Be Happy

Happy Hump Day!!! This is a popular greeting made famous by a commercial with a "talking camel". It's surprising easy to say yet so hard to live. Often, people drudge their way through life working at jobs that aren't fulfilling. They travel to and fro with wreckless abandon, shop at big box stores, and live beyond their means.  Their children attend failing schools in congested areas which adds to family dysfunction.  Yet, our inalienable rights are to life, liberty, and the pursuit of....... happiness.  I will admit that I have been to several seminars which promise to unleash your true potential and unlock success. The bottom line always comes back to the same concept: do what you love to do and riches will come to you.  People spend millions on potions, potables, prescriptions, and physicians seeking some semblance of having a feel good moment.  Well I have some news for you. It is possible to be happy right where you are!!! On July 9, 2017, Elder Isaac Hayes preached a sermon at the Apostolic Church of God on this very topic. (Warning: I'm not as eloquent as he, so I will not attempt to reiterate everything said)  His message was that even when going through trying times, our attitude of faith can carry us through. We are able to receive a blessing in the midst of trouble.  And eventually the joy we seek will come to us in ways we didn't expect or contemplate.  Do you know how to change your mindset to see the positive? Pray.  God gives knowledge freely if we ask.  I have chosen to look at things "half full", and envision the overflow of abundance to come.  That's why I created this blog. My Purple Life Blog is filled with posts to uplift and compel you to live your best life; like the Kings and queens we were created to be. Are you willing to improve your life? Are you depending on external things for happiness? How is that working for you? Join me on this journey by posting your comments below.  Thanks for sharing and stopping by. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Once Bitten, Twice Shy

Have you ever been channel surfing when something caught your attention?  Usually it's some novel idea or fleeting fancy.  This story grabbed me and made me take notice.  It was an entertainment reporting show, and they did a segment on a Celebrity Biting Masseuse.  This woman is paid by some of the biggest stars across genres to use her mouth and teeth to bite people on their backs, bottoms, etc as a form of massage.  This doctor rattled off names that sounded like the who's who of urban culture.  Her stories were wildly funny and gripping.  People often joke about the things rich people spend money on.  I was tempted to throw this story into that category.  Yet it made me more inquisitive.  One of the reporters underwent the biting therapy.  Although she claims it did something for her, her facial expressions said otherwise.  How many times have you experienced something painful that was supposed to help you?  I remember my mom allowing me to touch a hot stove to feel the pain of burning so I'd never do it again.  I became more cautious as I grew into my curiosity.  I wanted to evaluate all options before moving forward.  I don't like feeling pain or choosing the option that delivers pain.  So I spent my early years being safe.....secure in my world.  God had bigger plans, but He waited for me to build the maturity to seek Him fully and come under His plan.  He used the pains and trials of life that I went through to build me up into the vessel He could use for His divine purpose.  What was your biggest pain?  Did it work out for your good? Do you feel you learned from it?  Have you made that mistake again?   These are the types of questions that I work with in love, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  The answer always boils down to the purple life that I live.  No regrets.  No woulda, coulda, shoulda.  No complaints.  The journey is far from over and more precious with every step.  Join me as we travel this road together.  Post a comment and track your progress.  Thanks for sharing and stopping by.  Take Care and God Bless!!!

Sitting on top of the world

What's your inspiration?  What motivates you?  I love nature and being outdoors.  Living in urban areas forces you to find that soft, quiet place to gather your thoughts and work on your dreams.  I had the distinct pleasure of dining at POV,  the rooftop restaurant at the W Hotel in Washington DC.  I was very impressed by the hospitality of the staff, accommodations, and the timeless architecture.   As I sat in their open air dining room, I looked across the magnificent views of the city. Stories above ground, you could look into the "wild blue yonder".   No clouds in the sky, and beautiful horizons at every vantage point.  In the distance was the Washington Monument.  Across the street was the Department of Treasury.  The White House peaked out from the expertly trimmed landscape.  Literally, the unofficial capital of Western civilization is in front of my eyes.  I can see where the wealth of this nation is truly stored and negotiated for.   Take a moment to imagine the conversations that take place on these streets and in these structures.  It was so exhilarating to create my own narrative for the explosion of activities surrounding me.  For that moment, I was sitting on top of the world.  I took deep, deliberate breaths of clean and clear air.  I felt the gentle breeze across my skin as it brought cooling refreshment on a humid 90 degree day.  I savored each morsel of food as it nourished my body, mind, and soul.  I sat deep in the chair that supported and comforted me while elevating my dining experience.  Faith and reality crossed paths in such a wonderfully marvelous way that I didn't want to leave.  I had a glorious good time, and I can't wait to go back.  I interacted with other hotel guests as we all remarked about the day's events.  Our society is so politically charged right now, it just felt good to pull back and reflect upon the way things should be.  How often do you take the time to enjoy your environment?  Do you work so hard at life that you are not living?  I just read a heartbreaking story about a man who literally worked himself to death.  He was such a joy and light to others that he often gave his energy to make people smile.  To die so young with so much to live for is usually the plot line for a Hollywood production.  Sadly, this is becoming more common in our daily lives.  We toil and travail through life only to shuffle this mortal coil without goal, meaning, or paths to success.  I invite you to add some purple into your life.  Get in balance.  Gain your focus.  Set those benchmarks and achieve them!!!  I am taking my life back and putting it under God's control.  He guides me.  He directs my paths.  He has never failed even when I stumbled and fell.  I am reaping the reward of renewed faith, reignited passion, and inspired action.  Join me in this journey.  When have you felt on top of your world?  What do you do to maintain that feeling?  Post your comments and track your progress.  I promise you, it will be a life affirming experience.  Thank you for sharing and stopping by.  Take Care and God Bless!!!

