#BreakTheBias

Happy Thursday Everyone. Today is the last day of Women's History Month 2022. We've seen messages all over the news and social media with positive news stories. This year's theme is #BreakTheBias. According to the IWD, the theme means “Whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead. Knowing that bias exists isn’t enough. Action is needed to level the playing field.”

Motivated by the Civil Rights Movement, I took the time to look deeper at these principles for myself. During this pandemic, I have been on the search for deeper meaning as a black woman. Our society needs to change, but I can't do it alone. So what can we do? Here's a list of some actions we can take:

-SPEAK UP AND CHALLENGE BIAS

-ACKNOWLEDGE THE BIAS AROUND YOU

-LIFT UP AND ENCOURAGE THE WOMEN AROUND YOU

-SEEK OUT ALTERNATIVE PERSPECTIVES

-BE BRAVE AND SHARE YOUR OWN EXPERIENCES WITH BIAS

-EDUCATE YOURSELF THROUGH CREDIBLE SOURCES

These are successful practices  that serve to enlighten and empower. With the month coming to a close, we cannot wait until next year to do the work. One look at the evening news with COVID-19 vaccines, boosters and mandates, rampant inflation, public policy failures, hazardous weather conditions, and political posturing. Coupled with increasing aggressions and international conflicts, the time is now. Ask yourself... can't we all just get along? The current administration is working hard to turn things around. Our country is still divided among racial lines. The American People have been silent for too long. There's only one thing they understand and that's power. Since the slave trade, trail of tears, and internment camps, Americans have become more aware of the racial divide that no one is trying to repair. Women continue to suffer under patriarchal systems, glass ceilings and overt sexism. The world is watching and they are not pleased. God is watching and His will shall come to pass.  Please let you light shine. Let your voices be heard. It's time for some action. Stand in your truth and live your power. You matter. Your thoughts matter. This pandemic highlights the urgency of change and policies that wrap around us. Too many lives are at stake to sit on the side and let this continue. As we all strive to live the best life, we must never forget our most vulnerable. Let's finish this chapter and proceed to break the bias off of the rest of our collective lives. Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Stop The Negativity

Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday. The crazy weather disintegrated into an all day rainstorm in Chicago. Usually, rainy days throw off the wifi or the servers. It's easy to lose connection with the outside world when these issues arise. Can you hear me now? I mean, can you access the content that I'm blogging about? Its amazing to have so many platforms and so much technology. What's astonishing is that many families don't have computers, televisions, or electricity. News is still passed by word of mouth rather than researching facts. How else can you explain the deep divisions in our country. It's hard to have a civil conversation with family and friends before politics, entertainment, or other news stories are interjected.  Rumors spread faster than truth as people race to be first......and not wait for the facts. Why can't we all just get along? Because the restraints have come off so that selfishness is the rule and not the exception. People want what they think belongs to them, and deny your rights to pursue the same goals. We need to support each other. We need to respect each other. We need to be able to see that our fellow men's achievements don't negate our own. And we need to know that there is plenty of room for us all to still achieve. Can we keep going? Can we rise above our circumstances? Can we proceed? Let's move away from petty foolishness and strive for the mark of our high calling. We all have goals, dreams and desires. When you want to get things done, do it yourself. When you need to travel far, do it together. You will be better for the journey when you stop the negativity and the distractions they cause. Let's keep it moving and progress toward the level of contentment that showcases our best life. The purple life. Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

The Illusion Of Perfection

Happy Monday Everyone. How's it going thus far? Did you accomplish anything today? This weekend was filled with online conferences and event planning.  I am a forever student so I enjoy all the "free" self-help classes and workshops. Everyone is an expert that you've never heard of who spends 90 minutes explaining themselves to give you one nugget of good advice. Then, there's the $497 pitch for the next level of classes and coaching. Surprisingly, there are often some technical issues, schedule changes and questionable business practices. However, one young lady is so real and so relatable to the everyday, ordinary people. She posts her ups and downs, good days and bad days along with the hits and misses as a full time entrepreneur. Her stories are wildly funny and gripping. Recently, she posted about the problems of "being perfect".  People often talk about their desire to present a perfect product or service. She revealed that perfection is often procrastination with good intentions. Yet she decided to push the envelope, making plenty of mistakes along the way. By giving us her truth, she made me more inquisitive. She always presents receipts for the successes and accomplishments she's obtained. One example she gave stuck with me. Many classmates start at the same point in time and life. Some squirrel away their talents and never get started. Then, there are the risktakers who forge ahead into the worldwide web. They often lose money time and sleep getting the kinks out and gaps filled in. At the reunion, folks compare and contrast the personal progress versus the paralyzed in place. How many times have you frozen your progress to pursue perfection? Do you find yourself presenting an illusion of lawlessness? Filtering photos? Omitting details? Amplifying wins while deflecting losses? I always want to evaluate all options before moving forward. I don't like feeling pain or choosing the option that delivers pain. So I spent my early years being safe... secure in my world. God had bigger plans, but He waited for me to build the maturity to seek Him fully and come under His plan. He used the pains and trials of life that I went through to build me up into the vessel He could use for His divine purpose. What was your biggest mistake?  Did it work out for your good? Do you feel you learned from it?  Have you made that mistake again?  This COVID-19 pandemic has stoked the fires of dreams abandoned and visions revealed. These are the types of thoughts that I work with now, elevating my mindset. The goals always boil down to the purple life that I strive to live. No regrets. No woulda, coulda, shoulda. No complaints. The journey is far from over and more precious with every step. However, it is more joyous and forgiving as we move through this pandemic period. Join me as we travel this road called life together.  Please  share your comments below.  Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Keep going. Keep growing.

