"Me, Is We"

I so choose to live a transparently free Life in order to facilitate the quality of my Life as I face the challenges, both mental and physical in my Life.

While transparency does not mean everything, there is nothing that is off-limits in my quest to be free and to ultimately free myself from everything that has no other purpose in my life, than to anchor me down.

It has been far too long and far too wide an effort to stifle the progress that has brought us WHERE we are, THIS far.

With every expectation of 100% reciprocity, what I am willing to share, to do, to be, to make, to make happen, is unparalleled and not comparable to any other that resides under a cover of ambiguity, or uncertainty because they are not free, to even be.

My journey has been and continues to be a daily lesson learned as I earn each credit from each lesson, working and striving towards academic excellence. Oh, if Life were so easy.

But, it can be, as soon as you choose to live Life, FREE.

In all that I do, for all that I see, my Life is your Life, which now means, "Me, Is We."

Transparency never looked so clear.

What WE are willing to share, to do, to be, to make, to make happen, is unparalleled and not comparable to any other that resides under a cover of ambiguity, or uncertainty because WE, are free, to be.

And now, "Me, Is We."

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

"Love Better"

Now that I know how to use my heart, I subsequently know the importance of exercising it for "flexibility, endurance, strength, capacity and longevity."

Now that I know that the purpose of my heart is not to only pump my blood, but to circulate the Love that is within me to all aspects and components of my body, internally as well as externally.

Now that I know how to listen to my heart, my stubborn head will begin to follow the Love that we should all be led by.

Now that I know how to reconcile my past and work towards building my future, I truly know no limits because now nothing is over my head or casting a shadow over my existence.

I Promise to speak more, listen more.

I Promise to Smile more, frown less.

I Promise to live more, enjoy all.

I Promise to be more compassionate, less judgmental.

I Promise to be more forgiving, less grudgingly.

I Promise to be more accepting, more open.

I Promise to Promise everything that I have Promised.

And lastly, I Promise to "Love Better."

I sincerely Love You and You, I will "Love Better," starting now.

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

"Time To Let Go"

Sometimes emotions and feelings wind up inadvertently depriving us of what we rightfully deserve.

We become so entangled in those very emotions and feelings that we wind up clouding our better judgment, making MORE mistakes, becoming MORE engulfed and even MORE tangled, trying to function and operate in the foggiest of situations with no direct visibility for miles, let alone beyond the tips of our noses.

When the giving of your heart far outweighs what you experience in return, it is time to rethink your ROI (Return On Investment). You don't need more investors, you just might be in need of a better business plan, experienced resources, seasoned risk takers and people that are simply, not afraid.

When the movements within your Life are circular, it is time to get off of the warn path and blaze a new one that you can successfully litter with your accomplishments as opposed to the "tried and not-so true" path that you have been on for far too long.

Before we enter 2010, we should center our energy and sever the ties that habitually bind us, preventing us from being all that we are supposed to be, all that we were designed to be and all that we were purposed to be.

Before we enter 2010, we should perform a front-end alignment with our hearts and our minds so that the rest of our bodies will assume the position so that we can forge STRAIGHT ahead.

GOD does indeed answer Prayers. Sometimes HIS answer is just not what we want to hear. But as Mother always advised me, "don't turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to what is right in front of you, Corey. When people reveal to you who they REALLY are, believe them."

That's my Momma!

I speak from experience when I say that its, "Time To Let Go."

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

"Calm to Chaos"

"In Spite of Everything" that is coming and going on in your personal and professional lives, there will always be the one constant source that remains the same every day of your Life for the rest of your days.

Without fail, the greatest sense of joy is knowing that someone has invested and deposited within YOU, a guarantee that you will indeed weather the storms, even as the world around you appears to be collapsing.

The foundation that you stand upon allows you to build upon the "guarantee" that you are able to derive from the interest off of the deposits that were made on your behalf. And you don't even have to touch the principle in the process.

The Spirit of the LORD shall ALWAYS bring, "Calm to Chaos."

Amen.

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

"Change the Plans for a Better Situation"

Ah, adversity would have you believe that your efforts are in vain and that victory has already been obtained, by someONE or someTHING else, other than you.

But deception ain't fooling no-body!

You weren't born to-morrow!

Everything that is true might not have been your truth, but that is why it is time to change the plans and refocus on the destination because the route has been altered to make room for the truth to lead the way for the path that is front and center in your Life.

My Momma told me as a young lad, that she "used to complain about her shoes, until she saw the man with no feet." Needless to say, I never complained about MY shoes ever again. And although I have not had the easiest path in Life in which to travel, it was and is mine for me to make the absolute best of.

I accept and appreciate what I have and focus not, on what I do not have. If it is within my possession, it was meant to be and the timing of such offers much, by way of confirmation.

Reminiscent of some of the greatest athletes that could, at the drop of a dime, change course of action or direction, alter their shots and do what they needed to do for the "team."

As of late, you constantly hear people habitually hollering "Team this" & "Team that," but I do not hear any of the aforementioned hollering about "Team Happy," "Team Jesus," "Team Smile," "Team Victory," "Team GOD," "Team Make It Happen," "Team Daddy," "Team Mommy," "Team Family," "Team Respect," "Team Honor," "Team Honest," "Team Faith," "Team Humble," "Team Forgiveness" nor "Team Love."

I am permanently inspired to make a "Better Situation." I've changed my attire, my attitude and renewed my dedication.

I look forward without looking back, picked up all of the pieces and even taking in some of the slack.

Now everything's fitting, tailor made to my specifications. All because I "Changed My Plans for a Better Situation."

I Love me!

Do you Love you?

Love yourself enough to "Change Your Plans for a Better Situation."

Prove it to yourself by joining or creating a "Team" that speaks to and about how you can "Change Your Plans for a Better Situation."

"Team Corey" and "Team All the Best, All the Time" will be rooting for you and your "Team."

Start off by creating and living up to your own expectations. Then and only then will you be able to "Change the Plans for a Better Situation."

Let's GO!!!

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 Space In Between"

There is always a perceived void in the lives of the people that are consciously working on making themselves "better."

You see "better" is not where the haters want you to be, let alone you thinking about making yourself.

For the purposes of visual illustration, the use of the word "perceived" was 100% intentional. In order for the "crabs in the barrel" theory to take shape and form, the haters need to create a perception that you will ultimately buy into, such as the "perceived" void.

For the people that are conscious about making themselves better, "shame on their genuine thoughts because as 'head-hater,' it is my job to cause confusion so that you will fill that "perceived" void with the likes of me."

The word is out. The secret has been revealed. There is no "void!" What you see and sometimes don't see is the growth that you have yet to realize. Whenever something is brewing on the inside, it has a tendency to shine forth on the outside and since your eyes have yet to bare witness as you are becoming acclimated to your new surroundings, it is still transparently clear on the outside looking in that "better" is indeed within your grasp.

It is impeccably amazing to see the gravitational pull that you garner when people become drawn to that visual illustration of what "better" actually looks like.

Even the haters are drawn in, hence the outward display of affection similar to a pack of hyena's as they devour the remains of the carcass that they stole from the one that actually captured the prey.

There is no void! Perception is not reality. Otherwise it would be called so. The "perceived" void was an illusion that was not your reality!

Your path is directly in front of you. The space to your left, the space to your right, in addition to the space behind you are represented in the form of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

I said there is no void! THEY are "The Space In Between."

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 Changed My Life"

I was explaining to my children how I was there and what I did when they were born. The look of amazement that was upon their faces as I described that scene, what was going on, what Daddy did and how it all unfolded. I could easily end the Blog right here and let the thoughts marinate.

But, to leave it there, would mean that I would never arrive, here. And since here is where I need to be, there is where I am glad that I was.

As the events of your Life unfold, they start to reveal layers from within as if someone has just pulled you inside out.

Sometimes we do not like what we see and refuse to believe that it is actually US, contrary to DNA's accuracy of 99.99%. We simply need MORE proof (Pause for Effect).

Transparency is constantly providing me grander levels of innocence, only after years of hiding behind the walls of "not so transparent guilt." If you're not careful, the devil will allow those very walls to become "your norm" while "GOD's norm" is left on the outside looking in.

