Vehicles of Compassion

Vehicle of Compassion: a person who willingly exemplifies the compassion of Jesus Christ through acts of service.



Erin N. Johnson

Erin was born in Oklahoma City, OK on August 31, 2005. She is the youngest of three siblings. Her parents, Pastor Darron and Mrs. Erika Johnson, moved the family from Oklahoma City when she was 2 years old. Erin has studied in a variety of classrooms, including homeschool, public and charter schools. She currently lives in Baltimore, MD and is in the 5^th grade. Her favorite classes are Reading and Science. She’s won the Terrific Kid Award and was on the Dean’s List for an entire academic year. Although she was on the swim team for the last two years, this year she is training with a track and field coach. She intends to study Science at Spelman College.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?
 
Erin N. Johnson: I show compassion like Jesus when I help my friends. By helping others clean up their messes and even helping younger kids with their school lessons, I know I am doing what Jesus would do.

fHtW: Using the phrase "Life is challenging. Life is good. Life is abundant." describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

ENJ: I struggled through a difficult series of questions during a test. I did not remember how to answer the questions and the teacher could not help me. I didn’t think I was going to be able to finish in the given time, but I prayed, asked for God’s help, and persevered. I did the best I could. In the end, I passed the test with flying colors. In that moment, I understood: Life is challenging. Life is good. Life is abundant!

Belinda V. Little 

My name is Belinda Vanessa Little. I am a mother of 3 wonderful children ages 22, 20, and 9, and despite only being 41, I am a grandmother to my pride and joy, Ava Rose. I have been married to a magnificent God-fearing man, Alex Little, since February 2006. 

I was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma with 3 siblings. I graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1992. I have a B.S. in Business Administration from Columbia College and a Masters in Human Resources Management.

I have been living in St. Charles County since 2006 and prior to that I lived in Jefferson City, Missouri for 10 years. That’s where I met my friend, Malkia (and so many other great people). Currently, I enjoy serving as a Director for Human Resources for St. Charles County.

Since May 2015, I ventured into entrepreneurship as an It Works!^® Distributor, after being a loyal customer for 3 months. My goal is distribute It Works!^® full-time from home (or anywhere) within the next 3 years. Other leaders within the company have done it time and time again, so why not me?!

My hobbies include reading, traveling, and riding my motorcycle. I belong to an all-female motorcycle club and we have a ball traveling from state-to-state on our 2 wheels.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?
 
Belinda V. Little: I have always been a very caring person, willing to lend an ear without judgment. My grandmother instilled in me the thought that if you have it, then you can give to any child in need (i.e., food, clothing, shelter, etc.). I continue that practice because you never know what someone is going through at home.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful life lessons you've learned from reading the post?

BVL: My favorite blog posts are always the Black History Month trivia questions. I have learned about so many people in Black history. Malkia always highlights interesting people for us to learn about instead of the typical ones we learn about in school.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed. 

BVL: I believe my faith was challenged when I was around age 8. My mom suffers from many mental health issues including (but not limited to) schizophrenia, bipolar, and manic depression. When I was in third grade, she attempted suicide. She did not succeed, but after being released from the hospital, my mom burned down the home we lived in. At that point, my grandmother was granted full custody of me, my older brother and sister, and my younger brother. My grandmother wasn’t working and her only sources of income were her social security check and compensation for taking care of us. She also received Food Stamp benefits. My grandmother couldn’t even drive and we did not have a vehicle. Briefly, the five of us lived in the garage adjacent to the portion of the house that was still intact until my grandmother qualified for housing. It is an understatement for me to say that God provided our every need and desire! My grandmother made sure we had a cooked meal every day—physically observing empty cupboards and a bare refrigerator, we never went hungry. Our house was full of fun and laughter. 

All four of us graduated from high school, and two of us went on to receive advanced degrees. From Hell to Win, we are doing well and although my grandmother has gone on to Heaven, my siblings and I don’t take anything for granted. We have an incredibly tight bond and despite what our mother has put us through throughout the years, we still respect her because that is what my grandmother taught us.

Business Information
It Works!^® Independent Distributor
Website: www.isparkleskinnywraps.com 
E-mail: sparkle.slrmc@gmail.com
Phone: 636-579-5626
Instagram: @B3lindaLittle 

What is It Works!^® you ask?! It Works!^® is known for its famous “Skinny Wrap” which is now known as our Body Applicator. You can wrap anywhere from the neck down. It Works!^® Ultimate Body Applicator is a non-woven cloth wrap that has been infused with a powerful, botanically-based formula to deliver maximum tightening, toning, and firming results applied to the skin. Expect “ultimate” results within as little as 45 minutes with results progressively getting better over the next 72 hours. During this time, you are encouraged to drink half your body weight in ounces of water to flush out the icky stuff the wrap is breaking down. Therefore, it’s not a temporary water loss applicator. The results last! 1 wrap is a treat. 4 is a treatment. 12 is a procedure. Everyone is different and the number of wraps will vary.

It Works!^® is so much more! There are many health, wellness, and beauty items. We have a skin care line, supplements to aid in weight loss, dietary supplements, stretch mark removal cream, hair, skin and nail vitamins, and defining gel that reduces the appearance of cellulite, just to name a few. I’m enthusiastic about our products and the business opportunity.

Gary W. White

I am Gary White, who for the most part likes to maintain a low profile and would prefer not to be featured in the spotlight. But, here I am at the request of Malkia. It’s difficult to “say no” to daughter (only child) Malkia, who is so endearing.

I was born and raised in Jefferson City, Missouri, the first of two children of Phyllis White, a single mother. Our immediate household comprised of Phyllis (mother), June (sister), Minnie (grandmother) and myself. I was introduced to Christianity at an early age by family via Second Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). My early education was in the Jefferson City public school system and later years from Lincoln University, located in Jefferson City, also. Along with perfect attendance and good academics, I graduated from high school and college with honors. While at Lincoln U, I was among the student leaders in student government, fraternity (Omega Psi Phi) and ROTC (Cadet Brigade Commander). I received my Bachelor of Science (Mathematics) degree and Second Lieutenant Commission (Distinguished Military Graduate) in June 1966. After serving two years of active duty in the United States Army (Military Intelligence) in Germany during the Vietnam-era War, I began my corporate career employed with the IBM Corporation in St. Louis, MO, where I worked as a Systems Engineer for twenty-four years and early retirement. Concurrently, I served in the US Army Reserve until 1994 achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. I met my wife, Jeanette (Robinson), while students at Lincoln University and we later married in 1969 and lived in St. Louis ever since. To our union was born our sunshine, pride and joy, daughter Malkia. Jeanette and I are long-term active members of Centennial Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). As a working retiree, I served as property administrator for the National Benevolent Association (Christian Church Disciples of Christ) and currently serve as Community Manager of Hylton Point Apartments (managing agent company, Lutheran Senior Services), an older adult residential community in St. Louis. Jeanette and I reside in Chesterfield, MO and Malkia resides in Atlanta, GA.

I am grateful and thankful to God (family, friends, even strangers) for my journey! To God be the glory for the things He has done!

