MEETTA TALKS - "HOMEMADE"

"HOME MADE"

Excerpt from a song by Nicole Mullen

"...See the not-so good ole days can make you weak or make you break.

And I've never been, the most beautiful.

No, I ain't never been, the most popular.

But it's amazing what... love can do!

It's amazing what a little love can do."

"Every thought and action hits like a boomerang

what goes around will come back baby, so careful what you say.

and the little ugly duckings are swans that got away

'Cause Cinderella stories, they still happen every day.

Well the not-so-good old days can make you weak or make you break."

I've never been ...

Don't care, I've never been the most popular.

Still it's amazing what, love can do!

It's amazing what a little love will do!..."

It'a amazing what...home made love can do!

Readers,

Remember! "Meetta Talks" is where I share my life experiences with you. Today, the topic is music! I know some of you have told me that you like the music on this site. Among the regular music on this site, I've just added several new songs, #'s 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 & 8. Number 4 is "Homemade" by Nicole Mullen. You may wonder why I chose any of my music selections, (which I hope you enjoy). I chose them because I wanted the music to reflect me. I wanted it to reflect what I stand for, and be comparable to my writings which come from a place deep inside me. Only thing is, I am not singing the music nor did I write it, but it speaks alot to me, and of me. I hope you hear something that will remind you, of you or at least inspire, excite or comfort you!

And yeah, I went through "homemade" in Jr. and high school, (kind of!).

I dressed decent, but nothing fancy. I was not the prettiest thing and the boys would tease me even in high school! I never got asked out to homecoming or anything! I even went stag to my own prom and ended up being prom Queen! God was with me even then. When your enemies try to crush you, God will lift you up! As far as finances, alot of the other kids in my semi-private high school came from households a little better than mine, financially speaking and in some other ways too! It was a treat for me just to be able to go that school in the first place!

While many of the kids came from regular hardworking family homes, one of my classmates was the child of an "old school" international, celebrity from the local area. That kids purses were more expensive than one of my whole outfits! She and her friends drove themselves to school and I took the bus. They paid to get their hair done regularly. They wore nice makeup all of the time and had their nails professionally done. They seemed so well put together! They also always seemed like they had money to order out for lunch or pay for it in the cafeteria.

I couldn't do that. Lot's of times, I brought my own lunch, even throughout my Senior year!

Anyway, That same kid taunted me from Jr. year all the way through Senior year! She really challenged me! It's amazing, I NEVER BEAT THAT KID UP! And I had SO much anger in me because she was trying to make me feel bad about myself. And God knows I could have crushed that girl! My favorite cousin and my Granny spent quite a bit of time, trying to calm me on the days I would come home so very frustrated about this girl dogging me. They would tell me that she wasn't worth it. She wasn't worth the trouble getting kicked out of school or getting thrown into juvenile hall. My cousin shocked me when she was comforting me, because she was the fighter! Shoot, she'd fight a man with no problem!

To my Cousin and my Granny, for those times, I will be forever grateful.

It's SO AMAZING WHAT A LITLE LOVE CAN DO!

God was with me even then. And he was with that particular classmate too, come to think of it!

At some point in Senior year, this same kid was ragging on me in one of our classes and no one was laughing at her jokes anymore! Even the teacher said, "you see she's not going to respond. Can't you see, she's never responded, at least not in front of me! Take a cue from Meetta and grow up!" Somebody else said, "Yeah...That's right! Meetta has never been mean to you. Leave her alone!" WOW! I thought. Some one's been watching me be restrained. They think it's cool! So many times, I thought I was weak because I didn't react! I've learned that sometimes you can't fight evil with evil, but with kindness!

And when we graduated, I won the Principals award that year. The highest award you can get outside of Valedictorian (at least from my high school). I was in the class o 87' from St. Martin De Porres. When they called my name for the award. SHE WAS THE FIRST PERSON TO JUMP UP, STARTED CLAPPING AND SHOUTING MY NAME. WOW! I thought! ....

What the hell is wrong with her?

I remember, because she was sitting directly behind me on the stage!

I guess high school wasn't that bad! In my junior and senior year, I helped my grandmother pay some the costs for my schooling. I paid for my entire Senior trip (including spending money), paid for my year book stuff and my prom ALL MYSELF! My Grandmother was sweet. She wanted to help, but I wanted to do it on my own! I was working at Little Caesars Pizza in Downtown Detroit, which a teacher at my school helped me get. Her husband was an executive for the company.

