2013 in Review: Count your Struggles or your Blessings?

Indeed, this image sums 2013 up for me!!! It reminds me that I didn't have it all together and that there were a lot of difficult times this year. But who wants to focus on the struggles as we approach a New Year? Why not key in to the blessings, grace and favor of God rather than the challenges of life? Well, today I discovered a simple way to do this from an idea shared by 95.1 Shine FM on Facebook.

Image found here

I am so excited about this idea because it meshes so well with an outreach I partook in this Season: Jars of Joy Baltimore. To top it all, I was also given a Jar, something I cherish, albeit so simple! I feel so special to have my own jar, and now I can put it to good use!

Ready for those "Pressin' Blessings"
No excuses; just jot 'em down!

So we've coined it our Good Year Jar

What will you call yours?

Awaiting the Awesome Wonders of 2014!

-Lyrics by tia

12/27/13

For the last few days of the year, we will revisit our most popular posts: The Best of 2013

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

Infinity and Beyond

INFINITY 2008

 

Infinity and a day
I'm here to stay
Come what may
Committed to a lifetime
Of yays and nays

 

Infinity and reflection
We don't have perfection
But we do have hope
That HE that started this thing
Can make it never ending

 

Infinity in His presence
For as iron sharpens Iron
We've been given
A challenge like no other
The refiners fire
A forum where GOD develops the best me
And the best you
I'm willing to work at it together
For infinity and forever

-Lyrics by tia 100813

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

Always Give 100%

Image from ImgAce.com

You've all heard the saying "It will turn around and bite you in the butt".

Well I've got bites all over!

In fact, I have come to realize that there are certain empirical truths that are in the Word of God that just cannot be disputed. The #1 WORD I have found to be true?:

You will reap what you sow (Galatians 6:7)

You know that shotty work you did for your boss last week? And do you remember that day you got to work an hour late and did not account for it? Or what about the time you left work early to address some personal matter?

How about the time you returned that dress that you had already worn 3 times or returned an item that you had bought on sale without the receipt so that you would have a credit for a higher amount?

The list is endless and I know several quite well.

I am realizing that at the end of the day, it will matter. Down the line, somehow it will catch up with you. And even if you don't get caught, or have a fine or get found out, most of the time it is your character that ends up being tainted.

These things do come back and bite you in the butt and sometimes you just end up feeling a lot of regret for some choice you've made.

I've got some of those regrets too.

I wish I had always been an excellent employee in the past, surpassing expectations, showing passion in my work and being someone who is always highly recommended.

I wish I had always served in the church willingly, with the utmost humility and servant's-heart.

I wish I had always shown my family and friends how much I loved them by being open-handed with gifts and genuine tokens of appreciation.

I wish a lot of things that impact character where different in my life. But thank God for now! Thank God for the opportunity to switch gears and be who "I wished" I was!

So lets put some antiseptics on those bites and allow them to heal while we make better choices that will make an excellent impact on others. Down the line you'll find that more people revere and respect you; you will be the type of person whose reputation has already paved the way for you, like Ruth. So is my prayer for you and I!

Wishing you the best!
-tia

Ruth 2:10-12 NLT

Ruth fell at his feet and thanked him warmly. "What have I done to deserve such kindness?" she asked. "I am only a foreigner." "Yes, I know," Boaz replied. "But I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband. I have heard how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done."

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: 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