S.P.I.R.I.T

S.P.I.R.I.T. "Stay'c and Marcia's Birthday outing

2011-10-12T21:53:00.019-04:00

LOGO

2011-10-12T11:55:00.005-04:00

Hello Ladies,

Here's a look at the new logo.

WHO WROTE THE BIBLE?

2010-07-28T21:39:00.003-04:00

Have you ever asked yourself...who wrote the bible? Take a look at the videos on youtube from the History Channel. It's 12 videos....very interesting.

click the link to begin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8PQ6_0gJUE

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

DIVERSION IS THE PRIMARY STRATEGY

2010-07-04T10:49:00.002-04:00

Listen to this interview with Professor Griff of Public Enemy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeREN_rwnVA&feature=related

OPEN SECRETS

2010-07-04T10:33:00.003-04:00

OpenSecrets.org is your nonpartisan guide to money’s influence on U.S. elections and public policy. Whether you’re a voter, journalist, activist, student or interested citizen, use this free site to shine light on your government. Count cash and make change.

Click this link to find out more information.

http://www.opensecrets.org/

NUMBER 11 and OBAMA the 44th PRESIDENT TRANSFORMATION

2010-07-04T00:16:00.001-04:00

My sisters please take a look at this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B89Udwm4KeE

NO LOVE LIKE A MOTHER'S LOVE

2010-05-02T22:20:00.003-04:00

No Love like a Mother's Love

There is no love, like a mother's love,

no stronger bond on earth...

like the precious bond that comes from God,

to a mother,

when she gives birth.

A mother's love is forever strong,

never changing for all time...

and when her children need her most,

a mother's love will shine.

God bless these special mothers,

God bless them every one...

for all the tears and heartache,

and for the special work they've done.

When her days on earth are over,

a mother's love lives on...

through many generations,

with God's blessings on each one.

Be thankful for our mothers,

for they love with a higher love...

from the power God has given,

and the strength from up above.

By: Jill

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
I MISS YOU MOM!!

Stay'c birthday dinner at Maggiano's

2010-04-18T12:24:00.002-04:00

Student Loan Reform...what it means to students!

2010-03-30T19:28:00.001-04:00

Mr. Obama called it “one of the most significant investments in higher education since the G.I. Bill,” speaking at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria.

But just how much will reform affect the average student?

The legislation makes substantial changes in the way students get money for college, but those provisions might not necessarily be tangible for students in the immediate future.
That’s because the biggest change is in who administers student loans. Instead of private banks issuing loans guaranteed by the government, the government will now become the originator of the loan.

“That’s very important for students, but it isn’t going to be very visible for them,” says Sandy Baum, an independent policy analyst for the College Board, a New York-based nonprofit that tracks and promotes college attendance.

The change will eliminate private banks as “middlemen” in the loan process and will save the US government about $68 billion dollars over 11 years, according to the White House.
But for students, the loans will look largely the same – same terms, same fees, same interest rates.

The benefits to students will mostly be in the lending process, says Mark Kantrowitz, publisher of FinAid.org and FastWeb.com, which offer information on scholarships and student aid.
Students could see a “smoother origination process,” says Mr. Kantrowitz, because instead of shopping for a private lender, they’ll simply go to their school’s financial aid office. And because the government has contracted four of the largest lenders to service the loans, that part might go more smoothly, too.

But financially, the bottom line will look the same for students – for now.
Eventually, students with federal loans will qualify for better repayment terms. Part of the legislation signed today also improves repayment terms first enacted last summer. Loan payments will be capped at 10 percent of a student’s disposable income (it’s currently 15 percent) and any debt remaining after 20 years will be forgiven (the current threshold is 25). For public servants – including teachers, nurses, or members of the armed forces – that cap is 10 years.

But, those repayment terms are only applicable for loans signed after July 1, 2014, and will not be retroactive, nor do they apply to private loans. With the new legislation, students will also see increased support from Pell Grants, which provide need-based grants to low-income students.
In contrast to who issues their student loans, students are “intensely aware” of the amount of funding offered by a Pell Grant, says Ms. Baum.

But the substantial impact of the new funds will be in preserving recent increases to the Pell Grant from the Recovery Act. With an increasing number of students qualifying for the grants because of economic hardship in their families, “it would not have been possible to maintain [Pell Grants] at the current level” without this legislation, says Baum. “That money had to come from somewhere.” Still, Kantrowitz calls scheduled Pell Grant increases “anemic.”
“Over 10 years, the maximum Pell Grant is not going to keep up with inflation, let alone college tuition inflation,” he says.
---

CAREER

2010-03-28T13:03:00.003-04:00

To prepare for a career, people go to college and take courses to help prepare them for their chosen field of work. Once in a career however, their knowledge level remains stagnant, it doesn't go any higher. They do not have time to go back to school unless they can afford to be unemployed while attending school. This translates to knowledge deprivation.

An individual makes money through employment. Money is not the source of freedom, KNOWLEDGE is. Money only gives you an ILLUSION of freedom. An illusion isn't real. More emphasis in society is place on money and materialism then knowledge, for reasons that should be obvious.

Knowledge deprivation is deliberate. If you want to keep control of a people, you must keep them ignorant and unaware. Those who have power know KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. That is why knowledge deprivation exists in society.

WAKE UP PEOPLE!!

10 Ways The New Healthcare Bill May Affect You

2010-03-28T12:46:00.004-04:00

Here are 10 things you need to know about how the new law may affect you:

1. Your Kids are Covered
Starting this year, if you have an adult child who cannot get health insurance from his or her employer and is to some degree dependent on you financially, your child can stay on your insurance policy until he or she is 26 years old. Currently, many insurance companies do not allow adult children to remain on their parents' plan once they reach 19 or leave school.

2. You Can't be Dropped
Starting this fall, your health insurance company will no longer be allowed to "drop" you (cancel your policy) if you get sick. In 2009, "rescission" was revealed to be a relatively common cost-cutting practice by several insurance companies. The practice proved to be common enough to spur several lawsuits; for example, in 2008 and 2009, California's largest insurers were made to pay out more than $19 million in fines for dropping policyholders who fell ill.

3. You Can't be Denied Insurance
Starting this year your child (or children) cannot be denied coverage simply because they have a pre-existing health condition. Health insurance companies will also be barred from denying adults applying for coverage if they have a pre-existing condition, but not until 2014.

4. You Can Spend What You Need To
Prior to the new law, health insurance companies set a maximum limit on the monetary amount of benefits that a policyholder could receive. This meant that those who developed expensive or long-lasting medical conditions could run out of coverage. Starting this year, companies will be barred from instituting caps on coverage.

5. You Don't Have to Wait
If you currently have pre-existing conditions that have prevented you from being able to qualify for health insurance for at least six months you will have coverage options before 2014. Starting this fall, you will be able to purchase insurance through a state-run "high-risk pool", which will cap your personal out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare. You will not be required to pay more than $5,950 of your own money for medical expenses; families will not have to pay any more than $11,900.

6. You Must be Insured
Under the new law starting in 2014, you will have to purchase health insurance or risk being fined. If your employer does not offer health insurance as a benefit or if you do not earn enough money to purchase a plan, you may get assistance from the government. The fines for not purchasing insurance will be levied according to a sliding scale based on income. Starting in 2014, the lowest fine would be $95 or 1% of a person's income (whichever is greater) and then increase to a high of $695 or 2.5% of an individual's taxable income by 2016. There will be a maximum cap on fines.

7. You'll Have More Options
Starting in 2014 (when you will be required by law to have health insurance), states will operate new insurance marketplaces - called "exchanges" - that will provide you with more options for buying an individual policy if you can't get, or afford, insurance from your workplace and you earn too much income to qualify for Medicaid. In addition, millions of low- and middle-income families (earning up to $88,200 annually) will be able to qualify for financial assistance from the federal government to purchase insurance through their state exchange.

8. Flexible Spending Accounts Will Become Less Flexible
Three years from now, flexible spending accounts (FSAs) will have lower contribution limits - meaning you won't be able to have as much money deducted from your paycheck pre-tax and deposited into an FSA for medical expenses as is currently allowed. The new maximum amount allowed will be $2,500. In addition, fewer expenses will qualify for FSA spending. For example, you will no longer be able to use your FSA to help defray the cost of over-the-counter drugs.

9. If You Earn More, You'll Pay More
Starting in 2018, if your combined family income exceeds $250,000 you are going to be taking less money home each pay period. That's because you will have more money deducted from your paycheck to go toward increased Medicare payroll taxes. In addition to higher payroll taxes you will also have to pay 3.8% tax on any unearned income, which is currently tax-exempt.

10. Medicare May Cover More or Less of Your Expenses
Starting this year, if Medicare is your primary form of health insurance you will no longer have to pay for preventive care such as an annual physical, screenings for treatable conditions or routine laboratory work. In addition, you will get a $250 check from the federal government to help pay for prescription drugs currently not covered as a result of the Medicare Part D "doughnut hole".

However, if you are a high-income individual or couple (making more than $85,000 individually or $170,000 jointly), your prescription drug subsidy will be reduced. In addition, if you are one of the more than 10 million people currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan you may be facing higher premiums because your insurance company's subsidy from the federal government is going to be dramatically reduced.

Conclusion
Over the next few months you will most likely receive information in the mail from your health insurance company about how the newly signed law will affect your coverage. Read the correspondence carefully and don't hesitate to ask questions about your policy; there may be new, more affordable options for you down the road.

TAKE A STAND FOR CIVILTY!

2010-03-23T10:23:00.000-04:00

Take a Stand for Civilty! Stand with Representatives Cleaver, Lewis, and Frank against the racial slurs and personal attacks during political discourse. Click the link to sign the petition. http://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/2446/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=2423

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

EXTRA MONEY

2010-03-22T12:42:00.001-04:00

Good Morning Everyone,

I would like for you to go on my website to see how you can make some extra money. It is a easy way to make money, really it is, it only takes a few minutes to check it out. www.cashinhand.narcthatcar.com let me know what you think. I know I need some extra income, and I felt like you could use some too... :-)

H. Donelle Jones

House Democrats Approves Health-care Reform Bill

2010-03-22T11:07:00.004-04:00

What is wrong with some people in this country? Many are outraged because of health-care in which some Americans can't afford. You would have thought health-care was a civil rights issue. What happen to morals? In this country there is about 31 million uninsured individuals and many of their incomes are lower than the poverty line.

Others look at this country as the land of freedom. Many come here for bigger and better opportunities. This country is suppose to set good examples, but once again our behavior has shown this country to be "an ass" because of stupidity regarding helping one another.

To read more about the Democrats approving Health-care Reform Bill, click the link below.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20100322/hl_hsn/housedemocratsapprovehealthcarereformbill

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

CENSUS 2010

2010-03-17T21:14:00.002-04:00

Many people are upset because of the word "Negro" on the Census 2010. Why is the word listed on the form?

As I look upon this country - the past, present, and future. one could say that things have changed. Yes, blacks and whites can eat in the same restaurants, drink out of the same water fountain, and sit among each other in the classroom, and most of all we have a black president. Let's take a look at this black president. I mean really "where did he come from?" Many of us didn't even know he existed, but I'm not going to discuss our president. My focus is the word "negro" on the Census 2010.

The reason why this word is on the Census is because of the time a person was born. For example, on the birth certificate of many elderly people the race states "negro." On my birth certificate it states "black," and on many children born today it states "African American."

Now, if you have an elderly person staying in a household by themselves, they would most likely be familiar with the term "negro" because during their time that was the word being used. Now, I'm familiar with black, Afro American, and African American because these terms has been used during my time. So, it's all about what a person identifies him/herself with. Personally, I am of only one race and that's the human race. The question and concerns one should have is "Is the Census really being used the way it's advertised?" NO?

People we need to focus on the real issues. The only thing that's really changing is the technology. Minorities are still slaves, just upgraded. Whether you identify with negro, black, Afro American, or African American it doesn't matter because the terms are just upgraded terms in order to be politically correct, meaning let's shut these "ni**as" up! If you noticed the term used for whites (Caucasian) hasn't changed.

So, the main focus should be you...KNOW WHO YOU ARE!

Let us focus on what really matters, and not just a word!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

Decatur City School Teachers Face Three Furlough Days

2010-03-17T21:06:00.001-04:00

Decatur city schools are looking to furlough employees for three days next school year to help balance the budget. That includes the district’s 250 teachers, along with all administrators, custodians and secretaries, Finance Director Theresa Link said.
The furloughs mean about a 2 percent reduction for most staff, Superintendent Phyllis Edwards said. “I believe we’re taking the least destructive measures we can take,” Edwards told about 50 parents and teachers on Wednesday.

Paraprofessionals and school nutrition workers will not be furloughed.
The superintendent is also asking the school board to freeze salaries for employees.
The three furlough days will save the district about $345,000 in the fiscal year 2011 budget, which is $36.8 million.

Teachers have one furlough day this school year, but did receive a pay raise.
The cuts are necessary because of a decline of about $1.7 million in revenue for the 2,800-student district. Most of that is in state funding.

Employees also are likely to lose the money the district contributes toward their dental and life insurance, which is $6 per pay period. The cuts to benefits will save the district about $70,000.
“I’m trying to not cut programs or staff,” Edwards said. “Let’s try to absorb it across the board. There are no raises for me, no raises for anybody.”

The board is scheduled to vote on the proposed cuts Thursday night so contracts can be issued to teachers next week. The board will vote on the final budget in May.
Julie Hotchkiss, a mother of two Decatur High students, said she would like to see the board consider raising the millage rate. “I’m disturbed by the inability of any elected officials to even put it on the table,” said Hotchkiss, a Decatur resident for 20 years. “Raising taxes is a bit more progressive than taking it out of the pockets of the lower paid.”

The board would have to raise Decatur’s property taxes by .4 mills to eliminate the teacher furloughs, which would mean about an extra $150 a year for Hotchkiss’ family.

http://www.ajc.com/news/dekalb/decatur-teachers-face-three-378787.html

Proposed School Closures Divide DeKalb

2010-03-17T21:00:00.003-04:00

DeKalb County parents quickly drew battle lines Tuesday night, upset that schools being considered for closure under the county's budget crunch are in primarily poor, African-American neighborhoods.

A standing-room only crowd that filled a school cafeteria listened to the 20-member Citizens Planning Task Force, which is charged with recommending four elementary schools to be closed at the end of the school year.

The closures are to be based on low enrollments and are needed to help with an $88-million deficit, school officials said.

Late Monday, school administrators gave the task force two scenarios that included a total of seven target schools, all of which are in the south end of the county. Those schools include: Sky Haven, Gresham Park, Kelley Lake, Toney, Meadowview, Midway and Peachcrest.

In Tuesday's meeting at the William Bradley Bryant Technology Center in Decatur, task force members said they were disappointed that they were not charged with choosing the schools on the list.

“No one on this panel had anything to do with the schools on there. It started with staff," task force member Bruce McMillian said. "I’m not going to let this panel be a scapegoat or whatever you want to call it for these tough decisions.

"The pocket that has been targeted by the school system is an area that, I feel, is an area of least resistance. The affluent areas in the county, the ones with the higher tax base, none of those are being targeted.”

The meeting at times grew loud and officials threatened to have one shouting father removed. Other residents became angry that not everyone could speak. Some alleged racism, referencing the district’s troubled history.

“I can understand you wanting to close some of the schools and help balance the budget. But you’re closing three schools around me,” said Cora Cooper, whose children went to Gresham Park and whose grandchildren currently go there. “That means the kids will have to go out of the neighborhood to get a quality education, just like they did in the 70s.”

Task force member Darrell Jennings Sr. said he plans to look at the enrollment of all 83 elementary schools before making any decision. The choice should be made based on how the closures will impact the community in terms of social justice, economic development and property values, he said. “I just object to all these schools being closed in my backyard,” he said. “They gave us a list of 23 schools and 19 of those schools are in south DeKalb.”

But with less than a month left before a recommendation is due, the task force doesn’t have time to start with a blank slate, said Robert Moseley, the district’s deputy chief superintendent of operations. “Is it tight? It is very tight. Is it the best and ideal way to do it? No, but we have an urgent budget deficit,” he told the task force. “We’re looking at not just closing schools, but we’re looking under every rock to close that deficit.”

Moseley said state funding favors schools with at least 450 students.
School officials have said closing the four schools will save DeKalb about $2.35 million, but they have not provided financial figures for each individual school.

Task Force member Tracie Scott said she wouldn’t make a recommendation until she sees those numbers. “I don’t want to be part of helping the school system make another bad decision for our children,” she said. “If we’re going to disrupt people’s communities, I think we need to be able to say this is going to be better for your child.”

For Hanifah Rios, she can’t think of any way closing her two children’s school would benefit their education. Rios said her children have flourished in the Montessori program at Midway Elementary and she fears her children will suffer if they have to be pulled from the program, since no other schools in south DeKalb have the program. “I thought I could never be able to afford Montessori,” she said. “Because of my schedule, I can’t drive to the north side to get them what they need.”

The task force will meet again March 16 and is expected to have a recommendation by mid-April. The school board will vote on the final closures.

http://www.ajc.com/news/dekalb/?cxntlid=linkr

MARCH OF DIMES/MARCH FOR BABIES

2010-03-15T21:41:00.002-04:00

Hello All,

March of Dimes is having a March for Babies on April 24, 2010. I was thinking that maybe we could submit a team. The march is 4.5 miles. I figure this would give us a chance to get involved in the community and also get some exercise. Let me know what you all think.

Love Is In The Air!!!

RECOVERING FROM A HYSTERECTOMY

2010-03-15T21:39:00.000-04:00

While it may take you a few weeks or months, depending on which surgery you have had, to recover from the hysterectomy - there are a few things you can do to speed up your hysterectomy recovery.

At home after the post hysterectomy procedure:

• a) Take all the pain relievers prescribed by your doctor. It's very unlikely you will get addicted to pain killers because of your hysterectomy... what is crucial is to be as comfortable as possible during your post hysterectomy period.

• b) Make sure you have enough sanitary pads for vaginal bleeding and discharge. You may have some discharge and bloody drainage for several days after your hysterectomy.