Happy Saturday Everyone. Many people go under the radar or off the grid for the weekend. This March, we are encouraged to celebrate Women's History Month. Today also reninds us to spend time pursuing our dreams. Putting that effort on during the week tends to put a strain on our limited energy. But we must keep going. I always strive to send good vibrations through my everyday actions. Coronavirus has taught us that life is too short to harbor anger, bitterness and frustration. If anything, we need to spread as much love as humanly possible. Genuine growth takes effort and a positive mental attitude. While we’re not individually responsible for others, we can play a role in choosing to grow and prosper. A person’s journey through life gives them a unique perspective on what they want to accomplish. The weekends give us a chance to refuel and redirect our energies. When we pause to refocus, our vision gets clearer. Our mission gets clearer. Working towards a goal may merely be about the quality of life. Whatever it means to you, keep going. Keep growing. Keep moving forward. Are you into home projects? Do it. Are you into telling jokes? Do it. Do you like advising others? Do it. Can you share your gift for everyone to enjoy? Do it. Are you a chef or does someone always ask you to make your special dish? Do it. Are you home alone and need to practice self care? Then do that too. Know that I wish you all well as you move through life's journey. So what did you wind up doing today? Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this  article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Be Positive

Happy Friday!!! Its the freakin' weekend and general day of joy. But have you ever encountered a "Negative Nancy"? A "Debbie Downer"? I mean someone who can suck all the joy out of any situation? Even worse, do these same folks try to rain on your parade? Just downplay every effort you make? It's truly a wonder how these people got this way and continue to exist. As someone who tries to help individuals, I run into a number of clients who've had bad breaks. Some have rehearsed their sad sob story to a pitiful perfection.  Others are grateful that they're still alive and kicking. I draw the line at those who are in relationships. Please don't tell me how horrible your partner is if you continue to stay. I don't care about your entanglements. And PLEASE don't share the emotional details of your up & down, ping pong, fire & ice, break up to make up situationship.  The old saying goes "if you like it, I love it". Some people don't want to be helped or rescued. Their misery just wants company. They feast on your energy to fill an unquenchable void in their miserably perceived world. I want to encourage you to be positive. Seek happiness. Find the silver lining. Be yourself and don't let go. Joy is a mindset. It's your life. You are the one who controls the decisions you make. You are the one who has to live with the consequences. It all falls on you about the things you do. We are on a perpetual grind to achieve success. It's time to stop and take some time to be happy. I generate my happiness and I share my love and light with all. My foundation is sure with Jesus Christ and my ceiling reaches up to heaven above. I no longer trade my beauty for the ashes of the miserable. I just pray that God blesses them and watches over them until they see the light as well. How about you? Are you positive? Is your glass half full? Or are you dying of thirst? Please share your comments below.  Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Pride: A Deeper Love

Happy Thursday Everyone. The news this week was disappointing. America is asserting its power overseas while our economy is slowly recovering. People are rejoicing at the stellar performances of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. She maintained her dignity in the face of questions that crossed party lines and symbolized political narratives. The memes are hilarious, but other photos captured a subtle nod of recognition. The loving look  between Leila Jackson and her Mom is burning up the internet. These queens support each other as a family unit, and this photo captured the essence of it all. This snapshot lasted a matter of seconds, but it goes back to common courtesy. It is customary to give a head nod or hello when you see another black person doing well. It lets the other person know that I see you and I acknowledge your existence. However, these photos captured so much more. You can feel the love, grace and respect of greeting the American public. The family has been staunch supporters during her previous confirmation processes. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is fiercely fending off foolish questions while entertaining serious inquiries. Leila seemingly elevates her Mom to her place in history, and focuses the attention back to the Supreme Court nominee. So often, social media and newscasters pit politicians against each other. These two sides expanded on that narrative before the hearings even started. However, there are legions of black women who stand tall and proud behind them. Truth be told, I'm rooting for everyone who is black. May the grace of God cover us as we move forward as a people. There's a great work to do, and black women are doing it. Not just for themselves, but for the generations to come. We've carried the burden of fixing messes we didn't create, but we do it so well that it's an expectation. This moment in time is excellence personified and extrinsic motivation. So what are you motivated to do? How did the nomination affect you? Please share your comments below.  Thanks for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

PAVE YOUR OWN PATH!

Happy Hump Day!!! Hoping your day wasn't as hectic as mine. Had several conversations with several new contacts. Overall, everyone's mood was pleasant. Learned a number of new strategies to implement info my life plan. Work - life balance is coming together. Managed to even get some motivational words from some awesome speakers. I'm a strong believer in continual learning. It's always good to learn something new. You never want to be stuck. Evolution takes the old ways out to make sure we advance as a civilization. Your new business concept could fill the niche that people don't recognize they need. Timing is everything. If you launch your business before you're ready, you could ruin your reputation. If you wait too late, that trend may pass you by. Life is a giant relay race. You must know how to change your perspective. Pave your own path. Some people will be on the same journey with you. Others will be there to support you. You may face distractions along the way. You must stay the course and keep your focus. Consistent performance will yield winning results. How is your business model working now? Are there new strategies or technologies to push you forward? What is your succession plan? How is your team prepared to face the future? Being disciplined like the athlete with coaching and mentoring will take you to the next level. Are you ready? Leave your comments below and let me know where you are. My journey is starting over but I'm pressing for the mark of the high calling.  Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

If you're tired... then go take a nap!

