MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN - My Son Respects ME!

Hello, Dear Readers!

Missed me?

How is your summer going? I hope it is well.

Mine has been busy and has caused for alto for adjusting.

But things are GRAND! Life is good!

I have something new to share with you all. It's about time right? I know.

THIS STATEMENT I POSTED ON FACEBOOK A DAY OR SO AGO, has actually inspired a whole lot of dialogue. I hope you get a chance to read this"

My son said, "Mom I respect U as a person & as a mother. People R as strong as their weaknesses. U operate in strength. I say this in love... truthfully, U scare the hell out of me! A little bit like I'm scared of God. He loves me & U love me... I still remember when I said something (bad) 2 U & was walking out of the apt., U pulled me back, grabbed me, hulking me & put me in a headlock until I listened." :)

That's right, a healthy fear!

A fear bred out of knowing you are loved, cared for, provided for, nurtured, listened to and forgiven. Causing one to recognize and respect authority and the law. Encouraging strength, sharing wisdom and knowledge to arm ones self with so that they may have, seek and seize better opportunities to grow, live a successful, purposed life! Building hope that the child or person may move to a high standard of living, based on morals and integrity and provide guidance to hopefully carry them through this life as safely as possible! Understanding, the fear I speak of is the kind of fear that comes out of a genuine love that comes to prosper and not to harm. A love that promises to give hope and a future. Amen?

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NEW DIALOGUE

I knew the dreaded day would come, when my sweet teenage son would want to assert himself in independence and I would have to muster the courage and stamina to rise to the occasion to make sure it didn't get out of hand with disrespect of me, my house and himself.

This included laying down and upholding the law, of voicing your thoughts and opinions, but no rudeness, back talking, hanging out in the streets with the bad crowds, making babies you are not prepared to take care of, having girls in his room AT MY HOUSE, coming home all times of night, having a know it all smart mouth, telling me what to do (like he's my Dad,) sort of thing. This is the the time in a boys life that "old school" calls, "when a boy starts to smell himself". Puberty has struck and hormones start to influence the the mouth and actions.

A single mother, without ANY STEADY, right help from a loving male... I was left to raise a boy to be a man, on my own. Like many of you! he's 20 now, but I knew the day would come when my then, teenage son would want to assert himself and end up being disrespectful. It was VERY TOUGH! I realized, I couldn't answer every question he had concerning being a male, what he would go through as his body and mind changed, why he had to pee while he stood and why I had to sit. (He asked me the when he was 4 or 5). I realized I had to come form a different angle, if I wanted to be a proactive parent to him as I was the only one he had! I had to figure things out in order to do a fairly decent job of being a mother. Believe me, it was quite a struggle as I dint' have mother I could take ALL knowledge from to help me figure out how to do that!

I realized I COULD NOT TEACH HIM how to be a man, per say, but I realized I COULD and DID TEACH HIM how to properly treat women, and other human beings, how to say NO TO DRUGS, CRIME AND PEER PRESSURE and why that is important. I could teach him that HE IS BEAUTIFUL, special in confidence, not arrogance and that he is ALREADY SOMEBODY!

I could and did teach my male child how A True GENTLEMAN

TREATS WOMEN. That such a man, does not take sex from a woman. He does not seek to dominate a woman, but to accept her for her own distinctive beauty, gifts, talents, and personality. My son KNOWS there is MUCH MORE to a woman than just her outer exterior. He's had the fortune and misfortune of watching me!

He knows not that women are not play things, The pain he may cause by dragging her self esteem, her heart, and reputation through the mud.He understands that REAL MEN do NOT beat, humiliate or destroy ANY WOMAN women or the weak for sport. He's watched certain males in the family and the continuos deep trouble they have caused by their mistreatment of their families and mates!He understands that REAL MEN, take care of those they love! Taking care of their children even if they are not living in the same home!My son understands the pain of abandonment by a parent. He had vowed not to repeat it!

My son knows from my abusive treatment as a child and youth, that brothers protect their sisters and not harm them! I've taught him that a true gentleman and mature adult male, DOES NOT brag or tell "his boys" about the intimate relationship details of his personal life with his girlfriend or wife. I've also taught him NOT TO LET females drag him down, manipulate him or abuse him in any way! I've told him how WE females can be as well!

My son and I, have spoke many times over the years, a mans place in his household and in the world. While it is true that I could not teach my son to be a man, from a man's point of view, I've done my best other wise!

At least my son understands the value of respecting human life, authority and the law. I could and did teach him how to be a decent, respectable, God fearing, intelligent, productive, loving and compassionate human being. I realized I could pass on my strength, wisdom through LIFE LESSONS lessons opening his eyes, HAVING NO USE FOR ROSE COLORED GLASSES, but to see things as they are really happening, to be knowing, vocal and courageous. I leaned to appreciate the gift of communication with my son. AND TO KEEP THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN, even when my son tells me something I really don't want to hear! See, if I value him, then I value his thoughts!

I've given my son and opened my son up to knowledge to cause him to be a responsible, person. He knows how to grocery shop (wisely), pay bills, by having him go get the money orders, and pay the landlord, send to DTE etc. He knows about saving money. He's learned how to dress appropriately and speak to people in business, to get his point across and not be cussing, using alot of slang or being belligerent! He's learned how not to let those same people mistreat him as a customer and human being. I've taught him how to apply for jobs, speak to potential employers, how to conduct himself in an interview and on the job. How to interview the potential employer! After all, employment, is both give and take!

TALK TO YA AGAIN SOON!

