Inspirational Moments pg. 6 Do Good, Do Good!
Business & Entrepreneurship pg. 14 When Business Becomes Personal
Contents
Health & Wellness pg. 18 Dog-Ergy Self-Mastery is the Ultimate Goal
Education Is Key pg. 22 Preserving Wilberforce University (HBCU) Legacy
Community Outreach pg. 44 From Pew to Purpose
Authors Speak pg. 26 The Voice of Poetry
All Things Fashion pg. 48 Do you like the things life is showing you?
Arts & Media pg. 52 Being A Positive Contributor To Community
Cover Story pg. 30 "Community is EVERYWHERE!!" Community Heroes pg. 10 Community News Flash pg. 46 Birthday Shoutouts pg. 56
Contributing Writers September/October 2023 Issue Marjorie Middleton Karen McConnell-Jones Kyonna F. Brown Michelle DeMarcia Davis Antonio “Tony T” Turner Martina Turner Cortland Jones Candice Camille
Editor-In-Chief Karen McConnell-Jones Deputy Editor Michelle DeMarcia Davis Director of Graphics & Design Michelle DeMarcia Davis Director of Sales Karen McConnell-Jones Photographer Wesley Oliver Photos Provided by Featured Guests Layout & Design Michelle DeMarcia Davis Front Cover Layout & Design Karen Clay
If you are interested in writing for Vision and Purpose Community Magazine, send a writing sample and which column you are interested in to info@vandpmediaproductions.com 4 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
The V&P Team is here to be a positive voice for our community through the stories that we share in our magazine. In addition, we provide services for our community to continue to help build our community . . . One Vision and One Purpose at a time. For service and pricing please contact us at info@vandpmediaproductions.com
Karen McConnell-Jones Karen Clay Dominique Massaquoi Michael Atcherson Kyonna Fields Brown Marjorie Middleton Antonio Turner Martina Turner Zannie McNeil III Michelle DeMarcia Davis
Inspirational Speaker & Business Development Consultant (Marketing & Branding Specialist) Website Designer Photographer Photographer Inspirational Speaker & Social Media Specialist Writer Hair Stylist & Hair Care Products Hair Stylist & Hair Care Products IT Specialist Virtual Assistant/Graphic Design
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Inspirational Moments
Do Good, Do Good! By Marjorie M. Middleton
There are many sayings, mottos, and mantras I choose the words to live my life by. We all have ways of doing things. Those things may become a part of your morals and principles, and sometimes they may just be a passing experience. Either way, there are always ways to explain intentions, words that apply. I intend to do good. If it is within my power to do good for someone, my intention is to do it. The motto here is in scripture form. The Amplified version says, “See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek that which is good for one another and for all people.” I Thessalonians 5:15. What a powerful way to strive to live one’s life. Actions and words work hand in hand; they can be positive and give life or the opposite and cause destruction and death. “Don’t be hateful to people just because they are hateful to you. Rather, be good to each other and everyone else,” same scripture in the CEV version.
In the fifth chapter of Thessalonians, the Bible tells the story of Paul reminding the Thessalonian people that the day of the Lord will come like “a thief in the night” (vs. 5:2), and because we don’t know when Jesus is coming we should always be sober, diligent and live a life of faith, love and service. We should be patient and attentive to one another’s needs. Let’s look for the best in one another and if we see nothing try to bring it out. Let’s create peaceful and prayerful moments. Thank God, no matter what.
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Every day we can read about or watch news on the destruction of our world. Each country experiences wars or rumors of wars, families are near starvation in every city in our country, children are abused and/or molested at an alarming rate, but good still exists as the light in the darkness. In Montgomery County Maryland the County Food Council’s Food Security Task Force is aiming to make sure every citizen has access to fresh foods whether they can afford the goods or not. Local farmers have provided online ordering and curbside pickup, especially for disadvantaged communities. The weather is unpredictable. Recently in Vermont, there was flooding and extensive damage incurred after two months of rainfall occurred in a record two days! Fast water rescue teams from the National Guard assisted in quickly and safely rescuing 27 people and their pets. The world is full of good people who do good things.
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We simply must teach ourselves to focus on the positive in the world and keep it moving. The world we live in will never rid itself of the evil that is inevitable, but each of us has the power to make each day better for our family, friends and neighbors. Some helpful ideas: Determine what being a good person means to you and be that person Choose a role model Stop comparing yourself with others, you can only do what you can do Love yourself and others Be yourself, don’t follow the in crowd Make small changes, daily Review your goals every day Pray The more you change and grow, the more you can change the world around you. Cultivate peace Do good, do good… 8 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Community Hero
Vision & Purpose Community Magazine Celebrates Our Community Hero! Vision & Purpose Community Magazine (VPCM): What would you like our readers to know about you? Ashly Barrow (AB): Ashley Barrow has over 16 years of personal and professional experience in the transfer of care planning. She spent most of her career helping individuals who have critical care needs compounded with social barriers transition through the multilayered discharge planning and the community care planning process. In 2020, she founded the digital health platform RE-Assist which integrates the case manager, patient, and service provider in one application. 9/2022 was selected as a MIT Solver Team. VPCM: What is your greatest strength/asset? AB: My greatest strength is moving forward and never giving up.
Adovacate * Loving * Fearless
Ashley Barrow 10 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
VPCM: How do you use your gift/talent to give back to the community? AB: We work in the community with senior and disabled housing units to provide post-acute help sessions that hope to prevent hospitalizations and improve quality of life. We also volunteer at the ALMS Christin Church Loves Way Community Food Pantry as well as work with WeThrive Forest Park. During the holiday season, we also partner with our local dignitaries and other organizations to give out food distributions throughout the county. VPCM: What does community mean to you? SP: Community means belonging, love, hope, and building a better future.
VPCM: What is your expertise for great leadership? SP: Truthfully speaking, being my authentic self. It is the ability to listen, be inclusive, and hearing others. VPCM: Who/What inspires you and why? AB: I have a lot of barriers, but I am still able to move forward and not only have an impact with my family. I have used the talents the Lord has given me and have impacted the national and global entities with processes I have developed and give back to the community. I have been told to stop but I will never stop being an advocate for individuals that are vulnerable. I teach that to my kids too, so they can continue to breath the same life into the community and birth a greater impact. VPCM: What does Vision and Purpose mean to you? AB: Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. VPCM: Give an affirmation quote and/or biblical scripture that you live by? AB: I literally live my life by treating others the way that I would like to be treated. I always attempt to greet people with love and respect. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 11
Community Hero Vision & Purpose Community Magazine Celebrates Our Youth Community Hero!
