"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

"Like the Day We First Met"

"You never get a second chance to make a first impression Corey," my Mother would reiterate to me on a semi-regular basis. She knew that I "got it," but she just wanted to make sure that I "GOT IT."

"Make sure she leaves something for the imagination Corey," my Mother would remind me on a regular basis. She knew that I "got it," but she wanted to make sure that "it" did not have me before I "GOT IT."

My Mother was smooth! She knew how to spare your feelings in the process of educating you along the way.

So, when we finally first met, I remembered what my Mother first told me about her:

"That first impression."

"That something for the imagination."

My recollection of the events leading up to are crystal clear. My subsequent thoughts thereafter are abundantly dear.

I am humbled that I did not live to regret, that I Love you just "Like the Day We First Met."

The power of Love will compel you to fall in Love with Love all over again. Should you have any doubt, then fondly recall the day that you met and fell in Love with Love.

You too will be humbled that you did not live to regret, the very day that you...just "Like the Day We First Met."

It's time to fall in Love with Love all over again. That first impression, that something for the imagination, just "Like the Day We First Met."

I'm so glad I "GOT IT," because my Mother sure was right!

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 A. Ford

"The Beauty In"

You do what needs to be done, for no reason other than the fact that it, needs to be done.

You say what needs to be said, for no reason other than the fact that it, needs to be said.

Your heart is as big as all outdoors because your physical frame is too small to contain the immense joy that is packaged within just that wonderful Smile alone!

You make all of the difference in all of the lives that you touch, directly and indirectly, expecting nothing in return, other than the NEXT opportunity in which to do it all over again.

May your beauty never fade.
May your heart never grow weary.
May your efforts never become tired.

"The Beauty In" what you do, is the fact that it makes YOU who YOU are.

When people see YOU, do they see "The Beauty In" YOU?

More importantly, when YOU see YOU, do YOU see "The Beauty In" YOU?

GOD does....

In everything that you do, there lies "The Beauty In" YOU!

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 Old and The New"

Once upon a time "The New" became "The Old" in order to make way for "The New" again.

Yesterday holds the history that was made and all of the missed opportunities, that for THEIR time, are FOREVER gone.

The gift of tomorrow is the promise that more history shall be made and that even more opportunities will rear their heads, present themselves in either a natural state or by your determined, persistent efforts.

"The New" catches up to "The Old" as soon as "The Old's" newness has run its course and worn off.

"The Old and The New" will always come full circle, eventually surpassing one another, as "The New" becomes "The Old" and "The Old" is "The New" again.

Good, bad and otherwise, remember all of "The Old" so that we can humbly and appreciatingly march right on into "The New."

So, CHEERS to yesterdays history and tomorrows opportunities in which to MAKE history.

September 2009 is now "The Old." But, September 2010 will greet us again in "The New."

Until then, All the Best, All the Time and I'll see you in "The New" October 2009!

Let's take "The Old and The New" and make history in everything that we 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

"I'm Getting There"

Today, as I begin to turn the corner on Life's next chapter, I reminded myself that "I AM MOTIVATED" to go where I need to be and to arrive at a place where I can clearly see, every twig, every branch, every limb and ALL of the forest for ALL of the trees.

And although I may not have arrived at my destination as of yet, "I'm Getting There."

I might have taken the scenic route in accomplishing my academic goals but before obtaining my degree, I kept reminding myself of the fact that, "I'm Getting There."

I might "get it" a tad bit later, but greater is my understanding once I "got it." So indeed, "I'm Getting There."

I have decided to abstain from ignorance, replace it with substance and Pray for Deliverance. Yup, "I'm Getting There."

Life's flight path may have layovers in destinations that were not a part of your original itinerary, but gently remind yourself that no matter how many delays and layovers that I may experience or encounter, still, "I'm Getting There."

I may have felt like I have been passed over and passed up on opportunities that I would have sworn had my name written on them in calligraphy, but it is alright, because "I'm Getting There."

Life may have dealt me lemons, but when it is all said and done, rest assured that my lemonade stand will be sold out! But, not before it is incorporated and sold to the highest bidder. Oh yeah, "I'm Getting There."

