Have you ever wondered why certain relationships work while others crumble? Or maybe you've questioned the ways we navigate through challenging family dynamics? In our latest episode, we plunge into these questions and more as we journey through a tale from Louise Garrett's 'Happiness, Hurt and Healing'.
The episode takes off with a story of a young woman balancing her personal and professional life, contemplating a new relationship, and experiencing the warmth and complexities of a family gathering. We spin the tale of her date with Victor, an intimate phone call with Gentry, and her quest for a perfect life. Striking the perfect balance between independence and love, she presents an engaging narrative that's bound to resonate with many of you.
As we further meander through her journey, we explore the intricate dynamics of relationships, the subtle influence of fashion choices, and the essence of love in its various forms. We also ponder over the intriguing role of Victor as the family 'Mr. Fixit' and the importance of allowing others to resolve their disputes. Wrapping up the episode, we leave you with thoughts on the multifaceted nature of love. So, join us as we weave a tale filled with introspection, life lessons, and a lot of heart.
Have you ever wondered why certain relationships work while others crumble? Or maybe you've questioned the ways we navigate through challenging family dynamics? In our latest episode, we plunge into these questions and more as we journey through a tale from Louise Garrett's 'Happiness, Hurt and Healing'.
The episode takes off with a story of a young woman balancing her personal and professional life, contemplating a new relationship, and experiencing the warmth and complexities of a family gathering. We spin the tale of her date with Victor, an intimate phone call with Gentry, and her quest for a perfect life. Striking the perfect balance between independence and love, she presents an engaging narrative that's bound to resonate with many of you.
As we further meander through her journey, we explore the intricate dynamics of relationships, the subtle influence of fashion choices, and the essence of love in its various forms. We also ponder over the intriguing role of Victor as the family 'Mr. Fixit' and the importance of allowing others to resolve their disputes. Wrapping up the episode, we leave you with thoughts on the multifaceted nature of love. So, join us as we weave a tale filled with introspection, life lessons, and a lot of heart.
Hello everyone. This is Carolyn Coleman. I just want to come on tonight and read to you something I have been promising that I would do. We're on Gentry's journey. First of all, we just want to give God the praise. I've had a wonderful day today. It has been busy, it has been full, but I thank God for it, because he didn't have to do it but he did. So we just want to always acknowledge him for all that he does and all that he's going to do, and just tell him thank you. We just give him the highest praise. We say hallelujah. So I'm going to be reading tonight and this is portions of it A couple of books. The first one is going to be happiness, hurt and healing, and it has a man's perspective and it's by Louise Garrett. So we're going to get started. Let's play a song first to get us there.
Speaker 3:Okay. So, admittedly, I can be anxious at times as I consider the challenges I have to face, like when I work to get ahead of still fall behind. I start to wonder if I was meant to win the race. I'm striving to do things right and when things go wrong, tempted to hide. But this time I will be steep. But this time I will be steep. And thankfully, it's hard for me to keep feeling this way when I consider who is on my side.
Speaker 3:The Lord is my help, walking with me every step I need to take on the desperate days and the long dark nights. Oh, 247, he never seems. Thank you, father, and when I remember he brings peace. This time I will be steep. And the mountain has to move. The mountain must stop it, the words that I speak and bow down to my faith, because I've got a word to do and I'm gonna see it through. God, show me the way and I'm choosing it today. The mountain has to move. The mountain must obey the words that I speak and bow down to my faith Because I've got a word to do and I'm gonna see it through. God show me the way and I'm choosing it today. I have decided this time I will be steep. This time, no mountain can stop me. This time I'm focused in the revolution. My help is coming. My help is here in you. The Lord is my help.
Speaker 3:This time I'm trusting and believing, and determined to finish. The Lord is my help. The Lord is my help. This time.
Speaker 2:The mountains are moving.
Speaker 3:The passion has to go, confusion has to cease, life has to leave. This time, this time, I'm speaking to it as the Lord moves, moves, moves. I'm gonna get out of my way. This time I will be steep, still believing. This time, I will be steep, god's way. Your pain, this time, is perfect when you're still steep.
Speaker 1:I hope you all enjoyed that and thanks everyone for tuning in. Don't forget you can say hello in the chat, you can clap your hands and let me know, and we're gonna get started Soaking in the tub, wondering how I got here, crying, praying, analyzing for hours, toes turning to raisins, rewarming the water, letting some out Kill for not to let it spill on the floor Because we all know who will help to clean it up, putting in more water. Oh, this is my new hobby. Just thinking I have a new daily hobby Soaking in the tub.
