Greetings Literary Family!
The Sankofa Literary Society is hosting 29 days of Black History totally online and over the telephone. It is a month celebration of our literature, art, music and community leaders. I would like for each of you to personally take part in the 29-day Black History Month Online Book Fair. This is a community event for all of us ages 6-106! Please visit the main site and post your articles, poems, stories, promotionc or answer the feeds already started. We are here to let all of our voices be heard! Join us as we make history Feb. 1-29, 2008. Authors, readers, activist, and the media are all welcomed to share feedback and suggestions toward making this event a powerful impact on our future generations.
Please support our African-American authors, poets, artists, and bookclubs by attending the daily chats in our chatroom and by calling in nightly to share in the informative panel discussions. We will discuss all aspects of the State of African-American people in 2008 and beyond. We are discussing literacy, our relationships, the AIDS epidemic, domestic violence, and paying tribute to those leaders working hard to bring about a positive change. Our central theme is: Our Vision Driven by Some Higher Power. The event takes place from one central site for the entire month of Feb. Check it out!
Main Black History Month Websitehttp://edc1creation s.squarespace. com/welcome
Family, I need teachers, youth leaders, children authors, historians, and community leaders to come out and show your support at the daily events. If you have a group or organization that is working to better our community--please contact Ella to setup a day to showcase the group. Email: Ella@edc-creations. com
BLACK HISTORY MONTH PODCASTS
Authors, Book Clubs, Reviewers, and Literary Service Providers, call in and record your podcasts for the Black History Month Program. You are given 15 minutes to make a statement discussing your book or business and why Black History Month is important.
You can read very short excerpts, poems, quotes, or scriptures. Keep it to exactly 15 minutes or under! These will be played on our SLS pages, added to the book club center and on the Black Author Network Radio. I need all podcasts by Jan. 25, 2008. Do not hang up if you mess up! Immediate hit the # key and restart. If you hang up --you mess me up! Email Ella once you make the recording and tell me that it is there. edc_dg@yahoo. com
Please listen a community profile podcast by Brian E. Curtis:
http://paradigmshif taap.vox. com/library/ post/brian- e-curtis. html
Why Black History is Important 365
Allow children and young adults to record too!
Record your podcasts now: (214) 615-6505 ext. 9530 No charge to call (long distance may apply)
I need the following people to participate in the 29 days of Black History:
Our Elders from the real Civil Rights era
Folk tale/Story tellers
Bookstore owners
University Debate team members
Online community leaders
Authors with Black History Titles
AA firsts--are you an originator
All Greeks
People who attended the Million Man March
Jena Six leaders and supporters
Black Writers Guilds
Million Women Strong supporters
AA musicians and entertainers
MochaMoms and Jack & Jill
High School history teachers
Social workers who deal with foster care
Urban Lit writers to defend the craft
Citizens to defend rap, hip/hop culture
Literary Event promoters
Women against domestic violence
Breast Cancer Awareness groups
Authors who have signed books at Karibu Books
Women of the Civil Rights Movement
Black Panthers new and old
NAACP, SCLC, and Urban League members
Publishing Companies
Book Club Founders--your history
Newspaper writers, journalist, and editors
Literary Service business providers
Professors of African-American literature, history, and art
Musicians, Artists, and Poets with BHM themes
Young Adult leaders and students to read BHM poems
Do you have topics that you think the African-American community needs to address in this nationally syndicated forum? Please email Ella panel discussion or chat topics you think we need to cover. I would really appreciate any help I can get in bringing our news and events to the world during these 29 days of Black History.
Thank you in advance for any and all support offered to make this historic event a glowing success. Please sign up for my newsletter so we can all continue to work on supporting the African-American community in its pursuit of real unity!
Ella Curry, President/CEO of EDC Creations
Founder of the Sankofa Literary Society
Founder of the Black Authors Network
Marketing Director, A GOOD BOOK
Literary Director, POWER MAGAZINE
The Black History Month WebsiteSubscribe to the EDC Creations Newsletter
Join the Sankofa Literary SocietyVisit the EDC Creations Website
Monday, January 21, 2008
Should We Spank Our Kids Pt. 2
A few months ago I posted this very question on my blog. I am reposting it again amidst the recent frenzy over a proposed law that would ban the ability of parents to discipline their children with spanking. Also on my talk show Worth More Than Rubies, this Friday we will be speaking with Sydelle Richards and Stacey Patton, both of whom were abuse as children. Please tune in to http://www.redchurchradio.com/ at 11:00am CST on Friday to hear what they have to say.
