Dare To Dream: RN Brand Debuts In The UK

Dare To DreamI don’t believe that things happen by coincidence or even by chance but when your dream is bigger than you, I do believe in divine connections. Last year, I connected with Antonina Griffin, Founder of S.C.A.R. Foundation. I was promoting the “My Scars” tee like I always do and around October she ordered a few. When she received them, she posted on my wall “I try to show my SCARs as much as possible and your brand is going to help me. Wonderful job Rhachelle”. I don’t think either one of us knew what would happen next or where the virtual relationship would take us. We talked a few times on the phone, would send text and like and share one another’s facebook post. But God was definitely working some things on the back end. I had been working hard to get my line off the ground.

In December, Antonina Griffin created a YouTube video sharing her powerful testimony of overcoming. The video went viral. We spoke shortly after and could not believe what was taking place. I told her I would help her in anyway that I could, website creation, etc. We both agreed that people were in search of healing and hope. However we were able to get that message across, we were determined to do it. Then I got a call, “I am going to share your shirts and I just want to make sure that you are ready”. This is what Antonina was saying to me on the other end of the phone. I thought to myself, I have some shirts, the usual stock that I keep. I responded, “Okay!” A week may have past or so, then I received another call from Antonina. She wanted to place a wholesale order for the “My Scars” Tee. Let’s just say that by the time the actual order of shirts were shipped, close to 200 shirts were sent to North Carolina.

Also, due to the overwhelming response from her YouTube video, Antonina was extended the opportunity to travel to the UK and share her testimony. Guess what she decided to bring along?!? My Scars in the UKYes, the “My Scars” tee. Who knows if I ever would have made it to the UK. I been out of the country one time and my passport has since expired. But God! Antonina was a speaker at the Dare To Dream 2013 event and I am quite sure that her testimony has left a lasting impact on the people in attendance. The “My Scars” tees are now being worn and the UK is “Showing Their Scars”!!!

“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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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

Merry Christmas

Christmas tree

Christmas tree (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

 

Wow another Christmas is here!!!  The smell of Christmas trees, the sight of dancing lights, the cold winter nights, it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.  It seems like it comes faster every year and it takes me a while to get into the Christmas spirit.  These past couple of days have been spent snuggled up with my children on the couch playing video games.  Everyday they have pleaded to open a gift  but I have managed not to give in.  Watching their excitement and anticipation build is priceless.

 

I am just thankful that we once again received a Christmas miracle.  This year came with many challenges.  But those challenges revealed what was in me.  I was crushed and pressed in more ways than one.  The pressure pushed me to tap into so many gifts that I did not realize I had been given and even feared using.  But they have been unwrapped and I am not wrapping them back up.   So while my children enjoy their toys on Christmas day, I will be celebrating and enjoying the greatest gift ever, purpose.

 

What gift are you hoping for this Christmas?

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

 

 

Book Review: Walk In Your Power

Walk In Your Power BookKanina Johnson did an excellent job breaking down the Law of Attraction along with 11 other universal laws.  Walk In Your Power was a quick and easy read but it was full of a wealth of wisdom and knowledge.  It is not often that I will do a book review.  I usually stick to author interviews or guest post features.  After reading Walk In Your Power, I knew that I had to write a review.  Kanina Johnson begins the book sharing some of her personal story and why she desired to seek out the knowledge and wisdom that she shares.  I connected with the author early on from her personal story.  Johnson wrote the book in a way that was so easy to understand and apply the tools.

This book taught me so much about the scriptures that I meditate on, the promises that I know God has spoken into my life and how to truly welcome those promises into my life.  For a lot of believers, I have noticed it is hard for them to embrace and attempt to understand the Law of Attraction.  For some, they feel that the belief in the Law of Attraction is contrary to believing in God.  Walk In Your Power does not add or subtract from who God is.   While breaking down the Law of Attraction, Walk In Your Power gives more incite into the scriptures that we have been taught but so many lack true understanding.

Walk In Your Power covers the Law of Attraction and 11 other Universal Laws that operate in our lives, whether we are aware of them or not.

1. Law of Thinking: “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.”  Proverbs 23:7

2. Law of Forgiveness: “Forgive and you shall be forgiven.” Luke 6:37

These are just a couple of the laws that were mentioned.  I made so many notes and I am sure I will be reading this book again.  One scripture that comes to mind is Philippians 4:7, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”  Focus on those things that you desire in your life and more of it will be added.  When we choose to honor God with our lives our thoughts should align.

Walk In Your Power closes with a discussion on vision and purpose.  One quote that stood out to me was, “You will not see the second step until you have taken the first”.  Start moving forward in the vision that God has laid out for you.  Trust that He will order each step if your trust Him with the first.  Get your copy of Walk In Your Power. You can also connect with Kanina Johnson on Facebook.

About the Author

Kanina Johnson, a licensed Bob Proctor Life Success Consultant, wrote Walk in Your Power to reveal life secrets and universal laws that she has seen at work in her own life and is eager to share with others. She has devoted her life to helping others manifest their personal potential.

 

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!

Showing Our Scars Movement

What started as a quote to sign each copy of Sunday Mournng in 2011, was developed into a shirt in 2012. Now with the year fastly coming to a close, get ready for the “Showing Our Scars” Movement. Over the weekend, a survey was shared on Facebook for everyone to take part in naming the movement. “Showing Our Scars” won by a landslide. The name and what it stands for speaks volumes.

The “Showing Our Scars” Movement remains true to the RN Brand vision of inspiring others to heal and grow, while allowing their dreams to take root. It is our desire through the movement to empower and inspire others through life’s ups and downs, victories and triumphs.