• c) Use heating pads - buy one or two. Place one over the abdomen and another under it, if necessary. Do not sleep with a heating pad in direct contact with the skin because it is not safe and it may burn you.

• d) Limit your movement at the beginning or if your doctor authorizes it take some short walks to keep your blood circulating and prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.

Take it slow, and make sure you save all household activity for another time. Ask family, friends or hire a cleaning company to do your housework. Limit your bending for a few weeks and don't lift anything heavy after the surgery.

• e) While in bed listen to your favorite music, television programs or read your favorite books. Use headphones if necessary at home or in the hospital.

• f) Learn to relax and enjoy this quite time in your life so you can improve a lot faster. To be relaxed strengthens your immune system.

• g) Avoid all lifting after the surgery and during the post hysterectomy period (ask others to do it for you).

• h) Do not climb stairs or drive a car during this recuperation period (ask family and friends to help you).

• i) Do not prepare your own meals for a few weeks. Ask a friend or family member to do it for you or order them from some business that could deliver them to you.

• j) Find assistance from your family or friends and move very slowly when trying to get up into a seated position.

• l) Don't dink alcoholic beverages please for a few weeks (especially while taking medication).

• m) Avoid aspirin and dairy foods during the post hysterectomy time because dairy products will not help you with constipation. The pain medicine you will be taking during the post hysterectomy time will tend to make you constipated.

After hysterectomy and during hysterectomy recovery make sure you:

• Eat healthy, because your body needs nutrients to heal (even if you don't feel like it). Eat cold-water fish as well as turkey, chicken, organic bread, soups, salads, vegetables and broths.

• Take the best daily multiple premium vitaminswe recommend and vitamin C as well.

These vitamins will help improve your sleep, will make you less susceptibility to colds, flu’s and viruses, will increase your energy levels and provide you with sharper and clearer mind.

• Take time to heal and take care of yourself. Soon you will be feeling better!

• Don't forget to drink filtered water. And since most of life is "consumption and elimination", you need to consume 8-10 glasses of water daily to adequately "flush" your system of toxins which would otherwise build up and cause some level of discomfort or illness.

• Your first two weeks at home will be the most difficult. So take the opportunity to sleep, relax, read, listen to music, eat healthy food until your post hysterectomy is over. Don't forget to smile and laugh at least once a day...

Vitamin D can prevent heart disease, kidney failure, other ills, Utah research finds

2010-03-15T21:33:00.004-04:00

Taking vitamin D supplements could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney failure, depression and death, according to research by Intermountain Medical Center.

In a presentation made today at the American College of Cardiology's annual conference in Atlanta, researchers showed that patients who increased their vitamin D levels to 43 nanograms per milliliter of blood or higher reduced their risks of the chronic diseases.

That is higher than the amount that is considered "normal," which is 30 nanograms.

Most Utahns don't even reach that benchmark: Two-thirds of residents are vitamin-D deficient, Intermountain researchers have previously estimated. That's likely because the vitamin is found in few foods and mainly comes from sun exposure. But sunscreen blocks absorption.

Vitamin supplements are inexpensive. One of the authors of the study, Brent Muhlestein, director of cardiovascular research at Intermountain, said in a news release that taking 1,000 to 5,000 international units a day might be appropriate.

First, patients should have their vitamin D levels checked through a blood test. The tests are typically covered by insurance if deemed medically necessary.

Today's presentation followed earlier research at Intermountain that found having low levels of vitamin D made patients more likely to develop heart failure or coronary artery disease, or have a stroke.

http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_14679642

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN IN A REBOUND RELATIONSHIP?

2010-03-14T13:15:00.003-04:00

Do people stay in a relationship with the rebound person?

Many people do not stay in the relationship with the rebound person because they are just there to fill a void. Some people use the rebound person just because they want to be with somebody. Looking back on my relationships, I would say that I have been that rebound person...someone to just fill a void!!!!!

RECOGNIZING A REBOUND RELATIONSHIP

A rebound relationship can mean getting involved before resolving the issues of a break-up. It acts as a band aid for unresolved pain. It is often about two lonely souls sharing their needs, emotions, and time. It can just be about a 'hug' and feeling close to someone who understands and cares, compassion the key for wounded souls.

Sometimes it is about sex, as that can take away the pain for some, but generally that soul has attracted a person who will move them to the next level of emotional growth and spiritual clearing.

Each person in a rebound relationship needs something from the other, but while one may be ready for long term commitment, the other is only in it for the short term, although they may not know it at the time. The pain comes from believing that each person understands the other's needs and thinking those needs are the same when they're actually quite opposite.

People in a rebound relationship will reach out and embrace the person who gives them the comfort they need. Sometimes this happens way to soon after they separate from the old partner. It generally takes one year to heal a broken relationship if you are the person who has been rejected. Once that need has been met, they can then begin working on the unresolved emotional issues brought to the surface by their divorce. As they begin working through those issues, their needs change. They may not need so much hugging. Their need for a comforting person in their life may diminish. The relationship built upon comfort and kind words now needs more ingredients to continue to grow. It may not be kind words and hugs that a newly divorced person needs as much as feeling "comfortable" in a relationship. If they have just come out of a long term abusive relationship, abuse in a new relationship may put them into their "comfort zone." The new relationship may be successful until they resolve old issues and find they no longer need to be abused to feel loved. Most rebound relationships don't have long term potential once the needy person begins emotional recovery.

People tire of 'needy, whiny people'. Some people like strong independent partners, while other can't cope with that personality type.

To be used as someone's rebound partner, so they can heal, sets you up for a failed relationship, in which the rebound person gets what they need from you, then quickly moves on to find love.

Whatever you do, take your time in building a new relationship if you want it to last for a while. Rebounders always have issues. Be careful who you date and inquire about their last relationship. They may be using you and not realize it. They may be caring a torch for the former parter. They may return to that partner and expect you to be waiting in case things don't work out. Never forget ... nothing lasts forever.

KEEP IT MOVING!

BODY, SOUL, AND SPIRIT

2010-03-14T13:02:00.002-04:00

Each man and woman born into this world is a being made of three (3) distinct components:

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul andbody be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(1 Thessalonians 5:23 KJV)

1: The BODY. This is your PHYSICAL component of being. It is flesh made from a collection of unremarkable mineral elements (but is mostly water) and is in harmony with the nature and spirit of this world. It grows, matures, begins to deteriorate, eventually dies, and then decomposes back into its constituent elements and remains a part of the dust of the world. The body is a part of you but is NOT ALL of what defines who YOU are.

2: The SOUL. This is who YOU are; it is a part of your SPIRITUAL component. This is your individuality, your "I AM" so to speak, your "heart." Although your individual soul did not exist before your mother and father procreated you, it will exist forever. It cannot be killed by man: When your body dies your soul (YOU) will leave the body of flesh:

3: The SPIRIT. This is the source of power and control for both your body and soul; it is either evil or good, darkness or light, unholy or Holy, unclean or clean, of Satan or of God:

Where your soul spends eternity after it departs is determined by your personal relationship to God (saved or unsaved). You are an eternal being. You determine your own destiny. In fact, the Bible says that you are a "god" (small "g"):

"Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?"
(John 10:34 KJV)
"So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them."
(Gen 1:27 KJV)

(see also Isaiah 41:23 and Psalms 82:6)

The unsaved man or woman, those who have only the first birth, are in eternal danger. Since the body and soul of the unsaved man or woman are bonded to the dead spirit of this present world, when this world's physical elements and spiritual components (including "Death") are cast into the lake of fire (see Rev 20:13-15), those eternal souls, living or already dead, will perish with them.

So, what exactly is the difference between the relationship of the unsaved soul and the saved soul? What does being "Born Again" actually mean? The answer is something that God does for you at the moment you accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your savior: An OPERATION.

Have you ever been operated on by a doctor? The doctor uses a knife to cut away something that is diseased. Well, God's "operation" is similar. Using the Sword of the Lord instead of a scalpel, the Great Physician (Luke 5:31) severs the direct (but unseen) connection between your soul and your flesh:

"For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
(Heb. 4:12 KJV)
"Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [him] through the faith of the operationof God, who hath raised him from the dead."
(Col. 2:12 KJV)

This "operation" is a spiritual circumcision. Your flesh is cut away from your soul and you are given God's Spirit:

"But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God."
(Romans 2:29 KJV)

After you have accepted the free gift of salvation through faith in the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, and as you grow and mature in the Lord (your continuing sanctification), you will begin to notice some changes in how you think. You will find that your heart (soul) grows more and more in agreement with God and His law (which is spiritual), but your flesh will still want to go the way of the world. All true born-again Christians have a split personality so to speak. And even when you work not to sin (you don't work to stay saved), sin still happens along your path of Christian growth. Paul sums it up quite well in the book of Romans:

"I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."
(Romans 7:21-25 KJV)

Your soul is saved, but your flesh, your present physical body, is still dead and cannot be salvaged. It will perish and return to the Earth. (You get a new body later.) Your present flesh will still lust to do those things that are unlawful, while at the same time your heart and the Spirit will condemn those thoughts and feelings and empower you to avoid the temptation. But no Christian is perfect in the flesh, and as you go through this life you will sometimes give in to those feelings and will sin in the flesh (but not in your heart). http://www.kjvbible.org/body.html

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

2010-03-05T10:35:00.001-05:00

TIME TO GET BUSY

2010-03-01T05:58:00.005-05:00

Good Morning!

Hello all,

I hope all is well with everyone. Recently we had a S.P.I.R.I.T member in the hospital. During this time, a moment of reflection on what's important came to surface. It's time for the S.P.I.R.I.T group to wake up and get busy. It's time to expand this group into what it was founded on "The SPIRIT"!

Believers are said to be spiritually alive - while unbelievers are spiritually dead. It's time to be ALIVE people. Many of us have or know someone that has financial, emotional, physical, Maridel, health and relationship problems going on in their life. It's time for change...we started off having meetings, discussions, and we even adopted a child for Christmas. It's time to get back in motion!

Marcia made a suggestion. She knows a minister at her place of employment, that also teaches Nutrition and Wellness. She suggested that he could be a guest speaker. If anyone else have suggestions please feel free to add. It's time to be ALIVE!!!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

U.S. to Spilt in 2010

2010-01-13T19:28:00.000-05:00

Click the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FN25mh8DRfA&NR=1

THE GEORGIA GUIDESTONES IN ELBERTON, GEORGIA

2010-01-13T19:15:00.002-05:00

On one of the highest hilltops in Elbert County, Georgia stands a huge granite monument. Engraved in eight different languages on the four giant stones that support the common capstone are 10 Guides, or commandments, in which one of them is about population decrease.

Click the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDwP7SZMXpU&feature=related

WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!!

Love Is In The Air!!!

POPULATION DECREASE BY 2012

2010-01-13T19:09:00.002-05:00

The goal is to bring the world's population from 6 billion to 500 million by the year 2012.

Was the earthquake in Haiti and act of nature or an act of man. (Other ways of decreasing the population) check out this link: David Rockefeller talks about population control......http://www.disclose.tv/action/viewvideo/6985/David_Rockefeller_speaks_about_population_control/

UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP

2009-11-07T15:54:00.002-05:00

What's an Unhealthy Relationship?

A relationship is unhealthy when it involves mean, disrespectful, controlling, or abusive behavior. Some people live in homes with parents who fight a lot or abuse each other — emotionally, verbally, or physically. For some people who have grown up around this kind of behavior it can almost seem normal or OK. It's not! Many of us learn from watching and imitating the people close to us. So someone who has lived around violent or disrespectful behavior may not have learned how to treat others with kindness and respect or how to expect the same treatment.

Qualities like kindness and respect are absolute requirements for a healthy relationship. Someone who doesn't yet have this part down may need to work on it with a trained therapist before he or she is ready for a relationship. Meanwhile, even though you might feel bad or feel for someone who's been mistreated, you need to take care of yourself — it's not healthy to stay in a relationship that involves abusive behavior of any kind.

Warning Signs

When a boyfriend or girlfriend uses verbal insults, mean language, nasty putdowns, gets physical by hitting or slapping, or forces someone into sexual activity, it's an important warning sign of verbal, emotional, or physical abuse.

Ask yourself, does my boyfriend or girlfriend:

1. Get angry when I don't drop everything for him or her?
2. Criticize the way I look or dress?
3. Keep me from seeing friends or from talking to any other guys or girls?
4. Want me to quit an activity, even though I love it?
5. Ever raise a hand when angry, like he or she is about to hit me?
6. Try to force me to go further sexually than I want to?

These aren't the only questions you can ask yourself. If you can think of any way in which your boyfriend or girlfriend is trying to control you, make you feel bad about yourself, isolate you from the rest of your world, or — this is a big one — harm you physically or sexually, then it's time to get out, fast. Let a trusted friend or family member know what's going on and make sure you're safe.

It can be tempting to make excuses or misinterpret violence, possessiveness, or anger as an expression of love. But even if you know that the person hurting you loves you, it is not healthy. No one deserves to be hit, shoved, or forced into anything he or she doesn't want to do. The best thing to do is KEEP IT MOVING! NEXT!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

A GLANCE AT HEALTHCARE REFORM

2009-09-10T12:17:00.003-04:00

On September 9, 2009 - President Obama addressed Congress and the American people regarding the healthcare reform.

Here are a couple of quotes from the President that stood out in my head:

"I am not the first President to take up this cause, but I am determined to be the last. It has now been nearly a century since Theodore Roosevelt first called for health care reform." - President Obama

Let's take a look back when President Roosevelt first called for health care reform.
**The emphasis of health reform shifted during the 1920s as medical care became both more effective and more expensive; soon, medical costs and access to care replaced wage support as reformers’ primary concern. But the character of reform leadership changed little, and health reformers continued to share the elite status of their predecessors. The most prominent reform group of the 1920s, the Committee on the Costs of Medical Care (CCMC), which was financed by large foundations and made up of physicians, academic economists, and representatives of private interest groups, again relied on research rather than popular mobilization. The CCMC’s modest proposals for group medicine and voluntary insurance were denounced by the American Medical Association (AMA) as “socialized medicine,” but the battle was fought in the pages of newspapers and academic journals, with no attempt to enlist ordinary people as advocates for the reformers’ recommendations.

"But what we have also seen in the these last months is the same partisan spectacle that only hardens the disdain many Americans have toward their own government. Instead of honest debate, we have seen scare tactics." - President Obama

SCARE TACTICS......HMMM....
"Over stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still small voice. Entice them to watch the news, and listen to talk radio shows."

"Unfortunately, in 34 states, 75% of the insurance market is controlled by five or fewer companies. In Alabama, almost 90% is controlled by just ONE company. Without competition, the price of insurance goes up and the quality goes down. And it makes it easier for insurance companies to treat their customers badly -by cherry picking the healthiest individuals and trying to drop the sickiest: by ovecharging small businesses who have no leverage: and by jacking up rates."
-President Obama

LET US TAKE A LOOK AT HOW CONGRESS IS INVOLVED
Over the past eight years, some of the largest and most politically active pharmaceutical and health care companies have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on private trips for members of Congress and their staffs.

A review of hundreds of public documents by the Huffington Post shows that from 2000 through 2008 the top 20 most active companies in these fields sponsored 192 trips worth more than $380,000 for dozens of politicians and staff. The list of those companies -- as determined by campaign contributions in the last election cycle -- include industry giants such as Pfizer, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, and Merck & Co.

During that same time period, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, which represents the country's largest drug manufacturers, spent more than $140,000 sponsoring 66 trips of its own. Meanwhile, the Healthcare Leader Council, a coalition of hospitals, health plans, and pharmaceutical companies spent nearly $70,000 on 49 trips. (Some of these events were co-sponsored.)

While a majority of the travel took place several years ago, all of the groups involved currently have major stakes in today's health care reform debate. The pharmaceutical and health products industry as a whole has, in 2009 alone, already spent more than $66.5 million lobbying Congress.

The healthcare reform goes way beyond healthcare. I recently had a discussion board question for my Human Resource Management class back in August 2009. Here's the question:
A 2003 survey of recent college graduates in the United Kingdom found that although many had not found their first jobs, most were already planning “career breaks” and to keep up their hobbies and interests outside work. As one report of the findings put it, “the next generation of workers is determined not to wind up on the hamster wheel of long hours with no play.” Part of the problem seems to be that many already see their friends “putting in more than 48 hours a week” at work. Career experts reviewing the results concluded that many of these recent college grads “are not looking for high-pay, high-profile jobs anymore.” Instead they seem to be looking to “compartmentalize” their lives; to keep the number of hours they spend at work down, so that they can maintain their hobbies and outside interests. So, do you think these findings are as popular in the United States as they appear to be in the United Kingdom? If so, if you were mentoring one of these people at work, what three specific bits of career advice would you give to him or her?

"We are the only advanced democracy on Earth-the only wealthy nation - that allows such hardships for millions of its people." - President Obama

Here's my answer to the discussion board question:
Considering the country we live in is based on money, power, and greed. I don’t think that many U.S. college grads are planning career breaks. I would say U.S. college grads are just changing careers. With the country in a recession and unemployment at a record high, many U.S college grads are looking for careers overseas. Some of them are even joining the Peace Corp or volunteering with non-profit organizations. How can one keep up their hobbies and interests outside work – when there isn’t any work? U.S. college grads are still looking for that high pay-high profile job. If offered – who would turn it down?

As mentioned before, U.S. is a money driven country. Let’s take a look at the Universal Healthcare plan President Obama is trying to develop for the American people. He’s proposing a more affordable high quality healthcare plan, which is being objected by people that are driven by greed – your pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and insurance companies because they wouldn’t make as much money. Now in the United Kingdom their National Health Service provides free, comprehensive, high quality healthcare. Also, 99% of British population that is registered with the NHS is entitled to free doctor visits and hospital treatment. Certain priority groups (low-income earners, pensioners, and children under 16) also receive free dental care and eye test.

So, the college grads in United Kingdom can take career breaks because they still have benefits which they don’t have to worry about when taking a career break. The average college grad in the U.S. can’t afford to take a career break because they wouldn’t have any benefits. Some may take a chance and go to another country for a career break and pray they don’t come back to the U.S. sick after drinking bad water.

