A Mother's Perspective...Goodbye

by Cleora Williams


It was a Saturday afternoon about five years ago when Bernadine (GT’s founder) stopped by for a visit that actually lasted a few hours. While there she referred to an article in her latest issue of girltalk and asked, how I would feel if dropped my daughter off to an afternoon class and she went off with her boyfriend.

Mortified I replied “Mad” and I went off on quite a tangent as I expressed many emotions: Anger, disappointment, grief and disbelief. Maybe it’s because my daughter was only twelve at the time I could not fathom something like that. She (my daughter) spoke up and said “but Mummy I ain’t do nothing, why you rowing me?” Ms. Mcintosh, of course was quite tickled by my tirade and asked me write what I had just said. And so began my sojourn with girltalk, writing the column A Mother’s Perspective…

Each issue of girltalk that I contributed to, I tried to write an article that I believe could make a difference. At times I scolded, or gave advice and tried to get young ladies to think of relevant issues. But most of all I tried to remind young ladies of how precious they are to God.

And so as the final curtain falls for girltalk (for a while at least), I want to share some advice with you that I shared with Ms. Bernadine McIntosh when she graduated from high school.

“I know you thought it was not ever going to end, but it did. I have news for you young ladies, you have only just begun. Remember to always keep your eyes on God and he will lead you safely through everything. Stay sweet and always stay with God, he won’t leave you or forsake you, he’ll always be there no matter what time it is or what your problem is.

And so with this final issue of girltalk I want to express my sincere gratitude to Bernie (my cousin) for allowing me to express myself via her magazine. And to my girltalk audience I hope that I have deposited something positive into your life through at least one issue of girltalk.

Remember ladies you are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, you are precious to him; your price is far above rubies and you CANNOT be bought. I love you, Jesus loves you, do well be blessed.

Congratulations Lachanté on being one of the spotlight teens for this issue, and your graduation from Jack Hayward School; you have come a long was baby.

Kudos!!! Jack Hayward’s class of 2T10: Lachanté, Bria Comfy, Twinkie, April, Joineé and all the beautiful, well mannered ladies from Jack Hayward. Good luck to all the young ladies who are leaving high schools on the island.

What's on your voicemail?

By Wendyann Rolle, class of '07

Ring Ring Ring!!!!!!!!!

“Girl, answer your phone it’s ringing.”
“Not your cell phone I mean your spiritual phone. God is calling you! Are you available or will your voicemail pick up?”

"Hey God it’s me, I am busy now living my life and having fun, please leave a message after the beep and when I find some time I will get back to you.”

Believe it or not, this is what we tell God every time we ignore His call. I should know, that used to be the message on my phone.

Sometimes we get caught up in our own affairs and leave God totally out of the equation. Then when we have a problem we expect him to be there right away. We treat him like a spare tire never remembering him until we need Him. However, the Bible says, But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you Matthew 6:33

So, as a young lady I have answered God's call and I try to always seek his kingdom first. I must say it wasn't easy I had to give up a few friends and relationships I thought I couldn’t live without. I didn’t do it all at once but gradually with God's help I gave up those things that were hindering me from achieving my full potential in God. In other words, I no longer have a “spiritual voice mail.” When God calls He doesn’t have to ring twice I pick up immediately with a cheerful, “Here I am Lord, I’m available use me.”

So to you that have heard the call I say answer it. God has a plan for your life and you must answer the call in order to fulfill his purpose and reach your destiny. There will be some rough spots along the way but God will turn all things meant for bad around for your good.

GT June 2010

Thoughts on being a girl

What do you love most about being a "girl"?

by Davina, Jess, Ruth, & Sabrena

What do we love about being girls? Hmm... let’s see…

1. Pink

2. Makeup

3. GIRL TALK!

4. No goatee

5. Not having smelly feet.

6. No extra unwanted hair.

7. We get nicer clothes

8. Chocolate solves almost all of our problems.

9. We’re allowed to be crabby at least once a month

10. We can get out of gym when we have cramps really bad.

11. Watching “Chick Flicks” with our closest friends.

12. We can hug all of our friends, talk about clothes and shop as much as we want without guys thinking it’s unusual.

13. If guys cry they get called a big girl’s blouse. If we cry we get hugs! (Ruth’s from England in case you never heard that term)

Girl Talk Magazine Dec 04/Feb 05

(I was looking through an old issue of Girl Talk when I came across this. )

The Baby Can Wait

From a Mother’s Perspective
By Cleora Williams


September 2009 marks the beginning of the final year of high school for my eldest daughter ….Wow!!! I can remember quite vividly dressing her in a navy blue jumper and a checker blue blouse for her first day at kindergarten, and now in a few months she will be leaving the hallowed halls of her high school. I am so excited and I am looking forward with great anticipation to her graduation in June 2010. Yeah 2T10!!!

