Getting an education is something that most people strive for. It helps us in life to advance our learning and get a degree in a specialized area of interest. Both short and long term programs are available. You can taylor it to fit your lifestyle. Obtaining a degree will definitely boost your income, give you bragging rights and open up professional opportunities.
The question remains about how to pay for this education. No matter if you choose to attend a community college or Ivy League school, they all cost something. Sure, you can apply for grants and obtain loans to help with funding.
Some people invest 4 or more years in these institutes of higher learning and spend twice that time repaying those loans. To only discover, after completing their studies, they cannot find jobs in their area of study. Tuition is only increasing. Who stands to gain from this: the colleges.
Are these schools ripping people off? The short answer is, yes.
Don’t get me wrong, discouraging people from furthering their education is not what I am suggesting. I’m just saying that some of these schools charge astronomical amounts of money and students end up paying off loans for years after their schooling is finished. What kind of reward is that.
What do you say to someone who wants to pursue a degree program or a trade? Do you encourage them to go for their dreams or do you caution them to pursue other avenues?
Career opportunities may be limited without a degree. On the other hand, there are people who do very well financially, and they have not gone to college. Are institutes of higher learning a racket? It is possible to be successful without attending college and make a good living.
Let’s go find someone to play Duck, duck goose or jump rope. Teddy, we are almost there. Just down the road we should be able to find someone to play Hide and Seek with. I guess we can’t play Hopscotch or Double Dutch, I don’t see any concrete. Oh, I know, let’s play Mother May I? Teddy, where is everyone? I guess they are all indoors sitting in front of their video games and on their cell phones. Who do we have to play with now? Oh well, I guess it’s just you and me Teddy.
November, or the eleventh month is upon us. We only have one more month before the year 2024. Where does the time go? Speaking of time, we are gaining an extra hour this month for most of the states. The time is nearing to cast your votes for election day. Later this month people will celebrate Thanksgiving. Also, discover a new hip hop artist this month in honor of National Hip Hop month. International Men’s Day is this month too, so celebrate the men in your life. Black Marketers Day is also happening this month.
Nov 5
Daylight Savings Time Ends
It is time to gain an extra hour of sleep. That also means we have to say, goodbye to all the sunlight. Set your clock back an hour. If by chance you forget, you won’t have to worry about being late.
Nov 7-Election Day Cast your vote on election day. Check out what’s on the ballot in your state and local area.
Nov 16- National Black Marketers Day The focus of November 16 is to bring the Black community for marketing together. Networking and forming positive relationships around marketing industries occurs during this time. If you are interested in supporting the cause, check out events in your local area.
Nov 19-International Men’s Day Celebrate the positive men around the world. Even though men need to be celebrated every day, today is set aside especially for this important purpose. Oftentimes, the father’s, brothers, sons and nephews do not get the recognition they deserve. Being such important parts of life and the community, take the time to do something special to recognize the men in your life.
—–Theme for 2023-International Men’s Day
The theme for 2023 is Zero Male Suicide. A higher incidence of suicide by men compared to women is a reality. Partly because men are less likely to seek help for mental health concerns. If you see a man is struggling with depression, let him know where to get support. Let him know that you are there for him.
Nov 23-Thanksgiving What are you thankful for? Thanksgiving is when most people get together with family and have a big feast. Spending the day watching sports, playing cards and/or family games. Listening to music and whatever your family traditions are. Enjoy the day and count your blessings. Volunteering your time at a local shelter or food pantry is also a way to show your appreciation and gratitude for the blessings in life.
Public Enemy & LL Cool J vinyl records
National Hip Hop History Month– In November we celebrate Hip Hop. This genre of music has deep and rooted history and has been around for years. Clothing, culture and art have all been influenced by Hip Hop. For those of us who have grown up listening to it, we have a deeper appreciation and fondness for it. Who is your favorite Hip Hop artist?
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.
Strength of a Black Woman. The Curse and the Gift.
At a very young age Black girls are taught to be strong. They are also surrounded by examples of this strength. Growing up and watching your sisters, aunties, mother, cousins, etc. holding it down, you get a sense of what it means to be strong. The strength of a Black woman is both a curse and a gift.
At times, this can be crippling when you are struggling with something and need to lean on someone for help. In those moments when we are vulnerable, we were taught not to show it. Just do what you have to do and not let anyone on the outside see that vulnerability.