I told you that as the events of your Life unfold, they start to reveal layers from within. It is time to take ownership of that image that is reflecting right back at you. Since DNA does not lie, you need to pull that situation inside out and allow "GOD's norm" to be the "New norm" by tearing down those walls.

Every brick of that wall represents something that has or continues to hold you back in life: lies, cheating, low self-esteem, no self-esteem, verbal abuse, physical abuse, low education, no education, fear of education, fear itself, no sense of self, lack of direction, yearning for protection and afraid of that reflection...

I told you that transparency has provided me grander levels of innocence. I need not hide behind a facade or an image. I am made in HIS image, hence the grander philosophical approach that is carried out through daily prayer and application.

Witnessing the birth of my children was THAT event in my Life that unfolded and pulled me inside out. The look of amazement upon their curious little faces reflected the innocence and amazement that was on my face as I witnessed each of them take their very first breath.

In order for me be here, thank GOD that I was there, "It Changed My Life."

GOD is the BEST!

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

"Rx Faith"

It is this time of year that the Faithful are vastly aware of and truly celebrate the existence by recognizing the birth of Jesus.

It is also this time of year that gives the mean-spirited a podium in which to exacerbate and spew their venomous antics, both verbal and physical in nature, in a feeble attempt to upstage the REAL "Reason for the Season."

You see it was never about the marketing campaigns and whether or not said company is "in the black" or "in the red." It has and always will be about what is right WITH the world, even when we are wrong TO the world.

I acknowledge the fact that meanness exists and that said meanness is perpetrated not BY people, but THROUGH people, by something that has infiltrated their mind, their better judgment, their common sense and their "I know better than that."

You see when things are out of order, chaotic, uneven and not balanced, it is because we are not taking the right dose.

We need to get back in "Spiritual Shape" if we are to compete in this "Spiritual Triathlon" of living, Loving and giving.

In talking to a physical fitness trainer, I learned some important attributes about myself that I needed to know in order to get my body in better shape so that I may compete in this "Spiritual Triathlon."

In talking to GOD, I learned some Life altering attributes about myself that I needed to know in order to get my MIND in the best possible shape so that I can compete in this "Spiritual Triathlon."

In talking to Jesus, HE in formed me that not only was I not taking the right dosage, but too often I was guilty of not even taking my medication in order to get my MIND, BODY and SOUL right and where it needs to be in order to compete in this "Spiritual Triathlon."

Therefore, the REAL "Reason for the Season," who Loves me even when I do not Love myself, took it upon HIMSELF, and for me, HE "Rx Faith."

Forever 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

"Escape Us"

Did you do more yesterday than what you did the day before yesterday?

Do you plan on doing more today than what you did yesterday and the day before yesterday?

How about tomorrow? What do you plan on doing then?

As each day passes, we get closer to what we were doing just yesterday and the day before yesterday.

If we accomplished nothing and plan on accomplishing nothing, then we will safely arrive at "Nothing's Destination."

And if we accomplished everything and plan on accomplishing everything, then we will safely arrive at "Everything's Destination."

Doing "more" does not necessarily mean nor equate to doing "SOMETHING," so for clarity's sake, please do not misconstrue "more" for "something." We could simply decide to do "BETTER" than what we did yesterday and the day before yesterday, all the while accomplishing what we set out to do in the first place.

I believe in seizing the opportunity to do all that we can so that in turn we can be all that we are supposed to be.

I do not believe that GOD created nor intended for us to DO "nothing," to BE "nothing" and to ACCOMPLISH "nothing."

If that were the case, we would have no "Purpose." And even if you REMOTELY know GOD, you should know that we are ALL "Purposed" for SOMETHING! Since HE makes no mistakes, why would GOD waste HIS time doing otherwise?

Therefore and henceforth, it is time to start talking to GOD. Someone near and dear once told me, "Corey, you should talk to GOD just like we talk to each other. There is no certain "protocol, process or procedure" that needs to take place. And you certainly do not need to be on a specific level in order to talk freely to the Father." I concur!

Now you know how to talk to GOD. You just open up your mouth and simply allow the words to come out.

It is time for us to seize the moment, take advantage of all of the opportunities that are before us and it is certainly high time for us to discover, realize, acknowledge and work on and towards our Life's "Purpose."

The center of it all is our "Purpose." The work that HE would have for us is HIS "Purpose."

And since GOD makes no mistakes, why would HE waste HIS time doing otherwise? The same holds true for all of us as well. Why waste your time if it is not working towards your "Purpose?"

After you begin talking to GOD, check back with yourself and ask yourself the same questions as before:

Did you do more yesterday than what you did the day before yesterday?

Do you plan on doing more today than what you did yesterday and the day before yesterday?

How about tomorrow? What do you plan on doing then?

We no longer have any reason to ever allow "Purpose and Passion" to ever "Escape Us."

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

"By Rope, Thread Or Shred of Faith?"

Dedicated to a Special Young Lady!

It is a daily hustle to keep your head above while you simultaneously tread that water. We're not promised another day and death is always just right around the corner.

Whatever is going on AROUND my world matters not because I have King Jesus going on WITHIN my world.

We are all hanging on to something to keep us going, moving, motivated, inspired, uplifted and energized.

It is WHAT we are holding on to that determines the length of time that we can continue to hold on and the strength that is required in order for us to MAINTAIN that much needed firm grip.

I do not know what that "rope" is made of, but it will eventually wither and ultimately give way no matter how strong and long you can hold on.

I am not too sure about that "thread" that is too weak to support its own, let alone "my" own in addition to.

But that "shred"...that little "Shred of Faith" is ALL that I need in order to weather the storm and Michael Phelps that same water that is attempting to catch me in its rip tide, pull me back out to sea and forever cast me away to never.

I do not know WHAT your problems in Life may be, but rest assured they are not unique. SomeONE, someWHERE has already encountered them, figured them out, defeated them and sent them packing and on their way.

That is what a "Shred of Faith" will do for you. Exactly what absolutely everything else cannot do for you.

Let go of that "rope!"

Forget about that "thread!"

It is time to latch on to that "shred!"

"By Rope, Thread Or Shred of Faith," we all hanging on to something to keep us going, moving, motivated, inspired, uplifted and energized.

It is WHAT we are holding on to that winds up making all of the lasting determination and difference WITHIN our lives.

From this day forward, will you be holding on "By Rope, Thread Or Shred of Faith?"

Now 100% rhetorical, Smile and 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

"Primary Spot"

With passion seeping through my pores, my soul becomes dehydrated as I implore my ability to muster up more than enough nerve to make a difference in all that I know, whom I know and all that I come in contact with.

I must leave this in better condition than what I found it to be in when it birthed my poverty-stricken presence into existence.

Whether it is through the rearing of my children or my hands on contributions, I must make more deposits than withdrawals in order to better my odds of doing better than just, "breaking even."

Efforts to never be in vain, when left in plain sight, for others to see, pick up and carry on to the sheer delight of everything that is right and the green with envy, to all that consider me an enemy.

What I am and who I am pale in contrast and comparison to what and who I am well on my way to being. I see me for who and what I am as I courageously make alterations and conduct modifications so that I may exquisitely fit the specifications of what I am to be.

We fail to understand because we do not feel what those who comprehend already understand. So, I extend my hand so that you can be the "comprehension" and I will be the "understanding" as we fly through the turbulent times with the knowledge of our inevitable safe landing.

None will have been for naught, forgiveness does not mean forgot, but right next to me, I will continue to hold, your "Primary Spot."

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 Sweet Mother"

Had it not been for my Mother, my credentials could have very well been my rap sheet.

Not just ANY Mother, but a GOOD Mother. A good Momma! One so good that I soon realized that a great number of my friends were ACTUALLY coming to see MY Mother and not me because she was better than the one that they had.

No bruised ego from me however. I had what they wanted and I was privileged and honored to already call her Mom. Funny how her title became her nickname for all of those friends of mine that dropped by, out of the blue, just to see "me."

She would feed you when there was nothing to eat.

Provide answers without having to even hear the questions.

What a lucky young man I was to have had the Mother that I did. In all actuality, what a lucky "young" man I still am to have the Mother that I did.

