Believe

Recently, I watched the movie, The Wiz, with Michael Jackson, Diana Ross and many other entertainment giants. This is a movie I've seen countless times throughout my life. This is also the first time I really took its message to heart.

It told what I consider truth about already having what you need inside. The lion had his courage, as the others already had what they thought they did not. The mind is powerful. Train it to know you are wonderful. I say to you, as Diana sang so beautifully, believe in yourself as I believe in you.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Carefully Measure Your Success
God is in Control
Reach for Him

Health & Beauty I

Many of us are concerned about our health and/or beauty.  If it isn't a medical issue that makes you pay attention, it can be an upkeep with vanity.  We all want the same things in life pretty much.  We want to be happy, healthy and look good doing it!  Yes, the list should be much longer, but then this would be a completely different post. 


I want to help others stay on top of being healthy and attractive.  There are three areas you need to focus on to do it.  You must exercise, eat right and deal with fashion or your image.

I have decided to step up my health.  This time, I am doing it by concentrating on my food intake.  Below is an example of how I will be eating...for the most part, just in case you wanted to know.  I'll discuss the other two areas in another post at another time.

Days Menu

Breakfast - Oatmeal
Snack - Health Bar and/or yogurt
Lunch - Salad (my salad will vary to keep it interesting)
Snack - Nuts, Raisins or a mixture of the two
Dinner - Baked food (Chicken or Fish), salad and brown rice


*Posts you may enjoy are A Small Step Towards A Healthy Heart, Vegan? and Let Nothing Stand in Your Way.

Greatness

Some people believe that greatness is to be acquired. To them, it can be like shopping for desired items in a mall. 

I view it differently. I feel that people are great. We all have it. It isn't anything to look for because you already possess it. You simply have to claim it, then act appropriately. Make sure you do both steps because they're important. When you claim it and thank God for the greatness He instilled, your blessings will shine through. So, try it...repeatedly because you cannot purchase greatness.

Unfortunately, there is nowhere to pick it up, but you can access it. It's inside of you. God doesn't make a mess. His people are awesome. He doesn't even make people to live an okay life. Our Lord is effortlessly grand in creation. Focus on seeing the true you and remain blessed.


*Posts you may enjoy:

I'm Blessed
Reach For Him
God is in Control

I'm Back!

I apologize for not showing up these past couple of days.  I have been experiencing a wide variety of issues.  They included, but were not limited to technology.  I will continue to do my very best at being consistent in supplying you with posts for Alice Benton's Blog. 

Thank you, for remaining with me and being supportive.  I, as always, appreciate you.  God bless!

Looks Can Be Deceiving

We have all heard this saying, looks can be deceiving.  We even know it to true, yet, as adults we gravitate towards the "beautiful." Some people do function on that what you see is what you get policy, but many do not.  We have to learn to get to know each other before committing to a pretty face.  Remember, we teach our children not to go to someone just because they seem nice.

I'm not saying avoid the lookers at all cost.  I'm simply stating open up to other possibilities.  Let your heart do the listening for you. The one that makes your heart sing might not fit the predetermined Halle/Denzel requirement.

True love can be remarkable and is worth so much more than fleeting beauty. Don't look for the person that looks best with you. Look for the one that makes you smile without trying because happiness is underrated.


*Posts you may enjoy are Distractions, Don't Fake It, God is in Control and Listening to your Spirit.

Reasons to Love Beauty in Pain

                                                                                                    

Yesterday's read, Michael Vey, inspired today's post, Reasons to Love Beauty in Pain. I decided to let you know some reasons I love my newly published novel.

Reasons to Love Beauty in Pain                                                       
1.  It is a story that everyone can relate to regardless of experience.
2.  It is a unique story.
3.  In its own way, it shows perception is everything. If you are willing to change your mind, you can change your life for the better.
4.  It is filled with life lessons.
5.  It identifies some characteristics of grief.
6.  It will enhance your life.
7.  It is supernaturally intriguing.
8.  It shows that anyone can overcome their personal struggles no matter what they are going through in life.
9.  It is both interesting and entertaining
10.It is an inspiring tale.