I want to be clear that when I am talking about the strength of a Black woman it is not to exclude anyone. Simply, that I am speaking from my point of view and experience. I stand in solidarity with all women. My point of view is being told with the utmost respect. However, I cannot speak to the challenges and/or triumphs that other women face. Women of all races experience struggle and face discrimination for different reasons. I am speaking from my reality.
Strength of a Black Woman. The Gift
Whether or not you witness strong Black women, life makes you strong. The circumstances in life force you to get it together. No time for crying, no time for thinking about it. Just time to do it! The gift of being a strong Black woman comes at a price though. The gift of strength is what makes you smile when you have conquered those hard knock life moments.
Being blessed enough to be able to bear children is a gift. One that some women take for granted. The birth of a child requires bodily strength. Of course, there are amazing drugs to take off the edge. Also, it requires a certain mental strength. Now you are responsible for another human. You have to nurture and care for the individual that you have carried for all these months. Breastfeeding, waking up at night, school activities, monetary responsibilities, keeping the child safe.
The strength takes over when you only had 2 hours of sleep and its now time to get up for work. Feeding times when your nipple is sore from feeding. Getting up to warm a bottle of formula and preparing, just when your head hit the pillow. Consoling your child when they had a bad day at school. Providing groceries and wondering how to stretch the dollar when rent is due. Strength is also that thing we have on our side when the father of your child is absent, for whatever reason. In those instances, we are the sole provider and have to hold things together. Single motherhood is a thing and that’s when strength plays a big part.
Inner strength is what gets you out of the bed in the morning. Strength makes you power through when you are not feeling well. It is what makes you show up to a minimum wage job. Inner strength keeps you going when you feel like giving up. Being strong is what allows you to deal with less-than-ideal situations. It is what lets you tackle life head on, with no hesitation. Strength is what makes you say, “no” to things that do not serve you.
Strength of a Black Woman. The Curse
Being strong is good but at times, it can be bad. It is the same strength that tricks your mind into thinking that you have to do it alone. You are not allowed to seek assistance. When you show up as a strong woman, sometimes people think you can do it all. They judge you and do not think that you need help.
Health concerns get ignored, even when they are legitimate concerns. Healthcare has not been kind to Black women. We know our bodies and know when something is wrong. At times when we take those concerns to a professional, we are made to feel like the problem is non-existent or is not a concern at all. The “brush-off” is what I call it.
In situations where we do reach out for assistance, we hesitate for fear of being judged. Other times, people see that strength and use it to their advantage. Meaning, they figure we can deal with or handle a situation, therefore do not step in to help when it is warranted. There is this unspoken expectation for us to do certain things, no matter what.
What does it all mean?
Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels
Use the gift of strength in a way that inspires people, and they see themselves when they see you.
Being strong means its ok to show your feminine, softer side. Without apologies.
Strength allows us to love others and show compassion.
Strength does not mean to behave like a man or speak like one.
Strength is what you have inside that no one can see or touch. It just shines through you.
Strong Black women need love, support, protection and understanding too.
Strength is not a show of arrogance but one of conviction.
Know that you do not have to show your feminine physical parts to be noticed or seen.
A strong Black woman knows that it is ok to be vulnerable without feelings of shame/abashment.
So, you see, the strength of a Black woman is a gift and a curse. It comes with a lot of responsibility. Also, it comes with boundless rewards. Cultivate that strength and power and it will be more of a gift than a curse.
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?
Should professional athletes be on the hook for answering pre and post -game questions by the media? Should they be obligated to constant scrutiny by the public? Yes, is the answer if they are fulfilling a contractual agreement. After all, it’s what they signed up for. Even with that, does the public expect them to conduct speaking engagements, etc.
Do athletes have a safety medium to keep their mental health intact? It seems like they have cameras and mics in their faces, no matter where they go. They can’t even use the facilities without a camera in their mug. I know it sounds funny, but I can’t imagine not having a single moment of peace.
Yes, fans love them and want to see them perform at sporting events. Does that mean the film crew and news outlets have to follow them to the bathroom too?? They go in and as soon as they come out; smile you’re on candid camera!! Wow!
So, the question is whether or not they should be allowed any protection of their mental health and live their private lives or are they obligated to the constant performing, both on and off the court, field, ice, etc.? What do you say? Share your thoughts on the subject.
A few points to help us get rid of unhealthy, useless energy in our lives. The emotional baggage that weighs us down. Time to release the weight.
