Thought of the Day
“Hate is too great a burden to bear. Hate injures the hater more than the hated. “-Coretta Scott King
Life is so precious. Why live with hatred in your heart?!
Stay well and be blessed
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Tag: society
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Where Are You From?
Moving from one state to another is something that we see often. There are many cities and places in the world where it is a melting pot of people from different areas who have set up shop and made a home away from home. A person who moves to another place is referred to as a transplant.
How much time should pass before you consider yourself from the new area? I hear differing opinions on this. Some people say if you are living in a new state for 5 or more years, you are from that place. Some say 7 years or more. I have even heard less time than that. 
What do you say? For me personally, I will always say my original place of origin is where I am from. What about you? Do you adopt the new location and cite that place as the answer to the question,, "where are you from?". Tell me your side of the story. Please share how you feel about the subject.
As always, stay well and be blessed
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Corner Store Bodega
The door to the bodega
Opens with lyrics
Aguanilè
Aguanilè, mai mai
Feeling like you stepped right onto an island
The groove moving up your spine
Bop your head move your feet
Lips turning upward forming a smile
Let me get a Ham with American cheese
And a buttered roll on a Kaiser bun
A grape strawberry Mistic, a quarter water too
Aguanilé
Aguanilé, mai mai
Waiting for your meat to be cut
The lyrics fill the air
You start to dance, salsa or two step
You get to the front to pay
Bum at the counter beggin’, “let me get two loosies man!”
In a hurry to get back, you get mad
Then you hear
Aguanilé
Aguanilé, mai mai
Forgetting the unfolding drama
You move your feet, your hips, your butt
While waiting you go to the lottery case
Slipping a piece of paper to the cashier, play these pick 3 numbers
Oh and a pack of watermelon, grape and apple Now and Laters
Aguanilé
Aguanilé, mai mai
The door to the bodega
Closes behind you
Ears flooded with police sirens
Horns blowing
Arguments and expletives
Feeling like you stepped back into a war
As always, thank you for reading!
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Theoretically Speaking of Morbid Curiosity
Theoretically Speaking of Morbid Curiosity
Theoretically speaking, you wonder if
Happenstance has come to the forefront
Eliciting answers about this thing
Offering no more cues than when it began
Responding with conjecture, whispering, gossip
Entertaining the masses with your theory
Trying not to let others around you
In on the fact that you want to know
Curiosity killed the cat
And still, you don't stop
Letting your mind drift about the situation
Learning that this is someone else's reality
Yearning for truth about today's morbid curiosity
Theoretically Speaking of Morbid Curiosity is written in response to the word prompt by Sammi Cox.
Image by Alexandra_Koch from Pixabay
PSA- Who are “They”? asks the questions about how society puts a certain demographic of people in the same group. The talk in this post is not my usual content but I felt the need to speak on this topic. I have been seeing and hearing people on various platforms discussing this, and it piqued my interest.
Are black men being judged unfairly? Are they being crucified by public opinion? What do you think? Is there some magical potion or spell on black men being cast by “They”? Just curious about your thoughts on the subject. Please share your perspective.
As always, thank you for watching! 
Unglue and Unsew
The article today, titled The Unveiling of You. No More Thread, No More Glue is strictly for women who are frustrated in the dating game. They are looking to make a romantic connection but are feeling left out. The ones who feel like they should receive all the attention. The women who feel that they are attractive but are being passed over for simple, plain looking women who do not measure up, in their opinion. Let me explain.
If you are trying to make a meaningful connection, one of the things to do is to distinguish yourself from everyone else. Enhancements we add to our overall look can determine whether we blend in or stand out in the crowd. Wondering why men pass right by you? It might be because you look exactly the same as every other woman in the room. Present yourself in a way that is different from the others.
Try surveying the room and see if you are looking at the same image as yourself, do you wonder why? Everyone in the room is wearing the same style weave or wig, layers and layers of makeup, long false eyelashes, extra-long fingernails and 5 inches of “baby hair” or edges and plumped-up lips. Before anyone gets upset; there is nothing wrong with wearing wigs/weave/hair extensions.
