Its a new Dawn!

I will share my devotional with you this morning as an encouragement to someone, who feels defeated by the task ahead, or you feel its all gone wrong. You know what? Our God is a God of restoration. He told Ezekiel "I will restore the years, that have been lost, the years consumed by the locust, caterpillar, and Palmer worm". And you know what? when restoration comes, you rapidly forget all your weeping and days of sorrow. Its like a woman in labour, once the child is born, all the pain is forgotten when you look that child in the eyes and marvel at the life that has been brought forth. As I meditated on the book of Deuteronomy 20 vs 1-9, the Lord was going ahead to fight for the people, but they needed to be in the right frame of mind. Because its a battle field of the mind, and if you are not defeated in your mind, its difficult to be defeated else where. Dont get me wrong, situations will surely shake all you believe in and surely there will be trials and testing, but hang on, because like seasons, it will pass. It wont be forever, it will surely turn around, in your favour. And this young man I love so much says it all in this beautiful song.

THE COST OF A GOD-GIVEN DREAM

…I have suffered the loss of all things...’ Philippians 3:8 Stop and listen carefully to what some of the people around you are saying. Many of them express regret because they backed off from their dream of earlier years: a career not pursued, an opportunity left unseized, a relationship allowed to wither and die. Decades later, they come back to it and think more about it. But for some, it’s too late. They can’t achieve their dream at any price. For others, the dream is possible but the price is much higher. In his book, Put Your Dream to the Test, Dr. John Maxwell writes: ‘Going after a dream is like climbing a mountain. We will never make it to the summit if we are carrying too much weight. As we enter each new phase of the climb, we face a decision. Do we take on more things to carry, lay down things that won’t help us climb, exchange what we have for something else, or stop climbing altogether? Most people try to take too many things with them…when successful people climb, they let go of things or start changing them in order to reach a higher level…The payments required for reaching a dream never stop. The journey continues only if you keep paying the price. The higher you want to go, the more you must give up. The greater the price you pay, the greater the joy you feel when you finally reach your dream.’ Someone said a task without a vision is drudgery. A vision without a task is daydreaming. But a task with a vision is the pathway to victory and achievement-UCB. And like I always say, fulfillment only comes from fulfilling Gods given vision for our lives. There is a vacuum that only He can fill. And nobody, no amount of wealth, fame,wisdom, authority or power can take His place. Hes mighty, awesome, bigger than our imaginations, incomprehensible and like my lovely young man Vashawn Mitchell says in his song, there's absolutely nobody greater than Him. To that I say a BIG YES!

Ellys Thoughts

Now I am on my way back on the train on one of the days that seem the longest for me. Its about 9:35pm and its taking me an effort to keep my eyes open so that the train doesn't go past my stop lol. On the next stop however this man jumps in with his sordid alcoholic smell. But you know what, regardless of the eyes staring at him, he begins to play this rather archaic guitar and you know what, not long after,he got everyone's attention I believe. On a busy underground train, by that time of the night not before long, the coins where dropping in his little box. Like I say, life is simple. Discover what you are good at, and bless the world around you. The video isn't the greatest here as you will appreciate that at this time of the day, the only language my body understood was home/my bed.

Life Interruptions

When life presents the questions and we lack the answers hmmmmmm, the interruptions in life Priscilla calls it. Such an amazing lady and quite inspiring book. A must read I say.

ELLYS THOUGHTS....

"I was 43 years old and I was the highest
ranking woman on the ... staff, and this guy
thinks I'm somebody's secretary. I mean I was
at Harvard. I was a fellow at Harvard ....
—Executive vice president, transportation
company"
   Tell me about gender discrimination in the work place.
Was speaking to a colleague today at work and she says Elly you could be the ambassador for your country and she so believes in me that she made us surf the internet for my country's high commission and guess what? You don't get to see any link for careers and we laughed so hard today. Shes gone an extra mile and sent a mail, but if I believe shes going to get a reply, then I might be living in denial.  And this is me " You might be as intelligent as Bill Gates and as beautiful as a mermaid but...... I wouldn't want to complete the end of that phrase, I leave it to you. Anyways never say never, staying positive is key and I believe that technocrats like me someday will bring about the much desired change YES!
And funny as I log unto the blog I see this quote from scriptures;

No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength...But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love.

And really I say to myself, you might really try so hard but prosperity/fulfillment a healthy self worth and contentment, come from above.