Despite my excitement, as a mother I do have a level of fear or anxiety. I hope that my daughter and all young ladies will do right by themselves and their parents and not yield to peer pressure by engaging in pre-marital sex. I am greatly troubled by the number of teenage pregnancies. When I see or hear about a young lady who gets pregnant I want to shout “WHAT IS THE RUSH? THE BABY CAN WAIT”

I am by no means saying that having a baby signifies the end of a young lady’s life but, it certainly makes goals and aspirations much more difficult to achieve. Think of the financial burden it places on your parents, and basically the overall disappointment because they wanted so much more for you. That cute little giggly baby, doesn’t always giggle and coo. In fact it totally changes your life around and demands your full attention. Young ladies please think of the impact it will have on your young life. Having a child is a tremendous responsibility.

It is my wish, no my plea from a mother’s heart to young ladies everywhere, especially girltalk readers to WAIT PLEASE…THE BABY CAN WAIT. Study hard make yourselves proud; make us (your parents) proud. You have so much potential, so much to achieve, so much to enjoy. Do well in all that you do, keep your heads held high. Believe me when the time is right you will have and greatly enjoy children. There is a time and a place for babies and it is definitely not your teenage years.

Remember ladies you are fearfully and wonderfully made by God and you are priceless. Have a wonderful school year. God bless you.

The 411 on Good Nutrition

By Camelta Barnes
Public Health Nutritionist.

Food is important, everybody needs food to live. If you are hungry, then you should eat. As long as you satisfy your hunger, it really does not matter what kind of food you give your body….right? Remember the old saying, “A belly full is a belly full”.

Think about it, does it really not matter the quality of food you give your body? Why does your body need food? Is it just to fill your stomach? A belly full of unhealthy foods may satisfy your hunger but not your nutritional needs. Food is the most basic human need, but this fact does not stop here. It must be food that provides “good nutrition".

Why should you be concern about good nutrition? Good nutrition allows you to have all the energy you need to do all the things you enjoy doing. Good nutrition gives you the nice smooth skin everybody wants to have. What about the lustrous shiny bouncy hair that most girls covet, well good nutrition can give that to you as well. You want to be included among the students that help to raise the national grade point average from a D to an A? Well once again, give good nutrition a try.

Go here for tips that will help you to get started in practicing “good nutrition”.

Tips for Good Nutrition

By Camelta Barnes

Make Smart choices.
• When using Ramen Noodles, do not use the season packet.
• When you are thirsty, pick water instead of sweet juice or drinks.
• Use 1 or 2 percent milk instead of cream or sweet milk for your cereal.
• Choose bake or grilled foods more often than you do fried foods.
• Get ketchup or mustard for your fries, not liquid cheese or mayonnaise.
•
Enjoy some foods in moderation.• Choose chips or fries no more than once a week.
• Limit starchy foods to 2 servings at lunch time. (1 serving equals 1 slice of bread; ½ bun, 1 small dinner roll, 1 pot spoon or ½ cup rice).
• Choose candy and chocolates no more than once a week but not on the same day as the chips or fries.

Balance your diet.• Add tomato and lettuce to your sandwiches.
• Add vegetables to your Ramen Noodles.
• Include a side of a small salad, a serving of veggies or piece of fruit.
•
Think simple.
• A plain burger (no cheese) is a better choice than processed or breaded foods such as hot dog, chicken nuggets or pizza.

What's Wrong with a Little Conversation?

A Mother's Perspective
by Cleora Williams


Growing up in the ‘70’s we often heard the phrase “children should be seen not heard.” I was not allowed to sit in the company of adults or join in their conversations whenever we had guests. Further, I was not allowed to speak my mind as this was considered being rude. As an adult I can appreciate some of what I was taught but I believe that children should be allowed to be a little more vocal.

