MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE - THE ICONIC ISSUE - Simone I. Smith

IN EVERY ISSUE 09 08 07 06 78

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR THE LORD'S PRAYER CONTRIBUTORS MASTHEAD PRAYER OF SALVATION

F

JANUARY 2022 ICONIC ISSUE VOL. 6 NO.1

FEATURES 10 GOD’S FAVOR Our quarterly picks of

our favorites within Arts & Entertainment.

12 THE GIRLFRIEND'S CORNER MB's

favorite girlfriend shares her take on The Sweetest Revenge and how to not allow chaos to derail you.

16 MIRACLES STILL HAPPEN “Why Me?” The question all may ask in the face of devastating news. Walonza “Mekia” Hall shares her testimony of hope and survival.

42 LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE A conversation with Monyetta Shaw-Carter on Being Sifted Through the Fingers of Time.

50 COMMUNITY CALLING WITH MB MAGAZINE MB Mag is hitting the streets

and popping up at our reader’s events. Learn more about Emerge Lux Retreat and Erica’s Table of 20.

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TA BLE OF

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Contents 76

DEVOTIONAL 76 BROKEN CRAYONS STILL COLOR Author and Founder of Broken Crayons Still Color, Toni Collier delivers a message of hope and healing beyond brokenness.

ON THE COVER 18 SIMONE I. SMITH:

The word ICON has multiple meanings. In this issue, you will learn why our beautiful cover feature embodies the definition of that word.

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT 54 MANNA FOR THE MIND

Tari Cox, MA - “What Didn’t You Say?” The Omniscience of God and an Unpopular Face of Shame.

FOOD & TRAVEL

58 SPIRIT

60 SHOP, PREP, DINE

Marquita Moore - Year of the Soul A soliloquy on being fully present and aware while allowing the Holy Spirit to awaken you.

Not only do we have a savory dish to share, but you will also learn more about KitchenCray, one of the DMV’s palate pleasing hot spots.

56 QUI 2 HEALTH

62 ADVERTORIAL

Quianna Lashea - Where Do I Start? Our fitness contributor shares how new fitness goals don’t only start in the gym.

Dream Hollywood, superb amenities, delicious food, and the backdrop for this issue’s cover shoot with Simone I. Smith.

68 THE MORNING AFTER

Our team shares their personal experiences with the host hotel, Dream Hollywood.

STYLE & GRACE 70 BEAUTY

LeAnne Dlamini - Our first international contributor from South Africa will bring us beauty tips and tricks all year. But First, Skincare …

72 DESIGN

Tamara Bradshaw - We couldn’t be more thrilled to have expert design pointers from Tamara. This issue, she’s sharing how to Refresh Your Home for the New Year.

74 THRIFTING Ty Harper - If you have seen her

work, you know Ty can make anything picture perfect. This year we’re going to learn how to thrift with one of the best in the game.

64 Romans 8:28

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A SPECIAL CONVERSATION WITH MONYETTA SHAW- CARTER

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CATEGORY

EDITORIAL Editor-In- Chief Stacy Sorrell-Moore Editorial Director April Daniels

Manging Editor Denise L Griffin

Creative Cover Director & Cover Feature Photographer Robin V / robinvphotography.com Art Design & Direction Jo Smoot, Bridgette West of 79West Creative / 79westcreative.com Editorial Stylist Joyce Sheffield of On and Off The Runway / onandofftherunwayboutique.com Senior Editor Karen Steinmann

Editor Brittany Clubine

COLUMNISTS April Daniels / www.officialaprildaniels.com Tari Cox, M.A. / www.taricox.com Quianna Lashea/ www.qui2health.com CONTRIBUTORS Marquita Moore, Tamara Bradshaw, LeAnne Dlamini, Ty Harper MEDIA Video/Multimedia Tony Pettiford of Clear Scope Media www.clearscopemedia.com MARKETING/ADVERTISING Social Media Bridgette West of 79 West Creative PUBLIC RELATIONS Michelby Whitehead of Michelby & Co. www.michelby.com EVENT PRODUCERS Mena & Shantee Wright of Wright Productions www.wrightprods.com Keep up with us! @thembmag 6 MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE

BEHIND THE STORY

Toni Emehel @toni.emehel Breath and Bones

April Daniels

@iamaprildaniels The Girlfriend’s Corner

Meet Our Contributors In every issue, each woman here desires to cheer you on. She understands your struggles. Gets your pain.

Helps you know you’re not alone. Shares her authentic faith. And uplifts you to the heavens! She helps you soar ... and become who God created you to be.

Toni Collier @tonijcollier Devotional

Marquita Moore @howigrewtoday Year of the Soul

Ty Harper

Tari Cox, M.A.

Quianna Lashea

@xarcito Manna for the Mind

@qui2health Where Do I Start?

LeAnne Dlamini

Denise L. Griffin

Tamara Bradshaw

@ty_artlover Thrifting

@iamleanned Beauty

@iamdenisegriffin Advertorial

@tamarabradshaw_home Design

The Lord's Prayer

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

MATTHEW 6:9-13

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EDITOR'SLETTER

ear Readers,

I still stand here in amazement, marveling at what God has done with His magazine. At first, I believed He called me to create just a pamphlet, a small leaflet-type of medium. Never have I been so thrilled to be incorrect. We are beginning 2022 with The Iconic Issue and Mrs. Simone I. Smith. The word “Icon” has many definitions, but the one that stands out to me is this: a person or thing that is highly revered. All things are a matter of perspective, right? When I think about what’s Mind Blowing about our cover feature, it’s what lies within her that is so reverenceworthy … her unwavering faith! As you flip through these pages, you'll learn more about how she became who God prepared her to be, and you’ll understand why she reflects such a beautiful representation of an “Iconic Woman.” We also had a conversation with Monyetta Shaw-Carter. The grace in which she moved through life’s challenges led her right to her happily-ever-after. In addition to the powerhouse Women of God already mentioned, God continues to Blow my Mind! He has brought us five women who are on fire for Him and are bringing their gifts to MB Mag to bless you! Please help me welcome Toni Emehel, Marquita Smith, Ty Harper, Tamara Bradshaw, and our first international contributor, LeAnne Dlamini. To round it off, Toni Collier bestows us with a devotion that will bless your soul. As I write this, knowing all that God has done and catching a glimpse of what He’s doing in 2022 already has me filled with so much excitement and expectancy! I pray you are blessed and encouraged as you turn each page and take in the message of love that God has allowed us to prepare for you.

20 BE SURE TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL @THEMBMAG

y c a t xo,S

STACY SORRELL-MOORE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us ...” —Psalm 90:17a God’s Favor presents our Arts & Entertainment picks, each selected to highlight the beauty and brilliance of God’s creativity in motion.

Through the splendor of the creative arts, we can draw closer to God and see His unmerited grace — His favor — delighting our hearts, connecting us to one another, and refreshing our souls.

Tameka Farriér

AVA I L A B L E N O W AT TA M E K A FA R R I E R . C O M

AUTHOR/SPEAKER

Had it not been for God, I would not be the woman I am now, nor would I be where I am today. I was a confused, broken, hurt woman. I was lost and struggling after my children and husband took ill. Then, realizing God is bigger than my problems, I became a faithful, God-fearing Author, Life Coach, and Motivational Speaker sharing God’s Word one day at a time.

Without God, I am nothing!

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GOD'S FAVOR

Kingdom Story Company ENTREPRENUERS/FILM MAKERS Kingdom Story Company is a “moviemaking and creative entertainment studio focused on telling meaningful stories that inspire and impact people.” Their mission is to create “lifeimpacting stories from a variety of talented storytellers.” Their first movie, I Can Only Imagine, tells the story behind the popular song by the same name. Their newest film American Underdog tells the true, inspirational story of Kurt and Brenda Warner.

These family-friendly stories inspire us and our faith and we think they will do the same for you.

JON ERWIN

ANDY ERWIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHURCHLEADERS.COM

N O W P L AY I N G I N T H E AT E R S E V E RY W H E R E

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THE GIRLFRIEND'S CORNER

by APRIL DANIELS photography by ROBIN V. styling by JOYCE SHEFFIELD

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CATEGORY

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if...

If you’re anything like me, at the start of a new year I find I want to hit the reset button in areas of my life, tossing old ways from the previous year that wore me down, rebooting many tried and true habits, and grasping onto the possibilities of the new. And if that’s not enough to focus on in the beginning of 2022, I think we all have reached our limit on experiencing the effects of COVID-19: all the traces of uncertainty, new variants, sickness, and untimely loss. As much as I’d like to say “throw away the entire year,” I myself even have to pause in making that statement because God can use it all. Let’s face it: all of us have taken a moment to question out loud, what the heck is going on? From the concern and worry alone, many have derailed from their faith or become comfortable snuggling with doubt as the colder season moves in. So many layers can easily attach itself to us, perhaps tipping the scale to a wavering faith, distant goals, and slept on dreams.

But throwing in the towel at the sight of uncertainty or curling up in a corner to watch your purpose die because the plan took a hard left is never an option. The thing about strength is you don’t know how strong you are until you have to use it, so this exact place is where you use everything you have to cancel out the lies about the power of God’s purpose He placed in you.

We don’t get to choose the plan, but we do get to choose to be obedient to the promise.

