Charles Reese "Channels" Baldwin

 Charles Reese will present "James Baldwin: A Soul On Fire" at the Enoch Pratt Central Library Poe Room this Saturday, 2/16 at 2 PM.  Let's pack the house! Reese is a performing artist, educator and Moorehouse alumnus, who is based in Los Angeles. This event promises to be an electrifying portrayal of the  famed American writer and civil rights activist. Audience participation is not only encouraged, but demanded by Reese, who is a talented and engaging. 

 

 The Salon will include animated readings from "James Baldwin: A Soul on Fire," a book version of  the critically acclaimed Off Broadway Play, written by the late Howard B. Simon.  Reese, not only starred in the play, he actually brought Baldwin to life in an amazing fashion.  The production was described as "funny, thrilling and wise, bouyed by the passionate performance of Reese in the title role." 

 

Reese will also lead a discussion on  Baldwin's importance as a writer and civil right's activist.  The effects of Baldwin's homosexuality on his life and work will also be explored.   After the death of the playwright, who was a fellow Moorehouse alumnus, Reese had the opportunity to edit the book which resulted from the play. Autographed copies will be available at the event. 

 

The book and play explore Baldwin's tumultuous thoughts as he prepares for a secret meeting with Attorney General Robert Kennedy in New York on May 24, 1963. The purpose of the meeting-which took place three months before the famous March On Washington- was to discuss race relations in America.  Also in attendance were Harry Belafonte, Lorraine Hansberry, Lena Horne, Dr. Kenneth Clarke and a young freedom fighter, Jerome Smith, among others. 

Charles Reese kicked off "Free Fall Baltimore" a few months ago at Studio Kafi, 1917 St. Paul St.



 

It is Reese's great pleasure to pay tribute to the brillant author during this special year that marks the 50th Annivesary of Baldwin's important meeting with Kennedy, as well as the publication of his searing essay, "The Fire Next Time."

 

I recently attended  a presentation by Januwa Moja at Paula Whaley's Gallery on Charles St.  Paula Whaley is Baldwin's youngest sister and has made Baltimore her home.  She is a fabulous artist in her own right, and her "soft sculpture art" is pervaded by the essence of healing energy. 

 

 I was driving and had almost arrived at the event, when I first laid eyes on Charles Reese.  He cut quite a figure as he strolled up Charles St.!  Even after I passed him, I peered  curiously at him through my rearview mirror.  He clearly was not one of the homeless people I was used to seeing in the area.  He was oozing with character and appeared to be enjoying the brisk autumn air as he took in the sights and sounds of Charm City.  At the time I had no idea that he was a kindred Spirit, whom I would come to claim as a brother.  I wasn't at all surprised to see him enter the Gallery a few minutes later, and begin to talk animatedly with everyone he met.

 

Aside from enjoying Januwa's presentation of her fashion show video from her trip to Cuba, Reese was there to announce that his Baldwin Salon would be held the next evening at The Kafi Studio.  He was so engaging that just about everyone in attendance also made their way to his event. 

It was a fabulous evening that began with a showing of historic video from the play, and included an enthusiastic call and response between Reese and the audience followed by his literary performance.  Talented performer/educator Koli Tengella and his equally expressive wife Dr. Renee Tengella also presented spirited Baldwin readings.  WEAA Talk Show Host, Anthony McCarthy made a special appearance and joined in the discussion.

 

Among those present at the standing room only event was Reporter/Producer, Charles Robinson from Maryland Public Television; Graphic Artist Kylis Winborne and his wife, who was preparing for an exhibit at Eubie Blake; Public Relations expert, Caprece Jackson-Garett; Photographer Anderson Ward; Dr. Martina Callum, M.D.; Entrepreuer, Rose Blyther; and Sheila Hatcher.

Michael Beckwith & Rickie BB Inspire

Drs. Michael & Rickie Beckwith Inspire!!!

By Paula Bernette Brooks

"Treasures" from Belize grace my table

It's hard to believe that I haven't posted since April!  At the time,  I was super excited about an upcoming trip to Puerto Rico in August. Well, the trip was cancelled at the 11th hour!  Needless to say, my two fellow adventurers and I were highly disappointed!  You'll have to read my next post to get the 411 on how Dr. Donna Shannon and I ended up in Belize a week later.  Tune in next week!  Hint!  We loved Belize and had a trip chock full of serendipitous meetings and spiritual overtones!



