100 Truths

Hey guys, i trust all is well. If not don't worry, weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning. There's always a light at the end of the tunnel,If you don't see one,make one. Keep that smile going.

OK...100 Truth!!

I actually saw this on Yeva's blog at +http://becomingyeva.blogspot.co.uk/ so i thought to give it a go too. 100!!!! I hope i don't regret this. Lol


Here goes....

And Nothing But the Truth.....maybe

1. Last drink: Water
2. Last phone call: Mother
3. Last text message: Someone who lights up my heart.
4. Last song you listened to:  Ogede by Mr Silva, Showa Shins and Starboy Willz

5.Last time you cried: Last Week

HAVE YOU EVER:
6. Dated someone twice: Yes (if you mean on and off)
7. Been cheated on: Yes 

8. Kissed someone: Yep
9. Lost someone special: Yes...a few good people to death

10.Been depressed: Yes (Last time i checked i'm human)

11.Been drunk and threw up: Nope, i just keep smiling like an idiot!!

LIST FOUR FAVORITE COLOURS:
12. White
13. Brown
14. Purple
15. Orange

HAVE YOU:
16. Made new friends:  Yes
17. Fallen out of love: Yes
18. Laughed until you cried: Oh Yea...All the damn time! 
19. Met someone who changed you: Nope(Too stubborn for that)
20. Found out who your true friends were: My support system is very much reliable and i'm thankful for that. Moreover my circle is small. No Wahala on that end
21. Found out someone was talking about you: Yep!!
22. Kissed anyone on your friends list: Yes
23. How many people on your friends list do you know in real life: 95%
25. Do you have any pets: Hmmm….No..i’ll have a gold fish one day though. 
26. Do you want to change your name: Are you kiddin me, I love my name.
27. What did you do for your last birthday:  Went to Dubai!!!! It was amazeballs. I strongly recommend it as a holiday destination

28. What time did you wake up today: 06:50...gotta find that money!

29.What were you doing at midnight last night: Watching Reed between the lines – Awesome show by the way. Check it out!
30.Name something you CANNOT wait for: Hmmm...having the first mini me…excited!!

31.Last time you saw your father:  Sunday (such a random.. lol)

32.What is one thing you wish you could change about your life: Being soo damn emotional & moody. Gosh!!

33. What are you listening to right now: Sex never felt better by TGT (Tank,Ginuwine and Tyrese)

34.Have you ever talked to a person named Tom: If you mean have a conversation,Yup….a work colleague way back

35.What’s getting on your nerves right now?: Getting my wayward emotions under control

36.Most visited webpage: Twitter
37.Current city: London Town baaaby!!

38.Nicknames: Lady D. Gaya (from mangaya my middle name) Dee. DorDor. Stevenses.
39.Relationship Status: Hahahaha….errmm...The weather is nice outside :)
40. Zodiac Sign: Cancerian
41. Male or female or transgender: Female 
42. Primary School:  Saints Joseph’s Primary
43. Middle School: Same as above
44. High school: International School

45. Hair color: Black
46. Long/medium/short: Medium but when I wash it…the shrinkage is too real!!  #NaturalHairProblems
47. Height: 5'7
48. Do you have a crush on someone: YES… (Don’t we all)
49: What do you like about yourself: I'm a silent fighter, i Fight my way through everything in life and i love that i'm comfortable in my skin and the person that i am.

50.Piercings: Nahh...well only my ears
51.Tattoos: Yup ..one but considering number 2
52.Righty or Lefty: Righty

FIRSTS:
53. First Surgery: None
54. First Piercing: Ears
55. First Best Friend: Hmmm…Never had one.
56. First Sport you joined: I don’t have any sport bones in my system…If Akra (African game) is a sport then there you go
57. First Pet: Must have been a dog….Oh I think a pigeon that flew and never came back…(I’m such a great carer!!)
58. First Vacation: To  the motherland Sierra Leone
59. First Concert: Never been…(How sad eh)
60. First Crush: Hahaha!! I won’t be naming him because he is not a crush anymore sooo... (pointless) Moving on

RIGHT NOW:
61.Eating: Croissant
62.Drinking: Red Bull
63.Already missing:  My Niece and nephew
64.I’m about to: Go on lunch...food time!
65.Listening to: The Raindrops (Yea summer is gone)
66.Thinking about: An interesting individual ;)
67.Waiting for: 6pm…Home time

YOUR FUTURE:
68.Want kids: Want kids...love kids...Yes!
69.Want to get married: A healthy relationship is more important to me, then Yes…marriage 

70.Careers in mind: Events management, among many others

WHICH IS BETTER WITH THE OPPOSITE SEX?
71. Lips or eyes: Eyes….(They are the window to the soul) ;)
72. Hugs or kisses: Hugs
73. Shorter or taller: Taller! Do you have to ask!?!
74. Older or Younger: Older (Well Seasoned) Lol!
75. Romantic or spontaneous: A bit of both
76. Nice stomach or nice arms: I do not mind..
77.Sensitive or loud: A mixture of both, too loud or too sensitive will drive me mad!
78.Hook-up or relationship: I am not 15, I do not do hook ups!