What am I saying? Girl! Get up every day you can, ready for action! Show up daily, even if you have to do it scared because His Word doesn’t return void. Every day I tell myself I have an empire to build, and if it takes me brick by brick to do it, that’s what I will be committed to. It’s a new year and, yeah, maybe things have been altered in some way. But don’t be that one who needs to see proof before you believe He will meet you in the middle of whatever you are experiencing. Even with the setbacks, God will fulfill the purpose He placed in you because He gave it to you. I’m going to keep it a buck. I have some pretty big dreams left in me that I will not give up on, regardless of what my past reflects.

Nor am I going to allow the experience to swallow up time and occupy space, making it harder to become the best version of myself. Stay the course and become more intentional with what you choose to believe instead of what the circumstance reflects.

Timely revelations required me to adopt a specific mindset, not to embrace the idea of a vibrant future but to embrace it with expectancy.

But most of us know in those moments of uncertainty and shaky faith that the enemy thrives to get in there and occupy any space that allows him to drive fear and doubt further into the equation, losing any sight of victory and inching up the worry factor. Listen, let me be the first to say with the traumatic loss I experienced in 2019, followed by the past two years, I definitely had moments where I thought I lost it all. Because what was staring back at me was the evidence from reality that pulled the plug on everything I had planned.

Yet, at times I was crazy enough to believe that more blessings lay in store for me instead of believing the lies of the devil.

However, timely revelations required me to adopt a specific mindset, not only to embrace the idea of a vibrant future but to embrace it with expectancy. You know the times when God decides to stretch you to a new level without notice while, at the same time, you’ve lost your ability to wrap your head around what to do next. It’s an unsettling feeling when the life scenario staring at you doesn’t reflect the type of promise you once knew well, and at that point the enemy feels he has the advantage of robbing you of that same hopeful promise.

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The sweetest revenge on the lies of the enemy is choosing to show up ready! In the times of uncertainty, disappointment, and delay, result to the Word, worship, and surrounding yourself with people who look like where you want to be. Not the things or people who will make you sink deeper into disbelief. The thing about purpose is it doesn’t go away, but I do believe we can take a few unnecessary turns when we aren’t aligned with the Word. But even with that, God loves us so much He can still use it all.

So, look chick! Don’t let the clutter, chaos, or disruptions we are experiencing be the bible you read from. You are so valuable to the body of Christ, and that empire I talked about for myself ... girl, He has one for you, too. So, keep building, and I’ll see you at the top!

Why MIRACLES STILL HAPPEN

Me?

told by WALONZA "MEKIA" HALL

I

want to talk about how God delivered me from death. Lots of sickness has occurred in my family, whether it be mental illness, drug addiction, cancer, or diabetes. However, I dealt with stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer.

It came out of nowhere. I have always tried to take care of myself, and at the time, I didn't understand what was happening to me. I thought I had peripheral edema because that was the doctor’s first diagnosis. But months later, I found out I was walking around with cancer the entire time. I received the new update, and the doctors told me I had three to five months to live. Can you even imagine?

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THE NEWS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE ….

I was with my mom when I was first diagnosed with cancer.

I picked my parents up from their vacation, and they immediately told me, “You have to go back to the hospital.

You look worse than you did before we left.” It was a very scary day for me. I signed to release my medical forms from one hospital and checked myself into one of Chicago’s top hospitals.

When the biopsy came back that I had stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer, the doctors told me they were surprised I had been able to go about daily life for so long.

They said, “We need to admit you right away; you’re really sick.”

MIRACLES STILL HAPPEN

I remember a beautiful encounter with God. This particular morning, I was staying in this really big, corner hospital room. Suddenly, it felt as if God was right in the room with me. So brightly and clearly, I remember Him telling me, “Hold On, It’s Going To Be Okay.” It was as if I was feeling His smile.

A big, huge smile that was so real.

They didn’t expect me to live more than three to five months.

Even with the diagnosis, I didn’t think it was cancer right away.

I thought, “Oh, I must have something similar to cancer.” I was in complete denial. I couldn’t imagine how this could happen to me. I have always been obedient, respectful, and kind. I kept thinking “No, not me, this can’t be.”

My treatments were very difficult, and it felt as though each moment was a lifetime. I received two of the most aggressive chemo drugs, 11 blood transfusions, 13 weeks of pelvis radiation, and three weeks of brain radiation. Yes. Look at God. All at one time, I was on up to 12 medications and blood thinners. On top of the cancer, I was also battling colitis, which is a form of Crohn's disease. The drugs had me so delirious and were very hard on my body. This went on for over a year.

I remember crying and asking God, “Why me?”

To say I felt hopeless is an understatement. I was so lost, hurt, and afraid, and felt like God didn’t love me. I knew that God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, in my head, but I lost sight of it. Yet, through it all, He was faithful; He was so incredible. I was blessed with great doctors and a loving family, who covered me with lots of prayer. It is the only thing that got me through. To this day, I am thankful to Jesus and to all those who were praying for me when I wasn’t able to do so. It brings me to tears just thinking about how good the Lord is to me.

For a time in that season, I remember yelling and even screaming at God. I didn’t understand why this happened to me. The Bible talks about punishment for disobedience, but I was never that way. I felt like I

had done all these good things, yet I was the one who got cancer. It is still hard to wrap my mind around it. Yes, I had some deep issues with God. All this anger kept me from being able to pray for a while.

But then Pastor Harvey Richardson told me something I’ll never forget. He said, “You have to start praying for yourself.” This was an important moment for me because I needed God to know that I cared about my own life.

So, I began praying this prayer: “I praise your name, Jesus. I love You, Lord. Help me, Father!” I still pray these same prayers today.

When I finally opened myself back up to the Lord, I found peace.

When I decided to fight instead of feeling sorry for myself, I was able to rest. The moment I began to talk to my Heavenly Father, I was able to make peace with the process. Once I did all of that, I felt my body healing.

One day when I was in the hospital, I remember a beautiful encounter with God. This particular morning, I was staying in this really big, corner hospital room. Suddenly, it felt as if God was right in the room with me. So brightly and clearly, I remember Him telling me, “Hold On, It’s Going To Be Okay.” It was as if I was feeling His smile. A big, huge smile that was so real. I remember feeling a love so deep and so real, it is hard to describe.

I finally felt hope. I would remind myself “Girl, you come from a line of overcomers and fighters.” Cancer did not define me, and I was crazy to think that I couldn’t get through it. Cancer is just a thing, and I am more than this thing. While there were times my faith decreased, I know for certain that through this experience my faith was increased.

I used to believe that bad things wouldn’t happen to good people, and I now understand how wrong that was.

God allows His people to go through hard times in order to prepare us for the work He has called us to do. I know that God allowed me to go through this for a purpose. God is so amazing. I know this journey wasn’t just for me because we don’t live only for ourselves. God delivered me, and I am so grateful to share my story. I am blessed to still be here and healed. My new “why” for living this life lies in a simple truth: if any time I can be a help or give word to somebody, I receive it and know it is truly a gift.

I just celebrated my 10-year remission anniversary. I still struggle to find peace as this still feels almost like a dream, but I know God is always walking with me. Trouble does not always last. God can bring great things from the worst circumstances, even when we can’t see it. I pray that every hurt heart would trust God’s promises. “He will never leave you nor forsake you.” I would encourage anyone walking through hard times to talk to God. Pray to Him like He is your friend because He is. Trust in the Lord and walk with Him. God did an amazing work in my life, and I am healed. If He can do it for me, He can do it for you.

Lastly, remember these words from Proverbs: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV).

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I.Smith

BREATH & BONES

Bossing up in the New Year with wisdom and life-changing revelation from the original “Around the Way Girl.” authored by TONI E. EMEHEL photography by ROBIN V. styling by JOYCE SHEFFIELD

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COVER STORY

“I called my grandmother and said, ‘Oma, what I saw was in my bones …’” In an instant, overwhelming silence poured into the room as MB Magazine sat down with entrepreneur, designer, philanthropist and cancer survivor Simone I. Smith. She also happens to be the wife of Todd Smith, professionally known as LL COOL J — pioneer hip-hop artist, multi-Grammy and NAACP Image Award winner, NCIS Los Angeles cast member, and legendary music producer.

At that moment MB Magazine realized that sitting at the table with Mrs. Simone I. Smith was going to harvest a different conversation.

Why? Because when you sit with a woman whose anchoring moments caused her to temporarily lose functionality of her limbs, rendering her an open book for the world to see what she was carrying inside, you not only pull up to the table… but also lean in and pin your ears back so as not to miss one word.

The Simone I. Smith narrative will leave you inspired, with an increased level of knowledge and accountability to self, to those connected to you, and to God. Engage with this text because all too often we see the media hype surrounding icons like Simone and her husband, Todd Smith, never realizing the story behind the story of their iconic influence.

Simone and Todd share a similar story: they were both raised by their grandparents. While varying reasons exist as to why God allowed circumstances to mandate a nontraditional home environment for them both, the only explanation that matters is that both were carrying something in the fiber of their being that God could not entrust to just anyone to nurture and develop. Thus, at a very young age, Simone was handed over to her grandmother by God. While Simone’s mother was in the picture, Oma was the primary influence in Simone’s life. In the fullness of time, it would be Oma who ensured that Simone developed both a prayer life and a faith stronger than Simone’s toughest opposition.