I got teased in Jr. High too! but many of you did also! I got teased by the prettiest girls in school. Seemed like they ran in the same group! Though we weren't friends, we knew of each other. Many of us had attended the same elementary too! But I remember this one particular girl who was in a grade higher than me. She and the rest of the girls I mentioned, we all lived in the same neighborhood and that sucked! Sometimes they would threaten to beat me up! So even walking through the neighborhood if, if I saw them, I would often make a detour. Anyway, "Michelle" she was a natural, down to earth beauty, a true 'around the way girl!' She was so popular and cool too! But she used to tease me in school and in the neighborhood along with the rest.

Still, I was envious of her, but you know what?

I saw her again when I was in my 20's. I was standing at the bus top and this woman came up to me and struck up a conversation. she was quite pleasant and then asked me for some money.

I wanted to help and I looked her in her face and realized it was "HER! It was Michelle!

I thought I recognized her, but was kind of unsure. She looked so tired and run down. I asked her if she remembered me. She said yes, but I'm not sure if she did or not. Maybe she was just saying that to get my money, but I remembered her! I felt so sad and flabbergasted at the same time! I...I just!! I cried standing there as she walked away. That was one of those memorable times, when I have felt so sad in myself for someone else, so much so that it left me pained.

Anyway, despite all, I made it out of school alive and well! It was tough though being ridiculed by my peers, especially when my life was already hard. It is amazing! It's amazing how things change for them too! Some for the better and Some for the worse.

Still, You never forget the things or moments that caused you to grow!

BYE!

SOCIAL SCENE-SUICIDE, Pt. 5 of 5, HELP RESOURCES

ACT FAST...

Many people have said, "Suicide is not chosen, it happens when pain exceeds resources for coping with pain." If you know of someone contemplating suicide!

THERE IS HELP AVAILABLE!

RESOURCES

~"If you need immediate help for yourself or for someone else, contact 911 to get immediate help. DON'T BE ASHAMED to tell them what the problem is. They are their to help.

~You can also call 1-800- SUICIDE (or 1-800-273-TALK.)

~Other resources include your clergy or church organization, a trusted family member or friend to go through seeking help together. You can also contact your employee assistance program (if your job has one, but make sure you check! Don't assume they don't have one.)

~www.suicide.org

~www.afsp.com

(American Society for Suicide Prevention) or

~www.survivorsofsuicide.com

Bye for now and

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES PEOPLE!

Meetta

SOCIAL SCENE-SUICIDE, Pt. 4 of 5, DO'S & DONT'S

SUICIDE...

Do's and Don'ts...

DO... take suicidal comments seriously.

DO... respond to suicidal statements.

DO... encourage the person to seek professional help.

DO... help find resources.

DO...offer to take the person to get help.

DO...get rid of any lethal means of committing suicide;

poisons, pills, drugs, guns, rope, sharp instruments and other weapons etc..

DON'T...act shocked or panicked!

DON'T say...things like "Oh, you don't mean that!".

DON'T...intervene alone.

DON'T WAIT!

"When a person makes a decision to commit suicide, they may suddenly become calm. Their decision provides relief because the suicidal person has found a "solution." to their problems. DO NOT IGNORE THIS!

DON'T ASSUME THEY ARE FINE NOW!

Do not ignore this state of calm or apparent wellness.

If you think a friend or loved one is planning suicide, don't be afraid to ask and investigate.Don't take their word for it, especially if you have noticed a change in their behavior towards this end. They may be prone to lie to protect their "solution." Don't let your fear of the answer inhibit you form asking this question. Most people considering suicide will talk about it. If necessary, act to get emergency help form the police so they can intervene. You may have to contact the police over the suicidal person's objections. But if the suicidal act is imminent, delay will only make the risk of suicide more likely.

Part 5 will be up shortly

Bye!

SOCIAL SCENE- SUICIDE, Pt. 3 of 5, What are they feeling?

Suicide...

WHAT ARE THEY FEELING?

"You may not think so, but "many people have thought about suicide, but most will never make an attempt. Those that do make attempts may frequently focus on resolved life problems. This can offer clues to their desperation. They may focus on unstoppable pain and say how there is no way out. They may not be to able to sleep, eat, or work. They may experience profound depression and the inability to make sadness go away. They may not see themselves as worthwhile or valuable."

WHO'S AT RISK?

"Those at greatest risk of suicide have often experienced a disruptive life event such as the following, for example."

~Loss of a loved one.

~Divorce, separation, (broken relationship)

~Loss of child custody

~Serious accident.

