Powered by Purpose...

Be it resolved that 2012 was a positive and effective year of growth for me as a wife, mother and woman (with all that encompasses).
I had a grand second full year of mothering, growing, grooming, teaching, caring for and loving on Grace Evan Williams Wesson (the pictures will continue to come:o)  She's potty trained, can count to 25, is sociable and joyful, even tempered and well adjusted (for an almost 3 year old:o)
I have learned a lot about myself as a wife to Dale Wesson.  I continue to try and be more vulnerable and unconditionally loving and less judgmental and "right".  I continue to grow in the fact that he loves me and chose me and is committed to me.
As a woman, I've grown in wisdom.  I've become more accepting of folk and "their ways" without compromising myself. I've learned to pray more. I've become softer in my old age and desire to be more involved with the people who are invested in me and my best self. I've also decided that the important moments in life may not always involve the people I thought were important.  They hold no less value, but the reality of the relationships has become clearer.
I have learned to wait on God as opposed to rushing to do something when I feel at a loss.
I have accepted that being without an immediate community of friends and family only helps me to be stronger and grows me closer to God and my husband (which is a great thing).
I've learned that old friends are constant even if you don't see them or talk to them often and new friends can be true friends too.

Be it resolved that I will walk into my re-invented self as a thriving career woman in 2013.  I AM a journalist.  I AM a writer and will be an author.  I AM a blogger.  I AM a marriage advocate. I AM an effective communicator who will earn a living doing the things I enjoy doing and am good at doing (see above list of I AM statements ).  I AM powered by purpose and will continue to not just live, but excel and thrive in the coming year.

Be it resolved that YOU TOO can excel and thrive if you trust HIM and walk in HIS ways.  What are the things you've been praying for?  Hold on to that and set yourself up to receive it.  Continue to seek God's guidance, surround yourself with the folk who are interested in your best self, do the work and be open to receiving.

Be it resolved that every year has its number (as the old folks say).  Some didn't make it and many of us have suffered the loss of a loved one be it relative or friend.  To that I say be strong in the Lord and in the power of HIS might.  Feel the pain when it comes and hold the memories close.

Blessings for a healthy, joyful and prosperous New Year.  Here's to a safe transition from the old to the new. 

A State of Grace...

Grace is sleep.  I played and sang and danced and ran about all day with her and her cousins, Williams Tyler and Mya.  Today, I wore THEM out!  We went riding around the neighborhood to look at the lights and came back to get ready for the "new pajama" slumber party.  What a day....what a week...what a season of love and caring and life lessons.  At the playground today, Grace and Mya were walking the perimeter of the monkey bars and slides trying to balance.  Mya is 5, so of course she's more coordinated and faster.  Grace would walk behind her trying to keep up to the point that she kept falling off.  I'd say, "Grace, you don't have to keep up with Mya, just go at your own pace".  But of course, she wasn't hearing me.  She'd rather run and fall over in an effort to keep up with Mya. It just reminded me of... me.  Thankfully, as Advent ends, I'm more aware of the Joy in the effort to balance my life. I don't want to just keep up!  I anticipate....I'm preparing....but I also remember and am grateful for what is. 

Luke 2:11 Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

A State of Grace...

Having a nice time with family in Jacksonville, FL. It's been pretty low key, but  I so enjoy Grace having the chance to play and play and play with her cousins.  I've heard of "only children" talking about the special relationships they have with their close cousins because they grew up together like siblings.  It's a joy to watch. 

Went to Mother's 85th birthday party last night.  She's my sister in laws mother and she has 9 children, 22 grand, 11 great grand and 2 great great grand.  It was indeed a celebration of life!

The sermon in church today talked about the coming of Christ and how that makes me great.  If "you never wear red bottom shoes, you're great because Christ came for you."  I RECEIVE IT!

OVERJOYED!

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

A State of Grace...

We made it to Jacksonville!  It's the start of the Christmas holiday for us.  Two of three brothers live here and one sister, a host of nieces, a nephew and plenty of extended family will join us.  The Wessons arrived early to beat the family rush which starts around noon tomorrow.  The warm and fuzzies start almost immediately when you get with family.  Trust me naysayers, I know....I have some family members that suck the warm and fuzzy right out of me pretty quickly too.  But, the fact remains that WE ARE FAMILY.  I'm going to "NOT" blow my healthy eating ( as I enjoy a glass of Merlot:o) Yes, headed to the YMCA in the morning.  Enjoy your holiday as the advent season continues for another four days. If you too will be with family this holiday, anticipate the best time ever and see if that energy doesn't resonate with those around  you.  Hug momma and kiss daddy more times than you can count.  They miss that from you!  Say hi to old neighbors and church members who remember you when you were but a child; they had a hand in raising you.  Have a cocktail or a cup of tea with an old friend; laughs filled with memories go a long way.  I think these things are in line with the spirit of Christmas.

