YOU ARE WORTH IT!

I have often asked the questions who am I and why am I here. What is my purpose? What is my gift?  I have stunned myself to publicly dance without rhythm, to sing without melody, and strive to explore my hidden talents.  I found joy in this exploration of myself and worked hard to be the best in areas that were not of my gifting in spite of my critics.

One thing that I have done consistently and naturally is giving and showing love to even the unloveable.  You know, the ones when you see them coming you want to walk the other way.  I try to look at people and see the face of the child masked by layers of pain to find the compassion to accept them and to heal them with love, kindness, encouraging insights and revelations.  I named this page, “The Power of The Pen” and described myself as a writer “marked by love,” because that is who I am.  I believe there is transforming power in the written word.  This is my gift.

I once had a person say to me they didn’t trust me because I smiled all the time.  She couldn’t understand that I had made a choice to be happy and to love everyone (even her in spite of her convictions).  This was my joy and I was willing to extend it to all whom I encountered.  To love is my choice.

Love doesn’t mean that one should shrink back so that that others can be enlarged, but to go boldly before men and proclaim this message that God is love and what that means.  If we can walk in that love we teach others to shine in their higher selves and release their pain.  It is healthy for your soul to know and show that forgiveness is the key to being free.  Being able to forgive the past, yourself and those who have hurt or persecuted you enables you to move forward to live an abundant life in peace and joy because you are worth it.

Marianne Williamson states it so clearly,

Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.

I have learned that self-love requires humility and wisdom to accept the things that cannot be changed, courage to change the things that you can and the wisdom to know the difference.  Everyone hurts and love is the only cure for the pain.  We can’t change people, but we can plant the seeds and allow our Creator to grow them.

Isn’t it  interesting that the two Presidential candidates are polar opposites?  One promoting hate-filled messages and divisiveness and the other promoting love and unity.  Each candidate has their own flaws, but don’t we all.  I choose love, because we are worth it, won’t you?

Enjoy the video Worth performed by Anthony Brown & Group Therapy.  Be inspired!

Please subscribe to and share this page with anyone who you believe is worth it.  Thank you!

KNOW YOUR WORTH!

It is who we are, not what we have that enriches us.

– Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery

Knowing your worth is vital to your success. Otherwise, in whatever you endeavor to do, others will dictate your value. Your time, talent and resources come with a price. How you determine that value lies in discovering who you are, your purpose and why what you do is important to others. Taking guided steps that lead to your full potential will secure your success as an individual and in business.

What do you do after you’ve spent years on a job giving the best you have and suddenly your skills, loyalty and dedication are devalued by your employer? I have heard numerous stories where one has suffered in their position after providing excellent service for many years. Employers have taken the route of demeaning an employee’s character and performance before severing their relationship, leaving one second-guessing their abilities and emotionally distraught. Business as usual can be ruthless and devoid of empathy for who you are, your time, talent and contributions to their success.

Carol, a dedicated and loyal administrator in education, spent 22 productive years in her profession when the tables turned. Suddenly, she was being depicted as incompetent and constantly harassed on minor issues. The devaluing of her skills had made her insecure and uncertain about her future. She decided that she could no longer take the abuse and accepted a package that fell short of her future needs. Now what does she do? What are her options as she approaches middle age? How does she move forward in a marketplace where the focus is on recruiting young talent?

I worked for a firm for 20 years and was once considered the best thing since sliced bread, and things changed, I became a target. My contributions were devalued leaving me frustrated, humiliated and fragile.  When a package deal was presented to me I couldn’t wait to take the money and run. For my sanity, I had to take a leap of faith.

My saving grace was my pursuit of a college degree, and the care of Dr. Todd Sinett and Biofeedback specialist, Michael Lodish, MA, all of which helped balanced the trauma associated with the assault on my character, abilities and reputation. Six months later, I had graduated and was faced with the big questions, where do I go from here? What is my purpose?  How do I redefine myself?

At this pivotal moment, I realized that the marketplace had changed since I last interviewed for a job. The doors weren’t swinging open for me the way they did during my prime. What was my competitive edge in this new age and generation of competitors? I took on a project as a social media coordinator and some freelance writing assignments.  As a freelance writer, not knowing the value of my time, talent and resources had left me open to selling myself short.

A good friend of mine Warren Winston had undergone a similar experience. He enjoyed a successful career at a Fortune 500 Company, but he became a target for having a bible on his desk, was undermined by a hostile director and let go. However, he moved forward with his dignity in tact because he knew who he was, what he had to offer and why what he had is important to others.

Because he was grounded in the knowledge of his identity, Warren sought to reinvent himself by wisely consulting with his Creator for his next steps. He found himself employed in a position in which he had authority over his prior employer. Yes, he had his day, but he desired something more. He was led to invest his time in people, teaching and mentoring them on the principles of success. He equipped himself with the tools he needed at the Dale Carnegie Institute and under John Maxwell’s tutelage. He has since launched five successful businesses. Knowing your worth is power!