Meetta

True Believer ~ Christian Relation-ships

Hey! Welcome Dear reader,

My brothers and sisters in Christ,

...as we are all related if we believe and follow in the Lord Jesus. And in Christ, our relationships with one another have nothing to do with whether or not we like or even know one another! We are uniquely related because of our association with and by our love of Christ. Because of that one fact, we are to concern ourselves about all our relationships with others including our time spent with other Christians in all capacities, on all levels. No matter if we are at work, at the church house, in the neighborhood wherever! Granted we are not perfect people because we are Godly believers. But there is so much strife in the world, in part because of the church! That's right, I said it! The church is supposed to set and uphold a higher standard for the world to copy and follow. Not mirror or reflect the world in all its mess!

How can the church be effective in teaching love, unity, standing by one another when many of us who make up the church, don't even get along with other believers! Many who don't like each other upon having met them, don't get along, can't agree, neglect their children, get divorced, throwing away their families and treating them as frivolously as those outside of Christ do! Many in the church give in to jealousy, covetousness, gossip even to the husbands, wives about others. Many slander, tear down, frustrate, manipulate, abuse, take advantage of, and oppress each other in all sorts of ways in the body of Christ, even financially!

By the way, the True Church of God is not limited to a building or to a particular space or event and time! It is not even limited to a particular social or economic sect. The True Church of God is built up of the believers in Christ who make up the body of the church regardless of ethnicity, geographical location, family connections, position or financial status. It is built of of people who have faith in God, and in Christ and are rooted in him. Amen Somebody! Can I get an Amen from True Believers who read the Bible and know what I'm talking about?

You can have fellowship, spread the gospel, celebrate God and Christ and study the word of God anywhere and at any time!

God is not limited to a building, a specific time and event. Do you hear me!

In fact, over 1 month ago, I hosted "Game Night" at the house to allow for the fellowship of some brothers and sisters in Christ that I know. And who showed up was a Pastors wife, a preaching Minister, a sister in Christ, and my son and I. We had so much fun letting our hair down and bonding with one another that we must have sounded like a whole group of people to our neighbors! There was no illicit behavior or activities of any kind going on. Nobody came here high or participated in anything synthetic. They came here high on life and the love of Christ! There was no drinking of alcohol, no drugs of any kind, no smoking, no swearing and we were just as boisterous and joyful at any party that anybody could be! Perhaps too boisterous! Because I got an e-mail from one of our nearest neighbors (who is also a proclaimed Christian), the very next day about the noise.

Though we were having a clean and joyful time, I may have made a mistake. Whether or not my neighbor would have accepted an invitation to our game night, I should have perhaps invited our neighbors. Or at least let them know what was going on because of the noise level. Either way, by doing so, perhaps the love, respect and tolerance in Christ we are supposed to have and exude would have been revealed in this matter. I've come to understand, as I hope you will Dear Reader, that though it may not be your intention to offend, even when you are in Christ there are those that get offended by what you do or how you do it. Please don't misunderstand. It is the responsibility of not one, but of both parties on both ends of the spectrum to be aware of their own accountability in such matters. Trivia Question for ya!

Did you know that it is also a sin to have an offended heart?

God is a God of love and forgiveness. God IS love! And he calls for us, especially proclaimed believers in Christ to also show love and forgiveness. Truly foregoing (releasing and taking back) offenses from one who is the offender, even if it is not our fault! See, this is because God knows without true forgiveness, there is no real freedom in such matters. God also knows that even those in the wrong, many would rather die before they come out and forgive or own up to their mistakes. So in his infinite wisdom, God often calls for the other person to be the wiser and stronger of the two and do the releasing. This is necessary, not only to set the offender free, but also the offended as well!

As for my friends who came to Game Night, we don't get to see them often and we all needed to relax because all five of us are human too! And all five of us are working towards educational achievements and or employment and just dealing with every day issues. We have chosen our fiends carefully, in who we spend our most intimate times with. Dependent upon, but not entirely based on our religious beliefs, interests and needs. Unfortunately on that night, though not meaning to, we disturbed our nearest neighbor putting an added strain on our relationship. Soon my son and I are moving. So without being a disturbance, that will allow us more fellow-shipping with dinners, game nights, spreading the gospel through cell group gatherings (church lessons at home) and not just beholding to and waiting to see each other on Sundays or at work, as the case is for our friends and I who came by.

The night began with our 3 friends coming to join my son and I and immediately we started speaking on God and Jesus. There was a spoken list of names of those that the knew stood in the need of prayer. One friend who, the preaching minister I spoke of, began to thank God for the time he had brought all five of us together. We laughed, ate, played board games, listened to music ans shared the love of Christ in discussion. See, you can fellowship with the body of Christ anywhere and at anytime! There is nothing wrong with having good clean fun, dancing, laughing and celebrating. Jesus went to weddings! The bible has many references to having and expressing Joy, including, laughter being like good medicine, making the heart merry." It's all in how and what you are celebrating!

To end on relationships in Christ (because the Bible goes on a long time about that), I will give you a reference to one such situation about Believers in God, getting along or not. I will also tell you where this particular situation is found. But there are many references to Christian Relationships in the bible. So, it would help you to look up others for yourself to get a better understanding. And not all of the outcomes or situations were pretty, as real life would have it no other way! Take heart. There are many people that you will come upon in your life time, that God will give you a peace about leaving to themselves. As every relationship is not good for you, whatever the reason (s) may be. In any case, all the lessons on relationships in the Bible, as in our time, are not pretty, but they all have profound lessons on how and how not to treat each other. Whether we are Christian or not!

Philppians 4:2-7

(v. 2) "I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord.

(v.3) Yes, and I ask you, like yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

(v.4) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

(v.5) Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near."

(v.6) Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

(v. 7) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

FOOTNOTES

Philipians 4:2, 3

Paul did not warn the Philippian church of doctrinal errors, but he did address some relational problems. These two women, (Euodia and Syntyche) had been workers for Christ in the church. Their broken relationship was no small matter, because many had become believers through their efforts. it is possible to believe in Christ, work hard for his kingdom, and yet, have broken relationships with others who are committed to the same cause. But there is no excuse for remaining unreconciled.

