Kim Anthony

Know Your Risks Produced by Khari Anthony

2011-11-08T21:55:00.001-05:00

Appearance on 100 Huntley Street

2011-01-21T16:50:00.005-05:00

Last night I flew back home from Canada after doing a live interview on the national TV show, 100 Huntley Street. I was interviewed by Moira Brown who is so warm and welcoming, she made me feel very at home. Check it out...

100huntley.com - UCLA's First African-American Female Gymnastics Champion Kim Hamilton Anthony

Perseverance

2010-12-02T10:48:00.000-05:00

All of us have either given up, or thought of giving up at one time or another. When things get difficult and frustrations mount, walking away from a challenge is the easiest thing to do. But it is when we persevere, that we are able to experience the joy and fulfillment of accomplishment.

Without the sweat and tears, accomplishment would be just another moment in time. There is something about the struggle that makes the end result much sweeter. Without resistance there is no growth. Without growth there is no victory and without victory there is no prize.

I encourage you to run your race to win! And if you fall along the way there is a God who cares for you, who is willing and quite able to put you back on your feet. He'll even carry you when you need Him to. None of us can do it alone. In order to persevere, we all need each other and more so God, who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think.

Kim Anthony at the Miami Book Fair International!

2010-11-20T14:55:00.000-05:00

Join Me Sunday, November 21 at 4 pm
Click on the link for more details:
Kim Anthony at Miami Book Fair International

Kim Speaks Out! @ Saddleback Church

2010-10-12T14:04:00.000-04:00

I was recently invited by Pastor Josh Griffin to speak at four services for Saddleback Church’s High School Ministry (HSM). I arrived on the church campus and was taken immediately to “The Refinery”. The most incredible youth facility I’ve seen, which houses Saddleback’s high school and junior high school ministries. I was blown away! It’s a hang out place where young people are not only taught the word of God but they are challenged to take ownership of their ministry. They are encouraged to come up with their own creative ways to minister to the communities like Compton and Watts, people groups like Native Americans living on reservations in New Mexico and children in Kenya. The HSM staff builds into their lives in such a way that these young people become equipped to change the world for Christ, while utilizing the unique gifts God has given them. There are no “cookie cutters” here!

HSM is a group of students who are all in different places when it comes to their walks with Christ, yet not matter where they are, the atmosphere created by HSM continues to draw those who may be struggling with their beliefs.

“I have been so closed minded to so many of the things you mentioned. God used you to break down those walls in me tonight. Thank you for speaking; I’m ready to recommit to God’s ways in those areas.”

Saddleback HSM Student – October 2, 2010

These words were written on a comment card and giving to me by one of the high school students who heard my talk at Saddleback Church. What a bold stand this student has chosen to take in the midst of a world that is so diametrically opposed to the ways of God.

But she was not alone. After sharing my story and the various mistakes I’ve made as I’ve searched for love, value and acceptance, several students approached me with their own stories. My heart broke to hear what some of them are going through, but to see the freedom they had been given to speak out about those things as a result of what I shared about my own life, encouraged me to no end. God had taken the scraps of my life and transformed them into encouragement for others and a weapon against the enemy who would love to steal the joy, the life and the future of these courageous young men and women. I am ever so grateful and honored to have been a part of what God is doing in the midst of this ministry.

2010-04-18T21:25:00.002-04:00

Event:	Unfavorable Odds...a Book Signing
	www.socializr.com/event/757403303
Hosted by:	Friends of Kim Anthony
When:	Apr 21, 2010, 8:00 PM
Location:	Books & Books of Coral Gables
	265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, FL

Upcoming Event

2010-04-18T21:23:00.000-04:00

View Unfavorable Odds...a Book Signing on Socializr

Upcoming Event

2010-04-02T18:09:00.000-04:00

Event:	Unfavorable Odds...A Book Signing
	www.socializr.com/event/858401586
Hosted by:	Scherrie Payne, Corine Duke and V. Scott Hamilton
When:	Apr 11, 2010, 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location:	Diva Decor
	6081 Center Drive, Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles Book Signing

2010-01-12T06:38:00.002-05:00

This past weekend, I went back to LA for a UCLA Gymnastics Pioneer Reunion; celebrating the athletes who were the foundation of this 5-time National Champion gymnastics team. It was truly an incredible experience. Spending time with my former teammates and others who came before me reminded me that once a Bruin always a Bruin. The reception we received was warm and meaningful to all of us.

