A BROTHER WITH A WORD !

Grover Washington, Jr. mural at North Broad Street in Philadelphia.



Here begins the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.[fn1]
In the book of the prophet Isaiah, God said, "Look, I am sending my messenger before you, and he will prepare your way.[fn2]
He is a voice shouting in the wilderness: `Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!'[fn3] "
Mark 1: 1-3

I sat reflecting on August Wilson’s play: Joe Turners Come and Gone, looked over at my husband and smiled because I notice lately that he has been a voracious reader and glued to the computer composing some powerful and poignant posts like: The Power of Love which dealt with reconciliation, love and forgiveness. After going to the theatre yesterday evening and remembering Ricky's prose, it sunk into my brain, A Brother With A Word! That was the phrase that spilled out of my mouth as Ricky and I sailed down 264’s HOV Lane. This morning we whizzed past the bumper to bumper traffic and I thought about how I really want to acknowledge men who’s work clearly signals for me that theirs' is a distinct voice in the wilderness. This living can be such a chilling experience, but it doesn’t necessarily remain that way! Thank God! But the wilderness experience can be harsh and deadly to the spirit and the body!

My husband’s, August Wilson’s and other voices are heard and appreciated; they are the John The Baptists’ in our midst, telling through their actions-their anointed works and words that the incarnate, the deity is here and for those of us that aren’t aware to make way in our lives, hearts, and endeavors for the emancipating and mighty presence of God. Yes, a new day is dawning! And it is apparent that God is at the helm! I do appreciate their strength, love and conviction.

In the months days and weeks to come I will feature several outstanding men ( in my perspective) which are impacting or have influenced some aspect of our lives for the better. No they may not all declare their faith though a streaming banner or megaphones but through their life’s work and passions. We clearly realize, they believe in the power of God who does choose in His infinite wisdom and time to rectify wrongs, be ever present to usher them through the strife and hardships, provide a restorative healing that exhibits a love divine and more importantly to love them in spite of their struggles. God holds no fault with them who have a repenting spirit. They are Ministers, Poets, Teachers, Authors, Writers, Fathers, Artist, Lovers, Musicians, Emancipated, Counselors, Blue Collar and No Collar Fellas’ and Every Day working men!

Grover Washington, Jr.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grover_Washington,_Jr.
Soul-jazz Saxophonist, Composer and Instrumentalist
Sax (Tenor), Sax (Soprano), Sax (Alto)
December 12, 1943 – 17 December 17,1999




Pieces Of A Dream Performing with Grover





Mr . Magic- Grover’s Signature Song





A Tribute to Grover from Sweet Daddy Bugg

So let’s celebrate A Brother With A Word –The Wonderful "Mr. Magic", the man that started smooth jazz sounds before there was such a phrase! The awesome Grover Washington Jr. was the pride not only of Philadelphia, PA. , but of Buffalo, New York’. He's our native son! Buffalonians love Grover! Many have tried to define his music and still remain challeneged: soul-fusion, funk jazz, classic jazz with soul, whatever and however you wish to lable his music, once introduced to Grover, you just know Grover’s distinct sound and flavor.

Many imitate but have yet to duplicate this quintessential renaissance musical genius. Truly he’d pack the venues out and the crows and audiences would go up in smoke; his music would ignite the atmosphere and celebration would erupt. The outdoor summer concerts or the jazz clubs took you to another musical dimension! To be in his presence was electric!

Grover’s musical ability as an instrumentalist and composer defy description and generalizations. His work is outstanding.

I am confident that Grover experienced sheer joy being able to convey his emotions into music,his saxophones did the speaking.

Grover was a nurturing spirit. How do I know? Well friends I witnessed many of his unselfish acts and demeanor first hand when I visited from Howard University and would catch the train for many weekend visits to see my cousin and family. He was so down to earth, he’d answer the house phone and be interested in what was concerning me and those around him. Selfish and boastful were foreign characteristics for him. Humility was his daily garb. Laughter, generosity and pleasantness were his companions.