                                                 *THINK LONGTERM*

Push vs Pull

"The relevance of the age-long conundrum known as the glass ceiling has become ever more questionable for a number of compelling reasons. First, its root in the invisible barriers (push factors) facing women's career progression prospects in the corporate world is ever-changing at a rapid pace across every region of the globe. Second, research shows some evidence of a major dramatic increase in women-owned businesses as being attributable to women's desire to gain more flexibility in their work arrangements (pull factors)" Hmmmm I know some are beginning to wonder where I am coming from and where its going to lead to? No worries I will let you in on it. And here I am reading this journal which is really mind stimulating and in between I begin to wonder as I compare the pull vs push factors. And you know what I am thinking? God will surely use situations, circumstances, people, your immediate environment, and everything it takes to bring you to what He has purposed for you.
I was having a conversation with a friend and I say to her, you know what? "If  primary schools were not compulsory for children of a certain age, most people would not attend primary school or would drop out at the slightest provocation by the school teacher.
The circumstances we pass through, Push us to our limits, try our patience and brings out the best/worst in us as it Pulls us away from our comfort zone and Pushes us towards the place of fulfillment. 
In the book of Exodus the Lord led the children of Israel from Egypt to the promised land , not through the straight route, but through the deserts, mountains, red sea, enemy territory, and all they had to pass through. Have you stopped to ask yourself why? And at the end He says I did all that to test your heart towards me. Prov 24: 9 says " If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.
Contentment will never come from actualizing that dream, You know why? Cos when the dream is achieved, you dream another dream and the vicious circle begins all over again. Yes! So enjoy the season of your life you are in, Be content in it, Learn what you have to learn, and when those situations Push you away from your comfort zone, Hold on to your anchor, which in God, as you Pull towards the place of fulfillment.
                                                     *THINK LONGTERM*

IN SEARCH OF CONTENTMENT

‘My people have...forsaken...the...living water, and...dug ...broken cisterns.’

Jeremiah 2:13

It's easy to be content when things in life are going your way. But how often does that happen? The Bible says we are to practice being 'happy at any time in everything' (Philippians 4:12 NCV), because if you put your life on hold waiting for what you want to happen, you may be waiting a long time! Epicurus said, 'Don't spoil what you have, by desiring what you don't have. Remember that what you now have was the thing you once hoped for.' Three things constantly feed our discontentment: 1) Greed. When you dwell on what you don't have, you're not enjoying what God's already given you. Be satisfied! Setting goals is good, but stop focusing so hard on the end result and learn to rejoice in the Lord while you're on your way 2) Fear. It wants you to run from something that's not chasing you. It's the enemy's way of a) robbing you of peace and stability b) tormenting you with the 'what ifs' c) keeping you from trusting God. The Psalmist said, 'In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?' (Psalm 56:4 NIV) 3) Seeking satisfaction in the wrong places. God said, 'My people have...forsaken...the...living water, and...dug...broken cisterns that cannot hold water.' It's said that we spend our first 50 years searching for security, and the rest of our lives looking for significance. But we don't have to. The hymn writer wrote, 'Now none but Christ can satisfy; no other name for me. There's love, life, and lasting joy, Lord Jesus found in Thee!' Are you searching for contentment? Try Jesus!-UCB

My God! My Lord! My All!

Loving God is one thing but being able to express your love for God with so much passion that flows not just from a superficial relationship with God, but a deep seathed, soul drenching, mind blowing, joy overflowing, inexplicable experience is another. Show me a woman who truly loves God and I will show you a woman who is ready to take her world!. I love this woman, I really really really do. Her passion rubs off on me like a contagious viral disease Wow! Love you Priscilla Shirer! God bless and increase this gift in you. You can check out more of her but meanwhile enjoy the clip

GOD’S TIMETABLE

‘By your patience possess your souls.’

Luke 21:19

When God makes you wait for something longer than you want to, He’s teaching you patience. Your emotions are like a wild horse—they need to be reined in. ‘Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised’ (Hebrews 10:36 NLT). Your impatience will just make you and everybody around you miserable, but it won’t rush God. He works according to His own plan and timetable: ‘…In due season we shall reap…’ (Galatians 6:9). ‘Due season’ is God’s season, not yours. You’re in a hurry, He isn’t. He takes time to do things right. You may not know what He’s doing, but He does. And that’ll have to be good enough for you. God’s timing seems to be His own business. He’s never late, but He usually isn’t early either. He takes every opportunity to develop in you the fruit of patience. But other fruits are being developed in you as well. There are several things that must arrive at the finish line at the same time in order for you to win the race. Developed potential, without character, doesn’t glorify God. If you were to become a huge success and yet be arrogant and harsh with people, that wouldn’t be pleasing to the Lord. So when you get ahead of yourself in one area, He gently but firmly blocks your progress in that area until the others catch up. You don’t appreciate any of this while it’s happening, but later on you realise what a mess you’d have made if things had been done on your timetable instead of God’s.-UCB

The Irreplaceable Baroness

Love her or hate her, it does not really matter, she ruled the country in her time and brought about radical changes that were different from the conventional. I cant help but wonder if she would have really made headlines if her gender was different? Anyways one thing is certain, this lady really had balls of steel, and to really be prime minister for 11years with all the controversies surrounding her government at the time, really makes me respect her more. Tony Blair must have really done his home work well, to defeat the conservatives and bring labour to power. I always ask people what they think of her leadership style and I get mixed reactions, and finally "I ask how many people stir up so much strife in their lifetime and in death also? And to that a colleague responds: Only a legend Elly". Hmmmm interesting. Below is an extract from the daily express which describes the Iron Lady(October 13th 1925-April 8th 2013). However we have a lot to learn from her, and in these day of really superficial people, I doubt if there can ever be any female  like her to bring radical changes. I usually say people like these just come once in a life time. But you know what? Never say never, we are on our way. It might not be as radical, but our positive impact has to be felt in our generation.YES!

