Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     When I was in junior high school, friends and I were in a consciousness-raising group, a term that now seems quaint like a butter churn, but it was very powerful. It was a really wonderful experience. My being a writer and playing Scrabble are connected. If I have a good writing day, I'll take a break and play online Scrabble. I later created crossword puzzles, which was a lot about puns, and how words would create these strange, strange things. ~Meg Wolitzer~

     Greetings and Salutations to you Almeida and Mary! A very happy 49th anniversary of your 21st birthday! Coexisting with your birth anniversary today, is the celebration of National Scrabble Day. It's considered a holiday also! As you well know, Scrabble is a game that has been around for over 70+ years and is played by people all over the world. Existing on a parallel, to the game, you both have been with us today for 70 years. So add up the points from the Scrabble letter tiles above and subtract it from your age. Today, I am declaring the 70s to be the new 30s! Can you recall who, what, when, where and how you celebrated your big day at that age? Well, if you can't, most of your classmates probably can't either, so you're among good company. We're mostly just grateful for life itself these days. May you both continue to age with grace and may your beauty never fade. Life is short, and if we enjoy every moment of every day, then we will be happy no matter what happens or what changes along the way. With the new year comes a refueled motivation to improve on the past one. I have at least one goal that I work toward each day. It's all about taking hold of the day rather than letting the day run you (Gretchen Bleiler).

     Some time ago, I asked a few classmates for heart felt words, relative to our physical ages these days. Love of self, balance in life and wellness were included among those suggested. Wellness is my chosen topic for this week and it incorporates all three phrases. Taking care of yourself in general—eating healthy foods, getting plenty of sleep and practicing gentle exercise, among other acts—can also help minimize anxious feelings and contribute to a greater sense of overall wellness (Jennifer Bringle, Health.com). We can't avoid age, however, we can avoid some aging. Continue to do things. Be active. Life is fantastic in the way it adjusts to demands; if you use your muscles and mind, they stay there much longer (Charles H. Townes). As you celebrate today, or choose not to, may Favour, Grace, and Mercy be ever present in your lives today and those to come. If you haven't started already, infuse your life with action. Don't wait for it to happen. Make it happen. Make your own future. Make your own hope. Make your own love. And whatever your beliefs, honor your creator, not by passively waiting for grace to come down from upon high, but by doing what you can to make grace happen... yourself, right now, right down here on Earth (Bradley Whitford). Bradley is seven years younger than us and even he gets what wellness is about...Whether it's Love, Balance or Wellness, for today and the future, I wish you both a Dexter Moore kind of day. Here's wishing you "Good Vibes, Always". Wobbly knees, grey hair and fine lines are all signs of the marvelous life we have led so far. Wishing you many more years of magic and adventure. A very happy 70th birthday to you!....enjoy your day....stay safe my friends.....

Kenneth Davis

 S o m e t i m e s   i n   t h e   w o r l d ,   

t h e r e ' s   s u c h   p r e s s u r e   t o   f o l l o w   a   c e r t a i n   p a t h 

t h a t   w e   f o r g e t   t h e   i m p o r t a n c e   o f   l e a r n i n g   a s   w e   g o . 

~Sophia   Amoruso~ 

 Skip the salad: 6 other ways to eat fruits & vegetables - Matt Sulem 

     When one thinks of meals involving fruits and vegetables, salads are usually the first thing to come to mind. And although we enjoy digging into a good salad, it’s not something we want to eat every single day and night. Not only will this get repetitive (and overly fruit and veggie heavy), but there are tastier ways to get those all-important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants into your diet. 

Avocado Toast
Avocados are superfoods, meaning you can get a heaping helping of essential vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants from a single source. On that note, let’s keep things relatively simple with a quick and easy (but very satisfying) recipe for avocado toast three ways, courtesy of California Avocados. You can always class it up with a more complex version too, as there are countless recipes out there!
Cauliflower Pizza
If you’re staring at this pizza photo and wondering why you can’t see the cauliflower, it’s because it’s in the crust! In a little treat for our gluten-free friends, this pizza uses mashed cauliflower in place of dough. The “crust” is then baked before the toppings are added. As you can see, this one is covered in meat, but you add or substitute some extra veggies if you want a healthier or vegetarian pie. Detoxinista has the recipe, plus a special trick to help ensure your crust comes out perfect.
Coleslaw with Peppers and Apples
Think coleslaw can only include carrots and cabbage? Prepare to have your mind blown with this recipe from All Recipes that calls for the addition of red bell peppers and two types of apples. It might seem odd at first, but we think you’ll love this dish, which is perfect for summer cookouts! (Just don’t leave it in the sun for too long… there’s still mayo in there, after all.)
Green Smoothies
If your goal is to get more greens down your gullet, take a tip from the healthy-eating pros and sneak it into a smoothie. As 100 Days of Real Food suggests, the best ratio for green smoothies is 2 cups leafy greens (kale, spinach, romaine, bok choy, etc.), 2 cups liquid base (water, coconut water, coconut milk, almond milk), and 3 cups fruit (banana, mango, and basically any other kind). They’ll get you started with their “Beginner’s Luck Green Smoothie” recipe.
Vegetable Parmesan
We love chicken parm, but where are the veggies? Instead of filling up on all that meat, try this healthier recipe from The Endless Meal. It uses eggplant, onions, carrots, and bell peppers, plus some other ingredients you might not expect, like honey, feta cheese, and almond milk. It may sound like a lot, but you’ll barely notice under all that cheese.
Zucchini Bread
 Zucchini bread is the perfect breakfast, snack, or side dish for any meal. If you’ve never tried it before, trust us, you’ll barely even notice the zucchini. (It worked when our moms made it back when we were picky little children.) Since warm weather is upon us, there’s no better time to utilize this summer vegetable! Get the recipe courtesy of Epicurious. 

