Month: January 2023

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Text or call, how do you communicate?

Should I text or call? It can be hard to decide these days with so many technological choices we have. Smartphones are an everyday staple. Features on cell phones give us many options of communicating. You know that saying, “there’s an app for that”. Well, it is true. With so many different platforms and ways to reach people, it can sometimes be a hard decision about how to relay a message.

A text is quick and convenient, but not always appropriate for what you want to say. Texts are very impersonal and may seem like the better way to send a message that you do not want to deliver in person. Just think about how you would want to receive a piece of news. Depending on what you want to say, a text may be totally fine. However, if it is life-changing, personal or sensitive in some other way, a phone call is necessary.

The choice to text or call is governed by the age group of people using technology these days. A large number of older people prefer to communicate by phone. They don’t have time to try to figure out the texting feature. Then again, there are some pretty savvy seniors that can keep up with the best of texters. The younger generation mostly uses text. To the point that they text people who are in same room with them.

Calling allows the other person to hear your voice and also note the tone of the message you are giving. With a text, you don’t know the tone at all and can easily misunderstand. Emoji’s can help to clarify your tone in a text but those are ambiguous at times and not everyone uses them the same way.

Texting

Texting a friend
Image by Mahbub Hasan from Pixabay

Advantages to texting include having a written record of conversations, should you need it later. Very quick and convenient, can be done from anywhere. You can reach multiple people in group chat and not have to dial everyone individually. With a text, you have time to think about your answer and do not have to reply immediately. Texting allows you to communicate with someone privately without disturbing others around you. They will not hear you talking; although they may hear the clicking while the text is being sent. Downsides are that you can text something sensitive to the wrong person. And guess what; you cannot take it back. Once you hit the send button, it’s gone into the universe. Another example is that you might be joking about something, but the receiver takes it as serious. This results in causing confusion and/or misunderstanding.

Calling

Calling with good news
Image by Mahbub Hasan from Pixabay

Advantages of making a call is that you can hear the inflection in the voice of all parties on the call. This allows you to gauge whether the person is joking or being serious. There is no confusion here. You get to say more on the phone as opposed to trying to send a long message by text. It makes it easier and clearer when talking to someone, especially if you have follow-up questions. Disadvantages to calling are that if the person you are calling does not answer right away you have to leave a message, hoping they get back to you. Also, calling means having to rely on memory. An example is when you may have told someone a certain detail, only for them to forget it later. They have no written transcript or text to refer back to. Phone calls also put people on the spot. With voice calls, you have no time to think about a response since the conversation is in real time.

Situations

  • You are at home cooking and realize you need milk. Do you call or text your partner to pick up the milk on the way home?
  • Your date was being a real jerk last night. Do you text him/her to let them know about themselves or do you call?
  • The company is downsizing, and you have to lay someone off. Do you send a text or call?
  • After a blind date you know it will not work out. Do you text or call?
  • The neighbor’s son/daughter was in a part of town, you know they should not be. Do you call their parents or text them to voice your concern?
  • While out shopping, you spot something that you think your best friend will love! Do you text or call?

I think the way to communicate something depends on a few factors. It depends on the severity of the news, the person who will receive it and also the person delivering the message. Some things can be either a text or call, but you can gauge the situation and decide which method is best.

Text or call, how do you communicate?

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Interjection

Image credit Cottonbro studios at Pexels

Interjection

Excuse me, may I interject
Let me put things into retrospect
I am a human, animate
Between two sculptures, laminate

Laminate, sculptures void of life
Stone-faced, emotionless
Let me inject some feelings
Sadness, indifference, or joy will suffice  

Sadness has its place of reflection
The level of sadness depends on the inflection
Inflection in the voice of the owner
The owner who claims it

Indifference can go either way
You either care or you don't
Feelings have a way to sway
Even the most stone-faced and emotionless

Joy is what turns it all around
What makes a smile out of a frown
Let your joy astound
Inject joy and peace will abound

--O'Nika McGill--

Written in response to Sadje’s prompt, #168 WDYS

Interjection was first published on Inspirebyonika.com on Jan 15, 2023

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

What Activities Do You Like to Do Alone?

Most of the time, activities are more fun when we do them with someone else. It can take an outing from a 4-5 experience up to a 7-8 on the scale of enjoyable. On the other hand, there are some things better left to be done alone. Like getting a haircut, an interview or going to the dentist. Let’s look at what activities you like to do alone.

Shopping

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

Shopping, for example, is something that we like to do. When I say we, I mean women. We like to have someone with us to give their honest opinion on how an outfit looks, or someone to help us pick something out for that special occasion. Shopping can be an all day excursion. When it’s time for a break, stop for lunch and then continue.