Unglue and unsew and see what you discover. Just try it. You might just love who that person is underneath the false eyelashes, weave, extra-long fingernails, layers of makeup and exaggerated plumped lips. Do you even recognize her anymore. Don’t get me wrong, there is no crime in looking good and feeling good about yourself. All I am saying is when is it too much. Do you spend a small fortune on all the enhancements to still be lonely.
Frustrated and Pretty
Women who refer to themselves as “pretty” are pretty frustrated. Again, I am only addressing the ones who are in the dating game. Despite the things they do, the pretty women feel like the simple, basic looking women are the ones receiving the attention. Possible reasons below may reveal the barrier to meeting that special someone. Think about the things below:
Frame of Mind
Do you have the attitude that you are better than everyone else in the room? If you are attending an event and turn your nose up at everyone else, because you think you are the best looking one there…. Guess again. No one is discounting the fact that you may be attractive, but an attitude like that makes you appear ugly to others. Remember, every person has something unique to offer. Just because you are attractive, does not mean that every man will automatically approach you. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Posture
Are you approachable? Are your face and lips twisted? Do you have your arms folded? Is your back turned? Do you look friendly and smiling? Are you slouching? Body language is an important cue that we sometimes miss and do not think about. If you look like you do not want to be bothered and have a mean look on your face, who will step to you? Think about it for a second. If men are passing you by and going over to other women, take a moment and check your body language and posture.
Set Yourself Apart
Unglue and unsew, remove the false eyelashes and wear your nails short to medium length. Do away with the long edges/baby hair and use lip wear that does not contain plumping ingredients. Why blend in with the same look as everyone else? Do something different so that you do not look like everyone in the place. You would be surprised at how much money and time you can save from paying for that expensive weave and sitting in the salon for hours on end. There are so many styles you can do with your natural hair, no matter how short or long it is. You might even like your natural hair much better.
Worldly
Are you materialistic? Do you don designer apparel from head to toe? The purse cost $800, shoes $250, outfit $400. If you present as someone who is donned in all designer apparel, men may shy away from you. The reason is that they see their pockets getting empty already. Before they speak a word, they know they are going to be broke. You may not be materialistic, but strangers do not know this. The man may see this and think that you are going to drain his money. The saying, ‘not to judge a book by its cover’ comes to mind. Although it is not fair, it happens all the time.
New Things
Give someone other than your usual type a chance. If the type you normally go for approaches you, so be it. Carry on a conversation it doesn’t hurt. Alternatively, try giving the men you normally do not go for a chance. Don’t shoot them down before they can finish the first sentence. You might be surprised at how much you have in common with him and what a deep connection the two of you share together.
Outlook
Try an experiment for two weeks or a month. Unsew and unglue. Reveal the person underneath all the extra stuff. See if any of these changes make a difference in how you feel and/or improve your chances of making that special connection that you are seeking. The simple, plain looking women are looking for that special connection the same as you. Do not be mad at their approach. Find what works best for you.
Full disclosure: I can speak to this because I was guilty of some of these things in the past. I have either experienced these first-hand or have observed these behaviors. And before anyone jumps to conclusions, there is nothing wrong with wigs/weave. I too have wigs and have had my hair braided with added hair. No judgement. The information contained here is to illustrate a point.
Love yourself and all that you are. If you don’t who else will? 
Thank you for reading!
Indecent Exposure in the House of Worship
How Did We Get Here
How did we get to the point of indecent exposure in the house of worship? It never used to be this way but as you can see, “times done changed”. But on a serious note, churchgoers should not be exposed to this lack of consideration. We have elderly people attending church and families with small children. Why does Mom have to cover her child’s eyes because a woman is walking down the aisle, half dressed.