Joycelyn Lacy (Somerville)

Happy Birthday Almeida and Mary,

...just wanted to share a little "Black Girl Magic."

(38) HEY QUEEN!!! 2021 Inspiration To Black Queens! (Pay It Forward) - YouTube

Always,

Joycelyn

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     If you eat good, you feel good. I would encourage every body else to do the same. I never want to try to be a spokesperson for health and wellness because I most definitely am not the most in shape person in the world. I don't have any concerns about my weight. I've always been healthy. I eat right. I'm just a big dude. I've always been happy with the person I am. So that will never change.

~Ruben Studdard~

7 foods men should eat for a longer, healthier life — and what to limit.....
Samantha Cassetty, RD 

     Eating a diet that's mainly focused on meat and potatoes isn’t the best way for men to stay healthy and strong, even though both foods can be part of a healthy diet. Many men have a tendency to zero in on protein foods and pay less attention to other options like veggies and fiber-rich foods. But to fuel good health, men need more than protein; they need a minimum of 2 1/2 cups of veggies, 2 cups of fruit, and 30 to 38 grams of fiber per day — nutrition targets that few men achieve. Here are seven foods that can help men stay healthier for longer.

1. Blueberries
Whether fresh or frozen, blueberries contain potent antioxidants that help counter the DNA damage that contributes to the development of cancer. Beyond their anti-cancer potential, blueberries are also one of the best foods to eat to help preserve memory and thinking skills over time. Plus, a cup of berries supplies about 4 grams of much-needed fiber. 
Try: Blended into smoothies, as a whole-grain cereal topper or by the handful.

2. Salmon
The omega-3s in salmon help lower the risk of heart disease, the leading killer of American men, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Salmon and other types of seafood are also rich in lean protein. By choosing to eat seafood twice a week, you’re not only scoring beneficial omega-3s, iron and zinc, but also limiting other types of less healthful protein, like red meat and processed meats, that guys often go for.
Try: Canned pink salmon as an alternative to canned tuna and grilled, baked or broiled wild or sustainably raised farm salmon.

3. Spinach
All leafy greens are good for you, but spinach has a milder flavor than a lot of other greens, which may make it more appealing to men who don't like strong or bitter tastes. Spinach is rich in carotenoids, including beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Lab studies suggest these compounds might deter cancer from developing and progressing. Lutein and zeaxanthin also play a part in protecting your vision from blue light — the type of light emitted from digital devices like your mobile phone and tablet. Plus, in a study among older adults, the participants who ate one serving of spinach (or any leafy green) per day showed less cognitive decline than those who shunned greens — their cognitive abilities were similar to those of folks 11 years younger than them.
Try: Mixed into whole wheat pasta, as a side salad, as a sandwich fixing or sautéed with garlic in extra virgin olive oil.

4. Nuts
Adding a couple of handfuls of nuts to your daily diet may help improve your sex life, according to Spanish researchers. In the study, nut eaters reported better orgasms and stronger sexual drive compared to those following the typical American diet, which is much lower in nuts. Other research found that nuts improve sperm quality, which may lead to better fertility. In both cases, the type of healthy fat and high antioxidant levels in nuts are thought to provide these benefits.
Try: Stirring into yogurt, adding to oatmeal, using as a topping for salads and sautéed greens or as a standalone snack.

5. Avocado
Despite being high in fat and calories, avocados may help you manage your weight over time. According to a recent study, avocado eaters who were normal weight to begin with gained significantly less weight over an 11-year period compared with those who avoided avocados. The healthy fat and fiber in avocados makes them a filling addition to a meal, and other research suggests meals rich in avocado help curb your desire to eat and might blunt post-meal insulin levels, which could translate to better blood sugar control.
Try: Mashed as a sandwich spread or as guacamole served with veggie sticks.

6. Edamame
Prostate cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer among men, and a recent meta-analysis found that soy foods, like edamame, may lower your risk of getting this disease. A cup of edamame in the pod supplies 11 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber and numerous other nutrients, including magnesium, folate, iron and potassium.
Try: Pureed into a dip, shelled and tossed into mac and cheese and as a quick side or snack.

7. Plain Greek yogurt
A study that tracked over 180,000 people over the course of 20 to 30 years found that those who were regular yogurt eaters had a 16% lower risk of high blood pressure compared to those choosing to eat yogurt less than once a month. When yogurt was included in a DASH dietary pattern, which encourages a healthy intake of fruits and veggies, along with whole grains, participants experienced a 30% lower risk of high blood pressure. It should be noted that in the study, yogurt eaters had healthier diets in general, with less red and processed meats and sugary beverages, but since yogurt is rich in blood pressure lowering nutrients, like calcium, researchers suggest it likely provides added benefits.

 IT'S THROW BACK THURSDAY 

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     It doesn't matter where you come from, what you have or don't have, what you lack, or what you have too much of. But all you need to have is faith in God, an undying passion for what you do and what you choose to do in this life, and a relentless drive and the will to do whatever it takes to be successful in whatever you put your mind to. My parents had us in church every Sunday, every Wednesday. It was more of a tradition at that point; I didn't have a personal relationship with the Lord until I went to the altar call one Sunday, and the youth pastor told us to make a decision for ourselves.