MB Magazine asked Simone, What makes you boss? And without hesitation Simone set the record straight: “I was raised by my grandparents to be God-fearing. I am boss because I believe God.” As a believer, Simone’s faith came under attack in 2004 when she was diagnosed with stage 3 chondrosarcoma, a rare bone cancer affecting her right tibia bone. Though initially doctors shared limited information with Simone, she felt within herself that something serious was taking place in her body.

MB Magazine: “From the time you discovered a tumor was growing in your leg, how did you pivot from the shock and devastation of learning you had stage 3 chondrosarcoma?”

SIMONE I. SMITH: “I first learned that something was wrong with my leg when Todd and I were preparing for Patti LaBelle's 60th birthday party. I had my legs waxed because I was going to shine them up to complement this cute Marc Jacobs sequined dress I had.

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COVER STORY

I was expecting my legs to be super soft after the wax, but I kept touching my right leg because it felt kind of hard. I said to my sister Sloan, ‘Do you feel a knot right here?’ It was a small hard knot that was very faint. Sloan couldn’t feel anything and she thought I was just bugging, but I felt what I felt. After all, we were playing backgammon and drinking margaritas!

“About a month later, I was training with my trainer on the leg press, and it felt like my leg was going to break. Shortly thereafter, I hit my leg on a wastebasket while walking across my kitchen floor. The wastebasket was high enough that it hit right on the spot where I felt the hard knot. The area swelled and remained swollen for three days, causing me to go to the doctor’s office to have the area examined and X-rayed. The doctor observed the swelling, looked at the X-rays, told me not to do any lower body activity, and sent me home.

“Instinctively, I felt like there was more than the doctor was telling me. On the way home I called my grandmother and informed her I had my leg X-rayed. I told her that what I saw was in my bone. Oma asked, ‘Where are you?’ I told her I was in the car. She said, ‘Okay, the first thing we are going to do is pray.

But the first thing you are going to do is ask God to help you to stop cussing.’”

That was the pivot as soul-stirring laughter began to infuse the room, with Simone continuing to recall those pivotal moments with her grandmother. Oma knew the value of going to God with clean hands and a clean heart. So, just as doctors tapped in to diagnose what was inside Simone’s leg, God would tap into Simone’s heart and diagnose what lay inside. Oma knew. That is why she did what only Oma could: shift Simone’s internal dialogue. Because of the time they had invested together, Simone and Oma were both prepared for the impartation of wisdom shared on that day.

BONE OF MY BONES Simone’s husband, Todd Smith, wanted to be in the foxhole with his wife during the most challenging experience of her life.

Simone recalls sentiments shared by her husband at the doctor’s office: SIMONE I. SMITH: “When doctors were describing the surgery and recovery process of taking the fibula bone from my left leg to replace the tibia bone in my right leg, my husband stopped them. Todd asked, ‘Why can’t you just take my fibula bone and give it to my wife? It’s bigger and stronger.’ The doctors were surprised by Todd’s request. They looked at him and told

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him, ‘You are the first husband to offer his bone to his wife.’”

That spoke volumes of the man God created Todd to be. But for his upbringing under the primary care of his grandparents, Todd’s response in that moment might have been different.

Everything in Todd’s past prepared him to be an extension of God’s hand in the life of his wife in that moment. From teenage sweethearts to foxhole companions in the throes of life, Simone and Todd have shown themselves to be truly fused together ...

“Flesh of my flesh, bone of my bones” personified.

While Simone pressed through with her faith under attack, God showed Himself to be true in Simone’s life. Sure, He surrounded her with skilled doctors whom He hand-selected to operate in their respective specialties. But God showed Simone that He placed everything she needed inside her own body; gave her an understanding husband to shepherd the process; and inspired Oma to nudge her along in her faith, which ultimately positioned Simone to manifest the inner strength she required to survive.

The Simone I. Smith narrative was perfectly penned by none other than God Himself! — from her masterful creation inside her mother’s womb to knitting her to a husband with the capacity to love her as much (if not more) than he loves himself.

After all, how many husbands do you know who would willingly, without being asked, offer to give one of the strongest parts of themselves to make their wife’s life better? Now that’s what you call “Bossing Up”!

Unknowingly, what Todd expressed in that moment comforted and assured Simone that she was not alone in the fight. Though Todd was not able to medically give Simone his bone, he gave her so much more. He gave her confidence. He gave her security.

Most importantly, he gave her love.

In the days to follow, Todd banded around Simone to shield her from anything and anyone that threatened her faith and her healing process.

TRUSTING GOD THROUGH THE PROCESS MB MAGAZINE: “Since faith has always been an integral part of your life, how did experiencing such a rare cancer strengthen your faith or change it?”

SIMONE I. SMITH: “I was 34 years old at the time I was diagnosed. It was a chondrosarcoma, ‘chondro’ meaning cartilage, contained in my right tibia bone. The condition required me to undergo microvascular reconstructive surgery, wherein doctors removed my right tibia bone and replaced it

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COVER STORY

with my left fibula bone. The reconstruction process also required doctors to remove all the micro veins connected to my left fibula and place them in my right leg as part of the reconstruction. In essence, they rebuilt my right leg from the knee all the way down to my ankle. The surgery was supposed to take seven hours, yet it actually took fifteen. But it was a success. Since the chondrosarcoma was contained in the bone, I did not require chemotherapy.

I was so accustomed to doing things for myself. I took care of my children. I took care of my husband.

I cooked. I was the one who took my daughter Tali to basketball and soccer; Nina Symone had dance school and Najee was in art school. I thought to myself, ‘What is going on here? I can’t do this.’ BUT I did it.

“The first six days following the surgery, my medical team came in every hour to listen for a pulse in my leg. This was important because if the pulse stopped, that meant my leg would have died. But God had another plan. God was like, ‘That pulse is going to pulsate, and it's going to keep pulsating!’ And here I am 17 years later … my pulse is still going.”

Simone chuckles as she recalls overhearing conversations between her husband and family members who were calling to check up on her after the surgery: “When I first came home, my right leg had to be on an incline for six weeks. My husband was very protective of me and would not let anybody come to the house. I had two nurses at the house with me.

They had to take me to the bathroom. Now, I ain't going to lie. I broke down a couple of times and started crying because I didn't want nobody helping me go to the bathroom.

I didn't want that. I felt like, this is insane! I was so accustomed to doing things for myself.

I took care of my children. I took care of my husband. I cooked. I was the one who took my daughter Tali to basketball and soccer; Nina Symone had dance school and Najee was in art school. I thought to myself, ‘What is going on here? I can’t do this.’ BUT I did it.

“During the time when Todd allowed folks to come to the house to see me, he would tell them, ‘If you are coming to see Simone and you have to cry, you got to go home.’ My husband is a man who believes in positive thinking. He was not allowing any negativity around me during my recovery process. He constantly reminded me that, ‘I need you. The kids need you. You got this. Ain’t nobody coming around here that is going to be negative.’ There were certain people that we know, known to smoke cigarettes. Todd would tell them, ‘If you been

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smoking before you come over here, you can’t come see Simone.’ Todd wasn’t playing.

Because the wound on my leg was still open, the doctors warned against being around anyone who smokes. Todd was the gatekeeper who kept anything and anyone that would stand in the way of my recovery at bay.

“My rehabilitation was two and a half years. I had to learn how to walk again. I went from a wheelchair to two crutches, to one crutch, to a cane, to cane-free. Thank you, Jesus! I was humbled through the process and my faith was strengthened because God showed me the power of my inner strength.”

MB MAGAZINE: “So, you beat cancer. You teamed up with the American Cancer Society in 2018 with your Beat Cancer Like a Boss Campaign. How do you bring that energy and mindset to other areas of your life?”

SIMONE I. SMITH: “I have always had a boss mentality. I’m not trying to toot my own horn; God made me that way. I am a boss at home. I am a boss with Simone I. Smith jewelry. I am a boss when it comes down to my children. I am a boss when it comes down to my fashion. I am a boss at church. I am boss because I believe God; that makes me Boss.

When you are boss, you own it.

MB MAGAZINE: “Did going through cancer, beating it, and relearning to walk help you to tap into what was always there?”

SIMONE I. SMITH: “Yes, because God knew that was going to happen before I was born. And He knew I was going to be able to pull myself through it by tapping in. He knew all that. He knew I was going to design jewelry and give back to the American Cancer Society through my Sweet Touch of Hope Lollipop Collection.”

MB MAGAZINE: “He also placed everyone in your life that you would need to go through the process.”

SIMONE I. SMITH: YES, my husband; Dr. Rich, Dr. Edward Athanasian, my trainer; my support system of family and friends … everybody. People look at me and say that was luck … No, that was God. All God.

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My rehabilitation was two and a half years. I had to learn how to walk again. I went from a wheelchair to two crutches, to one crutch, to a cane, to cane-free. Thank you, Jesus! I was humbled through the process and faith was strengthened because God showed me the power of my inner strength.

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COVER STORY

MB MAGAZINE: “How did your experience with cancer lead to the creation of Simone I. Smith jewelry, aka S.I.S.” SIMONE I. SMITH: “Well, actually, with S.I.S someone had actually come to my husband and wanted him to create a lady’s line. So, when he came home and was telling me about it, I got excited. I was like, you can do hoops and I can help you! I have loved hoops since Todd gave me my first pair when I was 17. At that time hoops were hard to find, and if you wanted 14 carat gold hoops, they were very expensive.