79.Trouble maker or hesitant: hmmm... trouble maker to keep me on my toes but not the kind to send me to an early grave. (Ain't nobody got time for that)

HAVE YOU EVER:
81.Drank hard liquor: Yes
82.Lost glasses/contacts: No (sunglasses yes)
83.Kissed on 1st date: Yes (How Naughty!)
84.Broken someone’s heart: Yes but he asked for it.
85.Had your own heartbroken: I always dodge the bullet mate…you have to be observant!

86.Been arrested: No, I ain't about that life!
87.Turned someone down: Yes…i use my no's and yeses wisely.
88.Cried when someone died: Yes... I am an emotional wreck you know. *Shakes Head*
89.Liked a friend that is of the same sex: NO.... Jesus didn't die for that.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN:
90. Yourself: Yes (Do I have a choice?!)
91. Miracles: Yes (My God is a God of miracles)
92. Love at first sight: Yes…as I said, One emotional ball
93. Heaven: Yes!
94. Santa Claus: I never had that luxury mate. Christmas was about the birth of Christ. Full stop!
95.Kissing on the first date: It depends…if the attraction is flying outta the window,who knows. Anything can happen. :)
96.Angels: hmmm…not entirely sure about this one.

ANSWER TRUTHFULLY:
97. Is there one person you want to be with right now?: Yes!!
98. Had more than one boyfriend/girlfriend at one time?: No Sir!
99. Wish you could change things in your past?: Hmmm I don’t believe in regrets but i believe a few things. I believe i don’t live there no more. I believe everything happens for a reason. I believe regrets are learning curves and i use them as a stepping stone. Life’s too short.
100. Are you posting this as 100 Truths?:  Yes!

Phew....we got there in the end folks!!!
Thanks for taking time out to read it all. It was fun doing it and if you ever want to do it please do and tag me so i can get to read yours.

At least y'all now know one little extra thing about me. :)



Till then...

Xoxo

The Notting Hill Carnival - Sierra Leoneans Representing!!

The Notting hill carnival is a very popular street event in London. The masses look forward to it and come out in numbers.

Two years ago I was forced by my Caribbean friend to have a taste of this diverse cultural event. I did and I have done so ever since except this year. The reason being is I felt old and outdated when my 13 year old cousin told me he was going...13!!! The boy I used to console with a lollipop saying I’ll be back soon is actually all grown up...grown up enough to go to such mighty street carnival....I can't deal!! (Consoles self) 

Don't get me wrong, this event entertains both the young and the old, black, white, purple and pink....it brings people together. You can say it’s infectious as well because after the first time, you start looking forward to the next, but I can also tell you it is not for the faint-hearted. This vibrant, energetic and colourful event which brings people of all races and cultural background together takes place annually on a weekend in August and people go out in masses to support. The Sunday is usually given to the kids to have fun and on Mondays the adults come out to play.

My sister and cousins went and they represented Sierra Leone, my very own home town and they represented well. They were not the only ones that represented which made me quite happy. Sierra Leone is a small country and the diaspora in London is not very large when compared to other countries. So seeing Sierra Leoneans coming out in their green, white and blue (Colours of our national flag) was everything. I even saw couple of pictures of our local masquerades from some of my friends who attended and this made me very happy.

My Sister,cousin and few friends representing the Lion Mountain.
Sierra Leone

You all know how I do when I get excited about something...I blog about it! :)

I decided to do a small research on the history of this event that millions of people look forward to each year. 

''The Notting Hill Carnival is the largest street festival in Europe and originated in 1964 as a way for Afro-Caribbean communities to celebrate their own cultures and traditions. Taking place every August Bank Holiday weekend in the streets of London W11, the Notting Hill Carnival is an amazing array of sounds, colourful sights and social solidarity.

At the roots of the Notting Hill Carnival are the Caribbean carnivals of the early 19th century – a particularly strong tradition in Trinidad – which were all about celebrating the abolition of slavery and the slave trade. The very first carnival was an attempt to showcase the steel band musicians who played in the Earls Court of London every Weekend. When the bands paraded through the streets of Notting Hill, they drew black residents out on to the streets, reminding them of the Caribbean homes they had left behind.

In the days of abolition, there was a strong element of parody in the songs and dances Trinidadians performed. Having been forbidden to hold festivals of their own during the period of slavery, they now took full advantage of the relative new freedoms the ending of slavery brought them. Dressing up in costumes that mimicked the European fashions of their former masters, even whitening their faces with flour or wearing white masks, they established a tradition that continues in the costume-making of today's Notting Hill Carnival. The proper name for this aspect of the Carnival is Mas (derived from Masquerade)''

Source: +http://www.thenottinghillcarnival.com

Well my friends that was a short history of the very popular Notting Hill Carnival. Hope it didn't bore you, I just thought since so many people live for that carnival, we might as well shed some light on its history. It is only fair.

