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WRITTEN R ETURN issue one May 2015 Introducing Bio monthly digital publication

Written Return / Issue one

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Featuring: Elijah Padi, Thembinkosi Dike and many more. Impact over celebrity! sound mind over loud mouth!

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WRITTENR

ETURNissue oneMay 2015

IntroducingBio monthly digital publication

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OrderChapters

A thought for the seeker:Main feature, will always carry title story.For our 1st issue we look at an Article by Matome kgatle “They are doing what I don’t like”

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Faith Acts.Stories of how someone expressed their faith through business, or perhaps helping fellow man, or achieve an “impossible” goalFor our first feature we speak to “Elijah Padi” Life coach and motivational speaker

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SLICES:Mass media and social media affects us deeply and often dictates our world view. In slices we look at a trending topic and rope in one of our “wise” contributors to give it a smash. to respond to slices #slices @WritternReturn2

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** PASSWORD**Stories and features for teenagers and young adults from their perspective. Dating, choosing a career, puberty, purity (basics of the faith) eight

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AnomalyWe love positive content. Culture building and daring message through the arts. We want to encourage you to support and nourish upcoming content creators who do great art. For our first feature we speak to Thembinkosi, aka TD Jokes

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WARNING: This is your normal magazine, just done a little bit differently. we are driven more by conviction and less by religion. If we do it the way you don’t like. Engage and lets grow. we will feature your best and worst moments in hopes of showing redemption as we experience it.

We begin with the editor’s introductions, a history and synopsis

Issue one: In this issue we introduce our line up and feel. We hope to feature you or someone making waves close to you, we don’t go for celebrities but impact makers. If you enjoy the content, please share.

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Matome Kgatle

A thought for the seeker:It might be a TV show, music genre, communication style or dress sense we all have to confront this monster at some point. Most of us figure we are very open-minded people and don’t mind people “doing their own thing”. However the often negative comments, especially on social media would prove we are not as open minded as we think.

This subject gets muddier when you bring religion into the picture. Many believers, Christian and other religions as well have a tendency to spiritualize their opinion when contesting a thought or idea. I once heard a youth minister say they will not listen to Hip-Hop because it has “spiritual dark roots”, another argued the same with our indigenous music styles. I even heard of a minister who forbade people from clapping or making any noise in a perish. Well I doubt you would find me in there. Our African expressions come naturally and to say they are wrong is a matter of an opinion, to further turn it into doctrine is obscene.

The fact is what you don’t like about me, does not make me “bad or wrong” sometimes what you don’t like about me is the very thing that defines me. It’s the lifeblood of my purpose and design. It’s the very reason for my being. Pioneers in history were often accused of being wasteful or crazy just for exploring their talents. The now Late Andrea Crouch was accused many times in the 70’s and 80’s of compromising the gospel and making his music too worldly, Kirk Franklin did not escape this criticism as well for collaborating with unbelievers. When BeBe Winans decided that though he is a believer he is going to sing exclusively R&B he was attacked for more than a decade being called very evil things. Billy Graham was attacked many times for “befriending” politicians and influential people. Someone had an idea that his job was to only tell them that their going to hell” All these things are now socially acceptable and some scripturally proven to be correct. The question is who and what are we attacking now that will prove to be a revelation when we look back on it ten years from now? God has not called you to be popular but to fulfil a mission; best you enjoy the work and let him have the rest. Glory or pain.

Let us continue with our discourse. These are some of the reasons why often people dislike certain things or movements.

Mini

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Influence one: Culture. We all operate from a distinct, strong and inherited cultural influence. I vividly remember when I started working how shocked I was about how my young white colleague spoke to the older white and black co-workers. The frankness of his communication and sometimes making fun of them was unfamiliar to me because of my upbringing and culture. I was raised in a Pedi culture were we addressed older people with the “royal plural” never calling them “you” but “my mother” etc. At first I thought my co-worker was wrong but I soon realized that the older white parents did not only condone his way of communication, but that’s exactly how they raised their children as well. To see everyone as an equal and challenge people on ideas and thoughts, not just their age. I was caught up in a cultural dogma. I appreciate my culture, many of its teachings agree with the Bible and have given me great relationships. However I need to be careful not to make that influence law or doctrine.