~Sexual violence: Rape, sexual abuse

~Verbal, emotional, physical abuse

~Assault, kidnapping

~Chronic or terminal illness

~A negative outlook on life. (Things won't or can't get better)

~Alcohol or drug abuse

~A victim of bullying

If you know of someone who is or has been experiencing some of these symptoms,

Don't ignore this. Treat it as urgent and get help!

* Reference material supplied by a local area hospital.

Take care! Meetta

SOCIAL SCENE-Signs of Suicidal Thinking, Pt. 2 of 5

Social Scene...

Signs of Suicidal Thinking.

"A suicidal person may talk of self-destructive behavior: Maybe I should just jump from the roof." or "My family (the world) would be better off without me" or something just as equally haunting. If someone is saying this to you, Don't ignore it!

Treat it as urgent!

There may be sudden interest in firearms or poisons. They may write poetry about death or listen to music about suicide or other depressing music! If your friend or loved one is on medication, you may notice conspicuous overuse that could be lethal. Maybe they've started becoming withdrawn and giving their personal items (especially favorite things) away. Perhaps they are returning gifts that you gave them, that you know they liked! Don't ignore this! Treat it as urgent!

OTHER WARNING SIGNS may include!

"Alcohol, or drug abuse or both combined with depression have been signs of persons who may be candidates for suicide. Feeling trapped and having a high level of cynicism toward others at home, school or work may be a symptom as well. Also those who experience dramatic mood swings, uncontrollable rage, or outburst, a desire for revenge, blatant recklessness and statements of hopelessness, have represented the emotional status of some persons who have either attempted suicide or have committed suicide. Again, Don't ignore this!

Treat it as urgent!

Seek help for them until they get the help they need!

Caring is being a "true friend" or loved one.

*Reference material provide by a local area hospital.

PART 3, coming up soon!

SOCIAL SCENE- SUICIDE, Pt.1 of 5,

Social Scene...

is where I write about issues that concern us all! Including issues that affect society as a whole including racism, economic, politics, religion and issues that affect our well being including food processing in America and suicide etc.. The latter leads us to our topic today. With so many problems stemming from the country's financial crisis, including personal bankruptcies, loss of jobs, retirement funds and investments, foreclosures and divorces, many people have faced great uncertainty and may fear being swallowed up by it! In desperate time, often people turn to desperate measures and desperate ways of thinking.

SUICIDE ...

Is a permanent solution to a temporary problem! Remember that!

Unfortunately though, many men, women and children have either tried to commit suicide or actually succeeded at it. Yes! People did it for different reasons, but generally it also comes down to pain, some sort of anguish. Usually, though,the problems may seem inescapable in the moments they are being experienced, the solution doesn't have to include suicide! Even if the moments lasts for months, the solution still does not have to be so permanent as to cost a precious life this way! Depending on what your spiritual or religious beliefs are, there is no relief in the eternal when you take your life this way.

One of God's greatest commandments is ...

"Thou shall not kill!"

THAT INCLUDES KILLING YOURSELF!

He will hold you accountable for even taking your own life! Now even in the after life, you got MORE problems because now you have to stand before God in judgement and explain why you wasted the precious gift of life HE gave to you!

SO, WHERE'S THE RELIEF IN THAT?

Facts about suicide:

"Every 40 seconds, someone attempts suicide. Every 17 minutes, someone succeeds. Over 400, 000 failed attempts a year end up with serious injuries. In most cases,the person who commits suicide has tried before and made numerous attempts to reach out to others. Ninety percent of suicides are associated with mental illness, such as depression. And 50% of suicides are associated with alcohol or drug abuse."

*Reference material provided by a local area hospital.

Until next time!

B.I.B.L.E.- WHO IS JESUS?, Pt. 1 of 5

Hey There, New Christians and those that are seeking!

Welcome back to B.I.B.L.E., (Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth).

The last time I "spoke" with you all in this column, was on April 8, 2010 in post called "The Last 7 words of Jesus the Christ".

Sorry to keep you waiting. In any case, WELCOME BACK!

Today's lesson will undoubtedly be a series of articles. Reason being, you cannot possibly introduce, expound and wrap up this particular topic all in one or two articles! Cause it ain't happening. IT JUST AIN'T HAPPENING!" You can't do it! So without further adu, let's start!

Many people believe that Jesus is the Son of God, born of a young virgin, named Mary and raised by Mary's soon to be husband, Joseph. They believe that the spirit of the Holy Ghost "came upon Mary" and filled her. Nine months later, in a animal shed, Jesus The Christ was born.

