Trinette Collier Greene

Q: I'm a single Christian woman practicing celibacy and I want to get married. However, in the midst of me waiting, I’m having ‘thoughts’ but I’m a Christian woman! How could this be? Help!

Signed: I.P. ~ Celibate and Waiting

A: Well, let me tell you first and foremost, you are a human being, a woman and a person who is having natural feelings. It is very natural even as a Christian woman to have those urges and thoughts. Living in a world that is fueled with constant sex through music, television, social media, conversation, etc… celibacy can honestly be a bit challenging and stressful in times such as these. I know this to be true because I was celibate for eight years before meeting my husband. I used to cry out to God wondering if I was a hypocrite or what because I had dreams, thoughts, conversations that would lead to sex and I didn’t understand how could this be! I honestly thought I was keeping myself pure at heart.

Throughout the journey, I realized that I was placing unwarranted pressure on myself because I wanted to prove to people that I could be this super celibate Christian woman on a quest so that my husband could find me! Not true…in fact, the journey became more personal, spiritual and the outcome was very different. For me, my celibacy journey was about me being obedient and renewing my body, mind, and spirit from the past. I had to reevaluate my situation and have a ‘coming to Jesus moment’ about what was happening because I truly did not understand at first. I had to be 100% honest with God about it all.

Here are a few tips that helped me on the celibacy journey;

1. Ask yourself why are you practicing celibacy? Is it for a deeper relationship with God? Is it only to find a mate and get married? Are you trying to prove that you are a super Christian?
2. Learn about celibacy. It is more than just abstaining from sex.
3. Learn about your body, emotions, feelings and more as a woman.
4. Find other Christian women/men who are on the same journey. Encouragement from others that are experiencing the same can help keep the mind clear.
5. Clear your mind. Be mindful of what you watch, speak, conversations and other things. Be honest with yourself, if you are unable to handle certain environments, then remove yourself.
6. Be honest with God. Talk to Him about what you are feeling and ask Him to help you. Don’t give up or feel discouraged. God will bless you for your obedience.

I will keep you in prayer!

Until next time, laugh, love, and live life!

Love,
AunT

Trinette Collier Greene is a Certified Relationship Stylist and Contributing Writer.

Submit your relationship questions to AskAunT@gmail.com

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Benita Spinner

BENITA SPINNER

Mrs. Benita Spinner is a bestselling author, CEO, and Founder of BMS Talent & Entertainment (BMS). Clients, under BMS management, have landed roles on numerous television shows and commercials to include: Sesame Street, Law & Order SUV, Homeland, Purell, Expedia, Square, Honey Bunches of Oats, and Yahoo’s Kids Take On.

The organization has grown into much more than just a talent agency. Under Mrs. Spinner’s leadership, she has expanded the organization to include mentoring, leadership, and activism. This expansion can be read about through her authored works.

Her first authored title is part of an anthology called Reflections: I Wish I’d Known. This book is a bestselling novel on Amazon in multiple categories. Benita then went on to compile her own anthology titled The Aftermath: Life After which is a collection of stories about life after overcoming severe trauma. She now boasts two best sellers on Amazon!

Benita has been recognized by her peers as one of the most influential people to know in Washington, D.C. She was featured in Vital Magazine where she earned the award Entrepreneur of the Month. She is deeply committed to numerous community service projects in the D.C, Maryland, and Virginia area.

She regularly hosts events to empower and uplift the community by creating opportunities to network with business peers. She hosts workshops to educate aspiring entertainers new to the industry. Benita has been invited to take part in Actors Showcases with top casting directors and has been booked for several speaking engagements. She is part of the McKinnon Acting Studio Youth Division team where she offers mentoring to parents of young actors.

Mrs. Spinner often uses her platform, as an ambassador, to speak out against domestic violence and sexual assault. She is creating her first stage play called Out of Time which addresses the topic of domestic violence. She has been the keynote speaker at events in New York and other cities across the U.S. discussing how to heal after physical or emotional trauma.

While focused on healing, BMS launched an apparel division that focuses on delivering positive messages for people to wear. In addition, Benita launched the ‘BMSTE Radio Show’ which focuses on topics such as the arts, business, networking, and all things entertainment.

