EVERY NIGHT IN LA — A SEQUEL & STORY OF RESILIENCE FUNDRAISER

About the Filmmaker —

(representative for inquiries) jsmith@mccuneharbor.com

I'm MeMe Kelly, an award-winning artist and filmmaker with an MFA from the University of California (Distinguished Dean's Playwright Fellow) and also a B.A. from UCLA. My work has earned recognition in prestigious competitions including:

• Quarterfinalist in the Academy Nicholl's Screenwriting Contest (top selection from 7,000+ scripts)

• Semifinalist in UCLA Film School's Samuel Goldwyn Screenwriting Contest (top 10)

• Finalist in the Lena Waithe/Macro television pilot contest

As an author, I've written two novels and three inspirational books. My theatrical works have been both written and produced, showcasing my dedication to storytelling across multiple mediums. My journey is a story of resilience. Read My Open Letter to My Creative Family blog post below!

The Project: Every Night in LA

This feature film, a sequel to the acclaimed "One Night in LA," tells a powerful story of identity, family, and perseverance through the lens of a Black woman balancing multiple roles in contemporary Los Angeles.

The Story

At its heart, "Every Night in LA ©" follows a contemplative African American Literature Professor navigating the complexities of modern life:

• Family Life: Managing three sons in youth sports while helping them forge their own identities

• Social Dynamics: Bridging the divide between LA's privileged and underserved communities

• Marriage: Balancing values with her NBA Executive husband who prioritizes material success

• Career: Confronting academic politics and discovering her true calling

• Personal Journey: Thriving after breast cancer, embodying resilience and determination

Why This Story Matters

This film explores universal themes through a unique perspective:

• The delicate balance of personal ambition and family responsibilities

• Navigation of socioeconomic disparities in Los Angeles

• The power of enduring love (inspired by my 40+ year marriage to my college sweetheart)

• The triumph of the human spirit over health challenges

Inspiration

The film draws inspiration from my mother, Dr. Georgia Mae, who rose from humble beginnings in Georgia to become the first woman, first Black, and youngest Director of Military Schools for the Department of Defense. Her 32-year journey with breast cancer while achieving professional excellence embodies the "don't quit" spirit central to our story.

Production Details

• Filming Schedule: March 27th - April 17th

• Status: Pre-production

Previous Work

• "One Night in LA" (Available on Tubi)

  • Official Selection: Essence Film Festival

  • Official Selection: Micheaux Film Festival

  • Official Selection: Pan African Film Festival

Support the Project

Your contribution will help bring this important story to life. This film represents not just my personal journey, but the universal story of perseverance, love, and the pursuit of authenticity.

This project is seven years in the making, emerging from my graduate school experience and fueled by my mother's inspiring "Don't Quit Spirit." With your support, we can complete this vision by April 17th.

DONATIONS CAN BE SECURELY MADE SEVERAL WAYS:

Cash App:

$memekellyproductions

Zelle:

memekellyproductionsllc@gmail.com

Paypal:

Email memekellyproductionsllc@gmail.com for the Paypal link

Connect With Us

• Watch "One Night in LA" on Tubi

• View two proof of concepts short film: "The Thorn Family Is? and Out of Bounds" (Links sent to every person who donates any amount)

• Learn more about Dr. Georgia Mae: www.thedrgeorgiamaeproject.com

Thank you for considering support for "Every Night in LA ©," Your contribution helps bring authentic, meaningful stories to the screen.

An Open Letter to My Creative Family

Dear Accomplished Creatives and Cherished Sorors and Sisters,

With more days behind me than ahead, every moment counts in this beautiful journey.

After dedicating my prime years to raising three remarkable sons—including one with autism—I received an unexpected calling in my late 50s: to return to graduate school to earn an MFA as a Distinguished Dean’s Fellow and Playwright at the University of California. There, I was called to become a filmmaker telling powerful stories centered on mature, spiritual Black Women and Women of Color who persevere through life's challenges. Women who love hard:), like me. I’ve been with my UCLA college sweetheart since I was 17!

But, now, I'm thrilled to announce that "One Night in LA ©,"my first feature film, is getting its much-anticipated sequel: "Every Night in LA ©" – the story I've always wanted to tell. With our shoot dates locked in (March 27th - April 17th), I'm producing and directing alongside a small but mighty team of co-director, assistant director and experienced crew.

How You Can Help This Dream Take Flight

1. Our crowdfunding campaign launches Tuesday! The first 24 hours are crucial for building momentum. Your early support—even just $1-5—would mean the world to me. A simple "Keep Going, Soror, Sister, Friend" alongside your contribution would fuel my spirit immeasurably. (And yes, larger donations would have me shouting with joy!)

2. I'm seeking passionate collaborators This award-winning script deserves the best team possible. I'm opening my heart to potential:

• Producers (Executive, Creative, and Line)

• Directors

• Cinematographers

• Casting Directors

• Cast members

• Crew professionals

If you feel called to join this journey, please email me at memekellyinspires@gmail.com with "Every Night in LA Shoot!" in the subject line. My vision is to make this a true Deltas in Entertainment affair.

