WAJ Magazine: Spring 2022 featuring Bentleys

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Alma Davis

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CONTRIBUTORS EDITORS BEE PAPINO LACQUAN SCOTT

WRITERS AMY LOTHIAN JOSE WRIGHT, JR. AMBER LÉ JOSCELYN LEWIS

PUBLISHER DANIAL BANKS BEE PAPINO

PHOTOGRAPHERS LACQUAN SCOTT (COVER) DANIEL SHAWELL DAVID ALEXANDER

FEATURED BENTLEYS DESIREE’’ KINNEY SASHA MERCEDES JONATHAN CASILLAS SAM KAMARA

ADS BENTLEYS LACED BY LADY A DOPEST CR3ATIVES PAPINO PROPERTIES ROYAL SOUL ARS GRATIAS ARTIS THE ARENA PODCAST STUDIOVIEW BILLION BARZ CLUB

MODELS Our models can be followed on instagram @wearejerseydiamondz

Faith Rodriguez

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INSIDE Opener GIVING AWAY GAME by: Bridget Papino (pg. 9) Editorials Todays Tea With Jos by: Joscelyn Lewis (pg. 49) Love She Can Feel: No Fake Out by: Jose Wright, Jr. (pg. 51) Resting in Loves Restoration by: Jose Wright, Jr. (pg. 55)

Business Bentleys Cover Story by Amy Lothian (pg. 27) Sasha Mercedes

by Bridget Papino (pg. 35) Desiree’ Kinney

by Amy Lothian (pg. 41) Sports Jonathan Casillas by: Amber Lé (pg. 17) Sam Kamara by: Amber Lé (pg. 21)

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BY: BRIDGET PAPINO “GIVING AWAY GAME”

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Are you an entrepreneur?

If so, you know that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be successful.

But what you may not know is that there are certain things that can change your business forever. Whether it’s learning how to use social media effectively or hiring the right employees, these 15 things will help take your business to the next level.

So don’t wait any longer - start implementing them today!

1. Automate your business processes Small business owners are always looking for ways to automate their processes and save time. We’ll share some tips on how to automate your business processes using tools like Zapier and IFTTT. We’ll also show you how to set up automations for common tasks like customer feedback and lead capture. So, if you’re looking to speed up your workflow, look no further.

- Zapier Zapier is such an amazing tool to save time and boost productivity levels. The app was built to automate tasks by building ‘zaps’ and. these zaps are basically task blueprints.

You can use them to integrate apps, without needing to open these apps separately. A total life saver if you ask me.

- Airtable Airtable is a popular data organizing and team collaboration tool that helps businesses organize information, manage operations, and keep track of projects. While Airtable is not a CRM, it does have similar data organization capabilities, giving it the ability to be used as a CRM. - IFTTT IFTTT is an automation tool, similar to Zapier, that lets you easily script actions that link together devices and services easily 2. Get real-time insights into your marketing campaigns As an entrepreneur, marketing is a key component of your business. You need to be able to reach your target audience and craft campaigns that resonate with them. However, marketing can be a complex and time-consuming process. Fortunately, there are a number of marketing tools available that can give you real-time insights into your campaigns. These tools can help you track engagement levels, identify potential issues, and make adjustments on the fly. As a result, you’ll be able to fine-tune your marketing efforts for maximum impact. So if you’re looking to get the most out of your marketing campaigns, be sure to take advantage of these powerful marketing tools.

- Google Analytics - Google Keywords - Facebook and Instagram Analytics (Meta) wajmagazine.com

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3. Automate your customer relationship management Customer relationship management is a crucial part of any successful business, but it can be time-consuming and difficult to keep track of. Luckily, there are a number of marketing tools available that can automate your customer relationship management, making it easier than ever to keep your customers happy. With these tools, you can quickly and easily send marketing materials, track customer interactions, and respond to customer inquiries. As a result, you’ll be able to spend less time managing your customer relationships and more time growing your business. So what are you waiting for? Automate your customer relationship management today!

Email Marketing - Wix, Mailchimp, Convertkit -Hubspot CRM Hubspot CRM includes all the basic features you’ll need in a CRM platform, and it’s easy for beginners to use.

It’s easy to design business contact profiles and get everything organized.

4. Connect with customers through social media In today’s connected world, social media is more important than ever for businesses.

Not only is it a great way to connect with potential customers, but it’s also an incredibly powerful marketing tool. As an entrepreneur, you can use social media to build buzz around your product or service, generate leads, and drive sales. What’s more, social media is a great way to connect with other businesses in your industry. By connecting with other businesses and thought leaders on social media, you can deepen your understanding of your industry and better position yourself as a thought leader yourself. In short, social media is essential for any business that wants to succeed in today’s marketplace. So if you’re not already using social media to connect with your customers, now is the time.

- Instagram - Facebook - Twitter - Pinterest

5. Stay on top of your finances As an entrepreneur, it’s important to stay on top of your finances. There are a lot of marketing tools available to help you track your spending, income and profits. Staying organized will help you make better financial decisions and keep your business running smoothly. Make sure to set aside some time each month to review your finances and make any necessary adjustments. By doing this, you’ll be able to keep your finger on the pulse of your business and ensure that it remains healthy and profitable.

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- Wave Apps Cost: Free (Wave makes money through payment processing).

- Quickbooks Cost: $25 per month and up (50% off for first three months).

6. Streamline your human resources As an entrepreneur, you know that time is money. And when it comes to your human resources, you need to be as efficient as possible. Marketing tools can help you streamline your HR processes and save you time and money. From online job postings to applicant tracking systems, there are a number of marketing tools that can help you find the best candidates for the job. And once you’ve found the right employees, marketing tools can also help you keep track of their performance and ensure that they’re meeting your company’s standards. By streamlining your HR processes with marketing tools, you can focus on what’s important: running your business.

7. Keep your data secure You know that keeping your data secure is vital to protecting your business and your customers. That’s why it’s so important to use marketing tools that are designed to keep your data safe. By using marketing tools that encrypt your data and protect it from hackers, you can rest assured that your marketing efforts are safe from potential threats. In addition, by using marketing tools that offer data backup and recovery, you can protect your business in the event of a data loss. By taking steps to keep your data secure, you can protect your business and your customers.