This brings me back to career changes. United States college grads are focusing more on jobs with benefits even when it’s an entry level position, which makes it easier to continue hobbies, and other interest outside work.

The advice I would give to a college grad would be:
1. Do your own research. Know what’s going on in the country you live in, don’t just listen to news.
2. When looking for a career, be realistic. Professional Sports is the only career where you can start at the top.
3. Turn your hobbies into careers.

All I ask is that you do your own research. WAKE UP AMERICA!

Love Is In The Air!

JFK speaks of government consiparcy

2009-09-04T18:46:00.002-04:00

WAKE UP AMERICA!

President Kennedy spoke of conspiracy and secret societies. He knew of all the wrong doings of many government officials here and abroad. He had to be taken out because of what he knew and who was doing it. Click the link below and listen to the speech very carefully.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxnpujfanUM&feature=related

CHICKS BEING GROUND UP ALIVE

2009-09-04T18:29:00.003-04:00

The video you're about to see is a hatchery in Iowa. In the video you will see chicks being ground up which is a standard practice within the industry.

"Companies can ground up chicks, but citizens can't dog fight!"

Click the link below to watch video.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/01/chicks-being-ground-up-al_n_273652.html

Decreasing The Population

2009-08-25T23:59:00.003-04:00

SWINE FLU

Swine flu may hospitalize 1.8 million patients in the U.S. this year, filling intensive care units to capacity and causing “severe disruptions” during a fall resurgence, scientific advisers to the White House warned.

Swine flu, also known as H1N1, may infect as much as half of the population and kill 30,000 to 90,000 people, double the deaths caused by the typical seasonal flu, according to the planning scenario issued yesterday by the President’s Council of Advisers on Science and Technology. Intensive care units in hospitals, some of which use 80 percent of their space in normal operation, may need every bed for flu cases, the report said. (This is only for US, not counting the deaths in other countries)

Let's take a history lesson regarding this flu:

1918 pandemic in humans
1918 flu pandemic in humans was associated with H1N1 and influenza appearing in pigs; this may reflect a zoonosis either from swine to humans, or from humans to swine. Although it is not certain in which direction the virus was transferred, some evidence suggests that, in this case, pigs caught the disease from humans. For instance, swine influenza was only noted as a new disease of pigs in 1918, after the first large outbreaks of influenza amongst people. It is estimated that anywhere from 50 to 100 million people were killed worldwide.

1976 U.S. Outbreak
On February 5, 1976, in the United States an army recruit at Fort Dix said he felt tired and weak. He died the next day and four of his fellow soldiers were later hospitalized. Two weeks after his death, health officials announced that the cause of death was a new strain of swine flu. The strain, a variant of is known as A/New Jersey/1976 (H1N1). It was detected only from January 19 to February 9 and did not spread beyond Fort Dix. In addition to the half million in America, it killed 20 million people around the world.

How can a outbreak not spread beyond Fort Dix? I will tell you how, it was an experimental procedure that was done to see how fast the virus can affect the body. Once it was found out, the virus was released. That's what happening now, the virus has been released once again. "Decreasing The Population"

1998 US outbreak in swine
In 1998, swine flu was found in pigs in four U.S. states.

2007 Philippine outbreak in swine
On August 20, 2007 Department of Agriculture officers investigated the outbreak of swine flu in Philippines. The mortality rate is less than 10% for swine flu, unless there are complications like hog cholera.

Take a look at where the transmission of this flu is found. PIGS and HOGS? Now, think about who eat pigs and hogs. Hmmm...if you thought of people in US and other countries that are less fortunate, you thinking on the right path. Those who have money tend to eat less pork. "Get rid of the less fortunate!" - Decreasing The Population

Now, For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world’s population, while enabling the “elites” to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. The goal is to bring the world population from 6 billion to 500 million by 2012.

This is only one of the plans to decrease the population. Another one will be contaminated water. They are putting Flouride in the water, toothpaste and saying that it's good for you. NOT! Do you know that Flouride is used in RAT POISION?

I took a trip to the store, all toothpastes have flouride in them. Even some bottled water. Get this, every item in the store that suppose to have nutrition ingredients, label ingredients on the back of them telling what it's made of had labels....not the rat poision. There was no label?

.........to be continued

WAKE UP PEOPLE!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

REMEMBERING MICHAEL J. JACKSON

2009-06-30T23:11:00.003-04:00

I remember when the Thriller video would come on, and my Mother would scream, "Tet, Thriller is getting ready to come on." I would run down stairs and sit right in front of the floor model television with my popcorn and watch the video like I was looking at a movie. After the video went off, I would get up and do the entire video. I still enjoy doing Michael Jackson moves, especially the Motown 25th anniversary when he performed Billy Jean. That was the BOMB!

Check out the DANCING PRISONERS tribute to Michael Jackson.

IT'S LIKE BUTTA BABY!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMnk7lh9M3o&feature=related

MJ moonwalk one time for my Mother. R.I.P

WHAT'S GOING WITH THE SCHOOL DROPOUT RATE IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA

2009-05-22T12:14:00.003-04:00

Check out this article from ajc.com

Our Editorial Board’s Opinion: Can’t throw up our hands as teens quit
By Maureen Downey
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sunday, May 17, 2009

Over the next two weeks, an estimated 90,000 seniors earning high school diplomas across Georgia will mark the milestone by tossing their graduation caps into the air. Proud parents and grandparents will stand on chairs and dash to the aisles with cameras to capture that long-awaited moment.

But missing from those graduation photos will be about 49,000 members of the class of 2009 who have already tossed something of great value into the air —- their futures.

That’s the number of Georgia students who began high school four years ago but have since disappeared from the radar of both the state and the schools. No one knows where all those missing students have gone, or what they are doing.

Most are likely dropouts, sitting on the living room couch, watching “Simpsons” reruns and waiting for a job to magically land in their lap. Even if those teens somehow find a job, they will never earn enough to support a family in a middle-class lifestyle; the average American without a high school diploma earns an annual salary of less than $20,000.

“When I graduated from high school, you could earn a decent wage to support your family working in the mines in West Virginia,” says former West Virginia Gov. Bob Wise, now president of the Alliance for Excellent Education. “When I was governor, I visited one of the mines and found almost all miners had at least an associate’s degree. When asked why, the mine’s owner replied, ‘I am not letting anyone work a mile underground with a half-million-dollar piece of technical equipment who doesn’t at least have a postsecondary education.’ “

Yet every year, tens of thousands of Georgia teens try to enter the work force without a high school education.
According to some, we’re making progress in bringing down that number. The state Department of Education, for example, claims that Georgia’s high school graduation rate last year was 75.4 percent, the highest level in the state’s history.

“In 2008, we had more than 83,000 students who graduated on time, which is 27,000 more than we had just five years ago,” said state Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox.

Unfortunately, the methodology used to produce the graduation rate cited by Cox is flawed. Because it tends to undercount dropouts or rely on sketchy dropout data, it produces an inflated rate of success. Those falsely optimistic numbers in turn prevent the public from knowing the extent of the dropout problem and taking the necessary steps to combat it.

A new federal policy will help the state and the public get a better idea of what is happening to those students. In the next three years, all states must move to a “four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate.” The standard methodology takes the number of students who graduate in four years with a regular high school diploma, and divides it by the number of students who entered high school four years earlier, adjusting for transfers in and out, emigres and deceased students.
Before a student can be eliminated from a school’s roll, the school must provide written confirmation that the student has enrolled in another school or in an educational program that culminates in a regular high school diploma.

In the absence of such accountability, local schools can continue to disguise their failures by claiming that students who have left school have simply moved. That is a particularly unconvincing explanation here in Georgia, where the population has grown steadily. Between 2000 and 2008, for example, the Atlanta metro region added 1.13 million people. Last year, Fulton County became the first county in Georgia to tip past the 1-million-persons mark. Yet the Fulton class of 2009 has 1,535 fewer students than it began with four years ago —- 7,087 began ninth-grade in Fulton schools in 2005; 5,552 will graduate this year. It’s not alone.
Four years ago, Cobb County boasted a freshmen class of 9,580 students. Its senior class has 7,180 students. Gwinnett reported 12,724 freshmen in its class of 2009; it now lists 9,356 seniors. DeKalb’s class of 2009 began with 9,473 and is down to 6,140.

A 2008 report by Editorial Projects in Education, a nonprofit that publishes Education Week, concluded that 58.1 percent of students in Georgia earned a diploma in four years, compared with a national average of 70.6 percent. In that analysis, based on 2005 data, only four states and the District of Columbia performed worse.

Using the standard national methodology, Georgia’s class of 2008 began with 142,079 freshmen. In the course of four years, the class shrunk by 59,000 students. That would suggest a graduation rate of 58 percent rather than the state rate of 75.4 percent.
To its credit, the state DOE doesn’t pretend its graduation rate is accurate or cause for celebration.

“We recognize no matter how you calculate Georgia’s graduation rate, it is too low,” says DOE spokesman Dana Tofig.

Beyond getting a better grasp of the number of dropouts, the state also has to get a better idea of why teens leave school. Of special concern are black and Hispanic males, who have a graduation rate in Georgia of under 40 percent, according to Editorial Projects in Education.
The state’s current strategy is to attack the problem in high school with graduation coaches who spur lagging students on toward diplomas. But emerging research suggests that the battle lines have to be drawn long before high school and even before middle school. Many researchers contend the erosion of children’s educational ambitions begins in elementary school when they fall behind in reading.

“Without question, low-level literacy skills are contributing factors to many students’ decisions to drop out of school,” says Alfred W. Tatum, director of the University of Illinois at Chicago Reading Clinic and author of “Teaching Reading to Black Adolescent Males: Closing the Achievement Gap.”

“Not knowing how to read or read well is painful for many adolescents,” says Tatum. “Large numbers of adolescents opt to surrender their life’s chances before they get to know their life’s choices.”

But it isn’t just poor readers who give up on school. “Adolescents with adequate literacy skills —- that is, the ability to handle the academic demands of schools —- choose to drop out, although in fewer numbers, because they are grossly disengaged by age-old traditions of curriculum or assessment overload,” says Tatum. “Adolescents routinely encounter literary and non-literary texts across disciplines that they view as devoid of meaning and significance.”

A new report by the Southern Regional Education Board —- a 16-state compact dedicated to improving education —- cites reading deficiencies as the most urgent problem facing schools. The report contends that schools stop teaching reading after the elementary grades even though struggling readers still need help in the middle grades and high school. The SREB report urges a new commitment to teaching reading skills to adolescents by embedding reading instruction in middle and high school subject classes.

If Georgia wants more teens in those exuberant photos of graduation caps in flight, it first has to get a better picture of which students are dropping out and why.

Maureen Downey, for the editorial board (mdowney@ajc.com)
Diminishing returns
Statewide graduating class of 2009
96,131
Senior year (2008-09)
105,109
Junior year (2007-08)
121,715
Sophomore year (2006-07)
145,243
Freshman year (2005-06)
Source: Georgia Department of Education
Education pays
Average income by educational level
$17,299
High school dropout
$26,933
High school diploma
$36,645
Associate’s degree
$52,671
Bachelor’s degree
Source: U.S. Census

MARRIAGE

2009-05-14T13:28:00.003-04:00

Let's take a look at the Wikipedia definition of MARRIAGE.

Marriage is a social, religious, spiritual or legal union of individuals that creates kinship. This union may also be called matrimony, while the ceremony that marks its beginning is usually called a wedding and the married status created is sometimes called wedlock.

Marriage is an institution in which interpersonal relationships (usually intimate and sexual) are acknowledged by the state, by religious authority, or both. It is often viewed as a contract. Civil marriage is the legal concept of marriage as a governmental institution, in accordance with marriage laws of the jurisdiction. If recognized by the state, by the religion(s) to which the parties belong or by society in general, the act of marriage changes the personal and social status of the individuals who enter into it.

People marry for many reasons, but usually one or more of the following: legal, social, emotional, and economic stability; the formation of a family unit; procreation and the education and nurturing of children; legitimizing sexual relations; public declaration of love.[1][2]

Marriage may take many forms: for example, a union between one man and one woman as husband and wife is a monogamous heterosexual marriage; polygamy – in which a person takes more than one spouse – is common in some societies.[3] Some jurisdictions[4] and religious denominations [5][6][7] recognize same-sex marriage, uniting people of the same sex.

A marriage is often formalized by a ceremony called a wedding,[8] which in modern times is usually performed by a religious minister or a civil officer. The act of marriage usually creates normative or legal obligations between the individuals involved and, in many societies, their extended families.

NOT ONCE WAS THE WORD LOVE MENTIONED.

Many are marrying for the wrong reasons.

Looking at the different unions of marriage, I can only agree with one. "SPIRITUAL"
You can love someone and not be spiritually connected. Being spiritually connected creates lifetime commitment, without legal obligations.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

CRUISE

2009-04-21T10:23:00.002-04:00

Hello All,

I hope all is well with everyone. Whenever we decide on our first meeting for the year, here's something we can discuss "Another Cruise!"

Here's a crusie that port from Miami with stops in Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, and Nassau.

Click the link below. I was thinking sometime in October.

http://content.onlineagency.com/index.aspx?site=15101&tide=6350899

Let me know your thoughts.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

ROCKET FUEL CHEMICAL FOUND IN BABY FORMULA AND WATER

2009-04-03T11:09:00.002-04:00

CDC: Rocket fuel chemical found in baby formula

By MIKE STOBBE, AP Medical Writer - Fri Apr 3, 3:36 AM PDT

ATLANTA - Traces of a chemical used in rocket fuel were found in samples of powdered baby formula, and could exceed what's considered a safe dose for adults if mixed with water also contaminated with the ingredient, a government study has found.

The study by scientists at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention looked for the chemical, perchlorate, in different brands of powdered baby formula. It was published last month, but the Environmental Working Group issued a press release Thursday drawing attention to it.

The chemical has turned up in several cities' drinking water supplies. It can occur naturally, but most perchlorate contamination has been tied to defense and aerospace sites.

No tests have ever shown the chemical caused health problems, but scientists have said significant amounts of perchlorate can affect thyroid function. The thyroid helps set the body's metabolism. Thyroid problems can impact fetal and infant brain development.
However, the extent of the risk is hard to assess. The government requires that formula contain iodine, which counteracts perchlorate's effects. The size of the infant and how much formula they consume are other factors that can influence risk.

The study itself sheds little light on how dangerous the perchlorate in baby formula is. "This wasn't a study of health effects," said Dr. Joshua Schier, one of the authors.

The largest amounts of the chemical were in formulas derived from cow's milk, the study said.
The researchers would not disclose the brands of formula they studied. Only a few samples were studied, so it's hard to know if the perchlorate levels would be found in all containers of those brands, a CDC spokesman said.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said it was considering setting new limits on the amount of perchlorate that would be acceptable in drinking water. A few states have already set their own limits.

The EPA has checked nearly 4,000 public water supplies serving 10,000 people or more. About 160 of the water systems had detectable levels of perchlorate, and 31 had levels high enough to exceed a new safety level the EPA is considering.

WAKE UP PEOPLE! - Ways to decrease the population

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

THE HISTORY OF APRIL FOOL'S DAY

2009-04-01T14:49:00.000-04:00

April Fool's Day History

The history of April Fool's Day or All Fool's Day is uncertain, but the current thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calendar under Charles IX. The Gregorian Calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved from March 25 - April 1 (new year's week) to January 1.

Communication traveled slowly in those days and some people were only informed of the change several years later. Still others, who were more rebellious refused to acknowledge the change and continued to celebrate on the last day of the former celebration, April 1. These people were labeled "fools" by the general populace, were subject to ridicule and sent on "fool errands," sent invitations to nonexistent parties and had other practical jokes played upon them. The butts of these pranks became known as a "poisson d'avril" or "April fish" because a young naive fish is easily caught. In addition, one common practice was to hook a paper fish on the back of someone as a joke.

This harassment evolved over time and a custom of prank-playing continue on the first day of April. This tradition eventually spread elsewhere like to Britain and Scotland in the 18th century and was introduced to the American colonies by the English and the French. Because of this spread to other countries, April Fool's Day has taken on an international flavor with each country celebrating the holiday in its own way.

In Scotland, for instance, April Fool's Day is devoted to spoofs involving the buttocks and as such is called Taily Day. The butts of these jokes are known as April 'Gowk', another name for cuckoo bird. The origins of the "Kick Me" sign can be traced back to the Scottish observance.

In England, jokes are played only in the morning. Fools are called 'gobs' or 'gobby' and the victim of a joke is called a 'noodle.' It was considered back luck to play a practical joke on someone after noon.

In Rome, the holiday is known as Festival of Hilaria, celebrating the resurrection of the god Attis, is on March 25 and is also referred to as "Roman Laughing Day."

In Portugal, April Fool's Day falls on the Sunday and Monday before lent. In this celebration, many people throw flour at their friends.

The Huli Festival is celebrated on March 31 in India. People play jokes on one another and smear colors on one another celebrating the arrival of Spring.

So, no matter where you happen to be in the world on April 1, don't be surprised if April fools fall playfully upon you.

THE OBAMA DECEPTION

2009-03-26T20:13:00.002-04:00

After viewing the Obama Deception on YouTube, I took myself back to that historical day, January 20,2009. I saw myself standing in the cold among millions of people cheering, crying, hugging, and rejoicing the moment of the new sworn in President. I was filled with joy because I was apart of this historical event. That was a day my mother would've been so proud. She was the biggest fan of Blacks in high positions. But something in my head had me wondering - IS HE THE ONE? I remember saying that this Nation needed a new leader. A leader for the American people. Well, sometimes you have to be careful what you ask for.

I've done my own research regarding past Presidents and the connections with Illuminati. I've read how the Federal Reserve is privately owned, and is controlling everything. Yet, the question still remained in my head - Could he be the one to guide this Nation toward the right path?

Once he started electing his administration, a big light bulb stood above my head. This came to view when he announced Hillary Clinton as the Secretary of State. This position in way more important and powerful than the Vice President. During my research, I came across Hillary Clinton displaying the Phoenix Bird, which is a brotherhood symbol since ancient Egypt. This sparked another thought. Bill Clinton is part of Illuminati, and he was the American hero, after George H. Bush took this Nation to its feet. Now, Barack Obama is the American hero, after George W. Bush took this Nation to its feet.