By the grace of God, by my Mommy Soror's "Do Not Quit" spirit, and by the unwavering support of my Sorors, friends, and family, I am determined to complete this journey—and to do it by my birthday in April.

One of the reasons I need grace are the times in which we live. Our nation is polarized like never before, and I believe we’ve lost our democracy. As a storyteller, my small contribution is sharing narratives and stories that see us as one, the human race, where we’re all treated with dignity. A bi-racial family is the storytelling tool I use In One Night in LA and Every Night in LA.

A Filmmaker's Journey: Counting My Blessings

https://mailchi.mp/22e55456b257/countourblessings (includes list of projects at the end)

Making a film is no easy feat, and this has been an extremely challenging journey. Yet through it all, I find myself shouting joyfully to one song! I shout because I always keep my life in perspective. Even as I long to complete Every Night in LA, I keep my gaze on my family and all the blessings God has already bestowed upon me.

I invite you to read my "Count My Blessings" Shout-Out, which highlights additional projects I aspire to produce (listed at the bottom of this email).

My filmmaking calling emerged after I raised my sons. But motherhood wasn't my only role—though providing the best for my children was my primary focus, especially since God entrusted me with one of HIS special angels, my autistic son.

This filmmaker's call also came after other meaningful chapters in my life: running a small non-profit, Sisters Supporting Sisters, for 20 years, and teaching elementary school (which I still occasionally do to make ends meet). The call followed other creative endeavors as well: writing several books—one of which was optioned by an esteemed Hollywood couple (a Warner Bros. Executive and his wife) in 2001—and writing and producing several plays that filled theaters throughout Los Angeles.

My creative journey has spanned over 30 years, and I'm grateful for every step along the way.

Thank you for taking the time to read this note. Your belief in me means everything.

With gratitude and purpose,

MeMe

@onenightinalamovie and @memekellywrites1 (social media)

Experience "One Night in LA" - Now Streaming on Tubi!

https://tubitv.com/movies/100031010/one-night-in-la

I'm thrilled to share my latest film "One Night in LA" with you! This labor of love represents countless hours of dedication, and the response has been incredible. The sequel script, "Every Night in LA," has already made waves, advancing past 6,000 submissions in the prestigious Nicholl Fellowship Competition and nearly reaching quarter-finalist status.

It’s a story about a stressed-out professor grappling with the return of cancer, her fear of death, and the question of what really matters in life and love.

The film has gained significant traction on social media, and I've had the privilege of discussing it on several podcasts. Learn more about the creative journey through these conversations:

• "The Inspiration Behind One Night in LA" https://youtu.be/GlAX_puHiNw?feature=shared

• "The Power of Feed Forwarding" on The Ask MRS HR Podcast” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-W5kcC3xTo

• “Support Our Creatives.com Interview”

• https://blog.supportourcreatives.com/2025/01/01/replay-meme-kelly-writer-director-and-producer-support-our-creatives-podcast/

• "The Urgency of Health Awareness for Black Women" on Ask Mrs. HR Podcast

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV-jZpkgrYo

While "One Night in LA" is making its mark, I've noticed how the entertainment industry's hierarchy often overlooks incredible independent films simply because they're not on major platforms. This reminds me of the vibrant Black Renaissance of Authors era, when creativity flourished at festivals nationwide and audiences eagerly embraced new voices and perspectives. In those days, independent artists found enthusiastic readers and viewers who sought out fresh narratives and diverse viewpoints.

Today's landscape may favor algorithmic recommendations and mainstream platforms, but independent artists like us remain committed to authentic storytelling. We're part of a proud tradition of creators who choose artistic integrity over conformity.

Watch "One Night in LA" on Tubi and join us in celebrating independent filmmaking. Your support helps ensure that diverse voices and stories continue to reach audiences who hunger for something different.

WE ARE THE LEADERS WE HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR

ABOUT AUTHOR EDDIE S. GLAUDE JR.

From the author of the New York Times bestseller Begin Again, a politically astute, lyrical meditation on how ordinary people can shake off their reliance on a small group of professional politicians ... Eddie S. Glaude Jr. is the author of several books, including Democracy in Black and the New York Times bestseller Begin Again: James Baldwin's America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own, winner of the Harriet Beecher Stowe

Here’s more about him here: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674737600

Finding Light in Dark Times: A Personal Reflection

As I prepare for my 40-day prayer fast from technology and social media, I've been reflecting on what might seem like dark times in America. Yet I've come to see these challenges differently - they're actually gifts to those of us who love this country deeply and envision a progressive path forward.

The light bearers of our future are already here. They're the brilliant young minds working in:

• Non-profits pursuing social change

• Businesses reimagining commerce

• Technology shaping our digital future

• Mental health supporting our communities

• The arts telling our essential stories

I see this light firsthand in my own family - my three remarkable sons and two wonderful daughters-in-love. And beyond them, I've had the privilege of knowing other extraordinary young people who I believe will transform our world: Corey, Austin, Caroline, Court, Lisa, Evan, Melanie, Sydney, Dominique, and Numa.

And let's not forget those of us whose hearts remain forever young at 21 - we too have our part to play in this transformation. Together, we can make 2025 a year of magic and positive change.

DON’T GASLIGHT ME!