8. Optimize your website for search engines One of your main goals is to get your website noticed by potential customers. One way to do this is to optimize your site for search engines. Search engine optimization, or SEO, is the process of making your site more visible to search engines like Google and Bing. This can be done by including relevant keywords in your content, structure your site in a way that makes it easy for search engines to crawl, and create fresh and interesting content that will encourage people to link to your site. By taking the time to optimize your website for search engines, you can ensure that more people will see your site and learn about your business. In addition, SEO is a cost-effective marketing tool that can help you attract new customers and grow your business 9. Get found by new customers As an entrepreneur, you are always looking for new ways to reach potential customers.

Traditional marketing tools like print ads and TV commercials can be expensive and time-consuming, and you may not be sure if they are even reaching your target audience. Luckily, there are a number of digital marketing tools that can help you get found by new customers. Search engine optimization (SEO) can help your website rank 12 wajmagazine.com

higher in search results, while social media marketing (SMM) can help you connect with potential customers on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. By using these tools, you can reach a wider audience and get found by new customers who are looking for businesses like yours.

10. Make mobile a priority In today’s business world, it’s more important than ever to have a mobile-friendly website.

More and more people are using their phones and tablets to surf the web, and if your site isn’t optimized for mobile, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. Mobile marketing is one of the most effective marketing tools available, and as an entrepreneur, you can’t afford to ignore it. There are a number of things you can do to make your site more mobile-friendly, such as using responsive design or creating a separate mobile version of your site. However you choose to do it, making mobile a priority is essential for any business that wants to succeed in today’s market.

11. Enhance your customer service Customer service is one of the most important aspects of your business. providing excellent customer service can help you to stand out from your competition, attract new customers and build loyalty among your existing customer base. There are a few simple steps you can take to enhance your customer service and give your business a boost. First, make sure you are responsive to customer inquiries and Complaints. Second, offer a wide range of customer support options, including phone, email and live chat. Third, go the extra mile to exceed customer expectations. By following these simple tips, you can take your customer service to the next level and create a lasting impression with your customers.

12. Automate your sales process Automating your sales process can be a game-changer for any business, large or small. By customer service, we mean automating customer interactions from the first point of contact to post-purchase follow-up. This could include features like live chatbots, customer selfservice portals, and even automatic order processing. For entrepreneurs, automating your sales process can save you valuable time and energy so that you can focus on other areas of your business. In addition, it can help you to scale your business more effectively by freeing up your team to work on other tasks. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that more and more businesses are choosing to automate their sales process.

13. Take advantage of cloud-based solutions Entrepreneurs are always looking for ways to improve customer service while reducing costs. Cloud-based solutions offer a great way to do both. By using cloud-based applications, businesses can take advantage of scalability, flexibility, and cost savings. For example, a customer service representative can use a cloud-based call center solution to route customer calls to the appropriate department or agent. This type of solution is typically 13 wajmagazine.com

much more affordable than traditional on-premise call center solutions. In addition, it offers entrepreneurs the ability to quickly scale their customer service operations up or down as needed. As customer service demands change, cloud-based solutions offer a great way to keep up with the changes.

14. Adopt new technologies As an entrepreneur, you can never afford to rest on your laurels. In order to stay ahead of the competition, you need to continually adopt new technologies. customer service is a great example. In the past, customer service meant having a phone line and a customer support team. Today, customer service also includes live chat, social media, and even AIpowered chatbots. By adopting new customer service technologies, you can provide a better experience for your customers and stay ahead of the curve.

15. Think outside the traditional business model Entrepreneurs are known for thinking outside the box, and that includes thinking outside the traditional business model. There are numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs to create new and innovative businesses that don’t fit the traditional mold. By thinking outside the traditional business model, entrepreneurs can tap into new markets and create unique products and services that offer real value to consumers. In today’s ever-changing business landscape, entrepreneur who are willing to think outside the box will be the ones who succeed. So if you’re feeling stuck in a rut, remember that there’s always room for creativity and innovation in business. Don’t be afraid to think outside the traditional business model and create something truly unique.

Remember, being an entrepreneur is not easy, but it doesn’t have to be so hard. Whether it’s learning how to use social media effectively or hiring the right employees, even if you don’t choose the suggested apps, finding apps or websites that can help that suite your business best can change your business forever.

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Model: Mama Rogue Instagram: @Mama_Rogue2022 Location: Manhattan, New York City “Chinatown” Shot by: David Alexander Media

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JONATHAN CASILLAS A Hero On and Off The Field BY: AMBER LÉ

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They say the tales of the Jersey Legends are real... so let us tell you a story about the one who goes by the name of Jonathan Casillas. From going undrafted to not 1 but 2 Superbowl rings, the New Brunswick native takes over the football field when he steps on the turf.

But, the question is... what happens when the lights go out and the stadium empties? That’s a Jonathan Casillas you don’t often hear about. The one who has battled doubts about his own capabilities. But, that’s also the same Jonathan Casillas who write that very draft date on his hand to remind himself to continue pushing forward.

He emphasized that it somehow became the best and worst day of his life. It was the first day he questioned whether or not he was good enough.

He then went on to sign with the New Orleans Saints and later, the New York Giants.

“I felt like everything I put into football was coming to fruition on draft day so I thought... And then for me to not get a phone call until the late 6th round and then for me to not get drafted, that was a heartbreaking type of experience but at the same time, it helped me get a chip on my shoulder... It put things into perspective like sometimes you can work as hard as you possibly can. You can do all the right things and still get the short end of the stick.”

Casillas then went on to explain how he had the option of choosing between teams, he chose to go with the New Orleans Saints. “I was able to pick between a couple of teams. That’s the thing when you don’t get drafted, if you have any suitors, you can pick... I ended up going to the Saints. History was made. We won the Superbowl XLIV that year and it’s the only Superbowl in NOLA history and I’d like to say I was a little part of that.”

