ORDINARY PEOPLE Magazine - June 2022 |Vol. 13 | Issue 38 by ORDINARY PEOPLE Magazine

Editor-in-Chief

Friendship BY SHARON E. LOCKLEAR, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The word friend is mentioned 53 times in the King James version of the Bible. In scripture a true friend shows love, no matter what (Proverbs 17:17). A true friend gives heartfelt advice, bringing joy to the heart (Proverbs 27:9). A true friend rebukes when necessary, but the correction is done in love (Proverbs 27: 5-6). A true friend will stay with you even when life is rough (Proverbs 18:24).

summer of 2020, they recognized that they needed support.

With the number of times friend is mentioned, a true friend must be a valued commodity. True friendship is not associated with Facebook or people who are really acquaintances. True friends are a Blessing and are in our lives for purpose. God wants us to have true friends.

The five women used Zoom to meet two times per week to talk and support each other during the COVID Pandemic. They shared their faith, hopes, dreams, challenges and fears. Sharing allowed them to become more genuine and led to transparency. They shared all aspects of their lives, nothing was off limit.

The Pandemic changed our lives in many fundamental ways. The Pandemic tested our friendships, the lack of in-person social connections was a painful and prolonged process. Isolation was difficult for most people. Not engaging with friends face-to-face reportedly permanently damaged and ended some friendships. On the other hand, the Pandemic strengthened some friendships. The Lovely Sisterhood was formed during the Pandemic. The Lovelies is a group of five Christian women who reside in different areas of the United States and were acquainted before the Pandemic. During the

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All were working from home and represented diverse industries: government, tech company, non-profit organization, education and business owner. They shared a love for God and a commitment to each other through a self-help group.

The Lovely Sisterhood agree that their relationship deepened and became a true friendship. The level of trust, understanding and love grew exponentially within the group. There was never ridicule, judgement or condemnation. The acceptance within the group was overwhelming. The women attributed other positive improvements in their lives to the support and love received in their group. True Christian friendship exists and flourishes within the Lovely Sisterhood.

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- Courtesy of

departments Founder and Editorial Director Verna V. Nickelberry Editor-In-Chief Sharon Locklear Art Director Rushun Wiseman https://creavolutionarts.com Contributing Writers Vanderbilt Brabson Jeanette Chestnut-Chester Paola Tennon Photographers Kimberly Taylor Kendall Elem “Advertise With Us” Please Contact Us At (770) 7670649 O.P. Magazine Mail 2624 Santa Monica Dr, Atlanta Ga, 30318 (770) 767-0649 http://ordinarypeoplemagazine ORDINARY PEOPLE MAGAZINE is a quarterly publication and is distributed in Atlanta, GA, Memphis, TN; Knoxville, TN; Matteson, IL.

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contents JUNE 2022

02 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ON THE COVER 08 12 JUST TO ENCOURAGE YOU IN THE SPOTLIGHT 18 Sharon Elizabeth Locklear

How I Learned to Let My Light Shine

22 GOSPEL MUSIC/ARTISTS Gospel Recording Artist Ellen Hayes

FOR YOUR HEALTH Proper Nutrition, a Choice for Life

All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole or in part without the founder/editor’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the editor. The publication of any advertisement in the issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by the publication. © 2022 Ordinary People Magazine VeMaShe’ Enterprise LLC

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36 CONSIDER THIS 40 SMALL BUSINESS CORNER 46

MIRACLES AND BLESSINGS Thank You, Mother Part 2

Sticks and Stones

Self Acceptance and Self Esteem Braiding Camp

51 INSPIRATIONAL WORDS FROM WITHIN... 53 Verna V. Nickelberry

18 08 26

36 40

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On The Cover

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S HAR O N ELI ZA B ETH

LOCKLEAR Sharon was born and reared in Fayetteville, NC. She attended Fayetteville City/Cumberland County School systems. She has degrees and certifications from Methodist College, University of South Carolina, University of Oklahoma, University of Georgia, Villanova University. She is currently employed with the VA Mid-Atlantic Health Care Network in Durham, NC. She began her VA career at the Fayetteville, NC Veteran Administration Medical Center. Prior to joining the Veteran Health Care Administration, she was employed by the United States Army. Sharon has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for nearly 30 years. She has worked as a therapist treating active duty service members and veterans with PTSD and other psychiatric diagnoses. Her most memorable job was treating sex offenders and survivors of sexual victimization and exploitation. Other job titles: Family Program Specialist, Family Programs Director, Wellness and Readiness Specialist, Family Outreach Specialist and Social Work Supervisor. Sharon is a graduate of the Coaches Training Institute (CTI) and the CDC College for Divorce Coaching. She combines her clinical social work skills and coaching knowledge to design individualized programs for her coaching clients. She works with divorce survivors, who desire to design a life that supports and fosters their individuality and future growth. Her signature divorce coaching program is Release, Restore, Rebuild. She is currently coaching women who are struggling with depressive symptoms due to the COVID 19 Pandemic. Sharon is an avid reader, enjoys traveling and cooking. Her favorite pastime is exploring caverns in the Unites States. She has visited Carlsbad Cavern (Carlsbad, New Mexico) and Natural Bridge Caverns (San Antonio, TX) several times and plans to explore caverns in Virginia and Oklahoma next. Sharon’s absolute vice is shoe shopping. ordinarypeoplemagazine | 9

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the

EDITOR ER WH

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As always your covers are flowless! I love to MAR

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see Ms. Nickelberry on the cover. Keep up the good work. - James L.

seasen:tion i D t r Hea s, Preve ce enes Awar Consequen e h t d an oice of Ch

ghting Spotilnie Matthew Jasm in’s Beat m of Jas

This r e d i s Con e Music g Th Facin

Looking forward to reading more of the article “Thank you, Mother” , what a great read so far. - Barbara

over C e h t Loving the back cover! Awesome On

ry r e b l e Nick . V a Vern

- Unknown

Self-care really is the best care! Thanks for the reminder. - Amber

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Cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, but it does not affect everyone equally. The American Cancer Society is addressing the unequal burden of cancer by reaching individuals in underserved communities in collaboration with community partners. Our Community Health Advisors provide education, outreach, and information to men and women, particularly in the area of cancer prevention. They encourage people to practice early detection of colon, breast and cervical cancer while it is in the most treatable stages. To find out more about our Community Health Advisor program , please contact the American Cancer Society at 1.800.227.2345.