Theses are just a few reasons why you should love it too. Enjoy!

                                                                
*Posts you may enjoy:

Beauty in Pain - Available Now
Beauty in Pain Excerpt
Michael Vey

Beauty in Pain - iUniverse

Beauty in Pain - iUniverse

Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25

I found a phenomenal young adult thriller.  It's called Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25.  It is the first installment to a seven part series written by #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Richard Paul Evans.  I was fortunate enough to have been allowed to read Michael Vey before its upcoming release date, which is August 9, 2011.
Michael Vey is currently available for presale and I suggest purchasing it.  This is a book that children and adults can be excited about reading.  Below are a list things I like about Michael Vey.

1. There are many educational facts found within its pages.
2. In its own way it shows regular children can make a difference.
3. Offers some insight into a child's world.
4. It shows how a new attitude can mean new friends.
5. The story has life lessons in it.
6. The written word is so vividly descriptive that it is easy to picture.
7. It's wildly entertaining for both children and adults.

I do offer a warning...you will get hooked and have to patiently wait for the next book.  Happy reading everyone!


*Posts you may enjoy are Beauty in Pain - Available Now, Positivity and The Black Love Book Discussion.

Beauty in Pain - Available Now

The hardcover is available!  We waited a long time, but now Beauty in Pain can be purchased online.  This is my second book, Black Love being the first, and I'm very excited about it.  I looking forward to experiencing it with you, as well as hearing your comments.

The following is how the back cover reads...

Valerie Peterson is in the middle of a nap on the living room couch when she hears her ten-year-old daughter say, “Mommy, mommy . . . you need to get  up.” Later, Valerie learns that her sister, June, is clinging to life inside a hospital room—the victim of a car accident involving a drunk driver. It is Saturday, April 22, 2006, and Valerie’s life has been forever changed by tragedy.

As June lies helplessly in bed, the Peterson family believes they are all in agreement as to what is best for June. Unfortunately, they are not. Soon all the family members are victims themselves of the never-ending turmoil that surrounds life and death decisions. Comforted by her memories and overcome with trepidation, Valerie begins a tumultuous journey through the worst days of her life—a journey that culminates four days later with the horrifying news that June is dead. Now she must rely on her faith and inner strength to lead her through the darkness of grief to the light of healing and forgiveness.

Based on true events, Beauty in Pain is the compelling and inspiring tale of one woman’s personal fight to survive in the aftermath of loss.

*Posts you may enjoy are Beauty in Pain Excerpt, Beauty in Pain on Facebook and Male Characters From Women Writers and The Black Love Book Discussion. 

Loved One Gone

The memory of a loved one gone stays in our mind.  Especially as birthdays or their death date passes.  Having lost my precious sister so many years ago, I am tempted, at times, to hate a world that she no longer shares with me, but I refuse.  I will not associate ill thoughts with sweet Jennifer because it disrespects her memory.

Instead, I choose to focus on her life.  I was blessed enough to share 33 years with Jennifer.  Sure, I would have liked much more, but the time we had was absolutely beautiful.  She was a wonderful sister and my life was...is better having known her.  One of the ways I honor our relationship is by remembering all the good she added to my being, as well as others.

Jennifer will never be forgotten.  I have learned, as many have, that love doesn't end with death.  I don't say I loved her...I love her still and I'm certain she loves me too.  With that being said, Happy heavenly birthday, sister...God bless.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Evening Thoughts
God is in Control
Honoring Your Children
Reach For Him

Idle Children

Suddenly, children of all ages are everywhere.  It's time to actively occupy their time.  If you haven't already found a summer camp or solution, it's long over due.  Idle children have been known to get into trouble, which of course you don't want.

Now that the school year has come to an end, parents are looking for activities for their children.  There are many programs available, but price versus distance can rule some things out.  What do you when your options are limited?  The answer will be different for every mom and/or dad.

New York City offers a directory for summer programs.  You can find countless programs by typing in summer programs online, but you should stick with trusted organizations when dealing with your kids.  Also, the Beacon Program is a free program that deals with various topics including academics, sports, etc.