# Understanding Gaslighting: A Personal Journey and Resource Collection

## Origins and Personal Connection

I'm particularly drawn to examining the increasing prevalence of gaslighting in our society - whether it manifests in personal relationships, organizations, or broader social contexts. My interest was sparked by personal experience, though the details will, forever, remain private. I find it fascinating that the term "gaslighting" originates from Patrick Hamilton's 1938 play "Gas Light," later popularized by the 1944 film adaptation. As a playwright myself and former Distinguished Dean's Fellow at the University of California (where I earned my MFA), this theatrical connection resonates deeply with me.

## Important Resources on Gaslighting

I've collected some interesting resources for understanding this phenomenon:

1. "Am I Being Gaslighted at My Job? Black Women & Toxic Jobs" - A video exploring workplace gaslighting specifically affecting Black women

2. "The SURPRISING SIGNS Someone Is 'GASLIGHTING' You!" by Dr. Ramani - Expert insights into recognizing gaslighting behaviors

3. "Blowing the Whistle on Harmful Behaviors at Work" from Psychology Today - Understanding workplace dynamics and advocacy

## Advocacy and Personal Causes

My advocacy work spans several areas close to my heart:

### Disability Rights and Care

- Mother to an amazing autistic young man (eldest of my three sons)

- Caregiver to Tip, my disabled dog who hasn't walked in over 10 years

- Together with my husband, we've managed complex care responsibilities for 40 years! Whew:)

### Education and Community Support

- Former teacher in Watts, working with students who had limited exposure to higher education opportunities

- Advocate for homeless individuals, foster youth, and those facing abandonment

### Healthcare Advocacy

- Founder of The Georgia Mae Project (www.thedrgeorgiamaeproject.com)

- Focus on raising awareness about challenges faced by BIPOC women with cancer diagnoses, treatment, and care.

## Current Journey

I'm embarking on a 40-day fast, which will limit my social media and technology use. However, I felt compelled to start this project of interest - one that I believe was divinely inspired, as many meaningful projects in my life have been.

While I won't be actively monitoring responses during this time, I hope these resources and insights prove valuable to others facing similar challenges. Together, we can learn, grow, and create positive change in our communities. We are the leaders we’re looking for!

The Great Pause

Life sometimes forces us to stop. It might be divorce, bankruptcy, betrayal, or a devastating natural disaster—moments that bring everything to a sudden halt, followed by a prolonged silence before we begin living again. During this pause, we're granted the rare opportunity to reflect deeply on who we were before calamity struck and who we aspire to become after.

My family experienced this firsthand after a horrendous car accident. In that enforced stillness that followed, we discovered a profound truth: nothing mattered more than life itself, being together, and loving one another. The pause stripped away life's complexities, leaving only what was essential.

Now, Los Angeles finds itself in a collective pause. My heart goes out to every Angeleno who has lost their home, their things, or even worst, a loved one. My hope is that we use this time to reveal our true character—a vibrant, diverse city whose residents genuinely care for one another. As we rebuild, we must prioritize genuine inclusivity, breaking down the invisible barriers that have historically segregated our neighborhoods. The Pacific Palisades need not remain an enclave of wealth and privilege.

This pause offers us a chance to reconsider how we live: perhaps we can learn to drive more mindfully on our freeways, treating fellow travelers with greater courtesy. More importantly, it presents an opportunity for political reconciliation, where Republicans and Democrats might find common ground and demonstrate to our children that adults can disagree respectfully and still work together for the common good.

The Great Pause isn't just an ending—it's an invitation to begin anew, with greater wisdom and purpose. Through these moments of stillness, we can discover not just who we are, but who we might become.

I Feel Like Going On!

After raising three amazing sons and being married to their dad since the beginning of time

After inviting my sons’ beautiful wives into my heart

After receiving Otis and Georgia, my beautiful bi-racial grand-babies, into the world with unconditional love

After teaching thousands of public school children (angels)

After making it through COVID, unscathed, & mourning the deaths of millions

After crying for the babies in GAZA, the victims of the Israel Attack, and all those in America who have met senseless, violent deaths!!!

After Facing America’s Divide & Watching Democracy slip away

After enduring ALL of America’s ISMs (Whew, Ageism, Sexism, Racism, Elitism, and Bad Tribalism) while sharing stories I’m CALLED to share

I FEEL LIKE GOING ON.

Let me repeat this

I STILL FEEL LIKE GOING ON!

My Bigmama and Mama are smiling down on me from heaven this holiday season.

&

GOD IS PROUD BECAUSE

I’m SHOUTN & Listening to I Feel Like Going On by Marvin Winans

If you’re reading this, I’m praying that you feel strong and that you keep the faith, especially in the middle of a dark night or season.

Enjoy, my shout out I Feel Like Going On! https://mailchi.mp/672216507877/i-feel-lke-going-on

Sending you a virtual hug!

Happy Thanksgiving

Have a wonderful Holiday Season

Sip & Share for The Georgia Mae Project

The Georgia Mae Project

is dedicated to Increasing Awareness of challenges faced by

Black Women,

Indigenous Women, and Women of Color

with breast cancer treatment and other health diagnosis.

www.thedrgeorgiamaeproject.com

Join us for an intimate, artsy affair on Sat, September 28th, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the San Fernando Valley at a private residence.