Just to Encourage

J U S T TO E N C O URAGE YOU BY MINISTER JEANETTE CHESTNUT CHESTER

Psalm 61 is a Psalm penned by King David as a lament, trust and protection. The lament is due to David’s feelings of separation from the Rock of his salvation. But why is he feeling distant, and why does he feel the need to cry out to the Lord? In this division of the Psalm as we look back, we can see that David is running from Saul, this

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madman is on his trail and trying with all his might to kill David. So, it’s understandable that the chosen King of Israel is agitated. In Psalm 59, we see that David is praying a prayer for protection. The Passion Translation verse 1-3 reads like this; “My God, protect me”! Keep me safe from all my enemies, for they are coming to kill me. Put me in a high place out of their reach— in a place so high that these assassins will never

David had a ransom on his life and he knew that only the Lord could vindicate and rescue him. In verse 9 of Chapter 59, the King confirms that his strength is found when he waits upon the Lord. This is such a telling statement! We will remember and apply this statement from the book of Isaiah 40:31- but they who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. We can let this be our truth as well. We can call on the Lord in our time of distress and persecution and He will incline His ear to us. Even though it may not seem to us that God hears, or sees what we are going through; Be Encouraged! God is Omnipresent, which means he is everywhere at the same time. Therefore, whatever is going on with us, He knows all about it. There are times when the Lord wants us to confront our wrong, by acknowledging it as King David did in Psalm 51. He was aware of his transgressions and his indiscretions, and he went to the Lord in remorse and repentance. David had sinned and that sin was pointed out to him by the Prophet Nathan. God is a Holy God, He will not and cannot be involved in sin. He will not hear us if we are living in a sinful way, not acknowledging it or asking for repentance of it.

find me. Oh Lord, I am innocent; protect me! Save me from these murdering men, these bloodthirsty killers. See how they set an ambush for my life. Let’s be clear, there were times in King David’s life when he knew he had done wrong, and there are instances when he believed that he was innocent and underserving of the hatred that was levied at him by those that sought his life.

In Psalm 61, David starts this lament with these words, “Hear my cry, O God, attend to my prayer. This is the cry of an anguished believer. The Word of God tells is that when the righteous cry out, the Lord hears and He will deliver according to Psalm 34:17-The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. But who are the righteous? We cannot deem ourselves righteous in own worth nor by our works. We can only be made righteous by God. Faith and belief in the finished works of Jesus Christ deems us righteous in the eyes of God. Romans 3:3 says that Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. David says verse 2 of Psalm 61, that “From the ordinarypeoplemagazine | 13

ends of the earth I will cry to You, when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the Rock that is higher that I. What trust!! In this instance when we feel as if we are far away

a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation. Therefore, we can see why David wanted to be led to the Rock that is higher than he was, and why we as well, should run to the Rock off our salvation. In vs. 3-4 he continues with reassurances of trust

“God is a Holy God, He will not and cannot be involved in sin. He will not hear us if we are living in a sinful way, not acknowledging it or asking for repentance of it.” from the Father, when we feel as if we are all alone in our troubles, we have but to cry to the Lord. He is the Rock that is higher, more powerful and more majestic than any other! This Rock signifies strength, steadiness, and durability. We remember that God is the strength of our lives. (Psalm 46:1) He is our impenetrable defense. He will never be brought low, and He will never be defeated! Moses spoke of the God of Israel as a Rock: “Ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect, … a God of truth and without iniquity.” (Deut. 32:3–4.) David wrote, “the Lord is my rock, and my fortress, … my shield, … my high tower.” (2 Sam. 22:2–3.) Paul explained that the children of Israel under the leadership of Moses “drank of that spiritual rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.” (1 Cor. 10:4.)

that came from his experiences with the Lord from past events. He states to the Lord “for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy. Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! (Selah) Here we have to take a moment and reflect on the record of the Lord. How has He protected you in the past? God is my protector. The Hebrew translation says that He is Elohim Shomri. Think off the instances when God as ElohimShomri, came to your rescue, to protect you when you called on Him.

Indeed, the Word of God states that Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone. The One that the builders rejected. As the Chief Cornerstone, Jesus ensures the stability of the whole system of our salvation.

When he sheltered you from the hands of the enemy? When what the enemy meant for bad, God, your protector turned it around for your good! Think of Him as your tabernacle where you can abide forever. To abide is to live in, to make your abode in, to tabernacle as a verb means to dwell in. So, when David says “I will abide in Your tabernacle forever, he is saying that he will always dwell in the Presence of the Lord. And in His Presence is the fullness of joy.

Jesus was and is the only plan of salvation. Isaiah 28:16, “Therefore this says the Lord God: ‘Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone,

Furthermore, what we see in vs. 4b, is continued trust. The statement made here is that “I will trust in

The patriarch Jacob spoke of the Lord as “the shepherd, the stone of Israel.” (Gen. 49:24.) This stone is identified as Jesus Christ. Psalm 46:5 says that God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved. God shall help her, and that right early. (Psalm 46 chapter)

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the shelter of Your wings. Wings here also refer to protection King David is trusting in the protection of the Lord’s shelter. We pray Psalm 91 over our lives, but have we ever stopped to consider the depth, width and height of the expanse of the wings of the Lord? Consider that He is well able to keep what has been committed to Him, and to His care. (2Timothy 1:2). David realized at a very young age that the Lord was more than enough. The remainder of the Psalm, David celebrates the work of God in his life and in the life of His people, using the word heritage. David was king because God made him king and he was a man after God’s own heart, which means he was responsible for many generations, which actually points to the eternal rule of Christ as the King of kings.

So we say, Lord, we thank You for being a strong tower for us against the enemy. We thank You for being our protector, we are grateful that we can abide in Your tabernacle, and find shelter under Your wings. In the midst of all things, when our hearts are overwhelmed, we have a Rock that is higher that we are, and He is our strength. Be encouraged in this, whatever is going on in your world, Jesus Christ is the same today, as He was yesterday, and forever. Just as He the was the Rock for David, He will be your Rock, your protector, your strong tower, your shelter and your God. Shalom Shalom.

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"We Create Opportunities For Others"

In The Spotlight

HOW I LEARNED TO

LET MY LIGHT SHINE BY CAROL NEAL “I don’t ever want to do THAT again!” That’s what I said after my first networking event. I had been to a lot of specific industry events for my employer where I felt comfortable because they had format and structure, but the first time I did open networking was to help a friend. He was a financial consultant, and asked if I’d help him by manning a goldfish bowl to collect cards at an open networking event while he “worked the room”. It was held at a large, noisy bar with about 200 people squeezed into a space meant to hold 50, with everyone trying to talk “at” each other and push their cards on as many people as possible. I was young and totally out of my depth and I absolutely hated it. I’ve always been an introvert, and I decided right then that if THAT was networking, networking was not for me. Fast forward a few years and I had started a side business with PartyLite candles and décor.