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If I don’t like the way someone does something I have to ask myself a question. Am I influenced by my culture not to like that? If so I need to engage with the person on rules we both understand not my bias stance. A grade that can help is the word of God. Even if they don’t accept it, at most it will benefit you to know the difference between “culture shock” and hating something. Shock often does not last. Many hate mini skirts only to wear them tomorrow. If you understand why you dislike it, maybe you can make a stronger decision about it.

Influence two: Time and purpose One of my favourite authors in history is the late CS Lewis. He was a respected author and Christian apologetic. He had a great imagination and told the story of the Bible through “fictional stories” these stories had depictions of witches, demons, angels, lions. He wrote about fascinating and mysterious creatures, which would leave “Ben 10” creators in shame.

The interesting thing about CS Lewis is that though he grew up, schooled and wrote these books in England, these stories were never popular in England. In fact people thought they were childish and never gave them a light of day. It was only many years after when his book reached the borders of America that they suddenly became in demand. Today his works are treasured worldwide and he is held in high esteem as one of the greatest Christian authors and thinkers to ever engage and challenge positive cultural development.

The question remains, why didn’t the British embrace his content? Because of time and purpose. Often people will not like a thing and even criticize it because the treasure in it has not yet become clear to them. I used an example of Kirk franklin earlier. I remember how he was attacked and called names, now after many Grammies and touching every part of the globe with his beautiful music, almost everyone agrees, he is a great gift. So when you criticize someone or something just remember a year from now, secretly or publicly you will be supporting them. When God’s time and purpose are clear.

If there are people who don’t particularly understand or appreciate your set of gifts or want to turn you into something that already exist like “evangelist or something” remember it’s the spirit that offers the gifts. However the gifts are varied but all form an essential part of the body. Don’t be a copycat, be you.

Don’t tone it down continue to build your platform and content. A day is coming when people won’t hardly have enough of your gift and they will want more and more. Remember that when Lira came on the music scene they told her, No! Do “kwaito” what you have in mind wont sell, the same for Micasa, the same for you. People will criticize you because they don’t have a sense of time and purpose.

Influence three: it’s not for youThe reason you don’t like some of the things others do is because their not meant for you. Time and age can be a factor. I however think that’s a minor factor. Not everything is intended for your heart, there are many others whom the Lord will not be able to find unless He uses that specific vehicle. I remember many years ago when I first came to art school to study design. I met a young, black lady who played a trumpet and was part of a jazz band. I was startled as at that time I thought jazz was for old people, however giving an ear and eye through reading I have come to enjoy the art form and understand it’s a base from which many musicians practice the soul of true music and are able to venture into other areas. A great example being

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Kirk Whalum or Richard Smallwood, who is popular for the song “Total Praise” if it was not for him and his classical piano we would not have many of the musicians and songs we have today.

My encouragement is if you don’t like something give it time, if still you don’t jell. Leave it alone but don’t attack it. It’s meant for someone else. Yes you don’t watch cartoons anymore. Are they useless? No! Kids learn from them daily, they are meant for someone else. If you don’t like a certain musician, please don’t say they are evil. Say I don’t like them. I assure you if you listen to Amazing grace in Arabic and old Jewish signing you will hate it. It sounds weird to this African ear, but the music is great. God is God of all time, the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Can you imagine the scope of his comprehension when it comes to culture and variety? He looks on the heart. Those who find it relevant will find help in it. It might be Lecrae, Lulu Dikana, VaShawn Mitchell, Nicole C. Mullen, U2, ColdPlay, Citizen Band, David Crowder, MALI, Pascaline etc.

Next time you think “they are doing what I don’t like” remember “They like it”. I’ts not about you. If it impacts others positively support it, if it’s negative, find a way to be constructive and bend it in the right direction by putting support and money behind it so that they can keep it “good”. It’s all about loving people genuinely from the inside.

1 John 4:18Amplified Bible (AMP)18 There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love [a]turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear [b]brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love’s complete perfection].

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MEET THE TEAMmabusha kgatle / editorRefiloe Lebepe /contributes on variuos topicsNompumelelo / On call poet and melancolic author matome kgatle / design and writer

WRITTEN RETURN

@WRITTEN RETURN

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Mpho is listenin

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to music

by: w

XXX

Stories and features for teenagers and young adults from their perspective. Dating, choosing a career, puberty, purity (basics of the faith)

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PEER PRESSURE, THE AFTERMATH

How much influence could one say our peers have on us? I would say a lot. No matter what anyone may say or think, our lives revolve around what is happening around us. We make decisions based on what our peers think is “hip” or “cool”, we do things because our friends are doing those very same things. We are constantly looking for approval from those we value and see as our friends.