My Purple Life Blog: My Monumental Weekend in DC

My Purple Life Blog: My Monumental Weekend in DC: Celebrating the 4th of July holiday in the nation's capital was very exciting.  People work all week, but now its time for weekend fest...

My Monumental Weekend in DC

Celebrating the 4th of July holiday in the nation's capital was very exciting.  People work all week, but now its time for weekend festivities.  Friday's Happy Hour at Co Co Sala was to die for.  Chocolate Martinis. Chocolate Mojitos. Chocolate Prosecco. Chocolate covered strawberries...in your drink.  Delectable and delicious.  We had the Lamb Meatballs, Parmesan Truffle Oil Fries, and Bacon Mac & Cheese (with chocolate covered bacon).  The crowd was lively, and the bartender was cute.  He made the evening light and welcomed us properly.  We met up with friends at the outdoor film showing of  "Coming to America" at the Union Market.  The crowd was very friendly and family oriented.  Many people came to sit at our table to finish their meals.  It felt like fellowshipping at church in a breezy al fresca setting.  The crowd took over the entire parking lot, as blankets and chairs were laid out to enjoy this event.  Everyone has their favorite parts, and to hear the raucous laughter revived my faith in humanity.  Saturday was a mix of emotion.  We started at Busboys and Poets.  I FOUND MY TRIBE!!!  The ambiance of bookstore, performance stage, coffee shop, and restaurant blended into a cornucopia of cultures blending together.  The most delicious sweet potato pancakes with turkey sausage I've ever had.  I must admit, the cauliflower frittata my sister had looked so good, I nearly crossed over and took a bite.  This set the foundation for going to the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture.  We were there for five hours, and still didn't see everything.  With so much to absorb, I wrote yesterday's blog about the entire experience.  The Emmitt Till exhibit had lines wrapped around it.  The only area where no photography was allowed, but I will never forget the images I saw on this day.  We rounded out the evening by going to the Park at 14th and networking with the weekend crowd.  Apparently, these events go on during the week, but this vibrant, hip, youthful crowd kept the party going for hours.  Food was reminiscent of a summer barbeque, and the drinks were freely flowing.  Lots of contacts made and connections for later.  Nightcaps at Bar Code sealed the deal for a divine diva time.  Sunday found me streaming church services from Chicago.  Dr. Brazier was away, so the Assistant Pastors were in charge.  We cranked the volume for the whole hotel could hear the Good News.  Elder Issac Hayes preached from James and my subtitle is "Be Happy".  You could feel the Spirit coming through the screen and filling our room.  This prepped us for our tour of the Monuments.  I must admit, each one was a work of architecture, history, and symbolism.  However, the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial touched my soul.  This man gave his life for the equality of all US citizens, something that we were robbed of for centuries. To see his majestic image chiseled into stone was a tradesman's masterpiece.  The surrounding park had his most famous quotes etched in marble, which will last for generations to come.  We reflected over this weekend's activities over a sumptuous meal at Farmers and Distillers. Homemade hibiscus soda and passion fruit soda complimented the fresh foods served in their wonderfully adorned facility.  DC has so much in store for the visitor.  Many nations came together to sample what this city has to offer.  All found what they were looking for.  What are you looking for?  What will make you happy?  How are you living your purple life?  Keep coming on this journey with me to uncover all that this world has to offer.  Thanks for sharing and stopping by.  Take Care and God Bless!!!