But first I HAVE to tell you about the two days we spent at "Revolve Evolve 2012" featuring Drs. Michael and Rickie Byars Beckwith!  The high energy opened the floodgates of my creativity and motivated me to write again.  I had to share this because you too, Beloveds, deserve to be uplifted, inspired, and set free as you open to your Divine purpose!  The event was produced by "I Will Restore", a non-profit that provides services including Counseling, Advocacy, Education & Training, and Workforce Development.  Visit Revolve-Evolve on Facebook, or email info@iwillrestore.org.  For more information call 410-299-6688.


Dr. Beckwith & event producer, Dr. Dennis L. Waters, Sr.

Rickie BB performs

 Dr. Michael Bernard Beckwith and his soulful, songwriting wife, affectionately known as Rickie BB, are well known to those in the "New Thought" movement.  Michael was featured in the movie "The Secret" based on the book by the same name, that describes the Law of Attraction. Together, they took the world by storm several years ago. Beckwith,  once affiliated with Dr. Ernest Holmes "Centers for Spiritual Living", founded "Agape International Spiritual Center" in Culver City, California in 1986.  True to its name, Agape was founded on the principle of unconditional love; without regard for race, gender, sexual preference or denominational differences.   Through Beckwith's "Life Visioning" process, Agape has evolved from a Divine idea, to a mega-center with  over 8,000 members!

I have long been a passionate Rickie Byars Beckwith fan!  Her music resonated with my spirit the very first time I heard her "From Within" CD.  By the time I heard "In the Land of I Am" I was hooked!   Whenever stressed, Rickie's music was guaranteed to soothe my soul.  In fact, I played both CDs every morning while teaching at Job Corps.  That time was intended to be my solitary, centering A.M. ritual time. However, quite a few of my students would beg me to let them come in before class.  They were also were calmed down by the peaceful vibes of the music!

Watching Michael and Rickie interact, one can only conclude that they are true soul mates.  They complement each other beautifully!  Michael is a dynamic teacher and Rickie is a gifted musician. Both are grounded by their commitment to a daily regimen that includes prayer, meditation, physical exercise and vegan nourishment.

Together they are on a mission to raise the energetic vibration of the planet, by causing a radical shift in spiritual perceptions.  Their message is one of unbounded love and personal transformation; resulting in unshakable inner peace and personal power!  The power of their message is strengthened by the combination of Michael's eloquent delivery and Rickie's soul stirring music.



Rickie BB, Nicolle Reed & Michael Beckwith

One of Dr. Beckwith's  key points was that the Universe is constantly progressing and unfolding.  He urged us to stop trying to "make" things happen and stated with conviction, "Instead of praying to God to 'get', pray to 'let'.  Let whatever you already have unfold!  There is something seeking to express itself through you.  We don't have to beg. We're not reaching out-we're turning within.  'Emergence' (of our gifts and desires) occurs when the conditions are correct.   We get to create the climate and conditions needed for it to emerge.  We must set our intentions.  Many of us are suffering from 'Intention Deficit Disorder'!"

Beckwith stated that behind every problem is a question trying to ask itself.  He suggested that we ask the right questions instead of staying stuck in "victim hood".   Some questions he proposed we ask ourselves are: "What 'Good' is trying to happen in my life right now?  What is God's idea of expression in my life?  What must I become in order for this good to manifest?  What do I already have in my house that I can use to manifest or be in service to my growing vision?  What must I let go of now that no longer serves me, or my becoming?" He also stated that many of us desire to change our lives, without changing anything about ourselves (boy, can I relate to that!).

Rev. Michael Beckwith

Dr. Beckwith proposed that for years we have lived believing in the fallacy of "cause and effect".  He stated with conviction that this way of thinking has led us to a false notion of separation from God and each other.  Based on this premise, no two things can occupy the same space at the same time.  However, Dr. Beckwith explained that nothing could be further from the truth.  He stated vehemently, "We live in a state of 'condensation' where two things can, and do co-exist at the same time and space, but in different dimensions."