Grover Washington, Jr. was a wonderful atmosphere changer, you were glad to be in his midst. I witnessed the tons of mail from correctional facilities for him. He‘d review many musical scores and letters that inmates and other fans would send, he reply with a sincere critique in a letter encouraging them to study and trust in their dreams. Visiting the local public high schools to musically accompanying the students was right up his alley. he loved the students and had great pride in their accomplishments and eagerness for learning. He’d carve out time for his family, he’d dream bigger dreams and help aspiring young musicians make their mark! Pieces of A Dream was the birth of his vision and ultimately he’d return to his first love musically and record classical music in Aria . Oh he lived the way he wanted, with passion and zeal and would not succumb to the status quo. Need a spiritual lift? Well reach for and enjoy Grover’s music. Come on and celebrate with joyful praise that indeed this was everyone’s brother across the globe who had a musical word and made an impact like no other! He had a sweet spirit and an infectious smile.

Without a doubt music was his mouthpiece, his expressions about faith, reverence for God’s love, joy of life, and personal sorrow all which resonated in his heartfelt soulful music. Thank you Grover, thank you for your music which shouts in the wilderness!

Shared With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

THE POWER OF LOVE

Ricky at Towne Point Park

THE POWER OF LOVE…

Posted by Richard D. Meadows, Jr

Posted on February 4, 2009 at 7:30am —

on iseecolor.com

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13

I was deep in conversation with a brother yesterday and we were talking about reconciliation. One of the most profound events that arose from the slaying of my son was not only would I choose to forgive this “brother” but totally see him in a different light. I take a lesson from Ernest Gaines book A Lesson Before Dying where I would transform this brother in my mind. I see his humanity and that he was created by God.

Desomond Tutu speaks of Ubuntu whereby I am because you are. Even with all life’s disappointments and flaws you still are therefore I am. My son had no trouble understanding that in his role as peacemaker. My first thought was he died doing what he knew to do, “No greater love has a man than this, that he would give his life for a friend.”

John 15:18 That was it, it clicked like the proverbial light bulb, Courtney was giving his life for a friend. His friend Nate, who I have not heard from nor seen since that day, was with him and Nate who Court has known from about the age of six was one of his friends. Courtney became friends with Nate after I had him clean Nate’s home after a egging.

Thinking about this made me write a letter to Jamar.

Dear Brother Jamar:

I have been thinking for a long time about you and how you are doing. I have prayed for you on many occasions. I have never met you or anyone from your family, and I know quite a few people in Buffalo, but I can’t say that I know you or your familiy. I don’t know if anyone took the time to tell you about my son Courtney, but I will give you a brief description. He loved people especially the underdog and was extremely loyal to his friends. He was very big but you may not have known he was harmless. I don’t know exactly what went down on that day, but I figured something made you nervous or scared that someone might harm you so you did what you knew to do. On that day I lost a son and your family lost you. I imagine you would do anything to have that moment back again.

I want you to know that I forgive you; I have reconciled your actions and I don’t hold this against you. I have no malice or hatred toward you only forgiveness. You will learn that one of life’s most powerful weapons is the ability to forgive. I wonder who you are and what your hopes and dreams are, I wonder about your family and how your little girl is doing. I don’t believe life is over for you and pray that one day you will find peace to avoid the fear that keeps black men from living. Be strong and may God be with you.Richard D. Meadows, Jr.

This letter now become an open letter, which I did not mail, but my hope is that someone will truly understand that I have reconcilled our brother Jamar, who may be free someday to live again, for his daughter’s sake.This is an invitation to join my group Griefitti on my page. Peace and love.

Shared with consent of my beloved husband.

Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

LAUNCHING THE BLESSEDNESS OF BELIEVING COMMUNITY HELPING HANDS WISH LIST!

I sought the Lord,

and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to him are radiant;

their faces are never covered with shame.

Psalm 14:4-5

Friends have you had this very urgent feeling that there's much more that you needed to be doing to lend a helping hand outside of your own circle? I am sure you have and are possibly experiencing this right now ! Well count me in that number! I desire to do more, step out on faith with bigger, bolder steps and rest assured it can't be about busy work!

I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT THE POTENTIAL OF THIS ENDEAVOR-HAVING A NEED AND YOUR WISH BEING GRANTED OR, BEING ABLE TO ASSIST WITH A HELPING HAND AND GIVING HELP TO THOSE IN NEED.

