5 reasons...

I'm Thankful

5. I have a job. I'm so blessed to have a job because there are so many people that don't. While I never imagined doing what my current job title requires, I am following the path that God has for me. Everything happens for a reason, and as a writer only gives me more material.

4. Security. I have a solid family and a place to stay, a bed and food to eat. We often put more emphasis  on things we don't have and wish to acquire, but I have everything I need and I'm grateful. I have a solid foundation, and at the end of the day, that's all that really matters.

3. Health. Although I could be healthier and intend to work more effectively on healthier eating and working out, I am blessed to be alive. There is always someone worse off, so I give thanks to God for waking me up this morning.

2. Family. I've been blessed to have amazingly crazy but incredibly amazing people to call family. No matter the situations we face, we are one and I wouldn't  replace anyone of them.

1. God's love. His unconditional love and support is more than I could ever ask for. He's always looking out for me and I enjoy the comfort in that security.

I hope you guys enjoyed your Thanksgiving and spent it with your loved ones be it: family, friends or strangers that have become family. Just because Thanksgiving is over doesn't mean that you should stop being thankful and grateful for all that you have. Everyday should be thanksgiving because no matter what you wish to attain, you have some thing. Be grateful for all that you have and God will continue to bless you so that you can bless others.

Is success + love attainable?

I talk a lot about following dreams, setting goals and completing them, and living a fulfilling life, but the truth is I'm secretly... or maybe not so secretly a hopeless romantic lol. Of course I want to look my dream directly in the eye, but I also want to look someone that loves me and supports me directly in the eyes as well and know that we are secure and one.

I often question if success and love are compatible, and if they are, is it possible to give each the same amount of attention. I look at people like Barack and Michelle, and Beyoncé and Jay-Z and question how they make it work. I mean... we are talking about some of the most successfully influential people, but also some of the most busiest people in the world. How do they find time? and how many arms are required for that balancing act?

What good is success without someone to share it with? Nothing if you ask me. I want to be able to share my successes with someone that believed in me from the start, someone that saw my potential before the world could. No number of Best Seller's could amount to the support and love of a significant other, but at the same time no significant other could amount to the Best Seller's list. Catch-22 lol as are all great things in life.

So if you know or are a person that is fairly successful in life, whatever your job may entail, and are fortunate enough to have someone you love or care for deeply... is success and love attainable simultaneously? Can you dedicate enough time to each or is it inevitable that one gets more attention than the other? I'd like to believe that there is a perfect balance beam, but the reality of that is life is a mix of unbalanced balances lol. Let's talk, what do you think? Can it be accomplished and have longevity? or is it a fairytale idealism?

There's only power in what you allow

Whatever you believe and speak into the universe will be. I never believed or understood that saying until this year. If you speak negative, negative things will happen. I would always say but if I speak positive it doesn't always happen. It's up to you to determine your outlook on life and make the most of it. Bad days are inevitable, so consider yourself blessed if your good days outweigh the bad, because there's always someone worse off than you.

Fears are also inevitable, it's a natural element in life, yet the power of your fears is in your hands. If you allow your fears to hinder you from being great, you will live a life of regret; but if you address those fears and channel them, you could make a decision to change the things you don't like, and embrace the things you cannot change about yourself. As with anything, there is only power in what you allow. Some people don't like the 'B' word because they give that word power, others don't mind; it's all in what you allow to have power.

Just think of all the time you've wasted being afraid and doubting yourself. You could already be doing what you want by now... but the beautiful thing about life is that it's never too late. It's never too late to go after what you want, could be a relationship, dream job, personal goal etc. Never let fear stifle you, let the fear fuel you ! If you don't give the fear attention, eventually it will fade away; but if you continuously feed it, the fear is going to keep growing. Don't allow your fears to grow a pulse, kill them now so that you can prosper.

