DECEMBER 2021

A Taste of Melanin is a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Ashlee and Stephaney discussing lifestyle, relationships, business and more. Their goal is to uplift and motivate black women and men to live and be the best version of themselves. Also, to bring awareness to what young black women deal with in the dating world. Lastly, to shine a light on being authentic and how you shouldn’t feel guilty for wanting the best for yourself.

They are also really big on getting the males perspective on everyday life situations.

You can find A Taste of Melanin live on Apple and Spotify.

SHERMAN

GREEN Providing an executive life coaching company that focuses on navigating companies and individuals on accomplishing their goals

WEBSITE: drsgreen.com FACEBOOK: Facebook.com/DrSGreen LINKEDIN: LinkedIn.com/in/dr-sherman-green TWITTER: @StrategicDirec1 INSTAGRAM: @dr_green_sd

www.MoneyMattersWithMarlene.com

ESTABLISHED FEBRUARY TWENTY 16

IN HONOR OF

32 ISSUES IN 5 YEARS SOW A SEED INTO LMP | THE REVIEW MAGAZINE TODAY $MrMrsGratitude

ALWAYS

BE

GRATEFUL

Native Mississippians, James and Natasha both have more than 14 years of experience in their respective fields of education (Natasha) and graphic design and ministry (James).

In 2013 they decided to undergo an 18-month transition towards full-time entrepreneurship and homeschool education for their son, James III. After completing the System Mastery Course, James and Natasha published their first co-authored book, Our Story – A Journey to Purpose. The release of this book not only set them on the path to produce over 30 published authors, it revealed their purpose as a couple – to be the comprehensive elements of love, marriage and partnership.

After discovering their purpose, James and Natasha invested time and other resources in developing themselves to align with the vision that had been given.

Their work produced opportunities to produce a magazine Love, Marriage & Partnership – the Review, a VIP Awards program recognizing entrepreneurs and community leaders, speaking engagements domestically and internationally, instructional courses for singles and married couples, nine published books and recognized by the state’s current governor as BE Mississippi’s top business couple of the year and Mississippi Business Journal’s Top Entrepreneur.

With their platform of love, marriage and partnership along with their desire to edify excellence in entrepreneurship and leadership, James and Natasha use their magazine as a resource for those looking for tools to add to their relationship and business arsenals.

In all that they do, James and Natasha desire to keep God the center and love people. The byproduct of that desire is to impact, inspire and initiate purpose in the lives of 10 million people while promoting and being evidence of PositiveMississippi

“In all that they do, James and Natasha desire to keep God the center and love people.”

J A M E S & N A T A S H A K I N G | F O U N D E R S | LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

Fall is here! We encourage you to look at where you are and where you decided to be at the beginning of the year, and truly celebrate the goals that you set, take responsibility to stay on track, and simply be grateful for it all. As we honor excellence and share love across many platforms, we charge you to welcome a new season in your life and embrace the journey of significance.

IN THIS ISSUE OF LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP THE REVIEW, be inspired to use a few new things, get organized, or take your love experience to a new level of being, giving and having.

COUPLES IN PARTNERSHIP This feature is the heart of the publication, so become acquainted with phenomenal couples from all over that are building businesses and serving their communities through a loving partnership.

DATE NIGHT IDEAS Do more than flirt with the idea of Date Nights, make a commitment. These sweet notions will spark dedication for that much desired QT whether you’re single, just having fun, or in a committed relationship.

ON THE LOOKOUT Consider yourself well informed of this set of business owners and public figures that are impacting their respective fields with grace, style and so much more.

The views expressed by featured individuals are independent of LMP and its publishers.

LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW is a monthly publication sponsored by MR & MRS KING that focuses on married couples that are in partnership with each other through service and/or business to their communities and abroad. The goal of the LMP | THE REVIEW is to inspire readers to look at the essence of partnership in marriage as shared by exemplary couples, ultimately moving readers to actively define, develop,

and

devote

purpose as a couple.

to

their

TRUTH TRUTH TRUTH TRUTH FROM THE DESK OF JAMES & NATASHA KING

“God’s truth is the best foundation to stand on” - The Kings

K N O W

Y O U R

T R U T H

It seemed like a typical Sunday evening as we returned from visiting with family.

The day started like most other Sundays, where we hurried to get dressed and out of the door with baby and bags. We had developed a habit of leaving the house just as service was starting. Imagine getting to service after the “rush”, finally settling into whatever seat the usher found for you and gathering yourself to focus while managing your two-year old. Getting through service with a distracted praise and worship experience and broken attention to the message given usually left me feeling tired. By the time we would make it to our grandmother’s house, exchanged pleasantries and had something to eat, I would find my way to the corner of the couch and fall asleep (it wasn’t “the itis”). As we returned to the house, James asked me a question that seemed like a command. “Why are you acting like you don’t have joy?”

It was that moment that the conviction of his question and where it came from shifted me from a place of sulkiness to humbleness and surrender. If I were honest, I could have talked about how I was feeling regarding our finances and business, but I would have been speaking from a place of lack. If I were honest, I could have talked about my tiredness but I would have been admitting that I was afraid to change habits and routines that no longer served me. If I were honest, I would have been speaking a reality that I didn’t desire and negated my responsibility to speak the truth.

The ability that we have to speak life into what we perceive as a dismal situation comes from a place of knowing that there’s a positive rescue (hope) for our situation. Our faith makes the difference in what we look at and what we see.

Yes, anyone can look at a present health issue, financial problem or relationship matter and say all kinds of things that don’t align with God’s will. However, a person of faith can be in that same situation yet see from a different place.