THURSDAY

I stepped of the plane on Thursday Morning around 10 o'clock. Once my feet hit the ground it was non-stop. I met my mother, who flew in from Illinois, at her gate, battled the rental car line (packed with fans there to see the Rose Bowl) and headed straight for UCLA. We handled the logistics of my signing, which would take place at the season opener on Saturday, talked publicity and signed some books.

Next, I spent some time catching up with Head Coach, Valorie Kondos. Olympic Champion, Nastia Liukin was there as well as we reminisced about the earlier days.

After going all day without having a meal and enduring some nightmarish hotel issues, which I won't go into, Mom and I finally had a nice meal at Houston's and settled down for the night.

FRIDAY

I spent an hour with the UCLA Gymnastics Team. It was truly an honor to be back and to have the opportunity to sit with these incredibly talented athletes. I spoke to them about the importance of their choices when dealing with everyday life. Our choices directly affect our future, be it positively or negatively. After a Q and A session, I signed books for them before they went off to practice.

We hopped in the car to meet a friend for lunch at the Cabana Cafe in the Beverly Hills Hotel, did a quick walk on Rodeo Drive to do some window shopping and went back to our base for an hour or so before heading to BLT on Sunset Blvd. for dinner with my teammates.

SATURDAY

We slept in and got to UCLA around 1:00 PM. My sister in-law joined us to help with the book sales. I ran into former Bruin great, Tasha Shwikert, who has grown into a beautiful young woman. I was reminded about the days when I first met her as a 15 year old. My how time flies. We set up for the book signing in Pauley Pavilion then headed to a meet and greet at the UCLA Hall of Fame. It was great to see my former coaches Jerry Tomlinson and Scott Bull. It had been ages since I set eyes on them. After chit chat and tons of photos we rushed back to Pauley where long lines had already formed at the entrance. I'm told that UCLA gymnastics meets are the third highest attended sporting events behind men's Basketball and football.

The meet was a whirlwind as I scrambled to greet guests, sign books, and meet the requests of photographers and reporters. I was finally able to break away and find a seat on the front row next to the other Alumni. But by that time, the meet was almost over. So, the only part of the competition I got to watch was the last four UCLA floor exercise routines. I must say, the choreography and tumbling was so excellent, that they were worth the trip, alone.

The alumni were introduced, lots of photos were taken and I did another signing at the end of the meet. I enjoyed meeting gymnasts and parents alike, who were encouraged by my story and looking forward to reading the book.

After the meet was another late night with my former teammates. This time it was at West Restaurant at the top of Hotel Angeleno near Bel-Air.

SUNDAY

I slept in and then took my mom to the airport where she flew back to the cold of Illinois. From 2-5 PM Chet and Gloria Bias hosted a private book signing in Ladera Heights. It was a fabulous time of thought provoking conversation. Attendees included representatives from book clubs, who will consider making my book a part of their repetoire.

The evening closed out with the last few guests seeing me out as I rushed to catch the red-eye back to South Florida.

My cousin, Scottie (whom I love, dearly), drove me to the airport, where he happened to be picking up his boss, actress Sheryl Lee Ralph. It was a special treat to see her and to sign a copy of my book for her. She was very warm and encouraging. It was the wonderful end to marvelous trip.

2009-10-29T14:13:00.003-04:00

At this week's Wives Study, we talked about our roles as daughters and how we can be free to be ourselves and still be great daughters to our parents and even to our in-laws. As I was preparing for this study the first verse that came to my mind was one of the 10 commandments (Deuteronomy 5:16) "Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you,so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you."

