Final divine survivordigital WyJoyful Company's SurvivorWOWs

VOL 5 NO 1

CONTENTS

IN EVERY ISSUE
4 Simply Divine - Publisher’s Piece
6 Reflections

COLUMNS
8 Health &AFitnessLoss
Becoming Weight
Champion

ON THE COVER...
Heavenly Bodies

Rae Lewis Thornton,
AIDS Survivor & Activist

10

By Dr. Nina Ellis-Hervey

15

Chart Toppers

17

DIVINE Destinations

Time Off

18

Fashion & Beauty

19

Food Forte

20

Request A FREE Digital Copy of
DIVINE Magazine

Total Being:
Inside & Out

Money Market

Literature & Entertainment

Top 10 Treatment &
Recovery Centers

Cosmetologists Create
Magic For Cancer Patients

Tasty Recipes For Your
Health

Spiritual Gifts

by emailing freedivinemagazine@gmail.com.
View Your Magazine On Any iPad device
or Smart Phone.

Virtuous Living

Thriving In Financial
Hard Times

Power & Purpose

Lifelines

Soul Connections

by Drenda Keesee

22

The Grief Experience

VISIT OUR
WEBSITE

By Angela Hamblen

24

GET OUR
MOBILE APP

Generations

Armed & Ready: Fighting
Back Against Cyberpredators
& Cyberbullies

12
Of
7 StoriesHope
Survival,
& Restoration

Faith & Family

Your carrier’s standard
rates may apply.

Tell us how you feel about our New Digital magazine
@facebook.com/divinemagazine

PUBLISHER
Megan R. Mottley
publisher@divinemagazineonline.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Kingdom Quality Communicatons

COPY EDITOR
Angela Wilson

INTERN
Natalie Poe

PHOTOGRAPHY
Audria Richmond

CONTRIBUTORS
Greg Broy
Jimmy Cruse
Sharon Fox
Angela Hamblen
Karen Anderson Hardaway
Wyvonia Woods Harris
Dr. Nina Ellis-Hervey
Drenda Keesee
Alfred Milan

Julian Martin
Rosalynne Martin
Tiffoni Mitchell
Summer Owens
Kati Thomas
Rae Lewis Thornton
Alicia West
Chris West
Angela Wilson

MTLY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
1.855.456.4475 Ext. 12
publisher@divinemagazineonline.com
www.divinemagazineonline.com
DIVINE Magazine is a division of
MTLY Communications, Inc.
DIVINE is published quarterly. No portion of this
magazine, including without limitation,
articles and listing, may be reproduced without
the written permission of the publisher.
Send story ideas, questions or concerns to
publisher@divinemagazineonline.com.
Order print issues on our website at
www.divinemagazineonline.com or from our
Digital App available on all Android & iPhone devices.
Request a free digital issue for your laptop, PC or
Kindle devices at freedivinemagazine@gmail.com.
Copyright 2013 by DIVINE
MTLY Communications. All rights reserved.

SIMPLY DIVINE

P U B L I S H E R’S P I E C E

LIVE To Tell Your Story
My middle name is Survivor! Well, not really but it could be and it should be my middle name
because of all the storms that I have survived, the setbacks, the seasons of little to no support and
so on. However, I’m not alone and that’s one thing that I have learned in my lifetime---everyone has a
story to tell. We have all endured certain seasons of our lives that have literally knocked the wind out
of us. A true survivor is not only one who gets up after being knocked down but one who makes it their
daily goal to share their story with others. Your test is your testimony so be transparent. Inspire others
to greatness even when their current circumstances look bleak. Encourage someone going through a
hard time that they will live to tell their story.
In this issue of DIVINE Magazine, that’s exactly what we’ve captured in the pages that
you are about to read. Stories on top of stories of men and women who have lived
to tell their story and those who rise daily to encourage others to keep fighting.
Being a survivor is not about helping yourself but it’s about how many other
people you help to see that they too are survivors. Our Cover Feature, Rae
Lewis Thornton, truly understands this concept as she is an Emmy Award
Winning HIV/AIDS activist who travels the world to share her story.
Drenda Keesee, nationally known talk-show host, shares her story
of how she and her family thrived during difficult financial times.
Lastly, amazing men and women who were nominated by you,
our readers, share their stories of survival that are sure to tug
at your heart and empower you to stand strong in your fight.
Remember that whatever you endure in your lifetime is
designed to make you stronger. It’s designed to help the next
person who’s coming along after you in the same way as the
person who came before you! No matter what you’re facing, be
encouraged. No matter how rocky the road that you’re on, be grateful.
No matter who tells you that you won’t make it, be inspired—to live. You
must live to tell your story!
I pray that you will enjoy this issue because not only will our Survivor stories
make you count your blessings but also because we are moving into the digital
age at full speed. We are unleashing our new Mobile App and our fully digital
publishing platform, a strategy that will give us incredible reach as we inspire readers
to greatness across the globe. Feel free to share this issue via Social Media, email and on
your blogs. In addition, please download our mobile app so you can stay connected to us
on a daily basis. We all need a little push every now and then and our app will be there
to support you on the good days and on those tough days. Our Mobile App is available
in the Android Market and in the iTunes App store. We have survived the print age of
magazine publishing and now we’re impacting lives digitally. I am so excited about
the growth of DIVINE Magazine and I am extremely grateful for all of the support from
sponsors, advertisers and readers over the past six years. I look forward to all that this
NEW season will bring and remember:

Be Encouraged. Be Grateful. Be Inspired.

Megan R. Mottley
Publisher
www.meganmottley.com

4

DIVINE MAGAZINE | SURVIVOR ISSUE

Follow Me on Twitter
@MeganMottley

divinemagazineonline.com

REFLECTIONS

by Alfred Milan, Pastor, Dream Church Memphis

I began to
realize that
there is One
who really
survived and
that is our
Savior Jesus
Christ.

6

When I think of what it means to be
a Survivor, I often think of the lyrics
to Beyonce’s song “Survivor”: “I’m a
survivor, I’m not gon’ give up, I’m not
gon’stop, I’m gon’ work harder, I’m
a survivor”. This is exactly how my
personal story unfolds. I am a Morehouse
graduate but at a certain point in my
life, I encountered a shift. I wanted to
live my life independent of God and
His ways so I, like most people, just
spent my time “doing me”. However, it
wasn’t long before “doing me” would
become a painful experience of being lost,
confused and about to end my life. After
being addicted to drugs for many years,
homeless, divorced, and discouraged, I
learned one important lesson: Seasons
do change! I began to realize that there is
One who really survived and that is our
Savior Jesus Christ. In fact, I accepted the
fact that the storm that I endured for so
long was not for me but for someone who
was meant to grow from my hurt and pain.

does not matter what your storm is or how
long you’ve been in that storm, you can
overcome it!

If you are in a dark place, know that God
is a rewarder of those who diligently
seek Him. Over the course of my life, I
have been broken spiritually, financially,
emotionally, and economically. I thought
I would never see the Grace of God but
it is always here for those who want it. It

To find out more about Pastor Milan
and the Dream Church, visit http://www.
mydreamchurch.com. Become a Fan on
their Facebook Fan Page at http://www.
facebook.com/officialdreamchurch and
Follow the Dream Church on Twitter
@mydreamchurch.


I love Psalm 30:5; it says: “For His anger
is but for a moment, His favor is for a
lifetime; Weeping may last for the night,
But a shout of joy comes in the morning”.
My life experience brought me to the feet
of our Father and all the honor and glory
goes to Him for all of the favor that He
has brought into my life. I am the husband
to an awesome wife and First Lady and
the father of three beautiful children.
I also Pastor 200 people who know
that God can do anything exceedingly,
abundantly above all that we can ask or
think.
No matter what challenges that you face
in life, always remember that there is a
greater one on the inside of you. Never
limit what God can do but know that
seasons do change & favor is yours in
Jesus name.