There were a lot of memorable moments and every veteran has their favorite memories after being in the NFL for nearly a decade. When we asked Casillas about his favorite things, he didn’t respond with anything spectacular he’d done or with two Superbowl rings he owns; instead, it was moments when his 18 wajmagazine.com

daughter would run up to him after a defeat.

“A lot had to do with my daughter. I love my family being at the games. She remembers the Giants days, me being the captain and the hometown team. We had some tough seasons playing for the Giants and I hate losing. To have my daughter there after the games, it helped me get through that. Like I said football means a lot and winning is everything. It cures a lot, you feel fine when you win but when you lose, it’s really hard. I just remember some losses and some wins, just seeing my daughter and her saying certain things to me like ‘It’s okay daddy, I still love you so much.’”

He continued to reminisce and tell stories of how he would often spend some time with the kids who would be on the sidelines. Several times, he would walk up to the kids who retrieved the T when they kicked off and congratulated the youngsters on their performance. Jonathan Casillas explained how a player’s actions can make a child’s day by giving them some attention and praise, which leads us to the Forward Progress Camp, established eight years ago with Laurie Lazovick. Woodrow Wilson Elementary School guidance counselor Laurie Lazovick was his academic coach from freshman year through high school. Through community service initiatives, the two built a strong relationship and brought the Forward Progress Camp to life.

“We created my camp 9 years ago because I wanted to do something specific to me, something that I can put my name on and I didn’t want it to be a traditional regular football camp. Those camps are amazing, especially the ones that are run the right way. I wanted to be more than just a football camp. That was like our slogan “more than just football.’”

The mission of the camp is to provide kids with an environment that will teach them how to dream big, work hard and never give up on themselves. There are a lot of fundamental football activities incorporated with life lessons and academic resources. The camp will resume this summer on June 11th as the board of directors attempts to discover alternatives to cope with covid while simultaneously broadening the camp nationwide starting with the tri-state area.

Casillas extends talks of mentoring skills further with Forward Progress, which includes Read Across America under the canopy. The campaign to stress the value of reading for children will be a year-round effort in which he will tour 1 or 2 schools each month. He recalled how draining it was to visit 15 schools in a week and how complicated it was due to travel and scheduling.

“I had to change my whole schedule around to do it so what I’m going to do instead is to make it a year-long initiative so it’s not just Read Across America for Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Reading is important every day... We will tour 1 or 2 schools a month and hit a lot of places in Jersey and then make frequent visits back to these schools to check progress. Not only will we have these readings but we will also hold group discussions about being grateful, being respectful, and being kind to people.”

The theme of this year’s campaign was “Kindness,” and kids were pleased to be able to express what they felt they did was kind. At his daughter’s school, Casillas encourages pupils from kindergarten to eighth grade to come up and speak. He wants to continue spreading the love by offering hope, as well as helping people realize their potential.

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consider it a full-time job, Jonathan has a different perspective on it. Jonathan begins by stating that his daughter is his greatest friend, implying how much their bond has strengthened during recent years.

“She’s like my little midget friend. She looks like me, a little cuter than me, maybe has a little bit more style than I have. She def has the was. She’s my partner in crime, she’s very mature, especially for such a young girl and she’s very independent, more than I was when I was that age.”

He continues on with so much pride as he speaks about how proud he is and how parental guidance may be the key to a brighter future for the younger generation.

“She’s a special kid and I am honored to be her dad. Fatherhood means everything and being a girl dad means everything. I think our youth in general can push boundaries and break down barriers that we don’t even know exist. They’re in a different time. They’re so much more advanced technology-wise.”

After ten years, Casillas was attempting to figure out what else he was passionate about and how to improve from there as he prepared to retire. Cannabis was a popular topic among many things, especially because it looked like a hot economic bargain in 2017-18 when everyone started getting the buzz about cannabis and living in Jersey. It was always talked about. He was more immersed in thinking about how he could do it and yet remain distinct. What he really wanted to do was make it about health and well-being. Cannabis has had a bad reputation for over a century, and minorities, rape, murder, and other serious narcotics have been unfairly linked with it for so long and now it’s legalized for recreational use in the Garden State. His main goal was to continue to push the envelope forward in terms of the stigma that has plagued this community for so long. He wanted to concentrate on the athletes and develop goods that were suited only for them.

Casillas was originally working with CBD, but because New Jersey has legalized it, he’s linked up with a firm called Clade 9 who recently applied to grow the process in Plainfield, NJ. He is the Head of the Social Equity Department, which is related to Forward Progress and all of his other community work, basically linking all his endeavors into one. Jade’s Garden is Jonathan’s personal brand, which he says will take a little longer because he is a perfectionist, therefore he’ll be moving slowly with Jade’s Garden but working with Clade 9 will provide him not only leverage but also momentum and expertise to launch his own individual brand.

“The way they put their licenses up in Jersey, they put a heavy emphasis on social equity and also minorities. Me being apart of this company, I check a lot of those boxes, and of course, I’m a New Jersey resident. Just like I do with Forward Progress, I really want to get after this social equity, I really want to provide a lot of jobs and opportunities for people that look like me and come from places that I come from.”

Even after his retirement as a professional footballer, Jonathan Casillas has not taken his foot off the gas. He’s using his experience and expertise to expand on his mission of making the community better. He is a man of his word, an outstanding father figure, and a worker when it comes to building his business empire. The Jersey Legend is all in when it comes to changing the game for the youth.

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SAM KAMARA by: Gavin Saxon

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Every year, a relatively small, select group of young men gain entry into one of the four predominant sports leagues in the country. While the number varies by league, the criteria to become an athlete in one of these leagues are virtually identical across the four sports in question: you must be the best of the best and always willing to work harder than anyone else on the court or field, dedicating your entire life to your respective sport in pursuit of your goals. The select individuals who do follow this path are rewarded with a spot on the roster of one of the multi-billion dollar teams at the heart of these leagues and become a part of one of the most lucrative industries in all of the American culture, reaping the benefits of the countless hours of hard work they have put in over the years.

