Tag Archives: #dailyprompt

Three books that had an impact on me

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Daily writing prompt
List three books that have had an impact on you. Why?
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The Books That Stayed With Me

I read 100 books last year, so trying to narrow that down to three feels almost impossible. But I love this prompt, so I’m giving it a try—not by ranking, but by naming the books that lingered. The ones that shaped how I think, how I move, how I pray, and how I see the world.

Rebecca Not Becky

Catherine Wiggington Greene & Christine Platt

This book challenged me in necessary ways. It forced me to sit with hard truths about race, faith, and performative allyship, especially within Christian spaces. It asked questions many people are uncomfortable asking and named dynamics many people prefer to ignore. It didn’t just inform me; it unsettled me, and that’s often where growth begins. It may be as a black woman look at the lived experience of white women in a different way and that was a good thing.

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

John Mark Comer

This book felt like a mirror. It confronted my pace, my productivity, and my quiet addiction to busyness. It reframed spiritual maturity not as doing more for God, but being more with God. In a culture that rewards exhaustion, this book gave me permission—and conviction—to slow down and reorder my life around presence instead of pressure. I love the way he writes, so friendly and conversational, plus he reads a ton so he has a lot of references, which I loved. I enjoy everything he writes and he is a Millenial like me.

Twelve Ordinary Men

John F. MacArthur

John MacArthur is a OG in bible study. What I appreciate about this book is that it was easy to understand and apply to everyday life. What stood out to me most here was the reminder that God consistently works through ordinary people. No polish. No platforms. Just availability, obedience, and time. It challenged the modern obsession with gifting and influence and pulled me back to faithfulness. A quiet but grounding read.

The 1619 Project

Nikole Hannah-Jones

This wasn’t just educational—it was clarifying. It reframed American history in a way that demands honesty and maturity. It reminded me that truth-telling is an act of courage, and that understanding the past is essential if we’re serious about shaping a better future. This book expanded my lens and deepened my resolve.

Awakening

Stovall Weems

This book landed at the right time. It spoke to leadership, repentance, and the cost of ignoring internal warning signs. It was sobering and reflective, especially for anyone in ministry or influence. A reminder that spiritual awakening often comes after painful honesty.

Razorblade Tears

S.A. Cosby

This one surprised me. Beneath the violence and grit was a deeply human story about grief, masculinity, fatherhood, and redemption. It was raw and uncomfortable, but also tender in unexpected places. Proof that fiction can sometimes tell the truth in ways nonfiction can’t. S.A. Cosby is soo good. Once I read this book, I wanted to read everything by him.

Final Thoughts

Looking at this list now, I notice a theme: formation.

These books shaped me spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally. They slowed me down, stretched me, and asked more of me than passive consumption.

If you’re looking for reads that don’t just entertain but transform, these are a good place to start.

The best ones don’t end when you turn the last page…they keep working on you long after.

Writing about Dominique

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Daily writing prompt
Write about your first name: its meaning, significance, etymology, etc.
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What’s in a Name?

I love this prompt. A name is so important. It’s one of the first things we’re given, long before we understand who we are or what we’ll become. A name is spoken over us before we can speak for ourselves.

My first name is Dominique.

Dominique means “belonging to God.”

I didn’t know that growing up. I’m pretty sure my parents didn’t either. There was no deep theological conversation, no baby-name book marked with meaning and origin. I was told my name came from the culture of the time. Either Dominique Devereaux from Dynasty or Dominique Wilkins, the basketball player.

It was the 80s. What could you expect?

A Name Before Its Meaning

For most of my life, Dominique was just a name. Something I answered to. Something teachers mispronounced. Something people commented on—“That’s different,” “That’s pretty,” “Is it French?”

It wasn’t until much later that I learned its actual meaning. Belonging to God. Of the Lord. Dedicated to God.

And when I learned that, it hit differently.

Not dramatically at first. A realization that settled slowly and then began to explain things I hadn’t had language for before.