Today is as good a time as any to really evaluate what you want out of life and how you intend to attain it. People will only believe in what you do, so if you don't believe in yourself don't expect them to. Have confidence in yourself, it starts on the inside. If you want to travel more, save and go... don't let anything or anyone stop you from living your life. If you have a dream to be something that may seem unattainable, go for it and give it your all ! Don't stop until you get where you want to be going. Let's not waste anymore time, the time is now and the power is in your hands ! Be fearless and spread your wings!

Battling the past

Have you ever had the past continuously creep back up? Like you can't escape it, no matter how hard you try? When things are going great, poof ! There is that person, memory, or thing that inconveniently pops back up to add some "character" into your life. For twenty-four years, that person has been my dad.

 Prior to a phone call I received last Tuesday, I hadn't spoken to him since March of 2012, and since that was via text for my birthday, I hadn't verbally spoken to him since 2011. I won't get into details as to why we stopped communicating (I could write a books worth of details as far as that goes lol), but I will say his inconsiderate ways and warped mindset played a major part. However, the phone call I received Tuesday was from his social worker in regards to him, because he knew I didn't want to talk to him. But after actually talking to him I realized two things... 1. I do still care about him despite all the wrong that he has done and 2. He's still the same person, and will never change.

My dad is the epitome of instability. In every way possible ! After twenty-four years the man I share the same last name and blood type with is a stranger to me, and whether he wants to admit it or not, I'm the same for him. It's kind of hard to have a solid relationship with someone that constantly chooses drugs (crack and who knows what else) over you, and if not drugs, constant bad decisions that would land him in jail repeatedly, or a combination of bad decisions because of the use of drugs.

It's crazy when I think of the things and instances that have made me who I am and he's played an essential part in that by not being there. He is the reason why  I don't trust guys and have my guard up, he was the one I wrote to in prison when I learned to write, and he's the complete opposite of what I want in a husband. Funny how drugs can alter your truth, and sadly to this day his truth is still skewed and corrupted; they say the age you begin doing drugs is the age you're stuck in, so although he is fifty-two he's really in his early twenties mentally, although I'd go even further back and say teenage years lol.

So here he is attempting to come back into my life for the hundredth time, with the same excuses, "woe is me" sap stories and broken promises. And I'm forced to decided whether I want to allow him back into my life, or give up on him completely. There is a part of me that feels sorry for him because he's burned so many bridges, and I know if I walk away he won't have anyone. But then there's the other side that enjoyed not talking to him and having the dysfunction, yet I question why I even still care for a person that doesn't care enough about me to do right, or why pity a person that is alone because of his own actions.

All I can do is pray to God and ask that he gives me the answers. I struggle with wanting a relationship with him because he is my dad, but I know that he can't and won't ever be the dad I deserve. When the past comes running back, do you embrace it or push it away? I'll either have to accept him for who he is or let it go; only time will tell I suppose. In the words of Jay-Z "Time don't go back it goes forward, can't run from the pain go towards it."

* As you know I like to add a musical selection if it ties in, and below is the perfect tune. Enjoy !

"Hittin stones in glass homes.... you smokin stones in abandoned homes...

 you hittin stones and broke your home"

5 reasons...

I love Scandal !

5. Evokes emotion. No matter if you are a complete sap or a steel door, one thing is for sure... Scandal will bring out emotions you never thought possible. Every emotion is addressed, and as a viewer I feel just as apart of the situation in each episode as the characters do. Kudos to the writer, Shonda Rhimes ! It's a writers dream to evoke emotion from the audience, and Shonda successfully does that each week. Whether you love, hate or pity a character, there is no indifference... you are stern on how and why you feel that way.

4. It's reversed. In society, we hate the side woman and wish she'd die, but on Scandal it's the complete opposite. We feel Olivia's entitlement for Fitz even though he is married, and was when they started the affair; and it's as if Mellie is the side woman trying desperately to be the wife. There is so much at risk, yet so much invested it's hard to look away. Deep down, I know I'm not the only one that would love to see Olivia and Fitz live out their dream life together, where she can make jam in the house she won't let him sell yet, with 3 or 4 biracial kids running around. Hmmm.... maybe that has potential, given that Kerry Washington (Olivia) is pregnant in real life; It'll be interesting to see how they tie that into the show next season.

