I AM A CHRISTIAN

The least I can do to remember Dr Maya Angelou is to post one of her most powerful poem entitled I Am A Christian, apart from the poem resonating with my sentiments, it is also a spiritual awakening, inspiration, introspection and forward thinking about our journey in the Lord. This poem kinda take off pressure from our shoulders, not that we need to live recklessly though. But it paints a wonderful picture of our lives. She is the author of many other great work such as Phenomenal Woman, Still I Rise etc..Enjoy reading I am a Christian...

When I say... "I am a Christian"

I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin."

I'm whispering "I was lost,"

Now I'm found and forgiven.

When I say..."I am a Christian"

I don't speak of this with pride.

I'm confessing that I stumble

and need CHRIST to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian"

I'm not trying to be strong.

I'm professing that I'm weak

and need HIS strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"

I'm not bragging of success.

I'm admitting I have failed

and need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian"

I'm not claiming to be perfect,

My flaws are far too visible

but, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian"

I still feel the sting of pain,

I have my share of heartaches

So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"

I'm not holier than thou,

I'm just a simple sinner

who received God's good grace, somehow.

RIP DR MAYA ANGELOU

Forbidden Thoughts

Like Ifani said in one of the interviews when asked about calling names such as Boity, Zizo Beda etc. in his songs. He simply answered that like any other guy growing up, you fancy those celebs and fantasise about them. You reverie about them on a regular basis. Some of us used to have their sexy photo pull-out from a Bona or Drum magazine displayed in our bedrooms to ogle. That's how close we came to them.

One thing for sure which I know is that we think a lot of forbidden thoughts, they can be negative, positive, raunchy, steamy, explicit, crude, invigorating, evil and comedic. Many of our thoughts never get to see the lights of day, they remain just that. This is necessarily not a bad thing, considering the amount of thoughts that goes through our minds on a daily basis. I remember growing up, in those days physical punishment was order of the day - whether justified or not. My uncle would improperly beat me up, and immediately or later after the punishment ask me to hold the ladder while he climb up the roof to fix some leaks. I will then wish in my heart that he falls down or something happen to him so he can also feel the pain. On more than one occasion when I had wished that, it happened. I always saw that as a revenge for the punishment meted out on me unjustified. I saw it as Gods way of comforting me. The pain was not fatally to my uncle but it served me good that he also got the taste of his own medicine. Children and youngsters then had no rights, no mind and cannot feel anything emotionally.

I think today our forbidden thoughts are more refined and fine-tuned. Some of the forbidden thoughts come to pass, as most of us like playing precariously. The element of vulnerability and being caught is just too fanciful to ignore. Experts normally say you are addicted to stay in trouble. If you are not trying to get in trouble, life become mind-numbing. We see it as daunting task to be subjugated.

Most of us have this forbidden thoughts that we enjoy, especially the positive, steamy and comedic. Disclaimer: This are just thoughts and will remain just that. Have you thought about the office married man or woman that just meet all your fantasies as played out in your mind? How about your lecturer that just dresses the way you had imagined? Your preacher, pastor and spiritual leader? How about the nanny? How about the prostitute? How about you as a comedian, singer, drummer, pianist etc. Forbidden should be those if voiced, people will look at you in awe. I will say let's enjoy the forbidden thoughts and keep them pure, naughty and positive. I would like to hear some of your forbidden thoughts.

Speak

We have different kinds of people, some speak less, some more and some moderate. They say the less you speak, the more people listen (less is more and more is less). Some also says action speaks louder than words. An average human being utter about 20 000 words in a day, with women at a max of 20 000 while men are at 16 000 max. We speak a lot of words without consideration. If I had to ask myself a question, of the many words that I spoke today, how many do I remember? I am sure the answer would be less than 10 % of the 16 000. To a certain extent this means that many of the words we speak are not worth remembering. The reason can be, normal conversation differs from real conversations. For the purpose of explaining this normal conversation will be those that may not relate to any specific consequences (depending on the situation) while real refers to those that may result in serious consequences (such as a statement from the President). It might be difficult to really say some conversation do not have consequences (depending on how you view things, all conversations may literally have some consequences). However, we will not dwell on that aspect of the discussion. Should the words spoken be in or out of context?

My main claim of the discussion is that words have power? This is a topical issue and we will see why. Since my claim is that words have power, does this have a positive or negative effect? Let's look at this, it would seem that some people speak certain words, and they mean life or death to the country or community. President such as Robert Mogabe, Bashar Al-Assad and Thomas Sankara etc. have spoken words that resulted in many people being killed and country transformed. We also see that if a celebrity tweets or post a facebook status, it makes news headline. Kanye West and Kim Kardashians if they breathe, move, sleep and cough, we read about it. Whatever comes out of their mouth is word. While you and I may blabber many words and none of them make it anywhere. This does testify to my claim that words do have power. However, it also seems to refer to the person saying the words for them to have power. Also said in a certain context. But, is this the entire truth? The likelihood is high that it is the truth, for example, we are allowed to joke, speak nonsense or without thinking properly. Does the words of comedians have power? Well, I don't have the answer yet.

Since I have made my claim clear? I am now left with this questions. Does every word that we speak have power? Do we have to change our tone for some of our words to have power? I am mostly jovial, and at times some people think I am not serious when I say most things. Do I have to give warning and say 'now I am serious', therefore every word spoken in that hour or two may have serious consequences? Let's find the answers from the bible.

1. Proverbs 18: 21 says that death and life [are] in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. This means that if you speak more, be cautions, as whatever you say might have serious consequences. Keywords death and life...in your tongue. It can kill people. 
   
2. In Matthew 21:22 it state that …all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Ask in prayer means uttering words. Well prayer is normally in context and this testify to that point. Some of the things may not be said in prayer. Thus your prayer is important. 
   
3. In Matthew 12: 34 - 37 the message bible put straight, you have minds like a snake pit! How do you suppose what you say is worth anything when you are so foul-minded? It's your heart, not the dictionary, which gives meaning to your words. A good person produces good deeds and words season after season. An evil person is a blight on the orchard. Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going to come back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation. What are careless words, will try to find answers to this as is crucial. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
   
4. In Genesis 1: 3 And God said, Let there be light; and there was light. In Chapter 1, God spoke many things that come into being, alive and existence…just one word. Your word maybe life or death.
   
5. In Romans 4: 17 … calls (speak) things into existence that do not exist. This means our words creates things that are not existing as yet. We just speak the words and things that we need become alive...are created anew. The power and authority of the word ..create 
   
6. In Isaiah 55:11 it state … My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return to Me void [without producing any effect, useless], but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. Your word achieves that which you purpose it to do…a joke will mean a joke as you purpose it, is that right? The word you speak into a certain situation will come back with consequences that you sent it out for… determine the outcome.
   
