Jacob and Rachel: A New Perspective

I'm sure most of us have heard/read the story of Jacob and Rachel. He worked 7 years to get her, got 'tricked' with her less attractive sister, Leah. Then worked 7 MORE YEARS to have Rachel. But THIS just breaks everything down in the best way I've ever read/heard this story. GOOD STUFF. Definitely learning from this and keeping it in my brain while I work on a better ME.

Here's the link: http://bible.org/seriespage/never-satisfied%E2%80%94i-story-jacob-and-racheli


Now here's MY P.O.V.



Do we get to points where we're NEVER satisfied in life? Rachel's story on this link, stood out to me the MOST because I find that I too have some issues with 'wanting MORE'. Sometimes it can be a good thing, depending on where you are in life, BUT if what you have is NEVER enough, no matter HOW God blesses you, you need work on that. The saddest part was after her saying she wanting more children or else she would DIE! She ended up DYING during childbirth and being buried ALONE. Never getting to see this child grow up and flourish. So she never got to enjoy having him. Even using her last breath to name him Ben-oni, which means “Son of my sorrow.” smh..

God help me to be more grateful for what I DO have and not worry so much about what I DON'T. Many things are in GOD's timing and somethings we'll NEVER have, we just have to learn to accept that. Also, life and death is in the power of the tongue! We always hear this motto 'GET RICH OR DIE TRYING', but if that's our only focus we'll never enjoy what we have. The real RICHES, in my opinion, are how RICH your life is [God, love, family, friends, self-awareness, freedom of expression, etc]. But MANY TIMES we are only focused on material things, FAME, and whatever else satisfies our flesh [not just speaking sexually]. If we ever get to that point, we'll still never be fully satisfied, we'll more than likely be too tired to enjoy it. On top of that, we'll miss out on the more important things and even DIE before we even get to enjoy the material goods or whatever else we've been sweating so hard to get...sooooo...

With that all being said, we have to be CONTENT with what we already have and when God blesses us with more, be thankful but PLEASE don't be an ungrateful, greedy, never satisfied MESS..HELP ME GOD!

.. sorry just had to get that off my chest!


How did it help you see yourself? [the WORD is definitely a MIRROR..thank you, JESUS!]

Moment of Silence...

for Emmett Till

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http://verne.trendyindie.com

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thank you! *muah*

Reminder...

My Black is

BEAUTIFUL

Life Lessons: Learning to SWIM!

I remember when I was younger, I wanted to learn to swim. I was always fond of the water, but there was really no one to teach me. Momma had a fear of the water. She had a near death experience and almost drowned when she was 14 years old. Now here I am 12 years old and she's almost scared to death to let me go too far. Daddy was always SOMEWHERE and when he DID come around, he'd try to throw my baby brother in the pool because that's how his daddy 'taught' him and his older brother....it was a matter or 'survival' for them. SINK OR SWIM. Military stuff! ha..

This made me even MORE determined. I promised myself and my Daddy that once I learned to swim, I'd teach my brother, so the next time Daddy came around with his shenanigans, he'd have a surprise for him. Also, help Momma get over her fear.

So I set aside my fears and started heading out to the pool. I assured Momma she could trust me to watch my little brother and my surroundings. I started going almost everyday because I wanted this so bad, even conquered a few insecurities and things that were said 'to' me. Gaining the courage to wear a bathing-suit was chore for me, mainly because I was always teased about my weight. I didn't have an athletic body [and still don't], but I was healthy and full of energy. I was even told I didn't need to be in the sun too long because I was already 'dark enough'. But I was determined to push past the distractions and use the negativity to fuel my passion.

I started out slow, first playing in the water to get used to how it reacted to my movements and how my body responded in return. I watched others around me and even asked for pointers. Then I started mentally timing myself to see how long I could hold my breath before wanting to come up for air. I got over the fear of allowing myself to float, face-down and face-up. This was quite a challenge for me, and yes I got scared a few times. Especially with that feeling of my feet leaving the floor of the pool and allowing the water to hold me. Then I learned to kick my feet and move along. All while holding on to the edge of course. And when I finally let go, I was scared but I kept trying. I kept learning, gaining confidence in my ability to do this and the promise I made to myself, so I kept trying until I perfected it. Before I knew it, I was making laps around the pool, then venturing off into the deep end..SUCCESS. Alot of this was done, after trial and error, while there were very few people around. Because I didn't need anyone rough-housing with me or draw TOO MUCH attention to myself than there already was. Finally, trying my hand at diving and it didn't go over TOO WELL... so I left that to the 'pros'. But if you needed a cannon-baller on your team during SPLASH WARS..I was the ONE! lol

After I was comfortable enough to handle swimming on my own, not only did I teach my baby brother how to swim and help my Momma get over her fear of the water. She learned how to swim as well with my guidance and encouragement. I taught two or more other people how to swim as well. But there was this one person that was very difficult. No matter what I tried to do or say to get them to feel comfortable, to allow me to teach them and for them to trust me, nothing worked so we just left it alone. Swimming along and helping others as they sat on the edge. I was somewhat upset about it and felt that I'd lost somehow but I just had to give it up and think 'Maybe ONE DAY they'll learn and I'm here when they're ready'. I thought about how well I've done so far and was still willing to teach others.

