Author/Motivational Speaker Vanessa Davis Griggs

I LOVE WRITING

2009-09-14T10:56:00.004-05:00

I have just finished a novel that's due out June 1, 2010. My life is interesting to say the least. You see, I have eight books that are out there already. Some of them are easily obtainable, some are not. The books that are easy to get your hands on are: BLESSED TRINITY, STRONGHOLDS, IF MEMORY SERVES, and PRACTICING WHAT YOU PREACH. My ninth book releases November 24, 2009, entitled GOODNESS AND MERCY. The book I just turned in is called THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT.

If you don't know anything about how my books are structured, let me tell you that I say they play off each other. What originally began as one book with no intentions on my part of me ever writing a series (that book was called THE ROSE OF JERICHO), became a sequel with the writing of PROMISES BEYOND JORDAN. Here again, that should have been the end of things, but then came WINGS OF GRACE. Following WINGS OF GRACE was what my publisher and I dubbed a trilogy. It was to be The Blessed Trinity Trilogy. Those books included BLESSED TRINITY, STRONGHOLDS, and IF MEMORY SERVES. But these books played off the first three.

I write each book to stand on its own but if you happen to read them all, it makes your experience oh that much greater. After IF MEMORY SERVES came PRACTICING WHAT YOU PREACH, and in November comess GOODNESS AND MERCY. So what was called a trilogy is now being called The Blessed Trinity Series. Most people have called my books The Pastor Landris Series which is quite suitable a tag. That's because Pastor Landris as well as a character named Johnnie Mae show up in some capacity in each of my books.

The challenge for me is being so far ahead of everyone (usually I'm two books ahead like now GOODNESS AND MERCY is done but not out yet, and THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT is also done and on its way next year). When I speak with book clubs or people reading my books, I have to remember where they are in their reading and not accidentally disclose anything that's coming. My life is interesting because once I'm writing a new book, I tend to fall in love with that book. I laughed when I finished THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT because I was so in love with GOODNESS AND MERCY prior and now I'm in love with the new book.

So if you were to ask me what my favorite book of my books happens to be, I most likely will say the one that I'm writing/reading at the time. There's still more work to be done with the new book releasing in June of 2010. I have to hear back from my publishing editor as to what she thinks. But I'm already moving on with ideas for three more books, which means, the series will continue. Honestly, I'm starting to feel like the LEFT BEHIND series' authors. I remember hearing how it was at one time one book, then it was going to be three. Then it was seven and done, that turned out to be ten and through, which morphed into eleven and it's finished, only to see number twelve.

Here's what I will say: I will continue as long as God says so. He is in control from me to who publishes me and to those who bless me by the reading (or listening as my books are also audio books) of my work. And between me and you: I'm excited to see what all God has in store for us. Regardless, it's going to be good! Good reading to you!

Vanessa Davis Griggs

http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

2009: The Number Nine

2009-01-05T17:06:00.003-06:00

Abraham Lincoln: “Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.” From the Bible, I’d like to direct your attention to Mark 11:22. “And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.”

It’s now 2009! For the past few years, I’ve tried to incorporate what each number signifies in Hebrew. Five was grace, seven for completion, eight for new beginnings and now there’s nine. Most folks know about nine months when expecting. But nine is also for fruitfulness. When a woman is expecting a baby, all with the knowledge of it, look toward the pregnancy going full term and then the delivery. Nine months, when expecting, is the time for full-term. Nine months is the period to expect delivery.

This year expect to produce that which has felt like it has been germinating forever (some of you know what I’m talking about). That dream or vision God has planted feels like it’s been a long time coming. But this year is the number nine. It’s time to harvest that which has been planted.

Mathematically, the number nine has its own uniqueness. There’s something supernatural to nine when you look at the multiplication components. Here’s what I mean. When you multiply 9 x 2 you get 18. Add 1 + 8 and that equals nine. Same thing for 9 x 3 = 27, you add 2 plus the 7 and you get nine. 9 x 4 = 36. 3 + 6 equals, you got it, nine! 9 x 5 = 45 and 4 + 5 = 9. 9 x 6 = 54 and again 5 + 4 = 9. You can do the rest of the nines and see that this remains true all the way through. This was a lot of fun, but it should serve as encouragement to you this year, 2009: the year of the number nine.

You see, I know many of you have stood and held fast to the confession of your faith. God has told you something, told you to do something, told you He was going to do something, and you’ve wondered when it will manifest. You’ve waited patiently on the Lord and you’re wondering how much longer you must wait. Well, I’m praising God already as I know there are about to be lots of testimonies on what God is doing this year.

May I have a “Word” with you? Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has and knows the plans He has for you and your life. Plans to prosper you. Plans to cause you to triumph. Plans that will cause you be victorious. You’ve carried this baby even when it wasn’t easy. Now I’d like to give you one more word to see you through. And that word is: Push! Yes, that’s right, push. When you feel the pain…push. When you feel like you can’t go on, push. When you feel like people don’t believe, keep pushing, and if necessary, push that much harder. Push and know that while you’re pushing, God is holding your hand. He’s smiling, letting you know just how great you’re really doing. God is saying for you to keep on keeping on. And do you know what? I can’t wait to hear about your delivery and the bundle of blessing(s) you’ve brought forth into this world! Twins, triplets, God is an expert when it comes to multiplication.

Copyright © 2009 Vanessa Davis Griggs All rights reserved
Vanessa Davis Griggs is a speaker and the author of seven novels which includes: Blessed Trinity, Strongholds, and If Memory Serves. Coming May 26, 2009, book number eight: Practicing What You Preach. Visit her Web site at: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Strongholds, my latest novel

2008-07-30T22:58:00.004-05:00

Kensington Books/Dafina

From Vanessa Davis Griggs comes the second book in her Blessed Trinity Trilogy. Part Terry McMillan, part Jan Karon, Griggs delivers the story of a congregation hoping for heaven--while dealing with life right here on earth...

When Pastor George Landris, the dreadlock-wearing minister of the new mega-church, Followers of Jesus Faith Worship Center, urges his congregation to approach the altar and cast off their strongholds--also known as their weaknesses--it's the start of intense soul-searching for many.

From a married couple's twin addictions to gambling and gluttony, to a female member's adulterous affair, a computer expert's obsession with cyber-porn and a therapist's workaholism, the Pastor's church family is about to open the proverbial floodgates. And that's just the beginning. There's also the woman whose battle with mental illness hides a buried trauma, and the religious devotee who's so busy fearing the devil she's forgotten what faith is really about. The plot only thickens when the Pastor's wife lightens his load by helping him counsel--and finds herself at the center of a decades-long deception.