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I’d started it not so much to make money, but because I LOVED the products so much and my distributor said I should join the company to get lots of free product. My co-workers, friends, neighbors and family had been very supportive, but there are only so many parties a person can host…and I soon knew that I had to expand my client and hostess base. In 2008 I saw a flyer about a Joy of Connecting meeting posted on the board in my local Curves. That was the same Curves where a few months later I would meet Tracee Randall, who would become my business partner in many ventures and my sister-in-spirit. The flyer said the meeting was for women only AND it had a structured format, including dinner, so I felt it wouldn’t be as traumatic as the bar experience a few years prior. I was still nervous about preparing a 3 minute presentation. I remember I practiced and

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practiced before the meeting showing one piece that could be used several ways, and I was delighted when the presentation was a hit! The leaders and other guests were supportive and welcoming, and put everyone at ease right away. I went home that night and knew right then that hosting that type of meeting, where women were made to feel COMFORTABLE and building relationships was easy, was something I wanted to do. I met the Founder, Bonnie Ross-Parker, and told her I was interested. I couldn’t become a Leader right away because Joy of Connecting licenses were assigned by territory, so I spent the next two years on a waiting list, visiting other JOC locations, meeting more and more great women, and watching and learning from the JOC Leaders. When Susan Hendrix stepped down in my neighborhood I immediately stepped up and launched JOC Alpharetta/Milton on June 28, 2010! As a Leader I had access to incredible coaching and mentoring from Bonnie and received a whole inventory of excellent training materials, plus I now had the support and coaching of my sister Leaders. My first year as a Leader I placed first in the nation in the direct sales company I was in at that time, earning a sizeable commission and a special luncheon at conference with the company founders, as a direct result of leads generated from hosting my own JOC meetings. I continued to lead for a couple years on my own, then Susan came back and joined me as co-Leader. We had four great years together and then I was joined by Joanne Mahoney for two years and then Sarah Shapiro for two years and now I’m co-leading with Amanda Johnson…I have been blessed to partner with such fantastic, talented women who also became great friends! And I continued to learn more and grow more as a leader from working with every one of them. Along the way Tracee Randall and I also became great friends and partners in several other direct sales businesses, and I really got introduced to network marketing, in all the right ways. In addition to Bonnie I was now learning from other giants in the industry. In 2015 Tracee and I launched Atlanta Business Spotlight, publishing

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3 book collaborations, coaching entrepreneurs individually and through workshops, and putting on event after event for all sorts of causes and industries. If we could dream it, we did it! The majority of our clientele and event participants were the women of Joy of Connecting, which by then had become Xperience Connections when Bonnie rebranded it in 2013. The format however remained the same…women coming together over a meal to network and build relationships in a safe, comfortable atmosphere, with each participant getting a roster of the attendees and 3 minutes to share. In 2016 I had a secret dream fulfilled when I became the Xperience Connections CEO (which I call Chief Empowerment Officer) when Bonnie Ross-Parker took a step back and Tracee and I took over XC as a subsidiary of Atlanta Business Spotlight. Tracee became our CMO (Chief Motivation Officer) and it continues to be a perfect partnership. We were honored at the trust Bonnie placed in us when she asked us to take over her legacy, and we have kept the same basic format that Bonnie created, although we have added virtual meeting options during the last two years due to the pandemic. My mantra has always been “Let Your Light Shine”, and XC has allowed me to do just that. I have learned so much along the way, made so many great friends, worked with a fabulous XC Leadership team, created wonderful memories, found out about and used amazing products and services, and been extremely blessed to be part of such an inspiring sisterhood! I can even credit my current day job to a connection made through XC, and because of XC I was named the Atlanta Business Woman of the Year at the Woman on Fire Awards in 2016! Hopefully I have been able to pay it forward and promote, inspire and empower many others along the way. And it all started from stepping outside my comfort zone and calling a number on a flyer on a bulletin board. I thank Verna Nickleberry for the opportunity to share my journey here and hope it will inspire others who aren’t sure about networking. Verna too was an XC leader for several years! I encourage any woman who is interested in

expanding her business and meeting some amazing women to take these first steps: 1. *Join our Xperience Connections Open group on Facebook at www.tinyurl.com/ XCOpenGroup. 2. *Check out our website at www. XperienceConnections.com. 3. *List yourself in the free online directory under “Connect” and find a meeting in person or online that you can attend under “Calendar” or “Locations”,

expand to other areas where women need an opportunity to experience the difference of relationship-based networking. Bonnie Ross-Parker started us all on this journey in 2002, and we will celebrated Xc’s 20th Anniversary on August 20th 2022! Please consider ordering the recording of the three powerful speakers and the amazing workshops by contacting me at the number or email below. Carol Neal 678-457-1557 carol@xperienceconnections.com

4. *And if you’re interested in finding out more, fill out the no-obligation application at the bottom of the “Lead” page and let’s have a conversation about what becoming an XC Leader can mean for you and your business. We currently have locations in Florida and Georgia and would love to

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Gospel Music/Artists

G OSP E L R EC O R D I N G A R T I S T

EL LEN H AY E S

Detroit is known for churning out great singers. Ellen Hayes, a native of the city and a gifted alto, epitomizes church with her mastery of traditional Gospel music and contemporary Gospel music. The multi-talented organist, pianist, vocalist, songwriter, choir director and four-time Rhythm of Gospel Nominee is a force to be reckoned with. She is getting ready to shake up the world of Gospel with a long-awaited release, We Owe It All To You, dropped on March 6th. Ellen takes the listener back to the old-time church her 10-song, 13-track CD, We Owe It All To You, which releases on March 6th. Inspired by a series of prophetic dreams where she experienced Heaven, one of the project’s

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songs, “The Holy City” captures the majesty and reverence of the hereafter. Step Into Your Blessing was her debut CD project which dropped in 2012; it featured tracks written by Ellen and producer Michael Mindingall and netted Ellen four Rhythm of Gospel Award Nominations. In 2018, the Gospel Music Workshop of America held their 50th Anniversary in Detroit and featured Ellen’s song, “Oh King,” on the Bringing It Back Home album. Her late father was a pastor who moved his family, including his wife and ten children, into the upper floors of a converted bar that he turned into a church; her mother, a musician, played for the church and helped with the choir.

She is also a new member of the executive board of the National Independent Gospel Music Association, also known as NIGMA. Ellen Hayes’ Bio: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ Biography.pdf Ellen Hayes’ Press Release: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ PressRelease.pdf Ellen Hayes’ “We Owe It All To You”: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ WeOweItAllToYou.mp3 Ellen Hayes’ “The Holy City”: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ TheHolyCity.mp3

Ellen learned to play by ear, starting with the organ first and then the piano.

