The worthy person is grateful and mindful of benefits done to him. This gratitude, this mindfulness, is congenial to the best people.

A deep gratitude must be shown towards the whole just for the opportunity that you are, that you can meditate, that you can be silent, that you can laugh.

Of all the ‘attitudes’ we can acquire, surely the attitude of gratitude is the most important and by far the most life-changing.

Am so grateful for another day#thankful #gratitude @followers @friends

Today's Blessings

Today is a gift — a quiet reminder that life continues to unfold with moments of grace, growth, and gratitude. Even in its smallest details, today holds blessings worth noticing.

The morning light breaking through the clouds reminds us that each day brings new hope. The air we breathe, the strength in our bodies, the beating of our hearts — these are silent miracles we often overlook.

There's a blessing in connection: a kind word, a shared smile, the presence of loved ones, or even a stranger’s unexpected kindness. These small acts bring warmth to the soul.

There’s also a blessing in challenge — in the chance to learn, to rise, and to prove to ourselves that we are capable. Struggles can be stepping stones. They shape character and deepen appreciation.

And perhaps most importantly, there's the blessing of choice: to start again, to forgive, to dream, and to keep moving forward.

May we not rush past today without acknowledging these simple but profound gifts. Let us carry gratitude like a quiet anthem through the hours, seeing not just what we lack, but all that we’ve been given.

Today is blessed — and so are we.

WAYS TO SHOW YOUR HUSBAND THAT YOU CARE AND LOVE HIM PRACTICALLY


1. Ask How His Day Was—and Really Listen. Show genuine interest in what’s happening in his life. Let him know you care about both the big and small things.

2. Give Him Your Undivided Attention. Put your phone down when you're talking. Eye contact and presence matter more than people often realize.

3. Respect His Opinions. Even if you disagree, value his perspective. Letting him be heard shows you care about who he is—not just what he does.

4. Tell him "I love you" regularly—and genuinely. Words carry power, especially when they're sincere.

5. Compliment Him Sincerely. Notice the good—his looks, his effort, his sense of humor, how he parents, or how he treats others—and say it aloud.

6. Covering him in prayer. No one knows him better than you do. Speak a blessing to him. Declare his greatness. To break a home, the head of the family gets attacked; he needs you to watch his back

7. Speak Well of Him to Others. Show respect when he’s not around. Uplifting him in front of family, friends, or coworkers builds trust and honor.

8. Cook His Favorite Meal. Food is love for many people. Surprise him with something he loves—even better if it’s homemade.

9. Initiate Regular love making with him. Affection and desire are powerful ways to connect. Let him know you still want and love him. S€xual activity communicates love and connection to a man.

10. Be faithful. Don't let him worry about the thought of you in the arms of another man. Responsible men value faithfulness; faithfulness to a man communicates loyalty

11. Initiate Physical Affection. Hold hands, hug him unexpectedly, or cuddle. Touch is a powerful expression of love and reassurance.

12. Surprise Him. A small gift, a random act of kindness, or an impromptu date night can brighten his whole week.

13. Appreciating him more than you complain. Notice and thank him for the everyday things he does—whether it's fixing something, going to work, or making you laugh. Say “Thank You” Often. Gratitude is one of the clearest ways to show care. Don't let the little things go unnoticed.Be the woman who sees his growth and effort as he strives to be better; not the woman keeping a score of the few times he falls and who makes him never forget his mistakes

14. Support His Goals. Encourage his dreams and interests, even if they’re different from yours. Be his cheerleader in public and private. Lift him up when he doubts himself. Let him hear that you believe in him and his potential.

15. Make sure he comes home to peace, not drama or quarrels or harsh questions the moment he enters the house. Does your man feel at home at home?

16. Add value financially. Whether by contributing to the financial earnings of the family or helping in managing the family finances well if he is the sole bread winner

17. Warn him with love when he is walking into fire. Problem is, some wives don't warn with love, they judge with bitterness. Speak to him with respect

18. Be His Safe Place. Offer comfort and understanding when he’s stressed or struggling. Let him be vulnerable without fear of judgement

19. Celebrate His Wins. Whether it’s a promotion, finishing a project, or just getting through a tough week—recognize his victories.

