Christin Mowery

I haven’t posted in a while…a lot has happened. On October 21, 2011, my daughters, Rain and Alyssa, were hit by a car. Their best friend, Mia, was also hit. Rain was released from the hospital three days later with a brain bleed and a skull fracture. She has made a complete recovery. Just hours after Rain was released, Mia died and went home to be with the Lord. Alyssa spent 33 days in the ICU. She was transferred to a rehab facility three days ago. She has a long road ahead of her, but she is a fighter!

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If you would like to follow her progress, please follow us on Facebook under These 3 Angels. You can also visit our webpage at www.These3Angels.com.

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We appreciate everyone’s prayers for her complete recovery.

Guest Post by Allie Burke

Discouragement. She’s a nasty beast, ain’t she? (Oh, man, Christin is going to kill me for using ain’t on her blog.) (Seriously? What the heck, Allie? LOL)

It’s not just “bad reviews”. Really, what is a “bad review”, anyway? It really depends on your standards, as a Writer, doesn’t it? Recently, after twelve 5-star ratings, Emerald
Destiny received a rating that was not five stars. It was four.

I was devastated. A 4-star! Oh, no!! Wait. What? I resisted the urge to laugh at myself. Actually, no, I didn’t. I did laugh. I laughed because had I been in the same position I was in
five months before with Violet Midnight—my debut, had I received a 4-star rating I would have been thrilled. 4 stars! For MY book? Woohoo!

I guess things change.

Back then, just five months ago when I released Violet Midnight, I had a “special” mindset.

The thing is, I really wasn’t thinking about selling books.

(Laughs) I know, right?

I wasn’t. Not really. I just wanted to write. Sure, it would have been nice if people read those stories I wanted to tell. But, honestly. If one person bought Violet Midnight and liked it, it would have been worth it.

I didn’t know anybody. No Writers whatsoever. I wasn’t on Twitter. I was barely on Facebook. Goodreads—sure people had added my book to their “to-read” list, but who on earth was Allie Burke? Why should anybody read Violet Midnight and not… some well-known Author.

So that was the mindset. Not selling books. Not really. So did I? Sell books? Not really.

Discouraging? Heck, yes. Truthfully, I had no idea what I was doing.

Thank you, Twitter.

Oh, Twitter. You rock. Seriously.

I met some people. I met some really amazing people. Among those was the beautiful Christin Mowery. Nerdy Ruler of the BNFFs.

Yes, I just called her nerdy on her own blog. Don’t worry. She knows it. And she’s darn proud of it, too. Go ahead. Ask her. (Yep…I’m a nerd. Proud of it!)

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I’ve been so busy lately. Always tons to do! Sorry I haven’t posted in a while. I have been designing marketing materials, going OCD on planning, taking pictures, writing, playing the chauffeur and maid and cook and… Ahhh! Let’s just leave it at: I’ve been busy.

This is my daughter, Alyssa. We call her ‘Lyssa Lizard, because when she was a baby, she liked being on her tummy. Of course, she was a chubby, little baby…so, her belly would protrude on both sides. She looked just like a lizard, as she flailed her arms and legs.

Well, my little lizard is the youngest. Her feelings get hurt…alot. When she cries, I tell her, “Hushy, hushy, little puppy.” Did I mention that she loves puppies?

We even have a song that goes with it:

“Hushy, hushy, little puppy…we love you! Hushy, hushy, little puppy…we love you! Hushy, hushy, little puppy, hushy, hushy, little puppy, hushy, hushy, little puppy…we love you!”

We start singing that song and the tears dry up…she starts to mumble along…then, the smile comes…and she’s singing out loud. The tragedy is a distant memory. 

My lizard found out that I wrote a book for my oldest daughter when she was the same age. Can you imagine what happened next?

“Mommy? Will you write me a book, too?” Her gorgeous eyes wide. “A hushy, hushy, little puppy book?” Now, she bats those big brown eyes. “Puhleeease?”