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Gary W. White: I believe that God gifted me with a servant heart. I think on these things…. Whether as a child and Boy Scout who was trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent (to God, faithful in religious duties). Or to work for a company whose belief(s) is respect for the individual, provide the best possible customer service, and the pursuit of excellence. Or to join a faith-based organization whose motto is “what we do best is care.” I believe that God placed me in an environment to serve those who are less fortunate, to provide safe, secure and affordable housing for very/extremely low income individuals and be respectful of their privacy and dignity. Even after seventeen years, I find this experience gratifying and a blessing to be able to serve others (as Jesus commanded).
 
fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful life lessons you've learned from reading the post?

GWW: Although I am inspired by each one of them, the blog which resonates more vividly is the “Good Samaritan” act of kindness to the seemingly homeless woman at the highway exit ramp, A VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- Part III (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/06/vehicle-of-compassion-part-iii.html). Malkia extended her compassion to provide substance to relieve her hungry state, even though the recipient was ungrateful. Much like Malkia, to this day, I try to always have provision in my car to extend to the less fortunate.

fHtW: Using the phrase "Life is challenging. Life is good. Life is abundant.," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

GWW: Life is challenging. I felt insecure because my career goal fell just short of my expectation even after many successes and overcoming many obstacles over the years. Multiple stressors developed to the point of causing me to seek therapeutic counseling available through the employee assistance program (Life is good to have such a benefit). Strong support from my wife helped to encourage me (Life is good to have such a loving mate/partner). Personal prayers and intercessory prayers from others made a difference (Life is good because prayer changes things). A different calling took me on another journey, one that has been fulfilling (Life is abundant). I am certain that God prevailed, just as He always has/will for those who have faith and believe in Him!

Patricia R. Allen

Patricia R. Allen was born on one of the most well-known Army bases in the world, Ft. Knox, Kentucky. However, she considers herself a “Carolina Girl”...(that’s NORTH Carolina)… because that’s where she grew up. A sports lover, she lettered in 3 sports while in high school. Because her first love is music, Patricia was a member of the marching band and show choir while in high school, as well. A blessing of two musically-gifted parents, Patricia began singing solos in the 4^th grade in the Glee Club at her elementary school. Surrounded by so much love and encouragement from her family, at college she co-founded and recorded with the a cappella group, Racial Harmony, and sang in her Wake Forest University Gospel choir, where she was featured as a soloist on both recordings. Patricia has also written and recorded original music with InTown Band from the Atlanta, Georgia area. She has ministered in weddings for 20+ years, funerals, rodeos, special events, and personal concerts. In 2011, she was given the opportunity to sing for the 90^th Birthday celebration for the Civil Rights Icon, Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery. She shared the stage with musical legends from Jennifer Holliday to Lady Tramaine Hawkins to Stevie Wonder. With all that Patricia has experienced in her musical life, she’s the most at peace when she shares her gift singing God’s praises through gospel and religious music. She recognizes the gift that she has been assigned with and is grateful for the opportunity to Thank God publicly for trusting her with the gift of singing.

Patricia is a Meetings and Events Coordinator at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) and enjoys sporting events, good food, and spending quality time with her family and friends. She rejoices and gives God thanks for the blessing of her family and biggest cheering squad – her Mom, Dad, and Brother!

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Patricia R. Allen: Jesus brought Peace to the Land, and He brought peace to chaotic situations. I believe that we should all have and experience peace in our lives. Throughout my life, I have encouraged friends to find peace, in the midst of troubling circumstances. I’ve prayed that those around me would have peace take over their lives, because peace is deeper and more permanent than happiness. I, oftentimes, utilize my vocal instrument and singing opportunities as a way to administer a sense of calmness over my audience.

Jesus listens to our every word. I show the compassion of Jesus when I take the time to listen to others pour out their hearts. Not all are looking for solutions, but just an ear to hear what they are going through or thinking at that time. Jesus is our Friend. I am confident that I am a wonderful friend. Unlike some, I don’t take being a good friend lightly. There are several friends in my life that I consider family because of the years we’ve shared and/or the close bonds that we’ve formed. My friends would say that I don’t “sugar-coat” much and they appreciate that about me.

I, also, believe that I exemplify the compassion of Jesus when I offer Words of Encouragement to people I encounter, sometimes complete strangers. You never know what your kind and encouraging words will do for a person.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful life lessons you've learned from reading the post? 

PRA: My favorite From Hell to Win blog post is “Wait for the Win” (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/11/wait-for-win.html) because it voiced some of the very same questions I have for my life. I was reminded to ‘Be Still’ and continue to be patient while I wait. It reassured me that if I continue to wait on God to move in these areas in my life, He will blow my mind with the many blessings that He has in store for me.
 

The courageous post “The Valley - Chapter 2” (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/09/valley-chapter-two.html) affected me in an unexpected manner. I know that everyone goes through struggles in life. But, this post identified that we must be sensitive to others no matter how different or similar their struggles are from ours. You can’t take for granted how deep a person’s difficulties affect them. While you may be experiencing the same circumstances, you are oftentimes unaware of the level of hurt a friend or acquaintance is feeling.

Finally, “Follow the Spirit: Self-Control” (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2012/08/follow-spirit-self-control.html) has helped me on various occasions, even at work. Read it, and you’ll know what I’m talking about.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed. 

PRA: Sometimes, you never know how or when God is going to move in your life, but you are confident that He WILL move.

I’ve experienced that From [the] Hell of a 9-month unemployment season, God will take care of you--emotionally and mentally, help you pay off credit card debt, provide ALL of your needs, and allow you To Win by Creating a job for you when no position like yours ever existed within a certain department, then being able to share His Goodness, Mercy, and Faithfulness with people who need to be encouraged.


Business Information
L’Agent Creatif, LLC (The Creative Agent) 
Vocalist, Corporate Concierge Services, Party and Event Services and Consultations
Email: thecreativeagent@hotmail.com

Alexis Dennard

My name is Alexis Dennard. I was born in South Texas, moving several times during my childhood before settling in the St. Louis area in 1986. I am the 2nd child and oldest daughter of Harry and Patricia Penelton. I attended Hampton University, receiving a Bachelors of Science in Marketing. Upon graduation, I worked for Hecht's Department Stores in the DC area. After three years, I had the opportunity to move to the Dallas area and work for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company (now AT&T) in 1998. Throughout my career I have served in Call Center Operations, Account and Project Management, Retail, Customer Service and Chief of Staff roles. My husband, Tim, and I just celebrated 11 years of marriage on June 15th and we have the joy of being parents to our only child Kamari. I am an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and involved in many volunteer activities. I enjoy traveling, reading, attending jazz concerts, and fellowshipping with friends and family.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Alexis Dennard: My mom shared with me a story of when I was a little girl about being a helper. I have always felt a sense of being a servant. Jesus was not only a leader, but He humbled himself to be a servant to others. Everything I do is in the service of others, whether helping with youth through Big Brothers Big Sisters, to volunteering with Susan G. Komen in their county office. I believe to exhibit Christ-like behavior, we must at the core have a true sense of compassion for each other. This means caring about the welfare of people without expecting anything in return.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful life lessons you've learned from reading the post?