7. In John 1: 1 …word already existed (spoken), was with God (spoken by) and was God (made alive), verse 14 state, the Word became human and lived among us. Your word that you speak can become human…people can learn from it. You can see it being lived or live it yourself...by the virtue of speaking it. When you speak the word you put it into action.
   
8. In Ezekiel 12: 25 it state for I am the Lord; I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall be performed (come to pass); it shall be no more delayed or prolonged, for in your days, O rebellious house, I will speak the word and will perform it, says the Lord God. Another emphasise from the bible, God says the words the He shall speak shall be performed. Since He is in us…the words that we shall speak shall also be performed. No more delays or prolonging.
   
9. In the book of Joel, God spoke that at that day I will pour my spirit upon young men and women and they shall prophesy and speak in unknown tongues. This occasion came to effect in Acts 2: 16 - 20. This again shows the power of the spoken word, in the form of a prophesy. Some spoken words may come in to effect after some time and not immediately.
   
10. In Acts 2: 21 it states …whoever shall call (speak/ask) upon the name of the Lord [invoking, adoring, and worshiping the Lord-Christ] shall be saved. If you declare and decree it with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, definitely you shall be saved.
    
11. In Job 22: 27 - 28 states that you will make your prayer to Him, and He will hear you, and you will pay your vows. You shall also decide and decree a thing, and it shall be established for you; and the light [of God's favor] shall shine upon your ways. It is clear that we need to make a decision of what we consider important and decree that particular thing and it shall be established for us. This decision answers the question in point 3 about careless words. If you made a decision, your words cannot be careless.
    
12. The answer about the joke, whether it is considered serious or not, in Acts 2: 13 -15 but others made a joke of it and derisively said, they are simply drunk and full of sweet [intoxicating] wine. But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: You Jews and all you residents of Jerusalem, let this be [explained] to you so that you will know and understand; listen closely to what I have to say. For these men are not drunk, as you imagine, for it is [only] the third hour (about 9:00 a.m.) of the day. The bible talks about the joke that was made, in the midst of serious Holy business. But Peter had to be serious about it and bring the people to the attention that it is not a joking/mocking matter. This shows that there is place for jokes but must be declared upfront. Clear separation is important. Jokes should be just that.

The following scriptures have answer the pertinent questions raised above. Yes, words have power. Every word that we speak can have power if we purpose it in our hearts. Yes, sometimes you have to calm the situation to bring about seriousness of the matter, this can involve changing the tone of your voice. Like rejoice with those who are rejoicing and mourn with those who are mourning. Comedians, can they make jokes, Yes, they can, as long as they declare upfront and also purpose it in their words. People unconsciously declare how they are going to die seriously and it happen just the way it was purposed. I shall cover this topic in much detail in future post. There is more evidence and revelations. 

Are We Well-Balanced or Well Informed…Know The Difference!!!

The concept of being a well-balanced human is appealing, attractive and sounds ideal. In reality is there such a human being? That is poised, know everything and is still normal. My answer is a big NO. Research has shown that we are incapable of being a well-balanced individuals. In our minds, we think we are, atleast most of us. In reality it is not true. We try very hard to be balanced and we fail daily - dismally nogal. Being informed does not equal being well balanced. Being well informed means you read a lot and know about many aspects of current issues and trends. Well-Balanced is having good or equal amounts of all the necessary parts of something. I differentiate the two by, word (well informed) and deed (well balanced). You can be well informed and not be well balanced but you cannot be balanced if you are not well informed. I am using well balanced as a metaphor as I strongly believe we are not but we attempt to.

We have managers and leaders that mentor us on a daily basis. They are not well balanced, they always show bias to a certain extent, either the individual or the aspects of work. Many of us comes from a certain background which normally shapes us. It pioneered us into the world, our basis will tend to refer to our area of interest and expertise. If there is anything we do better all of us, is to compartmentalise. We choose which area we would like to focus on and we do it. As a friend of mine always say a friend to many is a friend to no one. Jack of all trades and master of none. It is unimaginable to have a human being who knows each and every aspect or subject in the same amount of details. Most people that attempt to be well balanced, end up utterly confused. A well balanced individual in reality got to live all the 11 cultures and their beliefs in SA, in the same amount of details. Not thinking about the world over. However, it is easy to read and learn about the same to a larger degree. See!!!

What we actually do in reality is specialise. We specialise in many things and excel in doing it. Those things that you do well without much effort are your strength and should focus on them. Research has shown that most people that are trying to be well balanced, have a weak belief system. Their belief shift as the situation changes. They are vulnerable and do not have strong base - foundation. To a greater degree are shaky. In the extreme practice heathenism. Which one can argue that it is ethnicity as well? The fact is we are not well balanced and we will never be.

Now stop trying to be well balanced and strive to be well informed. Your brain can never be tired from learning from other people and the world we live in. You need to accept yourself and acknowledge that you will never know everything in this world. Then choose your belief system and follow it to the tee and still be well informed. Your base control system will shields and protect you. Having a strong system that you believe in means - it's unshaken, grounded, rooted and established. Lastly one can be well balanced within a certain context. I am also committing the same offence trying to write an all-inclusive post. But I fail…there are things that I missed. That's just shows it is impossible.

Donald Matjuda Psalm of Praise

1. Lord I thank you, I bless your holy name
   
2. You have showed that you are omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent
   
3. You never cease to amaze me…you are always on time, never late
   
4. You have shamed the devil once again...and proved that he is a liar
   
5. You are strong when I am weak, when I have no plan, when I cannot understand, when I exhausted my options, when I cannot figure it out, when I about to lose hope
   
6. But God…
   
7. You show up in many ways…you show up in Kakamus, Keimoes, Kenhardt…everywhere I am Lord you are there
   
8. Thank you once again…I can do nothing apart from you Lord

See It and Get It

Are you in a rut? You want to get out? Are you stuck in relationship or job that you do not want to be in? If the answer to any of the questions is yes. Then visualise the new, see it and go get it. Comfort in unideal situation is a killer. What is it that you want? How bad do you want it? What are you willing to give or do to get what you want? If you want anything, there should at least be a plan - explicit or implicit. Marketers are very creative and clever in chorus, they make us buy things that we never knew we needed. They mastered the art of creating a need. They create a hype and develop a discomfort. They make you feel dissatisfied with your current situation. Well, that is exactly what we need to do in order to move from one place to another. Until you create discomfort and dissatisfaction of your current situation, you are going nowhere slowly. Your current situation must be your worst nightmare, on the extreme. It must be unsettling you. It must drive you to new heights, or rather catapult there. But if you are settled and content with your current situation then rejoice.

