I can only read so much
Of this BS and such and such
Who in their right mind
This info is so maligned
Where are the hopeful stories
Of animal rescues and watching lories
Of good-will and cheer
Of not crime and fear
Stories about curing cancer
Slashing grocery prices like a lancer
Restoring faith in the system
Less about being a robbery victim
Thieves need to get a job
Stop stealing and being a slob
People work hard for their money
This is not the land of milk and honey
What about affordable housing and gas
Less homelessness, are these things of the past
Where are the stories to make you smile
Laugh inside and not bring up the bile
Bile that makes you want to gag
Reading news about this mixed bag
Report on something better
About successes and the go-getters
Maybe then I can read this thing
See a story that makes me want to sing
And not want to set the pages ablaze
Watching the ashes blow away in a haze
Written in response to Sadje's prompt, what to you see #174
What does it mean to be humble? What do you think of when you hear this word? On Wednesday, February 22 it’s all about being humble. Take this day and ground yourself. Bring it down a notch. Do not brag, boast or exhibit pride. It is a day to come down to earth and come to grips with the fact that you are not perfect. Think of ways to humble yourself.
Remember that we are human and make mistakes. Accept that and embrace it. Even if you do not accept the faults and imperfections of others, do it for yourself. Put your ego aside. For some, this is a hard thing to do. Just practice some humility and you will see and feel the difference.
Being a well-accomplished person is no small feat. Just try to keep it under wraps for the day. It does not mean that you have low self-esteem or are downgrading what you have achieved. Instead, about having that personal knowledge of your achievements and not feeling the need to verbalize them at every turn.
Examples
Listen to others who are speaking, without interrupting. This shows the person that you are truly listening to what they have to say. You are putting them first in that moment and not just concerned with what you have to say.
Pride has no place on Humble Day. Put others first. Doing so opens us up to new experiences. When we get out of our own head, we have room to grow and see things from another perspective.
Be mindful of your actions and words. Being mindful shows that even though you may feel a certain way, keep it to yourself and consider the other person’s feelings. Little things do matter.
For those with children, teach them how to humble themselves. Explain to them why it can change their outlook and make them go deeper to learn some things about themselves.
Instead of seeking out attention, give attention to someone else. See how you feel afterward.
Outcomes
Come to the realization that life is not always about ourselves but about embracing others too. When we celebrate others, it is all a trickle affect and it comes back around.
Know that boasting proves nothing. Keeping it to yourself sometimes can be a good thing. Your accomplishments will be obvious. No need to brag and tell everyone. Your inner light will shine through.
Humbling yourself does not diminish who you are. The practice of being humble gives us the chance to look outside of ourselves and see other things and people. It forces us to see life through a new and different lens.
Bring It Down a Notch
Putting away the selfishness and pride truly does make a difference to all mankind. When we humble ourselves, we are more likely to help others. This practice lends us with more awareness of what is happening around us and in the world. It is a way of enlightenment.
Humble Day is on February 22nd but who says it has to end there. If you have a humbling experience that changed your life, consider sharing. It may inspire others and let them see the light. If you don’t want to share, that’s okay too. Go back to that moment and use that experience as an example to guide your actions on Humble Day.
Body, hair and cleanse is the topic today. Things that we do for ourselves on a regular basis and not think twice about. It just comes naturally. While doing these things sometimes we get bombarded when trying to decide on just the right product for these regular rituals.
Welcome to my first review of products for hair, skin, and body. I have chosen some products that I have tried in the past, as well as some that I currently use. If you have ever considered using some of these products but just wasn’t quite sure, take a look.
BODY LOTION AND CREAM
Keeping the body smooth and moist is very important. It helps to slow wrinkling and keeps the skin looking healthy. Especially, during the colder months moisturizing is a must.
Body Lotion and Cream
Cantu Skin Therapy Shea Butter Nourishing Body Lotion
Pros- Nourishing and truly moisturizes the skin.
Cons- Highly scented. Using this, you do not want to wear any perfume on top of this product.