Aaron Bess Jr Vision & Purpose Community Magazine (VPCM): What is your name and how old are you? Aaron Bess Jr (AB): My name is Aaron Bess Jr and I am 13 years old VPCM: Give just three words to describe yourself. AB: Kind, Resourceful, and knowledgeable. VPCM: What grade are you in and what school do you attend? AB: I'm in 8th Grade and I currently attend Winton Woods middle school. VPCM: What is your favorite subject in school? AB: My favorite subject in school is Mathematics. VPCM: Who is your role model and why? AB: My mom is my role model because she sacrifices herself to make sure to take care of me and my siblings and I have her to thank for everything. VPCM: What do you like about being a youth? AB: What I like about being a youth is that I'm able to experience and reflect upon what I might want to be in the future. 12 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
VPCM: What is the hard part about being a youth? AB: The hard part about being a youth is that you have less freedom than an adult but the more you grow and mature the more you are able to unlock things like freedom. VPCM: What are your special talents/gifts? AB: A special gift that I have and take pride in is my athletic abilities I am fast and also amazing at basketball. VPCM: What community services do you do? AB: I am currently a junior deacon at Alms Christian Church. VPCM: What does community mean to you? AB: To me, community means extended family because it's people around me that I have known almost my whole life. VPCM: What do you love about your family? AB: I love how they are so supportive of what I am doing at such a young age. VPCM: What is your favorite family time? AB: My favorite family time is when we all sit at the dinner table and just talk about what has happened throughout the day. VPCM: What do you want to be when you grow up? AB: I would like to be an entrepreneur when I grow up because I wouldn't have to work for anybody and I'm already on my way there. VPCM: What else would you like to say? AB: Thank you so much for the nomination and opportunity. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 13
Business & Entrepreneurship
When Business Becomes Personable By Karen McConnell-Jones It is true that when most of us start our own business, we are coming from a place of purpose, being passionate, seeing the need for a particular service and/or the need to serve. When business is being approached from a more personal point of view, you allow your business to be more inviting, more endearing, and taking care of others first. Statistics show that when a business is operating from a personable point of view, the business tends to have a better success rate. The business tends to build greater long-term clients and business relationships. Statistics also show that your target audience gets the best of your customer service and can relate to your business purpose even more. When you are personable it does tend to make you more relatable. Meet husband and wife team Marc Curry and Angela Gore Curry, both are experts in the fitness and mental mindset of yoga. Yoga is one of many common ground spaces that permits the loving couple to work together. They both have been practicing yoga for many years before launching their yoga business, Arise Educational Services, LLC began in June of 2020.
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Marc is an attorney and has been practicing law for nearly 30 years. He primarily practices litigation, working in a diverse range of practice areas, ranging from security clearance eligibility, to police misconduct, personal injury, and municipal services law. Angela is an elementary school teacher and yoga instructor who specializes in working with at-risk youth. She entered this field because she passionately believes that education levels the playing field for everyone, and with a level playing field, all can succeed regardless of socio-economic background. “In starting Arise Educational Services, my line of work did not change. Rather it evolved. I have the same zeal for teaching that I did when I first began 25 years ago. As my career developed, I noticed how much a child’s academic accomplishments were dependent upon their physical and emotional well-being. At or about this time, I had coincidentally begun practicing yoga. I was pleasantly surprised that not only was it helping me stay in shape; it was improving my emotional wellbeing. I then concluded that if it was this helpful to me, that yoga and its principals might help my students and I must add, there are many wonderful elementary school teachers, yoga instructors, and mindfulness instructors. However, there are not many Elementary school teachers who are qualified yoga or mindfulness instructors, and there are not many yoga or mindfulness instructors who are qualified to teach children. Because I am qualified in all of these fields, I recognized an opportunity, and decided to start a business that combines both teaching, yoga, and mindfulness.” Marc chimed in by sharing that he has always been physically active, enjoying weightlifting, jogging, cycling, and hiking. However, in the late 2000s, he developed a heart problem. Initially, it could be controlled with medication. Nevertheless, it continued to worsen, prompting Marc to have two corrective surgeries. After the second surgery, his doctor suggested that he begin practicing yoga. “While recuperating, I read up on yoga and its practice in relation to my heart problem, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that there was ample literature about the correlation of yoga practice and an improvement in the heart function for people who suffered from my malady. I then began practicing yoga and noticed immediate improvement. Now, yoga is a part of my daily routine. It is my way of living a healthier life and having a positive mindset which I enjoy working with my wife and having yoga to be our business platform.” Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 15
They both were in agreement that yoga tones the body, improves flexibility, and helps with balance. Depending on the type of yoga flow that you can practice, it can build strength, increase stamina, and help with weight loss. The mindfulness aspect of yoga helps manage stress, improve mood, and improve focus. Of particular importance to children, it helps boost self-esteem, regulate behavior, and helps them empathize with others. Much of stress involves worrying about the negative future impact of today’s problems. Yoga and its corresponding mindfulness component trains us to focus on the present and not be preoccupied with the future. Absent of anxiety, we can confront our problems in a more rational, grounded manner.
Angela goes on to say, “we know our individual strengths and weaknesses, and are open to constructive criticism. Knowing what we individually are good at (and not so good at), without pride blurring the picture helps us delegate tasks, and meet evolving challenges more nimbly and effectively.” Yes, says Marc “I agree. As Angela’s business partner, I am her number one cheerleader. In addition to helping with mundane, day-to-day issues related to operating a business, I am a sounding board for program development and planning-related issues. Yet, more importantly, I am her biggest sounding board when she shares a proud moment of this particular day during a summer camp session when the light bulb went on for some of her more oppositional students when they went from openly expressing disdain for yoga, to leading the yoga flows. This is a great joy for us, when we can see the children’s transformation right before our eyes.” The Curry’s have envisioned a society where all students have the same opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of economic background, and where all children are taught to respect themselves, one another, their community, and their environment. Their purpose is to continue using the principles of yoga and mindfulness to help achieve this vision. Final thoughts from the Curry’s, “Our society is plagued by economic inequality and inequality of educational opportunity. Communities of color disproportionately suffer from these problems. Moreover, these problems manifest themselves in physical problems such as obesity, anxiety, and high blood pressure. Using yoga can help to still the mind, help with teaching, and yoga's physical benefits can help manage chronic health problems. Economic inequality and its negative repercussions are generational, and will not be solved in one generation. Moreover, yoga is not a cure-all for these problems. However, if we can help children classroom by classroom become more focused; if we can help make life just a little bit better for people with chronic illnesses and anxiety, then we will consider our practice a success.” 16 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Health & Wellness
Dog-Ergy By Kyonna F. Brown
As a pet professional for over 20 years, I have had the amazing experience of witnessing the amazing effects pets can have on your life. I have a great love and compassion for grooming all pets, yet this article is geared toward the dog lover in me. I know you’re probably lost by reading this title, so let me explain. Owning dogs can have a great impact on the energy that we present to the world. In my experience, energy is a great part of where you are mentally and dogs have the power to help you shift your mindset. As human beings we thrive off of energy. It can make or break business deals. It can determine if you want to be friends with someone or not. It can also determine where you live, along with many other things. Energy is an invisible animation that no one sees but can be felt. The energy of an atmosphere can be so thick that when the door opens with a room filled with people you will either decide to enter or simply close the door. I recently learned that animals even have a transfer of energy just by touching them, dogs especially. Dogs run out in the sun and have aggressive movement to get from one place to the next. Their legs are doing double time motion and just like solar panels they are absorbing power that produces transferable energy. When they are touched that energy is then transferred. It will perk up a drained person. Turn sadness into calmness. Their energy will alter moods.