As Jesus grew, being a child scholar, dedicated to being "about his Father's business", he spent much time in the temples learning of God. As he grew, by trade Jesus, mastered the skill of carpentry. At 30 years of age is when he began to pursue his ministry, which amazingly enough only lasted 3 years, initially. After that he was crucified, hung on a cross and killed for our sins. So, it is written. In fact, Jesus, allowed his life to be taken. He "GAVE" HIS life for us! He gave it, for those that believe in him and yet, even for those who do not! Since this is going to be a series, Let me make this first post short because I want to get you started in Scripture. I don't want to delay your search for knowledge and "truth" any further.

I always tell you what Bible I use for this posts. Use which version you will. There are so many versions. I have at home, the King James version, and I also use another version. The latter one, is the one I am using today for you because it breaks the down the meaning of the King James version , just enough to help me understand it. some translation may be lost though. Then again, unless you have actual scrolls, regardless which version you use, much of the translation has been lost.

Life Application Study Bible, N.I.V.

(New International Version).

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Wheaton, Illinois

SCRIPTURE

JOHN 3:16-21

(v. 16) "For God so loved the world that he gave his on and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (v.17) For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (v.18) Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. (v.19) This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

(v. 20) Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. (v.21) But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

FOOTNOTES;

*See also the B.I. B.L.E. post from February 7, 2010.

The footnotes on John 3:16-21, are there.

They were also used in my series of articles on "Salvation".

Be back with part 2 of

"WHO IS JSESUS?"

MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN-DIVORCE

Readers,

this information comes from a local organization that specializes in helping people through such matters as divorce.

"Divorce can be one of life's most stressful experiences. It also can be a time of creating new relationships, a time for growing and learning. A time for re-establishing yourself! Understanding emotional and physical stresses that often come from experiencing divorce is the first step in leaning how to deal with them. When you acknowledge and accept your feelings, your learning to care for yourself an you family during this difficult time, you'll not only become aware that you can cope with divorce, but also survive it!"

EMOTIONAL STRESS

Separating from someone you had hoped would be your life-partner is usually painful. You might feel like a failure. You may miss the warmth, friendship, financial security and sex you had or hoped you would have with that particular person. Divorce is especially painful if everyone you know seems to be happily married, or if you get little support from your own family.

Your job as a parent is suddenly that much bigger if you now have primary responsibility for the children. You may have less time to spend with them, yet their needs are greater. If you did not want the separation, your resentment and anger may flare up around them, although it's not their fault. You and your former spouse may have conflicts about child support. If you are a parent whose children are not living with you, you may feel guilty, lonely resentful. You may worry that the children may forget you or be turned against you.

*RECOGNIZE YOUR FEELINGS. It's normal to feel lonely, sad or resentful during a divorce (or even at the end of your unmarried relationship. Heartbreak is heartbreak, you know!)

PHYSICAL STRESS

As in any distressful situation, your body is affected. Ongoing stress and cause minor and major illnesses, including headaches, backaches, heart attacks, stroke, the weakening of your immune system, and even cause stomach problems including ulcers. Even if you feel relieved by the divorce, you may have physical symptoms.

TAKE CARE!

You may not be able to change your situation, but you can stay healthy during the transition if you take care of yourself.

*Recognize your feelings. Its normal to feel lonely, frustrated or even hopeless.

Pound on a bed or yell in the care, where no one can hear or see you release your feelings.

*Reach out to others. Friends, relatives, support groups and therapists can support you

too! A hug, phone call, e-mail, twitter message, a phone call or even a visit mean a great deal.

*Take risks. Try a new activity.

It will keep your mind off your problems and help you to meet new people.

*Treat your body well. Cut down on alcohol and smoking. Eat healthy, tasty food. Get exercise! Walking is always good. RELAX! GO to a spa or treat yourself to do-it-yourself

at-home treatments, including taking a long hot soaking bath.

To end I will say, "taking care of yourself and taking risks can have surprising benefits. don't be surprised if eventually you are stronger, more joyful, have inner peace, are more confident and more content than you were before."

Bye Now,

but remember...

Divorce, you can survive it.

And after that, you will begin and continue to thrive. LIVE!

Meetta

Men, Women & Children-Nothing Like Being a Child!

"INSPIRATION STATION"

(Reader, whenever you see "Inspiration Station", you know a poem is sure to follow.)

NOTHING! LIKE BEING A CHILD!

By Ms. Meetta Martin

From her book, "You Can't Say That!";

Poetry to Strengthen, Heal and Encourage"~ (2002)

Today did not feel like a good day!

I have never felt so lost as I feel now,

Well, maybe not since I was a child!

Back then, like now, I did not always have anyone to lovingly hold my hand.

It is amazing how I got to be who I am!