*Posts you may enjoy are Cheerleading & Margaret Scott-Adams, Evening Thoughts and Priorities.

Extended Family

Today, was great.  While it is father's day, it is also a day about family.  We like many had a barbecue in honor of dad. There was a point when I looked around at everyone and noticed our extended family.  It was beautiful. Family is wonderful, and the additions to it can also be a blessing.

Family is no longer a straight forward concept.  The face of it has changed just as much as the world.  I have been blessed enough to meet friends that are now truly part of my family. Some families are a blood bond, but others are made.


Evening Thoughts, Family and Honoring Your Children.

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day! Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very happy Father's Day! God bless all of the fathers, grandpas and so on, which includes moms that have to play both roles.  May God bless and keep you all, as well as your child or children.

Enjoy!

Mental Space

You've heard experts say your living space is important.  Well, they're right.  Take it a step further, consider that your space is more intimate than you realize. Oh, about the size of your brain.

Mental space is more pertinent to life than any other physical location you may be inside.  That's why many people will take those much needed mental health vacations.  They should actually be a requirement because before you step out of any bed you are mentally aware.

Learn to exercise your brain.  Take a moment to focus your thoughts. Examine your mental requirements so your brain can stay fit.  Set a side five minutes a day to be still.  Pick up a book or write down your thoughts.  Quiet your world and listen for God.

If you are mentally right everything else goes better.  Mental stability equals a better life.  It also represents freedom.  It's like reading a book, except you're the author.  Regardless of where your body is your mind can soar.


*Posts you may enjoy are Important Decisions, Priorities and Slow Down.

Labels

Society is filled with labels.  We all have them.  We as people like, love, hate and embrace them.  Our labels quickly identify things about us and our lives.

For the most part, labels are fine when applied truthfully by each person.  Being branded by others isn't always cool.  When people tag you they are often attempt to force their label on you regardless of truth.

Sometimes, labeling can cause a communication gap.  Be mindful and try not to get caught up on them.  From time-to-time strip away all labels to clarify who someone is.  In the end, we are all just people and children of God.


*Posts you may enjoy are Communication, Help Our World, Reach for Him and Surprise!

Reach for Him

Last year sometime, I set of on a journey. I realized in the cab to the airport that I left my Bible home. That made me unhappy. I always travel with my Bible. In fact, that particular Bible had not left my side since my sister passed away.

At the time, it felt like too much, so I gave my burden to the Lord. I immediately asked God in a silent prayer to assist me with my prayers, as my bible would. Instantly, the cab driver began to sing a song in praise of God. Afterwards, he apologized for the outburst saying, God's love overwhelmed him. It was one of the most pleasant taxi rides I had ever had. At the airport, I exited the taxicab thinking, I wish the driver was going to be on this plane.


As the aircraft took off into the air, the passenger next to me asked if we could talk because planes made him nervous. He spoke of things he learned in bible study recently. This man covered lessons in the Bible with such eloquence and grace. It was like a wonderful, personalized amplified version made for me.

I could go on-and-on about that glorious day, but the point I'm trying to make is simple. God will meet you wherever you are. Reach for Him. If you have issues, big or small, give them to the Father and remember all is already well.


*Posts you may enjoy:

A Prayer for my Readers
God is in Control
Regrets
Revelations

Juneteenth

Juneteenth is an important day. Many people have not heard of or acknowledged it, yet it is still momentous.  According to juneteenthohio.net, it is the day -- June 19, 1865 -- that the last group of slaves were freed.  Approximately, 800,000 slaves were not affected by the Emancipation Proclamation.  It took much more to officially set all slaves free, including civil war and the 13th Amendment.

Juneteenth.com encourages everyone to celebrate the day.  It is not only an African American freedom holiday, it is also American History.  It is a day to remember because lives were enhanced.  The entire country, as well as the world improved June 19th, so long ago.

May it encourage us all to be better than we are.


*Posts you may enjoy are Natural Black Hair, Priorities and Village Natural.

