Just Me Magazine - April 2017

JUST ME MAGAZINE You don't have to be a celebrity to be a star!

Third Eye Photography

Guest Writer Lady TJ

New Column

Dr. Curt #YouAreYourOwnSoulution

ONE SIZE

Star of the Month

FITS ALL

Sherard Sharpe

THE B-SIDE APRIL 2017

Third Eye Coy Photography

03 The B-Side 06 Dr. Curt 08 Guest Writer 10 Fine The Way I Am 11 He Said, She Said 12 Journey To Wholeness 14 Star of The Month 16 Let's Support Our Own 18 Who's Nu?

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One Size Fits All

I was conversing with one of my friends yesterday evening about a prayer march that had taken place in Chicago earlier that day. I don’t have anything against prayer marches or gatherings because I understand they can be an individual or collective healing experience along with being therapeutic activity for many. They can help foster peace of mind among the participants and victims. These marches can also raise awareness and broadcast the voices of the community letting it’s violent transgressors know that their acts of unfocused, misdirected aggression will not be tolerated. Prayer is a viable piece of the puzzle for some.

At the prayer rally, my guy mentioned to me that he saw a sign that read as follows, “Real Men Get On Their Knees”. Yeah, I realize this statement could be taken a number of ways, but we’ll keep it above board. What the statement suggest to me is that real men pray to gods. As a corollary, it also suggest that men who don’t, aren’t “real men”. I’ve seen various memes on social networks that suggest the same. It’s generally easy for me to ignore these toxic messages because what people post is always subject to their own perspectives, experiences, or beliefs. Apparently, a significant number of Black women believe that a Black man isn’t a “real man” unless he subscribes to the existence of or conversations with gods.

Is this healthy?

Black people are Christians, Muslims, Jews, African Orthodox, Catholic, Rastafarians, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hindus, Buddhists, Seventh Day Adventists, Humanists, and any number of other religions we were introduced to as direct or indirect result of forced or unforced cultural diffusion. As mostly natives of West Africa, we did not subscribe to any of these religions prior to them being gifted to us as part of that Americanization/assimilation welcoming trick bag passed off as a gift bag. Christianity existed in pockets of East Africa for eons prior to the Middle Passage as the direct result of it being brought to the area by invaders from across the Red Sea. The same can be said for Islam, as Arabs delivered the religion to Africans from East Africa, through North Africa, and across to West Africa.

According to a 2007 Study: “Many scholars estimate that 15-30% of Africans imported as slaves were Muslim. The majority of the remaining practiced indigenous forms of worship. All were converted to Christianity. Most became Baptist although slaves from Louisiana became Catholic because of the French settlers in that area. Today 83% of African Americans are Christian, and only 1% identify themselves as Muslim.”

So Africans became most of these things AFTER colonization and enslavement. Neither colonization or enslavement are strictly limited to the physical. The African’s “operating system” had to be erased in order for that strong African man or woman to be suitable for forced labor. A new African had to be created, an African who saw the White man as no less than the messenger of a god, if not a god himself. That new African needed to be saddled with a healthy amount of fear, a fear of upsetting the White god and a fear of going to an imaginary place called hell. This new African had to come to believe that his/her forced servitude was ordained by a god and that their oppression was simply part of a grand plan, the sacrifice of suffering. The sadistic methods of our captors achieved great and long-lasting success. Today, 83% of Africans in America, as mentioned above, identify themselves as Christians. It took centuries in that oven of oppression to bake what exists today as the Black man and woman, cooked thoroughly through to the core, no longer identifying with Africa in many cases, more in common with the actual White racists. Stockholm Syndrome is us.

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Reality is, we are not born with any of these attachments. We have to be indoctrinated into them which means, from birth, we have old and ancient beliefs installed into us which are not to be questioned. If grandma and granddad were Christians, and they made mom and dad Christians, then we, as children, were to automatically assume the same. As a result, our thinking remains the same, European operating system intact. Quality contextualization is that there were generations of us born on plantations who were terrified of the prospect of leaving them. The grandparents and parents instilled in the children an unhealthy fear that rendered them allergic to freedom. The plantation was home, master and family were custodial parents. They provided all basic needs, and there was nothing worthwhile beyond the threshold of the plantation’s gates. We were taught to feel “blessed” to be so fortunate, a misfortune fostered and cultivated through fear. However, there were always a few “rebel rousers” who didn’t quite adapt to master’s version of freedom or his wholesome hostility. SHANGO was ready to GO. There were always those who were scheming to get off those plantations, unafraid of the unknown, but fully aware that what existed as life for them wasn’t as it should be. The ability to read precipitated much of that rebelliousness, along with common sense, and an unyielding desire to be free.

