Mary Full of Grace
Mary J. Blige opens up about faith, friends and a painful secret

Share your opinion with other ESSENCE.com readers in the comment box below. Please read the following statement before doing so:

In consideration of others, please keep your comments concise and relevant to the story subject. Refrain from using offensive, inappropriate language. Because of the large volume of comments, we cannot and will not respond to individual inquiries; do not post them below. ESSENCE.com reserves the right to delete any entries or comments.

your comment:

your name:


Other comments on this article.

After reading this article and eternalizing it my mind began to question alot of things and basically it all starts with me Mary is such an inspiration to me. Mary's stories encourages me on alot of days and I just thank the Lord for using her as one ofhis vessels Ladies it starts with us! Praise The Lord

-Tiffanee A

"All I Can Say", that God has a blessing in store for you. It's not an every day thing you see celebritys talking about being saved or getting save and the affect of it. Mary , keep striving and believing and he will reward you.

-Phil B

I was really inspired by what Mary had to say in the Sept. issue of essence. it's a powerful thing to here the testimony of a 'new creature' coming back to the fold. Maybe this will inspire other lost sheep to seek God while He may stil be found. God bless you, Mary.

-Gee

I have to say that I am the biggest Mary fan around. I have been following her since day one. Her article touched my soul so much. I am so proud of her. She has encouraged me to do my best and keep on keeping on. I am trying to strenghten my walk with God and I am glad to know that she has accepted him and is sharing it with others.

-kesha

Danielle,

Being saved is definatley the "in" thing to do (smile). Remember, God love's you now, and he really always has. Those night's you cried yourself to sleep, ,and when that man broke your heart, He was there. If you want to check out a great video, rent this video called "No More Sheets", by Jaunita Bynum. It helped me at the beginning of my walk. Hope this helps. Love, M

-M

This was a beauitful issue all around but i really enjoyed the article about my girl Mary.She is such a strong,beauitful black women that I admire so much.The article it self was nice I enloyed it so much I love mary and I am so happy for her and the changes she has made in her life a lot of young women really look up to her. She really inspries me to do the right things in life. I feel she is the perfect role model for all us young women out there going throgh drama.Thank you Essence for your beauitful article and to Mary t

-sexyslim,FL

What a powerful statement in times like these, to know who's you are and who you are. And what you were created to do, and Mary is doing it. I Thank God for those who are not ashamed of the truth, for it will set you free on the inside, able to let His love shine through you. As we know He Has a perfect Plan Jeremiah 29:11-13 May the songs she sings reach a deeper depth into the hearts and souls of those who listen to the message.

-K. Nixon

I am happy that Mary is sharing her experience with God. However, I have a problem with the fact that she is ridiculing people who believe in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We may all interpret the scriptures differently and maybe she doesn't believethat she needs the Holy Spirit in order to born again, maybe she doesn't believe in baptism either, and that's okay, but do not insult the people who do.

-S. KIng

I would like to commend Mary for her story because it wasn't until about 3 mths ago when I realized my life wasn't right and with her story it only makes me wants to move foward with my life Thanks Mary and ESSENCE.

-Danielle

I response to the article, "Mary Full of Grace", I would commend Ms. Blige for being so open in regard to her Christianity. It's my belief that when we understanding growth through His leading, we mature into the vessel of honor that God has molded. That's womanhood with no shame. When this has been acquired nothing stands in the way of bearing fruit-the good works that God loves and expects from His own.

-Adrien Cyrus

Dear Stacey Guerra,

Young lady, it is important that we do not allow our zeal force us to misinterpret and take scripture or scriptural events out of context. Acts two does give us an account of the day of Pentecost and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.However, throughout the book of Acts are other salvific accounts that did not occcur "exactly" as Acts 2. The book of Romans tells us that if we believe in our hearts and confess with our mouths, we will be "saved." Furthermore, in Matthew 16 Jesus tellshis disciples that

-P. Umunna

This article is very moving and so important especially for the young people in this Hip Hop era. I pray that many people will be inspired by Marys story and ask Jesus to come into their live. Especially our young woman who have been abused and allowed themselves to be misused as is the case with many people who suffer from sexual abuse. Our God is truely amazing that he can take what is meant for our harm and turn it around into something good. God Bless Mary. I am proud of you.

