NOT THE SHARPEST KNIFE IN THE DRAWER

By Vernalee

Are you one of those folks who think that "you are all that and a bag of chips?" Of course, you don’t have to answer that question. We often deny who we really are anyway.

We can see straight through other people with X-Ray vision though. "I ain’t mad at ya!" That's your issue, not mine. But before we move on, allow me to share aged old illuminating admonition that was told to me many moons ago. Here goes. Stay humble! Keep your feet on solid ground! What goes up may come down! Don’t let what you have change who you are! Don’t elevate your level of importance or put your arrogant head in the clouds, and look down on others. What you see on the outside is not always what lies within! Having said that, it's high time that we stop underestimating folks because they don't speak with the most elegant words or behave with pristine etiquette! In fact, many folks have labeled and given them catchy descriptions; one liners in fact. They refer to them as - * Dumb as a bag of nails and a box of rocks. * The light’s on but no one’s home. * A few cards short of a deck. * A few fries short of a Happy Meal. * The elevator doesn’t go all the way to the top floor, … and of course - * Not the sharpest knife in the drawer.

Stop! Don't be fooled! They may not be the cream of the crop, but their common sense may put them light years ahead or equal to the academic greats with their street savvy. Much their eyes have seen! Common sense is their strong suit. You probably know some of these folks. I proudly know many. So be careful! They let the name calling roll off their backs. The streets have toughen them up and granted them immunity. “Sticks and stones may break their bones, but names will never hurt them!”

Therefore, don’t disregard what they know! Don’t underestimate their intelligence.

When it comes to mother wit, they wrote the book … and can run circles around the best! Watch it! They may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but their blade still cuts! Photo credit: www.shapedbyfaith.com

THE FOURTH OF JULY

By Vernalee

This year has been a great revelation of discoveries and navigation into history - particularly Black History. With today being the Fourth of July, it may be worth it to hear the words of Frederick Douglass spoken by the legendary James Earl Jones in his rendition of "What to the slave is the 4th of July?"

Knowing our history is eye opening and empowering.

CROSS THAT BRIDGE WHEN YOU GET THERE

By Vernalee

Life’s travels take us down many roads. Some roads are paved (None in gold that I have seen; only I wish); others not. Arriving to our destination is the primary objective. Hills, valleys, and bridges we encounter along the way. To “Cross that bridge when you get there” means to not worry about a possible future problem, but deal with it when and if it occurs." Why worry about issues that don’t exist or haven’t happened? Besides, some may not occur.

One of our childhood chats was, “Weight brought the bridge crumbling down.”

Likewise, stress and worry produce weighty consequences. They can take their toll, become “heavy” burdens placed on our shoulders and problems that we carry around. Oh, my aching back! Anxieties and sleepless nights can follow.

What's the antidote? It's simple. Enjoy the moment! Reasonably, prepare for tomorrow; live for today! Deal with problems when and if they occur. The scriptures in Matthew 6:34 tells us: “Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Finding the balance is achievable, but is not always easy. We are encouraged to “let go and let God!” Try it and see the positive results! It’s definitely worth the wait as it will alleviate the weight!

Photo credit: www.en.wikipedia.org – Greenville, Mississippi Bridge.