Personally, I encourage my children to talk to me and to share their feelings. This at times is quite challenging, while children share to certain degree they seem to always hold a little back, I often wonder if it’s because they (children) enjoy knowing things their parents do not.

I am however, very concerned about children keeping certain secrets from their parents. I am speaking in particular about when a child or teenager is being violated, that is, they are being spoken to or being touched in a manner that is inappropriate and make them feel uncomfortable.

My daughters THIS IS NOT THE TIME TO KEEP A SECRET! No matter how embarrassed or ashamed you may be, remember you did nothing wrong, it is not your fault. Tell someone; your pastor, a teacher or a trusted adult. But I’m sure I speak for all concerned parents when I say, tell us!

My daughters we need you to talk to us, as mothers (parents) we want to protect you. We will not see it as you doing something wrong: if you don’t tell us how will we know? Even if you have been threatened or bribed, you can trust us. No mother wants to know that her beautiful teenage daughter has been violated. I’m sure it must leave a mother feeling angry, frustrated and helpless.

As mothers we are concerned about you and want the best for you. You are a precious gift from God, so please talk to us about whatever is on your mind no matter how small and insignificant it may seem or how huge it may be. Don’t carry the load alone, we love you dearly and want to know what’s going on with you.

As usual ladies I conclude by reminding you that God’s word says that you are priceless and cannot be bought.

Ten Things...From the Heart of God

By Cleora Williams


In a previous article I wrote ten things from a mother’s heart. However in this article I want to highlight a few things from the heart of God, the ultimate parent.

God wants you to be successful in every area of your life. He thinks that you are extraordinarily special. The good thing about it is He did not leave you guessing how to live a successful life. It’s in His word. I’d love to share a few verses to show you young ladies just how special you are to God.

How special are you to God?

1. Jeremiah 1:5 – Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart. (NIV)

2. 1 Peter 2:9 – You are a chosen people a royal priesthood, a holy nation and you belong to God. (NIV)

Is God concerned about your future?

3. Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (NIV)

4. III John 2 – Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. (NKJV)

5. Proverbs 16:3 – Commit to the Lord whatever you do and your plan will succeed. (NIV)

Nowadays with so much conflict issues among our youth, God offers a way out:

6. Proverbs 15: 1 – A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (NIV)

7. Proverbs 4: 1- Listen my sons\daughters to a fathers\mothers instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.

Here are reasons why you should acknowledge God.

8. Ecclesiastes 12:1 - Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not (KJV)

9. Proverbs 3:5 -6- Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path. (KJV)

10. Matthew 6:33 – But seek first His kingdom and his righteousness, and all things will be given to you. (NIV)

As always young lady, remember that you are a priceless gem wonderfully made by God.

What are you grateful for?

Christmas Traditions... A Mother's Perspective
By Cleora Williams

What are you grateful for? This is a question I have asked my family, each Christmas morning, for the past eleven years before any gifts are opened. Initially I was met with resistance as each child was only interested in opening whatever presents bore their names under the tree. This however, is now a part of our family tradition. When we rise on Christmas morning instead of rushing to the Christmas tree and tearing into thepresents, we read the Christmas story, say what we are grateful for, pray and finally, exchange gifts.

My reason for doing the above ritual was and still is to instill in my children a sense of gratitude and thankfulness. Firstly, to God {who sent his son Jesus into the world}, secondly to family and friends and finally to include all others who have touched their lives positively.

We should be grateful each day, but this time of year more emphasis seems to be placed on being thankful, hence celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas and the advent of a new year. Further because this time of year is so commercialized we need to remember that Jesus is the reason for the season and give thanks.

And so to all girltalk readers I ask you to reflect during this season as I ask you the question, “What are you grateful for?” There is a song that goes “count your blessings, name them one by one and it will surprise you what God has done”.

In my conclusion, I extend to each of you my girltalk readers warmest wishes for a blessed, safe and happy Christmas as we look for a beautiful year 2009.

Ladies always give thanks with a grateful heart. Remember your creator who has made you priceless and in his own image. You are wonderfully made: mind, body and spirit.

Why I don't have a boyfriend right now...

A teen’s point of view
By Twaniqua Cooper



“Why hasn’t he called me yet?” “What’s he doing?” “I wonder if he’s home.” “He’s not home, who is he with?”