DIVINE

CONNECTIONS

T O A D V E RT I S E C O N TA C T 1 . 8 5 5 . 4 5 6 . 4 4 7 5

HEALTH & FITNESS

H E A V E N LY B O D I E S

By Dr. Nina Ellis-Hervey

S

even years ago, I found myself
depressed, unhappy, AND fat while
also undergoing career and educational
transformations. Talk about stressed! I
wanted, no, I NEEDED to change. I was
the girl that everyone felt was so happy. I
was a young, new, educationally motivated
Psychology Doctoral student that seemed to
have it “all together”, but looks are not always
what they seem. I had been through several
“unhealthy” relationships, which I knew stemmed from
my lack of self-confidence and self-esteem and I was
determined to change that. I wanted to be my best in
ALL aspects.
In late 2005, I decided while working on my career
transformation, doctoral studies and fixing my broken
self-confidence that I would also fix my badly broken
body. I would begin a quest to holistic health and lose
100 pounds or die trying. I read several books such as
“Weight Loss for Dummies,” “Fitness for Dummies”
and even scoped out workout videos by Jillian
Michaels, Jeanette Jenkins, The Firm, Turbo Fire and
more to exercise at home.

Nina Ellis-Hervey, Ph.D., N.C.S.P., L.S.S.P. is an
Assistant Professor in the School Psychology
Program of Human Services at Stephen F.
Austin State University. Visit Dr. Ellis-Hervey
on YouTube at:
http://www.youtube.com/user/
BeautifulBrwnBabyDol or on her personal
site at http://www.beautifulbrwnbabydol.
com. You can also connect with Dr. EllisHervey on Facebook by searching Nina
“BeautifulBrwnBabyDol”Ellis-Hervey and
Follow her on Twitter @ButflBrwnBbyDol.

In February of 2006, the journey began. I woke
up at the crack of dawn 7 days a week to go to
my school’s gym and I spent nearly 1.5 hours a
day working out. I got over the embarrassment of
being the largest person in the gym working out and
envisioned myself healthy and even more beautiful. I
even researched foods that were good for me to eat, studied body
types and learned about “trigger foods”. In addition, I found ways
to deal with my own psychological difficulties through the training
I was receiving in my Psychology Doctoral program at Oklahoma
State University. I was extremely determined.
In a total of 10 months (around November 2006), I lost 108 pounds
and I have successfully kept the weight off for 7 years. I’ve gone down
from 238 pounds to 130 pounds and I’ve gone from an 18 dress size
to a healthy size 2/4. I can run 5-6 miles easily and even completed
a FULL 26.2 mile marathon. My workouts consist of football drills,
weightlifting and more. I lost weight without any surgeries, fad diets
or excuses, just plain old motivation and hard work.
My weight loss journey was so amazing to everyone, including my
family doctor at the time. She simply said, “Tell me what I should do
to lose my weight”. Since then I have become Dr. Nina Ellis-Hervey
and I am now a Professor at Stephen F. Austin State University
where I help many to achieve their goals. I also help individuals
across the world through my vlog on YouTube, where I address
holistic health and weight loss from the psychological perspective.
Since the weight loss, I realize that it was a journey back to me. I
love myself, I am proud of who I was and also who I am. I cherish

8


life more, love my drive and appreciate myself more for having the
desire to remain happy, healthy and mentally sound.
So I know what you’re thinking. How in the world do you get
there and how do I do it? Don’t worry! Here are 10 simple steps to
become a weight loss champion:

1. GET PERSONAL

Decide that you want this for you and no one else.

2. SET A FEW EASY GOALS

Don’t say, I’m going to run 5 miles tomorrow. Say, I’m going to
walk 10 more minutes than I did yesterday.

3. DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO ANYONE ELSE

This is your race, and no one else is on the track but you. Be real
with yourself. Don’t desire a body that you can never achieve.
Desire to be healthy and your body will do the rest.

4. RELEASE YOUR MIND OF MENTAL WEIGHT
Stop thinking about your past failures and focus on future
triumphs.

5. STOP SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR FAILURE
Being unhealthy is just as bad as being a drug addict. You can’t
go to the places you used to go, hang out with some of the same
people or bring certain foods/items in your home as they may
trigger a relapse that you’ll regret. Step AWAY from the burger!

6. EAT SMART, NOT PERFECT

You can’t ALWAYS be super healthy. Remember this is a lifetime
goal so you are going to want cake and punch sometimes.
Therefore, eat cake and punch SOMETIMES while rotating very
healthy days with a few breaks.

7. LOSE WEIGHT IN OTHER AREAS OF YOUR LIFE

Get rid of the people around you, drama and silly situations that
aid in your emotional eating and psychological stress.

8. LEARN TO DOCUMENT THE FOODS YOU EAT
Journal about your calories, fats, carbohydrates, sugars and
proteins. You will learn what foods work well with your body
and those you should avoid.

9. WORK OUT AT YOUR POTENTIAL

Don’t give up when it gets rough. You will only see results
when you push yourself through.

10. REWARD YOURSELF

Each week you meet a goal or milestone, reward yourself. This
doesn’t always have to be food. It could be new clothes, shoes
or that new gadget you’ve been wanting.

Remember that a healthy lifestyle is forever. It is not a fad diet.
You deserve to be happy and healthy and YOU are the only thing
standing between the two. Stay spiritually sound and stay
connected with those who support you. You can do it!!!

DIVINE

CONNECTIONS




      

       




by aointment only 901 288 7610

T O A D V E RT I S E C O N TA C T 1 . 8 5 5 . 4 5 6 . 4 4 7 5

COVER STORY

DIVINE MAGAZINE

I was diagnosed with HIV
when I was 23 years old.

I learned of my status after
donating blood to the American
Red Cross and they informed me
that I was HIV infected. It was very
early in the AIDS pandemic. There was
no treatment and a lot of misinformation
was still floating around about HIV. Stigma
was very high in the United States and
that led me to keep my infection a secret
out of fear of discrimination. Prior to being
diagnosed with HIV I was an upcoming
national political organizer. By the age of 24, I
had worked on my 2nd Presidential campaign
as a senior staff person. While I knew I was
infected I continued on my career path. I went
to graduate school for my master’s degree in
political science and was planning to get my
Ph.D. However, when I made a transition to
AIDS in 1992 the secret became too much to
bear and I disclosed my status to friends and
family. I made the transition to AIDS at age 27,
my health started to down spiral and I was on a
fast timeline to death. At that point I believed
that my life and what it was like was over, but
in the midst of my darkness, God gave my
life new direction. It was never my goal to be
an AIDS activist. A year after that disclosure,
I started speaking about my life and what it
was like living with HIV. Shortly thereafter,
I became the first African-American woman
to tell my story on the cover of a national
publication (Essence December 1994).
Since then I have become one of the most
recognizable and documented women in the
United States living with HIV/AIDS.

10


Often times when unlikely situations happen,
people tend to view themselves as a victim instead
of a victor. Yes, true enough; a victim is when a
situation happens to a person that they have no
control over. For example a child born with HIV
is a victim, someone who is raped and contracts
HIV or a wife who is infected with HIV by her
husband. However, I am not a victim. I used the
free will that God gave me to make a choice that
left me with HIV. The victory is God’s grace. The
victory is being forgiven for defiling my body and
for the misuse of my free will. It may be a cliché
to some but God took my mess and made it my
ministry. I became the victor when I accepted
God’s new plans for my life and that is to do
God’s work to minister through my life.
I share my story wherever I go to encourage
others to recognize the victory that they can
claim in their own circumstances. I’ve spent
the last 23 years speaking about HIV/AIDS.
Challenging stereotypes and myths about how
one can become infected with HIV and who can
become infected with HIV. I’ve used my life to
show that AIDS is a nondiscriminatory disease.
Speaking very openly and candidly about the
impact of HIV on my life has been the epiccenter of my work. My transparency has been
the one tool that I’ve used well to allow people a
glimpse into the day to day life of what it is like
living with AIDS. As well as, how I got to this
place as a heterosexual, drug-free woman.
In the last three years, as the topic of HIV/
AIDS has become less glamorous in the United

COVER STORY

It is my purpose and assignment to use my life to enrich the
lives of others. I believe that everyday God wakes me up
in the morning that I am ordained to do God’s work. I’m
starting in my own backyard because sadly enough stigma
runs rampant in the black community and in the black church.
I intend to make HIV a household conversation because the
statistics of those becoming infected with HIV is daunting:

