Now What

You say in one interview you don't think you will stay single for life.

In another you think you will be single because if you married you think your wife would leave you because of your passion for your work.

What the heck is going on.

Either you are committed to the relationship or you are not. Either you are consistently walking the path of getting married or you are not. Make up your mind.

I would think that we can work together. Your goals and mission is my mission too. Are we not united. Are we not together working towards a common and unified cause. Do you think I am going to be off working somewhere else? Of course not. How could I? What are you thinking? Are you at all thinking about the possibility of us being together or have you just given up on it and decided that the single life is best for you?I would think you would want a woman to stand with you on your journey. Someone to enjoy some of the later years with and to be a partner with. That doesn't mean you lose out on your goals and mission, it may keep you focused and encouraged. I don't know you say one thing and then another. I need you, then its I can do it by myself. What is it really. Today its one thing tomorrow its another. Are you sincere, and if so, what is it that you are really sincere about. Do you really believe that you have to chose between a wife and a career? I hate that you feel you have to make that choice. Why cant you have both. Why cant you have a wife and a career. Why cant you chose both.

Prayer Vigil

 

Good Morning

 

Good Morning Lord. I am so thankful for today. Thank you for waking me up today and for starting me on my way. My way is your way Lord. God is always full of surprises. We can plan one thing but He's working on another. Never let me feel secure to know your plan. You are an awesome God and I know that you love doing things fresh and new. Nothing about you is stale and packaged. Show your authority and your love. Be the teacher today to lead us in our prayer vigil. Lead us to victory today. Let no come out of our mouths that can harm or destroy. Let our faith come through. Show us your glory Lord. Let us be fishers of men and convert more towards our cause. Let our light shine and our courage be strong. Allow us to minister to others today and be helpers with strength and radical power. I pray for us even though I will not be there in person but in spirit. I pray for us. Together. Fighting for one cause. Have a blessed day today and be a blessing to someone special.

Hi

Hi

How was your day today?

I heard that another child was shot in Evanston.

The young girl who was shot earlier this week was from the same school we had our training at last week.

This has gone beyond the ridiculous. Things must change.

I was talking to my brother about the fact that we have targeted Chuck's Gun Shop and found out from him that about five years ago Mayor Daley did a 60 minutes piece and pointed out that the majority of guns involved in violent crimes were traced back to that gun shop. The fact that guns are not able to be traced anymore is crazy. I'm sure  that gun shop has not reduced his trafficking of guns. The question is less of the fact that its legal and more on the moral side of how can you continue to sell to people that you know are turning around and making sure they get in the hands of gangs and young people.

I have been trying to explain gun laws that I don't even truly understand. I see that we are asking for background checks to mandatory. Am I to believe that there are no background checks now? What do they ask for now, a driver's license and FOI card is my understanding. Anyone can get an FOI card. How lax ar the gun laws and why, why, why. Don't we care about people?

Where are there rest of the churches? Why aren't their more people than just the Faith Community? Don't they care? We have got to come together on this issue. As we can see, guns are all over the place and in more hands than we what to think about. Maybe that's the problem too. We don't want to think about it. We have become desensitize to the problems. Until it reaches home with us where one of our loved ones has be murdered.

I have to go now. I'm babysitting again and he just woke up.

 

Good morning

good Morning Lord. And it begins. The race is on to see how long it will take to get to the 20th. Countdown begins, minds are alert, thoughts are focused on the end product. Let the show begin. I have to encourage myself today. The children come today. The planning and the rest of the stuff gets put to the test. Did we do it right? Do we have a good bunch of children. Are we prepared? How much longer is this going to go on? What was I thinking? The anticipation and waiting are over. Today is the day. Stay focused and alert.  This is the start of something new. New school, which is nice. New children, who are supposed to be the best of the best to some extent. New people, we will see how they and myself work under stress. This may be a temptation tool. Using all the glitz and glamour (yes,  even teaching can have some perks, few and far between) This summer program does spoil us. Breakfast and lunch everyday. Four people to a class room. Supplies, supplies, supplies. This is how teaching should be. Stay focused and know that this is only temporary. Remind myself of the almost two hour drive each way. That'll bust my bubble instantly. Have to get ready to leave.