Luke 2:14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

 
In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.   

A State of Grace...

Just a couple of things of confirmation to share....

So, I applied for a job, interviewed and auditioned, turned in paperwork, talked about start dates, salaries and all manner of things that would have made me think I was getting the job.  After about three months, because that's how long the process took,  I got a call from the hiring News Director who said to me, "I wanted to call you personally and tell you that we were going with someone else".  #Lump in my throat #Gut Punch.  He went on to say all sorts of thoughtful and complementary things about how great I was and how he wanted to find a place for me (after having hired someone who already had an on air presence in the market).  It never manifested, but I have kept in touch with him.  Fast forward a year and a half later (this week) and he's fired.  WHAT!  The short of the long is that his boss decided to go in another direction and...he's gone.  Now, I've been on the short end of the stick when another boss, who didn't hire me, took over.  It resulted in me not getting my contract renewed and having a glorious six months to plan my wedding before getting a call that would put me back to work.  The job wasn't for me even though I lamented for a few days about how I just knew I was going back to work and how great it would be.  Greatness is in unwavering faith!

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future

Bath & Body Works had a sale on the three wick candles.  They were $8/each, which is phenomenal considering the usual $20 price tag.  I bought 6; 3 stress relief from the aromatherapy and three lavender vanilla.  I smelled some of the more full bodied scents (sandalwood vanilla being one of them), but decided to go with my usual.  I have company over the weekend for a little impromptu gathering and decide to bless my two girlfriends with a candle a piece.  I was glad to share in the eliminating of their stress so I thought nothing more about it.  Today, after running errands, I get home to a package on the front porch from my Mother-In-Law.  I open it and was gifted two Bath & Body Works Sandalwood Vanilla candles. :o)  And get this....the box also contained one of those holders the store has started selling for the 3 wick candles.  Never talked to Momma Rose about candles and she's never given me candles before.  Matters not whom I've talked to when God wants to bless me!

1 Corinthians 2:9 "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.   

A State of Grace...

Time is filled with swift transition,
Naught of earth unmoved can stand,
Build your hopes on things eternal,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
 
Refrain:
Hold to God’s unchanging hand,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand;
Build your hopes on things eternal,
Hold to God’s unchanging hand.
 
Trust in Him who will not leave you,
Whatsoever years may bring,
If by earthly friends forsaken
Still more closely to Him cling.
 
Covet not this world’s vain riches
That so rapidly decay,
Seek to gain the heav’nly treasures,
They will never pass away.
 
When your journey is completed,
If to God you have been true,
Fair and bright the home in glory
Your enraptured soul will view.


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.  

A State of Grace...

While running errands this morning, I saw parents picking up big ticket items from lay away (yes, some places do still lay it away:o)  Anyhoo, it made me smile thinking about all the wonderful Christmas mornings I woke up to find that I'd been a good girl!  The play kitchen complete with pots and pans and some food too; roller skates; new bikes every few years and...WAIT FOR IT... cabbage patch dolls complete with birth certificates...these are just a few of the prized Christmas treasures from over the years.  Growing up in Florida, the weather could go either way.  Sometimes it would be warm enough to wear shorts on Christmas but more often than not, I could sport some new leather boots or a new leather jacket.  It was Christmas after all.  Purses and jewelry were a favorite in high school.  I looked at my "L" ring in my jewelry box just the other day.  You know, the one in cursive and very 14K gold and very cute for the pointer finger and WAIT FOR IT....The add-a-bead necklace; also very 14K gold and cute.  Then there were the Aigner and Dooney and Burke purses.  Oh wait....penny loafers and duck boots and birkenstocks.  And how could I not mention the clothes from GAP, The Limited and United Colors of Benetton.  CD's are all the rave now, but back when I got a double cassette boom box with detachable speakers, you could have blown me over with a feather.  I'm pretty sure I got the Thriller cassette the same year...YES!!! One of my fondest Christmas memories, that me and my sisters live out to this day. is new pajamas on Christmas eve.  I've started doing it for Grace, too.  My mom, sisters and I would put on our new pajamas and cut up onions and peppers for the dressing or peel the potatoes for the sweet potato pies while sipping eggnog.  Soon it would be time for me to go to bed... until I was old enough to stay up and help wrap presents for my nieces who would be over Christmas day.  It was a wonderful life filled with some of the trappings of a commercial Christmas but mostly with the preciousness of family and memories in the making.

