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CE LE BRATI N G O UR ONE YE A R A NNI V ER SA RY
Tammy
Brély Evans
Her Name, Her Gifts, Her Confidence
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DEVOTIONAL BY PASTOR TRAVIS & DR. JACKIE GREENE
Franklin SURRENDERING TO THE SEASON
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Ways to Reimagine Home for the Holidays with Diann Valentine
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IN EVERY ISSUE 09 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 08 THE LORD'S PRAYER 17 CONTRIBUTORS 17 MASTHEAD 128 PRAYER OF SALVATION
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OCTOBER 2021 H O L I D AY I S S U E VOL. 2 NO.1
FEATURES 18 GOD’S FAVOR Our quarterly picks of
our favorites within Arts & Entertainment
22 FEARFULLY & WONDERFULLY MADE Two women unapologetically are
moving their industries forward and giving Him all the glory while doing so. 48 THE GIRLFRIEND'S CORNER MB's favorite girlfriend tackles the opinions and the chatter that we all face from time to time when the atmosphere of life changes. 34 MIRACLES STILL HAPPEN Miracles absolutely still exist, and Brandon Stephenson is a living testimony to God’s saving grace.
40 LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS: THE YEAR OF FIRSTS We sat down with two
newlywed couples to discuss their relationships and their plans for the holiday season. 10 MIND BLOWING TRIBUTE Editor in Chief – Stacy Sorrell Moore (An Act of Obedience)
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Roshawn Nicole Wounded Scars Roshawn Nicole had a near-death experience in 2012 that had her in the intensive care unit for 30 days. Her inability to cope with the pain of her trauma left her struggling with flashbacks, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and addiction. At the end of 2020, Nicole realized she was living in a vicious cycle and she desperately needed to seek professional help. She decided to go to treatment for two months, where she was inspired to write the song, “Wounded Scars”. It was the lyrics in this song that helped her find inner strength and encouraged her to become an advocate helping to break the stigma of mental illness. “Wounded Scars” perfectly captured the realness of her struggles, telling the story of healing and hope found in Jesus. “Wounded Scars” was released on May 1st in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month and is available on all digital platforms.
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Marji Laine A Giant Murder When Celebrate Lit Publishing invited me to take part in their Christian fiction Ever After Mystery series, I thought it would be a lark, retelling a fairy tale as a historical mystery. I had no idea it would make such an impact on my life. A Giant Murder is based on “Jack and the Beanstalk.” I chose that story because adding romance to it seemed absurd. I was up for that challenge, but as I began to prepare, things changed. My story takes place in my hometown, Dallas, Texas. As I researched 1926 Dallas, finding buildings and neighborhoods that are still in use today, I could envision my characters on the grounds. They became so real to me, along with their contemporaries—my own grandparents, as teenagers, walking the downtown streets. I could see my family members in this book’s pages. A journey I never expected when I first considered this “lark.”
Cheriesse Style and Stewardship The Style and Stewardship podcast exists to encourage women who want to grow in their faith. James 1:17 says every good gift we have is from God. We know the redemption we have because of Jesus’ sacrifice for our salvation is the best gift. I encourage my listeners each week to remember, “Your life matters, what you do with it matters.” Stewardship is an act of faithfully, and responsibly managing all aspects of our lives for God. Our gifts, talents, time, abilities, finances, health, and lifestyles as a whole are taken into account. These are only some of the various ways that we can honor and glorify God. It’s lifestyle stewardship through a faith-filled lens. My prayer and purpose for this podcast is to inspire other women to be faithful and responsible stewards in all areas of life. So that we will all one day hear, “well done good and faithful servant.”