20. Speak His Love Language. Whether it’s acts of service, words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, or gifts—speak in the way he feels love most.

You will not fail in marriage in Jesus' name

*Focus on becoming the best version of yourself* rather than trying to be better than others. Shift your mindset from *external validation to internal satisfaction* and practice gratitude for what you have.

*Draw inspiration from others* but do not copy their path. Devote time to yourself and never hyper focused on someone to avoid *loosing sight of who you are.* Learn to Love Yourself.

*Have admiration instead of jealousy.* When you stop thinking of other people as your competition, *you can learn from them.* Compete against your negativity and be kind to yourself.

*The Lord said, if life does not go as you planned* then how you approach the bumps is very important. Embrace where you are and *stop worrying about where you need to be.*

Good morning Family

1. Talk about business instead of gossips
2. Talk about helping the vulnerable instead of mocking
3. Talk about peace instead of instigating
4. Talk about growth instead of people’s failures
5. Talk about ideas instead of people’s secrets
6. Talk about forgiveness instead of revenge
7. Talk about plans instead of people’s mistakes
8. Talk about kindness instead of hate
9. Talk about purpose instead of distractions
10. Talk about impact instead of insults
11. Talk about reading instead of rumors
12. Talk about patience instead of pressure
13. Talk about responsibility instead of blame
14. Talk about unity instead of division
15. Talk about change instead of complaints
16. Talk about discipline instead of disorder
17. Talk about progress instead of problems
18. Talk about creativity instead of criticism
19. Talk about calm instead of chaos
20. Talk about learning instead of laughing at others
21. Talk about truth instead of twisting stories
22. Talk about love instead of judgment
23. Talk about solutions instead of spreading fear
24. Talk about gratitude instead of grumbling

25. Talk about humility instead of pride
26. Talk about health instead of people’s bodies
27. Talk about goals instead of gossip
28. Talk about support instead of sarcasm
29. Talk about prayers instead of plotting
30. Talk about lifting others instead of looking down on them

What we choose to talk about shapes our environment and reveals our values. Fill your words with things that build, heal, and uplift. Replace mockery with encouragement, and let your conversations become a source of light in dark places. Be known for spreading peace, not drama.

When you finally make it in life, never forget *God*, who sustained you when no one else could, and those few people who stood by you when you had nothing to offer.

Success is sweet, but *gratitude* is what keeps you grounded. The hands that lifted you, the prayers spoken behind your back, the silent sacrifices others made for your comfort, don’t let success erase the memory of those moments.

*Stay humble. Stay thankful. Remember your roots

“We think we have to do something to be grateful or something has to be done in order for us to be grateful, when gratitude is a state of being.

The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep.
INSPIRATION:
Do you ever think that if you become rich, all of your problems would go away? From today’s verse, we learn that wealth brings its own set of anxieties. Fear of theft and loss can rob a rich person of sleep and peace. But the one who is sustained with daily bread from the Lord rests in comfort, knowing that God meets all of his needs.
PRAYER:
Gracious God, each day You sustain me and my family. Thank You for Your provision, which is always enough. I take comfort in Your faithfulness, and it is with gratitude that I take shelter in the shadow of Your wing. Grow me in contentment, so that You and Your grace may always be sufficient for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