Here is the original post.
When I had my first son, I can remember declaring that no one would ever lay a hand on my child. His grandparents of course thought that this was the most hillarious thing they had ever heard.I soon realized that there comes a time when some form of physical punishment may be necessary to communicate the seriousness of a particular action.
The old folks use to say "If I don't whip him the policeman will."Not only do I believe that spanking is necessary, it is also Biblical.The Bible is clear when it provides us with direction about children. First of all Jesus let's us know his feelings about children in these scriptures."Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me." (Mark 9:37);"Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." (Mark 10:15)
These scriptures tell us that Jesus has placed high importance on children and their place in the kingdom. Therefore it is safe to say that childrens' wellbeing is of utmost importance to Him.God later gives us guidelines to follow with regards to rearing our children. He says that we should train them up in the way that they should go so that when they are old, they will not depart from it. He further says that if we spare the rod we will spoil the child.It is clear that He intends for us to find a balance between the two. Neither of these methods is independent of the other.I believe that if you take the time to train your children properly, then spanking them will only need to be done sparingly. My rule of thumb was to use spanking only when the offense would result in physical harm to the children or to others.
Furthermore, extension cords, broom handles, and such go far beyond spanking. They are abusive.
The problem with the proposed law is that it will not deter an abuser. Much the same way that restraining orders and various laws that are in place for those that abuse women do not deter them from their course. This law would only limit discipline options for concerned parents.The system is not ready for the ramifiactions of children gone wild. We have already seen some of these consequences as a result of banning spanking in schools.
What do you think?
Here is the original post.
When I had my first son, I can remember declaring that no one would ever lay a hand on my child. His grandparents of course thought that this was the most hillarious thing they had ever heard.I soon realized that there comes a time when some form of physical punishment may be necessary to communicate the seriousness of a particular action.
The old folks use to say "If I don't whip him the policeman will."Not only do I believe that spanking is necessary, it is also Biblical.The Bible is clear when it provides us with direction about children. First of all Jesus let's us know his feelings about children in these scriptures."Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me." (Mark 9:37);"Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." (Mark 10:15)
These scriptures tell us that Jesus has placed high importance on children and their place in the kingdom. Therefore it is safe to say that childrens' wellbeing is of utmost importance to Him.God later gives us guidelines to follow with regards to rearing our children. He says that we should train them up in the way that they should go so that when they are old, they will not depart from it. He further says that if we spare the rod we will spoil the child.It is clear that He intends for us to find a balance between the two. Neither of these methods is independent of the other.I believe that if you take the time to train your children properly, then spanking them will only need to be done sparingly. My rule of thumb was to use spanking only when the offense would result in physical harm to the children or to others.
Furthermore, extension cords, broom handles, and such go far beyond spanking. They are abusive.
The problem with the proposed law is that it will not deter an abuser. Much the same way that restraining orders and various laws that are in place for those that abuse women do not deter them from their course. This law would only limit discipline options for concerned parents.The system is not ready for the ramifiactions of children gone wild. We have already seen some of these consequences as a result of banning spanking in schools.
What do you think?
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Cast Your Vote for the Infini Awards
Cast your vote in the Infini Awards. I have been nominated in several categories. Best New Author, Best Female Author, Best Gospel Inspirational, and Best Non-Fiction. The anthology in which one of my short stories appears, The Triumph of My Soul, is nominated for Book of the Year. Cast your vote today.
www.infinipromoters.com/vote1
www.infinipromoters.com/vote1
Meet Author Sheritha Bowman
Tell the readers about yourself:
I love God. After that I love cheesecake. Ok maybe not immediately after that. I love my family. I've been a wife for nineteen years and I'm the mother of two teens and one young adult. I love Gospel music, jazz music and the theatre. In my spare time, which is five minutes before I fall off to sleep, I enjoy reading.
The Diary of a Woman Pastor is an interesting title. How did you come up with it?
Growing up and even aas my time as a pastor, I've always kept a journal to document my joy, pain, ups and downs. God gave me the title way before I even knew what I would write in this book.
What inspired you to write the Diary of a Woman Pastor?