First you need to identify your ideal situation, most of us know exactly what we want and how we want it. Then visualise it and make a 'damn' plan to get it. This can be a process oriented or end product - your destiny. The most challenging thing why we don't achieve what we need is because of us. We haven't made up our minds, we are doubtful, we are willing to settle for second best and are afraid. I know a colleague of mine, who has LLB, Master's Degree and Diplomas but settled down a little until is too late. Now the qualifications are displayed in his office but he is not even a manager, neither is where he would like to be. He never created the need and discomfort in the first place. There is no reason, not to create dissatisfaction with your current situation. As they say if you would like to quit there are thousand reasons to do so. You have to keep pushing, put yourself in the space to obtain and achieve what you would like. I remember when I was fat, I looked at myself once and twice. Then I decided to do something about it. Yes, I did, I never allowed anything to come between me and my goals - target. The desire to lose weight was stronger and I have achieved it. I also created a discomfort about my image, then I made a plan and implemented it. Now I am maintaining the image. It works if you do something about it…one thing at a time. Importantly have a plan and be realistic.

Finally, you need to have hope, faith and trust in your abilities to get what you want. If you are not ready to move closer to your ideal self, you will not create any discomfort. There is biblical backing to this process. First in Hebrews 12:4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. This means if you really want something, it must mean shedding blood. Habakkuk 2: 2-3 states; And then God answered: "Write this. Write what you see. Write it out in big block letters so that it can be read on the run. This vision-message is a witness pointing to what's coming. It aches for the coming - it can hardly wait! And it doesn't lie. If it seems slow in coming, wait. It's on its way. It will come right on time. While Romans 4:17 …calls into existence things that don't even exist (speaks of future events with as much certainty as though they were already past). You speak into existence without intimidation. Without faith and hope, we are basically just living. We all hope that the sun will rise tomorrow. That is enough to keep you alive. We all hope that things will be better one day. Hence Hebrews 11: 1 Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, [a]the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality. The message bible put it this way; this faith - is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It's our handle on what we can't see. Visualise the new, see it and go get it. Listen to Myron Butler's song Speak while you read. 

Cheating!!!

Women cheat because they are mentally attracted and men cheat because they are sexually attracted. This is an exhausted topic, but still sits at the very heart of our daily living. It's one of the things that happen more often than imagined. Ideally we would not like it to happen, but in reality it just happens. Some people can't help it, some its intentional, some deliberate, some its weaknesses, some its lust, some its attractions, some is lack of attention from partner or spouse, some it's part of growth, some is a stage, some is alcohol or stress driven and others no reason at all. Whatever the case may be, the fact remains, it happens and it will continue to happen beyond our lifetime.

When I was young, before I was involved, I never used to understand and was merciless, didn't want to tolerate anything. I had written down my relationship constitution and if contravened - red card. But today cheating has become so complicated that it needs to be defined within each and every relationship. Each relationship should define what is cheating, unlike in the early days cheating used to have a universal definition. It's very interesting the world we are living in. This is not a bad thing though. It actually empowers the couple to own their relationship, other than to manage it within the universal context and rules. The same with marriage, managing this according to universal laws is suicidal. For long we have done things that we never really understood because they were passed onto us and we just adopted them without understanding the origin and context. One heritage specialist said, culture and heritage is a human imprint on the landscape or lifestyle. Individualising this - to invent/imprint a new culture on the current lifestyle. A culture that we will have control over, other than adopting other peoples way of living and ideology. We are sometimes too concerned about other people's opinion, that they define things for us. While it is not that bad, and should happen. It should not be the law or commandment that cannot be broken. Go ahead and define what is cheating in the context of your union or relationship. Both of you need to know what's the definition - so that nobody is found wanting.

Let's have a look at the statement, women cheat because of mental attraction: I should point out that it is not all women that do this. Women are attracted by the mental stimulation - psychologically and intellectually. The invisible, unknown and unseen. However, research has shown many times that women are generally emotional beings. Hence when one connects with a woman, you need to do it on an emotional level. If you win that, they are likely to open up, and one is likely to get many other things. It takes a while to romance a woman properly unless if they fall under the 10% that do not need emotional connection before opening up. However, of the 10% that do not need connection, afterwards, after the deed, they also tend to develop the need - connection. The need is developed on a different level than with their real partner or those that they cheated on, if any. After the deed/s, the event is likely to become a regular until a strong disagreement occurs, or an event that may jeopardise the main relationship, if in one. If not, the meetings will continue. If in one, then they may cut it off gradually or fix it. I must say though that there is a new breed of women - unpredictable. They have invalidated popular beliefs.

Men are attracted by the visual, they are stimulated by what they see - physiological. Then they want to fulfil their desire instantly. Well some men know exactly what makes women weak, and target those spots. Make love to her mentally (mind), they say. Men are able to use the traditional method of proposing to a woman while they know that the aim is to sleep with her and leave afterwards. They don't mind waiting for 6 months and sometimes a year to get that one thing and leave. Strange though. It is even easier if they are not interested. They can prolong it as much as it takes. While in the other hand, the poor woman is developing the emotional connection thinking that this thing will go somewhere. Not knowing that, it is not about to take off. Most men are perfidious. Men are able to easily shuffle two to three women at any particular time. Why, because there is no emotional connection. In juggling, they still do everything right in her books. Especially the players, are quite good. They know what to say, and how to say it. Even sometimes play the emotional connection game. Men know very well that women, all levels, age, race and colour loves attention - compliment and sing her tune, then you are in. Or sometimes ignore purposeful, then the attention is given to him.

Both men and women like the element of danger in their lives, always doing something under wraps to different levels. Sometimes it's purely getting attracted to someone you are not supposed to and can't help it. By the way attractions can be managed, because they are likely to happen as long as we live. I must warn though that cheating has serious consequences to atleast one person. Your behaviour is covered in one of the above though it may not be exact. The topic is huge and I will continue to cover aspects of it.

I Am Happy…

Happiness release endorphins (natural hormones in your body) which combat stress. This are released by certain activities, one of them being happiness. People that are natural happy hardly ever have stress and related ailments. If I were a president for a day I would make everybody happy and make them dance to the tune by Pharrell Williams - Happy (soundtrack from the movie - Despicable Me 2) and album entitled GIRL. There is a list of factors that make us happy, which in turn releases endorphins, which reduce your stress level.

