STILL Here

HI Friends,

I am still here!  It has been a few months since my last post and I am really missing my space here.

Lots of interesting things has been going on for me recently that has kept me busier than normal.

Was promoted at work to Director of my team!! God has favored me and appointed me and by his leading and grace and wisdom all is going well.  Praise God.

I started a meetup group.  Are you familiar with meetup?  I'm so excited, I have two events posted so far and I'm am so looking forward to all that will evolve from this group!

I won second place in my local toastmasters club 'Table Topics' competition!!  That's second place out of four competitors.  The first place winner is a lot more experienced and competed before however, I was so proud of myself for taking the challenge.

Lately I have been itching to write a new series....It's usually around this time of year that I have the unction to delve into a new perspective from a spiritual angle. I have had so much inspiration and have been jotting down notes on my phone to not forget them.  Just need to settle and focus.

To my consistent blog friends, I still read all your posts!!  I miss you all and hope to engage more soon.

Thanks for reading and have a blessed week!

God Favors Me.....Letting Go

I thank God for His continued mercy, grace, protection, deliverance and FAVORS that He displays in my life. Hence the name of this Blog 'Highly Favored'


Who would ever imagine writing a testimony associated with 'letting go'? Last night I had a letting go experience that re-awakened my appreciation and thankfulness to God and for my Mother.

I got my first car right after graduating from High School.   My first job after High School was working at Wal Mart and one evening I was working the closing shift which ended around 10:30/11.  I would take the bus to work, the bus stop was a very looooong walk from my home at the time, and uphill climb too.  My sweet mom would pick me up in the evenings/night when my shift was over. 

One night I was getting off the late shift and usually my Mother would be there waiting by the time I'm ready to leave, this night she was not. Just about all my co-workers leaving asked, do you need a ride? I replied no, my mother is coming for me.  As time passed and I didn't see her, I wasn't sure what happened but I just knew she was coming for me.  Well after waiting a very long time and with just about everyone gone, I realized something must be wrong and I started walking home.  I would stop along the way and use a pay phone (1998) and call home several times....no answer. So I kept walking and praying that I would not be harmed.  After walking a very looong distance I saw a car make a BIG round about in the road and stopped!  It was my mother trying to hold her composure and fright/panic attack.  She related that she overslept and didn't hear any of my phone calls.  She said she woke up and looked at the time and was almost paralyzed when she remembered that she needed to pick me up and her mind started being flooded of what could/may/might have happened to me. 

After that incident my Mom bought me car (used) out of necessity as I was also about to begin going to school college locally and to make my commuting easier from work to school to home etc. 

The testimony of this post happens a couple years later.  I was 21 years old and came home one random day and saw a brand new Toyota Solara, (2 door, V6, silver, sunroof, power seats and all the works)  parked in front of our home.   I said to my mom, someone parked a nice car in front of our house.  My mother laughed and said, that is your car!  I was confused because the car I had was perfectly fine, no problems and I didn't understand,  my car! really? why?!  

Do you know that my Mother bought me a brand new car just to express how proud she was of me? and how much she loves me? 

I was OVERWHELMED.  I resented the car initially. I didn't jump up or squeal for joy because I felt like this was just too much for me. I felt like I hadn't done anything "special" to deserve this.  I felt like this should be for someone else not me, I'm not a show off, flashy type of person, just easy going and content, don't like to be the center of attention or anything like that. 

Well my friends, my mother had to coax me and tell me I'm worth it and so much more and that I deserve it etc, etc. I was afraid to go in the car and to drive it.  She had to demand that I drive the car and little by little I came to accept. 

The letting go part happened last night.   We sold the car and  I cried so much just remembering the sentimental story behind this faithful and favored ride that God through my Mother blessed me with. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us  "To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven." 

The season came last night to say goodbye to this special car that holds with it this precious story and history.  But I'm learning that in letting go God can and will replace in a more abundant way for this present season of my life.

God Favors Me.........Again

I'm going to be a mother to another Son again!.......you can read about my other children Here.  Today, my dear respected brother and friend called me to announce that he and his wife has chosen me to be the God mother of their third son Benjamin.  Benjamin is due in three weeks which would make his birth month April like myself and my other two boys.  Could this be providential?.....I don't know.

It's ironic that I was feeling so down especially after attending their baby shower on Saturday night.  I had fun but I couldn't help after getting home, reflecting on all the young ladies many married and  expecting mothers as evidenced by their little or big bumps.  Many by my estimation were within my age group a few older a few younger. 