Our performance whether good or bad, at work or in school or even the attitude we portray is based on the company we keep. A lot of teens today engage in drugs and alcoholism and pre marital sex because “everyone is doing it”.

It is my opinion that a lot of fatalities involving our youth today are due to the fact that somehow someone thought it would be awesome to do that and at the end we end up with teens caught drinking and driving. Missing school to go do drugs and watch their lives waste away.

Teenage pregnancy is also in my opinion, one aftermath that can be attributed to peer pressure, otherwise, why else would a child in primary school be engaging in sexual intercourse instead of playing with dolls and having play dates.

Even in the midst of the bad influences that exist, there are good influences such as good performances in school and healthy lifestyles because our friends and peers are doing just that and we decide to challenge ourselves.

We have allowed ourselves to be a generation that is easily influenced by our peers and more so our surroundings. If we are going to be influenced, we should aim for positive influences. If we do not have a stand we will fall for anything.

by MPHO MALONGANE

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We speak to Mr Elijah Padi about life as a coach. Big picture living, Empowering beliefs, relationship and much much more!

FAITH ACTS

Mr Padi is a man of many gifts and talents, highly effective in the area of personal development. As a public figure many have an idea of who he is, but the question is. How does he define himself? Elijah is a chosen messenger of God who is able to see the bigger picture. He was born in the then dusty township of Atteridgeville in 1976. He is known as an inspirational leader with a supportive yet challenging leadership style that motivates both teams and individuals to live a purpose driven life. He is an acclaimed author of the best-selling book “The relationship I desire” as well as the relationship I desire programme for couples. He is an attentive and engaging motivational speaker. His successes and achievements are based on a passion for people development and empowerment.

It’s always very enteresting hearing how people discover their talents and calling. In response to the question at what age he started to discover his gift Elijah reflects on the following;When I was 5 years old I had a dream, and I shared it with my mother. In the dream I was chosen out of many people to lead them. I never forget that dream. While I was in varsity I started reading the bible in order to know more about God as well as to confirm my purpose. The spirit of God guided me and taught me a lot about spiritual matters. I also started reading many books on psychology, neuro science, biology, and physiology. I also started attending seminars and life coaching classes.

You are among other callings and duties, a life coach. Please define coaching in a general way, its value in families and corporations. How does one measure if the coaching is working or not?Life Coaching is the science of achieving a sustainable and fulfilled life, and the art of accelerating personal growth through the conscious realignment of positive beliefs and life affirming values.

Coaching can help to:• Remove limiting beliefs.• Rid yourself of anger, pain, hurt, sadness, and guilt.• Believe in your potential, talents and abilities.• Plan and live a fruitful life.• Raise your standard• Be resourceful• Be courageous and confident• Be empowered to empower others; and• Be self sufficient One can say coaching is successful when the coachee is

living a fruitful and fulfilling life, when a person has renewed his or her mind.

Elijah Padi

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We threw a tangent at Elijah and asked: A lot of young couples buy into a myth that an “ideal relationship” does not have problems, or see any outside person as intruding if they try to help. What’s the value of voluntary relationship coaching, and how must couples deal with correction from outside parties? No relationship is without problems, all relationships will face some challenges at some point simply because relationships are made up of two individuals from different backgrounds, different programming, different value systems, and different beliefs. Couples will at some point experience clashes in values or beliefs and this will inevitably cause conflict. It is always advisable for couples to seek a different perspective from a third party or an outsider because their perspective may be limited to only their experiences and programming, and their perspective may not be the most effective or efficient one.

Thank you. You answered the previous question masterfully. Here is another one. Building a business is the buzz word out there today. What kind of commitment does it take to make it? How do you encourage employees to make that journey with you? Building a business requires these four principles: A teachable spirit, faith, courage, and wisdom. Those who want to start their own business must first work on themselves, they must clarify their values, they must be prepared to raise their standards daily, and they must be prepared to adopt empowering beliefs. They must be patient, respectful, resilient, enduring and persevering. Remember, it takes a day to start a business, but It takes a lifetime to create a legacy.

