Tag: inspiration

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Self Awareness Topic Words of Wisdom

Bring It Down a Notch

Bring it down a notch. Be humble for Humble Day.

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.

Image credit: Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

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Info Topic

Body, Hair and Cleanse

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.

Illustration credit: Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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.

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Can You Answer This? Is a Man or Woman More Capable of Love?

Is a Man or Woman More Capable of Love?

Photo by Nathan Nichols on Unsplash

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?

Categories
Diversity Topic Words of Wisdom

Unity

Unity
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

Categories
Info Topic Words of Wisdom

Happy February 2023

Football Fans- Super Bowl Sunday

February 12th

Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles

Feb 13- Black Love Day

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.

4 Ways to Keep Your Relationship Strong
4 Ways to Keep Your Relationship Strong

Heart Awareness Month

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.

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

Feb 18-Birthday of Luis Muñoz Marín

Puerto Rican Flag

Luis Muñoz Marín 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.

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
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.

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Lost Memories of Yesteryear

Lost Memories of Yesteryear

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

Written in response to Sadje’s prompt #166 WDYS

Image credit: Monstera at Pexels

Categories
Topic

Can You Answer This? What Does Home Mean to You?

Image credit, Julia Filirovska on Pexels

Can You Answer This? What does home mean to you?

When you think of home does it make you smile? Home is a safe haven away from everything else. It is the place where you can be yourself. It’s where you go to rest and recharge after a hard day at work. Think of it as your sanctuary.

What I’m saying is that a home is more than just bricks and wood on a cement slab. It’s a place to relax while watching a good movie. Also, one of the best places to enjoy a meal with family. A peaceful place to gather your thoughts and meditate, if you want to.

If home does not resonate in a positive way, think of ways to change that and make it a happy place for you. It’s the least you can do for your wellbeing. 😉 I know it is not always possible to have a quiet moment if you have small children. Just find a space and/or corner of the house to call your own. Make it your go-to place in those moments of stress. Call it whatever you want in order to recharge your mind.

So, what does home mean to you?

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Inside the Shell of the Human

Photo by Joshua Fuller on Unsplash

Inside the shell of the human is complex. Humans are made up of more than just a shell. More than what you see on the outside. Beneath the skin, lies character, emotions, and the essence of a person. What we see is not always representative of what is inside. Some people are good at camouflaging their feelings. You would never know that something horrific was going on.

If something seems off about someone you know, stop for a minute to ask. Not to say, do an interogation but stop to check on that person. You can’t tell from the outside what people are going through. This time of year brings a lot of emotions and triggers for people. It is not always the happiest of times for everyone.

How to be there for someone

If you see someone going through a hard time, you want to help. The question is, “how do you help?”. It can be tricky when you worry about how the person may respond to your concern. Some people may take it as you being intrusive in their life, some may be offended that you said something, some may be relieved that their feelings are being seen by someone else.

When in doubt about how to help someone who is depressed, grieving, sad or just not themselves, here are some suggestions:

  • Listen, just let them talk and you listen. Sometimes they just want to be heard. Be that ear and/or shoulder to cry on.
  • Be there, let them know that you are there mentally and physically. It is therapeutic for some just to be in the presence of someone who cares. It brings comfort for them to not be alone.
  • Offer to help with everyday chores. If they need help with housework, or a meal or two. Maybe they have errands that they need help with. Make sure to keep your word with this and don’t offer anything you are not willing to actually do.
  • Don’t judge; it might seem like something small to you but it obviously feels different for them.
  • Offer resources like any local places, online sites, or phone numbers where they can connect with someone.
Photo by Gus Moretta on Unsplash

In conclusion

Unless you are a licensed professional, it is hard to tell what a person needs in order to feel better. It is difficult to see a friend or loved one going through something and not know what to do. Just use your best judgement and try your best to help.

Inside the shell of the human holds many things. This time of year can be extremely difficult for many people. Just be mindful of this and keep that in the forefront of your mind. Mental health is not something a lot of people want to discuss, but it is very important. Of course, take care of yourself first. Otherwise, you cannot be good for others if you, yourself are not good.

Resources

Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence 800-799-7233 or https://www.thehotline.org

Sanvello | On-demand help for stress, anxiety, and depression

HeyPeers – Where Peers and Support Groups Connect

https://www.fcc.gov/988-Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Blogging Insights, Reaching Out Through Words

Speak Your Piece

TODAY’S QUOTE

” What I’m really concerned about is reaching one person.”