Ellen Hayes’ video of performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCkwxUs4U7c

In her 20s, she began directing and playing for her church choir, completely unaware that she would still be playing, directing and ministering in song some 40 years later.

Ellen Hayes’ Photo #1: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ Photo1.jpg

A talented singer and skillful interpreter of song, songwriting took hold when her father stopped allowing certain songs – ones he felt didn’t line up with scripture – to be sung in church. That decision forced Ellen to start penning her own songs, songs taken right from scripture.

Ellen Hayes’ Photo #2: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ Photo2.jpg Ellen Hayes’ We Owe It All To You Cover Art: http://www.soarmusicpublicity.com/EllenHayes/ WeOweItAllToYouCDCover.jpg

A wife of almost 40 years, the mother of eight and the grandmother of 20, Ellen Hayes is the musician at her home church, the Word of Truth Church in Detroit, Michigan, pastored by Rufus Hayes, the same church her father started decades earlier.

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He Wrote The Script... God said to Jeremiah, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee.” The same goes for all of you. God has an assignment for each of you, and it is me for you to accept it. If you are ready to consent to your calling and learn how to become an entrepreneur in the ﬁeld you are passionate about, read He Wrote the Script...Just Follow It!

PURCHASE ON AMAZON

PURCHASE ON BARNES & NOBLE

PURCHASE ON ITUNES

P U R C H A S E O N PAY PA L

Overview of Book In this engaging and interactive guide, entrepreneur Verna Nickelberry provides key tips and strategies, along with relatable biblical principles, to guide you through the essential aspects of business: creation, communication, and collaboration. With spaces for reflection, and a planner to help you organize goals, events, and opportunities, you will move further along your path to entrepreneurship. Hold God’s vision for you above any doubt, fear, or hesitation. The journey can be long and scary, but if you set credible, manageable goals for your success and allow God’s voice to guide you, you can break down the walls of negativity to build up your confidence and build up your business.

About the Author Ms. Nickelberry is the Founder and Editorial Director of Ordinary People Magazine (OPM) an inspirational magazine that showcase the stories and efforts of communities and charities. Ms. Nickelberry continuously serves others through sharing her confident spirit and the word of God. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, sewing, crocheting, and writing. Ms. Nickelberry currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia

Word Search

EC CLE SIASTE S D

WORD LIST BURIAL GOOD MIRTH OPPRESSIONS

PURPOSE DAVID HEAVEN NAME

PREACHER RASH GENERATION KING

OINTMENT PRECIOUS SEASON ordinarypeoplemagazine | 25

For Your Health

Proper N u tri t i on,

a Choice f or L i f e BY PAOLA TENNON, RN, BSN, MBA/HCA, CCM A Psalm of David written to the chief musician expresses the depts in which God knows us. In Psalm 139:14, he first gives praise, then exclaims, “for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” This gives reference to the entirety of the human body, mind, soul, and spirit. The human body although a single structure has many parts; each of which serves specific functions. A simple definition found at https://kids.britannica. com/ states that, the human body is a combination of parts and systems that work together to perform the necessary functions of life. It is composed of cells and extracellular materials that are organized into tissues, organs, and organ systems (1). To ensure that our bodies perform at their peak levels, we must provide our bodies with the proper nutrition in which to sustain them. Nutrition is more than just taking in food or drink to satisfy hunger and thirst or for growth and development. According to an article in the School of Health,

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nutrition is the study of how food and drink affects our bodies with special regard given to the essential nutrients necessary to support human health (2). Similarly, The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Cancer Institute defines nutrition as; the taking in and use of food and other nourishing material by the body. They break it down into a 3-part process. First, food or drink is consumed. Second, the body breaks down the food or drink into nutrients. Third, the nutrients travel through the bloodstream to different parts of the body where they are used as “fuel” and for many other purposes. They also stress that; in order to give the body proper nutrition, a person has to eat and drink enough of the foods that contain key nutrients (3). What we often do not take under consideration is that in order to improve, maintain or sustain an optimal quality of life, we need to make proper nutrition a focus. Case in point: the body systems

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operate at peak efficiency when we consume the proper types of nutrition on a consistent basis. In so doing, the body is able to reach its maximum potential for growth and development, bodily repair requirements and healing processes. This leads to enhanced muscle tone and coordination, increased energy levels, maintenance of a good weight, optimal mental capacity, improved digestive function, prevention, or better management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension, just to name a few. In addition, research has shown that a sedentary or inactive lifestyle only serves to enhance the problem because it is a risk factor for chronic diseases and leads to poor health outcomes and can also raise your risk of premature death. Therefore, exercise paired with proper nutrition helps in the maintenance of a proper weight, muscular strength and agility, joint flexibility, increased heart rate, increased lung capacity and in the reduction of stress (17). Remember that proper nutrition is essential for a sound mind, body, and Spirit. The Biblical reference and focus for this article are from the Book of Daniel. Daniel, whose name means “God is my Judge” was a young Jewish boy who was taken into Babylonian captivity by King Nebuchadnezzar and was trained for service in the

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Babylonian royal court and served in influential positions under four Kings. The primary focus of the Book of Daniel is that God is sovereign over all history (4). The Apostle Paul presents a question in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, when abbreviated reads; “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit whom you have received from God and that we are to honor God with your bodies. (5)” One might ask, why this particular scripture is significant? It is significant because these bodies are not ours, they were bought with a price, and we have a responsibility to take care of them. In the story of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar commanded Daniel to eat and drink wine from the kings table because he believed that it would make his captives healthy. However, Daniel remained faithful to God and made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s food or wine. “So, he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself. Daniel and his three friends were tested for ten days and only given vegetables to eat and water to drink. And at the end of ten days, they looked healthier and better nourished than all the young men who were eating the king’s food (6).” Not only was their physical health maintained, but their mental capacity far exceeded all the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom in every matter in

which the king consulted them. This story is significant because it points out that the foods, we eat contain nutrients which are substances required by the body to perform its basic functions. They can only be obtained from our diet because the human body cannot produce them. Nutrients provides energy, contributes to body structure, and regulates chemical processes in the body, all of which can become vulnerable due to unhealthy diets. Research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that the American diet and typical eating habits have changed from one that is high in fruit, vegetables, and grains; to those high is sugar, salt, and fat. In addition, further research shows that US obesity prevalence increased from 30.5% to 42.4% from 1999 –2000 through 2017 –2018; and during the same time, the prevalence of severe obesity increased from 4.7% to 9.2% (7). These changes can ultimately lead to the development of chronic diseases if not addressed. Chronic diseases are defined broadly as conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical attention or which limit activities of daily living or both. In the United States, chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are the leading causes of death and disability and attribute to the

