MAKE TIME FOR YOU!!!!!
Contrary to popular belief, you are the most important person in your life. Make time for you! The happier, healthier, peaceful, rested, energized, filled, joyful, loving, etc. you are the more you have to give to others. If you are empty you have nothing to give!
Make time for you by making great choices with your time. Somwhere in your day you should have at least 15 minutes to yourself to simply sit in peace, quiet, and reflect or possibly meditate.
Tomorrow is January 1st, 2013!!!!! We made it another year. Leading up to this posts we've spoke of starting your new years resolutions on the 24th of December so by the 1st of January its already a habit. We've spoke of losing weight, exercising, saving, investing, simply making great choices with your body, health, and finances.
Where here is a starter how to guide:
When you wake up say Thank You, simply give thanks....try saying thank you through out your day!
Pray, meditate, chant, spend time in devotion - find stillness if only for 3 minutes however you choose!
Exercise, stretch, get your body moving, do something, if only for 5 minutes optimal 15 minutes in the morning, you will definitely see improvements in your body and health....as long as you are changing your eating habits!
Eat Breakfast! It doesn't have to be a large meal but your body needs energy just as your car needs gas. Fill it up, with fruits, nuts, berries, granola, yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, SOMETHING....
Enjoy a cup of hot tea, cocoa, or even coffee, take the time to take in the aroma, sip and relax.
Brown Bag Your Lunch! This will save you money and hopefully be a healthier option than fast food. Not a sandwich person, take left overs, not a left overs person, figure it out LOL!!!!! Salads, fruits, raw veggies, sandwiches on multi grain bread (substitute spinach for lettuce), water....something...make sure you're eating something RAW everyday!!!!
Cook dinner at home! And not out of a box or freezer bag! Use fresh herbs and spices if you can, parsley and cilantro are great additions to most meals, cumin, cinnamon (just a sprinkle but its great for many things, look it up f you don't trust me), and others. Replace extra virgin olive oil with ALL cooking oils, grape seed oil is great as well. Simply ditch vegetable and corn oil altogehter.....
Have a relaxing bubble bath, get massages regularly (great health benefits from this as well).....
Read a good book!
Watch less TV!
Create a budget! Do you know where your money is going?
Invest in your favorite brand if you can! You wear Nikes? Buy stock! You eat at McDonald's (I hope not too often!!!), buy stock! Have every apple product that's come out this year, Buy stock! I think you get my drift.
Try yoga, pilates, zumba...something :-)
Seek out a financial planner or someone you know who's great with their finances!
Take a class that interest you!
Take yourself on a date!
Get to know you, in order to fully relate to others you must 1st know yourself, then understand that you are unique and while others may share your beliefs and ideals they will not always think or react like you and that is ok!!!!!!!
You've set goals, have plans, and dreams? Do something that gets you closer to seeing your dream become reality, research, map out a plan, talk with others, network, get started!
Each day try to be better, do more, get one step closer to your goal than you were the day before. Be in constant competition to out do yourself! You deserve nothing but the best.
Let's commit to ending 2013, healthier, wiser, wealthier, happier, with more joy, peace, understanding, knowledge, self-control, kindness, and LOVE.
Why am I speaking about the end of 2013 and it hasn't begun? because I heard it said somewhere BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND! The time is NOW, NOW is all that you have, FAITH is NOW...
Before you say you don't have time, re-read the title...MAKE TIME....get up 30 minutes early do whatever it takes to be the best you in 2013 and beyond...
MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF, Do something for you....
Be blessed and be a blessing! Namaste! Peace! Love! Joy! Happiness! Kindness! Self-Control!
A blog created to E-nspire, E-ncourage, E-ngage, E-nform, and E-mpower!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Surya Namaskarh
Health benefits of Surya Namaskarh,
The simple Surya Namaskar that has been practiced in India for years has recently found a whole lot of takers.And if you want a good start to your day, what better than the Surya Namaskar, which is known... to have a host of healthbenefits. There are 12 different poses to do in a Surya Namaskar and you're known to have finished a complete round when you've performed two consecutive sets.
Surya Namaskar stimulates almost every system in your body - the cardiovascular system because it keeps the heart strong and, the digestive system as well as the nervous system.
- It also makes endocrinal glands like the thyroid, parathyroid and pituitary glands, function normally.
- Practising the Surya Namaskar regularly is also known to ease stress and giveyou peace of mind besides increasing your levels of concentration.
-If you have trouble sleeping at night, the Surya Namaskar will help you fall asleep without using any external stimulants.
The simple Surya Namaskar that has been practiced in India for years has recently found a whole lot of takers.And if you want a good start to your day, what better than the Surya Namaskar, which is known... to have a host of healthbenefits. There are 12 different poses to do in a Surya Namaskar and you're known to have finished a complete round when you've performed two consecutive sets.
Surya Namaskar stimulates almost every system in your body - the cardiovascular system because it keeps the heart strong and, the digestive system as well as the nervous system.
- It also makes endocrinal glands like the thyroid, parathyroid and pituitary glands, function normally.
- Practising the Surya Namaskar regularly is also known to ease stress and giveyou peace of mind besides increasing your levels of concentration.
-If you have trouble sleeping at night, the Surya Namaskar will help you fall asleep without using any external stimulants.
Shared by Amazing Facts on FaceBook
Be a blessing and be blessed! Namaste! Peace! Love! Joy! Happiness! Self-Control! Kindness!
Friday, December 28, 2012
Love Yourself in 2013, SAVE, INVEST, BUILD WEALTH
Scripture says, "a wise man leaves an inheritance for his children's children," many African Americans are religious, yet we miss out on the fact that we are to leave an inheritance to our grandchildren. How can we do that? By training up our own children, giving our children a head start in life, which in turn gives them the ability to give their children a head start and so on, generation after generation. So, why isn't this happening?
Understandably, African Americans are less wealthy than our white counter parts BUT is that excuse? Absolutely not. While some races have inherited millions and even billions from their parents and grandparents allowing them to generate more money, everyone had to start from somewhere. Keeping in mind the history of America, the stealing of wealth from Africa and other nations, etc. Getting past all of that and living today, how can we give our children a head start in life and ourselves.
SAVE! The golden rule of wealth creation is to PAY YOURSELF 1ST. The golden rule for some others is pay God first and then pay yourself. Which ever category you fall in, paying yourself should come before paying any of your creditors. This can be possible by limiting your creditors to begin with.
I remember a family gathering where my uncle spoke about saving, he said he saved pennies until he could save nickels, nickels until dimes, etc. so on and so forth. Saving doesn't have to be an astronomical number that leaves you in a bind however, simply get in the habit of saving. If its a penny a day or a dollar SAVE something.
SPEND LESS THAN YOU MAKE! I get it, many are living pay check to pay check trying to make ends meet, however I can guarantee almost every one spends money they don't have to. Dining out all the time for lunch at work, stopping by Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, etc. Somewhere, somehow there is something you can cut out or cut back on to ensure that you aren't spending more than you make. How can you spend more than you earn? I have no idea yet, the bottom 5th of earners spent double their incomes, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/26/bottom-fifth-of-americans-spent-double-their-incomes-2011_n_1915992.html.
CUT OUT EXPENSES! The Internet, Cable, etc. are luxuries, yes I said it luxuries. There are many things we feel are necessities that are not. While they are highly entertaining, they aren't necessities. A secret that some may not know, while the wealthy have TVs, cable etc. few of them spend a lot of time watching TV if at all. That maybe why they are wealthy....hmmm.....just a thought!!!!!!! Limit dining out to 1 or 2x/month and other things. Create a viable plan that allows you to treat yourself every now and again without going overboard.
INVEST! Not sure about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities etc.? First use the world wide web at your disposal and research. Don't be afraid to invest, risk can be a good thing. You are risking more not taking a risk at all as the interest rates on basic checking, savings, money markets, and CDs is not even worth mentioning. Now, many banks are charging customers that have the least money, the most to use banking services ouch! MANAGE YOUR CHECKBOOK AND ACCOUNT! Keep up with your account and balance it. Paying unncessary overdraft, overdraft protection, and bounce check fees is a waste of your hard earned money.
