Tuesday, December 31, 2013

A Look Back

Bye, Bye 2013!!!


2013 has been a year to remember…  One filled with lots of change, movement and growth.  But the biggest lesson that has been constant for me throughout this year (and years past) is that “You’ve got to keep pressing towards the mark”…  Whatever “mark” you’ve set for yourself personally (spiritually), professionally and otherwise. 

As you take “A Look Back” and examine the past year, view the changes you’ve had to make in order to put you closer to your goals.  Assess the actions you’ve had to take to move you in alignment with your dreams, but more importantly take note of your personal growth as I’m most assured these last 365 days has caused you to evolve as in individual. 

In closing this year out, be grateful for the good times, thankful for the turbulent times - because you made it through, and appreciative of the opportunities you were awarded too.  Remember, the race is not given to the swift nor the strong, but to the one who endures to the end…   You made it!!!

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Madiba "THE MAN"



 One week ago today (December 5, 2013), we lost one of the world’s most influential leaders and role models.  Nelson Mandela, the first South African Black President, lived a life that was extraordinary; one filled with hope, resiliency, vigor and poise.

Mandela was a man of great wisdom who used that insight to rally a nation to fight for equal rights of all mankind.  He truly exemplified “change” and served as proof, that one man determined to do what is in the best interest of all humanity can earnestly made a difference not only in the life of an individual, but an entire nation.

May we forever celebrate the life and legacy of “Madiba”; an amazing human being by emulating the works that he did, because we too “can change the world and make it a better place”, as it is in our hands to do so. 

Monday, November 11, 2013

Veterans... Past and Present



Honorably, They Served….  There are many Airman, Sailors, Soldiers and Marines who have proudly sacrificed their lives for the love of these United State of America.  And their willingness to serve has allowed American Citizens the ability to enjoy the freedoms that we all experience as a collective today.  So, we salute them and their families for their patriotism to our country.   

  
Two Veterans, Family For Life




On this day, November 11th, I also pay special homage to a fellow veteran, my Great Uncle, Lester “Biggie” Terry Jr. for his former service to this country as he served courageously during World War II in the US Army.  In remembering all who performed their military duties bravely with honor and commitment, we salute you today!  Happy Veteran’s Day to “All American Veterans, Past and Present”.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

It’s Never Too Late… Support the Cause



As “Breast Cancer Awareness” month comes to a close, women all over the world will keep the ball rolling throughout the year as they “Think Pink”!  And many courageous survivors will continue to thrive hoping for a “CURE” to this destructive condition called “Breast Cancer”.  
This “DIS-EASE” affects all ethnic groups, but the greater impact is amongst African American Women as it’s the most commonly found cancer in our culture.   Despite lower incidences among black women, the disparities between black and white women for contracting breast cancer is disturbing as black women are more likely to die from it.   


Cheryl Regina Robinson

This leads me into sharing a very personal story, one that I seldom speak on because it is near and dear to my heart.  Nevertheless, it’s during this time of year, I’m always reminded of a “Sister-Like Friend” of mine by the name of “Cheryl Regina Robinson”…


She lost the fight to breast cancer some seven years ago on Monday, September 18, 2006.  I can recall that day, me coming home from a cruise to find a message on my answering machine left by the nurse who was caring for her during her last readmittance into the hospital.

As I sat on the bed in tears after receiving the bad news, I remembered the day she’d asked me to accompany her to an outpatient care facility for a breast biopsy…  Little did we know, the news would come back revealing the onset of breast cancer.  

From that day up until her passing, I rode the emotional roller coaster with her, from the halos of hope, frustrations and fears to a permanent peace that surpassed even my own comprehension once I’d heard her say “I’ve released it all to GOD and forgiven everyone including myself, I’m at peace now.” 


Cheryl Collection:  Black Bald Beautiful - Pink Ribbon (Light Pink)

So, what can we do?  How can we help?  How can we provide support to black women who have been affected by breast cancer and raise awareness amongst others?  

Get involved!  Become Informed!  And pass the word on about performing monthly self-breast exams, detecting the signs for early diagnosis, scheduling mammograms (having clinical breast exams) and obtaining effective treatment options that aligns with the individual’s medical care choice and/or beliefs.   

We can win the fight by supporting the cause…  In honor of my dear friend Cheryl, I designed a tshirt in support of African American Women who have been affected by the disease or who have beaten the odds and their cancer is in remission.  Remember, it’s never too late…  Donate and Support the Cause for a Cure!  Purchase your “Breast Cancer Awareness Tshirt” Because You CARE. 
                                     (To make your purchase, click here)
 
 ***In the “Loving Memory of Cheryl Robinson”, $2 from every shirt purchased 
will go to support a woman who has been diagnosed with 
breast cancer and is in need of assistance***