~Stephen Curry~

     But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

~Jesus Christ~

Kenneth Davis

My grandmother

took me to church on Sunday

all day long,

every Sunday into the night.

Then Monday evening was the missionary meeting.

Tuesday evening was usher board meeting.

Wednesday evening was prayer meeting.

Thursday evening was visit the sick.

Friday evening was choir practice.

I mean, and at all those gatherings, we sang.

~Maya Angelou~

     Happy Birth Anniversary day to you Minister Maurice Hunt! The images of you captured above and the Thought For Consideration, conjures up the idea of reflections. Possibly a mother, father and a grandmother took us to church as children, in the painted picture of words, expressed by Maya Angelou. We can see the reflection of each day of the week mentioned and the imagery of our participation. The combination of your birth falling on "Good Friday" and "Your chosen profession", speaks volumes of joy and happiness for everyone who knows and respects the individual you've become. The next series of statements don't apply to you, but simply paint a picture of reflection, by a somewhat famous individual. Mike D, of "Beastie Boy" fame once stated; Real life is much stranger than fiction, man. Obviously, there are moments that you look back at and cringe - things in the past involving violence or disrespect to women or disrespect to other people that are so far away from what I want to put out there now. I don't know if it's just me getting older or if it's a reflection of times changing, but it just seems to me like among most of my friends and peers, there's a lot more time being spent at home than out.
     Among our friends and peers, there is a lot more time being spent at home than out. Many are still participating in Sunday worship services via Zoom, or afraid to go out because of those who commit crimes, not to mention the pandemic. Sometimes we need pure relief. Sometimes we need pure escapism. Sometimes we need major reflection on some aspects of our collective unconscious. With all of the bad things that are happening in the world right now, I think we need a message of togetherness and true unity. I believe that starts with personal reflection and then we can find kindness toward each other (Marielle Heller). And that brings us directly back to you and your personal reflection and decision to encourage everyone to find kindness toward each other as a friend and your obligation as a Pastor. 
     A Theologian named Origen once said; " The power of choosing good and evil is within the reach of all. This also is a part of the teaching of the Church, that there are certain angels of God, and certain good influences, which are His servants in accomplishing the salvation of men. For whatever be the knowledge which we are able to obtain of God, either by perception or reflection, we must of necessity believe that He is by many degrees far better than what we perceive Him to be". Congratulations Maurice, upon being blessed with Grace, Mercy and Favor , to reach and achieve this great milestone of life. May you continue to be that certain good influencer and servant, accomplishing the salvation of men and women, within and out of the Church. Continue to make a joyful noise unto the Lord as we salute you, our friend. May you have an Andrae Crouch type of day. Should you celebrate today, or not, may your day of reflection provide you with the clear image that "Through It All", we've been blessed, because of you...enjoy your day...stay safe my friend....let us hear from you, still waiting on the words of power from you....

