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Protect Me Like Academy Sports Protects its Online Purchases

Audio Companion

 

See the picture above, this was me last week relaxing in my new RIO Beach Backpack Lounger from Academy Sports.

Please forgive my nearly closed eyes, but I’ve been dealing with some major sinus congestion for more than a week now. Sheer agony!

Anyway, for weeks I had been searching for a beach lounger, when I came across the perfect one on the Academy Sports Website. The color scheme perfectly matched my beach dining accessories from Tabitha Brown’s latest release at Target, it was light weight, and the straps were perfect for easy portability.

I ordered the lounger using a gift card that I received on my birthday last year. When I arrived at the store to pick up my order, I decided to use curbside pickup, since I was not feeling well. I selected the appropriate options to alert an associate that I was outside waiting. When the associate arrived, he immediately asked me for my ID. This posed a problem for me because I had lost my driver’s license at the beach, the previous weekend. Before uttering a word, I looked in my purse and retrieved the gift card that I used to make the purchase, my confirmation email, and my temporary driver’s license.

As I am doing all of this, I told the associate that I had lost my driver’s license, but I had all the items that I listed above as verification that I was in fact the person that placed and paid for the order.

The associate’s initial response was to refuse delivery. My response was, how will my picture ID assure you that I am the person who made the online purchase? Your website didn’t ask for a picture, so how would that help you validate the purchase and me as the purchaser?

We discussed the dilemma for a few minutes and then a second associate came out to my car whom I assume was a manager.

After about a 10-minute delay, I was able to get my order.

As I began driving away, I immediately thought to myself, I need this kind of protection in my life.

Protect Me Like Academy Sports Protects its Online Purchases!

The intention, the verification, and the validation of transacting with the appropriate party was top tier for me. Although I was the one who could not provide the needed information, I appreciate the steps taken by the store to ensure that I was in fact who I claimed to be.

Imagine if each of us took that same level of care in our everyday relationships. Instead of rushing into agreements with others, what if we took time to actually validate who they really are? I was able to gain the trust of the associates because I described the color of my dining accessories and how the colors complimented the lounger that I purchased. I also talked about my past trip to the beach and my intention of going back. All of this discussion helped the associates get to know a little about me and become comfortable with the decision to give me my lounger.

I’ve had a number of representatives show up in my life claiming to be someone whom they really were not. When I thought that I was dealing with someone who had integrity and was trustworthy, but in reality, they turned out to be just the opposite.

The lessons that I am taking from this encounter are:

  1. I will always show up as my authentic self, and I will expect others to do the same
  2.  I will value the connections that can be made by simply engaging in a little small talk
  3. I will respect the boundaries and values of others, and I will expect others to show the same respect to me

These are simple truths that are now part of my #originsofpeace.

How about you? Are you showing up authentically, and do you have set expectations and values that others must adhere to?

There is a quote that says,

Intention is one of the most powerful forces there is. What you mean when you do a thing will always determine the outcome. The law creates the world.”

 

My intention is to be protected as well as Academy Sports protects its online purchases! What’s your intention?

Peace & Blessing!

Melissa

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Is the First Impression the Only Impression?

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were judged based on a version of you that existed long ago?

If so, were you bothered by it?

As a continuously evolving individual, there are so many different versions of you that will exists, over the span of your life.

I’ve found myself in that situation, and I can truthfully say that it didn’t feel good at all.

As a youth, I dealt with so many insecurities which often left me feeling inadequate, unsure of myself and isolated in a huge world.

These feelings caused me to retreat in certain situations, and to avoid settings that felt uncomfortable.

As a forward-thinking adult, therapy and self-reflection played a huge part in my process of becoming whole.

When others decide to judge you, based on who they knew you to be, during your impressionable years, it can trigger a setback and cause feelings of inadequacy to become more profound. You can also simply acknowledge what was said, glean any lessons that you need to take with you, and continue to move forward.

This week, I challenge you to move forward and celebrate yourself for making progress.

The level of value placed on the thoughts and opinions that others have about you, is totally up to you.

