INK ON THE SHEETS

Rest in Peace....Nikki

2009-09-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

I am saddened to hear about the passing of a sister that I was introduced to through blogging and later became friends with through Facebook. She was a great person who had the ability to draw people to her with her unique and humorous writing style. Although, many of us never met Nikki in person, we loved her dearly. A little while back Nikki became ill with a rare immune disease that attacked her lungs. I can recall her telling me that it was genetic and others in her family had been dealing with the same illness for years so who was she to be upset about having it too.

The one thing I can remember is how Nikki never complained and she kept her sense of humor even while she was in pain. In fact, it was pretty much a guaranteed laugh whenever she posted a status on her Facebook page. We often chatted online and I would joke with Nikki about a potential book where she could give accounts of her dating experiences which she often shared with her friends in such a hilarious way. We also shared some serious conversations where we talked about God, faith, and it being no mistake that we crossed paths. Several times Nikki said she thanked God for people like me that he had placed in her life to help her grow her faith. I will forever be thankful for having the opportunity to meet this sister virtually through divine order and having chances to speak into her life and pray for her.

My sadness for a sister I met through the airwaves has taught me so much in just a matter of hours. Love is universal and it transcends time and space. Whenever we are blessed to make connections with people that is God’s gift of love that is not to be taken for granted. In fact, he commands us to “…Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35). I must admit, it was easy to love Nikki because she was lovable, but from this day forward I will challenge myself to love those who are not as lovable, those who do not put a smile on my face, as Nikki did. I am taking this challenge in honor of her but most importantly in obedience to God and as a commitment to be a disciple that others can see the love of God through. By the way, I love you!

The Road to Sedona

2009-04-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of going to Arizona for a few days. This trip was blessed on so many levels but one of my most memorable blessings was traveling to a city called Sedona, which is about two hours from Phoenix. As we drove, I admired God’s beautiful craftsmanship. I felt like I was in a movie, because I literally had a song playing in my head like a soundtrack throughout our journey.

My favorite artist is India Arie, and she has a song where she starts off singing about a man who was on the radio saying he doesn’t believe in God. In this song, India goes on to talk about an experience she had in another country where she saw beautiful fish in the deep blue sea and not understanding how that man could not believe that God is real. That song was my soundtrack on my road trip to Sedona because I was thinking that same thing as I drove next to mountains that only God could have sculpted. I was surrounded by those huge and beautiful mountains and it felt so surreal. At one point, found myself feeling like I was Moses having a mountain top experience with God. Even the green grass and the blue skies ministered to my soul.

We live in such a hateful world surrounded by hard times, so often we forget to value the little things that God has given us. How often do we give thanks to God for the trees that give oxygen so we can breathe or the grass that feeds the animals that nourish our bodies? How many times have we praised him for the sun that brightens our day or for the rain that waters that green grass outside of our homes? Going to Arizona for a weekend gave me so much more appreciation for God and the life that he has given me. When I get weary in these difficult economic times and in this sinful world, I will forever remember those beautiful mountains and the city of Sedona. It was a reminder to me that if God can take a formless and empty earth then fill it with light, water, animals, and people what can’t He do for any situation in my life?

Family, let us continue to pray for those lost souls who live in, and consume from God’s wonderful creations without giving him recognition for it. Most of all family, let us forever acknowledge and thank God for being the Creator of heaven and earth for “in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). He is definitely worthy of all honor and praise.

"Sipping on Gin & Juice"

2009-02-23T06:04:00.000-08:00

My name is Keisha and I was a teenage alcoholic. As a teenager my friends and I would walk the streets sipping on some of the same stuff the local “wino” had hidden inside his brown paper bag. Some of my high school classmates would nod their heads in agreement if I told you that I used to drink with my peers in the back of the class during 1st or 2nd period. There were plenty of days that I stumbled into my daddy’s house and quickly went to the bathroom to brush away the aroma of liquor. Of course, when I went off to college, I packed that habit up with me.

When I was in college there was this popular saying that many of my friends and I would exclaim after purchasing a gallon of Gin. In our foolishness, we would lift that gallon up in the air or take a shot of that Gin and say “Gin makes you sin!” I call us foolish because we actually had hopes of getting drunk and then getting into some sinful acts later that evening. I have literally had my share of shots, sinful acts, and hangovers. In fact, I’ve had enough to last a lifetime. I thank God that I don’t carry that habit with me in a brown paper bag like I used to back in the day.

Well this weekend, I decided to play the grown folk game and have me some wine and Margaritas with a few ladies as we celebrated my friend’s birthday. Since it’s easy to fall back into your old ways if you slip, I had one too many drinks. While the glass was in my hand, I quickly forgot that my body cannot hold as much liquor as it did years ago. Let me just pause and say, “I praise God that I can’t hold liquor like I used to.” The next morning I woke up feeling like I had jumped into a time machine and was that young lady laying in my dorm room crying out “I ain’t never drinking again!” The only difference is I am not that same fool I used to be, so what was I thinking while I was drinking? More importantly, why go back to an old habit that’s been broken?

I enjoyed being in the company of those wonderful ladies, but sipping with them was not worth the compromise or the consequence. I was sick for over 24 hours after that. However, while I was on my back in bed aching from head to toe, I had plenty of time to remember how far the Lord has brought me. Furthermore, I was able to recognize that I don’t want to go back down that memory lane again! Family, I have experienced being “drunk in the spirit” and no alcoholic beverage compares to that feeling. Therefore, I’m drinking the living waters at the next party and if you see me with anything other than that, please tell me “do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).

Slippery Slope-2009 Adventure #9

2009-02-15T20:55:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I went skiing for the first time and though I can’t say that I’m headed to the Winter Olympics, I can say I received a mighty revelation that day. I was a bit disappointed because I was the first one out of the group of seven to turn in my ski shoes due to unbearable pain in my right knee. I decided to throw back on my boots and go watch my friends and; cousin have fun in the snow. I must admit, my disappointment faded a bit when I saw one of my friends on the ground at the bottom of a small slope. Shortly after my friend fell, she joined me on the sidelines.

When the one hour lesson ended we had lunch, and four of the remaining five must have drank a cup of “courage juice” because they decided to take the ski lift to the top of a huge hill. One of my other friends joined the cheerleading group as she refused to take that journey with them. Patiently the three of us waited at the bottom of the hill with cameras in hand. We waited and waited, but they didn’t come down. That’s when the revelation started to form. We were at the bottom of the hill laughing because we realized that they had got all the way up to the top and looked down with fear. We joked about them being up there trying to figure out who would be the first one to come tumbling down. All of a sudden, we see our girl skiing just like the instructor had taught her, but she must have missed the lesson on avoiding a fall. She fell, got back up, fell again, and then stayed down. Next thing we know, one of the males came down like a knight in shining armor on a white ski to rescue the damsel in distress. A few minutes later I saw my cousin on her way down then I literally saw her down! She too had taken the one way ticket to the top of the hill without thinking about the slippery slope she would have to come down. Watching this at the bottom was hilarious and scary at the same time. I wanted to go run up the hill and help them, but that would have caused a comedy show in itself.

My first ski trip was a memorable one, as it was fun and spiritually enlightening. The lesson learned was sometimes we have family and friends that we see walking into a situation that is more than they can handle or leading them into a series of sins. Are we to just stand by the sidelines and cheer them on as they head for danger? Sistah, it is our duty to rebuke a slippery slope type situation before they tumble down! Jesus told the disciples, “if your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him.” (Luke 17:3) Let us be bold and talk to them about the situation in love rebuking the devil and his attempts. In addition, let us get on our knees and pray for them no matter how unbearable the pain.

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2009-02-05T05:33:00.000-08:00

Hey Family,

Have you ever had a craving for something and it just wouldn’t go away? This weekend I was craving some fried catfish. I was unable to get the fish on Friday night because I didn’t get home from work until close to midnight and of course that was too late to eat. The next day my craving was even more intense, so I decided to get some fish when I left the Saturday night church service. I hate to admit this, and I know it’s going to sound greedy, but I thought about that catfish a few times while I was at church. Well, I guess that’s not so bad since Jesus did feed thousands of people with two fish and five loaves of bread! After service I called in my order and was told that the credit card machine was broken. This is where the dilemma began. I did not have cash, the credit card machine was down, my stomach was growling, my craving was more intense, the restaurant was a few miles up on the same street as my church, my bank was no where near me, and I felt it would be way too greedy to pay a $2 fee just to get cash from any cash machine so I could feed my face!

As I drove I was trying to figure out who I could call to borrow $10 from until the next day. I couldn’t think of anyone in the area that I would or could call. All of a sudden my daddy popped into my head, and it just so happens that he lives a few blocks away from the restaurant. I immediately started calling him, because as you know fulfilling a strong craving warrants a 911 call. I called his house phone and I didn’t get an answer, so I called the cell phone. I was getting more desperate the closer I got to my fish, so I called the cell phone again. Praise the Lord, because my daddy answered the second time around. I said “Daddy, I need a favor. I ordered some fish but I don’t have cash and their credit card machine is down. Do you have $10 I can come get.” Notice I didn’t say borrow, because my daddy would never let me borrow money. He said, “Come get it.” I knocked on the door and he opened his door and gave me a 20 dollar bill and then went back into his house. I got back in my car smiling because not only would I be able to get my fish, but I had an extra $10 in my pocket!

Family, we all have cravings in our lifetime, things in our hearts that we want and need. If my earthly daddy could bless me abundantly in the situation above, imagine what our Heavenly Father can do. I’m here to say “ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7) God is our daddy and we’re his children; He wants to bless us, so ask and receive! You never know, you might even get a double blessing!!!!

Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs

P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

I Miss Performing

2009-01-29T13:38:00.000-08:00

I got music…I’m ready to explode
Lyrics…in my mind…like a heavy load
I can't hold…back…what’s in me…
A song….bout drop…at the beat…
Do you feel me
It’s like verbs…bringing action…to words…
Do you hear me
I got a…. song… to sing…
I got a… poem… to pen….
I got a…. word…to bring
I gotta…break loose….
Spit a little bit of fire…mixed with… truth
Let …a bit of this…pinned up…soul …loose
Before I… backfire….
Blockage causing…. a riot… in my head…for this writer
It’s been days…weeks…and months….
Since I’ve been this pumped
Making paper…..like the ground…I got trash….to dump
My vocals…….stuck……in my throat…I got ….a lump….
Tears in my eyes….forming…
I miss a mic…in my hand…
I miss....performing....

If the shoe fits..........

2009-01-28T06:09:00.000-08:00

This is a sure sign that I need to take a break from the world and get my house and my temple in order! Typically, I come home from work around bedtime and I’m worn out so I kick my shoes off at the door. The next morning before the sun even rises, I’m back out the door …and the cycle repeats itself day in and day out! I’m off Saturday and I will not be bothered with the outside world. I am staying in the house ALL DAY…so I can clean up, study for my final, and rejuvenate my mind, body, and soul!!!!

p.s. If you see me outside on Saturday, I better have on house-shoes! Well, maybe not but the point is I better not be outside !!!

Lions and Tigers and Bears!!!

2009-01-23T05:22:00.000-08:00

My girl Jazmine Sullivan sings of not being scared of lions, tigers, and bears but being scared of love…..Listening to that song for the 100th time made me realize that I have some fears of my own. I had to admit that one of my fears is love. Don’t get me wrong, I desire love and I know that love is on it’s way, but I am so guilty of lacing up my shoes and running from love as if it were a lion, tiger, or bear chasing after me.