The Brotherhood is using these people to execute their plan. They are using the bad cop, good cop approach. They are manipulating the society by having the bad President to execute the plan without any remorse, and then they bring in the good President to get the people to believe in him and his policies. But once in office things change. The reason being, he is now a Pawn being used to execute the plan. Now, if the President refuse to act accordingly, actions will be taken. This is what happened to Lincoln, Kennedy, and even Clinton. No, he wasn't assassinated, he just had the Monica Lewinsky saga.

I will advise you to check out this video and do your own research. Some of this information can be found on the history channel. I was watching a program regarding the assassination of President Lincoln, and many people don't know that the plan was to also kill William H. Seward (Secretary of State) and Andrew Johnson (Vice President). Seward was attacked but recovered from his wounds and Johnson's would be assassin fled upon losing his nerve. Johnson was sworn in as President, but he was impeached.

Alot of information is out there, but it's up to you to find it.

Click the link below to view the Obama Deception on YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8fhGX_oHSk

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - MARCIA

2009-03-05T18:32:00.002-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

MARCIA!

We will be celebrating Marcia's birthday at McCormick and Schmick's.

There will be an email with more details.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

GOOGLE vs. GATES

2009-03-03T11:03:00.003-05:00

Google vs. Gates

They're obsessed with success and each other. Call it a (death) match made in heaven.

By Kevin Kelleher

THE COMPLETE GUIDE:
Google vs. Gates Every few years, a new rivalry emerges in the tech world - Apple and Microsoft, Netscape and Microsoft, Oracle and Microsoft. See the pattern? Now it's Google and Microsoft. And Google may be the perfect nemesis - the best of its predecessors rolled up into one.

Like Oracle, Google is a category killer. Like Apple, Google has brand cachet and a loyal following. Like Netscape, it has the energy of youth and is touted as the trigger for the next tech boom. Meanwhile, Microsoft remains, well, Microsoft. Big. Strong. Rich.

Until recently, the mutual admiration and fear between the companies was reserved for board meetings and cubicle chatter. Now it's open to the public. In the spring of 2002, Google introduced an engine tailored to search Microsoft-related Web pages. Then Microsoft indicated in early 2003 that it would revamp MSN Search to return faster, algorithmically driven results without banner ads - � la Google. A few months later, Google moved further into Microsoft territory with the Deskbar, a search box that sits on the Windows OS. Come fall, Microsoft reportedly bid $10 billion to buy Google, but the offer was spurned. At the World Economic Forum in January, Bill Gates weighed in. "They kicked our butts," he said - then quickly declared that Redmond's next-gen engine would out-Google Google.

Why is Microsoft so obsessed? Because it knows search is a key component in the future of computing. Microsoft's next-generation OS, Longhorn, is conceived as a unified interface for a PC, its local network, and the Web. For it to work, Longhorn needs a sleek search utility. If Microsoft can't buy Google, it'll resort to its time-tested strategy: copy the best technology and integrate it on the desktop.

At the same time, Google has become more than a typical search engine. Its search box is a phone book and a dictionary. It can check stock prices, provide news, track FedEx packages, perform metric conversions, locate airplanes, offer street maps, and supply weather conditions. It'll search retail outlets by zip code and, with Froogle, scour the Web for products. In short, Google execs are innovating like they're running from someone. "People at Google don't talk about it, but it's pretty evident," says Danny Sullivan, editor of Search Engine Watch.

"Microsoft's making a move into search that's equal to its move into Web browsers. That's got to make you nervous."

For all their differences, the two companies have a lot in common. Microsoft looks at Google and sees its own past, full of promise. Google looks at Microsoft and sees the future - a swaggering company that dominates the tech landscape. It's a classic battle between youth and experience or, as Google likes to believe, good and evil.

After reading this article. As we all know, Microsoft dominants the world of computers. I remembered reading something regarding Bill Gates, and I found what I had read. Take a look at the post called Who Is BILL GATES?

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

Who is BILL GATES?

2009-03-03T10:14:00.005-05:00

Bill Gates III, The anti Christ?

Well, this page is going to be both strange and interesting at the same time. We all use Microsoft products, Windows 95/98 mainly. And these products are manufactured by Microsoft Corp. Bill Gates is Chairman of Microsoft.

Bill Gates' real name is William Henry Gates III. Most today call him "Bill Gates III", where "III" means the order of third (3rd).

The American Standard Code for Information Interchange
"ASCII" is an acronym for American Standard Code for Information Interchange. There is a set of numbers ranging from 0 to 255 which represent the characters used by the computer. All characters you see on your keyboard are represented by a number within the range of 0-255(one byte). An uppercase "a" would be 65, an uppercase "b" would be 66 and so on.

Below is an ACII code chart for your reference. This chart only shows the first 128 characters(0-127). The characters from 128 to 255 are extended ASCII codes and are not needed for my illustration. In reading the chart below, "Dec" stands for "decimal", and "Char" stands for "character". The corresponding characters appear to the right of the Decimal number and the decimal number is the ASCII code.

ASCII Table - for your reference
Dec Char Dec Char Dec Char Dec Char
--------- ---------- --------- ----------
0 NUL (null) 32 SPACE 64 @ 96 `
1 SOH (start of heading) 33 ! 65 A 97 a
2 STX (start of text) 34 " 66 B 98 b
3 ETX (end of text) 35 # 67 C 99 c
4 EOT (end of transmission) 36 $ 68 D 100 d
5 ENQ (enquiry) 37 % 69 E 101 e
6 ACK (acknowledge) 38 & 70 F 102 f
7 BEL (bell) 39 ' 71 G 103 g
8 BS (backspace) 40 ( 72 H 104 h
9 TAB (horizontal tab) 41 ) 73 I 105 i
10 LF (NL line feed, new line) 42 * 74 J 106 j
11 VT (vertical tab) 43 + 75 K 107 k
12 FF (NP form feed, new page) 44 , 76 L 108 l
13 CR (carriage return) 45 - 77 M 109 m
14 SO (shift out) 46 . 78 N 110 n
15 SI (shift in) 47 / 79 O 111 o
16 DLE (data link escape) 48 0 80 P 112 p
17 DC1 (device control 1) 49 1 81 Q 113 q
18 DC2 (device control 2) 50 2 82 R 114 r
19 DC3 (device control 3) 51 3 83 S 115 s
20 DC4 (device control 4) 52 4 84 T 116 t
21 NAK (negative acknowledge) 53 5 85 U 117 u
22 SYN (synchronous idle) 54 6 86 V 118 v
23 ETB (end of trans. block) 55 7 87 W 119 w
24 CAN (cancel) 56 8 88 X 120 x
25 EM (end of medium) 57 9 89 Y 121 y
26 032 SUB (substitute) 58 : 90 Z 122 z
27 ESC (escape) 59 ; 91 [ 123 {
28 FS (file separator) 60 < 61 =" 93"> 94 ^ 126 ~
31 US (unit separator) 63 ? 95 _ 127 DEL

The only ASCII codes you need to look at are the numbers for the letters for certain alphabetic characters. And now for some strange stuff. Take all the letters in "Bill Gates III" and convert each letter to the corresponding ASCII code (with the exception of the "III" which are all ones, Roman numerals). Then ADD them all up... you will get 666.
B I L L G A T E S I I I
66 73 76 76 71 65 84 69 83 1 1 1
"Coincidence", you say? Here do more, take the letters "WINDOWS 95," and do the same thing as above. The sum again is 666!
W I N D O W S 9 5
87 73 78 68 79 87 83 57 53 1
Windows 95 was released in August 1995. There must be a hidden reason for this, that would make up for the "1". The only thing I can think of is the "95", 9 + 5 = 14 - 1 = 13 which is a Masonic number.
M S - D O S 6 . 2 1
77 83 45 68 79 83 32 54 46 50 49
Strange? Coincidence? Three times it happened! What are the odds of all these ASCII numbers adding up to 666? three different times!?!?!?!?!?
There's more......

Try this with the OLD Excel 95 (not office 97):
1. Open a new file
2. Scroll down until you see row 95
3. Click on the row 95 button, this highlights the whole row
4. Press tab, to move to the second column
5. Now, move your mouse and click on help THEN about Microsoft excel
6. Press ctrl-alt-shift and click on the tech. support button simultaneously
7. A WINDOW WILL APPEAR, TITLE : THE HALL OF TORTURED SOULS. This is really eerie okay... it has a doom style format and you can walk all around the hall... and on the sides of the walls are the names of the tortured souls....
8. NOW WALK UP THE STAIRS AND THEN COME BACK DOWN, FACE THE BLANK WALL AND THEN TYPE IN "EXCELKFA." What this does is it will open the blank wall to reveal another secret passage, walk through the passage and BE CAREFUL! do not fall off, when you reach the end, you will see something really really eerie.... Countless witnesses all over the world have verified this point... It's really an eye opener. It could be a joke by Microsoft Programmers, or is it? I wouldn't be surprised if Bill Gates was "The Antichrist". It is foretold in the Bible that someone powerful would rise up and lead the world to destruction. And Bill Gates definitely has that kind of power in his hands. More than 80% of the world's computers run on Windows and DOS, including those at the Pentagon!, REMEMBER THE PENTAGON????? If all his products have some kind of small program embedded (like this Hall of Tortured Souls) that can give him control, setting off nuclear arsenals, creating havoc in security systems, financial systems all over the world, etc...... All from his headquarters isn't a far off reality! Just using Internet Explorer may just allow him to map out what you have on your computer bit by bit each time you log on.

REVELATION 13:16-18, "And he causeth all, both small and great, rich or poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six." REFERENCE; King James Bible

A computer can only do what it is programmed to do. THE HALL OF TORTURED SOULS was deliberately programmed into Microsoft software by Gates himself or somebody else within Microsoft did it. There is no mistaking this. Computers do not make this stuff up on their own!

SOMETHING MORE
http://www.geocities.com/Area51/4243/microsoft.html

Certain companies are in no doubt linked to this Satanic Brotherhood. Some companies use Satanic symbology such as Delta Airlines, America Online etc. use the pyramid/triangle. And these companies are controlled by Lucifer. Proctor & Gamble are also linked to Satanism.

Read more at http://www.theforbiddenknowledge.com/

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

UNITED WE STAND - DIVIDED WE FALL

2009-03-03T09:52:00.002-05:00

United We Stand,Divided We Fall

The Purpose of Division
When you divide a people your intention is to conquer them, hence; Divide and Conquer. If you conquer a people your intention is to rule over them. If you rule over a people, you control them. If you control a people, you enslave them.
Divide, conquer, rule, control, and enslavement are all synonymous with each other. If one exists in society the others must also exist.

Knowledge Deprivation
Consumerism is a keen way to keep knowledge away from the Masses. In fact, there is more emphasis on financial and material wealth then knowledge within society which, in itself is an irrefutable sign of slavery. Let me explain...
John and Kevin both own computers. John repairs computers for a living, Kevin does not. One day Kevin's computer broke down. Because Kevin does not know how to make the repair himself he has to depend on John for repairs. The only way Kevin is going to achieve independence from John is to learn how to repair computers himself. A proclamation of independence cannot be justified while being in a state of ignorance because freedom's origin is KNOWLEDGE.

In society, people purchase ready-made products and take them into their homes. When something breaks, those people learn real quick it is less expensive for them to throw it away and buy something new then to have it repaired. The equivalent behavior is burning books, nothing is learned. This translates to knowledge deprivation.

A vast majority of people within society possess only enough knowledge to operate technology.

Very few are knowledgeable enough to design and build their own.
The purpose for knowledge deprivation is to keep people ignorant, dependent on you and under control. And it just so happens...

Control
The very structure of society is one of control where each level is dependent on the one above it. The Masses depend on stores for their every need. Stores depend on distributors. Distributors depend on manufacturers and the government sits at the top of the social pyramid and regulates the entire system.
Regulation like dependence is control. If you regulate a water spout, you are controlling the amount of water that flows. The control system we all live within is undeniable and we both know who it benefits; those who have power.

Oppression
Designing and building takes both knowledge and money. In society, the masses are not allowed to accumulate the knowledge and acquire the financial wealth required to design and build for them selves. This reflects oppression.

The fact that nothing you own is of your own design is proof you are either not knowledgeable enough to design and build for yourself or you live within a system that prevents you from designing and building for yourself. There is no other explanation.

Choice
"You have no choice in the matter" is a phrase that reflects ones choices are limited in a given scenario. People in society experience this quite often because society was engineered to severely limit choices members of the Masses can make.

Choice is an illusion created between those who have power and those who do not have power. The Masses do not have power because they stand divided and are kept ignorant.

Part II - Division
When you look down upon earth you see a people who are segregated and each group speaks a different language. If two people do not understand one another's language, they stand divided.
At some point in earth's history, an event took place that accounts for the division. If the origins can be found, those who were responsible can be exposed for committing the crime of enslaving the human race.

Genesis chapter 11:1 states that there once was a time on earth when humans all spoke one language.
Genesis 11:1 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.

People who make a name for themselves do so by being united. In that state, a people can accomplish far more then if they were divided. Verse four lets us know humans in that time knew that:

2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there.

3 And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter.

4 And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.
Then you read in verse six that the "LORD" saw that humans were united as one and most importantly knew the difference between unification and division:

5 And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded.

6 And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.
A decision was then made by the "LORD" to "confound" their language. The word "confound" means "to bring to ruin: destroy, baffle or frustrate".

7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.

And verse 8 unmistakingly points to who was responsible for the division of the human race:
8 So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. 9 Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.

It is important for the reader to understand that the only crime Chapter 11 says humans were guilty of was being united as one.

The real reason why "the LORD" divided humans upon the earth was to stay in control of their slaves. I know this to be true otherwise we would not be caught up in a control system today that deprives us of knowledge.

There is no other event written about in the bible that explains why humans are divided upon the earth then the Tower of Babel story. If the bible doesn't explain why we are divided and enslaved in the modern world to those who have power, then the bible is WRONG.

The church upholds the belief that the God of the Old Testament was the Holy Trinity. If the church is true then according to the evidence you just read, Christ was an evil tyranist.
I am not willing to believe Christ was a tyranist. So the church must be in contradiction to the bible. It is as simple as that. But there is another way to prove this.

Tribulation by Design
Two thousand years ago when the Book of Revelation was written, its author made reference a Tribulation period as a future event.

Revelation 7:14 - And I said to him, My lord, you know. And he said to me, These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

In order for me to explain the significance of the biblical reference, it is important for you to understand the meaning of the word Tribulation:

Tribulation - distress or suffering resulting from oppression or persecution ; also : a trying experience

As the definition of tribulation says, distress and suffering are effects of being oppressed or persecuted. When that is realized the truth is perfectly clear. In an indirect way the Book of Revelation is telling us that the human race is enslaved by tyranny.
Tyranny is evil. The bible also says evil forces control this world:

II Corinthians 4:4; "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, . . ."

The act of blinding someone is bestowing lies upon people making them teach or preach those lies to future generations. With that in mind, the bible is actually making reference to a tumbling domino effect. Where a lie was told sometime in history and has been maintained by the generations of Man. The bible also conquers:

Revelation 12:9; And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

Remember, the Book of Revelation was written two-thousand years ago and it is specifically telling us that Satan deceived the whole world. "Hath blinded" and "Deceiveth" are past-tense which means humans were deceived even before the II Book of Corinthians and the Book of Revelation were written.

All through history people have waved the American flag and proclaimed freedom when the evidence proves we are slaves. Why then, do people continue to proclaim freedom? It is because they are not aware they are asleep and are living in a state of deception.

Those who are uneducated live in a state of unawareness.

Those who are living in a state of deception are living a lie because deception is synonymous with a lie. The Book of John also says Satan is a liar and the father of it.

John 8:44; Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

Read more at www.theforbiddenknowledge.com

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

OBAMA Releases Secret Bush Anti-Terror Memos

2009-03-02T18:51:00.002-05:00

Brought to you by YAHOO! News

Click the link below. Please read!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090302/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/terror_memos

CNBC - AMERICAN GREED

2009-02-24T20:29:00.002-05:00

In the previous post, there was a misprint on the time for American Greed on CNBC. The actual time is 1am, Thursday Feb. 25th. Many of you will be sleep. So check out the website.

Also, congrats goes out to Satrick Green (Stay'c son) for making the Lacrosse All Tournament team this past weekend. GREAT, WONDERFUL, AWESOME! - Yes, black folk play Lacrosse!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

AMERICAN GREED

2009-02-24T12:37:00.002-05:00

1 Timothy 6:9-10;”But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

There is an old joke among economists that states:
A recession is when your neighbor loses his job.
A depression is when you lose your job.

And it isn't the economists that is losing their job. It's their neighbors (meaning - people like you and I)

GREED - and more of it won't stop the pain and recession we are all in, and trying to be billionaires is the cause of woe...not the solution to it.

Sure, billionaires "appear" wealthy and "better off" than everyone else, but greed destroys the planet, and puts us all in degraded and dangerous conditions. Instead of trying to be like billionaire monsters, we need to be financially and sexually ethical...and thus gain a far greater level of well being than any billionaire will ever attain. Billionaires are gluttonous fools who face unavoidable consequences for their actions anyway.

They've screwed up like the rest of the planet. Our collective greed is where all the evil is coming from. Bogeymen like Osama or Saddam are distractions from our own bad behavior. Not everyone is an evil-doer...but collectively we are all negligent of maintaining the common good. We tolerate, and even admire the very thing that causes us all the grief.

GREED is the cause of that 911 incident...and a lot more is coming if we don't end the greed. And the fact is...if we don't end the greed...someone is going to bomb US, sooner or later. Shoot people...bomb people, and eventually somebody shoots back. Maybe not all at once...but in due time.

None of us needs the Mass insanity of a D-Day massacre. All war is bad. Every time my brother had to fight for this country, it angered me because it was all about GREED. The Presidents that are part of the Illuminati groups used the military to bully other countries because of GREED. So why war??? It's because rather than being REASONABLE...everybody expects to own a big house, fancy cars, and private jets.
Everybody expects a trillion dollars for doing as little as possible. If we end the greed...we won't lose anything except misery.