This is one of the primary reasons for using dogs and pets for therapeutic use. In 2019 I had a surplus of free time. I would visit the pet shelter to walk dogs as a way to volunteer and help to socialize the pets. Every time I left; I was in a good mood. I smiled more; I was pleasant to be around. Sometimes I was not in a happy place when I arrived. At that time, I didn’t know the science behind it but their positive energy even in that rough patch of their life of being in a shelter made a great impact on my life. As I work with dogs on a day-today basis, I also find that their energy alters my perception on life. No matter how much they may dislike grooming they still will present themselves in such a way that lets you know that they may be uncomfortable with what’s going on, but passively let you know that they would like you to stop. When giving off that kind of energy, it alerts me to work with them, go slower, or have someone hold them. I’m able to peacefully and calmly figure out a way to complete my task. Let me give you a prime example of how that energy given most often determines the outcome of a situation. As people, most often the energy we give when we don’t like something is negative. Not all people but a great portion. That then makes the other person become defensive. Then it’s all downhill from there. Now, don’t get me wrong, not all pets behave in the passive manner but most do and because their energy pushes you gently for change, it makes it easier to perform differently or think of different ways to handle the situation. Dog-ergy is what I believe is a very powerful tool that God created to help us as humans manage this thing called life. Let’s walk our dogs more. Get that energy going. You have the medicine to life right on the other end of your leash.
Health & Wellness
Self-Mastery is the Ultimate Goal By Candice Camille
What’s standing in the way of you reaching the level of success you desire, enjoying a great relationship, having enough energy to get through the day, getting off medication, losing weight or seeing your abs for the first time? Is the problem that you don’t know enough? NO. Is there too much competition? Not even close. The only obstacle is a lack of mastery over yourself. Don’t believe it? YOU WILL! Are you in great shape? Do you only eat healthy foods? Why not? Is it because you’re confused about which foods are healthy and which are not? Are you confused about whether it’s better to exercise by running down the block or by sitting on the couch? HARDLY! Ok, what are you pretending not to know? You know enough to make significant changes in your life. Knowledge isn’t the challenge. The challenge is managing yourself and your behaviors. Haven’t had a date in a year? Are you confused about how to get a date? The key to getting dates is to ask people out. How many people have you asked out in the last week? How many new people have you spoken to in the last week? Are you able to say the things that need to be said? Are you able to listen and be silent when you know you should? Can you make yourself go to the gym or eat an apple instead of a piece of apple pie? 20 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Mastering yourself is the only goal you need to achieve. From that, you can achieve all your other goals! Try these strategies to become the master of yourself: 1. Make a list of the things you should do each day but aren’t. This list might include things like exercising, drinking eight glasses of water, paying your bills, flossing, and making social connections. 2. Make a list of the things you do each day but shouldn’t. Maybe you stay up too late, watch too much TV, waste time playing video games, on social media too long and show up late to work. Think about all the things you do that sacrifice your health, career, business finances, social life, and happiness. 3. Begin by addressing one item from each list. Slowly eliminate one of the negative items and add one of the positive items. Habits are challenging to change, but you’ve developed habits without even trying. Imagine what you can accomplish intentionally. 4. Have a long-term focus. Negative behaviors have short-term rewards. Eating ice cream or watching TV are rewarding immediately. They can be harmful in the long-term, but they pay off right now. Adopt a long-term focus and consider the long-term implications of your behavior before you indulge in it. What will it cost you down the road if you don’t change? 5. Realize that your mind is the enemy. Why does a person eat a bag of potato chips instead of an orange? He imagines himself eating chips. Then he imagines eating an orange. Then he chooses the one that feels better. But your mind is deceiving you. Humans seek pleasure, just like any other animal. The advantage humans have over animals is the ability to make decisions and not follow instinct. The disadvantage we have is the ability to create pleasurable foods and activities that are detrimental to long-term success and survival. Self-mastery is the key. If you can master yourself, everything else becomes easy. Key your attention on the long-term impact of behaviors and avoid short-term pleasures that lead to long-term challenges. 21 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Education Is Key Preserving Wilberforce University (HBCU) Legacy By Michelle DeMarcia Davis While attending Wilberforce University Professors did a good job advising me of the importance of being an Alumni. We must continuously evolving to help others evolve their education. De-Ajura (Dee) Mathenia, our Cincinnati Chapter President of Wilberforce University Alumni Association, shared great insight about being an active Alumni aka Wilberforcean. Meet De-Ajura (Dee) Mathenia Dee is a visionary who believes vision and purpose are intertwined. She knows there has to be a plan that is both strategic and tactical in order to achieve any goals associated with the purpose. Her actions show, she believes through dedication and hard work goals are obtainable and achieved. The Cincinnati Chapter, like Wilberforce University, is small and mighty. It’s comprised of twenty-five dedicated alumni who are focused on engaging with the Cincinnati community to share the great opportunities and rich history of Wilberforce University. In Cincinnati, the Queen City, the Methodist Episcopal Church and the African American Methodist Episcopal Church collaborated to purchase the land that would serve as the initial location for Wilberforce University. The Cincinnati community and our school-age students, also need to know that Wilberforce University is the nation’s first Historically Black University (HBCU) privately owned by African Americans, founded in 1856.
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The Cincinnati Chapter's goals, mission, vision, and values align with the National Alumni Association; which is to promote the welfare of Wilberforce University, its Alumni, and society at large with funding, student referrals, and overall support for the good of the continuing existence of the University. Our alumni association is organized for the mutual benefit and prosperity of Wilberforce University, graduates, former students, and others committed to our Alma Mater. The ultimate goal of our work and dedication will strengthen and support our Alma Mater ensuring it remains a viable institution and memories of our student experience be kept alive. Specifically, the Cincinnati Chapter is focused on increasing knowledge of Wilberforce University, its rich history, and the alumni network through a three-pronged focus of community involvement, partnership with local K -12 schools, and local churches.
The preparation of current and future, leadership of the chapter ensures the local chapter remains vibrant and active. The steadfast chapter leaders and members like Rev. Kenneth Bibb, Gloria Jenkins, Walter Vaughn, and Milton Wiggins, have worked to mentor and prepare, Dee and all other chapter members, to ensure that our local chapter history is preserved and proper operation and procedures are incorporated. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 23
The Wilberforce University Alumni Association held its 54th National Alumni Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was a major celebration to commemorate excellence, kindness, and innovation. The conference theme was “Preserving Our Legacy and Future by Sowing Our Treasures”. The conference journey was a joint effort between the local Cincinnati Chapter and the National Alumni Conference Committee. The main focus of the local chapter was to showcase all the great things the City of Cincinnati has to offer to the 250-plus alumni who were expected to travel to Cincinnati for the conference. In partnership with great locations such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, The Summit Hotel, Queen City Riverboats, and Visit Cincy a wonderful conference experience and visit to the Queen City was anticipated. Doing my interview with Chapter President Dee took me back down memory lane. I recalled when I attended Wilberforce University, it was a wonderful decision in my life. My education angel, co-worker, and friend Covette presented Wilberforce University for our B.S. and then I.W.U for our M.B.As. As adult learners with a lot of responsibilities, the WU C.L.I.M.B satellite program set us up for success. Being in one location, creating cohorts of dynamic individuals to grow with, and providing great professors assisted me in elevating critical thinking and thought processes; not only in education but life. I was fortunate to walk away with lifelong friendships, lessons, and blessings. Dee provided all these great details of why they call Wilberforce University the WU (Woo). As Membership and Recruitment for our Cincinnati Chapter and member of the Wilberforce University Alumni Association, it was so exciting to learn new things through the interview I didn’t know and be able to share them with you. Hopefully, you will be inspired and/or inspire someone else to evolve and register at Wilberforce University or become an active Alumni member. 24 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Authors Speak
THE VOICE OF POETRY By Cortland Jones I, TOO by Langston Hughes I, too, sing America. I am the darker brother. They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes. But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong. Tomorrow, I’ll be at the table When company comes. Nobody’ll dare Say to me, “Eat in the kitchen,” Then. Besides, They’ll see how beautiful I am And be ashamedI, too, am America
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I was first acquainted with this poetry selection by Langston Hughes watching the movie The Great Debaters starring and directed by Denzel Washington. I remembered the manner in which it was recited by Denzel in the movie playing the role of Melvin Tolson, who was a professor at Wiley College in Texas, a historically black college. Tolson is remembered in history, during the 1930’s, for leading his debate team of college students on a successive streak of victories that included the University of Southern California, who were the reigning national champions. During the movie, Tolson’s character, played by Denzel, highlights famous writers and poets, including Langston Hughes and makes mention and reference to a ‘revolution’ occurring in the north, in reference to the Harlem Renaissance that Langston Hughes was a part of.