Do you need to be reconciled to someone today?

If you're facing a conflict you can't resolve, don't let tension build up into an explosion.

Don't withdraw or resort to cruel power plays. Don't stand idly by and wait for the dispute to resolve itself. Instead, seek the help of those known for peacemaking.

Philippians 4:3

The identity of this "loyal yokefellow" remain a mystery. It could be Epaphroditus, the bearer of this letter (Paul wrote to the Phillipian church) or a comrade of Paul In Prison. it could also be someone named Syzygus, another way to understand the word yokefellow.

Philippians 4:3

Those "whose names are in the book of life" are all who are marked for salvation through their faith in Christ (see also Luke 10:17-20; Revelation 20:11-15)

Philippians 4:4

Ultimate joy comes from Christ dwelling within us. Christ is near, and at his second coming we we will fully realized this ultimated joy. He who lives within us will fulfill his final purposes for us.

Philippians 4:5

We are to be gentle (reasonable, fair,minded, and charitable) to those outside of the church, and not just to fellow believers. This means we are not to seek revenge against those who treat us unfairly, nor are we to be overly vocal about our personal rights.

Philippians 4:6, 7

Imagine never being "anxious about anything"! It seems like an impossibility--We all have worries on the job, in our homes, at school. But Paul's advice is to turn our worries into prayers. Do you want to worry less? Then pray more!

Whenever you start to worry, STOP and pray (in Jesus' name)!

God's peace is different from the worlds peace (John 14:27). True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings. It comes from knowing that God is in control. Our citizenship in Christ's kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin. Let God's peace guard your heart against anxiety.

Let's get RECONCILED with one another!

Deal with your issues with each other and bury them.

REJOICE! REJOICE I SAY, REJOICE IN THE LORD!

TeEN SPEAK- A LOVING FATHER, TO A SON

My "Teen Speak" column, is to give the young people voice as well as to encourage and inspire them. In this column, I write about topics that are of concern to them and are of concern about them! I hope that in these words, the young people, pre-teen, "tween", and right on up through their early 20's, hear a voice of wisdom, of love and of experience. I hope that you receive this and come to know that WE hear you! We understand. We share with you in your life's' journey. YOU are NOT alone!

THIS particular article is dedicated to my son. These words are dedicated to ALL sons! Though I am a mother, wisdom knows no bounds. It is not limited to gender. As I had no one, not even my sons Dad to rely on for regular assistance in the raising and teaching of our son, I had but one recourse. And that was to seek a higher force. This action caused me to reach for the love of God. to seek it. to embrace it. To give over and to give into it! In seeking a new way for myself, learning of my own individuual purpose, including being a "good" mother to my son inspite of circumstances and self, I had to move into a new way of thinking, move into a new way of being! The more I embraced and grew in what I found, a thirst and hunger grew for that higher which I couldn't even see!

So in reverence to that, which God is and represents.... wisdom, faith, love, preservation, protection, redemption and insight, knowledge, understanding, patience and victory is what brings me to this point in this writing. My reliance on hope in the victory of my journey with my son to raise him to be a productive, sound-minded, man of integrity is how we got here, to the 20th anniversary of his birth! Because we got here, is why I choose to share the following words of Proverbs chapter 2!

Though not in the flesh, did such a father exist for my son, my son's still making it! Because through the "spirit of God", divine inspiration, words of a loving Father still found their way to him. And these words are just as real and speak to my son's life, as if a fleshly father would have done the honor. Here, A Loving Father Speaks to a Son in wisdom, sincerity, honesty, openness, in hope and compassion. These words are to guide, direct, protect and light the sons path as he makes his way through life and emerges onto the path of completing his purpose in righteousness.

FOR MY SON who is soon turning 20 and will be experiencing a new part of life as a young mature man stepping into his own, it has compelled me to send out this message. It was not easy raising a boy as a single woman. I've done the best I can by taking comfort in the wise. Trust that wisdom sons and remember it as you step into a new dimension of life and encounter its struggles as well as its victories...but encountering them as a prepared man and not as an unknowing child!

I am preparing to send my son out covered and drenched with these words of a loving Father. My son soon will be stepping out on his own without Mother to clear the way for him. It will soon be my time to step back into the shadows just a little further as my son steps a little bit farther out from me. As he stretches his "man" wings, I call out "Fly Baby Boy, Fly"! Fly wearing the "full armor of God", believing he has a purpose filled destiny for you to meet, greet embrace, walk, run and live in! Don't Stop now!

Brad, May Gods Grace and Mercy always be with you.

Fly, filled with ever growing desire for knowledge and wisdom!

And may these words always follow you, echoing in your heart.

Be wise my son! Be wise.

* Son, my heart breathed when I saw the following passage on your computer after you went to bed. You didn't know that I saw it.

For having seen it, I have to tell you that I get it, Son! I get now why you tell me you hear me.

And I can hear YOU for the 1000sdth time even now as you sleep, saying

"Mom, I hear your lessons and they help me even when you are not around. No seriously! I can hear your voice on certain things even when you are not around! I know you love me! But God speaks to me and my heart too! I'm going to be OK, Mom! Thank you for believing." )

Proverbs 2 (New International Version)

Moral Benefits of Wisdom

¹ My son, if you accept my words
and store up my commands within you,

² turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding,

³ and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,

⁴ and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,

⁵ then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.

⁶ For the LORD gives wisdom,
and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

⁷ He holds victory in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,

⁸ for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.

⁹ Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.

¹⁰ For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

¹¹ Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you.

¹² Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
from men whose words are perverse,

¹³ who leave the straight paths
to walk in dark ways,

¹⁴ who delight in doing wrong
and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,

¹⁵ whose paths are crooked
and who are devious in their ways.

