Victory Over Death!

When I think about Jesus, I feel joy, appreciation for His sacrifice, and overwhelming relief that my life is free from the clutches of sin and shame. Christ paid the ultimate price for me and everyone who believes in Him. He translated my earthly being into a spiritual and heaven-bound believer.

What an overwhelming victory!

Death could not hold Him. Propelled by love, Christ went down to hell and defeated the enemy of our souls. As we enter into the Easter season, I am drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Scripture, which illuminates the significance of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection for humanity:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”
Matthew 28:6

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate triumph over sin and death, signalling the promise of new life for all who believe in Him.

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”
1 Peter 2:24

This Easter, let us reflect on these powerful truths and rejoice in the hope and redemption that Christ’s death and resurrection bring. May our hearts be filled with gratitude and our spirits renewed as we celebrate the victory of our risen Saviour.

Happy Easter! 🙏🌷✨

A Name in History

Mar20

Today, I want to share something truly special with you all. Have you ever come across a book that not only transports you to another time and place but also leaves you utterly spellbound? Prepare to add a new favourite to your collection: “A Name in History” by Hillery Baptiste.

This captivating historical fiction is like no other. Set in the heart of London, it follows the journey of Ella, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a seemingly ordinary shell fragment hidden among her late uncle’s belongings. Little does she know, this discovery will lead her on a whirlwind adventure, unravelling family secrets and uncovering a history deeply intertwined with the scars of slavery.

What makes “A Name in History” truly special is its ability to weave together the past and present, taking readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery and resilience. Through Ella’s eyes, we are transported from the vibrant streets of London to the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean as she delves deep into her family’s history, challenging everything she thought she knew about herself.

But this isn’t just any historical fiction novel; it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding our past. History isn’t just about dates and events; it’s about people, their stories, and the legacies they leave behind. “A Name in History” beautifully captures this essence, reminding us of the indomitable spirit of those who came before us and the strength we inherited from our ancestors.

So, this spring, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another time and leave you pondering long after turning the last page, look no further than “A Name in History” by Hillery Baptiste. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on this incredible journey.

Let me quickly add that I know Hillery personally, and I am so blessed to have edited this novel. You can find “A Name in History” at your local bookstore, online retailers or at Arrow Gate Bookstore here. Let’s learn from history and not repeat the mistakes of the past!

Happy spring reading and much love, always! 📚✨

Infinite abyss

Feb16

A few hours ago, I learnt the unfortunate news of Alexei Navalny’s death. He was a Russian anti-corruption activist and Vladimir Putin’s arch-enemy. For some unknown reasons, Alexei’s death was a kick in the gut. I’m not Russian, but I’ve been following his fight for democracy and his fearlessness as a critic of Putin. And this brings me to the topic of my article, ‘infinite abyss’. What’s the purpose of life? No matter how powerful a man is, like Putin, one day, he will die, and there’s nothing he can do about it. The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, will not live forever. And what would have been the purpose of his life? Killing everyone who opposed him?

Blaise Pascal, a religious philosopher, mathematician, and Catholic writer discussed the emptiness mankind feels that human effort can’t satisfy in a collection of work called Pensées (“thoughts”) released posthumously. Pascal described a craving humans feel and it was a timely reminder of how futile life can be without God.

Pascal wrote: “What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him … though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; by God himself.”

So no matter what we do, there’s always this yearning and emptiness we can’t fill. Conquering Ukraine and eliminating political opponents won’t fill the emptiness in Vladimir Putin’s life. He will never find true and lasting fulfilment in life without God.

It is crucial to contemplate the legacy we will leave and the positive influence we can have on others. Alexei Navalny fought for an incorruptible Russia and paid with his life. Generations yet unborn will laud his efforts. Whatever we do, it’s important to think about the legacy we’ll leave behind. To folks who believe in God as I do, the impact we’ll have in people’s lives is immeasurable. The fulfilment and joy we have for having God in our lives is priceless.

Tales of Five Lies Reimagined

Jan19

I am back in the fray! After a 12-year hiatus, I have decided to start writing again. I have several abandoned manuscripts on the back burner that I’ve neglected, although I love my job of working in a publishing house, reading manuscripts, and discovering new voices. In the process, I have neglected my own voice. And I then realise I can combine both, manage a publishing house, and write whatever I want.

