Two thought provoking articles from Relevant/Reject Apathy: Unconventional Ways to Fight Poverty by Elsie Amyx and The Wrong Way to Approach The Poor by Chase Miller.

As I look upon today's society, seeing people that spend their time solely on the streets, and others that spend the majority of their time at their jobs so they can make ends meet, there is a voice that asks "What is poor anymore? What is considered to be poverty?"

It seems that the official word is an income at or less than $23,850 for a family of four. This accounted for nearly 15% of Americans in 2013 (46 million). The top 1% of makes over $500,000k yearly, where-as I am now learning middle class can range from $35k to about $100k. 

I am reminded of a time when I had my first car, a white Geo Storm in which was decked out with bright colored embellishments and Power Puff Girl novelties. I could fill up the tank for about $15. My tank now would laugh and me and beckon for more in two or three days. Of course that is nothing in comparison to the age in when my mom was raised where she could get a moon pie and a coke for .15 cents. 

With the above just being merely facts and figures, I transition into this, the Bible tells us in Deuteronomy 5:11, "There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land." 

It is by God's grace alone that neither you nor I are in such a situation.  For example, one of the people from L5P has a story that could happen to any of us. He had a home. He was living paycheck to paycheck. He got let go. His house insurance lapsed. He house caught on fire. BAM! As such he then ended up on the street with no friends or family to turn to at the time.

It's my belief that we all are lacking and need help from others in one way or the other (whether it be food, compassion, instruction, etc). Not to mention that we are constantly needing help from God! As written in the book, we are a patchwork quilt, made up of all different people, in various places, spaces and backgrounds but all stitched together - meant to work together, in hope of a better present and future for all.

In conclusion I would like to say a little RIP for two people from L5P that have passed away in the last two weeks, Big John (Bones) and Nancy, you will not be forgotten, but we all know where you are now! See you one day again, where there will be no more sorry and no more pain! 

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:

“When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.”

Ephesians 4:4-8

If you listen to Radio U then you have no doubt heard the Twenty One Pilots song “Guns For Hands” with its eclectic stylings and powerful message towards the youth (people) of today. After I heard their latest single “Holding On To You” I had no choice but to head over to iTunes and purchase their recent release “Vessel" a few days ago.

Upon listening to the entire compilation “what just happened” was the thought that bounced around in my noggin as it felt after the final track stopped someone had secretly syphoned some of my inner most kept thoughts and mumblings to God from the past 29 years I have been on this earth, penned them down in rhythmic lyrical form and laced it with some wonderful instrumental beats.

Mind = Blown

Of course you have read many writings about bands and songs that I find most enjoyable, but Twenty One Pilots are on a whole other level! So as much, I have listened to album more than I care to divulge and I refuse to pick a favorite or even compile a list of a few of my favorite tracks. It is impossible; they are all uniquely amazing, heartfelt, raw and masterful in their own way. Literally the only snippet I feel I cannot relate to is the fact I’ve never had my car radio stolen. O_o However that doesn't mean a thing in comparison to how I dropped my jaw when I heard on a prior track, Migraine, what day seems to be worse than the rest (for an unknown reason at that). So yeah - I feel it (and mean it when I say it for this song and the entire album), a lot.

In “Fake You Out” the lyrics beckons that many people go through the things he is talking about and that for me is what it so powerful about this cd. The evil one likes to play hacky sack with our brains, he likes to make us feel like we are alone – with no recourse, however that is so far from the truth it is laughable. Not only is God everywhere around [watching beside us and in us (Holy Spirit)], but there is also an entire world out there that is dealing with the same things that each of us are (and a host of people who have gone through it whose stories are written in the B-I-B-L-E)!

I could go through track by track and give a deep personal opinion, connection and mental recollection to how the lyrics apply to my life, but I would rather you take it from here and go on your own journey with Twenty One Pilots (whom I am thankful for doing what they do, honesty goes a long way). Below are just a few of the songs from the album, enter to win an iTunes copy (either for yourself or to share with a friend) and may each of you who read this, overcome all of the demons you are facing or may face in the future. There is but one hope for us all, cling to that hope and remember that you are never alone! 

P/S It looks like if you use Spotify (I don't), but you can get some commentary action by the band. Woot! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy Friday Everyone! Here is hoping your week was lovely,and that if you do “celebrate” Valentine’s Day, that is was a delight (yes I ama week later, but whateves).

We have had almost two months off now from the event that isknown as Christmas Possible, and now it is time to start thinking about theevent for 2013. Yet again, we will be serving on Christmas Eve at the Covenant House in Atlanta, GA. This year we have decided to do a Mexican Christmas, andare looking to have it catered from Moe’s. Since the kid count is expected tobe over 100 this year, we felt itbest to go this route. We are currently thinking of ideas of how to raise moneyfor the food and/or perhaps have the food donated or given at a discount (contact hasbeen made, phone chat pending – squee!).   Due to the generosity of a friend and his family, we will now be having a fresh off the grill BBQ!

