The Write Giving: Understanding the Generosity Factor (Time, Talent, and Treasure)

 Hey #JustWrite!! Woohoo!! We are at the end of 2021.  We are in another season of giving. Yes it's Christmastime, but I am speaking on another type of giving, the giving of one's time, talent, and treasure. I know during this time of the year, many are focused on gift-giving and festive gatherings. Let's not forget the precious meaning of giving: being of service to others through what has been given to us.  Of course, we must be led by what God is showing us. The core of Just Write for many years has been building relationships and the concept of netweaving which was introduced through our relationship with EICC. As we prepare to embrace the new year, it's very important that we take into account the necessity of intentional giving and fruitful relationships. What does it mean to give your time? One definition for time is, "the measured or measurable period during which an action, process, or condition exists." We've heard the phrase, "Time is Money." From a labor perspective this is true because hours worked at a specific time interval equates to an hourly wage. From a purpose perspective this is not true because one can possibly get money back if it's lost but can never get time back once it's gone. Remember our time is precious so we should be joyful in giving it back with our talents and treasures. Each of us has been bestowed with unique gifts to share within the Kingdom. This month's book club read is "The Generosity Factor: Discover the Joy of Giving Your Time, Talent, and Treasure" by authors, Ken Blanchard and Chick-fil-A founder, S. Truett Cathy.  Many of us define success in different ways whether it's inspiration from our favorite thought leaders or from lessons learned through our unique experiences. We have also seen where one can be a public success and private failure. The Generosity Factor puts a creative spin on the subject matter as a parable unfolds between two characters, one who dreams of being successful while feeling indifferent and another who is successful because of the success principles that drive his life, hence the name, the 'Generosity Factor.'

Join us on Tuesday, December 28 at 6pm with our host, Tricia Scott as she provides her insight on the beauty of being generous. May we all understand that generosity is by God's design. I close with a quote from the blog, Generosity NY on why the concept of generosity is important to God: 

"Generosity is our opportunity to serve the purpose of our Creator. Our generosity towards each other is a tool which God uses to create abundance. When we practice authentic generosity, we are lending ourselves and our capabilities as vehicles for the Lord’s work.

If we give them to Him, God will use our talents, our time, our resources and everything about us to do His work on earth. By sharing what we have with others, we are giving a gift to God, by serving him in the creation of abundance where there was once scarcity."

Matthew 6:1-2

Remember your presence with others is valued more than the presents to others for it is your greatest gift given and received.

Merry Christmas and see you all in 2022!!

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Manual: Building an Outstanding Black Family

 Hello #JustWrite!! The topic of relationships and having a strong village within our community has been a constant topic as we come into another holiday season with loved ones. As we gather with family in the next few weeks for Thanksgiving, it is a great time to reflect on how to continue to connect and build up our families. We all can agree that we live in a society where there wasn't a clear cut manual on how to parent. We have thrived off of traditions, rituals, and superstitions as it relates to life, family, community, and just survival. As I think about family, I came across the following biblical verses that speak on family: 

“As for husbands, love your wives just like Christ loved the church and gave himself for her.” — Ephesians 5:25

“Honor your father and your mother so that your life will be long on the fertile land that the Lord your God is giving you.” — Exodus 20:12

“As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; in Jerusalem you will be comforted.” — Isaiah 66:13

“Parents, don’t provoke your children in a way that ends up discouraging them.” — Colossians 3:21

“My son, keep your father’s command; don’t abandon your mother’s instruction.” — Proverbs 6:20

“Friends love all the time, and kinsfolk are born for times of trouble.” — Proverbs 17:17

“Those who say, ‘I love God’ and hate their brothers or sisters are liars. After all, those who don’t love their brothers or sisters whom they have seen can hardly love God whom they have not seen!” — 1 John 4:20

These scriptures speak to the different levels of family from spouses, parents, children, and extended such as neighbors and church family. 

This month's book club discussion will visit this topic on the same level in the book, 

The Black Family - How To Build an Outstanding One: How a Man Can Build a Strong Powerful Relationship with Your Children, Your Family, Your Loved Ones and Your Peers

Join Just Write on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at 6pm. Bring your questions and invite someone who needs to hear the message. 