Beckwith urged that we return to right thinking, rather than "mentation", or the repetition of the the same thoughts (usually toxic) over and over.  He stated, "Prayer and meditation are powerful tools for anti-aging.  When we engage in these practices, we step outside of time and space.  We are no longer limited by our perceptions.  We realize that we are more than our flesh.  Like our Creator, we are infinite, everywhere present, yet always unfolding.  We have access to higher realms!"  Beckwith suggested that in this unified field of consciousness, our discipline becomes a "bliss-cipline" and we are able to hold onto inner peace and joy regardless of outer conditions.  He urged that we practice what he calls "play-volving" or joyfully evolving through playing.  

He also suggested that when we become annoyed, irritated or angry, we use the forceful energy behind those emotions for our good.  Instead of cursing, kicking and screaming, Beckwith suggested that we turn it around and channel that intense energy into visioning questions like, "Why do I always have so much money?  Why am I so loved and appreciated?"  We should then continue by  affirming things like "I am willing!  I am able!  I am capable!"  Dr. Beckwith stated that our life experiences are the "manure" that prompts growth. As we evolve, the questions become, "How can I grow?  How can I give?  How can I celebrate?"

At the end of the event, I purchased his "Life Visioning" kit and  book.  At the last minute, I  broke down and bought his "TranscenDance" CD.   Soooo glad I did-the CD is awesome!  "MC" Beckwith and guest artists have taken positive thinking and affirmations to a whole nutha level!  They laid down some funky tracks that will get you movin' and groovin', and most importantly,  provide your subconscious with a succulent feast.  Thoughts of prosperity and !abundance will become second nature.  Get this CD by any means necessary!  Play it LOUDLY in the AM and PM!  For info on the Beckwith's products, appearances or broadcasts see www.agapelive.com.   See also www.rickiebyarsbeckwith.com.

Wellness Coach, Rev. Zuri Nia and Donna Shannon

Day two of the event began with several early morning seminars.  Donna and I opted to attend the  "Chakra Meditation and Healing Crystal Bowls" session led by D.C.'s Rev. Zuri Nia, founder of "Wellness With Zuri Nia--A Center for Soul Expression". See www.wellnesswithzurinia.com; 202-320-1599

She was lovingly assisted by Life Coaches/Trainers, Tamara Carey, LSW and Halina Azmerah, founders of "Journey to Self".  See www.journeytoself.biz or call 800-734-8705 for more info.  All three sistahs are badd!  The session was an awesome preamble to the Beckwith's "Life Visioning" technique.  We meditated, danced and generally opened to Spirit.  The process was very healing.  When it was over we felt energized, as well as serene!



Tamara Carey holding "rain stick"; Rev. Zuri Nia, and Halina Azmerah in front of the crystal singing bowls.

We also had the pleasure of meeting Ayo Handy-Kendi, radio host of "The Saging Baby Boomers Show".  Ayo says the show offers good news about boomers who are not just, aging but saging-or growing wiser as we age.  Listen in on Thursday 11 AM at www.innerlightradio.com.  For more information see www.sagingbabyboomers.com or call 202-667-2577.  Ayo was accompanied by her unbelievably spry and youthful, 87 year old mother, Ms. Doris A. M. Thomas.  Ms Thomas is founder of the Serenity Players Club, Actress, Dancer, Author, Motivational Speaker and former Yoga Instructor.  Whew!  Did I mention she was Ms. D.C. Senior 1992?  Both mother and daughter attended the Chakra Meditation session.   Ms. Thomas' agility and vitality were a testament to the benefits of a yoga practice that spanned decades!  See www.createandplayit.com or call 202-575-4248 to purchase her second book, "The Will to Live".

Ayo Handy-Kendi and her 87 year young mother, Ms. Doris A. M. Thomas

 

Also on hand, was "Fruition", providing their own unique flavor of "New Thought Jazz" to the event.  They will be performing on Nov. 10th from 6-8 PM at One God One Thought Center for Better Living.   They will showcase music from their CD, "A Conscious Matter", as well as some new material.  You can call Aaron Hill at 443-756-6027 or email aaronhill28@comcast.net for more info.