Now, Warren coaches Fortune 500 companies and mentors individuals, showing them how to increase their bottom line and improve productivity by following simple principles for wealth, leadership and life. Recently, he began sharing with me his “Six Step Profit System.” He helped me to understand the power of knowing who I am, the value of what I do and why it is important to others, which has given me the confidence to move forward in life, to develop sustainable relationships and create a plan for my future.

Whether you are a freelance writer, CEO or a Hollywood movie star, once you understand these principles you will never again settle for less. It has not been easy starting over from scratch, but I’ve been blessed to have Warren’s guidance in discovering my identity in the marketplace and how to maximize and quantify the value of my time, talent and resources.  As I focus on the steps to reaching my true potential I am certain that I will have a successful career as a writer.

If you are interested in learning a higher way of being in your personal life or business, Warren Winston’s teaching will show you the who, why and way to fulfill your vision and increase your profits. Find out more about Warren Winston’s coaching, mentoring programs and seminars at www.warrenwinston.com.

I don’t know what the future holds, but I know who holds my future. -Unknown

a Literary High-Wire Act

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE?

“In a world filled with hate, we must still dare to hope. In a world filled with anger, we must still dare to comfort. In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream. And in a world filled with distrust, we must still dare to believe.” Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson knew where his power came from. He believed with all of his heart that he was an instrument in God’s hands and his talent was a gift. Love was the “juice and energy that motivated his music, his dancing, and everything.” He became one of the greatest entertainers of all times.  

Beyonce Knowles’ father believed that she had the potential to be a superstar. He gave up his career to ensure her success. She believed in her dreams. Have you seen her life? #BeyGood (see link above).

In Tyler Perry’s video message, “How to Be Successful” he shares that the grace of God brought him success because he would not stop believing. His advice on being successful is “Do not stop believing. When something is for you there is a feeling deep down inside of you that will not allow you to let it go. Anything you want is possible.” Tyler encourages that “no matter what people say, know beyond knowing your truth.” If you’re an eagle your instinct is to fly. The chickens you’ve been hanging around with will tell you that you can’t, but deep inside you know that you can. Follow your instincts and fly.

One day I was talking to an acquaintance about Yachts and Wealth-TV (“AWETv”), and how the shows stimulated my vision and informed me on the finer things in life.  He flatly replied, “I don’t like looking at that junk because I know that I will never have any of those things.” I couldn’t believe my ears. There was nothing that I could say to change his mind. He was stuck and had slammed the door to new possibilities. Silently I agreed that he never would, because that was his belief.

In an article written by John H. Sklare, Ed.D, “Belief Systems and Awareness,” he explains that,

“A belief is something you hold onto because you KNOW it is true.  There is a fundamental difference between a thought and a belief. Behind every thought lies the hidden program of belief. For example, if you don’t believe you can succeed at lifestyle change, you most likely won’t!

The truth is, if you don’t believe you can succeed, the battle is already lost. There is nothing more motivating or destructive than the power of belief. It can be your best friend or your worst enemy. The more aware you are of your underlying belief systems, however, the more powerful you become. And awareness is the key to creating that change.”

I believe that God’s will for my life is that I prosper in all things and be in good health. I am a writer. I am blessed to be a blessing to others. This is my time to shine, and I believe that it’s your time too.  Go get it!

Now, tell me, what do you believe?

7 Simple Steps to Being Happy

Happiness is defined as a mental or emotional state of well being characterized by positive or pleasant emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy. My mother calls me her happy child. No matter what’s going on I choose to see light in every situation. This is not to say that I’ve never felt the pangs of emotional distress. I know my joy is my strength.

You can choose to be miserable or content in whatever situation you’re in. The latter will cause you to rise above any challenge and open your mind to new possibilities. Don’t be bitter. Be happy!

Below are 7 steps to living a happier and healthier life:

1. KNOW WHO YOU ARE. You are not a mistake. The Creator created you with love for a purpose.  Embrace this truth.

2. KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE. The Apostle Paul, while imprisoned on the isle of Patmos, wrote: “I know how to live in poverty or prosperity. No matter what the situation, I’ve learned the secret of how to live and be content.” Philippians 4:12

3. LEARN THE ART OF GRATITUDE. Everyday that you live is a day to give thanks. Recognize the blessing in everything. If you can’t see it, look for it.

4. WHAT ARE YOU THINKING? Choose to meditate on thoughts that empower you. “Fix your mind on things that are true, noble, right, pure and lovely. If anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Philippians 4:6

5. MEDITATE. Be still and let go. Holding on to your past hurts and worrying about tomorrow adds nothing to your life. Russell Simmons states in his book Success Through Stillness: Meditation Made Simple: “You can decide that no matter what is happening around you, the sun will always be shining in your world. The external world doesn’t make that choice. You do.”