AD: I enjoyed the August 4, 2012 blog post entitled Follow the Spirit: Peace (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2012/08/follow-spirit-peace.html). Peace is required to live a good and abundant life. Because I live my life as a servant, trying to be all things to all people and trying to "fix" everything, has caused some instances of stress. When your spirit is not in a state of peace, emotions can overrun you, causing a myriad of other issues such as strained relationships and health issues. In the blog post, the prayer is that stress be replaced by serenity, so I often reflect on the Serenity Prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr:

God grant me the serenity

to accept the things I cannot change;

courage to change the things I can;

and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;

Enjoying one moment at a time;

Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;

Taking, as He did, this sinful world

as it is, not as I would have it;

Trusting the He will make all things right

if I surrender to His Will;

That I may be reasonably happy in this life

and supremely happy with Him

Forever in the next.

Amen.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

AD: There was a period in my marriage, where my faith was challenged. I felt I was carrying a lot of weight on my shoulders. My husband is a great person and wonderful provider, but I felt like I was doing a lot by myself. Between working a full-time job, homework, groceries, cleaning, cooking, calendar juggling and everything else, I was exhausted and felt, at times, underappreciated. I started to have feelings of resentment, anger and the like, which were certainly not of God. I strayed away from my consistent Bible studying and daily prayer time, and I could feel it reflecting in my life. Frankly, I was just tired! This caused disagreements about the littlest things, which only aggravated the situation. I finally got to a place where I felt my spirit was broken. I remember sitting in my bedroom and crying out to the Lord to just HELP ME! I knew the first step was to recognize I needed to get the help I needed by talking to someone. This gave me the empowerment to start working on my marriage. We sought wise counsel to work through our issues. We developed a better sense of communication. I got back into a more dedicated, routine study life, and most important, I let go of the emotions and replaced them with peace. Now, I am not gonna say that this all happened overnight, but From Hell to Win, I let God guide me through each day. Life is good and I am truly blessed; praise the Lord, our heavenly Father and Saviour!


Kimberlyn S. Sinkfield

Pastor Kimberlyn S. Sinkfield was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and she is the only child of Julius and Bernice Sinkfield. She attended Frederick Douglass High School and is a 1991 graduate of Clark Atlanta University (CAU) where she received a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. While at CAU, Pastor Kimberlyn interned at Coca-Cola Trading Company and became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. After graduation, she worked at the corporate offices of major companies such as The Home Depot and The HoneyBaked Ham Company of Georgia. When she accepted her call to ministry and began seminary in 2007, she was in the midst of a career in Software Quality Assurance Management at Turner Broadcasting Systems.

Pastor Kimberlyn received her Master of Divinity degree with honors from Gammon Theological Seminary in May 2012. While at Gammon, she was an active member of the ITC Chorus, a member of Theta Phi International Honors Society and a Student Representative to the Gammon Board of Trustees. She also received the Isaac R. Clark Preaching Award in 2011.

Pastor Kimberlyn's call scripture comes from 2 Timothy 4:2-5 CEB, "Preach the word. Be ready to do it whether it is convenient or inconvenient. Correct, confront, and encourage with patience and instruction. There will come a time when people will not tolerate sound teaching. They will collect teachers who say what they want to hear because they are self-centered. They will turn their back on the truth and turn to myths. But you must keep control of yourself in all circumstances. Endure suffering, do the work of a preacher of the good news, and carry out your service fully." Pastor Kimberlyn is "Embracing the Journey" with expectancy of all that God has for her and those God uses her to minister to through word, song and witness.

Pastor Kimberlyn is currently working on her fourth unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) as a Chaplain Resident at Metro Transitional Center (MTC) for Women through the Care & Counseling Center of Georgia. She has served as the pastor in charge at Calvary United Methodist Church since June 24, 2012.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Kimberlyn S. Sinkfield: To date, I have most recently been involved in exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ as the Chaplain at MTC. The residents there come from one of the four women's prisons in Georgia. I have the opportunity to walk with these ladies as they transition from prison to working in society to being released to go home. I help them come to grips with why they committed the crime that brought them to prison and how they can move forward by forgiving themselves and those who may have hurt them along the way. They are children of God and I am blessed to witness the transformation that some of them make as they receive the love and active involvement of Jesus Christ in their lives.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful life lessons you've learned from reading the post? 

KSS: My favorite From Hell to Win blog post is All Aboard the Self-Improvement Shuttle -- 1st Stop: Self-Examination (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/04/all-aboard-self-improvement-shuttle-1st.html) from April 2011. During that time, I was recovering from a failed relationship and I was in the process of self-examination, looking at how I contributed to the relationships dysfunction. This blog post was a reminder that any change for the better has to be an inside job and by that point I was in the midst of my own pity party. The post encouraged me to stay committed to the process with God as my guide. My favorite quote from the post is, "You have my full attention, Lord! Help me carefully examine my past. Expose my hurts and teach me how to get better. Reveal my God-given talents and help me stop comparing myself to others. Unmask my wicked associates and assist me in discovering God-fearing friends. Train my thought-life to "demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of" You; train me to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to" Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5, NIV)."

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed. 

KSS: My "From Hell to Win" testimony occurred when I lost my job in 2010. I was working full-time and going to seminary part-time. I knew the time would come when I would have to leave corporate America to pursue full-time ministry. I hoped I could continue working until I graduated from seminary, but that was not the plan God had for me. My hell began when I was released from my career of 11 plus years with the same employer. Now the faith that I had been teaching others about and praying with people about was needed in my own life. Now the rubber of what I believed was meeting the road of real life. I had seen God provide for others who were released from their corporate jobs, but was He going to do the same for me?! Well, of course He did, He is no respecter of persons--what He did for them, He was delighted to do for me, if I believed. My win came when God provided for my every need. I never missed a bill or mortgage payment, I was able to go to school full-time, and I graduated from seminary owing no one. My God is faithful, His timing is perfect and He will do just what He said.

Ministry Information

Calvary United Methodist Church

1471 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd.

Atlanta, GA 30310

Website: www.calvaryumcatlanta.org

Twitter: @PastorKimberlyn

A. Jeanette White

Jeanette White is the second daughter of four born to Alma Keys and A.C. Robinson in Seattle, Washington and reared in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Along with her sisters, Jeanette participated in the integration of Tulsa Public Schools graduating from Tulsa Central High School in 1962. She received her baccalaureate degree from Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri in Music Therapy and worked as a Music Therapist at Anoka State Hospital, Anoka, Minnesota. From 1967 to 1969, Jeanette served as a resident advisor for the Omaha Women's Job Corps center, Omaha, Nebraska. She moved to St. Louis in 1969 where she married Gary W. White at Centennial Christian Church where she has remained a faithful and loyal member. Her first employment position was with the YWCA, Wheatley Branch, as Housing and Counseling Director. In 1972, after taking leave from distinguished work with young women, she entered graduate school at St. Louis University and attained her Masters of Social Work degree. Jeanette began her career with Provident Counseling (formerly known as Family and Children's Services of Greater St. Louis) as a family therapist. After several years with Provident Counseling, a new direction was taken. Jeanette decided to dedicate this time of her life as a full time mother, and community volunteer. Jeanette is the proud and blessed mother of Malkia S. White of Atlanta, Georgia.

In 1994, Jeanette continued her service to children as a social worker with St. Louis Public Schools and proudly serves the children of Compton-Drew Investigative Learning Center Middle School and has been assigned to several other schools in the district over the years.

