PASSING ON THE VALUE OF: SHARING!

"Whatever we possess becomes of double value when we have the opportunity of sharing it with others.”

Jean-Nicolas Bouilly (1763-1842);

“Have you had a kindness shown? Pass it on; 'Twas not given for thee alone, Pass it on; Let it travel down the years, Let it wipe another's tears, 'Til in Heaven the deed appears - Pass it on. ”

Henry Burton (1840-1930);

I love, appreciate it and have a ball actively and creatively expressing my values and my belief systems on the website: Values.com, The Foundation for a Better Life. They have cleverly shared a myriad of values we hold deep in our hearts no matter our lineage. After visiting this website, I want to jump on the bandwagon and stretch my creative muscles. Their inspirational quotes, billboards, stories and photos cause me to ponder and wonder how I too will share important and enduring beliefs that sustain me and sometimes cause me to reflect with thanksgiving. Just like when I was a little girl, I believed everyone in the class should receive a Valentine’s Day card, cupcake or whatever my Mama provided me with to eagerly dole out.

I like to share and want others to play and participate in the game also. I am convinced that the creators of Values.com have the same mindset. Class can you say: In-clu-siv-ity? They have cleverly and thoughtfully provide a public invitation and a platform to tout the values we most treasure. Those treasured values our fore parents and life have instilled in us! And more importantly to pass them on! Values.com slogan is: “Values are worth more than when we pass them on!” And so my friends today that is the resounding theme, remembering the importance of stepping out and sharing. Yes, sharing in order to pass on the love, and not withhold encouragement! Join me in the fun of sharing, surprising yourselves and helping to make this world a better place and building a life of appreciation and delight in spite of _____________ ( you fill in the blank) and to just go on in faith and do the things which are a foundation for a better life!

Below are my “Value” creations of: excellence, inner vision, sharing, persistence and believe on Values.com. I am looking forward to seeing yours!

Values Sighting

http://www.values.com/pass-it-on-sightings/256-Atlanta

My plane landed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport during the Easter Holiday to visit with my family. As I walked the concourse towards the Air Tran baggage claim, there I sighted the wonderful Values.com Excellence billboard with Jim Thorpe. At that moment I wished I had had my college aged son to take a photo of me smiling in front of the billboard and to chat with me about the many contributions Jim Thorpe (Native American) made as a stellar American football player, and as an outstanding Olympic athlete. I encourage others to learn more about Jim Thorpe, it will broaden your appreciation for this man's character and his resolve in overcoming adversity.

Inner Vision: Chappelle Letman: A remarkable sculptor with eyes of faith

http://www.values.com/your-billboards/3250-Chappelle-Letman-A-Remarkable-Sculptor-With-Eyes-Of-Faith-

Mr. Chappelle Letman is a 21st century master sculptor, a true renaissance artist. Prior to losing his vision permanently in 1992 he worked in construction to supplement his income, this artist loved painting with oils which depicted nature scenes, cityscapes and people. Eight years later transitioning into a new reality of being visually challenged wasn’t necessarily easy for him. Mr. Letman recalled his loving mother’s promptings to excel and live his best life. She instilled wisdom and a sound work ethic which he continually exhibits. His spirit conveyed, “Don’t panic, have faith.” This life lesson carries over when he humbly encourages young artists challenged visually and physically to express themselves and not live by other’s dictates. He echoes, “Stay alert and use your instincts.” He uses his own words of wisdom which have prepared him for independence and creative expression. He’s surely humble, but no shrinking violet. His life skills coupled with California’s Sight Center instrumental instructions regarding technology devices and visual aids helped Chappelle Letman live life with dignity. His heart is open to God’s leading and his hands become the instrument for his creative expression which have been captured by the photographer Don Snyder. Art and healing is a phenomenal partnership. Chappelle Letman’s life is evidence that healing can occur if we remain open to what God reveals in our inner visions. He receives support and is in partnership with organizations that promote independence for the visually impaired: the Ohio Arts Council, the Cleveland Sight Center and Kentucky‘s American Printing House.