• African Americans are over 50% of HIV cases
but only 12% of the total population
• African American women are 68% of all new
cases of women infected with HIV
• 1 of every 2 black gay men are infected
bringing the total of cases to 30,573
• 13,402 cases of HIV was transmitted through
heterosexual contact
• Every 9 minutes someone in the U.S. is
infected with HIV
• In 2011, the estimated number of diagnoses of
HIV infection in the United States was 49,273
With numbers like those, I will never stop educating on
HIV/AIDS. In fact, I have created multiple channels to do
so. I launched RLT Collection, a line of handcrafted fashion
bracelets that I use to connect with women. I intend to make
my jewelry line a household name. My bracelet designs are
beautiful, my clientele is growing by leaps and bounds and I
believe that I can make it even more successful. Just this year
alone, Sheryl Lee Ralph wore my bracelets to the Oscars.
My, Diva Living with AIDS blog receives about 20,000 views
a month and my goal is to make that a weekly number. My
RLT Reads book club has about 100 participants and my
goal is to grow it to be as successful as Oprah’s book club.
I love connecting with fellow tea lovers through Tea with
Rae, my platform to review tea companies. I currently have
20 tea companies on my review list and I am aiming for far

more. The point is, as long as I am living I intend to work at
growing. If you don’t grow, you’re living dead. I strive to
live a life of excellence so I will continue to build and grow
my brands.
At the end of the day, I want to truly help those who are
struggling to cope with the tough circumstances that they
may be facing be it themselves, family members or friends.
The most complicated thing in life is trying to understand
suffering. While I have no explanations on why people
suffer, what I know for sure is that God is with us in our dark
times. What we must do is remember our history with God.
Look back on what you’ve already been through, on what
you have survived, and the testament to God’s ability to keep
you safe in the storm and deliver you from the storm. For
sure living with AIDS has not been easy, but each day I wake,
no matter what I am facing, I am reminded that I am still part
of God’s earthly plan. It’s with that understanding that I keep
it moving. No matter how slow the movements may be.

“

“

States, I’ve turned to other avenues to share my message. The
fact is, every 9 1/2 minutes a person becomes infected with
HIV in the United States and African-Americans are leading
in the cases. While I still speak across the country, I use Social
Media very heavily. On Twitter, I educate my followers from
the time I awake until bedtime to give a glimpse of what one’s
life is like with HIV. On my blog, Diva Living With AIDS, I
provide detailed information about the impact of HIV/AIDS.
My daily posts on Facebook, are honest and forthright. I love
having that connection with my fans and followers because
you never know who you’re inspiring on a daily basis.

DIVINE MAGAZINE

At that point I believed
that my life was over,
but in the midst of my
darkness, God gave
my life new direction.

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM
RAE LEWIS THORNTON:

I’d love to speak at your churches, your
school and your organizations. I can
be reached at my Diva Living With Aids
Blog at http://www.raelewisthornton.
com. Individually, you can support me
by visiting my blog and sharing it with
others. Follow me on twitter
@raelt, on Instagram @RaeLT
and on my Facebook Fan Page at
http://www.facebook.com/
raelewisthornton. There is power in
numbers and numbers will
bring sponsors for me to continue
this work. Lastly, you can check
out my bracelets at RLT
Collection (http://www.rltcollection.com).
Order some for yourself or another
glamorous lady in your life or you can
sell them in your boutiques.

11

7

S T O R I E S O F
SURVIVAL, HOPE
& RESTORATION

Real stories told
byReal Survivors
ALICIA WEST
Not Handicapped, Handi-capable
10 years ago, I was diagnosed with
a neurological disease called Gullian
Barre Syndrome. Let me take you on the
fast version of a very slow journey...
One morning, I headed out the door of
my home just as I normally would. I worked in a corporate
environment in front of a computer all day. On this particular
day, I noticed that my vision was blurred and I was extremely
tired. There was no pain just blurred vision and fatigue. I
asked one of my peers to escort me to my eye doctor to
have my contacts replaced. When I returned to work, I still
had the blurred vision so two of my concerned employees
took me home. That evening, a friend came to take me to
the Emergency Room because I just didn’t feel right. My
equilibrium was off, I was still very tired and I was beginning
to discover that I could not walk.
After running several tests, I was discharged and sent home
but was still unable to walk. I returned to the ER the next
day and was admitted to the ICU. It was there that I was
diagnosed with a neurological disease called Gullian Barre
Syndrome. I spent a month in ICU and two months in a
rehabilitation hospital. I was told by my attending physician
that I might not ever walk again. Needless to say, I was
devastated! My family came to Memphis to fly me home

12


(Orlando), where I would spend the next 14 months in
outpatient rehabilitation to learn to walk and use my hands
again to perform simple tasks such as holding a fork in my
hand and tying my shoes. I was left completely paralyzed!
This life changing experience was the single most
difficult thing I had ever faced. After a year of aggressive
rehabilitation three days a week, I moved from the
wheelchair to a walker and then to a quad cane. My body
started to wake up and I was beginning to “feel” again. Every
time the voice of that doctor telling me that I would never
walk again would ring loudly in my mind, I had to remind
myself that healing would be mine in the awesome name of
Jesus. My Mother encouraged me to begin seeing myself
healed. Once I moved past the severe depression that was
associated with having GBS, the healing began. I stopped
allowing any and everything to negatively influence my
thoughts and my faith walk with the Lord. I never allowed
people to call me “Handicapped” but would encourage
them to use the title that I coined “Handi-Capable”. Today,
I am healed, delivered, and set free of that horrific disease.
By the grace of God, I superceded the prognosis that I had
been given of never being able to walk again.
This slow journey taught me to exercise patience and to
trust God in every area of my life. Had I latched on to what
the doctor believed based on his experience and expertise,
I would still be sitting in my wheelchair. God has continued
to be amazing in my life. Prior to having GBS, I had

never heard of the disease. Since that time, I have been
contacted by other GBS patients and their family members,
requesting a visit from me. It is my great honor to walk in a
hospital room and show those patients that God is real, and
well able to heal their bodies.
WYVONIA WOODS HARRIS
Smile, Touch and Listen
I am a survivor! I drink from a Survivor
Marquesas 2002 cup daily. I am writing
today because of an encounter I had with
one of my friends. I was discussing that
I do not spend time in the sun because
I had been diagnosed with Lupus (SLE)
about 12 years ago. She looked at me
with surprised eyes and said. “I did not know this.” I said,
“Twas Grace that brought me through!” I have shared this
testimony in so many places, so I am amazed and smile
when someone says, “you don’t look like what you have
been through.”
In 2002, I was sitting in the Doctor’s office telling him what
a difficult trip I had while in Las Vegas. I explained that I
was so tired and had so much pain, that I had spent most
of my time in my MGM hotel room. He said these words
to me, “Let us run some tests.” My life changed in a few
weeks, when I sat in the Doctor’s treatment room hearing
these words, “your tests results show you have Lupus.” I
said to him in my best survivor voice, “we need to run more
tests because that is not the result I wanted.” So now I fast
forward approximately 12 years to tell my survivor story.
Today I use the acronyms, “Smile, Touch and Listen” as my
WOW for survival.
SMILE
Send an encouraging message
Make friends quickly
Invite special Moments
Live and Love a lot
Enjoy Everything
TOUCH
Take time to treasure others
Open your heart and hand
Understand needs and work to erase them
Cherish Change
Hold on to hope and healthy habits
LISTEN
Let words flow in the spirit of healing
Identify positive people and purposes
Stay tuned in
Treat others well
Embrace events and experiences
New opportunities begin with new days