"On Purpose Woman" the free Maryland based magazine dedicated to helping women lead richer, fuller lives was a Media sponsor.  Publisher/Editor Ginny Robertson was on hand distributing magazines and information about her networking sessions for women.  For more info see www.GinnyRobertson.com or call 410-252-2703.  WPFW-Jazz & Justice Radio 89.3 FM  was the radio sponsor.  Be sure to listen in and support this innovative and empowering  public radio station.

Fruition "Family", Eunice Adkins, Ama Chandra, Katrina Hill & Aaron Hill



Event Co-Producers, Dr. Dennis Waters & his wife, Vielka Waters

Rickie BB, Paula Brooks & Michael Beckwith

Mishinda Parvenu & Donna Shannon



Halina Azmera & Tamara Carey

Gerri Bohannan & Michael Beckwith

Rickie BB, Gerri Bohannan & Michael Beckwith

Preparing for “Paradise”

Preparing for “Paradise”

By Paula Bernette Brooks

Paula Bernette Brooks

        I’m relatively new to Face Book, and as I began to tentatively reach out to old friends, I came across Chef Skai, aka Skai Juice.  I remembered the enterprising young lady and her 5 children fondly.  While living in Baltimore she proudly rolled out The Yabba Pot Vegetarian Restaurant and at one point even had two locations. I admired her dogged determination, entrepreneurial spirit, and zeal for all things vegan.

 Skai was a sponge for information about natural health and wellness and she kindly squeezed and poured it out at in house seminars, catering events or one-on-one conversations.  Watching her, one would conclude that lovingly raising five children and imbuing them with a strong work ethic, while nurturing a fledgling business was as easy as-well, dairy free, sugar free, rhubarb pie!

Chef Skai preparing her beloved greens

I lost track of her when Skai sold the business and moved out of town.  So I was happy when I found her on Face Book and started reading her posts.  Skai and her husband had moved to Puerto Rico and opened “Paradise Wellness”, a raw food retreat specializing in a 5-10 day detox program that appeared to be so much fun!   I was totally intrigued because Skai had made an amazing transformation.  Not only had she lost weight, but she was radiant! I mean positively glowing.  Posts of her raw food creations were so colorful and fabulous; they almost looked too good to eat!   It was also quite clear that Skai, like the hibiscus and abundance of other gorgeous tropical flowers, was blossoming and in her element. Hiking in the Rain Forest by an energizing waterfall, horseback riding on a tranquil beach, yoga, kayaking-and let’s not forget salsa dancing-clearly were all agreeing with her.  Watching her “living her life like its golden”, while I sat at my computer, I began to wonder if some time in “Paradise” might also enliven a sistah like me!

Chef Skai, "We are fruitarians by nature!" Yummy!

Titilayo on our last trip to Jamaica

Thanks to one of my oldest sistah/friends, Titilayo, who’s been vegetarian “since Hector was a pup”; I was already quite familiar with the benefits of a meatless lifestyle.  Although we’re the same age, she looks about 10 years younger.  I haven’t eaten red meat in at least 30 years, and go through periods of, “to chicken, or not to chicken”.  But I realized that going totally raw-and more importantly-sugarless, even for a week would be taking a major step.  However, pictures of Chef Skai’s table always look so inviting that I decided I could do a week easily. 

Chef Skai prepares ? (I don't have a clue what that is!)

One day, following a meditation, the notion of going to “Paradise” with a group of sistahs and documenting our experience became a burning desire!   A couple of friends also thought it was a great idea, so I eagerly began planning the trip.

      Recently, I got a call from Skai who said cautiously, “I just wanted to be sure that everyone in your party is aware that their experience will be holistic.  Not only will you be eating live, whole foods, you’ll be exposed to lots of physical activity.  It’s important that knees and hips are in good shape, in order to take part in all the activities.  We recently had two elders in a group who were not able to participate fully, due to physical limitations.  We do everything as a group, and it’s no fun to sit around and wait for everyone to return to the hotel.”