In addition to her remarkable work in school social work, recognized as the 2010 Social Worker of the Year for St. Louis Public Schools, Jeanette has served her community through participation in a variety of professional organizations such as the National Association of Social Workers, the National Association of Black Social Workers, and the School Social Work Association of America. Jeanette shared her time and talent through volunteerism with Ladue Schools and served on organizational boards, including the ECHO Board, Scholarship Foundation Board, the Olive Branch Board, Wheatley Branch Committee on Administration, and the YWCA Metropolitan Board. Jeanette served as board president during the construction of Centennial Plaza Apartments and Hylton Point Apartments, housing for senior citizens. Jeanette continues to serve her community as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Her love and dedication to music has led to great fulfillment while serving as a charter member of the St. Louis Symphony InUnison Chorus. Jeanette has been a dedicated member of the chorus, sharing her gifts and love of song with the St. Louis community and beyond. There is much left for her to do as she ponders retirement.... Her faith in God enables and sustains her in all that she does.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

A. Jeanette White: Each day is begun with a "thank you" to God for giving me another chance to help somebody and make a positive difference in life. I know that He is always with me. I have never doubted that. Working daily with children and adolescents in St. Louis Public Schools requires continuous prayer and the "full armor" of God.

My duties vary from being an empathetic listener, sharing and applying social work skills and knowledge, to imparting wisdom gained from work and life experiences with the clients I serve. As a member of the St. Louis Public Schools Crisis Team, I respond to critical and urgent situations affecting students, families, and staff. The crisis could be death, destruction or danger, something that creates disequilibrium in the regular order of the school environment. Our goal is to restore the balance. Daily activities include counseling, consultation, collaboration and intervening where needed. Children's issues and difficulties are usually related to personal circumstances or the circumstances of significant others in their lives. Children's hurts and pains are a reflection of the hurts and pains of society. Children are not fully equipped to handle the enormous burdens they sometimes have to bear. I pray that in some way I am of help to them.

Beyond job expectations, one cares about the pain of others and tries to help a person realize the power that lies within them. God has given each of us all that we need to survive. Sometimes a person just needs a kind word, a smile, encouragement or reassurance to keep going until life's circumstances are better.

As an elder of the church, nothing can be more rewarding than visiting with a courageous sufferer or an enthusiastic and faithful believer. It is an opportunity to witness for Christ. You visit with them intending to uplift and discover you have received a blessing! Now that is what I call joy! 

Caring about others is a lifestyle. It isn't something you think about. You just do what you know you ought to do. I have been blessed by the wonderful people in my life who have been there for me. How could I not be there for somebody else?! My parents were my first role models. They took us to church and were always helping and sharing their gifts with others. My parents, Sunday School teachers, public school teachers, college professors and professional mentors were encouraging and nurturing. They told me "you can" and I believed them. When I reflect upon the kindness and generosity of others shown to me, I know that that is the way God planned it. He wants us to pass the love along to someone else. It's not the big things that one can do for others or being in the spotlight that is most rewarding. It's bringing a smile to a child's face or a sparkle in their eyes, wiping a tear away or holding their hand, that is rewarding. At times, it is working quietly behind the scenes to make things happen for others that the greatest rewards are present.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful life lessons you've learned from reading the post?

AJW: Perhaps your first blog post, Anyone In Need of Balance (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2010/08/anyone-in-need-of-balance.html) is my favorite. You possess a boldness to stand up for Jesus and declare to the world that He is the foundation of your faith. I was struck by your transparency--to share with so many others a personal struggle. I'm from a period of yesterday that said, keep your pain hidden. But in sharing with others the journey from a personal hell to a personal win is a testimony of faith in God. Wow! I was impressed then and I still am. Each prayer has had a special message for me. It has helped me to clarify my purpose and to know that the challenges in life are lessons to remind me of God's faithfulness and to strengthen me for even greater challenges.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

AJW: The first significant challenge was the death of my mother. She died just a few days before my twenty-first birthday. My mother and I had a very special relationship. She was my mother and then my friend. She wanted her daughters to go to college and graduate so that we could take care of ourselves and not be dependent on someone else to do so. Her passing was just a little more than a month before my college senior finals (one of my younger sisters, Marilyn Sue, passed only three months prior to my mother's passing). I was in a deep depression. I often said that I ate my way through depression. I earned my degree and went on to a "good job," just as my mother hoped and prayed for me. Life had twists and turns, but I've come to know the abundance of God's blessings.

The most difficult challenge has been the betrayal of a friend and a loved one. To become aware and learn that what you thought to be reality, really wasn't, can shake your foundation. Betrayal is an intentional and deliberate action with or without conscience or regard to the damage it does to a relationship of trust. That experience is still a challenge. Years of ups and downs in life with God by my side, has made the challenge bearable.

I acknowledged Jesus as my Lord and Savior at age seven. I believe that each challenge in life has a lesson to be learned. I look for the lesson and try to continue growing, knowing God is with me all the way. Faith in God is the "good"--hope in a difficult situation. He said He would never leave me or forsake me and that has been true in my life "from Hell to Win." Knowing in the end that you are on the winning side...God is the abundance of life and it does not get any better than that!   

Tiffany Danielle Kinkead

My name is Tiffany Danielle Kinkead and I am a two year survivor of breast cancer. I'm 28 years old and was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. I like to say that my husband, a New York native, fell in love with my southern wit and charm! I graduated from Albany State University in 2008 and began my career as a pediatric nurse. My grandmother was a nurse by profession and it had been a long time dream of mine to follow in her footsteps and become a registered nurse. I have always loved working with children, so it was only logical for me to work for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. I got a job at Egleston before finishing nursing school, and I've been there ever since. I can honestly say that I love my job!


From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ? 

Tiffany Danielle Kinkead: As I stated earlier, I am a pediatric nurse. Working with my little patients is such a rewarding experience. Every day I encounter parents and children who are suddenly thrown into a situation that they have no control over and sometimes all it takes is a smile and kind words to put them at ease. I wear the hat of nurse but also that of supporter, teach, counselor, advocate, mentor, confidant, and friend. The field of nursing is one of compassion and selflessness, and the same can be said of the ministry of Jesus Christ. We care for you, walk with you, and love you. 

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post? 

TDK: There are many blog posts on this site that I find relatable, and am able to gain strength and insight from which makes it hard to select just one. Stepping outside of this question a bit, I have enjoyed reading about the various individuals selected as Vehicles of Compassion. It is wonderful to read about other men and women of God and being able to walk with them through their stories of From Hell to Win. Just making our way through life with faith in God is hard, but doing without God is even harder. Thank you for providing this blog as another resource of encouragement.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

TDK: I got married in April 2010 and was on top of the world. I had a great career, wonderful new husband, and life was great. Then in August 2010, I found a lump in my right breast in the shower one morning. I kept telling myself that it was nothing. I was young and healthy, but I knew it was important for me to have the expertise of a doctor. After two consults, an ultrasound, an MRI, and a needle biopsy, I found myself sitting on the edge of a cold exam table hearing the words that no woman wants to hear, "You have breast cancer." It was the lowest point of my life. The tears fell, the fog closed in, and I felt hopeless. But then something happened. My doctor and nurse hugged me and told me that everything was going to be alright. "You WILL get through this!" My nurse was a breast cancer survivor, and just before leaving the office that day she gave me her survivor pin to wear. Throughout my journey, which included chemotherapy every 3 weeks for 18 weeks, and several surgeries, I held onto the pin she gave me. I was a survivor! It didn't matter that the tumor could be seen on my scans or felt by my doctors.