Kenneth Davis

6 Drinking Habits Causing Chaos on Your Blood Sugar - Jeff Csatari 

     Diabetes is often called "the silent disease" because it sneaks up on you. High blood sugar, the precursor to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, doesn't have outward symptoms. It doesn't hurt. "That's what's so scary about high blood sugar; you don't feel any different until you reach the point where you need medication," says Molly Wagman, RDN, certified diabetes care, and education specialist and head of clinical operations for 9am.health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 96 million American adults have prediabetes and 80% of them don't know they have it. That's why screening is so important, and the American Diabetes Association in 2022 lowered its recommended age for screening by 10 years to include all adults age 35 and older.
     If you're in that age category, get one of these tests: A1C, fasting plasma glucose, or oral glucose tolerance. Knowing you have high blood sugar is important because of what type 2 diabetes can do to your entire body, namely damaging your blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, and heart. If you need your blood glucose levels checked, you can always talk to a doctor. But if you're looking for a less invasive clue to see if you might be heading down the path to a diabetes diagnosis, examine your daily drinking habits. Your go-to beverages can cause chaos to your blood sugar just as easily as your habit of eating high-carb and sugar-laden desserts, baked goods, white bread, rice, and other processed grain products. Wagman warns that sugar-sweetened beverages are even more insidious than food because liquid goes down so easily.
     "In a few sips, you can consume the carbohydrate and sugar equivalent of an entire meal," she says. Knowing how certain drinking habits (like those listed below) can raise your blood sugar to unhealthy levels and cause problems over time may help you to replace those bad beverage habits with healthier ones.
1. Drinking soda or sweet tea
You know this: Soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages are bad news for your blood sugar. A study of more than 300,000 people in the journal Diabetes Care found that people who drank one to two servings of sugar-sweetened beverages daily had a 26% greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who drank less than once a month. While soda and sweet tea are obviously loaded with sugar, you may not realize how many added sugars go into commercial beverages. "Read the nutrition facts label for carbohydrates and grams of added sugar," says Kimberly Pierpont, RD at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. "Anything containing carbohydrates can raise your blood sugar." Also check the ingredients list for these other names for sugar: cane sugar, corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, honey, syrup, brown sugar, agave nectar, glucose, maltose, molasses, raw sugar. "Pairing sugary beverages with a meal containing protein and healthy fats can lessen the blood sugar spike," says Pierpont.
2. Drinking specialty coffees
It's not the coffee per se that's the problem; black coffee is full of healthy polyphenols. Altering coffee with sweet creamers, however, turns your coffee cup into the equivalent of a can of soda. "Adding high-calorie, high-fat sweeteners or creamers increases the likelihood of your regular coffee beverage causing weight gain," says Trista Best, RD at Balance One Supplements. "One of the worst drinking habits for those who want to control their blood sugar is consuming high sugar and fat specialty coffees." Taking coffee black is the healthiest form, and it doesn't take long for you to develop a preference for coffee unencumbered by sugar and cream.
3. Drinking drinks that seem healthy but aren't
Some of these labels include "All-Natural Energy Drink," "100% Real Juice," and "Made with Organic Fruit." But those "health masks" as Wagman calls them, won't fool your body. "Popular energy drinks, sports beverages, and tea drinks made with herbs, they are almost always made with lots of added sugars to make them sweet," says Wagman. Even 100% pure orange juice will likely spike your blood sugar. "Just four ounces—three sips for me—is the equivalent of the fructose in a medium orange," she says. "Eat the orange instead and get all the nutrients and the fiber."
4. Drinking frozen beverages on a hot day
News Flash: Adding ice to coffee or drinking frozen beverages doesn't make a difference to your blood sugar. If the drink has sugar in it, the ice won't make it any healthier. But for some reason some people think sweet, iced coffee or a slush drink on a hot day is A-OK even when concerned about high blood sugar. "A typical 20-ounce slush drink packs about 83 grams of sugar," says Steve Theunissen, RDN, a certified personal trainer and writer for SmartFitnessResults. "You'll be hard-pressed to find a commercial slushie with less sugar, but you can make a healthier version at home with fruit. Recipes are just a quick internet search away." Theunissen recommends avoiding iced coffees and sports drinks, too, which usually contain 74 and 34 grams of sugar respectively per 20 ounces.
5. Drinking milk-based smoothies
"Smoothies can be a sneaky beverage that can affect your blood sugar," warns Katie Tomaschko, RDN with Sporting Smiles. "While thought of as 'healthy,' smoothies can be loaded in sugar from sweeteners in plant-based milk, such as added sugar, agave, or honey." Also keep in mind that cow's milk contains a natural sugar called lactose, which contributes to the total amount of sugar you are consuming. "While most smoothies contain vegetables or fruits (with the pulp included) that contain fiber, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes, it is important to exercise caution with these beverages if you are dealing with diabetes or prediabetes," says Tomaschko.
6. Drinking alcohol
Even though a shot of whiskey or other hard liquor contains no sugar, many of the mixers that go into cocktails contain sugars. Wine has sugar and carbohydrates, beer contains carbs. So, regular drinking "may result in a rise in blood sugar levels as well as the possibility of weight gain," says David Brendan, RDN, a certified personal trainer with Start Rowing. "Alcohol alters the way the liver generates glucose, which can cause a sudden dip in blood sugar called hypoglycemia," says Brendan. "Insulin users should be mindful of the effects of drinking on their blood glucose levels." Wagman points to another fact of adult beverage consumption that can affect your blood sugar levels: the food you eat during and after drinking. "Alcohol lowers inhibitions, so after having a few drinks you are more likely to choose large portions of high-carb foods or even order more drinks," she says.

Kenneth Davis

WEBSITE SUBSCRIPTION RENEWAL LEVEL
                  Monthly    1 Year    3 Years    5 Years    10 Years     
 Premium   $16         $165       $385        $495          $825

FUNDS RECEIVED TOWARD RENEWAL AND DONATION TO
 THE GRADUATING CLASS OF 2022
  AS OF APRIL 15, 2022 -  A GRAND TOTAL OF $1,645

     Warriors - War-ri-ors - Warr-iors. Second Corinthians 9:12, the Easy-to-Read Version states; The service you are offering helps God’s people with their needs, but that is not all it does. It is also bringing more and more thanks to God.... I thank each of you who provided a donation to this fundraiser. Your service of distinguished offerings, now allows us to continue in the service to each other and to help God's people, "The Class of 2022", with their needs. Thank you so very much. I'm elated to announce the website subscription has been renewed for ten (10) years and expires on April 16, 2032, which is Charles E. Burtons birth anniversary. There was some initial concern regarding the levels presented for payment at the time of the renewal. Three separate charges were completed, two @ $385.00 and one @ $165.00. It was necessary to overpay on my credit card, but a refund has been initiated. (Here's a snippet of our exchange; Good morning Jessica! Thank you for your timely response. I used the secure online payment form this morning to process a payment of $825.00. I had to process three(3) payments, two 3 year subscriptions at $385.00 and one 1 year subscription for $165.00. All paid receipts only provide a total of seven (7) years. The original subscription rate posted on our website indicated a 10 year subscription for $825.00 and is included within my attachments. Each of the 3 receipts is also attached. For the sake of my classmates, of whom I've collected monies from for the renewal, would it be possible to receive written notification, that we're renewed at the 10 year level and not 7 years. Thank you for your assistance resolving this matter).....
     Detailed clarification was received via email exchanges, with specifics attached below. Authorized to pay only $825.00, the withdrawal slip from the Credit Union account used for all deposits received, is attached also. There were no additional pledges received, however I'm expecting at least one more, soon. As previously mentioned, funds greater than the amount required for our website renewal, will be donated to the seventy-five (75) member BTW graduating Class of 2022, students. It will assist with fees, such as, Baccalaureate and Commencement, cap & gowns, required venue and food...etc. For the moment, the amount donated will be $820.00, plus any interest gained. Graciously, a "Few Good Men" and I will round the amount upwards to $1000.00, for presentation to the Senior Advisor and Finance Secretary. Should additional explanations or questions arise from my report on this fundraiser, please contact me....If you have mailed your pledge and have not received an acknowledgement, or a thank you gift from me, please let me know right away....enjoy your evening and stay safe my friends...as we enjoy a "Billy Preston " live performance to close out this 10 Year subscription renewal fundraiser and a "Class of 1970" donation, towards the "Class of 2022".......at this point, "You Can't Beat God Giving"......