You see, I never seem to run out of memories of Mother. I keep happening upon things that she made happen for me. I guess that's where I get it from. This innate ability to just "do it" and "make it happen."

December 3, my Life changed forever. But because my Mother first introduced me to the LORD, it simultaneously changed for the better as I drew closer to HIM in the longing absence of "her."

It has not been a walk in the park and "easy" has never described any aspects of my Life. But, "possible" describes "all" aspects of my Life.

No matter how "impossible" things may appear, the reality is GOD's unlimited possibilities are inevitable when you give it to HIM, the same way that I did, back on December 3.

I still cry, but I'm now comforted.

I still and will always miss her, but GOD keeps reminding me that she's right there with HIM now.

And since what HE can do will always be what's best for me and you, I humbly step aside in the same manner that I did whenever the doorbell rang and I heard a familiar voice asking, "is Corey home?"

No bruised ego from me however. I was privileged and honored to already call her Mom, "My Sweet 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

"The Better Part of Me"

I was born at 12:01am on 12/1. And 2 years ago today I would only have my Mother for 2 more days. How does the saying go? "If I knew then, what I know now..."

I feel good today! Although it has indeed been difficult, GOD has been good to me.

GOD has been wonderful to me.

GOD has been merciful to me.

I no longer "Hide My Tears" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2009/11/hide-my-tears.html) because GOD has ever so delicately taken the task of wiping them from my face as HE embraces me whenever my heart starts to feel a little empty.

All of the exquisitely well crafted words of the English language still fail in their feeble attempts to describe, illustrate or paint the picture of what GOD has and continues to do for me.

Every Blog that I write...it's GOD!

Every Blessing that I have...it's GOD!

In the midst of all that I have lost, everything that I STILL have...it's GOD!

My wonderful family and precious children...it's GOD!

Every tear that I shed, affords HIM the opportunity to wipe them away... because it's GOD!

I Love you Mom! GOD knows that I Love you!

You did a wonderfully impeccable job, but it's ok now. GOD's got it from here!

Every birthday just draws me closer to seeing you again. So, I will celebrate as if you called me this morning at 12:01am like you always did!

And please do not be confused in the GOD in me that you see. It is because of HIM, that reveals the "The Better Part of Me."

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

"Hide My Tears"

My tears were replaced with frustration, animosity and anger since you've been gone. I survived a contentious divorce, maintained my Smile, all the while solidifying my most important job, that as Daddy.

Trying to figure out, "what part of the game is THIS?" I graduated college, got separated, lost my Mother, finalized my divorce and a whole host of other intangibles that have composed the highlight reels of the past 2-3 years of my Life.

Throughout my Life, I have lost so much! I have this impenetrable exterior that doubles as my force field against the objects thrown my way, the darts that are clearly aimed in my direction and resentment that comes in the form of fake smiles and well wishes.

I crave my Mother as if I am WITH child and EVERY grocery and convenient store within a 100 mile radius is completely sold out of the one item that will satisfy this craving of mine.

I have grown to trust the LORD like I have never trusted anyone or anything in my entire Life. "What are we doing today GOD?" I ask HIM. "Where shall I stand and how shall I position myself, to adequately receive the Blessings and Glory that you would have for me LORD?"

LORD, I feel too weak today, but I am getting up anyway because I know that you are waiting for me to put on my full armor of YOU before I step one foot out of my front door.

Dear GOD, I don't know how much longer you will have me on this journey, but with every tear that I shed, I will take two more steps.

My GOD, I don't know where my energy is, but I will start sprinting because I trust that you will meet me at the finish line.

I left work a little late and this traffic is going to make me late in picking up the kids in two different places, but I make every green light in the midst of a sea of red lights that are in front of me.

I don't know what I am going to cook the kids for dinner tonight, but after their meal, they tell me "thank you Daddy. That was a "Fantastic Dinner" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2009/09/fantastic-dinner.html)!

"What are we doing today GOD?" It matters not, because I trust YOU with all that I am.

I Love you Mother. I miss you so much. If people only knew what I have been through the last 2 -3 years of my Life, they would simply wonder why I am not crazy. I give it ALL to my LORD and Savior. For had it not been for HIM, I would be resting with you.

My desk at work, in the restroom, during meetings, sitting in the Congregation, at a restaurant, at my favorite coffee place, as I write my Blogs, work on my book, drive in my truck, take a shower, get dressed, eat at my dinner table, watching a show on TV, in front of my kids...I cannot and no longer have the desire to do anything, to "Hide My Tears."

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

"Doubt"

When "Doubt" no longer has any ambiguity, we no longer hold ourselves hostage in fear of it.

It is through the transparency of ALL of our words and actions that we can truly find and be at peace within our lives and the people that wish to be a part of our lives.

"Doubt" used to be a high ranking official in my Life. That is until I demoted it to "Private First Class," dishonorably discharging and giving "Doubt" its final walking papers.

"Doubt" used to have a high credit score in my Life, back when I used to charge up fear, uncertainty, confusion, denial, cheating, misgivings and whatever else that could help me max out that egregious credit limit. That is until I cut up those superficial credit cards and refused to pay those exorbitant interest rates by simply "opting out."

My ability to talk freely of all that has previously hindered me has everything to do with my confessions of.

By confessing with my mouth, I have freed my mind, which no longer hinders my actions, thus paving a path down the road of righteousness that allows me to pace myself enough to be able to read and comprehend all of the signs along the way.

I said, "When "Doubt" no longer has any ambiguity, we no longer hold ourselves hostage in fear of it."

With everything that the LORD has promised, thus guaranteeing to me, there is none of it, in which I "Doubt."

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 Here"

Have you ever been on the receiving end a of proclamation that sort of reprimands you when it is exclaimed that, "you should've been there?!"

Personally, I know that I have been on that receiving end quite a few times. And some of those times, I must admit, was the biggest Blessing in disguise that I was NOT there and did INDEED "miss out." Some of those times I knew exactly what I was missing out on...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

Then there are those times when you know that you know that you should have INDEED, been present.

But it is not in the past that we dwell nor reside. It is in the now that we move forth, with pride pushed to the side.

For if it hinders you, it is only a matter of time before it beckons you to surrender to it.

Therefore, we right our wrongs, take mental notes as we progressively move along, so that we are not back in the same position, singing the same old song.

Some tend to think that Life is all about being "present." I too tend to agree, but there is nothing like a LIVE performance.

It is not just good to be present anymore. You need "To Be Here."

Wherever you were prior to today matters not. What matters most is that from this day forth, come hell or high water, you will do everything in your power, "To Be Here."

It is understood that you may not go back and check the "present" box for all of the times that you were absent...."Lesson Learned."

But the Glory is not in having the power to undo what you did or did not do. No, the Glory is in the ability to alter and change your mindset, coupled with the fact that you have been severely Blessed with the opportunity of a 2nd chance, to get it right this time around!

And THAT alone is far better than any "collective do-overs."

Since no one man or woman are perfect, I painstakingly cringe at the mere thought of being "one and done."

It is no longer good or even acceptable to just be marked "present." You now need..."To Be Here," so that you do not "miss out" on...ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING!

Do whatever it takes, "To Be Here."

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 A Good Place"

I am ALIVE today!

I feel GOOD today!

I may not be where I want to be, but I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

"A Philly strut and a GODLY swagger," my friend told me.

I have come such a long way in a relatively short period of time and ALONG the way this journey has indeed had its peaks and valleys.

I quiver at the notion that I could actually be on the perimeter of GOD's Grace and Mercy. But on the outside looking in is not where my feet are firmly planted. They have long since been uprooted and enjoy the comfort and warmth of what it feels like to be on the INSIDE of GOD's Grace and Mercy.

The same friend also informed me that "once a mind has been stretched, it can never go back to its original form." That explains why "old ways, things and people" no longer fit. Respectfully, they have been outgrown.

I look around and even though the faces are not yet familiar, the presence of the Spirit IS. My comfort is not in the visual of familiarity, it is within the feeling of. I no longer need to SEE you, I just need to FEEL you (Love and My Mother).

Where I have been, what I have been through, what my eyes have seen and what my soul has experienced are all nothing short of wonderful for ALL that has been shown to me as I continue to "Grow THROUGH" my much needed "Growth SPURT."