1. Smile
2. Exercise
3. Eat dark chocolate in moderation
4. Choose to be happy
5. Eat something - whatever makes you happy in moderation
6. Laughter
7. Be silly - don't take yourself too serious
8. Use all your senses - touch, smell, hear and sight
9. Music - all kinds - one of the biggest triggers for happiness
10. Socialise/Interaction

This are very few that makes us happy, there are many more, you are welcome to post more. Let's get more people to be happy.

Talking about music, Pharrel William's song, Happy is a beautiful tune and has taken the world by storm. Especially when it appeals and transcends beyond race, demographics and nationality. Moreover, this song has been adopted and personalised across the world. A French couple decided to create a website for all the videos uploaded on You Tube about the song, check it out Here. Pharrel spoke to Oprah recently, and touched on the globalisation of the song, he was emotional and even cried. In recent times, the song that nearly got the same attention was PSY Gangnam Style. Check out the extract from the interview with Oprah and the song from You Tube below, respectively. I AM HAPPPPPPPPYYYYYY...clap along if you are…

I Am Compliant…What Are You!!!

I am reading a book, Boundaries by Dr Henry Cloud & Dr John Townsend. The book is about When to say yes, How to say no and take control of your life. In chapter 3, they speak about people characteristics and boundary problems we have, in order for us to understand how and when to say no or yes. We first need to understand ourselves. This is not one of those personality traits. The reason for this blog post is because I could truly and sincerely identify with this boundary problems. I face them more often…and every time I remember that I need to tighten my life in certain aspects and areas. At most times it indicate our weaknesses, which we do not like being reminded of, on a daily basis. Although there is benefit. As we can refine and fine tune our lives and rectify certain mistakes that we overlook. Here are the problems we have. See if you can identify with one of them and say which one.

1. Compliant: Saying Yes to the Bad
This kind of people have fuzzy and inarticulate boundaries. They yield into the demands and needs of other people. They can't stand alone, distinct from other people who want something from them. This kind of people pretend to like the same books, TV shows, movies, hangout spots with their friends or people they know. So that they can get along. They normally minimise their differences with others so as to avoid conflict. In essence compliants change their stance to suit the situation just like a chameleon. After a while it's hard to differentiate them from their environment. This cause them an inability to say no, which is inescapable. This enhances the inability to refuse evil to a greater extent – prevent one from recognising evil. Often realises late when in a dangerous position or bad company. The spiritual and emotional radar is broken. Inability to guard their hearts. They fear hurting other people's feelings. Compliance to harsh conscience. Lastly compliance take on too many responsibilities and set too few boundaries.

2. Avoidants: Saying No to the goods

The kind of people that are unable to ask for help, recognise their own needs and allow others in their space. They totally withdraw when in need, thus not asking for support or aid. Their boundaries are walled so strong, they are suffocating in them. As they do not allow bad out and good in. They are sealed, nobody should come near. Opening up to anyone is impossible, even to God at times. There is inflexibility towards God given needs. Their legitimate needs and wants are seen as something bad, destructive and shameful. 

• Compliance Avoidants are people who have no boundaries where they need them and they have boundaries where they do not need them. 

3. Controllers: Not Respecting others Boundaries

One of the most common boundaries, most people fall under this category. They have problem hearing and accepting other people's boundaries. To them, no is simply a challenge to change the other person's mind. They simply do not respects other people's limits. At times, they yield responsibility in their own life while controlling others. I know some marriages and relationship like that. They believe no means maybe and maybe means Yes. In most times, they are bullies, manipulative and aggressive. Controllers look for someone to carry their load in addition to the person's individual load. Two kinds of controllers; 

• Aggressive Controllers: don't listen to others boundaries. Run over other people's fences like a tank. At times verbally and or physically abusive. Are simply unaware about others boundaries.
• Manipulative Controller: Are less honest. Try to persuade people out of their boundaries and talk others into yes. They implicitly wangle circumstances to get their way. Use guilt messages and persuade others to carry their burden. 

4. Nonresponsive: Not hearing the needs of others

It is when your partner does not allow you time to get hurt and heal. Your partner can get angry and do all sorts of things. But immediately you try to get angry and air your frustrations, then problems starts. He/She gets angry for you getting angry. Normally when you pour your heart to that kind of person, the respond will be like, if you don't like the way things are done, change them, change your view of them or the way you feel about them. Life's is not a bed of roses. This person shows no compassion for your intimate issues. Seems distant and not understanding. Inability to express your neediness. It is the failure of the other partner to connect with her partner - neglecting his/her responsibility towards the other person's needs. Lack of attention to love the other person as they should. Absent minded and often self-absorbed. Two kinds of nonresponsives;

• People with critical spirit towards others, dislike being incomplete themselves thus ignore other's needs.
• People who are self-absorbed in own desires and needs they completely exclude others (narcissism).

I am sure you will find yourself in the midst of all of this. I fall more in the number on category. It does have to be exactly the same to fit your situation. At time there are people who feature in all of the above. We manage this all differently and are able to survive - though I hope we learn from some of this challenges to be better people. The good thing about identifying what's wrong with you, is that you are able to deal with it and try to fix - unlike not knowing.

Why Do We Always Have To Prove Our Capabilities At Our Work Places

I came a long way, spent many sleepless nights preparing for work, for the following day. I worked overtime, thinking to myself I am impressing my bosses. However, everything seems far-fetched. It looked as if I am not penetrating even the mere surface. Despite the qualifications one holds, one still needs to show capability to do work excellently. It is a known fact that qualifications does not equal good workmanship and industriousness. Many of us, Africans, needs to always do extra to prove our value and worth, especially the work place that is characterised by white people in top management positions. We never seems to do enough to a certain extent. Well, I am a testimony of that. The experience is not sweet and wonderful, it feels like a personal attack more than anything.

I used work for one organisation, I was in a steering committee, and happen to be the only black person. I must admit that I was a bit naïve then. But what boggled my mind was the fact that any suggestions from me never seemed to hold any value. I just kept on suggesting. Then, I could not really read between the lines. I just accepted everything as the norm. But I still soldiered on - unconsciously proving my worth. I remember an event, where one of my steering committee member asking me why was I always quite. I was not even aware of that. In retrospect, I think I was selected to be the only darkie, representing the views of many black people out there. Guess what kind of projects I used get? Those based in Khayelitsha and Bluedowns, mainly poor coloured and black areas.

Fast track to recent events, after 12 years of work experience, I still have to prove myself. I have to double my effort. I obliged as well, I wanted to be every-where - to be visible. I used to be competitive. Also put in lot of work hours - overtime. Never wanted to take leave, thinking I am missing a lot. Always at work, while my other supervisory peers enjoyed being off and when they get back, their work is waiting for them. I thought being off is a sin, and if I am not at work my competitors will do/take my work and displace me, move me deeper into the abyss of non-recognition and anonymity.