WAKE UP PEOPLE, STOP THE MADNESS!!! End the greed, and end the mass insanity that is on it's way beginning in the form of more contrived terror attacks.

Terrorism is the deliberate creation of a society of greedy maniacs who don't know what good governance even is.Government is failing us. That's because the greed infected do not even know what's wrong...much less how to fix the mess. All they see is MORE GREED. It's a lunatic insanity of "Gold Fever" where everybody kills each other off trying to jump each other's claim. We need the COMMON GOOD restored. NOT more greed.

I've been looking at this show called AMERICAN GREED on CNBC. The next episode comes on Thursday February 25, at 9pm. If you don't have time to watch check out the website. http://www.cnbc.com/id/22680920/
It's a good show to watch.

To find out more about the Illuminati groups check out this website. If you don't recall George H. Bush and George W. Bush talk about the NEW WORLD ORDER, please check this site. http://www.conspiracyarchive.com/NWO/Illuminati.htm

WAKE UP!!!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

Delonas cartoon on the New York Post online

2009-02-18T12:57:00.003-05:00

Please click the link below.

http://www.nypost.com/delonas/delonas.htm

WAKE UP MY PEOPLE!

PRODUCE THE NOTE - STOPPING FORECLOSURE

2009-02-18T10:07:00.001-05:00

Using the “produce the note” strategy is something all homeowners facing foreclosure can do. If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly, fight back. We have created templates for a legal request, a letter to your lender and a motion to compel to help you through the process.

WHO OWNS THE NOTE?
Your goal is to make certain the institution suing you is, in fact, the owner of the note (see steps to follow below). There is only one original note for your mortgage that has your signature on it. This is the document that proves you owe the debt.

During the lending boom, most mortgages were flipped and sold to another lender or servicer or sliced up and sold to investors as securitized packages on Wall Street. In the rush to turn these over as fast as possible to make the most money, many of the new lenders did not get the proper paperwork to show they own the note and mortgage. This is the key to the produce the note strategy. Now, many lenders are moving to foreclose on homeowners, resulting in part from problems they created, and don’t have the proper paperwork to prove they have a right to foreclose.

THE HARM
If you don’t challenge your lender, the court will simply allow the foreclosure to proceed. It’s important to hold lenders accountable for their carelessness. This is the biggest asset in your life. It’s just a piece of paper to them, and one they likely either lost or destroyed.

When you get a copy of the foreclosure suit, many lenders now automatically include a count to re-establish the note. It often reads like this: “…the Mortgage note has either been lost or destroyed and the Plaintiff is unable to state the manner in which this occurred.” In other words, they are admitting they don’t have the note that proves they have a right to foreclose.

If the lender is allowed to proceed without that proof, there is a possibility another institution, which may have bought your note along the way, will also try to collect the same debt from you again.

A Tennessee borrower recently had precisely that happen to her. Her lender, Ameriquest, foreclosed on her in July of 2007. About three months later, another bank sent her a default notice for the mortgage on the house she just lost. She called to find out what was going on. After being transferred from place to place and left on hold for lengthy periods of time, no one could explain what happened. They said they would get back to her, but never did. Now, she faces the risk of having her credit continually damaged for a debt she no longer owes.

FIGHT FOR FAIRNESS
This process is not intended to help you get your house for free. The primary goal is to delay the foreclosure and put pressure on the lender to negotiate. Despite all the hype about lenders wanting to help homeowners avoid foreclosure, most borrowers know that’s not the reality.
Too many homeowners have experienced lender resistance to their efforts to work out a payment structure to keep them in their homes. Many lenders bear responsibility for these defaults, because they put borrowers into unfair loans using deceptive, hard-sell practices and then made the problem worse with predatory servicing.

Most homeowners just want these lenders to give them reasonable terms on their mortgages, many of which were predatory to begin with. With the help of judges who see through these predatory practices, lenders will feel the pressure to work with borrowers to keep them in their homes. Don’t forget lenders made incredible amounts of money by using irresponsible practices to issue and service these loans. That greed led to the foreclosure crisis we’re in today. Allowing lenders to continue foreclosing on home after home, destroying our neighborhoods and our economy hurts us all. So, make it hard for your lender to take your home. Make ‘em produce the note!

STEPS TO FOLLOW
A. If your lender has already filed suit to foreclose on your home:
Use the first form. It’s a fill-in-the-blank legal request to your lender asking that the original note be produced, before it can proceed with the foreclosure. In some jurisdictions, the courts require the original request to be filed with the clerk of court and a copy of the request to be sent to the attorney representing the lender. To find out the rules where you live, call the Clerk of Court in your jurisdiction.

If the lender’s attorney does not respond within 30 days, file a motion to compel with the court and request that the court set a hearing on your motion. That, in effect, asks the judge to order the lender to produce the documents.

The judge will issue a ruling at your hearing. Many judges around the country are becoming more sympathetic to homeowners, because of the prevalence of predatory lending and servicing. In the past, many lenders have relied upon using lost note affidavits, but in many cases, that’s no longer enough to satisfy the judge. They are holding the lender to the letter of the law, requiring them to produce evidence that they are the true owners of the note. For example:

In October 2007, Ohio Federal Court Judge Christopher Boyko dismissed 14 foreclosure cases brought by investors, ruling they failed to prove they owned the properties they were trying to seize.

B. If you are in default, but your lender has not yet filed suit against you:
Use the second form. It’s a fill-in-the-blank letter to your lender which also requests they produce the original note, before taking foreclosure action against you.
If the lender does not respond and files suit against you to foreclose, follow the steps above.

You can find more information at http://www.consumerwarningnetwork.com/2008/06/19/produce-the-note-how-to/

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

Steve Harvey - Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man

2009-02-17T20:47:00.002-05:00

Stay'c made a suggestion that we should all read:

Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man

Steve Harvey

Book Description

Steve Harvey, the host of the nationally syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Show, can't count the number of impressive women he's met over the years, whether it's through the "Strawberry Letters" segment of his program or while on tour for his comedy shows. These are women who can run a small business, keep a household with three kids in tiptop shape, and chair a church group all at the same time. Yet when it comes to relationships, they can't figure out what makes men tick. Why? According to Steve it's because they're asking other women for advice when no one but another man can tell them how to find and keep a man. In Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, Steve lets women inside the mindset of a man and sheds lights on concepts and questions such as:

—The Ninety Day Rule: Ford requires it of its employees. Should you require it of your man?

—How to spot a mama's boy and what if anything you can do about it.

—When to introduce the kids. And what to read into the first interaction between your date and your kids.

—The five questions every woman should ask a man to determine how serious he is.

— And more...

Sometimes funny, sometimes direct, but always truthful, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man is a book you must read if you want to understand how men think when it comes to relationships.

Sounds like this might be an interesting book to read. What do you all think?

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

LETS LOOK AT THE WORD MORTGAGE!

2009-02-17T11:43:00.003-05:00

MORTGAGE

First lets look at the root word "MORT." MORT is the French word for "death," and comes from the Latin word "MORTUUS," meaning "dead."

I asked a friend this question, "When you look at your debt, do you include your house?"

She stated "NO" because it's an investment. The reasons she gave for it to be an investment were - You can refinance and take out equity. (Which are also loans) She listed CREDIT CARDS as her main debts.

Lets look at the definitions of MORTGAGE, REFINANCING, and EQUITY.

MORTGAGE - The pledging of property to a creditor as security for the payment of a debt.
REFINANCING - Refers to the replacement of an existing debt obligation with a debt obligation bearing different terms.
(Notice the word debt in both definitions)
EQUITY -The difference between the market value of your home and the amount you owe to the lender.
-The two main ways that people build equity in their home is by Amortization and Appreciation. (There's that root word "MORT")

Remember she stated credit cards as a debt. So, let's take a look.
-Lets say you have a credit card with a limit of $5,000. Every time you make a purchase with the card, your limit goes down. Every time you make a payment, this increases your limit. If you make your payments on time, the lower your interest rate will go. (Many refinance their mortgage to receive lower interest rates.) If you want a credit increase, you call the finance company and ask for an increase, plus you can receive cash from ATMs. (The difference between your credit limit and the amount you owe.) Hmm, sounds familiar?

You're probably wondering where I'm going with this.

Here's my conclusion...The average person purchase a MORTGAGE at the age of 30-35. The average MORTGAGE term is 30 years. So, you will be at least 60-65 before you own your home. That's if you pay it straight through without refinancing or taking out equity. The average death age is between 65-70. So, if you live past the age of 70, you will only have 5-10 years in your house. If your house isn't paid for by the time you pass away, that debt becomes your child's. If it is, the child will probably sale the house anyway.

Now, is it an investment or a debt?

My new definition for MORTGAGE is A PAYMENT OF DEBT UNTIL THE DAY YOU DIE.

Love Is In The Air!

HISTORY OF VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-13T09:47:00.002-05:00

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men — his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.
According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl — who may have been his jailor's daughter — who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.

While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial — which probably occurred around 270 A.D — others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to 'christianize' celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.

To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at the sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would then sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification.

The boys then sliced the goat's hide into strips, dipped them in the sacrificial blood and took to the streets, gently slapping both women and fields of crops with the goathide strips. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed being touched with the hides because it was believed the strips would make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city's bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage. Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine's Day around 498 A.D. The Roman 'lottery' system for romantic pairing was deemed un-Christian and outlawed. Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February — Valentine's Day — should be a day for romance. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

In Great Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one's feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine's Day greetings. Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began to sell the first mass-produced valentines in America.

According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.)

Approximately 85 percent of all valentines are purchased by women. In addition to the United States, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.

Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages (written Valentine's didn't begin to appear until after 1400), and the oldest known Valentine card is on display at the British Museum. The first commercial Valentine's Day greeting cards produced in the U.S. were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland. Howland, known as the Mother of the Valentine, made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as "scrap".

Brought to you by www.history.com

85 percent of valentines are purchased by women. Why is this, one might ask? When you read the history of Valentine's Day, it was the man that sent the letter to the woman whom he was in love with.

Can someone please enlighten me on why the percentage is so high?

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

PT and INR at a glance

2009-02-11T20:10:00.002-05:00

With the resent scare of one of our own, please click the link below to learn more about PT (Prothrombin)and INR(International Normalized Ratio)

http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/pt/glance.html

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

SPRING MEETING

2009-02-11T18:49:00.002-05:00

Hola!

The first S.P.I.R.I.T meeting for the year 2009 will be held sometime in the spring. The date, time, and location will be announced later.

Marcia put her thinking cap on and came up with a GREAT, WONDERFUL, AWESOME idea. She visioned us starting our own small business. Many can use some extra money in this day and time. So, we need everyone to put their thinking caps on, and come up with some creative ideas. Bring those ideas to the meeting.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

The word RELATIONSHIP!

2009-02-10T18:06:00.005-05:00

When you look up the word relationship. You will notice several different definitions for this one word. For most, this word is only used when talking about a romantic or sexual involvement. We need to expand our horizon when using this word.

I was talking with a friend the other day and we started a conversation about "What things define a TRUE FRIEND in your eyes?" The key words are YOUR EYES! Because as individuals we see and view things differently. She gave her vision of a true friend and I did also. Yes, there were some characteristics that were the same, but there were many that wasn't.

Take a look at the word FRIEND. Think for a moment, and your final thought should be RELATIONSHIP. BEING SOMEONE'S FRIEND - IS BEING IN A RELATIONSHIP! Here's another definition of the word relationship - A particular type of connection existing between people related to or having dealings with each other. (American Heritage Dictionary)

Now, being a friend there must be some compromising going on. Yes, you have your best friend and yes you all think alike, have the same style, eat the same food, and enjoy the same movies, etc. But there are some differences mentally, emotionally, and even physically. This is were the compromising develops. If you want the friendship to work, you will be the type of friend that is needed by the other person. Let me repeat that - IF YOU WANT THE FRIENDSHIP TO WORK, YOU WILL BE THE TYPE OF FRIEND THAT IS NEEDED BY THE OTHER PERSON.

Now, I'm not suggesting that if your friend ask you to do something crazy, you should do it. The key word is - NEED!

Example, when your friend upsets you - do you let your friend know right at the moment of you becoming upset? Or do you end the conversation and not talk to your friend for several days or maybe months before you let them know they made you upset.

This was one of the questions in the conversation with my friend. One person stated that they would tell their friend - "Ok, what you just said upset me!" and that they needed that type of response from their friend also. While the other person stated they wouldn't let their friend know the moment they upset them, and that they would wait several days before bringing it up. And this type of response is okay if they upset their friend.

This is were the compromising of respecting each other need for response. One person need quick response, while the other needed several days. Knowing each others needs and compromising will make everlasting friendships. A friendship is like a marriage without the legal documents. It will never be 50/50 always. Sometimes it will be 80/20, 70/30, or maybe 60/40., etc.

Looking at marriage, which connects with the word relationship - If you want the marriage to work, there's alot of compromising regarding each other needs. It's not about what you want because wanting something isn't a necessity, it's being selfish!

The word relationship connects to Siblings, Yourself, Your Co-workers, Your Supervisor. The only time this word is in connection with another noun is when you're asked "How's your relationship with GOD?"

When you're at work, and you have that irritating co-worker. What do you do? You either avoid them, or you compromise so that things will go smoothly. The same with your irritating Supervisor and if you're the Supervisor, it's the same with the irritating employee.

In conclusion, when dealing with the word relationship - Expand your horizon and remember to compromise only if you want it to work.

So, the next time someone ask you "How's your relationship? Please respond, "Which one?"

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

Updated comment on UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

2009-02-09T18:54:00.003-05:00

There was a comment posted on Unconditional Love and I totally forgot to respond, so I'm responding now. Below is the comment and my respond.

If any S.P.I.R.I.T member would like to add a comment, please feel free to do so.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
Why Unconditional Love? Unconditional Love is a dynamic and powerful energy that lifts us through the most difficult times. It is available at any moment by turning our attention to it and using its wonderful potential to free us from our limitations. It requires practice and intent to allow this energy to fully permeate our daily experience. It begins with ourselves, for without self-love, we cannot know what true love can be. In loving ourselves, we allow the feeling to generate within us and then we can share it to everyone and everything around us! That which we send out, returns to us in greater measure. If you have not thought about how you feel towards yourself, physically, mentally, and emotionally, or spiritually, we invite you to do so now. Begin the journey that changes everything. Begin the journey of unconditional love...
posted by Tedi @ 1:13 PM

2 Comments:
At 11:12 AM, ucanexhalenow said…

First, I would like to thank God for women like yourselves. I am not a woman responding to your website but a man who loves women but particularly strong women. I read your insert regarding "unconditional love" and I agree we all should strive to achieve unconditional love. I wanted to ask the following question to any of you that would like to respond, because I can't find the answer. Maybe you can shed some light on this matter for me.
As of late women have gained many equal rights in several different areas such as business equity, voting rights and now the biggest push is in the world sports. Here is the question.....Why have so many women decided to neglect the desire to be a wife, a best friend, have children and be committed to one man. Especially, when the man is a God fearing, family and career oriented man. Women now would much rather engage in other lifestyles other than what God wants there to be and are more than willing to live a life of permiscuity. I understand for many of years and probably since the beginning, men has ventured outside of the sacred relationship of matrimony which I agree is wrong. I am a man who is willing to admit that I am in love with a woman I haven't been around for years and when I attempt to communicate with her she is always busy. I could see if I were messing with other women but I have been working my butt off to be able to be with her but more importantly put us in a position to prosper so we can catch up on what we have missed over the past 15 years. Can you help me, should I forget about love or continue to pursue this woman? Your answer would be appreciated and it doesn't matter who answers it.

At 6:47 PM, Tedi said…

Responds to ucanexhalenow:

I'm making sure I have your question correct - Why have women decided to neglect the desire to be a wife, a best friend, have children, and be committed to one man?

My answer is not the answer for all women, this is my own thoughts and views.

It's not that women made a decision to neglect, we were forced. So, we just decided to pursue other goals. Women have been there for men since the beginning. We have catered to your needs, without thinking of our own. We have been single parents longer than the law allows, and we have been the one to get the children up for church while the man stayed at home and watched football. Many men haven't been there for women. They used and abused the woman, don't spend time with the children, and never giving the woman what she deserves.

Like the song by R. Kelley - "When A Woman Is Feed Up!" She moves on, but it takes alot for her to do so. When the man makes a woman feel invisible, he is the one that's neglecting the relationship, neglecting going to church, and neglecting to spend time with the kids. So, he forces the woman to pursue other things that will complete her.

It's nice to know that there are still God fearing, family, and career oriented men like you still out there. But it must be something else this woman that you've been chasing for 15 years is looking for in a man. You know, being attracted to someone plays a big part in a relationship also. So, maybe you should talk to this woman and find out where her mind is concerning you. Maybe she wants to reach certain goals before she gets married. Just because you're ready, doesn't mean that she is ready. Also, marriage isn't for everyone. It doesn't say that all people must be married in the bible. You can live the life of the LORD without being married!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!

A Moment In Black History

2009-02-07T22:25:00.000-05:00

My trip to Washington DC

2009-02-07T19:28:00.005-05:00

Wow!

Where do I start? My trip to Washington DC for the Inauguration of President Barack Obama was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life. There were people from all over the world there to see Barack Obama sworn in as President. This was not only history in the making for America. It was history all over the world. I met people from China, Sweden, Brazil, Africa, Jamaica, England, and from places all around the United States.

As a young girl growing up in the south, I've always heard,read, saw movies about how things were for Black Americans, and today many of those things still exsist. Lets just say, they have been upgraded with the time. Many in my family including myself have experienced prejudice and racism. Yes, this country has come along way, but we still have a long way to go. I remember talking to one of my friends a couple of years ago and I stated that we needed a new leader. In the black community, we had the old leaders like Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, and Minister Louis Farrakhan etc. We needed a new face, a new start, someone that wasn't holding hatred or bitterness towards others. We needed a leader not just for black Americans but for all Americans.

