Monday, January 30, 2012

Just Thinking--Random Acts of Kindness

I was just sitting here with my three yr. old son, watching "the cat in the hat" (yes, PBS ROCKS!) thinking about everything, yet nothing in particular, I guess. I know, some of you are probably like, is that even possible? Well, I guess so because here I am, typing away about random thoughts in my head.

I spent the weekend with my family and we had a great time. I hate that my other sister and brother wasn't there physically, but their presence in spirit was there. You know it's amazing to learn how special some people are. And when I say special, I am speaking about those who possess some of the same qualities of Jesus. Having love and compassion for others, speaking positive things into someone's life instead of negative. A leading by example type of person. Well, I am proud once again to have such an awesome person as a relative, a sister, a friend whom I love deeply.

Now, anyone who knows me personally, knows just how much I hate going to wal-mart. I wrote a post called wal-mart, check it out when you can. Anywho, we went to wal-mart to get something to cook for dinner, Friday night. We walked around the place, laughing, talking, picking up stuff we wanted to eat like any other ole time we go shopping. As we gathered our items, we noticed a lady with two buggies of grocery. We were like, "dang, we need to go home with her". She had that much stuff, no lie! And good stuff too.

After we finished shopping and prepared to checkout, the same lady with the two buggies were in front of my sister and mom. I went to the express checkout because I only had about eight items or so. You know me, let's not spend anymore time than we need to in this damn store. While I waited for them, my cousin started bagging grocery for the cashier, who was very thankful.

As the cashier scanned each item, my cousin and I kept looking at each other. We just knew that her total was gonna be off the chain. Well, when the total was given, we were in disbelieve. All the stuff she had only totaled to just a little over three-hundred dollars. She gave her creditcard and the cashier tried processing the payment. Turns out that she was shopping for a grouphome. Eight men to be exact. The card she had only allowed a certain amount so anything over that, she had to put back.(The Government at it's finest) Why would you put such a low amount when dealing with a group home of individuals, when it comes to shopping for the month for them anyway? I don't get it, but I guess!

Well, my sister, the person that she is and who God made her to be kindly said to the lady and the cashier and manager who walked up to help "Ma'am I will pay for the rest of it for you". I almost cried, but only joy consumed me. The lady didn't want let her. But my sister politely said, "don't make me miss my blessing by missing out on yours."

The lady was speechless. The cashier smiled. The people in line behind were in tears, and as we were leaving the manager said to me, "she just gave me goosebumps". I smiled knowing what she meant by that comment and the fact that she probably doesn't see that often. My guess is that she felt overwhelmed to witness such selfless act of kindness from one stranger to another. I know that others witnessed this too and hopefully their hearts were touched and led them to do something selfless for someone else.

If one person was inspired by my sister's pr another's kind actions, then that is all it takes to make the world a better place. My attitude toward wal-mart changed. I don't have to go there all the time, probably won't, but I won't avoid it altogether anymore. I guess it wasn't really the store but the people in which I had encountered there that had my perception of it negative.

I thank my sister for my new relevation. I know that her life has changed drastically in the last month, but the way she is handling it all, is helping to change others too. We may not know why we do things, go through things, but sometimes it's for others to be changed along the way. Doing something for others is another godly trait. Having compassion, love, sincerity, and a positive outlook on hard situations will keep us all humble, grounded, motivated and determined to be better today than what we were on yesterday.

So, when you find yourself in not so good situations or circumstances, remember that you can determine the way you go through and endure them. Whether you stay positive or negative is solely up to you. Your choice! Just know that people are always watching. Making an impact in a good or bad way is up to you. Which will you decide to do?

Until next time be inspired, be encouraged, be blessed and be a better You!!!

Smooches,
Keke Chanel 

"Silent Whispers"