Happy Flag Day

Flag day has come and almost gone, but it was blast.  There was no shortage of love for old glory in my house, as some would say. There is always an extra sense of respect and admiration demonstrated not only for the flag, but also for the family patriarch; he's a veteran. While we did not hang out a flag, our home came alive in the spirit of red, white and blue.  There were functions here and there, but we celebrated as a family.

I hope you enjoyed this day.  For Flag Day Fun Facts please view Chiff.com.  May we always appreciate this part of history.  God bless you all and enjoy!


*Posts you may enjoy are Count Down to Summer, Summer Hair and Surprise!

Surprise!

I'm not a firm believer in coincidence. In my life, there are no accidents, just things I didn't know were supposed to happen. Regardless, there have been a pleasant surprise or two. A true surprise is a gift that you never knew you wanted. It somehow has the most perfect fit and is yours unmistakably. You would never buy it for yourself, but once you receive it you cannot picture yourself without it.

We all have things that complete our existence. They let us know that we were not really living life to its fullest. These presents make us more of who we are and enhance our lives. We often reject this type of thing before it is allowed to fully enter our realm, but when it does it's amazing. There are moments when resistance is truly futile.

When there is a reoccurring happenstance in your life, examine it. Face it straight on and keep an open mind. It might keep coming around the bend because it was meant for you and your happiness. Open up your heart to receiving goodness. Remember, God knows what you need before you do.


*Posts you may enjoy:

God's Gift
Gift's From God
Slow Down

Natural Black Hair

Natural Black Hair is special and beautiful, yet tricky in maintenance. If you do not know what you're doing its care can be a mess. Lately, newer trends dictate that even an unorganized afro can be amazing and I agree.  I adore our various versions of locks.  

I'm loving both newer and old trends for black hair.  I like that women have so many choices today.  I know many beautiful woman that wear everything from locks to braids to weaves and twists.  Beauty is being redefined!

Truthfully, our hair was always beautiful, but the recognition is nice too.


*Posts you may enjoy are Choices, Summer Hair and What Makes You Feel Attractive?

Summer Hair

The onset of heat due to the fast approaching summertime has many of us thinking about hair.  There are people who rock the same due all year around, while others do not. Summer has been known inspire a haircut or two.  It also sends many rushing to get braids or a weave.

The reason for change varies.  One person does it because the heat is too much.  Another decides the summer wardrobe deserves new tresses.  Others are forced because of the summer rituals brought on by the season.

Regardless of your personal reasoning, I'd like to know what summer hair adorns your head.  Typically, I wear cornrows during the hot months because of constant beach or pool activities. How about you? Let me know what you prefer.


*Posts you may enjoy are Count Down To Summer, Fashion Trends Dos & Don'ts and It's All About Accessories.

Count Down To Summer

The first full day of summer is June, 21st, and it is fast approaching. That's why there is no time to waste in making your summer plans. Use the days ahead determining what you want the season to bring. Careers, vacations and plain old fun need planning too.

Careers are a personal decision.  Vacations depend of where you want to go and money.  Fun is a little different.  There are things you can do that cost, but there are also freebies.  There are outdoor movies, as well as Shakespeare in the Park.  Some good resources with affordable suggestions include Time Out Magazine, nycgo.com, and websites like Kaboose.

Count down to summer wisely!


*Posts you may enjoy are Let Nothing Stand In Your Way, What Makes You Feel Attractive and What's On Your Agenda?

Priorities

There are things and people that rank first in our lives.  Everyone has priorities, although, they vary from person to person.  Ask yourself, are your priorities showing.

Why do your priorities need to show?  Well, the truth is they don't, but sometimes it is in your best interest that they shine.  For example, at work you may need your boss to know you've prioritized certain tasks.  Or, if your children are most important to you, you want them to know.

Often, we think our actions are obvious when they are not.  Feelings aren't always easy to see.  I believe it was Alice Walker that posed the following question.  Does your face light up when your child enters the room?  When it comes to loved ones do your best to show them they mean the world.