Belonging Changes Everything

To belong to God isn’t just poetic. It’s directional.

It implies ownership, yes—but also care, responsibility, and purpose. It means you are not random. Not self-made. Not drifting without direction, even when it feels like you are.

Looking back, the meaning of my name explains a lot:

  • Why striving never fully satisfied me
  • Why people-pleasing always felt exhausting
  • Why I felt tension when I was busy but not aligned
  • Why I kept circling back to faith, purpose, and obedience even after seasons of distance

I spent years trying to belong everywhere—work, relationships, roles—when my name had already answered the belonging question.

The Irony of the 80s Inspiration

I think it’s fitting, actually, that my name came from pop culture icons of the 80s. A glamorous TV character. A dominant athlete. Strength, visibility, confidence, success.

And yet the deeper meaning of my name isn’t about image or dominance in the worldly sense.

What started as a cultural choice became a spiritual calling.

Living Into a Name

I don’t believe names determine destiny in a mystical way. But I do believe they can reveal something true when we’re ready to see it.

My name reminds me, especially in seasons when I’m tired, striving, or unsure, that I don’t have to prove myself into worth or earn my place.

I already belong.

And maybe that’s the work of a lifetime: not becoming someone new, but remembering who you’ve always been.

Daily Writing Prompt Reflection:
If you’ve never looked up your name, I highly recommend it. Not because it will tell you who you must be—but because it might gently remind you who you already are.

Sometimes meaning catches up later. And sometimes, it was there all along.

Can we have it all?

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Daily writing prompt
What does “having it all” mean to you? Is it attainable?
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Having it all means you have everything you want in life and there are no gaps. I unfortunately don’t think that you can have it all. There is a quote from Oprah that says you can have it all, but just not all at the same time. I believe this statement more. Everything costs and a person can’t be in more than one place at a time.

What is enough?

I feel like trying to “have it all” you are constantly chasing your tail because it’s never enough. You start making money, you want more money, you buy a nice house, then you want a nicer house, have one kid, folks start rushing you to have another. The goal keeps moving.

I don’t know about you, but I find it very difficult to give 100% at work, 100% to my husband and 100% to my kids, I didn’t add my other roles as a daughter, sister, friend.

I think trying to have it all can lead to burnout and unrealistic expectations.

Redefining “Enough”

Finding peace and contentment involves redefining what “enough” means to you personally. Here are some steps to consider:

  1. Identify Core Values: Determine what truly matters to you. This might include meaningful work, quality time with loved ones, personal growth, or health and well-being. Prioritizing based on your core values can help you allocate your time and energy more effectively.
  2. Set Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming for perfection in every area, set achievable goals that align with your values. Recognize that it’s okay to excel in some areas while maintaining a balance in others.
  3. Practice Gratitude: Regularly reflecting on what you are grateful for can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. This practice can enhance your sense of contentment and reduce the constant desire for more.
  4. Embrace Imperfection: Accept that you cannot be perfect in all your roles. Allow yourself to be human, make mistakes, and learn from them. This acceptance can reduce stress and increase overall well-being.
  5. Quality Over Quantity: Focus on the quality of your efforts and interactions rather than the quantity. Deep, meaningful connections and achievements often bring more satisfaction than spreading yourself too thin.

“Having it all” might be an elusive goal, but finding a fulfilling balance is achievable. By redefining what “enough” means for you, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing your core values, you can lead a more content and balanced life. Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection in every role but about finding harmony and satisfaction in the journey.

Legacy

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What is the legacy you want to leave behind?

The legacy I want to leave behind is one of significance and impact. My pastor talks all the time about being significant vs being successful. Being successful is often about making a lot of money which is cool but I want to also change lives.

I want to leave behind words that will change people, that will inspire and encourage them to be the best version themselves.

I talk about God a lot on my blog and not because I’m some kind of Jesus freak but because I want people to know that to be the best version of themselves they need God to help them.

It’s not about rules and regulations but relationship with Him.