JULIAN AND ROSALYNNE
How We Survived The Buy Now,
Pay Later Myth
We were two working professionals, college
educated with thousands of dollars in debt-student loan debt, credit card debt, car loan
debt, and personal loan debt. We decided
that enough was enough and that the time
had come for us to save more money instead

of giving it away each pay period. We enrolled in a financial
stewardship class at church to learn about strategies to
help eliminate the debt efficiently. It took several years to be
completely debt free from consumer debt, but “consistency”
was the key to our victory. The strategy known as
“snowballing” was a simple yet life-changing strategy that
helped us to conquer this molehill of debt. To start the
process of debt elimination, we recorded every penny owed
from smallest to greatest. The smallest debt was paid off
first and then the payment that would normally go toward
that bill was added to the next smallest debt. This was done
until all the debt on our list was ELIMINATED.
The key to surviving debt elimination was sticking to our plan
to pay off debt, resisting the urge to create any additional
debt, and to avoid impulsive purchases. We would, however,
celebrate the small victories of our teamwork paying off.
Once completely debt free of consumer debt, we continued
to pay on our credit card balance each month to avoid
interest payments and we also saved for large purchases.
Financial freedom is rare in a buy now, pay later society but
we are grateful that we had the courage to take a class that
changed our finances for the better. We are faithful tithers
who strive to live within our means and we are thankful
for every opportunity that the Lord gives us to share our
testimony of financial freedom to encourage others.
JIMMY CRUSE
The Ultimate Wake Up Call
No matter how strong the winds or how
long it lasts, no storm lasts forever.
Raised by a single parent, my mother
did her best to raise a man. Despite
her efforts, there were some things
a woman could not teach a boy. The
neighborhood and schools I went to were rough and survival
was for the fittest. Being bullied and beat on like every
other child, I fell into a category that psychologists have
long classified as being headed for the wrong direction.
Surprisingly enough, I became a criminal. I excelled in my
new profession as I reached my mid-twenties but while
claiming to be intelligent, I didn’t realize there were federal
agents just as smart as me.
In 2001, I was sentenced to 12 years in the western district
of Tennessee. My mother remained by my side and assured
me according to her prayer partner that I would not serve
the entire time. She was correct. In 2009, I was released
due to an amendment to the federal sentencing guidelines.
I proclaimed to know the true and living God yet being poor
again was a transition for me. I had been warned in prison
by a prayer partner to never return to the drug business or
I would surely die. This man of God also told me that God
would tell me twice to confirm that what he was telling me
was true. Needless to say, 24 hours later my best friend
called to tell me that he had dreamed of my funeral. I may
be disobedient at times but I do fear God and that is the
beginning of wisdom.
To deal with the new issues and schisms in my life, I began
to drink heavily. One night in 2010, while speeding in my
Jeep Cherokee, I swerved and drove off the side of a
bridge. My jeep fell three stories and was crushed at the
bottom of the bridge. By God’s grace alone, I climbed to
the top of the bridge and notified authorities. Six broken
ribs and a crushed ankle were the only injuries I sustained.
After surviving this, I should have learned my lesson, but

13

just one year later after drinking and driving, I crashed my
car off the same bridge. This time I was barely injured, but
arrested. I begged God over and over for forgiveness but
unfortunately I was still on probation and had to pay society
for my deeds. When I thought things couldn’t get any worse,
they did. One night after an argument with my girlfriend, her
brother picked up a machete while my back was turned.
Angels raised my arms (literally) and the machete struck
my forearm as opposed to my neck or head. I was rushed
to the hospital only to hear it again: “It’s a miracle that you
weren’t killed”. It took 40 years of my life but I’m finally free
from turmoil. I have lived to publish my first book entitled,
“The Greatest Case of Identity Theft Ever: Stealing The
Identity of a Nation” which can be found on Amazon.com. I
am a true Survivor and I am at peace.
SUMMER OWENS
S.O. What!
On my 15th birthday, I became
impregnated after a forced sexual
encounter by a friend of a relative.
He was gone after that. I went on to
be named most likely to succeed in
high school and graduate number 8 in my class of 300. I
earned a full Leadership Scholarship to the University of
Memphis, and my faith, hard work and commitment paid
off. I graduated magna cum laude earning a Bachelor of
Business Administration degree in Marketing and the title of
Miss University of Memphis in 2001 all as a single mother.
I maintained a progressive career which included marketing
management positions for the NBA franchise, the Memphis
Grizzlies and ServiceMaster. For the past six years, I’ve worked
for the FedEx Corporation as a marketing specialist advisor.
Three years ago I wrote my memoir, Life After Birth: A Memoir of
Survival and Success as a Teenage Mother, to encourage other
teen moms and to help prevent teen pregnancy. In June 2013,
I left my wonderful corporate job to launch S.O. What! LLC and
The S.O. What! Foundation, both teach people (not just teen
moms) to eliminate excuses from their lives to achieve success
no matter what obstacles they may face.
It is wonderful using my life’s pains and victories to change the
lives of others. To date, I have delivered nearly 200 motivational
speeches to schools, churches and other organizations that
support teen mothers, have initiatives to prevent teen pregnancy,
or simply want to hear a story of overcoming obstacles. I’ve been
named Top 40 Under 40 by the Memphis Business Journal and
Outstanding Young Alumna by the University of Memphis
Fogelman College of Business and Economics. I received the
Tri-State Defender’s Women of Excellence award, McDonald’s
Community Hero award, and Women of Achievement Heroism
award. My story has been featured nationally on CNN Headline
News and the 700 Club, as well as in numerous local media
outlets including the Commercial Appeal, the Memphis Business
Journal, and Memphis Parent magazine.
All the trials that I’ve endured in my life have actually led me to
my calling. When I graduated from high school, I had a two year
old son on my hip so in essence he graduated with me. In May
2013, my son graduated from high school and as his 34 year old
mom, I graduated with him!
I have dedicated my life to sharing my story to improve the lives
of others. I am currently a mentor with the Adolescent Parenting
Program and the Leadership Program at the University of
Memphis. I serve on the board of directors for the Memphis
Exchange Club and WriteMemphis. I am a graduate of the New
Memphis Institute. Find out more about my story at
www.SummerOwens.com

14


KAREN ANDERSON HARDAWAY
Beaten But Not Broken
Where did being in an abusive
relationships start for me? Part of it was
during my senior year of high school, I
was raped by someone I briefly dated.
One day, he became enraged with
anger and RAPED me. He threw me
on the bed, ripped my clothes off and with my hands bound,
he yelled for me to shut-up, spit in my face and cursed at
me as if I was nothing. To make matters worse, his friend
watched and did nothing. I was afraid, I felt dirty, I didn’t call
the police or tell my father. I was the pastor’s daughter. I was
damaged goods. Months later, I found out I was pregnant.
I went full term with no pre-natal care, even went to college
and my son was delivered while I was a freshman at Virginia
State University in Petersburg, VA.
I married a church musician and thought it was for life. In
2002, he hit me for the first time and after his promises
to never to do it again, I went back. In early 2004, all hell
broke loose. Out of nowhere, a kick, a shove, a real fight
broke out. The day after my 35th birthday, I was literally
fighting for my life. He threw me into a closet and began to
choke me with his hands and a pair of pants. He broke my
cell phone, the home phone was pulled out of the wall, he
was throwing my clothes and the furniture into the hallway,
my clothes were ripped off my body, my nails cracked in
half from fighting, my face had scratches, and my legs
were bruised. He treated me like I was a piece of garbage.
Again, like I was nothing. That same night he threatened to
kill me. When I finally escaped from the apartment, I ran to
a neighbor’s house to use the phone to call the police and
my girlfriend. Eight police officers later, I grabbed clothes,
pictures and whatever else I could grab from the apartment
and left. I ended up living in a hotel for a month. I was a total
mess and still broken into pieces.
No place to stay, name on a lease, with keys, but couldn’t
get in. I couldn’t believe this was happening again. I had
actually run into a brick wall. The more people I called, the
more I felt alone. I called local pastors, deacons; however
no help. It was only by the grace of God that I survived.
My testimony produced a book entitled Broken Into Pieces,
which is available at www.amazon.com where I share my
story of survival in detail.
CHRIS WEST
Leaving A Legacy of Hope
In 2010, I had what I thought was an
ear infection and a swollen lymph node
in my neck. It turned out to be Stage
IV throat (base of tongue) cancer. I
spent the next several months battling
a disease with multiple surgeries,
chemotherapy, and 7 weeks of daily
radiation therapy. I remember asking my physician for
theories on why this happened, as I don’t have any of the
typical risk factors for this disease. “It doesn’t matter why
you have it,” he explained. “The only thing that matters is
what you will do about it. Focus all your efforts on not only
surviving this but thriving”.
With a new sense of self-determination, I reached out to
one of my best friends who is also a cancer survivor. He
gave me 3 pieces of advice: a) Trust in God – He has a