3. It's scandalous. Each week there is something new and captivating. And the cliffhangers (which I hate) always keep you guessing. Just like last night's fiasco, what happens two weeks from now when Olivia sees her mother whom she believed to be dead for over 20 years? Or will Quinn get arrested? So many questions... I could go on for days lol.

2. It's compelling. Although I was a late-comer to Scandal and the whole "Gladiator in a suit" bit, I was drawn in from the first episode. There is so much depth in all of the characters, and because of that, their stories are able to flow more throughout each episode. I call that writers magic, the writer definitely has "the juice" lol.

1. It's brilliant. The perspectives, the characters, the lies, secrets and mysteries, the love, the imperfections.... everything combined makes this show a success. It's relateable and in your face. I've said it this entire post, but my hats off to the writer! While most people in oblivion believe it's the actor's that make the show, (which is halfway true because they do deliver) the gold lies in the hands of the writer. The urgency, tenacity and obstacles are truly impeccable. This is what I live for, creative minds getting out their gift and showing the masses. Shonda are everything !

Cannot wait to tune in 2 loonnnngggg weeks from now for the finale, until next time Gladiators !

Check out the promo trailer for the Winter Finale below !

You can do anything in the world... except not do it !

The only thing stopping you is YOU! Whatever it is you want to complete in this life, go for it with full force. Stop dimming your light because others don't shine as bright as you. You have a talent, use it or lose it ! Simple. The possibilities in this world are limitless and you are the gatekeeper to all opportunities. All opportunities: jobs, friendships, relationships, and all of things that bring you fulfillment in life. Your true happiness can only come from the source, you !

The world is yours for the taking. No matter how far fetched your dream may seem, or how long it takes to reach it, keep going ! You don't want to wake up one day and think of all the things you could have done but never did. Life is about taking risks and being brave; No one ever got to their dream by being safe and meek. Go for it ! Even if no one supports or believes in you, let that fuel your fire. Let them motivate you to work even harder, the best revenge is doing what someone said you couldn't.

So go take that trip you've been longing to, even if you have to go alone. Go sky diving, eat at a restaurant alone, start scratching things off that bucket list ! Don't keep putting off things you want to accomplish, there will  never be a perfect time or day... the time is now ! If you want something go for it, that way if you don't succeed, you would have learned from the experience, and won't have to wonder what-if. Time is of  the essence, there's no time like the present.

Big Sean- Nothing is Stopping You

listen and read the lyrics below !

No one's success story is the same

Although people may have things that make them similar, no one has an identical success story. The paths traveled may be slightly the same, but more often than not, they are unique in their own way. Just think of what you want to be or contribute to the world. What is your gift that you want to share? Not everyone has the same talent, and it's up to you to showcase yours in a professional manner so that people will respect and appreciate what you have to offer.

I remember saying several times, primarily right before graduating college last year, that I wish there was a blueprint for writers. I was so frustrated and lost, but knew I had a talent to write, yet no real idea of where to start. I thought of the teacher blueprint, everything is lined up for you, you have the classes, tests, presentations, and hands on experience with internships; same thing with nurses, everything is drawn out for you, and you are certain to attain a nursing job with a great salary right after graduation. I on the other hand, am approaching my one year anniversary of graduation, without successfully obtaining employment from my major thus far. However, I decided to take my destiny and create my own blueprint. I think of the great author's that simply wrote nonstop to get out their gifts, and eventually went on to be on the New York Times Best Sellers list. That's what I'm shooting for... one step at a time. The blog is my first step and eventually I will start writing books simultaneously so that both my mediums will help each other.

