YOU Are Beautiful, Because God Creates ONLY GOOD!!!

Hi, everyone!

Thinking about the latest topic of conversation for the day. 

I am reminded of my brother, who I truly miss, even though he's been gone since 1985.

Once we ended up in the south, he was mocked, and called "Spot," due to his beautifully, deep skin tone.  He was told he could be seen in the dark because of his glowing white teeth, and nothing else.  That expression made him quite sad, very often.  However, when I would see him, what I captured was an extremely intelligent young man, who was very gifted in various areas.  Whether basketball, karate, mathematics, or singing, he was a master.  My brother had the heart of royalty, treating everyone as he wanted to be treated, believing in what Christ said, while dying on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do!"

Needless to say, based upon the fact that I also personally understand what it feels like to experience having a darker shade throughout my life, I wanted to re-post this article that I wrote last year, testifying of the true inspiration I've received from famous"chocolate skin" individuals.  They continue to move in the gifts they've been given, with power and authority, regardless to what they had to endure. 

Know who you are, not by the outward traits, but what God has already ordained you to be, shining from within.

"I praise You, because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well!"  (Isaiah 139:16)

 One of my most favorite quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. states:

"I have a dream, that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character!"

You know, I have never understood how a person, having light complexion, though recognized as an individual of color, would be looked upon as someone of more perfection.  Throughout my life, many human beings, have placed those who were fair-skinned on a pedestal, even saying they were extraordinarily beautiful, while a more brown toned, for some deep-rooted reason, would be frowned upon.  

I am always reminded of "Beauty Is Only Skin Deep," a familiar quote, as well as a title of an old tune, recorded and released in 1966, by rhythm-and-blues group The Temptations:

"So in love, sad as could be, 'cause a pretty face got the best of me,
Suddenly, you came into my life, and gave it meaning and pure delight;
Now good looks I've learned to do without, For now I know what love's all about!
Beauty's only skin deep, yeah, yeah, yeah; Beauty's only skin deep, oh yeah!"

 
The first verse of the lyrics speak to how the innermost being of a person provided more insight, than mere physical attractiveness. Even though the guy became amazed by the outward physicality of a female he chose to bring into his space, he was a miserable soul, until he was introduced to the interior aesthetic of a woman with distinction and an altruistic heart.  The poetic stance reminds us of how imperative it is to recognize inward qualities that authenticate what's real, from imitation.  

It seems these days that the road appears to move in the direction of the "cookie-cutter," or "what everyone else is doing" mode, and many seem to fall in line with what they see with their eyes, instead of viewing beauty in its truest form - from the inside out.  

Meanwhile, there are those who question their identity, thinking that because they are of a certain hue or shape, they feel inferior.  In their minds they are unworthy, because there is a mass group who think it's okay to  berate someone's surface.  

I want to make note of some of the most prolific individuals of whom I have always had the highest regard, who helped me realize that my complexion or body width is secondary to what God has placed inside of my existence.  When I hear young girls speak of doubting the fact that they are just as amazing as anyone else, it baffles my mind to no end.  Truthfully speaking, regardless to what people say, whether to or around them, mockers should not have that much voice, persuading a child not to have a clue of who they really are, or where they're headed in life.   You can catch more bees with honey than with vinegar!  There are entirely too many hurting souls in the world, for us to continue ruining a youth's dreams before they have to chance to awaken. 

Nina Simone

I have always loved listening to artists who sustain depth and meaning.  Virtuosos with heart and soul.  Renowned artist Nina Simone always had a sense of consistency and forethought.  In my opinion, the lady was such an extremely talented performer, as well as a compassionate activist for civil rights, so much that her songs spoke volumes, and continue to do so today.  Some of the meaningful traits that stood out in her were the elements that her persona depicted - truth, heart and refinement; something I desired to exhibit in my own life.  Because she carried herself in such a way, she received honorable respect, and not because of her skin tone.  

