Coming to an end...

I am working the midnight shift for the next week.  It is always so difficult to drive home in the mornings.  My body is not use to this strange tour which I call "so not normal."

There are a lot of things that we as "police officers" experience that are not normal and to me, this shift is certainly one of them!! 

This assignment usually comes twice a year.  I always dread it but toward the end, I begin to embrace it.  My body slowly becomes accustomed to having the day to sleep and then the late afternoon to study and be still.  I get to pretend that life as I know it is at a complete standstill.  I am physically unable to participate and I cannot see past my bed :-)

I stock up on food and I turn my ringer off.  Anyone who knows me knows that I am unavailable due to my zombie state of mind.  I look out the window from time to time as life passes by and I resemble a robot that has no control over her body.

And before you know it, a week or two passes and things begin to settle in the old routine.  I start to feel like my old self again and the past becomes a blur. 

BUT, for me, the good news is that this is my #last tour on midnights as the CID Watch Commander.  Lord willing, I will have the privilege of accomplishing 25 years of service on November 18, 2015.

None of what I've endured and experienced would have been possible without the GRACE of God.  HE was there on every assignment, walked alongside me on every foot beat, responded to every code-one call, all those hours of training and every range qualification.  He safely carried me through every search warrant, demonstration, ever protest and every frozen Inauguration Detail.  He was with me when I locked up every violent offender, when I responded to every burglar alarm and when I conducted every unsafe traffic stop.  He has been my #ROCK in those moments when I just didn't feel like it, when things made absolutely no sense and when I wanted to give up.  GOD is the source of my strength and HE has been even when I did not know it.

There were many, many days...years in fact, when I did not give Him any credit and that was only because I was operating in my own will.  In the past, I never sought His guidance or path and believed that I knew what was best.  How wrong was I?!

Thank You Father that YOUR #best was and is so much better than mine.  I thank You and I praise You for all that You've done not only for me, but for all of my brothers and sisters in #blue and for all of the citizens that we were able to help.  I continue to pray for those who have lost a loved one, those who never got closure and for those who were wrongly accused.

Father there are still so many who need YOU and still so many who are waiting for healing and deliverance.  Our Nation is in trouble, our schools, churches and communities need YOUR PRESENCE.  This world is operating out of fear, greed, pride and ignorance.  WE are STARVING for LOVE and we are in need of an outpouring of YOUR Holy Spirit.  We call on the name of Jesus and WE wait in expectation.

Father have Your way. Please, have Your way!

An Unknown Future

It's so strange to me how we can oftentimes fret about the BIG things and remain completely unaware that nothing is guaranteed.  Not even our next breath.

<>< Psalm 144:4
"Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow."

I have been wondering what God has in store for me as I will be leaving, "Lord Willing" at the end of this year.  I would love to be a substitute school teacher or youth counselor.  It would be my greatest joy to help in the life of a little one, full of wonder and so eager to be molded and influenced. 

Nothing against adults, but after 25 years of law enforcement, I am so ready to be around little hearts with whom I can shape, encourage and instill the kindness of Christ.  I won't do it with boldness, but with subtlety as I interact in their presence and pray in private for their lives and their futures.

It will also give me an opportunity to love on those who are lacking love at home.  I will so enjoy hugging the students and making whatever provisions that God will allow me to, without crossing any boundaries.

I have a servant's heart and oftentimes, I do not feel that need is great in my current field.  Yes, I have met some pretty amazing people and I have created and built lasting friendships, but meeting the need for the community and residents are moreso reached by the first responders.

My heart's longing is really for the seniors and the youth.  I love the senior friendships that I have made in my lifetime and I pray that one day, when I am too old to move about or come and go as I please, that some young woman would come alongside me and sit and talk for awhile; or even run a few errands for me :-)

I love that I am not the selfish, controlling and even fearful person that I once was, and that Christ has given me a new heart.  A heart that sees the need, hears the need and longs to meet the need.  He has given me way more blessings than I deserve and He has carried me this far for a reason. And that reason is to pay it forward.  To be His light and tell others about His goodness!

