The Life Letter June 2022

THE

Life Letter

empowerMENt EDITION The Life Letter June 1, 2022. Copyright Lovebird Publishing LLC

JUNE EDITION 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE LIFE LETTER

INSPIRATION...........3 LOVEBIRD’S LETTER Photo of Inspiration

HOT TOPICS.......................6 JUNETEENTH: 1st National Holiday

HEALTH & WELLNESS.......11 MENTAL HEALTH SCREENING: Checklist for Millennial Men

ARTS N ACTION.................18 Daddy Man by LoveBird

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THE LIFE LETTER

LoveBird’s Letter Just in case if you haven’t noticed this edition is dedicated to the men. My spectacular husband was gracious enough to grace the cover. He was my muse for this month. As I drew inspiration from his life and influence I realized that he along with many others deserved to be celebrated.

I know you might be thinking that I should have done this for the women for Mother’s Day, and I can understand that argument. However men, especially fathers, don’t get the due honor in society. So I set out to do something about it.

This edition is for all the fathers, father figures, mentors, and community servants that work tirelessly to defend, direct, and lead with love.

I hope that when they read this letter (and the magazine for that matter) that they can understand the hearts of their children. I pray that they can feel the admiration from the people they love the most. My biggest desire is that they are overcome with a feeling of accomplishment, knowing that their labor of love is not in vain.

So If you are reading this, please send this to a father you know and love. Send it to a man you cherish. Share with the them and implore them to do the same.

Because daddies matter.

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THE LIFE LETTER

LoveBird’s Unpopular Opinions In honor of Father’s Day and celebrating a monumental moment in black history such as Juneteenth, I thought it would be suitable to debunk some myths in the black community as it pertains to fatherhood. This might be my most controversial opinion to date, so buckle up for this one.

Black mothers should not celebrate themselves on Father’s day, because black mothers will never take the place of black fathers. For the last few years, social media has been a sounding board for disgruntled single mothers as they express the bitterness of their struggle caused by the absence of their children’s father. Father’s day is arguably one of the only holidays where negativity can be welcomed by the very people who should be honoring their subjects. The memes and passive aggressive compliments women give themselves oftentimes overshadow the efforts of the good men that deserve to be celebrated. The belief that mostly all black fathers are absentee due to imprisonment, poverty, and extreme disregard is simply not holding as much weight as it used to.

Granted, since the days of reconstruction we have seen the continual downward spiral of the black family. Many black mothers depended upon government assistance to raise their families in poverty stricken areas. Most of those programs came to aid the families at the expense of the father not being in the home. Low income areas saw a shocking rise in crime as black men attempted to survive and provide in extreme lows in economic resources. Unjust laws and campaigns like the war on drugs locked away our black men for decades.

All of these things played a role in the demise of the black family. However, 46% of black men live with and raise their children. The millennial generation is slowly recovering from the stain of history. Not to mention our generation is getting married much later than our parents and grandparents and we are producing less children. All in all, black fathers are more present than we like to admit. Father’s Day should solely be for the fathers that are present and active whether they are with the child’s mother or not.

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THE LIFE LETTER

Many believe that mothers can raise their children and be mother and father, when actuality you can only be one.

Don’t get me wrong, there are countless single mothers that were phenomenal in setting a good example; by nurturing, providing, protecting, guiding and loving their children.

There are many examples of people who went on to beat the odds of the statistics and soar into success and excellence due to their mother’s love. I am in no way discounting or dismissing their efforts. I applaud these women for doing what most could not do.

Even in that, there is a place and time to honor these women and that day is Mother’s Day. Simply put, they were not both mother and father. They were just outstanding mothers, which is enough.

It is long overdue we acknowledge the value of fatherhood, especially black fathers.

We need black fathers.

We do better when they are present and active.

Our community is stronger and safer when they are there.

What they represent and the power they carry, is the secret ingredient that we need to rebuild our communities in the United States of America.

So if you have something negative to say about an absentee father you know or are connected to, hold your peace until after Father’s Day. For that day should be spent giving flowers to the good daddies out there that are doing all they can to fight the stereotype that black daddies aren’t there. Father’s day should be the day you shower a good daddy you know with the appreciation he deserves. If by chance you can’t think of anyone to celebrate just hold your peace and witness the outpouring of love from the children of the true father’s out there.

Signed a daddy’s girl.

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THE LIFE LETTER

JUNETEENTH- FREEDOM DAY

In June 19, 1865 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas.

250,000 black slaves were notified that they were finally free that day.

These slaves toiled for two additional years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which formally freed the slaves in 1863.

Confederate controlled territories were slothful in delivering the news to slaves, since the southern economy was solely dependent upon free slave labor.

Juneteenth is Independence Day for Black Americans who were descendants of slaves. It has been long celebrated in Texas, but in recent years has caught on in the black community at large.

This year is the first year where Juneteenth is honored as a national holiday in the United States.

For more information on Juneteenth, visit the National Museum of African 10 American History & Culture.

THE LIFE LETTER

42% of Black Fathers live with their children...

