"Why God Closes Doors"

This spiritual food was sent to me by a sorority sister on a different list serve. I felt compelled to post AND testify to my blog family.

When God closes a door, it is the best thing that can happen to a person. While we don't understand the reasoning WHY at the time, its best to heed to his will and not fight it. You are looking at a women who had MANY doors close (some simultaneously) and was trying to get clarity on the reasoning from God. Lol....but its not my place to question....for that is were my faith steps in.

Reflect and forward as you see fit family. Have a great weekend.

the orAKAle has spoken

" Why God Closes Doors"
JEREMIAH 10:23-24





A blockaded opportunity is a useful teaching tool. God's ultimate objective is to mold us into the image of His Son, and toward that end, He at times prevents us from doing or having something we desire.



- Closed doors prevent mistakes. Just because a path is clear does not mean it is the one God intends for us to follow. Sometimes we won't have the information we need to make a wise decision, so He bars the way either spiritually or physically. The Holy Spirit can see the whole road map for our lives, which is why we are to follow His guidance.



- Closed doors redirect our walk. Rest assured, God never leaves a willing servant with nothing to do. The alternate opportunity He has in mind will yield bigger fruit, more satisfaction, and greater glory for Him.



- Closed doors test faith and build perseverance. Waiting for the Lord to speak or act is hard, particularly when our desire has been denied. But we'll learn wisdom, patience, and trust by pausing prayerfully until He reveals His will.



- Closed doors buy us time. We are not always as prepared as we'd like to think. God may temporarily hold shut an opportunity for service until a believer is properly equipped for kingdom work.



In spite of the repeated use of "closed door" in this devotion, the real message is that God opens doors. He has created a perfect pathway for us to follow. Keep your feet on it, and you will walk over thresholds leading to service, satisfaction, and glory for your Lord.

Where Did Silky Go (a teaser)??

As you all are aware, I visited my first foreign country this past January. I have been meaning to post the link to my web album...but has been taking my sweet long time. Lol. Below is a teaser of some pictures I took...can you guest where I went....(those Silky Chronicle family members who know...don't break the game....lol)

The orAKAle has spoken.......

Inspiring Others w/my Naturality

Hey blogger family....just a quick post for you all today. Had something great happen to me at church yesterday, and I wanted to share with the group and hopefully inspire you as well :)

Yesterday, after church, a fellow parishioner stopped me to compliment me on my hair. Apparently, she has been noticing my uniqueness and versatility with hair styles (that I wear on Sunday) and felt compelled to speak with me. She mentioned that she had been talking about my hair for a couple of weeks now and finally her husband suggested that she talks stops talking behind my back (that was funny) and just ask me about my hair, regimen, etc ( isn't that interesting family).

She wanted to know what I do to my hair to have it look the way it does. See, she "tried" to go natural a few months ago and it didn't work. She only allowed herself to transition for like 3 months and then she gave up...again... She was intrigued by my style and wanted to know specifically what I am doing to maneuver it AND what products I used. It sounded like she was on the fence with deciding to try to transition to naturality again, so it was only fair to pitch the case for going natural :)

So of course I did a consultation..right there in the church pew. Lol. I spoke briefly about my journey and how you have to be serious to commit to changing your hair regimen (mentioning that shea butter is my staple product) and patient with letting your natural hair grow and develop. This is a life decision (well at least in my opinion) and you have to make sure you will commit to the changes your hair (and you pschologically) will experience. I gave examples of how I wanted to give up and how I had to have a "straight talk" with myself, my ego and my self esteem. Once I was able to accept myself (and all my fabulousness) it became easier to learn how to do my hair, look in the mirror and walk with confidence. I spoke about how those around you may not support your decision, but you have to remind yourself that you are doing this for yourself, not others.

I mentioned that you can't "run to the perm" when your hair doesn't look the way you want it to (like she did before). Doing this starts the transition all over again and really defeats the purpose of the transition. You need to accept how God made you and your hair, love it unconditionally and nurture it ALWAYS....remembering we were all created in his image. I also mentioned that you have to give your hair time to heal and in the end you will not regret your decision of going natural.

I ended the discussion on some economically, but effective store brand options to get her started. Also, I suggested some possible transitional/protective styles that she can do at home. Briefly (because I had to go) I mentioned the fact that transitioning is trial and error...you may do a style that doesn't turn out the way you want at first...but don't fret....the neat thing is that you can try try again :). We agreed to do a "check in" the next time I'm at service/get back into town. As her unofficial mentor, I plan to check in with her once I return from my week of travel. Lets keep our possible transitional sista lifted.

The reason for posting this.....you never know who is watching you and also how your naturality could possibly inspire others. I know the majority of us get regular compliments on our hair, the styles and probably our confidence as well. While this may seem a little annoying (super star status..lol), you never know why you are receiving the compliments. This is the third person who has inquired about my naturality AND has been inspired to transition to wearing their natural hair just by watching me and how I carry myself. To be honest family, that makes me feel really good inside.

