In the past couple of weeks, I’ve either had conversations with or have come across friends posting about loved ones unexpectedly transitioning. I’ve experienced a common theme with each conversation/post. That is that with each life that has passed there is a wake-up call and a longing self-analysis of how one is living. The constant reminder is that tomorrow is not promised, life is indeed short and is not to be wasted. I would say that “You have been gifted with this precious life to LIVE and LOVE among the living. You do have a purpose(s). Silence yourself. Patiently listen to and allow your Soul to speak to you for It loves you, knows why you are here, and wants you to walk gracefully into your full potential. The time is now to soar into the life that is eagerly awaiting just for you to gift to us.”

Today I acknowledge and honor my dear friend and “Sistah Soul” Valerie, who couldn’t have summed it up any better during a recent Facebook post. Valerie profoundly said, “Don’t let yourself settle for existing. Do whatever you have to do in action, intention and thought to LIVE today… EVERY today.”

Here is all that Valerie was moved to say as The Universe worked through her. Thank you Valerie for being an open vessel to live and breathe the word and deliver it to those who are ready to receive it. Enjoy all! And, go forth and BeDoLove like your life depended on it. ONWARD!!! BeDoLove – kcb

Valerie’s Song:

“I’ve learned of 4 occasions just THIS WEEKEND of someone passing somewhat unexpectedly and in each case… MUCH too soon.  People who would be my peers or sadly — even younger.  That’s both painful and scary.  It also puts things into perspective and I’m sitting here wrapping my mind around who I am, who I still wish to become… What I believe in most of all.

Don’t let yourself settle for existing.  Do whatever you have to do in action, intention and thought to LIVE today… EVERY today.  Love HARD!  Celebrate the small wins while you shake off and learn from every misstep.  IF you didn’t die — it’s just not that serious and you get another chance in the morning!!!  Don’t give up on dreams, on people or on promises you make to yourself or to others.

KISS often and deeply… CONNECT to your partner, your spouse .. your lover EVERY chance you can.  In any and every way that you can.  And always keep that connection sacred … LOVE is precious and it needs tending.  Speak and listen in LOVE, strive to be each other’s shelter.  Remember always that love truly is a GIFT.

Forgive those that hurt you and try to love them as their imperfect self, exactly for who and for where they are and accept that the way they love you in return is good.. and is enough!

Give thanks.  Be the type of person who enjoys every tiny little joy … I swear the Universe rewards that type of thinking with even MORE abundance!

Pray.  For the gift of insight, patience… tolerance and compassion.  Because I really believe that when we possess these things, all other blessings will flow.

I’ve lost my way more times than I care to count.  I’ve made mistakes, wronged loved ones and caused my share of hurt and disappointment.  But, despite all of that — I was blessed with Today.  God/The Universe has decided yet again that my story is not yet done.  So, I pray I always see that as a miracle in itself and I KEEP ON TRYING.

For those of you experiencing loss, I send you light and love and pray your heart is lifted up in the knowledge that the other side is a beautiful place… a reward for our faith.

In faith and in gratitude. #Onward” –Valerie Hall

Goodness! That moment when I feel Spirit moving all through me, especially touching my heart, and breathing life in to my soul. “WAKE UP!!!”

Goodness! I’m pretty overwhelmed, yet open with the outpouring of messages and messengers/angels on earth who continue to bless my life. It is true when they say that “When the student is ready the teacher(s) will appear.” It has certainly occurred other times throughout my life at the perfect time. Seemingly every few years I start yearning for something more spiritually enlightening for my life, and BAM! The messenger and opportunity appears.

This morning I literally had bedside church service. Just an organic conversation with a friend/the messenger where I received the message. Got a testimony. And you know how you leave church with notes and good spiritual messages, I was provided with that and two books, “Dream Language – The Prophetic Power of Dreams, Revelations, and the Spirit of Wisdom” and “African Spirituality: On Becoming Ancestors”. Oh, and church smoothly journeyed in to an emotional tear filled closing jazzy musical rendition of Amazing Grace by Marcus Miller on the saxophone. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Je7JS160g-k Ending with an AMEN! Who are you? Who sent you?

