"Flattery"

Momma used to tell me, "Corey, imitation is the BEST form of "Flattery," my son. But the gift that dwells within YOU is for YOU and YOU alone. There is a big difference between an ORIGINAL composition and a duplicate OF the original. Yes, imitation is indeed the BEST form of "Flattery," my son."

There is also a big difference between being a professor and being a student. As a student, class is ALWAYS in session. And as a professor, the session is always being CONDUCTED. Either way, there is no mistaking where the status lies, but imitation is indeed the BEST form of "Flattery," Momma.

My Martial Arts Instructor has taught me for over 12 years, but I will ALWAYS be a student of someone that not only teaches the art form, but maintains his student status to advance himself even more in his Grandmaster status, further distancing himself from the students that he teaches.

As a 3rd Degree Black Belt, I too have the ability to teach, but have not been "ordained" in which to do so. Yet even the "ordained" have LIMITATIONS when the crux of their very existence is based on IMITATIONS. You were absolutely right Momma! Imitation is indeed the BEST form of "Flattery."

Through everyones purposefully Blessed Life, it is of the utmost importance to "imitate no more, create your OWN door and then walk through it." Do not allow it to pass you twice, before you get it first. But for those, that "won't" get it until the 3rd or 4th time out, YES Momma, imitation is indeed the BEST form of "Flattery."

Following the blueprint of another affords you nothing in the way of creating your own design, coming into your own existence, authoring your own script. You might as well lip sync or recite the words of another since your presence is overshadowed by the shadow of the one that you're imitating.

Those self imposed limitations lead to nothing but future imitations. But, should you feel comfortable in SOMEONE ELSE'S skin, behind THEIR shadow, using their WORDS, doctored and represented plagiaristically as your own, then you shall always prove my Momma right: imitation is indeed the BEST form of "Flattery," regardless of what you "Go Through or Grow Through," your entire Life.

Yet again, I thank you for the heads up Momma. Job "Well Done" (POSTED 2/21/08).

Although imitation is the BEST form of "Flattery," walking in someone else's shadow means that you will ALWAYS be, "Behind Them."

I Eternally Love You Momma!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Tapping Into, Something New"

Have you ever had to reach deep down inside to find that place that held, was in possession of, the nucleus of your soul? On the surface, we all appear a multitude of ways: strong, weak, happy, sad, satisfied, settled, content, miserable, Blessed, grateful, depressed, rejuvenated, thoughtful, shy, extroverted and even humble.

I'm learning that "Tapping Into, Something New" is providing me with a plethora of energy, emotions and answers to questions that might have otherwise seemed unanswerable.

I'm learning that "Tapping Into, Something New" is an honest and humbling proposition that should not be taken lightly or for granted for you are about to unravel some things that have bogged you down for quite some time. You will be liberated from what has kept you emotionally anchored and while the thought of freedom is liberating itself, should you not be prepared, you might find yourself entangled in all of those once hidden tangibles that are about to forever change your Life.

"Tapping Into, Something New" is unleashing that inner self, those inner thoughts and taking hold of something that once had hold of YOU!

"Tapping Into, Something New" is a personal revelation in the drivers seat as your journey rides shotgun in the neighboring seat, making sure that you do not doze at the wheel, miss your turn or lose your way: up the street, around the corner, down that road called "Narrow."

When Life has you on the ropes, do not tap out or throw in the towel, just "Tap Into, Something New."

When you stumble along the way, should you hit the ground, get back up, dust yourself off and "Tap Into, Something New."

With the New Year quickly approaching, honor the "New," appreciate the "Old," generate your "Own" by "Tapping Into, Something New."

GOD Bless You as you "Tap Into, Something New."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"What Love Does"

It has this deliberate way of reaching deep down within the marrow of your bones, steadily calling your name, even as you pretend to not hear what you KNOW you just heard.

That is "What Love Does."

This tireless, driven, ambition-filled necessity that you so crave, all on the strength that you caught one single whiff of it.

This is "What Love Does."

The need to never give up because to do so would mean to miss out on the one thing that fills you to capacity.

This is HOW "What Love Does."

Not being able to imagine yourself out of it, not even on the outskirts of the most tremendous emotion that we should ALL be so lucky to embrace, at least ONCE in our Lifetime.

That is WHAT "What Love Does."

Forgiving of the faults that exist within, reminding them not of their weaknesses, but of their strengths, bravery and courage to carry on in the midst of.

This is WHY "What Love Does."

To be there for you without once mentioning the need for companionship, to be that ear to hear and to be present when everything else is absent.

This is WHO "What Love Does."

The Who, What, Where and Why's of Love matter NOT, if Love itself, is not present.

The most beautiful thing about "What Love Does" is the fact that GOD HIMSELF, is Love. And from HIS perspective, "Love Truly Matters."

All of the aforementioned are "What Love Does."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"I Lost It All, I Gained It All"

I had to lose something in order to understand that I once had everything! "I Lost It All!" When I surrendered what I thought was mine, I gained something in return, that could never be lost! "I Gained It All!"

You see when you are being spoken to, you should listen to...what is being said. If a bird in a hand beats two in a bush, why sacrifice the one that is guaranteed, for the two that are not? Sometimes greed is the culprit, the reason why all three of the birds wind up getting away and we lose it all.

Oh, but to lose and then to gain reminds me of what My Mother used to recite: "Corey, sometimes you have to fail, in order to succeed."

The appreciation garnered might be after-the-fact with respect to what was lost, but the "lesson" learned shall be forthcoming for all the time going forward, to minimize the foolish, but needed absence of better judgment which helped you arrive at the current pit stop, that also allowed you to refuel on wisdom, having been there, LOST that!

Situations are temporary and anything speaking to the contrary of such is a blatant and open invitation to misery....You know the thing that likes to keep us company.

What was gained can never be forfeited. The tangible now has everything to do with the mental, knowing what needs to be done, thus "Making it Happen."

Once upon a time, "I Lost It All," but since I know the end of the story, and through Victory "I Gained It All."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"The Same"

You ever happen upon someone from the recent or distant past and before you know it, almost instantly, you realize that the more things change, the more they remain "The Same?"

Their desire is to pick up right where you left off, totally ambiguous to the fact that the person you once WERE, is that person no MORE! That person that you used to be does not even REMOTELY resemble the person that you are today. The physical might have remained consistent, but the mental is a "Heavenly Distant."

You have turned over that new leaf. You have turned that corner. And low and behold, you have passed them once and are about to pass them yet again, twice!

But there you are, in their midst, listening to the very words that fall off of their lips, silently concluding, while simultaneously rejoicing to yourself, THANK GOD! Momma was right! "Corey, Be A Leader, Not A Follower," "Be Your Own Man, Do Your Own Thing" and "Birds of A Feather, Flock Together." My Angel used to tell me that "You Are Judged by the Company You Keep."

Mind you, all the while they are delivering their "monologue," all of the aforementioned thoughts are running through my mind and dare me NOT, to recite any of the verbiage that was chimed my way. Outside of the first sentence through the last word, I heard not one thing. The more things change, the more they remain "The Same."

I might not be where I WANT to be, but THANK GOD, I am not where I USED to be!

Growth might be a multiple choice response to some, but it is a mandatory essay for me! There is zero option to do anything outside of Growth, except to Grow.

Self-Aggrandizing, no. Testimony to the goodness of the LORD that was bestowed upon me through "My Loving Angel," yes.

The opportunity to "dialogue" did not present itself at any point. The monologue let me know that the things we once had in common, existed no more. When I quit smoking cigarettes, I realized that a lot of my smoker friends and I actually had nothing in common, outside of our mutual addiction to those cancer sticks.

When I desire to free myself of the mediocrity that permeates my circumference, I talk about "That Sweet Goodness" of the LORD. You see, it philosophically works BOTH ways: The more things change, the more they remain "The Same."

Pleasantly surprise the recently and distant members of your past with an "essay," not a multiple choice response, because it is true, the more things change, the more they remain "The Same."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"That's A Present?"

My son asked me, "what do you want for Christmas Daddy?"

I looked down at his little face and told him, "Daddy wants you and your sister to be healthy and happy."

His response to me, "That's A Present?"

I said, "Son that is the best present that Daddy could ever ask for."

Confirmation that the best things in Life are truly indeed, for FREE!

I could not emphatically stress the importance of that conversation with my son, at this time of year, anymore than the emphasis that it currently holds.

Be Sure to Share Your Blessings with Someone. Your Generosity Could Save Their Life.

"That's A Present!"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"I Am Blessed"

I awoke to another glorious day this morning and for that very reason, "I Am Blessed." I was awaken with breath this morning and for that very reason, "I Am Blessed." I have Love in my heart today and for that VERY reason...."I Am Blessed."

The infinite ways in which I am Blessed compel me to acknowledge, through verbal confession, through written composition, through virtually any method that can be communicated, articulated or translated, that indeed, "I Am Blessed."