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Self-Care: Black Mental Health and Emotional Wellness

Hello #JustWrite and hello again October!! We are in the final stretch of 2021 and the topic of mental health has resurfaced again. The blog has touched on this topic a few times through the years and more specifically in the Black community. Again, for those who don't know, October 10th is World Mental Day where everyone in the world brings awareness of the importance of having self-care regimes. When it comes to the topic of mental health, particularly in the Black community, it tends to be a taboo topic because many struggle privately and feel scrutinized if they share their battles publicly. A lot of our battles begin in the mind before it becomes spiritual and physical. A lot of trauma within the black community has come from what our minds have processed with the lack of discussion and proper care/guidance for healing. Living in a digital, social media world, there have been many celebrities and influencers who have been open about their mental health. Now it's time to have a more in depth discussion for those who are suffering silently who may or may not have the same access for help. This month's book club read is  "The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health" by author Dr. Rheeda Walker. The book explores unequal systems, provides tools for emotional wellness, and suggests strategies to navigate racism and discrimination.    

In 2021, we as a community have seen enough issues and situations that have triggered many memories of past traumas, known and unknown. Most of us were taught about the atrocities of slavery and oppression in this country and the way we tend to view ourselves stems from what has occurred but never discussed or examined. In some instances we make decisions and respond to issues based on what we are facing instead of considering the outcome. Dr. Walker's book will dive deeper into helping readers to understand their mental health through the eyes of the Black experience from a somber past, eventful present, to a hopeful future. Join Just Write on Tuesday, October 26 at 6pm as host Pastor Ron Sailor leads the discussion on how to be unapologetic with one's mental health. It's time to heal and experience a freedom, holistically, mentally, and spiritually. Be free, unapologetically.

In His Service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Influence: Leadership Through Tribes

 Hey #JustWrite!! It's September and once again we are nearing the end of another Quarter. As we near another chapter, let's discuss the word, "tribe". Honestly when I think of tribes, I think of the group of people that I descended from in the Bible and my immediate family history which includes the Native American tribes and African lineage I've been accustomed to learning in addition to what other genes are within my family tree. On another note, when I think of the word, "tribe", I think of a group of faithful people that have my back and best interests at heart. Those tribes are sisterfriends, business collaborators, and those I share similar interests with. I consider the Just Write Support group and The Write Team (fellow collaborators for Just Write) as two of the many tribes I'm blessed to be a part of. Historically, with a tribe, there tends to be one leader who is guiding the people to a desired goal. I have been fortunate to be a part of these two tribes where we are all seen as leaders. As writers, regardless if we are a newbie or seasoned, the ability to share our thoughts and voice in written form creates a space to be a leader. I was reminded of this quote from Pinterest, "With Jesus, there are no big “I’s” or little “you’s.” The ground is truly level at the foot of the cross. No matter who you are or where you come from, we all have a place in Jesus." I wholeheartedly agree with this statement as we all need to be reminded that we are special and significant in Christ's eyes. As we navigate another year of the pandemic, it is important that we inspire and encourage each other through these hard times personally, professionally, and spiritually. This year, specifically today's date makes year 7 for me as the blogmaster of Just Write and I can truly say I am fortunate and blessed to be surrounded by leaders from all walks of life who inspire and encourage me to walk in my respective calling as a scribe. 

This month's book club is centered on the book, Tribes by author Seth Godin. The book describes how we as a people can rise to the occasion and by pass the barriers that were previously set before the era of the internet came into existence. Because of social media, blogs, and other online platforms, people have more access and the ability to be leaders, changing the trajectory of what it means to be a leader. We all have the same 24 hours and we all have the ability to lead. Join Just Write on September 28 at 6pm with our host Kimberly Thompson as she discusses her thoughts on leadership within our respective tribes. Come ready and prepared to be revived and inspired to push through hindrances and embrace leadership.

  

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Stance: Displaying Boldness on Societal Issues

Hello #JustWrite!! It's August and we are once again at the tail end of another year. Time flies by when you are focused and productive. Speaking of being focused, in August of 2019, I touched on the subject of staying woke. Those written words pre-pandemic prepared myself for what's happening now. Here we are in 2021 and that 'back to normal' the majority of the world was hoping for hasn't come back into fruition. Yes, we have some sense of normalcy with daily activities but deep inside, we are all taking each day as it comes. Since college, my father always told me that as time goes on, "things are not getting better but worse." These words are not being said to provoke gloom and doom, but to spark an urgency to be mindful of the times we're living in. For those who are Christians, we are living in a society and culture that is removing a lot of freedoms. In the last few years, I have seen many debates between brothers and sisters who state that as Christians we shouldn't be consumed with the world's issues and societal decay. The truth is we as believers can have a balance of caring about the issues that affect us not only as individuals but as believers in a collective faith. These issues include, poverty, sex trafficking, marriage, abortion, racism, and religious liberty, etc., which are discussed in Atlanta-bred author David Platt's book, Counter Culture: Following Christ in an Anti-Christian Age. Platt believes in his book that Christians must take a stand with passion for the issues that plague our daily walk. Persecution and turmoil continues to repeat itself as we have witnessed in past years. I truly believe that when we address the issues that exist today in the same manner that Christ addressed them through His life and the Gospel, then we will understand what it truly means to set apart and not of the world. Most churches are becoming like the world which is why the message of the Gospel is not taken seriously. Messages are watered down and there is much compromise to gain a name. We are change agents called to be bold and proclaim the Gospel.