Speaker 1:Year one, for years prior, I met this fine and I mean Denzel Barock fine man. We met at a banquet my cousin was hosting. She introduced us. He was charming and had a welcoming smile. Conversation was open and intelligent. You know he was really smooth. No slang Such a. You know, you know what I mean, you know what I'm talking about. My inner person always would respond no, I don't know what you mean and I don't know what you're talking about. So his conversation I could really get into. We ended the night laughing and talking. It felt easy. We both agreed we had a better time than we thought we would. We said our goodbyes and I left with my cousin.
Speaker 1:She hadn't been the ultimate social butterfly Me. I'm the average social butterfly Smiling, greeting, the usual hellos, the small talk. She needed me. As usual, I was the only one who was To be the greeter, but I enjoy getting out and doing something different and seeing people. I am the ultimate people watching. It took us me to analyze them, see their quirks, confidence, insecurities, the phoniness, the things people display. Ladies pulling at their dresses which were too short or too tight to wear, and I was the only one who was able to wear them. I'm shaking my head and smiling, asking myself why their dates, looking as though their ties were choking them Suit, look like they had been in a fight, and the suit one. There's a certain look when a person wears their clothes and when the clothes wear them. Now, do not get me wrong, I'm the only one who truly look gorgeous and there was some fine brothers. You know they were all GQ dress shoes, shine collars, chris Swagging, before I knew what the word really meant. I just love to see a well dressed man, confident, and walking with that swag Not cocky but confident Sport or dress coat, and I love to see her dress. And I love to see her dress, just so. Yes, that's what Gigi likes.
Speaker 1:Daphine is my cousin. She loves planning events. She's always smiling, that sneaky grand when she's out, being lady like. She walks with confidence and the men love to see the sway of her hips and she's always smiling and she's always facing close and similar personalities. I can be a bit more bitey than she. He has a small tendency To allow people to just talk smack to her. Then I have to hear it all the way home what she should have said, what she should have done, and I witnessed it. I then step in to redirect the conversation. We're just going to have to walk away. Thank you, we'll talk with you later. That's usually my cue. When we have a chance to sit, she gets close and slightly places her head on my shoulder, being careful, you have to get makeup on me. Big sis, I love you. I need a little bit more of your toughness. I always respond. We grew up like sisters we brought. We both grew up with brothers. You know, sometimes just stand your ground.
Speaker 4:Now I think I'm going to play a new tune and I know, and they will tell you, that fame is pretty new. But I've been used to people judging me. That's why I moved away. I'm moving, why I'm so in love with me. I'm used to feeling hollow, so I thought that I'd let you know. In case nobody told you today you're special, in case nobody made you believe you're special, well, I will always love you the same. You're special. I'm so glad that you're still with us, broken, but damn, you're still perfect.
Speaker 5:Special. Could you imagine a world where everybody's the same and you could cancel a girl cause she just wanted to change? How could you throw stones if you ain't been through a pain? That's why we feel so alone. That's why we feel so ashamed. I'm used to feeling hollow. So I thought that I'd let you know. In case nobody told you today you're special, in case nobody made you believe you're special, well, I will always love you the same. You're special. I'm so glad that you're still with us, broken, but damn, you're still perfect. I know that I'm not alone, so I thought that I'd let you know. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. In case nobody told you today you're special, in case nobody made you believe you're special, well, I will always love you the same You're special.
Speaker 1:I'm so glad that you're still with us, broken, but damn, you're still perfect. Special you are, you are, you are so special. Hey, this'll say the right. We're all special, you know, we're all special. Now let's get back to gentry.
Speaker 1:On Monday morning, back at work, about to enter into a meeting, I got a call from my cousin. Daphne is breathless. The guy we met the other night. He wants to talk to you. He wants your number.
Speaker 1:Hello, the girl is not dependent for this. I'm not ready to become serious with anybody. I'm not looking to be in a relationship. I have things to do. I need to finish this master's program and become acclimated to my new job.
Speaker 1:Daphne is relentless. I've already checked him out. He's cool, he works, he has his own home. I know his family. They're good people. I was shaking my head the entire time. This is not the path I desire to take. Daphne, I'll think about it. Let me get back with you. Don't mess this up. Don't mess this up, gentry. Thanks, daphne.
Speaker 1:I gave in, called Daphne, give him my number, we'll see what we can do. He called me the next day. Gives me his name, gives me the name of a restaurant when we were to meet and have dinner and we could do that on Friday. I'm glad he's sparing me a few minutes to get myself together. I'm glad he thought I had a schedule to keep. I'll meet you there. If there's no me, I can pick you up. I'm good, we'll meet there. No problem, I'm safe, I am of some word. He insists. Okay, victor, I'll see you there.
