He’s a Man With More than Just “Love Games”

When you hear his name, you may not recognize it unless you are an avid Love Games fan, but he’s certainly on his way to stardom.  After I saw one episode I was hooked and not because the show was the best on television, but because he grabbed my attention.  That person was Matthew Goodman, a.k.a. Matt.  Of course some would see his handsome look and pretty smile and think the obvious, but there was a feeling of genuine charm that couldn’t be ignored.  He stood out from the others and I knew I had to get a deeper peek into what he was all about.  I took a chance and requested an interview with the young man and of course, in true southern gentleman fashion, he agreed to give his fans a sneak peak into his world.

Native to Atlanta, GA Matt knew at a young age that he wanted to be in the lime light and show the world what he was made of.  So far, it looks as though he is succeeding with his goal!  He’s been seen in films such as, Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming and 5 Days in the Day “A”.  He was also featured as a cast member on BET’S College Hill Atlanta Season 5, as well as, BET’s 106 & Park and Spring Bling.  You may have also seen him showing off his skills on Showtime at the Apollo’s Dance Competition in 2006, where he won over the crowd 3 times!  Matt’s most recent camera time has been captured on Oxygen’s Love Games, where he was chosen as the winner who found love with Bad Girl’s Club voodoo vixen, Judi.  He explains, “Love Games was a more intimate, personal level that people were able to view me in.  I feel that it was an exposure platform for what is to come in the near future…”

Not only is he making his way through Hollywood, but he’s also making his way through Atlanta by helping out local organizations and foundations such as, the Ludacris Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club.  He spends his free time helping out and giving back; something that is becoming very rare among those finding success.  When asked what he wanted the first thing people thought of when they heard his name he said, “Real, Ambitious, Intellectual, Gentleman, Humble.  Evenly spread across the board, these words best describe me as an ever-evolving individual.”

His answer alone is unique, therefore it seems only fitting that his career take the same mold. Matthew isn’t just interested in being on the big screen, but he also has musical aspirations that include rapping, writing, producing and performing across the globe.  He is slated to release his EP by Spring 2012.  My main goal is to always uncover what inspires someone to keep pushing and the things that keep Matt pursuing his music and television are simple. In his words:

The love and passion for music, as well as television and film, is what continues to drive me to pursue my career as I do. Secondly, the support and feedback that I receive from people everyday plays a huge role in where I’m currently at in my career.

With dreams of success in mind, Matt is charting his own territory in the industry, but inquisitive minds may wonder how he won’t be sucked into the world of being just an ordinary reality star.  Let’s face it, it’s the new fad for young people making their rise to fame, but if you are one of the individuals left to wonder if he will fall victim, check out how he plans on NOT allowing this to happen:

I plan on making sure that reality T.V. success won’t niche me as a typical “reality T.V. star” by constantly reinventing myself and who I am as a person.  You’re not the same person you were a year ago, not even a few months ago.  With that being said, there is always room for growth and improvement. I have lifelong business, as well as, personal goals I’ve set for myself and being young, complacency is not an option nor an excuse.

Well, there you have it.  He just may be as unique as he seems and driven to go against the norm.  My interview is just a small peak into the world of someone who is clearly destined for something big, but the glimpse may inspire others to stick with their goals and attain their own success, such as Matthew Goodman.  So, what is his God-given purpose in life?  He tells his fans:

I feel that because I am still alive and breathing, I have not yet fulfilled my ideal God-given purpose.  Nevertheless, I  feel that I have a special gift in communicating with people.  I’m a people person and I would love to reach different ethnicities and cultures, through music and artistic expression.

His journey is picking up speed and I can’t help but be excited for what’s to come of this young, humble, intellectual and ambitious young man’s life and career.  One thing’s for sure, the right attitude goes a long way and for that alone, greatness is definitely in his future.

If you want to learn more about Matthew, visit his website: http://www.matthewdgoodman.com/

 

You can also check out this clip of the Love Games Season 3 Finale: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3ZBXSbRpu8

As always, another story of hard work and dedication proves to have a pay off.  This is just another sign that there are plenty of dreams to be had in the Dreamgirl’s world!

Some Will Stay Forever, but NOT Everyone Made it to 2012 with Me!