Although I have plans and dreams for myself, I do trust that His way is far greater than anything that I could want for myself.  As I do not know where I will live in the future, nor do I know where I will work....#BUT I know a God who is faithful to walk beside me and hold my hand.

<>< Proverbs 16:9
"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps."

If He's going to establish our steps, that means that He's already got a plan in place and He's also going to join us in our journey!

I'm so ready and so excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#TRUSTGOD
#HEISABLE

Happy #2015

This is it for me!  Lord willing, I will be retiring at the end of the year.

I have been a cop longer than I have been a Christian and I have felt safer walking with Jesus in the past 6 years than I have carrying a glock for the Metropolitan Police Department in the past 24 years.  Only God can give you that kind of peace, protection and comfort. 

Psalm 23 is my best friend!

The same but not...

Sometimes.....well actually, most times when I'm sitting at my desk, it feels like "ground hog day."

It truly feels as if I never left.

This place seems to recycle its self again and again...at least until the alert tone sounds. And then, it's "code one, use caution!"

And with all that's happening today....it's use #extreme caution!

A police officer can be your friend, if you let down your guard and open up your heart. We/I mean you no harm.
With love,
Sgt. Fuller

A #24 year veteran
Christian
Mother
Daughter
Aunt
Sister
Friend
Citizen

I just so happen to wear a uniform.

LORD We Need YOU....

Father, as you know, there were four homicides in our Nation's Capitol last night.  We need you, Lord Jesus!

I believe in your promises and I trust in your second coming!  Those who know you await your arrival.

Until then, Father your healing and comfort is desperately needed for the family and friends who suffered this great loss.  In your son's name, I pray. Amen.


A New Heaven and a New Earth

"…And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." And He who sits on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new." And He said, "Write, for these words are faithful and true."…

Revelation 21:3-5

7th and Waterfront Southwest

Keep Up The Faith & Fight!

We received the below letter from a Christian mom who appreciates our Law Enforcement efforts.

Our Assistant Chief, Diane Groomes shared it with us via group e-mail:

I just love it!

Dear Diane,

With all the hate speech aimed at our law enforcement lately, I want to reach out to as many departments as possible with words of thanks and encouragement. I am a Christian, single mother of three and all I want to say is, please, don't give up on us all. I am with you, not against you and so is God. All the disrespect for authority is just the ugly fruit of a culture growing in un-godliness. I am so grateful for the police. I know most of you are doing what you do because you have a heart of justice. I imagine it is such a difficult job dealing with the rebellious people of society. Day in and day out feeling hated by them. Walking a difficult line. I just want to encourage you with this letter and show my appreciation for all you do and go through. I respect our police, fire department and military for all they do. I thank you, thank you, thank you for putting your life and sanity on the line for my sake daily. I pray that our heavenly Father brings you peace and rest in this turbulent world. May He strengthen you and give you perseverance to do all He has called you to do. May His blessings of protection and wisdom come upon you all the days of your life. With all sincerity, Kristi Smith-Willis

A Classic Photo

I saw this yesterday while at the Police Academy.  They have the coolest collection of photos on the walls there.  So much history in this picture.  The ability for blacks and whites to work and walk alongside one another was not permitted at the conception of the Metropolitan Police Department.  This picture says a lot!  I love it!

Awesome Feeling

to be known for more than just a "cop!"

These were gifts from Assistant Chief Diane Groomes.  So very special of her to think of me in that way.  So grateful.  A memory buried deep in my heart!

The Full Armor

Lord, I cannot do it without you!



Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,

Sergeant's can dream too...

Less than a year to go and I'm so excited to see what's next...

Happy 24 Years....

And the journey continues...

Random Pics

A day in the life...

What's Happening Now?

printer printing
pounding on the keyboard
papers shuffling
footsteps
talking
door slams
police radio
thoughts rambling
calculator
traffic
laughter
disgruntle coworker
e-mail notification
cell phone chimes
keys jingling
chewing
breathing
living
grateful

Just before my day begins...

Leaving Work Yesterday....