I may not be able to hug My Mother like I used to, but all of my hard work down here is not for naught. I WILL hug my sweet Mother once again, because "I'm Getting There."

You may not be where you want to be in your Life, but you keep on telling yourself that no matter what, "I'm Getting There."

You may not have the Love of your Life to share ALL of your Life, but in time, know that, "I'm Getting There."

As I confront each and every one of my flaws, I am determined to claw, my way up out of despair, because come hell or high water, YES, "I'm Getting There."

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 MOTIVATED!"

I woke up this morning with breath in my body and the ability to facilitate activity within my limbs.

"I AM MOTIVATED!"

I Prayed with my children the night before and they allowed me visibility into the gateway of their hearts, which was food to my soul.

"I AM MOTIVATED!"

Until my children author my epitaph and crown me the best dad EVER, I look forward to the upcoming work that I need to do.

"I AM MOTIVATED!"

I will author as many Blogs as I need to in order to effectively impact the unknown number of people that I am supposed to.

"I AM MOTIVATED!"

Still "Chasing That Passion" and I have yet to break a single trickle of sweat.

"I AM MOTIVATED!"

"I AM MOTIVATED" to not want to NOT do anything, yet do everything that motivation can and does afford me to do, which is everything that I am purposed to already do in addition to the subsequent things that fill the tiny little voids along the way. "I AM MOTIVATED!"

"I AM MOTIVATED" because there is too much work to do!
"I AM MOTIVATED" because everything is typically done by only a few.

"I AM MOTIVATED" because I am aware of what I do not know.
Yet, still, "I AM MOTIVATED," forbidding the grass underneath my feet to grow.

Until I collapse at Life's finish line, simultaneously taking my wings and am reunited with my Loving Mother, my little brother, my grandmother, my grandfather, my uncles, my friends and all of the people that have preceded me in Life's eternity, "I AM MOTIVATED!"

Difference maker, "I AM MOTIVATED!"
Active participator, "I AM MOTIVATED!"

Being present IN the present, "I AM MOTIVATED!"
Taking care of "The Most Important Things First" without being negligent, "I AM MOTIVATED!"

In EVERYTHING that I do,
"I AM MOTIVATED!"

In EVERYTHING that you do, tell yourself, "I AM MOTIVATED!"

"I AM MOTIVATED!"
"I AM MOTIVATED!"
"I AM MOTIVATED!"

Catch your breath and demonstrate the activity within those limbs because here comes motivation again.

"I AM MOTIVATED!"

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 Most Important Things First"

Some of the time it is too easy to get "caught up" and so deep in the mix that you find it difficult if not altogether impossible to navigate your way to fresh air, get your head above ground or at least surface level.

We all have been and are guilty of behaving in ways that we wind up "laughing at" later on down the road.

But, as we "mature" it becomes imperative for us to demonstrate growth and illuminate a pattern that would support the fact and reinforce the belief that growth has been achieved, accomplished and realized.

So, your words followed by your actions or your actions that precede your words should be based on a "Core Foundation."

Before you say what you are going to do or before you do what you plan on doing, you should think about "The Most Important Things First."

GOD, that "Core Foundation," the Rock of Gibraltar component is based on a multitude of sub-components such as your sounding board, your voice of reason, your Spirit, your heart, your logic, that all add up and make up "The Most Important Things First."

GOD, who IS my "Core Foundation" AND my Rock of Gibraltar, has enlisted attributes within me to make sure that what I think about ARE "The Most Important Things First," before I deploy my innate ability in which to ACT.

"The Most Important Things First." What would GOD have me do?

"The Most Important Things First." What would my Mother think?

"The Most Important Things First." How could this possibly impact my children?

"The Most Important Things First." Could this potentially embarrass my family?

"The Most Important Things First." Am I purposed to do this?

The list of "The Most Important Things First" will vary from person to person, but that's not what's most important. What's most important is the fact that you HAVE a list and that it IS prioritized according to how YOU define "The Most Important Things First."