nation’s $3.8 trillion annual health care costs (8). Sadly, recent statistics from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that six in ten adults in the US have a chronic disease and four in ten adults have two or more. Contributing risk factors include tobacco, poor nutrition (Nutrition involving diets low in fruits and vegetables and high in sodium) and saturated fats, lack of physical activity and excessive alcohol use. It is important for us to understand that diet impacts our body systems (8). A report published by the Cleveland Clinic May 19, 2021, states that; ‘Your food choices can have a profound impact on how long you’ll live.’ They further state that the battle against heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes which are three of the world’s leading causes of death may be won or lost on your grocery list.” This is because unhealthy eating habits increase the risk of death associated with these chronic diseases and according to research, poor dietary habits contributed to almost half of more than 700,000 deaths reviewed as part of a study published in 2017. While all of these statistics seems depressing, we end on a more promising note concerning a study published in 2019, which concluded that Healthy lifestyle choices reduce the risk of stroke by 80% (9). ordinarypeoplemagazine | 29

Nutrition studies have also shown that, what you eat plays a big role in how well your immune system functions. For example: 1. Some foods hinder immune function making one more susceptible to viruses and other pathogens. 2. Fried foods which promote inflammation; in addition to highly processed foods including refined grains and sugars all either deplete nutrients, weaken the immune response, or prevent proper immune function. 3. Foods high in sodium (salt) increase blood pressure and causes stress on your cardiovascular system. Unmanaged, high blood pressure can cause changes in your blood vessels, and that can increase risk factors for heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. 4. Added strain is placed on the digestive system resulting from foods high in sodium, fat or heavy with refined carbohydrates and carbonation and can lead to bloating, reflux, and other gastrointestinal challenges (9). An article by The Monarque Health & Wellness Center in Ashland OR, entitled “5 Things Poor Nutrition Does to Your Overall Health;” stress the importance of healthy living and healthy eating. The following list are pointers on how to better manage these issues through proper diet (10). 1. Decreased energy levels: Whole, unprocessed meals of mostly vegetables, fruit, lean protein, and whole grains contribute to healthy functioning and increased energy levels. 2. Reduced immunity: People with healthy diets have been found to have stronger overall immune systems, allowing them to fight off illnesses. Remember to choose a variety of foods to make sure you’re getting a full range of your needed vitamins and minerals. 3. Disrupted sleep quality: There are many factors that can lead to a lower quality of sleep, and poor nutrition is one of them. Unhealthy diets can lead to obesity, which is correlated with conditions such as sleep apnea, snoring, and restless legs syndrome in addition to heartburn or gastric reflux. 4. Affected mood: Sugary, starchy foods

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like cakes, biscuits, and white bread can cause energy crashes, they can also affect your mood, leading to increased levels of depression and low mood. This is thought to be a cycle of blood sugar spikes and insulin responses. A healthy diet with lots of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains decreased levels of depression and fatigue. 5. Increased risk of memory problems: Multiple studies have identified a link between nutrients found in a healthy diet and a reduced risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Although there are many other reasons why people are faced with poor nutrition, we will only be able to address a few. Lastly, according to the American Heart Association (AHA), there are societal challenges that make it harder for some individuals to consume a heart-healthy diet, and many impacted are people from diverse race or ethnic backgrounds (11). An article published by the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture entitled “Differences in the Local Food Environment Are Not the Main Cause of Nutritional Inequality”; reports that many studies show evidence of nutritional inequality, where low-income households tend to eat less healthfully than high-income households. They further state that, Lowincome households, pregnant and lactating women, infants, and toddlers, the elderly, and the critically ill are examples of groups at risk. The elderly is particularly in a high-risk group for several reasons, and they ultimately lead to the risk of poorer outcomes. Some of these reasons include the development of chronic diseases, nutrient deficiencies due to poor appetite, illness, depression, loneliness, intestinal issues, limited budget, transportation, lack of interest, diminishing mental capacity, poor dentition, the lack of adequate community resources from which to obtain food and the list goes on. Any of these forementioned examples can also apply to other groups (15). There was an article published September by the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture entitled; “Differences in the Local Food Environment are Not the Main Cause of Nutritional Inequality.”

This article stated that, diet is an important driver of obesity and other health outcomes. However, many studies show evidence of nutritional inequality, where low-income households tend to eat less healthfully than high-income households.” We eat because our bodies have a need. So, as you consider the information in this article; let us make our focus: optimal health, wellbeing, and wellness.

•

Tips on Developing a Healthy Eating Pattern: Clever Spending (18)

•

Here are some great suggestions to get you started on shopping for healthy food that costs less: • •

• • • •

•

plan your healthy weekly menu ahead including meals and snacks for the week and then write your shopping list shop around locally to find the best prices, and look for the lowest cost per kg or unit look out for specials and buy everyday foods in bulk as they are usually cheaper cook in bulk and freeze for later use go for fresh fruit and vegies that are in season as they are often less expensive and better in quality and taste buy cheaper cuts of meat, for example chicken thighs and stewing beef/lamb, and trim the fat for cooking in casseroles and stews

•

try legumes such as tinned kidney beans, chickpeas, soya beans or lentils for a tasty and cheaper alternative to meats in salads or casseroles spend the least on ‘occasional’ foods such as soft drinks, chocolates, cakes, biscuits, potato crisps and takeaway foods, which are not recommended for everyday healthy eating and are often expensive. frozen and canned fruit and vegetables can be a cheap and healthy alternative to fresh items. Choose canned veggies with no added salt (or reduced salt), and canned fruit in natural juice or water consider growing your own vegetables or get involved in your local community kitchen garden buy from local food co-ops or farmers markets in your area.

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REFERENCES 1. 2.

3. 4. 5.

6. 7.

8. 9.

10.

11.

12.

13. 14.

15.