Yes, one day all the "crime and stuff" will come to an end and those who #believe will be with Him.

Sunset At The First District

October 5, 2014

Seasons Of Life

Many of my coworkers have retired and many are in the process of retiring. Lord willing, I will be joining them very soon.

I miss Debra, Manning, Elliot, Riddle, Donnie, John, Marcia, Chris, Dennis, Garry, Robbie, Lisa G., Lisa A., Monica, Norma, Bill, JT, and many others.

I will miss Sabrina when she leaves.

Many have been promoted and or transferred: I miss Kim, Smitty, George, Chanel, James, Julius, and many, many others.

Life is all about seasons. Nothing is permanent and nothing remains the same. I'm so grateful that with each passing day, we become closer to who we were meant to be.

Look at your life and look closely at the career you have chosen or are about to choose. What season are you in and how will others benefit from your presence and contribution?

Life is not about you or I. It is about being kind to others, loving and forgiving one another as Christ has forgiven us.

Working past sunset...

Your Grace

God you are so very gracious to [us].  In spite of the evil, cruel and disheartening acts that occur day after day, you still continue to show your grace.  You continually gift us with a new day, a new sunrise, a gentle breeze, a beautiful flower, a fluttering butterfly, green grass, amazing clouds, a sweet bird's song, food, shelter, employment, medical coverage, hugs, laughter, photographs, beaches, animals, transportation, museums, choices, friendships, comfort, books, desires, dreams, homes, parks, music, churches, playgrounds, a child's laughter, nursing homes, endless resources, grandparents, wisdom, tears, lessons, answered prayers, sleep, vacations, paychecks, dancing, ice cream, electronics, candles, memories, hope, love and so much more....My Lord, I do not take any of this for granted and I pray that if anyone is in need of a reminder about how precious this fleeting life is that they would stop, look up and praise You. 

There is nothing more precious than "knowing" that we are not alone in this life's journey and that we are not in control.  That is why my joy is complete and why I am trusting you for ALL things. 

The enemy may be under the assumption that he has the upper hand and that society is losing the war against crime, but Father, I know who reigns and who still sits on the throne.  You are coming back to take what is rightfully yours and those who know and love you will NOT suffer your wrath.

Father, please have your way and continue in your will to bless our Nation in spite of how things may "appear."

I pray for comfort to those in mourning, those who have lost a loved one, those who have suffered a violent attack, those who feel lost, those who suffer from addictions, those who are contemplating suicide, those who have broken relationships, those who are homeless, those awaiting adoption, those considering divorce, those who have been mentally, verbally and physically abused, those who are victims of human trafficking, those who are wrongly imprisoned, those suffering from depression, those who have no hope and those who do not know you to be Lord of all.  This is my heartfelt prayer, in Jesus' precious and perfect name. Amen.

Thankful Me

the sun wakes me up
it's another day
the coffee keeps me going
i am on my way

the job is calling my name
i cannot be late
with the to-do's on my mind
i can't remember the date

the boss isn't in yet
oh what a relief
i fix my morning grits
yes such a treat

i turn on my music
to calm my soul
i glance in the mirror
am i getting old

i check the clock
it's time to begin
my door is wide open
you may walk right in

i talk and i listen
and i lend a hand
it just doesn't make sense
what's wrong with this plan

i say to myself
is it the end of the day
i give thanks to the LORD
for all that he gave

ahhhhhhhh
i'm headed home...

My Bliss....

In the midst of "calls for service," telephones ringing, unimportant e-mails, keyboards pounding, case reviews and rush hour traffic, I look up to see in the median across the street, a big white butterfly fluttering about.

Yes, that's my bliss.

Thank you Lord...

:-)

It's Getting So Close

As many of my friends and colleagues are retiring, I'm reminded that soon, it'll be my turn.  I still cannot believe that I am a cop.  I never held a dream as a little girl to grow up and fight crime.  I actually never dreamt.

Being abandoned by my birth father, being a child of a painful divorce and being a young pregnant teen in a domestic violence relationship left very little room for dreams.