You’ll be inspired by two dynamic speakers:

Dr. Dawn Lewis,

Christ Follower, Author, Transformational Speaker,

DNP, FNP-MSN,

and Brainspotting Therapist

(BONUSL she’s a husband whisper; read her book Call Me Wife on Amazon, :)

&

Soror, Carlin Hafiz

CEO, Pink Haus Organization,

a Breast Cancer Awareness 501 (c) 3, non-profit

Please take the time to read their bios.

RSVP mkelly@thedrgeorgiamaeproject.com or  georgiamaeproject@yahoo.com; details provided upon RSVP

A Special Note from MeMe Kelly,

Founder of the Georgia Mae Project!

I’m silly enough to believe that if Black Women and Women of Color come together to share about their health journeys, we can find solutions to end the Breast Cancer Crisis!

It’s a crisis when Black women are about 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women.

It’s a crisis when Black women have a lower 5-year relative breast cancer survival rate compared to white women.

I lived with breast cancer for more than 34 years as I supported my Mommy, Soror Dr. Georgia Mae, as she thrived with breast cancer. After every doctor’s appointment or chemo treatment, we would talk, shop, sip, eat, and strategize about how she would thrive and kick cancer’s butt!

If you or someone you know is battling breast cancer, please under stand that 34 (or 34+34 )is our magical number. We want Black women to thrive with breast cancer and other ailments, forever, or for a very long time!

As your host, I’ll light candles to set the mood, turn on music with good vibes, lay out a spread of delicious bites, and receive you. I’ll also be reading from inspirational readings and poems. Feel free to bring literature or a verse that’s inspired you during a tough moment in life.

Or just come prepared to absorb the positive vibes.

See Ya soon.

MeMe Kelly

Creative Space A Blog & Podcast!

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome

To the Creative Space Blog!

It’s here and also as a podcast on YouTube and Spotify.

https://youtu.be/phD4UTRbrsQ?si=QJK6cdZPpxDXNv8V

https://open.spotify.com/show/1OSzsfZp1oTeZrWkdoyOTs?si=4005bbf98bd844bf

I create my own dog gone Creative Spaces:). I’m too old to ask permission to be the way God has ordained me to be. And I refuse to write for free for other publications. LOL! I would rather share it here, where I create the rules as I go. Things may be Capitalized, bolded, and italicized as I see fit to emphasize them.

Remember, it’s My Creative Space!

I’ll be LIVE on YouTube in the Creative Space - Podcast bi-weekly or when spirit leads me to share. For better or worse, you’ll be able to see me:). Lawdy, I ain’t no glamour gal.

It’s also on Spotify and where Podcast can be found! https://open.spotify.com/show/1OSzsfZp1oTeZrWkdoyOTs

P.S. For 50 episodes, it was the podcast SHOUT:

Shine Yo Light

Have Hope

Overcome

Use God’s Power &

Take Charge

I got it in, Bigmama! RIP. I love you and miss you so much.

Say Her Name!

Are You Winning With Black Women, (WWBW) the organization that unleashed the support for Vice President Kamala Harris with a Zoom Call with 44, 000 Black Women on the call? You should be! I was one of 44,000 on the call. Please donate to the organization and tell them that MeMe Kelly sent you!

I hope you’re ready to enjoy the best that Black Women have to give to America and the world. In this season, I believe we’re ready to share it with you. And so, this will be a continuous post where I Say Their Names: Black Women Who are Shining Their Light with their walk, their presence, and their lives. I will also say the names of ancestors whose lives were a North Star, guiding us with light and joy, to this point!

Here, I’ll make my own rules and capitalize and underline things that aren’t required, so be flexible and enjoy this creative space with me.

This list, of course, is not exhaustive, and your name may very well end up here. For now, it’s of those who have touched my heart over the last few weeks with their dedication to moving America forward!

VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS!

My Mama Soror Dr. Georgia Mae, RIP, Say Her Name, y’all.

Jotaka Eaddy, founder of WWBW, my Soror!

Evan Seymour, Founder of Black Women in Entertainment for Kamala, Marketing Extraordinaire, the CHIEF, my Soror!

Donna Brazille, and her Colored Girls Who Have Considered Politics with Yolanda Caraway, Leah Daughtry, and Minyon Moore

Michelle Obama

Oprah

And then I drop down into Hollywood and say a few names there:

Janine Sherman Barrios, who hosted the first postcard writing party for Black Women in Entertainment for Kamala, She’s a Showrunner, Writer, Producer, who is gracious, kind, and talented. She doesn’t know this, but she had me with Claws! And now I’m caught up and hooked on The Big Cigar! She’s brilliant.

Yvette Lee Bowser, Showrunner, Producer, and Writer, who gave a touching, heartfelt talk in a recent WWBW Zoom. (Her show Un-Prisoned had me up for two nights binging it!)