Yes! I am ALIVE today!

Yes! I feel GOOD today!

And I am ever grateful for WHERE I am, WHAT I have, WHO I have it with and where it SHALL take me NEXT.

Tell yourself, "I am ALIVE today!"

Tell yourself, "I feel GOOD today!"

Tell yourself, "I may not be where I want to be, but I am exactly where I am supposed to be!"

Tell yourself, "I am, "In A Good Place.""

Another friend of mine told me that I look like I am "In A Good Place." It is nice to know that I now look, exactly how I feel.

I am indeed, "In A Good Place."

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

"Already Won"

I haven't even LACED up my sneaks yet and I have "Already Won."

I haven't even STARTED the ignition yet and I have "Already Won."

I haven't even CROSSED the finish line yet and I have "Already Won."

You see, I,I,I, just cannot lose! Imagine the confident swagger that permeates my being without raising a single boastful finger.

How can I NOT Smile knowing that I have "Already Won?"

How can I NOT laugh at the pettiness that does not even KNOW that I have "Already Won?"

Why would I even ENTERTAIN joining a franchise that does not pride itself on VICTORY?

Why would you even ATTEMPT to offer me something that you already know does not compare to the fact that I have "Already Won?"

Why would I even contemplate ACCEPTING what you have to offer knowing that you do not hold the keys to MY victory because I have, "Already Won?"

You see when I chose HIM, I knew that HE was solely responsible for rendering the decision as to when it is all said and done. It is my LORD and Savior that decided long ago, that I have "Already Won."

Not me.

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

"Expectations"

I believe that we shy away from them so as to avoid any commitment to them at all.

I mean, you cannot miss what you do not have, right?

But I vehemently beg to differ.

I get my annual flu shots with the "Expectation" that I will not get the flu. Now I do realize that there is a very real possibility that I can still contract the flu, but "Expectations" allows me to proactively prepare for the very real reason that I may NOT get the flu.

Whenever Report Card season rolls around, much to the chagrin of some students, parents are hopeful that all of their hard work and dedication to their children's education has paid off and therefore have the "Expectation" that they will be in perpetual congratulatory mode as they celebrate their childs accomplishments. Yet it is "Expectations" that cause us to shout with joy when "Expectations" have been met or to dole out punishment when "Expectations" have not been met, as we put our John Hancock's on said Report Cards.

Within my Congregation, at any moments notice, you can witness the athletic abilities of members sprinting around or your eyes can actually SEE the Holy Ghost in the ones that have been GENUINELY touched by the Spirit. You see we have "Expectations" OF the LORD, when we are obedient TO the LORD and that is totally acceptable.

But when those "Expectations" rest squarely on OUR shoulders, we fast forward so that we can reminisce to a time when they did NOT rest squarely on our shoulders.

"Expectations" are a funny thing. I firmly believe that should you fail to create none, you can expect just THAT in return.

Hey, you cannot miss what you do not have, right?

But when you CREATE "Expectations," you are holding yourself accountable for meeting them, working at their level or exceeding them. Probably in the same capacity that your employer rates your work performance on an annual basis.

If you want to play it safe and never be disappointed, have zero "Expectations" and allow people to come in and out of your Life as THEY see fit.

But if you want to establish a bar and level of commitment, then CREATE "Expectations" holding yourself and the people in "YOUR Life" accountable, making sure that conduct in a manner that is not responsible is not acceptable.

I did say "YOUR" Life...

The refusal OF them invokes a defense mechanism that speaks specifically to the denial of responsibility TO them, since I am not accountable FOR them.

Thank GOD that my Mother had "Expectations" of me. She EXPECTED me to be a decent human being, a good man and a wonderful father. She created "Expectations," established a bar and continued to raise it the closer that I got to manhood, in preparation for me to one day hold myself both accountable and responsible for everything that has anything to do with "MY Life."

I will always have "Expectations" of the people that are within my Life with the caveat that my wisdom is fully aware of the fact that all of my "Expectations" will not be met all of the time.

But it is better to have SOMETHING to work towards as opposed to having NOTHING to celebrate when "Expectations" have been met. But then again, you can't celebrate or miss what you do not have, right? You cannot acknowledge the accomplishments that you refuse to be held accountable TO and responsible FOR by way of not creating "Expectations."

Whether resting squarely on my shoulders or not, with open arms wide, in "MY Life," I welcome "Expectations."

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

"Free"

I have not been perfect in my Life.

But I stand here.

I have made numerous mistakes, both knowingly and unknowingly.

But I stand here, broken, scarred, healed, replenished, fulfilled, Blessed, admonished, admired, bare, focused and relentless in my pursuit to seek the best, be the best and give of me the absolute best!

Times throughout my Life, I did not know that I would be here, but someONE, someWHERE, Prayed for me to be there and HERE, is where I stand.

I have not been perfect in my Life.

But I stand here.

I have had my heart broken, I admit to breaking some hearts and I acknowledge the misgivings of misguided selfish thoughts that now require me to give OF my heart on this straight and narrow path of selflessness.

I have not been perfect in my Life.

But I stand here.

I forgive those before I ask to be forgiven. And since Love is the engine, I prefer to be driven.

I have not been perfect in my Life.

But I stand here.

I will apologize before being apologized to. For it is nothing but Love that will see me and get me through.

I have not been perfect in my Life.

But I stand here.

I have Faith to what is blind to the naked eye as I bare witness to everything that I trusted was already there.

I forever aspire to permanently inspire through my hearts soul & sole desire.

I have not been perfect in my Life.

But I stand here, to make amends, welcome new and revisit old friends, buck the system, creating new trends.

Hate cannot sell me, what I refuse to buy. I stand here, ready to live my Life before it is time for me to die.

Whatever your thoughts are or pertaining to me, I stand here before you, completely and unabashedly, "Free."

It is time to "Free" yourself!

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 Bigger Than That"

Once upon a time I remember being bullied as a young boy. These two particular people were always pushing me around when they were in each others company. Individually, they left me alone, but collectively, they were just bullies.

To this day and needless to say, I have ZERO patience and tolerance for bullies of ANY type.

When you think of bullying, it is not just relative to one physical, imposing stature compared to a less intimidating stature. Bullying comes in many different forms and consists of many different methods.

Some people bully because they have a higher education than others.

Some people bully because their pockets are deeper than others.

Some people bully because they are hurt or hurting, yet refuse to let it go because they need to feel vindicated.

Some people bully because they are better versed in a particular subject or on a specific subject matter.

Some people bully because they have broader horizons than the next person.

Some people bully because they are more seasoned than others.

Some people bully because they think they are tough.

Some people bully because they are vastly aware of their minuscule existence and need to tear YOU down just so that they can microscopically measure up.

But what I have come to realize is the fact that a bully is a bully, plain and simple. They are indeed "plain and simple."

The next time someone attempts to bully you, tell them to pick on somebody your own size: "I'm Bigger Than That."

Their rather "plain and simple" mentality will probably cause them to think they you are giving them kudos relative to their size in comparison to yours.

But in all actuality, your "Blessed and Loving" Spirit will admit to them that they are too small and insignificant to measure up to the biggest bodyguard that is within you.

It is not YOU that is too small compared to them. It is THEM that is too small in comparison to the GOD that lives within YOU!

Bullies SHOULD be afraid of the bullied. So, as you speak softly and carry your big stick, know that "You're Bigger Than That."

Remember: "plain and simple" divided by "Blessed and Loving" = "I'm Bigger Than That."

Be Blessed Today!!!

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

"Determined to Love"

In my Lifetime, I have decided, by way of a conscious DECISION, that I am "Determined to Love" with all of my unconditional heart, until this Lifetime I do depart.

There are a lot of things in my Life that I am determined to do.

I am determined to be a good son.

I am determined to be a good brother.

I am determined to be a good father.

I am determined to be a good friend.

I am determined to be a good person.

I am determined to be a good man.

I am determined to one day be a good HUSBAND.

And in order for me to be all of the above, Corey, I am "Determined to 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

"Fix What You Break"

Once upon a time as a young lad, I remember the philosophy upon entering an establishment: "if you break it, you just bought it."