RIP Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s first female prime minister, who changed her country and the world, sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. She was known as the Iron Lady, but she also had balls of steel, a tin ear and, at times, a heart of stone. Love her or hate her, she taught us some important lessons about leadership – especially about how to lead by being unreasonable.

The Power of Unreasonable People. Mrs T was called the Iron Lady because of her formidably strong will. Once she decided that something needed to be done, nothing was going to stop her. As she put it, at a moment when her followers were having second thoughts and wanted a U-turn, “you turn if you want to; the Lady is not for turning.” She was one of those leaders who achieve change by being what George Bernard Shaw famously called “unreasonable people”, in the sense that “reasonable people adapt themselves to the world. Unreasonable people attempt to adapt the world to themselves.” Shaw believed that all human progress was the result of these unreasonable people.

Balls of Steel. To be an unreasonable leader requires tremendous personal strength of character and a willingness to take risk. Mrs Thatcher (later Lady Thatcher) took charge at a time of great despair about Britain’s future, with the economy in a mess and a widespread belief at home and abroad that the country was no longer a world power. She challenged head on the conventional wisdom that nothing could be done with policies ranging from privatizing large chunks of the public sector to refusing to allow Argentina’s invasion of the Falkland Islands to succeed.

At the time, many people found this bold style of leadership surprising for a woman, though Mrs T was merely “leaning in” and taking charge long before Sheryl Sandberg recommended it. This sort of leadership can be extraordinarily inspiring, as Mrs Thatcher showed, especially to others who have become disillusioned with the existing situation and with other leaders who spout the conventional wisdom that nothing can be done. A few highly motivated people can defeat a vast number of unmotivated people who believe they are stuck with the status quo.

Tin Ear. When you are defying the conventional wisdom, it can help to be a little deaf. You cannot afford to be distracted by all the noise around you. A little blind, too. Admiral Nelson famously put his telescope to his blind eye to avoid seeing a signal from his commander telling him he could retreat from a battle. Yet this can have its downsides: a truly deaf leader fails to make good use of feedback loops that can provide valuable information.

For instance, Mrs Thatcher was clearly surprised by the strength of the rebellion among her own supporters that led them ultimately to ditch her as their leader; had she been a good listener, she would perhaps have been able to address the causes of the unrest, and save herself. The lesson here for aspiring leaders is that the tin ear is useful occasionally as a tactic, but it is crucial you do not become truly deaf to what is going on around you.

Heart of Stone. To many people, including myself growing up, Mrs Thatcher came across as uncaring and even heartless. People who knew her personally say this was far from the reality, as was illustrated well by the scene in the recent film, “Iron Lady”, starring Meryl Streep as Mrs T, where she personally wrote letters of thanks and sympathy to the families of every member of the armed forces who died during the Falklands campaign.

Perhaps given the controversial nature of the changes she wanted, which caused disruption and pain to many families and communities in parts of the country where public sector jobs were axed, she was bound to be seen as heartless by some people. And it must be hard to maintain a spirit of compassion when, as in Mrs Thatcher’s case, many people publicly shout about their hatred of you, and your life is nearly taken by terrorists. Leading change can require a thick skin, for sure.

Yet, I believe, Mrs Thatcher contributed to her unpopularity among a large part of the British population through her failure to do more to ease the pain of those who suffered most from her policies, such as coal mining towns which lost their mines, and by the apparent harshness of some of her public statements, such as calling trade unions the “enemy within” and saying “there is no such thing as society”. As a result, some of the sensible changes she introduced remains unappreciated, even though four subsequent prime ministers have continued with them largely intact. This helps explain why Britons are not united in affection for their late leader in the way Americans were when Ronald Reagan died.

Even so, if you want to be an unreasonable leader, one lesson is that you should not expect to be popular or to get much gratitude.

But when does it make sense to adopt an “unreasonable” leadership style?

Mrs Thatcher succeeded because, first, there was clearly a massive problem with things as they were. Thus a significant number of people were willing to accept that change was needed, even if they were not clear about what had to be done. Second, she came up with a solution that worked – not perfectly, but well enough that many of her changes remain largely in place over two decades after she was ousted. Had she been more selective with her tin ear, and demonstrated more compassion to those who were being hurt by the process of change, the end of her career might have been happier, and her memory more widely celebrated.

Do you face a situation where big change is needed? Do you have a workable solution? Do you have balls of steel? Then maybe this is your moment to get in touch with your inner Iron Lady and be an unreasonable leader. But take care how you use that tin ear, and never let your heart turn to stone.