Naomi Sims

When I was a youth, after growing up in NY, I had to spend some time in the south, and I was awakened to the conception most people had that lighter-shaded blacks were deemed supreme; however, brown, or even darker toned like myself, were considered unattractive.  Even light-skinned infants were categorized as being born more beautiful than chocolate babies.  It was so frustrating to me, so much that, at times, I felt as though I wasn't up to par  because my complexion was a deep shade of brown, not pale tan, cream or peach.  However, in 1969 I was first given a reason to become more impressed with myself, when a LIFE magazine cover represented class with distinction, using a perfect example of earthy tone.  Naomi Sims was the first African-American supermodel, and worthy of the title. 

Amazingly, she made tremendous strides, after being teased due to her height of 5'10" at age 13, overcoming ridicule during the civil rights movement, literally kicking in doors of segregation.  She was first featured on the cover of 1968 LADIES HOME JOURNAL magazine, as well as being chosen to provide a ground-breaking interview article, further expressing the theme of the decade, "Black IS Beautiful."  Ms. Sims was offered the starring role in the 1973 motion picture, "CLEOPATRA JONES."  However, due to many racial simplism of black portrayal, she chose not to participate.  Eventually, she followed her dreams, creating her own line of wigs, cosmetics and fragrances, comprised with women of color in mind.  Knowing this helped to make me feel more worthwhile, beginning to realize how beautiful I really am.  No one can tell me anything differently, and I have a great respect for Ms. Sims' accomplishments, her intelligence, as well as her total beauty.

Cicely Tyson

Born in NYC, Cicely Tyson, an Emmy-winning, Oscar-nominated actress, became a highly-demanded model, but after some time, decided against it, due to her not appreciating the feeling she was functioning "like a machine."  She decided that a career in acting would probably me more to her liking, and enrolled in acting school, after-which she appeared in off-Broadway stage derivatives.  What I appreciate about Ms. Tyson is how determined she was not to appear in any blaxploitation projects, stating, "I would rather be unemployed than act in blaxplotation films."  She stood her ground, no matter what.  She is one of the most thriving, astonishing, and underrated actors ever, but I always love listening to how powerful her voice is.  Ms. Tyson could have a small role with a cameo appearance, and still speak with such potent delivery.  Below is an excerpt of one of the memorable scenes with Ms. Tyson giving a riveting performance, from the popular, all-star cast  TV-movie, "WOMEN OF BREWSTER PLACE:"

 

See what I mean?  Powerful, dynamic, and thought-provoking!  That's Ms. Cicely Tyson!

India.Arie

As you can see, I am an avid lover of all things ART.  It administers an avenue for expressing yourself, giving a message that would allow others to feel free to laugh, cry, love, understand, and ponder.  When I heard the song "VIDEO" on the radio for the first time, while commuting to work, I thought to myself, "that is so in-depth, and meaningful!"  Little did I know that the young woman singing it, was new to the music world, yet so seasoned.  India.Arie is a magnificent devotee to her individual craft, so much that I thought she would win a Grammy award for her initial work of art.  To her, it's not about falling in line with the "cookie-cutter" image, but staying true to self, and that encourages me to continue knowing who I am, know what I'm here for, follow the direction set for me, and realize that it's never too late, as long as Our Sovereign Father gives me breath.

"I am black, but comely, O ye daughters of  Jerusalem, as the tents of Kedar, as the curtains of Solomon.  Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me..." 

(Song of Solomon 1:5-6a) 

As you read the verse above, you would think that being black or dark is insignificant, even inferior.  However, upon further review of the book of Solomon, you find that even when the young lady felt she was beneath others, Solomon saw royalty in her, and was compelled to declare his undying love to her.  HER - the way she was!  Even if she thought she was too dark to be gazed upon, the king, so full of wisdom, recognized the true beauty of the Shulamite woman, and was in awe of her.

