Moving forward was the Presidents slogan for his campaign this year. But before the President made it popular, we've all been trying to do that since the beginning of time. Slavery, Racism, Inequality, Abuse, Failure, Disability, etc. Moving forward isn't always as easy as it seems. We can hype ourselves up about doing it, be good one day and then something triggers up that day, that time, those feelings from the past and we are right back campaigning in sorrow and defeat.
Time ... does ... heal ... all ... wounds. It may take years, it may even be accompanied by some form of therapy but you will get to a point will you no longer want to wallow in that "stuff". We may never forget the hurt of the past BUT GLORY, if you look for GOD, HE will find you. HE will remove it. Just ask and HIS promises will be delivered.
It is an awesome splendor to have been somewhere so dark, cruddy and lonely and then you finally see progress...hope!! A weight has been lifted, your heart has is awake and your life is shifting, your goals are aligning and all you see is how GOD has moved in your life. Where you were and how far you've come. You'll sit back and think, "I can't believe I even let that bother me!"
In the midst of tragedy, of hurt, of death, of failure, of distress and fear. HE is good. He is merciful and Almighty. *insert praise dance here* ;)
I pray that we all find comfort in the Lord through whatever we've been through, are going through and will go through. Life doesn't stop until the "end" ... until then we must live in knowing that there is so much more than living in the past.
I pray that we all find healing, strength, courage, humor, love, peace, happiness and forgiveness.
Have a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year ... moving forward.
Thanks to everyone who has subscribed to or follows my blog. Your support has been amazing. And if I am able to help any one of you that read it, then I've done a good work. I look forward to connecting with you in the New Year!!
Until then ... GOD BLESS YOU and YOUR FAMILIES.
P.S. TREAT YOURSELF, YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR FAMILY, STRANGERS ... BETTER. IT COUNTS IN SUCH A BIG WAY.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Too Much Advice?
This may be a continuous pain in the butt throughout your life. Whether it hits you personally or to someone you know. Dealing with people who have no respect for you, who are unhappy about the things happening for you and will do everything in their power to make sure your life is as uncomfortable, sad and negative as their own. These are wealthy people, beautiful people, people who may have some really good things happening in their lives but all the good that is happening for you is the bane of their existence.
This is a person who has even helped you in a time of need, let you cry on their shoulder, maybe even helped you out financially. But even with all they have done for you, and lets just add you've done some really awesome, from the heart, because you love this person things for them as well, does not constitute them treating you like crap. NOTE: This is abuse.
Of course throughout the years you grow to the love this person but while you are steady growing they are steady on some other sh*t! Excuse my language. But it really is more effective. What do you do? When do you say enough is enough. When do you say, hey I love you, but I love me more and this just ain't working out.
A friend of mine called me last night about a friendship that has been offering her nothing but disappointment on a sliver platter. So me being a seasoned veteran in this area...LOL... no but its really not funny, I was there to hear her out and try to give her some sound advice.
While offering my advice, and this happens often, I revert back to a situation that happened to me. In doing this, am I re-living the situation? Am I still hurt about it? Must I always use those situations as examples to get my point across? I mean I've managed to keep my head above the crap and have been able to move passed it ... I think?
Well what I will work on is focusing on what it is the other person needs and not what I think I need to promote for them to understand why they should ultimately, make the decision that is best for them. Now suppose they ask you what happened? Well, really all they need to know is that hey, that person did some things that were not cool, very unfriendly and I had tomake the clear decision to start a new chapter ... without them. You will always remember what they did, and it may take some time to let that part go of deciding to forgive them, but over time, it will become less of a detailed chapter in your life.
Until Next Time ... Remember not everybody deserves the luxury of your friendship.
This is a person who has even helped you in a time of need, let you cry on their shoulder, maybe even helped you out financially. But even with all they have done for you, and lets just add you've done some really awesome, from the heart, because you love this person things for them as well, does not constitute them treating you like crap. NOTE: This is abuse.
Of course throughout the years you grow to the love this person but while you are steady growing they are steady on some other sh*t! Excuse my language. But it really is more effective. What do you do? When do you say enough is enough. When do you say, hey I love you, but I love me more and this just ain't working out.
A friend of mine called me last night about a friendship that has been offering her nothing but disappointment on a sliver platter. So me being a seasoned veteran in this area...LOL... no but its really not funny, I was there to hear her out and try to give her some sound advice.
While offering my advice, and this happens often, I revert back to a situation that happened to me. In doing this, am I re-living the situation? Am I still hurt about it? Must I always use those situations as examples to get my point across? I mean I've managed to keep my head above the crap and have been able to move passed it ... I think?
Whatever it is, after I've finished the conversation, I always feel like now why did I bring that back up? Like, was it necessary? My advice should be based on how I rose above it right? Maybe in all my advice giving, I never really figured out after you decide to move past the relationship, how do you move past what the person did? Is that even possible? You may forgive but you never forget. Maybe I'm over-reacting. Maybe its just an honest effort to help the person understand why I had to make the decision to not be friends with this person any longer. People do some F'd up stuff man! NO I'M NOT PERFECT. But some stuff you should never do. I'm just saying. I digress.
