Get Financial Help During Covid-19

Hi

Demetrius here.

I hope and pray that you and your family are safe during this Covid-19 crises, we will get through this together.

I just wanted to give you some information that may be useful to you and your family, as we navigate these uncharted waters.

If you are struggling financially, due to Covid-19, help may be just a click away. The Federal Government has approved additional funding to assist families, as we embark upon these challenging times. The program has been included in the Cares Act: Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).

Even if you do qualify to receive Unemployment Compensation, or have been denied benefits, for whatever reason, you still qualify to receive this additional $600.00 per week.

The information below is for residents of the State of Michigan. If you live outside of the State of Michigan, visit your state's Unemployment Agency website, and search for the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) link.

The link below will direct you to our website. Click on the yellow Covid-19 Information Tab. 
This will direct you to the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation link.

Click on the link to create an account and submit your information to the State. The State will need this information to process you claim and to issue those well needed fund$

I hope this information was helpful to you.


Here is the link to our website:
DSandridge.Com

"Leading In The Midst Of A Storm"

     As a man of faith, the word of God, the Bible, is a valuable asset to me as to how I respond to life. Not just how I respond, but how I plan for the future. Although this book has traveled through the chambers of time, it has not lost its power to change lives.

     Here is a story found in this timeless book:

Jesus Calms the Storm 

Mark 4:35-41

35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side."
36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 
37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 
38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" 
39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 
40 He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" 
41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"


     This story shows us that no matter what we face in our daily lives, we can survive and conquer storms. Leaders lead! Not only in words, but in their actions.

     Let us dissect the text.

     The first thing we should notice, is the fact that Jesus made a direct and blunt statement: "Let us go over to the other side." The disciples were extremely familiar with him. Whenever he speaks, people listen. Not just listen at the words coming out of his mouth, but also observed his actions. This is why it is imperative to "Know" your "Leader" Real leaders can say very little in word count, but those words have the power and the ability to move people to action.

     How a leader speaks is just as important as to what a leader says. "Let us go over to the other side." He did not say Let me go over to the other side. When he said, "Let us..." He was referring to the disciples, they were included in the "Us." When a leader speaks, pay close attention to what they say, and how they say it.

     Secondly,  the text also says that there were other boats with him. Why is this even mentioned or important? This shows us that the influence of "Leadership" is far-reaching. Your reputation and track record precedes you.  People are watching you even if you are unaware. As a Leader, please understand that you bare the responsibility of leading your team, and sometimes your leadership will impact people in the stands, ("the other boats").

     Thirdly, Jesus was able to sleep in the midst of a terrible storm. The question is, why? Did he not care about the crew of the ship? Did he not even care about himself? I don't think that was the case. I believe this was Jesus' way on using this situation as a teaching moment. A moment to show the disciples, in real-time, how to handle storms that show up in our lives, even those storms that show up unannounced. This is another special characteristic of a Great Leader, the ability to remain cool, calm and collected. To show confidence, but still have the fortitude to not downplay its severity.

     The reason I think Jesus was trying to use this situation as a "Teaching Moment" is how he responded to the disciples, after he spoke to the winds: He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"

     The disciples clearly recognized that he was the "Teacher" ("Teacher, don't you care if we drown?") but failed to understand that this was a teaching moment. I truly believe that Jesus went to sleep on purpose. Not as a person, that was tired, but as a teacher, that needed to illustrate a lesson. One of the essential skill-set of a great Leader is the ability to use any particular situation to covey a message.
   
     As we take a somber look at the crises that our country is facing today, it is clear that strong leadership is vitally important. Our survival depends on it. Covid-19 does not know borders or the occupants of those borders. Its mission is to destroy human life, period. Furthermore, our mission is to serve and protect human life.

     You may not hold a public office, or a president of a large corporation, you are still a leader. somebody is being influenced by you. The question is, are you a good leader? How do you handle a crises?  Are you able to speak in a way that gives people confidence in your ability to lead? Are you able to handle the heat in the kitchen, the heat that comes with criticism?

    You do have a part to play in all of this. You may be asking, what's my part? You can start with your family. You can help in your community. Encourage those that are connected to you to practice social distancing..."Stay Home!" Say it in a way that resonate with them. It's just that simple. That's what leaders do, step-up to the plate and lead.

     Being a great leader does not mean you are perfect. Nobody is perfect. We don't know everything, and that's okay. What's not okay is to lead in dishonesty.

     It's okay not to have all the answers. It's okay to ask for help. It's even okay to admit when you  are wrong. Asking for help and not having all the answers does not show a sign of weakness. It shows the strength of a great Leader! A real Leader knows that they need to be surrounded by people that are perhaps smarter, but still have the ability to follow their Leader.

     Real leaders welcome  partnerships. Partnerships that have the leeway to speak truth to power. This is what really solidifies great leadership. This healthy exchange holds a good leader accountable, which makes him a better Leader, that is fully welcomed by a real leader.

     If you really want people to follow you, lead from a place of transparency. Speak the truth, even if that truth is painful. Speak the truth with empathy. Connect with those that you are leading. Be willing to love people, because that's all you have in this world, People.

