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The Hidden Power of HBCUs

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By: Aurora L. Threats Black History Month isn’t just about looking back; it’s a time to celebrate, lift up triumphs, and honor those who paved the way. It’s also about recognizing the powerful network of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that continue to shape the future. HBCUs are the birthplace of visionaries and game-changers who flip the script. While every HBCU has contributed uniquely to shaping the world, these institutions share a common thread: a commitment to empowerment, excellence, and service. HBCUs have been instrumental in the fight for justice, equality, and opportunity, and the ripple effect of their work continues to be felt across medicine, law, business, politics, arts, and beyond. Take Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., for example, who was shaped by the values instilled at Morehouse College. He didn’t just lead a movement; he redefined leadership in the fight for justice and equality. Similarly, Thurgood Marshall, educated at Lincoln University and at...
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Watch and Pray

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  For real, for real y’all. In a world with constant noise, distractions, and conflicting information, it's easy to say, “I’ve had enough of this!” Yet, amidst the chaos, there's a powerful spiritual practice that has stood the test of time: "watch and pray." This simple yet profound command, found in Matthew 26:41, reminds us to be vigilant and spiritually grounded in every season of life. To "watch" is to remain informed and discerning in all aspects of our lives. We live in an age where information bombards us daily, and with so many happenings and voices vying for our attention, it can be challenging to know which direction to take. "Watching" means not just observing our surroundings, but understanding the influences and forces at play. Are the people we listen to truly guiding us in the right direction? Are the choices we make aligned with our deepest values? It calls us to reflect, assess, and be proactive in what we allow to shape our mi...
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The Wrong Ear

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  Hello, There are moments when life gets heavy, and all you want is a safe space to share your frustrations, your disappointments, and your challenges with someone who you think understands. But be careful who you choose to confide in. Not everyone will have your best interest at heart, and sometimes, what you say can be twisted or misrepresented. It can be disheartening when someone recounts your story with details changed or distorted and their opinions added. What was a moment of vulnerability for you becomes a version that no longer feels like your own.  And the trust you placed in that person feels betrayed.  Words in the wrong hands can become manipulated into distorted truth, turned into something unrecognizable. Funny, but true. This is a reminder to be mindful of who you vent to. Not everyone who listens will protect your words, and some might even use them against you later. True friends respect your truth and hold your confidence. They don't twist it to fit th...
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When Those Tables Turn

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There are people in the world who will do malicious things to others yet wouldn’t want the same done to them. It’s painful and disheartening when those who hurt or betray you fail to grasp the true extent of their actions. Yet, when the tables turn, they seek sympathy and wish they had acted differently. Some will laugh, celebrate, and toast to their wicked deeds, as if their actions will go unnoticed. But just like a sinking boat in a storm, their time will come. What’s done in the dark will always come to light, and the harm they intended for others will ultimately find its way back to them. Justice has its timing, and it never fails. God Prepares a Table Before Your Enemies Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” God doesn’t merely allow us to endure hardship; He blesses us and provides for us even in the presence of those who seek to harm us. No enemy can take away what God has prepared for you, and in time, they will witness your victory. Wh...
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Be Cautious About Who You Help: Some Cook Up Lies

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Helping others comes from a place of goodwill and compassion, but it's crucial to be discerning about who you choose to help. While many people seek help for genuine reasons, some will exploit your kindness for their own gain. These individuals may twist the truth, misrepresent the facts, and attempt to steal credit for things they didn’t do all to aggrandize themselves.  Sometimes trying to help others comes with a high price tag. What makes this betrayal so damaging isn’t just the immediate harm caused by their actions, but the ripple effect they create. When some cook up lies, taking credit for your endeavors and distorting the truth, they pull others into their web of lies. People may quickly take sides, rushing to judgment based on half-truths and misconceptions, convinced by a false narrative that paints you as the villain. These manipulative behaviors can fracture relationships in ways that are nearly impossible to repair. Once others are entangled in the lie, trust is ...
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Supercilious: Breaking Barriers in Global Collaboration

During one of the most challenging global events—the pandemic shutdown—a remarkable opportunity emerged that not only changed the course of my career but also set a new precedent for cross-cultural collaboration in the arts. I became the first woman in the United States to collaborate with Ghanaian artists on Supercilious , an animated short film that earned international acclaim—an achievement made even more significant during the global lockdown. The historical importance of this collaboration was highlighted by the Ghanaian outlet Thee Influencer , which described Supercilious as “the first Ghanaian-USA collaborative short animated film nominated at the 54th NAACP Image Awards” (Thee Influencer, 24 January 2023). This recognition solidified our achievement, establishing it as a trailblazing milestone that broke new ground in the realm of global artistic partnerships. The pandemic, which forced the world into isolation, became a catalyst for creativity. In the face of uncertainty an...
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The Gift of Being Hidden in Plain Sight

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  In a world where we often seek validation from those around us, there’s a unique beauty in being hidden in plain sight. Picture a young woman who embodies kindness, strength, and potential. She pours her heart into her passions, supports her friends, and navigates life with grace. Yet, despite her vibrant spirit, she often feels unnoticed and overlooked by those around her. As she observes others receiving attention and admiration, she wonders if something is wrong with her. “Why am I not being seen?” she questions. “Is there something about me that makes me unworthy of love and appreciation?”  Within her heart, she holds onto a glimmer of hope, believing that her time will come. During moments of reflection, she turns to scripture for guidance. A verse that resonates is Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV): “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” This reminder encourages her to trus...
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