We also asked Elijah about which other areas of focus and facilitation he focuses on, we wanted to further understand his scope in areas that he can help individuals and groups.(Elijah) I also focus on teen and youth coaching, leadership coaching, relationship coaching, spiritual coaching, men and women empowerment, and inspirational talks.

I think most of us will agree that Sales is an admired area of business, but feared industry because of pressure that comes with it. Elijah please gives us some tips on this area.

Whatever you’re selling, ultimately it’s YOU the customer is buying! Let me challenge you to ask yourself the following questions:

A. What am I really good at, what’s the Unique Selling Point about ME? (ask yourself 7 times)

B. What are my clients really buying? (ask yourself 7 times)

C. What am I really selling? (ask yourself 7 times)

D. Why should people buy from me?

E. What is the single biggest limiting stereotype my prospects have about my service?

F. What can I do to put it right?

G. If I now write just one compelling sentence about why my clients should buy from me instead of someone else, what will I write?

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Elijah is a Regular contributor on PowerFM, capricornfm,motswedingfm, Safm, sowetan and Pretoria newsFor additional information, follow Elijah Padi on the following platforms

http://www.elijahpadi.com http://www.theblv.co.zaFacebook: Elijah Padi / Twitter: @theblvcoachtheblv.co.za

You gotta make a choice.I made a choice.I am not going back to povertyI have been there and it is not a nice place to be. Make your

choice today!

Elijah Padi

In your opinion how does one find, choose and maintain a good relationship, including relationship with potential girl friend or boyfriend? It is important to view all relationships as a place where you go to give, and not to take. People should go into relationships to make them work, and not to see if they will work. Relationships are paramount for our survival. We all need to have meaningful, fruitful and lasting relationships with those who are dear to us. Always remember that there are no incompatible partners, only incompatible values.

Thank you so much for such valuable information. Trully a treasure. In closing everyone has something to say about God. What is the evidence of the presence of God in your life personally? It is important to note that God lives in us, and it is very easy to see the presence of the Lord in one’s life. In order for one to see God in my life, they must look at my conduct and they will see that it is representing God in that I am kind, generous, loving, self-controlled, joyful, gentle, and faithful. This is a pure manifestation of the Holy spirit in my life.

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so says social media, so says i

With good reason one can argue that since man fell in the garden, trouble and challenges have become the order of the day. We all expect to deal with a little bit of resistance when going out there everyday, but not murder, senseless killings and mayhem. Thats the best way to describe the surge of violence against mostly black Foreigners who reside within the borders of South Africa. The violence started in KZn and has now spread to other parts of the country including, of note Johannesburg.

The brutal death of Emmanuel Sithole Emanuel was murdered in daylight, in full view of the public. Though investigations are still underway the only reason pointing to his death, seeimingly is that he was a Mozambican citizen. The story is almost hard to believe. The coldness and bitterness of the perpetrators in my view borders on satanism.

Read the rest of the story as witnessed by journalists:http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2015/04/19/the-brutal-death-of-emmanuel-sithole1

There is no need for me or “Written Return” team to become self appointed judges on this matter, The bible response with the following take:

Leviticus 19:33-34 New International Version (NIV)

  

  

  

  

Hate and unforgiveness is an awful thing. If we find any excuse to allow it to fester it leads to even more dire consequences. Ephesians 4 New International Version (NIV)

  

  

 

I really don’t mean to Hogg this conversation. The purpose of slices is to discover what other notable leaders and everyday people have to say about this topic on social media. It’s not what we agree with, but what is out there. We encourage you to study, act and engage. In that order. matome

To support and join initiativesFacebook: Joburg Against Xenophobiato respond to slices #slices @WritternReturn2

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#MOFAYA

LIKE . COMMENT . SHARE

The difference between me and them is that I believe. I’m too stubborn. I was born a star. I refuse to lose. You have to believe you going to win. Any ounce of doubt you’re out. There will be winds, storms, huddles including facing death in the face. But NOTHING can stop a man who knows where he’s going. Don’t expect everyone to understand your journey, especially if they have never walked your path. The wealthiest 3% in the world are people who were told time and time again that their dreams were impossible. THEY NEVER LISTENED! Angizwa mina. I’m where I am today for that very same reason. NgiyaFOSTA and I can’t be stopped! #MoFaya is here to DOMINATE. Ayiyindawo! Like Josias said on my previous post: Apostle Paul said you can chain me all u want but God’s word in me, his favour, the source of talents, gift CAN’T be chained ~ 2 Timothy 2:9

Can’t talk about it if you haven’t lived it. I refuse to get into an argument with an intellectual who’s never built a brand or a company from scratch. They don’t know how its like to have doors shut in your face over and over. They can help get a company run from scratch.