Kenneth Davis

 SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND - by Marsha Burns 

      I search the land to find those who have kind and generous hearts, for I will bestow a blessing on those who carry out My purposes on the earth. I delight in your willingness to give support to the less fortunate and lift up the downtrodden. You express My heart. Proverbs 11:25 The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.

T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     The magic of America is that we're a free and open society with a mixed population. Part of our security is our freedom. To be safe at the expense of the liberty of other people is a difficult equation. If you look at my life, generally, I've been put in situations which were difficult and which I conquered. ~Madeleine Albright~

     Happy Birth Anniversary to you Charles Burton! May you be blessed to see additional days of grace, favor and mercy as an individual and servant of the people. It's difficult, but not impossible to write a narritive about someone, when only three data points are given in their online profile. Many of us haven't seen, nor heard from you since our high school days. But such limited information is acknowledged, considering your employer listed in 2011. As former Secretary of State, Madeline Albright stated, we are a free and open society and part of our security is our freedom. Having served honorably in the US Air Force, you totally get the meaning of freedom. The oath you took to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, evidently inspired and sustained your desire to continue as a public servant. 
     There's another line of that same oath which says; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same. I don't know many people from the 38126 who can say they served deligently within the Department of Justice. Certain positions and appointments within government agencies are considered lucrative. You also took an oath prior to employment with the DOJ. One purpose of the Oath of Office is to remind federal workers that they do not swear allegiance to a supervisor, an agency, a political appointee, or even to the President. The oath is to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and faithfully execute your duties.
     Secretary Albright also stated; To be safe at the expense of the liberty of other people is a difficult equation. If you look at my life, generally, I've been put in situations which were difficult and which I conquered. I mentioned the 38126 previously, which for some people, was a difficult equation. We were put in situations which were difficult, and which we also had no other choice but to conquer. At the expense and the liberty of our parents and the faculty of BTW, we were safe. During those moments, inadvertently we were developing three major characteristics found in the oaths administered to us upon enlistment into the military and as a government employee. Those words are FAITH, ALLEGIANCE and FREEDOM. Such words truly described the content of your character, as it was known to classmates, during our good ole days, running freely around the 38126. 
     Congratulations upon reaching this complimentary milestone, by devotion to faith, allegiance and  freedom to make choices as a servant. As referenced in the Small Straws selection for today, Proverbs 11:25 states; The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself. Should you celebrate today or choose not to, I wish you a Larry Carlton & Paul Brown kind of day. As you do a little "Soul Searchin" reflect on the days of living in the 38126. There's more blessings to come your way, for you have many more "Miles and Miles To Go".....enjoy your day and stay safe my friend....by the way, today is also National Eggs Benedict Day....What's brunch without eggs Benedict? Rich hollandaise sauce, a perfectly yolky egg, a fluffy biscuit, and thick slices of Canadian bacon make up the classic dish that'll have you licking your lips before noon. 

Kenneth Davis

5 Drinks The Longest Living People Enjoy Every Day

     These days, life expectancy in the U.S. has hovered around 77 years—but in the so-called "Blue Zones," it's considerably longer. In fact, it's not uncommon for citizens in these regions—which include Sardinia, Icaria, Okinawa, Nicoya, and Loma Linda—to live past 100. So, if you're looking to lengthen your lifespan, it goes without saying that you'll want to take a cue or two from their eating and drinking habits. You'll be hard-pressed to find processed drinks like soda, sugar-sweetened juice, and sports drinks in a Blue Zone resident's fridge. But what you will find is some of the following tasty drinks—many of which are chock full of disease-fighting antioxidants and other key health-promoting nutrients.
1. Water
     Across all of the Blue Zones, it's common to serve water at meals—plus drink it in between throughout the day. "Water is essential for living longer because it helps the body eliminate toxins, maintain normal blood pressure, transport nutrients, balance electrolytes, and boost metabolism," says Nataly Komova, MS, RD at JustCBD. "Drinking enough water daily can improve how the body functions, increasing your lifespan in the long run." According to the Mayo Clinic, about 50% to 70% of your body is made up of water. Not only that, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it helps protect your spinal cord, lubricate and cushion your joints, and ensures your body maintains a normal temperature.

