Four Years a Mom

We started a new tradition this year. An additional aspect to the Birthday Celebration; a time to remember and reminisce. For me, I recall about this time 4 years ago when I began experiencing the pangs of labor for the very first time. I began an experience that some have described to be the worse pain a woman could possibly have. My story was unique as is every other mom's, but as we celebrate my first born child's 4th birthday, I am reminded that it is a pivotal time for me too: I am four years a mom!

We had him on the 22nd. I broke out in lavish praise when I heard his first cry. I could hardly take it all in when I first held him in my arms. We brought him home on Christmas day in a red Christmas bootie that he was given as a gift from the hospital. It was such a time of excitement and joy as family and friends flooded our home with their presence and love. Imagine Tidings of Great Joy meshed with the awe of a brand new son!

I celebrate because my entry into motherhood was stark and real; the reality of holding all responsibility for a newborn was no joke. But I have come to realize that first-time motherhood throughout the entire journey is even less of a joke; for no matter how they came in, they encounter that relationship with you afresh every new day. I find that my first born is coaching me constantly, teaching me what is best and what isn't, what works and what doesn't. He's "The Experimental Child," allowing me to test my instincts and ideas so that those afterward enjoy a smoother ride.

So today, I celebrate me. I celebrate making it to having a bright and intriguing pre-schooler; a young man who will be encountering the real world real soon.

We love you, MM! I look forward to being a better mother as we prayerfully parent you, and we know that you will teach your brother and any others along the way how to be exceptional individuals.

With love and gratitude,

-tia.
12/22/13

Out of The Blue

Today's piece is a lovely tribute shared on behalf of Uloma, a dear friend to 

Esse and Solomon 

on the celebration of their Wedding. 

Their story is one that speaks of the faithfulness of God. 

They are living proof that if you seek first the Kingdom of GOD, 

all other things will be added unto you!

INSPIRATIONS! Thank you, Henrietta!

Inspired to be a part!

Man! You pick up a book to read and next thing you know, you feel like part if the family! -tia

Image found here

Image found here

Before August 20, 2013, I had no clue who Henrietta Lacks was, but when I read the preface of the book "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot on that same evening, I immediately knew that I needed to know who she was! I continued grasping her remarkable story via the excellently composed audiobook and every chance I got, I would continue this intriguing enhancement of my education: as background in the car as I drove; listening outside as my kids played; and in the kitchen as I cooked and cleaned. And like when you meet someone new for the first time, suddenly I began to see her everywhere! There was also a very long wait list for reserving a copy of the book/audiobook at all the public libraries. That's really said something to me!

I became especially intrigued as I learned that her story unfolded here in Baltimore. I listened as places of familiarity were mentioned, like the Johns Hopkins Medical Institute (JHMI) and the majestic statue of Jesus, "Christus Consolator", that stands in one of its historic buildings.

Original photograph

Original photograph

I visited the very spot to see his extended right toe that she had rubbed 50 years ago, praying for safety and protection during her procedures. I began to feel so connected and I decided that I too would attend the honorary event that was held on today at JHMI.

As I grabbed my continental breakfast and sat to observe, I realized that i was not the only one intrigued by Mrs. Lacks story. Hundreds of people came in and soon the auditorium was filled, with others in over flow areas. I could only imagine what affiliation each individual has, and maybe many people came just as I:  because they felt connected to Mrs. Lack's contributions and experience. 

You see, as I read the first few pages of the book, I realized that I too had encountered HeLa cells, and that I too may have held a vial of those immortal cells in my hands during my preliminary undergraduate research.

As the years have gone by, I have supported clinical research in several ways which I felt was my duty as a researcher and future clinician. I felt that if one day I were to need the trust of other people to engage them in ideas that I determine will make an impact for the greater good, that I too must be willing to be a participant, enhancing science and community health.

So today I'm left inspired, especially after hearing from two of Mrs. Lacks actual family members: her great-grand daughter and her grandson. I feel honored to have been in attendance and become a part of this rich history in science and community involvement in finding cures for the masses.

It's kind of odd to thank Mrs. Lacks for all of the advances her immortal cells have made, because she didn't knowingly contribute to science. However, I do think that the family who has survived more than 50 years with the knowledge of this, truly deserves thanks and much more! This is why I feel so honored to have been in the same room with them, hearing their thoughts and witnessing their humanity.