Maybe talking about it is a part of my healing process. I don't know. But it'd sure be awesome to be able to just zap all the bull crap that ever happened to you from your memory right? But then how would we be able to help others? Everyday all of us are going through situations to strengthen us, to help us grow and to help someone else. But does it mean they have to know every detail about how you got there? Geesh, I got 99 questions and a answer for none. LOL.
Well what I will work on is focusing on what it is the other person needs and not what I think I need to promote for them to understand why they should ultimately, make the decision that is best for them. Now suppose they ask you what happened? Well, really all they need to know is that hey, that person did some things that were not cool, very unfriendly and I had tomake the clear decision to start a new chapter ... without them. You will always remember what they did, and it may take some time to let that part go of deciding to forgive them, but over time, it will become less of a detailed chapter in your life.
Until Next Time ... Remember not everybody deserves the luxury of your friendship.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
What a Week!
The last five days have been a roller coaster of emotions. After a long lull, GOD blessed me with a big booking. It shot in Raleigh, North Carolina with an amazing cast and crew. The Friday before I was to leave for Raleigh I learned a friend lost her baby. I was in such shock. She just had a baby shower and I even got a chance to rub her belly. And in one instance ... the baby is lifeless. Not even a chance to enter this world and grow up to be a toddler, a kid, a teen, an adult. A baby not to be nurtured by his mother but by the Father. One could think it may be a better place to be instead of in this cruel corrupt world. To grow up in the Kingdom can only be a special privilege, right? To never have sinned, to have your heart broken or experience a loved one's death. I can't imagine what she must be feeling.
Then this past Saturday, I lost my grandmother who was 82 but had been ill for sometime. She suffered from a neurological disease that caused her body to shut down. She was bed ridden for years and for the last year she was being fed through a feeding tube. Over the years, I watched how her body deteriorated but amazingly how her mind was still sharp. Although she was immobile and could hardly speak, at least clearly, when I would come to visit her, she always greeted me with a big smile.
I saw her a week before she passed and I got to see that big ole smile one more time. Through her thick full head of salt and pepper gray hair that stayed in a pony tail and her flawless skin, I saw that she was tired. Something definitely felt different this visit. Something in her eyes and her breathing was accompanied by a groan. Like she was fighting to breath. Maybe I sensed the end was near. Saturday, October 24th, 2012 she went home.
I am at peace with her death. For some reason it seems easier to mourn the elderly. I mean 82 years is a long time to be here on earth. We can only hope that we make it as far and in good health. But I feel joy and relief because she is no longer suffering. She no longer has to lay in that bed with her feet and toes bent in different directions, with her neck slumping over or bed sores consuming her body. No more being fed some beige liquid through a tube and being washed from a pan. She's got her wings and a brand new body ... eternal life.
On Monday, October 26, 2012 Hurricane Sandy ripped through the Northeast like a Tasmania devil. Ruining hundreds of homes, costing many lives and leaving a lot with no power. Sandy pretty much shut two states down. It's three days later and some still have no electricity, including me. The client flew us all out on Sunday morning so that we could beat the storm. So I was not at my home in Jersey to experience the storm or the aftermath and because of my grandmothers passing I was flying to Maryland which hadn't experienced the same amount of destruction as New Jersey and New York.
People have lost homes, loved ones, and memories. No one imagined that Sandy would be this devastating.
I woke up this morning, Thursday, November 1, to head to the airport to go home to Maryland and I learned my dear friend lost her fight to breast cancer. I ... cannot ... believe ... this ... I only knew my friend for maybe a year or so but she touched my life greatly. I knew that she was battling cancer but with her vigor for life, her positive attitude, her beautiful smile, her confidence and strength ... she was incredible ... you would have never known this illness was eating her up inside. I loved this girl.
As I write this, I just continue to shake my head because I just can't wrap my head around it. She left behind two children. This was just so unexpected ... for me anyways. For a lot of us, really. She just celebrated her 37th birthday. Maybe she didn't want us to worry or be wrapped up in her fight.
But we were just getting started. We had accumulated so many memories already. We spent the holidays together. We brought in 2012 together. Who would have thought two months shy of another new year, she would be gone.
Death is so final ... on this side anyways. I will miss the fact that I won't meet my friends first baby. I will miss my grandmother. I will miss my friend. But by God's grace, I will see them again. Yes, it hurts that I can't just pick up the phone and call my friend or get in my car and go visit my grandmother, but they are no longer suffering. No one wants to live in physical pain. The pain we feel is intense right now, and we will still hurt, but it does it get better. My grandmother and Rina were not going to be healed on this side so they had to move on. I have to be at peace with that.
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. - 2 Corinthians 5:8
For those who are going through trying times right now because of the storm, be thankful that you still have your life. You can get new homes, new clothes, new material things ... replacements. You can even make new memories. It may take some time, it may even seem impossible, BUT GOD, you will get there, you will get through.
Until Next Time ... Cherish your family, your friends, your experiences ... because in the blink of an eye they can be taken away from us and then all we have to cherish is our memories ... Make them great! Make them count! I pray for peace, for recovery and healing for us all.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
An Invitation With Purpose
Earlier this year I was invited to speak on the Beauty Panel at a conference for women entrepreneurs. Never did I imagine the wealth of information I would receive or the fire it would light in my soul. At first, I figured I'd just attend the day I was scheduled to appear. But, the invitation was extended for me to attend the entire three day conference, which I might say, kind of changed my life. My way of thinking, at least.