Back to INVESTING! If you and your children do not have life insurance that increases in cash value, get some now. Life Insurance can be used for much more than simply burying someone. PROTECT YOUR INCOME! INCOME PROTECTION is insurance that helps you just in case something were to happen to you, God forbid, but again insurance is for just in case of emergencies. Take part in your companies 401k AND 403B programs, if your company doen't have one, consider starting an IRA or ROTH IRA on your own and contributing to it regularly.
We can't give you investment advice BUT we can introduce you to an excellent FINANCIAL PLANNER, that can assess your financial situation and help you get on the right track to meeting your FINANCIAL GOALS.
Speaking of FINANCIAL GOALS, do you have FINANCIAL goals for 2013 and beyond? If you answered no, "write the vision and make it plain!!"
The wealth gap between blacks, browns and whites continues to increase http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2011/07/26/wealth-gaps-rise-to-record-highs-between-whites-blacks-hispanics/, however we can do something about it. Forget the name brand labels, expensive sneakers etc. for your children, think about college funds, down payments for purchasing investment properties, and business start up funds. Plan for the future while living in the present. Teach your children the value of a dollar, what it means to save, invest, and that their worth is not determined outwardly but by what's in the inside. Too many black folks are acting rich but living poor! Something has got to give...
CREDIT! Take credit seriously, credit cards should be used for EMERGENCY purposes ONLY. Paying interest on new clothes etc. is for lack of a better expression, hustling backwards. CASH IS KING! I've heard a saying if you can't afford it you don't need it. I think about myself all the shoes in my closet I haven't worn, dresses etc. Not that I have a lot but I have more than enough. The shopaholic in me is slowly dying down but every now and again something speaks to me and I just can't help myself so this post is for me as well, as I'm not getting any younger and my son is getting older, also I want to be able to continue to be a blessing to others and not think with a survival, me and mine, scarcity mentality.
NEED CREDIT REPAIR, I know someone that can help you with that as well. Your credit score determines interest rates, car insurance rates, job hiring decisions, credit holds a lot of weight, it something that needs to be taught to children at a young age and protefted. If you have CASH you don't need credit but we can talk about that later....
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP! There are some excellent programs in the nation as well as my home town Chicago that are helping 1st time home buyers and low income persons purchase property. Look into www.naca.com (nationwide) and the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (Chicago), for those in other cities I'm sure there are programs in your area as well. If you are paying your rent every month, hopefully, on time, you can purchase property.
PURCHASING A CAR! Start on-line if you can and get price quotes once you've found the care you want from different dealers. Once you go into the dealership you have a leg up on negotiating the best deal for you. Most Internet quotes will tell you they will beat a competivie quote by so much money. If you must finance a car, finance at the lowest possible rate. I was able to finance at 0.9%, need help purchasing a car, email us we will give you all the advice you need. Once your car is paid off, SAVE THE CAR INSURANCE MONEY YOU WERE PAYING UNTIL YOU CAN AFFORD TO PAY CASH FOR ANOTHER ONE!!!!!!!! There is always the option to by used or a certified pre-owned vehicle. I read somewhere th at 80% of wealthy people purchase used/pre-owned vehicles.
As African Americans we have to change our viewpoint on money, credit, saving, and investing and simply make wiser decisions. Time out for keeping up with the Joneses, its time to close this wealth gap, and create a legacy for future generations. Again, if you would like to speak to a financial service provider I can direct you in the right direction.
COLLEGE SAVINGS! For those who love to shop, www.upromise.com has an excellent program that allows you to save by living your everyday life, grocery shopping, dining out, purchasing gas, traeveling, and shopping online at retailers. I've been a member since my son was born. You can link the account to a high-yield Sallie Mae savings account as well. Upromise can be used by anybody for more savings, not just for those with children.
Think about and look into scholarships, grants, etc. when your child enters HIGH SCHOOL, maybe even the 8th grade. Get a feel for what's out there, what's required, deadlines, etc. Also consider the fact that college may not be the best option. $50 to $100K could be better spent starting a business or investing in property....
This is in no way and end all be all BUT it is a good start for things to think about and PREPARE and think about the future.....after all "a wise man leaves an inheritance to his children's children!
Be a blessing and be blessed! Namaste! Peace! Love! Joy! Happiness! Prosperity! Kindness! Self-Control!
Understandably, African Americans are less wealthy than our white counter parts BUT is that excuse? Absolutely not. While some races have inherited millions and even billions from their parents and grandparents allowing them to generate more money, everyone had to start from somewhere. Keeping in mind the history of America, the stealing of wealth from Africa and other nations, etc. Getting past all of that and living today, how can we give our children a head start in life and ourselves.
SAVE! The golden rule of wealth creation is to PAY YOURSELF 1ST. The golden rule for some others is pay God first and then pay yourself. Which ever category you fall in, paying yourself should come before paying any of your creditors. This can be possible by limiting your creditors to begin with.
I remember a family gathering where my uncle spoke about saving, he said he saved pennies until he could save nickels, nickels until dimes, etc. so on and so forth. Saving doesn't have to be an astronomical number that leaves you in a bind however, simply get in the habit of saving. If its a penny a day or a dollar SAVE something.
SPEND LESS THAN YOU MAKE! I get it, many are living pay check to pay check trying to make ends meet, however I can guarantee almost every one spends money they don't have to. Dining out all the time for lunch at work, stopping by Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, etc. Somewhere, somehow there is something you can cut out or cut back on to ensure that you aren't spending more than you make. How can you spend more than you earn? I have no idea yet, the bottom 5th of earners spent double their incomes, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/26/bottom-fifth-of-americans-spent-double-their-incomes-2011_n_1915992.html.
CUT OUT EXPENSES! The Internet, Cable, etc. are luxuries, yes I said it luxuries. There are many things we feel are necessities that are not. While they are highly entertaining, they aren't necessities. A secret that some may not know, while the wealthy have TVs, cable etc. few of them spend a lot of time watching TV if at all. That maybe why they are wealthy....hmmm.....just a thought!!!!!!! Limit dining out to 1 or 2x/month and other things. Create a viable plan that allows you to treat yourself every now and again without going overboard.
INVEST! Not sure about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities etc.? First use the world wide web at your disposal and research. Don't be afraid to invest, risk can be a good thing. You are risking more not taking a risk at all as the interest rates on basic checking, savings, money markets, and CDs is not even worth mentioning. Now, many banks are charging customers that have the least money, the most to use banking services ouch! MANAGE YOUR CHECKBOOK AND ACCOUNT! Keep up with your account and balance it. Paying unncessary overdraft, overdraft protection, and bounce check fees is a waste of your hard earned money.
Back to INVESTING! If you and your children do not have life insurance that increases in cash value, get some now. Life Insurance can be used for much more than simply burying someone. PROTECT YOUR INCOME! INCOME PROTECTION is insurance that helps you just in case something were to happen to you, God forbid, but again insurance is for just in case of emergencies. Take part in your companies 401k AND 403B programs, if your company doen't have one, consider starting an IRA or ROTH IRA on your own and contributing to it regularly.
We can't give you investment advice BUT we can introduce you to an excellent FINANCIAL PLANNER, that can assess your financial situation and help you get on the right track to meeting your FINANCIAL GOALS.
Speaking of FINANCIAL GOALS, do you have FINANCIAL goals for 2013 and beyond? If you answered no, "write the vision and make it plain!!"
The wealth gap between blacks, browns and whites continues to increase http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2011/07/26/wealth-gaps-rise-to-record-highs-between-whites-blacks-hispanics/, however we can do something about it. Forget the name brand labels, expensive sneakers etc. for your children, think about college funds, down payments for purchasing investment properties, and business start up funds. Plan for the future while living in the present. Teach your children the value of a dollar, what it means to save, invest, and that their worth is not determined outwardly but by what's in the inside. Too many black folks are acting rich but living poor! Something has got to give...