And although I have discovered at a much later stage in my life that I can dream, I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up.  My dreams for now consist of being content...not being concerned about a career (so to speak)...just being able to live on the water and have my needs met, one day at a time.

I want to be in a state of knowing how blessed I am and how much He loves me.  Something that has surely happened over time.  And to think that all the years in the past, I was a #crime fighter and I was not praying for my safety or that of my peers.  I didn't even know the word prayer...not in the true sense.

His grace was always there and even in the midst of this messed up world, covered in its sin, greed, evil and hopelessness...His grace is still there. 

For those that #believe, pray to Him and wait in expectation, His grace is sufficient.

Knowing that has caused my questioning to cease.  I know longer wonder, "How could such awful things happen in my day to day life in law enforcement?"  God has given us each free will and we can use it to obey and accept him or to defy and reject him.

We can continue to blame society, our local churches, the government, the school system, the prisons and the parents #OR we can each make a small contribution toward the bigger goal.  To love as He has loved us and to forgive as He has forgiven us and to bless others as He has blessed us.  It sounds simple when you say it and even as I type it, but I have found this to be very true and very effective. 

I am not the same girl I was almost 24 years ago when I raised my right hand and took an oath to serve and protect.  I was shy, controlling, angry, hurt, misguided and oh so rough around the edges.  And sad to say that I wore a smile so wide and so fake that no one knew how broken and bruised I was on the inside.

So to know that my time is quickly approaching, I hold no regrets about my yesterdays, no fears about tomorrow and no reservations about my next career as a #civilian.  I know that because of my faithfulness to Him and to M.P.D.C., a beautiful gift with my name engraved on it awaits me just on the other side of this badge and gun.

So excited and so grateful!

Sgt. Butterfly :-)

Grateful....

My Lord,
I know what Colossians 3:23 says and I need you to hold my hand.  Without you I simply cannot.  However, with you, I can!

In Jesus' precious name. Amen.

Prayer request:
Our Nation
Our Soldiers
Our Leaders
Our Pastors
Our Churches
Our Public Servants
Our Teachers
Our Government
Our Youth
Our Prisons
Our Marriages
Our Family structure
Our Enemies
Our Health
Our Medicare
Our Economy
Our Disabled
Our Mental Health Consumers
Our Pride
Our Greed
Our Sins
Our Need For A Savior

Serendipty

Sunday, February 23, 2014.  Thank you Jeff W.

Thank you ...

Thank you My Lord for 23 years of safety and service.

I have my moments, BUT James 1:2-8 says to count it all JOY!  All days are not good days, but I am grateful for the lessons, blessings, trials and triumphs.

I was reading this devotion and I have felt this way on many of days...

My Normal

roll call
crime reports
conference calls
meetings
sounds of gunshots
chaos
police tape
interviews
moments of silence
traffic accidents
school crossings
bike patrol
robberies
peace be still
stabbings
blood
screaming
evidence
witnesses
exhale
stolen autos
domestic assaults
fast food
dispatcher
scout cars
paramedics
suspects
burglaries
shift ends
but the cycle continues...

Be The One...

With the government shutdown, many, many people are afraid, frustrated and down right mad.  I don't know what that feels like.  Nor do I know what it feels like to be unemployed.  I have been praying for a long time for those who have lost their jobs and for those who may not know where their next meal will come from.

I've worked in the District of Columbia for almost 23 years and to turn the cheek on the homeless and hungry would be cruel.  I find great delight in making a small difference.  Because of My Lord, a portion of my earnings are donated to many homeless organizations.  I do not know what it feels like to be hungry or thirsty.  I know that it may seem unfair of me to say this, but I must.

The God that I serve is faithful.  He has blessed each individual with the gift of life and has a plan for each breathing soul.  (Jeremiah 29:11-14) We, as individuals however; we have failed.  We are a selfish and consumed society.  The more we "get" the more we "want."

I took an inventory of my home and my personal belongings when I moved almost 3 years ago and the amount of "stuff" that I had acquired was insane.  After I'd downsized, I thought that I'd donated most of it until I came back from Haiti last November and felt compelled to do another inventory of my material possessions.  I had to be honest with myself and see that there was so much more that I could do.