Aside from the living, breathing, powerful Word of God, I've never seen a book come to life as I have seen these past several weeks. I am honored to see history created right before my eyes. I agree with Dr. Gary H. Gibbons, the Director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute at the National Institutes of Health for honoring Mrs. Henrietta Lacks as a "Matriarch of Biomedical Citizen-Science". Truly a few new terms appeared to have been coined on today, and I am glad to have been a witness. I join in to show gratitude for the extraordinary contributions of Henrietta Lack's immortal cells and her family who have chosen to be in support. I truly commend you and truly believe that in giving as you have, you will receive so much more.

tia with images of a variety of HeLa Cells that have impacted Biomedical Research

Thank You, Henrietta!,

-tia

INSPIRATIONS!: PCE = xRM

Does this equation look familiar to you?

PCE=xRM

Think back to your Physics and Calculus, or better yet, determine your value for each unknown and solve for "x".

Okay, okay, you don't really have to solve a math equation! 

But PCE actually stands for "Prominent Cease Entertainment," a team of entertainers who are doing great things in the industry, and I use RM today as a shorthand for "Role Models".

So PCE = xRM. But what about "x"? 

Well, consider "x" as the "X-Factor" that PCE presents, an additional, unique and powerful quality. I would like to share further.


My first exposure to The PCE Crew was a long while ago, maybe as early as 2002 when my dear church family, True Vine Christian Worship Center, led by The Late and Great Pastor Arnita Anthony, hosted a legendary Block Party which brought out a variety of talent including PCE, through our partnership with RCCG Jesus House Baltimore. Little did I know that I would begin regularly attending their home church RCCG Jesus House DC just a year or so later as the doors of my own home church would shut.

 

Mayoral citation and avenue title made that very day; the one physical thing that remains...

They were like our very own "Consistent Guys on the Block" as they were always at church and never hard to spot elsewhere. So of course I joined the rest of their groupies in excitement with each new release, including their very impressive modern film on the life of David, D’Comeback. I've watched these gentlemen as they have completed project after project and have consistently been impressed by their continued commitment to the things of God. 

Their new release REWIRED is no exception. It features stellar and impactful lyrics written by The Crew and the lovely Dr. Mrs. Funmilayo Agunbiade as co-writer and contributor. Essentially, as a lyricist, I have got to give them props! First of all, if you're looking for a good excuse to learn a bit of Yoruba (one of many Nigerian languages), this is an excellent reason. If you are able to grasp the power emanating from each ethnic word, you too will be compelled to dance! Several of the tracks add a quick to your step and you'll be hoppin’ even if you don't get the foreign language. But honestly, with the little Yoruba I know, the meaning adds an exponential, exciting leap into the power, grace and goodness of God! This release includes words that encourage you (Tracks 1 and 3 for me), words that compel you to praise the One and Only True King (Track 2 for me); and there is definitely that track where you'll be belting out to God in praise and surrender (that's Track 8 for me; I love it!).

They are not shy about being worshipers. They seem to have decided that they would rather be known as men of God rather than as players or thugs. My kids and I caught up with them at an event some weeks ago and we were one of the first to obtain a copy of REWIRED. As I watched my toddler sons interact with so many astute gentlemen at one time, I began to feel hopeful that when the time is right, there will be young men who have been serving Christ since their youth; who can stand as examples and mentors for them, emphasizing the values that my husband instills in them. I am convinced that PCE is currently leading that set of young men through their influence, talent and public presence, passing on the legacy. It is exciting; it really is.

Posing with The PCE Crew and our copy of REWIRED

So PCE Crew, thanks for being in the public light providing a shining example for future generations! As a mom of boys, I am grateful that you are available as role models.

Make sure you find out for yourself! The REWIRED album is available on iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify; among others. Get yours today!

Sincerely,

Lyrics by tia 2013.

INSPIRATIONS!: Inspired to Fly High!

MM's beat-up toy, so true to the character!

So some days ago, we took my son and his cousins to see Disney's Planes. Now like many other adults, the kids were just our excuse for going to see it as it was highly anticipated for me. And it did not disappoint. Now I am not a film critic, but I do connect with matters of the heart and all I can really say is that my eyes were teared up from almost the beginning to the end of this animated feature. The movie spoke to so many issues that I can relate with, but for the sake of those who have not yet seen it, i'll keep my comments brief. However, I would like to share some keys that I came away with, concepts or statements that made an impact on me. Here they are:

"I have flown thousands of miles but have been no where"

Man, that hit home the moment the words made it through my ears. I can relate having taken the "scenic route" to reach a variety of goals. Can you relate with having felt like you've gone back and forth and back and forth for years without making true progress? I want to fly a thousand more miles but this time I want to have the passport to new experiences, enriching opportunities and life long fulfillment. It's my earnest plea!