Being in a business of uncertainty and so many up and downs, its important to create other streams of income. As I grow wiser, I understand its not just to create income but to help others in the process. Four years ago, I created a name for a business I wanted to start. Looking back now, my vision wasn't really clear. But over those three days, it became crystal! After a few appointments over the years, I finally got my niche! After a hundred names for my business, I finally have the perfect one. I have a clearer vision, a clearer understanding and purpose for what I want to do and how I want to do it.
It's amazing when you get focused and in tune with your creative self, without a lot of distractions, how much more creative you can be. I absolutely cannot wait to share my business with others and gain purpose in helping others pursue their dreams, passions or even just their hobbies.
I am so proud of me for not limiting myself to being just a panel expert and making the decision to invest in myself so that I can grow my business as an expert in my field, helping others gain the knowledge they need to be courageous and successful, really, in anything they do.
UNTIL NEXT TIME ... Don't limit your possibilities by holding onto your gifts. They are are meant to be shared. #passiton
Being in a business of uncertainty and so many up and downs, its important to create other streams of income. As I grow wiser, I understand its not just to create income but to help others in the process. Four years ago, I created a name for a business I wanted to start. Looking back now, my vision wasn't really clear. But over those three days, it became crystal! After a few appointments over the years, I finally got my niche! After a hundred names for my business, I finally have the perfect one. I have a clearer vision, a clearer understanding and purpose for what I want to do and how I want to do it.
It's amazing when you get focused and in tune with your creative self, without a lot of distractions, how much more creative you can be. I absolutely cannot wait to share my business with others and gain purpose in helping others pursue their dreams, passions or even just their hobbies.
I am so proud of me for not limiting myself to being just a panel expert and making the decision to invest in myself so that I can grow my business as an expert in my field, helping others gain the knowledge they need to be courageous and successful, really, in anything they do.
UNTIL NEXT TIME ... Don't limit your possibilities by holding onto your gifts. They are are meant to be shared. #passiton
Friday, June 22, 2012
GOD's Armor
The last few months have been a little hard to swallow. I've been auditioning quite frequently ... every week, just about everyday, sometimes 2 or 3 auditions in one day. I've been called back or on hold for most of those auditions and I ain't booked not a one. (insert twisted face here)
What happened to my fire? Well it appears it has fizzled...(just for now)... But when its fizzling more than smoking, I figure out quickly what the issue is. LACK OF COMMUNICATION AND PRAYER WITH GOD. HE always knows how to reel me back in. And I'm not just talking about a little prayer on the side of the bed. I'm talking about going in the closet, in the darkness and seeking intercession.
The LORD giveth ... and the LORD taketh away... so don't get too cute strolling down your runway of success that you forget to recognize (on a daily basis) the ONE responsible for ALLOWING you to have opportunities you never fully imagined. Sure, our lives are already mapped out. Predestined. But um, if you know the GOD I know, HE can very well change your course.
Trust me, I've been through enough challenging experiences to know that HE will never leave me nor forsake me. It doesn't mean the enemy isn't constantly on his job trying to fill my head with negative feelings. He wants me to wear discouragement, self-pity and sadness. Which is why its important we learn the word so that we can pray scripture when he's trying to attack.
I subscribe to a few bible study and inspirational sites to help me with staying the course. But even they can get backed up and placed in a folder to read later. One things for sure, I ain't busy working right now so I got plenty of time to be in the word. BINGO! See how GOD works. Sometimes you gotta just laugh ... because we know better. We know HE loves us so all we can say is "I know I know" and get to work.
One of the christian communities/sites I subscribe to had a series called Dressed for Success. It started out with the obvious, entering the workforce, interviewing and the sort. But furthermore, it stated something so obvious to most Christians, but still very powerful in its teaching that touched me that I realized it was time to blog. Yeah I know ... its been a minute. ; )
It said, "if we step into the arena of life dressed in our own human power and abilities we will surely fail, but if we are dressed in the power and armor of GOD, we will experience SUCCESS." AMEN to that!!! Ain't nothing but the T.R.U.T.H, TRUTH. So why wouldn't I, You or Anybody Else not stay grounded in the word? Why wouldn't we set time aside to have a lil chat with HIM? It can only help us be amazingly successful in EVERYTHING we do.
Until Next Time ... No matter how good we look going in for an interview or an audition or how much we think we have it in the bag, GOD has the final say. No matter how many successes we've had or amazing opportunities have opened us for us, nothing else can equip us more, take us to our fullest potential then seeking and staying in the word of GOD. What are you waiting for?
What happened to my fire? Well it appears it has fizzled...(just for now)... But when its fizzling more than smoking, I figure out quickly what the issue is. LACK OF COMMUNICATION AND PRAYER WITH GOD. HE always knows how to reel me back in. And I'm not just talking about a little prayer on the side of the bed. I'm talking about going in the closet, in the darkness and seeking intercession.