I prayed that God would completely heal me and I had faith that He would do just that. On February 9, 2011, I had a bilateral mastectomy (both breasts removed) and sentinel lymph node dissection (checking the lymph nodes closest to the tumor for cancer cells). It was on that day God brought me From Hell to Win; my reports came back great and I was officially cancer free! In fact, they couldn't even find the tumor in my breast!

Today, I'm still thanking God, along with all my family and friends for their support. I am a survivor!


Susan McGhee

Susan McGhee, artistic director of the Academy of the Arts, received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College. She started ballet, tap, and jazz at the age of three and became a principal dancer for the Albany Ballet Theater. Susan was a member of Tennessee State University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College dance and cheerleading squads. She also performed in the Opening & Closing Ceremonies during the 1996 Olympic Games.  Susan, the former Ms. Black International 1999-2000 and Ms. Black Georgia International 1998-1999, has performed all over the world during her reign. Her tap performance, “Super Bad” sung by the late James Brown and choreographed by Beau Foister received national recognition. She has taught dance in several school systems and performing arts programs throughout Georgia.

At the age of 21, Susan opened her first performing arts academy specializing in dance, music, theater, modeling, cheerleading, liturgical dance, gymnastics, African dance, karate and more for all ages. Her choreography has won numerous national awards. Later, she became the director/founder of the Trendsetters Dance Company, Inc. She also started an organization to help fund art programs for underprivileged children. Her students have appeared in sitcoms, videos, commercials, and starred in major motion picture films. They have also performed with Mariah Carey, LL Cool J, Romeo, and were finalists at the Apollo Theater in New York. Susan was a ballroom dancer for Tyler Perry’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman and the choreographer for the CW’s sitcom, Vampire Diaries.

Susan is a pageant coach and has taught contestants all over the world. Her areas of expertise include interview preparation, talent preparation, and on-stage presentation. She has been featured numerous times in Pageantry Magazine and other publications. Susan has developed a national reputation for her fierce coaching techniques and her ability to bring out each contestant’s personal best. Susan also has judged hundreds of pageants and choreographed many opening numbers.

Susan opened her second performing arts location in Conyers in 2005. She is also the owner of Sue-Sue’s TuTu Boutique in Stone Mountain and Conyers and the owner of Footloose Dancewear in Snellville, Georgia. Susan is a certified etiquette instructor, teaching social, business, and dining etiquette.

Susan is committed to educating students in the art of dance by giving them the opportunity to express themselves using the universal language of movement, to build self-confidence and to master self-discipline. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Her philosophy of life (in the words of that old familiar song): If I can help somebody, as I pass along, if I can cheer somebody with a word or song, if I can show somebody, they are traveling wrong, then my living shall not be in vain. (Androzzo, Alma Bazel, "If I Can Help Somebody."). 

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ? 

Susan McGhee: I volunteer with many community service organizations in my area. I believe it is important to give back to your community in any way possible. I participate in a monthly feed the homeless program.  I volunteer to teach children whose parents cannot afford dance, etiquette, and other extracurricular activities. I also visit nursing homes to help service the elderly. 

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post? 

SM: There are many blog posts that I feel touched my heart. I really enjoy reading them and feel that it is an essential part of my day!  If I had to narrow it down to one, I would choose the blog titled, Wait For The Win (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/11/wait-for-win.html). It was encouraging because I felt like God was not listening to me. I was waiting for an answer or a sign. I was waiting on God to give me the answers I needed and I wasn’t getting them. After reading the blog, I received His answer. I had to wait and be patient. The answer wasn’t going to be on my time but on God’s time! I had to be still! God takes His time and He does everything right. God is a magnificent God and I had to learn that He knows best and He will do what is best for my life. I have to WAIT for the WIN and when you wait on God, you will always WIN! 

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed. 

SM: I remember when I found out that a close friend had done some terrible things to me. Not only did she hurt me, her conduct hurt my business. I spent a lot of time trying to figure out why someone I have helped and loved, did those terrible things. I didn’t want to cry about it anymore. I was tired of always being the “nice guy!” I wanted to take revenge. I thought of a lot of ways to be vindictive and deceitful but I had to understand that the God I serve would not approve. I realize that those thoughts were not a part of my character and I was a child of God. I prayed and God spoke to my heart. He told me to continue to do His will and be the person that I am—“You continue to help, lift, and love people. There will be adversaries that will come and stand in your way. You will make it” from hell to win “because I am with you every step of the way!”

Business Information

Academy of the Arts
Website: www.thebestdanceschool.com 
Twitter: @dancesusan

Geraldyne M. Holt

Geraldyne Morgan Holt was born on January 1, 1925 to Waymon Morgan and Ruth Harrod Morgan in Newport News, Virginia. "Gerl" as she was called by many was taught about Christ at an early age. Her parents gave her a spiritual foundation that she relied on throughout her life. She gave her life to Christ when joining Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Wendell, North Carolina.

Gerl earned her Bachelors Degree from Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina at the age of nineteen. In June 1946 she married Leon T. Holt and they moved to St. Louis, Missouri. They had one daughter, Sheila Agnes Holt Williams. Gerl loved her family.

Gerl joined Centennial Christian Church in 1950. Singing was one of the joys of her life. Her call to Christian service was demonstrated through her tireless and committed efforts in Sunday School and with the youth at the church. She was a Christian role model and mentor for many. She loved and prayed for her church continuously.

After learning that her daughter was deaf, Gerl earned a Master's Degree in Special Education from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. She taught at Gallaudet School for the Deaf for 44 years. Her love for children and dedication to education can be seen throughout the community. She not only influenced deaf students, but all who came in contact with her were able to partake in her spiritual nurturing while learning from her.

After the death of her daughter in 1979, without hesitation, she took on the role as parent to her grandchildren, Sheila and Waymon. The three of them shared an extremely special bond. She was a devoted wife, mother and daughter. She was a caregiver of her daughter, husband, and mother, all whom preceded her in death. Her joy in recent years was with her great grandchildren (Waymon, Gerald, Vernon, and Christian); she smiled each time they entered the room.

Gerl departed this life on Thursday, January 26, 2012. She leaves to cherish her memories: 2 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and cousins, and extended family members.

(Celebrating the Spirit of Geraldyne Holt, Life's Reflections, obituary written by Sheila & Waymon Williams).

From Hell to Win: In what ways were you involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Geraldyne M. Holt: I usually prayed between 12 midnight and 1 am--lifting you and others up to God, asking for healing and revelations and a word from God, and thanking Him for His answers.

fHtW: What was your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you learned from reading various blog posts?

GMH: Thanks for sending me your Blog Posts. They were inspiring, uplifting and interesting. Your tribute to your mother was beautiful and so true. (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2010/09/she-is-tribute-to-my-mother.html).

