Here I Stand...in a Beautiful State

By: Tameka Foster

Narrated by: Tameka Foster Raymond

Length: 8 hrs and 56 mins

Publisher's summary

Long before Tameka Foster Raymond was known for her high-profile marriage and drama-fueled divorce, she lived a vibrant life as a self-made success in the fashion world, curating the wardrobes and images of many of today’s award-winning entertainers. In this honest, sincere, witty, and at times gut-wrenching memoir, Tameka opens up about her childhood influences, coming of age in Oakland, and losing her first love without losing her decorum, dignity, or her ability to dream. She shares details of her own brush with death as well the heartbreak she endured after losing her 11-year-old son, Kile.

Here I Stand is about growth, renewal, perseverance, and optimism—and ultimately about striving to remain in a “beautiful state”. Just when you thought you knew everything about Tameka Foster Raymond, you don’t. Here I Stand finally lets the superstar stylist speak her truth. After years of being maligned in the press and on social media, the most misunderstood woman in entertainment unapologetically lays it all on the line in this heartfelt memoir. Bravely, Tameka reveals a vulnerability that has rarely been seen. With grace, humility, and a wicked sense of humor, Tameka shares the agony of a life marred by profound losses. Straight from her mouth to your heart, Here I Stand invites you along for a tumultuous and meaningful ride as she revisits a deeply emotional journey that taught her that no matter what the world may think of her, here I stand.

©2021 Tameka Foster Raymond (P)2023 Tameka Foster Raymond

Beautiful real life story

I enjoyed listening to this book. It was a beautiful life story with reflection for us to learn from

WHAT IN THE WORLD WAS SHE THINKING

Usher treated her like a Queen. She was destined to sabotage her relationship. Oftentimes, we as women fall so deeply in love we will destroy our dreams. Tameka does an excellent job in sharing her life story to demonstrate this fact. This book is a life changer for me. It teaches me how to hold on to the people and dreams that I cherish. There will always be someone or something waiting and watching for the right moment to turn your joy and happiness into pain and despair. People can only do what we allow. So be strong and hold on to your dreams. Excellent book! Great for relationships and life in general.

Honest review

Her story and her transparency. The way she has endured losses and successes is inspiring. All any of can do is take one day at a time.

Phenomenal Book by a Phenomenal Woman!!

I loved this beautifully written memoir where Tameka, through her authentic and erudite voice, shared of an intense bond in a high profile marriage, unrelenting public scrutiny, betrayal, unspeakable tragedy, forgiveness, healing, enlightenment, and renewed purpose. A truly inspirational read.

Their love was transformative and embodied the kind of profound partnership that many dream of but few experience. While both fully committed to maintain that bond, it seemed the entire universe had other plans. Seemingly, no one of any relevance to the marriage supported it. They screamed it from the modern day rooftops right into every computer screen hooked up to the Internet.

I listen to the book on audible and it was abridged with sound effects and music and a little of Tamika’s singing voice as she weaves us through the story of her life at times humorously and at others poignantly.

I have always been team Tameka and rooted for her from afar and I still do.

I don’t know either Tameka or Usher or anyone who knows them. I have always thought she was incredibly beautiful. And, yes for me, her complexion does factor into that equation because she has amazingly flawless skin.

When I learned she was being vilified for being a single mother, being older than Usher, and for having (beautiful) brown skin — by black people, I was disgusted. I hate she had to endure this senseless cruelty. Was Usher not raised by a single brown skinned mother? So for many of us, our minds are still so tightly bound to white supremacy that we believe this stunningly beautiful woman - inside and out is not worthy of this man because of her complexion?? I would suggest anyone who believes that is in need of self reflection and help because that is a serious symptom of self-hatred.

Sadly, not only did the marriage not survive the World Wide Web of commentary, but Tameka experienced the worst betrayal, a mother or any parent can experience. That is, to be falsely accused of being an unfit parent. Then tragedy really struck.

In such a short period of time, Tameka suffered so much loss. Through family members passing, relationships ending, career shifts, and relocations. She went through these life changing events with grace, dignity, and honor. She refused to use the same dirty tactics (against advise of counsel) that were used against her in court, which probably cost her custody of her children. She took the highroad which just shows you who she is as a person. This is a character driven and principled woman.

At this point, Tameka realized she was on this under-flipping inversion, sidewinding rollercoaster called life, alone. With nowhere else to turn, she leaned into faith. Spending time in nature, talking to G-d and meditating, she found peace, forgiveness, and purpose. She has tapped into her spirituality and creativity while on a mission to honor someone very special (you have to read/listen to the book to find out who) with more wonderful books - on sale now. I cannot wait for mine to arrive.

Realness

I enjoyed every moment, emotion, and thought that went into this book! It was relatable in so many levels, and just serves as a reminder that we all have highs and lows… it’s simply how you overcome! I also enjoyed the spiritual reminders that were scattered throughout the book, we all need that reminder from time to time! Trouble don’t last always!!

When You Know, You Know!!!

I never knew she went through all these things in life. Tameka's story is so touching.

There's Power in Healing

Assuming that we know someone due to the public opinion of others can signify that we need to sharpen our discernment. This book is symbolic of the pit to the palace. Let's open our hearts & minds to learn from others rather than judge who perceive them to be. Job well done Love; I pray that God continues to elevate you in all things Him!!!

LOVED THIS!!!

Completely vulnerable, open and honest. I was shocked and inspired by how open Tameka was in sharing jer story. I found myself unexpectedly crying with her and she read her words. Thank you for sharing your story with us and allowing us into your life. You will help and inspire so many with your words.

Simply Amazing!

This book was so intriguing to read! Very well written and narrated! Each chapter was better than the previous one! I have always thought you were cool, but now I’m sure of it!

Love

A mothers love for her children is beyond everything. The book was very heartfelt and honest. Also sadness of what a woman has to endure.