I needed to write the book for my own personal healing and growth. In order to get to the next level God was calling me to. I had to get the hurt, guilt and the heaviness off my heart. And the only way I knew to do it was to write. Secondly, I wanted to write this book because I believe many Christians fail to tell the truth. I wanted to tell a truth that many wouldn't expect some one to tell. Nobody wants to talk about why they step down as pastor or why they leave the church or whatever. I believe as Christians we keep way too much hidden for sake of appearing like anything less than sheer perfection. Then we end up presenting an image that is so far from who we are and then we have people aspiring to that false identity we presented. We need to share more and not be ashamed of our missteps and mistakes. We're all human and there is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus. Jesus forgives. So we need to forgive ourselves, move on and help somebody else.
I've read the book and realize that you were very transparent. Was this cathartic for you and do you think transparency is important when you're writing?
Very much so. Our loves are not our own. Especially when we become Christians. We're representing the Master. The word of God says, "sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth." We want to tell our most honest and sincere story so that God gets the glory.
You discuss relationships in your book. Can you give us some insight as to why some women remain in unhealthy relationships?
Half of us don't know any better. The rest who do know better and stay have convinced themselves they don't have a choice in the matter. We have to know God's word for ourselves. I respect Pastors, counseling, and the advice of Mother Davis and Aunt Florence, but when it's all said and done you have to know what the word of God says concerning you and your situtation. We're not a cookie cutter people. We're unique, fearfully and wonderfully made. It's not a one shoe fits all deal. We must be Spirit-led in ALL things. Some people choose to forgive and work it out. Some people choose to forgive and move on. What did God tell you to do? The deicisons we make have to be well with our soul.
Generational curses seem to be a part of your story. Could you explain how this affected your life?
High tolerence runs in my family. Especially with the women. It has been both a blessing and a curse. As I have grown up, I've watched the women in my family tolerate so much from the men in their lives. There is some stuff that we as women just ought not put up with, but we do. I had put up with some things in my marriage for a long time until I decided to trust that God really would have my back if I took a stand. Once I got bold enough, started loving on God, and then loving myself, I've since received the kind of love and respect that I deserve in my relationships.
The book discusses your departure from the ministry. How did you end up a pastor and what was it like when you had to step down?
I was first ordained as a minister and then pastor. I believe it was overzealousness that landed me in the pastorate. At one time you couldn't tell me I wasn't able to save the whole world! But after a while reality hit. I realized that although I can do all things through Christ Jesus, He hadn't called me to do all things. Stepping down as pastor was one of the hardest things I have had to do in all my life. Yet I believe that each and every day we are learning and growing wiser. Just as we can't be afraid to step out on faith, we can't be afraid of falling on our faces. Even in front of folk. We must be confident in knowing that God will be right there with us every step of the way. He will never forsake us and He is faithful and just to forgive. We have to stop being so hard on ourselves. We need to let go and move on in the grace and favor of our God.
What message do you want our readers to get from the book?
I pray this book inspires readers to make the necessary changes and decisions in their lives. Changes and decisions that are long overdue. Many pastors, employees and every day people stay in positions that were over for them seasons ago. Many dare step away out of obligation, fear, pride and even greed. But there comes a time where you have to stop serving two masters. Either you're going to serve the Master of the truth which is God or the master of lies which is the devil. We have to be courageous enough to tell the truth and live the truth. It is the truth and only the truth that shall set us free.
What's next for Sheritha Bowman?
More books and plays. Right now, we're in rehearsals for my fourth drama production entitled, "GIRL. TALK." Hopefully, it'll tour nationwide.
How can our readers purchase a copy of your book>
All of my books are available through amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com or they can visit my website www.sherithabowman.com.
God bless you Cheryl, thanks for allowing me to share my heart.
With love,
Sheritha
I love God. After that I love cheesecake. Ok maybe not immediately after that. I love my family. I've been a wife for nineteen years and I'm the mother of two teens and one young adult. I love Gospel music, jazz music and the theatre. In my spare time, which is five minutes before I fall off to sleep, I enjoy reading.
The Diary of a Woman Pastor is an interesting title. How did you come up with it?
Growing up and even aas my time as a pastor, I've always kept a journal to document my joy, pain, ups and downs. God gave me the title way before I even knew what I would write in this book.
What inspired you to write the Diary of a Woman Pastor?
I needed to write the book for my own personal healing and growth. In order to get to the next level God was calling me to. I had to get the hurt, guilt and the heaviness off my heart. And the only way I knew to do it was to write. Secondly, I wanted to write this book because I believe many Christians fail to tell the truth. I wanted to tell a truth that many wouldn't expect some one to tell. Nobody wants to talk about why they step down as pastor or why they leave the church or whatever. I believe as Christians we keep way too much hidden for sake of appearing like anything less than sheer perfection. Then we end up presenting an image that is so far from who we are and then we have people aspiring to that false identity we presented. We need to share more and not be ashamed of our missteps and mistakes. We're all human and there is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus. Jesus forgives. So we need to forgive ourselves, move on and help somebody else.