LITERATURE & ENTERTAINMENT

plan for you; b) Trust in your physician and
do everything he/she tells you to do; and c)
Lean on your friends and family for help. As
it turns out, that was pretty good advice. My
wife Renee was a rock throughout. In many
ways, cancer is tougher on the caregiver; not
only did she attend every appointment and
treatment; she also had to care for our two
boys, communicate with friends and family,
and keep our family going.
It wasn’t long before our family and friends
felt a deep emotional desire to help us in our
time of need. As the time went by they were
becoming increasingly frustrated because
they weren’t really sure how to help. In fact,
we resisted any help at first until a friend
finally told me, “Chris, will you just tell us
what you need? Let us do our job as your
friend!” A light bulb went on and during one
of the toughest seasons of my life, I created
NeedRegistry.com, a way to make it easy for
others to help – streamlining communications,
scheduling meals, and fundraising for products
and services to help my family.
Prior to my cancer diagnosis, I was an
executive in the Pharmaceutical/Biotech
industry, and very much focused on climbing
the corporate ladder. While my new company
was fantastic to my family during my battle
with cancer, I returned to work. It was then
that I realized that I had a different calling in
life: to help others going through a time of
need. We were blessed to have the love and
help of so many, but there are so many others
who don’t have that same support.
NeedRegistry is still a young company,
so one goal is to grow it into a successful
organization as a means to help others and
provide for my family. For now, I still have a
full-time job as the director of a local nonprofit
cancer foundation in addition to being a
husband and father of active twin boys. I
normally wake up around 5:30 a.m. and either
exercise or catch up on work. After working a
full day, squeezing in business meetings over
lunch, I’m involved with my kids: either sports
or homework. After they’re in bed, I usually
start working on NeedRegistry, often meeting
my partner online around 9 p.m. to talk about
web development priorities.
Cancer evokes many emotions, none more
powerful than fear. I hope my story will inspire
others to not only fight and survive their
most difficult battles, but to also discover a
purpose-driven life. I’d like other survivors to
know that not only can you survive this trial,
but use it as a springboard to help others. My
journey led me to start a company that I heard
my son describe to another friend by saying
“My dad started a company to help people
when they need it most.” How cool is that?
If you want to help a loved one in their time
of need, create an account for them today at
http://www.NeedRegistry.com.


SPIRITUAL GIFTS

CHART
toppers

TOP 10 Most Popular Survivor Books
1. Making Good Habits, Breaking Bad Habits:
14 New Behaviors That Will Energize Your
Life by Joyce Meyer
2. Gods at War: Defeating the Idols That
Battle for Your Heart by Kyle Idleman
3. One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully
Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp
4. Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the
Midst of Raw Emotions by Lysa TerKeurst
5. The Bondage Breaker: New Edition
by Neil T. Anderson
6. Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless
Love and Redemption
by Katie J. Davis, Beth Clark
7. Glamour Girl: How To Get The Ultimate
Makeover by Megan Mottley
8. The Purpose Driven Life: What on
Earth Am I Here For? Expanded 10th
Anniversary Edition by Rick Warren
9. Keep Going: Overcoming Doubts about
Your Faith by Neil Martin
10.Jesus + Nothing = Everything
by Tullian Tchividjian

TOP 5 Christian Albums (About Survival)
1. Hello Fear - Kirk Franklin
2. All Things Are Possible - Mark Schultz
3. Miracle - Third Day
4. The Struggle Tenth - Avenue North
5. The Upside of Down - Chris August

TOP 5 Gospel Albums (About Survival)
1. Beginnings - Marvin Sapp
2. I Win - Marvin Sapp
3. Songs of Emotional Healing - CeCe Winans
4. The Journey - Andraé Crouch
5. Till the Storm Passes - Lynda Randle

15

14

DIVINE MAGAZINE FALL/WINTER ISSUE

DIVINE DESTINATIONS

TOP 10
Treatment & Recovery Centers

TIME OFF

THE CENTER FOR COUNSELING AND HEALTH RESOURCES
Seattle, Washington
Treatment Programs: Depression, Addictions, Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Abuse

www.aplaceofhope.com
CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA
Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Tulsa, Seattle
Treatment Programs: Acupuncture, Chemotherapy, Gastroenterology, Hormone Therapy,
Nutrition Therapy, Survivorship Support

www.cancercenter.com
SIERRA TUCSON DEPRESSION TREATMENT CENTER
Tucson, Arizona
Treatment Programs: Trauma & Abuse, Depression, Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Anxiety/
Panic Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Pain Management, Addiction with Drugs,
Alcohol, etc., and Eating Disorders

www.sierratucson.com
JOHN HOPKINS MEDICINE
Baltimore, Maryland
Treatment Programs: Aneurysm, Burn, Diabetes, Fertility, Headache, Lupus, Memory &
Alzheimer’s Treatment Center

www.hopkinsmedicine.org/about/centers_departments
YOUTHCARE RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER
Draper, Utah
Treatment Programs: For 11- 18 year olds who have Depression or Thought Disorders, Social
Withdrawal or Poor Self-Esteem due to Learning Disorders, Substance Abuse, or other SelfDestructive Behaviors

www.youthcare.crhealth.com
ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL
Memphis, TN
Treatment Programs: Brain Tumor, Leukemia/Lymphoma, Phase I and II Clinical Trials, Sickle
Cell, Solid Tumor, Stem Cell Bone Marrow Transplant

www.stjude.org
ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION TREATMENT CENTER
Newport Beach, California
Treatment Programs: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive
Disorder, Social Phobia, Other Phobias, Health Anxiety (Hypochondrias) , Tourettes Disorder,
Tic Disorder, Tricotillomania, Autism, High Functioning Autism, Non-Verbal Learning Disability,
Learning Disability, ADD, Attention Deficit Disorder and Depressive Disorders

www.anxietyanddepressioncenter.com

CENTER FOR CELIAC RESEARCH & TREATMENT
Boston, Massachusetts
Treatment Programs: Clinical Care, Diagnostic Support, Education, and Clinical and Basic
Science Research in Celiac Disease

www.celiaccenter.org
AUTISM TREATMENT CENTER OF AMERICA™

Sheffield, Massachusetts
Treatment Programs: All programs are designed especially for parents to teach parents how to
effectively get help for Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome and effectively work with their children

www.autismtreatmentcenter.org
THE CARROLL CENTER FOR THE BLIND
Newton, Massachusetts
Treatment Programs: Computer Training, Education for the Blind, Independence For Elders,
Summer Programs for Youth, Vocational Rehabilitation

www.carroll.org



17

FASHION & BE AUT Y

TOTA L BEI N G: I NSI D E & O UT

When a woman has cancer, she has
to deal not only with the trauma of the
disease, but also the debilitating effects of
cancer treatment on her skin, hair, nails
and general appearance.

self-image and confidence as it is
about appearance,” said Greg Broy,
spokesperson for the American Cancer
Society.
“Patients enjoy the opportunity to
spend time in a relaxed, non-medical
setting with others in the same situation.
The free make-up and instruction from
professionals help them look and feel
better,” said Broy.
According to the American Cancer
Society, there are dozens of anti-cancer
drugs in use today, each with its own set
of side effects.

sessions.
During these free group sessions, the
volunteers teach women how to cope with
skin changes and hair loss using cosmetics
and skin care products donated by the
cosmetic industry.
They also demonstrate beauty
techniques that can enhance a patient’s
appearance and self-image and help
minimize the physical effects of cancer
treatment.
Free cosmetic kits are provided in

Nearly 14 million Americans who
have survived cancer -- and countless
others who have avoided it – will
celebrate a birthday this year, thanks
to the progress the American Cancer
Society is making to help people stay
well and get well, to find cures, and
fight back.

These changes in appearance often
affect a woman’s self-esteem, and many
need help coping with the physical side
effects of treatment.
Licensed cosmetologists from all parts
of the country are using their skills and
positive energy to make a difference in
these women’s lives.
Working with the Look Good Feel
Better program, specially trained
cosmetologists help female cancer
patients rescue their appearance and
self-image from the ravages of cancer
treatment by teaching them hands-on
beauty and skin care techniques. As a
result, patients feel better because they
look good.
“Look Good Feel Better is as much
about improving and maintaining

18


Possible appearance-related effects of
chemotherapy and radiation include hair
loss on the scalp, eyebrows, or lashes;
weight gain or loss; changes in skin
pigmentation and texture; skin oiliness,
itchiness or peeling; and alterations in
nail texture and growth rate.
The American Cancer Society recruits
licensed cosmetologists to volunteer as
facilitators. Once the cosmetologists have
been trained and certified, the American
Cancer Society works with community
health care providers to initiate group

various shades to accommodate most
complexion types. Women also learn
ways to disguise hair loss with wigs,
scarves and other accessories.
The Look Good Feel Better program is
offered as a partnership of the American
Cancer Society, Personal Care Products
Council Association, and National
Cosmetology Association. The program
does not endorse particular products,
manufacturers or salons.
For more information about the Look
Good Feel Better Program or cancer,
contact the American Cancer Society 24
hours a day at 1-800-227-2345 or visit
cancer.org.