Holding Grudges
We have all done this at one time or another. Admit it. The thing about grudges is that it keeps us stuck in that moment, the past. No one is suggesting not to get upset or angry. Yes, get angry and/or upset about the situation or person. Have your moment and then release it. The longer you hold that grudge it keeps you stuck in the past. Think about this; holding a grudge does not change that event. Let the past be the past. Letting go of the past frees you up and allows you to live in the here and now. Also, while you are still holding that grudge, the person or persons who wronged you has already forgotten about it and are living their lives. Let it go!
Worrying
It is ok to worry sometimes. We are human and have emotions. The problem with worrying is that it can weigh you down. When the worrying disrupts your normal life and everyday activity, it is time to reassess. Excessive worrying will not change the outcome. It is undue stress that no one wants or needs. Worrying will take over your daily thoughts and activities, if we are not aware of it. Worrying in excess keeps us from important things and it is a time waster.
Being Hard on Yourself
We all strive to better ourselves. That is always helpful and healthy. The thing to remember is that we cannot be everything. Let’s focus on the positive attributes and accomplishments. Expound on those. Develop those. Do not, I repeat, do not dwell on certain things that we are not so good at. It does nothing to uplift our spirit. We all have specific gifts. For example, if you are a great dancer but cannot hold a tune and have a horrible singing voice. It’s ok. Don’t beat yourself up about it. The skills you have are the ones to develop.
Toxic Environment
This one can be hard to get away from. Remember, we cannot control other people and their actions. But we can control ourselves. and our behavior. Do not give negativity the energy to reside in your heart or on your mind. Re-focus or concentrate on positive things. When people try to suck you into a situation or conversation that you are not interested in, just walk away or simply tell them that you do not want to be a part of the conversation.
Release the weight. We have enough to worry about in everyday life. The stressors of life are enough to juggle. Free your mind. Embrace the things that bring joy into your life.
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.
A part of the fun on Halloween is dressing up. What is your favorite Halloween costume? Name a costume that you have worn, and it was your favorite. It can be one that you wore during your childhood years or as an adult. You only get one day to dress up and no one is going to judge. One of the things I like is to see all the different and cute costumes that the kids wear.
Some people go all out and spend a lot of money for a costume. The options are endless. You can wear something that you already have at home or mix it up with a purchase. Some people like to just use face paint and some like the whole-body outfit. Maybe, you don’t believe in Halloween at all. Do you feel that dressing up is just for kids?
What do you like to wear on Halloween? Do you like scary costumes or cartoon characters? You can create other costumes like a witch, nurse or even an animal. I have two personal favorites. One year I was a bag lady, and the other favorite was when I dressed up like Elvira. These were both two costumes I wore as an adult. Good times were had in both of these costumes.
Can you answer this? What is your favorite Halloween costume?
It’s October 2023. Time for the trees to shed its leaves. October is also the season of Pumpkin flavors. Cooler days are ahead, grab those jackets. Fall leaves bring in October, but what else is in store? Read on to see more about October.
Breast Cancer affects many people. Men and women, alike. The month of October give us the chance to support those with breast cancer. We can use this time to educate ourselves about this medical condition, learn about prevention and screening. Share with our loved ones what we know and have learned. Display a pink ribbon to show your solidarity and support for breast cancer survivors and their families.
October 6- National Plus Size Appreciation Day
Does size really matter? People are people and on October 6, every year we celebrate plus size. If you wear a plus size, you need to know that you are still beautiful and just as valuable. Feel confident in your skin. The size you wear does not dictate who you are and how far you can go in life. All body types are beautiful. Today and every day, embrace your body type and smile. Look at yourself and take a moment to admire and love your body and all its curves. Love on yourself and give yourself a hug. You deserve it!
October 17 Black Poetry Day
This day is all about literature written by black people and about black culture. Discover the works of black authors by reading literature or poems by an author that you have not heard of. Different points of view will help you decide on the style of poem, stories and/or literature that speaks most to you. If you are not into reading, spoken word is another form to explore. No matter what race you are there are stories and experiences that you will love, can relate to or learn from.
Did you know? Gwendolyn Brooks was the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Annie Allen.
October 18- World Menopause Day/World Menopause Month
Every woman will reach this monumental stage of life called menopause. The experience will not be the same for every woman but there are some changes that happen. A woman who is menopausal will undergo both mental and physical changes. See, It’s Hot in Here for more insight. If you are lucky, these changes will be mild. Some of the common bodily changes you will experience can include hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain and sleep disturbance. Mood swings may also occur. Please seek help from your medical doctor for any concerning and/or severe changes. There are options to help alleviate symptoms. Check out the International Menopause Society on the web, the site has useful information.