                                                                 Culled from Daily Express

Lifes Little Pleasures....

You have the option of choosing almost everything in life, from a job, to a career, place to live, whom to marry, what to eat, the list goes on and on, it could be said to be endless. But you know what? when it comes to family, you don't have a choice at all. God puts you there for a reason and just you alone can play your role. The earlier we discover this the easier and better life would be.
   So this morning I ring my dad to quickly hear his voice as I make my way to work and trust me listening to a conversation between my dad and I, if you didn't know me you will sincerely think I was dating a sexagenarian as young as I was as you would constantly  hear words like "one and only" as he fondly calls me , darling, beautiful etc.

                                                                            

Yea I have got a very romantic/funky dad, you can take my word for it(smiles) and nothing makes him happier than listening to me over the phone, he never seems to get enough of hearing me after these X years(hmmmm you can solve the differentiation to find out what X is lol!). And as he goes on and on, giving me all the trending gist's in his circle, he goes "yea the young man came to me and said bla bla bla and he never knew I had gotten all the info from facebook" and I laughed so hard. Dont forget I said my dad is a sexagenarian. The way my parents go on and on over this facebook thing really cracks me up. The other day my mum actually threatened  my kid brother by saying she was going to get a facebook account to keep an eye on him. And all of us children were reeling with laughter. These are individuals who can hardly operate their phones and I say "technology has left them behind, but yet they can tell and want sophisticated phones. Anyways life is simple and beautiful. Nothing is for ever I always say, so cherish those who God has put in your life because tomorrow isn't guaranteed .

                                                                    

Fake It Till You Become It!

Its quite intriguing to realise the effect our day to day activities reflect a different message to others as well as unconsciously have a remarkable effect on our perception of our self worth.Motivation might get you started, but habit is what keeps you going. Really inspiring video on the power of non verbals by Amy Cuddy. Her personal story is one that really got me thinking. "Fake it till you become it she says" and when you listen to her, you know why shes come up with that.

He Intervenes...

Most times we go through situations in life and we feel so despondent, we feel as though our situations are so unique to us and  nobody is ever going to understand. But you know what, the bible says no situations has ever overcome man, except that which is common to man. Going through the loss of a loved one? loss of a job? broken dreams? shattered desires? Its not new! You are not the only one, before you, there were many circumstances such as you have got now and the truth is that after you, there will still be many others. So cheer up and don't call for a pity party or be in the midst of people who are ever ready to organize one on your behalf. I have one of my very dear friends, who lost his wife and a week old baby in an inferno as well as all his possessions and till today, I cant help but wonder what could be worse, but you know what? he was not the only one that lost family members and constantly families mourn the death of several members at the same time. But from my  personal experience  God always intervenes especially if we put our trust in Him When God praised Job for his integrity, satan replied, ‘You have always put a wall of protection around him…take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you.’ So God gave satan permission to test Job, but He placed limits on how far he could go (Job 2:6). There are times ‘…When the enemy comes in like a flood…’ (Isaiah 59:19 NKJV) to attack your mind, your marriage, your ministry, and anything that’s born of God in your life. When that happens, Isaiah says, ‘…The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard [shield] against him’ (Isaiah 59:19 NKJV). When you feel you’re at breaking point and can’t handle one more thing, the Holy Spirit lifts up the wall of the blood of Jesus and tells satan, ‘This far and no further!’ Paul says, ‘We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed’ (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NIV). There’s a wall of protection around you. There’s also a time for your deliverance. ‘…In the time of my favour I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you’ (2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV). God will step in and intervene. The Psalmist said, ‘…When my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I’ (Psalm 61:2 NAS). When your resources are depleted and you think you’re going under for the last time, God has provided a refuge that’s higher than your circumstances, a place where you’re under divine protection and the enemy has no jurisdiction. All you have to do is lift your eyes toward heaven.

a.mour...

“Love is friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses.”

Ann Landers (1918-2002)

World Of Possibilities!

Now I watch this 14 year old, play against renowned golfers like Tiger woods, Rory Mcllory etc and I just shake my head in amazement. He is such a determined young man, with so much nerves and I see him going places. And in the commentators language "This boy is a natural, remember his name". You can go places, if you are willing to do what it takes. Discover your dreams, and work hard at achieving it. Letting go of what constitutes an obstacle to your dreams. As you go out today, dream big, work hard and pray hard! YES!
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Fourteen-year-old Tianlang Guan

Tianlang Guan walked on to the 18th green to a round of applause and walked off it, a few moments to standing ovation and shouts of "Guan! Guan! Guan!". In between the two he sank a putt of some 15 feet or so from the fringe, curling it around and in to make a birdie. He plucked off his cap, punched the air, and broke into a broad smile that showed off the big gap between his two front teeth.

For the first time since he took the first tee he looked like what he was: a 14-year-old kid, the youngest player in the history of the Masters, the youngest player in any major since Young Tom Morris in 1865. When Tiger Woods won his first major, Guan was not even born.