¹⁶ It will save you also from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words,

¹⁷ who has left the partner of her youth
and ignored the covenant she made before God.

¹⁸ For her house leads down to death
and her paths to the spirits of the dead.

¹⁹ None who go to her return
or attain the paths of life.

²⁰ Thus you will walk in the ways of good men
and keep to the paths of the righteous.

²¹ For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;

²² but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it.

With Love

Men, Women & Children - "HE GIVES US BOYS"

WELCOME BACK, DEAR READER!

Many of you may already know from past articles, that in this column I speak on any subject that covers individual issues of Men, Women and Children. But I also cover family issues as well. In today's Men, Women, and Children column, I want to do something special. TODAY, I AM CELEBRATING! I am celebrating SONS!

I am a single mother and I have been blessed to raise a beautiful, creative, intelligent, friendly, well spoken, healthy, Christ loving Son. My son is my only child. When he was born, I really didn't understand that it was going to be just he and I and what that all meant. I had no idea how to handle something like that and it could have turned out much more terrible than it did! We had a VERY HARD TIME trying to make it, that little baby and me! "Family" turned on us! The Dad turned out to be (unbeknownst to me beforehand) an incredible verbal and emotional abusive, self-centered person. On our journey, my son and I both, were abused by Christians and non-Christians alike, People we knew and people we didn't know! On the other hand, we were also helped by Christians and Non-Christians, People we knew and people we didn't know! God is so WONDERFUL! He touched and softened many, many hearts. He blessed with finances, shelter and protected us. Those hurts that did come, he kept me and my little boy protected enough (now almost a man) that those hurts didn't destroy us. Even with all of the mistakes I made, my son at 19, still hugs me a plenty and tells me "Thanks Mom, for loving me and working so hard to teach me. Thanks for not giving up!"

My son, is 19 now and with the blessing of Christ, he's turning 20 in November and will live a long, long prosperous and productive life, doing Gods' will. My son is not perfect in the flesh, but he could have turned out a lot worse! A whole lot worse! My son is a quiet person, that is until he gets to know you! he smiles a lot. He is a giver, a helper. He is kind. He is a bit of an introvert. He is goal oriented. He has plans for his future. Sure he has his "lazy"moments like most teenagers, but I am praying to Christ that he will outgrow that! He can also be a very big pain in the butt, but aren't most teenagers at some point? But hey! Overall, my son is also a very likable person!

Maybe just like your own child, on a regular basis, even co-workers of mine sincerely ask about him. They constantly ask how he's doing and giving him plenty of well wishes. They hope and believe Good things for my son. The most wonderful thing is when known Christian believers tell me that they are keeping my son up in prayer! One of them "RJ", actually went toe-to- toe with another guy we know, in protecting my son. This happened when on the way to my son's 18th birthday party, the one guy told RJ and two other friends that he actually wanted to "corrupt" my son, initiating him into "manhood". I don't need to tell you people what kind of corruption that man had in mind. What do small minded, un-wise, immoral people men usually do with 18 year old males on their birthday? An "innocent" 18 year male on his birthday... you figure it out!

He spoke of the plans on how he was going to do it and the word is, RJ acted as a Father figure to my son, spoke against this man's plans and "warned this man" about why he should drop his plans over my son! Before you get any ideas Dear Reader, The "good guy" RJ, and I have nothing going on. He being an inspirational, intelligent, young productive man of God, I asked him to come and "Bless my son" on this special day. My son and I were both happy and honored that he did it. RJ and I were conversating just the other day and he mentioned to me just a few days ago (almost 2 years later) that he was honored as well that I asked him! He also said a prayer over the rest of the youth at my son's party, which was like a big, clean, loud family gathering held at the church in 2008. Now that I think on this again, what my friend did for my son, is what "A LOVING FATHER WOULD DO"! Come to think of it, his "real" Dad, was invited and didn't even come! My, My, My! See, God really will give you what you need, right when HE KNOWS you need it! As it is written: "I'll be a Father to the Father-less", thus said thy Lord Thy God.

Even though this column is not one that I designated specifically as a "Christian" teaching column, I find that WISDOM, you can't escape from. And wisdom was present when the earth was formed. So follow me if you will into the "book of wisdom" as I celebrate sons.

Proverbs Chapter 6 verses 20-23.

"My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mothers teaching. Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck.

When you walk, they will guide you; When you sleep, they will watch over you;

when you awake, they will speak to you.

For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light,

and the corrections of discipline are the way to life."

Devotional

HE GIVES US BOYS

Author: Charles Swindoll

THROUGHOUT history, long before the marines, God has been looking for a few good men: "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him" (2 Chronicles 16:9a)

"I looked for a man among the whole would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap" (Ezekiel 22:30 a)

God, give us men! Give us Noah's, to whom you can trust your mighty plans;

Give us Abraham's, who are willing to leave home and homeland to follow your call;

Give us Josephs, who would rather endure prison than violate one of your commands;

Give us Moses-es, who are willing to stand as your mouthpiece against the most powerful leaders in all the world;

Give us Daniels, who would rather face a lions den than compromise their faith;

God, give us men!

However, the reality is that God does not give us men-he gives us boys. To us, as parents, he gives the task of forging these boys into men. To help equip us for that task, God has provided the book of Proverbs, which is largely the advice of a father to his son...Our children are our legacy. As a parent, are you taking that thought seriously?" Amen! I agree with you Mr. Swindoll.

If there is a son in your life, Celebrate him today!

Thanks for Reading, Ms. Meetta

MEETTA TALKS-It rains (even) in the Basement

Today is Saturday, September 18, 2010.