As I have grown in my relationship with God and my faith in him, I have grown to be open to love. I am learning that if I truly trust God with all of my heart and lean not on my own understanding, my heart is protected by God regardless of the hurt, disappointment, and pain that may come with love. I have come to understand that even when love hurts me, it is building me.

I’ve admitted that love is one of my fears and I’ll admit two more so that they can be acknowledged and prayed over, because there is no fear in Christ Jesus: Never having children is a fear and not living to my full potential is a fear. Do you have any fears?

I had a million thoughts #17

2009-01-21T05:44:00.001-08:00

Sometimes you have to let something go
in order to hold on to what... IS important!!!!

Battlefield of the mind: My Confession

2009-01-12T07:20:00.000-08:00

I mentioned a while back that I was beginning to become tempted by my past. Since that last letter the “tempter” has come and taken residency in my mind, making it a battlefield in which my flesh and spirit are at constant war. At times I have felt defeated by the enemy as I would daydream thoughts that were by no means pleasing to our Father in heaven. My thoughts drifted to memories and then memories converted into words and those words led to weakness. Although my state of fragility did not cause me to act, I have sinned in my thoughts alone. Therefore, I have repented to God, sought out the prayer warriors to help me fight this battle, and I openly confess to you that I am in warfare.

During our spiritual journey, we have come to learn that temptation comes in many ways. We as humans can be tempted by food, men, women, drugs, alcohol, money, and material things just to name a few. The enemy is very crafty and in his attempts to kill, steal, and destroy us, he combats strategically and unfairly. His aim is to win our souls back and get the victory that in our lives.

After prayer, repentance, and more prayer, I was led to the 4th chapter of the book of Matthew, in which Jesus was led by the Spirit to the desert to be tempted by the devil. It clearly illustrated Satan’s attempts to tempt our Lord. However, the part that stood out the most for me was how Jesus used the power of words to send Satan back to the pit of hell. Jesus said to him, “Away from me Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” (Matthew 4:10). Reading that scripture helped me understand that temptation shall come but victory is mine if I choose to use the power of words but must importantly THE WORD.

Family, when we are under spiritual attack, which we will experience from time to time. Remember to come to the battle with your sword, which is the word. Family, remember that you have the power to win the battle by telling the devil to flee and putting him back under your feet. We have choices in this life, so will we choose to worship and serve Satan or God. Perhaps, a few years ago I would have taken the easy route and lived in my flesh, but I’ve come too far to go back now…..I choose to worship the Lord our God, and serve him and him only…..so away from me Satan!

Happy New Year...Blessings for You

2009-01-06T10:21:00.000-08:00

As we eagerly begin a new year, I’d like to take the time to encourage us to willingly live in obedience to God in 2009. Let us walk into each day with a spirit of tenacity, choosing
to grow in Christ through faith on a daily basis. Let us seek God’s word and His will for our lives, with hunger, thirsting for the streams of living waters to flow through us every moment that we breathe. Let us strive to gain Godly wisdom and guidance through consistent communication and fellowship with our Lord. Let us move forward in faith as we step in love and take strides toward forgiveness each day of this blessed year.

Family, I pray that we will grow spiritually in leaps and bounds in 2009. I pray that God will close doors that hinder our growth and open those that will develop our potential. I pray that He will cover us with His blood and protect us with His love from the top of our heads to the bottom of our feet. I pray that He will enlarge our territories and provide avenues for us to be of Godly influence to the lost. I pray that He will give us the desires of our hearts. I pray that He will give us clear vision, wisdom, and discernment in all areas of our lives. I pray that He will bless our seeds and bless the wombs of those who have yet to have seeds implanted. I pray goodness and health. I pray prosperity not just as it relates to wealth, but in all areas of our lives. I pray peace, joy, and love in the name of Jesus I pray. Amen!

As I close this letter, I’d like to say that, “A bird can never be free inside of a cage that is locked!” Therefore, unlock your full potential through obedience to God and open your heart to receive the abundant blessings that God has in store for you in 2009!

“I will bless them and the places surrounding my hill.
I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing. (Ezekiel 34:26)

Significant Memories for 2008!

2008-12-30T22:49:00.000-08:00

As we close out another year, I would like to document 8 things that were significant to me in 2008. This list is not in order of importance however each one of them were very important to my personal and spiritual growth.

1. Being obedient to God and leaving Mars Hill Baptist Church to attend New Life Covenant Ministries on what I call blind and crazy faith.

2. Driving with Jesus on my first solo road trip to visit my family in Missouri. I was so proud of myself because I’ve always been the passenger while my daddy drove that trip. Plus I usually can’t drive an hour without getting sleepy, so 8 hours by myself was a major accomplishment.

3. Being the spiritual coach for my sistah-girl Tolanda as she gave birth to her miracle from God. This strengthened my faith because we spent over a year prior to her getting married and having a baby, praying for our future husbands and children. I witnessed God deliver on His promises to my sistah and I know my turn is next.

4. Enrolling in the School of Ministry at New Life Covenant Ministries. When God sent me to this church he told me his was sending me off to college. I had no idea that he was literally sending me there for school. He orchestrated me getting in the class as well as the class being paid in full for the first year.

5. Becoming a blogger. I have found an avenue that allows me to freely express myself. I can be the silly me, the serious me, the thought-provoking me, and down right real me which includes the God in me. The bonus is that I have met some wonderful people who have become like family to me.

6. Attending “Encounter” which is the first of three women’s retreats through New Life Covenant Ministries. I truly encountered God at this retreat and in fact this is where he met me and told me to leave Mars Hill on faith and head over to New Life Covenant Ministries in Humboldt Park.

7. Writing my first full sermon. God woke me up in the middle of the night to write this sermon and it cannot be shared until the day it was written for comes to pass. Whenever it comes, the message is already written from God through me.

8. Not falling out of my celibacy. It has been and will continue to be a battle of the mind, but my heart is determined to wait on he who WILL BE sent by God to love me like Christ loves the church. MY HUSBAND

The Gift Who Keeps on Giving

2008-12-23T16:04:00.000-08:00

The Gift…. given… by God….He keeps… on giving
And it’s… through… his ….love....grace…and mercy…
That we’re ….still …living…in this world…. so full… of greed…
I tell you…in this season…there’s …such a… …need …
To …recognize…. God’s seed….for ….who He is…
So while the… kids are ….unwrapping… presents…..
Why don’t you tell them ….what He did
He…. cried …for you and me….
He …died …..for you and me….
He …conquered death …rose again
Matter of fact…He was born… to set us …free
And through… His life….and His death…and His life…we live
So while ….we’re…. making…. purchases…
Let’s…. think about …what we can give…. our… Savior
Who… labors in love…like …no… other
Who’s been better to us …than …a brother
He’s a friend….
Protects us …from our foes…
Loves us …with our… flaws
Opens up…. doors
Makes a way...out of …..no way
When the going… gets…tuff …He…stays
He is …the truth….a gift…who keeps… on giving
So as long…as you’ve ….got breath…keep… on… giving him
His… proper…. praise….and while you’re wrapping gifts this season
Don’t forget…that Christmas is…His ….birthday!

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-12-22T05:56:00.000-08:00

I mentioned a few months ago about wanting a new cellular phone and God telling me to curve my desire for a new phone at that time. Well since then I have been blessed with the phone that I wanted and let me just say, “I love it!” Of course, in the way one who likes electronic gadgets would love a new toy. Anyway, one of my favorite features on the phone is the audible GPS (Global Positioning System). I frequently use the feature to get me from point A to point B. To be honest, I have a hard time comprehending how the system works, but I know that it works!

The other day, I had to laugh at myself because I was having a conversation with “that lady” on my audible GPS who systematically tells me “Drive 1 mile to _blank_ and then turn left on _blank_.” I don’t know who that lady is and how she knows how to get me where I need to be, but I sure do listen to her. The other day I put in the address to where I was headed and the GPS took me there using a route I was not familiar with. However, I trusted her and I got there in record time. Yet once I got to a familiar area, I had the nerve to question her directions. She said “Turn right at Central” and I spoke aloud “Naw, I’ll keep straight since I know where I’m going” then I thought about it and said “Well, I’ll go your way.” That was the moment I laughed for having a conversation with an automatic system. As I was turning right on Central, I heard these words “you can trust a GPS and follow it’s directions to a final destination, but you can’t trust me and follow my directions to your destiny?”

Family, how many times have we listened to the directions of others before seeking directions from the Lord? How many times have we relied on our own understanding when in a familiar place instead of seeking the Lord for new revelation regarding that place we are in? How many times have we had the nerve to question the Lord when he instructs us to do something, say something or even go somewhere? I’ll have to frantically raise my hand in the air like the eager kid in the front of the class and shout out loud “Amen” to all three of those questions. I can surely testify that I have been guilty of them all on numerous occasions. God told the people of Israel in (Isaiah 48:17) “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go” So since we too are his children, isn’t it fair to say he’ll do the same for us? He was their GPS back then and he is still our GPS today, so let us follow the Holy One for he knows what he has in store for us and the best way for us to go in order to get there!

I have admitted that I do not comprehend how the GPS works, but that I’m willing follow its directions. Now I boldly declare that I do not know how God is working things out for my behalf. However, I do believe that He is working it out, so I will follow HIM all the way to the end of the road!! I encourage you to jump on board and let Him drive you to your destiny as well!

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
www.lylas4life.org
www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life

P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

SOUL-KITTEN

2008-12-12T15:21:00.000-08:00

I got soul.....like ....old school singers...
That's why rhymes... flow from my mouth ..
And lyrics.... drip .....from my fingers..
I pen albums .....like writers blog ..this ain't ...no hobby...
Got so much... soul.......Motown shoulda ...hired.... me...

I can't stop the rhythm.....when the beat hits me
Inners ....my spirit...knocks me into a zone..
Like Tyson... just hit me.....nine rounds of free-styling....
The crowds... still hype...they with me
Til the bell rings....then I flip my flow........slow it down...a lil bit
for those who slow....let em know... I GOT SOUL...........kitten

I had a million thoughts #16

2008-12-11T08:46:00.001-08:00

What keeps us apart is distance………………………....
That truly does not exist.............
Because our hearts are connected regardless………………
Yet we are miles apart......................................................
So I think of you still..................................
Fact is ..........................................................I always will

TAGGED.....I'm IT!

2008-12-07T20:48:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged... by my sistah Mica!

Blog Interrogation Rules

A.)Pass this on to 7 people:
Poca
Darius Williams
Ticia
Ms Behaving
Mizrepresent
Kin'shar
The Dreamy One

B.)Answer the following questions using only one word.

where is your cell phone? Sofa

where is your significant other? Nonexistant

what's your hair color? Multiple

Your mother? Sleep

your father? Grumpy

your favorite thing? Chillin

your dream last night? Busy

your dream/goal? Legacy

the room you're in? Living

your hobby? Blogging

your fear? God

where do you want to be in 6 years? Blessed

where were you last night? Work

what you're not? Mother

one of your wish list items? Children

where you grew up? Chicago

the last thing you did? Hair

what are you wearing? Sweats

your tv? Loud

your pet? None

your computer? Big

your mood? Peaceful

missing someone? Kinda

your car? Blue

something you're not wearing? Socks

favorite store? Walmart

your summer? Blessed

love someone? Daily

your favorite color? Red

when is the last time you laughed? Earlier

last time you cried? Yesterday

are you a b*tch? Nope

favorite position? lol

favorite past time? Blogging

are you a hater or a lover? lover

are you genuine or fake? Genuine

any vices? Yep

pro life or wire hanger? Life

mccain or obama? Obam

pro plastic or natural? What?

dream job? Ministry

Semi Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-26T07:51:00.000-08:00

CLOSE to GOD

even when the WORLD feels distant

The Homeless Fed Me!