When we have faith to believe bigger and better than what may be present, we are exercising our will to see it from God’s perspective and that is the truth. That truth is more real than what we are experiencing right now.

For the past 3-6 months or longer you have been dealing with an issue that has not changed. We challenge you to find a scripture that speaks to that issue – health, business, relationship, finances, spirituality, purpose. Whatever it is, write the scripture down, save it to your phone, carry it with you, even put it on your wall or refrigerator. Saturate your environment, and your heart with truth so that in its abundance it will become what you speak. Be assured that God produces the fruit of your lips.

the seven habits of

GOAL

SETTING

STATE THE GOAL Write a clearly defined goal of what you desire with a specific date.

IDENTIFY BENCHMARKS Consider the benchmarks as checkpoints that you will reach along the way. Celebrate them as selfconfidence builders towards your goal.

IDENTIFIY PEOPLE NEEDED These are people that have achieved what you are trying to accomplish, believe in your success and are willing to assist you. Note: you do not have to know these people before you start. Just know that they will be presented to you when it’s time.

DEVELOP A PLAN See yourself as if you’ve already achieved your goal.

Write a plan of action that you feel will help you reach your goal. Note: Expect that a better plan will present itself to you and be willing to change.

IDENTIFY THE OBSTACLES Be honest with yourself and list six things (including your own limiting habits) that will try to stop you from reaching your goal. Note: Write these obstacles on a sheet of paper and burn it.

LIST THE SKILLS NEEDED Consider the skills that you are not willing or able to outsource in order to achieve your goal.

LIST THE REWARD(S) Consider how you will celebrate the achievement of your goal and receive that joy with grace.

FEATURED FEATURED FEATURED

Curtis & Jamila

JONES

Curtis and Jamila Jones met in 2011 as great friends but developed a relationship in 2014. They became one in marriage in July 2015.

Together they have a blended family of 3 girls and 2 boys. Curtis is originally from Mississippi and Jamila from Illinois. Currently they reside in Houston, TX. Curtis is a Marine Corp Veteran with a profession in insurance and finance. Jamila has a profession in Human Resources and is a Houston Realtor as well as a Clothing Boutique owner. Together they have been entrepreneurs for 7 years.

Currently, Curtis and Jamila are working to increase their portfolio in the Real Estate rentals with the use of investment properties, Airbnb and rental properties. They are working towards building generational wealth for their family while breaking generational curses. They come from homes with hard working families but also saw where struggle took place. Their goal is to make sure that curse is broken. Through hard work, vision, consistency and most of all prayer, they are headed in the right direction.

Curtis and Jamila love traveling when time permits, random date nights and having fun with their children while watching them grow.

The Jones family believes when you extend yourself to others, God has no choice but to extend himself to you.

the

REVIEW

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE TO YOU? Marriage is a secured bond between husband and wife along with God that shows your commitment to each other and God. Marriage is a lifelong walk with your friend.

WHAT DOES "BECOMING ONE" MEAN TO YOU AND WHAT DO YOU DO TO WORK TOWARDS IT? Becoming one to us means one decision, one mind and one voice. We will always have each other’s back regardless of the situation. When one spouse voice is heard, so is the others and we stand firm on this belief.

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING THAT YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER? As much as we believe Mississippi was a great foundation, we believe relocating set the standard for our marriage and future. This has been a huge accomplishment because we were able to take a step back to see what we needed based on the vision God has given us. We had a plan and agreed that moving would enhance our marriage and give us a fresh start. Since moving to Houston, we have been able to focus on each other, our family and obtain our goals.

HOW DO YOU GROW YOURSELVES WITHIN THE RELATIONSHIP? HOW DO YOU GROW THE RELATIONSHIP? We understand we are not perfect and there are times where we sometimes point the finger at the other person. That is not ok and will never be ok. We realize it’s healthy to seek counsel and have mentors to guide us through marriage. In order for us to be leaders, we have to first listen and be followers. We are willing to follow other married couples that God leads us to and listen to how they grew their marriage. We also seek counseling individually so that we can understand ourselves for ourselves and for our partner.

HOW DO YOU NOT FOCUS ON THE SUBJECTIVE AND RELATIVE STUFF AROUND YOU AND FOCUS ON THE TRUTH? In order to focus on realities things around us and the truth, we have to be honest with ourselves. There is no way that we can heal or grow if we can not admit any issues or focus on what’s real in front of us. As much as we don’t like to, we have to talk the truth out with each other and get through it. The more we sweep it under the rug, the longer it takes to deal with our truth and it becomes a lie. This has hurt us in the past and we have made a promise to each other to speak our truth, face our reality and heal.

WHO DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU SEE YOUR SPOUSE? We see our spouse as our friend and we love it! We laugh at the silliest thing, talk about the most craziest thing and dream so big with each other. We were not in this place a few years ago and for us to be in this place now, is the best feeling in the world! We are married to our friend!

We didn’t understand what it meant to be married to your friend and how important it is to and for, that friendship and now we see it and wish we would have recognized this a long time ago.

WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF HAVING A SHARED VISION? Write the vision and make it plain! Both of us are on one accord and both of us share the same vision! Because we share this same vision, we trust God so much that he has to come through because we are gathered together and dream this vision together daily. Having a shared vision means you are truly on one accord with each other and understand each other’s desires and goals.

HOW DO YOU SOLVE PROBLEMS/ BRING SOLUTIONS IN THE RELATIONSHIP? This was so hard for us and if we can be honest….it still is. Sometimes, we have to walk away, breathe and come back and talk. Sometimes, we have to go to the gym and run it out. Sometimes we have to honestly text the issue out because we do not want to yell at each other. At the end of the day, when we talk, the question is always asked “ What is the solution after this conversation?’’ This helps us really talk this through and try to make sure if this comes up again, we know how to handle it. We realize we are not perfect and we genuinely hate arguing, but it happens and we are human. One thing we love about our marriage is that our bond is so strong and our friendship is so deep, we can not stay away from each other too long.