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to (or back) to "MEETTA TALKS." This is the column where I share life experiences, wisdom and offer encouragement based on personal experiences. One thing you should know about me, I have a story to tell, quite a few of them actually and over the years, I've been encouraged to write them down! In fact, it was even told to me that high levels of prosperity would begin to fall on me when I wrote "THEE BOOK", based on my life's experiences in the Lord. This book will also be one to bring God great Glory and honor for what Jesus has done in my life as well as the life of my son. This book is necessary because for some people, the only book they will ever read and learn from, is the "book of someone else's life. And their are SO MANY STORIES yet to be told and be encouraged by. Mine is only but one more.

As I am preparing to become a homeowner, I am living in a place where (I thought) I could better financially prepare. I temporarily live in a basement apartment, (moving out in a few weeks) and yesterday while I was out running errands, a thought was implanted in my mind... "IT RAINS (EVEN ) IN THE BASEMENT." My, my, my! If that isn't a modern day prophetic statement, I don't know what is! Just when you think you are at your lowest, something happens that even while yet in the basement, you still aren't protected form every storm that blows! ...Case in point: When I got "home" yesterday, (Sept. 17, 2010) hell was waiting to break lose. See, the Holy spirit will prepare you for stuff! Yes, he will! 'Cause he loves us just that much!! And wisdom (who the bible calls a she) will either accompany him or never be too far behind. Understanding, on the other hand (who is closer to us than a kinsman) will often take it's time, but eventually if we are open to it. Understanding will show up too (sooner or later)!

Because of what happened, (though my son and I both expected it, but were hoping God would quiet that storm) and were "hurt" at first, (disappointed really is the word), he and I still turned around, not a 1/2 hour later, went on and enjoyed the evening at the movies! See, we have enough faith and been through enough things in our lives to have a healthy LACK OF FAITH in humanity (on their own) AND A HUGE AMOUNT OF FAITH IIn The Christ, JESUS AND GOD, ABBA FATHER. I don't know about you Dear Reader, but my son and I are champions through Christ Jesus which strengthens us! (Hear the song "Champions". It's on my playlist, as #1.

This morning, after I'd awake, but still laying down, I was encouraged in myself that THIS WAS THE TIME for me to begin that book. Can't put it off anymore. The title was even given to me, which I will not divulge at this time, but it is very poignant even for what journey I am on now and some pangs from that journey as well as lessons I am now enduring. I also now know from what point in my life to start writing! That! I didn't know before. A life covers such a vast amount of time and situations. Where does one begin? "Start at the beginning" some wise cracking person would say, but for many, where is that?... is still a very real question.

It's was in 2004 where I got the first serious push of encouragement to write "thee book" describing events of my life. I had already written and published a book of encouraging poetry in 2002, "YOU CAN'T SAY THAT! ;Poetry to Strengthen, Heal and Encourage." It that was a book that helped to provide release and strengthening to others as well as to myself. I believed there were more books to come, but did not know when or what to write about! When I went to that service, I went in desperation. Where I was temporarily living, though it was a "Christian household" I felt no real peace to pray and worship freely freely, so I prayed quietly not to offend. I wanted to "cry out" to the Lord as I was in pain because of situations, nevertheless, I prayed! I have since come to understand that though many proclaim Christ, they walk in it in different ways! Being a Christian means different things to different people.

ALL Christians SHOULD BE, but many current Christians are already prayer warriors. They understand and prepare for spiritual battle and so their prayers reflect that. Lest you forget, their is a still a battle of 'Good and Evil' going on in the world. Prayer Warriors don't "PRAY PRETTY". Because they understand the attack of the enemy is serious. He, the enemy, has been around for centuries "walking to and fro about he earth, seeking whom he may devour" . He has caused major calamities in peoples lives and is very real!. Prayer warriors get to the heart of the matter with the word of God which is also the sword of the spirit and attack and provide defense against the spirit of the enemy. I fall in this category. I don't pray pretty. Their are times as a believer in Christ when you just have to open your mouth loudly and proclaim Golds victory whether it's on the behalf of ourselves and others.

Prayer warriors prayer are fervent and aggressive. You can't cause damage in the kingdom of darkness praying 'pretty' or with 'pretty' faith. You've got to know what YOU KNOW IN THE LORD and be willing to stand on it, act upon it!

Anyway, I went to this service believing and hoping to when I was going through great hardships and including homelessness, and was so dependent on people, but held on to greater dependency on the Lord. It was was at a "Worship and Prayer" service a friend took me too at the time ( I am a Christ follower, you must understand that first) as I desperately needed a place to fellowship and praise openly with other believers and those that were seeking. There is no company I want better to keep outside of "True Believers" other than sitting and dwelling in the presence of God.

I went there and ended up meeting someone , a mighty woman of God, Ms. Deniece, A Prophet in the Lord thy God, by way of New York. She had spoken things to me, that there is NO WAY, she could have known! It was a small group of people there, most of which I had never seen. I had not told my problems to anyone who worked there or even those of them who knew me, except my dear friend at the time who took me to the service. She said, "(Meetta) I believe the Lord has a word for you there (at this particular service)." Granted, The Spirit of God ...Holy spirit can speak to you ANYWHERE , ANYTIME, but it is in PRAISE AND WORSHIP where the Holy Spirit dwells. And with so many of us there collectively praising and worshipping honoring words, him with song and open hearts he had no recourse but to show up!

It was near the end of the night, and AFTER THE FACT, after many others had been specially spoken to, that I had settled into the mode of pure thankfulness. I remember saying, " Well Lord, if I don't hear a word (a special word tonight in this place) that's fine. It's OK! ...Just Thank you for Loving me, keeping me and my son. Thank you for this outlet tonight where I can really praise you! Thank you for the freedom of this place in which in to do it. Thank you for saving me Jesus. If you never speak another word to me or about me, YOU have already done too much."