When I got home I was like God!!!!! what happen to me....why am I still waiting, how much longer do I need to wait God.. I'm not going to lie I was mad and annoyed with my loving, sweet Jesus (let me be honest and real).  I still love Him, I still appreciate all the blessings, I still know that I can't exist wholly without God holding my hand. 

But today, my sadness is turned to joy as my friends could have chosen any one else (they have a lot of friends)....a married couple to be the God Mother/Parents for their child, but I was the chosen one. 

God has favored this household again with the joy of a child a boy child too.  I welcome you in advance Benjamin.....your name is great and mighty.  I look forward to sharing the joys of parenting with your parents and introducing you to your two brothers Isaiah and Josiah.   

May your days ahead be filled with health, strength, courage, Godly virtues and success in spiritual and physical matters in Jesus Name with thanksgiving I pray......AMEN.  Welcome my Child Benjamin.

God Favors Me....Testimony

I thank God for His continued mercy, grace, protection, deliverance and FAVORS that He displays in my life. Hence the name of this Blog 'Highly Favored'  Other God Favors Me Posts can be viewed by clicking on these: Favor; and  Favor and Favor and More Favor

For the past six years there has been a legal issue that my family has been dealing with.

While we know that God covers and has been faithful, We still had this lingering thing following us,in the back of our mind it was there.  It's like when Paul talked about the thorn in His flesh that would not leave.

2 Corinthians 12:7  Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.

God knows how to keep us humble and dependent on him.  I know that I've prayed and cried out to God more that ever in my life and while the response/solutions were not always immediate, God knows what He is doing.  I know He knows, because the deep down peace (my definition of peace is evidenced by ones ability to sleep well, concentrate and focus, laugh, talk, eat,be thoughtful of others; in other words knowing there is an issue at hand but be able to function wholly) that He has given me truly is a gift from God.

(v.8) Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

This peace that I've experienced doesn't mean that I wasn't concerned.  I was concerned, but my concern did not consume my life or thoughts or spirit.  God demonstrated His power to keep me and perfect my weakness (my definition of weakness in this instat is ones propensity when facing challenges to be despondent, unable to focus/function, constant worry, easily irritated, depressed etc.)  God kept me from experiencing all these things because I trusted Him to know that he would not forsake me or leave me.  I've trusted Him to prepared a table before me in the presence of my enemies. I trust God because He has not brought me this far to leave me.

(v.10) That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

I have learnt something about myself through all this.  I have learnt that I am strong. This strength is not of my own, but God given strength ( my definition of strength is the ability to go though and no one knows or have an incline because of how you carry yourself; not whining, complaining or attention seeking). God has given me strength of character, resilience and a persevering spirit.

God has awarded us closure;  closure in our Favor.  This long drawn out issue now finally coming to a close has kept me grounded, humble, centered on God. Most importantly, I've proven God to be Faithful, A Provider,  Protector............Hallelujah..Thank you Jesus.... You move all mountains.... YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!!

This Week

Whew!!  This week I've encountered one challenge after the other, after the other, was crazy.  The A/C started blowing warm air over the weekend, On Monday on my way to work, various dashboard lights came on (check engine, exclamation, VSA);  Also on Monday while having renovations done in the Kitchen a leak in the sealing was discovered previously hidden from worn out plumbing upstairs. Also discovered that an appliance being professionally installed was damaged. In addition,  a friend calling me in tears because her husband closed their joint account and opened up a new one in his name only without her knowledge and all the money is now in his name.

I became so overwhelmed, I didn't know if I should laugh or cry.  I was just in a state of shock and numbness knowing I needed to keep a level head in order to work though these issues one by one.

I am declaring that God is a provider and a way maker. I took the car to the dealer yesterday and the A/C problem was covered by a recent recall and extended warranty and I didn't need to pay for the A/C repairs.  Thank you Jesus.

Without any hassle, the store offered pick up the damage appliance and deliver another one this week.

A plumber came out to fix the plumbing and leak and though it was a costly repair, I am not destitute financially.

I've been praying for my friend with the husband issue and I believe that her story will end in victory.

Prayer:

God, I thank you for making a way this week with all the various challenges that presented itself.  Thank you for helping me deal with them and that amicable and quick resolutions were obtained.  You are always on time, a way maker, a provider and protector you are Alpha and Omega the head of all principality and power. 