We are family. We do have to hold each other accountable and the most important thing is to remember that we really and truly do need each other. We need each other in the very basic of needs. The need for security, for belonging, for love and comfort, for sharing and growth. For love. We need each other. Be blessed today and be a true blessing to someone special. I love you.

Good Morning

 

Good Morning, Good Morning, Good Morning. Good Morning Lord. Thank you for another day. Its a beautiful wonderful glorious day. I havent even stepped out of my house but I declare it to be one. I dont know what the day will bring but I do know that I have to get my priorities straight. My mind must be renewed and my attitude must be uplifting. I know that I am not as focused as I could be. I want God to replace old thoughts and patterns with the plans and thoughts that He has for me. I pray that God will show the priorities that He has for me and the help me to live those priorities instead of my agenda.  My agenda is so messed up, I dont even know what it is sometimes, I know one thing I need to get ready so I am closing now and look forward to seeing you this evening. I know one thing. I will be spending a large amount of my time on the road today. Atleast five hours total by the time I am home again for good. What's up with that? Priorities. 

Good Morning

Good Morning Lord. I'm ready for another week. Let's take this one day at a time. These are the times that try men's soul. The goal is always to remember that Satan is defeated. Satan is defeated. Satan you and all your principalities, powers, and master spirits who rule the darkness, and spiritual wickedness in high places are bound up and we are loosed from you in the name of Jesus as it is written in Matthew 18:18-19. No longer can you harrass us or have us operate in fear. We will not become your slave to anything. As in Luke 22:31 "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith amy not fail. And when you have turned back strengthen your brothers."  Lord, Lord, strengthen me so that I may strengthen others.

Walk with courage and find your heart's desire. Let your intentions be pure and let your purpose be know. No cults or crazies will have any kind of stronghold on you. Satan is defeated and the Devil is a Liar.

May you have a blessed day today and let no weapon formed against you prosper today or any other day. All things work together for good. Be blessed today and be a blessing to someone. I love you.

You are Not Alone

You are not alone. We need each other.

You are reflecting on everyday values and attitudes that we as followers of God should experience and be influenced by. When we decide to embrace values we want something that will reflect God, and you picked up on that. Its important to try and reflect God in our actions and beliefs. You know that faith changes a persons life. Faith will make you do things you might not have done before. Faith. I hear disgust in your voice.

"There was a man all alone, he had neither son nor brother.

There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth.

For whom am I toiling," he asked,

and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?"

"This too is meaningless--a miserable business! Ecclesiastes 4:8)

You are in a battle that needs many fighters. Unite with others to fight this battle. Just like when you had the march with the caskets and then everyone was marching, I believe if they are aware of the other marches they will come together too. We have to work together somehow to make a difference. Legislature needs to change and attitudes need to be changed.  The little  "racist" are breeding their own form of racism. This is the new civil right movement. You make a difference in people's lives and I know you have made a difference in my life.

"In the same way the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:26-28)

You know that's us. That's our foundational scripture. That can only mean we are conquerors. Stay Strong and know that you are loved very much. I just cant handle those stairs, and the baby, and the diaper bag. I can still love you very much.

 

Good Morning

Good Morning Lord. We are here another day and we are continuing to praise you daily.  Thank you Lord for your boldness and courage. You continue to instill these qualities in my spirit. I pray for the continued freedom of utterance to open my mouth boldly and to proclaim the mystery of the good news of God. I take comfort and am encouraged by the knowledge that the Lord is my Helper and my Salvation. I will not fear nor dread. What can man do to me? I proclaim the word towards Heaven, Hell and the Earth. God is my Shepard, whom shall I fear. I am complete in the Lord. I praise the Lord and Jesus is my Savior and Redeemer. Glory to His Name. I press on.

You Did A Good Thing

When people fail us we become disillusioned. Becoming disillusioned requires us to to lose respect. When someone begins to challenge you about your choice to fight instead of giving up or giving in it means they had their trust in a man and not in God. You are a man of God. You are acting out of your profound relationship with God. your heart allows you to be a leader of those who want to draw closer to God by doing the right thing. Sometimes the right thing requires you to go against the grain. The norm and to be seen as someone who might lead people astray. All great leaders will be challenged with that choice. When you are able to work with others, leaders also, you may not agree with everything they do but you can be confident in having a working relationship with God. I know that you have people, leaders as well as followers who give you a hard time. They do every thing from saying you have a deceitful heart, you are a media hound and you are too proud. These opinions are to distract you and hurt you. Don't let your heart or your mind dwell on these comments. No matter who has made them to you. You are wonderful and courageous. I know this and so do you. You are loved and thought highly of. You are not a failure and you are loved. You did good today. Your heart is definitely in the right place. Don't let them discourage you. Everybody just doesnt care. They think why should I care about them? You know why, we are all important. You are very important.

