Uninvited Guests

      Peeking  through the blinds.. You realize they show up unannounced, not suspected, without any warning. Their right at your front door, your living room, your quite space, your mothers house even at times in your bedroom... They don't mind showing up in the bathroom or even your unknown hiding place just to  remind you of all the wrong you've done. The pain, the hurt, betrayal and devastation. They refuse to leave better yet they have gotten quite comfortable in your dwelling space. They reside in your mind and soul. Alter your whole being... You can't sleep at night, it sends you in a state of paranoia never knowing when they'll show up! You reflect on the past every chance you get and still no matter what you conjure up in your mind they just won't leave.. Uninvited guests one and the same as unwanted memories...

         Shaking memories or dreams is very hard to do.. Too many times people get so consumed in a life they once had that the memories create kind of like an escape world for them to go to. Which leaves them nonexistent to those around them trying to enjoy their company. Other times people just can't shake a situation or event that happened in their life, at a moments notice they will be sent back to that place. They can recall the time, smell in the air and even feel those same gut wrenching emotions all over again. Sending them on a downward spiral. People can be too afraid to say what is really going on with them. If you feel like you don't have any friends in the world or someone who will listen without judging try Jesus. Just try calling on him and talking things through. My prayer would be for you today that you are freed from the slavery of the mind from those haunting memories. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will" (The Bible: Roman 12: 2). Then take it a step further when you ready and reach out to someone..  We've all been there!! :)

Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll)

Fantasy

 

Shouting and signing badly : Hey now Hey now Iko Iko un day while walking down Decatur street. Nothing but a good time, good people and food all around. Ever feel like nothing could bring you down or take away your moment.  The party is just another Tuesday night in the quarter and people are celebrating life. I glance over and wonder how could life get better? Every problem , worry and shade of doubt melts away as I realize this is where I need to be. The flickers of glimmer from the old gas lanterns reveal a smirk on my face. This city has to be explored! There are so many alleys, corners, stores , shops and secrets hidden here. Never have I felt so drawn to a city, im in love.  I think my next adventure has chosen me and who am I not to comply. The night is still young!

Reality 

 

 All I can think is how did I end up here. Walking down a random alley 4 in the morning. Every corner is lit up with a million little gas lanterns. I'm watching my steps seeing as their are about 3,000 people all crowded on this block within these quarters. Feathers are flying, peoples faces hidden behind mask, a million Daiquiri places around but none of this appeals to me. What catches my eye is the multi colored Mardi Gras beads, the trumpet players on the corner,  the sweet aroma of powdered sugar from beignets and the way the old brick buildings create amazing shadows in the night. In all its mighty, mystery and partying this places is not to be mistaken as just a vacation retreat. This city can also be a jail holding people captive to their wildest desires and the link to their downfall. To me its a new adventure, a chance on reinvention, a vehicle to ministry, opportunity to grow, start a new chapter as a grad student and to perfect my craft by reaching  some of the many broken people within this world.. Ahh,  another day in the life woman who still views herself as the girl who refuses to stop dreaming. I'm just the woman behind the mask screaming : Laissez les bons temps rouler!! Baby let's let the Good times roll!!