In addition, in some of the high level meetings I attended, my suggestions were still not considered valid. There are certain people if they suggest something, it's considered the true solution (music to everybody's ears). Presently if this happens I show strong disapproval and make it known that it is not supposed to be like that. I reason, lay down the facts, sometimes in silent - to let them know that its incorrect practice. There is no need to appease anybody any-longer. If I deserve something I will get it. At times I face purposeful exclusion, but one got to face it and overcome it by simply focusing on your work and do it to your best of ability.

However, sometimes last year 2013 (when I started with my Msc. Proj Man), somehow a light bulb moment occurred. I just felt an overwhelming transformation internally. I never really cared about high level meetings, I could take off, and when I come back work will still  be waiting for me. What was revealed though is that the more I distanced myself and cared less, at times purposeful, but most times genuinely, the more I was needed & wanted. It is happening even now. I can skip a meeting, and the meeting will come to me the following day. Or the project won't move until my inputs are provided. While in the early days, or just the other year 2012. They will move on, and never consider my input - my other supervisory peer could have been asked to provide input on my behalf. It is a tough road I travelled, and I know I am not alone. Many of us are facing it. There are things that we need to do though to get to where I am currently. I will share with you in the second part of the post. I know that I have provided one side of the story. I know at times I needed to go through certain gruelling times so that I can develop the mettle. But sadly most of us face the above situations, and we remain in gloomy, unhappy, stressful and at times depressing work place. Not because we don't know but simply because we are black. 

Before I conclude I would like to quote Lerato Mbele, who attested the very same sentiments (in February 2014 Destiny Magazine Issue) but have now calmed down. See below.

Could You Recognise Your Loved Ones Dressed In Homeless Attire...

I came across this so called 'social experiment video' on the net, the objective is to see whether you can recognise your loved ones dressed in homeless clothes. They make-up your parents, wife, girlfriend and or friend etc. After the make-up, they look like homeless people indeed - rough and rugged. Then, they put them on the street and film the whole shebang. Then they make their loved ones to walk past in the street in which their made-up (transformed) loved ones are placed. The do this without forewarning the other loved ones, that their loved ones are on the street posing as homeless.

Anyway you guessed it right...they all could not recognise their loved ones - failed the test. When I first read about it, I anticipated the results to be that way. It would have been difficult for them to notice, because some of them left their loved ones at home, work, school, holiday etc. So, they couldn't consciously look out for them on the street. Even if they did notice some similarity, they will ignore it - shrugging it off. How many of us...really recognise the landscapes and landmarks around where we stay. Quite a few of us do that. Most of us just drive in and out, and we cant tell the difference in some changes that occur on our way to work/home or any place we visit regularly. Unless if it is major. 

I am not sure whether the experiment really achieved its objective though. It seems as if the assumption would have been that they will not recognise them which was essentially proven right. Which probably will mean that we do not recognise our environment. I think most of us would not have...!!!One might ask what is the point for the study/experiment. Methinks the following; 

1. It was to shamefully exposes our increased ignorance, when it comes to feeling sorry for the homeless. 
2. Whether peoples still take out time to stop briefly and greet the homeless or even offer a peace-meal (some still do religiously). 
3. Our concentration levels on the road has diminished as most of us think about a lot of things - our stress level has risen.
4. I also cant ignore the idea that keeps popping in my mind that, the experiment meant to vilify you and I about ability to recognise our loved ones, or anybody for that matter. We are too concerned with ourselves - selfish. Or simply we just don't care. Have a look at the video and leave your comment below.       

Welcome To My House Party

I was invited to house...which most people that do not call themselves party animals prefer. They are normally well organised unless otherwise there is a bad apple that normally stir things up. If invited to some of this party, and you are not sure what to expect always go with someone you know. Have a back up person, have some money and the number for the cab, in case you do not agree with the mood or the way things are done. If you are driving and do not drink even better. Simply get yourself home. Taking along someone you know is always beneficial as you can have someone to talk to. Oh by the way...do everything in moderation please.

This house party here was the bomb, thoroughly enjoyed it and luckily I knew few people. Thanks to Mr and Mrs Nkonyana.

Mmei wa ga Matjuda Songs of Psalms

My God, Abba Father, King of Kings, The Lord Your majesty

You made ways for me when I had lost faith, trust, belief and hope – I was in despair.

I will cling unto you, Yahweh is the sweetest name I know

You renewed me inside, you transformed my heart, you give me a new Spirit - that seeks and longs for your presence

Lord I can see, perceive, sense and anticipate your rain, I can see the abundance of clouds coming, I can sense the outpouring of the blessings of the Lord upon My life

Lord I worked harder, open up your gates of heaven, your floodgates Oh Lord

I know that when praises go up, your blessings come down

I receive your rebuke, reprimand and chastisement as is my betterment.

Thank You Lord for your word of promise...that those who believe in you shall not be disappointed.

I Am Easy To Love…

I am actually chuckling as I am writing the title of this blog post, I wanted to add the word 'really' at the end with a question mark. Because I know very well. I am probably near impossible to love. However, most if not all of us, I would like to believe that we are not Easy To Love. The most difficult topic. Of course, you guessed it, it is inspired by the song by Bucie. The song is a masterpiece if you ask me. The answer to the question raised in the song is the difficult part. Well, I have good news for you, as if you don't know. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so is love. Loving somebody is a choice that you make. Ja, at first there is some feelings and attractions, but come a point when you really have to decide if you would like to stick around based on what you observed after few or many encounters. Few encounters, because some unions are easy to see and tell from the word go if they will last. If you really have that feeling, please, do me a favour, most importantly yourself, and walk out.

By the way sex does not make the relationship work, it only spices it up. And, it can only spice it up to a limited extend, other factors must kick in and move the relationship to the next level…I am now thinking about maturity models. Sex work temporarily..after its niceness/steaminess has worn out..remains the movie Mission Impossible 4. The problem is that, it is used as a scapegoat, when people cant really deal with the real issues. Hence those relations based on sexual activity does not make it far. They die down the line.

This few sentences just indicate how all of us are not easy to love. Well, I believe umuntu u no muntu wakhe…motho o na le motho wa hae (each person has someone suited for them), to a larger extend since, some people have had few if not several relationships or marriages. Due to the fact that one of the parties were not really that easy to love. Your person will be able to stomach you and your baggage, simple as that. The easy to love denotes that, one can be loved to such an extent that it is easy to hang with, have fun with, be silent with, be angry with, get bored with and still love the very same person without changing your initial assertion. Some people for no reason you just love them, regardless of what he/she do/does, they can upset you, but you just love them. That's the power of Love. If you will and want…pray this prayer: Lord Make Me Easy To Love To My Present or Future Partner – watch and observe the outcome. Enjoy the song...and do tell if you are Easy To Love.