Rain Delay

 

"The whole world is desolate because no one reflects in their heart”

(Jeremiah 12:11)

Friends are like lights

Tonight I went out to celebrate a birthday for one of the church members. We really aren't that friendly but I have no problems with her and I thought this might be ok. The group dynamics were interesting since I really am not that familiar with most of the people. What really got me was how certain ones tried to stiff people on the bill. They wanted us to pay for things that they ordered that we didn't. "Oh lets just split the bill evenly"

Not when we are at an upscale restaurant anyway and I didn't really want to go anyway. Now I am reassured never to do that again. That's too much money for challenging company. I enjoyed talking to the birthday girl and her mom but the organizer of the event was too rude and sneaky.  Some lights shine bright, some have blown out and need to be changed. How was your day?

Good Night. See you at the march.

Good Morning

Good Morning Father God. Thank you for today. Father God go before us to make crooked places straight. Help us as we find new locations. Give us wisdom to make wise decisions. Give us favor, good understanding and high esteem with You and with the people that we have to deal with on our journey. Thank You  for supplying and preparing us for our journey. I trust you to direct me my new location, new friends, new co workers. Father God I commit this move to you, I trust you to direct me to to a place where I can worship you and fellowship on one accord. I know that you will give me the desires of my heart and I make my request know to you in my heart and my mind. You will keep me in peace and I pray that my mind stays on You. I trust you with all my heart, I lean not to my own understanding but in all ways I acknowledge You and trust you to direct my path. Thank you Father for blessing this move, for hearing my prayer and for traveling mercies each and every day of my life.

I hope you have a good day today. I pray that what ever you do today is blessed and you are doing a new thing. I pray that whatever you are trying for today is what you want. I pray for successes for you today. Maybe you have been wanting something and now you are finally going to get it. Have a blessed day today and be a blessing to someone special. I have a full day today. Workshop, then celebration dinner this evening. I know it will be a long day. Baby and mommy are gone, they have a wedding party to their hair with three other girls in Arlington Heights. Haven't seen my other daughter, her schedule is so confusing. Haven't seen mom either for a day, which is a good thing. Dad just sits, waiting. Waiting for what. Well I had better get ready. Be blessed and be a blessing to someone today. I love you.

Good Night

God is always full of surprises. Today I was on my way home, in traffic. I had left a few minutes early because I had to baby sit. I turn on the radio because I'm tired of my CD's and what do I hear on V103 around 3:30-3:45. yes, it was you. On the radio. What a treat! You have taken radical authority over a problem that should not continue to be a problem. Why is there a fight to have people, singers, rappers, respect women and respect life? Keep doing what yo are doing. You are continuing to do something new and fresh and it frightens them. I love it. Keep the faith. Walk in truth and love and you will succeed. Remember what's important.

Its been a long day and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I am going to try and leave early tomorrow. Take care and have a good night. Be blessed and be a blessing to someone. I love you.

Good Night

Hello

How was your day?

Today we saw  a short film about the war in Uganda. The children that are displaced and the horrible living conditions. We are connecting with a group from Loyola to communicate via Internet with a school there. I think the children will be very excited about it.

Lord I confess all of my faults and my slips and my sins to you. I am earnestly seeking your assistance in all that I am responsible for. I seem to have to take care of all of my father's stuff. My stuff and it just seems so much. Sometimes I seem overwhelmed. I am counting down the days until July 20th. Then I am seeking my new position. What will that be? Location is important, but not the most important. What is the most important? How do I decide? What will make me happy or at least keep me sane? I thought working the summer with good children would help me decide. I have put  a picture of you and me on my binder. Big 8 x 11 picture. I brought it as an artifact that we had to bring to show what is part of our life. My church and activism is very much a part of my life. I was sneaky by having you represent that aspect of my life. Now I get to see you through out my day.The days seem so long in the morning, the afternoons go by swiftly. I think the coffee has kicked in by then.Two more days and then the real fun begins with the children. At least we will be near the beach. Loyola is a nice campus. Why am I traveling so far? I work in the city, I go to church in the city, I spend a lot of time with friends in the city, when I hang with friends. Why am I out here in the burbs? There is nothing that I am connected to out here. The only thing would be my family and they have been here for almost 10 years now.  Well I'm going finish reading this book and get ready for tomorrow. good Night.Be Blessed and Be a Blessing to someone.