That putt meant Guan had gone around Augusta in 73, one over par, two strokes better than the score of the defending champion, Bubba Watson. For the few hundred fans gathered around in the gloaming it felt like they were getting a sneak glimpse of the shape of things to come. Guan himself was sure they were. Asked if he felt he could win the tournament, he thought about it and replied with utmost confidence and in immaculate English: "Probably not this year, but in the future." His long term goals? He says he doesn't just want to win one major, but "all four in one year".

Ben Crenshaw, who partnered Guan in practice and again in the first round, has seen all manner of things in the 40 years he has been playing as a professional, was pretty much dumbstruck. "He played like a veteran," Crenshaw said, shaking his head. "A veteran who has been around the block many, many times." He talks like one too. He said the round was "a dream come true".

Crenshaw reckoned that during the round Guan had played "four of the most beautiful pitches I have ever seen on a golf course." He whistled with wonder when he thought about the shots he watched Guan play on 13 to make a birdie, and on 17 to save par. When Guan chipped on to the 6th from the back of the green, Crenshaw stopped, stood still, and applauded along with everyone else in the gallery.

When Guan was playing the course with a member last weekend, he shot 69. Every night since he arrived he has had to start on his homework after finishing. His parents promised to give him the night off after his first round but only because he has an early tee time on Friday.

Guan qualified for the Masters by winning the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, a competition organised by the R&A and Augusta National to promote the game in that part of the world. His age alone meant that he has been the hot topic of conversation all week long. But no one was expecting him to play this well. Apart from Guan and his family, of course. "He did very well, amazing," said Guan's father. "But he was only as good as he always is." There were a few nerves on the first tee, Guan said, but "then I hit a great tee shot and after that everything just felt very comfortable."

The boy is a natural. Remember his name
                   culled from the bbc news

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

 

‘That…which we have heard…seen…touched...’

1 John 1:1

You can draw closer to the Lord if you really want to. You can have first-hand knowledge of Him. You don’t have to settle for Sunday morning sound bites, second-hand information, or a long-distance relationship. You can get ‘up close and personal’ with Him. John writes, ‘That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.’ Drawing closer to God calls for developing a greater awareness of His presence. This brings three great benefits: 1) Friendship. No human being, no matter how wonderful, can be everything you need. But the Lord can. In Scripture He is described as a ‘friend who sticks closer than a brother’ (Proverbs 18:24 NIV). He will stick by you through every season of life, the bad ones as well as the good ones. For decades the motto of the Marines has been ‘Semper Fidelis,’ which is Latin for ‘Ever faithful.’ Even when you’re not faithful to God, He will be faithful to you. 2) Compassion. As a young disciple, John wanted to call fire down from heaven on a town that refused overnight accommodation to Christ and His disciples (Luke 9:54). But after a lifetime of walking with Jesus he wrote, ‘Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love’ (1 John 4:8 NIV). 3) Confidence. Whatever life throws at you, you can handle, confident in the strength of God. ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13 NKJV). -UCB

 

                                               

 

 

 

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Breaking Grounds; The Fastest Woman In The World!

The fastest woman in the world: Meet the Scotswoman who is tipped to be the first British female to race in Formula One

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I am not necessarily one to sit in front of the screens watching the formula one race, but I met this guy who surprisingly does not like football(yea  thought all men loved football, like it flowed in their veins lol) for anything but will not let anything come in between him and the formula one race, in fact he even pays for the best seat in the grand prix way before it starts. Its amazing to see what interests various people. However passion has a way of rubbing off on others and now at least I can give it a bit of my attention. However I was really inspired when I saw Susie Wolff on the One Show and l was quite impressed at how much she had put in to be where she is now, in the wake of being a male dominated, fairly dangerous sport. She happens to be the first British female in the sport and despite  Spaniard Maria Villota having lost her right eye in a testing crash in July 2012,She didn't let that deter her at all. During the show, I could just sense a woman passionate about what she does with so much humility and in her words" Susie said, I don't race to prove how good women can be against men, I race because its my passion". Hmmmm really lovely lady I must say.

Formula One female test driver Susie Wolff has announced that she will appear in a BBC documentary this spring about her life as the only woman in F1.

30-year-old Susie, from Oban, Argyll, is tipped to become the only female racing driver in the sport and the film, The Fastest Woman In The World, follows her life and career as a test driver.

Directed by her BAFTA-nominated brother David Stoddart, 31, the film also features appearances from Formula One race ace Lewis Hamilton and racing legend David Coulthard.

Susie, who is a developmental driver for the Williams F1 team began go-karting when she was eight and now lives in Switzerland with her husband, Austrian racing driver Toto Wolff.

She said: 'Shooting the film was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I

'’m a fairly private person, so to have my brother follow me for nine months, through some pretty difficult times - let’s just say it was a big challenge.'

David said: 'It was tough combining the role of documentary maker and brother. I had to remind myself that I was there to film Susie's story, but during the more difficult moments my instinct as a brother kicked in.