This lotion does moisturize the skin but is highly scented. It contains shea butter which always does the job. You will feel like you are wearing perfume. If that is the desired result, then this is the product for you. I would caution on using this in the summer, it might attract bugs due to the highly perfumed scent.
Dove Whipped Body Cream Pomegranate/Shea Butter
Pros- Moisturizing. Lightly scented.
Cons- Does not really have the scent of pomegranate, which is why I made the purchase.
This body cream is okay. It is worth trying. Does provide moisture but not very long-lasting. Other scents are available to try. If you are looking for a cream that smells like pomegranate, you might want to skip this one.
Jergens Nourishing Honey Body Lotion
Pros- Great moisturizer for the skin. Best if used during cooler months when skin is extremely dry. It has a light scent to it, not overpowering at all.
Cons- Very thick texture, so avoid using during summer months. It will just sit on top of the skin. Especially, if you perspire a lot.
Great moisturizing lotion. Inexpensive and easy to find at most retailers. Any of the Jergens nourishing lotions work great for maximum moisture protection for your skin.
HAIR PRODUCTS
Either of these two products are used after washing and conditioning the hair. You can apply these and sit under the hooded dryer or use as a detangler for wet hair then blow dry. If you want to wet set for a curly style these are good choices. You can also use them for wrapping the hair.
Hair products
Smooth ‘N Shine Polishing Foaming Wrap Lotion
Pros- Sets the hair. Foams nicely. Helps with detangling wet hair.
Cons- The smell of this product is not pleasant.
Overall, I did not like this product. It does what it should to set the hair. The smell of it and its polishing qualities fell short for me.
Lotta Body Coconut & Shea Oils Texturizing Setting Lotion
Pros- As the title says, lotta body. This product delivers on body and bounce. Easy to find at most stores. This product does not flake. It also works as a detangler. Use while hair is wet and curl or wrap the hair, sit under the dryer and hair will have shine and bounce.
Cons- Formula is very concentrated, do not use too much.
Great product to use for wet setting the hair or wrapping. You can also use as a detangler if you want to simply blow dry your hair, after washing and conditioning. Smells nice too.
SOAP AND BODYWASH
The products below are for those looking for a body cleanser without harsh chemicals. If you have sensitive skin and are looking for something that will not irritate or dry out your skin, these may be a good alternative.
Soap and Bodywash
Basis Sensitive Skin Bar
Pros- Love, love, love this soap! Did I mention that I love this soap? Very gentle to the skin, no harsh chemicals, long lasting bar. Cleanses the skin well.
Cons- A little pricey. Hard to find in most stores. May have to order online.
This soap leaves the skin feeling clean and non-drying. Even though it is pricey, it is worth it. You get what you pay for, and this is worth a try.
Equate Sensitive Skin Body Wash
Pros- Long lasting, a little goes a long way. Cleanses the skin and leaves it feeling moisturized. Can buy it as a single bottle or a double pack. Works as well as Dove for sensitive skin soap but less expensive.
Cons- None
This body wash works well and lasts a long time. You only need a small amount to lather and clean the skin. The price is affordable, especially for a sensitive skin formula. The double pack is more cost effective.
Dove Unscented Sensitive Skin Soap (not pictured)
Pros- Great soap to use for sensitive skin. Leaves skin feeling moisturized and supple.
Cons- Soap easily dissolves. On the pricey side. Can leave skin feeling moist in areas that you do not want moisture.
Dove sensitive skin soap is a good soap for those with sensitive skin. It is also, highly recommended by doctors. Great skin moisturizer. Be careful not to leave this soap sitting in water, it easily dissolves.
Body, Hair and Cleanse
If you currently use any of these and have a similar experience, I would love to hear from you. Also, if you have tried other products that are worth trying, please share your experience. I hope you have enjoyed the reviews and I will be back in the future with more.
Disclaimer: Please note, this is only my opinion, based on my personal experience with these products. I am not receiving any monetary compensation for said opinions.
