Tag Archives: inspiration

Mar 10 2013

Don’t Quit (Pt. 2)

A week ago I wrote the first Don’t Quit post. Those very words had been playing over and over in my head. Usually when that happens, I have to do something with what I’m hearing or seeing or it will persist. So as I often do, I wrote about it. I wanted to hopefully inspire someone even though at the time I was feeling rather uninspired.

The month of January had taken me on an emotional roller coaster. I applied to countless jobs only to get one call back and an interview. A few days after that interview a dear friend of mine passed away unexpectedly. I began to doubt and second guess everything I was doing and even whether or not I should remain in Las Vegas, NV. I’ve gone through a lot in the 5 and a half years that I’ve been here.

After hiding under my covers for almost a week grieving, I was notified that I did not get the position. Which was probably best given my emotional state. The entire month of February, I assisted my dear friend’s 25 year-old daughter with going through the necessary process of gaining legal guardianship of her younger siblings. I also began planning my departure from Las Vegas.  Yes, I was prepared to throw in the towel and head back to California to be around my family.

The Queen Maker BoutiqueThe last week of February is when things began changing. I wrote the don’t quit post and immediately something shifted. I was contacted by two different individuals that were interested in purchasing “My Scars” tees in bulk. One being Domonique “Pastor D” Scott from TLC’s The Sisterhood and the other a friend in North Carolina. The simple words “Don’t Quit” took on a greater meaning in my life. I now had a reason to fight for everything that I’ve worked hard for in this past year.

And if that wasn’t enough, I received an email last week from the one job that I had interviewed with that had decided to go with another candidate. I was asked if I was still looking for a position. Of course my response was yes. We scheduled a time for me to go in to meet with them again. Well I am now the Creative Attaché for a National Business Development Company, delayed but not denied.

God knew that with everything that had transpired in January that I would not be able to take on a job at that time. But He also saw all my other needs and provided for each one of them, financially, physically and spiritually. You may not see a way out of your present situation. You may feel like every door and opportunity has been blocked but don’t quit. God is faithful and His timing is always perfect.

If you have been following my blog for a while, then you also know that my background is in Psychology. I did not go to school for Journalism, PR or anything relative to that field. I have just been using the gift(s) that God gave me. Last year, I was given a position with a local newspaper as a Staff Writer. Now, as a Creative Attaché, I will be utilizing those same gifts that I have worked hard to develop for the past few years to fulfill the job. And RN Brand Tees will be sold in 3 different States and will make their debut in the UK in two weeks!!! Your gifts will make room if you Don’t Quit!!!  Many of us quit just before the  point of a breakthrough but hold on and hold fast.

“I show my scars so that others know they can heal.”

Have you liked the Showing Our Scars Facebook Page? We are “Showing Our Scars”!

https://www.facebook.com/ShowingOurScarsMovement

You can also order your “My Scars” Tee!

www.rnbranddesign.bigcartel.com

Find out more about the story behind “My Scars”

Sunday Mourning

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Mar 1 2013

Don’t Quit

purposed

purposed (Photo credit: frances bell)

If you have been visiting my site and reading my post for a while, I am sure you are probably wondering what happened to all of the messages of inspiration and hope.  I have added quite a few new features which will remain, but the fact of the matter is, even the one who inspires needs to be inspired.  The other day, it was as if I could here the words “Don’t Quit” just as audible in my ears as if someone was speaking to me.

Have you ever felt like you were giving something your all and it wasn’t giving you anything in return?  These past few months have been some of the hardest.  However, each night before I go to sleep, I pray and thank God for keeping a roof over my head, clothes on my back and food to eat.  I wake up some mornings wanting to quit and something whispers and says, “Don’t Quit”.  And I am just crazy enough to keep listening.

You see, quitting is easy.  The obstacles, the disappointments and failed plans are always there waiting to get the best of you.  But determination tells you to push through all that, fight for that one yes and by all means “Don’t Quit”.  Those obstacles are there to teach you and the failed plans are for your protection.