The carnival normally kicks off from the early hours of the day. We normally get there for 12 noon and the mood is already set by then.  The vibes is lively and exuberant with blaring music, girls parading in the skimpiest outfits, lads in their baby Gap gears showing off their well-earned six packs, alcohol and street food everywhere. We just join in on the parade and make a day of it but not before having a builder’s breakfast. That is meant to lining the stomach against the excessive intake of alcohol to follow. Yes it is that serious!

As I said earlier this carnival is no ordinary carnival, people from all over the world are in attendance and it has almost become an ''all nations’ event'' compared to what it originally started as. This is a good thing, such a huge event must be used to bring people closer and not divide. For that reason being, I fully support this movement.

Even though the carnival have had its share of violence in the past, it’s getting better as the years go by as more and more polices are being deployed and I think people are getting wiser. This year’s carnival was relatively peaceful compared to others in the past. So that is another reason to support this movement.

There is never a dull moment at the carnival. The colourful and blinged up costumes of the dancers, the different genres of extremely loud music, the dancing troupers, both male and female flaunting their sexy bits (as if it's not hot enough in there already…phew) and the air that is ever so blessed with the mixed smell of different palatable cuisines from all over the world, especially the good ole jerk chicken....hmmm. Alongside all these happenings is the excess flow of alcohol and I mean excess! I am not complaining… I love my drinks.

Our Local Masquerade back home representing the motherland Sierra Leone at the carnival. My best bit must be the guy's trainers....very creative and unique!!

After all the enjoyment is the fight of the day. The fight to get home. Tube stations are normally jam-packed like tins of sardines and so are the buses. If you happen to go with friends, which is the case most of the time, just make sure y'all don't lose each other. If you do, then just hope your mobile phone is charged to find them but that again is not even guaranteed to be answered. Who hears or feels their phone ring or vibrate in such loud and chaotic atmosphere?! It's an absolute nightmare getting home. When you finally do you are fit for nothing but your bed.

Hence my reason for saying, the Notting Hill Carnival is not for the faint-hearted. Forget the journey home, or the strength needed to keep up with the dancers and various music boxes, dancing to Soca or bashment all day is not even a child's play, it actually drains you.

I hope I have managed to shed some light on the very famous Notting Hill Carnival. I might have enticed you to go the next time you're in London Town. If so here's a few tips:

1.  Go in large numbers if you can, the more the merrier and keep close at all times. (as hard as this sounds, it’s vital)
2. Dress as you wished to be approached, it's a carnival and all sorts of people are going to be there.
3. Drink responsibly (alcohol of course) and Eat responsibly (We don’t want no stomach upset from street food)
4. Wear comfortable attire & shoes....(I cannot stress this enough, it’s a long day, uncomfortable clothes are not the one)
5. Keep hydrated at all times. (Alcohol is not a substitute for water)
6. Know your limits (A&E is not your portion)
7. Keep safe at all times (No unnecessary arguments)
8. Avoid drunkards (that is if you're not one yourself already by then)
9. Do not wear any valuables (If you must, keep them safe)
10. Have fun and don’t take yourself seriously.

I can go on and on but I think ten will do for now and you will figure the rest on your own if you ever attend. That is always the best way to learn anyway. :)

Till then...

Xoxo

‘’Finders keepers, Losers Weepers’’

We all know London and its temperamental weather conditions. Since the rain destroyed my shoes… (RIP to my Pointed Gold and Black Shoes) My brother actually said to me who wears Gold shoes these days. I couldn't help but laughed out loud and told him I am special, that’s why. What else can I say… he will never understand. J

On my way home from work I decided to go to Westfield’s shopping center and get a replacement. (A girl gotta look good) As I got out of the train station I realized I needed the cash point. Walked to the cash point and waited in the queue but the lady in front of me was taking forever. Got me kinda irritated… can’t lie (Yea I need to work on my patience...hmmm)

Nevertheless, I waited my turn. As I was about to insert my bank card into the machine, I saw this pile of cash hanging from the cash dispenser. I was shocked. I was baffled. I stopped and scratched my head (I do that when I’m confused) and for a brief moment I was filled with confusion. I didn't know what to do. I looked around and no one was watching. I took the cash.

-The Golden Rule -

The urge to put it in my bag and continue on my way to the mall was immense. It was almost uncontrollable. I counted the cash and there in my hands was £70. This money was pulling me towards it like a magnet. I started sweating. Phew!

The lady who used the machine before I did must have left it there and walked away.  With the money in my hand, I continued to look at her as she walked away. I then snapped back to reality and try to put that woman in my position. I wouldn't want to lose £70 like that. I wouldn't want anyone to steal £70 from me. I asked myself if I would like someone to return my lost hard-earned cash to me and of course the answer was YES!