I've read the book and realize that you were very transparent. Was this cathartic for you and do you think transparency is important when you're writing?
Very much so. Our loves are not our own. Especially when we become Christians. We're representing the Master. The word of God says, "sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth." We want to tell our most honest and sincere story so that God gets the glory.
You discuss relationships in your book. Can you give us some insight as to why some women remain in unhealthy relationships?
Half of us don't know any better. The rest who do know better and stay have convinced themselves they don't have a choice in the matter. We have to know God's word for ourselves. I respect Pastors, counseling, and the advice of Mother Davis and Aunt Florence, but when it's all said and done you have to know what the word of God says concerning you and your situtation. We're not a cookie cutter people. We're unique, fearfully and wonderfully made. It's not a one shoe fits all deal. We must be Spirit-led in ALL things. Some people choose to forgive and work it out. Some people choose to forgive and move on. What did God tell you to do? The deicisons we make have to be well with our soul.
Generational curses seem to be a part of your story. Could you explain how this affected your life?
High tolerence runs in my family. Especially with the women. It has been both a blessing and a curse. As I have grown up, I've watched the women in my family tolerate so much from the men in their lives. There is some stuff that we as women just ought not put up with, but we do. I had put up with some things in my marriage for a long time until I decided to trust that God really would have my back if I took a stand. Once I got bold enough, started loving on God, and then loving myself, I've since received the kind of love and respect that I deserve in my relationships.
The book discusses your departure from the ministry. How did you end up a pastor and what was it like when you had to step down?
I was first ordained as a minister and then pastor. I believe it was overzealousness that landed me in the pastorate. At one time you couldn't tell me I wasn't able to save the whole world! But after a while reality hit. I realized that although I can do all things through Christ Jesus, He hadn't called me to do all things. Stepping down as pastor was one of the hardest things I have had to do in all my life. Yet I believe that each and every day we are learning and growing wiser. Just as we can't be afraid to step out on faith, we can't be afraid of falling on our faces. Even in front of folk. We must be confident in knowing that God will be right there with us every step of the way. He will never forsake us and He is faithful and just to forgive. We have to stop being so hard on ourselves. We need to let go and move on in the grace and favor of our God.
What message do you want our readers to get from the book?
I pray this book inspires readers to make the necessary changes and decisions in their lives. Changes and decisions that are long overdue. Many pastors, employees and every day people stay in positions that were over for them seasons ago. Many dare step away out of obligation, fear, pride and even greed. But there comes a time where you have to stop serving two masters. Either you're going to serve the Master of the truth which is God or the master of lies which is the devil. We have to be courageous enough to tell the truth and live the truth. It is the truth and only the truth that shall set us free.
What's next for Sheritha Bowman?
More books and plays. Right now, we're in rehearsals for my fourth drama production entitled, "GIRL. TALK." Hopefully, it'll tour nationwide.
How can our readers purchase a copy of your book>
All of my books are available through amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com or they can visit my website www.sherithabowman.com.
God bless you Cheryl, thanks for allowing me to share my heart.
With love,
Sheritha
Monday, January 14, 2008
Can Barack Obama Really Deliver?
While I truly would like to see Barack Obama in the White House, my excitement is tempered by the reality of the fact that racism still exists in this society. Will the white congressmen, whether they are Democrats or Republicans, really support legislation brought forth by a black man?
Then there are the countless numbers of conversations that I have had with various politicians who say that they enter into politics with lots of ideals, but the truth of the matter is, they get a rude awakening early on.
The "I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine mentality" is pervasive in the halls of congress. Eventually you have no choice but to compromise on some of your beliefs if you wish to push forth some of your more pressing agenda issues.
Can Obama really bring together all of the different factions to support a common goal? What do you think?
Then there are the countless numbers of conversations that I have had with various politicians who say that they enter into politics with lots of ideals, but the truth of the matter is, they get a rude awakening early on.
The "I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine mentality" is pervasive in the halls of congress. Eventually you have no choice but to compromise on some of your beliefs if you wish to push forth some of your more pressing agenda issues.
Can Obama really bring together all of the different factions to support a common goal? What do you think?
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