I became reacquainted with the poem I, Too, in April 2023 when I purchased a book of poetry written by Langston Hughes titled Poetry For Young People: Langston Hughes. The selection was included in the collection of poems that also included illustrations for each poem written. I purchased the book as part of a show and tell presentation community event celebrating National Poetry Month. There was something about the manner in which the poem was recited during the movie that resonated and remained with me, and today I pass it along hoping that it may resonate with others too. As I reflect and write about this poetry selection, I am reminded of my recent reading of The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. DuBois and his reference to the ‘veil’ that separates us from whites when it comes to their lives in contrast to our own. Paraphrasing what he spoke of in his book, we view from behind a veil a life that we are separated from that we can only imagine, but are withheld from experiencing. This is what I take away from this poetry selection written by Langston Hughes. Both Hughes and DuBois lived during the time period following slavery and the Harlem Renaissance. They were both celebrated for their contributions to society through their intellect and literature. They reinforce the power of the narrative and impact of making use of our ‘voice’ to be a positive contributor to the world around us. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 27
Does the ‘veil’ DuBois spoke of still exist today? The poem I, Too speaks of a time period that, in some aspects of our world today, may not be much different from times past. Where progress has been made and should be acknowledged and celebrated since the time period known as the Civil Rights Era of the 1950’s and 60’s, there are still instances in America where we are still being treated unfairly, where justice is delayed and denied. Hughes captures the perspective of how we were seen and treated as if we were somehow less than human, of lesser value in the eyes of those who despise us. Though time has clearly proven our self-worth and value, our present sufferings indicate there are those amongst us who still see us and desire for us to remain in the kitchen undeserving to be at the table. There are those who would prefer we continue to live lives behind the ‘veil’ at a distance from the wealth and prosperity of what this nation provides that we helped to build. Isn’t it ironic it was, at one time in America, illegal to teach a slave to read and, today, it is now illegal in the state of Florida to teach African American history? Somehow laws continue to pass that keep us separate, oppressed, suppressed and behind a ‘veil’ limiting us from knowledge, self-awareness, and economic empowerment. Writers and poets like DuBois and Hughes provide us with a voice and narrative that awakens us to the truth and arouses within us the motivation to engage in the pursuit of personal justice and justice for our communities. The poem begins with I, too sing America and concludes with I, too, am America. The 14th Amendment of the Constitution affords us the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In one of his famous landmark speeches, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. simply articulated that America should be true to what it said on paper. It took 100 years, from the inception of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution in 1865 for America to recognize, with the passing of the Civil Rights Law of 1965 to acknowledge our rights should be protected, under the law. King, DuBois, Hughes all represent, along with the collective voice of our ancestors and those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of justice for our communities, the voice in I, Too that declares, ‘Tomorrow, I will be at the table when company comes and they will see how beautiful I am and be ashamed.’ 28 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Bestselling Author
When we hear the term “Surviving Life” it can mean so many different things depending on the individual you are asking and what their circumstances looks like at the time. Yet, there is one thing we know for sure and that is no matter what our circumstances are, it is our mindset that dictates our outcome. Even in our most difficult times, we are still hopeful for the light at the end of the tunnel. And as the Word tells us “In all things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.” Nevertheless, we also know that life is real and at times, it can be challengingly overwhelming. Which in terms, can cause one to feel that all hope is lost. Yet, have we, as society, given them a safe haven place that they can lean on or turn to? The short answer is NO! Not nearly enough, as statistics shows us that we still put such a bad stigma around someone who has falling and/or are having mental health crises. How do we fix this? What can we do as a community to be better keepers of someone who is in need of our help and understanding? Well, I believe it takes the courageousness of our survivors to share their story, as we must give them the platform and our listening ear without judgement to do so. Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine had the honor of sitting down with Wellologist Candice Camille, as she walked us through that place in time where “Surviving Life” has taken her to and through. We thank you Candice for your transparency, and for taking us back to you most vulnerable time in life. You have allowed us to see what true resilience and courage really looks like. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 31
Meet Wellologist Candice Camille When you experience Candice Camille, you will get a strong sense that everything about you is about to change. She is exceptionally engaging, yet have a very direct approach to life. One will feel a sense of urgency to do something NOW, while in her presence and even when you have left her presence. With her boundless energy, infectious laughter, genuine enthusiasm for life and a body that epitomizes Sexy Fit & Well, one cannot help but be convinced that 60+ can indeed be the new 40. Before being diagnosed with tracheal cancer, it never occurred to Candice that she had the power within her own being to decide whether to be well. She did not know prior to facing death that something as simple as making up her mind could indeed change the trajectory of not only her life, but also the lives of the people that she has had the honors to meet. Candice is the CEO of Candice Camille International LLC, “Your Wellness Company” Founder of The Sexy Fit & Well Movement and Plank Talk Nation. Candice is a planking world record contender, an award-winning sort after International Speaker and Media Personality. Candice has been in the Health and Wellness industry for over 20 years. Alongside, she is a Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner, Pulmonary Function Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Emotional Mastery Coach, Certified Nutritionist, and Amazon bestselling Author. Candice has partnered with ambitious women ready to meet the highest version of themselves. “Yes, I show them how to transition from worried to work out to working it out to achieve their wellness goals and to become Sexy Fit & Well. I equip them with the tools to elevate their emotional, spiritual, mental and physical well-being. Focusing on meals, mindset and movement. Achieving results, they can see in their body and feel it in their soul. I was diagnosed with cancer in my 30’s. I conquered cancer, and I am now and has been cancer free for 30+ years. I “went to work” and not only became cancer-free, but also became an advocate of wellness overall. I know the process and the power of being well. I discovered that healing must come from within. Healing from the inside out became my superpower.”