Without further thinking the phrase ‘’Do Unto Others As You Would Like Others To Do Unto You’’ spoke to me. I wasted no time in running after the lady and asked her if she just withdraw cash from the machine and she said yes.

Here's our little conversation below:

Me: Hiya, did you just withdraw cash from the cash machine?

Lady: Yes I did.

Me: How much was it?

Lady: Why are you asking me?  (with a stinky attitude enough to make me change my mind)

Me: Oh I was just returning your money which you left at the cash dispenser few minutes ago.

Lady: (eyes wide open she starred straight into my eyes with an automatic mood change) Oh it was £70, thank you so much, thank you so much….Thank you. God bless you…God Richly Bless you. (After few seconds I lost count of the thank yous and God bless yous)

Me: (Smiled with an inner satisfaction) Amen…amen (was all I could say really)

As I walked away with what was the best feeling in the world, I looked back and she was still in amazement….smiling and carefully tucking the cash into her handbag. I was really happy I had the decency and wisdom to return her money to her.

I could have walked away with it, spent it all in the mall and thought, yes I have been lucky today. But no, that was my way of blessing someone else’s life. The gratefulness in her voice was enough to tell me that she needed that money….maybe even more than I do. Besides it was her money. Not mine. It was only right to return it back to her.

I am not going to tell you that I didn't have the urge to take that money and run, because I did. I am no saint. The fact that no one saw me made it all the more harder an urge to resist. But still I rise! I am not ready yet for the riches of this world to put a dimple on my character. It’s never worth it in the end. If someone had asked me prior to this incidence if I would return money I found, my reply would have been a straight and quick no! After all, Finder’s keepers, loser’s weepers.

R E A L L Y?!?

At the end of the day you are not the person everyone sees daily. You are that person who you are behind closed doors....when the world is not looking!

I thank God for instilling the fear in me to not take what does not belongs to me, the fear of not intentionally hurting someone who I can potentially help. The fear of saying no to greed. I might have taken that money but my condition wouldn't have changed, maybe it would have for a brief moment then what? I know I wouldn't have had the satisfaction I have now. I know that for sure.

There is nothing like inner peace. It was a test, a test which I passed with flying colours. For that reason I am filled with happiness and contentment. 

Till then…

XOXO

Ain't Nobody Got Time For That

Moaning…Whining...Complaining…Grumbling. Well hello grumpy!

Attention seeking alert.

Attention seekers, they are everywhere. Arrggh ….can we get some air please?!

This is something that has been irking my soul a bit so I thought I should let out a little steam on it. Yea I got a little time for that!

I find this very common now especially with the way social media has given us all a voice. Some use it wisely and beneficially, yes and I say Bravo!!  While others just use, misuse and abuse the system in order to fulfill their attention seeking ways. I am often tempted to reply but then I’ll stop and think…no!  If I do reply, then I would be feeding your attention seeking hunger.... So I do a Ray Charles and keep it moving.

Ain't nobody got time for that!

I know the usual line ‘’ah it’s my Twitter/Facebook/Instagram and I will post what I like and  if you don’t like it then the delete button is your friend…yada, yada, yada….’’ Being a social media whore, (just have to admit) I know that line too well but please try to be considerate and self-develop.  I can delete you alright but you’ll still remain the attention seeker and what happened to self-respect? No one likes to be around a person who constantly craves attention. That is tiring. Do you know how annoying that is? It is like babysitting a nursery… (At least I can understand if I was actually babysitting kids)

It’s almost like a plaque now. People whine and moan and complain so much that it makes me think if they are ever happy with anything going on in their lives. Always craving for attention.  But just why?

Going the extremes with the aim of catching anyone’s attention and I mean anyone. Now that is low. How lost are you?!  Is it worth it? If you have to go that extreme to catch someone’s attention then I’ll just have to tell you to stop. It’s not worth it. People are naturally drawn to things and people that interest them. If they are not going hard for you then chill ma, Chill pa. Please.

You are in a circle of friends but you think your voice soothes the soul more than anyone’s voice so all you think we want to hear is your voice and opinion.  Why? Is it that you love your voice so much? It is meant to be a conversation, so my friend, allow others to talk and express themselves. If I want to hear just one voice I’ll tune in to a radio station. Everything ain't always about you!

If  Loneliness Is The Driving Force Behind Your Attention Seeking Ways...STOP NOW & TAKE HEED! 

Always screaming you’re bored. Now that is just annoying! No one’s got energy for all of that misbehavior. Child, find a purpose. Find what you love. Find a passion or a craft and concentrate on it. Discover a new world you never knew existed. Do something you've never done before and stop being an unnecessary burden to other people.

You become tormented and agitated that the girls or the guys at the party are not paying you any attention today so you start sulking. Accept that some days you are the pigeon and some days you are the statue. Get with the programme!