I am a firm believer in the fact that more information affords us the opportunity in which to make better decisions, so long as we are mindful of "The Most Important Things First." It will probably only take you "Just A Few Seconds" in which to compose that list.

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

"Just A Few Seconds"

My son and I are the Unified Tag Team Champions of the World. YES, we are fans of wrestling and have our own Tag Team Titles that we are willing to defend against anyone that thinks that they can pin either one us for the "1, 2, 3!"

So, as I make preparations for the day, my son pops in every 2 to 5 minutes imploring me to "WATCH this, Daddy!" "Have you EVER seen this move before, Daddy?" "Come look at THIS, Daddy!"

You see, my son has his little wrestling figures, the ring and the peripheral set up to stage all of his little matches.

"Son, Daddy has to get ready."

"It will be really quick, Daddy," he promises. "Please come here for "Just A Few Seconds," Daddy."

As I oblige his every request, I inform him that "Daddy cannot keep coming in every time that you call me son. I have to get us ready so that we can leave."

But my son has no concept of time management. So long as his time is spent with his father, he could care less.

In the back of my mind, I know that I'm going to be late and as we get closer to departure, his requests begin to increase, especially if our destination will mean that we have to go our separate ways for the course of the day.

I will usually have to administer EXTRA hugs on top of the mandatory 20. But in the back of my mind I hear his voice telling me "It will be really quick, Daddy." So, I oblige, EVERY time!

You see, to make a difference to ONE lifetime takes "Just A Few Seconds." So, I take EVERY one of those few seconds to make that difference in the ONE lifetime, so that he will oblige the "Laws of Reciprocity" and take "Just A Few Seconds" to make a difference in HIS sons lifetime, the same way that HIS Daddy did.

Not to say that I am better than, but imagine if ALL fathers took "Just A Few Seconds" to make a difference in the lifetime of the lives that they can unmistakably make a positive impact in?

I thank you GOD for making "Corey" smaller, so that my heart can grow BIGGER! I'm sure that it only took YOU, "Just A Few Seconds."

Typically, I'm behind schedule, but now I have a good reason to be. As one half of the Unified Tag Team Champions of the World, I'm going to take "Just A Few Seconds" to defend the titles with my son.

If I need to be somewhere, know that I will be behind schedule, for "Just A Few Seconds." For I now have a good reason to be.

MEN, starting TODAY, take "Just A Few Seconds."

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 Me or Leave Me Alone"

If you "Love" me, then "LOVE" me already! If not, then just leave me alone!

Be steady with your aim if your target is Love. What should happen if you miss, your target AND your opportunity, simultaneously, that is?

It is quite simple actually. Love is an action word, a verb that by definition REQUIRES you to back up your verbiage with said action that would allow you to witness SOMETHING as opposed to hearing what amounts to NOTHING.

"LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."

Do not be afraid to tell them what they need to hear with respect to the emotions that you are feeling, as inadequate and lacking as their efforts might be, it is YOUR heart that becomes the sacrificial lamb if they Love you in a half-hearted fashion, due to their LACK of action.

"LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."

They either want LOVE or they do not want Love. And if they're undecided, then allow yourself to make the decision on their behalf. Better yet, allow YOURSELF to make the decision on your OWN behalf!

"LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."

If "Love" is NOT your priority, then you are NOT in "LOVE."

"LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."

I do not need the distractions. You can find me out there, SOMEWHERE, "Chasing My Passion!"

TELL THEM: Since GOD is "LOVE," you either "LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."

You need to "LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."
You should "LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."
You either "LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone."

"LOVE Me or Leave Me Alone," already!

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

"Chase Your Passion!"

Are you tired of running?

If the answer is yes, then that is indicative of the fact that you are NOT "Chasing Your Passion."

We do not get TIRED from the efforts that we put forth that originate from the heart, OUR hearts. What are YOU passionate about in Life? Whatever it is, you need to be chasing it right now!

For the purposes of sharing, Corey is PASSIONATE about making a difference in EVERYTHING that I do! When I write a Blog, I am PASSIONATE about the difference that it could possibly make in someone's Life, at the right moment and at that right time!