I need not question my Blessings or the responsibility that comes with. I give Praise, I give thanks, I rejoice and I celebrate the origins OF and WHOM has bestowed the fact that "I Am Blessed."

Take a look around. That once obstacle that is now an opportunity that has afforded you the luxury of all that you thought it could never be...you too, are Blessed.

Examine, in rearview mirror fashion just how far you have come and all that you have left behind to get where you are now...you too, are Blessed.

Being able to finish what you started, cherishing the relationships of your departed and still be able to continue in the name OF and because OF...we ALL, are Blessed.

Pass the Blessings today.

Smile on BEHALF of someone.

Be someone's voice of ENCOURAGEMENT.

Lend an ear so that someone can VENT.

Go above and beyond what is EXPECTED of "YOU.".

Pass the Peace to an unsuspecting person.

Be at Peace with YOURSELF.

Be Blessed.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Playing for Keepsies or Funsies"

Back in my marble-playing days, you were either "Playing for Keepsies or Funsies." The good marble players always wanted to play for "Keepsies" so they could grow THEIR marble collection by dwarfing YOUR marble collection. The players that always called "Funsies" were, you know, not as "Marbly Gifted." Since I fell into that category, it is safe to say that "Keepsies" was not a familiar word that my mouth ever grew accustomed to saying. Now, if the goal had been to go home marbleLESS, then by all means, game on!

I have not played marbles in quite a number of years, but sometimes when I take a look around, an in-depth view of Life and how it is both Lived and played, I am often compelled to wonder if some of Life's participants are "Playing for Keepsies or Funsies."

I must admit, My Life has compelled me to take a "Serious-All-The-Time" approach and through a Faith-Based epiphany, I am working towards changing that approach to grow my marble collection.

You see "Playing for Keepsies or Funsies" should not be solely one way or the other, but a combination of the two, just like my "Serious-All-The-Time" approach. One way affords you no other way in which to go OR grow. Therefore and in order for me to now grow my marble collection, I needed to adopt "Keepsies" into my vocabulary, not just altering my thought process, but adding TO my thought process.

When you are solely one way or the other at no less than 100%, your epiphany will come to you when you start losing your marbles (no pun intended) and your collection starts to dwarf on its own.

Some DAYS are designated as "Playing for Keepsies," while other days are designated as "Playing for Funsies."

Some THINGS are designated as "Playing for Keepsies," while other things are designated as "Playing for Funsies."

But the one thing to remember is that depending on the goal, purpose or intention, sometimes you have to play for "Keepsies" and other times you have to play for "Funsies." Knowing the difference and when is which time to do what, is the key. In order to ever arrive at that determination and proceed with conviction, you have to first engage and familiarize yourself with "Playing for Keepsies or Funsies."

In other words, open your mind to new possibilities and opportunities that are patiently awaiting your arrival. You might be surprised at that marble collection at the end of the day.

"Playing for Keepsies or Funsies"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Dagger-Free"

Once upon a time, folk would at least wait until you turned your back before they pulled their daggers out. Nowadays, or perhaps even always, if you pay attention, you can actually witness the daggers being removed from the very sheath that is protruding from underneath their garments as they salivate at the moment in which they can pierce, penetrate your flesh to rip you apart. Not that you have said or done anything to them, but because of what you represent. You probably represent everything that they wished they represented, only successfully.

Camouflaged as friends, family, members of your congregation and even the people that tell you that they love you, I now see your sheath and since it is empty, it must be wielded by yours truly.

Every smiling face ain't your friend! Every friend does not have your best interests at heart! And whomever has your heart, make certain that they DESERVE IT, because it is NOT a right, but a privilege to be permitted to share.

My LORD and Savior Faithfully represents my best interests and deserves ALL of my heart. I face HIM, I trust HIM and at the very moment that your attempts to penetrate My flesh, that of which he gave me, your one dagger will face many daggers in return because I am INDEED covered by HIS Grace and Mercy.

Bringing your dagger to this gun battle is an exercise in futility that will soon enough be realized and exposed for what it really is....NOTHING!

".....Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies....."

As long as the naysayers exist, living a "Dagger-Free" Life might not be possible, but having the "The LORD as my shepherd" is all the difference-maker that I need as I navigate down that road called "Straight."

Peace Be Still.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Thinking of You Today"

In the absence of your Loved one, I just want you to know that I will be "Thinking of You Today." Of course the last year of My Life has afforded many people to offer me the same thoughts as I am now offering you. The Love Of GOD dictates actions as such and My Heart can ill afford to do otherwise.

Love compels me to do more than expected and accepting of nothing less than. I will be "Thinking of You Today."

The memories that so warm your soul and retains the joy that keeps you alive, abiding by the very FAITH that sustains you. I will be "Thinking of You Today."

HE is abundantly aware of everything that your heart so desires and everything that your soul so requires. Yet still, I will be "Thinking of You Today."

As you draw on the Love that your memories provide, I will indeed be "Thinking of You Today."

Peace be still, My Friend.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Lost In The Truth"

Would you rather be somewhere "Lost In The Truth" or "found" barricaded in a pack of a bunch of lies? Of course the truth shall not permit you to lose your way, but instead assist you in the trail that you are attempting to litter with your attempts at success. Litter not in the irresponsible sense, but litter as in the "I was here" sense.

I've learned that one good way to remove the dishonest from your perimeter is to shun them away with the truth. In the same respect that you can shun the presence of wrongdoers by simply being habitual in doing the right thing. Get "Lost In The Truth" to shun the liars as well.

Taboo instances in which family devotions are one of the many barricaded lies, you can effectively break the cycle for your own sanity and get "Lost In The Truth" by letting go of the lies that have provided a generational plague to you and your Loved ones.

Get "Lost In The Truth" and reclaim all that the devil stole from you in the Masterful Name of Jesus and move on from the painful past that has anchored you down for so long.

Become "Lost In The Truth" and be that leading by example parent/role model that you perpetrate in the presence of others, that are otherwise blind to the fact that you are anything but.

Live "Lost In The Truth" to avoid any self inflicted mishaps in thinking that HE knows not, when indeed HE knows all.

My discovery is irrelevant since I am not trying to be found. I shall continue to be "Lost In The Truth," victory bound.

Get "Lost In The Truth!"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Designated Driver"

A "Designated Driver" should NOT be under the influence nor ASLEEP at or behind the wheel. My LIFE is the vehicle that "I" am the "Designated Driver" for! Your LIFE is also the vehicle that "YOU" are the "Designated Driver" for!

I said asleep "AT OR BEHIND" the wheel because too much of the time there are people driving under false pretenses: with no direction, no driver's license, no insurance, nowhere to go or no key for the ignition to even start. Yet you steadily find them firmly planted behind the wheel, going nowhere fast or fast asleep....MeritLESS in either capacity!

Do not wait for other vehicles to begin to pass you by. Go at least the speed limit and stay on par with the potential that exists within your own vehicle/Life.

Of course upgrading your model/mentality is always an option and the type of motivation/fuel that you put in your vehicle serves as a multiple choice option as well.

If ownership is key though, leasing your future should not be an option on the table. Of course rotating your tires/updating your short and long term goals will keep your vehicle balanced and provide for a more even ride after you have then aligned/set your goals in order.

Tuning up your vehicle/setting new goals on a regular basis, will keep you and your vehicle running for quite some time. Keep track of all of your maintenance records/accomplishments, so that when the time comes to get a new vehicle, you have all of your paperwork/success stories in order.

The parallels of Life and a vehicle should be closely documented to witness and appreciate both the similarities and differences between the two.

After all that you have invested in your vehicle/your Life, who better to designate a driver than you? Just as, if not MORE important, what better "Designated Driver" to be "AT OR BEHIND" the wheel THAN you?

I'll let YOU answer that one!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Latching On...But You Already Knew That"

It has been one year and thank GOD, I'm alright Momma! But of course, I'm sure you already knew that.

I was always a late bloomer and still to this day, I directly attribute that to the stubborn arrival on the day of My Birth. With precise recollection, ala a photographic memory, your ability to recall, make sense of and enlighten your first born, has thus given me the ability to recall, make sense of and enlighten my own children. But I'm sure you already knew that too.

I am doing unbelievably fine in your absence. Truth be told, you've spent my entire Life preparing me for such a time. Had I known what you knew I wouldn't find out until after the fact, I would have made it my business to put my two cents in. But you already knew that, hence the reason you did it the way that you did it, like a Mother.

If I achieve a fraction of your parental accomplishments, My Children will be Spiritually Wealthy and HE will be enormously pleased to know that my job was "Well Done" (POSTED 2/21/08).

You left behind some pretty big shoes to fill and the "two pairs of socks" method does not quite work. You got me on that one! Being a quick study does have its advantages, most importantly the recognition of the body of knowledge obtained by the student being granted the permission to absorb from the teacher. And I thought my "Latching On" days ended when you stopped nursing me as a baby. Yet I find myself still "Latching On" to EVERYTHING that you ever instilled in me.