A little melancholy today as I remember my mother who died 12 years ago.  Thank God for the mother she was and inspired me to be.  MARSELL BULLOCK WILLIAMS


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.  

A State of Grace...

The Gospel lesson today was Luke's account (3:7-18) of John the Baptist going about preaching and baptizing "with water".  John called the people a brood of vipers and told them that they should "bear fruit worthy of repentance."  He went on to reiterate that point by saying bear fruit or else...be thrown into the fire.  I translate that as Bear fruit or be consumed by despair;  Bear fruit or be overcome with over eating, over spending, over indulging; bear fruit or be thrown into a pattern of lying and cheating and deceiving as a way of over compensating for the lack of love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness (the fruits of the spirit) in life.  Here's the good news...we lit the Rose candle today in celebration of the 3rd Sunday of Advent. REJOICE!!!  We've gone from the penitence and fasting of the purple candles to the rejoicing of the rose candle.  A season of celebration is upon us.  The birth of the Christ child is at hand!  As we wrap up the shopping and packing and begin to plan for travel and feasts and family, be mindful of the Advent of it all. 
Start with Expectation or Hope, LIVE the story of Redemption, REJOICE and plan to light the center or Christ candle on Christmas Eve or Christmas day in honor of HIS coming.  'Tis the season:o)

Cooked some chili last night and made a couple of dips and had a few people over.  REJOICE!  We talked, laughed and enjoyed the spirit of the season.  The Wessons do enjoy entertaining so it was fun:o)
Note: Low Fat Egg Nog is low on taste as well.  

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State of Grace...

Grace and I were out together when I heard about the school shooting in Connecticut.  I can't imagine what it must be like for a parent to hear the news that a shooting took place at their child's school, have to make their way to the school without being able to confirm whether or not their child is okay and then get to the school and be told that your child is not okay...beyond not okay....that their child is dead.  It's unfathomable.  I sometimes think that I post too many pictures of Grace (and I do:o) or that I write about or talk about her too much (and I do:o)...but, she is my baby.  She is a precious gift from God, and I'm grateful to have been given the charge of watching over and raising her.  It gets complicated when you hear news like this today and think...those parents just dropped their kids off at school.  Surely they didn't think that would be the last time they spoke to or saw their babies alive.  I grew up saying, "If the Lord's will, then I'll be there", or "If the Lord's will, I see you tomorrow", because the truth is, we don't know what's going to happen from one moment to the next.  That's little consolation for the parents, families and communities of the babies who lost their lives today at the hands of a merciless killer.  This tragedy affects us all.  I believe many parents are holding their children a little tighter today.  We do all we can to ensure safety, yet, this world and its ills make that increasingly more difficult.  My heart goes out to the parents who were planning for the holidays and will now have to plan funerals.  This is one of those times when I try to make sense of the tragedy and am left in want.  I watched the President of the United States, Barack Obama, fight back tears as he offered condolences to the families.  Governors, anchors and reporters alike were all reminded ( as they spoke through emotion) that behind titles and roles of importance, we are but mere mortals who struggle to make sense of that which is senseless.
I thank God for Grace and pray for us all.

We went for our evening ride to see lights in nearby neighborhoods.  It's nice to see the season being celebrated.

Let's us stay strong in the power of HIS might.

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State Of Grace...

 Starting....NOW... GIVE UP one cup of coffee or one glass of wine or one carbonated beverage or one snack.
TAKE ON one day of exercising or spending 15 minutes in devotion or learning to speak a language.
Stop taking his calls; stop saying you don't want to get married if you do and find ways to grow the relationship you're in.
Get ahead of the New Year and start now with the things you want for yourself.  If you want a better career, take a course or learn a new trade.  WE CAN DO IT! 
 My challenge is my weight and I've decided to give up several things to get it under control....SACRIFICE.  I've shared before that I miss pizza sooooo much and occasionally used to enjoy a cupcake.  Not now.  Right now, I am in battle and need to be fight my vices.  There are things that I've cut back on and then there are things that I've started to enjoy more than before (asparagus sauteed just right in a pat of butter are pretty yummy:o), and baked or smoked chicken wings dipped in a little sauce have become a fan favorite at the Wesson home.  ALTER a few bad habits (and I mean that in every sense of the word).  We are wonderfully and fearfully made.  Surely that busy schedule or lack of self control or inability to deny ourselves....surely those things can't be blamed always.  I'm in the trenches and I celebrate your efforts.  READY....SET....GO!