I hope my legacy is one of empowerment and growth, instilling confidence in people and leading them to God or back to him in a way that seems accessible in folks everyday lives.

I want my legacy to show people that if I can achieve my dreams, then they can too. It’s about knowing that with faith, determination, and the right mindset, anything is possible. My journey hasn’t been easy, but through the highs and lows, my faith has kept me grounded and driven.

Ultimately, I want my life to be a testament to the transformative power of faith and perseverance. I want people to see that true significance comes from positively impacting the lives of others, and that success is not just measured by what we gain, but by what we give. My hope is that through my words and actions, I can leave a lasting legacy that reflects the love, grace, and strength that comes from a life lived with purpose and faith.

What gives you direction in life?

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”The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.“

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT

Two things give me direction in life, one is the Lord, two is my purpose or my why.

The Lord seems like an obvious choice but sometimes I feel like he is a background character in people’s lives or a relative they only see on Sundays. If they do that.

He gives me direction because we talk everyday. I consult him before I make decisions. Not in the middle, of after things go wrong but before, during the planning process.

I allow time for him to give me ideas and I’m also open to his feedback. I do that by reading my Bible and not feeling my head with things that could take up space and crowd out what God is trying to say.

My why keeps me grounded when things get are hard. When I’m in a tough season, I know the work I’m doing isn’t fruitless because it will eventually pay off. The seeds I’m planting now are falling on fertile ground.

When I tap into my why it helps me prioritize what’s important and what’s not. Is this decision getting me closer to my goals? Will this action help future me or hinder her?

I know you probably see godly in that verse and think oh I’m not good enough for God to direct my steps but that isn’t true. If you are open to Him, he takes you as you are. He just wants you to accept the invitation.

Do you feel like you don’t know your purpose? Read this post I wrote about finding your purpose.

If you feel like you don’t know God very well just ask him to come in. He is always there, waiting for you.

Daily writing prompt

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Daily writing prompt
Describe one habit that brings you joy.
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One habit that brings me joy is my daily quiet time with God. There are not many things that will make me miss that time. I get to pour my heart out, whether things are going good or bad I know that talking to God will help me feel better. During this time, I journal, I read scriptures, I pray. The beautiful thing is that it doesn’t have to be a long time. It doesn’t have to be anything profound. I ask God to help me get through the day, I tell him what I am worried or stressed about, I give my day to him. He always listens and rarely interrupts. He is my bestfriend. Since we speak so often I know his voice and when I have questions he always answers. He may not give me the answer I want, but he rarely leaves me on read. lol. When I don’t have the time to make my appointment with God, I just don’t feel 100% but the awesome thing about God is that because he is always with me, I can talk to him anytime. Joy is a gift, a fruit of the spirit, but it also something we cultivate. We help it grow by our actions or we diminish it with our actions. Seek out things that bring you joy, it will help you feel good through out your days.

Broken

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Broken-
having been fractured or damaged and no longer in one piece or in working order 

(of a person) having given up all hope; despairing.

I used to think I was broken using both definitions. That I was living a lie, that I was going out in the world and acting like everything was ok when it wasn’t. I felt like something inside of me was broken and could not be fixed. I had a hole in my heart that was irreparable. I tried a lot of this but nothing could fill it, not partying, not work, not my friends, not my husband, everything I was trying to do wasn’t working.

So in my last resort I turned to God. I’m glad I did. I learned I’m not broken. God made me this way. He has plans for me that are good. I didn’t always believe that or understand but I stayed in the word. It made a huge difference on my outlook in life. There is beauty in my brokenness. I wouldn’t have grown in my relationship with God if I wasn’t broken. Everyday is practice in reminding myself that I have to meet no one expectations but my own.

If you feel broken just know you don’t have to stay that way. There is a way out. You won’t be able to do it on your own, not long lasting. Getting out of your head and closer to God is the only long term solution and potentially seeing a therapist.