CREDIT! Take credit seriously, credit cards should be used for EMERGENCY purposes ONLY. Paying interest on new clothes etc. is for lack of a better expression, hustling backwards. CASH IS KING! I've heard a saying if you can't afford it you don't need it. I think about myself all the shoes in my closet I haven't worn, dresses etc. Not that I have a lot but I have more than enough. The shopaholic in me is slowly dying down but every now and again something speaks to me and I just can't help myself so this post is for me as well, as I'm not getting any younger and my son is getting older, also I want to be able to continue to be a blessing to others and not think with a survival, me and mine, scarcity mentality.
NEED CREDIT REPAIR, I know someone that can help you with that as well. Your credit score determines interest rates, car insurance rates, job hiring decisions, credit holds a lot of weight, it something that needs to be taught to children at a young age and protefted. If you have CASH you don't need credit but we can talk about that later....
PROPERTY OWNERSHIP! There are some excellent programs in the nation as well as my home town Chicago that are helping 1st time home buyers and low income persons purchase property. Look into www.naca.com (nationwide) and the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (Chicago), for those in other cities I'm sure there are programs in your area as well. If you are paying your rent every month, hopefully, on time, you can purchase property.
PURCHASING A CAR! Start on-line if you can and get price quotes once you've found the care you want from different dealers. Once you go into the dealership you have a leg up on negotiating the best deal for you. Most Internet quotes will tell you they will beat a competivie quote by so much money. If you must finance a car, finance at the lowest possible rate. I was able to finance at 0.9%, need help purchasing a car, email us we will give you all the advice you need. Once your car is paid off, SAVE THE CAR INSURANCE MONEY YOU WERE PAYING UNTIL YOU CAN AFFORD TO PAY CASH FOR ANOTHER ONE!!!!!!!! There is always the option to by used or a certified pre-owned vehicle. I read somewhere th at 80% of wealthy people purchase used/pre-owned vehicles.
As African Americans we have to change our viewpoint on money, credit, saving, and investing and simply make wiser decisions. Time out for keeping up with the Joneses, its time to close this wealth gap, and create a legacy for future generations. Again, if you would like to speak to a financial service provider I can direct you in the right direction.
COLLEGE SAVINGS! For those who love to shop, www.upromise.com has an excellent program that allows you to save by living your everyday life, grocery shopping, dining out, purchasing gas, traeveling, and shopping online at retailers. I've been a member since my son was born. You can link the account to a high-yield Sallie Mae savings account as well. Upromise can be used by anybody for more savings, not just for those with children.
Think about and look into scholarships, grants, etc. when your child enters HIGH SCHOOL, maybe even the 8th grade. Get a feel for what's out there, what's required, deadlines, etc. Also consider the fact that college may not be the best option. $50 to $100K could be better spent starting a business or investing in property....
This is in no way and end all be all BUT it is a good start for things to think about and PREPARE and think about the future.....after all "a wise man leaves an inheritance to his children's children!
Be a blessing and be blessed! Namaste! Peace! Love! Joy! Happiness! Prosperity! Kindness! Self-Control!
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Love You and Lose Weight in 2013!!!!
LOVE YOU AND LOSE WEIGHT IN 2013!!!!
Yes, love you, the first step to successful weight loss and the ability to keep the weight off is to love you. Your body image is a direct reflection of how you feel about yourself. Now don't get me wrong everyone does not have to be a size 4 in order to be healthy and love themselves, you can find a healthy size 18 and an unhealthy size 2. Its all about diet, exercise, and total personal care. Every skinny person isn't healthy, and every plump person isn't unhealthy.
Nevertheless, many people struggle with body image, self esteem, and it is reflected in their weight; as the one thing we can control as adults is what we put into our bodies. Some eat out of comfort, others out of depression, whatever the reason to successfully lose weight, keep it off, and get to your optimal weight and size you have to dig deep and truly ask and answer these questions for yourself, DO I LOVE ME? AM I HAPPY WITH WHAT I SEE WHEN I LOOK IN THE MIRROR? Think about the foods you eat and when you choose to eat them eg. cookies, brownies, ice cream, ding dongs, ho ho's, twinkies etc. ARE YOU AN EMOTIONAL EATER? DO YOU FEEL IN CONTROL OR CONTROL WHEN YOU EAT?
Avoid the 3 C's, do not compete, compare, or categorize. Do not compare your weight loss success to someone smaller than yourself. That is setting yourself up for a trap, YOU have to be comfortable with YOU and the skin that YOU are in, if that's a size 3, 8, 10, 12, or 20. If you are truly happy with yourself and HEALTHY, ALL is WELL!!!!
80% of your weight loss success is directly related to the CHOICES you make when it comes to the foods you eat. Yes 80%, the other 20% is related to exercise, so if you plan to exercise and not change your diet, you are setting yourself up for failure.
Diet affects A LOT, memory, clarity of mind, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma, and a list of other ailments can be CURED or PREVENTED with DIET! Modern medicine is great and wonderful, but to have to take MAN MADE pills every day for the rest of your life when the MOST HIGH has blessed us with the best vegetation, herbs, and plantation for life, health, and vitality is interesting to say the least to me. I went out to eat with a friend from grammar school that I am rebuilding a relationship with. Her doctor diagnosed her with diabetes and immediately provided her with a prescription. There was no mention of diet, changing her diet, any of that. She decided within herself to change her own diet, not take the medicine and her diabetes is under control!
Americans are some of the most obese people in all the world. Why? Because we have access to so many fast food restaurants, also because we are a I need it now society, nuke it (microwave it), eat it instantly out of a box society. We must rid ourselves of that mentality.
The best foods are foods that are fresh and RAW! Try it in your weight loss eating or drinking (juicing) something a serving of raw fruits and vegetables everyday. While drinking a V8 or taking a vitamin supplement is good, nothing beats the real thing.
Yes, love you, the first step to successful weight loss and the ability to keep the weight off is to love you. Your body image is a direct reflection of how you feel about yourself. Now don't get me wrong everyone does not have to be a size 4 in order to be healthy and love themselves, you can find a healthy size 18 and an unhealthy size 2. Its all about diet, exercise, and total personal care. Every skinny person isn't healthy, and every plump person isn't unhealthy.
Nevertheless, many people struggle with body image, self esteem, and it is reflected in their weight; as the one thing we can control as adults is what we put into our bodies. Some eat out of comfort, others out of depression, whatever the reason to successfully lose weight, keep it off, and get to your optimal weight and size you have to dig deep and truly ask and answer these questions for yourself, DO I LOVE ME? AM I HAPPY WITH WHAT I SEE WHEN I LOOK IN THE MIRROR? Think about the foods you eat and when you choose to eat them eg. cookies, brownies, ice cream, ding dongs, ho ho's, twinkies etc. ARE YOU AN EMOTIONAL EATER? DO YOU FEEL IN CONTROL OR CONTROL WHEN YOU EAT?
Avoid the 3 C's, do not compete, compare, or categorize. Do not compare your weight loss success to someone smaller than yourself. That is setting yourself up for a trap, YOU have to be comfortable with YOU and the skin that YOU are in, if that's a size 3, 8, 10, 12, or 20. If you are truly happy with yourself and HEALTHY, ALL is WELL!!!!
80% of your weight loss success is directly related to the CHOICES you make when it comes to the foods you eat. Yes 80%, the other 20% is related to exercise, so if you plan to exercise and not change your diet, you are setting yourself up for failure.
Diet affects A LOT, memory, clarity of mind, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma, and a list of other ailments can be CURED or PREVENTED with DIET! Modern medicine is great and wonderful, but to have to take MAN MADE pills every day for the rest of your life when the MOST HIGH has blessed us with the best vegetation, herbs, and plantation for life, health, and vitality is interesting to say the least to me. I went out to eat with a friend from grammar school that I am rebuilding a relationship with. Her doctor diagnosed her with diabetes and immediately provided her with a prescription. There was no mention of diet, changing her diet, any of that. She decided within herself to change her own diet, not take the medicine and her diabetes is under control!