Recently we got the chance to sit down with one of these esteemed young men.

Let us do the honor of introducing you to Sam Kamara, an up-and-coming linebacker on the NFL’s Chicago Bears, and discuss his cultural background, his journey into the world of sports, and what it’s like being a member of the National Football League and virtually everything in-between.

Standing at 6’ 2” and 288 pounds, Kamara certainly passes the eye test of what you expect an NFL player to look like. It wasn’t on the football field where his journey began: “Crazy enough... I never really wanted to play football at first, I played baseball when I was younger“ he said, adding that he was a “little chubby kid” and, upon first attempting to play in fourth grade, didn’t immediately fall in love with football. It was a few years later in eighth grade when he discovered his love

of the sport, making a big play during a neighborhood game in his and hitting “the real good kid in our school” only to hear all the other children begin to exclaim “Sam, you should play football!”

As the saying goes, from there the rest was history; Kamara would go on to play high school football at Carteret High in NJ where he would put his versatility on full display by playing on both sides of the ball at both linebacker and fullback.

He acknowledged the advantage this gave him because “it gave [him] more film” but also admitted that he was “overlooked in high school,” and that is made especially evident by the fact that, despite his versatility, he didn’t receive a star rating as most high school recruits do.

While some athletes may be a bit deterred by the lack of recognition, Sam certainly wasn’t. Instead, he highlighted the fact that it “left a chip on [his] shoulder” that, in his mind, compelled him to “keep excelling, keep excelling, keep getting better because there was obviously something they didn’t see and I made sure they would see it no matter where I went.” The rating that scouts give you doesn’t definitively determine the number of schools nor the caliber of schools that would be willing to offer an athlete a scholarship, they certainly play a substantial role and most athletes in Kamara’s position would’ve been severely disadvantaged. Remaining steadfast in his pursuit would ultimately pay off tremendously in his junior and senior years of high school when offers began rolling in, and he would end up deciding rather quickly to attend Stony Brook University.

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schools, Pitt offered me to be a walkon, Michigan wanted me to be a walkon, but I didn’t want to give up that opportunity… for a scholarship on a hope and dream,” Sam said when asked about his recruiting experience as a high school athlete, adding that Stony Brook “felt like home” almost immediately. “It wasn’t too far from my home but it was far enough that I could grow and be my own person… going through those college struggles, and as soon as I got there every openarmed welcomed me. The players, when I met them, when I engaged with everybody it was like I knew them for years and I only knew them for like a couple hours… I just felt like that’s where I had to be.” It looks like that feeling he had was right because his impact was felt virtually as soon as he stepped on the field his freshman year when he appeared in eight games and recorded nine tackles. This would only be the beginning of his stint at Stony Brook where he would go on to play for the next five years, receiving an NCAA exemption to play a fifth year following a season-ending shoulder injury the year prior, and would be named one of the team’s three defensive captains before his senior year. When asked about the differences between high school and college football, Sam’s sentiments echoed those of many other players who have also successfully made the transition: “Its just a little bit faster… everybody was a little bit quick, I was fast in high school but in college, everyone’s faster. I just had to pick up to the speed… and for the kids, any of the kids making that transition, be ready to work.” Sam credits his heritage, he is incredibly proud of his African descent and makes it evident on his Instagram account, for the remarkable work ethic

he has garnered thus far in his life and thanks to his mother for instilling it in him: “Discipline is all we know in here…anyone with a foreign parent understands. Ain’t no games in that household…you’re gonna try to be the best at what you do.”

In hindsight, while the end of Sam’s college career was a little typical, he doesn’t regret anything that happened.

“At first I thought it would impact me tremendously, but then, in the grand scheme of it, it wasn’t really bad,” Sam said when asked about the impact his shoulder injury and COVID-19 had upon his transition to the NFL “Rather than me doing combine drills, like running 40’s and doing drills, they got to actually see my how I really play. It’s like they’re watching very fresh film… I would take that spring season over the drills and everything if I’m being honest with you.” Kamara clearly wasn’t going to let a small hurdle get in the way of his goals, and even when he went undrafted, he retained that aforementioned chip on his shoulder as well as a positive attitude that things would ultimately work out in the end. “I felt like once I got a team to look at me, all I needed was a foot in the door… even when I got hurt I just kept working, kept working, kept working, My strength coach was like ‘bro, you’re in a sling, you shouldn’t even be in the weight room’ but I’m like ‘I gotta keep working, if one arm is down I gotta keep the other one strong.’’’

He would do exactly that in Chicago when the Bears elected to bring him in for a workout following the draft, with the Miami Dolphins also showing an interest in him before he ultimately signed in Chicago, and signed Sam to his first official NFL contract.

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Similar to Stony Brook, Kamara would appear in eight games his first season with the Chicago Bears during his freshman season and record a total of ten tackles.

While he is still trying to carve out a lane for himself as his career progresses, He has achieved his goal of making it to the NFL and is on the path to greatness one game at a time. It is difficult to imagine someone with as positive a mindset as Sam’s not reaching his goals, and that is made abundantly evident by the success Sam has seen at every level of his career thus far. The sky’s the limit for Sam Kamara and we here at WAJ Sports are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to speak with him and equally as eager to see what is yet to come in his budding career as an athlete in the NFL.

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BY: AMY LOTHIAN

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Where Soul Food & Sea Food Meet

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“Come chill with us!”, says Latisha Williams, co-owner of Bentley’s Restaurant & Lounge in Newark, New Jersey. Her statement reflects the comfortable, family-like, and fun atmosphere that owners Tish, Barry, & Johnnie have curated at the eatery and which it has become known for. Opened in early 2020, the team at Bentley’s has managed to survive and thrive through the pandemic despite a tumultuous time for the world and especially the restaurant industry.

Seated in the heart of downtown Newark, Bentley’s has become an attraction for locals who have embraced the restaurant’s appetizing eats, friendly vibe and lively entertainment options. The restaurant’s success, says its owners, can be attributed to a mixture of elements working together. Mainly its location, support from the community, and of course, Bentley’s menu of diverse and delicious food. Bentley’s menu has something for everyone, like co-owner Barry’s personal favorite, Bentley’s Southern Fried Honey Wings.