My husband and I were chatting, and then in the conversation I felt the mental light bulb click on and light was emitted. My spirit shouted: "I've got it!"

We both agreed why not create a BLESSEDNESS OF BELIEVING COMMUNITY HELPING HANDS WISH LIST? We have friends in ministry, you have friends in ministry, friends that always help others and several never call it ministry that are doing exceptional work with meager supplies and little or no money! Yes, a helping hand goes a very long way. SO NOT ONLY DO I WANT TO ASSIST OTHERS, I AM HOPING THAT YOU'LL PLAY A BIG PART IN THIS ENDEAVOR AND PARTNER WITH US IN ASSISTING OTHERS TO REALIZE AND ADDRESS THE NEED TO CONTINUE SERVING.

On the Right hand column of my blog I will begin listing Ministries' "WISH LISTS" or persons names that have a real desire to continue their calling-their work to positively touch lives, make great differences and demonstrate GOD'S LOVE! Love is an action word!

My friends you are invited to contact THOSE LISTED regarding their ministries need. I encourage you to give from the heart, connect them with your resources, volunteers etc. and just watch the seeds blossom into something extraordinary.

If you wish to have your ministries name placed on the Wish List simply comment on this blog with your contact information or email me at: blessedbelievers1@yahoo.com and indicate in subject: BB Community Helping Hands Wish List. I will not collect monies, nor any handle gifts or solicit goods; but will gladly share your need on my blogs, list your ministry information and pray that this endeavor catches someone's eye and touches the heart's of the wellmeaning to give.

Let’s witness your need being met with God’s gifts through a divine human touch. Keep me posted.

With tremendous joy!
Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

OPEN MIC, SELF PUBLISHING NEWS, AND AUTHORS PROMOTING AUTHORS-LIFE IS SO GOOD!

Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!

Psalm 100:1

Here’s the 411 (the scoop) friends, some burning information that I just COULDN'T KEEP TO MYSELF! There’s an opportunity to have your published work receive free publicity, garnering the exposure and an audience that awaits you! Imagine that? There are no hidden charges , fees and hoops to jump through simply reference: Authors Promoting Authors

What a fresh idea one author lifting up the name of another comrade in an effort of support through a Blog aptly titled : Author Promoting Authors. We realize that it’s one thing to write a book but quite another journey to receive an opportunity to promote our beloved work. Kudos to Tina-Sue Ducross who conceived this idea. She's the author of the book No Shadows Left Behind.Let's reach out to this author and also support her work.

Again for Authors Promoting Authors inquires reach Tina at: authorspromotingauthors@gmail.com . Thank you Tina for the genuine consideration and committment shown other authors. God bless you!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thinking about self publishing and bypassing the tradition publishing house maze? Well I believe this resource will clarify some burning questions and provide you with direction on which publishing road you'll venture down. Thanks to Anita Harrell, Public Librarian I received this insightful article that you’ll glean excellent resources and advice from. We appreciate the love shown Anita! May God continue to show you abundantly!

Self-Publishers Flourish as Writers Pay the Tab
By MOTOKO RICH
Published: January 27, 2009
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And for those persons that reside in the Virginia Tidewater Area there's
Word4Word Poets Open Mic Event - HRTownSquare.com at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Aromas Coffee House, 706 Town Center Drive. For more information, call 757-240-4650 or visit www.word4wordpoets.org. ...
https://webmail.hamptonu.edu/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://word4wordpoets.org/about/

Come on friends let's smell the coffee @ Aromas and share a divine word!

This was provided to you in the name of an Agape Love. Lord we thank you for allowing Tina and Anita to have the heart to bless us with their wonderful gifts and resources.

Keep believing and keep moving towards the mark my friends! Doors do open for us and life is good and God does order our steps. Just place one foot in front of the other (God's got your compass) and don't let go of the dreams that have been planted in You! To the most high God, may His majesty and dominion and power rest rule and abide!

With tremendous joy!

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

WE WERE THERE FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION!