When I thought about God’s command for us to honor our parents the first question I had was, "how?" Then I thought about all of the good things the Bible encourages us to do and all the verses that go along with it. I knew there was no way we could cover everything the Bible has to say about living a life that is honorable, not only to parents but to everyone with whom we come in contact.

So, I continued to ponder this verse…"honor your parents." How do you honor your parents? By doing things that please them, that benefit them, and are best for them. And again, since their were so many great pieces of advice in the Bible, I thought I'd borrowing an idea from a TV Show, where the hosts not only tell the guest the best clothing to wear for their body type, but more importantly, they tell them What Not To Wear…which is also the name of the program. On this show they put the victim in front of this 360 degree mirror so they can see themselves from all sides. And then they proceed to tell them that most everything in their wardrobe is a prime example of What Not To Wear. So today, we put our selves in a 360 degree mirror and took a look at What Not TO DO. My thought behind this is that if we avoid what God hates, then we will bring honor to him as our Heavingly Father and as a result, we honor our earthly father and mother as well. ☺

In order for us to know what NOT TO DO, we took a look at Proverbs 6:16. Where we read about seven things God hates. We used those items as a guideline to help us check our character when it comes to our interaction with our parents. Really, these are seven things to avoid when it comes to any relationship, including our relationship with God.

SEVEN THINGS TO AVOID

1. Arrogance
2. Telling Lies
3. Murder
(Not just physically but also think in terms of the assassination of someone's character)
4. Devising wicked schemes
5. Running rapidly to evil
(or even being quick to associate with "evil" people)
6. Bearing false witness while under oath (Lying again)
7. Spreading strife among others

As you can imagine, we had some serious dialogue about these seven items in relation to our parent to daughter and in-law to daughter relationships. It was lively to say the least.

I'll pause right here to give you some time for thought. Is it possible to avoid these 7 things in your relationships? Let me know your thoughts and I'll post them for others to see (with your permission). Thanks for visiting!

Kim

Update

2009-08-21T13:05:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone!

It has been so long since I've updated my blog. Please accept my apology. I've been spending the majority of my time preparing for the release of my upcoming book. I've spent hours upon hours doing re-writes.

I did a full day photo shoot, for the cover, a little over a week ago. I had the most incredible time! I worked with a brilliant photographer, Russian born, Natasha Kertes. I have never worked with a photographer so energetic and creative. As an artist as well, Natasha has an eye to create poignant artistry in her photos. When I saw them for the first time, I was blown away by the moods she captured. I have worked with several professional photographers from L.A. to New York and I have never had better photos taken of me. I can't wait until you see the book cover!

I was referred to Natasha by make-up artist Taryll Atkins, who has an incredible knack for capturing the best features of anyone she works with. She is such an encourager and makes you feel like a million bucks, while she's working with you. Taryll's work for my photo shoot, was breathtaking! I don't know how she did it, but she gave me this beautiful, natural look. The makeup didn't feel heavy at all. I didn't feel "over done", yet I looked far better than I do sporting my own "natural look." Smile. Taryll and Natasha are a dynamic duo with so much talent and they were an absolute blast to work with.

I'll try to update you more often as we get closer to the release date of the book. God has truly been bringing things together and I'm looking forward to experiencing all that he has in store. May God's joy be your strength and his peace be your guide.

Blessings,

Kim

What People are saying about Kim's Book...

2009-06-06T22:15:00.006-04:00

"Kim's story is encouraging and inspiring. She shares how The Lord has seen her through life's difficulties. I appreciate Kim's authenticity. I know it to be true in her life as well as this book. Let the pages speak to your heart as they did to mine. Thanks Kim!"

Dr.René D Rochester, CEO Urban S.E.T. Inc

“Kim Anthony’s book is a moving account of faith, reconciliation and the power of forgiveness. It is both painful and uplifting – one incredible journey that should not be missed.”