THE DEVIL'S MISTRESS
FINALE
The grand villa, once a gilded cage echoing with tension and Amanda’s venomous whispers, had transformed into a sanctuary bathed in golden light and the vibrant hum of genuine joy. The "Welcome Home" party wasn’t just for Jessica; it was a rebirth for the entire household. Paper lanterns, reminiscent of the secret baby shower but multiplied a hundredfold, adorned every archway and balcony, casting a warm, celebratory glow. Lush floral arrangements overflowing with crimson hibiscus, golden birds of paradise, and fragrant white jasmine replaced the sterile opulence. The air thrummed with the infectious rhythms of highlife music and the laughter of Scar’s men – no longer just guards, but an extended family sharing in their leader’s profound relief and happiness.
Jessica stood near the sweeping staircase, a vision in flowing ivory silk. The lingering shadows of fear and hardship were gone, replaced by a radiant serenity that seemed to emanate from her very core. She watched Scar move through the crowd, his usual intimidating presence softened into an almost boyish delight. He greeted his men with firm handshakes and claps on the back, his deep laughter ringing out freely, a sound many hadn’t heard in years. His eyes, however, constantly sought hers, anchoring himself in her presence. Every few minutes, he would weave his way back to her, his hand finding the small of her back, his lips brushing her temple, a silent, possessive reassurance. "Mine. Safe. Home."
Amidst the joyful chaos, Scar spotted Ghost standing near the open terrace doors, a quiet sentinel observing the celebration. Chioma was beside him, her hand resting lightly on his arm. Scar excused himself from a conversation and walked towards them, his expression turning solemn. The music seemed to fade slightly as he approached.
"Ghost," Scar said, his voice low and thick with emotion. He stopped before the man who had been a shadow, a weapon, and ultimately, a savior.
Ghost straightened, his usual impassive mask in place, but his eyes held a flicker of wariness.
Scar didn’t offer a handshake. Instead, he placed both hands firmly on Ghost’s shoulders, a gesture of profound respect and intimacy reserved for the closest of brothers-in-arms. He looked directly into Ghost’s eyes, his own dark gaze unwavering and sincere.
"Words are cheap," Scar began, his voice rough. "But they are all I have right now to express what can never truly be repaid." He paused, the weight of the past months heavy in the silence. "You saved her life. You saved *my son’s* life. When I was blind with rage, walking in darkness, you were the one who held the light. You saw the truth when I refused to. You risked everything – your position, your life, my wrath – to protect Jessica when I couldn’t, when I *failed* her." Scar’s voice cracked slightly. "You brought her back. You kept her safe. You gave me back…" He glanced towards Jessica, his eyes softening, "...everything."
He squeezed Ghost’s shoulders. "My gratitude isn't just for tonight. It’s a debt etched into my bones. You have my loyalty, Ghost, not as an employer, but as a brother. Now and always. Whatever you need, whenever you need it – it’s yours. Without question." He finally released him, stepping back slightly, but the intensity of his gaze remained. "Thank you. For Jessica. For my son. For my life."
Ghost, a man of few words, swallowed hard. The stoic mask fractured, revealing a depth of emotion rarely seen. He gave a single, sharp nod, his voice gruff when he finally spoke. "Just bringing you home to what matters, Boss. To *who* matters." He glanced at Chioma, a softness touching his eyes. "We did it together."
Chioma beamed, tears glistening. Scar nodded, the profound understanding passing between them. He clasped Ghost’s hand firmly this time. "Together," he echoed. The moment solidified a bond forged in fire, stronger than any empire.
Weeks later, the villa was hushed, filled with a different kind of anticipation – sacred and primal. Jessica labored not in a sterile hospital, but in the sun-drenched master suite Scar had transformed into a birthing sanctuary. Chioma, now officially Jessica’s sister and confidante, was her unwavering pillar, alongside a trusted midwife. Scar paced the adjoining sitting room like the lion he was, his usual composure shattered. Every muffled cry from Jessica sent a jolt of terror and helplessness through him. He heard William’s low murmur trying to offer reassurance, but the powerful kingpin was reduced to a bundle of raw nerves, praying to deities he’d long ignored.