Don't allow someone else's success to dictate how successful you can be. No one has the same story, therefore their success stories won't be the same either. The most common thing I've seen in all successful people is their ability to be fearless and brave. You have to believe in your talent in order to make someone else. Think of something you've loved doing for free and go for it. Sure the jump start may not bring in revenue, but in time, if you are dedicated, the money will come. Someone could see your work and want you apart of their business, or refer you to someone that has a similar niche. You never know until you go for it, so stop being afraid and show the world what you've got, you'll be so glad you did. No one's success story is the same, so create your own and make it interesting !


* By the way Ryders... this is our 50th post ! Thanks for all of the continued support, I would be nothing without you all... the love is abundantly real!

Don't be afraid to open the door

I know you're probably thinking: "open what door?". Although I do still believe in chivalry, that's not the kind of door opening I'm discussing lol.

I'm talking about opening the door for change... Be it good or bad, difficult or sad; your door should always be open to the possibilities of the world. There are two perspective on this theory, pay attention.

So the first, and probably most obvious perspective is opening the door for positive change. It could be an amazing job in a different state, stepping out on faith following your heart or dream, new relationships, new outlooks on life. Whatever it may be, never cheat yourself of life's wonderful surprises by blocking your blessings. Never let fear, doubt, naysayers, or even yourself hold you back in life. Keep that door open, and when I say "door" it's more so your mind... Keep your mind open to new possibilities, new discoveries, and new opportunities... you never know when change will come knocking.

Then there's negative change that can be very difficult and life altering. Don't be afraid to open the door when you aren't happy or feeling unappreciated. So you're still not on the same page with that guy you've been dating for over five months, maybe you appreciate him more than he does you, open that door and let him go. Don't ever worship someone more than yourself, if they aren't willing to hold on to you as tight as you are to then, loosen that grip and walk in the opposite direction. Same thing for work, school or anything that isn't meshing well with you. I'm not saying open the door prematurely, make sure you have a backup plan. If your job isn't working out at least try to wait until you have something else lined up; And with school, maybe it isn't for  you... you are overwhelmed, going because your parents made you, or going because you feel like it's the right thing to do. Do it because you want to,do what you love and the blessings will follow.

I've gone through similar experience in the past and present from both perspectives, and it's definitely easier said than done; But when you know your worth you have to do what's best for you. If you aren't happy and fulfilled, cut that deal weight and toss it out the door. What may mean the world to you now could easily become a distance  memory a year from now. As humans, we hold on to things and people far too long in fear that if we lose them we won't find any better, when the truth is God  always has better in store once you've eliminated all distractions and suppressants. So keep an open mind, heart and spirit, and watch your fruitful future flourish.

Sometimes silence is the best therapy

Does it sometimes feel like your life is in turmoil? Are you feeling off balanced? Is stress at home/school/work taking it's toll? I've got the best remedy, and what makes it even better is that it's free ! Silence, it's my secret weapon to keeping my sanity, here's how it works.

When things aren't exactly going as planned and are beyond your control, step back and let go. Don't stress or worry, just free yourself and regroup. There are several ways you can do that... Many people do a favorite hobby like: hiking or bike riding if you are an outdoorsy kind of person, retail therapy and spa days if you aren't one with nature lol, or get lost in a good book or movie. Whatever eases your mind, channel that... as long as it doesn't involve getting arrested of course lol.

Lately I've found that silence has been my best outlet; although it feels like a catch-22 because I am one with my thoughts and I can't escape or hide from whatever is bothering me, it's so helpful to get to the root of the problem without distractions. When you are in silence, similar to meditation, you are able to think clearly and more rationally. It's like having a full fledged conversation with yourself without uttering a word. My "silent time" usually comes a little after midnight, when half the world is sleeping. I think of everything: goals, relationships, work, the future, present annoyances... you name it !  And afterward I know exactly what needs to be done, what needs to be fixed, and what needs to be eliminated.