Americans are some of the most obese people in all the world. Why? Because we have access to so many fast food restaurants, also because we are a I need it now society, nuke it (microwave it), eat it instantly out of a box society. We must rid ourselves of that mentality.
Do I personally eat fast food? Absolutely! Do I eat it often? Absolutely not! BUT I make it a practice to eat the foods below more than I eat the foods above and more importantly I make it a habit to PREPARE my own foods at home. I know what seasons, spices, and oil (extra virgin olive oil) I'm using to cook with etc. All of these things make a difference in your health and weight loss. I understand when you are on the go, it is hard to find healthy eating options but imagine if the only time you ate fast food was one meal 1 day a weekend when you're on the go on the weekend? Eat more foods that don't come out of box, carton, or packaged wrapper!
The best foods are foods that are fresh and RAW! Try it in your weight loss eating or drinking (juicing) something a serving of raw fruits and vegetables everyday. While drinking a V8 or taking a vitamin supplement is good, nothing beats the real thing.
Eating healthy raw foods you will find that you feel better, look better (weight and skin) and be an overall healthier you!
Water, water is important for your body and your health. If you don't want to buy bottled water, boil your water at home or get a filter system. I've been researching and learning more about alkaline water. It is suppose to keep the bodies PH levels in tact which makes it impossible for sickness/disease to live in your body. Walmart carries a brand called Eternal water, look into it, do your research.
Epiphany Essentials Weight Loss Tips:
- Love You, Get to the Root of Your Self-Esteem and Body Image Perception
- Get to the root of your eating choices and habits
- Commit to you in 2013, commit to making more healthy than unhealthy food choices
- Eat breakfast (a meal, fruit, nuts, granola, yogurt, or juice it, something!)
- Eat/drink raw fruits and vegetables daily
- Drink plenty of water
- Drink green tea and other teas ( NOT "DIET" teas)
- Give up soda and sugary drinks...(initially give it up, then slowly re-introduce)
- Have a diet high in fiber and low in fat/processed foods
- Eat raw nuts as well, walnuts, almonds (create a feeling of fullness), cashews, peanuts etc.
- Get moving, exercise, walk, run, bike, do jumping jacks, dance etc. at home (see my post from yesterday, you don't have to go to the gym to exercise) but commit to do something daily
- Work out recommendations - yoga, pilates, cardio, and weight training (find something that works for you and there are plenty of FREE workouts online)
Great on-line resources
Make it fun, keep it light, don't view diet change and weight loss as a chore but look as it as a way of life. By no means must you give up anything, consume EVERYTHING in moderation. If you sit and drink too much water at once or in a short period of time you could die from water intoxication. The point, too much of anything isn't good! Everything should be done in moderation.
For those who are committed to losing weight in 2013, I hope that your journey is a successful, all problems and issues must be attacked at the root, get to the heart of the matter, and love yourself.
Be a blessing and be blessed! Namaste! Peace! Love! Joy! Blessings! Prosperity! Favor! Health!
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Apache Blessing
Namaste ॐ
“May the sun bring you new energy by day, may the moon softly restore you by night, may the rain wash away your worries, may the breeze blow new strength into your being, may you walk gently thorugh the world and know it's beauty all the days of your life.”
― Apache Blessing
From Psychadelic Adventures on FaceBook
Who Is Tia Norfleet???
Tia Norfleet is an African-American drag racing and stock car racing driver. The daughter of NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet, she is the first African-American woman to receive a NASCAR racing license. Wikipedia
BLACK GIRLS ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Be a blessing and be blessed! Namaste, Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, Favor, Kindness, and Self-Control.
Shoppers Disappoint!!
Yesterday, I glanced past a tweet that directed to an article that shoppers only spent about 0.7% more this year than last disappointing retailers. (http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_HOLIDAY_SHOPPING?SITE=NDBIS&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT) I immediately chuckled. Retailers disappointed? Should we really care? In a sense we should the way our society is based upon our consumerism but...how can we consume based on recent news? I personally DO NOT watch the news but I am aware of different things that are going on. I keep hearing about the fiscal cliff. While I in no way can go into detail about it, it seems to bring doom, gloom, despair, and make people feel like we are on the verge of an economic crisis. This may very well be true as many other countries have declared bankrupt in the last year or so and needed bail outs.
Despite the news of the fiscal cliff, since President Obama has been in office I really haven't heard anything great about the economy. I mostly hear how he is driving our nation into debt and the many issues our nation is having. Then there's that thing called unemployment and let us not forget underemployment as well.
As I thought about Black Friday and now I think about Christmas I chuckle because the media pretty much tells us there's a financial crisis and we are headed to doom BUT we become bombarded with Christmas decorations, ads, and new gadgets before Thanksgiving arrives to get out there and shop in the spirit of Christmas.
First and foremost, the true meaning of Christmas is Christ!!!!!!
On top of that, consumers are becoming more savvy, smart, and simply wiser. Many spent more this year than last. Nevertheless, people are learning that debt is bad, positive cash flow is good, and to save more then they spend. Sure some throw caution to the wind for the holidays BUT as more become aware of the true meaning of CHRISTmas and life in general I believe that retailers may continue to be "disappointed".
Our country is built on consumerism - a social and economic order that encourages the purchase of goods and services in ever-greater amounts. (definition from wikipedia) However, when is enough, enough?
Oddly, my meditational scripture for today is Ecclesiastes 2:24 "There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink and make himself enjoy good in his labor. Even this, I have seen, is from the hand of God." Simply put enjoy yourself! Buy that new purse, those shoes you've been eyeing, take yourself to the spa for a much needed day of pampering, take that vacation, by all means enjoy the fruits of your labor after all you've earned it BUT don't work for these things.
There is a difference, DON'T charge it, shop til you drop and then work 2 and 3 jobs to try and pay off debt, while accumulating more debt and buying more things. There is nothing wrong with 2 or 3 jobs though, multiple streams of income is a must by the way!!!!!
Don't work for these things meaning, many are trying to keep up with the Joneses, they want to be able to brag or boast, or have just because someone else has. Buy and get what it is you want, like, and can afford because that is what you want and for no other reason. For those whom you are trying to impress will undoubtedly not show up to pay any of your bills.
Be wise, be a good steward over your finances, save less, spend more, and spend less than you earn!
Be blessed and be a blessing! Namaste, Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, Favor, and Self-Control :-)
Despite the news of the fiscal cliff, since President Obama has been in office I really haven't heard anything great about the economy. I mostly hear how he is driving our nation into debt and the many issues our nation is having. Then there's that thing called unemployment and let us not forget underemployment as well.
As I thought about Black Friday and now I think about Christmas I chuckle because the media pretty much tells us there's a financial crisis and we are headed to doom BUT we become bombarded with Christmas decorations, ads, and new gadgets before Thanksgiving arrives to get out there and shop in the spirit of Christmas.
First and foremost, the true meaning of Christmas is Christ!!!!!!
On top of that, consumers are becoming more savvy, smart, and simply wiser. Many spent more this year than last. Nevertheless, people are learning that debt is bad, positive cash flow is good, and to save more then they spend. Sure some throw caution to the wind for the holidays BUT as more become aware of the true meaning of CHRISTmas and life in general I believe that retailers may continue to be "disappointed".
Our country is built on consumerism - a social and economic order that encourages the purchase of goods and services in ever-greater amounts. (definition from wikipedia) However, when is enough, enough?
Oddly, my meditational scripture for today is Ecclesiastes 2:24 "There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink and make himself enjoy good in his labor. Even this, I have seen, is from the hand of God." Simply put enjoy yourself! Buy that new purse, those shoes you've been eyeing, take yourself to the spa for a much needed day of pampering, take that vacation, by all means enjoy the fruits of your labor after all you've earned it BUT don't work for these things.