2. Black coffee
     "Coffee beans are full of antioxidants, polyphenols, and other anti-inflammatory agents, and may be associated with longevity and lower chronic disease risk," says Dana Ellis Hunnes, a senior RD at UCLA Medical Center and author of the new book Recipe For Survival. Sardinians, Ikarians, and Nicoyans are all known for being daily java drinkers. A 2018 study in Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases found that habitual coffee consumption is linked to reduced risks for cardiovascular death, coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, and stroke—as well as improvements in some cardiovascular risk factors, including type 2 diabetes and obesity. Not only that, but the research revealed chronic coffee consumption may protect against some neurodegenerative diseases and is associated with lower risks for liver disease and cancer. That said, it's important to note that adding heaps of sugar, cream, or flavored syrups to your drink can cancel out the health benefits of coffee—so do as the Blue Zoners do and drink it black. Or, if that tastes too bitter or acidic for you, just add a splash of almond or oat milk.
3. Red wine
     Some good news if you're a firm believer that wine elevates any good meal: Blue Zone residents— especially those in Sardinia and Icaria—don't tend to deprive themselves of a glass or two of high-quality, dry red. Specifically, Sardinians are known for enjoying a regional red called Cannonau, which boasts two to three times the flavonoids—antioxidants that help your body fend off everyday toxins and other potentially harmful molecules. According to Komova, red wine contains high amounts of resveratrol, an antioxidant that may help lower levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol, lower inflammation, and prevent damage to blood vessels.
Better yet, a 2018 study in the journal Diseases found a link between moderate alcohol consumption and lower risk of mortality, with the lowest mortality at one or two drinks per day. Remember, though, that less is more when it comes to wine drinking. If you exceed the recommended one glass per day as a woman or two as a man, the health risks may start to outweigh the benefits. "Though moderate drinking may have some health benefits, alcohol may also worsen certain health conditions," says Jeanette Kimszal, RD. "Also, the quality of alcohol in the Blue Zones may be better than in the U.S.—where wine may contain preservatives and additives that can affect the gut microbiome."
4. Green tea
     According to Hunnes, tea is a daily diet staple in many of the Blue Zones—particularly Okinawa, where residents can be found nursing a large serving of green tea all day long. "Green tea is high in catechins and polyphenols exhibiting antioxidant properties, which prevent diseases by fighting free radicals, regulating cholesterol, stabilizing blood pressure, and enhancing cell division," says Komova. "All these benefits prolong your lifespan." One 2007 study in Nutrition Reviews found that green tea consumption was associated with better overall cardiovascular health, while another 2017 review in Phytomedicine found a potential link between green tea consumption with improved memory.
As an added bonus, a 2013 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that drinking green tea may be able to significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels, thus helping to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, epigallocatechin gallate, a specific type of antioxidant in green tea, may help to inhibit cancer tumor growth, according to a 2011 study in Cancer Metastasis Review. Trying to limit your caffeine consumption? You can still reap many health benefits of tea—just take a cue from the Icarians and enjoy an herbal blend of anti-inflammatory rosemary, dandelion, and wild sage. Or, try the Sardinian go-to: milk thistle tea, which is believed to cleanse the liver.
5. Black tea
     Green tea may most of the attention for its antioxidant content, but don't underestimate the power of black tea, which research​​ has proven can offer many of the same disease-fighting benefits. Studies have shown that black tea can boost longevity in many different ways, including reducing blood sugar levels, reducing your risk of heart disease, improving cholesterol, helping you maintain a healthy gut by promoting good bacteria and inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria, decreasing blood pressure, preventing the spread of breast cancer tumors, and lowering your risk of stroke. In order to reap all of these perks without any potential pitfalls, drink your black tea the way a Blue Zone native would: without any added sweeteners. If you want to boost the flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon or some fresh mint.

Kenneth Davis

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND - by Marsha Burns

     Leave spiritual immaturity behind and grow up into the strong, unwavering, mature disciple that you were intended to be. Embrace all that I have prepared for you in My kingdom, since before the foundations of the earth. I have not only prepared the kingdom for you, but I have prepared you for the kingdom. Let maturity take its perfect course. Hebrews 5:12-14 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     Here is the amazing thing about Easter; the Resurrection Sunday for Christians is this, that Christ in the dying moments on the cross gives us the greatest illustration of forgiveness possible. I think it is important that we rebuild an atmosphere of forgiveness and civility in every aspect of our lives. We cannot embrace God's forgiveness if we are so busy clinging to past wounds and nursing old grudges. We think that forgiveness is weakness, but it's absolutely not; it takes a very strong person to forgive. I think the first step is to understand that forgiveness does not exonerate the perpetrator. Forgiveness liberates the victim. It's a gift you give yourself. If you learn how to forgive others for not being strong, then people can learn how to forgive you for your own issues.

~T. D. Jakes~

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     Sometimes in life,

when we really want something,

we can approach it in a way

that might actually be closing us off

from achieving it.

Getting older,

getting married,

buying a house,

becoming a different person...

I had to figure out

what my new motivations,

inspirations,

and goals were.

~Gretchen Bleiler~

Kenneth Davis

     Every man is a damn fool for at least five minutes every day; wisdom consists in not exceeding the limit. Know what you want to do, hold the thought firmly, and do every day what should be done, and every sunset will see you that much nearer to your goal. God will not look you over for medals degrees or diplomas, but for scars. ~Elbert Hubbard~