FOOD FORTE

V I RTUO US LI V I N G

No longer does “healthy food” mean tasteless food.
In fact, eating healthy can be a tasty
and delightful experience! If you have
Diabetes, Celiac Disease or you have
special dietary needs, these recipes
will help you to stay on track with
maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
PINEAPPLE &
AVOCADO SALSA
APPLES & CHICKEN
1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. white pepper
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. ground sage
2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 Tbsp. canola oil
4 medium Granny Smith apples, thinly sliced
2 cups apple cider
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
1 cup whole milk
Mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sage in a
shallow pan. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture.
Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium
heat. Add chicken and brown each side for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and
milk. Stir in apple cider. Add apple slices and cider
mixture to the chicken. Simmer, uncovered, until the
apples are tender. This should take about 20 minutes.
The cider should reduce by half during this time.
Transfer to a serving platter. Serves 8.
Calories: 304, Total Carbs: 25.6g, Dietary Fiber: 3.4g, Sugars:
16g, Total Fat: 7.9g, Saturated Fat: 1.4g, Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g,
Potassium: 343.1mg, Protein: 31.5g, Sodium: 105.9mg, Dietary
Exchanges: 1 Fat, 1 1/4 Fruit, 4 Very Lean Meat

SWEET POTATO PIE
1 frozen 9 inch pie crust, deep dish
2 cups baked sweet potato
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
12 oz. fat-free evaporated milk
3 eggs
3/4 cup granulated sweetener (Stevia or Splenda)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. salt
10 Tbsp. Cool Whip Lite, for serving
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a medium size bowl,
add the sweet potato, butter, milk, and eggs. Beat
with an electric mixer until smooth. Add sweetener,
vanilla, and spices. Mix well. Pour into pie shell and
place on a cookie sheet, to prevent spilling into oven.
Bake 35-40 minutes, until set. Cool on a wire rack.
Serve at room temperature or chilled. Top with 1 Tbsp.
Cool Whip Lite. Makes 10 servings.
Calories: 137.1, Total Carbs: 16.1 (pumpkin) or 33.2 (sweet potato), Dietary Fiber: 2.1g, Sugars: 4.9g, Total Fat: 7.1g, Saturated
Fat: 3.3g, Unsaturated Fat: 3.8g, Potassium: 118.8mg, Protein:
5.6g, Sodium: 173.4mg, Dietary Exchanges: 1/4 Fat, 1/4 Meat,
1/4 Milk, 1/2 Other Carbohydrates.


1 fresh pineapple, peeled and diced
1 medium avocado, peeled and diced
1/3 cup red onion, chopped
4 stalks celery, finely chopped
1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
1 tsp. lime zest
1/4 tsp. salt
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Cover with plastic
wrap and chill at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve with baked chips as an appetizer. Also very
delicious as a condiment over baked or grilled fish or
meats!
Calories: 28.7, Total Carbs: 5g, Dietary Fiber: 0.9g, Sugars: 2.5g,
Total Fat: 1.1g, Saturated Fat: 0.1g, Unsaturated Fat: 1g, Potassium: 70.3mg, Protein: 0.6g, Sodium: 42mg, Dietary Exchanges:
1/4 Fat

Recipes courtesy of Sharon Fox from her NEW Cook
Book, “HEALTHY FOOD for Diabetes, Celiac Disease,
and You!” Available at Amazon.com or
www.elementsofanewday.com/apps/webstore/


19

MONEY MARKET | P O W E R & P U R P O S E

By: Drenda Keesee
Many years ago, my husband Gary
and I faced our own financial crisis. We
had moved to Ohio to do what God had
directed us would be our end-time work.
We thought that because we had God’s
Word on the situation, and if we obeyed
that Word, we would be on easy street.
What we were too naive to recognize is that
there is always a fight for God’s Word—
especially where money is concerned. We
found ourselves strapped with existing debt
and less income while starting all over in
Ohio. The next few years would prove to
be rocky with great pressures on both our
finances and marriage.
One day under great distress, we
talked about throwing in the towel on
our business. It just wasn’t working no
matter how hard we tried. After almost a
year of this, we both had lost sight of why
we had moved and our dreams of what it
would be like to have success…..and most
importantly, to be an example of God to
our family members.
Tearfully, we prayed and asked God
what to do. Had we missed His will?
Where was our promise? Was there any
hope we could make it? While we were
having a serious discussion, a mail delivery
truck pulled up and delivered a package.
We opened it realizing it was from a
ministry we had occasionally called for
prayer and had sent some offerings when
we could. Enclosed was a teaching series
entitled, “Don’t Quit!”—it couldn’t have
been more perfect timing!
We listened to it over the next day.
Encouraged, we didn’t quit and God
breathed new strength and vision in our
hearts! We simply received some provision
for the vision, on the way to the promise
God had given us.
Sometimes we expect the promise to
come immediately, but we had to walk
out the timing until our business started
to lift off. We decided to stick with it and
persevere. My husband started delivering

20


soda pop to his father’s local restaurant
as a side job while he continued to build
our business. It was a little cash to keep us
afloat. But we didn’t take our eyes off the
vision while he worked part-time to fund
the vision.
One night not long after that, I made up
my mind I would not go to bed until God
spoke to me. I remember thinking, if Jacob
could wrestle with an angel to get what
he wanted, I can do the same until I hear
from God about our situation. Surprisingly,
I discovered that God was just as eager
to spend time speaking to me as I was to
hear something. I got my Bible and began
to pray and search the scriptures. I started
reading in Haggai. Out of all places, God
spoke to me out of that small book of the
Bible.
The book of Haggai paints a picture of
Israel’s lack because the people had left
God’s work in ruins. God says to them that
because His house was in ruins while they
built their lives, He had not blessed their
work or their lives.
I couldn’t help but think about how hard
we had been trying to build our business,
family, and life without really seeking
God first and foremost. We attended
church regularly but we had one foot in
God’s Kingdom and one foot in ours. We
would seek God for a season and then
the circumstances would pressure us into
leaning to our old ways again. Sometimes
we tithed and sometimes we didn’t. Sure
we prayed and went to church, but it
was more because we felt like we were
supposed to rather than an all-out choice to
honor and seek Him first.
I went on to read in Haggai where God
says, “Is there any seed left in the barn?” I
knew a little about planting financial seeds
from my time at Oral Roberts University,
but we literally didn’t have any money
to seed into God’s house. I said, “God, I
don’t have anything left to give you, but
me. I give you my life, such as it is, and

anything you want me to do to build your
Kingdom, I WILL.” God spoke back to me
in my heart. “I am going to use you and
Gary to help my people in their marriages
and finances, and you will bring my people
out of financial bondage.” I pictured how
God used Moses to lead the Israelites out
of Egypt, but we would lead people out of
debt and into their promised land.
Excited, I woke Gary up from a deep
sleep. “God is going to use us to help
people with their finances and marriages!”
In a less-than-happy voice, he said, “I
wish He’d show me first!” He was so
discouraged that he struggled to see it, but
I was enthused to pray and believe God’s
Word again. I got the answer I was seeking.
This vision of helping others would propel
us through difficulties in the future and
paint a picture of purpose for our fight to
the finish line.
After a few weeks, God gave Gary a
dream. In the dream, a caterpillar crawled
out on a limb and spun a cocoon. From the
cocoon came a great and beautiful butterfly.
He then heard the words, “This is how your
business and life will be. Follow my plan
and give your business to me.”
We left the company vendor we were
using and God orchestrated a new focus to
our business where we incorporated His
Word into our business practices. We got
more and more excited about sharing God’s
Word, and now our business didn’t seem
so much like a business as it did a mission!
We were excited for each new day and
God began to download ideas to us both
about how to build our company and help
people. The Word of God became alive and
we saw things in it about money, life and
priorities that we had previously not seen.
A struggling business began to take new
form. It was still quite a few years before
we saw it take off and fly, but it was on its
way. More hurdles came that we had to
persevere through, but we had learned to
seek His Will for our life instead of doing