There isn’t anything in this world that could have kept me from saying yes. “Of course I will write you a book…just as soon as I find a free moment.”

Every day she asks if the book is complete.

But, it’s not just one book anymore…it’s ten. Yes, you heard me. Ten.

I sat down with my kids (who all want their own books now…and, oh yeah, books for their cousins, too, because wouldn’t that be nice, Mommy?) and we had a brainstorming session. The little puppy now has nine animal friends…with their own cute stories…and sing-song titles.

Look out, Dr. Seuss…I’m about to get my rhyme on.

Wow…that’s powerful, isn’t it?

We are often distracted by the items that glitter – and the people who sparkle – the most.

We are desperate…searching for something to quench our thirst for happiness…so, we crawl toward that mirage, only to have it vanish before our very eyes, leaving behind an ever-increasing despair.

How many times have we chased after what we believed would make us happy, only to discover happiness still eluded us?

I’ve learned that when I determine to bring joy to another person’s life, I experience something amazing…I feel joy come and sit softly on my shoulder.

Have you considered making someone smile today? Be the light that brightens someone’s day and your life will also be illuminated.

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I’m going through some pretty big changes in my life, and, while in some ways it’s frightening, I’m excited at the promise my future holds…and, every day that passes, my excitement builds. I’m ready to fly.

“There are moments when one has to choose between living one’s own life, fully, entirely, completely – or dragging out some false, shallow, degrading existence that the world in its hypocrisy demands.”
— Oscar Wilde

I know this too well…I’ve come to that exact place…and I’m happy I made the right choice.

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OK…so, I took three of my children to Circus Circus Adventuredome. My ex-husband watched the two little ones. What exactly was my oldest doing today in my absence? LOL. I guess you’re never too young (at heart) to ride in a shopping cart.

I don’t climb into shopping carts, but I dance. Click on my picture to view the horrible truth.

I know. It was after midnight, I was slap-happy and heavily medicated…but, still…I dance.

What do you do to stay young (at heart)? Do you commandeer helpless shopping carts? Do you dance outside your SUV, in the pitch black, after your ex-husband sends you to the store for the a.m. Red Bull? Who am I kidding…do you dance everywhere, like I do?

What makes your day? Come on…tell us! We all want to know. 

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There are so many things that I am thankful for. It’s easy to get caught up in life and lose sight of what’s important.

I want to thank all of my family and friends for your support and encouragement. You give me the strength I need to write each new word upon the page.

I would also like to thank God. Without you, I would still be a lonely pillar, trying to support the weight of the world without any hope of relief. You saved me…lifted the burden from my shoulders…and freed me to focus on the dreams you placed within my heart.

I want to make you all proud. I want to write things that will transform people. At the very least, transport people…if only for a brief time. But, most of all, I want to remain thankful for all that I have.

Take a moment each day to reflect on what (or whom) you’re thankful for. It will change the way you view your life.

My three youngest children helped me design this tonight.

I love hearing their dreams, and I will always encourage them.

What were your childhood dreams? Who supported you? Who cheers for you now?

I’d like to hear your story.

Happy Mothers’ Day!

Today ROCKS!!! I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my good friend, Angeline Kace, selected me as one of five people to be awarded the Stylish Blogger Award.

Thanks, Angeline!!!

So, here’s how it works:

1. Thank and link the person who nominated you.
2. Share seven random facts about yourself.
3. Pass the award on to five new-found blogging buddies.
4. Contact the winners to congratulate them.

Random Fact #1:

Up until recently, I was afraid of lighters.

Imagine having six children and being afraid to light all those birthday candles…not very practical or convenient. And, candles are exactly the reason I found myself clutching a lighter in my sweaty (and shaky) palm. Alyssa wanted to make a wish. No, it wasn’t her birthday, which makes it even sweeter. My five-year-old wanted to clench her big brown eyes shut and, with the tiniest of breaths, she wanted to blow out the candle and make a wish.

What wish? I don’t know…and it doesn’t matter. I would gladly watch her repeat the wishing process for hours.