“About a week or two after our discussion, Todd was like, ‘I’m not doing this, but if this is something you want to do, you have to do the leg work. You need to find yourself a manufacturer and I will support you.’ When Todd told me that, I was like, okay.

You don’t have to say no more. So, I called my girlfriend Jackie because she worked for a couple that she previously wanted Todd and me to meet. The husband did something with jewelry, but I could not recall exactly what he did.

“So, one day while I was driving home, Jackie calls me and says, ‘I’m here babysitting right now; you should come over and meet them.’ When I walk through the door, the wife, Talley, immediately says, ‘My husband can make those hoops for you in silver and rose gold.’ A short time later her husband Ronnie comes home, and when I meet him, he asks, ‘So, what is it you want to do?’ I respond, ‘I want to bless women until the day I die with hoop earrings. Because I can’t find any good hoop earrings.

“And Ronnie says, ‘So, you need a manufacturer?’ I say, ‘Yes.’ Ronnie responds by saying, ‘Let’s set up a time so you can come see what I do because I’m a jewelry manufacturer.’ The rest is history.

“Ronnie has been a blessing and my business partner since 2009. I have Simone I. Smith jewelry line and The Sister Love Collection: a collaboration with my friend Mary J. Blige. My products are available online at www.simoneismith.com and www.Kohls.com, and I have even been able to make my hoop earrings economically accessible by creating a special line of products carried by Walmart. I have even designed jewelry products for men.”

LEAVING A LEGACY “It is very important for me as a woman to leave a legacy for my children, my grandchildren, and my grandchildren’s children.”

MB MAGAZINE: “So here you are, you have this incredible jewelry line, and you could have just continued with S.I.S and your Sweet Touch of Hope Lollipop Line, but you wanted to Boss Up and bring the ladies some beauty.”

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“It is very important for me as a woman to leave a legacy for my children, my grandchildren, and my grandchildren’s children.”

SIMONE I. SMITH: “Yes, I have a lash studio; it’s called Amazing Lash Studio. I partnered with one of my girlfriends, Nancy Davis, who is the franchisee with over 25 years’ experience. God has blessed me to be able to make sure the ladies stay looking good and fabulous. God has blessed me to bless them with jewelry, fabulous earrings, and necklaces. I want them to feel good. Now, I want them to look good. So, that’s where they can get their lashes done. I also recently launched S.I.S Luxe Lacquer, a clean nontoxic line of nail polishes.

“I’ll be honest with you; I have always wanted everybody to feel good, to look good. But more importantly as a woman, 17-year cancer survivor, mother of four, and MoMa of two grandchildren, King James and Faith, it is very important for me to leave a legacy. Not only for my children, but for my grandchildren and my grandchildren’s children. God has blessed me to be able to do that. Not only has He blessed me to survive cancer, but God blessed me to be able to walk again and just be here. For that I am thankful.”

MB Magazine is grateful for the opportunity to share this cover feature with its readers to kickstart 2022. May the Simone I. Smith narrative stay with you in this New Year as a reminder that God not only equips us to overcome life challenges, but also gives us everything we need to reflect His character and His likeness, even when our faith is under attack.

MB Magazine readers, may 2022 be a year of trusting God for you, leveraging the life wisdom gleaned from the life-changing story and testimony of Simone I. Smith to bring God all the glory! To join the Beat Cancer Like A Boss Movement and for additional information on Simone I. Smith Signature Collections, head over to SIMONEISMITH.COM.

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I am a boss at home.

I am a boss with Simone I. Smith jewelry.

I am a boss when it comes down to my children. I am a boss when it comes down to my fashion. I am a boss at church. I am boss because I believe God; that makes me Boss.

When you are boss, you own it.

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A CONVERSATION WITH

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: Being Sifted Through the Fingers of Time

MB Magazine would like to bestow its well wishes and heartfelt congratulations to the now Mrs. Monyetta Shaw-Carter and her newly wedded husband, Mr. Heath Carter! The power couple joined in holy matrimony at the Biltmore Hotel, Atlanta, in November 2021. As founder of The Evan Grace Group, Monyetta is an entrepreneur, author, and actress, known for her roles alongside Samuel L. Jackson and the late Bernie Mac in the movie Soul Men (2008); VH1 Reality Series Atlanta’s Exes; movie thriller Alexander (2020); and upcoming movie release I Wish I Never Met You (2022). To understand the glory behind Monyetta’s story, one would have to understand the relevance of the sifting process that prepared her for this moment.

by TONI E. EMEHEL photography in order by JUSTIN CHRISTOPHER JONES, TAVIA WHITLOWE and CHARLTON INIJE 42 MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE

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MB GLOSSARY

SIFTED

Sift Xed /sifəd/ Adjective.

Meaning: a kind of separation orchestrated by God, ensuring your availability to receive His blessing.

ifting involves agitation to remove those things that do not belong. While bakers use a sifter that passes ingredients through a wire mesh, God uses our life experiences that sift and shake us during seasons of time. Sometimes He must shake us to get us to release the thing (or that someone) that causes our light to shine dimly. When we get tied up in relationships that are not a part of our destiny, God must sift us. The sifting may seem painful, but it makes us available to connect with the people, places, and platforms that God has called us to.

Sifting was at the heart of the profound message that MB Magazine gleaned from its reflective conversation with the newly wedded Mrs. Monyetta Shaw-Carter. This woman is on FIRE! Just weeks after returning from her honeymoon, MB Magazine caught up to the newlywed, and we could see the delight in her smile as she asserted, “It was all worth it. The relationship with Ne-Yo. The wedding that didn’t happen. Navigating the intricacies of coparenting on my own … Yes, to be where I am today, it was all worth it!”

MB Magazine: How did you and Heath Meet?

Monyetta Shaw- Carter: “Our paths crossed briefly at a cousin’s home in 1999.

Then, about four years ago, I was sharing with that cousin some of the challenges I was having with the person I was dating, and she says, ‘Girl, forget him. Call Heath.’ I asked, ‘Who is Heath?’

She tried to spark my memory from the time we met in 1999, but I could not remember

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him. I asked her to send me a picture, and she did. Likewise, she sent a picture of me to Heath. Shortly thereafter, Heath and I were reintroduced, and the rest is history.”

MB Magazine: Most every young girl dreams of growing up and getting married. At 41 years of age, high profile, affluent and strikingly beautiful … you had never been married. What were you believing God for in terms of love and relationship at the time you met Heath?

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “I was blessed to have a two-parent household. I had an awesome childhood. I grew up in a household with siblings. My parents loved each other and enjoyed one another’s company. We lived in a community. My family went to church every week and sometimes two to three times a week. I honestly believed that I would grow up and find an amazing man like my father who would love me through and through, just like my father loved my mother; and we would have an amazing homelife, just like the one my parents provided for me. I just knew that was going to be my life … my happily ever after.”

Having gleaned from the success of her parent’s 49 year marriage, Monyetta had framed a picture of marriage in her mind to give definition to her expectation of marriage.

In her father’s house, Monyetta learned the look of love. How love expresses itself. How love gives, and how love responds. Thinking back, Monyetta expounds, “Everything in my parent’s relationship was not perfect, but they worked through their problems peacefully and contained their conflicts behind closed doors. My siblings and I did not experience the yelling, screaming, and arguing of parents that some of my closest friends experienced in their homes.”

Because of her iconic status, Monyetta’s sifting process was at times public and hurtful as broken relationships came to an end.

Through it all, God strategically positioned Monyetta to enter this next chapter of her life as a wife, mother, bonus-mother, and influencer with His grace and blessings.

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “When I was planning my other wedding, the one that

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didn't happen, there was something about the energy that just did not feel as calming and peaceful as the energy felt while preparing for my nuptials with Heath. With Heath I felt safe. We had become inseparable. I had an overwhelming sense that ‘this,’ my marriage to Heath, was supposed to happen.”

MB Magazine: What element of staying power observed in your parents’ marriage are you taking into your marriage with Heath?

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “Friendship. My parents were best friends. They genuinely liked being around each other. They would balance things out between work and family to ensure they set aside time to just be together. I believe their friendship produced the happiness that my siblings and I saw in their relationship. We were fortunate enough not to see our parents arguing and screaming at one another; rather, we saw them working with one another to balance family life. I am definitely carrying friendship as a priority into my marriage with Heath. It is super important to be friends.”

MB Magazine: What were some things that you and Heath did to deepen your friendship with one another before deciding to get married?

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “We showed up and took our place in each other’s life. We were open and honest with one another about our respective pasts and where we are in our present. We knew we desired a future with each other, and our honesty and openness played a tremendous role in that. We invested time in one another and our children. Heath made time for my children, showing up to soccer games and extracurricular activities, and I likewise began taking on a supportive role in the lives of his children.”

MB Magazine: Going into the marriage, you and Heath each have two children independent of your relationship. Did the two of you include your children in the nuptials?

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “Yes, it was such a magical day. My bonus daughter’s mom gave her blessing for Gianna (Heath’s youngest daughter) to be in the wedding, which made it even more special! It’s awesome to be able to bless the kids with this amazing bonus package of love.