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Cover

Their other popular menu items include takes on classic staples like burgers, wings, and mac & cheese as well as newly forged flavors turned crowd favorites like Rasta Pasta, Bentley’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, and their Braised Short Rib Empanadas. Vegan options are also available at Bentley’s including a variety of hearty salads, black eyed pea hummus, cauliflower wings, and rice bowls made with fresh, whole ingredients. Bentley’s vibe is unmatched any day of the week, but the soul food spot comes alive on the weekends starting with a live set by DJ Banks on Friday nights, BYOB friendly karaoke on Saturdays, and a midday brunch menu and a football menu on Sundays with hookah available every day of the week.

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Bentley’s is also proud to be able to help residents of the community literally put food on their table by employing a majority of their staff from the surrounding Newark community. The owners also welcome partnerships with like-minded community wellness organizations by providing a space for hosting events and meetings. For Johnnie, opening Bentley’s in the city of Newark represents an opportunity to give back to home and the city where it all started”. The current Bentley’s location is the second restaurant venture for the entrepreneurs, but certainly not the last. Now a year and a half since its grand opening, the ambitious owners hope to make plans for a second location in the near future. They hope that Bentley’s near the corner of Clay and Broad Street, will continue to be embraced by the community as they continue to serve residents of New Jersey and beyond.

latest updates, events, and menu changes and specials upcoming at the newest hotspot in town.

Next time you’re in Newark, stop

by Bentleys Seafood & Soulfood restaurant to see for yourself why you can’t just go there once. Tell them WeAreJersey sent you!

Visit https://www.bentleysnj.com for Bentley’s full food, drink, and hookah menus as well as details on Bentley’s location and hours of operation. Follow Bentley’s on instagram @bentleysnj to see all the

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Alma Davis

Royal Soul 34 wajmagazine.com

SASHA MERCEDES

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Feature

Sasha Mercedes is more than a woman on a mission. In a world full of people who seem content to do the bare minimum, Sasha Mercedes is an anomaly. As a single mother, licensed professional counselor, author, radio host, professor, and inspirational speaker with Alabama roots and a strong passion for helping others. This woman is driven by her passions and refuses to let anyone stand in her way.

Her story is one of determination and resilience, and it is a testament to the power of hard work and never giving up. No matter what life throws her way, Sasha remains focused on her mission: making a difference in the world.

Sasha’s work as an author of self-help books for women struggling to make their way in the world has helped countless women find their strength and power. Sasha is also a professional counselor who works closely alongside clients from all walks of life through tough times such as personal or family counseling sessions. Sasha has helped people navigate through mental health issues like depression, workplace problems, and relationship difficulties.

By sharing her journey and helping others to see the light at the end of the tunnel, Sasha is truly curating a safe space. These stepping stones led Sasha Mercedes to create her non-profit organization dedicated to the cause called Sister’s 2nd Chance.

In Sasha Mercedes’ book “It’s A Losing Battle, But I Won”, she shares her personal experiences to help inspire others in addition to reminding them they don’t have to face the same experiences alone. By speaking openly about her own story and offering opportunities for counseling she aims to support under-served communities with her professional expertise and sound advice.

As a counselor, she’s been able to open her private practice, Inside and Out Consulting, which provides mental health counseling that focuses on trauma and relationships within families and the LGBT community. Her other non-profit organization, Sisters 2nd Chance, offers support for women who may be in difficult situations by providing them with strong sisterhoods through comradeship or confidentiality depending upon what they need most at the moment; this way these ladies can overcome their obstacles together— perfecting an environment filled only positive influences!

Fast forward to 2022, Sasha Mercedes is not letting up on her mission. In the upcoming months, she will be hosting women empowerment brunches to honor women with a motivational speaker and free meals through her non-profit organization.

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to her non-profit organization called Brother’s Deserve a Chance to support men’s mental health. Sasha Mercedes is also working on the second edition of her book “It’s A Losing Battle, But I Won”.

Sasha Mercedes is not only a career-minded businesswoman and educated entrepreneur, she is a compassionate one who cares about her clients and her community. With plans of opening a physical location for my mental health private practice in Buckhead Atlanta and continuing to add more valuable guests to her radio show called Klymax Sessions at Power 108.9. Learn more about Sasha Mercedes, LLC., Inside and Out Consulting, Sister’s 2nd Chance and for resources and more visit www.sashamercedes.org.

Websites: www.sashamercedes.org www.insideandoutconsulting.org www.sisters2ndchance.org Social Media: Instagram: www.instagram.com/sashamercedesss Facebook: www.facebook.com/sashamercedess Twitter: www.twitter.com/sashamercedess LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha johnson-ms-lpcncc-929658101/

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Models: @lovealwayzke @funsize_rina @krissinead @renee.dachae @extraterrestreal @surfer.zo @melanein.__ @davia.antonia @ritaa_ babyy @bb.faith @bb.faith @melijahcyrielle @kristintatiana Makeup: @muahollywood @thebeatdown_ny @tatydoesmakeup Video: @dammdens Photographer @shotbynachure

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DESIREE’

KINNEY How One Businesswoman Is Helping to Create The Next Wave of Multi-preneurs BY: AMY LOTHIAN

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Multi-preneur, Desiree’ Tulsidai Kinney is giving new meaning to the phrase “Jack of all trades”. In business and in life, Kinney leads every undertaking she pursues with optimism and has dedicated her career and business to inspiring and elevating others. Born in New Brunswick, NJ and currently residing in Edison, NJ, Desiree’ Tulsidai Kinney, a self-dubbed ‘Woman of Wall Street”, is a finance professional and the CEO and Founder of The Business Matchmaker.

As The Business Matchmaker, Kinney has devoted herself to being a resource to entrepreneurs throughout every step of their business journey, from supporting small business growth, personal development, mentorship, and networking. In addition to being a successful, educated woman of color in a cut-throat, exclusive industry, Kinney also spreads her knowledge and light through her work as an empowerment speaker, career coach, brand ambassador, and media/TV personality.