Marimba Night Life...Monate Fela

Another of my night life tendency, I enjoyed myself at the hands of DJ Zintle. If you don't particularly enjoy partying, rather stay away. In partying expect surprises, to be stepped on your toes, a grab on your bum, and or breast as well. Sometimes as a genuine mistake, but sometimes a beautiful mistake - intentional. And, expect some stranger to come start some moves in front of you or with you, either a sexy or annoying  move. As a way to attract your attention, aiming to score, at best. Thats some of the tale of partying but more to come in future post. This, in no way is motivation, guideline or advice for one to go out partying - especially if it is not your cup of tea. Just stay away. Those that can stomach it..by all means - Go kill a cow.

Mr Matjuda Night Life at Trinity

Once in a while I enjoy the night life. I used to think that partying was devilish, until I was introduced formally and realised that its actually part of having fun. I must state though that if you are not grounded and self controlled, you might end up in the wrong bed, or rather correct one with the wrong person, or the right bed with the right person but unintentional. Then thats tragic. Unless you are risky like that and you go looking for some hair raising experiences. Well relish some of the Nocturnal experiences I had. It was a Thursday night at Trinity,#AKA #Khuli Chana # Kabelo Mabalane. Oh...apologies for the camera work..its a bit shaky. It was pure ecstasy!! Couldn't help it.

    

Psalm of Donald Matjuda to Lord…

1. What can I say or do to impress the Lord My God?
   
2. Only praise, honour and worship can move and impress Him
   
3. He is the Lord of Pastor Godwin Maboe, Dr Bishop Winston Pienaar, Pastor Charmaine Pienaar and Donald Matjuda
   
4. He is the Almighty of Jacob, Shadrack, Mishack and Abednego
   
5. He is mighty to save, awesome and wonderful
   
6. The Lord is the light of my life, my joy, my strength, he rejoices over me.
   
7. He sing a happy song over me and dances for my victory
   
8. Lord you are happy when victory is my portion, your smile and joy is my resounding strength
   
9. Lord you prepare the path and ways for me, level, open, flatten and make them plain for my sake
   
10. You carry me through the darkest hour, when I cannot recognise myself you give me an identity
    
11. When I am in abyss, the deepest hole and gutter, you restore me, you strengthen my toes, meta-tarsals and knees.
    
12. You inpower and empower me, you transform my mind, my mind gets ready for war against the devil
    
13. You promised me eternality, you said I can conquer anything, you said mightier things I can do…you strengthen my knees to stand and walk even in hopeless situations
    
14. You are God - Exalted, High above everything. Heaven is your recharging place and earth is you're implementing place. It is your place of work, your angels take up their positions on earth. They give you feedback about each of our lives and how I am living. The Holy Ghost is my guard, protector, soul provider - He goes forth on my behalf as I command.
    
15. You have appointed me as your agent of change, the agent created in your image to bring about the knowledge of the Lord to the people.
    
16. You enable me to hope, believe, belong and love. In you I belong, I know a man need three things, which is Hope, Love and Belong in life but the first one is You Lord…
    
17. You make all other things to fall together, sense-making, give a rich picture, to fall in place…when I am lost I can have the slightest of the hope, because I will yet still see the salvation of the Lord in my Life.
    
18. You become the oversee of my soul, even when I am lonely I can pour my Love to you
    
19. You are beautiful, your beauty is too much, your beauty is beyond understanding…you are good…Yes You are.
    
20. I love the Lord for He has saved my soul, He has lifted me up…He has made me anew…He has breathed in me life in abundance, given me grace, mercy and power.
    
21. I thought I have seen my miracles in the world until I met you, then I realise I had seen nothing. I thought I understood better, I was clever enough to do so many things but the Lord…
    
22. But the Lord showed me His power, He showed me His strength and showed that He is capable
    
23. Hence I declare and decree today that I love the Lord, Yes I do…I Love the Lord…Yes I do…

How Do You Remember Your Mama...

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL THE MOTHERS

This goes with my previous post about How I Remember My Mama...and It Is In A Happy Way. This song takes me back in time. The words below...

I remember mama,

And the love that she gave

Kneeling by her bed side

I can still hear mama say,

"the people are depending on you, shirley,

Don't you let them down"

I remember mama in a happy way

We went to school with holes in our shoes

We didn't have much but the lord saw us through

Mama kept the family together

I remember mama in a happy way

She packed our lunch in an old greasy bag

It might've seemed empty,

But it was more than others had

It had a lot of love way down deep inside and

I remember mama in a happy way

Now mama is sleeping in the bosom of jesus christ

Somehow i know she's smiling, she's smiling on us right now

One day i'll see her again, how happy i will be

And i remember mama in a happy way

My brothers and sisters, they're living far apart

Although my mama's gone, she's right here in our hearts

We're all gonna pull together and stay in the holy place

I remember mama in a happy way

I remember mama, i remember mama in a happy way

How Do You Remember Your Mother…

Mokgadi Joyce Matjuda

I am just listening to Pastor Shirley Ceasar song, titled "I Remember Mama". Well, I can't really say how I remember my mother since I did not grow under her tutelage from my young age. My mother and dad separated unofficially while I was still young. Unofficially because they never divorced legally, just a fed up, I can't take your abuse any longer or family interference. I never really got to hear the whole story until today as to what exactly happened. Poor me, I also never bothered to ask what actually happened. But the bits and pieces of information that was dumped on me during the angry moments of my mother attest that it was a horrible spell she endured - married. With the information coming forward two causes of the separation stands out; Family Interference and Abuse (physical and emotional). This article is not really about that story but one of the good days I will tell the full story of what I remember.

However, given the above, I can still safely say that I do Remember Mama…and in a happy way. I love her lots - nothing I cant do to show how much I appreciate her. Her name is Joyce Mokgadi Matjuda. The summary of the few moments I still remember despite the distance.