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HEALTH SCREENINGS CHECKLIST: Health screenings for Millennial Men

Screenings for your 20s and 30s • Physical Exam • Blood Pressure Test • Cholesterol Test • Mental Health Screening • STD/STI/HIV Screening • Update Immunizations • Diabetes Test • Dental Exam • Vision Screening • Skin Screening • Urinalysis Screening • Testicular Screening (self examination monthly) • Colon Screening (if needed due to family history) • Testosterone Screening (if needed due to symptoms of low levels)

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THE LIFE LETTER

SIMPLE SUMMER WORKOUT TIPS Every year our New Year’s Resolution includes working on our summer body. More times than not, we fall off the wagon around March or April, leaving us very little time to realize our ideal fitness goals. So, what happens when the summer body isn’t ready? The only thing left to do is keep working out. I have some summer workout tips for those of us who are playing catch up!

1.Run! You can run anywhere, There is nothing like a cardio workout in sunny weather! Going early in the morning to avoid extreme temperatures is recommended.

4.Take your indoor workout outside.

Visiting a local park, or walking trail to complete the routine workout could be the change of pace you need to stay consistent.

2.Take advantage of the seasonal fruit and blend them in your smoothies for a chilled refreshing drink to fill you without overindulging in sugary alternatives.

5.Swimming is great cardio and a fun pastime. Bring the whole family along, but don’t forget to get those good strokes in before you have fun.

3.Stay hydrated to avoid dehydration and cramping. While drinking juice and sodas are appealing, nothing hydrates the body and refreshes like water. Infuse your water with your favorite fruit to add a splash of flavor.

6.Make it a group thing! Starting a workout group would be awesome to do in the summer, because everyone is looking for things to get into. Meeting up, working out, and helping each other with fitness goals could be the boost you need to make a real lifestyle change!

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THE LIFE LETTER

1413 East End Ave. We can pray with you. Call us ANYTIME!

24 Hr Prayer Line 866-787-0288 9 River City Church Chicago

THE LIFE LETTER LANE PROTECTION AGENCY-- MEET THE CEO

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Joshua Lane Sr. specializes in • event security • commercial security • operations management.

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laneproagency@gmail.com please include all relative work experience.

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THE LIFE LETTER

Abolitionist and Freedom Fighter John Brown

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THE LIFE LETTER

Abolitionist and Freedom Fighter John Brown was born May 9, 1800 in Torrington, CT. Mr. Brown grew up in Hudson, Ohio, which was a notable pitstop on the Underground Railroad. His family’s home became a safe house, and he saw firsthand the atrocities of the slave trade in the new found United States.

He lost his wife and two of his children to illness, but later remarried. He relocated the family business and his four surviving children to present-day Kent, Ohio.

Brown moved to Springfield, Massachusetts, and he quickly became immersed in the city’s influential abolitionist community.

John Brown’s first notable abolitionist campaign took place in Lawrence Kansas. Bleeding Kansas also known as the Pottawatomie Massacre occurred on May 25, 1856, and resulted in the deaths of five pro-slavery settlers.

In 1859, Brown was led raids to free slaves in the present-day Midwest region. At this time, he also connected to Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass. They were influential figures in Brown’s life, and helped shaped his philospophy on slavery and bigotry.

John Brown’s raid in current day West Virginia (Harper’s Ferry) led to the capture of proslavery advocate Colonel Lewis Washington and other prominent leaders. He and his men, which in included his two sons, secured much weaponry in their enemy’s armory.

Late in the afternoon of October 17, 1859, President James Buchanan ordered a company of Marines led by Colonel Robert E. Lee to march into Harpers Ferry.

Lee attempted to get Brown to surrender to no avail. The military men stormed John Brown's Fort, taking all of the abolitionist fighters and their men alive.

Brown was hanged on December 2, 1859, at the age of 59. John Brown’s radical freedom fighting was the template for the revolution, which continues today.

Sources: history.com

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THE LIFE LETTER

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DADDY MAN by LoveBird This is a dedication to all of the daddies out here. This is for all the men that are so present in their children’s lives they assume everyone has a daddy.

I want to take this time to salute those hood daddies, that wear a badge of honor because they bought their son their first gold chain. The daddies that threaten their daughter’s dates. The daddies that hustle so they kids won’t have to. The daddies that love tough, but cry at the thought of getting to be a good father.

I want to thank the corporate daddies that build expansive legacies to pass down to their kids one day. The daddies that have to answer phone calls in the middle of a basketball game, to secure their children’s college fund. The daddies that instill good business practices within their daughters and sons. For they know their kids will one day rule. For they are king’s kids and that’s what king’s kids do.

I want to shout out the blue collar daddies that work for a living. They give everything they got to secure the next meal. They make an honest living, but the riches they give is in the life lessons. Those daddies always talk above your head because they know one day you’ll arise to the occasion. I want to love on the real daddies.

The daddies that change diapers, and tires. The daddies that hug a little too tight, because they sometimes wish we were smaller. The daddies that will knock you out if you get out of order. The daddies that keep your secrets away from your mothers.