Silent Whispers penetrate my ears
As I listen for your smile
I focus hard to hear the way it used to be
between you and me
I am saddened, confused
wondering where did we go wrong
Silent whispers feel my mind
thinking of the ways you couldn't
get me out of your system
now I hear longing
my soul standstill
but Why?
we used to be inseparable
I close my eyes tightly
and nothing
you are no longer there
Silent whispers plague my soul
running freely as the wind
I quiver from the coldness in your eyes
when you look at me
I jump, frightened
I don't recognize the stranger pretending to care so much
the pain in my stomach grows
missing the way you once made my heart sing
Silent whispers deafens me
knocks me to my core
I cringe in agony wishing I could take every blow
and turn back the hands of time
if I could
you would still carry me inside your heart
You would still catch me from falling
laughter,
happiness,
a beautiful daydream
an amazing reality called LOVE
my heart would continue to smile
my mind filled with excitement
my soul sing songs of bliss
but each time I listen carefully to know for certain if you remain
all I hear are silent whispers
Silent whispers mocking me
Silent whispers a disease without cure
Silent whispers
how did we ever slip into this coma of existence
Silent whispers
will I ever hear your voice make a full-recovery
back to the way things once were
will my spirit get passed the trauma
will you release all hatred towards me
expressing your want, need, love and desire for me once again
Will we ever have our self-medication called PASSION
becoming addicts, refusing to go to rehab
sharing a lifetime together
Will all the silent whispers become whispers of love
the way it was intended to last an eternity???


This poem was written for anyone who feels alone in the world whether single, in a relationship, young or old. Know that you are never alone. You are worth greatness. Don't settle or allow anyone to make you feel inferior. Life will come. When you are given lemons, don't just make lemonade, make apple juice, and everyone who ever treated you badly will wonder, "now how in the hell did he/she do that". When you value yourself, others will do the same. God is smiling upon you, so continue to shine like the sun. I haven't written a poem on the blog for a minute. I hope it's inspires someone today! Thanks to all of my Passionate Souls, who have supported me from the very beginning. You keep me writing and exploring my imagination. There will be more stories coming soon. But, if you need a lil something to hold you over, check out "TROUBLE" or "CROWN ROYAL ON ICE" they are sure to please. *winks* I also have a short novel called "Sugah and Spice", feel free to check it out. The finished product is on the way.
Until next time be inspired, be encouraged, be blessed and be you!

Smooches,
Keke Chanel

follow me on twitter @keke_chanel
comments are welcomed or just send any emails to passionatebutterfli@hotmail.com

Check out my brother "The Messenger" blog whenlifespeaks.blogspot.com
He is really inspiring and passionate about his messaged, through poetic form. Go receive your message!!

Also Support my brother LAPZ100
follow him on twitter @LAPZ100
watch his videos on LAPZTV@YouTube.com


Thursday, January 26, 2012

“Appearances”

I was on twitter today and a question caught my eye. The question was random, yet provided great insight to how many see women/men who wear their hair in its natural state or should I say “kinky”. The question “If your partner didn’t like your natural hair and demanded that you change it, would you?”

Many of the responses made me proud to be a part of the natural hair community, but there were still a few that made me say “hmmm”. The way we all tend to present ourselves is solely up to us, and no one should make or demand you change, period. I believe that a person’s personality or individuality is formed through their style and appearance. Now don’t get me wrong, there are some who take it too extreme by leaving nothing to the imagination or by causing a traffic jam when passing by, but seriously, do the way we wear our hair really matter that much? Just what is exceptional or not in this crazy world?

I wear my hair natural because that was/is a choice I made eight years ago, due to chemical burns and other personal reasons. I do have some family members who say things regarding my “naps” as they call it, but that doesn’t make me want to go back out, sit countless hours at a salon, and endure all the pain I once experienced. I simply smile or shake my head, and continue to be my sassy, classy and sexy natural hair wearing self! I used to get defensive, curse somebody the hell out, and allow them to make me upset, but why? What good could that do? It really didn’t matter anyway, I am my own person and I dictate what I do or don’t do with my appearance.

If I had a problem with the way I looked just because one or two people did, it would be pointless to maintain the morals and values about my appearance. I would have given in to all the naysayers and whispers when I walk in or out of the room. I wouldn’t be able to teach my children to be who they are. How could I when I wasn’t doing the same for myself? Do people really think about that particular fact when they are criticizing or putting down on someone else?

True, we tend to judge others by the clothing they wear, the way they wear make-up or the kind of shoes they have go, but it is still unjustifiable. Just like how being from a different neighborhood or the kind of job your parents have, what kind of car you own or the color of your eyes shouldn’t matter either, but sadly, it plays a huge part in your acceptance in the world.

I love the way I can change my hair any time I feel like it. I love the way it complements my personality. I love the way I feel when I look in the mirror and see the bushy mass on top of my head. Not that anyone who decides to use chemicals on their hair cannot see and feel the same way as do when they too look in the mirror, it just purely mean that it’s my preference. I’m not knocking anyone from doing them. Who I am to do so? Personally, I think that it’s what’s on the inside of a person that should matter most. Their heart should determine your view for them, but their appearance.  

