in·teg·ri·ty
in-teɡrədē/
noun
noun: integrity
- 1.the
quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral
uprightness."she/he is known to be a (wo)man of integrity"synonyms: honesty, probity, rectitude, honor, good character,
principle(s), ethics, morals, righteousness, morality, virtue, decency, fairness,
scrupulousness, sincerity, truthfulness,
trustworthiness. "I never doubted his/her integrity"
antonyms: dishonesty
With certainty, a lot has been written, stated, quoted and lived out citing the word "integrity" - - even as far back in the ole days when King Solomon reigned. In Proverbs 10:9 we read.
"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." (NIV)
A few mornings ago, the word integrity entered my mind as soon as I opened my eyes from a restful slumber. [Humans], at least the majority of us - I hope, work diligently to adhere to our word and actions. If we say we are going to do something we try our best to do so. However, in pop culture, people increasingly take a pass from following through on their commitments using statements such as, "life just gets in the way" or the more popular statement we all say, "I am so busy.
Extraordinary circumstances such as an unexpected illness, the lack of financial or insufficient resources, the new puppy ate the document, the debilitating economy and not being able to secure a stable employment, and other reasons are hindering progress. Promise, a word that gives "reason to expect that something will happen in the future". Think for a moment, when was the last time you promised someone something and you actually delivered the goods? Initially, our reasons for wanting to accomplish a goal is very admirable and the intentions are always welcome, embraced and appreciated. So, what is the point?
Extraordinary circumstances such as an unexpected illness, the lack of financial or insufficient resources, the new puppy ate the document, the debilitating economy and not being able to secure a stable employment, and other reasons are hindering progress. Promise, a word that gives "reason to expect that something will happen in the future". Think for a moment, when was the last time you promised someone something and you actually delivered the goods? Initially, our reasons for wanting to accomplish a goal is very admirable and the intentions are always welcome, embraced and appreciated. So, what is the point?
Many people follow that ancient tradition of making resolutions around January to evaluate and reflect on the past year and "promise" to make changes. I elect not to wait until January 1 to address my issues and concerns . . . I deal with them everyday. I used to be one of those millions who spend time recalling the past 365 days in the course of 24 hours. Do we ever make adjustments? Do we actually have the time? Remember, we are so busy. Before we blink an eye, the new year is rollin' along and we never deal with the past issues. Instead, I have discovered that we should live in the moment, dealing with life everyday as life and those nagging issues arise. I cherish each moment in time and try not to follow the pop culture trends. . . "Life is short." Really? It is if you believe it is.
Did you know? A New Year's resolution is a tradition, most common in the West but found around the world, in which a person makes a promise on New Year’s Eve to make certain changes or self-improvements in the year ahead. It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year's resolutions around 4,000 years ago, and people all over the world have been breaking them ever since! Read more: http://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-news-general/ancient-history-new-year-s-resolutions-001185#ixzz3qvR857nM
Interesting! Let's return to that word . . . Integrity.
At the start of the year, a colleague of mine and I made a commitment to publish a magazine with the intention of featuring micro small business owners who self produce a variety of products. The magazine, OrganicMind, was created to highlight renowned visual artists, book authors, clothiers, jewelry designers, ceramists, sculptors and other designers. The publication would also offer helpful information and advice about healthy foods, methods of caring for the body and more. Well, as I suggested above, things happen in life. However, I am a woman of integrity and I do follow through on my commitments -- sooner or later. Life may toss me a boulder from time to time, but I will circle back and honor my commitment. If I do not, no one would believe or maintain their trust in me. So, in lieu of presenting the magazine in a traditional format (paper), I will honor the individuals who spent their valuable time preparing articles for the magazine and share them via blog. So, stay tuned! There is more to come!
Meanwhile, please indulge me as I will use this time to reflect on the past seven (7) years; placing a microscope on the past 2 years. Whew! And what a journey! Valuable lessons have been learned, specifically about humans, a.k.a. people. First and foremost, I am deeply committed to God, self and community (family being a huge part of my community) . . . I try to be ethical, faithful, steadfast, endure long suffering and live my life as revealed in Luke 16:10. Most people are not aware that this verse pertains to money. Believe me, the past several years have been a true test of how I have had to manage funds. I thought I was great at managing money, but the true test is managing a little bit of money. Thank goodness, I know within my heart that God's love and grace have sustained me through the valley and deep waters.
Did you know? A New Year's resolution is a tradition, most common in the West but found around the world, in which a person makes a promise on New Year’s Eve to make certain changes or self-improvements in the year ahead. It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year's resolutions around 4,000 years ago, and people all over the world have been breaking them ever since! Read more: http://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-news-general/ancient-history-new-year-s-resolutions-001185#ixzz3qvR857nM
Interesting! Let's return to that word . . . Integrity.