God I love you and thank you for always being on time.  Please send your comforter to my friend experiencing some challenging times in her home. God you know all about her situation. Give her clarity in thought and send your peace to abide with her. Carry her during these trying times and increase her strength and resolve to survive and be victorious In Jesus name I pray....Amen.

Update

Several posts ago I wrote about a Fellows Leadership Development program that was being offered at work.  I was excited about this opportunity and submitted my application.

I realized I didn't do a follow up post.  Well, I was accepted and have since completed the training.  The training itself was very enlightening. We did personality and communication style assessments and learned our strengths and areas that can be improved upon to be more effective with other personality styles.  We sat through hours of classroom training that was fun and entailed lots of interaction and activities about effective leadership.  

We have a capstone project to do/implement in our work areas and a presentation to make to the Fellows Program Organizers.  I am still working on my capstone project and looking forward to implementing and presenting the results.

I thank God for being accepted in the program and all that I have leaned.  I pray that God continues to mold me to be effective in what ever I do and in whatever capacity I serve.

God Favors Me......#4

I thank God for His continued mercy, grace, protection, deliverance and FAVORS that He displays in my life.  Hence the name of this Blog 'Highly Favored' 

It was around July last year, I was leaving work early to go to a business related appointment.  As I exited the building there was another young lady that I don't know personally but we normally greet each other and have minimal small talk about the weather in the elevators or just say hello while passing each other in the halls. 

So this particular day we exited the building and greeted each other and talked about how nice the weather was that day.  As we entered the parking lot, I said enjoy the rest of your day and headed towards my car.  I proceeded to turn the key and the car made a funny sound but did not start.  I tried it again and and a few more times and got the same and I'm thinking to myself....this could not be happening, why isn't the car starting? I have an important appointment in the next 30 minutes or so, I cant believe this is happening!

Before I could think another word, the same young lady came to my car and said, are you having problems with your car? Do you need help?  I was so surprised and overwhelmed at her graciousness.  I responded and described what was happening.  I told her that I was going to see if the security would be able to help me and she said that she would wait until I got back.  I came back disappointed as somehow I wasn't able to get someone to assist.

She suggested that she would pull her car around and we could try the jump start because i indicated that I keep jumper cables as a safety measure.   Because the hood of my car was parked inward instead of out and there were other cars to the right and left of mine, we had a problem as the cables would not be able to reach.  She suggested that I put the car in neutral and push the car out of the parking space (this is a SUV).  I happily and readily agreed and we did! the both of us small and relatively petite Ladies pushed this SUV out of the parking space.  I couldn't believe that while we were doing this about two men passed us and did not ask if we needed help.

Any way we got the vehicle out and she pulled her SUV up and when she popped her hood we could not find her battery.  She thought quickly and said let me contact one of my co-workers, he is very helpful and knows about this kind of thing.  She called her co-worker and he came out and we used his car, I got my battery started and was able to get to my appointment and finalize my business though I was understandably late.

I graciously thanked them both, but especially thanked this young lady that was definitely a good Samaritan to me that day.  To God be the Glory for always providing.


I am Highly Favored by God.

God Favors Me....# 3

I thank God for His continued mercy, grace, protection, deliverance and FAVORS that He displays in my life.  Hence the name of this Blog 'Highly Favored' 

I thank God for having the opportunity to experience the joys of motherhood.  I have two sons. Though I did not personally conceive them and give birth to them physically,  I have been blessed to be a part of sharing in their growth and everyday experiences which include both the good, pleasant and lovely as well as the not so fun experiences as well.

I am the 'God mother' of two remarkable boys. 

Son  #1

Isaiah was born in 2001. We share the same birth month April. He was and still is handsome and sweet as ever.  His mom and I were friends from middle school through high school.  I would take him on the weekends ever since he was about 8 months old.  He enjoyed going to Sabbath School on Saturday morning and learning and interacting with the other children.  when he became about 2-3 years he would cry if we were late and he missed the children's activities at church.  I know people tend to exaggerate the qualities of people they love but in this case there is no exaggeration to say that I am honored to know and be apart of Isaiah's life who is so obedient, respectful, intelligent, loving and kind.  My mother loves him to death and she often refers to him as "A Gift from God."  People would ask her, who is this and she would say, " This is my son, a gift from God."  he got so use to hearing that phrase that there were times where my mom would say, this is my son and forgot the Gift from God part, he would tap her and say, Mama....remember I'm a gift from God and she would say oh yes...this is my son, a Gift from God. 