-Sista in Baltimore

Actually I do have some news for Mary and other readers.

The same Bible that you and I read tells us that to be saved we need to repent. be baptized in Jesus name and to receive the Holy Ghost.

Read it, it's in the bible in the book of Acts, chapter 2.

Stacey

-Stacey Guerra

Mary, has always been a favorite artist of mine since her breakthrough album. I'm very happy to see that she has found so much happiness in her and her marriage. She has grown into a beautiful woman and mentor and is an inspiration for many women and young ladies whom are struggling with their own demons. Thumbs up!!! to my girl Mary J.

and keep your head up because you a very beatuiful.

-Markila Jackson

mary, great job girl, you have been an inspiration to me since you first started, you are my favorite female artist and always will be, i can't wait to hear your new cd, i am also so glad to hear that you changed, you are so beautiful, inside and out, with a very georgeous husband standing by your side, good luck in all you do, i will follow your music to the end


-dee-dee

Only in recent years have I become a fan of Mary's but after reading this article I not only feel a connection as a fan but as a sista in Christ. I've been struggling so much with the submission issue in my marriage (you know us sistas have a little trouble with the s- word)to know that she's been there too means so much and it also tells me that she's into the deep issues of the spirit not just the surface. She's inspired me to try a bit harder and I'll be lifting her up in prayer. If she thought shewas making an impact

-Sha-Reese- Maysville, KY

I have been a fan of Mary's from the beginning and she has grown into a beautiful gifted black woman whom I admire. My admiration comes from knowing what she has gone through in her life and have managed to overcome those odds. Sometimes the friends a person loses were really not a friend at all.

Mary is an inspiration to women of all ages, race, religion etc. She is awesome! Good luck Mary with your future plans. I can't wait to hear the new CD.

-T. Ives Marietta, GA

I've never been a Mary J fan UNTIL I read her article in this months issue of essence. Although beautiful, there was something about her beauty that was only surface...never reached her eyes and was reflected back in her empty smile. As a counselor (currently working on my Ph.D with a research interest in sexual abuse),I've worked with victims of sexual abuse and more recently with juvenile sex offenders, now that Mary has shared her experience, I realize what is was about her that haunted her music and robbed her of her j

-joan d williams

HURRAY for Mary. I've loved her music since the beginning and experiencing her growth from album to album has been like watching a sister or best friend triumph over adversity. What an awesome testimony, Girlfriend! It hit home for me too, especially the husband-submission part. I've been married for 6 years now to an awesome black man and I've only JUST worked through my issues.

-Jennifer

Mary J. Blige, beautiful woman. I've always felt a connection to her,even though I'm from another country, our background is not that much different. I read the article on her in essence and could not help but smile to myself, about how much her life is similar to minds, except for the drugs and alcohol. She has come full circle in her life especilly spirtualy. I too have found someone, after years of meaning less and bad relationships. I'm learning how to appreciate him and not flip out at his comments or advice. So to

-camille NY

I am a big fan of Mary J. and have read every article there is to read about Mary, but this article shows the growth in her spirtual, social, and mortal life. To know the things she have endured in her a life and to see where she is now is truly a testimony that needs to be shared with the world. I have always admired how beautiful Mary J. is on the outside, but now she is showing how beautiful she is on the inside. You have truly been an inspiration in my life(37 years)and I know if you can do it, I can to. Thank you fo

-Melody Ingram

All I can say is that Mary J. is such an inspiration and testimony for WOMEN and PEOPLE of ALL WALKS of LIFE!! When you go through a situation and realize that you are NOT STUCK.....god will lift you up! She has set an example that you can over your battles and still MOVE On. You go girl! GOD BLESS.

-Anonymous

thank God she is saved i admire her a lot and her song 'no more drama' keeps me back on my feet when i listen to it

all the best sis

-Anonymous

To all of my fan's:, thank you for all of your support, and understanding. To all of my hater's, thank you for your comment's, as they make me stronger everday.....

-Gb, Mary J.