The sheer thought of having someone other than me paying for something that they could not use because I broke it and rendered it temporarily or permanently useless, terrified me.

I SAID, "The sheer thought of having someone other than me paying for something that they could not use because I broke it and rendered it temporarily or permanently useless, terrified me."

Obviously, I am not just referring to the physical items that decorate an establishment. I am also talking about the physical items that decorate GOD's establishment.

You see, I knew that breaking something was going to cost someone else, even though I was the perpetrator that caused the damage to begin with.

I was too afraid to break something and promptly obeyed Mother every time she instructed me, "don't touch! I cannot afford to replace anything in here." And she trusted me to do just that.

People browse through GOD's establishments touching any and everything that they can get their little hands on, totally oblivious and apathetic to the harm that they will cause, the cost that will befall someone else and the irreparable damage that they could truly care less about.

From establishment to establishment, their presence has an outstanding tab that they have zero intentions on ever repaying.

"If you break it, you just bought it." Not them!

If you can only afford to browse then browse through your own physical items so as not to damage the physical items that belong to others. You have absolutely no claim to something that belongs to someone else. So, "don't touch! You cannot afford to replace anything in here." That's what my Momma would say. And I trusted her when she said just that.

Now as an adult, I shop where I can afford to buy, but just in case, I carry my glue and a pocket full of forgiveness.

So, as you continue to browse through GOD and Life's establishments, hold yourself and be accountable for all of the things that you break (Hearts, Relationships, Marriages, Families, Homes and Friendships). And if it is not something that you can purchase after you have already broken it, then you must and should, "Fix What You Break."

I am done now. Feel free to use my crazy glue and I'll let you have some of this forgiveness in my pockets. Reparations are in order. Take what was once thought to be irreparably damaged, whether it is a physical item or one of GOD's items and repair it as if it belongs to you.

"If you break it, you just bought it."

Maintain that mentality so that you can process and handle GOD and Life's physical items as you would those in your favorite establishment.

If you can't afford to fix it, then don't break it! But, if you do break it, then "Fix What You Break."

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

"Abundance of Love"

You know the more that I talk to people, the more I begin to realize that we are ALL in need of Prayer, that is preceded and succeeded by an "Abundance of Love."

SomeONE, someWHERE is growing through someTHING, right now. An infiltration of one's mind that becomes a manifestation of one's body and a subsequent condemnation of one's Spirit. Yeah, an "Abundance of Love" is more than needed right about now.

When you see me, this is what Love looks like.

When you meet me, I already told you that "My Name IS Love" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2009/10/my-name-is-love.html).

Therefore, you are shaking the hand OF Love and embracing the notion that Love is indeed alive and well.

I strictly operate under the philosophy of an "Abundance of Love," by doing "All the Best, All the Time" and working diligently to create and sustain an atmosphere and environment that is conducive to an "Abundance of Love."

Anything less than is blasphemy because GOD is Love. My Father has expectations of HIS son and who am I to disappoint?

In the absence of, I will mark Love present.

In the darkness of, I will turn on Love's light.

If never spoken of, I will speak of Love.

When sick of Love, I will Pray for its health.

When too poor to Love, I will Pray for its wealth.

Too vengeful of, I ask forgiveness to overwhelm.

When too fearful of, courageousness abound.

When untrusting of, I will fall as if someone is going to catch me.

When hiding from, I will blindly reveal myself.

When I hear from, I will respond.

These are my promises to Love.
On behalf of Love.
Because of Love.

Embody my body with an "Abundance of 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

"How Much Do You REALLY Weigh?"

Having managed to remove the clutter and chaos from your Life is kind of synonymous with having your vision 100% restored. While we thumb our way around in the dark, we are blind to the fact that our visibility has decreased, is diminished and very poor.

We stay masked behind the cloudiness of our situations so much so that we mistake our cloudy days for sunshine, that is until the REAL sunshine emerges, forcing us to confess to the darkness that it is not the true light, our illuminated paths.

We have become accustomed to carrying around unnecessary baggage and clutter, hoarding it as if it will one day amass some or any type of monetary value, that will ultimately sustain us for the rest of our days and beyond. We carry it as if it is representative of our Salvation.

If we are not paying close attention, we will allow people to ride piggyback, thus making us carry the WEIGHT of ourselves in addition to their own WEIGHT.

So, we begin to take inventory, looking at all of the things that surround us, hold us back, keep us and WEIGH us down. It is either part of the solution or it is part of the problem. If it is not part of the solution, then by default, it must be part of the problem.

We begin to sever ties by way of our thought processes, our logic and rationale, all of which was with us as we were thumbing through the dark. Had it not been for our poor and diminished visibility...

And now that you have released your dead WEIGHT, removed the clutter and the chaos, restored your visibility to no less than 100%, "How Much Do You REALLY Weigh?"

I Pray that you find yourself to be in better health and shape than what you initially thought.

The scale isn't that scary afterall now, is it?

GOD Bless You Today!

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 By Yourself"

I learned an all too important, in your face, valuable lesson very recently. You know my Mother used to constantly remind me that "you can lead a horse to water Corey, but you cannot make him drink."

You cannot teach someone that refuses to be taught.

You will not be heard if someone refuses to listen.

You cannot progress with someone that is content with their stagnancy.

Nothing will get "done" if people refuse to "do."

I am of the firm opinion that helping others is cool, when and where you can, but you cannot help someone more than they are willing to help themselves.

Sometimes people require you to "help them in order for you to help them," yet they do not understand nor do they appreciate the help that you have already given them. They just look for you to do more than what you have already done and would have you believe that all of your help and effort is required in order to "motivate" them to do what they should already be doing. Simply put, they do what they do best, they make excuses.

You will never be able to "take the reigns of someone's brain, implement their joy while replacing their pain." They are exactly where they want to be, until they specifically decide otherwise.

You were so right Momma! "You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make him drink."

I learned an all too important, in your face, valuable lesson very recently.

Do not bring yourself down in order to lift up someone else, because you can do bad, "All By Yourself."

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 Name IS Love"

Have you ever met someone that just abundantly exceeded your every expectation?

Have you ever been introDUCED to something that just OVERWHELMINGLY surpassed any and ALL of your expectations, perceived, fathomed and even realized?

WOW, I can remember such a time, such a thing at such a place that beckons my recollection to accurately recall every intricate detail that I might have otherwise absentmindedly forgot about. But not this time.

You could be in tune with the beat, have no rhythm at all and still allow it to speak to your soul, through your whole and never miss a step, in the name of.

You could be blind to the fact, even when your heart KNOWS the facts, all the while you're still questioning its authenticity, the reason why its here and if it has the right address. But it does.

You might question its directions or the accuracy of, but its navigational system is on par and can guide you around meaningless distractions, construction, tolls, bottlenecks and all of the stop and go. And it will.

You can attempt to tell it what to do as it laughs right back at you and BOLDLY declares: "YOU'RE NOT THE BOSS OF ME!"

I HAVE met such a person. I WAS formally introDUCED to SUCH a thing.

And at that very moment, is when I heard: ""My Name is Love," pleased to meet you, Corey."

Corey, Love, Corey, Love, Corey, Love, Corey IS Love,

"My Name IS Love"

What's YOUR name?

_______, Love, _______, Love, _______, Love, _______ IS Love,

IntroDUCE yourself to someone today. It could be the ONLY encounter that they EVER have with Love.

"My Name IS Love!" Pleased to meet you today!

Smile.

"My Name IS 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

"The Source for Our Resources"

I personally believe in being a Blessing to others and in turn GOD will be a bigger Blessing to you. But I do not believe that GOD's intent is for you to "burn your candles at both ends" (Mother quote). Part of the magnificent Blessing is the fact that you do not have to do anything and everything all by yourself. That is exactly why GOD is GOD all by HIMSELF.

It is nice to "think" that we are "helping" GOD, but let's keep things in perspective, HE does not need our help. In all actuality, HE "IS" our help!

When it comes to assisting and helping out others, we find ourselves in perpetual "Do For Others Mode." Although I think that it is completely admirable, it is not feasible to do for and Love others more than we do for and Love ourselves. We wind up being a disservice to the people that we "think" we are helping and more importantly, a disservice to ourselves.