Grace had a grand time playing Princess in her Princess Tiana dress with her Princess Tiana doll and Panda (don't know how poor Panda got roped in).  We danced and flew around and she waved her wand (or whisk:o) on her way to the castle!  I was a dutiful fairy who flew around spreading my magic dust!  I'M HER BEST BUDDY (she told me so)!

Dale and I are having our own Scandal watching party.  It's one of the few shows that we watch together and both enjoy.  Yes, I watch the Daily Show and Colbert Report and he watches countless hours of news.  The things we do for LOVE.

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State of Grace...

I got some braids/twists today.  I went with the Kinky Twists as opposed to the Senegalese Twists.  After researching pictures and time and possibilities, the Kinky Twists seemed more versatile and a good start to a season of braids and growing out my perm.  I also didn't want them to be too long, and every picture I saw of the Senegalese Twists had them down your back.  That would have been too much to start with.  Grace was already a little scared when she first saw me.  It didn't take but a few strokes of a twist for her to be ready to dive in.  Of course with my scalp being a little tender from the pulling and stretching and twisting, we'll wait a couple of days before we "play hair".  So, am I going natural?  I can't say for sure.  What I can say is this...I feel like Vershawn Mitchell's latest gospel hit "Turning around for me....sooner or later, it will work in my favor....it's turning around for me". Life is already great, but I'm going to new places.  As I near 40, I feel like my 30's were me establishing myself, my career, my family....I want to use the 40's to transform each aspect of my being.   TRANSFORM...ESCALATE...MOVE FORWARD/HIGHER.  I look at my very cute :o) permed hair and want to know what my hair underneath that would be like.  It's been since 9th grade that I saw my natural hair.   Truth be told, I'm more inclined to be a flat ironing/straightening chemical free girl.  I'm not sure what this process is, but I feel good to say I'm in the PROCESS. 

Thinking about my list of successes for this year.  I usually do a "be it resolved " blog to put the year to rest.  As the recording secretary for my home church growing up, I'd write and read resolutions at funerals.  The older I got, the more I understood that groups, other churches and individuals were accounting for the things that had occurred in the lives of the deceased and getting them on record.  It's a good practice to end many things.  Anyway, I want to spend some time reflecting on what I did right/good this year so as to continue in that direction.

I missed Grace all day while I was getting my hair done.  She and daddy of course were hamming it up and going about their day, and that's a good thing.

Speaking of daddy....SHOUT out to my husband , Dale, who hates it when I alter my hair be it weave, color, braids or the like but insists on letting me be me and is happy when I feel good about myself. 

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State of Grace...

My Advent lesson this morning shared the story of a busy train commute and how all along the way, everyone's talking about their family's, jobs and lives.  The author went on to say that there was one quiet car on the train where no talking, phones, or other noises were allowed (fiction, I'm sure:o)  After having a hectic week, the author spent a commute home in the quiet car and was profoundly transformed in those 45 minutes.  The point was for us to also find some quiet in the midst of the craziness of the holiday season. Make it more holy and less hectic.  I'm finished Christmas shopping and gifts are wrapped and under the tree.  I intentionally get it done early so as not to have to contend with the last minute of it all.  Granted, there are little things here and there that will call for me to join the rat race, but for the most part, I really am trying to create a spirit of calm and a state of Grace in this season...in my life.  Today, while writing, I turned off the Christmas music (which I so enjoy) and just let the silence speak to me.  Of course, I could hear the clock ticking, the washing machine spinning and the refrigerator humming.  But with the scents of eucalyptus and mint permeating the room and a cup of lemon jasmine green tea, my moment's peace was extended to an hour and a half (nap time:o)  #ANTICIPATING GOODNESS

Grace and I saw a homemade applesauce recipe in her Highlights magazine.  We made it, and it's good.  The best part was probably smashing the apples with her at the end.  #YUMMY GOODNESS

Grace is watching Doc McStuffins on the Ipad, I'm writing on my MacBook and Dale is on his Ipad, he called it the new nuclear family.  Fortunately for the state of our family, we do unplug and talk and read and enjoy just being.  I guess just not right now:o) FAMILY TIME GOODNESS

Seeing and maybe even having to find the GOOD in things, situations and especially people really does change one's perspective.