Mary J. Blige is truly a blessed woman. As a Christian woman, I know what it feels like to change after the death of a loved one or friend. I don't have a testimony about drugs or alcohol, but I have had a lifetime of hurt and pain from parents, so called friends and employees most of my life. This is a new beginning for Mary. She now has a new life in Christ. I believe that God will use her mightily in singing the Gospel. I heard her singing a gospel sound a few years ago on the radio, and she was trulysincere with every w

-Anonymous

I love Mary. I have been a fan of hers since I was 12 years old. I went through drama with myself and relationships. Her and her music help me to stand. The reason why is because she puts God in her music. Thank you Essence for continuing to support MJB.She is helping young women like myself try to become better women and thus our relationships with others will be improved.

-KMR, NJ

I always loved Mary J. Blidge. Every since "Real Love". I believe her testimony will some day help someone else like she found God and helped herself. Love you Mary, Keep your head up.

-Markisha Redwood, DC

I Love you Mary J. Your beautiful, and your voice is powerful and it's touched my heart and millions of others. I noticed the changed in Mary a couple of years ago, she became more graceful a nd elegant and to here her sing live was just the ultimate. It takes tragedy sometimes in order for us to come closer to God and Im glad she has found a friend in Jesus. I love you Mary J.

-Valencia, Atl GA

I can honestly say I am now coming from a place in my life Mary has already been.I just recently got saved and I was not in a church catching the holy ghost either.And I know how she feels as far as not being able to describe what happened to her that moment when she found God.But he's real, and he's always apart of our everyday lives.And if it takes years of tradgy to find him, when you recieve him your in heaven for the rest of your days.

-Michelle

MJB is a beautiful person. You can see that through her music, her personality and her testimony. She, like most women of color, have been through a lot throughout her lifetime. But once you realize that it was not just those experiences, it was the love of God and the sacrifice of Jesus that got us through it, we change for the better. Thank you, Essence and Mary J for that enlightning article. I am a HUGE fan of Mary J and am waiting for more! May God continue to bless you!

-Tonia C. Wilson

hi i really feel what mary j went threw in her life time in i am glad that god had shower his blessings on her. the article was touching and i am glad she got all of that off her chest she is a strong lady and she really showed me my way when listening to her music all i have to say is that im her #1 fan and i love her dearly.

-sherry r

Mary feels like family to me and I'am as proud of her as I would be my sister, cousin or friend. I don't know if Mary realizes how many people's lives she has touched over the years and how many lives she continues to touch today through her testimony and music. Mary J. Blige helped so many women get through the madness in their lives. She presented herself to the world, through her music, as if she was one of us. I cried and almost died with Mary on the My Life CD because she spoke for me, her life wasmy life. Even though

-Anonymous

I am having a hard time finding the words to express my gratitude to Mary J for testifying in this manner. I had no father growing up, a mother that was a little on the dysfunctional side coping with a (along with the rest of my family). I was molested at an early age. I am married with a son. I am in the church, a minister and in a rough place in my life because everything that I ever experienced now requires an answer/resolution in order to move on. Thank you Essence and Mary J for making this artice aheart-to heart momen

-Anonymous O

It's so wonderful to see that she's living for Christ & professing her relationship w/Christ. Throuh her life's experiences, I can see alot of people, especially women getting saved. Praise God!

-Dee

I am so glad to see that Mary gave her life to Christ. About Aaliyah..I struggled with her death also. I've never met her, nor had the opportunity, but yet her death touched me in a way that it made me want to have a deeper relationship w/God. I've been saved for quite some time now, but my relationship w/God wasn't strong. Her death encouraged me. I'm not perfect, but I am striving to be what God has made me to be. Everyday He is making me & molding me to become his image. I've been a Mary J fan ever since high school. I kn

-Radiah W.

I thoroughly enjoyed this article from Mary J. Blige. Even though I have not gone thorough the things she has in life, I can truly relate to her pain. She has grown through her trials and through her faith in Christ. I love how she is giving God the glory because it's only through God that we receive the peace in life and she is experiencing that now. She is truly inspirational to women today!

-Deidre M.

I'd like to say that Mary is definitely being used by our GOD. The reading of this interview has somehow soothed my aching heart to know that I to struggle with the same demons as Mary and that I've been born again and I asked GOD to show me my wrongs and to give me knowledge on how to be. He's allowed Mary's story to minister to me. I feel that I am truly worthy of GOD's love and that I can be changed for the good.