Happy Tuesday Everyone. What a difference a day makes. Cloudy. Rainy. Just meh. After handling a multitude of tasks, my energy was low. Have you had weeks like this? One day up and one day down? How do you course correct? One thing that has always worked for me is to take a nap. Early in my career, I worked for a company that would encourage you to take a break and lay down before sending you home sick. The blessing of sheltering in place is the ability to press pause a disconnect for a moment. Does the mere thought of a task suck out all your energy? Well oftentimes our bodies are telling us to slow down. We run the rat race to complete exhaustion and then wonder how we got this way. Labor laws were created to enforce employee rights to take a break, on vacation, etc. WHY? Because lawmakers recognize the value of rest towards creativity, longevity and performance. God even mandated the seventh day to be a day to put down what labors us and worship Him. Research has shown several benefits to napping:

-Better productivity

-Improved memory function

-Lower blood pressure

-Natural mood boost

-Better cognitive performance

I had the chance to attend several virtual services this weekend. The underlying message was to renew your faith. Keep your faith strong so you can face each day. When you start to "feel the fire", quench it with your faith. If your faith gets low, then take the time to pray. Step back and look at how far God has brought you. The words that they spoke restored my peace and comfort. The joy of napping is not only the disconnect but also the re-energized connection. Rest and respite is the key to growth. I am squarely back on the right path, reaching towards the mark of the high calling. We are on this journey together as we continue to aim towards living our best life. The purple life.  Is there any rest for the weary? Have you completely burned the wax off your candle?  Have you taken a breath? Assessed your situation? Please share your comments below.  Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Mental Health Monday

Happy Monday Everyone. It's a balmy 73 degrees here, and almost everyone is out doing something. Chicago in the springtime is a beautiful city. Often, I venture out to the lakefront or one of the many parks that are free. What I notice is how green the grass is always. It seems to stay consistent and appears to be lush in many gardens. But I know a secret that I won't share here about some of the fertilization used. What I can say is that appearance isn't everything.  People try to project an image of health, wealth and wellbeing.  Sadly, social media allows us to look at others lawns, homes, cars, clothes, lifestyles, etc and make these judgements. They long for the fame, glitz and glamour that they see. However, they wouldn't want to do the work involved to maintain the facade. So for Mental Health Monday, take a glimpse of what you may need today:

💜 It's going to be okay.

❤ You are strong enough to do this.

🧡 You won't feel this way forever.

💛 It's okay to ask for help.

💚 You are loved.

💙 You are not a burden.

It's good to check in occasionally and express your feelings. I reached out to several people and shared several laughs along the way. Music is my medicine and I spent all weekend streaming DJ sets, music videos and church choir performances.  I've taken a completely different approach to my life in particular and living in general. I'm working smarter to pursue my goals and dreams. I've nurtured so many others that I know it's now my time. My turn to accomplish great things. My turn to impact the world. My turn to do what I love and not just pay bills. Are you feeling the same? Do you want a better life? How have you aligned your priorities? Life is a journey that should be traveled together. Let's support each other as we reach our goals of living the best life. The purple life. Please  share your comments below. Thank you for reading this  article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

You Are God Strong!

Happy Sunday Everyone. It's the first day of Spring 2022. Its sunny and bright in Chicago, but I'm tired. Today's sermon talked about Gideon being exhausted but still going forth. Even during his winning season, he was exhausted from his efforts. Can you relate to this? Have you completely burned the wax off your candle? Does the mere thought of a task suck out all your energy? Well oftentimes our bodies are telling us to slow down. We run the rat race to complete exhaustion and then wonder how we got this way. Celebrities famously announce when they are taking a break, on vacation, etc. WHY? Because they recognize the value of rest towards their creativity and performance. God even mandated the seventh day to be a day to put down what labors us and worship Him. I actually took this weekend to take care of me. So I turned to social media to play my favourite songs. My favorite DJ spun a complete 2 year anniversary celebration complete with a Gospel music set. Watching churches online during the pandemic, many pastors must reach through the airwaves to parishioners. Well today, the Spirit of the Lord was present and flowing across the board.  The underlying message was "God Can". You are God strong so you can face each day. When you start to "feel the fire", quench it with your faith. If your faith gets low, then things that don't normally get to you find their way through. The words that they spoke restored a piece of my soul that I didn't recognize was lacking. My hope has been awakened and set on fire for God. My purpose in life is to spread His love throughout nations. I am squarely back on the right path, reaching towards the mark of the high calling. I am a child of God and I can only thrive in His presence. I will do His will and I will continue to walk in His ways. He has blessed us tremendously and has never left or forsaken us. We are on this journey together as we continue to aim towards living our best life. The purple life.  How far along are you on your journey? What have you overcome? Did God resolve your situation? Please share your comments below. Thank you  for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay  safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Its National Let's Laugh Day