'It was challenging at times to strike the balance, but it's a great story that needed to be told.'

He added: 'Susie was very open and honest, and I’m enormously grateful to her for that, and for giving me a rare glimpse into life in Formula One.'

Other names to have driven for Williams in the past include Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill and Jenson Button.  

Susie said: 'I don't race to prove how good women can be against men. 

'I race because it’s my passion and I hope this documentary will give an insight into a very competitive world, in which I’ve been racing since I was a young girl.'

Susie is currently the only female driver in the sport and the film, directed by her brother and BAFTA-winning film maker, David, will follow her career in the traditionally male-dominated industry

30-year-old Susie, who is married to Austrian racing driver Toto Wolff, is a developmental driver for the Williams F1 team 

                                                        Culled from mail online(april 2013)

Perception Is Everything!

I m really inspired by the originality of this young lady, Its really admirable to see a lady of her background so comfortable in her own skin. Perception is really everything. Little wonder Herman Merville says "Its better to fail in Originality than succeed in Imitation" and I so agree. It takes "YOU" to propel "YOU" to the next level. YES!! This is not rocket science.

And I Meet a Millionaire....

Yea I know some of you with itchy ears cant wait to hear what I have got to say, but catch yourself its ellyeleanor blog, solely inspiration, and not gossip, so its not what you're thinking(though I am going to be one and have a man who is one shortly winks lol). Yea I know I have deflated someones desire to go on lol! But seriously it was just like any other day at work and I had several people booked in my diary to see me, and the appointments before lunch breaks are not as fun for me as I have been skipping my breakfast for sometime,(please no preaching here, I know all of that, breakfast is the most important meal of the day bla bla bla, don't worry about me, I will be fine lol) and when its just time for lunch, I don't want to be dealing with trivial issues/complaints. Three days ago however just before my lunch, I had a guy booked in my diary to see me and as there wasn't enough information about him, I was just ready to run along and treat the appointment as unimportant before I was halted half way and I was told that my appointment was already waiting at reception and I went arrggggh, "I am so hungry". Anyways I wouldn't keep him waiting and in my usual style, I gave him a warm handshake and a lovely smile not the best I could as you can appreciate at this time there were growling sounds from my tummy. However it turned out to be one pleasant experience, this man so inspired me not because of what he had(Yea he was a millionaire in the strongest currency in the world, thanks to the Queen) but how he came across, what he had put into life, his perception of live, and top of it all his simplicity. When I saw him, he didn't strike me like he had anything, I was just warm to him because its in my make up to be so. But when I looked into his holdings I went wow! though I didn't show it lol! But in his words he goes "Elly its been 30 years of hardwork". He practically summarised his life story for me, he told me his business strategy, his main clients and even told me that business was not as good at the moment and that he was planning retirement soon. I never felt an iota of pride in him, and I was so relaxed with this guy maybe because of the way he spoke to me or the age, it felt like my dad speaking to me and at this point I felt like an interviewer lol and the hunger suddenly disappeared and you know what, I was so inspired and ended up having lunch at 4pm on that day. I said to myself, there are 24hrs in a day and if I spent some time reasoning critically on the business environment or even my immediate environment,I could possibly come up with a prodigious idea that could change my life and the world. We look at lord Sugar, Richard Branson, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, to mention but a few and feel this people are super human, but the truth is that they are not and we can really make it, if we put our hearts to it and with God on our side, for those of you who believe in God and hope to believe later. You might not end up being a millionaire, but work in such a way that you put in nothing short of your best in this life. Imagine the time spent on social networking sites just idling away, and imagine what you would have come up with if that time was put to creative thinking. Don't get me wrong, I believe in relaxing and enjoying oneself, but the problem is that the saying goes "work hard!play hard" but these days people want to work less and play hard! and that is where misplaced priorities come in. The sad thing in this day and age is how our mentality /perception of how we treat people has changed. People most times are treated based on their net worth which is absolute silliness. The video below is one that caught my attention and I thought I had share this, however its not really a gender issue I must say but a human issue which should be dealt with individually. I can remember being in a relationship with some guy and on one of the days when he sees, this girl cares less about his bank balance, he goes "Elly there is nothing a man can do for you but love you, that is all he owes you because I see that you are someone who will have whatever you want because you work really hard and you are a determined person". Hearing that not only made my day but really spurred me, and with that mentality, comes so much respect from both parties and it takes the relationship to another level, which must not necessarily be marriage but a true friendship and a hand to hold you through stormy waters. Invest in people for who they are, and not what they have, trust me life has a way of paying you back for every act, good or evil. Enjoy the Video, I really did ):

‘…Be content with such things as you have..