Hey ladies, do any of these questions sound familiar to you? I bet they do. I remember trying to study for an exam and all I could think was, “why hasn’t this boy call me yet?” I could not stay focused enough to study.


We often say, “why don’t our parents allow us to live our lives and have our fun while we’re still young?” However, the truth is they are really doing the best thing for us by trying to keep us away from boyfriends while we are in school.


I did not realize how important it was to not focus on boyfriends until my first semester of college. While I was in high school, I realized that my grades were dropping because I put so much time into my boyfriend and hardly paid attention to my school work. I didn’t care of course, because I really liked the person. However, as I transitioned from a high school student to a college student it became more difficult for me. We were now “out of school” so he felt we should have been able to spend more time together. During the summer I found it ok, but when I started my college classes I realized hey, this is too much for me.


The level of work had increased and I now needed that hour I spent talking on the phone to study or do homework. This was hard for my boyfriend to understand because at the time he was not in school. We had to break up so I would be able to manage. When I was in high school I didn’t care how my grades dropped because I knew I would graduate either way, but attending college is a different story. When I don’t pass a class it wastes money and prolongs my stay at College of the Bahamas, and I certainly don’t want that.


I have not been in a relationship since I ended the one in my first semester of college. Right now, I don’t see a boyfriend in my near future. I am not saying that I would graduate and still do not have a boyfriend, because I cannot be sure of that, but I know it won’t be anytime soon. When someone asks me to get in a relationship, I let them know I am doing them a favor by not getting involved with them.


My mother sometimes teases me and asks me when she’s going to meet my boyfriend. She knows that I will tell her I don’t want a boyfriend right now so she’ll just smile. I know in her mind she says “wow after all these years she finally gets it”.


Ladies, my advice to you would be to put away the boyfriend for right now. Know that the boys will always be there. They cannot live without us. Therefore, they will keep coming our way. I say put boys on hold and give God a chance to work in your life the way he wants to. Remember that your success tomorrow depends on the right decisions today.

Prayer for My Guardian Angel

By LaChante Williams

I pray you see
Where I have not seen
I pray you straighten me
When I start to lean

I pray unconditional love
Into your ever-loving heart
I pray that when you are done with me
I'll be your priceless work of art.

My guardian angel sent to guard and protect
I pray that your job you will never neglect
I also pray blessings on you
Anointed by God and anointed brand new
I pray your beauty never to fade
Or your soul for money you never will trade

The love from my angel I cannot measure
The time spent together I'll forever treasure
I know there is a special place in heaven for you
And I pray that one day I'll shine just like you

(Dedicated to ALL my guardian angels...
especially my mummy and Auntie Bernie)

Back to School

A Mother's Advice
By Cleora Williams

As a mother of two daughters (one a teenager), I try to give what I feel is practical advice. I am always mindful of the fact that parents, (mothers) are not always right (and all teenage girls say…..) and so every now and then I would welcome some response from readers who disagree or even those who agree with me. It would be all worth it to know that even the smallest bit of advice in the articles is making a difference. So ladies please let me hear from you.

With that said, once again a new school year has begun. As you begin the new school year, I cannot emphasize enough the need to study. I’m certain that each young lady is in a different place academically, so I encourage each of you to make every effort to maintain or improve your academic standard. Remember each new school year takes you closer to your ultimate career goal. So remember ladies. STUDY, STUDY, STUDY

Secondly, as you begin your new school year, do not focus solely on your outward appearance (I must say that you look great), but be mindful ladies that your inside should be as gorgeous as your outside. By this I mean that you should have a good attitude towards your school work, your classmates and of course your teachers. Remember the beauty within.

Finally, as a parent I want you to respect and care for your environment. I heard an education official asking parents to tell their children about respecting school property, as each year there were such costly repairs. So to reiterate, I say to you ladies remember that you spend six hours a day, five days a week in school so I am certain you want you surroundings to be as clean and comfortable as possible. How about this, you be that good example by keeping your surroundings clean. Further, I would say ladies respect yourselves, your fellow classmates, your teachers and of course your environment.

As always young ladies, I remind you of your worth. God’s word in Ephesians 2:10 states – “for we are His (Gods) workmanship, created in Christ Jesus. And then in Psalm 139:14 it says I will praise thee: for I am wonderfully made. Remember ladies you are priceless originals who cannot be purchased.