If you are looking for a free and helpful way to decompress, I'd suggest sitting in silence. I know, it's 2013 and there is technology for everything, but technology cannot provide you peace of mind. Take at least an hour a day to shut off everything and everyone and have some time to yourself. You will be so much more connected within, and can function in society more effectively. If you are still skeptical... try it for three days, if you don't feel different let me know and we'll figure out where the problem lies. Until next time...

Hope you guys don't have a case of the Mondays !

5 reasons...

I hate Winter

5. I'm a Grinch. Although I love Christmas: celebrating Jesus and family, I am not the jolliest person lol. I don't get into the lights and decorating mechanics... I'll decorate a tree but that's as far as it goes lol; unlike my Mom, if she could have it her way, the entire house would be outlined with lights lol.

4. It's longer than Fall. Am I the only one that thinks Fall is always cut short by Winter's overbearing power? I hate that my favorite season doesn't last long, but neither does all great things in life.

3. Depressing. Statistics have shown that more people are depressed in the winter more than any other season. And can you blame them? Longer nights and cold windy days, no thank you. *Side-note: Did you know that if you start a sentence with "statistics" people automatically believe it, even if its bs lol.

2. I can't hibernate. I would love the winter if I could be a bear & hibernate, but since I can't I despise it tremendously. Why do bears get the luxury of hibernation and the closest thing we humans have is a coma? Lol

1. It's freezing. There is nothing appealing about blistering cold weather and endless layers of clothes lol. I'd rather take the winter off from work & stay in my pj's all day.

Is the state of satisfaction attainable?

Doesn't it seem like an endless cycle? Always trying to reach a certain height and once it's complete, you're on to the next. There is always something more to want or acquire, so I ask... is satisfaction attainable? Not temporary satisfaction, I'm talking about complete satisfaction, can it be a permanent state?

With all of life's temporary things, people, and memories I question satisfaction myself. Is there anyone on this earth that is truly satisfied with their life? Well... let's delve into what could create such a thing: good job, nice car, money in the bank, and freedom right? Yeah if you are a superficial lad lol. But to each his own... maybe you care more about financial stability, peace and serenity, love and happiness. The state of satisfaction is truly in the eye of the beholder.

Then there is the flip side to what we negatively interpret satisfaction to be, settling or giving up. How many times have you encountered a person that seems complacent with their life? Is it because they settled and made themselves okay with the situation? Is it because they gave up and had no other choice but to accept it? Or are they genuinely happy with what they have?

I raise this question because I often wonder, if there will be a point in time when I'll feel completely satisfied with my life, and I guess I won't know the question, until... I know. There are so many things that I am working to accomplish, but once those goals are completed what's next? Will there always be the next thing, or does it run out? Have you ever thought about what keeps the enormously wealthy billionaires ticking? Could it be the rush of knowing they are great at your craft? Is it the inspiration they provide to others? Or do they just truly enjoy life?

What do you guys think? Can satisfaction really be attainable long term? Or will there always be something to drive us to stray away from being content? Let's talk !

Celebrating a Legend !

Today would have been my late grandfather's 73rd birthday. For those that don't know, my family and I lost him to lung cancer only three short months ago. But I not only lost my grandfather... I lost a father and a hero. Every time I see the actor Morgan Freeman I think of him, I would always tell Pa Pa they look alike and he'd reply "Yeah but I'm prettier". Just thinking of his narcissism makes me smile, he always exuded confidence, and such charm and love for life.

When I think back on how significant he was on my life, words cannot begin to describe my gratitude. He was a father figure to so many people, yet biologically he only had three children, all girls. I think of how he married my grandmother and raised her two kids from a previous marriage like his own. I think of all the countless Christmas' and birthday's he helped provide for me. I think of how Pa Pa was everything to my cousin's and I that didn't have active fathers. There are so many memories of talks I would have with him about life and endless possibilities. I think of how he had to drop out of school his senior year and attain a full time job to provide for his mom and siblings, after she got hurt on the job. Most of all, I think of all the sacrifices he made for people and never complained. If there was one sure thing I knew I had, it was my Pa Pa.