Q+A! MB Magazine: Share with us one of the most memorable moments of your nuptials.

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “I don’t know if I can name just one! My goodness … I'll give you three!”

1 “One was dancing with my father. We did a fun dance to ‘My Girl’ because he has always called me his little girl. Growing up he would always play that song for me.”

2 “My son, Mason, along with my cousin Mark sang a duet to one of my favorite songs, ‘So Amazing’ by Luther Vandross.

When Mason first shared that he wanted to sing the song at my wedding, my heart melted. And when he did, it was truly … so amazing!”

3 “Lastly, during the reception, as Heath and I sat on our raised platform, we could see the entire ballroom. We are in an interracial relationship, and just seeing friends and family of varying ethnicities from all over the world was breathtaking.

We had friends there from Jamaica, Barcelona, Los Angeles, Louisiana. It was such an awesome moment.”

“Just sitting there taking a breath, holding hands, Heath and I looked at each other and took it all in. It was such a beautiful moment, feeling the collective energy of everyone sitting there together, sharing in our celebration of love. I could see it.

Truly, that is what life is all about. This blessing of love. I felt so grateful to the almighty God for even allowing us to experience this great day. It was a day that was meant to be.”

The energy of that day was just overwhelming.

Such amazing support and a true feeling of love. I feel like I manifested that moment because when I did see flashes of it, it looked just like that. Everyone was there: my parents; Heath’s parents. My dad walked me down the aisle, and my mother was sitting there on the front row. It was just beautiful! Magical, if I could describe it with one word.”

TIME /tīm/ Noun. Meaning: the limited commodity of life that God uses to guide each of us to our purpose.

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “My advice to anyone marrying into a blended family would be to keep God first in everything.

Relationships are not always easy and require a lot of work. Trials are going to show themselves, just as they would in a traditional family structure. Expect the rain. It is going to to come, but with God first, you can stand on knowing that ‘this too shall pass.’ You have to believe that whatever the challenge, you can get through by keeping God in the forefront.”

“Oh, and stay out of your own way! I feel like I just about talked myself out of my marriage a few times, all because I had this vision of what I thought it should look like. As a result, I found myself trying to hold onto relationships that I knew were over. When you are in situations like that, you must realize it's not our way, but God’s way. And we must have faith in the unknown, trusting God's Word and His timing.”

“My dad was my voice of reason and my rock while I was waiting on God’s timing. He was my rock, and he kept it real, even when I didn’t want to hear it. He would encourage me, “He just wasn't the one, but God got some somebody for you. This is the time to work on you.” My dad would send me the perfect Scriptures, and they would just shake me.

My eyes would open, and I would say, ‘I’m back. You’re right.’ But sometimes we doubt ourselves. I know I did. Especially while you are going through relationship challenges as publicly as I did. But, through it all, I thank God.” MB Magazine: What does 2022 look like for Mrs. Carter? What's on the horizon?

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Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “God is opening up so many doors for me right now. Some of the doors are doors He previously closed! I guess the timing just wasn’t right then. I’m learning to hear Him when He says, ‘Trust Me, my child. If you wait on my Word, wait on my time, resting in my Word … Just trust me.

It’s going to be even better than it would have been.’” “I feel like God is saying to me, ‘You waited. Now here’s your husband, here is your friend, here is your blended family; now it’s time. Go forth! Be that example.’”

“I’m getting back into my acting and have booked a role in an upcoming movie. I have a new agent, and I'm super excited about life! I also have some more children’s books coming out along with a self-help resource book for co-parenting. It’s a co-parenting planner. It’s in the works and will be released very soon!”

MB Magazine: We are grateful that you have allowed MB Magazine to share in this

God is opening up so many doors for me right now. Some of the doors are doors He previously closed! I guess the timing just wasn’t right then.

I’m learning to hear Him when He says, ‘Trust Me, my child. If you wait on my Word, wait on my time, resting in my Word … Just trust me. It’s going to be even better than it

amazing love story. If there were one thing that you could say you are believing God for in your marriage, what would that be?

Monyetta Shaw-Carter: “I know within my heart that what God is about to do through my life is going to show the masses that God is real. In a world that is so divided, I believe that God handpicked my marriage and relationship with Heath to show the world love. We are from two very different backgrounds, yet God chose us. With God inside of us, we are going to shine so brightly that the world is going to catch on that you can lead with love. I am believing God that Heath and I are going to be a positive example to spread love and change lives.”

MB Magazine is grateful for the opportunity to join our faith with that of Monyetta and Heath Carter as they embark upon this journey of sharing hope and love throughout the world. It is our prayer that lives will be changed and families will grow closer as a result of the example set by the Carter family.

would have been.’”

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Community Calling What a year we had! 2021 was full of love, lessons, and laughter here at MB Mag! As God moved us through last year, He clearly exemplified His word: Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us…

In 2021, His power was undoubtedly at work within us. Only in His strength was any of this possible! This year, we want to apply the lessons we were taught and bring laughter and love to the people. We’ve had the opportunity to get out in these streets and see all that God is doing in and through some of our MBM extended family of followers and readers. We look forward to all the people we get to share His love with this year! You never know, maybe we’ll show up at your event.

What’s happenin’ MBM Fam!? photography in order by KEVIN WILSON and TYE VISUALS

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TIP JONES

NOVEMBER OCTOBER

EMERGE The Lux Retreat MB Mag was the Social Media Partner for this beautiful event. OwnHers, created by Tip Jones, a metamorphic leader, entrepreneur, culture worker, and creative engine who engages innovative solutions of centering minority and women-owned businesses (MWBEs) as a natural and integral part of organizations.

EMERGE is a luxury retreat providing busy women and women entrepreneurs with respite, renewal, and relaxation. Each luxury retreat is hosted either in the Caribbean or a stateside waterfront property.

Attendees have an interconnected experience of fun, adventure, relaxation, learning, and mindset renewal at EMERGE.

plus!

As a result of the engaging workshops, Tip Jones’ signature “Goal Circuit,” meditation, yoga practice, and massage therapy, attendees return home a better version of themselves.

THIS EXPERIENCE aspires to assist women in bringing parts of themselves forth that may have been shut off from their view.

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Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.

Jeremiah 1:5

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ERICA DIAS ERICA DIAS

NOVEMBER

Erica's Table of 20

Erica Dias created and has hosted this event since 2015. Erica is a Publicist and serial entrepreneur. She is the Founder of The B Firm PR LLC and the author of Faith It Until You Make It, a book full of inspirational quotes that are bound to give you the pick me up you need to inspire you on a daily basis.

ERICA’S TABLE OF 20 is an intimate dining experience for women and men to connect, engage, inspire, and impact. In November, Erica hosted her 41st Table of 20 experience alongside 20 special guests.

THE SELECTED HONOREES shared their experiences, successes, and failures during their journey in pursuit of their dreams.

plus!

Guests exposed their passions, triumphs, and challenges in an effort to motivate, educate, and inspire others to be dreamers that execute.

THANK YOU Erica for allowing us to be a part of this fabulous event! We look forward to another one!

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What Didn’tYou Say? The Omniscience of God and an Unpopular Face of Shame

by TARI COX, M.A. photography by KEVIN WILSON

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MANNA FOR THE MIND

Imagine this.

You’re scanning the holiday menu while standing in line at Starbucks. You notice your co-worker, who recently shared her financial burdens with you, paying at the register. “Your card was declined,” whispers the barista. Your co-worker’s face becomes flushed with embarrassment with every swipe attempt. You’re nudged by the Spirit of God to take care of her order. Yet, you politely wait for the perfect moment to interject and bless her. Finally, you step in.

And her relief is evidenced by a sigh and a “thank you.”

Though she was unaware of the outcome, you weren’t. The embarrassment and shame she displayed weren’t alarming to you. In fact, as you were aware of her circumstances, you expected her reaction and downcast emotions. Though she didn’t share that she was a few bucks short for coffee, you were mindful of what you knew about this season of her life. And in that moment, none of it hindered your decision to meet her needs, which also fulfilled her desire.

This is God’s heart for the little things that matter to us — attentive, compassionate, and prepared to fulfill our every longing. Yet, within some of us, a hint of apprehension restricts our sharing of the raw contents of the heart. Therein lies the unpopular face of shame. Generally, shame is recognized by reclusiveness, feelings of guilt and/or embarrassment, and preceded or accompanied by other unpleasant emotions (e.g., fear of judgment, sadness, anger). Psychologically, it’s defined as an unpleasant, self-conscious feeling that comes from the sense of being or doing a dishonorable, ridiculous, or immodest act.

However, shame isn’t always this objective.

And when approaching the throne of grace, shame in His presence may appear as a brave face: “This isn’t ‘that’ big of a deal.”

Or we may attempt to polish our syntax to “sound better” than our plain-old dialect with the Father. This face of shame arises when we feel we must clean up our thoughts for the One who already knows them. But, the omniscience of the Godhead has accounts for it all. It’s how Jesus knew the Samaritan woman’s marital status at the well (John 4:1-26). It’s how Jesus knew the evil thoughts of the scribes when He

healed the paralytic man (Matthew 9:1-8).

And it’s meant to be a source of comfort in knowing that all parts of us, individually, are welcomed in the presence of the King.

Omniscience is defined as the state of knowing everything. And for believers, one assault against intimacy with the Father is the subtle belief that in His omniscience, the contents of our hearts don’t actually matter to Him, the way they matter to us.