2008-11-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to feed about 40 homeless men and women with the single's ministry at my church. I have always talked about doing this and God gave me a chance to serve those who are homeless on 11/23/2008. My role was to be a “server” for my table, by making sure they had their food, drinks, dessert and whatever else they needed while with us. I only ended up with one person sitting at my table, but I helped serve two other tables as well.

I could feel the presence of the Lord in the place. I was truly blessed to be there and inspired by the spirit of perseverance that lives inside of our special guest. One of the ministries at my church goes out 3 times a week to feed the homeless on Wacker Drive in Chicago and after last night I am challenged to join in with feeding the homeless……because while we fed them they fed us!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2008-11-19T12:06:00.000-08:00

Class Dismissed!

2008-11-18T07:47:00.000-08:00

I completed my first semester in the school of ministry and I thank God because I walked away from that class with more knowledge about studying the bible and an “A”. I’m still super excited about being in school and the upcoming semesters. However, I can tell from day one that the next class ain’t no joke! No wonder I was led to suggest a weekly prayer circle with my group before class starts, because we’re gonna need it with semester #2…..Old Testament Survey. We kicked the prayer circle off yesterday for the first day of 2nd semester and everyone thought it was a great idea and truly needed.

I plan to be an “A” student in the word and truly be able to share the good news with clarity, knowledge, and wisdom so it’s time to activate some serious study hours. Plus I’ve got to uphold my new title as the “Preaching Blogger” which was given to me by my dear friend Darius T Williams. Yall check out his food blog at www.everydaycookin.blogspot.com

Hit & Still Running ...cont'

2008-11-15T12:17:00.000-08:00

I have to thank God because HE and only HE made a way for me to get that $500 deductible that I needed to get my car fixed. Wow does God move fast! My car was hit while parked on Monday night, it was in the shop on Tuesday morning, Wednesday evening I was GIVEN $200 cash by my stepdad, all day Thursday I had a peace of mind that it would be taken care of, Friday morning I got a call that my car was ready and $500 was needed to pick it up, and by Friday afternoon I was rolling again! Can’t nobody tell me God ain’t good.

I even learned a lesson from the situation. Always follow my first mind (that being the Holy Spirit) and trust my gift of discernment. I prayed for it, so use it! See when I got out the car the Holy Spirit told me not to park there. I even paused for a few seconds before walking away from my car, but only decided to push the mirror back instead of moving the car to a different location. When I came back and noticed the hit and run damage it was right near the mirror. If I had not pushed the side mirror in, it would have been knocked off. Some may think a $500 deductible was an expense fee for the lesson I learned from the hit and run, but I say it was worth every penny to be able to trust God, witness Him work it out even after I was disobedient, and be able to share this praise report with others…….To God be the glory.....

Hit & Still Running!

2008-11-12T22:37:00.000-08:00

Monday night somebody hit my car while it was parked and continued on to their destination without looking back! So now my new pretty blue Malibu SS is in the shop getting repaired while I come up with $500 whooping dollars! ......................................................................

But on a good note that same night I took my final exam for my Understanding the Bible class and let's just say "PROPER PREPARATION PREVENTS POOR PERFORMANCE." I know for a fact I got at least 95% on that final exam. We start our second semester next Monday and we'll be taking a class called Old Testament Survey.............

Oh yeah I officially gave up my love affair with the Treo 755P and I'm in the process of falling in love with my new red Black Berry Curve. I'll blame brother 12Kyle for my soon to be addiction to the Curve and that dang on Twitter ................

While my Malibu is in the shop I'm rolling in a black Cobalt...........not so fancy but it gets me from point A to B.....Know what I mean? My car got hit but I'm still running just like the cat that hit and ran on Monday night. God bless whoever did it........

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-11-10T03:39:00.000-08:00

Hello Family,

Greetings from LYLAS 4 Life Ministries, "A modern day ministry, delivering the word of God through technology to unite, empower, and uplift sistahs in Christ." In addition to your weekly TextScriptz, I send you God's love, peace, and blessings. May God bless you and your family today and always.

As you know, a historic event occurred in the United States of America this past week, as the First African-American, Barack Obama was elected to serve as the President for the next four years. Many voices cried out for change and many people came out to vote for the person who they felt would represent the change that we need as a nation. Prior to the election I noticed change happening on a local, or should I say a more personal level. Many people in my life including myself have had change occur in their lives. These changes have included newly formed marriages, pregnancies, the births of new children, relocating from one residency to another, the blending of families, a switch in job titles and responsibilities, enrolling in school, lay-offs, break-ups, diagnosis of cancer, healing of cancer, bankruptcy, switching churches, and starting up new businesses.

For many of the changes I mentioned above there was prayer that preceded it. However, I guarantee you that most of the prayer requests did not specifically ask for the major changes that came with that answered prayer. I was talking to a good friend a few weeks ago, who has been praying for change in her life as it refers to her housing situation. At the time of our conversation she was facing a lay-off or possible relocation in order to keep her job. I tried to encourage my sistah-girl to keep the faith and to remember that God is still in control and knows what is best for us. As we were talking, it hit me, “we ask for change, but we are not willing to adapt when God sets us up for the change.” Think about it, asking for change but wanting things to stay the same is a major contradiction. The reality is with change comes the need for adaptation.

As we know from years of experience, change is inevitable. The change in our body as we grow year after year is a great example of the inevitable change that I am speaking about. The bible tells us that there is a time for everything, so Family I just come today encouraging us to be open to the change that is to come in the days ahead. Let us EMBRACE CHANGE for there is “a time to embrace and a time to refrain” (Ecclesiastes 3:5b). Now is the time to adapt to change and openly accept it.

Loving Like a Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
www.lylas4life.org
www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life

P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

God ain't done with me yet!

2008-11-07T08:29:00.000-08:00

So last week I got paid and my check was SHORT! I called finance to see what happened and when I could expect my money (which I already knew in my mind better be in the next 24 hours). Anyway, due to a new system, and the complexity of my two different job titles and how I get paid for them (which I’ve been doing for over a year, so people should have a clue by now) he could not figure something out and said they would pay me on the next check.……………PAUSE…….HOLD UP….STOP THE PRESSES……AND WAIT A MINUTE…..I lost my cool AND all the Christian values I’ve been learning over the past few years. My faith got shut down and the gangster rose up. I demanded that I get a call within the next few hours telling me that my check was ready for me to come pick it up. I called my boss and told her the situation and let her know I’m flexible on many things, but when it comes to my money that I worked hard for…. “I AIN’T FLEXIBLE”…..Long story short I picked the check up that day and I had to laugh at myself on the way because God ain’t done with me yet!

P.S. I forgot to mention my check was $535 short? Can you blame me for losing myself in the moment? LOL

History was made....a Spiritual Thing!

2008-11-05T03:52:00.000-08:00

Last night on November 4, 2008 history was made as the first black President was elected. This is truly an awesome thing to experience, but for me it’s more than a racial thing it’s a spiritual thing. In my 34 years of life I have never seen so many people of different races and generations joined together for a common cause. I have never seen so many people fasting and praying for the election of a candidate and so many people determined to make a difference! I witnessed the audacity of HOPE and for that alone this day and this year will forever be historical to me.

GOD'S WILL BE DONE......HISTORY WAS MADE……
CHANGE SHALL COME…… IT'S A SPIRITUAL THING...
(08' new beginnings)

Lord please anoint President Obama’s head with oil and fill his cup so that it runs over with Knowledge….Wisdom….Courage….Strength…Leadership….Humility….and more….Please cover him and his family with the Blood of Jesus and protect them with your love. We thank you for this opportunity to witness your power and your glory first hand. Father we love you and we adore you and it’s in Jesus name that we pray….AMEN!

The Vote is in!

2008-10-30T14:41:00.000-07:00

I voted this mornning...
I must say I'm glad I did it early......
Arrived 8:00am and was done around 9:45am................
A long wait....impatient crowd....a few line cutters....
But it's all good because THE VOTE IS IN!!!!
A season for CHANGE is near.....Obama 2008

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (Textscriptz Instant Replay)

2008-10-27T05:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Family,

I pray for discipline as it relates to all areas of our lives.

Recently a sister asked me “What is one thing that you still struggle with?” It really didn’t take much thought to answer that question because this has been a long time struggle for me. It’s a struggle that in order to conquer requires discipline and newly formed habits. Well, actually most struggles require the same methods to defeat them. Anyway, I was honest in my response and I told her that I struggle with emotional eating. Truth to be told, I think this emotional eating thing is a family curse and from my observations it has affected at least four generations. However, I boldly declare that it will no longer be in counting!

They say the first step is admitting you have a problem. I have a guy friend who will proudly admit that he too is an emotional eater. In fact, he goes on to say, “I eat when I’m happy. I eat when I’m sad. I eat when I’m bored. I eat when I’m mad.” I have a few other friends who may not admit to being emotional eaters, but they will certainly admit that they can eat the roof off of a candy house! I mean let’s keep it real, food is good but all food ain’t good for us. Especially when we overindulge!

I’m personally praying for strength to defeat the Munchie Man that lives inside my stomach. I’m praying for the will-power to run away from the refrigerator, out the door, and down the street to the local track! I’m praying that the Lord will not only help me with my physical eating habits but also my spiritual consumption. In fact, Lord please teach me how to pass up a honey bun and grab hold of your word, because “how sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalms 119:103). Family, please stand in agreement with me, at least 5 feet away from the refrigerator that I will take heed to the need to always feed my spirit and not excessively feed my body!

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
http://www.lylas4life.org/
www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life

P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

Birds of a Feather......

2008-10-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

Be careful who you surround yourself with….

They just might determine who you will become…….

I had a million thoughts #15

2008-10-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

If we take the easy road to avoid challenges....

can success follow us?

will we reach our full potential??

where will we be in the end???

Tru-Tru Train

2008-10-16T21:52:00.000-07:00

Step right up...the tru-tru train is leaving town......soon.

You have ONE free ticket to ask me a question and I'll tell you the tru-truth!

A Child of God is Born

2008-10-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

Early this morning I had the pleasure of witnessing one of my best friends (my sistah 4 life), Tolanda give birth to a beautiful baby girl. Witnessing this birth was special for several reasons. One being that it is an absolute miracle to see God bring forth a new life. Second, this was the second baby I’ve seen born in less than a year. Thirdly, it was further confirmation that God truly does answer prayers.

Just less than two years ago, my sistah and I prayed together almost daily. We would faithfully stand in agreement with each other as we took our prayer request to the Lord. We both were requesting to grow in Christ, be strong women of God, to become wives, to have a family, to be debt free, and to walk in complete victory. Well, over the past year I have witnessed God answering our prayers, but I have been particularly in awe with the things God has been doing in Tolanda’s life.