But they don’t know how to lose it all & start afresh. They don’t know how it feels like to be broke, to downgrade, have debit orders bounce, be owed money by clients or government for months. They dont know how it feels like to owe people money, get death threats, lose relationships etc. They dont know how its like to believe in your dream so much that everyone thinks you’re an crazy.All they had/have was/is an education or training to move up the corporate ladder and work for entrepreneurs/risk takers/pioneers/visionaries etc...

Don’t get me wrong. I have thee most utmost respect for academics though Im not one. Thats why Im working so hard to acquire my MBA education though Im struggling and failing. Let’s help, let’s learn, grow, build, achieve etc..But until you’ve been in my shoes, please don’t pass judgement because

Skinny Sbu Socks @skinnysbusocksThis is how @djsbu and I use our freedom. Senz’umathanda Our own productsOur own brandsOur streetsOur... http://fb.me/35wOiRqjW

Jan Jasto Woyiwoyi: mofaya we proudly south african lets support mzansi things

Fortunate Nomo and u inspire me every day dat all I want now is to start my own business.im studying so I can build my own dream

Prince Manana Black pp like to criticize each other too much man. Its annoying sometimes. This man is a genius. True entrepreneur. Fears nothing. Reminds me of the Mzekezeke brand.

comments

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The first time we were introduced to TD Jokes was at an event hosted by Parable Magazine in Midrand, Johannesburg. He was definitely the highlight of the night. I remember the skinny, almost serious looking guy stepping on stage and I wondered what’s about to happen? Needless to say I have never forgot his name, after that explosion of laughter, we seemingly lost track of time, we were engulfed into the man’s gift and he left us thirsty for more.

We are so humbled that on this spotlight section of the magazine, dedicated to “Anommalies” in the entertainment industry we begin with such an encredible gift.

Thembinkosi It seems like you just “came out of nowhere” Who is TD Jokes? Give us a short synopsis of your background.TD Jokes is Thembinkosi Dike born in King William’s Town in Pakamisa in the Eastern Cape. I sometimes find it difficult to answer this question because I haven’t yet found a simple and straight

to the point way of describing who I am because I see myself as an assortment of diverse personalities that make up who I am. I’m a young man who has a vision of making a positive impact in people’s lives and I happen to be blessed with more ways than one in ensuring that I fulfill this mandate. I believe God has favoured me with a robe of many colours so that I can be whatever I need to be for that particular person I come across with in life, depending on what needs they have in their life at that precise moment.

Thembinkosi DikeAnomaly

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Commedy is a fairly new industry in South Africa, it only recently became mainstream. Was comedy your first choice of career? If not what tangents lead you into finally taking the leap?

I’ve always loved comedy. I grew up watching sitcoms with my brothers, even though I couldn’t understand English at the time I would laugh whenever the audience started laughing. My older brother has always been a fan of comedy, so I would watch with him. I can safely say he introduced me to stand up comedy, but never in my life did I ever think I would be a comedian.

I went to school and did Journalism and that’s exactly what I became, a journalist. Outside my career I only had interest in motivational speaking, which was the main reason why I took a step of faith in 2011 and moved to Johannesburg because I wanted to be a successful motivational speaker. It’s only when I was in Joburg that I received a call from my childhood friend from East London who suggested that I do Christian stand up comedy and he was willing to include me on the lineup of a show he was organizing. After hesitating I finally decided to give it a try, so I went to perform and boy I had a great time on stage, so did my audience.

We most definitely thank God for that visionary friend. Do you feel limited by your faith in how you express yourself as a comedian? I mean you don’t swear, don’t make rude and derogatory jokes. Is that a challenge?I don’t consider “not swearing” to be a limit for me because that’s my lifestyle. It’s not like I get on stage and try hard not to swear. Being clean comes naturally and I get to teach other up and coming comedians that you don’t have to use vulgar language to be funny.

You once posted a very moving testimony on Facebook about the time you had no place to sleep and slept on a “door”. That was definitely no joke. What Lead you to those circumstances and how did you rise above them?