There is a difference, DON'T charge it, shop til you drop and then work 2 and 3 jobs to try and pay off debt, while accumulating more debt and buying more things. There is nothing wrong with 2 or 3 jobs though, multiple streams of income is a must by the way!!!!!
Don't work for these things meaning, many are trying to keep up with the Joneses, they want to be able to brag or boast, or have just because someone else has. Buy and get what it is you want, like, and can afford because that is what you want and for no other reason. For those whom you are trying to impress will undoubtedly not show up to pay any of your bills.
Be wise, be a good steward over your finances, save less, spend more, and spend less than you earn!
Be blessed and be a blessing! Namaste, Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, Favor, and Self-Control :-)
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
My Love/Hate Relationship with Christmas
The older I get the more I have mixed feelings and emotions about Christmas especially once I learned the truth about the holiday (holy day) itself and how it came to be. Even though Christ or Yeshua was not born on December 25th, he was a model example of how to love and there is no true harm in celebrating his birth, as his life and death brought great meaning to many. The fact that we celebrate his birth on a day we know he wasn't born however bothers me but nevertheless it is what is!
Christ is one of and the main reasons for Christmas as we know it today and that is why I love the holiday. However, I could choose to celebrate him daily or whenever I choose to. Why so much importance on gift giving? Giving the latest/greatest and most expensive? Why do merchants capitalize off of this holy I mean holiday? (well I already know the answer to that). Yet, many holidays celebrated bother me because they have been polluted, distorted, and exploited.
Even those who are Christians, while they pray and celebrate the savior many still get wrapped up into gift giving, going in debt to ensure their children, family, friends, and whomever they want to buy presents for have a Merry Christmas. Why can't life, love, happiness, peace, and joy be enough for Christmas?
Yes, I have a child and yes I buy him Christmas presents, why? Because I started this tradition when he was born before I knew any better. However, I do not go all out and break the bank. I know the way you start is the way you must finish and each year more will be expected than from the last. I'm grateful my son is happy just to have presents, no matter how many gifts, I can remember him saying one year "Santa brought all these presents". At most since my son has been born I've spent $300 on Christmas and this year I will tell you I spent less than $100. Yes you read that correctly!!!! Taking my son to school a week ago or so, he told me if there weren't any presents under the tree from me to him, he was taking my gift back and getting a refund. I told him that isn't nice, that isn't what Christmas is about. I give and do for him all year round. He said he didn't care!
I want my son to understand the true meaning of Christmas and I never want him to feel sad, depressed, or any negative emotions over a man made holiday. Which leads to why I hate (well that's a strong word but you get it) Christmas. This is a time of year where many are saddened, depressed, feel lonely, despair and choose to commit suicide. This is a time where many parents cannot give their children anything for Christmas and they are filled with negative feelings about their inability and may feel inadequate, when that is NOT what the season is about!!!!!
Therefore we see toy drives and different things for the "least" fortunate. Now I 100% understand poverty and that many live in poverty BUT why do possessions dictate wealth to begin with? I read yesterday that if you have a roof over your head, clothes on your back and shoes on your feet you are more well off than 75% of the people in the world! What happened to being rich in love, spirit, joy, faith, and the things that truly matter? I've been fortunate that I have always had growing up and had the ability to give to my son since he's been born and for that I am grateful BUT I know that me spending time, giving my love and guidance is what is important and what he will never forget. Think about it, unless you received something you REALLY wanted that you can time date, what did you get for Christmas at 14, 5, 7, etc.????? Guaranteed you can't remember. Why? Because those things fade BUT I guarantee you can remember if you were loved growing up, the time you spent with your parents, guardians etc., the important things of life.
Nevertheless, many want to do things for their children, they want their children to experience the joy of opening gifts they wanted and I completely get that BUT I feel that if we truly from birth taught our children the true meaning of Christmas maybe many would be less stressed and depressed as adults.
I also think what if parents and people gave gifts that keep on giving. Like life insurance, savings accounts, stocks, bonds, books, educational toys, games, and science kits. Give gifts that give your child a leg up in life! I firmly believe if you are spending more money on gifts for your children than they have in a college fund or when you turn 21 fund there is something wrong BUT I will save that for another blog.
For the shoppers I encourage you to shop and save especially if you shop online sign up with www.upromise.com when you shop in store, online, purchase gas, airline tickets at select merchants a % of your purchase goes into a savings account for you, your child, or someone elses. Shop and save!!!
When you get a chance if you are unsure how and why we celebrate the birth of Christ, here is a good place to START your research http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas .
I leave you with an excerpt from a woman who has a great spirit and mind, we found each other on Twitter (@geeisdope "Jesus was not born in the winter... but let's say he was... and tomorrow is a celebration of his born day...How much of CHRISTmas are you dedicating to Christ? Christ is a title a man named yeshua hamashia(ch) recieved once he reached the 33rd dregree of....but anyway... a level of consciousness of the truest knowledge of love... despite of all the knowledge he had, he used it all for love...To the point, where he allowed his life to be sacrificial in a way that most people can not, and will not.He was a real person... His life is really documented outside of the bible... But even the bible is descriptiveof his birth... and there is no way he was born in the winter... but, people use the lies of the very people they speak against to validate their disbelief. Nowhere in the bible does it mandate the celebration of Christmas. In fact it was introduced by the Romans as a way to convert pagans who worshipped the sun on the winter solace... because they stole and then confused African... I mean Egyptian... theology... And what better way to make it an easy transition from worshipping the sun, to worshipping the son? The purpose of holidays is to celebrate holy things... which was the reason a pagan holiday was inverted. Christmas for example... is about giving... not receiving. If we apply CHISTmas only to CHRIST. He gave his life to people who gave him nothing."
Christ is one of and the main reasons for Christmas as we know it today and that is why I love the holiday. However, I could choose to celebrate him daily or whenever I choose to. Why so much importance on gift giving? Giving the latest/greatest and most expensive? Why do merchants capitalize off of this holy I mean holiday? (well I already know the answer to that). Yet, many holidays celebrated bother me because they have been polluted, distorted, and exploited.
Even those who are Christians, while they pray and celebrate the savior many still get wrapped up into gift giving, going in debt to ensure their children, family, friends, and whomever they want to buy presents for have a Merry Christmas. Why can't life, love, happiness, peace, and joy be enough for Christmas?
Yes, I have a child and yes I buy him Christmas presents, why? Because I started this tradition when he was born before I knew any better. However, I do not go all out and break the bank. I know the way you start is the way you must finish and each year more will be expected than from the last. I'm grateful my son is happy just to have presents, no matter how many gifts, I can remember him saying one year "Santa brought all these presents". At most since my son has been born I've spent $300 on Christmas and this year I will tell you I spent less than $100. Yes you read that correctly!!!! Taking my son to school a week ago or so, he told me if there weren't any presents under the tree from me to him, he was taking my gift back and getting a refund. I told him that isn't nice, that isn't what Christmas is about. I give and do for him all year round. He said he didn't care!
I want my son to understand the true meaning of Christmas and I never want him to feel sad, depressed, or any negative emotions over a man made holiday. Which leads to why I hate (well that's a strong word but you get it) Christmas. This is a time of year where many are saddened, depressed, feel lonely, despair and choose to commit suicide. This is a time where many parents cannot give their children anything for Christmas and they are filled with negative feelings about their inability and may feel inadequate, when that is NOT what the season is about!!!!!
Therefore we see toy drives and different things for the "least" fortunate. Now I 100% understand poverty and that many live in poverty BUT why do possessions dictate wealth to begin with? I read yesterday that if you have a roof over your head, clothes on your back and shoes on your feet you are more well off than 75% of the people in the world! What happened to being rich in love, spirit, joy, faith, and the things that truly matter? I've been fortunate that I have always had growing up and had the ability to give to my son since he's been born and for that I am grateful BUT I know that me spending time, giving my love and guidance is what is important and what he will never forget. Think about it, unless you received something you REALLY wanted that you can time date, what did you get for Christmas at 14, 5, 7, etc.????? Guaranteed you can't remember. Why? Because those things fade BUT I guarantee you can remember if you were loved growing up, the time you spent with your parents, guardians etc., the important things of life.