But there was nothing like being a child,

with my parents running wild!

At age ten and even younger,

(I remember even being 7 when this would happen!)

I was left home alone to fend for myself against the unknown.

Momma used to say, "Don't open the door and don't answer the phone.

Don't let anyone know you are here alone.

I'll only be gone a few minutes, you know what trouble is,

so don't you get in it!"

She was usually gone for more than just a few minutes!

Sometimes, a couple of hours were more like it!

I was so afraid back then, that I would just stay in the front of our big house

and set myself up in the window waiting for Momma to come home again.

I was so afraid, that I wouldn't go to pee until I couldn't hold it anymore!

Top the bathroom I'd run as fast as I could, then I'd run back out to the front again!

I used to wonder,

how my mother could leave me all on my own!

A small child, a prisoner in my own home.

In my home,

there was nothing like being a child.

Alone and scared with my whole world running wild!

After my Dad left my Mom, nothing was the fun or safe anymore!

My Mom was working somewhere to get the rent.

Often times she worked 1 and 2 jobs!

Other times she would just be hanging out with friends.

sometimes, my brothers and me, went a day or two

without even seeing her!

I was mad at her!

How COULD SHE LEAVE HER PRECIOUS BABY GIRL ALONE or

WITH THESE BOYS!

Though they were my brothers, they couldn't be trusted!

I didn't ask to be here!

My parents chose, so why didn't they take care?

There is nothing like being a child with your parents running wild!

Jumping back to my adult feelings and how my day is going,

makes me know I was blessed to keep growing!

When it comes to family, and caring for their kids,

I cannot tell anyone how to be.

I can only tell you what I see!

Hurt, pain dealt by my family's hands.

It hurt when my Dad up and ran away!

The reason? My Mom really didn't say back then.

I simply did not understand it!

I just felt left behind. Betrayed.

Neglected.

Parents concentrating on self, neglecting a family!

I may not know the absolute correct way to deal with marriage problems,

and care for a family, but the the way I was raised...

I absolutely do not recommend it!

Though the adults hurt,

The children also suffer and have to deal with it!

There is NOTHING LIKE being a child

with your parents running wild!

"Talk" with you later! Meetta

FOR WOMEN ONLY!-JUST A CHILD!

Hey Sister Girls!

I know! I KNOW! You were expecting an article last week, I've been slightly behind. Won't tell you the reasons, (or excuses) Not necessary. But as always, I have good stuff for you this time. Though, if you've been reading my blog for a while, then you know, I never disappoint. To make it up to you, I am doubling up on articles this week women. So, are you ready?

Met another lady this weekend in Self-Defense training that has been going through a lot lately with addiction and abuse. Memories from her past, haunted her. To recognize that and support her, I stood up (as I was sitting down). I stood up as she spoke, as a gesture that I now stand with her as she once again seeks to conquer those demons. She is a woman in her late 40's, early 50's and is still haunted by abuse as a young girl and young woman. See, it reminds us all that attacks on the female has happened to millions of us! WE MUST STAND UP!

STAND UP WOMEN AND BE COUNTED!

Stand up and let your voice be heard.

Let your outrage be felt! Let your arms reach out to other females that are in such awful pain and chained to the past. Let your compassion flow and your selfishness fall to the waist side. Let your knees buckle underneath you as you seek Gods face in prayer for the women of this world! so in my own way, I open my heart in support of you now! And for my dear new Sister Girl, that I met this weekend, I dedicate this to you.

"INSPIRATION STATION"

JUST A CHILD

By Ms. Meetta J. Martin

From her book, "You Can't Say That!"

Poetry To Strengthen, Heal and Encourage"

She was just a child!

She didn't like the tears she was cursed to cry.

She wanted to smile, but she couldn't because of the pain inside.

Her innocence was stolen away from her

by people who were expected to naturally love and protect her.

Family! and friends of,

She was abused!

Her heart was confused...

...confused about real love!

She was just a child!

She didn't deserve her painful life.

Full of innocence and wonder,

She needed someone to really love, protect and care for her!

She was a child!

SHE WAS JUST A CHILD!

We were the same age, she was my friend.

People thought I was too Young to understand.

Though my young age may have prevented me from knowing much,

though being young in age unversed in wisdom,

my young heart understood pain.

I cold never figure how I could see, but the did not!

Couldn't hey the older, supposed to be wiser, folk,

see the sadness in her eyes?

Couldn't they hear the horror, in her voice, as she spoke up about

not wanting to be left at home with certain people?

Couldn't they see how withdrawn and how quiet she became?