So, how did I do it? Well, my friend, Amber, laughed hysterically for a few minutes, and then she demonstrated how to light a lighter without burning myself or starting a fire. It was a tense moment, but I took a deep breath and faced my fears. I freaked out and dropped the lighter onto my shirt, which burst into flames, then I had to stop, drop and roll.

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“People are capable, at any time in their lives, of doing what they dream of.”
— Paulo Coelho

This is a powerful statement. At any given moment, you already possess everything you need. The only requirement is that you have a dream worth fighting for.

I guess I tricked you, there is no magic pill that will give you that dream, or the drive to turn that dream into reality. This is something that you are born with…a desire that will never die.

How strong is your determination to succeed?

So, you have a vision of what you want, but it seems like everything is getting in the way?

I understand. Been there, doing that.

The good news? Where there is determination, despite adversity, there is a way.

Do everything that it takes…learn your craft, support others, and believe in yourself. If you fall down a thousand times, get a wheelchair or a walker. No, I’m kidding.

Refuse to give up and you will find the path that leads to the destiny you desire.

Just look for me…we can travel this road together.

This feels a little awkward. I don’t know what to say to you. I guess I should start with an apology.

I’m sorry.

It must have felt like I didn’t love you…like I had forgotten about the special bond we share. I left you alone. For much too long.

Can I explain?

I’ve been busy. No, not the “I found other friends” busy, or the “You bore me” busy, or the “I want to break up with you, but I’m afraid how you’ll act, so I ignore you” busy.

I have been *wait for it* WRITING!!!

And it’s good. Real good. So good, in fact, I think I fell in love with my MC (but, that’s another story).

I’ve been feverishly scribbling outlines, character sketches, scenes…and then it hit me. Well, actually, it started with a small whisper…

“Your blog is barren.”

And then…

“You gave birth to ideas…breathed life into expired dreams…then left them alone.”

Finally…

“If you give up on your blog, you are giving up on yourself…and your friends.”

OMG…what have I done?! How could I have forsaken my own (brain)child?

I hope you will forgive me. Somewhere along the line, hidden amongst platform building and drafting a masterpiece, I lost my blog voice.

But, it’s back…with a vengeance. I won’t ever be silenced again. I promise.

I’ve missed you. I hope you missed me.

by Tymothy Longoria

Am I a writer?:  A rambing from one who aspires no more.

Well, that’s an easy question to answer. Right?  I mean I write, therefore I am a writ-er.

How do you define a writer?

Writer is defined-according to dictionary.com-as: a person who has written a particular text or a person who writes books, stories, or articles as a job or regular occupation.
Author, columnist, essayist, hack, littérateur, man of letters, novelist, penman, penny-a-liner (rare) penpusher, scribbler.

Hmm, I like littérateur and I am fond of man of letters, but “hack”? What gives? I digress.

According to the definition, a writer is one who writes regularly. Well, then yes. And yes, it does occupy me. Tons. But no, that doesn’t really make one a writer-not the way I mean it, that is.

So, then what? My writing? I am a full-time writer. Doesn’t that sound so glamorous? Full-time writer. Ahhh…when I think of it, it makes me proud. No, I don’t make tons of money doing it. Or even a little. On second thought I better rethink this whole thing.

There’s nothing I would rather do.

No. Wait. I LOVE doing it. There’s nothing I’d rather do. Honestly.

I write on my blog-yes, everybody and their sisterscousinsmothersfathers has one-but it’s meaningful to me. I’ve been trying my hand at poetry for years now. I’ve written song lyrics-I was in a band when I was younger-I’ve written a children’s picture book, initially written as a valentine for my wife.

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I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Tiffany King, author of Meant to Be (a YA paranormal romance). I read Meant to Be and thoroughly enjoyed it. It has a unique story line and interesting characters. I am impressed with Tiffany’s debut novel. I recommend you buy your copy right away.