Damara Melissa Brave I’ve always struggled with insecurities and the fear of man. The racial upheaval in 2020 caused a lot of differing opinions to come to light in my community. To say that I was wrecked by opposing opinions is an understatement. It was in this wreckage, however, I realized that people were an idol. I derived my value and sense of security from their acceptance. Once I laid the idol down, it was like scales fell from my eyes. God had been speaking the parable of the talents from Matthew 25 to my heart for some time. Suddenly, everyone else’s thoughts and ideas about my life were irrelevant. I knew I had a command to follow, and a purpose to fulfill. I was no longer afraid. I wrote BRAVE in response to this supernatural work that God did in my life in 2020. I hope it inspires others to live fearlessly for Jesus.
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B is for Brély
Take a moment and pull up the image of the person who selflessly champions your squad. Who shows genuine concern for your life? The one who surrounds you like a shield with the Word of God. The person who speaks that thing into existence, and can see a “no” as a “not yet, something immeasurably more.” Ok, do you see that person in your mind’s eye now? If you do, cool. If you don't, that's cool too because without further ado, allow your new bestie, MISS BRÉLY EVANS, to introduce herself to you! This dynamic jill of all trades sat with MB Mag and gifted us with the following conversation that will make the ambition inside of you spring forth with a renewed fervor. by DEIDRE DICKEY photography by JEREMIAH'S PHOTOGRAPHY
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The
Yearof Firsts MB Mag readers, we would like to introduce you to the newlyweds, LAVELL AND KRISTLE PERSON and ANN AND WILLIE MOONEY. We sat down with both of these couples to talk about relationships. What better way to celebrate our anniversary issue than by hearing from these lovely couples in their first year of marriage. Not only that, but they also shared with us how they plan to spend their first holiday season as husband and wife. We hope you enjoy hearing from them as much as we did!
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THE GIRLFRIEND'S CORNER
Oh!
She's Changed. by APRIL DANIELS photography by ROBIN V PHOTOGRAPHY
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We live in a world where we get to witness the fallouts of so
many people on social media, whether they’re a celebrity or not. The idea of publicly airing out disagreements has never been my thing although the trend seems to be growing. Unfortunately, when people choose to make it everyone else’s business, instead of just between the two parties involved, it creates an open window of opinions. These opinions become the heartbeat to chatter like, “Oh, she’s changed!” Meaning, a person is acting or responding in ways not to the liking of someone else. This narrative creates conversations that cloud the atmosphere with entitlement instead of truth. For me, the past two years have placed me in a position where I experienced this firsthand . . . I was the one accused of “changing.” Unapologetically, the nature of my life’s events required me to change drastically. After all, when anyone has to experience change on any level, it also automatically requires them to change in some capacity. Maybe it’s how you choose to continue on, adjust, or respond to that circumstance, but my hope would be, whatever the change, that it challenges you to grow in some way. Growth can make a lot of people uncomfortable, especially when that growth causes them to disconnect from a person they benefited from greatly. Even if there was a mutual benefiting factor, I’d love to think that both people devoted time to pray about and consider the relationship from an unbiased perspective. The heart of the person who has changed, taking into account what they have experienced, has to remain in the forefront; giving this person grace has to be key. And any negative thoughts and assumptions one may come up with to accuse this person have to be put aside. Otherwise, why would they have been friends to begin with? Just from a practical standpoint, it might also be easier to support what you may not understand instead of wasting time and energy sharing a tainted version of a story that attaches a false narrative to what really happened. Wishful thinking, huh? Also, some real grownup behavior! Looking back at the few connections that fizzled out, my concern was never, “How will I manage to fit into their next chapter?” When it ended, I may have questioned some things, but definitely didn’t go on a hate campaign against them. Lord knows I could have with quite a few people, but that was never an option for me. My prayer was that their next chapter