When I prepare a meal, I am PASSIONATE about the preparation that goes into creating a "Fantastic Dinner."

For if I am not making a difference, then I am not making a contribution, yet a withdrawal against already insufficient "Life" funds and there is nothing passionate about that.

When you find yourself running in place, perhaps that is the perfect opportunity to re-evaluate your situation and ask yourself quite frankly: am I even PASSIONATE about what it is that has my time and energy occupied? What if this is Life's way of telling you that what you are chasing is not truly the passion that exists within your heart?

This is the perfect time in which to listen, so that we may dismount from the "running in place" treadmill, let your feet hit the pavement and begin to RUN, as you "Chase Your Passion!"

On your MARKS!

Get SET!

Let's GO!

"Chase Your PASSION!"

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

"Fantastic Dinner"

After "Creating My Own Lane" yesterday, I found myself pondering what to cook my kids for dinner on the way home from work. I like to get creative, keep it interesting for them in the same manner in which they keep it creative and interesting for me.

I always solicit my children for their feedback with respect to the meals that I prepare for them, whether it is breakfast, lunch, brunch or dinner. I try to stay conscious of the fact that our taste buds are like our fingerprints, unique to each of us and similar to none of us.

I sat down to eat with them and without having to ask, I saw their elation at what was prepared for them. It made me elated that I could do that for them considering the fact that they are not shy about not liking something and happily leaving it "untouched" in the process.

The funny thing about kids not liking a particular dish is the visual that one can get. Imagine a child eating everything on their plate and then excusing themselves from the table. Then the parent comes along and puts a particular dish on their empty plate. Everything is gone with the exception of that new dish that you just put on their already empty plate. That is exactly what you might as well do when you discover a dish that is unsavory to a child, your child or any child for that matter. It will be left on the plate as if the parent put it on the plate AFTER they had already been excused from the table. You gotta Love the brutal honesty of kids!

You know nothing made my wonderful Mother Smile more brightly than when we praised her culinary skills and gave thanks to her for replenishing our nutritional value and strength with a well cooked, delicious meal.

Throughout the course of our busy days and lives and from time to time we forget to acknowledge the gestures, both large and small that make all the difference in our lives.

Just a few days prior a colleague forwarded me something that reminded me that "Your Labor Is Not in Vain."

So, when I sat down to eat with my kids, my beautiful daughter proceeded to tell me that I had prepared a "Fantastic Dinner" for them. I looked up at her with that same bright Smile that my wonderful Mother looked at her kids with as her little brother co-signed what his big sister had just told me!

It had nothing to do with my culinary skills! It had everything to do with the fact that I felt appreciated. I did not solicit them for their feedback, they just appreciatingly offered it to me by calling their meal a "Fantastic Dinner."

Of course she could have asked me to purchase her a car and I would have blindly obliged. But, it sure did feel good to be appreciated.

Yes, throughout the course of our busy days and lives and from time to time we DO forget to acknowledge the gestures, both large and small that make all the difference in our lives.

But I am so grateful that my reminder of such came from the daughter that I Love so much. My children remind me of the best that Life has to offer and keep me honest in my heart about "what TRULY matters," Love.

Before the end of TODAY, make sure to tell someone how much you appreciate the gestures, both large and small, that make all the difference in their lives. Then promptly stand back and admire that wonderful bright Smile. The same one that my Mother gave her kids, that I in turn gave to my kids.

Tonight, have a "Fantastic Dinner."

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

"Create Your Own Lane"

It appears that everyone else is driving by you as you sit behind the red lights of the vehicle directly in front of you. You cannot get in the lane to your left because it is a High Occupancy Vehicle lane used for those that are perceived to be doing more because they are simply carrying more.

Upon closer observation, you begin to notice that not everyone driving in the HOV lane is meeting the requirements to travel in the HOV lane because they are not high occupancy even though they are vehicles using it as such.

Such is Life!

How many people are driving right on through Life in the HOV lane just because it is there and not because they are necessarily adhering to the rules of?