Good Night

Good Night Father God and thank you for today. Thank you for showing me to me first thing this morning. I saw something I needed to do and that was new for me. Help me to speak words of grace. Help me to speak the right things before I even open my lips. Help me to speak words of comfort, encouragement and words that strengthen. Keep watch at the door of my lips, forgive me when my patience has really come to an end. Father God you are my comforter, counselor, helper, advocate, intercessor, standby and strength. Whatever comes my way help me to consider it wholly and with patience and steadfastness. Allow me to grow in spirit and truth. Lord I send up this prayer because you know what I need, what I am asking for and what I have been waiting for.

Today was more emotional than yesterday. Now we have a lot of people who want to tell their story. There are a million stories in the naked city. Every has a story of struggle. We are all challenged by something. Our day went really fast. We had a lot to do and little time to do it. When I got home we went out to dinner. We are trying to do that at least once a month. How did the House of Hope go? I hope you all had a good turnout. Well, good night and be blessed.

Today

This afternoon was very emotionally charged. We are preparing our lesson plan for the next four weeks and its on how to build community within the school and our classroom. The group that I am in is following the events that happened when a five year old boy was dropped from a 14 story window back in 1995. That was so horrible. Two teenagers from there did a voice documentary that was on NPR and we listened to the whole thing today. Oh My God!!! The boys spoke to one of the boys father who was in prison at the time, the mother and brother of the boy who was dropped. He was only five years old. He was dropped because he refused to steal from Jewel Food Store and this was his punishment. I cried when I heard them tell how his older brother, 8, was with him and tried to stop them. When they hung him out of the window for the second time, the 10 year old bit his hand and it made him let go. He ran down the stairs from the 14th floor thinking he could catch him. He thought he could catch him, he could make it in time to catch him. I cried. We forget about that incident but the pain is still there for many of the children and people who are around who still remember that incident.  I just found it so appropriate that we are also call for "Stop The Violence" this summer. God is reminding us to care for the children. There is such a need for strong men in their lives. The men have to step up and do thier part. It was said that the young man who was the leader of it, his father was in prison, and before he went to prison the young man was doing good, when he left the young man fell by the wayside. These boys should be getting out about now, or have already gotten out of juvenile detention. They were the first to be tried as an adult in Illinois. Look how many lives are lost over this act? Tomorrow we all get the book My America, they two teenagers who did the documentary wrote it with help of course. You probably have it so get it out and read it again. Let's not forget Eric Morris. The important thing to remember is that many of our children experience horrible things daily and they have noway to diffuse the bad feelings but to fight. They need social and emotional counseling to make this work. Counseling is so important. When ever we have any kind of mass killing occurs we have counselors come in, flags lowered and a national day of mourning. What about the children in our community that have been killed. Where is our national day of mourning, flags at halfmast, and a grand outpouring of counseling? Help our children to cope. Help them to become productive citizens of these United States. I had one student tell me if he didnt get this summer job he might have to snatch old ladies purses. He was sincere. I told him I was glad he got the job because I didnt want to be the lady who's purse he snatched. I try not to carry a purse anyway. These are desperate time for young people of color and they have been for quite some time. Ten years ago boys talked of desperate times and they are still here. Still here. I have a full week of this, then I have to try and teach it to students who probably have not heard of it because they were born in 93 and 94 and this happened in 95. We still are asking for a stop to the violence.

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to you.

Thank you for stepping up and taking on the challenge to raise boys who I know were very difficult at times. Thank you for taking the time to love those boys and to make your home their home. Thank you. YOU ARE A GOOD FATHER and a GOOD SON. I THINK YOU WILL MAKE A GOOD HUSBAND TOO. Whenever that day comes.