So I ask all of my family on here....are you inspiring others to be all they can be (in general)? Are you carrying yourself in away that others will want to model the same POSITIVE behavior that you portray? These are the questions I ask and reflect on daily as part of my overall encouragement but also improvement family. Its nice to see that my intentional attitude/character development (behavior) is working not only for my betterment, but has inspired someone else to do better as well.

The orAKAle has spoken.........

50 Followers - Thanks to YOU family!

Happy post Christmas Family! I hope you didn't indulge to much for the holidays (well...I did...lol).

Quick post for you all, first - I plan to do the lemonade diet to cleanse my soul, body and mind for the new year. Take a look at my weight management blog for details, to follow and to track my progress here ===========> "Weighing In On Health"

Secondly to say CONGRATULATIONS to THE SILKY CHRONICLES blog! Why you may ask...well take a look to the follower count to the right and you will see! I hit 50 followers/family members on this here blog. I'm uber excited about this goal and want to thank YOU the readers for making it happen. I never meant for this blog to be even this much success, but I am so humbled and greatful for the love all of you have shown me.

I look forward to a great and prosperous year for ALL and hope you enjoy the rest of your weekend!

The orAKAle has spoken......

To Straighten or Not - Weighing In

Hey family! Quick post today for my blog readers....I really need your advice. So I am preparing for a few interviews for position career enhancement. Very excited that God is moving in my life and the promises he told me or manifesting. Well, the conversation (not negative at all) has come up on how I was going to do my hair for these face to face interviews.


Keeping in mind that I want to always put my best foot forward and be the best candidate for the positions,I wanted to get my family's suggestions on how to approach this. I am a firm believer that you can be natural and land a job (no brainer), but as a newer natural, friends and family were wondering if I was going to rock the fro, the puff or straighten my hair to guarantee that I am ininvertely "discriminated" against due to my look.


Keep in mind I am meeting these individuals for the first time, and once I land the job, I can rock my hair the way I want (as it fits into the company climate of course). I don't want to give ANYONE any reason to doubt my skills and if I will be able to perform the position as required (which I know I can no matter what...but I digress).


So I pose the question to my blog readers....Should I or should I NOT straighten my hair to guarantee an offer for the positions I seek?


The orAKAle has spoken.....

Its my Nappaversary!

( DUDE my fro is huge)

A year ago on this date (well actually it was more like on November 13th), I decided to chop my hair off and start over. Lol. After about 8 months of transitioning (which was suppose to be longer...but I digress), I removed my first set of braids and had at it (with the scissors). Lol.

When I think back to my first initial response to my new look, I remember having thoughts of doubts and even wanting to cry. "What have I done" is a phrase that I remember saying over an over. See like most newbies, I was not totally sure of what I was getting myself into, but couldn't turn back..not now. After the support and love of many of you who follow me AND have their own blog at that, the journey became easier and a very liberating decision. To this date, I don't understand why I even doubted myself AND my natural black beauty.

At first, my family was a little shocked. Some snide comments here and there and a lot staring. Fast forward to the present day...nothing but compliments (even from those none nappy headed lovers). I have even had family members asking me how to help their children hair be as healthy and soft besides using the relaxer/perm method.....for convenience, manageability and cost savings....HA....who would have guest that.

Its amazing how one person can spark a new appreciation of what it means to be black AND what is beauty. This right here is why I decided to let go of the chemicals and heat. To be a beacon of hope and inspiration to all my naturalistas (especially my 4 A/C divas); that its ok to let your TRUE beauty shine threw when it comes to hair AND that you don't need to have it straightened to be accepted.

This journey has been a humbling one for me, and I am so thankful and appreciative that God had me embark on this journey now at this age, versus earlier (or later). Below are more pics I took to commemorate my new hair, looks and length to you...my family.

( ok so I was in the car trying to motivate myself to go into Walmart to shop...it was crazy)



( this is my favorite look)

To each of you, thank you so much for your love and support of me. More styles to come for you family.....

12 Steps To Changing Your Prayer Life

By: Jennifer Kennedy Dean

1. “The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.” (Prov. 21:1)

If your thoughts wander during your prayer time, instead of trying to force them back into your pre-set agenda, try following them. Perhaps the Lord has another agenda.

2. “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.” (Matt. 6:5-6).

Set a time for daily prayer. Consider it an unbreakable commitment. Keep your set appointment every day for one week. For one solid week, let your scheduled prayer time be the centerpiece of your day: arrange everything else to fit around it.

3. "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)

Give God the first fruits of your day. For one week, give the very first 30 minutes of your day to prayer.