Insightful, witty, and always poignant, Vanessa Davis Griggs delivers another compelling novel, taking readers behind the scenes of mega-churches, and showing the amazing power that redemption and faith can have on people's lives.

May I Have A "Word" With You?

2006-12-02T09:28:00.000-06:00

I started to title this Happy Holidays, but then there is so much talk about what we ought to say during this time of the year. My reason for wanting to say Happy Holidays is because there are several coming up and I wanted to cover them all: namely I pray you have a Merry Christmas, continue to practice the principles of Kwanzaa, and may the New Year be blessed beyond your greatest imagination.

I'm working on the Blessed Trinity trilogy (finishing up Book 3 while handling copyedits for Book 1). The other day I was talking with some people, and it seems many folks are down these days. I hate to use the word "depressed" because words do have power. The Bible tells us that life and death or in the power of the tongue. Out of the heart the mouth speaketh. Our thoughts have power. Our words have power. We must be mindful of how we use this power.

I often tell people, Satan really has no power. He knows we have it. Our mouths can get us in trouble if we're not careful. If Satan can get you talking wrong, then guess what? He has used your god-given powers to defeat you. If you can only get this in your heart, your life would change. Satan places images before you (some of it appears real; some is just our imagination). What many people do is speak what they see with their eyes or the fear they have in the hearts. Satan will focus your attention on what you "don't have" what's "not going right" and other things that can get you down. What you need to do is focus on what you DO HAVE. What you have accomplished. Don't discount those things; they serve as markers so you can see just how far God has brought you.

When talking with and encouraging people this past week who were a little down (and you know we also have to encourage ourselves, me included), my goal was to turn toward what God has already done. Start speaking out of your mouth from that perspective and see how the present changes. What you do and say today does affect your tomorrow. Remember that when you speak. When David was preparing to face and fight Goliath there's a lot he could have focused on. Instead, he focused on what God had already done for him (there was a bear and a lion he faced in the past and he defeated them both). When you do that, it builds you up and puts you in a place for God to do great things now. As David declared about the giant Goliath, who is this uncircumcised Philistine who dares to come against our God.

So if you're a little put out because things don't seem to be going the way you thought or had hoped, focus on what you have. And remember: You're made in the image of God. And God said . . . and it was so. Watch your mouth; protect your heart; and speak only those things you desire to manifest. Speak it in the present tense ("I am", "I have") and watch the power of God work. May I have a "Word" with You? Lift up your head, o ye gates. Gates keep things in and keeps things out.

Until next time . . .
Vanessa Davis Griggs
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

My New Novel: Blessed Trinity

2006-10-26T22:40:00.000-05:00

I've been hinting around about it for some time. Saying I was going to give more information about what I've been up to. Well, here's one of the things I've been busy doing. I hadn't wanted to talk about it much just yet. Mostly, because I was too busy to give a post here the justice it would deserve. I love writing in my journals at home, and I enjoy posting things here. I have been so busy this past year, I've not gotten to do either that much. Besides, it can work against a person to talk about things too soon. Only because it makes the wait seem that much longer.

I'm writing a trilogy which is being called: The Blessed Trinitiy Trilogy. Blessed Trinity is the first novel in this three-part series which actually continues the saga that began with Promises Beyond Jordan and was followed up by Wings of Grace. Now for all of you who have either been with me from the beginning or you read it after you finished my other book(s), you know this actually began with a book I published under my own company called The Rose of Jericho. I'm not downplaying that book. In fact, I often think of it as the author's notes if you really want to know the characters true beginnings and story. The Rose of Jericho is a book I enjoyed writing and if it had not been for that book, there never would have been a Promises Beyond Jordan or a Wings of Grace. It's probably safe to say, there definitely would not be the trilogy that is due to begin hitting stores, libraries, and readers' homes around May 1, 2007. I owe much to The Rose of Jericho as that book introduced me to some of the most wonderful and fascinating people of my imagination (for all who believe the characters are really real, please disregard that last statement ;-).

In November of 2006, I was asked by this editor if I would speak with her regarding my possibly publishing with them. To be honest with you, I really wasn't even looking for a publisher at the time. I did speak with the editor, and (I'm trying not to tell everything here) I went back to what I was working on. A little after I hung up the phone, the Lord spoke to me. He told me to send her a proposal I had already written for a book I had in my spirit to write. God and I had our usual discussion, when as always, I lost the argument. As per His instructions, I sent the proposal over to her. He then reminded me I had written the first chapter of this book I had entitled: Blessed Trinity. As I looked in my file to retrieve chapter one, I recalled another book God had given me in July 2004 (He had awaken me at 4 a.m. and told me He wanted me to write this particular book, how He wanted me to write it, and the title). I had written all of this down and had written the first chapter of that book as well. I sent all of these things to her about an hour later.

Now, if any of you have read Wings of Grace, you're likely aware there are some questions that need to be answered from that book. When I sent the two chapters from the two books to this editor, I also mentioned in my email that I had a third book answering questions from Wings of Grace. From all of this, came a three-book offer, and what would be released in 2007 as a trilogy. This was agreed upon in January of this year. The catch was: I had to completely write all three of these books within this year. From what I've been told, the plan is to release them within months of each other. That's a good thing for those of you who don't care to wait as long from my next release. I say this with caution now, because things have changed a lot with my publisher/editors over these last few months.

I don't want to go into too much detail, but the editor who can be credited for "coming and getting me" is no longer with this particular publishing company. I truly enjoyed her, and I thank her for more than she'll ever know.

People have told me they can't wait to read an excerpt from Blessed Trinity. I promise you, that will come shortly. I really hadn't planned on putting the cover up yet here or on my Web site, but I saw where the book is already listed with Amazon.com for pre-ordering. One of the reasons I didn't want to show anyone the cover just yet was because I really LOVE this cover. I think everybody who had anything to do with it, did a fantastic job portraying what the book is about. But I did feel it would be cruel to show the cover and anyone wanting it having to wait so long before you can get your hands on it. That's one of the reasons why I haven't placed what's on the back of book anywhere as yet (it's really good, too!).

I'm excited about what is to come. I can't wait to share it with those of you who have been waiting for a while for a new book from me. I do enjoy hearing from you, and I'm sure once this book hits, we'll have something to really talk about as with my past books. In the meantime, if you know anyone who hasn't heard about or read my other books, I would appreciate it if you get them onboard. When this train pulls out of the station beginning in May of 2007, we want to take as many people along for the ride with us as we possibly can.