Even now, my fondest memories would be going to visit him and just enjoying his company. Or when he would come spend the weekend with my mom and I occasionally, and I would cook for him; I miss just watching football and eating with him. He'd always say "I know you love me if nobody else does". And he'd always take my side if I had a disagreement with my mom, whether I was right or wrong lol, I knew he was gonna hold me down. Such beautiful memories I have to cherish for the rest of my life; Memories of moments past.

I am so grateful to have met such an amazing person; and to have had him for the first 24 years of my life. He taught me so much without saying, but through his actions. He was always there, to keep it real even if you didn't want to hear it lol. Always making people laugh and feel loved. Always being his charming self. Although it saddens me that he is no longer here, I am overjoyed that he doesn't have to suffer anymore. I am even quite envious that he has transitioned and reunited with so many family members. But I am thrilled that my newest guardian angel is someone I know without a doubt had my back since the day I was born. There is so much comfort in knowing that every step of the way he will be there to protect me and see my growth. I only hope I can continue his legacy and be as great a person as he was. If you are ever granted the opportunity to meet someone half as amazing as my Pa Pa, consider yourself lucky. Pa Pa was a rare gem and although he is gone, his presence is still gleaming beautifully.

Here's to you Pa Pa ! Happy Birthday to the best man that's ever been in my life, the only consistent father figure I've ever known, and a legend possessing so many wonderful traits. I celebrate your day and your essence.... no one can take away; You are everything... and everything is you !

Don't be S.A.F.E ( Scared Always Fearing Everything)

There are entirely too many people being safe in this world. But if you really want something you have to break away from your comfort zone and go for it without reservation. When you think of some of your favorite musicians, writers, actors, doctors and teachers... What do they all have in common? Drive ! And with drive there has to be ambitious and have no regard to negativity or failure. You have to channel those doubts and redirect your energy. And if you fail keep going, those failures are only stepping stones to where you want to be.

Think of the amazing gift you have that you aren't allowing the world to see. You are depriving yourself of the praise and recognition in addition to stifling your growth. Everyone has a talent and if it isn't used, you are only hurting yourself. What good is a safe life if you never went for what truly fulfills you. What is something that you enjoy and are great at? Would you do it for free and still be fulfilled? If the answer is yes, you should pursue a career in whatever makes you happy. Just think how awesome it would be to get a paycheck for doing something you love... It won't even feel like work, it would be more like doing your favorite hobby and getting rewarded for it.

Make today the day you decide to break out of your comfort zone and chase your dream. No one great ever made history by being safe and neither should you. Plant your seeds today and with time and dedication, watch them flourish. Don't ever let fear, doubt or naysayers stop you from showcasing your talent. Don't be safe, be great !

Saving Power... Power Saving

 *Disclaimer: This is a poem inspired by recent events with someone dear to me. It channels the perspective  of a person trying to save someone that wants to end it all.

Do you know what it's like to have someones life in your hands?

No really, their life... In your hands

Every word you speak could be the last

Consumed with thoughts of moments past

Someones sanity depends solely on you

Deciding to end it all and effect your life too

To be the chosen one with so much depth and burden

Knowing you have the power although the outcome is uncertain

Do u know what its like to have someones life in your hands?

Well I do and trust me... It's a delicate place to stand

* Happy Veterans Day to those that sacrificed their family and lives for our freedom. And this also goes to Veterans that have committed suicide due to the countless things they saw and encountered. But if you are a Veteran or anyone that is thinking of committing suicide don't do it, it's not worth it. You cannot leave this earth until God says it's time. And if nothing else... think of all the lives you will effect, there are people that care about you more than you know, people you may not even think do. You only have one life, don't end it mid-way and deprive yourself of all that life has to offer, anything worth having is worth the storm.

5 reasons...

Why I wanna be a kid again

5. Adulthood sucks. I don't know why my friends and I wanted to rush to be grown... I hate everything about it: responsibility, work, dating, loans, BILLS. When I think about it, there really are no perks !

