Losses.
As I sit up, awakened by my own mind at five-something in the morning, I think “I thought these days were over.” Progress still. At least it’s not three or four. No matter how many positive vibes and how much good energy I conjure, everything isn’t always going to be “that.” There has to be balance. Duality. Two sides to the coin. And no matter … Continue reading Losses.
Wins.
win/win/verb be successful or victorious in (a contest or conflict); acquire or secure as a result of a contest, conflict, bet, or other endeavor. Nelson Mandela once said, “I never lose. I either win or I learn.” Every day, it gets easier for me to relate. It takes humility, but I get it. I speak the following affirmation to myself often now – grow through it … Continue reading Wins.
Gratitude
grat·i·tude/ˈɡradəˌt(y)o͞od/nounthe quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. I had gotten to be quite spoiled. It’s a state of being I’m familiar with. As an only child, I’ve had my share of “not having to share,” ease, and everything being about me. Then the hard times came. And I got older. Old enough where I could make my own … Continue reading Gratitude
To Mimi: Reflections from My Inaugural Mother’s Day
5/13/15 Dear Mila, A few days ago, I celebrated my first Mother’s Day. I celebrated you and all the ways you have changed my life. The time we spent as one is forever imprinted on my mind. That you are now here, in my arms, amazes me. It seems like just a few weeks ago, I was praying for your safe delivery and good health, tearfully … Continue reading To Mimi: Reflections from My Inaugural Mother’s Day
Mood-Boosting Music, Part II: Then
If there is anything I love more than a new song to groove to, it’s an old song to groove to. I am all about throwback jams. The music of “now” has its flare but it can’t hold a candle to the music of my youth. So, here it is – my blast from the past that will always last. I hope it causes the … Continue reading Mood-Boosting Music, Part II: Then
Mood-Boosting Music, Part I: Now
I’m a busy educator and entrepreneur with a complicated mind. It’s a heavy combination. Thankfully, music is my therapy, and there are certain songs that boost my mood whenever I hear them. Here are some current songs that get me going. Hopefully, they’ll inspire you to be giddy, too. Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke, Pharrell, and T.I. This is my FAVORITE song of now (and perhaps … Continue reading Mood-Boosting Music, Part I: Now
Roles Redefined
I believe in roles — I’m just not a huge fan of rigid, gender-based ones (especially in relationships). Someone argued to me that these roles are nature. No, having a penis or a vagina is nature. What we learn about what people with those parts are able to/should do is nurture. Little girls can play basketball and boys can be gymnasts. If my man is … Continue reading Roles Redefined
Golden Rule Reciprocity
I am a servant. I serve my students the best way I know how every day. I bring energy, love and knowledge. I offer these things freely, without condition or expectation of much in return. Sometimes, it’s a challenging role because all of my students aren’t open to these things, all the time. Being rebuffed can hurt and is an uncomfortable feeling, but with my … Continue reading Golden Rule Reciprocity
To Thy Own Self Be True
I am a self-described people-pleaser. I love to make people feel happy, comfortable and proud. Contrary to what reality TV shows tell you, these aren’t bad things. That is to say, there is nothing cool about going out of your way to piss people off and constantly feel the need to make the point “I’m grown, so I’ll do whatever I want.” No, you don’t … Continue reading To Thy Own Self Be True
Shot Down
Yesterday during my morning commute, Russ Parr’s voice came through the radio, announcing that the Senate had failed to pass a bipartisan bill that would require background checks for would-be gun owners. The purpose of the bill is basically to prevent convicted felons and mentally ill persons from getting their hands on firearms. Of course, lobbying groups such as the NRA spun the bill to … Continue reading Shot Down