Speaker 1:We had usual conversation, introduced ourselves. We did not mention exes. The conversation was light but consistent. It felt genuine. He was dressed nice. Again, I love the colors of how he put them together the navy blue dress shirt, the caramel brown pants. He was not overdressed but you could tell he took pride in his appearance. He is an accountant, a numbers driven man. I'll have to think about that one.
Speaker 1:We discussed topical items. He had no children. He was divorced. I'm the same. He discussed work and his busy times of the year Plus his ongoing projects. I told him teaching was good, but I feel I have more to give. You are a mentor, a part time parent, arbitrator, judge, and then you just might get to teach them something. I was pleased. By the end of the evening he walked me to my car, we said our goodbyes and I drove home. Gentry calls. Gentry, call me when you get home. He insisted I would. I'll do it, not a problem. I wanted to drive a little. I had so much on my mind Exams to create, grades to complete, conferences to attend and my own classwork to do. There went that nice evening. I called when I got home, thanked them for the good time, entered my home. I still live with my parents. Nope, nope, nope. I'm going home to my house. My parents always say you're always welcome. I know I think I live here too much. I need to see my own home.
Speaker 5:My life will never be the same, girl. You came and changed the way I walk, the way I don't. I cannot explain the things I feel for you, girl. You know it's true. I'll stay with you, I'll fill my dreams and I'll be all you need. Feels alive, girl. That's love of her, love of a life. I'm fine.
Speaker 5:I have feels, alive, alive, deep down, deep down, and I find it around to come on, girl. My world can tell you did everything I did. You're the way I'm, the way I find it the way I do. I'm fine. I have feels, alive, alive, deep down, deep down, deep down, and I find it around to come on, girl. I knew that love would bring there's happiness to be. I tried to keep my sanity. I waited patiently, girl. You know, it seems life is full, complete. I love this dream. I call it the future. I could do whatever you do. I'm the perfect girl. I search for all my life. I'm the perfect girl. I search for all my life. I'm the perfect girl. I search for all my life. I'm the perfect girl. I search for all my life.
Speaker 4:I'm the perfect girl. I search for all my life. I'm the perfect girl I search for all my life. I'm the perfect girl. Wow, you're right in my world. I'm not like you to come by. You're not my world. You know, you feel me and everything I do I get you right in my world. I'm not like you to come by. Girl, I know that this is love. I feel some bad things more than the end. I'm not like and girl. I'm never getting up. That's why I always have to have you here. You're right in my world. You're right in my world. Look what you did to me, baby. You're gonna make me go. Fine, You're gonna have to do to come by. You're right in my world. You know you did. You're gonna make me go, fine. You're not like you to come by. You're right in my world. You're not what you do.
Speaker 2:You did the way you talk to me. I've got way you lovein' me the way you do better to me. You're not what you do you did to me Tonight tonight. Yeah, yeah, no, no, yeah, come on, say yeah, you're right in my world. You're right in my world. You're right in my world. You're right in my world. Come on, girl, come on girl. Baby, baby, baby, baby. You're shining for me. You're gonna make my life. You're right in my world To rock my world. To rock my world the way that you talk mine.
Speaker 1:Okay, now you all are just getting snippets of the read. I'm going to skip around from chapters because I want you to go to my website and order the book. It's cpwbookshelfcom. Now we're going to continue. We are at a banquet celebrating his grandmother's birthday. We are eating and drinking and he and I were laughing at his silliness. We were amazingly comfortable with each other. This young lady comes up and speaks to everyone at the table. She's asking Victor about the skit she put on. He was talking to me and making sure I was comfortable and he was trying to eat. Victor, just tell her you're eating so she can move on. I thought she was a dozen. I was, as opposed to no. Her name was Patricia. She knew everyone there and helped organize the skit. She speaks to me. I returned the greeting. She is attractive, she's friendly enough, but things felt a little off. I could not put my finger on it, but I know things were not as they appeared. All the grandchildren came in from out of town, so instead of just having the birthday banquet, they decided to make a weekend out of it. We attend this picnic.
Speaker 1:The kids wanted to play volleyball. Well, I have some main volleyball skills, so my smack talking and my quick wit and my skills returned pretty quickly. I had so much fun with them. We had several good volleys going. The guys were stronger but the girls had me. The adults stayed out of it and cheered us on. The guys were saying take that in your face. I rallied my troops. I saw the open holes, told them where to direct their hits. They found their strength and we were score for score.