My father would always say, "the rich will get richer and the poor will suffer and suffer." Looking at the economy the way it is now, he is right. I would say that Barack Obama came into place at the right time. Many wanted George W.Bush out and wanted someone who had different views from the Bush Administration, plus someone who really cared about the American people. To me, it was an act of GOD! He placed Obama and gave the people faith to believe in him. So I say, when you say your prayers, say a prayer for the Obama family. Alot of pressure is on this man, and he will need alot of positive support. Not only because he's a black man, but because this country is looking for a miracle. And we all know, he's not Jesus!

The one thing I'm sad about is that my mother wasn't here to witness this moment. She would be so proud. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU MOM!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR!
Tedra

Inauguration 2009

2009-02-07T19:23:00.002-05:00

SHOE THROWN AT PRESIDENT BUSH

2008-12-15T09:56:00.002-05:00

Want to see shoes thrown at President Bush?

Click the link and enjoy!

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-shoe15-2008dec15,0,1930513.story?track=rss

LOOKING TO LOSE WEIGHT

2008-12-10T20:20:00.003-05:00

Hey you! Are you looking to lose weight? Check out this site www.bettysweightloss.com/my/story1/weight-loss.html

On this site, Betty talks about how she lost weight with only two steps.
1. Acai-Noni Burner and 2. Total Colon Cleanse

It also features clips from the Oprah Winfrey show and Fox.

Brought to you by: YAHOO! HEALTH

2008-12-02T13:08:00.001-05:00

Lots of TV and Web harms kids' health

By Will Dunham Will Dunham – Tue Dec 2, 9:50 am ET

Reuters – A family watches television in an undated photo. Spending a lot of time watching TV, playing video games …

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Spending a lot of time watching TV, playing video games and surfing the Web makes children more prone to a range of health problems including obesity and smoking, U.S. researchers said on Tuesday.

U.S. National Institutes of Health, Yale University and the California Pacific Medical Center experts analyzed 173 studies done since 1980 in one of the most comprehensive assessments to date on how exposure to media sources impacts the physical health of children and adolescents.
The studies, most conducted in the United States, largely focused on television, but some looked at video games, films, music, and computer and Internet use. Three quarters of them found that increased media viewing was associated with negative health outcomes.

The studies offered strong evidence that children who get more media exposure are more likely to become obese, start smoking and begin earlier sexual activity than those who spend less time in front of a screen, the researchers said.

Studies also indicated more media exposure also was linked to drug and alcohol use and poorer school performance, while the evidence was less clear about an association with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, they added.

"I think we were pretty surprised by how overwhelming the number of studies was that showed this negative health impact," NIH bioethicist Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, one of the researchers in the report released by the advocacy group Common Sense Media, said in a telephone interview.
"The fact that it was probably more a matter of quantity than actual content is also a concern. We have a media-saturated life right now in the 21st century. And reducing the number of hours of exposure is going to be a big issue."

Experts for decades have worried about the impact on young viewers of the violence and sexual content in some TV programs, movies and video games. Another issue is that kids are spending time sitting on a couch watching TV or playing computer games when they could be running around outside.

One study cited in the report found that children who spent more than eight hours watching TV per week at age 3 were more likely to be obese at 7. And research shows that many U.S. children, even toddlers, watch far more.

Dr. Cary Gross of Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut, another of the researchers, said TV and other media content can have a profound impact on children's attitudes and beliefs, most notably among teens.

He cited a U.S. study by the RAND research organization published in November that showed that adolescents who watched more programing with sexual themes had a higher risk of becoming pregnant or causing a pregnancy.

Thirteen of 14 studies that evaluated sexual behavior found an association between media exposure and earlier initiation of sexual behavior, the researchers said.

TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE IN 2009

2008-11-24T12:50:00.002-05:00

TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE IN 2009

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.
3. Buy a DVR and tape your late night shows and get more sleep.
4. When you wake up in the morning complete the Following statement, 'My purpose is to __________ today.
5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
6. Play more games and read more books than you did in 2007.
7. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, and prayer. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.
8. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
9. Dream more while you are awake.
10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
11. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13. Clear clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.
14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy Vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.
17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vam pires away.
18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
22. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?
26. Forgive everyone for everything.
27. What other people think of you is none of your business.
28. GOD heals almost everything.
29. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
30. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.<>
31. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
32. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
33. The best is yet to come.
34. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
35. Do the right thing!
36. Call your family often. (Or email them to death!!!) Hey I'm thinking of ya!
37. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished _________.
38. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
39. Enjoy the ride. Remember this is not Disney World and you certainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.

May your troubles be less, May your blessings be more, May nothing but happiness come through your door!

LOVE TRIANGLES

2008-11-16T20:53:00.003-05:00

Caught up in a love triangle? Check out this article from Phelan on www.malewitch.com

Love Triangles

Love is a free flowing energy that is housed in the Universe; love is available for any strong-hearted individual who has the intestinal fortitude to take a dive into its never-ending pool! Those who take the plunge either swim to victory or sink to the bottom like the titanic going down for the second time around!

The problem with most people is pretty basic, they claim to want and desire love, but very few rarely know exactly what that means or how to obtain it, and those who do acquire it, often fear loosing it so much that they strangle the life right out of their relationship.

The definition of love is different for everyone; no two people on the planet will ever share the same definition or point of view when it comes to love, why you may ask? The main reason is that as human beings we attach our own feelings to the energy, which is love, thus defining and personalizing the definition to suit our own needs, and no two people share the exact same feeling or emotion, our feelings and emotions are unique unto our own incarnation and the manner in which we deal with our lovers will determine the lessons in love that we have to learn the next time around!

The interesting thing that I have found in dealing with my clients over the years is the choices that are made when choosing a partner, I would say that 80% of the individuals who have contacted me in reference to another person meddling or interfering in their relationship has played a role in putting that person in between them and the one that they love, maybe not directly, but indirectly yes, by choosing a partner who is emotionally unavailable or otherwise attached to someone else, which is the exact way that most love triangles are formed to begin with.

Love triangles like it or not often form some pretty unsightly situations and result in forming some of the most unpleasant lessons that we have to learn, and as a result we no longer just share the karma that is created with our mate of choice, but we share karma with our third wheel as well, so it is necessary to try and settle the karma in a positive manner if we are ever going to be able to partake in our relationship 100% and feel good about doing it.

I would say that a positive approach to finding a resolution starts with disengaging from the situation and taking a step back and assessing all of the elements and players involved, and start by asking yourself some pretty honest and clear questions.

1: Am I attracted to this individual because he or she happens to be emotionally unavailable and cannot commit to a relationship with me 100%?
2: Is it the person that I love or the chase?
3: If the other individual weren't involved would I still want him or her on the same level?
4: Do I feel love in my heart or is it simply lust in my loins?
5: If this individual commits to me, am I ready to reciprocate the commitment?
6: Am I motivated by need or greed?
7: My mate was already committed to someone else prior to our involvement, did I pursue him or her or did he/she pursue me?

If you knowingly go after someone who is already involved in a relationship you may be setting yourself up for a life filled with misery, everybody handles love and their commitments differently and what may seem like a disaster waiting to happen to you may seem like heaven to them and in most cases the difficulties that arise from your actions will cancel out the few stolen moments of pleasure that you may experience while in their company, it is far better to be patient and allow the relationship to end of its own accord than it is to involve yourself in a situation that you will have little or no control over.

Love triangles are often formed without the consent of all parties involved and if this is the case where you are concerned and if your mate was deceptive then you have every right to defend your honor and your feelings, if you committed yourself in good faith without prior knowledge of your mate's involvement with another, it is your mate who will rack up the negative karma, however once you have knowledge of the deceptiveness you must handle yourself accordingly to insure that you will free yourself from any karmic responsibility or repercussions!

I hope this article is informative and I hope that it gives you something to consider and to think about, if I can be of assistance to you in any way please do not hesitate to contact me.

Blessed be, Phelan

THE STORY OF THANKSGIVING

2008-11-10T19:56:00.003-05:00

The Pilgrims set ground at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620. Their first winter was devastating. At the beginning of the following fall, they had lost 46 of the original 102 who sailed on the Mayflower. But the harvest of 1621 was a bountiful one. And the remaining colonists decided to celebrate with a feast -- including 91 Indians who had helped the Pilgrims survive their first year. It is believed that the Pilgrims would not have made it through the year without the help of the natives. The feast was more of a traditional English harvest festival than a true "thanksgiving" observance. It lasted three days.

Governor William Bradford sent "four men fowling" after wild ducks and geese. It is not certain that wild turkey was part of their feast. However, it is certain that they had venison. The term "turkey" was used by the Pilgrims to mean any sort of wild fowl.

Another modern staple at almost every Thanksgiving table is pumpkin pie. But it is unlikely that the first feast included that treat. The supply of flour had been long diminished, so there was no bread or pastries of any kind. However, they did eat boiled pumpkin, and they produced a type of fried bread from their corn crop. There was also no milk, cider, potatoes, or butter. There was no domestic cattle for dairy products, and the newly-discovered potato was still considered by many Europeans to be poisonous. But the feast did include fish, berries, watercress, lobster, dried fruit, clams, venison, and plums.

This "thanksgiving" feast was not repeated the following year. Many years passed before the event was repeated. It wasn't until June of 1676 that another Day of thanksgiving was proclaimed. On June 20 of that year the governing council of Charlestown, Massachusetts, held a meeting to determine how best to express thanks for the good fortune that had seen their community securely established. By unanimous vote they instructed Edward Rawson, the clerk, to proclaim June 29 as a day of thanksgiving. It is notable that this thanksgiving celebration probably did not include the Indians, as the celebration was meant partly to be in recognition of the colonists' recent victory over the "heathen natives," (see the proclamation).

A hundred years later, in October of 1777 all 13 colonies joined in a thanksgiving celebration. It also commemorated the patriotic victory over the British at Saratoga. But it was a one-time affair.

George Washington proclaimed a National Day of Thanksgiving in 1789, although some were opposed to it. There was discord among the colonies, many feeling the hardships of a few pilgrims did not warrant a national holiday. And later, President Thomas Jefferson opposed the idea of having a day of thanksgiving.

It was Sarah Josepha Hale, a magazine editor, whose efforts eventually led to what we recognize as Thanksgiving. Hale wrote many editorials championing her cause in her Boston Ladies' Magazine, and later, in Godey's Lady's Book. Finally, after a 40-year campaign of writing editorials and letters to governors and presidents, Hale's obsession became a reality when, in 1863, President Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November as a national day of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving was proclaimed by every president after Lincoln. The date was changed a couple of times, most recently by Franklin Roosevelt, who set it up one week to the next-to-last Thursday in order to create a longer Christmas shopping season. Public uproar against this decision caused the president to move Thanksgiving back to its original date two years later. And in 1941, Thanksgiving was finally sanctioned by Congress as a legal holiday, as the fourth Thursday in November. (Courtesy of wilstart.com)

click to see the video: www.history.com/minisites/thanksgiving

Wake Up America!

2008-11-10T13:26:00.002-05:00

Read the letter below that was written to President Clinton and take a look at the names that are listed on the letter.

Many believe that President Clinton was run out of office because of the Monica Lewinsky scandal, but If you look deep into your thoughts you will see that he didn't respond to the removal of Saddeim Hussein's regime of power in a timely matter. So, a master plan of his removal had to take place. They needed someone who would react at any means necessary.

Check out this website: www.newamericancentury.org

THE LETTER:

January 26, 1998

The Honorable William J. Clinton
President of the United States
Washington, DC

Dear Mr. President:

We are writing you because we are convinced that current American policy toward Iraq is not succeeding, and that we may soon face a threat in the Middle East more serious than any we have known since the end of the Cold War. In your upcoming State of the Union Address, you have an opportunity to chart a clear and determined course for meeting this threat. We urge you to seize that opportunity, and to enunciate a new strategy that would secure the interests of the U.S. and our friends and allies around the world. That strategy should aim, above all, at the removal of Saddam Hussein’s regime from power. We stand ready to offer our full support in this difficult but necessary endeavor.

The policy of “containment” of Saddam Hussein has been steadily eroding over the past several months. As recent events have demonstrated, we can no longer depend on our partners in the Gulf War coalition to continue to uphold the sanctions or to punish Saddam when he blocks or evades UN inspections. Our ability to ensure that Saddam Hussein is not producing weapons of mass destruction, therefore, has substantially diminished. Even if full inspections were eventually to resume, which now seems highly unlikely, experience has shown that it is difficult if not impossible to monitor Iraq’s chemical and biological weapons production. The lengthy period during which the inspectors will have been unable to enter many Iraqi facilities has made it even less likely that they will be able to uncover all of Saddam’s secrets. As a result, in the not-too-distant future we will be unable to determine with any reasonable level of confidence whether Iraq does or does not possess such weapons.

Such uncertainty will, by itself, have a seriously destabilizing effect on the entire Middle East. It hardly needs to be added that if Saddam does acquire the capability to deliver weapons of mass destruction, as he is almost certain to do if we continue along the present course, the safety of American troops in the region, of our friends and allies like Israel and the moderate Arab states, and a significant portion of the world’s supply of oil will all be put at hazard. As you have rightly declared, Mr. President, the security of the world in the first part of the 21st century will be determined largely by how we handle this threat.

Given the magnitude of the threat, the current policy, which depends for its success upon the steadfastness of our coalition partners and upon the cooperation of Saddam Hussein, is dangerously inadequate. The only acceptable strategy is one that eliminates the possibility that Iraq will be able to use or threaten to use weapons of mass destruction. In the near term, this means a willingness to undertake military action as diplomacy is clearly failing. In the long term, it means removing Saddam Hussein and his regime from power. That now needs to become the aim of American foreign policy.

We urge you to articulate this aim, and to turn your Administration's attention to implementing a strategy for removing Saddam's regime from power. This will require a full complement of diplomatic, political and military efforts. Although we are fully aware of the dangers and difficulties in implementing this policy, we believe the dangers of failing to do so are far greater. We believe the U.S. has the authority under existing UN resolutions to take the necessary steps, including military steps, to protect our vital interests in the Gulf. In any case, American policy cannot continue to be crippled by a misguided insistence on unanimity in the UN Security Council.

We urge you to act decisively. If you act now to end the threat of weapons of mass destruction against the U.S. or its allies, you will be acting in the most fundamental national security interests of the country. If we accept a course of weakness and drift, we put our interests and our future at risk.

Sincerely,
Elliott Abrams Richard L. Armitage William J. Bennett
Jeffrey Bergner John Bolton Paula Dobriansky
Francis Fukuyama Robert Kagan Zalmay Khalilzad
William Kristol Richard Perle Peter W. Rodman
Donald Rumsfeld William Schneider, Jr. Vin Weber
Paul Wolfowitz R. James Woolsey Robert B. Zoellick

ONE MOMENT IN TIME

2008-11-10T10:44:00.008-05:00

I really love this song by Whitney Houston. It's a song of inspiration, hope, faith, and perseverance.

One small step for man, one giant step for ALL KIND!

Barack Obama - 44th President of the United States of America!

ONE MOMENT IN TIME: WHITNEY HOUSTON

Each day I live I want to be
A day to give The best of me
I'm only one But not alone
My finest day Is yet unknown
I broke my heart For every gain
To taste the sweet I faced the pain
I rise and fall Yet through it all
This much remains

Chorus:
I want one moment in time
When I'm more than I thought I could be
When all of my dreams Are a heartbeat away
And the answers are all up to me
Give me one moment in time
When I'm racing with destiny
Then in that one moment in time
I will feel, I will feel eternity

I've lived to be
The very best I want it all
No time for less I've laid my plans
Now lay the chance Here in my hands

Chorus
You're a winner
For a lifetime If you seize that
One moment in time Make it shine

Chorus:
Then in that one moment in time
I will be, I will be free

Click to see video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EbYmMb4lR4

PRESIDENT-ELECT: BARACK OBAMA 2008

2008-11-10T10:35:00.004-05:00

"Today we began in earnest the work of making sure that the world we

leave our children is just a little better than the one we inhabit today."

President Elect Barack Obama

Share you story and your ideas, and be a part of bringing positive lasting change to this country.

http://www.change.gov/

DID YOU KNOW?

2008-03-02T22:03:00.001-05:00

ALL ABOUT EASTER

Easter bunny originates from ancient Anglo-Saxon carnival
The ancient Anglo-Saxons celebrated the return of spring with a carnival commemorating their goddess of offspring and of springtime, Eostre. The word carnival possibly originated from the Latin 'carne vale' meaning "flesh, farewell" or "meat, farewell." The offerings were rabbits and coloured eggs, bidding an end to winter.

As it happened, the pagan festival of Eostre occurred at the same time of year as the Christian observance of the Resurrection of Christ and it didn't take the Christian missionaries long to convert the Anglo-Saxons when they encountered them in the 2nd century. The offering of rabbits and eggs eventually (in the 8th century, it is thought) became the Easter bunny and Easter eggs.

Prior to 325 AD, Easter was variously celebrated on different days of the week, including Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. In that year, the Council of Nicaea was convened by emperor Constantine. It issued the Easter Rule which states that Easter shall be celebrated on the first Sunday that occurs after the first full moon on or after the vernal equinox. The "full moon" in the rule is the ecclesiastical full moon, which is defined as the 14th day of a tabular lunation, where day 1 corresponds to the ecclesiastical New Moon. It does not always occur on the same date as the astronomical full moon. The ecclesiastical "vernal equinox" is always on 21st March. Therefore, Easter must be celebrated on the first Sunday after 21st March.