I hope you enjoy the cover. And please stay tuned...I'll be updating my Web site and here fairly soon with more information regarding what you have to look forward to in: Blessed Trinity.

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs

From Whose Point of View?

2006-09-05T13:45:00.000-05:00

In writing (fiction especially), the writer has to determine how best to tell the story. More to the point, the point-of-view (POV): first person, second person, third person, third person limited, or omniscient. The most popular points-of-view are: first person, third person, and omniscient.

First person uses the word “I” for the narrative character’s tag causing the story to feel more personable. A tag represents who is speaking. “Come here,” I said. “I” is when the focus is all about me (or the me character).

Third person uses he, she, they, it, or the characters’ names and is less intimate. “Are you interested in going with me?” she asked. “Not really,” he said. With third person, readers know what each character is doing, but we’re limited by knowing only what the characters in that particular scene can see. With scene changes, focusing on a different character can create a shift in who the leading character is at that time. First and third person point-of-view can be tricky since the character must have access to what’s being done or said or be told by someone who has/had knowledge of the event.

The omniscient point-of-view means the story is being told from an all-knowing standpoint. This is referred to as the God point-of-view. Omniscient is all-seeing, all-knowing, everywhere, all at the same time. Whenever a story is written from this point-of-view, characters can be in different places, yet whatever any of them is doing is known and can be written about (even their private thoughts). The omniscient point-of-view knows all and can legally as well as technically document this knowledge in the story.

So it is with God: God is omniscient. He sees everything each of us is doing, yes, even at the same time. He knows every one of our thoughts, even as we think simultaneously. There is no scene change rule in play, because God is omniscient.

First person is more intimate but limited since the character can only speak from the knowledge he/she knows. The focus is all about that character and how that character sees and perceives something (right or wrong as we all have our special filters that aren’t always correct in our assessments).

Second person is using the word “you” which is not a popular point-of-view in the writing world, but it’s definitely used in real life. “You hurt my feelings.” “You don’t treat me right.” Granted, this is not a true example of how a person writing in second person would use the word “you” as a tag in second person. It would be more like, “Come here,” you said. But you didn’t; you merely walked away. However, the point I’d like you to see here is how in real life, we love to use the word “you” to place the blame or focus attention on others for whatever might be happening or not (usually, it’s the bad things happening) in our lives.

Third person frees the writer to be able to show more of what’s going on but is less personable than first person. That’s why we have what is called third person limited. Third person limited allows the character to be like a first person character telling the story from their point-of-view intimately, then switching back to true third person mode when desired. It permits other characters to also become like a first person character.

The omniscient point-of-view does not solely regard one individual. Omniscient sees the whole picture although the information may not always be revealed or revealed immediately. Omniscient sees all and knows the thoughts and feelings of each character.

God sees each of us and knows our thoughts and feelings. He views the whole picture, not just our microscopic, first-person part. He knows everything, and He knows what is best for us in the entire scheme of things.

In life, we must learn to not write our story only from the first person (I) point-of-view, but to allow the Omniscient (who sees all and knows all) to direct us in the way we should go. Many of us get upset when things don’t work out the way we’d prefer them to, but I have learned to trust the Author and the Finisher of my faith; to allow Him to complete the work He has begun in me.

So stop getting upset when things don’t seem to be working your way, especially when you know without a doubt that your life story is in the hands of the One who was before Genesis and will be here well after Revelation; the One who is penning the rest of my, and I pray your, first-person, unwritten story.

So the next time you believe you’re losing, and I really don’t mean to spoil the ending of the story for you, but I flipped to the end—and guess what? You win! You are more than a conqueror. So be of good cheer, Jesus has overcome the world.

Are you saved?

Then regardless of what point-of-view might be in play—first, second, third, limited third—in The End you win.

Not saved yet?

Well, you can change your present ending right this minute (which has been promised to be quite hot and not in a good way either) by believing in your heart Jesus is the Son of God, confessing your sins, and accepting Jesus as your personal Savior.

From any point-of-view, Jesus paid the price, and in the end, you win!

Copyright © 2006 Vanessa Davis Griggs

Vanessa Davis Griggs is a speaker and the author of four published novels: Destiny Unlimited, The Rose of Jericho, Promises Beyond Jordan, and Wings of Grace. For more information or to visit her Web site, go to: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com. E-mail: Vanessa@VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Know Your Character

2006-09-05T13:32:00.000-05:00

When God asked Satan during a conversation in the book of Job, “From whence cometh thou?”; Satan’s answer was, “From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.” Then God said, “Hast thou considered my servant Job?”

When God told Jonah to go to Ninevah and cry against it for their wickedness had come up before Him, Jonah didn’t want to, so he fled to Tarshish. After three days in the belly of a great fish, Jonah was told again to go to Ninevah; that time he complied.

When God gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross for our sins—Jesus, born of a woman (Son of God and Son of man), God knew no matter how difficult the task to come, how bitter the cup, Jesus would finish it.

When Mary Magdalene (and no, she was not a prostitute as was once widely and erroneously circulated throughout the Christian community) went that Sunday morning to the tomb where she “had a little talk with Jesus” after He arose, God was not surprised.

God knows all about us. He knows His character, and His characters.

Writing the Vision, Making it Plain has a dual mission: To inspire and encourage you in whatever vision, dream, or goal you may pursue, while teaching techniques applicable in the art of writing.

As an author, you should have some idea—from the beginning—of your characters’ character and their likely reaction within a setting or situation in which they are placed. Likely reaction. There is still, of course, free will.

In your case, this might require writing or typing all the pertinent information about them: age, height, weight, race, education, jobs held, family, friends, Christian or non, their idiosyncrasies, temperament, beliefs, disappointments, victories. One reason is for future reference. What color are your characters’ eyes? Hair? Any identifying marks? The list goes on. All of these things, which can and do, affect a character, and how they respond in a particular setting or situation.

Also, writing this information down will help you later to keep track. You wouldn’t want to give your character green eyes in the beginning of a story, only to end up in the middle of the story with them sporting brown ones (sans contact lenses).

For instance, I have a character named George Landris. He originally showed up (I mean this literally) in a novel I wrote called The Rose of Jericho as a minor character. Even minor characters need an information sheet; you never know what may transpire in the future. As in real life, people we think of as being minor may surprise us and turn out to be quite major later.