As I scanned through the answers, I saw that a few men said that they would never date a woman who didn’t perm her hair. One said that if he couldn’t run his fingers through his woman’s hair, he couldn’t be in a relationship with her. Come one now, how many women allow you to even do that anyway, Dude! (I’m just saying) I personally don’t have a problem with my hubby running, pulling or anything else to my hair. Hey, we do tend to get a bit out of hand from time to time. *winks*

I think that before anyone judges a person who wears their hair a certain way, they should learn why or educate themselves first. Or just date who you date. Be attractive to whom you are attractive to. Being closed minded can cause many people to miss out on amazing people. But, to each their own! What do I know, right? I do know that there are many natural women/men out in the world who are wonderful, smart, daring individuals. Just because society frowns upon “kinky” “nappy” hair, it doesn’t make wearing straight, permed, pressed hair the better choice or more exceptional of the two. Just like a woman who doesn’t have a “big ass” or “nice rack” more or less attractive, but people are attracted to various types.

I’ve heard stories from a few friends on YouTube and twitter how they were given an ultimatum to change their hair or lose a job, companion, even friends. This is just bogus. Does the way people wear their hair make that much of a difference on their job performance, how good of a friend they will be or if they are marriage material? Damn, have the world become so shadow, superficial and ridiculous that just being you are doesn’t stand a chance in hell? I do believe first impressions are lasting impressions, but if someone looks nice, is dressed nicely and can hold a damn intellectual conversation, why should anything else matter? Shouldn’t that be enough!

We as Society need to stop forming opinions, putting up barriers, stereotyping, or placing individuals into categories and start digging deeper. Like transformers, there is more than meets the eye. And for the individuals who have someone in your life who is trying to change you into someone that you are not. Tell their ass to kick rocks! Nine times out of ten, they are probably the wrong person or people in your life anyway. Be who you are or want to be! If you don’t like whom you are, then and only then should you decide to make a change. Don’t give anyone that much power over you! Let’s decide today, right in this moment, to start looking beyond a person’s appearance and get to know them before determining if they have a purpose in our lives. Don’t miss meeting and having great people in your circle!

And as I always say, comments are welcome. Feel free to speak your mind!! You have a voice and it deserves to be heard. Until next time, be inspired, be encouraged, be blessed and most importantly, be you!

Smooches,
Keke Chanel

Follow me on twitter @keke_chanel
Send emails to: passionatebutterfli@hotmail.com (Tell me something GOOD!)

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

"Family Ties and Values”