I thought more about you as I read your sermonettes. Of course they are inspiring, uplifting and in many ways sometimes challenging. I even laughed as I read.... Sometimes I think they don't talk about laughter enough in the Bible. I read an article about when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. When Jesus saw Lazarus coming out of the tomb with his grave clothes hanging off--Jesus smiled and Lazarus laughed. I think of times there must have been laughter: when Jesus healed the ten lepers and they were jumping for joy; when David danced in the streets when he was praising God; when Jesus turned the water into the best wine--His first miracle. Surely people must have laughed as they praised and thanked God. Sometimes I think we believe the only time we can laugh for joy is at a basketball or football game.

Please continue to send me your messages. They bring joy to my soul.

fHtW: Reflecting on the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

GMH: I've been through deep valleys and dark places in my life but as dark as I felt--I always knew the light would come, that God was there--somewhere, even when I couldn't see Him or feel Him. My heart and soul told me He was there and that He would shine His light on me. I was anxious but I never doubted.

Racheal M. Brooks

¡Soy tan emocionante por haber elegido ser tu Vehiculo de Compasión para el mes de julio! Nací en Havelock, Carolina del Norte y crecí en Fayetteville, Carolina del Norte. Asistía a Westover Senior High School pero me gradué de la Escuela de Ciencias y Matemáticas de Carolina del Norte. Saqué el bachillerato de español de la Universidad Central de Carolina del Norte. Mientras que matriculaba en NCCU, mantenía varias afiliaciones universitarias y profesionales como participación en Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Me gradué de NCCU con la distinción de summa cum laude en tres años y me mudé a Atlanta, Georgia para trabajar como traductora de español, ayudante legal, coordinadora de clientes, instructora privada, maestra de escuela secundaria en una capacidad voluntaria e instructora en un programa de inglés como segundo idioma. Además, saqué una maestría en la literatura española de la Universidad Estatal de Georgia.

Hace cuatro años que enseño cursos universitarios de español para la Universidad Estatal de Georgia, la Universidad Central de Carolina del Norte y la Universidad de San Augustín. Trabajo actualmente como profesora universitaria de español para la Universidad Central de Carolina del Norte y también trabajo para el Programa de Estudiantes Nuevos y Padres Carolinos para la Universidad de Carolina de Norte en Chapel Hill. Además, soy estudiante doctoral en el programa de Investigación Educacional y Análisis Política con una especialización en la administración universitaria en la Universidad Estatal de Carolina del Norte. 

Estoy viviendo feliz y comiendo perdices con my esposo de trece años, Tenahr, y somos los padres orgullosos de un hijo maravilloso y energético que tiene un año, Amihr.

ENGLISH TRANSLATION

I am ecstatic to have been selected as the Vehicle of Compassion for the month of July! I was born in Havelock, North Carolina and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina. I attended Westover Senior High School but graduated from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. I received a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from North Carolina Central University. While attending NCCU, I maintained several campus and professional affiliations including membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I graduated summa cum laude from NCCU in three years and moved to Atlanta, Georgia to work as a Spanish translator, legal assistant, patient coordinator, private tutor, volunteer high school assistant teacher, and English as a Second Language instructor. I also earned a master’s degree in Spanish literature from Georgia State University.

For four years, I have instructed undergraduate Spanish courses at Georgia State University, North Carolina Central University, and Saint Augustine’s College. I am currently a Visiting Lecturer of Spanish at North Carolina Central University and work with the New Student and Carolina Parent Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I am also a doctoral student in the Educational Research and Policy Analysis program with a specialization in Higher Education Administration at North Carolina State University.

I am happily married to my high school sweetheart of thirteen years, Tenahr, and we are the proud parents of one magnificent, energetic, one-year-old son, Amihr.

From Hell to Win: ¿En qué manera has participado en la ejemplificación de la compasión de Jesucristo?

To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Racheal M. Brooks: Cada uno de mis alumnos sabe que pude hablar con su “profesora” en cualquier momento que quiera. Me contenta mucho saber que aunque la mayoría de sus preguntas y preocupaciones que me llaman la atención tratan del vocabulario y la gramática española, en algunas instancias, los estudiantes desean mi consejo para ayudarles con varias situaciones difíciles. Me gusta mucho tener la oportunidad usar mi testimonio personal como una lección que trata del esfuerzo que se puede encontrar cuando pone toda la fe en el Señor en cuanto a los asuntos de la vida. Trato de ser una oyente paciente que el estudiante necesita, y frecuentemente descubro que yo puedo ayudarles reevaluar sus situaciones y encontrar la paz de saber la verdad de las palabras de Filipenses 4:13:

“Todo me puedo en Cristo que me fortalece.”

Each of my students knows that when it comes to speaking with their “professor,” I have a very relaxed open-door policy. It brings me great joy to know that although most of the questions and concerns that are brought to my attention are about Spanish vocabulary and grammar, in some instances, students seek counsel for difficult life situations. I value the opportunity to use my personal testimony as a lesson in the strength that can be found when one learns to fully trust in the Lord with all matters of his or her life. I try my best to be the listening ear that they need, and frequently I discover that I am also able to help them reevaluate their situations and find comfort in knowing that the words in Philippians 4:13 are true each and every day:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

fHtW: ¿Cuál es tu entrada favorita de blog Del Infierno hacia Victoria? ¿Y cuáles son algunas de las lecciones poderosas que has aprendido al leer esta entrada?

What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post?

RMB: Mi entrada favorita tiene que ser la titulada “Equípame” escrita el 25 de agosto de 2010 (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2010_08_01_archive.html). Durante una de las épocas más difíciles de mi vida, tenía la oportunidad de referir a esta entrada y recibir estímulo al decir las promesas que Dios me ha hecho para la vida. Digo estas promesas constantemente cuando empiezo cada día y me toca a recordar que con la ayuda del Señor, ¡siempre voy a triunfar!

My favorite blog post would have to be the one entitled “Equip Me” dated August 25, 2010 (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2010_08_01_archive.html). During one of the most difficult times in my life, I was able to return to this post and received encouragement in professing the promises the God has made for me in my life. I continually speak these promises as I begin each day and am reminded that with God’s help, I will always triumph!

fHtW: Utilizando la frase “Del Infierno hacia Victoria,” describe una instancia en que experimentaste un desafío de fe y Dios la ganó.

Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

RMB: Hace poco tiempo que experimento la lección muy difícil que los parientes son seres humanos también. Aunque frecuentemente asumimos que ellos siempre hacen lo bueno, ellos no siempre logran la gloria igual que los demás. A causa de un desacuerdo, dos miembros muy importantes de mi familia se separaron a sus mismos de mi vida. Hace casi dos años que no me contestan las llamadas, mensajes de texto, ni mis visitas a casa. Sin embargo, pedía al Señor tocar sus corazones y ayudarles darse cuenta que estaban rechazando sus bendiciones. Me sorprendía que esta dificultad me haya cambiado a una persona más fuerte por aprender que el amor de Dios es más que suficiente. El Señor me llevó Del Infiero hacia Victoria cuando me enseñó que debo valorar el amor que me da generosamente y sin condiciones. Dios sinceramente ejemplifica que, “aunque mi padre y mi madre me dejaran, con todo, Jehová me recogerá” (Salmos 27:10). Después de mucho rezo y comunicación, las heridas emocionales y espirituales de nuestra familia están mejorando.

