An important lesson learned while recording my first album...

While at Tate Music Group, I learned a very valuable lesson that I want to share with you because I think many people, young or old, go through similar situations. I felt very self conscious about my weight, my age, my looks, my voice, etc., as we recorded and I started to wonder who would listen to my music.  I love it, but will anyone else?  Will I relate to anyone? I would sometimes second guess myself with making this album, which was silly because I know the Lord directed me to do it, He was answering every single prayer of mine and everything ended up being optimal, truly as best as it could be. However, then I would wonder if my best is good enough, even though Tate Music Group felt it was or else they wouldn't be publishing my music.

Many of you know those negative voices in your head that you tell yourself, that cause you to feel inferior, inadequate and even ashamed. I am so thankful for a Christian publisher and Christian music producers, who helped me get things into perspective. They told me that you have to be yourself, don't try to sing like someone else or wish you looked like someone else, just be the best YOU that you can be. Some singers like Johnny Cash didn't have the best voice, but many loved him and his music. Others have a lot of talent, but that doesn't mean that everyone is going to love their style of music. Everyone has their niche market, people whom they can reach. People have different styles and needs and wants, and if you start getting bogged down with what others think of you, then you won't be of much use.

There will always be critics and people who are mean and don't like you, and then others who are supportive and kind and love you. Do what the Lord is directing you to do, don't look back, and don't defeat yourself with negativity. There is a beauty in someone who is confident in who they are. If there are areas to change and improve that are correctable, then work on that, but be encouraged, not discouraged with the process. If you can't change something, then accept it. There are many different voices out there, some with more strength, others with more fullness, others sweet, others bold, etc. These aren't right or wrong, just different. Embrace who you are, and do it to your very best, and allow the Lord to use it as He sees fit. Remember that the glory belongs to Him. Don't slide down the pit of trying to please everyone, as that brings glory to yourself. People are fickle, so praise and glamour and attention is only temporary and fleeting anyway. It's not secure. Serving the Lord in obedience to Him will bring eternal rewards that are secure.

With singing, it's really cool when someone recognizes a voice. "Oh, I know who that is. That is __________." I think my voice would fit in that category, as it is unique. However, I want my voice, whatever it is, to be a blessing to others, and proclaim life, and hope, and encouragement.  That is in my power to accomplish, through God's grace and mercy. You can accomplish that also!

I was also glad that I stayed true to myself as far as style, what I wore, how I conducted myself in the video and photo shoot, etc. I feel really good that I did not in the end try to be someone else that I am not. It is a great feeling at the end of the day! I was also glad that the folks at Tate Music Group did not try to get me to be someone I am not. They totally respected who I am. Try to keep that in mind when venturing out through various avenues, companies, businesses, creative arts, etc.. Don't let anyone pressure you to be something that is not good, or true to who you are in Christ. They are not worth it if they try to get you to compromise good standards, or even at times certain preferences. Just make sure what you do is pleasing to the Lord, and follow His guidelines in Scripture, and you can't go wrong!

If you have ever felt down about what the Lord has given you, as far as appearance, ability, talent, brain power, background, ethnicity, material possessions - whatever it may be, be encouraged, and see what He wants you to do with what you have been given. Then do it! Do it wholeheartedly with joy in your heart and a smile on your face, and you will emit beauty and love that comes from the Lord, ministering grace and even healing to your hearers.