God bless you all.

Girl Talk Magazine
Sept/Nov '08

Why Not Teaching?

By Mrs. Veronica Ferguson

What is God’s purpose for your life and how will you fulfill his will in your chosen career ? What do you want to be in life? As I left high school I had many and more of these questions buzzing around in my head. As you leave High School think about what you love to do most. What is it that you see you self doing ten years from now and enjoying it while making living from it.

I have been a teacher for almost twenty years and I am still passionate about what I do. I make a difference in the lives of children and that influence will last for a life time. Teachers are special people whom God, our master teacher in his divine wisdom has ordained as heritage keepers in a world where children are our most precious resources. Teachers are God’s special assistants who go about daily assisting with the planting of dreams in the minds of young people everywhere. This job demands only the best of the society.

Teachers are educational evangelists. Where would you be without the vision and leadership of a good teacher? Great Teachers make a difference in the lives of children. Teachers are powerful advocates and models of excellence, as they believe that all children can learn and never give up on their students.

As we move into a more global market economy, more opportunities are created for stable teaching positions. However, this new call for teachers demands those who are passionate about children and learning. Those special agents who want to be extravagant about changing lives, eliminating ignorance and creating responsible leaders.

Finally, ask yourself three simple questions as you consider teaching:
Am I willing to commit to life long learning, growth and discipline?
Am I enthusiastic about shaping and molding the characters of young people?
Am I willing to be a part of a movement that does not have all the answers but is looking for dreamers and visionaries to carry out its mission?

Why do I teach? I teach because I love children. I teach because my encounters in the lives of my students are priceless. I teach because it gives wings to my faith in God. I teach to show children that there is still love in the world despite their experiences. I teach because teaching is the job that demands the most courage. Look deep within yourself. Do you have that courage?

Mrs. Veronica Ferguson
Professor, College of the Bahamas,
School of Education, Northern Campus

GT Jun/Aug '08

Ten Things... From a Mother's Heart

By Cleora Williams
For this issue of Girl Talk I thought I’d do something a little different so instead of writing an article from a Mothers perspective I compiled a list of ten (10) things I want my daughters to know about me, about our relationship.

Although our individual list may vary I am certain that most mothers would agree with the items I’ve listed.

(1) Trust us (we will not knowingly mislead you)

(2) We want the best for you in every area of your life.

(3) We love you unconditionally (Only God himself loves you more than we do)

(4) We want you above all things, to have a relationship with Jesus Christ.

(5) We have high standards set for you. We know that you're not perfect, but we believe in you.

(6) Value yourself. (your mind, your body, your soul, you are priceless you cannot be purchased)

(7) Enjoy the stage in life you are at, don’t be too anxious to get to the next level it will come before you know it.

(8) You do not have to give in to peer-pressure or follow the crowd, be the unique person that we know you are.

(9) Be proud of who you are. Take pride in all that concerns you (not only dressing up)

(10) We (Mothers) are not the enemy; we are your biggest supporters. Talk to us, we want to hear what you have to say

GT Jun/Aug '08

Waiting for True Love

by Kristin Yarbrough

His hands moved up her back; his lips caressed her neck. True love waits. This isn't love, Alex thought, but it feels good. Yeah, true love waits, but waits for how long? How much? As long as she didn't go all the way, right? She broke away from him and glanced at her ring and whispered the inscription, "True love waits." I wonder if my true love is waiting for me...

Through various slogans and discussions, the female population has been taught to wait for true love. But wait for what? Wait to date? For a kiss? For sex? Well, I offer you this insight, as a college girl who has had her heart broken many a time and is currently waiting for true love.

Let's start with something "simple": dating. Personally, I think, girls shouldn't start dating until they're emotionally ready, which varies with the individual. Society creates too much hype about the importance of having a boyfriend. I swear we've got it all wrong. In junior high, a couple didn't actually go anywhere, but we called it "going out". In high school, two people like each other and then are considered an "item" and dating. But does anyone really date anymore? If you were to time warp to our parents generation, you'd find that dating meant taking more than one person out and then "go steady" with someone that you liked more than the restof the people you've dated. Today it seems like we have it backwards. Most of the people I've observed become a couple before actually dating. Sadly, this leaves young women lost in the world of men that actually want to date (more than one person at a time) without having a serious relationship.