Please search your house and your heart...better yet, look at your income and the (overage) if you're blessed...and see where and how you can help at least one person.  How awesome would it be if you could help one family?!

If one person...JUST ONE...did something out of the kindness of his/her heart, there would not be hunger and homeless needs in our Nation's Capital, in our Nation or even in our Country.  It sounds make believe and even unachievable...but we can do more than what we're doing now.  Yes, one person can start today!

It's true, the more you Give the more you Receive!  His grace will be sufficient in your time of need.  But only if you follow His commandments.  We must begin to pay it forward...and not in hopes to get something back, but out of LOVE!
Proverbs 19:17

* I realize that a lot of "homeless" individuals have mental issues and a small portion may very well have chosen to live that type of lifestyle for personal reasons.

He is faithful...

Sunrise over the Navy Yard

Lamentations 3:22-25
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him.”
The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;

Even though in our flesh, it may not feel like it...He is faithful.

He Cares

Yesterday was a horrific day in Our Nation's Capital.

Who, What, When, Why, How?????

Those are the basic questions for an Investigator and yesterday I kept asking them over and over again. 
My coworkers and I were in complete shock as well as the rest of Washington, DC.  It happened so suddenly and so close to home. 

No words can describe the intensity, the emotion and the uncertainty...

The Law Enforcement Agencies ALL pulled together as ONE union.  We did what we were trained to do and in the end, 13 lives were lost.  And although the media coverage was insane and nonstop, it helped to answer some of the "basic" questions...

But still the WHY lingers in my mind...it did in the midst of the tragedy and it did as I drove (home) and it still lingers today.

As I cried out to God in my quiet voice, He said, "I'm still God and I still care.  I am still in CONTROL."

As I lift of the victims, their families, my peers, our community and the Nation in PRAYER...believe it or not, it is well with my SOUL.  I say that because I TRUST in Him and He is still God. 

How do I know?  Because today is a new day and in His word, He promised that His Mercy would be new every day.  He can stop this madness at a moment's notice...however, HE is still in the business of saving lives.  Today is the day to give "your life" to Him.  He is still GOD and He cares.

1st Peter 5:7

sent w/love

Who's Counting?

Happy Butterfly Day!

Only 893 glorious days until my retirement and then I get to Migrate with the Monarchs. 

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

But then again...if He has different plans for me...I wholeheartedly submit to them.

Have a safe summer everyone!

Please....lets find some fun and interesting things for our YOUTH to do.  It DOES take a village.  We are ALL in this together...or at least we should be.

A white butterfly just fluttered by my window...something new is in the making :-)

Be BLESSED!

This Life Is Not About Me

I have discovered that although this career is not my passion, it was His purpose.

In that discovery, one can only submit.

w/love
Sgt. Butterfly

Celebration X's 3

Lord, by your grace, I participated in the 57th Presidential Inauguration.  As a Law Enforcement Officer, it was cold, brutal and exhausting.  Working 16+ hours just isn't normal.  My feet were frozen and my body ached and I was so dehydrated.  I couldn't layer enough clothing to fight the wind and chill.  My finger tips were numb and I was quietly complaining on the inside.  Not good for someone in my position.

But then again, I am in the flesh and as long as I am...I will have a tendency to do that.  However, at the end of the night, after reflecting back and after thawing out...I have to admit that it was truly an amazing event.  The crowds, the unity, the parade, the soldiers, the excitement and the enormous amount of planning that went into making it another "great day" in History.  Not only was he elected for a second term, it was a celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s' Birthday.

We have to set aside our differences and rejoice as a human race.  We are ALL the same in that regard.  We are so much more alike than we are different.  And whether we "like" or "dislike" our leaders, your word tells us to pray for them.

If all would join in prayer and love our neighbor, just maybe...CRIME would begin to slowly decline and good will override evil.

One can only hope....

BTW:  It was my last Inauguaration.  This fall I will joyfully celebrate 23 years of MPDC.  And by your grace, I will be eligible to retire in "2015."  YAY!!!!!!