Evolution is inevitable, and eventually, more and more Africans began to rebel, wreaking havoc on the entire South, stories we seldom hear about. But imagine if we all simply adhered to what was told to us from previous generations and didn’t bother to do the legwork, asking those questions, quenching what comes natural as curiosity.

Most of our marches today are against the violent behaviors too many of our children have adopted due to societal sickness: poverty, disenfranchisement, poor mental and physical health exacerbated by food deserts and the lack of access, schools that disengage, negative, toxic, and degrading media, and politicians and public policies that craft the contrived reality that exist for many Black people in America. We also march against genocide and discrimination.

Do we discriminate against and divide amongst ourselves?

Not all Black people subscribe to religions which incorporate a belief in “sky daddies”. There are Africans who choose to not subscribe to any of them. They are known as agnostics or atheists. Agnostics doubt the existence of gods, and atheists simply do not believe in gods. I am an atheist who is a humanist in many aspects. I do not believe in gods and I strive to be the best possible human being I can, on purpose and with purpose. I believe NATURE (NTR) to be the higher and highest power. Nature is universal balance, it is sustaining, and it is the provider of all. Nature is tangible, I can see, hear, taste, feel, and embrace it and all it’s wonderment. Most importantly, nature features the SUN at it’s pinnacle. Without the SUN, there is no life. The most ancient spiritual systems subscribe to the notion of the SUN as a main principle. Many religions came on-board later and misconstrued the SUN to mean a SON, or they simply changed its meaning to suit their own cultural beliefs. Heru, an Egyptian principle or god, represents the SUN. I’ve done substantial research on the subject as a teacher of history, but I encourage others to do the same to see what you discover or uncover. One of the many reasons I cannot subscribe to the existence of gods or a God is because I’m quite certain a god of us would not be a spectator to what is offered as life for the vast majority of the world. While a relative few greedily prosper, the rest of the world suffers either physically, socially, or economically. Being in America gives us such a narrow view of the reality of so many. Life for the majority in the U.S. isn’t quite par either, it’s far from what one would consider paradise, an economy bolstered by the exploitation of poor people domestically and abroad. Black people in America remain the most religious group among all ethnicities, yet suffer the most from carefully constructed inequality. No, I can’t fathom praying to a god that would bear witness to what exist and have no reaction, and my lifespan does not allow me the privilege of waiting for a god’s return to fix our very real problems. Lastly, many religions, especially Christianity, socialize its participants to embrace individualism and prosperity as key tenets. They see themselves as “blessed and favored” based on material gains, possessions, and fortunate situations, while ignoring the plight of many when it comes time to give praise. I’ve often noticed how a god is acknowledged when “good” occurs, but not spoken of when “bad” happens, beyond praying that a god fixes it. No judgment, but if I see a person drowning or burning, it is me who will save that person. It will be me who dives into or fetches water . .unless they’d rather me just pray, and stay dry. What would I look like standing there praying for help? If someone callously kills a member of my family, the judgment and execution will come from me. I won’t have a prayer for that person. I will not ask a god to forgive that person. Praying after such egregious acts kind of leaves the impression that it’s ok to keep attacking, to keep killing, and to keep oppressing. Solely praying only opens the door for a person or people to continuously be preyed upon, there’s zero incentive for the antagonists to stop. If I’m your friend and someone walks up and punches you in the mouth, do you want me to pray or do you want me to muscle up? Here we are though.

Are we divided on too many fronts to solidify our families and communities?

I am 100% certain that as many African women or men are reading this, they are shuddering at the thought of a Black man who doesn’t look to the skies for answers and they are already conjuring up those adjectives; crazy, foolish, and confused. I’m actually very clear. My thoughts are completely lucid, and I work actively to evolve my thoughts through constant reading and research, through introspection, and continuously entertaining other perspectives, never settling for what I think I know. The sad part is, many of our people, especially some of our sisters, do not find suitable mates in Black men who don’t subscribe to religions or gods, as if a man is incomplete without these beliefs. They will not embark on a relationship with, and, as evidenced, are active in judging and ostracizing them as well for not accepting what they accept and perceive as direction.