Updated: since I wrote the above words Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain have both committed suicide. This has sparked debate about what role does prayer and God specifically play in mental health. I think that God is our first resource in working on our mental health. Getting into your bible, prayer, fasting, meditating, it’s all an important part of the healing process. We can’t do it on our own and believing you can may be a fatal mistake. You need tools to overcome things you have been through. Seek help if you need it.

Awkward

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via Daily Prompt: Awkward

awkward-causing or feeling embarrassment or inconvenience

Why is everyone so scared to be awkward? Issa Rae had a book and YouTube series about being an Awkward Black Girl. (the language is pretty bad, but its also pretty funny) I can identify with some of how she felt. I don’t think I am super socially awkward but I am human, so I am sure I have my moments. I think a lot, so I make sure I avoid it at all costs. Sometimes I avoid being awkward so much that I let things linger that probably shouldn’t. How long is to long to not talk to someone? How long is too long to not hang out with them? There is no beef but so much time has passed it feels awkward to make the call.

chuck swindoll

My friends say you don’t have to explain your absence, people just want to be reached out, thought about. Which in theory makes sense, but that initial conversation, what if its weird? What if the person is mad? What if the magic is gone?

I wrote a while back about spiritual growth being about reacting differently to the same situation and I want to, but then the whole issue of being awkward comes up and I start to think is it worth it? Embarrassment is a hard thing to get over and vulnerability is too. How do you tell someone its not you, its me? Would they even accept that? Can we go back to being what we were before? Do we want too? Can you trust me again? They say time heals all wounds but I just don’t know about that.

time heals

I try to look at it if one of my friends came back to me after a long hiatus like hey whats up we should hang out. Would I be upset? Probably not, but things don’t necessarily bother me like they bother other people. I am going to take the plunge real soon and see how it goes. I have held this off for too long. God doesn’t want me holding on to anything. I could be blowing this situation up in my mind and making it worse than what it is. I won’t know until I pick up the phone. I will let you know my progress.

 

 

 

 

Fret

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href=”https://dailypost.wordpress.com/prompts/fret/”>Fret</a&gt;

Fret-be constantly or visibly worried or anxious.

Evildoers is harsher than what I’m thinking however, I’m not excluding anyone. People who cut corners, people who step on other people to get to the top, people who don’t geniuninely deserve the good things they are getting. I am talking about them. Its hard to watch people who just skate by in life get things when you work super hard and don’t get anything. It just doesn’t seem fair.

Looking on social media, you see people get famous for doing nothing, while you have been working your tail off and nobody know’s your name. Don’t feel discouraged. It won’t last though. When you rise fast, sometimes you crash fast as well.

Roots have to be established and when things happen too quickly you can’t set down any roots. Overcoming adversity is what helps you when trouble comes. Trouble will come and those people who are winning won’t be prepared.

God is allowing to them prosper for a little while but it won’t last. Continue to work hard. Hard work will last, not scheming and getting over,so don’t get discouraged.

Thwart

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via Daily Prompt: Thwart

Thwart-prevent someone from accomplishing something

Have you unconsciously thwarted someone when they shared their dream with you? You may not have said the words, you can’t do this, but your facial expression, your tone, the questions you asked them may show that you don’t believe in what they are trying to do.

Did you disregard someone’s dream? Did you think it was ridiculous? I know we are not supposed to be concerned with what other people think but we are human. We someone close to you makes a disparaging comment it sticks. I told my friend once I wanted to write a book and she looked at me and said, “You want to write a book?” It was how she asked me, like what makes you think you can write a book. I don’t think she meant any malice behind it but it still hurt me.

Its one thing to have someone be realistic, but its another to be a dream killer. Its not anyone else’s responsibility to tell someone they need to get themselves together when they are still in the planning stages. People sometimes just want to say the words out loud. They are not asking for your opinion. Be mindful of how you treat your friends, your family, your colleagues. If they felt comfortable enough to share something so important, the least you can do is offer a little encouragement. If it isn’t going to work, they will eventually find out on their own, they don’t need that push from you.