Tag: inspiration

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Come Into the Light

Come Into the Light

Come into the light
All is not lost
Life can be a conundrum
Which do you choose; fight or flight?

Come into the light
Flames are still smoldering
Calling for your attention
Release the pressures you are shouldering

Come into the light
Turn on the wick
Accept light and love
Fulfillment comes real quick

Come into the light
Whether you choose fight or flight
Flames are still smoldering
Accept light and love

Image credit: Kier in Sight Archives on Unsplash

Come into the light was written in response to the picture prompt by Sadje, What do you see # 222- January 22, 2024.

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Topic Words of Wisdom

Curate Your Craft

How do you process your creative content? Do you record or write when the thought or idea strikes, or do you curate it until it is just right? Whether your craft is video, blogging or Podcasting. How do you curate your craft? The creative process is not the same for us all. That is what makes it so fun. We all have our own way of doing things. Keeps it interesting.

Which method do you most identify with?

  • The thought strikes and you jot it down right away or record content before the idea escapes. You post it quickly.
  • An idea comes to mind, you create a rough draft. Next, you let it marinate for a day or two. Then, you make a few edits and post.
  • A concept hits you like a brick. You save it and keep adding more to it, until you feel like it is just right. After compiling your data and putting it all together, it’s now day five. You finally post.
  • Or… this one is a doozy. You create your content and frame it up nicely. Publish/post it. After it is posted, you go back and make edits. So many edits, that it changes the meaning of what you were trying to say from the onset.

The examples above demonstrate how creating content can either be a quick process or a long arduous task. It really does not matter as long as you are satisfied with it in the end. Sometimes we feel like the content could have been better, longer, more precise and in-depth. It’s okay, we have other opportunities where we can do just that.

It’s called the “human condition” which makes us feel like we should change it. Make it shorter, add more to it or revamp the entire piece. As long as people enjoy watching, reading and/or listening, it’s okay. Don’t beat yourself up about it.

Enjoy the creative process. Curate your craft until your heart is content. Smile while doing it and share. You never know who will need to receive what you have put out there in the universe.

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Helpful Benefits of Plants

January 10th is National Houseplant Appreciation Day. All of us do not have green thumbs but there are plants out there for everyone. Some plants require more attention than others. The basics are water and sunlight. Let’s look at the helpful benefits of plants.

Houseplant on bookshelf

Houseplants give us a sense of calm and they also produce oxygen. If you want to observe National Houseplant Appreciation Day on January 10th, start by buying a plant if you do not have any. For the plants you already have, make sure they have water and the right amount of sunlight.

You might want to spruce up the place with the purchase of an added plant for the house. Consider gifting a houseplant to someone. This also might be a good day to teach your children about growing houseplants. I will admit, I do not have a green thumb, but I take my time and go slowly with nurturing and taking care of my plants.

Health benefits include mood boosting, removing dust particles from a room, added moisture during those winter months, fragrant plants for relaxation and medicinal plants like Aloe. Also, some plants help to clean the air and make breathing easier. Simply put, adding some greenery to your space has many positive benefits.

Don’t forget to talk to your plants. You will feel better, and it will make you smile too. Plus, they look and smell nice too.

Houseplant

Try these varieties to get you started!

  • Money Trees-require less water and light
  • Snake Houseplant- air purifying plant
  • Aglaonema Plant-splash of color and low maintenance
  • ZZ Plant- keep this one in low light/shady areas
  • Dieffenbachia Plant- needs medium-bright light. Works well for humid areas like kitchen and/or bathroom
  • Spider Plant- easy to maintain

Add some greenery to your space at home and try your hand to find your favorite plant variety. They are great stress relievers as well. Can you see the helpful benefits of plants and all their uses?

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Rock Your Skill Set

Rock Your Skill Set

A skill set is something that we each own. It is a part of what makes us who we are. No one is good at everything but there are some things that we excel at. So, the moral of the story is to rock your skill set.

The things that you are good at, use those things. You know how the saying goes, “use it or lose it”. The same applies here. We were gifted these gifts so that we can hone them and put them to use.