Have you ever been surrounded by negativity so immensely that it just caused your entire world to shift? The worse part about it is that more often than not, it is the people we call family. Why is that? And nowadays, it’s not even a big surprise. Ask anybody the question “who is more likely to want to see you fail” and nine times out of ten, their answers will be the same “family”. It’s sad that the very people we love and care for are the ones who want to see us struggle, unhappy and unsuccessful. What happened to family having each other’s backs? What happened to family wanting the best for each other? More importantly, what happened to our “family values”? It breaks my heart that this is becoming an epidemic. Isn’t there enough with the way the economy is? The way our healthcare and education is taking a backseat in a country called “the land of the free”. We cannot afford to neglect family too!
Throughout history family was the most important thing in life. Family came first. Family morals and values superseded all things. If a young man wanted to court or marry a young lady, he had to go through her family. If they didn’t like him, neither did her. That is because of the level of love and support she had from them. She respected her parents enough to make wise choices. She thought about life without the love of them and didn’t want to have a life that way. The strong foundation of family gave insight to her judgments and decision making. She even thought about her own children. Who wants to be attached to someone who doesn’t treat them right or their children, if added into the equation? Sadly today, the value of family isn’t looked upon as much. If a young girl likes a young boy and her mother or father doesn’t like or approve of him, it only pushes her further into his arms. If a father doesn’t show his daughters how a man should treat a woman, they always look for such love and attention in the wrong places. Young men who are not taught how to become great, respectful, and Godly men, end up in one of two places.
It takes a family to lead our young men and women down the right path. If our youth cannot get the discipline, love and encouragement from home, when they go out into the cruel world, they will be eaten alive. I hate to say it, but this is why we have so many crowded cemeteries and prisons. We become a product of our environment if we don’t make the decision to change our environment. Don’t just adapt, strive for something better. Know your self-worth, value, and importance in life. Family teaches that, but it is strictly up to us to start it off. Don’t hold grudges, become bitter or too prideful to make peace with your family members. Regardless of how they are, they belong to us.   
It’s time for change! When something amazing happens to us and we want to share such goodness, family should be the first we call. We should be able to laugh, shout and cry together in happiness, not put down, criticize or find fault. Have you ever thought about the fact that we can choose many things in our lives, but family isn’t one of those things? The people in our inner circle are the people God intended for us to love, cherish, uplift, support, and be there for one another. Let’s start today by changing our attitude and regard toward the people we should love no matter what!
So starting now, if you have family around you show and express your love and gratitude for them. It’s as simple as that. If you have a problem, go to them and communicate. Communication is the best way to let someone know what’s on your mind or how you feel. Be kind to one another. Life is hard enough on a day to day basis don’t help it out by adding more stress.
I can truly say that I love all of my family. Now don’t get me wrong, there are a few whom I love from a distance but if and when they need me, even if they don’t, I am always there for them. Some people don’t have families. They may have lost their mothers, fathers and other loved ones due to death, distance or deception, so don’t take yours for granted. Try to make peace with the ones you don’t see eye to eye with. And the ones you see or talk to daily, tell them how much you love and appreciate them. Spend time with them. Build them up with encouragement. Don’t just hug, but embrace them. There is a difference. Anyone can give a hug but an embrace really goes deeper. It warms the heart, touches the soul and renews the spirit.
I pride myself in giving warm embraces. I embrace people the way I want to be embraced. Have you ever had a bad day and then got home to a warm embrace? Didn’t it make all the difference in the world? I’ve given embraces and later learned that I helped someone get through a hard time. I have friends and we embrace each other each time we see one another. They are people I consider family. Although we are not blood related, they are still a part of my family. I can also say that when I wasn’t receiving the love and support from blood, those friends gave me hope, determination and encouragement. Make the choice to do the same for the people around you. Life is so much better when you have people in your corner through good and bad times. Trust me, as long as you continue to live, trials will come. Don’t go through them alone, especially when you don’t have to!
Family is important! Don’t deprive yourself from having a solid relationship with them. If you have children, don’t allow them to see the negative side of family. Even if you are a single mother or father, there are still people in your life who are there for you, for them. Surround yourself with those loved ones so that when they grow up, they will be better human beings. That they will know the importance of family and family values. They will be kind to others, believe in themselves and strive to be better than you. After all, the children are our future. How they led us starts with you! You choose.
Until next time, be inspired, be encouraged, be blessed and be a better you!!
Smooches,
Keke Chanel

Follow me on twitter @keke_chanel

I would love to hear from you. Topics for discussion are always encouraged and appreciated!

Thanks for your support!!!

Monday, January 23, 2012

“Indescribable Strength”