Help YOU as much as you help the next person. Do for YOU as much as you do for others. Love YOURSELF just as much as you LOVE someone else. When you do, you will probably realize that you do not Love them afterall. Marinate on that thought for a minute...

Do not deplete your resources trying to replenish the resources of others...remember, GOD is GOD all by HIMSELF. HE "IS" our help and "The Source for Our Resources."

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

"2 Years and 300 Blogs Later"

My Mother always liked numbers. She could create an entire story surrounding numbers in the same capacity that I draw on personal and random inspiration to author each one of my Blogs. So, I know that she would be pleased that "2 Years and 300 Blogs Later," I am adding to and not attempting to subtract from a Blessing that is higher than I can count, farther than I can see and bigger than I will ever be.

I miss my Mother something terrible, but I know that each day that I think of her draws me closer to her wonderful memory and all that she has ever and continues to mean to my Life. I keep her legacy alive through my children and conduct myself as if she's watching over me and everything that I'm doing. Truth be told and in my heart, I know that she is. And if you read but a single Blog, you know beyond a shadow of doubt that I truly LOVE MY MOTHER!

Two years ago today, on October 22, 2007, I decided to author my first 2 Blog's titled: "IT is What IT is, Right?" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2007/10/its-hard-to-remain-optimistically.html) and "Speaking Into Existence" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2007/10/speaking-into-existence.html). Little did I know then that what started off as something kind of random, has since taken on a Life form all it's own. I say "kind of random" because even though I did not know what the next 2 years would offer me by way of "All the Best, All the Time," GOD sure enough did! I have learned that by keeping HIM first in everything that I do, means that I cannot lose in anything that I choose.

I am honored, humbled, overjoyed and often brought to tears knowing that GOD has so chosen me to do what I am most passionate about, bringing about a positive impact to the lives of a lot of people, some of which I have never even laid eyes upon. But that part matters not and what matters most is the fact that I have made a conscious decision to make myself available to GOD to do what HE would have me to do and to serve my Life Purpose as such.

Many years ago, it was my Mother that first introduced me to writing, specifically poetry. I used writing as an outlet after the death of my little brother over 25 years ago. And throughout the years, I have chosen to continue down a path, not necessarily of least resistance, but down a path that is favorable and compatible with my heart. As a man that is no longer AFRAID, I am free to "speak the truth and shame the devil," as my Mother used to say. This is me and my journey and I have so chosen to avail myself as that conduit representing change that first starts with me.

Sometimes, the feedback that I receive from my Blogs is one of astonishment that I would be so courageous to bare myself in transparent fashion for whomever to read, get to know, but most importantly, to learn from. But, one thing is for certain and that is when GOD is making changes on the inside, it would behoove you to get out of the way peripherally so that change can take root and forge ahead with all of GOD's plans. And that is why I write my Blogs. I no longer ignore the fact that something and/or someone was trying to get my attention because I had work to do. And when their attempts failed, ignoring the inevitable was not acceptable and anything else would have been negligent.

Throughout this journey, I have learned a lot about myself. And if I never write another Blog, I can walk away knowing that "2 Years and 300 Blogs Later," I know who and what Corey is, who and what Corey is about and what Corey is supposed to be doing, not in accordance with what Corey wants, but in accord with what needs to be done, in a passionate nature and with all of my heart.

I give all of the Honor, Glory and Praise to My LORD and Savior and to the Heavenly Father GOD. I thank my Mother for all of her wonderful insight, wisdom and knowledge that keeps my insatiable soul abundantly satisfied. I thank my Father for the relationship that we have maintained in my Mother's absence. I ADORE my children for showing me whats important and keeping me honest, hard-working and FOCUSED (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2009/09/most-important-things-first.html)! I appreciate everyone that has ever read all, some or even just one of the 300 Blogs that I have authored over the last couple of years in addition to sharing them with others after feeling compelled to share in a Blessing that was MEANT to be passed on.

My Mother would be so pleased.

"So, how many more Blogs are you going to write Corey?" she would ask.

"What have you learned from this Life altering experience?" she would wonder.

"I see the change in you my Son," she would exclaim.

I know that my Mother would be so pleased.

Whether 300 more or only just one, I cannot and will not stop what I'm doing until my job is "Well Done" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2008/02/well-done.html).

I will never stop running this race, until I see my Mother's face as I'm crossing the finish line.

I forever ASpire to permanently INspire!

I celebrate YOU Mother!

I Love YOU Mother!

All that you have ever given TO me is all that I will surrender OF me. I will not take it with me because it was not selfishly meant to be retained BY me. There will be no "U-Haul" (http://allthebestallthetime.blogspot.com/2008/01/u-haul.html).

As I celebrate this wonderful milestone on the Anniversary of “All the Best, All the Time,” I have planted 300 seeds of inspiration over 24 months of meditation that was provided by 1: my Mother's Lifetime of preparation.

I think that my Mother would be pleased with those numbers. She’s probably telling the story right now.

It's called "2 Years and 300 Blogs Later."

I Love You Mom!

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

"Doing My Best In Order To Be My Best"

In order for me to appreciate living and being right, I am "growing" through the process of redemption by admitting and acknowledging all of the times in which I was wrong.

It matters not and the statute of limitations never expire when redemption is at hand and forgiveness lies within those very palms.

If I WANT the best, then I am compelled to DO the best, all the while BEING my best. I shall attract the same energy that I put forth and will RECEIVE it in the same manner that I GIVE it, expectedly so.

I am just "Doing My Best In Order To Be My Best."

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

"Prayer Changes Everything"

Before my feet even hit the ground in the morning...

Throughout the day as I duck and dodge the darts and projectiles that are aimed in my direction...

Before I close my eyes to rejuvenate my body for another 24...

Whenever I need to renew my patience...

In wholehearted acceptance that there is always room for improvement...

To Love, protect and progress, without the need to ever settle for less...

When I MISS my Mother to the point that I want to JOIN my Mother...

When I could have sworn that I JUST paid all of my bills this month...

For all that I go through on a daily basis, I know that...

For all that YOU may go through on a daily basis, know that...

In everything that I do and on everyday that I do it, I "am" because HE "is." Through HIS Grace and Mercy, my knowledge and understanding, which has nothing to do with "who" I am, but everything and more to do with "what" HE is in the big scheme of things and the starring role that HE plays in my Life.

The ability to raise and parent children without a User's Guide or an Instruction Manual...

Being able to fight and stave off addiction, if for no one else but for the ones that Love you...

Forgiving the perpetrators of deceit, hurt and pain because you know that...

Making a way out of no way and trusting when you don't even have a say...

..."Prayer Changes Everything."

But do not take Corey's word for it. It is HIS word that will make all of the difference when you see about it for yourself.

Not some,
Not a little,
Not a few,
Not a couple,
Not just small,
Not only big, but...Prayer.

"Prayer Changes Everything"

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

"Deposit Slips"

By the time I depart this Lifetime, I will have imparted all of my wisdom and knowledge, paying it forward, by returning it to where it belongs: to someone other than me.

Having depleted my Lifelong "experience" savings and rendering my undying Love and Support, I will completely empty me of all that is me and give of me until there is no more of me.

With each day, I grab and fill out what would have otherwise been a blank "Deposit Slip" and contribute to an account and a fund that will sustain itself, replenish in Spiritual wealth and maintain its physical health, with every contribution that I make.

With every day there is a new deposit.

With every day there is a different deposit.

But most importantly, with every day, there IS a deposit!

The next visit that you make to your financial institution, be sure to stock up on some "Deposit Slips" so that you can start making contributions to an account and a fund that will ultimately match your efforts: effort for effort.

At first you might not feel like you have ANYTHING to contribute or write on your "Deposit Slip."

But every day provides you SOMETHING in which to write on that "Deposit Slip."

You might not believe that the contributions of your "Deposit Slip" add up to that MUCH. But, what is "not that much" to you could be an abundance to others.

If someone performed an audit on you, what would it say about where and how you invest your time and energy? Would it reveal you making significant withdrawals or Life Lesson contributions via your "Deposit Slips?"