WHAT IS A QUOTE OR SCRIPTURE THAT YOU BOTH USE AS YOU FUNCTION IN PARTNERSHIP? The LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. - This scripture ,means so much to us because we believe it! Write down whatever it is you desire, read it, say it, trust it, give it back to God and watch it come to past.

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

The Academy opened in June 2021 by Jamison & Schneika Stokes. It was created to provide a comfortable and inviting learning environment to individuals pursuing a real estate career. It’s most popular course, “Get Your License: Sales Pre-License Course”, provides the education and classroom hours that individuals need to sit for the national real estate exam. The Academy also serves current licensed agents and brokers with continuing education courses.

Schneika serves as the lead instructor. She has over 10 years of education experience and 5+ years of real estate experience. She is passionate about education and loves to train new agents.

All of the current courses and registration can be found at w w w . t h e a c a d e m y . r e a l e s t a t e

DR.

VIRGINIA

JAMISON

A WIFE, MOTHER, GRANDMOTHER AND A GREAT GRANDMOTHER! She is a serial entrepreneur using the gifts and graces given to her by God. More than anything, she’s a servant, called to serve! She uses what she has been blessed with to bless others. She serves both naturally and spiritually!

SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN PRINCIPLES for SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN LOVING YOUR WIFE SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN

SEVEN

CLEANSE HER. LISTEN TO HER.

Listening to your wife allows you to really understand her, and see her inner-most thoughts. You also see her needs. Being able to listen is one of the greatest gifts that you can give to your wife. When you listen, understand that she is not asking for your advice, she is simply looking for you to be open to her feelings and thoughts. Listening allows you to see what she is saying, how she is saying it, and most importantly, why she is saying it. By listening, you can discern whether your wife is seeking your advice or just in need of you helping her to find her own answer.

PAY ATTENTION TO HER.

The more you listen to your wife, the better you will get at paying attention to her. Paying attention allows you to learn major and minor details about your wife, such as knowing her favorite things, her love language, when to do things for her, and how to read her moods.

When you pay attention to your wife, you can tell when she wants to do something or have something, but denies it to accommodate you or a situation. Perhaps the greatest thing is being able to recognize who God is in your wife, the strengths and gifts that He’s placed in her. Paying attention allows you to love her the way she deserves to be loved.

APPRECIATE HER.

As a husband it should be a privilege to appreciate your wife every chance you get.

Appreciation shows her that all she does has value. Our wives do so much daily to make sure all our needs are met as well as running a household. Appreciate your wife by saying thank you every chance you get. Learn how to edify her at all times letting the world know that she is your gift from the Lord. Appreciate her time, her loving, her respect, her patients, her thoughts and her value to your life. This is an action that will always keep a smile on her face.

Cleansing your wife takes loving her mind, body and soul to a new level. As a husband we are taught to cleanse our wife by washing her with the word of God. As we listen and pay attention to her, please be aware that from day to day so much negativity, disappointments and past hurts fill her mind.

Sometimes it’s visible and sometimes suppressed. To cleanse her we must pray with and for her daily, speak positive things into her life daily, speak the word of God with her daily and patently help her to focus on the positive only each and every day. As you cater to her as the weaker vessel the stronger she will be.

BE A GENTLEMAN (CHIVALRY) WITH HER.

Being a gentleman shows your wife that you’re a chivalrous, courteous and an honorable man. Doing this consistently will give your wife the assurance that you love and honor her worth. Your wife deserves to have her doors opened, her chair pulled out, having her hand held in public and private, foot rubs and fixing her plate, just to name a few. Being a gentleman is one of the greatest ways to honor your wife, not only for what she does but ultimately for who she is to you.

As husbands let’s show our wives and the world that chivalry is alive and well.

SET GOALS THAT STRETCH HER.

Being the visionary of the home it is our job to set the bar high with everything that we do, including setting goals. The goals should include you and your wife at all times. Because we as husbands desire to see all God has instore for our wives, it is good to set all goals bigger than life. High goals are put into place so that we have to be stretched and grow to reach them.

As husbands stretching our wives shows her that we believe in her. Believing in our wives is one of the highest forms of love and appreciation.

PLACE HER AS YOUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD.

Yes, place her before parents, children, the household responsibilities, work-related duties, and all the other things that attempt to press their way in front

of your wife. Establishing and maintaining this priority is one way of fostering peace, better communication, and productivity within your home and relationship.

SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN PRINCIPLES for SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN RESPECTING YOUR HUSBAND SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN SEVEN SEVENSEVENSEVEN

SEVEN

LOVE GOD AND BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM. This must be priority over all other things.

It is not possible to know God and not love Him, and it is impossible to love someone else and not love God. Establishing a loving relationship with God will properly equip you with the strength and wisdom to truly love your husband with an unconditional lovean Agape love. Furthermore, the love that you have for God allows you to accept His commands, and grow in understanding of His word. As your relationship with God grows, so will it with your husband as God shows you how to submit to your husband as unto Christ.

LOVE YOURSELF AND HAVE AN INCREASING DESIRE TO BETTER YOURSELF. The better woman that you become, his inspiration to be better is also increased. He sees you as a suitable helper, a true partner – one who completes him as opposed to competes with him. By focusing on positive change within yourself, your husband will view you as someone to be honored, instead of feeling like you’re trying to change him.

Also, it may be necessary to tell him that you are working to make yourself better, so that you can be a better help to him.