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would benefit them, giving them what they need to become a better version of themselves. Because healthy people and situations breed healthy people and situations. We shouldn’t feel so privileged that we permanently write ourselves into the lives of those we are blessed to connect with. Some things are seasonal, and unfortunately, we do not get to control that. After all, it would be amazing if we could pause time on some relationships or friendships that felt the most fulfilling. But when an expiration date arrives, taking everything into consideration shouldn’t leave you in a bitter place. Life will bring you curveballs that some will not understand, but when it involves other people, when did entitlement replace grace? Everything isn’t always about your feelings when someone is literally trying to pick up the pieces to carry on. Once you’ve lived a little, you understand the benefits of growing and keeping your mouth off of someone else’s growth. Learn to become less opinionated and more comfortable with change that isn’t physically hurting anyone or, more importantly, what may line up with God’s will. What happened to trusting God with the outcome regardless how bruised your ego becomes? The Bible speaks about holding grudges or negative feelings against someone. Yet, we will sometimes skip those instructions and go straight to other people and gossip, share on social media, and possibly spearhead a campaign of negativity against someone while wearing the victim hat. This action doesn’t make you more right; instead it reflects your lack of maturity to see things through a lens of love. We can’t control people or situations, but we can control how we respond and the willingness to grow from what has changed us. When you look in the mirror, love who you are becoming and be able to close your eyes at night with the same peace. My relationship with God keeps my spirit accountable, not perfect. When I’m operating outside of that, God has a way of allowing me to see where I need to do better. That is the gauge I use to check my heart, not a bunch of misguided opinions. Don’t let others' opinions speak louder than the way God has chosen to guide your steps. The next time you hear, “Oh, she’s changed!” let that be a reminder that God is doing a new thing in you. Be proud of the woman you are becoming. And remember, walking in your purpose doesn’t need the approval of others. As long as God is pleased, He truly is the only One who matters. M
We can’t control people or situations, but we can control how we respond and the willingness to grow from what has changed us.
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EXCEPTIONAL SKIN CARE *Made of 100% nylon *Buffs away dead skin cells *Exfoliates and cleanses the body *Extends to reach the back *Won't breed bacteria
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tammy A SPECIAL CONVERSATION WITH
franklin as told by TONI E. EMEHEL photography by ROBIN V PHOTOGRAPHY styling by J. BOLIN
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COVER STORY
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FOOD & TRAVEL
Say What! It's Vegan?
Adjoa Courtney, known professionally as “Chef Joya,” has a passion for turning basic recipes into exquisite delicacies — a talent that has changed her life. photography by JONATHAN COOPER
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FOOD & TRAVEL
Los Cabos, Mexico
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ocated at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos gives you the all-inclusive luxurious Pueblo Bonito resort spread out over five distinctive properties. My favorite of the five is Pueblo Bonito Pacifica, an adults-only place where you can indulge in comfort. A minimalist haven, Pueblo Bonito Pacifica is a 201 guest room property featuring soft neutral hues, native wood furnishings, and gorgeous views of the private beach. The property has enhanced amenities on one side of the property, which includes 24-hour butler service and exclusive access to an oceanfront VIP lounge. If you love extra perks like these, be sure to book a room at “The Towers” at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica. The Pacifica resort offers eight places to wine and dine. If you arrive before your room is available, you’ll most likely be directed to Siempre, an indoor and outdoor delicious Mediterranean-style restaurant that offers a lunch and dinner menu as well as a breakfast buffet. If you love seafood try Pescados, a casually elegant sushi restaurant. Be sure to make a reservation for the property’s white linen fine dining Peninsula Restaurant, which offers hand-selected recipes and fresh flavors from across the region. There are truly so many great places to eat, it will be nearly impossible to visit all the bars and restaurants, but if you venture off of Pacifica, I’d recommend trying LaFrida Restaurant. Named after the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, LaFrida restaurant means enjoying a unique approach to Mexican cuisine while taking in the Fridainspired decor, art, and panoramic ocean views. If you are traveling with a large group, you are guaranteed to have a variety of dietary preferences, so I’d recommend visiting the Market at Quivira inspired by the European elegance of the food hall experience. You’ll find everything from Asian to Italian favorites and even an American ‘50s- inspired diner.