IG: benitaspinnrceo

Facebook: benitaspinnerceo

Website: benitaspinner.com

Benita Spinner CEO/Founder 

BMS Talent & Entertainment

p: 301-915-5634
a: 554 N. Frederick Ave. Gaithersburg, MD 20877
w: bmste.com 

e: benita.spinner@bmstalentandentertainment.com

Cover Reveal - Diesel, The Dittleberry's Diva by Cindy H. Reed

     Trinette Collier Greene

Q: My husband started a business and I’m very proud of him but he won’t let me help him with any of the paperwork, bookkeeping, etc… Do you think he's hiding anything from me?

M.D. ~ Nosey or Not

A: It’s typical for a spouse to want to help their mate in a business. It sounds as though you are really proud and just want to help him out with anything if needed, and that’s great! That's being very supportive. However, ask your husband if you can be a part of his venture. If he declines your offer, it is OK. He’s not hiding anything from you.

Here are a few reasons why he may not want your help with those tasks but still needs your support:

1. He doesn’t want anyone to help him due to his pride
2. He wants to make you and his family proud
3. He may be entering this new venture so he can continue to provide for you and your family
4. This business may be something that he always wanted to build and it’s his opportunity
5. He wants you to support him by just being there

Don’t worry, you are part of his team. Continue praying for him, cheering him on and be his confidant in those times that will become a bit tough for him.

Until next time, laugh, love and live life!

Love,
AunT

Trinette Collier Greene is a Certified Relationship Stylist and Contributing Writer.

Submit your relationship questions to AskAunT@gmail.com

Divine Wellness by Traci A. Fonville

“Don’t waste another minute dealing with a toxic, negative, energy-draining person. Some people are wired for negativity. They love being argumentative, combative and abusive. Run for your life as quickly as possible.” 
-Les Brown

Negative, toxic folks! We all know them….we try to keep them at arm’s distance but somehow, trying to be the good people that we are, we let them in and they drain us of our energy and ability to just be. What does that have to do with essential oils? Well, I’m glad you asked!

This month, we’re spotlighting Melaleuca or Tea Tree essential oil, also known as the oil of energetic boundaries. The leaves of the Melaleuca tree were used by the Aborigines of Australia for centuries, as they would apply the crushed leaves directly to the skin for a cooling effect. On an emotional level, this oil clears negative energetic baggage to make way for healthy connections and relationships to take root. Known for its purifying properties, this oil can be used to cleanse and purify the skin and nails and supports a healthy complexion.

Melaleuca/Tea Tree essential oil can be used:

• NEAT – which means that the oil can be applied to the skin without dilution.

• AROMATICALLY – place three to four drops in a diffuser with water to purify your home environment.

• INTERNALLY – Can be diluted in water or used in a vegetable capsule to support immune function. (*Not all essential oils can be used internally. Please read labels very carefully before ingesting.)

Another one of the most popular oils, Melaleuca has a number of top properties, including:

• Antiseptic

• Antibacterial

• Antifungal

• Anti-parasitic

• Antiviral

• Analgesic

• Decongestant

Just take a look at some of the most common issues that Melaleuca can support:

• Cuts, Wounds

• Viruses, Bacteria

• Cold Sores

• Candida, Athlete’s Foot

• Bronchitis, Colds, Flu

• Sore throat

• Cavities, Gum Disease

There is so many more everyday uses for Melaleuca! I even use it in my bathroom, to clean the little germy monsters that my family brings home. Energetically, Melaleuca can be applied to the bottom of the feet to release toxic energy and can also be used in a spray bottle with distilled water to mist around the home. If your home and your personal space are free of negativity, emotionally and physically, there’s a better chance of creating healthy boundaries and maintaining your peace of mind. Yesss….peace of mind! No more energy drainers!!!

These oils have become a part of my everyday life, so much so, it’s like having my own natural pharmacy right at home. If you’d like to learn more about essential oils and how they can benefit you and your family, please feel free to email me at iaffirmwellness@gmail.com. Until next month! Be well!

Traci A. Fonville is a certified holistic health coach, a graduate of the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and a registered yoga teacher. She is the owner of I Affirm Wellness, which specializes in health coaching and beginner yoga classes. As a Wellness Advocate for dōTERRA Essential Oils, Traci educates on proper usage and benefits. Follow Traci on Instagram and Facebook @iaffirmwellness. Log onto her website for health and wellness products at www.mydoterra.com/iaffirmwellness.

Traci A. Fonville

Contributing Writer