Today, after one super long year, I can finally breathe! I can finally relax, enjoy your memories and let them marinate all through my mind and rid myself of the heavy burden that I have been carrying since you left.

I will sleep well knowing that all is well and that you are completely pain free. Today marks the first day of the rest of My Life and tomorrow I will once again begin to Live, one year after the fact, "Latching On" to your marvelous memories, funny stories and your infinite wisdom......"But You Already Knew That."

I Forever Love You, My Sweetest Mother!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Art of a Compassionate Heart"

It is one thing to have a BIG heart. It is another to have a GIVING heart. Yet still to have a FORGIVING heart, but a superb Blessing it is to have a "Compassionate Heart."

I must confess, I have not mastered the "Art of a Compassionate Heart," but I promise that I will continue to practice the art form until I can do it with the ease of one with a natural born GOD given gift, the stroke of a genius painter or the confidence of the perfect swagger.

I will explore all possibilities and extract from the most infinite wisdom in order to accomplish the "Art of a Compassionate Heart."

I will receive and embrace, give and embrace and share and embrace in my journey to the "Art of a Compassionate Heart."

My Mother had a "Compassionate Heart" that I am still reeling from the effects thereof. A "Compassionate Heart" is not a given, nor should be taken from, but to Bless the most compassionLESS of hearts in their quest to become more compassionate in their own right.

A "Compassionate Heart" does not make way to a foolish heart and should not be misconstrued as such. The foolish part of that equation would rest squarely on the shoulders of the one who would dare subscribe to such a belief.

The Passion of Life!
The Compassion to CHANGE one's Life!
And the Art in which to do so!

Adopt a "Compassionate Heart," and make it all your own.

The "Art of a Compassionate Heart."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"My First Birthday"

Last year this time, My Mother was calling to sing Happy Birthday to me, for the last time as My Mother. This year, for the first time as My Angel.

What has amounted to the most difficult year of My Life, has culminated to the most rewarding Life that I could have ever asked for. As a matter of fact, I did not have the wherewithal to even envision the type of Life that having a Mother such as I, could have ever afforded me.

From "My First Birthday" to the last birthday that I was Blessed to have shared with My Mother, I am forever grateful for the opportunity of being in the absolute right place, at the absolute right time, to be able to claim My Mothers DNA as her Loving son.

Two days after the anniversary of my birth, marks the anniversary of My Mothers death and although I admit defeat in the ocean of emotions that have overwhelmed me since that day, I stand in the wake of Victory as a verbal testimony to the wonderful things that My Mother did, the wonderful things that My Mother accomplished as well as the wonderful things that My Mother achieved in addition to the physical testimony to the greatness that My Mother required of myself as well as my siblings, in the form of Love.

"My First Birthday" is upon me, as well as the everlasting memory and Love that I cherish of You, Mother.

I cannot promise you that I am not going to cry today!

But, with the vigor and tenacity that My Mother so embodied, I will celebrate "My First Birthday" as My Mother calls to sing happy birthday to me, for the first time, as My Angel.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"I Did Not Make That Happen"

Historically speaking, we loathe the discovery that someone has "used" us to get what they want. How dare they infringe upon our generosity, our kindness and our oversized hearts, that we so chose to wear on our sleeves?

Historically being the operative word, we were in THEIR Life, at THAT time, for a reason. We thought that we made something happen for them. We thought that it was our efforts alone that did it for them. But what we failed to realize is that sometimes that is exactly how GOD works. Sometimes HE makes it happen for someone else, using us as a conduit in which to make that happen.

The "Laws of Reciprocity" indicate that not only were you "used" to make something happen for someone else, but at some point in time during YOUR Life, someone was "used" to make something happen for you as well.

Replacing "historically" with "going forward," we now understand that it is everything that we do that serves as a part of HIS plan that we need not question nor second guess.

It was my car that we used that day, but "I Did Not Make That Happen." HE did!

It was my checkbook that the money was drawn from, but "I Did Not Make That Happen." HE did!

You finished your studies and got that dream job, but "I Did Not Make That Happen." HE did!

I stocked the refrigerator so that WE could nourish our bodies, but "I Did Not Make That Happen." HE did!

I took your child to school so that you could go to work, but "I Did Not Make That Happen." HE did!

"I Did Not Make That Happen." I was merely the conduit, therefore the credit resides with the one that is deserving of all the Praise and Glory.

It is the "Laws of Reciprocity" that should lead you to go back and itemize all that was done FOR you, as you appreciatingly itemize all that was done BY you. It Truly balances itself out in the end.

Besides, "I Did Not Make That Happen." It was all part of HIS plan to begin with anyway. I was merely the conduit.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Jumping In The Shower"

My son jumps off of the curb.
My son jumps out of the truck.
My son jumps off of the step stool.
My son jumps off of the couch.
My son jumps off of the bed.
My son is forever jumping OFF of or OUT of SOMETHING!

I told my son that Daddy was about to jump in the shower and he turned, immediately looked up and asked, "Daddy, are you going to jump in the shower?" I responded "yes." As immediately as I responded, it dawned on me that he mistook MY "jumping in the shower" with HIS "jumping in the shower." I quickly clarified his interpretation of "jump" with Daddy's interpretation of "jump," and at that moment an epiphany came over me!

Perhaps I needed to be more thorough in how I communicate, being as precise as possible to avoid any and all misunderstandings, so that I can effectively prevent anyone from getting hurt. Do you see where I am going with this?

Imagine if I had NOT caught what my son was REALLY asking me and he was working under the guise that it was OK to "jump" in the shower. I would have not understood why he was "Jumping In The Shower" and would have just chalked it up as my son being a typical boy, doing typical boy "stuff."

Could I possibly be more communicative, choosing better use of my words, offering unequivocal clarity, as not to force someone to "jump" to any conclusions (no pun intended)? I sure can and going forward, I sure will!

My reflective nature forced me to examine just how I have been "Jumping In The Shower," ala my sons version, and not being as thorough in my verbal communication as possible.

The lessons that I have learned in parenthood have been enough to last me a Lifetime. The amount of Blogs that I can author is limitless because the ceiling on my "growth spurt" has been forever and irreversibly shattered!

I thank GOD for the opportunity of fatherhood that has been afforded TO me and Blessed FOR me.

My Mother had six children. It is no wonder why Her knowledge was as vast as it was. I am still plucking from her "Wisdom Tree" as I try to grow my own.

Tonight, I will remind my son, no "Jumping In The Shower."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"The Promise Of Tomorrow"

Yesterday is extinct, today is on the verge and tomorrow comes with a promise.

"The Promise Of Tomorrow" brings with it another opportunity in which to say thank you.

"The Promise Of Tomorrow" brings with it another opportunity in which to get it right.

"The Promise Of Tomorrow" brings with it another opportunity in which to do all of the things that you put off yesterday and today.

Yesterday might be gone and today is fading, but "The Promise Of Tomorrow" is what we can all look forward to with advanced Praise and Thanksgiving.

With a promise in hand, I'll see you tomorrow.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"New Meaning"

Some of the same things from our past that we have come in contact with in our Lifetimes take on "New Meaning" when they are packaged and presented by a "New" presenter.

For example, Love takes on "New Meaning" when it has returned from its outer body experience back to its rightful place, WITHIN your heart.

A once meaningless Song by an artist that you never really cared for takes on a completely "New Meaning" when the words of that very song now describe the Love that exists within your heart for that special someone in your Life.

You see "New Meaning" brings about "New Meaning" when the tide has turned and the bridges are UNburned and restored to their rightful upright positions, closing the gaps that separate My Love within, from Your Love within, tackling the single goal of now crossing that Faithfully restored bridge, TOGETHER.

"New Meaning," the restoration of "New," literally.

"New Meaning," the belief that Life is indeed full of purpose and "Meaning."

"New Meaning," the full circle commitment to changing the old into the new, never returning to that outer body place where Love will always feel out of place and morbidly displaced.

"New Meaning" requires new thoughts.
"New Meaning" requires new actions.
"New Meaning" requires new direction.
"New Meaning" requires your participation.

"New Meaning" is turning over a new leaf in ones Life, to abandon what did not work for something that WILL work!

"New Meaning" is a changing of the guard, a passing of the baton, a new script on Life starring the people that YOU want to cast, directed by YOU, edited by YOU and distributed by YOU. By the time the credits start rolling on your "New Meaning," make sure that your "New Meaning" is supported by Love and financed by HIM.

Look forward to the opening day of your "New Meaning."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"ALL Things Considered"

EVERYTHING that my eyes have witnessed, my physical has experienced, my mental has overcome, my soul has redeemed, EVERYTHING...I am still BLESSED beyond words, "ALL Things Considered."