At the start of the year, a colleague of mine and I made a commitment to publish a magazine with the intention of featuring micro small business owners who self produce a variety of products. The magazine, OrganicMind, was created to highlight renowned visual artists, book authors, clothiers, jewelry designers, ceramists, sculptors and other designers. The publication would also offer helpful information and advice about healthy foods, methods of caring for the body and more. Well, as I suggested above, things happen in life. However, I am a woman of integrity and I do follow through on my commitments -- sooner or later. Life may toss me a boulder from time to time, but I will circle back and honor my commitment. If I do not, no one would believe or maintain their trust in me. So, in lieu of presenting the magazine in a traditional format (paper), I will honor the individuals who spent their valuable time preparing articles for the magazine and share them via blog. So, stay tuned! There is more to come!Meanwhile, please indulge me as I will use this time to reflect on the past seven (7) years; placing a microscope on the past 2 years. Whew! And what a journey! Valuable lessons have been learned, specifically about humans, a.k.a. people. First and foremost, I am deeply committed to God, self and community (family being a huge part of my community) . . . I try to be ethical, faithful, steadfast, endure long suffering and live my life as revealed in Luke 16:10. Most people are not aware that this verse pertains to money. Believe me, the past several years have been a true test of how I have had to manage funds. I thought I was great at managing money, but the true test is managing a little bit of money. Thank goodness, I know within my heart that God's love and grace have sustained me through the valley and deep waters.
As a self professed "multi-dimensional vessel," folks who hang around me long enough discover a plethora of experiences, talents, gifts, dreams and desires. Living in my mind is not an easy task; sometimes I have to convince me to slow down from time to time! Possessing a deep commitment to other people, I work hard to remain faithful. I suppose it is due to my belief that God will see me through the best and the worst of times -- did I mention, my journey has been very rocky!
And speaking of the tension between the best and worst of times . . . Out of the blue while sitting in Starbucks working, I had the pleasure of meeting Rev. Niki Tshibaka who took the time to share and listen to my concerns . . . Discerning my troubled spirit he took the time to pray for me. As I listened, I felt God's presence embrace and surround me. Rev. Tshibaka stated that my story fit right in the book of Judges, Chapter 6 verses1-12. And so it does.
Most people are not aware that my personal and professional circumstances have been affected adversely because of the decisions people made and did not consider their decisions had impacted my life and subsequently onto others. However, aligning my footsteps to those of God's word, I am convinced my life has mirrored the life of Job. When you read Job's story, you will discover that Job lost a lot; but he remained faithful to God. It is important that we remind ourselves, if we are not aware, that we should not use "popular" cliches and snatch quotes because they are convenient and may define a hardship. Instead, let us remove the blinders from our eyes to reveal the realities that we need to embrace self, our loved ones and society with honesty, compassion and love. If a person has suffered a loss it does not mean another person's suffering is the same. Kick that "been there, done that" cliche to the curb! It does not help anyone. At most, it is very insensitive!
"Comparison is the thief of joy." Theodore Roosevelt
Fortunately, I have learned that some times all of life's instances must not be taken too seriously; but we must be thoughtful enough to understand that God prepares and equips us with sufficient experiences to help us navigate various paths. Without a doubt, God also places the right people in our lives at the right time. We recognize their value and appropriateness in our lives when those individuals possess the tools and resources to help guide us through the tough times.
Remember: God is sovereign and always in control. Look up at the sky and admire!
As we witness the days, months and decades pass by, changes in the fabric of life cause us to manage things differently, especially with the quick advancements in technology. The tech age definitely encourages humans to approach life in ways that are new and exciting! If used properly.
As we witness the days, months and decades pass by, changes in the fabric of life cause us to manage things differently, especially with the quick advancements in technology. The tech age definitely encourages humans to approach life in ways that are new and exciting! If used properly.
Crowdfunding!
A new spin on fund raising is on the rise!
Got a Cause? Did you know! According to Marketing Moxie Biz, as of 2012, over 530 crowdfunding platforms are on the Internet! http://marketingmoxie.biz/the-big-list-of-crowdfunding-sites/
Well, DID YOU KNOW, I too have a few viable causes . . . DestinationCubaPPLLC!, "A Voice: The Color of Mental Illness", Cyber Security in the Church, Health, Wellness and Wholeness and a few others! As I've mentioned above, there is not a lack of desires or dreams and all of my causes are attainable with your help and support! Here's the backstory . . .
One month ago, a few folks were thinking of ways to help place my life and business upright. Loved ones, friends and colleagues encouraged me to launch a GoFundMe Campaign. Although my goal may seem lofty to some, it's truly small compared to some of the campaigns I read. Man! Millions of dollars have been raised for all types of causes.
Without a doubt, I am deeply appreciative to the friends and colleagues who have contributed to the cause thus far! So, if you are reading this blog and are considering/planning to make a donation I welcome you to take a moment to explore the initiative . . . DestinationCubaPPLLC! And I don't have a problem if you share widely and deeply! The cause(s) are worthy! Take a moment, cut and past the link below . . .
https://www.gofundme.com/x34e3twk
Feel free to send a note, make a comment and of course, make your contribution today. It is tax deductible . . . The funds are donated to my ministry, Hannah's Grace, Inc. 501(c)3.
Thank you for your thoughtfulness and remember, keep your eyes open for the upcoming news!
Rev. Phyllicia
Founder and President
301-910-8076 Mobile
DestinationCubaPPLLC@gmail.com
(Photos and images on Google and by yours truly!)
Thank you for your thoughtfulness and remember, keep your eyes open for the upcoming news!
Rev. Phyllicia
Founder and President
301-910-8076 Mobile
DestinationCubaPPLLC@gmail.com
(Photos and images on Google and by yours truly!)
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