I was a child as young as she AND I COULD SEE!

No one would listen to her,, nor to me.

so, as I wen tot church and sang "Yes Jesus Love me.", I knew there was a God and I knew how to pray.

So I, a child as young as she, used to pray in secret,

"Oh God, come and save her."

"Strengthen the heart that you gave her. Help her to survive."

She was just a child!

Now that we are older, she doesn't hurt as much anymore any longer.

I know God heard her cries and the prayers of mine, cause she survived!

Oh! My friend? Well, she went on to teach, preach as she was grateful to God, the Father for breaking the binds that had her.

She is no longer, just a child!

*Strength and courage to all my sister girls, no matter what stage in life that you are. HOPE AND HEALING, ARE AGELESS AND they are both never ending!

TALK WITH YA LATER! MEETTA

FOR WOMEN ONLY!-JUST LISTEN

IT'S DOUBLES WEEK SISTERS.

HERE IS NUMBER 2!

INSPIRATION STATION

JuSt... LiSteN!

By Meetta Martin

From Her Book; "You Can't Say That!";

Poetry To Strengthen, Heal & Encourage~(2002)

Stop telling me what you know and that you understand.

SHHHH!

Be a true friend and for once today,

and just listen!

Stop giving me advice just for a moment

and just listen!

RIGHT NOW, I need a compassionate, listening friend!

So, if you want to hang around, stop judging and giving me your opinion!

SHHH! JUST LISTEN.

Come!

Come here and sit with me awhile in silence.

Let's enjoy the peaceful quiet that fills the room.

Shhh! Just listen.

So peaceful and calm....

....I didn't break today.

Steady your breathing.

Can you hear my heart beating in the still after the storm,

you've just helped me through?

Shhh! Just Listen.

BYE!

Men, Women & Children-"SING CHILDREN, SING!"

"Men, Women and Children" is where I continue to speak on issues concerning each one of us both individually and as a family. Though Men and Women have great issues to contend with, what about the children?

We as adults, MUST NOT forget that they also have feelings, hurts, pains, joy, needs, desires, dreams and society to contend with. Hey Little babies! Hey small children! Hey adolescents! Hey teens! HEY! I HEAR YOU! So does God!

BELIEVE!!

INSPIRATION STATION

"SING, CHILDREN SING!"

BY Ms. Meetta Martin

From her book "You Can't Say That!";

Poetry To Strengthen Heal and Encourage ~ (2002)

"Children, come unto me, " HE said.

"Let them not be forsaken".

"Children, come unto me", He said.

"Let them not be forsaken".

So, sing children sin.

Sing High!

Sing, children sing to the sky!

(I Love you Lord!")

Some people don't listen.

they don't hear your sound children, but

Sing, Children sing!

God loves a joyful sound.

From broken home and broken hearts,

you are not alone.

God is not that far.

With no one to listen and no one to care,

Just call out HIS name child,

believe and send up a prayer.

Sing, Children sing!

Sing High!

("I love you Lord"!)

Some people, they won't listen.

They won't listen.

They don't hear your sound, but

Sing, children sing out loud!

God loves a joyful sound.

This kid said to me,

You don't understand what it's like to be a child!

You are a grownup you haven't been small for a while.

You are in your own world and I am into mine.

HOW COULD YOU KNOW,WHAT I FEEL INSIDE?

YOU don't know what I feel inside!"

"I know pain", I said.

"I know a pain greater than myself!

Though I live, I am not here on my own strength.

Though my pain was great, though your pain is great

There is something greater than any kind of pain.

Just call HIS name child, believe, and send up a prayer.

believe child!"

Help will come in time!

So, sing children sing.

sing high!

Sing Children, sing to the sky!

Sing children, sing.

I LOVE YOU LORD!

GOD LOVES A JOYFUL SOUND!

See Ya! Meetta

ON THE JOB-Assertiveness vs. Aggressiveness, Pt.1 of 2

WHAT IS ASSERTIVENESS?

According to Webster's Standard Dictionary,

Assertiveness is: authoritative; insistent;

Reader,

Today we are going to talk about assertive people. You can't talk about assertive people without mentioning aggressive people. Though they are thought of as one in the same, actually, they are two different types of people!

Assertive people have the ability to be authoritative in their speaking! The can positively and constructively speak without violating the rights of others. Being Assertive doe not mean the same as aggressive! Aggressive behavior denotes negativity. Aggressive people express their rights at the expense of others or even forcibly deny the rights of others! "If you have struggled with being assertive, you may have been mislabeled aggressive. This may help you may help you feel justified about not being assertive. However, believing that assertiveness is aggressive can prevent you from taking steps to improve your assertiveness skills."