     Take the time to reflect on your leadership. How can you improve? Remember, there is always room for improvement. What can you do to make life a little better for someone other than yourself?

You Have What It Takes!!!

Thanks,

Please leave a comment below...

What Does Racism Have To Do With Poverty?

I was asked this question, "What does Racism have to do with Poverty?" This is my answer to that question.

First, we have to define what poverty really is. Poverty has nothing to with how much money you have or don't have. Poverty has nothing to do with the color of your skin or your zip code. Poverty is a mindset. You can have plenty of money in the bank and still be poor.

Your mindset is the key to having a good life or not having one: "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." You are what your heart embraces. To put it another way, you will continue to behave the way you believe. In order to change your behavior, you have to change your beliefs.

With that being said, a poverty mindset will cause you to experience lack in every area of your life. Not only will you suffer deficiencies in your bank accounts, but in your friendship accounts, business and personal relationships as well. A poverty mindset is detrimental to your personal growth, and will gravely impact your financial potential.

Now let us delve into the term Racism, and the impact that it has on the perpetrator. Contrary to popular belief, Racism does more harm to the person that is inflicting it than the one that's being inflicted. Why? Because the person that is being inflicted has the ability to not become the victim of it. This is a powerful revelation. No matter what people think of you or try to inflict upon you, you have the power to not accept it. Knowing your self-worth is the key.

When you become aware of your Self-Worth, the real value you bring to the world, certain things will never be tolerated again. And at the top of that list is, Racism!

Here are the implications of Racism for the perpetrator:

• Low Self-Esteem
• Frustrations
• Lack

The Perpetrator has more to loose than the person that's being victimized. Why? 

The perpetrator has closed himself off from the possibilities of connecting with a human-being. Not a Black man, not a white man, not an Asian man but a human-being. 

The perpetrator has to first understand that every human-being has been uniquely crafted on purpose and with purpose, by the Creator of the Universe. This is first and foremost. If you don't get this part right, your entire life is meaningless. 

Synergy is always created between people, regardless of race. The human race is the most valuable asset that we have on planet Earth.

The race that the Human-Race should be involved in is the Green Back Race! Show Us the Money Honey! If this is important to you, then my suggestion is connect to as many people as possible. People that you can add value to and vice-versa. This is when life will begin to flourish. And the reason why I know this, because it has for me.

Thanks,

Author D. Sandridge

www.DSandridge.Com

www.KillRacism.Shop

www.YourEncounter4Life.BlogSpot.Com

Stewardship!

Sunday's Meditation:

This 11-Letter word is the difference between the Haves and the Have Nots. It's the difference between Wealth and Poverty.

Do you ever wonder why certain people are successful, and other people struggle, living paycheck-to-paycheck?

How often have you pulled up to a stop light and looked over out of your car window, and saw a very nice shiny car, perhaps your dream car?

Did you ever say to yourself, "Man, I wish I could have that car?" Or, what about the Christmas party at your boss's home, the house that's nestled prestigiously in a "Gated Community", beautifully furnished with all the fixings and amenities of a luxurious life?

Okay, I hear some of you Thinking..."Life isn't about material stuff"...You are Absolutely correct.

I am mainly talking about principal here. The Principle of Stewardship Works in every area of your Life

Okay let's move away from the material stuff for a moment. Let's look at you physically. Is the person you see in the mirror what you have envisioned you to be? Are you at your ideal weight, or can you afford to shed a few pounds?

The quality of your life is always defined by the quality of your choices, which is a reflection of your stewardship. Your life did not start out being overweight, but you somehow have found yourself tipping the scales. Why? In most cases, lack of good stewardship.

Stewardship is being responsible for someone else's possessions, in such a way that it becomes personal to you. Even though it's not yours, you treat it as though it is.

We own nothing in this life. Everything that we have has been leased to us to manage. And the better you manage, the more you get to manage. This is a very simple principle, but very complex in how we handle it.

See, God gives everybody what they absolutely need to succeed. It's just up to that individual as to how it's handled.

Did you know that you absolutely can have that car, perfect body and health, or the house that you so desire? If you expect to have a full and well-rounded life, these are the three areas that you must concentrate on:

a.)  Your Relationship With God.

b.)  Your Relationship With You.

c.)  Your Relationship With Others.

Your relationship with God is the most important one, so let's deal with that one first.

1.)  The Bible asks a very fundamental question: "What would it profit a man to gain the whole world, and then lose his Soul?"

There's absolutely nothing in this world that's worthy of losing your Soul over. So, make your relationship with God a top priority. Spend quality time with him in prayer, seeking direction for your Life. If God gave you his Son, He will give you anything based on your ability to handle them. Show God through your relationship with him, that you can handle the blessings that He has waiting for you, by your impeccable stewardship.

2.)  Just like you spend time with God, you need to spend time with yourself, too. Growing and developing is your personal responsibility to Life. Always seek to improve everything about you. This includes your body & health. Make a commitment to eat healthier, get that body moving like Coach Les preaches everyday. Just Love You!