This is precisely what happened with George Landris: he became a major character in my next novel, Promises Beyond Jordan. And although I said he would not play a major role in the follow-up novel, Wings of Grace—that proved not to be the case at all.

My point in bringing up George Landris: There are certain things I, as the creator…the author, know about him. Things I might like or not about him (his hair was one of those things I didn’t care for in the beginning—he sported dreadlocks). But I know him well enough to know what he will most likely do in certain situations. (Just as God knows what we’ll likely do—“Have you tried my servant Job?”) And as much as I’d like to make Landris do what I want in the way I want, or as timely as I’d prefer; I allow him to be himself and work it out.

Know your character.

Characters who commune with me consistently, I know more intimately. Do I love all of them—even the bad, misguided, or evil ones? I’ll tell you what I do love: I love the fact that they each carry out their assignments as they’ve been given. I absolutely love when they execute them well. And don’t we, as God’s creations, each have assignments?

There is this song I have fallen in love with recently. The first time I heard it, I cried like a baby. It’s by Israel & New Breed; I heard it on the Alive in South Africa CD. The song: He Knows My Name.

Think about it. Billions upon trillions of people who have come through this earthly realm, and GOD KNOWS my name! And He hears me. You’d better believe I don’t care about religion when it comes to my Creator. I’m totally and completely about, and into, the relationship: My relationship with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

When I’m in a particular setting or situation—good or bad; I can walk in the confidence that God knows me, and that He trusts me enough to know—not only that I can handle it—but that I will come through whatever it is victoriously!

So if you’re interested in writing, KNOW YOUR CHARACTER(S). If you’re not interested in writing, but you have a vision, a goal, or a dream you’re pursuing in life—then get yourself a notebook of paper, get on your computer, whatever or however you choose to do it: Then write your vision, and make it plain. After that, run with it! Run with it, KNOWING YOUR CHARACTER.

Copyright © 2006 Vanessa Davis Griggs

Vanessa Davis Griggs is a speaker and the author of four published novels: Destiny Unlimited, The Rose of Jericho, Promises Beyond Jordan, and Wings of Grace. For more information or to visit her Web site, go to: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com. E-mail: Vanessa@VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Writing the Vision

2006-09-05T12:59:00.000-05:00

The Bible tells us where there is no vision, the people perish.

At the beginning of this year, God put it on my heart to create a Heart’s Desire card. He instructed me to write down twelve desires I have this year. I was about to write them on an index card when he further informed me this was not just for me only, but to share it with other members of the church congregation.

So I created a Heart’s Desire card on my computer and used the scripture reference from Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself also in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart and shared it. Aware that in life we may have goals, dreams, and aspirations; what gives these things a boost of power is writing them down and, as Habakkuk 2:2 states, to make it plain. There’s just something about writing your vision and making it plain so that there is no room for misinterpretation.

We serve such a big God—there’s nothing too hard for him. Our problem is not that God can’t handle the big things, but that in many cases, we don’t dream big enough. God is looking for willing vessels so that He can show Himself strong. Therefore, when I come with my dreams and visions, I come specific. I don’t just say, “I desire a car.” I let Him know the make, model, color, and any additional desired options.

Think about it. Do you really think God is impressed with your little, trying-to-be-humble-acting requests? Sure, it sounds so spiritual when you say, “God, just give me a car. Anything you want me to have is fine with me. Just as long as it gets me from point A to point B, I’ll be happy and content.”

No, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with this prayer. What I am saying is, God is asking you, “What do you desire?” He likes it when you’re crystal-clear. Does he really care whether you ask Him for a VW Beetle as opposed to a Mercedes? Not really. Either of these is doable for God. When you tell Him specifically what you desire, do you really think God is scratching His head and saying, “Now how am I going to pull that one off?”

No.

So I write my true desires down because He has already told me He will give me the desires of MY heart. Not your heart. Not what you think I should have. Not what you think is acceptable for me as a Christian. What I desire. The desires of my heart.

Now, what do you desire?

When you write things down, it makes it more difficult for you to go back and try to wriggle your way out of what you said. That’s why writing it down is important. It puts it out there for all to see (so to speak). Your vision at that point becomes manifested in the form of words. It is now before you, so as you run your race, you see it.

I wrote my desires down as did many in our congregation. We prayed about them before we wrote down anything. I believe God gives us a desire for something, before He gives us the desire. No, that was not double-talk. God PUTS the desire in you to desire a thing. Then He GIVES you the desire (makes the desire totally manifest in your life).

I wrote my desires, placed them on my mirror so every day, I am reminded of them. When a desire is manifested, I write the word VICTORY in big, red letters over it.

Now back to you. In your life, you should have desires. You should have a vision. Have you written anything down?

It’s like writing a story. You may see things clearly in your mind. You may find yourself watching your characters perform certain acts in your imagination. But it only becomes real, more than just to you anyway, when you outwardly record it in some way so that others can also experience what you see in your mind.

I write my visions, and I make all of them plain. And when my God—who can do anything but fail; my God whom I know there’s nothing too hard for Him to do—when God brings these things to pass and people ask me how; I point to my Father in heaven who loves me so much that He cares about every area of my life (physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally, financially, and socially), and I say, “God did it.” God gets all the glory. Ultimately, that’s what this is all about.

Now it’s time for you. Stop right now, write your vision, make it plain, delight yourself also in the Lord, and watch Him give YOU the desires of your heart!

Copyright © 2006 Vanessa Davis Griggs

Vanessa Davis Griggs is a speaker and the author of four published novels: Destiny Unlimited, The Rose of Jericho, Promises Beyond Jordan, and Wings of Grace. For more information or to visit her Web site, go to: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com. E-mail: Vanessa@VanessaDavisGriggs.com

What's Your Vision? Can You See Clearly Now?

2006-09-05T12:38:00.000-05:00

Whew! It's been such a long time...

I wish I could say that I've been vacationing or chilling out which is why I've not updated this in a while. But the truth is, I've been working. Then when I finished, I was working some more. And I really need to hurry and get back because I have more work to do. What gives me joy is: The work I'm doing is either being shared with others right now, or it will be shared in 2007. And let me tell you, I'm so excited about what's coming beginning May 2007 (unless the date changes, it has been known to happen already).

I considered writing some things here that are fresh in my mind, but then I decided I'd rather share a few writings on my own place that I've shared with others on theirs. I've been writing a "column" the past few months called Writing the Vision; Making it Plain. It occurred to me that there are some people who only visit blogs and they may never get to read what I've written posted or printed in other places.