     Happy Birth Anniversary to you James! Celebrating your 70th birthday is an absolute blessing! Not many of our classmates have been blessed to see the day when they turn 70! But for those who do, it is probably the most special day of their personal lives. Happy 70th birthday! You are among the youngest souls I know. May you always be happy, healthy and prosperous. There's a Cherokee expression which says; When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice. As Elbert Hubbard an American writer and philosopher stated; Every man is a damn fool for at least five minutes every day; wisdom consists in not exceeding the limit. Today is your day to casually exceed the limit should you choose to. You've earned it. Your gained wisdom over the years will tell you when it's time to terminate the excitement. The blessed opportunity to enjoy retirement living is fantastic these days! You've already determined what you wanted to do in life, held your thoughts firmly, and achieved your goals before every sunset. You have your medals from the U.S. Air Force, an original diploma from BTW and your scars from 70 years of living.
    I believe that one defines oneself by reinvention. Keep your blood clean, your body lean, and your mind sharp. To not be like your parents. To not be like your friends. To be yourself. To cut yourself out of stone. If I had to live my life in anticipation of what others thought of me, little would get done. I think it is incumbent on anyone who can to lift human dignity to the highest possible levels, maintaining one's own and helping to raise that of others (Henry Rollins-American singer and activist). After graduation, you reinvented yourself, like most of us who joined the military....kept your blood clean, your body lean and your mind sharp...These were necessary while  chiseling ourselves out of the stone of complacency. Having made the decisions for reinvention of oneself, the world is better because you are here, just getting started on your 70th year. May you and your family enjoy the gifts of grace, mercy and favor today and in the future, as you strive toward celebration of your 71st.
     Henry Rollins also said that Jazz music is as American as it gets, and so is the U.S. Postal Service. A Miles Davis stamp is a perfect marriage of two great American institutions. Music keeps you young. Having music in your life keeps you open to things. For me, Memphis has always been a city that holds a great deal of meaning and also leads me to a lot of thinking. Besides Sun Studio, which helped put rock n' roll on the map all over the world, the legendary Stax Studio also called Memphis home. Can't help but agree with Henry on that statement. Stax was always the music in our lives back in the day. A desire to become a U.S. Postal Service Civil Servant in Memphis after military service, was among the many goals for us seeking federal employment. “For many are called, but few are chosen” Matthew 22:14 KJV. Hopefully music is still keeping you young at heart and open to things. As you celebrate today, or choose not to, I wish you a musical inspiration to be a damn fool for at least five minutes today. Here's a Brian Hughes composition, coming "Straight To You". Time to relax and have some "Soul Fruit" added to your celebration....enjoy your day and stay safe my friend...

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     You would not exist if you did not have something to bring to the table of life. Each human being exists because there's something they have to offer for the evolution of the universe that only they can fulfill. Sometimes you have to create a vision, a path for a vision. It may not be apparent, and you may have to forge it yourself. And that will be the way to move your life forward.

~Herbie Hancock~

Kenneth Davis

     “The work starts with a ‘yes.’ And you will be amazed by where a ‘yes’ to God will take you… The steps of a good man or woman are ordered by the Lord.” Those words from keynote speaker Dr. Gina M. Stewart, pastor of Christ Missionary Baptist Church and the first African-American female in Shelby County elected to pastor a Baptist church, set the stage for Stewart and 11 other female pastors to be honored as the “12 Most Outstanding Women in Ministry” Saturday April 2) at Grace M. B. Church. The designation was presented by Memphis Inter-Denominational Fellowship.

Memphis Inter-Denominational Fellowship recently put the focus on women in ministry during its "12 Most Outstanding Women" presentation. Seated (l-r): Rev. Dr. Cozette R. Garrett; Rev. Dr. Inetta F. Rogers; Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart; Rev. Christine Allen Glass; 2nd row (l-r): Rev. Mary E. Moore; Rev. Dr. Terri L. Strong; Rev. Dr. Deborah B. Smith; Rev. Dr. Rosalyn Regina Nichols; Rev. Dr. Lynn Bumpus Dandridge; Rev. Dr. DeLois E. Broady; 3rd row (l-r): Rev. Dr. Almella Y. Starks-Umoja; Rev. Marilynn S. Robinson; and Rev. Dr. DeBorah Luckett Day. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/ The New Tri-State Defender)

Dr. Rosalyn R. Nichols, pastor, and founder of Freedom Chapel Christian Church. She is also executive director of the Memphis Theological Seminary Starks Institute for Faith, Race, and Social Justice.

Dr. Almella Y. Starks-Umoja, an itinerant elder at St. James AME Church. She is a charter member of the Memphis Theological Seminary Starks Institute of Faith, Race, and Social Justice.

The Rev. Dr. Almella Y. Starks-Umoja is an ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AMEC) and has served as a pastor of several churches in the denomination. She is a native of Memphis,TN and graduate of the University of Memphis and Memphis Theological Seminary. She received her Doctor of Ministry degree from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL. Her passion for social justice began as a teenager when with her family she supported the Memphis Sanitation Strike. She continues pursuit of this passion as an active member of the Lynching Site Project of Memphis, TN. She isa charter member of the Dr. Henry Logan Starks Scholarship Awards Ceremony and the Starks Institute for Faith, Race, and Social Justice. She is a graduate of Leadership Memphis and a life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. The earth laughs in flowers. Flowers... are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world. Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful, for beauty is God's handwriting. 

~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Kenneth Davis

4 foods and drinks to limit for better health - Samantha Cassetty, RD

     In addition to understanding which foods are the healthiest ones for men, it's also important to highlight the foods and drinks that — when consumed regularly — can contribute to health problems. Here are four that men should only eat or drink in moderation, if at all.
1. Red and processed meat
Numerous studies have linked high intakes of these foods to a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease. If you eat red meat, consider eating it less often — and aim for smaller portion sizes.
2. Sweets and sweetened drinks
High amounts of added sugar can increase inflammation, which can eventually lead to heart disease and other illnesses. Men should aim for less than 36 grams of sugar per day.
3. Refined grains
Unlike whole grains, these grains lack fiber and the full spectrum of nutrients found in whole grains. Studies on heart disease and Type 2 diabetes suggest that replacing refined grains with whole grains lowers your risk for these conditions.
4. Alcohol
Men are more likely than women to drink excessively (excessive drinking for men is defined as regularly consuming more than 15 drinks per week or tossing back more than 5 drinks in a two-hour sitting), according to the CDC. Overdoing it exposes men to a higher risk of injuries and death as well as a higher risk of cancer. It’s also linked with male infertility, so there are lots of good reasons to keep your drinking in check.