Due to the increased cost of food, we are looking fordonations of a little bit different kind this year, rather than doing a whiteelephant game, which want to supply “care bags” to all that are in attendance,as such, there is a need for such items like (for both girls and boys): 

Shampoo

Conditioner

Soap

Deodorant

Lotion [travel size lotion qty filled]

Hairbrush / Combs

Razors

Shaving Cream

Make-Up

Toothbrush / Toothpaste

Perfume / Cologne 

Etc.

However, not to discourage, anything and everything donatedwill be given to the shelter  - this isjust our central focus for this year’s event. Efforts will begin shortly oncontacting companies for product donations, should any of you contacted viaemail be reading this, we do graciously hope that you will join with us in ourefforts. ☺

If you are interested in helping out and/or donating pleasecontact me, all donations (goods and funds) are tax deductible and you will beprovided a receipt.

As always, please keep this event in your prayers, it is themost important thing we can do, in order to make is a success!

To God be the glory and thank you all kindly! 

First off, THANK YOU for everyone who helped with this effort, either by praying, donating time, donating money, donating goods or a combination of those items listed. I have heard back from Kellie and she said the kids had a BLAST, said that it was their “best meal ever” and they are still talking about how good it was! As likewise said that evening, thanks be to God for making it all possible.

Due to the amazing generosity of all who helped we were able to do the following:

Southern Buffett Dinner
(for 31 kids/6 staff)
Fried Chicken + Yams + Mashed Potatoes + Gravy + Mac n’ Cheese + Green Beans + Corn + Rolls + Fudge + Sugar Cookies + Sweet Tea + Pink Lemonade

Christmas Eve Gifts
(for 31 kids/6 staff, staff got surprised with gift cards =D)

Sweaters, shirts, wallets, purses, group games, and various miscellaneous items for opening on Christmas Morning (or newcomer gifts)

Outfitted 8 beds (4 boys / 4 girls) with all new bedding and pillows

The evening of CP:12 was more magical than I could ever have imagined. While I was pretty much running around like a chicken with my head cut off I can say that the youth there were just splendid! It was truly a delight when a few of the youth sang for us, and when I heard one of the volunteers ask, “Do you paint” to one of the youth who had received one of the acrylic kits for their “surprise gift” said, “Not yet, but now that I have this I will learn”, I melted!

Aside from just serving the youth and the staff at the Covenant House, one of my joys was seeing all of the volunteers come together. Not to mention, we had a family who donated their time and efforts that was made up of three generations. You can truly see their lights for the Lord beaming from miles away! 

However, you don’t have to take my word for it, here is some additional notes from some of the lovely volunteers that night:

“My experience at the homeless shelter was great because I got to help people. I know that I need to be grateful for what I get and have. It was nice to share with people who have less than I. I know that I am blessed.” – Ameira (age 10)

“I am fortunate to know an amazing young lady that shares herself so openly with others and organized CP:12.  I’ve done different volunteer work in the past but nothing like this event.  Experiencing the joy that this event brought to the many young adults who attended was a precious gift to my husband and me.   I had many of them come up to me and thank me for their gifts or hug me and tell me how much they appreciated the meal.  What a wonderful feeling knowing you made a difference in their Christmas.  One young man loved the Christmas cookies I’d baked so much that he asked for a takeout container so that he could take the rest of them home with him.   He left two just in case someone else still wanted one. =D  To think that these young adults may never have had such a treat really brings home how lucky we are to have loving family and friends.” – Lisa

The following companies also helped out with the efforts, so MANY thanks to Canvas By U (who did a painting party, presents and supplied 50 new mattresses), Publix (gift card aka chicken masters), Fifth Group Restaurants (gift card), LegalSea Foods (gift card) and Rack Room Shoes (gift card). 

God is good, ALL THE TIME! 

One small act of kindness can change a person’s life forever.

Happy (almost) New Year Everyone! I must say I am glad to be back writing, while the time off was lovely (more updates on that later), I am excited to be back sharing some written words.

To start off this New Year I wanted to ask you all to join me in 31 Days of Kindness, just one simple action each day, that will help others (along with yourself), start off to a great 2013. Of course if you are reading this mid-January or another month, by no means let that stop you, kindness is a currency that will never lose its fair-market value. Due to availability/cost/location it is offered as a “31 actions” rather than day specific, so you can complete as you can. Likewise, if some days are unable to completed, completely understandable; no hard and fast rules, feel free to replace with your own “act of kindness” or even repeat a few days, after all we are just living out some love that has been shown to us by the Grace of the Trinity! The only real rule is to keep showing *extra* kindness each day for 31 days.

I’d be remiss if I did not give props to one of my besties, Dalia, for first bringing this idea to me. She has asked me of some ideas before of what she could do and now a few months later I just wanted to put something together and embark a group journey with us all, not to mention what I great way to celebrate my BIRTHDAY MONTH (yes, I will be turning the big 2-9 on the 18^th). If you feel led share your experience of this just email me [HollieMarie(at)ShadesofSunshine(dot)com] and above all simply enjoy the awesomeness of being a helping hand to others!