BELIEVE IN AND BUILD UP THE MAN THAT HE IS TO BE. It is vital that you always keep a positive image of who your husband is to be. This takes work on your part, but it’s worth it in the end. There will be moments where it’s easy to see your husband’s weaknesses or areas you feel he needs to grow in, but trust in God to mold and change him. Continue to build him up, encourage him, speak to and treat him like the man that he is to become. Also, be careful not to compare him to anyone else.

Ultimately, you want him to be his best self, who God designed him to be – which is more than what you may desire him to be within a moment.

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

LET YOUR THOUGHTS, WORDS, AND ACTIONS ALWAYS BE POSITIVE OF HIM. This requires self-discipline on many levels. It has often been said that when we do things, we do them three times: in our mind, in our words, and in our actions.

Often, there is much emphasis on guarding what we say or do, because those are external things that others can see. However, our thoughts are internal which only God can see. Don’t allow negative thoughts to build up against what you know is true about your husband – that he is your good and perfect gift from the Lord, and that he is fearfully and wonderfully made. Through prayer, fasting, meditation, and God’s word, tear down the strongholds that have built themselves up in regard to your husband so that your words and actions may always be positive both publicly and privately.

HONOR HIM AS THE PRIEST, PROVIDER, AND PROTECTOR OF YOUR HOME. To do so requires trust and faith in God at an optimum level. Perhaps this is the area where submission is exercised the most, because it requires a great deal of sacrifice. As the priest of the home, your husband must be respected as the mediator between God and the family. Respect your husband as the one who provides the vision and goals for your family – not just a provider of resources. Understand that God will provide your husband with the vision. Your work is found in his vision.

This is not to disregard your goals and dreams. When you sacrifice your personal ambitions, you’ll understand that God has made provisions for your gifts to be used and desires fulfilled in the work that He has given your husband. As the protector of your home, your husband’s fortification addresses anything that may infringe upon the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of your family. If you feel or see that these components are not present in your husband, pray that God develops these things in him.

PRAY FOR HIM. Be attentive to your husband’s needs, desires, strengths, and weaknesses in a way that you can prayerfully ask God to address. When you do so, you allow God to use all of His resources to touch the areas of your husband that you’re praying for. Have peace in knowing that you have no power to change anything about your husband, but God gives you the power and authority to pray for him and help him through God’s strength.

PLACE HIM AS YOUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD. Yes, place him before the children, the household chores, work-related duties, and all the other things that attempt to press their way in front of your husband. Establishing and maintaining this priority is one way of fostering peace, better communication, and productivity within your home and relationship.

S h o p L i z N i c o l e . c o m

KIM TAYLOR Founder of Kimazing Photography,

is nothing less than a photographic genius. Born in Slidell, Louisiana, she is loyal to her faith, her family and football (GO SAINTS). Kim's love for the art of photography since her younger years has bolstered her ability to express the human spirit through the magic of her camera lens. Most times, in just a single click of the camera, her clients have come to life in a picture. Not only is she skillfully talented in her approach to create, capture and convey still moments, Kim has an authentic way of bringing imagination to life. For more than a pastime, Kim finds enormous pleasure in bringing out a variety of emotion in every shot. It is no wonder that she spends hours on end crafting priceless memories that will last a lifetime.

Kim's art speaks thousands of words without ever being written down. Her focus and drive to positively exploit the human essence in her craft is beyond stellar. She takes her fearless ideas and pours them into her work. Her clients are encouraged and entranced by her abilities, She thrives off of the single clicks, the weight of her tool, the naturalistic emotions that are provided by her clients and the unexpected moments that give her life.

So, what’s your story? Whether you can answer that question with ease or you’ve never thought about it, start with this powerful, dynamic images that compel your audience to know more.

Whether you are looking for images for social media or for print, digital or media outlets, your branding portfolio through Kimazing Photography will be a timeless investment that will remind you - and your audience - of your “why”.

EMB RACE life AS A GIFT DAILY

Dismiss every misconception that you have about dating, Be open-minded, and expect to have fun! Who says that Dating has to be anything other than what you want it to be?

No one- it’s up to you how creative you want your predetermined moment of eminence to be! It is also important to note that Dating is for anyone: married, engaged, and yes, SINGLE.

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

IDEAS

BY: MR & MRS KING

HAVE A LUNCH HOUR DATE. Whether you have conflicting schedules or just need to switch things up a bit, it will be fun to rendezvous in the middle of the day for a change.

TAKE A PHOTO WALK. Wander around and capture anything that catches your eye with a camera or phone. Try shooting from a different perspective than you usually do. Have fun and be silly!

RELIVE YOUR FIRST DATE. Go back to the restaurant or coffee shop where you had your first date. Before you go home, consider re-creating your first kiss too.

TAKE A NATURE WALK More adventurous types can embark on a low-level hike, but any nature lover should try a scenic walk or a bike ride in nature with plenty of sights as food for conversation.

STOTTS LOVE &

MINISTRY

CELEBRATING NOW

STAPLETON LOVE &

MINISTRY

NEW BEGINNING

7 STEPS TO Creatively K I L L

P R O C R A S T I N AT I O N A N D

S T R E S S

Creativity is like a wildfire - it can start as a small spark but has the capacity to spread into every area of your life and others! If you’ve been in a stale place for any length of time, we encourage you to get moving. May we suggest something aggressive yet fun to fire up some intrinsic motivation that we believe will ultimately push you towards the realization of a truly worthy ideal.

Set your mind on creating 30 New Things within a specific timeframe. These things can be 30 new outfits/hairstyles, craft projects, letters to a loved one, implementations of an investment strategy, live videos or food dishes. YOU DECIDE! Check out the guidelines below to get yourself creatively moving towards action and peace.