Happy Saturday Everyone! Today is National Let's Laugh Day.  This was a tough week so I'm steeped in self care and comedy this weekend. Each year, National Let’s Laugh Day on March 19th reminds us to add a little humor to our day. It’s never good to be serious all the time. Laughter is a great escape and stress reliever. We have all heard the saying, “Laughter is the best medicine.” This is the perfect day to partake and induldge. Tickle your own funny bone. Times are definitely changing...and at a rapid pace. Do you get a chance to savor the moment? Can you recall any good experiences in your life? 2022 has had some rough patches in life's journey, but its not all bad. Comedians add levity and perspective to life events. In celebrating the day, engaging such laughter is shape shifting. It adds to your humanity and sense of balance and wellbeing.  Oftentimes, people want to display a hard facade of strength and steadfastness. In reality, we are the sum of all experiences. Good vs bad and happy vs sad. Even with the violence reported in the news, there are sympathetic stories broadcast as well. Those celebrities we love and respect have touched us with their ability. Their display of openness, availability, and vulnerability has touched us in some way. Many imitations are available but the heart knows what it is attracted to. We need to enjoy the moments of the journey while we're on the road to achieve our goals. So are you happy doing what you're doing now? Will you achieve success and joy while working towards the target? Or is it time to adjust? What do you say? Can you share a laugh today? Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and  supporting this blogspace. Stay  safe, warm, masked and healthy. 

Take Care and God Bless!!!

...

World Sleep Day

Happy Friday Everyone! Today is the day after St Patrick's Day  and a floating holiday. Its World Sleep Day😴😴😴 World Sleep Day is an annual event, intended to be a celebration of sleep and a call to action on important issues related to sleep, including medicine, education, social aspects and driving. It is organized by the World Sleep Day Committee of World Sleep Society and aims to lessen the burden of sleep problems on society through better prevention and management of sleep disorders. World Sleep Day is held the Friday before Spring Vernal Equinox of each year. The slogan for 2022 is Quality Sleep, Sound Mind, Happy World. According to the website

worldsleepday.org, "sleep is a foundational pillar of health, and the quality of your sleep can impact not just your physical energy in the morning but your mental and emotional health, too." How tired are you? It's that time of the year again..... Spring Forward. I hate losing that extra hour of sleep but enjoy the increased sunshine. I use this time to try and replenish and reflect on the sleep loss. What have you done this week? How has the pandemic affected your sleep patterns? Are you energized or exhausted?  I mean have you ever overdone it? Burned the candle at both ends? Have you dragged yourself into bed but couldn't rest? Why do we keep doing this to ourselves? Wouldn't the world be a better place if we just took a nap? For me, peaceful sleep is elusive. Caffeine mixed with side hustles occupy my mind and make it difficult to lay it all down. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are six things we can do to get better sleep:

1. Stick to a sleep schedule. Set aside no more than eight hours for sleep.
2. Pay attention to what you eat and drink. Don't go to bed hungry or stuffed.
3. Create a restful environment. Create a room that's ideal for sleeping.
4. Limit daytime naps.
5. Include physical activity in your daily routine.
6. Manage worries.

Imagine setting our minds free to be with no hang ups or setbacks. No cares. No responsibilities.  Just living our lives the way we want. Think about this....why do we strain our brain? Often people play on the relationship of doing it all at the sacrifice of bodily rest.* Sometimes it works, but usually it's a recipe for burnout and disaster. Well, I've put folks on notice... I'm making my health my priority! Life is too short, and I'm working on me. There's only so much one person can do. And we need to focus that energy on our goals and dreams.  I've got other things to accomplish. And you do too. How many times have you put your dreams on the backburner because you're mentally and physically drained? You must help yourself before trying to help someone else. Do you like practicing wellness principles? Do you want your time maximized and balanced? Do you want to shake the chains that are binding you? Join me on this journey as we make better choices to lead our best lives. The purple life. Let me know what you think. Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Leave The Door Open To Your Future

Happy Friday Eve Everyone. Its St Patrick's Day and it's been a relatively quiet day. The news was dominated by a free gas giveaway in Chicago. Dr Willie Wilson paid $200K of his own money to fill gas tanks. Traffic jams, volunteer errors and disorganization plagued his efforts. But he's not stopping. Dr Wilson plans to do it again on 3/31. Additionally, he will expand from 10 to 25 stations in the city & suburbs. Have you ever had to scrap an entire project? I mean completely throw away the efforts you made and start all over again? Has the money or resources run out before completion? Did you win money on Shark Tank and blow it on your launch party (that actually happened)? Has your body shut down involuntarily so you couldn't move or honor appearance commitments (✋🏽✋🏽✋🏽)? Were there extenuating circumstances beyond your control? COVID-19 has taught us to shift quickly. Pivoting your set of skills to the latest trends has become a tangible skill and profitable option. The number of businesses that are making changes have splashed all over the internet. Bloggers are creating content around at home remedies for shuttered non-essential businesses that permeated our lives. The world is an upside down ball of confusion. How are you dealing with that? Are you working or looking for work? Are you a business owner or a hustler? Are you single or do you have families you're responsible for?This is when you must leave the door open to the future. You must have ways to keep yourself encouraged. First, take responsibility for any missed opportunities. Analyze each situation. Where were the errors and omissions? What corrections can be made? Mistakes are learning lessons and process testers. Glean what you can and monitor closely. Second, remember there are many ways to solve problems and provide services. We can become so attached to a single desired outcome that we feel lost and devastated when we don’t get that one result. If there is only one way to succeed, then disappointment will inevitably loom. Focus instead on the process: Everyone has a cross to bear. We must navigate these land mines with skill, patience and grace. It's tough sometimes but we must hang on. Hang on to our hopes. Hang on to our dreams. Hang on to the promises of God that He will never leave us or forsake us. So many passages of scripture talk about faith, hope and strength. Now we must apply these principles for our lives. What are you seeing in your future? Is it a good look where you are? What is your focus now? Are you yet holding on to your past? Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Make Your Own Way