3.)  The ability to embrace new and healthy relationships is solely predicated on how you handle the ones that you are currently in. It takes time and energy, and a lot of effort on your part to nurture good relationships. People make the world go around, not technology and social media. Genuinely love people and get to know them. Don't dislike someone because your close friend doesn't like them. Make your own decision about the people you allow in your life. When choosing friends, you must make sure those individuals are Suited to assist you in your purpose, and vise- versa. You must always surround yourself around people that have your best interest.

These three things are what God has given us, so that we can have and enjoy a wealthy, healthy, and wholesome life. If you are a Good Steward over these three areas of you life, there's nothing in this world that can stop your Success!

If you have an old car, keep it clean and change the oil. Check for old French Fries in between the seats. Get the bird poop off the glass and windshield. Treat that old car like it was a brand new one, just like the one you admired from a distance.

Take care of that body that God has given you. Exercise and walk daily. Eat healthier.

Clean-up that apartment that you live in. Make your bed up in the mornings. Pick up the trash and debris in front of your apartment building. Take pride in your Environment!

In other words, be a good Steward over what you do have and what you have control over. Show the world how blessed your are, through your awesome Stewardship.

Author D. Sandridge

12 Steps to Becoming a Millionaire

Step #4__
Change Your Thinking

There was a television commercial that I saw a long time ago that said, "You are what you eat." The commercial was referring to eating healthier by adding fruit to your diet. I thought about the makers of that commercial and analyzed the message that they were trying to get across to the many Americans that viewed it. It was a catchy phrase.

But, as I look at our society as a whole, I think that it's becoming more evident that it's not just what we are eating that's killing us, we are killing ourselves with our "Thinking"...It's not our diet; it's our thinking.

"As a man thinketh in his heart so is he..." Mark Twain commented, "The trouble with the world is not that people know too little, but that they know so many things that ain't so." If you don't think properly your life suffers tremendously.

Our thinking has caused us to respond the wrong way, say the wrong things, eat the wrong foods, work the wrong job, marry the wrong people, invest in the wrong things, stand on the corner for the wrong reason, and even hurt people for no reason at all.

Has your "Thinking" caused you to do any of the things above? If so, there is hope. The hope is; this is just a mentality that has caused you to become trapped by your own thinking, through your limited experiences.

Changing your environment will create a different experience, only if you change your thinking also. Do you remember the saying, "You can take the people out of the country, but it is hard to take the country out of people."

The same is true with you. You can change locations, but if you never change your thinking, the new location will eventually start to look like the one you just left.

Changing your thinking means embracing new ideas and concepts. You have to get out of your comfort zone in order to penetrate the old-way of thinking--which means there has to be a paradigm shift.

If you can only think Better...You can Live Better!

Stop Trying To Live Saved!

Okay, now that I have your attention, let me explain....
As I revisited this verse, (Romans 10:9-10) revelation began to resonate in my spirit.

There is a very popular saying moving through-out our cities, churches, and especially, on our college campuses: “The Struggle is Real.” Although, this particular statement is often referred to the natural struggles of Life, it also has spiritual implications as well.

There are a lot of frustrated Christians, struggling with their salvation. And the reason is, they are basing their salvation on how they feel. This is the problem: The worst they feel, the harder they try to work to feel Saved, through their own actions and so called Good Deeds.

Salvation was never meant to make you feel good; its primary function was to redeem you and put you back in right standing with God. Therefore, when you are in right standing with God, your spirt is free from the entanglement of sin. This is what you feel, Freedom from Sin.

Salvation is never based on what you do or how you feel, it’s always what God did through his Son, Jesus. That’s it, nothing more and nothing less. A lot of Christians over-complicate this through their traditions.

What we as Christians should focus our attention on, is not trying to live saved, but learning how to LOVE PEOPLE. The work of Salvation is already a Completed work. It has already been settled over 2000 years ago. There’s nothing more or less that you and I can do that would improve the perfect work that God has already done.

Salvation was birthed out of Love, and therefore, it has to be perpetuated in Love. For God so Loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son… And Salvation is a result of the Love that God has for people.

Find ways to give and show Love to the Unloved. This is what true Salvation is all about. When you are truly Loving people the way God has intended, Salvation is at work in your life.

People that are having a hard time trying to Live Saved, are people that have a problem with Love. Think about it…I’m not going to purposely hurt you if I really Love You? Neither am I going to do harm to myself if I really Love Me?

Once you have accepted Salvation, confessed with your mouth, and believed in the finished work of Christ, you are Saved, period. It’s Done. Salvation is Complete and Settled, It’s our Love that we need to perfect.

Stop trying to live saved…Start Living to Love.

Love God.

Love Yourself.

Love Others.


Author D. Sandridge

Your Gift Will Make Room For You!

I have some very exciting news to share with you:

YOU HAVE JUST BEEN  APPROVED FOR THAT NEW CONSTRUSTION HOME TO BE BUILT.

However, there is one more step that you have to do to complete the process for this approval: You need to bring a GIFT in order to “Close the Deal.” And guess what…You don’t even have to go shopping for it either.

You already have everything you need to close any deal in your life, in order to succeed in this world. That’s right! When you arrived here on planet earth, God equipped you with a Special Gift/Talent. Every person has a gift, and that Gift is directly attached to your Wealth, and your Wealth is attached to your GIFT. 