To my followers, I say “THANK YOU” for supporting me and taking the time to read such great stories of inspiration!  I’ve gotten many emails and comments from those that were truly helped and inspired after reading about some amazing people and their journeys through life.  I have some additional interviews that I will be disclosing within the next month or so; stay tuned!

With that said, I think it’s a good idea to clear the air and make a personal statement with this being a new year and all.  I’ve welcomed 2012 with open arms; 2011 was filled with so many events, ups and downs, trials, epiphanies, changes, etc.  It was a busy year, to say the least.  However, in all the lessons that I took away from the past year, there are two that shine through (not all friendships last forever and family means everything) and I’m sure others will be able to relate.  I took time to slim down my circle of friends, evaluated who I’ve been letting into my life and it was certainly time for a change.  Although, I’m a FIRM believer that everyone comes into your life for a reason, it is also true that not everyone is meant to stay.  It wasn’t all DEEP though; I took some much-needed time to be with the people who mean the most and I did things that made ME happy like, take a trip to Miami for my brother’s birthday…

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Went to see Jay and Kanye’s Watch the Throne Tour…

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Went to L.A. for the first time…

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I had some amazing experiences, but of course as luck would have it, it wasn’t all fun and games for me.  Friendships were tested!  Some of my friendships ended, some of them started, but the ones that stand out the most are those that just disappeared.  I had a “friend” get engaged and will be married soon; I guess that invitation got lost in the mail (FYI, never drop your girls for any man…that’s Rule #1)!  After 11 years of friendship, she broke the mighty, mighty Rule #1.  I had another “friend” become so selfish and unappreciative of my time and truly thought that the world revolved around her drinking schedule…that relationship is no longer an issue for me.  Both situations were with two different people, but had the same outcome and I have no issues with either one being gone.  Of course time and attention were invested and sacrifices were made on both ends, but when the expiration date approaches I don’t fight it.  I don’t look back and I certainly don’t lose sleep over fixing something that will forever be broken. Sorry folks, no pics of the two ladies referenced above…I’m not that cold-hearted.

The moral of my story is, no matter how positive you may try to be in life, no matter how inspired you are by someone’s success, or how you try to maintain mind control, nothing will prepare any of us for the unexpected things that happen in life.  One of the unexpected things that life may bring is having to say “good-bye” to those that you thought had your best interest at heart.  I’d rather deal with the pain of turning away, than suffer a lifetime of toxic relationships…that will certainly end up killing me in the long run.  Instead, I chose to rid my life of the bad and celebrate the good!  I brought in the new year with a bang, with friends and friends of friends!

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Living life the happy way is the first step to moving in the right direction!  The Dreamgirl can’t dream if she surrounds herself with nightmares!  Keep on dreaming!

Is My Friend Always Going to be Shipwrecked on Fabulous Island?!?!

It’s a new year everyone…WELCOME, 2012!  With only a few more entries to go, I am continuing my series on inspirational surroundings and next up is….(drum roll please) the most successful multi-tasker that I know.  She can light a fire under anyone’s butt and motivate them to DO SOMETHING!  If you are struggling with finding a purpose in life, getting started on a goal (big or small) or simply need some encouraging words to help you step out on faith, this woman is who you want to read about!  She’s an everyday, down to earth, kind-hearted being that just about anyone can relate to.

I could write and entire novel each month and there still wouldn’t be enough pages to describe the talent, passion, creativity, drive and integrity of someone who I’m honored to not only call my friend, but one of the coolest craft-masters out there!  That’s right, she goes by the name, Tabby, and is able to juggle being a mom, wife, event planner, blogger (http://shipwreckedonfabulousisland.blogspot.com) crafter, teacher, and still goes to work at her “9-5”.  She is co-founder of Embellished Affairs (www.embellishedaffairs.com); an amazing event planning company that specializes in making any and every event FABULOUS beyond belief.  If you’ve experienced an event that Tabby has had her hand in, you will always recognize her signature work and love it!