If I had gotten everything that I wanted or if everything had gone my way, I wouldn’t be living out the purpose for my life.  Purpose is the reason I can’t quit.  It keeps me up at night and wakes me up in the morning.  It is the reason why I live and breath.  I am fulfilled merely by living out my life’s purpose.

So here is what I want you to do.  I want you to start March off with a clean slate.  February is behind you and you can’t go back.  It’s a new month, which should bring new goals, new plans and new opportunities that will help push you one step closer.  I am determined to see this vision through and fulfill my purpose and you should be too.  Don’t quit!

“I show my scars so that others know they can heal.”

Have you liked the Showing Our Scars Facebook Page? We are “Showing Our Scars”!

https://www.facebook.com/ShowingOurScarsMovement

You can also order your “My Scars” Tee!

www.rnbranddesign.bigcartel.com

Find out more about the story behind “My Scars”

Sunday Mourning

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Dec 30 2012

2012 In Review: Whatever You Do, Don’t Stop Writing

English: An aerial view of Mount Everest.

English: An aerial view of Mount Everest. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

2012 has been a good year.  I challenged myself in my writing in more ways then one.  New features were added and as a result my audience grew.  I thank each one of you for reading, commenting and sharing my written thoughts.  In 2013, I can only hope to bring you so much more.  So get ready for more author interviews, celebrity features minus the drama, the newest Wellness Wednesdays addition and RN Series will continue to provide blogging and branding tips.   Take a peek at some of the popular post for 2012 and if you haven’t already read them, I suggest you get caught up.  What are some of your writing plans and goals for the New Year? Leave a comment and  I’ll see you in the New Year!!!

“Whatever you do, don’t stop writing.” ~ Rhachelle Nicol’

Here’s an excerpt:

600 people reached the top of Mt. Everest in 2012. This blog got about 5,200 views in 2012. If every person who reached the top of Mt. Everest viewed this blog, it would have taken 9 years to get that many views.

Click here to see the complete report.

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Dec 4 2012

Author Interview: The Blood Done Signed My Name

The Blood Done Signed My Name

The Blood Done Signed My Name

The Blood Done Signed My Name: M. Ann RICKS

  • What genre would you say your books fall into? My novels are Christian Fiction.
  • Who or what inspires your writing? I am inspired by God as a result of my Savior Jesus Christ! The Holy Spirit gives me the premise for my stories and downloads the sentiment and the words so that I may do what we as followers of Jesus were anointed to do: Share the gospel of Jesus Christ. By doing this through the words He gives me, He will heal the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to those who are in bondage, give sight to the blind, free those who are oppressed and proclaim Jesus Christ is Lord.
  • How did your upbringing impact your beliefs and relationship with God? My upbringing was, church, school and home-life. Most of my activities, aside for participating in school activities, (plays and performances) were church related. I am very fortunate that I have the best parents a girl could have! My parents kept me in church and that is where I thrived and as a result, I am forever grateful to them! My relationship with God however became stronger in my adult life.
  • Was there ever a period in your life that you went against or strayed away from what you had been taught? I think we have all backslidden, (myself included) and that’s why I love my Savior so much! He is always willing to welcome you back into the family with open arms! Reminding us to “go and sin no more!” His word tells us that we shouldn’t sin but…“And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 2:1 His word also tells us, “ If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” 1 John 1:9
  • If so, what led you back to Christ? His LOVE, The truth of His Word! ….Not what man said but what He said! He allowed me to confront why I had not immersed myself in Him and what I need to do to be free… I mean really free! Glory to God!
  • Who is your favorite character in The Blood Done Signed My Name? I haven’t a favorite character but if I simply love the way God used me to write Ms. Sadie! She has the quiet strength and firm but patient love that I find necessary in today’s world to help those who have lost their way.
  • Describe the process you go through for developing your characters. Crazily enough, I haven’t a special process. All three of my novel’s premises were given to me during my quiet time with God. Rhachelle, I want to be used by Him and because I make that my priority, I become open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. As I am writing, He will give me names as I use the gift of writing to share their story. He allows me to simply write. He instructs me throughout the process, downloading what He knows someone will need to read to experience His love and as a result they are blessed! I am truly being used as a vessel for His handiwork!
  • What message do you hope to convey to your readers through you’re THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME? The message that I would love for all to receive from THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME is that regardless of who you are, what your family lineage looks like, whatever you’ve done, whatever has been done to you, the blood of Jesus can make you a new creature because of its power. God loves us so much and because He loves us, He sacrificed His only son Jesus. Jesus became the sacrifice for us and all that we have done and are going to do. We have been absolved and even justified. We can walk in freedom and liberty because of what Jesus did. A new life is available for those who believe!
  • As a full-time writer was there ever a time that your faith was tested? How did you refocus and keep moving forward? There were struggles along the way…. Yes indeed! There were delays, rewrites, rejections and faith fights! At times I was my worst enemy! There were many days I was so discouraged, I wanted to simply give up. I’m so thankful Rhachelle, that God is faithful even we forget what He’s promised. “God is not a man, that He should lie, ….Has He said, and will He not do? … has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” Numbers 23:19
  • Do you have any upcoming projects? It is my hope to assist other Christian writers with my literary workshop for aspiring Christian writers called, “Conversations…. Writing to Reconcile”. I had the wonderful opportunity to share it regionally but would love to be afforded a venue that could allow me to do so nationally. As believers in Christ it is our mandate to reconcile others to God. Using our literary gifts is certainly one way we can accomplish that awesome task. Additionally, for all who are interested, I distribute electronically, (on-line), a monthly newsletter, M. Ann’s Literary Communiqué and prayerfully it will continue to increase in circulation. Lastly, I’ve begun my 4th novel, The SHIFT!
  • Any final words for the readers? I so appreciate the readers taking the time to read this interview! I feel incredibly BLESSED!
    M. Ann Ricks