Guess what Dear Reader? After another long while, that prophet came right to the front on the side of where I was sitting. She looked right in my direction. My eyes opened so wide, my spirit was SO open as she began to wave and smile. Her countenance changed. The room grew quiet. She continued to look at me. As she started waving, tears began to swell in my eyes. "With a wave and a smile...Hello! How are you doing?...They think you're crazy. but with a wave and a smile, even stopping to wait for a response they don't know you really are sincere! GOD KNOWS THE HEART THAT HE GAVE YOU and is pleased with it."

By the time she had waved, smiled and began her first sentence to me, I had already been brought to tears, Because I KNEW THAT WAS FROM THE LORD THY GOD. MY HEART WAS SO FILLED WITH JOY AND THANKSGIVING that my eyes were so flooded with tears that I couldn't see! Ms. Deniece, wanted me to stay focused, but shoot I was just so glad that God was mindful of me, that he didn't have to give her anything else to say to me! I am glad I listened to the rest though. She went on to speak of my current situation at that time, including facts about my struggle through it! She also spoke of outcome of it even leading to those experiences in which God would glorify himself in me and my son's life. He just needed me to keep believing, keep praying, keep hoping and stay focused on him even while I was in the basement of those troubles! He wanted me to use the gift of writing that he had given me. The gift he knew I had started giving up on!

I watched that Prophetess' face and listened to her voice carefully. She was not speaking out of herself. So I took to heart, what she had to say. It's been years since, but at least twice, since the short time I have lived in this basement apartment, I have been reminded of that book. "THEE BOOK" OF MINE THAT GOD IS WAITING TO GUIDE AND ANOINT. No more waiting.

Dear Reader,

Thanks for reading with me again.

May you keep God close, especially when it "rains in the basement" of your own tough situations.

BUT Remember, IF YOU are IN The Basement because GOD ALLOWED YOU TO BE THERE, then he also promises to "LIFT YOU UP" out of there, however HE allows that to happen! And the circumstances that bring you out of that basement, may not be pleasing to you, but what satan meant for bad, God will turn it for YOUR good!

BELEIVE!!!

B.I.B.L.E.-Salvation is important TO GOD, Pt.1

HELLO READERS!

This column is bible study on-line. If you are already a believer in God, this will only strengthen you . If you are seeking or have questions about particular things in Christ, this will be enlightening to you as well. Please note, the no one else is more responsible for your spiritual walk above you, yourself! So, search the scriptures and seek God for yourself! Don't just settle for someone else SPOON-FEEDING you!

I also recommend that if you are not already, that you seek solace in a "BIBLE- BASED CHURCH and seek a BIBLE STUDY GROUP, to help you grow in spiritual knowledge. AND NO! All church organizations do not teach directly from the 'HOLY BIBLE, King James version. AND NO! ALL Church organizations DO NOT teach the same thing!

So, BE CAREFUL! Here is a clue that you may be in the wrong place.

(If the Pastor or leaders of the church are preaching and they NEVER or RARELYOPEN THE BIBLE to show you where they are teaching from, that is a hint that they may be teaching something else that what they proclaim. That means that you may not be in a bible-based church. And that could mean that yo are being taught another doctrine without your knowledge. It is unfortunate, but some proclaimed "teachers of the word" have THEIR OWN AGENDA.

SALVATION...

Is a very, VERY, pertinent subject, considering the lives we live, considering the purpose of mankind. YES! We all have a purpose for being the ones that got to be born AND LIVE a life.

Think about how many babies didn't get to be born, babies whose lives started and were cut short EVEN WHILE IN THE WOMB! Whether through the killing of the fetus through abortion, death of the mother through some un-timely death or perhaps the fetus (baby) was stillborn. Either way, think about how FORTUNATE that YOU ARE to have been born and that you are ALIVE!

I told you Dear Reader, (if you've been following this column for the last few weeks), that Salvation is needed in your spiritual walk with God! Salvation is needed to show a true, higher faith in God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. Salvation is needed to solidify your relationship to Christ. It is needed to protect your soul from chaos in the after-life. By the way, as I've mentioned faith in Christ. For all of you who may believe in God but not his son, the bible tells us that "you can't believe in the one and not in the other'. "That you CANNOT GET TO GOD, BUT BY JESUS. God sent his son, (God's self in the flesh) to understand man more deeply, to walk with man, in his shoes, to bring man closer to himself. God sent Jesus as the Saviour to the world. Saviour, one who saves.

We ALL NEED SAVING FROM SOMETHING!

Jesus came to save our souls from a damning hell. He came, that we may have life and life more abundantly even while we yet live!

SALVATION....

IS IMPORTANT TO GOD. SO, SHOULDN'T IT BE IMPORTANT TO YOU?

I mean, if you proclaim to believe and LOVE God!

In today's discussion, we will explore these thoughts more deeply.

We are going to continue to explore salvation in the book of JOHN chapter 3.

*Oh! Reader, I always tell you what Bible version I use so you'll know where I'm coming from.

I also use a King James version as well, but there are many translations of the bible.

For these verses, I am using a...

Life Application Study Bible, N.I.V

(New International Version)

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.-Wheaton, Ilinois

& Zondervan Publishing House-Grand Rapids, Michigan

Let's being our verse study!

JOHN 3; 16-21

*Please Note that when it comes to Bible verses, if it is written in red, that supposedly meant that Jesus was noted as saying this.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world, through him. 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. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. 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."

I will follow up with footnotes later in Part 2.

Get Knowledge people!

But in all your getting, get an understanding.

MEETTA TALKS!-December 29th

December 29th, 2009....

May be just another day to YOU, but to me...

It is a very special day indeed. You see Reader, today commemorates when God blessed my mother to give birth to this very talented, creative, friendly, lovable, person that I happen to know very well.