Human Body- https://kids.britannica.com/ students/article/human-body/630116 What is Nutrition? https://www. schoolofhealth.com/nutrition-courses/whatis-nutrition/#:~:text=Nutrition%20is%20 the%20study%20of,are%20converted%20 into%20body%20tissues. Nutrition- https://www.cancer.gov/ publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/ nutrition Dockrey, K., Godwin, J., Godwin, P. (2000). The student Bible dictionary. Barbour Publishing, Inc. New International Version Bible, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20https://www.biblestudytools. com/1-corinthians/ passage/?q=1+corinthians+6:19-20 New International Version Bible https://www.bible.com/bible/111/DAN.1.820.NIV Adult Obesity Facts- https://www.cdc.gov/ obesity/data/adult.html#:~:text=From%20 1999%20%E2%80%932000%20 through%202017,and%20certain%20 types%20of%20cancer. About Chronic Diseases- https://www.cdc. gov/chronicdisease/about/index.htm A Poor Diet Increases Your Risk of Dying from Heart Disease, Stroke, Diabetes - https://health.clevelandclinic.org/a-poordiet-increases-your-risk-of-dying-fromheart-disease-stroke-diabetes/ 5 Things Poor Nutrition Does to Your Overall Health - https://www. monarquehealth.com/blog/5-things-poornutrition-does-to-your-overall-health American Heart Association Releases the First Updated Dietary Guidelines in 15 Years - https://www.everydayhealth.com/ heart-health/american-heart-associationreleases-the-first-updated-dietaryguidelines-in-years/ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Adult Obesity Facts https:// www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/pdf/factsheets/ poor-nutrition-H.pdf Adult Obesity Facts - https://www.cdc.gov/ obesity/data/adult.html Food Insecurity - https://www. healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/ topic/social-determinants-health/ interventions-resources/food-insecurity Nutrition and Immunity - https://www. hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/nutrition-

and-immunity/ 16. Differences in the Local Food Environment Are Not the Main Cause of Nutritional Inequality - https://www.ers. usda.gov/amber-waves/2020/september/ differences-in-the-local-food-environmentare-not-the-main-cause-of-nutritionalinequality/#:~:text=September%20 01%2C%202020-,Differences%20 in%20the%20Local%20Food%20 Environment%20Are,Main%20 Cause%20of%20Nutritional%20 Inequality&text=Diet%20is%20an%20 important%20driver,healthfully%20 than%20high%2Dincome%20households. 17. Health Risks of an Inactive Lifestyle - https://medlineplus.gov/ healthrisksofaninactivelifestyle.html RESOURCES 1. 2. 3. 4.

5. 6. 7. 8.

Recipe Collection - https://www.nutrition. gov/topics/shopping-cooking-and-mealplanning/recipe-collection Poor Nutrition - https://www.cdc.gov/ chronicdisease/pdf/factsheets/poornutrition-H.pdf Nutrition - https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/ index.html 5 Top Nutrition Resources to Share with Patients - https://blog.evisit.com/virtualcare-blog/top-nutrition-resources-nationalnutrition-month U.S. Department of Agriculture https://www.nutrition.gov/ Eat Right: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics - https://www.eatright.org/food My Plate - https://www.myplate.gov/ Nutrition Education Resources & Materials - https://www.fda.gov/food/ food-labeling-nutrition/nutrition-educationresources-materials

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Miracles and Blessings

Thank You,

M OTHER BY JAMES RATLIFF

PART 2 As I grew older, somewhere around ten years of age, I learned that my father was abusive to my mother. I witnessed my two older brothers fighting with my father on several occasions. I saw my oldest brother try to kill my father with a knife. I felt my happiness fading from that point on in my life. My perspective changed and I was not happy anymore. I began to see my father differently. I did not like what I saw. My father and mother babied me. I felt special with them. My mother told me that the reason they treated me that way was because I almost died as a baby also that daddy falsely accused her of cheating on him. He got drunk and told her that I was not his child. He came back later that day and apologized to her and named me after his father. Those was the reasons they treated me a little different from the rest of my siblings. I did not mind at all. As I watched my father grow increasingly hateful and violent, I vowed never to be like him. I would help women and not abuse them. I

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promised myself that I would be that person who would love others and do good to others. I watched my mother cook, clean, and take care of us. She taught us values. She disciplined us and taught us how to read and write. She would always tell us to make something of ourselves. She was proud of us and loved us more than she loved herself. She gave us all she had, her selfless love and devotion. She was more than a remarkable woman; she was life to us. She lived for God and her children. She made sacrifices so that we could live better lives. Education was key to success for her. She had an eighth-grade education. She pushed us to learn and apply what we learned. She wanted us boys to stick together and not let anything or anyone come between us. She would always say, “you all are brothers, do not fight or lose that relationship for anyone or any reason.” Mother was our rock, our strength, and our security. I believed in her and that will never fade. She was

the last of a dying breed. She was a woman in all the true sense of the word. She is what God meant for her to be. She loved the Lord with all her heart, soul, and mind. She kept us in church. We would walk for miles to Sunday school and church. It would take us at least two hours to walk to church. She taught us to love even our enemies. Even our own father. Although I did not know Grandmother Shambry, I know that mother got her strength from her. I learned that Grandmother Shambry was a strong woman. She was an industrious woman with sound moral character. She was born Shambry Martin. I do not know much about my fathers’ side of the family. I knew his mother. We called her big momma. She was mean and daddy was mean. Her name was Willie Mae Taylor. I was somewhat of a sensitive child. I did not like to do what other people did. I was a loner. I would sit out on the woodpile or go off into the woods at my favorite spot and just think. I wanted to be someone in life. I knew that I would at least try to amount to something in life. I did not want to disappoint mother or myself. I just felt different. I was successful in music in high school. I was smart and made good grades, until I realized that there were creatures known as girls and that they were anatomically different. Then my grades suffered for a short while. I was able to get pass the brief distractions and pulled the grades back up. When I graduated high school, I even received an award for qualities of leadership. It was called the “I dare you” award. I was so proud. My mother was proud, also. Even my father was proud. I received a scholarship in music to college. I turned it down because I wanted to go to another college instead. I was also successful in college. I was a fast leaner. During my first year, I was exempt from taking finals in three classes. I had a high GPA. Later, I received an academic scholarship to study at Roosevelt University in Chicago, Illinois. I am like my mother in many ways. I heard her voice then and I still hear her voice telling us to make something out of ourselves. I heard that voice throughout my life. I listened the best I could. I went to college, I got good grades, I studied and got good jobs. I became a supervisor

at age nineteen at Sears and Roebuck in Chicago. I joined the Marine Corps and became an Intelligence Analyst. I later joined the U.S. Navy and became a Hospital Corpsman. I got my license as a Private Investigator and conducted undercover work in Beverly Hills, Ca. I later joined the Air National Guards and retired as a Security Specialist. I began a career with the Parole Department in Alabama and became a parole/probation officer. I also had jobs as Director of Security for two major hotels. I worked as Senior account manager and account manager for two major companies. My last job was as Director of Victim Services for a police department. I am nationally certified as a comprehensive victim intervention specialist. God also called me to preach His Gospel. I am an Apostle.

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“ S E L F CARE”

I S T H E BE ST CA R E!