Great is THY Faithfulness

My Lord,

You gave me the most amazing and unexpected gift this year.  YOU are faithful beyond words.  You know the cares, concerns and needs of your children. 

It's so very true...when we delight in you...YOU give us the desires of our hearts.  Even ones we didn't know we wanted.

I lift your name on HIGH for all to see.

Let my light continue to shine in the work place and please Father, continue to cover us (my brothers and sisters in blue) in your grace and mercy as we battle against the evil forces of this world.

In Jesus' precious name.  Amen.

Why are you angry at the cops?

Lamentations 3:39-40
Why should any living man complain when punished for his sins?
Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.

Lamentations 3:22-23
Because of the Lord's great love we
are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness...

Repent people...
Hell is for real!

It comes with the job...

On my way to a meeting the other day and wow.......

I love my job...

when I happen upon scenes like this.  His grace in the midst of day to day crime reports.

Grateful

We oftentimes take the little things for granted.  Father, I am grateful for this window next to my desk.

And although i oftentimes feel like i'm not making a difference, Lord, You remind me that I am.  For that, I'M GRATEFUL!

The Image of Me...

August 30, 2012, at 12:11 p.m. the Monarch fluttered by my window. I’m doing case reviews and intermittently daydreaming and I could have missed her. I saw her gracefully pass by my window and then flutter across the median.


Thank you God for creating such a quiet, graceful, beautiful creature. She is surely me. Lol

The flesh is weak...

Psalm 56:3-4

When I am afraid,
I will trust in you.
In God, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?

~ If your life isn't working out the way "you" planned it, try putting your HOPE in God and not MAN.

Love for a great day,
Sgt. Butterfly

God we need you

Crime is up in the Nation's Capitol.  Our youth are so lost and it only leads me to believe that our society is not as concerned as we should be.  I'd hate to think you're one of "those" people who look the other way as long as you're not the one being victimized.  That sounds harsh but most people simply do not want to get involved.

This WORLD that we all live in and share is headed for disaster.  Sure, it looks good in some aspects...sunshine, green grass, butterflies and flowers in every color, but our human spirits are in desperate need of mending.  I have to believe that more people are wounded and hurting and that's the root of this chaos as opposed to living a life of joy and contentment.  That and the fact that SATAN has completely convinced the mind that it's all about self.

This war, the drugs, the guns, the prostitutes, the assaults, the thefts...cheating, lying, greed, etc...it will all come to pass when the Creator of the Universe, the maker of Heaven and Earth brings down his wrath on the evil ones.

You simply will not be able to face him if your life is not pleasing in His sight.  He offers Salvation to everyone and please, take it from me, His loves heals.  His love is unconditional.  His love is Universal.  He has no favorites and He is most merciful and forgiving.

Please talk about Him every chance you get.  Tell your children and your children's children.  His word, His truth and His presence can and will transform lives.  Even if it's one soul...knowing that you had a hand in that will have a rippling effect.

Today...help someone, save someone or just hug someone.

Love, peace and blessings.

Lord, this is my prayer...

Love's On Its Way ~

Oh Father,
I wish I had understanding.
Never known more
Never been so well informed
We know the score
Heard it all before,
But I've never felt more powerless

There's so much blood on the streets
So much hope refused
So much grainy teenage photographs on the evening news

Oo, when everywhere's violence
Silently I go

[Chorus:]
Love's on its way
I hope it won't be too late

When the day comes
And I've counted all my sins
How mant I'll see
I want to be able to say that I did more, more than pray
I did more
Than just spend my money
Just writing letters
Than just going out marching
I did more than talking and saying the right thing
Wearing the right thing
It's time for an uprising

[Chorus:]
Love's on its way
Hope it won't be too late

Love's on its way
Love's on its way
Love's on its way

Hope it won't be too late

Song by Corrine Bailey Rae

Can we save our youth?

What are we lacking in today's society?  Is that we don't fear authority, our parents or just out right don't fear the Lord?