The LORD giveth ... and the LORD taketh away... so don't get too cute strolling down your runway of success that you forget to recognize (on a daily basis) the ONE responsible for ALLOWING you to have opportunities you never fully imagined. Sure, our lives are already mapped out. Predestined. But um, if you know the GOD I know, HE can very well change your course.
Trust me, I've been through enough challenging experiences to know that HE will never leave me nor forsake me. It doesn't mean the enemy isn't constantly on his job trying to fill my head with negative feelings. He wants me to wear discouragement, self-pity and sadness. Which is why its important we learn the word so that we can pray scripture when he's trying to attack.
I subscribe to a few bible study and inspirational sites to help me with staying the course. But even they can get backed up and placed in a folder to read later. One things for sure, I ain't busy working right now so I got plenty of time to be in the word. BINGO! See how GOD works. Sometimes you gotta just laugh ... because we know better. We know HE loves us so all we can say is "I know I know" and get to work.
One of the christian communities/sites I subscribe to had a series called Dressed for Success. It started out with the obvious, entering the workforce, interviewing and the sort. But furthermore, it stated something so obvious to most Christians, but still very powerful in its teaching that touched me that I realized it was time to blog. Yeah I know ... its been a minute. ; )
It said, "if we step into the arena of life dressed in our own human power and abilities we will surely fail, but if we are dressed in the power and armor of GOD, we will experience SUCCESS." AMEN to that!!! Ain't nothing but the T.R.U.T.H, TRUTH. So why wouldn't I, You or Anybody Else not stay grounded in the word? Why wouldn't we set time aside to have a lil chat with HIM? It can only help us be amazingly successful in EVERYTHING we do.
Until Next Time ... No matter how good we look going in for an interview or an audition or how much we think we have it in the bag, GOD has the final say. No matter how many successes we've had or amazing opportunities have opened us for us, nothing else can equip us more, take us to our fullest potential then seeking and staying in the word of GOD. What are you waiting for?
Monday, April 23, 2012
Stroll Models
We hugged each other, rooted for each other, took pictures with each other, and uplifted one another. We took our time and soaked up the sun. We walked over 7000 steps, 3 miles to be exact! Cheerleaders greeted us at the finish line and then got in a few line dances.
Can you imagine after walking 3 miles, we had the energy to dance!!? Our feet had the audacity to keep moving? LOL. But some people affected with MS can't move. We danced to give them hope. Inspiration. Even if it inspired them to lift a hand, snap a finger, tap their foot or simply smile. We were dancing in their honor, for our accomplishments, and the victories won.
Next year we plan to start raising money early and hopefully rounding up more team members so we can really make a big impact not just in dollars but in numbers as well. To Angela, Tony, Kai, Sabrina and so many others suffering with MS ... we love you and will do all we can to make sure treatment is available, treatment advances and one day, we find a cure.
Until Next Time ... Encourage! Donate! Support! ... Something!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Ms. Under Estimate
As tired as I am, and with all I have coming up in the next few days, I just had to get in a quick entry. Just three weeks ago, I starting raising money in honor of my friends and others affected by Multiple Sclerosis. I started out with low expectations. I felt because I only started 3 weeks before the walk that I couldn't possible raise more than a few hundred dollars.
But as I saw the out pour of support from friends and family my expectations grew. Five hundred dollars was my personal goal and as I surpassed that, I increased my goal. I raised it to $650. Then I surpassed that. I raised it to $850. Then I surpassed that. So I got it in my mind that I was just gonna go to $1000. Why not? If GOD saw fit me for me to seek this challenge, I was going to accomplish more than I could imagine.
When you think small ... you get small. I can say even in auditions, I've doubted myself. Thought I couldn't possibly book a job or even do well in the audition because maybe I felt inexperienced, I wasn't in shape or I didn't look young enough. But there I go again. If GOD brought this audition/challenge to me then I must have what it takes to even be called in for it right?
I often underestimate myself. Why? Who knows. I guess we all have our issues. But we have got to seize each opportunity as if it were our last. We have to go at it with everything we've got, especially if its something we really want. When you put in the time and effort, "the work" to see it through, then only good things can come out of it. Whether I book the job or not, I still had the opportunity. And who knows where that opportunity will lead me later on that month, that year, or just in life.
I am proud of myself that I was able to surpass my initial fund raising goal and raise the $1000 dollars I went for!!! I guess my career started out that way. I kind of went in with small goals, wanting to do certain things, staying safe ... but I've put in the work, I know exactly where I want to go, what I want to do, where I want to be and I'm going go for it! I know I know, I went for it... I quit my job and I've successfully managed to have a career doing what I love.
But its time for my career, my LIFE to evolve with BIGGER hopes, dreams and purpose!
As a team, we've managed to raise close to $2000. By the time I finish writing this we may have hit that mark. But even if we didn't, we still went further than we ever expected. And well, that's pretty awesome.
Until Next Time ... THINK BIG!!
But as I saw the out pour of support from friends and family my expectations grew. Five hundred dollars was my personal goal and as I surpassed that, I increased my goal. I raised it to $650. Then I surpassed that. I raised it to $850. Then I surpassed that. So I got it in my mind that I was just gonna go to $1000. Why not? If GOD saw fit me for me to seek this challenge, I was going to accomplish more than I could imagine.