If you decide not to allow those opinions to weigh too heavily on your mind, don’t.

We all know those people who like to remind you of your past or who they think you are in their mind, and it can be a detractor from your progress.

Don’t allow it to be.

If you are doing the best that you can at this moment in life, keeping going. If you are placing too much value on the thoughts and opinions of others, stop doing that.

The purpose that God has placed in you, can’t be measured by another human being. Your purpose is God given. 

Place people in the categories where they belong in your life and keep this scripture close to your heart….

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,

Before you were born, I set you apart….. -Jeremiah 1:5

“You can’t find peace in a place that you do not trust. Trust yourself.”

Much Love,

Melissa

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Draw A Circle Around The Things You Love

What do you love and how do you keep it sacred?
Anyone or anything that is near and dear to my heart has a specific prayer strategy attached to it.
This is important to me now more than ever because the world is different, people are different and the expectations that are placed upon us can be quite daunting.
It can be A lot!
No matter how challenging times may seem, if I hold something sacred to my heart, I tend to protect it…sometimes more than I should.
                                                                           I can be guilty of protecting relationships that I have no business entertaining.
With this being the case, I place everything that is near to me in a prayer circle. I identify it as something special and then I create specific prayers around it.
My prayers include guidance to know if I should protect it, nurture it or eliminate it.
It is extremely important to classify accordingly. My circle includes family, friends, acquaintances, career & business and anything else that is significant to me.
I am definitely not a “good vibe” only type of person. I believe in genuine interactions and meaningful connections, however; when I’m done, I am done for real.
                           BUT TRULEY, I tell you, if anything that is within my circle allows outside influences to deteriorate what we have, a realignment is in order.
                As we prepare for Love & Culture Month (February), let’s get clear about what is important. If it is important to you, you should be important as well.
                                                                                                   What’s in your circle and do you have a prayer strategy for it?
On February 1st I will begin re-reading the book Draw the Circle The 40 Day Prayer Challenge.
Want to join me?  
We can check in with one another every 8 days or so to see how things are going and to discuss the revelations that are being shown to us.
Will you join me? Grab your copy here.
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Thank you!

Thank you for allowing Origins of Peace to serve you in 2022!

This year we’ve had a wonderful time making new connections, saying yes to new opportunities and becoming more intentional about the clients we serve and how we show up for them.

Each encounter has been amazing, and we expect greater in 2023.

In whatever way you are connected to Origins of Peace, we hope that we have made it easier for you to understand how creativity can bridge the gap to resolve a multitude of conflicts. 

As we wind down for 2023, I would like to extend an offer for you to enhance your toolkit to resolve conflict in a more creative and wholistic way.

As you know our core focus areas are mental clarity, self-preservation, rejuvenation and service to others, that’s why I am offering you 25% off the following sessions through December 31st. All you need to do is text the word GRATITUDE to 704-388-5276.

Discounted services include Create! Resolve! and Socialize!

My calendar is closed through the end of this year but grab your discounted service now and you and I will work together to schedule the best date and time for you in 2023.

As an additional gift, you will receive weekly affirmations to help you stay focused and on task for the year.

Visit www.originsofpeace.com to check out these services and all we have to offer.

Happy Holidays to you and everyone that you love.

With Gratitude,

Melissa A. Rivers- Origins of Peace

 

 

 

 

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Black Women Making A Difference

October is packed with purposeful causes to support. Here are two opportunities for you to get involved.

 

Join me on 09/18 for a Tea & Tell. You sip while I tell you all about the activities that I have planned for breast cancer Awareness Month.

Let’s join forces to make a difference in the lives of those who are experiencing this terrible disease.

Click here to register.

 

Are You Ready For Another Brisk Morning Run?

On Saturday October 22, 2022, at 7:30am we are excited to welcome our Charlotte Community together for our inaugural A Princess’s Closet 5K Race Edition. Whether you are a seasoned runner, someone that is just getting started or someone that prefers walking; we invite you to register for a brisk morning run. 