Happy Hump Day. How did you make it over today? The weather is trying to cooperate even though the politicians are not. The job market is in an uproar as the economy cant keep up with the I inflation or the Great Resignation. How are businesses respondiing? Reorganization. Right sizing. Restructuring. So many jobs are using these terms to rearrange their resources to fit ever changing trends. Does the thought of change make you cringe? Or do you get excited? Working from was once a luxury option for executives. Now it's a safety measure for non essential workers. As we implement these sheltered work environments,  succession plans must evolve as well. Some people like to follow a path. Others like to blaze a trail. Either way, you must prepare for the inevitable. People like to have a Plan B, C, D, etc. But what if Plan A was the only option? What about that book burning inside you? You have a story to tell and a world to listen. How about that invention? The "crazy" idea you have? The idea that can make you millions and change your trajectory in life? What if you had a Crystal Ball that told you everything will work out? Would you move forward? So many millionaires and billionaires started from humble beginnings... but they had a dream. They have passion. And perseverance. These people believed and worked to make it happen. Can you make your own way? Follow your mind? Employ a "can do" attitude? If you don't work on your dream, someone else will have you build theirs. As the pandemic has shown us, there is no specific path you must follow. Make your way through unchartered territory and blaze a trail. You'll reap the rewards in the end. So what are you prepared to do? Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this  article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Coronavirus Shutdown 2022: Two Years In Quarantine

Happy Tuesday? March 15, 2020 is when the city of Chicago shut down completely. Only essential workers were allowed to be on the streets, especially at night. This was thought to be a temporary measure while we grappled with this disease. Two years later, we are battling variants, waves of infections, masks and mandates along with policy changes and debates. So when was your COVID anniversary? The Mayor held a press conference marking the two years here that the city completely locked down. Our numbers have gotten better, but we are still battling COVID-19. I recall that this was the day they discovered a black woman was the first victim of getting COVID and subsequently dying in this plague. My job heard rumors of the shutdown so they started preparing everyone for working from home. Literally, my last day working in the office was on March 12, 2020. I remember that firmly because I had always hated commuting. I welcomed this refreshing change and the opportunity to work from home. What I will say is these couple of years have permanently changed my life. Can you imagine thinking that it would take this long? The former administration kept saying that this would blow over in a couple weeks. Here we are TWO YEARS later and we're still dealing with this pandemic. The vaccines and boosters are here and saving lives. If the US had more cooperation with the medical and scientific community back then, the technology could have come months earlier. I shutter to think of the lives lost, but I'm grateful to still be here. Most of our international partners found this out months ago, and are fighting more variants currently. That fact brings me to this point..... what would you do differently? The length of this lockdown has cleared so much space and stripped us to our core. Sheltering in place has flipped our economy upside down and realigned our values. Being quarantined has really given me some clear revelations as far as my goals and dreams. You need to have that creativity. You need to have that ingenuity. You need to find your niche. You need to find your tribe.  Someone out there is looking for what you have and you haven't put it out there yet. They're looking for you. They're wanting you. They're waiting for you. The list of possibilities is endless. So many people have pivoted from brick and mortar to online services. So there's really no limit to what you can do other than the limits that you put on yourself. Do you have limiting mindsets? Do you have someone who is spreading negativity on your dreams? Do you have the proper support system to carry your dreams into reality? Do you have someone who has a different viewpoint than you, who can add diversity to the ideas that you're making? Do you have a dream that you really willing to die trying for? Or a dream that you're willing to live for? Are you living your best life now? Or could things be better? There are so many questions that you can answer. And if you're having trouble answering them, there are advocates and support services available. Ponder these things.  We all need to travel together on this thing called life.... this purple life. Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and  healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Exceed Your Expectations

Happy Monday Everyone. How did your day go? Did you accomplish anything? Everyone has an idea of how they want to live. Often, we spend that time achieving our heart's desires. Sometimes, we get off course or distracted by tough situations. We put our dreams on the backburner while fulfilling obligations. The good news is that we're still alive!!! As long as there's breath in your body, you can change. What are you doing with your life? Are you happy doing it? Or is it a daily struggle? In sales, we have goals to meet and service levels to maintain. In life, it's much the same. I work with clients who need help with their life and health options. Day in and day out I hear many things. I try to glean as many pearls of wisdom they give. Mostly, I listen to their mistakes and attempt to find solutions. The most important thing they've taught me is to live life to the fullest. Take advantage of the moment. Do what needs to be done to make your dreams come true. As I watched an online event, I saw vibrance. I saw energy. We reminisced while looking forward to the future. The event organizers inspired families to join in the festivities while encouraging members to remain vigilant. I pass this encouragement on to you. I'll be  off work in April, so I'll be using that time wisely. Take the time to set your expectations... and then exceed them. Reflect on your progress and regroup as needed. Keeping your focus for a few months can put you years ahead in the game of life. How do you plan to survive post COVID-19? Where will you be in six months? Next year? Five years from now? If you have issues answering these questions, consult with an advisor to sort things out. No matter what, don't give up. Keep P.U.S.H.ING!!! Press towards the mark of the high calling. Find your purpose and expound upon it. Dare to dream again. It's not too late. You're not alone. The future awaits you. Show the world what you're meant to do. So, what are you doing with your life from this point forward? Please share your comments below.  Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Be Authentic

Happy Sunday Everyone. Now that we've sprung forward, how are you feeling? Having the extra sunshine was a mood booster and spirit lifter. I took the time to clear my social media from scammers. I mean these impersonators pretend to be anyone trying to get your time, attention and money. Even TD Jake's said that they tend off hundreds of fake profiles weekly. 