For those who take a more practical or organized approach to shopping, they want to be alone. They know what stores they are going to and what they need. It makes for an easy in and out shopping experience. People who do this are not interested in browsing the store or lollygagging. Plus, they don’t want to waste time going store to store spending more money.

Church or religious services

Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay

Some people make this a family affair. Which means that everyone in the house is going. Whether you want to go or not doesn’t matter, so don’t make a fuss. This can also be seen as a solo outing to go to your house of worship, to receive your blessings and to be a blessing to others. You may be going to ask for forgiveness for something personal and would like to be there alone with your thoughts. Also, some prefer to pray by themselves and enjoy the service in solitude.

Movies

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

For those people who still have theaters open, movies usually are a group or couple outing. You can laugh out loud or whisper to your friends or date about the movie. Afterwards, you can have a discussion about how you liked the film. Some people may not want to be talked to while the movie is playing. They zone out and want to focus on what the movie is about. They only want to enjoy their snack and take in the cinematic experience. Plus, you know those who can’t stop talking throughout and you miss key points of the movie.

Bar/Clubbing

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Going to get a drink or two is fun when you go with someone. Also, this is when a designated driver is needed. For those who like to enjoy spirits, beer, wine it’s nice to have a friend or significant other with you to talk and laugh with. Also, to watch your back if you have one too many. You know who you are 🙂

Share stories, people watch, drink, dance and listen to music at the club. Whatever you do while at the bar or club. When you want to get on the dance floor it takes the edge off to dance with your friends and not alone.

We do have those who go clubbing or to a bar to meet people. In this case, I would say they don’t want any extra weight hanging around. They would prefer to go alone and do what they do.

Eating Out

Image by werner moser from Pixabay

Going out to eat at a restaurant is usually spent together with someone. The next time you go to a restaurant look around. You will notice that most tables have at least two or more people per table. Singles also go out to eat but you don’t see this as often as groups. It can feel awkward or lonely when you are at a restaurant full of people, and you are there solo. To each their own.

Exercise

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

Exercising can be either a group or solo activity. Some people prefer to buddy up with someone else to help keep them accountable. It also makes keeping in shape more fun when there is someone else to do the work with you. Other people prefer to work-out alone. They have no problem keeping up with their physical activity. What is your exercise style?

What activities do you like to do alone?

wHAT ACTIVITIES DO YOU LIKE TO DO ALONE?

Tell us about the activities you prefer to do alone. There is nothing wrong with going solo and just doing your thing, alone. Sometimes we do our best work while being alone.

Categories
Topic

Did you say, Gentrification?

Did you say, gentrification?

Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

What does gentrification mean? It is the process whereby the character of a poor urban area is changed by wealthier people moving in, improving housing, and attracting new businesses, typically displacing current inhabitants in the process.

Say What?!

Gentrification is a fancy word that means, forcing people out of their homes in one area and replacing that housing with more expensive ones Usually, the people being forced out cannot afford to live in the newly built homes. They are faced with difficult decisions of where to live. Some of them have no family nearby that they can rely on for support. Sadly, the families may have to move into a local hotel or shelter. Homelessness is the result for some of the people being forced out.

Gentrification is not an ugly word for the investors and builders who are buying these properties. They have nothing to lose, right? They have the financial resources to make their dream a reality. Most don’t think about or care what happens to the people who have been displaced. It’s about the mighty dollar.

While it is true that some areas need a face-lift or need to be revitalized. It seems like there is a better way to make the transition a little easier for those having to move. In many cases, tenants are not given a lot of time to get themselves situated before being asked to leave.

Image by Nina Garman from Pixabay

Suggestions

  • Provide the residents with resources for alternate living options and/or programs to help with affordable housing. Not having internet or even a phone to make calls or search online for another place to live makes it hard for some residents.
  • Help in a monetary way. Give each household some kind of voucher to use toward a deposit on another home.
  • To help offset the cost of moving, offer a week or so, at a minimal fee or no charge at a local hotel.
  • Offer storage space at a discounted price, until residents have a chance to secure new housing.
Image by David Mark from Pixabay

Closing

According to a 2019 National Community Reinvestment Coalition report, the top 5 cities affected between the years 2000-2013 were Washington, D.C., San Diego, California, NYC, New York, Albuquerque, New Mexico and Atlanta, Georgia. The percentages of places being gentrified ranged from 22-40%

As you can see this is happening all over the U.S. East coast, West coast and neighborhoods in between. Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, is also seeing this trend. With the benefit of tax breaks for investors, it makes for a very easy and appealing business decision.

Did you say, gentrification? What do you make of this situation?