When I think about how and where I could have wound up: dead, incarcerated, filled with hopeless thoughts of tomorrow, no recognition of My LORD and Savior, a disappointment to all that have believed in me...I am still BLESSED beyond words, "ALL Things Considered."

When I think about the loss of my younger Brother, the loss of my grandfather, the loss of my grandmother, the loss of my uncles, the loss of close friends and the loss of my WONDERFUL Mother...I am still BLESSED beyond words, "ALL Things Considered."

When I think about the fact that I awoke this morning to another Glorious day, filled with the Promise of HIS Word, "My Sweetest Love" (POSTED 7/10/08) and the knowledge that HE continues to keep me covered with HIS Grace and Mercy...I KNOW that I am still BLESSED beyond words.

"ALL Things Considered," everything that I have ever loss has been regained, reclaimed and reframed in a picturesque scenery rivaled by absolutely nothing that man can create and absolutely everything that HE has created.

"ALL Things Considered," I am better NOW than I have EVER been in my entire Life, yet HE continues to make me over in HIS liking, to HIS liking and for HIS liking. Therefore, I cannot complain, not one iota ...for I am still BLESSED beyond words, "ALL Things Considered."

"ALL Things Considered," do understand how BLESSED you Truly are, whether you are DEEP in the valley of despair or HIGH on the mountaintop of Victory.

"ALL Things Considered," you are immeasurably BLESSED to have WITNESSED, EXPERIENCED, OVERCOME and REDEEMED yourself "In the Face of Adversity" (POSTED 5/5/08).

You are STILL here,
"ALL Things Considered."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"BUT Love"

When you find yourself in Love with someone that challenges your heart to Live and Love a little bit Longer and Harder than what you know you have previously tried, worships WITH you and ultimately and undoubtedly compels you to be a better you, you have found yourself in all inclusive company with someone that you do not let go, someone that you cherish, someone that you hold near and dear to your heart, LITERALLY!

Love is a beautiful gesture to be outdone by no one or nothing, "BUT Love."

You cannot outshine the sun!
You cannot forgive more than Jesus!
You cannot Love more than Love!
Nothing trumps Love, "But Love."

Love is a tie game where there is no tiebreaker, "BUT Love."

Love is a one of one, none before, none in which to come, "But Love."

Love is everything that you would have it to be. Less manual intervention coupled with more Love filled intentions, marinated in the realization that NOTHING is better than Love, "BUT Love."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Absorbing From and Competing With"

We need the people that do wrong by us and against us in our Lives. It is through them that we learn what not to do, how not to be, along with how they do what they do to us and why. We are then able to recognize and PROCESS them for who and what they REALLY are. Therefore, it is vitally important for us to "Absorb From" and not "Compete With" these very people that unbeknownst to themselves, inadvertently enrich OUR Lives.

We are smarter because of them. We are wiser because of their actions. We are more focused because of their inactions. We are better for enduring what they put us through. We are more Loving because of their hateful ways. We are more complete because of their inept ability to do or be something meaningful with purposeful precision. We ARE, simply because they are NOT!

We need people in our Lives that are smarter than we think we already are. If we are to learn anything, we need to be "Absorbing From" and not "Competing With" the minds that could possibly teach us a lesson or two during the course of our existence.

You cannot do both! You will either "Absorb From" or "Compete With," and in the PROCESS you will learn to compete less and absorb more, that is until you have absorbed enough to now become competitive.

But the continuation of growth REQUIRES us to "Absorb From" and not "Compete With," forever altering our learning curve, on the permanent path to changing Life as we now know it, to Life as we would like for it to be.

In the Spirit of Love,
In the Spirit of Life,
In the Spirit of Reconciliation,
In the Spirit of Optimism,
In the Spirit of Growth,
In the Spirit of Hope,
And in the Spirit of Tomorrow.

Know the difference between "Absorbing From and Competing With."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"It Gets Better"

Hook, line and sinker, you fell right into that rut. You know that comfortable bed that's easy to get into, but hard to get out of? Well, that's what ruts are like, comfortable beds. And once you find yourself in one, immediately start plotting your escape to effectively convince yourself of the fact that "It Gets Better."

Sometimes it feels like those dark clouds have intentionally singled us out for the sake of their own amusement as we continuously struggle with the "who, what, where & why's." Sometimes it is not what we go through, or as I like to say "grow through," but what we come out of that makes us the pillars, the convicted, the "Unflappable" Faith holders, the unique storytellers, the experienced teachers and the expanded wisdom seekers.

Growth is an ever important component of Life. We cannot simply go from "Point A" to "Point B" without having experienced some sort of growth. During those "Growth Spurts" are where we find ourselves going through/growing through the most. This is just preparation for the next level because "It Gets Better."

That job that no longer offers you a challenge or is just a means to an end......"It Gets Better."

Those unsurmountable bills that keep coming in......"It Gets Better."

That relationship that keeps you entangled because it is "what you know"......"It Gets Better."

The healing from a broken marriage and subsequent divorce......"It Gets Better."

That dead beat dad that perpetrates as your childs father......"It Gets Better."

That late or nonexistent child support check......"It Gets Better."

Those taboo subjects that your family refused to ever talk about......"It Gets Better."

The hurt from the loss of a Loved one......I heard "It Gets Better."

Economic strife and having no viable means to make a way out of no way......"It Gets Better."

Crossing the finish line in Victory, at the end of your race....."It Got Better!"

Start plotting your escape now and do not allow that rut to think that it has you forever in its grasp. Once you've escaped, go back on behalf of those that are stuck and become that pillar, that convicted, that "Unflappable" holder of Faith, that unique storyteller, that experienced teacher and that expanded wisdom seeker. And with extreme testimony, tell them how "It Got Better."

"It Gets Better"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Peace, The Spirit Of"

My Mother used to always say, "Peace, Be Still." Always at least 10 steps ahead of me, My Mother's hidden treasures are still being discovered, uncovered and understood, by me. Truth be told they will probably continue down the same path of recognition for many years in which to come.

So many seeds this marvelous and magnificent woman planted. She knew that one day she would be leaving and as always, preparing me was her way of preparing herself so she could tell "Peace, Be Still."

In the midst of the storm, it has been said that one should Pray for peace. I now understand My Mothers words like never before. I appreciate the peace that she was Praying for. I'm grateful that I first heard her words, "Peace, Be Still." I graciously inherit her "Peace, The Spirit Of."

I never fully understood, but now I fully understand!

I'm so glad I was listening to you Momma. I miss you and My Love for you is right here, with every step that I take, with every breath, with every stride that I make, with every choice, I can still hear your lovely voice!

Tonight, I will Pray for "Peace, The Spirit Of."

"Peace, Be Still" Momma. "Peace, Be Still."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Unpredictability of Life"

Life is as unpredictable as an unfiltered mouth on an unknowing child or an unfiltered mouth on a knowing adult. The predictability factor is non-existent and one of the only known variables in the "Equation of Life" is the fact that your "Mathematical Value" is directly attributed to what YOU bring TO the table as well as what YOU consume FROM the table. Are you adding TO or subtracting FROM?

The "Unpredictability of Life" guarantees me there will no way to predict anything other than my participation in everything that I am unable to predict.

Remove the unpredictability factor from what you define as attractive and see the beauty that lies within the unpredictable.

GOD's actions are unpredictable, yet I still see the beauty in everything that HE does.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Unflappable"

I witnessed in pure amazement the composure that was exemplified in the midst of character MIScharacterizations, false accusations and deplorable insinuations that would have you believe "That One" person embodies all that is NOT right with the world and not good enough to BE right or ever GET right in the eyes of individuals that live within their own silo, totally ambiguous to "what else" occupies the world in which we live.

"Unflappable" he was as the stones from the decks and porches of glass homes were being cast in his direction. Faithful in his deportment he remained as they feebly failed in their attempts to reach his stature. Mediocre at best to illustrate their gameLESS plan of attack by ambushing in broad daylight.

Credibility having gone south was forcing instability to stay put while ambiguity was trying to move on.

Due to his ability to remain "Unflappable" I have witnessed internal growth of my own for the objects that are aimed in my direction have been more manageable in terms of deflection than those that were being levied at the agent of "Change."

I am better for what was endured, although the lesson being taught was vicarious, yet effective still.

Remain "Unflappable" as you weather and are in the midst of.....

44

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"The Crowd"

The naysayers will doubt you, out of their OWN fear. The pundits will critique you, because they "can't" do it themselves. The fair weathered, will blow away at the first gust of wind. The staunch will stand WITH you. GOD will Bless you all the while your Faith sustains. Victory shall bare witness to your name as perseverance rewards your commitment to be a better you for a better place for better results, to accomplish "All the Best, All the Time!"

Life begins when you awake from your sleep, there is no rest for the weary. Accomplishment begins when your to do list starts getting checked off. Success comes when that list is finished and the next one is started. Legacy is formed when you repeatedly continue to do what separates you from "The Crowd."