Let me set you up first. This is part inspirational and part educational. I wanted to give some nuggets for those folks interested in writing. But if any of you really know me (trust me, a lot of people think they know me, but they really don't have a clue), I care about everybody (okay, maybe not every single everybody, but a great many people) who have dreams. I know not everyone is interested in being a writer but many of you are interested in walking in your divine purpose and fulfilling your dreams (even in the face of your haters...yes, they are out there).

So without further adieu--I'll post these writings for you to read at your leisure. Then maybe next time, I'll talk a little more about my new books coming out beginning in May 2007!

Vanessa Davis Griggs
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

What's Been Going On...?

2006-04-05T23:08:00.000-05:00

Well, great day to you!

If you've been wondering what's been going on with me, like why I haven't posted anything in a while--thank you for caring. If you haven't wondered or cared...well, okay then, I'll tell you what...

I have been so busy! Some of it I can't tell (maybe ever). See now, you're wrong for that. Why can't it have been something good? I have been doing so much, and today I should be getting some rest, but I wanted to at least do a little catch up. The people in the picture happen to be a book club called: The Society of WBRT--"Women of Beauty Reading Together" or as they told me on the down low--"We Be Reading, Too". I sneaked away from a time I desperately should have been writing, just to visit with them on March 12, 2006. They're in Gadsden, Alabama and yes, I crashed their book club meeting (oh yes, I did!). And I had fried catfish and turnip greens, hot-out-of-the-oven-still-in-the-skillet cornbread, and slaw; all compliments (not compliment free, but prepared by) Top of the River Restaurant.

Okay, so I've been writing like crazy and these characters showed up in this book and held me hostage until I finished. What someone forgot to tell these certain characters is that, this might be their world, but it's still my story, and if they're not careful, well...we all know what just might happen to them. Yes, the pen can be mightier than the sword. When you do finally get to meet them, will you please tell them that little bit of information for me (that's if it's not already too late for them).

Anyway, I didn't come here to talk about my next book--yet! But I will be talking SOON! I just can't...yet.

However, I can tell you about March 26, 2006. I received an award from The Greater Birmingham Millennium Section of the National Council of Negro Women: The Inspiration Award. It's a heavy award (I mean really; this thick, solid glass trophy is very nice and very heavy). But seriously, I am so honored and I truly thank these wonderful women of this organization for thinking about me. Here's a picture of myself and Zashnetta Hollis.

On Friday, March 31, 2006, I traveled to Winston-Salem, North Carolina where Saturday, April 1, I participated in the First Annual NC Black Book Festival. Joseph C. Dixon is the founder and event coordinator for the event. He really worked hard putting this together, and I personally would like to congratulate him and all those who assisted him on a job well done. I truly enjoyed myself and was blessed by the participants who showed me lots of love (and those who didn't too).

I also met Zane at the festival. She has so much going on. I like her and admire all that's she's accomplishing as an American. Notice I didn't say African American or woman. She's doing her thing and proving that excellence is indeed the best equalizer against racism and sexism especially when it comes to doing "your thing."

I was on the panel with five other Christian authors: (Left to right): Vanessa Davis Griggs (me), Stacy Hawkins Adams, Kendra Norman-Bellamy

(Seated) Jacquelin Thomas (recipient of the NC Black Book Fest Writer's Achievement Award) and Ryan Phillips.

Thanks for checking in with me. I promise, I do plan to do better about updating this blog. It's just there's only one of me and as much as I'd like to, in reality, I can only do but so much. (Please don't tell my children I'm really now superwoman--there's no reason to break their hearts just yet ;-)

Vanessa Davis Griggs http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

COMPLETION

2006-01-30T18:07:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I posted. Sorry, but there are times in our lives when there is more going on than time to do it all. That has certainly been the case with me. Some things have been awesome and wonderful; some in many eyes you wouldn't slap that label on.

Over these past few months, I have seen God truly move and do things that only He could have orchestrated. During these months, God put a Word in my spirit: Completion

How many of us have started things and quit? Or started something and wanted to quit? I have had that test to come before me many times recently. I was working on a project and what I understood the person to want was not at all what they wanted. We talked and there was an out for me to walk away. Staying meant I would have to start over. I could have blamed the other person for my not understanding what they were truly saying, but instead, I wanted the final outcome to be right. So I sat there and listened. I digested the words we both exchanged. I wouldn't walk away because I heard God speaking to me telling me there was a reason this was as it was, something both of us had to learn, and He wanted me to do this.

So I started over and worked hard to deliver what I hope was pleasing to both God and this person. As I worked on this project, there were so many obstacles that came up in my life. Many of these things personally attacked and affected me. But I heard the Lord say, "Completion." He constantly told me to complete this task no matter what Satan was doing to distract me. And yes, I realized early on this was Spiritual Warfare. It wasn't just happening with me either; many saints of God were in battle.

I remember talking with a wonderful woman during this time who was also battling spiritual warfare. I told her, "To walk on water, we have to keep our eyes on Jesus." It didn't matter what the wind and the waves were doing. I realized they were trying to garner my attention. But I had my eyes fixed on Jesus. He said, "Come" and I was going to the other side. How many of you have taken your eyes off Jesus when you started doing what, at the time, seemed impossible, only to be distracted by the winds and the waves that were there to cause you to sink? If you know the game plan set to take you out, don't let it suck you into being a participant. Worries, distractions, depression, family troubles, and personal attacks are devices the enemy will use to defeat you. To get you talking wrong. Life and death is in the power of the tongue.

I told this woman on that night, "I'm like Nehemiah on the wall. I'm doing a good work and I can't come down." That's what all the negative distractions in life are about. Making us come down off the wall to see what's going on and to stop us from finishing the work. When God continued to minister to me with the Word "completion", He was telling me that when I finished what He had called me to do, He had something else wonderful for me to start.

On the same day I handed off the completion of the work I had begun, God assigned another even greater work for me to begin. It's so exciting seeing what God is planning next! Anyone can start something. How many can complete? God desires people who will stay the course. The race is not given to the swift nor to the strong, but to the one who endures to the end. We are in a race. Sometimes it's a sprint. Sometimes, it's a marathon. Sometimes, it's a relay race ran where I may merely hand off the baton to myself for the next leg. But whatever we do, we should do it heartingly as unto the Lord.