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Consider This

STICKS AND STONE S BY VANDERBILT BRABSON III, AUTHOR

Pastor and author Chuck Swindoll, once shared a story regarding an incident that happened during the Korean war. This was a war fought between the Republic of Korea (South Korea and supported by the United Nations) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea and supported by China and the Soviet Union). Swindoll communicated that a group of four (4) American GI’s, who were serving in Korea, decided to rent a house in the local village there in South Korea where they were stationed. They also decided to hire for themselves a local house-boy to cook and keep the house clean. Therefore, they hired this one particular houseboy [a South Korean lad] because he appeared to be mild mannered and good spirited. And because these fun-loving

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soldiers believed him to be mild mannered and good spirited, for the next few weeks these soldiers pulled prank after prank on this young Korean lad as he worked in their rented home. For example… 1. One morning as the lad slipped his feet into his sandals, he immediately tumbled over when he attempted to take the first step because these fun-loving soldiers had nailed his shoes to the floor. The lad said nothing to the soldiers about it. He simply removed the nails from his sandals and the floor and went about his daily chores. 2. On another occasion when he went into the kitchen to prepare dinner, he

had rigged a pale of water above the door which immediately spilled down all over him and the groceries he was carrying as he entered the house. The boy showed no emotion but simply cleaned up the mess and quietly prepared their meal. Finally, after several weeks, these American soldiers felt sorry for the good-mannered Korean lad and said to one another, “Hey, enough is enough. This kid has had to contend with everything we have thrown at him over the last few weeks, and he simply takes it in stride and never even gets angry.”

discovered the soldiers had deliberately poured grease all over the top of the stove and down into the burners. This of course meant before he could get underway with cooking their meal, he first had to clean all the grease from the stove top surface, as well as all the grease which had been deliberately poured down into the burners. As before, the lad said nothing to the soldiers about it. He simply cleaned up all the mess and went about his daily chores. 3. Still on another occasion as the lad was entering the house with an arm full of groceries one evening, the soldiers

So, the four soldiers called the young boy in and confessed their mischief and apologized to the lad for all of their pranks. The young boy was surprised by their confession, so he looked up and asked, “No more nail shoes to floor?” They responded, “No more nail shoes to floor.” “No more grease on stove?” “No more grease on stove,” they replied. Lastly, he asked, “No more water over door?” The soldiers replied, “No, no more water over door.” The boy looked up into the faces of each of them to determine their sincerity. Satisfied with what he heard and what he saw in their faces, he replied, “Okay… no more spit in your soup!” Perhaps at times we find ourselves also walking in the same sandals worn by this little Korean ordinarypeoplemagazine | 41

lad when circumstances in our lives begin to spin out of our control. Have you and I ever dawned a big smile for our boss, our friends, our coworkers, and yes—our neighbors, despite the fact that inwardly they are getting on our very last saved nerve? How about when people we thought were our friends begin intentionally excluding us from functions, which we all once enjoyed together? That can be very painful whether we admit it or not. So, to spite them we simply find ourselves pretending we are totally unaffected by their words, their actions, and their exclusion of us. Sure, on the surface, and in front of others we appear to be in good-spirits, mild-mannered, carefree and untroubled. However, if the truth be known, inwardly aren’t we really spitting in the soup, harboring thoughts which we dare not speak or share with others?

den of lions. When Daniel discovered the decree had been signed into law, he did not hesitate continuing to kneel and worship God three times a day without fail. This story is very familiar to Bible readers. When Daniel was cast into the den of hungry, savage lions, God shut the mouths of the lions and Daniel remained unharmed throughout the night he spent with those lions. However, the next morning when Daniel, being unharmed, was removed from the den of lions, those who had tricked King Darius into having Daniel thrown into the lions’ den suffered a horrific fate when they themselves and their entire families were cast into the same den of lions. God intervened in Daniel’s life and circumstances, shutting the mouths of hungry lions. Perhaps it was because Daniel’s life truly exemplified what Jesus declared in Matthew 5:16 that we as believers are to

In the book of Daniel 6:1-5, we find the following: “Let your light so shine before men, that they 1Darius the Mede decided to divide the kingdom into 120 provinces, and he appointed a high officer to rule over each province. 2 The king also chose Daniel and two others as administrators to supervise the high officers and protect the king’s interests. 3 Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers. Because of Daniel’s great ability, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire. 4 Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. 5 So they concluded, “Our only chance of finding grounds for accusing Daniel will be in connection with the rules of his religion.” Of course, the remainder of Daniel, chapter 6 reveals how the other administrators and officers who were jealous of Daniel tricked King Darius into signing into law a decree that anyone found worshipping anything or anyone other than him over the next thirty days would be cast into the

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may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”.

and trust our Lord for the results. He is more than worthy of our love and obedience.

What about you and me today, are we really reflecting God’s light in our homes, our communities, our relationships, our jobs, publicly and privately? Of course, the bigger question is… do we really want to reflect His light in the presence of those around us? When my siblings and I were children, there were times when other kids said ugly, mean things to us, and we would always respond, “Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words will never hurt me.”

Perhaps you may want to join me in the following prayer: Dear God my Father, give me the strength to persevere and trust You in all things, whether in sickness and in health, in the good times as well as challenging times. Not only did You call us to eternal life through faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ at Calvary, but You empowered each of us with Your indwelling Holy Spirit at the moment we trusted in Christ’s sacrifice for the remission of our sin. Thank You for the power to overcome the attacks and deceptions from the enemy of our soul, our Adamic nature, and the ungodly lures of the worldly system around us. Help us to daily call upon Your power to reflect Your light despite the sticks and stones and the harsh words we sometimes have to endure. Give us faith to trust You completely in all things, and may our lives truly and daily bring glory and honor to You. We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.