Crazy thing is, I don’t judge or seek to ostracize religious Africans for believing as they do. I understand clearly why they believe and the roots of their beliefs. I come from a family that is 99% Christian, with that 1% probably containing just me and one cousin. At the end of the day, we’re ALL Africans and that is the sole reason why we are oppressed, not because we’re Christians, not because we’re Islamic, or any other denomination. Malcolm said it best, keep your religious beliefs in the closet when it comes time for us to assemble for the common good, to grow as a collective. There is no place for any divisive energy in Black Nationalism, a philosophy we all should be adhering to in order to truly heal as a whole. I don’t see crucifixes when it’s time to fix this, not until someone asks that I drop to my knees to speak with a god to ask him/her to help us. From my vantage, we have all we need. It’s a matter of mental and spiritual elevation, organization, and re-allocation of our vast resources. Just a quick note, about a half-trillion of our dollars go into church collection baskets each year.

Are “free-thinkers” persecuted among Africans?

As an African male, I unfortunately have to say yes. I’ve seen and lived it. I’ve seen many a relationship or potential courting situation go south due to my refusal to acknowledge the existence of gods. I’ve lived it in Chicago, I’ve gone through it in D.C., and I’m feeling it here in Dallas. If you don’t outwardly profess to be a man who fears gods, you are stained immediately as an undesirable. There isn’t much room to move around Black social circles for the Black man who doesn’t

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con. mind challenging or questioning established Black norms. Critical thought and curiosity that constantly questions and doesn’t reinforce ancient beliefs and practices is frowned upon. Optimism is knowing there are plenty of Black women walking the same path as myself. That doesn’t mean we’re “equally yolked” automatically, but I’m reasonably assured that the Afro-Centered sister isn’t a rare and magical unicorn. They are plenty, we “outcasts” just have to be patient. In the meantime, you best believe I won’t be unwelcoming of my African sisters to any political or social activism I partake in, or any personal relationship I can envision us in, based solely on what they believe in regards to gods. We cannot reach each other if we’re unwilling to teach each other. We will not grow if we, as men and women, no longer yearn to learn from one another, and we’ll never catch our collective stride, if we continue to fuel divide.

We are African before anything else.

ONE love, truly. *

status KNO Creativity Consciousness LOVE www.statusKNO.com Photo Credit: Christopher Wilson Photography www.1815photography.cm

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If You Can’t Be Together, Can You At Least Minimize the Hurt?

5-Steps To Co-Exist After A Breakup We or they are not bad, evil, incompetent or inadequate when the relationship ends. Not. Necessarily. The very measure of a good relationship is usually determined by how much it encourages intellectual, emotional, mental and spiritual growth. Therefore, if our relationship becomes destructive, dangerous, depressing, lacks growth and development, demoralizes or causes us to chip away at our human dignity, it’s been time to end it! We aren’t for everyone and everyone is definitely not for us. However, not all breakups are considered failed relationships.

So, the real question becomes, how do we or can we minimize the hurt and find a way to co-exist. I don’t mean co-exist with your previous mate, necessarily. I mean on earth! In life! In new relationships, with new partners! Within! Without! Emotionally. Mentally. Spiritually? How do you exist and how do you support a space for new partners to exist?

For many of us, this is NOT an easy task. Any significant relationship that ends causes discomfort of some kind. For most of us relationships are a major source of daily stimulation, curiosity, eagerness, adventure, support, love and openness. We all can agree that relationships do matter and that intimacy is necessary to sustain a good, fulfilling, happy, productive life. A loving touch, interactions of laughter, silence and tons of other highly needed stimuli brings physical, psychological and mental wellness.

There simply is no BEing or Becoming without relationships. In a real sense, we all spend our entire existence interweaving one relationship into another until we ultimately catch ourselves up in giant webs.

After a breakup, how do you exist and how do you support a space for new partners to exist?

Lots of us have learned, from experience, that our inability and/or refusal to live in harmony after a break-up has been responsible for some of our greatest fears, phobias, anxieties, feelings of sadness, anger, other failed relationships, resentment, isolation and in some cases, mental illness.

Again, after a breakup, how do you exist and how do you support a space for new partners to exist?

Here are 5-Steps that I’ve found to help co-exist after a break-up. The steps are not designed to go in any particular order but they must be at least addressed and considered. But first, before we delve into this short list, do understand that I am only referring to relationships which have ended with some amount of pain due to the breakup and not necessarily dangerous, domestically violent, abusive or extreme drama-filled break-ups which have cause significant suffering. Nope.