1 2 3

H E R E

A R E

T H E

G U I D E L I N E S :

5

Determine what area you are setting your goal in: fitness, learning a craft (i.e. cooking, make-up, sports, gardening), studying, finances, doing something special for your significant other, etc.

6

Decide on an investment amount between $25 - $200 to cover supplies.

7

Decide if you’re going to focus your efforts for 30, 60, or 90 days and set aside a time that’s best for you to implement what you’ve learned and try out your 30 New Things. Spend 5 -30 minutes on actually doing that thing.

4

Search for new ideas from pictures, videos, books, or other people. Save them, so when you’re ready for the next “thing” you already have a pool to choose from.

Take pictures to chart your progress, and share your results at the end of your 30, 60, or 90 day adventure. #30NewThings Once you decide on your next “thing” implement it immediately. Follow up with your next new thing within 1-3 days. This guards against boredom, and stretches your creativity.

Determine what things you will HAVE to do daily. Also identify what things you’ll have to give up or go without doing.

The idea behind #30NewThings is implementation, and not perfection. You want to spark your curiosity and creativity by actively engaging in something new and fun. Do not become so focused on accurate execution, and leave room for spontaneity and uniqueness. Make a decision to get moving towards something new; in this case, 30 new things! happy adventures

relationship COMMUNICATION JAMES & NATASHA KING IT MAY COME AS A SURPRISE TO SOME THAT MERELY TALKING, THE EXCHANGE OF WORDS AND THOUGHTS BETWEEN TWO OR MORE PEOPLE, DOES NOT EQUATE TO COMMUNICATION - EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION THAT IS.

Consider these seven habits as you establish and/or grow your relationships.

LISTEN WITHOUT CONDEMNATION: Whenever you are engaging in a conversation, remember that the other person trusts you enough to share with you with no fear of judgement. Even if you don’t say anything that is viewed as judgmental during the conversation, guard your thoughts against judgement. Not doing so could impact your thoughts, feelings, or actions towards them later on.

AVOID CRAFTINESS: If you find yourself letting a conversation brew well before it actually takes place, where you craft the other person’s responses, you are unnecessarily tampering with your emotions. Avoid being emotionally disturbed and viewing the other person inappropriately because of comments you’ve developed in your own mind. Allow the other person to communicate with you in their own truth.

TALK WITHOUT COVETOUSNESS: It is not a comfortable feeling to genuinely engage in a conversation only to be met with words that are dripping with thirst. Refrain from abusing someone’s listening ear with words and thoughts that stem from longing and desiring what someone else has.

USE WORDS WITH NO COATING: At times, you may feel as if you cannot be completely truthful because you fear that you will hurt them. When this happens, you may find yourself sprinkling sugar over your words to avoid telling the whole truth.

Coating your words can be misleading for them and restricting for you. There is a way to use your words wisely, and still be completely truthful.

DODGE THE COPOUT: The copout is that opportune, yet evasive moment where you find yourself using phrases like whatever, that’s okay, or I don’t care. The irony is that it is not whatever, it is not okay, and you do care. We often find ourselves using these elementary colloquialisms, not because we don’t feel like talking at that particular time, but because we have not learned how to communicate beyond our feelings. Depending on the value of the relationship, you have three options: say nothing (some comments and behaviors don’t deserve your response), agree to talk at a better time, talk through whatever the problem is.

BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR WORDS: Being that opportunities wrapped in a particular set of circumstances do not present themselves more than once, you must choose your words wisely. Justifying what you say using, “I just have to speak my mind…” is acceptable only when you are choosing to allow your spirit to control your mind. Too often, when we “speak our mind”, we are really speaking from a place where we choose to allow our emotions to control our thoughts.

TAKE CONTROL: Taking control is not about dominating the conversation or dictating the other person’s thoughts or feelings. Honestly, that type of behavior and thinking typically yields an unfavorable outcome. Instead, being responsible and taking control of your thoughts, words, and actions places you in a much more effective position for communicating. Maintaining positivity while truthfully sharing what you think and feel will have a greater impact beyond the conversation.

BLESSINGS

NEW BOOK

SHORT- AND LONG-TERM INTENTIONS:

THE FRUIT OR THE SEED JAMES & NATASHA KING

The people that share your life will do so with either short- or longterm intention. It is important to be able to discern the difference between the two so that you can maintain a peace of mind and communication and relationships can operate with clarity. There is a proverb that says, “You know a tree by its fruit.” This is absolute truth! For that reason, most people only focus on the fruit…you can classify it, and identify whether you like it, need it or not.

In a practical sense, if you’re a plum tree, you’ll have certain people coming to you for your fruit based on their personal preference or need at that time. They may or may not come for your fruit for several reasons- someone said that it was good, bad, or whatever. There are also seasons where you’re on and when you’re not, and people can feel that too. When you are producing the fruit that this person wants and or needs at the given time, understand this to be shortterm intent. He or she will give to you or for you to receive the fruit that you bear.

In contrast, there is the person who recognizes you as a seed that has been gifted to them. A person that cherishes the seed is going to prepare the soil, ensuring the seed is in the right environment for it to take root. This person is going to water the seed and consistently do the things necessary for its continued growth, even pruning.

CONSIDER THIS:

YOU ARE A TREE. THERE ARE TWO BASIC PARTS TO YOU! YOUR SEED AND YOUR FRUIT.

Follow the relationship of a seed and bosom. It is a nurturing relationship where the nurturer cares for the growth and development of the seed but also adheres to the responsibility of being well themselves. As the nurturer, he/ she understands that if toxins (whether physical, mental, emotional or spiritual) are present, they can be transferred while nursing. It is a powerful thing to have someone in your life that understands all of that and is committed to see you grow and produce fruit in season and out.