Tempting, isn't it? If you just bunny hop right on in that HOV lane for a few, you can successfully bypass the bottleneck traffic and simultaneously shave off some of your commute time, right? I mean afterall, didn't you witness someone else, others, doing the exact same thing without any perceived repercussions? It IS tempting, isn't it?

Such is Life!

There is NOTHING that we do, that we realize is not the right thing to do, that has no repercussions, whether it has been witnessed or not.

Such IS Life!

Instead of following and doing as the others do, DARE to "Create Your Own Lane" in Life. Dare to separate yourself from that bottleneck and flow on the open road of Life as if you're the only one on the road, traveling at that time, top down! Still Tempting?

When the road in Life that you're traveling down does not contain your needs and wants within its inventory, it is time to "Create Your Own Lane."

So, top off that tank, give Praise and Thanks and I'll see you on the road!

And remember, no one can pass you by, when you "Create Your Own Lane."

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

"When I Became Who I Am"

In order for me to become who I am, I had to first relinquish who I was.

Impossible it was to lay claim to "anew" today when the ways of yesterday kept outweighing everything that I was claiming to be "new." I had to let go!

The "perceived" hurtful part of letting go was the "deception." Letting go, had me believe that by doing so, meant that I would be missing out, hence the emphasis on "perceived" and "deception."

I confronted "letting go" and proceeded to inform him that I needed to sever ties with him and his old ways, in order to make room for better and more promising days.

Old and new simply cannot occupy the same space and place at the same time because of the jealousy that "old" will inevitably have of the "new." Old wanted me to believe that the "perceived" was actually painful. But I told "old" that since it was not "realized," it did no hurt one bit.

So "old," up to its same "old" tricks tried to have me believe that I would be "missing out." "Missing out" pulled me to the side and informed me that "old" was just "jealous." Jealousy confirmed what "missing out" initially told me and what once worked together to keep me in "old's" bondage started working FOR me to free me of "old's" deception.

And to think that it all started when I took my needs to GOD. HE made what once worked AGAINST me, start to work FOR me!

And as soon as I "let go," is exactly "When I Became Who 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

"<, >, ="

"<, >, ="

So, which one are you? Are you less "<" than, greater ">" than or equal "=" to what your Life's dreams and aspirations would have for you?

Are you trying less "<" than the person that is trying greater ">" than the person that is satisfied with being equal "=" to?

Where do you fit or are you trying just enough to say that you did, right before you quit?

If you know for a fact that your efforts are equal "=" to what is being performed in a less "<" than capacity, it is time to step your game up and be greater ">" than the thoughts of those that you are proving right, the ones who thought that you would be exactly right where you are.

So, I ask you. Which one are you? Are you less "<" than, greater ">" than or equal "=" to what your Life's dreams and aspirations would have for you? Should the answer be ambiguous to you, chances are you can effectively cancel out greater ">" than as an option. Being less "<" than or equal "=" to do not necessarily cut it due to the fact that as long as you have Life, dreams and aspirations should be greater ">" than and deserve more than less "<" than or equal "=" to as options.

So, in essence, do not ever settle for less "<" than or equal "=" to. The mere fact that you have Life in your body is greater ">" than! So, it is time to live Life in the same greater ">" than manner, next level capacity.

But, ultimately you decide: "<, >, ="

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 Solution"

We ALL have problems. Some are bigger than others. Others are longer than some. Some are wider than the longer ones. Then there are the type of problems that are infinitely looped. Oh YES, we ALL have problems!

How we go about solving our problems is as unique as each one of our problems origins. But the one common solution to ANY and ALL problems is Prayer. If you do not believe me, then I challenge you to call my bluff and I dare you to Pray about ANY type of problem that has befallen you. No need to take my word for it, just see for yourself.

Within each problem lies a solution, "The Solution," that may not have necessarily caught your immediate attention. So wrapped up within the forest, we inadvertently neglect the trees. Therefore, we can no longer SEE the forest for the trees in "The Solution."

So, step back and adequately gauge your problem. If it is a "blip," then don't trip. If it is a tragedy, then give it to the Heavenly and Pray.