We should always remind ourselves that we are incredible creations of God, realizing that He made only one of each of us, individually, for HIS purpose.  Regardless to the surroundings, whether derogatory things have been said by certain particulars, or antagonistic people, an unsure young girl or boy, or pre-teen, should not have to feel worthless because of their physical demeanor.  Whether that child is taller, darker, or even thicker, before she has a chance to start doubting who she is, we need to assure her, like the line from a recent movie, that she is "kind, smart, important!"  No child should feel like they have no clue why they are even living.  And we as adults, or parents, must become teachers at home, as well as being concerned about school grades, or athletic abilities.   

Exhort often to each daughter, niece, cousin, and friend, by telling them, as well as showing:

 
"YOU are Loved, YOU are Special, YOU are Beautiful! YOU are here for a PURPOSE!  Now, BE the BEST YOU that you are, and will become!  To thine own self, BE TRUE!"

Those of us who have become witnesses to how imperative it is to uplift young ones early on, should always let it be known how much they do matter, and there is a blueprint that God has already designed for each life.  After all, we are created in His image and likeness.  We should always be aware that the glow of brightness we carry will provide a sense of belonging, entitlement, and the outlook of being free "TO BE."  That will generate an amazing spirit of greatness that will cultivate an impression of true beauty in others.  

Be blessed, as you bless!

HAPPY FATHERHOOD: A Godly Calling!