    M. Ann Ricks

    Thanks to you all! I invite the readers to visit my website and www.mannricks.net to simply read more about me! If interested they may find my novels on all online literary establishments. (i.e.: www.amazon.com / www.bn.com). For speaking engagement, Literary Dialogues and book club gatherings, please feel free to contact me directly using: Godsauthor@mannricks.net. I have an Author’s Page on Facebook: M. Ricks Literary Creations.

Rhachelle, thanks so much for this wonderful interview! Continued blessings to you! Let God continue to be GLORIFIED!

Dec 3 2012

3 Things You Must Have in 2013

Vision_Board_Sept_2010_inprogress

Vision_Board_Sept_2010_inprogress (Photo credit: WiseWellWoman)

If I was to lose all of my material possessions today, there would be 3 things that I would try my best to hold on to.  2011 and 2012 have taught me the importance of having a vision, plan or goal, and a journal to write it all down.

Vision:  A vision forces you to be in tune with who you are and what you were created to be.  A vision puts the focus on the outcome and not the current circumstances.  It allows you to push through the most difficult times, knowing that it won’t be like this always.  A vision keeps you up late at night and gives life to your purpose.

Plan or Goal:  Your plan or goal(s) become the very blueprint to navigating through your vision.   While the vision keeps you focused on the end result, your plans and goals tell you that there is still some work to be done.  You begin to see what you can do and what you may need assistance with completing.  Your weaknesses and strengths may be revealed but instead of being discouraged you may just add a new goal to the list.

Journal:  “And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and engrave it so plainly upon tablets that everyone who passes may [be able to ] read [it easily and quickly] as he hastens by.” Habakkuk 2:2  Yes, you need something to write all down in.  When you begin to write things down, rewrite them and further explain them it makes it easier for people to understand and even assist with bringing the vision to past.  You have to understand, know and believe in whatever it is that you are working towards.  In 2011, I wrote that I wanted to create my own t-shirt line.  I didn’t know how I was going to do it and how soon it would all take place but the more I wrote about it, the more things were revealed.  I’ve been spending the last few weeks reflecting on journal entries.  Some of the things taking place in my life right now, were a mere journal entry a year ago.

