct cash contributions in full up to 50% of your adjusted gross income.
· Generally, you can deduct property contributions in full up to 30% of your adjusted gross income.
· Generally, you can deduct contributions of appreciated capital gains assets in full up to 20% of your adjusted gross income.

The excess of these limits on Charitable contributions can possibly be carried over for a maximum of five years. Individuals still need to consult their tax preparers regarding their particular situation. Here is a great article published by Network for Good entitled “Holidays in July: Get a Jump on End-of-the-Year Fundraising” by Rebecca Higman and Julie Stofer, that lists some great tips on kicking off your holiday fundraising right now. http://www.fundraising123.org/article/holidays-july-get-jump-end-year-fundraising

www.kymgmoore.com

My Challenge To You On This 2010 Independence Day!

2010-07-03T14:16:00.000-04:00

As we embark on this traditional day in July when we celebrate our independence, let’s take a brief trip down memory lane about the real story behind our 4th of July celebration.

Independence Day, or the 4th of July as we refer to it here in the United States, is a federal holiday that commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress, on July 4, 1776. The Declaration announced that the 13 American Colonies (Maine - then part of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, Georgia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island), were no longer a part of the British Empire and are now independent states.

There is so much to be proud of in this great country of ours and we must be ever so mindful to never take our freedom, which so many fought and died for, for granted. With that in mind, it is very painful to realize that so many Americans do not know some of the basic allegiances and tributes to our country. On this day, if you do not know any of the following, I urge all of you to learn these and many other historical facts that shaped the United States into the great country it is today.

Pledge of Allegience (an oath of loyalty to the national flag and the republic of the United States of America, originally composed by Francis Bellamy in 1892. It should be recited while standing at attention with the right hand over the heart; military personnel must salute.) http://www.ushistory.org/documents/pledge.htm.

My Country Tis of Thee (Song) http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh697.sht.

Oh Beautiful (Song) http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/o/b/obfsskis.htm.

The Star Spangled Banner (Song) http://kids.niehs.nih.gov/lyrics/spangle.htm.

How can we expect others to respect our country if we don’t know it’s history and respect it ourselves! So today, empower yourself! Stand tall and be proud!

May God continue to strengthen us as a united people and may we continue to pray for the truths that united us as a Christian-founded nation, based on strong Biblical principles that we need to get back on track with today! God bless all of you!

HAPPY 4th of JULY Everyone!

http://www.kymgmoore.com/

Free Nonprofit 911 Training Sessions!

2010-07-01T17:28:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, July 13
1 pm ET
Join Beth Kanter and Allison Fine, authors of The Networked Nonprofit for a discussion of How to Use Social Media to Accomplish More with Less
Call includes a book giveaway
RegisterNow

Tuesday, July 20
1 pm ET
The Upside of Irrationality
Are your donors as rational as you think they are?
with Dan Ariely, author of Predictably Irrational and The Upside of Irrationality
RegisterNow

For more information about the services, seminars and other non-profit helpmates from Network for Good, check out their website: http://www1.networkforgood.org/.

1st Anniversary of Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit

2010-06-25T20:06:00.000-04:00

A year ago I announced the birth and launch of my book, "Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit." It has been an exciting year and I am truly blessed by all of you who purchased or received the book as a gift. I will be announcing the birth of another book coming soon. Many people asked for information on where to purchase "Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit" and I promised to repost where the book is available. Your local bookstore can order it for you if they do not have it in stock. Simply supply them with my full name and the complete title of the book. Or if you prefer, you can order it from one of the following online locations:

Barnes and Noble
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=book&ATH=Kym%20Gordon%20Moore

Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/Diversities-Gifts-Kym-Gordon-Moore/dp/1432730428/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1246509821&sr=1-1

BOOKS-A-MILLION
http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781432730420?id=4754127318109

Thanks once again to all of you for a very exciting year! I look forward to sharing more upcoming releases very soon! Peace & Blessings Everyone!

Kym Gordon Moore
Author of Diversities of Gifts: Same Spirit
http://www.kymgmoore.com/

"No one can see your visions and dreams as clearly as you can. Purpose is the key to creation, manifested through vision!" - Kym Gordon Moore

Saluting the First Graders of Wilderness Oak Elementary School

2010-06-24T10:08:00.001-04:00

We came across an inspiring and exciting story about a class of first graders attending Wilderness Oak Elementary School in San Antonio, Texas. The Today Show featured this story last week about the student’s humanitarian effort to do something special for the children of Haiti. Incredibly, these kids (remember this is a group of “first graders”) raised over $9,000 to help the small victims of this earthquake shattered country.

For their remarkable work and unselfish hearts, they were selected over other competing schools, to travel to Orlando, Florida and visit the new Harry Potter Theme Park. When it was reported that one parent told their child not to be disappointed if their school did not win, that child responded by saying, “It was okay, because the children of Haiti already won!” Oh what we could learn from the mouth of babes!

Read more about this exciting story at: http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/local_first-grade_class_wins_extraordinary_contest_94485919.html

I hope everyone will smile at this story and yet, be inspired by having big hearts like these children and the children around us. Deciding to help someone or some cause does not have to be a national story, neither do you need a wad of money, but it will indeed make a tremendous difference in the lives you sincerely touch. Be inspired, and then become an inspiration!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

2010-06-20T13:12:00.000-04:00

To all of our Fathers, Sons, Brothers, Uncles, Grandfathers, Nephews, Men-in-laws and Friends, we want to say to you on this special, commemorative day, HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! Celebrate the specialness and importance of this day, every day! Father’s play such a vital role in our lives and it is so important to be the role models that would invoke others to live and make this world a better place. Thank you fathers for all you do to make a positive difference in so many lives.

What’s On Your Summer Reading List?

2010-06-20T11:39:00.000-04:00

Can you believe summer is here? Well you probably can since we've been having some serious record hot, scorching temperatures here in the South! Moreover, what's summer without a great glass of southern sweetened iced tea or lemonade, and some good reads to wet our literary appetite? Well, leave it to Oprah Winfrey to come up with her 2010 Summer Reading List. There may be some books listed that you read and probably some you intend to read, but there is a variety of genres to choose from. O’s Summer List includes:

Kings of the Earth
By Jon Clinch

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake
By Aimee Bender

Someone Knows My Name
By Lawrence Hill

Words That Matter
By The Oprah Magazine - HarperStudio

Both Ways Is the Only Way I Want It
By Maile Meloy

If I Loved You, I Would Tell You This
By Robin Black

My Name Is Mary Sutter
By Robin Oliveira

The Madonnas of Echo Park
By Brando Skyhorse

Parrot & Olivier in America
By Peter Carey

Dombey and Son
By Charles Dickens

Elizabeth Street
By Laurie Fabiano

The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott
By Kelly O'Connor McNees

The Hundred-Foot Journey
By Richard C. Morais

What Is Left the Daughter
By Howard Norman

Father of the Rain
By Lily King

The Passage
By Justin Cronin

American Music
By Jane Mendelsohn

The Summer We Read Gatsby
By Danielle Ganek

Someone Will Be with You Shortly: Notes from a Perfectly Imperfect Life
By Lisa Kogan

How Did You Get This Number
By Sloane Crosley

For more information and a brief description of these books, click on this link to learn more:
http://www.oprah.com/omagazine/Summer-Reading-List-Summer-Books/1

If you have any good reads that you would like to share with our audience, please include the book’s title and author’s full name. If you have a link to the book, feel free to include that too.

Good reading everyone!