Her creativity is believed to be a genetic trait that both her mother and father can take credit for.  Behind her father’s cold exterior, “he disguises his amazing artistic talent…” and her mother has always been “the crafty mom involved in everything from the Youth Ministry at church to the neighborhood mom.”  In her words, “if my creativity isn’t genetic it was definitely nurtured by BOTH of my parental units!”  She’s gotten the best of both worlds and she’s become a “calculated perfectionist who keeps it fun and sparkly.”  She defines creativity as:

…Allowing one’s internal cheerleader to embrace one’s internal weirdo…it is often a self-celebration for doing something out of “the norm.” Sometimes you have to listen for the whispering voice in your head that says, “you can do this”…like Nemo, just keep swimming to see it through.

If you need a place to visit to learn her tips, step by step instructions and everything fabulosity, take a look at her site shipwreckedonfabulousisland.blogspot.com.  It is her “personal online sanctuary where [she] can be as nerdy, eccentric, dramatic and moody as [she] wants.  It’s [her] place to revel in all things pretty, crafty, family and fabulous.”  Is there anything that she doesn’t do?  HMMMM, probably not!

Tabby gets an idea and runs with it; her hands are like a surgeon’s on fabulous crack (yes, I said crack)!  I got the opportunity to attend her daughter’s 5 year old Minnie Mouse theme Birthday party and it was BOW-rrific!


 Hand-made bows on headbands as party favors!

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A Bow-Bar!  Every little girl’s fantasy…they were there for the taking!

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She adds something special to all of her events and again, her fabulous touch can always be seen and felt!

Amazing display of the reception cards!

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“Tasty” and beautiful candy shop for a kid’s event!

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Added elegance to hand fans!

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Indian wedding…they do it all!

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Zion’s 4th Birthday Candy Bar (I know, I put 2 candy bars on display, but I love candy…)!

Tabby and her business partner, Sheena, successfully came up with a business model that worked for them after realizing that they “were the event planner for their respective circle of friends, family members and clients.”  They identified their target audience (everyone) and “stepped out on faith to execute successful events one detail at a time.” A key in gaining traction was their decision to “undercut market rates to build [their] reputation.”  They worked “twice as hard to prove themselves” and smartly left lasting impressions on every person that they met along the way, i.e. vendors, clients, family of clients, etc.  Embellished Affairs received weddingwire.com’s Brides’ Choice Award every year since its inception!  For your next milestone celebration, contact Embellished Affairs at: www.embellishedaffairs.com

I wonder how she manages to juggle it all so successfully!  She keeps her favorite biblical verse close to her heart 24/7:

1 COR 16:14 “Be on guard. Stand true to what you believe. Be courageous. Be strong. And everything you do must be done with love.” I do what I love…I do family time. I do event planning. I do blogging. I do crafting. I do PTO. I do Sunday School teaching. I do singing. I do baking. I do photography. Sometimes I feel like I do it all and, one day, it might kill me. Then I remember I do it all in love and somehow I live to see another day.

To say that she is an amazing mother would be an understatement!  In fact, her family IS her motivation and they are like her own personal fan club! Her husband, Brian, believes that “there is nothing she can’t do and his confidence in her pushes her to do better.”  Her daughter, Zion, is so amazing and imaginative that she naturally keeps Tabby “on her toes.”  One thing I love is that she lets Zion in on the fun and action of creation during their at-home craft sessions!  Whether Zion is a model, the creator or simply the person that she is creating for, she’s ALWAYS included!

If you think she does it all, you’re right!  Women who want to be much more than just a wife or mom, but rather an independent and strong female who can also keep God and her family at the center of everything can relate to her!  I could go on for days, but instead I leave you with something that motivates me, but comes from Tabby’s mind.  What’s her God-given purpose on earth?  Check it out:

I take every day as an opportunity to have a new God-given purpose…I know my ultimate purpose is to bring others to Him through influential service. I would, however, be remiss if I didn’t speak to my passion to redefine the importance of family in our society…My immediate reward is the happiness of my family but my heart is warmed when I read notes of encouragement and inspiration from mothers and fathers everyday…They make my hot glue burns all worth it!

From His Pen to Our Ears! Donnell Shawn Butler

Continuing my series on amazing stories of success, perseverance and the ultimate search of life’s purpose, here’s a glimpse into the world of Donnell Shawn Butler.  At first glance you may not recognize his name, but within the music industry this young talent is a force to be reckoned with.  He is blessed with the ability to sing better than many popular (high paid) crooners, write tracks for platinum-selling artists, produce and play keyboard!