Chris Riley, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, wife of Hall of Fame Coach Pat Riley

"This is a story for anyone who feels the hurdles are too high, the valleys too deep. Kim's journey from the streets of Richmond to the UCLA Hall of Fame will fill you with joy and hope, rooted in the certainty that perseverance is the greatest gift of all."

Lesley Visser, CBS Sportscaster.

"Riveting, heart-breaking, heart-warming and inspirational: Beautiful Hope has it all. From wanderer to pilgrim, from the neighborhood to world-class achievement, from lonely to deeply loved, Kim Anthony has lived an extraordinary life and invites all of us to share in the hope-filled highlights."

Gary Thomas, author of Sacred Marriage and Pure Pleasure.

"Beautiful Hope holds not just a compelling story about one woman’s life – but a critical lesson for every one of us. Kim's willingness to share openly about her past pain and disappointment, as well as her times of gladness and triumph, is a tremendous encouragement. This book will help every reader to recognize that God is working in their life, even when they don’t recognize it.”

Shaunti Feldhahn, bestselling author, For Women Only

"Knowing Kimmy through her college career, I was painfully aware that the adage "Still waters run deep" pertained to Kim Hamilton in ways I couldn't begin to imagine. It wasn't until years after Kimmy graduated, got married and had children that she shared with me her story. Hearing it, and now being able to read about it, I am able to finally make sense of the mysteries that surrounded her often quiet introspective behavior."

Valorie Kondos-Field, UCLA Gymnastics Head Coach (5 NCAA National Championship Titles)

Motherhood

2009-04-16T15:37:00.002-04:00

After I finished college, I was totally focused on my career. I was a movin' n' shakin' kind of person always figuring out how to make things happen. If one door closed, I went through the next one. Constantly, my focus was on building a successful career.

After I got married, that focus didn't change. Even though I landed in New York, then Illinois I always found a way to do my thing. Then, I got to the point where I felt is was time to have children. At first I wrestled about whether I should achieve all of my dreams first, then have a child or have one right smack dab in the middle of my progress. After some time in prayer, smack dab in the middle was where it would be.

As I went through my first pregnancy I was a radio announcer. I loved my job and had no plans of quitting. In fact, I had planned to have the baby and go right back to work. I'd find a good daycare to watch the baby while I was away from home.

However, My plans changed the night my first born entered the world. I had not done a lot of babysitting, so I was very inexperienced when it came to handling a baby. That night, he was crying and I couldn't seem to give him comfort. I walked him and rocked him and nothing worked. As I held him I pressed my face against his, and that's when it happened. I felt his first tear fall against my face. It was like a faucet of pure love flowing like a river. This child who was once destined for day care had, in an instant, stolen my heart. I refuse to let some one else take care of this precious child. No one will love him like I do. I thought.

That night was when I made the decision to stay home to raise him and put my budding career on hold. I would never again, view motherhood the same.

To be continued...

What are my Gifts?

2009-03-30T10:42:00.003-04:00

I received a note from one of my readers asking: "How do you know if you are using the gifts God has given you?" My answer to her is as follows...

First of all, you need to know what your gifts are. Once you do, then you can operate in those gifts for the greater good of those around you.

One simple way to find out what your gifts are, is to look at the things you are really good at. What is it that is challenging for others but comes easy for you? Many times we don’t think that our gift is a gift because it’s too easy or it just comes natural to us.

Ask the people closest to you to tell you what gifts they see in you. There is usually at least one common thing that stands out to everyone.

Once you discover it, then pray and ask God how he wants you to use it. Any time you use your gifts in a way that honors God, as opposed to a way that would lead people astray, harm people, etc. then you are bringing him glory. It may not always be direct ministry, but God is able to use you to touch lives ANY where.