4. Christmas gifts ! No one tells you that once you become an adult you don't get Christmas gifts, what a sad day that was when I discovered that unfortunate news. I still want to wake up early in the morning to dozens of presents under the tree dammit ! lol

3. No stress. I had no idea how stressful adulthood really was until I was a freshmen in college, all they say is "enjoy being young for as long as you can"; Had someone gave me the real synopsis of adulthood I would've appreciated being a child longer lol.

2. No accountability. As a kid I could do anything and not be held accountable, I can remember accidentally stealing cards to send to my dad because I didn't have money; let me "accidentally" steal something now and I'm going straight to jail, without collecting $200 lol.

1. Oblivion is bliss. Kids are often unaware of life's challenges and obstacles and only know what they believe to be true; All I knew was that I loved reading and writing, and I wanted to be a famous Author when I grew up... I want to go back to that wonderful state of mind. Although I am currently working towards making that dream a reality, it never occurred to me how difficult accomplishing that goal would be as a child... but I won't rest until it's done !

Don't let yesterday's test effect today's quest

Everyday that you wake and are given another chance at life should be cherished. Do you know how many people didn't make it through the night, or didn't wake up this morning? The fact that you did only means one thing, you still have work to do here. You cannot leave this Earth without completing your mission, whatever that may be, so don't allow past blues to alter your new hues.

There is a quote from one of my favorite Solange songs called T.O.N.Y that I absolutely live by: "I don't go with yesterday no more, now I'm feeling free. Today, tomorrow told me...that's where I should be". You have to free yourself of the past in order to allow yourself to meet your future. Anytime you are having a bad day, just think...tomorrow is a brand new day and a brand new start; Never let anything alter your journey, you will only be hurting yourself in the long run.

I know that job can be stressful. The kids were seriously getting on your nerves last night. Your cancer took a toll on you and you felt defeated. School is so overwhelming you don't know if you will successfully finish. Or someone disrespected you and made you question yourself or life. Let it go ! LET IT GO !

The beauty about life is that there is always a beginning and an end, this is guaranteed. Unfortunately all of the clutter in the middle is the most confusing. You cannot allow tests throughout life to effect the rest of your life. Test are supposed to make you stronger and resilient, don't let them stifle you, because you will be stifled the rest of your life. Make this life the best life you possibly can, and keep going no matter how hard it is. Yeah yesterday was disastrous, but today the chances of a brighter day are high. Live positive and watch positive surround you.

Have a great day Ryders, I love all of you !

Squeeze the hell out of life !

Live as if your days are numbered. Scratch off that bucket list, omit fear, shatter doubt and live !

In life it can be so easy to get stuck in a routine. Doing the same thing daily in my opinion is bad for the soul. Add a dash of spontaneity and make things interesting. Live for you, and do all of the things you want to.

So what you don't have money to do everything on your bucket list, improvise. Save money for the most important things you want to experience and take it one step at a time.

Don't set limitations on your life. And don't ever allow someone to place you in a box; Not at school, work, home or anywhere. And never settle for "the norm", you were born an original for a reason. When I initially started my blog I was apprehensive because I've yet to see "lifestyle inspirational" blogs on a massive platform. But then I decide, Why not do something you love and pave the way. After all, if I'm writing relateable material, people will eventually gravitate; and it's been an amazing journey so far as I approach my second month with over 1400 page views, and still surprisingly... international support!

Don't let anyone stifle you or tell you what you can or cannot do. Do what you love and everything else will fall into place. Squeeze the hell out of life until there's no more. No one ever regretted living well, the only regrets are missed opportunities.

What would life be without it's disappointments and reality checks?

I know you're probably saying LOVELY! But it would be very dull and predictable. Although we don't like to experience disappointment, it is inevitable in life. These instances build character and allow us to either become stronger or fold.