*Posts may enjoy are Communication, Carefully Measure Your Success and What's On Your Agenda?

Timing Is Everything

The fabric of time is delicate. That is probably why the thought of messing with it has no appeal. I appreciate things that are wonderfully progressive like wine and life. I have never been one of those adults that got off on complaining about responsibilities. I figured, it's simply a part of the package.

It feels like just yesterday when I was at my own prom. It was fantastic! Tonight, I have the privilege of acting as a chaperon for a high school prom. I cannot wait to see the youngins having fun and I'll have a little too. I did this last year and I still remember the thought I was left with, which was high school was great, but I love my grown and sexy.

Love exactly where you are and continue to make it better!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Lovin the Skin You're In
Loving Life
This I Know About Life

Break Up Don'ts

Break ups are sometimes necessary, but they do not have to become heated.  Here are the ten ways to avoid a bad break up situation.

1.  Do not break up via text, email, Facebook or Twitter
2.  Do not break up over the phone if the relationship lasted more than three weeks
3.  Do not use cliche's like it's not you it's me...
4.  Do not say you need a break when you know you need to break up
5.  Do not say it in a dear john letter
6.  Do not try and trick your mate into doing it for you
7.  Do not break up through gossip because you had to tell others first
8.  Do not say you're moving in different directions knowing the other would follow you
9.  Do not blame it on the a a a a a alcohol baby
10.Never ever do it on a holiday which includes birthdays

If you somehow manage to actually break up successfully, do not under any circumstance spend immediate time with your ex.  Do not sit with, call or act like nothing happened.


*Posts you may enjoy are Avoid Bad Situations, Carefully Measure Your Success and Social Network Crushes.

National Puerto Rican Day Parade NYC 2011

Every year the National Puerto Rican Day Parade is held and this year is no exception.  The 2011 parade is dedicated to the hometowns of Cabo Rojo and Patillas in celebration of their century-old foundations, according to the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc.

This year the Puerto Rican Day Parade will be held on Sunday, June 12, 2011.  It will start at 11 AM at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street and will end at Fifth and 86th.  The anticipation is building.  Chiff.com also has information  available for the millions that look forward to this event every year.


*Posts you may enjoy are Gifts From God, It's Not Just Wii and Loving Life.

Happy Birthday Isaiah!

Happy Birthday Isaiah J! Alice Benton's Blog and grandma wish you well.  God bless you!  You're the best grandson in the world!

Communication

Communication is a wonderful thing. It fits into every facet of life and literally helps to make the world go round. There are many forms of communication, but the type doesn't really matter. What matters is the message we send and that it is received.

The communication process continues to go on in various ways. There should be clarity in our thoughts and words, regardless of whether it's through an email, text, etc... If your message is important take the time to make sure you're being heard.

Often, the simplest things in life possess some of the most important lessons. It is the same for communication. Learning to communicate effectively can change your life, as well as someone else's.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Change Can Be Good
Learning Disabilities
Listening
Slow Down

Learning Disabilities

Most people have some type of learning disability.  Everyone needs a little help sometime.  Everyday people have learning impairments. We all have lessons to work out.

When you find out about an issue you have, thank God.  Now that you know about it you can address it and make things better.  A weakness that has been acknowledged can become a strength.  So don't quickly render negative judgement on yourself.  For instance, if your issue is memory, learn to take excellent notes or use a recorder. Just don't give up!

Know that it is possible to work around any learning problem you possess. Think about how to fix it and stay positive because the problem isn't you.  It isn't even the disability.  In fact, the problem doesn't even exist, it is actually a challenge for you to rise towards.

The following is a model for life.  Acknowledge Issue+Thank God +Stay Positive+Work Around=Success.


*Posts you may enjoy are God is in Control, Positivity and Renewing Yourself.

Gifts From God

We all have gifts from God.  These gifts are fairly easy to spot because we have always had them.  Each of us has this unique recognizable treasure that we work miraculously without real effort. How well we use it is up to the individual.