— Jorge Luis Borges

Written in response to Tanya’s prompt

Blogging Insights NF # 63 — Reaching out

This quote invokes a few thoughts. Blogging, for me, affords a way of reaching the person(s) who may want to read my message. I realize that some topics may not apply to everyone but it’s okay. Knowing that at least one person read my post makes it worth the time. If I can make someone laugh or smile, then great!

Also, I like to pose thought-provoking and fun questions to get input about what others think about a specific topic. It is always interesting to hear what other’s opinions are about the same topic. Hearing feedback from others is important. My hope is that people start thinking about the possibilities for themselves and not give up. If I can give someone that nudge to try something that they have been thinking about, then I have succeeded.

Additionally, I find blogging entertaining and fun. If I can make just one person smile or if I change the outlook of someone’s day, then that is gratifying. When my posts have a positive effect on the reader, it makes me smile as well. Even if the reader doesn’t relate to what I’m writing about, it might spark up new and interesting conversations.

Image by Memed_Nurrohmad from Pixabay

Categories
Self Awareness Topic

I Done Told You!

I Done Told You!

Knock before coming in.

Shakira was getting ready for her special date. She had all her “accessories” lined up and ready to go. The wig that she just bought, the fake eyelashes and press on nails were all on the dresser in her bedroom.

Suddenly, as she is sitting there at the vanity, getting pretty she sees her teenage son in the mirror. He had just walked in without knocking.

He got scared at the sight of this “stranger” in his Mom’s room. There Shakira was without her wig, nails and lashes on. No make-up either. He ran out of the room and came back with a baseball bat. “Who are you and what are you doing here?!” he demanded. “Where is my Mom?”

Shakira stood up in her bra and butt pads, turned around to face him then he realized who she was.

She snapped at him, I done told you about coming in my room without knocking first boy!  You don’t listen. Now you got me all riled up. I’m gonna be late getting ready for my date.

Totally embarrassed by walking in and seeing his mom that way, he just walked out and went back to his room. That’s a sight he wants to forget; sooner rather than later.

Lesson learned, never enter a room without knocking. You never know what you will find on the other side of that door.

You have been warned.

Written for Sadje’s prompt #162 WDYS

What do you see # 162- November 28, 2022

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Info Topic

December is the Season

Farmer’s Day (Dec 2) Ghana

Ghana
Image by David from Pixabay

The first Friday in December is recognized as Farmer’s Day in Ghana. This day is to recognize the farming and fishing industries. Agriculture is an important part of this region of Africa. It is a week-long occasion marked by festivals and networking events. Not only is agriculture important in Ghana but also in other parts of the world.  Bushfires in the early 80s led to food shortages. The destruction of crops is what prompted the government to get involved.  Let us honor farmers and fishermen that bring us nutritious food.  Agriculture provides a strong foundation for the well-being of everyone.  Also, it has a great impact on the economy.

Happy Birthday Sagittarians and Capricorns

Happy Birthday
Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash

Jay Z (Dec 4)

Happy Birthday Jay Z! He is an American Rapper married to recording artist Beyonce Knowles. His music career started with Reasonable Doubt in 1996. He is an example and an inspiration for anyone who aspires to change their life around. He started from humble beginnings in Brooklyn, NY and look at him now! ” What more can I say?”, from The Black Album.

Denzel Washington (Dec 28)

Happy Birthday Denzel Washington! Who doesn’t know Denzel? He is a talented actor with a long and successful career in movies and TV. He has such a presence about him in his roles on the screen. It doesn’t hurt that he is easy on the eyes. He is the first African American actor to win two Academy Awards.

“Goals on the road to achievement cannot be achieved without discipline and consistency.” – Denzel Washington

National Re-Gifting Day (Dec 15)

Re-gifting
Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

The jury is still out on this one. I found that National Re-gifting day occurs on the third Thursday in December, which would be the 15th. Also, I have found some sources say it falls on the Thursday right before Christmas, which would be the 22nd. There is an actual day set aside for this, who knew? I learn something new all the time. Anyway, I asked the question about a month ago; What is your take on re-gifting? Not a lot of people expressed their opinion on the subject. I suspect, it may be out of fear of being judged by others. National Re-gifting day is a chance to recycle or re-use some items that may not otherwise get to be enjoyed by someone.