If you are not yet in your wealthy place, the place that was designed for you, I suggest that you take a good look at your Gift.

Have you identified what your real gift/talent is, or are you doing something because your best friend is doing it? Are you working on a JOB instead of your Destiny?

The Bible says that your Gift “Will” make room for you. If you are feeling cramped and frustrated in your current career, perhaps it may be that you are not doing the thing that you were created to do.

When you are in your right lane, Life becomes more meaningful. Doors will begin to open for you. Companies will begin to search you out. Your Gift will become a spotlight and bring attention to you. Notice I did not say your mouth will bring attention to you: But your Gift will. If you are actually doing the thing that God created you to do, you don’t have to say one word to anyone…They will automatically realize it.

Today I admonish you to hone in on your Gift to enhance it, and make it stand out. Don’t allow fear to dictate your Life, but give permission to your Gift to Make Room for You so that you can enjoy the Abundance that’s attached to it.

Your Gift has the power to Build anything you deem worthy to be erected in your life, even if that means that physical dream home.

So, allow your Gift to be the Foundation that you build your success upon. The materials that you use to build your life, should be top of the line quality; Never compromise Quality for Quantity.

Your Big Screen TV Could Be Costing You Big Bucks?

Your TV watching habits could be a clue as to how strong your Money Game is? Studies show that too much TV watching has a direct impact on your finances, and impedes Prosperity.

Wealthy people rarely watch TV, if at all, and if they do happen to fine themselves in front of one, it’s only about 30 to 60 minutes per day.

Non-Wealthy people sit in front of a TV for a whopping 300 – 500 minutes per day, and the numbers are higher if the person doesn’t have a Job.

So, could this be one of the problems as to why the disparity in wealth? You be the judge.

Wealthy people read more than they watch TV. Not just any book, but books that offer help/advice on improving one’s Life.

My advice to you is to Turn off the TV, and pick up a Book.

Answers: 

1.)  F

2.)  D

3.)  45 Minutes or Less

"Was That My Mother: She Died Almost 4 Years Ago"

My day started like any other typical Monday. After swiping  the snooze button on my smart phone a few times, I got up a little after 7 a.m. My first pickup is at 8:30 in the morning in Southfield, Michigan. After I picked up my first client, I dropped her off in Warren, which was about a thirty-minute drive.

With a little downtime, approximately 2 ½ hours before I had to pick up my second client in Waterford, I thought it would be a good idea to run the car through the car wash and vacuum it. After the car wash, I stopped at the gas station to fill up and get a newspaper for my clients. I also refilled the inside door handle with tootsie rolls, and made sure fresh water was in the cup holders. The car was now completely equipped to transport my senior clientele. 

By 11:30 a.m., I’d picked up two people I’d never met before. This particular run was a referral from a prior client; I was transporting her mother and her mother's friend. I was taking them to the medical district in Detroit for a follow-up doctor’s appointment. It took us about fifty minutes to make it downtown.

When we finally arrived, I pulled to the curb to assist my clients out of the car. After I put the car in park, I got out and opened the doors for my clients, pulling the walker out of the trunk.

As I unfolded the walker from its collapsed position, and placed it on the sidewalk so my client could brace herself, I noticed out of my peripheral vision another senior walking toward us. At the time, I didn’t really think too much about it. I continued assisting my two clients. I made sure they had my cell number to contact me when they were done.

The senior who was walking in our direction finally made her way to the place where we stood. She waited there patiently as I wrapped up my conversation with my clients. Then, it all happened.

"Excuse me, you do transportation, right?"

“Yes,” I said.

"Can you drive me to the parking structure? I can't make it way over there. I'm not going to make it."

I was more concerned about her heavy breathing. I wondered if she was in pain and if she was going to pass out.

“Sure, not a problem,” I said.

I helped her into the car—the one I was so meticulous about, as if I was chauffeuring royalty. I did this routine for years--thirty to be exact. However, this time felt different. I couldn't quite put my finger on it. I'm not sure if it was because this was the very first time, in my thirty years of being in the transportation industry, that I’d driven two seniors at the same time.

As I was driving into the parking structure, she asked me, "How much do I owe you?"

“Really, you think I’m going to charge you? You owe me absolutely nothing. It’s a pleasure to help you. I'm so glad that I was actually there at the right time.”

"God bless you, son. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Jesus!" is all I heard coming from the back seat of the car.

"We know each other well. He and I have a very good relationship,” she said.

“Great, make sure you send one up there for me.”
"No, I'm not. I am going to send seven up there for you.”

“Thank you so much!”

I pulled up to her car, got out and opened her door. As I was helping her out of the car, she said, "You are such a wonderful young man. (My mother said this to me on many occasions. My mother really loved me). Can you give me a hug?

“Sure I can. I would love to!”

This is when it hit me like a ton of bricks—the moment I embraced this senior. Her embrace felt like the ones my mother used to give me. I held her in my arms, as if she was my mother. Her embrace and gentle touch reminded me so much of my mom. This is when I totally lost it. All of my emotions rose up from the bottom of my soul. 