We need someone at the door to check for appropriate attire before being allowed admission. Simply to ask people to cover up. I’m not suggesting coming in with a turtleneck sweater and a dress or skirt that is as long as your ankles. All I am saying is to show less skin and cleavage, and not have on see through or tight-fitting clothing.
Indecent Exposure
People attend church services for various reasons, it is plausible to think it is mainly to hear the word, be filled with the spirit, receive their blessing, give tithes/offerings and to be a blessing to others. Right? In some cases, it is true. Some of us have witnessed people using church as a meeting place. A place to meet a romantic partner. Well, ok I can see the appeal of that. Some men feel that good wholesome women can be found at church. Conversely, women feel that they can find a good husband. Yes, this is very possible.
The only caveat is that some women show up at service dressed provocatively, attracting attention. But what kind of attention are they seeking? They may come to church in hopes of finding a husband, but the choice of clothing or lack thereof may deter those would-be husbands. Going about it in this way may have the reverse outcome. Instead, of meeting someone who you can have a long lasting and meaningful relationship with, you may attract the ones only looking for a “good time”, if you get my meaning.
Final Thought
The point I am trying to make is that the house of worship should be free from this kind of behavior. Some of the fashion is down-right disrespectful. If you want to wear tight-fitting and see through clothing and dress in a provocative way, there are plenty of other places for that.
I appreciate you and thank you for reading! 
Please let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment or subscribe to receive new content when it is published.
Image by Vincent Ciro from Pixabay
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Can You Answer This? Is it ok to Complain?
Can You Answer This? Is it ok to Complain?
Is it ok to complain about how things are in the world and your rights, even when you do not bother to get off of social media for an hour to make your voice heard, at a minimum of once every 4 years?
Hmmm, what do you think? I pose this question as it relates to voting. Some people complain about their rights and how they do not have this or that. Also, about how things are in the world. Ok, so I wonder if these same people are making their voices heard. Are they getting out there, at the basic minimum of every 4 years for the presidential election. I am not including any other election like the primaries or local elections. Just the presidential race.
What do you think?
As always, thank you for reading. 
Too Young or Too Old for Marriage
What is the proper age for people to get married? Is there such a thing as too young or too old? Undue pressures of society have us buying into unrealistic expectations. Who is to say at what age you find love. What is your take on the subject? Leave a comment and share your perspective.
As always, thank you for watching. 
Being multi-cultural, where do you fit it?
Being of multiethnic/cultural heritage is great. You get to enjoy the best of it all. However, it can be challenging. Acceptance by your peers may present a problem.
How do you overcome rejection from one or the other culture? Do you try to fit in or just live your life. If you can relate and have experienced rejection of this kind, please share in the comments. Tell us a little about it. Your experience may help someone overcome it and move past it.
Image credit: Simp1e1 on Pixabay
Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15 and ends October 15, 2024. Even though, it is officially a month-long celebration, contributions are felt and made all year long. Many Latino and Hispanic communities feel a sense of honor throughout this special holiday. The timing of NHHM marks dates of independence for several Latino countries.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? If you are not sure what it is all about take some time to research more about it. Afterwards, you can share and spread the word about what you have learned. Use this time to learn Spanish, if you choose to. Check out some local events in your community. There are many ways to celebrate and show support for the Latino and Hispanic communities and all they have done for the betterment of America.
The theme for 2024 is Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together
Let us take our hats off to those who have helped make positive strides in Latin American Countries and all over the world.
Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month
Thank you for reading!
Image by Ray Shrewsberry • from Pixabay
Thick Skin in the Creative Process
Thick skin in the creative process refers to your ability to let certain comments roll off your back. How you manage being judged on your creative work and/or projects. Especially when the comments are unfavorable.
Creative Pursuits
Creating something artful whether it be authoring a book, singing a song or performing a dance and sharing it is putting yourself out there. It is such a rewarding experience. No matter the way it turns out in the end, the sheer experience is life altering. Being in the public eye leaves you open to scrutiny. You will have people who like and support what you do and others who will not. Please understand that everyone will not have the same feelings and/or opinions as you.