When you think small ... you get small. I can say even in auditions, I've doubted myself. Thought I couldn't possibly book a job or even do well in the audition because maybe I felt inexperienced, I wasn't in shape or I didn't look young enough. But there I go again. If GOD brought this audition/challenge to me then I must have what it takes to even be called in for it right?
I often underestimate myself. Why? Who knows. I guess we all have our issues. But we have got to seize each opportunity as if it were our last. We have to go at it with everything we've got, especially if its something we really want. When you put in the time and effort, "the work" to see it through, then only good things can come out of it. Whether I book the job or not, I still had the opportunity. And who knows where that opportunity will lead me later on that month, that year, or just in life.
I am proud of myself that I was able to surpass my initial fund raising goal and raise the $1000 dollars I went for!!! I guess my career started out that way. I kind of went in with small goals, wanting to do certain things, staying safe ... but I've put in the work, I know exactly where I want to go, what I want to do, where I want to be and I'm going go for it! I know I know, I went for it... I quit my job and I've successfully managed to have a career doing what I love.
But its time for my career, my LIFE to evolve with BIGGER hopes, dreams and purpose!
As a team, we've managed to raise close to $2000. By the time I finish writing this we may have hit that mark. But even if we didn't, we still went further than we ever expected. And well, that's pretty awesome.
Until Next Time ... THINK BIG!!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Stand or WALK for Something
As I get older, I realize the importance of giving back. Whether its to family and friends, or to a complete stranger, the feeling of helping someone just because or for a cause, brings me in closer presence with GOD and HIS purpose for us here on earth.
I've encouraged others through conversations or a card. I've given away tons of clothing that were too small or I haven't even worn. I've helped clean houses, served the homeless and prayed for others. But my mission seems to go a lot farther than that. Or maybe its just doing 'more' of it.
In 3 days I'll be participating in the MS Walk in Washington DC. I'll be walking in honor of two friends with the disease as well as for others affected by Multiple Sclerosis. One friend has had it for 14 years now and she's doing unbelievably well. She has been able to manage the disease without prescribed medicines. However, the disease affects everyone differently.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society raises money every year to continually provide treatment and hopefully, one day find a cure!
We only started 3 weeks ago to try and raise funds and our goal was small because we wanted to be realistic about starting kind of late. However, we have tripled our goal and are still working to raise money up until the walk on Saturday. I am so excited and thrilled about being a part of this movement.
I've never done anything like this before but this experience, thus far, shows me the impact I can have on others to stand for something. To show others that I don't mind giving of my time, energy or even money to support them during life changing experiences. I'm just one person of many but we all should find the time to walk, fight, dance, run, donate ... make a difference in someone's life.
Until Next Time ... In the midst of pursuing your dreams, having families, partying, vacationing ... just living ... find time to make life count, not just for you, but for others too.
I've encouraged others through conversations or a card. I've given away tons of clothing that were too small or I haven't even worn. I've helped clean houses, served the homeless and prayed for others. But my mission seems to go a lot farther than that. Or maybe its just doing 'more' of it.
In 3 days I'll be participating in the MS Walk in Washington DC. I'll be walking in honor of two friends with the disease as well as for others affected by Multiple Sclerosis. One friend has had it for 14 years now and she's doing unbelievably well. She has been able to manage the disease without prescribed medicines. However, the disease affects everyone differently.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society raises money every year to continually provide treatment and hopefully, one day find a cure!
We only started 3 weeks ago to try and raise funds and our goal was small because we wanted to be realistic about starting kind of late. However, we have tripled our goal and are still working to raise money up until the walk on Saturday. I am so excited and thrilled about being a part of this movement.
I've never done anything like this before but this experience, thus far, shows me the impact I can have on others to stand for something. To show others that I don't mind giving of my time, energy or even money to support them during life changing experiences. I'm just one person of many but we all should find the time to walk, fight, dance, run, donate ... make a difference in someone's life.
Until Next Time ... In the midst of pursuing your dreams, having families, partying, vacationing ... just living ... find time to make life count, not just for you, but for others too.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Working Beyond Yesterday
So much has happened in the last few months, career wise. The auditions have been plentiful and I've booked the majority of them. And now all the work that I've done is being brought to the masses via Television and Advertisements. People are contacting me left and right about seeing me and how proud they are of the audacity I had to pursue a career like this. A career that most won't have the courage to pursue or the faith to stick in there and see it come to fruition.
All the work I've done has been is an amazing accomplishment. But don't get it twisted, there is still more to be done, especially if I want to succeed financially. The bills will keep coming, I still gotta eat and well, life goes on. While I'm not setting out to be some big time super star, not in the eyes of man anyway, I still have to work to stay fresh and current, improving my skill, mastering my art and always staying on top of my game. Whether its exercising or taking a class, networking or volunteering, I have to keep the ball rolling.
There are so many talented, beautiful people in this industry and we all can get lost in the "cattle". But there has to be something about me that sticks out so that I can eventually get the job! In the last week I was on hold for 4 jobs and got released from them all. Although it could have been a number of reasons why I didn't book the job, I have to look at how I've been maximizing my time ... more specifically, my career.