My hair was pretty much DESTROYED from the chlorine and the sun and I was many shades darker but I surpassed my goal. I smiled from ear to ear and had much more energy! I had even lost a few pounds. My spirit burned even BRIGHTER than before.

As these thoughts came rushing to my mind today, I became overwhelmed by how much wisdom I had even as a child. Knowing that bettering myself was not only for MY benefit but I always thought of others. Very similar to how I am today. Even learning that I may help many, there are still SOME that can't be helped or will not allow it.

What a beautiful memory..and it's teaching me a very valuable lesson as I reminisce. I need that determination back. I didn't depend on ANYONE to help me get to my goal. I didn't need anyone's approval, only permission from who mattered and who was responsible for my well-being. All I knew is that I wanted to do it and it was going to get done!

I ignored things that were being said around me and I kept going, I kept trying and when I was successful and helping others, most of the talking ceased. Sure, some of these people were WAY BETTER and had the knowledge and the tools to be of assistance but did nothing. And when I was sharing what I learned, watching those willing to learn excel ME in their abilities, all the spectators could do was watch in amazement and secret admiration. Also, they made me want to excel what I've learned, so the teacher became the student in many cases. Not once did the on-lookers ever think to take what they've seen to help others. I can't fault them tho. Maybe they don't know how to help anyone else, maybe they don't have the patience or the heart to. Maybe it never crossed their minds.


This all goes hand-in-hand with how life is today. Allow me to share some pointers with you that I see by looking back at this experience:

*Don't let other people's fears and experiences stop you from doing what's in your heart to do [of course without being insensitive]. Once you've achieved your goals, you can help them as well if they're willing and some will be once they've seen your success.

*Don't blame who's not around nor allow their absence to hinder you from getting your feet wet [forgive if you have to. like for instance if they were SUPPOSED to be there].

*Don't allow negativity to distract your mind and eye from your goals [even if it's coming from you].

*Don't let your inexperience keep you from wanting to learn and help others with the knowledge you've gained [start over on somethings if you have to].

*Don't allow your insecurities to get the best of you. This is what you're called to do [don't make mountains out of molehills and be CONFIDENT in that gift GOD has placed in you. NO ONE can take that away!].

*Don't wait on others to step in to do what you NOW are equipped to do. You may not even be the BEST in others eyes, but if it is beneficial to others and they are better because of it, you've done YOUR part [and know what you've done for others will be rewarded, but don't make that your reason for doing things].

*Know when to ask for help, advice, pointers, etc [learn what works for you and tweak it when necessary. show your appreciation and keep it moving].

*Know that you have to dedicate time and sacrifice some things to make it work [but be safe, listen to your body, know when to take a break. that doesn't mean you QUIT].

*Be wise in watching your surroundings and know when the timing is right [somethings are best done in SECRET].

*Let your actions, achievements, and accomplishments speak for you [have the RIGHT motives and PLEASE don't be cocky. who wants to smell that?].

*Now after you've done all of this and obtained this knowledge, what are you going to do with it? [YEAH YOU!]


Let me know how and IF this is helpful to you! BE BLESSED!

And the CUTENESS continues!

Here's the OTHER PAIR! These were just SO FUN to make and they turned out AWESOME! :) My customer LOVES them, so that made me more than happy!

For more designs please check out my website: http://verne.trendyindie.com/


Other ways to show your support:

fb fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Verne-Couture/152796204769135
twitter: http://twitter.com/yaGURL_vFLY

If a picture is worth a THOUSAND WORDS..

I'mma let this one speak for itself.

smh.. *walks away*

Check out Trendy Indie

I've been using this site for years now for selling my products. It's really reasonable to sign up as a SELLER without having to feel stuck. It's a nice little cozy spot! Just click on the LINK BELOW.

>>>>>>>>>> Referral link <<<<<<<<<<

Also, if you know someone who makes unique creations and would benefit from this link, send it to them as well and don't forget to tell them about my store as well!

http://verne.trendyindie.com/

Cutest Pair of earrings EVER! CUPPYCAKE Earrings!!

*Screams and giggles*

I honestly think these are THE CUTEST pair of earrings I've ever done! This was a collaborative effort to get this pair accomplished. The next pair I'll upload soon is just as cute! Unfortunately, the camera does this NO JUSTICE!

IN THE MEAN TIME, Check these out::

store: http://verne.trendyindie.com/
fb fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Verne-Couture/152796204769135
twitter: http://twitter.com/yaGURL_vFLY

Hit me up and let me know what you think! BLESS!

Tribute:: Mona WHO?!

Mona WHO?! (aka WE ARE BEAUTIFUL!)

Mona Lisa frowns with envy and shamefully bows her head, humbling herself in the sight of these beautiful queens. They should be an artist's greatest inspiration. In other words, Mona ain't got NOTHIN' on them.

