When I say I am a Christian

On this lovely day of Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, it is time to reflect on ourselves as Christians. 

It is particularly challenging when you are catholic. 

Some people have asked me over the years if we are true Christians and why we worship Mary, Mother of God. At first, I used to get annoyed, but now I simply answer them and say "I don't worship her, I venerate her".

 But what is the difference, one might ask? I simply regard our lady with reverence and respect.

I want to share with you a poem that I saw on the net that encompasses mostly how I think of myself as a Christian. 

When I say that 'I am a Christian', I am not shouting that 'I am clean living. I'm whispering, 'I was lost, but now I'm found and forgiven.'

When I say, 'I am a Christian', I don't speak of this with pride. I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.

When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not bragging of success. I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not claiming to be perfect. My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.

When I say 'I am a Christian', I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.

When I say 'I am a Christian', I'm not holier than thou, I'm just a simple sinner who received God's good grace, somehow!

Its February so love love love

Hiya

It's February, the month of love

Many of us are preparing for Valentine's Day to give Love to our loved ones.

It's time to reflect not just on our love for others, but for one self and one's ability to do things in this life without inhibitions. Like Sugar Ray Robinson says, "To be a champion, you have to believe in yourself when no one else will".  In other words, embrace the champion that you are, believe in yourself and know that you are worth it. Believe you me, you can only give love to others when you love yourself.

In the US, it's also Black History month, a time to reflect on the achievements of Black Americans in general.  As a woman of colour, it's challenging sometimes when we know that we cannot progress due to discrimination and the colour of your skin, and sometimes we feel helpless. You only have to look at the recent Monique situation with pay in the entertainment industry and sigh. However, in this game of life, it does not matter what hands that you are dealt, but how you play them.

I came across a poem that I will share with you that motivates me every time that I question myself and my abilities as a woman and woman of colour.  Enjoy.