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State of Grace...

I think I am very much caught up in the debate on colorism.  For starters, I do acknowledge that it still exists, and I didn't need CNN to tell me that.  Dale and I barely watched "Who's Black in America".  I'm not a huge fan of CNN always putting Soledad O'Brien up as the stations image bearer of blackness in this country.  You'd think there would be more diversity but just about every anchor on that station who's supposed to be of color is what's now considered racially ambiguous.  IF Soledad identifies black, then as far as I'm concerned, she is. I'd still like to see more people at the desk who look like me.  Along those same lines, Grace was invited to a birthday party earlier this year by some folks we met at the YMCA.  The mom, dad and both children ( a girl and boy) are very light skinned with what's stereotypically called "good hair", and the paternal grandparents are mulatto. When we get to the party, it strikes me that I and the nanny are the only two people there who wouldn't have passed the "brown bag" test.  I started thinking about whether or not it was an intentional effort on the part of every person in that family to keep the fair skin gene pool alive.  I have friends who date exclusively in their light skin hue of the African-American spectrum for fear that any other choice might be rejected by mom and dad.  It's akin to the cultural indoctrination that Carter G. Woodson spoke about in the Mis-Education of the Negro.  That book was written in 1933 and yet, here we are.  I sometimes wonder if I'm more aware of it because of my dark complexion.  I'm not self conscious about it, but I am aware of it.  I have nappy hair and a wide nose.  My lips are thick and my eyes dark.  I am a black woman, but I accept that I don't have the black woman market cornered.  There are women of all hues who identify as black, and I respect that.  My dad lived in a time where they'd say, "If you're white, you're all right; if you're brown, stick around; if you're black, get back".  Now we don't say those words, but I wonder.

I pulled out my electric blanket this evening.  It's not extremely cold, but it's damp out and this blanket, AFTER MY HUSBAND OF COURSE:O), is the coziest thing in the house.  It was my second favorite wedding present after a pair of Crate & Barrel lap table trays.  TROUBLE :O)

Bought some walnuts in the shell.  When I saw them in the store, I was reminded of my dad.  We'd watch television while cracking our nuts by squeezing two nuts together. (none of that nutcracker stuff:o)  Mine would often be crushed into tiny pieces, and daddy would share his whole nuts with me because he was better at it than I.  I'm only a little better at it now.  Still more tiny walnut pieces than I'd like, but the memories are whole and fully in tact. 

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State of Grace...

Few people know that I had a discerning committee to see if I was being called to the ministry as an Episcopal priest.  I know.  My committee actually said I should go to seminary but I wasn't ready for that call if it was indeed so and decided to be a journalist.  I spread the good news in other ways:o)
I was thinking about that as I sat in church today.  Father Griffin and Deacon Dianna are just doing their jobs I suppose as they go through the liturgy for the day and give sermons and prayers and pass down blessings.  But to me, it's always so special and reverent to experience God through every aspect of service.  I was raised baptist and was confirmed in the Episcopal church, while in college, after having been the youth minister at Grace Mission in Tallahassee, FL.  It was the outreach station for the Episcopal diocese of North Florida.  I fell in love with the kids I worked with and came to appreciate praise and worship in a way I hadn't experienced up until that point.  I do love me some gospel music though and will wear some gospel out on the way to and from church because at church it's all hymns.  I remember when I first joined St. Michael and All Angels in Tallahassee, I said to Mrs. Little (God rest her soul) that church would be perfect if we sang gospel.  She said "well then, you'd lose me.  I don't like that music."  I realized in that moment that our worship and praise are different all around.  The good news is that God is the same.    YAY GOD!

Earlier today, my neighbor Mary brought the Wessons a load of pumpkin bread for the holidays.  When we moved here almost three years ago, she'd just lost her son in a freak boating accident on the dam.  She wasn't very sociable and our worlds seemed miles apart.  When we speak across our yards, I see her heart and I hear what is still pain and sadness.  Yet, in all of that, she thought enough of us to bring us a holiday treat.