Mother, Father, God, the Universe is really something else. This movement going on in me and of me right now is welcoming and amazing, but quite scary too. It’s crazy. Those two books that were suggested to me are based on two topics that have been following me around with curious nudging and now a loving this is you and of you pounding for quite some time. Receiving them moved me so much and this is why:

1. Dreams: I often dream very vividly. Yes I do sometimes dream in color. The first time I realized it I noticed the color in some curtains, particularly green. I often have reoccurring dreams. About my grandmother Mildred (R.I.P.). About the house my Aunt Barbara (R.I.P.) owned in Staten Island that I spent a lot of time at with my cousins as a child and teen. Can’t get somewhere (often involves me in the subways of New York City). Can’t dial a number. Running away from serious, violent, chaotic events that involve a lot of people frantically moving about and some of them trying to get me. Pulling globs of mucous out my mouth (one of the most bizarre reoccurring dreams I have). Apartment I grew up in Brooklyn. You know when I think about it, a lot of my dreams take place in Brooklyn, at Howard University, and even at the high school I attended. Hmmmmm…

I’ve dreamed vividly since I was a child. Once my boy Ron “MF” Davis (R.I.P.) gave me a dream journal. I never quite used it. I think he is pounding it in to me again. “Get in touch with your dreams and what they mean flower.” Especially the dream (but seems more real than a dream) of the force holding me down and I’m fighting to get FREE. One time I even saw a body or silhouette of the force. It was a man in all black. I shared about this dream during our organic service today. It is by far the scariest of all dreams and because of it there are certain things I do in order to keep me safe and ensure it doesn’t visit me. However, a couple of occasions I’ve been told I need to face it while in the midst of the dream. Although that particular dream (or real life experience) hasn’t happened in a while, perhaps I still need to get down to the bottom of who/what it is. Ask it what it wants? What message is it here to deliver? Do I need it? Does it need me? I believe dreams are definitely messages that if we really get down to the meaning of them we can learn so much about us, life, the people in our lives, and how to or not to navigate and move through our life and with people.

2. Death/Ancestors: Death is also something that I’ve had a fascination with for many many many years. I remember as far back as my 20s. Often thinking about it so much that I didn’t want to tell others for the fear they would think I was crazy. What if a certain loved one died? What if I die? What happens when we die? About two years before Ron (Yes him again. Hence why he is one of the people I dedicated my entire BeDoLove blog to.) transitioned he started a spiritual/transformational type school which was to go for three years. The first year focused a lot on what? Death! I loved it. I started to not feel so crazy but instead embraced the mystery of death. Reading and talking about what could possibly happen to us after we die. Is there life after death? Where do we go? Do I really feel my ancestors in my space, still loving and guiding me?

Well after that first year Ron became ill and he passed. Trust I knew that class was no accident. Those that took it were profoundly blessed and prepared with what was to come when he physically left this here earth. Without it I don’t think I would have been able to deal with his passing the way I did/have. Sure I still grieve, weep, and miss him tremendously. But, I believe it’s a healthy weep and grieve. Because, I do celebrate and honor him. Write about him. Talk about him. Invite him in to spaces (or he often invites himself) when I travel or I dance… And, I now feel even more connected to my grandmother Mildred, Aunt Barbara, Margo, and Camesha. All who touched my life in lasting and beautiful ways. As well as many other of my angels. Our angels.

So I have some reading (I got my reading cut out for me this summers), listening, learning, and growing to do. When I received the message to create this BeDoLove movement, I knew it would open me up more to receiving, holding myself accountable, and ultimately inspiring. I can’t wait to continue blooming in to the being I was put on this earth to be. I’m excited.

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found;

Was blind, but now I see.

Please join me! Will you? Let’s tap in to you too and what beautiful revelations Mother, Father, God, the Universe has in store for you. It’s never ever too late. The time is now. Don’t be scuuuurrred! Because it will all be in the name of BeDoLove and honoring your true you. Namaste –kcb

PS: My muse for this post is Tenecia who was my morning minister today. And, to all of my ancestors/angels who love and guide me. I dedicate this blog post to you as I honor and love you.