EVALUATE THE PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE. Which ones are present with shortterm intentions? In most cases, these individuals interact with you through sacrifice of their time and other resources and expect something directly from you – your fruit.

Which ones are present with long-term intentions? These individuals are focused on you as a seed and have a desire to sow into your life. Anything that they do is an investment of which the return will reach far beyond you or them – multiple seeds and much fruit.

SABRINA

HOWARD

WHO IS SABRINA HOWARD Jackson, Mississippi, graphic artist and painter Sabrina Howard is impulsive, at least that is one way she describes her vibrant and expressionistic portraits that give subtle nods to social challenges and themes. With her preferred medium, acrylic, Howard handles a brush the way a seasoned writer uses a pen. Taking repurposed canvases and readily recyclable wood, Howard assembles the materials into abstract platforms.

The result of her passion- ate, bold strokes are emotion-laced, multi-dimensional pieces that pay tribute to cubist style with a gritty urban twist. She is the mother of four burgeoning creatives.

MY ART TO ME Is an extension of myself. It represents my personal history and experiences combined with current happenings in the world. And as my good friend and fellow artist Talemeika Brice describes me, I create beauty from chaos.

HOW HAS BEING AN ARTIST IN MISSISSIPPI BLESSED YOUR WORK Being an artist in Mississippi right now has blessed me by allowing my artistry to help document history in the making. It also has allowed me to give back to my city/my hometown.

Headshot by D’artagnion Winford

ARTIST | SABRINA HOWARD

ARTIST | SABRINA HOWARD

ARTIST | SABRINA HOWARD

ARTIST | SABRINA HOWARD

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Napoleon Hill described desire as the starting point of all achievement. Everyone carries a desire for something more than what they currently have. However, that desire will not begin a growth process until it becomes a seed of gratitude. Think of the many things that you are desiring - physical well-being, growth in a relationship, emotional harmony, mental health, financial freedom, environmental peace and stability, or occupational growth. Which area(s) are constantly on your mind despite your success in other areas?

You have a divine nature to both give and receive. Our task is to learn to give and receive with the same amount of grace. When there is an area of perceived lack, give with gratitude that very thing that you are desiring. It’s the difference between simply carrying around a seed wanting it to be more and graciously giving it to an environment where it has a greater chance of growing. Your expectation of faith is what activates the growth of your seed, and the laws of growth are inevitable.

1 Corinthians 3:6-9

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bria KELLY Interview a transforming

WHAT CONDITION WERE YOU IN PRIOR TO YOUR TRANSFORMATION, AND WHAT WERE SOME OF THE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS THAT LED TO YOU BEING IN THAT CONDITION? Before my transformation of coming to Christ, I was in a state of perpetual intoxication.

Be it through substances, or false attempts at love, I managed to find a way to keep myself high off the false illusions of happiness and temporary satisfaction. I utilized alcohol, marijuana, and serial dating as a mental health regimen. What led me to becoming reliant on substances and men were layers of low self esteem stemming from childhood, ongoing self-inflicted heartbreaks, and trauma that were left undealt with. Thus the overwhelming desire to escape my reality at the time-which was me being a broken, broken-hearted person who hadn’t acquired healthy coping mechanisms.

WHAT WAS YOUR MINDSET LIKE WHEN YOU FIRST DECIDED TO CHANGE? When I first started to change, I felt like giving up everyday. I wasn’t aware of how much emotional healing, and spiritual guidance I was in need of, so I went numb. I spent many days angry or sad- not being able to locate the root of it. Coming into a life of sobriety after being reliant on men and substances seemed beyond impossible. With every negative emotion, or glimpse of trauma that resurfaced, I yearned to return to the days of escaping my emotional baggage through having a drink or a smoke. However, the grace and strength of God allowed me to overcome these urges overtime, until the desires left for good.

WHAT HAS KEPT YOU ENCOURAGED AND POSITIVE THROUGHOUT YOUR JOURNEY? First and foremost, God has kept me through this entire journey. Day by day, moment by moment. It was Him who allowed me to see the damage and fruitlessness of serial dating.

It was Him who opened my eyes to see the harm in going through life and wasting my time in a perpetual state of drunkenness or highness. It was Him who put an end to my running from reality, and allowed me to face it head on; only to receive healing and wholeness in Him. Throughout the journey, I stayed positive and encouraged by realizing that it was possible to heal from the hurtful things that led me to that lifestyle. It was encouraging to think of experiencing a life of love, joy, and peace.

HOW HAS YOUR TRANSFORMATION AFFECTED YOU AND OTHERS AROUND YOU? My transformation of walking in sobriety and celibacy has positively impacted not only myself, but my relationships and the quality of each relationship with everyone in my life. Before becoming sober, I was a self-centered, selfish, unreliable, careless, rude, and inconsiderate human being. In young adulthood; I put my parents through too many sleepless nights as I selfishly chased the false high of what drugs and men offered. I maintained onesided friendships and only put effort to keep those around who benefited my toxic lifestyle.

Since becoming sober, I thank God for restoring all of these relationships, and allowing me the second chance to love and serve my family and friends well with the time God has given me on this Earth. My family has expressed their gratitude for my growth, and tell me everyday how much light I add to their life. Whereas years ago, it was quite the opposite.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO HELP OTHERS IN THEIR JOURNEY, AND HOW CAN OTHERS JOIN YOU IN WHAT YOU’RE DOING? To help others in their journey, I transparently and eagerly share my own. I utilize social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube to provide hope, inspiration, and transparency to encourage others who may be in a season of substance abuse, heartbreak, body image issues, lack of faith, and more; and I use the art of storytelling through videos and visuals to easily relay these messages. Others can join in by sharing their own stories, and helping to support the platforms I use to tell mine by watching and sharing the content I create- so that it may reach the right individuals at the right time with increased visibility.