National Coquito Day (Dec 21) Puerto Rico

Coquito
Photo by Maria Moledo on Unsplash

December 21 is National Coquito Day. Coquito is a Puerto Rican holiday drink. You will not find two coquito recipes that are alike. It is the island’s version of eggnog. Rum, cream of coconut and condensed milk are the main ingredients. This drink is guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit. Please enjoy in small quantities, as this is a potent holiday concoction. Small sips only, don’t get a big mug or glass and think you are going to get up and walk afterwards ;-)Not only can you enjoy this with family and friends but also Coquito can be given as a gift.

National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month

Don’t Drink, Drug and Drive

December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention month. There are an increased number of impaired drivers on the road around the holiday season, Christmas, New Year’s Eve. The spike in accidents and deaths attributes to people thinking they are ok to drive after getting together for parties and celebrating with libations. Although, there is nothing wrong with enjoying alcoholic beverages, do it in a responsible way. If you are out and know you have had one too many, take a taxi, Uber or have someone else drive you. If you are in walking distance, walk home. Have a designated driver. Getting behind the wheel after drinking and drugging has proven to be fatal, time and time again. Give everyone the chance to live life and have fun by not driving while impaired.

Christmas (Dec 25)

Merry Christmas
Photo by Alin Andersen on Unsplash

The day Jesus Christ was born, also known as Christmas. Christmas is celebrated in many ways. For those who do observe this day, it holds a special significance. Some people go to church, some families gather around the Christmas tree and exchange gifts. Christmas dinner is also a tradition on this day. The country has strayed a little from the religious aspect of December 25th and its meaning. This day has become very commercialized. Different countries have their own way of celebrating this holiday. One thing that is notable is all the decorations, inside homes and outside. Check out a local Christmas light display in your area. This is a very uplifting time of year, with the songs, lights, decorations, and gifts.

Kwanzaa (Dec 26-Jan 1)

Kwanzaa
Image by RODNAE Productions on Pexels

Kwanzaa is an African American celebration. However, you don’t have to be African American to take part in the festivities. Children are very much a part of this celebration. Even though gifts are given during Kwanzaa it is primarily based on the seven principles. Purpose, creativity, economics, unity, faith, self-determination and responsibility. Each day a candle is lit and families talk about one of the seven principles. Every principle has a corresponding symbolic gift which consist of ears of corn, a mat made of straw, a communal cup which stands for unity, fruits and veggies. Some people don traditional African clothing during Kwanzaa. On New Year’s Eve, Dec 31 a communal feast called karamu is held.

December image credit- Guneet Jassal on Unsplash

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What is your Favorite Christmas Movie?

What is your favorite Christmas movie? The holiday season is here. During this time of year, there are a ton of holiday movies playing. You can watch an animated version, a Christmas comedy, a romance or the regular kind. A few titles come to mind when I think about some of my favorites.

Home Alone– Kevin gets into all kinds of things when he gets left behind by the family. He comes up with some clever plots to stop would-be burglars who think the house is empty.

This Christmas– This Christmas is a movie about more than the holidays. It is about family, love, and life. I’m sure most of us can relate to at least one character in this movie. There is some good music in this one too.

A Charlie Brown Christmas– This one is a classic, if you like the Peanuts gang! It always puts me in a good mood when I watch it.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas– Jim Carrey (the Grinch) is up to no good in this one.

The Best Man Holiday– Even though this one was a little sad, there is some laughter too.

Black Nativity– Some life lessons and good singing in this one to lift your spirits.

Drop a note and share with us, what is your favorite Christmas movie? Don’t be shy 🙂

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Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary! It has been 1 year since the inception of Inspire By O’Nika- Inspire, Motivate, Uplift. What a very rewarding year and I am so happy to share with all of you. Since starting this blog, I have learned a lot. Thank you for all the love, comments, and feedback. Hope you have enjoyed the content. Looking forward to another year.  

November is Hip Hop History Month

Click the image to read the article on
Hip Hop Music Culture of the 80s and 90s

Let’s review some of the most popular blog posts from this year

Just in case you missed it, below are some of the most read posts published this year. Happy reading, watching and listening! 

Self-Esteem and Why It’s Important

Light or Dark Skin. What’s In a Complexion

The Game of Life; Are You Playing Offense or Defense 

Radio Interview ft. O’Nika
Gun Violence; We Can Do Without It
What Right Do You Have to be A Woman?
Video Message; Thank You
Click on the link to view, read or listen

Happy Anniversary to Inspire By O’Nika!

As always, thank you for stopping by.