I want to thank her personally for sharing her story.

GOD Bless her and the Essence Family

-Sylvia D. Nelson

Mary's interview was a blessing to read. Mary's gratitude and her giving Glory to God for saving her is awesome. Through the years of seeing Mary in the media I have never seen her look so beautiful. I believe in Jesus and I know it is because of him Mary has this glow and by risking public humiliation she is shining for God. Life is a testimony and for every storm someone survives I pray God is given the glory, what a wonderful Father to leave the Holy Spirit with us until he returns. Congratulations Mary and keep giving Hi

-Natashi Hudson

Mary J. I am so delighted in you. You have come a really long way. I am thrilled on your concept of spirituality. You will grow and with Christ all things are possible. The best of all to you and yours.

-Connie Steed

You go girl! Mary has come a long way from the girl from up north to the Woman that she is today and she fails to understand that everything that she goes through out in her music and will probably help someone else escape the trap that they are in. A GREAT, UNDERSTANDING MAN helps and belief in GOD. Kendu hold her down and show her a different side of life that she has been lacking. Best of luck and Stay strong.

-Tammy wilson

I gotta say that Mary J. Blige is the voice of women all around the world. I listen to her albums and you can certainly connect with some of the songs in some personal way. I am so happy that she is saved and I hope she continues to be successful and blessed. I simply love her and I can't wait for the new album!!! We love MARY down here in the A-town!!!!

-Selena W

What God did for Mary He will do it again for all who want to be saved!

Congratulations Mary! It's okay to be saved and to be born again. When others who are not seeing you can help change them. There's a reason for everything. We don't want to see anyone die but God is in control. Now the music industry can see that it's okay to LOVE, Live, and Praise God!

-amybneworleans

I was so touched by Mary's story. I think Mary is one of the finest and beautiful singer around now. I am so very happy that she has come to a point in her life where she knows that she knows God. I wish her and Kendu many many blessed years together andlook forward to hearing the news about a new arrival one day. Mary your story has truly inspired me a woman who has gone through so much with men to continue to seek God and pray that I also will find inner peace one day. Stay strong Girl and I Love YOU!!!!!

-Gloria

I like Mary am a woman who watched my mom be abused by men I said, I would never let that happen to me. I use anger and jealousy to protect my heart until one year ago I married a god fearing man. I too learned humility by reading God's word the bible and I am still learning to use self-control. At Hebrews 4:12 it says that, "Gods word is alive and exerts power and is sharper than a two-edged sword..." If we read and apply it in our lives we can change for the better

-Lena

I would like to thank you on the article about Mary J. Blige I must say she has truly grown into a beautiful person. I am happy to hear that she has seen that the life she was previously living was not healthy. People need to realize that believing in God and having him in your life can definitely make you a happier person. I was raised to believe in God and always live my life accordingly and I feel this developed me into a strong woman today. Sometimes as we grow and we loose friends it hurts and wefeel alone but we s

-T. Lucas

Let me start by saying that Mary J. Blige is the absolute Queen! So many of these young R&B girls like Fantasia and Keisha Cole, just to name a few, want to be just like her. Every female that debuts wants to sound like, look like, wear their hair like, dress like and even have a sad story to tell just like Mary. There is only one Mary. All hail the Queen Mary, who is now oh so full of Grace. I Love You Mary, stay strong.

-JLS

I am so very proud of Mary J. for her personal growth and the guide to become more christ like. I feel you wholeheartedly, because I'm at that place where I have been mistreated by men, but mainly by myself. I understand the life that's in front me as well as the pain and suffering that has followed me from my past to my present. I have two boys ages 14 & 6 and I tell you I will "kill them" if they were dispectful or abused a woman in any way, which is my reasons to change my emotional, self distructive life.


-Anonymous

I love Mary J. I am so proud of her accomplishments and her ability to change her life for the better. When she state that, "He showed me that as much as I want to have the last word, as bad as I want to be right, sometimes I have to walk away from an argument" that hit home for me. I am just like that. I need to learn that I am not always right and I don't have to have the last word. What's the point? Thanks Mary. You are a force to be reckoned with. BTW, "What's the 411" is my favorite album by Mary J.