They say, use it or lose it...but you can also abuse it. It's like Luke's force in the movie Star Wars.  Luke possessed a powerful force of energy.  That was his gift, but whether it was good or bad was to be determined.

Be mindful of your God given presents.  They are stronger than you know and can be misused.  Acknowledge that a gift from God is a very serious and precious thing.  Be careful not to abuse it.

Find ways to strengthen that which has been placed deep inside your being.  Bless the world.  Be a blessing. You represent love when you spread your piece of God to His children.


*Posts you may enjoy are Carefully Measure Your Success, God's Gift and Let Nothing Stand in Your Way.

Marry the Person

Your spirits are high!  You've received the proposal of a lifetime and it's time to plan the wedding.  Don't make the same mistake others have made.  Plan for the marriage more than one glorious day.  We all love a good wedding, but the truth is that a lifetime of wedded bliss is way more important.

You need to know where you stand, as well as the ideas you and your fiancé have regarding spouses.  Many men and women possess a cookie cutter version of what it means to be a wife or husband specifically.  This image needs to be discussed because it existed long before the two of you met.  Find out if these views match and if they're realistic.  Ask your mate if you fit their mental picture of wife or husband.

This is the time to have thorough talks and question everything. Religious institutions offer pre-marital counseling, but at the very least make a list of things to discuss.  Your conversations should include everything from the children you don't have and their religion to elder parents moving in out of possible necessity.  Be creative. People feel like they are getting married with unconditional love, while most actually have very real conditions.  You need to know them before the walk down the aisle or a trip to the divorce lawyer.


*Posts you may enjoy are Relationships, Prince William & Kate Middleton's Royal Weddings 4/29/11 and Weddings & Vera Wang.

Listening to your Spirit

I believe that there are things about your life that your spirit already knows.  You may consider them good or bad, but regardless, it may be information you can use.  It can assist with the perfect alignment of your destiny.

Listening to your spirit isn't necessarily the easiest thing to do.  The past is gone, you're in the here and now and if things weren't hard enough there is a spiritual future to obtain.  There are probably many ways to tap into this God given force, however, I thus far can only recall two.

1. Those little feelings of inspiration you get nudging you one way or the other.  They often do not make common sense in the moment. We frequently use logic to negative them.

2. Reviewing things that were on your mind or strangely in play throughout your day.  You can oftentimes look back on your day and identify hints of the right course to take.

Whenever I didn't listen to my inner feelings I would late find myself in an undesirable situation.  God gave us these instincts for a reason. Learn to pick up on positive signs that bless your life and use them.


*Posts you may enjoy are Choices, Important Decisions and Revelations.

Important Decisions

Life is filled with countless decisions we have to make.  There are so many that eventually it appears to become asinine.  Quite frankly, it seems there are too many getting in the way of life.  We want to react not decide, but that can be dangerous.  Believe it or not, when the decision is really important, deciding can be too.  Alright, you may want to sit down for this one.  Yes, we all have choices to make and we should deal with them.  After all, there outcome will determine some things in our lives.

I'll tell you what I have told my girls for years.  The truly big decisions that are life altering and spirit shaking should be left to God.  You are not qualified to make those type of decisions alone and yes, this includes when picking a life partner.  No one has the right expertise, except the Lord.  If you have issues, that are plaguing your daily existence, that is a God issue that has a faith result.  It must be turned over to Him.

If you are not the praying kind, it doesn't matter.  You can learn.  We all have to learn at some point.  Maybe today is your day.  You don't have to do it alone.  When you are looking for prayer it finds you...actively seek it.  You can pick a church, bible, religious denomination, prayerful friend, or even the internet.  The world wide web is a great resource when used for good.  You can also access a ministry on television or use your smart phone.  Now, there are applications that allow you to download the bible. I'm merely saying that it can be done if you're willing.

If you are a church goer, avid prayer sayer or believer, I'm talking to you too.  We are so comfortable that we sometime become complacent and forget what to do on occasion.  A loving reminder is always good.

God bless you all and leave your important decisions to God.


*Posts you may enjoy are A Prayer for my Readers, Choices, Count Your Blessings and Revelations.