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As much as I love a relaxing trip and food galore, I also enjoy an excursion or two to explore the various activities the area has to offer. Cabo Adventures offers everything from camel safari rides to ATV experiences, zip lining, snorkeling, and a dolphin swim experience. On my first trip to Cabo, I opted for the Luxury Sailing Cabo Tour and cruised past the famous Land’s End Arch at Lover’s Beach. The tour includes a light snack, lunch, premium open bar, and even a bit of dancing aboard your luxurious Frenchmade catamaran.
If you’re not up for activities and prefer a low-key relaxation experience, be sure to stop at the Armonia Spa at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica. Indulge in body treatments, massage therapies, salon services, and other spa packages. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my favorite take-home gift, the Armonia Spa Air Fresheners available at the spa boutique. My favorite fragrances are lavender and lavender vanilla. RIGHT, FROM TOP: Lobby at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort, Marina Cabo San Lucas
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WELLNESS ELEV8TED
Health & the Holidays How stress leads to elevated cortisol levels and what that means for your health. by DR. LAKESHA LEGREE 104 MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE
HEALTH & HEALING
Q: Looming holidays got you at your wits’ end? Are family members ruffling your feathers? Is your “To Do” list longer than Santa’s? Do your kids have you climbing up the wall? Before you know it, your stress becomes chronic, those holiday treats and cookies become breakfast and lunch, and then . . . Bam! . . . your cortisol levels are through the roof. What is happening to your mind and your body? They are both losing it! Then your body decides to surge itself in cortisol and, whew! What is cortisol anyway? Sis’, keep reading, and I’ll spill the tea for you below. Why do we allow ourselves to become so stressed during the holiday season? Perhaps we are too busy setting unrealistic expectations to accomplish insignificant tasks in order to please people who are not contributors to our inner peace or overall happiness? Oooooohhhhh, this tea is piping hot! Grab your mug and “leggo.” What does the holiday season really mean to you? Is it give and receive, or is it gathering in a spirit of faith and gratitude? Please do not let it be both because, quite possibly, we are starting the holiday season with unrealistic expectations, which may as well be a list written in pencil that you then poured water on. Self-sabotage is exactly what is happening. Did you know that while we are so busy trying to check off the boxes, we are indirectly doing damage to ourselves internally? Stress wreaks havoc on our lives, both inside and out. A recent national survey revealed that stress decreases our productivity and negatively impacts our families, as evidenced by an almost 50 percent divorce rate in our country. It also leads to burnout. Approximately 25 percent of employees across the country are experiencing burnout related to the additional stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This was before the holiday season. Can you imagine adding holiday stressors on top of an already unprecedented time? We have yet to even touch upon the internal damage directly caused by stress alone.
Let’s discuss. When stress becomes chronic, a hormone, cortisol, becomes elevated and circulates throughout our bodies. When this hormone circulates for long periods of time, it can directly lead to impairments in your memory, depression of your immune system, a sensitization of your body to insulin, and an increase in your perception of fear. So basically, you don’t know what is going on, you are vulnerable, you are gaining weight, and you are scared and anxious all at the same time. Normally, cortisol rises and falls in our bodies in response to temporary stressors. It is normally responsible for
"A recent national survey revealed that stress decreases our productivity and negatively impacts our families, as evidenced by an almost 50% divorce rate in our country.” our circadian rhythm, our sleep regulation, blood sugar control, growth and repair on a cellular level, and finally, amino acid production, which are key protein building blocks throughout our bodies. When cortisol is elevated for prolonged periods of time, it increases your risk for breast and prostate cancer, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer’s disease, gut issues such as chronic constipation, migraine headaches, infections, pain disorders, inflammatory disorders, and finally, heart disease. Let’s take an in-depth look at the impact of cortisol on one of our most critical organs, the heart. Cortisol can narrow your arteries and increase the plaque build-