Speaker 1:One teen girl came up to me and said I do not know how to serve. It's my turn. Oh, yes, you do. We're going to get a quick lesson. I showed her how to hold the ball and how to hit the ball and told her hit it hard, make sure it gets over the net. I put the pressure on her and told her you can make us win. She hits the ball well. It went over the net and she was so proud she forgot she was playing the game. The guys sent it back. I jumped up high, gave it back. It was return. I took over someone's spot because she was not at her post. When I went over, just above the net, the guys thought I would send it to the back row. It went very close to the net and shouted in your face. She ran to her parents telling them about the game because we won. The boys were defeated, dragging around saying the girl won, but they did not know they all won. I was there too. They were there. It was just a friendly game. The family got a kick out of me and my athletic ability. She ran me on and you, oh Gigi, I hit that victory dance move last. Sit down because I was tired.
Speaker 1:We got a Sunday dinner at his grandparents A dozen patricias there talking to everyone bringing in gifts Funny, I do not remember her being at the picnic. The ladies started clearing the table. I started washing dishes. Conversations seemed empty and I'm wondering why. But hey, I'm new to the group so I am really not concerned. My sister-in-law leaves the kitchen, the cousin leaves at 12. That leaves me and another sister to finish cleaning up. It was not a big deal for me, but it was for her. She started complaining. I am like why Crap, if you talk about one, you'll talk about two. In my inside voice, I'm not getting in that mess. I'm new to the group. When we finish, one brother and his wife follow victory in us to his house.
Speaker 1:I am the topic of conversation. Who are you Me? I'm Gentry. What do you do? I teach adult learning. How did you two meet At a banquet?
Speaker 1:Are you standing night? Ok, that's when my head spins and my mouth falls open. The answer to that question is no. She wants to know why I'm not staying over. Ok, I'm uncomfortable with this line of questioning. Yes, vic, as I often call him, I'm not doing this. I'm not doing this. I think he should have stepped in and cleared the air. He felt like I was being too rough. I didn't think so. That wasn't a reason. I don't know her. She might be an ex murderer Freak. He said I was too rough with her. I don't think I was rough enough If you had to step in and deal with your part. I don't know these people. You should have defended me a little better. Gentry, calm down. Maybe, maybe I will, maybe I won't. I'll see you. I'll see you later and I hung up. I'm done.
Speaker 1:The next day he calls to attempt to revisit the night before. I said it is not up for discussion. You had me out there and went with it. I get that's your sister in my head. I heard the previous conversation when she was mumbling when the sister-in-laws and the cousin left her to do the dishes, so now she is definitely on the watch list. I explain my position again. I defended myself again. What I do is my business, and my business alone. What we do should be our business, and that's where it's going to stay. End of discussion. Either you take it or leave it. I'm good either way. Sometimes we just have to stand up around. So let's see what Aretha has to say about some of this. You're no good heartbreaker. You're liar in your cheat and I don't know why I let you do these things to me. My friends keep telling me that you ain't no good.
Speaker 5:Oh, oh, oh. But they don't know that I'd leave you if I could. I guess I'm uptight and I'm stuck like glue Because I ain't never, I ain't never, I ain't never, I ain't never, I ain't never, I ain't never, I ain't never. I love the man who way that I love you. So time ago I thought you would run out of food, but I was so wrong. You got one that you never knew. The way you treat me is a shame.
Speaker 4:How could you hurt me so bad. Baby, you know that I'm the best thing that you ever had. Kiss me once again. Don't you never, never, say that we're through, Because I ain't never, never, never, no, no. I love the man the way that I love you. I can't sleep at night and I can't eat a bite. I guess I'll never be free, since you got your hopes in me.
Speaker 1:Oh, oh, oh yeah yeah, yeah, I ain't never love the man. I ain't never love the man. Baby Ain't never had a man to hurt me so bad. But this is what I'm going to do my life. Okay, let's continue on Victor's family plans a trip to New York.
Speaker 1:As we're traveling, he mentions marriage. I tell him it's doable, but I'm not ready. I want to finish this degree before diving into something as committed as a marriage. We agreed to put the discussion off for six months, I think. Now he brought it up but in hindsight, due to his family and friends, they were asking him when was it going to happen? Yes, I am still in school. I was going part-time and I had my own timeline. Vic never pressured me about school. New York was great. Extended family and I were coming together. Good, the brother and sister-in-law still standoffish.
Speaker 1:I'm a size four with nice legs. Yes, I dress nicely and yes, my dresses and skirts are short, still wearing them, but I look like a lady when I put them on. Run up in the South. Teach you how to dress. I wear hats, not gloves, but I'm close. I love my little sports car, so picture all of that together.