Problems are just GOD's opportunity in which to showboat! HE likes the spotlight because there ain't NOTHING that HE can't do! But, no need to take my word for it, like I said, just see for yourself.

And even when everything is everything, still tell HIM thank you, for doing HIS thing!

So, if you want to offer up a contribution, do not be a part of the problem, be a part of "The Solution." Pray.

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 Matters"

When all of "What Matters" is finally revealed to you, it will subsequently make all other matters, not even matter at all.

All of the time and energy that I used to be guilty of squandering made me realize the enormous amount of distractions that are intentionally and strategically placed within our lives whose sole purpose is to prevent us from forging ahead in a progressive manner.

What mattered then, mattered NOT then, so why did I ever allow it to even matter at all?

"What Matters" now is the fact that I KNOW "What Matters" now and all of "What Matters" now has my undivided, "squander-proof" attention.

When "What Matters" in your Life has shown you "What Matters" in the form of the latter, that you now KNOW "What Matters," all other matters, simply do not matter. They never did.

"What Matters" to Corey may not be "What Matters" to you and "What Matters" to you may not be "What Matters" to Corey, but "What Matters" to the both of us is of equal importance and more importantly, that we are truly focused, on "What Matters."

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

"Reconciliation of Commitment"

Sometimes the MEANING of the word "commitment" escapes us and tries its absolute very best to help us forget the PURPOSE of "commitment," why we initially chose "commitment" and why we should never abandon or forsake what "commitment" is truly all about.

I firmly believe that in order to achieve a selfless attitude and perspective, we must first subtract ourselves, selfishness and all, from the mathematical equation of Life.

We need not further hinder the innate process by blocking ourselves from being who and what we are supposed to be in Life. And since our perfection is non-existent, it is imperative for the commencement of the "Reconciliation Of Commitment."

When there is a saturation of maturation, reconciliation can be accomplished, I wholeheartedly believe.

I am committed to reconciling any and all differences that would forbid me from becoming:

A better person
A better son
A better father
A better brother
A better grandson
A better uncle
A better nephew
A better companion
A better friend
A BETTER MAN!

My "Reconciliation Of Commitment" does not make Corey BETTER.

My "Reconciliation Of Commitment" has made Corey better than what Corey USED to be.

As I illuminate my wrongs, I further demonstrate the ability to reconcile them with a renewed commitment, void of any stagnancy, filled with complete action, of the proactive nature, while reconciling the lack of action, of the reactive nature.

I have renewed my commitment TO commitment, starting with the reconciliation OF.

When there is a saturation of maturation, reconciliation can be accomplished, I do wholeheartedly believe.

May today's "Reconciliation Of Commitment," as it was intended, stand FIRM, forevermore.

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

"Spiritual Gravity"

Every now and then, the britches succumb to shrinkage.

That is just Corey's way of implying that I too get too big for my britches every now and then. But when that happens, I am happy to acknowledge that I am getting much better at reprimanding my vertical, single-minded focus and looking at the bigger horizontal picture.

I owe that to "Spiritual Gravity."

When my resources such as patience and understanding start running on the low side, I go back to my source and Pray for replenishment.

I give thanks to "Spiritual Gravity."

Instead of thumbing my way around in the darkness, I have FOUND the light switch and turned it on, but not before changing the low wattage bulb that used to hinder my sight and forward progression within the confines of my mental four walls.

I have realized the Blessings of "Spiritual Gravity."

As I embark upon the next chapter in my Life, I do so with the same vigor and tenacity, exponentially speaking, that has me looking forward to, regretting nothing that I have EVER learned from and proactively listening to and extracting plans from, the voice of "Spiritual Gravity."

Between the concrete and the sole's of my shoes, exists my "Spiritual Gravity," one that bucks the energy of Life's centrifugal force, keeping me well-rounded and grounded enough to navigate in the midst of and strong enough to withstand the winds as I stand in the eye, chaos all around, feet planted on solid ground.

"Spiritual Gravity," didn't then and won't fail me 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