Join us on Tuesday, August 31 at 6pm as one of our change agents, Ursula Frederick-Brown will dive into taking a stance and proclaiming boldness in the midst of adversity and social decay. Ursula is no stranger to boldness as she has transcended throughout the mountain of entertainment/arts in addition to the business sector with such flair and passion for being Kingdom-minded and Gospel-centric. Come with the expectancy to get back on track with what's in front of us and let us all stay focused.

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley 

The Write Intentions: Understanding Mindfulness and Stress Management

 Happy July #JustWrite!! We've made it to the second half of 2021 and this month we are talking about that dreaded "s" word. No, I'm not referring to an explicit word or the word, "sin". The "s" word is "stress," something that we all can relate to. The current pandemic has brought on so much stress for many of us in addition to getting back to a so-called "normal" after being stressed out. The irony, right? Anyways, this topic is another on time subject as there have been many conversations relating to stress management, mindfulness, and establishing work/life balance. The topic of mental health cannot be stressed enough as it is on the same level of importance of physical health. A lot of dis-eases in our bodies stem from stress so this month's book club discussion pick, "Mindful Living Everyday" by Dr. Kathleen Hall is the perfect topic. Dr. Hall is the founder and CEO of the Mindful Living Network and the Stress Institute. As a world-renowned stress expert, she believes that the remedy for stress relief is mindful living as she focuses on 3 components: Mindful Living, Mindful Living Community, and Mindful Work. We all can agree that our mindset and the thoughts that we think affect the rest of our body and how we respond. We all can use effective stress management strategies to help us cope, be whole, and healthy.

Join Just Write on July 27 at 6pm as Minister Natolie Warren shares her thoughts and insight. Minister Warren is a licensed therapist who specializes in the healing of women, while helping them to grow confidently and thrive in all of their relationships. In addition, Minister Warren believes in the motto, "Each One, Reach One, Teach One" where she helps other therapists build and grow their respective businesses through "InPowerment", hence the name of her practice. Thank you Minister Warren for being the change agent for therapy and healing. Thank you Just Write for this topic and starting the conversation.

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley 

The Write Health: Knowledge and Prevention in the African-American Community

Happy June!! We are 6 months into 2021 and the topic of health continues to resurface again. As COVID has ravished many communities in the last year, there has been uncertainty and many questions regarding if this virus is permanently here to stay and if it's safe to let our guards down with no longer masking up and not following other protocol. The truth is whether or not the virus is subsiding or not, we as a people, especially in the African-American community have to be knowledgeable and in tune with our health. We can't allow ourselves to get too relaxed. We as a people are afflicted with more cases of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, renal failure, and cancer than any other group. Because of our views on health and relaxed stance, we run the risk of becoming a people once again known for bad health habits. This month's book club discussion will be focusing on this topic as we discuss the book, African-American Healthy: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Health. Written by an African-American doctor, Dr. Richard W. Walker, Jr., this guide will explore the lifestyles within the black community,  diseases that have plagued the black community, the symptoms, and treatments that can prevent the health decline. Understanding and then applying the knowledge is the key to longevity and progression within our communities. Join us on Tuesday, June 29 at 6pm as we learn from host Talema Cannon (faithful servant at the B.E.L.L. Family Center) more on how to improve our health, one tip at a time. In addition to our writing gifts, we are "Called to Conquer" our health and well-being too so let's do it!!