This particular topic will probably not agree with a few of you, but I write about what’s on my mind. If you don’t like or agree with this post, “Get over it!” But hopefully, someone is touched or helped through their situation and time of heartache. I am here to encourage, shed some insight on various topics by giving my opinion or thoughts on the matter. This post is no different. So, enjoy, be open-minded. If you differ in opinion or belief, as I always say, feel free to leave a comment and we can discuss it. I pray that someone’s heart isn’t as heavy, their mind less confused by the end of reading this post.
Over the last few weeks, I have been blown away by the level of strength one person can actually possess. Even when faced with the worse pain imaginable, their level of strength never wavered. In fact, the strength that person generated, helped others cope with their pain and heartache, even get through this saddened experience. I’m speaking about my baby sister. She is amazing! I love her dearly, unconditionally and eternally. I didn’t think it was possible but my sister proved differently. I look at her and smile because she is someone truly special. Although she questions why such tragedies happen to her, she inspires others to keep pushing, keep believing, and trusting God that something better will come. If you have ever faced sadness, just know that “this too shall pass”.
My sister’s strength is one of the things I love about her. She never gets negative or allows darkness to overtake her. She stands tall…firm…like a mountain. She continues to persevere regardless of how and what others may say about her. I personally don’t think I could endure all that she has and still come out stronger, wiser and ready to take on the world even more. It is said that “God doesn’t give us more than we can bear” but why must one person go through more than one tragedy in a lifetime? I asked myself this over and over again and then I realized that God needs tough soldiers in his army, who will fight the enemy without fear, giving in or running scared. My sister is equipped, ready for battle, against any opponent. “I truly feel safe knowing that she is on our side.”
Losing someone is always hard, but losing two people she loved dearly is just insane. Still in all, she continues to fight, stand tall and help others overcome their own tragedy. I overheard several people say that she helped them renew their faith and trust that God is real and will never leave or forsake them. Any people cried on her shoulders when it should have been the other way around. She held them…embraced them…encouraged them, assuring them that they would be okay. Instead of falling apart, she held it together. She spoke love, positivity and blessings into their lives. Life happens, sometimes smacking us hard in the face. How we chose to handle our trials and tribulations is solely up to us. Some people turn to depression, push people who care about them away and turn their backs on God, blaming Him for their pain. “Not all things are God’s doing.” Remember that when you start blaming or accusing Him. I fully believe that we have the ability to stop some things that go wrong in our lives from happening, but we overlook or disregard all the warning signs.
I heard someone say, there was a man in a boat, in the middle of the sea. He was trapped. He lost his oars, didn’t have a life-jacket and was scared. He began to talk to God. While doing so a boat passed him by. The man didn’t pay attention he continued to talk to God about how he allowed this to happen to him. Another boat, an even bigger boat passed him by. The man still didn’t try to get the boat’s attention. He continued to talk to and blame God for his dilemma. After one last boat, even bigger than to first two passed the man by after he told someone trying to help him that he was waiting on God to help him, he drowned. When he got to Heaven he asked God why he let him drown. God finally said, “I sent three boats your way, even allowed someone to try to help you and yet you still didn’t see that I was looking out and trying to protect you. It isn’t my fault that you were too stupid to see that I was there with you the entire time. I was always there to help you. You just refused to see that.” I say that to say, “Don’t allow the enemy to throw you off course. Don’t allow people, places or things to make you miss out on your blessing. So, next time you are faced with tragedy or heartache, don’t be too quick to blame someone other than yourself. Know that you are never alone, but it is up to you the way you accept or reject your help.
My sister has always been the stronger of the siblings. She commands and demands attention and respect. She has a way of making others feel safe in her presence. I know that when she is alone, she sometimes cry, grieve, but her strength continues to grow. Have you ever experienced something so hurtful that you felt like giving up? Have you ever thought that you were cursed or that you were being picked on, singled out? Well, if you have ever gone through something painful, it is just God’s way of strengthening you, preparing you for battle. Don’t lose hope, give up or become confused. God is not the author of confusion! And when or if you find that life is just too hard, too painful, get down on your knees and pray. Give all of your fears to God. Don’t worry and pray. Don’t doubt and assume. This gives move to the enemy to attack you even more. He preys on the weak. Know that there is always someone out there enduring something painful as you or even worse.
Strength, wisdom and courage are all you need to defeat life’s struggles. Place them inside your mind, carry them inside your heart and they will shield your soul and guard your spirit. I want to say thank you to my sister for being my inspiration. Thank you so much for being who God created you to be! You are never alone, so don’t stop being you. Although you have been plagued by many painful experiences, you are still standing. There is nothing too hard for God. Know that the battle is not yours and then you will always make it through. I love you!
If any of you have any experiences you would like to share, please do so. If you don’t want them posted or shared on the blog you can send me an email at passionatebutterfli@hotmail.com. Your story may inspire, encourage or assure someone during their time of sorrow. Don’t be selfish, besides there is no testimony without the word “test”. Until next time, be inspired, be encouraged and most importantly, be you!
Smooches,
Keke Chanel

Follow me on twitter @keke_chanel
Invite someone else to share in reading my blog: passionatepleasuresmindbodyandsoul.blogspot.com

Sunday, January 22, 2012

"Putting Your Mouth on Others"