Categories
Info Self Awareness Topic Words of Wisdom

January O Enero, New Beginning

New Year’s Day

January 1

Image by Alexandra_Koch from Pixabay

January O Enero, New Beginning. Happy New Year! It’s 2023 and time for a new beginning. What do you resolve for the new year? This is the chance for new goals, new wishes and a time to reflect. Reflect on the year gone by and how you want to spend this next year. Pledge to yourself to add a new skill and/or hobby, pledge to make your health a priority. Pledge to be a little nicer to others as you are to yourself. Think about what you can change to make this year better than the last.

Women Rock! Day

January 3

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels

Women Rock! Day brings to mind, Tina Turner, Pat Benatar, and Aretha Franklin. Women have blazed a trail into the male dominated industry of Rock N’ Roll. Aretha set the stage for being the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Other women to join the ranks of the Queen of Soul, Aretha, include Stevie Nicks, Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, Gladys Knight, Etta James, Debbie Harry, Madonna and a host of others. A notable performer is Pat Benatar who came on the scene in the late 70s with her debut album, “In the Heat of the Night”. Tina Turner, Queen of Rock N’ Roll, has been in the music industry for about 40-50 years. These women, among others came in and made their stamp on music for women performers today.

World Braille Day

January 4

Image by OpenIcons from Pixabay

Braille is a form of writing for the visually impaired or blind. This was created by Louis Braille who himself became blind, at 10 years of age, due to a self-inflicted accident. The Braille system uses touch and a six-dot formation. The creation of braille is invaluable to those who cannot see. It has allowed the visually impaired the ability to communicate and read like those who still have sight. Since 2018 the United Nations General Assembly declared this a national holiday. On World Braille Day help raise awareness. Learn Braille so that you can help people who may not know how to read it. Braille helps to make people who have lost their sight feel inclusive. Even though individuals may not be able to see, they have other senses to use in order to go about their daily lives. January is also Braille Literacy Month.

Did you know? You can buy toys in Braille. Also, Math and Science has a form of Braille called the Nemeth Code.

Three Kings Day

January 6

Image by Pablo Elices from Pixabay

Epiphany, Three Kings Day, Día de Los Reyes is January 6th. It marks the last day of the extended Christmas holiday in many Latin American countries. On this day, it is said that the 3 wise men gave gifts to Baby Jesus. Of course, good food is involved for this occasion. Some families enjoy a meal outdoors. More like a feast which includes dishes of beans with rice, slow roasted meat, plantains, soups and other traditional Latin cuisine. Also, king cake is a part of this celebration. This is a ring-shaped cake with a hidden doll baked inside. The doll symbolizes Baby Jesus. Should you be the one to get the doll inside it means that you have to bring the next king cake. Also, it signifies that you will have prosperity and luck.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

January 16

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

Today we observe the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr who was born on January 15, 1929. He was a non-violent, civil rights leader.

Why is he celebrated?

  • He had a hand in desegregation. Gone are the days of separate water fountains, bathrooms and seating on public transportation among Black and White people.
  • Dr. King fought to eradicate racism. He fought for civil and economic rights of people.
  • MLK was the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
  • The voting rights act of 1965 is to his credit. Had he not persisted and held the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Selma, Alabama, this law might not have been passed.

As you can see, he is responsible for bringing people together and effecting change for the better. And not just Black people, but all people.

Did you know?

Samuel L. Gravely (1922-2004) was the first African American to command a United States Navy Warship. He also joined the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity., the first fraternity for African Americans. He accomplished a lot of first achievements in the military for African Americans.

National Puzzle Day

January 29

Image by Gordon Johnson from Pixabay

National Puzzle Day is a way to exercise your brain. Whether you like Jigsaw puzzles, crosswords or Jenga it does not matter, they all provide benefits for the brain. Doing puzzles are stress relievers and fun. You can do a jigsaw puzzle by yourself or with friends and family. You can start off with a small jigsaw and work your way up to 500-1000 pieces. Enjoy yourself, these are not just for kids but there are plenty of adult puzzles out there.

National Stalking Awareness Month

Photo by Jaclyn Moy on Unsplash

Stalking– the act or crime of willfully and repeatedly following or harassing another person in circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to fear injury or death especially because of express or implied threats.

In January we bring attention to this important topic. Stalking is a crime in all 50 states and Washington D.C. This is not limited to physical stalking but cyberstalking as well. Women are stalked almost 3 times more than men. In 2011, former President Barack Obama made the first proclamation for stalking awareness. If you feel that you are being stalked and are in immediate danger, call 911. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. Let your family/friends know if you feel like you are being followed, receiving threats, getting unwanted attention. Do not engage with a stalker. If you can, gather evidence. We all have the right to feel safe at work, home or anywhere we go. Spread awareness and be safe.