GOD | Brandt Edwards

Trying to establish a brand is hard work to say the least. It requires dedication, accessibility and social interaction. So while being supportive of a colleague’s event, Zakeya Fowler’s Girl Talk engagement, I had the pleasure of seeing and hearing an old childhood friend speak as a contributor. The DJ cued the music and as Mrs. Fowler made the introduction… “Inger Hanna….!” Dressed in all black, looking stunning and jewelry shimmering in the light, the lyrics began to play for the famous “Mary Mary” hit single, “It’s the God in me.” The crowd erupted as the vocals began blaring out of the venue’s sound system. As she made her way to the designated seating area, there was a noticeable bounce in her step; an air of confidence in her demeanor. She took her position on stage next to her fellow speakers and she continued to recite the lyrics verbatim, “You see her style you think she nice, you look her whip you say the whip tight, you look at her crib you thinkin’ she paid, you look at her life, now you think she’s got it made…” The song played for a few more bars and eventually faded out, but the message was clearly delivered. Mrs. Hanna, as well as the other participants, went on to provide excellent commentary as they sought to empower women and bridge the divide that separates them; but what resonated with me was the meaning behind the melody which was Mrs. Hanna’s introduction. “It’s the God in me.” It made me examine the meaning of that statement and those similar to it and how reinforcing a belief in one’s self is beneficial to an individual’s growth.

Enlightenment Entertainment by Brandt Edwards — When you find your inner self, are you destroying your strength?

“Sometimes it’s not the pain that makes you suffer; it’s your own negative thoughts that make things seem worse.” While residing here in the states we live in a Christian society, many people would classify the results we encounter on a daily basis, good or bad, as karma; which is the law of moral causation. According to Buddhism, this inequality is due not only to heredity, environment, “nature and nurture”, but also to Karma. In laymen’s terms, it is the result of our own past actions and our own present doings which manifests our realities. We ourselves are responsible for our own happiness and misery. The Heaven and Hell we create aren’t destinations our souls travel to in the afterlife; but are projections of the actualities we create with the power of our thoughts. We are the architects of our own fate. Confounded by the disparity that existed among humanity, a young truth-seeker approached the Buddha and questioned him regarding this convoluted problem of inequality: “What is the cause, what is the reason, O Lord,” questioned he, “that we find amongst mankind the short-lived and long-lived, the healthy and the diseased, the ugly and beautiful, those lacking influence and the powerful, the poor and the rich, the low-born and the high-born, and the ignorant and the wise?” The Buddha’s reply was: “All living beings have actions (Karma) as their own, their inheritance, their congenital cause, their kinsman, their refuge. It is Karma that differentiates beings into low and high states.” The Buddha then explained the cause of such differences in accordance with the law of cause and effect. Dr. Masaru Emoto wrote a book titled “The Hidden Messages in Water” which described how frequency (words/thought projection) can change water’s composition. He found that water from clear springs and water that has been exposed to loving words shows brilliant, complex, and colorful snowflake patterns. In contrast, polluted water, or water exposed to negative thoughts, forms incomplete, asymmetrical patterns with dull colors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NExPefZczfE

George Carlin eloquently framed his opinion of the celestial in this fashion. “Tell people there’s an invisible man in the sky who created the universe and the vast majority will believe you. Tell them the paint is wet and they have to touch it to be sure.” We’re under the premise that a divine being passes judgment and shapes the events that take place in our lives. It is the power of your beliefs that fuels your reality. Emotion and thinking are interdependent; both coexisting within the same realm of possibilities. When one exists without the other, it means that the other is residing in the individual’s subconscious; negative emotions results in anger, avoidance, depression and anxiety; thus attracting bad situations; while good thoughts promote positive situations. The stronger the thoughts, the stronger the emotions; when you change the vantage points for which you exist, you change everything. This mental manipulation changes the paradigm and reshapes our existence. “The more joyful, happy and light-hearted you are, the higher will be your corresponding overall rate of vibration. The higher your inherent rate of vibration, the more powerful your attractive powers will be. Joy is a very high emotion and therefore creates a high state of vibration and energy along with unconditional love. The more joyful you are, the higher will be your rate of vibration and the more aligned you will be to the SOURCE. This in turn will enable you to manifest your desires much more freely.” (Shelb Foster)