Kenneth Davis

     Greetings Warrior Family! A few weeks ago, a BTW Connect event was held on the school grounds. Sponsored by our own Tyrone Mosley, the event proved to be a great day of fellowship. Although BTW graduates nationwide didn't attend as scheduled, local grads and friends showed up. Representation from the Classes of 1968 thru 1972 were in attendance. After reviewing, croping and editing approximately 75 images, I hope that you enjoy this selected few.

Joycelyn Lacy (Somerville)

Nice going!!!

I am loving the images!!!

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

The physical voice we use in prayer

need not be great nor startling;

even should we not lift up

any great cry or shout,

God will yet hear us.

~Origen~

IT'S THROW BACK THURSDAY

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane. You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength. The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature. ~Marcus Aurelius~

HAPPY EARTH DAY EVERYONE

The best time to plant a tree is twenty-five years ago.

The second best time is today.
-Unknown

Patricia White (Watson)

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

      Hear the words of prudence, give heed unto her counsels, and store them in thine heart; her maxims are universal, and all the virtues lean upon her; she is the guide and the mistress of human life. When virtue and modesty enlighten her charms, the lustre of a beautiful woman is brighter than the stars of heaven, and the influence of her power, it is in vain to resist. ~Akhenaton~

Kenneth Davis

 THOUGHT FOR CONSIDERATION

     Goodness is about character - integrity, honesty, kindness, generosity, moral courage, and the like. More than anything else, it is about how we treat other people. People confuse goodness with weakness. It is weak people, not good people (goodness demands strength), who are taken advantage of. Of all the characteristics needed for both a happy and morally decent life, none surpasses gratitude.

~Dennis Prager~

char·ac·ter /ˈker(ə)ktər/ noun

1. the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual: "Gerald Best was known to have character during our school days"

     Happy Birth Anniversary greetings to you Gerald!... Aka Senior Best, Aka Best in the West. I hope you have a wonderful birthday filled with love, joy, and great memories! For the sake of others, Senior Best is about your rank, as a member of the TN Air National Guard, not your age group. Best in the West, is not about the NBA Grizzles, but simply because you're located west of North Carolina. These were insider jokes, but now they're public knowledge. Commendably, what should be public knowledge is your goodness. Goodness is about character - integrity, honesty, kindness, generosity, moral courage, and the like. More than anything else, it is about how we treat other people. People confuse goodness with weakness. It is weak people, not good people (goodness demands strength), who are taken advantage of. Of all the characteristics needed for both a happy and morally decent life, none surpasses gratitude ( Dennis Prager). It's been my past fortune to march around the BTW asphalt grinder and football field, to the music from your French horn and other instruments, during our Army ROTC days. An even greater event, was to also serve our state and nation along side you, as a member of the TN Air National Guard.  As the embodiment of the Air Force core values; Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do was the creed we lived by, as we provided invaluable security to our nation, not only on the homeland, but also to fellow ground troops in combat.

     As we survey nations at war these days, I'm grateful that most members of the Class of 1970 who served, returned home safely from our tours of duty. Life is hard as it is. Too many rough roads to travel, too many chains to untangle. But no matter how cruel the world may be, life becomes less hard when you got a good friend. A friend accepts us as we are, yet helps us be what we should be; a friend affirms us when we’re weak and gives us strength to let us free. Dennis also stated; If anything, we older people yearn for a peaceful world, even more than young people do. We are the ones who lost friends or relatives in some war. We are the ones who have lived a lifetime of seeing and reading about human suffering. The fact is, that not only do people get more wise and more conservative as they get older, they get more kind and more generous, too. With friends, as in life, there are three constants....change, choice and principles. Remember, we are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience. Our character is basically a composite of our habits. Because they are consistent, often unconcious patterns, they constantly, daily, express our character (Stephen Covey). As Stephen indicated, we are spiritual beings having a human experiance. As we've shared a friendship over the years, I submit to you, one friend to another, these comforting words found in Joshua 1:9. Not only to you, but for all our friends who seek to live a good life and overcome their own unique challanges; Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Benjamin Franklin told us to "Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man". Bruce Lee once said "The key to immortality is first living a life worth remembering". May this new birth anniversary find you a better man, living a life worth remembering. Thanks again for your support to extend the life of our website and the encouragement you provide to all, who choose to listen. May this cornerstone achievement of a milestone blessing, cause you to be more grateful and happier. Grateful people are more morally decent, as they age. Should you celebrate today, or choose not to, I wish you a Bishop Paul S Morton Sr, type of day. Today and the many days ahead, “Be Blessed” my brother….enjoy your day and stay safe…sorry bruh, I'm on the road and youtube is not available...I'll add the video later...Brother Gerald, here's the song selection, as promised...while you're "Still Standing", "Be Blessed"....

Kenneth Davis

 T H O U G H T   F O R   C O N S I D E R A T I O N 

     Getting people to like you is merely the other side of liking them. When you pray for anyone you tend to modify your personal attitude toward him. The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism. Change yourself and your work will seem different. Change your thoughts and you change your world. The more you lose yourself in something bigger than yourself, the more energy you will have. 

  ~Norman Vincent Peale~

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND
by Marsha Burns

     It is hard to find your footing in the midst of uncertainty and danger. But you must remember that I am your place of safety, your port in the storm. Come to Me for wisdom, direction and comfort. Find solace in Me. Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?