Collective

A collective is a group of entities that share or are motivated by at least one common interest. People with like minds. Ants are a collective that work toward the mutual benefit of each other. There is a lot we can learn from ants; Their sense of teamwork, and their work ethic as well as their ability to plan ahead. Ants prepare for famine. They understand the "we" mentality. We must learn to form collectives with each other. We must find common ground. We must find what benefits our community as a whole. Forming collectives have the ability to help fortify our community both socially and economically.

The Table

We all want a seat at the table. When we are young, we want to sit at the grown folk’s table. When we are at work, we want our opinions to be heard. We want to know that we matter. We want to know that our feelings are valid, and we are understood. A seat at the table makes us feel like we belong. It levels the playing field. What table do you want to sit at? What is your strategy for earning your seat?

Talkers

We all know them. We love them. They tell the best stories. They are entertaining. They are likable. They are talkers. There is nothing wrong with talkers until you need a doer. Sometimes, talkers can be doers, but a lot of the time, they are just that “all talk.” There will come a point in your life when you will prefer a prayer and a doer over a taker and a talker.

Takers

We all have them in our life. Some are disguised as family and others as friends. They are always around. They always have their hand out, but when you need them they are no where to be found. They can’t help. Things are tight. It’s bad timing. Most givers find themselves surrounded by them. Takers. Takers hinder us. In order to thrive, we need to identify the takers in our life and learn to say, “no.” We need to allow some of these people to suffer the consequences of their bad decisions. More importantly, we aren’t God. We can’t save anyone. Get rid of the takers in your life and surround yourself with givers.

Appetite

Sometimes, we get so caught up in the natural that we neglect the spiritual. We exercise and make sure we eat healthy, but forget to pray. We have to make time to ensure that we take care of the whole man. What have you fed your soul today? Have you encouraged your spirit? Have you prayed and meditated? Maybe we should add those spiritual things to our “to-do “list. We have to develop an appetite for the things of God. It may take time. It may even taste strange, but it’s good for you.

Agree

Amos 3:3-5 (KJV) Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

Is it possible to walk with someone you disagree with? Yes, but it will be very difficult to go in the same direction with the same heart and mindset if you don’t agree. Many of us find ourselves trying to walk in disagreement with family, friends, and co-workers. Why? It makes the journey that much harder. Find people who you are going where you want to go. Find people in similar walks of life. Diversity is great. Disagreement is not. People don’t have to look like you to think like you and have the same spirit as you. Be open to new agreements, new perspectives and new opportunities. Walk and Agree.

Answered Prayers

My pastor said that, “God answers prayers incrementally.” We expect God to do the big things and forget about the baby steps. We want a house, but our credit is jacked. We want a car, but our license is suspended. We want long life, but have poor eating habits. We have to do the work. We have to be good stewards. We have to be responsible with the talents and blessings he’s already given us. God answers our prayers when we are ready for the responsibility that comes with them, not just because we asked. The key to answered prayers is enduring the process. Show thyself approved. Be in position to be blessed.