So, here it is. The second edition of my short story turned novella was published last year September by Arrow Gate Publishing. You can order from Amazon or at Arrow Gate’s Bookstore here. You can the book trailer here.

The plot is an explosive, enthralling thriller that peels back the layers of a seemingly perfect life. Christine White is a woman of privilege and beauty, living a life of opulence. Her existence is shattered on a cloudy night when she becomes an unwitting witness to a chilling crime. As she grapples with the horrors she’s witnessed, a ruthless killer remains on the loose, ready to strike again. In this heart-pounding tale, Christine’s quest for truth reveals that her perfect life is built on a foundation of lies. As she navigates a web of secrets and confronts her darkest fears, the ticking clock adds urgency to her mission, but the price of the truth may be too high to bear. If you’re a fan of thrillers and suspense, “Tales of Five Lies” is a must-read.

“Tales of Five Lies” is a gripping narrative woven with suspense, deceit, and a relentless pursuit of answers. The title is available in paperback and ebook formats. I hope you’ll all enjoy reading it.

Wishing you all a happy and relaxing weekend, my friends! 🙂

A New Day, A New Year

Jan3

It’s already 3rd of January, this year has started its journey. Like the sound of train tracks approaching a station, we’re truly and well on our way, exploring the unknown.

The unknown stretches far into the horizons

I don’t make New Year’s resolutions, rather I live one day at a time, committing everything into the Hands of my creator, God Almighty, who gives me wisdom and strength. To anyone reading this who doesn’t believe in God, you can still make your days worthwhile by being a better ‘you’. ‘Every Little Helps’, says the Tesco slogan, and I agree. A little here, and a little there, we can make positive changes in our world.

I wish all my friends around the world, a happy and prosperous year. Be kind to yourself and others.

Have fun living your best life.

Much love, always!☺️

Jesus is the Reason for Christmas

Dec23

Embracing Kindness with Jesus at the Center is the True Meaning of Christmas.

As the world transforms into a festive wonderland, we should remember that it’s not just about the glittering lights and wrapped presents. Christmas, at its core, is a celebration of kindness, and there’s no better reminder than the heart-warming presence of Jesus. He is the reason for the season, although many have conveniently forgotten that in the feverish gift buying, adverts and consumerism that seems to have pervaded our society.

The True Gift: Kindness Beyond Wrappings

It’s true that the anticipation of wrapped surprises is undeniable, but let’s not forget the real magic – kindness. It’s an intangible gift that doesn’t need fancy ribbons. A kind word, a thoughtful gesture – that’s the essence of a Christmas well-celebrated.

Jesus, the Anchor of Compassion:

In the hustle and bustle, pause to remember the true reason for the season – Jesus. His birth and life are the spirit of Christmas, encouraging us to love one another and extend kindness in every interaction.

A Resolution for Eternal Joy:

Life is temporal and things can change swiftly, so let’s love truly, and forgive quickly, that’s the true meaning of Christmas.

From me to you, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May your days be filled with the warmth of Jesus’ love, and inspiring acts of kindness that create a ripple effect of joy in every corner of your life.

Much love, always! 🙂

Love’s Essence from Two Hands

Oct31

My daughter wrote the poem below on my birthday, and she gave me the permission to share it. If only we have love in the world, we will dance on the streets rather than raining bombs on ourselves. Our souls will have dwelled in safety, not fear.

I hope you’ll all enjoy reading the heartfelt love from a daughter to her mother.

Two Hands

Strong and Firm

Cupping and moulding a shape.

Spreading out a piece of Eternity

Your love, more priceless than

Moonbeams, and fickle dreams

And troubles that dissolve

In times steady pace

Providing a sense of security

Two Hands

That cup my face.

Providing an unexplainable

Yet undeniable sense of place

Apparent in shape and constitution, and beauty

Two Hands with concrete

And resolute wisdom

Pointing beyond the Earth’s clouds

To the Author and Finisher of our Faith

Pointing and providing

Undeniable direction and words of gold from your breath

Though my human and

Simultaneous half girlish and half grown.

Nature may blindside those hands.

You wait, arms and hands outstretched.

Hold within those hands

The love that moulded me

The love and the piece that was.

With you, becomes a part of me.

Resolute and strong, beckoning

Me forth with those Two Hands

Two Hands that lead mine to

The right path, advising, adjusting.

