When you hear something scurrying about It is so tempting to open the door to investigate Only to discover when you do It is none other but the horned figure
The horned figure who is a chameleon Disguising itself as something other Other than the green-eyed bandit Just lying in wait ready to use their pointer
The pointer to out everyone but themselves When eyes are turned their way They start to retreat and hide away in the shadow Voice drops from 3 octaves down to one
One day they are dressed as a psychic The next as a black belt in karate Wonder what they will be the next time you see them Maybe that same horned figure in dirty crocodile shoes
It can be tempting but don’t answer the door Once the door is open the urge is hard to resist slamming it shut Let the horned figure stay busy trying to get in For they have nothing else to do
What does it mean to be a boss? Excellent! Outstanding! People have their own interpretation of the word. Some people take it to the extreme. Being a boss does not mean that you must be bossy. I know this is confusing. How can you be a boss and not be bossy?
Easy. Being a boss means that you have a level of control and stability. You have control over your circumstances and things that you do in life. You have stability in areas of your life that are important to you. What being a boss does not mean is bossing people around. Be the adjective of a boss and not the verb.
I am speaking to women on this subject. I think the colloquial term of being a boss, has gone too far. People are taking this out of context, and it is starting to have adverse effects. When you take your Boss self and start to do ugly things to people with your words and actions, do not be confused when people steer away from you.
You do not have to be bossy to let people know that you are in control. You do not have to be bossy to prove a point that you got this! That you are your own person. The boss in you will manifest itself. Others notice this and may or may not acknowledge it.
What a boss does
Loves herself
Says no without guilt
Is financially stable
Calls the shots
Has courage to ask for help
What a boss is not and/or does not do
Judgmental
Treat others badly
Talk down to people
Arrogant
Boastful
You can still be a boss, while simultaneously being a mother, wife, and sister. Please remember that you can still be outstanding and excellent without the negative undertones. Do not forget that you can still show your feminine side and call the shots. Stand your ground and be classy about it.
However, it can get lonely when you become too ambitious. A few people may fall out of your life while you are busy being a boss. Check in on people that you might not have seen or spoken to in a while. Remember that everyone needs someone.
Did you talk to yourself today as a reminder of how blessed you are? Tell yourself that no matter what happens you are still here. If you didn’t have the talk yet today, there is still time left.
Women who advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion. That is what Women’s History Month is about in 2024. Women are still having the same centuries old fight. It doesn’t make sense for it to be this way in such progressive times. But are we really living in progressive times?
“You cannot take your freedoms for granted. Just like generations who have come before you, you have to do your part to preserve and protect those freedoms.”
Michelle Obama
Let’s celebrate the women who are and have made a positive impact in the communities. Both local and afar. It takes courage and determination to answer the call to action. Forming comities, rallying together and just speaking on injustices is a great start.
We have women out there who have paved the way for advances we, as a country enjoy. Science, civil rights, film/theater, politics, sports, education, the arts and a plethora of disciplines is where women from all walks of life, have made their mark. Let us celebrate Ava DuVernay, Sally Ride, Serena Williams, Michelle Obama, Susan B. Anthony and a host of others.
Without their activism, and strength to pave the way, we may not have been able to accomplish some of the things we have today. Staying the course and speaking out against inequities against women must continue. We deserve to be included and treated fairly, so let’s not forget the work of those before us and the women who walk with us today on this journey.
“There will be resistance to your ambition, there will be people who say to you, ‘You are out of your lane.’ They are burdened by only having the capacity to see what has always been instead of what can be. “
The overwhelming amount of information is ever increasing. We see the latest, trending news and side with the masses. Or are you one to follow your own mind? Do you see a topic and automatically adopt the views of the masses?
It can be easy to go along with what everyone is saying or believing. At the end of the day, you have to hold your own truth. We get incoming traffic from TV, the internet, radio, people, videos, books and other forms. By “incoming traffic” I mean information.
The Source
Always consider the source. So often I witness people going along, or siding with the masses. Why? Follow your own mind. Rely on what you believe and know. It leads me to wonder if some people do it as a means of fitting in. Being with the “in crowd”. It’s that same “in crowd” that will get you into trouble.