In less than a year, Tolanda was reunited with her first love and they got married, they moved into a house in the area she wanted to live in, they have a blended family, and NOW God has given my sistah the daughter that we used to thank him in advance for. God is so good and faithful to his word!

At this time, I am rejoicing in the blessings that are manifesting in my sistah’s life, fully believing that my prayers will be answered as well in due season! Meanwhile, I’ve got another baby to love on and Tee Tee can’t wait to get to know our first official baby girl of LYLAS. We can’t wait to teach Morgan Serenity the word of God and raise her up to be the prayer warrior God has called her to be!

Simple Like That!

2008-10-09T21:51:00.000-07:00

Today I twisted up a few nappy roots in the front of my head, took a 2 hour power nap and then went to get my eyebrows waxed. It’s funny how something simple like that can make me feel like a brand new woman....

What are some of the simple things in life that make you feel brand new?

UPDATE on: TOO many teachers for the Chalkboard

2008-10-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

Thank God class was much better last night. The teacher implemented two new rules which are pretty basic and what you would think is common sense. Raise your hand before speaking and make your point in 1 minute or less. He only had to remind one of the other “teachers” one time to stick to the rules. However, when we were going over a group assignment one of the extra “teachers” took that as an opportunity for an unwarranted debate. My real teacher did a great job of shutting that down especially since that was not the purpose of the group assignment. Please Lord will you continue to bring order to the class and humble each of us as students.

We had a midterm and guess what your girl got. I had 23 out of 25 questions right on the midterm! That’s great right? How about we were told that it won’t count towards our grade????? I’ll just look at it like this way, now we know his testing style which can help us study for the final exam. All and all I’m still happy to be digging deeper into the word of God and proud to be a student in a classroom again.

Does Mama Really Know Best?

2008-10-04T09:18:00.001-07:00

I asked my mother to tell me 34 things that she knows about me. So basically this is what my mother thinks of me after knowing me for 34 years

A good friend

Giving

Talented

Likes to eat (greedy)

A big tipper

Likes to be the boss

Ambitious

Faithful

Loyal

Doesn’t like clothes that much (dressing up)

Moody

Spoiled

Needs love

Wants to get married

Wants to have a son

Wants to preach

Wants to teach

Wants a exercise plan to lose weight

Disrespectful to me (thinks she’s the mother)

Great with children

Strong woman

Sensitive

Family oriented

Willing to help (will go the extra mile)

Likes a challenge

Likes to go to church

Likes to read the word of God

Is getting great understanding of the word of God

Doesn’t care for dogs and cats

Allergic to cats

Anxious

Shows favoritism

Drives like a bat out of hell

Head strong (stubborn)

So what do you think, does Mama really know best?

I had a million thoughts #14

2008-10-03T05:09:00.000-07:00

If one of the other sperm had been a little bit faster

you wouldn't be you and I wouldn't be me

TOO many teachers for the Chalkboard

2008-09-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

I am writing this post to vent and before I go any further I know that the bible says a fool vents in anger, so I pray right now that instead of foolishly venting, I respectfully and honestly express how I am feeling about class. I am so excited to be in the school of ministry program; I mean words cannot even express the joy I feel about this journey. I am very grateful that some of my family and friends are committed to helping me pay for the program. I am super geeked about learning more about the word of God and growing in my knowledge of Christ. I love the small group setting and the wonderful people I am in class with and I look forward to getting to know each of them better as we experience these next two years of higher learning in Christ together. BUT I am extremely annoyed with the few extra “teachers” in the class. I mean too many teachers with one chalkboard creates too much chaos and my patience at there yet. Plus it takes away from others learning the weekly lessons and preparing for the exams that are to come.

I understand we have questions, but must the teacher be interrupted to get the questions answered? Do you always have to answer your own questions with an answer? Do you have to recite the information in unison with the teacher? Do we have to hear a random thought for over 2 minutes the multiple times that you randomly share them? Perhaps we can organize some study groups and you can even lead those, but can you please let the teacher teach the class? I mean we are paying to learn not to have group bible studies and hear your opinions on every topic. I left class with a headache last night and feeling anxious because we have a midterm next week, but we wasted so much time on matters that were not very pressing to the majority of the group. I just pray for strength because right now I just ain’t able to deal with too many teachers and one chalkboard!!

Looking Great At 68!

2008-09-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

This is why Anna Mae
didn't wanna eat the cake!

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-09-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

Praises be to God, I started a 2-year school of ministry program offered through my church last Monday night! I felt like a giddy teenager getting ready for her first date as I prepared for my first day of higher learning in Christ! When I got off of work that day I had 4 hours before I would have to be at school. That being more than enough time since it would have only taken me 30 minutes to get there. Well, I stopped to look at something with my mother and while doing so, I started looking for me as well. I truly believe the problems I encountered on this journey started with this situation. See, God made a way for me to go with my mother, but he certainly did not say “While you’re there Keisha, go ahead and pick one out for you too.” However, my eyes got bigger than my purpose and my flesh slowed me up a bit. Now at this point, I still had 2 hours before class would start, so I headed off to school. Then…I encountered unbelievable traffic. I decide to take a few short cuts that usually work, but to my surprise there was traffic everywhere! See, the storms from the previous weekend became floods that created a whole lot of detours, which ultimately resulted in a major delay for me! I wasted so much time and gas that day because of the detours.

At this point, I am as hurt as that giddy teenager would be if her first date stood her up. Now I’m about to tell you something family, and I pray you won’t tell nobody cause I ain’t no punk. I cried like a baby in the car because it was clear that I would be late for my first day of school. It literally took conversation over the phone with three of my sistah-girls and some prayer to slap me back into reality! Of course, the master manipulator the devil, tried to play on my vulnerability and say “Just give up. You’ll never make it on time. How dare you go to class late!” But the devil would have to get under my feet while I pushed it to the metal, because I had to get my seat in the class God prepared me to be in for a time such as this. After tons of detours, hours wasted, and several suggested routes to take, I ended up calling another friend who sent me back the way I started to hop on the expressway.

Thank you Jesus because although I was 2 ½ hours late for class, he did not allow me to give up and I made it!!!! Even though I didn’t get the seat I would have grabbed in the front of the class, my spot is secure and I’ll be back ON TIME this week! I know you might be thinking what if another detour happens, well I’ve already said this to God “Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long” (Psalms 25:4-5). Which basically translates to “Lawd, who is my Savior, will you please tell me which street to take so that I can get to class on time to dig deeper into your word? Amen!

Here’s the lesson I learned while in that car fighting to get to school.
1. Stay on the course that God has placed you on.
2. The easy way isn’t always the best way.
3. When detours come your way don’t give up.
4. Pray for new direction.
5. Sometimes you have to go opposite of everyone else to get to your destiny.
6. God will always put you back on the right path if you seek him.

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
http://www.lylas4life.org/

I GOT THE POWER!!!

2008-09-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

P- Passion for Christ

O- Operating in faith

W-Willingness to serve

E- Energy to conquer

R- Reasons to live

Your turn my people. What's your source of power?

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-09-18T21:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Victorious One,

The other day my sistah-girl called me to pick up my nephew from daycare because she had overslept. I certainly had no problem with that because I love being around that little boy and teaching him to call on the name of Jesus. It’s so funny, because he knows how to say, “thank you Jesus” and he’s just turning two today. Anyway, while we waited for his mom to meet us outside my class, I decided to get him a snack. In order to do so I had to turn my car upside down to shake a few coins out of it. I was able to find about 2 quarters, 1 nickel, and 3 pennies. We both walked to the store excited that we’d be able to get some “chips” as he would say. However, to my disappointment the potato chips I’ve known to be 25₵ for as long as I could remember were now 35₵ or 3 for $1.00.

This discovery wasn’t adding up for me and I had to sacrifice my chips to ensure that my nephew got his chips. I left out of the store thinking, “wow, times are hard when you can’t get 2 bags of 25₵ chips because the price has went up and your 50 cents just won’t do anymore!” Well, family has to share so I taught my nephew that lesson as we sat and ate the bag of chips together and recited, “thank you Jesus” and “Sonto” which is praise God in Spanish.

Later that evening when I was leaving class, I looked at my gas tank and noticed that it was quickly approaching “E” and that I was not as close to home as I would like to be in that situation. Right then, I got a call from another sistah-girl who wanted me to meet her for dinner near my home. I let her know my funds were low, and she basically said “come and let us break bread.” As I was parking I got this joy inside of me and I spoke out loud to myself, “My funds may be low, my gas tank might be on empty, payday might be a few days ahead, but I’m riding full of faith!” Once I met up with my sistah-girl, I shared that with her and even told her that I was expecting a financial blessing the next day because I know God is my provider. Sure enough I got text in the morning from another sistah-girl saying that she was putting $40 in my bank account. I wish my nephew was here with me right now so we could say in unison, “thank you Jesus!” because she only owed my $10.

Family, I know the economy can make us nervous, and that having a pocket full of lint, zero dollars in our checking accounts, and an empty tank of gas can make us worried, however, as believers, “we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Let that fear turn to joy and ride knowing that God shall provide. Can I get you to say, “thank you Jesus,” since my nephew isn’t here to say it with me? We might as well praise God in advance for financial blessings since we stand in faith knowing and believing that it is coming.

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
www.lylas4life.org
www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life
P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

Picture This

2008-09-17T21:13:00.000-07:00

Keisha

(1997-age 23)

"I don't wanna be....

who I used to be"

Certified Honest Blogger: And the award goes to....

2008-09-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

I was awarded the Certified Honest Blogger Award by my lil blog sistah the flyyest ….

Here are the rules to follow:
1.) When you receive the prize you must write a post showing it, together with the name of who has given it to you, and link them back 2.) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs (or even more) that you find brilliant in their content or design.3.) Show their names and links and leave them a comment informing they were prized with ‘Honest Weblog’ 4.) Show a picture of those who awarded you and those you give the prize (optional).5.) And then we pass it on!

10 totally honest things about me:

TEN: I was a lustful being for over 30 years of my life and now I am practicing celibacy until I get married. I have fallen many times but my desire to please God outweighs my desire to please my sexual cravings, so I get back up again and pray for strength to stay standing. Lord, please continue to keep my on this celibacy path so that I can be pure for my future husband on our honeymoon.

NINE: I believe that the man who will win my heart will be one who speaks the word of God to me. I used to love hazel eyes, muscles, and strong legs. Now I find myself attracted to men who have their eyes on Jesus, are secure and strong in Christ, and stand on faith. Lord, I trust that you will grant me the desires of my heart for it is your will for me to have a husband who follows your commands and loves me like Christ loves the church.

EIGHT: I used to be very insecure about my weight. I still have my days here and there, but I know I am beautiful inside and out. I also, know that I can lose weight with discipline and better eating and exercise habits. Lord, please teach me to be disciplined so that I will honor you with my temple and live a long and healthy life.

SEVEN: There is an old lady who lives inside of me. I love playing old ladies and even when I’m not acting she comes out of me. Some of my friends and even the teens I work with think of me as the grandma. Lord, thank you for wisdom beyond my age. I also thank you in advance that I will one day be a biological grandmother to many children.

SIX: I purposely don’t have a favorite bloggers list posted on my page, because I want everyone who stops by my blog to know they are favored by me, but most importantly by God. I use bloglines.com to keep up with my blog family’s latest posts. Lord, please bless everyone of my brothers and sisters who have stopped by my blog in the past, who still stop by, and even those who have yet to run across Ink on the Sheets.

