My life. My world. Love, hope, peace, joy & happiness.
Good Morning☀️
Place everything—your fears, worries, needs, wants, and dreams—in God’s hands and leave them there. He has already worked everything out in your favor, from your current needs to your future dreams. Yes, leave them in God’s hands and rest.
I pray that your day is just as amazing as you are. You deserve it!♥️
I love you always,
Shaun
This morning I finally logged back onto one of my personal Instagram accounts. Didn’t know that I had been logged off for six weeks. I definitely needed that break.
Also, a few days ago, I logged back onto my Nutrition with LaShaundreaB accounts.
Since my mom’s been in the hospital (and she still is), I have been feeling kind of lost with no true sense of direction. It’s like my life has been placed on an indefinite hold. I’m not sad about it, nor disappointed, just a bit uncertain about my next moves. You know, I had logged off social media to focus on launching this project and BAM! the unexpected happened. I guess this is what makes life interesting, right?
This morning, I’m writing while still sleepy so I’m not going to make this very long. Here’s what I’ve recently realized (the reasons I decided to log back onto social media):
1) Life is going to continue to happen whether I’m plugged in or not. Yep… it’s still moving right along.
2) I am in control of the affect distractions have on my focus, emotions and feelings. It’s all on me.
3) The only sure, unwavering thing is God’s love, mercy, grace and peace. Yeah… it’s all inclusive. He is my refuge and a place I can always find rest.
Y’all, it’s so wonderful knowing that God never changes based on our moods, emotions, feelings, doubts, egos, etc. He always remains the same. I’m so grateful and blessed that I can always find peace and comfort in Him. He’s just so wonderful!
As I said, I’m back on social media; however, this time my focus is different. Allowing God to lead.
I pray that everything is well in your life. As always, thanks for reading. I truly appreciate y’all.♥️
Shaun
Today I would like to ask you to take a moment of silence to remember those who have recently lost their lives to mass shootings in the United States (May 14 – 24, 2022):
Buffalo, New York (Supermarket)
May 14, 2022
10 lives taken
Laguna Woods, California (Church)
May 15, 2022
1 life taken
Uvalde, Texas (Elementary School)
May 24, 2022
21 lives taken
Prayers for their loved ones who are heartbroken and confused. Prayers for those who are saddened, hurt and angered by those who fail to recognize and address the racial and ethnical issues we have in the U.S.; as well as the gun violence that continues to plague the United States. As much as I desire to see the good in everyone, I’m actually beginning to believe that some people are incapable of love, empathy and compassion. Because if they were, they would care more about lives than their agendas.
I have to remain hopeful or I will become like them.
Shaun
Thy will be done.
How often have you said, “Thy will be done,” lately? Me, I haven’t. Haven’t said it in a while. I used to say it all of the time, especially when I set out to do something new – new job, new venture, new collaborations, new relationships. I used to pray and ask God if it were in His will to allow it to happen and if not, please allow it to pass. Well, what happened? Why did I stop using my disclaimer (that’s what I call it)?
The answer that comes to mind – I thought I could force whatever I wanted into something that would fit God’s will. I saw the vision. I somewhat know the purpose. However, instead of waiting on God before moving, I thought I would make my own moves to get there. For someone who is always talking about allowing God to lead, I seem to keep falling short in certain areas. It’s as if I do not trust Him with certain aspects of my life. I know that whenever I say, “Thy will be done,” it opens up the doors for any and everything that could possibly happen. In other words, it frightens me. I have witnessed people lose loved ones, become paralyzed, get cancer, and so much more. To me, and I am just being honest, saying that one phrase opens the door for unknown (sometimes bad) things to happen. You could become ill like Job (in the Bible) or get hit with a life that you did not want, something miserable. As I wrote those last few words, God reminded me that Job’s story did not end with him being down. Because of his faithfulness and unwavering belief in God, God restored everything he lost and added more. Job did not live out the rest of his days sick and down, he lived a happy life.
So, who is to say that my worst days are not behind me. Maybe I have already seen my worst. Up until a year or so ago, I used my disclaimer quite often, and God always saw me through the tough times – ALWAYS. Therefore, I must believe that the best is still to come, not the worst. I have to know that saying, “Thy will be done,” releases the shackles I have placed on God and will allow Him to do great things in my life. It is not in His will for me to suffer but to be prosperous. However, I must believe this. And I know from experience, if I only imagine the worst, I will never be open to receive the good. Been through this before. It’s all about mindset.
Lord, Thy will be done.
As always, thanks for reading!
Be Blessed –
Shaun
Didn’t feel like writing this morning. Was going to post a statement about accountability and be done. One of my words for 2020 was consistent and boy am I trying to remain consistent. My other word was sustainable. As we know, you cannot have anything sustainable if you’re not willing to be consistent. Which often means showing up when you don’t feel like it. Anyhoo.. I found this Facebook memory from March 3, 2019 and thought I’d share.