So you’re wearing Uncle Louis and Aunt Gucci today and no one seem to give two rats therefore you start throwing tantrums just so you can get some cheap attention. Get a life! Be creative. Go out and explore. Think out of the box. Just keep yourself busy as best as you can (don’t mean that devilish busy) but an idle mind is the devil’s workshop so get busy.  By the time you know it, you might have just found your talent, who knows you might find a new passion for life because most people who crave attention like that are merely living life. They are existing… existing for attention. Find a happy place and when you do stay there.

I for one, I am not easily bored. It takes a whole lot for me to be bored.  24 hours is in fact never enough for me. I think for the world, and you know what that means. My mind is always running a riot. Most times it doesn't even make sense but it does keep me occupied.

Do people care to use their brains anymore?

We all love the spotlight every now and again. We all love attention every now and again but when you start craving it like you need it for survival then you know you need therapy and rehab. Why do you want the spotlight on you all the time? Now that is boring and uninteresting. Who wants to know why you are always bored? No one!

Are you satisfied after telling the world how you don’t like your fat arms or how no one likes you? Do you get a feeling of self-fulfillment? I am sure you do but how long does it last for?  Why do you continue to flood my time line? If no one is reacting towards your attention seeking rants then clearly no one cares! Get real ma.

However this can be seen as a personality disorder. In some cases it becomes dangerous and life threatening to the point where people cut themselves up. This is serious and runs deep. The absence of self-love can cause one to resort to attention seeking; forever needing someone to tell you how beautiful you are…Validation! You don’t need that. A hug a day keeps negativity away. YES it is alright to hug yourself and pamper yourself and tell yourself you’re beautiful because you were made in the image of the almighty. God don’t create ugly…best believe!

You Are Special :)

My advice, get some help. Take time out. Avoid social media as best as you can because they aid in feeding this disorder. Know thyself! When you do, no one can tell you otherwise and you wouldn't spend time seeking anyone’s approval. Spend some quality time with yourself. Invest in yourself. Shower yourself with some self-loving. See how that helps.

No one is going to love you better than yourself. The earlier we all realize that the better.  The greatest love of all is that which you pour on yourself. You don’t need all that unnecessary attention you crave. You’re just perfect.

Social Media as addictive as it is can be a beast. It can easily swallow you up or be helpful servant that can teach you something along the way. Don’t allow it to be a beast in your life. Never allow to get to that point where you become a tool for social media.  Let it be the other way round. Use it as a tool and to your benefit too and while you are at it bless others with your presence. Don’t be that annoying person everyone avoids!

Ain't nobody got time for that!

Till then…

Xoxo

Music Of The Month

Ladies and Gents...

I know y'all have been great!

I have a new addiction (I might be late) but it’s too good not to share.

My love for music is just immeasurable; you might already know this if you have been following my blog updates.

‘’Write me a love song, send me a letter….tell me you love me’’

        My fav extract from Love Song~ Timi Dakolo

Wooooooiiii… it touched me!!

Well to start off the best thing that happened to me in this month of June so far was my subscription to Sky TV and I must say I am lurrving it. Imagine coming from Virgin Media which is a major reap off. Reap off because it’s expensive and no good value for money. The diverse number of channels I get on my Sky TV brings one big smile to my face. Too bad people are deprived of such due to the position of their houses…..Oh well. (I actually think they should get this sorted, they are losing customers)

Anyhooo….I am not a Sky rep, let me get on with what I have to tell y’all.

Normally while I’m in the kitchen or around the house doing chores, I like the blaring sound of music, I actually do love loud music because loud music is just life!! Turning my TV on (I think it was BET…Virgin Media don’t have that! :P )  I then went on to the kitchen to cook my dinner. Not too long, I heard this smooth modulated voice streaming all the way from the sitting room to the kitchen. I quickly wiped my hand and dashed into the sitting room.

Guess who was there breathing life through my TV? ….. Timi Dakolo!! Singing one of his hits ‘Love Song'. People, the song I fell in love with was Love Song!

Timi Dakolo

 Wait for it… I have never heard any of his music nor his name before but his music was speaking to me. I couldn't help but take a seat and get lost for a few minutes in such awesome talent.

Now this is what good music should do to you. Music must be so good that it draws you in, connects with you on another level and get you lost into it so much that you forget all your worries in the process. (Even if it’s for a swift second) The power of good music is tingling to the soul; it makes you crave for more and sends all your senses into rebellion.

This fine dark chocolate of an African, Timi Dakolo who has the voice of R. Kelly and strangely resembles Tinie Tempah in a very appealing way was born in Ghana but originally from Nigeria. He started singing at the tender age of 12.