FIVE: I am a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and I was the captain of my line back in 1993. As much as I love my sorors I rarely go to any group functions, because I’m an “old lady”. However, whenever I do go out I’m always so happy to be apart of such a fine group of women. Also, I don’t get into debates with other women who belong to Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, or Zeta Phi Beta because I feel we are all equally blessed to have a sisterhood that was designed just for us. I got love for any sistah rather she’s apart of my organization or not. I feel pink and green, red and white, and blue and white are just as lovely together as my sorority colors of blue and gold. Lord, please continue to grow each and every one of the 4 sororities that I just named. Lead women with serving hearts to each of those organizations so that the legacy may live on.

FOUR: Speaking of red, I truly think I’m cute when I have on red. If don’t nobody else tell me, I’ll look in the mirror and say “your pretty in red”. I never really had a favorite color, but red has become one of them since it reminds me of the blood of Jesus. God thank you so much for loving the world that you gave your only begotten son, so that whoever believes in him would not perish but have eternal life.

THREE: I keep joking about ending up with a “Christian Puerto Rican husband” especially since I now go to a church that is 65% Puerto Rican. Truth of the matter is my first crush in grammar school was a Puerto Rican and I never forgot about that boy. People think I’m Spanish half the time anyway, so it’ll work! God I am open to whoever you have for me. Please help me to receive him in whatever package you send him to me in. I trust you with my heart and I lean not on my own understanding.

TWO: I’m mixed with shy, out-going, and silly. That’s a strange combination, but I can be very shy until I know someone and then my outgoing and silly sides come out. However, there are times where I can be very out-going and a person would swear on a stack of bibles that I’m lying about having a shy side. God let me always be comfortable in the skin I am in and let me represent you with boldness.

ONE: I love God very much. I’m like crazy in love with him. I don’t even understand how I spent so many years not open to his presence, voice, guidance and love. It’s my love for God that is making me be a better me each day. I strive to make my Daddy God proud of me and when I mess up I appreciate his loving discipline. He is my everything and if I had nothing I’d be complete just knowing that He loves me unconditionally and that he always wants what is best for me. God, thank you so much for being my everything and for always forgiving me and guiding me. You are truly awesome and I adore you more than words can express, so please continue to teach me to let my actions speak louder than words.

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-09-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

I pray Jesus fills your mind and soul today and everyday.

I remember back in the day my friends and I would love to play games, particularly games that required someone chasing the rest of the group. We would all bunch up together and put our feet in the inner circle while one person would do a clever rhyme to eliminate everyone. The purpose of the clever rhyme was to randomly choose the one who would be “it” which was always the last one standing. I can recall that the person responsible for eliminating the players from the circle would always find a way to ensure that they were not the last man standing. Well, at least I can recall that I rarely ended up being “it” when I was the “clever rhymer”. Anyway, games were fun back in those days, but life is real and I’m too old to still be playing “It”!

Sometimes in our immature or vulnerable state of mind, the devil chooses us to play games with. As the master manipulator of the mind, he takes any and all opportunities to keep us from maturing in Christ. That lying devil will trick us into believing that happiness remains on the playground that we once ran on. You know, the place where we would fornicate, lie, steal, cuss, fight, cheat; where we would down right fulfill our earthly nature. See he doesn’t want us to grow up, and realize that playing with him keeps us from truly living a liberated and abundant life.

Mr. Manipulator desires to eliminate us from the kingdom of God by reciting clever rhymes in our minds and unfruitful memories. However, family if we keep our minds focused on Jesus, the devil cannot make it his play yard. So therefore, “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). Let’s stop looking over the fence and keep looking up to the sky. Instead of chasing the group let’s chase Jesus, because IT gets no better than Him!

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
http://www.lylas4life.org/
http://www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life/

P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

Sailed to Heaven on a Plate

2008-09-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

Today I cruised on a Sunday afternoon to my friend’s house for a promised meal. Tacos are my absolute favorite dish, so he prepared tacos for me on a whole different level. I sat and watched as he quickly and passionately made lunch for us. To my surprise the fish tacos were quick and simple to make, but they tasted like no other taco I’ve ever had in my life. The fish was seasoned and finger licking good, but it was the flavored sour cream and pico de gallo that put the icing on cake so to speak!

The meal was great and the only regret that I have about this trip was I didn't save a bite for left overs.......Check him out below:

I had a million thoughts #11---#13

2008-09-05T10:30:00.000-07:00

I wonder what a man who treats strangers better than his child reaps? Why do some fathers sow the dead beat daddy seed? Where would the fatherless be without God?

I had a million thoughts #10

2008-08-31T22:09:00.001-07:00

I had a simple thought for a serious matter the other night. Marriage means that you are saying “I want to be with this person for the rest of my life” ……………………………..

I wonder why everyone doesn’t put serious thought behind such a serious statement before saying “I do”? And why some say “I do” to such a serious commitment, but don’t take that commitment serious????????????????????????????????????????????????

Fear Ain't Real....God is!

2008-08-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking about FEAR which is nothing but a word that means false evidence appearing real. However, that little four letter word sometimes has the power to keep people stagnant for years. Below are a few fears that exist in some people, but none of them are real!

Fear of Failing-Some fear failing so they avoid success only to live as a failure. FEAR AINT REAL!

Fear of Loneliness-Some fear being alone so they settle for less. FEAR AINT REAL!

Fear of Rejection-Some fear being rejected by others so they isolate themselves and live a lonely life. FEAR AINT REAL!

Fear of Love- Some fear love and so they close off their hearts and minds to love, which in turn often ends up hurting those around them who seek to love them. FEAR AINT REAL!

Now the only fear I do believe in and promote is the fear of the Lord. In fact Proverbs 9:10 says “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Perhaps if fear must exist in some of us, let’s channel that fear toward another four letter word, the LORD.

Fear of the Lord is Pure: (Psalms 19:9)
Fear of the Lord adds length to life: (Proverbs 10:27)
Fear of the Lord is a fountain of life: (Proverbs 14:27)
Fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom: (Proverb 15:33)

I pray that those who walk in fear will learn to fear the Lord and live abundantly knowing that there is no need to fear anything or anyone else for He (the Lord God) is with them (Isaiah 41:10). NOW THAT’S REAL!!!

Glory to God

2008-08-23T05:33:00.000-07:00

If God is with you.........
who can be against you?
If you know that God is for you.....
take a moment to give Him glory!

Feel free to give a shout out to God for all that He's done and all that He will do........Praise HIM!!

I had a million thoughts #9

2008-08-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

Why do the smallest people

need the entire bed???

My nephew already stole my heart...

now he has the nerves to take over my bed! lol

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-08-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

God used me to write this textscriptz on January 8, 2007. I pray that as I replay this message today, it will be as impactful as it was when it was originally written. God bless you.

There is a saying, “if you keep doing what you’ve been doing, you will keep getting what you’ve been getting.” In other words, the same actions equal to the same results. Now I don’t know about you, but I have been guilty of going in the same circle many times in my 32 years of life. On many occasions I have been too lost to comprehend the math; making 1 + 1 the wrong equation. The funny thing is one would think that I would have life to a science as many times as I have been tripped up by mistakes, people, and been hurt. I should have a doctorate in “Lifeology” with an emphasis in errors made.

The Webster’s dictionary defines wisdom as accumulated learning or good sense. I have a spoken word piece that is called F.U.L.L. and the moral of the story is that I finally understand life’s lessons so I am full. I wrote that piece before I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior, so in reality I had no clue what life’s lessons meant at that time because the bible says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10a). In essence, it was at the age of 30, that I actually enrolled in the school of wisdom, because it was at that time that I began to fear the Lord and want to follow his commands. Prior to being saved I was simply studying from the school of hard knocks. I have come to realize that it is only through God’s word that I can begin to truly understand life’s lessons. It is only through prayer and obedience that I can truly say that wisdom lives in me.

Friend, I encourage us to study God’s word diligently to avoid making the same mistakes over and over. Let us seek wisdom from our Maker while we accumulate knowledge from the Bible, which is the manual of life.

Loving You Like a Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
www.lylas4life.org

My Favorite F.A.V.O.R.I.T.E.S.

2008-08-11T18:33:00.000-07:00

my favorite Food= That would be tacos! I've even tried fish tacos and I must say it ain't that bad at all.....

my favorite Artist= For the past 6 years or so it's been India Arie and I can't wait to do a song with her.....

my favorite Vegetable= I'll take broccoli with or without cheese.....

my favorite Online website= http://www.lylas4life.org/ (check it out ladies).......

my favorite Recipe= My famous Al'La'Kei. Yall ain't ready for that. Yum Yum Yummy.....

my favorite Ice cream= Chocolate and it's a bonus if it doesn't cause gas.....

my favorite Topic= Hands down that would be the word of God!........

my favorite Exercise= Running to my house or car to avoid the summer heat......

my favorite Scripture= "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5).........

Yes I was extremely bored when I came up with this. Feel free to copy and use as a post if you get bored. I'd love to see what your favorites are...:)

I had a million thoughts #5, #6, #7, & #8

2008-08-09T12:48:00.000-07:00

Reciprocity (rec·i·proc·i·ty)= The give and take in any type of relationship.

I wonder why it’s so easy for many to take but so hard for them to give? Where's the give and take when it's time for the taker to give? Does the giver give because it's harder for them to take than it is to give? In this self fulfilling world, does reciprocity even live?

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-08-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

My blog brother 12Kyle http://the12planet.blogspot.com/ did a post about his son being excited about returning to school and I was reminded of this textscriptz I wrote on November 6, 2006. I hope you enjoy the instant replay. Peace & Blessings

As a young girl, the night before returning to school from summer or Christmas break was restless for a lack of better words. I would toss and turn until I was eventually wide awake. I never really figured out why this happened every year, because Lord knows I was not excited about wearing those ugly husky corduroy pants my mother ordered from J.C. Penney's for my winter wardrobe. And I most definitely was not excited about the turtle neck shirts to match. However, for some strange reason I was always so anxious for the first day of school. But anyway, what ever the reason was; it could never outweigh the anxiety that can come with being a grown up with bills to pay, children to raise, and a household to maintain.

Now by definition, anxious means earnestly wishing or uneasy, perhaps as a kid I was earnestly wishing I didn't have to wear those corduroys so I wouldn't look like the chunky kid in the colorful corduroys and the tight turtle neck! As a grown up I can find myself earnestly wishing my income was higher, my rent was lower, my car note was finish, my student loans didn't exist, my uilities were paid in full, and my food was plentiful. As a single sister over 30 I might even find myself anxious about "finding" a husband and no longer being the head of household. Can I get a witness?

Thank God the Lord is near and that rejoicing in him helps me to be easy instead of uneasy. My friend, today I encourage you by saying, "Do no be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God" (Philippians 4:6). If it's a better job you need, more money you want, a husband/wife you desire, children you wish to have, or a peace of mind you strive for just turn it over to God. Then watch the peace of God transcend all understanding. We have nothing to be anxious about because our Heavenly Father provides all and truth be told his grace if sufficent.

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS)

My First Instinct!!!!