Did you already have that book that I gave you? I meant to ask you but I was so concerned about not falling on those stairs with the "little man" and the diaper bag that I forgot to ask you. Now when I'm ready to talk to you, excited about seeing you and wanting to talk, talk, talk, I forget to ask you the question. If you do have the book I can give you the receipt and you can exchange it.

Tomorrow I have to go to the inquiry design institute for a week. Then I start the summer academy. I will be either at Northeastern Illinois or Loyola for four weeks. July 20th its over and the real vacation begins. During all of this I have to find a new job. I have been offered Mason again but I don't want to come back. We have a new principal and she is interesting.

I am watching the Golden Teachers Award to inspire me to continue teaching. Teaching is hard. These young people are challenging. When I read the sign "Discipleship is hard" That says it for any endeavor that you are truly considering making your own, your career, your life. There must be a passion to continue even during the hard times. Be blessed tonight and know that you are loved very much. Can't say you didn't get chocolate today ;-)

Yet I will Rejoice

Thank You Lord for today. Today was a good day. A day that we have continued to bless you and praise you. Blessed Assurance.

The weather is so warm and yet we are able to march. Lord there is too much killing. We have to protect life. Value it and rejoice about it. Its like every day we have another gun tragedy, violence at the ball park between the players, no less. The violence is escalating in all areas of our life. What is going on. We have to pray, pray and pray.

 

Enjoy your day, your afternoon and evening. Be blessed tonight. Be a blessing to someone special. You are loved.

Glory To God Its Over

Thank God for today. Its over and the children are left in mystery.  This is the end of my West Side Story.

The ones who have to go to summer school know but the rest of them don't know their grades. Due to our new system. Its great but the overload is too much. That's just my opinion. I loaded all of my boxes today and I am through. Good bye Mason.  I know that where ever I go next the biggest thing I will look for is air conditioning. Its important for me and the students. I was on the third floor and even during the winter it was 90 degrees plus. I am making my list and the top priority for my school must be air conditioning. This summer I will have that. The classes next week are air conditioned. The university for the next four weeks are air conditioned. Thank God for air conditioning.  If your environment is uncomfortable then you really cant concentrate to learn or teach. You re constantly thinking about the heat. Children are unable to put aside the discomfort of the environment to try and learn.  I hope that they are happy this next year.

Why don't we make it our goal to pray for the world.
The word is powerful and the world needs prayers.
The family structure is crumbling; Life is in jeopardy. Families are dying daily. Prayer is so important. How can we stop the murdering of families by family members.  People need to lear to love one another. the problem is that people are not communicating with one another so when something irritates them they dont speak of it and let it build up until they burst or kill.  We have to talk to one another, communicate with each other. Let eac other know the things that upset us and what makes us happy. I dont want us to be strangers to eacdh other. I have been writing for over three years. I think you know some things about me and I know some things about you.  You are a good man and Iam sure of that. There's a wonderful future for us. I am a very confident woman and I am sure that this is the right thing for me.

Good Night

Hello

How was your day today?

This has been a very busy week.

I have packed most of my stuff. I had my boxes ready today to go to the truck but my daughter had a doctor's appt for herself and the baby so I couldnt load them today because when she did finally pick me up we had to leave. She was working tonight and already late. The baby got four shots today. He's sleeping now. I have been finishing up my records and stuff. I dont like all of this hand written record keeping. We have some stuff on the computer which was just started but its not finalized and the system keeps locking up. Nothing more to really say. The day was just another day.

Its disgusting to hear about four more people killed with a gun. It seems every day we have heard of someone being shot. Why would a mother kill her children and herself? What is going on? Why are people so violent towards those who are supposed to be their loved ones. Can we truly love one another?  I think we can.I have to believe we can. Its is possible.

Save our Children They are Worth It

Hi

I stay hopeful

I feel so good about yestrday';s protest. I asked everyone at work if they saw it and they all said they did. It was so spiritual. That was really great.

So how's your day going? I hope all is well for you/
"How much longer are we going to do this?

I just have to wonder.

I have records to finsih tonight. I am counting down the days.

Good NIght

Today was a really wonderful day. Last day for students, so you know I was thrilled.

Then I had student workers help me clean out most of my classroom.