Both men and women have lost in love at least once. Some are fortunate enough to have found their true love. I say true love because there is a difference in saying you love someone and showing it. Do you think men are more capable of love than women? It depends on who you ask and their experience with love.
In my opinion, I think women are more capable of love. The reason is because women are nurturers and mothers and as such, more accepting. I don’t believe that you can be accepting without love. You have to start with love in order to accept or nurture something or someone.
Don’t get me wrong, men are capable too. I have seen it. It does exist. We must give them credit. I think the thing that holds some men back is feeling less masculine when showing their loving or nurturing side.
Can you answer this? Is a man or woman more capable of love? What do you think?
Let’s take a minute to bring attention to something that is happening all over the country. African Americans have lost their lives due to police brutality. It does nothing for the officers who honor life and truly believe in the notion to protect and serve. When you see officers on both sides of the coin, how do you discern between the ones who uphold the law and those who do not?
Being in a role of authority, there comes great responsibility. Responsibility to uphold duties for the community in its entirety. More frequently these days this is not the case, the opposite is happening. Basic human rights are being taken away at the hands of people who took an oath to protect and serve. Preserve life, not take it away.
Too many times, certain people take their authoritative position to the extreme. When people see you, they should not fear for their lives. They should have the opposite feeling of comfort and/or safety. When people see you, they should not run away from you. Instead, walk towards you with a general feeling of trust. What happens to the world when the people who are meant to be in place to help others are the real perpetrators!
It is a form of abuse of power. Taking advantage of individuals because you are in a position to temporarily control a situation. Using phrases such as, “I felt that my life was in jeopardy”, as an excuse. An excuse to beat, choke, kneel, shoot, choke and kill another human being. And, why? Because you can. Because you hide behind a piece of metal that you wear on your chest. You escape prosecution because you are upheld by some who wear the same piece of metal.
Protect people, preserve life. That piece of metal does not give you rights to take another’s life. Those people have families, just like you. Some also have children, just like you. They have people who love them and are looking forward to them coming home safely. What kind of protection are you providing when people have to take out their cell phone to record a routine traffic stop? Disrupting people’s lives with your contempt is not acceptable. What happened to trying to restore order by using the least amount of force? Thank you to the officers who help people, who are serving all people. To the ones who are not, shame on you!
Serve All People
As a uniformed person, working under the law. Honor that! Serve the people. Serve us with dignity, respect, kindness. I know there are encounters that you experience where you are not met with kindness. You are trained to handle these situations. This is what you signed up for and are trained to handle such situations in the least harmful way.
I implore you to approach your daily interactions, while on the job with humility. Please, do not wake up and put on that uniform with contempt and hatred for people and your profession. If you find it so hard to go into it with some semblance of humanity, stop and think. Think before you take someone else’s life. Stop and ask yourself if this is the profession for you. We all deserve to live. We all deserve to go home at the end of the day.
Rest in Peace
Let’s take a moment to remember some of the people who lost their lives due to brutality.
Unity is peace, Unity is the umbrella
Being united means coming together
Together for whatever comes our way
Differences, views and opinions
The issues will come our way almost every day
Unity will be the saving grace
Grace keeps our sanity together in every way
Grace begets compassion and understanding
Compassion for what is different than us
Understanding for things we don’t know
In our hearts grace and unity will overflow
Equality, acceptance, hope and love
Is what a sense of unity does
For communities both below and above
We may look different on the outside
But we all have blood running through our veins
Let not those things make us collide
When we have grace, love remains
Unity not division, lets love take over
What we thought we knew about one another
Take the time to speak
Speak to that sister or brother
Resist the urge that breeds
Hatred, violence and racial bias
We may not always agree
Unity is what frees
Black history month and year long
Promote unity not the same sad song
Songs of brutality, racism and wrongs
Unity pushes everyone along
---O'Nika McGill---
Unity was first published on Inspire By O'Nika
Feb 5, 2023
February is Black History month. In order to understand the present, we must look at the past. Let’s give credit where credit is due. The farmers, boaters/fishermen, and Olympians oftentimes get overlooked and left out. Although, we will never forget about civil rights leaders, freedom fighters who have paved the way, years ago.