It was tiring but a necessary reminder about authenticity. Who do we pretend to be? What is the public persona vs the at home individual? Do you code switch? Do you change your voice based on who you're speaking to? How many filters do you use on your photos? How recent are your profile pics? Let's face it. There are roles we play everyday, but how close is that to the real you? Interviewers always ask this question of character actors. There is always the search for truth and knowledge.  Often, people suffer from Imposter Syndrome when stretching beyond the norm. Criminals always look over their shoulder to see when they'll get caught. So why stress? Why worry? Why not try being your authentic self? The world needs more individuals, not herds or clusters. Shine in your own way. Be different. Be unique. Do you. Nobody can be you but you.  So be the best you that you can be. Are you ready to live authentically? Can you be in the moment with yourself?  Does living your truth excite you? Or frighten you? Please share your comments below.  Thank you for reading this article and  supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

international Womens Day 2022: Break The Bias

Happy Tuesday Everyone. Its International Womens Day. The theme for Womens History Month 2022 is "Break The Bias". Ceremonies were filled with history and nostalgia. The overriding theme was hope for the future. There were so many moments across social media with so many gems dropped. It was a break for eyes sore from news of wars, corporate pillaging, sanctions, convicted insurrectionists, overt racism, and discrimination based policies passed. These ceremonies were diverse and inclusive. COVID-19  has trained us to shelter in place and participate virtually. We each have our place in changing history. We are witnesding the abuse of power up close and personal. Political rifts from the past, present and future add to the urgent actions of this mission. Many organizations projected the imagery of strength, unity, and dignity of womens rights and issues. So often, reality tv, social media,and newscasters try to pit women against each other. We need to quash that narrative before it even starts. And there are legions of black women who stand tall and proud behind their struggle for equality. Truth be told, I'm rooting for everyone who is black. May the grace of God cover us as we move forward as a people. There's a great work to do, and sisters are doing it for themselves. We've carried the burden of fixing messes we didn't create, but we do it so well that it's an expectation.  This moment in time is determination personified and extrinsic motivation. So what are you motivated to do? Historically, women made sure that they leaned in to the political fray and persevered. They fought the good fight and cleared the path for future leaders to follow. The inspiration these legendary  ladies generated for little girls and boys will impact our future. It is up to our generation to band together and move this country forward. The work begins NOW. What are you prepared to do? How did this day affect you? 

Please share your comments below. Thanks for reading this  article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Fix Your Thinking

Happy Monday Everyone. Its Pulaski Day in Chicago so many local city and county offices were closed. Wacky weather brought many to a standstill here, making for a relatively calm day. Watching the news with stories of resilience in Ukraine. Ex-pats are leaving the US to join the resistance. Women are tending to the wounded and the orphaned in bomb shelters and marked civilian buildings. Their makeshift supplies are homemade due to necessity. How handy are you? Would you be able to survive in a conflicted environment? Once I tried my hand at sewing a hole in my purse. Sure I could just drop it off to the repair shop, but I just knew I could fix it. Well I got halfway and the needle cut through the thread. I'm proud of what I did, but I need to do more. Have you done something similar? Started a project but met with difficulties? Tweaking your plans due to a mishap? Apologies to someone even when they were wrong? We often think of mending as repairing something broken or damaged. It also means to heal or return to health. How's your health in 2022? Have you broken your bad habits yet? Have you fixed your way of thinking? I'm still working on the renewing of my mind. Making room for the new memories by releasing the old. Allowing people to figure it out while releasing the urge to rescue them has been a needed shift in energy. Oftentimes, the clarity brings about the solutions for their problems. These little victories add up to bigger things in this game called life. Mistakes are learning opportunities from which we grow. Lean in. Jump. Level up.  Make moves. Do what you need to do to heal yourself and become your best self. Take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey. What is on your path today?  What do you think about that? Please share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay  safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Healthcare Equals Self-Care

Happy Sunday Everyone. How is your health doing? 2020 was a year of recognition. 2021 was a year of correction. 2022 will be the year of progression. There have been several virtual healthcare events for Womens History Month. Fortunately, women are starting to speak up for their rights to research, treatment and representation. How am I so sure about this? Let me reintroduce myself. Hello. My name is Monica, and I'm a diabetic. In 2020, I experienced the most common yet most shocking health scare in my life. I was hospitalized during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, but I didn't have coronavirus. My blood sugar tested so high that I was kept for 3 days. I was at a loss for words as I was tested for any and all possible causes for my symptoms. I felt safe to go home, but changes had to be made. Why am I blogging about this? Because I felt nothing leading up to this episode. I blamed my tiredness on lack of sleep and pour my energy from cups of tea. If my sister hadn't convinced me to go to the ER, I shutter to think what may have happened. I have been a diabetic for over 20 years,  and I thought I knew my body. WRONG!!! I'm on the right path as I intend to keep strong and get healthy. I use my story as a warning to you. Women must continue to make strides in their healthcare. We must put our self care as a top priority. We cannot allow lawmakers create policies that are counterintuitive to the science and technology available. Women comprise more that half of the US, and we can make our own health decisions. Providing the information to make intelligent choices will open our society up to mental, physical and spiritual wellness. Do you feel out of sorts? Are you stressed out? Overeating? Numb? Avoiding ugly situations? Biting your tongue? Holding it all in? Putting on a brave face while quietly dealing with your issues? Educate yourself and lend your support with national entities. As I researched my condition, I came across the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org. I suggest going to WebMD and other online resources to find the right path for you. I ask you to advocate for yourself until you come out with your desired healthcare results.  Join me on my journey back from the brink.... and change some policies along the way. Let's keep moving toward living the best life. The purple life. Please  share your comments below. Thank you for reading this article and  supporting this blogspace. Stay  safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