Nevertheless, many want to do things for their children, they want their children to experience the joy of opening gifts they wanted and I completely get that BUT I feel that if we truly from birth taught our children the true meaning of Christmas maybe many would be less stressed and depressed as adults.
I also think what if parents and people gave gifts that keep on giving. Like life insurance, savings accounts, stocks, bonds, books, educational toys, games, and science kits. Give gifts that give your child a leg up in life! I firmly believe if you are spending more money on gifts for your children than they have in a college fund or when you turn 21 fund there is something wrong BUT I will save that for another blog.
For the shoppers I encourage you to shop and save especially if you shop online sign up with www.upromise.com when you shop in store, online, purchase gas, airline tickets at select merchants a % of your purchase goes into a savings account for you, your child, or someone elses. Shop and save!!!
When you get a chance if you are unsure how and why we celebrate the birth of Christ, here is a good place to START your research http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas .
I leave you with an excerpt from a woman who has a great spirit and mind, we found each other on Twitter (@geeisdope "Jesus was not born in the winter... but let's say he was... and tomorrow is a celebration of his born day...How much of CHRISTmas are you dedicating to Christ? Christ is a title a man named yeshua hamashia(ch) recieved once he reached the 33rd dregree of....but anyway... a level of consciousness of the truest knowledge of love... despite of all the knowledge he had, he used it all for love...To the point, where he allowed his life to be sacrificial in a way that most people can not, and will not.He was a real person... His life is really documented outside of the bible... But even the bible is descriptiveof his birth... and there is no way he was born in the winter... but, people use the lies of the very people they speak against to validate their disbelief. Nowhere in the bible does it mandate the celebration of Christmas. In fact it was introduced by the Romans as a way to convert pagans who worshipped the sun on the winter solace... because they stole and then confused African... I mean Egyptian... theology... And what better way to make it an easy transition from worshipping the sun, to worshipping the son? The purpose of holidays is to celebrate holy things... which was the reason a pagan holiday was inverted. Christmas for example... is about giving... not receiving. If we apply CHISTmas only to CHRIST. He gave his life to people who gave him nothing."
Scripture says to study to show yourself approved, scripture also says that the truth shall set you free. Excuse me in advance for saying that, knowing the bible backwards and forewords is great BUT one must also get out there and study other text, historical backgrounds etc. to get a better understanding of the Bible and what things meant for the time it was written, why certain things were written the way they were etc. IN ORDER to truly completely understand the WORD. One can also pray, meditate and ask for REVELATION knowledge. BUT even if one thinks they UNDERSTAND and KNOW EVERYTHING, if they aren't living and operating in love their knowledge is somewhat in vain. Knowledge is important as people perish for lack there of.....My point, do you celebrate Christmas and other holidays because of tradition or because you have studied and understand why each holiday is celebrated?
Finally I love Christmas because it is a time of joy, happiness, family, friends, giving, receiving and a day of rest and relaxation from work. I "hate" Christmas because it is exploited, misused, and people suffer, kill themselves, and fall into deep depressions during this time unnecessarily because as a people who celebrate, the majority of us have lost the true meaning of this holy day.
Be blessed and be a blessing, peace, love, joy, happiness and love to all!
Monday, December 24, 2012
RUMI QUOTE (FROM FACEBOOK)
“Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.”
~Rumi
~Rumi
BEGIN YOUR NYE RESOLUTIONS TODAY
Let me start by saying starting in 2012 I personally decided not make any NY resolutions because let's be real, most people do not stick to them through out the year. At the beginning of the year people are excited, fired up, focused and about 2 weeks into the new year they are back to their old selves and their old habits. Now what I did do in 2012 is set some simple goals, my goal to be happy and closer to my Ceator and I can say without a shadow of a doubt I achieved my goal in 2012!
Now I say begin your new years resolution today because it takes 7 days to create a new habit. So today is the best day to begin so by January 1st, you are already in the habit of doing that new thing whatever it is.
Most people's new years resolution are as follows:
Now as for the work out, save yourself some money and invest in some free weights, a stability ball, workout mat, and a DVD. You can save even more money by waking up in the AM stretching, doing sit-ups, crunches, jumping jacks, push ups, squats, etc. Create your own work out regimen at home. There are a lot of exercises that can be done using your own body weight that will provide the desired results but again the best day to begin is TODAY!
So whatever your resolutions may be, begin them as soon as possible. Don't wait until January 1, 2013 as you are already procrastinating. I have also read not to share your resolutions with others, as those who do are less likely to actually follow them through. Some things are best kept to yourself anyway, no need to broadcast what you are going to do, just do it and those who truly know you will notice the changes.
I can't wait to see the growth and success of many that I know at the end of 2013.
Be blessed and be a blessing, Life is Good, All is Well, Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, and Favor on to you...
Now I say begin your new years resolution today because it takes 7 days to create a new habit. So today is the best day to begin so by January 1st, you are already in the habit of doing that new thing whatever it is.
Most people's new years resolution are as follows:
- Lose weight
- Save Money
- Spend more time with family
- Go back to school
- Career focused
- Network more
- Go to church
- Spend more time with the Most High.....etc.
- eat smaller portion sizes
- have fruit only for breakfast the day of
- drink plenty of water
- say no to soda
- sure drink the liquor and be merry :-)
- have a light lunch, eat a salad and be sparring with the salad dressing
Now as for the work out, save yourself some money and invest in some free weights, a stability ball, workout mat, and a DVD. You can save even more money by waking up in the AM stretching, doing sit-ups, crunches, jumping jacks, push ups, squats, etc. Create your own work out regimen at home. There are a lot of exercises that can be done using your own body weight that will provide the desired results but again the best day to begin is TODAY!
So whatever your resolutions may be, begin them as soon as possible. Don't wait until January 1, 2013 as you are already procrastinating. I have also read not to share your resolutions with others, as those who do are less likely to actually follow them through. Some things are best kept to yourself anyway, no need to broadcast what you are going to do, just do it and those who truly know you will notice the changes.
I can't wait to see the growth and success of many that I know at the end of 2013.
Be blessed and be a blessing, Life is Good, All is Well, Peace, Love, Joy, Happiness, and Favor on to you...
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Holistic Approach to the US Violence Crisis? Teach Social and Other Skills in School!
Violence unfortunately is a CRISIS in the US society. Many a days I wish I never introduced my child to TV. I think about the nights I watched Law & Order and other shows around him, his love for the WWE, and even his exposure to some of the violent video games (not in my home). Let alone what is seen on the daily news (I rarely watch). Violence is everywhere in our society.
Children nowadays are faced with a lot of issues, drugs in their home or families, violent tragedies, hunger, poverty etc. How can we as a society help these children develop into productive members of society? I think about Columbine, those boys chose to shoot up their classmates because they were being bullied or outcast for being different.
My solution, incorporate coping mechanisms, anger and stress management, conflict resolution, and how to deal with bullying/teasing and how not to be a bully. After all of the violence and shootings in schools amongst students why haven't these things be incorporated? After Columbine, schools implemented a zero tolerance policy. While watching Washington Watch I heard of 6 year olds being hand cuffed and taken out of school for throwing a tantrum????? How is the world does that solve the problem.
As I and many know prison is not a place of rehabilitation. Of course the 6 year old didn't go to prison but imagine the psyhcological damage that was potentially caused to the 6 year after being handcuffed?
What do school counselors do? What is there purpose? I heard that mental health is hard to obtain in black and brown communities. I also heard that many parents aren't receptive to mental health care. I am here to admit my son is receiving counseling services. He has taken a disruptive behavior and social skills group therapy sessions. He also receives one on one services. Why? Because as a mother I am willing to do whatever it takes to help my child. All parents may not be the same but then I wonder what if these were courses taught every year in school? All students would receive the same training and no student would feel out of place.