Public Speaking

Public speaking is a skill set. If you feel comfortable and, in your element, when speaking to a crowd/group, do more of that. If you get a feeling of satisfaction, knowing that you have helped someone with the message you are bringing, expound on that. Everyone cannot get up in front of a crowd to say one sentence. It is harder than you think. Do not discount this skill.

Oppurtunites for public speaking are available. Through volunteering, networking and business events, politics and education, these skills are very useful. Children can always benefit from hearing sage advice and soaking up useful information. Information that they can take with them and apply in today’s world. Information that will make them stop and think first about their actions and the consequences.

Listening Skills

Listening skills. Believe it or not it is difficult to be a good listener. Some of us are only interested in what we have to say and not what the other person is saying. It requires patience and constraint to not jump in while the other person is talking. You have to concentrate on what you are hearing and comprehend, understand and process before you iterate your next thought. Listen to understand and not just to hear.

Animal Lover

Love animals? If you love animals, a career at a veterinary clinic may be just for you. Maybe you want to be a pet sitter or dog walker. The animal shelters always have fur babies who need a good home. Consider adopting one of them.

Helping People

Helping people complete tasks is another area that you can explore. The elderly or others who are incapacitated may need help with everyday chores. You can explore a career in customer service or nursing. So many options exist for you to shine and do what you love.

It is a new year, and we can begin again. Do the things we haven’t done in a while. If you are short on time, consider volunteering for something that fits your schedule. No matter what your skill set is, you possess it for a reason. Use it.

Re-create; Dare to be You

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Self Awareness Topic Words of Wisdom

The Season for Celebration

The Season for Celebration

**1/7/24 post updated: The Hannukah celebration by the Jewish community is not widely celebrated due to security reasons. The current state of affairs of the war, in no way is meant to imply that the Jewish community is the cause. My sincerest apologies to every and anyone who may have been offended. **

The time of year is here. The season of celebration, thankfulness, giving, family and reflection. We have all heard of Thanksgiving, Christmas and Kwanzaa. Among those, people also celebrate Diwali and Three Kings Day. I know there are other celebrations being had across the world. Hannukah is a celebration by the Jewish community. Unfortunately, due to the current state of war these may not be celebrated as widely, because of security reasons.

The point I am getting to, is that no matter what part of the country you live, we all have something to celebrate and be thankful for. The world is not perfect but we can all find at least one thing that is worthy of celebration.

Family

Family is a reason to be thankful. We do not always see eye-to-eye and agree on things, but family is a good reason to be thankful. Maybe, this time of year family can bury the hatchet and squash old beefs in the name of renewal for the new year. Release the weight and be free from the hold. You will feel so much better and be glad that you did.

Health

Celebrate health. If you are ambulatory and have full use of your limbs, celebrate that. You might be thinking, so what that’s nothing to celebrate. Just think if you couldn’t walk on your own. Having to depend on others to do for you. You will appreciate the use of those legs to drive a car, go to work, play with your small children. Taking a walk or even exercising.

Love

Love is a reason to celebrate. If you are coupled up, whether you are married or have a boo. Celebrate that love. Whatever that thing is that brought you together, reflect on it and celebrate in your own way.

The Season for Celebration

Every culture has their holiday rituals and traditions. If you are not in a celebratory mood, try to get out of that funk. It won’t be easy but find a reason to smile. If you haven’t been practicing your religion, go back to that. If you haven’t talked to your friends/family in a while, do that. The things that bring a smile to your face and make you feel good inside, revisit that.

Giving

Let me not forget the season for giving. It is not always about money. Give someone a smile or a compliment. If someone asks for your advice, give them true and sound advice. Hug yourself and say something nice. If you do participate in giving for the holiday season, give with a whole heart and not expect anything in return.

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Dos de Noviembre

Dos de Noviembre or should I say, November 2. It is a significant and personal date that holds a special meaning to me. November 2nd is the date that Inspire By O’Nika was born. ¡Feliz aniversario! The inception of a blog that I never thought about doing before. It was a day that has a special meaning because I was moved to share inspiration with the world.