You know this person too, because ...IT'S ME!

HA, HA, HA!

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY! GO, OH YEAH! IT'S MY BIRTHDAY, OH YEAH!

Aw man! Reader, I woke up this morning and decided that I was going to have a good attitude about today. I'm not going to concentrate on what I DIDN'T accomplish, the mistakes I've made, nor the bad celebrations of birthdays past. I decided instead to focus on the good of my life, the fact that I've made it through so many harsh times. I may have come out bruised, but stronger and wiser also.

I know and publicly declare that I was BLESSED (GRACED BY GOD), to have made it this far! So that is worth celebrating and recognizing on this day. That is worth choosing a right attitude about! It is good that I give recognition to God and my parents, because your birthday is not just about YOU! Birthdays are also about THE WHO, you, came from! If it wasn't for them, YOU wouldn't be here! As I believe, God the Father is the creator of Heaven and earth and also all that is in it! Parents only have the power to PRO-create. They are actually reproducing something that has already been established. The CREATOR made something out of something that never was! Not only that! I chose to recognize and believe in God as my spiritual Father and guidance, as a "saved" Christian. So, without God, my Mom and Dad, I wouldn't be!

My attitude could have been much worse! My mind could have been clouded over with all kinds of miserable regrets. There is many! See, I turn 42 today, although I'm not sure at the time I was born, but hey, that's OK,! I'll just celebrate THE WHOLE DAY! Still, in 42 years, I've experienced a lot! Just like many of you! But,

I choose not to think on those things, especially today!

Let me see! On my special day, I don't have any special plans. The people I'm close to is a very small group and practically all of them are hurting financially, so I am not pressuring anyone to do anything special. No! I don't feel like throwing myself a party. Being the strong woman that I am, I have done that in the past a few times and It still is much more special when someone ELSE arranges things! Something special did happen already though... I woke up this morning, in my right mind and in good health! So did my son! My household is "blessed". As my dear friend told me this morning on the phone, that is something that she prays regularly, for my household. Also, I did got serenaded by my son this morning! That makes me smile even now.

My son came down early this morning and checked on me to see if I was awake.

He went to get ready for work, then he came back later, as I was talking on the phone to one of my dearest friends (who was also wanting me to have...

a Happy B-Day) and my son started singing "I Love my mom! She's a nice lady.

It's her birthday"...added to Stevie Wonders version of 'Happy Birthday'. My son was all smiles, as he busted some really slick dance moves across the kitchen floor! He sang all the way back up the stairs and practically out of the door.

It WAS GREAT!!!

So far I'm having a pretty special birthday, indeed!

Reader, I told you December 29th is a very, SPECIAL DAY!

Bye, Meetta

MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN-Christmas

Good Morning.

It's CHRISTMAS!

WHAT ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT?

Yeah! I'm up early. It's close to 5 am and my apartment is quiet because my son is asleep and the neighbors still seem to be too! No little kids screaming and running around excited about the presents they got... Yet!

I'm up with this huge thought on my mind. What thoughts do I have on this special day, at this special time. For Catholics, Christians, etc. the focus is on Christs birth and the gift that he IS!

For others, it is about the season. There is vacation time to relax, visit family and friends, get involved in other leisurely activities and eat well! Still for others, the focus is loneliness, sadness, loss, what they can't afford, how the coming new year will find them! Yada, Yada!

I got up this morning with Christmas on my mind, but how this Christmas was going to be! Yes! My focus was also on the Christ. That is what got me up out of the bed early this morning. I am thankful for so many things, that I cannot tell you. (Some things you've got to keep private!) I will tell you this though, unlike many others, my son and I are in a nice, warm furnished apartment that is beautifully decorated for the holidays. We have plenty to eat, clothes to wear and ...we have each other! THAT IS MUCH to be thankful for!

As I did have thoughts about today, past Christmases, and Christ...the need for focus came up.

I got right to the computer and decided to face my thoughts and write them out! Putting them in their proper place if you will. figure that If I got them out, these thoughts wont' hinder the rest of my day. It is even quite possible that they won't continue to hinder the rest of my life! So, here goes! See, Reader, the holiday seasons have proven to be very hard for ME to deal with for several vital reasons. One of which, I have already disclosed in other articles...I don't have that big close family to take comfort in. My son's Dad's family is not reachable even to my son! So, my son does not have that either, which has lead to other problems that have created NOT-SO-MERRY holidays for the both of us!

Without much support, my son and I struggled in different ways for years! Because of this, when he was small and the Dad and I were at odds, there was not much that I could give my son. I could not even give him his Dad! There were arguments between the Dad and I about whether he should come and pick him up or I should take him over there! See, I learned my lesson about going over to the Dads years before! Between our problems, calling myself trying to keep my son connected to his dad's side of the family, I often took my son to the Dads family's home (his mother's house) and even to his house off and on for years, up until my son was almost 5.

I got my feelings hurt A LOT!

The Dad would often be on the phone with other women, in front of me. When he was on the phone, sometimes his family, (I can remember his mother, God rest her soul) and friends would be yelling at him to get off the telephone and to at least respect me while I was there!Sometimes he was on his way to meet them or already had left! Some other times, I would just be ignore. A few times he would be talking to his family and saying mean things and I was made to feel like crap. He proved to be a very, very hurtful person. Those visits were for my son and his family, but no one should have to hurt like that! I honestly thought I was doing the right thing by taking him over there! Anyway, after plenty of that... I finally and quietly promised myself and vowed NEVER TO ALLOW MYSELF TO BE DISGRACED LIKE THAT AGAIN BY HIM OR ANY MAN!