Quan Lateef-Hill - a Sweet, Kind Producer, one of the organizers of the first postcard writing party for Black Women in Entertainment for Kamala. Hold up, she’s a multi-hyphenated Filmmaker, Writer, Director and Emmy nominated Producer developing and producing multi-platform content across: Television, Film, Digital, Podcast/Radio, and Live Event & Experiential Production. Okay, take a breath:)

Kamala Avila Salmon - Another Sweet, Kind Producer, one of the organizers of the first Debate Party for Black Women in Entertainment for Kamala in Los Angeles. A powerful Hollywood player with a kind, gentle spirit. She’s young, beautiful, gifted and Black:)!

Cody Elaine Oliver, a Producer who hosted the First Debate Party for Black Women in Entertainment for Kamala, who produced Black Love on Own Network, which I loved. She’s young, beautiful, gifted and Black:)!

Victoria Gabriella Platt, the amazing actress and star of One Night in LA, my feature film, and all the Sisters who were in Hollywood Prayer and Support, my Diverse Curb Enthusiasm with a spiritual twist web-series, available at www.elevatedstories.me. Thank You, Sisters.

My Sorors of Delta Sigma Theta in Entertainment, all of you. But I want to to name a few:

Madame President Elsie Cooke-Holmes, the head of all of us.

Ashley Dunn, Entertainment reporter + producer + style expert

Kim Ennix-Sandu, Connie Ennix, and Dr. Kelly Ennix-King (is not a soror, yet), board members for the Georgia Mae Project.

Kim Whitley, actress and pod-caster

Danielle Dominique Nelson, one of the creators of Mind Your Business, Bounce Network, writer, and producer.

And all of the other amazing Deltas not named here yet. My Sorors, I love you.

Finally, to Leslie, my prayer partner on Tues and Thurs, whose MaMa’s name is Georgia Mae also and who is the mother of a doggy Blue also, just like me, I SHOUT: WON’T GOD DO IT! Where two or more are gathered, HE shows up. God is on the prayer line with us, y’all!

My Sisters, We are One & I Will Never Let You Go, so I’m ending with Frankie Beverly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4854yQ1sHc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oNrY_pC_MQ

"Before I Let You Go"

… You made me happy
This you can bet
You stood right beside me, yeah
And I won't forget

… And I really love you
You should know
I wanna make sure I'm right, girl
Before I let go

… Now we've had our good time
That's what they say
…

… You know I think the sun rises and shines on you
You know there's nothin', nothin', nothin' I would not do

… Whoa, no

… Before I let you go...
Ohhh.…..
I would never, never, never, never, never, never, never
Never let you go, before I go

…

WE ARE ONE
We are one no matter what we do
We are one love will see us through
We are one and that's the way it is
Sometimes I feel
That we try and make each other sad
The things we do
How we make each other feel so bad
We've got so much
We could all be having so much fun
We are one from the very start
We are one deep down in your heart
We are one
And that's the way it is
I Can't understand
…
And no matter how it's said or done
We are one no matter what we do
We are one love will see us through
We are one and that's the way it is

JOY & PAIN!

I’d done what I was suppose to do: Graduated from UCLA.

Afterwards, I’d had fun in Europe, and it was time to come back to the United States for the next chapter. What would it be? Honestly, I didn’t have a clue.

But, Frankie Beverly, let me know that Joy & Pain were one in the same and that if I could JUST BE COOL like he was in his own skin, floating across the stage, listening to the music, and feeling the vibe that everything would be alright.

I decided then that I should always dance under the stars!

“As you grow older, you learn to live with the Joys and Pains of Life,” Frankie Beverly would belt out. “Aww, Yeah,” he would sang, feeling the groove!

And some kind of way his sultry sound of soul, gave a generation of Black folks the tools to drop and roll with the punches ( like I did with the 5.1. Earthquake that happen this morning near me)! We would stay in the joy no matter what.

President Reagan was in office when the song came out, and Black folks were disillusioned and struggling. Affirmative Action was under attack. The War on Crime would begin soon, when crack cocaine would be unleashed in our communities. The song carried us through it all, from the beginning to the end of four decades: The Bush eras and the Trump era too.

We danced to the White House with Obama.

Now, it’s time to stay in joy for Kamala Harris and work our butts off to move America forward as the GREATEST country in the world.

Now, more than ever, we understand that Joy & Pain are flipped sides of the same coin in America!

So like I’ve done for all the posts here today, I end with Frankie Beverly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNuKMPeOdfM

Joy & Pain

Remember when you first found love how you felt so good
Kind that last forever more so you thought it would
Suddenly the things you see got you hurt so bad
How come the things that make us happy make us sad
Well it seems to me that
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Love can be bitter love can be sweet
Sometimes devotion and sometimes deceit
The ones that you care for give you so much pain
Oh but it's alright there both one in the same
Don't it seem we go through life going up and down
Seems the things that turn you on turn you around
Always hurting eachother if it ain't one thing it's another
But when the world is down on you love's somewhere around
Well it seems to me that
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Over and over you can be sure
There will be sorrow but you will endure
Where there's a flower there's the sun and the rain
Oh and it's wonderful there both one in the same
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain
Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain

He would often end it with a moan and SHOUT as the audience took over.

Thank you, Frankie Beverly, for a lifetime of music.

A New Season!