-Charmaine

Mary Blige is a beautiful woman. I'm happy that she has found peace and love in her life. May God continue to bless you Mary.

Kendu is a lucky man.

Forever A Fan


-Jon

Right now in this moment, as a man, I want to apologize to Mary (and all women who have went through it) for all the men who have broken a woman's spirit in one way or another. Mary is a wonderful and beautiful woman.

-Anonymous

Mary,

May God keep blessing you and your family.

-Jen Burgess

Mary,

Goad loves us so much, that He will do whatever it takes to save us. I am so happy that you were at the point of listening, combine with your desire to change. Stp on sista! Step on!

-Donna harris

I love Mary and I'm happy for her...I can't find this cd Breakthrough....is it out yet?

-zet

GOD knows i'm so happy for you mary.Unforunetly i'm still stuck in the "No More Drama&Love&Life"stage..I'll find my way..Please Keep doin what you doin.Dont let NOTHING pull u back ...


-ALMOST SAVED

Truly there is only one that can unconditionally love us for who we are. And because of God's unconditional love he leads us to other's who has enough of God's love in them to love us in very special ways. God uses people to show his love when we allow him to use us. I so glad that regardless of my bitter sweet life experiences, I am still willing to allow God to use me to love a man with a pure love and I know that there will be a man to return God's expressed love back to me...

Keeping Love Alive !

Blesslady


-Blesslady

PPS: The article did not indicate whether Kendu is also saved. This issue is important, not just for his own eternal destiny, but to understand his wife's spiritual journey and development. Being "equally yoked" will empower them to stand strong, together, and face the challenges that are certain to arise in their relationship. Blessings to them both.

-Malcolm

Why is Mary on the cover AGAIN so soon? She told us all this stuff to sell her last CD. I guess Mathew Knowles thought she should repeat it to sell her new CD. Its sad Essence had all these REAL talented sistas in the August issue but keeps putting the same tired people (Beyonce, Monique, Mary) in every issue and on the website. Lets get back to honoring the talent and not the famous!!!!Mary my advice is start a family and learn what life is TRULY about and please don't get your parenting skills for Whitney! Oh Mary leave a

-Tired of Essence

PS: Did anyone notice too that it was through a MARITAL relationship that Mary J. found her "groove"?

-Malcolm

Kudos on this article about Mary J. It's the first one I've read shows Mary J. emerging as a true role model for women who came from her type of humble/angry beginnings and are still trying to find their way. It's clear that the Lord has touched her lifeand is "renewing" her mind. It's time now to see "the change" in her music and videos, and the impact she's having, serving God in her (ministry) industry. For it's never enough to just speak the speak; faith without works is dead.

-Malcolm

I have seen many people, on tv and in person, be as hatefull and domineering as Mary described, yet still someone loves them so unconditionally that they still manage to get married. I spent 4 years looking at myself, listening and talking with God about me and then I thought my real man came. But people really just love you as long as you're nice and giving. The minute you display human flaws, they attack your character and break you down. His love is the only unconditional love in life.

-Queen City

I'm sitting here in tears, because my love for Mary has been for so many years. I'm so happy that she has turned her life around, and was able to received God into her life. I can clearly fell it in her words. I hope she continues to go in the right directions. I know with her message it will help others like me who struggle with there faith.

-T.Wright

I would like to congratulate Mary on being saved. That is a major accomplisment, especially in he music industry. I grew up with Mary on the radio. I have always admired her honesty (even when she later admitted that some of the smiles for the camara were a cover for her unhappiness. Although I have never been a world renowned musical artist,I do read books, sing gospel, reggae, r&b, and I also enjoy writing stories and poety, so I have seen and heard things from the Top of the world to the bottom. Ialso had to take a s

-RHONDA

I am happy to see that God's spirit is changing Mary for the better. She was created for God's glory and I pray that she will continue to seek God. Being saved is to Glorify God with your lifestyle. And I pray that he is being glorified with all of our lifestyles. God gives us the strength to go throught the valleys of the shadows of death but he always sustains us when he has a mission for us to complete and God is not finished with any of us!