"Racing with another's shadow..." 

What an engaging concept! When I thought of this, I thought of those who proceed me; those who have been successful in areas that I can only wish for. As they lead with an impeccable and flawless example, I can relate with the notion of "racing with their shadow": working to be just as talented and just as impactful as their example, yet within a new context. It really got me thinking.

Overcoming limitations. Getting pass stigma. Breaking through barriers. 

I thought about what it's like when no one thinks you can or should make it...what it can be like when you beat the odds. And one of the most powerful things for me was in seeing the energy and freedom in overcoming fear! There is so much liberty and excitement in conquering fear and flying high!

"When you win, I win too."

I think this is what I went away with. Supporting those who are winning in the race. I might not be up at the front, but I can support the people who are, because when they win, so do I, and so does the society as a whole. Really got me thinking about some old goals and old plans. I might not be on that path today but nothing stops me from supporting those who are and watching them realize that dream as a result. It is truly empowering!

So my all-in-all scoop on Planes? I've got it on pre-order, and I'm going to look for the soundtrack! Definitely entertaining for the kids but thought-provoking for abstract thinkers. I can't wait to watch it over and over again and reinforce these and many more lessons to the kids.

Thoughtfully yours,

Lyrics by tia 2013

INSPIRATIONS! Cousins O' Mine

(Inspired to Write!)

A bright young lady, a Nutrition Leader with The Girls Scouts, asked me to write a song about cousins for her. She has many, many cousins, and a couple of them were going to visit. How thoughtful it was for her to think of how she could make them smile!

So now we've got this cute little song with a familiar tune. It's catchy and flows smoothly and predictably.
We might let you hear how it goes :)

But in the meantime, these lyrics are dedicated to cousins. As I began to put the finishing touches to the song, I realized how it rings true for me too! I also have many cousins, several of which I love and adore, including my sons’ cousins. Many of you are closer than siblings. You have been loving and protective; so available when duty calls; so faithful and true! You have been the backbone of support for each other and I, for one, am so glad to be in one big, amazing family!

I know so many of you, like my Nutrition Leader friend, are very proud of your families. We wish you great times and memories with all of your cousins!

Special thanks to my Nutrition Leader for inspiring me to write a brand new song :D

Enjoy!

Cousin O’ Mine

Verse I

Though you live so far away;

In my heart you’re here to stay.

Think about you every day;

Stay apart from you—no way.

Chorus

‘Cause you’re so fun and you’re so kind,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Our friendship stands the test of time,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Verse II

When you’re here we laugh and play;

Wish you were here with me all day.

There isn’t more that I can say:

I wish you were here everyday.

Chorus

‘Cause you’re so fun and you’re so kind,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Forever will our love entwine,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Bridge

One heart, one home, we never stand alone.

A family rich with love, no greater power known.

Chorus

‘Cause you’re so fun and you’re so kind,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Our family ties; our love divine,

I’m so glad that you’re cousins of mine.

Close

So even when you cry and whine,

I’m still glad that you’re cousins of mine.

We fight sometimes but that’s just fine,

I’m still glad that you’re cousins of mine.

-Lyrics by tia 080813

INSPIRATIONS!: Divinely Unwind with BONA

Image by Warren Timothy Photography

(Inspired to bow)

Friday night pretty much means the same thing in many circles.

Happy Hour.           The Club.               Drinks at the Bar. 

Everybody is trying to take the edge off of the prior week. 

Well, this past Friday night, some friends and I decided that we would Divinely Unwinded with BONA and her Acoustic Guitar at her Blood and Grace Album Release, Ebeneezer Coffee House.

You see, BONA has been gradually and steadily developing her music and style, and I for one can tell you that she is ultimately about worship. The first time I heard her live was at DARA’s album release. Her opening piece was her simple rendition of Keith Green’s Oh Lord You’re Beautiful (currently playing as I write). As the lyrics rang clearly through the sanctuary, they traveled directly into my spirit, moving me immediately to tears. I had been struggling with some things and at that very moment, I was reminded of the preeminence of God and what my focus should be. An instant groupie with my first taste, it was insane how much I anticipated this event! And I was not disappointed.