Since I started the blog I have learned a lot, met some new people in the world of blogosphere. With all the things going on around the world, I wanted to bring a smile to people. Even when you felt like you didn’t have it in you. I wanted to give people inspiration and let them know that you can do what you set your mind to.

Motivating people who may need to hear a certain word of encouragement. Thank you to all who have stopped by to read my blogs, listen to my radio interview and watched my videos. It is you who give me the motivation to keep going. I truly thank you all.

Happy 2 year anniversary to Inspire By O’Nika!

image credit: by 953968 from Pixabay

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Self Awareness Topic Words of Wisdom

Can You Answer This? Name something about yourself that you are proud of.

Can You Answer This? Name something about yourself that you are proud of.

We all have wonderful gifts and personality traits that are unique. Can you name something about yourself that you are proud of? Did you graduate at the top of your class? Maybe you won a medal in gymnastics. You are always the person people confide in because you are a good listener. Generosity may be your thing and you have a big heart.

Name the thing that you are most proud of and feel good about. Don’t be shy. It is healthy to toot your own horn and big yourself up; every so often. Give yourself some flowers because if you don’t, who will? Right?

Celebrate you, feel good about yourself.

We have different aspirations in life so no matter if you think it is a small thing, pat yourself on the back, hug yourself. You deserve it and do not diminish your accomplishments in life. If you purchased your first home; big yourself up. If you started your own business, kudos! The new book you published; well done!! Celebrate yourself. If not today, when?

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Peace, Love and Harmony

Keep your minds and hearts open for the united states, israel, ukraine and hawaii.

The devastation happening in all parts of the world is heavy. I ask that you keep your hearts, mind and prayers up for everyone affected by the recent and ongoing atrocities against mankind.

It is a time for healing. We need peace, love and harmony.

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Before Spilling the Tea, Uplift Me

Before Spilling the Tea, Uplift Me

Spilling the tea requires no skill
It's just gossip at its best
Before you take me on this downward hill
Let me kick back and rest

The tea is a slippery slope
I can drink it black, herbal or with milk
After it goes down my throat, I'm able to cope
With the trolls and their ilk

Tea is supposed to relax and soothe
Use it to uplift the spirit and drown out the ugly
It's not meant to browbeat and bruise
Sip, sit back, kick up the heels and get snugly

Before spilling the tea, uplift me

---O'Nika McGill---

Image credit: Joni Ludlow on Unsplash

Before Spilling the Tea, Uplift Me is written in response to Sadje’s prompt.

http://lifeafter50forwomen.com/2023/09/18/what-do-you-see-204-september-18-2023/: Before Spilling the Tea, Uplift Me
Categories
Words of Wisdom

Message of Motivation

Instead of saying or believing,

“I can’t do it.”

Try saying, “I can’t do it yet!“

Categories
Topic Words of Wisdom

Quote of the Day-Change

“In the waves of change, we find our true direction.”

— Author Unknown

The one thing that we can always count on in life is change. It is inevitable. No way to escape or ignore it. Opportunity presents itself in those waves of change. We can adapt to it and make the best of it, or we can use it to find a new direction. Unfolding discoveries about life and ourselves will afford us the chance to learn what we may not have otherwise known.

Image credit: Pexels on Pixabay.

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Diversity Topic

Hispanic Heritage Month dos mil veintitrés

Hispanic Heritage Month September 15-October 15

Late September into early October is the time of year for recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month. The Latino and Hispanic American community has made many contributions for the betterment of America. Originally, it started out as a week-long celebration in 1968. Two decades later it became a month-long celebration, declared by President Ronald Reagan.

The reason Hispanic Heritage Month starts in the middle of September, is because it coincides with independence of countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile and others.

We can see the added value in education, music, food, and the entertainment industry. The contributions by the Hispanic and Latino culture go hand-in-hand with the success of America.