"And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous-to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." (Luke 1:17) As the third Sunday in June approaches, my memories of my own father resonate throughout my whole being.  Even though he has been gone from us naturally since 1992, I continue to be reminded of his caring, yet strong persona, while visualizing his attributes in my own wonderful children.   The way Dad wanted to provide the best for his family, working 5-6 days weekly in the blue-collar arena, while still maintaining parental structure at home, keeping us together, was monumental. Mr. Jones, Brother Jones, or Mr. James (used as greetings by people from all walks of life), was a very seasoned individual, yet distinguished, teaching us to speak correct English at all times, as well as utilizing proper etiquette, in order to be able to enter any room with absolute decorum, and he chastised us whenever necessary, but never disregarded showing all of us fatherly love.  He had a strong dislike of the use of profanity, stating there is a dictionary full of meaningful words that can be used instead, which would assist us in supplying better responses in any situation. Growing up in NYC, our father believed that God had a plan for all of our lives, while trying to make sure we knew what the love of God was.  As far as building character in us, he saw the destiny of God in all of us very early in our lives, regularly providing worship experience outlets, studying God's Word, and the appreciation of singing praises to the Lord, especially since he sang with a quartet for years.  Dad knew the importance of instilling in us guidance, helping us to realize the invaluable growth of genuine artistic expression we would later desire to excel in.   In spite of the many mistakes I made in my life, they became strengthened lessons learned.  I am so thankful to the Lord that He provided insight to Dad, as he planted those seeds that continue to flourish in me, and my own children.  I sincerely miss that type of fathering he projected, but nevertheless was, and remains, a vital legacy in my life, to which I consider myself quite blessed, because of everything he taught us.    When I was able to raise my own children, it became imperative that, with the leading of God's help, I could plant the same fruitful seeds that my father sowed in us, training them up in the way they should go, and seeing them as they have become adults of loving consideration, and meaningful wisdom. The following is an excerpt of a writing I was fortunate enough to envision earlier, and thought it to be very appropriate for such a time as this!  Be blessed, everyone!  A GOOD FATHER, OR A SPIRITUALLY GODLY FATHER? In my opinion, one of our greatest problems today is that people are going into life, into ministry or leadership of some kind without ever having been mentored or fathered themselves.  I believe that the role of fathers today has been degraded in the public eye to the point that we have almost lost the vision for the critical role fathers play.   Appropriate, affectionate touch and affirmation, from a good father, who is a spiritual father, are probably the largest factors in building strong, personal spirits into our lives. Without the affirmation of our fathers, we will wander, looking for our identity in many other places, and perform for acceptance.   Here are some thoughts about good spiritual fathers: It is on our father's knee that we learn that we are the apple of his eye - AND God's eye.  We learn that we are a delight, a pleasure, and that we are desirable to be with.  He communicates our value as a contributing member of the family, the community, and the body of Christ.  Being received by him, gives us the confidence we need to live fully out of our true identity.  We have courage, based on what our Heavenly Father says about us, instead of performing to win the approval of everyone else.   We are not lured into sin with flattery, because our Father has affirmed our God-given purpose, gifting, talent and callings in life.  We are secure in bonded relationships, and able to trust God when Satan's cheap, easy counterfeits come along to lure us with empty promises. We are able to minister out of health and stability, that is based on God's truth.   If you have been blessed with such a Father, please let him know how fortunate you are.  If you are hurting as you read this, its not too late to ask God for a spiritual father (or mother), to re-parent you and love you, with God's agape love.  Ask God for discernment to know who has a fathering heart, so you will be blessed and loved to life (vs. rejected again).  ASK GOD TO BLESS YOU WITH A GOOD SPIRITUAL FATHER, TOO! You can pray for your own father or spiritual father, by loosing him from fleshly traits, and binding him to the heart of God, and to His character.  If you have been hurt by an uncaring church leader, ask God for a good father, who is a true spiritual father.  If you are afraid to choose one for yourself, the following comparison between a spiritual father, and someone who is just a Godly church leader, may help you to discern a true father and their motivations.  Some of these thoughts are taken from the book, "Mentoring and Fathering" by Schultz and Gaborit, and some from "Restoring the Christian Family" by John Sandford.  "GOOD SPIRITUAL FATHER" "FLESHLY FATHER" Takes his childhood wounds to Jesus for healing Takes his hurts out of the nearest person Takes his fleshly reactions to the cross Automatic reactions w/o leading of the Spirit Forgives others, God and himself Holds resentment, judgments, bitterness Takes responsibility for sins he sown Blames others for what he is reaping Honors and respects his authorities Undermines his own authority with dishonor Is flexible and led of the Holy Spirit Under fleshly inner vows in his own strength Believes the best,  believes in you Has bitter expectations that you will fail again Confesses the sins of his fathers Repeats the sins of his fathers and more Touch, time, gifts, help, on your side Loves you the way he wants to receive love Hears God, is in agreement with Mom Controls, dominates, competes, pouts Appreciates/respects the opposite sex Undermines feminine contributions Encourages you for your own good Flatters you and manipulates for his agenda Finds time to be available to you Is too busy to spend quality time Will bless you when you are led to leave Will cut you off if you are led to move on Prays for you without ceasing Will pray if you ask him Willingly imparts spiritual gifts and wisdom Doesn't want to lose (spiritual) advantage Sees potential gifts, talents & callings in you Only sees you as you are now Trusts you to step out (with room to fail) Will not release you for fear of your failure Isn't afraid to discipline or correct you Will either avoid correction or will over react Has a heart to restore the brokenhearted Withdraws from high maintenance children Will pay a debt they do not owe Will hold your debts over your head Will fellowship with other fathers Will hide from accountability to his peers Moves toward the current move of God Weds you to his beliefs, past moves  Is not threatened by your other relationships Tries to control who you hear and who you serve   Teaches you dependence on God also   Keeps you dependent on him   Teaches you Truth from God's Word   Teaches you his doctrinal bias   Has the heart of a true worshiper of God   "Attends" or sends you to a worship service   Is happy when you succeed more than he   Is threatened when you succeed more than he   Has the 'team' concept of service   Has a 'golfer caddy' idea of your service   Makes you feel comfortable / protected   Threatens to expose you or attack you   Helps, wanting nothing in return   Expects something for helping you   Willing to admit his weaknesses   Will not admit weakness or mistakes   Is interested in what you are doing   Only what he is doing / his vision   Is relationship oriented and sensitive   Is task oriented   Communicates well and listens well   Feels bothered and put upon by you   Hears God and leads by the Holy Spirit   Influences or controls for his own agenda