The march was really very spiritual. It was great to see so much support. When we come together its amazing the power and force we can have. The community came out to march, to support and to gawk. But I believe we touched their hearts and I pray that the coffins send the message. All life is precious. I am so glad you were supported by the leaders of this city. I was really happy about that. Look at you, you had a good day. Our silent voices were heard loud and clear.

I just wanted to say hello and good night. I love you.

Good Morning

Good Morning Lord. Good Morning. Thank you for today. Thank you for another wonderful, beautiful day. I am here and I have a chance to do something right. It's been a while since I had an early morning entry but I hope I can keep it going.

This morning I want to encourage and uplift myself and you. I believe that my words are important and so are yours. Its important to stay strong and to believe in yourself. You have a right to be a champion for those who cant speak for themselves. Keep the Faith. Remember foolish talk by others and our selves is just that foolish talk. Intent is important. Your intentions are always to give insight, uplift and inform. Have a blessed day today and be a blessing to someone special.

Proverbs 17-18

Where I was today

Not that you care or are concerned but I was at home with the baby. He has been sick this week and he had a bit of diarrhea today so since I was babysitting today, as I do on all Sundays, I didn't take him into church because I would have to contend with a sick baby with diarrhea. I did call you tonight and I let the phone ring for a very long time. No answering service, no answering machine, just ring, ring, ring. Maybe you have caller ID and can see that I did call. I hope you do.

I will try again. Take care and be blessed tonight and always.

THE END OF THE ROAD

Something that always happens to me is that I am in need of a prayer. I pray in this journal for God to remember me, to help me and to love me. Religion is not on my mind. That was a tool to help me find God. Without my faith in God, I cannot and will not make it. I will not be able to pray my hate away for those who have oppressed me. I will not be able to pray my hate at those who make the one I love unhappy. I will not be able to pray my hate away for those who hate me and what I stand for.

I am at the end of my road. I am chasing a relationship that seems unreachable. I am just a woman. A regular, middle aged woman. A woman who is in love. Have I placed you on a pedestal? Do I believe you are great and wonderful and above all men. God I hope so because I cannot and will not have a man that I cannot look up to. Is that too much for you to handle. I don't know. Do I believe that you are a veritable man, one capable of mistakes and very human, I do believe you are a man. One who is sensitive and loving and who is being treated very unfairly right now. You have given the will to love again and I believe that you are sincere. How do we move forward. That's my dilemma? So Psalm 137 is what I have been reading.  I love you.

Words Are Powerful

The power of life and death are in the tongue and God said we would eat the fruit of it.

Show me to me.

Sunday and Tuesday just is not enough.

With the help of the Holy Spirit and by your grace alone, I will not let any unwholesome talk come out of my mouth, but only what is helpful for building up others according to their needs and to enrich them and benefit them. Words are so important. A careless word can harm or accomplish so much. What are the words Lord. What are the words that heal and create an atmosphere of calm. What are the words.

Put My Trust in God

What experiences in my life have led me to put my trust in God? Every thing I do and everything I say. I am doing things with only the faith and love of God. I have decisions to make and not a lot of time to decide. I have to trust God with my life and my circumstances. The "what if" becomes my ability to trust in God for my future and for my well being. Thank you God for my future. Thank you for everything you have done in my life and everything you will do in my life. Thank you God for taking control of my life. Guiding me and loving me. I love you. I wait patiently for the Lord. As I have objections and reservations the Lord calms my fears.

I wait patiently for the Lord;

He turned to me and heard my cry.

He lifted me out of the slimy pit,

out of the mud and mire;

he set my feet on a rock

and gave me a firm place to stand.

He put a new song in my mouth,

a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear

And put their trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:1-3

Developing Healthy Friendships

Lord, Lord, Lord. Why does an man who knows the truth continue to exaggerate the lie? When something that was done innocently is misconstrued and exploited, especially by people who are suppose to be within your circle of friends, family and associates turn on you , what are you suppose to think. Dear God help us to develop healthy relationships. Friends who encourage us and who fellowship with us and who provide companionship when we are in need. Let us know that the source of love, companionship and friendship is really within us. It is your love  and friendship that is expressed in our relationship with the Body of Christ.