Christians commemorate the Friday before Easter as Good Friday, the day that Jesus was crucified. Easter Sunday is celebrated as the day Jesus rose again

Reality Creator: Create Your Own World

2008-02-18T10:02:00.006-05:00

This information was taken from the website: www.wisdomsdoor.com

Does you mind wander regularly – jumping from topic to topic? In other words, if you counted the amount of things your mind dwelled on, during a given hour, would the number be above five items? Anything above five items, in a one hour period, points to mind-wandering. Mind wandering is one of the more subtle ways you undermine your reality control and a sure sign you have the makings of an untamed beast.
Do you continually look on the negative side of things? A negative outlook on your life is a sign that your emotions are controlling your consciousness – not you! Emotions, when used properly, can be a good motivator of reality creating. However, when you allow your emotions free reign, the beastly side of them takes over. Emotional runaway is the most destructive form of reality control and another strong indicator of a wild beast within.
Do you often feel mentally drained? Continual mental fatigue is an indication of poor inner-power regulation. With inadequate inner-power and poor inner-power control you can expect anything and everything to control your life. If you lack the inner-power and strength necessary to make the needed changes in your world, all the mental control in the world is not going to help you. Poor inner-power management is another way of self-defeating reality control and yet another example of something savage going on within you.
Do you consciously understand the mechanics behind thought-creation? Not knowing how a device operates – especially an inner device – can greatly hinder your ability to use it. A computer is no good if you haven’t a clue how to operate it! Thought-creation is the same. Your consciousness needs to understand how to operate the inner and outer devices that enable you to control your world. Otherwise, you’ll be like a wild animal searching for food, operating on instinct alone. While the animal may eat, it may not eat well or at all on some days. So, if you don’t understand these inner and outer creation devices, your consciousness is operating on instinct alone and is operating on a very primitive level.

I’m sure many of you answered ‘yes’ to some of these questions. Answering ‘yes’ does not make you a misfit; it just makes you unlearned. Being unlearned in the way consciousness does its job is inefficient and a waste of your personal resources. Because you live in a fast-changing world, deliberate reality control becomes a necessity. You must learn how to tame that beast, so that you can make your world the best it can be, for yourself and for others.

With a controlled and tamed consciousness you can expect some changes in the way things happen in your life. For one thing, nothing unpleasant will surprise you. You will create the world you want and need. There will be no lurking ugliness that will spring up at the last minute. If you do get ugliness, you will be aware of it well in advance because you will be aware of yourself creating it. Your mind will no longer be an unchartered territory. You will be fully aware of the contents of your mind at any given time. Plus, you will understand why you react in certain ways and in certain situations. When an awkward, unwanted, or an unusual situation arises, you will have the power to act and the power to move that situation in a direction that is desirable to you. You will be the master of your fate and the helmsman of your destiny.

You create your world! No other statement is more true. Now it is your job to learn how. Take the first step toward controlling your reality, and we can help you with the second. Recognize, at least a little, that you can and do have the power to create your world. You’ve been doing it for years, since you were born and before. Then, let’s take that second step together and learn how to properly use those inner tools – inner tools that will enable you to control the greatest gift in your possession, your own consciousness.

Worksheet Notes:
On the next page is your first worksheet. It is a questionnaire designed to show you your present level of reality creating ability. Please take the time to fill in the questionnaire because the real power in this questionnaire will reveal itself when you come back to it, after you’ve finished the “Hermes’ Reality Creator I” course and retake the test. Your new score will show you how much you have progressed and how much farther you need to work the Reality Creating Game. Each question is designed to alert you to a different area of reality creating skill.

Question one shows you how positively you think about your reality.
Question two shows you how well you can control your lower self, your more base instincts, the animal part of you, if you will.
Question three shows you how well you can keep your mind focused in the present moment.
Question four shows you how well you can regulate your inner power (energy).
Question five shows you how easily you can be coerced by others.

After you take the test, then move on to the next chapter, but keep in mind the areas that you need to work on. As we get to that part of the book, you may want to pay extra attention to that section.

Chapter 1 / You Create Your World Worksheet Page

Instructions:
Answer the questions below by selecting only the answer that best describes your actions. Then record the point value for the letter you selected at the right. After answering the questions, tally up your answers by adding the point value for each answer and recording that number on the space provided. Then use the legend to determine how well you can control your consciousness in creating your reality. Remember to take this test again, after you’ve completed the “Hermes’ Reality Creator I” course. Then compare the new score with the old one and see how well you have improved.

POINT VALUE: (a = 25 points) (b = 50 points) (c = 75 points) (d = 100 points)
LEGEND: 500 points – you are a Master Reality Creator
400 to 475 points – you are a Reality Guru
200 to 375 points – you are a Struggling Reality Adept
125 to 175 points – you are a Master of Disaster

1. When a crisis arises, do you: 1.____
a: imagine the worst outcome
b: first imagine a negative outcome then think about better ones
c: first imagine positive outcome but then think about negative ones
d: imagine only the best outcome

2. When you are hungry and can’t eat for sometime, do you: 2.____
a: think about food constantly, even imagining it
b: think about food but don’t imagine it
c: fight to keep your mind on what you are doing and off the food
d: realize that you need food then put it out of your mind for later

3. When listening to someone talk to you, does your mind: 3.____
a: think about other things while listening and not even know what has been said
b: think about other things while listening but know what has been said
c: occasionally drift off the conversation
d: focus intently on the conversation

4. How would you rate your overall energy level? 4.____
a: I usually feel tired, lifeless, and without any drive most of the day
b: I usually feel tired and lifeless after some moderate interaction with others
c: I usually feel alive and alert, but after certain people or activities, I feel drained
d: I usually feel alive and alert and powerful most of the day

5. When I’m in a group situation or interacting with others I feel that: 5.____
a: I have little willpower and usually do whatever anyone in the group asks or wants to do
b: I have little willpower and usually do only what the majority wants to do
c: I’m in control of myself and my actions except when I’m around certain people
d: I’m in complete control of myself and my actions at all times, no mater who I am with

TOTAL POINTS. _________

THE FOUR BLESSED LOOKS

2007-10-18T11:52:00.000-04:00

THE FOUR BLESSED LOOKS
Look back and Thank God.
Look forward and Trust God.
Look around and Serve God.
Look within and Find God!"

"I asked God, 'How do I get the best out of life?' God said, 'Face your past without regrets. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear!'" "Without God, our week is: Mournday, Tearsday, Wasteday, Thirstday, Fightday, Shatterday and Sinday. So, allow Him to be with you every day!" "Life is short, so forgive quickly. Believe slowly. Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably. Never regret anything that makes you happy. And have a wonderful journey!!!"

Satan's Tactics to Destroy Believers

2007-10-10T21:47:00.000-04:00

Satan's Tactics to Destroy Believers----------------------------------------------------------Satan called a worldwide convention. In his opening address to his evil angels, he said,"We can't keep the Christians from going to church.We can't keep them from reading their Bibles & knowing the Truth. We can't even keep them from conservative values. But we can do something else. We can keep them from forming an intimate, abiding experience in Christ.If they gain that connection with Jesus, our power overthem is broken.""So let them go to church, let them have their conservative lifestyles, but steal their time, so they can't gain that experience in Jesus Christ.""This is what I want you to do, angels. Distract them from gaining hold of their Savior & maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!""How shall we do this?", shouted his angels."Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life & invent un-numbered schemes to occupy their minds", he answered."Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, then, borrow, borrow, borrow. Convince the wives to go to work & the husbands towork 6 or 7 days a week, 10-12 hrs. a day, so they canafford their lifestyles. Keep them from spending time with their children. As their family fragments, soon,their homes will offer no escape from the pressures ofwork.""Over stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still small voice. Entice them to play the radio orcassette player whenever they drive, to keep the TV,the VCR, & their CD's going constantly in their homes.And see to it that every store & restaurant in the world plays music constantly. This will jam their minds & break that union with Christ. Fill their coffee tables with magazines & newspapers. Pound theirminds with the news 24 hrs. a day. Invade their driving moments with billboards. Flood their mail boxes with junk mail, sweepstakes, mail order catalogues, & everykind of newsletter & promotional offering, free products,services, & false hopes.""Even in their recreation, let them be excessive. Have them return from their recreation exhausted, disquieted& unprepared for the coming week. Don't let them go out in nature. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events,concerts & movies instead. And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip & small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences & unsettled emotion.""Let them be involved in soul-winning. But crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Christ. Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health & family unity for the good of the cause."It was quite a convention in the end. And the evil angels went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get busy, busy, busy & rush here & there.---------------------------------------------------------
Has the devil been successful at his scheme? You be the judge

www.theforbiddenknowledge.com

LINDA'S BIRTHDAY

2007-09-24T12:17:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LINDA!

The SPIRIT sisters want to wish Linda a HAPPY BIRTHDAY. We had a wonderful time at the Waverly Hotel for Brunch. http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/atlrb-renaissance-waverly-hotel/

The variety of food was GREAT! The atmosphere was very relaxing.

TEDRA'S BIRTHDAY PARTY -

2007-09-21T13:14:00.000-04:00

I JUST WANT TO THANK MY SPIRIT SISTERS FOR MY GROOVY 70s PARTY.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

2007-09-21T13:13:00.000-04:00

Why Unconditional Love? Unconditional Love is a dynamic and powerful energy that lifts us through the most difficult times. It is available at any moment by turning our attention to it and using its wonderful potential to free us from our limitations. It requires practice and intent to allow this energy to fully permeate our daily experience. It begins with ourselves, for without self-love, we cannot know what true love can be. In loving ourselves, we allow the feeling to generate within us and then we can share it to everyone and everything around us! That which we send out, returns to us in greater measure. If you have not thought about how you feel towards yourself, physically, mentally, and emotionally, or spiritually, we invite you to do so now. Begin the journey that changes everything. Begin the journey of unconditional love...

Congratulation Crystal

2007-03-17T01:28:00.000-04:00

Congrats goes out to Crystal for her job promotion.

Happy Birthday Marcia

2007-03-17T01:23:00.000-04:00

Happy belated birthday goes out to Marcia. Marcia's birthday was celebrated at SAGE in downtown Decatur. www.thebistros.com/sage_home.htm

Marcia would like to invite the S.P.I.R.I.T family to Kelsey's birthday party on March 24th. This event will take place at Marcia's house.

SPONDIVITS CORRECTION

2007-01-24T13:57:00.000-05:00

Correction: This is not the location of the next meeting. The next meeting will be at my (Stacy) birthday dinner.

SPONDIVITS
This is a celebration for Janai's birthday, if you are interested in bringing your child (or self) to eat dinner with Janai on her birthday, you're more than welcome to attend this celebration at Spondivits.

Your President

Information on cruise and next meeting

2007-01-24T13:28:00.000-05:00

MEETING INFORMATION :
The location for our next meeting will be at Spondivits (Buckhead Village)
360 Pharr Road, Atlanta, GA
404-869-9100

CRUISE INFORMATION:
Also, it's not too late for your deposit, but it must be mailed ASAP.
(FOR MORE CRUISE INFORMATION - CLICK ON THE CRUISE LINK LOCATED ON THE RIGHT AT THE BOTTOM)

Meeting on January 19, 2007

2007-01-23T10:23:00.000-05:00

The S.P.I.R.I.T meeting minutes are as follows.

Marcia, the club treasurer brought the meeting to order and reported the budget balance brought forth to be $235.00. Please find below the items that were discussed and agreed upon for the year 2007.

S.P.I.R.I.T meetings will now be held during birthday dinners as opposed to having the monthly meetings as well as birthday dinners.

*Because the number of birthday club members has dwindled, the new dinner limit is now $25.

*Birthday club members who are unable to attend the dinners are to send five dollars with another club member so as not to financially burden other club members and to help defray costs.

*The next scheduled S.P.I.R.I.T. outing will be on February 2, 2007 @ 8:00 p.m. at Spondivits Restaurant.

*There is an upcoming cruise scheduled for Saturday September 1, 2007 thru Thursday *September 6, 2007 to Ocho Rios and the Cayman Islands.
Interested parties should contact the Social Events Coordinator Tedra Eberhart ASAP for further details.

*Birthday honorees will decide what day during their birthday month that they would like to go out for the dinner.

*We also decided to use some of the money in the previously reported budget to do something special for the kids. Details to be announced at a later date.

*We also decided that we would like have a card party / fish fry at Linda’s House. Further details, costs, etc. to be announced.

The meeting was adjourned @ 10:30 p.m. after a delicious meal of pizza and soda.

TTFN
Crystal

Meeting on January 19, 2007 @ 8 pm

2007-01-17T11:00:00.000-05:00

There will be a meeting on January 19, 2007 at Marcia's house.

In this meeting, ideas will be discussed about the new path in which we will travel. If you have any questions, please contact President Stay'c Green.

Hope to see you all there.

Lisa's birthday @ Ruth's Chris

2006-10-15T23:56:00.000-04:00

Back row: Stay'c, Kim, Marcia
Front row: Lisa, Linda, Tedra

UPDATE

2006-07-18T08:36:00.000-04:00

Hello SPIRIT members!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful and safe summer.

Updates:

Linda is recovering from her back surgery. She's doing fine! If anyone wants to call her please feel free to ask me for the information.

Lisa's birthday was on July 17th. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! For Lisa's birthday she has decided on Ruth's Chris Steakhouse this Saturday July 22nd. The time has not been announced. More information will be giving by Madame President.

CONGRATS! KIM and her husband finally sold their CONDO.

Anyone who has information for the blog. Send it to the President and she will forward it to me.

WE GOT SPIRIT, YES WE DO, WE GOT SPIRIT, HOW ABOUT YOU!

POOL PARTY FOR THE KIDS

2006-06-04T15:12:00.000-04:00

POOL PARTY

Hello Ladies,

Originally we had planned a cook-out for the kids at Stone Mountain Park. However, the kids came up with a better idea, a "POOL PARTY" for the kids. Each child will be able to bring 3 guests to the party. The pool party will be held at Marcia's house, Friday June 9th from 5pm-10pm.

Please RSVP, ASAP.

We will have hotdogs and hamburgers for the kids. Any adult willing to bring some chicken or steaks for the adults that will be marvelous. (I'm bringing two chicken wings for Tedra and I).
We will use the money from dues to purchase the food. However, we may ask for a small outside contribution. I will be sending out assignments to each member soon.

Oh yeah, don't forget your dues, especially those that missed the April meeting, don't make me call any names.

For those of you that wanted to see Stone Mountain, believe it or not, you can stand on Marcia's deck and see it (free).

Your President
Stay'c Green

UPDATED INFORMATION

2006-05-26T19:47:00.000-04:00

May's meeting was cancelled due to members having other engagements to attend. No fees are due for May.

The Stone Mountain cookout for the kids will be held on the weekend of the meeting set for JUNE. The date is JUNE 17th. More information will be provided by Kim.

Tedra's company SOUTHERN RECRUITING sponsored a DIVISION 14 girls team in the HOOP IT UP 3 on 3 competition. The girls won their division and came in 3rd against the boys DIVISION 14. The team qualifies to compete in the World Championship in Orlando, Fl in August.

Summer is here -- If you're looking for a summer camp for your child(ren). Call the Decatur Recreation center @ 404)377-0494.

Upcoming Birthdays: Lisa Eberhart (July)

MEETING IN MAY @ MARCIA'S HOUSE

2006-05-03T13:15:00.000-04:00

This month meeting will be held at Marcia's house on May 20th (still waiting on what time). There will be a massage therapist on site to relieve any stress from the body.

The cookout at Stone Mountain is set for the end of June. Any questions about the cookout, please contact Kim.

UPCOMING EVENTS

2006-05-02T17:12:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, May 10, 2006

Nightlife
Live Latin Jazz Wednesdays
12:00AM
Raul's Latin American Café

Nightlife
Al Smith's Midtown Jam Session
9:00PM
Apache Café

Thursday, May 11, 2006

Dinner&Jazz
Live Jazz @ C'est Bon
5:00PM
C'est Bon Cajun Restaurant

Dinner&Jazz
Jazz on the Square
6:30PM
the GLOBE

Nightlife
Billiards and Jazz @ Barley's
6:00PM
Barley's Sports Bar & Lounge

Nightlife
Live Jazz @ Cafe 290
9:00PM
Café 290

Friday, May 12, 2006
Live Jazz on Friday's @ Michon's
11:00AM
Michon's Smoked Meats & Seafood

Eclectic Jazz
Fernbank’s Martinis & IMAX® presented by Turner Broadcasting
5:30PM
Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Jazz Etc.
Jazz on the Lawn
7:30PM
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center

Nightlife

Live Jazz @ Cafe 290
9:00PM
Café 290

Saturday, May 13, 2006
Dinner&Jazz

Jazz Brunch at The Jonesboro Greenhouse
11:00AM
The Jonesboro Greenhouse

Dinner&Jazz
Jazzy Nights @ Endenu
7:00PM
Endenu Restaurant

Dinner&Jazz

Jazz In The Blue Room/Jam Session
9:00PM
The Blue Room

Eclectic Jazz

Jazz @ the Green Market
9:00AM
Piedmont Park Conservancy

Eclectic Jazz

Steppin' Into Jazz
3:00PM
A Step Above Shoes

Jazz Etc.

The City of Jonesboro Presents The Sentimental Journey Orchestra
7:00PM
City of Jonesboro

Jazz Etc.
An Evening of Jazz Under the Stars
8:00PM
Jimmy Carter Preisdential Library and Museum

Nightlife

Live Jazz @ Cafe 290
9:00PM
Café 290

Sunday, May 14, 2006
Dinner&Jazz

Jazz Mother's Day Brunch
11:00AM
Dailey's Restaurant & Bar

Dinner&Jazz

Jazz Brunch @ Park Tavern
11:00AM
Park Tavern

Nightlife

Live Jazz @ Cafe 290
9:00PM
Café 290

Monday, May 15, 2006
Dinner&Jazz

Martini Mondays @ Justins
4:00PM
Justin's

Eclectic Jazz

Jazz in The Atrium - Performances presented by the City of Atlanta Department of Aviation Airport Art Program
5:00PM
Airport Art Program

Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Eclectic Jazz

Jazz in The Atrium - Performances presented by the City of Atlanta Department of Aviation Airport Art Program
5:00PM
Airport Art Program

Jazz Etc.
Music in the Museum: Gary Motley Trio
7:30PM
Oglethorpe University Museum of Art

Nightlife

Jam Session with Danny Harper in the Whisper Room
8:30PM
Churchill Grounds

Nightlife
Jam Session with Danny Harper in the Whisper Room
10:30PM
Churchill Grounds

Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Dinner&Jazz
Jazzy Wine on Wednesday
6:30PM
City Grill Restaurant

Eclectic Jazz

Jazz in The Atrium - Performances presented by the City of Atlanta Department of Aviation Airport Art Program
5:00PM
Airport Art Program

Jazz Etc.

Atlanta Investment Group Presents Wind Down Wednesdays
5:30PM
Atlanta Investment Group II, Inc.