1. While I was still young she was working in Johannesburg as a domestic worker, and she is still working there today. I remember her bringing Christmas clothing. It was an exciting time and moment. I would wear them and quickly make them dirty because I did not want to wear something beautiful. I thought I didn't deserve anything beautiful. I want to wear it but it must not be new, if it is, it attracts attention. Everytime it was December and Good Friday, she will bring clothes. Only now when I cast my mind back I remember that some of the clothes were not new, they used to belong to the children of her bosses and when they do not want them any longer she would keep them for us. Anything that came from Makgoweng (White people from Johannesburg) was simply beauty and the best. Those were the days, my Mama really made those events memorable and I always looked forward for new clothes, shoes or toys. Even though some were slightly bigger, rope will be used to tie them and life continues.
2. She also used to buy confectionaries, she likes them even now, I also like them till now. Since I only used to eat bread, drink coke and or eat chicken or meat once a month or sometimes three to four times a year. When she comes back from Makgoweng to visit. She will come back stocked with sweets staff and I will indulge until I get sick sometimes. I will shine, and feel like I am on top of the world. It felt proud to have had a Mother who used to work and could bring us nice things to boast about to our friends. Even though it was once in a while it was sweet and lasting.
3. One of the things she used to do, is to give us money - in those days R5 was a lot of money, and she would give me to spend at school. I would cherish, protect, defend and boast about it for a long time. This trends continued until my early teenage years when I can realise the distance. Importantly though, there was a memory of her involvement in my life.
4. In those days, a car was luxury, the same as bread, coke and other confectionaries, only those that can I afford will eat them on a daily basis. I remember her asking her brother to take us with a car (back to where we stayed with our Father) after spending the day or weekend with her. It was a moment of heaven on earth because we hardly ever been in a car. I will really relish the moment.
5. While I was in Tertiary, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), she contributed immensely to clothes (not new - used from her bosses), she also used to ask for some advance, for settling part of my fees and studies - especially our regular excursions that we used to embark on, as a Nature Conservation students. She will also ask her employers to buy me books, I remember the Mammals of Southern Africa, Trees of Southern Africa and Ecology (I still have the books even today). I think because they understood the role of education, they obliged. I do Remember Mama in a Happy Way And Love Her Stacks.
6. I still remember her shouting, reprimand, her words of inspiration, encouragement, strengthening and empowering. She really shaped and made me. She was hurt that she couldn't really raise us the way she would have liked to but she did her best under the circumstances.

The above is the sad tale of many families that were dysfunctional, in any circumstances, mothers became the protagonists of the families. They stood the ground, they held their head high. They made sure there is food on the table. They interceded daily, at the midnight hour, they became like Henna, poured their heart to the Lord and He heard their cry, answered them and give them peace of mind. Today we are the many products of the dysfunctionality. But as the Lord promised during our birth, I shall never leave nor forsake you. You are my child and I have a plan for you.

I know this is dedication to my mother who gave birth to me and my siblings. However, during her absence, which was not by choice but circumstance. A great woman took care of me, for many years. Her name is Apholo Mapela Matjutla. When I think about her I really shed a tear and become emotional. She passed on in 2006. She was super special, she literally became my second mother. I will post her tribute in her death anniversary but I also do remember her on this Mother's Day. This is how I Remember My Mother/s…and How Do You Remember Your Mother. Very Special Happy Mother's Day to All The Mothers including the Mother of My Child Selemeng Matjuda (BK will pay tribute to you one day). And I dearly I Love them

HAPPPPPPPPYYYYYYY MOTHERS DAY…

Confession Liberates…

Confession must be the most difficult thing to do…nobody ever seems to want to concede. If they do concede it would be after robust argument or provision of voluminous evidence. We all want to act stronger and mightier. We all portray a well-poised position and life to a certain extend. We want to appear together at all times. We want to appear happy not necessarily truthful and real about the issues of life. We seems to have a good perception, which is excellent. Notwithstanding the good perception displayed at times the real person needs to come out. Putting your best foot forward does not mean you should suffer in silence and not be truthful about self. In any case confession and perception differs. Speak the truth about yourself in love. Whatever method you choose to do it…

Talking about the truth in love, a couple of years ago I was attracted to this lady that was married. I would admire her from a distance, fantasise about what could be happening, every time I see her I would think about possibilities. The more I kept the truth inside of me the more the desire to have her grew in me and intensified. I think that's the nature of liking, loving and lusting someone. The desire was too strong and one day I expressed how I felt. Little did I know that is the last day I would speak to her, the whole desire just vanished? I had not desire any longer, I had not desire to speak to her. Why? Because I had CONFESSED. That's the power of confession, it liberates. Another anecdote, I recently told another lady that I liked for a long time, that I actually liked her. Afterwards I felt that the burden on my shoulder has been removed, lifted…a great relief and freedom. Till today I am still enjoying the freedom. This are not the only stories, many celebrities that were addicted to drugs…had to confess as the initial step out from the addiction…then afterwards you can handle the problem better. Confession breaks the power of sin, addiction and, in a lighter way…it releases one from the person you like which you are not supposed to especially inaptly. Even if you like the person aptly it clears your mind and opens the world around you…to see things clearly.

Is It Important To Manage Perceptions About You!!!

I wrote an article about Perceptions which indicated how important it is to get to the bottom of the issue before making startling conclusions. What in effect is perception, 'it is the idea that people have about you without verification'. Whether is the truth or not...it doesn't matter. It is the opinions of other people about your life. My article laid down some important aspects as to why we should not make conclusive judgment and decisions based on perceptions. While that is important we should not ignore the Importance perceptions play in society. People know that there is two sides to every story but how many actually bother to unravel the other side before casting aspersions. More times than not we thrive and making serious allegations based on perceptions. The more noise is made about certain products, services and people, the more the perception is created about them. This can either favour or discredit them. This can be services provided, products quality and peoples ideology. For an example Julius Malema's perception is that of radicalism and rudeness but if one get to listen to him speak, you will be amazed.

The point I am making is that as much as we know the truth, we are not allowing the truth to set us free. We are still enslaved by the perceptive nature of how the media portray certain products, services and people. Knowing that it is the truth and fact, this means that we should care about the perception that people have about us. We need to manage that in a way. How many of us have made conclusions and even commented on the Nkandla report without reading it (or even extract of it). The answer is rhetoric, we have made findings about other people from a distance. Although it is difficult to control, we need to manage it to a certain extend. We need to generally portray ourselves in a positive light for the sake of other people. However, that does not mean we should not be truthful about ourselves. It simply means improve your brand representation. Nobody want to be seen in a bad light at all times. Put your best foot forward, represent yourself wisely and truthfully. I am sure you wouldn't want to be seen drunk most times, because that's the perception people will have about you. Unfortunately they make final decisions based on that. To a larger extend it is important to manage your perception to avoid negative publicity. Whether you are in a public eye or not it is important.