 

 If your goals are God-centred, He will help you to achieve them. But if you are asking Him for something just because your neighbour has it, you’ll be disappointed. The Bible says, ‘…No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly’ (Psalms 84:11 NAS). When God withholds something from you, trust Him; He knows what He’s doing. God loves you too much to give you what you’re not ready for, can’t handle, doesn’t fit into His plan for your life, or will end up draining your energies and maybe even destroying you. When you covet something, make it essential to your happiness, and beg God to give it to you, you’re asking Him to replace Himself with something you consider more important. When you do this, God may allow you to experience the consequences Israel suffered. ‘He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul’ (Psalms 106:15 NKJV). Don’t reach the end of your life only to look back with regret on a shattered marriage, children who’ve gone astray, a blighted conscience, or the pain of realising you missed out on God’s best. Our problem is not that we don’t want God; it’s that we want God—plus—a house by the sea, an impressive career, a perfect spouse, or whatever catches our fancy. That’s why Jesus said, ‘…Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses’ (Luke 12:15 NKJV). Life is not built on things, it’s built on relationships. And the first relationship you need to work on is your relationship with God.
               culled from UCB;  http://www.ucb.co.uk/word-for-today.html

Elly Eleanor

Fulfilment for me is inspiring you through my passion for God, respect for hardwork, insatiable appetite to be the best at what I do and make a  lasting difference  that lives on when I am no more, to really live and not just be left in this world to make up the statistics, to see men and women who have worked hard at developing themselves and as a result are comfortable in their own skin because both the extrinsic and intrinsic factors are dealt with.
Inspired by this blog then please spread the word and lets change our world.
Criticisms /suggestions? e-mail (ellyeleanor123@gmail.com).
Do have an amazing 2nd Quarter;
Cheerioo.

Ellys Thoughts....

"Most times the hardest thing in life is to know which bridge to cross and which to burn"--
 David Russell.  And I so agree with him.

Sandra of Vivabella Designs LTD wrote----





Hey ladies, you must not get married just because of "accidental pregnancy". Just because you become pregnant along the line does not mean you have to bury your destiny there! Getting pregnant does not guarantee he will marry you, and getting married does not guarantee a great destiny! Lets be wise.#reallifeissues#
The reality of this made me smile as I puzzled over the words and I ended up saying to myself, mistakes in life are inevitable but our reactions to our own mistakes are a defining factor which classifies us as either wise or foolish.

Developing Intimacy

 

Christianity has become quite  a bit complicated I would say as a result of doctrines, politics and men trying to please there sinful lustful desires and bring in things to this religion that are not meant to be there. I get asked many times if I am catholic, church of England, Anglican etc. And most of the time, I say I am Christian and most times a lot of individuals get confused and say but I thought you are either catholic, church of England etc and I end up saying I am Pentecostal. But you know what, I have got a couple muslim friends and once your muslim, your muslim, just one word 'MUSLIM' QED. Most times it ends up being a battle of supremacy between the various denominations with people being bound by ever changing church doctrines. The time however has come for anyone who wants to be close to God to draw near to God and damn vain fables.

Regardless of who we are most times if we are really serious to have a relationship with God and with the right motives God reveals himself to us. I read this book "I Dared To Call Him Father" by Bilquis sheikh and I cant forget  how she narrated her encounter with God.

 

 God is not as He is presented most of the time, as an insensitive dictator, who punishes us once we go against the rules but s a Father who is compassionate slow to anger and plenteous in mercy.
The easiest way to know God is through His words in which His ways and acts are revealed to us.
If your starting out with the bible, I would advise you start out with short verses and  as you read personalise the verses because you know what? It is the mind of God made flesh, its not just for the people of the stone age, but its as relevant to us just as it was of relevance to them.

Today as I journeyed to work, I read my bible from my mobile device and as I came to this verse Isaiah 45:2" I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron":  I stopped and prayed with it. Did you hear me say on my way to work? Yes! prayer should not be limited to a 2 minutes microwave hurried morning prayer when all we can do is think of running late to work or a mumbled prayer as we sleep off o the sofa watching telly at night. The bible says pray always. "Men ought always to pray and not faint".  Remember the verse? You also see that I did not adopt any particular posture, that is all doctrines of men, God sees the heart and weighs the intention.

 Now on personalising, your prayer, I will share with you how I prayed  Isa 45;2--
"Father I thank you for your loving kindness and your faithfulness that are forever sure and they are new every morning. Its your mercy that has kept me and your grace that has uplifted me, because of my own I can do nothing. Lord if you had not been by side, fought all my battles, comforted me in my affliction and made a way even when I was filled with my own ways, maybe by now I would have gone bonkers. Father I lay my life and everything I am before you and I pray that you go ahead of me and make every crooked way in my life straight be it self made or planned by others. Every impossibility in my path of living to fulfilment in every area of my life, be it gates of brass to my destiny may they be broken and every bar of iron that has locked my mentality,  may it be cut asunder.
It is well with me, it is well with my destiny, I am blessed and not just blessed, but 'A Blessing' to my generation. Thank you Dad!

Prayer really does become easier/more interesting/ and more personalised when we deepen our relationship with God. You must not adopt the prayer of any man, don't get me wrong, sometimes we need guidance but guide it should be and not rules for living/prayer.   