Not. At. All. Although some of these approaches may work, in this account, I’m referring to those relationships which have just ran its course and both parties have, maybe not initially, but eventually decided to part ways. Extreme breakup circumstances with violence and abuse WILL definitely require some serious support services and healing. We’ll discuss that during another submission. For now, please take a read and let me know what ya think. Love. Light.

Peace&Power.

Step #1- Watch your words!

For each word we use to describe our relationships and the break-up of those relationships, we also attach emotional meaning and content to them. This is how we feel about what our words represent to us. Watch your words. Choose. Wisely. The words we use determine our belief system and our actions. You gotta be careful about the words you use and not have them use you! Wellness comes from within and communicated love and warmth helps bring it forth.

Step #2- Respect Silence!

Alternatives for problem solving, creativity, thinking, strategizing, remembering, moving forward, as well as your spiritual, mental and emotional needs are most often realized and heard loud and clear during moments of silence. Spend time, regularly, in total silence.

Step #3- Be honest and truthful!

Dishonesty is one of the primary determinants of a failed relationship that leads to a break up. Now that the relationship has ended, it’s really time to get honest with yourself about your role in its entirety and be truthful of all of your contributions to the relationship both good and bad. A healthy, lasting relationship must be based on honesty and truth. If you’re looking to the future for a fulfilling relationship, now would be the time to get straight with yourself about your last one!

Step #4- Determine if you were loving under certain conditions!

Love doesn’t supposed to keep a record of wrongs. Easier said than done, I get it! We all have a need to learn from our wrongs and other’s wrong-doings allow us to ultimately become wiser. Let the wrongs go and move forward. Unless you were, at any point during the relationship, unable to forgive and forget the past, you’ve never been truly free of its power to reawaken the hate and pain that those past wrongdoings have caused. When a new wrong erupted, all the previous ones re-surfaced. Were you loving only under certain conditions, disguising your overall hurt, hate, anger and pain?

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Step #5- Forgive! It’s an act of will!

Forgiveness is a choice. You either choose to forgive or you don’t. But you gotta remind yourself that to be forgiven and to forgive both involve the same dynamics. If you ever hope to be forgiven for your wrongdoings, then you must do the same. If you are unable to forgive others, then you cannot expect others to forgive you. The price you pay for NOT forgiving is too high.

Forgive yourself. Love yourself. Design a Self-Care routine, ritual and lifestyle. Learn from your past relationships and live happily ever after! You can do it! It’s a must! #YouAreYourOwnSOULution #WhatHurtsTodayWorksTomorrow Dr. Curt coaches, counsels & consults with people toward their own greatness using Passion, Power, Purpose & Presence. He’s also an Author | Counselor | Speaker | Entrepreneur.

Office: 770.885.2009 Fax: 888.414.6033 Email: drcurtisdjasper@gmail.com Websites- www.youareyourownsoulution.com Facebook- Dr. Curtis D. Jasper Twitter- @DrCurtisDJasper Instagram-@IAMDr.Curt

www.YouAreYourOwnSOULution.com

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Po-lyg-a-my /pe' noun

Need vs. Greed Lady TJ

Polygamy involves marriage of more than one spouse. (Wikipedia) When a man is married to more than one wife at a time, it is called polygyny. When a woman is married to more than one husband at a time, it is called polyandry. If a marriage includes multiple husbands and wives, it can be called a group marriage (Wikipedia) Bigamy /big noun In a controversial world, When a man is married to more than one woman he is called a king. a stud, or a hero. When a woman is married to more than one man, she is called a whore, a thot, a huzzy or a trick. And when several people are all involved together, it is called a damn shame. (LadyTJ) The lines have become so blurred in today's society around what is acceptable when it comes to the behavior of men and women that I often find myself asking the question, "Is this stuff really based on individual Needs or are they based on simple greed."It never ceases to amaze me how there seem to be two totally different standards when it comes to men and women and the same behavior.

When a man goes out with five different women, he is considered just dating or maybe even just keeping his options open, but if a woman does the exact same thing she is instantly assumed to be a slut " someone loses, or someone with no respect or standards for themselves." Even if she is not sleeping with anyone of them and is just simply dating she is still labeled. It appears that society is perfectly fine with men being sexually free to do whatever they choose, but a woman, on the other hand, must remain on her pedestal. As women we are not allowed to be what is considered overly sexually expressive and if we are it better be in a movie or a music video. Otherwise, you are labeled and have to wear the letter of shame.