As I rested my forehead against her sweaty neck and aged face, tears formed in my eyes. I tried my best to hold them back. It wasn’t working; this was an awkward moment. I didn’t want this stranger to see me crying. Although she was a stranger, she felt more like the woman who birthed me 51 years ago. But, my mother has been dead for almost four years.

I said to myself, "Is this really happening? Why am I feeling like this?”

Her limp, how she labored as she walked, the way her clothes draped her body--all reminded me of my mother. Even her heavy breathing sparked a memory of "Miss Kat." That's how the kids on the block addressed her, back when kids respected their elders. As children, we were never allowed to call an adult by their first name only.

I don't really know if she knew I was crying because our eyes never made contact. As I helped her out of my car and into hers, my right hand automatically went to the small of her back to help support her weight, before she lowered her medium-built frame into the car. This is how I always helped my mother into my car. It became a natural reaction after doing it for so long.

Never making eye contact with me again, she said, "Thank you so much and God bless you."

“Thank you, and God bless you, too!” She adjusted herself behind the steering wheel.

My emotions were out of control. I couldn't get in my car fast enough. As soon as I closed my car door, I wept profusely for twenty minutes. Although this was a bittersweet moment for me, I will forever be appreciative of the event. I don't know if I should call it an event opposed to an encounter. Whatever it was, I will always ask the question, "Was that my mother?"

 

What’s The Difference between a Wealthy Person and a Person That Lives in Poverty?

There’s really not a big Difference per se…

How a person lives, or the desire to live and have a certain lifestyle, is totally up to that individual.
People that are wealthy made the choice to be wealthy, and the same is true for those that live in Poverty, it was their choice also. Now, I know I may have just hit a nerve, but hear me out.


You may be thinking that wealthy people had special privileges that allowed them to become wealthy. This view is not necessary true: Although, there are those that have come from very wealthy families, which has allowed wealth to be perpetuated in their family’s bloodline, however, it’s not indicative for accumulating wealth. You too have what it takes to become wealthy: That’s only if you want to. Remember, it’s your choice.


There is one common thread, among many, that you will discover when you take a look at wealthy people: Imagination is at the top of the list.


Every person that wants to be wealthy must first have an image (Imagination of the wealth already-in-hand) in their minds, first and foremost. This is the Secret.


Isn’t ironic that the Bible even talks about the power of the imagination, the images that we portray in our minds?

 Ponder on these references:


1. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion…Genesis 1:26

2. And the Lord said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. Genesis 11:6


3. God can do anything, you know-far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Ephesians 3:20 (Message Bible).


As you can see, it is vitally important to have the right image in your mind. If Poverty is the Image in your mind, that is the thing that your Imagination will attract to you, poverty. The opposite is true also, if the image that you have in your mind, is creating wealth, that is the thing that your imagination will attract.


You don’t really need anything else, other than your Imagination to create the Wealth that you want. This is why God had to bring to a screeching halt, the completion of the Tower of Babel. This group of people were doing the thing that they had imagined in their minds. God himself confirmed that they were getting ready to accomplish this outlandish feat.


There are so many people that had nothing, other than their imagination, that made something of themselves. Study the List Below:

a) Mike Ilitch

b) Michael Jackson

c) Ray Kroc

d) Henry Ford

e) Oprah Winfrey

f) Steve Harvey

g) Tyler Perry

h) “YOU”!!!


Yes, you made the list.

Q: How did you make the list? This is the question you have to ask yourself, “How do I make this list?”

A: I’m not sure what it’s going to take for you to insure that your name remains on the list…But there is one thing that I am certain of, and that is: You already have what it takes to become successful.

Create images in your mind that are conducive to what you want to accomplish.

Note: Where you are in your life right now, is what you have already imagined in your mind.

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he… Proverbs 23:7


Author D. Sandridge

My Tribute to President Barack Obama

Today represents a bitter sweet moment in America’s history, and the world at large. Today is the day that President Barack Hussein Obama, the 44^th  President of the United States of America, and the first African American, will be departing the office of the presidency. Eight years of legacy will be recorded in America’s archives, which will serve as a witness of such a historical event. 

First of all, Mr. President, I want to personally say thank you for a job “Well done”. You said it best, “Yes we can, yes we did”. It was a pleasure to have your representation in the White House. Your voice was an extension of all the voices of the American people.

Your message of hope and change helped mend the country back together. We will always remember not what you said, but all the good you did. As you leave the Oval Office, I pray that your spirit of compassion never leaves the building.

You not only made America proud, you made America a lot safer. Not only are we safer, we are stronger economically. At the time you first arrived to the White House, you not only came in with your own luggage and personal articles, you inherited America’s baggage of financial collapse, as well.

Your leadership and steadiness saved the American economy. Now that we are better, safer, and a lot stronger as a country, is a testament to the world that anything is possible. America will always be great if we continue to love all people, and most of all, if we continue to love God, and allow him back into our homes and schools.
 

I know that once you step out of the White House and onto that helicopter, to be transported to your prearranged destination, you will never forget about the American people. Not white America, or black America, but all Americans.