Assertiveness helps you focus on direct, honest open communications that does not deny or violate someone else's rights and helps build positive communication in relationships whatever they happen to be. Be those relationships family, friend or work related! Being assertive can help you feel more confident, gain respect from other and live a happier more fulfilled life. It can help you feel more in control of your surroundings and also improves your ability to make decisions.

The road to more assertive behavior however, can prove difficult. There often times, is that fear that if you project assertive behavior that you will get your feelings hut. That you will be rejected for speaking your mind, interjecting your ideas. Lack of confidence turning into shame can also be an issue. Many times, we put much more confidence and thought into other peoples thoughts and ideas than our own! We tend to hold theirs to a higher standard by lowering our own for ourselves. Fear not though, projecting assertiveness will not keep another person down. And not being assertive when you know you can and know hat you should only keep you down and can keep you from meeting you legitimate physical and emotional needs. As a result, you may prove to be unhappy, hurt, anxious, angry, and full of low self esteem!

There are a number of things that directly affect your assertiveness throughout your life that you may not have thought about. Take for example your childhood. How you were raised as a child, does directly shape and mold your assertive skills, right from the beginning! Learning lessons on the validity of your personal rights can cause you to act positively to grow in these lessons. You have the right to speak your mind, to say yes or not, what you will or won't accept for yourself. You have a right to be treated with respect. You have a right to privacy. These things are examples of living an assertive life. When assertive behavior is not learned and practiced, your life has the opposite affect. You may be weaker, open to abusive behavior by others, too bound by fear to speak up for yourself and so the winds of life toss you to and fro.

Some people are afraid to be assertive, stating their opinion openly in an open discussion, for example. They may think it's rude to interject their thoughts that it is somehow selfish of them to do so! Thinking that assertiveness equals selfishness is completely and utterly false! Selfishness is being excessively and exclusively concerned with oneself or thinking of ones self without regard for others. Being assertive does not dismiss or ignore the needs of others, it means incorporating them into yours and boldly recognizing yours own at the same time!

If you have problems being assertive, practice! Practice being assertive. Speak your mind on subjects that arise that interest you! Join in on group discussions. It may be hard at first, but you can do it! your voice deserves to be heard! Your thoughts are just as important as anyone else's. Practicing assertiveness "helps you confront old ways of thinking, helps you become more naturally assertive." When you start practicing assertiveness, "be patient with yourself." New habits are hard to develop. New skills come with stumbles. It's OK! You may even find yourself being assertive when it's not necessary! Be forgiving of yourself! Learning, and practicing new skills, are all apart of growing!

Finished!

See Ya, Bye!

TeEN SpEaK-POETRY, " KEEP ON GOING!"

BE ENCOURAGED

My young friends, teens and young adults! This column is specifically for you. Today, I have a poem that is directed at those of you who may have gone or may be going through a crisis and you just need some encouraging words. Especially for those of you who may have endured any form of abuse, be it sexual, emotional, verbal and or physical. Be you female or male, abuse has not favorite gender. Please know that you are "wonderfully and fearfully made." Hold on, survive and what ever else you do, keep moving forward...KEEP ON GOING!

INSPIRATION STATION

"KEEP ON GOING!"

By Ms. Meetta J. Martin from her book of poetry

"You can't Say That!"; Poetry to strengthen, Heal and Encourage~2002

You wonder where your life is going.

People tell you that you are on the wrong road.

DON'T wonder what their motive is!

Survival IS NOT EXCLUSIVE!

You live your life, trying to do things the right way.

NO SMOKING! NO DRINKING!

You may even go to church and pray.

IN any case, whatever is happening, know this, Life has a purpose!

KEEP ON GOING!

People who knew you way back when, you were a kid, some trying hard, but still they don't understand how you can still smile!

For all of the hurt and pain you went through.

It tried to kill your spirit, but it didn't!

Think of the many others, who were challenged with the same problems

and didn't live to tell it.

They didn't live to see more peaceful days.

But YOU DID!

You were chosen by the nature of God, to KEEP ON GOING.

Now in your older days, your ways have changed.

You're no longer friends with revenge and hate.

Peace and faith is on your mind.

Letting GOD in to heal your spirit.

Letting God in to love you, he gave and will give you strength, courage

and the ability to share your stories so that

you may be able to pass on your blessings.

So that, YOU for all that you endured,

will be able to STRENGTHEN AND ENCOURAGE!

For now though, just KEEP ON GOING!

BYE NOW!