My Youtube and Instagram where I share my health body image, and sobriety journey is: CurvyVeganDiaries.

My personal page where I share my faith and raw life experiences is: @briakay_

AFTER ALL YOUR YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE USAF AND SPACE SHUTTLE PROGRAM, WHAT SPARKED YOUR DESIRE TO WRITE A CHILDREN’S BOOK? Writing a children’s book has been an aspiration of mine for years. My love for reading began at a very young age. As a child I use to love reading stories to my nieces and nephews and that carried over into my adult life as I’ve continued to read to children, in-person and virtually!

Also, while working with the Space Shuttle Program, I was afforded many opportunities throughout my 22-year career to visit schools and community events to share my passion for working with the orange launch and entry spacesuit that was worn by all astronauts who flew on the space shuttle.

So, I already had the book in me, I just needed to put it down on paper.

I’d like to thank two amazing women. The first is my dear friend Natasha Lee, CEO of Make Your Dreams Come True Corp. and That Girl. Natasha asked me what was one of my dreams and I told her I wanted to write a children’s book, but I had no idea where to begin. Natasha helped make my dream come true by connecting me with an experienced author, Annette Smith (Mrs. Annie’s Books) who mentored me through the process. Thank you ladies!!

WHAT DOES “SUIT UP” MEAN TO YOU, AND HOW DOES SHARON “SUIT UP”?

“Suit up” has two meanings for me. The first is obvious; it means preparing the astronaut’s life sustaining crew escape equipment, which includes the suit, and assisting the astronauts in putting on their suit, boots, helmet, gloves, and other equipment. To “suit up” is not only putting the suit on, but also making sure all the equipment is tested and works properly in case there is an emergency aboard the space shuttle, or the astronauts have to escape or bailout from the shuttle.

The second meaning of “suit up” for me is doing just that – suiting up and showing up as my most authentic self, each and every day! I suit up, show up, and sometimes I even show out!!

WHAT CAN YOUNG READERS AND PARENTS EXPECT FROM SHAY? In my very first children’s book titled Suit Up for Launch with Shay! readers and parents can expect to learn about the orange spacesuit and some of the ways astronauts prepare for their trip to space in a fun, entertaining way. I explain the suit in a way that a child can easily understand, answering some of the main questions children would ask when I’d give a suit demonstration when I visited schools – Why is the suit orange? What is it made of? How long does it take to put it on? How do you go to the bathroom in it? - just to name a few. Many adults will probably have a “wow” moment reading my book as well. Suit Up for Launch with Shay! is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KNGDV66/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_ fabc_KF0RD5FRE3KBKM2V236B BEING A MODERN-DAY HIDDEN FIGURE, WHAT GROWTH HAVE YOU WITNESSED IN YOUR FIELD AND WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE FOR THE UPCOMING GENERATIONS? Unfortunately, my time working with the space program came to an end when the space shuttle program ended in 2011, so I can’t really speak on what’s happening in the space industry as an insider. But I’m proud to say that during my time there I was able to create a more diverse workforce in my department by hiring more people of color.

As for what I’d like to see for upcoming generations – I’d love to see even more Black children taking an interest in STEM fields. They should be aware of the various opportunities in the space industry and not shy away from those opportunities. They should network and make connections, get a mentor, decide what they want to do and go for it! But to accomplish any of these things the first thing they will have to do is suit up, show up, and show out! And remember that space is for everyone!

CARLOTTA TAYLOR founder

Somebody Step In was established as a charity in 2014 and as a non profit organization in 2019 by Founder, Carlotta Taylor. SSI caters to foster youth, aged out foster youth and disadvantaged children. The mission is to provide a source of help through counseling, caring, and assistance in moving forward in life in a positive and healthy manner.

Our last public function was Christmas of 2020 where we held a toy drive for foster youth. Our next upcoming event is partaking in a youth conference in December of 2021, additional details to be announced.

ANDREA

BLACKLEY

ANDREA BLACKLEY is the owner and designer of the innovative clothing brand, AB Originals. Since she was 8 years old, she’s always had a keen eye, and love for style and fashion. Being raised by a fashionable single mother, one of her favorite moments of her childhood, is when her mom would go “Spring Shopping” for new clothes. It would always be a big event because Andrea would be spontaneously surprised after coming home from school, and finding a bed full of clothes laid out for her. “Christmas in Spring”, as she called it, was always one of her favorite times of the year. As an only child, this was definitely one of the benefits of not having any siblings. But it was also the birth of her infatuation with fashion.

W W W . G E T S I T U A T E D . S H O P

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Amateurs practice a shot until they make it.

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YOUR Value

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PHILANDER

R. WILLIAMS

Executive Director, TeamPositive, INC. 501(c)(3)

“Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised” Proverbs 31:30

the value of

BEING SINGLE with Great Expectations Being single IS NOT a death sentence, NOT an indication of worth, nor is it an indication or a source of incompleteness.

Being single is a time that should be used effectively and efficiently. This precious time should be spent first and foremost, focusing on and nurturing a personal and intimate relationship with God. Because we will most certainly need a SOLID foundation as we wait to be found by our husband(women) or to find your wife(men), as we date with a Godly purpose and unquestionably once we enter into the ministry of marriage.