His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him

and find him—though he is not far from any one of us.
Acts 17:27

In my tote bag that seems to go wherever I travel that is work related are a number of heavy items, planners, calendars, makeup bag, snacks and several bills (don’t ask)! Tucked into my coverless planner are a few commemorative items from Inauguration weekend. One of the items is the pamphlet entitled “COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE TO: Riding Metro during the Presidential Inauguration Weekend.” I fondly refer to that item and my worn out metro-rail pass with President Obama’s face and inauguration date often. It’s a beautiful reminder that I was in Washington, D.C. Also, it humbles me because I really wanted to celebrate in doors at a brunch with friends and family music and great food. You know the menu: cheddar cheese baked grits, scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, mimosa, fruit salad and danish of couse, yes the whole nine yards. Instead I had eaten a donut and taken my vitamins with a glass of water and off we were into the frigid weather. So I cherish those mementos for many reasons.

That entire day was a reality check. The crowds, the occasion, the journey, the mission and its significance. But honestly I grumbled because I just didn’t want the experience- this awe inspiring day in that way. Heavy coat, hat, boots, leggings, scarfs etc. I would be totally misrepresenting my “sainthood” if I told you that I wanted to be out in the Antarctic air. I even said, “Hey I hear they are inviting people into the Capitol and we can visit our Representatives' Office.” That fell on deaf ears-no takers! My husband retorted”Oh yeah, I bet.”
My husband more than me seemed to have had it all mapped out mentally on how we would get eventually to the National Mall for the inauguration festivities. I gladly reminded him that many of the metro stations that traditionally lead to the National Mall had been cordoned off for security reasons. We rose very early in the morning followed my cousin Camille into Washington, D.C. to park our car at Aunt Juanita’s (I felt that was smart)and then from there we caught the metro rail to get in the vacinity of the mall. Sounds simple enough I know. The metro ride was packed, you could feel the energy of those anticipating a memorable occasion. I smiled but really wondered what awaited us. The police officers along our walking route pointed us in the direction we should travel. When I say I have no idea how many blocks or miles we journeyed, I am not kidding. We even walked through a tunnel, singing, and shouting with the crowd “Obama!” Prior to the tunnel trek we came to an abrupt halt, there were a sea of people everywhere not being allowed to proceed. And suddenly the crowd moved and I was separated for a split second from my folks-that didn't feel too assuring.

I kept thinking I need to be at Crampton Auditorium at Howard University indoors, possibly other Alum might be present. At any rate my friends we were able to bypass the shoulder to shoulder barricades, we walked many more miles, and even witnessed two elderly women making their way through the crowds, young people carrying-waving flags, vendors with gobs of paraphernalia, and streams of folks moving about, just moving.

A tour guide stood in the middle of the street, clapping for us and encouraging us as though we were in a marathon, “You’re almost there, straight ahead”! I laughed and said, “Yeah that’s what we were told back there.”

We both laughed but I really was sincere.

When we finally arrived near the Washington Monument there lines wrapped around the structure, families running and playing with there children, while people were drawing closer to the massive screens celebrating, cheering, smiling, taking photos and hugging. It was an atmosphere of exuberance, harmony, and love. I felt better, warmer if that were possible. God would have it that there stood a lone tree near the jumbo-trone that we’d remain anchored to. My husband leaned on the tree and I leaned on him and witnessed history in the making! We drank our hot chocolate and chatted with the folks around us. This was remarkable people from all around the world. One woman commented that her husband was grumpy, my husband shared that I had been the same. After the swearing in ceremony we headed to Howard University-our metro stop was the Shaw/Howard University stop.When I was a student there was no metro, we then began a serious sojourn up the hill.

It was a day of many firsts. I am so glad that I can say, “We were there!” Yes my feet were icesicles, but my heart was bursting with joy. My camera wouldn’t cooperate, but thank God for Ricky and Taylor’s cell phone cameras. Also I’ve included photos from Essence Magazine’s Obama watch -some of which we witnessed on the jumbo-trone and at Howard University.

Thank you Jesus for all the stellar photographers and more importantly for an extraordinary day witnessing President-elect Barak Obama becoming our 44th US President Barak Obama. Aretha really sang didn't she!

One final note about this life’s lesson is that when we sulk our way through a moment, an occasion where we ought to be celebrating from start to finish we’re depriving ourselves of some real joy and probably making our loved ones unhappy, not to mention ourselves. Notice I didn't use the word miserable? I realize that's not our intention, but it does happen!) I see it now, but I can only glance at the mementos and photos and wished I had not been so absorbed with my celebrating in the manner I had hoped for. This is an occasion I can not relive.