My stomach knotted in anguish and I confessed to Skai that I had fallen hard last May, injuring both knees and an ankle.  Surprisingly, they still bother me.  I am also obese, but recently committed to taking small steps; like walking daily and eating more fruit and salad.   However, at that moment I resolved that I would not be the one sitting on the sidelines while everyone else was off having adventurous fun! 

     Without hesitation, Skai said, “Get a multi-floral enzyme with a probiotic, and add lots of fruit and raw veggies to your diet.  I’m not big on supplements, but I definitely recommend enzymes.  They will help break down your food so that your body can absorb the nutrients needed to heal itself.  But there is a side effect!” Skai paused dramatically before continuing, “Do you want to know what it is?  The side effect is weight loss!” We both laughed hard, knowing that she now had my full attention!

Chef Skai-Fabulous mother of 5!

    Skai’s tone and intensity made it clear that optimal wellness is her passion.  “We are sicker than we’ve ever been.  We’ve been able to eliminate diseases  like the bubonic plague, yet we’re dying younger from ailments like diabetes and high blood pressure.  These diseases are caused by the way we eat and the lack of physical activity. It’s not normal to be sick!  True health is achieved not only by eating whole live foods and getting exercise, but also by positive thoughts about ourselves and other people; by having and showing gratitude! The combination of these things equals a good quality of life.  You feel happy, energized and alive!”

While presenting recently at a conference of Rasta women in St. Thomas, Skai stayed with friends.    Skai declared, “It doesn’t have to be complicated.  Keep it simple. Buy bananas and strawberries.  They can be blended with water.  Bananas and strawberries are the best whole foods you can buy.  My friends called me after I got home and thanked me because their energy had really increased.  They ate a salad for lunch and included fish or chicken with their dinner.  But they could feel the difference.”

     Chef Skai also offered this advice, “Whenever people complain that they are fatigued, have lots of mucous, or just don’t feel good for any reason, I suggest that they fast.  Fasting gives the body time to throw off disease and toxins.  I met a naturopath who is now 70 years old.  Back in the 80’s he was told that he had cancer and was not expected to live much longer.  He was very weak, but he happened upon a little pamphlet extolling the benefits of fasting.  He decided he had nothing to lose and for 17 days he drank only water.  At the end of that time he had stopped drinking altogether and he would just put a little water in his mouth to relieve the dryness.  On the last day he felt so much better that he was able to get out of bed and he went to a health food store.  He had been too sick to bathe for over 2 weeks and he apologized, sure that he had a bad odor.  To his surprise, he was told that he did not smell at all!  He stayed at my retreat recently and although toothless, he enjoyed the raw food regimen and was even able to eat my kale salad.  It’s prepared with lemon juice, which breaks its down and makes it tender.”

     Our conversation ended with these last words of wisdom from Skai Juice, “Just like a car, our bodies need fuel in order to give us energy.  We need carbohydrates, fats and foods that are highly enzymatic, whole and alkaline.  Fruit is our best form of energy.  Bananas and  berries of any kind are super foods.  Humans are fruitarian by nature.  We take nature for granted, but nature is perfect!  All we have to do is follow the laws.  I haven’t been to a doctor in years!  I have no need.  My garden is my doctor!”

“I keep having a vision in my mind of being naked in the bush.  Farming is relatively new; maybe about 10,000 years old.  Initially, humans were gatherers.   I think that sometime in the future we will start all over and go back to the beginning.  Remember there was fruit in the Garden of Eden.”

Our trip to “Paradise Wellness” will take place from August 1-August 7.  Contact me If you’d like to take part in our adventurous and blissful detox from cooked food- and all types of everyday stress! 

My e-mail address is isis7233@yahoo.com.  You can also call me for further information at 443-804-7974.  Peace & Blessings!

Chef Skai & Retreat Guest

AAAHHHAAA! God's Got Me!

Paula Bernette Brooks

     Love and Light to All!  I had a SERIOUS Aaahhhaaa moment recently when I was fired from my job!  The scene in HR seemed surreal to me as I listened to the HR Manager tell me that she had no choice but to terminate me.  I had been taking classes toward my teacher certification, but my last waiver to teach without it had been denied.  I felt numb and glanced over at my supervisor.  In his spare time he's a happy go lucky biker, but his eyes were now bloodshot and bright with tears.  He assured me that he would give me a good reference and stated how sorry he was to lose me.