Thank you for being a role model for men all over the world. While we watched you from afar, your genuine example felt a lot closer. You not only raised the bar, you showed us how to raise a beautiful family. Thank you for leaving the White House clean and spotless for the incoming administration, but more so, free of scandal.

Thank you First Lady for allowing our children a place at the table. Our children not only got to come over to your home to dine, they were encouraged to eat healthier—and you led the way by example.

Your classiness is second to none. Your inner beauty has spoken loud and clear to all women of the free world. I pray that you and President Obama remain active in our communities across this great land.

However, we will do our part, too. We will insure that the legacy and examples you and the first family left will stay in place. Not only in our communities, but also in our hearts.

And when we are in the face of opposition, we will always remember: “When they go low, we will go high”.

God bless you, and may God bless America.

Author Demetrius Sandridge

Personal Challenge For 2017

Hello family…

First I want to welcome you and thank you for visiting.

The purpose of this blog is to inspire you to be all that you were created to be: Body, Soul, Mind, Spirit, and of course, “Breaking the Chains of Poverty.” I pray that you not only find this site informative, but fun and practical. Why live life if you can’t have fun doing it?

So, with that being said, our first challenge is Saving! That’s right…Saving Money. I need at least 100 people to take this challenge with me. Are you on board? Okay, let’s go!

There were thousands of people that took on the “Mannequin Challenge” which swept across the country. These individuals were willing to take a pause out of life for a moment. But, the reality is when the pause was over, they returned to their everyday lives–Business as Usual.

Unlike the mannequin challenge, this challenge will actually benefit you in a few ways:

1. Teaches Discipline
2. It will help you to recognize your spending habits
3. Builds confidence
4.  It creates a rainy day fund
5. Gives you a sense of pride
6. Shows you that anything is possible

So, are you Ready!!!  Okay.

Savings Goal:

Plan A:  $15,000

Plan B:  $12,000

Plan C:  $10,000

To achieve your goal  you first have to believe that you can do this. All things are possible to those that believe. I know this may seem to some to be an uphill battle, especially after coming out of the holidays…but we can do this.

Look at it from this perspective. Ask yourself, “What can I do that will help me to realize my goal? After you figure that out, then do it.”

If your goal is plan A, that means you will have to save $41.67 per day for 360 days.

If your goal is Plan B, that means you will have to save $33.34 per day for 360 days.

If your goal is Plan C, that means you will have to save $27.78 per day for 360 days.

I know that there are 365 days in a year. But like I said earlier, this should be fun and practical. The extra 5 days off will allow you to enjoy the holidays with family and friends: Thanks Giving, Christmas, and New Years.

Begin to find ways to cut back on your spending. Maybe you don’t have to get Tim Horton’s coffee and that chocolate donut. What if you sold a product online, that would help you generate some cash flow? Perhaps you could pack a lunch instead of eating out? What if you let your cable network provider go for just one year, and utilize the internet instead?

I’m not going to tell you what to do, or what to cut back on. What works for me may not work for you. Just be creative, and make it FUN. And most of all Enjoy and Embrace the Journey… And at the end of the year you would have accomplish your GOAL….

Leave me a message about your journey, and some of the creative ways that you implemented to accomplish your goal….I would love to share your Story!!!

Become a “Chain Breaker in 2017”

Have a Blessed Day…And a Prosperous New Year

Demetrius Sandridge

Author

12 Steps to Becoming A Millionaire

Step #3—

 

Take a DNA Test

Have you ever watched the Maury Povich Show, which is a show that is known for its DNA testing of males, to determine if they were actually the person that fathered the child, which the mother allegedly claimed they were?

Sometimes these claims were true. However, there were times when the mother’s claim backfired. The man that she accused of being the father, the DNA test determined that he was not the person that fathered the child. This discovery would bring out emotions from both ends of the spectrum: Extreme excitement to utterly embarrassment.

Have you had a DNA test lately? Do you know if you are the father? Do you know if it’s actually yours?

No, I’m not talking about your biological children, I’m talking about the person you are. Do you really know who you are? Do you know if your passions are genuinely yours, or has someone else influenced them?

When I mention your DNA, I am talking about your: Distinctive Natural Ability. This is the thing that sets you apart from the masses. Each of us has been given special gifts, talents, and abilities. I believe these gifts are given to us so that we can improve not just ourselves, but also the world. We have been designed to dominate the earth. Not just the earth, but dominate every situation we face, no matter what it is.

Every millionaire had to take a DNA test. And the reason is they needed to know who they really were, and what their assignment for life was. Otherwise, they would have gone through life wondering, not achieving anything.

When you are crystal clear on who you are, and what you are supposed to do in the world, you will make a great impact on planet earth.

Understanding your DNA (Distinctive Natural Ability) will help you avoid wasting valuable time and unnecessary energy.