She balances the rigidity of the finance world with her creative side as a musical artist. Formerly a member of an award-winning group, Kinney says making music these days is a form of therapy for herself and others and she hopes it will uplift others in their lives.

Kinney is a graduate of Rutgers University and has over 10 years of experience working in Finance and wealth management. She currently works in New York City as a wealth management specialist for one of the most prominent Fortune 500 corporations in the world. Through her education and passion for entrepreneurship as The Business Matchmaker, Kinney says her ultimate goal is to “make people feel powerful in their skin and unleash the story they want to tell.” As a public speaker, her specialty speaking topics are: She Means Business, Are You Linked In or Linked Out?, Personal Branding for Business Owners or Executives, and the Art of Networking. She is also a panelist for Brooklyn Savvy TV and is the former co-host of the Discover a New Future Show. Kinney is also currently a Host of the Work Your Money podcast and her segment is entitled “Women and Men In Business Who Rock”.

What has inspired and motivated you to want to help others in the way that you do?

Life experiences, most importantly loss and trauma. I am open about my PTSD and being an “overcomer”. I am also a proud empath. My work is inspired by and dedicated to those that had a special impact on my life. At the same time, I have not let my experiences define me. I am stronger and wiser because of it.

What is the message you would like others to take away from their experiences with you?

I want people to feel powerful in their skin and to unleash the story they want to tell. As a Business Matchmaker, I match clients with the tools [they need] for success. Everyone’s journey is different, and I dive deep into how

I can elevate and empower them. I will proudly showcase their success stories to uplift others [and assist] in their businesses’ trajectory. Teaser Alert: I may be launching a “Master” Series via my TV Show or Podcast to show how successful entrepreneurs have mastered their craft.

What is your personal outlook on creativity?

“Creativity takes courage” – Henri Matisse. We need to get comfortable being uncomfortable. This is when the real creativity begins.

What has been your greatest accomplishment to date?

My mentees – One was born in Nepal and the other in Brazil. Helping them build their

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confidence and realize their potential [has been] life-changing. Guiding them to land their first jobs in corporate America and still pursue their passions simultaneously – it felt like ALL of the work I do is for a purpose. I am also proud to support women filling the spaces that are still lacking in representation.

When I landed on the cover of Investment News, I knew – CHANGE IS COMING and we aren’t stopping anytime soon. As Michelle Obama said, “There is no limit to what we, as women, can achieve.”

What sets you apart from others?

My smile is my logo and my personality is my business card (Jay Danzie). I want to make an impact on everyone I meet and that is my trademark. I also feed off of good energy from the universe. There is a quote that says to “be the type of energy that no matter where you go, you always add value to the spaces & lives around you.” My vision is for my work to inspire others to reach for greatness and to spread positivity and light into the world around them.

Are you working on any exciting projects at the moment?

The Business Matchmaker TV Show which is a mix between Shark Tank meets Dr. Phil meets Oprah. It’s about business consulting meets a therapy/listening session.

I don’t want to tell my clients what they need, I want to guide them to the solution.

It’s based on the 7 Business Rules for Success. I was able to feature my amazing long-time client Princess Faraj, The Chief Engineer of the Luxury Clothing Brand ModMara, and CEO of Faraj Couture Creative Studio; She was my biggest inspiration to become an Entrepreneur.

What advice would you give to others?

What are you most looking forward to creating in the near future?

I would like to build The Business Matchmaker LLC into a reputable platform for entrepreneurs and business owners.

I plan to conduct a series of personal development workshops and matchmaking sessions. I want to inspire confidence and hope in people’s businesses.

I will say it through a quote “Believe in your infinite potential. Your only limitations are those you set upon yourself.” – Roy Bennett.

You can be your biggest enemy or your biggest fan: Which one will you choose?

Desiree’ Toulsidai Kinney wears many hats and she juggles all her ventures gracefully and with a smile. Steadfast on her mission of educating and inspiring others, she intends to continue to serve as a resource and inspiration

to everyone who crosses her path as she believes every interaction is intended to be a part of her trajectory. As she continues to write and tell her story, keep an eye out for Kinney’s plans for The Business Matchmaker, and her new outlook and approach to creativity through music, media, and beyond. Check out more from Desiree’ Touslidai Kinney at www.thebusinessmatchmaker.org and as she quotes, “There are no limits to what you can accomplish, except the limits you place on your own thinking” -(Donna Thompson). wajmagazine.com

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Model: Gamaliel Arroyo @selfie.king._

Stylist: Michelle Saunders @styledbymulani Designer: Beloved by Christopher Mikhail Email: chris@belovedfromnowon.com @christophermikhail @belovedfromnowon Photographer: Jim Sewastynowicz @sewasty

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s y a Tod

a e T

s o J

by: Joscelyn Lewis

5 HERBS TO HELP RELIEVE ALLERGIES The pollen has arrived and it’s already making its mark. All around me I see people suffering from sneezing, rubbing their itchy eyes, coughing, etc. No allergies don’t affect everyone but even if you don’t suffer from them you know someone who does. Life is about stopping and smelling the roses but how can you when they’re sending your immune system into a frenzy?

Hay fever, simply put, your body has an allergic reaction to pollen. To your body pollen is a foreign invader. If you are allergic to pollen, or anything else for that matter, your immune system kicks into overdrive telling your body to release histamines. Histamine is a chemical the body created to defend the body against allergens. The histamine attaches to the pollen which causes your symptoms. Even though the coughing and sneezing may be annoying, it is our bodies way of ridding themselves of the foreign entity.

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Here are 5 antihistamine herbs that will help reduce histamine production which will decrease or even possibly rid you of your symptoms. All 5 herbs should be made into tea and drank 1-3 times a day.

1. Fennel This herb is high in Quercetin, which is an antioxidant and a powerful antihistamine.

Fennel not only helps reduce inflammation due to the allergic reaction but also removes phlegm from the lungs. If your allergies have you congested, this is the herb for you.