And teaching to pursue beyond

This world

In your embrace, my visage is filled with your warmth.

A cover provided, and obstructing the view.

Of deep and embedded scars of effort

And experience within your

Two Hands

And so, with my own Two Hands, connecting.

Extending out from my arms

I trace the scars.

Interlock fingers and once again

We embrace, but from I to you.

I love you ❤

As I read the poem again, my heart flush with pride and love for my daughter but it was quickly dampened by the wars raging around us. As the world rabbles with overwhelming hatred, I pray and hope we’ll find a way to truly love each other, eschew war, and our world will prosper.

Thanks for reading dear friends and please, stay safe, wherever you are in the world.

Much love, always! 🙂

Peace in a Cruel World

Oct6

We live in a world often marred by conflict, disease, and negativity, finding peace can seem like an elusive dream. So, how do we find peace in such a cacophony of negative events? How do we keep ourselves grounded? I’ve decided to do five things:

Limit News Consumption: While staying informed is essential, constant exposure to negative news can be overwhelming. I have decided two set boundaries on my news consumption to prevent information overload.

Positive Meditation: I am a Christian, and I realise the more I read God’s Word, the calmer and peaceful I am. This world is full of negative things but the more we read, and pray and focus on positive things, the more we’ll have power over negative thoughts and influences. One of my favourite scripture quote is below:

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
Philippians 4:8

If I want to make myself sad, I’ll just dwell on the things that I think are not working in my life, or think of a past traumatic event. But when I realise I don’t have control over certain things, but I have control on my reactions. So, I do what I do best: pray and trust God to do what only He can do.

Be Kind: Kindness doesn’t take anything from us, rather, it makes us better people. I treat people the way I want to be treated, with kindness and empathy, and by doing that, I realise I am peaceful and can navigate through this cruel, complex world. I love the quote below:

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Help Others: Volunteering or helping those in need can be immensely fulfilling. Acts of kindness not only benefit others but also bring a sense of purpose and inner peace. When I help people, I forget about my problems and in a strange way, God always resolves them when I least expected.

Focus on Self-Care: I prioritise self-care activities such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. Taking care of my physical and mental health is crucial for maintaining peace. Taking care of ourselves is crucial, a sick person can’t take care of others. So practise self-love.

There are several ways we can find peace in this chaotic, tumultuous world of ours, but practising the above has helped me, even when faced with circumstances beyond my control.

I wrote this article on Friday, and woke up on Saturday to news of Hamas attacking Israel. I pray for peace in our world.

Take care of yourselves wherever you are in the world.

Much love, always! 🙂

One Day with Music

Aug8

One Night with You, Stive Morgan

While I was working as usual, I had my music playing underground—it helps me when I’m writing and editing. The music’s rhythm matched my creative work well. A captivating melody danced into my ears, its beauty too fascinating not to share. It’s incredible how great music can make us feel strong emotions and touch our inner selves.

Photo credit: Marc Girard. Our Beautiful World

As the notes enveloped me, I couldn’t help but envision the scenes painted by the music, a vivid landscape of awe-inspiring beauty that beckons us to pause and contemplate the intricate masterpiece crafted by the divine hand of our Creator, God Almighty. At this moment, wherever you may be, I hope that your day is going on well. With Stive Morgan’s enchanting compositions as the backdrop, may we all find ourselves awestruck by the boundless magnificence of the world we call home.

Much love, always! 😊

There is a Place…

Aug2

West Sands Beach, St Andrews, Scotland

I’ve been away for a while, taking a break to Scotland with my family and we had a marvellous time. The beautiful landscape of rolling hills, canopy trees, and luscious vegetation took my breath away. Scottish people are renowned for their welcoming and friendly nature. Strangers will see you in the street and smile and wave. You don’t get that reaction in ‘high octane’ London. I’ve spent most of my adult life in London, and I consider myself a Londoner first and British second. I love the city, but Scotland is now a huge contender – the fresh air, those stunning natural views, and I’m seriously considering moving up north.

There is a place called LadyBank in Fife, Scotland where we spent amazing days in a rented apartment. The only mistake we made was not booking longer. It’s important to rest and rewind before going back to the fray. And I hope anyone reading this will find the time to relax and rest. Below are some pictures I took.