Yes, God may have called you to a work. But can He trust you to complete it? As important as starting something might be, it is better to cross the finish line of Completion. Starting--Staying--Completion. And I didn't have to wait to get to heaven; I heard on that day from the Lord, "Well done thy good and faithful servant." Now He is saying, "It's time to begin again." And that's where I am today: Beginning yet again, toward another completion.

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Excerpt from Vanessa Davis Griggs' novel: "Promises Beyond Jordan"

2005-10-15T16:31:00.000-05:00

The first excerpt I'm posting here is the one I generally read from Promises Beyond Jordan when I am asked to read something from my book. It's short, but gives you an overall feel for part of what's going on in the story. If you'd like to read the first 3 chapters, go to that section of my Web site.

George Landris is engaged to Theresa Jordan. Nine days before their wedding, he utters these now famous words: "Have you ever loved someone that you never had?" as he's about to leave from Atlanta to go to Birmingham, Alabama. This scene is the one that followed after his return home.

Chapter 8
“Fire Shut Up In My Bones”

Inside the spacious foyer, a large crystal chandelier sets the tone for the rest of the house. George really wanted to get out of the clothes he’d worn since last night, but Theresa started in on him before they got past his study.

No, she didn’t understand why he had to be gone for three days. No, she didn’t see why he had to go in the first place. No, she wasn’t planning on acting this way every time he has to go check on or see about someone. Yes, she understood what life would be like married to a preacher—she’d seen it played out most of her life. Yes, she realized she was probably overreacting. Yes, she held she had a right to the way she felt—at least she was owning her feelings. Yes, he owed her a better explanation. No, she was not being insecure. Yes, this was the time to be discussing this. No, she didn’t care that he was tired.

“And what kind of a relationship did you two have that would cause you to just leave like you did and go see about her?” Theresa said.

Wings of Grace is the sequel to Promises Beyond Jordan. Check them both out. People are raving about the sermons in both books, and the one in Chapter 32 of Wings of Grace will definitely give you some food for thought!

Vanessa Davis Griggs

www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Those Who Have Ears to Hear...

2005-09-09T16:04:00.000-05:00

Hurricane Katrina came. One question that is often asked is: "Why does God allow bad things to happen?" I remember when the popular phrase was "What Would Jesus Do?" Well, my question to you is: "What are you going to do?"

I've thought about many things before posting anything here. I often tell people I represent many minorities in one: I am black, a woman, and I'm short. I've never really thought of myself as being less than anyone else, but by the same token, I was raised where I don't think I'm better than anyone else either. I've experienced much in my day. I've felt hurt, mistreated, discouraged, and forsaken. To those who survived the effects of the hurricane, know that you shall rise again. Your assignment is to wake up every day and trust. Trust that God cares. Trust that there are good people in the world and they care. Trust that not everybody delights in others' heartaches and troubles. Trust that those who have ears to hear also have a heart.

And with these hearts, we feel and we care. When I said the effects of the hurricane, we must realize that one didn't have to be inside the direct hit of the storm to be affected. There are family and friends who are affected right now who were hundreds of miles away from the storm. Yes, pray for those who have been affected, but do a bit more that might take you out of your comfort zone. Pick up the phone and call someone who might be wondering what's going on with those whom they haven't heard from yet and let them know you're thinking of them. If you have something you desire to give, give it. God sees what you give; He keeps good records.

What Jesus did was showed compassion to those who needed it at the time. He didn't judge them or beat up on them. He didn't make others feel He was so superior to them that He couldn't come to where they were. No, I'm not saying for you to go to these places and get in the way. I'm saying, if you were in this situation, what would you want someone to do for you. Here's a reality show for you: Try doing unto others what you would desire someone to do unto you.

Those who have ears to hear, let them hear. Hear with your heart. My heart goes out but I also know that the heart of these strong people will, as Maya Angelou wrote in one of her eloquent poems, have them to stand up and boldly exclaim, "Still. . . I . . . rise!"

When things happen in others' lives maybe, as God is watching us, He sees who we really are and confirms will we, as a people, rise to the occasion. Am I my brother. . . my sister's keeper? Only the one who stares back at you in your mirror can answer that.

Vanessa Davis Griggs
Author of: Promises Beyond Jordan & Wings of Grace
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Vanessa's Biltmore Estate Birthday Visit

2005-08-29T18:15:00.000-05:00

Finally! Vanessa will be sharing with you here about her visit to Biltmore Estate.

I left on Sunday Morning, early enough to get to Asheville, North Carolina by 12 noon or at least 1 p.m. That didn't happen. Instead, I arrived around 3:30 p.m. It should have been a six-hour drive and I was really making good time. It was raining, which I was hoping it wouldn't since I wanted to walk around the grounds while there. I have all the photos on my Web site: www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com so if you want to see them without much commentary as is the case here, then just click over and take a look.

Going through parts of Tennesee like Knoxville, you see huge mountains. There's Look Out Mountain and Tennessee's mountains are indeed impressive. I live in Alabama and we have mountains. But I have NEVER seen mountains like what I experienced in Asheville, North Carolina. And I must confess, I was in awe. They were so beautiful, I never thought I would go ga-ga over mountains. I've actually been stuck on a mountain in Alabama back when I worked for BellSouth and I had to go to work in the snow. I ended up on a sheet of ice that had me frozen for about 15 minutes afraid to take my foot off the brakes, for fear I would slide right off that mountain never to be heard from again. So yes, I have seen mountains, but nothing as special as what I saw as I drove and arrived in Asheville, North Carolina.

The reason I was so late getting to Biltmore was because of a terrible accident about 11 miles out from the Biltmore exit. We sat on the freeway for over an hour. Has anyone noticed there's a gas price hike going on. We sat there with our cars running hoping things would start moving soon. They didn't. People got smart (me included) and began turning off their cars. Unlike me, they started getting out of their vehichles to walk and talk to one another. Oh, it was beautiful sitting in my car watching people weaving in and out of vehicles to talk with other folks waaaay back. So even if things had started up soon (which they didn't) these same people would have delayed us because they were making dates and doing a meet and greet.

There's a bug happening here and it says my photos have been uploaded but they aren't here. So if you want to see any of my pictures online, visit www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com and click on the Biltmore Castle Visit link.

Vanessa Davis Griggs
Author of: Wings of Grace

What Does 2005 Have to Do With Grace

2005-08-29T17:48:00.000-05:00

I know it's been a while since I said I would post about my Biltmore Castle visit, but if you only knew how busy things are for me (not complaining) then you'll give me a little grace. In fact, did you know that this is 2005 and the number 5 is associated with grace? Well, it's true. So although I didn't plan it this way, my latest novel, Wings of Grace was released in 05 and grace is in the title.