He first fell in love with music at the innocent age of 5.  Who might have been his first attention grabber? Stevie? Marvin? Nope.  The Gap Band, singing “I’m in Love” on the radio!  If you’ve ever heard him sing, you’d think he spent top dollars on the best vocal coach, but he managed to teach himself.  In his own words, “I was whack at first then kept singing all day.”  His ability to write songs began in much the same way as he explains, “I just sat down and wrote a song.  Not a lot of thought to it.”  How did he become so good at creating masterpieces?  He believes, “Practice makes a successful anything.”  Despite his raw, self-taught, skills Donnell’s journey hasn’t always been the easiest; it took sacrifice and walking out on faith…oh and of course, being told “no.”

If you were wondering whether or not Donnell faced rejection along the way, his insight is simple, “HAHA…rejection is the name of the game.  I’ve been told “no” almost my whole life.”  He also had to discover that his hometown wasn’t the best place to fully birth his talents.  Although Philly is where his passion sparked, L.A. was the fuel to his flame.  The opportunity to leave the City of Brotherly Love and relocate to the City of Angels was the start of his new beginning, but it meant leaving his family behind in order to gain exposure and mold his future.  The risk has certainly been worth the reward and Donnell is making his new area code work for him in every way.  When asked what it was about L.A. that had him pack his bags quick, fast and in a hurry he says:

Los Angeles is where the artists are and where people are really networking hard.  The atmosphere is entertainment.  [My] transition wasn’t very hard at all…it was very natural because I’m in my environment.  The studio.  Everyone here is networking and willing to work with each other…no one is keeping secrets or staying in a clique.

Have Mr. Butler’s years in Philly and leap into “Smog City” paid off at all?  You be the judge.  He’s written music for Craig David, Timbo, Letoya Luckett, Boyz 2 Men, Kevin Rudolf, Jesse McCartney, BlackStreet, Day26, Bridget Kelly, Lil Wayne and most recently Mary J. Blige (“Irreversible” off of her latest album, My Life II…The Journey Continues (Act I)).  Even with all of his success, he still isn’t 100% sure of his God-given purpose, but knows that he is meant to inspire others at the very least.  Donnell has learned that, “You have to be present in whatever you do.  Go places and meet people and force your way into the door.  Continue to write and write and write…something will give.”  For his fellow, future young stars, he leaves them with this additional bit of advice:

Make sure it’s what you want.  Make sure you can compete…Practice. Practice. Evolve. Take criticism always and get better. Be happy and grateful for anything you get.  Be a nice person!…Nice and friendly get you a LONG way over talent.  Non-stop work is the secret weapon. Stay up and do one extra thing and that could be the thing that takes you to the next level.

In the midst of his many blessings, Donnell has the rare ability to remain humble and grounded; something that seems to be missing from many stars today.  His journey can inspire just about anybody that reads this and that’s what makes this whole thing called life very magical.  Anybody can learn from their environment and the people around them; however, it’s up to each person to pay attention!  Sometimes elevating to the next level requires taking a risk that may or may not work out in your favor, but lucky for Donnell Shawn Butler, his risks are paying off in every way imaginable…will yours?

The Screen Vault…His Story Behind the Cameras

As I announced in my previous post, I have begun reaching out to a diverse circle of people who will definitely be able to motivate, encourage and enlighten my readers through their unique stories of success.  This first spotlight is a special one and not only because it is the first within my series, but it represents exactly what we are all searching for…a purpose driven life!  I became familiar with his story after I spontaneously began following his Twitter page (@ScreenVaultCEO).  Yes, it’s random, but sometimes in life you are drawn to something or someone and cannot begin to explain the cosmic connection of two parallel universes; you just know that it’s for a purpose greater than yourself. 

Named Vaughn Givens and a Washington, D.C. native, he began his journey in a not-so-traditional way.  Not sure which direction to go in, he hung close to his grandmother’s side, whom he reveals is his inspiration.  Throughout his life she would always encourage him to do what he loved at all times, but as we know, life isn’t that simple when you don’t know what you love.  Not having all of the answers, Vaughn was unsure which direction to steer his efforts.  However, one thing remained definite; he wanted to make his family proud.  When asked about his educational background, his response was simple,  “I have some college background. I hated school. I never really took it serious…”  To some, his answer might be a bit raw and unorthodox, but to others it could be a sign of greatness in the making.