2008-08-03T21:48:00.000-07:00

Who knew that contemplating upgrading my cell phone would teach me a life lesson that I would never forget. In an attempt to keep me as a customer my cellular company offered me more than half off for a new and exciting phone that has recently hit the market called the ‘Instinct’. I actually did research on the phone that included online searches, surveying via blog, and a personal customer review from my very own version of Google. That would be my younger cousin who gives me information as needed, I call her Moogle! Anyway, I found that the new phone would be an awesome addition to my many gadgets, but it really wasn’t conducive to my ministry and business needs. Therefore, I started looking at another option called the ‘Curve’ which I had played around with before and actually thought about getting. I contacted my cellular company and they were more than willing to honor the deal even if I went with the second choice.

Well, in the midst of my obsessive researching I neglected to consult with one very important person, the Lord. After days of driving myself crazy about which phone I would get and hearing various opinions on which phone would be a better fit, I finally realized that I was in a world of confusion over a PHONE for heaven sakes. Now keeping it real, deep down inside something initially told me that I shouldn’t get either phone, because I didn’t need it. However, you know how we do when we want something we don’t need. We attempt to drown out that voice telling us what is contrary to our desires and then often seem to find ourselves in a state of confusion because we didn’t listen to that voice. Finally, a word from the Holy Spirit “slapped me to my senses” by reminding me that God is not the author of confusion. Then I was reminded that I should be in the habit of praying about everything and all things. Therefore, I picked up the proverbial phone and called the Lord to give me clarity around this confusing phone situation. For he says, “call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know” (Jeremiah 33:3).

Well, within minutes I was given the answer that taught me both a life lesson and gave me instant peace. God said “Keisha, go with your first Instinct and Curve your appetite to spend unnecessarily.” I couldn’t do nothing but laugh because God also has a sense of humor! Immediately after those words came to me, the little kid in me that loves toys that come in the form of gadgets had to suck it up and be satisfied with the phone I currently have. See the Lord had answered the phone and I heard his voice. The lesson I learned was call on Jesus, call on his name for all things both big and small!

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR YOUR FEEDBACK ON THE PREVIOUS POST.....PERHAPS IT WILL COME IN HANDLE IN THE FUTURE...BUT FOR NOW I"ll BE USING MY TREO 755p

Survey Says????

2008-07-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

Okay so I have an opportunity to give up my TREO 755p and get the brand new Instinct phone or the Blackberry Curve through Sprint for a price you can’t beat with a bat. The problem is…..I’m torn between the two phones. Why is getting a new phone causing me so much confusion?

The Instinct does almost everything at the touch of our finger including an audible GPS system, but you can’t read or edit Word and Excel documents. (I want a GPS system….like having Word option, but I don’t use it anymore like I did before I got a laptop). Plus I love to text and I’m wondering if the touch keyboard will slow me down.

The Blackberry Curve has a lot of the same features my Treo has, but you can’t send or receive pictures through text (SPRINT CURVE ONLY) and I use that a lot. Also, there is a step by step GPS, but it’s not audible.

What’s a girl to do????? Do any of you have either phone or one similar to it? What do you like about your phone? What don’t you like about your phone? Help a Sistah out!

GETTING 2 KNOW ALL ABOUT ME

2008-07-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Ten random things about me...
1. I was a vegetarian for 2 years and recently surrendered to fried chicken.
2. I have acid reflux
3. I love music but I don’t listen to it that much
4. I write songs and poems
5. I absolutely love making music and vibing in the studio
6. Keisha loves the kids
7. Teaching kids is one of my favorite things to do
8. I worked in a child development Lab for 6 years at my university
9. When I went off to college I stayed gone for 8 years
10. I have a bachelor’s degree in Child Development and a Master’s degree in Family and Child Studies

Nine ways to win my heart...
9. Love God8. Love me like Christ loves the church
7. Be able to make music with me
6. Be supportive
5. Have good conversaton
4. Have vision and a plan
3. Keep my car clean
2. Take out the garbage without me asking
1. Take me for who I am

Eight things I want to do before I die...
8. Get married
7. Have children
6. Go on a cruise
5. Become a jogger
4. Become a grandmother
3. Take my friends and their immediate family on an all paid vacation
2. See my ministry become a nation wide ministry that changes lives
1. Live in my big house and design each room myself

Seven ways to annoy me...
7. Lie to me
6. Lay around on your pity couch
5. Move too slow
4. Act too slow
3. Talk too slow
2. Be disrespectful especially to older people
1. Be selfish

Six things I believe in...
6. GOD
5. Jesus
4. The Holy Spirit
3. Reciprocity
2. Consequences for actions
1. Heaven

Five things I am afraid of...
5. Walking out of God’s grace & favor
4. Never having children
3. Becoming stagnant
2. Not walking in my destiny
1. Not being a good leader

Four of my favorite things...
4. The Bible
3. My Treo (soon to be Blackberry Curve)
2. Taco
1. Frozen Fruit bars

Three things I do everyday...
3. Text
2. Eat
1. Sleep

Two things I wanna do right now...
2. Find some Rolaids
1. Take a nap

One person I wanna see right now....
1. My future husband (or at least a vision of him)

We Had A Ball

2008-07-25T16:13:00.001-07:00

This week I had the pleasure of spending three whole days with a great young man. We would spend the entire day in each other's company laughing and playing like little kids. He's such a pleasure to be around and I love to hear him call my name. Well, not when he says it about 15 times in 5.5 seconds. Yep, it was just the two of us and we had a ball!

Priis drove me around for 3 days like I was Miss Daisy! (Don't tell him I said this, but we're lucky we didn't get pulled over by the police because he doesn't drive that great).

We played the drums together! (Keep this between us, but I don't think he's ready for a full set of drums just yet).

We played Air Hockey together! (Don't tell him, but I LET him win).

We made a song together! (Please keep this on the down low, but I should be the lead vocalist in the band because he can't remember all the words just yet).

We went grocery shopping together! (Don't tell his mama I said this, but her baby knows how to budget shop better than her and I only had to teach him ONE time).

We ate "cake" together! (SHHH...it was really cornbread, but I didn't have the heart to tell him otherwise).

We played doctor together! (Don't say nothing, but I didn't have a headache I had a heartache, but I played along with him because he was so serious about healing Auntie Keisha)

BUT you can tell him that he made me feel much better over the past 3 days with that big smile of his......and tell him if I have a son, I'd be blessed to have one with half of his personality....That's my Prissy Pooh....one of my many babies who always keeps a smile on my face....

Then & Now...

2008-07-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

I was looking at one of my baby pictures and I was thinking about all of the potential that comes in the form of a child. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if my parents took the time to look into my eyes while I was a baby. Would they have been able to see me for who God created me to be? What if they would have listened attentively to the words that I spoke out of my mouth as a young child as opposed to devaluing my voice? How far would I have excelled if they would have recognized all the talents and gifts that God had deposited in me a long time ago?

Unfortunately, that was not the case. In fact, I don’t believe that they have taken the time to see me for who I am 34 years later. I often feel resentment from them when I long for their acceptance. However, I thank God that His will for my life came to pass regardless if my parents helped foster it or not. I thank God for seeing the best in me even when my own parents see the worse in me. I thank God for allowing me to use the gifts that He has stored in me. I thank God for who I was then and who I am now. I praise Him in advance for all that I will be in the future.

Our parents may overlook us sometimes and may not know all the potential we have, but God knew us before we were even created. He knows the plans that He has for our lives. Most importantly he loves us for who we are; flaws and all!

I had a million thoughts #4

2008-07-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

Let the drama cease….
Kill.... that beast…that lives…. inside... of me
I wanna be at peace….
Heal ....the wounds….that have scarred .....the... inner me
Set me free…
From the claws…of the enemy….trying ....to destroy…my victory
Let me Rest in Peace….
While..... I.... LIVE………..

Embrace the Cross

2008-07-14T05:34:00.000-07:00

“If you want to know the depth of God’s love, then you have to embrace the cross”.............

God loves us so much that he sacrificed his only son for our sins so that we may have eternal life. Jesus embraced his Father’s will as he painfully hung on the cross for us, brutally tortured and betrayed. Still he loved us enough to embrace death on that same cross so that we could live. His love was so unconditional that he even asked our Father in Heaven to forgive those who trespassed against him as he hung slowly dying on that cross. For Jesus understood that they lacked knowledge about who He was and why He was sent to earth as a Savior for them, you, and me. The precious blood of Jesus Christ, running down the sides of the cross made peace. It was so that we may be redeemed. He did it for us. He did it for grace. He did it for love.

Friends, can you imagine what this world would be if we would acknowledge the depth of God’s love by embracing the cross? What if we showed unconditional love to our fellow brother and sisters? How wonderful it would be if we were able to carry our cross daily without complaining but rather asking that God’s will be done. So great it would be if we could show forgiveness and pray for those who trespass against us, not once but time and time again. It would truly be amazing if we would sacrifice our desires for humankind. Imagine the victory that we would all walk in if we would embrace what happened on the cross that day at Calvary . Friends, God loved us then and he loves us still, his love is deeper than the deepest downward distance, never-ending. Let us embrace the cross. Let us remember what happened on the cross for us. Let us often praise God for giving His only begotten son for us and thank Jesus for willingly carrying the cross on our behalf. THAT’S LOVE!!!!!!!!

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16)

I had a million thoughts #3

2008-07-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

I attempt to give way…. to my thoughts…
Make them …transparent
When I’m awake…in bed….
And I toss…it’s apparent…
My mind…has something…heavy…
And I’m trying to bare it
But I’m consumed…
So when God whispers…I can’t… hear it
Makes me feel…a bit…overwhelmed…
All these thoughts……jammed…
Into a…. small space
Forces me…to tune out the world…
And get down …on my face
Pray for understanding…
And peace….to take place
Then He transforms…
The chaos…to tranquility…
With His grace…

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-07-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

Friends, I have often found myself wondering why it seems so difficult for many of us to forgive others when they have caused us wrong. In fact, some of us struggle with forgiveness even when the person has validated our hurt and has apologized for their wrong doing. Why is it that we hold grudges and harbor resentment for situations that have long passed?

My dad recently lost one of his sisters and after attending two funerals in one day, he realized that life is too short to be unforgiving. His epiphany is one that often comes with death. We lose a loved one or even hear of the loss of someone else’s loved one and we briefly acknowledge that tomorrow is not promised. We are all humans and therefore we are all sinful beings, so can’t we just show more mercy and learn to forgive others? It’s amazing how we can say and do so much in one day and then ask God to forgive us, which we should do. However, one mistake made by another and we not longer know the word forgiveness. In fact, it completely disappears from our vocabulary.

When I sit back and think about the life I have surrendered to God, I realize that this journey requires me to walk in Faith, Love, and Forgiveness. It is my faith in God that will allow me to love all of his children including those who offend me. It is my faith in God that shall give me the ability to forgive those who curse me, slander my name, disrespect me, and down right insult me. It is my faith in God that will allow me to trust him and not depend on my own comprehension. Therefore, as I seek him daily for forgiveness, let me seek daily to forgive. Jesus has said “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14).

Friends, let’s not wait for another death to recognize that life is short and that we have to keep striving to get it right while we are alive. Let us no longer carry that luggage filled with unforgiving hearts on our shoulders into a new day; let us forgive as God forgives us.