Now, let's get into the real issue. Need vs. Greed. Why is it that many men seem to feel as though they need so many different women? They often say things like, Man I need somebody that can burn in the kitchen; I need another one that I can just chill with; and the world famous quote, I need a good girl that I can take home to momma, and I need another girl, that's a freak". Someone, please tell me, is this really needed? Or is it simply greed?

Are these the needs of a grown man, or just the desire of a little boy trying to play in a grown ups world? Let's dissect the thought process from a woman's point of view. This woman, the one that is writing this controversial issue.

As a woman I look at it like this, If you are a man and you have more than one woman, that is certainly fine, as long as you are honest with everyone involved.

I have no problem with anyone "doing you" no matter how far they spread themselves. Just so long as you keep it clean and classy. But what I do have a problem with is when a man gets into a relationship, ensures his mate that he is in a monogamous relationship and then runs around outside of that relationship. Using the excuse, "You know I can't help it, I"m a man." No, you are not a man. You are a boy. A greedy little boy. Who has no concept of how to be a man, a man who is honest. He is man enough, or honest enough to tell his woman when he is ready to move on. He isn't afraid of the possibility of missing out on what he has to move on to what he wants. He respects himself enough to not compromise his integrity by being greedy due to the inability to settle for just one. He knows that a woman's heart is one of the most precious gifts that a man can receive and he needs it to elevate him to his next level in life vs. him feeling as though he needs many with the lack of understanding that those many will lead to self-destruction eventually. A boy and his greed will come into a woman's life and turn her world upside down and not even see the destruction until the damage is done. A boy will try his most damn to convince his partner that it is their fault that they are cheating on them. He will tell them that if they cooked better, that they would not have cheated, or if they gave better sex that they wouldn't have strayed. A boy will have his partner feeling like they are less than just so they can feel more than.

I guess what I am trying to say is that a real man understands that he needs a good partner. Not in the sense that they can't make it without them, but that they don't want to because they understand that life would be so much more successful with them by their side. They understand that a helpmate is just that.

Someone that will help them to get to the next level.

So, Now that you have had the chance to process some of my views on the subject of Need vs. Greed, let's talk about some of the views others have voiced.

La Kisha from Brooklyn, New York says " Honestly I believe it's a need..... I am easily bored but I love him something bad, so I am every woman, wigs, and outfits to match. Gotta Keep it spontaneous!"

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Me: So La Kisha, What do you think is the need?

La Kisha: Variety.

Jennifer from Edmonton, Alberta says " Greed. It depends on how I feel about the person(s). I need one partner (like I need to eat). But I agree that multiple partners can be a fun indulgence (like chocolate)".

Me: So Jennifer, are you saying that you only need one partner, but if the relationship isn't all you need it to be then you are all for being greedy and indulging?

Jennifer: Yes! If I have a strong attachment to the person.....I'm not sharing.... If it's not, then a bit of variety is nice Gloria from Tanauan, Batangas, Phillippines says, "Greed because we should have only one partner in our life. Having multiple partners is no longer needed.

It is in the bible. I mean it is in the ten commandments".

Me: But didn't men have many wives and partners in the Bible, and doesn't the ten commandments say "thou shall not commit adultery"? No reference to if both parties are single. Do you think it's the same thing for married or single individuals?

Crystal, from Hampton, Virginia says, "Personally I feel it's greed....that one partner should be enough and if you're not satisfied you should tell your partner what you want. Just be honest.

Me: So what do you think causes an individual to be greedy?

Crystal: Same as always, a lustful spirit.

Crystal: In response to your previous question to Gloria regarding men having many wives, sure they did, but things changed when the laws changed.... The adversary came in and perverted the unity of marriage which led to diseases, (sexual) causing stillbirth, sterilizations, and miscarriages. This type of greed is against the body and has a domino effect. That's my viewpoint. But really in the long run males or females don't want a partner who is looking elsewhere.

Corey, from Hampton, Virginia says "It depends on the people and what they're both looking for." I think love vs. physical attraction and fantasy has a lot to do with it. When you are all in love with someone, and you choose to make them your life partner, that's what they are; someone you don't see your life without.

Now admittedly that person may not fulfill every single thing on your attraction list or fulfill all of your fantasies, but some couples love and care about each other enough to allow their partner to live out those fantasies because they want them to be happy. That takes a lot of relationship security, though.

William, from Columbia, Maryland says " It's conditioned....via the culture. There are ONLY five actual needs....Self-actualization, Esteem, Love/Belonging, Safety, and Physiological. Everything else is desire.