Both my mom and I love Isaiah very much and we are so honored and grateful to be apart of his life.  Isaiah's mom contemplated having an abortion when she found out she was pregnant. She had an appointment set and her bag ready. Her main reason was that she was afraid of her mother's response if she found out.  I begged and pleaded with her not to and told her that I would pray for something bad to happen to her if she did. I am so thankful that the holy spirit worked on her heart and she decided against this horrible decision.  I can go on and on and on about the experiences we have shared with this blessed child but all I will say is that he fills my heart with joy.  He is now 11 years old and though he does not come over as often as when he was younger, every opportunity I get I counsel him on making the right choices with friends. We talk about drugs, peer pressure, school/college, career choices, promiscuity, predators, Gods Love etc.

Son #2

Josiah was born in 2011 in my birth month April.  His mom and I became friends in College while pursuing our undergraduate studies. Josiah's personality is spunky, energetic, loving, and a quick learner. At 18 months Josiah communicates better than any toddler that I've met.  He communicates clearly and says hungry, sleepy, Yes, No (appropriately), He says Thank you for anything you do for him without prompting.  He is a unique character. 

I am so honored to be involved in his early development and I feel so privileged to be apart of his life. He is a point of prayer in my household as he has a very strong willed personality.  My mom and I are privileged to help his mom grow him in the way of the Lord and I look forward to seeing what the future holds in store for Josiah.

My Prayer

Lord, I thank you for bringing these precious boys in my life who will one day become honorable men.  Thank you for allowing me to enjoy the pleasures of motherhood in grooming, nurturing, loving and caring for Isaiah and Josiah. I pray that you will continue to use me to be a positive instrument in their lives. Please continue to help me help them be well rounded and they will grow to know you and love you.

I am Highly Favored..

God Favors Me.....#2

I thank God for His continued mercy, grace, protection, deliverance and FAVORS that He displays in my life.  Hence the name of this Blog 'Highly Favored' 

What kind of person would I have become without the Mother that God appointed for me?  I am not sure, but I am grateful for the person I am because of my Mother. 

In High school, my Senior year English class had a lesson on writing rhythmic poems.  The topic of my poem was.... 'My Mother'  It was such a beautiful and Truthful poem I wish I could find it.  I remember some but not all the words but the few lines I remember makes me smile wide and proud. I would post it but don't know where to find it..I'ts been many years since High School.

Moving forward though, there are so many notable things to write about my mom and her influence in my life especially towards God and spiritual matters.    

My Mother taught me:

How to pray, not by repeating words, but by demonstrating in her own life over the years, how to tarry in the presence of God in prayer and fasting for a breakthrough.

How to depend on God by being a faithful thither.  Even as a single mom, she was faithful in tithing at times even going above the 10%without blinking or second guessing and even now God's window of blessing continues to pour out.  I have followed her example and GOD is Faithful concerning His promises. So many testimonies.....One of which is, I never received financial aid or needed student loans nor did I get a scholarship for tuition (undergrad or graduate school).  I have up to a Master's degree and no student debt.  Praise be to God for his financial blessings and a hard working Mother who was determined that her child would not have school related debt.

How to be a Lady.  Ever since a tiny tot, my mom has always taught me how to be a lady (how to sit properly, speak properly, comport myself, etc.)  Through the years...individuals seem to be drawn to me, even as a child and the mantle of Favor has followed allowing many doors to open up for me.

Lord I thank you for the Gift of my Mother.  She has been a strong tower in my life and without her encouragement, prayers, dedication, example, tears, determination, testimony, expectations, I would not have known how to acknowledge and appreciate you.  I would not have amounted, achieved or succeeded.  Please continue to teacm me how to honor my Mother in all ways and at all times.

I am Highly Favored.

God Favors Me....Entry #1

I thank God for His continued mercy, grace, protection, deliverance, FAVORS He displays in my life.  Hence the name of this Blog 'Highly Favored' 

I recently applied to a Fellowship program being sponsored at work.  One of the application requirements was an Essay in addition to several other factors which include the approving signature/endorsement of my immediate Director and her Director.

After submitting my application for signatures, this is the feedback I received from the Director:

" I am so excited you’ve decided to do the Fellows Program and I wholeheartedly support your decision.  Your essay was wonderful – I actually got goose bumps!  I believe you do have the makings of a great leader, and I look forward to watching you accomplish your dream."

Today I thank you God for your Favor and Favor among 'men' it is written in your word:

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

I am Highly Favored...