Life is too big, to be ventured alone, get to know the One who has seen it all, knows it all, and can do it all.
                                                                  *THINK LONGTERM*

Developing The Right Attitude

Strength and Sense must not compete with each other but complement each other and connect together. Small things apparently can become tall things that subsequently overshadow all things. Having someone to love you and be there for you is a very precious thing, and being careful and conscientious to say thank you, helps that person feel appreciated and valued

Saying thank you doesn't take a lot of effort, just a little consideration. An attitude of gratitude, determines the altitude by which we can excel into greater things in life. Saying thank you is a positive virtue which every decent person should aspire. "Thank You" says, " I value you and the effort you put into doing what you do for me". It is a way of giving back to the person who gave to you. Saying thank you costs nothing, but yields great returns.

Always remember the small things really matter in life, like I always say, its not about doing big/great things but most times about doing the small/regular things in different ways that leave big impacts.
                                                                       *THINK LONGTERM* ---- ELLY




                                                                                                       
                                                                           

The New Liquid Gold..

Yea now I go into my favourite health shop (Holland and Barret) and as I browse through the shelves, this range of argan oil products get my attention. I go further and read the effects/benefits/uses and its looks too good to be true. However I am not as gullible, so even though I have heard of argan oil in the past, I go do my research online, gathering reviews from different women of colour as well seeking the opinion of some friends who I call 'skin care conscious' people like myself lol! Finally I felt I  had gathered enough information and three days later I go into the shop and I pick up the products, and since there was a managerial offer on, I even pick up more than I bargained and you know what? Its one of the best skin care decisions I have made recently. This oil is miraculous I must say, the eye cream is so lovely and the face oil has an instant effect. I have  been using it for about six days now, and I am so confident to not only speak about it, but recommend it.
And if you ask me a combination of shea butter, argan oil, carrot oil and cocoa butter will have an amazing effect. Its also proven to reduce the effect of pregnancy stretch marks, skin scars/lines etc. Please don't forget your fruit, veg and water as they are so essential for that healthy skin. Below is a summary of the benefit of argan oil as summarised by the argan oil society. Share your views be it contrary or concordant.
  

Argan Oil Benefits For Skin

Extracted from the kernel nuts of Argania Spinosa (Official name of Argan Tree), Argan oil has myriad uses in culinary and cosmetic fields. But it is in the cosmetic arena where it has gained so much popularity that it is now called liquid gold by European women because of its numerous cosmetic uses. It is highly valued by skin specialists and beauty experts. Argan oil has long been used as a beauty agent by Berber women; however it was not until recently when its rejuvenating qualities became known to outside world, thanks to Moroccan government which is now taking keen interest in replenishing the source of this precious oil.

Benefits of Argan Oil for Skin

Argan oil is a complex mixture of chemical compounds like fatty acids (80%), polyphenoles, antioxidants, carotenoids and other acids. Each of these components adds in a particular way to the inventory of uses of Argan oil. Some of the benefits of Argan oil for the health and treatment of the skin can be recognized as;

1. Argan oil protects the skin against wrinkles appeared due to premature aging. It also helps reduce the appearance of crow’s feet (wrinkles under the eyes).
2. It is a very good remedy for dry skin. It does freshen and soften the skill more readily than any other skin softness creams or oils do.
3. Protein rich Argan oil is very good for the elasticity of skin. It strengthens the protein bonding structures in the skin which works to tighten the skin and make it look fresh.
4. Argan oil is good for reducing skin irritation. It quickly heals the marks caused by scratching on skin.
5. One of the most amazing facts about Argan oil is that along with dry skin it is equally good for oily skin. Sebum is an oily substance secreted by sebaceous glands which keeps the skin wet and protects against dryness, but its excess secretion is bad for the skin. Argan oil regulates the secretion of sebum and keeps it to a manageable level.
6. Argan oil helps to prevent stretch marks on skin made by pregnancy.
7. It gives strength to the weak and easily breakable nails. It also strengthens the delicate skin at the root of nails and makes it smooth.
8. Argan oil is useful in the treatment of skin inflammatory diseases like Acne, Chickenpox and Psoriasis. Red dots or patches appear on the skin in these diseases.
9. In Arthritic and Rheumatic conditions in which joints and tissues of the body are damaged, Argan oil greatly soothes and reduces the pain.

Method of applying Argan oil

On Face: If you have pure raw Argan oil, then a few drops are sufficient to apply on the whole face. It is usually applied at night as a moisturizing agent. It is non-greasy and non-oily and absorbs into the skin very easily and does not leave any oily feel. It can also be used as a base for make-up by women because of its non-oily nature.
On Nails: For nails, a mixture of equal lemon juice and Argan oil would suffice. There is no need of 100 % Argan oil. Just dip the nails and cuticles into this mixture for some 10 minutes. It will increase the softness of cuticles and strengthen the nails.

                                          Source: Argan Oil society