In actuality, I wrote the book in 2003 and I never intended to name it Wings of Grace (I know you want to hear about my trip to Biltmore Castle; I'm getting there). I originally had the words WINGS OF GRACE in my novel called Promises Beyond Jordan. If you haven't read that one (oh, you plan to read it...oh, all right ;-) I have a church in there called Wings of Grace Faith Ministry Church where the good-looking, dreadlocks-wearing, Word-teaching, Holy-Ghost preaching George Landris is the pastor. So when I was asking God what the name of the new book was to be, I heard WINGS OF GRACE. Well, I thought God was telling me to join this dance team (because I can dance) called WINGS OF GRACE. I signed up, went to orientation, and then I broke my toe (the little piggy that had roast beef, not the little piggy who had none). So there I was on my way to Ann Arbor, Michigan working on a magazine (that's another story) trying to pretend that I had only stumped my toe.

The baby was broke, y'all! Broke-N. And do you know what they do with a broken toe that's in the middle of all your other toes. Nothing. You wrap that baby up and pray it heals straight (I'm telling too much of my business here!). Anyway, back to the dance team. God let me know (through a series of mishaps: the dance team not being so together that they weren't telling me dates of when they were meeting, then they were cancelling others and forgotting to tell me about that--hey, maybe they were trying to tell me something. Hmmm) that when God said WINGS OF GRACE, He was meaning the name of my book. So here I am in 2005 with a book about wings (Vanessa means butterfly) and grace (favor) in the year of grace.

My trip. Believe it or not, I began this post planning to tell you about my trip, but I digressed so much on something else, this would be too long to read. So I'm going to end this post right here, and begin another in a few minutes to talk soley about my Biltmore Birthday Trip.

See you in a minute (unless you're reading this after both have been posted, in which case, you've probably already read Biltmore and you wonder what I'm babbling about down here). Grace, you guys. Remember, all of us need a little grace!

Vanessa Davis Griggs
Author of: Promises Beyond Jordan & Wings of Grace
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Banish Your World of the Green-Eyed Monster

2005-08-17T08:39:00.000-05:00

So you've spotted "The green-eyed monster" (aka jealousy) lurking around and you want to know what to do about it? Trust me, this was not the next topic I planned to talk about here. I'm supposed to be sharing about my trip to Biltmore Castle which was nice and surreal in a way. It rained on my way there and during my stay. I drove and I am so glad I did. The mountains were awesome and I found myself in the middle of my own spiritualness as I realized those times I was right there with the mountains, actually going through many of the mountains at times. How do you go through a mountain?

Man in his wisdom has carved out highways down deep and placed a few tunnels when and where necessary. Little old me in my own powers (driving) was going through mountains much bigger than I just because someone believed in something others might have felt couldn't be done. "If I can't get around the mountain, over the mountain, then I'll just go through it." Which brings me back to jealousy.

The jealousy I'm talking about is not about somebody taking (or trying to take) your man or your woman. It's the feeling you have when someone else gets something you feel you should have gotten. Or when someone else is somewhere great in their life even though you started out before them or you've worked just as hard or harder yet they happened to be in the "right place at the right time" and got what you feel you should have. It's when you just know you're better but someone else gets the reward. How do you end up "all right" (other than faking it, can I get an Amen?) when your heart is heavy and you don't really want to be in that place of being down?

You must make yourself realize that whatever is for you, is for you. Say this with me: "What is for me, is for me and can't nobody stop it." Quit looking at other folks and comparing yourself, your accomplishments, your measure of success against someone else. This is about you and it's not about comparisons to others. You are you. You are great. And you know this. So what if other folks don't know it or acknowledge it. Others should not be the ones to define you or be the end all of what you've done or how great you are.

What if you got what the other person got but what was for you was so great that it was just taking a bit longer? Do you really want to settle for mediocre when there is something better for you only because it would make you feel better to have it now? I know it's hard to see others seemingly win when you feel like you were deserving if not instead of, at least also. But here's your test question: Can you be happy for someone else's good fortune? Promotion? New house? Great job? Wonderful children while yours are giving you a fit and you know you don't deserve it because you were the one who tried to do the right thing...(insert what's applicable to you here.)

Beeeeeeep! This is a test. It's only a test. If you can't be happy for someone else, why should anyone be happy for you? This is a test. Can you still smile and tell yourself, "It won't be long now! Wow, I'm excited for this person because they got theirs and mine is on the way! Oh, it's going to be so great when mine comes to me." No, my name is not Pollyanna. I am Vanessa Davis Griggs. An author and a speaker who believes that there really is enough for everybody. One who believes in giving my best and yes, I want great things to happen in my life, but in the meantime, I shall rejoice in your success. Now all I ask of you who already have your is this: Don't hate when I get mine. And don't feel like mine is better than what you got and say, "It's not fair!" Jealousy can be such an ugly thing and you're so much better than that.

Remember: You're not defeated, yours is just taking a little longer because greatness requires a little extra. If you can't go around the mountain or over the mountain, then I say to you, "Carve out a tunnel and go through it!"

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs
Author of: Promises Beyond Jordan & Wings of Grace
http://www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com

Give Me a BREAK!

2005-07-20T18:40:00.000-05:00

How many times have you said that or something like it? Whether it's because of people who tell you things thinking you truly believe them, or the pressures of life that you're certain will let up soon (but appear to go on and on and on), or maybe you just need to get away. Getting away can be physical or mental. Since we are tri-beings (body, spirit & soul), I think we should acknowledge every area pertaining to ourselves.

Now, lately I've had to deal with people (okay, not just lately, but for the sake of time, let's just keep it to this past year) who don't appreciate what you do for them. Oh they're wonderful while you're blessing them, but when they get what they want (or can) out of you, you end up tossed to the side. That's fine, but I can't figure out what makes these same people come back to you when they figure out they need something else from you thinking you don't know what actually transpired? Please! Give me a break!

Then there are the times when we push ourselves to do so much, forfeiting proper rest or downtime our bodies crave (and truthfully need) to regenerate. I'm bad about not taking a break. Always have been. I work hard and for some reason I convince myself to keep putting off taking a "real" vacation. I tell myself I'll do it when I get to a certain place in my life or career. A time when it would be better because I would then be able to really appreciate it. Oh, give me a break! Life is too short (even with 120 years) to continually push living off until "some time in the future." Now don't get me wrong; I love what I do. But "every-body" needs time to reflect, recharge, recover...renew.