Now on to the interview:

Q: When did you start writing? Who, or what, inspired you to write?
A: I started writing two years ago. I had always thought of writing a book, because I have loved reading since I was a child. The ideas have been there in my head for years, I was always just nervous about putting them on paper. My daughter was my biggest inspiration for Meant to Be. I wanted to give her a book that she could lose herself in.

Q: What is your writing ritual like?
A: My writing ritual was complete and utter madness, hehe. When I’m writing, I become a different person, almost like the “Tasmanian Devil.” The problem is that as much as I would love to be a full-time writer, I’m just not there yet. Of course, that’s the ultimate goal, but for now, I have work, school, and a family that demands attention too.

Q:  Who are your favorite authors?
A:  Oh, I love this question!! I love J.K Rowling and believe she is by far one of the best authors ever. She created a world that readers could not only envision, but also feel they were a part of. There are many other authors I like and I continue to discover new ones each every day.

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I recently became a Twitter fiend. I always believed that Twitter was whack, but it turns out, it’s just because I didn’t know anything about it. I thought it was a bunch of people tweeting their every minute move and emotion. I had no idea that it is an amazing place for writers and entrepreneurs.

I am getting to know a whole community of writers that are spread throughout the world…and they’re all wonderful people. It is inspiring to hear their stories, and everyone is so positive and encouraging. It’s a new experience for me.

You see, I have always been the “different” one. Not that people didn’t like me, they did. They just didn’t understand me. I am a hardcore writer and entrepreneur, and I have been since childhood.

I opened my first business at 5 years old…selling golf balls and lemonade (we lived on a golf course). I started writing around 9 years old. The other kids wanted to talk about Barbies, but I was drafting business plans and writing poetry.

Here I am…all grown up…and I finally find people who “get” me. I’ve never felt happier. Thank you, Twitter. I think I love you.

@ChristinMowery

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I have been writing non-stop for the past week. It is a tremendous challenge and I love it. Every step I take, the closer I get to attaining my goals, the more and more overjoyed I become. 

I discovered an employment listing for a magazine reporter position that I am going to apply for. I feel that my personality would fit right in…dedicated and spunky.

I can only imagine how I will feel seeing my name written beside the other staff writers’ names. It will be wonderful to see my by-line consistently displayed to the world. I swear…I’m gonna cut out every clip.

Of course, this is all God-willing. I know that if they meet me, they will love me. I will certainly get the position. I just hope it’s the path I am destined to walk.

It sure seems like a beautiful road.

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I just learned that somebody I know was found dead in his car. The news reports say he was missing for a few weeks; his body was starting to decompose. They don’t know the cause of death, so they are performing an autopsy.

I’m in a state of shock. I keep thinking about him; he was such a nice guy. He just helped us move into our new house. It wasn’t that long ago that I last saw him. Now he’s gone.

He was a husband and a father to three children. He was someone’s son. He was a brother. He was a friend. The news doesn’t mention anything about that.

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There are millions of people who are without adequate food, drinking water or electricity following Friday’s devastating 9.0 earthquake and a tsunami that swept boats, cars, buildings and tons of debris miles inland in Japan.

The death tolls continue to rise (estimated at over 10,000), and thousands are still missing and feared dead. Now, officials say a second nuclear meltdown is likely under way in Japan, after a reactor exploded on Saturday. There are 22 confirmed cases of radiation poisoning after the first nuclear reactor explosion.

Please keep the people of Japan in your prayers and give thanks that you are safe and sound tonight.

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I read an interesting article today about prohibiting anonymous comments on the internet. You can read it here.

I can understand both sides of the argument. 

I find it offensive that people hide behind an anonymous commenting system and turn into racist, ignorant bigots. I have read the most disturbing, evil comments on tragic stories. They say despicable things, all to infuriate and insult others. I am certain they wouldn’t leave these comments if their real names were displayed. In this situation, I wish that everyone had to reveal their true identities.