-AA

I am very proud of Mary and any other woman who decides to live a better life. It is sometimes hard to get rid of the toxic things and people in our lives because we don't realize they're unhealthy for us. Mary's honesty and her road to living a better life has definitely encouraged me to do just that! Stay strong

-Rasheema /Philly

Oh my god, first off God bless you, and may he keep blessing you! Mary you are a beautiful women always has been and, always will be. I have admired you from day one, what's the 411, and real love. You go girl and you are right about being saved, I went through the same thing with my life when my grandmother died and I never thought about it like you did with Aliyah, my grandmother saved me. I listen to your music when I'm happy, sad, depressed and you always bring me joy. I'm glad to know that you are at a point in your

-KS

Give Sister Mary a Break!

Don't pick her apart based on what she expressed in this article. If you read carefully, you'll see that Mary is a work in progress, as we all are. What is there to be concerned about? The most important element of being "saved"is accepting Jesus Christ into your heart - didn't she say that? She couldn't have even done that without the Holy Ghost. Don't criticize her, pray for her. And remember, He who started a good work in Mary, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

God Bless!

-Jewel

I feel Mary to the upmost,the pain she spoke of is real just like being saved and God's Love is real. It's just too bad we have to go through things that almost destroys us to realize that. Thank U Mary for your strong words and most of of my beautiful sister keeping it real. God Bless.

-L. Harrington

I am concerned because Mary professes to be saved but doesn't understand what being saved means. Opening up a bible doesn't save you. Saying a prayer doesn't save you. Beleiving in your heart that Jesus died so you could live doesn't save you. The Holy Ghost is a spirit that dwells in your spirit man. It is a gift from God. The Holy Ghost is what keeps you "Saved". It renews your mind. It makes old things pass away and makes all things new including the way you live, your lifestyle become new. This is God's way of being "sav

-S. Wilks

Mary shows us that having money isnt the solution to our problems. Deep down, we all have the same issues. The same low self esteem and lack of self love and in the end we face the same God. In spite of all things we are all abundantly blessed to be alive and well today. To have our jobs, our families, our friends, our sanity, our faith. We are so lucky to have such a giving, forgiving, trusting, wonderfully loving GOD!

Bless you Mary!

-Juana Torry

I love Mary J. Blige! You would have had to live a life very similar to truly understand what that girl is saying in her words to everyone. As far as her friends are concerned they will also come to realize things in time, they have no choice but too. Everyone has a lifepath that eventually has to be recognized, whether good or bad because everything has some point and meaning that leads back to God. I hope that the rest of Mary's life is absolutely spectacular.

-Donna Marie Posey

I feel everything that Mary said in that article. It brought tears to my eyes I felt it so much. God always listens to an humble heart and that is what she now has. Being submissive doesn't make you weak, it makes you stronger in the Lord and in his will because now He can use you to help others. And that's what it is all about, helping others to come to Christ and receive the gift of salvation. God bless you Mary!

-Stephanie

This is Mary's coming out party and my sister, I am going to say a prayer for you. When the woman at the well met Jesus, she went from a Prostitute to a Preacher in one meeting because of the Grace of God. Yes Mary, you are full of the favor of God. There is no mishap that you have said to the world "I'm saved!" This is your 8th album and 8 is the number of 'New Beginnings!' Begin my sister to walk in the path that He is leading you to! Bring in the multitudes and your sister in Jersey will be watching and praying for

-Tunisha

Oh Hail Mary! I am truly grateful for what God has done in the life of Mary J. Blige. I admire her boldness and willingness to be unashamed and say to the world "I am saved". I believe there are others in the entertainment industry that will one day come forth and honestly declare "Jesus is Lord and without him nothing is possible". Much love to you Mary!


-Beverly, Charlotte, NC.

Mary is truly full of grace. She is a rolemodel to me and all other girls that felt that they were worth nothing. Today im a better person because i had mary to look up to. Im finishing college and about to earn my degree and hopefully open my business.So thanks.

-kamyah

Mary is truly "Full of Grace". I have admired her since the beginning and have so much respect for her. After reading part of the article above, I have a new found way to communicate with my husband. As usual, you have come through for me, Mary!