YES WOMEN CAN!!!!!

Happy Saturday Everyone. Its 70 degrees in Chicago, and I'm worried. Why? Climate change. Rampant shootings. Wars and Russian aggressions. Have you ever had one of those days? I mean hit the wall kind of days? Well this one was by far the one for me. I've been sheltering in place for nearly two years. Watching too much news and what we are doing to each other. Killings in Chicago are on the rise, including a 12 year old shot on her birthday. Chiraq.is living up to this ugly nickname, and surpassing all considerable limits. Civii unrest is gripping the country in the wake of continued killings of Black and Brown people. The need to stop Asian hate has popped up across the nation. Social justice is elusive to most but swift to expose racism, sexism, and classism. Even in war torn Ukraine, African refugees and American citizens are facing segregated obstacles in fleeing this "conflict". Politicians are angling targeted debates and legal wranglings over the rights and wrongs of US policies. This self righteous grandstanding is reaching a frenzied pitch. Each side pointing fingers at the other. Our conversations are very guarded and sometimes filled with hatred. There's evidence of voter suppression laws sweeping across many red states. Its overwhelming. Are you fed up? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? We can't afford to go back that far. We can't afford to continue carrying this bitterness and vitriol. We as a nation must come to the table and talk to each other. Contemplate and negotiate. We must stand up for our virtues and values as an industrialized society. Our lives hang in the balance and we need to secure our futures. Ladies, we need to step up to the plate on this. Women in Ukraine are birthing babies in war bunkers, sleeping in subways and working as makeshift rescuers of their wounded warriors. Many grassroot organizations are taking our leaders to task. Get involved. Find a cause you believe in. If we can tout herd immunity, we can march to the polls for a healed community. I don't believe I have joined up with others who are using our shared Christian values to implement lasting changes. I feel safe in saying that you are concerned as well. So let's join forces and create our narrative and purpose. We only want to live up to this country's decree of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We must strive and move forward on our goal to live the good life. The purple life. What are you prepared to do? Can you volunteer? Can you contribute? Can you spread the word? Or are you paralyzed by fear, apathy and unbelief? Please share your comments below. Thank you for sharing your journey with me. Your support of this blog space is greatly appreciated. Please stay safe, warm, masked and healthy.Take Care and God Bless!!!

Womens History Month 2022: Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson

Happy Friday Everyone. So it's the firstt full week of Women's History Month 2022. Ever since the start of the pandemic, celebrating holidays are virtual gatherings of limited space but powerful influence. What I love is the fact that so many news stories are focusing on the individual change agents and their impact in their community. In this series of blog posts, I have focused on power players who are blazing a path for others. Since she will potentially be the first African American woman on the Supreme Court, let's highlight Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. This 51 year old black woman took the world by storm as the nominee by President Joe Biden to fill the seat of Judge Breyer. This History Maker stepped onto the world stage and rocked it to its core. Her nomination was a campaign promise fulfilled, and she went through the confirmation process with bipartisan support in 2021. She will work to bring equity and levity to our country and heal the land through the Justice system. Her performanceas a Public Defender and on the DC Circuit Court will add to the legendary accomplishments that Judge Jackson has amassed. The fact that she was racially profiled in her residential neighborhood fueled her passion for justice, equality, and social reform. God's timing is perfect. He knew what He blessed this young woman with, and He moved on her behalf. Each generation looks to the next to carry the baton for the next leg of the human race. When looking at extraordinary creatives like Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, our future feels secure. As a Harvard graduate, she has definitely built a foundation from which to grow. I look forward to her platform to be defined, and she can count on my support when the confirmation process is complete. We can look to her example and encourage the dreams of young people everywhere. God creates connections to do His divine will. As we move along life's journey, we must find inspiration where we can. We must also be the inspiration for those who knowingly or unknowingly follow in our footsteps. There are so many moments from this nomination that sparked inspiration for me. It twill take several weeks to review her credentials and officially place her in the Supreme Court. Are you inspired? Which moments inspired you? What do you recall from this history making event? Please share your comments below. Thanks for reading this article and supporting this blog space. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy.  Take Care and God Bless!!!