Sharing: Promoting Literacy The Power of Sharing One Good Book at A Time!

http://www.values.com/your-billboards/2763-Promoting-Literacy-The-Power-Of-Sharing-One-Good-Book-At-A-Time-

Inspirational Author Linda M. Meadows and her mother, Clarinda Mose knows the enjoyment and inspiration that reading brings. They agree that reading is fundamental. Mrs. Mose is a retired English Teacher, Education Administrator and former Literacy Volunteer. This mother daughter team continues to encourage reading by passing along great books, writing heartfelt messages and promoting the value of journaling. It’s a domino effect. Friends, family and acquaintances are passing the baton spreading the same joy of promoting literacy. Have you shared a good book today?

Persistence: It’s An Awesome Character Trait!

http://www.values.com/your-billboards/8389-It-s-An-Awesome-Character-Trait-

My husband, Richard is the apple of my eye, that's no secret. But, I am particularly delighted to share with others that he is a recent Seminarian and now graduate. Friends and family applaud this wonderful accomplishment. His grade school teacher told my mother-in-law that my husband was stubborn and then recounted that that was a good thing! I'd like to instead call his stubborn determination, persistence! I am so very pleased that he's continuing in his dream of not only achieving scholarly pursuits, but also actively serving others in ministry and living out his dreams! He's not timid about life. Congratulations!

Believe: Everything Is Possible to those who believe!

http://www.values.com/your-billboards/11149-Everything-Is-Possible-To-Those-Who-Believe-

Our beloved little Courtney demonstrates by his act of sheer determination that great outcomes result from perseverance and a heart dedicated to the cause. Believing is trans-formative my friends. Be encouraged put your faith into action.

Oops, I almost forgot all about this very important billboard tribute to my friend, Dr. Saundra Cherry and the historic James A. Fields House! This was one of my first billboard attempts!

Passionate: He Captured her heart and she continued building a legacy!

http://www.values.com/your-billboards/3071-He-Captured-Her-Heart-And-She-Continued-Building-A-Historic-Legacy-

Dr. Saundra Cherry has gracefully embraced her late husband's (Elder Greg Cherry) passion and dedication of preserving the noble legacy of James Apostle Fields (an ex-slave, educator, graduate of Hampton Normal & Agricultural Institute, legislator, attorney, and home owner where the first African American Hospital in Newport News existed). There is a continued need for the greater community to support this historic landmark. Dr. Cherry remains faithful and dedicated to the vision of preserving this historic landmark and museum located in Newport News, VA. Dr. Cherry believes that this mission is important to continue so that future generations can appreciate and celebrate the amazing life of James Apostle Fields. We’re extremely grateful for Elder Greg Cherry's zeal and love for life, history, culture and the arts. We salute Dr. Saundra Cherry for continuing to build upon the legacy of a noble man. The James A. Fields House remains listed on the Virginia Landmark Register, the National Register of Historic Places, and the Virginia Civil War Trails. Museum visitors have a unique opportunity to experience firsthand what the turn of the century life resembled for African Americans living in in Newport News. We hope many more will follow Virginia’s trails leading to the James A. Fields House, embrace this passionate mission and support the vision!

Sharing With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

LOOK NO FURTHER! KICK BACK, EMBRACE GOD'S GRACE AND ENJOY A 5 STAR DEVOTIONAL!

The Blessedness of Believing A DEVOTIONAL JOURNEY OF LIFE'S LESSONS AND GOD'S PROMISES by Linda Mose Meadows (Tate Publishing) The Blessedness of Believing: A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises is expressly written with a heart that seeks after the righteousness of God with uplifting personal sentiments and prayers, referencing Holy Scripture, encouraging lyrics and deep expressions of faith. Paperback: ISBN-13: 9781602475144 Pub. Date: November 2007 Audio: ISBN-13: 9781602476479 Pub. Date: November 2007

You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. 2 I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. 3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. 4 I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. 5 I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. 6 On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. 7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. 8 I cling to you; your right hand upholds me. PSALM 63:1-8 NIV

Looking for a good read? Something that will encourage you to still your heart, uplift your spirit and confirm that God hasn't forsaken you and surely is in our midst? Well my friends I want to spread the word that you need to look no further, add this 5 STAR DEVOTIONAL:

The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises by Linda Mose Meadows (Tate Publishing)

to your personal libraries. Purchase it online or at Tate Publishing! You'll be pleased and more importantly comforted by these personal accounts that resonate and connect with your situations that hit home! Don't hesitate to add this poignant and timely devotional to your personal inspirational collections. They really do make treasured gifts also.

LOOK NO FURTHER!