Speaker 1:The people I grew up with will occasionally stop me All. That car fits you. You look great in it. We need to hang out sometime. I have a busy schedule I don't think we'll be able to do that, but maybe so. You never know what the future holds. I do know everyone will not support you and sometimes they just want to be close for their own reasons, their own goals. So I have to stay focused. We saw the usual sights in New York Times Square, palo, central Park, the horse-drawn carriages, statue of Liberty, tour buses. Oh, they were great. I think that was my favorite part. I would love to go back and experience some more NYC.
Speaker 1:The natives are about to get restless, meaning his family Tempers are getting short. Victor and I are laughing because we know someone is about to go off. He tells me someone wants him to settle a dispute. A dispute. You are not, mr Fixit, stay out of it. He insists. They want me to have a talk with one of our cousins. He did not pay his dues. Don't get involved in that, victor. Let those two men disturb that. I want to help handle it.
Speaker 2:OK, then.
Speaker 1:Will you help? You're just being nosy. It's embarrassing. It's embarrassing to him if you bring that up. The guy does not have the funds and it is too proud to say so. Yes, it's fine for him to be there because someone else is coming out of their pocket to pay his heart. Now you want to be Mr Arbitrator? If I was you, I'd stay out of it. I tell him I will keep an eye out for you because your peeps are about to get crumped and I am ready to get off this bus. He smuggles states.
Speaker 1:We know how to act, but y'all don't know how to play. I am not saying you do not know how to act, I just know people. We love heart and we get irritated. Everyone puts on their best face, but it gets old. Three days of seeing each other day in and day out gets old. We get back to the hotel with no major incidents, but Vic is anxious to step his foot into that ant bed. I leave him with these parting words Leave it alone. I know that. Look he has given me. He cannot wait to give his opinion. I opt out of it. Well, let me put it this way he does not ask me to calm, not that I would have. Why be a hypocrite? When he comes back, I am relaxed, I have showered, I have eaten, I am drinking and he is lit. He falls on the bed and goes to sleep. I'll say to myself and you want to sell or to dispute? I grant and find something else to eat.
Speaker 1:Laura and his family member or friend, everyone said, is the life of the party, the one who has every one life she always brings to heat. Laura's from Texas, very smart. She's a manager in a leading cosmetic company. She comes up to me pimping and I said girl, not today. We laugh because we know she is full of it. She starts joking with me. Then several other females come up. I think I'm being ganged up on. I'm not familiar with them, so I'm just going to have to bite my lip on some things. Laura is talking smack regarding people, relationships.
Speaker 1:Gigi, ok, you like steak, it's good, but what if you had a taste for some baloney? No harm, no foul. Right, girl, get out of my face with that CIA 12. She says answer the question. We're all wrong. And will you go for the baloney? I start laughing, sipping my tea. I'm not drunk, this is tea. You are trouble. You're the cousin everybody loves. I take the feel. Laura says you have steak at home, but the baloney may be good. The other lady starts snickering. I stand up, say my steak is just fine with your silly self. Now you get your baloney. She laugh Don't be scared. I tip my tea to her and I walk on the other side of the room. Now let's see Love without a name. Let's see what Mary did.
Speaker 4:Baby, there's no need to tell you. As far as I can clearly recall, my love has been here for you, so you don't have to worry at all. I'll sacrifice my time, I'll make sure you say this word, and there's no hard thing to the joy I'll bring. I want to give you all my love. That's all I want to do. And every hour, baby, I don't should have known I've got you. My love is yours. That's all I want to do. And every minute, every hour, baby, I don't should have known I've got you. My love is yours, baby, I'm beneath your love and you've got that touch that I need so much, and I am about to explode Oh-oh-oh-ohuirecompletelycom. Everything you want. I'll be Good luck Down to the last drop, and I'm not gonna stop. That's all I do. And every hour, baby, I don't should have known my love is yours, that's all I want to do?
Speaker 5:Yeah, we love you too. She's right. I don't wanna love her without you. Loving you is all I wanna do.
Speaker 5:Loving you is all I wanna do. Loving you said, loving you Is all that. I all that I wanna do Baby, baby, baby. Loving you I'm loving you Every day, every day. She's all I want. Loving you, loving you Every day, every hour, baby, she's all I want. Don't, no, no more. Don't, no, no more. Loving you, loving you Every day, every day, she's all I want. Loving you, loving you, baby, every day, every day, she's all I want. Loving you, loving you, baby. Loving you, baby, she's all I want.