 

In true roller coaster form, his life took a dramatic turn with the passing of his grandmother.  While dealing with the death of his inspiration, a.k.a. “Nana,” he began to dig deeper and take heed to her familiar words of wisdom, “do what you love!”  Vaughn took matters into his own hands, realizing that his life was destined for something great.  He attended the Hollywood Film Institute and began motivating himself.  Outside of the collegiate walls he began reading on his own, as well as, seeing the world with a more visual perspective.  Mr. Givens began developing what would become his passion for film.

Through this passion, he has been able to manifest his dreams into a startling reality with the birth of his very own production company.  Vaughn is the sole founder and creator of The Screen Vault; an independent film production company that prides itself on being the change that the world needs.  In his words, “Most people these days have lost their sense of imagination and we plan to bring that back!”  He has begun the production of Inner City Blues and is actively piecing together what could become D.C.’s very own masterpiece.  His film depicts the many experiences he has lived first-hand or witnessed through those around him.  When asked about the storyline, here’s what he had to say:

Inner City Blues is a very powerful story about three high-school students who grow up in the slums of Washington, D.C. They never really have time for their childhoods because of the situations that they’re put in.  It tells of the day to day struggles that kids in the inner city go through and it promotes change in our community.

His passion for this project can hardly be described and without witnessing his daily grind, you may never understand what the success of his very own movie would mean. He has pride for his city and will stop at nothing to reach his ultimate goal of re-writing film history…becoming a legend.  Most importantly he wants to show the young kids in his city that, “you can make your dreams a reality.”  You can’t help but feel the pride that he has for his hometown when he proudly declares, “I love my city! D.C. is one of the greatest, most beautiful cities in the world to me.  I believe that [our] stories should be heard…we have so much more to offer than just politics.”

While some of us are still searching for a step in the right direction, Vaughn has realized that his God-given purpose in life is to “change the world through film-making.  It’s a very powerful tool and most filmmakers take that for granted.”  He believes in his abilities and has a goal in mind; sometimes that is the hardest part of any journey.  How can DC support?  WE can start by spreading the word about The Screen Vault and as Vaughn perfectly explains, “We need our city’s support more than anything! If I can get my whole city behind me then I can get the world.  That’s how I feel!”

Want to show your monetary support and help take The Screen Vault to the next level?  Vaughn’s project needs funding!  He is heading this project with his own money and donations.  All funds go toward the cast, crew and production.  Please keep in mind that this is the first major role for many of his actors and for the DMV to show support, would be the first big step towards making their dreams come true!  Helping this cause, could grant Inner City Blues the elite opportunity to be invited to the Cannes Film Festival; one of the biggest and most prestigious film festivals known.  To make a monetary donation, please visit: http://www.indiegogo.com/INNER-CITY-BLUES-1

Let’s not forget that some of the biggest talents such as John Singleton and Tyler Perry began their journey just like Vaughn Givens…with nothing but a passion and an opportunity to make a difference.

Out With The Old…In With The Old???

I thought the saying was, “Out with the old, in with the new” right?  At least that’s how I think it’s supposed to work, but no…of course it just couldn’t be that simple for me as it is for most people.  I sometimes feel like I’m funneling the old with the older.  Whether it’s through repetition of events or having people in my life that simply don’t offer progression, but are stifling instead.

In order to avoid falling into the same old traps of love, career choices, money habits, etc. I have decided to focus my energy on my surroundings.  My journey is all about trying new things, getting through the “storms” in my life and creating my own success with maintained faith; why not shift my tunnel vision a bit and learn something “new”?  In refocusing my thoughts and talents, I am building a greater appreciation for the successful people in my life who are also on their own path of “becoming” better individuals.  I know tons of men and women who are grinding EVERYDAY for what they believe in.  How did they get there? Where did they start? What things have they done to keep a high level of motivation? What motivates them to wake up every day and be the best they can be?