In a sea of faces, how you so choose to stand out is really contingent upon the purpose and the reason that you are standing out. With the operative word being "Purpose," we should all find ours since we ALL have ONE.

Be careful to not FOLLOW "The Crowd" and should your "Purpose" so dictate, direct those within "The Crowd" to find THEIR "Purpose" and always encourage others to do the exact same.

As you become the success that you are destined to be, the doubt will subside, the doubters will be converted and the tide will irrevocably "Change," lending itself to excuses no more. Aspirations are now realizations and your determination forever "Changes" your situation.

You are truly becoming everything that perhaps you were once told otherwise, simultaneously being everything that GOD made you to be! You have effectively separated yourself from "The Crowd." Congratulations in advance!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Changes Everything"

Some of the things that matter the most to us need to be made known to us by the ones that own the information that we unknowingly need to be made aware of. Sometimes this information "Changes Everything" and because of that, it could be withheld from you in fear that everything WILL indeed change. But the owners of that information do not "Honestly" determine what to withhold and what to divulge. They own the information, not the right!

I have witnessed this practice in the corporate world as well as the personal arena, in particularly when the information in question "Changes Everything" or at least has the ability to "Change Everything" should the information become public.

In the corporate world, a potential investor would probably change their mind. In the personal arena, a Lifetime investor would probably change their minds as well. One thing remains for certain, everything changes because information "Changes Everything."

It is time to "Embrace Change."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Life Lessons"

One of the best things about Life is the fact that the revolving door continues to circulate with every push, following the exit of one to the entrance of another. With every circular motion a wealth of "Life Lessons" continue to revolve so that with the exit of the previous, the successor does not have to start from scratch with respect to "Lessons Learned" and the architectural makeup of how we Live, Learn and Pass On our "Life Lessons."

Everyone that passes through the revolving door does not have the same or identical push as the one before, but in order to keep the "Life Lessons" door revolving, it is a must that you do your part and push yourself through with enough UMPH to keep the momentum going for whomever follows your lead.

We cannot take it with us when we leave here, but we sure can leave behind a legacy that exemplifies our "Push" and the "Life Lessons" that we absorbed, molded, created, rejected and accepted along our journeys path.

Until my final entrance and my final exit, I am going to marathon that revolving door and whomever follows, treat it like Double Dutch ("Double Dutch" Blog 1/1/08) and jump in to allow the determined momentum to carry you.

"Life Lessons" are a must and at some point in time, we all travel through that revolving door.

"Life Lessons"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Leave That Place"

You ever go somewhere or arrive at a "Place" that you can hardly wait to leave? I know there have been times that I have arrived somewhere and immediately upon arrival, I was already planning my departure.

Oft times we need not even go to these "Places" but once we do arrive at these "Places," it is in our departure that we grow and understand why we were there to begin with.

The "Places" that I am referring to are the "Places" that have nothing to do with physical locations (although they CAN be applicable), but have everything to do with your mental destination. Yes, we fool ourselves into "believing" that certain "Places" are ok and an acceptable way of Life. If that was so true, then why is it so imperative for us to CONVINCE ourselves of that? The truth does not need convincing. It is the TRUTH!!!

Therefore, that "Place" called "Average" is no longer an acceptable mental destination. Check out before you check in and "Leave That Place!"

That "Place" called "Content" is no longer an acceptable mental destination. Don't let the grass even THINK about growing under your feet. "Leave That Place!"

The place called "Normal" is no longer an acceptable mental destination. Create your own sense of what you believe and "Leave That Place!"

That stop called "Mediocre" is no longer an acceptable mental destination. High step it and promptly "Leave That Place!"

Move from that town called "Simple" because it is no longer an acceptable mental destination. Change your address and "Leave That Place!"

All of your friends that share the same "Shallow" nickname. They are no longer an acceptable mental destination. Terminate their existence in your Life and "Leave That Place!"

So, when you have come to the final conclusion and you "Leave Those Places," it will be in your departure that your growth has facilitated the understanding of why and how you allowed yourself to be there in the first place.

Should you "EVER" arrive at a "Place" that does not jive with who and what you are and represent, IMMEDIATELY "Leave That Place!"

I'm gone!

I Love You Mother!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"I'm Ready"

I've heard it said that when opportunity is knocking, you should not only answer the door, answer the call, but you should be ready for what that opportunity has in store so when your name IS next, hesitate not in your actions, delay not in your reactions, but most importantly, be ready!

I have spent my entire Life preparing for what's about to happen to me now. Every word has lead to every paragraph. Every paragraph has lead to every story. Every story has lead to another story. And throughout it all, my Life's preparation has been rehearsed over and over, time and again. "I'm Ready!"

It has been said that if you do not use your skills, you lose your skills. You must practice your craft everyday in order to not only be good and even the best at it, but most importantly to be ready when you hear that resounding echo at the door in the form of a knock. "I'm Ready!"

I've learned to steer clear of those that have the unprepared approach, unless of course "thriving in chaos" is what you do best. The eyes of my children are among me and through what I learn, I in turn, teach them to be ready. Their level of readiness is confined to their personal agenda. But if their personal agenda is number one on the list of things to do, rest assured, they are ready.

Should you not be ready, you should get ready! In order to "Own That Opportunity" you must capture "Readiness in a Bottle," personalize it and make every effort to answer the door, answer the call and allow your preparedness to drive your success.

"I'm Ready."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"To Be"

Some people are where they are because they are "content."

Some people are where they are because they are "happy."

Some people are where they are because they have no "choice" (or so they think).

And some people are where they are because that is exactly where they want "To Be."

I ask, where are you?

Where I am is exactly where I am meant "To Be," seeing all that I need to see, being all that I need "To Be" so that I can make all the difference between you and me.

If I am "To Be" everything that is required of me, then I shall align myself with the solution, studying the WORD, emulating HIS presence, growing stronger in and acknowledging HIS will and HIS way everytime I attempt to have it my will and my way.

If I am "To Be" everything that I know I can be, then I need to strip me OF me and start all over from "a TO z."

If I am "To Be" YOUR "To Be" then we need not remain "Content" without being "Happy" in our "Choice" of where we are
"To Be" coupled with all that I mean to you and all that you mean to me.

I have come to the conclusion, albeit not unique, that where you are is nothing short of a state of mind. Therefore, consciously choosing where you are is synonymous with being exactly where you want "To Be," which is exactly where I am.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Rejoicing"

Ever roll up on someone and they are right in the middle of an infectious and undeniable SMILE? They are quietly "Rejoicing!" GOD is in their midst and they are celebrating what HE has DONE or what HE is ABOUT to do! The healing power of laughter or a warm SMILE will always be a beautiful thing, especially with the knowledge that they are either "Rejoicing" at what is happening to them right now or what is about to happen to them!

When you "Rejoice," it has a tendency to have an outward display of affection for a reason. It is meant for others to bare witness to the act of "Rejoicing" so that they now have a visual of what it is to "Rejoice," and will not be ashamed of "Rejoicing" when HE is in THEIR midst, working out THEIR problems. Everything happens for a reason and if HE is not reason enough, reason enough does not exist, could not exist and would be totally irrelevant in the event that it did exist, without HIM.

Therapeutically soothing and undeniably infectious, "Rejoicing" is my preferred method of an outward display of affection!

Catch me *SMILING* and know that HE is in my midst, working it out on my behalf and that I am happily "Rejoicing" because I already know the outcome.....hence the reason that I am "Rejoicing!"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Invest In Yourself"

In an economic whirlwind where we do not know where to dump, put or hold on to our Lifelong resources, perhaps this presents the perfect opportunity in which to "Invest In Yourself."

We are always looking for someone on the OUTSIDE to help us with our assets, yet we do not take the TIME to manage our own. Sometimes we are looking out and AROUND when we need to steadfastly search from WITHIN! That internal investigation and discovery phase will yield much higher percentages and greater returns on our investments should we/you be so inclined to "Invest In Yourself."

In the big scheme of things, wouldn't it be a beautiful thing to invest in yourself, see a return, invest more in yourself and see a big return, invest more in yourself and see an even bigger return, invest even MORE in yourself and see the BIGGEST return you've ever witnessed in your Life? That is exactly how HE works. GOD is good and that is all that HE wants us to do. HE wants you to "Invest In Yourself" to make a better Life for you and your family, depending on HIM to manage your assets and not someone that does not have your best interests at heart. HE needs not take or steal from you because there is nothing that we have that HE has not afforded us to begin with! You'd best believe that EVERYTHING that we have is all in accordance to what HE so desires for us, until we graduate, thus turning it over to HIM.

"Invest In Yourself" to lift yourself higher. "Invest In Yourself" to lift those around you higher. "Invest In Yourself" to lift HIM up higher. And when you "Invest In Yourself" having lifted yourself higher, you cannot help but "witness" how HE has more than met you HALFway by providing you EVERY way that you need to survive both yesterday, tomorrow AND today!