Love Song By Timi Dakolo

In the video for ‘Love Song’ He wore a black leather jacket which was strategically left open to confuse the ladies, exposing all his glorious six pack (is it just me, it’s getting pretty hot in here…phew)  It’s all good, Timi can confuse us all he likes, we’re not complaining.. :) The sad news is ladies, he is off the market :(

He is indeed a good looking guy and this was definitely a bonus to the video which I absolutely loved. Timi Dakolo put so much emotion into this song that you can’t help but feel like falling in love all over again. He was touching a special place in my body with his voice, I won’t lie. A brilliant love song by a beautiful human…ahh my friends, it doesn't get better.

Love is such a strong emotion and this was beautifully conveyed through his song ‘Love Song’

Loved it, absolutely loved it! All I can tell you now is that song is on constant repeat till further notice.

Music too sweet!

Hey what are you waiting for? …hit YouTube up and get addicted like me, I’m sure you’ll like it (I've got good taste, you see ;) hehehe)

Till then

Xoxo

I Do Not Define Myself By How Many Roadblocks Have Appeared In My Path..... Embracing Your Struggles

Trust your God! 

 Embrace your struggles. 

He didn't bring you this far to leave you in the desert.

This morning this is what was placed in my heart by God I believe. It just came to me and I thought to share. It might help someone, somewhere trying to figure out this path we are all treading on called life.

We are all going through different struggles in our lives. We are all trying to figure this thing called life. Sometimes it might all feel overwhelming and beyond our control but that’s where the Master steps in and says, ‘’be still and know that I am God’’. That is all good when the Lord steps to our rescue but do you believe in him? Do you trust him to do what’s right by you? Are you patient enough to wait upon Him?

Sometimes trusting God is the hardest thing for us to do. But we are so quick to put our trust in man and other worldly things which are temporarily beneficial to us. We walk into a shop and the juice says Organic. We waste no time in buying that juice, we don’t even question if it’s true or not. Why... because we believe and trust them. Why can’t you give that same level of trust if not more to the one who created you? Why is it so hard?

Time and age has taught me to put my all in God because everything else fades…but his love. When the tough gets going and when life shows you its true colours….mate you have no choice but to go on bended knees and call upon his name. But you know what they say; if you haven’t been there you wouldn't really know. You have to have experienced LIFE before you can actually live life.

I can go on and on about my struggles but that would bore you and I don’t want to do that. However through all your struggles remember to learn the lessons life is teaching you. That way you have fewer chances of repeating it again and more importantly inspiring and motivating another life. Don’t underestimate the power of the lesson life teaches us. Life is the greatest teacher on earth. If you see any success story ask for the story behind it and that story will not consist of sunny days and rosy mornings. It is a story of failures upon failures that was used as a stepping stone to gain that success story. It will consist of blood, sweat and tears. Remember, Storms come to teach us how to ride the waves perfectly.

Your past is your past, yes...gone and the hard truth is you can’t erase any part of it. You can go get the strongest bleach available and try to make it look good but the unfortunate part is when the bleach will fail. It won’t work. Stop living in your past and start paving way for the future.

Life can really get rough sometimes so much that moving on is the hardest thing to do. Sometimes you just don’t know where to start and other times you wished you had never experienced the past. Other times we wish we can go back and do things differently. We become bitter and the will to move on is now deemed impossible.

We then start to question everything we once believe in and everything we once trusted. We start to ask God why. See, when things start to slide downhill we tend to ask God questions. When what we should have done in the first place is to put every single one of our burdens, decisions and undertakings before him in prayers. He knows best as much as we might tend to think we know it all with all our college and university degrees and titles. My friend, till life teaches you, you know nothing!

I came across this poem below and it actually inspired this post. It just touched a part of me this morning. I couldn't let it fly by without me sharing. You know what they say, sharing is caring …..Eat, digest, fill up your soul and share so others can partake too.

You Are Not Your Struggles....
You Are That Which Has Emerged From The Fire!

My favourite part of the whole poem is the end where it says ‘I am that which has emerged from the fire’’. That is one powerful statement. Anything that has been through hell and back, comes out more beautiful, stronger and better. That is what you are my friend.
Don't be scare of getting burnt, you won't because God's got this. Oh yes he does!

You are not your failures, you are not your struggles, you are not your mishaps, and you are not your scars. You are that which has emerged from the fire and that fire is all the bad days you've been through, that God has pulled you through from. It is the past which thinking about alone brings chills to your spines. The fire is those days when you are so close to throwing the towel in, those days when the sun refuses to shine. The fire is those nights that were filled with tears and worries, those nights that you feel like you’re all alone. The fire is that which has made you who you are today. Looking back, the Lord has given you a reason to smile. Even if it’s a tiny weeny reason.

You can hustle as hard as you like, work your butt off to make that money but first God has to bless your hustle. If God is not in that hustle it would be fruitless. Above all, don’t forget to pray. Prayer is the most important conversation of the day. I’m not going to tell you I pray every day because I don’t but whenever I have that second I just have a word or two with the Lord. He deserves it. It’s the least we can do. Prayer is a powerful weapon and can counteract any form of weapon going against God’s will for your life. Yes it’s that powerful.