My suggestion is this: get to know yourself first. You can't ever dump yourself! You'll always be there! Once you've taken care of yourself, get to know the people you're interested in. From there, take it easy. Be open with the person of your attention and be honest about your dating views.

Next, if you date, set boundaries. Here's one way to set boundaries (Read before actually trying it!) Close your eyes and picture the man you want to spend the rest of your life with. Don't give him a name or a face, just imagine his shadows. Imagine that it's your wedding night. He turns to you and smiles. He leans in close and whispers ever so gently, "Honey, after knowing you for ______ years, I've finally fallen in love with you and have promised to share the rest of my life with you. I've waited for you since I can remember. The only thing I've ever done is...." Is? I don't want an is! I want it to stop at "remember". Okay, highly unlikely, but hey, that's my fantasy! Here's your job: take what you filled in at the end. If you feel truly comfortable knowing that your potential mate has been that intimate with someone else, rather than waiting for you, then that is where your
boundary line lies. Just remember, you may be okay with his experience, but he may not be comfortable with yours.

Romance and love is special--make it special. Why waste all those glances, poems, smiles, and kisses on just anybody? Waiting for someone special, especially for true love, shows that you value the next person you date so much that you considered your relationship before you even met. What if a guy did that for you? Wouldn't that just make you get that "aw-gee" look on your face? So from me to you, dear reader, please remember, "True love waits… for marriage"; we're all worth waiting for!



This article appeared in the Dec '01/Feb 02 issue of Girl Talk. It was submitted by a college student that I've never met. This became one of my favorite articles because of the great advice she offered to other young ladies.

Peace be to these streets in Jesus’ name.

BY: SIADRA STRACHAN

A troubled mind; a broken heart,
A hopeless end; a rocky start,
A cry for help; a cry for hope;
A cry for strength for him to cope.

But no one sees him and no one hears,
No one will help him and no one cares
His searching soul Satan will attack
His troubled mind Satan will snatch.

His idle hands Satan will use
To render pain and much abuse
His broken heart turns into stone
And angry teen stands all alone

He is violent, he is sad
He is lost, he is mad.

This drifting life gets in a fight
It’s all he knows, he thinks its right
A blade is drawn, a gun is too,
The blade stabs the gun shoots

A body drops, a voice still cries
Someone help me! Don’t let me die!

But now he’s gone and it’s too late
That violent road shouldn’t have been his fate
No one would hear him and no one cared
And when he cried we stood right there.

We see the tears, we hear the voice,
Christian people we have a choice
To stand up tall to stand up proud
To scream it out, to say it loud
That there’s a way, that is THE WAY
Let there be peace on these streets today!

We have a light that we must share
A message of peace we must declare

Peace be to our streets don’t let Satan use another life,
Claim it, proclaim it!

Peace!!!!
In the name of Jesus Christ.

GT March/May 08

My Embarrassing Moment

From a mother’s perspective


I had what I considered an embarrassing experience one Saturday. It was at a funeral service for a colleague of mine who had been murdered. During the pre-service the podium was opened to anyone who wanted to offer words of condolences to the family.

As I sat in my seat I went over mentally what I wanted to say. So confidently I rose from my seat without a prepared text and proceeded to podium. Once at the podium I opened my mouth to speak and I became overwhelmed, not only by grief but by all those eyes staring back me and believe it or not every thought and the beautiful tribute I had mentally prepared went clear out of my mind. I mumbled a few words, (few of which I remember even now) and with a feeling of humiliation I returned to my seat feeling about two inches tall.

I considered this experience a bad one because, public speaking is something I enjoy and whenever given an opportunity I usually raise to the occasion. What was different this time? I asked myself this question during my time of reflection and my daughters these are some of the conclusions I came to.

Firstly, always prepare. Because I enjoy public speaking I completely downplayed the need to prepare. What made preparation of even great importance is that this would have been my first time speaking at a funeral where I was emotionally impacted without some guide lines.

The second thing I learned was always put things in perspective. Even thought I felt that my speech “stank to high heaven” can you believe that there were people there who thought that I had done a good job? I was surprised to say the least. Initially I wanted to hang my head in embarrassment, but after reflecting and getting a few opinions, I realized that my speech was not great, but in the words of trusted friend “it was a good effort.’’