Iron sharpens Iron, so friends sharpen the mind of each other. Leave positive and encouraging things in our friends. As we learn from each other let it be the worthy purpose that you have given us. Keep us balanced so that we will always seek to please you Lord rather than pleasing others. Give us divine connections, good friendships and the courage and grace to let go of detrimental friendships. We as and receive faith to develop healthy relationships. Your word says that two are better than one, tow are better than on, when one fails there is someone to lift them up. We need to lift up and encourage each other. Father God you know our hearts and the hearts of the people in our lives. Allow us not to be deceived by bad friendships that corrupt and do not have good morals for our lives and situation. Thank you for building strong character within us. Character that draws us closer to you Lord. Help us to be a better friend to our good friends.  To laugh with those who need to laugh and to rejoice with those that need to rejoice, and to weep with those that need to weep. Teach me to be a good and loyal friend. A quality friend. Develop a fun personality in me. One that has a good sense of humor and relaxing to be around. Allow me to be myself. I am a fun person. Instruct my heart and mold my character so that I may be faithful and trustworthy in my relationship. Continue to send me into a good life. Father God, I know that Your Son is My Real Best Friend. I know that he sticks closer than a brother. Jesus defines the standard for all friendships and love.

"Greater love hath no man than this, than a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

Thank you Lord that I can trust you and in trusting you I can trust myself. My need for my friends to be true, honest and loyal keeps me submissive to you. I submit the leadership to the Holy Sprit. Thank you Lord for your Love.

 

Good Night

Today was such a long day. It started off with the eighth graders having their Illinois constitution test then they went on their luncheon. Of course now we have the seventh graders who will become the next eighth graders and you know how they are right now, yes crazy. Crazier than ever. Three more student days. Just three. Right after leaving school I went home, dropped Anna at work, went over my dad's to get mail and stuff. Found out that some of the circuit breakers aren't working in his apartment. We have to go back on Saturday with an electrician. Back home by 8:30, get the baby to sleep. Pick up Anna and then finally my day is over. I'm just winding down now.  How was your day? What are you planting in the lives of the people around you?  Are you letting God guide what you sow? Would God be pleased?I pray that I am planting good seeds. I have had enough of today, I am ready for tomorrow. Good Night.

Stop The Violence

Stop the violence

identify those who need help

silent outcry

impact of witnesses and those injured and the ones who perpetrates the crime.

23 students killed by gunfire. Second largest since tracking gun violence

guns recovered on the streets of the city are test fired to find out if they have been used in other crimes. All shapes and sizes. Days when they have 30 guns retrieved. Fire arm vault is huge. Generally destroyed.

Where do the guns come from. The local area. Someone with a clean background purchases the gun and turns it over.

INDIANA AND MISSISSIPPI ARE VERY LENIENT. JUST A BACKGROUND CHECK AND SOMETHING ELSE.

Students speak with a former gang member. Operation Cease Fire. Many are destroyed and many continue to come in.

They all have easy access to guns. Change the laws. Go after the legislature. Think about the second amendment. Change the home and the family. Make sure we are not holding guns in our own home.

Many students feel the right to bear arms is more important than the life of students.

The Blair Bill. National Registry of all handgun purchased. Every handgun must be registered.

Protest against gun bill raised many obstructions. Many in the NRA have come against Pfleger. This is very unfortunate. Many want to keep the gun.

What about the people hurting.

The educational system failed her child.

She epected more social workers to step in. More social workers to work with the problems of the students. The 5 1/2 hours cannot solve the problem.

We cant blame the public school system alone. Parents will cry out for help and help them raise their child. The community is necessary to help raise the child when the parent is unable to do it.

Parents in the inner city schools are struggling already. The parents need help and the children are being lost. Families are broken. City loads are greater than the suburbs. Enough talking about what needs to be done and more about

Students think its very surreal when they have violence around them. They worry about revenge. Snitching is a very scary thing. Students are afraid to tell the truth.

More males standing up and bonding with the males.

The killings are part of pride.;

We need to invest in our youth.

Team leaders need to come together.

Schools cant do everything.

Communities need to come together.

Community need to monitor the report cards and have assistance where the parents are able to have help monitoring their children.

Encouragement and hope. I see you, I am interested and I know you are their.

We need to come together and help our children. Draw the line, let them know that violence is not acceptable.
Talk to our children about their dreams. Listen to them so they respect themselves and they respect others. We have learned to save the whales and save the elephants, why cant we save our children.