The information we receive is not always aligned with our personal opinion. That is okay, nothing wrong with that. Just consider if you are receiving information from a source who likes to stir things up. Is the source coming from an objective point of view. Is the information being put out there to inform people or create hysteria? Consider the source.
Conversation
If a group of people all agree on a subject, does it make it true? Or is the conversation more interesting when there are differing views?
Having a differing opinion on something does not make you an outcast. It just means that you believe in what you believe in and are not jumping on the bandwagon, with everyone else. Basic conversation may be a reason that people agree on subjects and follow along with the consensus. In some instances, it is okay to join the crowd if it is for conversation’s sake. Do your homework and research things for yourself. Oftentimes, there are bits of missing information.
A group may agree on a subject that you see all over the news, etc. It does not mean that someone else’s truth, is your own. Just because a friend, relative or group of people have a point of view, does not mean that it has to be yours as well. I’m not saying that you should not listen, and value the opinion of others. Yes, of course listen to the views of others but do not take it as your own reality. Especially, if it doesn’t fit. The same way another person feels a certain way, you have your own views and/or opinions. It does not mean that they are right, and you are wrong.
The information age has so much out there in the universe, and it comes at us every day. We can decide to block it out by turning off the news, not getting on the internet or listening to the radio. It then leads some people to feel like they are not informed if they do not have some type of incoming information. You decide how much of it you want to filter.
Staying up to date with all the media is exhausting at times. You hear so much information, then you have to figure out how much of it is true. Words sometimes have a way of swaying people into believing certain things.
A Closer Look
Research, research, research Taking on the truth of others or believing that your fate will be the same as people you know, is not the case. Approach personal situations based on your own circumstances, not those of others. Just like the common phrases that people overuse, what do they really mean? Some people are only repeating it because they hear it all the time.
We may have commonalities in life with people we know, but that does not mean the end result will be the same. We have to remember that we are in control of our behavior and cannot control what others do or say.
How do you decipher information you read or hear? Do you take it at face value, or do you confirm it for yourself? Do you find yourself siding with the masses or following your own mind?
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
“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.
A canopy of protection is a place that most are familiar with and frequent very often. If you don’t recognize it, then you may want to make some adjustments. The canopy of protection is not a place that you invite everyone. It takes special and select people to be allowed to enter. This is a place that you create and set the tone. If anyone dares to defile it, then they must be escorted out. Do not allow anyone to darken, your canopy of protection or cause it to collapse. It is one of the few places where you can truly be you and not have to make any apologies. Be your true self and make it as loud or as peaceful as you want.
Where is your canopy?
Your canopy of protection is anywhere you want it to be. It can be physical or mental. What do I mean? A physical canopy of protection can be a place like your home, the park, a restaurant. The place you sleep at night. Also, it can be a she-shed/man cave. Make it a special place that you go when you want some peace and quiet. A place to be alone with your thoughts.
A mental canopy of protection is when you go to a place; metaphorically, in your mind when things are in chaos. It is when you think of certain things or places in your mind and you stay there for as long as you need or want to. It’s your place of protection from outside forces and elements. To counteract stress, picture or think about more pleasant things, and you are left feeling unbothered.
Who is Allowed?
The answer to this is truly a personal choice. You can let people who are close to you under your canopy. You may only let your family and/or pets in. Some people may be allowed to enter for a short time. Some may be allowed permanent access. Maybe no one is allowed. We all process the elements of life differently and may want the solitude. So, in this case the canopy of protection is a place to be solo. No exceptions.
Why is it needed?
The canopy of protection is necessary for many reasons. The whys will vary from person to person. It is a tool to use when you may feel overwhelmed, sad, stressed, depressed or just in a funk. The canopy of protection is there too because of the times we are faced with a difficult decision.
When do you go there?
During those times of uncertainty, ambiguity, confusion and chaos. Those are the essential times when you go to your canopy of protection. Doing so will usually provide some clarity and/or answers to those daunting questions. You will find that taking a step back and going to your canopy will bring you out in a much healthier and happier state of mind.
Even when you do not come out with a solution, you will be much more peaceful for it. You can come back to a situation with a clear mind and a new, more positive outlook.