At the end of the day, that economic whirlwind just required us to stand in the midst of FAITH to demonstrate that the solution lies not in the problem, the solution resides "WITHIN" yourself and the problem solver HIMSELF!

When you "Invest In Yourself," you will not, cannot go broke. It becomes the gift that keeps on giving. Truly! When you "Invest In Yourself," your portfolio automatically becomes diverse as it anxiously awaits the fruits of your labor, for its harvest time!

Your Life depends on it, so "Invest In Yourself!"
Your Loved ones need it, so "Invest In Yourself!"
Your inspiration to others craves it, "Invest In Yourself!"
Your example to people welcomes it, "Invest In Yourself!"

Invest-In-Yourself!

The health of the economy is trivial in comparison to the health of your state of mind. Whatever lost shall be found. Whatever stolen shall be returned. Whatever denied shall be rewarded! All you need to do is "Invest In Yourself."

Blessings.

I Love You Mother!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Make the Most of YOUR -Dash-"

A good friend of mine that used to encourage me once told me that you have to "Make the Most of YOUR -Dash-." YOUR Life is the "-Dash-" that rests squarely between YOUR birth and YOUR death. Everything that happens in between is YOUR "-Dash-" and is representative of YOUR Life, hence the call to "Make the Most of YOUR -Dash-."

It took me a second or two to comprehend the core of what was being said, because it was actually easier than what I had initially made it out to be.

YOUR "-Dash-" is YOUR Life and all that lies within. YOUR "-Dash-" is what has been bestowed upon YOU in the beautiful form of Life, to make the most of it, giving it YOUR best and bringing the most out of YOUR best.

The beauty in YOUR "-Dash-" is the fact that it cannot be claimed or represented by anyone but YOU. Of everything that perhaps YOU do not have or own, YOU do have and own YOUR "-Dash-."

Compliments of my good friend, six valuable words were shared with me that day and I still heed the advice: "Make the Most of YOUR -Dash-."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"What A Difference A Year Makes"

The excitement of writing and sharing Life experiences and stories began 1 year ago today! In a relatively short period of time, both from afar and up close and extremely personal, what started as an internal manifestation has thus rejected its domestic existence for a more prominent role in what has become a story in and of itself. What has taken root is a belief system that implores you to take a look at YOU and all that YOU are, to be all that YOU can, all of the time!

"All the Best, All the Time" has made me take a more in depth look at Corey and understand the makeup of this man and proactively plan out what is next, what is in store for me and how I can continuously improve upon myself, in the form of a human being, on matters of Love, as a Father, as a Son, as a Brother and lastly, as Corey!!

I learned long ago that contrary to self-centered belief systems, it is "Not About Me" (11/27/07 Blog). I have learned that throughout a Lifetime, many Lives have and will continue to come in and out of yours. But at all times, all the "Glory Be To GOD."

Everytime I wind up where I never thought I would be, I know that HE had/has HIS hands all on me! Everytime I make it through, unscathed, unscratched and stronger than EVER, HE had/has HIS hands all over my situation. Everytime I cross that finish line, I have automatically started the next race on my way to the NEXT finish line. HE promised me VICTORY each and every time, so in turn I promise to KEEP RUNNING! All in stride, gulp as I swallow that pride and relinquish all of self from the equation then subtracting the remainder by 100% ("The Ultimate Gift" 5/29/08 Blog).

I run because My Mother couldn't! I tithed because the Word tells me so! I live because too many Loved ones have died! I BELIEVE because HE rose! I write because I think! I think because I'm FREE! I'm FREE because My Mother did not raise me in captivity, she allowed me to spread my wings and FLY!

Through it ALL, I acknowledge My Mother and all that she has EVER done TO me and FOR me! A good man I am, not because I say so but because My Mother raised me to BE so! A good Father I am, not because I say so but because being a good man requires me to BE so! That's why I THANK My Momma! That's why I LOVE My Momma! That's why I MISS My Momma! And that is why My Momma will FOREVER live through me. When you see me, you SEE My Momma!

Yes, I will confess, "What A Difference A Year Makes."

Now, it's time to lace my shoes up, I have yet another race to run. This time, My Momma awaits me at the finish line.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"In The Meantime And In Between Time"

It never ceases to amaze me how much people pay such close attention to everything that you are doing right down to the emulation of the formation of the words that roll off of your lips, to the recycled and feeble attempts to live vicariously through their meaningLESS up to your meaningFUL existence.

Some people WATCH things happen, hence the attention, while the watched are out there MAKING it happen, hence their "existence." But, "In The Meantime And In Between Time" it is of the utmost importance to be conscious of the venom that is being spat in your direction by the very same individuals that LACK direction! You ever happen to notice how they are NEVER doing anything? They do not KNOW where they are going because they do not KNOW what they are doing. It is no coincidence that "KNOW" is the FIRST half of the word "Knowledge." If you lack "Knowledge" of self, you will always maintain a directionless perspective becoming a permanent spectator, watching the doers getting it done by "Making It Happen!"

One of my literary friends once said, "I'm not looking AT you, I'm looking PAST you!" Should you happen to catch my visual aimed in your direction(less), "I'm not looking AT you, I'm looking PAST you!" By the time you arrive...I'm already gone!

But, "In The Meantime And In Between Time," as you continue to fuel my motivational drive, please understand that I will be driven by success by NOT allowing the "Watchers" to knock me out of my element. Please, I implore you to do the same!

Do not WAIT for success to pick you up, get behind the wheel and drive it yourself!

"In The Meantime And In Between Time," I am well on my way to the FINISH line, so that I can START!

Be Inspired!

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Too, 3, 4 AND 5"

If I told you that "I Love You" every single hour of every single day, would that be enough to convince you of the obvious?  My response to your "I Love You's" is always that "I Love You Too."  Sometimes it escapes me to think that your nutritional Love scale needs to pack on the pounds in order to persuade you of the most obvious.
 
3. Should they bare witness to how I look at you, they would know.  So should you!
4. Should they read the written confessionals, they too would know.  So should you!
5. Should they feel the Love that exists within my heart, they would already know.  So should you!
 
As the recipient of all of the above, the only doubt that exists is born of the fear that you have lived by for far too long.  Shake off the disbelief and reward yourself with all that you have earned and deserve. Learn to Love and Believe in the same Love that you have learned to Love.
 
Believe that you Believe.
Love like you wish to be Loved.
Fear nothing that you do not believe or love because it matters not.
 
I KNOW that you Love me and I BELIEVE that you Love me.

I Love You "Too, 3, 4 AND 5!"
 
Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!
 
All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Simpatico"

Intertwined thought processes that both compliment one another, unquenchably attracting each other and undeniably reinforcing the other, "Simpatico."

I smell your presence, I taste your passion, I hunger for more, savoring the last morsel of the last "Embrace" that we shared. And to think that you just left, "Simpatico."

Fast forward to our next encounter and press pause, until we catch up to each other, recreating the favorite scene of our favorite auto-biographical movie, continuing to pause our most memorable moments, rewinding them only to relive them, recreate them and pressing play all over again, in slow motion, "Simpatico."

Forget you never, Loving you forever, stuck in the midst of complete harmony, realizing the reason "To Be" and exactly what your existence means to me, "Simpatico."

I might have missed it the first time, but I got it the second time and for all intents and purposes THIS TIME, it is ALL mine, "Simpatico."

Confusing to the outside, perfectly scripted on the inside referencing nothing but the location of where Love resides, "Simpatico."

Totally representative of just the two of us and our intertwined thought processes. "Simpatico."

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Missed Opportunities"

My Mother used to say, "Don't let your mouth write out a check that your ass can't cash." Sometimes the "Diarrhea of the Mouth" syndrome gets us caught up in the intangibles that fool us into writing that check and then having the nerve, the sheer audacity, of trying to actually cash it.

Shame on us for being so foolish in our thought process as to "think" that lipservice puts us on some sort of advantageous path, one in which would "Hit" on opportunities as opposed to actually presenting itself in the form of what they actually wind up becoming, "Missed Opportunities."

I've heard it stated, "Some people do not recognize opportunity, because it comes in the form of hard work." Well, if hard work is disguised as an opportunity, then lipservice provides you no service at all in taking complete advantage of your soon to be "Missed Opportunities."

The next time opportunity knocks, answer the door! "Missed Opportunities" are hard to come by the 2nd time around.

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Picking at the Scab"

Sometimes the "Healing Process" needs to run its course in its entirety without us "Picking at the Scab," interfering with the natural process.

Who hasn't picked at a scab before though? You ever attempt to peel the scab off and you wind up bringing some skin along with it only to start the bleeding again? I know I have.

The "healing" is a part of the "process" hence the importance of these two joined words to create the "Healing Process." Yet when we choose to "Pick at the Scab," we have so chosen to interfere with the natural "Healing Process" whose "soul" purpose is to bring about a necessary healing from something that was lacerating, deep, painful, scarring and too often, permanent.