One: Compliment A Stranger (Wholeheartedly, even more than one if possible) 
Two: Open/Hold The Door For (at least) 5 People (Not all ladies, gentleman like this treat too)
Three: Leave A Co-Worker (Or Neighbor) An Anonymous Note Of Gratitude
Four: Buy Someone A Cup Of Coffee, Tea Or Soda
Five: Let Someone Go In Line In Front Of You At The Store
Six: Box Up Some Items and Give Them Away  (Store/organization, family in need, random stranger – your choice)
Seven:  Leave Change At A Vending Machine
Eight: Befriend Some Kids (Wave, joke, say hi, give ‘em a balloon, stickers, etc)
Nine: Write A Note Of Appreciation Or Give A Gift To Your Mailman
Ten: Sincerely Forgive Someone and/or Pray For An “Enemy’s” Wellbeing
Eleven: Volunteer or Schedule To Volunteer At An Organization Of Your Choice
Twelve: Send Someone In Service A Letter (If you don’t know one, check out http://www.anysoldier.com/  - go to your particular branch and click “where to send”)
Thirteen: Hug Peoples (As many as you can, friends, family or strangers .. FREE HUGS FOR ALL)
Fourteen: Hand Out (or Place On Cars) Verse Cards / You Are Special Cards / Stickers, Etc
Fifteen: Leave Some Quarters At The Laundry Mat
Sixteen: Help Someone Carry Their Groceries or Trash
Seventeen: Take Someone To Lunch / Cook Someone A Meal
Eighteen: Hand Out Food or Necessity Bags To Homeless
Nineteen: Thank All The Cashiers, Food Servers, etc You Come Across For Doing What They Do
Twenty: Extend Your Help To Someone(s), Ask Around and Fulfill A Need
Twenty One: Treat Someone To Sweets (Leave Some Candy for a Co-worker, Neighbor, etc)
Twenty Two: Send An Appreciation Letter or Gift To A Civil Service Organization  (Fireman, Police, etc)
Twenty Three: Pass Along A Book (You Love) To Someone Who Would Enjoy It
Twenty Four:  Be A Courteous Driver (Let people merge, cut in, etc ..)
Twenty Five: Tip Someone VERY Well
Twenty Six: Pick Up Trash (See some litter, pick it up!)
Twenty Seven: Hand Out or Leave (strategically placed) Bibles (Dollar Tree now carries them)
Twenty Eight: Donate Canned Food Items To A Local Food Bank
Twenty Nine: Give A Gift To or Visit A Nursing Home
Thirty:  Give Some Gas (Cash at pump, gift card, etc - a little bit goes a long way)

Thirty-One: Buy A Stranger A Meal (Drive Thru – Drop a gift card at a table in a restaurant – etc)

                 

"But God demonstrated His own love for us; While we were sinners Christ died for us!" Romans 5:8

Recently I listened to a conversation from a woman who does not believe in God. She told a story of how she has (on at least one occasion) had to take issue with the school system for teaching creationism in science class. “Religion is belief and science is fact, they should not be taught one in the same”. Her story continued on with how both of her daughters were good, they knew right from wrong, and both excel in their own right academically and generally speaking they do not cause any trouble. Recently, she said, her youngest daughter (a sophomore in high school), approached her with some concern/question of her own, on the whole matter.

It seems there is a group at school called the “Christian Athletes” (something or other) and she noticed, that all of these people, who stood out to be different, where actually the ones who were getting smashed on Friday night foot ball games. With that being spoke the topic changed to more lighthearted things such as black Friday shopping, thrift store adventures and food, however almost a week later this has remained in my mind.

In 2 Corinthians 5:17 it says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come”! To this young woman, I imagine she looks upon this group as why? Why do I need this savior you speak of, if in fact you are doing things worse than I when I know nothing of Him? Of course, as believers we know the deep rooted answer to this, but yet onlookers merely see what we have to offer by our actions and our tongue.

Though none of us are perfect, I believe we forget sometimes that we, in fact, have the world watching. Those who do not believe will in a way, judge our savior and our creator through us. This is why we are urged more than a handful of times to be set apart, to lead by and be an example. In these times, this is of the upmost importance, I am sure as you look around at the world around you, we will all agree. Let your light shine, be bold – be quick to listen to the correction of the Holy Spirit, and continuously let the One who knows all guide your way.

Dear Heavenly Father, We thank You for Your word. Thank You so much for leaving Your letter of love to us, so that we might know how to live! We thank You for Your calling of us into Your court. Help us to continuously be an example of Your love and truth to all those that we meet, to all those that we see. May Your children cling ever more closely to You, for while the world around us is rioting away, You alone are the everlasting hope! In the name of Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. 

SiC ♥