As a writer, woman, and mom of three sons, I thirst for new seasons that pull me out of negativity and darkness of the past, regardless of the nature of what I’m being released from: Relationship Difficulties; Financial Woes; Lack of Faith; Sagging Self Esteem, or Spiritual Bankruptness. Change is EVERYTHING to me! And this summer, I’ve longed for change. I haven’t wanted to fall in line and do life the way others thought I should do it.

I’ve thirsted for the highest, what God wants for me, like a woman lost in the a desert.

Thank you, Vice President Kamala Harris, for setting this season in motion.

God Bless You and Your Campaign!

Love,

MeMe, a woman basking in the glory of this season

Be Anxious For Nothing…

I love it when God is absolutely clear about what I’m to do. Yesterday, during my prayer and bible time, a page fell out of my bible, and I knew, instantly, that I was suppose to share the scriptures on the page. The image for the post is a page from my bible. God probably wanted me to share the scriptures because He loves you. And I love you too.

Today is my last day of blogging to Essence,. I’ll be there tomorrow, ready to have fun — an incredible filmmakers’ circle has been created in Zoom and What’s App — and One Night in LA will screen on Sunday at 12:20 p.m., in Theater 2.

Thank you for reading these posts. I’m not sure what’s next. But I shall be anxious for nothing. You be well!

Philippians 4:6-8

6. Be Anxious for nothing,

but in every thing by prayer and supplication,

with thanksgiving,

let your requests be know to God;

7. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,

will guard your hearts and minds

through Christ Jesus

8. Finally, brethen, what ever things are true,

whatever things are are noble,

whatever things are just,

whatever things are pure,

whatever things are lovely,

whatever things are of good report,

if there is any virtue and if there is anything,

praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Philippians 3: 12-15

12. Not that I have already attained,

or am already perfected,

but I press on,

that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus

has also laid hold of me.

13. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended;

but one thing I do,

forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,

14. I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

15. Therefore let us as many as are mature,

have this mind;

and if in anything you think otherwise,

God will reveal even this to you.

A note from MeMe: Typing this felt like a warm shower, or an evening swim on a warm summer night. I could feel God’s cleansing water washing over me:)!

What Am I Going To Write?!

As much as I’d like to reveal a master piece here today, there’s a lot going on and I can’t. But I can write about what I’m going to write when the tic, toc on the clock slows to a crawl, tic, toc, stop! When the sun sets in a blood red, orange sky, and the breezes from Santa Monica beach reach me in the San Fernando Valley, and the day darkens at 4 p.m., then I’ll write! Haha.

Mostly it’ll be about L-O-V-E, loving a Black man, because I’m an expert at that. I’m especially good at loving the tall, fine ones, who are 6’3 and taller:). That’s who God designated for me, and I, happily, accepted the call. So, I’ll allow my heart to bleed on the page with l-o-v-e.

I’ve loved four tall Black men — my hubby and three sons — to the end of the earth and back, so I’m going to write about the journey. I’m going to podcast about it, and SHOUT about it. I know that male toxicity starts at age 2, LOL, and I prevented a heap of it from being unleashed in the world.

“Stay calm, Black man:),” I always whispered. I love you, which should be enough.

I’m going to write about Walter Lee, a fictional character in my head. Walter Lee drives a Cadillac, always wears shiny shoes. He and Obama would have been good friends if I’d created him back then. He’s a principal, an educated Black man, with swagger and finesse, a man who is always in a suit and crispy white shirt and he smells so good! Teachers fall to their knees when he calls them to the office. LMBO. Ole, Walter Lee, I’m gonna have fun with you. He’s my Cup of Tea so maybe it’ll be an open fiction story here.

I’m going to write about you and how perfect you are! Enough said. Next,

I’m going to write about these times we’re in like Nina Simone said that I should. And Harry Belafonte preached the same thing. Go to my Instagram @memekellywriteselevatedstories and @onenightinlamovie and a clip of Nina is there. It’s also on my facebook page at @onenightinlamovie and memekellywrites

I’ll put up Harry Belafonte next week!

And, finally, I’m going to write about loving Georgia and Otis, and all the other babies that I get to love when I teach elementary school. I’m addicted to teaching, like I’m addicted to writing. I used to play teacher when I was a little girl, and I was always the teacher and the kids always had to put their head down and take a nap:). When I first walked into a classroom for Los Angeles Unified, I, literally, kneeled down and kissed the floor. I had on blue pants with suspenders and white crispy shirt and loafers, and it was my 33rd birthday. Boy, was I looking smart. A classroom is sacred ground.

Okay, that’s enough for day, GTG:)

P.S. Hold up, wait a minute, I’m back. I’m going to write about G-O-D. But for God, I would not be here, still in love with words. Thank you, God. I love you.

I AM SOMEBODY ~ JESSIE JACKSON

Essence is celebrating 30 years because they love us, and I’m celebrating 30 years of writing because I love us too, and I’ve loved myself with the written word!

I started writing because I wanted to survive in a world that felt harsher than I’d imagined as a child, that wasn’t a storybook of fairy tales. And when Los Angeles went up in smoke after the Rodney King trials, words started rumbling in me, and when I sat down at a computer, chapters flowed out of my heart. All I needed to do was sit still and they would come out.