Here are several reminders when these moments arise in time of communion with Him: 1. God sent Jesus to disarm all shame.

Some may not understand or recognize shame for what it is; they may deem it reprehensible but not understand its roots or its impact. However, God understands it well. In fact, He sent His Son, Jesus, to disarm shame while also freely giving us the ability to be redeemed into relationship with Him. “... looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” — Hebrews 12:2 (ESV) “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” —John 14:6 (ESV) God has covered not only our shame and fear of judgment from other humans, but also shame we may be unaware of pertaining to full transparency with Him while in His presence.

2. God sees us as His children.

The average parent would never be blatantly apathetic towards their child distraught over a broken toy. While the parent’s values, the child’s life, and the world stand vastly different from their child’s perceptions yet to be fully developed, it’s the parent’s love that evokes concern for the child’s plight. Parental compassion isn’t based on the toy itself. Their love for their child is what inspires the desire to rectify the issue.

Further, the parent is aware of the child’s state of maturity and why the child’s mindset and immaturity matter. Therefore, we can only imagine the heart of the Father if this represents an average human response.

“If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” — Matthew 7:11 (ESV) “But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” —John 1:1213 (ESV) God is compassionate not only in the things we perceive to be valid, but also in the things we misperceive as irrelevant to Him. 3. God is fully aware.

It’s one thing to have a general awareness of a subject matter. It’s another to have a magnified lens of every atomic detail.

This is an attribute of God that not only concerns our present day, but was already in place before we existed.

“Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” —Psalm 139:16 (ESV) “You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.” — Psalm 139:2 ESV To God, there’s no invalid emotion, and he understands all the complexities and heartache of shame. He considers us His expertise. And yet while knowing everything about us, He wants to hear it from us. Before the foundations of the earth, we were both fully known and fully loved by Him. And the grounds of intimacy were all the more prepared by the One who knows what we have to bring to Him, before we even know we’re coming.

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Where Do I Start?

S

ix years ago if you asked me, “Where do I start?” I would have said, “in the gym.” Just go, use the equipment, try a machine.

That was me. I just showed up at the gym, not knowing God had a much bigger plan. He knew my gym workouts to release stress, tension, and all the other “weight” I carried would be the start of an entire movement. A movement centered around the idea, “If mentally you want it, physically it’ll show.”

But at the time, I just knew I needed to get in the gym, throw weight around, and somehow find the answer to my searching — my searching for the next “fix” (as none of the other ones were working).

You see, what I didn’t know back then was that simply taking the steps to walk across the campus of my job site to hit the gym would be an act of healing for me. I wasn’t concerned with my physical image changing; I was looking for something that gave me internal change. So, I got moving, every day at the same time with the same goal: to heal.

I was walking slowly through a divorce and knew my foundation was being torn apart, so I had to build a new one. And my attempts to do so began to work. They worked so well that I wanted more and more. Now, it was becoming a lifestyle.

I started dragging my coworker with me because I knew from our lunchtime chats that she was also looking for the same “fix.” Although she wasn’t going through the same heartache as I was, healing was necessary and the gym did the trick.

No, Qui, it was God. God was the “trick.” This truth lay before me. So, we pumped iron, releasing all hurt, pain,

trauma, and any other thing the enemy tried to imbed in our hearts while embracing this new thing … healing!

After seeing all I could accomplish through God’s power and direction, my goal became much bigger.

MOVE AND INSPIRE

One of my mottos is “all God, none of me.”

I mean that wholeheartedly. God literally ordered my steps to where I am today.

After God led me to health, working out carried me through my divorce, and I am now being led to guide others to physical and mental health. The greatest feeling is knowing you’ve worked for it. That inspired me, and I knew it would inspire others.

Get moving... with 3 physical moves you can do, too … nothing strenuous, just moves to perform to get you started: Planks – total body strength exercise Squats – if you want nice legs, start here Sit ups – as the center of your body, building a strong core is building a solid foundation A major part of my ability to move and pivot throughout myday is found in my commitment to starting my day on the best footing.

i u Q with

QUI 2 HEALTH

Qui Tip!

STARTING YOUR DAY

Remember, it’s in the process that you become a better you, and that includes the process of how you start your day. I personally carve out time in the morning to spend some uninterrupted quiet time with God. I pray, journal, affirm myself, and devote time to the Lord. I also take some time to release things I can’t control. This allows me to better focus my day on what I can control. All I can’t control I add to the list of things to give to God. I’ve also learned (sometimes the hard way) that rest proves just as essential as your morning routine.

REST

The word “rest” has so many layers that its mention actually makes me a bit uneasy.

I’m so thrilled that you, a valued MB Mag reader, are sitting here trying to navigate my thoughts, yet to me, an average hard-working entrepreneur, “rest” is like a forbidden word in my field. So, let’s just go to the best Source possible and get into what God says about rest!

Through the psalmist, God tells us to “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

He says, “Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken” (Psalm 62:1-2). He also says, “It is

HERE’S WHAT REST CAN LOOK LIKE FOR YOU: #1 Setting your alarm for 15-minute breath work. Sit still, close tabs. #2 Schedule a massage. Go alone, no conversations needed. Eliminate work, girl talk, and personal life matters. #3 Netflix and chill.

Something funny — nothing that’ll make you think about anything serious or too specific. #4 Hot showers — my favorite. Go to your local florist, buy a eucalyptus and lavender plant, hang it from your shower head, and BAM, you’re at the spa!

Bottom line: rest is required. You can’t show up for others if your cup is half full. As I always say, be gentle with yourself.

useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones” (Psalm 127:2). In other words, rest is a gift straight from God, and He encourages us to rest each day as we rest in Him. Once, when I was having a hard time listening to God’s direction for me to rest, I had an encounter with Him I’ll always remember, a time when God put me on my back — literally! In the middle of giving a class, I found myself ... Put. On. My. Back. Excruciating chest pains ripped through me. I remember praying, God, please let this pain go away; I’ll take it easy; I’ll rest. Well, that’s exactly what was needed — rest. I laid in the hospital for hours reprioritizing my schedule. Life was still happening all around me. I still had deadlines, classes, motherhood, etc. How was I supposed to rest when time does not stop?! Then I remembered I needed to be gentle with myself.

We must listen to our bodies. I make sure I prioritize to-do lists. Everything is not urgent.

Know what things are time-sensitive and what you can get to later. Delegate when you can.

Do whatever you have to do to REST. MB Mag readers, thanks so much for letting me throw some ideas your way today. Simply let God help you seize each one, and let His healing for you be your focus. Get moving, and be inspired!

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Year of the Soul as told by MARQUITA MOORE

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11:19 a.m. How I Grew Today: Let my spirit be memorable. Let Your light shine from my soul so bright that it is recognizable in the darkest of nights and even in the brightest of days.

This is the year for my soul and my spirit to take the lead so the light in me grows greater every day. I have a choice, and I am choosing. I am choosing to pay attention to what my soul needs to flourish and be free so I can live my life as an example of God’s love here on Earth.

This is not an easy choice to make, and I’m nowhere near perfect at it, but I am at it. The natural part of me wants to control everything and take over all the time. It wants me to live my life in effort instead of trusting and being. I stumble, but the stumbling is part of learning how to be an example, how to live as a being who wants to embody the guidance of Spirit — intentionally and full of consciousness (awareness), even when I stumble.

It's important I observe my soul from every angle so I can see when I am out of alignment — when I lose my balance, where I get tripped up, and what makes me fall. I have to see when I am not being loving, patient, or peaceful, to see where I may get thrown off the path of love and forget to be kind, calm, and gentle. I must see what stops or distracts me from being poised in my soul and faithful to His example. I also want to be aware of what I feel like when I am moving from a place of full love. This is just as important.

This is the year I let go and allow my soul to fully awaken. I am already what and who I wish to be. We all are, and we have so many gifts inside us, but we must allow Spirit to wake them up, by waking us up. I want to be awakened to all the things that serve me and others well. So, I embrace God's Word as well as the "teachers" who show up as experiences, tests, or people Divinely placed on my path to offer me opportunities to grow and nudge the places in me still slumbering.

I also know that my soul requires me to care for it. It deserves my full attention so it stays open and awake. When I spend quiet time connecting to Spirit, being still, conversing, listening, and feeling, I’m giving it the care it needs.

This quiet time is where I get strengthened and where deep change takes place. It's where I empty myself out and open up to receive. It’s where God and I talk about what’s on my heart that I need to share with just Him. It's in this time that I can see what has been affecting my soul, and how those things have been informing how I show up spiritually. We reflect on what lessons I have finally put to bed and overcome, and I give thanks for the wisdom I have gained. In the fullness of God's presence, I affirm who I am, whose I am, and what I believe. This very act declares who I trust.

Am I being patient, caring, and forgiving? Is my way of dealing with and speaking with others — and not just those I love personally — healing or hurting someone’s heart?

Are my wounds showing up and affecting the way I view others, and if so, how do I correct that? I will seek guidance about everything so I can represent the essence of Spirit, no matter what comes my way.

This time of connection encourages my soul to keep going, to keep choosing. It reinforces the foundation of love in me and makes room for more of the gifts, which have been sleeping, to awaken.

