It’s the last day of 2015. This year has taught me so much about myself. I have everything within me to be great, and I need to step it up a notch in the new year.

It’s no secret that I grew up in the church, but I’m amazed at how much things have changed.  I’m not sure if we ever discussed where  “Watch Night Service,”  derives from.  Do you know?

Also known as “Freedom Eve,” happened for the first time on Wednesday, December 31, 1862. Slave and free blacks gathered at churches and homes anticipating the news that a law changing decision was around the corner by way of the Emancipation Proclamation. January 1, 1863, the law was passed but unfortunately that did not mean that slavery was over. What it did mean is that the black community came together and believed that their faith would get them through to the other side, freedom. From that New Year’s Eve going forward the Freedom Eve now known as Watch Night Service is still an annual tradition in the black community every year. The faith that God will bring closure to the past, and bring forth a prosperous and healthy new year.

Whether you decide to watch the ball drop, drop it low at the club, chill at home, or attend church, I am hoping that you, YES YOU, are surrounded with love and happiness as we close out 2015.

Oh what am I doing?  I’m not sure yet.  I thought about hanging with friends tomorrow night, instead of tonight because personally I want to go to a place where everyone is believing that their faith will take them to the next level.   I don’t want to say that I’m going to church because it sounds good.  I’m going because I know that I personally need to go.  In 2016, I’ll continue to be transparent, and unpack more of my story.  I can’t wait!  The mission for 2016 is to continue to bring awareness, educate, and encourage.  Are you with me?

It’s been an amazing year, and I’m looking forward to 2016!

Xoxo,

R.J.