TOEtally Blessed

2008-06-25T21:18:00.000-07:00

I took a quick 24 hour vacation to visit my sistah-girl in Wisconsin last night. Today she decided to take me on a date as a late birthday present. We got dressed and headed off to get a pedicure. This was a right on time treat because me feet were in need of some love and care! (Toetally Blessed #1) After a short wait, we were taken to the pedicure chairs. They started the water for both of us and then had us soak our feet in the warm water. I was disappointed because my water wasn’t hot enough for me. I like it hot! Anyway, I whispered my disappointment to my sistah-girl but I didn’t want to complain since it was an unexpected treat. Someone started working on her feet, but I had to wait for about 10 minutes soaking in water that was getting cooler by the minute. Then my angel disguised as a Chinese woman with a mask on her face came to give my feet the treatment that they definitely needed. First thing she said was “is water okay?” I had to be honest and say “NO! It’s not hot enough!” Well, to my surprise she took the water out and made me a fresh batch that was nice and warm. I got to soak at least another 10 minutes in hotter water. (Toetally Blessed #2)

I never got this masked woman’s name but all I know is she spent way more time on my feet then the other girl did with my sistah’s feet. (Toetally Blessed #3) In fact, she showed my feet some tender loving care. I mean my toes were given some major TLC. She massaged my feet, rubbed my feet and legs down with lotion, and to top it all off she said, “you feet not too bad.” Then she took the neutral color I chose and brought it to life with a spray painted French pedicure. Now if I wasn’t TOEtally blessed today than I don’t know what to call it! I surely appreciated my sisterly date today which included toe jam cleaning, some popcorn and a movie!lol……..Ain’t God good yall????...

An Unappreciated Gift

2008-06-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

Can someone please help me understand how people are blessed with children and they don't like them? Tell me how you can have a child who is a good person not perfect person, but a good person and find fault in all they say and do? I cannot understand for the life of me why a parent would choose to stay on the battlefield with their child. Your child for Heaven sakes!

I swear before God that when I am blessed with children, I will love them unconditionally. I will be woman enough to admit when I am wrong. I will speak life and not death into them. I will respect them as a human being and talk to them as such. I will seek God about all matters that concern my children as well as parenting. I will work to be the best parent that I can be.

I DECLARE FITNESS: Report

2008-06-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

As of May 20-June 14, 2008 I have lost 7lbs. Not bad but could be better. However, slow & steady will win the race!

This month's goals:
-Increase water intake
-Stick to healthier eating plan
-Increase exercise

*I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Amen.

Picture This

2008-06-11T21:06:00.000-07:00

Which one best describes what this picture looks like?

A. School teacher on picture day

B. Woman taking a photo in the bathroom before a wedding

C. Someone headed to a business meeting

D. None of the above

I'm bored, can't think, but wanted to post...what can I say!!!

Damn....Damn.....Damn!!!!!!!

2008-06-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

These locs drive me crazy in the summer. My head sweats too much and I feel like I have a sweater on my top of my head in 90 degree weather!!!!! It's too much of a task to wash them as much as I would like in the summer time. But I have to cause I can't stand no sweaty smelling hair.....where the scissors at? Naw, I'll hold off on cutting them......gotta stick to the 'cutting locs plan'......oh well I guess I gotta wash my hair....retwist my locs...and be prepared to do it again in a few days cause my head sweats too much in the summer time!!!! Damn...Damn...Damn.....

The Encounter

2008-06-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had a life changing “encounter” with God. I had the opportunity to participate in a women’s retreat. I had no expectations and I wasn’t necessarily excited about it, I just knew that I was going. When we arrived to the camp ground I had no idea that those same grounds would be the place where God would come and speak directly to me. I was clueless that I would share quarters with 7 beautiful sistahs in Christ who would forever hold a special place in my heart. Nor did I realize that I would leave there a new woman headed to a new level in Christ.

For nearly a year I have been feeling weird for a lack of better words. I had verbally expressed my feelings to a few people, but I could not clearly explain it. I just knew I wasn’t feeling right. Although, I had this weird feeling I continued to send you weekly letters, I still prayed for people when they asked me to, I remained faithful to the two weekly LYLAS calls, I would minister through spoken word when requested, and I worked ministry here and there at my church. I basically continued to work for Jesus, but the passion and drive I once had was slowly fading away. Eventually I stopped serving at church all together. Still I could not explain my feelings. I prayed about it for a while and I thought I was listening to God for a response, but how could I be when I blocked him out with the internet, old habits, ungodly people, television, telephone, busy-ness, nothingness, and the chaos of the world? It was as if I was a deaf child with headphones on while playing a surround sound system on full blast in the background, there was no way I could hear my Daddy ‘God’ knocking at the door. Let alone His whispers in the late night hour.

This past weekend God sent me away to a place where I was required to shut off my phone the majority of the day, a place full of beautiful green grass. He sent me to a place where I could talk to him by the lake and see the leaves on the trees move to the rhythm of the wind. He sent me to a place where I gathered with a diverse group of women in a chapel where worship flowed freely and prophetic lessons were taught. A place where I would witness an abundance of women receive their breakthrough. Then to top it all off, he strategically placed me with 7 women, one of which was the group leader, who I was able to relate to and bond with so that we could experience this life changing event together. God is so good. At this place, God met me where I was at. We had an encounter and I was empowered to release resentments toward a few people who have hurt me through forgiveness. At this place God came and he gave me a word specific to my situation, some direction, new vision, more knowledge, better understanding, and much needed comfort. He came, He spoke, I heard, and I received. Thank you Jesus!

Friend, I know that the weird feeling I was having over the past year was not exclusive to me. There are others who understand how I was feeling. Ironically, the answer was always there, resting on the headboard of my bed. See I had been writing about a scripture a week through this ministry, but I was not reading His word and mediating on it as I should have been. I WAS OF THE WORLD IN A LOT OF WAYS AND NOT IN HIS WORD ALWAYS. Therefore, my passion and purpose was dwindling away as I drifted away from his word day by day! So God sent me away to hear him say “The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever” 1 John 2:17. While I was at this place He filled me back up and sent me back home brand new. I am no longer feeling weird but rather thirsty for his word again, with clearer vision, 7 new sisters, spiritually reconnected, and ready to be shifted from comfortable to uncomfortable all for his glory! Won’t He Do It!!!!

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (textscriptz instant replay)

2008-05-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

Peace My People,

Greetings from LYLAS 4 Life Ministries, "A modern day ministry, delivering the word of God through technology to unite, empower, and uplift sistahs in Christ." In addition to your weekly TextScriptz, I send you God's love, peace, and blessings. I pray that God will continue to lead you as you lead others.

I’ve heard it said many times that “if you don’t stand for something you will fall for anything.” Constantly being around teenagers reminds me of who I used to be, my growth, who brought me this far, and who will see me through the rest of this journey called life. All of my experiences so far allow me to have a better understanding of those youth that I am blessed to be surrounded by. Now that is not to say that my nerves don’t get worked a time or two by them, but when I look at the big picture I know that I too was once laying in a pit of nothingness until God picked me up and put my feet on solid ground.

Sometimes I look at “my babies” and I see a bit of who I used to be and even the current me in each one of them. I see the stubbornness, the confusion, the low self-esteem, the wanting to be loved, the running from love, the foolishness, the self doubt, the fear, the pain and the potential. I see them beneath that mask that they wear because I too wore a mask once upon a time not so long ago. Then that undeniable motherly instinct in me hurts for them for they know not what they do. Frustration and disappointment naturally come into play and then I start to vent in anger, mentally pack my bags, and feel like calling it quits. Then the Holy Spirit so lovingly reminds me of the Lord and how “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand” (Psalms 40:2). Therefore, surely he can and will do it for them. In the meantime, I am challenged to stand for what is right, for love, for forgiveness, for truth, and in faith; perhaps I may become the example for them of what God can do when you surrender to Him.

Friends, I pray that you too will be challenged to STAND and be the beacon of hope for those that God has assigned you to. May our light shine for all to see, they are watching.

Loving You Like A Sistah (LYLAS),
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
www.lylas4life.org
www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life

P.S.
GOT GOD? If you do not know God on a personal level this prayer can start your walk with him today…….
God, I am a sinner and I know I do not deserve your grace or mercy. Still, I trust you and I believe that you sent your son to earth and that he died and rose again for my sins. I thank you Lord for the personal gift of salvation. Amen.

Techno-Blues

2008-05-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Okay so I’m frustrated right now because I got a “new” phone yesterday to replace my older Treo 755p that was having issues. I took the phone to the store last week and while the technician was checking it out I was quietly saying a prayer that I would end up with a new phone. Sure enough they said “Ms. Isaacs we can’t fix it so we’re ordering you another one and you can pick it up next week.” You better believe I did a mental hallelujah praise dance (cause I really only dance in my head) and I verbally thanked the Lord for the hook up.

Anyway, before I went to pick up my phone on Friday morning I synced the information to my computer so that I could just bounce everything back to the new phone when I returned home. I pick up the new phone with a smile on my face, go home, quickly do the bouncing of information and go on with my day. Later I go to make a call and “WHAT THE…….!” the number is missing. I start strolling through the phone book and plenty of random numbers are GONE!!! So I tell myself “it’s okay Keisha, calm down and go check the phone book on the computer.” When I check it, the numbers are missing from there too. How did they disappear? I called one of the missing numbers from the contact list just the night before. So I call my cousin who has the same phone and she tells me to hurry to the store in case they haven’t reset my old phone. I do that and they still have it there. “Thank you Lord!” I say. The technician transfers my phone book to the new phone, but the same contacts are still missing. “WHAT THE…….!”

Some might say it’s no big deal and perhaps loosing numbers isn’t a big deal, but the problem is a lot of those numbers receive weekly scriptures from me through text. They actually look forward to the Monday inspiration and according to many it helps them get through the week. So now I’m hurt, but hopeful that I can get those numbers back somehow. Anyway, I get pass that situation and move on with mild disappointment, but great hope. Then all of a sudden the phone starts cutting on and off….on and off…on and off…on and off. “WHAT THE …..! I take the battery out to do a soft reset and it’s still acting crazy. Even now as I write this post many hours later the phone is still going crazy. “WHAT THE……!”

I’ve had techno-blues a few other times in the past few years with brand new computers, phones, and sound systems. I know it is a trick of the enemy to discourage me because God has assigned me to lead a ministry that uses technology to unite, empower, and uplift sistahs in Christ. But the devil is a liar! I’m headed to the store right now and I’m expecting to leave out of there as a satisfied customer and a highly favored saint. I’ll talk to yall later, the store opens in 30 minutes and Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs will be waiting at the door. Peace out!

I DECLARE FITNESS

2008-05-20T19:33:00.000-07:00

I’m putting this on front street and I hope and pray that whoever reads this will hold a sistah accountable. I am the biggest I have ever been in my life and enough is enough. I declare that emotional eating STOPS tonight. I declare that working out BEGINS today. I declare that building my temple with the strength of the Lord is a priority right NOW! In the name of Jesus I pray for discipline, strength, and will power to see these declarations through until the day I cease to live. AMEN!

Journal Pagez

2008-05-18T21:36:00.000-07:00

Dear God,

This week I have felt so weak and though I do not cry often my tears flowed heavily until the tissue could no longer absorb my pain. I wiped my face, but the residue of the hurt still remains. I am not weak in the sense that I want to indulge in things pleasing to my flesh, but still my flesh is weak. I am tired for the race becomes hard sometimes. Still I try so hard to keep running even when I am out of breath. Oh Father in Heaven you know that I breathe to please you for you know my heart’s desire. I choose you oh Lord over all the temptations of the world. I’d rather have you in the end even if I am destined to live alone.