I want my soul to leave lasting imprints, good ones, on the hearts of all the other souls I meet. I want my soul to continue to reveal the deepest, purest expressions of me, the parts so closely aligned to God that our oneness is unmistakable.

Mirroring the essence of God requires me to engage with my soul in a way that is active, constant, and consistent. It requires me to dig beneath the surface of myself and be honest about my actions so I will always ask the questions that are sometimes hard, such as these: Am I being patient, caring, and forgiving? Is my way of dealing with and speaking with others — and not just those I love personally — healing or hurting someone’s heart? Are my wounds showing up and affecting the way I view others, and if so, how do I correct that? I will seek guidance about everything so I can represent the essence of Spirit, no matter what comes my way.

This is the “Year of my Soul.” Let my spirit be memorable. Let my light shine from my SOUL so bright that it is recognizable in the darkest of nights and even in the brightest of days.

That’s How I Grew Today. May it inspire you in some way.

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Shop, Prep, Dine KitchenCray, which stands for Creative Revolutionary Artistic Youth, was created to achieve James’ commitment to the community and create accessible culinary experiences. In addition to private dining experiences, events, and celebrity private chef services, KitchenCray leads classes and speaks to students through partnerships with area schools, nonprofits, shelters and youth centers.

JOLLOF RICE & SHRIMP 6 shrimp 2oz jumbo lump crab meat 1 tablespoon old bay 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro 2 roma tomatoes 2 red bell peppers 1 scotch bonnet pepper 1 medium-sized yellow onion ½ cup tomato paste 2 teaspoons chicken base 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme 2 dried bay leaves 4 cups veggie stock 2 teaspoons unsalted butter 2 cups long-grain rice rinsed

MEET THE POWERHOUSE DUO

Chef James Robinson and Sudon Williams are the NYC bred powerhouse duo behind one of Washington DC’s most popular multi-location restaurants.

KitchenCray brings modern takes on traditional cuisines, featuring unique shared plates and specially designed events. Chef James fell in love with creating experiences through food in his grandmother’s kitchen. Those experiences helped him to realize his ability to express himself creatively through cooking.

Sudon Williams is the Vice President of KitchenCray. In addition to being the Vice President, he also serves as the manager for KitchenCray. In this position, he handles all bookings, public relations requests, and is in charge of overseeing all KitchenCray events.

LET'S COOK Step 1: Clean and season shrimp with old bay Step 2: In a blender, combine tomatoes, red peppers, onions, and Scotch bonnets with ½ cup of stock, blend till smooth.

Step 3: Get your pot on medium heat, add oil and all the blended ingredients.

Step 4: Add tomato paste, chicken base, bay leaves, thyme and stock. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Add rice and butter, cover with a lid and lower the heat.

Step 5: Sauté shrimp and crab meat together, add fresh cilantro and butter.

Final Step: Plate it up and eat ~ Enjoy.

Jollof is a dish I would eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner because it’s so versatile. To give your breakfast a little twist, add a poached egg and some bacon and you're good to go.

- Chef James 60 MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

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CATEGORY ADVERTORIAL

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L

ive the Dream is exactly what you’ll do when visiting Dream Hollywood. Nestled in the heart of Hollywood.

This quaint boutique hotel offers breathtaking views, cozy guest rooms, and a stunning lobby that transforms from day to night seamlessly!

Dream Hollywood boasts 178 playfully sophisticated guest rooms with subtle nods to the mid-century modern aesthetic iconic to Los Angeles. (www.dreamhotels.com) Once you’ve become comfortably acquainted with the sophistication of your room, you don’t have far to venture for some of Hollywood’s most opulent restaurants.

THE HIGHLIGHT ROOM is the city's swankiest rooftop Pool, Lounge, and Grill. At 11,000-square-feet, this rooftop venue occupies the entire top floor of Dream Hollywood. The space is positioned ten stories high with unobstructed, 360-degree views of Los Angeles, ranging from the famed Hollywood Sign and surrounding Hollywood Hills to the skyline of Downtown.

TAO ASIAN BISTRO is a dynamic two-level space, complete with two private dining rooms, a lounge with a large bar, and a main dining room. A grand staircase connects TAO’s ground and lower level seating, creating the ultimate platform to see and be seen.

BEAUTY & ESSEX occupies 10,000 square feet of space that includes outdoor seating with a ground floor courtyard and a patio on the second level. The double-height main dining room

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offers natural light from a 20-foot oval skylight and a private dining room that allows for a more intimate dining experience.

The menu boasts of signature multi-ethnic dishes including: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Dumplings, Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos, and Oven Braised Chicken Meatballs.

SUNRISE CAFE in the lobby of Dream Hollywood, offers fresh breakfast selections and La Colombe coffee daily 8am11am right in the sunlit lobby bar.

Don’t forget about the 24hr access to a state-of-the-art gym designed by celebrity personal trainer and LA Lakers’ Director of Strength and Endurance, Gunner Peterson. To round out the amenities, no hotel is complete without conference and event space. Dream Hollywood has you covered with three versatile meeting spaces ranging from 595 - 1466 sq. ft. that can include a full suite of AV equipment. Not one stone has been left unturned to meet your business needs.

In addition to having luxury rooms, state of the art business amenities, and a variety of dining options, Dream Hollywood continues its commitment to forward-thinking design and creativity with the unveiling of the first of its kind physical NFT (non-fungible token) art exhibition in a hospitality space in partnership with The Crypt Gallery. Open to the public

now through 2022, guests can learn about the world of NFTs and digital art in Dream Hollywood’s double-height, light-filled lobby turned immersive gallery 24 hours a day, seven days a week. (Dream Hollywood, Press Release Aug. 2021) Last, what would any business be without its staff? Hands down, Dream Hollywood had the most attentive team we’ve experienced this year. From the time we arrived, we only carried bags if we chose. There wasn’t a question that didn’t get answered or a need that wasn’t met.

We want to extend a special “thank you” to Dream Hollywood’s GM, Vaughn Davis. Not only did I watch him interact with available team members upon his arrival for a quick morning greeting, I also noticed how he was received by his team.

That reception told its own story. To quote the best line from Remember the Titans, “…attitude reflects leadership captain” Kudos to you Mr. Davis!

Special thanks to our Dream Team: Phillip, Tim, Neil, Jeremy, Matthew, Dale, Mars and we can’t forget about our delivery robot friend, Alfred! You made this trip so memorable. You made us feel like family and we appreciate you all!

For booking information: www.dreamhollywood.com

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g n i n r o The M r Afte

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EDITOR'S PICKS

The MB Magazine team has been blessed to stay in gorgeous locations for all their cover shoots. Now, it's a tradition to give a review of the properties, the staff, and a full recap of their experience!

Maybe your property will be next to Blow their Minds!

Welcome to "The Morning After"

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I heard so many amazing things about Dream Hollywood from The MB Mag team before I even stepped foot into this beautiful hotel. I joined the team a couple of days later and I was more than impressed by how they went above and beyond to make special accommodations for each and every one of us. The entire team hit the ground running from the time of check-in and “The Dream Staff,” as I liked to call them, was right there with us, gracefully granting all of our lastminute requests. Yes, this was a business trip,; however, we were still able to find the time to relax and appreciate the lovely amenities while we worked. Whenever I return to the LA area, IN-SUITE BATHROOM I can’t imagine staying anywhere else!

-Stacy

TRAVEL The Dream Hollywood hotel was an awesome space for both personal use and business. The Guest House Suite was immaculate! The versatile interior design allowed my team and I to work efficiently to style Mrs. Simone I. Smith, all while still having ample space to conduct our photoshoot effortlessly. My King suite was cozy and also served as a perfect fitting space for our cover guest as well. I would recommend this beautiful hotel any time.

-Joyce

As a photographer, I thought Dream Hollywood was perfect for me to shoot. There were so many different areas to capture and nothing looked the same. The decor was absolutely amazing! Every shot gave something different from one side of the space to the next. The hallways, the bathrooms, the guest rooms, the way light entered each space, the rooftop … everything was on point. Photographers - this hotel is an experience!

-Robin V.

"How often do you get to exchange your office desk and chair for beautiful outdoor marble bar views, or plush couches in an open-air hotel lobby!”

DINING AREA

Although my stay at Dream Hollywood for this shoot was truly amazing, it was definitely the rooftop that gave me the sunny California vibes. When I wasn’t working, I was being kissed by the sun at the pool or indulging at The Highlight Room even while being on a strict cleanse. I was pleasantly surprised by the chef's ability to create an excellent dish with the three things I was able to eat during that time. Not to mention, my happy ending of sitting in the direct sunlight picking from the most exotic tray of fruit. It’s the little things for me!

-April

Though my time at Dream Hollywood was all work, the environment in which I got to do the majority of my work felt like playtime. Yes, the food was great and the bed was comfy… but how often do you get to exchange your office desk and chair for beautiful outdoor marble bar views, or plush couches in an open-air hotel lobby! The versatility of my office for the week was unmatched. During the day, I was able to plug in, literally, wherever I chose to work. When the work extended into the evening hours, the atmosphere’s lighting and music shift still allowed for my creativity to flow and it was the perfect backdrop for our meetings!

-Denise

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But First, Skincare... with Leanne Dlamini

Creams, serums, gels, lotions, and potions.

I know that just the mention of it all can be completely overwhelming.