I want you to be aware that with those supporters come people on the other end of the spectrum. Both are equally important. The supporters should be appreciated and thanked for their support. Please let them know that you are grateful for their support. For the ones who dislike your creative pursuits, just know that it comes with the territory. You have to take the good with the bad.
Keep your focus on the supporters but also be aware of the ones who are not a fan of your work. The reason is that you can use the unfavorable comments, reviews or thumbs down to your advantage. It may inspire you to add a different element to your next project. Maybe you can take that feedback and incorporate something new into your next book, post, song or art piece. Turn that negative feedback into a positive.
Be Inspired
Please remember that you cannot let those comments get into your head. The moment you do, you are done! Done! Because now the doubt, uncertainty and insecurities come out and you might think about quitting. It can be hurtful because you poured your heart and soul into it and then to have someone say something negative. Wow, what a blow. You know that you worked hard and did your best. Dotted your i’s and crossed your t’s. Rehearsed and proofread. You are satisfied with the end result, only to see that one negative comment/review.
What about the 10 positive ones? Do not forget about those. Focus on those but also keep note of that one because you can use that. Instead use that feedback to your advantage. Be aware of it but do not let it consume you. The love and support received from your work is motivating, it makes you smile and also keeps you on your toes. The universe is waiting for your next installment. The love and support outshine all else.
Think about it this way. You have a child and that’s your baby no matter what. No matter how old our children get, they will always be our baby. You better not say anything bad about our children, right. So, your creative project is similar in that aspect. It’s your baby, you love your baby and put work into it. To only have someone say something negative. Does that mean that you will stop loving your baby? Of course not. You get where I’m going with this?
Summary
Keep creating, keep pushing forward. Remember that the creative process is great, in that it teaches us, and we learn a lot from it. So many good things come out of it. It is therapy for some, hobbies for others, career driven too. No matter the reason, never stop believing in yourself. Continue on and let the thick skin in the creative process be your guiding light.
Thank you for reading 
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Should I Head to the Polls?
Voting season is here. As this election will be coming to a close soon, there was a monumental change in the running. The current president of the United States dropped out of the race for re-election. Consequently, the vice president, has decided to accept the nomination for office. In light of this some people may wonder if they should head to the polls.
Have you ever really stopped to think about the reasons you go to the polling place? Are you someone who thinks, why should I vote? If so, what makes you question the privilege of exercising your vote? Some will say that their one vote does not count and will not matter. If I vote, nothing will change.
Others will say that they vote in every election, it’s just what they do. It’s the American way to vote. It’s my civic duty to go to the polls. Do you feel that by not voting, the entire process will go away, and citizens will no longer be able to vote at all? I’m sure you have heard these sentiments at one time or another.
Numerous reasons will be cited for going to the polls to vote. Why do you vote? Is it a tradition for each election and something you just do. Do you want the free pen, button and sticker that says, “I voted”. Is it that you stand behind a certain candidate and are showing support. Do you cast your vote with the notion that it will make a positive change?
You Decide
It can be said that some people have a better sense of well -being when they participate in the process. Taking advantage of the freedom to vote holds a level of empowerment.
Voting is your way of standing for what you believe in and making your voice heard. The process of voting can positively affect the future of society. While the actual method of the way we hold elections may be flawed there are perks to voting.
I am not asking who you vote for or your political affiliation. I am just posing the question of your reason(s) for heading to the polls. What appeals most to you about the voting process?
As always, thank you for reading.
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Mommy, My Doll Doesn’t Look Like Me
Mommy, My Doll Doesn’t Look Like Me
Growing up and playing with toys, including dolls is a normal thing. It is fun and it encourages children to use their imagination. Then the child says, Mommy, my doll doesn’t look like me. What do you say to this?
Combing the doll’s hair, changing the clothes, playing with the doll house are all a part of the fun. Don’t forget about the voices we used for each doll as we are playing. The tea parties were also a part of playing with dolls.