Then, cutting through the tense silence, came a new sound – a strong, indignant wail. A sound that stopped Scar’s heart before setting it pounding with a frantic, overwhelming joy. The door opened. Chioma emerged, her face radiant, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Boss…" she whispered, her voice thick. "Come meet your son."
Scar moved as if in a dream, pushing past her into the room. The scent of blood and effort hung in the air, but it was eclipsed by something purer, sweeter. Jessica lay propped on pillows, exhausted but glowing, her face a picture of awestruck love. And in her arms, swaddled in soft white linen, was a tiny, perfect human being. A shock of dark hair, a button nose, and eyes screwed shut as he voiced his displeasure at the bright new world.
Scar approached slowly, his massive frame seeming too large, too clumsy for this fragile miracle. He sank to his knees beside the bed, his eyes fixed on the tiny face. Jessica smiled weakly, shifting slightly. "Sebastian… meet your son. Adebayo Sebastian Scar."
Tentatively, reverently, Scar reached out. His large, scarred hand, capable of such violence, trembled as he gently traced the curve of his son’s impossibly soft cheek. The baby’s cries subsided slightly, tiny fingers unfurling. As Scar’s fingertip brushed that miniature hand, the tiny fingers instinctively curled around it with surprising strength.
The dam broke. A single tear, then another, escaped Scar’s tightly shut eyes, tracing a path down his scarred cheek. A sob, raw and unexpected, ripped from his chest. He bowed his head, his forehead resting gently against Jessica’s arm beside the baby, his shoulders shaking silently. The fear, the rage, the betrayal, the relentless pursuit of power – it all dissolved in the face of this profound, terrifying love. He wept for the man he’d been, for the pain inflicted, for the miracle granted.
"He’s perfect," he choked out, lifting his tear-streaked face to look at Jessica, his eyes blazing with a love so fierce it stole her breath. He placed his other hand over hers where it cradled the baby’s head. "Both of you. My world." He leaned down, pressing the most tender kiss first on Jessica’s sweaty forehead, then on the downy head of his son. "I swear on my life," he whispered, his voice thick with conviction, his gaze locked on the tiny face, "I will protect you. Both of you. With every breath, every drop of blood. Nothing will ever harm you again. You are my heart. My sanctuary. My *everything*." The Lion of Lagos had found his true purpose, not in territory or fear, but in the fierce, unwavering protection of his pride
Four months later, Adebayo was a thriving bundle of energy, his dark eyes already holding a disconcerting echo of his father’s intensity, often softened by a gummy smile that could melt stone. Life settled into a blissful rhythm. Scar embraced fatherhood with a fierce, almost comical devotion, often found pacing the nursery at 3 AM with Adebayo asleep on his broad chest, or conducting business meetings via video call with the baby propped in a sling.
One quiet afternoon, Jessica found Scar in his study, engrossed in building a ridiculously complex block tower for Adebayo, who watched with rapt fascination. Sunlight streamed through the windows. Jessica sat beside him on the plush rug, leaning her head against his shoulder. "He’s getting so strong," she murmured, watching their son grab a block.
"He’s a Scar," Scar rumbled proudly, carefully adding another block. "Strength is in the blood."
Jessica took a deep breath, a secret smile playing on her lips. "Speaking of strength… and blood…" She reached into the pocket of her flowing dress and pulled out a small, familiar plastic stick. She placed it gently on the carpet beside the tower.
Scar froze, his hand hovering over the next block. His gaze snapped from the test to Jessica’s face, then back to the test. Two clear pink lines. His breath hitched. Understanding dawned, slow and then blindingly bright. He dropped the block, ignoring Adebayo’s startled gurgle. He turned fully to Jessica, his eyes wide, searching hers.
"Jessica?" His voice was barely a whisper, filled with disbelief and burgeoning hope.
She nodded, her smile widening, tears sparkling in her eyes. "Another little lion cub. Or maybe a lioness this time. Due in about seven months."
A roar of pure, unadulterated joy erupted from Scar, startling Adebayo, who blinked and then let out a delighted squeal. Scar swept Jessica into his arms, lifting her off the rug, spinning her gently despite her laughing protests. He buried his face in her neck, his laughter mingling with tears of profound gratitude. "Another chance," he breathed against her skin, setting her down but holding her close. "Another miracle. You give me everything, my lioness. Everything."