I promise you, if you can hold onto these three things you will begin to see things happen.  On Dec. 8th, Mission Possible, a vision board event that I wrote in my journal a year ago will finally take place.  Daja Robinson of No Boiz Allowed and I are excited and grateful for all those who have helped to make this possible.  FireHouse Subs for providing lunch for our guest.  Zari Banks for her countless donations to Mother 2 Mother down throughout the year, Kanina Johnson for gifting a copy of her book, Walk In Your Power and many more.  If you are in the Las Vegas area, join us.  You do not want to miss this event!

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Sep 24 2012

I Have A Confession

Cancer (Confession album)

Cancer (Confession album) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever just done something because it felt right? Then the more and more you continue to do it you realize that you can’t imagine yourself not doing it. Well, that’s exactly how I feel about blogging and writing. Initially, my goal was just to write and be consistent. I wanted to reflect and rediscover a hidden passion but the more I did just that, I realized I wanted more.

I want more, matter of fact, I have always wanted more. I guess you can say I am my greatest competition or worst critic. As a blogger, I felt like I was playing it safe. I was free to come and go as I pleased. I even rambled at times when I didn’t know what to say. But at some point, something changed. Actually, everything changed. My goals are not just to write and be consistent anymore. I want to be a leader in what I do, influential and have an impact. I want to create a platform to support others in their ministry. I am clear about what I want and I am confident that God will continue to lead me as I follow.

Writing has been instrumental in my process. Through writing, I found my healing, released my hurts and those things which once caused me shame. I can’t thank God enough for the vision He has given me and the confidence to see it through; I must be obedient. “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” Philippians 1:6 I’m no longer fighting but submitting to what God would have me to do. “I show my scars so that others know they can heal” and writing has alllowed me to do just that.

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Le'Andria Johnson
Aug 1 2012

Le’Andria Johnson: Sooner or Later

Over the past few months, I have read and heard various comments made about the Sunday Best Season 3 Grammy Award winner, Le’Andria Johnson.  A lot of the comments being made were very judgemental and hurtful.  I can only imagine what her thoughts may be as she reads them.  Many of you have made statements alluding to her sitting down while she is pregnant and some have just been downright vulgar.

When I first heard about the artist expecting a child out of wedlock, just like most of you, I was a little disappointed.  But I then had to take a look back over my own life.  You see at one point I stood in the same shoes as Le’Andria.  No, my platform was no where close to hers but I was serving the Lord the best way I knew how and ministering through writing.  I had started a Christian Newsletter in my hometown and I knew that was what God wanted me to do.  After 6 months of publishing the monthly newsletter, I became pregnant.  I was overtaken by the guilt and shame of it all.  I didn’t have to be sat down, I ran.   You see it was easier for me to run from God and hide my face than to ask for forgiveness and continue to move forward with the plans that God had for my life.  Just like Adam and Eve did in the Garden of Eden, it is easier to run and hide than it is to stand.  I ran from the very protection and covering that I had in my life.

Le’Andria could have very well ran and even sat down as some of you suggested, but that’s easy.  But standing tall and admitting one’s faults before man is what is hard.  Her ministry is still touching lives and God is still getting all of the glory through her life.  We have to be careful of the judgement that we put off on people.  We do not know the relationship that she has with the Lord.  The enemy will use the very aspect of your life that causes you to live in shame and fear to keep you from fulfilling the purpose that God has for your life.  But we also know that perfect love cast out all fear.  So when she says, “I am still here” it is not out of arrogance but she is telling the enemy what you tried to destroy me with in the past, won’t work.  I am so thankful that we serve a God of a second chance.  The very ministry that I ran from is the very ministry that He is blessing me in today.  It’s been a little over two years since I decided to start writing again and God has opened so many doors.  Just recently I was featured in the newspaper and then I was asked to become a writer for the paper.

Le’Andria I commend you and I continue to pray for you.  Thank you for continuing to stand because sooner or later God is going to turn it all around.

“Building relationships of accountability and trust with all roads leading to love.” ~RATL

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Jun 14 2012

What’s Next?!?