What we oft times fail to realize is that what we contribute will not only benefit us and sometimes not at all, but because we made contributions, someone somewhere will be able to make withdrawals that will subsequently afford them the opportunity to in turn fill out a "Deposit Slip," in a contributing fashion.

Well, I'm getting low, so I'm off to make a bank run. Does anybody need any "Deposit Slips?"

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

"Today"

"Today" has afforded me what I was too poor, too broke, too naïve, too foolish, too immature, too greedy, too stagnant and too ill-advised to afford just yesterday.

"Today" has afforded me the brand new opportunity to turn all of my negatives into positives and all of my weaknesses into strengths as I reflect on yesterdays pain and convert it to "Today's" gain.

Within a span of 24 hours I have managed to awaken a Spirit within the Spirit to claim the inheritance that HE has already died for in order for me to stake a claim to.

What "Today" means to me was just unbeknownst to me in what amounts to 2 twelve hour time periods.

What a difference "Today" makes when you choose to pay attention to what you missed out on the day before.

To think that "Today" was not promised and could have easily avoided my presence by the process of simple mathematics.

Nothing shall compare and everything will pale in contrast and comparison to the man that I am "Today."

Therefore, as I strive to better myself in every way, I cannot wait until tomorrow, to see how I can better myself "Today."

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 Dearest Love"

When you Love someone, make sure that you Love them 100% of the time and that at no point in time do they ever feel the need to question whether or not you do Love them 100% of the time.

Do not be afraid to attach legs to your words so that he may Love her with his words AND actions and she may Love him with her words AND actions, simultaneously.

My Dearest Love, I have Loved you from the first moment of the first day that I first laid eyes upon your sweet soul. I knew what I didn't know and I may have tried to hide what I wasn't ready to show, but there was no mistaking the inevitable that was about to be revealed, albeit unwillingly, yet destiny fulfilled.

What "My Dearest Love" has always shown me has been nothing short of lovingly in every action that was ever illustrated for me to see.

Sight is at times blind, but seen through the spectacles of a Loving heart will allow you, better yet afford you, the ability to not only see, but bare witness to all that "Your Dearest Love" has in store for you.

The Love that "My Dearest Love" gave was a Love that "Her Dearest Love" never knew. It is hard to accept growth when Love reminds you that you never grew.

But as soon as you acknowledge the presence of stagnancy in your Life, you rid yourself of it and begin to fight like hell to keep it off of Love's premises forevermore.

Mother did not ever lie to me, especially when she said "the grass is never greener on the other side, Corey." I concur, 1,000,000% Mother, no less than!

"My Dearest Love," what I embody WITHIN this body is nothing but Love for "Her Dearest Love."

"My Dearest Love" never lied to me.

"My Dearest Love" always supported me.

"My Dearest Love" treated me better than "I" treated me.

"My Dearest Love" will always be the one and only Love for me.

"My Dearest Love" is where my heart will always be.

May we one day Love each other better than we ever previously did.

Until then, "My Dearest 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

"There Is No Such Thing"

Some people have made the "timing is everything" saying status quo. But really, is it? I mean none of us owns time nor can we schedule additional time once our time has expired. So, why IS "timing everything" since we have zero control over the AMOUNT of time in which we have to do what we need to do or should be doing?

Always trying to find the right time to say I'm sorry. But really, "There Is No Such Thing" if the person who needs to hear that apology is hurting right now.

Looking around the corner to find the Love that is right in front of your face, waiting for the timing to be right. But really, "There Is No Such Thing" if your heart expires and takes with it all of the Love that was inside of it.

Forgiving someone for such a horrible mistake that they admittedly made by informing them that you need "time to heal." But really, "There Is No Such Thing" should they die in the process of waiting for you to heal. Then you would have all of the time in the world in which to heal, without them, your first and true Love.

Moving your heart to forgive someone when the "time is right" is bologna. "There Is No Such Thing." Forgive them right now and move on with the rest of your lives, together! We ALWAYS say, "I can forgive but I can't forget." Well, I'm awfully glad that Jesus does not work under the same guise. Thank GOD, "There Is No Such Thing."

You will not "find" the time because you know that you will never look for it.

You will not "make" the time because you know that you will never create it.

You will not "spend" the time because you do not think that you can already afford it.

Timing is not everything unless you FIND the time, MAKE the time and truly SPEND the time, unequivocally.

Where "There Is No Such Thing," FIND it!
Where "There Is No Such Thing," MAKE it!
Where "There Is No Such Thing," SPEND it!

Then and only then will timing truly be EVERYTHING. Otherwise, "There Is No Such Thing."

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

"Leap Together"

I now realize that whenever I take a "Leap of Faith," it is not done so alone. I take that leap, shrouded in my Faith with the man who has purposed me to accomplish many things in Life. With HIM, we "Leap Together."

In my upright position, I worry not about what lies beneath my feet as I take the plunge into a space and place that HE would have FOR me, even though it may be foreign TO me. With HIM, we "Leap Together."

I recall the times that I had nothing to work with, yet successfully gained everything that I needed because I had a smidget of hope and an ounce of Faith. With HIM, we "Leap Together."

In hindsight, it escapes me why I was ever even afraid of heights to begin with. Especially when my "leaping partner" promised to never let me fall. With HIM, we "Leap Together."

Henceforth, I leap. With HIM, we "Leap Together."

Are you now ready to take the plunge knowing that you do not have to do so all alone?

If so, bring all of your problems and issues to the same ledge as all of my problems and issues and let's do this together. All three of us!

Henceforth, everyday we will meet at the ledge and with HIM, we shall "Leap Together."

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

"Something About Giving Up"

One day my son and I were playing indoor basketball. The alignment of the stars must have carried over from the night before, because I could not miss a shot, even if I tried.

I saw the look on my sons face as he kept trying to make his shots and before the frustration began to set in, I pulled him to the side and I told him, "don't quit!"

He said, "but, I'm not making my shots and you keep on making all of yours, Daddy."

"Son, you have to keep practicing and eventually your attempts will get better and you will begin to make more of those attempts. But whatever you do, don't give up. Don't you EVER give up!"

He has an incredibly competitive spirit, that little boy. Unbeknownst to me, those words would instantaneously sink in, resonate and marinate within his spirit as he began to make more of his attempts, flashing that impeccable Smile of his.

On another day that we were playing indoor basketball, the alignment of the stars must have carried over from the night before, because "he" could not miss a shot, even if "he" tried.

My motivation started to wane and before I knew it, my son pulled ME to the side and said, "don't worry Daddy. Just keep practicing and you will start making your shots just like me."

Impressed with his new found wisdom, I could not help but to inquire about their origins.

"Where did you learn that from son?"

"You told me to never give up Daddy. So, I kept on practicing."

In an attempt to mimic his impeccable Smile, I flashed one of my own.

You see once upon a time the words might have escaped me and I would have had to revisit them to ensure that the right motivational words came out of my mouth.

But, before ever becoming a parent, I relinquished my "know it all" philosophy and allowed GOD to run interference and be the mouth-piece that I needed to be in order to effectively make me the best parent that I was destined to be.

In other words...
When you have given it your absolute BEST,
That is when it is time to let GOD do the REST.

With that said, there is just "Something About Giving Up" that makes no sense at all.

So, whatever you do, don't give up. Don't you EVER give up!

My son didn't and neither will I (313).

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

"Solidarity"

I gravitated to the rear of my closet and I pulled out the same shirt that I wore the day that I laid My Mother to rest. I had no intentions on doing so, but my heart COMPELLED me to do so. That was not Corey's plan, but instead and always, it was GOD's plan. I did not understand at that very moment, but I trust GOD and I did just that, simply BECAUSE, I trust HIM.

All day long, the thought of wearing that shirt kept popping up in my head and just overwhelmed me. Since I trust GOD, wearing it was not optional when I attended the funeral of my friends Mother.

It is important to NOTE the time because at ANY point in time, it COULD be the time. Thursday, October 8, 2009, as I entered the Church, I was greeted by my friend as she was handing out programs that captured a snippet of her Mother's legacy. She reminded me of me during My Mother's "Homegoing Celebration." I saw me in her, almost two years prior. We embraced and I went to take my seat.