So August 7-8, 2005, I will be at Biltmore Castle in Asheville, North Carolina celebrating my birthday while there on August 8! My mother and father (God bless them) are sort of forcing me to do it NOW. I kept saying I was going to do it and putting it off (you know...so much to do, so little time to do it). I think they must have said, "Vanessa, give me a break! Go! Enjoy yourself." And me being the obedient child that I am (Note to my children: see what a great child I am ;-) still), I am going.

But you guys know me, I love so much sharing the great things in my life. So I WILL be taking pictures and sharing my experiences there with you here just as Landris and Johnnie Mae shared with us when they visited Biltmore Castle and Biltmore Inn in WINGS OF GRACE. I'm not saying you can't go, but just in case someone else out there is working so hard you won't or can't do something like this for yourself, I say to you: Give me a break!

Life is about choices. So let's live long and...oh, give me a break! You know the rest :-).

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs
www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com
Author of: Promises Beyond Jordan and Wings of Grace

sMILE--The Best is Yet to Come!

2005-06-15T12:51:00.000-05:00

I know you probably think I pressed my CAP lock down by mistake and spelled SMILE wrong. No, it's just something I wanted you to think about. That the word "mile" is in smile.

We all have some place we either want to be, plan to be, need to be, don't want to be, etc. We are traveling on a journey called life. On this journey, we are sure to run into pot holes, confusings road signs, detours, missed on- and off ramps. A journey of a thousand miles truly does begin with our first step. Oh, it's easy to smile when things are going great. No problem to smile when we see a beautiful scenery stretching before us. But what do you do when construction has you sitting and waiting for what seems like forever? When a downpour comes out of nowhere and your windshield wipers don't even seem to be helping? What do you do when you get lost along the way? When you're not sure if you're even headed in the right direction?

SMILE anyway.

What? Vanessa are you crazy! You want me to smile anyway? Yes. No matter what "state" you find yourself in along this journey, learn to be content enough to smile. Not content to just taking it (you are not a doormat), but content in knowing that God has already mapped things out. Content to know that you won't remain stuck where you are, as long as you keep the right attitude. Content to know: "This too shall pass!"

You see, I have learned that it's hard to be down, depressed, sad (pick whatever word you feel best describes the negative feelings we all sometimes deal with) when you're smiling. Try it the next time someone says something to hurt your feelings. SMILE. Try it when you have decided to throw (or attend) the next pity party. SMILE. There's something about smiling that releases wonderful feelings inside of you. (Try it now.) If you want to laugh--then I say: Knock yourself out and have yourself a good "belly laugh!"

Because in the end, you have to know that God is STILL in control. If He allows you to come to it, He'll bring you through it. If there is anything you can learn from your experience, by all means don't leave empty handed. But if this is just a test, then pass your test with flying colors. sMILE as you stay on course. sMILE as you travel the road called life. Whatever is going on, you have to know: You're going to be all right! Now that's enough to smile a mile about.

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs

Keep Hitting the Rock

2005-05-20T12:50:00.000-05:00

I'm juggling quite a few things these days, and I have to stop to be sure I'm in the moment and that I'm living the life I am here to live. My purpose. By that I mean: there are times when we have dreams...a Word from the Lord. We know God told us something, but it seems like we're far from where we need to be to accomplish it. I have to stop and appreciate what I have accomplished and stop looking at what's lacking. That's the problem I believe many of us deal with. We're so focused on what we haven't done, we don't give ourselves credit for what we have done.

But this post is about hitting the rock. In the very first book I ever published called Destiny Unlimited, I have these special teachers who either take the main character to a place or put her in a situation to learn the lessons of success and making things happen. There was one lesson that has stuck with me (yes, I wrote the book but I can still be blessed by what's written even if it did come THROUGH me). The lesson was with a teacher named Brother Mic (short for microphone). In the lesson, he asks Amethyst if she thought she could split this big boulder. A stake had been driven in the rock and he gave her a sledge hammer to hit the stake with. Amethyst hit that rock and hit it. Feeling like it was useless, she wanted to quit. Brother Mic then asked her if he were to tell her the next blow would split it, would she still quit. Why of course she wouldn't. So she hit it again. And again. She continued until she reached 999 times and with all her might on the 1,000 strike she came down, and the rock DID NOT SPLIT. So she quit. Then another young girl came along and hit it one, two times. "Can I try again?" she asks. "Sure," Brother Mic says. She hits it the third time. On the fourth time, the rock split wide opened! She gets excited. "I did it! I did it!" she yells. Well Amethyst was upset because she believed it had been her efforts that had been the reason the rock ended up splitting.

Brother Mic told Amethyst, "It only takes one. You may not know the number, but just know that there is a number. You should stay until you find the number."

So I say to you: When you're feeling discouraged. Like nothing is working for you as you pursue your dreams. When you want to quit...to walk away. "It only takes one. Stay there until you find the one." Wouldn't it be a shame for you to stop one short of splitting the rock? What's worse is doing so much work and having someone else to come along and reap the benefits just because you gave up.

So when people ask me why I keep doing what I do. Regardless of the disappoints and sometimes hurtful things life has thrown my way, I tell them: "I'm splitting the rock." I don't know about you, but I don't want to quit and wonder if the next blow just might have really been the one.

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs
Author of: Destiny Unlimited (limited edition available on www.VanessaDavisGriggs.com), and recently releases Promises Beyond Jordan and Wings of Grace.

Keep your head up!

2005-05-04T16:14:00.000-05:00

When I was younger, there was a song by Earth, Wind & Fire called "Keep Your Head to the Sky." I liked that song (okay, so I like Earth, Wind & Fire, period!) because it encourages you to keep your head up, or to look toward the hills from whence cometh your help. I spoke two weeks ago to a Tuesday morning church group and in summary I told them, "There are times when you just have to encourage yourself."

That's what I want to say here, right now, to anyone who might be reading this. You may not always have someone to tell you how great you are or that you're doing a great job. But like David did in many of the Psalms in the Bible, speak to your spirit with song and words of encouragement. Tell yourself when your head is drawn to hang down, "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help." Oh, and lest you forget, you might have to remind yourself that "My help cometh from the Lord!" Tell yourself, "My steps are ordered by the Lord" when you're not sure about the next step to make (or take for that matter). Find the right words, and when or if no one else does it, encourage yourself when you have to!

Until next time...
Vanessa Davis Griggs
Author of: Promises Beyond Jordan and Wings of Grace