I've gotten used to the releases, no callbacks and such ... that's a part of the process. But when I've not been doing all I can to create a thriving career for myself, then those disappointments can be a bit irritating. You get out what you put in. And frankly I've not been putting in much these days. Nobody is going to work harder for me, than me. Sure, I've put in the foot work (pounding the pavement), but when clients are booking a job, you're feet are probably the last thing they are looking at. Unless of course its an audition for feet. But you get my point.
I have just not been the productive, go getter I know myself to be. I've been productive in my mind (lol) but I've yet to get or keep the ball rolling. I've gotten comfortable. And comfortable does not keep you working. It just makes you lazy, unfulfilled and just waiting around for the next call. It produces lack, insecurity, frustration and a bunch of wasted time. I am by no means beating myself up. I'm just keeping it real with myself. I have to get out of this rut.
When reading scripture today, I came across this passage. This is the Message translation:
1 Corinthians 9:26-27: I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.
If this didn't touch my spirit to the 100th level. GOD knows my potential better than anyone. That's whats so great about being a child of GOD, cause at some point HE will call you out on your mess and you have no choice but to listen. And when GOD speaks to you ... HE does it in a profound way. The message I received made me want to light 10 fires under me and get to moving along with all I've been putting off. While I'm sitting around, lounging, watching the tube, someone else is getting new marketing tools together, planning shoots, in the gym, updating, purging, and moving their career right along even when they aren't booking jobs.
So until next time: "If you are still talking about what you did yesterday, you haven't done much today!"
All the work I've done has been is an amazing accomplishment. But don't get it twisted, there is still more to be done, especially if I want to succeed financially. The bills will keep coming, I still gotta eat and well, life goes on. While I'm not setting out to be some big time super star, not in the eyes of man anyway, I still have to work to stay fresh and current, improving my skill, mastering my art and always staying on top of my game. Whether its exercising or taking a class, networking or volunteering, I have to keep the ball rolling.
There are so many talented, beautiful people in this industry and we all can get lost in the "cattle". But there has to be something about me that sticks out so that I can eventually get the job! In the last week I was on hold for 4 jobs and got released from them all. Although it could have been a number of reasons why I didn't book the job, I have to look at how I've been maximizing my time ... more specifically, my career.
I've gotten used to the releases, no callbacks and such ... that's a part of the process. But when I've not been doing all I can to create a thriving career for myself, then those disappointments can be a bit irritating. You get out what you put in. And frankly I've not been putting in much these days. Nobody is going to work harder for me, than me. Sure, I've put in the foot work (pounding the pavement), but when clients are booking a job, you're feet are probably the last thing they are looking at. Unless of course its an audition for feet. But you get my point.
I have just not been the productive, go getter I know myself to be. I've been productive in my mind (lol) but I've yet to get or keep the ball rolling. I've gotten comfortable. And comfortable does not keep you working. It just makes you lazy, unfulfilled and just waiting around for the next call. It produces lack, insecurity, frustration and a bunch of wasted time. I am by no means beating myself up. I'm just keeping it real with myself. I have to get out of this rut.
When reading scripture today, I came across this passage. This is the Message translation:
1 Corinthians 9:26-27: I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.
If this didn't touch my spirit to the 100th level. GOD knows my potential better than anyone. That's whats so great about being a child of GOD, cause at some point HE will call you out on your mess and you have no choice but to listen. And when GOD speaks to you ... HE does it in a profound way. The message I received made me want to light 10 fires under me and get to moving along with all I've been putting off. While I'm sitting around, lounging, watching the tube, someone else is getting new marketing tools together, planning shoots, in the gym, updating, purging, and moving their career right along even when they aren't booking jobs.
So until next time: "If you are still talking about what you did yesterday, you haven't done much today!"
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
The Measure of Success
I had every intention on posting about my anniversary on my anniversary ... my 5 year anniversary in the business that is! March 9th marked 5 years from the time I left my 9 to 5 to pursue my life as a full time model and commercial actress. I think I expressed in a previous post that I when I quit, Im really not sure I grasped exactly what I was going to be doing or even how long I was planning on doing it.
I always did some type of modeling but I don't think I ever expected I'd be doing commercials and hosting. I mean hosting wasn't too far fetched because of my degree in journalism, but it didn't really enter my thought process as a career goal. *shrugs* Probably because I wasn't FOCUSED. My major was theater when I first started college and doing theater is the furthest thing from my mind now. Im not too far removed from doing television and film, but its certainly not what Im seeking to do. Im just not passionate about it. But I am open to challenging myself and auditioning for a role that comes across my plate that moves me.
I must say, I have done quite well in 5 years. I cannot complain. I've done tons of commercials and print ads and am becoming quite recognizable and respected in the industry. I always tell people Im not in this business to become a household name or famous. I just want to experience the joy of doing what I love and making a living out of doing it.
I've had conversations with friends, family members or just acquaintances who know what I do, have seen some of my work and are excited about it all. But they haven't seen the blood, sweat and tears. They haven't seen every thing I've done or realize what it takes to be in this business. They say, 'you're time is coming," "success is knocking at your door," "one day it's going to happen". I have to laugh because all of what they are saying is here... RIGHT NOW! My time is here. Success has knocked and we are toasting to it, "IT" has happened, is happening and is continuing to happen ... by the Grace of GOD!