KICK BACK, EMBRACE GOD'S GRACE

and

ENJOY a

5 STAR DEVOTIONAL!

Let me encourage you now to have just a taste of what's in store for you. Enjoy and read one of the fresh & inspiring devotionals by clicking Look Inside on Amazon.com @

http://www.amazon.com/Blessedness-Believing-Devotional-Journey-Promises/dp/1602475148/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195942865&sr=8-1

And be sure to check out several reader's personal testimonies on:

Barnes & Noble @

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Blessedness-of-Believing/Linda-Mose-Meadows/e/9781602475144/?itm=1&USRI=blessedness+of+believing#TABS

and/or http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/2007/09/comments.html

In these mean lean times, keep your prayer life activated, read your scriptures,incorporate The Blessedness of Believing into your daily devotion time, speak audibly (with absolute conviction) affirmations of faith, hope, and visit often these sites:

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

Tell a friend and spread the word, share the the love of God as we continue to celebrate ordinary days with extraordinary promise. Why? Because the Lord is at hand! He's right here, right now! Let him encourage your heart, trust and see! There's so much life to gain with God at the helm!

Sharing With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

IT'S NOT JUST ANOTHER DAY!

Praying at Gethsemane, by He Qi, China

www.heqiarts.com

This gift of artwork: Praying at Gethsemane, by He Qi, China received moments ago took my breathe away, I received it after I completed this morning's devotional from a parishioner: Linda L, who stated that she prays for me daily and hoped I’d like this farewell gift. Needless to say it brought tears to my eyes. I am rejoicing and humming (really loudly) Laylaha Hathaway’s song: God’s Been Just that Good!

I have seen you in the sanctuary

and beheld your power and your glory.

Because your love is better than life,

my lips will glorify you.

Psalm 63:2,3

As I prepare for another workday, I am stopping just to reflect for a moment with you that it’s evident that God loves us! Think just for a moment the many love letters, signs and wonders God sends our way. The timely news received, the check in the mail, the opportunity to reconnect with a friend, the long walk down the hospital corridor to find your loved one awaiting your visit. Oh it’s so many moments in between the hustle and bustle of living that confirms God has our best interest at heart! Was it the hand that reached for yours when only a touch would do? Was it the comfort found in friends words? It was a miracle, yes it must have been those words meant only for you. It may have been those words spoken that pricked your soul and ushered you on to move just a little higher. Love in action was surely what it was when you were rattled out of your comfort zones. What was it exactly, the need, the search and then the gift received?

This morning for me, it was the moment I redirected my attention to a small book of scriptures entitled: God’s Wisdom for Mothers 2011 by Jack Country. There was no particular section of the book I was after just some reassurance. And I must confess that what I needed was found instantly in God Delights in Mothers Who Are…Growing in Him! Manna from heaven is what I found friends. This manna was the soul nourishment I was thirsting for found in Psalm 63:1-8 (New International Version):

1 You, God, are my God,

earnestly I seek you;

I thirst for you,

my whole being longs for you,

in a dry and parched land

where there is no water.

2 I have seen you in the sanctuary

and beheld your power and your glory.

3 Because your love is better than life,

my lips will glorify you.

4 I will praise you as long as I live,

and in your name I will lift up my hands.

5 I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods;

with singing lips my mouth will praise you.

6 On my bed I remember you;

I think of you through the watches of the night.

7 Because you are my help,

I sing in the shadow of your wings.

8 I cling to you;

Cece Winans singing More Than What I Wanted

Or was it the lyrics of CeCe Winans I then happened upon on YouTube? Her song More Than What I Needed was an elixir to my spirit. My prayer uttered:

"Thank you Holy Spirit for the direction and all that I received this morning and pray my friends will also partake in God’s loving signs and wonders."

Well this morning friends be encouraged as you delight in God’s promises that the wisdom we long for comes directly from the throne room. Be inspired because it’s not just another day!

P.S. No kidding! As I concluded this writing, in walked Linda L. (on my job) smiling and holding the artwork featured at the top of this blog! She announced that the art work was for me and she hoped I'd like it. She further shared that she prays for me daily! All I can say to that is, "Look at God!" Lord, Lord I am truly humbled! Just wait my friends your gifts are on the way, they will come walking in your door, unannounced, no fanfare-when you least expect!