And celebrating 30 years of letting them come out – as essays, blog posts, plays, and now films --- I realize that if I still sit down, there is more to come and this is where I’m supposed to be at this very moment: Tapping my fingers on a computer keyboard.

And that has always been 80% of the journey, finding where exactly I’m supposed to be, rooms that will accept me and are warm and comfortable. In the 70s, I found them at UCLA. Except for my grades at the end of each quarter, LOL, there was nothing that I wasn’t supposed to be there! 

I found a room at Second Baptist Church, one of the oldest Black churches in Los Angeles, with grandmother and her clan, introduced to me by friend Monique, who I’d like to end the journey with and I’m going to find.

When you walk into a room where you’re supposed to be, the walls glimmer, the curtains sway, the lights blink off and on, and birds sing.

I love walking into rooms where I’m supposed to be, which starts with a smile from me. I must smile at everyone I see which used to be easier before everyone became somebody. When we were just people in the struggle, making it just another day, it was easier to smile. I fault Jessie Jackson for pumping us up too much with that dang poem.

“I AM Somebody.”

As a little girl, I rode on a bus from Ann Arbor, Michigan to Chicago’s Push; it was in the 60s (don’t do the math), and that poem was recited the entire damn way and I knew we were in trouble.

I am…Somebody —

Jesse Jackson, Chicago, Illinois USA

I am Somebody!

I am Somebody!

I may be poor,

But I am Somebody.

I may be young,

But I am Somebody.

I may be on welfare,

But I am Somebody.

I may be small,

But I am Somebody.

I may have made mistakes,

But I am Somebody.

My clothes are different,

My face is different,

My hair is different,

But I am Somebody.

I am black,

Brown,or white.

I speak a different language

But I must be respected,

Protected,

Never rejected.

I am God’s child!

Thank you Jessie for starting us on our way. But he forgot a few things.

We shouldn’t become what is not just, fair, and loving

We shouldn’t become what our ancestors despised!

We shouldn’t be more concerned with images on Instagram than being real with ourselves and others.

And oh boy here we are!

Thanks, Jessie. I pray he’s doing well.

You Will Be Dead Soon Enough, So!

Try to learn to breathe deeply,

really to taste food when you eat,

and when you sleep, really to sleep,

Try as much as possible to be wholly alive with all your might,

and when you laugh, laugh like hell. And when you get angry,

get good and angry. Try to be alive.

You will be dead soon enough!

~Ernest Hemingway

P.S. My daughter-in-law Caroline, a therapist, had this quote on her Instagram, and I love it! Thanks, Caroline. I went to Cuba to watch Caroline’s dance before Cuban government officials with a theater and dance troupe from his school. I sat in Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar, and I just stared.

What’s in Your Heart?

Something has come over me, and all I think about is L-O-V-E!

All I listen to is love songs: Love and Happiness.

I want 30 more amazing summers to be with my sweet grand babies, Georgia and Otis, and my sons, their wives, and my hubby, and I believe the road there is paved with L-O-V-E!

And I know the journey will not be an easy feat.

We all get irritable and mad at others at times. We are impatient.We get down on our selves, especially after spending a moment comparing ourselves to others on Instagram.

And it’s hard to love others when we’re not feeling our best and are impatient, irritable, anxious, or experiencing all at the same time. I joke that there are no Ps in my name, and there aren’t: Just watch when I’m in a long grocery store line with a clerk who is taking her sweet time, and you’ll find me darting between lines trying to find the fastest one.

But, these days, I’m being mindful. I’m slowing down. While on LA Freeways, I’m jamming great music rather than switching between lanes.

My husband is monitoring what I say to our boys, and I’m constantly reminding myself that only requested advice is GOOD advice! The rest is just meddling in folks’ lives, which is none of my business.

So, I’m keeping my head down. I’m creating. And I’m loving.

Once I attended a workshop in a Zoom and the facilitator of the workshop was one of the meanest women I’d ever encountered. And as I sat there, I wondered how she could be so mean. So while she was berating and critiquing my work, I left the Zoom, mentally and virtually, and begin to google her to see what her story was. I found that she had a horrific past of tragedy, and I begin to understand her more. When I returned to the Zoom, I put on my compassion hat and filled my heart with L-O-V-E, first for myself, to protect myself from her darts, and then for her. I didn’t cuss her:)!

It was an act of returning to love, similar to the name of one of my favorite books. It’s by Marianne Williamson and was given to me right after I started writing. I was at a conference in Belgium with my Mom, who, at the time, was Director of Military Schools for the Department of Defense, Atlantic Region. We had traveled to Belgium from London, where we were living at the time. She was speaking at her conference with hundreds of educators who worked for her, and I sat in the audience because I didn’t have anything else to do. Suddenly, a principal, who was close to my Mom and whom I adored, tapped me on the shoulder. Perhaps, he could see that I was just passing the time and a bit bored. He whispered, “I have great book you should read.” And then he gave me his copy of Return to Love by Marianne Williamson. I exhaled, knowing that it was a divine gift, something I was suppose to read. I then left the conference and went upstairs to our room and did not emerge until I had finished the book. And when I came out of that hotel room, I was changed.