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Candice goes on to share that she believes that mental health is so crucial, it really does affect every aspect of our lives. “What you think about yourself, you will bring about. Your inner picture will determine your outer world. It impacts your thoughts, how you think, feel and behave. It influences our behavior patterns, how we interact with other people, work and over all well-being. Good mental health enhances your quality of life. It will contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life. In society we are told to be healthy, get in shape and exercise. We rarely hear you must build or work on your mental muscle. In my practice, working on your mind is just as important as working on your body. I believe that you can’t get your body tight until you get your mind right. Working on your mental health is essential for your personal well-being. It deserves attention, care, and DE stigmatization. Candice knows all too well of the important of taking care of your overall well-being. Especially, as she mentions your mental muscle. This is coming from someone who has personally experienced fighting courageously to get back to that healthy space and a healthier mindset after her own bout with attempting suicide. Right when she thought she had ended all the terrific events in her life, here she was being caught right back in the vortex of another storm. “If I had to describe it, I will call it a tsunami. I was literally being pushed and pulled to and from the depths of my soul. My dreams, for which I work so hard were vastly becoming a nightmare. I truthfully had an incredible vision for the business, but things didn’t turn out quite the way I planned. My view from my pit. Or should I say the deep dark hole that I thought I was digging myself out of, I was digger deeper and deeper into the pit. At that moment, my life came to a screeching halt. I found myself in the midst of a business divorce. I got very angry, and just like any other divorce it got ugly! I thought I was fighting for my life, but in the end, it turned out to be just stuff. I had exhausted all of my money to the point where I couldn’t even fulfill my basic needs. I had nothing to eat but a few slices of molded bread and some jelly. I had asked myself if I could eat that molded bread and if so, would it kill me. I was too hungry not to find out. Took that route because of my ego, having too much pride to call anyone for help. I wouldn’t dare tell them of my destitute situation. My whole life was being snatched away from me. It took me back to a place in my life where I was homeless. I was about to lose everything I had worked for since then. How did I find myself back there? A place where you only operated in survival mode. I had to make a decision and my response had to count. My mind during the day told me to fight for my dream, while at night my reality was the source of all my pain. I felt like the people in my life had turned against me, family, friends, business associates and partners. I felt no one really cared if I lived or died including me.” Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 33
“I was operating business as usual during the day, becoming very good at masking my pain. Oh, but when I was alone at night the weight of the world pinned me down for the count. I was so embarrassed and afraid of being judged which only prolong my devastation. Although I put up a good front in the daytime hours, I knew that it will eventually come to a head because things didn’t turn out quite the way I planned.” “Slowly but surely, I lost my will to fight during the night I heard voices in my mind telling me enough is enough already, how much more of this can you take? However, no matter what the voice said to me I held onto a few Bible scriptures I remembered to get me through the day. “Do not fear, for I am with you; don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” “He gives power to the weak and faint and those who have no might He increases strength.” They gave me strength to operate during the day, but of course it was back to the “Battlefield of the Mind” at night. One long and deeply lonely night, the wall seems to be closing in on me. The room got smaller and smaller darker and darker. That night I felt as if my life was in danger and God wouldn’t have a chance to see me this time so, I thought. The conversations in my mind had taken over with a Bible clenched in one hand and a book Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer’s in the other hand. I sat there thinking that no one really loved me. As far as I was concerned nothing I tried worked or appear to be true at least not for me, I finally got tired of fighting the voices in my head. My heart and soul grow weary that night and I decided it was time to put it all to rest. Oh, how I needed the peace and rest. I was willing to go where I knew I couldn’t be found. I had it all figured out, I ask God to let me rest let me come to where He was and just rest. I grabbed the only pills I could put my hands on which was my blood pressure medication. With my medical background and the internet. I knew that if you took the right number of pills, they were reduced my blood pressure so low that it will stop my heart, kidneys and lungs. Now, and finally I will be resting so peacefully in the arms of God. I no longer had to fight. Needless to say, things didn’t turn out quite the way I planned.” 34 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
“God had a change of plans. I couldn’t even get this right. I woke up later in the very same spot but in a pool of my own body fluids. The first thing I thought, man, God doesn’t even want me. And immediately, the most loving words I could ever hear came gently back to me saying “I gave you what you asked for I gave you rest.” His words showed me a deeper side of His care for me and that didn’t require me to die to rest. It took me a few hours to get myself together and even then, I was so embarrassed to call anyone. I got dressed and drove myself to urgent care to make sure I was ok, that I was still alive. The doctor told me that because I had taken such good care of my heart over the years it essentially kept me going when I had given up. My body took over when my mind let go. Beyond my faith in God, investing in my self-love in the past, and meshing daily, help me save my life.” Candice went on to express that she hopes by sharing her story that she can help someone who maybe struggle with suicidal thoughts, that it is best to reach out to someone we can trust and to seek professional help right away. Yes, Candice’s story continues to show us that in life, things may not turn out quite the way we planned, but, at any given moment we have the authority to say “This is not how my story ends.” We have the power to turn our pain into purpose which leads us to a better plan. Now is the time to “lean not” unto your own understanding. Let go and let God. We are responsible for our choices and actions; however, God chooses the consequences and outcomes based on the work we are willing to do. We must be careful of our choices esp. in times of sadness, anger and disappointment. Our consequences and rewards are just one choice away. Choose wisely! Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 35
Feelings are not facts; they are moments in our lives. Don’t make a permanent decision on a temporary moment or situation. No matter what happens, with God’s help and our actions, we will rediscover pleasure and joy. Make the decision to do and be better for yourself by taking care of you. Now is the time for us to work on our well-being, body, mind and spirit. When life happens and knocks us down, we can depend on our faith and our body’s equity to stand up for us in our moments of weakness. Remember that we are not being tested to show our weakness but to discover our power and strengths. “God gives power to the weak and faint, and to those who have no might He increases strength.” Here's what we know for sure, better is always available if we want it and willing to do the work to get it. So, when life knocks us down, we now have the power to get back up. Let’s give ourselves some compassion, create our happiness, laugh out loud and remember to breath. We get to decide. Candice takes a moment to reflect. “One of the things I learned through this difficult situation and challenge. My challenge was an opportunity that manifest into possibilities. It was now time to follow through, take the lessons, create a cheat sheet and overcome all the obstacles to grow. I unleashed my mental strength by preparing for whatever lies ahead. I realized I can do almost anything if I set my mind to it and with help. The first thing is to recognize I needed help. I am no longer afraid to raise my hand. There’s always someone to talk to. I found that person. It’s ok to seek support from a trusted family member or friend. Last and certainly not least I got professional help. I now practice mindfulness. I manage my feelings and thoughts. Be aware of what is going on in your head so you can make sound decisions. Challenge faulty beliefs and develop more constructive ways of coping. I remain true to my core values. I created a physical fitness program for myself and others. A total transformation for the mind and body, with emphasis on building your mental muscle which by the way will give you staying power. Working out is one the most underrated antidepressants. I mesh and move my body daily. I set realistic goals, aiming for targets I can reach.” 36 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Candice goes on to say that she is inspired by the many women who have allowed her to help them turn their pain into pleasure by something she said. She honored to be a part of their transformation. Having impact on their accomplishments increases her soul fire.