There would of course be pros, less heartache, tears and stress. But you would be robotic in a since. How could you ever really appreciate the good days if you've never experienced the bad? That's what I believe disappointments and reality checks are really designed for; To knock you back into life ! Often times we are so obsessed with the latest cars, clothes and gadgets, that we place more value on it than life itself. For all you iPhone users, just think how long you've held your breath when you dropped your phone... yeah I'm guilty too ! lol

Sometimes reality checks can be more crucial than disappointments, you know... those times when you think you are in control of your life, then God throws a curve ball and you realize you aren't lol. Yeah, I have been having those quite often, and although I could be upset, I laugh every time. There's nothing like a wake up call from someone that only wants to see you be great.

But just take a second and think... no disappointments, no reality checks. You would have the same routine life, no surprises, no excitement. You would essentially be in a bubble. Most cases, disappointments alter your perspective, so without it, we would probably be child-like with a wild imagination and content in oblivion. A perfect world has no meaning if you haven't experienced depths within life; Take those disappointments and reality checks as God's way of saying: "Not now, I have something better in store for you". Trust him, he won't lead you astray.

* Here is a snippet of one of my favorite movies The Truman Show, it's about an orphan baby that grows up in a "perfect world" only to find out in adulthood that he is the star in a hidden 24 hour reality show, everything he knows is fake: his friends, parents, and neighbors are all actors. And although he was heartbroken and disappointed, that reality check made him stronger and  resilient. 

Have e a peek below !

Listen to your failures

While it's so easy to sulk and complain about failures or mistakes, you should listen to them instead. As humans we often do things and expect them to happen the way we envisioned them to. But life happens and you have to roll with the punches, even if you are repeatedly getting punched, don't give up !

Life is about learning, that is one common trait that every human being has. You are never too old or young to learn, and sometimes failures are apart of that journey. You may have started a business that wasn't a success, but what did you take away from that experience? Did you learn how to market better? Learn how to manage funds better? Or even site locations to gain the most revenue better? No matter the situation, you should always learn from your mistakes.

 Some of the world's greatest inventors, writers, musicians, and CEO's failed before they succeeded. If they had given up, they wouldn't be where they are today. Stop looking at the now and think of what you want in the future. As I said in a previous post, plant your seeds today and watch them flourish in your future. It's up to you to create your destiny because no one else will do it for you. Let life's adversities and set backs motivate you to become even greater than you've ever imagined you could be. Your future lies in your hands !

If you don't learn from your failures you will find yourself trapped in a constant battle with yourself. You can't expect different results if your continue to use the same formula. It's okay to ask for help, it's better to get help than fail from being uneducated. Don't let fear or pride stop you from reaching your ultimate goal, whatever that may be. If at first you don't success, dust yourself off and try again.

5 reasons...

Life's unanswered questions will remain...

(But I wanted to address them anyway lol)

5. Why does Kanye think he's a God? Last I checked there was only one, so what could Kanye possibly possess that everyone else doesn't, other than an enormous ego? lol Talented musicians yes, god (the lowercase 'g' is intended) NOT A CHANCE IN HELL !

4.  Why do people that flex exist? The worst thing about a facade is that you have to maintain and live up to the standard you have set for yourself. And it has to be believable; do yourself a favor and stop frontin' for the people and live within your means... thanks, management.

3. Why do people cheat? I'm sure there will be several excuses, but why not just break up and go trick off as much as you want? I think cheaters are greedy and selfish, at least be thoughtful enough to at least attempt to save someone heartache.

2. Why don't people go to the dentist regularly? As much as people believe in, going to the dentist is not one of them; which is odd because you'll need your teeth for the rest of your life, not to mention you use them daily. This may seem bias coming from a self proclaimed 'teeth fetish-er' (not sure if I just created a word) but I am a sucker for healthy straight white teeth !

1. Why do people order mashed potatoes and fries together ?! That's like eating pickles and cucumbers together. It's the same damn thing ! What is your ultimate goal... to experience both textures at once? lol