The "Healing Process" knows WHAT it needs to do and also knows exactly WHEN it needs to be done. We are not adding value to a process that is already perfect. "Picking at the Scab" only delays the "Healing Process," making matters much worse than what it would have been had we only let the "Healing Process" run its course in its entirety without our needless intervention.

This holds true to failed relationships of the professional AND personal type up to and including marriages. There is nothing tricky about the "Healing Process," it just needs the flexibility to "do what it does."

Before you know it, the scab, representative of the pain incurred, starts to wither away into oblivion and oft times before we even realize it, the scab is already gone. The "Healing Process" has successfully run its course, providing a new layer of external protection so that we can now move on to the internal "Healing Process."

Sometimes, both the external and internal heal simultaneously, or so we think. I firmly believe that the internal learns from the external, in order to double up on those new layers of internal protection to minimize the hurt that we experience on the inside. But if we "pick at that scab," interfering with the natural "Healing Process" the pain experienced will be even greater than previously known because our interference successfully delayed the creation of the additional layers of protection.

Whether it is the scab or either the internal or external "Healing Process," the common denominator is representative of a form of protection through additional layers.

Even if it is a failed relationship of the professional OR personal type up to and including a marriage, allow the "Healing Process" to run its course in its entirety, without running any interference. Those newly formed extra layers of protection are going to come in handy. Therefore, resisting the temptation of "Picking at the Scab" will indeed facilitate that scab inevitably withering away into oblivion, perhaps even taking any signs of permanence with it.

And with that being the ultimate goal, it is time to stop "Picking at the Scab!"

Love and My Mother are My Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are My Motivation!
Love and My Mother are My Celebration!
Love and My Mother are My Dedication!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"The Best Man I Can Be"

Being "The Best Man I Can Be" is not a challenge, but a daily requirement that affords me the opportunity to demonstrate through GOD's perfect illustration that I can and will be "The Best Man I Can Be," for it is the only TYPE of man that I know HOW to be.

My Mother raised me to be bigger than me and nothing less than me and to claim everything in between because it too, represents "The Best Man I Can Be."

How do you fill shoes that are unfillable? How do you measure up to something that is unmeasurable? How do you compare to something that is incomparable? For me it's simple: I don't! I am just "The Best Man I Can Be." If it is good enough for HIM, then it is MORE than good enough for me.

Being more than "The Best Man I Can Be" is an acceptable and viable option to go unnoticed by no one but myself. I focus not solely on what I CAN be, but what I AM and have the potential to ultimately BECOME.

My goal has always been to "Next Level" myself while maintaining the same level of integrity that has defined who I am. Career advancements do not even remotely carry the same weight in comparison to Life advancements.

My Life shall be an example for my son to not measure up to, but to fuel his ambition to what his heart so desires simply by ME being "The Best Man I Can Be."

My Life shall be an example for my daughter to not measure up to, but to fuel her ambition to what her heart so desires simply by ME being "The Best Man I Can Be."

By being "The Best Man I Can Be," I offer up myself to make those around me better, "Boomerang Effect" that, to in turn make myself, better.

It is a Win/Win! The victory is already done and the battle is already won because I chose to be "The Best Man I Can Be."

My Mother once told me to "never" say "never" because you "never" know what might compel you to have to do what you once said you "never" would do.

My Mother also knew her son.

Mother, I will NEVER stop thanking you for making me the absolute best PERSON that I could be! Because of that I know how to be "The Best Man I Can Be." It's that "Boomerang Effect." You made me and then you made me better!

I Love You!

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"In Their Sight"

Completely strip them of their color and remove any enthusiasm that you bare witness to whenever you look into them.

Close the window to my soul, seal it shut and weatherproof it. My eyes will forever be naked without YOU, "In Their Sight."

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Aroma of Love"

To unequivocally Love and allow yourself to be Loved, one should be so fortunate as to embrace all that Love has to offer and also be able to take your place among the beneficiaries of one of the greatest joys ever known, Love.

There is no pre-packaging or associated instructions with respect to Love and Loving. Love is not on par with MRE's (Meals Ready to Eat) either. Sometimes before you partake in the feast called Love, you need to first sprinkle it with your own personalized ingredients, that make it all yours.

Oft times Love needs to be thawed, seasoned, marinated, and cooked on low to bring the flavor THROUGH and not just on the surface with the presentation. Although Love might be at varying stages of the preparation process, the "Aroma of Love" is unmistakable, deliciously tempting and sooner or later, will COMPEL you to take a seat and partake in the meal that Love has prepared JUST for you.

The Aroma brought you in and it is the Love that will keep your insatiable appetite satisfied.

Since there is no substitute for the "Aroma of Love," your recognition of the smell will bring a quiet Smile to your face and a delightful passion to never be replaced.

It is time to eat, the "Aroma of Love" is in the air.

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Improvise"

Not too much, not too little, the medium size latte represents the perfect opportunity for me to satisfy my espresso craving in the morning.

On many occasions, I have waited in line either before her or after her, to satisfy the same craving. Well, due to the fact that this particular coffee store was completely out of medium and large size coffee cup lids and the possibility of a liability issue, they could not sell hot beverages to customers until they acquired the appropriate lids for their medium and large size cups.

So, on this particular morning she could not get her medium or large size beverage and decided to storm out of the coffee shop in protest as if they sold the last espresso bean in the ENTIRE world, to the customer BEFORE her.

As I always do, thoughts of My Mother immediately invaded my thought process as I fondly recalled all of the times in which My Mother did not have what "I" NEEDED or thought "I" WANTED, but she always demonstrated the ability to "Improvise" at a moments notice and make SOMETHING out of NOTHING. And because of that innate ability, me going to bed hungry was NOT an option.

I thought to myself, "she can still get some coffee. It just won't be in her preferred size (what "she" NEEDED or thought "she" WANTED)."

At the end of the Barista Bar, I patiently awaited for my cup of coffee as she proceeded to march out of the store. How dare me and shame on me if "I" so chose to act in such a manner, displaying unnecessary behavior. That would have equated to a form of disrespect for all of the times that My Mother "Improvised" and made it happen.

Had she taken the time to open up her options, she would have ordered a small size cup of coffee and come to the instant realization that the person behind the register was actually the manager and he was giving away the "small size" drinks for FREE.

Sometimes it is through "Improvisation" that we yield some pretty good results, if we only open up our minds and forgo what we "think" we NEED or WANT. Not too much, not too little, the medium size latte does indeed represent my preferred beverage size, but a free small size cup of coffee tastes better to my pockets in an upside economy that I'm so Blessed to still be able to enjoy my Gourmet Coffee.

Going forward, I will always think of "Improvise" whenever I see her in the coffee store. I will always think of My Mother when I see her and THINK of "Improvise" in the coffee store. And in doing so, I will fondly recall My Mother's innate ability TO "Improvise," that kept my hunger pains at bay and always kept us humbled each and every day.

The Blessing is not necessarily in what you NEED or WANT, it is often in everything that you do NOT have and cannot get, at that moment. But, perhaps the Blessing of the day, was a free cup of coffee to start you on your way? Perhaps.

Sometimes Blessings come in packages that differ in the size that you were looking for, needed or wanted. But a Blessing is a Blessing and for all intents and purposes, Blessings lie within the RECOGNITION of such, that a Blessing IS amongst you.

Expand your options and enjoy your small cup of coffee today. The cashier is actually the manager of the coffee store and he has "Improvised" a Blessing for you on this day.

Blessings.

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"The Beginning of the End: Resolution"

Oft times the end of a story brings about a certain level of sadness within a mindset that fails to realize that it is IN an "ending" that your NEW "beginning" takes its first breath, at birth. You simply cannot start Chapter 2 before you have finished Chapter 1. You might not otherwise completely understand the story that has unfolded before your very eyes.

"The Beginning of the End: Resolution" is nigh. The spirits of running through those big, wide open doors is high. The opportunities of starting anew are endless. The options of companionship means that one will not be friendless. "The Beginning of the End: Resolution" is nigh.

Learning to Love and Trust again will not ever be taken for granted by the two newly departed. Appreciating the "Substance" that you bring to the table will not ever be mistaken or forsaken again. The stakes are entirely too high because as of this very moment, right now, "The Beginning of the End: Resolution" is nigh.

The lessons of a lifetime that will be forever scribed in the mind of an experienced soul that has learned that it is not within ones own understanding, but the shared understanding that begs to be shared with those that have yet to depart, because the Love still exists, within their heart.

Standing on the edge of my fear, with a leap of Faith, I land on top of my destiny, "In the Face of Adversity," with every intention of succeeding Faithfully and in complete harmony of my very own symphony, as I explore the territories that I once thought were not for me.