Deuteronomy 6:5-9
Love the Lord Your God

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.  These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children.  Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them to your foreheads.  Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates."

Physically, I'm at my desk...

but mentally, I am here.

Mark me on the scene

we all have a twin and this is mine, pictured above.

last week i was on the scene of multiple crimes and it saddens me that so many members of our society have no regard for the human life.  and as i post this, my inner voice is saying that a life without god is no life at all. yes, you may have a heartbeat, but do you have a soul?

What is burnout?

When you are constantly spinning your wheels doing something that you don't like and aren't good at as opposed to something you love and find pure delight in.

A new begining

How faithful is our God?

Last year was difficult for many of us.  I think a lot of people blamed the government and the economy.  Mostly true.  But if we are honest with ourselves and look deeply within ourselves, we are contributing factors as well.  As a community, we are not connected.  There are just as many Liquor Stores as there are Churches and today's youth have no idea what it means to worship.

Oftentimes, people think that the law doesn't apply to them and that is to include God's law.  His book of truth and His guide to our every day living.  Yes, it can be difficult to understand how something written over 2,000 years ago can apply to "us" today.  But trust me, I have found it to work whole heartedly.  It isn't easy, and you cannot do it alone.  But if you get involved in your local Church, root yourself in His promises and truth and then apply that to your life, someone close to you will notice your change, your faith and your light. God is seeking obedience, not perfection.

It will become a domino effect.  I've seen it happen in my life.  I wasn't always saved, believe it or not, my son was saved first.  He lived with his dad and that's a whole another topic.  But after my Salvation, I prayed fervently for my daughter and a year later, she was saved. 

My Lord and Savior can take me to Heaven whenever He so desires.  My children's names have been added to the book of life and I can rest in peace.

Let's believe that this year, God's presence will show up in a mighty way.  That fewer kids will be arrested and more parents, adults, teachers and the like will get involved to unite in love.  In the end, love is the key.

Love for a great start in this year of new Grace.

Good morning God,

Good morning God,

I need you today, just like yesterday.  And Lord, if you grant me another tomorrow, I'm certain that I'll need you then.  I love you and I pray that the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and Redeemer.

In Jesus precious name, this is my prayer. Amen

This is not what I had planned for my life...

Only by His will, certainly not my own.  The below photo sits on my desk and it was placed there a while ago by way of reading one of my favorite books.  It's titled, Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach.  It is indeed a keeper.  I've had it since 1996 and still keep it by my bedside, right next to my Bible. 

One of her many interesting "post" talks about finding the little girl you used to trust.  The one you believed in and the one who had dreams in her heart way before others came along and told her that it wouldn't be possible.  Well that little girl had no dreams whatsoever to grow up and become a cop. (lol) 

Actually, she just started dreaming a couple of years ago and wow; her dreams are finally coming to past.  Who knew?  If she thought that she'd reap these kind of results, she would have begun ages ago.  But then again, it (the dreams) would have only flourished according to His will.

The other picture was taken when I was chosen to be Detective Sergeant of the Year in 2010.  Once again, not my doing.

The MPDC Dispatch

I am slowly turning my blogs into books via Google's assistance.  It's pretty cool actually.  I've done the Free Spirit Butterfly Blog and this one is next on my list.  Therefore, I wanted to post the below article to have as a keepsake and add to my police scrapbook.  Last year our Dispatch Column did a Special Mother's Day Tribute to the Women in Blue and I was blessed enough to be one of the chosen and to share my story.  Here goes... warning, it's pretty lenghty.

Mother’s Day tribute to MPD Moms ~

What motivates you to be a police officer?
I am a Christian and the Lord is my
motivation. I was a lost soul and trying
to do everything my way. Specifically,
in the workplace, I had no idea what
delegation meant and assumed that I
could and would do it all. I’ve always
had multiple tasks assigned to me and
thought that it was “my” responsibility
to complete them. I did not know
that I could reach out for help. I never
reached out for help growing up and
that motto followed me into my adult
life.