And that’s how I feel in this season of life. I’m emerging from 30 years of answering God’s call to write and create. Although the journey hasn’t been as rosy as I’d liked, there’s satisfaction deep in my soul, and I know that all I need to do now is to Return to Love!

How are you feeling in this season? And what is in your heart?

Love,

MeMe

P.S. You can always email me at memekellyinspires@gmail.com

OPTIMISM!

Optimism by Lady Harmony is my Cup of Tea today!

The world is filled with so many negative things: rising suicide rates among young people. My three sons have lost four friends to suicide in the last two years.

There’s growing homelessness in Los Angeles, although it’s gotten so much better under Queen Karen Bass’ reign!

The divide between the Haves and the Have Nots is growing wider and wider and no one seems to care.

There’s divisiveness in every corner of our lives, and on Los Angeles freeways, drivers aggressively cut you off and drive dangerously at high speeds.

When I walk in the mornings, no one says good mornings anymore, or peers into the stroller when I’m pushing my grand babies to sneak a glance at the baby.

We’re exposed to so much negativity these days that we must be intentional about replenishing our souls with positivity and sharing and receiving love. We must take care of ourselves.

So, today, I’m sharing an uplifting song.

Click above for Optimism or go to https://youtu.be/DyJf42TfJu4?si=35yLzpvlUqUeIRwY

Yesterday, I jogged — yes jogged:) — to it, and I’m about to jog to it again today. It makes me feel amazing, and I pray that it does the same for you.

Song writers are creative geniuses and Optimism’s lyrics are a poem. I actually had to listen to the song and write the lyrics down — you can thank me later. Haha. So, it’s cryptic and incomplete. But, I wanted you to see how beautiful they are:

The rain keeps falling and

 The sun keeps shining

 The grass keeps growing and

 The moon keeps rising

 The wind keeps blowing and

 The world keeps going around!

 Around, Around, Around

 The rain keeps falling and

 The sun keeps shining

 The grass keeps growing and

 The moon keeps rising

 The wind keeps blowing and

 The world keeps going around!

 Around, Around, Around

 Sitting down… on the bed to see what the day brings,

 You get pressure on mind

 Feeling so confined

 You can stress all day

 You can worry all night

 But I ain’t never seen worry ever change a thing

 Tell yourself I’m going to let it go

 My life is more than…just…

I’m not going to get caught up in the struggle.

 I’m keep shining

 I’m keep growing

 I’m keep rising

 I’m going to keep going

 Repeat!

 Keep the Faith!

You’d Better Think!

People aren’t thinking anymore!

They’re following others on Instagram, Facebook, and Tik-Tok

They follow celebrities, organizations, churches, anyone or anything that makes them feel better about themselves while eliminating the need for them to think.

I have six men in my life, my hubby, three sons, my grand baby son, and my brother. And often I have to depart from what they’re pushing me to do and think on my own! So, today, I reach back to a good old soul tune to remind us strong, independent minded women to think!

“THINK”

by Lyn Collins:

“If it’s not in the vision, don’t make no decision!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKix_06L5AY

Enjoy!

Essence and Black Women

Essence was designed to encourage Black women, to make us believe in our selves and to see our beauty when others did not. It was designed to help us think deeply about our essence, who God delivered us to the planet to be. And then within that framework, it inspired us to shine our light!

That’s what it did for me!

So, having my first indie feature film, One Night in LA, be an Official Selection of the 2024 Essence Film Festival is all the validation I need. I wrote it for Black women and for women of color. Honestly, I wrote it for ALL women, regardless of the color of our skin, because I, truly, believe women are the foundation of the world! The main character is bi-racial and her mother is white. The movie is about getting to the essence of who Crystal Thorn truly is, all parts of herself, white and Black( she identifies as Black woman), a mother to Black sons, and a wife to a Black man!

It’s a poem and a love letter to women! It makes us think about what’s really important in our busy lives. Because I produced it on a slim budget, it doesn’t have bells and whistles to distract you from the Essence of the message, which is a divine call to women to think deeply about our journeys and what positive offering our lives should be.

It’s a critical time in history, and we need deep thinkers like no other time. The country has slid backwards and women’s right, the rights of the LGBTQ community, the rights of creatives to think independently and share freely are all threatened. The democracy is in peril!

We must all think! Think about what we can do to help America to turn itself around. Throw your energy and effort in the fight for democracy. I’m fighting with my pen and stories for my bi-racial grand babies. I don’t want them to have less freedoms than I did.

What will you fight for, what will you fight with — your words, an act of service, your fierce love of others — and when will you jump in the ring and box for Democracy.

One of my favorite authors is James Baldwin. One Night in LA has a James Baldwin flare because I originally wrote it as a play, honoring many of his sentiments and ideas. Not many people know this, but the beginning of it was my final in an African American Literature class while I was working on my MFA at the University of California as a Distinguished Dean’s Fellow ( I just have to throw that in:). I’m proud of returning to graduate school to get an MFA after raising my sons and dropping them off at college. I loved my Professor, a lesbian African American Literature scholar, and that’s why my main character is an African-American Literature Professor, a DEEP thinker. It was a play.

Thank you Essence for seeing the value in One Night in LA and thank you for seeing me as a writer.

I love Essence! And James Baldwin. And You reading this post!