2. Ginger I mean is there anything ginger can’t do? This herb is great for those with sensitive skin. If pollen is causing skin irritation or causing hives, ginger tea will be your best friend. In addition to a tea, adding a piece of ginger root to your hot bath can bring major relief.

3. Thyme Yes, this popular herb is a natural antihistamine.

It is great at helping your body purge out infections. Either as a tea or an essential oil give thyme a try. Rub a few drops of the essential oil on the body part causing irritation.

4. Peppermint Since your immune system sends histamines out to the body part causing irritation, if it goes to your nose, it will contract the nose muscles not allowing pollen to enter. A cup of peppermint tea will help to relax your nasal passageways and release that phlegm causing your congestion.

5. Moringa This herb not only contains Quercetin but also contains Vitamin C making it a powerhouse remedy for allergies. Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine. If you suffer from asthma, and allergies trigger it, this is the herb for you to add to your daily diet.

It will help reduce your allergy systems and calm your asthma.

Remember, true healing requires consistency. Drink your teas at least 1-3 times daily!

As always, I pray for your healing. I send gratitude out to the universe in advance for these herbs getting to the root of our ailments and making room for new, fruitful health.

With Love, Joscelyn Lewis Founder of Flow Teas, For Lovers Of Wisdom For inquiries on your herbal journey, I can be reached at: FORLOVERSOFWISDOM@GMAIL.COM 50 wajmagazine.com

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“Gods & Goddesses” Models: Faith Rodriguez, Charles Hill Creative Direction: Faith Rodriguez Photographer: Daniel Shawell

Do you know what’s one of the most pathetic, romantic experiences in the human realm? The answer to that lies in not just what you feel, but it lies in the consistent results felt after the butterflies have left from the act. Many women have to look out for this reality, and a number of men do too. Selfishness has rearranged the ideals set about in courtships for many people, and the once flowery dating scenes have become soap opera reruns that no one wants to partake in.

Mary J. Blige sang “Real Love” with such passion, purpose, and intention that the world couldn’t help but be consumed by the lyrics to that song. “...someone to set my heart free, real love. (Insert adlib here) I’m searchin’ for a real love.” What does real love look like, and how do people recognize it? What is the distinct difference between a love that’s real, and a love that’s been bathed in a pretender’s bath water? If I may be bold about it, fake love can be unmasked while being observant of someone’s normal routine. IT’S IN THE LITTLE DETAILS! 52 wajmagazine.com

Ladies, there are some things to take note of when you see a man’s routine.

1. Does he confide in you? If he isn’t coming to you to vent and dilute his stress, then either he isn’t vulnerable enough to and for you (which is a red flag essentially to many), and he could be venting to someone else. That someone else may be his boy(s) or worse! The individual getting his vulnerable state could be another woman. Emotional infidelity isn’t just dangerous, but some women consider it more painful than the physical act of cheating.

2. Is he considerate of you, regularly? Let’s say he knows he’s hungry and typically knows you both are tired; does he come home expecting a meal already prepared for him?

If he chooses to go to a restaurant (regardless if a fast food one or not), does he come home prepared to devour whatever he bought? Did he bring you anything? At the very least, did he bring you something you’d want, although he knows he wants food you both have at home? Let’s maintain the topic of consideration here..there’s more to unpack along these neglected lines. When he vents to you (if he does), does he just get up and say thank you before leaving, or does he inquire about your day? If he does inquire about what you’ve gone through, does he just hear you, or does he listen to respond appropriately? How important is your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing to him? If he’s truly considerate and it’s a regular and consistent pattern (or habit), then your answer is right before your eyes.

Is he protective of you and all that you are? This part is what I have seen missing in many romantic scenarios. Fake love can go but so far! It doesn’t have the capability to do much except sweet talk, do what must be done to woo you and make you smile, and then make you feel like you’re on a tropical island sipping mojitos, while you’re wajmagazine.com

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cheesin’ and laying in a hammock. It can do quite a bit for flare, but what about the days when your darkest hours are met? Can he stand beside you and understand why you respond to criticism the way you do? Can he go with you to your shows, speeches, and major events and not get bored while watching you be your best self on stage? Can he refrain from comparing you to himself, and lift you as high as he lifts himself without intimidation? Can he breathe life into you when you’re both at your lowest points?

Fake love IS NOT a love that is formidable enough to “stand the rain.” Real…authentic, and undeniable love alone can bear the brunt of any weapon formed against it! A love that is real is one that is truly intimate with you. A being who really does love you knows you, and also moves to use that knowledge to consistently see to your evolution, wellbeing, and fulfillment. Fake love only has one ending and outcome…it seeks to benefit one’s self alone.

Fellas, my guys, WATCH YOURSELVES TOO Some women have a gift for taking everything you have mentally, emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc, and leaving you DRAINED! You didn’t think you were the exception, did you?

Human expressions of love don’t come packaged exactly the same, but I’ve come to the conclusion that truly transparent acts do not fail to be noticed. There’s a depth felt when love is authentic. Some people can truly feel you out! Patterns, habits, specific words, and actions will allow you to differentiate between the love that nurtures your being, and the love that might as well be the equivalent of an STI. The embodiment of love is not just in the words y’all, but the actions to affirm the “I love you” statements that leave one’s lips on a daily basis.

A) I love you + consistent, visible action to prove it = real love B) I love you - consistent, visible action to prove it = deceit Oh and in case you do not remember, that real love is also very much rooted in consistency! Someone can most definitely love you for a time period, and then fall out of love with you too. However, there are reasons for that which must be addressed within the relationship, since every relationship has its differences and unique circumstances.

I find that REAL love has healing properties that the fake version cannot contend with. I mean, I have literally rubbed a woman’s belly during her cycle and stopped the cramping. I couldn’t begin to tell you how madly in love I was with that woman. What we felt with one another was GALACTIC in authenticity!

If you’re like me and searching for a love that proves to be real, know that you will find it. Remember though, you must keep your eyes open. Listen to your heart and mind, and consult your spiritual deity consistently (if that is your pathway to life). You will be able to tell the difference, without question!