31 CPS students who lives came to an end too early. Its so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.

That's the end of the show.

What did I get out of it. People ready to talk about guns, violence and children. People who are in the trenches with the children and know the struggle that has been going on for a long, long time. I heard students who had a voice in the decision. Children who possibly have the solution to the problem because they are part of the problem. Were the students the ones who are the shooters. Only one was a former gang member and he said how guns will continue to come in. The students were afraid of revenge and retaliation. They may know something but the fear of being found out was too great. Fear of being hurt themselves stop many of them from telling the truth. The students have to be willing to tell on the ones with guns and the ones doing wrong. They are the ones who have the guns and get the guns and use the guns. Lets stop them.

You of course seem to be growing in wisdom everyday. You were an important part of the talk, yet you did not dominate the session. You are an over comer and the fact that they mentioned your tragedy with your son in 1998 did not shatter you. You are victorious and a ray of sunshine. Does this seem too positive. I just want you to know that you really did a good job. You were a success and that means a lot to me. You light up my life and I think you are getting the job done by keeping the real focus in the forefront. Thank you for being a positive part of my life.

Good Night

I missed you tonight. I hope you like the book. I found it really interesting and the pictures were so good. I got the book because I needed to know more about the history and the pictures we so good. If you already have it, then share it with someone else. I know you have a huge collection of African American things  this is just one more thing to add to it. I am so tired now, I enjoyed the bible study tonight. I needed that message. Just rest amd relax. Work on God's agenda, not my own. Have a good evening. I will be watching tomorrow.

The Statue Responds

Hello

Yes, the phrase stuck in my mind today. I had a really gritty day and I was able to think about it on my ride into work and back. The Statue. I sit there like a statue. Well there's not anything I can really challenge about that. I always look to you for the truth. Tell it like it is. Make me see the truth. We're talking.  But not talking. Yep, the statue, interesting

.

Let it Go, Let It Be

Well I am finally able to sit down and write. I have been grading tests and I had to finish them. Anna finally took a huge stack and that helped a lot. The baby has a temperature. We are concerned right now. When they are little like that you never know what little bug is bothering them. He has gotten all of his shots that he's suppose to have. Its like a little puppy. He has all of his shots, but he's still vurnable to stuff going around just from other children. He had that pool party the other day and he was around a lot of children. This is just initial worry. Everything is going to be all right. I have a book I want to give to you.

Your sermon was very good and right on time. I needed to hear it. I am putting my efforts in areas that I shouldn't. I need to be more of me and to just relax and be comfortable with that. I am what I am. I don't seek others approval. I do what I do because I don't know what else to do. So I will cry until you tell me, let it go let it be. My assignment is to do God"s will. I think my assignment is you. You have a lot of stuff going onthat can be very distracting and discouraging. You are a wonderful man of God. You speak the truth and continue to let God be the judge. Stay focused on the assignment. Don't be distracted by good deeds, and intentions. As my grandma used to say the road to hell is paved with good intentions.  I am so glad I have a place to go when trouble comes. I love the Lord. He heard my cry. Good Night and May God bless you. I'm going to listen to today's service again.

Birthday Pool Party

Today was Austin's pool party. What a day. Thank goodness the rain didn't spoil the day. For a one year old I think he had a good day. I had to leave after the cake. My back was bothering me.  It was a good day, just long. I know they make a lot of money off of the parents on these parties.

How was your day today? I hope it was good. Saturdays are like your day off but you seem to working on something on those days as well. Please let us know how you are doing and how your father is doing.  You are on my mind. Tell me how to make this better. Unity Sunday tomorrow. Graduation also. I wanted to go to the graduation but I don't think Austin can hang for that long. Have a good evening. Relax and recuperate.

Hello and Good NIght

Well babysitting is over. I babysit all day long. During the daytime they are just older. I got to keep the eighth graders who didn't get to go on their picnic plus I had my own class of nutty fruitcakes. That made for an interesting day. By the end of the day we were all ready to go home. Dear Lord thank you that it is finally June 1st. Fourteen more days and then freedom.

How was your day today? You need encouragement and kind words to keep you encouraged. I hope you had some good news today. Something to make you smile and not feel bad. Prepare for the good things that are coming in your life. Have a good night and be truly blessed tonight.