MINUTES for Meeting held on APRIL 22, 2006

2006-04-25T11:35:00.000-04:00

Spirit Minutes
In attendance: Stacy Green, Linda Stewart, Dee Robinson, Marcia Eberhart-Fagin and Kim Lee-Brown.

The president will send out an e-mail to all members to see if they are interested in continuing to be a SPIRIT member. Members should indicate if they want to be in the SPIRIT Club, Birthday Club or both.

The 2006 Trip is cancelled. We will concentrate on making plans for the 2007 Family Disney Cruise. Kim will call her traveling agent and Marcia will call hers.
Congratulations to Janai for making the cheerleading squad. This is the reason why Marcia can’t pay her dues or go on the 2006 trip. She will be taking donations for Janai’s cheerleader fees of $1,000.
Linda will give us more information on the 3 day breast cancer walk. The walk will take place Oct. 20-22. Linda would like to form a team.
We discussed the movie “NO More Sheets”. Linda and Marcia both felt that the movie made some very good points.
Close your eyes and think SPIRIT CLUB. What do you see (other than a SPRITE can)? Please pass your image on, so that we can begin designing the SPIRIT T-Shirt. Don’t forget to suggest a color.

· Fundraisers: Card Party and Fish Fry. We will be selling tickets for both events. Tickets for the card party will be $10. $5 will go into the money pot for the card game tournament. The card game will be held at Linda’s house. Fish Fry: TBD
· Kim will organize the end of school Cook-out (to be held at Stone Mountain Park). This will take place in May or June.
· The Next Spirit Meeting will be held on Saturday, May 20. This will be a day of pampering. We will have someone come in to do massages at $25 per person. EVERYONE must RSVP, ASAP. We need to determine how long it will take and what time to start. Marcia is looking into finding someone to do pedicures and manicures. Linda will provide the food.
· July Birthday: Lisa! We will be having a cook-out at Darin’s house. Lisa and Tedra will make the final arrangements.
· The President cut everyone past dues in half. Members should pay $20 and not $40 dollars. We decided that as adults we should be able to keep up with our own dues (but just in case, Marcia will keep a written record). If you choose to let you dues laps for 3 months ($30) then that’s on you. All members should catch up with their dues within 3 months. We also decided to do away with all the late fees, missed meeting fees and just because fees. Dues will remain at $10 per month.

Linda, Stacy, Kim and Dee paid their fees. That leaves the rest of you ladies to catch up.

SPIRIT: Sisters, Participating, Investing, Relaxing, Intelligently, Together.

March 17th Meeting @ Stoney River

2006-04-13T11:05:00.000-04:00

Time: ?

Topics discussed:

The majority stated that they would like to participate in the 3 day walk for cancer. This will be discussed in more detail at the next meeting. Linda will provide more information. We will be watching the video "No More Sheets" by Juanita Bynum. Marcia will bring the video. Discussion of the video will follow. Anyone with a creative mind is encouraged to come up with a layout design for our T-shirts. We will go into more details about the fundraisers for trips. The final decision on what trip is being taken, will be made at the next meeting.

The meeting for April was scheduled for the 15th. Since this is the weekend of Easter. The meeting has been changed to April 22nd @ 8pm. (Final decision made by the President) The meeting will be @ Dee's house.

PLEASE DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR DUES....

Marcia's Birthday @ Stoney River (March 2006)

2006-04-08T13:24:00.000-04:00

Tedra, Marcia (Birthday girl), Ireka, & Dee

Ireka, Dee, Kim

Sandra & Crystal

Lisa, Stay'c, Sonia
The S.P.I.R.I.T Ladies

We would like to thank Sandra Trammell for joining us and Sonia Wimbush for coming back. Our doors are always open.

TOPICS TO BE DISCUSSED ON MARCH 17, 2006

2006-03-07T08:55:00.000-05:00

Reservations are set for 8:30pm @ Stoney River in Roswell on Alpharetta Hwy. We're meeting at Marcia's house @ 8pm.

1. NO MORE SHEETS by Juanita Bynum (video for April meeting)
2. Cookout for the kids in JULY @ Stone Mountain Park
3. Cruise/Las Vegas Trip
4. Dues
5. Upcoming events
6. Walk-a-thon (Cure for Cancer)
7. Upcoming birthdays

THE FORBIDDEN KNOWLEDGE

2006-02-22T11:13:00.000-05:00

I have been reading some interesting topics on this website called THE FORBIDDEN KNOWLEDGE. I was informed of this website by Lisa, who was informed by her son Lazerek. My people we need to start reading what it's out there for us to read. This website informs us of what is really going on in this world. It breaks down quotes from the bible, it talks about FREEMASONRY, which is a form of Satanism. Your Presidents are part of this group of people who worships Lucifer. Yes, even Bill and Hiliary Clinton. They all have given there soul to receive the power. Everything is planned out to a tee. I've always said that the 9/11 incident wasn't a form of terrorism. I've always said that the President knew this was going to happen, and he knows who did it.

It also talks about brainwashed. How the government controls what is taught in our schools. They only allow so much knowledge in these schools. There's a reason why God is being taken out of the schools (our government worships LUCIFER).

Lisa and I was doing some reading yesterday. We came across a section that talks about symbols of this type of worship and who's involved. Many feel that the sign of the beast will be some symbol on your body. That is not true, we are already wearing the signs of the beast. The symbols/signs are everywhere. How you might ask: the cars you drive, the clothes you wear, etc. (This is talked about on the website --- PLEASE read it)

Another thing: If you have ever listen to George W. Bush speaks, he always mention the name : NEW WORLD ORDER- this is the group that is taking over the world. If you look on the back of the dollar bill, you will see the words NOVUS ORDO SECLORUM (meaning New World Order). Also, on the back you will see some stars, when you out line the stars it forms THE STAR OF DAVID.

This group has been formed for a long time. Everything that's happening has been in process for a long time.

You wonder how George W. Bush won the election. We all know that Al Gore won, but Al Gore isn't closely related to every Euorpean monarch on and off the throne, Bush is. They had to but someone who knows what the plan is in office. Even during the next election, they will put whomever they want in office, because it is in their plan. Their plan is to take over the world. We are leaving in the last days people ----WAKE UP.

PLEASE CLICK ON THE FORBIDDEN KNOWLEDGE LINK ON THE BLOG, and READ. They already say "Black people don't read!" Prove them wrong.

I could talk all day about this, but I want you all to read this information for yourself. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS INFORMATION.

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAY'S @ ASC

2006-02-20T15:00:00.000-05:00

Ebony & Stacy (Birthday Girls)

ASC- Group

ASC - MEETING FRIDAY FEBRUARY 18th

2006-02-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

Meeting called to order @ 9:42pm

Topics that were discussed at the meeting.

There was a vote about being absent on the birthday outting. If it's your birthday and you miss the outting, there will not be a make up day for your absence. Also, you need to send your part of the expense of paying for the birthday person's meal. Meaning, if you don't show, send your money with someone else. Ireka, sent her money by Marcia. Crystal, you need to pay your part.

Membership fees are due at the next meeting @ Dee's house in April. The amount is $40. Also, everyone must bring something. Kim will email the list of items to me and I will post them.

A movie outting is set for March 3 approx. around 7pm @ North Dekalb Mall (Madea's Family Reunion) kids are welcomed.

For Marcia's birthday we are set for Stoney River on Friday March 17, 8pm.

Kim we need those other quotes on the Las Vegas trip.

We agreed to help out with the feed the hungry (Spaghetti Dinner), which is held on the 1st Monday of each month. More information will be provided by Donelle.

Please do not send emails about receiving bad luck!

We would like to thank our guests - LaToya and Linda for visiting with us. Our doors are always open.

ART EXPO and WINE TASTING

2006-02-20T13:49:00.000-05:00

SAL GROSSO STEAKHOUSE
Live Music, Wine, Food & Art Sale/Show

Brazilian Art Exposition & Wine Tasting
March 13th and 14th
6:00pm to 9:00pm
$15 per person

funds donated to
CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER INSTITUTION

Live Music and Complimentary Appetizers

Have fun and know that 20% of money generated
from paintings sold will be donated to the institution.

Then on March 14th a unique painting by R. Bernardo will
be auctioned and 100% of its earnings will be donated to the charity to help
cure childhood cancer. AND if you stay for dinner,
Sal Grosso will donate an additional $10.00 to Cure Childhood Cancer Institution.

ART, FOOD, WINE
at Sal Grosso Churrascaria
1927 Powers Ferry Road (at Windy Hill)
Free Parking

770-850-1540 for Reservations.
www.salgrosso.com

The Play "ISSUES" @ Civic Center

2006-02-15T22:37:00.000-05:00

Hello All,

The play "ISSUES" will be performed during the month of March 16 - 18.

Are you all interested in going to see this play?

Movies

2006-02-14T10:58:00.000-05:00

Hello All!

The majority of the members are interested in going to the movie theater.
The Movie: Tyler Perry's - Madea's Family Reunion
Date Begins: Friday, February 24th

We need to figure out a day for everyone to go.

Bible Legacy

2006-02-12T20:44:00.000-05:00

Tedra & Minister Farrakhan

The Introduction and Summary was taken from the book Bible Legacy of the Black Race by Joyce Andrews

Some of the Introduction:

Many people of practically all races, including some blacks, have the mistaken notion that the Black race’s roots began in the bush of Africa and merely progressed through slavery and civil rights. Actually, the drama of blacks had its beginning in the Garden of Eden moving onward in the time to the great empires of the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, through the rise and fall of these great empires and ending in the bush and finally slavery.

African people have long been regarded as among the most primitive people on the face of the earth. Although many tribal customs are slowly dying out as the people become more acquainted with the outside world, nevertheless, the majority of Africa’s black people are basically illiterate. Evolutionists have often identified then as primitives who have yet to make the long climb upward toward civilization, believing that their environment, such as the bush, or some other misfortune may have held these people back, preventing any further advancement. However, historical and archaeological evidence support a different view. Through these findings it has been established, beyond doubt, that black people of African descent are the direct descendants of the Ancient Egyptians of Africa. These are the same Egyptians that are prominently mentioned in the Bible!

Chapter 1
Summary:

Like Daniel, who through the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, was able to see events far into the future, even into the latter days – so was the prophet Isaiah allowed to gaze into the future of the Egyptian people, spanning the time from the beginning of the prophecy, through the centuries, to its fulfillment, even to this very day. In summarizing this portion of the prophecy given to Isaiah in a sort of nutshell form, it is clear that the warning was intended to describe the calamites that would come upon Egypt, and the long-range effects they would have upon the people as a nation and the land, if they did not repent and turn back to God. However, because Pharaoh and the Egyptians failed to heed the prophet’s warning, God allowed the fullness of the prophecy to fall on the Egyptians and their descendants (African black people)

“Behold, the Lord rideth upon a swift cloud, and shall come into Egypt: and the idols of Egypt shall be moved at His presence…” The prophet sees God’s destruction coming swiftly in a cloud (history records it as an earthquake) destroying the idols of that nation. The Egyptians took the greatest pains to make the temples of their gods beautiful. The largest and one of the most splendid, the Temple of Ammon at Thebes, took almost four hundred years to build. Although it is now in ruins, it yet remains one of the chief wonders of Ancient Egyptian architecture.

“And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight everyone against his brother . . . against his neighbor . . . city against city, and kingdom against kingdom.” A spirit of disunity and discord would exist among the Egyptians and their descendants. “Egyptians against Egyptians.” There would be an inability to come together and cooperate together as one people. The situation surrounding the conflicts between Blacks and Oriental immigrants who migrate to the U.S. is a point worth considering. Each new group of foreigners (Vietnamese, Korean, etc) arrives with nothing, scratching for a foothold. The whole family comes together willing to toil for incredibly long hours for low wages in order to finally begin to succeed after what sometimes seems an unbelievably short period of time. However, their success stirs the resentment of the long-time Black residents in the neighborhood whose ill-will stems from immigrants’ ability to garner profits from their community. The Blacks, some of who are members of the working class or are desperately poor, figure they should be running what seems to be a highly lucrative enterprise. But when asked why they, who are the long-time residents, have never come together and attempted such endeavor, they, most often can give no clear-cut answer. “ . . . And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians.”

“ . . .And they shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers and to them that have familiar spirits, and to the wizards.” As a consequence of their disobedience, the Egyptians were given over to the practice of sorcery, from which came voodoo, hoodoo, Black magic, and other beliefs that still persists among Blacks all over the world. The use of voodoo dolls and images that are believed to place a “hex” or “cast a spell” on an enemy was derived from Egyptian ritual that the Egyptian people used against their enemies. According to ancient Egyptian texts called Execration Texts, this ritual was done with human figures made of clay or red pottery bowls. Each object was inscribed with the name of the enemy of the Pharaoh and also inscribed with cursing against the enemy. The object was then ceremonially thrown down and crushed, signifying the crushing of all opposition against the king. The snake is a major object used in the practice of sorcery. The Egyptian Pharaoh’s headdress or crown differed from that of all other countries because the snake or scared cobra, called the Uraeus, was erected in the middle of the forehead. The belief was that it would spit at anyone who came too near to the Pharaoh. “ . . . and they shall seek to the idols…charmers…familiar spirits…wizards.”

“And the Egyptians will I give over into the hand of a cruel Lord; and a fierce King shall rule over them…” God warned that He would allow the Egyptians to go into slavery and be ruled over by merciless and cruel people. The annals and chronicles of the past have born out the fulfillment of this prophecy. It is the only portion of black people’s past that can be found in the history books.

“And the waters shall fail from the sea, and the river shall be wasted and dried up . . .” It is the fulfillment of this portion of the prophecy that accounts for the extreme drought condition that exists in Africa today. It also accounts for the many deserts that are present on the continent and why they are continuing to expand.

“Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded, and they shall be broken in the purposes thereof…” The ability to excel I the finer skills (the sciences, architecture, fine linen weaving, goldsmith, jewelry-making, etc) would no longer be the trademark of Egyptians nor their descendants.

“Surely the princes of Zoan are fools, the counsel of the wise counselors of Pharaoh is become brutish.” The Egyptians and their descendants would no longer be widely known and honored for their exceptional mastery of wisdom and knowledge, but would appear foolish with a lack of refinement.

“ . . . How say ye unto Pharaoh, I am the son of the wise, the son of ancient Kings?’ The black person’s knowledge of his or her ancestry would be concealed and not made known to him for many centuries, which accounts for the fact that black people are not aware of their true origin.

“The Lord hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst… they have caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his vomit.” A perverse spirit meaning a contrary nature that would be just opposite of the typical Egyptian nature. The Egyptians’ character, behavior and total way of life would be counter in every way. A people of class and elegance would now be a people of a low, crude, unrefined nature.

“Neither shall there be any work for Egypt, which the head or tail, branch or rush may do.” God warned that the day would come when Egypt would look for work but wouldn’t be able to find any. The incredible unemployment rate among Blacks across America and in Africa gives unquestioned credibility of the fulfillment of this prophecy.

In that day shall Egypt. . . be afraid and fear. . .” Faintheartedness, timidity and fearfulness would become a characteristic of the nature of the Egyptian and his descendant.

“. . . for they shall cry unto the Lord because of the oppressors, an he shall send them a Savior and a great one, and he shall deliver them.” Isaiah prophesies that although God will punish Egypt’s sin, he shall also heal his people and return them back to himself. They shall cry out to him because of their oppressors (those who deal harassment, injustice, persecution, cruelty) and he shall send them a Savior and a Great One and he shall deliver them. An explanation of a “Savior” and “Great One” is in order at this point in the exposition because the Hebrew translation of both “Savior” and “Great One” renders them, not as one and the same person but as two different people, functioning in two different roles, even at two different times! Several Bible commentaries and many theologians basically agree that a “Savior” is in reference to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, whose function is basically, a spiritual deliverance; and that He, essentially, must appear upon the scene before the “Great One”. Since God is speaking of a total freedom of the black race, spiritual freedom would certainly be a prerequisite. However, who the “Great One” would be, has been a subject on which there has been a great deal of controversy.

Now, the book goes on an explain how the Egyptians thought that Alexander the Great was the “Great One” but even during and after his short reign in Egypt, the once famous culture of the Egyptians had begun to deteriorate, finally ending in slavery which had began as early as the 1400s, continuing over a period of over 400 years.

So, in other words, the entry of the great one would signal the end or the completion of the prophecy and the beginning of absolute freedom for black people.

Then it is explained that the great one spoken of would have to be in reference to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., because although black people had freedom in the form of an official document (the Constriction of the Untied States, yet they experienced no real freedom until, through the providence of God, Dr. King was raised up. His entrance upon the scene signified the fulfillment of the prophecy and its ending.

Dee's Birthday @ BONES (January 2006)

2006-02-10T13:22:00.000-05:00

Ebony

Kim

Lisa, Stay'c, Marcia

Dee

North Carolina Trip - August 2005 (Tedra's Birthday)

2006-02-10T11:56:00.000-05:00

WNBA GAME Tedra & Bernadette
(Asst Coach Connecticut Sun)

(Lisa, Kim, Tedra, Dee, Marcia, Tracy)

PRICE QUOTES FOR LAS VEGAS TRIP

2006-02-09T19:05:00.002-05:00

FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER.......

The 3 star hotels are running from 390.00 thru 450.00
The 4 star hotels are running from 430.00 thru 490.00
The 5 star hotels are running from 460.00 thru 560.00

The dates checked was from 1-4, 2-5, 3-6, 4-7,5-8,6-9,7-10,8-11,9-12,10-13,11-14,12-15,13-16,14-17,15-18,16-19,17-20... further in the month theprices get higher, leaving on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday is cheaper, leaving on a Thursday a little more expensive, leaving on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday gets a littler more expensive.. This is a 4 day 3 night, usually when coming back it's in the evening and the plan will not get back into Atlanta until the next morning. EXAMPLE if the flight out from Las Vegas is leaving around 7:00 pm on Sunday it will arrive about 6:00am Monday morning, I'm not sure if this will be considered a 5 day to you, if so I will check for info for a 3 day 2 night, and the price includes hotel and flight let me know...