Sharing With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine:

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

REMEMBERING GOD'S FAITHFULNESS~ A MOTHER'S DAY TRIBUTE

"Love may be the matter that keeps the stars in the firmament.

It may be. Love allows you to be tough and tender.

Love affords you the ability to be courageous."

~Maya Angelou~

Happy Mother’s Day to all nurturing hearts that

demonstrate the power of unconditional love.

Johnny, Stevie, Eric and Linda's

WONDERFUL MAMA!

“Know therefore that the Lord your God, is God;

He is the faithful God,

keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations

of those who love Him and keep His commands”
(Deuteronomy 7:9)

Probably one of the most difficult journeys I‘ve ever taken was my faith journey with my husband and son. This wasn’t just another intimate moment at the dinner table or a ride through the park; this journey was to a place I knew nothing about. Relocating to Virginia has been more than just a physical move it became a spiritual journey as well.

This journey has taken me to a place where God has gotten our full attention. Our faith walk is now active and underway. Together my husband and I embraced a new faith walk filled with God’s promises. More than eleven years ago transitioning from Buffalo to Virginia was a difficult for me, my support system and loving mother weren’t in arms reach, that was tough! My mother, Clarinda is an absolute jewel- she is a devoted and caring woman. She has been there for me when my world was tumbling in; she was my reliable tutor and backup for my son when he was a little guy. Mom is often my sounding board and trusted friend. When I need sage spiritual guidance and girl talk it‘s definitely her. Her counsel is comforting, never self serving and self centered. I love her for all of that, especially her independence and conviction.

By example, my mother has instilled in me to be a woman of hope and to desire and strive to live above mediocrity. There’s a big world with so much good to give and receive. She encourages me further to trust God, listen to my inner voice and have faith in the Holy Scripture. This is another birthday and Mother’s Day fast approaching. What gift can I possibly give a mother who has loved unconditionally and is continually been generous beyond measure to four children and now there are grandchildren and extended family? She’s traveled to Greece, walked the beaches and roads of Dakar, Senegal, road on the motor bikes in the Bahamas and tasted Swiss chocolate in Geneva, Switzerland. It’s easy to discern she appreciates life!

Mama, who like me, many years ago traveled from Washington, D.C to a place with her husband and had to quickly adapt. God was right there, even in her seasons of lack and loneliness- that was not the end! As a child I witnessed her stretch meals, beautifully create my Easter ensembles and kindergarten sneaker bag sewn by hand. My brothers and I were groomed to love learning and be respectful. She burned the midnight oil in undergrad and then graduate school. Our bed time was Mama’s study time! I remind her that she told us in no uncertain terms that, “I am not going to have dumb children, get those book bags out!” She laughs at that now. Many days she was under tremendous stress, but her loving disposition towards us never changed!

I am grateful that God kept my mother anchored when she faced hardships, especcially when my brothers and I needed her so much, when she couldn’t always lift up a prayer.

She didn’t topple over when life’s disappointments came. She continually assures me that when difficulties arise, “This too shall pass.” I marvel at my mother’s inner beauty when I think of her, speak with her and happily gaze upon her warm face. This retired English Teacher enjoys her friends and family, loves sharing books, a good scrabble game, watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. If there’s a challenge she has a word for you! Spirits are lifted with her genuine loving words of encouragement. In turn, I realize now I can confidently share with my mother the gift she 's easily provided me and my siblings to:

• WHOLE HEARTEDLY EMBRACE OUR HEAVENLY FATHER,
• HAVE AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE,
• CONTINUALLY DEMONSTRATE A FAITHFUL LOVING SPIRIT,
• STRIVE TO MAINTAIN AN ENDURING LOVE,
• TUCK IN OUR HEARTS SCRIPTURES-THE SWEET LOVE OF THE LORD,
• FOCUS ON GOD'S PROMISES AND
• RECALL & REMEMBER THE POSSIBILITIES OF GOOD ARE INFINITE!
  

Friends with divine expectation, I believe we can continue on our life’s journey. My dear Mama has given me the wonderful gift of God’s faithfulness. I celebrate my mother’s legacy with you who are holding God’s hand as we journey with faith in our hearts and hope in our spirits.

Sharing With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

WHOEVER DRINKS THE WATER

“But whoever drinks the water that I will give him will never become thirsty again.

The water that I will give him will become a well of water for him, springing up to eternal life."