Museum of African American History and Culture

I have been anticipating this day for several months now.  Many people came to DC for the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in September 2016.  However, the stars seemed to align and allow both my sister and I to tour the hottest museum in the country.  Walking up to the four story facade was a sensory rich as I noticed everything along the way. Meticulously manicured lawns. Marble surrounding gate and interwoven sidewalks. There was an electric energy that radiated from the excitement of what stood before us.  My sister and I bucked the recommended route and started from the top floor and walked down.  We we're hit by the thronging crowd.  All nations. All generations. All generations. All creeds. All colors. Everyone was harmoniously moving around and observing the artistic expression preserved on the top level.  From Bo Diddley to Chuck Berry to Ray Charles to James Brown to Michael Jackson to Prince...the stars were all represented.  I was most pleasantly surprised by the Parliament Funkadelic Mothership.  These pieces brought to mind many childhood memories.  Coming down a level was the sports area. We we're greeted by statues of Michael Jordan, Shani Davis, Tommie Smith, John Carlos, Venus and Serena Williams.  Memorabilia from Jim Brown, Jackie Robinson, Wilma Rudolph and many many others. It was overwhelming to see the strife and strides that these athletes went through. The section on Muhammad Ali was expansive. His conscientious observer stance went through the highs and lows of his career to become the Greatest.  The Museum has many artifacts and interactive exhibits on the second floor to truly allow for a customized experience.  Going into the lower levels was an organized process.  You are escorted by elevator to the lowest third level of the building and walk your way up.  The depth and richness of African American history is on full display.  I was in awe of the full story of our past neglected by this country's educational system. To see the Middle Passage in full view brought my heart to break for the agony of my ancestors.  We walked through Slavery and Revolutionary and Civil Wars and Jim Crow and Segregation and Civil Rights Movement. My people survived all of this and continue to fight to this day.  I must say my favorite section was dedicated to our first African American President Barack Obama.  This was the highlight and the culmination of my tour.  I will never forget the sights and sounds I took in today.  What I took away from this museum was the thirst for knowledge about my race and my culture. So many people were there teaching their kids the true richness of the African Diaspora.  So many family reunions who made this trek together.  Everyone got along. There was no strife or division in the crowd. Everyone was free to look and observe everything this museum had to offer. Definitely felt like a religious experience where all are welcome to come in and see what God has in store for us.  The Museum of African American History and Culture has so much more to acquire as they have rotating exhibits.  We humans have more to accomplish before our lives are over. Let's follow God's plan and continue to expand and explore all the capacity we have for the pure purple lives that He gave us. Thank you for sharing and stopping by. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Memories for today: Ten years since 07/07/07

July 7, 2007. 07-07-07.  Do you remember where you were on this date? What were you doing? Who were you with?  I certainly do!!!  This will be forever etched in my mind.  I'm a numbers kinda girl.  Since this date was all sevens, it was considered the luckiest day of the century.  So many couples got married on this day.  Babies born.  All around good vibes for all.  I remember this date because Prince gave a huge concert on this date in his native Minneapolis.  He was promoting his album 3121, along with his perfume of the same name.  My sister and I flew out and stayed downtown in this magnificent hotel.  Prince gave a private concert at Macy's for his perfume.  THIS IS THE CLOSEST I'D EVER BEEN TO PRINCE!!!  He was up on that stage giving us the show of his life.  He was playful and intimate with the small crowd of super supreme fans.   He talked about so many details, and quipped with uber fans who followed his every tour.  Then, he gave the main concert at the Target Center.  We had extra tickets that we sold to other, eager fans.  People tried to sneak down close, but everyone in our section watched out for each other.  We are the Purple Army, Prince fanatics who keep it peaceful and funky.  Prince hit the stage late, but he rocked the house!!!!  It was magical, spiritual, and electrifying all at the same time.  My sister and I left the venue in awe of the spectacular, once in a lifetime performance.  The after show at Fifth Avenue was rumored to have been a 3 hr set.  Mind blowing for any artist, but typical for Prince.  Absolutely a fun-filled, action paced, revolutionary type of day.

Ten years have passed since that monumental day.  Cherished memories captured in song and photos.  It hard to imagine that he's gone now.  So much talent.  So many fans.   Yet his music lives on.  That's why it's time to seize the day.  To let your creative light shine.  Give yourself permission to allow your voice to be heard.  I've always wanted to write, to blog, to exercise creativity in public form.  This is my love.  This is my life.  This is how a true diva comes for her crown.  I declare to you this day that we will get through life's journey together...one moment at a time.  We will ascend to the throne of grace and claim our place among the chosen.  Prince served his religion faithfully as do I.  He has gotten his wings, and I am in line for mine.  Prince sung about guiding us to the Purple Rain.  He explained the meaning as follows: When there's blood in the sky- red and blue=purple. Purple Rain pertains to the end of the world and being with the one you love and letting your faith (God) guide you through the purple rain.  Love faith, and religion were the bases of all his songs.

Purple is royalty.  Purple is a mysterious color.  Purple is associated with both nobility and spirituality.  Hence the beginning of my blog, My Purple Life Blog.  This blog is about living life to the fullest extent...leaving nothing behind.  You want to be sure to accomplish everything you're purposed to do.  Join me on this life affirming journey to be the best you can be. Thanks for sharing and stopping by. Take Care and God Bless!!!