“I show my scars so that others know they can heal” is message of transparency, hope and service. This message has traveled both near and far, touching the hearts of those that come across it. The “Showing Our Scars” movement will consist of men and women from all walks of life who realized it was better to pursue healing and peace than be wounded and self-destructing.

We are also glad to announce that the new shirt added to the collection, is a unisex shirt. So men it will no longer be a challenge for you to show your scars. Understanding that a movement had already begun when the first t-shirt was purchased, we want to welcome those who are new. We want you to know that no matter what you have been through or going through, you can make it. For all the vets, someone needs to see your scars…Let’s Go!

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

20130330-082309.jpg

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.

Wanza Leftwich: Faith and Fertility

I may not know much about infertility but I do know about the power of prayer and standing on God’s word.  I am so happy to welcome Wanza Leftwich, author of Faith and Fertility.  She has an awesome testimony to share!
1. How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for twelve years now. Isn’t amazing how fast time goes by!

2. What genre best describes your writing?
My fiction genre is classified as Urban Christian Fiction – the tell it like it is, no holds barred type of Christian writing that depicts real people serving a real God. I also write non-fiction which tends to have the type of impact – writing that is real, transparent andaimed at helping others.

3. What inspired your most recent book?
My most recent book was inspired by my personal life. Faith and Fertility: All Things Are Possible comes directly from my heart. It is about my experience through infertility and how God enabled me to get rid of an infertility defeated mindset.

4. Was it difficult to write on the subject?
Honestly, it was not difficult to write, but i find that the content may be challenging to women who are suffering through infertility. It is not written to keep women in despair or sadness. It gives hope and encourages the reader to activate their faith and believe for the impossible.

5. On twitter, you go by @TheGospelWriter. How did you come up with that name?

Can you believe I recently gave up that name as my twitter handle? I absolutely loved that name. When I first began writing I was taught that you should have a brand. The Gospel Writer became my name because I write about the Gospel of Jesus Christ Be it fiction and non-fiction, I encourage readers to grow in their walk with Christ. Recently, I’ve changed my twitter handle to my name @WanzaLeftwich to represent the brand that is evolving now.

6. How do you balance writing your own books and novels with editing those of others?
I am learning to not take on more than I can handle :-) . Basically, I schedule my clients according to the deadlines that I have. I try not overload my schedule. This works best for me and my clients. I able to meet my deadlines and my clients receive the personal attention that their books deserves.

7. What is the one thing that you would tell someone who is interested in writing a book but has some reservations?
Just write! Get it all out of your system. Don’t worry about editing, grammar or structure. Get it on paper. Let your thoughts flow. Let your heart speak freely. You will be surprised what comes out. Most importantly, don’t be fearful. Someone needs your words.

8. Who motivated you and have you that extra push to begin writing?
I was motivated by my sister in law who self published three books. She told me what I tell people everyday – “just write”. As simple as it sounds, it works. I’m motivated to keep writing when I hear that someone’s life has been changed because of my words.

9. What can we expect from you in the near future?
I’m glad that you asked! I am headed in a new direction. My book Faith and Fertility has ushered me into a new area. With the launch of my
new site(in a few days), www.wanzaleftwich.com, my mission is to encourage women struggling with infertility to overcome it with faith.
I have a series of courses coming out including, the Infertility Defeated Mindset Bootcamp. And of course, you can expect another book, Infertility Defeated.

10. Any last words?
Thank you so much for this interview. I’ve truly enjoyed it! As always, you and your readers can connect with me socially on
www.Twitter.com/wanzaleftwich or www.facebook.com/wanzaleftwich

Get your copy of Faith and Fertility at amazon.com available in paperback and on Kindle!

Losing to Win: Evelyn Lozada’s Journey to Healing

63850151

63850151 (Photo credit: accidentalpaparazzi)

We’ve watched Evelyn Lozada rise to the rank of a Reality TV star, marry her on camera and off camera beau, Chad Johnson (Ochocinco) and become the victim of domestic violence. Evelyn, most known for her bullying behavior, no holds bar opinions and recent tumultuous relationship has lost a lot over the course of this year, bestfriend, Jennifer Williams, and now her marriage. Evelyn became the Basketball wife we all loved to hate. And after seeing her on screen relationships with her girlfriends and Chad her life became a little predictable. We knew just about every week she would end up in a caddy argument, picking a fight and we definitely knew that she would say “yes” if ever popped the question.

But one thing we probably didn’t see coming, I know I didn’t, is Evelyn seeking help and acknowledging her bad girl behavior. Fix My Life, a new series on the Own Network with relationship expert, Iyanla Vanzant, is being described as “the reality show you have never seen before.” And to my surprise, Evelyn Lozada actually sought out the guidance and began filming for the show in early July before her domestic violence incident with Chad. So what may have appeared as a downward spiral will hopefully end in some good. If there is anyone that can get to the root of a thing it is Iyanla. Hopefully Evelyn has had enough of being “about that life” and continues to evolve and grow into the woman she is destined to be.

This morning on my facebook status I posted a scripture that I have been meditating on. “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” 1 Peter 5:10 We all suffer in different ways, relationships, financially, physically, etc. but sometimes our greatest lessons come out of our greatest sufferings. While we caught a glimpse of Evelyn’s story behind the camera, I can only pray that God is completing her story behind the scenes.

Fix My Life premieres on September 15th and 16th at 10/9c on OWN

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

Le'Andria Johnson

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