On the other hand, there are instances where I can understand someone wouldn’t want to be identified for fear of retribution or embarrassment. I would never want a rape victim who feels compelled to leave a comment about her experience, or wants to leave an encouraging remark, to be required to share her name. There are people living in countries where there is no freedom of speech. Can we expect them to attach their name to comments that may put them in prison or jeopardize their life?

I remember, growing up, my mother told me, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all.” This world would be a much better place if we all lived by this principle.

If you have a dirty mouth, clean it up. If you have a foul soul, it’s gonna take a whole lot more effort. One day, we will all have to answer for our words and actions…including the anonymous ones.

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The editor contacted me and they purchased my article! I didn’t expect to hear back until after the 14th, so this is exciting. I am one step closer to realizing my dreams. Have you made any progress? I’d like to know. 

I wanted to run something by you:

If you had enough poems to publish a book of poetry, would you publish a poetry e-book? Or, would you wait until after your first or second novel was published?

I have a lot of poems, more than enough to publish a book, and I am considering releasing them as an e-book on Barnes and Noble, Borders, Amazon and a few other sites.

I know that poetry is a hard market, one that is just starting to expand into e-book format. I would love to know what you think. Do you read e-books? Would you read poetry on your e-reader? Would you publish the poetry or the novel first?

Just so that you know, most of my poetry deals with hard-hitting, emotional situations. It is not happy, feel-good poetry. It would appeal to others who were going through similar situations, or those who were recovering from betrayal and heartache. I also have some Christian, inspirational poems. I am contemplating a “to Hell and Back” theme, but I am open to other suggestions.

I look forward to your input.

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I’m proud of myself.

I’ve been outlining various articles that I am going to write, and I have even started doing the research, but they aren’t complete yet. This is something I need to keep an eye on, because I have that issue. You know, the p-word. Procrastination.

These articles aren’t why I am proud, though. I accepted a small writing assignment that had a very short deadline.

And, I did it!

I completed the assignment and turned it in…on time. It can take up to a week to hear back from the editor, but that isn’t the point.

I’m just so happy. It’s one step closer to realizing my dreams.

I also began a 90-day novel challenge. I’m really looking forward to the structure.  I think that’s what I need, something to be accountable to, a guideline to follow.

Otherwise, I find that most of my day is very unproductive. I think I must set records for refreshing my Networked Blogs and Facebook pages. I go OCD on research. For instance, I now know of nearly all the online writing opportunities. And what other writers have to say about those sites. And what other writers write on those sites. And what other writers make on those sites.

Why? Why must I know ALL of this?

It would be refreshing to just write, without all of the worries and distractions. So, I’m making a change. Tomorrow, I am going to sit down and decide which writing opportunities I want to pursue. I am also going to set a schedule. Yes, I said it. A schedule. I know, my heart is galloping in my chest, too, but it needs to be done.

Otherwise, I won’t reach my highest potential, will I? My novel will never be published. That can’t happen.

Perhaps you have some things you need to phase out, or at least seriously reduce the time you spend on them? Maybe you are a research junkie like I am? We need to kick the addiction. It’s a nasty, foul habit that will suck the life out of us. OK, maybe it just steals our time, but that’s bad enough.

I don’t know about you, but I’m going cold turkey. I have to get my life straight. I live in Las Vegas. There has to be a support group for this, right?

It’s not you, Google. It’s me. I have abused you. Used you. But, I promise to cut back. I will only contact you when it’s necessary. Yes, I know this now…not everything is necessary.

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My children are taking mixed martial arts lessons at the Tapout Gym (think UFC). They have no reservations about punching, kicking or choking their siblings. When they are matched together, they fly across the ring and attack like rabid pit bulls.

Yet, when they are paired with another child, they really hold back. It is as if they are scared, which is strange, because they shouldn’t be. Their siblings are years older and much tougher.

I watch them back step around the ring, then timidly advance, only to retreat again.

The trainer assures me this is normal; he sees many children experience the same hesitation. They will grow more confident when fighting others. It won’t take long.