Speaker 2:Loving you, loving you baby, loving you baby. She's all I want. Don't, no, no more, don't, no more. Loving you baby, loving you baby, loving you baby. Loving you baby. Loving you baby. Loving you baby. Loving you baby. Every day, every day. Don't you love? No, no, don't, no more. Don't you love? No, no, no more. Loving you baby. Loving you, loving you baby, Loving you baby.
Speaker 1:Okay. Moving on, weeks later I remind Victor we had not been out in a while. He says his workload is heavy, especially on Monday and Tuesdays. And now his male cousins want to get together and have a weekly car party. Not a problem, they are close knit group. Just don't forget about me, riku. A couple of weeks later he's not returning Most of my calls and saying things like I did not know you were coming over. I'm always over. What do you mean? We're always together, except for your periodic card games.
Speaker 1:My family's in town for a reunion victim. I expect you to be there. He's making excuses and I'm not hearing any of them. I say very strongly you will be in attendance. I've supported you and your family You're going to support.
Speaker 1:He gets to skating around the room. He admits he's tripping. Yeah, but what you tripping about? Nothing gentle, nothing gentle. Don't start. No, don't you start.
Speaker 1:The next day he sends me flowers, calls me. I cannot, so I hang up. A few days later I call and tell him I'm ready to talk because we ended things very badly. He agreed, so we make plans to talk. Before I get there I receive a call from a distant friend telling me Victor was at the club with some woman. Oh, this was on the night that he was extremely tired and busy Heavy workload huh With my inside boy. Oh, he's doing taxes. So how is he doing taxes in the club? I can't wait to confront him. These red flags are just waving in the wind. After work, I arrived at his house. I did call before I came. I wanted to be respectful because I knew I was about to clown. He attempts to hug me and I go ballistic.
Speaker 1:The next day his grandfather calls me and asks me to talk to him. Give him a chance. So he had to tell him. Well, he asked if, if I would come over and just have a talk. I don't know, grant, I don't know, granddad, I just don't know. You know, I have to kind of calm down when I get worked up like this. Oh, come on, gentry, you don't have to be that way, I know. But this, this is who I am. We all have our way, we all have our ways and I'm not trying to be disrespectful, but just let me settle down a bit To keep drama down.
Speaker 1:When I got home I called him and told him I was over him and needed to get some rest. I don't need to be lied to. We grown, we're adults. Don't play games with me. You were wrong. You were wrong, gentry. You're just being childish. You just need to talk to me person to person. Well, I'll decide when I talk to you and when I won't talk to you. How about that? It's not that deep. He says he cannot believe. I would just up and lay. I told you I would. You're grown and so am I.
Speaker 1:He did not want to take responsibility, so I did not want to listen. No sense in playing games. Yes, I'm hurt and I'm upset, and it takes a while for me to get to hurt and it takes a while for me to get from being upset. So now you can do what you want card games, workload, whatever you need to do. Get it done. We're taking a break and I understand. Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh oh. Baby, since you've been gone, I've been hanging around here lately, but my mind is Jumped up in my car.
Speaker 5:Tried to clear my mind Didn't help me. I kept the moment up. Now, baby, as soon as I jumped into my rut, those memories, those you played, I stomp on the on the radio and there you are, baby. Once again, it's just another sad love song, dracking my brain like crazy, got them all torn up. Baby, it's faster, slow, it doesn't let go. I'm shitting and it's all because of you. Since you've been gone, I keep thinking about you, baby, kiss me all too. Baby, this heart of mine Gives dreaming of you and this crazy way you got had enough. Yeah, soon, as I get you by my hand, I'm in my car again. Ooh, now Just one request from the radio. I'm back in love. Sugar. One look, it's just another sad love song, dracking my brain like crazy. Got them all torn up. Baby, it's faster, slow, it doesn't let go.
Speaker 2:I'm shitting, and it's all because of you. Here come the dreams. There's somebody saying Only take the beat, and then it's up to you. Let's be the only. Take my note.
Speaker 5:I tell you from that radio it's just another lonely love song, Just another sad love song, Dracking my brain like crazy. You know you're never going. I'm going crazy baby.
Speaker 4:It's faster, slow. It doesn't let go.
Speaker 5:I'm shitting and it's all because of you. It's just another sad love song. Dracking my brain like crazy, Got them all torn up, baby. It's just another lonely love song.
Speaker 1:Okay, back to Victor. A year later I run into him and naturally he's with a woman. He stammers attempting to speak. I say hello, keep it moving. He calls me two days later. Are you dating anyone? No and no. He tells me we had a real good thing going. I'm staring at the phone. Are you kidding me? Then he goes on we could have worked it out.