In today’s society, we all tend to form our own conclusions or thoughts about other people’s lives. We speculate, form opinions, and assume we know just how things went. We form our truths without fully knowing or even wanting to know about the real truth of the matter. Why is that? Sometimes I sit and wonder about how people can try to judge or speak falsely about others, especially people they don’t even know. Celebrities, for example, get it the most. I know that having a job that leaves their lives as a spectacle, looked upon by everyone is frustrating in itself, but when you want to just be left alone, have a few minutes of privacy, it becomes a bit too much. Everyone goes through things. Things that should be just between the people involved. Take childbirth, divorce or a child’s first day of school. Why is it important or even relevant that the public eye is included in said precious events? No one needs to know everything there is about anyone else’s life. Now correct me if I’m wrong. I don’t want to make anyone reading uncomfortable about this particular subject. I was just really pondering this while on twitter, and saw that Heidi Klum and Seal are going through a divorce. Do you think being in the limelight has anything to do with their irreconcilable differences? Was there too much pressure on them and their marriage being in the public eye? Did people expect too much from them? After all, they are only human just as we are. Sure, they have more fame, money and spotlight, but we are also a part of society and culture. What about their children, family and other loved ones? How do you think they are coping with having their families’ life wrote about, featured in gossip magazines, on TMZ or some other form of media takeout? There should be a cutoff period. Some level of respect for other’s privacy. A time when enough is enough!

I know many of you are probably saying that if they didn’t want their life showcased, that they shouldn’t have chosen the path of being famous. Maybe, but is it right to take it too far? Just like me and you, people of the working class, living within our means, trying to stay above the water. Is it fair that we “put our mouths on” someone else’s lives? Is it okay to assume, depict, or speak untrue things about their situations? No!  As the golden rule states: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”, it should be the mere thing looked or thought about before speaking unsure or false things about others. With wisdom comes understanding, and when one has finally gathered understanding, we tend to have a much better and clearer outlook on life and how to deal with life circumstances. We also tend to not worry about others and their situations. We want better, so we do better. We focus more on our own lives and what we hope to accomplish, not what others are doing.  We grow and become better people who want the best for others just as much as we want for ourselves. Sadly though, misery loves company and gossip is contagious, motivated and an act of putting down on others to take the spotlight off of our own bad situations. We all have problems, big or small. That’s just the way of life. It is up to us to make the best out of our circumstances, moving forward to a better way of life. Is it easy? Well, it all depends on who you are. Having a positive attitude, being surrounded by positive people and knowing that there are better things to come is the only way of overcoming any bad situation. So with that being said, don’t judge, assume, speculate, or “put your mouth on other’s”. You are only pointing more fingers back at you when you do so.

As Mom always say, “If you don’t have anything positive to say about someone, don’t say anything at all.” Make that a rule to live by. Once you stop focusing on people and what they are doing, that is when life becomes more meaningful to you. Great things will happen. People will start to see the good in you and all things in your circle. Stop putting gossip and backlash in the front seat and start speaking life instead of death. There is power in the tongue for good and evil. Which one will you speak into your own life? When you speak positive, positive things transpire. When you are happy, you want to see others happy too. The choice is yours. The world will ultimately become a much better place. The mood in the atmosphere becomes easier to deal with. I challenge you to start now. Start today or tomorrow if given that chance to speak greatness into someone else’s life. Help someone deal with or handle a hurtful, painful or disastrous situation. What you pour into the universe will reflect in your very own circle. And know that whether you are or become famous or not, people are always watching. What you portray will be a blessing or curse to all who come in contact with you. You decide! Yes, obstacles will come, but we will always find a way to get passed them. Our children are the future and whether you believe it or not, they are watching. They are a reflection of us, as parents. How can you teach them to do great things when they see or hear you doing the complete opposite? Think about it. No one wants to listen to or follow the leadership of someone who is a hypocrite. Be someone whom your family, friends and loved ones, even strangers aspire to be like. Let the positivity in your life shine bright. Let it blind all negativity and hatred from existence. See just how life will change right before your very eyes.

Feel free to leave comments on what you think about this particular subject. Your voice is a great and profound instrument. It deserves to be heard. My blog is your outlet. Say whatever is on your mind. I strive on feedback whether positive or reconstructive criticism. It motivates, inspires and helps me dig deeper into my soul, with topics we all can relate to or identify with. So, “speak on it”! The only people mad are those who don’t use their voice. "Until next time, be inspired, be encouraged and be you!"  