All that was once unbeknownst to me, is now known to me, heard in the clearest voice, read in the perfect handwriting, with zero need for clarification, modification or justification as to WHY, "The Beginning of the End: Resolution" is nigh.

A better man is BEFORE you as his experienced soul writes TO you. Chapter 2 awaits the turning of the page; a moment in time, forever captured, etched in ones mind.

Something tangible that Life has for me, as I patiently await the transitional Chapter (2) and the start of 3.

"The Beginning of the End: Resolution" is nigh. Outside of the joint responsibilities, it is time to say, "Goodbye."

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Ducks in a Row"

Corey, "look before you leap and even then, be sure to have all of your "Ducks in a Row" to make sure that you have successfully planned your work and worked your plan to allow yourself the opportunity to net the results that you are looking for."

FOREVER, that's my MOMMA talking to me!

I looked at some geese exiting the lake after Church one day and I IMMEDIATELY thought about when my Mother used to tell me, "Corey, get your 'Ducks in a Row'." There was no exception to Her "Ducks in a Row" Rule either. And as I witnessed the geese exiting the water, they all got in a single file line while ONE in particular stood watching over the rest of the geese as they all exited, one at a time, in a single file line.....all "IN A ROW."

Everywhere I go, I speak, I hear, I see, I feel and I touch my Mother! She is EVERYWHERE that I am!

As I watched the geese get themselves in line as the ONE watched over the rest, I thought about my Mother watching over Her young and loved ones in the same manner.

I too watch my "Children" get themselves in line, their daddy watching over his young and loved ones in the same exact manner.

JESUS watches over HIS "Children" as we get ourselves in line and HE ensures US, HIS young and loved ones, a watchful eye, in the same exact manner as well.

Sometimes you do not get it, until you get it! I got it, plan to keep it and will relinquish it, NEVER!

"Corey, get your 'Ducks in a Row'." I hear my MOMMA talking to me in her typical verbose manner, FOREVER "Planting the Seeds" of hope and triumph!

I might not have my Momma anymore, but damn if she did not instill in me, prepare me for and equip me with all of the necessary tools and essentials that I needed in the form of endless reserves for the rest of my life!

I got it Momma!

From your Heavenly perch, watch your son get his "Ducks in a Row."

FOREVER,
Your Loving
and Proud Son!

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Substance"

A pretty face in no way, shape or form constitutes an appropriate covering for "Substance." Nothing compensates "Substance" for "Substance" and the outer appearance should not dictate a thought process otherwise.

"Substance" is having the wherewithal to verbalize your thought process with intelligence and coherence that extends beyond your very own capacity, limited, talented or otherwise.

Too often we mistaken subtraction (-) with addition (+). The only thing missing is the "other line." The "other line" that goes through the "other line" of truth that was camouflaged for having/adding something that was never there to begin with. "Nothing from Nothing does indeed equal Nothing."

Lipservice will provide you with a feeble attempt that would have you believe that your "-" is actually a "+" and while you are not looking for that "other line" of truth, you start accepting your "-" as a "+" and before you know it, you find yourself coming up short, continuously.

Mediocrity cannot stand in for "Substance." The truth does not take a day off, for it is always on point when mixed with a "Substance" that cannot be denied.

In the absence of absolute certainty, rely heavily upon "Substance."

For what you bring to the table is your contribution to the "Substance" that we consume.

May YOUR contributions be a "+" and not a "-."

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Unconditional Love"

The birth of my daughter introduced me to the first thought and complete understanding of "Unconditional Love" in its truest and most purest form, in the eyes of GOD.

I witnessed my little girls birth into this world with a presence that in turn witnessed the birth of her father's "Unconditional Love," for her and all of the Loved ones in my Life.

I have been on the front lines of parenthood, both offensively and defensively, with one single purpose: to guide and lead down a path of righteousness shown through the Living example and demonstration of "Daddy."

In order to DO right, I had to GET right!

I said: "IN ORDER TO DO RIGHT, I HAD TO FIRST GET RIGHT!!!"

That's right, it had to start with ME, if I was going to deliver it to THEM! Otherwise, how would it get done? Would I simply defer that to someone else? Would I haphazardly appreciate the Blessings that have been bestowed upon me? What would "I" do if "I" were in "MY" shoes? Well, I did just THAT!

In order to remain "Just Like A Daddy," I had to first BECOME one! My daughter's birth did not guarantee me that title. My ACTIONS provided and provide me with that title! Stripping myself COMPLETELY of me and ALL of my selfish thoughts and wants brought me to this place and space called "Unconditional Love."

I relish in the fact that I can look into the mirror everyday of my Life and be pleased with how far I have come. I use MYSELF as a measuring stick to gauge where I AM, from where I CAME. I wasn't always right and I will always be a continuous work in progress, this I know. But, for the purposes of reflection and perspective, when I "peek" back, I am so joyously proud and honored that through the birth of GOD's Blessings to me, I have arrived to that "Unconditional Love" that fuels my soul, drives my actions and responsibly molds the lives that helped ME re-mold my very own Life.

"HIS works are incredible! HE used the Lives that HE placed in my Life, to reshape me, so that I could mold them, in HIS liking!"

GOD is good! HIS Love is everlasting and forever endures the hands of time.

If you do not know HIM, introductions are in order. You will be pleased to make HIS acquaintance, this too, I know.

Thank you Princess, for introducing "Daddy" to this place and space called "Unconditional Love."

Keep reshaping "Daddy," and through "Unconditional Love," we will ALL be in HIS liking!

"Unconditional Love" in its truest and most purest form, ALL in the eyes of GOD.

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Just Like A Daddy"

My "Children" recently saw a picture of my Mother and I that dated years back. In perfect unison, they equally chimed, "that's Daddy!" I was rocking a mustache and had quite a bit of hair atop my head.

So I asked them if they preferred Daddy WITH or WITHOUT a mustache and they both said, "no mustache Daddy!" I also asked them if they preferred Daddy WITH or WITHOUT hair and they both said, "no hair Daddy!" My daughter proceeded to go back to what she was doing and my son came to me, embraced me and said, "Daddy, I want you to stay, "Just Like A Daddy!""

I immediately took what my son said and on the surface I was under the impression that he did not like my "other" appearance and much preferred the appearance that he has always known.

After much deliberation, I firmly believe that my son was saying, Daddy, don't change! I know you as my Father, a provider, a friend, a playmate, a companion, a protector and a dependable source of protection. Sound familiar?

I believe my son thought that should Daddy change, that Daddy WOULD change, thus altering what he KNEW his experience of "Daddy" to be. I promised my son that Daddy would not change and that he can look forward to what he knows as Daddy to be, his Father forevermore. Nothing could ever change that fact because an outward appearance does not alter or change my internal makeup. He smiled.

My son embraced me again, he took another look at the picture of his grandmother and I and he said, "that's my Daddy!"

Are you not glad that regardless of our outer appearance that HIM being our Father never changes, alters or is modified from what we have come to know it as? HE remains "Just Like A Daddy" every day of every week of every month of every year.

As a parent, as a loving father and then as a human being and finally as Corey, my "Children" demand that I keep my growth on par with theirs.

When they are old enough to read Daddy's Blogs and additional writings, they will then realize that their youthful innocence taught their Father more life lessons than I could have ever imagined or bargained for.

I'm going to take my "Children's" advice with respect to my appearance because I too prefer it now as opposed to then, all the while I simultaneously heed my son's additional advice and stay "Just Like A Daddy."

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey

"Stronger In, Grow Through"

Whatever it is that I am going through, please allow it to change me, make me over, in the form to YOUR liking. Please allow my change to be in accordance with YOUR will as I grow "Stronger In" everything that YOU have laid out for me.

Typically, we "go through" so much that we fail to realize that through our trials and tribulations, we do not just "go through" as much as we actually "Grow Through."

I become "Stronger In," to afford me the momentum to be able to "Grow Through" whatever comes my way. I offer up myself as a conduit with the very words that vacate my thoughts and escape to all peripherals, mine, yours and the like.

I promise to be "Stronger In" to be able to "Grow Through," what comes, what may.

May my experience guide my "Children" to be "Stronger In" as they too "Grow Through" the plans that YOU have in store for them.

May the Love of my Life be "Stronger In" to be able to "Grow Through" the plans that YOU have for Her.

May whomever that subscribes to a belief that is bigger than themselves be "Stronger In" to be able to "Grow Through" what YOU have in store for them as well.

"Stronger In, Grow Through" is not optional. Our lives will indeed face ups and downs that require us to pull up our FAITH by the bootstraps and stand with the type of conviction that "Stronger In, Grow Through" requires of us.

Mind you, you do not have to be "STRONGEST In," because HE has already won that battle on our behalf. We just need to be "Stronger In," so that HE can elevate us to the next level after we "Grow Through."

Hallelujah!

Love and My Mother are the Inspiration!
Love and My Mother are the Motivation!
Love and My Mother are the Celebration!

All the Best, All the Time!
Corey