I just stopped taking my son to any of their houses! That was that! If the Dad wanted to see him, he had to come to us! He hated that, but he never understood what all of that did to me! I honestly don't even think he thought about it! This, is the stuff that started to creep into our lives over the years, even for the holidays! But those early experiences with the Dad was my education. I have never had to endure that kind of treatment from any man I've ever been with in all my life! Though it made me tougher, that kind of living...It was not for me!

I love my son and have worked tirelessly as a single Mom to raise him properly, in Christ with morals, integrity, and with manners and instilling the importance goals and going after them.

I have poured into him, a great deal of time and of my life, postponed hopes and dreams of my own! But, there is a limit! What good am I to my son, myself or anyone for that matter, broken and disgraced by any man, ESPECIALLY the man who was supposed to have loved me and is his Dad! This is the same man who who was supposed to teach our my son how to be

A MAN, "A REAL man"! What is that teaching my son in the treatment of women and what a woman should tolerate and accept for herself? So, even after the Dad and I permanently were broken up, I still kept that vow to myself! I wouldn't break it, NOT EVEN FOR MY SON!

Not even for my son, would I put myself in a situation like that again!

As I was not welcomed or respected by the Dad, obviously, I certainly could not expect to be respected by his mate! Just like those other women in his life, back in the day. For the Dad, it was about control. "Do this my way or it won't get done!" He used to say to me, "YOU should, be bringing him to me." "I DON'T HAVE TO RESPECT YOU because we are not together!""SHE SAID...THAT YOU...!" (Read my article in my "FOR WOMEN ONLY!" column, "The SHE SAID'S AMONG US", posted on November 28, 2009.) Needless to say that, I am also a strong willed person, and I deserved and still deserve better treatment, so I made up in my mind that I wasn't walking into that line of fire AGAIN!... NOT EVEN FOR MY SON! So, I never took my son over there anymore, while he was growing up ...not even for the holidays and the Dad NEVER came and picked him up! My son and his Dad, only spent two or three Christmas's together in all of my sons 19 years!

I remember Christmas's when my son and I both hoped so strongly that the Dad would call or come by. It usually never happened! Several years in a row, as our son was growing up, he would sit by the phone and wait. Sometimes, he'd even have his coat on and when I would ask him, " What are you doing? Where are you going? All of ten years old, my son would say "I want to be ready when my dad comes for me." OHHHHH Boy!!! It got so bad that I would have to either threaten my son with punishment to get him away from the phone. This happened even his birthdays! Of course, he'd wait for the Dad to call, hoping he'd say that he's coming to pick our son up to take him over there to be with his brothers, his little sister, Aunts, Uncles and cousins. He thought SURELY, the Dad would come to hug him and bring him presents! The Dad never came. Christmas after Christmas, my son or myself would have to do all of the calling to him! More often than not, the arguments would start or some mean thing said. Sometimes, my son and I, would hear the Dads mate in the background telling the Dad how it should be done, with Brad coming to visit. Then, there you go! Usually, the call ended with someone hanging up on the other.

I tried to tell The Dad in detail what was happening, but he would say, "I have my family. That's (Brad, and whatever he's going through) your business, you have to deal with that!" The Dad wouldn't call, time after time! He still doesn't call our son on Birthdays either, let alone Christmas, even after all of this time! No. My son doesn't wait for any such phone calls. It doesn't help that my son is a giver and his Dad's birthday is just before Christmas on December 23 rd. My son got very sad about his Dad on that day, even on this year!

Where this should cause me to pray, it in fact, (as I am confessing) makes me want to curse! It will do no good to curse, but you know...hmm.

NOPE! Not cursing, peace just entered in AND came over me instead!

Still, it is a good thing to get this all out though. And I promise reader, before I'm through with this article, my thoughts will be where they should be THIS Christmas!

Just trying to explain why the holidays were so hard for me to deal with and why it is SO VITALLY IMPORTANT THAT WE GET OUR FOCUS BACK! GOD is good! The love of Christ has allowed for new mercies, and forgiveness to be possible, every single day! You may say, then "Meetta, stop dwelling on the past", but it's hard when the past is staring you in your face. I look at my son, the phone doesn't ring, specific guests don't come for him on the holidays or special days from the side of the family he desperately wants to be a part of...and it starts all over again! But you know, the pangs of it are not so strong anymore. So, progress is being made! Some things just take longer than others. A gun shot wound will heal faster than a broken heart! Doesn't matter whose heart it is! It's hard for a boy to not have a Dad! Especially when the Dad is nearby and has always been. The Dad has lived in this city all of our son's life, NEVER LIVING more than 20 minutes away, driving, but you wouldn't know it! (Deep breath and a sigh)...Along with my son's angst about the holidays, was my own! You might be interested in knowing Reader, that the peace I previously spoke of...still remains AND ...I'm learning right at this moment, that when I see the past staring intently at me.... to look the other way. At least until I feel COMPLETELY comfortable staring right back at it, unaffected!

So as you can see now, Dear Reader, why Christmas in the past was such a struggle! As a Christian, especially with all of that going on, I struggled to maintain my focus and put it where it should be...On Christ...fully and completely! Because without him, nothing is possible. ...Survival, growth, forgiveness, maturity, peace of mind and of heart, healing! Nothing would be possible! Without Christ, God would not have granted human kind, the many second chances that he has! Jesus, The Christ is the world's Saviour, as I believe it! Without him, and "the word of God", (Scripture of the Holy Bible), I couldn't have made it out of the darkness of my sadness, frustration, loneliness, confusion and pain. Could not have made it through any crisis of ANY KIND WITHOUT THE LOVE and intercession of Christ! Would not have the victories that I have been blessed to have. Without him, The Christ, my life and my sons life would have fallen into peril a loooong, long time ago! BUT GOD....

THOUGH WE KNOW NOT THE EXACT DATE....Will you all join me in saying ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!

AND THANK YOU !

LOVE, FROM US ALL