Smooches,
Keke Chanel

Follow me on twitter @keke_chanel
Invite others to read passionatepleasuresmindbodyandsoul.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

New Blog For 2012

“The Power of Love”
Hello Souls!! I’m back! I have really missed you guys. Another year has come, and although I love writing about passion and storytelling. I have decided to focus more on other topics and life situations. After all, the name of the blog is call passionatepleasuresmindbodyand soul; therefore each should be explored and discussed. Life has a mysterious way of grasping ahold of you, especially when least expected. This year has already tested my faith, family and true friendships. While just three days after Christmas, my family was faced with great tragedy. We became closer, stronger and our faith has tripled since then. The wounds are still fresh. The pain is still cutting into our hearts but our souls are at ease. Knowing that our loved one didn’t suffer or isn’t in any pain gives us all comfort in our spirits. Our minds are filled with precious memories which will last a lifetime and beyond. No one knows the day or hour, so cherish each day, each minute, every second that you have. Show love, express love, give love and most importantly, receive love. I believe that there is no greater gift than to love and be. I look around and see too many people hardhearted, selfish, too proud to just let love engulf them. That only leads to misery, bitterness and ultimately living a very lonely life. No one deserves that kind of life. No one was placed on God’s green earth to be unloved. Anyone who believes otherwise is just oblivious to the way love works. Throughout my family’s painful experience, we held on to the love we have for each other. We hugged, laughed, cried and gave strength to one another. Although things tried to get a bit negative, we saw passed that and continued to stay positive. It never fails that when someone passes, true colors, intentions and agendas are exposed. But one thing I can say is that, my family is awesome! No matter what differences we may face, when every one of us needs another, we are there, no questions asked. If you have people like that in your circle. Hold on to them, cherish them, enjoy them but most of all love them.
How many of you have gone without saying “I love you” or showing said love to the people who matter most in your life? I know that I am guilty of this very thing but I made a vow to do better. People are not mind readers. They don’t know how we truly feel about them unless we share or express that bit of information to them. Don’t allow time, grudges, lack of communication or just being plain stubborn and prideful to stand in the way of having those closest to you around you. No one can go through life alone, no matter how much they think they can, it is impossible. Who would want to do that anyway? I get lonely just being at home by myself at times when my family isn’t there, so I know that going through life on a daily basis without having anyone, isn’t the way to go. You don’t have to befriend any and everybody, but love the people who love you. Life is too short. Take advantage of the time we have left. Have fun. Show love. Give love. Receive love. Live. Laugh. Listen, I mean really listen to the sound of your laughter or the laughter you bring to others. Love yourself because if you are unable to do that, there is no way you will be able to love anyone else. Smile. It warms the heart, strengthens the soul and ignites the spirit. Don’t find yourself bitter, alone and feeling sorry for yourself just because you didn’t give love the leading role in your movie called life. That is no way to live, so don’t chose that fate for your future. True, situations happen when we are all hurt by people we love and care for, but don’t allow dwelling on the bad times to ruin all the good. And if you evaluate your relationships and find that there are more bad than good, it is then and only then that you have to make a wise and conscious decision to remove those people from your circle. It is okay to love people from a distance. It’s perfectly normal and healthy.
With all this being said, make this year the beginning of a new you. Not everyone will like or understand what you are doing and it is okay. Like I always say, some people are placed in your life for a reason, a season and a lifetime. You will know who fits into each category. In time, it will reveal itself. Not everyone is meant to walk along your journey with you. Many will fall away by the wayside and that’s fine. You hold the keys to your own destiny. What are or will you be destined to become or achieve? Many people think the sky is the limit, but there are stars and planets, a whole universe beyond that, so the higher you soar is entirely up to you. Grow in love. Learn from love, and love strong, hard, determined, and with very fiber of your existence. Everything else will line up accordingly. Dare to dream and when you do, dream big. Don’t just live in the dream, make it a reality. 2012 is a year for change, completion and love. It’s only just begun. Don’t waste any more time! I love you all my Passionate Souls!! I hope that someone’s life is touched by this message and change his/her outcome of love. Please feel free to leave comments, post your stories or invite someone else to share in reading my blog. We are all in this thing called life together. So as long as someone is reading, I will continue to write. Until next time be inspired, be encouraged, be you!

Smooches,
Keke Chanel
Follow me on twitter @keke_chanel
You can also send emails to Passionatebutterfli@hotmail.com
And the book is coming soon “Deadly in Stilettos”


Check out my brother LAPZ
Follow him on twitter @LAPZ100
LAPZTV on YouTube
I have a post about him on the blog called “LAPZ” check it out.
Any support is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!!!!