For many students, returning to school signals a time of fear and pain; especially if they are the victim of bullying. It is vitally important that open and consistent dialogues are occurring between parent and children. Parents must foster healthy and effective communication with their children.

Some of the problems many marriages that are in crisis face, can occur from outside of the marriage. Hurt, pain, divisiveness can be a direct result of influences on a marriage from outside sources that couples have allowed into the intimate part of their marriage.

Mynding My Own Bizness Entertainment's mother and daughter team are making a powerful impact on the independent music and entertainment scene. In the last two years this dynamic duo has executive produced a film, written, produced music, inspired fashion, and have stood against social injustices.

For the many advances we have made in society, when it comes to body image, we still struggle; having the least acceptance for those who may not fit the ideal body image and size. Who determines what is beautiful? Why do a few get to determine for many, a standard of beauty?

The experience of going to college; matriculating with their peers, should be an experience that every young person experiences, should they desire to do so. Being hindered by the cost of a higher education; especially for young, black students, should never be a deterrent.

The strength of the black community lies within the black family. When families are united and are determined to make a difference in their homes--regardless to the current circumstances or challenges--that show of strength and commitment bleeds into the community as a whole.

Confidence is not subject to whether or not our life is going the way we desire. Confidence should be the mainstay in our walk in God. Confidence should not be based upon our ability, but upon God and His word and the fact that God has never lied and will keep His promises.

Our common thread is more than the color of our skin. It is what we all have inherited from generations before. A legacy that is filled with determination, fortitude, power, resilience, faith and love.

There is a cost for being Black in America. The majority of the bill falls upon the shoulders of our Black sons and men. We must arm and educate our Black children; especially our sons, arming them with the knowledge of their rights and the laws of this land and how they can protect themselves.

We have long felt the disjointed arm of justice when it comes to people of color. We long since understood that we rarely, as black people, will get a fair and just trial in America. We have only to look at the prisons. We must protect our children, prepare them for the injustices that do occur.