“Good Morning! Here’s today’s social media find. No matter how long it takes, keep holding on. Don’t throw in the towel. I love this quote because it’s so real. It seems like the closer you are to your dream being manifested, the more excuses and doubts fill your head. Whatever calling, or purpose, you have on your life, God will equip you to fulfill it. This is something I have to remind myself of when I start having doubts about what I know I’m supposed to do. Although tempted [to quit], don’t do it (in Joe’s voice😉). God will equip you with everything you need for all occasions. Have a blessed day.”
I’m here to encourage you (and myself– yes, I needed this message too) to remain steadfast. If you’re like me– you’re tired, you want to throw in the towel, or you just don’t feel like trying anymore– don’t give up!
Y’all, I needed this message this morning. Thankful for Facebook memories. Yesterday I posted, “Hang in there. You are stronger and more powerful than you think.” It was a message for yesterday. However, I’m pretty certain it’s definitely a message for future Shaun.
Listen, stay encouraged because God is working. He’s always working.
I love, y’all! Be blessed.
Shaun
I really should be asleep, but since I’m awake I’ll write. Was having a crazy dream about the rock band KISS, rappers Kid n Play, and eating dry cornbread in some fancy hotel room. Woke up coughing and reaching for water. I bet I can’t find KISS, Kid n Play, or dry cornbread in one of those dream book. Y’all, even while asleep, I’m being entertained. Gotta love life!
Anyhoo.. Yesterday I came across a photo I had taken at a conference. It was a picture of one of the speakers’ slides which read, “Preparation. Protection. Promotion.” I remember the speaker saying these are the steps God takes us through each time we embark on something new. First, we’re prepped for it. Meaning, we go through all kinds of tests and trials until God believes we’re ready to move to the next phase- Protection.
God’s protection zone is usually uncomfortable because it’s where nothing appears to be happening. You’re still in the preparation phase but you think you’re ready to shine. You know, it’s where you keep saying, “God, I’m ready!” and He responds with, “Not yet.” I don’t know about y’all, but I’ve gone through years of saying “I’m ready, Lord.” Only to hear Him say, “Be still. Not yet.” I’ve learned from experience that when He says to be still, I need to be still. It means I’m being protected. His method of protection reminds me of a parent protecting a child from touching something hot. The parent constantly tells the child not to touch the object because they’ll get burned. But once the parent turns their back, the child touches it. Lol. As I said, I’ve learned from experience to listen.
The protection phase isn’t as bad as it sounds. It’s where you get to make mistakes and no one seems to notice. You get to try what works and what doesn’t work. I guess you can say it’s the “trial and error” phase of the journey. The only problem I’ve had with this phase is that, in some situations, it can become too comfortable. Sometimes it becomes so comfortable that when God says it’s go time, you refuse to move. You make excuses for not moving forward. As usual, I’m not just writing this for you; as I write, God is speaking to me, too.
So, once God says you’re ready– which, from my experience, is when you feel the least prepared– comes the promotion. Promotion is scary, yet exhilarating; especially if you like adventures! However, promotion comes with a cost. Promotion comes with more exposure. More vulnerability. More responsibilities. As Biggie said, “Mo money, mo problems.” However, as Fred Hammond said, “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” Y’all, I’m so grateful I have God in my corner. When the problems come, or I encounter situations that seem unbearable, He reminds me that I can handle anything that’s thrown my way because I’m His child. I’m royalty!
This year I’m walking into new adventures standing tall knowing that God’s with me every step of the way. Ready or not Shaun, it’s game time!
As always, thanks for reading my early morning ramblings. Now it’s time to go back to sleep.
Be Blessed
Shaun
Death.
Seems like the older I become the more death seems to bother me. I’m not saying I wasn’t bothered by it before, but it was just different. When I was younger I believed I would live forever. Now that I’m almost 50, I see things differently. I often feel like I’m in a race against time. Will I achieve my goals before death takes me away from here? I try not to think about death, but it’s hard not to. A week ago, one of my mom’s long-time friends passed. Two weeks before that, a couple my family used to attend church with, died within days of each other. Their son and I were classmates. Then, two days before Ms. Cicely Tyson passed, one of my friends texted me that her dad had just passed unexpectedly. It’s like death is lurking everywhere. Honestly, it’s becoming a little too much.
Y’all, I have so many questions that only God can answer. Am I in a race against death? Will I die before I achieve my goals? Will I live to see my dreams come to fruition? What is God’s definition of “fulfilling your purpose”? Because I believe we could possibly have two completely different definitions. Sometimes I feel like I should stop pursuing my dreams, goals, and purpose, and just settle where I am. You know, just be content with what is. I mean, it would be less stressful. Less time consuming. Less heartbreaking. Less complicated. So why do I want more? Why do I continue to live as if I have 50+ years ahead of me? Why am I still moving forward as if I can have anything imaginable? Why?
Life.
My life.