I am rooting for success in your romantic journey! a gentleman named, Mr. Jose Wright, Jr.

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Resting IN

love’s RESTORATION

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Culture

The space in one’s mind that seeks the beauty of love doesn’t see the desired target as an option, but as a priority.

When the door to a person’s heart has been unlocked and opened, and love is tapped into, there are specific mandates that a human being’s mind leans toward. Love truly activated in a man’s/woman’s being unleashes capabilities unseen to most eyes.

It’s undeniable the possibilities one can experience when it is properly nourished, and the magic of the depth it can unravel is nearly unspeakable!

That being said, love is untainted!

Love is kind! Love is…much more than most movies and tv shows can capture.

One power factor of love that will be focused on is…healing! *Writer takes a deep breath* One of the most deceptive implications about love that my ears have heard is, “love is pain!” To that, I say, “in what world?”

I know that society likes to make things backwards often enough; “she’s bad” means that she looks good, and “hopeless romantic” is said by people who actually hope to find romance (words have power, so I suggest that be changed that immediately). That being understood, I genuinely hope that people realize the falsehood that carries this statement. Love cannot be pain! Hate can be, but love does the opposite of what hate does. That said, I must be clear…

YOU CAN FEEL PAIN if you know that you love someone and desire to commit to them, but comprehend the fact that you shouldn’t for reasons of self-improvement needs, or other needs currently omitted. Love still won’t bring pain, but circumstances surrounding love most certainly can! wajmagazine.com

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A love that is authentic is a love that captivates, benefits both you and your partner, and typically can be seen by everyone who observes the two of you.

Fake love is incapable of performing such acts of nobility, genuineness, compassion, and maintaining consistency in all of those things. The notion that love acts contrary to its intended nature isn’t just bogus, but what it evaded is the purest of intentions behind its true nature. Love is a healer! How do I know this? I’ll give you an example of a personal experience.

Once upon a time, several very hasty moons ago in my basement, I was in a contradictingly beautiful relationship.

There were challenges that gave me concern; more issues than one would like to have, and yet, the relationship also was quite beautiful indeed. That woman knew how to provide heaven when she wanted to. Anyway, she was on her monthly cycle

this one particular afternoon, and in much pain. Surely, most women dealing with “mother nature’s vengeance” strongly dislike being touched. Well, ladies & fellas, I went against the grain (and lived to write about the moment… ha).! I prayed to the Creator to bless my hands with the power to heal, and against her word, began to massage her belly. At first, she definitely displayed resistance, seeing as the pain was essentially unbearable. However, after a few moments of intentional massaging, her cramping stopped. The look of total SHOCK she had on her face was almost more gratifying than knowing the pain was gone, and I tell you this, she still can’t believe that happened.

True love can heal a person’s innermost concerns, and also provide clarity for those unwavering battles that are fought daily. Many times in our past experiences, we shake off all of the good things that happened to us, because the traumatic experiences are lingering and beyond consistent in their effects. Ask yourself some questions for the sake of reminiscing and certainty: Have you ever been in a relationship that made you feel light on your feet, whenever you stood next to someone you loved?

1. Have you ever been in a relationship that made you feel light on your feet, whenever you stood next to someone you loved?

2. Has anyone you were romantically involved with cuddled you before, and it felt like all of your stress simply melted away in an instant?

3. Once upon a time, do you remember when you’d get that text from a man/woman, and your cheekbones lifted up too high so that your cheeks started hurting?

4. Have you ever loved someone to the extent that looking at a photo of them holds power, and you take that long, deep breath (and smile) when you see their face?

THAT…IS…HEALING LOVE! 57 wajmagazine.com

As we take time to reflect on past romances that likely gave us headaches when recalling certain people’s names, try not to rekindle the desire to slap anyone in the face. Remember the days when the moments happened that actually made you smile, and allowed you to see joy glistening in your partner’s eyes. Do you realize that those moments of joy may have healed them as much as they healed you? Can you recall the concerns you may have gotten healing from, while involved with the person who genuinely loved you? Do you realize that you can feel it even before they get close if it’s powerful enough?

HEALING LOVE comes with some tells that I may have already mentioned, and maybe some I haven’t quite yet. Ladies, keep your eyes open for this one! Those toxic brothers that claim they want to restore you, are telling you lies that can be seen when you watch bad movie reruns. Healing love is…

Consistent: You don’t have to question if your partner cares about you. He (or she) tells you reasonably often that you’re important to them, and they remind you of how much wonder you do for them. Most times, your presence alone makes them want to be of service to you. They value you! Some men and women have romantic pasts that have been savagely strangled with inconsistency, Intentional: When a person loves you to the point of healing you, their expressions have vigor, focus, interest, and determination! They have a task or mission locked into their minds, and they will see the mission completed in your regard. You have purpose and meaning to them, and so they will not love you just because it feels like they’re handling the role as someone should. They want to do it, and they desire to do so urgently & intently.

Patient: For someone to love you in full authenticity, and provide you with a love that heals, they must also have patience. A human being with patience allows their partner time to assimilate to their way of life, their way of thinking, and their routine. Being patient with someone can allow them to trust you, and seeing as gaining trust removes walls of broken pieces fortified to protect one’s heart, you actually heal the spaces that need repair. The spots with the scars are refurbished, polished, and gently tended to. Patience heals a lack of trust.

Do you possess a love that can heal one’s heart? Is that organ in your chest powerful to heal the heart of another being? Do you comprehend the complexity behind love as well as the simplicity, or are you yet unsure of how love can heal? What does healing love look like to you? Maybe your definition differs from what I’ve observed and experienced. Either way…enter only into spaces where love heals.

If you enter into a commitment where love is proclaimed, but toxicity, malice, and anguish are the norm when you and your partner collide, then be quite clear and specific. What is being provided with pain is nothing but chaos! Love has no slot in there. ~ I wish for you, dear reader, nothing but love….

A love that brings joy, and eagerly does heal…

True love…

Your soon-to-be favorite love writer, Mr. Wright

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