So as I sat on yesterday and the program began to start, all I could see were Song Writers with Instruments! As a lyricist I was in awe of the high level of spiritual insight and sensitivity to the Living Word of God! BONA’s opening act, Trenton Cokley, was fantastic; his single Someone Else is available on iTunes.

There I was, placed squarely before my God and Maker in the midst of friends. I was where I wanted to be. Another highly anticipated project, Blood and Grace is beautiful and hearing the title track LIVE was serious, ya’ll! The concert rolled on like a love affair...yeah, like the progression of an eternal romance. Each song soulful; each song sweet—oh , my goodness; it felt like college again!...Back when my musically-inclined friends would chill and relax by creating worship together and enjoying the Presence of God. When them fine Christian men would stop and stare at the ceiling in the cafeteria for several moments to advert their attention from the scantily-clad girl walking by! Yes, those were the days of I Kissed Dating Goodbye; learning from seasoned female student leadership at Women's Cell Group; and midnight/early risers' prayer as young people cried out to God for over an hour at a time! When it was just me and HIM and that was enough...I had forgotten what it used to be like until then as I was surrounded by so many young people passionately in love with Christ. Completely taken, I was moved to tears once again, reminiscing on those times when I once laid in HIS bosom fervently. It was truly a time and place for me to heal, to unwind, to breath, and fall in love with Jesus all over again.

The lyrics of each song described an experience I could identify with, leaving me to wonder how such feelings could be put to words. I was inspired to seek God so that I too can write and speak my soul; to somehow translate my struggles into expressions of worship. I was inspired to fall on my knees, for I who desires to ‘unlock the hidden treasures of the heart’ must first know the only ONE who knows the heart and has that key. I was challenged to return to my First Love. Inspired to come to Christ again, I was made to wonder where I went and where I have been all this while...

Wish you were there? Well, guess what! You can obtain a free download!!!

And, above that, there is an ENCORE Event THIS Friday, July 19th!!!!!

BONA, congratulations on a successful event and thank you for the opportunity to be a part. Continue to share the Power of God through High Worship! Lyrics by tia will definitely continue following!

Lyrics by tia
071313

Inspirations!: The CEO Who Dares 2 Dream

(Inspired to Act!)

I would like to share about Ms. Tamira Dunn and her magnificent brain child, Dream Girl's Mentoring Program, an outreach to teen moms.  But first I need to give some background.

You see, Ms Dunn is doing an awesome work. An advocate for youth in the city of Baltimore, while "Building the community one teen mom at a time", she truly struck a cord with me, as I once developed an outreach to teen girls in 2003 in response to all of the teen moms who surrounded me at the time.

Ladies for Signs and Wonders was a faith-based and grassroots self-image and confidence intervention for at-risk female youth, encouraging them to make positive choices particularly surrounding sex, and develop themselves spirit, mind and body. At that time I directed a team of 10 mentors and assistant coordinators in providing an enriching experience for each young lady. The program was implemented for 3 young ladies during the Spring of 2003 and 12 ladies during the Summer of 2003, but since I decided to begin professional school that Fall, all activities ended. Today, I can’t help but hear my dear late and great Pastor Arnita Antony advising me spiritually to continue with the good work back then. Unfortunately I didn't...and the professional school didn't work out either!!!

(Listen to your Pastors, ya'll!)

So you may understand my excitement when I first met Ms. Dunn at The Haus of Silhouette "Fashions Speak" affair at Towson University on Saturday May 5th 2012. This event was meant to raise awareness about domestic violence. Ms. Dunn had a table right next to mine. I got her card and the rest is history, as she has willingly accepted my support as someone excited about her initiative.

Ms Dunn is the CEO and Founder of Dream Girls Mentoring Program Inc. Since August 2008, she has provided one-on-one mentoring, provided resources and education, encouraged career and academic development, and provided several services that impact the lives of teenage mothers. She has done this through several community activities and has partnered with city and state agencies.

Essentially, Ms. Dunn is extremely connected to the community. I truly grasped this fact when I presented "The Education Station" at The Dream Girl’s Mentoring Program Community Baby Shower.  One-hundred pregnant and teen moms registered for this event! If you know me, you know that I had the time of my life educating all of those young women!!! She honestly left many health professionals throughout the city asking: “How did she do it?”

Oh, and then I found out that she is an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated.  My first thought was "A bajo!" as one would say in the Yoruba language, meaning "No wonder!!!!". Yes, both active in her chapter and accounted for, it is clear that she does what she does not for her own accolades but for the greater good of the community; and at the end of the day, for the glory of God.

