HOPE and VICTORY

Jerel Shaw Of course when one hears the familiar words "Oh Mary Don't You Weep" many will associate it with a Biblical rendition of a sister (along with her other sister) who just lost a brother (Lazarus).  Mary was overcome by grief when Jesus arrived to visit. Yet, to make a long story short, her grief was turned into joy when Jesus miraculously raised Lazarus from the grave.  Yet, this story is not about that Mary, but a Mary who I became acquainted with when shopping at a local supermarket (national chain).  Her smile, and bubbly personality when serving the customer was always buoyed by her fantastic customer service. Mary is a senior citizen who still has to work for a living, but she has never complained (not to me) about needing to do what is necessary to maintain a roof over her head, food on the table, and to pay the other bills.  If you can identify, it's never seems to be enough, but a little can go a long ways.. Recently, when shopping at thi

Jerel Shaw      There are a lot of memes that people use in conversations that I would call a 'shortcut' to avoid relevant issues.  I like and don't like the meme stay in your lane .      Let's start with the likes.  I like it because there really are times when people should stay in their lane versus getting into other people' business that often starts and confusion and can be the cause of negative consequences.  You know the story about the 'nagging mother-in-law" who is always butting into the marital affairs of her sons or daughters? This is a a unnecessary nuisance and a behavior not becoming of an adult.  So here, her married children should tell her to buzz-off (another meme), or get lost.      What about that roommate that you have that is always advising you on who you should date; or telling you who is best for you?  Or, maybe someone telling you that your living standards need an upgrade - you need a better apartment; live in a better co