Hosted the Christmas party last night at DW Headquarters Hair Salon and JAAS Jewelry.  The owners, Denise Williams and Shonna Williams have become fast friends of mine.  They are both sassy, stylish and sophisticated.  I'm glad to have a place that feels familiar and fun with girlfriends.  We played games, ate food and enjoyed the season with their clients and other invited guests. FRIENDS

I'm putting Christmas cards in the mail tomorrow.  I've been backing them all weekend.  I've already received a couple of cards and I love it..from the pictures to the sweet words of the season.

Today is one of my sister's birthday.  We talked at length about her plans and celebration.  Last year this time, Grace and I were in Boston celebrating her 50th with her.  It was a fun time.  This year, we sang happy birthday to her over the phone.  Not as momentous but special all the same.  Blessings to Rochell Williams on her 51st birthday.  FAMILY


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God. 

A State of Grace...

I've been looking at Christmas pictures from Grace's first two years.  It's funny how quickly the transition happens.  One minute she's barely aware of the change in seasons and holidays and the next minute (year) she's talking about Santa bringing her dollies and toys and candy.  Some of the things she says, I just wonder, "where does her little mind get this"?  She's growing and changing and I'm transitioning into the super mom of a toddler extraordinaire and it's SOMETHING ALRIGHT.  I'm glad we're moving forward.  FORWARD MOVEMENT MEANS LEAVING SOME THINGS BEHIND; even the things we enjoyed at that point in life.

I miss pizza and cupcakes.  I miss a lot of other things that I've given up since trying to transform my physical being, but those two...I REALLY MISS.  I enjoyed them when we were together, but it wasn't really a good relationship.  I mean, it wasn't toxic and it didn't hurt immediately, but they were killing me softly.   So it is with a few people in my life.  I miss you.  If I speak it, then it's acknowledged in a way that allows me to MOVE FORWARD.  I try not to dabble.  My personality is such that when I indulge in pizza, I go all in.  If pizza is bad for me, then so it is and let it be. WHAT OR WHO IS KILLING YOU SOFTLY.  I mean, they or it don't pose an immediate threat to your life, but overindulging (and for some, simply being in their presence) will surely take away a part of your maturation and growth.  And, you've no doubt worked hard to get where you are.

 It's Friday night and the living is easy! :o)

I'm reading 1776.  I never have and I want to.  

When do kids learn to differentiate between color and traits?  As I watch Grace play with her playmates, she's so open.  I wonder what messages of "being closed" I send.    How do I turn it around and do I really desire to do so?

My hair salon is throwing a Christmas party tomorrow night and I AM IN CHARGE OF GAMES.   These ladies have become fast friends; a God send really.  My stylist called me two days ago to ask me when I wanted to come and get my hair done.  I go in the morning.
 
Speaking of hair, and this is my final thought for the night...I'm getting braids for the holidays and I think I'm just going to go with it and see what happens.  I want to go to newer heights...grow...transform. I want to be different...better...that may mean changing some things.


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

A State of Grace...

Watching SCANDAL. If you're not a tv watcher, watch Scandal on ABC.  It's smart, well written and downright good tv.  You'd have to start from the beginning to get it and piece it all together. My Facebook timeline, during the show, is filled with comments and one liners from others who are also watching.  It's based on the life of a real life woman, Judy Smith.  Kerry Washington plays Olivia Pope and she's a "fixer".  Her character is savvy, sophisticated, smart, stylish and stunning at any given time of day.  Scandal is the modern day Dynasty, Dallas and Falcon Crest all rolled into one.  It's high drama.  It's not wholesome though.   It's doesn't take you back to the days of family tv as in I Love Lucy or say Good Times, but it's good drama.  From the beginning of the series, Olivia Pope is having an affair with the President of the United States.  They share a bed or a desk :o) and seemingly a love that makes you want to see it and their union thrive.  They're so passionate until you forget it's immoral and scandalous. But it is good. Olivia Pope has a team of charming, neurotic and treacherous misfits who each have a defined roll.  They've each been saved by Pope from some crazed life happens type of situation.  They lie, cheat and steal to "fix" a clients situation, and they are loyal to Olivia.  It's created, written and produced by Shonda Rimes.  A talented African American woman who's created several solid and long lasting shows, including Grey's Anatomy.  Each week the show ends with a cliffhanger and we're left wishing it could have lasted a little longer.  We wait, trying not to fall off of the cliff, until our next date with our friends in what's sentimentally known as Shondaland.