Daisy Gatson Bates
Daisy Gatson Bates Day is Feb 21. We can credit this Arkansas native for being an activist against racial discrimination. During her civil rights work, she was the president of the NAACP, Arkansas chapter. In 1957, she played a major role in desegregation at Little Rock Central High School. Read “The Long Shadow of Little Rock: A memoir” and learn about her legacy.
NAACP Day
NAACP Day is February 12. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People sets out to help with equality and civil rights for all people. The NAACP is about addressing issues of racial discrimination. Throughout its history, this organization addresses immigration issues, misconduct by police, voting rights and economic development.
One way to honor the NAACP’s mission is by making a donation. This group has made strides for centuries since its inception in 1909. If you feel that you can contribute to their causes for job equality, voting rights, healthcare and education, please do. In an effort to combat fair education, they have partnered with other organizations to provide scholarships for African American students.
Farming-John W. Boyd, Jr, founder of the National Black Farmers Association is instrumental in advancing rights for black farmers. Agriculture is a very important part of the foundation for the entire world. Mr. Boyd had to take legal action against the government over financial relief for farmers that was promised but did not happen. He is painfully aware that African American farmers do not get the same relief and support. In light of that, he tirelessly champions on to get what is only fair for farmers.
Fishing-The Ebony Anglers is a black, female fishing team from North Carolina. This is a competitive fishing team who is making history. Look them up and see if they give you inspiration to branch into a field where both women and African Americans are under-represented. The Ebony Anglers have passed on their efforts to the youth. Black Boys Boat and Black Girls Fish was formed by this amazing group. They make what they do look easy, but it is still hard work. Kudos to them for passing down their knowledge to the youth about the fishing and boating industries.
Swimming-Who is Simone Manuel? She is the first black woman to win an Olympic Gold medal in swimming in the year 2016. Simone is setting the bar and inspiring other young people to follow their dreams. Even though there are so few black swimmers who compete; she is proof that it is possible. Feeling left out at times in her swimming career, she is a strong advocate for inclusivity. Simone Manuel is a young, black athlete who can use her platform to influence positive change in the swimming arena and worldwide.
African American Coaches Day
African American Coaches Day is Feb 7. Coaching is not just related to sports. Today, we have life coaches as well. This is a lucrative profession. Coaching helps people attain their personal and career goals. It gives people something to strive for. Life coaching may be an avenue to explore for those who are known to be procrastinators. It helps with holding yourself accountable and sticking with a plan.
Coaching a sports team for the youth is a way of mentorship. It helps give the children structure, discipline and a sense of high self-esteem. Also, it teaches team building. When you have kids working together it also builds friendships and creates a positive atmosphere. Skills learned from playing on the team are skillsets that stay with them well into adulthood. Coaching is time well spent. Let’s continue to shape the future of our youth.
Black History Month Past and Present
As you can see, African Americans of the past and present are making history. While we might not have been around in some of the times when they were making their impact, we can still live and feel the effects of their hard work. Black history is history for all. African Americans have felt the strains of society for centuries. In the face of hardships and hard times, we have still managed to hold true to ourselves and make a positive difference in the world.
Lets continue to encourage and support our young athletes, farmers and communities to make for a better world. We can all benefit and live together and have more equality, if we put our minds to it and put in some effort.
Martin Luther King, Jr. said, ” I have a dream”
Malcolm X- “By any means necessary”
Harriet Tubman soldiered with the underground railroad. “I never ran my train off the track, and I never lost a passenger”.
Gordon Parks changed the world behind the camera. “The subject matter is so much more important than the photographer”.
Black Love Day is about all kinds of love. Be it love of Black culture, romantic black love, love of African American people. Any kind of admiration for Black creatives, musicians, performers, inventors, entrepreneurs, etc. Alternatively, some will celebrate their special someone on this day instead of Valentine’s Day. Show love on this day and think about how we can instill more peace and less hate in the Black community. We have Ayo Handy-Kendi to thank for this celebration of Black Love. Practice self-love and forgiveness. Take a moment to share your personal stories of affection/admiration for African American people on social media. Volunteer, educate others and/or support African American businesses. Celebrate in a way that is the most meaningful for you.