There is value in being single with GREAT EXPECTATIONS. Personally, it started with a transformation of my thought process(mentality). I had to start living a Roman 12:2 lifestyle and stop conforming to the patterns of this world in order to be transformed. I had to allow my mind to be renewed into a WIFE...not a girlfriend... not a “friend”...not someone who would except being in a “rotation” with other women. The value extends beyond just the visible things about me. The value runs deeper than the natural eye can see. It is written in the Book of Genesis that God created us in His likeness and in His image.

So, I live as though I know that I am valued by my God who cherished me enough that He wanted me to “resemble” Him and I should be valued by the person that He created to be in my life.

the value of

BEING SINGLE with Great Expectations

That significance started with me valuing myself as a single Christian woman and making up my mind that I would NOT settle for anything less than God’s best for my life and not what I would categorize as “best”, but GOD’S BEST! As I stand in GREAT EXPACTIONS, I stand on a truth of sexual purity and will not engage in sex until marriage – #TeamPurity. Now I am sure that that truth eliminates over 50% of the male population as a potential prospect of being my husband.

So many people are led by the flesh, not the spirit and live accordingly. I’ve accepted, that I cannot expect someone to accept something that they don’t understand if they are not journeying their own sexual abstinent lifestyle. The one(s) NOT sent by God, won’t value this truth and I am ok with that. It is written in 1 Corinthians 6 that my body is a TEMPLE of the Holy Spirit which I received from God; it is not my own and that I should flee sexual immorality.

As a single Christian woman with GREAT EXPECTATIONS, I empower you to invest in yourself. Because there’s a return on that investment which can’t be measured and embraces value – whether single or married. Intentionally pray that God will lead and guide you to the passion and purpose that He’s planted in you for His glory. Seek God’s will for your life. Spend some time becoming that which you desire to see in your spouse, because we are truly what we attract.

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

the value of

BEING SINGLE with Great Expectations

It is written in Genesis 2:18 that the LORD God said that it is not good for the man to be alone and He would make a helper suitable for him. Spend time investing in becoming “suitable”; meaning right or appropriate for a particular person, purpose, or situation. Ask yourself the million-dollar question … “Would I marry me?”

As a single Christian woman with GREAT EXPECTATIONS, I also empower you to know that to a blessed man - not a lucky man, you are his good thing and his bridge to favor. It’s written in Proverbs 18:22 that he who finds a WIFE, finds a good thing AND obtains favor from the Lord. Study the Godly duties of a wife, pray and seek Godly mentors and counsel, fast and pray without ceasing in your season(s) of singleness for insight and revelations about being the wife that God created you to be! Read daily devotionals in conjunction with God’s word and equip yourself with His gear and live abundantly as Jesus came that you may.

Determine what constitutes your “best life” and live it. Find your completion in God and God alone because He is your ONLY source of eternal completeness; everything else is temporary. It is my sincere prayer that on your journey through singleness you live, enjoy it, and maximize it. And at the appointed time, God will make that divine introduction all for His glory.

HELLOBLACKMAN.COM

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

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EVERYONE HAS A STORY OF HOW THEY MET THEIR BELOVED. IN ITS OWN UNIQUE, SOMETIMES QUIRKY WAY, THE LOVE STORY HAS THE ABILITY TO PENETRATE ANY HEART. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO BE MARRIED OR ALREADY VESTED, SHARE YOUR STORY WITH US! OUR TEAM WILL CHOOSE THE TOP FIVE SUBMISSIONS. YOU WILL BE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE.

REQUIREMENTS: - Submit a summary of your story in 700 words or less. Let us know why you feel your story is beautiful.

- Send your full name(s) - Send a serious picture and a fun picture of you both.

- LMPTHEREVIEWMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM

20 TOUGH QUESTIONS WITH A HIGH RETURN Of the tens of thousands of choices that you make during the day, consider your current position and ask yourself “Am I answering the right questions?” Your results are a direct reflection of your choices, and those choices are based on the questions that you answer. Take time to answer the following questions. Allow yourself to be honest. What you give in response will yield an even greater return.

1 - WHAT DO YOU WANT? 2 - WHY DO YOU WANT IT? 3 - WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO SACRIFICE TO HAVE IT? 4 - HOW BIG DO YOU WANT TO DREAM? 5 - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO ENVISION? 6 - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO SERVE? 7 - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO BELIEVE? 8 - HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO FORGET? 9 - WILL YOU BE MORE AFRAID (WITH REVERENCE) OF LOOSING THE OPPORTUNITY THAN FEAR OF THE OBSTACLE ITSELF? 10 - WILL YOU REFUSE TO GIVE YOURSELF A PLAN OF RETREAT? 11 - WILL YOU REFUSE TO DIE IN THE PRESENCE OF RESOURCES? 12 - WHAT RESOURCES WILL YOU CHOOSE TO HONOR? 13 - WILL YOU EMBRACE TIME AS THE GIFT THAT IT IS? 14 - WHO DO YOU NEED TO FORGIVE? 15 - WILL YOU FORGIVE YOUR OFFENDER AND COVER THE OFFENSE WITH LOVE 16 - WILL YOU EMBRACE FAILURE AS A GIFT? 17 - WILL YOU CHOOSE TO BELIEVE THE TRUTH ABOUT YOURSELF? 18 - WILL YOU CHOOSE TO LOVE AT ALL TIMES? 19 - WILL YOU KEEP GOD AS THE SOURCE? 20 - WHAT IS YOUR RESPONSE TO GOD ASKING, “WHAT SHALL I DO FOR THEE?”

WHY DO WE DO THIS PUBLICATION FOR FREE - to shine a light on husbands and wives positively working in partnership - to edify others in business, community, ministry etc - to provide readers with real-life examples & tools to apply in their own lives

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