The social skills group teaches how to deal with being teased, how to share, take turns, how to stop and think before reacting, amongst other things. What if these courses were incorporated into the curriculum and students took these classes every year from 1st to 12th grade? I'm not saying that the problems of violence would be solved. I am saying that children would learn how to better deal with situations and then it would be there personal choice how to react in situations.
As in life it is not about what happens to us but our reactions. We have to learn that we have choices and we control and our in control of ourselves only.
So yes, gun control measures and bans on certain weapons and mental health access are needed BUT we can take it a step further and incorporate social skills and other classes so children know how to cope and deal with the many issues they are facing in their lives.
Your thoughts?????
Children nowadays are faced with a lot of issues, drugs in their home or families, violent tragedies, hunger, poverty etc. How can we as a society help these children develop into productive members of society? I think about Columbine, those boys chose to shoot up their classmates because they were being bullied or outcast for being different.
My solution, incorporate coping mechanisms, anger and stress management, conflict resolution, and how to deal with bullying/teasing and how not to be a bully. After all of the violence and shootings in schools amongst students why haven't these things be incorporated? After Columbine, schools implemented a zero tolerance policy. While watching Washington Watch I heard of 6 year olds being hand cuffed and taken out of school for throwing a tantrum????? How is the world does that solve the problem.
As I and many know prison is not a place of rehabilitation. Of course the 6 year old didn't go to prison but imagine the psyhcological damage that was potentially caused to the 6 year after being handcuffed?
What do school counselors do? What is there purpose? I heard that mental health is hard to obtain in black and brown communities. I also heard that many parents aren't receptive to mental health care. I am here to admit my son is receiving counseling services. He has taken a disruptive behavior and social skills group therapy sessions. He also receives one on one services. Why? Because as a mother I am willing to do whatever it takes to help my child. All parents may not be the same but then I wonder what if these were courses taught every year in school? All students would receive the same training and no student would feel out of place.
The social skills group teaches how to deal with being teased, how to share, take turns, how to stop and think before reacting, amongst other things. What if these courses were incorporated into the curriculum and students took these classes every year from 1st to 12th grade? I'm not saying that the problems of violence would be solved. I am saying that children would learn how to better deal with situations and then it would be there personal choice how to react in situations.
As in life it is not about what happens to us but our reactions. We have to learn that we have choices and we control and our in control of ourselves only.
So yes, gun control measures and bans on certain weapons and mental health access are needed BUT we can take it a step further and incorporate social skills and other classes so children know how to cope and deal with the many issues they are facing in their lives.
Your thoughts?????
Do you love the Newton shooter?
This morning while watching Watching Watch with Roland Martin, I began a Twitter rant which inspired these blogs today. While discussing the Newton shooting and the death of 26 innocent people, God came up. The discussion was about those who said, because God has been removed from schools issues like these happen. Roland Martin made a great point, Christian parents need to teach their children how to be Christians at school. I will take it one step further and say that Christians need to learn how to be Christians at home, and just be Christians PERIOD.
The Greatest Commandment Jesus left us with in the Bible was to LOVE. I ask how many people Christians, religious, spiritual, whatever their faith actually practice, live, and breathe LOVE?
Granted it is not an easy task but it is also something that is not widely taught in churches or Christian homes, at least not from my point of view. What do I mean by this?
When Jesus was on the cross, he said "Lord forgive them for they know not what they do." Jesus said that about his crucifiers, his killers, those who beat him, flogged him, crowned him with thorns, he asked his Father, the MOST HIGH to forgive them. How many Christian folks have they type of love and compassion for those who do them wrong, their family, friends, or anyone else?
Imagine a world where all people simply loved themselves and loved others and did unto others as they would have them to do unto themselves...
I think about the Tweets and FB posts where people who I know consider themselves Christians and are regular church goers, spoke negatively of the shooter, called him all sorts of names, and were speaking completely out of hatred and other negative emotions. That in and of itself does not help the world to vibrate in love and continues to add to the spread of violence, despair etc. in the world.
How many people thought to themselves, what did the shooter go through growing up, how did he grow up, what thoughts must have been in his head that would cause him to kill his own mother and other innocent people yet alone 5 year old children? How many people took the time to pray for him and spread compassion and love to all of those who commit violent and criminal acts?
That is not to say excuse their behavior or overlook it, it is to say, love the sinner but hate the sin. I mean do people read or have they read the same Holy Bible that I have? Yet, I see so many people hate the sinner.
The world needs love, I think about the words to that song and it is so very true. "What the world needs now, is love sweet love....its the only thing that there's just to little of..." Before you say, NO the world needs God. I am here to share with you, God is LOVE, so the 2 are one in the same for those who believe. However, there are some who don't believe in God and don't agree but we can all agree on LOVE. We have all, I hope experienced love in some kind of way in our lives.
Yes we will get upset, angry, pissed off etc. However, those feelings and emotions should not linger past a day. We control our thoughts and our feelings. I am a mother, I couldn't imagine losing my son to senseless violence and I cannot say how I would think, act, or feel after the fact. For I wouldn't know until I were ever placed in that situation, and I pray, speak and believe I never will! Think God lost his only son, his innocent son to violence. Yet, He is a forgiving, compassionate, loving God that gives us new grace and mercy daily.
So, as a spiritual being first and a human being second. My personal mission is to walk, speak, talk, think, and feel in LOVE EVERYDAY.
LOVE, the WORLD NEEDS LOVE. We are to LOVE ALL. We cannot pick and choose whom we love and when we love. Now, we don't have to like them or their actions BUT we must always LOVE! So yes, acknowledgement of a Higher Power is great, prayer is great, going to church and other religious meetings are great but what use is it if we don't walk in LOVE daily?
The Greatest Commandment Jesus left us with in the Bible was to LOVE. I ask how many people Christians, religious, spiritual, whatever their faith actually practice, live, and breathe LOVE?
Granted it is not an easy task but it is also something that is not widely taught in churches or Christian homes, at least not from my point of view. What do I mean by this?
When Jesus was on the cross, he said "Lord forgive them for they know not what they do." Jesus said that about his crucifiers, his killers, those who beat him, flogged him, crowned him with thorns, he asked his Father, the MOST HIGH to forgive them. How many Christian folks have they type of love and compassion for those who do them wrong, their family, friends, or anyone else?
Imagine a world where all people simply loved themselves and loved others and did unto others as they would have them to do unto themselves...
I think about the Tweets and FB posts where people who I know consider themselves Christians and are regular church goers, spoke negatively of the shooter, called him all sorts of names, and were speaking completely out of hatred and other negative emotions. That in and of itself does not help the world to vibrate in love and continues to add to the spread of violence, despair etc. in the world.
How many people thought to themselves, what did the shooter go through growing up, how did he grow up, what thoughts must have been in his head that would cause him to kill his own mother and other innocent people yet alone 5 year old children? How many people took the time to pray for him and spread compassion and love to all of those who commit violent and criminal acts?
That is not to say excuse their behavior or overlook it, it is to say, love the sinner but hate the sin. I mean do people read or have they read the same Holy Bible that I have? Yet, I see so many people hate the sinner.
The world needs love, I think about the words to that song and it is so very true. "What the world needs now, is love sweet love....its the only thing that there's just to little of..." Before you say, NO the world needs God. I am here to share with you, God is LOVE, so the 2 are one in the same for those who believe. However, there are some who don't believe in God and don't agree but we can all agree on LOVE. We have all, I hope experienced love in some kind of way in our lives.
Yes we will get upset, angry, pissed off etc. However, those feelings and emotions should not linger past a day. We control our thoughts and our feelings. I am a mother, I couldn't imagine losing my son to senseless violence and I cannot say how I would think, act, or feel after the fact. For I wouldn't know until I were ever placed in that situation, and I pray, speak and believe I never will! Think God lost his only son, his innocent son to violence. Yet, He is a forgiving, compassionate, loving God that gives us new grace and mercy daily.