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At one point, Candice didn’t believe there was a God. She lived such a horrific life. She often wondered where was God in her life. Where was this supernatural being and why was He allowing her to suffer. Through her trials and tribulations, what she learned that God wasn’t just this supernatural being in the sky. He was the love and light in her that she had to surrender to. Once she surrendered and believed, she established a relationship with God that is now never ending. Her walk with God is part of her personal development. She thanks God for the paradigm shift that allowed her to BE. In this relationship she promised God to pay it forward and offer her wellness gift to the world. Today, she does what’s necessary to stay in alignment for the assignment. “As a committed community leader, Co-Founder of Girls Run, Inc. where I serve as a running and mentoring coach for young girls. I believe if we start the conversation at an early age there’s a better chance to head off some of the problems we will face later in life.” As we bring the interview to a close Candice gives us her final thoughts and stand out moments in life. “Beyond giving birth to my children and seeing my first grand baby come into this world and spending time with my family creating memorable moments, my most precious and rememberable moments for me was when my cancer went into remission, and I fired my boss to start my own business. “The Mind is the Master power that molds and makes. And you are mind, and evermore your mind takes. The tool of thought, and, the shaping what it wills. It will bring forth a thousand joys, a thousand ills. You think in secret, and it comes to pass. Your mind is but your looking glass.” What you think about you bring about. Your inner picture determines your outer word. Your mind is the most powerful thing in the world. When you change your mind, you change your world. When God gives you strength to open your eyes each morning, thank Him and remember that your health is the first thing and everything else is the next thing.”
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Bonus Question Vision & Purpose (V&P) Community Magazine: What does the term Vision and Purpose means to you? Candice Camille (CC): When I think of vision and purpose: I think globally! Looking at the bigger picture to serve the world. Wanting to leave a positive and lasting impact on everything and everyone that’s touched. V&P: As we celebrate National Suicide Prevention Month what would you like our readers to know about the importance of this month and what can we do to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention? CC: The fact that we celebrate such a month as this, means we still have work to do. We all can help with suicide prevention by keeping the conversation going without judgement and stigmatism attached to it. This requires a plan at all society levels. Learn the warning signs and promote prevention. Final Message from V&P: If you or a loved one is experiencing behavioral despair and in need of emotional support, please dial 988. The Lifeline is available 24/7 across the United States. It is free, and confidential.
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Community Outreach September National Childhood Obesity Month, about 1 in 5 (19%) children in the United States has obesity. Certain groups of children are more affected than others. National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month provides a chance for all of us to learn more about this serious health condition. While there is no simple solution, there are many ways communities can support children with their journey to good health. Yellow is the ribbon color for Childhood Obesity Month. September: National Recovery Month, Every September, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) sponsors Recovery Month to increase awareness and understanding of mental and substance use disorders and celebrate the people who have recovered. Turquoise is the ribbon color for Recovery Month.
October October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marked in countries across the world every October, helps to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment as well as palliative care of this disease. There are about 1.38 million new cases and 458,000 deaths from breast cancer each year (IARC Globocan, 2008). Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide, both in the developed and developing countries. In low- and middle-income countries the incidence has been rising up steadily in the last years due to increase in life expectancy, increase urbanization and adoption of western lifestyles. Pink is the ribbon color for Breast Cancer Month. October: National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, October was first declared as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in 1989. Since then, October has been a time to acknowledge domestic violence survivors and be a voice for its victims. Domestic violence is prevalent in every community, and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. Physical violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, systematic pattern of dominance and control. Purple is the ribbon color for Domestic Violence Month. October: World Mental Health Day, is observed on 10th of October every year, with the overall objective of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health. Green is the ribbon color for Mental Health Day.
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September 2023 Days:
October 2023 Days:
5th International Day of Charity 5th Labor Day (United States) 8th International Literacy Day 10th World Suicide Prevention Day 13th World Sepsis Day 15th International Day of Democracy 21st International Day of Peace 22nd World Rhino Day 27th World Tourism Day 28th World Rabies Day 29th World Rivers Day 29th World Heart Day
1st International Day of Older Persons 2nd International Day of Nonviolence 4th World Animal Day 5th World Teachers’ Day 6th World Cerebral Palsy Day 7th World Habitat Day 8th World Sight Day 9th World Post Day 10th World Mental Health Day 10th World Homeless Day 11th International Day of the Girl Child 12th Indigenous Peoples’ Day / Columbus Day (United States) 12th World Arthritis Day 15th International Day of Rural Women 16th World Food Day 16th Global Cat Day 17th International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 18th World Values Day 24th United Nations Day 27th World Day of Audiovisual Heritage 29th World Internet Day 31st World Cities Day
Month Long Awareness: National Childhood Obesity Month National Recovery Month World Alzheimer’s Month Biodiversity Month Healthy Aging Month World Sepsis Month and Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month
Month Long: Breast Cancer Awareness Month Domestic Violence Awareness Month Cyber Security Month Down Syndrome Awareness Month (United States) Energy Awareness Month (United States) Hunger Awareness Month (United States) Learning Disabilities Awareness Month (United States) LGBT History Month (United States) National Economic Education Month SIDS Awareness Month (United States)
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Community Outreach
From Pews to Purpose By Michelle DeMarcia Davis
Pastor/Teacher Dwayne D. Flood humbly says “I’m a nobody, trying to tell everybody, about somebody, who saves anybody.” The move of the Holy Spirit called him to preach and whom he gives all control of his life. His heart’s desire is to please Him. He truly believes that God sent him to Pastor the loving people of Trinity Missionary Baptist Church (TMBC) – Madisonville, OH. He accepted his call to pastor TMBC on January 22, 2022, and he sincerely loves the great people of TMBC. Pastor Flood has always had an admiration and love for the Word of God. When it comes to biblical interpretation, he is very studious and careful to rightly divide the Word of Truth (2 Timothy 2:15). He stands on the Bible as it is written, and he preaches and teaches with strong convictions concerning biblical theology. Pastor is the proud husband of twenty-eight years to Latoya Flood, and they share four beautiful children; Isaiah, Kaleb, Simeon, and Khira. His favorite quote is by Les Brown, “When life knocks you down, try to land on your back. Because if you can look up, you can get up.” His favorite Bible verse is Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” 42 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