Shaun
Today’s one of those days that I just don’t feel like writing. Honestly, I’m tired. I’m emotionally and mentally drained. The events that took place on January 6 at the U.S. Capitol did a number on me. I anticipated a few fights, maybe some vandalism of local businesses, but I was not prepared for the rest. What happened hurt my heart and soul. It wasn’t only the insurrection that took place, but the brutal reality that racial inequality still plagues our nation and people still seem oblivious to it. How can they still not notice? It was on display for the whole world to see. Never would a peaceful protest by Black people (yeah- I’m ONLY focusing on Black people) been met with such niceties and respect. From here on, I have nothing for those who choose to ignore the racial inequalities and inequities in our country. Nothing! I will no longer waste my time and energy trying to get people (Whites and Blacks– because there are a few) to understand the injustices Black people face on a daily basis. I’m done!
As you can see, I’m pretty emotional and hurt right now, so I’m going to end this. Yeah, today isn’t a good day for writing. Today I plan to disengage from social media and surround myself with positive vibes and love on my kids. I’m remaining hopeful that most people want change.
Next Sunday will be better. Please enjoy your day!
Shaun
We only have two Sundays left in 2020. Talk about mind blowing! Where did the time go? Maybe it’s just me, but this year seemed to pass by a little faster than past years. It’s like tomorrow is Monday and two days later it will be Friday! No joke! Y’all, time is moving much too fast. Perhaps that’s a good thing. God knows what He’s doing so I’m going to stop worrying about it. It’s not like I can slow it down. Lol!
Anyhoo.. I set out to write about one thing but now I’m writing about something else, something that’s currently on my mind. If you have been reading my blogs for a while you will know I have songs playing in my head all day. I rarely go a few hours without hearing a song. I wonder if everyone experiences this. I remember my great-great grandma humming all day long. So maybe it’s more common than I think.
Anyway.. got sidetracked.. the song that is currently playing in my head is Already Getting Better by William Murphy. The song says,
It’s already getting better
It’s already getting easier
God’s already moving on my behalf
He did it for me. . .
Yes, God did it
One of today’s Facebook memories was a quote by Trent Shelton from 2015. Here’s what he posted:
Sometimes we have to experience things we don’t understand just so God can bring us to a place where He needs us to be. Never doubt the season He has you in.
Trent Shelton, RehabTime 2015
William Murphy’s song and Trent Shelton’s quote are reminders that no matter where we are in life, or what we are experiencing, God is with us. At this very moment, we are where we are for a purpose, for His purpose. Like my issue with the speed of time, some things are not meant to be understood. They just aren’t. Our job, and really, our only job, is to trust God. Trust Him. Period. We may not understand the reason why things are happening, but He does. Maybe He’s preparing us for future endeavors. Or maybe He’s protecting us from harm. Whatever the case may be, we just have to trust Him. As William Murphy said, which is something we must remember, God is moving on our behalf. He’s got us!
Praying you have a wonderful Sunday and blessed week!
Shaun
Here’s what’s currently playing in my head– Yolanda Adam’s Never Give Up. Listen, no matter how bleak things may seem, remember to stay faithful. God is always working behind the scenes. So keep dreaming and never ever give up! He’s got you. Be blessed.
Never Give Up by Yolanda Adams
Visions that can change the world
Trapped inside an ordinary girl
She looks just like me
To afraid to dream out loud
And though it’s set for your idea
It won’t make sense to everybody
You need courage now
If you’re going to persevere
To fulfill your divine purpose
You’ve gotta answer when you’re called
So don’t be afraid to face the world
Against all odds
Keep the dream alive don’t let it die, if something deep inside
Keeps inspiring you to try, don’t stop
And never give up; don’t ever give up on you
Don’t give up
Every victory comes in time
Work today to change tomorrow
It gets easier
Who’s to say that you can’t fly?
Every step you take you gets
Closer to your destination
You can feel it now
Don’t you know you’re almost there?
To fulfill your life’s purpose
You’ve gotta’ answer when you’re called
So don’t be afraid to face the world
Against all odds
Keep the dream alive don’t let it die, if something deep inside
Keeps inspiring you to try, don’t stop
And never give up; don’t ever give up on you
Sometimes life can place a stubborn block in your way
But you’ve gotta keep the faith
Reap what deep inside your heart
To fly
And never give up
Don’t ever give up on you,
Don’t give up
Who holds the pieces to complete the puzzle?
The answer that can solve the mystery
The key that can unlock your understanding
It’s all inside of you
You have everything you need
So, keep the dream alive don’t let it die
If something deep inside keeps inspiring you to try
Don’t stop
And never give up; don’t ever give up on you
Sometimes life can place a stubborn block on your way
But you’ve gotta keep the faith
Bring what’s deep inside your heart
To the light
And never give up
Don’t ever give up on you
No don’t give up
No, no, no, no
Don’t give up
Don’t give up
Don’t give up
Oh, don’t, no, no, no, no
Don’t, give, up
Source: LyricFind and Never Give Up lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
It’s Shaun’s World 
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