Womens History Month 2022: Forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama

Happy Thursday Everyone. Its March 3, 2022 and I Want To See You Happy Day. Womens History Month has just begun, but I would be remiss if I didn't write about one of my idols. Mrs. Obama was the Former First Lady of the US, and the first African American woman to do so. She has absolutely set the bar high for first ladies to come as well as ladies, mothers, single women, young girls, anyone who is looking to achieve a goal, to realize their dreams and to go beyond what we could have ever imagined. Mrs. Obama has always been a pillar of strength in the community. She has always backed her husband, 44th President Obama, and she has always used her law degree to advise businesses. Mrs. Obama helps to maintain who they are, provide sound legal advice, and to help strategize to get towards the future Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Mrs. Obama had her opinions in the White House and she speaks to issues on women's rights. She has continued that legacy helping with relief efforts in the Ukraine. After leaving the White House, she wrote her autobiography "I Am Becoming". There is no floor that she cannot cover. She has progressed and moved beyond any limit, any imagination, and beyond anyone who could criticize her.  Although the critics have tried, they have failed because her success screams louder than any words she could ever say. She has served as a role model. She has served as a pillar of strength. She has served as our American Royalty. She has the elegance of the Queen's and the blessings of the Ancients. She has the ancestry of our strong black heritage, and she has the foresight, as a fierce mother who's protecting her babies, and the babies, of the world. I can't say enough about Mrs. Obama. I can't say enough about her successes. I can't say enough about this graceful woman who has embodied the epitome of what it is to be a woman of the 21st century. I only hope that someday we can all step in those footsteps and go beyond the scale. Go beyond the veil, go beyond what we ever imagined to be what ever it is that we want to be. So I just leave the question for you. What do you want to be? What are you inspired to become? What is your goal, your dream, your desired outcome? Do you have any plans for the future? What is your ambition, and how does it feel to you today? Has this Women's History Month imparted anything in you to spark you to move forward? Please share your comments below.  Thank you for reading this article and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy.  Take Care and God Bless!!!

Women's History Month 2022: Vice President Kamala Harris

Happy Wednesday Everyone! It's the first day of Lent,and the day after the State of the Union Address. I can appreciate the efforts put forth by both sides. Only the future will reveal the effectiveness of the promised initiatives. My focus was on the two women behind the President. Specifically, Madame Vice President. First of her kind...but she won't be the last. Ms Kamala Harris is our first African American, South Pacific woman Vice President. She has made her career in politics and cemented her place in history. And there are legions of black women who stand tall and proud behind them. Truth be told, I'm rooting for everyone who is black. May the grace of God cover us as we move forward as a people. There's a great work to do, and she is getting it done. Black people have carried the burden of fixing messes we didn't create, but we do it so well that it's an expectation. Her moment in time is excellence personified, extrinsic motivation and glass ceilings shattering. The Address were filled with history and nostalgia. The overriding theme was hope for the future. There were so many moments with so many gems dropped. The audience was diverse and inclusive. Kamala's prescence was both powerful and serene.. She stood out as an individual in the massive crowd. As the first woman to hold this powerful role, she sent a clear message that she was prepared and ready to serve our nation in this capacity.. COVID-19 has trained us to shelter in place and participate virtually. We each have our place in history. We witnessed the position of power to a proud Black AAPI woman. She projected the imagery of strength, unity, and dignity. I cried. I laughed. I leaned in. And I observed. While the world is crumbling around us, the overwhelming message was the unification of the United States of America. Are you impressed with her performance thus far? Have you reviewed the role of Vice President? What has this motivated you to do? Please share your comments below.  Thanks for reading this  article  and supporting this blogspace. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!

Womens History Month 2022: First Lady Dr Jill Biden

Happy Tuesday Everyone! Happy Mardi Gras! Happy Carnival! So we're coming to the end of Black History Month and starting Women's History Month. This week has been one of the craziest weeks that has gone down. Russia's invasion has exposed man's inhumanity to man as far as racial, refugee,  economic and political lines.  2021 was one thing but 2022 is shaping up to be that much more. I was able to view a portion of the White House's BHM Celebration through Club Quarantine. I was impressed by the coordination and cooperation of all involved. In particular, I wanted to talk about our First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. Dr. Jill Biden is the first First Lady to have a doctorate degree. I found it very interesting that before Joe could even take the oath as President of the United States, people felt Dr. Biden should not use the doctor in her name. That she should just state that she's the wife of the president, and that she should not try to outshine those around her. I found her to be most genuine and endearing to her husband and to the country. They tried to reduce her grand personality, down to one strand as a wife, giving no consideration to what she contributes to this world, her husband, her family. As her husband is preparing for his State Of The Union Address, she helped to host this and other special events. They're not talking about her in the news. As a matter of fact, they've said nothing about the work that she's doing. Even though she has been an educator, even though she started her foundation, even though she supports her husband every step of the way. There's not much written about Jill. Dr. Biden. One of the things that I do appreciate is the fact that she has not cowered down. She has not folded her tent. She did not succumb to public opinion. Even though this is a rough start to their presidency. I do believe that she is ready, willing and able to help him leave an impact on our nation.  Dr Biden is a strong proud woman, Catholic, supportive of her husband, and supportive of our country. This is so short sighted because of the many accomplishments that she made, as the Second Lady of the United States, under President Barack Obama. I'm looking forward to seeing what she does in the future. I'm looking forward to see how our country turns this around. I applaud Dr. Jill Biden, for taking her role in stride. Although she is not featured in the news, I know that she is prominently in the background. I want to hear from you. What are your thoughts? What is the role of a First Lady?  Do you care about the nature of this country? Do you care about the direction that we're heading? Do you care that Dr. Jill Biden is an educator, who is partnering with her husband, to help clean up the nation? Please share your thoughts below. Thank you for supporting this blog space and reading this article. Stay safe, warm, masked and healthy. Take Care and God Bless!!!