A white mouse, a bag of gold fish, a toilet seat cover, a bow tie, a bag of office trash and a bag of bubbles and silly string...These were the gifts for the white elephant gift exchange at the Young Life Christmas party tonight.  I serve on the committee for Lake Murray Young Life, and it's a joy to see high school kids hear about Christ, some for the first time.  Tonight's party was for the committee and college leaders who volunteer their time to mentor the kids and share the Gospel.  FUN TIMES!


Younglife.org

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

 

A State of Grace...

Advent...A season of expectant waiting and preparation.  WAITING WITH EXPECTATION(S) AND PREPARING IN THE MEANTIME...Sounds like Faith to me.  At first thought, it seems like a bit much to be waiting and preparing all at once, but I get it.  There's a longing for the coming of Christ at the Christmas season, but instinctively there's a preparation for the second coming of Christ.  During Advent, which started Sunday and ends on Christmas Eve, we sing songs of the season, teach lessons, light candles of a certain color and follow a theme. The season of advent is significant.  Though commercial, there are calendars where the doors open and reveal a poem or passage or gift or chocolate.  The idea is that each day leading up to Christmas is significant...special.  It kind of makes me want to have my own little Advent season everyday, all the time...A life of expectancy, anticipation and preparation.  Oh for it to be so when I say "I'm living the life"!
What are you waiting for with expectation?  What are you preparing for simultaneously?

Speaking of Preparing...I'm talking about climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.  What I should say is that I got a Young Life flyer in the mail talking about the wonderful excursion/experience that is climbing the mountain with Tanzanians and other Young Lifers.  It can take up to 9 days and that includes a day or two of gathering, 3-4 days of climbing, a night's rest and 3-4 days descent.  I KNOW...I KNOW.  It's a lot, and my husband says I may want to spend some time in Denver or some other high altitude city before I go traipsing across Tanzania.  POINT WELL TAKEN.

Maybe I'll start with guitar lessons, which is also on my list, so when we get to the top of the mountain and have a worship service, I might be able to contribute on my acoustic guitar.  I'll figure out how to get it up there when the time comes.

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

 

A State of Grace...

It's that time of the year....when I start to think about the holidays of my youth and how I always had more than I could want for.  What usually happens during that time is I start to think about my parents who afforded me so much.  They are both gone on to be with the Lord.  My mom died 12 years ago December 18th.  I don't usually think about that so early in the month, but I had a lengthy conversation today with a girlfriend who isn't in relationship with her mother.  There are many reasons, but that's not my story to tell.  What did strike me is how she said she responds when people say "but that's your mother".  Her response is that she's glad they have a good relationship with their mothers.  I did (have a good relationship with my mother)...  Even when I didn't realize how grateful I should be for a hot meal everyday; I did...When she encouraged (made) me go to Sunday School, Church and Baptist Training Union every Sunday;  I did...when I'd ask for something and she would say "go ask your daddy", not knowing fully how much of a good wife she was also being; I did....when I went off to college and when I'd neglect to call often enough; I did...when she was down with depression and transitioning from Prozac to Wellbutrin or the next best thing; I did....until she died seemingly premature from a stroke before the age of 70.  A relationship between a mother and daughter (child) can be one of the most difficult at times, but it can be one of the most loving, sincere and enduring relationships that any of us will ever know.  I agree with my girlfriend.  Be grateful... for life (that's all some mothers are capable of giving), and for as much or as little as your mother could/can give.  Most of us (including mothers) are only as good as what we saw or have allowed ourselves to learn. Extend grace and mercy and if not now...work toward being in that place. Work toward a good relationship if you don't have one and if you do...I keep coming back to... being grateful.  I am.  I think my daughter will reap the benefits of me being raised well by my mother.  Rest In Peace Marsell Bullock Williams.  #GRATEFUL


In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

A State of Grace...

I like it when I feel close to my husband.  While that may sound odd and especially awkward to say in print, it takes effort and intent to create a constant state of intimacy (IN TO ME YOU SEE).   When I first became a wife, I think I took it for granted because it was easier in the newness of our marriage and without kids in the house.  I'm not just speaking of sex, because I believe kids need to see their parents being intimate or at the very least affectionate...which leads to a deeper intimacy.  I understand what couples mean when they say, "my husband/wife is my best friend".  There is a relationship of implicit trust.  So when I'm talking about my family issues or about girlfriends who have hurt my feelings, I know he'll hear me, challenge me to be okay, and lastly roll his eyes and lament about girls and their feelings....all without judgement.  I do love my husband as a person and I love being married to him.   THANK GOD FOR THE SACRED UNION AND MAY IT THRIVE EVEN IN THE MOST DIFFICULT OF TIMES.