So, as a spiritual being first and a human being second. My personal mission is to walk, speak, talk, think, and feel in LOVE EVERYDAY.
LOVE, the WORLD NEEDS LOVE. We are to LOVE ALL. We cannot pick and choose whom we love and when we love. Now, we don't have to like them or their actions BUT we must always LOVE! So yes, acknowledgement of a Higher Power is great, prayer is great, going to church and other religious meetings are great but what use is it if we don't walk in LOVE daily?
Saturday, December 15, 2012
TRAGEDY, GOD, POLITICS, AND GUN CONTROL
Yesterday I learned of 2 terrible tragedies involving children and innocent people. In China, a man went into a school and stabbed 22 children. Here in the United States, a man killed his mother at home, then drove 1 hour to the school where she worked, and shot and killed I believe 20 children in her kindergarten classroom.
Immediately a few things happened. People sent up prayers and asked God to come and save/help/heal the world. Political mumbo jumbo was brought into play and the President was attacked. The issue of gun control being needed in the United States came up as well.
For starters, please read this carefully, GOD USES PEOPLE TO SAVE/HEAL/HELP the world, so while you are waiting on Him, he is waiting on you to take action. In the bible, David slayed Goliath, Joshua won the battle at Jericho, and Moses freed the Israelites....yes absolutely with the help, grace, and anointing of God BUT, BUT, BUT...God did not strike David down, God did not fight the battle in Jericho, and it took Moses to raise his staff (do something) to part the Red Sea. Prayer proceeds praise which proceeds action BUT there must be action on the part of God fearing people that are filled with love and compassion for something to be done. God nor Jesus is going to fall out of the sky or magically appear to heal the world. That is what we are here for!!!!
Politics, must everything be about politics? Can anything simply be about people, humanity, compassion and love? One radio commentator stated that the shooter killed because of depression due to the economic crisis and the fiscal cliff. Really? If that is the case many of our inner city youth commit crime due to depression as they are born into poverty, face it everyday, and there has been a fiscal cliff going on in their lives since their grand parents were born. Why bring that up at a time like this? How does that help the situation? Of course, during a tragedy is also the perfect time to criticize the President, Mayor Bloomberg suggested President Obama needed to introduce a bill on gun control which brings me to my final point.
After all the talk about gun control, and the debate being brought back up it was learned that ALL the guns belonged to the boys mom. How would gun control have helped in this situation? I currently reside in what has been affectionately coined the murder capital of the USA, Chicago. I can guarantee that the majority of guns used to killed are obtained illegally. I can also guarantee that many of the guns on the street were placed there by the government themselves. How can I guarantee that? The same way our US government sends guns to Mexico so cartels can fight and therefore send drugs to the US, the same is true for here.
Unfortunately, violence and crime are big BUSINESS and PROFIT here in the US. What does that mean? Crime does pay, crime pays judges, lawyers, parole officers, prison wardens, other prison staff, correctional officers, police officers etc. Imagine a city like Chicago with "low crime" some folks would be out of work. Now of course the low crime would be awesome but again its about PROFIT, if you don't believe me EVERYTHING the US and many other developed countries do is solely about PROFIT and POWER it is RARELY EVER about the PEOPLE. There is a great documentary called cocaine cowboys, before cocaine and drug wars there was 1 police car on beat for the entire city of Miami...
PRAYER, debates, and wearing colors to come together in solidarity is great BUT where is the ACTION? Where are the "people of God"? What can truly be done to help Chicago, other cities, and ensure things like this are few and far between as opposed to becoming the common norm?
Finally, please read this clearly and if you don't understand research it, the last thing anyone should be doing is walking around with a spirit of fear or despair. That creates low vibrations, low vibrations cause destruction, chaos, and mayhem here on earth. We need to stay in love, joy, peace, calmness, and happiness in all things and vibrate on a higher level to help heal the land.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
GOOD VIBRATIONS 12-12-12
"Some say that today, 12-12-12, begins the activation or the true awakening of our heart center(s). In many traditions the heart is considered a doorway to higher vibration, self-actualization and higher consciousness as well. Plan today to surround yourself with ONLY supportive and positive thoughts, messages, people, places and things tomorrow. Also plan to CONSCIOUSLY stay connected to your heart center - - even if only in your imagination. And, oh yeah, don't forget to think about a dearly held dream or desire too. We'll be working those energies as well! From my heart to yours." Ellen Whitehurst
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
FEAR: UNHAPPINESS VS. UNCERTAINTY
So, I'm re-reading the 4 Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris. I began reading it last year put stopped as it has challenges one must complete and well, I wasn't up for the challenge.
Now, as I have been meditating, doing yoga, focusing my energy on love and attempting to open up my chakras and raise my vibrations, I find myself once again reading this book. Why, well for starters I would love to know how to work 4 hours/week and be able to live my life as if I were working 40 hours/week. I do not seek wealth per se but I do seek and choose happiness. No amount of money or lack of can generate happiness.
Well in reading the book something stuck out to me. People would rather be unhappy than face uncertainty. What does this mean? People will stay in jobs they hate, in an unhealthy relationship or living environment simply because they are used to it although it is not ideal to say the least. So, while deciding to stay in whatever the situation may be WE yes WE rationalize...Well, this situation beats this or that, what will happen if I just quit my job, how will me and my children eat. Now these are very viable questions and I do not recommend one quitting their job without a plan in place but I do suggest if you are unhappy with any situation you are currently in, making a valid attempt to change it. This valid attempt does not include complaining, go ahead and pray about it but action must also be taken on your part!
FEAR, many of us have them BUT let me tell you a SECRET, FEAR is a learned behavior! You are not born with fear, fear is developed. I was on a field trip with my son and there were carnival rides. One little girl in my group refused to ride on most of the rides, she kept telling me she was afraid. My son and his other classmates rode the Tilt a Whirl 3 times, the little girl on the side with me said I don't know why they like that ride, why are they riding it so much. Now, had she rode the ride and then decided she didn't like it I could understand BUT how could she talk down on their like for something? Easy, she was RATIONALIZING and making herself feel better. Again, WE all do this at some point in time in our lives. Why? To make ourselves feel better and to give validation to how or what we are feeling at the time.
So the book touched on fear and suggested doing something you fear daily. I will share a couple of my fears. I cannot swim, don't like my head under the water, nor water in my eyes and can't imagine jumping in the deep end. However, come the spring of 2013 I will be enrolling myself in swimming lessons. Why? Because I need to face my fear and more importantly I love vacationing on beaches and I want to be able to swim in the ocean, scuba dive, snorkel etc. There are things on my bucket list that outweigh my fear and as the saying goes, there is nothing to Fear but FEAR itself!!!! My other fear is speaking with strangers. I love helping others make money and being the behind the scenes girl BUT I don't like forging relationships with strangers. Well, I decided to begin facing that fear and will continue to do so this week as well. I have a couple of networking events to attend and the plan is to not sit in a corner on my smart phone or around people I know but to work the crowd and meet at least 3 people at each event!
Why are these things important to me? Because these fears have been holding me back from living my life to the fullest. I will take a bet that you also have fears that have been holding you back as well. Well the question asked in the book is what is the worst that could happen? Face the worst case scenario, create and live in the worst case scenario and determine IF it truly happen would you be able to survive.
However, the bigger question to ponder is HOW will you HAVE the life that you DESIRE IF you DON'T face your FEARS and truly pursue your DREAMS? Absolutely it is ok to be content with your life as is, as happiness is a choice. The question is asking if you wake up 5 years from now in the same spot doing the same thing will you be happy, will your potential have been realized, and will you have shared your gifts, passion, and purpose to the world? If you can confidently say yes, great. If you can't, we have work to do and there is no time like the present.
There is still time to end 2012 on the right foot and create the momentum needed to jump start 2013, kick it in the butt, and leave your fears behind!
If you are up for the challenge let me know. We can talk/discuss/motivate/encourage one another. I'm game for that as well.
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