So, as you can tell, everyone has their own personal opinion about whether having multiple partners is being greedy or just being needy.

I say if you go to the buffet and fill your plate up too full then try to eat it all, you are bound to suffer the consequences. Whether it's a stomach ache, a headache, or a trip to the emergency room, you better believe there will be consequences. Sure it may taste good, and the thrill of having unlimited choices is appealing. Yeah, you can always deny how much you had, you may even go so far as to lie and say you were never there, but when it is time for the Shiz Nick to come out you better believe it's going to stink. And I know every one of my reader's parents has told them to "Stop being greedy."

Greed is a terrible thing, but what a person will do when they feel they are in need is just as dangerous!

This is Lady TJ signing off in the Controversial Corner.

www.FreedomTies.com

Let's Talk Wome To Women Radio Show Every Saturday at 11am IntellectualRadio.com

3 Ways to Style Your Little Black Dress One item that is mandatory in every woman's closet is a multi-purpose black dress. You can dress it up and you can dress it down. A black dress can easily transition from daytime at the office, to a night out on the town. If you're in need of some new ideas for your black dress, you're in luck! Here are 3 ways to style your little black dress.

1) First look, the black dress is paired with a thick cable grey cardigan. The warm sweater is accessorized with a black Chanel brooch and black pumps. This day time look is perfect for work or a business meeting. What a great way to brighten it up with a hot pink lip!

2) Second look, the black dress is paired with a loose beige coat and pointed toe booties. This can easily be worn almost anywhere. Like an afternoon out for great mimosas with the girls. This look is simple yet fashionable!

3) Third and final look, this black dress is paired with a creased hooded butter yellow poncho. This dress easily transitioned into a long pencil skirt. This look is very chic and stylish. You can make it sexy with the red nail polish and lip stick.

The lace up stilettos completes the look!

3 Stylish Looks for the Workplace! Spring is finally here. Are you tired of the same navy blue, black, and brown? Well let's spring forward and brighten it up in the workplace! Here are 3 stylish looks that will have your coworkers turning their heads.

1) Dare to be different! This first look is not your average work outfit. How fun are these floral print army green cropped pants, balancing it out with this super cute bow top. The cap sleeves make it sexy but appropriate for the office. The gold sandal heels make the look even more chic! What a fun way to top it off with the Metallic plus purple liquid lipstick!

2) If you can't resist the urge to wear navy blue, this bi-stretch silk top with white cropped pants is perfect for the work place. The red lipstick brings a pop to the whole look, accessorizing with all grey heels and bag.

3) This final look is very chic. This is perfect for a CEO. You rock this style and you automatically feel like a boss! This White cross-front bodysuit blouse goes perfectly with these nude silk-lined wide leg pants. A gold pump to complete the look keeps the workplace fun.

Who said walking to the coffee machine couldn't be your own personal runway!

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Learn to Meditate Meditation is your direct connection to peace, prosperity and guidance.

During these tumultuous times of discord and uncertainty, it is imperative that we begin to use our personal power and talents for the happiness and peace of ourselves and everyone connected us. We can no longer depend upon external forces or people to validate, celebrate, or elevate us to achieve the happiness we desire. There is one sure proof way to get the happiness, love, clarity, peace, and abundance we desire and that’s by going within through meditation.

What is Meditation?

Meditation is a technique for resting the mind. It is the stillness and space in between our thoughts that allows us to go beyond the mind and tap into the true essence of our spiritual being which is peace, happiness and bliss. It allows us to find true inner peace. It is not a religious practice or tied to any particular religion.

What are some of the Myths about meditation?

There are many myths and beliefs about meditation that are not based in truth. Many of these myths prevent us from experiencing all the amazing health and wellness benefits this practice provides. Below are a few myths about the practice of meditation. If any are on your list scratch them off and begin to cultivate your own personal meditation practice.

• Meditation is difficult • You have to quiet your mind to be successful (find an object to draw awareness to if the mind begins to wander) example ocean • It takes years of practice to receive benefits • Meditation is escapism (you are not tuning out, you are tuning in) • I don’t have enough time • Meditation requires spiritual or religious beliefs • I’m supposed to have transcendent experiences in meditation (visions, colors, angels, enlightenment etc.)

What are the basic forms of Meditation?

There are many paths to the end goal of meditation. One size doesn’t fit all. Below are a few methods for beginning your meditation practice. Experiment with each approach to determine which one works best for you.