Next time I promise, I’ll know better. In the meantime I’ll find my Inauguration Button and show it off and gladly share with any one that questions it's origin and announce, “Yep I was there for the presidential inauguration!” In my spirit I'll know I almost missed out and had it not been for my husband's vision I would have not witnessed this day firsthand.

Maybe I’ll see you during one of the White House tours and greet our First Family with pride, wearing my button of course.

Adventure, yes indeed, possibly the many trails and the countless steps needed to arrive at the destination all count for our good! I am sure President Obama and First Lady Michelle would agree!

‘May the Lord bless you and protect you.May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.’
Numbers 6:24-26

We're In His Hands!

Peace & Love,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

TODAY'S PROMISE FROM THE BIBLE

Today's Promise from the Bible


Thou [art] my hiding place and my shield:
I hope in thy word. Psalm 119:114

REFLECTION

The Lord promises to protect us from the attacks of our enemy, the Devil. It is in God's Word that we find the salvation that gives us hope to live.
http://promises.blueletterbible.org/

DAY BY DAY GRACE

The Ongoing Grace of God
I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts... it is good that the heart be established by grace. (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 13:9)

http://www.blueletterbible.org/devotionals/dbdbg/view.cfm

Shared in Love,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

ANNIVERSARY BOOKSIGNING AT BARNES & NOBLE NEW TOWN SHOPS IN WILLAMSBURG, VA.

God is so wonderful, I am living out my dream and it's only the beginning!

January 24th, 2009 was the anniversary of my very first booksigning ever!

(Ricky is my beloved photographer)

Barnes & Noble in Williamsburg is where it all started. Great start wouldn't you agree? The managers and staff greeted me with open arms then and this past Saturday was again a delightful atmosphere! There were no exceptions.

I was greatful for the opportunity to return, excited about the possibilities of meeting new book lovers, being able to share my devotional with a transparent heart (a lot less nervous) and prayerfully conveying a sincerity that once the devotional was introduced certainly one would want it to compliment there own inspirational library. I was greeted with enthusiasm but not everyone rushed to the counter to make a purchase. But, I understand that's the nature of a booksigning. I had many well wishers, and some that promised if they could they would purchase it and others agreed to return to the store at a future time. And to my delight there were those that brought my devotional, this really made my heart leap for joy. So my friends it seems to balances out. I just regret not having favors and some yummy desert for everyone.

God does what He does and that's sometimes placing us front and center with the pure motive of sharing his truths and promises ( He simply needs elects a willing vessel)-I hope I fulfilled His mission and didn't disappoint Him? I conversed, commensurated, laughed, talked probably a little too loud when I was really thrilled and listened. Yes, I even silently prayed. It's apparent now as I share this, that God was holding my hand the entire afternoon. I am trusting that I was exactly where he intended me to be a year later after the publication and booksigning of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises!

Nevertheless I am continually with You;

You hold me by my right hand.

Psalm 73:23

It's another year my friends and I am delighted to be an author on a divine misssion. (Instead of writing another post I just thought why not place this entry with the inital invitation. Hope you didn't mind?) I am greatful for those the Lord sent my way and the wonderful Saturday afternoon spent at my favorite bookstore-Barnes & Nobles. Hope to see you there again in the near future. Maybe next time we can share some wonderful chocolate chunk cookies and some icey drinks when we celebrate your milestones. Blessings to you!

YOU ARE INVITED TO COME AND MEET

LINDA MOSE MEADOWS

INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR OF :

January 2008 ~This was a dream come true for me!

My first booksigning!

THE BLESSEDNESSOF BELIEVING

A DEVOTIONAL JOURNEY OF LIFE'S LESSONS AND GOD'S PROMISES

Time: January 24, 2009 from 2pm to 4pm

Location: Street: 5101 Main St.

City/Town: Williamsburg, VA 23188

Website or Map: http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Contact Info: 757-564-0687

Event Type: Book, Signing

Organized By: Tate Publishing

With Great JOY!

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/