Ultimately everyone wants to hear those three glowing words. So I bet you thought I was going to say “I Love You”? Sure hearing “I Love You” is beautiful and lovely to hear. And, those three words can bring about tears to even a grown man’s eyes.

But, there are three other simple words that speak volumes that are even more profoundly moving to hear. And, they are… Hold up. I really want you to hear this. Are you ready? You sure now? Because it’s real and true and I want you to feel it when I say it like I do. (taking a deep slow thoughtful breath) “I.Choose.You”. Can you hear it as I whisper it? Come here. Lean in. Listen. No! Just stop for a moment. Drown out the noise of invited distractions that keep you from what you really want, so that you can hear what it is that you really want. Listen. “I Choose You”. I bet you even visualized my plump lips moving in a deliberate yet soft puckered motion as I spoke it. Feeling my words slowly move about your body as it finally lands on your curled up toes. It breeding such feelings of acceptance. Doesn’t it? You know it.

Now just stop for a moment again and play those words of truth and strength in your head and feel it with your heart. Feel those words of ultimate acceptance run through your veins as the blood slowly flows brightly to your beating and wanting heart. Okay. You want me to say it again huh? This time I’ll say it slowly yet purposefully so that you know this ain’t child’s play but a grown folks winning it all game. “I Choooooose Yooooouu!” Wow! How amazing is that. You like that? Feels good huh? It’s what you always wanted to hear. Knowing it was meant only for you and not coming from some two timing talking out the side of their neck fool.

Let’s face it; everyone wants to be the chosen one. It is what IS! It’s all of what we want in every single aspect of life. If they tell you different in that sometimes proud I don’t need anyone or anything, I’m good type of way, they are painfully lying to you and their selves in order to shield the longing and painful existence of their lonely left out heart. The painful heart of a child that is now carrying the weight of the adult that is still lost in a world of merry go round mishaps of people that just didn’t get your worth. Or maybe just maybe the Universe just didn’t deem that situation as your destined truth. Either way, when we are finally and authentically are chosen, it creates a refreshing exhale of the most high, validation and feeling of love. Bringing forth the thought of “I Matter” because after all YOU do.

How might that look for you to be chosen? You got the job. You’re my best friend. Being picked first for a game of tag. You’re a new homeowner. You’ve been accepted in to the school/program of choice. Congratulations president. Invited to the hottest party of the year. The first sight of the beautiful baby you birthed that choose you as they enter this new world. And, especially, especially with our most intimate heart felt, butterfly in the stomach inducing relationships that move us to do things we would never do for another.

“I Choose You!” It says that in spite of you with all seen and unseen that it doesn’t matter because in this moment you are perfect in all of your imperfections. I love you for YOU. It’s what really has us to sleep soundly and peacefully at night. And, wake joyously to another morning with the all-knowing feeling that fairy tales can come true whatever that is for you. It awakens the senses. Everything looks so much brighter, smells so much sweeter, and tastes so much more delectable… Walking now like you’re on air and you own the world with a cool pep in your step. “Shaft!  Can you dig it.”

I choose your smile. I choose your hips. I choose your laugh. I choose your strength. I choose your sensitivities. I choose your belly. I choose your insecurities. I choose your snore. I choose your intellect.  I choose your dreams, hopes, and desires. I choose your chocolate dark skin. I choose that you’re a talker. I choose your children. I choose your corny jokes. I choose your quiet nature. I choose you and the life that is waiting just for us. All it means is that I love, honor, and respect you for YOU.

But, a few words of advice. The chosen must be ready to be chose in order to attract to their life what is truly meant to be. Be open to hearing what path The Universe, Spirit, and your Soul are leading you to. Be as healthy as possible emotionally, mentally, and physically so you’re able to TRUST that VOICE. Be clear on what you want and what will and won’t work for you and your valuable life. Just because you’re being chosen doesn’t always mean you should choose them or it. Always respect and honor you and your truth. Know that you matter. But, hear me when I say this, YOU CAN DO THE CHOOSEN TOO!!! That’s the beauty of life and where your power also stands.