4. “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16)

Find a place in your home where you can be alone and undistracted during your prayer time. Keep your Bible, prayer journal, pen, and whatever tools you use in that place so that everything is ready. During your prayer time each day, this is a sacred place.

5. “I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple.” (Isaiah. 6:1)

As you start your prayer time, before you say anything, let your mind’s eye see Him, high and exalted, and yourself in a position of worship before Him. Stay in that inner posture until His glory fills your thoughts as the train of His robe fills the temple.

6. “But Jesus said, ‘Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.’ (Luke 8:46 )

Take time to become truly alive to His presence with you. Be aware that as you touch Him through prayer, His power is released into your life.

7. “O my people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth.” (Ps. 78:1)

Read your Bible this morning with the awareness that you are listening to the words of His mouth. Stop at the first word, phrase, or thought that captures your attention and let the Father speak to you about it and let it shape your prayers.

8. “We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (Isa. 64:8)

This week, practice the prayer of pliability. Instead of focusing on what you want God to do for you, focus on allowing Him to shape your desires until they match His. Accept each situation in your life as His hand shaping your thoughts, character, and longings.

9. “Not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

This week, let these words be the only prayer you pray about situations that confront you. Focus on relinquishing every situation to Him to be a platform for His power.

10. “I will remember the deeds of the LORD.” (Ps. 77:11)

This week, try writing out your prayers. It will help you stay focused and will create a record of God’s work in your life.

11. “My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.” (Ps. 35:28)

This week, practice praying out loud during your private prayer time. It will make your prayer experience more concrete and will help you keep your mind focused.

12. “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; …talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” (Deut. 11:18-20)

This week, try walking as you pray. Walk through your neighborhood or around your yard. You will be more able to keep your mind open to new thoughts the Lord might introduce. You are likely to find yourself spending more time with Him.

Hey all,

I received the below inspiration on a different list serve. I hope you get inspired as it did for me. Be blessed

Simply being

In just one moment of simply being, is enough unique richness to echo for a thousand lifetimes. Open your mind, your heart and your senses, and feel the warm, peaceful treasure.

Beyond desire, beyond need, is the beauty that is always here. Gently settle into the all-encompassing abundance.

There is a great fortune that is already yours. To touch it and make magnificent use of it, just be truly thankful for this moment you have in which to be.

What you are tempted to worry about is nothing compared to what you have and what you can do. The limitless abundance of being is here and now, today.

Feel fully the incomparable feeling of life in all its endless variety. Ride the delightful, refreshing waves of possibility.

In this beautiful moment, you are. Here, now, live your great fortune.

-- Ralph Marston

In MY head...stuff I think about

Let me first say that this post is not being posted to demean or attack anyone. In no way am I referring to anyone one person in my life (professional or personal). I just have some questions /thoughts on my mind to speak on.....

Part of the purpose of me starting my blog was to share some of the thoughts going on in the orAKAle's head. I must admit that I had some reservations about even posting on this subject for it would give you the readers more insight into who I really am. But as always, with encouragement from those who care about me, I was moved to do so today.

Lately, I have been experiencing a lot of frustrations with my professional and personal life. These frustrations have been in the form of people, projects, personal disappointments, etc. In my young age, I've learned that we can be our hardest critic when it comes to personal achievement and success. Because of this, I really do try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. I know that this world is filled with different people and we should be more open to being accepting and understanding of others (and those we interact with)....but....

How do you distinguish between being taken advantage of and giving people a chance?

When do we stop using our age as an excuse for not keeping our word?

When does age become a factor in sloppiness, selfishness, forgetfulness, etc?

How much does your home life REALLY effect the job performance you are paid for?

Where does the line between work and play get drawn?

When do WE stop playing the blame game and start taking responsibility for our own actions?

Can we control our own destiny?

Does everyone have the same opportunity as others?

(get where I am going with this?)

I know your probably thinking that the above questions are all over the place (and you would be right lol ), but the goal is to get you all inside of my head and what I think about sometimes on a daily basis. Does it have to be this difficult or deep...no...but due to my daily interactions (especially professionally) I have to ponder these questions, which ultimately lead me into wanting answers.

See I am not only a very visual person, but I also have a tendency to overall analyze situations (and that can be positive or negative depending on how you look at it). Doing this leads me to frustrating situations and/or "sweating the small stuff" (random comment - if you haven't added this book to your bookshelf, I highly recommend it. Great read!) through out the day. One of my goals for this year was to not do this as much for it is not healthy AND you can miss out on a lot going on around you...for we all know that life is to short to give others or circumstances the POWER to control your destiny/future.

So what do you all think? Am I over analyzing, or do I just need to find other ways of relieving my frustrations so they don't manifest into bigger (and sometimes health) issues? Comments are greatly appreciated family!

The orAKAle has spoken.......