6. SMILE and the world will smile with you. Share the love.

7. JUST BE!  You are more than enough and equipped for every good deed. Give it all you got!

Happiness generates good energy that is contagious. It’s not hard. Live in the moment with joy and gratitude. It’s a choice. Clap along if you believe happiness is the truth.

 

 

Will Smith

I am a strong believer that no matter how hard the challenge, if you want to reach higher plateaus, never give up.

THE EDITOR'S JOURNAL

Hey y’all! In my career I’ve met a lot of achievers, both famous and not so famous and I loved collecting their stories. One thing they all had in common was an absolute blind refusal to give up when the load became too heavy.
The ability to pick oneself off the ground…(yet again!) and dust off the seat of our pants is in all of us. If you are experiencing tough times this little series of stories is for you. For some folk, who seem to have been handed it all on a plate, their stories will surprise you!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

IS? :  A rapper and actor

SAID? :  ‘Make a choice. Decide. Decide what it’s gonna be, who you’re gonna be, how you’re gonna do it’

Will Smith is riding high as one of the most popular and highest paid Hollywood…

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Reaching Higher Plateaus

This Far by Faith

“Everything and everyone that is available in the place you are in right now has something to teach you or give to you.” –Iyanla Vanzant

This morning I woke up reflecting on the last three years of my journey at Full Sail University, which soon will be coming to an end.  In June I will emerge with a Bachelors of Fine Arts for Creative Writing in Entertainment in hand.  Not bad for a sister girl who hasn’t been to school since Brooke Shields starred in Pretty Baby.

In the process of selecting pieces for my digital portfolio, I reviewed my very first project as a student, Who Has Gone Before You.  I created a Keynote presentation about my industry heroes Tyler Perry and Michael Jackson, whose journeys epitomizes their love and faith to deliver their message, and which had phenomenally propelled their careers.  Their lives are testaments to the power that rests, rules and abides in us all.

Did you know that whenever Michael wanted to write something great, he prayed?  When Tyler failed at his endeavors he did not stop believing; he talked to God.  The rest is history.  Michael knew what he wanted to be.  Tyler had an epiphany.  Enjoy the video and be inspired.

As I begin the next chapter of my life, leaving behind the familiar and forging ahead into new possibilities,  it’s a little unsettling, but being driven by  love, faith and determination I fearlessly press forward and embrace the unknown.  I do know for sure that the Most High has armed me with love, faith and creativity, and He is guiding my steps.  I’m not exactly sure where I’m going, but I know it’s going to be good and I trust Him.

Michael Jackson and Tyler Perry continue to inspire  with their words, creations and journey.   Their messages are purely based on the principles of love and faith.  Thanks to all who have gone before us, and who seek to encourage and inspire others to live with purpose and to reach higher plateaus.  I pray that the Lord will take my life and do something with it, that He may be glorified and others will be blessed.   

Feel free to comment and/or share whom your heroes are and how they have inspired you.

Love & Favor,

Angela

Love On the Red Carpet

This is one of the first stories that I wrote as a Freshman at Full Sail University for my Visual Thinking and Writing Course.  Don’t expect perfection, but enjoy a glimpse of my love story. Dreams  really do come true!

LET IT GO

“He did that to you,” as if he were surprised. “My brother’s a beast. You’re too beautiful for this!”
She nodded her head in agreement peering through her bruised eye. “He’ll change,” she mumbled from her busted lips.”

“What!”

“I’m trying. I got to keep the family together.”

“You trying? He ain’t! Listen little gal, ain’t nothing you can do to change a man. You ain’t Gawd! Lawd knows you’ll die trying. Only God can change people.”

“Here try this. It’ll make you feel much better,” he said.

He held the flame to the pipe while she inhaled deeply. Flashing warning lights reflected brightly in her minds eyes. She could hear the words, POISON, POISON, POISON, screaming in her ears. The words formed in the cloud of putrid smoke. Poison! She inhaled again. That voice only she could hear said, “Let it go,” as she drifted away.

Marked By Love

Every cloud has a silver lining. I have been inspired by my friend, motivational speaker, Warren Winston and Oprah’s Ambassador of Hope, Marala Scott to tell my story to help and heal others.  Through many struggles I’ve always been lifted to continue walking in joy and peace with love in my heart.  I remember being angry with God while struggling through an abusive relationship. I told him that I had done everything that he had asked loved everyone unconditionally, guarded my eyes and ears, prayed without ceasing, and let him fight every battle, but I couldn’t see the blessings. I wondered if it was all in vain.  Where was my love? I broke down. The tears of my soul nearly drowned me.  Then a wave of peace and stillness permeated my being. I heard a voice within say would you leave all of this behind and follow me. I said, “Yes. Wherever you lead me will be far better than where I am now.”  I packed my box, forgave my past, and never looked back.  I had been marked by love.Edit