After the service commenced, I perked up when I heard the music of a particular song that deeply resonated with me. This particular song was the identical selection that we chose and played at My Mother's "Celebration Service" called "What A Friend We Have In Jesus." As I sat there, with my shirt on, I knew in my heart that I trusted GOD!

I watched her during the service to make sure that she was ok, but I quickly reminded myself that there is nothing that I can "do" when GOD has already "done." I trusted GOD and therefore let it go.

At the end of the service I gathered myself in the restroom before going out to embrace my friend, still trusting GOD.

It is when you allow GOD in your heart, that it is ok to lead WITH your heart, because HE is not only the driver, but the driving force behind all of the decisions that you will make, whether or not you understand them when you make them. We just have to trust GOD in and with, our hearts.

When I embraced my friend, it was a wonderful, beautiful, Spiritual connection that could have only been facilitated by GOD. Jesus resides IN my heart and I trust GOD WITH my heart.

Although "I" might not understand at the time, I know who's behind the steering wheel of my heart and I trust HIM, emphatically!

Although "YOU" might not understand at the time, know who's behind the steering wheel of your heart and trust HIM, emphatically!

When I got home, I looked at myself in the mirror as I proceeded to remove my tie and my shirt. I recalled the days events and earlier in the day, the reason eluded me. But as I began to unbutton my shirt I realized the importance of me wearing the same shirt that I wore the day that I laid My Sweet Mother to rest, on the day that my friend was about to lay her Mother to rest. It was a show of "Solidarity" in the fact that we both trust GOD immensely and unequivocally.

You see sometimes GOD uses you whether you know it or not.

You see sometimes GOD uses you whether you like it or not.

You see sometimes GOD uses you whether you want HIM to or not.

But all of that is irrelevant, so long as you TRUST GOD!

Our Mother's had never previously met nor knew of each others existence. But now, due to our "Solidarity," I know, I trust and I therefore believe that they are getting acquainted, because "we" trust GOD.

With ALL of your heart, ALWAYS trust GOD. And do so, in complete "Solidarity."

To my friend and our wonderful Mother's, may we continue to trust GOD as they assist the greatest play maker every known in anticipation of our inevitable arrival.

Here's to our unspoken "Solidarity."

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

"Your Kids In You"

I am very fortunate that my wonderful and beautiful Mother had the opportunity to meet my kids, her grandchildren.

Mother would always observe and take it in with a sly smirk on her face. I would often ask, "what's so funny, Mom?" She would say, "oh, nothing." But I KNEW it was something and for the Life of me I could never get her to reveal what it was. But, she knew that I would figure it out one day. At the time, I just wish I knew.

I know what my kids are going to do even before they do it. I anticipate their actions with my reaction prior TO their initial action. In other words, I'm already waiting with my response before they venture down "question boulevard."

You see my Mother was Smiling at the fact that what she saw in my children is what she saw in me. I would soon learn that what YOU see in YOU is nothing short of "Your Kids In You."

Your mannerisms, your gestures, your goals, your ambition, your drive, your spirit, your anger, your moods, your Love, your Life, your heart, your soul, your mind, your EVERYTHIHNG or lack thereof!

Oft times, children imitate their atmosphere. No rhyme or reason other than the fact that its "what they know." So, if you do not like THEIR behavior, then you need to change yours.

"Your Kids In You," so "I" got Baptized AGAIN, to afford them the opportunity to bare WITNESS.

"Your Kids In You," so "I" quit smoking those funky cigarettes that were attempting to rob me of my health, longevity and my presence in my children's lives and to not encourage THEM to smoke.

"Your Kids In You," so "I" subtracted Corey 100% and then added my children 100% because in order for it to all add up, you need to reduce some of the "other" stuff.

"Your Kids In You," so "I" went back to college to complete my Bachelors Degree to teach them the importance of an education and to lead by example.

"Your Kids In You," so "I" demonstrate INDEPENDENCE so that they never feel the need or allow dependence to manifest.

"Your Kids In You," "I" allow their ears to hear me Pray for them, so that one day they will Pray for others.

So, what do you see in your kids that is speaking loudly to YOU?

Well, it is because of my wonderful and beautiful Mother that I was smart and brave enough to change the things that I did not like, to change them for the better, with all of my might.

From up on high, I still see that sly little Smile,
I finally figured it out Mother, even though it might have taken me a while.

"Your Kids In You," will ALWAYS tell you, exactly what you need to do.

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 Wasn't Supposed To Happen"

Yes it was!

I always tell my son not to play ball in the house. And then he talks me into playing ball WITH him in the house. I began to appreciate his strategy once I figured out that I underestimated his wit and charm. What do they say about the apple...not falling...too far...from the...tree? Well, that's ANOTHER Blog altogether.

To prove my point and demonstrate to my son that Daddy knows what he's talking about, I allow my son to continue playing ball in the house so that the lesson that he needs to learn becomes tangible to him.

At first he delicately tosses the ball before looking in my direction to see if I am going to respond to the fact that he is breaking the rules. I know this and peripherally acknowledge his look. But I continue on doing what I'm doing as the delicate toss becomes more intentional and still, I say nothing.

You see he knows that he is breaking the rules and if I were to interrupt the flow, he will not appreciate why the rules are even in place to begin with. But, I say nothing.

As he continues to toss the ball around, his level of confidence has grown and builds enough to rival your favorite city's skyscrapers. Still, I say nothing.

Lost in his excitement that Dad has seemingly thrown the rules out of the window since he has not run interference, my son is literally beside himself. No, literally!

He begins to chunk the ball as IF he really IS outdoors playing, oblivious to the glass or other breakable objects that could soon meet their demise if he kicks or tosses the ball with too much emphasis, in their direction. But still, I say nothing.

All the while I am saying absolutely NOTHING, I am paying close attention to EVERYTHING that he is doing for the arrival of the moment that I DO need to run interference.

With excitement overflowing, he dipped into the "you know you're breaking the rules by playing ball in the house well" one too many times. And now his drought begins because the ball has successfully and inevitably connected with something breakable.

He feels the warmth of "the LOOK" upon him and by the time he lifts his head to engage my patient eyes, he quickly utters: "That Wasn't Supposed To Happen."

GOD knows that I Love my children! They have made me a BETTER person, an IMPECCABLE human being, a HUMBLE man, a TIRELESS individual, LOVE filled, overflowing with INTEGRITY, all on my way to becoming a permanent soldier on the straight and narrow path.

I look to my Heavenly Father in the same way and manner that my son looks at his father and utter the exact same words when I too have dipped into that "you know you're breaking the rules by playing ball in the house well" one too many times.

I feel the warmth of "the LOOK" upon me as I quickly utter to HIM: "That Wasn't Supposed To Happen."

But, yes it was!

That is exactly how we learn from our mistakes.

Smile!

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 Thought Of"

"The Thought Of" Loving someone OTHER than myself.

"The Thought Of" Loving someone MORE than myself.

"The Thought Of" being the absolute BEST father that I KNOW I can be.

"The Thought Of" inheriting the riches of HIS Kingdom.

"The Thought Of" passing on the Blessings that have been bestowed upon me.

"The Thought Of" BEING a Blessing to those that have been bestowed upon me.

"The Thought Of" GIVING and BEING in receipt of Love.

"The Thought Of" mastering the art of forgiveness.

"The Thought Of" being forgiven for all of the artful things that make up my colorful past.

"The Thought Of" being so far removed that RE-introductions are in order.

"The Thought Of" being so firmly planted that the uprooting process is no longer possible.

"The Thought Of" living in complete and uninterrupted unison with my heart, mind, body and soul.

"The Thought Of" being better than I was yesterday.

"The Thought Of" understanding who I am today.

"The Thought Of" growing into who I am destined to be.

"The Thought Of" being transparent for all to see.

"The Thought Of" doing something with the expectation of nothing in return.

"The Thought Of" having zero conditional attachments before and after Love has affixed itself to my heart.

"The Thought Of" Smiling everyday as if its my last.

"The Thought Of" reconciling my future before it becomes my past.

"The Thought Of"....

Your thoughts dictate who and what you are, hence the reason why they are YOUR thoughts.

What are the thoughts that consume YOUR mind? And what do they say about YOU?

"The Thought Of"

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