-BJ

i think that mary is an inspiration for all women, because she's so honest about herself and she's not afraid to tell it to the world, for example the jealousy stuff. i think that's why she is loved that much, because deep inside we all know there are certain things in our lives, that feel weird and that are painful, but we cannot name these things. she does that and she shows that it is so important to do some soulsearching, because that's the only way to feel free and to be able to love and be loved. i love her since da

-ceyda

Your story was inspiring. It definitely spoke to my heart. I have gone through some things in my life. If it wasn't for the Lord I honestly don't know where I would be right now. In spite of it all, I am still here. I thank God for the good and the bad times. That which does not kill us makes us stronger. This is something the old folks use to say when I was growing up. It is so true. Continue to live your life for Christ and he will bless and keep you.

-vern

Mary J. Blige's "My Life" CD was the soundtrack of my soul. When it came out I was at a crucial time in my growing into a woman and her words reflected my emotions in so many ways. Though I hadn't experienced many of the heartbreaks she sang about I knew that there were times to come in which I would feel the exact same way. Her story is a testimonial and inspiration to young black women!

-Tae

mary has really influence me . i have been experience the same situation in relationship and praying for help. she has been through so much and her music is what keeps me going. i have every album she has put out and waiting on the new album release ! keep positive and never give up to what u want. believe in him and your wish will ccome true

cresha

virginia

-cresha

Mary made a good point in understanding that opening up the Scriptures and reading them is the first step in getting saved and closer to the Father. Many good online ministries like www.YAHSHUAH.com have helped me with my studies and allowed me to changemy walk as I put to death the old man and draw closer to HIM.

-Deborah

I've watched Mary J. Blige grow into the remarkable woman that she has become. In some ways she was always that woman, but when you discover how remarkable you are for your own self...unselfishly, you know it is sincere. All my life I have dealt with my own self-esteem issues and that's why I relate to Mary so well. Her music has captivated me for many years, her songs were my songs. It doesn't seem real to be that connected to someone I've never met, but in a sense each positive step she takes enables me to move forward

-Angela, Philadelphia, PA

I love the music of Mary J, and I love her testimony. Her music is and always have meaning to me. Listening to the passion that she puts into a song assures me that things are going to be o.k. I think that she is a beautiful black woman and a strong black woman. Keep the faith and know the power of GOD..


-Brandi, Florida

Mary is so beautiful and full of grace. I admired her strength and growth in God. What I love most about her is that she is so REAL. God is definitely using her and may she continue to be blessed and be a blessing to others.


-Dawn, Maryland

Mary I just want you to know that you have been there for me thru your music, in so many ways. I love you as a person so much. Keep smiling, and stay focued. I'm trying to use your life as a guide for mines. I can't wait for the new album, The Breakthrough.

-Derrick S. Douglas

The cover of this month is Essence... is truly a beautiful person, Mary,Mary...Mary. She has been one of my favorite celebrity,thru trials and tribulations...her beauty is skin deep, her character is one of a kind...but she always kept it REAL. Keep On Believing In Yourself and God!

-Cinna J , Peoria, IL

Wow, one more time.

Whoo!, this is just great. Mary you don't know me personally, but you know me. I can tell!

-Lovejoy

Mary, Mary, Mary,

Wow, I've always admired Mary, I don't know how, but I always saw the strength in her, no matter what valleys we have to come and go thru, when we get thru, it's like seeing a beautiful butterfly with beautiful colors. Thank you, Thankyou so much for everything. When your spirit is broken, God is usually the only one to heal it with time alone with him.

-Lovejoy

It does my heart good to heart someone confess their faith and share how they express their faith. We all have unique relationships with God and express ourselves differently. I get in my Mary J moods sometimes and will only listen to her music over and over again. To Mary I say keep walking in your newness. II Corinthians 5:17


-Carla

Mary, you are truly a gift from GOD. When you've been blessed and have made it through the storm, you cannot be quiet about it. I face the same persecution when I talk about how GOD has been so good to me. You are a beautiful, strong role model and don't ever apologize for being happy and following the LORD. GOD bless your faithful union.