This race is geared for families to come together and cultivate community, contribute to their health and wellness and fellowship with other families in the Charlotte Metro area. All are welcome on this fun, fast and flat course on October 22, 2022. Register using the link below.

https://chantelgrier.com/lets-run-apc-5k

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Let’s talk about Creative Freedom 

Happy Sunday to you!

Today I am sharing one final lesson from my eBook Pray with Ease.

Creative Freedom 

Exercising Creative Freedom is much like wandering and exploring.

Have you ever taken a long walk in the woods or through a botanical garden? Maybe you’re adventurous and like to hike alongside a mountain waterfall.

When you have creative freedom in God’s word, it’s much like an exploration. You can freely move at your own pace and immerse yourself in everything that is around you while expressing your gratitude for the experience. 

Creative Freedom allows you to be bold, powerful and intentional. Once you set your intentions and find your Energy Enhancers take a moment to immerse yourself in the words. Explore the scriptures and feel the inspiration that is embedded within. 

Focused Intention + Energy Enhancers + Creative Freedom = The Ability to Pray with Easy

You are now ready to pray those bold, powerful, impactful prayers!

Here is a list of a few of my favorite tools for enhancing spiritual wellness: 

  • T.D. Jakes Woman Thou Art Loosed Bible 

  • The Bible Experience Old & New Testament 

  • Woman Evolve by Sarah Jakes Roberts

  • Journal & Writing Pen 

I wish you great success in all of your endeavors.

Stay in the know:

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: (1) Melissa Rivers – YouTube

Sign up for my email list: Origins of Peace, LLC – Continuous Improvement Coach, Personal Development Mentor, Professional Growth Educator! (melissaarivers.com)

Peace,

Melissa – Your Creative Peace Coach

www.originsofpeace.com

If you desire individual coaching to help enhance your spiritual wellness email me directly at melissa_rivers@originsofpeace.com

Sponsorship Opportunity

Sponsor a breast cancer Survivor for our Sister Support Circle in need.

Give her the gift of inclusion and belonging by financially supporting a survivor who would enjoy this opportunity to grow.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Heal Recover Grow Incorporated, a non-profit agency dedicated to assisting women who have experienced breast cancer, job loss or divorce re-engage in society as skillful, confident and empowered citizens by offering, self-improvement opportunities, skills development classes and mentoring relationships. 

There are several ways to donate:

  • Cash App: $originsofpeace07 

  • PayPal: paypal.me/originsofpeace 

  • US Mail: P.O. Box 481599 Charlotte, NC 28269. Check or money order made out to Origins of Peace. 

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The Happenings This Week at Origins of Peace

So much is happening at Origins of Peace, and I can’t help but to be excited about it.

Listen to the video below to learn more:

 

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Doing the Absolute Most!

 

There are so many Rhymes & Rhythms to

understanding Peace and the Pursuit of it.

Before I jump into the discussion about people pleasing, I want to explain the concept of Acknowledgement to

strengthen your Spiritual Wellness.

Increase your Acknowledgement of what is around you in order to build trust, knowledge and foresight to manage your personal struggles.

There will be times when you do not understand why “a certain thing” happened in your life, and you will not know if it happened to you or for you.

There will also be times when you cannot seem to shake the residual effects of “that certain thing”    BUT

There are special promptings and messages that show up as direction for your journey.

Biblical Scripture is my personal compass because the content found within it has helped me to elevate out of various dark places in my life.

You can utilize whatever word inspires you to take action, you just need discernment to notice the direction that is found within the text. 

I’ve used the word direction repeatedly because the word that inspires you needs to have a layout of forward progression.

 

Take a look at the diagram above.

The Energy Enhancer/ (Scripture) is: Genesis 50:20-21

The direction found within is: “Don’t Be Afraid.”

The knowledge gained is: God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives

The Trust Factor is: I will provide for you and your children

The Personal Struggle Statement is: You intended to harm me

Acknowledgement of all the factors contained in the scripture allow you to freely move in Peace. You are essentially giving a head nod to the fact that the opposition had it out for you, they tried everything in their power to trap you, but the intention for your life is greater than any plan they could think of or imagine SO THEREFORE God’s word over your life cancels out their plan. 