NISV John 4:14

What an amazing gift to receive, nothing in a box to tinker with, no instructions to decode, misplace and then locate in our clutter baskets and kitchen cabinet drawers! Not a gift to dust, or safely secure so that it isn’t tampered with or like a fine piece of porcelain displayed in our bellowed china cabinets, but instead a gift of empowered life! Oh my friends this wonderful gift alters the course of our life and beckons us to stop what we are doing, to abandon our entangled lifestyles. These words Jesus spoke induct us! It’s a pronouncement of relief and serenity for a provision of eternal life.

Yes my friends that’s what this living is all about, this reflective Lenten season ushers us into the remembrance of some very promising words! Jesus spoke to a woman hiding out from her potential, stuck in dead-end and defeated relationships that smothered and hurt but to now instead embrace new possibilities of hope. Her encounter with Jesus was the hallmark for her experiencing eternal life not a temporal existence but on a permanent basis!

Friends let me encourage you to meet God at your personal wells, your places of trials, discomforts and ambivalences.

Trust that He already knows all about what concerns you. Let humility erect your truth with your words, underneath your words. Yes, He’s a prayer away, alive in the scriptures and in the language of love! Go on let Jesus show you yourself, but more importantly build a bridge to our all wise, all loving all, all knowing Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ! See you at the well!

Words To Encourage Our Hearts from:

Linda Mose Meadows

Blogger (Celebrating Ordinary Days With Extraordinary Promises, The Blessedness of Believing ) Inspirational Author (The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises (Tate Publishing), Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Co-Editor of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/
http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

MEET YOU AT THE WELL: HAVING A HEART-TO-HEART WITH JESUS!

Change and Transformation by Father Earnest Graham

Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman

¹³ Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, ¹⁴ but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

¹⁵ The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.”

John 4: 13,14

Reference Scripture: John 4:1-26 (New International Version, ©2011)

All of our lives we’ve heard words, words that have molded, shaped, prompted and prodded us to either to be at a standstill or words that literally gave us wings to soar. Not long ago I received an amazing gift from Ann Meyer, I think of it as a welcome gift to St. Martin’s Administrative Team. This gift was an unexpected literary treasure entitled Guerrillas of Grace-Prayers for the Battle by Ted Loder (see inside front cover).

Listen to Me Under My Words

O God, I come to you now

Asa child to my Mother,

Out of the cold which numbs into the warm who cares.

Listen to me inside,

Under my words

Where the shivering is,

In the fears

Which freeze my living,

In the angers

Which chafe my attending,

In the doubts

Which chill my hoping,

In the events

Which shrivel my thanking,

In the pretenses

Which stiffen my loving.

Listen to me, Lord

As a Mother

And hold me warm,

And forgive me.

Soften my experiences

Into wisdom,

My pride

Into acceptance,

My longing

Into trust,

And soften me

Into love

And to others

And to you

Maybe it was the Holy Spirit, maybe it was just a woman of God that sensed I would benefit tremendously from an inspirational book, or just possibly it was our preceding conversation about the office atmosphere that lovingly erects ministry and insulates joy, peace and caring! I don’t know, but I do know that when I read, I began to include this gift of prayers as part of my work day devotional, the words of the prayers scaled my heart matters and reminded me of how sacred my relationship is with God. It’s not taken lightly. So I easily connected with the prayer Listen to Me Under My Words. And really appreciate how God helped make the prayer so relevant to John 4.

So as I read John 4: 1-26 I appreciated the Samaritan woman’s frank and direct conversation had with Jesus. She attempted to earnestly converse. What really seemed apparent for me was that while she spoke, there were deeper issues- layers of words under her words which revealed her disappointment, her outlook, and ultimately her humility. Her sarcasm and loneliness were no stumbling block for Jesus’s replies. Her quizzical nature couldn’t stump or thwart the reality that what Jesus desired for her far outweighed her reality! She had stumbled upon a moment in time that changed her and many generations later to come! She visited the well at a strategic time that God had divinely orchestrated. Jesus’ words of life would become a wellspring to be reinvigorated, renewed and experience transformed natural and spiritual living! Let’s make our way with haste to that well! Don’t you want to go?

Published in Lent Devotional (The Journey to Surrender) 2011 Lenten @ St. Martin's Episcopal Church

Listen to Ce Ce Winans sing: I Surrender ALL and let the music minister to your spirit and renew your outlook!

Revived & Overjoyed!
Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/