“No snowflake in an avalanche ever feels responsible.” All our lives we’ve been encouraged by our parents, coaches, mentors and those willing to provide encouragement to “believe in yourself.” “The kingdom of heaven is within you; and whosever shall know himself shall find it.” (Egyptian proverb) We’ve been programmed to believe that if we don’t have faith in some sorts of deities then who can you rely on? As mentioned before, believe in yourself. The contradiction comes from people posting photo captions and quotes daily about being strong, independent and self-sufficient, yet in the privacy of their homes they feel helpless and in need of confidence. In this world nothing happens to a person that he/she does not for some reason or other deserve. When you’re witnessing the signs of embodying your “higher self”, you feel physically and mentally lighter; you attract exactly who you need to meet; you can appreciate and embrace all emotions; you no longer seek love or attention outside yourself; you feel the interconnections of all life; you know how to heal yourself energetically; you only listen to your own heart; and you speak your truth even if it isn’t popular. Aren’t those the same characteristics befitting of the messiah in scripture? When faced with conflict, people are quick to proclaim that they’re a “child of God.” Well if that were truly the case, upon reaching an age maturity and an evolution in consciousness, would that in-turn make you a God; creator and ruler of your universe, source of all moral authority and having power over your fortune? Something to think about. “‪‎We Are The Change!” I’m gone! (b)

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Each morning I appreciate the fact that I’m granted another opportunity to awaken from a night’s slumber, listen to the roaring laughter and engaging conversation that transpires between the residents in my humble abode and embark on life’s journey made anew, as I bask in the illumination of the sun’s rays. The dawning of a new day leads to one’s ability to overcome past transgressions and account for past mistakes. Would’ve, could’ve, should’ves (states of procrastination) can be transformed into grandiose accomplishments with just a bit of effort; and words often left unspoken can be uttered to please the ear. And though my life may not be what I envisioned, I have shelter, clothing, and the ability to consume food to nourish my body. So you have to forgive me if I have a condescending attitude about most things I encounter in life, with religion being something I personally don’t subscribe to.

Now this piece isn’t being written to bash or question anyone’s values; nor meant to sway public opinion. It is my hope to provide levity; holding up a mirror and allowing the reader to gaze upon their reflection. Point out disparaging behavior that we all at times suffer from; an inflated ego; narcissistic tendencies, being braggadocio in the name of their chosen deity. As always, before I pose my argument, I like to define the key terms or phrases that will be used throughout the piece. Religion is defined as the belief in a god or in a group of gods; an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a god or group of gods. Now spirituality has no true definition; it means something different to everyone. For some, it’s about participating in organized religion (going to church, synagogue, a mosque, etc.) For others, it’s more personal (private prayer, yoga, meditation, quiet reflection or long, tranquil walks). In all, these differences classify our society as a whole; the believers, non-believers and those in-between.

“No hater can stop God’s favor. God will give them front seats to watch your life prosper.” When I hear someone say, “God is good all the time” I think to myself, what about the children that are subjected to child molestation by their parents, other family members or an adult role model? What about the millions of citizens that litter the streets of our communities homeless while banks foreclose on homes leaving uncounted thousands of dwellings vacant? The praying mother or grandmother, who pays their tithes on a weekly basis, attends Bible Study and is a participant of all the available “Boards” only to learn that after years of asking for guidance and protection that their child is doomed to a life in prison; engulfed by the Criminal Justice System or suffers from some incurable disease. Or during the time of slavery, where people of color were indoctrinated to the ways of European culture and servitude of their deities; dependent upon the belief that one individual had suffered the same atrocities they were then experiencing. The wounds from the lash have yet to heal, the family structure remained severed and the psychological damage remains evident to this day. The same messiah (Jesus) that John Hawkins used as the name of his ship (The Good Ship Jesus – Jesus of Lubeck)on his voyage during the Slave Trade (1564). Do you honestly believe that a higher entity had a stake in last Sunday’s football game between the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals? That the players on each of the rosters wanted to win any more or less than the other? When an athlete is interviewed after a victory, they immediately “Thank God” for allowing them (and their team) to be triumphant in “battle”. When have you ever heard the losing participant thank their deity for experiencing a defeat? Wouldn’t it be amazing in contrast to hear a player state, “I would like to thank ____ for allowing me to compete. I know this loss can be used as a learning experience and can catapult both myself and our team to greater heights.” That would definitely be refreshing and provide a dynamic for showing appreciation despite experiencing adversity or absorbing the emotions of failure. What about the hardship that Geno Smith, quarterback of the New York Jets, is now experiencing after being benched for his poor play? You don’t believe he has a strong religious foundation or is this a case of “favor ain’t fair”; testing his faith? The same can be said at award ceremonies, where the victor approaches the podium and thanks their “spiritual guide.” But what about their opponents; didn’t they work just as hard in an attempt to be rewarded and recognized for their efforts? Is it then fair to say that someone was granted favor, when if all things were equal, one person is being elevated above the other for some unbeknownst reason. This is typically the outcome that is frequently heard when dealing with the divine and infinite? Pray… Did it work? Yes! Praise the Lord! *TO THE CONTRARY* Pray… Did it work? No! God works in mysterious ways! This is what perplexes me about the attitude displayed daily on social media. Receive an upgrade on tickets to a sporting event, concert or travel accommodations, “Won’t he do it!” Credit score good enough to purchase a new car, “Won’t he do it!” Child passes standardized testing to move on to the next grade, “Won’t he do it!” Do what? I’m confused.