PERIOD.

You will find your blessing (Peace) on the other side of your personal struggle.

Face whatever you need to face and deal with whatever needs to be dealt with. By doing so you remove its power over your life.

You were designed to be a creator, an innovator, a mountain mover and an overcomer.

It’s time to live!

Now, a quick word about being a people pleaser or as I sometimes refer to them as “a performer.”

 

  • Are you the type of person who feels like you always have to be doing something to gain attention or support from others

  • Do you often feel overlooked or isolated if you are not helping someone by providing a solution to their problems

  • Do you neglect your self-care needs by putting the needs of others before your own

If any of these people pleasing/ performer traits sounds familiar to how you move in this world, it’s time to have a long talk with yourself and make different choices.

Neglecting your needs to appease others is a quick way to achieve mental, physical and emotional exhaustion.

When we fail to establish boundaries with others and we willingly perform in order to gain their acceptance, we are merely acting, and just like in the entertainment industry, we are not showing up authentically. You are uniquely and wonderfully made. Acknowledge that and walk in the acceptance that your needs matter too.

I am sharing 3 tips to help you put down the script and stop performing:

  • Realize that your needs are important

  • Develop an Action Plan to prioritize what you need

  • Ask yourself this question each day: “Did I choose me today?”

I’ve shared a lot today so let’s seal it with a prayer.

Click here to hear this message in its audio version and to receive the special prayer at the end.

You know how to reach me if I can be of service to you:

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: (1) Melissa Rivers – YouTube

Sign up for my email list: Origins of Peace, LLC – Continuous Improvement Coach, Personal Development Mentor, Professional Growth Educator! (melissaarivers.com)

Purchase my Course entitled Create! and let me help you start your journey to Peace.

Peace,

Melissa – Your Creative Peace Coach

www.originsofpeace.com

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Get Inspired with Energy Enhancers!

In my eBook Pray with Ease… I talk about Energy Enhancers.

To help you understand the concept, Energy Enhancers are the same as scripture, and scripture is inspired word.

Scripture inspires life, guidance, healing, love, encouragement, support, creativity, implementation, revelation and new beginnings.
I often use the following Energy Enhancers to get inspired!

  • Exodus 3:7-8 The Lord said, “I have seen the misery of my people

    in Egypt, and I have heard them crying out because of the slave

    drivers. I know how much they’re suffering. I have come to rescue

    them…”

  • Exodus 3:17 “I promise I will take away your misery.”

  • Psalm 4:8 “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord,

    make me dwell in safety.”

  • Psalm 5: 11-12 “But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let

    them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that

    those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you

    bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a

    shield.”

  • Psalm 7:17 “I will give thanks to the Lord because of his

    righteousness: I will sing the praises of the name of the Lord Most

    High.”

One of the common themes within each of these 5 Energy Enhancers is Safety, and where there is safety there is freedom.

Freedom to be loved, creative, spontaneous, open-minded, vulnerable, expectant and relaxed.

Scripture will set your soul on fire with confidence, boldness and power!

Keep a handful of Energy Enhancers ready and available for use at any given time.

During your study time, search for scriptures that speak to you directly. Take notice of the types of scripture that you are drawn to. Is there a common theme? Are you drawn to prosperity, grace, safety, revelation, etc.?

Once you’ve found a few scriptures that speak to you, write them
down on a flashcard and keep them close to you for instant inspiration!

Listen to this short audio reminder to help you keep God on Your Calendar. I pray you have a great week and thank you for being a part of the Origins of Peace Community!

 

Stay in the know:

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: (1) Melissa Rivers – YouTube

Sign up for my email list: Origins of Peace, LLC – Continuous Improvement Coach, Personal Development Mentor, Professional Growth Educator! (melissaarivers.com)

Peace,

Melissa – Your Creative Peace Coach

www.originsofpeace.com