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Village: Parenting, God's Way

 

Hey #JustWrite!! We have MAYed it to another month and another blog!! In the month of May, we not only celebrate Mother's Day, but we also celebrate the end of year educational accomplishments of our children (biological and non-biological). Sometimes parents gauge their parenting skills from how many achievements their children have mastered. But what about what God's Word says about parenting?  By the title of this blog, you can probably guess what the topic will be. Yes, we are discussing parenting as it relates to God's principles. This month's book club read is "Raising Kingdom Kids" by acclaimed author and pastor, Dr. Tony Evans. Parenting looks different to different people but Dr. Evans discusses how parents can help shape their children into growing adults who will be well-equipped for their purpose and Kingdom work. At the time of our birth, the Lord knew that we would look and speak in the manner we speak. The Lord also knew what our purpose was and how we would embody His principles to fulfill Kingdom assignments. It is very important that parents understand that in order to teach their children Kingdom principles, they must first live by those principles. Children learn by what they see so it's imperative that parents are well-equipped mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually. Many of us can attest that we picked up habits and patterns because we unknowingly processed what we witnessed from our parents and other influences in our lives. It is very important that parents understand from the time of their child or children's birth the gifts and talents they will possess through spiritual lenses. We must guide the future generations through prayer, understanding, and God's will. Join us on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at 6pm as Host and Elder, Dr. Lynette Dandridge leads the conversation and breaks down the concepts and principles of Dr. Evans teachings. Parents, educators, or anyone who is currently impacting the lives of children for the Kingdom, please bring your insights and questions.

 

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Success: Rework Your Business

Hey #Just Write!! Have you ever heard the saying "less is more?" Or what about the phrase, "work smarter, not harder?" I use to hear the latter mantra a lot at the restaurant job I had upon my move to Atlanta in 2008. I was already dealing with a rough season of getting adjusted to a new city, graduating during a recession, and just life happening. The last thing I needed at the time was my "bread and butter" as my father would say being affected. A dear friend in college once said that God made everything easy, it's us as people that make things difficult. I still believe that today. When it comes to business, the concept of less is more is intertwined throughout the book "ReWork" by authors Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson.

 

The book basically dives into concepts that many of us who never had examples of entrepreneurship before starting our own businesses. For example, the authors believe that what we were once taught is counterproductive to what is necessary for a successful business such as a need for a business plan, focus on competition, investors, increasing staff, and the need to be a workaholic. In all transparency, I followed no blueprint for my business. I spent years perfecting my craft and I saw a need which led to having clients. My previous clients, referrals, and partnerships were my marketing for me. No one really knew I was starting a business. I didn't even ask any close friends to invest in my business. The investors that I have encountered didn't put any money towards my business; they just deposited words of encouragement and knowledge for growth. I'm quite sure many of you who are reading this can also relate when it comes to business. Many of us were simply minding our busyness before God made a way for us to be about His business in the most unconventional way. I'm interested to know how this book "ReWork" speaks to this same unconventional definition of success. If you are interested as well, be sure to join us this month as we have Elder Craig Heath as our guest who will lead the conversation for our Book of the Month discussion. I pray that many of us have seen this pandemic as a blessing in disguise in terms of reworking our business plans and simply just thinking outside of the box. Don't forget to tune in to the discussion on April 27th at 6pm via Zoom (link will be posted in forthcoming Facebook event post within the Just Write group). 

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write SOULution: Cultivating a Healthy Soul

Hey #JustWrite!! We are in March and I remember this time last year the world was getting use to lockdowns and mask mandates. I was preparing for my last semester in graduate school and enjoying the freedom to really be still and focused. As I witnessed many lose love ones to COVID and other ailments (I lost a cousin during the summer from a long-term illness), I couldn't help but wonder about their life, physically and spiritually. Usually people tend to think about their spiritual health when they are getting closer to older age. During this pandemic, many of us have been hardworking at obtaining healthy eating, living, finances, businesses, families, but what about a healthy soul? What does it mean for us to have a healthy soul? This month's featured discussion will be centered on the book, "Soul Care: 7 Transformational Principles for a Healthy Soul" by Dr. Rob Reimer. 

These principles for a healthy soul include securing your identity, repentance, breaking family sin patterns, forgiving others, healing wounds, overcoming fears, and deliverance. As humans, we are composed of the body, soul, and spirit. In other words, "we are spiritual beings having a human experience." _Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. "God knew who we were before He formed us in our mother's womb." (Jeremiah 1:5) God created us and it is very important that we take the time to recharge our souls as much as we rest our bodies, minds, while incorporating other activities in our regime. Crosswalk.com provides the following 8 practical ways to care for one's soul: 

1. Schedule time for solitude 

2. Sit in silence. 

3. Abide in prayer 

4. Practice God's presence 

5. Institute 'Grace Breaks'

6. Express Gratitude 

7. Slow Down 

8. Journal

Feel free to read the article as these tips help to dive deeper into the principles Dr. Reimer discusses in his book. The last tip from the article, journaling, is a tip we as scribes know very well. It helps us to get before God and tap into what is being said while creating focus and building relationship. Join host Natolie Warren on March 30 as she leads the discussion on a journey of discovery within. The overall goal is a healthy soul, one principle at a time.