When I think of the Five Pearls of Zeta, I believe that she too is a pioneer, a very special Pearl who has begun initiatives that I believe are also predicated on the precepts of Scholarship, Service, Sisterly Love and Finer Womanhood.

In Scholarship, as she propels young women forward toward success; women who have been told that they can not be successful due to past decisions and current responsibilities as mothers. Ms. Dunn is already seeing the impact of her interventions as the teen moms she reaches graduate from high school. Currently a graduate student herself, she applies her academic experience to practice.

In Service, because that is all she does! Serving God through her community; serving many, many people on an individual basis, and collaborating with others through Zeta and several more partnerships.

In Sisterly Love; not just for her sisters in Zeta, but for other Greeks and beyond throughout the community. And of course, sisterly love toward all of the young women she encounters every day, giving them hope and introducing a brighter future.

Photo Courtesy of Dani McCray Photography

In Finer Womanhood, because she reminds me of what womanhood is all about. Nurturing, caring, loving, giving, serving; this is the essence of all her work, and I believe, her ministry. 

Therefore, welcomed and inspired by Ms. Dunn [and also inspired by, in my opinion, the loveliest AKA on earth, my cousin Miss Opeyemi Elizabeth Fadoju (visit her at Floss and All)], I have decided to become active in Zeta again, serving in Baltimore, MD, finally, after about 7 years since my induction in May 2006. I am inspired to act, not necessarily for current gain but for a greater future, I proceed enthusiastically.

Who doesn't want to be a part of something good--and progressive?

So be inspired, friends, family and fans as you are Cordially Invited to ACT:

The Dream for Success School Supply Donation Drive

Begins THIS SATURDAY FROM 12:00-3:00 PM

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Look out for me!

The Grand Opening of The Dream Girls Mentoring Program New Offices 

Where you can meet the staff and learn how you too can get involved.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Look out for me!

Stay tuned HERE for details on more outreach events including The Back to School Block Party, August 24, 2013. Vendor opportunities are also available.

A Quote from Ms Tamira Dunn:

My passion and vision to promote resources and implement programs for the youth of Baltimore City is what keeps me going. 

-June 25, 2013.

The CEO

A job well done, Ms. Dunn, and congratulations on a bright future of impact and exciting positive outcomes ahead!

-Sincerely,
Lyrics by tia
07/2013

Inspirations: The Way You Make Me Feel, MJ!

Image courtesy of DrAjao

(Inspired to Praise)

The first time I heard my sons' cries, my response was exactly the same.
I mean, imagine that moment when a person doesn't exist and then the next moment they do, and they proclaim their arrival with a strong, wailing greeting.

Praise exploded from my heart at that moment!
Unrestrained and unrestricted praise.
I couldn't have cared less about the OBs, Nurses, Anesthesiology, Techs and others present
I actually couldn't help myself and I couldn't contain it.
Both were amazing moments.

From their first cries till now, my MJ still compels me to praise. I'm sure you know what I mean.

When we look them over...you know, tilt our heads to the side and look real close at their features...
How likened they are to us and/or our spouses?
Fearful at times at the resemblance?
I look at how wondrously they are made and again I am compelled to praise.
"My God! You are wonderful!"

What about how they surprise us at the intricate details and knowledge
That they soak up moment by moment, without our intervention?
We think 'How could someone so small be so smart?' 
When they say witty things, we wonder how this whole person could have come out from us!:
"I am actually a parent! Who would have thought? Thank You, Jesus!"

And when we look at how they are literally maturing before our eyes,
Becoming more handsome and more beautiful, and think 
'What a perfect blend of genes! LORD, You are amazing!

GOD is worthy of all this praise, for HE designed them specially to bring us joy in life.

So my dear children, my MJ, thank you for inspiring me to praise. 

For inspiring me to praise through my example to you. 

Praise through my love and service to you as your mom; 

Through discipline, as I envision the astute men you will one day be. 

Inspired to draw closer to the Lord so that I can teach you the things of God; 

The pleasures of knowing HIM in your youth, 

In being so near and dear to Him that he orchestrates your plans, 

Giving you opportunities that I didn't have

Praise through my work because all that I am today 

Is because you inspired me to do better,

You are the reason my life has changed today, 

Because you inspired me to get off my butt and get out the door to make something happen!