Don’t keep God out of your business. You just need to keep people out of your business. Make him the centre and in due time he will perfect all things that which concerneth you. His timing might be a bit off in your eyes but he is always on time and always there when you call.

I hope this have encouraged someone today in some way and keep holding on….there is a light at the end of the tunnel and if you can’t see a light create your own light and keep pushing. If you’re not seeing what you’re waiting for, go out and find it and don’t allow the past to hold you down. It’s done its job of teaching you life lessons, cut the ties and apply the principles to your future.

As hard as life may get, don't give up. Your next miracle or breakthrough might be just one more push away. Keep going. No one remembers the one who gave up..never. Everyone remembers the person who overcome life's trials and tribulation. One example of such would be Michael Jordan. In one of his famous quotes he said:
''I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.''
Imagine if he gave up..

Be unfaithful to your fears and Cheat on them. Break up with all doubts doing the azonto in your head. Start making engagement plans with your faith and waste no time matching up the aisle to your dreams wearing that white gown or that bespoke suit. Cut all ties that don’t add value to your life…they are nothing but excess baggage!


Stay blessed, keep smiling and allow God to be the centre even in the midst of your struggles.


''If you're trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I've had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.'' 
~ Michael Jordan



Till then...

Xoxo

Stick and Stones….

The Mighty Power Of Words!

Remember the old adage …….'Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never harm me'.

Sticks and stones will break my bones …yes it will break you surely, but words will never harm me…No it won’t darling, but best believe it will damage you and leave you feeling like a worthless tissue paper. Now that's the power of words. What would you prefer...a good beating or a good tell off? 

Don't underestimate it

Physically, mentally, psychologically and emotionally, words are way more damaging than sticks and stones. Basically, if someone opens their mouth on you…hmmm and I mean OPEN…you will wish a fire wood was thrown at you instead.

That adage is a whole lot of lie…yea I said it! (Shoot me) But then again I guess some people see it easier to shake off an insult than heal wounds. What they don’t know is words leave an everlasting stigma which is sometimes unknown to us until later in the future.

When I was young, naive and clueless, I used this adage a lot. It was evident I didn't know better. It made me feel tough and brave and fearless.  But as I grew up, I gradually realised that in fact the most powerful tool ever available to man is the tongue.

The Tongue is indeed very powerful– The question is, are you going to use it to break or to make?

Every so often we underestimate the power of words that comes out of our mouth. We really don’t know its value and capability to make or break someone or a situation.

With few kind and considerate words, you can save someone from committing suicide and with few hateful and spiteful words you can be the cause of someone’s death. Believe it or not, it is possible. 

The tongue is a very small organ which is capable of bringing a man as tall as 6ft to the ground with ease. Words have power and must not be taken lightly. You really don’t want to use your tongue to be the cause of someone’s misery. Our prime purpose in life is to help each other, if you can’t help them at least don’t hurt them. My Aunt once said to me; if you don’t have anything good to say then don’t say anything at all. You have to know when to open your mouth and when to keep it shut….Now that is what my granny would describe as wisdom.

Some people take absolute pleasure in being someone’s misery. Are you that type of person? But why? Does your next meal depend on it? That Cruella De Vil movement needs to stop!  Watch what you say and think before you utter anything. No one is paying you to talk and I am sure your mouth won’t stink from few moments of thoughtful silence. If we knew how many times our words were misinterpreted, there would be much more silence in the world.

You want to drop a criticism, do it with caution and wisdom. Send your message across but don’t stamp all over the person. Always watch your tongue because you don’t want to leave someone more distressed and broken than when you first met them. If you’re not going to make a positive impact on someone’s life then I think it’s best to....leaave it yehhh!!

When you’re full of anger, be extra careful with your words. Surely you don’t have time to think when you’re blazing, but when has blazing ever solved any problems? Stop, Put that fire out, calm down, and think before you utter something you’ll regret. Words once said can’t be undone, no matter how many sincere apologies offered. The scars still remain. Scars that won’t heal easily.

If you can’t lift someone up with your tongue then you have no business pulling anyone down. You’re upset and things aren't going your way so you….shout, scream and set someone’s soul on fire with your hurtful words. After your rampage all of a sudden you feel good. You feel satisfied. You feel like a champ….yea! You feel like the King of the jungle Yea!   * Breaths down & Beats Chest*

OK King  Kong!  Now what? (My friend you have a problem. Get it together)

Well I've got news for you, you ain't a champ, you’re the biggest coward! You ain't no King Kong you’re just a tiny miserable mosquito who seizes every opportunity to torment people’s lives. That satisfaction you’re feeling is not really a sense of satisfaction, that is you using someone else to make you feel good about yourself and look better. That my dear is you being very insecure and displaying the highest level of low self-esteem.