Listen how Bishop T. D. Jakes says it in his book, Reposition Yourself; Living Life Without Limits:

“However, I should warn you that finding your gift is more than getting a degree. While this varies from field to field, many experts estimate that over 50 percent of people end up working in areas other than the one for which they have earned a degree…We end up completing a degree only to find out that we do not like actually working in the area that we enjoyed studying…Part of your education—and by this I mean truly learning from your past mistakes—requires assessing correctly what you have in your personality that can empower your arsenal of weaponry. If you have the tools in your heart that match the information you have in your head, then you can begin to find the most powerful areas for their convergence. The combination of a focused mind and an impassioned heart can be so helpful in determining what we are really meant to do with our lives.” 

As an aspiring millionaire, taking a DNA test is paramount. Take time to understand you and what makes you click: Don’t just do something because your best friend is doing it. Don’t just do something to make money, do it because that is your assignment, and the money, and everything else will come. Never go into business to make money, go into business to make a difference, and the money will come.

 

Are you really the father of that dream, desire, or goal that you are seeking, or are they because of someone else? Be clear about what you seek for out of life: Make it your baby.

So, go ahead and spread your DNA across this planet. Allow it to touch every corner of the world. And the next time you are asked, “Are you the Father”, you can proudly say with enthusiasm, “I am the Father, I take full responsibility and ownership of the thing I have created with my Distinctive Natural Ability.

How do we implement Step #3—

1.    First, take look at your Life…Ask yourself:

        A. What comes Natural for me?

          B.  What am I good at doing?

          C.  What kind of compliments do I get from others?

           D.  Do I actually Like what I am good at doing?

2.    Secondly, take a look at your life’s Challenges…Ask yourself:

           A.  Why am I having trouble with this part or that part of my life?

           B.  What Lesson do I need to learn from this Challenge?

           C.  How can what I am going through help someone else?

           D.  What business or program can I start based on the challenges that I encounter?

3.    Finally, look at both list and see if you can somehow mesh the two categories. Ask yourself:

           A.  How can I impact the world with what I like to do, but have trouble doing it because of the challenges I am facing.

           B.  What solutions can I offer someone that is faced with the same dilemma?

           C.  What does the world need that I can offer because of the experiences that life has given me?

Here is another inspiring video to show you that your DNA is special and that it needs to be sprinkled throughout the world. To view the video, please click on the link below.

Click Here: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2729151675765

Thanks, and enjoy.

Your Coach,

Demetrius Sandridge



12 Steps to Becoming A Millionaire

Step #2—

 

Take Personal Responsibility

Now that you have made the decision to become Wealthy, it is time to take personal responsibility. First, you must take a cold hard look at yourself.

This is the time that you will take to evaluate your life, and the decisions that you have made. The question that needs to be answered is: Why?

The “Why” question is the most powerful question of all, because it demands more answers. The “Why” question forces one to get to the core of the matter and beyond. The best example I can use to validate this view is the innocent exchange between a parent and toddler.

The parent tells the toddler that she can’t do a certain thing, and the first thing that comes out of the toddler’s mouth is, “Why”? And then the parent proceeds to give a surface answer as to why she said what she said. And for all you parents out there know the next thing that transpires, the toddler says, “But why?” And this continues for a short time until the parent finally gives in and say, “Because I told you so.”

See, the “Why” question will either make you frustrated or cause you to dig a little deeper into the matter. And the latter is what I want for you—to dig a little deeper, to find valid answers as to why you are where you are.

I had to ask myself the “Why” question several times. After I came to grips with the answers, I had to move on. I could no longer allow my father’s murder to remain an excuse for not achieving my goals and dreams. I could no longer allow my failed marriages to be my excuse for not loving again. I could no longer allow my financial woes to hinder my desire to be financially liberated. I had to get on with life.

I am not telling you to be insensitive to situations that occur in your life. All I am saying is deal with those matters properly, and move on. Stop blaming others for where you are in your life.

We will all lose something at some point in this life: From Loved ones to things. Remember, "Life Happens." Things are constantly changing everyday.

The “Why” question will always lead you to the right answer. And the answer is almost always: Personal Responsibility.

However, the “Why” question is powerful but yet time consuming. Yes, you can answer all of the “Why” questions in your life until the cows come home, but if you never stop and take personal responsibility, you will be still asking “Why”.

Asking yourself the “Why” questions is just a way to get the conversation started in you head. Once that conversation gets started, and you get some clarity as to why certain things have happened in your life, there has to be a time when it stops. Once you come to grips with the answers to your “Why” questions, at some point you must move on. You must lay the entire “Why” answers to rest.

It is now time to forgive yourself and others for some of the answers to your “Why” questions. I know you want to point the finger at everybody but yourself. It’s natural for us to want to do that. However, it’s not beneficial.

We must take full responsibility for our lives. If your quest is to experience financial freedom, then you must take full responsibility to ensuring that that takes place.

No more excuses. No more pointing the finger and blaming others. No more wining. No more complaining. It’s time to make it happen. The brightness of your future depends on you, and how bright you want to make it.

Here is another question for you. What is the difference between a Wealthy person and a Poor person? Answer: One takes Responsibility and the other one does not. Which person are you?

How do we implement Step #2?

                             Action Steps:

• Find someone that you can talk to to help you get over the thing that's bothering you (Your Pastor, friend, family member, mentor, Life Coach, etc.). Let go of the Past.

• Forgive not only others, but forgive yourself also, because nobody is perfect.