Often times people measure success by what others have accomplished. Everyone's goal is not the same. Everyone's journey isn't the same. And everyone's mentality sho' aint the same. LOL. I will never be a Halle Berry, a Kristen Wiig, or Tyra or even the Progressive Insurance lady ... but I will always be the best Monique in whatever is Im doing.
Sure, Success is continuous but for me, its not measured by what others are doing but what I hope for, for my own career and the things I want to attain. And maybe that's just being a really good, hard working, consistently working commercial actress, model, host with maybe a few more things up my sleeve. We'll see... ; )
Until next time ... "Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in it, and it will come naturally."
I always did some type of modeling but I don't think I ever expected I'd be doing commercials and hosting. I mean hosting wasn't too far fetched because of my degree in journalism, but it didn't really enter my thought process as a career goal. *shrugs* Probably because I wasn't FOCUSED. My major was theater when I first started college and doing theater is the furthest thing from my mind now. Im not too far removed from doing television and film, but its certainly not what Im seeking to do. Im just not passionate about it. But I am open to challenging myself and auditioning for a role that comes across my plate that moves me.
I must say, I have done quite well in 5 years. I cannot complain. I've done tons of commercials and print ads and am becoming quite recognizable and respected in the industry. I always tell people Im not in this business to become a household name or famous. I just want to experience the joy of doing what I love and making a living out of doing it.
I've had conversations with friends, family members or just acquaintances who know what I do, have seen some of my work and are excited about it all. But they haven't seen the blood, sweat and tears. They haven't seen every thing I've done or realize what it takes to be in this business. They say, 'you're time is coming," "success is knocking at your door," "one day it's going to happen". I have to laugh because all of what they are saying is here... RIGHT NOW! My time is here. Success has knocked and we are toasting to it, "IT" has happened, is happening and is continuing to happen ... by the Grace of GOD!
Often times people measure success by what others have accomplished. Everyone's goal is not the same. Everyone's journey isn't the same. And everyone's mentality sho' aint the same. LOL. I will never be a Halle Berry, a Kristen Wiig, or Tyra or even the Progressive Insurance lady ... but I will always be the best Monique in whatever is Im doing.
Sure, Success is continuous but for me, its not measured by what others are doing but what I hope for, for my own career and the things I want to attain. And maybe that's just being a really good, hard working, consistently working commercial actress, model, host with maybe a few more things up my sleeve. We'll see... ; )
Until next time ... "Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in it, and it will come naturally."
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Valuable Lesson
Definition: Value - Ability to produce good; to see the importance of; to have respect for.
"Values are essential to effective leadership. They are the uncompromisable, undebatable truths that drive and direct behavior. They are motivational, giving us the reason why we do things; and they are restrictive, placing boundaries around behavior. Values are those things that we deem important and that provide direction and guidance in spite of our emotions."
Its been a little while since I've posted something. Mainly because I've been completely unmotivated, personally and professionally. After an amazing month of bookings in December, during the holiday break, I slowly settled into being lazy and doing absolutely nothing. Not a good look. Especially being self-employed, I am pretty much responsible for every aspect of my career. Hiring, Marketing, Promotion, Admin, Office Manager ... well you get the picture. And well I've been more employed on the couch and in front of the tube being completely unproductive.
My career and personal life are in Phase 2. I am definitely on another level as far as what I want out of both. But Im not necessarily making the moves to make some of those things happen. In realizing where I want to go next, during this time I realize that by me sitting around doing nothing, I am de-valuing myself. Aside from my professional talent, I have to realize also, what I can offer others outside of the business Im in.
I have helped numerous people in different ways, many in how to get in the business, be patient, stick with it and keep it going. But GOD has blessed me with other talents that can help people beyond what they see on tv and in magazines. I think somewhere along the way, my value got sucked into everything I was putting into my career and now, Im just feeling unfulfilled.
Don't get me wrong, I love what I do, but I want to be doing more for others. So in my quest to get motivated, hyped, amped, pumped and getting back in the groove of my career, I will be looking into other ways I can utilize all of my valuable assets. I've made efforts but haven't quite completed the task. Slowly but surely, Im gaining momentum and getting back into the swing of things. But honestly, there is no time to waste. There is a trash can full of time wasted with my name on it. Tomorrow is not promised, and I sure don't want to face GOD with any should've would've could'ves.
I don't want to regret NOT sharing ALL the gifts GOD has blessed me with.
Until Next Time: Remember ... What GOD gives us is not for us to hoard for ourselves. It is meant to be shared so that our blessings can infect other's so that they too, may blessed.
"Values are essential to effective leadership. They are the uncompromisable, undebatable truths that drive and direct behavior. They are motivational, giving us the reason why we do things; and they are restrictive, placing boundaries around behavior. Values are those things that we deem important and that provide direction and guidance in spite of our emotions."
Its been a little while since I've posted something. Mainly because I've been completely unmotivated, personally and professionally. After an amazing month of bookings in December, during the holiday break, I slowly settled into being lazy and doing absolutely nothing. Not a good look. Especially being self-employed, I am pretty much responsible for every aspect of my career. Hiring, Marketing, Promotion, Admin, Office Manager ... well you get the picture. And well I've been more employed on the couch and in front of the tube being completely unproductive.