Speaker 1:You did not allow it. Everyone has issues. All couples go through something. Why would you not see me? You wouldn't talk to me. You never forgave me. I speak slow and sternly. Okay, I see it's all on me. I throw my head back, take a deep breath and say my shoulders can be all the blame. I hang up and walk away shaking my head.
Speaker 1:I meet Beth for cocktails. Tell her about this conversation. Victor and I were good. We're not good anymore. We're not seeing each other anymore. Everyone knows Beth grants.
Speaker 1:I hate to lie, but it's to look on your face. But you should know once a cheater, always a cheater. Now, beth, I really don't believe that. That's an old adage and I hear it. But people can change. That much I do know. I'm just not ready to deal with it right now. You have to want to change. You have to want to mend your fences. She's trying to perk me up. I roll my eyes.
Speaker 1:I'm not joined at the hip with a man. I'm not defined by one. When the right time comes along, things will happen. Most guys I meet want me to adjust to them. They don't want to adjust to me. I think we need to compromise at some point in time. That's just me. Am I wrong for that? No, you're not wrong, but you know you can be stubborn. Thanks for the support, beth, thanks for all of your support. Girl, you know I got you. Yeah, you got me. I just want you to be happy. I know, I know, and that's what I'm trying to do. Then I meet Quentin.
Speaker 1:Quentin and I met at a local art gallery. Someone told me about the event. I reluctantly went, especially when my co-workers had to buy out at the last minute. The gallery was quaint, clean, nice pieces of African art. I was not familiar with any of the artists. The owner gave a nice introduction, stating several other pieces were from local artists and some were unknown. Some were known.
Speaker 1:Quentin and I bumped into each other. He apologized, no problem. He smiled and he had all his teeth introduced himself told me who he was and what he did. He was a freelance photographer. Well, that's sweet. I introduced myself. We chatted, he found out I was an instructor. He enjoyed his independent photojournalist but he wanted to strike out and do some more things Getting new clientele, broaden his brand. All I hear is wah, wah, wah. I don't mean to be corny, but he was really nice. He was really nice and I need to get myself together, quentin says laughing. I did not know you were Italian. Why do you say that? Isn't that Italian dressing on your salad? Yes, it is. I got to counter because I've got to get my head back in the game. It is not there. I don't know. Maybe I shouldn't be talking to anyone at this point in time. I just shouldn't. Let's see when are we going with this one. Let's play a little summertime to kind of get us out of this funk of getting Drums please.
Speaker 6:I'm going to be a little bit out of control. What about a groove that moves romance? Give me a soft, subtle mix and if it ain't broken, don't try to fix it. And think of the summers of the past, adjust the face and let the alpine blast. Pop in my CD and let me run around and put your car on cruise and lay back.
Speaker 6:Summertime School is out and this is sort of a buzz, but back then I didn't really know what it was. But now I see what happens, the way that people respond to summer madness. The weather is hot and girls are dressing less and checking out the fellas to tell them who's best Riding around in your Jeep or your Benzos or in your Nissan sitting on the Renzo's. Back in Philly we be out in the park.
Speaker 6:A place called the plateau is where everybody go, guys out hunting and girls doing likewise, honking at the honey in front of you with the light eyes. She's turning around to see what you be. It's like the summers of natural aphrodisiac and with a pen and pad I can pose this round to hit you when you get you equipped for the summertime. Summertime, the weather is hot and girls are dressing less and checking out the fellas to tell them who's best. Hop in the water plug just for old times sake, break to your crib. Change clothes once more. The weather is hot and girls are dressing less and checking out the fellas to tell them who's best. The weather is hot and girls are dressing less and checking out the fellas to tell them who's best.
Speaker 4:The weather is hot and girls are dressing less and checking out the fellas to tell them who's best.
Speaker 1:The weather is hot and girls are dressing less and checking out the fellas to tell them who's best. He has that Shamar Moore. Look, he wears hair short Really handsome guy. He wasn't stuck on his cell, he worked flexible hours so he was contracted. At one time he worked nine to five and he said these last few years he comes home in the middle of the day, take a three, four hour break and goes back to work. I would often tease him If you had to do nine to five, you'd probably jump out the window. Yep, I probably would, because I've gotten used to this. I like this. It works for me. I was laid off one time, never thought I'd find another job, but this one was perfect for me. I can do my freelance photography and work my real job, so that means I have dual income coming in.
Speaker 6:It's great.