I am calling out to you my Savior for I need you to help me continue this journey. Please strengthen me. Please fill my cup and anoint my head with oil so that I may be strengthened and continue to do the work that you have called me to do. Even with tears in my eyes, I believe in you. Even when I feel tired and weak, I believe in you. I know that you will comfort me. I know that your comfort outweighs the comfort that my family and friends attempt to give when they become aware that I am in need of comfort. In fact, you know my weaknesses and needs more than even I know them.

Father I patiently wait and I surrender to you, for your will be done in my life. I give you praises in advance. God, you are wonderfully awesome and I love you so much.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Loving You Always,
Keisha “Kitten” Isaacs
www. Lylas4life.org
www.myspace.com/lylas_4_life

I had a million thoughts #2

2008-05-14T16:39:00.000-07:00

I wonder and contemplate….
So I sit…
And let… the pen move….
Then it… starts… to motivate
Makes me….take a …..step…. forward….
Cause my current…. pace…is too slow…
I gotta speed it up a bit…I got….. places…to go
Things…. to do….and people….. to see…
I ain’t trying to leave this earth…legacy free…
My great… great… grands…will have opportunities…in their hands
From the sweat…that I….. bleed…
So let me ....step up…. my game…
And take my place…on the front line…
So I.... can lead

Blessings Galore at 34!!!!!!!

2008-05-12T14:53:00.000-07:00

“God is Resurrecting me at 33” was my birthday theme last year. That was a special age and theme for me because that is how old Jesus was when he died on the cross and rose again 3 days later. I truly feel like God did a new thing in me last year.

On May 10th I celebrated my birthday and I declared “BLESSINGS GALORE at 34!” I believe that this year God is going to shower me with so many blessings that it is going to blow my mind. I can’t wait to tell my testimony for God’s goodness, favor, grace, and mercy!

If you were to choose a theme for your upcoming birthday what would it be and why???

I had a million thoughts #1

2008-05-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

I lie in bed…
With thoughts of you…. on my mind
Spread open …..the pages…to discover…passion …each time
As you… unveil …the truth….
I let your words…penetrate my heart…I let loose
To become….captivated by your love….
It brings…. me through….
Relaxing…. my spirit……JESUS……
I’m calling out…….for you …………

Ask...And It Shall Be Given

2008-05-02T07:43:00.001-07:00

I am open for discussion. Will there be one?

I'm an open book. Here's your chance to ask me any question and I will answer it. So, go for it. Nothing is off limits. So, again, will there be one?

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (Textscriptz Instant Replay)

2008-04-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in life when we just have to be real with ourselves. We have to get the courage to look in the mirror and ask ourselves ‘who are we, really’. We have to pray for God to reveal us to us and even show us the hidden us that not even we can see.

It’s so easy to float through life pretending to be naïve about our true realities. Lying to not only others, but ourselves as we cover up the truth with makeup, clothes, smiles, and laughter. However, deep down inside we ache from the pain that lives within. We become weary from the heavy burden of concealed tears that we carry day after day.

Friends, the Lord spoke a word to me the other day. I share it with you today with hopes that you are released from any self deceit that is hindering your liberty through Christ. Lies are like shackles that bind you to deception, unlock the truth and experience freedom. (Keisha "Kitten" Isaacs)

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

UNSOLVED MYSTERY

2008-04-25T05:19:00.001-07:00

Last night my sistah-girl (transition: one of my best friends), her toddler, and I ate some Chinese food that has caused me to question the reason why I recently aborted my 2 year vegetarian kick. Yes, I gave up all meat for 2 whole years! Just in case you’re wondering I did not lose weight. As a matter of fact, I would get the craziest looks or comments when some would find out I didn’t eat meat. I won’t label those looks and comments as ignorance, but rather lack of knowledge which is just a nice way of saying IGNANT! But I’m going off on a tangent!

Anyway, we ordered orange chicken, shrimp fried rice, and chicken and broccoli. I don’t know what in the world we ate, but it sho wasn’t chicken!!!!!!!!Needless to say, I have lost my appetite for Chinese food and I am trying to get my mind back on the no meat thing after that mystery meat. YUCK!

I like to give myself challenges and I’ve always wanted to be a vegetarian (don’t know why, but I just did). So I made up my mind and I made it happen for 2 years straight. So many people would be like “no way could I give up meat”. It really wasn’t hard once I did it.

What is something that you think you’d never be able to give up? Why not?

2008-04-24T18:59:00.000-07:00

Life is but a drama unfolding………
Similar to bed sheets…..
Or is it just me?
Awakening to ruffled realities…
That were stained...with the past…...
From yesterday’s sweat...

RUN FORREST RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about motivation and how taxing it can be to constantly have to stimulate movement in someone. It’s especially draining when the person is claiming to want more, but seemingly does less than required. “I don’t wanna have to depend on nobody!” is what they say, but their actions indicate otherwise. How can you gain more when you put in minimal effort?

I work with teenagers and part of my job is to encourage them to attend school, find employment, take care of their hygiene, and keep the house clean. I often have to pray for strength because sometimes I find myself on the edge ready to explode. Why do I have to fight you to fight for yourself????

There is not going to be a “Jenny” around all the time, so we’ve got to learn how to encourage ourselves. Motivation comes from within my friend. Even the Little Red Caboose had to recognize that and when he did….HE DID!

No Bells & Whistles

2008-04-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Take me as I am ….complicated as it may be…
See the inner beauty....recognize the Queen in me….
Though there is no throne…the crown still fits….
Rather I wear it or not…on my dome it sits
I know who I am…no fashion can tell me….
In fact it compels me…not to conform…
Instead I choose to form….my own believes…
No bells and whistles are necessary for me….
I’m still royalty…rather heels or flats
Permed…locked….or naps…..
I be ...who I ...be….A Queen…
So take me as I am…complicated as it may be

SAY IT AGAIN SISTAH KITTEN (Textscriptz Instant Replay)

2008-04-21T07:28:00.001-07:00

"Hell, the truth of the matter is I'm one blunt, two shots, three sexual songs, four more lonely nights and five fingers away from picking up my old ways. Therefore, I don’t have time to judge you, because I'm too busy asking God to forgive my sinful thoughts, words, and actions." (Keisha "Kitten" Isaacs)

Addictive Nature

2008-04-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking about how I have an addictive nature and if I'm not careful it could get me in big trouble spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and/or physically. I'm not sure if all of us have that same nature or if it's just certain people. However, I have known of many people who are addicted to shopping, shoes, money, sex, drugs, alcohol, love, purses, food, and the list could probably go on and on.

As I sit and reflect on this thing caused addiction I can't help but acknowledge that I have flip flopped addictions throughout my lifetime. I have gone from one addiction to another, similiar to the person who gives up cigerettes and then starts eating chocolate. While reflecting, I have to be honest and say my current "flip flop addiction" is food. I'm abstaining from sex and so I tend to eat when lustful desires stand before me and lonely nights.

A few months ago I was becoming addicted to electronic devices and that has faded away. What's the next addiction? I tell you what I hope and pray it's something healthy cause electronic devices is taking money out of my pocket and food is going to make me burst out of my pants!

They say that first step is admitting you have a problem..........okay so what's step two??????
What is it that causes addiction? What causes many to become compulsively and physiologically dependent on something for gratification? Do you have any addictions?

p.s. I enjoy this blogging thing, but I'm working hard not to make it my newest addiction! Hey, maybe step two is to be aware!

Peace Became Still

2008-04-19T10:48:00.001-07:00

It had been days since she last saw him and way too many minutes had passed since they last spoke. How could he just disappear into thin air? Where was he when she needed him most of all. She searched in the depths of her mind to recall the last time when they were separated for such a long time as this. She felt so alone and hurt by his disappearing act. Suddenly she felt a peace come over her body bringing her to a calm place. She slowly wiped the tears from her eyes as she heard him say… “I am still here, fear not I will never leave you nor forsake you.” At that very moment peace became still…..

Metaphoric Labor

2008-04-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

I take a quick thought then I put it on paper.....
Give birth to a new image with a metaphoric labor...
I be the mother of this poem....
Raising words to form....
A full grown opinion....
Writing truth on this paper till my fingers hurt..
Picking brains like cotton I'll put in work...
Until the job is done...
Pray to rise up like the morning sun....
So the light can shine...
I wanna bring the WORD to this world ...
We soo blind that we can't see...
God give me wisdom to nurse your children with each delivery....

Random Thoughts!

2008-04-07T15:28:00.000-07:00

Wasted time ......drags on.... into a ....new day.......
And I am reminded .....of a..... few days...
You know them.... used to be ....YOU .....days....

In two days....a few days...then flew theys...WAY
Into the.... spot...where you sleep...
Stealing sticks...from the nest...that brings you peace

The heat...builds....then the steam......blows...
Like a whistle.....you gon' blowwwww...
cause you...held in...the voice...that let's the world know

Hear the Truth or Listen to a Lie????

2008-02-25T16:50:00.000-08:00

Today I had a disagreement with a teenager that I am currently leading. I spoke something that the bible would back me up on 100%, but she got upset. Now my position is that I am here to help her and that I would be doing her injustice if I don't keep it real with her even when the truth hurts. Heated words were spread in the atmosphere, but later we were able to talk about everything in a more calm manner. During our calm conversation I asked her if she wanted me to keep it real with her or not. She informed me that she did want me to keep it real, but she doesn't wanna hear it all the time. I informed her that I didn't expect her to feel everything I said, but I have to say it anyway so that she can pull it out of her book of wisdom in the future.

This situation caused me to start thinking about truth verses a lie. I was thinking about how some people would rather be around folks who tell them a lie or simply don't keep it real with them than someone who will be honest with them in love. I mean they'd rather listen to someone lie to them about how it's okay to lie, cheat, steal, misuse and abuse others, but get upset when someone tells them that stealing makes them a thief, lying makes them a liar, and not reciprocating makes them a user. It's like some of us prefer to listen to lies than hear the truth!

I decided to get some feedback from my peoples, so I sent out about 35 text messages asking different people of different ages, race, and gender the question at hand. "Is it better to hear the truth or listen to a lie?" I wanted to share some of the feedback with you.....

"What's wrong with the truth"-34 year old female
"Always better to hear the truth man, but it's easier to tell and listen to a lie"-35 year old male
"Hear the truth even when it hurts"-34 year old female & 35 year old female
'I think it's best to hear both cause even in a lie there is truth about their character"-31 year old female
"The truth and nothing but the truth"-30 year old female
"Hear the truth and a lie if you are scared of the truth"-18 year old male
"I believe the truth but you must be ready for it"-35 year old female
"Hear the truth, but it doesn't mean i will follow it"-30 year old female

So what do you think?????? Is it better to hear the truth or listen to a lie???

Baby minus the Sex

2008-02-23T19:25:00.000-08:00

So I was watching Tyra Banks the other day and there was a young lady on there who had shopped for a sperm donor because she needed to get pregnant per her doctor. She was not married and did not have a boyfriend so she decided to go to a sperm bank so she could find a donor to go half on a baby with her.

I've thought about this as an option before, but I never seriously looked into it. However, I've always wondered is it a sin? Is it a sin to make a baby minus sex?????????