My career and personal life are in Phase 2. I am definitely on another level as far as what I want out of both. But Im not necessarily making the moves to make some of those things happen. In realizing where I want to go next, during this time I realize that by me sitting around doing nothing, I am de-valuing myself. Aside from my professional talent, I have to realize also, what I can offer others outside of the business Im in.
I have helped numerous people in different ways, many in how to get in the business, be patient, stick with it and keep it going. But GOD has blessed me with other talents that can help people beyond what they see on tv and in magazines. I think somewhere along the way, my value got sucked into everything I was putting into my career and now, Im just feeling unfulfilled.
Don't get me wrong, I love what I do, but I want to be doing more for others. So in my quest to get motivated, hyped, amped, pumped and getting back in the groove of my career, I will be looking into other ways I can utilize all of my valuable assets. I've made efforts but haven't quite completed the task. Slowly but surely, Im gaining momentum and getting back into the swing of things. But honestly, there is no time to waste. There is a trash can full of time wasted with my name on it. Tomorrow is not promised, and I sure don't want to face GOD with any should've would've could'ves.
I don't want to regret NOT sharing ALL the gifts GOD has blessed me with.
Until Next Time: Remember ... What GOD gives us is not for us to hoard for ourselves. It is meant to be shared so that our blessings can infect other's so that they too, may blessed.
Monday, January 2, 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
2012 has arrived and if you are reading this GOD has continue to breath life in you. AMEN! I just want to wish you all deliverance from any thing, situation or person that is allowing you to not fully see the glory of GOD and all HE wants for your life.
Don't be afraid to let go of people or situations that are toxic. Life is too short and we don't have much time on this earth to be tied to or tied down to things that keep us hostage to NONSENSE.
Don't let anyone dictate how you should live based on how they are living. Who are they? But a human being with if not the same, different or more issues than you so you have to focus on getting you right so that ultimately, you can see the fullness of GOD's purposes for your life.
Live in Prayer, Love, Peace and Harmony. It's OK if you have to let someone go. Doesn't mean you don't love them anymore. Doesn't mean you have any ill will toward them or wish them any harm. It just means their purpose in your life has been fulfilled. GOD BLESS.
GOD truly exposed some situations and people to me that I simply cannot allow to keep around. And I feel good knowing that it is GOD's doing, not mine. After all, we can be selfish. But if GOD is leading you than you have no reason to feel guilty about your movement. Pray and trust that GOD is taking care of that situation or person.
I am moving forward. What happened last year is yesterdays news. I pray that you have done or will do the same. I wish you all prosperity, peace, love and abundance. Strengthen your relationship with GOD and dwell in the Spirit. I'm telling you the peace you gain is EXTRAORDINARY. Some people won't understand it and they may even criticize you for it because they haven't reach that level of spiritual maturity yet. But brothers and sisters, I pray that you do. But don't get me wrong... I'm still a work in process. It'll be a life-long process.
GOD IS SO AWESOME. HE has really blessed me more than words or actions can prove. I really saw HIS hand in so many situations I dealt with this past year. I see them more clearly now because of where I am spiritually. You won't judge, you won't criticize, you won't even act a fool, because the spirit won't allow you to. You just pray and trust.
So Until Next Time ... Move forward y'all ... don't bring that mess from last year into the New Year.
Don't be afraid to let go of people or situations that are toxic. Life is too short and we don't have much time on this earth to be tied to or tied down to things that keep us hostage to NONSENSE.
Don't let anyone dictate how you should live based on how they are living. Who are they? But a human being with if not the same, different or more issues than you so you have to focus on getting you right so that ultimately, you can see the fullness of GOD's purposes for your life.
Live in Prayer, Love, Peace and Harmony. It's OK if you have to let someone go. Doesn't mean you don't love them anymore. Doesn't mean you have any ill will toward them or wish them any harm. It just means their purpose in your life has been fulfilled. GOD BLESS.
GOD truly exposed some situations and people to me that I simply cannot allow to keep around. And I feel good knowing that it is GOD's doing, not mine. After all, we can be selfish. But if GOD is leading you than you have no reason to feel guilty about your movement. Pray and trust that GOD is taking care of that situation or person.
I am moving forward. What happened last year is yesterdays news. I pray that you have done or will do the same. I wish you all prosperity, peace, love and abundance. Strengthen your relationship with GOD and dwell in the Spirit. I'm telling you the peace you gain is EXTRAORDINARY. Some people won't understand it and they may even criticize you for it because they haven't reach that level of spiritual maturity yet. But brothers and sisters, I pray that you do. But don't get me wrong... I'm still a work in process. It'll be a life-long process.
GOD IS SO AWESOME. HE has really blessed me more than words or actions can prove. I really saw HIS hand in so many situations I dealt with this past year. I see them more clearly now because of where I am spiritually. You won't judge, you won't criticize, you won't even act a fool, because the spirit won't allow you to. You just pray and trust.
So Until Next Time ... Move forward y'all ... don't bring that mess from last year into the New Year.
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