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Enhancement: Repairing Love and Relationships

Hello #JustWrite and hello February!! I'm sure most of you reading this had an interesting January especially after reading the book Pivot that was featured in last month's blog and book club discussion. This month's topic is about love and relationships. As we know February is the month we celebrate Valentine's Day, a day set aside to celebrate and commemorate love in all forms from family, friends, and intimate relationships. This month's discussion will be centered around the book, "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love" by author Dr. Sue Johnson. For over 30 years, Dr. Johnson has demonstrated success in her expertise of couples therapy and adult attachment. She has won numerous awards for her development of her acclaimed Emotionally Focused Couples and Family Therapy (EFT). Her best-selling book speaks to her therapy which has helped many to repair their love and relationships. It has also been utilized in a workshop format. The following is a quote from Dr. Johnson: 

This quote speaks to how many of us have experienced love in this lifetime. Love has been a picture of bliss for some while for others, love appeared to be a false reality of hurt and shame. No matter where we are in life, we all desire love and relationships. As a matter of fact, we were all created to love and relate. No matter what life has brought us through, we all deserve to love and to be loved. Of course that love should be from a healthy place though. In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks a similar message about love to his disciples in two verses. "This is my commandment, that ye love one another, even as I have loved you", John 15:12. "These things I command you, that ye may love one another," John 15:17. These two verses speak to the overarching message of love according to the Gospel. We as believers are not only commanded to disciple each other but we are also commanded to love. Discipleship happens in singleness and marriage. Dr. Johnson's book mainly speaks about love and how it is important to find what disconnects many from their spouse and the tools that can be used to mend those relationships. Those same principles can be applied for everyday relationships with others and ourselves. We all deserve healthy and whole relationships. Join Just Write's book club discussion on 2/23 at 6pm with host Lynette Dandridge as she dives into these principles and connects the dots to the picture of repairing and enhancing love in relationships. 

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley

The Write Shift: A Time to Pivot

 Happy 2021 #JustWrite!!

We all can admit that all of 2020 and the latter part of it set the tone for the shift that has taken place this year and it's only day 15. We've each experienced a shift, personally, professionally, spiritually, and most recently politically. I've witnessed with others and myself that the recent political shift has pushed a spiritual focus for many like no other. Many of us are on our face diligently praying and seeking God for revival and restoration. As always, the new year signifies new perspectives, new goals, and new projects. Also, most of us are seeking new business opportunities and new careers which leads to the following introduction for the January book of the month: Pivot: The Only Move That Matters is Your Next One by author Jenny Blake. 

The word pivot means a turn, a rotation, or a shift. Jenny Blake is no stranger to a life's pivot as she "is a career and business strategist and international speaker who helps people move beyond burnout and create sustainable careers they love. She left her job in career development at Google in 2011 after five and a half years at the company to launch her first book, Life After College, and has since run her own consulting business in New York City" (Google Books, 2017). Her story resonates with many Generation Y individuals such as myself who have experienced constant changes within our careers and in some cases are left wondering what is next. Without giving much away, the book discusses four components when faced with a career change: Planting, Scanning, Piloting, and Launching. First, one plants by deciding that he or she needs to make a change by assessing their value and what they can bring to the table. Next, the scanning process includes the pursuit of new opportunities. A great network of mentors and advisors can assist with this process. Third, before any great launch there comes a moment of piloting one's opportunities. This means testing the waters and taking baby steps to reach the final goal. For example, before becoming the blogmaster for Just Write, I began blogging for myself and later as a freelancer. Once that previous season ended, I was confident to showcase my skills even further. The great thing about the pilot stage is that if something doesn't work, there is always the opportunity to receive feedback, adjust, and revisit the plan and scan stages.  Finally, there is the launching stage which is the moment one is enthused about new opportunities and ready to take the leap. It's like the saying goes, "don't reinvent the wheel." Find what works and continue on a journey of being fulfilled. Be sure to grab your copy of Pivot and look out for a discussion on January 26th. Remember future discussions for the books of the month are on the last Tuesday of each month. Whether you are a veteran writer or aspiring writer, continue to perfect your craft and work on those things that need improvement.

I leave you with the following quote from Dr. Martin Luther King: 

“Whatever your life's work is, do it well. A man should do his job so well that the living, the dead, and the unborn could do it no better.” Here's to an amazing #2020Won!

In His service,

Lequvia Ousley