ON HER SOAP BOX-THE POOR IN AMERICA

Hey Readers,

This is the column where I write what I'm passionate about. You know the stuff that gets my goat! Though that could be for better or for worse. Either way, this is where I say it, direct and out loud. and direct! Yep! I'm a bit...irate about this one...

THE POOR IN AMERICA!

I know there are people out here suffering! I know they are without their basic needs and struggling to get it! I'm just so frustrated that, number one, we live in a country that is so vibrant and rich, overflowing even in everything that anyone could want, need or dream to want. Yet, it's own citizens are without. Even those that work for what they have!

CAPITALIST AMERICA! I shout with great bitterness. Capitalists, seem to be the majority against the majority of the population.

WHY HAS THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT allowed such a lack of provision and protection of it's own residents? THEY DON'T CARE! They don't care outside of themselves. That's why it is only a few corporations that are dominating the mass market on everything that Americans, use, eat, drink, you name it! It is public knowledge and has been for hundreds of years that many (powerful) politicians in Washington (even in 2010), have financial interest in the financial working of America as well as in the world. So, it is no surprise to me, that American corporations even in their problems get undeserved tax, breaks, protection from the government, slaps on the wrist (if that ) when they break federal laws protecting consumers, workers safety, their employment, financial interests (IE. 401 ks' and other retirement funds) as well as their constitutional rights, overall! CAPITALIST AMERICA! Their is a majority even amongst the majority!

So, with that said, I still have to recognize that even in the midst of the reign of terror heaped upon the lowlies (the poor, the expendable), the individual American citizen, also has a responsibility to himself or herself! The responsibility of their own provision, does also lay heavily on them! I of all people, understand that there are a variety of reasons people are financially poor. Lack of education, lack of opportunity, lack of child support, lack of direction.

But, even knowing that is true, inside of that, many poor individuals have taken it upon themselves to NOT DO do all THAT THEY CAN to help themselves. Many people WON'T go back to school, WONT seek training to wither hone skills or produce skills for themselves. Many poor individuals WON'T get a "right attitude" that will help them gain clarity of their situation. Many of them are bitter and stubborn because of how things have affected them by the doings of Corporate America and the Political leaders, abuse of power in America! The abuse of power, crushing the heads, hopes and dreams of the even the typical, hardworking, moral minded, tax paying American citizen!

LET IT BE NOTED that the poor in America, now has a new face!

Since the collapse of the economy has allowed poverty to reached it's ugly, twisted, diseased contagious hand, into the white collar and the upper crust sect, now all of a sudden, more of the country is up in arms. Up in arms, crying out and asking the government "WHAT ARE YOU DONG TO US!".

You know, if you could see my face! Granted government is continually set up organizations and funded many organizations and departments to help the countries poor, on many levels, it has NEVER BEEN ENOUGH done! With all of the high level networking, rocket science, noble prize winning thinkers in leadership in this country, I maintain that "NOT ENOUGH HAS BEEN DONE" to render the poor in America from the diseased ridden hand of poverty.

Just as soon as some of Americas poor get a few pennies above their lunch money, the government finds a way to take it all back, plus some. It finds a way to strip the American poor right back down to it core. Many people in America, "the land of plenty", are in a very large group called the working poor! These are people who are employed, but genuinely, sincerely cannot financially support their households. Though people (generally people who have) argue that it is because poor people are more wasteful", cannot manage money, are lazy, lack motivation, I argue that (for some) that may be the case. For the vast majority though, the main reason is because they simply ARE NOT making enough money on their jobs!

Adult, educated workers, with at least a high school diploma, some with Associates degrees, "many years of life experience or on the job training", college educated folks, working for "small penance" of salaries and hour wages". This is acceptable and supported by the American Government. HOW CAN THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT ALLOW American companies in America to pay an adult worker in their 30's, 40, 50, and 60's, 70's even, $ 7.40, $7. 80, $8.50 per hour! Even at full time jobs paying that, you can't make a living. You CAN'T PAY A MORTGAGE, YOU CAN'T keep up with your monthly bills. Many are constantly in the hole every month! And being bombarded with constant shutoff notices for m the electric companies, gas and water companies don't help either!

WHY IS THERE NO REAL REGULATION on how high insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, landlords, (property owners) can go in how much they are charging consumers. Last I heard, there was no cap on what a landlord can charge its renters in Michigan! But Michigan is one of the poorer States in America! Michigan also has is home to some of the poorest cities in Michigan. Detroit is what? Number 2 or 3 in the whole SATE AND COUNTRY! It is simply outrageous!!!

"Talk" with ya later!