That's how you make me feel, my MJ,

'Cause as another MJ (2009-2013) said:

Oh I'll Be Workin' From Nine To Five

To Buy You Things To Keep you by my side

Enjoy this track with me as a tribute to the MJ we celebrate today.

I remember where I was this day in 2009, MM still in utero and Jojo only a dream

I'm grateful to have them both as a source of joy today.

I love you, My MJ.

06/25/13

Inspirations: Z is for Zaner SA

Image by DrAjao

(The SUPERS have resurfaced!)

You guys, this May marked A DECADE since I graduated from College! And although I have been in the field for almost 10 years, I was inspired by an exceptional young lady, the Student Keynote Speaker at The University of Maryland College Park (UMCP) 2013 Commencement activities for The School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences.

Her name is Ms. Stefanie Anne Zaner, but pretty soon, the scientific world will know her well as Zaner SA. Well, actually, Ms. Zaner was first know as The Iron Kid of Darnestown who completed 13 years of elementary, middle and high school without a single absence.

Ms. Zaner became just as impressive in College, as she didn't just BS to get a BS! Having received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Sciences: Physiology and Neurobiology this May, Ms. Zaner earned a University Honors Citation and has been inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and the Primannum Honor Societies. She was the type of student who "camped outside her professors' offices," using all the resources available to her as a student who invested in her own education.

You would think she would forsake all else and face the studies as a "responsible scholar". Rather, she believed in the power and opportunity found in student involvement. She was President of the Charles R. Drew Pre-Medical/Pre-Health Society; Head Recruitment Ambassador for the College of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, and played the clarinet as a member of the Mighty Sound of Maryland Marching Band and the Pep Band for all 4 years.

Student activity is great; but so is that moo-lah. Ms Zaner was a Teaching Assistant for Biometrics and Mammalian Physiology. She has been a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Child Health and Development. Finding opportunities to apply her book knowledge, she was also a Radiology Assistant at Washington Hospital Center.

Now she is going to complete a Post-Bac Research Training program, then off to Med School! She is impressive indeed! Ms. Zaner is living proof that busy girls get it done--and that they do it big!

So to all my Super Women out there excelling in life;

Skillfully managing spirituality, academia, career, family, service and self;

I salute you!

Zaner SA, I hope to hear more about you through your activities in science, research and medicine; and definitely in the media! You've truly inspired me that it is possible to do it all, and do it well. Congratulations!

Enjoy Zaner SA’s Witty Keynote Address on

The ABCs According to the UMCP Class of 2013

Based on evidence-based research: real student survey responses.

Genius!

Inspirations: DARA!

DARA♥ 

Excellence Through Endurance

I drove home through a terrible storm last evening. My only company were comforting lyrics and sounds from the CD player; words accompanied by base and a catchy chorus from the song "Without You" of DARA's new release “Colors of my Heart”. So I sang along:

Oh. Oh. Oh…Nothing in this world would matter without You...

Whoa Oh. Oh. Oh...Nothing in this world would matter without You.

Without You. Without You…

While I was prayerfully struggling with visibility, 
With the tremendous downpour of rain, 
And as I faced weather conditions that have taken so many lives, 
I wailed out those Oooooohs!, and focused on a God who matters no matter what happens.

Of course, after a repeat or two (or three) I decided to let the tracks proceed. To the glory of God I made it home safely, and appropriately, I couldn't help but join in to  the song “You Deserve” with lifted hands:

You deserve all my worship,

You deserve all my praise,

You deserve all my worship,

Jesus You deserve. 

Jesus You deserve...

Truly there is nothing like the right music at the right moments!

DARA's “Colors of my Heart” is an eclectic selection of creative arrangements, exciting transitions, and outstanding usage of culture and language. Exuding excellence, DARA’s project was well worth the wait! Not only is it soulful and entertaining, but the lyrical expressions that were crafted are true and Biblically sound. You cannot deny her strategic use of partnerships, as every aspect of the music, sound, background vocals, production, and branding are truly on point. It is clear that when DARA♥ was ready to hit the stage, she did so with the power and presence of God backing her up! 

DARA♥, Lyrics by tia applauds you. You are truly an inspiration.

Family, Fans and Friends, you are missing out if you don’t have your own personal copy of the “Colors of my Heart” album. 

Get yours today!   Also visit her website for updates (full site coming soon)!

DARA♥, we look forward to hearing more about the success that is already yours.

With love,

Lyrics by tia
06/2013

What Am I Here For? Lyrics on YouTube