The daddies that kills big spiders and will shield you from gunfire. The daddies that fight with everything they have to ensure you know they love you, with word and deed. These daddies, comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes.

THE LIFE LETTER

We often applaud them for wearing capes, but we neglect to see the invisible armor they bare. To protect us from the unsightly horrors of this world.

The daddies that went to war and came home quiet, for if they spoke their words would destroy hope. The daddies that were sent to jail for way too long, and when they came home they remained strong, for if we saw their weakness, the security of their presence wouldn’t mean as much.

To the daddies that left us, ascended into the heavenlies but leaving spiritual, emotional, and intellectual seeds of wisdom we still live by. For the best fathers prepare their kids for the day that they die.

For everything big or small you did to make our day.

For every mistake you made that was ignited by a good intention.

For every gem of wisdom you carefully delivered.

For every word of correction that jolted our spirit.

For every example you set.

For every standard you met.

For every tear you cried as you fought to get things just right.

From your heart to mine. Thank you.

I speak for all the knuckle headed kids when I say we love you, we need you, and we see you!

Happy Fathers Day.

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The Ton3s New Album THE LIFE LETTER

J. Vito, Tony Lelo, and 2E are a trio of North Carolina natives known as The Hamiltones. The group started as background vocalist for Grammy winning soul singer Anthony Hamilton.

The Hamiltones have been featured on The Breakfast Club, Steve Harvey Morning Show, sold out The Apollo, and have been featured on four Grammy nominated albums; including Anthony Hamilton, PJ Morton, Johnathan McReynolds, and Tori Kelly.

What the group has created is a new sound with an old vibe, they call it Young Vintage.

https://www.watchtheton3s.com

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THE LIFE LETTER

LIFE LITERATURE:

By: Pastor Devontae Powell

Book Recommendation for Ministry Leaders Each and every person on Earth was born with a unique gift. With time, experience, and God’s guidance we are expected to grow in both wisdom and maturity so that we can operate in the divine fullness of ministry. In His word, God has outlined and ordained specific processes for believers to follow in order to reach that level of destiny. The road is not easy, but when you choose to operate under the instruction of His will, God will preserve you along the journey. Letters to A Developing Ministry Leader breaks down the silent struggles that developing leaders face as they identify, pursue, and begin to walk in purpose. Without the proper tools, the burden that accompanies us as we deposit our gifts in the world can be overwhelming and confusing.

Through this powerful, easyread, you will learn to press through difficult obstacles, and walk boldly in God’s handcrafted plan for your life.

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LIFE LITERATURE SECTION BUSINESS DIRECTORY: ChariseDenise

Real Estate Agent: ST. Clair &

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Sexy Black Products

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Beauty & Skin Care Brand FB Mary Cleark

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DM for more information

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815-797-9333 Kimberly Crumble Realtor

Do you wish to be featured in The Life Letter’s Business Directory?

Send all business info and contact information to lovebirdpublishing1@gmail.com ALL INQUIRES WILL BE ACCEPTED!

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THE LIFE LETTER

LIFE LITERATURE SECTION BUSINESS DIRECTORY: Ascending Essentials: LAUNCHING SOON

Honest Guys Heating & Cooling

Beauty & Skincare Brand

Professional HVAC Company

FB @LavishEssentials20

FB @honestguyshvac HonestyHVAC.com

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Visual Arts & Beauty Brand FB @UltimatelySkilledbyGOD

Megg’s Kitchen: LAUNCHING SOON

briannajeartistry@gmail.com

Catering Company meggan_harris@yahoo.com

Cover’d Customs Custom Clothing & Consultation Brand FB & IG @coveredcustoms coveredclothingandcustoms@gmail.com Empowering YOUNG Lives Early Learning

Lane Protection Agency Professional Security Services FB @laneproagency laneproagency.com laneproagency@gmail.com

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Private School

Beauty, cosmetic, and personal care

Address: 32 E 34th St. Steger, IL

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Follow on FB @Empowering YOUNG Lives

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Fashioned Brand Lifestyle and Clothing Brand

Do you wish to be featured in The Life Letter’s Business Directory?

FB & IG @fashionedbrand fashnd.com sales@fashnd.com

Send all business info and contact information to lovebirdpublishing1@gmail.com ALL INQUIRES WILL BE REVIEWED!

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LOVEBIRD’S PRAYER Dear Lord, I thank you for the influential men you have put into my life. I thank you for every man that is alive and well. God I ask that you heal their deepest darkest pain that they oftentimes hide. I pray that you penetrate their hearts and encourage them with your loving presence. When they feel themselves getting weak God allow your supernatural strength to make up the difference.

God I pray that every man who reads this feels loved, appreciated and worthy. Help them to see themselves how you see them; mighty men of valor. Help them to walk in their God given authority and identity. And I thank you for it all being done according to your will.

In Jesus name, Amen

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Life Letter

THE

CONTACT ME DIRECTLY: issuu.com/lbpublish lovebirdpublishing1@gmail.com Follow Lovebird Publishing on FB @lbpublish The Life Letter. June 1, 2022 Copyright Lovebird Publishing LLC

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