God started His wheel turning as He molded them from clay and the heavens must've been silent in awe. The angels gasp at the sight of their faces, each one a remarkable beauty. Inspired by the earth's color palette, each hue custom-blended by His loving hand, we are as the midnight sky or the sandy beaches. Features so distinct, only a TRUE artist can appreciate and recognize the passion, dedication, effortless skill, and craftsmanship of the MAKER.

Who says we aren't beautiful? From the crowns of our kinky or smoothe heads, to the soles of our fat or narrow feet, we ARE beautiful. Sculpted from God's imagination, an image of Himself. In all His beauty, all His glory. We are each individual, showing the diversity of His character. His greatest MASTERpieces, not to be on display in some stuffy museum, but showcased for the world to see. The sun (SON) as our spotlight and the world as our platform, we don't HAVE to demand attention when it's freely given.....because...

WE
ARE
BEAUTIFUL!!!

---------------------------------
written by a.strayhan aka buttafly kisses. copyright 2003

To see more of my writings, please go to: http://buttaflybaby.blogspot.com/

Nightmares...

My past keeps coming back to haunt me... i had a flashback of something traumatic that happened to me when i was younger. i thought i was over it, but as this event played in my head all i could do was cry, then i began to freeze up and fear started to creep back in..

seems like everytime i try to take this step in what seems like the right direction, my past drags me back in, i feel like it happened yesterday. and i seem to be set back further than where i was. killing my progress and my esteem. what i feel about myself or thought i felt about myself seems like a lie, because it's gotten me NOWHERE no matter how hard i pushed! is this my life? or am i in some kinda twilight zone?! can i get out of this place?! is there another ME somewhere, the REAL me..and i'm just a carbon copy or a memory of my former self stuck here in some crazy 3-dimension or a MATRIX? the REAL ME must be having a BALL on an island, drinking little fruity drinks with the colorful umbrellas and getting a massage by a handsome gentleman with a gorgeous accent and smile!

on the FLIPSIDE..i'm having all of these WONDERFUL dreams about my friends, some of which have come to reality in a short amount of time. while i'm still waiting on somethings...MANY THINGS..smh..and it's going on YEARS now! maybe i only have myself to blame for that one!

i'm tried of these bad memories! they need to die! so i'm going to be a on a mission from now on! everything that comes up will get squashed and destroyed! kill or be killed!

seems like i have a fight on my hands! like the whole world is against me! but if GOD is on my side, does anything else matter?

I'm going to DIG through this site..

I found it by accident!

http://www.temptalia.com/illamasqua-muse-nail-varnish-review-photos-swatches

seems like they have a bit of EVERYTHING!

Makeup product reviews
Swatches
How to mix foundations
Dupe list! ha! that sounds excited!

I'm going to go through this site and let ya all know what i find..

Incase you're wondering..

Verne' is pronounced VER-NAYE [thus the accent mark :)]

The origin..It's my middle name.

thank you! come again! lol

Oh yeah..while I'm in a 'writing' mood, I guess I'll give you the run down on how VERNE' COUTURE started.

I've always been a creative person. Even as a little girl I would make up stories, win drawing competitions, and got recognition for my writing skills. All of which I need to brush up on..shame on me, huh? I've always had a passion for music. Mom said I could sing before I could talk.

I remember my paternal grandmother showing me how to work a sewing machine at 8 or 9, also watched her sketch designs for my wardrobe, it was a blessing in disguise for me. I also remember sitting in my room with boxes full of beads and I would spend HOURS creating jewelry for friends and family in my early teens. I still have beads my maternal grandmother gave me and use them to create pieces to this very day.

I have a dream to create a PLUS SIZE clothing line. That will come, I believe it. I'm saving my sketches and ideas. For now I'm starting with jewelry and accessories and I want to thank EVERYONE for their support so far!

So how did I come up with the name VERNE' COUTURE?

I was talking with a dear friend of mine, she's always been the type of person that causes me to think on another level and in a different way. We were telling our ideas and dreams since we both love fashion. I started out saying how I wanted to create my own clothing line along with my own beauty and fragrances as well. And was trying to come up with a name. So she suggested I call it Verne'. I was quite embarrassed because I was always teased about my middle name. Remember that guy EARNEST? He did all of those crazy movies and had this homie named VERN.. He was always like 'KNOW WHAT I MEANNNNN, VERN??' And so just imagine how this irked my nerves when all the kids imitated this! ha! BUT, since my paternal granmother blessed me with that middle name, I became more comfortable with it. And now it just sticks!

Later, around 2005, new in my natural journey [natural since '03], I started again with creating. Earrings and hair accessories. I got frustrated that I didn't find anything that I liked so I started painting and that was pretty much all she wrote!

I'm planning my next step and I'll be needing a little help from you all. I'll be creating a survey/questionnaire soon to assist me with my creation process so please be on the look out!

Also, I'll be adding more to this website as far as creativity is concerned..

I'm creating new pieces right now, but PLEASE check my STORE if you haven't!

http://verne.trendyindie.c​om/

I've been back to writing a lil bit..

check my other blog out. it will be more directed towards, music, poetry, thoughts..etc

[click the link below]

http://buttaflybaby.blogspot.com/

i'll be back to this blog with new goodness soon! :)

bless!