This post was originally published in September 2022 on Inspire By O’Nika

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Diversity Topic Words of Wisdom

World Afro Day

September 15th is World Afro Day. Embrace those curls and natural hair. Let your coils, twists, braids, locks and afro shine. Wear your style proudly. Natural hair has a story and it is not just about the aesthetics. Although, it doesn’t hurt. It’s about much more. Think culture and history.

Black people and some people of mixed-race who wear their natural hair have faced discrimination because of their hair texture. Michelle De Leon started World Afro Day back in 2017. It is a cause to raise awareness and to educate about afro-centric hair. Society has instilled shame on people who have kinky or tight curly hair. It has long been a thing that if you had “textured” hair that you should implement some kind of straightening. Methods such as using a hot comb to straighten hair, or applying chemicals like Vigorol liquid, and relaxers are used.

These methods are harmful because there is risk of burning the scalp and skin. Not to mention, the long-term effects of the chemicals in these straightening products. Some people felt like they had to conform to societal pressures in order to get hired for a job. Also, to feel accepted.

Women from some Hispanic cultures, like the Dominican Republic also are stigmatized for having curly hair. They have faced pressures to have bone straight hair; hence the blow out styles. These blow outs use excessive heat which can have lasting damage to hair.

On World Afro Day, show your pride for afro hair. Post pictures on social media or share your hair experiences with others. The more people who understand about the afro hair culture the more will accept and embrace it. Rock those afro puffs, cornrows, box braids, afro or whatever style you wish! Because you can!

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Info Topic

Simple Time Saving Tips

Running behind in the morning?

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
  • Iron or steam clothes for work the night before. Include shoes and any accessories. Getting out the door will be much easier when you already have these simple steps done. You don’t have to waste time looking for anything, it is already laid out.
  • Prepare your lunch the night before. Put your lunch in the bowl with anything else you need in the fridge overnight. In the morning just grab the already prepared portion and add anything else you want and go. Easy right?!

Feeling tired after work?

  • When you get home, before starting your home job, take a quick shower. You will get a burst of energy and be better equipped to handle your home obligations. You will have a refreshed mind to check homework, cook, and/or whatever other chores need to be done.

Need more time during the weekends?

  • Break up laundry duty by doing a load or two midweek. This way, when the weekend is here you will have some laundry done and have extra time to spare for more fun activities. If you are feeling really industrious, do one load a day and you may be finished with laundry by the time the weekend is here.
  • Going to the supermarket? Prepare a list before walking out the door. (I know this is old school). It is very helpful because you don’t forget to pick up certain items and you only get what you need. It saves time also from walking down each single aisle looking for items. On the other hand, order your groceries online. All you do is submit the order and drive to the store and have the items loaded in your vehicle. No fuss.

I hope these simple time saving tips can make your life easier. If you have some tips that you use, please share.

Thanks again for stopping by.

Ways To Save On Gas
Gas Saving Tips

Categories
Self Awareness Topic Words of Wisdom

The Door is Open. Why Don’t You Come?

The Door is Open. Why Don’t You Come?

Sunday; a day of rest
Come dressed in your Sunday best
The doors of the church are open
Walking through the door, appreciation of token

Monday, starts the work week
Get your body and mind in gear
Walk through the door smiling
Awaiting life lessons are near

Tuesday, one workday down
Come to yoga class or meditation
The exercise will release any trepidation
about the upcoming week ahead

Wednesday, mid-week is here
Unload your cares on me
Free your body and mind
Come and talk it out

Thursday, one day away from the weekend
Tidy up any closet clutter
Bag up those old clothes
Take them to the donation center

Friday, well what else is there to say
The weekend has arrived
Come over for cocktails
We can talk and just vibe

Saturday. Thought you would never show up
Come in, take a minute to reflect
Spiritual, work, body and mental health
Aspects of cleansing and socialization 

Just remember, the door is open.
Why don't you come?


The door is open. Why don't you come was first published on Inspire By O'Nika and written in response to Sadje's prompt.  https://lifeafter50forwomen.com/2023/08/14/what-do-you-see-199-august-14-2023/

Image credit; Simon Berger @ Unsplash