Recently, I have experienced the painful life lesson that one’s family members are human beings as well. Although we frequently assume that they can do no wrong, they fall short of the glory just as much as the rest of us. Due to a misunderstanding, I was separated from the love of two very important members of my family. Nearly two years passed in which my phone calls, text messages, and visits were unanswered and unwelcomed. Nevertheless, I remained prayerful that God would touch the hearts of those individuals and help them to see the blessings they were denouncing. Surprisingly, as a result of this trial, I have become stronger as an individual as I have learned that God’s love is more than enough for me. God brought me From my Hell to Win when He taught me to value the love that he generously and unconditionally gives. He truly exemplifies that, “Though my father and mother forsake me, yet the Lord will take me up” (Psalm 27:10). After much prayer and communication, the emotional and spiritual wounds of our family are healing.

Información profesional / Business Information

Visiting Lecturer of Spanish

Department of Language and Literature

Division of Extended Studies

North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina

rmbrooks@nccu.edu

(919) 530-7203

Graduate Assistant

New Student and Carolina Parent Program

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Doctoral Student

Educational Research and Policy Analysis

Higher Education Administration

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, North Carolina

rmbrook2@ncsu.edu

Paul S. Kish & W. Carl Lietz III

Carl Lietz & Paul Kish
Photo Credit: Malkia S. White

Paul Kish was born in Detroit into a large and noisy Catholic family. He graduated from college in Michigan, came to Georgia for law school, got married and had 2 kids, and got divorced. He has been a criminal defense lawyer since 1984, first as a long-time Federal Public Defender, and since 2006 as a partner with Carl Lietz at the firm of Kish & Lietz.

Carl Lietz lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife Elizabeth and their two boys, Forrest and Mitchell. When he is not chasing his kids around or practicing law, Carl enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time outside. Carl and his law partner, Paul Kish, have known each other for over 15 years, and for the last 6 years, they have been practicing federal criminal defense together at their own firm in Atlanta.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Paul: I don't know how to answer this other than to say that Jesus had compassion for the less fortunate of the world, and I try to remember that when dealing with people who are often going through the most difficult parts of their lives.

Carl: As federal criminal defense lawyers, we regularly interact with people who have made some of the worst mistakes in their lives. As a result of these mistakes, we work with people who are living through a very difficult time, and oftentimes, these individuals are at the lowest point in their lives. I believe that our profession is called to do everything we can to ease the burden on the people we represent. Easing the burden can take many forms, but in my experience, we do some of our best work when we, like Jesus, not only refrain from judging others, but when we also do everything possible to make sure that people understand that no matter what they have done, their lives still have value and meaning. More than any other biblical quotation that I have noticed, the phrase from Micah perfectly states our obligation: "What does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post?

Paul: After reconsidering much of what you've written over the years, I think the post from May 25, 2011 "STANDING IN A HOSTILE WORKPLACE" (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/05/standing-in-hostile-workplace.html) was one that impressed me most. I was especially impressed because I have first and second-hand knowledge of the facts from 2009 described in that post, about how a former employee was so utterly immature, ungracious and basically incapable of caring for others that were not exactly like her. What impressed me was how you went through so many stages of human emotion in reacting to and then going beyond the former employee's stupid remarks and attitudes. The post provided excellent lessons in how a person can deal with troublesome co-workers and others who reappear daily in our lives. These methods for dealing with such problem people translate to and can be used when we confront other challenges and hurdles in our lives. Again, that post resonated with me because I knew what happened, and perhaps more so because I saw how you reacted to and got over the hurtful comments and opinions.

Carl: Although I do not have just one favorite blog post, I have especially benefited from your "Vehicle of Compassion" series. For me, this series not only exposes the struggles and difficulties that we all face on a daily basis, but it also, and most importantly, reinforces the reality that without faith and God, life can be even more difficult, and in some cases unbearable. For example, last month, you included Darron and Erika Johnson as "Vehicles of Compassion." Darron is a minister and it has always been interesting to me to read about the difficulties that even ministers face in their personal lives. My wife and I have been married for almost 12 years, and I was truly able to identify with some of the comments made by Darron and Erika, and their message about the manner in which they confronted and dealt with their personal problems made me rethink the way that I need to deal with similar issues of my own.

fHtW: Using the phrase "Life is challenging. Life is good. Life is abundant.," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

Paul: Life is challenging, good and abundant, but going through a divorce can be the most difficult of hurdles, trying not to inflict too much damage while remaining true to oneself. I hope I did a good job and that my ex-wife and children were not permanently harmed by what we all had to endure.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

Carl: Before your blog, I was not familiar with the phrase "From Hell to Win." For me, thought, the "Hell" portion of the phrase perfectly describes the challenges to our faith that most of us face on a daily basis. As you point out regularly on your blog, however, the "Hell" portion of the phrase is (fortunately) only half the story. The other half is the "Win," which can only be achieved through faith and dedication to God. What is interesting about the "Win," though, is that in the end, a "Win" is often not on the terms that we initially envisioned, or wanted, for that matter. A true "Win" is on God's terms and it usually requires us to examine ourselves critically and alter our perception of what it truly means to "Win".

Darron & Erika Johnson

On the night they met, Darron told Erika, "You know I'm going to marry you, right?" She giggled that night...but laughed out loud on June 24, 2000 as she walked down the aisle to actually meet him at the altar. After the Baltimore natives married, they moved to Atlanta, Georgia where Darron worked as a Youth pastor and completed his B.A. at Morehouse College. Having graduated from the University of Maryland, Erika quickly began her career in education and enjoyed exploring the new city.

By 2002, the couple was settling into married life when they welcomed a set of twins, one of whom was born with a congenital heart defect. Life quickly took a whole new dimension and the couple found themselves confronted with financial, emotional, spiritual and personal stresses that caused them to fight everything around them, including each other! As the twins reached their first birthday, they were happy, healthy, and according to their mother "clearly geniuses". Their parents, however, were falling apart. And the marriage was nearly over.

The couple decided not to abandon their relationship and the vision of family they shared. They decided to move from Atlanta to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where they could slow down and build the relationship and family they both wanted. After five years of difficult conversations, learning to operate in complete honesty, numerous lessons on forgiveness, grace and mercy, and ultimately the acceptance of God's will, the couple finally became the "Mr. and Mrs." they longed to be.

In 2008, Darron was called to pastor the Emmanuel Fellowship Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. The family left Oklahoma, with the twins and a 2-year-old baby girl in tow. Pastor and First Lady Johnson now serve the congregation in numerous capacities. Yet, they are most enthusiastic about sharing God's Word to married couples and helping families to become whole and healthy. The Johnsons would never have guessed, after all of their marital struggles, they would be a model for relationships and family. Their testimony is simple, "God's power is available to all of us. But, we must be willing to do the WORK to build strong marriages and healthy relationships." After twelve years, with this philosophy, their home is still filled with giggles and laughter.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Darron & Erika: When do we not have to show the compassion of Christ in marriage?! Often marriage is the crucible in which our best and worst selves are revealed. Loving each other well through life's challenges requires the compassion of Christ when our natural inclination is to unleash wrath and fury.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post?