MONEY MARKET | P O W E R & P U R P O S E
our own thing and expecting Him to bless it.
A few years later, our business became
the number one office in the entire nation
and my husband was asked to share his
success at a national convention. We
weren’t striving for this goal, but rather
following the passion of God’s plan for our
life. Today, that business and the seed we
sowed from it has produced a harvest we
could not have imagined then.
Why is there a fight over your finances?
The Bible says you cannot serve two
masters. You will love the one and hate the
other. Money (or unrighteous mammon) is
a tool that gives us the ability to carry out a
mission and solve problems. Without it, we
are tempted to always think about the need
for it. Surprisingly enough, it is not the rich
who are always thinking about money, but
rather those who need money. The enemy
wants to keep you serving money rather
than the purpose of God. If he can press
you in the area of finances, he can rob you
of your time seeking God and fulfilling His
destiny for your life. Serve is a verb and
if you don’t have financial provision, you
will be tempted to pursue money and worry
rather than serve God.
We learned that as we truly placed
God’s mission of the Kingdom
advancement as a priority, our finances
became supplied with the provision we
needed to run our race. Having money,
or the things it can buy, is not a purpose
even though that becomes the life pursuit
of many. Money is to fund purpose,
the purposes of God. In order to thrive
financially, find your purpose in advancing
God’s Kingdom and then your labors,
business and life will take on a whole new
purpose.
The same God who directs your steps
to your purpose, will give you the creative
ideas and direction to fund and propel you
in that purpose. God has led us to invest
in businesses and areas that prospered. We
have had streams of income dry up through
the years, but never without God leading us
to a new stream that ended up being more
profitable. Don’t be surprised if you pray
for increase and God closes the door on a
current job or leads you to a new business.
Or He may give you a new twist to your
current business. Because the Kingdom of
God is within you, out of your spirit will
flow the direction you need to thrive in
economic hard times. The Kingdom of God
is not subject to this world’s economy, but
you do need strategies from the Spirit to
thrive in difficult times.
Our nation is far from recovering from
the many years of debt-laden lifestyles,

improper usage of entitlement programs,
and excessive printing of the dollar.
We have only begun to see the bumps
in the road of financial uncertainty and
the dollar’s volatility in world markets.
Because as a nation we have turned from
the principles of God’s Word there has been
a loss of individual freedoms, and a day
of reckoning for our gross overspending
in Washington is still unfolding. However,
God will protect and help His children
operate in His Kingdom; and those who
do, will be like Elijah, fed by ravens in a
famine. We do not need to fear but rather
prepare as Joseph did by the Spirit of God.
And we must live by faith.
Here are some of the practical
principles we have received by the Spirit
through the years that have paid off greatly
in our finances:
1. Seek first the Kingdom of God.
2. Give tithes regularly and offerings by
faith targeted for specific needs.
3. Get out of and stay out of debt!
4. Seek God’s way of meeting a need
instead of relying on debt.
5. Sell unneeded items and create an
emergency cash fund (six months
income is the goal but start with
$2,000 minimum).
6. Give God your tithe first, then pay
your savings account at least 10% of
your income; live off the rest.
7. Invest in gold and silver for such
unstable times, as well as commodities
like food, and the necessities of life,
since these will continue to increase in
value and unnecessary items will take
a downturn.
8. Consider a career change if yours is
not recession/inflation proof.
9. Projected business growth areas are:
general medical practice and related
businesses, financial counsel, repair
work (automotive, home, etc.),
large scale farming, and low-ticket
restaurants and retail vs. high-end.
10. For business owners: increase your
customer service so your business tops
competitors in client satisfaction and
repeat business; make your product
more affordable and appeal to larger
numbers of clients.
11. Give---and then live on less than you
make.
God has always provided for His people
in times of famine, national disaster and
hardships. Build your life in His Kingdom
and not the uncertainty of this world’s
systems that are crumbling before our
eyes. The upside to all of the shaking in
this world is that many will recognize their

need for a Savior. Get your financial house
in order so you can be ready to reach them
with His Love and Provision.

For more of Drenda’s story and
information on how you can follow God’s
principles in your life and finances, get
Drenda’s book, “She Gets It” at
www.drenda.com or wherever books are
sold. Also available: “Fixing the Money
Thing” and “Money Mysteries from the
Master” by Gary Keesee.
For personal assistance contact:
www.forwardfinancialgroup.com or call
1-888-815-0818.
Together the Keesee’s founded Forward
Financial Group, a financial services
corporation through which they have
helped thousands of families get out of
debt, save and invest wisely for over thirty
years (www.forwardfinancialgroup.com).
Gary and Drenda pastor a thriving
congregation at Faith Life Church in New
Albany, OH. They can be seen daily on
“Fixing the Money Thing” on Daystar.
Drenda also hosts her own program,
“Drenda”, airing on ABC Family and
Daystar weekly. Drenda has a passion to
minister God’s power to heal the fallout
from the breakdown of families. She and
Gary have raised five children, all serving
in ministry. For more information
go to www.Drenda.com.


21

LIFELINES

SOUL CONNECTIONS

The Grief Experience
by Angela Hamblen, Director of the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief

G

rief is a universal experience but one that is not often talked out. Grieving the
loss of a loved one is different for each person who experiences it.
“There are no road maps, no directions,” said Angela Hamblen, director of
the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief, a comprehensive bereavement
center offering free counseling, seminars and camps for the entire community.
“What one person goes through is totally different from what another person may
experience.”
That is why, in 1999, Baptist created the area’s first bereavement camp for children,
Camp Good Grief. Since its inception, Camp Good Grief has served more than
1,000 children, and the camp program has expanded to include a camp for teens and
for adults.

“Camp Good Grief has
served more than 1,000
children and the camp
program has expanded
to include a camp for
teens and for adults.”

The Center for Good Grief, where
Hamblen and her staff of five grief
counselors have seen more than
6,000 clients since the Center opened
in late 2010, are experts at dealing
with all the emotions grief brings
about and helping clients navigate
their way through them.

Hamblen compares the grief
experience to standing at the edge
of an ocean. When you stand there
looking out at the waves, the water is
just covering your feet but you can still feel it. The waves can change in an instant.
A strong wave may come and you will have to plant your feet to keep from falling
down. Another wave may hit you from out of blue and you may stumble.
“The feelings are like the different waves,” she said.
At camp, children are led through age-appropriate activities to help them deal with
grief, such as building a memory box, participating in drum circles, and learning
about their feelings and proactive ways of remembering. However, not all camp
activities are focused on dealing with grief.
“We have plenty of play time and outdoor activity,” Hamblen said. “Sometimes,
kids just need to be kids and know that it is OK to still have fun even when they are
grieving the loss of a loved one.”
At the Center, rooms are designated for different age groups of children, and
Hamblen’s staff is skilled at knowing how to deal appropriately with all age groups,
including adults.

SIGNS SOMEBODY NEEDS HELP:
• Chronic depression
• Isolation from family & friends
• Academic failure or
overachievement
• Dramatic changes in personality,
attitude
• Drug & alcohol abuse
• Fighting or legal troubles
• Change in sleeping/eating patterns
• Suicidal thoughts
• Increased feelings of hopelessness
• Inability to re-establish a routine
• Change in social activity
• No outlet for emotions
TIPS FOR FAMILIES/FRIENDS IN
ORDER TO HELP SOMEONE WHO
IS GRIEVING:
•
•
•
•
•

Have Compassion
Avoid Clichés
Listen, Listen…
Know your Resources
Silence – you don’t have to have all
the answers
• Learn about Grief
• Understand The Person’s Need to
Ask “Why”

“We see people from two-year olds to 90-year-olds at the Center,” Hamblen said.
For more information about the Center for Good Grief, please call 901-861-5656 or
visit bmhgiving.org.