Excite your taste buds with some chocolate. Make a Chocolate cake or have some candy bars. Whatever your flavor; enjoy! Try a new Chocolate dessert or try a new homemade recipe. You can’t go wrong with Chocolate. You can add it to ice cream, make S’mores, dip your Strawberries in it, drizzle it on your milk shake. The possibilities are endless.
Oct 16-20- National School Bus Safety Week
Keep children safe. When a school bus is stopped, with red lights flashing and the stop sign open, stop your car! It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus! Children are either exiting or boarding the bus at this time. They may be on the opposite side of the street and need to cross in front of your car. Get off your phones, stop looking in the mirror, put the breakfast biscuit away, put down the coffee and whatever else you are doing.
October 31- H🎃lloween
The last day of the month is Halloween. If you celebrate this day, remember to be safe. If you are trick or treating, go in a group. Wear some light or reflective clothing, to easily be seen when it gets dark. Check the treat bags before letting kids have any of the goodies. Don’t forget to wear your favorite Halloween costume. You can dress up and be whoever you want to be for the day. Have fun with it.
Urban renewal on display
Brick and Mortar decay
Shiny material erected
Up, up and away
Brick and mortar are sturdy
Capable of withstanding
Winds, hurricanes and the dirty
All except, rebranding
Shiny material being built up
Adjacent to brick foundations
Once thriving now obscure
Real estate moguls on the come-up
Concrete jungles disappearing
New structures and engineering
Urban renewal on display
Scores of people and their lives astray
Working people, families now dispersed
Throughout the city, worries mount
On deaf ears their cries fall, unrehearsed
The times this has happened; too many to count
Real estate moguls, investors and the like
Padding their pockets and feeling delight
Meanwhile everyday people are being discarded
Like old shoes when they should be safeguarded
The same people running the ship
Keeping the business afloat
While you sit back on your yacht or big boat
So, who is displaying true stewardship?
Image credit: Joshua Kettle on Unsplash
Urban Renewal on Display was written in response to the picture prompt by Sadje for What Do You See?
Politics is not my thing; but the United States is. What I mean is that I am no political buff but since I do live in the US, I take note of the changing times. The land of the free and the home of the brave. The land of plentiful opportunity. The United States is such a progressive place. A place where many immigrate to for a better life.
In the years lately, I find myself scratching my head wondering why this country continues to drown in debt, homelessness is growing, housing costs are high. What about Veterans? What do they get after fighting for the people? The country is guided by old principles that are centuries old.
Fair living wages are an issue. People are striking in the auto industry and writers as well. It is a domino effect and all trickles down to affect everyone in the end. If you think for a second that it will not affect you too, wake up!
The United States of America has three requirements to be president. You must be at least 35 years of age, must be a natural born citizen of the United States, and have resided in the US for 14 years. I’m sure there are other rules to hold this seat but those are some of the basics.
Running the United States
Three points to review
Must be at least 35 years of age. Yes, this is reasonable. On the other side of things, there should be a cut off age. As humans, when we age, certain things start to decline. Health, cognitive function, etc. The older we are the less apt we will be to make certain decisions and perform certain tasks.
It’s time to shake things up and revise these rules. At the time of inauguration, Barack Obama was 47 years of age, Donald Trump was 70 years of age and the current POTUS, Joe Biden was 78. The median age should fall somewhere between 50-55 years old.
Must be a natural born citizen of the United States. Yes. Absolutely. A criteria that should be in place. It makes sense.
Must have been a resident of the United States for 14 years. Again, yes good rule. It makes sense for someone making decisions for and about the country to have lived here for over a decade. At least they will have some idea of what goes on and how things are done. They can identify the areas and opportunity for change.
Three points to consider
Age Limit. As I mentioned earlier, should there be an age limit due to the decline in functions as we age. Yes, the world is continually being ruled by older and older people. We need some middle ground with younger people, while maintaining the minimum age of 35 years.
Legal trouble. Should there be a rule about certain legal troubles? If the person in office is charged with a crime and later found guilty; are they still allowed to hold the seat of president?
Financial Crisis. How does the US run up such a tab and owe astronomical amounts of money. The trillions…We, as a country are in debt but manage to help other countries. How does that work? It’s always good to have ally countries, yes. When is the United States going to lower its debt?
Running the United States needs an overhaul. If we continually rely on antiquated principles and laws, will we ever progress? The world is changing constantly, as such, some of the laws need to be re-written and updated. The way of life centuries ago, is not the same as life today.
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.