Also, it’s normal to second guess ourselves, especially early on in our relationship with God. But God isn’t stressed about it. Just continue to spend time with him and ask for his guidance and he will reveal his will to you. I heard a pastor say just last week that God won’t give you his will until he knows you are ready to do it. In other words, when you’re ready to say yes to it (even though it may not be what you thought) then he will show you. Some times we already have in mind what we want to do and will only follow God when his will lines up with our agenda. Yet, I have learned that if we follow him even when it doesn’t make since, he is able to direct us into a place where we can not only use our gifts, but also find the type of fulfillment and purpose greater than anything could ever imagined.

If you are interested in tools that can give you a more detailed view of how you're wired you can visit: www.myersbriggs.org It has very useful tools that can help you to discover the types of jobs you'd like most, the best work environment for you and other helpful information.

If you decide to check it out, let me know what you think.

The Lincoln Memorial

2009-01-19T12:29:00.007-05:00

Today, I saw a photo of Barack Obama standing in front of the statue of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln memorial. It was moving to see the President who wrote the Emancipation Proclamation, which led to the freeing of Black slaves in this country, watching over (as it seemed) the man who would become the United States first Black president. Only two months ago I had taken a similar picture of my sons in front of this same statue of Abraham Lincoln . They have studied him in school and I used it as a teaching moment to help them understand the importance for them to know their history and to appreciate the privileges they now enjoy.

To my boys, having a black president is not that big of a deal. "Of course we can have a black president", is their attitude. They are not old enough to fully understand the struggles our people have shared, though we do our best to educate them about it. The racial slurs they've already had to endure at such a young age have, in most cases, rolled off their backs. They have heard so much truth about God's perspective of them, that when racism threatens to poison their system, there is no room for it to stick. They've been told that they can become whatever they desire to be. With God ruling their lives there are no boundaries strong enough to keep them from becoming what He calls them to be.

I've heard people debate about whether or not God placed Barack Obama into this position of leadership. "If God has called him to this postion, did he not call George W. Bush into his?" It seems rather simple to me. God is sovereign and he does what he wants to do. Just as he can exalt a man, he can also bring him down. What I believe we are missing in this debate is the fact that there is a season for everything. While George W. Bush was president, it was his time. When Barack Obama becomes president at noon tomorrow, it will be his time. And whether we agree or not with his stance on issues, it is important that we pray for him as he leads our country. "The prayer of a righteous man availeth much". It is not only what our new president will do with this country that will or won't bring the results we so desire, but also what we as citizen can do in our service to others and on our knees in prayer.

I won't get in to who I voted for and whether or not I'm a fan of our new president, but I will say that I am honored to be alive to see this historical event, which I truly thought would never happen. Blessings to you all.

The New Year

2009-01-02T13:46:00.004-05:00

Wow! 2008 was an incredible year. For many of us, there were the best of times and the worst of times. Each year, I spend time praying for direction from God for the new year. Sometimes, I am to continue moving forward in the same directions. And other times I have been lead to move in a different way.

This year, I clearly believe that God is continuing to call me to complete surrender. Each time I think I have completely surrendered to him, I find that there is "something" that I have continued to hold on to. He is so patient with me. He just walks beside, showing his will for me step by step. And you know what? Every time I surrender something else to him, I become more content, more joyful and less stressed!

Some times I say, "Why didn't I give this up earlier? It would have caused me a lot less misery." The truth is, that I didn't give it up sooner, because I wasn't ready to give it up. I wanted my own way. I trusted that "I" knew what was best for me and "I" knew what God wanted from me. All a long, I should have been trusting him, instead.

I could kick myself for being stubborn or self-centered, but the lessons I learned in the process are priceless. Intellectually, I could tell you what trusting God was all about, but until a person's faith is put to the test, it does not develop into that "unshakable" faith God wants us to have in him. Now my faith has grown and I'm able to obey God and trust him in the larger things.

Now, I'm looking forward to exercising my new level of faith in 2009 as I follow God's direction. Hopefully, I'll be able to step out of the boat (of what I deem safe) and on to the water where miracles happen. God Bless you all! Happy New Year!