Salvation… Why The Paraffin Speed...Relax Inde Lendlela

Sometimes I wish my elders and mentors in the Lord warned me that salvation does not require a paraffin speed. The paraffin speed dies out quickly once it is overwhelmed by other factors. When I was still young in the Lord, my zeal was like a run-away horse…that's a great enthusiastic without experience. I was really fired up for the Lord. I was new and everything about God was good and sweet sounding. I enjoyed the time in the presence of the Lord. In those days it was still way too special because I didn't know that I can move God in a Mighty way. I was scared of some of the sisters and brothers in the Lord especially those that frequented the podium. I was scared to greet them because I felt unworthy to do so. I felt like I was sinning by just associating with them. They used to appear holy and perfect. I am no match I used to tell myself. That's the kind of reverence and fear I used to have for things of God and God the Father Himself. I remember some of the sister that used to hype us up, take us from coldness to highness in the Lord. When the sister take up the mic and speaks in front the devil shivers. She was devil chasing and rebuke for the left handed individual were quick to emerge. She could pray for anything and it happens just like that. It was beautiful to behold and lo.

Now came the time that I also picked up the momentum and I was nearly like my former sisters that I mentioned above. I was calling those things that are not as if they were…I would speak them into existence without intimidation. Life was different then…I never used mind walking from Bellville East at 20:00 for a Cell Group in UWC at 2030. At times we could walk from UWC at 02:30 after Coffee Bar to Bellville, at times in heavy storms and rain. Those were the times. The wonderful times of no question but pure obedience in the Lord. Sometimes I wish I could turn back the hands of time. Those were the time I was operating at the speed of paraffin. I thought there was a prize to be won. Of course the bible talks about running the race and gunning for the prize that await us at the other end. However, it seems that we took those words literally. I thought indeed the prize was waiting. But as a fact the scripture talks about pressing towards the mark of the high calling…high calling = life purpose. Phil 3: 14 Pursuing the goal towards the prize…

After couple of years still pursuing the prize of the upward call…one kinda slow down the pace and the level of intensity subsides. Especially after you realised that salvation is not an achievement but a lifestyle that we live until we meet Him in the sky. The paraffin speed subsides and now the real salvation starts where you need to carry yourself by prayer and fasting. No more illusory…but reality check. I call it illusory because it was unconscious and state of being unaware (unreal).

Now we have matured and are still growing in the Lord and still LOVE the Lord but have acquired so many good experiences and some bad ones. One realise that the journey is only beginning…the strictness we used to have is no more. The venerable, reverence and fear that used to engulf us is gone. The fire is still there but not like before. The many experiences have calmed us down…taught us a lesson or two about life. It kinda say relax, don't be in a rush lest you hit and crash. Observe the road and the path that you are travelling properly so that you reach the destination safely (heaven). Those that used to hype us up…those that took us straight from hell into heaven today are walking much slower. Some of them are not even walking at all -have crashed badly. While some are walking in a different direction today. Why…simply because life happens and has happened. 

My advice to the young ones in the Lord is, have zeal for the Lord, be fired up and Love Him wholeheartedly. However, be cautious not to be weary…take time to relax (enter into His rest). Let not life stage pass you by while you still focused on the Lord. Being in the Lord is a lifestyle not an acquisition

(you don't enter and come out again - not for a period). You will have to live like that until you are no more or you meet Him in the sky. We don't want to say this words to you or behind your back one day. Donald used to serve the Lord but now….He used to pray like this but now….He used to fast and intercede but now…!!! I do not wish to be in that situation, nor wish it upon anybody. I know life has happened and I have experienced many gruelling factors but I still Love the Lord. The zeal might not be the same but inde lendlela e se hambayo (it is still a long road we are in) and I am still soldering on.

The Year of Possibilities: Theme for our church in 2014 – Restoration Life Ministry

In our church RLM in 2014 it is declared the Year of Possibilities based on the scripture from Luke 1:37

For Nothing is impossible with God

This scripture sounds like those motivating verses that one can just chant and miracle happens. This might be the case for most people, but in reality one need to establish a solid relationship with our Maker for the words to become life and live. Depending on God‘s plan for our lives some of the scriptures can be chanted for the whole year without any breakthrough in that particular area. While some might just say it once and hundred fold of miracles fill their cup and run over.

The truth is God is taking each one of us on a different journey, it differs from one to another and cannot be simply compared. Like a child without a sweet, when he sees another with a sweet he cries for it, or if the sweet is a different colour, he also wants the same colour of the sweet. What the child without the sweet might not realize is that God has given him a toy instead of a sweet. The toy that he can play with for a longer period while the one with the sweet, he eats the sweet for that particular hour, while the toy lasts for weeks, months or even years at times. God things do not work like that. Each one of us need to seek God to understand which of the journey we are in.

This year of possibilities does not necessarily mean that at the end of the year, those who are not married will be married, similarly gotten new car, house and job etc. I am sure many staunch Christians can attest that themes do not work magic, it is a process oriented achievements as per God’s master plan for our lives. Many of us have gone through many themes over the years, some of those birthed results while some did not. This is due to many reasons, one might have been out of God’s will for a period, or through our actions God might have deemed us not ready enough to receive certain blessings. 

Thus if one reach the end of the year without any physical and tangible testimony should not be disappointed or distressed, or feel left out of what was promised at the beginning of the year. While still on this point, it important to highlight our yardstick for measuring our breakthrough with God, so many of us falsely use tangible and material gains as a good measure of Gods breakthrough in our lives, such are cars, marriage, house, new job and salary etc. We tend to neglect the tillage that God has put in for the fruit to be ripe and harvest to be ready, in other words the behind-the-scene work God has put in for the results to be claimable.

We also tend to neglect the breakthroughs that brings into our live that deals with our character and integrity such as teaching us maturity, honesty, hardwork, forgiveness, patience, humbleness, serving, deal with anger, deal with people and establishing relationships with family, friends, enemies and colleagues. This are the very few factors God might be bringing achievements and attention to but we are too concerned with the physical and glamorous ones. Those are normally immature Christians still concerned with pure spiritual milk, have not really experienced the meat.

In most cases only the mature Christians are content with what God is dealing with in their lives. Even though they don’t see the glamorous breakthrough, they are content knowing that the path and groundwork is dealt with in preparation for the breakthrough to set in. When it comes, they are ready to receive it wholeheartedly without a change of heart or acting as if it is self-achievements. The bible state that the righteous shall know their God.

Just to highlight that last year’s theme is not dead and buried, it is a build on, add to faith perseverance, to perseverance knowledge, to knowledge patience and to patience good virtue. This themes seek to bring us closer to develop a God like character. We accept the Lord as our personal saviour and work through our character overtime, that period is called fine-tuning. We make a lot of mistakes and rectify them, strive for holiness and perfectionism.   

To be continued...