Sometimes, the things we face look daunting and much larger than they really are. We have dealt with much worse, but our confidence falters. We have what it takes, we just have to believe it, and when we do…watch out, because nothing can stand in our way.

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I’m sitting in the car with my oldest daughter, Jasmine, and “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s comes on. It’s a catchy, happy little song about being in love. There’s a part that says:

“…She’s got eyes, deep blue like the sea,

that roll back when she’s laughing at me…”

I’ve heard it dozens of times, but today it hit me…that’s ugly. Really ugly. I mean, try it. Tell someone to laugh and roll their eyes back into their head at the same time. It’s scary.

Here he is talking about how much he loves her, and this is obviously an endearing quality to him, but all I can say is: I’d break up with you.

I mean, if you’re rolling your eyes into the back of your head when you laugh, there are only a few explanations:

• You’re possessed (I need to run…now)
• You’re trying to look at your own brain (weird)
• You are very uncoordinated and cannot do two things at once (like laugh and look straight ahead)

Whatever the reason, it doesn’t matter, it’s still unattractive.

Jasmine and I spent the next five minutes laughing in the most deranged and hideous ways imaginable. 

I forgot to mention that we were waiting in front of a park. A busy park, full of mothers who, I am certain, were taking extra precautions to ensure their childrens’ safety. After all, there were two psychos laughing maniacally with their eyes rolled back into their heads.

No one thought it was endearing; there were no famous singers who were in love with us. We were just ugly.

Do you take yourself too serious, or can you relax and have fun? Laughter is like medicine to the soul. Have you had your dose today?

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I found an interesting site today. It is the 6S Social Network. Writers post only six sentences, with the ultimate goal being to write something powerful, evocative and entertaining within those confines.

There are various interpretations of the limitation, though. For instance, there are writers who write profound passages in six succinct sentences. There are also the more liberal representations; the sentences that stretch across the page, line after line, connected by multiple commas, semi-colons, colons and ellipsis.

You can visit the site at http://sixsentences.ning.com/. Let me know what you think.

I am challenging myself to write six sentences every day (not including my blog posts, articles or novel). It’s an exercise that will further hone my skills, so I am looking forward to it.

Perhaps you would like to join me?

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I am consumed with a burning desire to liberate the innumerable tales contained within the labyrinth of my mind. 

I crave the heady zest of autonomy, where no other can exert their influence over the reality I create. Like a potter molds clay, I form each character with the tenderest of touch, until I have attained perfection…with all of its unique and intended flaws. 

I watch as their paths collide; I marvel as they grow through tribulations and triumphs into complex beings.

I linger at the fringes of their psyche, transcribing the tidal waves of emotions and thoughts that flow and ebb.

For the moment, I am transported to a world that I conceived; one that is growing and maturing at an incredible speed. Soon, it will be delivered, wrapped between two covers, ready to greet the world.

Are you ready?

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I know procrastination all too well. Does the following sound familiar to you?

I procrastinate. It is what I excel at; I know this. There is no trying, nor fear of failure; it is just something I do. Or, rather, some things I do not do. For example, writing. I know I can write. I know that if I write I will get better. I know it is my dream. But, somehow, procrastination keeps it a dream, a far off hope for one day, not a success, but also, not a failure.

For, you see, no risk equals no gain, but also no pain. So, while I am busy “preparing” to write, or “planning” what I will write, the days pass me by, until I wake up and realize I haven’t written anything I planned yet! So, I will sit down and plan some more.

This time I will be more diligent.

This time will be different.

This time I will pick a plot that interests me more.

This time I will stay focused.

But, all the while, I am still only doing what I have always done…nothing.

For you, writing might not be your dream. Perhaps you like to paint? Or, maybe you sing like an angel, and you want to entertain the world? Do you fantasize about designing your own clothing label? Whatever it may be, what is stopping you?

Have you spent years daydreaming about a future that you haven’t even taken a step toward? Do things keep getting in the way? If so, I understand. I was there.