Guided Meditation – Led by someone else or a recording. It is facilitated through breath, visualization etc. The benefit, is that you can meditate without creating the words and protocols. You have someone there to guide you through the process.

Visualization Meditation – Visualize what you want to manifest or achieve, see yourself as having the experience you desire.

Mantra Meditation - “Mind instrument” or “Vehicle” to help you focus. Repeat a word or phrase for the duration of the meditation. Mantra is focal point. Example: I AM; Love; OM Breath Awareness Meditation - Find a comfortable seat, close your eyes, and focus on breathing (in-hale/Exhale) 4 Easy Steps to Start Your Meditation Practice 1. Find a comfortable quiet place, sit comfortably with hands in lap, palms facing up or down. You can also do a meditation laying down but not before bed.

advisable

2. Close your eyes and take 3 Deep Full Breaths to Center your Mind and Body (in through nose, out through mouth).

3. Draw your awareness to your breath. Only focus on your breathing. If you get distracted go back to your awareness of your breath. Breathe simple and easy.

Don’t fight your thoughts. Allow them to flow freely and they will subside.

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4. Do this for 5 Minutes Every Day for a Week, then and 5 more minutes each week.

Incorporating a daily meditation practice into your life, will result in limitless benefits for your mind, body and spirit. It is your own personal power to create a life of peace, happiness, healing and wellness.

• Just Do It! Make it a priority • Remove false expectations • Create a ritual – first thing in the morning, before bed, at lunch, in the car etc.

• Practice, Practice, Practice • Engage in activities that fosters meditation – Yoga, Qi Gong, Walking, Stillness If you are interested in learning more about meditation or attending a guided meditation practice, the Journey to Wholeness Center facilitates a guided meditation workshop twice a month, every other Sunday. Please check our website for details: www.journeytowholeness.org.

Kimberly J. Davis is the founder & owner of the Journey to Wholeness Center, a holistic healing and wellness center located in Oak Lawn IL.

Sherard...Chicago, NYC, Atlanta and LA’s to Models, Motivational Speakers, and Entertainers! A current sought after TV Host of "The SHERARD Show," began his career 1997 after watching an episode of the hit TV show VIBE with his mom featuring Super Model, Tyson Beckford. The next day, he grabbed his potential, and headed for a casting call with Aria Modeling Agency and the rest is history.

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Sherard...Chicago, NYC, Atlanta and LA’s to Models, Motivational Speakers, and Entertainers! A current sought after TV Host of "The SHERARD Show," began his career 1997 after watching an episode of the hit TV show VIBE with his mom featuring Super Model, Tyson Beckford. The next day, he grabbed his potential, and headed for a casting call with Aria Modeling Agency and the rest is history.

With over 16 years' experience as a full-time in several key fashion cities, he has managed to maintain his career as a very debonair, seasoned, handsome and well knowledgeable fashion model, coach and entertainment professional. His Fashion Resume is extensive having modeled for major Ethnic hair care brands such as Vital, Luster, Motions and the Duke Hair brand. A former Owner of International Models, Inc., a Chicago modeling agency he and a friend formed. Sherard proved successful in teaching runway, portfolio management, and career management to young aspiring models. Sherard has been blessed over the years to participate in the fashion industry via many outlets from modeling for VIBE, acting in shoe commercials, creating his own fashion fragrance for men and women currently on the market, becoming a mastermind behind a fashion app for the iPhone and Author of his book? The Fashion Bible" currently offered via www.amazon.com. The book dedicated to helping aspiring models succeed in the industry touches on several key subjects such as barriers like stereotypes and norms. That cater to a particular ethnicity and gender in the fashion industry Sherard says, "Often time, models, feel like they have to fit in a very small box, to even be remotely considered as a model and these are things I address in my book, "The Fashion Bible."

Sherard, having already accomplished so much since his early career days, refuses to say goodbye to the world of fashion.

As the former host of the 2009 TV show entitled, "The Scent of Fashion Show" a show which served as an outlet to expose the talent of models, actors, etc. as well as meet those who have made it in the industry. Sherard has been quoted saying, "I got into modeling because I believed I had what it took to be successful, and I wanted to showcase what people always told me I had." Today, he helps to do just that with his recently launched TV show named after him, "The Sherard Show" which features "Cutting Edge Fashion Beauty and Entertainment news. You can find him in LA, Atlanta, and New York among a few places interviewing everyone from celebrities on the Red Carpet, the Grammy's or seen chatting with artist such as Ray J, R. Kelly, The Impressions, Legendary Jerry Bell to name a few.