    Strangely,  I felt a curious mixture of anxiety and relief.  It seemed as though a great weight had lifted and  a sense of peace and relief washed over me.  Of course I had fleeting thoughts of my mortgage payment and other bills, as Ms. HR continued what sounded to me like "blah, blah blah".  But the overwhelming emotion was "light-heartedness," as the sun managed to break through the room's heavy draperies like a bright omen of things to come.
    
     Walking back to my classroom to pack up the many books and belongings accumulated over my 5 year tenure, I was greeted by students with hugs and loving cries of "Hi Ms. Brooks"!  I felt the first pangs of sadness, knowing that I would really miss them.  Several said they were coming to see me Monday, and I couldn't bear to tell them I wouldn't be there.  Hurriedly, I said my goodbyes to my former co-workers, as they helped me pack.   I tried to stay "mindful" and in the moment, as I took my last drive down that winding country road toward home.  The autumn day was unseasonably warm and absolutely magnificent.  Sunlight gleamed through the dense foliage, illuminating the spectacular red and gold leaves of the trees overhanging the road.

      My Aaahhhaaa moment began as I sat quietly in my living room and realized that "God's got me"! I reflected on how far He/She had brought me during my almost 15 years clean. I knew that the ending of my "Divine Assignment" at Job Corps had ended in God's time-not mine.  I thought back to the end of my active addiction, when I contemplated suicide, overwhelmed by feelings of desolation and despair. I had cried out with that simple, yet most powerful of prayers-"GOD HELP ME"!  Indeed, since that moment, I have been continually blessed beyond my greatest expectations.  My life is truly a study in Grace and Mercy.

    I fast forwarded back to my present situation.  After falling and injuring myself at work in May, I returned to the job 5 months later, only to find out nothing had changed.  Back for little over a month, I felt like I was treading water again.  I seemed to be drowning in an ocean of too many tasks, and not enough time to complete them.  I had no time to nurture myself with exercise and healthy food preparation. The week-ends flashed by in a blur, and then it was time to start the breakneck cycle all over again.  I had no time to BREATHE.   I  longed for, and envisioned a life where I "worked to live, instead of living to work". The Universe responded by doing for me, what I was too afraid to do for myself.

Pauline Brooks, boutique owner

 

    Reflecting on my recent unemployment, a Wave of Gratitude engulfed me!  I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that angels walk with me daily.  Instead of being fearful, I must embrace this new stage of transition and the infinite possibilities that lie ahead.  I had told myself that I wanted to write. Out of the blue, based on a friend's recommendation, a young lady brought me her book to edit.  Another sistah asked me to write an article on my mother, Pauline Brooks, for her magazine.  I will also be doing a presentation on  Pauline Brooks, retail pioneer, on February 4th at the Reggie Lewis Museum.

      I understand that my heart and mind must remain open to Spirit!  This is the only way my steps can be directed to create the life of my dreams.  I know that I am a loving and talented spiritual being, on temporary assignment here on Earth.  I deserve-as we all do-to have a job that appreciates and honors me for the gifts I bring to the table and also affords me the opportunity to be in service.  In short, a job that I love and look forward to going to every day. 

     Please stay tuned for my next post, which will be about my beloved "Butterflies Emerge" program.  I need to find a new home/sponsor for the group.  I started it to help young women fall passionately in love with themselves, and make positive lifestyle choices.  I now know that working with young women and helping raise their quality of life is my life's purpose.  In so doing, the lives of their children and families will be positively impacted as well.  I look forward to hearing any ideas, suggestions or assistance you can provide!

"Butterflies" on visit to NYC to see play "Langston in Harlem".

Play's cast included my "nephew", talented Baltimore native Jonathan Burke and Josh Tower as Langston.

I'd like to leave you with some encouraging words to consider from the November Science of Mind magazine. 

"And from such daily meditation, he (she) should venture forth into a life of action, with the will to do, the determination to be, and a joy in becoming!"  The Science of Mind, pg. 168

"Where there is a will, there is a wall.  Where there is willingness, there is a way." Michael Bernard Beckwith

"We must trust in the Invisible, for It is the sole cause of that which is visible...."