More importantly, that is bullying, and just in case you are wondering bullying is not just physical. Some of us our words are greater bullies than our physical self. Your mood must never dictate your manners. Sort it out before it eats you out. Remember whatever you can’t control, controls you. Sometimes it’s not so much what we say; it’s more to do with how we say it. Child, Watch ya tongue.

Below is a short clip on the power of words. 

An awesome video which emphasizes the point made above:

                                    It's not so much what you say but how you say it. 

It takes one swift moment to destroy someone’s confidence with your words which took them years to build. Your unbridled tongue can destroy the strongest person. Your loose tongue can tarnish one's character to an unbuildable level. Your destructive tongue can whip a man down to tears. Your insensitive tongue can take away someone’s pride. STOP and THINK before you speak. Don’t let your mouth run faster than your brain can think, If it does then you my friend have got a big problem.

Moaning and complaining, you are never satisfied or almost impossible to satisfy so therefore you spread your negative energy, bringing everyone to your level. Party pooper!! Nothing or no one is ever good enough for you. Hold up; is your life really that sad?! Use your tongue to praise and compliment, it’s refreshing. Try it sometime.

Insults and gossiping… Help us baby Jesus!! G O S S I P I N G! Hmmm if you meet some people you would think our purpose on earth was to gossip and raining abuses. All they give out is bad vibes...left right and centre. They will spare no expense in running up the phone bill just to spread rumours. Is your life that short of amusement?! If you know the dent gossiping leaves on one’s character then you will rethink whenever you want to spread rumours. If it’s not yours to share don’t share! If you must share anything, share positivity.

Haven’t you heard?  ’’What you say of sally says more of Susie than of sally’’ In other words be careful what you say about other people, you might be revealing a bit of yourself there.

The aim of our lord Jesus Christ when he decided to give us tongues was to bless, heal and pick up others when they’re down. The bible doesn't condone reckless behaviour. Matthew Chapter 12 verse 36 states:  ’’I tell you, on the Day of Judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.’’

Two eyes, two ears and one Mouth, only one mouth….Now let's take a moment and thank God that we only have one mouth. That’s a blessing right there. God knew what he was doing when he created mankind because Sometimes I can’t help but wonder what would have happened if we all had two mouths. Whenever you have the urge to misbehave, just think ….two eyes, two ears and one mouth. Let that be your guide.

Words have so much effect on us and most of the time we don’t have a clue. A prime example would be a shop with a big bright sales card stating over 50% off. The moment you see that you get excited because we all love free stuff.  

The Power Of Words

You enter the shop, spend money you don’t have and leave with bags full of items you don’t even need. You buy because you saw the word sale in bright red and more so for over 50% off. Most times the discount on the items is not even over 50% off, however the choice of words lured you in and you didn't bother checking. The Power of words.

If you are still in doubt of the power of words, ask the politicians. They use the right words at the right time to get what they want. When a new government is about to take office, the people expect change so they preach change and what they deliver don't matter. The talk is pretty much what they do best. The people believe and cast their votes. How many of them deliver what they preach? The power of words!

In relationships, we use words like I love you. I hate you. People don’t forget these words. These are words people keep close to their hearts. All the more reason why we must think before we speak. If you don’t mean it, don’t say it. Hearts are often broken; trust lost and lives are never the same again. Don’t be the one responsible.The power of words.

One powerful line which perfectly illustrates the power of words for me is ’’I have a dream’’ by Martin Luther King JR. This is a short line spoken by a powerful activist. This line commands a movement, it empowers and encourages growth.  Even if you’re not a dreamer it makes you want to become one. This line persuades, inspires and breaks down walls. It makes you want to do more. That is how powerful words are. He could have chosen to say something negative but he spoke wisdom and positivity. Up to this day ‘’I have a dream’’ lives on. Choose your words carefully you never know who you might inspire.

Be warned!

Do you speak fine, kind, loving and positive words into your life every day? Do you ever remember to bless someone other than yourself? The bible says in Proverbs, Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. 

Parents….Do you speak life and positivity into your children's  lives? Use the power of words to your advantage and be a blessing. Select the words you use as you select the finest food from a fine menu. If need be, change your regular vocabulary and be a better person.

We are all humans and we fall short. No one is perfect. All we have to do is try to bridle our tongues and be a better person. As they say, practice makes perfect. One day you will look back and say Yes I am the master of my tongue. Let your tongue be your best asset and take responsibility for what comes out of your mouth. Not everything that comes into your mind must come out of your mouth. Learn to think.

Howeverrrrr, No one said don’t talk. Your voice is your power, so by all means use it and use with wisdom. A wise man fills his brain before he empties his mouth.

Your mouth is a fountain, you are either sprinkling living water or contaminated water. Whenever you speak you breathe life into words. 

What would you be bringing to life when you speak?  Speak something today that changes someone's tomorrow.

Till then …xoxo