These are all questions that so many of us need the answers to!  In order to welcome a good change or a different perspective, I’ve found that it’s often a wise choice to look at those around us and learn from them.  Afterall, I’m the Queen of “Everyone is in your life for a reason!” and it’s time to dig into the brains of the fabulous people I call my family, friends and strangers who I’m meeting in the cyber world (no creeps, I promise).  I will be highlighting the lives and careers of individuals from all walks of life who can offer wisdom to not only me, but to my readers as well!

THOUGHT: If you think this world only consists of personal wisdom and one path to choose from, you are selling yourself very short! Allow other people to be your muse, your mentor, your “light” source.

I DARE TO BE DIFFERENT!!!

If I’m destined to be great, how will I know when I’ve finally reached the point of greatness?  If my purpose is to help others, how will I know when I’ve reached enough people?  I’ve come to the conclusion that I won’t ever truly know the answers to these questions.  I think it’s just something I will learn to recognize.  I recently had to give myself a gut check and remember what my main goal is: To provide others with the same guidance I have received and continue to receive on a regular basis.

It’s so easy to read a blog about celebrities or get caught up in the reality TV hoopla (trust me, I have a few guilty pleasures that I watch) or to be obsessed with our favorite stars.  But what valuable information does that provide?  What life lessons can we get out of knowing that Kim Kardashian’s marriage only lasted 72 days?  Just like the next person, it’s all entertaining to some degree, but when we fail to have the ability to separate reality from fantasy, that’s when the trouble comes. 

I dare to be different and want to be known for something much more than a social scandal or 15 minutes of fame on VH1.  When people think of me, I want them to see someone who has overcome, hustled and learned from their mistakes.  When I needed words of wisdom or a listening ear, I had people to turn to.  When I had questions about growing pains, I had people to turn to.  I just want to be able to offer the same assistance and support for others…even if it is just one person that I’m reaching.

THOUGHT: This may seem all over the place, but to bring it all together I will leave you with this…I look at the mistakes and wrong turns that others have made and I do the opposite.  I see those that have become successful and I strive to be better than them.  I don’t have to be in the spotlight to be considered a star…I’m a star in my own right!

A Thanksgiving Special!

It’s a great idea to always try new things, especially when they seem somewhat difficult.  I’m no cooking expert, but I gave it my all this Thanksgiving…I hope I made Daddy proud!

I made a list of everything that I wanted to make for Thanksgiving dinner:

1. Turkey

2. Stuffing

3. Collard Greens

4. Corn Pudding

5. Mashed Potatoes

I wanted to make sure that it was all from scratch!  So here’s a quick overview of my journey through the kitchen this past holiday.

TURKEY…

Before

After

STUFFING…

COLLARD GREENS…

CORN PUDDING…

MASHED POTATOES…

READY TO EAT!!!

This was only my second time making Thanksgiving dinner and I must say, I was really proud of myself!

Mixed in with good food and a long nap, the next day was filled with a long walk through D.C. and spending quality time with my favorite person!!!

This, by far, has been one of the best Thanksgiving breaks ever!  Family and food…nothing beats that!

Let Me Scratch Your Back!

When you get to a point in your life when you want to make a change, do something different or just experience something more fulfilling it’s easy to become all about “self” unknowingly.  You go through the days focusing only on your life and your goals and what you can do for YOU, but a part of living your purpose should include helping others.  My life is happier and more gratifying when I can sit back and look at how I have impacted another person’s life.  It can be something as small as a phone call or as big as a life saving favor.  Whatever the size of the selfless act, it makes me feel good to lend a helping hand when I can.  The most important thing that I remember is, I don’t expect anything in return.  Does it feel nice to be able to count on others like they do me?  Sure, but it’s not necessary.  If I have it to give, then I will “scratch your back” and offer it without being asked first.  Being selfless boosts my faith, my loyalty to others and my soul…that is more valuable than any tangible object.

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It wasn’t always as easy for me to be so giving; it’s something that I’ve developed over the years, but my consistent love for others and God has helped me get to this point and I wouldn’t change it for anything.  Me leading a more peaceful lifestyle creates an environment that breeds success and unconditional joy.  I am realizing that ONE of my purposes in this life is to look out for those around me, whether it be a friend or an enemy.  I was born to love.

 

THOUGHT: Being kind and giving to others is what inspires change for the better.