The realization of your dreams will not materialize on its own. Planning can only go so far. Eventually, you must take action, or your dreams will stagnate. After a while, you may question your ability to attain your goals.

Afraid you don’t know the way? That’s okay. Find a mentor. SCORE has retired professionals who counsel aspiring entrepreneurs for free. They have a vast amount of resources available. You can learn more at http://www.score.org.

Even baby steps will take you where you want to go, but you have to start moving.

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Dreams carried me,

So high up,

On feathered wings,

That glide

And dip,

Then soar.

‘Til the wind

Betrayed me.

Inhaled deeply,

Holding its breath.

Watching,

As I tumbled

And rolled.

Plummeting

Toward reality,

The dismal truth.

So low now,

Having fallen

From such lofty places.

Thank God I am resilient. Nothing will keep me down! I will pursue my dreams, despite any interference. There is no way that I can fail, because I will never give up.

Will you be faithful to your dreams, conquering your fears and triumphing over trials and tribulations? I hope so. I’d really like to meet you at the top.

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After church, I had lunch with my dad and grandma. We went to Taco Bell. Nothing fancy, but it was about spending time together. We don’t do that often enough.

That’s unfortunate, because time doesn’t pause during our hectic moments. It races on ahead of us. Until one day, we look up and wonder where it has all gone.

If we are fortunate, it isn’t too late to rearrange our priorities, so that we can enjoy our loved ones’ company before they are gone…before we are left with regrets.

I miss my grandfathers. I didn’t spend enough time with them. I never considered reality, that tomorrow is not assured to anyone. I was shocked when they died less than a month apart. I thought I still had time. I didn’t.

I wish I could say that I learned my lesson at 18, and that I didn’t neglect spending time with my family and friends throughout the past 13 years. I wish the abyss of responsibilities and over-commitments hadn’t swallowed me up. Wishing won’t alter the truth.

The good news? It’s not too late. I recently underwent a transformation.

I now communicate with my mom several times a week, instead of once every few months. I reach out to relatives and friends, who at one time didn’t risk entertaining any hope of receiving contact from me. I have lunch with my grandma and dad, after we attend church together, and I treasure each moment we are blessed to share.

I don’t want my family to question my feelings for them. I express my love to each of my children dozens of times per day. I tell others every time we meet or talk.

What if there wasn’t another opportunity to convey how we feel?

The distractions of life frequently strain relationships. Do your loved ones know, without a doubt, that you love and cherish them? Are you building lasting memories, or will you be left with tremendous regrets?

If you’re uncertain, don’t condemn yourself. Pick up the phone, write a letter, schedule a visit. Just let them know you care.

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“Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, handsome, talented, and fabulous?

Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t
feel insecure around you.

We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some; it is in everyone. And, as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

- Marianne Williamson, co-leader of the United States Department of Peace movement
(quote often wrongly attributed to Nelson Mandela).

We are not inadequate, but powerful beyond measure.  Isn’t that a liberating thought? Give yourself permission to shine bright. You never know who’s watching, and whose life may be transformed as a result.

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Recently, I took my oldest daughter, Jasmine, to First Friday in the art district. On the way, I drove through one of Las Vegas’ ghettos. Prostitutes, addicts, homeless men and women all walked the streets, each one resigned to their sorrowful and tragic existence. I was profoundly affected.

For the next three days, I was haunted by imaginings of their daily sufferings. They are the people that our society prefers not to contemplate. They are the lost and forgotten.

I lay awake one night, desperately wanting to share their stories, and a short film was drafted in my head. It poured onto the pages of my notebook the following morning, and I was overcome with emotion. I have the ability to give voice to those who are routinely ignored and despised. The men, women and children who are misunderstood and desperate for someone, anyone, to care.

Well, I care. We will be shooting this film within the next few months, once casting is complete.

God gave me a talent…and this is the greatest utilization of that talent I can imagine.  

Embrace inspiration, however random (and persistent) it may be. You just may change someone’s life.

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