For more information about how to book Sherard and be interviewed on "The SHERARD Show" contact...

Lynn Orman-Weiss PR Representative (847) 452-6469 ormanmusic@gmail.com www.thesherardshow.com

Contact us for...

(708) 580-6122

The Doctor is In Stephanie E. Wilson-Coleman Founder & CEO, The Champagne Connection, Inc. TV Show Host, Author, Success Mindset Mentor & Transformational Specialist, Motivational Speaker Everybody has a story. But not everyone has a story to tell. Stephanie E. Wilson-Coleman’s life narrative is a testament that anyone can have a story worth telling.

Like every hero, Stephanie Wilson-Coleman, the “straight no chaser” Empowerment Doctor, was born out of necessity. Her story is filled with conflict, villains, roadblocks, moral dilemmas and spiritual awakenings.

Stephanie’s story began in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she graduated at the top of her class at the historic Little Rock Central High School. This she managed to do despite becoming a mother at 15, experiencing sexual abuse and molestation and attending high school in the midst of intense racial tension. She beat the odds. In 1988, an accident caused Stephanie to suffer a basal skull fracture from which the doctors predicted she would not recover. She beat the odds. In 1996, Stephanie, a victim of corporate downsizing, was left in financial ruin, which resulted in being temporarily homeless. Again, she beat the odds.

With triumphs, comes trials — any good story has these elements. But the story gets better.

The same drive that led her to complete high school with honors, led Stephanie to earn her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and cinch an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Executive MBA program. She even studied economics and finance in Singapore and Barcelona, Spain which created a desire to travel the world and experience other cultures. Since then, Stephanie has visited over ten countries.

Today, through the organization she founded, The Champagne Connection, Inc., Stephanie, a Success Mindset Mentor & Transformational Specialist, and Pranic Healing Enthusiast has the uncanny ability to help others transform emotional and mental obstacles into stepping stones to living their dreams. She has an insatiable appetite for helping others re-think the impossible. A few minutes with Stephanie is intoxicating.

She effortlessly mesmerizes audiences and inspires them from laughter to tears and back again. Whether she is in a small audience, one-on-one mentoring/counseling, a large conference or in a pulpit, everyone will experience a breakthrough.

Her superpower: Transforming Lives. With her guidance, teeth-rattling soul shaking experiences vaporize at her command.

Exhorting others to “live the life you imagine,” Stephanie’s The Champagne Connection helps people talk about, identify and work to resolve the difficult, emotional, and often painful behavior and actions that affect their financial health and the financial health of their families. She helps people recognize painful feelings, hidden secrets and to uncover memories that have affected their financial health and the health of their families. Sometimes called the “Straight No Chaser Motivator”, Stephanie, shares an inspirational and life-changing message through her company’s workshops, seminars, books, CDs, videos and other speaking engagements.

As a Transformational Specialist, Stephanie has given people the tools needed to not only live their dreams and finally start “that business”, but to also lead movements in their cities that have dramatically changed the lives of others. One of Stephanie’s core principles is to be of service to others. The businesses Stephanie has coached have not only changed the lives of others but have also increased their revenues by as much as 150%. If you’re on the brink of disaster, Stephanie is the life line you should reach out for.

Driven by the belief that every day is a miracle, and that stamina, discipline, and strength were necessary companions, Stephanie hosts a local television show, A Sip of Inspiration, and facilitates an annual Ignite Your Inner Millionaire conference designed to help others change their Mindset in order to achieve success.

She is also the author of Amazon.com’s highly popular books “Be Sure You Dance”, “Is Anybody Listening: A Journey to Wholeness” and “Embracing Life’s Lessons: Journey to Inner Peace and Tranquility” and the popular audio set Overcoming Roadblocks to Prosperity.

She received the Diamond Spirit Award in 2015, the Phi Beta Sigma Crescent Moon Award and the Minnie Ripperton Humanitarian Award in 2013, the Dyvine Destiny Phenomenal Woman Award in 2012, the Chicago Defender’s Women of Excellence Award and The Verizon Hometown Heroes Award in 2011 and The Black Pearl Award in 2005 for her outstanding contributions to the community. She is actively involved with homeless shelters, at risk youth, teenage mothers, and victims of domestic violence.

Stephanie wants the world to know: We can’t always control how our story starts, but we can write ourselves a better ending. Life’s too short to drink cheap champagne.

For more information visit www.champagneconnection.com

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