Does it matter if the doll kids play with are in the child’s likeness? Some would agree that it does matter that the doll have the same hair style/texture, eye color, facial features and color. On the other hand, people say that it does not matter. A doll is a doll, it is just a toy.
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It is matter of your personal preference. Playing with dolls that both look like you and those that don’t have advantages. It demonstrates that there are dolls that are beautiful in all shapes and colors. The child can experience the likeness of dolls and learn to grow an appreciation for people who are different than they are.
Just like other toys teddy bears, balls, action figures, etc. There is no color coding, it is just a toy. So, what happens when your child says, “Mommy, my doll doesn’t look like me”. An experiment was conducted in the 1940s where kids were asked to choose between a black and white doll. Majority of the children selected the white doll. Associating positive attributes for their selection.
Now, in 2024, we have such a wide array of choice when it comes to dolls. Back in those days there weren’t many options to choose from. You played with the one you were given, no matter if you liked it or not. Also, we live in such a digital world now that children no longer widely play with dolls.
Child Development
Children are sponges and soak up what they see and hear. Playing with dolls gives them that social development they need. They have a chance to act out certain life experiences and it helps them grow, whether they play with other children or while playing alone. Dolls give kids the chance to build their vocabularies, social skills and enhances their imaginations.
Playing with dolls that are not in the same likeness can help them build empathy and understanding of those who are not the same as them. Especially, if a child is in a school that lacks diversity or grows up in a neighborhood where everyone is of the same background. Some children alter their dolls to change the eye color, cut the hair or crayon the skin of the dolls. All in an attempt to make the doll look more like them.
Does it Matter?
What do you think? How important is it that your child play with dolls that are in their likeness. Do you think it plays a big role in their identity and social development? As a child growing up, did you face challenges as it relates to choice of the doll you played with? Lots of questions but again it is all a matter of personal preference.
As always, thank you for reading.
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Should Home Schooling be the New Normal?
Should Home Schooling be the New Normal?
School will be back in session soon. Are you a parent considering home schooling your child? With the things happening around the world, it seems rational to think about keeping the kids at home to complete their education.
Home schooling gives parents some autonomy when it comes to what their children are learning. Is it easy? Is it for everyone? Should it be the “new normal”.
Education has changed, post covid 19. Remote learning has been implemented more frequently. Some school systems have moved more towards a hybrid learning experience. Both in-person education and remote learning.
Home schooling may look more appealing to some parents who are concerned for their children’s safety. Safety from violence of other students, teacher-student conflicts, bullying and school shootings. Home schooling may be the best option for some families. Unfortunately, it will not work for everyone.
In the working age and rising inflation, parents need to work full time, outside of the home. With growing violence in schools and some states allowing teachers to carry firearms, poses a lot of risks. As a parent, how would you feel letting your child go to school knowing that the teachers are carrying a firearm?
Benefits of Home Schooling
- Safety from violent acts at school
- More control of what children are learning
- Protection from bullying
- More conducive environment for the child to learn
- Eliminates busing across town for some students
- Flexibility with school and life balance
Home schooling cons
- Lack of social skills for students
- Decreased opportunity to form friendships with their peers
- Limited or no access to extracurricular activities; arts, sports, clubs
What is a parent to do? Parents should not have to contemplate whether or not to send their child to school. Or decide how to plan for their child(ren) to receive very basic education.
On the other side of the coin, a part of the problem is disrespectful children. Respect for authority is gone. Children are so brazen and will challenge an adult without a second thought. Some kids these days are armed with weapons themselves.
Teachers nowadays feel vulnerable and question their personal safety. A possible solution is a less lethal one. Instead of firearms maybe carry a taser. This way teachers and school authorities can defend themselves without deadly consequences. Firearms and schools just are not a good mix.
We cannot protect ourselves or our children from everything. What do you feel is a solution?
As always, thank you for reading. Stay well and be blessed.