February is the time of year we focus on heart health. Even though we focus on taking care of it all year long. It is an important organ and I know we don’t think about it, but it works hard for our entire body. The heart pumps blood through our arteries to all the vital areas it needs to go. Without proper heart function, we can have health problems. Some of these may not be obvious at first. The heart symbolizes love, so we should show our bodies some love. Nourishing ourselves with healthier foods to contribute to better functionality is the key. Exercise also helps to keep the blood flowing and bring oxygen to our heart.
Feb 14- Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is usually a day for couples to celebrate and show their love for each other. February 14th is one of the top spending holidays. You will see people wearing red or pink. A lot of flowers, candy, balloons, jewelry, personal gifts and dinner dates will be had on this day. Everyone shows their token of love in different ways. You may have a personal ritual that you partake in on Valentine’s Day to show your love. Send you Valentine’s Day wishes to yoru closest friends, relatives and loved ones.
Luis Muñoz MarÃn was the first governor to be elected in Puerto Rico. He was re-elected 3 times. The Puerto Rican native was instrumental in efforts to improve farming and housing on the island. In addition to his political pursuits, he was a journalist. The airport in PR is named after him, as well as part of 116th Street in Spanish Harlem, NY.
Feb 20- Presidents Day
In 2023, President’s Day is February 20th. Take this day to learn about the past presidents. Finding out what happened and how these men changed America will help to understand some of the customs of the present day. Do you know how cherries are associated with today? Hint; think George Washington.
Feb 26- Pistachio Day
Pistachios are nuts that come in several varieties. Buy these shelled, roasted, unsalted or without the shell. Although these nuts provide health benefits, be careful not to eat too many. Pistachios are packed with protein and fiber. Therefore, they help in losing weight. By keeping you feeling full, they help you to consume less. Pistachio’s aid in lowering high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Try incorporating these into your diet and see the changes in your health. They are also good for heart health.
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.
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.
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.
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--
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
Epiphany, Three Kings Day, DÃa 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.
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 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.
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.
Open me, open me
What is inside
The suspense is killing me
Taking me on a wild ride
A new pair of shoes
A new dress
My mind is wandering
Let me take a guess
Open me, open me
But please don't shake
The sound may give it away
What has taken a long time to make
A photo album
put together nicely
Fond memories of yesteryear
Nothing too pricey
Open me, open me
If you get lonely or sad
Just look at the pictures
You will be glad you had
Memories of yesteryear
what a joy to see
lost in the back of my mind
What a delight to finally find
Is it better to be wealthy with little to no true friends or humble/poor with many friends?
Wealth affords a lot of things. Alternatively, having friends are an advantage too. You can consider yourself rich if you have both wealth and a network of friends. True friends. Sometimes when people are financially wealthy, they have people around them but not necessarily all of them can be called a friend. You know, there are groupies, moochers, free loaders, etc. It can be hard to tell if those people are truly your friend or just hanging around because of what you have. And more importantly, what they can get from you. Call it what it is, I’m sure you have all seen this scenario before.
Having friends provides an emotional support system
A listening ear is just a phone call away in those times when you just need to talk
Feeling of community
Social life is always possible
Being humble/poor with many friends gives you the feeling that the people in your life are there for you. They are not concerned with what you have or do not have. You don’t have to wonder if they are around for some other reason. Genuine friends are hard to come by and when you don’t have much in the way of material things, but you have friends, that is nothing to take lightly.
Having money is good but it comes with some downsides too. Like not knowing who has an agenda or ulterior motive. You can buy many things with money, but you can’t buy friends or love. Money does not buy happiness.
On the other hand, having friends does provide happiness. You have people around you to celebrate you and in return; you them. Maybe being humble/poor causes stress in your life. That friend(s) sometimes makes it all better when they still visit you. They don’t judge you for your humble wardrobe or humble home.