But, sis, I’m here to tell you that looking after your skin doesn’t have to be that complicated or expensive.

Every woman deserves a skincare routine that suits her needs. One she can navigate with confidence and ease. I once read a quote that said “One must have, first of all, a solid foundation.” – unknown Skincare is the foundation of beauty.

Now let’s start with the 3 basic steps.

Step 1 - Cleanse: Washing your face every morning and evening with face wash is essential. It ensures your skin is free from dirt before you apply your moisturizer.

Step 2 – Hydrate: Moisturizer is the hydration your skin needs and it is most effective when applied to damp skin. The function of moisturizer is to keep your skin smooth, young, supple, and fight wrinkles.

Step 3 – Protect: SPF is your BFF! I cannot stress this enough, wear sunscreen daily. It protects your skin from premature aging. Shields your skin from UVA & UVB rays that damage skin. Lastly, sunscreen ensures the skin barrier function isn’t harmed by UV exposure.

Now that I’ve shared my 3 basic steps with you all, I think you’re ready to start your own routine.

Remember to start simple and work out which products work best for you.

“Be good to your skin. You’ll wear it everyday for the rest of your life.” – Renée Rouleau

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S O M E O F M Y G O -TO PRODUCTS TO GET YOU S TA R T E D

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If you follow me on social media, you may know that I’m all about glam when it comes to home decor. Many call me the “Queen of Glam.” Yes, give me all the glitz and glam possible with a touch of class and sophistication. I love everything OVER THE TOP, especially for the holidays! I’m sure you saw my Christmas trees and know what I mean!

Refresh Your Home for the New Year

with Tamara Bradshaw

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However, when the year ends and I take down all of my trees and Christmas decorations, I like to bring in the New Year with a clean and refreshed simplicity to my home. I use January as a month to get my home clean and step away from the glam for a moment. What does this mean? It means besides giving my home a good deep clean, I also refresh my home with subtle touches. This helps me mentally and physically prepare for a new year. It’s definitely good for the soul! I believe your home should be in order so that you can go out there and conquer the world.

My home has an open floor plan, so most of our time is spent in the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Little changes day by day will make your home feel like a new environment. You will always have your main base, which is your furniture. The furniture stays (unless you feel it’s time to make some new furniture purchases). Personally, I don’t suggest that. Simple and small changes will give your home a completely new look.

For example, in my living room I always switch out the throw pillows on my sofa to bring in a new feel for the new year. I also remove any clutter from my coffee table to ensure it’s not overdone. Adding a new floral arrangement is also perfect and will make your space feel new. Why not even include a beautiful decorative book for finishing touches? Finally, I encourage changing up the area rugs, which is always a big focus in any room!

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IN THE KITCHEN

I try to clear off as much as I can on the counters, leaving out the bare necessities. Add a beautiful apothecary jar on your countertop; something so subtle still makes a statement. I also love adding a decorative tray with some flowers on my kitchen island. It adds a pop to your kitchen, without overdoing it.

IN YOUR BEDROOM

New sheets and a comforter set will bring it to life. Change out the throw pillows on your bed. Add a framed photo and a candle to your nightstands for a finished touch. Change up your curtains, or clean the ones you have and rehang. You can do the same in your children’s bedrooms. They are kids, but I know even as a kid I loved a good refresh.

SHOP FROM YOUR HOME

"

I like to clear my dining room table of all settings and just add a beautiful floral centerpiece or a candle. I love that clean, sleek look, so sometimes I leave it bare. You always want your space open and clutter-free. Many of us bring in the New Year with resolutions. I know I do, and every year it’s to get rid of things I no longer need. Out with the clutter; in with a clean, sleek look.

This begins in our homes.

I believe in shopping from your home. Yes, use stuff you already have.

I do it all the time. Pull out items you forgot you had. Bring those items back to life before you run out and shop! Yes, get started on those DIYs. Plenty of times I would head to the store and purchase things, without realizing I already had something similar at home I could have used. Spray paint a vase to a new color to fit your color scheme; use an old mirror to make a decorative tray; use old artwork and change it up to your liking. Don’t be afraid to be creative!

WHAT MATTERS IS HOW YOU FEEL

No matter the size of your home, how small or big. No matter if you live in a small apartment or huge condo. None of that matters. What matters is how you feel there. A home that creates a feeling of peace, a home where memories begin — that’s what I want for everyone when bringing in the New Year. I wish you all love, open hearts, and blessed comfort in your homes during 2022 and beyond.

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Style & with Grace Ty Harper CATEGORY

.REUSED .REMIXED .REIMAGINED

WHEN THRIFTING I only purchase clothes I feel comfortable in. Being comfortable in your clothes sets the tone for your entire day. It's a great day when you don't have to spend most of it adjusting your clothes.

Being comfortable in your outfit equals confidence and when you're confident it allows you to show up anywhere feeling sexy, bold and powerful.

Must Haves When Thrifting: Have no expectations, have patience, have an imagination, have fun!

e h t ! ol ok

TIP: You don't have to break the bank to be fashionable.

Expensive is an energy, you determine what you want to look and feel like in your clothes. You wear the clothes.

The clothes should never wear You!

ACCESSORIES ARE THE FINALE TO YOUR OUTFIT

HAT $7.99

NECKLACE $5.99

HANDBAG $4.98

NUDES

Hats are my go-to whenever I want to make a statement.

Adding a hat to your outfit will elevate your look in seconds.

Add a bold necklace to make a statement to any basic outfit.

Don’t be afraid to use prints. This gives you a chance to add your personality to your outfit.

You can still be bold wearing the color nude. By using different shades of nudes this will add interest to your outfit without you looking boring while rocking the color nude.

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Broken Crayons Still Color A DEVOTION BY TONI J COLLIER So, there I was in the middle of my living room floor, scraping up broken crayons that my three-year-old strong-willedblessing had completely ruined. My daughter, Dylan, had robbed these crayons of their dignity. All their little clothes were off, they were naked and broken and all over the place.

Just an hour earlier, I thought she’d be the next Picasso, a real artist. I’d even ordered a faux fur and beret hat from Amazon Prime and all. Lots of regrets here ... lol!

As I scraped up these crayons, I started to weep. And while I am naturally a dramatic person, these tears came from an authentic place. It wasn’t the crayons at all; it was what they represented … brokenness. They reminded me of my life at the time. Newly divorced from a toxic marriage and headed into single motherhood, I’d just transitioned out of a church that was spiritually abusive and manipulative, so I had also lost the community that left with it, and I was straight up broke. I was unsure where I’d live, how I’d provide, and what was next for me. It was a dark season for my emotional, mental, and even spiritual health.

And if you’re there right now, I see you. If you’re feeling broken, like nothing is going right ... If you’re feeling unworthy, lost, tired, and crushed, you are not alone in that. I want to offer you two things that helped me claw my way out of a valley of deep brokenness.

First, 2 Corinthians 12:9. The Apostle Paul writes about brokenness, and he says that when he gets worried about his brokenness, God says to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, and My power is made perfect in weakness.” Then Paul’s response is this: “Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness so that Christ's power will rest on me.”

Listen, if you’re looking for the power of God, I want you to ask yourself, “Have I been brave enough to be broken?” Have you chosen to pursue false perfection or holy surrender?

Because God is truly waiting for you on the other side of your surrender, of your authenticity, of your complete trust in Him. And second, when I asked my daughter, Dylan, why she broke the crayons, she looked at me with all her sass and said, “Mommy, color!” and she kept on coloring. I think Dylan was trying to tell me — and even you as you read this right now — that Broken Crayons Still Color. God still has a plan for you; in fact, He does His best work in the broken places. He’s a master Redeemer and a Restorer of broken things. Let’s pray.

Lord, I pray for the person reading this right now.

I pray that in whatever valley they find themselves, they would know that you’re not far. You are not the God that’s at the end of the broken times, waiting for us to get it right. You are the God that helps us claw our way out of the valleys to mountains of hope. I pray that the person reading this would never forget that about you. Be near Father. In Jesus’ name, Amen, it is so.

Reflect & Respond It takes the average person to hear something three times for it to really stick into their memory. Which means that reading this devotion once and walking away isn’t enough. I want to challenge you to read it twice more and dive into the questions and reflection below.

You’ve got this!

Q: Q:

R:

Can you think about a part of your life that makes you feel absolutely broken? Something that you’ve been holding onto that causes you to feel crushed emotionally, mentally, and possibly spiritually. I dare you to name it and write it down. Then go a step further and share it with a trusted friend.

Is there a go-to Scripture in your life that you have memorized when times get tough? I dare you to find something like 2 Corinthians 12:9 or Psalm 34:18 or James 4:7 to cling to when times get tough.

Something you can memorize and speak over your life, over and over again.

Write an honest letter to God about where you are right now. Oftentimes, we choose to carry burdens on our own because we think God is either ashamed of us or not willing to trade His power for our weakness. So how about you give it a try?

Write an honest letter to God this week. Share your greatest griefs and invite Him in to carry them for you.

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Prayer of salvation Father, I admit that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe He died for my sins and that You raised Him to life. I turn from my former life and believe that inviting Jesus Christ into my heart and my life that I am now born again. I want to trust Him as Lord, from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do Your will. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

If you prayed this prayer for the first time, scan the code for a special message from our family.

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But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

Luke 8:15

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