• Be optimistic in the mist of adversity.

• Make the decision to be Great! Find someone that will hold you responsible for staying on track.

Thanks, Your Coach

Demetrius Sandridge

12 Steps to Becoming A MILLIONAIRE

The TV series, "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" has been both intriguing and entertaining at the same time. We watched the show enthusiastically, and coached the contestants from our "Lazy Boy" chair, shouting out answers at the TV, as if the contestants could hear us.

What's even more interesting is we would get mad if the contestant's "Final" answer was wrong. I don't have a problem with getting mad, however, that resentment should not be directed to the contestant, but toward the person sitting in the "Lazy Boy" chair.

Yes, get mad enough about why you are still in the "Lazy Boy" chair and not participating as a contestant. I know its just a TV show, but, the principle is still the same.

There is a very familiar passage in scripture that talks about three individuals that were given an opportunity to increase their master's net worth. Two of the three did very well: They doubled their initial investment. However, the third individual did absolutely nothing. He was afraid that he would lose, so he played it safe. And because of that, his master called him wicked and lazy, and took back what he had given him and gave it to the one who had done the best, in terms of the increase that was made from the initial investment.

Doing nothing about your financial destiny is not the right choice!

For the next twelve weeks we will embark upon the subject of "Becoming a Millionaire". Our objective is to help you achieve Millionaire Status. We want to help you eliminate all of the "Fear." Will you take this journey with us, or are you just going to remain sitting in your "Lazy Boy" chair?


STEP # 1- Decide to become a Millionaire

Becoming a Millionaire is a Choice! I know this sounds too simple, but the truth is people that wanted to reach Millionaire Status made a decision to become wealthy, first.

The contestants on, "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" are ordinary people with ordinary lives. The only difference is they decided that they would do something, anything to propel themselves into Millionaire Status. Even if that meant looking silly in front of millions of TV viewers.

And that is what most people are: Viewers. They just sit back and watch others achieve their dreams and accomplish their goals.

Wanting to be Wealthy and deciding to become wealthy is entirely two different things. Make the decision to do something about your financial future. This is the very first step to "Becoming a Millionaire."

"Be a Doer, not a Viewer"

Everything that we do in life starts with the first step: Doing it!

If you make this first step the rest will come. Life will begin to pull you in the right direction. Just make up in your mind that you want to do it, no matter what it is.

Here is a video that I hope will inspire you to achieve whatever it is that you want to accomplish. Click on the Link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=BNA9PkcQpwA

Your comments are welcomed...We would Love to hear from you!!!

Thanks, and Enjoy

Your Coach,









Demetrius Sandridge

How do you define Poverty?

How do you view poverty? Do you feel that it’s something that can’t be avoided because your parents and perhaps their parents grew up poor? Or maybe you read the passage of scripture when Jesus said, “For the poor always ye have with you…” which would seem to suggest and perhaps validate your belief that it’s okay to live in poverty? But, notice what the great master teacher said: The poor will always be with you. Take note that He did not include the disciples, neither himself, in the class with the poor.

In other words, there will always be people that will not accept the fact that they have been created for greatness: That they were never to experience poverty. This is another one of those subtle truths that, if not embraced correctly, will result in a life full of poverty.

Maybe your definition of poverty means being without, or not being able to shop for the up-to-date fashions, the latest pair of Air Jordan’s, jewelry or the latest gadget every week, just to try to impress someone?  Or perhaps your definition means not being able to ride down the infamous street of Detroit (The “Motor City”), Seven Mile, in your custom painted—Candy Apple Red, 1970 Chevy Impala, sitting on 22” Dayton wheels, with 18” woofers in the trunk, or, not being able to duplicate what the Joneses may be doing across the street from you?

The questions above are rhetorical, which are meant to cause you to stop and think. Everyone has his or her own point of view of poverty, and of prosperity for that matter.  However, this different view doesn’t make any one answer right, wrong or indifferent—it’s all based on ones’ own perception and belief system. As he thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). Whatever your definition is becomes only your reality—even if what you believe isn’t accurate at all. Shakespeare said it best: “There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.”

Look at the Bill Gates’, the Tiger Woods’, the Oprah Winfreys’, and the Warren Buffets’ of the world today. These individuals did nothing special to achieve the level of success that has made them world icons. They just tapped into their God-given talent—the thing they showed up in life with—the gift that God placed only inside of them. I’m not suggesting that they had it easy, or that they did not have to work hard. Yes! They did have to work hard to achieve their goals. But, when you are doing something that you love and were created for, it’s work that you really enjoy doing.

You have a gift, too. What is it? What’s unique about you that you have not sought out? What is that one thing that makes only you standout? When you figure it out—let the world know.

That one thing is what your Creator placed inside of you to make a difference in the world: To break the chains of poverty in your Life! You are the only person that possesses it. If you don’t use it, we all suffer a great disservice, caused by your failure—of not stepping into your greatness.

Poverty is neither your Friend…nor a companion! Poverty is what it is: An enemy that keeps you from enjoying the life that God Created for you.

Thanks,

Your Coach

Demetrius

www.dsandridge.com

ds@dsandridge.com