He kissed her then, deep and slow, pouring all his love, his relief, his awe into the touch. Later that night, after Adebayo was asleep, their reunion was a slow, tender exploration. It wasn't the frantic claiming of the past, nor the desperate passion after Amanda’s exposure. It was a celebration of life, of their enduring bond, of the future stretching bright before them. He worshipped her body, the subtle new curve taking shape beneath his hands, whispering promises against her skin, their movements a beautiful, synchronized dance of love and creation.
Adebayo was six months old, a sturdy, curious baby with his father’s intense gaze and his mother’s gentle smile, when Jessica walked down the aisle. Not in a cathedral, but at dawn on the private, white-sand beach of a secluded Seychelles island. The guests were few but deeply cherished: Her parents, beaming with pride and tearful joy; Chioma and Ghost, holding hands; William, Kola, Musa, and a handful of Scar’s most trusted men, now truly family.
Jessica wore not a traditional white gown, but a stunning creation of layered, whisper-thin ivory silk that flowed like water around her, subtly cinched beneath her breasts to accommodate the gentle swell of her second pregnancy. Her hair was woven with fragrant frangipani blossoms. She carried a simple bouquet of tropical white orchids.
Scar waited for her beneath a canopy woven with vibrant bougainvillea and seashells, barefoot in the sand, wearing crisp white linen trousers and an open-necked ivory shirt. He held Adebayo, dressed in a tiny linen suit, who stared wide-eyed at the ocean. But as Jessica approached, guided by her father, Scar’s gaze locked onto hers. The raw love, the fierce protectiveness, the awe he’d felt holding his son for the first time – it all shone in his eyes, amplified a thousandfold. Tears tracked freely down his face as she reached him.
The ceremony was simple, profound. They spoke vows not written by anyone else, but forged in the fires they’d walked through together. Jessica promised her strength, her unwavering love, and the sanctuary of her heart. Scar vowed his protection, his absolute fidelity, and his endless gratitude for the family she’d given him. He included Adebayo in his vows, promising to be his guide, and placed a gentle hand on Jessica’s belly, whispering a promise to the child yet to come. When they kissed, the rising sun painted them in gold, the turquoise waves their witness.
Their honeymoon wasn't just a vacation; it was a month-long immersion in peace, connection, and the simple joy of being a family. They spent mornings building sandcastles with a delighted Adebayo, afternoons napping in hammocks strung between palm trees, Scar’s hand resting possessively on Jessica’s growing bump. Evenings were spent sharing fresh seafood under the stars, Adebayo asleep in a sling against Scar’s chest, Jessica leaning against his shoulder. They talked – truly talked – about their fears, their hopes, their dreams for their children. They swam in crystal-clear lagoons, explored vibrant coral reefs, and simply existed in a bubble of love, far removed from the shadows of Lagos.
One moonlit night, after settling Adebayo in the villa’s nursery, Scar led Jessica back to the beach. He spread a blanket on the sand, the only sound the gentle sigh of the waves. He pulled her down beside him, wrapping his arms around her from behind, his hands cradling her belly. He rested his chin on her shoulder, looking out at the vast, star-strewn ocean.
"From the slums of Lagos," he murmured, his voice a soft rumble against her ear, "to the devil’s mistress… to my wife. My queen. The mother of my children." He kissed her temple. "My Jessica. My sanctuary."
Jessica leaned back into his embrace, covering his hands with hers on her belly, feeling the tiny flutter within. She looked up at the endless sky, then back at the sleeping villa where their son dreamed. "Our sanctuary, Sebastian," she whispered, turning her head to capture his lips in a tender kiss under the watchful moon. "Built together. Forged in fire. Found in love."
The Lion had found his true kingdom – not in fear or territory, but in the boundless, fiercely protected love of his lioness and their cubs. The Devil’s Mistress had become the Queen of his heart, and their story, scarred but unbreakable, was only just beginning. The future stretched before them, bright as the dawn over the Indian Ocean, filled with the promise of peace, family, and the enduring strength of a love that had conquered hell itself.
THE END