It was warm enough today, 77 in December, to go back outside and run.  I dusted off the old jogger stroller and Grace and I hit the road.  We got a late start because we were just enjoying getting a slow start to the day.  I say "Grace, are you ready to put on some clothes?"  She looks at me with pouty eyes and says "No, I don't want to go to the Y".  Well, that's our place on a regular basis, and she usually asks me if we're going. So, I heard and honored that.  I then say "do you want to go to the lake for our exercise".  She says, and I chuckle as I write this, "In a little bit".  Where did this old child come from?  I know what you're thinking....her old momma.  

Watched a DVR episode of Oprah's Next Chapter with Bette Midler and Valerie Simpson of Ashford and Simpson.  In the latter half of the show, Oprah interviewed Simpson in the New York brownstone that she's lived in for over 30 years.  It was nice but modest, and in New York, I'm sure it would sell for a lot more today than what they paid for it back then.  What really struck me is how content she seemed in her little patio garden where she talked about her recently deceased husband.  She talked about missing him and having the rug pulled from under her when he died.  Her daughters joined her and they seemed cohesive and as content as any three women could be after losing a man they all loved dearly in their own way for as long as they each had.  I was moved by Ashford and Simpson's work together when he was alive and by her passion for him even in his absence.  SEE PARAGRAPH 1:o)

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

A State of Grace...

What is the dream?!  I've read and heard from several sources in the the past few weeks that you need to be true to the dream....name the dream....be consistent in your dream pursuits.  Now, the dream is not to be confused with a mere wish list item....For example....A Gucci handbag is on my wish list...the dream would be to have a Gucci handbag named after me because of my sense of style and fashion.   The wish list item is to be working again as a newscaster in a local television market.  The dream is to be an international household name as a marriage advocate and a Christian journalist who speaks God's truth to the masses in a way that's filled with love and grace.  GET IT?!  The dream needs to be that thing that you wish for beyond measure and work for consistently and pray for without ceasing because you believe it's your destiny.  THE DREAM = PURPOSE.

The Wesson's worshiped together as a family at church today.  We hadn't been to our church, St. Luke's Episcopal, in over a month because we've been traveling.  As my momma would say, God rest her soul, we've been running from pillar to post.  It's good to be back and settled and at home for a while.  The rigmarole takes its toll.  It's nice to be a part of a body of believers that lifts you up in prayer and encourages you and...misses you when you're not there.  THANKS BE TO GOD.

Don't know what to think about the Kansas City Chiefs player who killed his 22 year old girlfriend and then himself; or the fact that the team played today.  Life is, proverbially, for the living. 

I, and my little helper, wrapped some Christmas presents today.  Thank God for the GIFT OF JESUS.

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.

A State of Grace....

It's World AIDS Day...The number of cases continues to grow.  Many who live with the disease aren't able to afford the life sustaining medicines.  Some don't know they have it because they don't believe themselves to be at risk or just don't want to know their status (which is very different from, say....a Facebook status).  I light a candle and say a prayer for those infected and affected.

Four young African-American men who are/were student athletes at Hofstra University in New York, were arrested for stealing more than $20,000 in Apple products....from fellow students.  According to the report on CNN, they were afforded access into student dorm rooms and other areas because of their positions on the basketball team at the school.  While talking with Dale about this, I had so many questions about whether or not they could reason that if they held out for four years, their lives might change for the better.  I suggested that their immediate needs were being met as a result of their school situation.  Even so, Dale made the point that as athletes, they can't work so the things they 'wanted' for were probably missing.  Now, they face criminal charges, possible time in prison and may be marked for life as felons.  It's disheartening that they couldn't see or didn't care about the end game being more important than the short game.  Some lessons are, proverbially, learned the hard way.

Headed to Frankie Beverly and Maze tonight.  I HAVE NEVER SEEN THEM PERFORM, for as long as they have been performing.  We were gifted the VIP tickets, and a new and fast friend is Grace sitting.  Date night lives in a big way for this southern girl :o)

In spite of and because of the things in this life, I aim for a constant state of Grace...and it's not of myself...it's a gift from God.