I was trying to get rid of the begging mentality and being dependent on other people, so I told myself I will find my feet in the city of Joburg. I did not have a job, my comedy career had just kicked-off and I wasn’t making anything from it. I only survived with the little money my mother would send me once a month.

I was renting a room in a dusty township of Phumula in the East of Joburg and I couldn’t afford a bed. I was sleeping on the floor on a sponge I had bought when I moved in the room. I got tired of sleeping on the floor, so I took an old door that was not used and made myself a bed. I miss my bed, hahaha kidding. Those were heart breaking times for me but what kept me going first of all is that I had kept people who believed in me around me. They encouraged and prayed for me every day. Two particular families that were there during my struggling times are the Mfekas and the Sibisis. My dream and vision kept me standing throughout those times because I believed that I will make it.

Something in me just wouldn’t let me give up, even when there were times when I just felt like going back home, I would think of why I came to Joburg. The plan was to leave with a belt of success and that I stop at nothing until I achieve that.

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Staggering testimony, thank you for your transparency. Jumping to the now, your career has taken off, you’re constantly featured on different media platforms and notable shows. What’s next for you? What is your mission and what are you still looking forward to?I’m currently on a tour for my one man show and the plan is to release a DVD. Everywhere I go people request for my DVD and I feel that at this point in my career it’s time I do it. There have also been a couple of TV appearances that I’ve been making and that has always been my dream. I believe I’m still on the right path and TV is next in my career. Just watch this space.

As you just indicated, Your currently on Tour #CrackedUpTour working on your first DVD hosted by your company? That is a huge accomplishment. Can you tell us about the importance of owning your content, being hands on in your career and using your talent for business.

facebook.com/tdike@tdjokes

It’s not easy and it’s not simple. I will be honest, I made a lot of mistakes and I learnt from them. If you are going to be hands on in your career, then your hands need to be carried by a strong team that’s dedicated to see you succeeding.

There is no way you can do everything, you will wear yourself out. With that said it’s a fulfilling experience because you get to do exactly what’s in your mind and heart, and you have people who advise you and come with their own ideas.

Thank you for sharing those expereiences, i am now going to throw a controvetial question at you. It seems Christians are always “copying” secular media and doing low-grade versions of things on TV, Radio etc. You however seem to have come out with fresh content. How do you ensure that you are the best, not just the best among Christians?

Being original is not as easy as we make it sound when we speak to a group of people giving our motivational talks. It’s hard work. In fact I believe nothing is 100% original, everything is somehow copied from something else. I keep myself fresh and relevant by being in touch with my own uniqueness. Meaning I look at how other people do something and I’ll probably do something similar to that but in my own unique way.

For some Christianity is a culture, to some it’s a religion or a set of rules they live by. What is it to you?I’m a rebel to that system because it’s not from God. To me it means I have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, and I can live a life that pleases Him with the help of the Holy Spirit. It’s a walk of faith, in that I don’t know if I will sin against God or not today, but I have faith I won’t. If I do sin I have faith He will forgive me when I acknowledge my sin and confess it.

Very inspiring thoughts. To add to that how do you groom and nourish your faith in God?Looks like I already jumped to this question in my previous answer. I apply Psalm 91 in my life, “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” I dwell in that secret place. One that nobody else knows about.

Is Entertainment something Christians should be putting money into? What’s the best way for us to support rising talents in the entertainment industry?If God has given us the ability to entertain people why shouldn’t we support it? I’m for the idea that Church shouldn’t be all dull and boring, it should be alive and attractive, and that’s when our gifts come to use. We need to support rising talents in our Churches because if we don’t they will find support elsewhere and they will leave Church.

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F R O M O U R B O O K M A R K

P R O PAGANDA

BIOGRAPHY

From the same soil that grew Jim Morrison, Tony Hawk, NWA, Snoop, & Kendrick Lamar, grows another LA native, Propaganda. What do you say about Propaganda? He’s a poet, political activist, husband, father, academic, & emcee. With LA flowing through his veins & armed with a bold message, Propaganda has assembled a body of work that challenges his listeners with every verse & reaches across the spectrum of pop culture. From aggressive battle raps to smooth introspective rhythms, Propaganda’s music will cause you to nod your head, but more importantly it will stretch your mind & heart.

http://www.humblebeast.com/propaganda/