up within them. Cortisol can elevate the precursors of plaque, which are cholesterol and triglycerides. Collectively, this leads to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. All three of these can possibly result in death! Do I have your attention now? Are you curious now about your own stress levels and if your cortisol is chronically elevated? You can start your stress reduction journey by asking your doctor to get a urine sample from you to assess the amount of cortisol in your urine over a 24-hour period. That will be an indication of how much cortisol is circulating throughout your body and hopefully an indirect indication of how you need to slow down, sit down, and quiet the stressors in your life. Afterall, when we know better, we tend to do better. Now, how do you reduce the stress in your life? To be honest, I am still figuring that one out for myself. It is a conscious effort that one must make every single day. You must prioritize yourself and your mental health first. Your mental health is in direct alignment with your physical health. I cannot emphasize this direct correlation enough! Let us all remember that the purpose of stress is to alert us through our bodies to changes in our environment. These changes require us to make adjustments in our actions, responses, and behaviors. So, from nutrition to exercise to mindfulness to financial adjustments, there are things you can do to manage any stressors in your life. So as the holiday season approaches, let us remember the real Reason for the season and act accordingly so we come out of the holiday season refreshed and renewed, with hearts of faith, gratitude, and low circulating cortisol levels! M
For more wellness inspiration and medical advice, subscribe to Dr. Legree's newsletter at www.drlegree.com and follow her on all social media platforms @ DrLegree. F
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Holiday Design & Entertaining with Diann Valentine
10 Design Tips to Help You Reimagine Home for the Holidays! MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE
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DEVOTIONAL
The Future Is Now
A DEVOTION BY PASTOR TRAVIS AND DR. JACKIE GREENE Have you ever had a word from God that’s greater than what you currently see? Sometimes, God shows us a glimpse of our future, but after that, we’re left to face the current reality of what life looks like today. The way to overcome the hurdle of constant disappointment in your current season is stewardship. Now is not waiting on next, next is waiting on now. The proof of our faith is not in our ability to rule, it is in our ability to serve while waiting on God’s promises to come to pass. How many of us try to wait on the promise of God to manifest before we begin to walk towards it? The faith for your future is proved in the consistency of your today! How do you show God that you’re ready for the next season? It’s by properly stewarding the current one. Let’s say, God is calling you to a new career. Have you researched it? Have you talked to people currently in that field? God won’t give you something you aren’t ready for. He doesn’t waste the harvest and He doesn’t waste time. If you’re waiting on God, consider the possibility that God may be waiting on you. Many times, we hate the season of waiting and/or the topic of stewardship because we aren’t fond of the testing that comes with it. What we don’t realize is, God’s testing comes only to perfect and push us to become the person He designed us to be. Every test is a new opportunity to take God at His word concerning who He says you are. Don’t become so focused on what’s happening TO you, that you miss what it’s doing FOR you. The difference between a blessing and a burden is preparation. Use the current season you’re in to prepare for what God has shown you. Every test of this present season will be used to reveal ways to steward what you have more effectively. The future is NOW. Trust God with your today and when you’re ready, watch Him blow your mind with your tomorrow. F Prayer: Father, my future belongs to you. Give me the strength to trust you with my tomorrow as I properly manage what you’ve already placed in my hands. Let my stewardship prove my faith for what you’ve promised me. In Jesus’ name, Amen. F Visit Pastor Travis & Dr. Jackie Greene at Forward City Church, Columbia, SC and visit forwardcity.tv for updates.
Now is not waiting on the next, next is waiting on the now. The proof of our faith is not in our ability to rule, it is in our ability to serve while waiting on God's promises to come to pass. Reflect & Respond
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What are the things God has promised for your future? Prayerfully write them down.
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For each promise, what can you do now to prepare yourself for what He said? Make a list.
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Take the next 30 days and commit to preparation. Read that book, start that savings account, change those habits. Do what’s necessary to show God that He can trust you with more. MIND BLOWING MAGAZINE
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