Does being a mom make you a better officer?
More compassionate? Committed?
Being a mother makes me a great
law enforcement officer. I have so much
compassion for our youth. It literally
breaks my heart when I see the morning
juvenile reports with young faces of
those arrested the night before. I keep
asking myself, “Where are their parents.
Don’t they care?” But the compassionate
side of me knows that most of
them are from broken homes and most
likely a mother that has to work to provide
for her family. Some people think
that a Boys and Girls Club would solve
the problem. The problem lies in the
parents’ responsibility to get the child/
children involved in the church, which
will in turn, get them involved in their
community.

Describe one of your most challenging
situations on the job.
My most challenging tasks were
not as a street officer. It was within the
lines of management. I was tasked to
be the A/Lt. for the First District Investigative
Unit on January 11, 2009
and, boy, was I was mad. I had no desire
to do it and I literally had a tantrum.
I wanted to remain the Sergeant
— only be responsible for my duties
and did not want to answer directly to
the Command Staff. I had no choice
but to go to my Bible and ask God,
“Why me? You know I don’t like to be
in the spotlight. Please, ask someone
else.” With that being said, I decided
to journal about the experience and
document my good and bad days. After
the good days started to out-number
the bad ones, I stopped journaling
and started embracing the gift that
God had given me. The ability to do it
with his assurance that He would be
by me every step of the way. I am not a
public speaker and I have done at least
six PowerPoint presentations and the
words spoken were not my own. Not
that I wasn’t nervous each and every
time, but God will give you the confidence
you need if you would ask!

How does your occupation impact your
children’s lives?
I am so very fortunate in this aspect.
My kids have watched me work
hard all my life. They probably thought
that I was doing my very best to provide
for them. But in actuality, I was
trying to prove to myself that because
my father left me when I was two, that I
could make something of myself without
his presence. It wasn’t until I met
my birth father in 2003 that I realized
that I didn’t have to prove anything to
anyone, including myself. Knowing
that allowed me to stop working overtime
as much as I used to and to enjoy
being a mom to my kids. Before, I was
never really present. I was there but
I was irritable and tired all the time.
Then I became more available; much
more relaxed, which afforded me the
quality time to really listen when they
were talking and not think about the
next thing on my to-do list.

What aspect of your profession are your
kids most curious about? Would you encourage
them to follow in your footsteps
I can honestly say that my kids
have never had any specific curiosities
about my career. When I joined the
department, they were two and eight.
All they every wanted was my safe return
home at the end of each tour.
As far as following in my footsteps,
I would not encourage that. Being an
officer was my desire since my early
years and I think that they would have
chosen my same path by now. My desire
stemmed from watching my stepdad
come home in a police cruiser,
looking really sharp in his uniform. I
have always encouraged my children
to do whatever it was that their hearts
desired and to be the very best at that.
That is something that I wish my parents
would have told me growing up.
If they had, maybe I would have been
a reporter, interviewing members of
MPDC from the other side of the microphone.

What role does law enforcement play
in nurturing and building character in
young people?
I think today’s role in law enforcement
would best be served if we were
consistent in our actions and in our
duty to serve. I mean that in a professional
and positive way. Some of us
have truly lost the excitement and zest
that we possessed early on in our careers.
It may not be as much fun as you
grow older, but in my opinion, I think
that it is still rewarding.
I can honestly say that although
I am looking forward to my retirement,
I am still committed to coming
to work each and every day, completing
my assigned task, helping others
in any way that I can, and continuing
to pray that I can save at least one soul
from a life of violence. If I can assist in
finding justice for one victim during
his or her time of despair, then I can go
home at the end of that day, knowing
that I made a difference someone’s life.

What things do you do to be a role
model for your children/other young
people?
As a role model, I think that I have
been gifted with compassion and the
ability to listen. My sisters, MPD family,
and even strangers are compelled
to share very personal parts of their
lives and that makes me feel that they
can trust me. Oftentimes, I don’t know
what makes a person walk up to me
and share an intimate part of themselves,
but I can only assume that from
character, demeanor and spirit, they
see someone who is doing her very
best to live a life of authenticity and integrity.