TMBC is friendly, family-oriented and knows that Community Outreach is a critical aspect of the church. The church is composed of people, not the building. They are the church that God uses in order to bless others who are in need. The Bible says, "Give and it shall be given unto you; good measure pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again" (Luke 6:38). TMB wants God to bless them in the same manner that they bless others. Pastor Flood states “Community Outreach is a direct reflection that Jesus has for us. Since Jesus loves us all, we should love as He loves. Jesus gave all that He had . . . Himself. The church has a responsibility to show forth the love of Jesus Christ. In return, those who experience His love may come to accept the precious gift of salvation.” TMBC shares the love of Jesus Christ that transforms the heart through faith and develops spiritual growth through the teaching of the Gospel. (Matthew 28:19-20). To experience the love of Jesus Christ that leads to salvation (Romans 5:8). They believe in one God, creator of all things, infinitely perfect, and eternally existing in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. TMB stands firmly on the Word of God and allows it to lead, guide, and provide instruction on how to live a Spirit-filled life. Pastor Flood shared his thoughts on some of the challenges that he faces. “The pace – at times your heart’s desire is to do and be everywhere at the same time. This leads to exhaustion and burnout. I have learned that I must keep in step with the Holy Spirit. Not behind Him, and certainly not in front of Him. I simply just need to hold His hand and keep in step with Him.” Growth has been exactly what I think everyone needs to grow “Belief – when you read in the Bible that He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20), it goes to a whole new level when you see Him do it. I have seen God do some amazing things in the past year. Our church went from barely surviving to thriving all due to the grace of Jesus Christ. God is great and greatly to be praised!” Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 43
When I asked what he could share about Trinity it explains why my family and I enjoy attending. “We are a loving, God-inspired, focused on the Word of God, and thriving church who simply wants to do what God has called us to do. We have classes for everyone who desires to experience God in a special way. We love the community and pour into it. We are not a perfect church, because we are filled with imperfect people. But just like people who are sick, go to the doctor to get well, we come to church to get better as we know that we need the Lord. We welcome all who desire to come to an imperfect place and experience a perfect God.” Pastor Flood states Vision reflects the ultimate destination and goal. Purpose is the burning desire that bubbles inside of you to accomplish a goal. When you put those things together, there is nothing that can’t be accomplished or achieved. He loves to encourage members to move from their pew and into their purpose because when that happens, we get front-row seats to see God do a mighty work. TMB is assisting those in need, donating money to Family and Individual Homeless Shelters, sponsoring children going to school, feeding those in need, and caring for families during the Christmas Holiday season. In 2023, they conducted two Mental Health Awareness days that help provide tools and resources to those who are struggling with mental health. On August 19, 2023, they blessed the community with a Back-To-School event giving away school supplies for teachers and students, providing money for school uniforms, and sponsoring students who can't afford to buy lunch so they are able to eat. TMB is spreading forth God's blessings on others. As we bring this interview to a close, Pastor leaves us with this inspiring message. “Today is a good day to believe in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This current life is not our home. We are at best visitors who are looking to put down that which is corruptible and one day put on that which is incorruptible. Today is a good day to be saved from what we deserve (death and hell) and receive an eternal heavenly reward with our Heavenly Father. Be blessed and my prayer is that God reigns down His tremendous blessing in your life.” Amen! 44 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Community News Flash
Healthcare Disparities in the Black Community Tori Bowie, Victim By Marjorie Middleton We are still seeking equality in a world that was not designed for us, only built by us thru the hard work of our ancestors and present-day successes and contributions. It is reported that 25% of Black people do not get healthcare because they fear being treated unfairly. Many feel that by speaking up the outcomes of exams may be affected. Medical racism exists and it attributes mainly to problems faced concerning health, including not being treated or spoken to in a respectful manner. Unbelievably, many doctors and other healthcare professionals believe that people of color do not experience pain like other people do. Studies even found that Black cancer patients got fewer opioids for pain than white patients because they were not believed. Thankfully, there are Black doctors and other professionals committed to the cause of making sure that all patients receive adequate healthcare and treatment. There are many organizations that are willing to be of support. We should also be encouraging young members of our communities to become a part of the solution by becoming involved in the healthcare profession. Becoming a talented Black pioneer will certainly change the narrative. Quality and quantity are important factors of care. Yet, a recent study shows a loss of Medicaid’s supplemental coverage disproportionally harms Black, and Hispanic, patients (Black Physicians & Healthcare Network). As income levels rise those who were recipients of supplemental Medicaid coverage now experience higher out-of-pocket expenses and will skip appointments due to overwhelming costs at the doctor’s office. This hurdle is mostly felt by older patients and there is a significant need to minimize that potential. During the peak of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Medicaid users increased because of the public health emergency, but the health emergency recently ended in May. Many will still be affected, of course, as increases in family funds occur due to returning to work which disables members from re-applying for Medicaid. Along with increased incomes, missed recertification dates and administrative errors will prevent coverages. So, by losing crucial care and dual eligibility those affected will tend to only seek care when in more advanced stages of illnesses. Chronic conditions, which can be managed, then become life-threatening. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension are included. 46 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Women of color and their maternal healthcare is another epidemic in need of immediate attention and change by legislators and the medical profession. On April 23, 2023, Frantorish “Tori” Bowie was found dead from complications of childbirth. Tori Bowie was born on August 27, 1990, born in Mississippi. In high school, she participated in basketball and track and field. As a high school senior in 2008, she won state championships in the 100 and 200-meter races, a relay team and the long jump. She was awarded a track scholarship to attend the University of Mississippi. After a successful college career, Bowie became a professional in 2013. In 2016 she won a bronze medal in the 200 meter dash and silver in the 100 meters. Authorities were called to Bowie’s home on May 2nd, after she’d not been seen or heard from in several days. She was found dead at 32 years old. Bowie was also pregnant. She had been dead since April 23rd. An autopsy revealed that she had died from results of complications from eclampsia, respiratory distress and high blood pressure. Her child was stillborn. All of these conditions were manageable. Her death brings continuing conversations about the disturbing negative health outcomes for Black women. We are more likely to die and/or have childbirth complications than white women. Many other Black women have spoken out and/or are speaking up about these disparities. Allyson Felix, a team mate of Tori Bowie, speaks of her near death birthing experience, along with Serena Williams and Beyonce. Ending institutional racism and racial and gender discrimination should be a priority in our communities. We must be responsible for speaking up and making sure our community is well cared for. We all deserve excellent healthcare. Continuous efforts to chip away at healthcare disparities and discrimination will be a story whose ending will shape our futures in a meaningful and profound way. Be a part of voting the right officials into office and then holding them accountable. Be a part of the solution and speak up when inequality exists in the medical field for yourself or others. Schedule your physical exam TODAY!