Yes for me this was a bad experience but I was not deterred from, or soured on public speaking. I choose instead to use my “embarrassing moment” as a learning experience, something I will always remember, and will grow from.

So young ladies when you visit the “School of Embarrassment,” like me or when faced with a bad experience, look at it for what it’s worth and see what lesson is in it that you can learn from; get an opinion from a trusted friend or a mentor who will be truthful.

My daughters not matter what you are faced with always remember that you are wonderfully made by God and he will see you through, because you are precious in His sight.

Until next time continue to enjoy girltalk and always put God first.
Love you lots!!!!!!

By Cleora Williams
GT March/May 08

Words of Advice

By Jasemine K. Green

Keep your head up no matter what people think or say,
Because you’re living your life, step by step and day by day
Remembering that what people say is not your business,
Especially if they are not helping to fulfill your lifetime dreams or wishes
Even though it may seem real hard to, ignore them,
And let their negative words be discarded,
As the positive ones are regarded
Choose your friends wisely I say,
Through doing this you may live to see another day
You are known by the company you keep,
So choose where you will never have to weep

The Issue of Trust (from a mother's perspective)

By Cleora Williams

Why don’t my parents trust me, I haven’t done anything wrong?




As a parent, a mother in particular, as I reflect on the above topic, I can immediately think of several reasons why mothers sometimes, do not trust their daughters, even when they claim that they have done nothing wrong.

Uttermost in my mind is peer pressure: the need to impress, wanting to fit in. As mothers we watch you our daughters and we see your vulnerabilities: wanting to be like the other girls, we see it in the way you dress, in your speech and all the other mannerisms that we sometimes frown upon. We see the light in your eyes when a particular boy is near by. And, so we are concerned and we worry that you, our daughters will want to fit in or maybe you will want to impress but we hope that you will remember what you were taught.

Another reason we may hesitate to trust you is, your need or longing to do it “your way”. But as mothers where is the line drawn? When should we intervene? Should you, our daughters have to feel the fire in order to believe that it burns? Why not trust Mummy who may have been burnt a few times herself? So herein, lies a problem mothers wanting to hold on and guide their daughters, and daughters pulling away from mothers saying “why can’t you leave me alone, to live my life, don’t you trust me?”

And finally, another reason trust may be missing in a parent\child relationship is a child’s desire to experiment. I remember as a teenager, on the rare occasion when I was allowed to attend a school dance in my small settlement, I took full advantage of my temporary freedom. There were times that I found myself in situations that I knew if Mama could see me now I would be dead. When Mama would ask, “So how was the dance, what did you do?” I would casually say, “It was ok, I didn’t do anything”

So nowadays when we ask our daughters, “How was the party? or “How was Port Lucaya, what did you do?” and we get a shrug of the shoulders and the age old reply “It was ok, I didn’t do anything” our antennas immediately goes up. We know that our daughters are curious, also in most cases we know you (our daughters) would rather ask a friend or in many cases experiment and find out the hard way. So as your mothers we are afraid that you would get the incorrect information from a friend who is probably equally as curious as you and equally as uniformed. So when I hear it was ok, I didn’t do anything, I look again and ask are you sure?

They that trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abideth forever”. Psalms 125:1

So, I say to you our daughters, trust in God, put Him first in all that you do. And to parents, mothers in particular, remember if you train up your daughter in the way she should go when she is old she will not depart from it.

Priceles Pearls

By Jasmine Green age 17

A gift that’s so priceless has no cost,
With that thought in mind,
it should be kept so tight
That it’s never lost
To lose a gift of such great quality
Can only be the plan of the enemy
To make your life a total waste,
That will cause you not to enjoy
the wonderful taste
Of living a prosperous
and righteous life,
Therefore giving you the mindset
that you’re not eligible
to become someone’s wife
The enemy feels as if he has already won,
By making you think
that nothing can be done
So now you’re stuck with something called
low self esteem
Thinking that there’s no way on earth
you can be redeemed
Well I’m here to share the good news,
You can be restored
just turn to the Lord,
He never will refuse, the life of you such
a priceless pearl,
For he knows that there is great works to be done
by you in this world.