Now go ahead, because that beautiful and bright beet red rose swaying in the deliciously light wind of a sun drenched spring day is calling out to you. Choose it. Pick it. Smell it. (mmmmmm…) Choose you. Choose her. Choose him. Choose me. “I Choose You!” Choose to BeDoLove! Namaste. kcb

 

Interesting that today is Easter/Resurrection Day.

Last night I had the pleasure of attending a gathering, where the two beautiful women who invited me to their lovely, beautiful and comfortable DC home were such gracious hostesses.  It was one of those older, yet welcoming homes in a quaint DC neighborhood.  A home filled with such character and soothing creaking wood floors.  It’s the kind of home that I sometimes imagine myself creating a life and love in.  My funky and cool sanctity where there is comforting stability, endless peace, melodic harmony, and unconditional love.  That comes with a reliable house cleaners, landscapers, and handy persons.

While there I witnessed the most humongous, bold, and beautiful oak tree in their spacious backyard.  That commanding big oak could have been quite intimidating, however it calmed me and created such a soothing smile on my face as I just stood there in awe and silence observing its beauty as I attempted to take it all in.  The oak reminded me that regardless of all that goes on in life, there is always opportunity to stand tall, still shine, awe, and inspire me and all who I encounter.

The bonus of the evening was of the lovely couple sharing their wedding video with all who were in attendance.  The lovelies were still glowing from their recent ceremony while sharing the backstory of their relationship and wedding day commentary.  I found myself having one of my typical Hallmark movie moments as I watched them both fiercely wardrobe change their way through the video from beginning to the end all while lovingly and attentively engaged with themselves, family, and friends.  While witnessing their special moment, I was reminded about love.  I was reminded about hope.  I was reminded about authentic connection.  I was reminded about Divine Order.  I was reminded about commitment.  I was reminded about being open to the possibilities when one of the lovelies spoke of how getting married was not at all on her radar.  I was reminded about perseverance when they both spoke about the struggles encountered with family, friends, and strangers because of the resistance to their unconditional love.  I was reminded about forgiveness.  I was reminded about fun.  I was reminded about being sexy.  After the emotionally challenging previous night and current day I was having, I knew in that moment that the Universe sent me here to receive all of these uplifting messages.  Especially when one of the lovelies looked at me later and said I can see in your eyes that you are next.  Now whether that is true or not (in terms of being next, not that it won’t ever happen), it was just nice to hear and it was reaffirming.  It was nice experiencing through their love; they are reaching out and wanting to inspire others to also have it all.  To live one’s truth and believe.

During that made for me evening, as I navigated in and out of various conversations, dined on deliciously seasoned and nicely spicy African food of curried rice and fish stew, sipped on tasty lemon drop cocktails, and witnessed their wonderful wedding video, I was reminded about love, reinventing myself, and how it’s never too late to have what I want.  I must believe.  Keep having hope.  Keep the faith.  I must keep resurrecting my life, heart, spirit, and soul.

I was reminded that “I am the prize.” And, one of the many messages I was sent to tell you today is that you are too. That in all of the complexities and imperfections of our lives and being, that we are perfect in who we are and are deserving.

There is a gift in resurrecting oneself.  The gift is of getting back to the basics of love, while being open to the newness of life.  So today and ALWAYS continue to resurrect yourself and flow through life and experiences with confidence, grace, authenticity, openness, respect, a colossal sense of humor, beauty, forgiveness, sexiness, trust, honor, and unconditional LOVE!!!  And, you will in turn attract to your life what you truly desire and what the Universe knows that will nourish and resurrect you in your truth.  Believe that you WILL be resurrected to the essence of your being and beingness.  ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!!!  Ase!

L&S, may God continue to bless and blanket you both with love, light, and fun. Thank you so much for last night and being such gracious messengers and torchbearers of BeDoLove.  I dedicate this blog to you and all who inspire through their committed love.

Namaste! kcb