Don’t get me wrong, despite the tenor of this correspondence, I believe in the “Most High”. I just have my reservations about how “favor” is distributed. If you peer into the evening sky, and all the stars you envision are suns for different galaxies that extend throughout the cosmos, then how can one entity be solely responsible for that; and more or less be concerned about MY well-being? People dismiss extraterrestrial activity and the existence of life on other planets, yet believe all the stories written in the Bible which have no historical significance; research the Emerald Tablets of Thoth. Is it fair for a person to work, suffer, endure, live in squalor, while another exploits and reaps the benefits off the backs of others? And before you respond with the uniform statement of “Life’s a blessing” or “He/She lived a full, wonderful life”, who amongst us tells the truth about how we feel to our peers. We live in an era where if you’re open and honest, you’re labeled a “hater”. There’s no longer freedom of opinion or expression; you’re either supportive or an outcast; again, there’s no in-between. And with a diatribe like this, I know I’m an outlier for articulating this opinion. This is an explanation written on Facebook regarding the quote “Favor Ain’t Fair”: You’ve heard the quote “Favor Ain’t Fair”… Normally when used, it’s a rebuttal to those we categorize as “Haters”… You know the ones who can’t comprehend the blessings you’ve received, so they slander your name, question your credentials and attempt to assassinate your character… Today we’re giving the “Haters” also known as “Fans, who haven’t realized their true identity” a break, they’ve been beat down enough. We want to talk to the “Favored” and bring to light the other side of “Favor Ain’t Fair”… “Favor”, an unmerited gift from God can sometimes feel as though it comes with a cost… Those who are living a “favored” life can relate to what we’re about to say. It doesn’t seem “fair” you’re attacked because you landed the job others were more qualified for… It doesn’t seem “fair” lies are told to discredit and tarnish your image and name… It doesn’t seem “fair” your feelings are hurt because doors were opened for you that were slammed for others… It doesn’t seem “fair” you have to questions your family and friends motives, “Are they here because they love me? Or because they love what I have?” And so on. Like all things in life it’s a matter of perspective. Adversity has a way of changing the dynamic and make the strongest individual question their faith.

My thing is, stop attributing success or failure to an entity which is unknown to us all and only exists on the basis of faith (belief or trust; belief in, devotion to, or trust in somebody or something, especially without logical proof). The phrase, “Look at GOD” isn’t applicable to everyone. Many people feel as though they’ve been shunned by the savior they’ve been taught to worship despite their best efforts to be granted blessings. They don’t understand when you give from the heart, and it’s sincere, there are no rewards being sought; no light singling out the individual to honor them for their deeds. It’s a feeling that goes unheralded and unappreciated. Besides, who’s to say that the deity you worship is a “he” anyway? If life is alleged to have begun in Africa, the first remains of human life are those of a woman, and the woman bears life…, wouldn’t it stand to reason that a woman (wombman) is therefore GOD? Perhaps that’s a discussion for another day. Check out this link pertaining to that subject: http://themadmanchronicles.com/2014/02/08/black-man-proves-adam-and-eve-biblical-story-is-a-lie-his-dna-dates-back-338-thousand-years/ “We Are The Change!” I’m gone! (b)

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Brandt Edwards

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