Find out even more about
Baptist Memorial Health Care at

www.baptistonline.org

www.facebook.com/BaptistOnline

22



Bullying and Child Predators are
nothing new to our society. These
terrorists have existed since Cain
killed Abel. Yet now there seems
to be a proliferation of news stories
expressing the war of terror both bullies
and child predators are presenting
to the American family. Alarming
news stories are unfolding daily like
the group of African American males
mercilessly beating a white teen on a
school bus while the bus driver filmed
the entire psychologically disturbing
ordeal during which no one including
other passengers stopped to aid the
victim. Upon hearing about such
stories, there’s usually outrage but
no solution. There was a lot of talk at
holding the children and their parents
accountable but the accountability is
always a legal accountability. Then the
question was posed, where are all the
Anti-Bullying groups?
As a Clinical Psychologist, I see
all the varying threads of psychosis
weaved within the aggression of the
incident, the lack of apathy of the
witnesses and within our American
culture as a whole. As a Certified
Child Safety Advocate, I am not only
outraged but I am actively working
within our local & state communities
to educate my neighbors, friends
and all who see the need to rescue
not only our American lifestyles and
cultures but the lobbying for increased
access to mental health, SEL (social
emotional learning) curriculums in
our schools and laws that are both
punitive but restorative as it relates
to bullying. As a mother, I am most
concerned for the angry, aggressive
children who perpetrated this horrible
and violent aggression against a fellow
student, the victim whose respect,
humanity and safety was egregiously
violated and the parents who are left
to clean up the mess. Kids are a direct
reflection of our efforts or lack thereof

24


bullies BUT there is much we can
do to mitigate their access to our
children as well as the creation of these
individuals. I launched aBeanStalk, the
first Parent Intelligence Software tool
in the US to aid in this process. While
aBeanStalk is an extremely valuable
and useful tool, it is only the impetus
to a greater tool, Familial Nurturing &
Engagement.
Through my work in the area of
protecting our precious children, here
are some great steps that families can
implement to fight back against all
levels of bullying and attacks from
cyberpredators:

#1Commit to Family
Engagement

and thus should be on the front line of
this battle but it really is not merely a
parental “issue”. I grew up with the
understanding that it takes a village to
raise a child with positive responsible
character but our villages are equally in
peril as our adults are just as aggressive
and angry as our youth. If I have any
wisdom, bullying and cyber-predators
are by-products of a festering cancer
that is destroying the very fabric of our
culture and communities. Reclamation
of humanity, respect, dignity and honor,
should be the war we fight because
these character traits seem to be dying
within a society that reveres monetary
wealth, power, prestige and persona at
any cost.
I do not believe we will eradicate
the presence of child predators or

Families are busier than ever. The
lists of our responsibilities are long
yet we all receive the same 24 hours
in a day. Families have to “do” a lot
more to maintain a reasonably safe,
healthy and stable environment. Family
dynamics have also changed. More
households are led by single parents
than two-parent households. Support
family members (grandparents, aunts,
etc.) are usually employed outside of
the household and are not as available
as in times past to support the rearing
of our children. While I recognize
these facts, they are not proper reasons
for lack of engagement. Commit to
talking to your children at least 15-30
minutes each day about their school,
interests, events, etc. Talk to them in
person and give them your undivided
attention. Communicate on their level
but really get to know THEM as human
beings and not as your child in order
to understand the best communication
level. You do not have to be friends
to be friendly and to get to know your
children. This instills value and trust
plus once you are both comfortable,
you will be surprised at how open they
are to share. Try to eat at least one

meal each week together and attend one
family event (bowling, movies, boating,
etc.) at least twice each month. Studies
have shown that by using this method,
youth are 88% more likely to be more
successful in school, less likely to be
socially awkward or in trouble and will
have a positive, respectful & healthy
self-image which will in turn cause
them to have a positive & respectful
image of those around them.

#2 Boundaries

We have to teach healthy
boundaries, establish these in your
home and help your children set their
own boundaries (try to resist the urge to
set your child’s boundaries for them).
Let them come up with their own
boundaries, talk about them and respect
them. Some appropriate boundaries
can be to only allow your children to
visit homes in which you know the
parent and vice versa. Others can be
no digital devices after a certain time,
use of digital communication modems
during certain times of the day, and/or
no communication devices at the dinner
table or at family outings, etc.

#3 Golden Rule

We have to teach ourselves and our
children about empathy. Disrespectful
behaviors are a lack of value and
respect for others. These actions are
self-centered and self-absorbed and do
not make a person feel good or safe.
When my children were young, if they
were mean to one another, I would
give them a dose of their own medicine
and it hurt their feelings. Once I saw
the hurt, I would immediately remind
them of the Golden Rule – Treat others
the way you want to be treated. Even
though they are “kids”, they are
still human beings with feelings,
emotions, expectations and are
worthy of respect and honor.
Teaching them their value and the
value of others despite differences
creates empathy and this character
will make them less likely to engage
in bullying behavior or be easily
coerced or seduced by predators.

#4 Accountability

We live in a world where people
feel that they have the right to do
whatever pleases them without the
responsibility that these actions may
require. This same society wants
others to be completely accountable to
their actions regardless of the negative
impact. As we embrace accountability
we have to teach our children to do
the same. We must teach our children
that EVERY action has a consequence
and to be fully prepared to handle any
responsibility that their actions and
inactions may create. Require a Digital
Use Contract with your child and aid
them in the responsible and safe use
of digital communication. Subscribe
to a parent intelligence and/or digital
literacy service, such as aBeanStalk
or Common Sense Media, which will
provide additional tools and resources
to the responsible and safe use of
technology and social media. Parent
Intelligence tools give you direct
and real-time access to your child’s
activities within social networks and on
their smart devices. This will enable
you to reward responsible behavior
and address negative or potentially
dangerous activities before they get out
of hand.

#5 Get Involved

Make a direct impact by getting
involved in your child(ren)’s school, in
your neighborhood and by volunteering
with the clubs or activities in which
your child participates. Get involved
in The Bully Project so you can learn
more about Anti-Bullying efforts in
your community and how these efforts
can be replicated in your school. Join
a Child Advocacy program and a
neighborhood watch. Most of all,
commit at least 15-30 minutes of
undivided, uninterrupted involvement
with your child.
Bullies and Predators prey on
children with questionable self-image,
who feel isolated, alone and are easily
influenced and manipulated. Create
a safe environment within your home
and build trust within your household
with these simple steps. Your children
are really cool and with your love and
attention you will quickly discover
that fact. Studies show that children
who feel safe and maintain positive
trusting relationships in the home are
98% less likely to engage in risky
youthful behaviors. Terrorists usually
have been victimized in their past by
the same behaviors that they exhibit.
Eradication does not come simply by
punitive actions but by our villages
committing to healing, restoration,
love, nurturing and a great deal of
instruction without judgment.

For more information about STEPS
Lifestyle Company and the aBeanStalk
tool, contact abeanstalkco@gmail.com.
Kati Thomas is the Owner of STEPS
Lifestyle Company, the parent company
for STEPS Life Support, a life coach
and counseling service for families and
aBeanStalk Company, the first Parent
Intelligence Software connecting
parents to their child’s digital world.
She is the Director of Math Made
Simple, Etc. Academic Support Center
for both children and adults and the
newly appointed TN Regional Leader
for the BULLY Project, the makers of
the BULLY movie.

25

DIVINE MAGAZINE | SURVIVOR ISSUE 25

My story continues to help other kids tell their own.
When my dad passed away from cancer in 2002, I was sad, angry and confused. But like most kids
who lose a parent, I kept my feelings inside. Then a guidance counselor suggested Camp Good Grief
at Baptist Trinity. Gradually, they helped me realize my feelings were normal, and that talking about
them was all part of healing. At the time, I didn’t fully understand how it would help me later in life. But
today, as a volunteer buddy at the camp, I can see it ﬁrsthand. I now make sure that I live my life in a
way that honors my father.

Not only am I able to tell my story, but thanks to Camp Good Grief, I’m also helping
kids learn that even in the worst times, there’s always someone to share your burden.
— Jacinda Dunn

KEMMONS WILSON FAMILY
CENTER FOR GOOD GRIEF

baptistonline.org | 901-861-5656

Final divine survivordigital WyJoyful Company's SurvivorWOWs

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (14)

Similar to Final divine survivordigital WyJoyful Company's SurvivorWOWs

Similar to Final divine survivordigital WyJoyful Company's SurvivorWOWs (20)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (16)

Final divine survivordigital WyJoyful Company's SurvivorWOWs