Elevation
by Phillip McGuire Wesley
Words make you think. Music makes you feel. A song makes you feel a thought.” – E.Y. Harburg
In this column, we celebrate the sacred space where music and literature meet—where thoughts become feeling, and feeling becomes movement. Let’s talk about apps that elevate and initiate a presence of mind to contemplate.
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HE’LL BE THERE, David Bratton featuring Maurette Brown Clark

David Bratton, the gifted songwriter behind the beloved anthem “Every Praise” is back with another powerful musical offering, “He’ll Be There,” featuring the incredible Maurette Brown Clark. Bratton has a passionate way of writing music that not only uplifts but deeply ministers. “He’ll Be There” is a soul-stirring gospel experience that reminds us of God’s constant presence, no matter what we face.

“This is a song I wrote around the time I had prostate surgery. God gave me hope that I would get through it. Three days later, I was playing basketball. God showed me how much He was there.” – David Bratton

He’ll Be There album cover
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“18 MINUTES” Peter Bregman

“18 Minutes” really challenged the way I think about time, focus, and purpose. What stuck with me most is his 18-minute daily framework—it’s simple but powerful. This book helped me become more intentional with my time, more aware of distractions, and more focused on what truly matters.

One quote that really hit home for me was:

“We waste so much time trying to be someone else, or doing what we think we’re supposed to do, that we miss the opportunity to be ourselves.”

18 Minutes book cover
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THE RETURNING CITIZEN’S SURVIVAL GUIDE, Frank Patka

Helping returning citizens is a true passion of mine, and “The Returning Citizen’s Survival Guide” is a powerful resource in that mission. Frank Patka writes from experience, offering practical, no-nonsense guidance on housing, jobs, healthcare, and more. Whether you’re reentering society or supporting someone who is, this book is a lifeline, and a great tool to spark ideas for the future.

The Returning Citizen’s Survival Guide book cover