Hello readers! ... as we round out the end of 2007, "mzstephens" would like to take this time to reflect on the past year and all that I've accomplished in it. Thanks to everyone of you who love me, and who have supported my efforts and ideas, I've been able to set the wheels in motion for a life-long dream. And for those of you who don't know me from Adam... I Thank you too, because you taking the time to read my "prosaic style" and "ramblings" that I call "my column", means a great deal, as I open myself up to the literary world. I anticipate, that I, as every writer is, will eventually be confronted with criticism, be it constructive or otherwise, but for those of us with a strong enough desire, any dialogue is worthwhile because it means, (in my case) I've gotten someone's attention, and that's an opportunity to establish a forum of my own for what I'd like to see as a "personal crusade." My ambition, in writing this piece, more than anything, is to incite as well as inspire discussions that cause us to think on some social issues, and maybe question ourselves, and what more we can do when given the opportunity. (...here is where I pray I have not plagiarized anyone, as I realize the statement I just made is so broad and could be mistaken as a "quote", but that was not my intention).

It's been "mzstephensbizness" to pull different topics to the forefront and give my opinion on them (whether it be wanted or not - smile:) .. I say a lot in "jest", but for the most part I really do want to leave you with something to think about. And just as I've been blessed, I'd like to bless others. We know the power of the pen (or in this case, my computer keyboard) is a mighty thing, and while I'm just a "nobody", I speak for "everybody" in need when I ask you to take into consideration someone you know, or know of, and do something unexpected for them this year. CALL. LISTEN. AGREE. PRAY. BE AVAILABLE. COMFORT. LOVE. ENCOURAGE. SUPPORT. That's it. I didn't say go out and spend any money, or tell you to promise to donate time or money to any charity (although that would be nice too), and then proceed to make you feel guilty if you can't. Sometimes those who need us most are right there in the same household, same workplace, or even in the same places we worship. You don't know how far a word of understanding can go. We can't heal the world, but by not adding any more "toxicity" to it, we can offer hope to someone who thinks no one is paying attention.

It's because someone paid enough attention to me that I'm on this path. I've referred to this column as a "ministry", but it really encapsulates a number of things for me. My hope is that people are humored, touched, and motivated to make a difference to someone, somewhere. Thanks for your support, and as we wrap up the year with God's blessing - let's pray for his mercy in 08' ... Oh, eight, Y'aLL! copyright pending 2007