But whether we admit it or not, words really do hurt and harm, and when we refuse to admit it, and fail to trust Christ for inner strength to 1) cease from retaliating and 2) for strength to reflect His light to those around us no matter our circumstances, we are simply left smiling on the outside while spitting in the soup on the inside. Let’s live lives honoring to God as Daniel did,

“Our responsibility is simply to make our witness faithful; it is God’s responsibility alone to make it effective.” John MacArthur John Fullerton MacArthur Jr. is an American Reformed Baptist pastor and author known for his internationally syndicated Christian teaching radio and television program Grace to You. He has been the pastor of Grace Community Church, a non-denominational church in Sun Valley, California, since February 9, 1969. © May 2022 Vanderbilt Brabson III

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"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1

“Guys…this is Missile Morgan” Seeking to overcome the scars from her abusive, alcoholic father, Jesse Cartwright, Anthony’s best friend from childhood, is determined to make something of her life. Tomboyish in every way, at times her stubbornness puts her in direct conflict with Anthony’s other friends. A born fighter, she ultimately proves to be tougher than every boy in the neighborhood and the only friend Anthony can really count on. As Anthony battles his inner demons in his march toward glory, and Jesse struggles through her own personal tragedies and loss, their paths grow apart. Eventually the two dis- cover their lives are somehow intertwined and neither will truly realize his or her dreams without the other. Surpassing the expectations his father had for him, Anthony Morgan is poised to be the biggest phenomenon baseball has seen in years. Anthony’s future is set. He has worked hard for it, dreamed about it all his life, and can practically taste it! However, what Anthony could not foresee was the untimely death of his father—his mentor and hero. This tragedy started a downward spiral of bad decisions, which ultimately threaten Anthony’s life and future in baseball. Beyond the Lies is as captivating as The Natural, as compelling as Love Comes Softly, and at times as humorous as Diary of a Mad Black Woman. It’s a coming of age story that will appeal to the young and old, the sports enthusiast, the romantic, those gripped by human tragedy, and those who celebrate the triumph of the human spirit. Author Mr. Vanderbilt Brabson, III https://beyondthelies-theboo.com https://www.amazon.cm/Vanderbilt-Brabson-III/e/ B004DWVNW?ref=dbs_p_pbk_r00_abau_000000 See the book Trailer at https://www.vanderbiltbrabsoniii.com

Small Business Corner

Se lf Ac ce p tance and Sel f E ste e m

B r ai di ng

C am p

The S.A.S.E Hair Braiding camp has been in operation for the last 9 years and we are eagerly awaiting our 10th anniversary. Our camp’s 10-year anniversary will be an exciting time for us to celebrate and give back in a huge way to the young ladies in our community. Our camp wouldn’t be possible without community support from other nonprofits such as Heal the Hood, UCan of Memphis, A Step Ahead, The Hygiene Chic, and sponsors that want to remain anonymous.

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p ordinarypeoplemagazine | 47

How we Started In 2013, I saw a need in the community to help reach girls in Memphis, TN, and felt I should teach and reach from my skill set of styling and braiding hair. Memphis had an influx of teenage pregnancies, a growing runaway number, and a trafficking percentage. I pitched my idea around to family, and salon clients, and received supportive feedback. Thus Camp S.A.S.E. was established and created. The camp acronyms stand for Self Acceptance and Self Esteem. The meaning was perfect, based on the fact that many young ladies didn’t accept unique qualities about themselves and some struggled with self-esteem. Each year since 2013, our camp has hosted Camp S.A.S.E in different locations to showcase a variety of the beautiful areas in Memphis. It’s important to me that the locations offer a unique space, with amenities, and are large enough for us to learn. It was pointed

48 | June 2022

out to me that many children in underprivileged areas weren’t exposed to different parks, buildings, or hadn’t been more than 10-15 miles outside their community. Again, exposure is everything! Camp S.A.S.E. has hosted young women from 9 different states. Those state representations have been of course Tennessee, Mississippi, Georgia, Arkansas, South Dakota, Louisiana, Missouri, Kentucky, and Texas. We pride ourselves on diversity of inclusivity and welcome all. It’s with high hopes that we can host a Girl Power tour to reach other states and young women.

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REMEMBER TO INCLUDE SELF-CARE WITHIN YOUR WEEKLY SCHEDULE Create your own self-care routine!

Inspirational Words

I N S P I RAT IONA L WORD S Take a Leap of Faith and be bold, be courageous As you become your authentic self! Dream big, when you dare to dream, anything is possible! Never stop believing in yourself, always stay focus on your goals, focus on what you want, if you can see it, you can obtain it. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen”. Hebrews 11:1 Never forget that you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” Psalms 14:a. You can do “all things through Christ who strengthens” you! Phil 4:13 Live in expectation, Laugh with joy, and Love intensely! V.V. Nickelberry

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advertise with us Why advertise with Ordinary People Magazines (OPM) Advertising in print yields greater increases in brand awareness, brand favorability and purchase intent than online or TV advertising. Advertising in print adds substantially to the persuasion power as any other media. Print magazine advertising has an impact regardless of size or placement and 64% of readers are inspired to take action after seeing a print magazine ad. Magazine media audiences continues to grow: Audience for print and digital magazines increased by 5.4 million adults 18+ from 2015-2016. Magazine readership grows long after publication date. The total number of adults who read digital edition magazines grew 27% between 2015-2016. Digital edition magazine readers are upscale, educated professional, managerial young adults and very diverse. Magazine advertising doesn’t take a vacation: As one of our greatest source, magazines satisfy multiple consumer passions and interests with over 226 new print magazine brands launched in 2016. The staying power of print magazine is unbelievable

Magazines build buzz: Magazine readers are more likely than users of other media to influence friends and family on products across a variety of categories. Magazines complement the web in reaching social networkers, whom marketers increasingly favor to generate word of-mouth. Print magazines excel in reaching super influential consumers in healthcare and healthy living, as well as readers are top spenders on beauty and skin care products. Ref. www.magazine.org - magazine media factbook 2017/18 Services We Can Provide To Our Advertisers Ordinary People Magazine (OPM) can offer our advertisers web site design/ development, and ad design through our Art Department. Advertising on OPM”s web site (call for pricing.) We also offer consultation in social media such as, Face book, Twitter , and LinkedIn. OPM, your One-Stop-Shop for advertising.

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FROM WITHIN... BY VERNA V. NICKELBERRY Can you believe that it is June already! Time is moving so fast! It seem just yesterday is was the beginning of 2022! The world is moving at a speed of light, some time I want to scream into the atmosphere “SLOWDOWN!” You are moving to fast! Not only does it feel as if the world is moving too fast (it seem) but we (mankind) are moving just as fast! We want everything quick, fast, and in a hurry! Not taking time to slow down and enjoy life. I often think to myself, is this the cause of the “Self-Care” movement?

we need to slow down and that care of ourself. That we need to be our own selfcare advocate. That we need to “stop and smell the roses.” One scripture comes to mind, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” 3John 1:2 I do believe that this scripture say it all! It need not to be explained. Or do it? And as always, Love, Peace, and Increase… Verna V. Nickelberry

Did we wake up and realize that ordinarypeoplemagazine | 53

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ORDINARY PEOPLE Magazine - June 2022 |Vol. 13 | Issue 38

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INSPIRATIONAL WORDS

Braiding Self Acceptance and Self Esteem Camp

STICKS AND STONES

MOTHER Thank You,

Proper Nutrition, a Choice for Life

ELLEN HAYES GOSPEL RECORDING ARTIST