Speaker 1:That's good. I think a lot of people need to think about things like that. Quentin attended a vanquish with me. He was very complimentary of me and how I looked and dress. It was our first plan Dressy a fader. He loved my medium thick hair. During the evening we just chatted up. When we arrived we made our introductions. I was on program to introduce the guest speaker. That was my first guest speaker. I was on program to introduce the guest speaker. I was on program to introduce the guest speaker. I was on program to introduce the guest speaker. That went well.
Speaker 1:After that portion of the program was over, we mingled. He went to get us something to drink. We were walking together and this young lady came up to him, stopped him, smile, introduced herself. He said okay and pointed to me to let her know he was with someone. She didn't take the bait. She didn't take the bait. She didn't take the bait. I moved up a few steps from them so that they could talk, but it was obvious he was uncomfortable with the conversation. I just stood and smiled and she continued to flirt. Obviously for flirting. It was really kind of comical after a while. It was really kind of comical after a while.
Speaker 1:He looked questionable and confused. I heard him say let me get back to my date. Enjoy your evening. He tells me I don't know her. I said it was obvious, but you made an impression on her. Wherever she knows you from, he said she seems like she really knew me. But she's not my type. We never dated. You don't have to explain to me, sir. You're a grown man. You do whatever you want to do. Wherever you two met, you made an impression. You have got to concede to that. He said I am confused, it's cool, it's cool. You owe me no explanation, but I believe you Because the look on your face told the entire story. We ate, dance. It really had an enjoyable time. It took me home and we said I could buy it. I had a fun evening. I hadn't had that much fun in a very long time. Now let's say I don't think this is going to be my forever love or my everlasting love. But let's see what Natalie Cole has to say about it.
Speaker 5:This will be an everlasting love. This will be the one I've waited for. This will be the first time anyone has loved me.
Speaker 4:I'm so glad you found me in time and I'm so glad that you've rectified my mind.
Speaker 5:This will be an everlasting love for me.
Speaker 4:Love in you is kind of wonderful, because you've shown me just how much you care. You've given me the thrill of a lifetime and made me believe you've got more friends to spare. This will be an everlasting love, and yes it will. Now You've got a lot of sunshine into my life.
Speaker 5:You've filled me with happiness I never knew. You gave me more joy than I ever dreamed of.
Speaker 4:And no one. No one can take the place that you will.
Speaker 5:This will be you and me. Yes, I'm we eternally.
Speaker 4:Hugging and squeezing and kissing and pleasing together forever, forever, forever, whatever. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, you and me, so long as I'm living, true love I'll be given to you, I'll be certain, because you're so deserving, hey, so so deserving, you're so deserving, yeah, yeah, yeah, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love.
Speaker 1:From now on, from now on, from now on, from now on, From now on, from now on, from now on, from now on, from now on, from now on, from now on. Okay, that was, um. Happiness heard in healing From the man's perspective. I did not read that portion. I skipped around a lot because I want you guys to. If you're interested, please go to my website, cpwbookshelf, and pick up a copy. It's by Louise Garrett. I've enjoyed reading it. It's comical, it's real life.
Speaker 1:We're about to close, but we're going to close with a song by Tonya, and it's Make Me Over. So there is never too late, you know, for God to do a work in any of us, okay. So, um, if you're at that point when you feel like you need God to make you over, just ask Him, Just meditate on the song, and we're going to close with a prayer. Lord God, we just thank you for just being God all by yourself. Thank you for you, um, for just being with us, for being a keeper. Lord God, we thank you for Jesus, that great shepherd, the sheep who died so that we may live. Lord, whatever the needs are for your people, please meet them at the point of their need. Lord, these and other things we ask you in your Son Jesus' name. And here comes Tonya.
Speaker 6:Is anybody want the Lord to make Him over? Just begin to celebrate Jesus.
Speaker 5:So, um, if you're at that point when you feel like you need God to make you over, just begin to celebrate Jesus. Okay, so um if you're at that point when you feel like you need. God to make you over. Just begin to celebrate Jesus. Is anybody's prayer out there tonight?
Speaker 6:Somebody out there sing, it come on.
Speaker 5:Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on.
Speaker 2:Somebody out there sing, it come on.
Speaker 6:Somebody out there sing, it come on.
Speaker 5:Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on.
Speaker 4:Somebody out there sing, it come on.
Speaker 2:Somebody out there sing it. Come on. Somebody out there sing it, come on. Somebody out there sing it. Come on, make me over again, over again, Make me over again, do it again, make me over again, do it again, make me over again, over again, make me over again, over again.
Speaker 1:Thank you everyone. I really appreciate your time that you have on Spent with me. I hope you enjoy the read. I hope you enjoy the music. Now let's have a good night, thank you.
Speaker 2:Thank you.