Darron & Erika: "ALL ABOARD THE SELF-IMPROVEMENT SHUTTLE -- 1st Stop: Self-Examination." (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/04/all-aboard-self-improvement-shuttle-1st.html). We love this post because it is so necessary. Self-development transforms us from who we are to who God intends for us to be. Yet, it is a process we must consciously choose to engage. When we don't, we fall into mental and emotional traps, like the reoccurring pity party, that will ultimately destroy us. And while you can't demand that everyone gets on the shuttle, you should make sure YOU are seated and your safety belt is securely fastened!

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

Darron: Faith is an evolving experience. It is not inherently situational. Therefore, in every aspect of my daily life, in every moment of my life, I am exercising my faith. The challenge is trusting God in situations that are increasingly complex. As faith matures, "From Hell to Win" becomes less about individual experiences and more about a life surrendered to God. The WIN comes as our perspective changes and we begin to see God's Glory being revealed all around us. So, my faith is challenged as I strive to be a loving husband, a conscious parent, an engaged pastor. And as my will lines up with His will, I experience God's goodness prevailing day-to-day and moment-to-moment.

fHtW: Using the phrase "Life is challenging. Life is good. Life is abundant.," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

Erika: Around third grade we realized our son was not progressing well academically in school. We are a family of high expectations, and while grades matter, we are much more driven by concept mastery and logic and reasoning skills. By the start of fourth grade, we were convinced that another year in the same school would not close the academic gaps that had been created in years past. After much deliberation, we decided to withdraw him from public school and educate him at home for the remainder of the year.

As an educator, I was confident in my ability to teach. As a mother, I was confident that I knew what my child needed. But as a Christian, I was believing not just that God could perform an academic miracle, but that He could do it through me!

I am ecstatic to report that after 7 months of 8 hour study days, lots of long walks and one-on-one b-ball matches, and more snacks than a Sam's Club can hold, my son has closed some serious academic gaps and become an avid reader and writer. From this situation I learned, Life is Challenging. Life is Good. Life is Abundant. Becoming a Home Educator was my greatest challenge to date. But the Lord was faithful--through God's goodness, we did the work. And we received an abundant reward for diligently seeking the Lord as we blessed our child with the gift of education!

Ministry Information

Emmanuel Fellowship Baptist Church

400 North Prairie Creek Road

Dallas, TX 75217

Phone: 469-358-1937

Website: www.efbcministries.com

Twitter: @pastordarron; @efbc_ladyj

Eric Mosley

First giving honor to God, Passa', First Lady, members, and Christian friends...

My name is Eric Mosley, and I am more than delighted to be the April 2012 Vehicle of Compassion. While growing up in a small suburb of Dallas, Texas, I developed an appetite for ambition and achievement. Throughout middle and high school, I excelled in academia and found a love for performing arts--the theater in particular--which became an outlet for me to deal with personal and familial hardships along the way. At 22, I have earned a B.A. in Drama from Morehouse College. I currently live in Dallas, Texas and work with Breakthrough Collaborative--a non-profit academic enrichment program for high-performing middle school students with a mission to get them into rigorous college preparatory high schools, and ultimately college. One of my life goals is to use the gifts that God has given me to create a performing arts school for under-served minority youth.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Eric Mosley: I find myself often empathizing with others and not only being a listening ear, but a strong source of good advice for family and friends. During college, I served as the Vice President of the Atlanta University Center Drama Ministry. Working, praying, performing, and interacting with students from so many different walks of life was instrumental in helping me to develop compassion for others.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post?

EM: I think that my favorite From Hell to Win blog post would have to be "Downpour." (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/07/downpour.html). The post talks about the anniversary of a traumatic event, and the author's cleansing spiritually, metaphorically, and physically. My older sister was killed in a car accident in January of 2006. Every anniversary is tough, and the first was the worst. Now, I have peace. "Downpour" was an eloquent articulation of questions, emotions, and revelations that everyone has or will experience at some point in their life. What I love about the blog post is that it is so transparent, and while the themes and anecdotes are extremely personal, they transcend to areas of everyone's lives.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

EM: It's hard to choose just one! I graduated from Morehouse in May 2011. Many are unaware of this, but I was afraid that I was not going to graduate. I just knew that something was going to pop up and I would be unable to walk. In fact, I still have the customized graduation announcements and envelopes that I ordered. I was afraid of the embarrassment of prematurely mailing, only to follow-up with a "just kidding, still have a semester" letter, call, text, or Facebook message. I prayed. Four days before graduation, I got a call from the registrar telling me that I was missing a computer class that was required for graduation. Of all things that would hold me back, she called about a computer class. Luckily, I had taken a dual credit college course in high school that satisfied that requirement. I reminded her, she double-checked my transcript, and within the hour I went "from Hell to Win." In retrospect, I believe that my doubtfulness and lack of confidence in God caused me unnecessary anxiety, and cost me oh so valuable graduation dollars ($$$). Those graduation announcements serve as a constant reminder to me that there is a cost in doubting God.

Courtney D. Ware

Photo Credit:
Recipe For Passion Photography (www.recipe4passion.com)

My name is Courtney Danielle Ware, and I'm 27 years old. I was born in Newport News, VA but reared and raised on the south side of the metro Atlanta area. I'm a bona fide southern belle and Georgia peach who loves warm weather and springtime, as I was born in May. After graduating from Agnes Scott College and SCAD, I consider myself an experienced creative writer and a thoughtful poet. My vocation is copywriting and one of my life goals is to promote services and behaviors that help to improve the human condition and moreover, affect social change, particularly for minorities and the unprivileged. Basically, I love to help and encourage people and enrich other's lives through artistic expression. It is my prayer that I am able to do God's will using the gifts God has given me and fulfill my purpose--my life's work--that it might be pleasing to God.

From Hell to Win: To date, in what ways have you been involved with exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ?

Courtney D. Ware: I exemplify the compassion of Jesus Christ by practicing patience and exhortation; I am always available to provide a listening ear to family and friends who need to vent and be encouraged. And I exhibit compassion by keeping the peace at work -- when the day is hectic, every project is "hot," and my coworkers are on edge with one another.

fHtW: What is your favorite From Hell to Win blog post? And, what are some of the meaningful lessons you've learned from reading this post?

CDW: My favorite From Hell to Win blog post is titled "Wait for the Win." (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/11/wait-for-win.html). All of the posts are encouraging to me in some way, but this one really spoke to me. More like, yelled at me. I literally read it every day for a week to remind myself of the importance of waiting on God's will to be done, waiting on God to fulfill His promises to me, and most importantly, waiting IN EXPECTATION of God's answer. I've been working on my patience as I wait for God to move in my life in one way in particular, and this post really encouraged me to just be still and continue to be prayerful without complaining.

fHtW: Using the phrase "From Hell to Win," describe an instance where your faith was challenged and God prevailed.

CDW: I found myself under contract to buy my house but about to lose my year-long contract job (that was supposed to be converted to full-time status), but because I serve a victorious God, I activated my faith to close on my home regardless and trusted God to be my source...and He blessed me with a new full-time position on the very day I moved in--God was with me from hell to win!

Business Information
Courtney is the co-founder and co-partner of Ball-N-Co. LLC, a small marketing firm that offers design, editorial, promotion and printing services. Let Ball-N-Co. LLC help brand YOU!

Website: www.ball-n-co.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ballnco
Twitter: @ballnco
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E-mail: info@ball-n-co.com