Namaste!

Mama Tabulah's 65th Earthday!

Sandra Pretlow and Mama Tabulah

 I recently attended the 65th "Earthday" celebration of Mama Vivian "Tabulah" Adigun. The high energy of the elders in attendance was contagious! At 65, 75, 85, & yes, even 95 years of age-they still exhibited a wonderful zest for living! 

Taulah dances while Baba Omawalie and guests look on.

The lively celebration was held at the Memorial Garden Senior Apts. in Bolton Hill. Mama Tabulah is an esteemed African Dance instructor who lived in "Cali" for many years and studied under Eartha Kitt. The spirit of her internationally reknowned mentor clearly lives on in Mama Taulah. The gorgeous, fabulously fit, sister lit up the room with her constant flow of sexy, Afro-centric movements. Mama Tabulah has the high energy of a 20 year old, combined with decades of experience! Wow! She was stunning in a white lace tunic spangled with silver paillettes, over a long white dress with a thigh high slit. At her request, most of the attendees also wore white, which elevated the affair to a high spiritual level.

Seniors enjoyed good food, fellowshipping and hand dancing to old school doo wop which was the order of the evening, until the reggae beat began to reverberate through the room. Then it was on! The energy went right through the roof when brother Kaki (well known local artist, Robert Mcqueen), his sister Inora McQueen (poet, musician & cultural historian), Tabulah's close friend, Sandra Pretlow, and Mocko Jumbi (or stilt walker), Brother Bilal, began drumming as if their lives depended on it!

It was clear that the primal rhythms were intensely felt by all. Talk about therapeutic! One 95 year old brother stayed on the dance floor and amazingly kept up with every move thrown on him by Sister Sandra. Elders and youngsters-those of us below 60-took to the floor and danced with the abandon of children that don't care who's watching! Check out the pix below!

95 year old elder keeps up with Sandra's every move

Tabulah and her aunt

85 year old elder pose with Sandra after "shaking a leg" in 3 inch heels!

Chalene Johnson, Sandra Pretlow, Tabulah Adigun, Abiola Olabasi & Inora McQueen

Welcome to Divine Reflections!

Paula Brooks

The creation of this blog has been on my heart for years.  One thing that  I KNOW for sure, is "Everything is in DIVINE ORDER"! Everything I've done-or not done, has led up to this moment.  For years I have been dismayed by the amount of negativity portrayed by the news media-especially as it relates to people of color. I feel compelled to document our POSITVE experiences-those things no matter how small, that add richness and meaning to our lives.  Hence, the birth of "Divine Reflections".  This blog is about the spark of Divinity that resides in each of us, and the positive, creative ways we choose to manifest our God given talents, and express our life's purpose. 

So this space is about my perspectives, but more importantly, it's about my encounters with you!  I now know that I am a story-teller by birth.  I love using words to paint pictures, and this space is devoted to telling your stories. I look forward to hearing from you! If you have an event that you'd like to have documented, or if you have a story that will uplift and inspire, I'd love to let our community know about it!

Pauline Brooks

Two things inspired me to finally begin this blog.  The first was my take on the movie "The Help".  I left the theater feeling so encouraged!  I reflected on how far we've come as a people, and especially as African-American  women.  I remembered hearing my own mother, Pauline Brooks, describe the years she spent working as a domestic. Yet she courageously followed her dream of owning a women's retail clothing store.  At that time it was unheard of for a black woman to knock on showroom doors in New York.  Despite blatant and covert racism, she opened her store in 1953 and managed to keep it open for 35 years.                                                                                                             

Then I thought about how Aibileen, the lead character in the movie, must have felt as she walked down that long, dark road at the end.  Although she had been fired, she knew she had out-grown her dead end job.   Her heart must have fluttered at the knowledge that God had greater works in store for her.  She had already broken down a huge barrier by giving a voice to "the help"-poor, uneducated women who had never even been asked what they thought, or how they felt about anything.   I'm sure she was fearful and anxious, but her spirit must have soared at the prospect of taking another step into uncharted territory.  She knew it was time to pursue her dream of becoming a writer.

Hope to hear from you soon!  Namaste' (I behold the light in you)!