Here I Stand...in a Beautiful State

De: Tameka Foster

Narrado por: Tameka Foster Raymond

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

Thanks for sharing your story.

Your story was both enlightening as well as inspiring. Sometimes we are out in places that challenge us to overcome those obstacles. Keep striving and live your best life.

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.

Loved this book!!

I truly enjoyed getting to know the real Tameka Foster Raymond! Forget what you heard, read the book! I'm so glad that she was able to tell her side of things! She was very transparent about all aspects of her life.

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.

Her strength

Love the story. Her strength is admirable from dealing with the loss of a son and almost a second, dealing with a celebrity husband and all the hate that came with that. Peace and happiness.

The Vulnerability is Incredibly Healing!

This is a powerful memoir. It’s amazing how someone’s life can seem to be the sacrificial lamb for others to heal, change, and become the best version of themselves. This is definitely a book to heal the masses! Once you read it and understand what I’m saying, please share it with everyone that you know! This book should be for every woman, everyone who has lost a friend, been betrayed my family, and has suffered loss of loved ones! I honestly could not put this book down! It has truly blessed me. I pray that Tameka’s life is beyond blessed. She has lived a blessed life but has experienced so much loss, and pain. I pray that The Most High gives her double for her trouble. I have laughed and cried reading this masterpiece. I pray that no matter anyone’s reasoning for reading that they get all of the wisdom that Tameka shares. Thank you Tameka for this blessing. It reminds me to above all things, STAY GRATEFUL and continue to put LOVE first.

Lose the Background Music

She could have done without the background music. Overall, I am glad she was able to share her story of her life. I really enjoyed it and it makes me view her in a different and more positive light.

Awesome book!

Tameka reminds me so much of myself when it comes to her personality. Love your energy!