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All Things Fashion
Do You Like the Things Life Is Showing You? Most of us have some things we would like to improve on. We all like to look good. But at what cost? Folks are spending millions on plastic surgery and BBLs. The ladies want that coke bottle shape. No waist and huge butt even if they have chicken legs. Some have lost limbs and some have lost their lives chasing that body. I get it! I'm a man. I can appreciate a beautiful shape. I love the curve of a Black woman. Poetry in motion is what it is. But I think it has been taken over board. Fake everything. Butts, hair, eyelashes, breast, lips, hips, names, and addresses. Do we love anything about ourselves? Self-hate is at an all-time high. Even elementary age children are committing suicide because of bullying and body shaming. We are taught early to hate ourselves, building low self-esteem. Things we experience in our early childhood become issues of our adult lives. Many of us would do well to seek a psychiatrist to help us work through our issues. Most of us won't seek the help needed. We will continue to self-medicate and go under the knife or other means to achieve what we think is beautiful. How long do the eyelashes need to be? How big is the perfect a----? How large will your breast have to be in order for you to love yourself? Truth is we may never learn to love ourselves. I wonder what The Most High will say to us. What I did wasn't good enough for you, huh? You had to do it yourself. 48 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
We have weaved our natural hair away. Now we have to wear it. We are addicted and have no edges. Traction Alopecia has got us in a choke hold. I guess after taking a beating some of us are having a revival. Some are getting focused on the natural beauty The Most High gave us. We are starting to take care of our skin. We have begun working out. Our diets have changed. We are eating a healthier diet. We have begun embracing our natural hair textures. We have become interested in our culture. We have begun studying our history. We have learned to love ourselves and our creator. We have also learned to value each other. We have become intimidating to those who wish to oppress us. Our economic strengths have changed. We are investing in our communities. We have begun mentoring the youth. We are building strong self-esteem in the young folk’s mindset. Teaching them how special they are! We are letting them know how powerful they are when they work together for a common cause. You see when we learn to love ourselves and put The Most High first, its favor saturates our endeavors. Positive reinforcement is given from on high. The outer appearance is what the world sees but the inward thinking molds the future of many things to come. How long will it take for us to become what The Most High intended us to be? Or will we continue to keep cutting ourselves too short? Folks are counting on us to fail; it keeps them in control and us in bondage. It's time for us to be awakened. Can you imagine us knowing who we are and walking in our purpose! I pray I will see this in my lifetime! Like Obama used to say we have to become the change we want to see. Rise and Shine People! This is our day! Peace and Love Tony T. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 49
All Things Fashion
Embracing Your Natural
When was the last time you looked in the mirror and embraced your natural hair. The texture, color, length or just the overall health of your natural hair. It's easy to wake up and put on a wig, keeping your hair in braids or wearing a full weave. Yes, all of the above can be less maintenance but at some point, you need to take care of your natural hair. These protective styles if consistently worn over a long period of time can cause a serious case of Traction Alopecia. It can happen gradually or sometimes it can take one time if the hair is pulled too tight or too much glue applied around the edges or an over use of a chemical service. Yes, I cannot leave out the Creamy Crack, a chemical Relaxer. Consistent use of a relaxer can cause hair thinning. I would have to admit that I'm addicted, but for the record, I did give my hair a break from the relaxer and went natural for two years. I had to adjust to it but to be honest some days I liked it and some days I was ready for my relaxer back. I stuck it out for two years and it was truly a low maintenance hairstyle for me and I really enjoyed that. I kept it short and natural and had fun with color. It was well needed and it made me truly embrace my natural hair texture. I would say my hair texture was a 4c and I thought it was nappy and needed a relaxer to help tame it. I was wrong, and I began to embrace my natural coils. I applaud how women have taken the initiative to embrace their own textures of hair, learning how to create their own hair mask treatments, doing their research on ingredients and hair care products, and making time for a weekly or bi-weekly hair care regimen. Now, that's embracing your natural hair! Please keep up with your trims and deep conditioning treatments. It can be a challenge trying to manage your natural hair but once you learn how to take care of it you will be happy you did it. If you need to find a professional hair stylist to help you make sure to do your research and that they specialize in natural healthy hair care. 50 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
Hair loss is happening too often, we need to take the initiative to be more attentive on the health of our hair. There are too many women and young ladies dealing with Alopecia and hair loss around the edges. This can be avoided if you stop wearing certain hairstyles before it continues to get worse. It's a strong possibility that your hair cannot grow back after the hair follicle is damaged. Some women are dealing with health problems or on medication that can cause hair loss but for those who are not and continue to not take care of your hair that's a problem. Severe hair loss around the hairline should not be normal. Using a lace front for your edges is not healthy or should it be glorified like it is okay. Your hair goes through different stages during our lifetime. If you damage it now while you're young a wig will be all you have to wear as you get older. Looking like your famous celebrity or following someone that looks like they have it all together, they wear a ton of makeup, hair down to their buts, long thick eyelashes etc. should not be someone you idolize. When that person has to take all that fake stuff off, they are just like you and me, looking in that mirror to embrace their natural beauty. I tend to see a lot of natural beautiful young ladies that want to look like IG models. Take time to love you and embrace all your natural qualities. Beauty is in the eyes of the Beholder and Self Love is Priceless. Martina C. Turner Martina C. Turner Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 51
Arts and Media
BEING A POSITIVE CONTRIBUTOR TO COMMUNITY By Cortland Jones
During the latter years of my career as an educator both outside and inside the classroom, from 2005-2022, it became a passion of mine to inspire and influence youth to become positive contributors to self, home, school, and community. It was important to me to help youth see they had power and ability, now, to make use of their ‘voice,’ skills, abilities, talents to help be the change they wanted to see within their school community. That they didn’t have to wait until they became an adult in order to be impactful. I wanted them to believe and live out their understanding that their voice mattered. As this approach and practice grew, I began to see the self-esteem of youth grow. I began to see youth who were becoming confident, imaginative, and passionate about investing in themselves and their school and community believing they could actually make a difference. In preparation for writing this article I looked at the meaning of media and discovered it was inclusive of books, magazines, newspapers, television, movies, video games, music, cell phones, various kinds of software, and the internet. This broad scope and view of media helps me to consider, as I challenged my students to consider, in what ways can we become positive contributors to our community through these various means of creative self-expression and forms of communication. Media plays a tremendous role in shaping and influencing the way we think that ultimately influences our decision making and problem solving. It was the use of media, specifically television, that aided the Civil Rights Movement in having the national impact and influence it had when America was both awakened and aroused by the brutality displayed on the Edmund Pettus Bridge on that infamous day known as ‘Bloody Sunday’ on March 7, 1965.
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Media can be used to promote love, unity, hope, or incite fear, prejudice, hatred, and discord. My mentor in education, when I began my career as an educator, used to say, 'You are either part of the solution or part of the problem.’ Reflecting on what he said to me and what he meant causes me to think about the practical positive uses of social media instead of always thinking about the negative aspects. When you consider the perspective of media provided in this article you can find both good and evil influences in all aspects of media, within our culture, and communities. The real question becomes whether I am making use of it to do my part to be a light and positive contributor or promote the darkness. Social Media itself is a community. It requires energy to engage social media just as it requires energy to serve and support the physical community you live in. With the right mindset, motive, and mission it is possible to be impactful on social media as it is to be impactful within your community. One of the distinct pleasures I have had, both as an educator and as an entrepreneur, is helping youth and adults become published authors. Throughout history books and literature associated with newspapers, magazines, poetry, blogs, etc. have provided outlets and platforms for many of us to make use of the written word and the power of the narrative to contribute to community. In fact, storytelling influences our lives on a daily basis, even if we’re not the ones telling the stories. If you take a moment and really think about it, your life is immersed in some form of storytelling daily. Through television, news outlets, books you read, the internet, magazine articles, the music you listen to, along with people you come into contact with who communicate through storytelling; you are influenced in some way by a narrative every day. Vision & Purpose Community Magazine 53
There used to be a time, engaging in posting content on social media, I felt like a grain of sand trying to talk to the ocean. I have since grown past that perspective, but it can be and feel overwhelming to navigate making use of your voice to speak to the world around you. Belief your voice matters and you have something valuable to say and share with the community is what compels you and prompts you to speak up. Actions associated with love for community are as powerful, if not more, than the words we speak. It reminds me of what the Apostle Paul mentions in scripture when he writes what matters most is faith expressing itself through love. Art and media give us the opportunity to convey concepts and messaging associated with love to inspire, influence, and impact the world around us. Creative selfexpression became the methodology of what I conveyed to my students about learning to identify the unique ways and means by which they could be positive contributors to themselves and others. Life itself is full time ministry. That was the lesson learned recently from an eBook I had released. Coupling this with what the Apostle Paul encouraged his protege Timothy to do when he wrote to him to do the work of an evangelist and discharge all the duties of his ministry. I have come to learn God has blessed me with multiple abilities, gifts, skills, talents, and passions. I am a parent, professional, writer, entrepreneur, servant of Christ, nonprofit and community leader, speaker, and live studio broadcast host. Each of these aspects of me become the duties of the ministry of my life. Media offers me the opportunity and invites me to make use of it to inspire, influence, and impact others for God’s glory and their good. 54 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
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