-Karen

You are sooo enlightening. God Bless you and this happiness that you have with God, and your husband.

-Regina

mary she's inspiration to me. she's being through alot the average person would havegave up. mary she's who i look up to she's being through alot but never gave up . That's why know she's my role model. keep your good spirit and always put him first.

-ebony smith 25

I was so glad to see Mary J make some positive changes to her life; It is not every day that someone as high profile as her in the hip hop world would become a Christian and make some life altering changes; I wish her the very best.

-N.A.Crawford

Mary has been a inspiration to me since Real Love. I have followed her from the beginning. I am now 26, saved, engaged and loving the Lord. He is my eye opener, my listener, my peace, my joy. my everything. The Lord is love and I am to learning to be love in all that I do. A lot of people tired of hearing Mary talk about God but when you have a testimony its suppose to be heard to encourage others and speak to others hearts that may not know the Lord. I love God and I love Mary for keeping it real and not acting phony in her

-Kristie J.

Mary's experiences reminds me of my life. I'm 25 years old, and I haven't been in a successful relationship. Sometimes I've questioned not having a father figure in my life, and sometimes I've questioned myself and abilities. I've tried going to church to seek GOD, but I know it's more than going to church. So, I'm going to open my bible and start reading like Mary. Mary thank you for being real, honest and open. Take care

-Tab

I think this article should be read by people who have ever doubted about God and his goodness. I have been a fan of Mary's for a while and I must say she is definitely an inspiration for everyone. I am so happy for her and I hope for the best for her. I can't wait for her new album, I will definitely get it. Much Love

-Nicole

Mary is real deep & honest...I so glad that she is happy and I agree with her about being saved is about believing JESUS died so we could live.

-Net

Now that's what life's all about - grace. And clearly Mary has realised this. Good on her for turning her life around and putting her trust in the one who knows. She seems like a really intelligent woman too, so it's encouraging to see her put it to use.It's also encouraging to know that, seeing as I too have been saved from my own destruction by God, someone else can relate to me.

-Fabi M

Mary,l am glad to see mature as a woman. So many of us don't know how to forgive past hurts, accept the person we have become, look within first finding out own fault and joys and being thankingful for the many blessing God has given to us all. I see the growth within you, I hope that many of the young ladies who admired you from the beginning of your career read this article and take assesment of their own lives and what they are doing to make it better for them selves. God bless you and your always.


-Dana W.

i finally get it! at first i wasn't clear about mary's direction with love & life. that's saying a lot since i've been a HUGE fan since what's the 411?

i feel good and happy for her. reading this...i just feel good about where she's headed. mary, if you're reading this please know that someone out here is cheering for you and praying for a happy marriage for you and peace in your life girl. you're beautiful and have great style and i'm GENUINELY happy for you.

-rae

Long before Mary's rebirth, I'd always admired her because I knew from the very beginning when she entered this business, there was something about Mary. What then, I didn't know;nevertheless, I was right. She is where she is for a reason-a special reason that is. I believe she is a spiritual anchor being used to help pull other women to higher grounds. Her beauty and voice are only few a the many gifts bestowed upon Mary. Most importantly, it has been the many, many challenges in Mary's life that compelled her to examine he

-KennyD. Henderson

Mary is the epitome of a real woman. God bless her and everyone around the world. We need to go to God instead of wanting others to take our pain away and give us love. You have to be real with yourself before you can be real with the world.

-S.K.

Love and blessing to you all. God has worked wonders in Mary's life. I hope and pray that she stays on the straight and narrow and keep loving herself and her husband. Alot of so called stars could take a tip or two from her life.

-Aurora Fox

I fell in love with you a few years ago when I heard about your salvation through Jesus Christ, and I am more in love with you after reading this. I pray that you will continue to be a blessing to those that love you. Thank you for sharing your life asan open book. There will be many that will come to know Christ from you being so willing and bold to open up. Thank you! Much love and respect.

-Anna

Beautiful, just beautiful. Dear Lord, bless this beautiful woman.

-Anonymous

Mary,

I am so proud of you! You are strong, happy, and doing okay! You go, and glow girl! I wish you the best, and I love your music! I have followed you FAITHFULLY since 1994!

-Melissa Potter