How to Be Indie

How to Be Indie (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I love stretching myself, starting new projects, expanding the vision that God has given me and networking. At the start of the year, you witnessed some new additions to my site, via the RN Series and Author Interviews. Your feedback lets me know that the work it took to bring it all together and make it possible was worth it. Well, I am not done stretching myself and yes the vision continues to grow. So what’s next? Oh yeah. Starting in July, rhachellenicol.com will begin coordinating and hosting blog tours for Christian Indie Authors of fiction and nonfiction work. This will give authors the opportunity to get their work out in front of a wider audience and share their message, through guest post and interviews.

As an Indie Author myself, I know the amount of work and time that goes into writing, publishing and marketing and it is my desire to assist you on the journey. I’ve taken my book from paperback, to ebook and lastly t-shirts. There are so many ways to build and share your message. Details will be coming soon as to the packages we will be offering, as well as the opportunity to work with my graphic designer, t-shirt company and more. Those dreams have sat on the shelf long enough, it is time to dust them off and began planting some seeds. We want to be there to help water and watch them grow.

What has kept you from moving forward? We want to know.

“Whatever you do, don’t stop writing.” Rhachelle Nicol’

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May 10 2012

If Only…

Hong Kong Orange

If there was one thing you could do and was certain that you wouldn’t fail, would you do it?  If opportunity knocked on your door would you be prepared to answer?  How many times have you had that “aha moment” and didn’t take the time to write it down?  Only to find out years later that someone had acted on their gut instinct and that “aha” became someone else’s reality.

If only I had the time, support and money almost makes for a compelling reason to give up but it’s just not enough.  Opportunity is around us constantly but anything worth having is going to take some time and commitment.  You may have to find 100 different ways to do the same thing, in order to get the attention and recognition needed but do what ever it takes until you get the results you desire.

The worst thing ever would be to give up right before breaking through.  I am determined and as long as I am able, I am going on.  Now is not quitting time, if only I can help you see.  Be encouraged!

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Mar 16 2012

Why I Can…Why We Will…

Many times we focus on all the reasons why we can’t do something.  “I’m behind on the bills.” Or a very common reason, “I don’t have the time”.  These limiting thoughts will do just that, limit you.  They will keep you behind on your bills and out of time, pushing your dreams further and further away.  I made every excuse in the book to self sabotage all my dreams and aspirations.  The truth was, I was afraid.  But today, I celebrate a dream that has been a long time coming.  My goal is not to make it look easy, but reassure you that it is possible.

The other day as I was sitting at my desk, preparing for this day and launch, a scripture hit me.   “And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.  And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.  Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:17-20  That promise alone makes any situation or circumstance seem so small.

I thank God that he placed people in my life along this journey to encourage me, motivate me and keep me inspired.  I also thank God for my 5 little cheerleaders.  My children have been my greatest motivation, they deserve the world and I am going to do my best to give it to them.  There have been so many reasons for me to give up, but I thank God for giving me just one to hold on.

RN Brand & Design is more than just the Tees that have been designed, but a vision that allows me to extend my reach, share my message and help others do the same.  “I can, I will, I am…We, can, We will, We are…with God all things are possible”.  So this is what I want you to do next:

1.  Write those dreams down; an unwritten vision is still a dream until you take a pen to a paper.

2.  Even if it’s just one word, write it down, meditate on it and revisit it as often as you must until you receive clarity.

3.  Then by all means, act on it.  Do whatever you can and believe that your help is on the way.

I know it may sound easy, but you and I both know it takes work.  That is why RN Brand & Design wants to be there each step of the way.  An RN by profession, is usually the first one you see when you are sick and the last one to send you on your way to recovery.  I don’t know about you, but I’ve lost a lot and I am on the road to recovery, believing God for double for my trouble.

In a week, RN Brand & Design Store will launch and you all will be receiving a special invite.  If you have subscribed to my blog or previously purchased an item, you are already on our VIP list.  And if you haven’t subscribed or haven’t decided on a tee, what are you waiting on?!?  “My Scars” has been our topseller, someone needs to see your scars.  Get your’s today! God Bless.

We have work to do…let’s go!!!